Mountains, Love, and a Flare for the Dramatic

iPhone Photos

2011-11-26T08:36:00.006-06:00

Some photos from the past few weeks. Forgive the poor guality!

How Duke and Moby spent most of the move.

More pictures of our beautiful shower are coming soon.

Our super laid back and perfect Thanksgiving with my Dad.
Thankful to the moon and back for these two amazing men.

Oh yeah, I have a blog.

2011-11-25T11:42:00.004-06:00

After nearly six weeks of Ray living in Oklahoma working and me staying in Texas (and traveling to OK on the weekends), we finally closed on our house in Shawnee and moved in last Saturday!
The last two months have been long, short and crazy all at the same time.
We feel so incredibly blessed to be here in Shawnee, at First Baptist and in our own home.
I have never been so loved on and cared for by a congregation. Our church family without a doubt has the spiritual gift of hospitality and love.

The house is almost completely in order, minus Abigail's room, which I hope to have finished in the next week or so. It's hard to believe that we are a mere 5 weeks from meeting Abby.
I'll be surprised if she makes it that long though.
Thus far I've gained 23 pounds and it's possible she's all 23 pounds!
Not really, but my short torso has little-to-no room left and it's quite clear she's getting very uncomfortable.

Ready to pop?
I vote yes.

I hope to get pictures of the house and incredible shower the ladies of
FBC blessed us with up soon.

We truly have so much to be thankful for.
It's overwhelming.

Leaving church

2011-09-13T07:42:00.004-05:00

You wouldn't think much was going on, due to the horrendous lack of blog

posts, but that is oh so untrue.

Over the last several months we have been walking through what can only be described as the most emotionally bipolar season of ministry; leaving church.

Mertens, Texas, a town of 125 (we lost about 25 elderly in the last census, as they were sure the government was going to use the information to spy on them). How in the world can you fall so deeply in love with a town of 125? I'm not sure, but it happened. I love this place. It's my home. It's the place where Ray and I spent the first three years of our new life together, figuring each other out and learning how to be married. It's the place where we've endured some of the hardest and most sorrowful days of our life.

It's the place where we were molded into ministers.

It's our home.

We knew this day would come.

My middle sister, Melissa, is a military wife. She knew what she was getting into. She understood that she was forfeiting the right, the choice and the freedom to decide where she lives and when she moves. She has a piece of art work hanging near her front door that reads,

"Home is where the Army sends us."

It's the same.

We knew that, we understood.

Following a call into vocational church ministry you forfeit choosing how, when and where you will go. You listen for the voice of God and watch for his direction and leading. And then, you go where God says go, trusting.

Sunday, September 11th, Ray was overwhelmingly and with great excitement called as pastor of First Baptist Church Shawnee, Oklahoma. In the church's 120 year history, no incoming pastor has ever received such a high vote (we're talking 99.7ish% which, non-baptist friends, is huge).

This process has been long and emotional. When we live life together with people so closely and you can't tell them this massive thing that's in the making, it's painful. Half the time you want to be excited, the other half you're sad and all the while you feel like you're cheating on your church. Sounds odd, but it's true. You feel like you're cheating on them and feel sick about the break-up you know is in the near future.

Faith.

Without complete faith that this is where God is leading us, and trusting that God will take care of all the details (i.e. finding a home), I'm positive this move would be impossible. It dawned on me a few weeks ago that I've lived in the same 3 hour radius for the last 22 years. My parents have just moved back home (about 45 mins from us), and I'm quickly approaching the 3rd trimester of our first successful pregnancy and we're moving?! To Oklahoma????? And here I've been trying in vain to get us to Colorado or San Francisco.

Nevertheless, God has been faithful to fill me with unending and very unsarah-like peace through this process. Doors have not merely opened, but have been blown down and cleared away so that we might not have any confusion concerning if we should walk through them or not. It is clear that God has been preparing Shawnee for a very new and different kind of pastor (With a history of older men with PHDs, a 27 year old and his 25 year old wife is quite daring). Although I do not know the plans God has for Mertens, I trust that just as God has been preparing us to leave, God has been readying someone else to come. We spent the majority of the day yesterday in people's homes and offices and on the side of a dirt road as a massive fire was put out, sharing the news. Not surprisingly we were overwhelmed with love and support. The people of Mertens continue to be so good to us.

So here we go. I'm gonna be an Okie.

(I'll be 29 weeks pregnant our first Sunday)

Time to pack.

September 6, 2008

2011-09-06T07:12:00.009-05:00

Aside from the decision to follow Christ,

3 years ago today,

I made the best decision of my life.

I married this guy.

Ray,

I promise to devote myself to prayer, to fix my eyes on Jesus and to love you with a love that is not self-seking, easily angered, and keeps no record of wrongs.

I will clothe myself with compassion, patience, kindness, humility and gentleness.

My love will always protect, always trust, always hope and always persevere.

I promise to forgive and to forbear.

This I promise, that our marriage may be a picture of the Love of Jesus.

I pledge you my faithfulness.

Finally . . .

2011-09-05T11:29:00.003-05:00

We (of course) had a name picked out for a boy.

After months of dreaming, playing around with a hundred different possibilities, throwing those out and starting over again.

After much thought,

Abigail Hope Miller

will be joining our family around the New Year.

It's kind of a interesting story, how we came about her name. In the middle of the night about 7 weeks ago, during one of my (many) nightly trips to the loo, I was talking to her and out of no where called her Abigail. I was pretty shocked, considering that name was no where on our radar and to be quite honest, I didn't really like it. But after that incident, every time I spoke to her in my head, Abigail just came flying out of my thoughts. Slowly we began to like it and eventually fell in love with it.

Ray came up with Hope. We had been kicking around grace or joy, but were having a hard time feeling great about either. While studying for his sermon, the theme of Hope kept coming up. Ray began to think back on our journey and how the power of Hope has gotten us here, 23 weeks pregnant. He ran to house and said " how about Abigail Hope?"

Of course.

Hope.

The theme of our journey to parenthood.

Abigail Hope.

Abigail Hope, though our prayers for you are endless, our deepest prayer, desire and hope for you is that you may know the love of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

A Love that has no bounds.

We look forward to the future with ceaseless hope.

Lord, have mercy

2011-08-04T17:51:00.004-05:00

Nancy Lindborg, an official with the U.S. government aid arm, told a congressional committee in Washington on Wednesday that the U.S. estimates that more than 29,000 children under the age of 5 have died in the last 90 days in southern Somalia.

As I sit down to dinner with my husband tonight, may I truly give praise and thanks to God for blessings I take for granted. Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy.

It's aaaaaaaaaaaa. . . . . .

2011-07-19T21:00:00.003-05:00

GIRL!!!!!

We are so stinkin' excited and feel incredibly blessed.

Quick! You don't have much time!

2011-07-18T18:56:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow we find out if baby Miller is a Boy or Girl!!!!!

It's been very exciting to hear what people in our community are thinking

(most are voting boy).

Sooo cast your vote!

And we will let you know tomorrow after the party!

Greater

2011-06-26T17:33:00.011-05:00

Our God is greater

Our God is stronger

God you are higher than any other

Our God is Healer

Awesome and power

Our God, Our God.

As these words were sung with abandon and passion this morning at church, my heart was overwhelmed with joy, thankfulness, humility and gratitude. What a beautiful message and reminder. The song continues on saying:

And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us?

And if our God is with us, then what can stand against?

And if our God is for us then who could ever stop us?

And if our God is with us, then what can stand against?

What can stand against?

Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine life would bring me and Ray on such a journey. Although our first 2 1/2 years marriage have brought some of the most difficult and painful experiences we have ever walked through, the fires have always died and our God has always been faithful to bring healing and life from wounds and death. Our journey has not only bonded us as friends and partners in a powerful way, it has (more importantly) brought us to our knees at the throne of God. We have individually and as a couple come to know and trust God in a more honest and profound way than we ever thought possible.

Through our journey, we have had moments in which we were certain the weight of pain would surely crush and kill us. But our God is greater, stronger, healer, awesome and power. God did not abandon us to darkness and pain. God did not allow flames to consume us or the water overtake us. God suffered along side of us and now has quite literally made beauty from ashes and brought life from death.

Today we, with unending humility and even more gratefulness, begin the celebration of the passing of the first trimester and the beginning of the second.

Our journey to this day has forever impacted how we view the life of this little one. He/She is a gift from God and is God's alone.

As the year continues on and the season Advent comes, we will be waiting to celebrate not only the arrival of our savior but also the long awaited arrival of our son (or daughter).

To God be all the glory and praise.

Life Can Be Hard . . .

2011-06-25T11:28:00.005-05:00

. . . hasn't been lately.

Counting Down

2011-06-04T07:22:00.005-05:00

In 10 days, I'll be headed here:

To spend TWO weeks with this cute pregnant lady:

Can't. Wait.

Happy Birthday!

2011-05-28T11:54:00.004-05:00

A very big Happy Birthday to my precious brother, Tim on this Memorial Day Weekend.

Tim, we love you greatly and are so thankful for you.

You are truly a great man of God and a fearless follower of Christ.

We know the men and women you care for in Afghanistan

deeply appreciate your service to them.

Thank you for serving our country with such courage and unwavering loyalty.

We love you. We miss you.

Come home soon.

Prayer

2011-04-16T15:23:00.004-05:00

Please pray for my brother Tim, as he leaves tomorrow for Afghanistan.

He will be gone for an entire year.

While he's away, my beautiful sister will be growing and giving birth to their first child.

May God protect all who serve and be near to the families trying to press on while they're away.

Food for thought.

2011-04-07T18:21:00.002-05:00

Hoping these both ruin and enlighten your day in the best possible way.

Birthday Explosion

2011-04-03T13:48:00.007-05:00

A very Happy Birthday to my brother, Ryan!

Soon after Ryan's, the beautiful girl in his arms, Ms. Anniston, will be turning 2 years old!

One of my most favorite people in the world, and arguably one of best moms ever, will be celebrating her birthday tomorrow.

Happy Birthday sweet friend, you are loved.

This handsome man will be 27 next monday.

I round out the month o' brithdays the day before this years' celebration of Easter.

BUT

The most important birthday is coming at the end of October/ early November to these precious people . . .

That's right, we've got a niece or (I think) nephew on the way and I personally could not be more stinkin' excited.

Celiac Celebration!

2011-03-27T21:27:00.002-05:00

This month marks one year of being fully and 100% gluten free! I cannot express how thankful we have been for my diagnosis and the amazing affect it has had in mine and Ray's life. So, in celebration of this one year anniversary here is a list of some of the greatest Celiac resources I have found:

Books~

Celiac Disease: A hidden Epidemic

The Gluten-Free Bible

Wheat free Worry Free

1,000 Gluten-Free Recipes

Babycakes

Cooking for Isaiah

Magazine - Living Without

Websites:

http://www.cookitallergyfree.com/

http://www.glutenfreeda.com/

http://gluten-free-blog.blogspot.com/

http://glutenfreegirl.com/

http://simplygluten-free.com/

http://www.simplysugarandglutenfree.com/

http://www.jensglutenfreeblog.com/mission/

http://www.glutenfreeforgood.com/blog/

Happy Reading!

Thirsty Thursday

2011-03-24T10:19:00.006-05:00

Water: Weighty and Wanting By: Sarah Chisolm Miller

While it is easily seen that America is battling a very serious epidemic of obesity, another war is raging that is not so easily seen, known or addressed: the epidemic of chronic dehydration.

Though this may seem absurd at first, let’s review the quick facts.

· Water composes 70% of an adult body

· Your lungs and heart are 70.9% water

· Your muscles are 75% water

· Your liver, 75.3% water

· Your spleen, 77% water

· Most importantly, your brain is a whopping 83% water

The average adult eliminates an estimated 6 lbs. (2.5 liters) of water, daily! As we lose and eliminate this water through breathing, sweating, and trips to the restroom, we must be working to replenish the eliminated. Why? So glad you asked!!

Water plays an integral role in all biological processes and events. Without the appropriate amount of water, the systems in our body cannot work properly, which leads to the breakdown of our health.

Did you know . . .

· Water is the body’s main source of energy?

· Water generates electrical energy for our 1 trillion+ cells?

· Water transports and circulates our blood cells?

· Water is the glue that binds solid parts of the cell together?

· Water prevents damage to our DNA, meaning less disease?

· Water supercharges the power of our immune system?

· Water is used to transport all substances in the body?

· Water increases the body’s ability to absorb nutrients?

· Water enables our body to remove toxic waste?

(for a more comprehensive list, read Dr. F. Batmanghelidj’s Water: For healing, for health, for life)

Possible signs of dehydration

· Feeling thirsty! Careful, the feeling of thirst may be interpreted as hunger. Feeling hungry? Drink at least 8-ounces of water first, wait a few minutes and see if you are truly hungry or were actually thirsty.

· Fatigue without reason

· Feeling flushed

· Feeling unreasonably short-tempered

· Feeling anxious

· Feeling depressed

· Disturbed sleep

· Short attention span

· Quickly becoming angry

· Unreasonable impatience

· Craving for manufactured beverages

(source: Dr. F. Batmanghelidj’s Water: For healing, for health, for life)

Water’s role in preventing and healing illness

· Water aids in reducing rheumatoid pain in the joints.

· Water plays a major role in preventing constipation.

· Water helps to reduce the risks of heart attack and stroke.

· Water prevents clogging of arteries in the heart and brain.

· Water enables our body to cool and heat itself.

· Water has the ability to increase your attention span.

· Water helps reduce stress, anxiety and depression.

· Water gives our brain the power to think!

· Water reduces fatigue.

· Water brings restoration to sleep rhythms.

· Water is preventative in childhood ADHD.

· Water makes the skin smooth and fight the aging of skin.

· Water helps to prevent glaucoma.

· Water reduces pain associated with PMS.

· Dehydration causes sex hormone production to decrease.

· Drinking water regularly and in the proper amounts significantly aids in weight loss (flushes out all those nasty toxins)!

· Increasing your intake of water helps separate the sensations of thirst and hunger.

· Drinking water can help reduce the occurrence of morning sickness during pregnancy.

· Water helps prevent memory loss as we age.

· Water helps to reduce addictive urges

Suggestions for increasing your intake of water

· Upon rising (after greeting the new day with joy and visiting the restroom), immediately drink at least 8 ounces of water (drink up to a liter or two if you’d like/can) before consuming any food or other beverages. This will refresh your organs and wake up your body, as well as give you an extra boost of energy to start the day.

· Go through the day and simply forget to drink water? Set up a schedule and allocate specific times in your day as water breaks.

· Not around an area where water is always accessible? Prepare the water you’d like to drink before hand and take it with you. Or, like me, purchase a BPA free water bottle and make it your newest appendage (meaning, carry it with you everywhere, all the time)!

· Help yourself establish the habit for drinking just like hand washing. Every time you visit the restroom, wash your hands then go have a glass of water.

· Competitive? Set up a friendly competition with your spouse or roommate. See who can consistently drink 2.5 liters (the recommended daily amount according to the World Health Organization) of water a day for one week. The winner can receive a new water bottle or gift card to your local health foods store. You can also take this competition to the work place and help improve the health and working environment of everyone in your office!

(For more ideas on increasing your water consumption, refer to Christopher Vasey’s The Water Prescription: For health, Vitality and Rejuvenation)

Take a day or two and record everything you eat and drink. How much water are you replenishing your system with? Once you begin consuming the appropriate amount of water you will notice a difference in many areas of you life, especially with your nutrition. As your body is properly flushing out toxins and keeping your digestive juices at proper levels, your intestinal tract will be able to receive the nutrients you are consuming. Also, by consuming a good amount of water, you will stop eating excess food that is not needed, which can lead to weight loss. Whatever your reason or approach, drink water! It truly holds the power to heal.

Who's your best friend?

2011-03-16T17:37:00.004-05:00

Ask her that,

And she'll say, "uncle ray ray!!"

Incredible father in the making?

I vote, yes.

Project Restoration

2011-03-13T22:27:00.011-05:00

A sweet sweet blessing best friends late nights laughter hot tubs road trip
soulful conversations good wine building fences new church perfect biscuits
picnics good books fresh juice stillness beautiful mountains crystals
running new dogs singing hymns great gf food rest meditation b&b
scripture dark clear nights journaling tears surrender
horses hiking Santa Fe joy thanksgiving family prayer movies dancing
worship PEACE

I promise we didn't bring the dog to worship

Let's be honest

2011-03-12T10:37:00.006-06:00

I've been avoiding you.

Which is such a shame, considering I now have such a beautiful blog to write on (thanks again, Lo).

I have so much to say, but when I attempt to form these thoughts into words, it turns out I don't know how.

We had an amazing, incredible and absolutely perfect vacation. Some of the most precious moments I have ever experienced with my best friend and God happened that week.

And then Thursday came.

And we found out our friend, Clint Dobson, had died.

Not just died, but had been murdered.

Not just murdered, but brutally murdered.

We woke up on Wednesday, sick with anxiety, and headed to Clint's funeral. His celebration of life. The celebration of a life that is still living because it is still powerfully impacting others and pointing them to Jesus.

The week before we left on vacation Ray preached the funeral of a very young man, in his early twenties, who was also killed. The events that led to his man's death deeply shook our entire county.

I know the grass and trees are whispering that spring has arrived, but I find myself stumbling through a season of death.

The past ten days have emotionally, spiritually and physically twisted me in circles and rung me out. I have never found myself more confused by God's actions (or lack there of), God's interaction with the world God loves so deeply. I have had thousands of questions; though, if I'm honest, I'm not sure I want the answers.

Yet, the truths of God remain mighty and steadfast and the Word of God continues to speak life into death, as the community of God's people grasp onto one another and stumble our way through this dark night of the soul to the throne of light and the conqueror of death.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its water roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. There is a rive whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most high dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts. The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Come and see the works of the Lord, the desolations he has brought on the earth; he breaks wars cease to the the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire. Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Psalm 46

May you feel the nearness of God as you make your way to the cross this Lenten season.

grace and peace, to you.

God still Reigns

2011-03-04T21:43:00.004-06:00

First: Hugh thanks to lauren for giving my space here some much much needed love.

Second: Ray and I just got home from a deeply restorative week,

which I'll post more on soon.

Third: (And most importantly) Yesterday we were shocked and heartbroken to learn of the death of pastor and friend of Ray's, Clint Dobson. We are mourning alongside all our friends and family in Christ at North Pointe and FBC Arlington. Please consider joining us as we pray for healing and peace, especially for Clint's beautiful wife, Laura.

No matter what tomorrow brings, may we still remember that God still reigns.

facelift time!

2011-03-02T15:13:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone, this is Sarah's friend, Lauren :). While Sarah and Ray have skipped town to get some much deserved R&R, I have hijacked Sarah's blog to make a few facelifts so that this blog does justice to the beautiful words Sarah shares on it. So, if you could pardon the dust, I'd be very thankful!

Have a great day!

How can you say that?

2011-02-06T23:12:00.004-06:00

I met a woman at a party tonight. I had heard of her. She had heard of me.

She told me she had been praying for us.

We've had a lot of people reminding us of their fervent and constant prayers these days, and we are grateful for those reminders.

The last year and a half has been the most difficult of our lives. We lost a child, then three months later another. In the same week I was diagnosed with Celiac, and though it has been an incredible and life saving discovery it was drastically life changing. Last September I woke up to find I could not move; it took eight weeks to figure out my endocrine system was on the brink of complete destruction. We have worked diligently to change our lives and revive my health. Thankfully God placed the perfect people and resources in our path to help us on this journey.

One month ago tomorrow, filled with terror and brimming with hope, we learned another child was on the way. As the weeks went on and my health was better than hoped or expected we slowly began to dream.

Our third child was received into the presence of God last monday.

Miscarriage is an odd yet raw and real pain. It's the loss of possibilities and dreams. For us each experience has been different. This past week can be described as shockingly sober. Though you know it's possible, you never think it's going to happen again and again. Sobering in the realization that it is possible we will never be able to personally bring created life into this world. You simply never think that's going to happen. Not to you.

The woman I met tonight asked me how I was doing, to which I honestly responded, "I'm good." Confused, doubting and sure I was just trying to be polite she said, "really?" "How in the world can you say that?"

I can say that because God has radically changed me.

This is not the road I would have chosen. These are not experiences I would wish on anyone. Yet, through the events of the last 18 months I have learned more about who I am and who God is than ever before.

At the top of my blog is the statement "love deeply, live lightly." These trials have shown me how to live lightly. There is gracious, powerful freedom in holding lightly, in keeping your palms unclenched, your mind open and your heart willing. Heretic or not (depending on what you believe about God), I believe God was just as shocked on Monday as me and Ray. I don't believe our struggles are brought on, created or ordained by God. But I do, with all my being, believe in the truth that God will never abandon us, and that God has the ability to make beautiful things out of the dust (to steal a line from gungor).

Sweet freedom can be found in coming to the life-orienting realization that nothing is ours.

Nothing.

Not even our own bodies.

They are gifts. They are tools. They are sometimes flawed and will always waste away. So, why spend precious energy, focus, frustration and time trying to hold with a tight and controlling grip to things, places, people and dreams that are not our own? There is freedom in walking alongside God fully surrendered to the understanding and truth that nothing is our own.

I did not truly believe in this freedom until now.

Sure, (if you're anything like me) there is a fair amount of terror and paralyzing fear you must surrender to and walk through in order to get to this freedom. I mean come on, we're American Christains . . . masters of "being in control," right? Wrong.

Our precious friends and family have been an incredible community to us. Some are ready to wage war with God. Many keep saying "it's not fair." Most are simply willing to sit and be.

Yet, as I prepare to sleep and again wake to an unexpected reality this is what I've realized . . .

I am entitled to nothing and nothing I own is truly mine. Walking in freedom, though it is freedom I must surrender to, makes me more alive and more of who God created me to be than walking in fear with fists clinched tight.

Finally and above all, I have realized how deeply the truth of God penetrates and propels my life.

And the truth is that God is good.

God has been good.

God will be good.

God is still good.

No matter what comes. No matter what goes.

God is good.

the best

2011-02-02T21:52:00.003-06:00

Without a doubt the best, most delicious, most amazing gf blog we have found to date.

I. Am. In. Love.

Ray has already made the vegan banana cinnamon french toast. yummmmmy.

Also, gf friends, I hope you are already planning to make it to this years expo!! In the spring it will be held in beautiful Chicago and in the fall, the not so beautiful but amazing Dallas.

Check out the events and presenters . . . . it's going to be incredible!

http://gfafexpo.com/

Quote of the Day

2011-01-27T12:25:00.001-06:00

Nature is man's healer, because nature is man.

Deepak Chopra, M.D.

Quantum Healing

Soo Good Saturday

2011-01-15T11:36:00.006-06:00

Things that I find soo good today!

Tazo Refresh Green Tea

Yoga with Seane Corn

On my purple mugger hugger mat

A Cuddly Puppy

And a date, with this handsome guy

Going Deeper

2011-01-15T11:11:00.005-06:00

Have you been looking for material to aid you in going deeper in spiritual practices this year? Are you looking to train your soul in the Jesus Way without feeling overwhelmed or unequipped (which usually leads to false guilt and procrastination)? Please allow me to highly recommend a resource:

The Good and Beautiful God

By James Bryan Smith

This book was brought to my attention by the director of Spiritual Formation at Truett (my former boss). During the years of study at Truett, students are places in covenant groups which are meant to help give support through the ups and downs of school and to be a place we were can grow spiritually, in community. This semester students will have the opportunity to go through this book together as a group.

I began reading this week and Ray has joined me in the journey. It is insightful, calm and encouraging. At the end of each of the nine chapters, readers are given a "soul-training" exercise for the week, in which they are encouraged to intentionally look for God in places and through practices. You know what the first "soul-training," exercise is? Sleep. That's right, sleep. James Bryan Smith talks about the importance of rest, how God made it to be a natural part of our worldly rhythm and how we have (over time) begun to neglect this important spiritual practice. Now, that's not scary or daunting. Sleep, rest, be filled with energy and see how that affects you. Simple, yes?

It is highly encouraged by the author to work through these practices and chapters with another person; a spouse or roommate. Yet it can be just as effectively used as an individual.

No matter the material you are using, I pray we all take time today to be still and know The Good and Beautiful God.

Expect the Unexpected

2011-01-13T17:30:00.004-06:00

Maybe that should be my motto for 2011. After a very unexpected turn of events, last week I found myself without a lot of direction and a ton of confusion. Long story short, for a time I will be stepping back from my masters of Divinity program and focusing on my masters of Nutrition Therapy. The only problem was this decision (which it wasn't much of a decision rather than every possible door closing in my face), was that it left me without a job and without a program the government will give a loan to.

Problem.

Huge, problem.

Like a, can't yet explain how huge a problem, problem.

There have been very few times in my life that I have prayed for something and was immediately answered. But, last week I told God I was going to sit at the computer and look for a job in the big metropolis of Hillsboro, Texas and that if this was the road I was to walk down, I needed something to appear. God answered immediately and today I was offered a job on my "really want to do this one day," dream job list. Beginning Monday I'll be co-managing a gym in town with a wonderful married couple. They are passionate about health and fitness, and love the Lord. How lucky, yes?

Praising God for providing and hoping that one day I won't be so shocked when I discover my prayers have been heard.

Go Bananas!

2011-01-06T17:17:00.004-06:00

Like Bananas?

Well make sure you have your fill while you can.

According to several reports, a fungal outbreak is threatening a massive shortage of our beloved yellow fruit. Keep an eye out in your local stores and eat'em while you can!

Mineral Monday

2011-01-03T16:30:00.005-06:00

Vitamins, Minerals and other important Elements:

Iron

Today's snippet is on Iron and its important role in sustaining our health.

Feeling tired all the time? Got a hitch in your giddyup? Depressed a bit, here and there? You may be lacking iron.

Did you know that over half of American's suffer from Iron-deficiency anemia? Close to 60% of the population actually; making it the second highest deficiency disease in America. Among its many jobs, iron plays an irreplaceable role in transporting oxygen from the lungs to the blood. Also, enzymes containing iron are responsible for taking the food (good and bad) we put into our bodies and helping convert that food into energy. Try adding lean poultry, fish, dried beans or spinach to your diet for an extra dose of iron. For adults, the RDI (recommended daily intake) of iron is between 15-18 milligrams.

*Before adding supplements to your diet it is always encouraged you seek the advisement of your personal health care professional.

*source consulted: Dr. Jensen's Juicing Therapy

Rise Up

2010-12-31T10:56:00.004-06:00

Even though we didn't win, the atmosphere was pretty incredible.

So proud to be a Bear!

We Survived.

2010-12-30T23:50:00.005-06:00

Ray and I have been saying that a lot lately, sometimes in honest shock and surprise, yet with deep appreciation.

We survived.

We have survived what has been without a doubt the worst year of both our lives.

I'm a planner, a plotter, a person who likes to be (or at least pretend to be) in control. This year as God has waded through what can only be described as a year-long torrential, mud-flooding monsoon along side me (and Ray, though I never want to speak for him, especially when it comes to how God has loved and walked with him), God has invited me to live a life that holds lightly.

For me, holding lightly involves the realization that I am in control of almost nothing and that nothing is truly mine, but God's.

No matter how much I loved God's child, I had no control.

No matter how much I initially despised the word celiac, I had no control.

When I woke up one morning this fall and found I was unable to move . . . no control.

There is an amazing film called Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium, and at the climatic moment of the film, Mr. Magorium softly, sincerely and profoundly tells Molly Mahoney,

"life is an occasion; rise to it."

Let's be real, there was more than one moment this year that I sat in pouring rain, clutching so tightly to the phantom of control that my fingernails made my palms bleed. There were moments it was easier, less exhausting and painful, to be a victim of life's tragedies rather than rest in truth that God had not abandoned me.

Yet, there were moments in which I tremblingly opened everything I had and kept walking; holding lightly. Not in mindset that always assumed something else was sure to be lost (though that was sometimes the fear), but in a mindset of freedom; that even if everything was lost, even if I woke up and could not move that day, that God is truly and honestly the only thing I would ever need.

God is the only thing I will ever need and the only one who can sustain me emotionally, mentally, physically. God is the only source of life for my soul.

I walk away from this year deeply thankful that the promises of God are true. God did not abandon me. God took each and every step with me, suffered with me, sat with me and on more than one occasion breathed life back into me. I walk away from this year believing that without a doubt beauty and life is brought forth from ashes and nothingness. I walk away from this year more deeply in love with Jesus and speechlessly grateful for his love for me. I walk away from a year of near darkness and expectantly wait on the new mercies coming with the dawn of a new year.

In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice;

In the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.

Psalm 5:3

For the Lord your God is living among you.

He is a mighty savior.

He will take delight in you with gladness.

With his love, he will calm all your fears.

He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.

Zephaniah 3:17

Party Time

2010-12-30T09:05:00.011-06:00

Sunday School Style

Group shot

He was affectionately referred to as "professor" all night.

Sweet friends

Ladies doing the "what face does Lori make" pose

Attempting to get a picture of the men, take 1

Take 12

Lori and Sam teaching us to play Ninja

Brooke winning for the women!

David, sad to hear he didn't win best sweater for the men.

B.R.I.L.L.A.N.T.

2010-12-18T14:41:00.001-06:00

Colbert Nation.

yes, please.

Juicing love

2010-12-13T21:58:00.003-06:00

Looking for a good juicing recipe?

This is one Ray created and we are loving . . .

One medium Cucumber

Hand full of Kale

Hand full of Swiss Chard

Thin slice of Ginger Root

Three small/medium Carrots

Small Jazz Apple

Small Pink Lady Apple

Small Pear (when in season)

About 1/2 cup fresh Cranberries

If you can look past it's beautiful rich green color, you'll love the flavor!

Three years ago . . . .

2010-12-12T08:09:00.009-06:00

(December 7th, which I missed, due to studying for finals)

Three years ago, this precious man,

brought me here

and asked me to walk along side him forever.

How did we fall in love, you ask?

Well, I'll tell you. . .

Christmas came early.

2010-12-07T07:20:00.007-06:00

And we are so incredibly blessed.

Two couples in our church surprised me and Ray with two

incredible, amazing, humbling gifts of awesomeness.

This year Ray and I have encountered several situations that have brought us to a new way of living and a new way of eating. With this new life we have only dreamed of owning certain appliances that would enable us to live even healthier.

Now, we are deeply humbled to have them both taking up residency in our little kitchen.

A beautiful, red vitamix

and an amazing Green Star juicer.

We are so thankful and so excited.

A post on sex

2010-12-06T17:25:00.001-06:00

.......By one of my favorite blogger friends.....

Tis the season to stop having sex

enjoy.

Dear Blog (and readers),

2010-12-06T08:46:00.004-06:00

Please forgive me for neglecting you so badly.

We hosted 5 people at our house for two weeks!

Then I came down with the flu two days before Thanksgiving.

So Ray stepped up to fix the feast and did an incredibly fabulous job.

Now it's just a few more days of A&P to finish and I'll come back.

Promise.

Happy Advent,

Sarah

. . . My sister is a model. (And her husband too)

2010-11-04T12:06:00.011-05:00

My incredibly beautiful sister and brother-in-law have been married for 5 years.

This was her birthday present . . .

a "trash the dress" shoot.

So beautiful it kind of makes you want to cry, yes?
I've always wanted to be like my sister . . . guess some things never change!

(Photos by the vary talented Allsion McClearly)

Dear November 1st,

2010-11-01T07:29:00.005-05:00

You are more silent than I expected.

You do not look a thing like I imagined.

Or hoped.

But that's okay.

Though you are different, the Trinity I praise, know, trust and follow is more than I imagined and has not changed.

Praise the Lord, my God and shepherd, an ever present help . . .

in ALL things.

Hallelujah, God still reigns.

Best. (Sports) Day. EVER.

2010-10-30T22:04:00.003-05:00

The Bears beat Texas . . . at Texas.

We're 7-2.

Headed to a bowl game.

Gonna win the big 12 south? I vote yes.

Sic'em!

Oh yeah, the Rangers won too! Put up your deer head, or whatever.

Favorites

2010-10-18T15:28:00.005-05:00

Spent time with some of my absolute favorites this weekend.

Refreshing to say the least.

He loves me well

2010-10-11T18:23:00.003-05:00

Before coming home for San Francisco this past weekend, Ray called me to say he had gotten me a "happy." And not just one, but two.

Not sure what this says about me, but my first thought was, "oh man, I hope he brings me a cupcake."

And what did my man have when he arrived back in Dallas?

The two most amazing gluten-free cupcakes I have ever had.

What can I say, he knows and loves me well!

http://www.karascupcakes.com/

Questions, Questions...

2010-10-09T09:24:00.008-05:00

My friend Maggie Walton tagged me (which is very exciting, as it is my first tag!), so here we go!

1. If you could go on Vacation anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I'm going to cheat and answer this for several different situations.

If I got to choose, we'd start in San Francisco, up the coast to Portland, then Seattle, Glacier Nation Park, Vancouver, up to Alaska. If Ray got to choose, we'd go to some crazy-beautiful beach, probably in Fiji.

If it was a team idea I think we would do this: Being shameless, proud lovers of the Harry Potter series (book>movies, but love them both) we would travel to England and Scotland and visit some of the places in the books and films. Spend some time in Scotland watching Ray play golf (he's really good), and then make a point to visit some of the important Churches and places of Christian history.

2. Are you a morning person of an evening person?

Morning without a doubt. My mind stops working at like 8 pm.

3. If you could have any job in the world, regardless of how much money it made, what would it be?

My dream job is the one I'm training for and hoping God will be able create it. If I could do anything, it would be a job in leading people in spiritual formation/nutrition therapy/yoga instructor and mom.

4. How many kids do you want to have and do you have a preference on gender?

No preference on gender. We've never really set on a number. I'd personally like to have one maybe two biological children and adopt (something we are very passionate about) 2 or 3.

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I would be a little less worried about disappointing people who mean a lot to me and a little more audacious.

6. What is your favorite quote/bible verse?

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us, it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."

Scripture: 1 John 4:18

There is NO fear in love. Perfect love drives out all fear . . .

7. What is your single, most favorite decorative item in you house?

Right now, it's my new kitchen chairs. Soon, it will hopefully be the armchair we are reupholstering!

8. Chocolate of vanilla?

Ice cream: vanilla with chocolate in/on it

Anything else: Chocolate!!

My 8 questions:

1. What is your favorite season?

2. Congrats! You've won TWO shopping sprees! $1,000 to Target and $1,000 to Home Depot. How will you use it?

3. You have to quickly leave your house (and not go back), and can only take 5 things with you (humans not included, they leave on their own, but animals count). What would you take?

4. Perfect fall Saturday . . . stay around the house for football and projects or go spend the day out?

5. Routine or spontaneity?

6. What is your favorite desert?

7. Best moment of your life.

8. Where have you seen/experienced God this week?

Tagging:

Another possibility? Yes, please.

2010-10-08T12:16:00.008-05:00

I won't spend a lot of time talking about this new stand Al Mohler is taking against the practice of yoga. I am a lot things: a wife, a minister, the wife of a minster, the member of a southern baptist church AND I'm a yoga instructor. A yoga instructor who is deeply in love with Christ and who finds beauty and great appreciation in the practice of stilling my mind, reconnecting with my breath, and encountering the presence of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit in that mental peace. My yoga practice gives me the opportunity to care for the body that God has given me (and commanded me to care for) through cardiovascular and muscle strengthening work. Yoga invites me to live in the present moment; something our western world is not skilled in. I am invited to listen, to feel, and watch for the activity of God in the present moment. To still myself enough that I have the the chance to hear from God, when the noise and pace of my life may have missed His words to me. And most rewardingly, it allows me the opportunity to help lead other yogis into the presence of Christ in a new way.

Though this can be very good and very bad, our American Christianity has perfected the taking of secular things and "making" them Christian. Yes, yoga's roots come from a background that does not acknowledge the Trinity of Christianity, but rather than being afraid of the entire practice and just trowing it completely out, I wish we could experience it (with caution, especially if you're new in your faith) and learn that we as Christians can make this a Christ-centered and very healthy practice (and lets be honest, us baptist could use some practice in health, considering we are some of the most unhealthy in America).

Want more information on what can be a Christ-centered practice?

http://holyyoga.net/

http://www.wholyfit.org/

http://www.christianyoga.com/

DIY--Chair Edition

2010-10-03T10:11:00.007-05:00

Today I successfully reupholstered my kitchen chairs (with the amazing help of Ray, of course).

Before

After

The fabric is actually a curtain from World Market.

I'm very pleased with the final product!

STOP! And take time to fall in love with Gungor

2010-10-02T11:47:00.000-05:00

2010-10-02T11:45:00.000-05:00

Worship

2010-09-30T22:55:00.003-05:00

Ray and I just got home from the first evening of David Crowder's Fantastical Church Music Conference. Tonight Francis Chan spoke an brought the house down. Leading worship were two bands that I have fallen in love with: The Welcome Wagon and Gungor. It was incredible to worship with so many people who were truly singing out to God.

Here is one of the most beautiful songs I've heard in a while:

All this pain
I wonder if I’ll even find my way
I wonder if my life could really change at all
All this earth
Could all that is lost ever be found
Could a garden come up from this ground at all

You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of the dust
You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of us

All around
Hope is springing up from this old ground
Out of chaos life is being found in You

You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of the dust
You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of us

You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of the dust
You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of us

You make me new, You are making me new
You make me new, You are making me new

You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of the dust
You make beautiful things

You make beautiful things out of us

-Gungor

I'm not going to lie . . .

2010-09-29T20:02:00.002-05:00

It's nice to be loved on.

It's even better when it comes at the perfect time.

Need to smile?

2010-09-20T21:32:00.000-05:00

Reminder in the Rain

2010-09-07T22:18:00.007-05:00

Three texts my sister sent out tonight:

Praying friends-urgent prayer request. We are supposed to play an outdoor show tonight with Mercy Me for the Navajo nation. The first Christian band they've had in 64 years in their reservation. This area is under spiritual darkness and poverty and needs hope. It is--out of no where--pouring down rain. The people are still coming in, huddled together in this cold mess. Never prayed for rain to stop before--but I sense that tonight is spiritually very important. Please join with me and ask God for a miracle. Please pass the request on to other believers as well. We're in Window Rock, Arizona. 9:13 pm

Rain just stopped and people are cheering! They are still here waiting. Soaking wet. Trying to get water off the roof now... Checking electrical things 9:40pm

A miracle happened. I truly believe it. It went from darkness and rain to stillness. The people are all screaming "Jesus!" now. one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen. 9:50 pm

God is listening. God is powerful. God is.

Jerry's World

2010-09-06T19:48:00.006-05:00

Today was our first trip to the monstrosity that is the Cowboy's stadium.

One of Ray's best friends from college, Jon Bodenstein's (aka: Bode) "little brother" (there is nothing little about this guy) is currently one of the top offensive lineman recruits (who just recently signed with Kansas) in the nation. The team he plays for, Shiloh Christian, from Arkansas was invited to play in a showcase hosting some of the best

HS programs in the country.

Trav, lay'n some kid out!

The future of Shiloh football, Jake Bodenstein.

Cheering on the Saints to the very (kinda painful) end!

The Second

2010-09-04T07:48:00.009-05:00

Celebrating two years: Home Edition

Although our actual anniversary is not until Monday, we began the celebrations early since Monday will be spent with some of Ray's greatest friends from college.

The Master Chef

I sooo happily eat meat when Ray makes Bison.

In.Cred.Ible

Amazing gf cake Ray ordered from Houston,

and my quick attempt to fix the icing that had

fallen off the entire cake in transit.

Love

My Life

http://glutenfreehouston.com/

The Best of the Worst: Best of Part III

2010-08-27T07:52:00.015-05:00

Ray and I have recently started "eating clean," which has been incredible. Who knew it would be possible to feel even healthier and more energetic?! Gluten free + eating clean = best life ever. BUT, the big but, it's always important to allow yourself what I like to call

"cheat treats."

Even one of my new favorite fitness professionals

Alicia Marie

admits to having double stuffed Oreos in her freezer for not so clean eating after a photo shoot or competition.

I personally have not discovered the courage to try many pre-packaged gf cookies, mostly because it only takes one bad experience to make you run the other way and never look back.

But have no fear, here are some of the really good/but only every so often gf cheat treats:

I've never tried make brownies from scratch, only from a box. So, the best box-o-brownies: Gluten Free Pantry

CC Cookie Recipe: Pamela's (can be found online on back of baking mix)

Cupcake heaven: Whole Food GF Bakehouse

Ray loves the vinilla, I love the chocolate

And my favorite dessert ever: Cheesecake

The best recipe we have found so far (which Ray has mastered creating, much to the delight of mouth and dismay of my hips) can be found in

Carol Fenster's 1000 Gluten Free Recipes Cookbook

The Question That Rocked My Education...

2010-08-26T19:33:00.003-05:00

Today in my scriptures II class we discusses the book of Amos. Have you ever read Amos? It's only 9 short chapters, you should stop and read it now. Seriously, I need you to stop and read it now, so you can help me out with this question.

Done?

Okay.

God's pretty angry, yeah? Talks through the prophet Amos about bringing plagues and droughts and other horrible things on the people God is rather angry with.

This text did not sit well with me, simply because in my personal relationship with God I haven't known God to be extremely angry. I found my feelings confusing and hard to explain, but a classmate of mine did not and asked the most intense question I have encountered thus far in my seminary journey.

I would say most Jesus followers (or at least the ones I know) do not assert that God causes bad things to happen. But, if you read Amos, you see very clearly that God is taking full credit for bringing bad things upon God's people. Wouldn't that then mean that God does in fact cause (or at least has caused in the passed) bad things to happen?

Thoughts?

The Land of Enchantment

2010-08-15T13:54:00.008-05:00

Weapon of Choice

2010-08-02T10:00:00.006-05:00

There are so many things I have come to love about small town living.

No traffic (minus the tractors), learning to garden, knowing everyone, the quiet and still nights. I truly love this place.

But last week I was reminded of the one thing I deeply detest.

Passive-aggressive-gossip.

In our small town of 150 where everyone is related in some shape-form-or-fashion, the deeply ingrained mode of handling issues with one another is by talking badly about an issue/person to someone else. This person then goes on to tell someone else, and someone else, and someone else (you get the picture) until it gets to the person who was being badly spoken about to begin with. Then one of two things happens, 1. the person being spoken about gets angry (and rightfully so, they have now been gossiped about throughout the entire town) and (not rightfully so) passive-aggressively responds with an angry/bitter silence OR 2. they respond by talking badly about the person who was talking badly about them, thus causing the vicious cycle of passive-aggressive dysfunction to continue.

I am the wife of a pastor. Did you know that?

The wife of a pastor, who was a child of a minister, who grew up in some seriously dysfunctional churches. I've been in ministry almost all my life, which sadly means I've watched people tear each other down and deeply wound each each other with their words for well over two decades. Words, that many times eventually made their way around to the ministers and their family; my family.

The author of James describes the tongue as a "tiny spark that can set a great forest on fire," saying that "it is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body," that surely "it is set on fire by hell itself." At the climax of this passage he says that the tongue is "restless and evil, full of deadly poison."

I wish I could say I weathered the unforgiving words against my family with grace and mercy, but that's not what happened. I instead wielded the weapon of my tongue and became a fighter. I garnered the skill of wounding with words. My tongue became my best weapon; a weapon of mass destruction, a weapon of defense. This fighter mentality was something I could actually get away with as a child.

But I am no longer a child.

I am no longer the child of a minister.

I am woman.

I am the partner of a minister.

It's no surprise that the people who make up the church haven't changed; we are all still people after all. So it should come as no surprise that people talk badly about my husband. It should come as no surprise that they do not come to him with their frustrations and concerns, but passive-aggressively wade them through the channels of town gossip. So, reader, should it be any surprise that my automatic response to hurtful words against someone I passionately love is make mine hurt more?

But I am no longer a child.

I am no longer the child of a minister.

I am a woman.

I am the partner of a minister.

I have often wondered why God brought us to this small town. A place in which Ray and I many times feel so out of place. But last week I was reminded that one of the many reasons we are here is so that I may be confronted in a very exposed way of the thing that I actually deeply detest.

My sin. My weapon of choice.

"For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way." James 3:2

Best Of: Take II

2010-07-30T08:45:00.010-05:00

Yummy, yummy carbs

Bread

Ray usually makes our bread at home, but if we need to grab a frozen loaf . . .

1. French Meadow Bakery

2. Or if we happen to visit Homestead Heritage near Waco,

we'll pick up a loaf there.

Pizza

Make your own dough:

Gluten Free Pantry

Frozen Pizza Crust/Make your own topping fun:

1. Udi's

2. French Meadow Bakery

Froze: One Word, Conte's

Pasta: This was a hit-and-miss for awhile, but we have found our favorites.

1. Bionaturae = Best pasta I've ever put in my mouth, period.

2. Tinkyada Brown Rice pasta

Collections

2010-07-29T08:37:00.010-05:00

A few years ago Ray bought me one of these beauties . . .

The sound is incredible.

There are times I'm positive if I turn around Chris Martin will be

sitting on my couch just singing away.

Some of our favorites . . .

(Yes, judge if you must. But who can resist Iron & Wine, The Killers, Muse, Mutemath, and Death Cab all on the same record?)

Best Of Gluten-Free living: Take I

2010-07-12T07:32:00.014-05:00

Her eyes were wide, forehead wrinkled in stress. She quieted her husband with a quick wave of her hand as he stood behind her, hands shoved deep in his pockets, clearly ready to leave. Hoping her children didn't lose their faith, she smiled brightly and said, "here!" "This one." "This looks good." She opened to freezer and picked up a loaf of gluten-free bread. Not just any bread, but the absolute worst, cardboard-tasting, crumbles into sand, would-rather-go-to-the-dentist-and-get-teeth-pulled bread. One quick look to their buggy (that's right, I called it a buggy) and it was clear that for whatever reason this family was going gluten-free, this was obviously their first shopping adventure and it was about to go terribly wrong. I could see the dinner fiasco play out in mind; kids crying, dad angry, mom trying to be positive but really wanting to cry a bit herself. Not an ideal first impression.

Gluten-free living can be fantastic in so many ways and can be relatively simple, but you never want to begin your journey by picking up a random brand assuming it can't be that bad. Trust me, it can. BUT a lot of it isn't; you just need to know what to get. Once you re-wire you Americanized "I didn't know there were flours other than white and wheat," brain, and walk into the reality of great possibility, it becomes natural and most will vouch, preferred.

When I nosed into this family's shopping trip, I was relieved to find that they actually did need help and found great joy in watching the mom's stress melt away as we stood and talked about which brands to get and which brands to run from. So, I've decided to create a small booklet that can be handed out in similar situations.

We'll begin with the basics: flour.

*Please know that I am in no way begin compensated by any of these companies. This is purely documentation of mine and my husband's personal gluten-free favorites.

For all your general baking needs (cakes, waffles, biscuits, etc) Pamela's is fantastic.

Other flours we use most often: rice flour, potato, sorghum, tapioca, garbanzo bean, xanthan gum, guar gum, millet, and potato starch and corn starch.

We use one of three brands, preferably in this order:

1. Arrowhead Mills

2. Barry Farm

A family-run farm in Wapakoneta, Ohio

http://www.barryfarm.com/

3. Bob's

Side note with Bob's. We only use Bob's baking powder. The mixes that we have used are not good. I have also heard several rumors that Bob's manufactures gluten-free and gluten-filled products on the same machinery. Friends have warned me (begin someone who is severely allergic) to tread lightly with Bob's. Not claiming this to be fact, rather simply what I've been told by friends.

That's it for us. Any other gluten-free followers out there with other opinions please leave a comment!

Food Art

2010-07-10T13:32:00.004-05:00

This weekend Ray and I are taking care of our niece Anniston (although we may never be asked to again after my brother-in-law sees these pictures). Just like her mom, Annie's favorite time of day is meal time.

And Then There Were None

2010-07-01T11:22:00.019-05:00

Warning . . . this post contains way too many pictures

Last weekend I had the chance to get together with some of my absolute favorite women in the world. Together again (minus one important lady), to celebrate the last and final marriage.

Some of us have been friends our entire lives

The rest of us, only 15 years or so. Looking through pictures, there are hundreds I could choose from (and probably would have if I could have gotten the scanner to work),

but I think these will do . . .

Stefanie and Michael's Wedding

Jennifer and Russell's Wedding

Kate and Robert's Wedding

Mine and Ray's Wedding

Kim and Harrison's Wedding

Kyndall and Keith's Wedding

These women are incredible. We have been through some amazing and difficult life situations and have been there for each other through them all. Thank you God for these precious friends.

Classical Music- The Universal Language

2010-06-26T22:56:00.019-05:00

This week was incredibly (I don't even know what words to use) emotional. Ray and I walked, cried, rejoiced and morned with our entire community, as we said 'see you again' to one of the most authentic Christ followers I have ever know and a pillar of this town. Warren Ferguson was his name. Because of Christ's love for him, Warren fell deeply in love with Christ and ardently followed him with every breath, smile, laugh and touch. The legacy of his life will be forever etched into the history of this town and the hearts of all who knew him. He and his wife had the most beautiful, grace-giving, soulful-loving marriage I have ever seen. As I continue to process what this town has gone through in the last several days and how God has revealed himself through it all, I'll tell you more of their awe-inspiring story.

Even after Ray had been going non-stop for days, last night he took

me on the most perfect date I have ever been on in my life.

It began with a short trip to Dallas for dinner at our favorite gluten-free establishment . . . Chipotle, of course. Then we headed across the highway to my most loved Dallas destination, The Meyerson Symphony Center.

Last night was quite an adventure. The orchestra played the score to Planet Earth while the audience watched segments from the documentary. Being admirers of both the BBC series and the symphony, it was a magical evening. The composer of the series flew in from London and guest conducted the DSO, which made the concert all the more exciting.

Now I'm off to bed, and plan on holding my husband and little closer tonight.

Amazing

2010-06-22T07:00:00.003-05:00

One of the most beautiful stories of how perfectly God made our bodies I have ever read.

http://buildingmommymuscles.blogspot.com/

Soft Reminder

2010-06-17T21:52:00.004-05:00

Everything will be okay,

lift up your hands and pray.

We'll walk this valley hand-in-hand

and follow God to the promised land.

This phrase has been sweetly repeating in my soul today; bringing rest and restoring hope.

Praying you find rest today as well.

The Chase

2010-06-15T21:03:00.006-05:00

If you had asked me five or six years ago where I would be and what I'd be doing today I surely would not have thought up my current life. Seminary and nutrition were not in the plans. But, thanks to God working in my life and on my heart I am about to begin my second year of seminary. Over the years I have become more interested in health and nutrition; falling in love with teaching aerobics and struggling with the deterioration of my health which has led me on a long journey to discover I am a celiac. This disease which is thought to be more rare than it actually is has increased my passion for nutrition,

and now I'm chasing a dream I never knew I had.

Along with seminary, this fall I will begin pursuing a masters degree in

nutrition therapy from the Nutrition Therapy Institute in Denver, Colorado.

http://www.instituteofnutrition.com/

I just received information for the first set of classes I'll be doing on a distance learning program: Anatomy & Physiology, Biochemistry, Nutrients: The Building Blocks, and Food Therapy!

So excited and kind of scared. Chasing a passion with no clue of where it will lead.

Cannot wait!

Happy Birthday . . . The One where I'm day late!

2010-06-15T08:12:00.007-05:00

Lauren Kelly Moore Venable

Creative, Courageous, Crazy Red-Head

Lauren, what an incredible woman you are. I know no one else who would have the courage to drop out of college as a sophomore, and with reckless abandon begin her own business with nothing but passion and a Macbook. Everything you think of comes to life, and everything you touch turns to gold. I hope on your birthday (because it's your birthday, meaning you get to think about yourself all day long) you are reminded how truly unique and special you are; a limited edition. It has been my pleasure to be your friend and get to cheer you on as you take over (I mean, help grow) one of the largest industries in America. No matter how many days it's been between coffee dates, I treasure our ability to be incredibly vulnerable and honest about life. I excitedly wait in great expectation to see where your passion for God and your art takes you and James. Much love to you on your Birthday week, sweet friend!

p.s. I searched and searched for your 'Fozzie the Bear' picture and will replace the current picture with that one as soon as I can find it!

p.s.s. Ray is currently singing you a spacial Birthday song. He loves you too.

p.s.s.s. I faintly hear Joey crying out, "Why GOD, Why are you doing this to us?! We had a deal!"

Steroids. . .

2010-06-08T13:37:00.004-05:00

. . . I think our garden may be on them.

Today's zucchini

First tomato of the season!

We named it Bob. Not after the cartoon, after my sister.

GFDOTW

2010-06-08T12:45:00.004-05:00

Also Known As: Gluten-Free Discoveries of the Week.

I recently had a conversation with the new Fitness GA at Baylor, Pam. I fell in love with her instantly. Pam has a child living the GFCF (gluten/casein free) lifestyle, and she knows her stuff. She asked if I had noticed with the gluten now out of my system a heightened intolerance to lactose. Pam then went on to explain that both gluten and dairy are made up of six amino acids, and when placed by one another you can clearly see three of the amino acids in both gluten and dairy are identical to one another. Thus, most people who are allergic to gluten are allergic to dairy. Although my body has been asking me to part ways with dairy for awhile I just can't walk away from cheese! Not yet at least.

We have begun reading two books this week that I highly recommend: Going Against the Grain, by Melissa Diane Smith and Wheat-Free Worry-Free, by Danna Korn.

In Melissa's Going Against the Grain, she presents some of the most insightful and simultaneously terrifying information I have read in all my personal research.

"Kenneth Fine, M.D., director and founder of the Intestinal Health Institute in Dallas, Texas, an internationally renowned gastrointestinal researcher and a pioneer in our understanding of gluten sensitivity . . . Fine has developed a much more sensitive test that can detect cases of gluten sensitivity that aren't picked up with standard blood screens" (76-77). "Here are the shocking results of his reserach so far: The genes that seem to make a person susceptible to developnig gluten sensitiveity are exceedingly common: They're present in 60 to 70 precent of the population. At least 50% of the population is gluten sensitive; that's 140 million Americans" (77).

In Danna's book Wheat-Free Worry-Free, she gives one of the best compiled lists of common misdiagnoses I have seen thus far:

-Anemia

-IBS

-Psychological Dysfunction

-Diarrhea

-IBD

-Diabetes

-Spastic Colon

-Ulcers

-Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

-Weight Loss

-Allergies

-Gallbladder Disease

-Thyroid Disease

-Colitis

-Cystic Fibrosis

-Lactose Intolerance

-Reflux

"Additionally, people are often misdiagnosed with fibromyalgia, carbohydrate malabsorption, recurrent abdominal pain, and other conditions" (37).

Word on the dirt road . . .

2010-06-07T19:07:00.005-05:00

well I can't say street . . . we don't really have those here.

No matter, the word out there is that Ray and I have a better garden than any of the local farmers. At first I was positive they were just trying to be kind, you know like when people say "Ohhh your baby is sooo cute," but are really thinking, "holy mess that's an ugly kid."

BUT.

I'm beginning to think maybe they are telling the truth.

zucchini, over a foot long!

Gluten Free: the good, the bad, the confused

2010-05-26T10:47:00.011-05:00

It has been nearly 70 days since I transitioned to a completely gluten-free diet. Although I have had my share of pity-party moments while watching friends indulge in foods that we now know possess the culprit of my illness(es), I feel like a completely different human. Turns out, it's not normal to feel fatigued every waking hour of the day, experience incredible pain hours after eating, and (my favorite) an unnatural burning-of-the-scalp after a routine shampoo and condition.

Eating pain-free, watching the random depression and anxiety attacks dissipate, being able to shower like a normal person, and actually having energy has changed me, but there is one change that I would consider the most bizarre of all: Raynaud's. After an experience with hypothermia my sophomore year of high school, we discovered I have a rare circulatory disease called raynaud's. Basically, my body is super sensitive to temperature changes and always seems to think it needs to push blood away from my feet, hands, ears and nose in order to save other, more important organs. This reaction led to my extremities become incredibly cold and usually turning blue or purple. So, even when if it was summer and 120 degrees, I wore a jacket.

"You're warm, Sarah," was the comment made by my husband as he held my hand about 5 weeks into the diet. I had not really noticed. Nevertheless, as we began to be attentive to my Raynaud's we quickly noticed, it was almost completely gone. Absent. Vanished. No where to be found. I have begun wearing shirts without sleeves, dresses without cardigans . . . I'm living jacket free! Now folks, this might seem rather humorous to you, but if you only understood. It is as though I am slowly becoming less and less a prisoner in my own body.

FREEDOM.

Yet this freedom has not totally proved free it's own frustrations.

I love where we live; it's quite, it's beautiful, (let's be honest) it's free of charge. But, the closest place to purchase the food we need is an hour away. We have had to learn how to plan out every aspect of our schedule around this diet. When can we get food? Where can we get food? Can we eat at that restaurant (If it's anywhere near Hillsboro, NO)? This town, and the towns close to it for that matter, is not conducive to gluten-free living. We're praying our next move will place us near a Whole Foods or Trader Joes!

Fact: I live in the middle of wheat fields. That's right, we farm wheat here in Hill county and lucky me it's harvest season. It's sort of comical to think that the thing I'm allergic to is at this moment literally flying around in massive quantities. Needless to say I've been a bit sick this week.

People. I love people. And, for the most part, the people in our community (not just geographical) have been extremely supportive; even when they have never heard of the word gluten, much less know what it is. BUT , there are those who have not been as gracious and that has been difficult to handle. It's been difficult to discover that some just assume this is another flower-child experiment, rather than understanding its necessity in my life. It's been difficult to explain to those who were positive that my semi-gluten free diet had not given enough nutrents to sustain both pregnancies that the exact opposite is true. It's been difficult to listen to people gawk, totally dumbfounded that food could abort a pregnancy (Seriously, friends? According to the CDC, heart disease kills more Americans than anything else. How do you think most people are contacting this disease? "FOOD". But that it is a completely different rant).

Thankfully, those people and those certain situations have not outweighed the support and the pure joy I've experienced (Ray as well) in feeling and being healthy for the first time in nearly seven years. We are forever grateful to God for helping us not give up our quest for answers and discovering this life-changing information.

Growth

2010-05-26T10:08:00.009-05:00

With the help of a farmer in our church (who by the way is one of the kindest most Christ-following men I've ever known), Ray and I planted our first garden.

Spinach, lettuce, carrots, onions, tomatoes, snap beans, zucchini, squash, and peppers!

By far the most exciting part of this gardening experience has been sharing the food with friends.
Need any zucchini?

Fly Me to the Moon

2010-05-15T15:31:00.009-05:00

Ray and I were recently introduced to some of
my sister's astronaut and NASA friends.

This week while Ray and I were in Houston, Todd Hellner from NASA spent hours showing us around Johnson Space Center.

It. Was. Incredible.

We had conversations with astronauts who mere months ago were living on the International Space Station, stepped onto the floor of Mission Control, and sat in the practice shuttle's pilot and captain's seats.Here are the few pictures captured before my camera battery died.

The old Apollo Mission Control room.
This is where Gene Kranz sat during Apollo 13.
This room is no longer operational and is now a Nation Monument.

Down the hall is the current Mission Control room, which we were lucky to get into; an hour later and it would have been closed down in order to prepare for the Shuttle Atlantis, which launched yesterday afternoon.
In the Shuttle!

Did you know that in the Space Station, the craft is moving at such a fast speed that the astronauts experience a sunset or sunrise every 45 minutes? Or, that there is only a 5 minute window every day in which a shuttle can launch and reach the station without using up all their fuel? Amazing, yes?!

We are so thankful to our friend Todd for such an incredible experience.

One Vision

2010-05-10T22:28:00.004-05:00

It is said that the first year of marriage is the most difficult.

False.

At least that has not proved to be true for us. Year two has been filled with more struggle and growing pains than I think we ever expected. Yes, eight weeks ago we lost our second child. Sure, a week after that our lives changed dramatically with a completely gluten-free lifestyle taking up its permanent residency in our world. Of course, like most young ministers we are attempting to creatively live on one salary while I commute to and from Waco 10 hours a week to be in school full-time.

Yet the difficulty in our relationship has come less from the pain of loss, and frustration of finance, and more from the realization that we are two incredibly different people.

Our fabulous counselor, * we are big believers in the ability a trained, professional listener has to encourage our relationship to be as strong as possible, which is especially important for ministers. I'll talk about counseling often, so if the mention of it makes you uncomfortable and causes you to question your own sanity, you may want to talk with someone about that.* recently had us take a personality assessment called an enneagram, in which a person falls into one of 9 personality types. I sat in total shock as I listened to our counselor describe how, based on our results, my personality type at its worst becomes Ray's personality type and Ray's personality type at its worst becomes mine. Yeah, feel free to read that sentence again.

How?! How have I been married to this man for 21 months and not realized that we are exact opposites? I mean, we get along so well. No hesitation; I'd rather be near this man (in every simple and complex way that means) than any other living, breathing human in existence. We balance each other out. He is gracious when I am quick to criticize. He goes with the flow and I plan out details. He rarely looks past next Sunday and I scheme months in advance. I crave the experience of adventure and He longs for the stability of a hometown. I live a few dream clouds above reality while He naturally abides on the ground of actuality. I prefer the liturgy of high church and He prefers the grassroots simplicity of guitar led worship.

Do we love each other? yes.
Are we friends? the best.
Have we recently woken-up thinking "oh no, who is this person I have forever hitched my wagon to?" without a doubt.

My dreams include multiple scene changes; most of which have mountains as a backdrop. His dreams stay faithfully under this massive Texas sky; hopefully in the same place for 30 years or so. As we become more honest and unravel the depth of our diverse visions for our future, the more difficult, taxing and (let's speak truth) scary the weight and reality of "two becoming one," becomes. How do you submit to each other as equals and deal with the less than flattering discovery that you may actually be more selfish than you ever cared to acknowledge? How do release pieces of your dreams and goals without losing yourself? How do you create and give birth a new vision, a shared vision?

Honestly, we don't know quite yet. But, we do know that this vulnerable growth process (though painful at times) is bringing beautiful, servant-minded, trust-filled, grace-founding life to our "one."

April

2010-05-01T19:11:00.012-05:00

April was a big and busy month! Both mine and Ray's Birthdays, finishing up projects, and adjusting to my new gluten-free life! Here are some pics from the past few weeks.

Friends together for Ray's birthday at Ninfa's

My Sister, niece, and friends Kristyn, Ryan and Jackson came over on my birthday to celebrate with an incredible gluten-free meal made by my amazing husband! GF cheesecake and all!

Kim and Harrison's Beautiful Wedding

Happy Birthday . . .

2010-04-04T19:36:00.007-05:00

Kristyn: Creative, loving, Patient, Inspiring Mother

Sweet Kristyn, I feel like we've been friends much longer than a year and 1/2! Your friendship has been such a blessing to me. You are a deeply inspiring woman of God. Your love for Ryan and Jack is steady and true, your patience for teaching children who really do not want to learn is never-ending and your passion for Christ-centered living is infectious. Though I am so sad you, Ryan and Jack will be leaving soon, I hope we will not live so far apart for too long! Love and blessings to you on your birthday!

************************************************************************************

Ryan: Inventive, Hardworking, Not easily surprised

Happy Birthday Brother-in-law! You are such an important part of our family and I have been blessed by your presence. Addison Road would not run as smoothly as it does without your passionate, creative, (lets be honest) OCD work ethic! Getting to watch you grow from a husband to a husband and a father has been a joy. Your love for Anniston is overflowing and contagious. Ray and I loved being apart of your first surprise party! Much love to you on you 30th Birthday!

Homestead

2010-04-03T11:25:00.019-05:00

Yesterday the Millers and some of our best friends the Arnolds took advantage of (what turned out to be) beautiful weather and spent several hours at Homestead Heritage. This beautiful Anabaptist community uses God's creation and their gift-given abilities to create and sustain a more simplistic, Christ-centered way of life. There are several stores in the community where you can purchase their incredible creations, as well as a restaurant, in which I had a delectable turkey sandwich on the best gluten-free bread I have ever tasted (you gluten-free friends know what a huge discovery that is!). What an exciting opportunity to be invited to into such a loving community and be encouraged to look around!

Becoming educated . . . the painful way

2010-03-24T18:12:00.005-05:00

Ray and I handle trauma in very different ways, yet throughout the past seven days I have fallen more deeply in love with my best friend. He has protected me in prayer and action in more ways than I can begin to count. Praise Jesus for such a loving man.

One way he has loved me so well has been by encouraging me and joining my quest for understanding, education, and answers. After a lot of research, identifying puzzle pieces and placing them together, and the concurrence of two of my doctors, I believe God has led us to the culprit of the two miscarriages we've experienced in the last six months:

Celiac Disease.

Over the past several years I have exhibited multiple (chronic) symptoms of gluten intolerance/celiac disease. Yet, my blood work has always came back as not having the full-blown disease. Because gluten-free living is such a drastic life style change, we changed some things, but not all. Honestly, after several negative tests I convinced myself the symptoms were thanks to stress; so I dealt with side effects and tried to push it to the back of my mind.

After a pretty dramatic pricking of my finger to take an at home blood type test, we discovered my blood type is O+, which (according to the research we've done) is the type that is highly susceptible to gluten intolerance. We also discovered it's not good for people with my blood type to be vegetarians (yeah, depressing I know. Ray and I are going to celebrate my leaving vegetarianville on Friday with his family at a nice dinner).

The more we dug the more we discovered, and then the flood gates opened as we found thousands of articles reporting story after story on women who did not know they were gluten intolerant/celiacs and had (in some cases) dozens of miscarriages or struggled with infertility before realizing the gruesome and deadly effects gluten was having on them and their unborn children. When you are intolerant to gluten, your immune system and body as a whole is so focused on fighting off gluten, it doesn't have nutrients or protection to give to the baby.

Although we are still not 100% sure and there are sill other blood tests to run, the signs and common sense point to gluten.

We have a long way to go on our healing journey and have been deeply thankful for the nearness of God, especially through the people who have been praying for us and contacting us often with words of love and encouragement. Even though I know rough days are still ahead, God helping us put the pieces together has filled me with peace, and hope I was not sure would resurface for a while.

Thank you for your prayers, please continue to pray for Ray and I as we journey with God on this new, completely gluten-free life. Please God, let this be the answer.

Am I still breathing? Not sure.

2010-03-22T22:15:00.006-05:00

Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side.

Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain.

Leave to thy God, to order and provide

In every chagne, he faithful will remain.

Be still, my sou: thy best, thy heavenly Friend

Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

***********************

Be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake

To guide the future, as He has the past.

Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;

All now mysterious shall be bright at last.

Be still, my soul: the waves and winds still know

His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.

*************************

Be still, my soul: when dearest friends depart,

And all is darkened in the vale of tears,

then thou shalt better know His love, His heart,

Who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears.

Be still, my soul: thy Jesus can repay

from His own fullness all He takes away.

************************

Be still, my soul: the hour is hastening on

When we shall be forever with the Lord.

When disappointment, grief and fear are gone,

Sorrow forgot, Love's purest joys restored.

Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past

All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

Great is His Faihfulness . . . Take 2.

2010-03-17T07:47:00.000-05:00

We lift up our eyes to the hills--

Where does our help come from?

Our help comes from the Lord,

the Maker of heaven and earth.

He will not let our foot slip--

he who watches over us will not slumber;

Indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

The Lord watches over us--

the Lord is our shade at our right hand;

the sun will not harm us by day,

nor the moon by night.

The Lord will keep us from all harm--

he will watch over our life;

the Lord will watch over our coming and going

both now

and forever more.

Thank you, Sweet Jesus

2010-03-08T14:32:00.004-06:00

After months of every kind of attack from Satan imaginable, this is the after math of my sister, niece and brother-in-law's RV that was bringing their band, Addison Road, on a cross-country tour with Sanctus Real.
Their RV unexpectedly exploded on Friday, March, 5th. It took Jesus breaking down that bus 6 times before the band got out and rented cars. My beautiful niece Annie would have been sleeping in the bed over the engine that randomly exploded. They literally have lost all of their belongings. Clothes, toys, book, electronics, gear, thousands of dollars worth of band merchandise (basically the only way they make any money), make-up, the list goes on.

E.V.E.R.Y.T.H.I.N.G.

Through all of the attacks they have endured they have clung to Jesus and the Christian community. God Has emotionally and physically sustained them, and laid it on the hearts of others to take care of the livelihood. They still need lots of help. Please go here if you can help. And thank you for your prayers for them . . . this time your prayers literally saved their lives.

Thank you, God, for protecting your servants.

A few from Kristina and BJ's Wedding

2010-03-07T13:30:00.006-06:00

Yes, it is true

2010-03-07T13:20:00.001-06:00

I have the cutest dog in the world.

Game Changers

2010-03-06T11:46:00.004-06:00

Over the past several years Ray and I have begun to educate ourselves on proper nutrition and a whole foods type of diet; investigating what our western society tells us is true food that will bring us health and life, and trying to determine whether or not the messages from the people and companies we trust are true. The more educated we become, the more we realize we have been blatantly lied to. This journey has quickly become a passion of mine, and slowly I will begin to write more about our findings.

As Spring break approaches, I encourage you to take a few hours out of your schedule and become a bit more informed about the food you feed your body. For me and Ray, these films were "game changers." Although they may not have the same impact on you, I still strongly believe our education is non-negotiable. If you get a chance to watch, let me know what you think!

A Reading

2010-02-25T07:03:00.002-06:00

To say that I am made in the image of God is to say that Love is the reason for my existence, for God is Love. Love is my true identity. Selflessness is my true self. Love is my true character. Love is my name.

If, therefore, I do anything or think anything or say anything or know anything that is not purely for the love of God, it cannot give me peace, or rest, or fulfillment, or joy.

To find love I must enter into the sanctuary where it is hidden, which is the mystery of God.

-Thomas Merton

Psalm

2010-02-17T08:06:00.002-06:00

In the celebration of Lent, I have begun praying the hours with Thomas Merton. It has been some time since practicing this discipline and thus I am very excited to be practicing this kind of prayer again. In morning prayers today, Thomas wrote an incredibly beautiful psalm about God's love. Thought I would share it as a celebratory Ash Wednesday/First Day of Lent psalm.

The Lord God is present where the new day shines
in the moisture on the young grasses.
The Lord God is present where the small wildflowers
are known to him alone.
The Lord God passes suddenly, in the wind,
at the moment when night ebbs into the ground.
He Who is infinitely great has given o His Children
a share in his own innocence.
His alone is he gentlest of loves: whose pure flame
respects all things.
God, Who owns all things, leaves them all to themselves.
He never takes them for His own,
the way we take them for our own and destroy them.
He leaves them to themselves.
He keeps giving to them, giving them all that they are,
asking no thanks of them save hat they should receive
from Him
and be loved and nurtured by Him,
and that they should increase and multiply,
and so praise Him.
He saw that all things were good, and He did not enjoy
them.
He saw that all things were beautiful and he did not want
them.
His love is not like ours. His love is unpossessive.
His love is pure because it needs nothing.

I pray that today, you welcome the season of Lent with an expectant heart that waits on the Lord. The unpossessive lover and giver of all.

Grace and Peace.

Winter Twilight Zone

2010-02-12T08:12:00.007-06:00

Where in the world are we?!
Sweet little Mertens woke up to 6+ inches of snow his morning.
Stepping outside, the silence is other-worldly and beautiful.

snowy paws

Happy Birthday Duke

2010-02-11T16:34:00.010-06:00

Precious Duke,
Happy one year birthday with me and Ray.
I desperately waned a precious puppy, but your father is allergic.
We are certain God brought you to us . . . you without a home and being hypo-allergenic.
What a perfect fit for us!
We love you so much and are blessed by the joy your spirited personality brings to us every day.

The first day we met!

Looking like Trick-or-Treat

Happy Birthday mom and dad.

After climbing your first mountain.

Checking out the new camera.

loving the snow!

We love you, Duke!

Snow Day Sabbath

2010-02-11T15:57:00.011-06:00

The Heavens proclaim the glory of God.
The skies display his craftsmanship.
Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known.
They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard.
Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world.
Psalm 19: 1-4

Today Ray and I are praising God for a beautiful and peaceful snow day sabbath.

Letters To God - Movie Trailer (2010)

2010-01-25T10:25:00.001-06:00

I'm so excited for my sister's band Addison Road. Their song hope now is the theme song for the new movie Letters to God (the same company who made Fireproof).

Hawaii

2010-01-10T21:34:00.014-06:00

We were so blessed to visit my sister in brother in-law in Hawaii over the new year!

Just a few highlights . . .

Changed.

2009-12-13T16:38:00.005-06:00

(I should be studying for my last two finals, but alas, I choose to blog.)

These pictures, what do they mean to you? Anything?
I took these two pictures on a trip to Scotland during college and while I was there, standing at this soul-silencing landmark, I had no understanding of its significance.

Now, I do.

I've been "in ministry" my entire life.There are a total of 11 people in my immediate family(s), and between us, nearly 20 higher education degrees in Christianity/religion/practical theology, not to mention 2 famous Christian singers. Think it's safe to say that I was pretty familiar with seminary before beginning my own journey, and thus not honestly expecting to change much. Pretty much a pro at this by now, right?

Wrong.
And never more thankful to be.

Over the last 16 weeks I have come to know, learn and understand more about the Trinity, what I believe about character of God, the beautiful mess of a Church, and the fallen/fabulous people she consists of.

16 weeks later, I understand the importance of those pictures, the events that surrounded the destruction of that cathedral and its deep impact on Christian history.

After nearly a lifetime of following Christ I can confidently (or maybe just more coherently) explain and identify my theological beliefs.

I use to hate theology. Thought it was annoying and divisive.

****************************************

This semester I have fallen absolutely and irrevocably in love with teaching aerobics classes. Turbokick, yoga, spin. My loves.

Teaching brought something to life in me and now I can't imagine my life without helping people discover and maintain healthy, active living.

In the past 16 weeks not only have I learned more about and been invited into a deeper relationship with the Trinity, I have experienced an awakening of my soul, body and spirit to who I truly am in Christ. I have begun to understand that the gifts and passions God builds into us are not to put on the back burner while we try to find a "real" profession that will financially sustain and be socially acceptable, but rather, are freeways to a life of true joy experienced in Christ, as unique members of his kingdom. And although following these passions can be scary, because let's be honest, when you love something you don't want to lose it, the life they bring outweighs the fear.

So, I'm currently in the process of creating (with my Dean's blessing) a completely new concentration on health and family wellness ministries (which I'll write much more about soon).
Man, who knew so much could change in 16 weeks?

So, this is what it's like to be home? I like it here :)

Stage 5.

2009-12-03T21:01:00.004-06:00

Exactly one month ago today Ray and I stood paralyzed in shock and utter devastation as we unexpectedly and unwilling realized we were entering into the first truly tragic experience and season in our marriage.

1. Denial.

2. Anger.

3. Bargaining.

4. Depression.

5. Acceptance.

Kubler-Ross. What a genius.

I handed in my final papers to finish the first semester of seminary today. It is common for practicing Christians to enter into to seminary and lose the ability to easily identify the presence of the Holy Spirit in scripture and daily life, simply because we are constantly and critically discussing, reading, writing and forming our beliefs and understanding of the Trinity and of scripture.

God held me in my denial.

Grief is difficult to approach when you are the bystander, the friend, the community. It's true, most of the time people simply don't know what to do or say. As a majority, we are not well versed in counseling techniques (nor are we all supposed to be). And, with incredible hearts and an honest desire to do well, you end up hearing a lot about it being "apart of God's plan," "possibly too much exercising," or "that gluten-free vegetarian diet."

God was present in my anger.

Bargaining. It does not work. Though it is some times the only "rational" action to take.

God quietly listened as I begged and bargained.

There is a scene in the film Titanic (no, not that one) that came to mind as I found myself again in the presence of God, broken, weeping and without words. As freezing water is pounding in on Jack and Rose, they find themselves in a hall with no apparent way out as the water is rising faster than they can breathe. For a moment all they can do is simply stand frozen, staring disillusioned at the water that is crushing them. Depression.

God (in many forms) stood with me, holding my hand, as the threatening waters raged.

Acceptance. As the sun crept over this morning's horizon, God's new mercies lifted a weight off my soul and gave me a taste of joy. Joy that disappeared four weeks ago today.

While Ray and I have deeply mourned the death of our first child, we lifted our eyes hills, knowing where our help comes from. Hallelujah it comes from Yahweh. THE maker of heaven and earth. As we enter into the Advent season, we continue to lift our eyes to hills, in preparation and gratitude of the coming of another child; our salvation.

Great is His Faithfulness, O God, My Father

2009-11-06T06:58:00.004-06:00

LA . . . I can't stop singing Miley Cyrus

2009-10-19T08:58:00.006-05:00

So I'm currently in LA recruiting for Truett. Thought I would give a famous person update.

Okay, I'll be honest. I watch a totally crap TV show. And I love it.

Yes, yes, I'm a fan of One Tree Hill.

As I got the plane at LAX yesterday and started walking through the terminal, I physically bumped into this guy
That's right . . . . James Lafferty. Whoo. I wish I could report that I was totally cool and not starstruck in the least but that would be false. After trying to mumble "sorry" (with little success) I'm alomst positive I just stood there with my mouth hanging open.

Real cool, Sarah. Good job.

Then I proceeded to the Enterprise shuttle, which led to a massive 45 minute long line to wait for a car. As soon as these two guys got on the bus I thought "okay these guys are famous. I've seen them, but I have no clue where or when." Then I convinced myself they were just guys with designer clothes and great skin, because famous people don't rent their own cars, do they?

Why yes, they do.

Michael Ian Black

Michael Showalter

They were nice.

Although seeing famous people is like my own personal E!News broadcast, I think I'd rather see the mountains, which you can't see due to massive, suffocating amounts of smoggy pollution.

Saying No and Marriage

2009-10-11T18:53:00.002-05:00

Saying no is not something I am particularly good at, especially when it comes to being involved in extra-curricular activities.

Although I think I've always been the over-involved type, I like to blame this habit on Baylor; the most over-active, extra-curricular-crazed University in the nation. Baylor taught me how to be busy and be good at it. I thrive on schedules planned down to the minute; bouncing from one activity to the next, deliriously tired and blissfully happy. I think this kind of life style is great, fun and formative . . . as a single college student.

In a family, a marriage, a relationship where your schedule and desires are not the only things to be considered, it is unhealthy and damaging.

I knew this would be a struggle for me when Ray and I married. Being back on campus this semester I have been reminded why. I LOVE leading, ministering, teaching. Just in the past few weeks I have been asked to serve on Truett's recruitment team, teach a yoga/positive image class for a dorm community on campus, lead a spiritual life youth ministry team and help the counseling center head-up their new champagne on relationship abuse awareness.

On Sunday mornings before church I have started watching a show called Marriage Today, with Jimmy and Karen Evans. Although we have some vastly different views on "god-given" roles in marriage, they give some incredible tools for Christian marriage. The Evans have experienced difficult problems in their relationship, nearly divorced and now minister to the Church by talking through the declining state of marriage and family in our nation and teaching Christians ways in which we can fortify our marriages against similar sins and destruction.

The discussion this morning focused on the way Christian couples and their families have fallen into the unhealthy habit of our society . . . being over-scheduled and over plugged-in to technology. They showed how the stress from a severely over-active life style leaves us emotionally drained and ultimately unavailable to be actively involved in relationships with one another. They reminded me this morning that God created a rhythm in our weeks and our days. Part of that rhythm invites, requires and even demands rest, restoration and sabbath.

The more I have become aware of our society's dismissal of sabbath, the more I have been determined to live out my marriage and raise my family with and in a different mindset. For me, this means I have to learn to slow down. I have to realize that I spend 10 hours a week on the road, I'm in graduate school full-time and I work part-time. If I want to continue to be healthy personally and in my relationship with my husband, I have to say no. Even if it is to things love, things that are good and life-giving. If I want to have a a healthy marriage and raise children in a mindset that differs from our society, I have to start now, today. I have to learn live in and receive the God ordained gift of sabbath.

Your Mercies are New Every Morning

2009-09-29T19:06:00.004-05:00

I took my first Christian History test today. Everything from Jesus to 1204 . . . no big deal. Actually, I was thankful to find my hours of studying paid off or at least I think it did.

Seminary has been incredible, but I must admit that there have been few if any days I have left history and scriptures classes encouraged by humanity.

Ever read through the Old Testament? I'll be honest, I've never sat down and read books through the way they are meant to be read.

Holy cow. I.t. i.s. a.w.f.u.l.

Story after story God's people, people he loves and forgives over and over again, people he delivers and rescues when they whine and cry only to forget him mere verses later, fill the pages. Want to read about incest, horrific rape, brutal violence, adultery, and every other awful thing you can think of? Don't go rent a R-rated film, read the Old Testament. Humanity . . . we're not looking so good.

Christian history . . . not any better. Fights, torture, schism.

It has left me noticing myself in the stories and wanting to hide. At the same time, it has helped me realize that our universal church is not in a new "off and lost" place. Rather, we are in the same place we have always been; making choices that bring us away from the Trinity, choosing (like the Israelites) to worship other Gods (money, work, "success") and so quickly forgetting the one who came to restore us.

Although the track record of Christians is hardly impressive, I have been overwhelmed by the undeniable grace, patience, and unconditional love God has and continues to give to his lost, selfish, conditional children.

Praise you God, for your mercies ARE new every morning and I would surely not survive without them.

life-giving

2009-09-26T09:43:00.002-05:00

I'm a big believer in intentionally seeking out things and people that give you life and fill you up.

Although seminary has been difficult and stretching, God has responded to my need to be filled by others in an overwhelming way.

Ray and I joined a life group of young married couples a few weeks ago. Most of the group has been together for several years, yet they warmly welcomed us and have made us feel like family. They have the incredible (healthy) ability to go from have having fun, to being completely vulnerable and honest.

The joy that characterizes our new-found community and the passionate commitment each couple has to one another fills me with life.

Praising The Provider today and grateful for His love.