Loca Chica

Share with me!

2011-05-03T12:53:00.005-05:00

If you are one of my followers or faithful blog-readers, you have probably noticed that I haven't posted for quite a while now, and for multiple weeks now I haven't even logged onto my blog account to read the blogs that I follow. There are just so many things that have been happening in my crazy-busy life, and one of the first things that usually gets removed from my schedule is usually my online/blog time! I appreciate all the e-mails and comments from those of you who miss me posting regularly..I believe that ya'll are such amazingly nice people, and am humbled by how my blog has been at least a small source of enjoyment and encouragement to you!

I have also relized that I NEED to post for my benefit, also. It keeps me disciplined and consistent. I find that by blogging I stay more "in tune" with God, and I'm always listening attentively for that faint whisper inside my heart that says, "Blog about this, Loca, there is someone I have in mind that needs to read this", it's the sweetest voice in the world to me, the voice of my Abba. And it's refreshing to me to be somewhat vulnerable and to share some of my journal entries, prayers, poems, etc. and to know that it's almost like a form of worship for me.

So I'm excited to announce that I am returning to the blog world :) And since I feel like I've been missing out on sooo much while I've been gone I want a chance to catch up a little bit with you all. I would **love** for everyone(yes, that means you!!!) who reads this to either leave a comment or e-mail me and let me know your answer to at least one of these questions(if you want to get me reeeeaaaallly excited, go ahead and answer ALL of them!!!): What has God been teaching you in the past few months? How has He been active in your life, where have you noticed His fingerprints? Is there a part of His character that He is revealing to you like never before? Or maybe it's been a difficult time and you have been learning the delicate art of worshipping in what I call the "silent, waiting times"(speaking of which, these times are usually the pause before the forte; one of God's favorite times to do what He's best at:creating beauty from ashes, and joy from sorrow).

I will end with that, and after you share your answers with me, I will share mine with you in a future post :)

My Desire

2010-10-27T13:11:00.007-05:00

Intoxicate me with your extravagant love.
Inspire me with Your endless beauty.
Liberate me with Your freedom.
Enlighten me with Your wisdom.
Refine me with Your discipline.
Fill me with Your praises.
Grant me a heart overflowing with thanksgiving.
Create in me a pure spirit full of adoration for You.
Set me ablaze with Your fire.
Sanctify me with Your holiness.
Revalutionize me with Your Word.
Speak to me with your passionate yet tender vioce.
Save me with Your might.
Perfect me with Your strength in my weakness.
Edify me with your righteousness.
Dwell in me with Your encompassing presence.
Saturate my lips with prayer.
Assure me with Your peace. Elevate me with Your hope.
Rejoice over me with Your singing. Quiet me with your love. Take my eyes of worthless things.

Above is the prayer I wrote in my prayer journal last night. This prayer is my desire. It is my heart's cry.
As you all know, if you read my last post, I'm going through a refining process right now. There are major things going on in my life that aren't the way I would like them to be, at least my flesh doesn't want them this way. My circumstances are demanding a lot from me as a Christ-follower. I have to abide in Jesus, or my flesh and human nature will take me to places I do not want to go..very quickly.
Yet even in the midst of all the chaos, doubt, worry, fear, and tears, I still know that my Rock, my Redeemer, my Abba, He's still here. And just because I can't see Him, or feel Him, or even hear Him at times, I'm 100% convinced that it doesn't mean He's not here. Holding me. Collecting my tears in His bottle(Psalm 56:8). Carrying me.
Despite how difficult some moments, hours, and even certain days have been for me recently, I do see His fingerprints all over my family and our circumstances. He's working things together for our good. He is sustaining us. Unlike us, He is all-knowing, He sees the past, present, and future. He has already written the book of my life, including the last chapter, which last time I checked in Revelation, is going to be soo worth every moment of agony, hurt, pain, doubt, everything. He is using His refining process to cultivate and plant the seeds for what I've been praying for. How can I grow and develope into the woman God wants me to be, without these trials and tests? How can I become more holy, sanctified, and righteous, except by being refined(Hebrews 5:11)? How will my eyes stop always looking to temparary, worthless, worldly things, unless they are shown and trained to recognize things of true worth?

Right now regardless of what you're going through, or where you are at in your spiritual walk, remember to trust God. Have faith. Remember that He is the one with the full perspective, His ways are higher than ours, He always knows what He's doing.

The Lord your God is with you. He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love. He will rejoice over you with singing. (Zephaniah 3:17)

Turn my eyes away from worthless things. (Psalm 119:37)

He Knows, He Sees, He Cares

2010-10-06T13:24:00.009-05:00

My family and I are going through a series of trials right now. Not only a job loss, but the process of letting go of a loved one who is passing away, also. Over the period of about two weeks ago until now, there have been moments where things seemed like they were being thrown at me as if I was in a destructive, terrifying hurricane that was going to swallow me whole. Shock. Fear. Doubt. Grief. Questioning.
Yes. I know all the verses. All the promises. All the wonderful scriptures. Along with all the memorized, band-aid, explanations, answers, and sympathies. My logical mind is fully educated in those truths. And for that I'm grateful. Yet my spirit and flesh are at a low point right now. The flesh and weakness must die before I can finally live those truths. Live them with unwavering faith, and indomitable conviction.
All my weaknesses have a way of showing their ugly faces at the times when I'm the most vulnerable to their attacks. I get this notion that I need to be God's perfect, always-joyful-and-100%-trusting follower. But the reality is that I can do absolutely nothing. I am experiencing the truth in John 15:5, where Jesus said that apart from Him, we can do nothing. I have no power aside from Him. In many ways right now, I am literally helpless.
But I am thankful, oh so grateful for my exceedingly patient, tenderly comforting, all-powerfully strong, mercifully forgiving, eternally righteous, infinitely understanding, all-knowing, flawless, exalted, loving, sacred, and beautiful Redeemer.
He knows.
He sees.
He cares.
While I only see a small picture, and only dimly from the perspective down here(1 Cor. 13:12). But He sees the beginning and the end, and every moment in between. He is with me, carrying me.
Someday, wisdom will make me look back at this season and be grateful for this time of difficulty, adversity, and trial. I already feel stronger because I cannot abide apart from my Abba(Daddy). I am learning more about His character. His heart. His power. And whether I see evidence of it or not, I know that He truly is working all together for my good, and for my family's good. Because we are His, and we are called according to His purpose.
So even on the hardest days, we can dwell on the truth that through the whole refining and purifying process, He promises to never leave us nor forsake us. (Hebrews 13:6)

2010-08-07T10:40:00.000-05:00

Yes!! I'm still alive!! And I've missed all my friends, followers, and readers in I don't have a lot of time to post, but I figure that a short post is better than no post at all. It's been a very busy Summer of 2010 for my family, and it's not over yet. My amazing friend from Spain, Moonshaw(some of you may follow her blog, if you don't, go to the list of blogs I follow, and become a follower of her!), is arriving to visit me in just over a week!
Another thing I can't believe is the fact that public school begins in about two weeks! I'm in orchestra this year...but not playing my violin, as I normally would. For the first year, I'll be playing the VIOLA,which I just began in June. I really enjoy playing the viola, and am excited to see how I do in the High School Orchestra, having only first picked up a viola less than two months ago! I'll also be taking bass and cello lessons, along with my violin, piano, music theory, and viola lessons, as well. Oh, the practice time!

Alexa, our beautiful blonde.

Dad, and Akian.

Little Ayson, who had a birthday in June. As you can see, he thoroughly enjoyed his chocolate birthday cake!

Austin and Andru, best buddies, lookin' nice :)

I hope that you've all had a wonderful Summer so far! I'm excited to be back in the blog world, and can't wait to catch up on all of the blog posts I've missed :)

A Blood Donor Saved My Life

2010-06-11T13:49:00.003-05:00

I saw a T-Shirt a couple days ago, while in Missouri, when I was traveling with a friend. It said, "A Blood Donor Saved My Life." I thought about how that could apply spiritually. After pondering it for a while, I though, 'That's true for me, too. Jesus, a blood donor, saved my life.' Okay, so I'm going to take a bit of a detour, but I'll eventually get back to this t-shirt message.

I'm a person who needs A LOT of grace! I tend to be a control freak(something I am working on..), and I also struggle with patience and self-control more than I care to admit.. Sometimes I wonder why God didn't give up on me long ago. There are countless times when I do my evening devotions and I pray something like this, 'Abba, once again, I've failed miserably today. I've allowed my fleshly desires to control me. I've given into my emotions, letting them take over. I didn't keep my tongue under control. I didn't give my family the love and respect they deserved today. Abba, all I can give you tonight is my ugly, putrid, disgusting, rotting, smelly, soiled leftovers. I need your grace.'

It's easy for me to feel guilty. After a terrible day, even though I know that God's grace IS sufficient, and that I can't be righteous in my own strength, I start to think that I need to work harder, try harder, have more willpower, etc., etc.. I start thinking of ways I can kind of "make up" for all my mistakes, by doing "extra" things for God tomorrow, or attempt to be extra spiritual. I don't always do this, but it does happen. Why is it so easy to fall into the lie that I have to earn God's affection, acceptance, grace, blessings, forgiveness, or love?

When a blood donor donates blood, they don't expect the person who will eventually receive the blood to "earn it". The blood is donated. Given freely. Without expectations of anything in return.

That's how God's grace is. Jesus donated His blood. Isaiah 53:5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our sins; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.

It's soo liberating to know that Jesus donated His blood for us. He doesn't want our pitiful attempts of righteousness, which is like filthy rags compared to His holiness. He doesn't want anything but for us to accept his gift, and live in the freedom, strength, and grace that He provides.
Here are some verse I read last night about grace:

Romans 3:24;28 and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.(28)For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law.

2 Cor. 12:9 But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

Romans 11:6 And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.

Finally!

2010-05-31T13:03:00.002-05:00

Yes, finally!! My cast was removed, just a couple hours after my sister took that picture. It was the most wonderful feeling, the first few seconds after the nurse sawed it off. With how much I exercise, and the time of year it is, when the weather is warmer, the cast was extremely sweaty, saturated in sweat..eew! I know! Such a relief to get the thing off! Thankfully, the doctor said that the bone that broke, could not have healed any better, which is a great!

Although not the best picture..it was supposed to be me kissing my cast good-bye. In case it's not that clear :)

Since it's been removed, I've been enjoying doing all the activities that I missed while my wrist was broke. Jump roping, doing pilates, showering without worrying about water getting my cast wet through the annoying bag that I had to use, and especially playing my musical instruments, mainly the violin. It's sooooooooo nice to be able to play again! No, it's not painless. In fact, I have to take it really easy when practicing the violin, so there isn't any permanent damage done, and there is a lot of discomfort and some tinges of pain at times. I'm thankful for the fact that it should all disappear in time. God is good!

Well there's the update! Thanks for all your wonderful prayers, e-mails, and comments when I broke my arm,they were appreciated :)

Some Funness

2010-05-07T14:10:00.009-05:00

This is just a fun post-a tag with some fun questions, so since I haven't posted for a while(since breaking my arm) I think I'll just post this for a little funness. I was experimenting to see how many times I could cram the word "fun" into a sentence. Not bad, eh? Crazy, random, LocaChica-like..yes, as you can tell a broken arm has not subtracted the amount of goofy, random, weird, unique, LocaChica-ness in this girl :) (My arm is, in fact, feeling MUCH better..it's the messy, stinky, sweaty, stinky, dirty, stinky, gross, and did I mention STINKY?!! cast that is the most annoying thing about the whole break! Yesterday I was venting-not complaining-to my mom about how I'm not sure how much longer I can take my music-less, broken arm life. I'm having those urges to play my instruments, especially violin, and nothing will quench it, I feel like I'm gonna go insane long before I get this cast off! But, as my great-grandma used to, and mom always says, "This too, shall pass." I'm countin' down the days!)

And finally, on to the award already! This is the Pure In Heart award, Akeret HaBayit graciously awarded me this, which IF I do deserve it, it's only because of the Jesus in me, and what He has done to every part of me, including my heart.

So here are the rules: If you are tagged:1. Post about the tag2. Pick 10 bloggers who deserve this award3. Leave a comment on the blogs of the people you tagged letting them know they were awarded4.

Answer the questions along with your post 1: Apples, Oranges or Bananas? I love fruits! Eat apples and bananas pretty much every day, and oranges when they're in season..I guess I'd say bananas, for all the nutrition and healthiness they have packed inside that peel, I eat one every day after I work out :)
2: How many siblings do you have?1. Brace yourself! 10!! Yes, there are 11 of us children, if you count me. How else would I have acquired this much loca(crazy)ness??
3: How old are you? 127 and a half :P
4: Do you live on a woodland, swamp, city, or other?City. I'm a combo of a city girl, and a country, nature cowgirl.
5: Scissors or glue? Glue. When I was younger, I would put glue all over my fingers, let it dry, and then peel it off. I have no idea why it was so fun, it just was :)
6: Describe your dream house: Seriously, a grass hut in Mexico, or wherever God wants me to be a missionary at, would suit me just fine. I've never been into houses, cars, or any of that stuff before. Give me shelter(and NO wasps!!!) and I'm all good. Air conditioning is nice..not needed, but nice.
7: Is your room clean? At the moment, yes. A very strange thing happened this morning, my little brother cleaned it for me. No, you can't buy him :P
8: If you could be a movie character for a day, who would you be? Lucy in the Chronicles of Narnia DVD series.
9: Italy, Greece, France, Spain or England? Spain, of course, I'm biased because of my love of the Spanish language. Plus, my very best friend lives there, and so does my second favorite tennis player. Hands down, Spain.
10: What denomination are you? Don't get me started. I hate the barriers of denominations. I've went to so many churches, Jewish(ok, we all know that technically Jewish people don't call them churches..), Pentecostal, Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, you name it. Too many people get way too wrapped up in all this denominational stuff..in my humble opinion.
11: Do you sleep with a stuffed toy (BE HONEST!!!!) No, never have been able to. When I was really young, I thought that all stuffed animals became real at nights. Freaked me out. Waaaay too many movies, I guess.
12: Gum, chocolate, or jelly beans?Gum. As long as it's sugarless. I'm nearly addicted to a pack a week-at least it's only gum! Bonuses-keeps breath smelling great, cleans teeth, and quenches my 'head hunger' when I feel like eating, but am not really hungry.
13: What is your favorite book?The B-I-B-L-E.
14: Favorite ice cream flavor? Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, with tons of caramel, chocolate, and Hersheys hard shell toppings..add a few nuts and a cherry on top. Healthy? Absolutely not. Delicious? You better believe it.
15: If you had to eat one type of food for two weeks, what would that food be? Fruit salad. This would give me lots of vitamins and energy, plus variety(lots of fruits in there) so it wouldn't get as boring. Still, I don't think I could only eat one thing for two weeks straight-ugh!
.16: What is your favorite Olympic sport? ) Tennis, I would have to say is my absolute favorite. Everything else I love to watch, too, so second place is a huge tie.
17: If you woke up and discovered that you had turned into Miley Cyrus for the day, what would you do?Go shopping for more modest, cute, girly clothes. And turn one of my concerts into a huge evangelist event-with all Christian music.
18: Describe yourself in three words:Bold, active, unique.
19: What do you hate?Not much..although I wouldn't mind if the world was completely without wasps and broken arms..*sighs*...oh, and I do really abhor sitting still for too long.
.20: If Elmo came into your room with a gun, what would you do? Start quoting his book, Elmo Has To Go Potty, that I read about 17 billion times to the little boy I baby-sat Wednesday..yes, I have it memorized.
Here are just SOME of the many bloggers whose blogs I follow, that in my opinion, seem to have pure, passionate-for-Jesus hearts, besides the blogger who awarded me this :)
Katy, at 110% Surrendered?
A Hopeful Romantic
Arrowsprings

While I'm Waiting
Haley's Happenings
Thoughts of a Small Town Girl
Mexico Bound 2010
Sisters of Grace
Violinist For Christ
Aisling..(My best amiga from Spain :D)

After and Before

2010-04-21T13:38:00.005-05:00

After,
Before

Notice the difference?

Okay, yes, I'm wearing a different outfit, the photo's were taken three days apart, I have a different haircut, one is outside, one is inside..and in one I have a broken arm. Yeah, the purple thing is my cast :) How did I accomplish that feat, you ask? Well..in a word:kickball. I was playing kickball with some siblings and relatives, and as I was trying to tag somebody who was running to second base, they decided to slide in and knock me off of my feet, causing me to break my arm. While at the doctor, Monday(for my broken arm), I was also diagnosed with pneumonia(yes, I had to look up how to spell that). So needless to say, physically, this hasn't been my most wonderful week ever.

But you know what? I've learned a lot in three days. Four things a broken arm has taught me so far:

1.Creativity-I"ve had to(so far!):Find a comfortable way to sleep( NOT on my left side, like I did before my arm broke,because I have to keep my arm elevated), learn how to crack an egg one handed(it only took one try, too!), shower without getting a single drop of water on my cast, text and type with one thumb, instead of two, and find a new way to apply deodorant to one of my underarms!!

2.Contentment-I decided from the day I broke my arm that I was NOT going to complain or have pity parties during the 6 weeks of having a cast. I'm going to do absolutely everything I can, and not complain about anything I can't. When I have a hundred reasons to complain or frown, I'll choose to focus on the thousand reasons I have to smile and be thankful!

3.Appreciation-for how much easier it is to do everything with two normal, healthy arms and hands. There is a little girl with only one arm in Awana, that is my little friend. I've felt bad for her before, but never realized how strong, smart and resilient she really is, she does everything with one arm, and never complains! When my arm heals, I will appreciate the two arms God gave me a lot more than before!

4. A sense of humor. When all else fails, and I'm just bummed out because I have to miss my violin performances, or I can't play sports, or do what I want to do, I just make myself or somebody else laugh. A cheerful heart truly is the best medicine!

So, in the meantime, while this thing is healing, I won't probably be posting that often(it's quite annoying to type up posts with one hand)but I'll try to stop by every week or so. I will be trying to get ahead in schoolwork and work on growing closer to my Abba during this time. And although I can't rollerblade, play tennis, basketball, softball, jump rope, swim, play my violin, guitar, or piano, which I'll really, really miss. I still can do a lot of things, like volleyball(which I did just a couple hours after breaking my arm!) writing(thank goodness it was my left arm!!), reading, jogging, trampolining, taking walks outside, baking, and lots of other things that I enjoy doing!

Some leftovers :)

2010-04-12T13:35:00.007-05:00

I wrote this "poem" a few weeks ago, during a two hour car ride, during which I was filled with the Holy Spirit and overwhelmed with a panting and thirsting desire for more of my sweet Jesus. Usually when this happens, my soul can only hold so much, and the leftovers that pour over the cup of my soul most often end up in my prayer notebook. My hope is that this will encourage, inspire, or uplift your soul in some way today as you read this.

You probably know by reading my blog, that I want to be a missionary someday. Joyfully surrendering my future to Jesus is liberating and wonderful. But my flesh still bombards my spirit with doubts, fears, and worries. As a missionary, and as a Christian, I must be willing to go through anything for Jesus. Physical pain and torture. Rejection. Loneliness. Grief. Difficult times. The list goes on and on. This is my poem of surrender, love, and commitment.

The spiritually lost and dying in this world desperately need people who will: Stand firm on their convictions. Give everything to Christ. Develop hearts of gratitude. Make habits of being gracious. Train themselves to be thankful. Take time to just be still. Live a life of self-sacrificing, compassionate, extravagant, Jesus-style love.

I will always love you, Lord

Through any confusion and doubt, I will always love you, Lord.

Through bumpy, difficult roads, and winding paths, I will always love you, Lord.

When my flesh pleads for pleasure instead of righteousness, I will choose to love you alone, Lord.

Through dark, lonely periods, I will always love you, Lord.

Through all the times when it's not easy, enjoyable, or popular to follow your word, I will always love you, Lord.

When the world hates me, as it hated you and the prophets before you, I will always love you, Lord.

Through physical discomfort, and even torture, I will always love you, Lord.

Journeying through the school of persecution, I will faithfully persevere. Always loving you, Lord.

When all around me others deny knowing you, for fear of man, I will always love you, Lord.

Boldly through iron curtains, and closed doors, faithfully spreading your gospel, I will always love you, Lord.

Through teaching, sharing, loving, encouraging, building, and spreading, I will always love you, Lord.

Defending the poor and the fatherless, I will always love you, Lord.

Feeding the hungry, nursing the sick, and blessing the unwanted, I will always love you, Lord.

Every beat of my pulse representing an unsaved soul that just died having never heard of your message of grace, I will renew my vow to go into the world and make disciples, always loving you, Lord.

Forsaking all earthly desires, pleasures, and ways, to further your kingdom, I will always love you, Lord.

Choosing to release what I cannot keep, to gain and share the message of eternal life that cannot be lost, I will always love you, Lord.

Remembering the perfect life of Jesus, my Redeemer, His mercy, compassion, righteousness, holiness, His life, death, and resurrection. I will choose to remember and thank Him for His ultimate sacrifice that He gave, I will always thank you, Lord.

Through every mountain, and through every valley, I will always love you. Trusting you for the strength sufficient only for each moment, trusting you will always faithfully supply my next moment's needs without me wondering or worrying, I will always love you, Lord.

And when life is brutal and I am filled with doubt and fear, I will choose to remember the way you died: Arms stretched open, heart filled with indescribable grace and love for your children. By dying this way, you answer all who question, your arms stretched wide displaying the everlasting promise, that through absolutely everything, You will always love us.

Because your love is better than life, because you first loved me, that's why I'll always love you, Lord

Noodles

2010-03-15T15:14:00.003-05:00

Have you ever heard of the popular book, If You Give a Pig a Pancake? Well, this is what happens if you give a two-year-old noodles :)

First, he'll have to close his eyes

Then he'll have to be sure and use BOTH his fingers, and his eating utensils

Add an adorable smile

And what will you end up with?! A room full of laughing siblings, a blog post idea, and a big mess!

Cuteness

2010-02-24T14:37:00.000-06:00

I couldn't resist taking a picture this morning, when I walked into the living room to this adorable scene :) I have the cutest siblings..and pets!

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-14T14:10:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentines Day, blogreaders! :)
I know it's been a while since I've posted. As I wrote in my last post, if you remember, I have been spending WAY less time on the internet, recently. I have been getting on maybe once or twice a week for less than an hour, and guess what?! I've survived! And it doesn't even bother me that much anymore. It only gets easier. I believe the fewer things that I "need" the better. I don't need the internet, I just enjoy it. But like almost everything else in life, moderation is the key. I don't want to be obsessed with anything(besides Jesus, the Bible, and serving God!!) and that includes the time I spend on the internet blogging and e-mailing. So, there is the reason my posting has been slowing down a bit recently.
I've been enjoying watching the olympics(in my opinion-Chinese opening ceremony was waaay better than this year's!) these past couple of days. I always say I like the Summer Olympics and not the Winter, until I start watching the Winter ones. Then I like them almost as much as the Summer ones. I get my love of sports from my dad :) Ice skating is my favorite winter sport. What is your favorite sport played at the Winter Olympics?

Important Clarification

2010-02-02T14:18:00.000-06:00

It's been a couple of weeks since I've posted on my blog. Part of the reason is because our internet has been acting up, and the other part is because I've just been busy. Sometimes I think I get so wrapped up in my "online life"(blogging, e-mailing, keeping up with the sports I like, etc.) that I set it WAY too high on my priority list and spend more time than I should online. God is working with me on this issue, and it's just another nail, holding me to the cross of the crucifixion of my sinful nature, and fleshly desires. It's necessary pruning being done by the Perfect Gardener, but that doesn't mean that it's any less painful.
Another thing I wanted to post about today: Many of you commented on my last post, "Be Still". I am humbled by some of the things people have commented to me on my blog, and also by the amount of people who didn't comment online, but rather told me in person how it blessed and encouraged them. But I'm beginning to feel as though people are seeing and praising MY work, and looking at ME, much more than is beneficial or necessary.
I want to make this clear: My writings aren't MY writings. I want to make sure that is crystal clear!! God gives me the things I write, some of which I post on my blog, and many of which I share with a few others, or just keep in my journal. The only reason I share them is because at certain times God leads me to do so, and then I hope the glory will go to Him, not me.
Apart from my Prince, Savior, and Lord Jesus Christ, I am nothing. Everything good in me is because He has washed away the filthiness of my self-centeredness and somehow brought me to the place where I am broken enough for Him to effectively use me for Him and His work. the last thing I want is people to look at my writing, my talents, my service, or my life and say "Wow, she's a great person. She's a fantastic writer. She has amazing talent." No, no, NO! Because none of it, nothing is about me! I want those who observe my actions and my life to say, "There is a girl who genuinely loves God with all her heart, soul, mind, and strength. Yes, she has many mistakes and shortcomings, but she serves the God who's strength is perfected in weakness', and whose love knows no boundaries. If He can take a selfish, arrogant, complaining teen who has so many struggles, and still prune, break, and mold her into something beautiful, then He can do the same with anybody else!" That is what I desire. Not just for this blog, but for every aspect of my life.

Not to say that I don't enjoy all the encouraging and thoughtful comments, because I sincerely do. I just want to make sure that you don't praise me because of anything good in me that isn't from me. I don't deserve any of the praise or glory from something that isn't any of my doing. Praise my God for all He has done. Then if you wish to share any "leftovers" of your thoughts on the post, etc., leave and comment and I will read it and also be encouraged. But let's give glory, praise, and to the correct and worthy recipient.

On my quest to "Be Still" here are some verses that the Holy Spirit has been using to speak to me, and help me to grow spiritually. Maybe they will do the same for you.
Every branch in me that does not bear fruit, He takes away. And every one that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bring forth more fruit. John 15:2

Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee:because he trusteth in thee. Isaiah 26:3

"For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another." Galations 5:13 (I've read and memorized Galations 5:13-26, and by doing so I have been blessed. Read this chapter next time you open your Bible!)

Be Still

2010-01-22T13:42:00.001-06:00

Recently, I've been experiencing what it's like to have a restless soul. Whenever I set aside time to read my Bible, and especially pray, I feel so unfocused and distant. As I was wondering why, and was begining to blame myself, and was thinking of things I might have been doing wrong, etc., I felt an urge to pick up my pen and write. So this is what I wrote:

Be Still

Be still my soul. Trust in your God. Dwell in and with Him, always. Believe in His sweet goodness. In His perfect righteousness. Meditate on the wondrous things He has done, is doing, and will yet do.

Think about His voice. The voice that calms every storm. Quiets every restless soul. Heals every broken heart. Forgives every sin.Tenderly assures His lambs of His love forthem. Constantly speaks to Hisbeloved, young children. And always instructs the heart that listens for His still, firm, familiar voice.

His eyes. Eyes that see the broken, afflicted, the poor and the hopeless, every lost and drifting soul, every prodigal. Eyes that notice every blessing given in His name. Every act of service done in secret for Him. Every tear that falls down every cheek. every exhausted and weary soul. And every field ripened for harvest, yet without any harvesters to reap.

His hands. Hands that reach out and touch. touch the blind, and give them sight. Touch the humble, and bless the meek. The hands that touch the heart of bitterness, melting it into love and forgiveness. Hands that with one touch, can take a broken home, and restore unto it fullness of joy, and unity. Hands that lavish blessings upon blessing on all who call upon His name, and love Him and serve Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. Hands that mightily grasp the world.

See His mighty arms. Strong enough to prevail againsty any evil force. Tender enough to cradle His lambs gently, giving them peace and rest. Arms mighty enough to have the victory for all of eternity.

See His heart. His heart that breaks each time His children are suffering for His name. His heart that passionately longs that none should live or die apart from Him. His heart that is for the orphans and widows. His heart that loves every person He has ever created, with an indescribable and unfathomable love. His heart that is given to all who receive Him.

Stand in Awe of Who He is, and how He loves, and what He does. Know that He alone is God. That He will never change. His voice, His eyes, His hands, His arms, and His heart are awesome and have no end.

Never allow yourself to doubt or ignore who you are, and Whose you are. For no matter what your emotions feel, you are loved with an everlasting love, and were purchased at an extravagant price.

Be Still.

Quotes:Kindness and Generosity

2010-01-20T15:21:00.000-06:00

This week's subject for WWW is Kindness and Generosity. Hope you enjoy!!

Generosity is not giving that which somebody needs more than you do, but giving somebody that which you need more than they do.

Treat everyone with politeness, even those who are rude to you - not because they are nice, but because you are.

If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.

Don't be yourself - be someone a little nicer.

How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.

Real generosity is doing something nice for someone who will never find out.

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.

The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control. (Bible)

Kindness is the greatest wisdom.

To err on the side of kindness is seldom an error.

The habit of giving only enhances the desire to give.

We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. (Winston Churchill)

A generous man diviseth generous things, and by generosity he shall stand. (Bible)

P.S, hope you like the new(or, rather, old!!) blog background :)

Silent Battle

2010-01-12T13:55:00.000-06:00

What does a lion do when it wants to kill it's prey? It silently, slowly, and patiently creeps up on it, being careful to be very sneaky, disguising itself the entire time. Once it gets close enough to kill it, it speedily pounces on the prey, tearing it apart and devouring it completely. Why am I writing about how a lion kills prey in one of my blog posts? Here's a hint: Be alert. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone whom he may devour.(1 Peter 5:8)

I am posting today about the battle all Christians face, the silent battle. Yes, our battle does involve a prowling lion, but as the Bible puts it, our battle is not against flesh and blood. It's a spiritual battle.

Many Christians seem to act as if they don't acknowledge or ever mention the devil, then somehow he will disappear, and never bother them. I'm sorry, but this just isn't true! The Bible says that Satan is the ruler, the prince of this world(John 15:19, . We are called to fight against him, putting on our full armor of God daily. (Read Eph 6:10-16)

Satan and his demons are prowling around and looking for any chance they can get to creep into your thoughts, into your actions, into your words, into your schedule, into anywhere you don't have your armor on, and little by little he will entrap you. Maybe you won't notice it at first. At first he'll just try to get you to do the little, small things. Then gradually he will try to get you to depend on your sin, or your bad habits, or anything that is not of God, and eventually he will get close enough to you to pounce on you, hurling himself onto you. Don't let him get you to that point!

There are many battles going on today. Battles against our families, battles against our wills and God's will, battles against the choices we make, and the lives affected by them. Perhaps now, more than many other generations, we must be even more alert and ready to fight at any time. How do we fight against, and defeat the devil? The Bible is very clear about it.

First, as I've mentioned, put on the FULL armor of God. As my older brother pointed out today in our family devotions, if you do not have your armor on, and if you aren't aware of the battle, you're not going to be victorious! Recognize that as Christians we are daily envolved in spiritual battles, that God calls us to fight in.

Second, the Bible tells us over and over to PRAY. Not just a heartless, memorized"God give me strength and bless this day," in the morning when you wake up, but genuine, constant, communication with God. (I'm not saying that prayer is wrong, or that God doesn't hear it, I'm just saying that it should be sincere, and constant throughout the day.)

Colossians 4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer. Eph. 6:18 And pray in the Spirit, on all occasions and with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind be alert, and always keep on praying.

And last of all, in order to triumph in our spiritual battle, we must submit to God. Therefore, submit yourselves then to God. Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. (James 4:6-7) We must constantly be completely submitted to God. Always doing His will, and what He disires, not what our flesh wants or desires. In order for God's power to be perfected in you. Yes, submission IS painful, but we are assured that the reward will be worth it: After you have suffered a little while(while fighting against the devil), the God of all grace will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. (1 Peter 5:10)

To be victorious in the silent battle, we must acknowledge that there is an enemy, put on the full armor of God, constantly be in prayer, and submit completely to God.

Fun and Cute Giveaway!

2010-01-12T13:54:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to let you all know that my mom is having an adorable giveaway on her blog! If you love babies, have baby siblings, or know somebody with a young child, check it out out www.arrowsprings.blogspot.com !!

Newest addition

2010-01-04T15:34:00.000-06:00

Our family's newest addition :)

Got any name ideas?

Amazing view

2009-12-26T10:36:00.000-06:00

It was a beautiful white Christmas where I live :) The view right outside my bedroom window is great!

I still have two more days of celebrating Christmas left, once with my mom's side of the family and the other with my dad's. I ate a lot yesterday, we had lots of yummy food. Then I went on an hour long walk/run this morning. It was soo refreshing, and watching the snow come down was amazing. To feel the sweat, and blood pumping vigorously through my body actually felt really good!!

How did your Christmas go? Did you have a white Christmas?

Christmas

2009-12-24T14:16:00.000-06:00

First I'm going to share this really cool devotional I read this morning, with you. I think it's really neat :)
"Accept the goodness of Jesus Christ. Abandon your own works and accept His. Stand before God in His name, not yours.
It's that easy? There was nothing easy about it at all. The cross was heavy. The blood was real. And the price was extravagant. it would have bankrupted you or me, so he paid it all for us. Call it simple. Call it a gift. But don't call it easy. Call it what it is. Call it grace."

That is pretty much what my Christmas post is this year. Today I've been thinking about all God has blessed me with. Even if I had nothing in the world to call my own except God's amazing grace He has given me, it would be sufficient. But instead He has lavished blessings upon blessings upon me. A fully functioning and healthy body. A big family. Abilities, talents. When I stop to think about it, I realize that I have absolutely no reason to be anything but thankful to God. He IS good.
1 John 3:1 How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!..Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when He appears we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.

What are your Christmas plans? This year my family will be celebrating Christmas for three days in a row. On Christmas day with our immediate family. The day after with my dad's side of the family. And the day after that with my mom's side of the family! It will be fun and tiring, and I'll probably gain about 100 pounds after three straight days of Christmas feasting..hehe, only kidding, I hope!!
To all my blog readers, have a very Merry Christmas, filled with joy, peace, unity and blessings!

P.S I just finished giving to an organization called Gospel for Asia. I gave chickens to a poor family in Asia. I bought gospel tracts for an Asian missionary to hand out. And instruments for a church in a very poor part of Asia. A local pastor gives the gifts to these people, and also shares the gospel of Jesus Christ to the recipients. It is soo fun! And these gifts literally change the lives of those who receive them! I encourage you to pray about doing this. There are gifts you can give that cost as little as $1, and many for $5, and up. This is a wonderful ministry.
The link is www.gfa.org/gift
I encourage you to find out that it truly IS more blessed to give than to receive this Christmas, be a helping hand to the poorest in Asia, and help raise them out of their poverty, one chicken at a time :)

Words of Wisdom Wednesday

2009-12-16T14:34:00.001-06:00

Today's quote subject: Joy
I think it goes perfect with the time of year it is, Christmastime and all. Joy is always a good subject though, regardless of the time of year. I can always use a little reminder to be joyful(not happy-happiness and joy are two different things) . It's so easy for me not to be joyful, but the more I think about the blessings God has lavished on me, I realize that it should be hard for me NOT to be joyful!
Here are the quotes:

"Joy is the feeling of grinning inside."

"Who is the happiest of men? He who values themerits of others and in their pleasure takes joy, even as though t'were his own."

" Joy is prayer-Joy is strength-Joy is love-Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls." (Mother Teresa)

"Joy is not in things, it is in us."

"
These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
(John 15:11)

"He who has not looked on sorrow does not know joy."

"A sense of humor..is a needed armor. Joy in one's heart, and some laughter on one's lips is a sign that the person deep down has a pretty good grasp of life."

"Joy is the best makeup."

"Joy is the holy fire that keeps our purpose warm and our intelligence aglow." (Helen Keller)

"Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day."

"Weeping may endure for the night but joy comes with the morning." (Psalms)

"In thy presence is fullness of joy." Psalm 16:11

"Nehemiah 8:10 - "Nehemiah said, 'Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.'"

One more :)

"Joy is the echo of God’s life in us."

Christmas Pics

2009-12-10T14:24:00.000-06:00

Although our family picture didn't turn out(it's really hard to get 13 people to ALL look at the camera and smile at the same time!!), so we'll have to re-take that, here are some of the family Christmas pictures for this year.
Me in beautiful company with my li'l sisters :)

Arik and Ayson

Akian

Andru

Toby(Alijah)

2009-12-07T14:00:00.000-06:00

I don't exalt my King enough. I don't praise Emmanuel often enough. I don't spend enough time at my Savior's feet. I don't bow my knees in raw, earnest prayer often enough. I don't give enough of my time serving others selflessly. I don't give enough money to the needy, instead of spending it on me. I don't plant enough seeds.
Those were the words I wrote in my journal last night.
The Holy Spirit brought a verse to my mind, immediately after I wrote it.
He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it. (Phil. 1:6)
I'm glad the master carpenter isn't through with me yet. Aren't you, too?

I'm back! New polls, playlist :)

2009-11-27T14:28:00.000-06:00

Well, to all of you who wondered if I fell of the face of the earth by not commenting, posting, e-mailing or ANY of that stuff for an entire week, please be assured, I am still here! Hehe, I'm actually kidding about the falling off of the face of the earth part..I don't think you would have missed me that much in just one teeny tiny week :)

Above is a picture my mom took of me while my family was on a "mini vacation" last week and weekend. I think the week spent with family and without internet was actually nice. But I did miss the computer.

Please go on and answer my new polls, as always, I love hearing from you, my awesome, faithful blog readers and followers!
I hope your Thanksgiving went as well as mine did!

What YOU think about Gratitude(Your answers)

2009-11-21T14:55:00.000-06:00

As promised, here are your answers! Thanks for commenting, this post wouldn't be possible if you wouldn't have shared your thoughts :) I am going to post two answers for each question. Please don't feel bad if I don't post yours, I thought all the answers contained biblical, great answers, but for the sake of space(and your eyes, time, and boredness levels!) I've decided to do this.
And, yes, I will begin posting my OWN photography picture to go along with my posts once I get home..for the last couple posts I haven't been able to be home to use the computer with all my pics on it.
**
Do you think gratitude is important? Explain your answer.

Rachel said: Yes, I think it's very important. It keep it all in perspective for me and that everything I have belongs to God and He has blessed me with it, so it helps keep my pride about myself or possessions etc. down. It also makes me realize how much I am blessed so I don't complain about all the things I want that I don't have. We should each be grateful for everything we have, whether a lot or a little. :) My family has had times of plenty and times of drought, but we always try to be grateful and thankful for all that God has and will do for us. It's not always easy, but we can always be thankful for who He is and our salvation if nothing else. ;)

The Author said: I do think gratitude is important for many reasons. One is that gratitude stems out of humbleness and respect, also out of Yirat HaShem, or fear of G-d, reverential fear. Gratitude also keeps you in a state where you are able to help others, and realize your blessings. Gratitude is also important because it adds beauty and richness to life.

What does Thanksgiving mean to you?
11 Arrows said: Remembrance of WHY we have Thanksgiving and what the first people who came here is of utmost importance to reflect on! It is a relationship with God that needs to be remembered and thankful for! Also the great things God has given us through family! Our country is going to suffer much if we don't turn back to our first love, GOD! We are already seeing many "issues" because we are running from God not running to Him! This year, let's remember those first Christians who came to this country and what they knew to be true! Jesus is the reason for gratitude!

Arianna said: My family and I, although we live in Europe, still celebrate Thanksgiving since we're Americans. We do the usual things; eating LOTS of food, spending time with friends and family, and having fun in general. But for me, I always take time to thank God for my many blessings; I have more than I can count! To me, Thanksgiving is a special day. It's an occasion where America becomes more grateful for what they have, even if it's for a singular day :)

When is it hardest for you to be grateful?
M at Hidden Valley Simplicity said: I find it hardest when we are struggling financially. Oh! Do I struggle in those weeks!

Arianna said: The people God puts in my life who I strongly dislike. I'll think, why should I be thankful for them? All they do is hurt my family and I, all they do is complain, all they do is gossip, and the list can go on. But along with important things like forgiveness, and charity, I'm also learning to be thankful for those annoying people ;)

What always prompts your heart to give thanks?
In company with sparkles said: I am thankful continually for God's grace, and particularly his great, surprising blessings this year. He is good =)

Hidden Valley Simplicity said: Seeing my husband walk through the door at night prompts is (I was single until the age of 30).

Watching my daughter prompts is (23 months of longing for her. Another 18 to try for her brother, who we lost this past summer). Every day is a miracle with her.

Sitting by my creek prompts it (such beauty, which my soul needs)

Praise and worship music prompts it (how can it not, when it ushers you before the King!?)

**
Amen, amen, amen! Thanks again, everyone for participating! I hope this post series is encouraging you and getting you ready for Thanksgiving, both the holiday, and the lifestyle :)

Part 2

2009-11-19T16:07:00.000-06:00

Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving. Psalm 100:2
Today I am going to be posting what the Bible says about gratitude, thankfulness, thanksgiving(not the holiday, although it can be relevant when celebrating the holiday), and giving thanks to God. I want you to know that this isn't just my opinion, it is what the Bible says. I don't ever want to teach or blog about something that contradicts the Bible, because it would not be valid. The Bible has soo many verses about this important subject, that I am discovering again, and sharing with you this week. I'm going to share a few of the many with you. Memorize them, pray them, think about them. No matter how good a blog post is, just by reading it you will not become a thankful person. It takes faith, prayer, trust in God and surrender. I hope that they encourage you!
Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe Hebrews 12:28
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17
You shall rejoice in all the good things the Lord your God has given to you and your household. Deut. 26:11
In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts…and be ye thankful.
Colossians 3:15 KJV
Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
2 Corinthians 9:15 NKJV
Enter his gates with thanksgiving, go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and bless his name.
Psalm 100:4 NLT
Those are all great verse, but I know it's one thing to read them, and another to live them. This is where I struggle. I've come to the conclusion that a grateful, thankful heart is a surrendered heart. A grateful attitude has a lot to do with obedience, as we've seen in the above verses. A heart that realizes how helpless and hopeless it was before God came along and lavished it with salvation, everlasting life, never ending love, and a future to look forward to. This doesn't mean that life will be a bed of roses, and that every moment you'll want to give thanks, because that's not true. The Bible doesn't promise an easy, comfortable life(in fact, it pretty much gurantees the opposite) but it does promise that if you draw near to God, He will draw near to you. It does promise that God will never leave you or forsake you. It doesn't promise that nothing can separate us from the love of God. This leads me to another point. Whenever you don't feel like being thankful or grateful, just take a few minutes, listen to a Christian song or hymn, think about Jesus and all he has done for you. Offer Him your everything, including your tempararily ungrateful, unthankful heart. He won't be offended. He'll take our ashes and turn them into beauty.

I'm learning that thankfulness really is a habit, I have to train myself to react in the correct way, it isn't always natural. Ingratitude is toxic, gratfulness brings joy and life to others around.

Today's questions :What prompts your heart to give thanks? Do you always offer up a quick prayer of thanks to God when you see a beautiful sunset, a newborn baby softly sleeping, or when you take a bite of pumpkin pie? And #2:Do you have a favorite verse that has to do with thankfulness, gratitude and a heart that gives thanks? It can be one that I listed :)
I have soo many answers to this question, but this is my "top" one :Whenever I see a sunrise or sunset, my heart just melts and I can't help but try to grasp the awesomeness and wonder of the God who created and loves me.

OK, before your eyes fall out because they're soo sore, I'll conclude this post! I'll leave you (once again) with a quote :
God gave you a gift of 86, 400 seconds today, have you used even one of them to say "thank you"?

Part 1

2009-11-18T13:39:00.001-06:00

Until Thanksgiving day, I'm going to be posting about gratitude and being thankful. I'm doing my best to make this series really interesting and understandable. I believe that this message needs to be taught and heard, because after searching the Bible and verses about this subject, I've confirmed that this is a REALLY important issue to God. And yes, I'll be happy to show you why in the following posts.
This is a difficult subject for me to post about, because..well, I'll be honest with you, I am not as grateful or as thankful as I should be, or as I want to be. And I hate posting about stuff that I find very hard to do myself. It almost seems hypocritical when that happens. I struggle with this, so I'll be taking this journey with you!

Until just about a week ago I thought of gratitude as an additional social grace. Like hospitality, right? Something that is good, but not really as important as the other Fruit of the Spirit and Christian virtues like love, faithfulness, and patience. Well, I was very wrong.

The other day I was listening to Joni Erickson Tada on the radio. You may or may not know her story, but to put it VERY simply, Joni was involved in a diving accident as a teenager that left her paralyzed from the neck down. She cannot use or feel her hands, feet, nothing except from the neck up. She has to depend on others for even the simplest things like feeding herself. Stuff that you and I take for granted every day. I thought to myself "Man, if anyone has an excuse to be ungrateful, it would be her!" But yet she is such a genuinely grateful, joyful person. When asked how she could be so thankful and joyful despite her disability, this is what she said, "I had to gradually get to the point where thankfulness in everything was a reflexive reaction, instead of my natural inclination to whine and complain."
There is a lot we can learn from that.

Gratitude is very important, and we'll be learning why it's so important to God in the following posts. How thankful a person is tells you a lot about that person. A grateful person is a wise person. Our level of gratitude shows our level of understanding of what God has done for us. Without Him and all the blessings He has lavished on us, we are absolutely nothing.

So today's question for my readers is this: When is it the hardest for you to be grateful?
It's only fair for me to answer this too, so I'll share my answer to this question. It is hardest for me to be grateful when things don't go MY way, when I don't get what I think I deserve. To put it more bluntly, it's hardest to be grateful when I'm thinking only of me.

In Part 2 I'll be posting about Ingratitude. The causes of it, the consequences of it, and what God says about it. This may be a convicting post, and may not be easy to swallow because it's going to be to-the-point and concise, I think it's the best way to handle it. And in the third post I will talk about how to reverse our habits of ungratefulness, and change our direction.

Now, I'll leave you with this question:
If tomorrow's supply depended on today's thanksgiving, what would we have tomorrow?

I need YOUR help!

2009-11-17T13:21:00.001-06:00

I'm going to be doing a special series(anywhere from 2-4 posts) of posts about the subject of Thanksgiving/Gratitude. I've been wanting to do this for a really long time, and I don't think there is any better time than Thanksgiving to talk about gratitude :)

These post aren't going to be your "normal" posts about gratitude(if there is such a thing). What I mean is I'm doing my best to make it original and interesting, covering a lot without making it to lengthy. My goal is to help YOU and ME realize the importance of giving thanks, and of having a genuinely grateful heart. But, I don't want us to just realize the importance, I want to give practical tips and advice to help us develop a habit of gratefulness in everything.

I need your help! This is the important part, and I would love it if you would take a couple minutes to participate in this. All you have to do is comment and answer these two questions. You don't have to try and leave a fancy, sophisticated answer, just be honest and tell me what you think. I will use some, or all of the comments in at least one of my posts :)

First question: Do you think gratitude is important? Briefly(or not so briefly, if you want) explain your answer.

Second question: If you are an American, what does the Holiday, Thanksgiving mean to you? Do you just celebrate the food, football, and fun times with your family, or is there something more? And if you're not American(which I know many of my readers are not, and this is totally okay!! Americans, you can answer this if you like, also) is there something(a rainbow, sunset, newborn baby) that prompts your heart to feel full of gratitude to God?

Okay, so now you have an idea of what I'll be covering in my future posts. Now, your job is to read the posts, enjoy(hopefully!) and comment(optional but encouraged!) :)

P.S Above is just one of my 13 family members that I am soo thankful for.

A little bit of everything!

2009-11-11T13:14:00.000-06:00

I have lots to include in my post today, probably enough for two posts :)

First of all, I want to thank my wonderful blogger friend, Emily. She is such a great encourager, blogger, commenter and friend who awarded me her favorite blogger award. You can check out her blog at http://www.writingsofasmalltowngirl.blogspot.com/ I love you to pieces, Emily!

I've gotten quite a few awards before, and I apologize if you have awarded me and I haven't posted about it or responded to it. Part of it is sometimes I'm not quite sure how to go about awarding people etc.. I think I'm gradually learning though.
Here are the rules:
1) Do a post about the person who awarded you, and their blog.
2) Give the award to 5 of your favorite blogs, give a reason, and leave a comment telling them they have been awarded.
3) Answer the 10 random questions.
4) Have Fun!!!!!

Okay, here are my favorite blogs. And again, please don't feel bad if I don't include yours. I'd include all the blogs I follow on my list, but I'm only allowed to post about five for this award. I follow many, many, MANY blogs, and I love them ALL!! I really do enjoy each one I follow, I definitely follow some of the awesomeST blogs in the world :) These are in no particular order, there's no way I could rank them like that.

1. Emily's blog. Such a breath of fresh air!! Emily always has such great ideas, is really creative, a fantastic writer, and is flourishing into such a wonderful godly young woman.

2. Moonshaw-One of my best friends and faithful e-mail buddy. Moonshaw always has something encouraging to say, and is genuinely loves and cares about people. I am soo blessed to have her as such a faithful friend. Her blog is fantastic, and the music on it is soo calm and relaxing! The link to her blog is http://dreamymaygirl.blogspot.com/

3. Earwen- My blogger friend with such strong convictions and absolute faith in her God, sometimes I find myself trying to emulate her. She is not afraid to stand firm on the Bible, she will post about what she believes in-regardless of that others may think/comment about- and it's obvious that this girl has real faith! The link to her blog is http://ahotheart.blogspot.com/

4. HIS daughter-Where do I even begin? His daughter is one of my sweetest, most friendly, caring online friends. She is such an example to me about living a life of purity and contentment, and I love how she is always asking if she can pray for me, it's soo great to know that I have friends that care enough about me to pray about even the smallest things in my life. The link to her blog is http://110surrendered.blogspot.com/

5. Arianna and Arielle's blogs are soo fun to read. They're both great writers, and I love the photography! Arianna is so original and real, her blog is encouraging and fun for me. And I could say the same about Arielles :) I couldn't post about one and not the other, and as they're sisters, I decided to just squeeze them in the same slot so I could include them both. I couldn't find the link to Arielle's, but this is the one to Arianna's http://www.arianna-elizabeth.blogspot.com/
1) Have you ever ridden an elephant? Nope, although I went to a circus a few years ago(I actually dislike circuses now, for different reasons) and could have ridden one..it would have cost like $25 for a ride around a pen..not worth it in my opinion.
2) Have you ever eaten squid? Noooo! I am a rather picky eater..I don't like the thought of eating certain animals..and other gooey, slimy, gross stuff.

3) What is something crazy you have done with your best friend? Oh my..where do I even begin with this one? I have a couple friends that I've known since I was three that I get SUPER crazy with. I've moved away and I only get to see them for about a week, once a year, but when we're together, super craziness happens. Last time we wore our hair in absolutely WEIRD hairdos, super high pigtails and lots of hairspray and wackiness!

4) Have you ever held an alligator? Yeah. But it was a tiny one that had a band around it's mouth, at a science center one time. It's not as exciting holding a tiny alligator when it's mouth clamped shut and it's so stinkin small, in my opinion :P
5) Have you ever let a snake slither through your fingers? With 8 brothers, what do you think?? Lol, yes, of course I have, snakes are cool!
6) What is your first and foremost dream in life? Hmm..I'd rather live a life following God's will than following my dreams. Although my heart yearns and everything in me(okay, almost everything;excepting my fleshly desire for a comfortable, safe life, which is both impossible and an unbiblical idea, and that I shun) wants to serve, help, bless, and bring the hope, and salvation of Jesus and the message of Christ to widows and orphans in the poorest parts of Mexico, Africa and other foreign countries.
7) What is your dream vacation? I'm not sure. I don't think I could spend that much money on an airplane ticket, food, a hotel etc. just for ME and MY pleasures. I'd rather give it to help persecuted Christian pastors, families and to provide for the basic needs of those starving on the other side of the world than spend 3-10 thousand on gratifying and pleasing my flesh, which I'm supposed to resist!
8) What is the funniest movie you have ever seen? Home videos of my family. We are a very hilarious family, and our hilariousness is natural, we don't TRY to be funny, we just are :)
9) What is your favorite song? This changes almost daily. And, I rarely have just one. Right now I'm working on Meditation from Thais on my violin(can you say "Difficult positions and vibrato"??!!), and even though I don't really like classical music too much, I really am enjoying this piece.
10) If you could change the world in one way, what would you do? Yikers! This is a hard one! First of all, I'd want to follow Jesus' command to go and make disciples, which would probably be by reaching thousands of orphan's, widows, and poor families ALL over the world for Christ. I don't know if that counts as "one way" but that's what I would do, and what I hope to do.

Phew!

I also wanted to direct ya'll to my mom's blog. She is going to start helping a new pro-life organization she will be in charge of a website and speaking in front of many young women. Pray that with God's help, she will impact many lives through this, and save unborn babies! Learn more, and continue to stay updated at her blog, http://www.arrowsprings.blogspot.com/ Be a follower, and comment on her blog :) Tell her that her LocaChica sent you!

Words of Wisdom..Thursday?

2009-11-05T09:35:00.000-06:00

Sorry it's a day late..had too much going on yesterday! This week's quotes are all by Winston Churchill :) I hope you enjoy! As always, feel free(and encouraged!) to comment away!

A fanatic is one who can't change his mind and won't change the subject.

A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.

Continuous effort - not strength or intelligence - is the key to unlocking our potential. Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.

If you have ten thousand regulations you destroy all respect for the law. It is more agreeable to have the power to give than to receive.

Kites rise highest against the wind - not with it.

My most brilliant achievement was my ability to be able to persuade my wife to marry me.

Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.

This is no time for ease and comfort. It is time to dare and endure.

We are masters of the unsaid words, but slaves of those we let slip out. (Okay, now THAT'S wisdom..if you ask me anyway!)

We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.

You can always count on Americans to do the right thing - after they've tried everything else.

You have enemies? Good. That means you've stood up for something, sometime in your life.

Have a fantastic, joyful, God-filled rest of the week and week-end!

P.S And for all of you who e-mail me, and those of you whose blogs I follow, I won't be commenting, e-mailing, or posting for a few days, probably. I'm going to be at a Republican convention(get to see and hear all the 2012 Republican presidential candidates, woohoo!!) and most likely won't have access to internet. I'll catch up as soon as I get back home! I guess the secret is out..yes, I am a die-hard, fanatical, conservative Republican, even though I'm technically not old enough to vote.

=) LocaChica :)

First Love

2009-11-03T13:27:00.000-06:00

“I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; 3 and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary." (Rev. 2:2-3)

To hear Jesus say those words to me would be amazing! As I was reading this chapter in the Bible last night I was like, "Wow! These people Jesus is addressing must be doing everything right!" That is, until I read the next verse..

"Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love."

What do you mean God?! You just said that these people are serving you, laboring for you, being patient, they haven't tolerated any false teachers or teachings, they haven't grown weary!

I found it amazing, and somewhat sad, that we can do all the right stuff, follow all God's commands, persevere for him, constantly be involved in His ministry, stand firm on His truths, help lead others to Him, even live a whole life of Christian service, yet at some point lose our first love.

God recognizes and is pleased with the "works, perseverance, and toil"(Rev. 2:2). I don't want you to think that following His commandments aren't important, because they are. But what God intensely longs for is our love. Have you lost your first love for God? Have you allowed anything, or various things in your life to suffocate the first love you had for God? It's soo easy to get caught up with serving Him, and doing good, Biblical things etc. and before we know it we've stopped truly loving Jesus. I'm not talking about empty words, or going through memorized motions in prayer and worship, I'm talking about pure, authentic, love for our Savior. Love like described in these verses:

You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. Deut. 6:5

And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’[a] This is the first commandment. (Mark 12:30)

‘And it shall be that if you earnestly obey My commandments which I command you today, to love the LORD your God and serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul. (Deut. 11:13)

Sitting at His feet, listening for His voice, worshipping Him with our whole heart.

Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.(Rev. 2:5)

Jesus said that even though these people were doing almost all the right things, following the Bible, persevering, patiently enduring or Christ, if they did not return to their first love and repent, he would have to remove their lampstand. This is powerful, serious stuff. But if you have lost your first love, if you want to love God more, and serve Him with ALL of you, He offers us, just like the church in Revelation, a chance to repent. He is waiting, wooing us, longing for us to come back to our first love for Him. Once we return and repent, He even attaches a promise, that To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God" (Rev. 2:7). He will welcome us back, and in return our lamp will eternally shine much sweeter and brighter for Him.

Hay-rack Ride :)

2009-10-30T14:48:00.000-05:00

Got to go on a hay-rack ride with my youth group, it was really fun!

Susanna and Heather

Josh, Adam, Austin, Isaac, Mr.Tanksley, Michael, and Selena

Kayleen

Rose(her and Tyler are doing an eating contest..hence the funny faces!), Me(with the "borrowed", crazy, "painter" hat.., Rose+Adria=goofy, crazy, teen trouble), Alexa, Isaac, Michael, Tyler

It was a lot of fun..I wasn't able to get very many pics, definitely didn't get one of everybody, and the quality isn't the greatest..but I hope you enjoy them anyway :)

Lyrycyst

2009-10-23T14:55:00.000-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0LcNkVQO4M

My grandmother took a couple of my siblings and I to see this wonderful music group in concert. It was one of the best concerts I've ever been to. The leader of this group, called, J.C is an incredible speaker. He claims that his music is his tool. His life story is amazing. He speaks with conviction, and love. He is a youth pastor, and if you have the privilege of meeting him in person, as I did, you won't be able to help but notice this guys passion and love for young people. He preaches the bible, but it's so saturated in love!

Listen to his life story(summed up in a very short time) here, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfIhnhsBXOk or for a little longer version, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0WLPqOoLZ0&feature=related

I understand if you do not like the style of his music..it's not for everyone. I do know that it has helped lead many teens to Christ. Lyrycyst believes that if he can reach kids where they're at, with music that they will listen to, except godly lyrics instead of sinful ones as they have been for so long, then many can be lead to Christ. I witnessed this happen, where many souls were saved, at one of his concerts. The words are unbelievable, if you listen to the whole song about his life story(What If I, is the name, it's on my playlist).

Loved the part where he said "I don't like to debate. After people hear my testimony, after they see who I was before, I want the change to be obvious." Reminds me of the quote, "Preach Jesus' name wherever you go, if necessary, use words."

His story and his music have touched me. It is proof that God truly can use ANYbody, and ANY circumstance, and make beauty from the ashes. It also made me think twice about how I would treat somebody like him in my life..would I just let him go, figuring that he was from too bad of a home to get saved, or was "beyond repair", or hopeless? Jesus wouldn't.
Nobody is EVER out of Christ's reach.

Little guy is growing!

2009-10-23T14:46:00.000-05:00

It's soo sad! Our little Ayson is getting soo big! It seems like just a few days ago he was born..but he is actually almost five months old! How time flies!

Update

2009-10-20T14:37:00.000-05:00

I have great news :) Austin's arm is just fine! Well..aside from being broken, and in a cast. But, as weird as it sounds, we're THANKFUL that it is JUST a cast! No nerve damage, which is an answer to prayer! Praise God!
It was Austin's birthday yesterday, so Happy Belated birthday, big bro :)
I also had a couple of other things I was going to mention in my post..but I'm having a brain freeze(one of those days..) so I guess when I remember, I will post about it.
Thanks for praying everyone, and have a blessed day!

2009-10-20T11:05:00.000-05:00

Hey blog readers, just wanted to let you know that I did a guest post for an awesome friend, Katy yesterday. The link is http://110surrendered.blogspot.com/2009/10/guest-post-1-singleness.html
Hope you enjoy it, and most importantly that the Holy Spirit uses it to speak to you.
I'll be posting later with an update about Austin's arm, and a couple other things, just don't have time now :)

Prayer Request

2009-10-17T09:43:00.000-05:00

Wednesday night my oldest brother, Austin, was participating in one of the games at our teen youth group, and he fell down and tried to catch himself with his right wrist. Well, he injured his wrist, and was in a lot of pain. As it was late, we thought it was probably a sprain and it could wait until morning to be seen by a doctor. By morning it was really bad..we pretty much knew he broke it. So, he went to the doctor. The news wasn't good. He broke it, but that's not what they're worried about. He also suffered nerve damaged, which could require surgery. We would appreciate your prayers. He goes to a hand specialist early Monday morning, pray that it all will go smoothly. We're concerned, but trusting in the Lord.
My family and I will be gone this weekend, so I won't be updating the blog or responding to e-mails, but please feel free to leave comments and e-mail me if you would like, I'll read them as soon as I return home :)
Thanks for your prayers everyone, and have a blessed weekend!
LocaChica

Quotes!

2009-10-13T17:07:00.000-05:00

My subject this week is Winter. I know, it's not winter yet, which is why I'll stick a few Autumn ones in too. It's actually not even a full month into Fall..but the weather is sure Winter-ish! You know how this time of year flies by, before we know it, it will be Thanksgiving, yikes!

As always, please(please, please, PLEASE!) leave comments, you know how much I love comments :) Tell me your favorite one(or ten), the funniest one, the cutest one, the weirdest one, what you think about the subject(Winter) this week, if you have any ideas for subjects next week, whatever you want to say(that is friendly and appropriate), say it via comment!

Okay, here are the quotes:

One of my current pet theories is that the winter is a kind of evangelist, more subtle than Billy Graham, of course, but of the same stuff.

Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home.

Winter is the season in which the people try to keep the house as warm as it was in the summer, when they complained about the heat.

Autumn is a second spring, when every leaf is a flower.

The color of springtime is in the flowers, the color of winter is in the imagination.

Autumn, the years last, lovliest smile.

Hope you enjoyed them!

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2009-10-08T11:25:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday, Mom :) You are the best mom in the world. Your love for your husband and children is obvious. Your love for God is real, and contagious. You do your best to raise your children in a godly and selfless way. You teach with your words and with your actions. You are a wonderful example of what a Christian mother and wife should be. Like every other parent in the world, you're not perfect, but the job of raising up a bold(and large, in your case!) army for God only requires for one to be perfect, God.

There are many opportunities during the day when you could choose to be selfish, and nobody would blame you for it, but you consistantly choose to serve, not to be served. You pour everything you have into your family. Joyfully. Selflessly. Lovingly. Beautifully.

As Proverbs 31 describes the virtuous wife and mother, you also strive to be the wise and resourceful woman described in the chapter. Your worth IS far above rubies. Your children ARE rising up and calling you blessed. Your family DOES appreciate you.

Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one's youth. Psalm 127:4

This is a birthday post for you, Mom. We want you to know that you are loved, appreciated and needed. Thank you for all that you do!

-Your 11 Arrows(Written by LocaChica)

2009-10-03T13:56:00.000-05:00

I'm back!!
It was super cold(I played at a big, outdoor gazebo) , and was raining when I first arrived. I was getting nervous when I was warming up and my bow fingers decided they were too cold to maintain the correct technique, and my other fingers didn't want to move fast enough across the fingerboard, I was very close to panic mode!

But, I took a deep breath, and began to play. I started with a waltz that was simple and not too fast, although it requires good technique and need I mention, VIBRATO?! In case you're not a violinist(as most of you aren't), let me inform you, vibrato is not easy to do when you're warm and relaxed.. let alone when you're nervous and having freezing, numb fingers!!! But guess what, everything went just fine :) I didn't make a mistake, which is always a good thing, and I did have fun. The audience enjoyed it, and my teacher even said I played it better than when we had practiced the last time. I was thanking God the whole drive home!

Thank you to all of you who prayed, your prayers are always appreciated!

To God alone be the glory!

Another Performance

2009-10-03T09:39:00.000-05:00

Please pray for me! I'm performing today(with my violin) and I'm pretty nervous. I'll be doing a half-hour performance solo, which kind of(okay, really!) scares me!

Pics from "mini" vacation

2009-10-01T13:15:00.000-05:00

This is how I spent my weekend :)

It's also why I haven't been blogging. Our family went on a little "mini" vacation. It was really fun and refreshing! The scenery was beautiful. We went fishing, played outside, had go-cart rides, oh it was a blast!

New Commandment

2009-09-25T13:51:00.000-05:00

During Jesus' final days before He was crucified He told His disciples, "Some of you will be rejected, some will be imprisoned, some will be killed. All of you will be persecuted."(see John 16:2) Doesn't that seem like such a strange departing message? That if they continued serving Him, following Him, doing His work after He was gone..they would be persecuted, hated, even killed?!
Jesus gave them words of instruction, too. He told them how to win others for Christ. How to touch the lives of others. How to lead others to Him. He had already told His disciples to go into all the world and preach the gospel. That they must depend on the Holy Spirit to change hearts. They already knew what they were supposed to do, and what to expect(persecution, hatred, rejection) but the new commandment told them how to.

He pretty much told them, "Now I give you a new commandment. If you obey this new commandment, everyone will know who you are. They'll know what you believe. They may hate you, they may call you radical and extreme. They may label you as a fanatic. They may even kill you, but they will know that you follow me."

The new commandment was:"A new commandment I give unto you that ye love one another;as I have loved you that ye also love one another."(John 13:34) Before I go on, please note that this is a commandment, not a suggestion, or even an option. If we truly love God, if we desire to see others saved, if we care at all about what the Bible says, then we will love.

There are many, many, many verses in the bible that talk about the importance and need for every Christian to have genuine and sincere love first for God, and then for others(which will come naturally, though perhaps not always as easily, if you really do love God). I'm only going to share a couple today for the sake of space. Colossians 3:14 "And over all the virtues, put on love, which binds them(the other virtues) all together in perfect unity."

Love is the most important thing we are called to do. All the ten commandments, all the other commandments, nearly the entire bible boils down to this one word. Love. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. Love your neighbor as yourself." This is what wins souls. This is what impacts lives. This is what God desires from His people. That we love.

Our lives need to be lives of love. We need to preach with our actions and labors of love, just as often(and probably more often) than we preach with our words. People respond to love. People desire for somebody to care, somebody to love them. Normally, people come to Christ because of the love they've seen on display in another Christians life. They are attracted to the selfless, godly love. Jesus stated that this kind of love alone will gain the attention, and eventually souls, of our hurting, sinful, lost generation.

We are commanded to not be idle. We are commanded to win souls for Christ(Matthew 18:19-20). Time is running out. There is not one moment that we can afford to not live in love.

Forsake your bitterness, anger, hatred, disunity, disrespect, and jealousy. Obey this commandment, that the unsaved may see and experience God's love through you. Through us.

"The day of the Lord's return will come like a thief in the night..let us put on faith and love..that together we may live with Him." (1 Thessalonians 5:2;8)

Smile-Words of Wisdom Wednesday

2009-09-19T11:39:00.000-05:00

Have you ever noticed the effect the one smile has? There can be a room full of grumpy, stressed out, touchy, rude people, and one cheerful person can walk in, smile, and change the entire mood. In every language, a smile means the same. God has created us humans uniquely, no other creature has the ability to smile. Solomon had it right on when he wrote in Proverbs 15:30 that "A cheerful look brings joy to the soul." I hope you enjoy these quotes, and that you always remember, to "rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice!" and don't forget to smile =)

A smile is the light in the window of your face that tells people you're at home.

A happy heart makes a face cheerful. (Proverbs 15:13)

“Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves.”

Before you put on a frown, make absolutely sure there are no smiles available.

Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been. (Mark Twain)

A cheerful heart is good medicine. (Proverbs 17:22)

If you smile when no one else is around, you really mean it.

I've never seen a smiling face that was not beautiful. (When I thought about this for a minute, it really is true! Whether it's the old, leathery, wrinkled skin of an old man, the carefree smile of a toddler, the toothless smile of an infant, if it's genuine, a smile makes any face beautiful.)

Wear a smile and have friends; wear a scowl and have wrinkles. (George Elliot)

Everytime you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing. (Mother Teresa)

If you would like to spoil the day for a grouch, give him a smile. (Hehe, I love that one!)

Life is like a mirror, we get the best results when we smile at it.

A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity into smiles. (Washington Irving)

One more!
Smile - sunshine is good for your teeth.

P.S The adorable photo(at beginning of post) is of my sweet little bro, Alijah. His smile is soo contagious!

A few random things..

2009-09-19T09:30:00.000-05:00

Good morning blog-readers!
Just a quick post today from my grandparents computer(hence the fish-they have no other pictures on their computer, and how could I ever publish a post without a pic to go along with it?!) because I have a few very important announcements to make.

1. I officially have 20 followers! Yippee! I remember a few months ago when I first started my blog I wondered if I'd ever even get 10 :) The reason I post on my blog is NOT to see how many followers I can get, or how popular my blog can become. That's not the reason at all. My blog is to be used to glorify God, to encourage other believers, (and occasionally to share some things going on with my family etc. for our relatives that don't live near to us, but mainly the first two reasons!). All that aside, I'm just happy that I have such a wonderful bunch of(20!!!!) followers =)

2. I have decided to do Words of Wisdom Wednesday every other week instead of every week. I only blog 1-3 times a week, and I think it works better if I just do the quotes every other week. Let me know what you think about this by voting in the poll(if you would like to see the quotes weekly, or not).

3. I just have to comment about the absolutely, gorgeously, BEAUTIFUL weather today where I live. The leaves are changing colors, and beginning to fall off, the air is fresh, crisp and sweet, but not chilly(yet) and the sky is blue with a few puffy, cotton ball clouds. On days like this I can't help but sing passionate song of praise to God(I know I should do this every day, on days like this the reminder is just so obvious though!), and smile up towards the sky at Him every time I step outside. These are my favorite kind of days!

4. I know that some Christians disagree/don't use The Message bible. I understand exactly where you're coming from, if you believe that way. I go to a Baptist(my family is NOT your typical hard-core baptists, in fact, we've been to almost every denomination there is, and don't allow the slight differences in beliefs and customs to sidetrack us from loving God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength and serving and loving His people) church where King James is the only version used. I read passages of scripture in different versions(even in a different language) to give me a better general understanding of some verses, but normally use NKJV or KJV. Today there was a verse that popped up on my screen from The Message bible, and whether you read the version or not, I think this is put beautifully, and is good advice for Christians, even though it is not a literal, exact translation. It sure convicted me!
James 2:4-17 Dear friends, do you think you'll get anywhere in this if you learn all the right words but never do anything? Does merely talking about faith indicate that a person really has it? For instance, you come upon an old friend dressed in rags and half-starved and say, "Good morning, friend! Be clothed in Christ! Be filled with the Holy Spirit!" and walk off without providing so much as a coat or a cup of soup—where does that get you? Isn't it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense?

Have a fantastic, joyful, blessed day in our Lord Jesus Christ. May God keep you, and bless you, and cause His face to shine upon you as you strive to love Him and serve Him with your everything.
I'm off to enjoy the beautiful weather!

What Do You Want to Be? Part 2

2009-09-18T11:07:00.000-05:00

Discovering what God's will for our lives is important. God has a unique plan and will for each person He has ever created. As Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are His workmanship, created in Jesus Christ for good works, which God prepared in advance for us to walk in." God has every detail of our lives planned, "prepared in advance." That means that there are specific people that God has prepared that YOU will influence for Him. God has specific words for YOU to say with YOUR voice that will speak wisdom, comfort, love, or truth when someone in your life desperately needs them. God has work designed especially for your hands to do. His huge jigsaw puzzle of all the things He has ordained to serve Him in this world is not complete without your(and my) "puzzle piece."

Discovering what God's will for your life as far as your career, family, etc. is important, but it isn't all we are called to do. We are called to act, to respond to God's call. Sometimes God speaks to people and reveals to them in detail how they are to serve Him. Other times He simply works things out gradually, calling the person to trust Him to reveal the specifics in His time. Sometimes He reveals to young children that He wants them to serve Him as a missionary(maybe even to a specific country), and other times He waits.

God has given us all talents and abilities. If you are musically talented, sing, play your instrument, write songs to glorify Him. If you love to study, and memorize things easily, use that ability to study and memorize the bible with all of your heart. If God has given you the ability to teach well, teach about Him, tell others about His love every chance that you get. 1 Corinthians 14:12 "Since we are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church." I'm not saying that all of us should be pastors, and missionaries. I'm only saying that often times if we exercise the gifts God has given us in His church, or serving others and leading them to Him, we will realize God's calling for us to serve Him with our whole life. He will give us opportunities to serve Him with what He has given us, therefore opening up doors to maybe meet future spouses, bosses, etc..

Finally, while you're waiting for the Lord to reveal to you His plan for your life, "Trust in Him with ALL your heart"(Proverbs 3:5), "Delight yourself in Him and His ways," and "Commit your ways to Him." Trusting that He does have a beautiful plan for you life and that as long as you're trusting Him and waiting on Him, serving Him obediently where He has you right now, this moment, you will be blessed. He will show you what He wants you to do, and He will guide you as you follow His lead.

I encourage you to read the book of Proverbs, it is abundant with wise verses to direct you in this area.
I'll share a few of my favorite verses about God's will and plan for us, found in Proverbs.

The heart of man plans his way,but the Lord establishes his steps. Proverbs 16:9

Many are the plans in the mind of a man,but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand. Proverbs 19:21

The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance,but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty. Proverbs 21:5

And a couple from other books of the bible as well.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:1 1

The counsel of the Lord stands forever,the plans of his heart to all generations. Psalm 33:11

Psalm 16:7-11 I will bless the LORD who has given me counsel; My heart also instructs me in the night seasons. 8 I have set the LORD always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. 9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope. 10 For You will not leave my soul in Sheol, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. 11 You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Please let me know what you think, and if you have any comments or verses to add, extra thoughts, etc. that you would like to add to this by leaving a comment, or if this post has helped you or encouraged you in any way. I love hearing your thoughts!

Funny Quotes

2009-09-09T13:42:00.000-05:00

Okay, I have to admit, this week's Words of Wisdom Wednesday, really has NOTHING to do with wisdom. Most of the quotes I'll be posting today are completely goofy and don't have any point except making you laugh. I promised I'd do a Words of Wisdom Wednesday post containing quotes to make you laugh(and even a picture to go with it!), so here it is!

I'd love it if you'd comment about your favorite one, or the one you thought was funniest etc.! Oh, and a warning : If you are feeling mature today(lol, this is going nowhere!) and aren't in the mood for this type of goofy, somewhat dumb, silliness, or think that these kind of posts are a waste of both the author's and the reader's time(in this case, I won't even argue that one!) I understand. You don't even have to read past here if you don't want to :)

"Why don't sheep shrink when it rains?"

"Time's fun when you're having flies." -Kermit the Frog (Hehe, so hilarious, when I was trying to type this I accidentally put "Time flys when you're having fun.)

"Flying is simple. You just throw yourself at the ground, and miss." -Douglas Adams

"Computers in the future may weigh no more than 1.5 tons."
(Popular Mechanics, forecasting the relentless march of science in 1949)

"Anyone who uses the phrase "easy as taking candy from a baby" has never tried taking candy from a baby."

"Pepsi brings your ancestors back from the grave."
(Ad slogan "Pepsi Comes Alive" as originally translated into Chinese)

"Gravity always wins." (For all the klutzs out there, this one is for us!)

"Wierd people are like chocolate cake... some people can't handle the richness"
-Kiki Bernat

Have you ever been in therapy? No? You should try it. It's like a really easy game show where the correct answer to every question is: "Because of my mother."

You know you are getting too old, when the candles cost more than the cake.

"If you pulled the wings off of a fly, would it still be called a fly, or would it be called a walk?"
-Marshall Bass

Why do they put braille dots on drive up ATM machines?
-Nick Featherman

Why do we park on driveways and drive on parkways?
-Thomas Cotter

There is a fine line between fishing and just standing on the shore like an idiot.

One more!

I told the doctor I broke my leg in two places. He told me to quit going to those places. - Henny Youngman

What do you want to be?

2009-09-04T14:05:00.000-05:00

So many times I hear the questions asked to a teenagers or a young people, "What do you want to do?", "What will you be studying in college?", "Are you even going to college?" there are so many that we so often get asked, and the normal answer? You guessed it, "I don't know."
I myself have been thinking a lot recently about what I want to "be". It can be a very tough question to answer, and one that deserves a lot of prayer and thought. Sometimes as an older teen we can feel like God has made known His plan to everyone else but us! It's easy to wonder i God even cares about what career we choose, or if He is involved. There are soo many questions and things to cover that I will be taking two posts to blog about this issue(I could probably even continue much after that).

If you've read my profile, you read that I would like to be a missionary to Mexico. I believe God would like me to serve Him in a different country, possibly many different countries, someday as a person who serves selflessly and spreads the message of Jesus Christ to many different people in many different places.
The other night as I was praying about what God wants me to do as an adult, where he wants me to serve Him at, and generally just trying to figure out at least some of the plan He has for my life, He asked me a very piercing, convicting question that I believe can be applied to many different things. He asked me, "Is it your passionate love for ME that has fueled your strong desire to be a missionary to Mexico, or is it your love for Mexicans that has fueled that desire?"
My reaction was something like, "Well God, you know that I love you and desire above everything that many souls be saved and that You alone receive all the glory." Which is entirely true, but I also knew at the moment that it didn't really answer the question.

You see, I love the spanish language, I love the Mexican people(I love all people, not just Mexicans, it's just that I have a unique, hard-to-explain soft-spot in my heart for the Mexican people), I love the Mexican culture, and I desire to bring many South American souls to Christ. That is all very good, don't get me wrong, it's just that it goes deeper that simply MY wants.
What the question did was it made me realize that it is God I am to be serving. I need to be willing to go and be a light for Him wherever, and to whoever HE chooses, not me.

I have enough faith and trust to believe that wherever God sends me, that He will also give me a love, desire, and passion for the people. All I must do is as Psalm 37 instructs me to do, which is to "Trust in the Lord and do good," to "Delight myself in Him", and trust that my desires will line up with His if I'm where I am supposed to be spiritually. And last but not least I must "Commit my ways to Him." We have a faithful God, and we can trust that just as the shepard cares more about getting the sheep to where they need to be than the sheep care about getting there, in the same way does God care much more about us and every detail of our life than we do, and there is no need to worry about our future. All we must do is simply trust, wait on the Lord, and obey.

It's a Dog's Post

2009-09-02T13:54:00.000-05:00

Once again, I apologize! It's been quite a while since my last post..... AGAIN!! I spent very, very, very little time on the computer during the entire 31 days of August(for a couple of different reasons). I thought it would be really hard, but it actually after the first 3-4 days I didn't think about it that much. It is nice to be blogging again though, I must admit :)

Today is Words of Wisdom Wednesday, but since I don't have any of my quotes or anything prepared, I'll have to post-pone my Words of Wisdom post.

This week has been another busy week for me, music lessons, new Wednesday night church classes(well, kinda new. We only go during the school year), schoolwork, baby-sitting, ahhhhh the list goes on and on. Oh well, at least I'm never bored :)The

Hopefully this weekend I'll get in a spiritual post. It's been a very long time, and I have practically a whole notebook worth of pre-written posts that I wrote(on paper, not online) during the month of August when I was hardly ever online.

These pictures are of me and my "giant" friends. They're actually just stray dogs(actually, they both have owners, just not ones that keep them home or pay much attention to them) that always come to my grandma's house when my family is there. They love playing with us kids. Me, being the big-dog-lover that I am, can hardly resist the big ol' fluffies. The white one doesn't look as big when it's laying down, but it's ENORMOUS when it stands up. It has to weight well over 100 pounds. He still wants to convince us that he's a lap dog though, he loves cuddles. Alright, alright, I'll stop this useless chatter :)

Have a fantastic week. Remember to be strong in the Lord, and trust in Him always! Oh, and here's a few dog quotes I thought you might enjoy. It is Wednesday, :-)

Have you ever walked into a room and forgotten why you walked in? I think that's how dogs live their lives.

A dog is the only thing on earth that will ever truly love you more than it loves itself.

I like pigs. Dogs look up to us, cats look down to us, and pigs treat us as equals. (C.S Lewis)

Cats are smarter than dogs. You could never get eight cats to pull a sled through the snow.

2009-07-29T16:08:00.000-05:00

I'm starting a new "thing."
It's called, "Words of Wisdom Wednesday." Every Wednesday I'm going to post(inspiring, wise, funny, uplifting etc.) quotes from different people, and sometimes from the bible as well. I may post one, or maybe 100(okay, I highly doubt I'll do 100..or even 10 for that matter in one day). Feel free to tell me what you think via a comment. I love comments!

Here is today's
The theme today is Randomness, I'm just posting a few quotes that I like, no consistent theme though :D

Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even when checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much. -Theodore Roosevelt

There are two kinds of people: those who say to God, "Thy will be done," and those to whom God says, "All right, then, have it your way." -C.S Lewis

Blessed are the Pure in Heart, for they shall see GOD. -Bible

If I am identified with my relationship, with my house, or with my money, I am doomed to suffer. -Guy Finley
One more!

Constantly choosing the lesser of two evils is still choosing evil. - Jerry Garcia

Hope you enjoyed them! Leave a comment and tell me which is your favorite :) Have a wonderful, blessed, marvelous day! SMILE :) :D :)

Oh, and P.S(hehe, can't believe I almost forgot..I promised I would do this today!! I sometimes wonder what'd it'd be like to be sane..) My mom was featured on the blog Titus 2 Women today. Check out her post by clicking on the At the Well blog button to your right >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

- Until next time, LocaChica

2009-07-22T09:32:00.000-05:00

Free audio book that you MUST read!

2009-07-21T13:40:00.000-05:00

I've just begin reading( or rather, listening to the audio addition) of a book called Crazy Love. I haven't even read the entire book yet, but what I've read so far is unbelievable. In a good way. The way this guy(Francis Chan, the author) puts things about God, and holiness, and so many other things, is incredible and challenging. This month you can download it for free, but time is running out. Ok, so here is the instructions to get your free audio book. Go to http://www.christianaudio.com/ and click on the little square box that says something like "Free download, Crazy Love" you'll know it when you see it, it's to the right of the screen. Follow all the instructions(I promise, it doesn't take long, it just SOUNDS complicated when I try to describe it, it's really not once you try to do it though, lol) and don't worry about the price or anything, because once you use the delightful(hehe, just had to use that adjective) coupon, the total will be ) 0.00 dollars. THE COUPON is Jul2009, you can't forget this part(thanks so, so much Violinist4Christ for noticing that I left out this very important detail the first time!)Download book. Listen to book. Let God speak to you through the book, and be sure to watch the short online videos for each chapter(at http://www.crazylovebook.com/ ) Tell me in a comment what you think about book. Tuh Duh!

P.s Post coming very soon about some topics that the book talks about. It gave me lots of ideas for posts.

P.p.s My little brother, Anden is having eye surgery very early Thursday morning. My family would appreciate your prayers, as any surgery has it's risks and extra stress etc. that comes along with it.

Ok, I'm done! Have a fantastically wonderful day everyone! Don't forget to smile, smile, smile :) :D :) :D :). Live, serve, love, and smile =)
Be blessed,
LocaChica

My Top Five Favorite Things to do with My Spare Time

2009-07-15T14:31:00.000-05:00

One of my blog buddies, Arielle Joy(the link for her post is http://amateur--reflection.blogspot.com/2009/07/my-top-5-things-i-do-in-my-spare-time.html), posted about her top five favorite things to do with her spare time. I was trying to think of something to blog about anyway, so I decided to be a copycat(I love blogging :) Even big sisters who are always copy-catted get to be the copiers for a change!) and post about the same topic. Enjoy!

1. Practice my violin, guitar, or piano. If I don't have one of the three instruments around, listening to music on my mp3(Jeremy Camp, Jimmy Needham, Jonny Diaz, David Klinkenberg, and Nicole C. Mullen are some of what my mp3 playlist consists of) will do.

2. Read. I love magazines, books, blog articles, newspapers, you name it. Some of my favorite things to read are my bible, Tennis magazine(yes I'm a little obsessed with tennis, I get my competitive spirit, and love for sports from my daddy!), Reader's Digest, books like Jesus Freaks, and Christian Fiction books, and most recently I've been reading some of the Women Of Faith books including Let Go, by Sheila Welsh.

3. Move. Whether it's playing tennis, basketball, softball, or swimming, doing gymnastics, or pilates, running, or walking dogs at the local animal shelter(always the biggest, and strongest ones, I absolutely LOVE huge, giant, independent, really hyper dogs!), I love to move and push my body to the limit. Another thing my family thinks is strange about me is I like to sweat, maybe it has something to do with why I like exercising and moving..who knows.

4. Laugh, or make somebody else laugh. If I'm with my mom grocery shopping, or doing any shopping, period(I HATE shopping, can't stand shopping in any way, shape, or form!!!!!!!!!!!!) I start to get a little goofy. My sisters and I joke, and laugh with each other a lot. My older brother will join in sometimes, he always knows just how to make me laugh. He makes this weird face whenever I'm stressed or just having a long day that makes me laugh every time, I call it his "Comical Face."

5. Be with people(unless I feel like being by myself, LOL). I think this comes from living in a big family and always having lots of people around. I love to hold a baby, or talk to my friends on the phone, play ball with my brothers, make my little brothers giggle by tickling them or playing with them, etc.. I love people! I do like my alone time too, though :)

If there were to be a sixth one it'd be:Being random. Which is probably obvious to you if you've been following my blog for a while, or if you know me personally. I'm always saying or doing random things, I'm an adventurous, random person. If I don't keep things interesting, I bore myself. I'm proud of my randomness :)
Have a great day ya'll, be blessed, and SMILE :D :) :D

LocaChica

2009-07-01T13:57:00.000-05:00

There's Akian. If you look to the right, you'll see the stuffed animal Ayden threw in the air at the exact moment the picture was taken. No, that's not a real robin(:D).

And here is Ayden, notice the glue on his eye, that's where he was hit in the head with a Wii remote(accidentally, of course), and had to get glued(instead of stitched, I guess it's what they do now) at the ER. Ah, there truly never is a dull moment in this family.

My lil' sis' and Andru, being held up by Austin because he thought he needed to be up high with his big sisters.

Austin even played with us yesterday, and even posed for a picture, so sweet :) And there's Alijah

I know I've really been slacking on my blogging lately. The best I've been doing is about once a week :O There is soo much change in our household. Our new baby #11, Ayson being the most drastic(but wonderful!) one. My posting has kind of been put on the back burner, so to speak, lately. The more things start to settle down and become a little more routine and "normal"(I hate that word!) again, I promise(except I don't promise) that I will try to start posting at least a couple times a week for ya'll.

As for my post today(above), are the pic's that we took at the park yesterday.

Oh, and a quick update on baby Ayson. He is doing well, his jaundice has been getting better, and he has gained a little weight. He is still as adorable as ever though :) As for his hearing, we'll find out more answers about that in a couple weeks, once he is one month old.

Have a great day everyone! I'll end the post with a bible verse that I read in devotions today.

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2

LocaChica

2009-06-18T10:18:00.000-05:00

That's Austin with little bro

Andru is a big brother now!

Dad's "It just hit me I have eight sons, seven of which are under 8 years old" face.

I love his hair! It's so dark and curly.

P.S I'll post updates later

2009-06-18T10:13:00.000-05:00

Here are pictures of the cutie!

With Arik

With Akian

This is all the pictures this post will allow me to put on, so I'll post another one :)

15 Things You Didn't Know About Me

2009-06-15T15:56:00.001-05:00

As requested by one of my friends(and partly because I'm not sure what else to blog about today), I will now list 15 things about me that you probably didn't know before reading this post.

1. I have an obsession with even numbers. I have to have an even amount of everything. Yesterday I made an even amount of cookies on each pan, and I always have to do an even amount of my daily push-ups and sit-ups.

2. I love twins! Twins fascinate me, and someday I would love to adopt identical twin girls from a different country.

3. Thanks to my sister, I'm good at gymnastics. I can do the splits both ways, a perfect cartwheel, a handstand, a back bend, a round off, and a handstand into a back bend, and then stand up. For the record, my sister is better than me at all of the above. It's not fair though, I'm 5'11, tall people are disadvantaged when it comes to doing gymnastics :P

4. I hate glass elevators. Last year I went to the principle building(or whatever it's called) in Des Moines, and it's like 50 stories high. The place I needed to go was on the 44th floor. I'm not kidding, I don't think I slept a wink the entire night out of fear that I would have to ride a glass elevator for that long.

5. My older brother and me both have dark brown hair and we're both tall. We've had many people ask if we're twins. I wish we were(see #2).

6. I won't eat anything sour, but I love any kind of chocolate.

7. I get car sick

8. My favorite movie is Prince Caspian. I like the movie Bella a lot too.

9. I want to speak 7 languages fluently, Portuguese, Italian, Spanish, English(can you believe it?!) Hebrew, Greek, and french. I have two of the seven(pretty much) mastered.

10. Grumpy amusement park employees really bother me.

11. I love big dogs. That is, unless I'm at the vet with my pregnant guinea pig, and a St. Bernard(that was later weighed and was a whopping 168 pounds) comes up and decides it would love to have a black abby guinea pig for breakfast.

12. I have the greatest family ever.

13. I have the greatest friends ever.

14. I love blogging. Alright, maybe this one was just a little, teeny, tiny bit obvious.

15. My friend Marissa who posted 200 things about herself has the patience of Job.

Oh, and that picture that I posted is a picture of my mom(yes she's pregnant in the picture!), and I at a womens conference with one of the popular speakers that was there. She was on some tv series like 20 years ago..but I forget her name. I"m absolutely terrible with names! It's Lisa something.. I think. As you know, I don't think any post is complete without a pic, and this is the first one I could find of me on mom's new(er) laptop.

-LocaChica

2009-06-10T16:58:00.000-05:00

I know that posting a recipe as my daily post is kinda cheating..but these are really, really good! I don't know if a lot of you like to bake or cook, so if you don't, you can just drool over the picture of the delicious cookies I made today, and come back tomorrow for a non-baking post :D I think I just noticed one of my little brothers took a tiny nibble out of that first cookie, I have about 8 guesses who did it, but I won't mention any names. Little stinkers!

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

*1/2 cup butter, margarine, or crisco

*1/2 cup vegetable oil

* 1/2 cup brown sugar

* 1/2 cup white sugar

*1 large egg

*1 tsp. vanilla(or the whole bottle, if you're a clutzy-type person, like me and accidently spill the whole thing)

*2 cups of flour

*1 tsp. baking soda

*2 tsp. cream of tarter

*1 cup of chocolate chips(you can use the whole bag, or just a few, depending on how chocolatey you like them)

Mix the first 6 ingredients with mixer : add remaining ingredients and mix with mixer again. Roll into teaspoon(or slightly bigger) sized balls. Put onto cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes. Do not overbake, otherwise they just don't turn out right. They're also super duper really yummyER if you bake them on a baking stone, which they take a little longer to bake on.

Another Update

2009-06-03T14:35:00.001-05:00

To make a VERY long story short, we are still waiting on the arrival of the new baby. I blogged Monday night, while mom was having contractions every couple minutes, and having all the classic signs of labor. Well, things started to slow down, and the doctors decided it was a bit to early for them to feel comfortable(or legally able) to induce mom. See, mom's water has only broke on it's own while she was in labor once out of all 10 of her pregnancies, so usually the doctors break her water when she goes into labor. They couldn't this time though, so mom is still dilated, but is at home now.
We would really appreciate your prayers, as she's very uncomfortable and not feeling well at all. We're waiting for her water to break. She was having some very strong contractions last night, but, her water didn't break so she stayed home. Things are chaotic in this house at the moment, but we know that this won't last forever, and before we know it, we'll have a new addition to our family.
If there is time later this afternoon, I'm going to try and take at least a few minutes to do some photography. My neighbor has an enormous flower garden in her yard and I can't wait to get out and take some pictures(she's given me permission, of course!)! Tomorrow I'll post pic's if there are any good ones :D
-LocaChica

New arrival coming very soon!

2009-06-01T20:29:00.000-05:00

This was the closest picture related to "family" that I could find on the computer.

Hello all! I'm going to give you an update on my family tonight. Normally I don't post too much about my family, I've noticed. Well, tonight, it won't be that way! This whole post is going to be about my family, including pictures. Because, of course, posts just aren't fun without pictures.

As many of you know, my mom is pregnant. She was originally due July 4, but because she has such big babies(I was 9 pounds 10 ounces at birth) they usually induce her at least a week early. This morning she didn't feel right, and she had a doctor's appointment anyway, so she went. The doctor said she was beginning to dilate, but since it's a month early, he sent her home to wait it out. A couple hours later, my mother who is VERY experienced in the area of birth and labor decided it was time to go to the hospital, the baby would be arriving soon. Of course, today had to be the day that my dad was out of town for business. Things always seem to happen that way, don't they.

My older brother and I were baby-sitting the younger kids today, and my two little sisters were at grandma's. I spent the entire afternoon giving "super-man" rides(just in case you don't have a clue what "super man" rides are, it's when my younger brothers, ranging from 20 pounds to 80 pounds, ride on my feet in the air, while I'm laying on my back with my legs out stretched towards the ceiling. *Note this is very good exercise!) and up-low, down-high fives(Alijah doesn't quite have his directions mastered yet..) reading books in voices strange enough to entertain six young boys, and "zooming" them, which is Arik's(the four year old) way of describing how I throw them up in the air and catch them. Yes, my brothers love it when I play rough, as you can probably tell. And yes, it's a really good exercise routine for me as well. But, trust me, it becomes very exhausting after about an hour. I did it for three hours today.

So, next time I blog, I will have a new sibling. #11 is officially on it's way. I'll keep you all updated, and if I can find a few spare moments to get away from the chaos that always surrounds our family(and I'm guessing most family's) after a baby is born, to tell you about my new sibling whom I already love so much! Or maybe I'll be so fascinated by the new life, and want to hold the baby and be with my family so much that I'll blog another time. Either way, I promise, you'll hear about things!

OK, I'm not really sure where this post is going, if anywhere. This is why I don't blog after 7 pm. Oh well. I'm going to go to bed now(not that I'll sleep or anything), as I'm guessing tomorrow will be a busy day. Until next time, this is LocaChicAGJ signing off.

This is Arik

And I guess I will have to wait until my next post to show you more pictures, I'm on our old pc which doesn't have barely any pictures, and it has no other recent ones exept this one of Arik. Arik, enjoy the spotlight all to yourself for tonight!

Success

2009-05-31T13:49:00.000-05:00

I'm always looking for inspiring poems, quotes, and things like that. I came across a poem today. It's about success, and it really made me think twice about what the word success means. What do I have to do to succeed? I know that to live a life pleasing to God, and serving others, with joy, love, patience, perseverance, and compassion is to succeed, but this poem puts it in beautiful words.

I hope this encourages you to be "successful" today.

What Is Success?

To laugh often and to laugh much;

To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children;

To earn the appreciation of honest critics, and to endure the betrayal of false friends;

To appreciate beauty;

To find the best in others;

To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition;

To know even one life breathed easier and smiled more because you have lived.

This is to have succeeded.

Spring Flowers

2009-05-28T11:39:00.000-05:00

Yesterday morning I was taking a short walk, just after it had rained, and I noticed some beautiful flowers covered in dew that were in our yard. I ran inside and got the camera, knowing it was a perfect opportunity to do a little photography, which I haven't done very much of this year, so far. These pictures are all pictures of flowers(suprise!) that I've taken over the past couple of weeks.

Enjoy!

I just had to add that one of my sisters and I, when I came across it while I was trying to find my other flower pics. Technically, we're not flowers, but my two sisters are just as beautiful as the prettiest flower. The one of us three girls was taken at tulip time, in Pella, a couple weeks ago.

Feel free to leave comments, I love hearing from the people who read my blog!

Rainbows and Praise

2009-05-12T13:24:00.001-05:00

I'm a total nature person, completely, 100% creation-lover! I have to say, out of all the things God has created, rainbows are my favorite. I love oceans, flowers, animals, and all that stuff too, but rainbows are my favorite.

Whenever I see a rainbow, I feel like it's God's little "I love you and still care about you" reminder, and I can't help but smile and try to soak up the beauty. I love the story of Noah, and the promise that comes with each rainbow, the symbol of God's faithfulness.

Recently I've really been struggling. I want to live a more holy, pure, obedient life. It seems like the harder I try, and the more righteousness I desire, the stronger my flesh seems and the more painful the darts from the enemy are. As I've been reading my bible and praying and earnestly, sincerely seeking God and His will for me, I feel so dirty. Icky. Sinful. I need soo much of God's grace, sometimes I wonder how He doesn't just give up on me and go find someone else with more self-control, patience, and compliance. I'm soo stubborn, I have to constantly battle my will because it's extremely strong and it has the potential to destroy me. I know that God has given me a persistent, persevering spirit, but it is to be used for Him and His purposes, not my unrighteous, sinful, foolish desires.

As I've been feeling so unworthy of God's love recently, and going through a pruning time at this point in my spiritual walk with God(see previous blog about pruning, if you haven't already), I've also been seeing things in a new way. I've been praying that God would give me a hunger and thirst for His righteous holy ways, and He has been! I'm experiencing His love and grace in new ways every day, and I find myself fleeing to God's arms many times a day. When I make a mistake, He never fails to be waiting with open arms, ready to forgive and forget, and offer me another chance to choose His path instead of mine.

As I was praying this weekend in my bedroom, I heard my siblings talking about a rainbow downstairs, and I heard the front door open and a whole bunch of "Look, look at the rainbow!" I opened my window, and sure enough, there was a beautiful rainbow stretching out across the entire sky. I stood there speechless. The grass was freshly watered, the sky was a blue-grey shade, with a few clouds in sight, and then there was the rainbow.

God whispered to my heart, "I still love you. I understand you're human, you make mistakes, and you are unworthy. That's why I died for you. That's why you need me. Continue to seek me and my ways, resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to me, and I will always be right by your side. Always run to me when you make a mistake or encounter a fork in the road, don't try to do anything in your own power, trust me and my plan. Remember always, I love you." I so needed that.

Yes, I have still been fighting my flesh, and at times I feel as if I'm losing the battle. I know that with God's help and in His power, I can overcome.

I'm in awe of the awesomeness and love of my Jesus. I can't begin to comprehend everything about Him, but I'm learning more and more every day. I'm more in love with Jesus and His ways than I ever have been in my life. I can't help but praise and worship Him. He is soo, soo good.

-LocaGJ

P.s, I cannot take any credit for the wonderful photo of the rainbow, mom gets it for that!

Jesus Freaks

2009-05-04T13:30:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry I haven't updated for a while. I really have been busy! I had a recital yesterday, I went to Women Of Faith on Friday and Saturday, and the rest of last week I was busy with schoolwork, practicing my instruments, pet-sitting, and baby-sitting.

So, anyway. I've decided I'm going to start something new on my blog. I've been reading a lot about martyrs, people who have truly given everything they have for Jesus. Reading Jesus Freaks(an amazing book, I don't cry much at all, but I found myself crying as I read each chapter. I definitely recommend purchasing this book!) and the stories of the people in there who weren't afraid to live their faith. I admire, respect, and honor people with such extreme love and faith for God. I want to be more like them.

Each Monday I'm going to post a new, true story of a person(I'll try to do as many stories of women as I do of men) who gave everything for Christ. I hope it touches your heart, and causes you to examine your faith, and how much you're willing to stand up and live for Jesus, regardless of the opposition or persecution you may face. This world is crying out for more people that will put Jesus before everything else. We need more Jesus freaks, will you heed the call?

Here is a true story of a Jesus Freak, named Ercan Sengul, the person I will write about for this week's Jesus Freak.

When Ercan Sengul committed his life to Christ in the Muslim nation of Turkey, some saw it as turning his back on his heritage and nation. When he said that he would do anything for God, he had meant it then. But what about now?

Ercan sat in a dark, dank prison cell surrounded my cell mates. He had been arrested by local police who said that he'd "insulted Islam" by distributing books for a Christian publisher.
Ercan cried out to God, begging to be rescued. He knew that he'd done nothing wrong and didn't deserve to be there. "you said you'd do anything for me." God whispered to Ercan's heart. "did you mean it?"
Broken before God, Ercan wept and worshipped. He told God in his heart, "I really mean it." Ercan began to preach three hours each day in prison. He learned that God allowed him to be imprisoned to give him a new mission field! ercan was in prison for thirty days until witnesses admitted that the police had pressured them to sign statements, and the judge found no evidence of any crime. The arrest had furthered Ercan't witness. Since his release, many who shared his cell have visited his church, asking about the God who gave him peace while locked in prison. Ercan still joyfully gives out christian books, knowing he could be arrested again, at any time.

Wow! When I read stories like that, I just can't imagine! The devotion and commitment, I pray that if I were in that same situation, that I would also "really mean it." I'm so blessed to be able to worship Jesus freely and openly, here in the U.S.A, but I know that it may not always be this way. I can pray without any fear of persecution or punishment. I have the privilege of owning not just one, but many bibles that I can read at any time I wish. There are many, many Christians in this world that would do almost anything to enjoy those simple privileges I take so much for granted.

I also thought of something else as I was reading that. I thought about how I have given my life to God, I've given Him permission to take it all, and to use me as He needs to. But, when I said that, suffering and persecution weren't exactly what I was thinking about. It is now. I realize that when I say I want to live for God, and live out my faith I do mean it, but how far am I willing to go? Will I turn and run, as soon as the first sign of pain, suffering, or persecution arises? Would I be willing to seek Him and see opportunities for growth and intimacy with God, even in a prison cell? I want to always go to Jesus, and pray and worship him EVEN if it means that I suffer for it. I want to tell others about the good news, even if it means I am rejected.

I'm learning that when I pray for God's perspective on persecution, I find the courage to be obedient-at all costs.

I urge you to ask yourself the questions above. Remember to pray for our brothers and sisters that are standing up for God today, even as they are persecuted and treated unfairly. Pray that they will continue to seek God, and follow Him at all costs. Then pray that you will have the courage and boldness to live for God in your everyday life with the same conviction and strength as people such as Ercan have and continue to do.

Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them,
and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body.Hebrews 13:3

(I wrote Ercan's story from the book by the same authors that wrote Jesus Freaks, the devotional is called Extreme Devotions, and I encourage you to buy it, it's for sale on Amazon for about ten dollars, let me tell you it's well worth it!)

Update on the baby bunnies!

2009-04-26T13:30:00.000-05:00

The baby bunnies are growing soo big. They're getting cuter by the day! Yesterday Alexa and I were outside playing with them in the grass, they are just irresistably adorable! Everytime we play with them in the yard at least one of our neighbors come over and ask to hold them, or they just stand there and watch the little cuties play and romp around. I hope you enjoy the pic's!

Oh yeah, if you wonder who the kitty is, that's Marley, the neighbor's cat, whenever we have the bunnies out, he is their body guard. He lays down, and watches for any intruders(although I'm not sure if he is waiting for the right moment to have them for dinner, or if he actually wants to "protect" them, it's cute nevertheless!).

Narnia Quiz

2009-04-20T16:30:00.000-05:00

I found a link for a Narnia Personality quiz, on another blog I was reading today. I decided to take it, just for fun. I was hoping I would be Susan, but I wasn't. I ended up liking the character I'm like even more than I would have Susan. The description actually describes me very well, here's what it is.

The picture of Jewel is to your right>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
"As Jewel, you are slightly stubborn and a tad head-strong, but you are valiant brave and daring. Admired for your free spirit and adventurism, you are the subject of much respect. "

Being bold, and strong-willed can be good at times, but I'm also learning to submit to my Heavenly Father's will for me and His word. His commands are more important than my feelings, and I'm learning how to put MY opinions and wants aside, and trust that will honor my obedience..even if I don't get that last word, or win every battle.

You can take the quiz(it's really fun!) at http://www.narniaquiz.com/ . I'd love to hear what Narnia character you are!

-GJ

2009-04-18T14:12:00.001-05:00

I read this quote today and it really inspired me. I've been thinking about the words a lot. Anyway, here's what I read:

Do It Anyway
By Mother Teresa
People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind,people may accuse you of selfish ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful,you will win some false friends and some true enemies;
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank,people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building,someone could destroy overnight.
Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness,they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today,people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have,and it may never be enough;
Give the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysisit is between you and God;
it was never between you and them anyway.

Storms

2009-04-17T13:49:00.000-05:00

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the almighty."
-Psalm 91:1

As you all are aware, it's springtime! The weather is warmer, and especially here in Iowa, it's raining and storming often. As the weather has been stormy and rainy where I live, my life has been busy, chaotic, and hectic for a while now too.

When I was a little girl, within a few seconds of the first thunder of a storm during the night, I'd be in my parents room. I'd race into their bedroom, as if the storm was going to eat me or something! My parents always offered me comfort and assurance, and I'd go back to bed and sleep peacefully, at least until the next storm.

I don't mind the thunder or rain that nature produces, I've grown out of that fear. I still fear and often despise the storms of this life. Some thunderstorms that could come could b e the death of a loved one, financial problems, or fear, anxiety, or anything else that causes me to want to run and hide to the nearest, safest shelter.

Usually at the first sign of a storm in my life, I'll run. Just not always to the right shelter, my Heavenly Father. I admit at times even during this past week that I know exactly what King David meant, and I've felt exactly how he felt when he wrote in the Psalms "Oh that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest! I would flee far away and stay in the desert. I would hurry to my place of shelter and from the tempest and storm."(Psalm 55:6-8).

God is teaching me that He is always right by my side. Although I can't always(and shouldn't ever) rely on my physical senses when it comes to God's presence and omnipotence. During the storms of life I must have faith, and I must trust that my Jesus knows precisely what's going on and my every need. It can be oh soo hard to trust, especially when the rain is pouring down. When the wind is howling, and the storm is crashing. It takes a lot of faith to remember and trust that the sOn is still above it all, shining and working even when my human eyes can't see it.

It helps to remember that not one drop can fall, not one storm can come, not without the Creator of the Universe's permission. Just as no trial can come our way before it gets past Jesus first. God will only allow storms to come our way if He knows that they'll make us stronger. It's during the hard times that we're more apt and willing to lean on Him. It's during those times that we're more likely to continue on with Jesus as our strength. It's during the storms of life that we have an amazing opportunity to be shown how massive God really is. How much He can do in our lives when we submit to Him. The depth of His never-ending love for us.

Storms can do two things. They can either harden us, or soften us. The difference is in which shelter we turn to . Self pity can be a shelter. Fear and worry can be a shelter we flee to. Isolation from others can also be a shelter. What we have to remember is, is that every other shelter except the Almighty Shelter, will crash to the ground. Eventually the shelters will perish because they can't resist and persist against the raging storms. When it's all said and done, every shelter but one will only leave us weaker and more exhausted.

If you find your shelter beneath our Savior's wings, then, and only then, will you be released from your burdens and pains. You will find rest, peace, joy, love, hope, and forgiveness when you make Him your shelter.

Beneath His wings alone you will find true freedom. Soon you'll find that those winds aren't as strong as they were. They are still blowing, but not enough to knock you of your feet. yes, the thunder may still be loud, but the Savior's voice will be even louder. The rain may still fall, but the flooding won't cause as much damage. Then will come the point when you'll look up and notice the sun again. Peeking through the clouds, you 'll be reminded that it was always there..just too high above you to be visible at times. As you continue to focus on the sOnlight, in utter amazement you'll glance forward and see beauty. A beautiful, breath-taking rainbow. No doubt, the days, months, and even years of trials of that storm will be worth just one moment of the beauty reflected from that rainbow. That's the beauty of grace. The opportunity in trials. The love more powerful than death that gave us both rainbows and the chance to start anew. That is the greatest, and most valuable thing in life.

I challenge you, when the storms come and they hit your life(I said "when," not "if." Nobody has been, is, or will ever be free from pain, hurt, fear, or any of the storms of this life) flee to Jesus' wings. Let Him be your refuge and strength. Find comfort in HIs arms. He'll carry your burdens if only you'll hand them over.

Lastly, after every Winter comes Spring. A seed buried and "dead" soon becomes a blooming flower. AFTER the storm comes the rainbow. After the brokenness comes wholeness and healing. No failure, obstacle, or sin is too final or strong that it can't be overcome by the grace of Jesus. No pain is great enough that it can't be healed by the miracle worker.

Sorry about the long post, but I feel somebody really needed that message today.

Until next time, LocaChicaGJ signing off!

2009-04-16T13:04:00.002-05:00

Last weekend my sister(Alexa's) rabbit had babies. I took some pictures of them yesterday, altough they didn't turn out too well because I was more interested in holding the cuddly, fuzzy things than I was on focusing on what I was doing with the camera!

Last year around Christmastime my(then)recently adopted guinea pig Bella, suprised me with a litter of pups. I thought those were the cutest baby animals God created, but I think baby bunnies definitely are up there on the cutest-baby-animal-list too!

Easter

2009-04-10T14:06:00.000-05:00

2009-04-10T13:37:00.000-05:00

This weekend I probably won't be blogging much, my family and I will be visiting my mom's side of the family for Easter this weekend which will be fun! It will be wonderful to see faces I haven't seen for a while, including my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. God has blessed me with a fantastic family!
I was thinking about the Easter story this morning, and during the past few days. Every time I read it, I cry. To think of all Jesus did for us, it's too much to grasp. I don't understand how or why He loves us THAT much, I may never understand, but I will always be grateful. He literally did everything, just so that He could be with US. That's how much He loves us. When I look at the sacrifice He gave for me, I can't do anything less than give Him my life. It seems so small, so tiny, barely anything compared to what the Creator of the universe did for me, but it's all I can give. I will praise God forever and ever! He is almighty, just, holy and love. When I think about all He did for me, I feel soo loved, so precious, so treasured. Not because of anything I've done, but because of everything my Jesus did for me! I want to shout His love, to sing about Him, I want everyone to experience this. I'm inspired, and reminded of my purpose. All I can say is God is soo good.
I've been growing and maturing a lot in my faith during the past week. I want there to be less and less of me, and more and more of Jesus. I want that to the point where when people see me or look into my eyes, or hear the words I speak, or see the things I do, I want them to say"There goes God's girl." I feel a burden for people's souls. I want to do more, soo much more for God. I want Him to look at me and smile. I want to serve Him, I want to follow Him. I don't care what others think, I don't care about anything but Jesus and serving Him. I'm far from where I would like to be, but by God's grace, I'm more mature and strong in my faith this Easter than I was last year. The Gardener is pruning me. He's clipping all the yucky, dirty weeds in my life. Sometimes the clipping is painful. It's always hard. Letting go, watching the weeds fall to the ground, it's humbling. Sometimes I want to snatch those weeds back! Hey, God, those are mine! Those make me comfortable, they make me feel safe, they help me fit in, I think of many excuses. I'm learning though that for every pruning job I allow Jesus to do on me, it gives me a chance to blossom and grow into something truly beautiful, both inside and out.
Today I was reading James(that book is almost scary! All the talk about taming the tongue and everything always leaves me feeling convicted!) and it was talking about submitting to God. Something that for me can be hard. I want to hold on to parts of me that aren't godly, holy or pure. I want to do things my way. Definitely pruning time. Then James was talking about drawing near to God, something that I don't mind doing, as long as it's on my time. Clip, clip. How is it that I can spend hours on the computer without a complaint, but to deliberately take just ONE hour out of my day to spend praying and studying God's word can take a lot of self-control and discipline? This command also comes with a promise though. It says if we will draw near to God, then He will draw near to us. What a promise that is! No matter how hard it is to set aside my Jesus time, I haven't once left my time with Him and not felt better, more peaceful, joyful, patient, gentle, loved, forgiven, and encouraged.
I encourage you today, let God do some pruning. Allow Him to clip off the branches in your life that are dead. Let Him take away those weeds. Yes, it's hard! Those weeds are a part of you! They may have been growing for quite a while now. Beloved, what this Gardener offers you is a chance to start fresh, to start new again. What a blessing! Someday where now you only see a stump of branch that has been freshly pruned, someday it will be a blossoming, beautiful, fruit-producing flower! Submit to God today, give Him your everything(remember the 100% thing?) and I promise you that He will not leave you empty or disappointed. Draw near to Him, and He will draw near to you. Wash your hands, purify your heart.
-LocaChica

Let God take care of your dreams

2009-04-08T14:16:00.000-05:00

Hello again! It's my second post, hopefully this will come more naturally and be much more organized than my first!
I'm still working on my website, getting my music on and all my pictures and everything. It's actually fun, but it's also VERY time consuming(especially for someone who barely knows anything about websites and computers, and all electronic related stuff, like me!)!
Today I heard a song I just absolutely loved, on the radio. I hadn't heard it before, at least not until this morning. It was by Nicole C. Mullen, and it is called There Is Still A Dream. The words are inspiring, true, and fun to listen to. Nicole has such an amazing voice, everything song she sings is soaked with passion, talent, and a raw, pure love for God. I don't believe the album is out yet, but once it comes out I recommend that you listen to it.
In the song she talks about this dream. About all christians (and all the people of the world) singing for God with all their hearts, as one congregation. About the body of Christ living in Harmony, serving God and others as one body, with one leader, God. She sings about making a difference, and living for God and the special, unique dreams He gives all of His children. It really spoke to me this morning. I realized that the dreams in my heart aren't just there to be ignored, or for me to assume that they're impossible, and therefore give up on chasing them before even beginning to. No! God gives us all specific, unique, and equally wonderful dreams and passions. He will work out all the details, and He will do all the stuff you can't. You must allow Him to take control though.
Your dreams are hand-picked, and specially designed for YOU! The amazing thing about God-given dreams is that you don't have to be anyone besides yourself to achieve them, God will be everything that you can't be! Your dream also is important to God and to other people, if you're doing it with the right heart and intentions, you will be blessed as you're blessing other people by using your gifts, abilities, and talents for God, which, ultimately is also for others.
Most people that know me well would tell you that I'm a big dreamer! I dream of being a musician, an author, a missionary and evangelist, a wife and mother, and many other things too! I have dreams and ambitions that God gave me, but I understand that I won't be able to do everything I want to do, because for a dreamer like me, unless I'm dreaming, that would be impossible! When I dream soo many dreams, sometimes I think it is God's way of preparing my mind, and giving me a glimpse of what my new body and abilities will be like in heaven! Right now I'm focusing on being a good steward of the gifts, talents, and abilities God has given me, and I'll leave the mountain moving, and people-convincing to God, I know that He is beyond sufficient, and more than fully capable!
I hear other kids my age talk about how they don't know what they want to "be" as an adult, or what job they would like to have etc., and I'm soo glad that God has captured my heart at such a young age, and His desires for me are now my desires! I'm soo blessed to have soo many christian friends and family members that encourage me and come alongside me as I continue to blossom into the person God created me to be. Sometimes I wonder..before the world was ever made, before anything but God existed, when He thought of me, what first came to His mind? That's what I want to be. I'm not sure what His plan is for my life, and I have no idea what my future will be like here on earth. I do know that I trust Jesus, and that I am loved by Him. That when He looks at me He sees beauty, righteousness, and purity. Not because of anything I've done, but EVERYTHING because of what He has done for me! He bought me with a price, and He has a plan for my life. He wants to use me, and mold me, and continue to re-shape me into His image. This is what He wants for everyone, the question is, will we allow Him to?
As I heard a pastor say this week, "God doesn't care about your ability as much as He cares about your availability" that is very true. Even if I were the best, most talented, beautiful(speaking "earthly" language) and "successful" person on this planet, but I chose to cram God in, and only serve Him on Sundays, and only give Him certain parts of my life, I may as well just completely let go, and choose one side or the other to leave God out of everything! And, I'm learning that when I give Him my everything, I never become empty! He gives free, unlimited refills of strength, hope, encouragement, joy, peace, those are just the beginning!
We all need God. God made us with a hole in our heart that only He can fill. We can attempt to fill it by trying other things, but until we choose to leave everything and follow Him 100%, we'll always feel like something is missing, because something is.
Never forget, no matter how good other things of this world seem, you will always be safest in God's hands, and when God is holding the reins to your life. Dreams are wonderful, they're given by God, and they are not to be ignored, or shoved aside. But, as long as you are obeying God and doing His will. As long as you choose to take up your cross daily and give Him control(something that I struggle with very often!) you will find that those false dreams, that seemed so exciting and fun, won't seem as appealing anymore. You will find that the genuine dreams will line up with the bible, and that the closer you draw to God, the closer He will come near to you. Before you know it, you'll look at your life and say "This is what I always dreamed of. This is what true life is all about."
I don't want you to think that life will just be a bed of roses, and all of your wonderful dreams will be fulfilled if you'll just trust God, and rub the magic genie. Not at all. I'm just sharing what LocaChica is learning herself, and hopefully this will speak to someone out there. I hope that it encourages you all to trust God, give Him your everything, and pray about everything. Don't give up on your God given dreams, and remember that all things are possible with God! Just make sure that you never leave those last two words("with God") out!

Until next time, may Jesus bless you! Have a great day, and yes, get used to me telling you, SMILE! Enjoy life the way it is now, God has you where you are for a devine reason, for a purpose! Even if you don't understand your circumstances, or just plain don't like them, I encourage you to praise God still, today, NOW! Do something for someone else, you'll be surprised at the joy it will bring you!

-LocaChica

(Yes, that photo is one I took! Tell me what you think! You'll be seeing more of my photography in the future!)

2009-04-05T15:57:00.000-05:00

This is my first time posting. It's very strange that sitting down to type such a simple post seems so daunting. Today I'll keep my first post short and simple, tomorrow I'll try to come up with a longer, and little more sophisticated(if I can even do that word!) entry.
I love writing and I am able to express myself very well(both in english and spanish!) with a pencil and paper, but for some reason as soon as I sit down to type, the words just don't come as easy. Hopefully it will just take a few times for me to get used to this blogging thing. I've actually posted a few times before on my mom's blog(she does much better blogging than I do! You can visit her blog at arrowsprings.blogspot.com) and my friends and some other people actually liked it and found my entry about photography interesting. A couple of my friends finally talked me into starting my own website. Bear with me, hopefully I'll get this whole thing down soon!

Until tomorrow, have a blessed day and remember to smile!

=) -Loca Chica
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