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...