Catching Up

It has been too long since I have written on here. Please forgive me if I forget anything!!

Well, it's official I am done with my first semester of graduate school! I am hoping for all A's, but we shall see. But starting from the earliest events... My friend Karolyn, Kellie and I went to see The Twilight movie the weekend before Thanksgiving. It was a good movie, I do not read the books but if I did I am sure I would enjoy it even more... but not time for that!! The same weekend, on Sunday, my friends Brachele and Jennifer hosted a baby shower for our dear friend Robin. Her and Matt are having a baby girl, Ella. I can't wait to meet her!

Next on the list... Thanksgiving Break! I enjoyed every minute of it. Wednesday night Kellie, Seth, Michael and I left for Houston and within 24 hours we were back to Fort Worth. I hate that the trip was so short, but I am glad that we were able to see almost everyone that day! It is such and amazing blessing to have so many people to love!!

The week after Thanksgiving I had a final 20 page paper due and a take home test...this kept me VERY busy. Work has also been picking up rapidly as many international students are sending in their applications for Fall 2012. We did get a little break/surprise... My Daddy came to visit us and we got to celebrate Kellie's 20th Birthday!! It was so sweet to spend time with him! He spoiled us rotten!! :P



I am so proud of my little sister. She is growing up so fast and choosing a path for her life that is praising to God. It's a hard road to follow after Christ, but in the end it will all be worth it!

 At Cracker Barrel

Celebrating her Birthday at Ferre

"Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate."
Proverbs 31: 30-31 

"delight...in the law of the Lord" Psalm 1:2

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God" Matthew 5:8

"stir up one another to love and good works" Hebrews 10:24

On the Mind

Lord, thank you. Thank you that you saw my afflictions and sought after me, even in the darkest of hours. Thank you that you gave me the courage to leave wordily desires behind and run after what is eternal. Thank you for the grace you showed on the Cross through your Son Jesus, You, three in One, became flesh and lived a life free of sin. You know the struggles that we face, and you know how hard it is to battle. Thank you for your Words, the Words that are truth and help guide us through temptations, anxiety, fear, loneliness...etc, its a never ending list. But You have come to give us an answer, to give us peace, joy, kindness and thankfulness. I pray that everyone would make You their number 1- the reason why they breathe. Lord, You are to be our EVERYTHING and You know our hearts desires and once we seek after You, You will guide us and teach us what is righteous, not what this world says is righteous. I, nor no one is perfect, and to find grace in You gives me comfort.

"Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16

"For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and wordily passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope- the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good." Titus 2: 11-14

Thank you Jesus.

My Best Friend is Prego!

It's official one of my best friends in the world is pregnant!! Brittany and Josh have been married almost 2 years (in March) and I am so happy for them. God has blessed them with an amazing gift and responsibility. Brittany has wanted to be a mother ever since I met her. Her nurturing heart is meant to be used for little one(s) :) (and Josh of course!) But the joy that it brings me to see her and the smile on her face is priceless. When she told me I was a hot mess, and I mean excited, overwhelmed, over joyed, surprised and in love. (yes I cried too) I don't even know him or her yet and I love it so much. This little bean that is inside her, oh wait, grape now, :P is so precious to me. I can't wait to meet baby!!

This is how she told the "world"--- So SWEET!

Lord, I pray that you keep the little one healthy and safe. Father, give Brittany and josh the knowledge and comfort it takes to be at this stage in the pregnancy. I know that you are all mighty and have every ounce of this child in your hands. You formed baby before the world began, set a name for baby, and loved baby and I pray that growing up baby will love you. What a lucky one to have them as parents, I pray you continue to ministry in their lives and get them ready for the many fun and hard adventures ahead. In Jesus name, Amen.

Trip to Houston

This past weekend my sister and I were able to go on a little road trip to Houston. It was a long time coming, as I miss my family dearly. But before we headed to Houston I wanted to stop by my old Starbucks to see some of the people I saw EVERYDAY for a long time. On our way over there I called and simply asked "who is working?" Sweet Courtney gave me her name and every one else... she sounded a little creeped out. :P I thanked her and hung up! I walked in the door and there were the most beautiful faces- all smiling!! As soon as I saw Sarah I couldn't help my myself, the tears began to fall... She is pregnant and I have missed it, but I am so thankful that she is prego and  that God is Good! All the ladies looked so beautiful, Tara and her exciting adventures ahead are so sweet, maybe she will be a co-worker with me?!?! :P Courtney and her new hubby... she is one awesome lady, working 2 jobs- I love it!! And of course there is Stephen, oh Stephen...haha I am so happy for him and his wife, newly married a few weeks ago!! I will say there was one really sad thing about the surprise visit, my Patrick was not there, aka Sammy. But I hope to see her soon, I know UTA will be her stomping ground soon (fingers crossed) So now, on to Houston...

Friday I ate lunch with my little sister Katherine, aka Subea, and she loved it. She is growing up so fast and I hate that I can't be there more to see it. She is so beautiful and smart! I did "embarrass" her after lunch, I know I know, I shouldn't have done it, but I couldn't help myself! I gave her a big kiss on the cheek and said "I LOVE YOU" all her little friends giggled, I think one little boy said, "ooo kisses". Later I find out from mom her version of the story... she secretly loved it :)

Next on the trip was my sweet sweet time with my long time friend Haleigh! Wow, had it been a long time since we had seen each other. Seriously I think at least 3 years. But of course as soon as we got together it was like no time had passed at all. Her love for her husband and family is so refreshing to see and hear about. Her heart is focused and truly seeking after God's provision for the next steps in their life! :) 

I also got to spend time with my grandparents. Both have been such an inspiration for my life. I am truly blessed to have such great support and love. My mommy too, I got see her a lot, she is wonderful! ;) Also seeing Deb and Dad was great, we love talking politics with them! haha. 

Happy Birthday Missy

Today is one of my best friends birthdays and I am so honored and blessed to be able to call her that. She has been such an amazing example of what the love of Christ is in daily living. She gives of herself; to her school children, husband Ryan (love ya bro) and her friends and family. Of course she will tell you that her love comes from the joy and peace that is in Christ Jesus alone and without Him none of this would be possible, or at least as joy filled.

Missy and I met in College our sophomore year and were connected from the start. She was so sweet and we both wanted to get to know each other :) That winter we REALLY all got to know each other as Miss spent the night with us (me, Britt and brachele) because of the icy roads and snow. We were literally in our P.J's for over 24 hours!! What a sweet time that was!! Our friendships just continued to blossom and strengthen as we went through trials and tribulations. I think one of my favorite times was our graduation trip to Florida! Man did we go grow together!! ;) Then one by one God brought our husbands into our lives and married we went, and then there was 8.

I can't wait to see our children play together... I love you Missy and I hope you have a wonderful birthday, my little owl. *muah*

Missy's virtual cupcake
(she does not like cake, BUT I know she will think it's cute)

Take a look back at the years... But there will be MANY more to come...

Celebration!!! :)

For you created my inmost being;
   you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
   your works are wonderful,
   I know that full well.  My frame was not hidden from you
   when I was made in the secret place,
   when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
Psalms 139: 13-15

Resting in His Grace

Well another day... this morning on my balcony I watched the sun rise and listened to the birds, what a beautiful song they sing. I know in my heart they sing praises to their Creator. Knowing that He feeds them and gives them shelter, all the more I am comforted by my current state. As I was reading His word this morning (in Philippians chapter 1) I could not help but think about Pastor Yousef in Iran sitting as Paul did in a cell awaiting his fate. I pray diligently for him and hope that he will find comfort in the words of Christ. (see article on http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2011/10/03/u-s-support-for-iranian-pastor-continues-to-grow/) I pray that he clings to the messages of Paul and will be encouraged by his circumstance. My little life here seems but a mere speck compared to the many who have become martyrs for Christ. But i know that God has called me to where I am and I strive to be a light, even in my little bubble here in DFW. I ask God for boldness- that I can be a bright light and live out my days here on earth wrapped in the beauty and grace of Christ Jesus. The scriptures that I read this morning below, please be encouraged by them...

"Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear. It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
   Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me." Philippians 1: 12-30 (emphasis added by me)
 
 
Another update.... We had Family Camp with our Church a few weekends ago and it was a great time of fellowship and time away from the city. Kellie enjoyed getting to know more people! My favorite part was the hay ride! Yes, the hay ride!! We went out at about 10pm and the night sky was breathtaking! I can't remember the last time I saw so many stars and planets. The Milky Way seemed only a few feet away, and Jupiter was brighter than any other star in the sky!! What an amazing creation He did in creating the Universe!!
 

This was a contest...who ever could put the FROZEN shirt on first, won. Of course it was like a block of frozen ice!!! :)

 
 

We have had a few lake days as well at Grapevine lake with Kellie and the doggies! :) They were wiped out...

 

Time to Catch Up

What a beautiful morning it is today. The sunrise was breathtaking and the crisp air of fall is slowly creeping its way into our DFW world. I look forward to snuggling under covers and starting a fire in the fireplace. So may things have happened since I posted last, let's start from the beginning...

We had a wonderful surprise as Seth's dad came to DFW to watch his step-son, Kevin Perry play against SMU, and we all got to go to the game! It was so awesome to see him, Conya, Landon, Michael and Kevin.

                      Landon has grown so much since we saw him last. He is taller than me!!!

                                Landon and Michael being goofy as always.

We also got to see Marty a long time friend of their family. We had a late night... but it was worth it. We enjoyed every minute of it! Let's see, that following week we had school and work on the brain. Kellie is currently looking for a job, keep that in your prayers.

The best part of my weekend was my brother Matt making a surprise visit!! I am so happy to see him and to get to spend time with him. He stayed the night and got some of Seth and I's home cookin' it was great!! The dogs really seemed to love him too... they would not leave his side!! :)

Also this past weekend was Sidney's Bachelorette Party, it was fun to see her and spend some time with Brachele, Brittany and Jenn too. She is going to be such a beautiful bride. I can't wait to see her and Danny get married!!

Sid all dressed up in her bachelorette party gear

The next morning I woke up not feeling very good. My throat was sore and I was more tired than usually...I took the dogs down stairs to go potty and I saw this...

It gave me energy! I took a few moments to worship the Lord in His beauty and I thought about how He keeps all His promises. He is perfect in every way and takes care of His children.

"When the bow is in the cloud, then I will look upon it, to remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” And God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant which I have established between Me and all flesh that is on the earth.” Genesis 9:16-17

Long Relaxing Weekend

Having 3 days off of work was very relaxing. Friday night Kellie and I went out to dinner and had really great conversations. We talked about the memories of childhood and what we want to accomplish in life. It was sweet.
Saturday we studied all day and hung out at the house mostly. Sunday was church and Sunday night our friends the Quinn's invited us over for a cook-out and watch the Aggie game. It was fun to be with them and other friends :)

Monday was my favorite day. I woke up to 76 degrees and light winds. I spent about 2 hours on the patio reading and tried to be outside as much as I could. The doggies, kitty, Kellie and I enjoyed hanging out on the patio. I opened all the windows too to let the fresh air in. 

Here is a picture of the doggies, I thought you might want an update on their looks... haha Seth gave them a shave not to long ago.

Love and miss my family dearly. Can't wait to go to Houston for Thanksgiving!! (Maybe before)

"My God, how many are my fears

How vast my foes increase

Conspiring my eternal death

They break my fleeting peace

But you my glory and my strength

Will on my tempter tread

Will silence all my threatening guilt

And raise my drooping head

Arise, Oh Lord, fulfill your grace

While I your glory sing;

My God has broke the serpent's teeth

And death has lost his sting"

- Words by Isaac Watts, adapted by Rebecca Dennison. 

Christian worship should be a meditation on the gospel

My heart is FULL. I am so thankful for everything that God has provided for me and my family. The joy, peace and glory that fill my heart come from my Savior.

We were able to find a car for Kellie to use while she is living with us (under our budget) we could not stop thanking God as it has been a long time looking and disappointments, but it shows that patience and trust in the Lord is beautiful.

I started the Master's program this week. I am really excited to learn and study. I have two great professors. Two opposite ends of the teaching spectrum; one is laid back- "tell me what you want to learn" and the other is very structured and covers ALL his bases. I love both!

Seth and I are diving into Children's Church...we are excited to serve as it is needed. We get to try out our parenting skills too :)

I also have the honor of helping lead worship at our church. Mike, the worship leader is very passionate about his role and our roles as leaders in worship to the congregation. When we worship our goal is to honor Christ and focus on the Good News. He sent us an article to read about Issac Watts, the father of the English Hymns. The article is awesome and full of praise to the gospel. If you have time here it is: http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/tgc/2011/04/06/isaac-watts-the-reformer-you-know-by-heart-but-not-by-name/

You Lord are the reason why we sing. Every morning is a gift and an opportunity to show Your love to others around us. We are here to honor and bring glory to You our King and Creator. Help me to be a light in this dark world. Give me the courage and boldness to fight for your gospel and teach others about who You are, as You have died for the whole world- the precious perfect Lamb who took on the sins of every man, past present and future, so that we may live eternally with You.

MY SISTER

My sweet Sister Kellie moves in today! I am so excited that she is going to school and starting a new chapter in her life! I am praying that she grows, grows, grows. :) Plus I get to see my mother and little little sister Katherine. They will be staying the weekend with us!!

Great Time with the Girls and Other Thoughts

It was a sweet time last night with the girls. We celebrated our lives- where God has us and knowing that we are friends through thick and thin is comforting. I give my thanks to the Lord who makes it possible daily.

My prayer is that we as wives, sisters, soon to be mothers, and friends "be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things- that [we] admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be dishonored." Titus 2:3-5

Also, this past weekend we got to see Brachele's family for her sister Braley's birthday. It was fun seeing her and her little girl, Raylen and catching up on their lives. :)



"Exhort bondservents to be obedient to their own masters, to be well pleasing in all things, not answering back, not pilfering, but showing all good fidelity, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things." Titus 2:9-10

Last Sunday Pastor Rod went over this verse in Titus. I must strive to be trustworthy, not just at home but a work and do my best to bring glory to God. I look forward to seeing what God is going to teach me.
Thank you for reading! 

In Him- Christa

Catching Up

Wow, I have been one busy lady these past few weeks. Let's see, where did I leave off...

Kellie is moving in with Seth and I on August 12th! We are excited to have her and looking forward to the relationship that will hopefully be built while she is here. Continue to pray for Seth and I as we disciple her in our home.

The next week, the 24-28th was BUSY! I left work early Thursday and headed to Houston for a fun weekend with my grandparents. When we got there Thursday night we met up with my Dad and Deb, that was a really sweet time and I am so thankful for their support and love! Oh, and thank you for the advice, he changed his major to Accounting. ;P  We stayed the night with them too!

Friday morning we left bright and early to Louisiana with the Papa and Meemee. Seth and I had a great time, our favorite part was spending quality time with them. Here are some pictures from our little adventure!

 Meemee and I...can you see the resemblance here :)

 My sweet Papa and I

 The fresh flowers at the Spa!

 Hanging out Pool side...

 There is a lazy pool

Gelato, mmmmm

So when we got back to Houston we had to hurry and head to College Station. Michael, my brother-in-law was also accepted to UTA for education (he wants to be a Teacher and Coach) so we helped him move up here. **We are slowly but surely getting the family to Fort Worth ;)** 

With my Birthday and our Anniversary right around the corner Seth and I were happy to celebrate time for US. 4 years, yes, 4 years! Thank you Seth for loving me unconditionally and know that I love you and the more time we spend together the more I fall in love with you. :)
And Seth is so sweet because he took me shopping for my birthday!! I also got to use the birthday card from my Nanny and Granddaddy! Can you tell I am excited?!?!? We had a great time together. Then the night of my birthday we took our friends Matt and Brachele out to dinner...I know it sounds strange b/c they should be taking me out, right?? BUT while we were gone for 4 days they watched our animals and we loved getting them dinner, plus we got to celebrate! See below!! 

 Raspberry Cheesecake...one of my favorites!

 Matt decided to take pictures while we were "trying" not to laugh...

 Still can't seem to get it....

 There we go!! :)

What great moments. I am so thankful for the Friends and family in my life. And thank you all for the birthday wishes and sweet messages!! The girls and I are going to celebrate mine and Brachele's b-day soon, that is going to so much fun, can't wait.

Through all this celebration and business, I remember to take time out of my day to spend with the Lord. It is easy to allow all the activity of life take over your life. I have to remind myself to STOP and thank the Lord for all He has done for me and meditate on His word.

One of our best friends Matt Harkey preach last Sunday and he hit on something that has been on my heart since I heard it, "biblical prosperity is increasing in Goldy influence, and the addition of responsibility" As a society we think that being prosperous means acquiring "things", but the truth is, success comes from increasing in Godly influence: meditating on the word, allowing Christ to mold the desires of our hearts into His and to know God.

Whatever is constantly on my mind will be what my heart desires and what will shape my world view. I want to strive to see the world through God's eyes; following his 2 most important commands: Love the Lord my God with all my heart, soul and mind and love my neighbor, and really love them, like Christ loves me.

^"How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked,
Nor stand in the path of sinners,
Nor sit in the seat of scoffers!
But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
And in His law he meditates day and night.

He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water,
Which yields its fruit in its season
And its leaf does not wither;
And in whatever he does, he prospers.

The wicked are not so,
But they are like chaff which the wind drives away.
Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
Nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
For the LORD knows the way of the righteous,
But the way of the wicked will perish." Psalm 1