Hall Ways

Community Matters

2012-01-10T21:04:00.000-05:00

At least it should. It does for us in a huge way. Although I don't think most people know what is meant when you talk about community, especially in the Christian context. Community has become a bit of a buzzword in a lot of churches. Which is good because we are called as believers to be apart of and to live in community (Gen. 2:18, Eph. 2:19, 1 Jn. 1:7). The problem is very few people take the time to define what they mean by community. When I say the word community I mean having a group of friends with whom you do all of life. The people who know what trials you are facing, what joys you have experienced. They are the people who have permission to point out things wrong in your life. They are the people who have the courage and the love for you to openly confront sin, especially sin you may be blind too.
A lot of people read that and think that does not sound appealing. Having people who are so in your business that they know everything about your life sounds miserable. I would contend that the reason people feel this way is because they don't have a true grasp of the gospel. In the death and resurrection of Christ, which is the central content of the gospel, we see pride torn down and thrown aside. We see the need to earn our salvation nailed to a cross so we do not have to bear that unliftable burden. It is hard for us to draw close to people because we are afraid of what they will think when they really get to know us. This is what the gospel destroys. Through the cross of Christ you are freed from the weight of having to impress people. You do not have to out work other Christians in the game of holiness. The ground around the cross is completely level. No one gets to lean against the cross because they are more deserving of the love of God than someone else. When we begin to truly grasp the gospel then we will truly be drawn into community.
Community matters for us. 2011 was a very difficult year. Between the normal busyness of work, school and family we walked through 2 miscarriages in 5 months. I know God would have helped us through those difficulties if we were not involved in community. But the grace of God in our life placed great friends around us so they could comfort us and encourage us and bring us dinner and cry with us and speak words of truth into our lives. So thank you Adams, Askins, Haddoxes and Morgans for being apart of our lives. We love doing life with you and we are so thankful for all God is teaching us through our community.

The Art of Remembering

2012-01-01T20:05:00.000-05:00

The start of a new year always makes me reflect on life, especially in the last year. There are so many moments that seem to influence and shape your life in a given year. This past year we have had triumphant events, finishing two more semesters of school, and tragic events, losing two babies to miscarriage. In between those two things are hundreds of more little events that moved our life along. How are we suppose to remember all of these things? Is it even worth trying to remember?
In thinking about this I have decided it is absolutely worth remembering. But I want to remember in a very intentional way. I want to remember not just random events or difficulties we experienced. I want to remember God's hand in those moments. I want to remember how He taught us through joys and pains. I want to remember how He provided exactly when He needed to. I want to remember these things not only for my own soul, but also for our son. I want him to know, that when I talk about the greatness and faithfulness of God, it is not mere words, but a life where He has shown himself faithful.
So I have come to the conclusion that the best way to remember is by writing things down. Since we have this blog what better place for us to record the ways God is revealing himself to us as we walk through this life. In a few days we will mark living in Louisville for 2 years. It is hard to believe it has been that long. I wish we had started recording the ways God has moved in us and for us these last two years much earlier, but today is a start. Here is a list of just a few ways God got us to Louisville and how he has guided us ever since...

1. An amazing church that is centered on the gospel, sojournchurch.com
2. A community group who has become like a family to us
3. Love and encouragement from our families as we stepped out in faith to move here
4. Money for moving expenses, insurance, tuition, textbooks, and the list could go on
5. A job within two weeks of moving here (I had absolutely no job prospects lined up before moving)
6. A great place to live with bills included in the rent
7. Gospel-centered counselors to walk us through the difficulties of two miscarriages
8. An amazing education from Southern Seminary that has deepened our love for God (I say our because Meredith has been able to take seminary wives classes that have really stirred her heart and affections for the things of God)
9. My job providing enough for Meredith to stay home with Benjamin
10. A healthy and rambunctious little boy
11. Celebration of 5 years of marriage

This is just a small sampling of the many ways God has shown himself faithful. Hopefully over the next months and years we will be able to add many more post to this blog about what God is doing in and through us.

Through the Love of God our Saviour

2011-05-15T14:49:00.000-04:00

1. Through the love of God our Saviour,
All will be well;
Free and changeless is His favor,
All, all is well:
Precious is the blood that healed us,
Perfect is the grace that sealed us;
Strong the hand stretched forth to shield us,
All must be well.

2. Though we pass through tribulation,
All will be well;
Christ hath purchased full salvation,
All, all is well:
Happy still in God confiding;
Fruitful, if in Christ abiding;
Holy, through the Spirit’s guiding;
All must be well.

3. We expect a bright to-morrow,
All will be well;
Faith can sing through days of sorrow,
All, all is well:
On our Father’s love relying,
Jesus every need supplying,
Then in living or in dying,
All must be well.

by Mary Peter

Fall in Louisville...

2010-10-25T21:08:00.000-04:00

A Run That Glorified God

2010-08-22T15:45:00.002-04:00

I've had this unusual struggle recently with leaving Sunday worship in a bad mood. Some might counsel me, "Well, maybe you should go to a different church". But, I don't think that's the answer. I'm pretty sure the Bible never measures a healthy church by the mood of those attending it. And I do believe this is a good church for us. The gospel is proclaimed, the teaching is sound, we have found a place to serve, and the fellowship within our Community Group has been huge in making Louisville feel like home.

I made a comment to Derek as we walked out, "The mingling after church makes me feel like I'm in junior high again." "What do you mean?" he said back. "It's all just awkward small talk. It's all very shallow," I replied. He was quiet for awhile... I hate it when he gets quiet. Finally, he said, "I don't like that phrase "small talk", and it's only shallow if you make it that way. It's only shallow if you are not interested in what the other person is saying." Ouch!

So, then I was really in a bad mood. I'm the one who's shallow. We get home, and I decide to go for a run to process all this. At some point, I realize that what actually makes it junior high is standing there waiting to see who will come talk to me. (I'm yelling at myself to grow up.) Next time, I need to go initiate a conversation! But, back to the run... I know the problem is me and my sinful heart, but how do I work through that? It strikes me that my sin is pride manifesting itself as self pity. Poor me, no one will come and talk to me.

Throw on top of all that a greater need to love others. I have it in me to do that. I have Christ in me who is God. And God is love. So, how do I flee this darkness?

All this is going through my head as I'm running. Then, the coolest thing! The lyrics to the Charlie Hall song "Marvelous Light" start playing through my head. "Into marvelous light I'm running, out of darkness, out of shame. By the cross You are the truth, You are the life, You are the Way." And I'm running, and the sun is beaming down on me, and I know this is from God.

I don't have to act like the person I was in junior high, because I'm not that person anymore. In Christ I am a new creation. The old has passed away; the new has come.

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." -2 Corinthians 5:17

It's good to get a glimpse into the depths of our depravity. My struggles include pride, self pity, fearing man more than I fear God, seeking the approval of man over the approval of God... the list goes on and on. But, in Christ I'm facing down the darkness. I'm not who I was. My life is hidden with Christ. I pray and plead with God that this would be evident! I am a wretched creature apart from the grace of Jesus Christ.

"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God." -Colossians 3:1-3

Derek challenged me to initiate a conversation with someone after church next Sunday. And not to let it be shallow or junior high. In fact, there was a woman sitting in front of us today holding a baby about Benjamin's age who smiled at me twice. I'm pretty sure I could have had a "real" conversation with her. I repent of my pride. Lord, forgive me. By Your grace, I will love others better.

So, this is how my inner self is renewed day by day (2 Cor 4:16, Eph 4:23); this is how I set my mind on things above and not on earthly things (Col 3:2); this is how even a run can bring glory to God (1 Cor 10:31).

Verse 1
I once was fatherless,
a stranger with no hope;
Your kindness wakened me,
Awakened me, from my sleep

Verse 2
Your love it beckons deeply,
a call to come and die.
By grace now I will come
And take this life, take your life.

Pre-chorus
Sin has lost it's power,
death has lost it's sting.
From the grave you've risen
VICTORIOUSLY!

Chorus
Into marvelous light I'm running,
Out of darkness, out of shame.
By the cross you are the truth,
You are the life, you are the way

Verse 3
My dead heart now is beating,
My deepest stains now clean.
Your breath fills up my lungs.
Now I'm free. now I'm free!

Bridge
Lift my hands and spin around,
See the light that i have found.
Oh the marvelous light
Marvelous light

Lift my hands and spin
See the light within...

Fun in our Texas home.

2010-06-18T16:17:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I'm not sure what to call home. Texarkana is home... that's where my parents live, Austin still feels like home, Louisville is home... that's where we actually live. Maybe all the confusion stems from the fact that this world is not my home period.

9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 11 Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. 12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. -I Peter 2:9-13

That being said, we just got back from a great trip to our Central Texas "home"! Thank you Nunnellys, Flores', Ruizs', McClungs, and Teutons for your great hospitality! We loved seeing every single one of you! We got to spend a Sunday at Austin Ridge Bible Church and catch up with so many friends there. Plus, I got to hang out with a few of my old co-workers... really friends is a better word. What a sweet time we had hanging out together the night before baby Chloe's birth!

Enough talk... here are some pictures. I didn't capture every moment of our trip. There's always people and moments I wish I'd got on camera. But, I did get some very sweet pictures.

Okay, so this was actually in our Tennessee home... Benjamin and Cousin Morgan in the wagon at Nana & Boompa's house.

Morgan is such a little nurturer! She spent most of her time in the wagon making sure Benjamin was okay. Sweet thing!

Benjamin & Daddy... what a happy boy! He's a sweet child as long as you're not trying to get him to take a nap. He loves to play!

Grant Nunnelly, Benjamin & Daddy go for a swim!

We had a great weekend with the Nunnellys and the Tippens! We started out as friends with no kiddos and now we're up to four!

Lt to Rt: Derek, Will, & Scott with Benjamin, Lucy Jane, Kyle, & Grant

...and the mommies! Kristen, Kaely, & Meredith with Kyle, Grant (peeking through), Lucy Jane & Benjamin

We also spent some time with the Ruizes. Stephanie, me and Benjamin in their back yard pool. Benjamin is still getting used to the water...

Miss Natalie & Miss Darienne give Benjamin his first haircut! He was not too happy about it, but it's at least out of his eyes now!

Stephanie and Benjamin with the Freeman kids... Zach & Kylie

Swimming with Cousin Ashton! Look at those beautiful teeth!

Mommy helping Benjamin down the slide!

Benjamin and Ashton... they were chasing bubbles which didn't really show up in the picture.

I love this picture! Papa Ray with Benjamin. My dad has always been great with babies, so he is making an awesome granddad. This is on the porch at Aunt Kathy & Uncle Robert's house.

Benjamin & Aunt Kathy (AK)

He loves to swing!

Just chillin' in the tire swing...

playing with Uncle Zach's (UZ) goatee...

More swimming... now he's really starting to love it! Momma, Benjamin, Aunt Brooke, & UZ

that kinda hurt...

He loves the water!

JuJu and Benjamin. What a sweet picture! My mom loves spending time with her grandson. I think she's making up some kind of story because that book has no words. :)

Benjamin and Cousin Carter! They were born just two weeks apart.

All the boys... Ashton, Benjamin & Carter

Our latest...

2010-05-12T14:12:00.001-04:00

For my first Mother's Day, "Benjamin" got me some plants. This one's for the house, and it only has to be watered once a month. That's good for me!

Daddy & Benjamin with my Wandering Jew plant. I've always thought that was a funny name to give a plant. Anyway, it's really pretty and also easy to maintain. I hung this plant right outside our front door so I can see it from the window.

This little basket I got from my Aunt Kathy a couple of years ago. This is the first time I've planted anything in it. That's Angelonia and a Sweet Potato Vine. I'm hoping the vine will grow and trail over the side of the basket. This one we hung where you see it as you come up our stairs.

Mommy & Benjamin goofing around. He really is funny, already making faces for the camera!

Another funny face. He really gets carried away when I get the camera out!

Such a big boy! Our furniture is a little tall for him to pull up on but he can do it. He'll stand there for a long time if you stand him up there first!

He loves books already. He'll sit and even let me read to him for a little bit at a time. His favorite book is Baby Einstein "Mirror Me", probably because I make lots of funny faces when I read that one to him!

Two Teeth & A Snack

2010-04-21T19:03:00.002-04:00

This picture was taken last Saturday. Poor little guy felt awful! You can see it in his eyes! Then...

On Sunday two new teeth showed up!!! I know you can't really see them in the picture, but they're there!

On another note, I have a new favorite snack. It's basically a spinach banana smoothie. I've seen this recipe several places and always felt like it was for the truly super nutritious people... like organic everything and nothing processed whatsoever... Well, for some reason today I decided to try it, and it's delicious. Not just "I'm going to drink this because it's good for me" delicious, but it's actually really good. And really good for you! I just put a frozen banana, two good handfuls of spinach, 1 cup of milk, and a little honey in a blender and this is what came out...

Looks kinda gross, but it was yummy.

Easter & Some Funny Faces!

2010-04-13T10:17:00.000-04:00

We spent Easter with Derek's family. That's one nice thing about being in Louisville... his family is only three hours away in Nashville! We drove down for church and lunch and then came back mid-afternoon. We had a great time celebrating the Resurrection with family!

Derek with Benjamin, Derek's mom, Betsy, with Cousin Luke & Cousin Morgan

Derek & Benjamin - almost 8 months old in this picture!

I got the camera out yesterday to take pictures of Benjamin in his big kid pajamas. You know, not the kind that button around a diaper. He is becoming such a little ham! I swear he was making faces just for the camera! I think he's figuring things out!

This face usually involves a funny noise coming out from between those lips!

"I'm so mad at you!"

Such a funny face!

And, finally, a little smile.

This one is just to show off the cute pajamas.

Seeds Family Worship

2010-04-07T10:14:00.000-04:00

My neighbor, Laura, introduced us to a great set of kids' worship albums. The songs are just scripture verses with references set to music. They're not cheesy, so even adults can enjoy listening! I've got Philippians 4:6-7 going through my mind almost constantly now. Even though Benjamin can't understand the songs yet, I think this is one way to hide God's Word in our hearts. I will take all the help I can get on that.

The website is http://www.seedsfamilyworship.net/, and you can listen to the first album online. When you order, you actually get two copies of the CD... one to keep and one to give away. I know I sound like an ad for this stuff, but it really is great!

Another Salsa

2010-03-01T15:07:00.001-05:00

I had to throw in a picture of Benjamin!

Okay, this is my first attempt at my own salsa recipe. I took ideas from a couple of other recipes, and I think it turned out pretty good!

Ingredients:

2 cloves of garlic

2 Serrano Chiles - or jalapenos if you want less heat

2 roasted Hatch green chiles

1 medium onion

about 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

Juice of 1 lime

1 large can of whole tomatoes - chopped were on sale, but the whole work better

salt to taste

Turn oven on to broil. Place onions, garlic, and serrano chiles on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and cook. Turn so that all sides are browned or blistered. Then, peel the garlic and place onions, garlic, serrano & Hatch chiles, cilantro, apple cider vinegar, and lime in a food processor. Puree until everything is coarsely chopped, but not smooth. (I'm not going for baby food here!) Then, add the can of tomatoes and puree again until everything is mixed, but not too smooth. Then, grab a chip and taste. Add salt or more lime juice to taste.

Note: I still have Hatch green chiles in my freezer from Central Market two years ago! We bought half a case of hot and half a case of mild, and they've lasted a long time. But, you could also use the jar green chiles or just leave them out. If you use the jar kind, they're already chopped. I probably used the equivalent of 2 tablespoons of chopped green chiles. If you live in Texas, the Hatch Chile Fest happens in August, and I'd plan on stocking up when you can get these chiles fresh. We add them to eggs, enchiladas, salsas... you name it!

Salsa Verde

2010-02-23T21:21:00.000-05:00

This recipe is from Cowgirl Cuisine by Paula Disbrowe. It is delicious, especially when the ingredients are warm and fresh from the oven!

Ingredients:

2 pounds tomatillos (about 14 medium), husked

1 large onion, coarsely chopped

2 to 4 garlic cloves

2 to 4 jalapenos

1/2 cup coarsely chopped cilantro

Juice of 1 large lime (about 2 Tbsp)

1 Tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp salt

3-4 Hatch green chiles

Rinse the tomatillos. Place tomatillos, onion, unpeeled garlic, jalapenos, and chiles (unless already roasted or from a jar) on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil and toss to coat. Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook, turning as necessary, until blistered on all sides. Remove from oven in batches, if necessary. Stem the peppers, peel the garlic, then transfer all ingredients to a food processor. Puree until smooth, taste, and season with salt and lime.

Lentil Sausage Soup

2010-02-20T11:12:00.000-05:00

My new favorite soup.

The picture doesn't really do it justice, but this soup is delicious. I used store-bought chicken broth because the idea of making my own just kind of scares me. Plus, it saves a lot of time! This makes a lot of soup, too. We've eaten this twice, and I still have another meals worth in the freezer! Okay, I'm starting to sound like a soup-nerd, but I just had to share.

God's Love & Winter Pictures

2010-02-10T11:29:00.001-05:00

I listened to a sermon yesterday that Noel Piper had posted on her blog by a pastor in Minneapolis named Rick Gamache. It really helped my thinking on God's love for me. I love God's grace. I love that I am justified by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. But, in my thinking, I've been missing the next step in God's grace and love for me. Pastor Gamache was preaching from Ephesians chapter 1:

"...he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love, he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved." v. 4-6

The thing that's so amazing is that God didn't stop at justifying us. He did more than declare us "not guilty", although that alone would have been glorious and undeserved. As Pastor Gamache put it:

When we were adopted, God the judge put down his gavel. God the judge stood up and he stepped away from bench and he took off his judicial garb. He came to us and took us in his arms and he said to us, “my child, from now on call me Father, and he rejoiced over us with loud singing.”

We are not only forgiven of our sins, but we are adopted by God. As believers in Jesus Christ, we were once enemies of God, but now he holds us in him arms and declares us to be his child. WOW! Seriously?!? "See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God." - 1 John 3:1 I love when God gives me a fresh and new understanding of something that's been under my nose all along. I'm praising God today for my adoption.

That's my thoughts for the day, now here's some sweet pictures of our winter in Louisville.

Benjamin is learning to sit up!

...more sitting up pictures

Oh, Dad!

Benjamin loves playing with his dad! Derek gets the biggest smiles out of him!

We have had a lot of snow lately! I'm told winters are not usually this white here in Louisville. This is the view from our back porch just yesterday. Derek and I measured 5 inches of snow at one point.

That's our car covered in snow!

Benjamin and I had to check out the snow flakes. I don't think he was too interested in them!

Alright, I hear him waking up from his morning nap. That's all for now!

Benjamin's First Snowman!

2010-02-02T16:59:00.000-05:00

The snow is about melted now, but I like it that way. It's pretty for a few days, and then I want it to go away! Benjamin didn't seem to think much of it. He wouldn't smile or look at the camera or anything. He did stare at the snowman which was pretty cute! I think he was mostly just cold and wondering why we were outside to begin with!

A picture worth a thousand words

2010-01-28T20:55:00.001-05:00

I don't know the story behind this picture, but I really wish I did. Praise God for everyone pulled alive from the rubble, and especially for one so small!

A story worth praising God over!

2010-01-26T18:06:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine in Austin, Lynn, sent me the link to a blog written by a missionary family in Haiti. I'm not sure, but I think her church may help support them. Their names are Tara & Troy Livesay, and they are in Port Au Prince. I've been reading their updates since the earthquake so I don't forget and so I know some things to pray for specifically. This is a story Tara posted today that is awesome! We've been praying for orphans to be reunited with family, and it is happening!! To God be the glory. Read on to find out more...

I wish we had more time to make note of every single story that we've been blessed to watch unfold. I am basically picking one in twenty to share ... and that is just us and our one clinic. I'd have to imagine there are a half a million stories to be told.

A couple days ago a little guy came in from Simone Pele. They picked him up and he seemed disoriented and no parent or guardian could be located. He needed treatment for wounds from the earthquake so they took the risk and brought him in without a guardian.

His wounds were treated and he went to recovery. In recovery he started seizing. He ended up seizing about twice a day for the next two days. We still had no idea if he had living parents or what his story was. The Docs speculated that he is a kid that has always had seizures.

There are two amazing Paramedics from New York City working with us. We found them by accident when Scott Salvant, a super-cool guy we know, found them in the D.R. as they were trying to get here to work. Their names are Christophe and Rhona and they are truly awesome at what they do. They have been riding the truck in and out of the slums picking up patients and they begin to work on them in the truck before they ever get to the clinic. Christophe was very troubled about our little mystery orphan boy. He took personal responsibility and brought him back into Simone Pele today and walked around asking everyone if they knew him.

It turns out he comes from an intact family. His mother and father had been looking for him since the earthquake. He is autistic and had run away during the earthquake.

He is now at home, reunited with his family and doing well.

That's how God rolls.

Homemade Marshmallows

2010-01-24T21:21:00.002-05:00

I've been wanting to try homemade marshmallows since Food Network Magazine came out with a recipe in December. I didn't think I had a candy thermometer, so I put the recipe away for a later day. Then, as we were moving, I came across a candy thermometer still in the packaging! How convenient! Here's the recipe I used. As a side note, I used Lyle's Golden Syrup rather than Corn Syrup. Lyle's is imported from Britain, and is a pure cane sugar syrup with a mild caramel flavor. The Pastry Queen says, "It has more flavor than corn syrup, which is cloyingly sweet but entirely lacking in character." If the Pastry Queen says it, it must be true!! Anyway, I could definitely taste the caramel flavor in my marshmallows.

Homemade Marshmallows
Makes: 40-50

3 packets (about 3 tablespoons) unflavored gelatin
1/2 cup cold water
1 -1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup water
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions:
Combine gelatin and 1/2 cup cold water in a medium sized heat-proof bowl. Let it sit for 20 minutes.
Combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt, and 1/3 cup of water in a small heavy saucepan. Stir over low heat until sugar has dissolved. Turn stove to high and heat until mixture comes to a very brisk boil, stirring occasionally. Let boil for about 2 minutes. If you have a candy thermometer, the temperature should reach about 240 degrees.

Take pan off heat and very carefully pour contents into the bowl containing gelatin. Add vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat mixture on high speed for at least 10 minutes. When the mixture becomes very thick and white and has at least doubled in size, it is done.

Butter a wooden spoon and scoop mixture into a 9×12 casserole dish that has been generously dusted with powdered sugar. Dust tops of marshmallows with powdered sugar as well. Let marshmallows sit at room temperature, uncovered, for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Don’t panic if they look incredibly sticky at first. They will thicken up as they cool. Cut into squares. They’ll still feel quite sticky as you cut them, but cut them as cleanly as possible with a wet knife. Then dust cut edges with additional powdered sugar, and they will feel like ‘real’ marshmallows.

They were pretty yummy on their own, but also good in a cup of hot chocolate!

This picture has nothing to do with marshmallows, but is good for a laugh. This is Benjamin in his exersaucer. See all those fun toys he's surrounded by? Notice what he's actually playing with?? He's just as happy playing with the labels on the toy as the actual toy itself! I've learned when we take him out, we don't need to bring baby toys. Just give him a straw or even a straw wrapper for that matter, and he's just as happy!

Praying for Orphans

2010-01-21T16:07:00.001-05:00

What I know is, we serve a God who is very interested in the orphans of this world. James 1:27 says, "Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world." As hard as this picture is for me to look at, God cares for these babies infinitely more than I ever could. I do just want to scoop one of them up and hold him close and tell him it's all going to be okay.

I also know this is not a situation to rush. There is an outpouring of interest in America to begin adopting these babies NOW! But, many of them may still have family out there! A mom or dad or an aunt... I'm praying that God would reunite every one of the children with living family members that exist. Then, I'm praying for these orphans to have someone today to hold them and tell them they're special and reassure and love them. After that, I pray for permanent homes for these orphans. I pray for families to open their lives and homes to the orphans of the world.

I heard somewhere recently that if every church in America had just one family who would adopt a child out of our foster care system, there would be no more need for foster care! Derek and I are very interested in adoption. We don't know when or how... maybe we'll adopt from Haiti and maybe that will happen sooner rather than later. We're not making any rash, emotional decisions, and I don't think anyone else should either. We are praying, and I guess that's what this post is about. We can all at least do that!

A Tour of our KY Home!

2010-01-18T15:45:00.000-05:00

Since most of our friends and family live in far away places relative to KY, I thought I'd give you a tour of our home via our blog! We've been here for 10 days now, and the place is starting to feel like home. If you were here, I'd invite you in and offer you something to drink. Probably I'd offer hot tea or hot chocolate because it's pretty chilly outside! Okay, that was cheesy, but welcome to our home!

First, the living room/office...

Here's the kitchen...

And the baby's room...

And our room...

There's plenty of space for an air mattress if anyone want to come for a visit! There's supposed to be a great fireworks display before the Kentucky Derby (maybe in April?). But, any excuse for our friends & family to come and visit us will do.

Snack Time

2010-01-16T19:24:00.000-05:00

A Little Snack from Derek Hall on Vimeo.

Praying and Continuing On In Faith

2010-01-15T00:54:00.000-05:00

It's 12:17 am here in Louisville. For some reason I can't sleep tonight. I've read some, and I've been on my knees praying for the people of Haiti. They are weighing heavy on my heart right now. I just read that teams carrying medical supplies are having a hard time landing because of limited space to land and the number of planes trying to land to provide relief. I'm praying specifically for God to get those planes in and out fast, for medical workers, for needed supplies, for relief from pain, for comfort. I pray the gospel would go forth in Port-Au-Prince.

A local church is sending supplies to Haiti, so I've gathered a few things from around the house. It amazed me how many things on the list we had just laying around! Candles, baby formula, towels, gauze, flour, tylenol, ibuprofen, bottles, clothes... It's all sitting on my kitchen table, waiting to be boxed up and sent. I pray these things are useful to them and not just making me feel good about being able to do something!

I thank God for all the earthquakes He has stopped from happening, and I pray he would use this one he has allowed for good.

In other news, we've been in Louisville just under a week now. We arrived on the coldest day I've experienced all winter!! There was snow and ice on the ground, but God got us here safely. The men got the truck unloaded while the women started unpacking boxes. It was pretty overwhelming at first. I'd never seen the place before, so I was trying to take in my new home, direct furniture placement, and take care of Benjamin without having a meltdown!

So far, I've figured out how to get to Target, Wal-Mart, Whole Foods, and Babies 'R Us. I mean, what more does a girl need. We've gone for a run around our neighborhood and determined the sidewalks are not the best for stroller running! We've got the place all put together - pictures on the wall and all! This will be our 5th move in three and a half years, so I guess experience pays off!

We are living in a house built in the 1920's. The first floor is a business, but the other floors and surrounding structures have been converted into apartments. It's almost like dorm-life, only we're all married and have husbands in seminary. Two of the families have small children and stay at home moms, so I've got someone close by if I need to chat!

We are praying for Derek's job interview on Saturday, and trusting God to provide for our needs. It's been awesome to see Him provide every step of the way on our journey these past few months. My faith has grown, but there have also been moments of freaking out!

One verse that has brought me great comfort these past few weeks is 1 John 2:15-17

"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world - the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes, and pride in possessions - is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever."

So, we continue on in faith!

Benjamin Discovers Cooking Utensils

2010-01-13T21:32:00.001-05:00

"Mmmm... this is a tasty shiny thing! I need to slobber all over it!"

"Is this okay?"

"Oh, I just can't resist."

"Oops! How did that happen?"

Some Christmas Pictures & A Little Reflecting

2010-01-06T22:44:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe fall has come and gone. We leave Friday for Louisville. I'm feeling a little sad tonight. This is our last week with my parents, tonight was our last first Wednesday supper and singing with my old church; Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas have all come and gone. It has been a wonderful first fall with Benjamin. I've absolutely loved living with my parents and sharing this time in Benjamin's life with them. I'm feeling a little mean for taking him away from Ju Ju and Papa Ray! Even Derek is feeling sad tonight, and I'm usually the emotional one!

Benjamin has changed so much since we moved to Texarkana in October. He's sleeping through the night (sometimes), he's rolling over like crazy, he's putting everything in his mouth! I think he's going to be a thumb-sucker. He won't suck on a pacifier, but he'll certainly chew one up. Sucking is reserved for fingers and bibs, which he must wear to avoid several drool-related outfit changes! He loves his Johnny Jump Up, and smiles at everyone. He's quite a little charmer.

Right now he's fighting sleep, but Derek is rocking him. Derek's going to miss all the time he's had with him lately. We're trying hard to have me stay at home. So along with school, Derek will also be working to support us. We're looking at it as this being a better time for seminary than when we have more than one!

I keep coming back to the fact the Christ is worth it. That has to keep going through my mind, or I'll just go crazy! I've been reading in John, and the words of Christ, "Let not your heart be troubled" have been so sweet to me this week. He was speaking these words to the disciples regarding His nearing departure from them. Christ goes with us on our departure, but these words still hold a lot of meaning and comfort for me.

Here are some pictures from Benjamin's first Christmas:

Me & D

Uncle Zach, Aunt Brooke, Papa Ray, Ju Ju, Uncle Will, Aunt Amanda, Mom & Dad

Aunt Amanda, the Baby Whisperer. Seriously, I can't even get him to fall asleep on my shoulder!

Amanda & Will

Brooke & Zach showing off his new Toms

Cousin Shelley and Benjamin

Cousin Casey & Benjamin

Nielson, Aunt Brooke and Benjamin... he loves dogs!

Thanks for the great photos, Uncle Zach!!

For to us a child is born...

2009-12-24T09:10:00.000-05:00

For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon
his shoulder,
and his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty
God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of
Peace.

Of the increase of his government
and of peace
there will be no end,
on the throne of David and over his
kingdom,
to establish it and to uphold it
with justice and with rightousness
from this time forth and
forevermore.
The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do
this.

Visions of sugar plums danced in our heads...

2009-12-14T22:26:00.001-05:00

My favorite Christmas candy is a homemade chocolate covered cherry. This is my Aunt Becky's recipe, and it is good! I've got a batch waiting in the freezer for the festivities to begin! Merry Christmas!!

bath time!

2009-12-11T19:19:00.000-05:00

Here's a short video of Benjamin's bath time. Don't worry. It's G-rated. I was going to post another short video, but it took HOURS for this one to post. Maybe I'm doing something wrong? Anyway, he is getting such a cute personality, and he seems to enjoy his baths. They are one of the highlights of our day!

What I would do with more time in the day...

2009-12-03T16:20:00.000-05:00

1. work out everyday
2. blog everyday
3. call a friend everyday (more time + more cell phone minutes)
4. do more projects... scrapbook more, maybe paint some furniture...

I know I have friends who think I've fallen off the face of the earth since having a baby. For the record, I haven't. But, being a mom is hard!! Benjamin is a sweet baby, but not usually an easy one. (Is there such a thing?) There are days he only takes one nap, and then prefers to be held most of the rest of the day. It's hard to do much of anything while holding a baby other than hold the baby. I'm not really even good at talking on the phone and doing it. He's VERY wiggly.

I'm not super mom. Most days, I'm doing good just to take care of Benjamin. I think it will get easier. A day is coming when he will walk and not want to be held as much. So, while he loves being held I'm just going to enjoy it. My dear friends out there, know that I still love you. But right now being a wife and a mommy are my priority. If you don't hear much from me just know I'm still thinking of you and praying for you. One day, my sweet little boy will be all grown up (sniff, sniff)... for now he's my little bundle who loves being held and takes most of my attention. And that's simply lovely.

Old Furniture... New Life

2009-11-10T17:17:00.001-05:00

My mother-in-law gave this furniture to us. It originally belonged to Derek's great-grandmother. When we got it the fabric was a mint-green color and looking pretty worn. My dad used to work with a guy who is amazing at recovering old furniture. He works with inmates at a nearby prison, teaching them how to do this so they will have a craft once they're out. He actually does the work for free because the prison system pays his salary! He did an absolutely beautiful job with this loveseat, and now he's working on a matching chair. Now, I'm on the hunt for more old furniture I can get recovered for free. Check it out:

Thank heaven for little boys...

2009-11-10T16:52:00.000-05:00

Here's a little picture update of our sweet baby boy. Enjoy!

I just love this picture.. he looks so mischevious!!

One of his favorite things... getting his hair dried. Lately, bath time has been going much better. He doesn't even mind getting his hair wet anymore, but it's still fun to dry all that hair!

My mom and Benjamin. We are having a lot of fun sharing these months with my parents. And they love having Benjamin around!

Benjamin's first Halloween... apparently he wanted to be Superman, and I dressed him as a pea pod instead. Next year... Superman.

He looks like he's taking his first Halloween very seriously!

He has daily conversations with this horse from his bouncy seat.

Sometimes you need two sets of hands. Laundry needed doing, but the baby also needed carrying. This was the compromise.

Benjamin's first garage sale. The customers loved him!

Priorities... Gospel First

2009-11-06T11:08:00.000-05:00

Thought out over several nap times... now I really need a shower...

I believe the most important thing in my life should be the gospel. So, I've been trying to figure out what that looks like in everyday life. I've been praying that God would help me understand this better. Then, yesterday, I was reading in Titus 2 and found some verses that helped me. I'm blogging about it because doing so helps me get it straight in my mind, but also because maybe it will help someone else out there. Note that I'm using the ESV Study Bible, and many of these thoughts come from the commentary contained within.

In Titus 2:1, Paul states that we are to teach what accords with sound doctrine. He goes on to describe the type of living that corresponds with the gospel and affirms rather than denies our claim to know God. Gospel living keeps Christians from providing any legitimate grounds for the Word of God to be reviled (v. 5). This kind of living adorns the gospel (v. 10). I love the picture of us adorning the gospel, highlighting the attractiveness of it! It also proves the gospel, because we are powerless to live godly lives apart from the work of Christ in our hearts.

Paul describes older men as that of Christian dignity and a sound, vibrant faith. Older women should have a reverent freedom in Christ and should train younger women to be godly wives and mothers. The Greek word for train means "to give instruction in wise behavior and good judgement".

Younger women are to love their husbands and children, submit to their husbands, be self-controlled, pure, working at home, and kind. This doesn't leave out single younger women! You may not have a husband or children, but there is still good instruction here! In general, women love to tend to the home... decorating to create an environment of warmth and welcomness. You don't have to be married to invite people over for a meal and show love and hospitality.

Even before I got married, I loved having people into my home. My roommate, Melissa, was a fabulous cook, and she was especially good at serving large numbers of people. (still is, I'm sure!)I was usually in charge of bread and dessert (my favorite!). We would have the "20-Somethings" over for games or to watch football or for dinner. Or the interns from Sky Ranch would come over for a rare home-cooked meal. There were so many opportunities to love on people and to be "busy at home" even with having to work outside the home, as well.

Younger men are to be self-controlled, teaching in a way that shows integrity and sound knowledge. And, the chapter goes on to even describe the behavior of Christian slaves. This doesn't justify slavery. "What Jesus endorses is the kind of inner freedom and love that is willing to go the extra mile in service, even when the demand is unjust." (from Recovering Biblical Manhood & Womanhood)

Then, verses 11-14 tie it all together:

"For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our 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 lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works."

So, I look for ways to serve and love my husband and submit to his authority not because God will love me more. I do it because God first loved me and died for me. I take Benjamin on walks and enjoy talking to him not just because it's good for my health and his development. I do it because God has given me freedom in Christ to enjoy doing these things. I stop and let my heart rate drop a little when the elderly woman wants to look at the baby not just because it's the kind thing to do. I do it because it will bless her and remind me of how good God is to send His Son to die for me and then on top of that to give me a son.

So, I'm challenging myself to continue thinking this way... to look for the gospel in everyday life. It doesn't make God love me more when I do good things. But I should be zealous for good works because Jesus gave Himself to redeem me and because of the hope I have in waiting for his glorious appearing.

Hall Family Update

2009-11-03T17:32:00.000-05:00

We've been in Texarkana for a little over two weeks now. Derek has been substitute teaching some and starts a job with Lifeway in December. He is staying busy running errands... getting the car inspected, rotating tires, doing paperwork for seminary, and getting things out of storage that we realize we need. The last trip he took, he found bleach had spilled over our end table. He ruined a sweatshirt wiping it up. I cried when he told me because I started to worry that all of our things would be broken or stained by the time they're finally moved out of storage and onto Louisville. Derek assures me they won't be, and anyway it's all just stuff. It's not eternal.

I've stayed busy taking care of Benjamin. When he naps, I usually read or blog or clean or attempt to keep up with friends or workout (7# to go to get back to my pre-pregnant weight). Benjamin is almost three months old now! He is a really sweet baby, especially now that his reflux is under control. Prilosec is doing the trick (thank you, Lord!). He is starting to love to play. His new favorite thing is 'air-plane'. That never fails to bring out the smiles. He loves to be held and talked to. He sucks on his fist like it's candy. He loves to have his hair dried after bath time. He hates being dressed as a pea pod. (I'm still going to post pictures, though.)

Benjamin loves his Gramma and Granddad, and they love that he is living with them right now. My mom has started getting ready for bed early so she can spend the rest of the night holding him! He sleeps great at night, but that's because he sleeps right next to me. He'll fall asleep nursing, wake up for a diaper change, then fall back asleep nursing on the other side. That's our routine. I'm fine with it for now, because that way I get some good sleep, too!

I'm feeling very blessed these days. My parents have welcomed us with open arms. I have a husband who loves me well and seeks to love me even better. We have a beautiful son who is totally a gift from God. We are looking forward to this adventure in Louisville. The Lord has provided for us in many ways through some very generous friends back in Austin. We even made $700 at a garage sale the weekend after moving! I've never heard of anyone making that much at a garage sale!

It is sort of a scary time for us, too. Our house in Austin has not rented yet. Derek doesn't have a job in Louisville yet. We aren't sure where we'll be living once in Louisville yet. Yet! Somehow those things are not freaking me out. God has shown us that this is His plan and not ours. We are walking in obedience, and I have faith that God will provide all we need.

The Joy of Homemaking

2009-10-28T11:52:00.000-04:00

I love being a stay at home mom. I see it as a high calling and a blessing to be able to stay home. I'm excited about my marriage and the chance to welcome Derek home everyday. I'm excited about the days and years ahead raising Benjamin and any other children God chooses to bless us with. I'm excited about the freedom it brings to cultivate our home to be a place that people are welcomed, loved, and pointed to Christ. I think this is the best job I've ever had, and I want to do it well.

I've been challenged and inspired by several people in this new adventure called homemaking. I want to share some of that here. This is a quote from one of my favorite pastors. He has helped me to see just how much value there is in this new job of mine.

A challenge from John Piper:

"That you not assume that secular employment is a greater challenge or a better use of your life than the countless opportunities of service and witness in the home, the neighborhood, the community, the church, and the world; that you not only pose the question: career or full-time homemaker?, but that you ask just as seriously: full-time career or freedom for ministry? That you ask: Which would be greater for the Kingdom - to work for someone who tells you what to do to make his or her business prosper, or to be God's free agent dreaming your own dream about how your time and your home and your creativity could make God's business prosper? And that in all this you make your choices not on the basis of secular trends or upward lifestyle expectations, but on the basis of what will strengthen the faith of the family and advance the cause of Christ."

I think that's enough food for thought for one day.

More pictures...

2009-09-30T21:47:00.001-04:00

We will be without internet for a little while, so posting will be sporadic. I just wanted to post a few more pictures before taking a break for the move and all.

My brother took this picture our first day at home. I just think it's really sweet.

Sweet baby!

We met our friends, Will and Kaely, in Fredericksburg this weekend...

... and ate chocolate buttercream cake at the Rather Sweet Bakery. YUM!

getting a lift from dad

We figured out he doesn't like having his hair washed. Baths go great until his head gets wet! With all that hair, I think it must make him really cold. Last night, we blow dried his hair for him. That he liked!

Changes and a Big Weekend

2009-09-17T20:44:00.000-04:00

I don't have much to say today but did want to post some new pictures. Somehow my week feels more complete if I've updated this blog at least once! We've started spreading the word that we're moving to Louisville, KY. Derek is going back to school! He'll be getting his Masters of Divinity degree from Southern Seminary. We're really sad to be leaving such great friends in Austin, but we're also very excited to see how God provides for us and changes us through this. I'll have more to say on that later. For now, here's some fun pics...

Me, Ben and Charlie... doing what we all do best.

Derek and Benjamin... the two most handsome men. Man, I love that kids hair!!

Our first Sunday at church! It only took me like three hours to get us ready, but we made it!!

Yea for weather that's almost cold enough for footy pajamas!

Benjamin's first party!! We spent Saturday watching football at Jim and Natalie's place. Here's Matt, Natalie, Benjamin and June. Benjamin spent most of the afternoon asleep in Nat's arms. So sweet!

Benjamin made his first little friend! Judah Pulley is exactly one month older. Aren't they adorable!!

Our little family

Not in vain...

2009-09-10T21:23:00.001-04:00

I keep telling people that nothing would have prepared me for how much I love our little Benjamin or for how very hard this would all be. Derek and I have been really excited the past couple of days to get almost four straight hours of sleep! The lack of sleep is tough! It has brought out the best and the worst in both of us! We are loving being parents, though. We are so grateful God has chosen us to be Benjamin's mom and dad.

I've been working on a Bible study during some of Benjamin's naps. It is about being a mom, and there are some great scripture verses I've been learning about. One is Genesis 1:28... God commands us to be fruitful and multiply. A great reminder that what I'm doing is by God's design and even a command. Nice to remember there's more to this than just feeding a baby and feeling sleepy all the time!

Another verse I've read is 1 Corinthians 15:58. "In the Lord, our labor is not in vain." So, being a mom is a job God has called me to, and in the Lord this work will not be in vain! What other job has such lasting results... for good or for bad! We're praying that raising our children will be for good and believing it will be.

Here are a few new pictures from the past couple of weeks...

My parents were here this past weekend. We spent Saturday watching college football. Benjamin even dressed for the occasion. Derek is convinced that Ben will be a Tennessee fan... I'm still betting on A&M.

We're getting better at the bath thing. His first few did not go well! We were trying to do this in the tub, and I think he was just getting too cold. The kitchen sink works much better, but it does take two sets of hands! He's actually starting to like bath time!

I swear we weren't pinching him. Sometimes he just likes to fuss! Pass him to mom, though, and all is well... as long as I'm nursing him. That is his absolute favorite thing to do!!

I love this picture!! Sleeping soundly on dad's chest... another favorite of Ben's.

me and ben

One Week!

2009-08-21T21:10:00.001-04:00

Benjamin is one week old today! Man, it goes by fast. We have had a great week. Derek and I are loving being mommy and daddy. I could just sit and stare at him... he's such a miracle. My days are spent feeding the baby, sleeping, and eating. That's about all I do on a regular basis. I'm loving having this moment right now to update the blog. I'm pretty sure either my mom or Derek is about to tell me I need to go take a shower so I'm ready to go to bed the next time Benjamin eats. They are making sure I'm taken care of.

My mom has been awesome this week. She has taken care of me so I can take of Benjamin. She's brought me drinks while I'm nursing him, vacuumed the floor, cleaned our bathroom, given the dog a bath, taken the dog for walks, kept the kitchen clean, cooked some meals for us, labeled garage sale items for me... I would be going crazy without her.

Derek is an awesome dad. Last night he sat up rocking Benjamin for over an hour when he didn't want to sleep, changed countless diapers, read from the Bible while I fed Benjamin, given me lots of hugs when my hormones take over and the tears poor out... He's really great with the little guy. I'm so blessed to have such an amazing husband who loves me and our son very well.

Here are a few of my favorite pictures from our first week at home...

My men.

Such a sweet baby!

Sound asleep after a good feeding... limp as a noodle.

me & Ben

I just want to pinch his little cheeks!

A good friend of ours, Lindy Willis, is a photographer. We had her take these back in July. I just thought they'd be fun to post... you know before and after shots.

Benjamin Hughes Hall

2009-08-15T16:32:00.001-04:00

After 18 hours of labor, Benjamin Hughes entered the world on August 14, 2009. Everything went so well... such an answer to prayer! I started feeling contractions on Thursday morning. They were short and nothing worth paying too much attention to until about 10 pm. I think that's when labor actually started. I took a benadryl and tried to sleep, but the contractions were just too painful at that point. Still too short to do anything much about, but enough to keep me awake!

I was really frustrated by Friday morning, thinking that things weren't progressing and not really knowing what to do. My doctor said to come into the office and get checked. To my surprise, I was already dilated to 5 cm and my water broke in the office! They took me straight over to the hospital.

The nurses told me, most women would hate me if they could see my at 5 cm. I was still laughing, whereas most are screaming in pain. We got all checked in, and Derek and I just hung out for the next few hours. I sat on the birthing ball and he would rub my back anytime a contraction would come. By 7 centimeters, I was definitely starting to feel a lot more uncomfortable. I had an IV combination of Stadol and Phenergan. That totally knocked me out within about 5 minutes.

I slept pretty soundly from 7 to about 9 centimeters. I feel like that is only possible because I prayed for the decision to get an epidural to be an easy one. By the time I woke up good, it was already time to push. No sense in getting the epidural at that point! I will say that pushing a baby out is the hardest thing I have ever physically done. But, it was an amazing experience.

Derek got to announce that he is a boy! We were both surprised at a boy... for some reason we really thought girl. I have to say, though, that I couldn't be happier. Of course we had a boy. Somehow it just seems right.

I had no idea how amazing it is to have a child. I just have such an overwhelming love for him. His little cry absolutely breaks my heart... I just want to cry with him! Though so far he hasn't cried much. He's been very sleepy today, but I have a feeling that won't last long.

So here we sit. Benjamin is sleeping soundly in my lap while I type this. I can hardly take my eyes off him! Derek and I feel so blessed by this gift from God. I know I'm hormonal, but I could just sit and cry buckets of tears of gratitude for this life that has been entrusted to us. Our prayer is that we would be able to give him a vision of the glory of God and that he would point others to Christ.

Here's a few pictures...

Practice...

2009-08-13T07:02:00.001-04:00

There are moments that I think I will go crazy if I try to read one more thing about pregnancy and babies. Really, people have been doing this since the beginning of time... and mostly without the help of Dr. Sears or The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding... I'm telling myself that it's all going to be okay. We'll figure this out. We don't have to be perfect.

I'm feeling less overwhelmed about all the baby "essentials". The list really has gotten ridiculously long. Pac 'n plays, bouncy seats, carriers, swaddling blankets, snap 'n go's, exersaucers, strollers & car seats to be used once they grow out of the infant ones, jogging strollers, play gyms, high chairs, cribs... I admit, most of this we do have. Oh, and one more thing. A Moby wrap. This I'm pretty excited about.

It's one very long piece of fabric that comes with instructions on how to wrap a baby to carry them around. It' s a little intimidating, so I practiced on my dog. You know, better to drop him than the baby. (just kidding... I was very careful not to drop him) Anyway, he loved it. We're definitely going to have some jealousy issues once the baby comes. Here's a picture of me with Charlie in the Moby wrap. A little hard to get on with my belly and all, but still effective.

Baby Moon

2009-08-06T19:43:00.000-04:00

11 days until my due date! Things are progressing toward this baby coming. I'm dilated 1 centimeter and 75% effaced. The doctor has been running some extra tests because the baby is a little small. So far, everything has come back perfectly fine. Derek and I were both around 7 lbs 5 oz, so I think we just grow them small! Last measure the baby was weighing 6 lbs 1 oz... 20th percentile. Seems to me like having a baby on the small side could have it's advantages!

Last week, Derek and I went on a little vacation down to San Antonio. We stayed at a Hyatt resort, spent a lot of time by the pool, went to the River Walk and the Japanese Tea Gardens. Here are some pictures from our "babymoon". We really had a great time relaxing and just enjoying each other before our two becomes three!

Japanese Tea Gardens:

Here I am at 37 weeks. I'm definitely starting to feel pretty heavy and uncomfortable!

Pool Time!

Derek... gotta love $3 push pops!

Collage of Shower Pictures

2009-08-01T10:02:00.000-04:00

Time is getting close to welcome baby Hall! My due date is 18 days away. It's hard to believe we're so close! I have to admit, though, that December feels like a LONG time ago at this point. That's when we first found out I was pregnant!

We have been so blessed by three more baby showers! Here are just a few pictures from those. Some from a shower in Austin that was mostly church friends and family, some from a shower the ladies I work with threw, and some from a shower in Texarkana.

Austin Baby Shower - Shaunna & me

Winnie the Pooh!

Austin... cupcakes from Hey Cupcake! Yum.

Work Shower: Elaine, Laura, me, Louise, Lynn, Debi, Ronnah, Carolyn, Mary, Jenn & Jessica
(Such sweet women! They threw an awesome shower for me and Baby Hall. Plus, what a treat to spend work hours eating cake and opening gifts!)

Cutting the cake... it was really yummy with raspberry filling

Austin Baby Shower: hostesses + mom
Stacy, Kaely, mom, me, Natalie, and Kristen
Another fabulous shower! We really are so blessed to have such amazing friends. This baby will definitely not lack being loved!

Derek came to help load gifts.

Texarkana Baby Shower!
Derek's family was able to come for this one. His Aunt Judy, mom, and grandmother are to my left. A couple of sweet women from my parent's church threw this shower for me in June. It was a great time of catching up with old friends and spending time with family.

mom & me

Nursery

2009-08-01T09:55:00.001-04:00

The nursery is done! We went with greens and browns. I think this will work well, whether we have ourselves a little boy or a girl! We bought a few new things, refinished and repurposed some old things, bought some things second-hand... It's all come together very nicely! I love just sitting and rocking and looking around at everything. I suppose I have the nesting bug pretty bad!

The crib before mattress and bedding.

Just beginning to sort things out...

All put together now... Derek's mom and aunt made the bed skirt and the bumper pads. They turned out great!

Our second-hand changing table and my Pottery Barn chalk & pin boards. Derek was making just a little bit of fun that I had to have the Pottery Barn ones! They're just so stinkin' perfect, though!

We're hoping this baby loves to read since we both do. The armoire we bought used and Derek repainted it. I added the Anthropologie knobs... I could go crazy with Anthropologie knobs. I really have to restrain myself!

Derek deserves some relaxing after all his hard work putting this room together. He really did the grunt work. I just did the fun parts! The rocking chair is SOOOO comfortable! My parents, grandmother and aunts/uncles went together to buy this for us.

So that's the tour!

Answered Prayer, a Surprise Shower & 30 weeks...

2009-06-07T18:56:00.000-04:00

Probably the most excited thing I have to report is an answer to prayer. At my 24 week ultrasound, we'd been told I'd probably have to have a c-section because of the position of the placenta. (gross word, I know) We started praying that God would move it! All it had to move was 1 centimeter. I mean, faith like a mustard seed can move a mountain, right? Well, at 28 weeks, it was so far out of the way, the doctor didn't even bother to tell us how much it had moved. It had become a non-issue. Praise God!!

Below is a picture of me taken today! It doesn't get more current than this. (at least for June 7) I'll be 30 weeks on Tuesday. I've started going for check-ups every other week, and we started our birthing class this last week. Very interesting! Life really is a miracle. Did you know that there are valves in a baby's heart that close and others that open when it takes it's first breath? Tell me how in the world that could have "evolved".

About a month ago, Derek and I took a trip to Texarkana and stopped in Tyler along the way. I spent the evening with my old co-workers from Mother Frances Hospital. Actually, co-workers is a really lame word for these ladies. They are dear friends and greatly missed by yours truly. I knew I was going to eat dinner with them, but when I walked in they had actually set up a surprise baby shower for me... cake, presents, green chili stew and all! We had a great night together. Below are some pictures from my first baby shower!

me & Joy

Deby's got some cake skills... how cute are the marshmallow booties!

lt to rt: Tami, Lauren, Joy, me, Jennifer, Deby, & Steph

Tami, me & Stephanie

Five Months...

2009-04-18T16:03:00.000-04:00

I think I'm officially looking pregnant now. Which is nice since I haven't fit into any of my usual pants for weeks! I've felt like I should clarify - I'm not just gaining weight! Although, I have developed a sweet tooth that I have almost no control over! Maybe I'll get so burned out on sweets while I'm pregnant that later they'll just disgust me! Probably not, though.

Here are a few pictures of me at 5 months... no big deal for people who see me everyday, but I thought out of town family might enjoy them!

These are a couple of girls from our church taken at Sheryl's baby shower (the one on the left). Sheryl is due in June, I'm in August, and Kristen (on the right) is due in July.

Baby Hall

2009-02-03T21:15:00.000-05:00

Up until yesterday, I thought if you'd seen one sonogram picture, you'd seen them all. But there's something completely different about looking at your own baby! I'm 12 weeks pregnant now, but there's still not much outward evidence of that. All my clothes still fit (which is a good thing) and I haven't really gained any weight (yet!)... I can tell something's not normal, and I'll spare the details here. But seeing that baby on the screen yesterday with arms and legs and a nose and a heart just fluttering away... WOW! It is amazing how much has been going on these past 12 weeks!

It's moving around in there, scratching it's face, and kicking it's legs. Derek was pretty excited about how much it was moving around. See, Derek is a fidgeter. (If that's even a word.) He took all the movement as evidence that this child was definitely his!

I'm still a little overwhelmed by the whole experience. We just feel blessed! So here's a few of the pictures. It's now the size of a lime, and the baby e-mail I get tells me it will soon start opening and closing its fingers.

Full body... legs and all. You can even see the umbilical cord!

It's legs are curled up and you're looking down at the top of it's head.

A profile shot... I know it's precious!

China

2008-11-21T18:31:00.000-05:00

Where to begin... I love China. I also love Africa, though. Maybe it's just the chance to get out of my little world in the U.S.A. I'm fascinated by other cultures and languages. I love seeing how people live on the other side of the world. I could probably write pages on my experience in China, but few would read it. So, I'll just share lots of pictures. Enjoy!

This was one of our last lunches in China. We spent time praying for the wives who are living and serving in China. It was a beautiful time and meant a lot to these women.

The best thing we did in China was spend time encouraging and loving on a family our church supports. They've been there 7 years, and we were the first group of people to come and visit them.

Casey & Mandi

Boston & Hudson

Millie, Emma, and Matt (our Outreach pastor)

dinner at Casey and Mandi's apartment

Yes, that's right. I'm eating rice with chopsticks... I know, you're impressed.

(Just don't pay any attention to how messy the table is around my bowl.)

Jelyn, Menu, and Jamie... Menu (said with the accent on the u) was a woman we met at Saturday morning soccer. She lives in China because of her husband's job. She is originally from India, but had actually lived in Austin for a little while. (How crazy is that! small world... )

This woman is a nun at Wenshu Monastery, a Buddhist temple in China. A small group of us spent time walking through the temple and praying for the One True God to reveal Himself to these worshippers of Buddha.

Food offered to idols. We were told that eating these apples offered to Buddha would bring luck. These are a couple of girls of one of the families we spent time with. You can tell they are not too excited about this "privilege".

outside the temple... this man had fought with Americans in one of the wars. Some of what he said I lost in translation.

A sampling of the food we ate. The food was spicy and delicious. All family style.

Us with "The Cube". This was where Michael Phelps set all his records.

"The Bird's Nest"

We spent one afternoon with a separate ministry our church supports. I'll leave out names. Matt had just given them a pretty good sized check that they weren't expecting! I could say a lot about this afternoon, but this is not the place. I will say that the time spent talking with these Chinese believers was one of the highlights of our trip. They have counted the cost and are passionate followers of Jesus Christ.

I think this says it all...

the Forbidden City

Tiananmen Square

one more inside the Forbidden City

It's all just stuff

2008-10-24T09:42:00.000-04:00

Have you ever felt like God shows you something in your life and no matter what you do He won't let you forget about it? I have felt that way for about the past two months in regards to giving and the poor and needy. There is a haunting in my heart that I need to be doing more for the poor and desolate of this world. The problem is I live in America where it is so easy for me to forget about those in need, or I can just change the channel when "those" commercials come on. But God, in His grace, is refusing to let me forget it. Yesterday I was listening to a sermon by Dr. David Platt, I would highly recommend it, you can find it on iTunes. In it he talked about the amount of Scripture God devotes to talking about the poor. Here are just a sampling of ones he highlighted and some others I have found:

Duet. 15:7-14 "You shall not shut your hand against your poor brother, but you shall open your hand to him...Therefore I command you, "You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor in your land."

1 Sam. 2:8 "He raises up the poor from the dust; he lifts the needy from the ash heap."

Prov. 14:21 "Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor."

Ps. 112:9 "He has distributed freely; he has given to the poor."

Prov. 21:13 "Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself cry out and not be answered."

Is. 61:1 "...to bring good news to the poor."

Ez. 16:49 what was the great sin of Sodom? "she had pride, excess of food, and prosperous ease, but did not aid the poor and needy."

Luke 4:16 Jesus came to earth, "to proclaim good news to the poor."

Luke 16:19-31 the rich man is sent to Hell because he refused to care for the poor (he was sent to hell because he didn't trust in Christ, which is evidenced by the fact that he didn't care for the poor)

Matt. 25:31-46 the parable of the sheep and the goats. Jesus knows those who are his by their reaction to and giving to the poor. Those who turn a blind eye and do not give are not followers of Christ and are sent to eternal punishment.

I could go on and on with verses of Scripture about God's call to us for the poor. I think the passage that haunts me the most is Matt. 25. I look at my life and wonder what God would think of all my stuff. I am secure in the fact of my salvation. I know I don't earn his favor and forgiveness by doing things, but the evidence of that salvation must be apparent. I am praying more and more for God to take my love of things away. That he would continue to awaken in me a deep longing to give to the poor and needy. Because all my stuff is not worth comparing to Christ.

Radical Womanhood

2008-10-13T20:27:00.001-04:00

I don't usually recommend a book before reading it, but this is an exception. God has been waking me up to how far our culture has shifted from biblical womanhood and biblical manhood. Roles have been redefined and values have changed. Some of these changes are for the better. I'm really thankful I can vote, for example. However, other changes have actually gone against what God says in His Holy Word.

I can feel comfortable recommending this book because of the men and women who have reviewed it and recommended it. C.J. and Carolyn Mahaney, Wayne Grudem, Nancy Leigh DeMoss, Bruce and Jodi Ware... They may not be names familiar to all, but they are men and women of God whose opinions I've come to trust.

The book is called Radical Womanhood: Feminine Faith in a Feminist World, and it's written by Carolyn McCulley. I think the title explains a lot, but I've posted a link to the book's website. On it, there's a video of Carolyn explaining the premise for the book. Ultimately the goal is for Jesus to stop the cycle of us sinning against one another and for women to trust Jesus for what our femininity truly looks like.

I can't begin to express all that God has been showing me with regards to biblical womanhood, but I will say that it's been very liberating. It truly is for freedom that Christ has set me free, and there's much freedom in living as a woman (or a man) according to God's original plan.

For women, Titus 2:4-5 is a great place to start.

Here's that link...

radicalwomanhood.com

Thai Cuisine

2008-10-11T13:54:00.000-04:00

When we were living in Tyler, Derek and I discovered a great little Thai restaurant. I learned the Chinese Super Buffet was not the best place for gaining an appreciation for true Asian food. The restaurant was called Baan Nitaya.

We ate there on one of our first dates, and then up to once a week after we were married. We took swing dance lessons with some friends, John and Karen. Swing dance lessons were in a pilates studio two doors down from the restaurant. We would dance and then go eat. Derek's favorite dish was the green curry. Mine was the pad thai.

So, I was pretty excited to find a fairly good Asian food section in our grocery store here in Austin. Here's a recipe for green curry that's pretty good! Maybe not quite as good as that made by the woman at Baan Nitaya, but close.

Thai Green Curry Chicken

14 oz. can coconut milk (I use the light.)

2 Tbsp green curry paste

2 fully cooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite size pieces

2 Tbsp fish sauce

2 Tbsp brown sugar

1/4 cup thinly sliced carrots

1/2 cup frozen peas

1/3 cup chicken stock

In a large saucepan over medium heat, bring coconut milk and green curry paste to a simmer for 5 minutes. Add chicken, fish sauce, brown sugar, carrots, peas, and chicken stock and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve over brown rice.

Easy Brown Rice: Mix 1 cup brown rice (washed), 3 cups water, 1 tsp salt in a casserole dish with a heavy lid. Bake at 300 degrees for 2 hours. An added benefit is that it makes the whole house smell yummy!

As a side note: if you're into wines, a Shiraz always seems to taste great with Thai food. At least to me!

Living Below the Line

2008-10-06T22:22:00.000-04:00

Our current economical situation has got me thinking. There's a little fear in me that the level of living I've grown accustomed to may not last. But then again, maybe that's not such a bad thing. Why do I think I deserve prosperity? Why in the world would we ever think it's our inherent right?

On Al Mohler's blog this week he has a quote from an essay in Time Magazine:

In the case of households, debt rose from about 50% of the GDP in 1980 to a peak of 100% in 2006. In other words, households now owe as much as the entire U.S. economy can produce in a year.

Did you catch that? In our race to keep up with the Joneses, we've borrowed our way so far into debt that we now owe as much as our entire economy can produce in a year. Families in the United States, all told, are billions of dollars in debt! And what do we have to show for it?

I just had a birthday and received a few hundred dollars in cash. I bought a few new shirts, some new pants, new shoes, a new bag... But when the money ran out, there were still things I wanted. I suppose I could have charged some things, after all I'd paid cash for most of it. But where do you stop? There's always going to be a cuter pair of shoes, a better looking pair of pants, one more kitchen gadget I just have to have...

It's sickening really. Do you know that if you are reading this post you are among the elite, the wealthiest people in the entire world? First of all, you have the education to read this post. Second, you have the time to read it. Then there's the fact that you've got a computer to read it on. But what have we done with these privileges? We've charged our way into debt up to our eyeballs because what we have is never enough.

Even as a believer, I still struggle with finding satisfaction in the created rather than in the Creator. How do I honor God with my finances? How do I find joy in Him rather that in this twisted culture we live in? Here's a few thoughts:

1. By giving - my tithe, but beyond that as well...giving to support Compassion International or Campus Crusade or to missions or to buy food for the food bank...

2. By GETTING OUT OF DEBT!!!

3. By living below our means and seeing what God wants to do with the excess. Every now and then, can't we look at something and say, "I can, but I believe I just won't."

4. By seeking God first everyday...those carpet fibers on your forehead are a crown of beauty to our King. I pray for my soul to be crushed with longing after God's Word. (Psalm 119:20)

For Love of the Word

2008-09-24T15:07:00.000-04:00

I have been taking an online seminary class this Fall on Systematic Theology. Most people could think of nothing more boring and pointless, but my mind works on the opposite stream. I find it fascinating, thought provoking, and most importantly it is stirring my affections for Christ and making me ask a lot of questions about myself. The question that continues to press on my heart and mind is this, "Do I really love the Scriptures."

2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work." Over the last few weeks these words have haunted me. We aren't talking about some random author who decided to put pen to paper and spill his thoughts. The God who created the world, holds it together,and intervened to bring salvation has spoken to us through the words of our sacred Scriptures. How can I not run to them every day several times a day. Instead I find myself browsing Barnes & Noble or searching Amazon.com for the next great book.

In one of my class lectures my professor stated that he thinks most Christians don't truly believe the words of 2 Timothy. If we really believed them then we would be running to the Bible more than anywhere else. I must sadly confess this attitude of unbelief usually resides in my heart. I am begging Jesus to change me. I am asking Him to put in me a burning passion for His Word. Because Psalm 19:7 says, "The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul..."

There is a season...turn, turn, turn

2008-09-22T22:15:00.000-04:00

Things I love about fall...

pumpkins

leaves changing color

candy corn

apple cider

football

bonfires

crisp mornings

Thanksgiving

For some reason, I'm really pumped about it being fall. Derek even brought home a fall flower bouquet for my little fall celebration.

Dinner with the Queen

2008-09-10T18:38:00.000-04:00

On a recent date night, Derek and I went to check out a little cafe in East Austin. It's called Nubian Queen Lola's Cajun Soul Food Kitchen. It's small inside, but Lola has a huge heart. We were the only customers at one point, so while we ate Lola told us her story.

She was once a depressed, alcoholic, but then she found Jesus. She now runs this restaurant all on her own - no cook or server. She even closes on Sundays to feed the homeless. She sells crafts made by a convict whose serving a life sentence. He donates the items to her, and she sells them for her ministry to the homeless. Sometimes customers leave a little extra to help, too.

She told us that at one point she had a light bill that was $350, and she only had $150. She figured she didn't have enough to pay the bill, so she gave the money away. Then, a customer came in and left her a check for $500. She says the Lord is the one taking care of her, and He's gonna do a better job than anyone else!

She's got a big heart, but she's tough, too! She got the name Nubian when she first opened her cafe. A few guys came in and tried to steal some money from her. She told them she needed it worse than they did! They laughed, told her they just wanted to see if she could make it in this neighborhood, and gave her the name Nubian. It means warrior.

All that, and the food was amazing! I had crawfish etouffee with greens, corn, and cornbread. I swear it melted in my mouth! I can't begin to imagine how much butter and salt is in there, but it's worth it! I would imagine it's the best cajun food and the best soul-food to be had in Austin.

The cafe is at 1815 Rosewood Avenue, and is open Mon-Sat 9-9.

Trees, Fruit and Seasons

2008-09-05T16:46:00.000-04:00

So for the last few weeks I have been reading Psalm 1 (it is actually a requirement for a seminary class I am taking. has there ever been a better homework assignment than to read the Word?!) In the Psalm is says a man is blessed if he meditates on the Law of God. Then it illustrates how the blessing turns out. It says, "he is like a tree that is planted by streams of water that yields it's fruit in season." Those last 3 words have really made me think over the last week or so. In my life as an Outdoor Education teacher I used to tell kids about trees and how most trees had a growing time and a dormant period. Which means that only during certain times of the year is a tree actually able to yield fruit. The rest of the year it is impossible for the tree to yield its fruit. That doesn't mean the rest of the year is a waste for the tree. In fact it needs these times in order to be able to bear fruit every year. So why have I been thinking about all of this.

Well, Jesus makes a point in John 15 to tell his disciples about fruit bearing. And it doesn't stop in John, the Bible is full of analogies that refer us back to the bearing of fruit. In the passage in John Jesus urges his disciples to abide in him in order to bear fruit. In Psalm 1 it tells us a righteous and blessed man yields fruit in season. Which means there are times where we will not be bearing fruit. But that does not mean I still don't abide in the vine. See a branch of a tree has no say in the bearing of fruit. The only job it has is to stay connected to the roots of the tree. As a believer really have no say in when I bear fruit. My only job is to stay connected to the vine/root which is Christ. And just like God the Father will decide when the tree will bear fruit the same goes for me and my life. And, according to Jesus, bearing fruit is what brings glory to God. So I am called to abide and to meditate on the Word and leave growing and bearing up to Him.

God opposes the proud

2008-09-02T20:43:00.000-04:00

"Don't pray for humility because then God will send things in your life to make you humble." These are words I have heard pastors, teachers, and even myself say to believers many times. It is typically said with some kind of laughter or joking laid into it, but I tend to find the things I joke about and am sarcastic about are really the things I am most serious about. So people who have said this, somewhere in their hearts believe this to be true.

This morning God dropped an eternal weight on me dealing with humility and how lightly we treat it. I have just begun reading in the book of Isaiah. And in the second chapter of the book God says this through His prophet,

"The haughty looks of man shall be brought low, and the lofty pride of men shall be humbled, and the Lord alone will be exalted in that day."

He will also make similar statements two other times in the chapter. These verses led me to turn to James and 1 Peter where they say, "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble." As I thought about those words I became mortified at myself. I don't take pride and humility with enough seriousness. God opposes the proud. I am still young, but I have lived enough of life to know I don't want God in opposition of me. Instead, I want grace. And I came to realize that I want it so badly that I would take all the humiliating circumstances God brings my way to get it. How dare I ever tell someone not to pray for humility. How dare I tell someone not to pray for the grace of God in their life. I realized every time I have made that statement it has been out of pride. Because the humbling circumstances make me look bad. That is pride and when I read Scripture it says God is standing in opposition to that, which means he is standing in opposition to me.

But, if I pray for humility you know what I get? There may be humbling circumstances and difficulties to face, but in all of that I get grace. And Ephesians says that grace will reflect the infinite glory of God in my life. So this morning I prayed two things:

1) For forgiveness for ever telling people to stand in opposition of God. (The realization I had done this absolutely devastated me, but praise Christ for grace)

2) I prayed for humility. I don't know what it will look like or how it will come but I am positive as God begins to cultivate it in my life grace will abound more and more. And I can't think of anything more I long for.

Grace in Galatia

2008-09-01T12:27:00.000-04:00

This summer, Derek and I have tried to be purposeful about studying the book of Galatians. We never spent hours in deep conversation over it, but did have a couple of good casual conversations here and there. Mostly, it's just been fun to study God's Word!

I did use a commentary, but only after I'd read Galatians through several times and done my own homiletics on it. (Thank you, BSF.) The commentary I read was by Scot McKnight and is titled "The Galatians NIV Application Commentary". Some of these thoughts I've taken from him. So, here's what I've taken away from Galatians.

Galatians was written by Paul and is thought by many to be the first canonical letter he wrote. I have also heard it referred to as a "mini-Romans". It's more directed to a particular problem Paul was seeing in the church, but the bottom line is still the same: salvation is by grace through faith in Christ, apart from works. (Amen!)

The letter was written to the church at Galatia to address their changing positions on one crucial subject: our means of acceptance with God. They were opting for a system in which grace was not crucial and Christ's work was not sufficient. The church had begun listening to the Judaizers, and turning to certain acts of the law as a means of acceptance. Circumcision and Jewish food laws were taking on upmost importance. Their faith was becoming a Jesus + Moses kind of faith. They were choosing a B.C. life in an A.D. world!

Enter Paul, who says, "If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed." (1:9) Accursed...anathema...condemned..."cut off from Christ" (Romans 9:3)...invoking God's final damnation and wrath on people who distort the gospel of grace in Christ.

Paul goes on to say, "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not nullify the grace of God, for if justification were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose. "(2:20-21)

So how does this apply to us today? The gospel has not changed. It is still Christ plus nothing. This book applies to any practice, attitude or theological belief that adds to the gospel and compromises the sufficiency of Christ and life in the Spirit. It's anything that you rely on other than Christ to make yourself acceptable before God.

The crazy thing is that many things we tend to rely on are not inherently wrong or bad. It could be thinking one style of worship music is more acceptable to God or feeling like a failure because your read-through-the Bible-in-a-year plan died in March. Maybe it's keeping a check list you rely on: baptism, participating in lent, never missing a church service...

Obviously, hymns are good, reading the Bible is good, baptism is good. The problem comes when I start relying on these things and teaching others they must do these things to be acceptable before God. Paul says let that person be eternally damned. (1:9) What I have to remember is that Christ is sufficient. Of course you should sing praises to God, read the Bible, get baptized... But these things don't earn me salvation. "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Another thing I learned is this: I can keep every rule in the book and perfectly practice the Christian life, and never live in the freedom of the Spirit. Being free is having a relationship with God, it is the result of the death of Jesus Christ, and it is life in the Spirit. "If you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law" (5:18), and anyone who is "led by the Spirit" is a son of God (Romans 8:14). If we listen to God's Spirit and to the teachings of Jesus, we will do what the law was trying to tell us to do. We will love God and love others. We will actually be doing God's will.

So, what does it mean to be led by God's Spirit? "Legalists are led by the law, hedonists are led by their desires, materialists are led by their possessions. But, Sons of God are led by the Spirit. What prompts their actions, what stirs their emotions, what guides their behavior, and what determines their careers is God's Spirit. Furthermore, sons of God do not fear and worry about where the Spirit will lead them. They know that God's Spirit will lead them perfectly into God's will and God's blessing so they march behind confidently and joyously." (from the commentary)

John Stott says, "True freedom is freedom from my silly little self, in order to live responsibly in love for God and others." Love is defined by Christ's sacrifice on the cross (2:20), inspired by God's Spirit (5:22-23), and expressed by doing good in our relationships (5:13-14, 6:10). Mr. McKnight add, "Being able to love others is not the result of discipline; it is a miracle". Water is turned into wine as the Spirit takes control of our lives.

Whew! I know I'm more than a little challenged to love well. So this is my prayer...for freedom in the Spirit and to allow the Spirit control of my life with the result of loving God and loving others well.

The Only Real Way to Live

2008-08-12T21:28:00.000-04:00

I figure it would be a little prideful for Derek to post his own sermon, but it's okay for me. I know I'm a little biased, but I thought it was really good. It's stuck with me and challenged me this week.

As a result, little inconveniences have served to remind me that I'm not at the center of the universe...not even my own universe. In Mark 8:34, Jesus says,"If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." But taking up the cross doesn't look like my everyday struggles. (As I once thought.)

Jesus took up the only cross that matters, and He proclaimed, "It is finished!" It's not my job to try and earn some form of salvation by struggling to do good things. So what is my part? Jesus. Period. It's not about me. It's about the sufficiency of Jesus Christ in all things. He died on that cross because I couldn't. (Oh, how amazing grace is!) So things like smelly trash, my dog pooping in the floor at 4 am, and a bathtub that seems to lack a drain, are not my cross to bear. But they are great little means to the end of denying myself.

http://www.wbcaustin.org/sermons/

Embracing Austin II

2008-08-10T18:48:00.001-04:00

We've just experienced a thoroughly Austin weekend. Derek preached this Sunday so our friends, Will and Kaely, came down and hung out with us. We went to Hamilton Pool, ate pizza at Frank & Angie's, and watched the bats fly out to hunt.

Yes...those of you who don't live in Austin, you read right. Come to find out, Austin has the largest urban bat colony in North America. The Congress Avenue Bridge is host to up to 1.5 million of the little creatures, and August is the best time of year to watch them. So, along with a couple thousand others, we watched their nightly migration to find food. Apparently they are good to have around as they can eat anywhere from 10,000 to 20,000 pounds of insects a night!

Before & After

2008-08-07T21:27:00.000-04:00

We've been busy lately. Charlie got a new do. And we moved. Not out of Austin...actually closer in. We are renting an apartment that's cut my drive in half and cut our rent. (Yea Dave Ramsey!) The night before our move, our movers cancelled on us. But, a few good men from WBC saved the day. Thank you Matt, Matt, Michael, and Eddie!

The day I don't matter!!

2008-07-12T19:01:00.000-04:00

This is the first time I have posted anything on this blog. This may be the last time I post anything on here, too. I am not opposed to blogging, obviously. Most of the time I just can't think of anything to say. So since this could be the one an only, here we go.

The title of this blog is basically what I am striving for. I have spent the last year in a painful, beautiful, and all around interesting place spiritually (I hate using that word because I don't think life should be compartmentalized in to sacred and secular, but I can't think of a better word). I was thinking about it the other day and the best way I can describe it is like drinking from a fire hose. I feel like God has poured Himself out in my life in some vary astounding ways and I have loved drinking it all in. The scary part of all of this is that some times the water is coming so fast and in such great quantities that it feels like I'm drowning and I don't know how to turn in off. Not to mention the fact, that if I turn it off I don't know if I can turn it back on again.

Through all of this here is what I have come to realize. I use the word I too much. God has been showing me that all of the things that happen in this life are really about Jesus. I think if you asked most people they would say this in principle, but don't truly live life with this view. But if you read the Bible (which is all about Jesus, by the way, and when I say all I truly mean all. Every word in the Old Testament and New Testament are about Jesus) it seems to point to the ultimate reality where Jesus is before all things, in all things, and all things are held together because of Him. That means I breathe today because of Him, I eat today not because I made the food or made the money to buy the food, but because Jesus gives me food to eat. I make money because He gave me a job and gave me the capacity to think and reason. So if all that is true then all of the stuff I do in life isn't about me. Instead, it is about Him and His glory and His renown.

This truth has brought a heavy and abiding weight to my soul. Mainly because 90% of my day is spent thinking about myself and what is good for me. 9.9% is spent thinking somewhat about other people and their feelings. I may actually squeeze Jesus into about .1% of my day, and those are the good days. But I will continue to fight and continue to struggle. Because Paul said in Galatians that the desires of the Spirit and the desires of the flesh are in complete opposition. He goes on to say that the Spirit can overcome the flesh. It is for that day I long, hope, fight, struggle and persevere. All for the day that I don't matter.

amazingly good chocolate chip cookies

2008-07-12T17:32:00.000-04:00

These are Derek's favorite cookies, and he doesn't even like chocolate. We are having a lazy summer day, and he's been dropping hints. So, I decided to make a batch. This recipe is also from The Pastry Queen Cookbook by Rebecca Rather. (I've got no shame in the fact that just about every desert I make has her name on it.)

I've come to the conclusion that any recipe that starts out with 1 stick of butter + 1 cup of sugar is going to taste great in the end. So, the fact that this one starts with 2 sticks of butter + 2 cups of sugar (1 granulated, 1 brown) says it all. The smell of butter, sugar, and vanilla all creamed together warms my heart. Oh, and yes, that does say 3 cups of chocolate chips.

1 1/2 c walnuts

1 1/2 c pecans

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temp

1 c firmly packed dark brown sugar

1 c granulated sugar

2 eggs

1 tbsp vanilla extract

2 1/3 c all-purpose flour

1 1/4 tsp baking soda

1 scant tsp salt

3 c chocolate cups

Preheat the oven to 350. Arrange the nuts on a baking sheet in a single layer and toast for 7-9 min. Cool and then coarsely chop. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or grease generously. Using a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream butter and both sugars in a large bowl on medium speed about 1 min, until fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla and beat on medium speed for 1 minute. Add the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix on medium-low speed until incorporated. Stir in the nuts and chocolate chips. Drop the dough in golf-ball size mounds, spacing about 1 1/2 inches apart onto prepared cookie sheets. Bake for 10-12 min. (It's okay if the middle still looks a little raw as long as the edges are brown.) Viola!

from everlasting to everlasting...

2008-07-10T21:53:00.000-04:00

"Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God." -Psalm 90:2

"tell him I am sick with love." -Song of Solomon 5:8

"And the LORD will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail." -Isaiah 58:11

"I lift my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber." -Psalm 121:1-3

"Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul." -Psalm 143:8

Bible Study & Baking

2008-06-19T21:52:00.000-04:00

I think what you do with your alone time says a lot about you. People fascinate me, but not the surfacy stuff you get on first meeting someone. I'm curious to know who people really are, deep down, when no one else is around. How you spend your alone time is part of that. Do you read?watch t.v.? sleep? go for a run?

I can tell you what I do. I had the day off today. No agenda. No housework. I slept late. I drank coffee and studied the Bible. I met a friend for lunch. I went to the gym. I baked some bread for dinner. I spent time eating and talking with my husband. To me, that's just about a perfect day.

When no one else is around, I'm probably reading or baking. Derek and I are studying Galatians together this summer. I'm loving it. (I will share more later.) For now, I want to encourage anyone reading this. Be in God's Word. It's one of the best ways to spend alone time.

I also love to bake. (Different Greek word for love.) So, with that in mind, I've decided this would be a good place to post recipes I want to share. We had friends over for dinner last night, and I tried a new chicken recipe and an old cobbler recipe. I've attached pictures and recipes for anyone interested. It's just about the best cobbler recipe I've ever tasted. And, it's super easy. And if you don't know what rosemary smells like...

Roasted Chicken Breast with Lemon, Garlic, Rosemary and Potatoes

-from goodthingscatered.blogspot.com

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of extra fat

1 1/2 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened but not melted

Zest of 1/2 large lemon, lemon reserved

2 large cloves of garlic, minced

2 tsp fresh rosemary leaves

1 tsp olive oil

1 tsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

3 Russet potatoes, washed thoroughly and cut into 3/4 inch cubes

salt

ground pepper

Directions:

-Preheat oven to 425 degrees and line a large baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup

-Pat chicken breasts dry, season liberally with salt and pepper and place in pan

-In a small bowl, combine butter, lemon zest, garlic, and rosemary and stir to combine

-Spread butter mixture evenly over chicken breasts with back of spoon

-Sliced reserved lemon and place slices around the chicken

-In a medium bowl, place cubed potatoes and toss with 1 tsp olive oil, parsley, salt and pepper

-Scatter potatoes around chicken breast

-Place in oven and bak 30-40 minutes or until thickest portion of chicken has reached 175*

-Remove from oven, take chicken out of pan and place on a serving platter; tent w/ foil

-Take a pinch of salt and sprinkle potatoes, toss, and place back in oven 5-10 min.

-Remove potatoes and serve with chicken

Hill Country Peach Cobbler

-from The Pastry Queen by Rebecca Rather

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 Tbsp baking powder

3/4 cup milk (low-fat works)

3 cups sliced fresh peaches, peels left on

1/2 cup firmly packed golden brown sugar

-Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

-Melt butter in a medium pan over medium-high heat until it bubbles and turns a nutty brown color. (Be careful not to burn)

-Pour butter into an 8-inch square baking dish.

-In a medium bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and milk.

-Pour the milk mixture on top of the melted butter. Do not stir.

-Without mixing, arrange the peaches evenly on top of the batter.

-Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the cobbler.

-Bake the cobbler for 40-45 minutes, until the top turns golden brown.

-Serve warm or at room temperature.

Note: Anyone who knows me well knows that this cookbook is my absolute favorite. It's not much to look at anymore. It has no cover, and the pages are worn and wrinkled from all the batters that have been dribbled on them. The recipes are outstanding. Anyone with half a sweet-tooth should own this book.

Embracing Austin

2008-06-16T21:28:00.000-04:00

Some of you out there in blog world may have to brace yourself for what I'm about to say. There are some who can't imagine life outside of Austin or think you'll have arrived if only you could get to Austin (and I love you dearly). However, that's not my story. Now, all you Austinophiliacs, don't tune me out just yet. I never really knew what all the fuss was about. And there were other things, too.

I heard a pastor say recently, "Almost all of us have spiritually what is called a desert. Almost all of us have had that month, that year...where God feels far from us. If it happened to the men in the Bible, it's going to happen to you."

So, this has been a hard year. We've even questioned whether this was the right decision. But, a good friend said, "Maybe the fact that it's been hard is confirmation that this is where God wants you." (thanks Will) I think he's right.

So, now it's almost a year since our move. The hard days are fewer. My relationship with God is deeper. And I can say with the psalmist, "Why are you cast down, O my soul and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God."

There have been some pretty ugly pity parties, but I'm at least learning to make the most of things. My mom calls it "that program that I'm on". I call it embracing Austin. Basically, we do Austiny things and snap pictures with our new camera. Don't laugh; it's helping. Yes, I realize it makes me look like a tourist. I don't care. It's a funny thing that happens when God makes himself greater in your life. The world becomes less, and you care less what others think. So enjoy our life in Austin, just as I'm learning to...

walking Charlie in the Hamilton Greenbelt...

Gospel sunday brunch at Stubb's BBQ with the Tippins

celebrating new life with new friends (me, Sarah & Nolan, Kristin & Grant, and Kaely)

the sign says it all.

pancakes at Kirby Lane

dinner at the Hula Hut with Amy

more to come...

Weddings & Anniversaries

2008-06-04T20:34:00.000-04:00

Derek and I have been to at least 14 weddings together (counting our own). We feel like this is a lot! Somehow each one is still special and different. This weekend we attended the wedding of one of my

cousins, Trey Coleman, to Whitney Johnson. It was a beautiful wedding and great fun to catch up with and spend time with family.

Congratulations Trey & Whitney!

The Girls!

Derek and I also celebrated our two year anniversary this week. June 3. Wow those two years went by fast! I have to say, marriage has been one of the absolutely best things that has ever happened to me. I love my husband. I have no doubt, he is a gift from God!

Musings on Matthew

2008-05-23T20:25:00.000-04:00

I've been spending time this week reviewing my year spent studying the book of Matthew. I've been in Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) for 3 1/2 years now, and I like to be able to wrap each year up in a neat little package. Of course that doesn't usually work.

So, here are some things God has shown me in Matthew:

*Jesus does not rush around trying to save everyone in 3 years. He was orderly and purposeful.

*Jesus suffered when he was tempted.

-Matthew 4:1-11; Hebrews 2:18

*Jesus wants us to pray persistently and not give up.

-Luke 18: 1-8

*God will not always grant superficial desires, but He will satisfy the deep longing of your heart for spiritual growth and discernment.

*God may answer your deepest needs for Him through suffering and trouble.

*Salvation and spiritual healing do not terminate on us. We are called to serve.

-Matthew 8:14-17

*Jesus sends his disciples into a storm, but they come through proclaiming him the Son of God.

-Matthew 14:22-33

*It's really cool to watch Jesus "handle" the Pharisees.

*The wonder is not that few are chosen, but that any are.

-Matthew 22:14

*In eating the bread and drinking the cup, we proclaim the Lord's death until He returns.

-1 Corinthians 11:26

*Jesus is the ultimate authority, no matter what the world says is reasonable and good.

*Jesus was in authority throughout His arrest, trials, crucifixion, and death.

*Jesus died without clothes on His body that we might be clothed with garments of salvation.

*The angel doesn't roll away the stone to let Jesus out, but rather to let the women in.

-Matthew 28:2

*"Freely you have received; freely give." -Matthew 10:8

Okay, I think I've scratched the surface.

For more information on BSF check out:

bsfinternational.org

Quest for a great blog design

2008-05-07T19:34:00.000-04:00

The scrapbooker in me just can't stand to have such a plain blog. One of my favorite blog designers is Jenny at Pink Armchair Designs. Link to her page to see some of her stuff. Pick me for the free design, Jenny!

The Beginning

2008-05-07T19:28:00.000-04:00

So, I'm getting into the whole blog thing. This is my first official post. It's a little weird because I'm trying to think less that the world revolves around me. I'm realizing more and more that's it's all about Jesus. So, we'll see where this all goes.