Windows of Thy Grace

Dear Zandy

2011-06-17T11:12:00.003-05:00

Dear Zandy,

Last night we rocked and you smelled like sticky banana and white powder. You laid head on chest, jerked back, smiled. You stuck pudgy finger up my nose. We laughed. You again laid head on chest, just for a moment. Rearing back, like you always do, you stretched your neck long, eager and waiting, and my lips kissed and tickled you. We laughed. Your head again rested on me, and we rocked. You found a lion on quilt behind me and made soft roar. We laughed. I wondered if this was too much fun before bed, but I laid you down and you smiled. Content. Your cup was filled and I left your room. Eager for tomorrow.

Love,
Momma

The Garden and the Cross

2011-04-21T14:03:00.002-05:00

Do you know what kills pride?
Do you know what melts hearts?
I do.
Do you know what can make a hard soul weep?
Do you know what can make the orphan sing?
I do.
Look upon the Christ who came.
A wee babe - humbled in the flesh of humanity.
Look upon the Christ who wept bitter tears,
served prideful men, washed ugly feet,
bled perfect blood and uttered not a single
word of complaint.
Do you know what lifts my head and makes me feel
the love of God?
Look upon the Christ. Yes, fix your eyes upon the
garden and the cross.
Do you know my answer when tragedy breaks hearts
and darkest clouds are overhead?
Look upon the Christ. Just look upon my Christ.

Martin Luther on Parenthood

2011-02-04T10:07:00.000-06:00

Now observe that when that clever harlot, our natural reason . . . , takes a look at married life, she turns up her nose and says, “Alas, must I rock the baby, wash its diapers, make its bed, smell its stench, stay up nights with it, take care of it when it cries, heal its rashes and sores. . . ?” [LW 45:39]

What then does Christian faith say to this? It opens its eyes, looks upon all these insignificant, distasteful, and despised duties in the Spirit, and is aware that they are all adorned with divine approval as with the costliest gold and jewels. It says, O God, because I am certain that thou hast created me as a man and hast from my body begotten this child, I also know for a certainty that it meets with thy perfect pleasure. I confess to thee that I am not worthy to rock the little babe or wash its diapers, or to be entrusted with the care of the child and its mother. How is it that I, without any merit, have come to this distinction of being certain that I am serving thy creature and thy most precious will? O how gladly will I do so, though the duties should be even more insignificant and despised. Neither frost nor heat, neither drudgery nor labor, will distress or dissuade me, for I am certain that it is thus pleasing in thy sight. . . . God, with all his angels and creatures is smiling—not because the father is washing diapers, but because he is doing so in Christian faith.[LW 45:39-40]

Remember to Remember

2011-02-04T08:02:00.002-06:00

My good friend Ruth always says, "We need to remember to remember," when referring to the goodness of God or His Truth. Remembering is a holy process through which our hearts dwell on God's care of us and leads to rejoicing. The opposite would be forgetting to remember the good things God does for us daily, leading us to despair and unbelief.

“Don’t be dejected and
sad, for the joy of the LORD is your
strength,” (Nehemiah 8:10).

Remembering the goodness of the Lord (be it a good cup of coffee, laughing with a friend, or a deep moment with Jesus) keeps me strong as I go about my pilgrim journey towards HOME.

"Father, help me remember to remember!"

Random Things

2010-11-14T21:09:00.004-06:00

I have so much going on. Here's a list of some things happening with us.

-We're changing churches! A new pca plant has started right in our hometown of Helena, and we're super excited about joining them to impact God's Kingdom.

-I want to get a pick-up for my violin. I want my violin to be louder without the hassle of playing in a mic (feedback issues, etc.).

-Alexander is the sweetest, cuddliest, most adorable little muffin that ever lived. ;) We're enjoying being mommy and daddy to him.

-I am currently reading The Nanny Returns and When Helping Hurts. The latter is a very informative book on helping the poor.

-Justin wants to get a lap steel guitar. (You know the Hawiian sounding instrument--Justin says it's "country.")

-School is presently overwhelming me! I have a stack of papers to grade, and they are taking me FOREVER! Pray for me!

-My friend Molly is still living down the street even though she was supposed to move months ago! This has been such a blessing to me (though I do feel for Nate and his long drive!). Molly and I are going to make scones to take to our respective Thanksgivings next week. She's the best!

-I am doing a Beth Moore Bible Study and it is so rich. I am really learning a lot and have enjoyed the structure of a workbook.

-I recently visited Whole Foods and I LOVE this store! I wish everyone could shop in this European-like store. I felt like I was transported to a different country! It was like all of the specialty shops in France rolled into one store. Too bad it's 35min from my house and a dozen eggs costs $6! I'm still going to try to go once or twice a month.

-I really want to go see a movie in the movie theater. My last movie was during the summer (Twilight saga).

-Some friends of mine are joining me in our own "Secret Church" night hopefully in December. We're planning on listening to the Holy Spirit Secret Church. We're doing this because tickets for the real Secret Church sold out in 6 minutes! So we decided to make our own. :)

-Justin is playing along to a country song on his banjo as I'm typing this. He's standing in front of me serenading me with his twangy thumb picking style. I love it.

Good night.

Eat, Pray, Love

2010-08-13T22:37:00.002-05:00

Tonight I watched the move Eat, Pray, Love starring Julia Roberts. I have never seen a movie quite like it. I think I really liked it, but I'm still processing. There were moments I thought, "When is this going to end?" and moments I thought, "This may be one of the best movies I've ever seen."

Julia plays Liz, who is on a journey to find out who she is and what makes her happy--her "balance." She learns about pleasure vs. American "entertainment" in Italy--the slowing down and enjoying of life's good things. She learns about listening to herself, forgiving herself, and healing in India. In Mali, she learns to love without fear (or in spite of fear). In the end, she makes you want to go on your own journey of self-discovery.

Some of my favorite quotes include:

"This baby is demon possessed." "No, I think she's just teething." "Same thing."

"Ruin is a gift. Ruin leads to transformation."

"Sometimes you have to forego the balance in your life for a time to pursue love."

"God is present in me as me." -- What do you think about that? In a sense, I guess that's true. God lives in us, He's our Creator, and the totality of who we are is from Him, for Him, and because of Him.

Amidst the guru worship, you can find universal Truths that apply to everyone. You can learn from Liz as she mourns and grows--miserable yet grasping for hope. And she finds her hope from several small communities that she forms in each place she goes. People who love her and accept her. This is what we are made for!

She finds joy in leaving behind a miserable life to become temporarily more miserable but stronger, braver, and truer to herself in the end. Everyone wants to be known and loved. Everyone wants to be happy. Liz finally meets people who know her well and love her as she is.

As I viewed the beautiful sunsets and ocean views present in the film, the common grace of God astounded me. What beauty He allows us to enjoy! What joy there is to be had in the pleasures of life! It gives a glimpse of heaven. When everything will be made right, and we will all worship the right Person. I can be so judgemental and think that I have all the answers. I enjoyed learning about God, myself, and humanity tonight from a medicine man in Mali and a struggling woman who made hard choices in an effort to find peace.

Put on love

2010-08-04T18:44:00.002-05:00

I have been greatly blessed of late by reading the Message Bible. (modern translation by Eugene Peterson) I have laughed with Paul, wept with Jesus, and enjoyed God's message to me in a new way. Here are some of my favorite passages...

from Psalm 100
"For God is sheer beauty, all generous in love, loyal always and forever." Amen!

"I'm on your side. You're not alone." Paul to the Colossians (convicted me about my attitude toward others--I want them to feel this from me)

"Everything finds its purpose in Jesus."

We are "woven into a tapestry of love, in touch with everything there is to know of God [which gives us] minds confident and at rest, focused on Christ (who contains the richest treasures of wisdom and knowledge)."

from Psalm 18
"God is the castle in which I live, my rescuing knight. God made my life complete when I placed ALL the pieces before him."

"But because God was so gracious, so very generous, here I am."

"Awaken to the holiness of life."

"Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort."

"Let Christ displace worry at the center of your life."

I was struck also while reading Mark 14 that at the very first Lord's supper, Jesus thanked God as he broke the bread and poured the wine--symbolizing the breaking of his body and the pouring out of his blood. All of our suffering is redeemed by God. If Jesus can thank God for the greatest suffering that ever took place on Earth, can I thank him for all of my suffering?

5 months ago

2010-06-23T16:50:00.004-05:00

Five months ago I had never seen you smile. I didn't know what your hungry cry sounded like. Making you laugh wasn't my favorite past-time. My time didn't belong to you. I could eat a sandwich without taking 5 breaks. I never ran around the house to get things done. I hadn't ever given you one kiss. You didn't know how to roll over or touch your feet. Your two bottom teeth where still tucked away beneath your gums.

Five months ago I thought I knew what being a mother was, but I had no clue what I was about to enter into. This little man demands my all--and I want to give it to him--he aks me to lay down my own desires for his, twenty-four hours a day. But when he opens his mouth to let me know that he wants to give his momma a wet, sloppy kiss, my heart melts into a thousand pieces. Sometimes we just stare at each other and smile or laugh.

Five months ago I didn't know that God loves me in the same way that I do now. I long for him in ways I couldn't imagine five months ago. Because this all-encompassing, never-ending, joy-filled, heart-wrenching thing we call motherhood pushes me into the arms of my heavenly Father to know him--not asking for anthing else besides Him. And He's everything.

My Sweetie

2010-05-28T15:41:00.002-05:00

Smiles and Grammy Time

2010-05-03T22:02:00.002-05:00

Zandy man's Baptism

2010-04-26T16:42:00.000-05:00

We had a beautiful day yesterday. Alexander's baptism was so special. I'm so thankful for the people who traveled near and far to celebrate with us! Corey and Anne-thanks for coming even after a difficult moving weekend. Linda and Ken-thanks for waking up super early and braving Taledega weekend traffic. Kaitie-thanks for taking great pictures and figuring out a way to be here. Mom and dad-thanks for making the trip (again!) and helping with the food. Molly and Nate-thanks for representing Old Cahaba! We filled up a pew at church and had a great time barbequeing afterwards at our house. My friend Sarah made a beautiful cake for the occasion with Alexander's name and a sheep. What a wonderful day!

Corey's Pinning On Ceremony

2010-04-15T11:08:00.001-05:00

From 2010-04-14 Alexander and OTS

Click on image to watch video.

Corey's OTS Graduation!

2010-04-14T17:17:00.001-05:00

What a joy it was to see my brother become a 2nd Lt. in the US Air Force! I was so proud. It was Alexander's first time staying in a hotel and foregoing all crib naps! He was awesome. That 3 month mark really is golden...Here are some pictures of visits with my friend Mary and my mom-in-law plus Corey's OTS graduation.

Alexander's First Easter

2010-04-04T21:56:00.002-05:00

Today was a special day. Today was Alexander's very first celebration of the resurrection of Jesus! He wore a special outfit, received various gifts and cards, and went to an Easter service at church. (He made it through roughly three songs and the benediction. ;) Side note: next week is his first try in the nursery! He also went with us to our friends' house (Molly and Nate's) for a delicious lunch. Here are some pics! I hope you all had a joy filled Easter, too!

Justin to the Rescue

2010-04-01T19:58:00.002-05:00

Last night I got violently ill--I have NEVER been this sick before. Honestly, Justin felt worse for me than when I gave birth (and I would have rather given birth again than have this bug!). So Justin stayed home today and took care of the baby and me. I felt so weak all day, but I was able to keep down some soup and ginger ale. Justin just went to the store to get some Gatorade, jello, and more ginger ale. The check-out lady said, "Oh, no! Is someone sick?" ;) So far Justin and Alexander have escaped the horrors...Thank goodness the worst appears to be over.

Baptism Suit

2010-03-25T23:02:00.003-05:00

Here are some pictures of Alexander in the precious suit his great-grandmother Gigi made for him. What a handsome little man!

At Alexander's 2 month check-up he was in the 90% for length and 50% for weight! He now weighs 11 pounds and 12 and 1/2 oz! He is growing so fast!

Ode to Grandpas

2010-03-25T22:49:00.004-05:00

I never had a grandpa and always wanted one. When I married my husband I finally got to experience the joy of having a grandpa (Justin's Papa is a great one!). Now I get to see my son with his grandpa and it is so sweet! He LOVES his grandpa and his grandpa LOVES him. I have had a lot of helpers come since Alexander was born, but I must say that my dad has gone above and beyond the call of duty. Here are some ways he has helped me out:

-played, cooed, sang, danced, hummed, and did whatever was needed to help calm my sweet, challenging wee babe
-vacuumed (not just cursory vacuuming but the kind where you move EVERY piece of furniture and item on the floor)
-helped me clean the bathrooms (yuck--my least fav chore)
-went to the grocery store and made SO many yummy dishes for us (including shrimp scampi, spagetti and meatballs, homemade cinnamon buns, homemade apple cake, fresh baked bread, roast chicken and stuffing (with gravy of course:), NY strip steaks, and chicken noodle soup)
-babysat
and (drum roll please...)
-got up with Alexander every night so that I could SLEEP!

Needless to say, I'm so thankful for this special time with my dad. Dad- thanks for all of your help and for loving my son so much. We love you, too!

What JOY!

2010-03-16T12:04:00.004-05:00

God is good and does good. He uses all of life to recreate us and bring joy by making us more like him. Everyone told me that motherhood reveals sin like nothing else and I have seen this already in Alexander's 8 short weeks of life. My pride has been astounding-how glorious that the faithful One loves me enough to show me and change me. For some reason I thought I was going to be "super mom." Other people's struggles wouldn't be mine! I would be able to breastfeed, get up in the night without complaining, give of myself unselfishly around the clock--all while cooking dinners, keeping up the house, and loving my husband well.

In a Sandra McCraken song she sings, "Do you think he never reproves me? What a false friend he would be! If he never, never told me of the sin which he must see!" How true! I believe that God loves me too much to let me believe I don't need him and to let me carry on in my pride. He is sovereign over all things and I'm thankful that breastfeeding was a nightmare, I couldn't make it on my own feeding him at night, and I would hand the baby to Justin when he got home and run to take a bath for some alone time. Thank God that he is a friend of sinners! How I grieved over my failures before seeing the mercy, love, grace, joy, and freedom that God gives those who humble themselves before the cross. My little baby is such a gift. I love him more and more everyday. I'm so thankful for the people around me who love him too. I'm so thankful that "love came down to earth." May I remember this Easter how desperately I need him and how little I can do on my own.

“When Love Came Down to Earth”
Words & music by Stuart Townend

When Love came down to earth and made His home with man
The hopeless found a hope, the sinner found a friend
Not to the powerful, but to the poor He came
And humble, hungry hearts were satisfied in Him

What joy, what peace has come to us
What hope, what help, what love

When every unclean thought and every sinful deed
Was scourged upon his back and hammered through his feet
The Innocent is cursed, the guilty are released
The punishment of God on God has brought me peace

Come lay your heavy load down at the Master’s feet
Your shame will be removed, your joy will be complete
Come crucify your pride and enter as a child
For those who bow down low He’ll lift up to His side

Photo shoot with Kaitie

2010-01-26T20:36:00.002-06:00

Kaitie came for a quick visit yesterday and we had a photo shoot today of Alexander! He was such a good sport and Kaitie took some great pictures. We had such a fun visit! Thanks for coming, Kait!

Hospital Photo

2010-01-19T14:22:00.001-06:00

He's here!

2010-01-18T12:31:00.003-06:00

Alexander came last Wednesday. My labor started around 2am. I must have cried out in pain because the first thing I remember is Justin asking, "Why are you waking me up?" I tried to go back to sleep but couldn't, so I walked around and we started timing my contractions. After two hours, we decided this was probably the real thing so I took a shower and we started getting ready to head to the hospital. We had the Cosby show on and I cooked up some chicken that I had taken out of the freezer so it wouldn't go bad. :) Justin blew up my exercise ball to use as a labor ball and I'd sit on that while having contractions. We called the doctor at 6am and she said to come on to the hospital. We arrived shortly before 7am and found out that the hospital was so full I'd have to wait for a bed! I labored for a while in the "daddy" waiting area (not fun) and finally got a room. We found out I was already 4-5cm and 100% effaced and my water broke the first time I was checked! I labored for about an hour more before receiving my epidural. The nurse estimated a 2pm delivery. However, every time they checked me I was several cm more dilated and by 10am I was ready to push! Everything happened so fast! Alexander arrived at 11:14am and is the joy of our hearts! He's so precious and couldn't be any cuter. We are cherishing this time with him. Here are some pictures of the little guy.

So close!

2010-01-10T17:21:00.002-06:00

Look at how close my sweet pea is to coming home (see lilypie above)! We're so excited! It's weird to remember when it used to say 245 days and now it's down to 8! I'm enjoying these last days of being pregnant, but I'm ready to hold and meet the little guy (who doesn't feel super little anymore!). Maybe my next post will be about his birthday...;)

Christmas

2010-01-04T17:09:00.005-06:00

We had so many fun Christmas celebrations this year. Justin and I couldn't travel because I'm so close to my due date, so people came to visit us! Justin's parents came on Christmas Day, but I never got out my camera-sad! Here are some pics from other celebrations.

Christmas Eve
We went to the candelight service at our church and then had our friends Nate and Molly over for a Swedish Smörgåsbord. We had such a great time! (Molly can't ever keep her eyes open when my camera flashes;).

We celebrated Christmas with my side of the family on New Year's Eve. Here, dad is making me laugh so hard!

presents for Alexander

dad, Justin (with his new robe), Corey

Happy New Year Alexander!

2010!

Belly Pics 3rd Trimester

2010-01-04T17:01:00.001-06:00

37 Weeks

36 Weeks

35 Weeks

School Baby Shower

2010-01-04T16:11:00.002-06:00

My class threw me such a special shower! We had a delicious lunch, and the duck theme was so cute. Groups of students decorated each table with different ducks (pictured is the head table with Justin the king duck, Lisa the teacher duck, and Alexander the baby duck). They showered me with gifts, prayers, and blessings. The "blessings book" they gave me is so special. Students, parents, and staff wrote words of encouragement and their prayers for me and the baby. It was a day I will treasure always.

Chicco Stroller!

2009-11-21T18:15:00.004-06:00

Grammy and Gramps bought Alexander a new Chicco stroller! We love the neutral, green color, and it is a soft and smooth ride. :)

Gramps and I put it together...........

We're ready!

Baby Showers!

2009-11-14T15:48:00.007-06:00

Birmingham Shower 11/14
Molly, Whitney, Marion

Ruth made Alexander a beautiful, blue blanket!

Mary Claire and Emory were the official gift-givers :)

Atlanta Shower 11/7

cake Sandy made

Justin's mom gave me Justin's little red baby cap! So sweet!

Aunt KT loves Alexander!

My sister Emily and me

I have felt the love of God for me and baby through the love and generosity of friends and family the last two Saturdays! My first shower was in Atlanta and the second was today here in Birmingham. They were both such fun and great reminders of God's love, provision, and care.

Nursery in Progress

2009-10-25T21:33:00.004-05:00

Alexander's organic crib mattress--super huge blessing from Aunt Emmy and Uncle Matt! My grandmother's baby quilt is hanging on the crib. She made one for each of her grandchildren before she passed away, and it's finally time to use it!

Mom bought Alexander 2 Georgia outfits so he'll be ready to watch the games with Daddy next fall. :)

My mom came to help me work on Alexander's room a few weeks ago, and we got a lot accomplished! We put together the crib, washed all of his clothes (in special baby detergent), and spent 3 hours at Babys R Us tweaking my registry and having fun. Here are some pictures of the progress made thus far...

Planting Season

2009-10-25T21:23:00.004-05:00

Justin and I FINALLY found a garden center with a worker who could answer our questions and help us learn how to landscape our yard! We've wandered through Lowes, Home Depot, Ace, Helena Landscape Supply, etc. only to become frustrated and give up. On Saturday, we went to "The Garden" on Morgan Rd. and the owner (a sweet older man named David) told us about all of the possible bushes we could plant and went above and beyond to help us out! We will definitely be going back there in the spring! Justin worked so hard on Saturday making our front bed look really good. Here are some pics of him hard at work. We planted some pretty red bushes and three gardenias.

27 Weeks Pregnant

2009-10-18T15:36:00.002-05:00

Alexander's kicks are getting a lot stronger! This week I have my doctor's appointment on Friday and I'll be checked for gestational diabetes (I have to fast the night before and drink a "lovely breakfast shake"). I may also be given my RH- shot. I'm taking the whole day off so Justin and I will eat lunch together afterwards. :) My second trimester is quickly coming to a close (only 1 week left!). I've really enjoyed the "golden trimester," but I'm thankful to be getting closer to meeting this little guy.

Belly Pics 24 Weeks

2009-09-27T19:15:00.003-05:00

Updates:

-We're leaning towards the name Alexander.

-He kicks like crazy! Justin can feel him moving, too!

-I'm six months pregnant.

Baby Boy 20 Weeks!

2009-08-30T19:58:00.000-05:00

It's a BOY!

2009-08-25T18:40:00.002-05:00

Sweet, baby Driver is a he! We're so excited, and we're thrilled that he's thriving in my belly! He's healthy and doing well in all areas and is very active! I can't wait to meet him and see his precious face.

18 Weeks

2009-08-17T18:35:00.003-05:00

I think I've "popped!"

Visiting Matt and Em

2009-08-11T17:45:00.003-05:00

View from the back of house (Mount Vernon)

Em and me in front of Mount Vernan

Em and Matt

Em, George, Martha

We had such a lovely visit with Em and Matt at their house in Falls Church, VA. We went to Mount Vernon, ate Matt's homemade pizza (yum!), went out for Chinese food, visited Em and Matt's Church, and played a bunch of fun games we had never heard of (we've since bought one of them ourselves!). It was a great finish to our trip. We drove along the Blue Ridge Trail for a little bit on our way home and made it to Helena in one day! Overall, we had a wonderful time!

Road Trip Part 3

2009-08-10T11:28:00.005-05:00

Ashlawn-Highland garden

Justin with statue of Monroe in background

Grounds of Ashlawn Highland (James Monroe's House)--right down the street from Monticello

Road Trip Part 2

2009-08-10T10:58:00.004-05:00

We spent our anniversary at Monticello. It was SO beautiful. It was planned out very well and the three tours included with our tickets were fantastic. The gardens were amazing and the inside of the house (no pics allowed) was really interesting. We had a wonderful day! We ate dinner that night at a French bistro in downtown Charlottesville. The streets are pedestrian only so all the tables are outside. THen we got dessert crepes from a little crepe stand! It was my first bought crepe since Paris 6 years ago! Our bed and breakfast experience put our hotels to shame. It was like staying at a friend's house. I slept so much better and the breakfast was very yummy. B&B's are the way to go! Overall, this was our best anniversary yet! Now we're going on 5 years! Wow! Next year we'll need a babysitter...any takers? ;)

Road Trip: Part 1

2009-07-22T23:53:00.003-05:00

inside Johnson's house

J on the balcony

Johnson's backyard

portion of the wall left uncovered with civil war "graffiti" (this is the only section that they said wasn't "too vulgar" to reveal)

Justin and I had such a wonderful time on our anniversary trip. It was a precious time together and with Emily and Matt. We left Tues. July 14 around 9am and drove to Greeneville, TN to see Andrew Johnson's house. We arrived just in time for the last video and tour. We had a great tour guide and learned a lot about the president who followed Lincoln. During the civil war, soldiers stayed in Johnson's house and wrote on the walls (mostly hateful messages as Johnson was a union sympathizer from TN). Here are some pics from the beginning of our trip. (This is the week J thinks I really start to show--so watch for it!)

Kaitie and Ethan's July Trip

2009-07-22T23:41:00.003-05:00

Justin was a big hit with Ethan. He loved J's guitar

and case!

What a cute pair!

Ethan's best pose

J babysat twice and both times we came home, this was how they looked. J also got to change his first poopy diaper! They became good buddies. ;)

First Impressions

2009-07-22T23:20:00.004-05:00

Justin and I decided to start a family in April, and we got quite the surprise when we found out we were pregnant just one month later! Here's the story of how we found out..

We went to my sister's wedding the weekend of May 16, and my brother's finacee asked, "Are you pregnant? When I looked at you I just thought, 'Lisa's pregnant'"! Of course, we didn't believe her but it did leave me with a small amount of suspicion. So before eating a forbidden-for-pregnant-women ham sandwich the Sunday we got back from the wedding, I decided to take a test, which turned out to be positive! Justin and I nearly fell over, and Justin asked me to take another test "just to be sure." When it, too, proved positive, we skipped the sandwiches and headed out to eat to celebrate. We feel so blessed that God has provided a baby for our family. Here's Justin's face shortly after the test...

"Picnik"ed Wedding Picture

2009-06-03T18:18:00.001-05:00

go to picnik.com to try your hand at editing pics!

Anniversary Trip!

2009-05-28T18:28:00.003-05:00

Mount Vernon

James Madison's house

Dinsmore B&B

Monticello

Andrew Johnson's house

Justin and I are going on a roadtrip to D.C. in July. I spent part of today planning out where we're going, and I'm getting really excited! We'll go to Greenville, TN and visit the Andrew Johnson house. Then we'll drive to Charlottesville, VA and spend a few days there visiting Monticello, the James Monroe home, and the Michie Tavern. We'll spend the night at the Dinsmore House Inn B&B. From there we'll drive through Orange, VA to see James Madison's house on our way to Fall's Church, VA, where Matt and Emily live. We'll go to Mount Vernon to culminate our "Presidential Tour":). This is our first real vacation since our honeymoon 4 years ago! Yeah!

Other Wedding Pics

2009-05-26T21:44:00.002-05:00

Emily and Matt Tie the Knot

2009-05-26T20:58:00.004-05:00

mom, me, Em

dad and Em

Justin and dad--rehearsal dinner

dad giving Em to Matt--rehearsal

pre-wedding pics at the chapel

Emily and Matt's wedding was SO beautiful! I had such a lovely time---seeing family, meeting Em and Matt's friends, watching Matt's tears fall as Em walked down the aisle, hearing the rain fall as we sang "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing," seeing the sun shine through the windows of the chapel when the ceremony was over, watching my dad give Emily away--it was just a wonderful weekend. Matt was one of the sweetest grooms I have every seen. Their love for each other was so encouraging, and their pastor did an excellent job at the ceremony of linking their love to Christ's love for his bride. The congregation even got to participate in the ceremony by promising to support the newlyweds. It was a traditional Anglican ceremony. The only hitch was the pastor forgetting to have the congregation sing "In Christ Alone." Justin and Audey took it in stride, though, and everything else went according to plan! I can't wait to visit the married couple in July when Justin and I celebrate our 4th anniverary by taking a roadtrip to D.C.! Here are some shots from the wedding (I took over 300 pics!).

End of the Year

2009-05-26T20:27:00.003-05:00

I finished up my first year teaching fourth grade last Thursday. I had such a wonderful year with these kids. They taught me so much! We had a great party on Thursday before reciting "What Say the Reeds at Runnymede" and Martin Luther's "Hear I Stand" speech at the school assembly. I made the students a slide-show and videos of our favorite songs, recitations, etc. for them to keep. We had fun watching parts of it at the party. They made me a huge "movie basket" as my end of the year gift. It is a really creative idea and will be fun to enjoy! God blessed me deeply with the gift of these 17 children this year, and I am so thankful for the privilege of teaching at Westminster!

Herein is Wonders

2009-03-26T22:02:00.004-05:00

Words taken from Valley of Vision prayer book

Newer Songs

2009-03-25T21:33:00.005-05:00

I got a camcorder, and I recorded some of my newer songs (from last year and a 1/2). Enjoy the wonderful scenes of my house! (No, you don't get to see my ghetto guitar playing, only hear it. :) More songs to come soon.

This song is a hymn found in an article my Bible study leader gave me entitled "The Hidden Hope of Lament." She mentioned that the tune of the song never matches the words so full of sorrow and lament. I took that as a challenge and tried to write music that matched the beautiful, heart-wrenching words. It's called "Hiding in Thee."

Ethan and KT's Visit

2009-03-22T22:47:00.003-05:00

I had such fun celebrating Ethan's first birthday when he and Kaitie came to visit. He tried his first brownie and loved it! He also loved playing with his birthday balloon. Here are some photos of the visit. We had a sweet cuddle time after I changed his diaper. He even pulled me down for a kiss! What a sweet boy!

SNOW!!

2009-03-01T08:53:00.002-06:00

We woke up to a beautiful covering of snow this morning...and it's still coming down!

Corey and Anne Engaged

2009-02-28T17:24:00.002-06:00

dinner with the newly engaged couple

$3 wine--gotta love it

admiring the beautiful ring

Medieval Feasting with Fourth Graders

2009-02-28T17:10:00.003-06:00

On our way to the royal feast

our jester, William

my sweet class

three ladies

sir ben and me

Going to the Chapel (twice!)

2009-02-28T16:53:00.004-06:00

Both my sister and my brother are getting married this summer, and I am SO excited for them! They are marrying people that just fit them perfectly. I have no reservations about them whatsoever. What a blessing! Here are some pictures of looking at Emily's chapel and of me (after helping both brides try on dresses) relive some bridal memories. ;) I'm a nut!

I survived...

2008-10-11T14:20:00.003-05:00

I survived Justin's week of wearing a moustache! On a harder note, I also survived the last two weeks of dealing with a man in my church's suicide. I became very anxious after learning about it. I think it is just hard for me to process what happened. The funeral was really hard. Seeing his 3 month old baby asleep in his mother's arms was really hard. And I just got really anxious because it reminded me that I'm not in control. Jesus has been so faithful to provide people to pray for me and to keep teaching my heart that "He is good and does good."

‘Do not fear, for I am with you;
Do not anxiously look about you,
for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, surely I will
help you,
Surely I will uphold you with my
righteous right hand.’ Isaiah 41:10 NAS

Why should I fear when I have a God like this? He is powerful and good, even in the midst of the greatest suffering. This quote from the book I'm reading with my small group has greatly encouraged me.

In response to humanity’s deepest, heartfelt questions, God sweetly speaks of his sovereignty. “Take heart, I am in complete control. I am the definition of holiness and love. All of my ways are right and true, all of my decisions are best, and I will not rest until my plan has been completed.”
There is comfort in your moment of greatest mystery. There is encouragement in your time of greatest confusion, and hope in your moment of greatest discouragement. Your world is not a world of constant chaos controlled by impersonal forces. Your destiny is not in your hands or in the hands of other people. You are held in the hands of your heavenly Father, who rules everything! You are a child of the King of Kings, and you live under the shadow of his wing. You are part of his plan. That means that the exercise of his power and authority is for your blessing.
You and I can rest in the middle of deep and personal mysteries. We can press on when little around us makes sense. There is reason in the mystery and order in the chaos, because behind it all stands the One in control of it all.
What does this mean for each of us? It means peace when my brain is unable to put it all together. A Christian’s inner peace is never based on his ability to take the teachings of Scripture and figure it all out. Our peace always rests on the presence, power, and character of the Lord. Because he rules heaven and earth according to his wise plan, I need not live in anxiety and fear. God’s absolute sovereignty guarantees the fulfillment of each of his promises to every one of his children. This includes you!

Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands, Paul David Tripp, p. 30

Georgia better win

2008-09-27T19:38:00.002-05:00

All I have to say is Georgia had better win this game! Why? Well, it isn't because I'm a really devout GA fan. I mean I want them to win b/c they're GA. But they have to win b/c Justin made a bet at work with his Alabama co-workers that whoever loses has to wear a mustache for a week! The score is presently 23-0 Alabama, and I'm getting worried...GO DAWGS!

from Bible Study

2008-09-23T22:34:00.003-05:00

I continue to be so blessed by my Bible Study at dear Ruth's house. This year we are reading the book Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands. Ruth has so many quotes memorized; it is really astounding (esp. her knowledge of the word)! Here are a few that came up tonight.

"Faith is trusting in God when life gives you reason not to."
Corrie ten Boom (author of The Hiding Place, which I highly recommend)

"The root of all sin is the suspicion that God isn't good."
Oswald Chambers

"All of our sins can be traced back to pride, unbelief, and self (or p.u.s.)." Gross but true! Apparently, Bob went into great detail about how our sin is like a great boil full of pus waiting to burst, and it bursts forth from pride, unbelief, and (love of) self.
Bob Flayhart (Pastor of Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church in b-ham)

Yummy Salmon Dish

2008-09-20T19:33:00.003-05:00

Justin doesn't even like salmon but we both LOVED this recipe. It sounds weird but it really is delicious (if you like flavorful foods).

Barbeque Saucy Salmon (Rachael Ray)
1 T olive oil
1/4 red onion, chopped
2 T red wine vinegar
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 T tomato paste
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp ground pepper
2 fillets salmon or salmon steaks
salt

Make the glaze: Heat a small saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil then onion, and cook onion 3 min. Add vinegar and cook until reduced by half. Add syrup, tomato paste, Worcestershire, and pepper. Bring to a bubble and simmer.

Meanwhile, start the salmon: Heat up a grill pan over med.-high heat. Drizzle salmon with olive oil and season with salt. Grill (I used cast-iron skillet) for 5 min. and baste liberally with the glaze. Flip salmon and glaze opposite side for 5 more min.

1966 Yearbook Photo

2008-09-15T18:03:00.002-05:00

Thanks, Marisa. That was fun!

Steadfast Patience

2008-09-09T18:29:00.002-05:00

Notes from my pastor last Sunday on James 5:7-12:

Patience in Suffering
7 Be patient, therefore, brothers, [1] until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. 8 You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. 9 Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. 10 As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.
12 But above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation.

-God wants to grow godly character in us. The soil of suffering and adversity yields godly character.

-Patience=self-restraint that does not retaliate

-We must have a determination not to fall away in the face of suffering.

-Jesus's maturity came through suffering.

-To be patient you must have a resolute heart (settled, determined, focused heart).

-We establish our hearts by grace and by the anchor for our souls--the gospel.

-The gospel reminds us how much slack God has given us. We are called to love others in the same way.

Questions:

-Do I believe grace grows best in the soil of suffering?

-Do I see the end and know that patient edurance is worth it?

-What do I expect of God and why?

Blessings

2008-09-06T17:03:00.004-05:00

baby ethan

em and matt (4th of July in Kennesaw)
corey and anne (good times at the coke museum)
mom playing in the olympic park fountains
celebrating justin turning 26 this august with robert and anna

Jesus Keeps

2008-09-05T21:17:00.003-05:00

I'm so thankful that Jesus always loves me. He is the one person I can always count on to love me well and completely and without regard to my behavior. This week the stresses of school and my lack of sleep have caught up with me. I've struggled to be kind and patient to my husband as well as my students. The Lord has used my sweet students to remind me of the great work he is doing and allowing me to be a part of. We pray each morning, and on Fridays we pray for the lost. Hearing their sweet prayers for those unsaved people they know was such a gift to me this morning. God is so faithful to bring us to places and put us in situations where we can't make it without him. I want to love people better and I'm encouraged because Jesus wants me to love people better, too. I'm thankful that in Christ I have hope.

"My memory has no retention, so I forget easily the lessons learned, and thy truths seep away. Give me a broken heart that yet carries home the water of grace."

Fourth Grade

2008-08-20T17:25:00.004-05:00

My students are so precious. I've been teaching at Westminster Classical School for a little over a week now, and I love it! My students are so eager to learn and my school is committed to helping them understand and live out of the gospel. On Monday two of my girls asked if they could sing a song they wrote over the weekend during snack time. Little did I know, it was a song about me! Here's how is goes (after a brief "Somewhere over the rainbow" intro...:)

Lisa Driver

Lisa likes to drive a car.

Lisa likes to eat a bar.

Lisa likes to teach girls,

and in her hair she has some curls!

She also likes to teach boys.

Even if they make some noise.

Lisa likes to look at bugs. [I have them fooled! We're studying bugs.]

She also likes to give some hugs.

Lisa likes to bake a cake,

and spend the day at the lake.

She is smart. She is cool.

We're so glad she's at our school.

Go Mrs. Driver!

The boys, of course, had to respond to the "noise" comment and came up with a cheer of their own. Here's a picture of the two girls who sang. Aren't they cute?

Sad news

2008-08-17T17:14:00.002-05:00

Aunt Clemmie passed away this morning. She had a stroke last night and was brought to the hospital where she was put on life support. She never regained consciousness. Aunt Clemmie was the matriarch of the Walker family in Carrollton, Georgia (Justin's mom's side of the family). She planned all the Thanksgivings and reunions. She was Justin's Papa's brother's wife, which sounds far-removed but they're a very close-knit family. She always had a smile, hug, and welcoming word for me and I'm really going to miss her. She was beautiful at 81.

Poor Arlo!

2008-08-11T19:07:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was a crazy day. Justin and I played at church, as usual, and were planning on going back for the Czech Rep. team's update at 6pm. Instead we got a flat tire on the way home from the Hoover library (best library ever!) and then almost killed our cat while we were eating dinner. Justin's elbow got a little too enthusiastic about his milk and knocked the glass onto our hard, tile floor. Poor Arlo got sliced in the leg in two places and was bleeding all over the carpet! We got him to the garage and called our vet friend. Anyways, we didn't make it back to church and Justin felt so bad for Arlo that he is more certain than ever about our decision to wait to have children..."If I feel this bad for a cat..." What a sweet man:). We love our kitties.

The Kirkpatricks

2008-08-06T21:01:00.004-05:00

These are my Kirkpatrick (Katie and Kristy are sisters) friends from B-ham. They have been such a blessing to me! The top photo is Kristy and me at her wedding to Parker (see next pic). The bottom one is Katie and me. Justin and I played and sang at the wedding, which was in Demopolis, Alabama (a really cute, small town that reminds me of a southern version of the Gilmore Girls' town). Kristy is a nurse and Katie is a teacher at Briarwood.

7- 7 -4 -2

2008-08-05T19:22:00.003-05:00

Apparently I'm a 7-7-4-2 on the Kolbe Test. I had to take this test for my new job. It's not a personality test but rather a test to tell how you instinctively respond to situations and what is stressful for you. There are no "good" or "bad" numbers but all have their strengths and weaknesses. Here's a breakdown of my score:
Fact Finder score (out of 10) 7 = I want to master knowledge before teaching it/talking about it; I want to share what I know; I give detailed, thorough answers

Follow Through 7 = I'm good at systems and organization; I finish what I start

Quick Start 4 = I value innovative ideas but like to minimize chaos; I don't love risks

Implementor 2 = I can imagine what something should be without physically touching it.

The Kolbe guy said most teachers have high Fact Finder and Follow Through levels so I was right on track! He said when kids get high quick start teachers they find them fascinating (ie Kaitie) b/c they're different from the average teacher who LOVES her systems and order! How funny. Playing right into my natural desires for order, I can't wait until I settle into the school year and all the pre-school stuff is over....

Gibson=Joy

2008-08-01T22:20:00.003-05:00

Ever since my husband bought his new, old guitar he's been playing nonstop around the house. I love having him come home and (I realize this sounds super 1950s) play while I'm cooking dinner. It bring me such joy to have a husband who uses his musical talents to honor God. We've been having fun going through the Trinity Hymnal and learning some old hymns. Here he is playing with his brother at our new house. Two of our current trinity favs are "Were you there?" (old spiritual) and "Jesus Keep me near the Cross" (Fanny Crosby).

heaven

2008-07-30T15:43:00.002-05:00

"There have been times when I think we do not desire heaven; but more often I find myself wondering whether, in our heart of hearts, we have ever desired anything else...It is the secret signature of each soul, the incommunicable and unappeasable want, the thing we desired before we met our wives or made our friends or chose our work, and which we shall still desire on our deathbeds, when the mind no longer knows wife or friend or work...All your life an unattainable ecstasy has hovered just beyond the grasp of your consciousness. The day is coming when you will wake to find, beyond all hope, that you have attained it." C.S. Lewis

Glimpses of heaven-
hummingbirds drinking from my butterfly bush outside the kitchen window
looking at justin as he sings to Jesus
admiring my sister
my two cats snuggling
gram's hugs
my dad's swedish buns
holding ethan
making a new kindred spirit friend
cooking a big fancy dinner for people I love
walking along the beach at dusk/dawn

I like John Mayer's new album

2008-07-30T15:19:00.002-05:00

In case that last video left you wanting more...haha! I really have too much time on my hands. When does school start again? These are my fabulous siblings in love. Maybe I should buy this program so I can make videos longer than 5 frames..?

Does anyone else think this is crazy?

2008-07-29T22:10:00.002-05:00

We're floating here on a large ball that has just the right everything for all of life to exist. I try to remind myself of that when I read things in the Bible like animals on arks and donkeys talking. It doesn't seem quite so outlandish when I remember that I'm floating precariously on a huge ball.

2008-07-29T21:37:00.003-05:00

Abby took these pics of me and Justin wandering through UGA's beautiful
Founder's Garden. I made them into this unbelievable video!!! Enjoy.

Can't have it both ways

2008-07-22T19:55:00.003-05:00

So this year has seen its share of changes; namely, our moving to Birmingham from my beloved city Athens. I struggled to see God's plan for me here in this new place when I had no job, friends, or reason to get up in the morning. So after sleeping in as late as my body would let me, God had his way with me and taught me that Jesus is enough. He's more satifying than everything that was taken away from me. I fought hard to remain bitter and resentful but Jesus loves me too much for that. He wrapped up his arms all around me and told me to trust him. Slowly, the dark cloud drifted into someone else's sky and I was left to see the bright mercies of God that spring new each morning for sinners like me. I can't have the joy of both places but I'm being shown that there is something greater that I need that no city or group of people can provide: the love of Christ for me.