I'm definitely going through a dry season with my blogging. I did just want to chime in quickly and let you know about my other birthday present.....:)
I finally got my nose pierced! I've been wanting to do it for years, but when Jenny came back from her mission trip with a cute little stud in her nose it pushed me over the edge. So for my 32nd birthday Jenny and I went into Fairfax to get my nose pierced.
It really hurt. I think I'm finally coming to terms with the fact that I have a low threshold for pain.... Anyway, I'm so glad I did it. I love it!
(picture to follow shortly)
side note: Dad is visiting us this week. Maybe that's one of the reasons for the dry spell. Things are going well enough, but it's a constant reminder of the brokenness in our family. Gavin, the girls, and I are going to be staying at his new house on the way down to Fla., and on the way back from Fla., in a few weeks. I'm not looking forward to seeing how his new life with ...*@#!$^)&....(I mean) Dorothy looks, but feel it is another step toward walking this road of forgiveness...
prayers for wisdom and humility are appreciated.
much love,
em
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Saturday, July 19, 2008
A Lovely Birthday
I turned 32 this week....and I'm cool with that.:) Gavin always picks on me (and the other Brown girls) because I (we) have this very uncanny and subconscious way of stretching out my (our) birthday celebration(s). It looks like this year will be no different..... Thursday night Gavin took me to the Melting Pot for dinner...my favorite...and then to see the Indigo Girls in concert at Wolf Trap, which is an outdoor venue. We had such a great time.
I LOVE the Indigo Girls. Their concerts are always so much fun and laid back. Brandi Carlisle opened for them - she was great. Wolf Trap is such a fun venue. It is a partially outdoor, partially indoor arena. It feels very intimate. Dinner was yummy and being with Gavin, enjoying some of our favorite music, was a perfect way to spend the evening.
Friday, my actual birthday, we had a big camp out in the backyard. We had seven tents set up!!!! It wasn't supposed to be for my birthday - just happened to fall on that evening - but I may make it an annual event!! The house was full and buzzing with so many friends, great conversation, lots of laughs, children running around overjoyed to be staying up late and playing with old and new friends.....I LOVED every second of it.
Dad is coming into town on Tuesday for a visit and the celebration will continue.....see, I clearly didn't plan it that way....uncanny...;)!
I'm posting some recent pics, but haven't uploaded any from the camp-out yet. Thanks for all the sweet cards and birthday wishes!! I love you, my dear friends and family. My life is better because you are apart of it.
all my love and appreciation,
em
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
National Security
Obama gave a speech yesterday about his strategy for National security. It was inspiring. The video and transcript of the speech are included in the link above. Because it was about 30min. long, I've decided to post a commercial regarding a small aspect of his National security vision instead.
This is one of the biggest differentiators between Obama and McCain. It's so important that we be educated on what exactly they each are proposing.
This is one of the biggest differentiators between Obama and McCain. It's so important that we be educated on what exactly they each are proposing.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
We've accepted an offer!!
Praise the Lord! While we were in Cinci over the weekend we heard from our Realtor that an offer had come in for our Cambridge home. We did some expected negotiating and settled on a fair price. If all goes well the closing will be August 15th!
We are so thrilled and completely thankful for this new answer to prayer.
It comes at an interesting time: I was just telling friends this weekend that I had finally come to realize that there was no eternal value or loss in a foreclosure or bad credit...I finally was alright with whatever happened. "Who cares if the house forecloses!!!" Certainly these are things we should avoid if possible. But I had felt for the past three years that God wasn't providing for us because the house wouldn't sell or we didn't have the money to cover both rent and mortgage, etc. My mind, and my faith, was stuck within the "rules" and thinking of this world.
I had finally come to the realization that God does not have to work within these "rules". Credit and foreclosures mean NOTHING to Him. He does what He wants, when He wants, whether it works within our timing or not. This housing situation has truly been out of our hands. We have had to simply trust. We've done everything we could to make the house sell and yet, it was in His timing all along.
The Lord has allowed us to be apart of many ministries through our home. He used our home for a group to open a New England House of Prayer...how cool is that?! He used our home to provide housing to several couples in ministry and most recently a couple awaiting return to the mission field. God is so good!! I'm so happy to give Him all the praise and honor and glory for the sell of our home! Please be in prayer during this final process - that it will go smoothly.
We are thrilled that we will NOT be loosing the Cambridge house to foreclosure! Praise the Lord!!
We are so thrilled and completely thankful for this new answer to prayer.
It comes at an interesting time: I was just telling friends this weekend that I had finally come to realize that there was no eternal value or loss in a foreclosure or bad credit...I finally was alright with whatever happened. "Who cares if the house forecloses!!!" Certainly these are things we should avoid if possible. But I had felt for the past three years that God wasn't providing for us because the house wouldn't sell or we didn't have the money to cover both rent and mortgage, etc. My mind, and my faith, was stuck within the "rules" and thinking of this world.
I had finally come to the realization that God does not have to work within these "rules". Credit and foreclosures mean NOTHING to Him. He does what He wants, when He wants, whether it works within our timing or not. This housing situation has truly been out of our hands. We have had to simply trust. We've done everything we could to make the house sell and yet, it was in His timing all along.
The Lord has allowed us to be apart of many ministries through our home. He used our home for a group to open a New England House of Prayer...how cool is that?! He used our home to provide housing to several couples in ministry and most recently a couple awaiting return to the mission field. God is so good!! I'm so happy to give Him all the praise and honor and glory for the sell of our home! Please be in prayer during this final process - that it will go smoothly.
We are thrilled that we will NOT be loosing the Cambridge house to foreclosure! Praise the Lord!!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
DO justly, LOVE mercy
I'm on a journey of forgiveness that began a few months ago when the Lord revealed to me that I needed to forgive the woman my dad has had an ongoing affair with for the past 10 years. I really didn't think I had a "forgiveness" problem!! I usually brush offenses off pretty quickly, and am quick to forgive when asked. The one thing that I knew I had a hard time forgiving was disloyalty. Being loyal is a very high characteristic on my list. But the Lord has revealed another layer: forgiving those that hurt the ones I love.
I've realized over the past few weeks that I am a LOVER of justice. I have always been a lover of justice, but never put words to that aspect of my character. I wear a big "J" on my chest for JUSTICE (as my friend, Meredith says). And I've always worn it proudly...until now. I'm very open about how much of a protector I am - whether it's friends, family, friend's children, my own children - I am like a mother bear if those I love are hurt. I'm fierce and ruthless.
We returned to Cinci for a wedding this past weekend (which was so precious, by the way), and I was forced to deal with some unfinished business. Usually when I am hurt by someone I quickly forgive and am still filled with love when I see them. But this time I did not have that reaction.
My reaction to seeing them really surprised me. As I rode in the car to the reception praying over my unforgiving heart it dawned on me! It wasn't an offense against me that I was so upset about....it was against Gavin...Gavin! I was still in protector mode.
Gavin had already forgiven what had happened. He had actively pursued reconciliation. So why was I still having such a hard time forgiving? I know forgiveness is about setting me free, not letting them off the hook. I know to forgive whether or not I am asked! I thought I had forgiven them. And yet...."repulsed" is clearly not a sign of a heart that has forgiven....
As I prayed over my unforgiving heart the Lord put Micah 6:8 on my lips. "What does the Lord REQUIRE of you? To DO justly, LOVE mercy, and walk humbly with your Lord". Whoa! I clearly saw that I had been a LOVER of justice, not mercy. I had loved justice at the sacrifice of mercy. I needed the Lord to have mercy on me and change my heart.
That's the new journey in forgiveness that I'm beginning: to be one that DOES justly, but LOVES mercy, and will walk humbly with my Lord. Your prayers are appreciated!
I've realized over the past few weeks that I am a LOVER of justice. I have always been a lover of justice, but never put words to that aspect of my character. I wear a big "J" on my chest for JUSTICE (as my friend, Meredith says). And I've always worn it proudly...until now. I'm very open about how much of a protector I am - whether it's friends, family, friend's children, my own children - I am like a mother bear if those I love are hurt. I'm fierce and ruthless.
We returned to Cinci for a wedding this past weekend (which was so precious, by the way), and I was forced to deal with some unfinished business. Usually when I am hurt by someone I quickly forgive and am still filled with love when I see them. But this time I did not have that reaction.
My reaction to seeing them really surprised me. As I rode in the car to the reception praying over my unforgiving heart it dawned on me! It wasn't an offense against me that I was so upset about....it was against Gavin...Gavin! I was still in protector mode.
Gavin had already forgiven what had happened. He had actively pursued reconciliation. So why was I still having such a hard time forgiving? I know forgiveness is about setting me free, not letting them off the hook. I know to forgive whether or not I am asked! I thought I had forgiven them. And yet...."repulsed" is clearly not a sign of a heart that has forgiven....
As I prayed over my unforgiving heart the Lord put Micah 6:8 on my lips. "What does the Lord REQUIRE of you? To DO justly, LOVE mercy, and walk humbly with your Lord". Whoa! I clearly saw that I had been a LOVER of justice, not mercy. I had loved justice at the sacrifice of mercy. I needed the Lord to have mercy on me and change my heart.
That's the new journey in forgiveness that I'm beginning: to be one that DOES justly, but LOVES mercy, and will walk humbly with my Lord. Your prayers are appreciated!
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Excerpts from Tea Time
I've talked before about our tea time on Sunday afternoons. Today we had some quiche Florentine, spa tea (raspberry zinger tea and apple cider) and sat outside together. We have all joined the tea times now; Nick, Jenny, myself, Gavin and all of the girls (and Marneaux while she's here visiting). After each person finishes their reading we all clap in approval. It's a very enjoyable way to spend an hour on Sunday afternoon.
We each read several excerpts, but I've chosen my favorites for this entry. Here are a few quotes from some of the readings today.
Gavin: "...Earth's crammed with heaven, And every common bush afire with God:
But only he who sees, takes off his shoes..." -Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Rae: "...God speaks in a whip-poor-will's song. 'I set the North star in the heavens and I mean for you to be free.' Harriet sees the stars twinkling. 'My mind is made up. Tomorrow, I flee....' -Carole Boston Weatherford, "Moses, When Harriet Tubman led Her People to Freedom"
Emily: "Let's have one day for girls and boyses when you can make the grandest noises. Screech, scream, holler, an yell - Buzz a buzzer, clang a bell...One day a year do all of these, The rest of the days - be quiet please." -Shell Silverstien, "Noise Day"
Jenny: "What is, therefore, our task today? ...we lack a holy rage - the recklessness which comes from the knowledge of God and humanity. The ability to rage when justice lies prostrate on the streets...to rage against the ravaging of God's earth, and the destruction of God's world. To rage when little children must die of hunger when the tables of the rich are sagging with food...to rage against complacency...and remember the signs of the Christian church have been the Lion, the Lamb, the Dove and the Fish...but never the chameleon. -Kaj Munk, Danish Pastor just before his death in 1944 by Gestapo.
Nick had a great excerpt from Donald Miller (but I don't have the book at my disposal right now), about an interview Miller saw. Larry King was interviewing Billy Graham just after the Columbine shootings. When asked what was coming of our world, Miller assumed he would reference the recent studies on how video games and violence on TV were desensitizing children to the sanctity of life and humankind. Instead Rev. Graham began to speak, very eloquently, about how a long time ago there was a woman and a man in a garden, and they ate from a tree...."and I knew in my heart he was right" -Donald Miller, "In Search of God Knows What"
We ended the tea with one last reading from Raegan: "I wish...I wish I had feathers. I wish I had wings. I wish I was covered with prickly things....What? You say I'm the only kid you see, who acts quite like, talks quite like, is quite like me? You mean I don't need a horn, stripes or tail? NO googlie eyes or a spout like a whale? I guess you are right! I just have to be- TO BE - the one, the only, MAGNIFICENT ME! -Dan Haseltine, "The One, The Only Magnificent Me!"
I hope you are enjoying your family today!
much love to you all, dear friends.
We each read several excerpts, but I've chosen my favorites for this entry. Here are a few quotes from some of the readings today.
Gavin: "...Earth's crammed with heaven, And every common bush afire with God:
But only he who sees, takes off his shoes..." -Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Rae: "...God speaks in a whip-poor-will's song. 'I set the North star in the heavens and I mean for you to be free.' Harriet sees the stars twinkling. 'My mind is made up. Tomorrow, I flee....' -Carole Boston Weatherford, "Moses, When Harriet Tubman led Her People to Freedom"
Emily: "Let's have one day for girls and boyses when you can make the grandest noises. Screech, scream, holler, an yell - Buzz a buzzer, clang a bell...One day a year do all of these, The rest of the days - be quiet please." -Shell Silverstien, "Noise Day"
Jenny: "What is, therefore, our task today? ...we lack a holy rage - the recklessness which comes from the knowledge of God and humanity. The ability to rage when justice lies prostrate on the streets...to rage against the ravaging of God's earth, and the destruction of God's world. To rage when little children must die of hunger when the tables of the rich are sagging with food...to rage against complacency...and remember the signs of the Christian church have been the Lion, the Lamb, the Dove and the Fish...but never the chameleon. -Kaj Munk, Danish Pastor just before his death in 1944 by Gestapo.
Nick had a great excerpt from Donald Miller (but I don't have the book at my disposal right now), about an interview Miller saw. Larry King was interviewing Billy Graham just after the Columbine shootings. When asked what was coming of our world, Miller assumed he would reference the recent studies on how video games and violence on TV were desensitizing children to the sanctity of life and humankind. Instead Rev. Graham began to speak, very eloquently, about how a long time ago there was a woman and a man in a garden, and they ate from a tree...."and I knew in my heart he was right" -Donald Miller, "In Search of God Knows What"
We ended the tea with one last reading from Raegan: "I wish...I wish I had feathers. I wish I had wings. I wish I was covered with prickly things....What? You say I'm the only kid you see, who acts quite like, talks quite like, is quite like me? You mean I don't need a horn, stripes or tail? NO googlie eyes or a spout like a whale? I guess you are right! I just have to be- TO BE - the one, the only, MAGNIFICENT ME! -Dan Haseltine, "The One, The Only Magnificent Me!"
I hope you are enjoying your family today!
much love to you all, dear friends.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
From the Inside Out
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades. Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame. And the cry of my heart is to bring You praise, from the inside out, Lord my soul cries out.
My heart and my soul, I give you control. Consume me from the inside out, Lord.
--------------------------
The way I have always shown my thankfulness to the Lord and given Him praise, is through music. This song from Hillsong United, along with some other Jason Upton songs, speak my heart. I understand why Gavin loves the prayers of the saints. They are prayers of his heart. Songs like this are the same for me.
Augustine said, when you sing, you pray twice. I love that!
("The Shack" has given me such a sweet perspective and love for the Trinity. Sarayu; the wind; light; equally God; Holy Spirit - what a precious friend. Jesus; fully man; fully God; funny; lovely - what a precious Savior. Papa; protector; You love me; humble; gentle; mighty - what an amazing God!)
My heart and my soul, I give you control. Consume me from the inside out, Lord.
--------------------------
The way I have always shown my thankfulness to the Lord and given Him praise, is through music. This song from Hillsong United, along with some other Jason Upton songs, speak my heart. I understand why Gavin loves the prayers of the saints. They are prayers of his heart. Songs like this are the same for me.
Augustine said, when you sing, you pray twice. I love that!
("The Shack" has given me such a sweet perspective and love for the Trinity. Sarayu; the wind; light; equally God; Holy Spirit - what a precious friend. Jesus; fully man; fully God; funny; lovely - what a precious Savior. Papa; protector; You love me; humble; gentle; mighty - what an amazing God!)
Friday, June 20, 2008
God is Good!
Praise the Lord!! God is so good!!
All glory and praise belongs to the Lord! He has allowed us to find favor in the eyes of those "in control" of this situation. We have been assured that all has been resolved positively [due to the sensitivity of this matter I can't talk about any details].
This means that we will most likely be able to keep our Cambridge home! We are lowering the price again in hopes that it will sell soon.
These are the times when I feel my praise is so inadequate. "Praise the Lord" just doesn't seem to cut it... Do you ever feel like that? I would love a more tangible/passionate way to express my thankful heart and praise. What do you do to express your thankfulness to God?
To all my prayer warriors...you bless me more than you will ever know. Thank you for your prayers and thoughts and well wishes. My heart truly is overflowing!
All glory and praise belongs to the Lord! He has allowed us to find favor in the eyes of those "in control" of this situation. We have been assured that all has been resolved positively [due to the sensitivity of this matter I can't talk about any details].
This means that we will most likely be able to keep our Cambridge home! We are lowering the price again in hopes that it will sell soon.
These are the times when I feel my praise is so inadequate. "Praise the Lord" just doesn't seem to cut it... Do you ever feel like that? I would love a more tangible/passionate way to express my thankful heart and praise. What do you do to express your thankfulness to God?
To all my prayer warriors...you bless me more than you will ever know. Thank you for your prayers and thoughts and well wishes. My heart truly is overflowing!
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Yes, We Can!
I realize this is belated, but it goes without saying that we are thrilled to have Barack Obama as the Democratic nominee!
Yes, we can. Yes, we can. Yes, we can. ...to God be the glory!!
Monday, June 16, 2008
My Cup Runneth Over
Sorry for the King James wording.....it just seems appropriate for my current state. I've just been reading my friend's blogs and am so encouraged. Whether it's celebrating healthy and happy marriages, sharing God's blessing over different ministries, sharing menus for the week, or sharing time with children...I'm reminded of how blessed we are, and how blessed I am for these friendships.
Gavin and I had a challenging week this past week. [because of the sensitivity of the matter I can't talk about the details.] We took a huge hit. I've talked before about needing our home in Cambridge to sell because we really can't afford to keep it. We were hoping for the bonus to get us current on our mortgage, among other things.
Because I am a lover of justice, this is hard to swallow. We have a great Realtor in Cambridge and we're getting a lot of traffic, but no offer yet. We are having to come to grips with the fact that we may loose that home to foreclosure.
In light of all that, I can honestly say that Gavin and I are completely at peace. Not only are we still joyful, but we're actually happy. Don't get me wrong...we're NOT happy about the possibility of losing our home. We are happy to be right in the palm of our Lord's hand. We truly believe that He is good and has good things for us. He has provided for us over and over and over again. He is faithful. So what if we loose our home in Cambridge?! For the first time in five years, I can actually say that without cringing. I know the Lord has plans to prosper us and not to harm us - He has lovingly and graciously proven Himself, though He didn't have to.
Confession: The Lord has brought me a LONG way as I re-read what I just wrote. The old Emily (not so long ago) would have been angry about this injustice, not just at Imperial but also at God for allowing these injustices. Though it is shameful to admit, I confess that for those who may also struggle with feeling anger toward God over injustice.
Though the Lord has used many things to gently change my heart, (including a sermon from Pastor Dave, Cambridge Vineyard, New Years sermon 2004 - that totally rocked my world - challenging us to truly "give thanks in EVERY circumstance") the most recent reinforcement has been from "The Shack":
God speaking:
"The real underlying flaw in your life, [Emily], is that you don't think that I am good. If you knew I was good and that everything - the end, the means and all the processes of individual lives - is all covered by my goodness, then while you might not always understand what I am doing, you would trust me. But you don't."
Lord, I know that you are good! I trust you. You are worthy of all praise, glory and honor, and you are certainly worthy of my trust - especially when I don't understand your ways. Have mercy on me. Thank you for your love, grace and peace that passes all understanding. Thank you for this season of special dependence on you! Please sell our home in Cambridge.
My cup overflows! Blessed be your name, O Lord!
Gavin and I had a challenging week this past week. [because of the sensitivity of the matter I can't talk about the details.] We took a huge hit. I've talked before about needing our home in Cambridge to sell because we really can't afford to keep it. We were hoping for the bonus to get us current on our mortgage, among other things.
Because I am a lover of justice, this is hard to swallow. We have a great Realtor in Cambridge and we're getting a lot of traffic, but no offer yet. We are having to come to grips with the fact that we may loose that home to foreclosure.
In light of all that, I can honestly say that Gavin and I are completely at peace. Not only are we still joyful, but we're actually happy. Don't get me wrong...we're NOT happy about the possibility of losing our home. We are happy to be right in the palm of our Lord's hand. We truly believe that He is good and has good things for us. He has provided for us over and over and over again. He is faithful. So what if we loose our home in Cambridge?! For the first time in five years, I can actually say that without cringing. I know the Lord has plans to prosper us and not to harm us - He has lovingly and graciously proven Himself, though He didn't have to.
Confession: The Lord has brought me a LONG way as I re-read what I just wrote. The old Emily (not so long ago) would have been angry about this injustice, not just at Imperial but also at God for allowing these injustices. Though it is shameful to admit, I confess that for those who may also struggle with feeling anger toward God over injustice.
Though the Lord has used many things to gently change my heart, (including a sermon from Pastor Dave, Cambridge Vineyard, New Years sermon 2004 - that totally rocked my world - challenging us to truly "give thanks in EVERY circumstance") the most recent reinforcement has been from "The Shack":
God speaking:
"The real underlying flaw in your life, [Emily], is that you don't think that I am good. If you knew I was good and that everything - the end, the means and all the processes of individual lives - is all covered by my goodness, then while you might not always understand what I am doing, you would trust me. But you don't."
Lord, I know that you are good! I trust you. You are worthy of all praise, glory and honor, and you are certainly worthy of my trust - especially when I don't understand your ways. Have mercy on me. Thank you for your love, grace and peace that passes all understanding. Thank you for this season of special dependence on you! Please sell our home in Cambridge.
My cup overflows! Blessed be your name, O Lord!
Monday, June 09, 2008
Peace and Rest cont.
That was just a weird night, the other night. Thankfully the peace and rest has been restored in our home. Thank you for all your sweet prayers!!
On a side note: I've finished "The Shack" and it is the most challenging and thought-provoking thing I have ever read. It also, however, challenged my trust in God which stirred up some fear issues - which I think had something to do with the other night...
I'll write more later about this. I'm still working through all that the book stirred up in me. One word of caution: don't buy into the controversial hype. Yes, God appears to the main character, Mack, as a woman - which raises justified red flags. However, it is quickly explained that God is neither male nor female. Mack has major father issues and therefore God the Father, called Papa in the book, appeals to him from a more gentle perspective. Papa also explains to Mack that after the fall they (the Trinity) knew that the Father figure would be the one most needed by their children which is why He is referred to as "the Father" throughout scripture. And, fyi Papa does appear to Mack as a father later on in the book.
There are so many amazing things about this book - don't miss out on it!
A few of the things I'm dealing with because of "The Shack": forgiving others, understanding all I've been forgiven, trusting God through life and death, the power of mutual submission, and feeling a new sense of intimacy with God - the Trinity.
much love, dear friends!
On a side note: I've finished "The Shack" and it is the most challenging and thought-provoking thing I have ever read. It also, however, challenged my trust in God which stirred up some fear issues - which I think had something to do with the other night...
I'll write more later about this. I'm still working through all that the book stirred up in me. One word of caution: don't buy into the controversial hype. Yes, God appears to the main character, Mack, as a woman - which raises justified red flags. However, it is quickly explained that God is neither male nor female. Mack has major father issues and therefore God the Father, called Papa in the book, appeals to him from a more gentle perspective. Papa also explains to Mack that after the fall they (the Trinity) knew that the Father figure would be the one most needed by their children which is why He is referred to as "the Father" throughout scripture. And, fyi Papa does appear to Mack as a father later on in the book.
There are so many amazing things about this book - don't miss out on it!
A few of the things I'm dealing with because of "The Shack": forgiving others, understanding all I've been forgiven, trusting God through life and death, the power of mutual submission, and feeling a new sense of intimacy with God - the Trinity.
much love, dear friends!
Friday, June 06, 2008
Peace and Rest
I've been thinking about this blog for several days. There are several reasons to write about this topic, for me, and last night added one more.
First I began thinking about this because all of my friends here in NoVa describe me as laid back and easy going. I'm pretty sure that's a first!!! I've always been known to be a bit edgy, somewhat confrontational - loving, loyal, and very considerate to my friends - but always quick to throw myself into a movement I believe in, and definitely willing to cause ripples. I really don't think ANYONE in my past would describe me as laid back and easy going.
When I first began hearing this description of me I was shocked...but mostly flattered! I am still very much the "Emily" I described above, but I realized that I really LOVE being known as a person of peace....though I'm still not sure how accurate a description it is.
Either my friends have a skewed perspective on easy-going and laid back, or the Lord is actually changing me to have a more peaceful approach to life, despite my activist tendencies!! I really hope it is the latter.
Secondly, the words "peace and rest" have been on my lips a lot over the past few years. These are the words I pray over Eliot as I lay her in her crib at night, and Raegan and Reece as I tuck them in: That the Lord would bless them with a peaceful, restful sleep.
Whenever we have company, these are the words I pray for them while they are in our home: That their hearts would be filled with peace and rest.
I've come to relish my meditation play list because of the peace and rest I feel when I listen to it. (Don't think I don't still have hip-hop and all kind of crazy stuff playing, too.....I don't see that ever changing. I still like to get my groove on...you know....:))
Thirdly, I think this may be a ministry the Lord is giving our family - to be a place of peace and rest for those who need it. ...we'll see.
Lastly, I am greatly disturbed when that peace and rest is interrupted or disturbed as it was last night. Eliot had a really awful night last night. Something was scaring her so terribly that she ended up crawling out/falling out of her crib. This was after hours of praying through her room, trying to work with her through the fear, moving the night light to a different part of the room, trying to have her sleep with us (she has never slept with us...not because we didn't want her to she has just never wanted to, much to Gavin's great disappointment - last night was no different). I bound the spirit of fear and cast it out of our house over and over, asking the Holy Spirit to replace it with peace and rest and lots of love. Finally, around 4am I was able to rock her to sleep (a first) and lay her down in her bed. I stayed for a little while to be sure she would remain asleep. ....it was a weird and painful night. I would appreciate any prayer for wisdom and insight - eyes to see what was scaring her so much, and prayer for peace, rest and comfort over little Elle.
I pray peace and rest over you, dear friends.
much love,
em
First I began thinking about this because all of my friends here in NoVa describe me as laid back and easy going. I'm pretty sure that's a first!!! I've always been known to be a bit edgy, somewhat confrontational - loving, loyal, and very considerate to my friends - but always quick to throw myself into a movement I believe in, and definitely willing to cause ripples. I really don't think ANYONE in my past would describe me as laid back and easy going.
When I first began hearing this description of me I was shocked...but mostly flattered! I am still very much the "Emily" I described above, but I realized that I really LOVE being known as a person of peace....though I'm still not sure how accurate a description it is.
Either my friends have a skewed perspective on easy-going and laid back, or the Lord is actually changing me to have a more peaceful approach to life, despite my activist tendencies!! I really hope it is the latter.
Secondly, the words "peace and rest" have been on my lips a lot over the past few years. These are the words I pray over Eliot as I lay her in her crib at night, and Raegan and Reece as I tuck them in: That the Lord would bless them with a peaceful, restful sleep.
Whenever we have company, these are the words I pray for them while they are in our home: That their hearts would be filled with peace and rest.
I've come to relish my meditation play list because of the peace and rest I feel when I listen to it. (Don't think I don't still have hip-hop and all kind of crazy stuff playing, too.....I don't see that ever changing. I still like to get my groove on...you know....:))
Thirdly, I think this may be a ministry the Lord is giving our family - to be a place of peace and rest for those who need it. ...we'll see.
Lastly, I am greatly disturbed when that peace and rest is interrupted or disturbed as it was last night. Eliot had a really awful night last night. Something was scaring her so terribly that she ended up crawling out/falling out of her crib. This was after hours of praying through her room, trying to work with her through the fear, moving the night light to a different part of the room, trying to have her sleep with us (she has never slept with us...not because we didn't want her to she has just never wanted to, much to Gavin's great disappointment - last night was no different). I bound the spirit of fear and cast it out of our house over and over, asking the Holy Spirit to replace it with peace and rest and lots of love. Finally, around 4am I was able to rock her to sleep (a first) and lay her down in her bed. I stayed for a little while to be sure she would remain asleep. ....it was a weird and painful night. I would appreciate any prayer for wisdom and insight - eyes to see what was scaring her so much, and prayer for peace, rest and comfort over little Elle.
I pray peace and rest over you, dear friends.
much love,
em
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Much Better Day Today
Well, Praise the Lord, and thank you for your prayers...we had a lovely day today!
Soren is as good as new. We're still going to take him to the vet this next week, for good measure.
The guys took the Odyssey into Honda and got a new tire, then drove to Exxon to have it put on since the wait at the dealership was four hours. (It's a special tire that we had to buy from the dealership....) They were able to get it done relatively quickly and inexpensively!!:)
The girls and I had a successful and fun morning cleaning the house to prepare for Sabbath and company.
We had a photographer from Cooksey Keepsakes come to the house today around 12:00 to take family pictures. We also had five other families come over to have their pictures taken. It was so much fun! I did this about a month ago at my friend Meredith's house. I just had pictures of the girls. They were so fantastic that I decided to host a "party" and have pictures of our family taken. It's a great, laid back environment, and kids do so much better in a home than a studio.
The pictures I got of the girls a month ago were the best pictures I've ever gotten of them. I am so pleased. I'm excited to see the results of the family pics. Plus, having my friends over to get pictures of their children was so much fun. The mom's and I hung out in the kitchen eating some munchies, while the photographer worked her magic.
In two weeks we'll all get back together, without children, sip some wine, and look over the proofs together. It's really fun! This is a growing company so, if you're interested, you should google them for the Cooksey Keepsake photographer near you:)
The last of our company left by around 4:30, and I snuck upstairs while Gavin had the girls, for a little down time. I put on my Rachel Portman playlist on repeat and read a little out of the book I'm into right now: The Shack. (It's so good and thought-provoking. I'm sure I'll have a whole blog about it once I'm finished.)
I was ready to rejoin my wonderful family after a few minutes of solitude.
Opening Sabbath was wonderful, as usual. Nick made his super-yummy-sweet-Marsala Chicken, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, from scratch, caramelized carrots and made-from-scratch Key Lime Pie!!! YUM!
What a blessed day!
Soren is as good as new. We're still going to take him to the vet this next week, for good measure.
The guys took the Odyssey into Honda and got a new tire, then drove to Exxon to have it put on since the wait at the dealership was four hours. (It's a special tire that we had to buy from the dealership....) They were able to get it done relatively quickly and inexpensively!!:)
The girls and I had a successful and fun morning cleaning the house to prepare for Sabbath and company.
We had a photographer from Cooksey Keepsakes come to the house today around 12:00 to take family pictures. We also had five other families come over to have their pictures taken. It was so much fun! I did this about a month ago at my friend Meredith's house. I just had pictures of the girls. They were so fantastic that I decided to host a "party" and have pictures of our family taken. It's a great, laid back environment, and kids do so much better in a home than a studio.
The pictures I got of the girls a month ago were the best pictures I've ever gotten of them. I am so pleased. I'm excited to see the results of the family pics. Plus, having my friends over to get pictures of their children was so much fun. The mom's and I hung out in the kitchen eating some munchies, while the photographer worked her magic.
In two weeks we'll all get back together, without children, sip some wine, and look over the proofs together. It's really fun! This is a growing company so, if you're interested, you should google them for the Cooksey Keepsake photographer near you:)
The last of our company left by around 4:30, and I snuck upstairs while Gavin had the girls, for a little down time. I put on my Rachel Portman playlist on repeat and read a little out of the book I'm into right now: The Shack. (It's so good and thought-provoking. I'm sure I'll have a whole blog about it once I'm finished.)
I was ready to rejoin my wonderful family after a few minutes of solitude.
Opening Sabbath was wonderful, as usual. Nick made his super-yummy-sweet-Marsala Chicken, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, from scratch, caramelized carrots and made-from-scratch Key Lime Pie!!! YUM!
What a blessed day!
Friday, May 30, 2008
Crazy night....going straight to bed
Our evening started out lovely. Gavin and I were having a little date with Reece. We ate dinner at IHOP, which is always fun. Then we headed over to the "Perils of the Jungle" put-put. Reece has never played put-put before....it was very funny.
We had a great time and lots of laughs. Reece is a bundle of joy.
....then we came home....
Pulling into the garage we noticed Raegan's bike was sticking out a little bit. I also saw that Soren's lead was wrapped around the bike. I thought I had enough room to get by, but I didn't. The right tire ran over the edge of the bike and blew the tire out immediately. I started to back up (unaware of the blown tire) and trapped Soren's leg under the back tire. He began crying out for help immediately. I didn't know where he was so Gavin jumped out and was able to tell me to pull forward slightly.
Soren was limping a little, but after much love and attention he is back to his playful self and LOVING all the attention. We're going to keep a close eye on him over the next few weeks. Praise the Lord, he isn't even limping anymore (only 30min. after the mishap).
Several other "unfortunate events" happened within the next hour, but none really worth mentioning. Any prayers for Soren would be appreciated.
We've all decided that we're heading straight to bed right now to end this as soon as we possibly can.......after some time of prayer for protection over our home and each member of our family, including our little man, Soren.
We had a great time and lots of laughs. Reece is a bundle of joy.
....then we came home....
Pulling into the garage we noticed Raegan's bike was sticking out a little bit. I also saw that Soren's lead was wrapped around the bike. I thought I had enough room to get by, but I didn't. The right tire ran over the edge of the bike and blew the tire out immediately. I started to back up (unaware of the blown tire) and trapped Soren's leg under the back tire. He began crying out for help immediately. I didn't know where he was so Gavin jumped out and was able to tell me to pull forward slightly.
Soren was limping a little, but after much love and attention he is back to his playful self and LOVING all the attention. We're going to keep a close eye on him over the next few weeks. Praise the Lord, he isn't even limping anymore (only 30min. after the mishap).
Several other "unfortunate events" happened within the next hour, but none really worth mentioning. Any prayers for Soren would be appreciated.
We've all decided that we're heading straight to bed right now to end this as soon as we possibly can.......after some time of prayer for protection over our home and each member of our family, including our little man, Soren.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Tea Party
Yesterday Raegan invited her daddy and sisters to a tea party. I helped her get everything ready. She wanted chamomile tea and some kind of treat. It was her idea to have cinnamon graham crackers and some strawberries.
Gavin was very happy to participate in the tea time. He read a few passages from W.B. Yeats. The girls were attentive.
Some of the pictures are outside, where the tea party began. When it started to rain they moved the party indoors.
I love these times! The girls adore their daddy. It is a precious gift to be a daddy's girl, and to have a daddy that adores you right back!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Thursday, May 15, 2008
A Few Pictures
I ended up not getting very good pictures of Jenny's homecoming, which is such a bummer. But here are the few that turned out alright. Background: Jenny thought that just mom was meeting her at the airport. Instead there were about 20 of us waiting at the bottom of the escalator! Needless to say, she was very surprised!
The last picture I just HAD to throw in there, because it is of me standing next to Trish's book, "He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not", at the local Barnes and Noble!! Though the picture is not a flattering one of me I still had to add it! I'm so proud of Trish and all the work she's put into this great memoir. I also couldn't help myself as I grabbed a copy off the shelves and put it on one of the front tables, up by the door....I have NO self control...I know this. Feel free to pray for me.:)
The last picture I just HAD to throw in there, because it is of me standing next to Trish's book, "He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not", at the local Barnes and Noble!! Though the picture is not a flattering one of me I still had to add it! I'm so proud of Trish and all the work she's put into this great memoir. I also couldn't help myself as I grabbed a copy off the shelves and put it on one of the front tables, up by the door....I have NO self control...I know this. Feel free to pray for me.:)
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Abide in Me
These are words that I have recently felt spoken deep in my spirit. "Abide in Me". At a moment when I was calling out for understanding, these are the words He spoke to me. And as I think, wonder, pray over what those words mean to me right now, in this present season, a new chapter of faith is unfolding before me.
My times of prayer have, in great measure, been spent asking "what does that look like right now?". Certainly this phrase is not a new concept to me. However, as each new season, trial, etc. presents itself the meaning of that phrase is not so easy to define. Sure, I could offer up the definition of Abide:
"continue, remain, survive, last, persist, stay, live on; obey, observe, follow, keep to, hold to, conform to, adhere to, stick to, stand by, act in accordance with, uphold, heed, accept, go along with, acknowledge, respect, defer to"
...but those are just words. I love them - lots of great words there, but what do they mean to me, living out this life of faith, day to day? This is where the beauty of the living, Holy Triune - three in One, God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit speak into my life; speak to my spirit. This moment of questioning is where I surrender my understanding of these words "Abide in Me".
I come before my Holy, Holy, Holy God and ask for wisdom and insight. ...and He meets me there.
Brilliant!
Suddenly my eyes are opened and I see wounds that have not been forgiven - never even dawned on me there was a need to forgive this person. This woman who the enemy has used, and my dad allowed, to tear our family apart by having an ongoing affair with him for the last 10 years - I'm supposed to stop hating her (I've HATED her for 10 years) - even more, I'm supposed to forgive her.... I can't believe I was so blinded by my hatred that I couldn't see this no-brainer!! I thought forgiving my dad was enough, and am still walking down that road with minor set backs from time to time.
And yet, here I am again....."what does that mean, Lord?", "forgive her?!", "what does that look like?".
"Abide in Me"
I trust You, Lord. Forgive me. Change me.
My times of prayer have, in great measure, been spent asking "what does that look like right now?". Certainly this phrase is not a new concept to me. However, as each new season, trial, etc. presents itself the meaning of that phrase is not so easy to define. Sure, I could offer up the definition of Abide:
"continue, remain, survive, last, persist, stay, live on; obey, observe, follow, keep to, hold to, conform to, adhere to, stick to, stand by, act in accordance with, uphold, heed, accept, go along with, acknowledge, respect, defer to"
...but those are just words. I love them - lots of great words there, but what do they mean to me, living out this life of faith, day to day? This is where the beauty of the living, Holy Triune - three in One, God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit speak into my life; speak to my spirit. This moment of questioning is where I surrender my understanding of these words "Abide in Me".
I come before my Holy, Holy, Holy God and ask for wisdom and insight. ...and He meets me there.
Brilliant!
Suddenly my eyes are opened and I see wounds that have not been forgiven - never even dawned on me there was a need to forgive this person. This woman who the enemy has used, and my dad allowed, to tear our family apart by having an ongoing affair with him for the last 10 years - I'm supposed to stop hating her (I've HATED her for 10 years) - even more, I'm supposed to forgive her.... I can't believe I was so blinded by my hatred that I couldn't see this no-brainer!! I thought forgiving my dad was enough, and am still walking down that road with minor set backs from time to time.
And yet, here I am again....."what does that mean, Lord?", "forgive her?!", "what does that look like?".
"Abide in Me"
I trust You, Lord. Forgive me. Change me.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Happy Mother's Day!
This is a little over the top, but it makes me smile thinking more about my mom than any experiences I've actually had as a mother yet. Enjoy:)
Happy Mother's day!
Happy Mother's day!
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