tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57958148689772079262024-02-20T18:07:41.485-08:00Confessions of my Wandering Heartlaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-68453781008619335272013-09-08T14:05:00.000-07:002013-09-08T14:44:20.237-07:009.1 // Sometimes I'm organized<br />
// Confession: Sometimes I'm organized.<br />
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Not always, but as I have gotten older there are a few disciplines that not only benefit me but actually make my life easier. Meal prep is one of them. I am a pretty health conscious girl. I like to eat well and work out 4 morning's a week before work. This means I have to have breakfast (the MOST important meal of the day--I wouldn't attempt to make it through a work day without it), lunch, snacks, and water all set to go so I can jet out the door by 6:30 AM.<br />
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This means Sunday's are my meal prep days. Since I'm already in the kitchen making a mess, I normally just go right ahead and make some dinner's for the week as well. I don't pretend to be a gourmet cook--I like simple, flavorful, and easy. I, like many ladies, am a <a href="http://pinterest.com/lala116/boards/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> lover for this very reason. Also like many, I have pinned recipes unsure that they're actually good. So here is my, "I actually tried them, and they're yummy" recipe suggestions.<br />
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Mexican Salad</h3>
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This isn't from a Pinterest recipe, I sorta just made this up. Anyone that knows me knows I'm all about mason jar salads. They're my go-to work meal. This one is perfect with a side of tortilla chips. Layer (starting from the bottom) Salsa, chopped red onion, green pepper, red pepper, corn, black beans, and avocado. Don't forget a little salt, pepper, lime juice and cilantro; season to taste. Refrigerate and when you're ready to eat, simply give it a little shake.<br />
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Crunchy Apple Chips</h3>
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I was convinced by the guy at the farmer's market to buy this basket of apples. Which of course I got home and had no idea what to do with them, so I decided to try <a href="http://theitaliandishblog.com/imported-20090913150324/2012/1/2/homemade-apple-chips.html" target="_blank">this recipe</a> for Apple Chips. These are so good and easy. Simply, set oven to 225 degrees F, mix some brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Slice the apples thin (I highly recommend using a mandolin), and use spoon to apply sugar mix (as little or as much as you want-- they don't need a lot, these flavors go a long way). Cover a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Place apple slices on, and let them cook for 1 hour, then flip and cook for another hour. Let cool and store in an air tight container.<br />
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Baked Apple-Cranberry Oatmeal</h3>
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To use up more apples, I wanted to make something I could eat for breakfast so I adapted <a href="http://trebleinthekitchen.com/2012/04/13/bosu-discovery/" target="_blank">this recipe</a> for healthy baked oatmeal.<br />
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2 1/4 cups of oats<br />
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1/4 c dried cranberries (optional)</div>
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. In a medium bowl, mix all dry ingredients first, then add remaining. Evenly distribute batter into a greased cucpcake pan. Bake for 20-25 min. Super simple and really good. I nook them for 15 seconds in the microwave at work; perfect coffee sidekick.</div>
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I may not have it all together but this is a small discipline that has made my life so much easier.//</div>
laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-76025657665818539852013-08-11T10:23:00.002-07:002013-08-11T10:24:23.847-07:008.2 // Saved from writer's block<div>
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// Confession: This post saved me from writer's block</div>
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A lovely little blogger named <a href="http://how-beautiful-are-the-feet.blogspot.com/">Lauren</a> (ironic I know), commented on my previous post and nominated me for the Liebster award (thank you!). Thus I was invited to answer these questions. The last month or two have been a bit blank as to what I should write about. I think mostly because my mind is filled with other worried busy nonsense so I can't get a clear connection with my heart and my brain. I've been a bit grumpy lately, I usually avoid writing when I feel like that... I avoid negative speak as much as possible. </div>
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So, here's hoping this gets me out of my funk:</div>
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1. Why do you get out of bed in the morning?</h4>
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What an intense question! I like it. I'd like to avoid cliche answers, but I can't because it's definitely Jesus. I tried for quite a few years to wake up for other people, myself, a job, but all of it left me feeling empty. It wasn't until I started to live less for myself and more for Jesus that my life felt as though it had value. The knowledge God in you changes the way you live. If it doesn't I would challenge that you have a relationship with Him. Once you realize God can use you to make an impact in the lives of those you come into contact with, service become the drive of your heart. I will always maintain the position that people matter immensely to God and therefore should matter immensely to me. </div>
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2. If you were moving across the world to a place that you knew nothing about and you could only take 3 things, what would they be? </h4>
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My Bible, no journey would be worth taking without God's truth and promises.</div>
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My love, Chase, because life is just better with him by my side.</div>
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My dog, Grady, because everyone loves him and he is the best conversation starter ever.</div>
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3. What is a song from your past that has defined a certain period of your life?</h4>
Desert song was the reason I started writing about my journey with God, in fact, it was called <a href="http://www.seasontosing.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">"Season to Sing"</a>. I am challenged, pressed, and fulfilled by the struggle to know God more fully -- this song pushed me to keep pursuing & praising Jesus no matter the circumstances.<br />
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4. If you knew you could do something and definitely not fail, what would you do?</h4>
Well the fear isn't so much failure but it's more an issue of income-- I would love to just explore the globe, make friends, take photos & write about it!<br />
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5. If you were writing a letter to yourself at 16, what would you tell yourself?</h4>
This question could be its own post. Honestly, I'm not sure that I would've listened at that stage in my life. Still, I would tell myself that I am valuable and loved. That I shouldn't compromise my values or run away from pain. I would tell myself to be more honest with those I love. To talk more about what I am feeling. To spend more time with my mom and dad. To pursue closer relationships with my brothers. To serve and love my friends with genuine affection. To have a relationship with God over a relationship with a boy. But mostly I would remind myself that no matter where my decisions take me in this life, God will always be in pursuit of my heart--that He will leave the 99 to find me.<br />
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Sometimes we forget about our hearts until something happens that makes us feel it beat. //</div>
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laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-79480274815433721792013-08-01T14:00:00.000-07:002013-08-01T14:47:57.040-07:008.1 // I am not a good Christian<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">//Confession: I am not a good Christian </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I grew up in Church. I knew the Bible up and down, memorized verses for fun, and was at church all of the time. That's where I learned what I thought it meant to a Christian: you read your Bible, obey your parents, keep the 10 commandments, pray, use fruit of the spirit, and go to Church. I will not deny that all of those things are true and necessary. However, I wouldn't say that doing them means that you have a relationship with Jesus.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For me, that step came much later in life. When I began to REALLY pursue God, I saw Christianity differently. Early in journey, I came to understand that He doesn't require these tasks of me. Yet, there are times in my walk with God where that idea holds me to a standard of righteousness that I cannot meet. It's one of those things the enemy uses to cause me to believe myself unworthy and unusable. That's where he's got it wrong. My lack of humanly discipline does not determine God's love for me nor is it an indicator of my ability to show Jesus in my day to day life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">What I'm getting at is something I've been struggling with recently. When I don't feel like I'm making the time that I need to spend time with God I assume my life isn't "where it ought to be" and as a result nobody around me sees Him in me. The reality is He doesn't come and go. I took on His spirit when I chose to follow. His presence is near and people can see Him, whether I am reading the Bible everyday or not. I think I make God little when I try to believe that He needs <i>me</i> in order to touch the lives of those around me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pastor Jeff said something crucial on Sunday that reiterated this point for me-- when people are brought into the presence of God they are blessed and changed. "We invite people readily to what we are captivated by."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">What that tells me is that if I'm living with a heart that loves Jesus--captivated and in pursuit of knowing Him-- people will feel that. They won't care whether or not I've been to church every Sunday, or if I have at least 5 scriptures memorized, but will be more curious to know what I know. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When I committed my life to knowing Jesus 6 years ago, I realized that spiritual tasks weren't requirements; instead they became desires. I figured out that salvation isn't a one time thing, it's something that I will continue to work out with God for the rest of my life. I learned that being a Christian isn't about how good I can be but how much I recognize and receive God's goodness. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am not good. But in me there is greatness, His name is Jesus. //</span></div>
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<br />laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-21842705589022646712013-07-09T14:01:00.000-07:002013-07-09T14:43:18.108-07:007.1 // I am afraid.<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0gIcqTIoNTbyj0tn26ByE7y27DmqdnNavuVrYYr47RhlCF2NSlZ35sJcMhTVrlwyCtQgUZ5AxcvOlDirHO9GeWIfdsxYjL-auJ32_0ijw3-bn1dDC1u6k0ZeFtEWnzsMxlQgRvT524_I/s640/blogger-image--828046160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0gIcqTIoNTbyj0tn26ByE7y27DmqdnNavuVrYYr47RhlCF2NSlZ35sJcMhTVrlwyCtQgUZ5AxcvOlDirHO9GeWIfdsxYjL-auJ32_0ijw3-bn1dDC1u6k0ZeFtEWnzsMxlQgRvT524_I/s640/blogger-image--828046160.jpg"></a></div><br></div>//Confession: I am afraid.<br>
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Bugs, scary movies, creepy sounds, loud noises, and car accidents: they get me every time. They leave my heart pounding, hands shaking, and mind racing. <div><br></div><div>What is it about fear that gets the best of me? Why is it that like a snake, it seems to slowly squeeze my esophagus, leaving me feeling completely powerless?<br>
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Fear sort of reminds me of a maze, with each dead end anxiety builds until I'm in a full blown panic, unable to concentrate, not only on where I should be going but where I just was. It blurs the vision, fogs the mind, and creates this false sense of hopelessness. The reality however is that there is in fact an exit. The maze isn't<br>
just sending me in circles; I am sending me in circles.<br>
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Fear is a vital response to danger, if we didn't feel it, we couldn't protect ourselves from legitimate threats. When looking up psychological reasoning for fear, I read, "a perceived threat causes one to quickly pull far away from it and usually hide." That's the problem with perception vs. reality, the threat of 'what if's' and 'might be's' become reality.</div><div><br></div><div>It is the deception that I see and understand all things. Fear causes me to pull away from people for fear they "might" fail, hurt, or deceive me. It pushes me to hide from opportunities, dreams, and possibility because there is risk of inadequacy. It reveals so much about my heart when I find myself running from that which isn't actually there. <br>
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Talk about a false prophets, fear predicts things that may not—and most likely will not—come to pass. If I stand in front of these false realities believing my fears to be predictors of my future, I essentially am saying, "God is not for me. He is not going to help me. God doesn't know what I need. He won't provide."<br>
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In thinking about being afraid, I couldn't help but think of the command in the Bible, "Fear Not" which occurs close to 150 times. In these statements God is not just commanding the release of fear but often follows with comfort and hope saying things like "I am with you", "I am the one who helps you", "I am with you to deliver you", "I will fight for you". <br>
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What <a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/blog/posts/13-reasons-christians-don-t-have-to-be-afraid">reason</a> do I have to hide or pull back with promises like that? Unlike a spider on the wall in front of me, facing my fears only means turning from the frustrating walls of wondering and seeking the path God has for me. This maze of life is tough sometimes but I cannot let fear leave me feeling lost.<br>
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<div style="text-align: right;">Unlike a mouse in a maze I know the only way out is to seek what the direction of the only One who knows the way. </div>
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</div>laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-32886096172476167232013-06-24T09:02:00.000-07:002013-06-24T09:30:54.616-07:006.3 // Good ole days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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//Confession: I miss the good ole days</center>
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You'd think at 27 it wouldn't be possible to have homesickness. I do. There's something about this month that has made me miss my family more than ever. Being a Virginia transplant hasn't been very difficult until these last few weeks. Work is in a summer lull, life hasn't been all that easy, and my heart has just felt off... the culmination of that and a few other family things has made me wish I could wake up in my house. I want to walk down the stairs to the smell of coffee and sit across from daddy on the couch while he reads. I would like to relax in the sunshine with my mom, walk around target, and get pizza gallery together. I would love to watch wheel of fortune and jeopardy next to grandma and do her nails for her. I wish I could walk on the beach and get breakfast with Diana. I miss laughing and dance parties with my nieces and nephews. I miss home. </center>
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In one of the final Office episodes, Andy says "I wish there was a way to know you're in the good ole days before you leave them". There has been so many times in my life where I have been in those and just forgot to live in them--to really live in them, to be joyful and thankful for them. Instead, I have spent time trying to get to the next place. Looking to just keep going.</center>
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In spite of my current homesickness, I haven't let that keep me from living. I've come to realize that it's okay to remember the good ole days, to wish for simplicity in the midst of chaos, to see change as challenging, but I refuse to spend my time wanting out of these days. Or waiting for the next best thing... because the next best thing is today. It's in these moments...just enjoy these moments.</center>
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<span style="color: #741b47;">On that note here's life lately:</span></center>
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I have spent many weekends at the Roanoke River. This spot is about 10 minutes from where I live. It may not offer sandy shores, or waves but it's a different kind of peaceful.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD3dBZepz_CfY7kB4eaMjG4d5a4qxAQhRNYfKTlzkvd2aJlSu2zyUnxu17Yl89Ffs4hMdOEq5-L9nvgI79GT9GnHVBgcyRlQyrBLF4zWTkRC8G04__sARQkZOPbGQRk8rNxKubRTc0hak/s1600/photo+2+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD3dBZepz_CfY7kB4eaMjG4d5a4qxAQhRNYfKTlzkvd2aJlSu2zyUnxu17Yl89Ffs4hMdOEq5-L9nvgI79GT9GnHVBgcyRlQyrBLF4zWTkRC8G04__sARQkZOPbGQRk8rNxKubRTc0hak/s400/photo+2+(2).JPG" width="398" /></a></div>
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Grady likes the river too.</div>
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<a href="http://confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/04/46-i-love-spring-things-2.html">My herb garden</a> has gone crazy. This is just before a second trimming. I have made pizza, pasta, and salads with the my homegrown mint, oregano, and basil. I have also enjoyed a fresh mojito with my mint.</center>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHiCdjWW2cnKFIpNmxy_x5Fa1R6Q3pLkriNwDpzNek36bN9Vb5nFnzTZSC0NnKv56Rd9TTgbNwagUWRlCBUBwVXR8bXq2AqnWgquijWIK5zvONGnzQWbZmtjqn2FGnWqr0smJoIqYHPaE/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHiCdjWW2cnKFIpNmxy_x5Fa1R6Q3pLkriNwDpzNek36bN9Vb5nFnzTZSC0NnKv56Rd9TTgbNwagUWRlCBUBwVXR8bXq2AqnWgquijWIK5zvONGnzQWbZmtjqn2FGnWqr0smJoIqYHPaE/s400/photo+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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There is something about froyo on a hard day that sort of just makes things better. A beautiful sunset is nice too.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVbuo6Zf3b47J1a5Dm1SRKGVokb0JRqjYrAfV059iKW-UTfe2_zTsPJnYY9yDfE0zcp9JpFAzTcpi1WxMksQrIYJU7f1D_lvSq2mgufOok_Y9UQBQ6QwMTRNQjwGBjnjQv1ObI_CspxLY/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVbuo6Zf3b47J1a5Dm1SRKGVokb0JRqjYrAfV059iKW-UTfe2_zTsPJnYY9yDfE0zcp9JpFAzTcpi1WxMksQrIYJU7f1D_lvSq2mgufOok_Y9UQBQ6QwMTRNQjwGBjnjQv1ObI_CspxLY/s400/photo+5.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I am currently obsessed with my mason jars. I prep food for the week in them doing overnight oats, parfaits or my favorite, cole slaw. This one was broccoli slaw with pepitas and sprouts. I do a <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/10-crisp-slaw-salads-for-summer-kitchn-recipe-roundup-173057">homemade vinaigrette </a>dressing on the bottom, when ready, just shake and eat. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMlbVAusbjPjyifMGOc3byImr4UQrLkNwB8NLVmswo3oWijcWxEGedlXzgOEXQeC3-BTTS6Pbih9q_dghyhmSd-UdJ_wGUz4zPiEDKogSyJeiKosafC9Jbuh-5uQNrOaJI4GNikF8OjkE/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMlbVAusbjPjyifMGOc3byImr4UQrLkNwB8NLVmswo3oWijcWxEGedlXzgOEXQeC3-BTTS6Pbih9q_dghyhmSd-UdJ_wGUz4zPiEDKogSyJeiKosafC9Jbuh-5uQNrOaJI4GNikF8OjkE/s400/photo+3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I'm obsessed with pass the pigs. It's sort of like a dice game, but with pigs. I can't get enough, and it fits in my purse. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha6tNgkQ6QYKEnesI88yNZMTRvBS9qjC6h-hVAXjOTTpNMHOkBfNU2hASnGuJKOUY5pgZWtCdgpFYRlibaVbnZ_lhstladFYLhZh6_YbVBQzFbDyotyxGkhGdN0nn-dmcNRStRb68zD7Q/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha6tNgkQ6QYKEnesI88yNZMTRvBS9qjC6h-hVAXjOTTpNMHOkBfNU2hASnGuJKOUY5pgZWtCdgpFYRlibaVbnZ_lhstladFYLhZh6_YbVBQzFbDyotyxGkhGdN0nn-dmcNRStRb68zD7Q/s400/photo+4.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Trail running. Instead of going to the stuffy gym, I get to be back in nature running before work. It's fantastic. This morning I ran passed a group of wild horses.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrRAHd9eMXFns6cWN0z3OK3LGLKdqXbx4CedC1ri7KaUrcWh6C_81JnoHvPyzxvp1ct8iuyj0jLww71LEOBeN2Ihfk5_rWdhpTT9jqaGwQ3mobHYHnOTpDhpklv8tIgS8qjrEa7Kc6RwU/s1600/photo+1+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrRAHd9eMXFns6cWN0z3OK3LGLKdqXbx4CedC1ri7KaUrcWh6C_81JnoHvPyzxvp1ct8iuyj0jLww71LEOBeN2Ihfk5_rWdhpTT9jqaGwQ3mobHYHnOTpDhpklv8tIgS8qjrEa7Kc6RwU/s400/photo+1+%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Chase and I found a new breakfast spot in Salem that has buckwheat pancakes. If you know anything about me, you know I can't have wheat or gluten HOWEVER I can eat buckwheat. And breakfast being my absolute favorite, I was gitty with excitement. There's something irresistible about diners to me, a nostalgia that cannot be surpassed. </div>
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<span class="text"><b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;">Don’t long for “the
good old days.”</span></b></span><span class="indent-1-breaks"><b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span></b></span><span class="text"><b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;">This is not wise.</span><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span class="text"><b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;">Accept the way God
does things,</span></b></span><b><span style="font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;"><br style="text-align: start;" />
</span></b><span class="indent-1-breaks"><b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="text-align: start;"> </span></span></b></span><span class="text"><b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;">for who
can straighten what he has made crooked?</span></b></span><b><span style="font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;"><br style="text-align: start;" /><span class="text"><span style="background: white;"><span id="en-NLT-17420" style="text-align: start;">enjoy prosperity while you can,</span></span></span><br style="text-align: start;" />
</span></b><span class="indent-1-breaks"><b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="text-align: start;"> </span></span></b></span><span class="text"><b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;">but when
hard times strike, realize that both come from God.</span></b></span><b><span style="font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;"><br style="text-align: start;" />
</span></b><span class="indent-1-breaks"><b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="text-align: start;"> </span></span></b></span><span class="text"><b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;">Remember
that nothing is certain in this life.</span><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span class="text"><b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 150%;">- -</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Eccleciastes 7:10, 13&14</span></span></b></span></div>
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There are days when I just want to go back to the "good ole days"... but then I realize these are those days. Living in this moment is the only certainty we can depend on; live with joy. </center>
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Remember to cherish today.//</center>
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________________________</center>
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Linking up with:</center>
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<a href="http://www.wild-and-precious.com/">Wild & Precious</a> for life lately &</center>
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<a href="http://www.carissagraham.com/search/label/miscellany%20monday" target="_blank"><img alt="lowercase letters" src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r72/follysurffisher/lowercaseletters.jpg" /></a></center>
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<br />laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-3011745151488681712013-06-20T06:28:00.000-07:002013-06-20T06:32:06.870-07:006.2 // Sometimes I forget to breathe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6UQKXMEsBgQ5cN05D1BlVMDFD1bAqGm1sCj_cYr3660L-ViUp0OqU8SGICAYdo0Z_TDyvCpitErYs0JPSlLyuLRamF9WDzowTJFll6By9FZCKA_q5ehWyaMC4QJof-rwXTZrVuUGO80/s1600/photo+1+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6UQKXMEsBgQ5cN05D1BlVMDFD1bAqGm1sCj_cYr3660L-ViUp0OqU8SGICAYdo0Z_TDyvCpitErYs0JPSlLyuLRamF9WDzowTJFll6By9FZCKA_q5ehWyaMC4QJof-rwXTZrVuUGO80/s400/photo+1+(5).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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//Confession: Sometimes I forget to breathe.<br />
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Without even knowing it I prayed myself into a coma. It's this feeling of not consciously spending time with God. My prayers feel muffled. It's like I'm lying there trying to wake up, trying to speak up, but its all in my head... Like no one can hear me.</div>
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It's an unfulfilling way to spend my time with God. I want Him to hear me, I want to be able to open my eyes and see His face. But instead I am lying there in the dark, with thoughts cycling in my head. And like trying to hold a conversation with a coma patient, it feels one sided and sad. </div>
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The frustration built in my heart and it lead to a couple days of pure sadness. This overwhelming feeling that I am alone, and no one, and certainly no God, is even listening. I felt stuck in this state of stagnancy unable to get up, be heard, or move forward.</div>
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Thankfully, God has placed unbelievably amazing people in my life who encourage me and remind me of truth. As I shared my concern about my inability to feel conscious, <a href="http://confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/04/45-i-wish-i-could-save-world-guest-post.html" target="_blank">my best friend</a> said something very profound: "I don't want to tell you not to pray, but maybe you just need to take a deep breathe. You are in His presence without talking to Him, He hears your every thought." </div>
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In that very moment, I closed my eyes and before my exhale was finished, I felt a grip tighten on my hand. <i>He is in this very room.</i> Holding my hand, He sat next to me telling me how much I mean to Him.</div>
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God is better than any doctor or family member because even in my coma-like unconsciousness, He hears my every mumble, my every overwhelming worry, my every <a href="http://confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/01/15.html" target="_blank">overanalyzed </a>thought. </div>
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When life pushes me to my emotional limit its easy to slip into a coma. To cope and lose hope and check out. All to easy to feel like I can't seem to wake up and get out of my own head. To sink into a place that leaves me feeling blind and lonely. </div>
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Inhale.</div>
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Exhale.</div>
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Inhale.</div>
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Exhale.</div>
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"Wake up oh sleeper. Rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." -Ephesians 5:14 </blockquote>
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<span style="text-align: right;">Prayer isn't always about being heard, sometimes it's just remembering the preciousness of God's presence.//</span></div>
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laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-33055329334454674872013-06-14T08:51:00.000-07:002013-06-14T08:59:30.646-07:006.1 // Occasionally I fall off the planet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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//Confession: Occasionally I fall off the planet<br />
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Maybe not in literal terms but in the writing world. Writer's block has a tendency to overwhelm me. And sometimes confessing my ups, downs, good, and bad just makes me feel exposed. Insecurity can creep in without an invitation.<br />
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I think as life moves forward, lives change, people change, and as this whirlwind happens around me, it's easy to get caught up in the feeling that I am the only one standing still. That everyone else is getting somewhere but not me. Though the thought isn't valid--everyday is an opportunity for growth if we allow it--it still can be difficult to avoid feelings of inadequacy.<br />
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Comparison kills joy.<br />
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When I find myself looking around me, noticing all the of the good going on in others lives, I lose sight of the greatness in mine. I lose that feeling of gratitude and sink into feelings of self-loathing. All that does is turn me into a hermit and causes me to question everything. That's the thing about giving into feelings of insecurity... it is a slippery slope straight into doubt.<br />
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I doubt that I am a good writer.<br />
I doubt that people care about me.<br />
I doubt that I am loved.<br />
I doubt that I am good enough.<br />
I doubt that I have worth.<br />
I doubt that I am going to have success in my life.<br />
I doubt that God is good.<br />
I doubt that I am beautiful inside or out.<br />
I doubt myself.<br />
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I can't say I'm alone. If you read the gospels, many Biblical friends had the same problem I do. Doubt arose in their hearts, pushing them into reality checks before they regained faith; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2014:24-31&version=NLT" target="_blank">Peter began to sink into the sea</a>, <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2020:24-29&version=NLT" target="_blank">Thomas put his hand in Jesus' wounds</a>, <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=%20John%2011:20-44&version=NLT" target="_blank">Mary & Martha's brother died</a>.<br />
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There's something about things being unstable in my life that cause me to be unstable in my thoughts. Rather than remembering the <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Samuel%2022:31,%20Isaiah%2049:8,%20John%2014:12,%2027,%20Zephaniah%203:17,%20&version=NLT" target="_blank">promises</a> of God, and the <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%2011:1-3&version=MSG" target="_blank">solid ground He offers</a>, I choose to wobble in doubt or to run away in fear.<br />
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James 1:5-8 says, "If you don’t know what you’re doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You’ll get his help, and won’t be condescended to when you ask for it. Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought. People who 'worry their prayers' are like wind-whipped waves. Don’t think you’re going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open."<br />
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That's what doubt does, it just keeps the mind open to all of these false ideas about life, yourself, and others. It redefines and twists truth. It makes security disappear, turning me into a worryful, self-reliant, doubting, lost heart. After each doubtful time in my and those Biblical friend's lives, Jesus always restores faith and hope. He never just lets me keep getting whipped around in my whirlwind of doubt.. he calms the storm and reminds me of how much He cares for me.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“</span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">and lift up your hands to him in prayer!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Get rid of your sins,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">and leave all iniquity behind you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Then your face will brighten with innocence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">You will be strong and free of fear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">You will forget your misery;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">it will be like water flowing away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Your life will be brighter than the noonday.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Even darkness will be as bright as morning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "BEAN POLE"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Having hope
will give you courage.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "BEAN POLE"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;">You will be
protected and will rest in safety."<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-Job 11:13-18<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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I'm back. Hopeful. Courageous. Safe. //</div>
</div>
</div>
laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-75905224130211799192013-05-11T14:29:00.001-07:002013-05-11T14:35:50.785-07:005.1 // I am poor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAr_qr_pfSCvQmYOHAtKpdXUFNQ4CdWdXCL0wpg_r1UFFEA8PDU9VH344D7LejnbyJpJFrDHbT8jFVpP3-HeEHi_Sd-CLopVSANxd_70wNWAjnSv3vwhzgagBJaOtvjRVt_amEMeyvcuc/s1600/everything.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAr_qr_pfSCvQmYOHAtKpdXUFNQ4CdWdXCL0wpg_r1UFFEA8PDU9VH344D7LejnbyJpJFrDHbT8jFVpP3-HeEHi_Sd-CLopVSANxd_70wNWAjnSv3vwhzgagBJaOtvjRVt_amEMeyvcuc/s400/everything.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
// Confession: I am poor.<br />
<br />
I think I'm finally ready to talk about it. I've been putting it off for some time now, as I do when I want to avoid the things that challenge.<br />
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I am an <a href="http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps" target="_blank">Americorps</a> VISTA (Volunteer In Service To America). VISTA provides full-time members to nonprofit, faith-based and other community organizations, and public agencies to create and expand programs that bring low-income individuals and communities out of poverty. AmeriCorps engages more than 80,000 Americans in intensive service each year.<br />
<br />
I work for an amazing nonprofit, <a href="http://theadvancementfoundation.org/" target="_blank">The Advancement Foundation</a>, coordinating PR, marketing, and events. I love my job, and I am learning so much. But it's more than expanding a resume. As a VISTA, I have signed up to live at the poverty level of the community I am serving. I gave up more than just money too; I left behind my family, friends, and my community, not to mention jumping up a few states. Having been here 6 months, it has started to take its toll.<br />
<br />
Work has always been a part of my life, the 40+ hours a week isn't the issue. I have never had a lot of money, but I have always worked hard to live comfortably. </div>
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Until now. This is not comfortable. It's more like wearing fleece pajamas at the beach, or having the chicken pox without calamine lotion. Being poor is hard.</div>
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There are so many politically charged debates about poverty and so many misguided views. I can say with confidence after becoming friends with so many struggling to make it--and as someone who is struggling herself, that you have no idea until you live it. As I find myself praying for miracles financially, I really understand the difficulties that come with this life.<br />
<br />
The highs of triumph are so quickly overshadowed by the lows of your phone getting shut off and the late fees that come with your partially paid bills. There is little joy in those lows--it's a feeling so hopeless it makes you want to give up and run away from it all. I get it now. Living it opens your eyes to how hard it actually is.<br />
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These days I spend most of my time on my knees, not asking for God to make this any easier but for Him to give me the strength to endure it and the wisdom to learn from it.</div>
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<br /></div>
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This experience has gifted me with so much already. The job experience is great, but nothing compares to what this journey is doing for my heart. I am humbled. I am seeing more of who I am without all of the worldly fluff to keep me happy and it's not pretty. I am so wrong about so many thing. My faith is challenged daily.<br />
<br />
I am being stripped of everything. And yet in having nothing, I feel as though God is giving me everything <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%206:3-10&version=NLT" target="_blank">(2 Cor 6)</a>. He continues to love and bless me despite my lack of belief, my fear, anger or discontentment. He is faithful. As my beautiful roommate prayed today, it isn't a characteristic of Him...it is who He is.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">A devout life does bring wealth, but it’s the </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">rich</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> simplicity of being yourself before God. Since we entered the world penniless and will leave it penniless, if we have bread on the table and shoes on our feet, that’s enough.</span> - 1 Timothy 6:6-8 (MSG)</blockquote>
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I don't want money. Jesus, You are enough.// </div>
</div>
laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-31637347622631378222013-04-19T07:42:00.000-07:002013-04-19T13:45:27.157-07:004.7 // I can't solve the world's problems<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmNiOQAYKNS64ThODMTJTgvqRwIDh1BfxEWoVq2Cx-Q8vuCHIOCEmfGhbRDzVYiLiuGQMhiIGx09a1W93ZtKYb_JEC20xyNsWejdLAsvAkb4nty8Azo7JOET3G7sgFs7AMAuDBLeNk-iQ/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmNiOQAYKNS64ThODMTJTgvqRwIDh1BfxEWoVq2Cx-Q8vuCHIOCEmfGhbRDzVYiLiuGQMhiIGx09a1W93ZtKYb_JEC20xyNsWejdLAsvAkb4nty8Azo7JOET3G7sgFs7AMAuDBLeNk-iQ/s400/photo+(1).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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//Confession: I can't solve the world's problems<br />
<br />
In the wake of this week's tragedies--a bombing in Boston and an explosion in West, Texas--with so many innocent lives lost, it's tough to even sit down and write anything at all. I mean what can I say or do to encourage the victim's families or help the wounded survivors. I put off posting yesterday because I wasn't sure that anything I have to offer will make any difference at all.<br />
<br />
Instead yesterday I prayed for my country, these hurting families, and the hearts of those watching from their living rooms. I cannot ignore or move forward pretending we aren't changed by these events. I cannot pretend I understand them.. I cannot say my prayers don't include questions. There are places in my heart that want to know why God doesn't stop this kind of thing. Despite those feelings I have to continue to trust that He is faithful and that He is good.<br />
<br />
On Sunday, Diana talked about <a href="http://www.confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/04/45-i-wish-i-could-save-world-guest-post.html" target="_blank">helping others</a> and I can so relate to the feelings of wanting to fix everyone's problems and help those in need. Sometimes, so much so that I takeover and try to make things happen or resolve situations for others without even consulting God. I loved <a href="http://www.confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/04/45-i-wish-i-could-save-world-guest-post.html" target="_blank">Diana's thoughts</a> on the one; that even though we cannot rescue the innocent from harm, or give the lonely a home, or feed all the grumbling stomach's around us: we can help one. We can use our lives and do our best to touch and love the unloved, the hurting, and rejected.<br />
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When it comes to the people on the side of the road looking for some relief, I cannot offer money. In the city you can walk by ten homeless people easily, it would be financially impossible to offer all of them help. Instead, I like to make "manna bags" for those homeless I may pass in my car or on the street. Most of the toiletry items are from the dollar store, sold in packs of 3-5 or bought in bulk from Wal-mart. To me this is an affordable and practical means of offering love and help.<br />
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<h3>
<span style="color: #76a5af;">Manna Bags</span></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0_LG4CGepyp4AJ9hkaXvmy0uEd1kRCYD5v2ZoGtbwFY6Gts0gCtPesuoq4WaM9evq0MzrQbNtL-JhNN12dU6D0fXYGj2kQxFIWjZyCpU6JqhZ1IhT2ETqznjyW0S3-fUVlf5nChRlFIk/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0_LG4CGepyp4AJ9hkaXvmy0uEd1kRCYD5v2ZoGtbwFY6Gts0gCtPesuoq4WaM9evq0MzrQbNtL-JhNN12dU6D0fXYGj2kQxFIWjZyCpU6JqhZ1IhT2ETqznjyW0S3-fUVlf5nChRlFIk/s400/photo+1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Contents: water, sunblock, toothpaste, toothbrush, peanuts, cookies, crackers, wet wipes, soap</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJe-q-G3cP1A-CPCeynK_B8EayRAcMbvMd_KUejrFO_WfhAHNMeB7jMD77UKLhu7Fqpr3zMqeywIP556bErlicKrrOF2EFsXvEU2Co1GzXYzId6NVC4Z5sLe6f7vJm7WUkXYfFX9tbhtM/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJe-q-G3cP1A-CPCeynK_B8EayRAcMbvMd_KUejrFO_WfhAHNMeB7jMD77UKLhu7Fqpr3zMqeywIP556bErlicKrrOF2EFsXvEU2Co1GzXYzId6NVC4Z5sLe6f7vJm7WUkXYfFX9tbhtM/s400/photo+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Contents: water, granola bar, wet wipes, tissues, swabs, crackers, soap, comb, lotion, sunblock</i></div>
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<br />
These of course are just example of some of the items I include but they are open to your personal interpretation. I also like to put verses of encouragement (<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B67MfpsxGM36Y29Ja0szTnF0MUk/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">click here</a> for a printable version of five passages I include in my bags). Something hand written is also great to put in there.<br />
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For me, this is more than a "hand out", it is instead a way to make someone feel valued and thought about. Many of the people I work with that have been homeless have told me they feel dehumanized and shunned by the community they live in. No person deserves to feel invaluable. It takes little time for me to put these together but I believe and pray that the impact is greater than I know.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
Maybe solving some of the world's problems begins with simple kindnesses, and genuine love for those we don't even know.// </div>
<br />laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-40906288958114704842013-04-16T09:30:00.000-07:002013-04-16T09:30:01.681-07:004.6 // I love Spring things [2]<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DOk2jVGM8oJGz2B_rcpBBFRcx7DzmKxwYqqIBrc4F5SAO7-7Moh9UgttV6KpbFqDwKfjT1KJcL1sSxa1Ka6bClPt4oWMP9BeZ9WdmbCfPeNOKLknal2zzSaTZrdquLw08D5oqUgmRAw/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DOk2jVGM8oJGz2B_rcpBBFRcx7DzmKxwYqqIBrc4F5SAO7-7Moh9UgttV6KpbFqDwKfjT1KJcL1sSxa1Ka6bClPt4oWMP9BeZ9WdmbCfPeNOKLknal2zzSaTZrdquLw08D5oqUgmRAw/s400/photo+4.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
// Confession: I love Spring things [2]<br />
<br />
Season have always been a fascination of mine, which is sort of ironic considering I have lived in Florida my entire life, where season do not exist. Maybe that's the reason for my current infatuation with all things <a href="http://confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/04/43-i-love-spring-things.html" target="_blank">Spring</a>. Six months of cold could also be a contributing factor.<br />
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<span style="color: #93c47d;">This weeks favorites:</span></h3>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Flowering trees</span></h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiPcEu11gIj5IfatR_MNvPOqxczwYgz5gt5HvFWoIDV62KCqWcpdnpdn9uxhrklvsgWFSdlQAQ_5MDNUCE_9_UJIWS3gBjrXb4JlhFy4iHhqzD0lgoo7KqMwkT40orXxH-r6EEkHX1PQ/s1600/floweringtree.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiPcEu11gIj5IfatR_MNvPOqxczwYgz5gt5HvFWoIDV62KCqWcpdnpdn9uxhrklvsgWFSdlQAQ_5MDNUCE_9_UJIWS3gBjrXb4JlhFy4iHhqzD0lgoo7KqMwkT40orXxH-r6EEkHX1PQ/s320/floweringtree.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Instead of green, I look up and see whites and pinks. It’s a
lovely thing.</div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Longer days</span></h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrz8E1RgwzXtthcqABUvU0GnSewK4MBnQSTWV2J5ZunJXhqWZlX6TjdlTvbgWpHlmAF5utid-AVsp1YtJY3RO0fypmLUpROjWXdzDtXE0P0LQ1GH2AKtP9PLnODdDDNf-BRnAOGE3fH7U/s1600/sunsetspring.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrz8E1RgwzXtthcqABUvU0GnSewK4MBnQSTWV2J5ZunJXhqWZlX6TjdlTvbgWpHlmAF5utid-AVsp1YtJY3RO0fypmLUpROjWXdzDtXE0P0LQ1GH2AKtP9PLnODdDDNf-BRnAOGE3fH7U/s320/sunsetspring.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Sun rises on my way to the gym, and stays up long enough for
me to watch it set on walks with my pup at night. I love that.</div>
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<h4>
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Gardening</span></h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2J0jxqT8CVt7dVJErS_KFlNwi_XcQ__Act37qoOJ8JTTQ15l0RV8oex5I0e5KhFTsXX63SEhkQQDzShadfmhqQ0o1nGee6lYT3P3w4ANptUp2nm-sOjxPWkLVRjDY0HHU4L5lRZOYkLc/s1600/gardeningspring.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2J0jxqT8CVt7dVJErS_KFlNwi_XcQ__Act37qoOJ8JTTQ15l0RV8oex5I0e5KhFTsXX63SEhkQQDzShadfmhqQ0o1nGee6lYT3P3w4ANptUp2nm-sOjxPWkLVRjDY0HHU4L5lRZOYkLc/s320/gardeningspring.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am no green thumb but during the temperature change and
budding of new life around me, it’s difficult to not want to watch something
grow. </div>
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<h4>
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Vitamin D</span></h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcXJzjKV4mHoURVdljmMhsCaCRLTMt3DYlTEKOSjQg3khQg1Ual9KPNCyDTcGcBz9-O47eRVLK5dnrE_tV648njwhaCOrBu0lvHTjqoGuKwk-p1Qqtrumr5iF6IVEA9xZMgCvCXqaN08/s1600/gsunshine.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcXJzjKV4mHoURVdljmMhsCaCRLTMt3DYlTEKOSjQg3khQg1Ual9KPNCyDTcGcBz9-O47eRVLK5dnrE_tV648njwhaCOrBu0lvHTjqoGuKwk-p1Qqtrumr5iF6IVEA9xZMgCvCXqaN08/s320/gsunshine.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yep, a bit of reading in the sunshine is just what the doctor
order for me. I may not have a sandy beach anymore but the sun is enough to
warm my heart and remind me of home.</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">What are your favorite things about Spring? I want to hear about them. Link up or comment to be eligible to win a <a href="http://lovemethreads.wix.com/lovemethreads#!portfolio/ctzx" target="_blank">Love Me Accessory or Scarf</a> in the <a href="http://confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/04/44-if-i-could-make-living-off-of-this-i.html" target="_blank">Spring giveaway</a>!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #e06666;">Link Up</span> <br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”"><img alt="”Confessions" border="”0″" heart="" height="200" my="" of="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGULdjc0eVdZq56Fs6wz7Byl5i2wiHrFAaqIy0UGQkG4elfnZCQZoqXb1CeQs8yBvOSYeJcn81qN6HswAvH5Am-R6tpKmsBXW8xLD47Qrl9PNWYAJI0sfxcPUWKUbOvk7m3mAX9lD4aNw/s200/photo+4.JPG" wandering="" width="200" /></a><br />
<textarea cols="”15″" name="”1″" rows="”3″" style="height: 52px; margin: 0px; width: 199px;"><a href=”http://www.confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com” target=”_blank”><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGULdjc0eVdZq56Fs6wz7Byl5i2wiHrFAaqIy0UGQkG4elfnZCQZoqXb1CeQs8yBvOSYeJcn81qN6HswAvH5Am-R6tpKmsBXW8xLD47Qrl9PNWYAJI0sfxcPUWKUbOvk7m3mAX9lD4aNw/s270/photo+4.JPG" alt=”Confessions of my wandering heart” border=”0″ /></a></textarea>
laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-67114587574352595632013-04-14T07:21:00.001-07:002013-04-14T07:24:14.619-07:004.5 // I wish I could save the world [guest post]<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FxoERu0HHg7TCb8zRZF2z460LV-HEf2DOGgcSZSTXYOwhYjawEVTc1DPvh9IBWhn59TMTdgHfzdZmbsSUUXJgJM6jUNSaheI9lnIatIhYocBBCnS_QOVgQW-UnW-VaUc0J6nLdDnTv8/s1600/van.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FxoERu0HHg7TCb8zRZF2z460LV-HEf2DOGgcSZSTXYOwhYjawEVTc1DPvh9IBWhn59TMTdgHfzdZmbsSUUXJgJM6jUNSaheI9lnIatIhYocBBCnS_QOVgQW-UnW-VaUc0J6nLdDnTv8/s400/van.JPG" title="(c)2013 Confessions of my wandering heart" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<h3 style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #ffd966;">Guest post by Diana Humphries</span></span></h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">\\ Confession: I wish I could save the world.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Most of the time my head can't keep up with my heart's ideas. I wish I could be a super hero mixed with Peter Pan and a sprinkle of Princess dust. I want to save the world, feed the poor, and look pretty doing it.<br />I just want to make a difference in any and every way I can. I don't want to get to The Gates upstairs and have God ask me why I didn't help the people He placed around me. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />God has given me a heart for many things, especially the homeless. When it comes to those in need of food and shelter I cannot help but wish I could magically solve their problems.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />I'm realizing more and more that sometimes it's not about the 99 sheep but the 1 lost one. There's always debate about giving food or money to the people standing on street corners with signs that say "homeless please help". My heart breaks when I make eye contact and see the hurt in these individuals faces. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Recently, I noticed a man in an old white van every day at the beach across the street from my house. After seeing him several days in a row I figured out that he lives in the van with his dog. He looks as though he hasn't showered in weeks, let alone been fed a good meal. I am beyond blessed to say that I honestly don't know what that feels like. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />This past Easter, my fiancé and I went for a walk on the beach in between our two family dinners--where we had way too much food--and saw him again. We decided to go back and make an "Easter Basket" for him. We filled it with muffins, ham, candy, water, drinks, dog treats (of course), and a few other goodies.<br />Dropping it off was the best part. He was tearful in his thank you. The smile he gave was unforgettable. Needless to say I've gone back a few times now with more homemade meals. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />I don't have a lot of money, not by a long stretch. Most of the time I'm barely making my bills. But I do trust that Jesus is ALWAYS faithful and ALWAYS good. He has provided in ways I never thought possible, which in turn gives me opportunities to bless others in His name. I know that I cannot feed all the hungry people in this world but maybe for now it's just about this one. If Jesus went after one lost sheep, maybe that's what he wants me to do too. I guess that's the result of the prayer I've been praying the last couple years..."Jesus, break my heart for what breaks yours". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I may not be able to save the world but I know a Man who came to die, and He did just that.//</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>____________</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Special thanks to my beautiful best friend and God-given sister, Diana, for sharing her heart. I am blessed to have a friend who loves, challenges, and encourages me daily--even from a distance.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i style="font-family: inherit;">Don't forget to link up or comment this Tuesday with <a href="http://confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/04/43-i-love-spring-things.html" target="_blank">Spring Things</a> to be eligible for <a href="http://confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/04/44-if-i-could-make-living-off-of-this-i.html" target="_blank">the giveaway</a>, and come back for simple ways you can serve others on Thursday. Have a blessed week my friends! </i></span></div>
<br />laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-90688608798336861762013-04-12T07:05:00.002-07:002013-04-12T10:35:18.889-07:004.4// If I could make a living off of this I would [+Spring giveaway info]<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEm4vQJ5bE1WG1Bukf_6N_CTbVs69kz3PGtkO76U4m3eRTu-3RufyjxGrLo4sxn6g8eWi7EwQ9SRRIGqwEcuzlz_0NOs81x7E55NQAZxBrNk0PFyPfxOOEN3h0G3AZjyRs48sf7cZWlkM/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEm4vQJ5bE1WG1Bukf_6N_CTbVs69kz3PGtkO76U4m3eRTu-3RufyjxGrLo4sxn6g8eWi7EwQ9SRRIGqwEcuzlz_0NOs81x7E55NQAZxBrNk0PFyPfxOOEN3h0G3AZjyRs48sf7cZWlkM/s400/photo+1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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// Confession: If I could make a living off of this I would</div>
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Some of you may know that since 2009 I had my own small business called Love Me Accessories, (which transitioned to Love Me Threads over the last year). Due to my contract as an Americorps VISTA, I have vowed to live in poverty for a year. With that, my little Etsy shop has been closed and my jewelry, scarves and fun creations are on hold.<br />
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Right before I closed up shop I got the joy of doing my first bridal party. It was so much fun working with Mychael. After a few emails and some ideas of what she was looking for I created two samples for her. The cluster style necklace she chose was stunning. Along with the bridal necklace, she wanted eight more small versions of the necklace for her bridesmaids as a surprise for them. They came out so beautifully and the bridal party was stunning so I had to share some of the photos from the fairy tale day. These gorgeous photos are by <a href="http://tarasprocphotography.com/index2.php#/home/" target="_blank">Tara Sproc</a>.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhR30rRekLbM7hjYCT1aQdBnym-ObMdJ_k1xSjrmJ4rRdlJ3GfTlDKTSXiTsBgI23L6RX3yLHHCrqAtgWjZiyO29ZxueEi6a6B3gvEkdBRZH5mP5xOQwsV2J8ZaBPyl8Y3feHTnPwUok/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhR30rRekLbM7hjYCT1aQdBnym-ObMdJ_k1xSjrmJ4rRdlJ3GfTlDKTSXiTsBgI23L6RX3yLHHCrqAtgWjZiyO29ZxueEi6a6B3gvEkdBRZH5mP5xOQwsV2J8ZaBPyl8Y3feHTnPwUok/s640/photo+3.JPG" title="(c) Tara Sproc" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: xx-small;"><i>Photo cred for all photos below: <a href="http://tarasprocphotography.com/index2.php#/home/" target="_blank">Tara Sproc</a></i></span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhObctgEQVt2gQgfmB1OXk8PNEsm7VsbEgpCuOUovj-ThgwnV6VocJyptedHNFWZ46xul-btGmmYUfvrmfFYZp-5vSHqTS3pUifkuxa3YlPSRsvJlgM30phTXGXRQhQ_rl7MT70zS2mKek/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhObctgEQVt2gQgfmB1OXk8PNEsm7VsbEgpCuOUovj-ThgwnV6VocJyptedHNFWZ46xul-btGmmYUfvrmfFYZp-5vSHqTS3pUifkuxa3YlPSRsvJlgM30phTXGXRQhQ_rl7MT70zS2mKek/s400/photo+5.JPG" title="(c) Tara Sproc" width="400" /></a></div>
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In my last blog I talked about having a spring giveaway in April and May. The giveaway will include a piece of jewelry and summer scarf by Love Me. All you have to do to be eligible for the giveaway is comment on a <a href="http://www.confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/04/43-i-love-spring-things.html" target="_blank">Spring Things</a> blog with what you love about spring or Link up. I will choose one blogger who links up and one commenting friend! Want to see more of my goodies? <a href="http://lovemethreads.wix.com/lovemethreads#!portfolio/ctzx" target="_blank">Click here.</a> </div>
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<span style="text-align: right;">I'm in no rush. Though I miss my little business some days, I'm okay with taking time to learn, grow and do other things. </span>Who knows what the future holds, but I'm just fine with where God has me right now.<br />
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Wherever you are in life, be all there.//</div>
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laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-80676485156252514152013-04-09T09:00:00.000-07:002013-04-09T09:00:10.642-07:004.3 // I love Spring things<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixfyt-Y9TfJt7UfPZX2at-K8RHAtBjM6VhuHGCj-9esfacQS3rQ9t70ryVgOxSdwUGVo9okH9ZjTk-Sa2_PF1yaGPgCMGrbCL5-CXBVGj7Squ3tKBGN1VHQaO_hSZXxzOiHlgF_S_tqWQ/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixfyt-Y9TfJt7UfPZX2at-K8RHAtBjM6VhuHGCj-9esfacQS3rQ9t70ryVgOxSdwUGVo9okH9ZjTk-Sa2_PF1yaGPgCMGrbCL5-CXBVGj7Squ3tKBGN1VHQaO_hSZXxzOiHlgF_S_tqWQ/s400/photo+4.JPG" title="copyright Confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com" width="400" /></a></div>
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//Confession: I love spring things.</div>
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Maybe it’s just me but I can’t help but love spring time. Warmer
weather has makes me all kinds of happy.
Here are a few of my current irresistible spring pleasures.</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">White Shoes</span></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4SeVXTgoCuc8ijKZ3jjFCSCxpE1Itg09uD7AmRhVVvLA-ijD2oB40pm4o7UoBr5fnb7L3GNeh4PbRZLNVDX2aagsGfIzv3g4nfJfHcGRk6rECXSCK8zY53pK5r8D-MEfIb0yn5XO-RJs/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4SeVXTgoCuc8ijKZ3jjFCSCxpE1Itg09uD7AmRhVVvLA-ijD2oB40pm4o7UoBr5fnb7L3GNeh4PbRZLNVDX2aagsGfIzv3g4nfJfHcGRk6rECXSCK8zY53pK5r8D-MEfIb0yn5XO-RJs/s320/photo+2.JPG" title="copyright Confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com" width="320" /></a></div>
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I don’t care what kind... and I know they get dirty. I still
love them.</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">My Porch Swing</span></h3>
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Even if I still occasionally need a blanket. I love
swinging in the breeze, chatting with God, and sipping on tea. </div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">Spring Cleaning</span></h3>
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Yep, I’m that girl. It’s therapeutic packing up my winter
clothes, organizing, and unpacking the spring/ summer goodies. I also enjoy cleaning my
other house, with a juice cleanse. Fresh start; mind, body, & soul!</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">Jumpers</span></h3>
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They make me want to play, I think it’s a childhood thing, I
don’t know but I love them. </div>
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What are your favorite things about Spring? I am hoping to get some of my blogging friends to join me in
a little link up in months of April & May, posting your favorite spring things. Maybe it’s just
one thing that caught your attention, or lots of things you can’t get enough
of; I want to hear about them.</div>
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For my non-blogging friends, comment below! Share with friends, or grab a button and link up. <i>{Any participants will be up for a special spring gift giveaway, more on that later this week}.</i></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">Link Up</span></h4>
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”"><img alt="”Confessions" border="”0″" heart="" height="200" my="" of="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGULdjc0eVdZq56Fs6wz7Byl5i2wiHrFAaqIy0UGQkG4elfnZCQZoqXb1CeQs8yBvOSYeJcn81qN6HswAvH5Am-R6tpKmsBXW8xLD47Qrl9PNWYAJI0sfxcPUWKUbOvk7m3mAX9lD4aNw/s200/photo+4.JPG" wandering="" width="200" /></a><br />
<textarea cols="”15″" name="”1″" rows="”3″"><a href=”http://www.confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com” target=”_blank”><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGULdjc0eVdZq56Fs6wz7Byl5i2wiHrFAaqIy0UGQkG4elfnZCQZoqXb1CeQs8yBvOSYeJcn81qN6HswAvH5Am-R6tpKmsBXW8xLD47Qrl9PNWYAJI0sfxcPUWKUbOvk7m3mAX9lD4aNw/s270/photo+4.JPG" alt=”Confessions of my wandering heart” border=”0″ /></a></textarea></div>
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Spring makes me feel
generous ;) //</div>
<br />laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-4031848588949255482013-04-04T13:46:00.000-07:002013-04-04T13:46:03.983-07:004.2 // I deserved the ticket<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGE1l4l2G7NsPMnfvZC6QEbW4Yq7Gb8PBpp6baypD07n-ZjNJ3D0iPyToqp_x3mQ5p0OYNa4NKrxq53IoHPESHNsCLdvCTIpWlHOWhIZvcohYmPfxHtuu524nf_D3JthM9TqHlQJIgzUk/s1600/grace1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGE1l4l2G7NsPMnfvZC6QEbW4Yq7Gb8PBpp6baypD07n-ZjNJ3D0iPyToqp_x3mQ5p0OYNa4NKrxq53IoHPESHNsCLdvCTIpWlHOWhIZvcohYmPfxHtuu524nf_D3JthM9TqHlQJIgzUk/s400/grace1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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//Confession: I deserved the ticket.</div>
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In the darkness of the night, Taylor Swift blasting, I sang along belting out as if I was singing at the Grammy’s.<span style="color: #351c75;"><b>“Cuz I knew you were trouble when you walked
in, so shame on me now. Flew me to
places i'd never been... trouble! Trouble! Troubllllllllle!”</b></span> <i> </i>I approached the highway, and glanced in my rear view. And I saw
them. Those lights you never want to see, blue and red, drawing closer to my
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Trouble. Crap. <i>I’m</i>
in trouble. </div>
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I was speeding, I was sure of it (though not on purpose). I hadn’t been paying attention, which usually means I’m speeding. (Thanks for
the lead foot dad.) I immediately regretted my nonchalant disregard for the
obvious: a speed limit. My normal response would be tears. But this was one of those circumstances
where I knew I was getting a ticket. This wasn’t going to be good.</div>
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The officer asked me, "do you
know the speed limit on this road?"</div>
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My response: I’m gonna guess about 35?</div>
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His reply: Yes ma’am. You were going about 55. </div>
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My response: Wow, really? That’s unfortunate. I’m very sorry
about that.</div>
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His reply: Yes ma’am, it is unfortunate, especially since we
are doing speed enforcement this evening. </div>
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Everything he said indicated I was getting a ticket, and I
knew it was deserved. I wasn’t going to try and fight it. I was going 20 miles
over the speed limit at midnight; common sense tells me that’s breaking the
law. </div>
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He came back, asked me for my current address and filled out
what I assumed was the ticket. Then something very unexpected happened. The officer looked me in the eyes and said, “I am not going to give you a ticket this evening. You have
a long drive home, just drive safe ma’am.”</div>
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I sort of stared at him for a second in shock. “Seriously? .... You just blessed me so much.” He laughed
at me and nodded his head. </div>
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I drove away thanking God, but wondering what the heck just
happened. I was in awe of how nice he was. I tried to justify my actions, thinking, <i>well I mean I really didn’t mean to speed</i>.
Regardless, I knew what I deserved. </div>
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When I really thought about it, it was grace at it's finest. Did I mention this was on Easter? That’s what really got me, it’s the
perfect example of the cross. There are times in walking with God when my intention
isn’t to sin but I find myself in a situation doing just that; going directly
against what I know God desires for me. I know when I’m in the wrong. But just like that officer, the cross gives
me the second chance I don’t deserve. Jesus
walks up to me, looks me in the eyes and says I forgive you; you are free. Time
and time and time again. The cross offers me unconditional grace. No tickets,
no fees, no insurance increases. When my sinful nature takes over, I deserve punishment. The beauty of the cross is that if my heart is repentant, sin doesn’t win; grace wins. Everytime. Grace offers me an undeserved fresh start. It
never ceases to amaze me.</div>
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I saw grace in my rear view mirror.//</div>
laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-49404738249134104772013-04-01T09:29:00.002-07:002013-04-01T09:34:16.392-07:004.1 // It's possible to delight in depravity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPyeXMAWhKErZ8Igjolc5GwH2bdPG4nRvLU3HpMP-ergzsf0XdyS5s2l-PklNtZZIyzA94duWKKha-nJltDZ3OcsCSO-sUy2KZxPjp2xsyM7qGsBfv5Yo1vRG16WXsZ0aXNXwk9mXDnE/s1600/delightblog.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPyeXMAWhKErZ8Igjolc5GwH2bdPG4nRvLU3HpMP-ergzsf0XdyS5s2l-PklNtZZIyzA94duWKKha-nJltDZ3OcsCSO-sUy2KZxPjp2xsyM7qGsBfv5Yo1vRG16WXsZ0aXNXwk9mXDnE/s400/delightblog.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
// Confession: It's possible to delight in depravity.<br />
<br />
Well, lent is over. 40 days later it's easy to sort of feel like, 'now what?' The reality is that I will go back to the things I gave up. So, the question becomes, what do I walk away from lent with? I don't want to just pat myself on the back and say congrats.<br />
<br />
In my reflection I have realized a few things. The first is that <a href="http://confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/02/24.html" target="_blank">"depravity"</a> isn't all that bad, in fact I can honestly say I have been happier and more joyful in the last 40 days than I have been in a very long time. Without even being conscious of it I found myself laughing more, enjoying the little things, and overall having a more positive attitude. I wouldn't have guessed that joy would be a side effect of sacrifice.<br />
<br />
That brings me to the second thing I realized, that when I willingly surrender things in my life I experience what it means to love God. I am called to serve God of course, but I am first called to love him. Any human relationship I experience requires compromise, sacrifice, and investment. The same goes for my relationship with God; lent for me was more than just a feeling of "duty", it was an act of love.<br />
<br />
Loving someone, including God, shouldn't be a task on the to do list, or a feeling of obligation. It should bring me just as much happiness as laughing over Skype with my mom and dad, a date with Chase, or breakfast with my best friend. I love those people, I would do anything for them. That's what lent was for me, simply loving God. Depravity didn't make my life miserable; it made me happy. It was like sitting across from Jesus and just enjoying him. No obligations or expectations, just me and Him, being friends.<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'BEAN POLE'; font-size: 24pt;"><span style="color: #a64d79;">"We are the
average of the 5 people we spend the most time with" //Jim Rohn</span></span></div>
</div>
<br />
When it comes to relationships, we are greatly influenced. Relationships with people affect ways of thinking, self-esteem, and decision making. Being intentional about my relationship with God is so important. He can help me grow and hold me accountable, and press me towards stronger faith.<br />
<br />
I walk away from lent with the realization that I want to just be in love with God. I don't want to feel like He is constantly looking for me to 'get better' but that He just wants to enjoy time together; to be my friend. I want my relationship with God to be based on delight not duty. I want to love Him like I do the people in my life, with an appreciation for who they are, and an excitement to know them better--not out of obligation but desire.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
I want Jesus to be one of my 5 people.//</div>
laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-13989031473855280872013-03-28T07:21:00.000-07:002013-03-28T07:21:57.980-07:003.5 // Sometimes I surprise myself<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCxsBB6N4vxUcN2-EuVTzkq7M5m8lzToLEJIFxuW1OHoSNCqT-cl2dln39ZEs8H_P_JXLS062ifi1STXA1ntP0eU1qsHOGoqBTLe91Ryg6VleHOvbZFIN94lDtrFcbBUgtEOKkO9h9exM/s1600/crab11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCxsBB6N4vxUcN2-EuVTzkq7M5m8lzToLEJIFxuW1OHoSNCqT-cl2dln39ZEs8H_P_JXLS062ifi1STXA1ntP0eU1qsHOGoqBTLe91Ryg6VleHOvbZFIN94lDtrFcbBUgtEOKkO9h9exM/s400/crab11.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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// Confession: Sometimes I surprise myself<br />
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Every once in a while I get a craving for something sort of out of the ordinary. Recently, the haunting came from the desire for a crab cake. Having a wheat/gluten intolerance sort of eliminates an enormous catagory of food from my life; one which largely encompasses anything delicious. Crab cakes are out of the picture for two reasons, 1. I can't have bread crumbs 2. I hate mayonnaise.<br />
<br />
So I scoured the internet for gluten free recipes determined to fulfill this craving with little luck. If it was gluten free, it had mayo and if it had no mayo it had bread crumbs or other unappealing fillers. I decided to 'wing it' after getting an idea of how to make them from the recipes I read. Based on my previous cooking ideas this was not a route that guaranteed success, however I went for it anyway. The result was not a failure though, in fact they were pretty darn amazing if I do say so myself. Give my healthier version of crabcakes a try, see what ya think, they might surprise you.<br />
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<h3>
<span style="color: #f6b26b;">Gluten Free Crab Cakes</span></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRyosuzZb7zt2B04BoTBfYLD9hLDzbxkTgqChAi2MT8eS1mgg6mAoX60WjoUEI-iozYJssw17WQNCBi7Ng81rBCMuHCCsE3IEi31Tw6J19dKU26rs_V-AUgp0TcDcKxILL14P2ji7AHIs/s1600/crab3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRyosuzZb7zt2B04BoTBfYLD9hLDzbxkTgqChAi2MT8eS1mgg6mAoX60WjoUEI-iozYJssw17WQNCBi7Ng81rBCMuHCCsE3IEi31Tw6J19dKU26rs_V-AUgp0TcDcKxILL14P2ji7AHIs/s320/crab3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQnFObrk0LzW9GDTY3ym4_200y6zxs3iZmUxLyodDsF4Ux1Jgw_UWckQfQTPtK5NtktGmCm1ECTnlOcLhvmZBKnvuo6EI_gEPfGMGsvnvfluaRjox50d6nLAnAGHFEJ6Gr8gzOmbSO70/s1600/crab4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQnFObrk0LzW9GDTY3ym4_200y6zxs3iZmUxLyodDsF4Ux1Jgw_UWckQfQTPtK5NtktGmCm1ECTnlOcLhvmZBKnvuo6EI_gEPfGMGsvnvfluaRjox50d6nLAnAGHFEJ6Gr8gzOmbSO70/s320/crab4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
1/4 c Celery<br />
1/4 c Onion<br />
3/4 c Rice Crispy Cereal<br />
2 tbsp brown rice flour <br />
<br />
1/4 tsp Salt<br />
1/4 tsp pepper<br />
1/4 cayenne<br />
1/4 parsley<br />
<br />
1 egg<br />
1 tbsp coconut oil<br />
2 tbsp almond or coconut milk<br />
1 tbsp Dijon mustard<br />
8 oz. Crab meat.<br />
1/4 cup shredded cheese<br />
2 tbsp grapeseed oil (for frying)<br />
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Mix all of the dry ingredients in a medium bowl. In another bowl beat egg, oil, mustard, and milk until mixed well. Combine ingredients, adding crab and cheese. Shape into three patties; cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJslYOIZHzohOPDnCtejtq4Pxr3Jt5PtMjxXRcFpWrqbdbNa4ASCLNeY5Dx9DXhT_lT8muAIMP0GrRlgYPWGs1v0xSDIPmUaYGLzqBJmzb6CIFWmqYq70-wd6PedbFlqJHd7ytI9V55nA/s1600/crab2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJslYOIZHzohOPDnCtejtq4Pxr3Jt5PtMjxXRcFpWrqbdbNa4ASCLNeY5Dx9DXhT_lT8muAIMP0GrRlgYPWGs1v0xSDIPmUaYGLzqBJmzb6CIFWmqYq70-wd6PedbFlqJHd7ytI9V55nA/s320/crab2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Heat about 2 tbsp grapeseed oil (any kind of oil it fine) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the crab cakes until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxW97qXJ65f81KwPze0aY5A_qYvRPlP7jZPxToLhIOM9WClw5rYU9yWWmB3qTu1_qE1En9fmV6fTjry_ukaS4m4UnzmQ0r87vQe48LD5ItYpRiep5vyXp1B99gbygl8UsxJ7XHjlprDZg/s1600/crab5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxW97qXJ65f81KwPze0aY5A_qYvRPlP7jZPxToLhIOM9WClw5rYU9yWWmB3qTu1_qE1En9fmV6fTjry_ukaS4m4UnzmQ0r87vQe48LD5ItYpRiep5vyXp1B99gbygl8UsxJ7XHjlprDZg/s320/crab5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mine may have not looked perfect but they tasted delicious. It was such a treat to be able to enjoy something I normally would have to skip out on, plus there was a bit of extra satisfaction in 'winging' a surprisingly successful recipe.<i> </i></div>
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<i>Download this recipe in a <a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B67MfpsxGM36QlhrcFNXZ2c3a2M/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">printable version here</a>. </i></div>
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Gluten free never tasted so good. //</div>
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laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-8024251426331258152013-03-24T19:20:00.002-07:002013-03-24T19:31:49.042-07:003.4 // I have been deceived<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLo055pdQZ9jz6t9G1Z4Ijb-SpViJV6LEmNFxSoI_Y2-SnPGacWUiddkCXaZzwDbsG6yr_qrZszXK-0IO9wfzEVUCnip9voUVmR5dvZw2-VjTn8gv0W_Cf2TzIoJBsQnMVy-EWoQZh_Os/s1600/tree1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLo055pdQZ9jz6t9G1Z4Ijb-SpViJV6LEmNFxSoI_Y2-SnPGacWUiddkCXaZzwDbsG6yr_qrZszXK-0IO9wfzEVUCnip9voUVmR5dvZw2-VjTn8gv0W_Cf2TzIoJBsQnMVy-EWoQZh_Os/s400/tree1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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//Confession: I have been deceived<br />
<div>
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I couldn't help but feel it. I felt dry. I feel stagnant and stuck, not growing with God but not going backwards either. I'm just dead. </div>
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<div>
I had been thinking this for weeks trying to pray my way out of it. No signs of life, or so I thought. After a night of rest, I hit the road to Blacksburg as I do sometimes for a day away. The drive is lovely; I have always really enjoyed it. This morning I noticed it was quiet. I hadn't turned the radio on, and as I rounded the corner I noted how lovely the mountains and hills are, even covered with barren trees. How can I still find them beautiful? I thought to myself, as I studied there leafless branches and seemingly black trunks. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
In that moment it hit me. They only look dead, they may even feel dead but they are very much alive. A forest filled with life, roots thriving deep below the soils surface. </div>
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<div>
That's the thing in Christianity we don't often talk about. If you're a new believer, you are growing leaps and bounds, learning and soaking up all that you can. But as you come to walk with Jesus there are times when He doesn't feel far away, but you're not sure He's all that close either. It's a place that feels stagnant, like a tree in the winter. Not dead, but not growing. My heart, like a tree in the winter, is seeking the warmth of the sun. It is dry and in need of fresh rain, waiting for the season to change. The wait is when vulnerability is at its peak. Like winter trees, I am susceptible to freezing rain and snow. And just as snow packs onto branches, the weight of the enemy's lies become heavy enough to break you.</div>
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<br /></div>
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'<i>God doesn't hear you, he doesn't love you... you are a wanderer, you don't even know God. you still sin all the time. you aren't living for God, what does that even mean to you.. look at you dead in your sinfulness...'</i> the enemy's voice hisses lies. I am deceived by an enemy who wants me dead. </div>
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I am not dead. I am deceived.</div>
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<div>
Deceit is meant to keep me frozen in fear; blind me from the blessings. Lies are meant to bind me and keep me from thanking my God, who is near. It hopes to keep me from praising the One who even in a season of struggle or stillness has purpose for my life and hope for my future. </div>
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<b><span style="color: #76923c; font-family: "BEAN POLE"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 191;">"I am
telling you this so no one will deceive you with well-crafted arguments. For
though I am far away from you, my heart is with you. And I rejoice that you are
living as you should and that your faith in Christ is strong. And now, just as
you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him.<sup> </sup>Let your roots grow down
into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong
in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness." -</span></b><b><span style="color: #76923c; font-family: "BEAN POLE"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 191;">Colossians 2:4-7</span></b><b><span style="color: #76923c; font-family: "BEAN POLE"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 191;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div>
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<div>
So here I sit, facing the reality that my heart may be experiencing a bit of a winter storm. But spring isn't far off and I cannot be silent. <span style="text-align: right;">If I am alive and all I can do is praise Him--knowing He is faithful--I am fulfilling</span><span style="text-align: right;"> a destiny of being rooted in Jesus and trusting God. </span></div>
<div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
I am alive.//</div>
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laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-78141125479563441452013-03-18T13:53:00.003-07:002013-03-18T13:53:15.231-07:003.3// My outfit was ten dollars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8uFW-BVetaGaZdroa5W5MTp3dL07NKQ-Fjoc8PRfZRPLxVUtiMMeU2EhsK7Rcoo12muSX_Fsp80K0giMTKt8RBhQhkIldrvt733UBc-vybcx2hrac0LTvUoRZD_2XkaumdR0oJe6BKH8/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8uFW-BVetaGaZdroa5W5MTp3dL07NKQ-Fjoc8PRfZRPLxVUtiMMeU2EhsK7Rcoo12muSX_Fsp80K0giMTKt8RBhQhkIldrvt733UBc-vybcx2hrac0LTvUoRZD_2XkaumdR0oJe6BKH8/s400/photo+3.JPG" title="confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;"><i><span style="color: #999999; font-size: xx-small;">photos by <a href="http://thevuvobandit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Chase Daniel</a></span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
//Confession: My outfit was less than ten dollars...and from a thrift store.<br />
<br />
Before there was a song about it, I have been intrigued by the findings at garage sales and goodwill's. I would say that my fascination with the old, however, began after my great aunt passed away and I inherited some of her jewelry. Antiqued, unique; I was hooked. <br />
<br />
With an overarching love of fashion, thrifting becomes a sort of thrill. It's almost an art to be able to recognize something wearable amongst what can seem like a sea of worn mildewed clothing. The goal is to find the diamond in the rough. I am all about finding items that don't go out of style and making it my own. Pairing the "old" with what <a href="http://www.instyle.com/instyle/package/springtrends/photos/0,,20671594_20667351_21270455,00.html" target="_blank">currently trending</a> is my favorite.<br />
<br />
Old or not, living in poverty means no trips to the mall. This is proof that you CAN find fashion in a thrift store if you're willing to search (and wash). <br />
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I will admit that it can be overwhelming. I suggest making a day of it. Rushing won't get you anywhere. Try a few shops. If you're not sure where to start, I suggest something simple and classic. Have an idea of <a href="http://www.luckymag.com/shopping/2009/10/weekend_fullskirts#/slide=2" target="_blank">what to look for</a>, it narrows down the search. Check out websites like <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/search?keyword=a+line+skirt&category=all-categories&commit=Search" target="_blank">Modcloth</a> or <a href="http://pinterest.com/lala116/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> to see what colors and patterns are trending then go out with a few favorite looks in mind that you might like to replicate. I'll start simple, a classic shape flattering essential:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-I8PEgRjgRmbk6xfyrtuhR19FbaoABRu_Coggggw607QMtbkjEp6ND0isTH-TdfWZGH8d0kklpr3sjbs6ugypcetSWSwIO6GYweTKgIqopM319oAWCMTMX0JZILKV28cRCahUidJEKg/s1600/vintage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-I8PEgRjgRmbk6xfyrtuhR19FbaoABRu_Coggggw607QMtbkjEp6ND0isTH-TdfWZGH8d0kklpr3sjbs6ugypcetSWSwIO6GYweTKgIqopM319oAWCMTMX0JZILKV28cRCahUidJEKg/s320/vintage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">The Highwaste A-line Skirt</span></h3>
<h4>
<span style="color: #38761d;">SPRING CLASSIC</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLpJ2tPJlAIWYsdnaqeZ4IZl8ymP810QWrmrqFD593m5CVcBgiGhE1vlhJnT2tx5vmTvGa63kL61vObLrl9BK0og9NQTt5rKnp-jTnrRXIlyUPI12sqcikf27kZ8dpzzpg6QdvKMlgOM/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLpJ2tPJlAIWYsdnaqeZ4IZl8ymP810QWrmrqFD593m5CVcBgiGhE1vlhJnT2tx5vmTvGa63kL61vObLrl9BK0og9NQTt5rKnp-jTnrRXIlyUPI12sqcikf27kZ8dpzzpg6QdvKMlgOM/s400/photo+1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Linen white skirt // Cap sleeve geo knit sweater // Vintage "9west" sandal wedges // Woven belt</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtTPEeuBthkyIk2vK0VDFz8CkOISs2gzG2JjSmh2gWkyyDJvmGKQiWW3Dw-W-PmgHSZZ6wsN7YQPs2boczZehyK_zECcTm49ecoBIe7iOHfUCtp_xEnXixtlHgtVpFYkloDMaZf3Bh7c/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtTPEeuBthkyIk2vK0VDFz8CkOISs2gzG2JjSmh2gWkyyDJvmGKQiWW3Dw-W-PmgHSZZ6wsN7YQPs2boczZehyK_zECcTm49ecoBIe7iOHfUCtp_xEnXixtlHgtVpFYkloDMaZf3Bh7c/s400/photo+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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$3.75 + $2.75 + $2.00 + hand me down belt from mom = $8.50 for the outfit</div>
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<h4>
<span style="color: #38761d;">EVERYDAY CLASSIC</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWV61xtsVTlBpdti61OzMDkUFPuJkBCoSD6FTs-T_neye9GOTeloZveHVN3ZC6zFc9E698L2pUc_wmLFMKC68_Dg2hFSKNI1t0KVjcLeh0ah-ILlNAYjIjf1BG7NYptj9RzwYXyTQXlDU/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWV61xtsVTlBpdti61OzMDkUFPuJkBCoSD6FTs-T_neye9GOTeloZveHVN3ZC6zFc9E698L2pUc_wmLFMKC68_Dg2hFSKNI1t0KVjcLeh0ah-ILlNAYjIjf1BG7NYptj9RzwYXyTQXlDU/s400/photo+1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Red buttoned skirt (cut to make it above the knee)// White short sleeved button-up // Sandal wedges // My great aunts costume pearl earrings & charm bracelet</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKTVOj4cVC-yEVrZAp9UNh5OD-cimbsUtmQzJmP1Pm2bCADwl8VIPmMHDjVCD2__PfHYpcTkt1LcdgU0NfuWn_PfCpgGkbIVLv6Y1dNBgZlr6wleFlIRwY-hWUa3JhNUeUmRTGpNwP6cQ/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKTVOj4cVC-yEVrZAp9UNh5OD-cimbsUtmQzJmP1Pm2bCADwl8VIPmMHDjVCD2__PfHYpcTkt1LcdgU0NfuWn_PfCpgGkbIVLv6Y1dNBgZlr6wleFlIRwY-hWUa3JhNUeUmRTGpNwP6cQ/s400/photo+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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$4.00+$2.75+$2.00+ inherited bracelet & earrings = $8.75</div>
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Who says chic has to be expensive?//</div>
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<br />laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-38913375754545581082013-03-12T10:18:00.001-07:002013-03-12T14:24:53.295-07:003.2 // I crave do-nothing days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb785201yGDGCsanC0HrD7Y-TALUT99U9gL1EgwHpjOLhJy3zqg9NQ1ZmDkF6p9hZmZHQ-ItCo4gj8G1FfgMv7_qtoXnEkz_As1hA80slltJc5XEbUS64_rGGZ4CLmgdGTivpvRChB5iY/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb785201yGDGCsanC0HrD7Y-TALUT99U9gL1EgwHpjOLhJy3zqg9NQ1ZmDkF6p9hZmZHQ-ItCo4gj8G1FfgMv7_qtoXnEkz_As1hA80slltJc5XEbUS64_rGGZ4CLmgdGTivpvRChB5iY/s400/photo.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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//Confession: I crave do-nothing days.<br />
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Is it just me or are weekends that don't require accomplishing a to-do list, just what the heart-doctor ordered? Having lived in the Virginia now for going on 5 months, you would think I would be well adjusted to a routine and have a social agenda in order. That however is not the case. These months have been a time of retreat. This has been a season of going on dates with my boyfriend... staying in comfy clothes all day without a lick of makeup... watching movies and endless episodes of friends... walking and talking with God as the sun descends behind the mountain...and enjoying the beauty of "snow light".<br />
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There are days this lackadaisical lifestyle makes me feel lazy or unproductive (as if working 40+ hours a week is unproductive). I may not be a full time grad student who is working two jobs anymore, but maybe that's what this season is all about. Taking a deep breath and enjoying the little things.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #741b47;">These are a few of my </span><span style="color: #741b47;">[do-nothing day] </span><span style="color: #741b47;">favorites</span></h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnqBAvqb1k79LQxkwCzTjdz0KaA7mLQtAx5HDv0dmiaDHe20xnhyphenhyphenNk70qgDLXlDvnTidrtfJeQvXJ56Z_AdbdSVWmUUxlYDjh6VNxvTaGbNHnx3ySwD2jXAc-dlOTN4jaarrzPbGxDANk/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnqBAvqb1k79LQxkwCzTjdz0KaA7mLQtAx5HDv0dmiaDHe20xnhyphenhyphenNk70qgDLXlDvnTidrtfJeQvXJ56Z_AdbdSVWmUUxlYDjh6VNxvTaGbNHnx3ySwD2jXAc-dlOTN4jaarrzPbGxDANk/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Watching crazy amazing sunsets over the mountains</div>
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Home cooked meals...by yours truly</div>
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Game nights </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjYqS-JBx7o9NZUxH_oXfFbgi5e6zaw5RsW7qZKwyslqWDh0fw-Q5wfVeOZl0EWWtoHZGR7dEx4pI5jimSib9EvbuuEfj62f1kEHNX-i1zNk-n3oGQLyuo0x__gt3VPN4JZuH0vyGGja0/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjYqS-JBx7o9NZUxH_oXfFbgi5e6zaw5RsW7qZKwyslqWDh0fw-Q5wfVeOZl0EWWtoHZGR7dEx4pI5jimSib9EvbuuEfj62f1kEHNX-i1zNk-n3oGQLyuo0x__gt3VPN4JZuH0vyGGja0/s320/photo+5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Care packages</div>
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(Especially ones that your best friend sends that include girl scout cookies)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2iFHJp5cBWL0uEwaFpgvjI1CPGAkXBPrmM0W8vHbAW5ThlTqZLZ3sfFWgSwGeDDGmkcFqqZP1ckOE93r2d51anjdXjqodgQOcNJ_0dRQW0IABaGzL5xdXRqmQRpYnQmS7wJw9fs7D0X0/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2iFHJp5cBWL0uEwaFpgvjI1CPGAkXBPrmM0W8vHbAW5ThlTqZLZ3sfFWgSwGeDDGmkcFqqZP1ckOE93r2d51anjdXjqodgQOcNJ_0dRQW0IABaGzL5xdXRqmQRpYnQmS7wJw9fs7D0X0/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Watching old movies snuggled up with my favorite pup. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmpsIQobuV02KztW9YFUPTlm0heacwcShM1sY5TSFKNR1cHEzeBPgC91IzBwmivWKXCHGrZYXNLqXmDBdF3KOFNgo1yEWjqPMrqdBOjHRGGTJVJlhE8e8k9OMt2Rvl5bVPNMa2b3xDTTc/s1600/photo+5+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmpsIQobuV02KztW9YFUPTlm0heacwcShM1sY5TSFKNR1cHEzeBPgC91IzBwmivWKXCHGrZYXNLqXmDBdF3KOFNgo1yEWjqPMrqdBOjHRGGTJVJlhE8e8k9OMt2Rvl5bVPNMa2b3xDTTc/s320/photo+5+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Slow mornings over coffee and breakfast with this guy.</div>
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Sometimes life slows down, but instead of trying to speed it back up, this time,</div>
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I'm going to roll with the flow//</div>
laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-19528615162216512692013-03-06T13:56:00.000-08:002013-03-07T06:13:48.797-08:003.1 //I don't like to wait<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wkYN5ndRBDg" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHj7jxgWaKw-4oemY4aiYBn0PnbxM5g1I-6fu4z9IVvQkPM-NmD4GtIM2CFOqEyvR9vMAd8JxEJ7YjDkKz_b3wwaiMaPG7EVgyc03p2Y9ouK4NKQEv3bhiHfznmkL80ftC-oZIK6B4EQ/s400/photo+(2).JPG" title="Wait on the Lord" width="400" /></a></div>
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//Confession: I don’t like to wait.<br />
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Waiting in lines. Waiting in traffic. Waiting for the elevator. Waiting at the doctors.… arms crossed, toe tapping. I am impatient and anxious. What is it about my heart that can’t sit still long enough to take a deep breath and chill? What a difference I could make in my attitude if I took those moments as a chance to reflect or pray or just be quiet. Instead I get frustrated, annoyed, and feel the rush to get to the next thing. In times where my life seems to be in limbo or when life decisions “need” to be made, waiting just seems impossible; decisions are rash. <br />
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It’s that way with waiting on God too, I am bad at waiting. His timing is always perfect. I can say that because so many times He has come through with a check to pay a bill, a phone call to answer my prayer, a job I needed so desperately, a breakup that turned out to be a blessing. He is the timing expert. We have understood time from the moment earth was created--the sun has risen and set without missing a beat and seasons have changed with consistency. <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ecclesiastes%203&version=NLT">King Solomon wrote</a> about it in Ecclesiastes, and the Byrds even made a song about it:<br />
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“To everything, turn, turn, turn </div>
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There is a season, turn, turn, turn </div>
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And a time for every purpose under heaven...”</div>
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Yet, in my discontentment, the clock never seems to tick when it’s supposed to. Waiting causes me to believe that progress has stopped. The reality however is that waiting is in fact active. I find my heart wrestling the most when I think about the future. I get caught up in the things I want to happen, or I perceive a problem; my heart starts to tap its toe. I want to make things happen, I want to fix it. In the Bible over and over there is direction to “<a href="http://www.openbible.info/topics/waiting_on_god">wait on the Lord</a>,” which when translated from the Hebrew and Greek means things like: to look patiently, expect eagerly, to rest, trust, or hope. <br />
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The ability to <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2062:5-8,%20psalm%20119:33-40&version=MSG">wait</a> on the Lord is rooted in the ability to be confident and focused ON who God is and IN what God is doing. It is assurance in God’s person: confidence in His knowledge, love, and timing. It means trusting in God’s purpose and the power of His hand in my life. Waiting means anticipation, confident hope that something will take place. It’s a belief in the goodness of God coming to fruition in my life. It’s a patient, hopeful, prayerful heart that finds purpose in a time of wait.<br />
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My “doing” doesn’t do any good //</div>
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laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-63895810274149889382013-02-28T13:22:00.002-08:002013-03-06T12:07:23.163-08:002.5 //I like when other people cook for me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigig9UNLTO7KqygH5trII0j7-AgrwduOk43ySzEYoyTtKCyPquGKFFkKyY1hXShIaMGFUglcMFpT4BX88kE6Kgi4r0MWP8z7EC130n9UFQGuVvIoFhk0BdGgT8mpCxzQA-JMneAGHD-4g/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigig9UNLTO7KqygH5trII0j7-AgrwduOk43ySzEYoyTtKCyPquGKFFkKyY1hXShIaMGFUglcMFpT4BX88kE6Kgi4r0MWP8z7EC130n9UFQGuVvIoFhk0BdGgT8mpCxzQA-JMneAGHD-4g/s400/photo+(1).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">//Confession: I like when other people cook for me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">"I'm in charge of dinner!" <a href="http://thevuvobandit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">My guy</a> sure knows how to make a girl swoon. And when it comes to food, well that can be difficult because I am gluten free and don't beef at all. Most of the time I cook for myself and don't often get to enjoy the pleasure of other people's home cooked meals. Recently though, Chase and I have been trying different foods from our typical chicken and veggies. Last weekend he decided to step out on a limb and picked a seafood casserole. The sound of it didn't make me too excited but as we cooked together, I couldn't wait to eat it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We adapted the recipe from <a href="http://www.recipe.com/seafood-rice-casserole/?socsrc=recpin091712seafoodricecasserole" target="_blank">this one</a>, subbing the mayo for plain non-fat greek yogurt and instead of tomato juice, used tomato sauce. It was quick, delicious, and left us with meals for the next day.</span><br />
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<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Easy Seafood Casserole // </span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">1½ cups sliced fresh mushrooms<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">½ tablespoon olive oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">1¼ cups cooked brown rice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">6 ounce
can sliced water chestnuts, drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">½ cup chopped celery<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">¼ cup chopped onion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">¼ cup chopped green pepper</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">½ cup non-fat plain greek yogurt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">½ cup tomato sauce<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">½ lb
package frozen peeled, cooked shrimp, thawed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">1- 6 or 8 ounce package flake-style imitation
crabmeat<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">1/8
teaspoon paprika<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";"> Salt and pepper to taste<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">¼ cup Monterey Jack cheese<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDg-JO3D-ug6jEptYf-O8_eSoPbTBqB_JXwkAnwQN6Ak9TgkAyBdNKWKD2luz3Z48Adh_WrLbv5YOE8KCXqBL848qmLg_O_aIpnYA5ij-5mba4aZVouY-BDymB7AABgvX8IZpnut8JsoI/s1600/ingredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDg-JO3D-ug6jEptYf-O8_eSoPbTBqB_JXwkAnwQN6Ak9TgkAyBdNKWKD2luz3Z48Adh_WrLbv5YOE8KCXqBL848qmLg_O_aIpnYA5ij-5mba4aZVouY-BDymB7AABgvX8IZpnut8JsoI/s400/ingredients.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">Cooking Directions</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">Preheat
oven to 350 degrees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">1. Drizzle
oil in large skillet cook mushrooms, green pepper, onion, water chestnuts, over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until
tender. In a very large bowl, stir together cooked mushrooms, cooked rice,
water chestnuts, celery, onion, and green pepper. Stir in yogurt, tomato juice,
salt, black pepper, and paprika; mix well. Stir in shrimp and imitation crab meat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">2. Spoon seafood mixture into a greased 8x8 glass pan. Sprinkle almonds and cheese over. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until bubbly.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUhQl3N9oWJ8aqSyh93Y18Db-YtS_lb4Hlvtpu9ue4aJ7A6MHXa5lL-E21rJbtGvxi82g1ekmFAkuFB1NK6yB9gHT7ClvIS1ij1qoyCa9nVcyZxoSHlbYT8ck_j9XbpIjiHgbEzEsbz4c/s1600/photo+1+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUhQl3N9oWJ8aqSyh93Y18Db-YtS_lb4Hlvtpu9ue4aJ7A6MHXa5lL-E21rJbtGvxi82g1ekmFAkuFB1NK6yB9gHT7ClvIS1ij1qoyCa9nVcyZxoSHlbYT8ck_j9XbpIjiHgbEzEsbz4c/s400/photo+1+%25281%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B67MfpsxGM36dkU2SDAxSThTU00/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Click here for a printable version</a> of the recipe</span>.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sometimes it's nice to just let someone else take the reins.//</span></div>
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laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-7688326750990172092013-02-25T14:03:00.000-08:002013-03-06T12:07:04.094-08:002.4 //I Overindulge<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp7JcwhHGnebJmgBZ6F-Rok8K9YD4eiMEXggMDolToIEkgCGecgIh-hINN1cdc1j7bhE0wHpNxXFnnZ0N295wq-SK24my4NerQc0G9MAuZ-G1KQ2lt1E0lH92rHAk43zbWIGuVkPR5ED0/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp7JcwhHGnebJmgBZ6F-Rok8K9YD4eiMEXggMDolToIEkgCGecgIh-hINN1cdc1j7bhE0wHpNxXFnnZ0N295wq-SK24my4NerQc0G9MAuZ-G1KQ2lt1E0lH92rHAk43zbWIGuVkPR5ED0/s400/photo.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">//Confession: I
overindulge.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I haven’t been MIA for the week without reason. In fact, I’ll
be surprised if anyone reads this for the mere fact that I am currently off the
social media radar. I can’t count how
many times I find myself sifting through the photos of a friend I haven’t seen
in years, or streaming through the arguments between commenting Facebook’rs . The YouTube
videos, weddings, babies, and links at your fingertips; changing and evolving
as every minute passes. It’s in my face whether I like it or not. And with a mouse click I am drawn in; I indulge.
My pleasure-seeking tendencies have led me to take a step back. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Besides being technically hypnotized my self-satisfaction
carries into so many areas… finances, food, and time. After a hard day at work, some tough news, and
a headache, I climbed in my car, took a deep breath and thought, <i>I need a glass of wine</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">What is it about life that causes me to turn to indulgences
that make me “feel better” rather than the One who actually makes things better? Why is it when life gives me a hard time I
don’t reach for a glass of God? My <a href="http://confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/01/11.html" target="_blank">focus goes awry</a> when difficulty shows up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I find myself using indulgence as a way to cope. To avoid
facing myself, responsibilities, or standing before Jesus. Indulgence keeps me
occupied long enough to stay away from my heart issues. I space out on the inter-web to keep space between me and God. I use wine to drown my realities and food as filler
for my emptiness; habits that only produce feelings of shame and inadequacy.</span><br />
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<h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am taking 40 days to bask in the glory of deprivation.</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The reason I have dedicated 40 days to face my issues of
indulgence isn’t a legalistic one. I’m not “trying” to be better or prove
myself worthy. It’s as simple as being faithful
in the little things. I let the little things slip through the sin cracks, you
know, because “they aren’t that bad”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yet, I ask God what He is doing or why He hasn’t done this
or given me that. Before Lent while praying, He answered: <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">lack of faithfulness in the little things, that’s
why.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY0mSSy6XbI8vcTMFCnD2gPETpEWPI8xuIcJNukbOolQYLUWX7zsW47A3C1YR_KChE3Y9BBMyUrkJ2sU4Q08uN8QEdBuO0Qzdh9WWSd1UYmtFC62zubwBPW1mcXz_5N3NVaIP9xZSAELM/s1600/verse.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY0mSSy6XbI8vcTMFCnD2gPETpEWPI8xuIcJNukbOolQYLUWX7zsW47A3C1YR_KChE3Y9BBMyUrkJ2sU4Q08uN8QEdBuO0Qzdh9WWSd1UYmtFC62zubwBPW1mcXz_5N3NVaIP9xZSAELM/s400/verse.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="woj"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">By
being unfaithful in even the small things I am keeping myself from all that God wants for me. Living for Jesus simply requires <a href="http://confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/02/21.html" target="_blank">dependence</a>.
I think about toddlers and their never ending dependency on adults to survive
and provide. That’s what walking with God is, trusting and living IN
Jesus. A child needs help to eat, sleep,
stay safe, and be comforted. That’s what we need too. </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="woj"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="woj"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2016:1-18&version=MSG" target="_blank">Jesus before talking faithfulness</a> says this, “I
want you to be smart in the same way—but for what is right—using every
adversity to stimulate you to creative survival, to concentrate your attention
on the bare essentials, so you’ll live, really live, and not complacently just
get by on good behavior.” I want to make
intentional effort to give up self-seeking indulgence and give into my need for
God.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="woj"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Deprived? Not quite. Gluttony was never pretty on me
anyway.//<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-51131272288086506292013-02-12T16:28:00.004-08:002013-03-06T12:06:37.043-08:002.3 //I do not like Valentine's Day [Part 2] <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGRvo3iioPyjn9SaEJ27xCKjmR3sKM5KBG8ifa0Mor_dxgYr2uxT3MMzu3H4uPKKKCuspRuj2l7PAT8DQMdHZl9Pu8z-NS5zQrfHOhv12neOezv9hAZmjy9PFW3WSeL3TJz8CFf7vp9wI/s1600/IMG_8261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGRvo3iioPyjn9SaEJ27xCKjmR3sKM5KBG8ifa0Mor_dxgYr2uxT3MMzu3H4uPKKKCuspRuj2l7PAT8DQMdHZl9Pu8z-NS5zQrfHOhv12neOezv9hAZmjy9PFW3WSeL3TJz8CFf7vp9wI/s400/IMG_8261.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">//Confession: I do not like Valentine's Day [part 2] </span><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Catch up<a href="http://confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/02/22.html"> here</a> if you need to.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So about a year ago I got a text from <a href="http://thevuvobandit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">this guy</a>, who I would call a good friend, that indicated he would like to "DTR", as my roommate put it. (For those like me who have no idea what this means, it's "define the relationship.") Apparently our friendly conversations had increased so much so that we were teetering between friends and well, more than that. I, however, was a bit oblivious to that fact. Fearful I would lose a good friend I hesitated, but only long enough to realize this guy was perfect and I'd be an idiot not to see what could be. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After all these days gone by, it's clear to me that I had nothing to do with this arrangement; you don't find a guy like Chase by chance. God went to great lengths to arrange for Chase and I to be where we are today. Hours of prayer, skype, phone calls, flights, and miles have gone into the love that I get the privilege of enjoying. That's the real gift for me; this isn't something out of a movie or fairytale. It's work... and somehow easy at the same time. But more than any of that I have found a man who loves Jesus more than he loves me. Who teaches me what it means to love like Christ, in the way he treats me. Who prays for me instead of trying to fix me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I could never thank Chase enough for all the ways he loves me. Though, I have made my attempts.</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"> </span><br />
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<h4>
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Here are [some of] of the best I've ever given:</span></h4>
I am not an artist. I do not claim to be, but for some reason I had an urge to make a flip book that illustrated that whole 'girl meets boy' thing... and it needed to include an air balloon. It was a valiant effort at being cute, if anything.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpksfeqV6QuXFj8gt2X-OuK-hhpvdVYoB8nPSxk_KpZR0IZ2Mts1LHaTsN283N7l34O5z0fU4TGUZ8ksScHBEwyni_RzUXfqftRjhJbmnhaIltBiTauMPY3ZRis6i0XVPSZQteANpHqjg/s1600/flip2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpksfeqV6QuXFj8gt2X-OuK-hhpvdVYoB8nPSxk_KpZR0IZ2Mts1LHaTsN283N7l34O5z0fU4TGUZ8ksScHBEwyni_RzUXfqftRjhJbmnhaIltBiTauMPY3ZRis6i0XVPSZQteANpHqjg/s320/flip2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwgE8QJw5guR9srRqMpu06qRtFGfOMJB1Vgv58ih-IJ51TIPrslDXzI4-eRELC1AoA3or_vwD2UK4Rn52wSeW2yLNtIdqu49__7hY2_bmZ3E8OIzEjx5RQFzaP_SnWXN9nCv9s_kDrzW4/s1600/flip1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwgE8QJw5guR9srRqMpu06qRtFGfOMJB1Vgv58ih-IJ51TIPrslDXzI4-eRELC1AoA3or_vwD2UK4Rn52wSeW2yLNtIdqu49__7hY2_bmZ3E8OIzEjx5RQFzaP_SnWXN9nCv9s_kDrzW4/s320/flip1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Chase and I connected at a debrief after extended stints overseas (his in India, mine in Poland). One of my fondest memories is sitting around playing games like 'zip/bong' and a card game called nertz with Chase and mission friends. One year later to the day, Chase was planned to arrive for his second trip to Florida. I wanted to give him something that captured inside jokes, memories, and favorite things. So I took a deck of cards and printed my favorite 'Chase things' on them... 52 weeks after we partnered up to play nertz together. It was so fun to make. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWC7-_qwmtOn_BNKabFLr76nYnBGt52HlrqPJi_jIPUCePmT3gzIlQYM3e03rhbXOzl2T_i9KF6GU5ObEzkWSxHy9V1lMdzRzpTDP2m1Yz2Rsdxxvs0n1fMVUgTMriCBSHaJHGwK3CRn0/s1600/gifts1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWC7-_qwmtOn_BNKabFLr76nYnBGt52HlrqPJi_jIPUCePmT3gzIlQYM3e03rhbXOzl2T_i9KF6GU5ObEzkWSxHy9V1lMdzRzpTDP2m1Yz2Rsdxxvs0n1fMVUgTMriCBSHaJHGwK3CRn0/s320/gifts1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinP9DNFZQMqHAQT2h2vVneXqslSZyF1Vg_WMGftJX5vMrAIAqswj1tBg4dMa7-cK0LAsg0sU2yffhZKatcc6TX77_812UcXHSAVJCOgp_rSkhOK2sIdiOkxLb_RJCvxJSeBm5ro4m8yDA/s1600/gift2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinP9DNFZQMqHAQT2h2vVneXqslSZyF1Vg_WMGftJX5vMrAIAqswj1tBg4dMa7-cK0LAsg0sU2yffhZKatcc6TX77_812UcXHSAVJCOgp_rSkhOK2sIdiOkxLb_RJCvxJSeBm5ro4m8yDA/s320/gift2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8_OPpjpqy_EXzX7gJNPTWzPzasXaOC2bJGwRXubzRHcHeymZWCdSfXWlcYf8qx8dD4BeJBQgSC33Y18niSb-WvE1gtZUvOzDbkXVyr53aT2rKWuRFQdxu7b1d-Ae4Gm7RAg-G2I5_qAg/s1600/gift1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8_OPpjpqy_EXzX7gJNPTWzPzasXaOC2bJGwRXubzRHcHeymZWCdSfXWlcYf8qx8dD4BeJBQgSC33Y18niSb-WvE1gtZUvOzDbkXVyr53aT2rKWuRFQdxu7b1d-Ae4Gm7RAg-G2I5_qAg/s320/gift1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you know anything about <a href="http://thevuvobandit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Chase</a>, it's that the boy has talents that go beyond architecture. While in Texas over the summer, he spent some time teaching me the in's and out's of Adobe illustrator. So for his birthday I did my best to utilize his teaching by creating a little piece of artwork. Made of memories, lyrics, inside jokes, and prayers, words come together to illustrate Texas, Florida, and Virginia. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4r49kI1t1lk0UVHGFgbU4qprZadJpML18TvyfxSBpWFFO-QT257qAXsPpxhdbtbpcVTi2G-l68kH-Iu3yha8Hq5PGLASdymU0RnMiZ4ROdswJcpXGpVfhW1tpVy77Qku8NncP5PIEGSg/s1600/gift4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4r49kI1t1lk0UVHGFgbU4qprZadJpML18TvyfxSBpWFFO-QT257qAXsPpxhdbtbpcVTi2G-l68kH-Iu3yha8Hq5PGLASdymU0RnMiZ4ROdswJcpXGpVfhW1tpVy77Qku8NncP5PIEGSg/s400/gift4.JPG" width="317" /></a></div>
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This bracelet with a message in braille is a bit difficult to explain without knowing us, but i'll just say it's a pretty neat little gift.<br />
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Chase & I love questions. We have spent hours asking one another random questions. This is a custom Jenga I created with questions and challenges on each piece.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm thankful for the gift that I didn't see coming.// </span></div>
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<br />laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-8643596494952844232013-02-08T17:53:00.000-08:002013-03-06T12:06:16.093-08:002.2 //I do not like Valentine's Day [Part 1]<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">//Confession: I do not like Valentine's Day [Part 1].</span><br />
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I'm not saying I'm so anti-valentines I show up in black and refuse to smile. I'm not that dramatic about it, it's just not my favorite. Although I will admit that the candy is always awesome on Valentine's Day--who doesn't love heart shaped candy with a sassy message on it? </div>
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This post however isn't so much about Valentine's day as it is love and the way we express it to each other. The whole thing about Valentine's day is flowers and chocolate and telling people that you love them. Something I can appreciate on a day to day basis, not so much on the once a year level. Gift giving is an art. And it is not about how expensive it is. Gifts to me are about thoughtfulness, inside jokes-- well planned and time invested kind of stuff. </div>
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Not to brag or anything but the following are NOT valentine's gifts... most of these gifts were "just because". That's the kind of love I appreciate-- the kind that loves me just because, I'm me. </div>
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I present to you [some] of the best gifts I have ever received:</span></h3>
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This booklet is filled with short rhyming email posts that went back and forth for about a month between the two of us. He gave it to me when we finally saw each other for the first time in almost a year. </div>
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I was speechless. It was adorable. Heart won over. </div>
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About 4 months of skyping was the beginnings of Chase and my relationship. Though long distance wasn't ideal, this helped. We spent hours "hanging out" over skype. Little did I know while I was being my ridiculous self, Chase was capturing me in photographs. When I arrived in Texas to meet his family and see his home town, I was gifted with Facelog. Hilarious and perfect. </div>
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The thing about distance for us was it became more difficult as time went on. Especially as I was in a major transitional period of my life. Knowing this, Chase created something called 'daily daisies' [daisies are my favorite flower]. These are cards, in individual envelopes, have thoughts about me, encouraging words, and sweet memories from the past 6 months of dating. On a hard or sad day I was to open and be encouraged. Handwritten, water-colored with white and yellow daisies, complete with twine to hang them on. </div>
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Me and my dog carved out of a book :] </div>
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All the instagram photos I have ever done of us, printed with the place they were taken on the bottom.</div>
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Daisy Dates. It's too hard to explain and too cute to not post. Thrift find, made into a neat little contraption that helps you pick the kind of date you should go on.</div>
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A vintage 1924 art deco spoon ring. If you know me then you know this is me, to a T. </div>
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I am so thankful for a love that shows all year long.//</div>
laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795814868977207926.post-17020971932757482952013-02-04T15:54:00.002-08:002013-03-06T12:05:49.406-08:002.1 //I have wandering eye syndrome<br />
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<span style="color: #222222; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">//Confession: I have wandering eye syndrome.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Don’t get me wrong, my
eyes are firmly planted on my sweet boyfriend. He’s amazing. It’s not that kind
of condition. This is a condition that goes deeper than that. On Sunday I listened
to Pastor Noble shed light on the Israelites cyclical sin patterns, that often
began with an eye that desired more. Whether it was building false gods,
jumping to conclusions, wishing to be like the other tribes and towns, or
complaining, it shouldn’t shock anyone they <a href="http://confessionsofmywanderingheart.blogspot.com/2013/01/11.html" target="_blank">wandered</a> in the desert for 40
years.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 150%;">Here’s what dawned on
me; I am an Isrealite. I am one of those
wandering souls in the desert constantly coveting and wishing I could just get
to the mirage of the “good” life ahead. That’s the thing about the
wandering eyes… they lead to wandering hearts; they cultivate idolatry. Don’t
think of it like the gold statue kind of stuff, I’m talking</span><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 150%;"> </span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 150%;">adoration.</span><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 150%;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 150%;">Matt Chandler says,
“Whatever is uppermost in your affections is your god and will shape every
other aspect of your life”. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">Wandering eye syndrome
for me exists in so many areas: career, possessions, wishing I was elsewhere,
or that I could be like so-and-so. Why do they get that and I don’t. I,
much like the </span><span style="line-height: 19px;">Israelites,</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"> find myself in cyclical patterns of desire that lead to deserts. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'BEAN POLE XL'; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">“The comparison game will erode your soul. If
you cannot find complete contentment in the Lord and reject that provision, you
may be in danger of stepping in front of God who is calling you to follow.”</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 150%;">Pastor Noble’s words
echo in my mind.</span><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 150%;"> </span><i><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 150%;">Erode your soul.</span></i><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 150%;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 150%;">Yikes. And yet it’s so
true. I try to fix problems and control
scenarios, stepping out of God’s provision and into hardship. I push things to
happen before God’s time and they fall apart. I put my health, wealth, and happiness first and come up short.
God wants to be the sole recipient of my affections, the director of my steps.
He wants lead me into the fulfillment of my destiny. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The
only cure? Stop wasting time chasing mirages and follow Him into the promise land//</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924526895395916555noreply@blogger.com4