tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13569455460867778362023-11-16T05:35:09.322-06:00A New Story To TellMichellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-62969435670986551782014-01-08T16:31:00.000-06:002014-01-08T16:31:51.525-06:002014So I haven't posted a blog post since this time last year...crazy! That one person who reads this is probably really disappointed. Actually, I'm just writing this post to have an official place for my 2014 Joy Dare Collection. I'm just now getting around to getting started so I did days 1-8 today.<br />
<br />
1 - 3 Gifts Heard<br />
-silence<br />
-Blessed Be Your Name by Travis Cottrell<br />
-the hum of the washing machine<br />
<br />
2 - A Gift Outside, Inside, On a Plate<br />
-clear driveway and sidewalk<br />
-warmth<br />
-turkey, muenster, roasted red peppers, pickles on rye<br />
<br />
3 - 3 Graces You Overheard<br />
-children's laughter<br />
-son talking in his sleep<br />
-children getting along<br />
<br />
4 - A Gift Old, New, Blue<br />
-the Word<br />
-new cozy slippers and robe<br />
-jeans<br />
<br />
5 - Something You're Reading, Making, Seeing<br />
-Believing God by Beth Moore<br />
-plans, goals, changes<br />
-my children growing before my eyes<br />
<br />
6 - One Thing in Your Bag, Fridge, Heart<br />
-note from Rob from when we were dating<br />
-hummus<br />
-growing, deepening, maturing love for Rob<br />
<br />
7 - Graces From People You Love<br />
-affectionate, affirming words<br />
-hugs<br />
-laughter<br />
<br />
8 - Dusky Light, Surprising Reflection, Lovely Shadow<br />
-winter sky<br />
-seeing beauty in myself<br />
-shadow of Rob and I walking side-by-sideMichellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-59004079930240462772013-01-05T19:05:00.000-06:002013-01-05T19:05:14.006-06:00Brand New Year - Brand New JoysWell, my "official" list of joys in 2012 got up to 150. Since I'm starting in January, this year, I know I can far exceed that. I'm really excited about what 2013 has in store. I've made new commitments, not resolutions. I didn't go looking for something to change about myself or add on to my schedule since it's January. I have just been presented with some opportunities that I believe are God-given, and I'm really excited to jump in. So here begins my Joy List for 2013...<br />
<br />
1. Waking up to the smell of bacon<br />
2. A Saturday spent (mostly) at home<br />
3. Surprises<br />
4. Looking back<br />
5. Hot showers<br />
6. A shirt was too big that is now too tight<br />
7. Fixing Megan's hair (When did her head become level with mine? Wasn't she so very little just yesterday?)<br />
8. Kissing the top of Robby's head and drinking in that familiar scent<br />
9. Ice cream w/magic shell<br />
10. The tangy sour pop of capers in my Spanish rice<br />
<br />
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-19473023030225354252012-12-19T15:39:00.000-06:002012-12-19T15:39:12.771-06:00Joy List140. Christmas shopping w/my hubby<br />
141. A stack of neatly cut fabric<br />
142. Children's enthusiasm<br />
143. The "Check Engine" light not being lit up<br />
144. A cat with a string<br />
145. Glossy painted fingernails<br />
146. Surprises<br />
147. The jabbering as the kids approach the door when they get home from school<br />
148. Hot showers<br />
149. Rob's sense of humor<br />
150. A house full of peopleMichellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-48451483315015976702012-12-17T20:34:00.000-06:002012-12-17T20:34:33.124-06:00The Joy of 12/17/12131. A purring cat on my lap<br />
132. A peace that passes all understanding<br />
133. Teenagers on fire for God<br />
134. Mmmmm, coffee<br />
135. When kids mispronounce a word<br />
136. Exercise<br />
137. Fellowship with new friends<br />
138. Nativity sets<br />
139. A clean house<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-55365415340639959582012-12-16T23:50:00.000-06:002012-12-16T23:50:01.410-06:00A Day Full of Joy Gifts121. Watching my husband as he preaches<br />
122. Flickering candles and the way the wax dribbles down the sides and hardens<br />
123. Appetizers<br />
124. Buying food in bulk<br />
125. Shopping w/Robby for Megan's stocking<br />
126. Realizing for the first time in my life that I haven't given any thought whatsoever to what I want for Christmas<br />
127. Sunday afternoon nap w/my sweetie<br />
128. Cooperation and being of use in small ways<br />
129. The blending of talents and voices to create a beautiful offering<br />
130. My daughter's amazing confidence<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-17986333567142204952012-12-15T22:00:00.001-06:002012-12-15T22:01:19.622-06:00Joy, Joy, Joy110. Friends who pray<br />
111. Conversations with my children<br />
112. An answer to prayer and peace in the meantime<br />
113. Thoughtful gifts<br />
114. Christmas goodies<br />
115. Laughing<br />
116. Re-learning a game with friends<br />
117. An evening with friends<br />
118. Praying for friends<br />
119. New babies in the midst of sorrow<br />
120. Receiving Scentsy order and prints of family pictures (It's like Christmas morning!)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-29139272694863086082012-12-11T23:03:00.000-06:002012-12-11T23:03:48.879-06:00Today's Joys107. My fingers' memory of the computer keyboard<br />
108. A peace so unexplainable it can only come from God<br />
109. Sweet fellowship<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-54356296284233754832012-12-10T21:00:00.001-06:002012-12-10T21:00:31.645-06:0012/10/12 Joys100. Tender, affectionate words of affirmation from my love<br />
101. A doctor who can see me tomorrow<br />
102. My beautiful, sweet, courageous daughter<br />
103. Friends with pickups<br />
104. Robby's clean room - like everything is put away, nothing stuffed under the bed, closet is even clean<br />
105. My children playing Legos together<br />
106. Relaxing<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-52849413108009675152012-12-09T21:08:00.002-06:002012-12-09T21:08:26.941-06:00Oh the Joy!!!88. Watching cartoons from my childhood w/my kids<br />
89. Teaching Sunday school kids the meaning of the name Jesus<br />
90. Children leading us in advent services<br />
91. A lazy Sunday afternoon<br />
92. A young woman's anticipation of her first New Year's Eve kiss<br />
93. The smell of fresh hot pizza<br />
94. Belting out Christmas songs in the car<br />
95. Coming home to a happy family<br />
96. Rob and Robby playing Xbox together<br />
97. Megan's love of music<br />
98. Long, snuggly hugs from my hubby<br />
99. Making plans with friends<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-76420233161995392112012-12-08T23:18:00.000-06:002012-12-08T23:19:48.777-06:00Joy List - 12/8/1281. Sleeping in<br />
82. Chocolate chip pancakes (made by Rob) topped w/peanut butter & bananas<br />
83. The uplifting power of music<br />
84. A Saturday with nowhere to go<br />
85. Giving a piano to someone who can/will use it<br />
86. Robby singing along w/Christmas music<br />
87. Turning in my last assignment for this semester<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></b></div>
<br />
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-21377633754153470042012-12-07T16:40:00.000-06:002012-12-07T16:40:41.174-06:00Joy List for 12/7/12Sounds of children pretending<br />
Christmas lights<br />
Packing Meg's sleepover bag<br />
Pants with pockets (Why do they make them any other way?)<br />
A clean-swept floor<br />
Pease's chocolates<br />
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-5368401023160050782012-12-07T11:06:00.001-06:002012-12-07T11:10:25.582-06:00Fallen & Feeling It I've fallen behind on the Joy Dare and I'm feeling it. I am a generally upbeat, optimistic person. However, I am also prone to discontentment, envy, and self-pity. It is a sad fact that living a life of joy and thankfulness is something I need to practice and learn. It does not come naturally to my fallen nature. I was doing really well about following along with Ann Voskamp's daily prompts for a few weeks. Intentionally seeking out things to be thankful for has worked as kind of a course corrector for me. But, as I do with most good habits, I let life get busy and forgot to look for joy.<br />
<br />
When I lose sight of the joy and beauty to be found, I get swallowed whole by the ugliness and despair in the world. The human race is walking further and further away from God. We are consumed by the pleasures of this life. Our headlines are about the economy, how to look younger, what to get for Christmas, celebrity gossip, sex, losing weight, death. It is depressing and offers little hope for the future. Too often, I allow my entire day to consist of temporal worries and despair. I do not take the time to saturate myself with God's word and promises. I live like the rest of the world, fixated on the daily grind and wishing for things I don't need.<br />
<br />
But we have hope. I have hope. Jesus Christ has conquered death and sin and he will come again to take his people home. I should not focus on the grim and despair and forget that the Holy Spirit walks this earth in all who have called upon the name of the savior. We have power. I have power. I know the beauty and the hope and the joy and it is my privilege and responsibility to share that with a world in such desperate need. I am not like this world. I am not of this world. I am a subject of the kingdom of God, a daughter of the King. It's time to stop wallowing in the mud in tattered rags, bemoaning the fate of those around me. I must rise, put on my blood-washed garments and shine with the reflection of God's glory. I must make a difference in the world; that is why I am here.<br />
<br />
I must learn this art of gratitude and joy - not only for me, but for everyone I encounter. So, I embark again on this journey. I think I will leave Ann's prompts behind and just look for and focus on the gifts of joy that are given to me. Since I am still learning, I will continue (or rather re-start) keeping a daily account on this blog. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
<br />
<br />
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-41030786324290772092012-11-28T23:03:00.005-06:002012-11-28T23:04:07.456-06:00Gifts for yesterday and today<span style="font-size: large;"><u>A Gift Handmade, Held, Happy</u></span><br />
<u>-Handmade:</u> Gifts and cards from my children. I never really understood why parents liked the cheesy school project gifts until I started receiving them. They're very precious.<br />
<br />
<u>-Held:</u> My hand. In our living room, we have two recliners - one for Rob, one for me. In between the chairs is a little end table. Every so often, Rob will extend his hand and say "handser" and I will put my hand in his and he'll hold it for a while. My love language is touch and he knows it. I love his hugs and shoulder rubs and the way he holds my hand.<br />
<br />
<u>-Happy:</u> My mood. Just moments ago, I could feel myself getting angry and grumpy. I didn't have any reason to be that way. I find that those are the worst kinds of moods, the ones that are bad and you have no reason for feeling that way. Anyway, I knew I needed to catch up on my "Joy Dare" from yesterday and today. I didn't feel like it, but did it anyway. Now, as I'm reflecting on these gifts of joy, my mood is on the upswing.<br />
<br />
<u><span style="font-size: large;">3 Gifts in Community</span></u><br />
<u>-Strength:</u> It is difficult to go it alone. Having others join you in this walk gives you people to lean on, depend upon; and then you can do the same for them.<br />
<br />
<u>-Accountability:</u> This is something we don't see as much of these days, but it is so very important. In real community, there is sharing of joys, sorrows, and struggles. We can count on each other to straighten us out when our walk gets a little crooked.<br />
<br />
<u>-Camaraderie:</u> This is the truly fun part of community. We get together. We share experiences. We bond. We become family.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-83742959196981802422012-11-26T22:12:00.002-06:002012-11-26T22:13:02.244-06:003 Gifts Preparing-Helping the kids get ready in the mornings<br />
<br />
-Studying for Anatomy & Physiology class<br />
<br />
-Preparing our hearts and homes for Christmas<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-34746976656003844812012-11-25T14:58:00.003-06:002012-11-25T14:59:23.023-06:003 Gifts Ugly-Beautiful<span style="font-size: large;">-Exercise:</span> I dread it beforehand, I don't really enjoy it during, and I'm quite certain I look very, very ugly as I run or bike or lift. But the effects are very beautiful. I feel better. I have more energy. I am healthier and I even wear the same size jeans as when I was first married.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">-Childbirth: </span> It's hard and it hurts. A very private area is exposed and, quite frankly, looks worse than it ever has. The baby comes out all messy and screaming. But, oh the beauty. If I could bottle that moment and relive it over and over, I would be drunk on the beauty of it.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">-My life:</span> I have made some very poor choices and have sinned a million times over. I have experienced hurts and fear and loneliness. When I look at all that and focus in on just that, it is ugly and painful. I heard a speaker describe it like a tapestry. When we experience life with all its twists and turns and failures and hurts, it looks like a jumbled up mess with no sense at all - the back of the tapestry. But from God's perspective - the front of tapestry - he sees the beauty and intricacy and design of all those twists and turns. Beautiful.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-54722726192494240102012-11-24T21:46:00.001-06:002012-11-24T21:46:49.134-06:003 Gifts Humble-To be counted worthy of the life I have been given humbles me greatly. I do not deserve the way that God lavishly and ridiculously blesses me time and time again.<br />
<br />
-Christ being born in a stable is the humblest of gifts. When I do a good deed, shamefully I want it announced with fanfare and I get a little grumpy if the proper appreciation is not shown. But the co-creator of the universe, Lord of all, King of Kings, son of God came to Earth as a poor baby in a manger. His arrival was the gift the world had been waiting for and hardly anyone even noticed.<br />
<br />
-Christ dying on a cross was the humblest of sacrifices. The savior of all mankind, the holy lamb of God could have called down legions of angels to rescue him. Instead he chose to give up his life in a gruesome, unworthy manner; and he did it for you and for me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-33855604793079999842012-11-23T22:19:00.000-06:002012-11-23T22:19:30.256-06:003 Gifts Only in Christ<span style="font-size: large;">Salvation - </span><br />
-Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) <br />
-Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him. (John 3:36)<br />
-And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Hope - </span><br />
-Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. (Hebrews 10:23)<br />
-Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (1 Peter 1:3)<br />
-For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience (Romans 8: 24-25)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Purpose - </span><br />
-Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. (Matthew 28: 19-20)<br />
-The heart of man plans his way, but the L<span style="font-size: x-small;">ORD</span> establishes his steps. (Proverbs 16:9)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-37091634500673886932012-11-22T10:00:00.004-06:002012-11-22T10:01:10.016-06:00A Gift Grateful<span style="font-size: large;">Facebook Gratefulness </span>- I love Facebook in November. Even people who are normally pessimistic and tend to complain, choose to post the daily "thankful" statuses. It's a refreshing change and does my heart good to see people appreciating the blessings they're given. There is always...always something to be thankful for.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-36784675041042431672012-11-21T21:21:00.003-06:002012-11-21T21:22:19.577-06:003 Gifts Family<span style="font-size: large;">-Family I was born into:</span> Over the years, I have grown closer and closer to my two sisters. As with most siblings, we didn't always get along growing up; but I always knew they were there for me. Now we live far apart, but I think we're closer than ever. My mom and dad are wonderful. Still happily married after 41 years. They love us girls and all our crazy kids. I also have a very large family of cousins and aunts and uncles and grandparents. I love them all. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">-Family I helped create: </span>Over sixteen years ago, I married the most wonderful man. Five years later, our little family grew and two years later it grew some more. I can't begin to describe how blessed I am with this family God has gifted me.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">-Family of friends:</span> Living far away from family and being in ministry makes it difficult to get "home" often. God has placed wonderful friends in my life who have become family to me. They are so very precious to me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-24574016297067984012012-11-20T08:20:00.001-06:002012-11-20T08:21:12.044-06:00Yesterday's & Today's Joy Dare<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>3 Gifts Autumn</u></b></span><br />
<b>-Beautiful Colors:</b> God paints the most gorgeous pictures!<br />
<br />
<b>-Jeans and Hoodies:</b> Even though I prefer the hot weather, I do love when it's cool enough to bundle up in a comfy hoodie.<br />
<br />
<b>-Church & Family Gatherings:</b> Weinie roasts, Trunk-or-Treats, Thanksgiving dinners<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">3 Gifts of Traditions</span></u></b><br />
<b>-Prayer:</b> When Meg was a baby, we started praying the same nighttime prayer with her. Then Robby joined us after he was born. It went unchanged for years. We all had it memorized and it was our nightly tradition for years. As our kids got older, we realized that the words were losing their meaning because we had recited it for so long. Now when we pray at night, it is whatever comes from the heart of whoever is leading us. More often than not, Robby volunteers. His prayers bring me joy and humble me all at the same time. He almost always remembers to pray for people to come closer to Christ and for those in our life who are struggling. <br />
<br />
<b>-Gathering:</b> I love having a house full of people. I love gathering together for holidays, or just for the fun of it. For the past several years, we have had a group of people over for New Year's. It's always so much fun, food, games, and a silly string fight at midnight. The past couple years, we have had Thanksgiving here at our house. We are not able to get together with extended family, so instead we gather with good friends who are also on their own for the holiday. This year, we are adding another friend to our numbers.<br />
<br />
<b>-Sunday Mornings:</b> I grew up attending church services every Sunday. I went a couple years, as an adult, without a "church home." But other than that, nearly every Sunday morning of my life has been spent with fellow believers. The gathering doesn't always look the same or do the same order of worship, but that makes the tradition all the more sweet.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-54857370448041108912012-11-18T22:32:00.000-06:002012-11-18T22:32:27.117-06:00A Gift Made, Shared, Passed On<b><span style="font-size: large;">Made - </span></b>Christmas in Joplin: We get to spend Christmas day with my parents, and sisters, brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews. As if that weren't a great enough gift of joy; my sister suggested that we do homemade gifts this year. Not only will this cut down on the expense, but the gifts will come from the heart and will be oh-so-fun to put together!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Shared - </b></span>Struggles and joys: This life is made so much sweeter because I get to share it with my love, my family, my friends.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Passed On - </b></span>Knee pads: A young lady at our church has befriended my daughter and has encouraged her to take up volleyball. Tonight, she passed down a pair of knee pads so Meg would have the proper equipment to get started.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-75402593698534162542012-11-17T19:59:00.002-06:002012-11-17T20:02:03.340-06:003 Gifts of Laughter<span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">1) My family's silly sense of humor - I'm quite certain we are not nearly as entertaining as we think we are, but we have so much fun together. Laughter is a very common occurrence in the Petersen home.</span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">2)Baby giggles - Really, is there anything better?</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">3)Gathering with friends - Retelling the same old stories and laughing just as hard as you did the first time you heard it. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-90098010684319093742012-11-16T16:50:00.003-06:002012-11-16T16:52:50.908-06:0011/15 and 11/16 Gifts<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>3 Gifts Golden</u></b></span><br />
<u>1) The golden rule</u> - So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the law and the prophets (Matthew 7:12). What an important and simple rule for life! It's not always easy, but it is always right. <br />
<br />
<u>2) The golden years</u> - I have the sheer joy of spending time with many in their golden years. I always learn something from my time with them. Usually it is a lesson in grace, wisdom, and patience. I pray that I hold onto those lessons through my own golden years.<br />
<br />
<u>3) Bands of gold</u> - I have posted previously about my wedding set and how much it means to me. Rob has recently started wearing his wedding ring again. I love seeing that circle of gold on his finger. My heart is filled with pride and joy in knowing that he is my husband. This may be TMI, but I also find it extremely sexy when he wears it. That's right, I'm a preacher's wife and I find my husband sexy.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>3 Gifts Hard Eucharisteo</u></b></span><br />
<u>1) Cold weather</u> - I love summer with the heat and the sun. I love spring with new life and warming temps. I love early fall with the changing leaves and jeans and sweatshirts. I don't love late fall and winter with dry skin and grey skies and the bare landscape. Cold weather months are just hard for me. But, what would spring and summer and early fall be without the colder months. There would be no new life unless the trees were stripped bare. Every season has a purpose and a place.<br />
<br />
<u>2) The miles that separate me from family</u> - It's hard being six hours away from my parents, sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandma. I hurt over this when one of them is sick. I am jealous when they gather for a birthday or holiday or just for fun. However, the separation makes the time with them even sweeter. I also believe that one reason I am so close to my husband and my children is because we are the only family we have close by. We have also been forced to discover the joy of making friends into family.<br />
<br />
<u>3) Death</u> - I can't say I will ever be thankful for death, but there is good to be found in it. Cancer claimed the lives of two very godly, beautiful people very recently. As much as they will be missed here and mourned over, there is hope in their passing. They will suffer no more. Cancer can't touch their glorified bodies. They are with their savior and we will see them again. Also, death gives me a very hard reminder that this world is not my home. I will never find perfection here on Earth. Death sends me running to the arms of Christ.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-42904764854870239152012-11-14T08:51:00.000-06:002012-11-14T08:52:55.191-06:00It's Another Two-for-one<span style="font-size: large;">3 Gifts Behind a Door</span><br />
1) My beautiful daughter - A few days ago, I opened the door to Megan's room and she was inside dancing. In that moment, I was struck with how beautiful and grown-up she is. She is becoming quite the young lady!<br />
<br />
2) Our remodeled bathroom - We've been keeping the door closed so the cats won't get in there while there are still holes, etc for them to get in. It's coming along well and going to be very nice when it's done.<br />
<br />
3) Carl Dahlquist - A dear, wonderful man of God, I just can not say enough nice things about him. He went to be on the heaven's side of death's door yesterday. He is in the midst of his savior and friends and family who have gone before him. Cancer has never touched him there. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3 Gifts Silent</span><br />
1) The moments before anyone else is up - This morning I was actually grumbly about these moments. I wanted to sleep in, but knew I had to get up. My husband was still in bed. I hadn't gotten the kids up yet. I trudged around the house, grumbling about every little thing that irritated me. I realized later in the morning that it's good that I'm up before everyone else. I can get my grumpies out and be woke up enough to greet them pleasantly when they get up.<br />
<br />
2) Coffee time - I know, another post about coffee. The kids have already gone off to school. Rob is in his recliner sipping coffee. I am in mine doing the same. We're not always completely silent, but sometimes we are and we are both comfortable being silent together.<br />
<br />
3) Isaiah 53:7 - He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1356945546086777836.post-75023674526036827462012-11-12T22:02:00.001-06:002012-11-12T22:03:19.331-06:003 Gifts at Noon1)Butternut squash made by my sweet hubby.<br />
2)Eating that soup with my hubby & the contractor who's working on the bathroom.<br />
3)Did I mention there were pita chips with the soup? Did I mention I really, really like pita chips?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">give thanks in all circumstances;</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">for this is the will of God</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #446666; color: #cceedd; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.899999618530273px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;">in Christ Jesus for you.</span></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00982924615462743216noreply@blogger.com0