Joy in the Journey

I actually wrote this four years ago when this movie came out but never published it. I’m not really sure why I didn’t publish it, but as I reread it today I realized just how relevant it still is. There have since been several sequels and countless other productions in our culture that reflect the same attitude toward sex. I hope you hear my heart in this, because that has not changed. Love to all. So "50 Shades of Grey" came out on the big screen today. And my Facebook has blown up about it. On one hand, I've got friends who were eagerly awaiting it's release. On another are my Christian friends who are unabashadly proclaiming it's poisonous nature (with which I am in total agreement with). And on the other end of the spectrum are the people, Christian or not, who are telling the Christians to stop judging, butt out, and/or recognize that "all sin is the same" etc. etc. I've read so many articles, tweets, blogs, and statuses on the matter that I...

Yesterday the world said goodbye to actor/comedian Robin Williams. He was beloved and renowned for his work in film, television, and stand-up comedy. He appeared in a number of my own personal favorite films and his presence in popular culture will be immensely missed. There is speculation that his death was at his own hand and that he suffered from depression. It's hard to believe that a man who spent his life and career bringing laughter and joy to the lives of millions of people was fighting such a dark battle. But, then again, we only know what we see on TV. In the wake of this unspeakable tragedy social media has exploded with articles, statuses, and tweets on the subject. Whether they've posted about his iconic characters or information pertaining to depression, he's been everywhere. In Christian circles, the conversation turns to whether or not he knew the Lord, of which we can only speculate. Whatever way you slice it, this man's death cannot be called any...

I have never been so exhausted in my life. I am mentally, physically, and emotionally worn out. I'm in a place right now where I can actually feel the spiritual warfare going on around me. Whoever said that following Jesus would fill your life with sunshine, rainbows, and lollipops straight up lied. This is not something that is news to me. I've never bought into "the Prosperity Gospel".  Scripture clearly indicates that we have an adversary and that we are to be on the lookout. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.  1 Peter 5:8 And here lately, I'm really feeling like the prey. My quiet time lately has been all about trusting the Lord in all of my trials. God is holy and sovereign and does all things well. I have to believe that to get through the day sometimes. I have to believe that He's working and moving in the most incredible way or else the adversary would not be fig...

It has been freezing and snowing nonstop for days now! Between being out for Christmas break, the snow and cold, and having strep throat I have personally not been on my normal routine for over a month now and it's driving me a little insane! We've been on a two-hour delay at work all week and my poor kiddos haven't been on their routines either. Anyone who's spent a good amount of time with children under the age of 5 can tell you that those kids need  routine and structure. What happens when they don't get it? They go a little crazy. And it's okay. One of the best parts about my job is the unpredictability of it all. I love those moments in the classroom where things aren't exactly going according to plan. They make for the best teachable moments. So with all this snow and cold I decided to venture away from our friendship theme for the day and go back to a few weeks ago when we talked about snow. The bin for our discovery table is removable so I too...

In my last post I mentioned that I had found some amazing re-do opportunities on my Goodwill trip that day. Life has been so busy for us that I am just now finding time to sit down to post about one of the other treasures that I made my own. First, let's check out the before picture. I wasn't sure what color I would paint it or what I would use it for but I have a thing for Mason Jars so I decided I would get it and find a purpose later. The lightbulb went off two days later and I decided I could use the jars for Boomer's treats! So off I went to Lowe's to look for some paint (I get the small paint samples for less than $3) and I found the perfect color. After painting I saw that it was still lacking something. I wanted to put something on the sides but I wasn't sure what. So I went to Hobby Lobby and found the cutest scrapbook paper! I only needed one piece and they had a half off sale that day so I only paid 24 cents for it! I found a bone templ...

I love secondhand shopping. Thrift stores, yard sales, and all that. I love the deals and the treasures that I can find. You just never know what is waiting for you! After dropping sis (Ashley) off at a friend's birthday party today I decided to stop by Goodwill on my way home. I've been feeling a little crafty lately and wanted to see if I could find a project to work on. I found four! I just couldn't wait to get started so after having dinner with some sweet friends I decided to begin  working on one. I only paid $2.50 for the tray and $0.58 for the bottle of paint at Hobby Lobby. I was originally just going to paint it but I found a liner that I had saved from a tumbler that had broken in my craft box and just knew that it would be perfect for the tray! I had to do several coats of white paint to cover up the blue but a bit was still visible. I think it gives it a distressed look. Then I used spray adhesive to attach the liner and modge-podged the tray. I can't wait...