i am not

Festivus!

2011-12-21T12:41:00.005-05:00

This past weekend I joined some wonderful friends to celebrate the Christmas season. We have started a new tradition called "Festivus" and this was our second year of celebration. Last year was complete with Timballo, a reading of "Humphrey's First Christmas" and a very entertaining white elephant gift exchange. This year was much the same. We ate way too much good food (timballo, goat cheese and caramelized onion appetizers, fatties a.k.a meat stuffed with hash browns/cheese/grits, raspberry chipotle cheese and crackers, winter spiced cupcakes, and chocolate egg nog), had a reading of Humphrey, a white elephant gift exchange and a viewing of a Muppet Christmas Carol.

There's nothing better then spending an evening with good friends. It's even better when the food is delicious. I'm so thankful for these friends... dare I say "family"... that I get to share life with.

Merry Christmas!

Winter Spice Cupcakes with Cinnamon Rum Frosting

2011-12-21T12:17:00.006-05:00

I recently gathered with some friends to celebrate the Christmas season with our annual "Festivus" party. Below are the cupcakes that we decided to make this year. They are wonderfully spicy and a nice change from the traditional gingerbread. The cardamom and coriander are complimented by the orange zest. Ours were made with unsulphured molasses but I imagine the pomegranate molasses would add another layer of warm, wintery flavor. The frosting needed a little love - make sure the butter is soft and that you make it fluffy before you start adding anything in.

Winter Spice Cupcakes

Makes about 34-36 mini cupcakes

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon freshly ground cardamom
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground coriander seed
Pinch of salt
Zest from 1 orange
2 oz (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
1⁄4 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup pomegranate molasses, available at gourmet or Middle Eastern food stores (or substitute unsulphured molasses)
1/2 cup boiling water

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare muffin pan with nonstick spray or paper cups.
2. Sift together the flour, baking soda, spices, salt and orange zest.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter until fluffy. Add the sugar, and beat until fluffy again, scraping sides of bowl.
4. Add the egg and molasses, beat well. Carefully stir in the boiling water until the mixture is smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients,stirring to incorporate after each addition.
6. Fill the muffin cups three-quarters. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Source: http://www.larkcrafts.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Winter-Spice-Cupcakes-with-Snowflakes.pdf

Cinnamon Rum Frosting

Makes enough to frost the 36 mini cupcakes with some leftovers

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 tablespoon dark rum (Sailor Jerry's is our favorite)
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
a pinch of salt
milk, as needed to thin

1. In a medium bowl, sift together confectioners’ sugar and cinnamon.
2. Using an electric or stand mixer, cream butter until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add rum and pinch of salt and mix until combined.
3. Add confectioners’ sugar mixture, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well between additions. Continue to beat until light and fluffy. If frosting is too thick, add a bit of milk to thin it out (start with a teaspoon at a time). If too thin, add more sugar and continue to beat until it is the right consistency. Spoon into a piping bag or just slather it right onto the cupcakes.

Source: http://ladolcivita.blogspot.com/2009/11/pumpkin-spice-cupcakes-with-cinnamon.html

Book Review: Enemies of the Heart

2011-12-01T07:31:00.004-05:00

Enemies of the Heart:

Breaking Free from the Four Emotions That Control You

by Andy Stanley

A while back I read a brief overview of this book that Stanley had included in a Catalyst newsletter. I quickly realized this was a book that I wanted and needed to read so I jumped at the opportunity to review this book. And since I've attended North Point Community Church on and off over the last decade, I knew this book will be filled with hard truths and practical, Biblical advice for how to make positive changes.

The book addresses what Stanley suggests are the four main enemies of the heart: guilt, anger, greed and jealousy. He explores each of these emotional forces that can lead to a debt/debtor relationships that is destructive. He then offers practical wisdom for how to break free and have healthier relationships. Readers also have access to a discussion guide that is helpful for processing the difficult truths within this book, either individually or with a group.

I found this to be a great read filled with challenging words. It's written in a very conversational, almost sermon-like way that is easy to follow yet not preachy. And it's a good balance of scripture and practical advice and application.

*I received this book free from Multnomah Books as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own*

Book Review: A Year with Jesus

2011-12-01T07:00:00.006-05:00

A Year with Jesus
Daily Readings and Reflections on Jesus' Own Words
by R. P. Nettelhorst

I am always on the hunt for new devotionals and books to help me focus more on Scripture each day. I thought that a book whose tag line was "Daily Readings and Reflections on Jesus' Own Words" would be a good book to choose. Thus far I have not been disappointed.

A Year with Jesus is a daily devotional that provides Scripture, specifically words spoken by Jesus in the Bible, and life application each day. The book itself is divided into sections that focus on specific themes: Love and Hate, Truths and Lies, Arrogance and Humility, Friends and Enemies, Belief and Disbelief, Patience and Impatience, Deserved and Undeserved, Good and Evil, Fidelity and Treachery, and Life and Death. The scriptures in those sections deal with the themes as does the practical application.

The daily reads are quite reasonable in length, about a page. The days aren't numbered according to the calendar date so you can jump around to sections that might be of more interest to you in a particular season of life, which I enjoy. And the writer chooses to use various translations of the Bible which lends different perspective to the same truths in Jesus' words. Overall, I like the devotional and think it's the perfect way to start the day.

I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review; the opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Curried Butternut Squash Soup

2011-10-24T09:11:00.002-04:00

This past weekend I got to spend quality time with dear friends... and inevitably this involved making lots of great food. We tried this recipe for Curried Butternut Squash Soup by Ellie Krieger. It was delicious and you should try it too!

Ingredients
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 medium onion, chopped (about 2 cups)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (2 1/2-pound) butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons curry powder
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more, to taste
2 tablespoons honey
4 teaspoons plain low-fat yogurt, for garnish

Directions
Heat oil over medium heat in a 6-quart stockpot. Add onions and garlic and saute until soft but not brown, about 6 to 7 minutes. Add the butternut squash, broth, curry powder and salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until squash is tender, about 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat stir in honey and puree with an immersion blender or in batches in a blender until smooth. Season with salt, to taste.

Ladle into serving bowls and add a dollop of yogurt.

Book Review: Stained Glass Hearts

2011-10-20T08:06:00.003-04:00

Stained Glass Hearts:

Seeing Life from a Broken Perspective
by Patsy Clairmont

I read the title of this book and immediately loved the image that I had in my head of broken pieces being welded together to form a beautiful picture reflecting all sorts of bright colors. I wanted to love this book but I honestly was not inspired in the way I hoped I would be. I've heard great things about Patsy Clairmont from friends who have attended the Women of Faith conferences. But I think her thoughts come across better in a public speaking format versus a written format. This book is a collection of her stories which she pieces together to reflect various parts of her "stained glass heart". Her chapters are full of humorous tales as well as little nuggets of wisdom, though I was hoping for a little more substance and a little less anecdote. For a Bible Study I think it was lacking in the practical application side of things. Though the suggestions for art, literature, and even YouTube videos to watch was a welcome addition to this book. It was a quick read but again, but not necessarily one I'd recommend to a friend who was struggling to see beauty in their own brokenness. Clairmont really does a great job in affirming someone who's already figured out how to be healed from past suffering. Unfortunately, this just wasn't such a memorable book for me.

I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review; the opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Book Review: Inside Threat

2011-10-13T07:10:00.006-04:00

Inside Threat (A Riley Covington Thriller)
by Jason Elam and Steve Yohn

I've finally made the leap into Christian fiction. I generally read all sort of books but always worried that this genre might be a little too cheesy for my liking. But I do love thrillers and anything having to do with special forces teams fighting terrorists. So, I guess it shouldn't be a big surprise that I chose this to be the first Christian fiction I'd read.

Inside Threat is the fourth book in a series about the main character, Riley Covington, a football star turned special forces operative turned back to a "American Hero" football star. The book is set a short time into the future after a terrorist attach on the U.S. rendered NYC unlivable. While playing professional football once again, Covington is torn between his current world and the one he walked away from. Throughout the story he is questioning why it seems his friends are all pursuing the things they love and were made to do while he struggles each day with that same question. In a matter of hours his world is tossed upside down and he finds that the person he loves most is hostage in the middle of a terrorist attack. By the end of the book, Covington finally understands his life's purpose.

I actually enjoyed this book and would definitely consider reading other books in the series. I think this book is up there with any of the mainstream thriller type books of the same vain. I appreciate that this one doesn't have bad language or racy scenes, while clearly pointing readers to the gospel message. The authors struck a good balance. I would definitely recommend this series of books and hope there is more to come from Elam and Yohn.

I received a copy of this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their Tyndale Blog Network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Saying Goodbye

2011-08-15T07:27:00.002-04:00

I do not love saying good bye to people. But the unfortunate reality of my involvement with Young Life and specifically the camping side of the ministry is that goodbye's happen all too frequently. People are part of the ministry for a season. Some seasons tend to last a little longer but the leaving part seems to be inevitable. I've been around Sharptop for quite a few years now and have been pretty invested in camp the last 3 summers. For better or for worse, this group accepted me into their family and I loved them all dearly. And the realization that this Sunday was the last time I'd see all of their faces together at camp made me really sad. I'm so excited for what is next in all of their lives but selfishly I'll miss seeing them every weekend. I'll miss the walks up the hill or to pioneer, dates on the rocking chair, moving tarps and easy-ups, watching welcomes from the bear den deck, folding shirts in the store and so many other great things about summer at camp. But mostly I'm going to miss the people and all the sweet conversations that happened while doing all of those things I just mentioned. That is what made this summer and this past year truly great. The people. The relationships. And the things that connected us all together - Jesus.

So because I hate to say "good bye" I'll just say "see you soon" STC interns. You'll always have a place to stay when you come visit.

Birthday!

2011-08-04T08:30:00.003-04:00

Another birthday has come and gone. Where do the days go, anyway?

My dear friends had a pizza party for me. We grilled pizzas and topped them with our favorite fixings. We drank good beer. Ate lots of yummy orange creamsicle cupcakes filled with vanilla ice cream and vanilla cupcakes with vanilla butter cream. And most importantly, had great conversation filled with laughter.

I had to work on my actual birthday but since my hard drive crashed at work I didn't have to go into the office. I worked from up at Sharptop and got to spend the evening with some of my favorite interns. I also got to witness "the night that never ends" at camp which includes tableau, outdoor BBQ meal (my favorite... except for the oppressive Georgia heat), opera, square dance and miner's midway. It was totally worth the late night and exhaustion at work the next day.

Book Review: The Final Hour

2011-08-04T07:26:00.002-04:00

The Final Hour

by Andrew Klavan

When it comes to books, I have a love for all things FBI/CIA/counter-terrorism. I generally enjoy all types of thriller or suspense novels, so I was excited when this one came in the mail. It's the fourth book in Klavan's Homelander Series about a teenager named Charlie West. He's your average high school kid who woke up one day wanted by the police for murder and being hunted by terrorists. His memory, once lost, returns with a not so pleasant realization: he knows where the terrorists will strike next. But he's stuck in prison fighting against ruthless prison gangs and guards. Maybe not so average after all.

I appreciate young adult novels that are well-written and really engage younger readers. Klavan addresses issues relevant to our world today that maybe young adults wouldn't be so inclined to think about. And he does it in a way that makes you want to stay up just a little longer to read just one more page, even if some of the scenarios are a little far fetched for a teenage boy. It's a great summer read when you're sitting by the pool or on the beach, especially if you like the suspense novels as I do.

Bringing light to the lies

2011-07-22T10:13:00.004-04:00

I read this today. God's word is so perfect and His faithfulness astounds me.

Isaiah 41:8-10

“But you, Israel, my servant,
Jacob, whom I have chosen,
you descendants of Abraham my friend,
I took you from the ends of the earth,
from its farthest corners I called you.
I said, ‘You are my servant’;
I have chosen you and have not rejected you.
So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

I want to know this truth in my heart and not just in my head. He has gone to the ends of the earth in pursuit of me (even though I'm a broken, hot mess), he chose me (I'm not rejected!) and he has called me to be his servant (what a privilege to serve the living God!). He promises to strengthen me, help me, and hold me up. So, why do I doubt? Why do I continually seek to find this acceptance from other people? Why don't I live in his love and grace?

Track #21 - Beauty of the Cross

2011-07-21T07:14:00.002-04:00

I heard this song not too long ago and it's been stuck in my head ever since, especially the chorus lyrics. I am completely unworthy of his love and desperately need his grace, and it's exactly what is offered. It's truly beautiful... and it blows my mind.

Beauty of the Cross
by Jonny Diaz

At the cross I find the beauty of Your matchless grace
At the cross I see a King who died to take my place
It's the moment that You made me clean and pardoned my soul
Amazing grace that I would be allowed unto Your throne
Not by my own will but solely by Your will alone
I'm unworthy of this love you have shown to me
I see my desperate need

[Chorus]
The beauty of the cross is that there's One who has redeemed my soul
Beauty of the cross is that I'm finally free and letting go
Beauty of the cross is that Your grace has found me just as I am

Not by my own works that I may boast or I may come
But simply through your Son the sinless and Exalted One
Only through the cross that I'm made clean to draw near to you
Saved so that you would receive all glory due Your name
Everlasting God from age to age you never change
A true love story remains for all eternity
That all the world would see

My sinful soul could only be
Redeemed by the blood of a sinless King
So you came to the world that You had made
Conquered sin on the cross and You rose from the grave

That's the beauty of the cross

Summertime

2011-07-20T07:04:00.003-04:00

I can't believe that it's already the middle (and almost end) of July. The summer is flying by too quickly! I've taken a few short trips (NY twice, Orlando twice) but have spent most of the summer working during the week and helping out at Sharptop on the weekends. I love that I have the opportunity to be a part of YL summer camp. There is something incredible about watching high school kids commit to following Christ each week. It never gets old. And honestly, it gives me a better perspective and attitude as I head back into my normal work week. I don't ever want to lose sight of the power of the Gospel or the great need that we all have for it. And it doesn't hurt to start and end my week living in a community that is sold on the same mission and serving the same God with me. It's a glimpse of what I think real life is supposed to be, before I have to head back into the reality that is my daily life of work.

Book Review: Untamed

2011-07-14T07:41:00.004-04:00

Untamed:

How the Wild Side of Jesus Frees Us to Live and Love with Abandon

by Lisa Harper

Sometimes I have a hard time getting excited about these types of "if you really knew Jesus you'd be free" books, but I've heard good things about Lisa Harper's books and figured it was worth a shot. While this book didn't offer anything earth shattering to me, it definitely gave me a new perspective on many of the old stories that I've grown up reading about Jesus. Harper is a great storyteller and she engages the reader with her culturally relevant discourse. It was easy to imagine what it would have been like to sit at the last supper with Jesus or to be sitting with Jesus when he called the disciples to follow him. Each chapter points to a different "Wild Way of Jesus" that she clearly explains and then allows the reader time for reflection. Although this was the most theologically challenging book, I believe it would be great for a young women's small group/Bible study. Harper makes Jesus relatable and the questions she poses at the end of each chapter would be a great starting point for conversation. It is definitely worth the time to read.

Book Review: God's Love Letters to You

2011-07-14T07:07:00.003-04:00

God's Love Letters to You:
A 40-Day Devotional Experience
by Larry Crab

I am always on the hunt for new devotionals that might offer a fresh perspective on the Bible or maybe speak to this season of my life. I read another book by Larry Crab not too long ago which I enjoyed and had heard about his book "66 Love Letters". When I saw that he had written a devotional based on that book I thought it would be worth a read. And with a tag line "the goal? to lose our story in His" I thought I found the perfect book. Unfortunately this book fell quite short of that goal. In theory, you'd spend 40 days reading about God's great love for us as told through His word. But I guess trying to condense into 40 pages something that you couldn't capture in an entire book is really an insurmountable task even for the most gifted writers. Maybe my expectations were a little too high. Though I expect a devotional to be rooted in scripture. This book was not. I also expect that the writer would point you to places in the Scripture where you can dig a little deeper. this was also not the case with this book. I actually found nothing challenging or encouraging about reading through this. In fact, it was a big waste of time. I'm not sure I could even think of an audience that would benefit from reading this. Truly unfortunate. I think he should stick to writing books, not devotionals.

Track #20 - At Your Name

2011-07-12T08:45:00.003-04:00

At Your Name
by Tim Hughes, Phil Wickham

At Your name, mountains shake and crumble
At Your name, the oceans roll and tumble
At Your name, angels will bow
The earth will rejoice, Your people cry out

Lord of all the earth we'll shout Your name, shout Your name
Filling up the skies with endless praise, endless praise
YAHWEH, YAHWEH
We love to shout Your name, O Lord

At Your name, the morning breaks in glory
At Your name, creation sings Your story
At Your name, angels will bow
The earth will rejoice, Your people cry out

Lord of all the earth we'll shout Your name, shout Your name
Filling up the skies with endless praise, endless praise
YAHWEH! YAHWEH
We love to shout Your name, O Lord

We love to shout Your name, O Lord

At Your name, angels will bow
The earth will rejoice, Your people cry out

Forever I will love You
Always I will love You
Forever I will love You
You have won my heart

I will sing for You

Lemony Spinach Pesto

2011-06-22T14:29:00.003-04:00

My mom and I threw together this pesto the other night and I can’t get enough of it! Unfortunately I'm not certain where the original recipe came from. It’s the perfect accompaniment to pasta on a hot day. The lemon and garlic balance the spinach and pasta very well. Did I mention its finishes in the time it takes to cook a pot of fettuccine noodles? You should try it!

Lemony Spinach Pesto

Ingredients:
1 box (10 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
1-2 cloves garlic
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
1 lemon, juice and zest
¼-1/3 cup toasted walnuts
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup water
Kosher salt, to taste
12 oz fettuccine noodles

Directions:
1. Cook pasta according to package direction
2. Mix together spinach, garlic, cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice and walnuts in a food processor until it forms a paste. Start off with half a lemon zest and juice and add more to taste.
3. On low speed, stream in olive oil and water until combined. Add in salt to taste.
4. Mix pesto mixture with pasta. Sprinkle with some extra Parmesan cheese and serve.

Book Review: Jesus, My Father, the CIA, and Me

2011-06-21T19:33:00.004-04:00

Jesus, My Father, the CIA, and Me: A Memoir of Sorts
by: Ian Morgan Cron

Have you ever read a story and felt that the author was telling your life story? Well this could have been my story. If someone was ever able to put into words my feelings about family and what initially drew me to Jesus, Ian Cron has done it. Cron is a gifted storyteller who has a way of making you laugh and cry all in the same page. Though his life was wrought with heartbreak and abuse, he finds a way to honor the story of his life while pointing the reader to a Jesus who is in the business of redeeming broken things.

Cron makes talks about his life growing up with a father who was emotionally and often times physically absent from his life. His father worked on and off for the CIA, was an alcoholic and incapable of showing love to his son. Cron spent his life searching for ways to be accepted and loved by others. But the real story is about a God that pursued him through it all. Though every season of his life, every up and down, there are glimpses of a God that loves like no person could ever be capable of loving.

My favorite part of reading this story was realizing that every story deserves to be told. And when I think about all the experiences that make up my life story, it becomes so evident that the same God who relentlessly pursued Cron has done the same for me. And is continuing to call out to me in the details. Sometimes I just forget to stop and embrace it.

Road Trip: Lake Champion Edition

2011-06-08T07:26:00.002-04:00

I recently returned from a whirlwind trip to NY to visit family and to visit some of my favorite people at Lake Champion. I wish I could adequately describe my love for these dear friends of mine and a place that will always feel like coming home. I spent 3 summers as a waterfront intern managing lifeguard summer staff and driving boats. I lived in a house with 16 or 17 other people and built community like nothing I have experienced since. To say these summers were challenging would be an understatement, but some strong pillars in my faith were established during my time at Champion. I try to return each year to visit friends and enjoy some sweet time with Jesus while sitting on the lake. I'm so thankful I was able to return this year and spend some quality time with friends. My favorite part is that it feels as though I see these folks everyday. The depth of conversation, the level of trust and honesty, and the encouragement I receive is something completely inexplicable to me. Maybe that is exactly why I love this place so much - it's holy ground. The Spirit is moving in this place and my friends there have some of the most awe-inspiring faith. They aren't perfect. Life there isn't perfect. But they've figured out how to support each other through the hard times and rejoice with one another in the good times. And they are running hard after Christ and encouraging each other to run down that same road.

Book Review: Unleashed

2011-05-31T14:20:00.005-04:00

Unleashed: Release the Untamed Faith Within

by: Erwin McManus

A few years ago a friend recommended I read The Barbarian Way by Erwin McManus. I got the book, read the first chapter and either lost interest or the book or maybe both. I'm not certain. When I received a copy of Unleashed in the mail I was a little surprised that it was just an update to the original book without much change to the content. But the subtitle spurred me on to actually read through the entire book and give it a second chance.

The title sort of conjures up images of Braveheart. Who doesn't want to be a little wild or crazy when it comes to faith? Especially when faith and religion generally conjure up images of stuffy old pastors and a congregation of people dressed in Sunday best not daring to step out of line. In his book, McManus is arguing against faith that has become too civilized in favor of a more adventurous and radical faith. One that calls a person to choose things that put them outside of their comfort zone and doing the very thing they are most passionate about. He challenges each person to overcome those things they fear most which he argues wouldn't even exist if we ultimately feared God and God alone, then we wouldn't be bound by any other fears (fear of failure, rejection, insignificance, death, etc). For McManus, the "barbarian way" is a living a life of love, passion, intimacy and sacrifice and is made alive by the presence of Christ. He challenges the reader to choose to listen to God's voice and calling, to be a little bit radical and choose to follow Christ's example of living on the edge.

In general I appreciate the premise of the book and most of what McManus has to say. He uses personal stories from his life and his daughter's to illustrate his points. I just found myself getting a little bogged down in his words. Even though it was a short book it was still difficult to get through. It's an interesting read and falls in line with a lot of the thinking of many of today's leading pastors and authors.

I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review; the opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Margaritaville... in Jasper

2011-05-27T11:38:00.005-04:00

This past week the gracious hosts, the Sigs, had a gathering of friends to celebrate summer Jimmy Buffett style. Jimmy was playing a show in Atlanta but due to the cost of tickets and it being a Tuesday night, the Sigs decided to host a party at their home instead that would be family-friendly and give camp staff another excuse to get together. There were burgers, boozy cupcakes and of course Margaritas. It was a great night spent with great friends and even included a live feed of the concert. I'm pretty certain I had a better seat than anyone at the actual concert. I definitely had better company and food and didn't have to spend the $80+ for a ticket. I'd say that was a successful night, indeed!

Book Review: Game Plan for Life

2011-05-27T09:22:00.001-04:00

Game Plan for Life
by Joe Gibbs

I have always thought that you can learn a lot from another person's story - both their triumphs and failures - so I thought Game Plan for Life would be an interesting read from 3-time Super Bowl champ and NASCAR champ, Joe Gibbs. A success in the world's eyes, I was interested to hear what he would have to say about being successful in God's eyes.

Gibb's starts off the book by sharing with the reader his own story of triumph and failure. He then goes on to discuss some of the tougher questions that men (and women) struggle with including Finances, Health, Relationships, Vocation, The Bible, Creation, God, Sin and Addiction, Salvation, Purpose, and Heaven. Gibb's introduces each chapter then recruits an "expert" to give the practical application. His team includes authors Ravi Zacharias, Chuck Colson and Randy Alcorn, among others.

Though not necessarily an avid sports fan, I found the book to be relatively easy to read even if it was geared more towards men. Gibb's seems to open about both triumphs and failures, showing that often more can be learned through the struggles of life than the successes. I also appreciated his use of expert resources rather than just relying entirely on his own ideas about God, finances, etc. I'll probably pass this along to one of my football-loving guy friends.

I received a copy of this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their Tyndale Blog Network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Hebrews 2:14-18

2011-05-20T12:41:00.001-04:00

Hebrews 2:14-18

Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham’s descendants. For this reason he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

My Prayer

2011-05-19T12:13:00.002-04:00

I am praying

To be surrounded by people who love and encourage me well
That Christ would be apparent in those around me
To submit to His calling on my life
To have strength and courage to keep pursuing His plans for me
To be humbled before the Lord, knowing He will lift me up in due time
To be patient, waiting on His perfect timing
That my faith would be strengthened as He tries my patience
That I would find fullness of joy in His presence

Amen.

Learning to Let Go

2011-05-17T07:36:00.003-04:00

I've been learning a little bit recently about holding onto things a little too tightly. I have a hard time giving up control of things, I'll admit. Sometimes it's easier than others - when it's a project at work I am not that invested in, for instance. But in my day to day life, I'd like to think I have control over what happens. The reality is that I do not. And I try desperately to hold on to the things I have the least control over. So I'm learning to let go. Not necessarily because I want to, but sometimes that choice is not mine to make. Sometimes those things are taken away and there is nothing I can do about it. Sometimes God blesses us with things and sometimes he takes them away. I'm learning that I need to cling tightly to the God who loves me rather than the "things" in my life. It's hard. I fail, often. But I'm reminded time and time again that letting go is what is best for me and ultimately glorifies God most. And really, that's what it is all about anyway. His name and renown are the desire of my heart (Is 26:8)

Saying Goodbye

2011-05-11T07:13:00.004-04:00

Being involved in Young Life as long as I have been, you'd think I'd be used to the "goodbyes" that are an inevitable part of working with this ministry, especially the property side of the ministry. Staff are frequently moving around to begin leading ministry in other cities or moving to other properties. Unfortunately, knowing that these transitions are unavoidable does not make them any easier. On Tuesday evening I went up to Jasper to join many friends in sending off another camp staff. Dan, the operations manager, accepted a job with a ministry called FOCUS and will be managing a property on Martha's Vineyard. As friends gathered together, we shared some of our favorite memories of Dan and his family. Some were funny stories as Dan was always making people laugh or throwing balls at them or playing practical jokes. But most of the stories were about how much Dan and his wife had impacted lives. They are greatly respected by all who had the honor of knowing them. Like so many others I learned about leadership and about seeking God's wisdom in all areas of my life. I was challenged by Dan and encouraged to consider the ways God has gifted me and where my passions line up with God's calling on my life. I'm so thankful for the ways I was loved well by both Dan and his wife.

I'll never forget the first weekend I ever really worked with Dan at camp. It was the first weekend I ever hosted and was going through training with Kevin and Courson, who was really responsible for most of our training. On Saturday evening Dan took over the training from Courson. One of the jobs we had was to turn off all the lights on camp for the 20 minutes of quiet time after club on Saturday night. I remember Dan asking if Kevin and I had any idea where the lights were because he wasn't certain he even remembered where they all were. I'm still not entirely sure how serious he was being, but knowing Dan, he probably didn't really remember. We were walking around the vintage cabins turning off the time switches for the lights which were located in the basements of the buildings. In one building, you have to walk around the stairs and much to both Kevin and Dan's surprise there were a mass of dear heads staring back at them in the dark. I have never laughed so hard hearing two men screaming like girls. It really set the stage for the rest of our time together - filled with laughter and awkward and funny moments working together. And also a great respect for a leader who saw potential in everyone and chose to push us to be the best he knew we could be.

Jump Rope and Tag

2011-05-06T11:39:00.002-04:00

Every week I try to get together with my dear friend Emily and her 4 little ones. This week, despite a stressful work day and exhaustion, I went over to their home for dinner. I was definitely a little grumpy when I first arrived and was looking forward to getting some time outside and maybe some exercise to help relieve the stress. Because there are 4 little ones it's difficult to go on a walk or run so Em and I decided to run around the yard which is pretty large and has hills. We ended the run with jumping rope. Well as soon as we got the ropes out the kiddos wanted to join the fun. It was so fun watching them learn to jump rope by themselves and double dutch. Watching a 2 year try to understand the concept of turning a rope or even trying to jump over it in a rhythm was incredibly sweet and entertaining. Since it was getting close to dinner time at this point, I stayed out with the kids while Emily went to cook dinner. We played a combination of tag and hide and seek for a good 30-45 minutes. Needless to say I was exhausted but my heart was full. It was so sweet spending the afternoon with little ones who love to learn new things and are full of imagination. The night ended with coffee and a wonderfully challenging conversation. I'm so thankful for the time I get to spend with this family. It is exactly what I needed.

Road Trip: Nashville Edition

2011-05-02T08:29:00.003-04:00

I recently returned from a trip to Nashville. I really enjoy the city and wish I made more of an effort to visit more frequently. The last trip I took there was about 2 years ago... almost to the day. This trip was work related but we still had opportunity to eat at some great restaurants. We stayed next to Vanderbilt and within walking distance of the shops and restaurants in Hillsboro Village. This is home to one of my favorite coffee shops: Bongo Java's Fido. The theme is dogs and even the menu includes drink offerings named after all things dog related, including my favorite drink, the hot dog. The hot dog, if you are wondering, is coffee with a splash of milk, chocolate sauce, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg and absolutely delicious hot or cold. There is also a great bookstore nearby but it was closed by the time I was able to get there after working.

Part of our meetings where downtown. Our hosts took us to Puckett's Grocery and Restaurant. I had a BBQ sandwich with sweet potato fries and it was delicious! We ate at another restaurant called tayst where all the food is local. It's a cool concept for a restaurant but the food wasn't anything special. Well, at least my meal wasn't anything to write home about. I love that Nashville is working hard to sustain the local, independent restaurant scene. All of the restaurants we visited are part of Nashville Originals. A great concept and way to preserve the small-town feel of Nashville.

For dessert we chose some places that were entirely local, but still tasty. We had frozen yogurt from Sweet CeCe's. One of those self serve fro-yo places where you choose the toppings. I've never seen so many delicious toppings including about 8 different kinds of cereal. We also got cupcakes from GiGi's Cupcakes. I got a White Midnight Madness cupcake which was a dark chocolate cupcake with a cream cheese frosting. The cake itself was good but I didn't love the frosting. It was definitely lacking the tang of the cream cheese and had entirely too much butter/sugar for my taste. I'll stick to my own cupcakes and save myself the $3.

I definitely enjoyed eating at new restaurants and getting to walk around a great city. Our hotel was across from the Parthenon which was great for a long walk after all the tasty food we ate!

He is Risen...

2011-05-02T08:28:00.005-04:00

...He is risen, indeed!

Let me just start by saying I love celebrating Easter weekend and the reminder of the God's great gift and sacrifice that was Jesus' death on the cross. I'm thankful for the reminder that God's love is so much greater than anything I can comprehend.

I spent this Easter in Atlanta celebrating the weekend with family and friends. On Friday night I was out in Conyers with my old Young Life friends for a Good Friday worship service. The service was led some very talented friends of mine. It was so special to worship with people I consider my family (this designation was especially true in college when I spent most of my time living life with these people). We stayed around the church for a long while after just chatting and catching up with one another. Around 10:30 we finally decided we should move the party to a restaurant and get some food. It was a tough choice between Waffle House and Frontera. Chips and salsa won. We stayed until they pretty much kicked us out.

Saturday was spent with my friend Anne's family who was in town from the west coast. It involved a delicious birthday lunch for her sister and a sweet time of conversation. I've only met her parents one other time when I was out in California for her wedding and stayed with her parents, but I can honestly say I feel like I'm part of the family. It was so wonderful to see them!

On Sunday I attended an Easter service at a new church near where I live. The worship was good and the sermon, at the time, seemed pretty good but I honestly couldn't tell you now what the pastor talked about. It had something to do with the gardener being the first to see Jesus and how we usually gloss right over that part. He tied it back to Genesis and the creation story, which is something I'm not sure I had really ever considered or heard before. I wish I could remember the details! The rest of the day was spent with my sister just hanging around the house. It was a much needed restful day.

Book Review: The Jesus Inquest

2011-04-18T07:44:00.005-04:00

The Jesus Inquest:

The Case For and Against the Resurrection of the Christ

by: Charles Foster

I think at some point or another we have all questioned what we believe and what is truth. Growing up in Christian schools and the church I have both questioned and been around those who question the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While many argue that you must accept on faith those events recorded in the Bible or simply accept the Bible as truth without further discussion, I have always wanted to know more. In "The Jesus Inquest", Charles Foster attempts to tackle this difficult topic. Treating this as a mock trial, he presents clear arguments both for and against the resurrection. It's clear that he spent a long time researching the period of time surrounding Jesus life and death, giving the reader a better picture of the culture of the day. Context is key. He also does a great job of exploring different hypotheses of what happened to Jesus' body. I think this is one of the better written books I've read on this topic. However, it will probably lead you to ask more questions than it actually provides answers for. I recommend reading with a friend or someone to discuss the ideas with. I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review; the opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Chipotle Lime Shrimp

2011-04-14T08:02:00.007-04:00

This past weekend we made these shrimp for tacos. I don't love shrimp but these were delicious. I think this would also be a great marinade for grilled chicken. I am especially a fan of the chilies in adobo. They add such a great flavor and heat to any dish!

Chipotle Lime Shrimp
Recipe by Kevin at Closet Cooking

Ingredients:
1 chipotle chili in adobo (chopped)
2 teaspoons adobo sauce
1 teaspoon cumin (toasted and ground)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 lime (juice and zest)
2 tablespoons cilantro (chopped)
1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)

Directions:
1. Mix the chipotle, adobo sauce, cumin, brown sugar, lime zest, lime juice and cilantro in a bowl and and let marinate for 20 minutes.
2. Skewer the shrimp.
3. Oil up the grill and grill the shrimp until cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Or throw them in a pan and cook them on the stove top.

Happy Birthday, Ella!

2011-04-12T07:05:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow is the 3rd birthday of one sweet and very special little girl! It's hard to imagine she is already 3 years old. It was even harder to imagine she'd be doing all that she is doing at this point in her little life. But praise God that she is no small miracle and continues to amaze us all! On Sunday evening some friends got together for dinner and a little celebration of Ella's life. We spent the afternoon cooking, eating and laughing. I love these gatherings of friends both old and new. And I love this always changing and growing community. I am learning so much about sharing life - the joys and the sorrows alike. And I'm learning a lot about cooking, too :) We had chipotle-lime shrimp with rice and plenty of chips and salsa. The shrimp was delicious and I'm not a huge shrimp fan. So were both kinds of salsa we had - Mike's red salsa and a mango salsa. For dessert we had Margarita cupcakes though the recipe needs a bit of tweaking. And we enjoyed some spiced Mojitos, a Sig house special. Another evening of good food, conversation and celebrating life with great friends! "...in his presence there is fullness of joy..." - Psalm 16:11

Book Review: The Final Summit

2011-04-11T15:13:00.006-04:00

The Final Summit:

A Quest to Find the One Principle That Will Save Humanity

by: Andy Andrews

In this sequel to "The Traveler's Gift", Andy Andrew's follows up on the story of David Ponder, an ordinary man who has been given an extra-ordinary opportunity. I haven't read the first book, but from my understanding David Ponder needs saving from a life spiraling out of control. In this sequel, David Ponder is given the responsibility to save humanity. Brought together with a cast of famous historical characters, the group must answer one question: what will it take to save humanity from itself, essentially. While I appreciate Andrews style of writing and intention, I wasn't too impressed with this book. It was a quick read and had a few thought provoking moments. Many of which were the stories about the lesser known historical figures represented in this book. This isn't at the top of my list of recommendations but it was an easy and quick read. Maybe great for a day at the beach this summer.

Laughter is the best medicine

2011-04-08T12:55:00.003-04:00

Thursday night I typically get together with some girlfriends for dinner. I look forward to Thursday night dinners and coffee. We try new restaurants, we visit our favorite coffee shop and we laugh a lot. After a long 2 weeks of working with no real time off, it was great to be in the company of great friends. We missed a couple of weeks for various reasons so we had a lot to catch up on. I think the poor people sitting around us thought we were crazy. The stories tend to be very animated. And I don't think we are quiet in our retelling of events. I'm so very thankful for friends that I can be completely honest with, that I can share life with and most of all that I can laugh with. It truly is the best medicine for a weary and tired soul. Prov 17:22 - "A joyful heart is good medicine..."

Road Trip: Dallas Edition

2011-04-05T07:39:00.002-04:00

Technically, it wasn't a road trip. And thankfully so, since Dallas isn't exactly close to Atlanta. I was out in Dallas for the weekend on a business trip. A large international conference was being held there and I had a poster to present. It was a very long weekend with a lot of information to digest. The days began at 7 and didn't end until 6 in the evening. Then there were dinners with colleagues and many mini-meetings filling any remaining minutes of free time. It was certainly a whirlwind of activity! I am grateful for the time spent with a group of my colleagues that wasn't work-related. I very much enjoyed getting to know some of them on a more personal level. And I look forward to continuing to grow those friendships. Much like taking my high school friends to YoungLife camp, getting people outside of their normal circumstances and almost being forced to spend time with them opens the doors for all sorts of deeper conversations. And when you get back home you have this shared experience that breaks down some of those walls people are quick to put up, especially in the work place. I just hope I will be a good steward of these new friendships! Dallas is a city very similar to Atlanta. Everything was very spread out and sort of split into smaller neighborhoods that weren't easily navigated by walking. We took taxis out each night for dinner. And because everything is bigger in Texas, this usually meant stretch limos and stretch hummers. Yep, true story. We got picked up in a stretch hummer one night and were given a tour of the city. We also ate at some great restaurants including one featured on one of my favorite shows, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives: Twisted Root Burger Company. We had milkshakes (which they even had "adult" versions) and burgers. Mine was a guacamole and green chili burger with pepper jack cheese and a side of ancho-chipotle ketchup made in house. Probably the best burger I've ever eaten. We also had some Texas BBQ at Sonny Bryan's Smokehouse, some great Tex-Mex at Uncle Julio's, and a fancy Latin inspired meal at La Duni. All of the food was really good and we had some great servers which it all the more memorable.

Priorities

2011-03-31T06:42:00.004-04:00

Last night I had the chance to spend the evening with family. My sister is off at school about 2 hours away and so we met in the middle for dinner. It was really great to spend some time with her despite my exhaustion from working all day and having been up way to late the night before. We talked about school, tennis, trips to see her play and even summer vacation. It was also great to hear she'll be spending at least a couple weeks at home in between the spring and summer semesters. I definitely miss having her around the house. Trips for frozen yogurt just aren't the same without her! I think it's really easy to take for granted the time we get to spend with loved ones. I think it's especially true when you live together and undoubtedly get on each other's nerves. Or you make other things priorities because you can see them later at home. I was definitely guilty of that often. I definitely wish I'd have taken full advantage of the time my sister and I were roomies.

Book Review: Mere Churchianity

2011-03-17T06:48:00.003-04:00

Mere Churchianity:

Finding Your Way Back to Jesus-Shaped Spirituality

by: Michael Spencer

Before seeing this book on the shelves of the bookstore I hadn't heard of Michael Spencer nor had I read his blog where he wrote as the Internet Monk. I was initially intrigued by the title and finding out what he meant by Churchianity and Jesus-shaped Spirituality. I'm not someone who has questioned leaving the church, but I have often wondered how so many churches seem to have lost sight of the church Jesus established. This book did a great job of explaining the disconnect between today's church (i.e. "Churchianity") and a relationship with Jesus (i.e. "Jesus-shaped Spirituality"). Spencer points to Jesus ministry with the disciples, how they were constantly being challenged to think differently and often against the cultural norms of the day. So why aren't we today challenging the church norms and the lens through which we view Jesus and the church?

Mere Churchianity validates those who may have chosen to leave the church in order to find God. While I don't agree with all of his arguments, I appreciate his candor in expressing his own shortcomings in his search for true Jesus-shaped spirituality. I think it's a good basis for those searching and a great reminder that we are all sinful, broken people forming communities of sinful, broken people. No church will ever be perfect, nor will any person, which is why we should always look to Jesus.

Spencer passed away last April after a long fight with cancer. Fortunately, his words still live on in his website (www.internetmonk.com) and in this book, Mere Churchianity.

*I received this book free from Multnomah Books as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own*

Sharptop Cove

2011-02-28T06:54:00.002-05:00

This past weekend I had the great pleasure of taking my high school friends to Sharptop for the weekend. I was in the midst of 2 crazy weeks at work and didn't go into the weekend as rested as I would have liked, but it turned out to be a special weekend nonetheless. I had to drive up separately from everyone else, but I enjoyed some good conversation with friends who work at camp before my high school friends arrived. Once the buses rolled in it was nonstop until Sunday morning when they rolled out.

There was a lot of singing and dancing and goofiness, a very early morning hike up Sharptop mountain, good food and great conversation. My girls and I shared a room with some girls from another school. It ended up being a good mix. I'm thankful for my new friend and cabin buddy, Laura and her little friend Mr. Quackles.

I ended up working the Quantum on Saturday afternoon but was able to spend some good time with friends and enjoyed a beautiful afternoon outside. Free time ended with a helicopter landing in the middle of the wiffleball field at camp and I had a front row view. Crazy indeed.

My favorite part of the weekend was hearing my friend Jonesie speak. He did such a great job presenting the gospel of Jesus to my high school friends. I think we all walked away seeing Jesus and understanding his love for us a little bit more clearly then when the weekend started.

Girl's Night

2011-02-11T14:32:00.003-05:00

A new tradition has sort of started over the last few months. Every Thursday night I get together with some wonderful ladies for dinner and coffee. We all sort of live far away from one another so we meet in the middle and have been checking out different local restaurants each week. Following dinner we head over to Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee. It's been fun to try out new restaurants and all different sorts of foods from Tex-Mex to Greek to Pizza to Burgers. And I love supporting 1000 Hills coffee. An added bonus is that their coffee shop in Roswell is a fun little house that's been converted into a coffee shop. Great atmosphere for relaxing conversation over some delicious warm beverages. What I love even more about Thursdays is the conversation. One of the girls I went to college with and the other I met about a year and a half ago when she started working at camp. The three of us have developed a unique friendship where we have become really comfortable with sharing life. We laugh, a lot. I think the staff at 1000 Hills coffee thinks we are a bit crazy. We are share a deeper level of conversation. We talk about God and what's He is doing in our lives and it's a safe place to ask hard questions. I always leave feeling encouraged. This is what friendship and community is all about. Now if only one other of my favorite ladies would join the fun (you know who you are) it'd be perfect!

Spinach Pasta Bake

2011-02-10T14:35:00.003-05:00

I'm a huge fan of pasta and had been craving lasagna or stuffed shells. My mom and I adapted a spinach and artichoke dip recipe and started using that as a substitute for the traditional ricotta and mozzarella cheese mixture we typically use in these dishes. The other night I was feeling a little to lazy to layer a lasagna or stuff shells so I just used some bow tie pasta I had in the pantry and threw it all together in one pot. It tasted just as good as a lasagna and took half the time!

Spinach Pasta Bake

Ingredients

1 lb. pasta (ziti, penne, bow tie, whatever you like)
1 jar pasta sauce
8 oz. part skim mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup plain low-fat yogurt
10-12 oz. frozen spinach, thawed and drained
1 tsp. garlic powder

Directions

Preheat oven to 350*
Cook pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and return to pot with enough sauce to coat pasta (this will keep them from sticking together).
Mix together 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, yogurt, spinach and garlic powder.
Add spinach/cheese mixture to pasta and mix well.
Spread a layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 pan. Add pasta mixture. Top with more sauce and remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake for 35-45 minutes, until cheese is bubbly.

Wedding: Alison + Manny

2011-02-10T06:53:00.004-05:00

Last week at this time I was packing for a road trip of epic proportions. Mostly because I drove many hours through many states by myself. But the reason and destination totally made up for it!

A few years ago I interned with Alison at Lake Champion. We spent two wonderful summers working and living together. And that's where she met Manny. It's been fun seeing her randomly over the last 3 years - at Sharptop, in Orlando, at another great friends' wedding - and the many conversations we've had about life, love, family and Jesus. Alison has such a sweet and gentle spirit, she's one of the most talented musicians I've ever met, and her love for Jesus is contagious. I would say much the same about Manny. You can't help but smile when you are in a room with him. He loves and leads other well. I'm so excited to see where this next adventure takes them. I think together they will continue to do great things for the glory of God.

The other great part about the road trip was seeing so many other great friends from Lake Champion and some other friends who were gracious enough to let me stay at their homes on my journey. Friday night was spent with a former Sharptop intern who lives in Greensboro. Saturday was lunch with a whole bunch of my favorite people from Lake Champion. Unfortunately, I didn't take many pictures but here are a few of the friends I saw. Missing from these pictures are the Young's and the Kirkpatrick's (who I wasn't expecting to see at the wedding... wonderful surprise!) but it was so great to spend time together. Saturday night I stayed with my uncle, who isn't really my uncle but might as well be.

Emotions aside (weddings and funerals shouldn't have to mix), I'm so thankful I was surrounded by such great friends. I love that I get to see them so often because of various celebrations that bring us all together!

Book Review: Sun Stand Still

2011-02-09T06:50:00.004-05:00

Sun Stand Still:

What Happens When You Dare to Ask God for the Impossible

By: Steven Furtick

Steven Furtick, pastor of Elevation Church in Charlotte, NC, beleives that anyone can (and should) have "audacious faith" in God doing the impossible in our lives if only we are willing to ask. You and I can make the sun stand still, just like the account of Joshua in the Old Testament where the sun stool still for an entire day. You might be a little skeptical or think the idea is a little hokey. And if you read this book you might find some of Furtick's simplified theology a little hard to swallow. But I urge you to fight through and finish this book. Furtick not only challenges you to have audacious faith and ask God for the impossible, he backs up his claims with a great balance of Scripture and personal testimonies. He does a great job of putting into perspective what it means to have faith, pray, expect God to do big things, and the reality that things may not always go the way you want. He gives you the good and the bad news about asking God for the impossible. Sometimes we get what we want and sometimes God works in ways that we don't always understand. And he makes it very clear that this isn't the easy way out. It takes work.

I was definitely challenged by what he had to say. I was inspired to ask God for the impossible. And I felt equipped to begin this journey of praying "Sun Stand Still" prayers with audacious faith. It's a quick read and worth your time. My only complaint is I wish he would have used fewer cheesy alliterations and catch phrases.

If you want more information about the book or more resources, visit www.sunstandstill.org

I received this book free from Multnomah Books as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

One Name

2011-02-08T07:57:00.005-05:00

This past weekend I experienced something I never hope to experience again - a funeral and a wedding, for people the same age, on the same day, in the same town. My friend Andrew had a heart attack on January 24. He went to school in Harrisonburg, PA which is where he was laid to rest this past Saturday. It just so happened that I was attending a wedding just outside of Harrisonburg this past Saturday (more on that later), as well. It was an emotional day, for sure. Celebrating endings and new beginnings. I think I'm still processing the experience. But the one thing that continues to stand out in my mind is the way both ceremonies glorified Christ. Throughout the funeral the message was made very clear: Andrew was the man we all loved because he loved and was first loved by Jesus Christ. The same message was presented just as clearly at the wedding: celebrating a new beginning for two friends who love and are first loved by Jesus Christ. The name "Jesus Christ" was spoken more times that day than I hear in a Sunday morning church service. It's because of Jesus Christ that there is hope in celebrating a life well lived and the union of two friends. God was glorified, unabashedly. His love is undeniable.

Patience and Timing

2011-02-04T14:51:00.002-05:00

I had mini-revelation yesterday after I got through with skating practice. I was stuck in traffic for a good hour on my way to dinner after skating and I was processing through some things. The last week or two I've been skating very poorly. It's incredibly frustrating to struggle through things that, under normal circumstances, are easy. But with all the craziness that's been my life in the last 2 weeks I've been a bit distracted even while skating. Usually I use that time to decompress and focus on skating. But sometimes I can't stop thinking about all the things that are going on with friends, big decisions, the long to-do list, etc.

Yesterday I had a great practice. I was really pleased with the progress I had made and the corrections on jumps and spins that I made. When I stopped to think about what made it work on the ice the two things that stood out were timing and patience. When I am patient and let things work the way they are supposed to my jumps work well. They are easy and light. When I'm distracted on the ice I find myself rushing through things and trying to force my timing, which just means things don't work the way they should and I inevitably end up on my butt. I think this is a perfect parallel to my life. When I stop focusing on Christ, when I try to rush through things and push my timing, everything sort of falls apart. Sometimes you can muscle through, but most of the time it's way more difficult then it needs to be and it often ends up with me failing. Miserably. I'm learning how to be patient. How to trust in His timing. And learning that the results are ALWAYS better that way.

Track #19 - O Love That Will Not Let Me Go

2011-02-02T09:37:00.002-05:00

I love hymns. I miss singing hymns on Sunday morning from a beat-up old red hymnal with the pages that would fall out if you turned them too quickly. Sometimes I find the depth of lyrics in many of today's Christian music lacking. Despite the arcane language, I really relate to this hymn below.

O Love That Will Not Let Me Go
By George Mattheson

O Love that wilt not let me go,
I rest my weary soul in thee;
I give thee back the life I owe,
That in thine ocean depths its flow
May richer, fuller be.

O light that foll’west all my way,
I yield my flick’ring torch to thee;
My heart restores its borrowed ray,
That in thy sunshine’s blaze its day
May brighter, fairer be.

O Joy that seekest me through pain,
I cannot close my heart to thee;
I trace the rainbow through the rain,
And feel the promise is not vain,
That morn shall tearless be.

O Cross that liftest up my head,
I dare not ask to fly from thee;
I lay in dust life’s glory dead,
And from the ground there blossoms red
Life that shall endless be.

Celebration

2011-02-02T07:45:00.003-05:00

The past few weeks seem to be filled with celebration. Not all of the celebrations have been observances of joyous occasions, but I'd still say they can be classified as celebrations. According to Webster's, to celebrate is to honor by solemn ceremonies or to mark by festivities or other deviation from the norm. I have celebrated births and death, life changes, anniversaries, birthdays, friendships, family and the like - deviations from the norm, honoring some person or event or occasion in a special way. Sometimes it can be challenging to process the various emotions that are attached to such celebrations, especially when you find yourself celebrating the birth of a baby and the life of a friend whose life was taken far sooner than any would have hoped or imagined all in the same week. It is indeed a reminder of the sinful, broken world in which we live. But it is also a sweet reminder of the hope and grace that we receive from a loving Father. Maybe bittersweet is a better word for it. But I cannot help but find joy when sitting among friends sharing laughter and life. Praying with and for one another. Encouraging one another. Loving one another. Crying with one another. Worshipping with one another. After all, it is the "one-anothering" we were made for, isn't it? With Christ in the center, these occasions bring hope of something better - a world we were made for that isn't on this earth. In his presence there is FULLNESS of joy [Psalm 16:11]. Maybe I'm getting a better picture of what that "fullness" really means.

Book Review: i am not but i know I AM!

2011-01-28T13:10:00.005-05:00

I Am Not But I Know I Am: Welcome to the Story of God
by: Louie Giglio

A few years ago I was given a copy of this book from a friend when I was in college. I had been attending 7:22 at Northpoint Church which was led by Louie at the time and heard a message that was the basis of this book. I probably finished the book in a day as it was well written and in the same sort of style as Louie speaks: great truths from God's Word interspersed with humor. But what I remember 5 years later and what drew me to read through the book again was the message that despite this world saying to make much of myself, I'm called to make much of Jesus. Life isn't about me. It's about something much greater!

Louie re-tells the story of John the Baptist who said that he must decrease in order that God may increase. It's incredibly counter-culture but truth nonetheless. Louie goes on to talk about how insignificant we are in comparison to all God has created but also that God calls us to have a unique part in His story. He explains the significance of God calling himself "I Am" and why that means me "i am not". It's humbling. But in order to fully realize who we are, we have to see God in all his glory. Embrace the insignificance and jump head first into God's epic story.

A Turkey Hill toast to you, Andrew!

2011-01-26T14:32:00.005-05:00

Monday evening a dear friend and brother in Christ was called home. He had a very sudden and unexpected heart attack. I am not great with words and it seems that in hard times such as these I find it hard to put into words the thought and emotions swirling around my mind. So here is a link to someone who is a talented writer and artist who has put to words what many in our ODOS and church community are feeling and tells a bit more of what happened Monday. Here is a better picture of Andrew Millette and the details of Monday night from Andrew's roommate Matt's perspective.

Andrew was one of the first people I met when I joined the ODOS group for Bible study. In fact, I believe he was teaching the first night when I showed up late and in the middle of some outburst of laughter that had something to do with Eunuchs. His gentle spirit and love of Christ were always apparent in the way he spoke and the way he loved others. He was absolutely in love with his fiance, cared deeply for the homeless and hurting in the community, and truly had a servant's heart. I think he had a sense for the deeper needs of the people he encountered, always knowing when a hug or a word of encouragement or an invitation to join in a conversation was needed. In the midst of sadness in losing a friend, I can't help but smile knowing that Andrew is with Jesus. I'd like to think they are sitting around eating scrapple and drinking turkey hill tea.

Death is a funny thing. It's not something often discussed. And people are generally uncomfortable talking about it. But I love that as a follower of Christ there is so much hope - death does not have the final victory, there is something greater after this life, and one day we will all be united together again with Christ in heaven. I also love how times like these bring communities of people together - to pray for one another and to life each other up in so many precious ways.

"Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" - 1 Corinthians 15:55

Cinnamon Banana Bread

2011-01-24T09:35:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I spent a quiet day in the kitchen baking and cooking for the week. It was very relaxing and now I have yummy treats for the week! Here is a new recipe for cinnamon banana bread that I made. It's relatively healthy and quite flavorful! You could probably leave out the oil entirely and sub for applesauce without becoming too dry.

Cinnamon Banana Bread

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (2 to 3 medium)
3 tablespoons pumpkin
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup applesauce
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup milk

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter and flour 9x5x3-inch metal baking pan.
Whisk flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in medium bowl.
Whisk remaining ingredients in large bowl until smooth. Add dry ingredients; stir to blend.
Transfer batter to pan. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture if desired.
Bake bread until tester inserted into center comes out clean, about 1 hour.
Cool bread in pan 30 minutes. Remove from pan and cook completely.

Adapted from Bon Appetit

Chipotle Chocolate Cupcakes with Chocolate Ganache, Vanilla Ice Cream and a Cranberry Relish

2011-01-24T06:55:00.005-05:00

For Mike's Birthday dessert we opted for an interesting combination of chipotle peppers and chocolate. The cupcakes were definitely spicy but served with ice cream, chocolate ganache and a cranberry relish and they were absolutely delightful! The recipe was adapted from Bakerella's Fire and Ice cupcakes. At some point I think it'd be worth serving the way she suggests but honestly I like the combo we created.

Chipotle Chocolate Cupcakes

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons boiling water
1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tablespoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon salt
1-1/2 teaspoons chipotle powder
1 cups sugar
1/2 cup butter (1 stick), room temperature
2 whole eggs
1 teaspoons vanilla
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon canned chipotles in adobe sauce, pureed

Preparation:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Line cupcake trays with baking cups (18)
Puree canned chipotles and set aside.
Boil water. Transfer boiling water to bowl. Stir in cocoa until dissolved to form chocolate mixture and set aside.
With a wire whisk, mix flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt and chipotle powder in a separate bowl and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, mix sugar, butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add buttermilk and vanilla and mix well.
Add flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with chocolate mixture in two additions, ending with flour mixture. Beat until combined with each addition.
Add pureed chipotles and beat until combined.
Scoop batter into prepared cupcake trays.
Bake for 13-15 minutes and cool completely.

Chocolate Ganache

Ingredients

3 ounces, weight semi-sweet chocolate
1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
1 cups confectioner's sugar

Preparation:

Melt chocolate over a double broiler.
Once melted, stir in heavy cream
Gradually add sugar and whisk mixture until smooth.

Cranberry Relish

Ingredients

2 oranges, zest 1 and reserve. Peel both and use fruit
1 lemon, zest and then peel and use fruit
4 cups (1lb, bag and half) fresh cranberries
2 apples, diced
2 cups sugar
1-2 shots vodka (optional, but balances nicely)

Preparation:

All in the food processor, pulse until desired consistency.
Refrigerate for several days to let flavors blend.

Assembly:

Remove paper liners. Cut cupcake in half horizontally. Place a small scoop of vanilla ice cream in between the two cupcake halves. Top with chocolate ganache. Drizzle cranberry relish over the top.

Birthday Chili

2011-01-24T06:45:00.003-05:00

We decided chili was an appropriate meal: 1) because it's cold outside and 2) because we could keep with the "chipotle" theme for the evening. The chipotle adds quite a nice kick as does the combo of ancho chili powder and regular chili powder. If you aren't into spicy you might want to cut the chili powders in half. Otherwise this has a great flavor and is the perfect winter chili!

Mike's Birthday Chili

Ingredients

3/4 tablespoon cumin seed

1/2 tablespoon coriander seed

2 1/2 pounds ground chuck

1 tablespoon canola oil

2 onions, chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

2 green bell peppers, chopped

1 jalapeno, stemmed and chopped

2 1/2 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ancho chili powder

1 teaspoon chipotle chilies in adobo sauce, chopped

1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes with juice, chopped

1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes with juice

2 15-ounce cans kidney beans, drained

6 ounces dark beer (like stout)

2 cans tomato soup + 1 can water

salt and pepper

Toppings

Sour cream
Scallions, thinly sliced
Grated cheddar cheese
Frito's
Tortillas

Procedures

Add the cumin and coriander seed to a small skillet set over medium heat. Toast the spices, shaking the pan often, until they darken slightly, about 4 minutes. Set aside to cool. Then grind.
Cook the beef (seasoned with salt and pepper) in batches in a large skillet set over medium-high until it is no longer pink. Set the cooked beef aside for a few minutes. Drain off any fat and juices that collect.
Meanwhile, pour the canola oil into a large pot set over medium-high heat. Add the onions, peppers, and jalapeno. Cook, stirring often, until very soft. This should take about 15 minutes.
Add the browned beef, spices, chili powder, chopped chipotle peppers, tomatoes, beans, beer, tomato soup and water to the large pot. Stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper. Ladle some chili into a bowl. Top as desired.

Adapted from Serious Eats: Beef and Dark Beer Chili

Chef's Birthday!

2011-01-23T18:20:00.003-05:00

Last weekend I got together with some of my favorite people to celebrate Mike's birthday with the traditional dinner, cupcakes, dominoes and of course a viewing of Surfer, Dude. The flavor of the evening was "Chipotle" and it made it's way into both dinner and dessert. I made a super spicy chili for dinner and we served it with all the fixings. The dessert was from a recipe called "Fire and Ice Cupcakes" which we modified a bit (recipe here). We also had salad and beer bread to complete the meal.

After dinner we played a rousing game of dominoes, Mike's favorite. Despite the competitive nature of the group things didn't get too out of hand, though I believe a few choice words were spoken at various points throughout the game when someone would do something to ruin the next person's play. I suppose that is kind of the point of the game - to win and all.

Following dominoes I finally got to see Surfer, Dude which I have heard lots about but have managed to avoid watching. There really aren't words to describe this film. I think you just have to watch it, with Mike, in order to fully appreciate the love he has for this movie.

Another successful dinner with good food and great friends! There is nothing like spending a day preparing food with friends. And there is nothing better then laughter and conversation had around a table.

Book Review: Radical

2011-01-14T09:25:00.004-05:00

Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream

by David Platt

In recent months I have heard a lot of buzz about this book and author David Platt. Some friends who recently attended Passion 2011 heard him speak and got me even more excited about reading this book. Thanks to a snow day I was able to read this book in a day but days later am still processing what I've read and am embarking on the Radical Experiment that Platt outlines in the book.

My initial reaction to the book was that Platt came across as very abrasive and maybe a little too over-the-top in his criticism of the American church and church culture. However, the further I got into the book and the more I followed up with reading the scriptures he has based his arguments on, the more I began to agree with his criticism. Essentially, his argument is that we have made Christ's gospel into the prosperity gospel. We have neglected important parts of the Scripture that say we will suffer with Christ, we will be persecuted, things will be difficult and that we have the responsibilities of bringing the gospel to all the world, providing for the needs of the poor, protecting the orphans, and so on. We have twisted the Bible to say what we want it to say and have sort of overlooked the other parts that don't focus on what I can get out of following Christ when our focus should be on what I can be doing because of Christ. It's easy to get comfortable and think that others are better equipped to do the things that I don't want to do. But that's not what God has called us to.

The book is divided into 8 different chapters that each address an important issue: from laying the foundation for the gospel to our role as followers of Christ to bring the gospel to the world. The last chapter is devoted to outlining Platt's Radical Experiment: Pray, Read, Give, Go, Serve. For me, this was a timely book to read in January as I think about what sorts of resolutions I have for the year. This is my new set of resolutions. You can find more about the Radical Experiment here. There are also lots more resources about the book available at www.radicalthebook.com. It'd be a great book to read with a small group as well.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review

Slower pace

2011-01-07T14:32:00.003-05:00

This past week has been a nice change of pace for me. I am often running around every night of the week trying to spend time with friends or check things off a to-do list. This past week was a lot more low key than normal but still filled with sweet time with friends. On Wednesday I was invited to dinner with some friends who recently got married. It was my first time joining the happy couple and it was so fun to spend time with them! We ate good food and laughed about life in college and times past. Last night I spent some time catching up with some Young Life friends who were in town for a week of training. I love that this training happens at Sharptop every year and that I get to see friends who are spread about the country and the world. Again, it was a night of great food with great friends. We had solid conversation about life and ministry this amazing God we have the privilege of serving. And lastly, I finally got to spend some time with one of the property wives. It's been a long time coming, for sure, since every time we tried to plan out a day or time to get together something always got in the way! So today was the finally the day the stars aligned and it all worked out. It was fun spending time just getting to know her better and play with one of her sweet little boys. I love these little glimpses of life lived abundantly and in the presence of Jesus. My heart is full!

New Year, New Music

2011-01-05T07:00:00.002-05:00

I have some very talented friends. A few who happen to be musicians and whose music is definitely worth checking out. Two of them recently released new CDs and you know you want to buy them

Mike Kinnebrew and you can get his album on amazon

Kurt Scobie and you can buy his Crash EP here.

Go. Listen. Support my friends... you won't regret it!

Resolutions for 2011

2011-01-01T23:09:00.002-05:00

Last year I decided that I would make some New Years resolutions which isn't something I've done much of in the past. I'm going to continue in the tradition of rooting my resolutions in Scripture. Last year I was inspired by Proverbs 17 - to be a friend that loves at all times and to have a cheerful heart. When I think back over the last year I think I was challenged in big ways to live out those qualities. And it wasn't easy. In fact, there were many times when it would have been easier to walk away from a challenging friendship or to just be bitter because my circumstances weren't what I wanted them to be. While I was far from perfect in putting into practice what Proverbs 17 says, I think I learned a ton about myself as I tried to be those things and hopefully did actually love my friends unconditionally and hopefully more often than not was able to have a cheerful heart.

In 2011 I want to focus on the time I spend in the presence of God - in prayer, in reading scripture, in learning to be more like Christ. In Luke 10:38-42, Jesus is at the home of Mary and Martha. Mary chose to sit at the feet of Jesus and listen to what he said but Martha was distracted by all the things that needed to get done. Martha wants Jesus to rebuke Mary for not helping. But Jesus responds by saying "Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." What an awesome reminder! I am guilty of being distracted and worrying about many things (and typically things I have absolutely no control over) so the point that I forget what is truly important: being in God's presence. So, for 2011 I intend to spend less time worrying and more time just being in His presence. I think that I will be challenged in ways that are beyond what I could come up with as resolutions for the year. I am excited to see what comes my way in 2011.

Welcome 2011!

2011-01-01T23:04:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year!

I said goodbye to 2010 in much the same way I welcomed in 2011 - dinner at Pueblo, boozy chocolate cake at the Sigs, and time with friends. I love that new traditions are forming and I hope to continue them for years to come!

In reading through some old blog entries it's also apparent that not too much has changed from last year to this one. I'm wondering if I'm ever going to learn whatever lessons it is the Lord is trying to teach me. Clearly I haven't done a very good job if I find myself asking the same questions and struggling through the same things. I guess I'm just a slow learner. Maybe this year will be a year of change :)

Mike Kinnebrew Concert

2010-12-30T07:57:00.004-05:00

The week before Christmas I made the trek out to Conyers with a few friends for a benefit concert. My friend Mike Kinnebrew was playing at Christ Community Church with his band to raise money for Rockdale County Young Life. The ride out to Conyers was incredibly entertaining. We made it just in time for Mike to start playing. Not only did I enjoy the music but I absolutely loved being able to catch up with great friends from when I did Young Life in Conyers. I miss these people dearly, but am blessed every time I get to spend time with them! They will always be my family and I am so thankful for them.

Book Review: Seeds of Turmoil

2010-12-29T07:42:00.004-05:00

Seeds of Turmoil:

The Biblical Roots of the Inevitable Crisis in the Middle East

by: Bryant Wright

In the past decade or so, I've found myself more and more interested in the history of Judaism, Christianity and Islam and how they are interconnected. It seems you can't turn on the news or pick up a newspaper without reading about the fighting going on in the Middle East, but the battle being fought isn't a new one. In Seeds of Turmoil, Bryant Wright gives a clear history and explanation of the Middle East crisis. He starts by recounting the Biblical story of Abraham, Sarah and Hagar and how their choices have led to the crisis we see today.

While I thought the book did a great job of explaining in detail the history of the conflict, including the differing perspectives on God and the significance of the land, I found myself often thinking "didn't I just read that same sentence?". I think the author repeated himself often and could have more concisely explained his arguments. It is worth flipping through but be prepared for some repetitiveness in the chapters.

Book Review: Under the Overpass

2010-12-29T06:54:00.002-05:00

Under the Overpass
by: Mike Yankoski

A few years ago a good friend of mine moved to Colorado to work at the Denver Rescue Mission. I always admired her passion for serving the homeless and generally living among the marginalized in society. When I saw this book I was excited to read about the journey two college kids decided to take to learn first hand what being homeless was all about. Mike and his friend, Sam, traveled through 6 cities experiencing life on the streets and taking a few notes along the way.

As I read this book I found myself feeling uncomfortable. Uncomfortable because I have so often been quick to judge and quick to assume the worst about people. I have been that person that walks by homeless men and women on the street and refuses to look at them, much less offer a meal or a conversation or some other act of love towards them. I've had to re-evaluate the way I view people, all people, even those who are dirty and smelly from having lived under overpasses or in parks or on sidewalks. I think Mike Yankoski does an excellent job of challenging Christians to stop for a minute, take a second look, and really live out the love we so often claim to have for others. Just because someone doesn't look the way we think they ought to, doesn't mean they deserve to be treated with love and respect any less then someone who does.

I think this is a great, quick read for anyone wanting a glimpse into another kind of life and wanting to be challenged to do something about it.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review

Humphrey's First Christmas Party

2010-12-20T13:50:00.005-05:00

This time of year is always filled with Christmas celebrations - Young Life Tacky Sweater Christmas parties, white elephant gift exchanges, watching Elf and Christmas Vacation, holiday baking, exchanging gifts with family, work holiday parties and Christmas concerts. This past Saturday was probably the highlight of all my holiday celebrations thus far. I got together with some friends for our monthly dinner, this time celebrating Christmas. On the menu was a balsamic salad, beer bread, timbalo, chocolate candies and some boozy gingerbread cupcakes (recipe here). All of the food was absolutely delectable, especially the timbalo. I'm looking forward to making this a tradition and having it again next year for our Christmas dinner!

The girls spent a few hours baking and prepping food in the kitchen followed by a few hours around the table eating and laughing. We ate in courses - salad and bread first. This was followed by a reading of what I think will become the traditional holiday story - Humphrey's First Christmas by Carol Heyer. Not only was the story incredibly entertaining but it also had a good message: celebrating the birth of Christ. While I love 'Twas the Night before Christmas and other "traditional" stories, I would much rather a story that reflects the true meaning of the season. After the reading it was on to the main course - timbalo - piping hot from the oven. Following dinner we retired to the sun room for our white elephant gift exchange. I have never been so entertained... and I think only pictures will really do this justice. After exchanging presents and laughing so hard my muscles were aching, we ate cupcakes (complete with Christmas decorations given to me by my sweet friend) and then watched another holiday classic - Christmas Vacation.

I left that night reminded of the reason we celebrate Christmas - Christ came to this earth to be with us. We can celebrate his presence among us by being surrounded by friends and good food and laughter rather than just giving gifts to people. I am even more convinced that in His presence there is fullness of joy. It's a beautiful thing. I am beyond blessed and so thankful for a tangible reminder of God's love this holiday season.

Cupcakes!

Moral Support

funny faces are mandatory in the kitchen

Timbalo!

Entertaining the kiddo

Humphrey's First Christmas reading :)

Cupcakes!

Musical tie and blow-up reindeer = perfect white elephant

High School Musical Stick-ons

She made a new friend :)

Gingerbread Cupcakes with a side of rum

2010-12-20T10:35:00.002-05:00

For our Christmas dinner we decided to make boozy Gingerbread cupcakes. The spiced rum was a nice addition to an already spice-filled cupcake. We topped the cupcakes with a cinnamon and rum cream cheese frosting. They were delightful!

Gingerbread Cupcakes
recipe adapted from http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/gingerbread_cupcakes/

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups of all purpose flour
1 teaspoon of baking soda
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
1/8 teaspoon of ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon of salt
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup spiced rum
1/2 cup of packed dark brown sugar
1/2 cup of unsulphured molasses (not blackstrap)
2 large eggs, room temperature

Method
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a small bowl, melt the butter and milk together in the microwave, covering the top with plastic wrap. Add rum.
2. Sift together the flour, salt, baking soda, cocoa powder and dry spices in a bowl.
3. Beat together the molasses and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating for 30 seconds between each.
4. Beat in the flour mixture slowly until just incorporated. Add the butter mixture and beat until smooth. Batter will be runny.
5. Spoon into cupcake papers, about 3/4 full. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool for a minute to set before moving to a wire rack to fully cool.

Fudge!... and some other life lessons

2010-12-16T21:38:00.004-05:00

Tonight while driving to spend the evening with my friend and her precious kiddos I was rear-ended on the highway. I am ok with the exception of being frustrated at this new inconvenience in my life. The whole ordeal took about 30 minutes since a cop literally pulled up behind us as soon as we moved our cars off the road. I am very thankful for that and all the details being taken care of quickly. Let's just hope the car fixing process is as speedy. I'm not so hopeful after the crazy icy roads and the 1000 accidents around the city last night.

But I'll have to say it was worth it to spend time with this family. I wasn't able to see the kiddos for very long as it was story time when I arrived and they were shortly off to bed. I didn't miss the goodnight hugs however and these munchkins give the BEST hugs. It made my whole day so much better! The kids went upstairs and said their prayers which included a few for me... heart melting over here! They are so precious and innocent and full of expectation. I could really learn something from that.

The night ended with making fudge for teachers' Christmas gifts. I've never made it before so it was a fun lesson for me. One of the boys was having trouble sleeping so he came downstairs to help. He wanted to do everything himself. He helped stir and taste and sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top. He was so excited about all the things he was doing and how much of a helper he was being.

I was going over there tonight with the hopes of having some great and inspiring conversations. Funny that things didn't go as I planned. Funnier still that the Lord knew exactly what my heart needed. Joy is overflowing thanks to sweet time with a family and the little reminder of what it means to have child-like faith.

Breathe in, Breathe out

2010-12-14T07:07:00.003-05:00

I had my whole weekend planned out and was very much looking forward to it. Funny that nothing in my plan actually happened the way I had planned for it to happen, but I am thankful for that. There seems to be this recurring theme of "it's ok that things are outside of your control, in fact, it's even better when you stop trying to make everything go according to your plan" in my life these days.

I ended up spending the weekend with wonderful people - sharing food, laughter and conversation. My sister and I went to a Thrasher's game on Friday and we spent most of Sunday together running errands. Saturday I had coffee with a friend so we could talk about the Beth Moore book we are reading through (Breaking Free, it's a great read). I went on a long, chilly walk with another friend from college, had lunch and did some Christmas shopping. From there I went to have dinner with the sweetest little (and by little, I mean they have 4 kids...) family. I absolutely loved spending time with them. Kids are so honest - their joy, their sadness, their love. They also give the best bedtime hugs that can melt anyone's heart! Saturday night I finally got to see a friend who has a busier life than even me! We ended up baking pumpkin chocolate chip bread which was so very yummy! Sunday afternoon I managed to get coffee with a girl from my small group, dinner with a friend and her husband and I even made it to the Young Life Christmas party.

Going into the weekend I was genuinely excited about my plans. And while I don't doubt I would have enjoyed doing those things that I had planned, I am so thankful for the things I actually ended up doing. I think sometimes I just choose "good" things but really God has "great" things planned. So this is why I struggle to relinquish control of my life and hand it over to someone who has greater things for me than I could ever dream up on my own.

Track #18 - Change Me

2010-12-08T09:23:00.002-05:00

I love this song by Ryan Long that I've heard played a good bit at Young Life camps over the past year or so. I think it's a beautiful picture of the cry of our hearts when we realize there is a God who loves us and has been trying to get our attention (and in the case of YL camp... I think often in the beauty of our surroundings).

Change Me
by Ryan Long

Never seen the trees so tall
Never seen the mountains at all
Now that I’m here I can’t stop my trembling hands

Never seen the water so clear
Never seen the people so fearless
Never seen the snow, I just didn’t know

I don’t wanna cry now about where I’ve been
I just wanna try now to start again

I wanna tear off the rooftops so maybe I can see you in the sky
I wanna catch every raindrop and wash the shadows from my eyes

I just wanna live my life like it was meant to be

Change me (where I stand)
Change me (take my hand)
Change me (where I stand)
Change me (take my hand)

Disappointment revisited

2010-12-07T06:59:00.003-05:00

I just read a quote by Bob Goff which said: "God doesn't stand us up against door jams to see how much we've grown; He stands us up against disappointments and then measures."

Last night I had a hard conversation with a friend. It was by no means a bad conversation; in fact, it was honest and I think the words that were spoken were done so out of love. However, my expectations were not met in the ways I thought they would be. I find myself disappointed because the end results isn't what I wanted. Another reminder that things are often better when I am not the one who is in control of things. I mess up and make mistakes. I place my often unrealistic expectations on others and on situations and find myself disappointed that the result isn't to my liking. When I try to be objective and look at the situation and my response, I'm realizing that I have grown. My disappointment isn't affecting the attitude of my heart in the same way it would have a year ago. I'm finding it much easier to have grace towards my friend and myself, to trust that God sees the big picture when I can only see this situation, and that despite things not going my way I realize this outcome is best. I'm still desperately trying to understand it all but I also finding it easier to have a peace about it all even though I don't, and may not ever, fully understand.

So Mr. Goff's words ring true to me today. God has a funny way of working.

I am thankful for a God that is gracious towards me when I don't deserve it - when I'd rather kick and scream and beg for my way like a spoiled child because I think it's better than His. I'm thankful that he grants peace that is well beyond my understanding. And I'm thankful for a God that is "for me", who is patient when I forget that, and who uses all situations to mold me more into His image.

Wedding: Nikole + Paul

2010-12-06T11:45:00.005-05:00

Over the last few months I've had the great fortune of celebrating wonderful friends as they embark on a new journey: marriage. The most recent wedding (Nov 19) was that of Nikole and Paul, two friends from the ODOS group and church I've been going to this past year. Nikole and I have developed a truly special friendship. She has such a heart for service that inspires me to constantly seek out new ways I can give back and serve others. Paul is a lucky man, for sure! I am excited to see how they come together as a couple and continue loving and serving others, as it is definitely a passion they both share. And I'm also looking forward to continuing to walk through life with them!

Here's a little snapshot of them (photo by Lauren Wright... if you are in the market for a wedding photographer check out her page here she did a great job with their pictures!)

Road Trip: Raleigh Edition

2010-12-06T07:28:00.005-05:00

This past weekend I made my way up to Raleigh to visit my wonderful friends, the Springer's. Last summer they moved up there and by Dec had finally moved and settled into their new home. So my first trip to visit them was in Dec. This Dec I made the second annual Dec trip (I love starting new traditions!). It was such sweet time with them. I love the depth of conversation and the care and support they always give to me.

It was a relaxed weekend which I desperately needed! We all had to work Friday and then ended up staying in Friday night. We made dinner and stayed up late talking. Saturday was a kick boxing class, breakfast, hanging with some other friends while Christmas shopping and then dinner at this great restaurant called Cuban Revolution and A Christmas Carol play (that is part of the Springer Christmas tradition). The food was great and the play was very entertaining. But the best part of Saturday was all the SNOW! It was coming down pretty heavy and it stuck around for a bit. I think around 2 inches fell which is crazy for so early in Dec. Sunday morning we got up early for church and had a snowball fight in the parking lot. I loved going up there and the face time with friends that I miss and love dearly!

On the drive home I stopped in Greensboro to see my friend Kristi. We had lunch at this place called the Lindley Filling Station - delicious sandwiches! - with a couple of her friends and roommate. Then we did a little thrift store shopping which is always entertaining. Then it was off to Greenville for dinner with my sweet friend Megan and dessert with Ginny and her roommate and new puppies. A busy day but I'm thankful for the time with friends even though it was brief and included over 5 hours of driving through 3 states.

Have I mentioned how lucky I am to have such wonderful friends in my life? Don't get me wrong, things aren't all sunshine and roses all the time. But when I stop long enough it's hard to deny that the people in my life are wonderful blessings that make the hard times a little easier and the good times great!

Random Thoughts

2010-12-03T14:15:00.002-05:00

I cannot believe it's already December and almost the end of 2010. I am not sure what happened to this year but it has flown by too quickly. I am in Raleigh for the weekend to catch up with some of my favorite people. I think this is going to be an annual tradition since this same weekend last year I also was in Raleigh staying with these same friends.

I have this de ja vu sort of feeling these days. I was thinking about this past year and the things that were consuming my life last year at this time and it appears that so many of those things are exactly the same. I am not certain if this is a good thing. Some of the same lessons I was struggling to learn last year seem to be the same lessons I am STILL learning now. In all fairness to myself, I think I am handling things better this time around. And I think I have grown up a whole lot this year. But my biggest struggle, still, is loving people well. Or, more correctly, trying to love people well. Relationships of all kinds are incredibly challenging. They seem to show me all sorts of faults and areas I am weak. I am being challenged to constantly become a better person and I don't always like that because it means work. It's hard. And I'm stubborn most of the time.

I am also still fighting off doubt and fears when I need to continue to trust and be patient. Maybe one day I'll figure out that I don't need to be in control. It's best when I am not. And so many things would be much simpler if I realized that I don't always need to try so hard to control circumstances that are well beyond my control. I might actually enjoy life a little more if I weren't trying so hard to make things go my way and just go along for the ride.

Fear

2010-12-01T08:08:00.003-05:00

Over the past few weeks I've had many conversations with friends about fear. It's not always said outright, but I think the heart of so many of my concerns and my friend's concerns these days have to do with fear - fear of "what's next" and the "unknown" in our lives. For me, I have realized that I spend a lot of time imagining how my life will play out. Sometimes it's a conversation with a friend or maybe it's imagining a job I will have one day or a house I might live in. Sometimes my imagination runs a little wild and I go to the worst case scenario of what could happen. And I find it's destructive. I get myself worked up about things that have never happened and I have no control over. I have discovered that the problem is wanting to be in control and lacking trust that God is in control of my life and circumstances. I so badly want to know what will happen and be able to control the outcomes that I forget that I don't need to be in control. In fact, it's always better when I'm not. But it takes courage and trust to let go. I am incredibly independent and stubborn to a fault (and have been since I was a child running around screaming "I do self" when anyone would try to help me with anything). If I believe that God is who he says he is and if I believe he has good things for me, why in the world do I constantly fear whatever lies ahead and question the path he is leading me down?

Track #17 - Never Be Ready

2010-11-19T07:15:00.002-05:00

I love how well songs can put into words the things I am feeling or experiencing. Despite my best efforts, I often find myself unable to articulate my deepest thoughts and fears. This song by Mat Kearney does a great job of expressing my heart these days: we'll never be ready if we keep waiting for the perfect time to come.

Never Be Ready
by: Mat Kearney

We got our feet on the wire
Talking 'bout flying
Maybe we're diving in over our heads
Scared of what I'm feeling
Staring at the ceiling
Here tonight

Come on and lay down these arms
All our best defenses
We're taking our chances here on the run
The fear is an anchor
Time is a stranger
Love isn't borrowed
We aren't promised tomorrow

We'll never be ready if we keep waiting
For the perfect time to come
Hold me steady, we'll never be ready
When we don't know, though we can't see
Just walk on down this road with me
Hold me steady, we'll never be ready

You're OK here with me
Here in the silence
With all of the violence crashing around
Saying we can't go
Saying we don't know
This road that is narrow is the one we should follow

We'll never be ready if we keep waiting
For the perfect time to come
Hold me steady, we'll never be ready
When we don't know, though we can't see
Just walk on down this road with me
Hold me steady, we'll never be ready

Steady my hands this one could turn around
Steady my heart, it's beating faster
Steady my hands this one could turn around
Steady my heart, it's beating faster
Beating faster now

We'll never be ready if we keep waiting
For the perfect time to come
Hold me steady, we'll never be ready
When we don't know, though we can't see
Just walk on down this road with me
Hold me steady, never be ready

Hold me steady, we'll never be ready
Hold me steady, we'll never be ready
Hold me steady, we'll never be ready

Birthday Celebration

2010-11-18T06:54:00.003-05:00

Tuesday was my sweet friend's birthday. She invited me and some of our favorite people over for a Greek-inspired dinner. I love that in the last few weeks and actually more like last few months I've spent the majority of my time with these folks. There are dinners and other gatherings, church, B&G, coffee, time spent talking while bumming it on the couch, a trip to California, and working at camp together. I love that different worlds are coming together and a family is the result. Sitting around the table Tuesday I was reminded of the great joy that comes from sharing life with people. I laughed a whole lot, so much so that my stomach hurt the next morning. I also enjoyed delicious food: feta-lamb burgers, roasted potatoes and sweet potatoes with oregano, salad and honey citrus cakes with a raspberry sauce and whipped cream. Both my heart and stomach were happy at the end of the night!

In His presence there if fullness of joy! (Psalm 16:11)

Chocolate Pumpkin Ale Cupcakes

2010-11-16T07:37:00.002-05:00

Chocolate Pumpkin Ale Cupcakes

6-8 oz. stout (3/4-1 c.)
1/4 c. low-fat milk
1/2 Tbsp. vanilla extract
1 large egg + 1 egg white
4 tbsp. light sour cream
6 tbsp. pumpkin
6 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 c. sugar
2 tbsp. pumpkin pie spice {or a combo of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves}
1 1/4 c. flour
3/4 tsp. baking soda
pinch of salt

Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
- Combine stout, milk & vanilla in the bowl of your mixer. Beat in the eggs until well incorporated. Then, mix in sour cream and pumpkin
- Whisk together in a large bowl all dry ingredients. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients.
- Butter {or use baking spray} or line muffin tins & add batter.
- Bake 20-25 minutes for cupcakes, test with a toothpick. {Probably 15-20 minutes for mini size.} Cool before turning out onto wire racks.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/4 c. canned pumpkin puree
1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
powdered sugar to taste

Directions:
-Beat cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract. Mix well. Add powdered sugar to taste.

Cake adapted from SoWonderfulSoMarvelous

Rum Raisin Carrot Cupcakes

2010-11-16T07:31:00.002-05:00

Rum Raisin Carrot Cupcakes

CAKE:
4 eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup rum
1 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
3 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
3 cups grated carrots (grated on large side of grater...otherwise you get mush)
1 cup raisins, soaked in spiced rum

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, beat together eggs, oil, applesauce, rum, white sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla.
Mix in flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir in carrots and raisins. Pour into prepared pan.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.

FROSTING:
2 tbsp. butter, softened
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
confectioners' sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
cinnamon
rum

Directions:
In a medium bowl, combine butter, cream cheese, confectioners' sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add cinnamon and rum, mix to combine.

3rd Annual Oyster Roast

2010-11-16T07:22:00.003-05:00

This past week has been another whirlwind of activity! In fact, that is how I feel about this past year. I can't believe it's already November and another Oyster Roast has come and gone. I think this year definitely outdid last year and planning has already begun for next year!

The weather was absolutely perfect (in the 70's during the day and 40's at night). I went up to the Sig's right after work and got started on food prep. We made 2 kinds of boozy cupcakes (rum carrot cake and chocolate pumpkin ale... recipes to follow) plus some jalapeno popper things. Of course, Anne and I along with our new baking buddy Octavia, laughed a whole lot and made a huge mess in the kitchen.

Lots of friends joined the party throughout the night. There were folks inside and out, hanging by the fire and enjoying good food and conversation. It was fun also to see so many worlds sort of colliding. Friends from Sharptop and YL in the area plus some folks who are part of a church in Canton I've been going to. It was awesome to watch people make new connections.

A few of us who were staying at the house ended up playing darts and sitting around the fire in the wee hours of the morning. Such sweet time with some of my favorite people!

I wish I had some pictures from the night or that I could describe the joy it has been to live in community. This night was another great example and reminder of that blessing.

Road Trip: Greenville edition

2010-11-03T07:05:00.003-04:00

It's no secret that I travel often. I spent the past week in Portland and San Francisco after having just returned from San Francisco less than 2 weeks before. I flew in Saturday morning and had plans for another mini-trip on Sunday. My friend needed to pick up her wedding dress from her soon to be in-laws house in Greenville and she asked me to join her on this little adventure. I had no idea what I was getting myself into!

We met after church and grabbed a quick lunch before stopping by her house to drop off my car. We hit the road around 2:30 and then just as quickly as the trip began it came to an abrupt stop. Turns out GA drivers really are crazy and we ended up stuck on 85 less than a mile from where we got on the highway and about 1/4 mile from an accident that blocked the road for almost 2 hours. We were definitely entertained by the company of the other drivers who quickly realized we'd be sitting for a while. The weather was at least beautiful and so we enjoyed the sunshine and good conversation.

Around 4 we were finally on our way to Greenville. We made it to her in-laws just in time for lasagna, strawberry salad and a still-warm lemon pound cake. The food was as delightful as the company! After dinner we chatted about the wedding and then moved the dress into the car. I wish we could have stayed longer but we both had to be to work early the next day.

Despite the long day... and well, weekend... of travels I'm so glad I could join in the fun! The dress made it safely to its destination. I am very much looking forward to celebrating my friends as they begin a new journey together!

Work, work, work

2010-11-02T10:43:00.005-04:00

I recently returned from a week long adventure to the West Coast. This would be the second trip this month. I traveled to Portland and then San Francisco for work-related site visits. Fortunately, I was in good company with 5 co-workers. When we weren't working we were able to see the city. I didn't has as much time as I would have liked to enjoy these great destinations because of some other work projects that were under a tight deadline and needed to be finished. But I managed to make it to the Deschuttes Brewery, Powell's bookstore and Voodoo Donuts in Portland (apparently these were "must visit" places!). We also drank lots of great local coffee including Stumptown Roasters. Midweek we caught a flight to San Francisco and ended up staying in Oakland. We ventured over to Fisherman's Wharf to eat at the Franciscan, visit the huge crab pots, the Boudin sourdough bakery, and ride the streetcars. We also had some delicious Vietnamese food and French crepes. Below are some pictures from the trip. They are from an iPhone so the quality isn't great. I didn't think I'd have so much fun on a work trip!

Track #16 - Light up the Sky

2010-10-19T13:48:00.002-04:00

Light up the Sky
by The Afters

When I'm feeling all alone and so far to go
The signs are nowhere on this road guiding me home
When the night is closing in
It's falling on my skin
Oh God will You come close

Light, light, light up the sky
Light up the sky to show me You are with me
I, I, I can't deny
Oh I can't deny that You are right here with me
You've opened my eyes so I can see You all around me
Light, light, light up the sky
Light up the sky to show me You are with me

When stars are hiding in the clouds
I don't feel them shining
When I can't see beyond my doubt
The silver lining
When I've almost reached the end
Like a flood You're rushing in
Love is rushing in

Light, light, light up the sky
Light up the sky to show me You are with me
I, I, I can't deny
Oh I can't deny that You are right here with me
You've opened my eyes so I can see You all around me
Light, light, light up the sky
Light up the sky to show me You are with me

So I run straight to Your arms
You're the bright and morning Sun
To show Your love, there's nothing You won't do

Light, light, light up the sky
You light up the sky to show me You are with me
I, I, I can't deny
Oh I can't deny that You are right here with me
You've opened my eyes so I can see You all around me
Light, light, light up the sky
Light up the sky to show me You are with me

Oh oh oh oh oh oh
You are with me
Oh oh oh oh oh oh
You are with me
Oh oh oh oh oh oh

Lake Tahoe

2010-10-14T14:33:00.002-04:00

A week ago I was enjoying the view from this cliff overlooking Lake Tahoe, celebrating my sweet friend Anne as she was preparing for her wedding. It was a whirlwind of activity but oh so fun! More pictures and stories to come..

Cutest

2010-10-07T08:46:00.002-04:00

So this morning I was on facebook and an album of pictures came up that just made my heart fill with so much joy (and then subsequently sadness that I do not live closer to the wonderful people in the pictures!). But, just so you can share in some of my joy, isn't this the cutest boy ever...

Track #15 - How He Loves

2010-10-05T07:42:00.002-04:00

I've come to enjoy David Crowder Band with their simple sound yet profound lyrics. I've been listening to this song a good bit trying to wrap my head around the immense love of the Father that I'm not sure I'll ever fully understand.

How He Loves
by David Crowder Band

He is jealous for me, Loves like a hurricane, I am a tree,
Bending beneath the weight of his wind and mercy.
When all of a sudden, I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory,
And I realize just how beautiful You are,
And how great Your affections are for me.

And oh, how He loves us oh
Oh how He loves us,
How He loves us all

He is jealous for me, Loves like a hurricane, I am a tree,
Bending beneath the weight of his wind and mercy.
When all of a sudden, I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory,
And I realize just how beautiful You are,
And how great Your affections are for me.

And oh, how He loves us oh,
Oh how He loves us,
How He loves us all

He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.

And we are His portion and He is our prize,
Drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes,
If His grace is an ocean, we’re all sinking.
And heaven meets earth like an unforeseen kiss,
And my heart turns violently inside of my chest,
I don’t have time to maintain these regrets,
When I think about, the way…

That He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.
Yeah, He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.

Yeah, He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.

Molten Chocolate Cakes

2010-10-04T08:18:00.003-04:00

For the bachelorette party we had a nice dessert spread that consisted of strawberries, chocolate and sugar. Who wouldn't love that? We had chocolate covered strawberries and then some different "dips" for the plain berries that included homemade whipped cream, sugar, and a sour cream fruit dip. I also made some molten chocolate cakes. I found the recipe on Tasty Kitchen. They are mini cakes filled with ooey-gooey chocolaty goodness. The cake on the outside is perfectly most and the inside is a delightfully rich chocolate that is ready in under 20 minutes. They are best eaten right out of the oven with some homemade whipped cream.

Molten Chocolate Cakes
by Brandielle

Ingredients

•4 pieces (squares) Semi-sweet Baking Chocolate
•½ cups Butter
•1 cup Powdered Sugar
•2 whole Eggs
•2 whole Egg Yolks
•6 Tablespoons Flour
•2 cups Real Whipping Cream (seriously It's So Much Better!)
•2 Tablespoons Sugar

Preparation Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Spray 4 custard cups with cooking spray and place on cookie sheet.
Microwave chocolate and butter in large bowl on high for about 1 minute, until butter is melted. whisk until chocolate is also melted.
Stir in sugar until well blended. Whisk in eggs and egg yolks. Stir in flour.
Divide between cups.
Bake 13-14 minutes until sides are firm and center is soft. Let stand 1 minute.
Combine sugar and heavy cream and whip until stiff (it takes a few minutes, be patient!)
Invert cakes on dishes and top with whipped cream.

Joy Overflowing

2010-10-04T07:49:00.006-04:00

This past weekend I had the opportunity to celebrate some special friends. Saturday I made the trek back out to Conyers/Covington where I went to college and lead Young Life for 4 years to celebrate my friends Lisa and Zach as the got hitched! It was such a sweet ceremony, especially listening to the vows they had written to each other and watching them walk down the aisle to Bon Jovi. It was priceless! I also loved getting to see so many wonderful friends that I don't get to see nearly often enough. As I was driving to the ceremony I was on the phone with a friend who was also en route to the ceremony and we were discussing how much we miss the people. We miss the community that was shared with this great group of people over the years. We loved each well... most of the time... but it was with these people that I learned what it really meant to live in community and to be the body of Christ. We lived life together and did ministry together. We got on each others nerves, had many awkward moments and we embarrassed ourselves. We cried together, prayed together, laughed together and sometimes at each other. We loved high school kids together. We sat through countless hours of high school sporting events, lunches, plays, club and many sleepless nights at YL camp. We broke bread together and played hours of bocce and corn hole and redneck golf. It was a glimpse of "real life" and I am so thankful for it. It was a season of life that passed too quickly. But no matter how long in between seeing each other, anytime we have an excuse to get together the time is filled with sweet fellowship and laughter. And all of that to say, it was so awesome to be a part of Lisa and Zach's special day and I'm excited to walk through this next season of life with them.

I spent the rest of the weekend with my dear friends Anne and the Sig's. I am equally blessed to share life with another great body of believers. Sunday evening was a bachelorette party for Anne who is about to be married! Some wonderful ladies gathered for dinner and then dessert to celebrate Anne. We sat around a table full of great food and laughter, wisdom and encouragement. A blessing to know and share life with these godly women. To know that when someone says to me "I love you" they mean it with all their being and they live it to the best of their ability.

Words cannot express the joy that overflows to love and be loved.

Romans 12:9-10
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.

Focus

2010-09-30T11:05:00.003-04:00

Today, I need focus. This is from Give Us This Day by Charles Buckmaster

Help us O Lord, at all times, to do the things we
ought to do,
Grant to each one of us,
Clear sight, that we may know what to do,
Courage, to take the first steps,
Skill, to find a way through our difficulties as they
arise, Perseverance, to keep going till the task is
finished, Strength, to resist all temptations which
seek to divert our minds;

Help us to begin, to continue, and to end all things
in you....

O God, our Father, in the work we have undertaken to do, help us;
to work in your light
to act in your strength
to think in your wisdom
to speak in your truth
to live in your love

Help us to always remember our commitment to
serve others and support those in need.
Lord, what we know not, teach us
Lord, what we have not, give us
Lord, what we are not, make us, through Jesus
Christ, Amen.

Rummikub

2010-09-29T07:01:00.003-04:00

This past week has been a blur of activity. I spent 2 days helping some friends prep food and a site for a wedding and even pulled my sweet friend Linds who was visiting from out of town into the fray. Poor girl. She didn't know what she was getting herself into!

I'm so glad that Linds was able to spend almost a week in the Atl. And I'm glad I got to spend some quality time with her and with some other friends of ours who are on staff with YL. We didn't do anything particularly exciting - talk, eat, play games, sleep and repeat - but it was such sweet time with friends. I love sharing life with people. The conversations are always engaging and challenging even if they aren't all about happy things. The reality is that life is hard, often. And I am fortunate to be friends with honest folks who are willing to dive into the mess that is life and not pretend they have it all together all the time. But I am also equally fortunate that my friends can find hope and joy in something greater than their circumstances.

We spent a good bit of time playing games including a numbers game called Rummikub. It's similar to the card game rummy but it involves numbered tiles that are different colors. Anyway, as we were playing it was amazing how much of the game is really due to chance. You can't pick the tiles you want. Sometimes the first deal is a good hand and sometimes it's horrible and it doesn't seem like there is much that can be done with it. You just have to wait and keep picking up tiles until you have enough of them to make a move. In a strange way it was a great example of life. We are given things that we have to be a steward of and we can't always control how good or bad of a hand we are dealt. Sometimes you can make great moves right away and other times you have to be patient and keep drawing (on friends, on the truth of the Scripture, on prayer, on strength from the Lord) until you have enough to move. And sometimes you can play on the strength of others to help you along. It's a constant balance of being filled and pouring out. Sharing life. Knowing when to move and when to be patient.

Some more thoughts are swirling around my head that I'm still trying to get straight. Who knew a game with a silly name could teach me so much?

Something Special

2010-09-20T09:15:00.001-04:00

This past weekend I was talking with my friend about people we know who have exemplified real faith in the midst of trials and challenging situations. Specifically, our friend’s father who raised 4 godly men who showed tremendous faith and courage as their father battled cancer (more of their story here). And then my friend said that many have said the same of her as she and her husband have overcome some impossible challenges of their own. And I would wholeheartedly agree that she and her husband have demonstrated a powerful faith and trust in God ultimately being good and that all things are for His glory. Her response: I’m just a regular Christian. She went on to say that she isn’t doing anything special and that she doesn’t think a person can gain the sort of perspective or faith or trust that she has until you are in the midst of life’s impossible circumstances. I’d argue, however, that she’s been preparing her whole life for these challenges. I don’t think that kind of faith just appears out of nowhere – it is years of working at a relationship with Christ so that when the day arises to put it to the test, you are ready. After a little while of arguing I think I made her see my point :) she’s just so humble about her faith and that’s what makes it even more beautiful. But at the heart of it all she just wants to know God, love and be loved. And those are all true for her and her family. So much so that others experience the love and presence of Christ whenever they step foot into their home and break bread with them. It’s something that you can’t ever put words to. And it’s just who they are – sinful, broken people who are loved by God and are able to share that wealth of love with everyone they meet. It’s real and honest and beautiful. And I am blessed to be considered part of their family.

Elephants and Inside Jokes

2010-09-17T08:27:00.003-04:00

I recently got to spend an evening with an awesome friend I've known since 8th grade. In fact, for the 6 months or so that she was in the states and we were in class together, we were pretty much inseparable. I have fond memories of hours spent on the phone giggling about what 8th grade girls giggle about. She grew up in Costa Rica where her parents had started a church and they came back to the states for a few months. They eventually went back to Costa Rica for a time and then came back to the states once again when she was in high school, but to a different school. We saw each other a few times during that time and then off to college we went and we lost touch. Fast forward a few more years, and thanks to the wonder of facebook, we reconnected. Over the last year or so we've been able to talk more and get together when I make it home. I love that it doesn't seem like any time has passed. It doesn't seem that we missed years of each others lives since we can so easily pick up the conversation. And we still laugh a lot. Sometimes it's at the inside jokes we had when were kids and sometimes its about the irony of life. I love that people love to give her anything that is elephants and that started because of a joke that started between us years ago. I'm not even sure I remember the story all together. Or the dozens of other jokes that had to do with boys and Hansen and silly stories we invented. But I am thankful even more for the friendship we can now share. The time we can spend praying for each other and sharing the struggles and joys of this life.

Looks Like Love

2010-09-16T08:00:00.001-04:00

As I was thinking about all that I've been up to the last week... and the past few months, really, I'm reminded how much I am loved. I wish everyone could know the people that I know. I wish everyone could experience the kind of community that I have found here. And I wish everyone could experience the challenges and the encouragement and the great joy that comes from this kind of community. I was listening to the song "Looks Like Love" by Needtobreathe. The words are inspiring: "Our hearts can only shake, when there's risk that they could break, that's a chance that I will take". Living in community is hard. Loving others and allowing yourself to be loved by others means that you have to be vulnerable. There is a risk of being hurt. But that's also what makes it so beautiful. We weren't promised that things in this life would be easy, especially things worth having. We were just promised we'd never go it alone. And we are blessed to also be surrounded by a "church" or believers to share it with.

Tonight! Yes, Tonight!

2010-09-14T07:03:00.003-04:00

Last night was the kickoff for YL this school year. The school I am leading at has gone through lots of transitions in the last 3 years. We are on our third staff person and we are glad he has joined our group though I think the 3 leaders that have been around since the beginning are sad to see the others moving onto other things in their lives and pursuing other awesome opportunities. The transitions can always be a challenge. But we have a wonderful committee that is helping to sustain our area through the transitions. Last night our committee chair opened his home for 20-25 high school kids for the first club of the year. It was great fun filled with grape chucking, smores, magic tricks (who knew we had a legit magician in our midst?), music, and definitely lots of laughter! I'm excited for the year ahead and the chance to get to know these kids' stories.

1 Thessalonians 2:8

We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.

Book Review: Outlive Your Life

2010-09-10T15:03:00.005-04:00

Outlive Your Life

You Were Made to Make a Difference

By: Max Lucado

This is the latest book I received to review. I've always enjoyed Max Lucado's writing and this is one more book to add to the list of his books I'd recommend that you read. It's a fairly quick read with a thought-provoking message. You Matter. The things that you do can have a profound impact, even if you think you are only one person. Each chapter is filled with encouragement about living your life to its fullest potential and some ideas of ways to use your skills, talents, and resources for things bigger than yourself.

I think this book is a great place to start if you are feeling called or challenged to do more with your life. I've recently read some other books that carry the same theme but delve a little deeper into this idea of loving and serving others well - whether that be your neighbor next door or a child in Africa battling disease and poverty. I also think this would make a great small group book as the chapters are small and incite good discussion.

I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review; the opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Good Friends, Good Food

2010-09-09T09:27:00.004-04:00

Last night I was able to meet up a wonderful family that I met a few years back when I was on assignment at Southwind. Nicole and Mark have such wonderful hearts and our times together are always filled with laughter. And their sweet little girl shares the same joy in her smiles and laughter.

We met for dinner at this place called Ceviche in downtown Roswell. I have never been around this part of town before but there are all sorts of fun shops and restaurants. I will definitely be returning! Hopefully to again get together with Nicole and family.

We ate lots of tasty food, talked about life and the things we are doing these days, and just enjoyed each other's company. I love that we are able to stay in touch even when we aren't able to get together often. And it's been fun to see little Caroline grow up. She's at such a fun age and I can't wait until she's talking more and walking.

Whenever I am catching up with friends I often think that when I answer the question "what are you up to these days" that I don't have anything really exciting to share. However, this is how I spend my time. I work to earn my keep and spend the rest of my time investing in the lives of those I care about. It might not make for a great story, per se, but I just love sharing life with people. It's what I'm most passionate about and what brings me the greatest joy. And I can say it's far from "boring"!

The Good Samaritan

2010-09-08T06:45:00.005-04:00

My small group is going through a DVD series called "Start" by Michael Seaton. It brings together pastors and other influential Christians of the day to discuss different scripture. The first of these videos focuses on the Good Samaritan.

Luke 10:25-37 (from the Message translation):

Just then a religion scholar stood up with a question to test Jesus. "Teacher, what do I need to do to get eternal life?"

He answered, "What's written in God's Law? How do you interpret it?"

He said, "That you love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and muscle and intelligence—and that you love your neighbor as well as you do yourself."

"Good answer!" said Jesus. "Do it and you'll live."

Looking for a loophole, he asked, "And just how would you define 'neighbor'?"

Jesus answered by telling a story. "There was once a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. On the way he was attacked by robbers. They took his clothes, beat him up, and went off leaving him half-dead. Luckily, a priest was on his way down the same road, but when he saw him he angled across to the other side. Then a Levite religious man showed up; he also avoided the injured man.

"A Samaritan traveling the road came on him. When he saw the man's condition, his heart went out to him. He gave him first aid, disinfecting and bandaging his wounds. Then he lifted him onto his donkey, led him to an inn, and made him comfortable. In the morning he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, 'Take good care of him. If it costs any more, put it on my bill—I'll pay you on my way back.'

"What do you think? Which of the three became a neighbor to the man attacked by robbers?"

"The one who treated him kindly," the religion scholar responded.

Jesus said, "Go and do the same."

Our discussion together focused a lot on verse 27 which says to love God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind. It was a great exercise talking through the ways that are more comfortable or natural for me as I serve God and the ways in which it is much more challenging. For example, I love to invest time in people and learning their stories. This is something I am passionate about and therefore motivated to pursue. The heart aspect is totally there. However, there are times I find myself lacking greatly in the soul and strength department. I often have great ideas and passion but lack the motivation to do something. I think about how often I pass by people and do not engage them - whether it be in conversation or trying to help provide for a physical need like food for a homeless and hungry person. Or, there are times when I do not engage in prayer, the soul aspect, because I discount the power of prayer or I just get lazy because it seems that praying isn't really doing anything. As our group continued to think through these things it was striking how we really need to be using all of these to love God and serve others. When one or two pieces are lacking it almost seems pointless. It isn't. Serving God is never pointless. But how much more affective could we be if we really did love God with our ALL - heart/passion, soul/prayer, strength/muscle, mind/intelligence?

Jesus said, "Go and do the same."

Book Review: The Butterfly Effect

2010-09-07T08:05:00.006-04:00

The Butterfly Effect

How Your Life Matters

By: Andy Andrews

There are times when I reflect on my life and wonder if the things that I do or say matter. When I read the title of this book my curiosity was piqued - my life does matter and here is a book to explain why. The Butterfly Effect is a compact gift book filled with beautiful pictures, large text, and encouraging words about the interconnectedness of our lives. Andy Andrews uses real life examples of some famous, and some not-so-famous people, to illustrate how the choices that we make have far reaching effects. Often, farther reaching then we could have ever anticipated or imagined. There are consequences to our actions that have the potential to change the world.

I enjoyed reading through this book. It took only a few minutes because the text is large print and concise, but the author really gets his point across. It made me consider how my seemingly insignificant acts matter and can change the course of history. A great little reminder of how each person is important. This would make a great coffee table book. The pictures alone make it worth the read, not to mention the encouragement of the text.

I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review; the opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Where did it go?

2010-09-03T07:55:00.003-04:00

The week has flown by, despite lack of sleep and long hours at work that seemed to never end. There are quite a few people staying at our house this weekend. It's mostly Pam's family but my sister and cousin also came up. My sister, cousin, and I snuck out of the chaos last night and had dinner together. It was sweet time together, for sure, even though we talked about some hard things. Families aren't perfect and it seems that the people who you love most have the greatest capacity to cause hurt and disappointment. It breaks my heart to hear people I care about struggling with hard things, especially when I don't think there is anything I can do to bring any sort of comfort. The same is true of other friends I care about. So many people seem to be burdened by hard circumstances. And for better or worse I am a "doer" and always want to be able to fix things. Impossible combination really, but I'm learning to relinquish control of situations that I was never really in control of anyway.

That being said, there are also sweet moments of encouragement thrown in. Such as the news that my friends' sweet little girl was told she was "normal". It might not sound like a big deal but it may be the first time in her 2 years of life that someone described her as normal. And what a huge blessing and encouragement to hear my friends' praise God for his grace and healing in their little girl. Despite their circumstances, they have not failed to give glory to the one who is in control, who gives life, who can move mountains, and who showers us with grace and mercy. That is the sort of faith and trust that I want to have.

Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

2 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Track #14 - Your Love is Better than Life

2010-09-02T12:16:00.002-04:00

I've been listening to Fee a lot recently. Some great songs with even better lyrics. The title of this one comes from Psalm 63 which is a personal favorite of mine!

Your Love is Better than Life
By: Fee

It's too high to measure
it's too great a treasure
longer than forever
it's inconceivable

big enough to live in
deep enough to swim in
breathing out just to breathe in
its overtaken my soul

how high
how deep
how great is your love for me
its making my heart sing

Your love
your perfect love has found me
covers and surrounds me
your love is better than life
Your love
loved me first and saved me
rescued and it raised me
your love is better than life

it's coming down like rain
it's calling out my name
it's causing me to love the same
unconditional

how high
how deep
how great is your love for me
it's making my heart sing

Your love
your perfect love has found me
covers and surrounds me
your love is better than life
Your love
loved me first and saved me
rescued and it raised me
your love is better than life

Your love is better than life
King of love be glorified
your love has given me life
King of love be glorified

Your love
your perfect love has found me
covers and surrounds me
your love is better than life
Your love
loved me first and saved me
rescued and it raised me
your love is better than life

Your love is better than life
King of love be glorified
your love has given me life
King of love be glorified

Book Review: The Heavens Proclaim His Glory

2010-08-31T07:36:00.003-04:00

The Heavens Proclaim His Glory
A Spectacular View of Creation Through the Lens of the NASA Hubble Telescope
Compiled by Lisa Stilwell

I just received my latest book, The Heavens Proclaim His Glory, from Thomas Nelson. I tend to shy away from the gift books but this particular one piqued my interest because of these truly spectacular pictures from the Hubble Telescope. I have always been fascinated by space especially since I grew up near the Space Coast in Florida. The book presents page after page of pictures and plenty of history and explanation of the various constellations and galaxies and planets that are pictured. I love the details abou the Hubble Telescope construction and purpose and future plans as well as some information about the astronauts who work on it.

“I can see how it might be possible for a man to look down upon the earth and be an atheist, but I cannot conceive how he could look up into the heavens and say there is no God.” - Abraham Lincoln.

The true beauty of this book comes in all the scripture and quotations that accompany each picture. The title is absolutely appropriate for what you find inside. The scriptures perfectly enhance the message that the heavens do proclaim God's glory. And there are many contributions from prominant Christian leaders including Francis Chan, Franklin Graham, Max Lucado and Mike Huckabee. This would make a great coffee table book and would undoubtebly spark some great conversations about how God's greatness.

Blue Moon Cupcakes

2010-08-30T12:35:00.002-04:00

So below is the recipe created to incorporate some Blue Moon into cupcakes. They were a big hit though I'm working on how to increase orange flavor. But for now... these were delicious! Sorry, no pictures... forgot to take them before they were gone!

Blue Moon Cupcakes

Ingredients:
3/4 cup white sugar
1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons butter
2 eggs
1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Juice from half an orange
Zest from half an orange
1 cup and 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1-1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp. ground coriander
1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons blue moon beer

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease or line a muffin pan with paper liners.
In a medium bowl, cream together the sugar and butter. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla, orange zest, and orange. Combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon and coriander. Add to the creamed mixture and mix well. Finally stir in the beer until batter is smooth. Pour or spoon batter into the prepared pan. Makes about 9 cupcakes
Bake for 10-15 minutes or until golden and they spring back when touched.

Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients:
1 package(s) (8-ounce) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup(s) (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
Juice from half an orange
Grated orange zest from half an orange
1.5 oz Blue Moon beer
Confectioners' sugar (to taste)

Directions:
Blend the cream cheese, butter, orange juice, orange zest, and Blue Moon in a large bowl, using an electric mixer set at medium speed, until smooth.
Add the sugar a tablespoon at a time and continue to beat until light and creamy.

In HIS presence there is fullness of joy

2010-08-30T10:28:00.005-04:00

Psalm 16:11

You make known to me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy;
at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

This past weekend was another great glimpse into the abundant life we are promised. Truly, in His presence there is fullness of joy. And this weekend that meant being in the company of great friends, breaking bread together, laughing with one another, and sharing sweet conversations. Many of the conversations centered around the hard things in life, the struggles, the frustrations. And I realize that may not sound like "life abundant" but every person I talked to couldn't deny that these seasons in life are a good hard. Without them, the good, beautiful and blessed times wouldn't be so profound. How can you know how good good really is until you have experienced the opposite? How can you question God's faithfulness when you been in the valley and made it through to the other side? How can you question his love and his promises when you've experienced redemption? I find it impossible to deny that his love is better than life. (Psalm 63)

I spent the weekend at Sharptop going through ropes re-certification. The group in for the weekend was all the leaders from the Southeast Region so it was great to see many friends even if it was only briefly. Most of my time was spent on the ropes course doing rescues and getting a refresher on procedures and such. Sunday was the test and 6 of us were getting re-certed. I love that this group of us has been going through this each year for the past few years and our time together is always guaranteed to entertain. I also had some sweet conversation with our new trainer, Micah. She works for the group that does the national certification but has a Young Life background. We have some mutual friends and mutual life passions. In fact, I have a job she's always wanted and she has a job I've always wanted. Funny how that works but it made from some really good and encouraging conversations.

Sunday night was a great way to end the weekend. The Sig's hosted some friends for pizza, beer, and blue moon cupcakes and coconut cake. I wish I had some pictures from the evening... but Mike built a pizza oven and we had some wood fired pizzas that were delicious. I learned how to make dough, made more boozy cupcakes, and enjoyed sweet fellowship with friends. As always, it was an eclectic group. But food is a great way to bring people together. We spent the better part of the evening enjoying food and conversation. Stay tuned for the next event: 3rd Annual Oyster Roast... pirate themed... complete with eye patches. Yeah, I said it.

Thoughts for the day

2010-08-26T06:55:00.002-04:00

Each morning I get a couple of different devotional type emails sent to me. Sometimes it's just words on a page and other times the scripture seems to come alive and really speak truth to me. Today, I received these two pieces of scripture and thought they were worth sharing:

Hebrews 12:7-13
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?
If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons.
Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live!
Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness.
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees.
"Make level paths for your feet," so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.

Prayer from "8 Minutes":
Father, may I rejoice always in you. Thank you for being near. Help me not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving (yes, Father, may I be thankful in everything) present my request to you. And may your unimaginable peace that I can’t grasp guard my heart and my mind in you. (from Philippians 4:4-7)

Life, interrupted

2010-08-25T07:46:00.005-04:00

This past weekend was a whirlwind of activity - some anticipated and some definitely unexpected. But before I get into the details I just want to comment on God's grace that abounded this weekend. I am fortunate to be in the company of some of the most Godly men and women who, despite life's interruptions, never cease to give thanks, praise and all the glory to God. I have to just sit in awe of a God whose love is better than life and who calls us to give our lives away in order that we might find life abundant.

So the weekend - Friday started with my friend's sweet little girl being rushed to the hospital due to seizures that wouldn't stop, becoming unresponsive, being airlifted to the Children's hospital and finally being released later that night. I cannot begin to explain the emotional day that it was for me much less for her parents who exude a peace that cannot be explained (i.e. completely from the Lord). I spent the afternoon/evening at the hospital with them and was amazed that this little girl was happy and playful after the morning she had. After she was released we went to dinner and let's just say the conversation still has my mind spinning a bit. More on that later...

Ella trying to break out of the ER

Saturday I was working at camp. It is always hard to say goodbye to summer and the yearlong interns but it was fun to meet the new group of year longs. They are an outgoing and friendly bunch that I am excited to share life with over the coming year. The highlight of the day at camp was spending a few hours trying to get a tree limb off the zip lines. Let's just say it was an adventure but filled with laughter and great company.

Mark making his way down the zip line to remove the branch

Sunday I was up early to join a couple people from work on a rafting adventure down the Ocoee River. It was a 2 1/2 hour drive up to TN outside of Chattanooga. We embarked on a 3 hour rafting trip filled with lots of amusing moments. None of us fell out of the boat, though, so that's a plus. We had a great guide and a fun group in our boat. After the trip we had lunch at this place called the DAM Cafe with food named after dams all over the U.S. It was a quirky place with great food. Then it was a long drive home but also time for great conversations.

On a whim, I called my friend who lives about a mile from where I met folks from work to go rafting. Turns out she was on a walk so I joined in the fun and completely wore myself out. But, again, the conversation made it worth it. I love the honesty of life, even when it's filled with all sorts of interruptions that we don't ever fully anticipate.

God is good.