EVERYTHING GIGL

Fun Survey...The A, B, C's of Me!

2011-10-05T12:51:00.004-05:00

Here are the random A, B, C's of me. Feel free to laugh along.... especially with the X question!! Oh, and Happy Fall y'all!!!

A. Age: 29. Turning 30 in two weeks....gasp!

B. Bed size: Queen
C. Chore that you hate: Putting clean laundry away. Despise.
D. Dogs: None. Will own an all white golden retriever again one day. Yes they do exist. I grew up with one until I was 15.
E. Essential start to your day: The snooze button!
F. Favorite color: Pink!
G. Gold or Silver: White gold! The perfect mix of both! :)
H. Height: 5' 2" and a half. Yes, the half is important!
I. Instruments you play: None. Does my voice count though?! It is an instrument after all!
J. Job title: I work at Golfsmith come and visit me!
K. Kids: None. Can't wait to have some of my own one day. But now I will settle for "Aunt" to my sister and friends babies/kiddos!
L. Live: Proud to be a Texan
M. Mother’s name: Emily Lou
N. Nicknames: joyful, joyous, joy-joy, shorty, Miss GiGL (yes, it sticks)

O. Overnight hospital stays: twice when I was little. Once for climbing on the counter and eating a bottle of children's Tylenol because I thought it was candy. (whoops!) and for running a 105 fever for four days straight. I was in quarantine because they couldn't figure out what was wrong with me. I still have such vivid memories of that hospital stay and I was only 5 years old. Including that the Doctor would give me a shot every. single. day. & that the nurse read me my rainbow bright book.
P. Pet peeves: smacking!
Q. Quote from a movie: Not real sure.
R. Right or left handed: right. Only person in my immediate family--the rest are lefties!
S. Siblings: Twin sister Jan (2 min. older) Big sis Kim, Bro-in-law Brennon
T. Truth or Dare: truth. A little bit of a chicken
U. Ultimate Vacation: This is a hard one so I'll keep it in the good 'ole USA: I really want to go to Charleston, & Sea Island.
V. Vegetable you hate: Brussel Sprouts
W. What makes you run late: My snooze button
X. X-Rays you’ve had: A lot. Let's see. Wrist in college, hip in college. (flew into the wave runner. Oh. My.) Shoulder (multiple times) Ankle for a split tendon. (It's an ongoing thing prob at least 6 times--no lie!) Ankle again. Yes, I missed a step because I was texting and walking. You can just all me grace.
Y. Yummy food that you make: Pioneer Woman's best chocolate sheet cake ever!
Z. Zoo animal: Giraffe!

Interruptions...

2011-09-16T12:23:00.002-05:00

So I haven't really blogged in what seems like forever. Most likely because it has been. I've tried to but I just wasn't ready to share my thoughts for everyone to read. Yes, I've been learning a lot about pride lately! You see, this past year has been one of the hardest I've ever been through. I've been in the desert for what seems like forever. And I'm going to be honest. I would love to say I've been using the majority of this time for my good by asking The Lord to show me what it is in my heart that He has wanted to change but sadly I've spent most of it throwing a fit like a Preschooler. Wanting to figure out "the why" Why did The Lord allow the past events in my life to take place and why did they have to end the way they did. Looking back now I realize that I really was being as stubborn as the people in my life who love me were telling me I was being. Until I got slapped up side the head by a sermon I heard on Sunday.

This past Sunday I visited a new church that was opening it's doors for the first time. It's name is Bayou City Fellowship. When Curtis the pastor started preaching I was absolutely floured! You know those sermons? The kind that you feel as if the pastor had been reading your journal? That the message was for you and you alone? That was me Sunday. Seriously y'all! When he started with the word Interruption I knew I had better buckle up and hold on. He said some very specific points that really struck a chord with my heart and that The Lord really used to speak directly to me. That lead me to the conclusion that this past year I have been fighting my interruptions instead of living open to and embracing them. I haven't been asking Jesus to show me the impossible in it but have been closing my heart off to what He was trying to do in my life. Oh my stars I can't imagine how frustrated He was with me & I've spent some time seeking some major forgiveness. I don't know why but on Sunday it clicked. I've been looking at my interruption with wrong eyes. The eyes of a person that veiwed it as a bad thing. That I wasn't good enough. Struggling to figure out what I could have done differently. How I could have changed things. Wanting all of the answers right then and now. And so many more lies straight from the pit of hell. Sunday I found myself throwing up my hands in surrender. Surrendering all that I had been holding onto and had been trying to figure out. Sunday was the first time I was thankful for my interruptions. Thankful it brought me to Bayou City Fellowship to hear the word The Lord had for me that day. It was the first time in a long time I had had a thankful heart & that in itself is something to be thankful for!

Versatile Blog Award...

2011-05-05T15:51:00.011-05:00

My sweet friend Blair awarded me with the Versatile Blog award to try to coax me out of my Blog slump! To be honest, I have missed blogging but every time I've tried to jump back on the bandwagon something has stopped me from doing it. Blair and I met in a Bible Study that was had in my opinion some of the greatest girls you can find in Houston, Texas! We had an amazing time digging into the word each week and growing sweet friendships that will always have a special place in my heart. You will love reading all about Blair's perspecitve of being a wife of a profesional Baseball player! She is an incredible writter so start following her!

The rules that come with getting the award:

1. Thank and link to the person who awarded you

2. Share 7 facts about yourself

3. Pass on the award to 7 new-found blog friends

4. Let your friends know they were awarded!

Most of my friends have received this award so I'm just going to stick with seven random facts about me--hope y'all enjoy!

1. I am obsessed with Twitter. I love to keep up to date with friends, Pastors, sports, entertainment, & so much more. I mean hello! This gives me a quick glimpse into the lives of people I will never meet. Yes, I am a social media junkie!

2. I just finished reading Something Borrowed and can not wait to see the movie when it comes out tomorrow!

3. My Dad's pub inside of The Dunvegan Hotel was just named one of the best 19Th Holes in all of golf by golf.com! I am so proud of him and that it ranks up there with Pebble Beach!

4. Ever since I first saw Annie at the age of four in London I have dreamed of performing on this stage!

5. However, I have had the privilege to perform on the world famous stage of Carnegie Hall three times in my life!

6. After a pretty comical blind date I was urged by a friend to start 27 Dresses in Texas. It's supposed to be a way for y'all to laugh with me through the experience of finding "Mr. Right" Although, like this blog it has been majorly neglected. I plan on writing more so stay tuned for lots of laughs!

7. I dream of owning a pair of these one day. However, I think I'd be too afraid to scuff the red bottom of the shoe!

Don't Quit

2011-01-18T09:14:00.002-06:00

I read this devotional this morning and just wanted to share. It also reminded me of a blog I wrote a few years back so I thought that was neat! This really encouraged me and I hope it does you too!

Don’t Quit

Tags: Courage, Everyday Faith, Making a Difference

The sweat. The fall. The doubt. The belief. The sunrise. The trail. The pain. The end.

The sun was calling over the mountains like a siren to sailor’s death. The mountain called. I responded. Step by step, minute by minute, mile by mile, I endured the hill. Half way up the trail, I lost my footing and slipped down onto jagged rocks, cutting my hand and shin. I debated quitting. I mean, I had already completed a good amount of trail. What would it matter if I continued? Who would know? Who would care?

But I couldn’t quit.

I was surrounded by trees; their limbs were like semaphores swaying encouragement. I had to get to the top. I limped my way to the crest of the peak and my breath was taken away. I saw the entire trail, the sunrise, the doubtful cliffs, the believing trees, and I rested in the beauty.

I had a moment with the Creator and saw Life. Sometimes I’ve asked myself, What would it matter if I continued my walk of faith in a Divine Creator? Would would know if I quit? Who would care? But as I stood at the peak of the hill I endured and saw the difficult path I emerged from, I realized the end is worth the fall, the doubt, the pain. Press on, fight the good fight of faith (1 Timothy 6:12), for He shows loving kindness to those who walk before Him with all their heart (2 Chronicles 6:14).

Have you asked if it would matter if you quit? It does. Don’t give up. The view is beautiful from the top.

By Bianca, In The Name of Love and Compassion’s Team San Diego [for more info on joining a running revolution, click here]

Really, Really Big Christmas Show!!

2010-12-20T21:43:00.004-06:00

I got to be apart of the cast of the Really, Really Big Christmas Show at Second Baptist Church Houston! It was so much fun & I had an absolute blast! The best part was that I got to do it with some of my best friends! This was such a neat way to share the birth of our precious savior Jesus Christ with the thousands of people who walked into the doors of the church! Here are some fun pictures from the weekend!

Full...

2010-11-17T22:24:00.004-06:00

Tonight I am full. Full of good food and of sweet fellowship...both are so good for the soul! :) Last month my old small group started a new tradition of a monthly dinner. We had our second one tonight and oh my stars let me just tell y'all...both times have been so sweet! This particular group of women are some of the most genuine, wise, & most importanly Godly women I know.

These past four years we have laughed together, cried together, entered into new seasons together, but most importantly grown more in love with our sweet Jesus together. It was so refreshing to just sit around Jacky's livivng room tonight & just be real and share our hearts. I think that authenticity is such a rare treasure to find & I cherish it so much with this group.

So tonight I did. I just wanted to share with y'all how thankful I am for these precious girls..I am so blessed by their friendships and love! (Blair you were missed and prayed for!)

"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God" 1 John 4:7

Seasons...

2010-11-14T23:04:00.006-06:00

All of my life in every season I have a reason to sing, I have a reason to worship....

Seasons. They are different for everyone. Right now I am in a season of waiting and change. Feeling that The Lord was leading me to resign from my old job and waiting to see what He has next. I know that He works for the good of those who love Him but I have to be honest.... right now in my life I am in a place of complete and utter confusion.

Not knowing what is next is a scary place to be, but praise The Lord I can rest in the sweet promise that we are told not to worry about tomorrow & that He knows what's next. Right now I am walking in complete and utter blind faith. I'm going to be honest though--that's not such a bad place to be. My faith is all I have to cling to & right now it is growing like it never has before. With all of my heart I want to be the girl who glorifies my sweet Jesus during the seasons of waiting & change. The girl who doesn't loose heart. The girl who shows Jesus in not only the good seasons but also the tough ones. Do I fall short? Every single day. But that is what I believe causes us to seek shelter under His wings, & to run fast and hard after Him.

Here is what I can tell you....I loved my previous job and know without a doubt that I was great at it--however, I had become very comfortable and complacent. I know I've said this on here before I also hate change. On the other hand, I know change is what causes us to grow and learn. So I am, as hard as it is for me I'm choosing to embrace this change & learn all that I can from it. Last weekend I went to listen to Steven Furtick preach at a near by church and he said something that really struck a chord with me....that if the the vision for my life is small then that is most likely insulting to God & that the vision for my life should be intimidating and huge--I started praying for a bigger vision.

So today I'm thankful that this is just a season. That today is not a blank page & He can see the whole storyt. But most of all that He knows my heart better than I do & is working for the good in me & all I have to do is step.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him. Who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

*I would also covet your prayers during this season--thanks so much!*

Pure Sweetness!

2010-10-12T12:37:00.003-05:00

Last week I helped out my dear friend Jenny with her sweet kiddos. They were moving into a new house and Jeff was out of town so with three little ones a set of extra hands was much appreciated. I haven't been sleeping that well during the night so I've been quiet tired during the day. One day sweet Kate fell asleep on the couch & as you can tell I wasn't that far behind her! Her Mom captured this sweet photo--sorry it's poor quality she took it on my phone! To me it doesn't get much sweeter than this! I love this sweet family and cherish the precious relationship I have with them!

2010 Ryder Cup...

2010-09-29T12:17:00.002-05:00

I'm sure you can tell from my blog that it's no secret--I love the sport of golf. Growing up in Scotland & your Dad owning one of the most popular hotels in St. Andrews, Scotland where the sport began it's hard not to. The sport has always been apart of my life but after attending the 2010 British Open & having the privilege to meet and visit with some of the sports best players & people in the industry it has caused my love to grow. You may not understand but now I feel apart of it's world & love the people in it. I do. I love the game. This week is the 2010 Ryder Cup in Wales an event like no other in golf. I know that the defending champions team USA are HUGE underdogs but I think that's what will make it so exciting!

Team USA!

Team Europe

Had to put in a picture of Dustin...can you say school girl crush--I met him in St. Andrews during The Open! :)

Currently Reading....

2010-09-28T22:29:00.007-05:00

Steven Furtick's new book Sun Stand Still. I'm just getting into it but am so excited to dig into this book! It about having audacious faith and praying Sun Stand Still prayers like Joshua did! I could not be reading this book or listening to his podcasts on the book at a more perfect season of my life right now.

When I think of audacious faith several people from the Bible come to mind. . People like Noah. He had faith to build a boat. Why? Because God told him to. Esther. Oh sweet Esther. She had faith to approach the King with boldness, Peter, well he walked on water. I also think of Joshua....how he marched around the walls of Jericho. Blew the horn. And the walls came a tumblin' down.

I realize to do this some of my dreams may have to die in order for Him to reveal His dreams to me. My question to myself is why wouldn't I want to see my sweet Jesus' dreams fulfilled for my life. I'm sure they are so much greater and bigger than the ones I could ever dream up for myself. Why? Because He knows and wants what's best & loves me more than I could ever comprehend. I'm sure I'll be sharing a lot while reading this book and listening to the sermons. I'm so excited & super expectant of how The Lord is going to change my heart during these next few weeks. That was confirmed today through an email from a sweet friend. She invited me to be in a prayer group with some of the most Godly, wise, & unbelievable women I know. I'm serious y'all...these women are doing HUGE things to impact the Kingdom & the lives of women and girls! I am so humbled and excited to be able to join in prayer with them on the first Monday of every month. To pray sun stand still prayers for ourselves & our nation. That a great awakening would occur. I know that I am going to learn and grow so much through spending some sweet time with these Godly women the first Monday of each month. So I challenge you...what sun stand still prayer do you need to pray today? Don't be afraid to pray it. Approach the throne with boldness, confidence & I know you'll be amazed by what God will do as you see audacious faith rise up in you.

These are the last...I promise!

2010-09-19T15:38:00.002-05:00

Okay I am sure y'all are tired of seeing all of my pictures from The Open but my friend Sarah just sent me these from our trip and I couldn't resist uploading them to the blog because they are too cute!

Sarah & I on the last day. We had a phone sticker so we got to take some pictures inside the ropes! We sat on hole one all day and watched everyone tee off & come up 18!

If you follow me on twitter you know I have the school girl crush on Dustin Johnson! I had hung out with him one night before The Open started but didn't have my camera or ask for an autograph because um hello, I was trying to play it cool!

Sarah & I were waiting to get his autograph after he finished up but he took too long & we wanted to beat the crowd so we left. These are our "sad face" pictures because we didn't see him!

Rory....let me just tell y'all he is a rock star in Great Britain! No lie I got squashed

between several people and almost got hurt because of people trying to get to him! His fans are CRAZY!!

Melt My Heart....

2010-09-19T00:28:00.003-05:00

Friday was my last day with these sweet babies. Praise The Lord Kenzie made it to full term and baby Scout is now big enough to welcomed to this world as a healthy, strong little guy.

I knew saying "see you later" would be tough on me because by nature I have a very tender heart so you can imagine how proud I was of myself when that precious little boy came running up to me and said, "I love you Miss Joy." Now, don't go thinking I got out of there that easy. His Mom and I were outside saying our goodbyes when all of a sudden the front door opened and I heard his sweet voice yell...."Bye Miss Joy! I love you!" Y'all, the tears started flowing and I was a hot mess. I mean I'm talking a messy cry. Who would have known a four year old little boy could have that effect on me?!?!? The kids in this picture have touched my heart and changed my life! I can't even begin to tell you the sweet lessons The Lord has taught me these past five weeks while being with them. (That in itself is a whole other post....)

It did get me thinking though. If Deacon saying I love you had that effect on me then just think of how much joy it brings the Father when we lavish our love on Him. Oh I can just imagine the smile it must bring to His face. So many times I find myself just assuming He knows and I forget to tell Him. I don't think we could ever tell Him enough! So go on...take some time and tell Him how much you love Him today.

"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!"

1 John 3:1

The Nanny Diaries...

2010-09-14T19:34:00.009-05:00

These past few weeks I have been helping my friend Kenzie out with her precious kiddos while she has been on bed rest. Deacon and Faith Claire have captured my heart, I am crazy about them, & am going to miss them so much when the gig is up on Friday! No day has been the same and let me tell y'all I have a new found respect for you stay at home Mom's....hardest job out there! Here are some pictures of some of the super fun adventures we have been on these past few weeks...

Of course I took them golfing...well, putt putt that is!

It was a little hot this day but we had so much fun!

Deacon after his hole in one!

Weekly trips to Chick-fil-a!

This girl LOVES her Chick-fil-a Ice dream....

Deacon after his....

Diggin' in my purse....such a girly girl!

Playing at the mall playground!

Exhausted after a fun day!

Radiant!

2010-09-11T09:14:00.002-05:00

Last night I had the privilege to attend my good friend Marian Jordan's book release party to celebrate her fourth book being released! Marian is the founder of Redeemed Girl Ministries and has a heart for The Lord and seeing girls redeemed! I am so proud of Marian and have loved watching The Lord grow her ministry for His glory! I lived with her during the first years of the ministry & the "writing process" of two of her books! Every girl should read them. Trust me y'all it is like she is sitting on the couch with you telling you her story! It is a beautiful picture of how The Lord uses redemption for His glory! Marian, I am so proud of you and can not wait to see how The Lord uses this book to minister and impact girls around the country and even the world!

10 Years....my how time flies!

2010-09-06T15:00:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago I attended my ten year reunion! It really does seem like just yesterday I was walking the halls of my alma matter! I did. I loved where I went to school. We were and still are considered one of if not the strongest High School Football programs in Texas. Have you seen the movies Friday Night Lights or Varsity Blues? Yup, that is so my school! It was so great to get together with old friends and catch up with them! My camera battery died so these are the only pictures I have! Hope y'all all had a great Labor Day weekend!

Kristin, Jaimie, me, & Kristel. Best Friends then & Best Friends now!

Me, Meggie, & Kristel!

I hate the angle of this picture...Kristin's little boy Keaton took it! :) In the gym where we spent a lot of time!

Pathways...

2010-09-03T16:00:00.004-05:00

Life's pathways. This phase has me thinking a lot lately and reflecting so much on God's will for my life. His will. Let's just say 2010 so far has been a long year. I really thought my life would be going one way and now it is another. I barely had time to blink. I am currently walking down a path that I didn't plan or see coming. A path that The Lord has orchestrated and forced me onto. I'm going to be completely honest I've been experiencing several conversations in my head lately...have you ever had them.....You know what I'm talkin' about....those conversations.

"Are you serious Lord? Is this really Your plan? Are you sure you've got Your hand in This one? Are you sure this is Your best...I mean I kind of feel like I've been getting the short end of the stick lately..."

I know I've said it before, I hate change. I really, really hate it. I love to be comfortable and know what's coming next. I love to be in a routine and have every detail planned out. Maybe, just maybe that's why He has me on this path right now. This path is the most uncomfortable one I have been on & oh how I have been praying for Him to take me off of it. As I listened to Perry Noble this morning I was reminded of the question he asked....His kingdom or my comfort?

Oh Joy.

I have a confession to make. I have been so consumed with what's been going on that I had lost sight of that question. I had almost forgotten that He knows my heart better than I do & has nothing but the best for me. It was almost as if He was saying, Baby girl, I know you & I formed you. My dreams for you are bigger than you could ever dream. Let go. Trust. Give me control." I found myself seeking some serious forgiveness at the feet of my sweet Jesus this morning, asking Him to use this path right now for His glory and His kingdom, even if I am uncomfortable & that means staying on this path a little longer.

This path is not one that I thought I'd be on but it is the one He has chosen for me. I have no idea what He is up to but I refuse to quit. No matter what comes next. My sweet Jesus is up to something big & I have so much peace in knowing that He is in control & orchestrating every step along the way.

"Take my will and make it Thine it shall be no longer mine. Take my heart it is Thine own it shall be Thy royal throne. Take my love, my Lord I pour at Your feet its treasure store. Take myself and I will be ever, only, all for Thee. Here am I, all of me. Take my life it's all for Thee."

More Pictures from The Open...

2010-08-06T10:12:00.005-05:00

My Daddy and I...

On the world famous bridge!!

I just think this pic is funny!

Tea at the Old Course Hotel...

Sarah & I...

We loved the jumping pictures!!!

Us with Jim Nantz...

Our girl Inga!!

My Dad!

Proud American's place!

The 150th Open Championship!

2010-08-02T10:43:00.015-05:00

Seriously y'all this was the trip of a life time! I had the best time, met some wonderful people, watched some great golf, AND surprised my Dad for his 60Th Birthday!! Rumor has it we were on ESPN, ABC, & The Golf Channel...how fun is that?!?!? If you are a lover of golf you have to go visit St. Andrews, Scotland. There seriously is nothing like it. It was so neat to be there during The Open on it's 150Th anniversary. The history. The tradition. Oh, there is just nothing like it! Here are some pictures...OK, a ton of pictures from the trip....hope you enjoy!!!

The most famous view in all of golf!!

After surprising my Dad on his Birthday!

The group!

Yup, that's my Dad's name on the leader board!

Sweet friends in Scotland!

Room service for the Titelest boys!

My Dad's favorite thing to do during The Open....grill!

To Old Tom's grave we go....at 12:30 in the morning.....

Hoping the fence....

Yea! We did it!!

The group....notice Jim Nantz...

Found it!

Pretty skies!!

Yes, you can have four seasons in a day over there....

My Dad's place was "the spot" during The Open....this is outside because people couldn't get in!

Graehme McDowell winner of the US Open

Arnold Palmer even stopped by to say hello! He was Such a nice man!

Reliving the moment I met Mr. Palmer because my camera died....

Sergio!! So good to see him back and playing good golf again...

The 18Th on Sunday.....

Tiger and Lucas Glover....seriously y'all, Lucas is the nicest guy on the tour!

Tour of St. Andrews with Golf Week & our favorite locals Nicola & Hannah! You can see the video on the Golf Week website!

The girls in front of the castle...

The castle...

At the castle in Edinburgh....

Royal Mile....

Every shopper HAS to stop here!!!

Perfect way to end a perfect trip....seeing Wicked for the first time ever!!

Scotland, Paris, & London.....Oh my!

2010-07-01T11:22:00.005-05:00

Saturday I am leaving for Europe and could not be more excited!!! My first stop is St. Andrews, Scotland "The home of golf" to visit my Dad & to attend The Open! I can't wait to see some of the worlds greatest golfers play the most famous golf course in the world! It is also the 150Th anniversary of The Open so it is going to be a neat experience! Make sure you watch the golf channel they are doing a special on my Dad and his hotel...so exciting!!!

My next stop on the trip will be Paris, France! I have never been here before so I am super excited about this! I'm not sure what we will do except of course visit all of the historical sites and eat lots of good food! :) The Tour de France riders will be finishing up while we are there so that will be fun to watch and experience!!! I have a feeling I am going to fall in love with this city!

Last stop London! I love this city so much! It is so much fun and full of life!!!

BRX Pictures!!!

2010-07-01T10:37:00.006-05:00

So I haven't blogged in forever! 2 weeks of Beach Retreat and then being sick for another full week I'm a little behind! I wanted to share some pictures from High School and JHigh Beach Retreat! It was an amazing two weeks and The Lord did huge things in the lives of students and leaders! I am so unworthy and blown away that The Lord has me in this place right now. To get paid to love on and minister to students & to see them fall madly in love with Jesus. There is nothing better!

My Jhigh girls at rec!

My High school Condo!

World's largest Volleyball game!

The worship was incredible!

Silent Sounds....thousands of students getting still before The Lord!

Mark & Britt's Wedding....

2010-06-07T01:56:00.002-05:00

This weekend my two friends Mark & Britt got married! It was a fun weekend full of sweet memories and friends...I had the privilege of being apart of her house party! Here are some pictures from the day!

Sweet friends...

The happy couple...

Small group girls...

Britt!

Daniel, Ashley, & Walker...check out his tux!

BRX!

2010-06-03T10:15:00.004-05:00

On Sunday I am headed to Gulf Shores, Alabama with our High School ministry to love on and serve a condo full of High School girls...this is seriously one of my most favorite things to do! Please be praying for the staff, the sponsors, and especially the hearts of the High School students. That The Lord would do BIG, BIG, BIG things in their precious hearts and that the lost ones would enter into a relationship with Him for the first time! I am super expectent of what He is going to do this week! Please be praying for me as I am teaching one of the classes. I am a little anxious about it because I haven't ever taught anyone over the age of 6! :) You can follow us on the Beach Retreat Blog for daily updates, pictures, videos, and a live stream of the worship service at night! Thanks so much for your thoughts and prayers!!

LOST...

2010-05-25T13:15:00.003-05:00

Sunday night millions of viewers tuned into their TVs to say farewell to the show LOST & I was one of them. I have been a faithful viewer after watching seasons one & two while recovering from surgery while in college & became hooked. Even though I didn't have my own theory. I loved the show. The writers are brilliant and I loved learning about all the characters each week. I have mixed feelings about the ending but was so glad all of the characters ended up together. Am I still LOST....Absolutely! We had viewing party Sunday night complete with an island themed meal with LOST themed names! Here are some pictures of the fun themed spread we enjoyed that night!

Extendend Family...

2010-05-19T23:25:00.007-05:00

Tonight the word family is on my heart. It's the one thing in life that you don't choose. The one thing you are born into. The one thing you can't change. However, I think there are two types of families. One that you are born into and then others that you stumble across along this journey of life...an extended family who becomes your real family.

To me my extended family looks like this...

They love and accept you no matter what your flaws...

Hold you accountable...

Cry when you are hurting...

Push you to be better...

Pray for each other without ceasing...

You want the best for them no matter what that looks like...

You don't have to say a word. They know if you are hurting or sad...

Been through every emotion together. Laughter, tears, screaming, yelling...Y'all, I'm talking EVERY emotion out there & it doesn't matter...

No matter how badly you've hurt them or they have hurt you. You love them anyway...

You can show up announced. Walk through the door. Not even knock & know it's OK...

They get offended if you don't feel welcome...

They treat you & talk to you like one of their kids...They even compare you to their kids...

They trust you with their kids...

Their kids list you as a sibling on Facebook & call you sister or brother...

It could. My list could go on and on but tonight I am oh so thankful for my "extended family". Even though at times we can be just as if not even more dysfunctional than my blood related family they are a precious, unexpected gift from The Lord. Every single one of them who have changed my life and will be forever be apart of it. Because somehow along this journey of life they have. These people have become just as precious to me as my real family & I couldn't imagine what my what my life would be without them.

They get it...

2010-05-16T21:53:00.003-05:00

On Sunday mornings a lot of people who pass by my room think that what I do is babysitting for two hours. I beg to differ and would debate it with anyone. I have the privilege every Sunday to tell Preschoolers about my sweet Jesus & lead them in praise and worship. GiGL (growing in God's love) is what I do. It's what I'm passionate about. It's what I love. Sharing God's love with the precious little ones who come through my doors each week. Today The Lord gave me several sweet reminders of how they get it. Of how He works in their little hearts. Of how they are experiencing His love at such a young age.

It came in the form of a little girl who hugged my neck and whispered..."I'm going to shine my light at my cheerleading practice today." You see....that's what we've been teaching them these last couple of weeks. That they can shine their lights. Even at a young age.

It also came through Kindergartner telling me she didn't want to go to JUMP in three weeks.

The last way The Lord used one of them was through a little boy in my backseat. I had the Passion Awakening CD playing and when Crowders' song He loves us came on sweet Kason was belting the chorus at the top of his lungs. It didn't stop there. He continued to sing Our God is greater by Tomlin too. You could see it all over his face. He was praising

My thoughts today....

2010-05-15T23:53:00.008-05:00

Living a life that is above reproach is the only way to live...

Looking back in my journal it's funny how my prayers for someone else have been answered...

People are mean & hurtful.... love them anyway...

There is freedom in forgiveness...

Your friends are most likely always going to be right...

Settling is not an option...

Showing Christ's love is worth it all....

It's better to have loved than to not have loved at all...

Falling out of love is the hardest thing I've had to do...

Healing really is in Your hands....

Romans 8:37

"Now in all things we know that we are more than conquerers through Him who loves us."

GiGL Tryout Video...

2010-05-12T16:27:00.001-05:00

This is a video I did to promote GiGL Tryouts with the students at our church!

Wedding Fun...

2010-05-10T10:35:00.003-05:00

This weekend my friend Katherine got married. We were in a small group together for two years and she is a precious friend to me. Sadly, I didn't get a picture of the bride and groom but trust me they are a total Ken & Barbie couple! She was a breathtaking bride, the ceremony was so sweet and the music was amazing! Here are some pictures from the day...yes, I realize you are seeing the same blue dress again...sorry about that. It's the only one in my closet that fits me right now! Hope y'all had a great weekend!!

Sweet friends...

Trista & I...

Jen, me, & Kimy...

This was take one...Tyler was being a funny one...

Pretty Flowers....

More pretty flowers....

Can you see the theme...Katherine LOVES pink even the cake!

Table Top Tapestry...

2010-05-05T14:22:00.006-05:00

Last night the Women's ministry at Second Baptist Church West Campus hosted Table Top Tapestry. This is one of the neatest things that they do! You kind of have to be apart of it to understand it. Each table is decorated by an individual and let me tell y'all...some of them are just fabulous! I got the privilege of being apart of the praise team & decorating one too for the evening & loved every second of it! Here are some pictures from the night.

The sweet ladies I sang with..

Leading Worship...

My Table....

Fifties Fashion Flashback!

Another shot...

This was my favorite table there!

Our praise team's table....

Precious cupcake table...

I LOVED the pink and green of this one!

Cute table settings!

Dad's & Dolls..

2010-05-01T12:07:00.007-05:00

A couple of weeks ago we hosted our annual Dad Daughter Date Night for Preschool! It was a Soc Hop theme and we had everything from a soda shop to a dance floor! Here are some pictures from the event! We had a blast!

Some of my team who came to help...

Julie & Me...

Daddy/Daugher Dance...

Cort & me...

Bubble Gum Blowing Contest....

Performing for the crowd!

This has become mine & Sarah's tradion!

Mine & Mallory's tradition...

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!

2010-05-01T10:54:00.002-05:00

My roommate is getting married in June so last weekend we headed out for some good girl times! We went to Lucky Strike bowling alley to celebrate Britt's last month of being single! Her and Mark have a really sweet story and it has been so neat to see how The Lord has blessed them as a couple. They dated two years ago, broke up and Britt always felt like Mark was the man God had for her. Such a great story of The Lord's faithfulness in their lives! Can't wait to be apart of the special day!

I was showing off my dress & bowling shoes....

Sweet Friends

Lucky Srike Bowling Alley...

Tradition...

Me and the Bride...

Love & Kindness....

2010-04-11T23:19:00.005-05:00

I can't even begin to tell you how many times I've heard the phrase..."Joy, your just too nice...you care too much about others & let them take advantage of that." I mean, I heard it the other day. So my question to you is do you think there is such a thing as being too nice? Do you believe there is such a thing? After all, as Christians we are called to love others with a Christlike love.

I want to show people love no matter what the cost. I want to change their lives because of it. I want people to see love & acceptance who have never seen it before. If that is how my sweet Jesus chooses to use me then so be it. Even if it means getting nothing in return. I'm learning it's not about me. It's about others & getting to be the hands and feet of Jesus to them by showing them His love & kindness.

Mark 12:30-31

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these."

Have Your Way...

2010-04-05T21:52:00.008-05:00

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy & peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

Romans 15:13

Feels like I've been here forever,
Why can`t you just intervene?
Do you see the tears keep falling?
And I'm falling apart at the seams.
But you never said the road would be easy,
But you said that you would never leave.
And you never promised that this life wasn`t hard,
But you promised you`d take care of me.

So I`ll stop searching for the answers,
I`ll stop praying for an escape,
And I`ll trust you,God, with where i am,
And believe that you will have your way.
Just have your way.
Just have your way.

When my friends and my family have left me,
And I feel so ashamed and so cold.
Remind me that you take broken things
And turn them into beautiful.

So I`ll stop searching for the answers,
I`ll stop praying for an escape,
And I`ll trust you, God, with where i am,
And believe that you`ll have your way.
Just have your way.
Just have your way.

Even if my dreams have died,
And even if i don`t survive,
I`ll still worship you with all my life.
My life.

And I`ll stop searching for the answers,
I`ll stop praying for an escape,
And I`ll trust you, God, with where i am,
And believe that you will have your way.
Just have your way.
Just have your way.

Have Your Way by: Brit Nicole

New Study....

2010-03-29T15:11:00.002-05:00

Never done this Beth Moore study before but have heard amazing things about it. I'm excited to see how The Lord is going to use it in my life!

At This Moment...

2010-03-27T21:32:00.007-05:00

I have unanswered prayers
I have trouble I wish wasn't there
And I have asked a thousand ways
That You would take my pain away
That You would take my pain away

I am trying to understand
How to walk this weary land
Make straight the paths that crookedly lie
Oh Lord, before these feet of mine
Oh Lord, before these feet of mine

When my world is shaking
Heaven stands
When my heart is breaking
I never leave Your hands

When You walked upon the Earth
You healed the broken, lost, and hurt
I know You hate to see me cry
One day You will set all things right
Yea, one day You will set all things right

When my world is shaking
Heaven stands
When my heart is breaking
I never leave Your hands

Your hands
Your hands that shape the world
Are holding me, they hold me still
Your hands that shape the world
Are holding me, they hold me still

When my world is shaking
Heaven stands
When my heart is breaking
I never leave You when...

When my world is shaking
Heaven stands
When my heart is breaking
I never leave...
I never leave Your hands

Your Hands By: JJ Heller

"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18

GiGL Fun!

2010-03-27T20:26:00.004-05:00

We've been having LOTS of fun in GiGL these past few weeks......

Round Up Weekend....

Laughter....

Creating our very own sheep!

1, 2, 3...Aim!

Worship Unraveled.....

2010-03-23T16:32:00.002-05:00

Appearing LIVE in GiGL right now.....

Our preschoolers are learning all about worship right now with a little help from our sheep band The Herd! All of the Bible stories we are teaching are based on David the ultimate worshiper!

Keep Your Head Up...

2010-03-23T16:08:00.006-05:00

Yesterday I listened to two one of Steven Furdick's sermons & can I tell you it met me right where I am? I'd encourage you to podcast it when you have some time. This series has been based out of the Psalms and on David. I LOVE this because it's what we are teaching our preschoolers about in GiGL right now. Worship. Just wanted to share with you some of the points he made that hit home to me.

The sermon was titled Keep Your Head Up & was based out of Psalm 3. Key verse: Psalm 3:3 "But You are a shield around me OH LORD; You bestow glory on me & lift up my head."

Many times when we feel like we have been betrayed by someone in our life we take that burden on us & give it major control. We let it consume us. We want justice & we want it now & what The Lord can use in your life as a blessing can turn into an ugly, evil root of anger & bitterness. Waiting for someone to apologize can be a very long process & you know what it may never come. Praise The Lord we serve a God who is just and will make everything right in His sweet time. Then he said something that The Lord used to speak directly to my heart. Even though I didn't want to hear it. Isn't that always the case y'all? "When we embrace God's purpose the thing that they did to you or hurt you can be the greatest thing God uses to get you to to where He wants you to go-to do what He needs to do in you."

Oh. My. Stars. Steven Furdick....did you really just say that! Can I just say that The Lord has a funny sense of humor.

Maybe, just maybe He's using that hurt to move you to the next step but first you have to be willing to embrace His plan. His sweet & perfect plan. Stop trying to figure it out & accept it for what it is. Forgive. Let Him heal your heart & turn that yuck into something good.

Uncomfortable....

2010-03-20T14:44:00.006-05:00

I was given a reality check yesterday and I can tell you it wasn't very fun. I haven't blogged in a while because I haven't wanted to be very transparent. I haven't wanted to write about what's been going on in my life or the path The Lord has me on right now. He has. These past few months He has rocked my world. He's thrown some twists and turns along the path that I didn't see coming. That I didn't want to happen. That have hurt me to the core. And you know what I hate the most about it? I didn't realize the reason I've been wrestling so much until someone pointed it out to me yesterday. That He's made me uncomfortable.

I do. I like to be comfortable. I like to know what's coming next. I like to have all of my ducks in a row. I like to be in control. It's OK God. I've got this. I know what's best. This is not how my life is supposed to unfold. Has been the conversation playing over and over again in my head these past few weeks. And you know what...I can just picture Him looking so lovingly down from Heaven saying...Sweet thing let go. Let go of your plan & trust me with mine. I created you and because of that you are good enough. Let it all go. Give me control. Step out in faith. Trust. I am preparing you for something so big that it will blow your mind because I know your heart better than you do. I created it after all.

So today I have a choice. To stop wrestling & let go. Or continue to ask why and question His perfect plan. I do. I choose plan A. I refuse to let the enemy win and believe his lies. I refuse to wrestle with The Lord. I refuse to depend on people to meet my needs. I refuse to stop loving & caring about others. I have His promises to rest in and am praising my sweet Jesus for that. I can't believe I'm saying this but today I'm thankful for uncomfortable. Thankful it's causing me to love Him more. Thankful it's causing me to seek Him more. Thankful that it is pushing me to be a better person. Thankful it's causing me to love others more. Thankful it's taking me to bigger and better things. My only prayer along the way is that I will be a reflection of His love to others as I walk down the path He has for me.

This is my story this is my song. Praising my Savior all the day long. This is my story this is my song. Praising my Savior all the day long.

Sweet Cambodia...

2010-03-19T17:47:00.005-05:00

Today's show us your life at Kelly's Korner is show us your mission trip. Two summers ago I headed across the world to an orphanage in Cambodia to love on kids and tell them about my sweet Jesus. It was one of the neatest experiences I have ever had and my life was changed forever. Mostly by the sweet little girl in the picture. Her name is Lane and we shared a bond from the moment we met. She didn't talk at all that first day but by the end of the trip I had her saying my name. She even trusted me enough that on the last day that as we were sitting on the balcony and she closed her eyes and walked towards me. When she couldn't find me she called out my name & jumped into my arms. She did. She knew I would guide her to me and that I would catch her if she fell. Lane & the other precious children left footprints on my heart that summer. When I boarded the plane home I left a piece of my heart at this sweet place. I hope that one day The Lord opens the door for me to journey back to love on & serve the children at The Shelter of Love.

Letting Go...

2010-03-10T11:39:00.003-06:00

Letting Go....

To let go doesn't mean to stop caring,

It means I can't do it for someone else.

To let go is not to cut myself off,

It's the realization that I can't control another.

To let go is not to enable,

But to allow learning from natural consequences.

To let go is to admit powerlessness,

which means the outcome is not in my hands.

To let go is not to try to change or blame another.

I can only change myself.

To let go is not to care for,

But to care about.

To let go is not to fix,

But to be supportive.

To let go is not to judge,

But to allow another to make his own choices.

To let go is not to be in the middle arranging all the outcomes.

But to allow others to effect their own outcomes.

To let go is not to be protective;

It is to permit another to face reality.

To let go is not to deny,

But to accept.

To let go is not to nag, scold, or argue,

But to search out my own shortcomings and to correct them.

To let go is not to adjust everything to my desires,

But to accept each day as it comes.

To let go is not to criticize and regulate anyone,

But to focus on achieving my own freedom.

To let go is not to regret the past,

But to grow and live for the future.

To let go is to fear less and love more!

My Heart Today....

2010-03-02T15:56:00.005-06:00

My Brightness By: Charlie Hall

Well I’ve been hit from every corner, and I’ve been thrown from side to side.

And the cracks are on the inside, so I come to you for life.

Your presence always heals me, so I wanna drink it in, You know where we’re going God, and You know where I’ve been…

And your Love is like a rock, when I’m spinning, Your love is like a rock, when I’m spinning, you’re love is like a rock when I’m spinning, around.

Yesterday I felt so angry, and today so insecure. And I hate it that I wrestle with the God that I adore, Your presence always heals me, so I wanna drink it in. You know where we're going God, You know where I’ve been.

And your love is like a rock, when I’m spinning.Your love is like a rock, when I’m spinning.Your love is like a rock, when I’m spinning....

And I know less about You, but my heart loves You so much more.You’re the bright in sadness, you’re my Brightness.

I wish this thing could pass from me, but I’m wanting what you want.So bring me high or bring me low just hold me in your love.

And your love….is like a rock, when I’m spinning, your love is like a rock, when I’m spinning your love is like a rock when I’m spinning your love is like a rock when I’m spinning....

Your love is like a rock when I’m spinning… around.

Grace For All Seasons...

2010-02-26T00:07:00.002-06:00

Last night the West Campus the women's ministry hosted an even titled Grace For all Seasons. It was a night of praise and worship & three great words from Mrs. Young, Pam Thompson, & Tonya Riggle. Let me just tell y'all...The Lord spoke powerfully through these sweet women.

Mrs. Young started the evening off talking about God's grace. That it is sufficient for anything & everything. That no matter what season He has you in for this moment His grace is enough...it's all we need. Period.

Next came Pam Thompson. Can I just tell y'all I want to be exactly like this woman when I grow up? She started by talking about the different doors we stand in front of. You know...those doors. They can be anything really...fear, loneliness, waiting, disappointment, control..really the list could go on and on for whatever season you are in. But one thing remains the same and that is The Love of our precious Savior. And for every door He chooses to shut He promises to open another one while He's standing there saying trust Me & My plan for your life baby girl, I know what's on the other side. All you have to do is walk through & trust Me sweet thing my grace is sufficient for you.

Then there was Tonya. Let me just tell Y'all there is something about this lady when she speaks. Her sweet spirit fills the room and leaves you wanting more. She talked about standing at the door of longing. Really. Did we have to go there tonight? That so many times we stand there, & stand there, & stand there, & stand there...(get the picture) just wrestling with The Lord. Wrestling with Him so much so that we find ourselves at complete & total exhaustion. That so often that place of longing can leave us in a place that is not good. A place to where our hearts, the most beautiful thing about us can suddenly become hard & cold. Begging for Him to let us go through that door (whatever it may be) because we want it now. But so many times He is saying (maybe even yelling) sweet thing look over here. This is your door right now won't you walk through it? The choice is yours really. You can choose to stand at the door of longing or choose to wait on Him & His precious timing & walk through your door. That once we walk through our eyes will be opened to something fresh & new. Something beautiful & exciting. Something we may have never gotten to experience if we stay standing at the door of longing. Then one day God willing He will bless us with whatever that may be and we will say of course. Your timing is perfect. You knew what was best. All we have to do is step.

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 12:9

Change...

2010-02-17T16:37:00.008-06:00

Change. This word has been known to send chills up my spine. If you know me well then you know I am not a huge fan of this word or when it happens in my life. Maybe it's because I am not in control or that I can't do anything about it. I do. I like things the same. I like to know what's going to be next around the corner. I viewed change as a bad thing until The Lord totally spoke to my heart Sunday night while reading Beth Moore's new book So Long Insecurity, you've been a bad friend to us. This struck a chord with my heart.....

"Many of us have learned the hard way that one phone call from a relative or an employer can be the end of life as we know it. Even when we know that God is in the picture and every end leads to a new beginning, right at that moment of discovery, we tend to feel that everything wonderful is over. Does it suddenly sound like we're talking about loss again instead of change? As we keep digging around for roots of insecurity, we're going to find that most of them are intertwined underground. Case in point: our hearts often translate sudden and dramatic change as either instability or a form of loss. Sometimes it hits us as both. "

The truth is, God uses change to change us. He doesn't use it to destroy us or to distract us but to coax us to the next level of character, experience, compassion, and destiny."

I know it won't happen over night but my prayer is that The Lord will change my heart in how I view change. That it wont' be an earth shattering blow but something that I view as exciting and am very expectant about what my precious Savior is going to do in my life. That the change that He is taking me through during whatever season will result in Him doing BIG things in my life just for the simple fact that He wants to give me His best. All I have to do is walk in faith trusting and believing that my sweet Jesus is orchestrating every step of my life & making something beautiful out of it through the journey to bring Him honor and glory.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

My New Read....

2010-02-08T15:33:00.005-06:00

Excited to dive into Beth Moore's newest book...This could be a painful one y'all....I'll keep you posted on what I think! If your intrested you can share your thoughts on this book and read along with other women at the Living Proof Ministries blog!

Sneak Peak....

2010-02-07T13:43:00.001-06:00

Premiere Weekend was an incredible weekend....God showed up in some big ways & did some huge things! I'm going to take a nap then share more later I just wanted to give y'all a sneak peak of the fun!

Rejoice Always!

2010-01-18T16:30:00.003-06:00

What The Lord's teaching me....

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:4-8

He's in The Details...

2010-01-15T15:01:00.001-06:00

I do. I really love how The Lord works and just how sweet He can be to us sometimes. You know what I'm talking about don't you? Those precious reminders He sends our way just to show that He cares and & hasn't forgotten about us. This morning during my time with Him I was reminded just of how He brings things around. You see I filled up my second prayer journal and thought it would be fun to flip through the first one I started. Of course I opened it to page one and guess what the date read....January 15, 2009. And what did I journal about that very morning a year ago....the EXACT story I studied this morning...no lie....the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel.

He did.

This morning He met me right where He knew I needed to be met. It was a sweet reminder to me that He knows all the details and is working for the good in my life. That I need to allow Him to continue to mold and shape me into the woman He wants me to be...to be better for Him. He holds the world in His hands & He is a God who loves and cares about me & the details of my life & waiting on Him is not such a terrible place to be at all. In fact, as much as I hate to say it I think it's often sometimes the best place to be because it causes you to really have faith and trust that He is in control and knows what's best. Did you catch that...He knows what's best. My precious Savior who holds the entire world in His hands is orchestrating every step, twist and turn of my life. Today's page is not blank in fact it's already written...nothing comes as a suprise to Him. He's in the details y'all...the big and the small....and for me that is enough to rest in today.

"The Lord is my strengh & sheild; my heart trusts in Him, & I am helped. My heart leaps for joy & I will give thanks to Him in song!" Psalm 28:7

Resolutions...

2010-01-07T14:40:00.000-06:00

Well 2010 is off to a great start. I have never been very good at keeping resolutions. I've stopped making them because honestly I wouldn't write them down or just forget about them all together. I was talking with a good friend about resolutions the other night and something about our conversation really struck a chord & got me thinking. Most of the time we set resolutions to make ourselves better. You know the token ones...work out more, loose weight, read more, be more organized, the list goes on and on. We as a society tend to get so focused on how I can make myself better before we even stop and ask God how we can be better for Him in the upcoming year. We forget to ask Him how can I serve You more, glorify You more, or better yet love You more this year. That is what I so desperately want my life to show in 2010...my sweet Jesus and His unfailing love & that is what I'm resolving to do.

Congratulations Mark & Britt!

2010-01-02T12:35:00.001-06:00

My roommate and good friend Brittiany got engaged over the Christmas break! I am so excited for her and Mark. They have such a precious story and it has been so neat to watch The Lord work in their lives as they waited on His perfect timing for them. Here are some pictures from their surprise engagement party the other night!

The girls..

Being silly!

The Happy Couple!

His best in 2010....

2009-12-31T14:10:00.000-06:00

Well, today is the last day of 2009. Wow. It's crazy how quickly a year can pass you by. I'm finding as I get older the years seem to slip by faster and faster. This year was filled with sweet memories that I will cherish forever, and hard times too that only molded and shaped me more into the woman Christ wants me to be. Refinement is hard but is something I will always be thankful for. I am very excited about 2010 and the things that will be waiting for me this year. Who knows what The Lord has in store but isn't that what makes it exciting? And better yet to know & trust that He has His best waiting for us in 2010. Not what I think is best, not His second best, but His VERY best. I was reminded of this sweet promise this morning during my quiet time. That His best may not look like my best but it is going to be something even better. Something that will blow my mind and I will be oh so thankful for. As I sat before Him this morning I was reminded that He has never failed me yet & sometimes it takes letting go of what I think is best to only wait on His very best. 2009 will be a year that I hold very close to my heart for I feel as though I've learnt and grown the most this year. However, as I leave 2009 behind I simply can't wait for The Lord to unfold what His best is for me in 2010.

Kids Crazy Christmas Show!

2009-12-31T14:08:00.001-06:00

Kids Crazy Christmas Show has come and gone! We participated in the pre-show and were the GiGL Band...kind of looked like the doodle bops. I literally had a little girl come up to me after one of the shows and tell me she watches me on TV every day! Ha! I had so much fun spending time, hanging out, & loving on the students in the pictures below! They were amazing and so much fun to be with! The Lord also taught me some tough lessons about myself during the show that I am working on and changing. I am so blessed to get to do what I do every day....what a fun way to get to tell people about the birth of our precious Savior. I have heard so many fun stories about how The Lord has used KCCS this season in the lives of the people who came. I am so humbled that He gives me the opportunity to get to show others His love with the gifts He has blessed me with on a daily basis.

His Sweet Grace...

2009-12-28T14:04:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I got to attend the 11:11 service at our Woodway campus because there was no GiGL. Let me just share with you how blessed I was through the time of prayer and praise we had. You know my sweet Jesus must have just known that was so needed in my life. Being in ministry I don't get to attend a service that often and yesterday was just what I had needed. You see I've really been wrestling with The Lord lately and we all know that can be really, really tiring. I don't think I realized just how tired I was until I sat down in our worship center yesterday & came to the conclusion that I am utterly exhausted. Don't get me wrong I have been spending time with Him, praying, seeking His face I have just been frustrated with where He has me right now in life. Why? because it's not where I want to be...I'm just being real. There is that sentence again...where "I" want to be. I'm going to be completely honest the month of December has been a tough one for me.

Yesterday as I started to pray & get still He reminded me of something I so desperately needed. The sweet promise that He gives us. He doesn't promise us a life that is free of hurt, pain, sickness, or anything else but He does promise to give us His grace to walk us through those times. His sweet grace. Isn't that what keeps us running back into His arms, what keeps us leaning on Him, what leads us back to the cross every single time. What a sweet promise...His grace is sufficient to meet all of our needs. Not some of them... but all of them. And that precious promise alone is enough for me to rest in and get me through the day.

Baby Hank Update...

2009-12-18T09:11:00.001-06:00

Hank had his heart surgery yesterday and everything went smoothly in the morning. He was in the Operating room between 6-8 hours and the Doctors fixed the problem with his heart! Praise The Lord!! Some of us were at dinner last night when my friend Trista received a text message from Samantha that said Hank is bleeding out please pray. Of course we jumped in the car and drove her down to Memorial Herman to be with Samantha and Derek to wait to hear some news about sweet Hank. About 20 min. later the nurse came out and told them that they found the bleeding and stopped the problem...Praise The Lord! The next 72 hours are critical for Hank so please continue to be on your knees for this family and this precious baby! You can keep up with them at the family blog... www.theharughtys.blogspot.com

Please Pray!

2009-12-09T09:31:00.001-06:00

My friend Samantha gave birth to her first baby boy Hank last night after undergoing a c-section. Hank appeared to be born a healthy baby boy but had some fluid in his lungs so they took him to the NICU just to be safe. Well during the night he was having trouble breathing so a team of Doctors from Memorial Herman downtown rushed to the Woodlands branch to see Hank. This is what they discovered....there is something in our hearts that make a figure 8 that must connect...his does not causing the blood to not flow correctly and difficulty breathing. He has been life flighted to Memorial Herman Downtown where they will perform surgery. Today at 11:00 they will tear a hole in his heart until he is strong enough to perform the actual heart surgery in 4-5 days.

Please lift this precious baby boy and his parents Samantha and Derek up to The Lord right now as they are going through this time. Pray that The Lord will guide the hands and give the Doctors wisdom in how to handle sweet little Hanks heart. Also that The Lord would give Samantha & Derek the peace & comfort that only He can provide during this time.

Thanks for praying!

It's that time of year again...Kids Crazy Christmas Show!

2009-12-07T13:51:00.001-06:00

It's that time of year again....time for the Kids Crazy Christmas Show at Second Baptist Church Houston, Texas! If you live in the Houston area you will not want to miss one of these shows full of fun music, puppets, dancing, & singing! You won't want to miss the cookie corner on your way out....and it's all free!!! Can't wait to see you there December 11-12 & 18-23

My Reflection....

2009-11-12T23:20:00.001-06:00

Last night at Plugged In Michael Head spoke to the Junior High Students about their reflection. I just happened to be there and The Lord totally spoke to my heart through this message. I'm going to be real...I found myself in the back of the room fighting back the tears. The conversation went something like this...."Are you serious Lord? This is a service for Junior High kids." Little did I know He had something in store for me.

Reflection.

What does my reflection show? When people see me do they see Christ or do they see Joy? Do I live my life for me and to make my name known or for Christ & His name? My heart is the later of the statement but everyday I find myself falling so short.

I do. My hearts desire is to make Christ known. To be a reflection of His love. For Him to be a reflection in my face. To be just like Moses when he came down from that mountain. That when people see me they see the love of my precious Savior. That His love would radiate from me & be contagious. That it wouldn't be circumstantial but would be rooted deep in His love & what He's done for me.

My prayer is that no matter what my reflection would show Christ and His love. Honestly, that's me. That is my heart's desire. That I would live it, reflect it, and show it to the precious people that He places in my path on a daily basis.

What does your reflection say about you today?

Use Me...

2009-11-02T09:36:00.000-06:00

If you pray these words I promise you He will use you & most likely in ways you could never imagine or think. I learned this sweet lesson yesterday as I was reading through my journal from the past year. Little did I know a prayer I had been praying had been answered. In a way I never would have expected or anticipated.

This got me thinking....am I willing to let Jesus use me no matter what that looks like? To be His hands & feet even if it is for someone else's benefit? I'm going to be honest my answer is yes but sometimes it is so hard to grasp. To grasp that maybe Him using me may not always be for my benefit & might even hurt a little bit. But you know what...that should be OK because it's making me more like Him. It's causing me to be selfless & to show unconditional love to others. It's causing me to show the people in my life Him. The one thing I so desperetly desire to do.

So today I challenge you to let Him use you. No matter what that looks like. Let Him out of the box you have so tightly put Him in & let Him blow your mind with how He can do that! Let Him use you to minsiter & love on the people He has placed in your life today & in ways that you never expected! Let Him use you to be the hands & feet of Jesus to the precious people He places in your life....and along the journey make sure you remember to thank Him for those sweet people...

A Precious Moment....

2009-10-27T13:38:00.000-05:00

Here are some more pictures from Drew and Lindsey's wedding. Her Uncle is a professional photographer and is so good that he has even made the cover of Sports Illustrated! These are some precious pictures because right before Lindsey walked down the isle each Bridesmaid prayed for her and Drew. It was seriously one of the sweet experiences I have ever particiapted it. You could just feel the Holy Spirit's sweet presence in the room...it is a moment that will forever be printed on my heart & I just wanted to share this precious moment with you.

Fall Fun!

2009-10-26T14:59:00.000-05:00

On Thursday night my sweet friends Lauren & Kate hosted a girls night at their apartment! We ate White Chili, Pumpkin Crunch Cake, Watched Ghost of Girlfriend's past, & painted pumpkins! It was a great time to celebrate fall! Here are some pictures from the night...as you can see my painting skills are not that great....it was still a lot of fun though! :)

My pumpkin with polka dots on it!

Check out my Concentration y'all!

Painting Away....

My name turned out prettier than my pumpkin.....

Under God's Big Top!

2009-10-22T16:46:00.000-05:00

We are having so much fun going Under God's Big Top in GiGL right now!

Glee!

2009-10-22T15:35:00.000-05:00

My new obsession right now on my tvo is the TV show Glee. It has nothing to do with the plot line or anything else but the phenomenal talent this cast possesses. It's an hour long show that comes on Fox on Wednesday nights & is like no other show on television. The cast of characters normally sings at least three songs and they are so talented! The songs that the glee club sings are not your normal "choir songs" they are popular songs from today's culture. The writers on this show are creative geniuses in my opinion. They are doing things that no one else on TV is doing or has ever attempted to do. For example the high school football team busted out into Beyonce's Single Ladies in the middle of a football game! Watching this show brings back sweet memories from my glory days in show choir....only the songs we sang were not that cool!

Weekend Wedding!

2009-10-19T09:19:00.000-05:00

This weekend I had the opportunity to stand up for two very dear friends of mine. I have been in my fair share of weddings but this one was different. I really can't explain it but it was. It was so fun to experience a weekend with some of my closest friends. Drew & Lindsey's story is a true testimony of The Lord's faithfulness in our lives and I simply can not wait to see how He uses it to bless and minister to others. The rehearsal dinner was just as sweet as the wedding. One by one Drew & Lindsey's friends got up and shared about how special they are and how much they meant to each one of them. Let me tell you that room was full of one word....love. You could just feel it. It was such a precious time with dear friends that I will never forget.

One word described Lindsey on Saturday and that was stunning! She was an absolutely breathtaking bride! The wedding was officiated by Dr. Young and was so sweet. He did an amazing job....sometimes I am quick to forget just how gifted he is.

Mr. & Mrs. Drew Daniels!

Our old small group.

Tradition.

Bridesmaids

Sweet Friends.....

My New Favorite Blog!

2009-10-06T09:43:00.000-05:00

Thanks to my sweet friend Kimy I have a new favorite blog! You should check it out here at www.kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com Katie is a girl from Tennessee who spends half of her time in Uganda where she started Amazima Ministries. Through this ministry she is running an oprphanage for some of the precious kids who live in this nation. It is her heart to show Christ and His love to the people of Uganda....did I mention she is only 20 years old? (I think)

Take a few minutes and read her blog. It will humble you, inspire you, challenge you and so, so much more!

My First 5K Experience....

2009-10-04T22:15:00.000-05:00

Well Saturday was race day and it was an experience I'll never forget. I woke up Saturday morning feeling both excited and nervous. I was on my way to run my first 5K....something I never thought I would do ever in my life. A month ago if you had asked me if I was a runner my response would most likely have sounded something like, "are you kidding me?" but honestly my curiosity got the best of me and I wanted to see if I could do it. I had always heard...."anyone can run" I just never thought that for myself. So I signed up and started training...I was going to run this race.

The training was interesting....I really liked .5 and even 1.5 but when it got longer than that I found myself becoming a little discouraged....I never wanted to quit I just found myself wanting to be better. Did I have days when I didn't think I could do it....absolutely but that caused me to push myself even harder. I knew come race day that training would pay off.

And that brings me to Saturday. Race day. I wish I could express to you all the emotions I felt when I finished the race but I can't. There just simply aren't enough words to describe how I felt. I can tell you that I finished at a little over 35 minutes and that was enough for me! I beat the goal I had set for myself and was so excited about that.

I can tell you this. A little encouragement and support can go a long way. I know without a doubt I couldn't have done it without everything I had received from the people in my life! Will I run another race? Without a doubt yes! I am already trying to figure out which one I'll be participating in next & I'll for sure let you know when I decide! Hope y'all have a great Monday!

2 Timothy 2:7"I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

Fall Riot is Happening Y'all!

2009-09-30T11:49:00.000-05:00

Tonight the Student ministry at the West Campus is putting on an event called Fall Riot! I am super excited about tonight and seeing it all come together. Fall Riot is an community wide event that brings in local football players, cheerleaders, a dance crew and more! It has been so neat to watch the students that serve with me on the GiGL Team get passionate about inviting their friends who are lost to come tonight! I can't wait to see what The Lord does through our talented Student Ministry and the kids who come! If you have a chance please lift up a prayer for this event...the staff working it & every single student who is going to attend!

Katie Warren's CD Release!

2009-09-23T09:19:00.000-05:00

I have some very exciting news to share! My sweet friend Katie has been working on her CD for the past year and it is debuting on November 1st! If you are in the area come on out to Second Baptist Houston C gym at 6:00pm.

If you need a worship leader or performer you should contact her! She is an amazing girl with a heart for The Lord. You can tell just by talking to her or watching her worship Him!

When Katie and I first met we instantly clicked it just seemed like everything we talked about we had something in common. A bond was formed & instantly we knew we would be life long friends. I am so proud of her and can't wait to see how The Lord uses the gifts He has given her as she starts this new exciting journey!

Check out her website here www.katiewarrenmusic.com.

love

2009-09-21T11:22:00.000-05:00

This past week I have been learning all about Christ's love...I can't seem to get away from it. Dr. Young preached about it, the topic in my Bible Study was on it, we even touched on it in small group on Tuesday night.

Christ's love.

I sometimes find it difficult for me to wrap my mind around His love. To grasp it. To rest in it. To accept it. That everyday I fall so short and yet the one thing that still remains faithful and true is His love. That fact alone should make it easy. His love is constant, never changing, never failing.

Thank you Jesus for your love.

My prayer this past week has been that I would rest in His love & to fully know it. So return I can show His love to others. I do. I want people to ask what is different about me. To be a girl that people want to be around because I radiate Christ's love. To love with a love that is contagious and overflowing. To brighten & bless someones day with His love.

Who are you showing Christ's love to today?

"And I pray that you, being rooted & established in love, may have the power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide & long & deep is the love of Christ." Ephesians 3:17-18

Recap....

2009-09-16T10:23:00.001-05:00

Get excited Blair...I'm back to my weekly recaps! :)

Last night at small group we started discussing Max Lucado's new book Fearless. Chapter one was all about Fear. Understanding it. Identifying it. Fixing it. It was so insightful and encouraging to sit with these Godly gals & just encourage & challenge each other with our fears. One thing we focused on was the root of our that fear. Where does it come from, why do we have it. After all there is something in our hearts is causing us to fear that rejection, disappointment, people, perfectionism....I'll stop there my list could go on and on.

I don't know.....maybe it's because if I let that person down I'm afraid they'll stop loving me. Or if I let the people in my life see me mess up then *gasp* they will figure out that I'm not perfect. If I love that person big and with all that is in me maybe I won't get that in return. (then why do we even love at all) Or if I let them see the "real me" they will see the imperfections, the cracks, the bumps and bruises (that have made me me) & stop loving me. These are just a few of the things we discussed last night.

One thing that really struck a chord with me was when we were talking about the fear of love. I don't know about you but I know sometimes I can find myself struggling with loving myself the way I love others. It's so easy to sit in front of a mirror and pick myself apart. But then Katherine shared a conversation she had the other day that sounded something like this. As Christ followers we are commanded to love our neighbor as yourself....it is the greatest commandment after all. If you can't love yourself for who Christ has created you to be then it's going to be awfully hard to love your neighbor unconditionally. When I fall short and fail to love me for who Christ has created me to be then that hinders me in loving others. I so do not want to be there. I want to love people big. With a love that is contagious and just causes people to smile! I do. I so desire to show the love of Christ to everyone I cross paths with. Does this happen all the time? Heavens no! But I'm not going to let the excuse "it's not easy" be a crutch or an option. So I challenge you today to love without fear and without the expectation of getting anything in return.

I Did It...

2009-09-15T10:34:00.000-05:00

Well I did it. I just registered to run my first 5K ever! I have to admit I am both a little nervous and excited now that I am for sure committed to run the race. I have been preparing now for around two weeks and have really enjoyed pushing myself & am looking forward to acomplishing something I never thought I would ever do!

Happy Tuesday Y'all!

2009-09-15T09:28:00.000-05:00

My small group started back up last week and can I just say how good it was to be back? We take a little break during the summer because of our crazy schedules & I didn't realize how much I missed our sweet time together until I was experiencing it last week! There is just something about getting together in a "safe place" to talk about Jesus & just what's going on in life! I am so blessed to be apart of this group of amazing gals....I can't believe we've been meeting for almost two years now!

We are reading the new Max Lucado book Fearless and I am really enjoying it! I am so that girl who will start a book, put it down, and NEVER finish it....let's see...there are around three "unfinished" books sitting on my nightstand right now! So I am super excited about reading this book in it's entirety! Can't wait to share with y'all all that I am going to learn through Tuesday nights and this book!

Pure Delight....

2009-09-08T09:22:00.000-05:00

The ladies in Team Kid are going through the Max Lucado study Experiencing the heart of Jesus. If you haven't done it yet and are looking for a new study pick this one up. It is amazing and full of some rich stuff y'all! I am loving it!! This week we started the chapter on Experiencing the joy of Jesus and one of the sections focused on defining sacred delight. I'll admit while doing the study I just breezed through this section but today when we were discussing we focused on finding delight in the scriptures. Not just when I read it but do I view it from the view point of delight?

Here is a little bit from the study....
"Delight is the look on Andrew's face at the lunch pail that never came up empty. Delight is the dozing wedding guests who drank the wine that had been water. Delight is Jesus walking through the waves as casually as you walk through curtains. Delight is a leper seeing a finger where there had been only a nub....a widow hosting a party with impossible things in crazy ways:healing the blind with spit, paying taxes with a coin found in a fish's mouth, and coming back from the dead disguised as a gardener."

I do.

I honestly believe with my whole heart that when Jesus performed these miracles He did it with pure delight. Not with a frown on His face or with a sour attitude. He found joy in everything He did...even the little things. I also think some of His delight was driven by the surprise in it. Think about it...He changed those peoples lives one step at a time in a way they didn't expect.

What an example we would be to a world of hurting people if we showed delight to others in the things that we do....even when it is hard. I can imagine the conversation that would go on in their heads.

I was challenged today to find delight in everything that I do. My actions, the relationships I am blessed with, my job, the scripture that I read...my list could go on and on. Thinking about it can't help but bring a smile to my face....all of the extra joy it's going to add....I'm super excited!

Psalm 126:3 "Yes, The Lord has done amazing things for us! What joy!"

Just Give me Jesus...

2009-08-31T09:19:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was one of those days that I am not proud of. And sadly I'm not making excuses for myself because I have none. This morning during my quiet time I found myself seeking some serious forgiveness from my precious Savior because yesterday everything that I was dealing with (that really isn't that big a deal) became a lot bigger than it really was. I let it effect everything and my day all of a sudden yesterday became all about me. If you know me well you know that this is not what I am about and I don't.....no let me rephrase I won't let it become about me. I turned into someone that I was not proud of and when it was pointed out to me that was really hard.

I don't want to be that girl who is all about herself. That girl who's emotions are based on her circumstances, who's joy is found in her situations, who finds her identity in her friends or her job. I desire to be a girl who is so in love with her Savior that His love and joy is all that people see when they come into contact with me. That He is enough for those days when I feel alone but I'm not because He is all that I need.

I learned some major things about myself yesterday. Things that are going to change because they make me more like Him and less about myself. I did, I fell short yesterday.....real short but thankfully His grace is sufficient and His mercies are new every morning. Today as I start my day He is enough, He is all I need, & He is all I want. Just give me Jesus.

Under God's Big Top is Coming Soon!!

2009-08-26T13:44:00.000-05:00

In two weeks we are starting a new theme in GiGL called Under God's Big Top! Our team is right in the thick of planning out this theme and I am super excited! I think the kids will LOVE it and it will be so fun to tell them about Jesus' love through this circus theme! More pictures to follow once we kick off on September 13th...I just wanted to give y'all a "sneak peek". My room is going to look something like these pictures below!!!

Summer Reflections...

2009-08-25T12:28:00.000-05:00

School started back yesterday which means to me summer 09' has officially come to a close. *sigh* Working at a church your summers fly by pretty fast going from camp to camp and doing three weeks of VBS! It is so much fun and has become my favorite season of this job! God did some big things this summer in my life and in the lives of many people around me. It was so neat to watch Him move in the lives of students at Beach Retreat & Next Level Camp and to have the blessing to start planting seeds in the lives of preschoolers during Vacation Bible School. To top it off I got to have a little R&R when I took a much needed vacation to Kennebunkport, Maine over the Forth of July! I hope you all had as an eventful summer as I did....until next year!!

Beautiful Maine...

Boston....

Next Level Camp.....

Vacation Bible School....

Beach Retreat 09'....

Next Level Camp 09'....

2009-08-20T11:18:00.000-05:00

Last week we took our fifth and six graders to Next Level Camp! It was my first time to go and I have to admit it was harder than I thought but so much fun! I had a cabin full of 17 sweet girls going into the 6th grade! It was so neat to watch God show up and do huge things in the lives of these kids! It was such a great way to end the summer with the Team Kid Staff and some of my closest friends! Here are some pictures from the week!!

Worship

Next Level Camp Friends!

Ultimate Frisbee

Ain't no party like the Holy Ghost party...super fun glow stick party to close out the week!

Morning Chapel..

Car Ride up there...

An Audience of One...

2009-08-19T12:56:00.000-05:00

When I was around three years old we were eating lunch at Kippy Lodge after church with all of our friends. All of a sudden there was a little girl on her tippy toes, dressed in her Sunday best, trying to reach the microphone to sing along with the band on stage. That little girl was me. I guess you could say I was born for the stage...my family says that any time there was one growing up I was on it. I can vividly remember my first "big girl" show at the age of six. Performing as one of the orphans in Annie....I guess you could say I was hooked. I have been performing ever since.

Last night I was having a conversation and was super convicted about my motives when it comes to being on stage. Performing in my opinion is one of the most vulnerable things a person can do. You are putting yourself out there for everyone watching to judge and form their own opinion....but am I doing what I do for them? That answer is so simple but difficult to practice....no. I am not performing for man but for an audience of one.

More than I'd like to admit I find myself getting caught up in what the adults in the room are thinking when doing GiGL. Did I hit every note, every step, the list could go on. But then I end up kicking myself because I have so lost sight of why I do what I do. The kids. It isn't about performing, or the adults in the room but showing & telling them about the love of my precious Jesus.

I do what I do becuase of what He's done for me. Because of His love, His grace, & to start laying the foundation in the lives of these kids by sharing His love each week in GiGL. I am not doing what I am doing for anyone's approval but His.

Galatians 1:10, “For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.”

Next Level Camp...

2009-08-08T08:57:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow we are headed to Carolina Creek for Next Level Camp....that is our fifth and sixth grade ministry here at Second Baptist. Please be praying that The Lord will move in the lives of the students, leaders, and staff! I've never been before so I am super excited about wrapping up my summer with this camp!

I'm Learning....

2009-08-06T16:06:00.000-05:00

To embrace my flaws*I'm going to let people down*even those I love the most in life*and that's OK*His timing really is perfect*His grace is enough*I'll never be perfect*To be thankful for refinement*I love big and that's alight*To serve others and put them before me*I don't always have to be busy....rest is good*I'm in desperate need of my Savior*The way the world says it has to be isn't always right*People can be down right mean*love them anyway*To zoom out*I'm a constant work in progress (Praise The Lord)*

Learning to Zoom Out...

2009-08-05T12:59:00.000-05:00

If you know me at all you know that I struggle with zooming out. I tend to get stuck on one little thing and find myself wrestling back and forth with whatever it is. By failing to zoom out I slowly find myself making that issue much bigger than it is. And just being real I find myself not trusting The Lord with my whole heart because I am wanting to hold on to and control what I am zooming in on. When in reality I need to rest in the sweet promise that my God is a good God who will give me everything I need. I mean He already has and He is continuing to do that everyday of my life. His plan is perfect and He is orchestrating every step in in His precious and perfect timing.

This road is not an easy one for me to walk down but as I'm learning to zoom out He is refining me in some major areas of my life. I am learning lessons right now that I know I will hold near to my heart and come back to throughout this journey He has me on. In these lessons He is molding me into the woman He wants me to be. I am so thankful that He's not done with me yet & continues to teach me these precious lessons as I walk this road with Him. I am also so thankful for the people He's placed in my life that are better at zooming out than I am. That they can be a constant reminder that it is so important to remember to zoom out and see what The Lord is doing in my life and that it is good & so much bigger than I could ever imagine. I know I learned that lesson today and am so thankful for it, thankful that He is doing a new thing in my life and refining me into the woman He wants me to be.

Authentic Relationships....

2009-08-02T12:09:00.000-05:00

This morning Chip Ingram was our guest pulpit speaker here at Second Baptist Church. I must confess that sometimes being on staff it is hard for me to concentrate during the sermon as my mind is going through my check list for 11:00 GiGL but this morning I was able to just sit, soak, and focus on what he was saying. He was talking about authentic community and how that doesn't just mean sitting in a Sunday School class or being apart of a small group. Yes those things help but they are not the core of authentic relationships. Here is how he defined authentic community. "Authentic community happens when the real you shows up, meets real needs, for the right reasons, in the right way." Simply put....authentic relationships are not about me, my needs, or waring a mask. They are real, raw, selfless, and so, much more.

Something I was convicted about this morning was wearing a mask & to let the love you show be sincere. I often find myself trying to be everything to everyone but The Lord is refining me of this very thing right now. I am learning that I can not be everything to everyone. That I am me and that's OK....take it or leave it and if you don't like it I'll be OK....really I will. If you know me well you know that six months ago I would not have said this but I am so thankful that I can now say that. Chip explained that if we wear a mask people can not see who we really are & people can't see who you really are if you are wearing a mask.

I do, I so badly want to be a girl who is authentic and real. Someone who shows the true love of her precious savior through the way she treats the people she comes into contact with everyday, and the love that they see is genuine and real. A girl who puts others needs in front of her own and who puts others first. And even though that love may not be given in return a girl who can still love. Authentic realationships is where its at and is where I desire to be. So I challenge you to walk the road of authentic relationships with me....somedays it may be harder than others but as Christians that is what we are called to do.

Cute Little Story...

2009-07-30T11:40:00.000-05:00

I know I talk a lot about how much I love my job. This sweet story is just one of the many reasons why I cherish what I do.....

This morning after Jhigh Bible study a Mom of one of my sweet preschoolers came up to me and asked if her daughter Taylor had told me about the conversation at the dinner table the other night. I told her that she hadn't so Mrs. Chapman proceeded to tell me that her four year old son has gotten his first crush.....and it's on me. She said out of the blue he looked up and said.... "Mom, I think Miss Joy is so beautiful & she's going to be my girlfriend one day." Is that not just precious? I just couldn't resist sharing...it certianly brightened my day!

Things I Love...

2009-07-29T14:00:00.000-05:00

So I have been racking my brain to come up with something amazing and great to blog about but keep coming up with nothing. I'll start what I think is going to be great post then come to a dead end. I just can't seem to get my thoughts on paper or the computer and that is driving me crazy because I love to write! Blogging has almost become therapeutic for me....I love sharing my thoughts and heart with the people who read my blog. Some of you may think that's weird and I guess it is a little bit but I truly do love it. Since I'm having "writers block" I wanted to make this blog simple and fun....to share with y'all some things that I love and cherish most in life...here we go....

*My Sweet Jesus*

Over these past six months I have truly come to understand the statement "He's all you need."

I feel like I have fallen in love with Him all over again and wouldn't trade that for anything in this world.

*My precious friends*

I'm sure you can tell by my blog that I love my precious friends. They are such blessings to me and my life!

*Monday Night Small Group*

What a blessing this group has been! We've been meeting for over two years now and have grown so close over time! I look forward to and cherish my time in the word each Monday night with these sweet girls!

*The Simple Things*

This lesson I have learned these past few weeks....I LOVE the simple things. Sitting out by the pool with the people you care about the most, a card from a friend, or a hug from a preschooler.... I am learning the simple things mean the most to me.

*My GiGL Team*

I have the greatest team. Period. I am crazy about them.

*My Job*

See above...I get to love on JHigh students & preschoolers while working along side an amazing staff!

Day's Two & Three...

2009-07-22T14:46:00.000-05:00

Here are some pictures from days two and three! So far VBS has been so much fun...God is doing huge things and blessing me like crazy!!!

Sweet Mallory & Me....

Super Spy & Super Sweet.....

Some of my GiGL team...

This is my amazing costume...the boots are my favorite! :)

Sweet Girls...

Day One....

2009-07-20T15:01:00.000-05:00

Today was day one of Vacation Bible School out at the West Campus! Let me tell y'all I am just so humbled by the place The Lord has me in today. I get to dress up, hang out with Jhigh students, love on Preschoolers all while singing & dancing. Um can you say dream job?

I will be updating my blog daily with fun pictures and stories throughout the week! I can't wait to see the greater things The Lord has in store this week at VBS and the Team Kid Ministry!

Embracing my Imperfections....

2009-07-11T23:38:00.000-05:00

I'm going to be honest today I have been fighting a hard battle & that one friends is the one of perfection.

Let's get real. I am not perfect. I know I'm not perfect. Then why do I put the pressure on myself to appear that way?

Maybe it's because I have a fear of disappointing the ones I love the most in my life. Because I'm afraid of failure. Or maybe deep down I just put that pressure on myself.....the pressure to be the girl who has it all together.

But you know what....I know the truth. I do, I really do. I know that every single day I don't even come close to being perfect. I am so thankful that I have been learning all about God's grace this past week in Bible study. It is so easy for us to extend grace to others and accept the precious grace of our Savior, but when it comes to extending grace to ourselves it's tough.

I'm learning that lesson today. Learning to extend grace to myself and to fail forward and not backwards. To view my imperfections as beautiful. As things that cause me to depend on my Savior even more because if I was perfect I wouldn't need Him. I will take flaws and imperfections any day because I would rather walk that road with Him then not walk with Him at all.

Vacation Bible School is Happening Y'all!!!

2009-07-09T10:44:00.001-05:00

Three exciting weeks of Vacation Bible School begins Monday at the Woodway Campus at 9:00! I am so excited about the adventure the Team Kid staff is about to start! I simply can't wait to see what God is going to do in and through us to reach the precious kids that will pass through the doors of three of our campuses. Not signed up yet....you still can! Here are the dates and times for all of the campuses.....you won't want to miss out on all of the fun!

Woodway: July 13-17th: 9:00-12:00
West: July 20th-24th: 9:00-12:00
North: July 27th-31st: 9:00-12:00

4th of July Weekend...

2009-07-07T10:54:00.001-05:00

I spent this past week in Boston and Maine for a little rest and relaxation! It was such a great trip to a part of the country I have never explored before! Let me just tell y'all....they are two of the neatest cities I have ever stepped foot in. The history of Boston was incredible and Kennebunkport....well, you just have to see it to believe it! It is the most beautiful/magical place ever! Here are some pictures from the trip...hope you enjoy them!!

Fun streets of Boston...

Where everyone knows your name....Cheers!

Duck tour around Boston...quack, quack!

Sunset on our last night....

Shopping on the streets on Kennebunkport....

Beautiful & breathtaking

His Grace is Enough...

2009-06-28T09:47:00.001-05:00

This week I have been learning all about God's grace. How precious it is. How beautiful it is. How sufficient it is. How undeserving I am of it.

I must confess sometimes it's so hard for me to wrap my mind around His grace. How every single day I fall short in my sin, with my wants & desires, yet every time I find myself running back into His arms He never seems to fail . My sweet Jesus is there waiting with open arms extending the gift of grace.

This morning I found myself asking myself one question....if everything in my life faded away would His grace be enough-would HE be enough to be my portion, my help, my EVERYTHING? That answer is yes but I'm going to be completely honest....some days it's harder for me to walk in this truth...that He is enough, that He is all I need. I find myself getting frustrated with God when He remains silent. However, I'm learning to be thankful for those times....because that silence causes me to seek shelter under His wings, to run hard & fast after Him, to be diligently on my knees, to seek His will for my life and not my own, & to just be still.

Sometimes I find myself wrestling with why He chooses to be silent. But you know what? If He didn't make us wait then don't you think we would be more tempted to lean on our own strength instead of His sweet grace? Maybe that's what it takes for us to realize His grace is sufficient enough.

So today I challenge you no matter where you are in the journey.....to stop and experience the sweet blessing of His grace. Thank Him that it is enough...that He is enough.

"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work."
2 Corinthians 9:8

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KIM!!!!

2009-06-25T09:48:00.001-05:00

Today is my best friend Kim's Birthday!!!! I am blessed beyond words by her sweet friendship!

We were roommates for three years until she just got recently married. When I graduated college the main prayer my mentors prayed for me was that The Lord would bless me with Godly girlfriends...oh my stars He has been so faithful to answer and has blown away all of my expectations in her friendship & the others He has blessed me with....He is such a faithful God!

Kim- I love you so much and hope you have the best Birthday ever! I am so blessed by your sweet friendship and can't wait for many more precious memories that we are going to get to share together...I love you!!

Pictures from Beach Retreat 09'....

2009-06-22T09:40:00.000-05:00

Here are some pictures from last week....enjoy!

Faded Glory!!!!

Mallory did this on her computer....they nicknamed themselves Joy Jr. & Kim Jr....thought it was precious and couldn't resist!

Dinner with the band...the girls where so cool while the guys hung out.....when they left you could have heard their screams down at the beach!!

Worship.....

Sweet Friends...

Rec time at the Beach...

Blessed....

2009-06-19T22:02:00.000-05:00

As I am reflecting on Beach Retreat 09' the one word that keeps on coming into my mind is blessed....

To have my Best Friend as my co-sponsor...
*Blessed*

To have the precious girls I had...
*Blessed*

To get to freely worship our sweet Jesus the way we did...
*Blessed*

To see lives changed...
*Blessed*

To see students come to know Christ for the first time...
*Blessed*

To show love & pray for a friend...
*Blessed*

To serve along side this amazing team...
*Blessed*

To see 1,000 students having silent sounds on the beach twice a day...
*Blessed*

To be a shoulder to cry on...
*Blessed*

To pour into the lives of students...
*Blessed*

To be the hands & feet of Jesus...
*Blessed(and so unworhty...)*

In Their Words....

2009-06-19T14:48:00.000-05:00

Here are the words my girls used to describe BR09...

*Hinds feet*amazing*spirit stick*Kim jr & Joy jr*praying* Dr.Young*Coach America*The jerk*Frosted Fakes*sound off* sisterhood*worship*neat*memories*Jhigh*Faded Glory*4902*
Jesus*silent sounds*life change*Psalm 18*surrender*fun* Name tags*Bible*growing*pool*
Beach*love*learning*Interviews*friendship*laughter*smiles*accomplishment*do*Michael*best leaders ever*praising* Fiestas*punked*awesome*impacting*mac & cheese*bathing suits*
Relationships*dip n dots*awesome*incredible*waves*family time*belly flop*sand*worship*and so much more.....

The Beach...

2009-06-16T07:42:00.000-05:00

This morning I got up a little early to walk on the beach & have some "alone time". I just haven't felt like myself since I got to South Padre & have been able to "fake it" & I just knew that I needed that time. Don't get me wrong--I LOVE being here & am doing what I have a passion for-plus I have the most amazing condo a sponsor could ask for I just needed to be alone with The Lord-just Him & I.

I started walking & listening to a podcast that was about whe Jesus calmed the storm-half way through I felt like He was telling me to stop. I listened to the rest of that podcast & put myself in the shoes of the diciples on that boat...

Wow--the wind was blowing, the waves where crashing, the diciples were scared but you know what-Jesus calmed the storm & He never stopped watching His friends. He watched them while He was praying from the mountain the same way He never took His eyes off of Peter as He told him to walk on water & come to Him.

Isn't it great to know that no matter what He's watching us & orchastrating every step in our lives.

JHigh Beach Retreat!

2009-06-14T00:12:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow...(well in a few hours) I am headed to South Padre Island with over 1,000 Junior High students! Words can not express how excited & expectent I am of the BIG things God is going to do this week at the beach! Please be praying for the students hearts. That students with hard hearts would be softened, that students who have never experienced love before would, & most of all those who don't know our precious Savior would enter into a personal relationship with Him for the first time! Also pray for the staff & leaders-that God would use us through Him! I know that we all covet your prayers while we are gone!

You can follow us on the Beach Retreat Blog under my blog roll-I'll try to update some too!

College World Series!

2009-06-12T12:09:00.000-05:00

The College World Series starts this weekend! I love sports & college baseball is one of my favorites to watch! I think it's because while I was in college I watched some close friends win the College World Series while playing at both Texas & Rice. These guys are playing because they love to play-it is out of pure love for the sport which is the best thing to watch-tune in if you have the chance!

Satisfy Us....

2009-06-11T10:11:00.000-05:00

"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love,that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days."
Psalm 90:14

I cherish my mornings on my porch with The Lord. To gain His wisdom, feast on His word, to have the opportunity to be still and listen.....I confess sometimes it's easier than others...to be still.

So I leave my house filled up, satisfied, ready to face the day but sometimes it seems when I hit my desk I already feel empty. The converstaion in my head goes something like this...Um Lord...it's only 9:30. I think to myself....what happened? I spent time in your word, I diligently prayed, then why Lord have I already fallen short? Some days I am quicker to show His love and on others I find myself an emotional mess.

My favorite part of that verse is that we may sing for joy. I so badly want to sing and be glad in all my days. I want to be remembered as a girl who was joyful at all times. And not just a fake joy-a genuine, real, authentic joy that shines through even when I feel like I am on a rollercoaster ride of life's ups and downs-I so badly want to exhibit a joy that is contagious because the joy of The Lord is truly my strength. I believe with all my heart that in order to find joy we have to be thankful. When I choose to be thankful I find myself viewing things differently. It's a choice. If I find myself thankful for my job that long check list of to do things really isn't all that bad. When I am thankful for those who have hurt me-love abounds. So today I challenge you to be thankful for all the things in your life no matter where you are in the journey.....the good, the bad, & the ugly. While letting Him satisfy you along the way.

Grab life by the mane....

2009-06-10T17:58:00.000-05:00

"Quit living as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death. Grab life by the mane. Set God-sized goals. Pursue God-ordained passions. Go after a dream that is destined to fail without divine intervention. Keep asking questions. Keep making mistakes. Keep seeking God. Stop pointing out problems and become part of the solution. Stop repeating the past and start creating the future. Stop playing it safe and start taking risks. Expand your horizons. Accumulate experiences. Consider the lilies. Enjoy the journey. Find every excuse you can to celebrate everything you can. Live like today is the first day and last day of your life. Don't let what's wrong with you keep you from worshipping what's right with God. Burn sinful bridges. Blaze a new trail. Criticize by creating. Worry less about what people think and more about what God thinks. Don't try to be who you're not. Be yourself. Laugh at yourself. Quit holding out. Quit holding back. Quit running away. Chase the lion."

- Mark Batterson

Greater Things are Yet to Come...

2009-06-10T09:14:00.000-05:00

Yesterday as I was driving the song God of This City came on the radio. As I heard the intro music come on it literally sent chills up my spine and I looked down to find goosebumps on my arm.

Let me explain.....our Student Ministry is right in the midst of Beach Retreat. This is a week they take High School and Junior High students to Gulf Shores & South Padre to unplug for the week.

Our High School Ministry is in Gulf Shores right now and I keep on hearing all about the amazing things The Lord is doing there! I am headed to South Padre next week and am very expectant of what The Lord is going to do in the lives of the students, leaders, and staff.

It's funny looking back in my prayer journal....I prayed almost a year ago that The Lord would give me a heart for Junior High students and oh my stars has He been faithful to answer! My heart for these students is overflowing with love. I desire to pour into them with everything that is in me. To inspire & encourage, all while telling them about the love of our precious Savior. I so badly want to be the hands & feet of Jesus to these precious students & again am so humbled that He has in-trusted me with these students.

I believe with my whole heart that greater things are yet to come for these students & the 210 Student Ministry. I can't wait to hear about the big things The Lord has done on the beach in Gulf Shores and then get to witness it first hand next week in South Padre!

Called to love even when it's not easy....

2009-06-08T09:24:00.000-05:00

I love it when The Lord meets you right where you are. Last night my sweet friend Kara called me and said that I'd been on her heart all day and she had been praying for me. Our conversation eventually lead to the sermon that was preached yesterday at the 11:11 service.

I heard Dr. Young's version of 1 Peter but Dave Riggle's was a little different. Kara shared with me two major points from his sermon that really hit home.

"If someone offends or attacks you-it's natural to defend yourself. Self-restraint is strength-it's supernatural strength. It's radical love lived out."

Let's get real...throughout life people are going to step on our toes but we have a choice....to retaliate or show them love. Am I saying that's easy....oh my stars no! But as Christians it's what we are called to do & praise The Lord He gives us that strength because I know I couldn't do it without Him.

Dave then told a story about a soldier who was picked on over and over again by his commander. When it was done did he retaliate? Nope-he went and shined his boots....he served his commander after being humiliated by him in front of his whole squad. When the commander came to his soldier asking him why the soldier looked at him and said these powerful words..."Christ put a love in my heart for you."

Then he challenged the congregation to love and serve people even when they are unkind to them. (I'm going to unleash, I'm giving them to You.) that we can let go because our precious Savior can take it. To release them to the righteous judge the one who can handle it.

Umm I'm pretty sure the ONLY way to do this is through my sweet Jesus. Thankfully we do not have to walk this journey alone and through the grace we have been given we are able to extend that grace to others even when it's not easy.

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ Jesus forgave you."
Ephesians 4:32