home inside a home

We are now living with Kevin's parents in Oklahoma.  Living with "the in-laws" for most is a scary thing, but our week here in mid-May really assured me that this would be a good thing.

For those of you who are familiar with the Bible, you might remember that Israel (beginning with Abraham) was blessed to be a blessing.  This is true for us too, we are blessed so that we will be a blessing to those around us.  

So as we make our home inside of a home that already exists, that is alive and is actively being a blessing to people already; I hope our family will be a blessing to Kevin's parents and to those that come in and out of this place.  Not because we are amazing, but because of God's grace. 

shout out to the Crew

Last night our Bible study group met.  We are more than a Bible study group though, we are more like family.  Our days here in Colorado are getting shorter and shorter, so time with them is precious.  Unintentionally, they each encouraged and affirmed us more than we could have ever asked.  Emily, Gary, Hailey, Joanna, Kristi, Levi, and Tony, we love you and appreciate you more than you will ever know. 

can i get a witness

Kevin relayed an illustration he heard in a sermon to me the other day: A kindergarten class was celebrating Sally's birthday, the chairs were circled around a table, each chair with a balloon and party favors attached. Joey wasn't thrilled to be celebrating and would give out a little "umph" every now and then. He became louder and louder until the teacher addressed him simply, "Joey, it's not your party."

Simple story with a profound lesson. Much of our frustration and anger in relationships comes from our feeling of entitlement or getting attention (and even celebration) for something we have acheived. So the lesson? It's not our party. The entitlement, attention, and celebration can and should always be given to Jesus.

That being said, I have been around friends and family for two and a half weeks. It has made me aware that while it's not our party, it doesn't mean we don't need recognition. We need those around us to testify to the goodness of God in our lives; whether that is pointing out blessings we take for granted or ways that we have matured. Both are credited to Jesus, yet it encourages us to hear it. Strange isn't it?

my first Christmas present (this year)

There is a group of friends that has grown into a beautiful community. I lovingly call them "the Crew." Because of holiday travels and exciting adventures taking place in the coming weeks, the only time we could have a Christmas party was tonight, December 1st.

We drew names for gift giving, which can make someone (me, maybe) a little nervous. It's something like this that tells you if people really listen when you're talking or if they're the least bit observant of your interests.
This is what I received. Yes, I realize that this is a picture of a picture, so my amateur Nikon isn't going to capture the glory of this photograph (and I do mean glory, look at the way the sun is shining through the trees), but I had to try.