Last night as I was reading another blog, I came across one of the most awesome quotes!
To say no is to protect what you've said yes to.
If you have ever taken on too much or made yourself feel guilty for saying no, please go read the full article here. It's not very long and it is really incredible!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Baby update
Last Wednesday we had our second prenatal appointment. They did another ultrasound and the baby is SO much bigger than he/she was last time! I know that my peanut is growing everyday, but seeing the difference in size on the screen made it so much more real. The picture that we got is not the most perfect, but in person the details were much easier to see. Once I make it over to Hailey's, I will scan it in and upload it here. We got to hear a very strong heartbeat (170bpm!) and were even more thrilled than the first time we heard it. So far, the baby appears to be healthy and we go back for our next appointment the beginning of January. Please continue to pray for a healthy pregnancy and baby!
While I still feel like I'm a little in shock most of the time, it's definitely starting to feel more real. I'm sure that a large part of that is my acceptance of elastic waist pants. By acceptance, I mean that I was forced into them by my unborn child who is not happy with my rubber-banded regular slacks. I made them work for as long as possible but as I near the end of my first trimester I realize that they are a thing of the past. I am equal parts excited and annoyed by this. Excited because I know that the baby is growing and healthy. Annoyed because I just lost a bunch of weight and the thought of putting it back on just makes me cringe. I know that it's the baby and that it's so normal, but I also know that it's going to be hard to watch the scale climb.
Okay, enough rambling for today. Hope you all have a wonderful, blessed day!
While I still feel like I'm a little in shock most of the time, it's definitely starting to feel more real. I'm sure that a large part of that is my acceptance of elastic waist pants. By acceptance, I mean that I was forced into them by my unborn child who is not happy with my rubber-banded regular slacks. I made them work for as long as possible but as I near the end of my first trimester I realize that they are a thing of the past. I am equal parts excited and annoyed by this. Excited because I know that the baby is growing and healthy. Annoyed because I just lost a bunch of weight and the thought of putting it back on just makes me cringe. I know that it's the baby and that it's so normal, but I also know that it's going to be hard to watch the scale climb.
Okay, enough rambling for today. Hope you all have a wonderful, blessed day!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Thanksgiving
Good morning! I hope that you all had a wonderful holiday weekend. Mine was really wonderful and somehow not long enough at the same time. Thanksgiving was a little different this year since ALL of our family lives out of town and no one could travel. We met my in-laws halfway and had a great meal together at Cracker Barrel though. Not quite the traditional feast but it was nice that we could still get together for part of the day. The rest of the day was spent on the couch with my honey watching football and napping. All in all a good day!
Friday I got up way too early to drive up to Elberton for a little Christmas shopping. Usually I'm so pumped and ready to go but I really struggled to stay motivated this year! We hit several stores and I was doing okay but then we went to Sams. Do you know what they have in Sams? Furniture. Recliners, more specifically. Bradley and I found them pretty quickly and promptly fell asleep. I'm sure that people looked at us funny but they didn't bother me at all! It was exactly what I needed to get through the rest of the day:)
Sunday I got to hang out with my friend Kris who was in town from California. I met her fiancé, Bryan, and he was so wonderful. The three of us met Scotlon for lunch and then shopped and just enjoyed spending time together. We found some awesome sales and loaded up the back of my car with packages. I know it sounds crazy but I forget how much I miss her until I see her again. I really wish that we could see each other more often! Especially with the baby coming next summer.
Speaking of the baby, all is well so far! I am 11 weeks and moving right along. I haven't gained any weight yet but my pants are definitely getting tighter! I only have a couple of pairs now that I can still wear comfortably. Our next doctors appointment is on Wednesday and I'm really looking forward to it. I can't wait to hear my peanut's heartbeat again! I'll be sure to post again after and let you know what they say.
I know that this has been a really long post so thanks for sticking with me. I hope that you have an incredibly blessed day!
Love,
Stephanie
Friday I got up way too early to drive up to Elberton for a little Christmas shopping. Usually I'm so pumped and ready to go but I really struggled to stay motivated this year! We hit several stores and I was doing okay but then we went to Sams. Do you know what they have in Sams? Furniture. Recliners, more specifically. Bradley and I found them pretty quickly and promptly fell asleep. I'm sure that people looked at us funny but they didn't bother me at all! It was exactly what I needed to get through the rest of the day:)
Sunday I got to hang out with my friend Kris who was in town from California. I met her fiancé, Bryan, and he was so wonderful. The three of us met Scotlon for lunch and then shopped and just enjoyed spending time together. We found some awesome sales and loaded up the back of my car with packages. I know it sounds crazy but I forget how much I miss her until I see her again. I really wish that we could see each other more often! Especially with the baby coming next summer.
Speaking of the baby, all is well so far! I am 11 weeks and moving right along. I haven't gained any weight yet but my pants are definitely getting tighter! I only have a couple of pairs now that I can still wear comfortably. Our next doctors appointment is on Wednesday and I'm really looking forward to it. I can't wait to hear my peanut's heartbeat again! I'll be sure to post again after and let you know what they say.
I know that this has been a really long post so thanks for sticking with me. I hope that you have an incredibly blessed day!
Love,
Stephanie
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Prayer Request
I have a quick prayer request for you this morning! A good friend of mine is having surgery at 1:00 this afternoon. She's hoping that if everything goes well it will ease her pain and help enable her to have the baby she so desperately desires. I can only imagine how she is feeling right now. I was incredibly nervous the morning of my surgery and I know that she is as well. Please lift her up today and pray that God will calm her nerves, giving her peace about the surgery and the days following.
Thank you!
Thank you!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Happy Veteran's Day
To all the veteran's and the families of veteran's, thank you. Thank you for your service, your sacrifice that enables us to sleep in peace at night. Thank you for your willingness to do whatever it takes to ensure that America remains a free nation. One day each year to celebrate and honor you is simply not enough. Every day of the year should be a celebration of the men and women who make our country great. Our world is a better place because of you.
Take the time today to thank a veteran for his/her service and say a prayer for the families of those no longer with us.
Take the time today to thank a veteran for his/her service and say a prayer for the families of those no longer with us.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Baby's 1st picture
I don't have a lot of time to write tonight, but I wanted to post this picture from our appointment yesterday. Everything looks great so far! Thank you all for your prayers as we continue this new journey.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Surprise!
I know it's been a long time since I posted last and I swear that I have a good reason. I have been asleep before 9 every night for the last couple of weeks which makes it hard to do anything but eat dinner and crash. Oh, and did I mention I nap for 30 minutes when I first get home? At this point, you might be wondering if I'm sick. No, I'm not sick...but I am having a baby!
We just found out a couple of weeks ago and are so thrilled to be adding to our family. I'm due next June so we've got a little ways to go yet. So far, I've been feeling great other than being sleepy all the time. I'm praying really hard that it stays that way!
My next doctors appointment is Tuesday and I'm hoping to have ultrasound pictures to post. Until then, please pray that baby and I stay healthy and that we don't drive Scotlon crazy with the extra hormones:)
Love,
Stephanie
We just found out a couple of weeks ago and are so thrilled to be adding to our family. I'm due next June so we've got a little ways to go yet. So far, I've been feeling great other than being sleepy all the time. I'm praying really hard that it stays that way!
My next doctors appointment is Tuesday and I'm hoping to have ultrasound pictures to post. Until then, please pray that baby and I stay healthy and that we don't drive Scotlon crazy with the extra hormones:)
Love,
Stephanie
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
The Only Way
As I have mentioned previously, our Bible study group has grown by leaps and bounds since we started! Last week one of the ladies that joined the study trusted Jesus to be her savior! She and a couple of friends wrote the following poem and I just had to share it with you. Please continue to pray that God blesses our lives and helps us to reach others through this study.
The Only Way!
Go ahead, put up your wall
Rest assured, one day He’ll call
And when your wall starts to crumble
Bowing your head, feeling so humble
So broken hearted, you begin to pray
On your knees he hears you say
Forgive me Lord, Save my soul
Heal me now, make me whole
Take away my sins and help me grow
Let your Holy Spirit flow
Thank you Lord for this day
Saved by Grace, The Only Way!
The Only Way!
Go ahead, put up your wall
Rest assured, one day He’ll call
And when your wall starts to crumble
Bowing your head, feeling so humble
So broken hearted, you begin to pray
On your knees he hears you say
Forgive me Lord, Save my soul
Heal me now, make me whole
Take away my sins and help me grow
Let your Holy Spirit flow
Thank you Lord for this day
Saved by Grace, The Only Way!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Pumpkin Patch
I just had to post these super cute pictures of Hannah at the pumpkin patch this weekend. I can't believe how big she's getting!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
90 days
A few months ago (90 days to be exact) I finally got my butt in gear and started a new Bible study. A week later, I met with an old friend who was struggling with the same things I was, and she decided to join in the study as well. We prayed that God would turn our hearts towards Him. We prayed that we would influence our families in a positive way. We thanked Him for welcoming us with open arms when we came running back. We praised God for each other and talked about the great changes we expected to see over the next 90 days. Neither of us could have ever imagined what was up ahead.
In the last 90 days:
*Each of our lives and our relationships have changed radically.
*We got out of our comfort zones and obeyed when the Holy Spirit led us to do things we weren't crazy about.
*She led her daughter to Christ!
*Our study grew from 1 to 2. And then to 4. And then to 8. We start our next book on Sunday and we're adding more to the group daily. We would love to have you join us! E-mail me and I'll send you all the information you need.
*Three offices full of women have started prayer groups to lift each other up instead of tearing each other down. Can you imagine what a difference this alone could make if every office full of women did this?
I have never been as broken, as humbled as I am right now. As honored, that God choose me to be a part of this. With all my sin, all my junk, all my baggage, He still sees potential here. How is it possible that He loves me so much after all the ways I've disappointed Him? And still, He rains down infinite grace and mercy. For years I've been saying that I trust Him, that I love Him, that I understand that He died for me; for the first time in my life, I really "get" it. It's a heart knowledge, not just a head knowledge. I am at a place in my walk that I've never been before and I know that I will never be the same again. I never want to be.
I covet your prayers as we start this next study. Pray that God will ready our hearts for the message He wants us to hear. Pray that as we catch fire we will ignite the people around us. Pray that our actions, our lives, will glorify Him in all that we do. Pray that God will move in our lives in a way that we could never imagine.
Thank you Lord. For more than words can even begin to express, thank you.
In the last 90 days:
*Each of our lives and our relationships have changed radically.
*We got out of our comfort zones and obeyed when the Holy Spirit led us to do things we weren't crazy about.
*She led her daughter to Christ!
*Our study grew from 1 to 2. And then to 4. And then to 8. We start our next book on Sunday and we're adding more to the group daily. We would love to have you join us! E-mail me and I'll send you all the information you need.
*Three offices full of women have started prayer groups to lift each other up instead of tearing each other down. Can you imagine what a difference this alone could make if every office full of women did this?
I have never been as broken, as humbled as I am right now. As honored, that God choose me to be a part of this. With all my sin, all my junk, all my baggage, He still sees potential here. How is it possible that He loves me so much after all the ways I've disappointed Him? And still, He rains down infinite grace and mercy. For years I've been saying that I trust Him, that I love Him, that I understand that He died for me; for the first time in my life, I really "get" it. It's a heart knowledge, not just a head knowledge. I am at a place in my walk that I've never been before and I know that I will never be the same again. I never want to be.
I covet your prayers as we start this next study. Pray that God will ready our hearts for the message He wants us to hear. Pray that as we catch fire we will ignite the people around us. Pray that our actions, our lives, will glorify Him in all that we do. Pray that God will move in our lives in a way that we could never imagine.
Thank you Lord. For more than words can even begin to express, thank you.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Anniversary Weekend
For our anniversary back in May, my wonderful husband got me a pair of silver heels that I had been lusting after for months. Along with my new shoes he got tickets to go see Les Miserables at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta. I love gifts that you get to redeem later because it just draws out the excitement! Since the doctor cleared me last week, I was even able to wear my new heels to the show.
As always, the show was incredible. Les Mis is one of my favorite stories and it never fails to bring tears to my eyes.
After the show, we drove over to Lenox and had a wonderful dinner at Prime. It was, by far, the best steak that I've ever had in my life. Just for kicks, I thought I would see if I could cut it with my fork...and it cut just fine. It was that tender. To top it off, right now all of their steaks are ½ price between 5:00-6:15p.m. If you live in the Atlanta area and get the opportunity, go eat there. You won't be sorry!
Full, fat, & happy we wandered around Lenox, lusting a lot, buying a little. The highlight for me, was the trip into Lush. I've been buying online for years but this was my first trip into an actual store and it was heavenly. They have the best bath/shower/skin care/etc. products I've ever used. They are a little pricey but totally worth it. They have bath bombs with rose petals in them so you're floating in petals when the salts disintegrate...what girl wouldn't love that?
We ended the night snuggled up on the coach with a good movie, tired but incredibly happy. The perfect way to end the perfect day.
As always, the show was incredible. Les Mis is one of my favorite stories and it never fails to bring tears to my eyes.
After the show, we drove over to Lenox and had a wonderful dinner at Prime. It was, by far, the best steak that I've ever had in my life. Just for kicks, I thought I would see if I could cut it with my fork...and it cut just fine. It was that tender. To top it off, right now all of their steaks are ½ price between 5:00-6:15p.m. If you live in the Atlanta area and get the opportunity, go eat there. You won't be sorry!
Full, fat, & happy we wandered around Lenox, lusting a lot, buying a little. The highlight for me, was the trip into Lush. I've been buying online for years but this was my first trip into an actual store and it was heavenly. They have the best bath/shower/skin care/etc. products I've ever used. They are a little pricey but totally worth it. They have bath bombs with rose petals in them so you're floating in petals when the salts disintegrate...what girl wouldn't love that?
We ended the night snuggled up on the coach with a good movie, tired but incredibly happy. The perfect way to end the perfect day.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Gwinnett County Fair
This past weekend Bradley participated in the cow show at the Gwinnett County Fair and we all went to show our support. I have never been to the fair before so it was fun to see what they're all about. The food (for me at least), really was one of the highlights. But then again, I have an unnatural addiction to funnel cakes:) They're just so darn yummy!
At this point I need to offer an apology to the man in front of us because he was wearing a navy blue shirt and there was a lot of powdered sugar on our funnel cake. If it had been anyone but Hailey and me, this would not have been a huge issue. However, if you've ever sat next to us ANYWHERE, you know that we can not just shut up and keep our comments in. So, we're desperately trying not to laugh because that blows the sugar everywhere, which just makes us laugh harder. Needless to say, we were very unsuccessful at holding our laughter in. I'm sure that the man in front of us took his shirt off that night very puzzled about the coating of white dust on the back.
There were many more wonderful moments but this post is getting long already! I included some pictures from the weekend. Enjoy!
Gramps...I'm not so sure about this cow business
Okay, maybe they're not so scary after all!
At this point I need to offer an apology to the man in front of us because he was wearing a navy blue shirt and there was a lot of powdered sugar on our funnel cake. If it had been anyone but Hailey and me, this would not have been a huge issue. However, if you've ever sat next to us ANYWHERE, you know that we can not just shut up and keep our comments in. So, we're desperately trying not to laugh because that blows the sugar everywhere, which just makes us laugh harder. Needless to say, we were very unsuccessful at holding our laughter in. I'm sure that the man in front of us took his shirt off that night very puzzled about the coating of white dust on the back.
There were many more wonderful moments but this post is getting long already! I included some pictures from the weekend. Enjoy!
Gramps...I'm not so sure about this cow business
Okay, maybe they're not so scary after all!
Uncle B is super excited about his turn in the ring
Aunt Sam and Aunt Stephie love me cause' I'm so cute!
All this excitement made me so sleepy!
Friday, September 19, 2008
Huge Praise
I have a HUGE PRAISE that I can't wait to share! This morning I had another appointment with the orthopedist; I am thrilled to say that I am no longer limited to my tennis shoes! I will still need to wear my brace for exercise or if I'm going to be on uneven terrain but for everyday life, I am rid of it! Praise God!
For the first time in six months I will be driving with my right foot again. I will be free to wear cute shoes again (I am going this weekend to invest in some flats since all my shoes are at least 3 inches). I will be able to shave off 5 minutes in the mornings that I used to spend lacing up a brace. I will feel like myself again. I am so excited that I can hardly stand it.
A huge thanks to all of you for your continued prayers and support over the last several months. I appreciate them, and you, more than I can say! I hope that you all have a wonderful Friday!!!
For the first time in six months I will be driving with my right foot again. I will be free to wear cute shoes again (I am going this weekend to invest in some flats since all my shoes are at least 3 inches). I will be able to shave off 5 minutes in the mornings that I used to spend lacing up a brace. I will feel like myself again. I am so excited that I can hardly stand it.
A huge thanks to all of you for your continued prayers and support over the last several months. I appreciate them, and you, more than I can say! I hope that you all have a wonderful Friday!!!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Wonderful Women
I got this from a good friend today and it made me laugh. I hope that it brightens your day as well!
"Whatever you give a woman, she's going to multiply. If you give her sperm, she'll give you a baby. If you give her a house, she'll give you a home. If you give her groceries, she'll give you a meal. If you give her a smile, she'll give you her heart. She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her. So, if you give her any crap, you will receive a ton of crap in return."
Love and appreciate all the women in your life!!!
"Whatever you give a woman, she's going to multiply. If you give her sperm, she'll give you a baby. If you give her a house, she'll give you a home. If you give her groceries, she'll give you a meal. If you give her a smile, she'll give you her heart. She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her. So, if you give her any crap, you will receive a ton of crap in return."
Love and appreciate all the women in your life!!!
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Honored
This morning it was such a nice surprise to see that I received two awards! An old friend and fellow blogger passed along both the "Friendship" and "Kind Blogger" awards. Sarah has been such a good friend for as many years as I can remember and I am honored that she thought of me when passing along these awards. In the spirit of the awards I will pass them along to 5 people and hope that it brightens their day as much as it did mine!
1. Ruth Z~We met less than a year ago and she has grown to be one of my dearest friends so quickly!
2. Andre~My sweet friend and accountability partner.
3. Josh Roberts~ Technically I am better friends with his wife Julie, but he is awesome! His work with Connect Rome is so exciting.
4. Abby Fernandez~ An old friend that I would love to catch up with very soon:)
5. Allison~ I met her through Stampin Up! and will always be grateful that she shared her glue with me on that first day.
Last but certainly not least, I would like to honor my best friend Hailey. She doesn't have a blog but she is the most kind-hearted, generous, beautiful, funny woman I know. She is the kind of friend who will paint with you until the wee hours of the morning even though she hates to paint. The kind who will make you laugh until tears are streaming down your face and you are dangerously close to wetting yourself. The kind who will hold your hand because she knows you need to feel like you are not alone. I could go on forever and it still wouldn't do her justice. She is simply my Goose.
I am so very blessed by all of my friends and family. Thank you all for being so wonderful!
1. Ruth Z~We met less than a year ago and she has grown to be one of my dearest friends so quickly!
2. Andre~My sweet friend and accountability partner.
3. Josh Roberts~ Technically I am better friends with his wife Julie, but he is awesome! His work with Connect Rome is so exciting.
4. Abby Fernandez~ An old friend that I would love to catch up with very soon:)
5. Allison~ I met her through Stampin Up! and will always be grateful that she shared her glue with me on that first day.
Last but certainly not least, I would like to honor my best friend Hailey. She doesn't have a blog but she is the most kind-hearted, generous, beautiful, funny woman I know. She is the kind of friend who will paint with you until the wee hours of the morning even though she hates to paint. The kind who will make you laugh until tears are streaming down your face and you are dangerously close to wetting yourself. The kind who will hold your hand because she knows you need to feel like you are not alone. I could go on forever and it still wouldn't do her justice. She is simply my Goose.
I am so very blessed by all of my friends and family. Thank you all for being so wonderful!
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Water, Water, Everywhere
So...I'm a few days later than I meant to be on this post, but at least it's getting up! We have company coming this weekend and I have been a crazy person trying to get everything clean and organized. I know you're shocked and amazed that my house isn't already sparkling...ha!
We were all set to go out of town this past weekend and on Friday morning my wonderful hubby threw on some last minute laundry. I was just thinking that the washing machine was louder than normal when the water started POURING out from underneath the door. Did I open the door and see why? Nope. I froze on the spot and yelled for my husband.
I am such a girl.
He comes running in and found the hose on the back of the washer unattached from the wall and spraying water EVERYWHERE. He stops the washer and looks out at me (still standing in the same spot, ankle deep in water) and says, "Hey babe, can you maybe get me some towels?"
That wonderful calmness in the middle of a crisis is one of his best qualities. If you haven't picked up on it yet, I am not so great in a crisis. Actually, that's not true. I am really good when other people are having a crisis...I just can't handle my own!
None the less, we mopped everything up and now have a sparkling clean laundry room. Not quite the way I would have kicked off my Labor Day weekend, but when I think about how much worse it would have been if we had left the house after starting the washer, it makes me thankful that we caught it quickly.
Just one more way God is reminding me to count my blessings and not to sweat the small stuff!
We were all set to go out of town this past weekend and on Friday morning my wonderful hubby threw on some last minute laundry. I was just thinking that the washing machine was louder than normal when the water started POURING out from underneath the door. Did I open the door and see why? Nope. I froze on the spot and yelled for my husband.
I am such a girl.
He comes running in and found the hose on the back of the washer unattached from the wall and spraying water EVERYWHERE. He stops the washer and looks out at me (still standing in the same spot, ankle deep in water) and says, "Hey babe, can you maybe get me some towels?"
That wonderful calmness in the middle of a crisis is one of his best qualities. If you haven't picked up on it yet, I am not so great in a crisis. Actually, that's not true. I am really good when other people are having a crisis...I just can't handle my own!
None the less, we mopped everything up and now have a sparkling clean laundry room. Not quite the way I would have kicked off my Labor Day weekend, but when I think about how much worse it would have been if we had left the house after starting the washer, it makes me thankful that we caught it quickly.
Just one more way God is reminding me to count my blessings and not to sweat the small stuff!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Quick Update
I know I've been a slacker lately with the blogging. I promise that I will write again very soon though! I just wanted to post a quick update on my foot for today. I went back to the Ortho and everything seems to be progressing well. I got to ditch that awful boot and am back in a brace and tennis shoes.
Only a month or so of therapy and I should be back to my normal, stiletto wearing, self!
Praise Jesus!!!
Only a month or so of therapy and I should be back to my normal, stiletto wearing, self!
Praise Jesus!!!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Exciting New Business
After much prayer and contemplation, I have signed up to be a Demonstrator with Stampin' Up!. Over the last year I have absolutely fallen in love with stamping. Just about every free minute I have is spent elbow deep in ink and paper now. So, if there's a way that I can spend time doing what I love and make a little money at the same time, I don't see a downside!
Please pray that as I dive in head first, God will be glorified in all I do. I'm sure that as I meet new people, He will open the door for me to share his love with others. I'm really excited to see what He has in store up ahead.
Oh, and since this does involve a lot of speaking in front of others, if you wanted to offer up a prayer that I don't throw up, those would also be much appreciated :)
Have a blessed day!
Please pray that as I dive in head first, God will be glorified in all I do. I'm sure that as I meet new people, He will open the door for me to share his love with others. I'm really excited to see what He has in store up ahead.
Oh, and since this does involve a lot of speaking in front of others, if you wanted to offer up a prayer that I don't throw up, those would also be much appreciated :)
Have a blessed day!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Obedience
There are moments in life where the greatness of God overwhelms my heart. Times that I see His plan unfolding in front of me as I stand in awe of Him. Tears run down my face as I write this because my heart is too full of joy to hold it in.
One of my dear friends led her daughter to Christ this morning.
So many little steps of obedience, by many people, led up to this moment. So often I don't understand where God is going at all. And there are many times I won't ever understand what His purpose was in a certain situation. I'm getting to the point where that's okay though. I don't have to know what He is doing, all I have to do is be obedient to what He is calling me to do. If one person in this sweet girl's story had chosen not to listen to God's calling, it would have changed everything.
I encourage you to listen for His voice and be obedient to whatever it is He's calling you to do. Even when it seems like something small or random. You never know what a difference it might make.
One of my dear friends led her daughter to Christ this morning.
So many little steps of obedience, by many people, led up to this moment. So often I don't understand where God is going at all. And there are many times I won't ever understand what His purpose was in a certain situation. I'm getting to the point where that's okay though. I don't have to know what He is doing, all I have to do is be obedient to what He is calling me to do. If one person in this sweet girl's story had chosen not to listen to God's calling, it would have changed everything.
I encourage you to listen for His voice and be obedient to whatever it is He's calling you to do. Even when it seems like something small or random. You never know what a difference it might make.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Rock Star Cutie
Friday night we went to Hailey & Michaels for a night of fun, fellowship, and pretending to be rock stars! Let me tell you friends, as the singer of our rock band I can tell you that the mike is a powerful thing. For those of you that have heard me sing and are wondering how I ended up with the mike, it's not because I have talent you didn't know about.
I am simply that bad at all the other instruments.
Bad singing aside, fun times were had by all! We had a 5th member join us and I included some pictures of the fabulous Hannah channeling her inner rock star. Enjoy!
Mommy, can I get one of these installed in my crib?
Uncle Scotlon helping me get the hang of the drums.
My turn! I think I'm ready for my solo act...
Daddy's playing now so I stole his shoes. I think they might be a little too big right now!
Am I cute or what???
I am simply that bad at all the other instruments.
Bad singing aside, fun times were had by all! We had a 5th member join us and I included some pictures of the fabulous Hannah channeling her inner rock star. Enjoy!
Mommy, can I get one of these installed in my crib?
Uncle Scotlon helping me get the hang of the drums.
My turn! I think I'm ready for my solo act...
Daddy's playing now so I stole his shoes. I think they might be a little too big right now!
Am I cute or what???Thursday, July 31, 2008
All About Me: A to Z
I came across this survey and thought it would be fun!
A is for Age: Technically 26 but I rarely act like it!
B is for Burger of choice: My husband makes a mean bacon cheeseburger!
C is for what Car you drive: Silver Sebring
D is for Dog’s name: I have no dog's but I have two kitties that I love dearly, Mercedes and Lexus.
E is for Essential item you use every day: My coffee pot or my french press if I'm camping. I can not live without my coffee!
F is for Favorite TV show at the moment: There are so many that I love that it's hard to choose one! If I had to pick, probably Jeopardy. I realize that this solidifies my status as a nerd but that's okay. I watch with my husband every night and we try to beat each other. Yes, my husband is a nerd too. But he hasn't realized it yet so shhh...
G is for favorite Game; Rock Star on XBOX or Apples to Apples if we're talking board games.
H is for Hometown: First half of my life in San Diego, now and forevermore the suburbs of Atlanta.
I is for Instruments you play: Um...I play the radio. It's really easy, you should try it some time!
J is for favorite juice: Pineapple-Orange
K is for who you’d like to Kiss: My husband is the only one I want to kiss! Unless you count my 18-month old niece, Hannah, who loves to give out sweet kisses to her auntie.
L is for Last restaurant you ate at: Ruby Tuesday.
M is for favorite Muppet: I DON'T DO MUPPETS. PERIOD.
N is for Number of piercings: Two holes in each ear. I used to have my tongue pierced but not so much now.
O is for Overnight hospital stays: None, praise Jesus!
P is for People you were with today: My co-workers and my husband.
Q is for what you do with your quiet time: Read or work on a blanket.
R is for biggest Regret: I'm going to steal the answer of the lady that I stole the questionnaire from (Tracie Miles) because she said it so much better than I ever could have! "Poor choices as a teenager, but God has used those experiences to His glory, so that gives me peace."
S is for Status: Married for 3 years to my wonderful husband.
T is for Time you woke up today: 4:45. Yes, that's a.m.
U is for what you consider Unique: Snow. Every snowflake is different and unique. Nothing ever looks quite as gorgeous as it does covered in snow.
V is for a vegetable you love: Probably broccoli and cauliflower.
W is for Worst habit: I have no shortage to pick from! I think probably trying to control everything is the worst though. I am trying to learn to give it to God and let Him handle it but it's so hard. It's so nice of Him to give me multiple opportunities to get better at it!
X is for the number of X-rays you’ve had: I don't know...lots over the years.
Y is for Yummy food you ate recently: Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies! They were even yummier since my hubby and I made them together:)
Z is for Zodiac sign: Aquarius
Well, that's it about me! If you want to use this on your blog, free free to give it a shot!
A is for Age: Technically 26 but I rarely act like it!
B is for Burger of choice: My husband makes a mean bacon cheeseburger!
C is for what Car you drive: Silver Sebring
D is for Dog’s name: I have no dog's but I have two kitties that I love dearly, Mercedes and Lexus.
E is for Essential item you use every day: My coffee pot or my french press if I'm camping. I can not live without my coffee!
F is for Favorite TV show at the moment: There are so many that I love that it's hard to choose one! If I had to pick, probably Jeopardy. I realize that this solidifies my status as a nerd but that's okay. I watch with my husband every night and we try to beat each other. Yes, my husband is a nerd too. But he hasn't realized it yet so shhh...
G is for favorite Game; Rock Star on XBOX or Apples to Apples if we're talking board games.
H is for Hometown: First half of my life in San Diego, now and forevermore the suburbs of Atlanta.
I is for Instruments you play: Um...I play the radio. It's really easy, you should try it some time!
J is for favorite juice: Pineapple-Orange
K is for who you’d like to Kiss: My husband is the only one I want to kiss! Unless you count my 18-month old niece, Hannah, who loves to give out sweet kisses to her auntie.
L is for Last restaurant you ate at: Ruby Tuesday.
M is for favorite Muppet: I DON'T DO MUPPETS. PERIOD.
N is for Number of piercings: Two holes in each ear. I used to have my tongue pierced but not so much now.
O is for Overnight hospital stays: None, praise Jesus!
P is for People you were with today: My co-workers and my husband.
Q is for what you do with your quiet time: Read or work on a blanket.
R is for biggest Regret: I'm going to steal the answer of the lady that I stole the questionnaire from (Tracie Miles) because she said it so much better than I ever could have! "Poor choices as a teenager, but God has used those experiences to His glory, so that gives me peace."
S is for Status: Married for 3 years to my wonderful husband.
T is for Time you woke up today: 4:45. Yes, that's a.m.
U is for what you consider Unique: Snow. Every snowflake is different and unique. Nothing ever looks quite as gorgeous as it does covered in snow.
V is for a vegetable you love: Probably broccoli and cauliflower.
W is for Worst habit: I have no shortage to pick from! I think probably trying to control everything is the worst though. I am trying to learn to give it to God and let Him handle it but it's so hard. It's so nice of Him to give me multiple opportunities to get better at it!
X is for the number of X-rays you’ve had: I don't know...lots over the years.
Y is for Yummy food you ate recently: Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies! They were even yummier since my hubby and I made them together:)
Z is for Zodiac sign: Aquarius
Well, that's it about me! If you want to use this on your blog, free free to give it a shot!
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Hump Day Humor-Getting Older
Hump Day Humor
Hosted by Mercedes at Mercedes Rocks
Being the quote queen that I am, I couldn't resist using these for my blog this week. Enjoy!
Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional. ~Chili Davis
There was no respect for youth when I was young, and now that I am old, there is no respect for age - I missed it coming and going. ~J.B. Priestly
An archeologist is the best husband any woman can have: the older she gets, the more interested he is in her. ~Agatha Christie
There was no respect for youth when I was young, and now that I am old, there is no respect for age - I missed it coming and going. ~J.B. Priestly
An archeologist is the best husband any woman can have: the older she gets, the more interested he is in her. ~Agatha Christie
Gray hair is God's graffiti. ~Bill Cosby
You can live to be a hundred if you give up all the things that make you want to live to be a hundred. ~Woody Allen
A stockbroker urged me to buy a stock that would triple its value every year. I told him, 'At my age, I don't even buy green bananas'. ~Claude Pepper
No man is ever old enough to know better. ~Holbrook Jackson
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Cell Phone vs. The Bible
I received this as an e-mail from a friend and it stopped me dead in my tracks. It makes me wonder what our priorities really are...
I wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible
like we treat our cell phone?
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we flipped through it several times a day?
What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we traveled?
What if we used it in case of an emergency?
Oh, and one more thing. Unlike our cell phones, we don't have to worry about our Bible being disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill.
I wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible
like we treat our cell phone?
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we flipped through it several times a day?
What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we traveled?
What if we used it in case of an emergency?
Oh, and one more thing. Unlike our cell phones, we don't have to worry about our Bible being disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
The Cast is Off!
I am happy to announce that yesterday, I ditched my cast! I went to the orthopedist and he removed the cast and said that everything is healing well. I swear that I heard Angels sing when he said that. Not only because I got to have my cast taken off, but because I'm on the downhill side of this whole ordeal. I have a walking boot for the next 4 weeks, then back to the doctor to schedule physical therapy and then I'm done.
The best part about yesterday though, was after I got home. I got to take a shower without a trash bag taped to my leg. This may not seem like something to get excited about but I assure you, I could not have been a happier girl!
I want to thank you so much for you prayers and encouragement throughout all of this. I know that I have not always been the best at hiding my true cast-feelings and I appreciate you letting me vent when need be. I promise that if you ever need to whine about something I will listen whole heartedly. Furthermore, if you ever have to have a cast in July, I will pray profusely that it's the coldest, driest July Georgia has ever seen:)
Love to all,
Stephanie
The best part about yesterday though, was after I got home. I got to take a shower without a trash bag taped to my leg. This may not seem like something to get excited about but I assure you, I could not have been a happier girl!
I want to thank you so much for you prayers and encouragement throughout all of this. I know that I have not always been the best at hiding my true cast-feelings and I appreciate you letting me vent when need be. I promise that if you ever need to whine about something I will listen whole heartedly. Furthermore, if you ever have to have a cast in July, I will pray profusely that it's the coldest, driest July Georgia has ever seen:)
Love to all,
Stephanie
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Hump Day Humor-Signs
Hump Day Humor
Hosted by Mercedes Rocks
I got this as an e-mail from a friend. The signs are hilarious and sure to make you giggle at least once!
Hosted by Mercedes Rocks
I got this as an e-mail from a friend. The signs are hilarious and sure to make you giggle at least once!
Monday, July 21, 2008
How Many Pairs of Shoes Do You Own?
**Update**I found 7 more pair in our guest closet bringing my total to 42 pairs of shoes. Which just makes the whole thing more terrible. I have shoes that I FORGOT ABOUT and there are children who have no shoes.**
A little random for a Monday morning I know, but humor me. One of the blogs I follow, Brad Ruggles, asked this question on Friday. So, I counted and I own 35 pairs of shoes. He followed up yesterday with a post for the 40 Day Fast.
Reading about the number of children that are running around with no shoes, cutting their feet on rocks, while I have a multitude to choose from, is heartbreaking. In fact, with my cast on one foot, I only have a few pair to pick from and I've been complaining about being confined to those.
That makes me a little nauseous.
Go check out his post for the exact number of children who have no shoes. I can't read it and not be moved to do something about it.
A little random for a Monday morning I know, but humor me. One of the blogs I follow, Brad Ruggles, asked this question on Friday. So, I counted and I own 35 pairs of shoes. He followed up yesterday with a post for the 40 Day Fast.
Reading about the number of children that are running around with no shoes, cutting their feet on rocks, while I have a multitude to choose from, is heartbreaking. In fact, with my cast on one foot, I only have a few pair to pick from and I've been complaining about being confined to those.
That makes me a little nauseous.
Go check out his post for the exact number of children who have no shoes. I can't read it and not be moved to do something about it.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
I Am Not Wonder Woman
Good Morning! I want to ask you to pray for me this morning as I have come to a startling revelation.
I am not wonder woman.
I know that you all find this just as shocking as I did! That being said, I've been on my foot a lot more the last few days and it is killing me. Last night, I not only canceled plans with my Hailey (which I NEVER do), but I also used my crutches instead of putting weight on it. Since, I would rather crawl for the rest of my life than use the crutches, I took that as a sign that I needed to sit down and put it up.
I am at work today and going to stay chained to my desk with it propped up. If you wouldn't mind saying an extra prayer that it would stop throbbing, I would appreciate it more than you know.
And if you're thinking of telling me that I need to listen to my body and be patient, Allison beat you to it:) She just sent me this:
Be still & know that I am God. ~ Psalm 46:10
Thanks for being here.
Love,
Stephanie
I am not wonder woman.
I know that you all find this just as shocking as I did! That being said, I've been on my foot a lot more the last few days and it is killing me. Last night, I not only canceled plans with my Hailey (which I NEVER do), but I also used my crutches instead of putting weight on it. Since, I would rather crawl for the rest of my life than use the crutches, I took that as a sign that I needed to sit down and put it up.
I am at work today and going to stay chained to my desk with it propped up. If you wouldn't mind saying an extra prayer that it would stop throbbing, I would appreciate it more than you know.
And if you're thinking of telling me that I need to listen to my body and be patient, Allison beat you to it:) She just sent me this:
Be still & know that I am God. ~ Psalm 46:10
Thanks for being here.
Love,
Stephanie
Saturday, July 12, 2008
God needs a megaphone
Do you ever feel like God needs a megaphone? Instead of sending you reminders through people he could just yell down the message that He is trying to give you. Not that I don't appreciate the way He uses random strangers in my life, I'm just dense a lot of the time. I can imagine Him sitting up there as He tries for the third time to show me something (that I inevitably miss) saying, "Seriously??? How many times do I have to tell you this before you get it?" Enter the megaphone.
The theme of my devotional yesterday was that God has a purpose for you exactly where you are. You may not always understand them, but God's choices for your life are never haphazard or random. A couple hours later I was driving to work listening to Christian Working Woman. Mary Welchel was talking about feeling content with God's purpose for your life. Are you noticing a theme? I wasn't. Yet.
In the afternoon a lady walked into my office and we started chatting (I really will talk to anyone if you stand still long enough!). We got on the subject of churches and I told her that I think I'm not satisfied with any of the churches I've visited because I really want to be in my Father-in-law's church. And then she said to me, "I can so understand that but you have to remember that where you are isn't a random. God has a very specific plan for each season of your life."
My jaw hit the floor.
I must have been staring funny because she asked if I was okay. I told her about my morning, and that she was the third "messenger" to deliver that information to me. She laughed and asked if I got the message yet. I said yes and we both went on about our days.
So, if like me, you have been feeling like you're not sure what God is doing with your life right now, it's okay because He has you exactly where He wants you to be. And for today that is going to be enough for me. I thank you for sticking with me and I will leave you with my favorite verse for this seaon,
Jeremiah 29:11-"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Love you all,
Stephanie
The theme of my devotional yesterday was that God has a purpose for you exactly where you are. You may not always understand them, but God's choices for your life are never haphazard or random. A couple hours later I was driving to work listening to Christian Working Woman. Mary Welchel was talking about feeling content with God's purpose for your life. Are you noticing a theme? I wasn't. Yet.
In the afternoon a lady walked into my office and we started chatting (I really will talk to anyone if you stand still long enough!). We got on the subject of churches and I told her that I think I'm not satisfied with any of the churches I've visited because I really want to be in my Father-in-law's church. And then she said to me, "I can so understand that but you have to remember that where you are isn't a random. God has a very specific plan for each season of your life."
My jaw hit the floor.
I must have been staring funny because she asked if I was okay. I told her about my morning, and that she was the third "messenger" to deliver that information to me. She laughed and asked if I got the message yet. I said yes and we both went on about our days.
So, if like me, you have been feeling like you're not sure what God is doing with your life right now, it's okay because He has you exactly where He wants you to be. And for today that is going to be enough for me. I thank you for sticking with me and I will leave you with my favorite verse for this seaon,
Jeremiah 29:11-"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Love you all,
Stephanie
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Judge Not
I just started a new Bible study by Beth Moore called David and am really enjoying it. Well, I'll say growing a lot as God changes my heart. It's not always a fun process but conviction rarely is.
This mornings' scripture was 1 Samuel 16:1-7 and it spoke about judging people. The last verse in particular jumped out at me: But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." How often do I sum up my feelings about someone within a few minutes of meeting them? Or in less than a few seconds as I pass them in a store? More often than I realize. It makes it even worse when I think about how much I HATE when people do that to me.
As I was reflecting on this, I thought about how worried I get about how people view me. On average I spend about 45 minutes getting physically ready for the day. How often do I spend 45+ minutes in the morning praying and putting on my spiritual armor for the day? While I usually spend quiet time with God in the morning, it doesn't even come close to 45 minutes. Am I really that much more concerned with what people think than what God thinks? While I hate to admit it, the answer seems painfully clear.
Am I the only one who thinks that this is completely backwards of how it should be?
This mornings' scripture was 1 Samuel 16:1-7 and it spoke about judging people. The last verse in particular jumped out at me: But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." How often do I sum up my feelings about someone within a few minutes of meeting them? Or in less than a few seconds as I pass them in a store? More often than I realize. It makes it even worse when I think about how much I HATE when people do that to me.
As I was reflecting on this, I thought about how worried I get about how people view me. On average I spend about 45 minutes getting physically ready for the day. How often do I spend 45+ minutes in the morning praying and putting on my spiritual armor for the day? While I usually spend quiet time with God in the morning, it doesn't even come close to 45 minutes. Am I really that much more concerned with what people think than what God thinks? While I hate to admit it, the answer seems painfully clear.
Am I the only one who thinks that this is completely backwards of how it should be?
Friday, July 4, 2008
4th of July
Every year we go to Elberton to celebrate 4th of July. Hailey's family (my adopted family) lives there and dad's birthday is on the 5th so it's just a weekend full of excitement. He is one of the most hard-working, honorable men I know...which also makes him the hardest to buy gifts for! He is content with what he has and doesn't want gifts unless they're practical. We all went in together and got him an ipod this year since he does love music. And he's excited because he can download sermons to it and listen while he works on the tractor. That's the kind of man he is.
The majority of the time we're here we're in the living room. And when I say we, I mean all nine of us (and more on occasion) just spending time together. Right now Mom, Dad & Hannah are playing on the floor, Michael & I are on laptops, and the rest are playing Rock Band on XBOX. It's not that we're doing anything spectacular, really, we're all just happy to be together. I swear we just love to be goofy together. Last night we were playing Halo and the computer named me Hippo. No, I'm not kidding. I was, of course, annoyed, and everyone laughed for a good 20 minutes or so just because of that. We're silly people and I wouldn't change that for anything in the world.
When Nanny and Papa come over to eat with us there's 4 generations around the table. I look around at everyone and thank God that I am part of this wonderful family. They mean more to me than I can even begin to tell you and I can honestly say that I don't know where I would be without their influence in my life. I know that I talk a lot about them but I can't help it. I am constantly overwhelmed by their love and generosity.
If you got through all the rambling and made it this far I am amazed but thank you for sticking with me. I hope that all of you had weekends that were equally as wonderful!
The majority of the time we're here we're in the living room. And when I say we, I mean all nine of us (and more on occasion) just spending time together. Right now Mom, Dad & Hannah are playing on the floor, Michael & I are on laptops, and the rest are playing Rock Band on XBOX. It's not that we're doing anything spectacular, really, we're all just happy to be together. I swear we just love to be goofy together. Last night we were playing Halo and the computer named me Hippo. No, I'm not kidding. I was, of course, annoyed, and everyone laughed for a good 20 minutes or so just because of that. We're silly people and I wouldn't change that for anything in the world.
When Nanny and Papa come over to eat with us there's 4 generations around the table. I look around at everyone and thank God that I am part of this wonderful family. They mean more to me than I can even begin to tell you and I can honestly say that I don't know where I would be without their influence in my life. I know that I talk a lot about them but I can't help it. I am constantly overwhelmed by their love and generosity.
If you got through all the rambling and made it this far I am amazed but thank you for sticking with me. I hope that all of you had weekends that were equally as wonderful!
Monday, June 30, 2008
Apologies
I must begin by apologizing to all of you. I have been absent for almost two weeks now and haven't been kind enough to update anyone on thing here. Please forgive me; I promise to be more consistent from this point forward.
I have been in a FUNK for the last week or so. I don't know exactly what my issue has been but I've been out of sorts and a little depressed. I think that a large part of it has been that I'm cooped up and completely dependant on other people. As you all know I am a high-energy person and all the sitting and doing nothing has made me a little bit stir crazy. And by a little bit I mean, just barely one step away from a straight jacket and a padded room. Seriously.
While I was feeling like this I didn't really want to blog. Every time I started to think about getting on I just wanted to whine about something that was really stupid. I was even beginning to annoy myself with the incessant complaining. There was no point in posting something false just for the sake of posting so I didn't post at all.
I know that this is getting long and I'm rambling so I'll update you quick and get off. Major praise: my friend that had surgery the same day I did got all of her tests back and she doesn't have cancer! I am healing well from my surgery and the doctor put me in a cast today. I'm not cleared to go back to work yet but I was expecting that and am continuing to rest so I can go back soon. I even got a hot pink cast which thrills me to know end...I know, I'm such a girl!
I miss you all terribly and am so grateful for your thoughts and prayers. Knowing that you've been praying me through this has helped tremendously. I would love to return the favor; please let me know how I can pray for you.
Love,
Stephanie
I have been in a FUNK for the last week or so. I don't know exactly what my issue has been but I've been out of sorts and a little depressed. I think that a large part of it has been that I'm cooped up and completely dependant on other people. As you all know I am a high-energy person and all the sitting and doing nothing has made me a little bit stir crazy. And by a little bit I mean, just barely one step away from a straight jacket and a padded room. Seriously.
While I was feeling like this I didn't really want to blog. Every time I started to think about getting on I just wanted to whine about something that was really stupid. I was even beginning to annoy myself with the incessant complaining. There was no point in posting something false just for the sake of posting so I didn't post at all.
I know that this is getting long and I'm rambling so I'll update you quick and get off. Major praise: my friend that had surgery the same day I did got all of her tests back and she doesn't have cancer! I am healing well from my surgery and the doctor put me in a cast today. I'm not cleared to go back to work yet but I was expecting that and am continuing to rest so I can go back soon. I even got a hot pink cast which thrills me to know end...I know, I'm such a girl!
I miss you all terribly and am so grateful for your thoughts and prayers. Knowing that you've been praying me through this has helped tremendously. I would love to return the favor; please let me know how I can pray for you.
Love,
Stephanie
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Stephanie is Out of Surgery!
This is Stephanie’s friend, Hailey. As mentioned in her previous post, she asked that I update you on her condition post-op. I am pleased to report that the surgery went very, very well.
Scotlon called me at 2:30 this afternoon to let me know that Stephanie had received a temporary nerve-blocker in her right leg in order to help alleviate some of her pain during recovery & that she was being wheeled into the operating room. Her surgeon expected the procedure to last about 45 minutes, but it may be almost 2 hours before Scotlon could visit her in the recovery room.
Scotlon called again at 4:50 to let me know that Stephanie was resting in the recovery room. Her surgeon was very pleased with the success of her surgery & he expects her to make a complete & normal recovery. Scotlon was unsure when Stephanie will be discharged, but hopefully they will be headed home within an hour or two.
Thank you for your prayers, I know that Stephanie & Scotlon are both extremely appreciative of every prayer, every thought & every kind word of encouragement. Please continue to pray for Stephanie’s recovery. I know that she is enthusiastically awaiting the day when she can wear her beloved pumps once again!
With much gratitude,
Hailey
P.S. Stephanie made it without her coffee! There were some harsh words muttered under her breath, I’m sure…but she’s a trooper!!
Scotlon called me at 2:30 this afternoon to let me know that Stephanie had received a temporary nerve-blocker in her right leg in order to help alleviate some of her pain during recovery & that she was being wheeled into the operating room. Her surgeon expected the procedure to last about 45 minutes, but it may be almost 2 hours before Scotlon could visit her in the recovery room.
Scotlon called again at 4:50 to let me know that Stephanie was resting in the recovery room. Her surgeon was very pleased with the success of her surgery & he expects her to make a complete & normal recovery. Scotlon was unsure when Stephanie will be discharged, but hopefully they will be headed home within an hour or two.
Thank you for your prayers, I know that Stephanie & Scotlon are both extremely appreciative of every prayer, every thought & every kind word of encouragement. Please continue to pray for Stephanie’s recovery. I know that she is enthusiastically awaiting the day when she can wear her beloved pumps once again!
With much gratitude,
Hailey
P.S. Stephanie made it without her coffee! There were some harsh words muttered under her breath, I’m sure…but she’s a trooper!!
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Surgery Information
Today was a long and draining day but it was also a good day. I had pre-op for my surgery this afternoon and it is a lot of information to get all at once. Tomorrow I have to be at the hospital at 1:00 and my surgery is scheduled for 3:00. This does not excite me since I cant eat or drink after midnight and that means no coffee! If you read my earlier posts you already know that this could be the most terrible part of the whole surgery process:) However, the surgeon said that he often times moves along more quickly than the hospital expects and he has hopes that it will be earlier. I'm praying that this is the case.
Tomorrow morning one of my good friends is having a lump removed from her breast. She has been told that it is benign and that there is no need for worry. The stigma that surrounds the surgery remains, however, and it is hard to ignore all the things that we've heard over the years. I would love it if you would offer up a prayer that her surgery goes well and that she will be filled with peace. I know that she would appreciate it and so do I!
There are so many great passages in the Bible about God's peace but this was the one that spoke to me as I was searching for verses this morning. John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful." The worry keeps trying to creep in but I refuse to let it. Jesus is giving out His peace freely and I know that He is in control. I put a sticky note with this verse in my car so that I will continue to see it even after my surgery. They're good words to remember in any situation!
My best friend Hailey will post an update when I'm out of surgery since I'll be heavily medicated. While I know that it might be more entertaining for you if I were to post in that condition, I think I'll stick with my guest author:) Thank you for all of your prayers tomorrow. It means more to me than you can possibly imagine and I am so blessed by each of you.
~Stephanie
Tomorrow morning one of my good friends is having a lump removed from her breast. She has been told that it is benign and that there is no need for worry. The stigma that surrounds the surgery remains, however, and it is hard to ignore all the things that we've heard over the years. I would love it if you would offer up a prayer that her surgery goes well and that she will be filled with peace. I know that she would appreciate it and so do I!
There are so many great passages in the Bible about God's peace but this was the one that spoke to me as I was searching for verses this morning. John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful." The worry keeps trying to creep in but I refuse to let it. Jesus is giving out His peace freely and I know that He is in control. I put a sticky note with this verse in my car so that I will continue to see it even after my surgery. They're good words to remember in any situation!
My best friend Hailey will post an update when I'm out of surgery since I'll be heavily medicated. While I know that it might be more entertaining for you if I were to post in that condition, I think I'll stick with my guest author:) Thank you for all of your prayers tomorrow. It means more to me than you can possibly imagine and I am so blessed by each of you.
~Stephanie
Monday, June 16, 2008
Father's Day
I had the pleasure of spending Father's Day weekend in Centerville with my in-laws. The only down side, of course, being that my super powers are broken. Since I can't be in two-places at once without them, I wasn't able to spend the day with my own father too. I got a chance to talk with him a little though and will hopefully see him soon!
The weekend overall was wonderful. I spent time with a friend that I don't see often and thoroughly enjoyed my time with her. Her infectious personality makes it impossible to not laugh when you're in her presence. My husband had to work but we were able to spend the evenings together and we cherished the time we had.
One of my favorite things about going to Centerville is getting to worship in the church where my Father-in-law is. He has an amazing gift for words and I love hearing his sermons. Yesterday morning was no exception. He spoke on John 14:1 and it was AWESOME. If you get a chance, I encourage you to check out the church's website. His sermons are podcast so you can hear it in it's entirety. Let me know if you go listen to it; I would love to hear your thoughts!
This has been a longer post than I meant it to be...though they usually are. I have the gift of gab and I thank you for sticking with me while I ramble:) I hope all of you had a wonderful Fathers Day weekend with your families!
The weekend overall was wonderful. I spent time with a friend that I don't see often and thoroughly enjoyed my time with her. Her infectious personality makes it impossible to not laugh when you're in her presence. My husband had to work but we were able to spend the evenings together and we cherished the time we had.
One of my favorite things about going to Centerville is getting to worship in the church where my Father-in-law is. He has an amazing gift for words and I love hearing his sermons. Yesterday morning was no exception. He spoke on John 14:1 and it was AWESOME. If you get a chance, I encourage you to check out the church's website. His sermons are podcast so you can hear it in it's entirety. Let me know if you go listen to it; I would love to hear your thoughts!
This has been a longer post than I meant it to be...though they usually are. I have the gift of gab and I thank you for sticking with me while I ramble:) I hope all of you had a wonderful Fathers Day weekend with your families!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Overflowing
Reading the title of this post, I'm sure that you're thinking that I'm going to write something about overflowing with joy or being filled with God's love. Nope. I meant it quite literally.
This morning I put on coffee and the pot wasn't quite right under the spout (which would have been useful information ahead of time). You can imagine my surprise when I went back to get my cherished first cup and there was an empty pot and coffee overflowing everywhere. The counter, drawers, carpet, etc. all covered in my beloved coffee. If you've never cleaned up a spilled pot of coffee, before you've had your coffee, let me tell you, it's not the way I planned to spend my morning. About halfway through cleaning I was so desperate for caffeine that I considered licking it off the counter (go ahead and laugh, I would if I were you).
As I sat down to write this I got inspired and looked up the definition for 'overflowing'. Miriam-Webster said, "to fill a space to capacity and spread beyond its limits". Perfect don't you think?
Here's hoping that all of you had wonderful, uneventful mornings!
This morning I put on coffee and the pot wasn't quite right under the spout (which would have been useful information ahead of time). You can imagine my surprise when I went back to get my cherished first cup and there was an empty pot and coffee overflowing everywhere. The counter, drawers, carpet, etc. all covered in my beloved coffee. If you've never cleaned up a spilled pot of coffee, before you've had your coffee, let me tell you, it's not the way I planned to spend my morning. About halfway through cleaning I was so desperate for caffeine that I considered licking it off the counter (go ahead and laugh, I would if I were you).
As I sat down to write this I got inspired and looked up the definition for 'overflowing'. Miriam-Webster said, "to fill a space to capacity and spread beyond its limits". Perfect don't you think?
Here's hoping that all of you had wonderful, uneventful mornings!
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
I Would Die For You
How often do you really hear the lyrics of the song that's playing? Not just listening along but really focus on them and what they mean. I just got a new MercyMe CD a couple days ago and I absolutely love it. This morning, I was listening to it on my way into work and the last song caught my attention. I was singing along and got to the line where he says, "And I pray that You will use my life in whatever way Your name is glorified" when I heard this voice say, Do you really mean that?"
I don't normally hear God quite as clearly as I did this morning, so it surprised me a little and I literally spoke out loud in my car, "I'm sorry, what did You just say?"
Do you really mean that? Is your honest desire for me to use your life in whatever way glorifies Me?
My gut response is to say, "Of course! The reason I'm on this earth is to glorify You." I opened my mouth to say this when He lovingly reminded me that accepting hard times as part of His plan is not the same as desiring to go through those hard times if that's what it takes to bring Him glory.
Oh, well, hmm. That's a little harder. And I honestly can say that I don't generally welcome the hard times. I try to find a way to praise Him through the storm and find some solace in His plan but I rarely welcome the storm willingly. I'm pondering this when I hear the 2nd verse and it rocks me to the core. How can I possibly desire to give God less than everything when His death is the reason that I live? I am ashamed at how often I offer God less than my best. How often I complain about the minor hardships instead of focusing on my abundant blessings.
And yet He loves me, unconditionally, patiently turning my heart towards Him. What an awesome and almighty God we serve.
I Would Die For You
And I know that I can find You here'
Cause You promised me
You'll always be there
Times like these, it's hard to see
But somehow I have a peace, You're near
And I pray that You will use my life
In whatever way Your name is glorified
Even if surrendering
Means leaving everything behind
My life has never been this clear
Now I know the reason why I'm here
You never know why You're alive
Until you know what you would die for
I would die for You
And I know I don't have much to give
But I promise You I will give You all there is
How can I possibly do less
When through Your own death I live?
No greater love is found
Than of those who lay their own lives down
As sure as I live and breathe
Now I know what it means to be free
I don't normally hear God quite as clearly as I did this morning, so it surprised me a little and I literally spoke out loud in my car, "I'm sorry, what did You just say?"
Do you really mean that? Is your honest desire for me to use your life in whatever way glorifies Me?
My gut response is to say, "Of course! The reason I'm on this earth is to glorify You." I opened my mouth to say this when He lovingly reminded me that accepting hard times as part of His plan is not the same as desiring to go through those hard times if that's what it takes to bring Him glory.
Oh, well, hmm. That's a little harder. And I honestly can say that I don't generally welcome the hard times. I try to find a way to praise Him through the storm and find some solace in His plan but I rarely welcome the storm willingly. I'm pondering this when I hear the 2nd verse and it rocks me to the core. How can I possibly desire to give God less than everything when His death is the reason that I live? I am ashamed at how often I offer God less than my best. How often I complain about the minor hardships instead of focusing on my abundant blessings.
And yet He loves me, unconditionally, patiently turning my heart towards Him. What an awesome and almighty God we serve.
I Would Die For You
And I know that I can find You here'
Cause You promised me
You'll always be there
Times like these, it's hard to see
But somehow I have a peace, You're near
And I pray that You will use my life
In whatever way Your name is glorified
Even if surrendering
Means leaving everything behind
My life has never been this clear
Now I know the reason why I'm here
You never know why You're alive
Until you know what you would die for
I would die for You
And I know I don't have much to give
But I promise You I will give You all there is
How can I possibly do less
When through Your own death I live?
No greater love is found
Than of those who lay their own lives down
As sure as I live and breathe
Now I know what it means to be free
Monday, June 9, 2008
Love & Marriage
When I dreamt about marriage growing up my expectation was the happily ever after, fairy tale kind of love that you see in the movies. One day my prince would sweep me off my feet and we would be blissfully happy for the rest of our lives. Those of you that have been married for longer than five minutes know that this is not the case. I have been married for just over 3 years and while I love my husband more each day, our relationship looks nothing like a fairy tale.
And I have never been more happy in my life.
Scotlon and I spent the entire weekend together, which in itself is rare. We did nothing out of the ordinary but it was one of the most perfect weekends that I have ever had. It wasn't what we did so much as it was the spirit in which things were done. We both compromised (1 chick flick, 1 action movie), did things we hate (I did dishes, he worked in the yard), and tried to make the other person happy as much as humanly possible. I was basking in the glow of this perfect weekend this morning, humming to myself, and trying to figure out what made it so good when it hit me.
We put the other person, and their wants and needs, first.
It's as simple, and as complicated as that. It is the part of 1 Corinthians that I think I struggle with the most. It pains me when I think of how selfish I can be and how much that can hurt the people that I love the most. It's something that I am striving to change. I want to love my husband, and people in general, the way God loves me. While I don't think it's possible to love that way, He is God after all, I can certainly do a lot better than I am now. Bible Gateway has The Message and this is what they had to say about love. You can read the entire text here.
Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle,
Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
What aspect of love do you struggle with?
And I have never been more happy in my life.
Scotlon and I spent the entire weekend together, which in itself is rare. We did nothing out of the ordinary but it was one of the most perfect weekends that I have ever had. It wasn't what we did so much as it was the spirit in which things were done. We both compromised (1 chick flick, 1 action movie), did things we hate (I did dishes, he worked in the yard), and tried to make the other person happy as much as humanly possible. I was basking in the glow of this perfect weekend this morning, humming to myself, and trying to figure out what made it so good when it hit me.
We put the other person, and their wants and needs, first.
It's as simple, and as complicated as that. It is the part of 1 Corinthians that I think I struggle with the most. It pains me when I think of how selfish I can be and how much that can hurt the people that I love the most. It's something that I am striving to change. I want to love my husband, and people in general, the way God loves me. While I don't think it's possible to love that way, He is God after all, I can certainly do a lot better than I am now. Bible Gateway has The Message and this is what they had to say about love. You can read the entire text here.
Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle,
Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
What aspect of love do you struggle with?
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Peace and Contentment
"Whatever we are waiting for - peace of mind, contentment, grace, the inner awareness of simple abundance - it will surely come to us, but only when we are ready to receive it with an open and grateful heart."
Those who know me at all will tell you that I love quotes! After all, if someone already said what I'm thinking perfectly, why not use their words? I came across this one from Sarah Ban Breathnach this morning; I skimmed it and was about to move on but something stopped me so I went back and re-read the last part, "but only when we are ready to receive it with an open mind and grateful heart."
Only when I am ready to receive contentment and peace will I find them. Now, I know that you are thinking that a person would have to be crazy to be anything but ready. And I agreed with you until I really sat and thought about it for a few minutes. How often do I pray for peace only to continue to worry about it? As Christians we know that God is in control and that worrying about it won't change anything. Jesus asks in Matthew 6:27, "Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?". The answer is always no. And if you have been my friend longer than 5 minutes I have quoted this to you while telling you not to worry about whatever it is that is troubling you. I humbly apologize as I am guilty of not taking my own advice!
I realized this morning that I almost like to worry. It's tangible and it gives me something to do with my thoughts and feelings when I should be dumping them out at the foot of the cross. Do you know how backwards that is? That is about the dumbest thing I have ever admitted out loud! And something about putting it in black and white makes me feel even more ridiculous than I did when it was just my own thought...
So from this point forward I am going to make a conscious effort to leave my worries with God. He's far more capable than I am of handling it anyway!
Those who know me at all will tell you that I love quotes! After all, if someone already said what I'm thinking perfectly, why not use their words? I came across this one from Sarah Ban Breathnach this morning; I skimmed it and was about to move on but something stopped me so I went back and re-read the last part, "but only when we are ready to receive it with an open mind and grateful heart."
Only when I am ready to receive contentment and peace will I find them. Now, I know that you are thinking that a person would have to be crazy to be anything but ready. And I agreed with you until I really sat and thought about it for a few minutes. How often do I pray for peace only to continue to worry about it? As Christians we know that God is in control and that worrying about it won't change anything. Jesus asks in Matthew 6:27, "Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?". The answer is always no. And if you have been my friend longer than 5 minutes I have quoted this to you while telling you not to worry about whatever it is that is troubling you. I humbly apologize as I am guilty of not taking my own advice!
I realized this morning that I almost like to worry. It's tangible and it gives me something to do with my thoughts and feelings when I should be dumping them out at the foot of the cross. Do you know how backwards that is? That is about the dumbest thing I have ever admitted out loud! And something about putting it in black and white makes me feel even more ridiculous than I did when it was just my own thought...
So from this point forward I am going to make a conscious effort to leave my worries with God. He's far more capable than I am of handling it anyway!
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Safety in the Storm
Please pray for my husband this morning. He has been miserably sick the last few days and he has a job interview this morning. I know that if it is where God wants him to be He will open the door regardless of the situation. I just know how nervous he must be because he wants it to go well so badly and he's struggling just to make it through the day right now. Thank you all for being wonderful friends and prayer warriors. I will keep you posted as soon as we hear anything!
On a completely separate note, the scripture for my devotion this morning was Psalm 57:1-11. The first verse immediately jumped out at me: "My soul trusts in You; and in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge, until these calamities have passed by." An immediate sense of peace washed over me as I had a mental picture of God standing next to me and protecting me.
As a kid, I felt the safest when my dad was there next to me. It didn't matter if we were riding a roller coaster, waiting out a storm, going to the doctor or simply crossing the street, if he was next to me I felt safe. That same feeling of safety should follow me everywhere because I know that my God walks next to me and is with me always. Does it? No. It doesn't mean that He's not with me, just that I'm being stubborn and trying to brave the storm instead of seeking the protection that is being offered. I encourage you today to seek that protection and take solace in the fact that God will always be there to comfort you, whatever storm you may be facing.
On a completely separate note, the scripture for my devotion this morning was Psalm 57:1-11. The first verse immediately jumped out at me: "My soul trusts in You; and in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge, until these calamities have passed by." An immediate sense of peace washed over me as I had a mental picture of God standing next to me and protecting me.
As a kid, I felt the safest when my dad was there next to me. It didn't matter if we were riding a roller coaster, waiting out a storm, going to the doctor or simply crossing the street, if he was next to me I felt safe. That same feeling of safety should follow me everywhere because I know that my God walks next to me and is with me always. Does it? No. It doesn't mean that He's not with me, just that I'm being stubborn and trying to brave the storm instead of seeking the protection that is being offered. I encourage you today to seek that protection and take solace in the fact that God will always be there to comfort you, whatever storm you may be facing.
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