Tomorrow I start my 2nd class with The Kings University. (yes, you will probably be seeing me post everytime I have a new class for school. sorry.)
This class is just your basic English/Grammar class. Today I was looking just a quick view of what we will be learning about each week.
Alot of it sounds so basic, stuff that we learned back in 6th grade and before, prepositional phrases, adjectives, adverbs... and such... but I am glad that going back to the basics, and re-learn the fundamentals of English... I think that this will be good, I hope that with this class it will allow me to write better when I am done with it.
I love to write (hense.... why I am writing a blog now.) but sometimes I feel like writing, not only gets your 'thoughts' out on 'paper' at times you let out emotion, dreams, plans, advice, ideas.... sometimes writing things out helps me solve problems or issues... sometimes it only leads you to more questions... sometimes you write for fun, and in an informal manner, and sometimes in a more professional way. I enjoy writing to the extent that when someone reads what I write, I hope that they can get inspired in some form or fashion, and I hope that change can help us among those who need God.
I love to write to tell people things in the Bible, I love to teach, through 'paper'.
I used to help out with the youth at my old church. I thoroughly enjoyoed teaching the kids. I really did. it was some of the most 'growing' times that I personally had- I grew more and more as I kept digging deeper and deeper into information, resources, and such. I would write out my whole lesson, writing down word for word allowed me to really work it out in my head as to how it would sound and what needed to be said next. It helped me alot, I was able to memorize what I was going to say better. writing helped me so much.
Beginning a class for grammar I feel like will be very beneficial, considering it will be definitely something that I will be enjoying it.
I can't wait to relally get the ball rolling on getting classes knocked out :)
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Beware of False Teachers
Matthew 7:15-20
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. 18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.
On more than one occassion I have heard pastors 'preach' - but at times I questioned of their motives of what they were preaching about. One particular pastor that I have heard speak on more than one occasion I have had this feeling that he was standing there on that stage to promote himself, rather than promoting and teaching about God.
The very first sermon that I heard from this particular pastor was about tithing. it was a just a few years ago when I heard the sermon.... what I gathered from the sermon was that if you did not give 10% to the church, then you would not be 'Blessed.' -- the more money that you give to church -- to God- the more that you would be Blessed......
(not something that I learned when I grew up...)
I was taught that whether you put in $1 or $100,000,000,000 then you'd be blessed, it was what was in your heart... I understood though that the church runs on our tides and offerings and such, so it was good to give as much as you could, just so the church would be able to operate. - But it didnt matter how much you should put in that offering plate, just because you put only a small amount or none, didnt mean that God was not going to bless you.
there is a pastor who for several weeks that I had watched him preach, he would continually get on stage and would announce his or his wife's new book... and everyone should buy it... and you (the audience) should tell everyone else that you know about the book, and they should purchase it. when he speaks about this, it doesn't feel right, telling people that they would be 'Blessed' if they bought it.... in the two times that I've seen him promote his or his wife's book, both times he spent a fair amount of time talking about it, what its about, and then repeatedly telling people that they would be blessed if they bought it..... this pastor has a HUGE audience, with thousands of people watching every week, whether that is physically at the various (4) Campuses over the course of many different service times, and not even including the people who watch online... But this pastor uses his power of being a 'pastor' and he has a microphone, and able to talk to thousands of people.
I understand about having a book out, but there is a difference between mentioning your book, or having it on the 'announcements' on a screen or handout, and a different if you promote it by getting up there and say buy this for me, if you do then you will be "blessed"....
This same pastor also claims that he is a prophet. I have never seen him prophesy-- but one day Steve and I were watching his sermon online- and he was trying to get the attendance for EVERYONE to come to see him prophesy - because we would be "blessed"- he gave a few examples that he was successful with prophesying some peoples lives... but he did put out a disclaimer "everyone makes mistakes... so I may get some things wrong...."
understandable... but if you truly have the holy spirit in you to prophesy - then it would be God speaking through you - not you saying something... and if it was God speaking, then it would have been accurate.... just something that sat wrong with us.... since he was claiming to be a fantastic prophet, and everyone would be 'blessed' to come to the event.
another pastor that I have seen was flaunting the fact that he was debt free- built a huge mega church - (which looked a sports stadium than a church) - and flaunting that he once had nothing, but God has blessed him with so much money that he was able to build a huge church, all out of his pocket - and no loans or anything. (why stand on an altar and flaunt of how much money you have?) really?? (didnt sit well with me.) In the same sermon, as I listened I couldnt tell in his message of the points that we should be taking away and what we were really learning, seemed more about his life than anything, and the bible verses that he had, didnt really go with what he was speaking about.
Sometimes you have to be careful when a pastor is giving a sermon, and randomly throwing in Bible verses, for some pastors, they don't give the whole spectrum of the Bible verse -like what the passage was truly about, just because the verse had a certain word or something to supposedly 'prove' their point... at times that bible verse doesn't truly back up that point... When I go back and read the passage... I wonder where the pastor(s) came up with that particular point. They also sometimes 'sugar-coat' things, basically telling you alot of 'feel good' messages, rather than 'stepping on your toes' and really getting 'down and dirty ' in the Bible....
God instructs us that we are to be wary of people who act like one way, but have ulterior motives. We can recognize these people by their 'fruits' - what kind of 'product' or whatnot are these teachers making? we can tell by if they are making a good fruit, then they are good people, but if it is a bad 'fruit' then they are not.
2 Timothy 4:3-5 (The Message)
3-5 You’re going to find that there will be times when people will have no stomach for solid teaching, but will fill up on spiritual junk food—catchy opinions that tickle their fancy. They’ll turn their backs on truth and chase mirages. But you—keep your eye on what you’re doing; accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive; do a thorough job as God’s servant.
I chose the message version of this because I found it more easy to read, and get my point across for this point, but of course feel free to look it up in your own Bible or a different translation.
This particular translation though, it states it quite plainly...
We are on this earth, and while we listen to many different people. And many people have different views, or different motives. We have to figure out for ourselves as far as if that particular person's teaching lines up with our own views--- such as ask yourself, and evaluate to see if that particular person lines up according to the Bible..
Like what 2 Timothy 4:3-5 says - you have to be care ful for people who fill you up on misleading information or teachings... you have to be careful for those people.
We are to continue to be good servants to God, and to spread his Love, as it is intended in the Bible, not because we want to promote ourselves, or because of thinking of our own reputation, but because it is truly in our hearts.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
We remember.
yesterday was the 11th anniversary of the Sept. 11th terrorist attacks. A day that many people will never forget. (Sorry for not posting this yesterday when I should have..)
Here is my story from that day...I know we all have different stories... and we all were doing different things, and many of us will not forget about how or when we heard about the attacks on the World Trade Center that September morning.
I was a freshman in high school and was sitting in my 2nd period Biology class, it was still the 'passing period' but I was already seated and ready for class to begin. The girl that sat next to me walked in - I do not remember her name, but I do remember she was an exchange student from Guam. she was either a junior o senior, but she didnt have a first period, so this class was her first class. she walked in, and was standing taking her backpack off when she asked me "did you hear aobut the plane crash?"
"no...."
she didnt have much information, she didnt know anything really... but I thought to myself... planes crash... whats the big deal.
The bell rang, to signal that everyone should be in the classroom, when a guy in the back of the room asked the teacher if he'd heard what was going on... the teacher was already trying to get on the internet to try and see what was going on.... the internet was apparently packed with people doing the same thing.
the tv's in the classroom were not set up to get outside channels... (or so they said...) my teacher, Coach Foster though, went to his little closet where he had metal coat hangers, proceeded to make an antenae, out of stuff so that way we could watch to see what was going on. other classmates began to help him... he almost had it when the bell rang to signal of class was over...
Walked to my 3rd period... Band.- I guess by this point they had turned on the televisions so that way we could see what was going on.... we watched the television in awe... and wondering what was going on.
Rumors were being spread that the hijackers were going to hit the Dallas trade center...
For the rest of the day all we did was watch the televisions to see what was going on. We watched as the towers fell... and the footage played over and over again of the planes hitting the two towers, and reports and footage of the plane that struck the pentagon, and the plane in that pennsylvania field.
I don't remember the point when I was told it was a terrorist attack, and that Bin Laden was behind it.
I know that it was all new to me, I'd never thought much about the U.S's relationship with other countries and such. From that point I began to look oustide my little world, and really be able to understand that the world is much bigger than what it seems.
Many lives were lost that day. and Many were heroes. too many innocent people lost their lives that day and so many people were brave to go in and rescue people, and help so many people.
Many lives are lost every day - but I think as a country we were able to come together and help each other out, and really the first time for me to see a nation (or at least everything around me) just stop, and be in shock and awe at what was being shown on television and everything.
I remember so well the few days after that- air traffic was stopped- I live in the DFW metroplex, and planes are always in the air, but there was an odd silence that was noticeable- when there suddenly wasnt many planes flying over head.
Hard to believe its been 11 years. Times have certainly changed since then. just because of the those events so many precautions have been set in place for air travel.
We will never forget that day, and I pray for the families that lost someone or was directly effected by those events on that September morning.
Here is my story from that day...I know we all have different stories... and we all were doing different things, and many of us will not forget about how or when we heard about the attacks on the World Trade Center that September morning.
I was a freshman in high school and was sitting in my 2nd period Biology class, it was still the 'passing period' but I was already seated and ready for class to begin. The girl that sat next to me walked in - I do not remember her name, but I do remember she was an exchange student from Guam. she was either a junior o senior, but she didnt have a first period, so this class was her first class. she walked in, and was standing taking her backpack off when she asked me "did you hear aobut the plane crash?"
"no...."
she didnt have much information, she didnt know anything really... but I thought to myself... planes crash... whats the big deal.
The bell rang, to signal that everyone should be in the classroom, when a guy in the back of the room asked the teacher if he'd heard what was going on... the teacher was already trying to get on the internet to try and see what was going on.... the internet was apparently packed with people doing the same thing.
the tv's in the classroom were not set up to get outside channels... (or so they said...) my teacher, Coach Foster though, went to his little closet where he had metal coat hangers, proceeded to make an antenae, out of stuff so that way we could watch to see what was going on. other classmates began to help him... he almost had it when the bell rang to signal of class was over...
Walked to my 3rd period... Band.- I guess by this point they had turned on the televisions so that way we could see what was going on.... we watched the television in awe... and wondering what was going on.
Rumors were being spread that the hijackers were going to hit the Dallas trade center...
For the rest of the day all we did was watch the televisions to see what was going on. We watched as the towers fell... and the footage played over and over again of the planes hitting the two towers, and reports and footage of the plane that struck the pentagon, and the plane in that pennsylvania field.
I don't remember the point when I was told it was a terrorist attack, and that Bin Laden was behind it.
I know that it was all new to me, I'd never thought much about the U.S's relationship with other countries and such. From that point I began to look oustide my little world, and really be able to understand that the world is much bigger than what it seems.
Many lives were lost that day. and Many were heroes. too many innocent people lost their lives that day and so many people were brave to go in and rescue people, and help so many people.
Many lives are lost every day - but I think as a country we were able to come together and help each other out, and really the first time for me to see a nation (or at least everything around me) just stop, and be in shock and awe at what was being shown on television and everything.
I remember so well the few days after that- air traffic was stopped- I live in the DFW metroplex, and planes are always in the air, but there was an odd silence that was noticeable- when there suddenly wasnt many planes flying over head.
Hard to believe its been 11 years. Times have certainly changed since then. just because of the those events so many precautions have been set in place for air travel.
We will never forget that day, and I pray for the families that lost someone or was directly effected by those events on that September morning.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Wedding modesty
A couple of months ago I wrote a post about "what are you wearing"... this kinda ties along with it.
I already purchased my wedding dress... (a bargain at a local thrift store... a whole whopping $25.... Granted I will be making lots of changes to the dress, but I love that I'll be making it 'my own' i just have to get it up to the tailor to figure out what to do.) ANYWAYS....
IN the midst of looking.. (on the internet) for dresses... I fell in love with dresses with lace on it.... and was noticing that there seems to be more options out there... with 'straps' - or 'cap sleeves' and whatnot... (in the past, from my EXTREMELY limited looking seemed like all dresses were strapless or spaghetti straps... which to me,... I was not going to do strapless.. and spaghetti straps... eh...) anyways... so glad that there are more options out there.. however was noticing that on alot of these dresses they had the extremely tight fitting dresses, and the plunging necklines... both of which... I am not a huge fan of,
.
I was watching "say yes to the dress" last night (I dont watch much tv... just wanted to see what this was about...)
i watched a couple of episodes... and a few of the brides that I Saw wanted the super tight dresses, and 'the more the boobs the better' ... the more skin the better.. there was one gown... it was like 'oh my goodness... what in the world....super plunging neckline...
So makes me wonder.. I dont know where that bride held her wedding at... but if she held it in the church... just wonder how she felt when she was up there with the preacher, and saying her wedding vows?
I would feel SOOO awkward. thats just me. though.
A while back I was watching a youtube video of a bride and groom dancing at their wedding reception, where they did a swing dance... the bride, was wearing a very short dress, and as she was dancing it was obvious that her strap of her dress kept sliding off of her shoulder, after almost every move, she had to put her strap back on her shoulder.. (if you're going to change into a different dress for the reception, may be a good idea to make sure you can dance in it... so you don't have a wardrobe malfunction while you are out on the dance floor....
I am not saying that a bride has to wear long sleeves and a high neck and everything, just basically... when you are out there trying on dresses, is that really something you want to wear in front of the preacher, and grandma/ grandpa... mom and dad?
(I know I would NOT like my family to see me in some of those dresses... )
So glad that there are other options out there, so that way brides can have different options for a wedding dress.
I already purchased my wedding dress... (a bargain at a local thrift store... a whole whopping $25.... Granted I will be making lots of changes to the dress, but I love that I'll be making it 'my own' i just have to get it up to the tailor to figure out what to do.) ANYWAYS....
IN the midst of looking.. (on the internet) for dresses... I fell in love with dresses with lace on it.... and was noticing that there seems to be more options out there... with 'straps' - or 'cap sleeves' and whatnot... (in the past, from my EXTREMELY limited looking seemed like all dresses were strapless or spaghetti straps... which to me,... I was not going to do strapless.. and spaghetti straps... eh...) anyways... so glad that there are more options out there.. however was noticing that on alot of these dresses they had the extremely tight fitting dresses, and the plunging necklines... both of which... I am not a huge fan of,
.
I was watching "say yes to the dress" last night (I dont watch much tv... just wanted to see what this was about...)
i watched a couple of episodes... and a few of the brides that I Saw wanted the super tight dresses, and 'the more the boobs the better' ... the more skin the better.. there was one gown... it was like 'oh my goodness... what in the world....super plunging neckline...
So makes me wonder.. I dont know where that bride held her wedding at... but if she held it in the church... just wonder how she felt when she was up there with the preacher, and saying her wedding vows?
I would feel SOOO awkward. thats just me. though.
A while back I was watching a youtube video of a bride and groom dancing at their wedding reception, where they did a swing dance... the bride, was wearing a very short dress, and as she was dancing it was obvious that her strap of her dress kept sliding off of her shoulder, after almost every move, she had to put her strap back on her shoulder.. (if you're going to change into a different dress for the reception, may be a good idea to make sure you can dance in it... so you don't have a wardrobe malfunction while you are out on the dance floor....
I am not saying that a bride has to wear long sleeves and a high neck and everything, just basically... when you are out there trying on dresses, is that really something you want to wear in front of the preacher, and grandma/ grandpa... mom and dad?
(I know I would NOT like my family to see me in some of those dresses... )
So glad that there are other options out there, so that way brides can have different options for a wedding dress.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Why does God have me here?
This morning, I got out of bed... and was extremely exhausted. The past two nights I have had trouble actually getting to sleep.... not something that usually happens. Normally my head hits the pillow and im OUT 10 seconds later. Not the case last night or the night before... I lay there for a long time, before I pull out a book and read, then eventually try to fall back to sleep, and eventually do. (I hope that tonight I will have better luck...) anyways... I was asleep until my alarm went off (i normally wake up a few minutes before my alarm goes off...) and got out of bed... was really dragging... I had to make sure to have my coffee this morning. I got ready for the day, and headed out.
You see the past few days I have felt the need to do more with my blog and need to write more.
This morning as I was driving, was thinking about my future... and why God has me in the position that I do have with my work...I know that he has me where I am for a reason... then this little verse popped in my head
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you, plants to give you hope and future."
Purely words of encouragement right there....
You see... God has a plan. He has it all under control.
I know that God can do some amazing things, and we have to wait patiently for his plans to prosper, it is all a learning and growing experience.
We may think that things should happen at a certain time place, or manner... but when in reality, God has a plan for us to go over certain hurdles and puts us in certain situations so we can grow and learn.
We have to put our full trust in God, and look to Him when we are in the midst of it all and know that he does have great plans for us.
When you put full and complete trust in God, you will begin to have an incredible relationship with Him.
This verse is such a wonderful reminders when you have mornings ( Afternoons, evenings, or in situations) where you say "why in the world am I in this " ... or "I wish something would be different...".
God has a plan, and when the timing is right, He will open that door for you to walk right through. ...
You have to trust Him, and Know that is His plan, and not YOUR plan, though :)
You see the past few days I have felt the need to do more with my blog and need to write more.
This morning as I was driving, was thinking about my future... and why God has me in the position that I do have with my work...I know that he has me where I am for a reason... then this little verse popped in my head
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you, plants to give you hope and future."
Purely words of encouragement right there....
You see... God has a plan. He has it all under control.
I know that God can do some amazing things, and we have to wait patiently for his plans to prosper, it is all a learning and growing experience.
We may think that things should happen at a certain time place, or manner... but when in reality, God has a plan for us to go over certain hurdles and puts us in certain situations so we can grow and learn.
We have to put our full trust in God, and look to Him when we are in the midst of it all and know that he does have great plans for us.
When you put full and complete trust in God, you will begin to have an incredible relationship with Him.
This verse is such a wonderful reminders when you have mornings ( Afternoons, evenings, or in situations) where you say "why in the world am I in this " ... or "I wish something would be different...".
God has a plan, and when the timing is right, He will open that door for you to walk right through. ...
You have to trust Him, and Know that is His plan, and not YOUR plan, though :)
Monday, August 27, 2012
If you do not raise your children... who will?
Something has really struck me over the past couple of weeks... While I do not have children... but several friends of mine do- but something really hit me especially earlier this week....
Parents are supposed to not only just keep their children alive, but to raise them up right. If you do not raise them to have patience, manners, social skills, learning skills (reading, writing, colors, letters, shapes...) then who will? then when you do not model a good christian environment, of Love for you and your spouse... fathers modeling how a man is supposed to treat a lady... and mothers modeling how a woman is to treat a man... (if you don't then what kind of romantic relationships will your son/daughter have or treat others?)
If you teach them and show them the ways of the world, then when they grow older, will they grab the Bible, or will they grab something bad?
I have noticed that some parents throw some kind of electronic device at their children, so that they will entertain themselves, rather than be teaching their children things, and have the television teach them stuff.... and alot of thimees they will put television on to 'cartoons'- rather than something educational and good quality that they can learn from.
I know that it is important for children to entertain themselves at times... but instead of throwing on the television- what about coloring? or an age appropriate puzzle, or other toys... I dont know...
When you throw an electronic device at them, they most likely arent learning anything and they will not know how to communicate with people.
There is a family that I know, their children do not know how to communicate with people... they constantly have some kind of electonic something in their hands and have their head down looking that that, rather than talking... after you ask them some kind of question.--- kids need to learn how to properly communicate.
There was a girl walking down my street the other night. (she looked to be in high school...) YELLING into her cell phone. Steve and I were sitting out there, when all of a sudden we started hearing her-- Cussing at whoever it was that she was talking to, and telling them, that they wanted to get high more than to see her, and apparently treating her wrong. I dont know the situation, except for what she was yelling all the way down the street. but I figured that it was her boyfriend....or something... Both Steve and I both looked at each other and he said 'sometimes you wonder why and how people get with the people that they get with...'....
So true. For this girl... I just wonder what kind of role models did she grow up with to want to be with a guy who apparently is doing drugs and whatnot...
It is important to show your children of what kind of spouse to be on the look out for (when they are the appropriate age...) that way they (hopefully) will not get mixed up with someone that is bad for them.
Talking from my life now:
I'm going to brag on my dad for a minute. I know that there are alot of good dads out there.. but mine was really great to me.
When I was little... Beginning at an early age (Newborn)... He would dress me up all cute and would take me to whataburger... while he met a friend for lunch. (He was at the time not working, and mom was, so he was a 'stay at home dad'- for just a little bit after I was born, until he found a job.) He would show me off... I'd get a little older and he'd still take me to whataburger and we'd eat... for 'date nights'--- I remember him also taking me to Dairy Queen, and would go with him to get gas in his truck, and he would ALWAYS get me a surprise... same thing everytime, in a little brown bag - a handful of peanut butter bars..... He has always been there for me... While he was always nice-- he knew when to discipline too. (while I hated it then... I know it was good for me.... made me to be who I am today) Dad still takes me out on 'dates' -- well when mom isnt around... gives us an opportunity to go - we always know where we are going... and what we are ordering ... To whataburger - for burgers and chocolate milkshakes (except when their milkshake machine is broken, like it was a few weeks ago) haha. anyways-
It is important to set an example for your children. They look up to you, more than what they may realize. It is important for them to watch you respect others, particularly your spouse. It is important to impliment Biblical principals in your home, even at an early age. It is important for them to see you to follow the same rules.
Keep in mind that it is up to YOU to teach them morals, and values in life...
Parents are supposed to not only just keep their children alive, but to raise them up right. If you do not raise them to have patience, manners, social skills, learning skills (reading, writing, colors, letters, shapes...) then who will? then when you do not model a good christian environment, of Love for you and your spouse... fathers modeling how a man is supposed to treat a lady... and mothers modeling how a woman is to treat a man... (if you don't then what kind of romantic relationships will your son/daughter have or treat others?)
If you teach them and show them the ways of the world, then when they grow older, will they grab the Bible, or will they grab something bad?
I have noticed that some parents throw some kind of electronic device at their children, so that they will entertain themselves, rather than be teaching their children things, and have the television teach them stuff.... and alot of thimees they will put television on to 'cartoons'- rather than something educational and good quality that they can learn from.
I know that it is important for children to entertain themselves at times... but instead of throwing on the television- what about coloring? or an age appropriate puzzle, or other toys... I dont know...
When you throw an electronic device at them, they most likely arent learning anything and they will not know how to communicate with people.
There is a family that I know, their children do not know how to communicate with people... they constantly have some kind of electonic something in their hands and have their head down looking that that, rather than talking... after you ask them some kind of question.--- kids need to learn how to properly communicate.
There was a girl walking down my street the other night. (she looked to be in high school...) YELLING into her cell phone. Steve and I were sitting out there, when all of a sudden we started hearing her-- Cussing at whoever it was that she was talking to, and telling them, that they wanted to get high more than to see her, and apparently treating her wrong. I dont know the situation, except for what she was yelling all the way down the street. but I figured that it was her boyfriend....or something... Both Steve and I both looked at each other and he said 'sometimes you wonder why and how people get with the people that they get with...'....
So true. For this girl... I just wonder what kind of role models did she grow up with to want to be with a guy who apparently is doing drugs and whatnot...
It is important to show your children of what kind of spouse to be on the look out for (when they are the appropriate age...) that way they (hopefully) will not get mixed up with someone that is bad for them.
Talking from my life now:
I'm going to brag on my dad for a minute. I know that there are alot of good dads out there.. but mine was really great to me.
When I was little... Beginning at an early age (Newborn)... He would dress me up all cute and would take me to whataburger... while he met a friend for lunch. (He was at the time not working, and mom was, so he was a 'stay at home dad'- for just a little bit after I was born, until he found a job.) He would show me off... I'd get a little older and he'd still take me to whataburger and we'd eat... for 'date nights'--- I remember him also taking me to Dairy Queen, and would go with him to get gas in his truck, and he would ALWAYS get me a surprise... same thing everytime, in a little brown bag - a handful of peanut butter bars..... He has always been there for me... While he was always nice-- he knew when to discipline too. (while I hated it then... I know it was good for me.... made me to be who I am today) Dad still takes me out on 'dates' -- well when mom isnt around... gives us an opportunity to go - we always know where we are going... and what we are ordering ... To whataburger - for burgers and chocolate milkshakes (except when their milkshake machine is broken, like it was a few weeks ago) haha. anyways-
It is important to set an example for your children. They look up to you, more than what they may realize. It is important for them to watch you respect others, particularly your spouse. It is important to impliment Biblical principals in your home, even at an early age. It is important for them to see you to follow the same rules.
Keep in mind that it is up to YOU to teach them morals, and values in life...
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
101 things to do in 1001 days.
A couple of years ago, I saw on a blog- where they did this list-- 101 things to do in 1001 days.
thought it was a neat idea...
and really is, nice to see some of the things that you have accomplished.
So I decided to go ahead and start one... so...
November 17th 2009 I sat down and wrote out 101 things that I would like to do within the next 1001 days (almost 3 years)-- amazing how much can change ... I have had to make a couple of revisions to the list, (because I knew that I would NOT be able to accomplish some of the things... like i said, 'life changes...-you can see that link here, of that first post.
So this is all suppsosed to be 'done' in 17 days. on August 16th.
Some of it I think can be attainable.
some of it, not so much. and I know the photography stuff I will not be doing.I'll be busy trying to complete them, we'll see how much i get done :)
there are some things that I will definitely continue on to the next 101 list.
1. learn how to make a pie (Cherry pie May 5th, 2012)
2. Learn how to make a cheesecake Did it.. not how i thought it would be, but everyone still liked it.
3.Try one new recipe a month (9/30)
House &; Home
4. Keep at least one plant alive (ivy?) 1/2 way- got an Ivy for b-day, now gotta keep it alive. – failed with the ivy – but I have other plants growing – marigolds, basil and others…
5. Keep my car clean for 3 weeks - inside and out
6. clean out my desk (june 2011)
7. clean out my closet ---did --- and moved-- now the key is to keeping it clean :)
8. Wash dishes every night for 2 weeks (0/2)
9. Make curtains for my room... possibly living room
10. Clean out craft bin (done, need to work on scrapbooks, though)
11. Figure out a "life plan" (Its 'my plan' but I know God has the Ultimate plan :) )
For the Best of Me
12. Read the Bible at its entirety (In progress, started reading from the beginning, I know I wont finish by the time that this is supposed to be done, but It will be done by jan 1 of 2013)
13. get up and stretch each morning for 2 weeks
14.excersize 4 times a week for a month
15. follow the food pyramid to a "T" for 3 days (0/3)
16.dont eat any sweets 3 days out of the project (3/3) spring 2011 gave up sweets for Lent.
17. get a manicure & Pedicure
18. get new eyeglasses-- love them!!
19. Do a teeth whitening program
20.Learn CPR
21 Drink 8 Glasses of water for 3 days (0/3)
22 Make a prayer journal made one, may make another one, .... one that would be easier to write in...
23 Tithe Every week that i go to church -
24 Blog once a week—getting there...
25 find a job Found one??? -
26 start bachelor degree @ university (July. 2012) (what a wonderful thing to have crossed off!!)
27 Vaccuum once a week for a month (4/4)
28 Make my own bread
GO TO:
29 Go to a hot air balloon festival- Completed on 9/19/2010 (plano Balloon Festival)
30 Go to the Deaf assisted living home 4 times a year (2/8)
31 go to a concert (Trans siberian orchestra)
32 Go to at least one professional game (rangers game April 23)
33 go to the zoo(went with Nikki April 2011)
34 go to the botanical gardens (went July 2011)
35 go to a college football game (Went with Steve to TCU game)
36 Go to a museum- (went to the Amon Carter musueum July 2011 )
Photography
:37 take a picture every day for a month
38enter into 6 photo contests (0/6)
39 Learn how to use photoshop properly...... for the majority
40 Enter items in State fair contests 0/2
41 Sell a photo (Sold one on zazzle- July 2012!)
42 get a website for my photos
43 upload most photos online- (alot of photos already online between facebook and google +
44 make a real photo portfolio
45 Get out old film camera, take pics, and then get them developed.
46 Print various pics for mom(put photos on a cd for mom)
47 Digiti-fy some of my photos of when i was a kid (scan)
48 Learn how to photograph portraits
49 Learn a photography skill once a month (0/30)
TO Do/ Buy
50 get laptop fixed (bought a new laptop)
51 Go camping (Steve and I went camping April 13th, 2012)
53 Get a phone
54 Get a sewing machine (mom has one that I will get)
55 Get a external hard drive (2010)
56 buy a shredder (VOID)
57 Back up data from computer (something that needs to constantly needing to be done)
58 Get a library card
59 get something from the library each month after i get a library card
60 frame 5 photos
61 Get a small digital camera.(got a new camera that really has been serving me well- smaller, but does really great pics)
62Get coins into paper money, or put it in savings- Coins were stolen – working on new jar of coins.
63 get a family portrait, with parents and brother
64 go to a festival (art Festival Ft worth April 17 2011)
For FUn
:65. Learn to play a new instrument (going to (re)learn the piano.)
66 Watch the stars
67 go fishing
68. Start a sketch book.... and then start sketching
69.Learn how to paint
70. Go putt putt (July 2012-- So much fun!)
71. go play a real golf game.
72 go to a drive in theater
73 Go on a picnic (Labor day 2011 with steve)
.74 plan a surprise (surprise party for Emily May 2010_
75. host a game night
76. learn how to make a peice of clothing for myself
77. Fly somewhere...(Went to California for Thanksgiving with Steve)
78 Fly a kite
79. Learn 5 ASL signs a week... (0/130)
80. finish college scrapbook
81. take vitamins every day fora month
82. Get a jewelery box
83 Get some high heels, and learn how to wear them....
.84. Don’t complain for 1 week
.85. Learn how to use Chop sticks
86. Spend an afternoon in a local coffeeshop – loved to do this – will be doing again.
87. perform a song with my brother (him singing, me doing sign language)Accomplished on May 2 – we did “Give me your Eyes” – By Brandon Heath – He sang, played his mandolin – and I Signed. It was great
88. Make my bed for 3 weeks (3/3)
Financial
89 save $100 a month for the duration of the project (20/30)
For The best of everyone
90. Buy and send out/give 10 'just because' gifts (5/10)
91. Give food/clothing to the needy 4 times a year (2/10)
92. Start recycling more (Started to really recycle since living at home)
93.Learn how to drive a stick shift
94Write 3 letters of complaint of food / service (1/3)
95Write 3 letters of praise of food/service (2/3)
96 start working on posture
97 Make sure im on the right track for schooling.
98 volunteer twice (2/2) (Fed the homeless with youth group & Special Olympics)
99 buy something online... preferably via etsy.(Bought Coasters online frm Evan..)
100pray for someone everyday.- Working On it
101 Have someone inspired enough to make a 101 for themselves
thought it was a neat idea...
and really is, nice to see some of the things that you have accomplished.
So I decided to go ahead and start one... so...
November 17th 2009 I sat down and wrote out 101 things that I would like to do within the next 1001 days (almost 3 years)-- amazing how much can change ... I have had to make a couple of revisions to the list, (because I knew that I would NOT be able to accomplish some of the things... like i said, 'life changes...-you can see that link here, of that first post.
So this is all suppsosed to be 'done' in 17 days. on August 16th.
Some of it I think can be attainable.
some of it, not so much. and I know the photography stuff I will not be doing.I'll be busy trying to complete them, we'll see how much i get done :)
there are some things that I will definitely continue on to the next 101 list.
2
3.Try one new recipe a month (9/30)
House &; Home
7
9. Make curtains for my room... possibly living room
For the Best of Me
12. Read the Bible at its entirety (In progress, started reading from the beginning, I know I wont finish by the time that this is supposed to be done, but It will be done by jan 1 of 2013)
13. get up and stretch each morning for 2 weeks
14.excersize 4 times a week for a month
15. follow the food pyramid to a "T" for 3 days (0/3)
17. get a manicure & Pedicure
19. Do a teeth whitening program
20.Learn CPR
21 Drink 8 Glasses of water for 3 days (0/3)
23 Tithe Every week that i go to church -
24 Blog once a week—getting there...
28 Make my own bread
GO TO:
30 Go to the Deaf assisted living home 4 times a year (2/8)
Photography
:37 take a picture every day for a month
38enter into 6 photo contests (0/6)
39 Learn how to use photoshop properly...... for the majority
40 Enter items in State fair contests 0/2
42 get a website for my photos
44 make a real photo portfolio
45 Get out old film camera, take pics, and then get them developed.
47 Digiti-fy some of my photos of when i was a kid (scan)
48 Learn how to photograph portraits
49 Learn a photography skill once a month (0/30)
TO Do/ Buy
58
59 get something from the library each month after i get a library card
62Get coins into paper money, or put it in savings- Coins were stolen – working on new jar of coins.
For FUn
:65. Learn to play a new instrument (going to (re)learn the piano.)
66 Watch the stars
67 go fishing
68. Start a sketch book.... and then start sketching
69.Learn how to paint
71. go play a real golf game.
72 go to a drive in theater
75. host a game night
76. learn how to make a peice of clothing for myself
78 Fly a kite
79. Learn 5 ASL signs a week... (0/130)
80. finish college scrapbook
81. take vitamins every day fora month
82. Get a jewelery box
83 Get some high heels, and learn how to wear them....
.84. Don’t complain for 1 week
.85. Learn how to use Chop sticks
88. Make my bed for 3 weeks (3/3)
Financial
89 save $100 a month for the duration of the project (20/30)
For The best of everyone
90. Buy and send out/give 10 'just because' gifts (5/10)
91. Give food/clothing to the needy 4 times a year (2/10)
93.Learn how to drive a stick shift
94Write 3 letters of complaint of food / service (1/3)
95Write 3 letters of praise of food/service (2/3)
Monday, July 23, 2012
Time for School! TIME FOR SCHOOL!!!
have to do a little *happy dance* today---
Today is a new beginning for me.
Today is the first day of school for me - at the Kings University. I have never been happier-- I just KNOW that this is what God has planned for my life. Its been incredible. just KNOWING that this is all in HIS Plan. and all in HIS timing.
(of course it would have been nice to have been able to realize that this was the path I was to go down... oh 7 years ago... but I know I had to do alot of growing up, and needed to experience things that way I can help others.)
As you may know, I have had a calling for young adults for the past year.
We have a problem with young adults... they are leaving the church. many of them go to church until they graduate high school- then they leave.
anyways- just over a year ago, it was placed on my heart that I was to go into ministry- young adult ministry. I dont know what I''ll do - I just know that is the age of people I want to work with - I want to get them to go back to church. So that whene they have kids (if they don't already) they can get their kids to go to church... if children don't see their parents praying, going to church...etc... they will have that same mindset... (as a general rule.)we are to set the example.
Anyways- I cannot wait to see what God has in store for me during this time, I know that this is the beginning to something really great :)
I have NEVER been this excited about school before.
I remind myself of Nemo excited about his first day of school:
Today is a new beginning for me.
Today is the first day of school for me - at the Kings University. I have never been happier-- I just KNOW that this is what God has planned for my life. Its been incredible. just KNOWING that this is all in HIS Plan. and all in HIS timing.
(of course it would have been nice to have been able to realize that this was the path I was to go down... oh 7 years ago... but I know I had to do alot of growing up, and needed to experience things that way I can help others.)
As you may know, I have had a calling for young adults for the past year.
We have a problem with young adults... they are leaving the church. many of them go to church until they graduate high school- then they leave.
anyways- just over a year ago, it was placed on my heart that I was to go into ministry- young adult ministry. I dont know what I''ll do - I just know that is the age of people I want to work with - I want to get them to go back to church. So that whene they have kids (if they don't already) they can get their kids to go to church... if children don't see their parents praying, going to church...etc... they will have that same mindset... (as a general rule.)we are to set the example.
Anyways- I cannot wait to see what God has in store for me during this time, I know that this is the beginning to something really great :)
I have NEVER been this excited about school before.
I remind myself of Nemo excited about his first day of school:
So I will be beginning school today, and will go for 5 weeks. very short- but love it- I'll have that done in no time, and then will have about a month break, before I start the next quarter.
So this Quarter I am only taking one class: Student Learning Development... basically just an orientation class to get me ready for online classes. this is one class I am not too worried about :)
Looking over the syllabus, and items that will be due over the next 5 weeks, reflection papers, quizes, final exam... lots to cover the next 5 weeks. I will be logging in 5 times a week, with 3 days a week something to turn in. :) It will be a lot to keep up with.
-work
-school
-wedding
-family/friends...
but I know I can do it. :) I am so incredibly excited I can't hardly stand it. In a matter of just a few years I will have a bachelor degree :) WAHOO!!!
anyways that is my good news for the day. I am very excited and cannot wait to share things that I will learn during this time.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
What are you wearing?
Welcome to Summertime-- the temp is high, the shorts are shorter, the necklines are lower, more skin, less fabric. every summer we see this... but is it just me? -- Just seems like the shorts keep getting shorter each summer- for at least the past summers...
The way we dress describes us before we even speak. We set our own image the second someone lays eyes on us.
We forget we impact those around us with the way we dress, what we say, the way we act, what we do and say on Facebook, twitter etc.....
More girls are being pulled in the the secular scene, as images are all around us telling us to show off more leg, more cleavage, and what to wear to show off certain parts of your body. I know that this has been going on for YEARS... but I would love to see a change.
I know I see people whether in real life or on facebook, showing off certain aspects of their body- and honestly, gives me the image of 'they are putting themselves out there'
They are sending a message.
Girls are dressing these days, not even thinking about what they are wearing, they are wearing things that make them look 'sexy'--- not thinking that they are tempting others
.
we have a responsibility towards our brothers: not to stumble them in their faith by the way we act, speak or dress.
I read something somewhere- if I could remember where I read/heard it- I'd give that person credit- but it basically said that when girls dress in that manner - you are leading them to temptation - you are putting their faith in jeopardy. All in turn you are also putting your faith and tempting yourself. wanting that attention. - Wanting people to notice you, and your skin- wanting boys to flock to you, by the way of how much skin you are showing...
As I've been writing this I have begun to think... the way we dress, and the way we act, what we say- that is what begins an attraction.
When you dress to flaunt your body, and to show off skin and to look sexy- then thats the kind of guy you will attract, you will attract someone who wants that skin, wants sex.... 
when we dress and reflect the image of Christ, then we will attract someone who is along the same lines. (Does that make sense?)
It is up to you of who you want to attract... whether you are looking for someone just for sexual attention or if you are looking for someone who is a good guy, and that looks to Christ.
As far as our dress and fashion, I am not saying we have to start dressing like nuns, we dont have to throw all fashion out the window, just be cautious in what you wear, and how you wear it.
You may have to make some changes to your wardrobe. you may have to find some shirts that cover certain areas- You may have to wear some shorts that are a little longer, you may have to wear shirts that arent so tight, you may need to wear longer skirts/dresses....
"I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him..." (Romans 12:1 NLT)
We are to give our bodies to God. and to be a living and holy sacrifice... the kind that He will find acceptable.
What will God find acceptable?
If you dress in a manner is tempting others, and increasing their chances of stumbling in their faith, I doubt that God finds that acceptable.
Think about if you are tempting your brothers in Christ..... think about the way you dress... think about the way you act around them, think about the way you talk to them...
Please be mindful when you get dressed, if it is pleasing to God, if you are tempting others, and if you are dressing in a manner that is pleasing to God.
Do you talk in a flirtatious manner, trying to get their attention?
Are you leading guys on by the way you talk/flirt with them?
Are you tempting them to persue you in any other manner that is not pleasing to God?
Are you leading guys on by the way you talk/flirt with them?
Are you tempting them to persue you in any other manner that is not pleasing to God?
The choice is YOURS, and YOURS alone... of how you dress, and whether or not you are going to dress to offer yourself as a living sacrifice to our Heavenly Father.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
50 Shades... and Magic Mike--- what is this world coming to?
I've had something on my mind for awhile now... and I read a blog this morning, one that I completely agree with - so it sparked me to really write about this. I really would like to see a change.
This year a book trilogy was released, women flocked to the book stores to buy it- then just a few weeks ago a movie was released, again women flocked to it.
I am not advertising for either of these at all. I am actually telling you to keep away from it. I want that to be loud and clear.
I have not read or seen either of these, I have heard about them, and I have read the descriptions(unfortunately) which has caused this post, because it has really struck something with me.
I am talking about the book series "50 Shades..." and then the move "Magic Mike" The book trilogy is basically porn for women to read, and the movie is about a male stripper. [ yes, I am saying these things on a Christian blog.]
Both descriptions have disgusted me--- and makes me really wonder what is happening to our society- to make it "OK" for women to begin reading, ranting and raving about a porn trilogy series... publicly on twitter, facebook, and getting their friends to begin reading it...
Christian women are also amongst the flocks running to get the next book of the trilogy, and that were/are lining up to go see the movie... this really bothered me.
I know I have seen numerous status updates from girls on facebook about them seeing it, everyone should should see it and everything....
[*SERIOUSLY?!?!?!*]
I have Christian friends that have been reading/watching this smut. I've seen too many people suggesting it as a good read or a movie to watch... they love this stuff, they cant wait to buy the next book. they literally are obsessed with this. I question these women now. these are young women that I thought truly had a heart for God. and truly had 'their head on straight'... then they post that they saw that movie, read the books, I now am questioning them... I question where exactly they stand in their faith. I question if they know God. I question why they got sucked into that..... Just makes me wonder about them.
Seriously... I mean we are Christian women. yes we live in todays world. that does not mean that we have to read every single book out there, especially ones that are trying to break our faith!....We are to deny those things that are trying to separate us FROM God....
We need to reject these things.. we need to reject things that are not pleasing to our Heavenly Father.
We need to use our voices, instead of telling others about this temptation, use it to support what is True.
We are daughters of our Heavenly Father. we are to remain Set apart from the wicked . And dont tempt others with your temptation that you have fallen into....
Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20
This is sexual immorality. -- When you are sinning in this way - watching/ reading this smut, then not only are you tempting/hurting others, you are also hurting yourself. maybe not physically, but, spiritually.
Spiritually the devil is distancing you from God.
FLEE from it... he didnt say - eh, you can read it, watch it... you'll be alright... no, He said to FLEE from it...RUN... Toss it, whatever, get away from it. Get away from sexual immorality.... Yes, pornography is sexual immorality.
The enemy is out there lurking-- he wants to use things that will get you to break down your faith. he doesnt want you to have a good relationship with the Heavenly Father.
God tells us to be careful out there...
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8
If it takes a book, a movie, music... he is out there lurking and looking for someone to devour. and he will use whatever he can.
God says to be on alert..... to watch out... to watch out for everything that you do/say/read/listen to, whatever.
One of my favorite passages is this...
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:1-9
-- Just because everone else is reading it, does NOT mean that you have to read it too... We are to be holy and pleasing to God- this is how we worship Him. We are not to just 'go along with the flow.' we are different that 'the world' we are christians. We follow Christ's example...
Is reading that smut Christian example?
What about that song that you sing all that time? is that Christ's example?
When you talk in profanity- are you following Christ's example?
What about the TV shows you watch? Is that what Christ has set before us?
Or that movie- do you think God really put that here to show us His example?
We are to follow Christ. and we are to be Set apart from others.
For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 1 John 2:16
Learn to say "No"-- Learn to tell others "I'd rather read something good for my spirit" Just because someone asks you if you want something, or tells you to read something, or asks you to go watch a movie, doesnt mean you have to say 'yes.'- learn to say no... when they ask you why- that is when you tell them that is not Christ's example...
(these are my thoughts on these things.)
“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!” Matthew 6:22-23
You see that?--- what you put in, is what you put out...
what are you putting in front of your eyes??? think about it. Is it pleasing to God?
Now, I know I am focusing on these two things-- but honestly it's with everything that we do - we have to watch out for what we have turned on the radio... many songs out there these days-- are about sex, drunkenness, cursing,drugs.... just think about what you are putting in.
I can really say--- Awaken your Spirit!!!... don't succomb to the ways of the world. really stand up for what you believe in, THINK about what you are putting in your head!-- and think about what God has instructed us.... we are to avoid those things.
If your faith is all about pleasing other and being accepted by others- then your faith is in trouble. God loves you no matter what, but if you believe that God your Heavenly father loves you and wants the best for you, out of respect and out of love for Him, then do your best to live a life that honors Him.
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