Sorry I haven't been around since Tuesday. Wednesday was the first day at my new job @ the local hospital. Thursday I had to work my first job in Jeffersonville, Indiana. And now today- here I am. A couple of days behind- but back at it! I didn't forget! As long as I come back- that's all that matters huh? This weekend may be hard for me to keep up- I work 12 hour shifts Saturday and Sunday starting @ 6:30am- so I may just come home-eat-and crash!
So on to the topic at hand....
What I imagine paradise to be like:
I imagine that paradise is pain-free. Relaxing. Stress free. There is no work. There is no illnesses. There is no anger. Hurt. Bad feelings. Or debt. There are no bills to pay...and no worries [cue Hakuna Matata song from Lion King]. You can eat anything you want [and never get full or a stomach ache]. You can see all the people you would want to see. I would imagine that you could do anything that you would want to do [within reason]. Life would just be perfect [much like the Garden of Eden]. You may even be able to be naked if you so chose!
Well- I am off for now. I am at my in-laws house for dinner- and had some down time. Now I have to work on my take home work project- and rest a little bit before my loooooong day tomorrow!
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Friday, January 14, 2011
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Day 3- 5 songs I would have on a desert island
Well today is a snowy cold day. And I refuse to go out in it! Last year- I tried to make it to school when the roads were frozen- made it less then half-way- and had to have Travis and his dad come and get me. I was not going to go that route again. Nope, not me. So here I am, at home, with my kiddos [who I'm sure are going to go stir crazy very shortly]
Today's question-
What 5 songs? That's a hard one for me- I love music- a lot. But if I had to choose just 5, I guess they'd be-
Today's question-
What 5 songs? That's a hard one for me- I love music- a lot. But if I had to choose just 5, I guess they'd be-
- At Last- Etta James
- Feeling Good- Michael Buble
- Words I would say- Sidewalk Prophets
- If you wanna be my lover- Spice Girls
- Hangin tough- New Kids on the Block
Some of the music would be motivational and inspiring. And some would be upbeat so I could keep my mind off of being on a desert island.
Well- I'm off for now, gotta get some cleaning done and keep my kiddos from tearing the walls down!
Faithfully Ever After- KellyMonday, January 10, 2011
Day 2- Something that inspires me
So, today is day 2 of my 30 day challenge of self discovery.
[Yay me- pat on back]
Something that inspires me.
Can I have more then 1? Because I have a few. [I love making lists]
I can't wait for day 3. I love learning about me.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
[Yay me- pat on back]
Something that inspires me.
Can I have more then 1? Because I have a few. [I love making lists]
- my kiddos inspire me- they make me strive to do better. Not just for them- but for myself. I hope that when they look at me- they see success and something they want to be, not something they are ashamed of.
- Travis inspires me- he makes me want to do more for myself. He is my corner man. The man that patches me up when I'm hurt- wipes me off when I'm sweaty- props me up when I'm down.
- my dad/step-mom/mother- striving to make them proud of me and doing things a little better then they did inspires me.
I can't wait for day 3. I love learning about me.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Day 1- My guilty pleasure
I actually have a few guilty pleasures [ I can't limit myself to talking about just one!]
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
- chocolate ice cream [or any ice cream] for breakfast
- a hot bath with a good book
- foot rubs from Travis
- getting my nails done
- getting my hair done
- watching re-run reality shows [even if I know the ending]
- dancing around to music from my teen years [ie NSYNC, Backstreet Boys]
- Oreo cookies and milk
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Personal 30 day challenge
First- I would like to say thank you to Casey Barnett for posting this on her Facebook and giving me the idea to spend 30 days thinking about myself.
I really never think about myself. I hate to be selfish. I always put my kids and Travis first- then me last. But, at the beginning of 2011 I decided that I was going to focus a tad bit more on me- beginning with a little personal challenge. Getting to know me a little more [and sharind me with you!]
[that- and I was running out of creative things to post- my mind has been so busy with schedules/work/house cleaning. and I didn't want to blog about cleaning!]
This is the challenge that I am going to give myself for the next month- welcome to Kelly :)
PERSONAL 30 DAY CHALLENGE:
day 01- Guilty pleasure
day 02- Something that inspires you
day 03- The five songs you would have with you on a desert island and why
day 04- What you imagine paradise to be like
day 05- A thank you letter to someone who has changed your life
day 06- Earliest thing you can remember
day 07- Favorite cover of your favorite song
day 08- Someone you think would make a good president
day 09- Five things you want to see change
day 10- A dream you had this past week described in detail
day 11- Favorite picture ever taken of yourself
day 12- Your favorite musical artist’s life story
day 13- A memory that never fails to make you laugh
day 14- Best mashup you’ve ever heard
day 15- A moment, phrase, or song that has changed your life the most.
day 16- Something that you want to do within the next five years.
day 17- What you want to remembered for.
day 18- A picture that makes you feel
day 19- A passage from a book that has touched you
day 20- A band that you immediately liked and the song that made you like them
day 21- Your favorite medium of art.
day 22- Someone you would give your life up for without question.
day 23- Most awkward first impression you feel you’ve ever given
day 24- Something you did as a child that other people remember you for.
day 25- Something you would do if no one stopped you or if you knew you wouldn’t fail.
day 26- Your definition of love.
day 27- Your definition of the meaning of life.
day 28- A moment you remember being completely happy in and a description of why you believe you were. what is your definition of happiness?
day 29- What you live for.
day 30- Ways you believe you have grown over the past thirty days
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
I really never think about myself. I hate to be selfish. I always put my kids and Travis first- then me last. But, at the beginning of 2011 I decided that I was going to focus a tad bit more on me- beginning with a little personal challenge. Getting to know me a little more [and sharind me with you!]
[that- and I was running out of creative things to post- my mind has been so busy with schedules/work/house cleaning. and I didn't want to blog about cleaning!]
This is the challenge that I am going to give myself for the next month- welcome to Kelly :)
PERSONAL 30 DAY CHALLENGE:
day 01- Guilty pleasure
day 02- Something that inspires you
day 03- The five songs you would have with you on a desert island and why
day 04- What you imagine paradise to be like
day 05- A thank you letter to someone who has changed your life
day 06- Earliest thing you can remember
day 07- Favorite cover of your favorite song
day 08- Someone you think would make a good president
day 09- Five things you want to see change
day 10- A dream you had this past week described in detail
day 11- Favorite picture ever taken of yourself
day 12- Your favorite musical artist’s life story
day 13- A memory that never fails to make you laugh
day 14- Best mashup you’ve ever heard
day 15- A moment, phrase, or song that has changed your life the most.
day 16- Something that you want to do within the next five years.
day 17- What you want to remembered for.
day 18- A picture that makes you feel
day 19- A passage from a book that has touched you
day 20- A band that you immediately liked and the song that made you like them
day 21- Your favorite medium of art.
day 22- Someone you would give your life up for without question.
day 23- Most awkward first impression you feel you’ve ever given
day 24- Something you did as a child that other people remember you for.
day 25- Something you would do if no one stopped you or if you knew you wouldn’t fail.
day 26- Your definition of love.
day 27- Your definition of the meaning of life.
day 28- A moment you remember being completely happy in and a description of why you believe you were. what is your definition of happiness?
day 29- What you live for.
day 30- Ways you believe you have grown over the past thirty days
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Eh
Today is an eh day. A day where I say eh.
I am so tired. Physically. Emotionally. Spiritually.
Eh.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
I am so tired. Physically. Emotionally. Spiritually.
Eh.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Friday, January 7, 2011
Funeral Questions
I just realized- at this very moment- that a lot of the things I experience, I can usually sum up with a song. I guess maybe my life should have been a musical? That'd be fun, but I'm not sure I could handle all the hair/makeup/wardrobe that I'm sure would come with that. Hehe.
Back to the original topic-
So yesterday [cue Beatles] was the day that our family said our final good-bye to Uncle Tom. But let me tell you, I wasn't ready. I know- who is ever really ready to say good-bye to someone they love? Yesterday was hard. Very hard. But Micah [my 6 year old] made the day a little brighter.
You see, she is a very bright, but inquisitive girl who needs to know all the details about things. So throughout the funeral she asked me a lot of questions- and of course, as her mother, I tried to answer them the best I could.
Micah: "Mom- does Uncle Tom have shoes on?"
Me: "Yes he does honey."
Micah: "And socks?"
Me: "Yes"
Micah: "Clean ones?!?"
Me: "Of course baby, he wouldn't wear dirty ones would he?"
Later...
Micah: "How did they get him in there [ie casket]?"
Me: "I have no idea"
Micah: "I'm sure they picked him up Mommy."
[good point huh?]
The last one [and my personal favorite]...
Micah: "How'd they get Uncle Tom to stand up to put his clothes on?"
Me: "They didn't"
Micah: "Well how'd they get the clothes on then?"
Me: [thinking quickly] "You know how we lay babies who don't know how to stand on the couch and put their clothes on? Well that's how they did him." [good thinking Kelly]
Micah: "Oh, okay Mommy."
That girl can even make a funeral not so hard. I love her. Questions and all.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Back to the original topic-
So yesterday [cue Beatles] was the day that our family said our final good-bye to Uncle Tom. But let me tell you, I wasn't ready. I know- who is ever really ready to say good-bye to someone they love? Yesterday was hard. Very hard. But Micah [my 6 year old] made the day a little brighter.
You see, she is a very bright, but inquisitive girl who needs to know all the details about things. So throughout the funeral she asked me a lot of questions- and of course, as her mother, I tried to answer them the best I could.
Micah: "Mom- does Uncle Tom have shoes on?"
Me: "Yes he does honey."
Micah: "And socks?"
Me: "Yes"
Micah: "Clean ones?!?"
Me: "Of course baby, he wouldn't wear dirty ones would he?"
Later...
Micah: "How did they get him in there [ie casket]?"
Me: "I have no idea"
Micah: "I'm sure they picked him up Mommy."
[good point huh?]
The last one [and my personal favorite]...
Micah: "How'd they get Uncle Tom to stand up to put his clothes on?"
Me: "They didn't"
Micah: "Well how'd they get the clothes on then?"
Me: [thinking quickly] "You know how we lay babies who don't know how to stand on the couch and put their clothes on? Well that's how they did him." [good thinking Kelly]
Micah: "Oh, okay Mommy."
That girl can even make a funeral not so hard. I love her. Questions and all.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Getting to know the girl behind the blog!
This is a little survey about me. Just so you all can have a little information about who's writing to you day after day. Just a little about the woman behind this blog :)
___________________________________________________________________________________
Apple juice or orange juice? Apple
Are you a morning or night person? Let's call it- mid-afternoon
Which do you prefer, sweet or salty foods? Sweets [for the win]
Ninjas or pirates? Most definitely ninja [I look best in black]
Ninjas vs pirates, discuss. Well ninjas actually do things- like fight and defend people. Pirates just plunder and sail. I don't like water all that well.
What was your favorite childhood television program? I watched a lot of TV when I was younger- but the one that stands out the most in my mind would have to be "Punky Brewster"
Are you a collector of anything? I have a stash of magazines under my bed [don't let your mind go there]. They are all parenting magazines- and I don't get rid of them because I'm scared I'll need an article and won't have it!
If you could be any animal, what would you be? Snow leopard
If you could have any superpower, what would it be? Ability to read people's minds. And be able to choose whose mind I read.
What is usually your first thought when you wake up? Boy I'm still so sleepy!
What do you usually think about right before falling asleep? Today was a really long day!
What's your favorite color? I have 3, lime green-pink-and black
What's your favorite animal? I love cows!
Do you believe in extraterrestrials or life on other planets? Yes, I don't think humans are the only ones. Where are they? I don't know. But they are there
Do you believe in ghosts? Yeah- but I'm not sure they make contact like people believe they do.
Ever been addicted to a video/computer game? Which one(s)? Facebook had me addicted to for a summer.
You're given 1 million dollars, what do you spend it on? Bills, my parents bills, a new house, and a college fund for my kiddos.
Have any bad habits? Cracking my knuckles and ankles- and chewing my nails
Which bad habits, if any, drive you crazy? Chewing loudly
List 3 of your best personality traits: Nice-funny-caring
List 3 of your worst personality traits: Selfish [at times]- anti-social [at times]- bitchy
Have any celebrity crushes? I love Taylor Lautner and Jude Law
List 1 thing you wish you could change about yourself: I wish I had more energy on a regular basis
Any tattoos or piercings? 14 piercings and 7 tattoos
What's the first thing you notice in the opposite sex? Smile
What personality traits do you look for in a partner? Caring-funny-nice-sweet- intelligent
What personality traits do you dislike in other people? I thoroughly dislike rude people
Are you mostly a clean or messy person? A little of both
Do you see yourself getting married in the next 5 years? I am married- so 5 years from now I hope to be still married!
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live? Someplace warm!
If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go? Ireland-China-Australia
List 5 goals on your life's to-do list: Bungee jump-Scuba dive-Drive Cross Country- Fly Across the World- Buy my own House
Name 1 regret you have: Worrying so much about little things and not taking time to relax
Name 1 thing you miss about being a kid: The naps!
Name 1 thing you love about being an adult: The freedom
What's your favorite song of the moment? Mean- by Taylor Swift
What's your favorite song of all time? That's a hard one!
What's your favorite thing to do on a Saturday night? Hang out with my kiddos and Travis
What's your favorite thing to do on a Sunday afternoon? Church/nap
Have any hidden talents? None that I know of
You're about to walk the green mile, what do you have as your last meal? Taco Bell
What would be your dream job? Right where I am right now
Which would you rather have, 100 million dollars or true love? True Love
If you could have 3 wishes granted, what would they be? To be in love with Travis forever- to have my kids grow up in a good life- to be happy
Ever wish you were born the opposite sex? If so, why? Nope
Name 1 thing not many people know about you: Its hard for me to trust anyone
If you HAD to change your name, what would you change it to? Scarlett
Do you believe in the afterlife? I believe that when we die- we spend eternity with Jesus- so I guess- yeah
On the topic of abortion, how do you feel about cookies? This question makes no sense- but I love cookies :)
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
___________________________________________________________________________________
Apple juice or orange juice? Apple
Are you a morning or night person? Let's call it- mid-afternoon
Which do you prefer, sweet or salty foods? Sweets [for the win]
Ninjas or pirates? Most definitely ninja [I look best in black]
Ninjas vs pirates, discuss. Well ninjas actually do things- like fight and defend people. Pirates just plunder and sail. I don't like water all that well.
What was your favorite childhood television program? I watched a lot of TV when I was younger- but the one that stands out the most in my mind would have to be "Punky Brewster"
Are you a collector of anything? I have a stash of magazines under my bed [don't let your mind go there]. They are all parenting magazines- and I don't get rid of them because I'm scared I'll need an article and won't have it!
If you could be any animal, what would you be? Snow leopard
If you could have any superpower, what would it be? Ability to read people's minds. And be able to choose whose mind I read.
What is usually your first thought when you wake up? Boy I'm still so sleepy!
What do you usually think about right before falling asleep? Today was a really long day!
What's your favorite color? I have 3, lime green-pink-and black
What's your favorite animal? I love cows!
Do you believe in extraterrestrials or life on other planets? Yes, I don't think humans are the only ones. Where are they? I don't know. But they are there
Do you believe in ghosts? Yeah- but I'm not sure they make contact like people believe they do.
Ever been addicted to a video/computer game? Which one(s)? Facebook had me addicted to for a summer.
You're given 1 million dollars, what do you spend it on? Bills, my parents bills, a new house, and a college fund for my kiddos.
Have any bad habits? Cracking my knuckles and ankles- and chewing my nails
Which bad habits, if any, drive you crazy? Chewing loudly
List 3 of your best personality traits: Nice-funny-caring
List 3 of your worst personality traits: Selfish [at times]- anti-social [at times]- bitchy
Have any celebrity crushes? I love Taylor Lautner and Jude Law
List 1 thing you wish you could change about yourself: I wish I had more energy on a regular basis
Any tattoos or piercings? 14 piercings and 7 tattoos
What's the first thing you notice in the opposite sex? Smile
What personality traits do you look for in a partner? Caring-funny-nice-sweet- intelligent
What personality traits do you dislike in other people? I thoroughly dislike rude people
Are you mostly a clean or messy person? A little of both
Do you see yourself getting married in the next 5 years? I am married- so 5 years from now I hope to be still married!
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live? Someplace warm!
If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go? Ireland-China-Australia
List 5 goals on your life's to-do list: Bungee jump-Scuba dive-Drive Cross Country- Fly Across the World- Buy my own House
Name 1 regret you have: Worrying so much about little things and not taking time to relax
Name 1 thing you miss about being a kid: The naps!
Name 1 thing you love about being an adult: The freedom
What's your favorite song of the moment? Mean- by Taylor Swift
What's your favorite song of all time? That's a hard one!
What's your favorite thing to do on a Saturday night? Hang out with my kiddos and Travis
What's your favorite thing to do on a Sunday afternoon? Church/nap
Have any hidden talents? None that I know of
You're about to walk the green mile, what do you have as your last meal? Taco Bell
What would be your dream job? Right where I am right now
Which would you rather have, 100 million dollars or true love? True Love
If you could have 3 wishes granted, what would they be? To be in love with Travis forever- to have my kids grow up in a good life- to be happy
Ever wish you were born the opposite sex? If so, why? Nope
Name 1 thing not many people know about you: Its hard for me to trust anyone
If you HAD to change your name, what would you change it to? Scarlett
Do you believe in the afterlife? I believe that when we die- we spend eternity with Jesus- so I guess- yeah
On the topic of abortion, how do you feel about cookies? This question makes no sense- but I love cookies :)
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Heaven
Again I sit here with my mind restless- running full of ideas and thoughts [that's status quot for me] and my heart heavy.
Travis' Uncle Tom has gone to be with Jesus after years of battling various illnesses. He passed away 6:29pm 01/03/2011 surrounded by family at his home.
When I first moved to Shelbyville from Indianapolis in 2005- Brenda [Travis' aunt] and Tom were some of the first people I met. And they both [instantly] fell in love with Micah [much like people do]. They treated her as if, maybe better, then they treated their own family. Micah and Tom used to ride around on his power chair and eat lots of honey buns. They would go "fishing" in the creek and play outside. She was his "baby girl". And now- he's at home with sweet Jesus.
This pains me. Not just for me. Or Travis. Or Tom's family. But for Micah. This is one funeral that is going to be extremely hard for me, because of her. She's 6 now- so death is more of a reality for her. This is one death that will actually be close to her and may just break her heart. And I'm not sure my heart can handle her tears this time around.
Well that brings me to the topic at hand. Heaven. Paradise. Where we are promised if we live a life that is good and pure- and we put our full trust/heart/soul in God. Heaven was the last thing on my mind- until last night. And now I can't get my mind off of it.
Country singer Buddy Jewell had a song years ago- called "Help Pour Out the Rain (Lacey's Song)". The song is about a girl playing 20 questions with her father during a car ride- and the questions turned to Heaven.
She said: "Daddy, when we get to Heaven, can I taste the Milky Way?
"Are we goin' there to visit, or are we goin' there to stay?
"Am I gonna see my Grandpa? Can I have a pair of wings?
"An' do you think that God could use another Angel,
"To help pour out the rain?"
And much like the child in this song- I have so many questions. Questions that I wish were answered. What is it like? Who's there? Do we know we're there when we get there? Do we get to be with Jesus all day? Or our loved ones?
But I know they be answered can't until I get there.
So for now- I am going to hang my hat on the thought- that as long as I keep God in my heart. I keep doing His work. I keep my kids on the right path. I continue to proclaim that Jesus is Lord. And keep God first- then I will make it to that place.
Were I get to meet Jesus face to face, bask in His glory- maybe get a cool pair of angel wings and help pour out the rain.
Rest in peace with Sweet Jesus, Uncle Tom. We love you and miss you so much already. Keep an eye on your "baby girl", and always know how much she loved you. Can't wait to see you soon.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Travis' Uncle Tom has gone to be with Jesus after years of battling various illnesses. He passed away 6:29pm 01/03/2011 surrounded by family at his home.
When I first moved to Shelbyville from Indianapolis in 2005- Brenda [Travis' aunt] and Tom were some of the first people I met. And they both [instantly] fell in love with Micah [much like people do]. They treated her as if, maybe better, then they treated their own family. Micah and Tom used to ride around on his power chair and eat lots of honey buns. They would go "fishing" in the creek and play outside. She was his "baby girl". And now- he's at home with sweet Jesus.
This pains me. Not just for me. Or Travis. Or Tom's family. But for Micah. This is one funeral that is going to be extremely hard for me, because of her. She's 6 now- so death is more of a reality for her. This is one death that will actually be close to her and may just break her heart. And I'm not sure my heart can handle her tears this time around.
Well that brings me to the topic at hand. Heaven. Paradise. Where we are promised if we live a life that is good and pure- and we put our full trust/heart/soul in God. Heaven was the last thing on my mind- until last night. And now I can't get my mind off of it.
Country singer Buddy Jewell had a song years ago- called "Help Pour Out the Rain (Lacey's Song)". The song is about a girl playing 20 questions with her father during a car ride- and the questions turned to Heaven.
She said: "Daddy, when we get to Heaven, can I taste the Milky Way?
"Are we goin' there to visit, or are we goin' there to stay?
"Am I gonna see my Grandpa? Can I have a pair of wings?
"An' do you think that God could use another Angel,
"To help pour out the rain?"
And much like the child in this song- I have so many questions. Questions that I wish were answered. What is it like? Who's there? Do we know we're there when we get there? Do we get to be with Jesus all day? Or our loved ones?
But I know they be answered can't until I get there.
So for now- I am going to hang my hat on the thought- that as long as I keep God in my heart. I keep doing His work. I keep my kids on the right path. I continue to proclaim that Jesus is Lord. And keep God first- then I will make it to that place.
Were I get to meet Jesus face to face, bask in His glory- maybe get a cool pair of angel wings and help pour out the rain.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Monday, January 3, 2011
Day by Day
Today has very much been a Godspell lyric day for me.
This is one of my FAVORITE musicals of all time [behind Grease of course]. The basic story [for those who haven't seen it or heard of it] is based on the gosepl of Matthew [from the Bible]. It contains parables [prodigal son, Lazarus] set to music- and at the very end- it contains a passion of the Christ.
From this musical comes on of my favorite songs, "Day by Day". I don't know why- but it always gets my toes tapping and my heart fluttering. I always feel the need to do motions and sing loudly [much to the embarrassment of my family].
Day by day
Day by day
Oh Dear Lord
Three things I pray
To see thee more clearly
Love thee more dearly
Follow thee more nearly
Day by day
Even though these lyrics are from a popular musical and spent time on the Billboard Music charts- I think this song is music for my soul. I mean- who doesn't need these 3 things. And they seem so simply. See-love-follow. How hard is that?
Ok. I know. Hard.
Because it is extremely hard for me. The hardest of those instructions is follow. It is very hard to follow something you can't see. And in the dark at that. God doesn't give us very much info when He asks us to do something. We are to say okay immediately to His prompt and then wait for further instructions. Now I'm a person who likes to know all of the info up front- right away. The older I get- I realize God just doesn't work that way. He likes to tell us what we need to know- when we need to know it.
Today. Everyday. All day.
Day by day.
That is something I am working on very hard this year. Taking things one day at a time. Not looking too far forward and focusing on the future, and not taking care of the present. I am taking this life day by day- and seeing-loving-following my dear Lord.
[thanks Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak for writing a contemporary-amazing-fun take on the gospel of Matthew- it is a musical that I can not only sing and dance with- but worship with]
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
This is one of my FAVORITE musicals of all time [behind Grease of course]. The basic story [for those who haven't seen it or heard of it] is based on the gosepl of Matthew [from the Bible]. It contains parables [prodigal son, Lazarus] set to music- and at the very end- it contains a passion of the Christ.
From this musical comes on of my favorite songs, "Day by Day". I don't know why- but it always gets my toes tapping and my heart fluttering. I always feel the need to do motions and sing loudly [much to the embarrassment of my family].
Day by day
Day by day
Oh Dear Lord
Three things I pray
To see thee more clearly
Love thee more dearly
Follow thee more nearly
Day by day
Even though these lyrics are from a popular musical and spent time on the Billboard Music charts- I think this song is music for my soul. I mean- who doesn't need these 3 things. And they seem so simply. See-love-follow. How hard is that?
Ok. I know. Hard.
Because it is extremely hard for me. The hardest of those instructions is follow. It is very hard to follow something you can't see. And in the dark at that. God doesn't give us very much info when He asks us to do something. We are to say okay immediately to His prompt and then wait for further instructions. Now I'm a person who likes to know all of the info up front- right away. The older I get- I realize God just doesn't work that way. He likes to tell us what we need to know- when we need to know it.
Today. Everyday. All day.
Day by day.
That is something I am working on very hard this year. Taking things one day at a time. Not looking too far forward and focusing on the future, and not taking care of the present. I am taking this life day by day- and seeing-loving-following my dear Lord.
[thanks Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak for writing a contemporary-amazing-fun take on the gospel of Matthew- it is a musical that I can not only sing and dance with- but worship with]
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Restless Mind
I have a super restless mind today. It is running all over the place. To and fro. I have thought about everything. And when I say everything [I mean it].
So far today- [and it's a little after 11am] my mind has contemplated:
[this puppy right here]
So far today- [and it's a little after 11am] my mind has contemplated:
- my cleaning schedule that I haven't tackled it yet
- why is it so cold in my house?
- why does my husband complain so much when it's cold [put on a jacket!]
- why my 2 year old is so incredibly loud?
- why are we tickalish?
- ^ did I just spell tickalish right?
- why is puppy Jack so needy?
[this puppy right here]- why did I get a new puppy?
- how much sleep am I going to miss when I start my second job?
- shopped for Micah's new bedroom furniture [I love Pottery Barn Kids]
- shopped for furniture for my living room
- mentally re-painted my living room again
- oh- and thought of something to blog [day 3 of 3]
I wish my mind wasn't running 100 miles a minute today. I actually wanted to relax [one of my goals for the new year].
Well day 2 of the new year has been great so far [as long as my mind slows down for just a second :)]
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Saturday, January 1, 2011
2011- Welcome Welcome Welcome
Well hello 2011- I'm so glad you're here. Getting to know you is going to be great. And I hope you are ready.
This year- I plan on
This is going to be a great year, not because I said so. But because I will MAKE it happen.
Happy New Year!
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
This year- I plan on
- being a better and more attentive wife/mother
- quit eating and drinking so much crap- my body does not deserve it
- blog more- writing has been my passion and I've let that go by the wayside
- journal more- I've found journaling is the window into my soul
- make myself more of a priority. I can't keep putting myself last- even though it comes naturally
- make a budget- keep said budget- save money
- RELAX more- meditate/pray- it just needs to happen.
This is going to be a great year, not because I said so. But because I will MAKE it happen.
Happy New Year!
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Friday, December 31, 2010
New Year Resolutions
At the end of every year I make a list of things I am hoping to accomplish during the new year. A new start. A time where I can start fresh- and actually get things done. Instead of looking back and feeling guilty for what I did not get done. A time where I can get my priorities straight and get things done. Be proactive.
And this year is no different.
Wait, it is different. This year, instead of like years past, I am actually going to get things done. I am not going to make the list- and let it collect dust. And then at the end of said year, look back at what I didn't accomplish and feel guilty [it's such a viscous cycle].
This year, I am going to do it. Make a list of things I can actually accomplish, and get them done [correction: git er done].
And high on that list- is keeping up with my blog. I will start with a couple of days a week- and hopefully will get into a routine- where I blog 5-6 out of 7 days. I think I can do it [ I can do it- not I think].
Writing used to be such a passion of mine- and I let that go by the wayside when I had kids- and got a life outside of myself. My time to write will be mine. And I will not let that go. Not this year.
I am going balls to the wall this year. 2011 better be ready for me. I am not going to let the past get me down. I am shedding the past [just like the pounds I'm hoping to shed]. 2011- is going to bring a new me. 26. Mature. Driven. Goal-oriented. Family-focused. I am going to do it [bring it on].
Happy New Year to all of you. Hope you are blessed with patience, prosperity, love and lots of smiles and laughter. The only way it can be a good year, is if you make it that way.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
And this year is no different.
Wait, it is different. This year, instead of like years past, I am actually going to get things done. I am not going to make the list- and let it collect dust. And then at the end of said year, look back at what I didn't accomplish and feel guilty [it's such a viscous cycle].
This year, I am going to do it. Make a list of things I can actually accomplish, and get them done [correction: git er done].
And high on that list- is keeping up with my blog. I will start with a couple of days a week- and hopefully will get into a routine- where I blog 5-6 out of 7 days. I think I can do it [ I can do it- not I think].
Writing used to be such a passion of mine- and I let that go by the wayside when I had kids- and got a life outside of myself. My time to write will be mine. And I will not let that go. Not this year.
I am going balls to the wall this year. 2011 better be ready for me. I am not going to let the past get me down. I am shedding the past [just like the pounds I'm hoping to shed]. 2011- is going to bring a new me. 26. Mature. Driven. Goal-oriented. Family-focused. I am going to do it [bring it on].
Happy New Year to all of you. Hope you are blessed with patience, prosperity, love and lots of smiles and laughter. The only way it can be a good year, is if you make it that way.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Jealous
"Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, he who seeks finds and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." Matthew 7: 7-9
So I got a new car. Okay, when I say new, I truly mean, new to me. Traded in my van for a 2004 Grand Prix GTP. I had a Grand Prix last year- but Travis got into a car accident last July and it was totaled. I loved that car. There was just something about it. After the car got totaled, we got the van as a replacement. I'm not saying that I didn't like the van- it served its purpose, but my heart was always set on a car. I've been shopping in my mind for a new car since I got it. Well, there was this car. Name her Peaches if you will. And she stole my heart. She's maroon, like Stella (my old one). She's a Grand Prix, like Stella. And she's beautiful like Stella. And she's m i n e!
So- why is this titled jealous? Because I'm tired of people assuming things about me. I'm tired of people thinking that I don't struggle like everyone else? Oh but I do. Struggle a lot. But let me tell you. I work for what I have. I struggle for what I have. But on top of all of that, I pray for what I want. I ask- I seek- I knock. And sometimes I receive. Other times I don't. Sometimes the door is opened- and other times it isn't. Sometimes I find what I am looking for- and other times it's hidden far away. But the point is- I ask. And I pray- hard. I am disappointed when I don't get what I think I should. And rejoice when blessings come my way. I love the relationship I have with God and can't wait to see the blessings that He has in store for me down the road. Ask. Seek. Knock. And have faith that He knows what is the best thing for you. When He says no, that may be because something greater will happen, or that it wasn't the best thing for you at the time. If you just put it all in His hands, then you can be guaranteed that the best things in you life will happen. But you have to first put it in His hands, then leave it there.
(And don't be jealous- just ask for your own blessings)
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
So I got a new car. Okay, when I say new, I truly mean, new to me. Traded in my van for a 2004 Grand Prix GTP. I had a Grand Prix last year- but Travis got into a car accident last July and it was totaled. I loved that car. There was just something about it. After the car got totaled, we got the van as a replacement. I'm not saying that I didn't like the van- it served its purpose, but my heart was always set on a car. I've been shopping in my mind for a new car since I got it. Well, there was this car. Name her Peaches if you will. And she stole my heart. She's maroon, like Stella (my old one). She's a Grand Prix, like Stella. And she's beautiful like Stella. And she's m i n e!
So- why is this titled jealous? Because I'm tired of people assuming things about me. I'm tired of people thinking that I don't struggle like everyone else? Oh but I do. Struggle a lot. But let me tell you. I work for what I have. I struggle for what I have. But on top of all of that, I pray for what I want. I ask- I seek- I knock. And sometimes I receive. Other times I don't. Sometimes the door is opened- and other times it isn't. Sometimes I find what I am looking for- and other times it's hidden far away. But the point is- I ask. And I pray- hard. I am disappointed when I don't get what I think I should. And rejoice when blessings come my way. I love the relationship I have with God and can't wait to see the blessings that He has in store for me down the road. Ask. Seek. Knock. And have faith that He knows what is the best thing for you. When He says no, that may be because something greater will happen, or that it wasn't the best thing for you at the time. If you just put it all in His hands, then you can be guaranteed that the best things in you life will happen. But you have to first put it in His hands, then leave it there.
(And don't be jealous- just ask for your own blessings)
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Peace in the Middle of Chaos
So I was driving home from work Wednesday- looking for my favorite radio station K-Love. It's a great listener supported Christian radio station that I have just fallen in love with. They play the best music, and the DJs are great too! Any-who, the tower for K-Love is in Lexington which means that the reception in Louisville is horrible- very full of static and hard to understand anything. And sometimes, I would hear another radio station that's signal was stronger then K-Loves. Finally- the closer to home I got, the better the signal was, and I got to finally hear my fabulous K-Love!
As I was driving- listening to the static- and the random stations that would drift in and out, I got to thinking. How much like life that really was. We have static. We have conflicting messages coming in and out of our lives. Do this and don't do that. Eat this- don't eat that. It seems that the more we hear- the more like static our lives become. And we become blind to it. We just tune out and stop listening. Until- finally, through that static comes a loud voice. Strong. Calm. Soothing. Jesus. He comes and speaks to us. Calms the static in our lives. The peace in the middle of chaos. He keeps us still, when we want to be running free. He keeps us sane- when we want to be crazy. It is so comforting to know that when we need someone to talk to, that He's there with no questions or any judgements. He's the one we can turn over all of our worries to- and know that our needs will be taken care of. He is the "Great I am" and He's awesome.
"Thank you God for being that calm in our lives. Thank you for speaking to us through all of the static. And making your voice loud and clear. Keep speaking to us when even when we don't want to listen. You are so amazing!"
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
As I was driving- listening to the static- and the random stations that would drift in and out, I got to thinking. How much like life that really was. We have static. We have conflicting messages coming in and out of our lives. Do this and don't do that. Eat this- don't eat that. It seems that the more we hear- the more like static our lives become. And we become blind to it. We just tune out and stop listening. Until- finally, through that static comes a loud voice. Strong. Calm. Soothing. Jesus. He comes and speaks to us. Calms the static in our lives. The peace in the middle of chaos. He keeps us still, when we want to be running free. He keeps us sane- when we want to be crazy. It is so comforting to know that when we need someone to talk to, that He's there with no questions or any judgements. He's the one we can turn over all of our worries to- and know that our needs will be taken care of. He is the "Great I am" and He's awesome.
"Thank you God for being that calm in our lives. Thank you for speaking to us through all of the static. And making your voice loud and clear. Keep speaking to us when even when we don't want to listen. You are so amazing!"
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Pink, Sparkly Fingernails
So last night, after making-eating-and cleaning up dinner with my 2 kiddos- Micah and Caleb (5 and 2 respectively), I decided, why not paint Micah's nails? She is very much a girly girl. Pink room. Hannah Montana. Jewelry. Dresses. She is me- in mini form. While I don't mind a romp in the mud (just don't get it in my hair!), I really love all things girl. Pink is my favorite color. I love getting my nails done. I count down the days until my next hair appointment. Makeup makes me feel complete- and it seems that I have passed that down to my princess, which just excites me to no end. Now I have someone to shop with- and go and get pedicures with. Someone to buy jewelry for and oooh and ahh over purses with. Ahhh- I've been so blessed. So truly blessed, because I have this amazing little girly girl . Painting her nails last night made me realize how truly lucky I am- that I have someone I can share so much with. Pink. Sparkly. Just like Mommy's. She just beamed from ear to ear after I got done. And hugged my neck "Thanks Mommy".
Just like Mommy. Just like Daddy. Just like Grandma or Grandpa. I pray that we all take a good, hard look at ourselves. Take a long look in the mirror. Are you the person you want your child to grow up and be like? If your child says- I want to be just like you, do you cringe or are you happy? Would you like for them to mimic your actions and words? Or would you be ashamed if they spoke and act like you? Are you modeling behavior that is Christ-like? This is a big challenge for me at times. I find myself saying things that I would be horrified if my children repeated. I find myself getting angry at the people in front of me in traffic, when I could just be calm and patient. I find myself yelling when I get frustrated. That's a big one. It took a lot of soul searching and praying to realize- that the reason why my children yell so much at me- is because I do a lot of yelling! I'm telling you- God has truly smacked me over the head in the last few weeks about my behavior in front of my children. I'm not a bad parent- there are just a lot of things that I need to work on. Such as- be more involved in my church. Stop talking the talk- and actually walking the walk. Staying calm- when under pressure. Praying more- in front of my children. Reading my Bible more. Saying kinder words to people. Giving back more to my community. My children are going to do what I do- not as I say (well sometimes, they'll pick that up too!) and I want them to be productive, God fearing/loving members of society- but first I need to be that person.
Just like my Daddy- God the Father- so that I can be proud when my children say- Just like my Mommy.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Monday, August 30, 2010
Set Apart
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart, I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." Jeremiah 1:5
God spoke these words to Jeremiah when he was but only a child. He gave Jeremiah the words to speak and showed Jeremiah the people to talk to. God appointed Jeremiah. God knew Jeremiah before he was even born. HOW AMAZING! How amazing that God knew us before we were even born. Before we were even formed. He knew us in and out. The number of hairs on our head. The color of our eyes. The color of our skin- and most importantly- our heart. He wanted us before we had even thought of needing Him. That's amazing to me- that He wants me, and that He's wanted me forever.
God has set us apart, just like He did Jeremiah. He has a great plan for each and every one of us. A story line. A path for us to walk. How amazing. That He cares so much for us, that He has a plan. We should live every day in just that way. Set apart. Walking, talking and living like He wants us to. We should be the one that is set apart- the one that gives when others don't want to. The one that stands when everyone else is sitting. The one that He has made us to be. Just open your heart, your eyesm your ears and your mind (and close your lips) and hear what God has to say to us. What plans He has set before us. Then buckle up and enjoy the ride- because you are His chosen one. Set apart.
Thank you Lord for setting us apart. For having a plan for each and every one of us. For forming us in your image, and wanting us as much as we need you. Thank you Lord for loving us even when we don't want to love you and being patient, much as a mother is with her child. Watch over us this week, and open our eyes, ears, and heart to hear and see You and Your plan. Amen.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
God spoke these words to Jeremiah when he was but only a child. He gave Jeremiah the words to speak and showed Jeremiah the people to talk to. God appointed Jeremiah. God knew Jeremiah before he was even born. HOW AMAZING! How amazing that God knew us before we were even born. Before we were even formed. He knew us in and out. The number of hairs on our head. The color of our eyes. The color of our skin- and most importantly- our heart. He wanted us before we had even thought of needing Him. That's amazing to me- that He wants me, and that He's wanted me forever.
God has set us apart, just like He did Jeremiah. He has a great plan for each and every one of us. A story line. A path for us to walk. How amazing. That He cares so much for us, that He has a plan. We should live every day in just that way. Set apart. Walking, talking and living like He wants us to. We should be the one that is set apart- the one that gives when others don't want to. The one that stands when everyone else is sitting. The one that He has made us to be. Just open your heart, your eyesm your ears and your mind (and close your lips) and hear what God has to say to us. What plans He has set before us. Then buckle up and enjoy the ride- because you are His chosen one. Set apart.
Thank you Lord for setting us apart. For having a plan for each and every one of us. For forming us in your image, and wanting us as much as we need you. Thank you Lord for loving us even when we don't want to love you and being patient, much as a mother is with her child. Watch over us this week, and open our eyes, ears, and heart to hear and see You and Your plan. Amen.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Uncommon
I can't take full credit for this topic of choice for the day. I actually read it on another blog that I found (http://www.incourage.me/) - but decided that it was a good topic and wanted to put my spin on it.
Too many times in life are we common. We don't want to create a problem so we keep our mouths shut. We don't want to be different, so we walk away. We don't want to be labeled, so we don't let our true selves shine. But you know what- I'm tired of living that way! I don't want to be common any longer. Let me be labeled. Let me be the loud mouth in the front row. Let me be that Christian woman. The one that doesn't do wild and crazy things. Let me be different. Let me be uncommon.
I'm not afaid of my faith I will tell anyone that I'm a proud Chrisitan and think that God is awesome. I'm not afraid to pray before meals in public. And I'm not afraid to tell people about my life with Him. I just pray that I can pass that strength in my faith to my children, especially Micah. As a girl she has an uphill battle to deal with in the first place. Society places a lot of stigmas and rules on little girls. She can't be- because she's a girl. She can't like- because she's a girl. She can't say- because she's a girl. But I refuse to have her live life in that way. She CAN, do anything. Anything in this world.
I pray that my daughter grows up to be a strong, faithful and passionate person. I pray that she remembers that she is beautiful- inside and out, no matter what anyone tells her. That, the only opinion in this world that matters is the opinion of God. And that as long as she delights Him, then that's all that matters. No one else matters when it comes to that. I pray that she decides to step out of the mold. Be smart. And don't be afraid to show it. Be daring. Be courageous. I pray that she keeps herself pure until the day that she is married, that no one pressures her to do otherwise. And above all of that, I pray that she follows Him as closely as she can, and not be afraid to share her love for Him with others.
Above all of that, I pray that I can guide her the best way I know how. I pray that I continue to be strong and a great example to her. I pray that the Lord continues to give me the wisdom to be a great mother and role model- and down the road- her friend. I pray that I'm not afraid to show Micah that it's okay to be uncommon. And that she chooses to be too.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Too many times in life are we common. We don't want to create a problem so we keep our mouths shut. We don't want to be different, so we walk away. We don't want to be labeled, so we don't let our true selves shine. But you know what- I'm tired of living that way! I don't want to be common any longer. Let me be labeled. Let me be the loud mouth in the front row. Let me be that Christian woman. The one that doesn't do wild and crazy things. Let me be different. Let me be uncommon.
I'm not afaid of my faith I will tell anyone that I'm a proud Chrisitan and think that God is awesome. I'm not afraid to pray before meals in public. And I'm not afraid to tell people about my life with Him. I just pray that I can pass that strength in my faith to my children, especially Micah. As a girl she has an uphill battle to deal with in the first place. Society places a lot of stigmas and rules on little girls. She can't be- because she's a girl. She can't like- because she's a girl. She can't say- because she's a girl. But I refuse to have her live life in that way. She CAN, do anything. Anything in this world.
I pray that my daughter grows up to be a strong, faithful and passionate person. I pray that she remembers that she is beautiful- inside and out, no matter what anyone tells her. That, the only opinion in this world that matters is the opinion of God. And that as long as she delights Him, then that's all that matters. No one else matters when it comes to that. I pray that she decides to step out of the mold. Be smart. And don't be afraid to show it. Be daring. Be courageous. I pray that she keeps herself pure until the day that she is married, that no one pressures her to do otherwise. And above all of that, I pray that she follows Him as closely as she can, and not be afraid to share her love for Him with others.
Above all of that, I pray that I can guide her the best way I know how. I pray that I continue to be strong and a great example to her. I pray that the Lord continues to give me the wisdom to be a great mother and role model- and down the road- her friend. I pray that I'm not afraid to show Micah that it's okay to be uncommon. And that she chooses to be too.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Monday, June 21, 2010
They always say- evey dog has its day
And this time it was my day. I'm not calling myself a dog- but by gosh I'm glad I finally got my chance. My dad always told me- "Sometimes you are the windshield, and sometimes you are the bug". For the last couple of years, I've felt like I was the bug. Getting splattered everywhere I turned. I couldn't catch a break to save my life. It seemed that everytime I got one step ahead- I would be pushed back 3 steps. 3 big steps. Whether it was physically or emotionally. At home or at school. Money or relationships, I never felt like I was getting anywhere. But for once, in a very long time, I feel accomplished. And that's a fantastic feeling.
I am finally doing what I love to do. And I ♥ respiratory. It truly is my passion. I could spend hours learning about new things, then turning around and sharing that knowledge with others. And guess what? That's what I get to do. I am going to be spending my days giving my patients the best customer service I know how to. I am going to make sure that by the end of our time together, my patients know all about their machines or oxygen. I refuse to have my patients go home and feel like they have no idea what's going on. I could only imagine how scary that is. And all too often it is happening. But with the help of my oh so awesome bosses, we are going to change the game. We are going to be the change we want to see in the world.
God has been so awesome to my family in the last 2 years of me being in school. I'm not sure many of you understand how tough it got. I didn't work (except for temporarily over the summer). I went to school full time, and then when I got home, I studied. I felt like I never saw my family. Travis and I went through some hard times financially and relationship wise, but we never gave up hope. We never stopped believing that the good was going to come. All we had to do was be patient and work hard for it. And we did. We were patient. We prayed....a lot. We cryed. And yelled. We broke up. And got back together. We doubted. But finally...yes finally. We made it. I got a great job. We don't have to struggle as hard as before. We can now finally enjoy our blessings. Give to our babies. We made it. Yes, God we made it.
I'm so glad it was this old dogs turn for the sun to shine, I'm not sure how much more rain I was going to be able to take.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
I am finally doing what I love to do. And I ♥ respiratory. It truly is my passion. I could spend hours learning about new things, then turning around and sharing that knowledge with others. And guess what? That's what I get to do. I am going to be spending my days giving my patients the best customer service I know how to. I am going to make sure that by the end of our time together, my patients know all about their machines or oxygen. I refuse to have my patients go home and feel like they have no idea what's going on. I could only imagine how scary that is. And all too often it is happening. But with the help of my oh so awesome bosses, we are going to change the game. We are going to be the change we want to see in the world
God has been so awesome to my family in the last 2 years of me being in school. I'm not sure many of you understand how tough it got. I didn't work (except for temporarily over the summer). I went to school full time, and then when I got home, I studied. I felt like I never saw my family. Travis and I went through some hard times financially and relationship wise, but we never gave up hope. We never stopped believing that the good was going to come. All we had to do was be patient and work hard for it. And we did. We were patient. We prayed....a lot. We cryed. And yelled. We broke up. And got back together. We doubted. But finally...yes finally. We made it. I got a great job. We don't have to struggle as hard as before. We can now finally enjoy our blessings. Give to our babies. We made it. Yes, God we made it.
I'm so glad it was this old dogs turn for the sun to shine, I'm not sure how much more rain I was going to be able to take.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Sunday, June 20, 2010
To my darling husband- Happy Father's Day
Today is Father's Day. The one day a year that we make it a point to say to the father figures in our lives, "Happy Father's Day". But ya know what? Every day in my house should be like Father's Day. Because my children have the best father in the world. And I am blessed to be married to their father. Travis is the most amazing person I know. He is funny. Smart. Caring. Loving. He's a great cook. And a great cuddler. He took Micah and I in when he didn't have too. He has always worked hard to give his family the best and I know he'll continue to do so until he can't anymore. And I need to always remember to tell him "thank you" for everything that he does. There are so many children in this world that don't have a father figure. There are so many women in this world who have to be both parents. And I am so blessed that I don't have to do it all alone and that my children have a hero they can look up to.
Thank you God for blessing me with Travis. Thank for blessing my children with the most amazing Daddy. I am so glad that he's in my life, I wouldn't know what to do without him. He's truly my hero. Thanks Travis for being amazing.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
Thank you God for blessing me with Travis. Thank for blessing my children with the most amazing Daddy. I am so glad that he's in my life, I wouldn't know what to do without him. He's truly my hero. Thanks Travis for being amazing.
Faithfully Ever After- Kelly
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