In Pursuit...

My Studio

2012-01-15T16:25:00.000-06:00

This is what my studio looked like for the school year 2009-2010.

Interval Kicks

2012-01-15T16:22:00.000-06:00

Kick Off Ball
Summer 2010

This is another game I created. I would call out two note names and the student would have to kick the ball the same number as the interval. i.e. "C up to G." That's a 5th so the student would get 5 kicks.

But, then all that rope was just too tempting, so the student's decided they just had to play tug of war. Here's the little ones...

...and the big ones battling it out.

Water Balloon Staff

2012-01-15T16:16:00.000-06:00

Kick Off Ball
Summer 2010
Water Balloon Staff
I made this one up. Greg staked a staff on the ground with rope.
Volunteers stood as notes. Balloon throwers had to point to the note I called out and aim their balloon at that person.

At this point it was a free for all.

Backwards Music Alphabet Relay

2012-01-15T16:08:00.000-06:00

Kick Off Ball
Summer 2010
http://sherylwelles.blogspot.com/2010/07/this-week-i-have-been-running-my.html

Interval Blocks

2012-01-15T15:36:00.003-06:00

Kick Off Ball

Summer 2010

http://jenspianostudio.wordpress.com/2010/02/01/interval-tower-game/

Melodic Ear Training

2012-01-12T20:14:00.004-06:00

Kick Off Ball

Summer 2010

I made some cards with melodic reading patterns which I played on the piano. 3 volunteers did body motions for high, middle, and low notes. I got this idea from an awesome old piano game book "Musical Games and Activities" by Gloria Burnett Scott.

Running List of Someday Wedding Must Haves...

2012-01-12T20:08:00.003-06:00

...Focus on Worship
....Communion
...Dancing
...Lots and lots of flowers, even for guests:

I LOVE how at every wedding on Lark rise to Candleford every single wedding guest has some little flower pinned on.

Kick Off Ball Performance Class Summer 2010

2012-01-12T13:41:00.000-06:00

Skittles Game

2012-01-11T21:32:00.000-06:00

Kick Off Ball
Summer 2010

Skittles Game for Staff Notes:
http://susanparadis.wordpress.com/2008/12/16/skittles-board-game/

Music Spelling

2012-01-11T21:23:00.000-06:00

I didn't take many photos while teaching, but I thought I'd share what few I did.
This is from a Kick Off Ball I held for my piano students during the Summer of 2010.
We played a Team Spelling game I made up. They split into pairs and each team had to find note cards hidden around the room. They then had to "spell" words with the staff notes and run to write the words on the board. I kept tally of how many words each team got to declare the winner.

Love little boys!

Rushing to get their word on the board

Racking up the points

Music For Sale

2012-01-11T21:06:00.000-06:00

I've been overwhelmed by the response to my music sale. Thank you! I decided to make a condensed list here of what's left, to make it easier for me and others considering purchasing some music. You may still email me at studiomusic4sale@gmail.com . I will send you a Paypal invoice and ship your purchase once I have received your address and payment.

New condition books are half off retail. Used books are $1.00. Used sheet music is $0.50. Some items are free.

Succeeding at the Piano by Helen Marlais

#1A FJH and Helen Marlais Catalogs FREE

#2A Succeeding at the Piano: Lesson and Technique Preparatory Level Book with CDby Helen Marlais (FJH) $4.50 I am selling 2 copies of this book.

#3A Succeeding at the Piano: Theory and Activity Book Preparatory Level by HelenMarlais (FJH) $3.25

Method Books: Repertoire Based

#5B Baroque and Classical Piano Repertoire: Preparatory Level by Keith Snell(KJOS) $1.00 Very light and few pencil markings throughout book.

Intermediate Performance Books

#5E Spelling at the Piano: Improvisations Based on the Music Alphabet by Frederick Werle (FJH)$2.25

Sheet Music

#3F Waltz Parisienne by Myra Brooks-Turner (FJH) $0.50 Intermediate Has measure numbers written inpencil. Current NFMC selection.

#4F March Royale by Melody Bober (FJH) FREE Bent and has several markings onfirst 2 pages.

#5F Galloping Stallion by Melody Bober (FJH) Intermediate $1.50

#7F Rondo alla Turca by W.A. Mozart arranged by Willard A. Palmer "SimplyClassics" (Alfred) Early Intermediate $0.50 Neat highlighting in first 3measures.

#9F Elegy in E by Carolyn C. Setliff (FJH) $1.50 LateElementary

#10F Valse Chimerique by Geoffrey Carroll (Willis) Advanced $1.00

Other Materials

#1G Federation Festivals Bulletin 2011, 2012, 2013 (NFMC) $1.00 A few markings on a few pages.

#6G How to Understand and Listen to Great Music: Part 6 of 6: Romanticism-Modernism by Robert Greenberg (The Teaching Company) FREE Contains 4 cassette tapes and companion booklet in good condition.

Christmas

It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas by Meridith Willson (Plymouth Music) $0.50 1951, small water stain not on notes, otherwise great condition.

Music Sale: Christmas

2011-12-31T11:58:00.000-06:00

I'm moving to another city in a week and will no longer be teachingpiano. I have many music books I've chosen to sell. I have themlisted here on the blog, you can email me at studiomusic4sale@gmail.com and Iwill figure up a reasonable shipping fee and then send you a PayPal invoice byemail. Please scroll down, there are 7 posts in total in which I have listed books. I have single sheet music, teaching resources, intermediate performance books, repertoire books, and method books by Helen Marlais, Bastien, Alfred, Faber, Keith Snell, and more!

Books and single sheet music in new condition I've priced at half offretail. Lightly used books are priced at $1.00 each, used single sheetmusic at $0.50 each, and some are free with another purchase!

I've also given each item a number to be used in purchasing.

Christmas Music

SOLD Christmas Piano Solos Level 1 by Kern, Keveren, and Rejino (Hal Leonard) $3.00

SOLD Christmas Piano Solos Level 1 by Kern, Keveren, and Rejino (Hal Leonard) $1.00 Light pencil markings on one piece.

SOLD Christmas Piano Solos Level 1 by Kern, Keveren, and Rejino (Hal Leonard) $1.00 Light pencil markings throughout book.

It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas by Meridith Willson (Plymouth Music) $0.50 1951, small water stain not on notes, otherwise great condition.

Music Sale: Single Sheet Music and Other

2011-12-28T14:18:00.002-06:00

I'm moving to another city in 2 weeks and will no longer be teachingpiano. I have many music books I've chosen to sell. I have themlisted here on the blog, you can email me at studiomusic4sale@gmail.com and Iwill figure up a reasonable shipping fee and then send you a PayPal invoice byemail.

Books and single sheet music in new condition I've priced at half offretail. Lightly used books are priced at $1.00 each, used single sheetmusic at $0.50 each, and some are free with another purchase!

I've also given each item a number to be used in purchasing.

Items in RED are current NFMC federation festivalchoices.

Single Sheet Music

SOLD #1F Fiesta Days by Robert D. Vandall (Alfred) $1.50 Early Intermediate

SOLD #2F Turbocharged by Christopher Goldston (FJH) $1.25Early Intermediate

#3F Waltz Parisienne by Myra Brooks-Turner (FJH) $0.50 Intermediate Has measure numbers written inpencil.

#4F March Royale by Melody Bober (FJH) FREE Bent and has several markings onfirst 2 pages.

#5F Galloping Stallion by Melody Bober (FJH) Intermediate $1.50

SOLD #6F Pomp and Circumstance by Sir Edward Elgar arranged by Willard A. Palmer"Simply Classics" (Alfred) Early Intermediate $1.25

#7F Rondo alla Turca by W.A. Mozart arranged by Willard A. Palmer "SimplyClassics" (Alfred) Early Intermediate $0.50 Neat highlighting in first 3measures.

SOLD #8F Storm at Sea by Steve Nehrenberg (FJH) $1.25Early Intermediate

#9F Elegy in E by Carolyn C. Setliff (FJH) $1.50 LateElementary

#10F Valse Chimerique by Geoffrey Carroll (Willis) Advanced $1.00

SOLD #11F Fur Elise by Ludwig van Beethoven (Hal Leonard) $2.00 Original piece, not shortened or simplified.

Other

#1G Federation Festivals Bulletin 2011, 2012, 2013 (NFMC) $1.00 A few markings on a few pages.

SOLD #2G Grab Bag: Random printed worksheets, studio businessresource sheets, games etc… FREE

SOLD #3G Piano Recital Certificates: 1.5 packs for $1.00

SOLD #4G Sight Reading and Rhythm Every Day: Book 3A by Helen Marlais and Kevin Olson (FJH) $3.25

SOLD #5G How to Teach Piano Successfully by James W. Bastien (KJOS) 2nd Edition $1.00 Light pencil markings on front cover and first page. Otherwise in great condition.

#6G How to Understand and Listen to Great Music: Part 6 of 6: Romanticism-Modernism by Robert Greenberg (The Teaching Company) FREE Contains 4 cassette tapes and companion booklet in good condition.

Music Sale: Intermediate Performance Books

2011-12-28T14:14:00.003-06:00

IntermediatePerformance Books

~SOLD~ #1E Sacred Songs and Solos: Book 1 by Margaret Goldston (Alfred) $4.00

~SOLD~ #2E Treasures for Two: Book 2 by Martha Mier(Alfred) $1.00 Has measure numbers written in pencil on one piece only and alittle marking on contents page.

~SOLD~ #3E Rock 'n Roll Level 3 by Faber and Faber $1.00 Markings on cover and 3 out of14 pieces.

SOLD #4E Lewis and Clark: A Musical Expedition by Tom Gerou (Alfred) $3.50

SOLD 1 copy, 1 copy still for sale#5E Spelling at the Piano: Improvisations Based on the Music Alphabet by Frederick Werle (FJH)$2.25 I have 2 1 copies of this book for sale.

SOLD Both Copies #6E Scenes from Around the World: A Musical Tour by Carol Matz (FJH) $2.25 I have 2 copies of this book for sale.

SOLD #7E Standing Ovations by Melody Bober (FJH) $2.50

SOLD #8E Preludes in Patterns by Kevin Olson (FJH) $2.75

Music Sale: Bastien and Alfred

2011-12-28T14:12:00.000-06:00

Method Books:

Bastien and Alfred

SOLD #1D Piano Party Book A by Jane Smissor Bastien (KJOS) $3.00

SOLD #2D Theory and Ear Training Party by Jane Smissor Bastien (KJOS) $3.00

SOLD #3D Traditional Primer Piano Lessons by James Bastien (KJOS) FREE Well worncover, light pencil markings on a few pages.

SOLD #4D Piano Solos: Traditional Primer Level by James Bastien and Jane SmissorBastien $1.00 Light markings on front cover.

SOLD #5D Technic Book Level 1A: Alfred’s Basic Piano Library by Palmer, Manus, andLethco (Alfred) FREE Well worn, markedup, stickers

SOLD #6D The First Book of Scales, Chords, Arpeggios, and Cadences by Palmer, Manus,and Lethco (Alfred) $1.00 Worn cover, a few markings inside.

SOLD #7D Fun Book: Level 1B Alfred's Basic Piano Library by Palmer, Manus, and LethcoFREE Well worn cover, markings and stickers on inside.

SOLD #8D Lesson Book: Level 2 Alfred's Basic Piano Library by Palmer, Manus, and Lethco FREE Well worn cover, markings, and stickers on inside.

Music Sale: Faber and Faber

2011-12-28T14:09:00.001-06:00

Method Books:

Faber and Faber

SOLD Both Copies #1C My First Piano Adventures Lesson Book C by Faber and Faber (FJH) $4.00 I amselling 2 copies of this book.

SOLD #2C Piano Adventures Primer Level: Lesson Book Background Accompaniments on CD$5.50 Still in shrink wrapped package.

SOLD #3C Piano Adventures Primer Level: Performance Book by Faber and Faber (FJH)FREE Well worn, marked up, stickers

SOLD #4C Piano Adventures Primer Level: Theory Book by Faber and Faber (FJH) FREE The first 11 out of 48 pages are workedin.

SOLD #5C Piano Adventures Level One: Theory Book by Faber and Faber (FJH) FREE The first 13 out of 40 pages are workedin.

SOLD #6C Piano Adventures Level 2A: Lesson Book by Nancy and Randall Faber (FJH) FREEWell worn, marked up, stickers.

SOLD #7C Piano Adventures Level 2B: Theory Book by Nancy and Randall Faber(FJH) FREE The first 13 pages out of 40 have been worked in.

SOLD #8C Accelerated Piano Adventures Book 1: Lesson Book FREE Marked up

SOLD #9C Accelerated Piano Adventures Book 1: Technique and Artistry Book FREE Markedup

SOLD #10C Accelerated Piano Adventures Book 1: Performance Book FREE Marked up

SOLD Both Copies #11C Adult Piano Adventures Level 1 by Faber and Faber (FJH) $8.00 Selling2 copies of this book.

Music Books for Sale: Repertoire Based Methods

2011-12-28T14:05:00.000-06:00

Method Books:

Repertoire Based

SOLD #1B Exploring Piano Classics Level 1: Repertoire Book with CD by NancyBachus (Alfred) $5.00

SOLD #2B Exploring Piano Classics Level 1: Technique Book by Nancy Bachus (Alfred) $4.50

SOLD #3B Exploring Piano Classics Level 2: Repertoire Book with CD by NancyBachus (Alfred) $5.50

SOLD #4B Exploring Piano Classics Level 2: Technique Book by Nancy Bachus (Alfred) $5.00

#5B Baroque and Classical Piano Repertoire: Preparatory Level by Keith Snell(KJOS) $1.00 Very light and few pencil markings throughout book.

SOLD #6B Etudes: Preparatory Level by Keith Snell (KJOS) $2.00

#7B Fundamentals of Piano Theory: Level 4 by Keith Snell and Martha Ashleigh(KJOS) $3.00

#8B Everybody’s Perfect Masterpieces: Volume Two by Bigler and Lloyd-Watts(Alfred) FREE, many pencil markings, worn cover

SOLD #9B Twelve Easy Studies for the Piano by Kohler Op. 157 (Schirmer)$1.00 Slightly worn, one marking on onepage.

SOLD #10B Essential Piano Repertoire: Level 1 Book with CD by Keith Snell (KJOS) $1.00 Light pencil markings throughout book. CD lightly used but in good condition.

Going Out of Business Studio Sale: Lots of Music Books! Succeeding at the Piano

2011-12-28T11:23:00.001-06:00

MethodBooks

Succeedingat the Piano

SOLD #4A Succeeding at the Piano: Recital Book with CD PreparatoryLevel by Helen Marlais (FJH) $3.25

SOLD #5A Succeeding at the Piano: Lesson and Technique Grade 1 Book with CD by HelenMarlais (FJH) $4.50

SOLD #6A Succeeding at the Piano: Theory and Activity Book Grade 1 by Helen Marlais(FJH) $3.25

SOLD #7A Succeeding at the Piano: Recital Grade 1 Book with CD by Helen Marlais (FJH)$1 Measure numbers written in pencil on one piece only.

Bury Me Beneath the Willow

2011-11-26T13:57:00.001-06:00

I love playing through this book every so often, finding new gems, and being reminded of familiar ones.

My favorite one for today is so sad, but the tune is really lovely.

In Sandburg's version it's the guy who skips out on the wedding and the girl dies.

"How does the tune go," a mountaineer was once asked, "It's sad like."

I'm partial to Chris Thile's version here:

Beauty

2011-11-26T12:40:00.001-06:00

Why do we care what something looks like? Why are some things beautiful? Why is it that fashion doesn’t reallydetermine beauty? How is beauty avirtue?

Is it because God created beauty and we are image bearers?

Is it because there are more dimensions to experiences inheaven and the future world? Because, wedon’t fully experience the universe here in all it’s perfection and depth? Do the things we call beautiful happen tocontain part of that true order that’s a glimpse of the true reality we’llexperience one day? Are they shadows ofreal beauty?

Winston Churchill

2011-11-26T11:20:00.001-06:00

"If you're going through hell, keep going."

Perspective

2011-11-26T10:37:00.001-06:00

"Ask yourself this question: 'Will this matter a year from now?'" ~Richard Carlson

Elisabeth Elliot

2011-11-26T09:55:00.001-06:00

“It is always possible to be thankful for what is given rather than resentful over what is withheld–one attitude or the other becomes a way of life.”

Habakkuk 3:17-18

2011-11-25T22:47:00.001-06:00

"Though the fig tree should not blossom,
And there be no fruit on the vines,
Though the yield of the olive should fail,
And the fields produce no food,
Though the flock should be cut off from the fold,
And there be no cattle in the stalls,
Yet I will exult in the Lord,
I will rejoice in the God of my salvation."

Thank You’s and I Guess So’s

2011-11-25T20:45:00.001-06:00

A Belated Thanksgiving Letter

I can’t be thankful for anything stationary. There are some things I’ve been thankful forthe last 11 years, but I don’t know if they’ll still be there a month fromnow. The familiar might not be, some won’tbe in four weeks.

So what doesn’t change? What could you be thankful for whether you lived on the moon, Timbuktu, or just home, which is much sweeter than I ever imagined?

Do people really change? Or, just their circumstances. Imean, I miss by best friend because of her insisting I share her opinion. I’ll miss her because she is hopelessly, andI mean hopelessly romantic. She haschocolate and rose water flowing through her veins. I’ll miss her because the world is morebeautiful through her eyes, more because she has loved me for so long. Those things don’t change do they?

I love my Mama because she knows me better than any bodyelse. I love her because she loves so, so much. She’s so unselfish, yet so human. She can be so funny, or so serious. But, then I guess all good mamas are.

So, I guess I can be thankful for people who love me….forpeople I can love back….

I won’t be living in the same house in 36 days. So, I can’t be thankful for this roof. These shingles are home though, I don’t knowhow to shake it. I don’t know howsomeone’s else’s house will be my home. I mean, they’re only acquaintances to me, but I won’t just be visitingthis time. Will my new bedroom becomehome? Or will it be family? Or, will I feel like a stranger the wholetime?

So, is home just feeling accepted, a location that’s partand parcel to yourself. Is home a placeto feel safe and relaxed? Is it a placeof the closest fellowship?

I guess I would have that on the moon. Isn’t that the Trinity? Where is God?

I guess I’m writingthis to smile at myself.

I can’t be thankful for privacy, God knows I won’t have muchof that soon.

No thank you very much for even knowing how to get to thelibrary, no familiar roads.

No small world running intos. My world’s expanded too much.

No more thinking I know my family, it’s just grown from 4 to6.

But, I do have people, their personalities andrelationships. Thank you God.

I do have my dreams, the person God has made and is makingme, my quirks and internal enemies. Thank you dear Jesus.

I do have You. You,who searched all over this wicked world for this wicked child. And, you know what you did, you bought me backand brought me home.

So, I guess more than anything I’m grateful thisthanksgiving for the one who place the sun and moon in the sky. They’re still hanging there, and even ifthose strings were cut You’d still be there. You are constant, eternal, You are love and grace. You pray for me. You loved me so much, gave everything forlittle old me, that I must give everything back in return.

You make my heart beat every morning, so I can give. You pick me up when I forget what You did andgo back to my selfish ways. You remindme of all your good. You are grace.

Thank you,
Ana E

2011: Reading

2011-01-02T16:26:00.002-06:00

Read Luke 15-20 minutes per day until I've listened to all of Mark Driscoll's series (afternoon/evening)
Continue reading OT, NT, and devotional book every day (morning)
Read a novel every week (night)
Read a non-fiction book every month (afternoon/month)

2011: Sermons

2011-01-01T14:08:00.003-06:00

I'm determined to listen to more sermons this year, including:

Mars Hill Church
John Piper
Behemoth
Dr. Morecraft

Happy New Year's from Dixie

2010-12-31T13:04:00.002-06:00

~Greens for money~
~Black eyed peas for luck~
~Cornbread for wealth~

In the midst of these fun traditions,
don't forget to rejoice that through Christ
we no longer look to superstition for hope.
The Word become Flesh is sufficient every day.

Contrivance for Our Redemption

2010-12-29T11:18:00.000-06:00

"BY this contrivance for our redemption, God’s greatest dishonor is made an occasion of his greatest glory. Sin is a thing by which God is greatly dishonored. The nature of its principle is enmity against God, and contempt of him. And man, by his rebellion, has greatly dishonored God. But this dishonor, by the contrivance of our redemption, is made an occasion of the greatest manifestation of God’s glory that ever was.

Sin, the greatest evil, is made an occasion of the greatest good. It is the nature of a principle of sin that it seeks to dethrone God. But this is made an occasion of the greatest manifestation of God’s royal majesty and glory that ever was. By sin, man has slighted and despised God, but this is made an occasion of his appearing the more greatly honorable. Sin casts contempt upon the authority and law of God. But this, by the contrivance of our redemption, is made the occasion of the greatest honour done to that same authority, and to that very law. It was a greater honor to the law of God that Christ was subject to it, and obeyed it, than if all mankind had obeyed it. It was greater honor to God’s authority that Christ showed such great respect, and such entire subjection to it, than the perfect obedience of all the angels in heaven. Man by his sin showed his enmity against the holiness of God. But this is made an occasion of the greatest manifestation of God’s holiness. The holiness of God never appeared to so great a degree, as when God executed vengeance upon his own dear Son."

Johnathon Edwards
"The Wisdom of God, Displayed in the Way of Salvation"

Just Close Your Eyes

2010-11-29T17:54:00.003-06:00

I'm learning how important it is to stop, close my eyes, and just listen while my students are playing. The written music, my notes for the student, and the student's hands distract from hearing the music pouring forth from the instrument.

Today I played the first page of a student's piece and asked her to listen and then tell me the differences in her playing and my playing of the piece. To my amazement, she rattled off a long list of contrasts. Then, she told me she caught all of that because she closed her eyes because she had noticed me doing so during her lessons.

I get so distracted with all the little things in life that I don't hear what God is teaching me through everything. I see what has to be done, what I want to do, and what didn't get done.

The issue is not that I'm doing too much. The problem is that I see my day chopped up by individual tasks. A day should be a unified time of service, stopping to listen to the one lesson God is teaching me throughout the whole day.

A better planned schedule or task list is not the answer, no more than staring at the written page is the answer for my teaching. A better motive and attitude should be my focus, to stop and listen every minute, to hear the melody that God is shaping throughout my life.

Remembering

2010-11-28T15:23:00.002-06:00

"As you see, she had got the order wrong. That was because she had given up saying the signs over every night. She still really knew them, if she troubled to think: but she was no longer so "pat" in her lesson as to be sure of reeling them off in the right order at a moment's notice and without thinking. Puddleglum's question annoyed her because, deep down inside her, she was already annoyed with herself for not knowing the Lion's lesson quite so well as she felt she ought to have known it. This annoyance, added to the misery of being very cold and tired, made her say, "Bother the signs." She didn't perhaps quite mean it."
~The Silver Chair

Do I only know the lessons of my God and Savior? Do I have to really think to dig them out? Or am I disciplined to constantly know Scripture when I need it?

Do I purposefully remember?

"Therefore you shall lay up these words of mine in your heart and in your soul, and bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall teach them to your children, speaking of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. And you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates, that your days and the days of your children may be multiplied in the land of which the LORD swore to your fathers to give them, like the days of the heavens above the earth. "

~Deuteronomy 11:18-21

My Manifesto

2010-11-27T10:48:00.001-06:00

I want to be a woman content in all circumstances,
striving for excellence in every season
to furthering the kingdom of God
through the grace of my Lord Jesus Christ.

Distractions

2010-11-26T16:44:00.002-06:00

"In the second place, whatever the Lady had intended by telling them about Harfang, the actual effect on the children was a bad one. They could think about nothing but beds and baths and hot meals and how lovely it would be to get indoors. They never talked about Aslan, or even about the lost Prince, now. And Jill gave up her habit of repeating the signs over to herself every night and morning. She said to herself, at first, that she was too tired, but she soon forgot all about it. And though you might have expected that the idea of having a good time at Harfang would have made them more cheerful, it really made them more sorry for themselves and more grumpy and snappy with each other and with Puddleglum."

~The Silver Chair

Again!

2010-06-07T19:51:00.005-05:00

Today as I was teaching my students in preparation for the recital this Saturday, several were still having trouble with continuity and their own peculiar trouble spots. With all the repetition to get each section perfect, I felt like Coach Herb Brooks in this scene from the movie "Miracle." lol!

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In Philippians, we are told, "Rejoice in the lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!" Finding and keeping joy is definitely a Christian discipline.

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Today I filled gift bags for my piano students. I can't wait to share with you what is in them next week and how I plan on them being used throughout the next year.

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I received this book in the mail today and am excited to start using it with several of my students. I may even try to arm twist my brother or a student into learning "The Water is Wide" The selections include a ragtime, lyrical songs, a march, an imitation piece, and even a "Holiday Waltz." The parts are well evenly divided and very well suited for early intermediate students.

Celebrated Piano Duets Book 3 by Robert D. Vandall -He also composed the wonderful and popular "Fly with the Eagles" Duet.

What Paul Had to Say about David

2010-06-07T19:44:00.002-05:00

" 'And afterward they asked for a king; so God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years.
And when He had removed him, He raised up for them David as king, to whom also He gave testimony and said 'I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.'
'From this man's seed, according to the promise, God raised up for Israel a Savior-Jesus-' "

Acts 13:21-23

Power Struggles Part I C: "That All the Earth May Know That There Is a God in Israel"

2010-06-06T20:22:00.007-05:00

*I split Part 1 up into 3 posts because it's SO long.*
*I know the big print below looks ridiculous, but blogger refuses to keep all the font the same size for me.*

Saul's next big battle is against the Philistines. They send out a champion to challenge them. Now what kind of leader do you have when you chose him to fight your battles for you in the first place and then he won't answer a challenge? Let's just say the enemy's size and swagger are a bit intimidating when you have no one but yourself to turn to. So, Saul calls on the men of Israel and offers tax exemption for the victor's whole family and a pretty girl as the reward.

A young man named David has been anointed by the Lord to be a future king of Israel. He happens to be delivering supplies to his older brothers in the army and hears Goliath's challenge. His first response acknowledges that these are not Saul's armies, "Who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?" (1 Samuel 17:26) His brother rebukes him saying he's gotten a bit cocky and that all he really wanted to do was see some fighting action. "And David said, 'What have I done now? Is there not a cause?" (1 Samuel 17:29)

Once David passes Saul's inspection and is on the battle field. Goliath mocks him and, " cursed David by his gods." (vs.43) David turns right around and curses the giant by his God:

" 'You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.

'This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.

'Then all the assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord's and He will give you into our hands.' "

~1 Samuel 17:45-47~

David calls upon the Lord for the destruction of the enemy. He places himself in the position of a soldier, an instrument in the army of the Lord of hosts. In verse 48 it says that David "ran" towards his opponent. Unlike Saul, he knew whose battle this was and who would give the victory.

Now understand, the Philistines are not sitting there wondering who on earth this "Lord" is. They heard the stories about Egypt, Amalek, and Jericho. They've seen Samson's strength and their god Dagon fall on his face before the Ark of the Covenant. They suffered under the cancer and plague brought by capturing the Ark of God's people.

Goliath may have cursed by Dagon, Odysseus by Athena, and Augustus Caesar by Mars, but which of these men knew that their gods would stand by them every time? Which of these men saw their people preserved through eternity because they were chosen?

This is no children's story about a little boy with five stones and a sling. This is about a man who understood the power struggle in his world. He understood that his nation was losing in this power struggle, that his country was acting no better than the pagans surrounding them. However, he also knew that his country, which he would one day rule, had been set apart by the God who will win the power struggle in the end. And he had to get his people back on the winning side.

David challenged the Philistine so that "all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel." He didn't just want the little bitty Canaanite city states to know there was a God in Israel. This was to be declared to the whole world that their God would one day "have dominion also from sea to sea, And from the River to the ends of the earth. Those who dwell in the wilderness will bow before Him, And His enemies will lick the dust....Yes, all kings shall fall down before Him; All nations shall serve Him." (Psalm 76:8,9,11)

David proclaimed to all the earth that they should know that there is a God in Israel. That, they didn't just serve a god that could be added to the Philistines' or the Greeks' or the Persians' shelves of dust collectors. No, where calling on the name of Ishtar, Zeus, or Diana may or may not give you help depending on how the oracle was feeling that day, this is where the God of Israel's name stands: "His name shall endure forever; His name shall continue as long as the sun. And men shall be blessed in Him; All nations shall be blessed in Him; All nations shall call Him blessed." (Psalm 72)

Hallelujah! May we say with David and Solomon about our Lord Jesus Christ:

"Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel,
Who only does wondrous things!
And blessed be His glorious name forever!
And let the whole earth be filled with His glory.
Amen and Amen
The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended"

~Psalm 72~A Messianic Psalm by Solomon the son of David

Power Struggles Part I B: "That All the Earth May Know That There Is a God in Israel"

2010-06-06T20:22:00.006-05:00

*I split Part 1 up into 3 posts because it's SO long.*

Let's take a quick look at the reign of their first king, Saul, whom they wanted so badly. He starts a sacrifice without Samuel before a battle, keeps plunder for himself, spares the killing of a pagan king, and lies to the Lord's prophet.

"When you were little in your own eyes, were you not head of the tribes of Israel? And did not the Lord anoint you king over Israel?" 1 Samuel 15:17

Is it not enough to receive power from God and humbly serve Him for His glory?

"I have sinned, for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice." 1 Samuel 15:24

Now the people are ruling, Israel is now a democracy. Or, is it that Saul is using the democracy's voice for what his flesh wants, which then turns into tyranny?

Power Struggles Part I A: "That All the Earth May Know That There Is a God in Israel"

2010-06-06T17:39:00.017-05:00

*I split Part 1 up into 3 posts because it's SO long.*
*I know the big print below looks ridiculous, but blogger refuses to keep all the font the same size for me.*

Authority, politics, power struggles, and war are familiar faces to the inhabitants of this world. It started in the Garden between choosing the serpent's deceiving words and God's admonition and continues today as we vote for state primaries this month.

Who gives the final word? Which leader deserves our allegiance? How will he fight our battles?

I'd like to start this series with a look at Israel's first taste of having a king, the politics, and the power struggles that led to a young man bringing Isreal's eyes back to He who has "dominion also from sea to sea, And from the River to the ends of the earth." (Psalms 72:8)

"Then all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah, and said to him. 'Look, you are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now make for us a king to judge us like all the nations.' " 1 Samuel 8:5

Translation: You've been in office WAY too long, your kids wouldn't ever make good leaders, and we're getting tired (again!) of being this tiny little country who does everything different from the countries we're surrounded by so lets try some nasty pagan politics.

Samuel, doesn't have a good feeling about this though and God responds: "Heed the voice of the people in all that they say to you; for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them. According to all the works which they have done since the day that I brought them up out of Egypt, even to this day--with which they have forsaken Me and served other gods--so they are doing to you also." - 1 Samuel 8:7-8

"This issue started back when your ancestors were going in circles in the desert. They did not, and still do not want to serve Me as their one sovereign Lord. They keep allowing idols to take over their hearts. I have called My people, but they do not want to be My people. The hook is off you Samuel, it's not that your campaign strategy didn't work, Israel has a serious rebellion issue. Now tell them the dangers of having a king."

"Nevertheless the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel; and they said, 'No, but we will have a king over us, that we also may be like all the nations, and that our king may judge us and go out before us and fight our battles.' "

~1 Samuel 8:19

If you sit down and read Herodotus or Livy, you read of pagan king after pagan king leading their forces out into battle. Livy tells of the early Roman republic's consuls acting as warriors. David wasn't supposed to be at home when that mess started with Bathsheba. Even our own president is considered as Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. It makes sense that the leader of a nation should fight the battles.

The issue here is the motive behind having a king. God wanted Israel to eventually have a king. He gives rules for their kings in Deuteronomy. But, now Israel wants the control over their battles to be in the hands of a man, not in the hands of Yaweh.

England

2009-10-18T21:11:00.001-05:00

Apron

2009-06-17T20:19:00.002-05:00

I just finished an apron, but Blogger has decided not to allow me to upload the photos tonight. In the meantime, if you'd like to see them, go to my Facebook album.

A Bit of an Update

2009-06-17T19:44:00.004-05:00

I’m back! (For a short while anyway.)

Although headed in some new directions, I’m still wrapping up a bit of high school. Between high school graduation, my 18th birthday, and fellowship with friends from Texas, the end of May was rather jam-packed. I recently purchased a better camera, which means less frustration on my part and more photos for you.

This Tuesday I arrived home from Kentucky where I visited grandparents. More frequent trips up north may be in store due to several health challenges my grandfather is facing. On Sunday I’m leaving to spend two weeks as a mommy’s helper for a church family. Painting the house, learning skills from Domestic Day Camps, sewing for my Etsy shop, and studying for my England trip will fill up my time afterward. This fall I’m planning on enrolling in College Plus! with an English major in mind and teaching private piano and a beginning writing class.

Blessings!
Ana

I won't be able to participate, but I thought I would spread the word:

Fashion Giveaway

2009-02-14T18:59:00.001-06:00

Christ Taylor is hosting a great giveaway for Eliza Magazine.

Culinary and Musical Delights

2009-02-07T22:05:00.001-06:00

Check out my newest blog for culinary musicians:

Gastronomic Improvisations

Modesty Carnival...It's Here!

2009-02-02T15:03:00.002-06:00

My First Blog Award

2009-01-27T21:38:00.005-06:00

I must admit this took me aback.
1) I've never received one
2) I've nearly disappeared from posting on my blogs lately.

However, I must offer a bouquet of gratitude to dear Bria, one of the precious lights of that dear valley in Ashville. I now offer this award to some of my friends who have done a much more admirable job lately to their faithful readers:

Jessica:
Because you never fail to give me something to laugh about, to show me another corner of God's wonderful world, or to reawaken the wonder and joy of friendship.

Tiffany:
You're a bit calmer version of why I love your sister's blog. Your beautiful photography and extractions of the simple beauty of home life are an "eye in the storm."

Jasmine:
Because we were separated at the hospital! But, also because of your God given gift for communicating truth so clearly and beautifully.

Jocelyn:
You work so hard all the time to change the world for Christ. You are truly a doer, not simply a hearer of the Word.

Kayla:
You're new on the blogsphere, but I've known you, well, all my life. From trampolines and baby dolls, to sleeping under the aunt's picture at Grandma's, to guys and growing up, it's been an interesting road together as cousins.

Alyssa and Christine:
Because of your wonderful work for the body of Christ. You're doing "hard things" half way around the world, but sometimes I feel like ya'll are right next door.

Sarah Jane:
I don't have to tell you why. Just kidding! You're mission in life is to make me laugh, and you do an awesome job of it.
Elise: the Editrix
Because of your love for art and literature and your very own, lovely, every-day-way of sharing it.

The Boyd Ladies:
Because of your delightful presence every Sunday and your clear, simple way of explaining the skills and joys of home.

Mrs. Fanning:
Because of your amazing skill at making me laugh at almost everything that happens at your house.

Here's the rules:

Thank the person who awarded you, and then award 10 people and link their blog to their name. Then tell the person they received an award.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I promise I will eventually come back around to posting on a more regular basis (I have a project up my sleeve I hope to reveal next week). In the meantime, you'll be more likely to find me on twitter and Facebook, just check out the sidebar to find me there.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The Latest in Blog Designers

2009-01-13T11:37:00.003-06:00

Two new Blog design services recently arrived on the blogosphere:

My history blog was recently redone by Deep South Blog Design. They provide classic and historically inspired backgrounds.

Deep South has also started Girls Just Wanna Have Blogs for their more feminine masterpieces.

Calling All Etymology Enthusiasts and Literature Lovers!

2009-01-08T20:15:00.003-06:00

Check out my new blog:

Words Aplenty:
The Expanding of a Vocabulary...365 Times Over

Dream Coming True

2009-01-07T22:52:00.001-06:00

Read about a dream coming true for me and how you can help.

Reminder!

2009-01-04T21:30:00.000-06:00

Sense and Sensibility Patterns Holiday Sale
~
Everything 10% off!
~
Ends midnight, tonight!

Sense and Sensibility Patterns offers elegant, delightful, and historically correct costume patterns for women, girls, and dolls. The selection spans from Regency (Jane Austen) to the Swing Era.

All of the wonderful patterns S&S offers are now available at a reduced price as instantly downloadable ePatterns.

And, don't forget to check out the charming and educational dollar downloads uploaded from yester-year.

Hurry, the sale ends midnight, tonight!

Vision Forum Free Downloads!

2009-01-02T19:25:00.007-06:00

If I were to make a list of the ministries and resources that have influenced and changed my family the most, Vision Forum would be at #2 or #3. Vision Forum can't help but change every family it reaches because their whole mission is to disciple and transform families into world changers by carrying out the Great Commission and the Dominion Mandate.

Vision Forum is currently offering free downloads from Behemoth.com (their alternative to iTunes):

Purchase $25 worth of any combination of Vision Forum products and receive Why Christian Manhood Must Prevail (audio) FREE at Behemoth.com!

Purchase $50 worth of any of any combination of Vision Forum products and receive Training Dominion Oriented Daughters (video) & Why Christian Manhood Must Prevail (audio) FREE at Behemoth.com!

Purchase $75 worth of any of any combination of Vision Forum products and receive Jonathan Park Goes to the Aquarium (audio), Training Dominion Oriented Daughters (video) & Why Christian Manhood Must Prevail (audio) FREE at Behemoth.com!

Purchase $100 worth of any of any combination of Vision Forum products and receive Entrepreneurial Bootcamp for Christian Families (video collection), Jonathan Park Goes to the Aquarium (audio), Training Dominion Oriented Daughters (video) & Why Christian Manhood Must Prevail (audio message) FREE at Behemoth.com!

The following are some of my favorite Vision Forum resources for young ladies:

So Much More by the Botkin sisters is the book for encouragement and guidance for young ladies to not just survive, but thrive while living against the cultural tide of the twenty-first century.

The Return of the Daughters is a follow-up documentary by the Botkin sisters to their book So Much More. The interviews of several amazing young ladies provide new hope and vision. They discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Christian young women who are striving to live out Scripture in every area of their lives.

Mother by Kathleen Norris is a reprinted novel about a young woman who learns the beauty of home and family. The introduction by editor Jennie Chancey is another excellent reminder of the importance found in the people that surround us.

Jennie B. and the Pilot: This audio talk given at one of the Father and Daughter Retreats is the story of a woman who journeyed from loving homemaking, to staunch feminist, and back home again. (Jennie Chancey's retelling of her story alone is inspiring, but my personal experiences with her have imprinted the lessons even further. She truly lives and breathes the grandeur and simple beauties of home.)

Sense and Sensibility Patterns Sale!

2009-01-02T18:34:00.004-06:00

Sense and Sensibility Patterns Holiday Sale
~
Everything 10% off!
~
Ends midnight, January 4, 2009

Sense and Sensibility Patterns offers elegant, delightful, and historically correct costume patterns for women, girls, and dolls. The selection spans from Regency (Jane Austen) to the Swing Era.

Prayer

2008-12-31T16:03:00.004-06:00

Most of the time I get so caught up in my wants and needs that my prayer life consists of mediocre whining to God, asking Him to pull me out of discomfort. Subsequently, I feel the furthest from God when my communication with Him is that pathetic. When I'm able to crucify flesh for a moment, and focus on the needs of others, I feel much closer to my Savior. One thing that helps me with this, once my heart has been straightened out, is to have specific prayer requests about the big problems of this world. The following are some that I've been praying about lately:

Open Doors: This is the ministry of Brother Andrew (author of God's Smuggler) that reaches out to the persecuted church by providing Bibles, Christian literature, and leadership/pastoral training. At their website you can print off a monthly prayer calender and sign up for weekly email prayer updates.

Never Silence Life: This organization was started by the Christian Contemporary band, Barlow Girls, to spread awareness and action on behalf of the infant genocide our country has embraced. Their website has a list of things to pray for throughout a 21 day fast. Although I am not participating in the fast, I have begun praying through the list on a daily basis.

Persecution Project Foundation: This organization ministers to the persecuted African church, mainly to the Darfur conflict in Sudan.

What prayer requests are important to you?
Are there any you are aware of that the whole Church should be praying for, that you can share with us?

Jesus Loves the Church

2008-12-31T15:58:00.002-06:00

Writing my last post reminded me of this thought-provoking and convicting song. Written my my all-time favorite guitarist, Phil Keaggy, and Sheila Walsh, this songs serves as an excellent reminder of the church's role as a bride:

You say that You believe in us,
At times I wonder why
You say You see the Father in our eyes.
But I think if I were You, Lord,
I'd wash my hands today,
And turn my back on all our alibis.

And we crucify each other,
Leaving a battered, wounded bride,
But Jesus loves the church.
So we'll walk the aisle of history,
Towards the marriage feast,
For Jesus loves the church.

We fight like selfish children,
Vying for that special prize,
We juggle with our gifts before Your face.
And I know You look with sorrow
At the blindness in our eyes
As we trip each other half-way thru the race.

And we crucify each other,
Leaving a battered, wounded bride,
But Jesus loves the church.
So we'll walk the aisle of history,
Towards the marriage feast,
For Jesus loves the church.

I want to learn to love like You,
I don't know where to start,
I want to see them all but through Your eyes.
For You believed enough to live
Amidst the maddened crowd
Enough to die before our very eyes.

But we crucify each other,
Leaving a battered, wounded bride,
But Jesus loves the church.
And so we'll walk the aisle of history,
Towards the marriage feast,
For Jesus loves the church.
Yes we'll walk the aisle of history,
Towards the marriage feast,
For Jesus loves the church.

And as He hung in naked grief,
Bleeding for our crimes
He saw our fickle hearts and cried, I Love You.

Redeemed Damsels

2008-12-30T21:46:00.005-06:00

Lately God's been pulling me closer to Him, and the longing I feel for Him is so similar to the longing I feel for a relationship with a man...that wanting to be loved and to have an intimate friendship.

I've been looking at fairy tales differently. There's a reason we long for a prince to pull this lonesome damsel from distress. We are in distress. We are sinful human beings surrounded by many other sinful human beings in a fallen world.

Elisabeth Elliot once said that you can't help but marry a sinner. Even when we do have a man-even a strong, godly man in our lives-it is impossible for him to fill every void, to truly be constant in every single situation. That's because he is only a glimpse of Christ. Man is commanded to love woman "just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it." (Ephesians 6:25)

He is called to be a picture of Christ, but he's just that: an imitation, a striving for what Christ is. Just as we females are only a pathetic view of what Christ's bride should be, "a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish." (Ephesians 6:27)

So, although our longing for a relationship with a man is normal-and it should be there-only Christ can completely fill that hole in our hearts. I don't believe a woman is fully deserving of the beautiful relationship of marriage, until she has truly understood fidelity in her relationship to Christ. Not until He is her singular passion, can she truly revel in the significance of marriage that should continue to point her towards Jesus Christ.

So, please don't push that longing away. But, do not allow the fleeting relationships of many men to replace the void that only Christ can fill. And don't expect that fidelity to one human man will fill that void.

Save both places in your heart. The one that God fashioned just for the one man that will take care of you during your life here on earth. And, even more importantly, that even larger place that Christ will fill now, and throughout eternity.

Only Christ is truly faithful and loving. He beats Fitzwilliam Darcy and Cary Grant hands down, ten times over. Christ always knows what we need, whether it's what we want or not. And yes, He has a home prepared where He will carry His redeemed damsel to a longing fulfilled...for eternity.

Writing History

2008-12-26T17:56:00.001-06:00

Check out my history blog to see how I recently imitated the father of history:

Part I
Part II

Christmas Meme

2008-12-23T15:30:00.003-06:00

Hannah G. tagged me several weeks ago, here it is among my backlog of tags to catch up on:

Welcome to the Christmas edition of getting to know your family and friends.

Okay, here's what you're supposed to do, and try not to be a SCROOGE!!!

Change all the answers so that they apply to you.

Then tag a whole bunch of people you know. Tis the Season to be NICE!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper! What fun is there is pulling a present out of a bag?

2. Real or fake tree? Fake every year but one. That year was a lesson in how serious we should take mom's allergies.

3. When do you put up a tree? Usually really soon after Thanksgiving. This year it got put up a few days before Thanksgiving due to a hectic schedule. But, the ornaments didn't get on until my grandparents were here last week.

4. When do you take it down? Usually sometime in January. One year we took it down on Valentine's Day!

5. Do you like eggnog? I LOVE eggnog. Sure is fattening though...

6. Favorite gift received as a child? Toss up between my American Girl Kirsten doll when I was 7 and some nice, winter dresses when I was 9.

7. Hardest person to buy for? Everyone in my immediate family is pretty easy, it's extended family I have trouble with. Thank goodness my dad's family started Dirty Santa several years ago!

8. Easiest person to buy for? My 13 year old brother

9. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Uhh...when was the last time we did cards?

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Can't think of one for me, there's some embarrassing stories in my extended family though.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Toughie...The Nativity Story, The Christmas Box, It's a Wonderful Life, I don't know?!?

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? It's different every year. This year I did it all in the first weekend of December.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Don't think so...

15. Favourite thing to eat at Christmas? Oh, gracious me...how are you supposed to choose when you live in the Heart of Dixie?

16. Lights on the tree? I LOVE lights. White lights are my favorite. I can't stand twinkling lights though.

17. Favorite Christmas song? Arghh...I hate this kind of question, my brother loves to bug me with these. Mary Did You Know, The First Noel, It Came Upon a Midnight Clear, Carol of the Bells, Have Your Self a Merry Little Christmas, What Child is This?, The Holly and the Ivy, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Coventry Carol, Ding, Dong Merrily on High, I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day, Auld Lang Syne....

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? We usually stay home on Christmas day but travel in state to extended family during the Christmas season.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Donner, Dancer, Prancer, Blitzen, Dixen, Rudolph, uhhh...guess not!

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Star!

21. Open presents on Christmas Eve or morning? Morning! Except this year, my grandparents from Kentucky came down last week. We never get to have Christmas with them, so we opened most of our presents then.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? That the radio station repeats the same lineup of artists and songs over and over. Come on people, there's a plethora of Christmas songs and versions to choose from!

23. Favorite Ornament theme or color? Silver, white, and deep red.

24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Told you already, it's to tough when you live in the Deep South!

25. Favorite Decorations? My mom's snowman "choir" on top of the piano.

26. What do you want for Christmas this year? Well, we did presents early this year, and I was so busy, I didn't think much about what I wanted. So, what I got was: a lot of Christmas music, my favorite~Noel by Josh Groban; a bio. of Bach; book about card making; Vision Forum's Scotland tour cds; fancy pens; kitchen gadgets; The Landmark Herodotus; and jewelry. Wrap that up together with me and you've got a very happy girl!

I tag: Sarah Jane, Sarah Beth, and Tiffany

Daily Routine

2008-12-23T15:29:00.000-06:00

Nastya tagged me!

~ THE RULES ~

1 - Post the six to ten things that you do on a daily basis
2 - Link to the person who tagged you.
3 - Tag five other people
4 - Leave a comment on the blog of the person that tagged you letting them know that have posted this to your blog.
5 - A rule I’m adding; you must tag at least one person who’s blog you have either just found within the last week or some one who’s blog that you don’t know very well!

I check my gmail, twitter, facebook, and blogger.
I read.
I pray.
I fuss at my brother.
I make a mess in my room.
I watch some form of television, whether it's YouTube, a movie, or actual tv.

I know it, I'm pretty boring. So, I'm going to tag some folks with much more interesting lives:
Bria, Jasmine, Taylor, Hannah F., Jessica, and Hannah G.

And, the "new" blogger to tag that I've stumbled across is: The Editrix at Ribbons of Light

15 Things I'm not Afraid to Admit About Myself

2008-12-23T15:18:00.002-06:00

Over a month ago, Taylor tagged me and I failed to do it. Sorry Tay, here it is:

I try to stay informed about the state of my country and my world, but honestly I hate politics.
In relation to that, I hate any kind of conflict.
I hate country, rap, heavy metal, and vocal bluegrass. I'll listen to pretty much anything else.
I don't like eggs unless their hot and there's a bunch of other stuff mixed in. I also despise potato salad.
I'm just as comfortable in a Charismatic Church service as when I'm at my home church which is Reformed Presbyterian.
I think watching Gone with the Wind was one the biggest wastes of my time.
I don't like Christian romance novels (i.e. Janette Oke).
I like Ancient History (it's NOT boring!)
I hate Physics
I'm not in much of a Christmas mood (hey! where'd the music go? ahhh...that's better!)
I stink at all outdoor activities
I've yet to find a "handmade" pastime that I'm good at
I'm (semi) addicted to Facebook
I don't like the new Prince Caspian
But, I love the new Sense and Sensibility (minus the first scene and a few other parts)

I tag: Micah, Stephen B., Stephen G., and Miss Jocelyn

Spiritual Sunday Week 3

2008-12-07T21:27:00.000-06:00

"Believe God, or Believe "in" God?"~Kelly at Generation Cedar:

"Every now and then a verse, one I've known for years, just slaps me in the face with newly discovered truth.

'Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.'

Watch this...Abraham's righteousness did not come as a result of his believing IN God. It's easy to believe in God. Most people actually believe in God..."

"Grace is Amazing (Really)"~Hannah at Beauty from the Heart: “I’m afraid I’m not good enough to get into heaven.” The teenage girl twirled a pencil in her hand as she expressed her concern to the entire youth group. Other students nodded, relating to her fear..."

"Prayers for Marriage"~Tiffany at Pressing Toward the Mark: "I stumbled upon these beautiful prayers while looking for some good quotes, and wanted to share them with you. One is written by Ruth Bell Graham, and the other written by Robert J. Morgan, and they really just make you want to do nothing but strive after the Lord, and let Him touch and be a part of every area of our lives- including marriage..."

"The Most Difficult Doctrine"~Lindsey at Beauty from the Heart: "The hardest concept in the Bible for me to grasp is shockingly fundamental; in fact, without it, Christianity crumbles to nothing. Out of all the difficult truths in that Book, it’s the most popular one by far—chiefly because few find it difficult at all. It may be the most incredible—and, unsurprisingly, it may be the most grossly misshapen and carelessly handled."

"The Art of Diligence"~Jasmine Baucham at Joyfully Home: "There is a word I've grown to love and hate this past couple of years, one that can be an uplifting encouragement at one moment, and a scathing reminder at the next: diligence."

Why? How? Me too...O No!

2008-12-05T10:19:00.004-06:00

Hebrews 3:7-11 NKJV

“Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says:
“ Today, if you will hear His voice,
8 Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion,
In the day of trial in the wilderness,
9 Where your fathers tested Me, tried Me,
And saw My works forty years.
10 Therefore I was angry with that generation,
And said, ‘They always go astray in their heart,
And they have not known My ways.’
11 So I swore in My wrath,
‘ They shall not enter My rest.’””

The Israelites were surrounded by a pagan world. A world controlled by pawns in the hand of Satan; a world that worshiped demonic powers set up as attractive deities. The first four thousand years of history consisted of societies led by fear and warfare.

My post-modern mind is unable to wrap around the horrors of the ancient world. The worst tragedies of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries were commonplace throughout antiquity. So, why, how, could Israel, chosen by a just and loving God, reject peace in the midst of chaos?

Why did they turn to the macabre? When I open up a work of pagan literature, I find them filled with disgusting stories and wars to no end. But, when I open the Old Testament, I find a breath of fresh air, a different way of handling everything in the ancient world. The squalor of pagan literature gives such contrasting beauty and significance to Scripture.

Why, how, could Israel commit adultery against Yahweh?

This morning I opened my Bible to Hebrews 3 and read the passage above. The following verses grabbed my attention:

“12 [Therefore beware] brethren, take care, lest there be in any one of you a wicked, unbelieving heart [which refuses to cleave to, trust in, and rely on Him], leading you to turn away and desert or stand aloof from the living God.”

I live in a society that rejects God every day and yet enjoys the inherited blessings of Christendom. Whenever an humanist goes to a hospital, or an atheist enjoys an orchestral performance, they are participating in Christianity’s influence. I live in the wealthiest, greatest nation on earth, which is only what it has been because of the Christian world, and yet I take all my resources for granted. I attribute technology, books, comfort, and music to the advances of the modern world without stopping to understand that every good thing is from God. I am a Christian living in a Christianized world and am no better than the atheist.

Lately, I’ve been especially guilty of “standing aloof from the living God.” I spend hours reading blogs, and I don’t spend time with my Lord. I struggle with emotional purity and lust, when I have been offered such a beautiful and fulfilling relationship with my Savior. Accepting His good gifts, I thank everyone but Him.

“13 But instead warn (admonish, urge, and encourage) one another every day, as long as it is called Today, that none of you may be hardened [into settled rebellion] by the deceitfulness of sin [by the fraudulence, the stratagem, the trickery which the delusive glamor of his sin may play on him].

14 For we have become fellows with Christ (the Messiah) and share in all He has for us, if only we hold our first newborn confidence and original assured expectation [in virtue of which we are believers] firm and unshaken to the end.

15 Then while it is [still] called Today, if you would hear His voice and when you hear it, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion [in the desert, when the people provoked and irritated and embittered God against them].” (Amplified Bible)

I squander that precious thing called time. “While it is called Today,” I must be at battle, continuing to share Christ in the world that He conquered. Holding on to the “original assured expectation” that Christ will continue to overcome and He has called me to help.

Am I any better than the adulterous Israelites? No, but I do have the joy of being born in a world overcome by Christ. I have the blessing of walking in the legacy and lessons of 2,000 years of Christendom. And, I have the hope that in the end we win. No more rebellion, no more horror~only Christ, only peace.

Spiritual Sunday: Week 2

2008-11-24T16:39:00.005-06:00

Here are a few blog posts that were encouraging to me this last week:

"Does Emotional Purity Mean No Pain?"~Heather Paulsen at Emotional Purity: "Are you sold on the idea of emotional purity because you fear being hurt? Or because you've been hurt in the past and there is no way you're going to let that happen to you again?"

"Authentic Communication"~Heather Paulsen at Emotional Purity: "How well do you communicate? I mean really communicate?"

"The Superiority of Their Women"~Kelly at Generation Cedar: ""I have nowhere seen woman occupying a loftier position..." Women of the past...America owes its greatness to their sacrifice, and we would do well to learn from them..."

"Friendships"~Jasmine Baucham at Joyfully Home: "I wanted to talk just a bit about the important influence that we as older young women can have on shaping part of the "education" of younger girls, just by our friendship and encouragement. Now, I think ladies with younger sisters have the upper-hand in this area, but we girls who only have brothers (and lots of 'em in my case :-) can be sisterly to the other younger women in our lives!"

Vote for Manliness

2008-11-24T16:19:00.003-06:00

Thought the elections were over? Well, here's another one for you: The 2008 Art of Manliness Man of the Year Award.

Matthew Chancey, one of the finalists, is my definite pick. The other stories are wonderful, but I can personally vouch for Mr. Chancey. After attending church with him for two years, sitting under his occasional preaching, discussing government with him, and seeing his influence on his amazing wife and eight delightful children, I'd have to say that he's one of the most Godly examples of manhood I've ever met. So, please step on over and cast your ballot for manliness.

Spiritual Sunday: Week I

2008-11-23T13:15:00.000-06:00

The following are some spiritually encouraging posts I found last week on the blogosphere:

"Vending Machine Theology"-Lora Lynn at Blissfully Domestic: "If I could erase one phrase from my children’s vocabulary, it would be I want. We’re working on helping them ask for things with a “May I have … please,” but in the meantime, my world is full of I-wants..."

"An Opinionated Single"-Jasmine Baucham at Joyfully Home:

"I'm not sure if I really "count" as a single. I'm well into my eighteenth year, I graduated from high school in 2007, I'm continuing my education, and I have a full-time job... working for my daddy. If I were a part of an age-segregated church, depending on which one, I might still be in the youth group, I might be in the college group, or I might be in the singles' group. I still live with my family, and I'm still an integral part of our family unit (I hope :-). Though I am not currently married or romantically involved, however, I don't quite see myself as a "single." Oh, yes, I'm an individual... but I'm an individual that is used to working with a team; to me, the word "single" connotes, just that: singularity..."

"World of Splendor"-Bria at Candid Creation: " Come let us go up to the mountain of the Lord..."

"Young People Must Think About Death"~The Rebelution:

"Death is a morbid subject. Death is scary and depressing. People shouldn’t think about death. Young people definitely shouldn’t think about death. After all, we’re young, we’re invincible, and we’ve got our whole lives ahead of us. Right?..."

"Thoughts From a Tea Bag"~ Hannah at Beauty from the Heart: "As I hunkered down with J.I. Packer's Knowing God, I noticed my tea mug contained a message. Printed on the tea bag's tail were the words, "Calm is the highest achievement of the self..."

"Who Else Wants to Be a Red Shoe?"~Christa Taylor at Empowered Traditionalist:

"I grew up wearing sensible shoes.

They were called “Buster Browns” in the day, and they served my Catholic school uniform( with the chubbette expando-waist band) quite well..."

"The Cry on the Front: The Cry We Don't Hear at Home"- Christin A. at Godly Ladies in Training:

"Suppose you are a soldier on the front line. The war was on. You load your arms with ammunition. You fired. One dead on the enemy’s front line. Two. Three. Four and until your bullets are gone. But the enemies kept coming. Their number seems to have not diminished despite all your firearm’s effort to hit them. You look beside you. Your fellow soldiers are still firing but some have the same problem that you have: lack of ammunition. You look behind and you see your troop’s lines thinning. You look back to the front. Amidst the thick smoke and dust your enemies are still firing and they’re killing your fellow soldiers..."

"Why Mr. Darcy?"-Heather Koerner at Boundless Line: "Several weeks ago, we had a very lively discussion emerge on Motte's Whom Not to Marry blog about 19th-century novelist Jane Austen, her books and, specifically, the hero of her novel Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Darcy..."

Saturday Psalm and Praise: Week I

2008-11-22T14:20:00.004-06:00

I've been studying the history of the Persian Empire as recorded by Herodotus the Greek Historian. Herodotus gave a detailed account of the life of the grandfather of Cyrus and the life of Cyrus, the first king of Persia, himself. Cyrus' birth and willingness to send the Israelites back to the Promised Land and help them rebuild was prophesied by Isaiah before Assyria ever entered Israel.

As you read the Scripture below, try to keep the following in mind:

Astyages, the last king of the Median Empire, received a prophecy that his grandson would overthrow him. In an attempt to take control of his destiny, he marries his daughter to an unassuming king. After receiving another prophesy, he orders his head general to kill his grandson, Cyrus. However, the general disobeys, and puts the responsibility on a goatherd, who ends up raising Cyrus as his own. Cyrus' identity is eventually discovered and he does destroy Astyages' empire, becoming the first king of the Persian Empire.
God is sovereign. No matter how messed up the world looks to us, God is orchestrating history.
In the end, all of history points to Yaweh. "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Phill. 2:10-11) Man constantly attempts to make a name for himself. But, God's name always reigns. He frustrated the attempts of the Tower of Babel, He gave Abraham a name, and He chose the nation of Israel for Himself. "But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;" (1 Peter 2:9)

Isaiah 44:24-45:13
NKJV

24 Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer,
And He who formed you from the womb:

“ I am the LORD, who makes all things,
Who stretches out the heavens all alone,
Who spreads abroad the earth by Myself;
25 Who frustrates the signs of the babblers,
And drives diviners mad;
Who turns wise men backward,
And makes their knowledge foolishness;
26 Who confirms the word of His servant,
And performs the counsel of His messengers;
Who says to Jerusalem, ‘You shall be inhabited,’
To the cities of Judah, ‘You shall be built,’
And I will raise up her waste places;
27 Who says to the deep, ‘Be dry!
And I will dry up your rivers’;
28 Who says of Cyrus, ‘He is My shepherd,
And he shall perform all My pleasure,
Saying to Jerusalem, “You shall be built,”
And to the temple, “Your foundation shall be laid.”’

1 “Thus says the LORD to His anointed,

To Cyrus, whose right hand I have held—
To subdue nations before him
And loose the armor of kings,
To open before him the double doors,
So that the gates will not be shut:
2 ‘ I will go before you
And make the crooked places straight;
I will break in pieces the gates of bronze
And cut the bars of iron.
3 I will give you the treasures of darkness
And hidden riches of secret places,
That you may know that I, the LORD,
Who call you by your name,
Am the God of Israel.
4 For Jacob My servant’s sake,
And Israel My elect,
I have even called you by your name;
I have named you, though you have not known Me.
5 I am the LORD, and there is no other;
There is no God besides Me.
I will gird you, though you have not known Me,
6 That they may know from the rising of the sun to its setting
That there is none besides Me.
I am the LORD, and there is no other;
7 I form the light and create darkness,
I make peace and create calamity;
I, the LORD, do all these things.’
8 “ Rain down, you heavens, from above,
And let the skies pour down righteousness;
Let the earth open, let them bring forth salvation,
And let righteousness spring up together.
I, the LORD, have created it.
9 “ Woe to him who strives with his Maker!
Let the potsherd strive with the potsherds of the earth!
Shall the clay say to him who forms it, ‘What are you making?’
Or shall your handiwork say, ‘He has no hands’?
10 Woe to him who says to his father, ‘What are you begetting?’
Or to the woman, ‘What have you brought forth?’”
11 Thus says the LORD,
The Holy One of Israel, and his Maker:

“ Ask Me of things to come concerning My sons;
And concerning the work of My hands, you command Me.
12 I have made the earth,
And created man on it.
I—My hands—stretched out the heavens,
And all their host I have commanded.
13 I have raised him up in righteousness,
And I will direct all his ways;
He shall build My city
And let My exiles go free,
Not for price nor reward,”
Says the LORD of hosts.

Time: Part 3

2008-11-12T17:41:00.003-06:00

As a follow up on my two blog posts discussing time (Part I; Part II) I encourage you to visit Beauty from the Heart and discuss Hannah's post on using discernment in time management.

The Folly of Comparison

2008-11-08T11:51:00.004-06:00

The following post by Crystal Paine was convicting to say the least:

"...Our family has different challenges and priorities than this other family. And really, there's no way to compare our own two unique families or children.

Which is why playing "The Comparison Game" is neither healthy or wise. It only leads to guilt, frustration, and much time wasted. And yet, I think it's something a lot of us women struggle with. We look at other women who seem more accomplished, or more organized, or thinner, or prettier, or better at this or that, or even more Godly, and we start feeling like we don't stack up.

Now granted, there's nothing wrong with being inspired or motivated by others and I'm not advocating that we all seek after mediocrity, but there is great danger in measuring ourselves and our abilities against another. Especially if this causes us to feel discouraged or inadequate.

Our worth is not in how pretty we are, how self-disciplined we are, how well-trained or advanced our children are, how long we've been married, how many children we have, how well we can decorate, how little we spend at the grocery store, or whatever it is that we feel like we might not measure up to another.

All that truly matter is who I am in Christ. When I keep my eyes focused on this, I stop comparing myself to others and instead appreciating who God has made me to be. I stop worrying about what other people think and have confidence in Christ alone.

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.

On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.

-Edward Mote

I don't want my hope, my joy, my fulfillment, or my identity to be based on anything or anyone but Christ and His finished work on the Cross. It is there that I find true joy, contentment, and freedom from guilt.

For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:38-39)"

Read the entire post.

A Few Random Things About Random Old Me

2008-11-03T20:21:00.005-06:00

I have been tagged again! This time by Micah F.

Six Random Things About Me:

I hate the color orange.
I would love to learn to play cello. But, when I start thinking of lugging that thing around, well...
I wear glasses.
I have very small feet.
I moved 6 times between 1995 and 2000.
I played the character of Mary Bennet in a home-school, high-school, theatrical production of Pride and Prejudice.

The Rules

Link to the person who tagged you.

Post the rules on your blog.

Write Six Random Things about yourself.

“Tag” six-or-so other people at the bottom of your post.

Leave comments on their blogs, letting them know they’ve been tagged.

Let the person who tagged you know when you’ve written the post.

I Tag:

One More Heart That Was Stopped

2008-11-02T09:02:00.002-06:00

I found the following poem on Alyssa Chua's blog:

"One More Heart That Was Stopped"

Month One

Mommy
I am only 8 inches long
but I have all my organs.
I love the sound of your voice.
Every time I hear it
I wave my arms and legs.
The sound of your heart beat
is my favorite lullaby.

Month Two

Mommy
today I learned how to suck my thumb.
If you could see me
you could definitely tell that I am a baby.
I'm not big enough to survive outside my home though.
It is so nice and warm in here.

Month Three

You know what Mommy
I'm a boy!!
I hope that makes you happy.
I always want you to be happy.
I don't like it when you cry.
You sound so sad.
It makes me sad too
and I cry with you even though
you can't hear me.

Month Four

Mommy
my hair is starting to grow.
It is very short and fine
but I will have a lot of it.
I spend a lot of my time exercising.
I can turn my head and curl my fingers and toes
and stretch my arms and legs.
I am becoming quite good at it too.

Month Five

You went to the doctor today.
Mommy, he lied to you.
He said that I'm not a baby.
I am a baby Mommy, your baby.
I think and feel.
Mommy, what's abortion?

Month Six

I can hear that doctor again.
I don't like him.
He seems cold and heartless.
Something is intruding my home.
The doctor called it a needle.
Mommy what is it? It burns!
Please make him stop!
I can't get away from it!
Mommy! HELP me!

Month Seven

Mommy
I am okay.
I am in Jesus's arms.
He is holding me.
He told me about abortion.
Why didn't you want me Mommy?

Every abortion is just . . .

One more heart that was stopped.
Two more eyes that will never see.
Two more hands that will never touch.
Two more legs that will never run.
One more mouth that will never speak.

Stuck in the Middle

2008-11-01T19:31:00.004-05:00

Brett and Alex Harris were recently interviewed for a PBS critique on young evangelicals and their views on politics. While I don't agree with their candidate endorsements, they were right on in their discussion of social justice.

But, what the other young people were saying, scares me. It angers me because the stance taken by them is not my stance, nor that of many of my friends. Just because I am a member of a "young" or "new" generation, doesn't change how I follow Christ. It doesn't change what Scripture says.

Johnathon Merritt from the Southern Baptist Environment and Climate Initiative ends the news clip with this, "Younger evangelicals -- their number one priority is living a life that is consistent with the ministry and the teachings of Jesus Christ, and if that lands them in a more liberal party or a more conservative party, that matters not. You're not seeing the emergence of an evangelical left. You are seeing the emergence of the evangelical stuck in the middle."

"So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth."
-Revelation 3:16

Stuck in the middle? As a Christian you follow whichever candidate will uphold Scripture. Period. As a Christian, culture should not be allowed to dictate your beliefs, your values, where you stand on issues. Scripture addresses all of the roots of the issues. Scripture defines what the issues should be and how they should be handled. Not Western Culture, not the twenty-first century.

I proudly stand as a young evangelical who defines every area of life by the Word of the living Christ. Whether that means following my generation, or my great-great grandparent's generation. Which doesn't mean being stuck in the middle between culture and Scripture.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Click to watch the interview on YouTube.

Literature

2008-10-27T21:01:00.003-05:00

Check out the latest post on my team blog:

Why Study Literature?

Satisfying Music

2008-10-27T19:37:00.007-05:00

Yesterday at church, a friend told me about the music of Nathan Clark George. I've been listening to his music for the last 30 minutes. Ahhh....simple yet beautiful scripture choruses and hymns. Consisting of little more than acoustic guitar and vocals, it's uncluttered music that I can focus and meditate on.

It reminds me of Fernando Ortega, except George seems to have a more focused, placed, voice and more concrete, yet flowing, melodic phrasing. He also has a few songs thrown in that arf reminiscent of Caedmon's Call alternative/folk rock songs about every day life. Not, to mention he's also a former seminary student and homeschool dad of 5. Yes, this is a talented Christian music artist that doesn't do anything without the rest of his family. So, why don't you click on over and listen to some very satisfying music: Nathan Clark George Music.

True Beauty

2008-10-27T14:40:00.000-05:00

Philosophy

2008-10-22T21:30:00.003-05:00

My dear friend wrote an excellent post on the importance of studying ideas and wisdom on our team blog:

The Not So Great Exchange

Vapor Verses Eternity: "Time" Part 2

2008-10-21T21:37:00.007-05:00

Stephen left the following comment on my last post:

"Wow! That's a great post, Ana!

I've found myself dealing with the same problem of idleness recently. I too can think of so many things that need to be done, I just don't have the willpower to do them! I'll think, "there's plenty of time for that later", but it's "a vapor".

Keep up the good work!"

Stephen, thank you for the encouragement.

"Vapor." That word keeps going through my mind. Total depravity of man, the things of this world, time, it's all just a vapor.

We serve such a great God! He is above all that: He is holy, everything He does has purpose, and He is eternal. That blows my mind. We humans are so caught up with the daily issues of time and yet He created it. He's in control of it.

After we have messed up again, focusing on "worthless things" , He revives us again, once we turn back to Him. Bestowing undeserved grace, He revives a misuser of what He created.

Every time I fall and receive that precious gift once again, I see another glimpse of my awesome Creator. "That their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ." (Colossians 2:2) It's as if every time I open up a gift of grace He includes a tiny clue to the great mystery that God is.

"I made You promises a thousand times
I tried to hear from Heaven
But I talked the whole time
I think I made You too small
I never feared You at all No
If You touched my face would I know You?
Looked into my eyes could I behold You?

What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?

I guess I thought that I had figured You out
I knew all the stories and I learned to talk about
How You were mighty to save
Those were only empty words on a page
Then I caught a glimpse of who You might be
The slightest hint of You brought me down to my knees"

-"What Do I Know of Holy" by Addison Road

What do I know of holy? I speak of my Savior every day, but does He permeate every thought. I praise Him with fellow believers, and yet how do I act every day? If I was given the choice to die for a group of people that mocked me, that did not even welcome me in my own home, I would have turned from it immediately.

Oh, but, what glory there is in knowing that Christ did not. That He provided a way for me to one day not be consumed with what is "but vapor." One day I will be able to sing "Holy, Holy, Holy" around the throne of Him who created time.

I will no longer be of vapor. I will be the Eternal Lord's forever.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Read:

Part I
Part III

Time: Part I

2008-10-20T21:25:00.006-05:00

Dictionary.com lists 64 different aspects of the definition of time. But, it all boils down to an interval of history given to each and every one of us.

Each interval is unique. No two will be exactly the same length or be carried out under the same circumstances.

“Whereas ye know not what [shall be] on the morrow. For what [is] your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. (James 4:14)” However, each and every tiny sliver of eternity that we call our own is short, “far too short not to finally realize that it’s long enough to make a difference in someone’s life.” ("Legacy of Love" by David Phelps)

I constantly find myself fretting because I don’t feel like there are enough hours in a day. But, when I stop to examine the activities I graciously or stingily dealt my 24 hours out to, I realize the issue isn’t the allotment of hours God designated to a day, it’s my motives.

The 30 minutes I spent on Facebook could have been spent working on the Christmas present for my grandparent. The two to six hours I spent watching movies over the weekend could have been spent writing a letter to a friend I’ve neglected. Five minutes of day dreaming here and five minutes there add up to how long it would have taken me to do another day’s worth of a school subject so that I’m not so bogged down by the time the weekend comes.

There’s nothing wrong with me chatting a bit on Facebook, watching movies, and day dreaming here and there, but in the end it’s useless clutter. Where is my discipline? Why to I continually succumb to what bogs me down? O Lord, “Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, And revive me in Your way.” (Psalm 119:37)

I have a Savior to petition to for help. He will “turn away my eyes.” What’s more, He will revive me.
When He is my one and only focus, when I push aside all the things vying for my sliver of history, whether good or bad, my sliver of history will be full of vibrant choices and actions.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Read:

Part II
Part III

Fall Favorites

2008-10-15T21:03:00.002-05:00

I should celebrate. I've been tagged for the very first time! Hannah graciously invited me to share how I feel about fall.

1. Favorite smell? Cinnamon

2. Favorite food? Sweet potatoes, pumpkin pie, muffins, or pumpkin anything, macaroni and cheese

3. Favorite color? Deep red

4. Favorite drink? Hot apple cider

5. Favorite treat? No school during Thanksgiving week

6. Favorite place to go? Grandmother's for Thanksgiving dinner

7. Favorite candy? Butterscotch and anything with chocolate

8. Favorite movie to watch? Nothing in particular for fall

9. Favorite clothing to wear? My classy brown outfit: green silk sweater with my brown tweed jacket over it, brown suede skirt, and cute, chunky brown heels. And, I LOVE my dressy/classy boots-brown and black.

10. Favorite outdoor activity? Admiring the fall colors

11. Favorite football team? I wish football didn’t exist. There would be a lot less conflict in the state of Alabama. Yes, I am a proud Alabamian and I said that without any guilt.

12. Favorite fall holiday? Thanksgiving

13. Favorite Haunted place, as in “frequently visited?” The kitchen

14. Favorite Food at Thanksgiving Dinner? How am I supposed to pick? Probably pecan pie

15. Favorite Pie? Pumpkin

16. Favorite Fall Hobby? Cooking

17. Favorite Fall Memory? So far I’ve met my cousins’ spouses when they would bring them to Thanksgiving Dinner while they were still dating. Hmmm….wonder how they’ll take it when I bring “him” and “he” is not my “boyfriend.” How do you explain courtship to extended family anyway?

18. Favorite Fall Sight? Deep red leaves

19. Overall Favorite thing about Fall? The reminder to be thankful

20. Overall Favorite Season? I love fall, but Spring is definitely my favorite.

I tag Sarah Jane, Olivia, Tiffany, and Jessica.

Simple Woman's Daybook: Week 1

2008-10-13T15:57:00.006-05:00

FOR TODAY...

Outside My Window... Clouds, clouds, and more clouds. I would appreciate some sunshine!

I am thinking...Why have I become "addicted" to the computer? Hands on projects and quiet reading need to reappear as appealing in my life.

I am thankful for...Music. It would take a million lifetimes to totally understand it, guess that's why it reminds of God so much. It's an art, a science, filled with techniques, a history, a tool of Praise, it's opinionated, emotional, do I have to stop?

From the kitchen... Leftovers and Mexican Quiche...which I'd better go check right now.

From the learning rooms...Today I wrote a persuasive essay on orange juice: pulp vs. no pulp. In my online class this week I'll continue studying the unique periods of Israel's history through 1 and 2 Kings.

I am wearing... My hair is in a white headband; blue top; blue, white, and tan striped Bermuda shorts; barefoot, and no makeup.

I am creating...Well, I need to get busy with a rag quilt for my Paw Paw's Christmas and a Regency ball gown for a New Year's Ball.

I am going...to go to bed on time tonight, I hope.

I am reading...lots of different things for school and skimming through The Marketing of Evil during spare time.

I am hoping...that I'll stop wasting time.

I am hearing... "Home" by Michael Buble

Around the house... it's pretty quiet. Mom and Greg are gone to his karate and dad isn't feeling too great. It's really quiet! Well, except for Josh Groban.

One of my favorite things...deep, politically incorrect conversations

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: Get all my school done, practice my piano more, and enjoy my family more.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

This is my brother Greg enjoying colonial punishment at the American Village a few years ago.

Many thanks to The Simple Woman for this great meme.

Covenant, Marriage, and Commitment

2008-09-13T17:20:00.004-05:00

-In my online class the other night, where I'm studying Genesis, my teacher talked a lot about covenants. He mentioned that Malachi discussed marriage being a covenant. I looked up the reference and was astounded at the difference between God's view of marriage, and our culture's attitude:

"Yet you say, “For what reason?”
Because the LORD has been witness
Between you and the wife of your youth,
With whom you have dealt treacherously;
Yet she is your companion
And your wife by covenant.

But did He not make them one,
Having a remnant of the Spirit?
And why one?
He seeks godly offspring.
Therefore take heed to your spirit,
And let none deal treacherously with the wife of his youth.

“ For the LORD God of Israel says
That He hates divorce,
For it covers one’s garment with violence,”
Says the LORD of hosts.

“ Therefore take heed to your spirit,
That you do not deal treacherously.” "

-Malachi 2:14-16, NKJV

-Kelly Crawford at Generation Cedar posted some beautiful YouTube videos by John Piper on marriage being a covenant: Marriage...What's it Really For?

-And finally, the lovely girls at Forthright Fixation posted a wonderful message on commitment:
Commitment

Sarah Palin

2008-08-30T19:02:00.002-05:00

Several of my friends and favorite bloggers have already rushed to commenting on McCain's choice for running mate. I don't think I have any more to add, but I strongly recommend reading their analysis and Biblical criticism:

Jennie Chancey at Ladies Against Feminism:
"Woe to My People..."

Doug's Blog:
A Comparison of Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin's Speeches on Feminist Political Objectives and Victories to the Men and Women of America

Highlights From Higher Ground:

Created and Commanded to....

Heart of a Southerner:

V.P. for McCain

Generation Cedar:

Sarah Palin..Yeah, I'm Going There

Stephen Boyd also has some interesting insight on Barack Obama (make sure and read the comments):

Defending our Christian Heritage ....

On The Inaguration Of Tyranny

Modesty Carnival

2008-08-28T16:22:00.002-05:00

The wonderful folks of Beauty from the Heart and Empowered Traditionalist are hosting a modesty carnival. I've begun reading the articles and they are wonderful! So, please click on over and join this exciting event:

Modesty Carnival

World of Crosses

2008-08-28T16:16:00.000-05:00

Cross is all the world.
Cross to me is all the world.
Cross to all the world am I.

Crossroads make up the world.
Crossroads make up our lives.
Crossroads make up my life.

Crossing paths creates enemies.
Crossing paths forms friendships.
Crossing the greatest path of all gave me the Friend.

The Cross He took up for me.
The Cross He bore for the world.
A cross I must now take up.

Crosses make up the world.
Crosses make up my world.
The Cross saved the world.

Mercy and Grace

2008-08-28T16:15:00.000-05:00

‘What can man do to me?’

Christ’s mercy is unjust,
Allowing me to cry:
Forgive my filth, O my Lord
Forget my sins, I implore

Christ’s grace is an undeserving gift
Giving me ability to ask for:
Purity like none other,
A shameless life so that you might
Fulfill my being,

Doing what no man can.

Worship

2008-08-26T20:59:00.005-05:00

Worship--why we were created. Worship service-what you go to on Sunday mornings, right? Worship regulations--why churches split, older generations are offended, and younger generations left confused.

In the Middle Ages the battle was tempus perfectum verses tempus imperfectum. Rhythm division of three (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) verses division of two. There's since been the battle of instruments-electric guitar verses pipe organ. The battle of lyrics-doctrine verses emotion. But, if you are truly worshiping and as long as the lyrics are theologically sound, it doesn't matter if you're singing "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" or "We Fall Down."

Personally, I enjoy meaningful hymns and some contemporary worship (as long as it's not too wild). I've grown up in everything from Word of Faith/Pentecostal to Reformed Presbyterian. And, no matter what church setting I'm in, it's never the drums, the organs, or the hymnbooks that turn me off or set me on fire.

It's the lyrics. Am I learning something? Is this theologically sound?

It's the worship. Is the congregation actually worshiping--am I worshiping? Am I forgetting about me, my problems, my whining, my flesh, my opinions, and focusing my all on Him. Him, the Star-Breather, the Savior--the God who made us for His fellowship and glorification.

That's our whole purpose on this green earth. If we are not fellowshipping with our Holy Creator in every word we say, in every reaction of every relationship, and in every deed every day--we are running from true existence. We're forming a lie for us to live inside of. If we do not lose ourselves and gain Christ every day, when we meet with Him in our quiet times, and when we assemble with fellow believers, we've forgotten purpose; we're hypocrites.

It doesn't matter if Chris Tomlin or Isaac Watts wrote what I'm singing. What matters is if I actually mean the words I'm reading off the wall or hymnbook. It doesn't matter if there's a drum beat thrown in or if the sweet little lady is playing straight out of the hymnbook. It's what sweet fragrance Almighty God is delighting in-- or not.

Worship--it's purpose, it's existence, it's a state of heart.

Worldviews

2008-08-02T15:35:00.004-05:00

Check out my first installment of a series on worldviews:

Defining Worldviews: Part I

Ancient History

2008-07-04T17:48:00.000-05:00

I will be studying Ancient history and literature this school year. What resources have helped you in this area of study?

Life Long To-Do List

2008-06-25T12:59:00.003-05:00

Top 3 Things on Life-Long-To-Do List:

Become a Christ-like woman in whatever relationships and circumstances God places me in.
Be published.
Travel to Europe.

What are your top 3?

THE Passion

2008-06-11T19:59:00.007-05:00

Wow, I'm quickly forming a favorites list for 2008! Do Hard Things, Don't Waste Your Life, and now...When Dreams Come True. These are books that are shaking, shaping, and transforming my life. God is amazing!

Each of these books have given me a fresh vision to know God as my ultimate passion. Not seeing Him as a passion that will bring me gifts, great opportunities, and other passions. But as the Passion. That if I never received anything else in this life, He is and would be everything I need. Period. That period is tough, but God hasn't been letting me forget it.

Don't Waste Your Life implanted a seed for this passion. Do Hard Things watered this seed by challenging me to live out that passion in every area of my life. When Dreams Come True sprouted the seed, declaring that Christ is my true love.

"If my life was to have a single, all-satisfying, unifying passion, it would have to be God’s passion."
-p.28, Don't Waste Your Life by John Piper

Which books has God been using to sprout seeds in your life?
What would an evaluation of the passions in your life look like?

Apology

2008-06-06T14:23:00.001-05:00

Please forgive any errors while this non-geek is attempting to re-format her blog.

Thank you!

Overcoming Excuses

2008-06-06T11:27:00.003-05:00

“So what are our reasons for…doing nothing?

1. We’re not as good at something as someone else we know.
2. We don’t have all the resources we think we need.
3. We figure that the chances of falling and looking like losers are too high.

But do you see the misconceptions hiding in all these reasons? We’re really saying:

1. God only uses the best and brightest.
2. He only uses us when every last thing is in place.
3. He only brings glory to Himself when we…bring glory to ourselves too.”

-p.71-72, Do Hard Things by Brett and Alex Harris

“As he was walking by the Sea of Galilee, He noticed two brothers, Simon who is called Peter and Andrew his brother, throwing a dragnet into the sea, for they were fishermen. And He said to them. Come after Me [as disciples-letting Me be your Guide], follow Me, an I will make you fishers of men! At once they left their nets and became His disciples [sided with His party and followed Him].”-Matthew 4:18-20, Amplified Bible

What would have happened if Simon and Andrew told Jesus, “Your ministry is under funded, why don’t you just let us stay here and do some fundraisers?” Or, what if Peter had said, “Why don’t you find someone else more spiritually mature? I need to continue with counseling sessions.” What if Matthew had protested with, “My career is safer than this ministry. I’m too scared of failing. Besides, my friends wouldn‘t like you.”

God uses those that He will train along the way. He doesn’t wait for us to get it all together before He calls us. Besides, as Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “The cross is not the terrible end to an otherwise God-fearing and happy life, but it meets us at the beginning of our communion with Christ. When Christ calls a man, He bids him come and die….The only man, who has the right to say that he is justified by grace alone is the man who has left all to follow Christ.”* If we as Christians think we can go through life only worrying about our career, our weaknesses, and our pleasures, we should re-think what Christianity really is.

“Unless we’re being intentionally foolish, a failure is never total. We aren’t called to be successful all the time. We’re called to be faithful…”
-p.78, Do Hard Things by Brett and Alex Harris

“Instead of worrying about future fears, we can, as Corrie ten Boom wrote, ‘Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.’”
-p.84, Do Hard Things by Brett and Alex Harris

* qtd on p.63, Don’t Waste Your Life by John Piper

Emotional Purity

2008-06-06T11:24:00.003-05:00

I’ve always struggled with emotional purity and flirting. This morning some Scriptures stood out to me:

“Who shall go up into the mountain of the Lord? Or who shall stand in His Holy Place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted himself up to falsehood or to what is false, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive blessing from the Lord and righteousness from the God of his salvation. This is the generation [description] of those who seek Him…” Psalm 24: 3-6, Amplified Bible

Our society rejoices in a lie, a falsehood, that purity is not necessary: “Enjoy the opposite sex, fulfill your youthful desires, submit to low expectations.” I tend to pride myself in that I’ve never had a boyfriend, I’m saving my first kiss for my wedding, and that I plan to wait for the man God has planned for me. But, it is still so easy for me to succumb to world’s lies: that it’s still okay to think about guys a lot, and that it’s okay to emotionally give my heart away.

“Blessed (happy, enviably fortunate, and spiritually prosperous-possessing the happiness produced by the experience of God’s favor and especially conditioned by the revelation of His grace, regardless of their outward conditions) are the pure in heart, for they shall see God!”-Matthew 5:8, Amplified Bible

What else could a girl ask for? When I think about guys, what is it I’m wanting? Happiness, companionship, love, fulfillment, and security. Christ is all of that for me. Why do I look for it elsewhere? His grace supplies all I ever need. He is all I need.

“Why are you cast down, O my inner self? And why should you moan over me and be disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, Who is the help of my countenance, and my God.”-Psalm 42:11, Amplified Bible

“If we only trust Christ to give us gifts and not Himself as the all-satisfying gift, then we do not trust Him in a way that honors Him as our treasure.”-p.70, Don’t Waste Your Life by John Piper

If I don’t trust Christ now “as the all-satisfying gift” and as my “treasure,” then I will never be happy in any male/female relationship.

Matt Chancey

2008-06-05T19:47:00.004-05:00

If you’re in Alabama, please consider supporting Matt Chancey in the run-off on July 15. Attending the same church, I can attest to his integrity, excellence, and vision for reforming the state of Alabama. He knows and understands the Constitution and is greatly concerned for our state and country

Matt Chancey:
Republican candidate for Alabama Public Service Commission President

Biographies

2008-06-05T19:32:00.004-05:00

“Since we all live in a world created by television, it is almost impossible to see what has happened to us. The only hope is to read what people were like in previous centuries. Biographies are a great antidote to cultural myopia and chronological snobbery. We have become almost incapable of handling any great truth reverently and deeply.”
-p.121, Don’t Waste Your Life by John Piper

In preparation for a discussion group I am starting, I am currently reading two biographies of Jane Austen, one of my favorite authors. After reading the first chapter I realized that the author is extremely feminist compared to my worldview. This biography won’t simply provide me with some interesting facts about Jane Austen, but it will also give me a chance to pick a book apart through my worldview lens of Biblical womanhood. Other biographies have given me a new perspective to a historical time period, a different view on relationships, or a challenge to do more with my life. They almost always make me re-examine myself.

I love autobiographies, journals, and correspondence collections because they give you a glimpse into that person’s heart and vision. Ten Peas in a Pod by Arnold Pent III was a wonderful adventure into a large family’s escapades and ministry as they traveled cross country singing and witnessing. Love Letters from Cell 92: The Correspondence of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Maria von Wedemeyer was a unique view into a theologian’s romance and personal struggles.

Here are some of my favorite biographies and autobiographies:

Joni by Joni Eareckson
Story of the Trapp Family Singers by Maria Trapp
So Help Me God by Roy Moore
Love Letters from Cell 92: The Correspondence of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Maria von Wedemeyer
Ten Peas in a Pod by Arnold Pent III
The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom
Father ten Boom by Corrie ten Boom
God’s Smuggler by Brother Andrew
The Magic Never Ends: An Oral History of C.S. Lewis by John Ryan Duncan
Up from Slavery by Booker T. Washington
William and Catherine: The Life and Legacy of the Booths: Founders of the Salvation Army by Trevor Yaxley
Amazing Grace in the Life of William Wilberforce by John Piper
Gregor Mendel: Planting the Seeds of Genetics by Simon Mawer

Read a biography or autobiography, then come back here and tell us about it.

The Myth of Safety

2008-06-05T19:19:00.003-05:00

Throughout his book, Don‘t Waste Your Life, Piper firmly but graciously explodes excuses, modern philosophies, and safety: “One of my aims is to explode the myth of safety and to somehow deliver you from the enchantment of security. Because it’s a mirage. It doesn’t exist. Every direction you turn there are unknowns and things beyond your control (81).” This stood out to me as yet another example of what I had learned from Corrie Ten Boom and Dietrich Bonhoeffer:

“The Germans had repaired the bomb damage to the airport and were using it now as a base for air raids against England. Night after night we lay in bed listening to the growl of engines heading west. Occasionally English planes retaliated and then the German fighters might intercept them right over Haarlem.

One night I tossed for an hour while dogfights raged overhead, streaking my patch of sky with fire. At last I heard Betsie stirring in the kitchen and ran down to join her.

She was making tea. She brought it into the dining room where we had covered the windows with heavy black paper and set out the best cups. Somewhere in the night there was an explosion; the dishes in the cupboard rattled. For an hour we sipped our tea and talked, until the sound of planes died away and the sky was silent. I said goodnight to Betsie at the door to Tante Jans’s rooms and groped my way up the dark stairs to my own. The fiery light was gone from the sky. I felt for my bed: there was the pillow. Then in the darkness my hand closed over something hard. Sharp too! I felt blood trickle along a finger.

It was a jagged piece of metal, ten inches long.

‘Betsie!’

I raced down the stairs with the shrapnel shard in my hand. We went back to the dining room and stared at it in the light while Betsie bandaged my hand. ‘On your pillow,’ she kept saying.

‘Betsie, if I hadn’t heard you in the kitchen----’

But Betsie put a finger on my mouth. ‘Don’t say it, Corrie! There are no ‘if’s’ in God’s world. And no places that are safer than other places. The center of His will is our only safety-O Corrie, let us pray that we may always know it! (Emphasis added)’”

-The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom, Chapter 5, p.66-67

“Man-made efforts of peace bring about a temporary feeling of safety and security. But, not real peace. That’s because we often confuse peace with safety. But they are not the same. Peace is a great venture. It’s a dare to trust God completely. Peace requires us to give up our illusions of safety, security, our schemes and plans in order to rely upon Almighty God alone. (Emphasis added)”
-Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Don’t Waste Your Life

2008-06-05T18:52:00.004-05:00

I recently finished a book which quickly became a favorite: Don’t Waste Your Life by John Piper. Let me share a few quotes that sum the book up better than I could:

“This is not a book about how to avoid a wounded life, but how to avoid a wasted life.”-p.10

“It was not always plain to me that pursuing God’s glory would be virtually the same as pursuing my joy. Now I see that millions of people waste their lives because they think these paths are two and not one.”-p.9

“…what must love do? It must rescue us from our addiction to self and bring us, changed, into the presence of God.”-p.36

“He [God] is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.”-p.36

“Boasting in the cross happens when you are on the cross.”-p.55

“If we only trust Christ to give us gifts and not Himself as the all-satisfying gift, then we do not trust Him in a way that honors Him as our treasure.”-p.70

“How much food and clothing are necessary? Necessary for what? We must ask. Necessary to be comfortable? No, Jesus did not promise comfort. Necessary to avoid shame? No, Jesus called us to bear shame for His name with joy. Necessary to stay alive? Persecution and plague consume the saints….God does not promise enough food for comfort or life-he promises enough so that you can trust him and do His will.”-p.94

“Why don’t people ask us about our hope [1 Peter 3: 15]? The answer is probably that we look as if we hope in the same things they do.”-p.109

“We are at war, whether the stocks are falling or climbing, whether the terrorist are hitting or hiding, whether we are healthy or sick.”-p.113

While discussing our society of technology and frivolity, Piper describes it as, “a multi-layered dream world of insignificance expanding into nothingness.”-p.125

“…our work is not the beautiful woman, but the necklace. The beautiful woman is the Gospel-‘the doctrine of God our Savior.’ [Titus 2:9-10] So one crucial meaning of our secular work is that the way we do it will increase or decrease the attractiveness of the Gospel we profess before unbelievers.”-p.143

"If my life was to have a single, all-satisfying, unifying passion, it would have to be God’s passion."-p.28

Graduation Gift

2008-05-27T20:02:00.004-05:00

Run out of ideas for a graduation gift?

Give your graduate a gift that will challenge, change, and inspire...

Read my Review

Buy it on Amazon

Do Hard Things

2008-05-26T21:34:00.004-05:00

Alex and Brett Harris, founders of http://TheRebelution.com, begin their handbook, Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations, with this explanation:
“Most people don’t expect you to understand what we’re going to tell you in this book. And even if you understand, they don’t expect you to care. And even if you care, they don’t expect you to do anything about it. And even if you do something about it, they don’t expect it to last. Well, we do (3).” Documenting their journey of doing hard things, providing a history of the cultural idea of “the teenager,” and debunking the myth of adolescence, the twins draw you into their challenge to travel beyond modern society’s expectations for your life.

I’ve appreciated Alex and Brett’s efforts and been involved in the movement since the Rebelution was a blogspot address, but reading the book placed long-known principles in a fresh perspective and challenged me to take new and larger action. The meat of this book lies in Part 2: Five Kinds of Hard. The Harris’s don’t just tell you to do hard things and then leave you hanging…they make you think about your hard things and seek out God’s plan for how you are going to change the culture.

They explore: “things that take you outside your comfort zone-taking risks to grow, things that go beyond what’s expected or required- pursuing excellence, things that are too big to accomplish alone-dreaming and daring big, things that don’t earn and immediate payoff-being faithful and choosing integrity, things that go against the cultural norm-taking a stand for what is right (212-213).”

Offering real-life examples from their adventures and the stories of other rebelutionaries, the twins explore the movement around the world. They explain the three pillars of the Rebelution “character, competence, and collaboration (176)” and show how you can take a plan of action. Closing with a challenge to do so, they also present the Gospel in an appendix. They leave us with these words: “Yes, it will be hard. But we’re Rebelutionary. We do hard things (224).”

My Hard Things

2008-05-26T21:24:00.006-05:00

The following classification and concept is taken from Do Hard Things by Alex and Brett Harris

Hard Things Outside My Comfort Zone:

Obtain Driver’s License-I need to offer to drive more and stop getting frustrated when I have to drive and park in situations that are tough for me.
Interview at the schools-Practice interviewing, and then actually go and talk to the principles (I teach piano at one private school and there's another local one I'd like to teach at. Thus far my mom and piano teacher have taken care of getting me set up.)
Conversing with and ministering to the elderly-Visit Mrs. Sawyer (my next door neighbor) at least once a month
Be more involved in exercise and team games-I’m not an outdoor person which means I’m sometimes a loner when hanging with friends. I know I’m not good at team games so I just don’t try. I need to try more and get some more Vitamin D.

Hard Things that Go Beyond What Is Expected or Required:

Study tough theology, hermeneutics, and works by great Christian men like C.S. Lewis, Francis Schaeffer, John Bunyan, and Jonathon Edwards
Pursue total excellence in music, writing, and reading
My mom has always stressed, neatness, going beyond what is expected, and honor and integrity in every area-I need to step up to the plate.
Learn to edit
Conquer my unwillingness to face and change relationships
Minister to my neighbors
Overcome selfishness in friendships that don’t meet “my” needs and expectations

Hard Things that Are Too Big to Accomplish Alone:

Form Tutor/Extra-curricular/Opportunities for Home-Schoolers of Alabama Database: Call all the church schools in Alabama
Ask questions and dream
Don’t stop with the family worship night in August, have more family music events-folk, multi-cultural, classical, holiday, hymns…
Get local friends together for meaningful discussion and activities
Education of true history and literature: Game Plan-Blog and Discussion Forum, Webzine, print magazine(outreach to private schools), books, children’s and teen programs for private school special presentations, camps, conferences, day, after-school, summer care programs. Incorporate hands-on projects to battle today’s historically relevant issues such as abortion, China’s slavery, etc.
Get Do Hard Things in the libraries
Prayer vigils

Hard Things that Don’t Earn an Immediate Payoff:

Laziness with housework
Discontent-I need to learn to “live in the moment.”
Spending focused time with God
Sewing and other home arts
Emotional purity
Humility
Self-control when aggravated by Greg
Jealous because God has brought certain people, events, and resources, into other people’s lives and not mine, instead of focusing on and rejoicing in what God has brought into my life.
“Losing it” when the unexpected occurs and I arrive in unknown territories.

Hard Things that Challenge the Cultural Norm:

Possessing natural, feminine grace
Being a lady and a Rebelutionaire in every situation-even when it’s easier to just follow the crowd or fall somewhere in between.
Be enthusiastic about my non-traditional, post-high school goals.

Issues Dear to My Heart:

Private and home education
China’s slavery
Abortion
Congress
Families with a heart to adopt but can't afford to.
Single mothers on welfare

Seventeen

2008-05-26T21:11:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I turned seventeen. I would like offer up some praises to Christ, my treasure, for being my blessing and for the gifts He has allowed me to enjoy this last year:

My wonderful Mama
Godly Female Mentors: Jan Causey, Kathy Brodock, Mischa Yoo, Jennie Chancey, and Sandy Ferrill.
Great friends: Aaron South, Olivia Brodock, Bethany Jenkins, Anna Matthews, Lindsay Keen, and Hannah Ferrill
Love for music and learning
Love for the home and my beautiful God-given role as a woman.
Great church home

He has helped me to begin conquering these hard things:

Comfortable with most strangers
Overcoming depression and self-bitterness
Comfortable with modesty standards and my appearance
Beginning to reject excuses and face life for what it is
Holding on to hope
Accepting and adapting to change

History Blog

2008-05-17T19:06:00.003-05:00

All young ladies who love history...please check out the new blog:

Daughters of His Story

The Finest of Arts

2008-05-17T19:05:00.003-05:00

"The finest of all the fine arts is the art of doing good and yet, it is the least cultivated.”

-T. DeWitt Talmage