A Nickel For Your Thoughts

Ohio Summer 2009

2009-08-11T17:07:00.008-07:00

We visited our grandparents, aunts/uncles, and cousins in Ohio. Here are a few highlights.

When Lightning Strikes

2009-07-20T04:25:00.002-07:00

Every Sunday after church, we go to my parent's house for the most amazing lunch and a time to catch up as a family. Yesterday was no different. We had an amazing meal (Mel's last with us before her wedding) and were starting to get that "I-ate-so-much-I'm-going-to-crash" feeling. We were all standing in the kitchen (with dad on his crutches- broke his leg last week) when all of a sudden the brightest white light I have ever seen flashed and a LOUD CRASHING SOUND boomed, provoking all the women to scream! This very loud sound triggered the fire alarm and the alarms of other vehicles in the neighborhood. It was insane!! So, seeing as my dad was hopping around on two lightning rods, I volunteered to check the outside of the house while Doug checked the computer/electronics. I was walking outside when Doug joined me and we noticed something- the double garage door was warped! Lightning definitely struck my parents' house, and thankfully we were all standing in the kitchen and not touching anything. It exited through their garage, which in turn blew out their electronic garage door opening system. It was crazy! Let's just say we weren't feeling that stuffed-and-tired-needing-a-nap feeling anymore. Neighbors came over to see if we knew where it hit because their alarms went off too! What an afternoon...

ZuMbA!!!!

2009-06-29T06:39:00.003-07:00

I have a new hobby, and I LOVE it: ZUMBA! Zumba is an aerobic workout that combines international dance moves, kickboxing, and hip hop for an intense (and amazing!) cardio workout. The best part is that it is so fun, you don't even know you're working out! In fact, every time I go to class at the Y, time flies by! If you're interested in joining a Zumba class near you, simply go to zumba.com and you can find a local class to join. "Ditch the workout- join the party!"

"We're not in Kansas anymore!"

2009-05-28T06:30:00.002-07:00

We got back from a wonderful weekend in Hillsboro, KS (so cute!) celebrating Mindy's graduation and Mona's birthday. Here's a quick picture of Mona, Mindy, and me at Mindy's graduation party. I'll post more later on...

We're off to see the wizard...

2009-05-21T07:42:00.003-07:00

Okay, so maybe not to see the wizard necessarily, but we are going to Kansas tomorrow. We're going to see Doug's sis graduate from college! Pray that we don't go crazy on the road trip- we've never been on a road trip together (just us two) longer than 2 hours and this one will be almost 8. I'll post pictures when we get back.

My Dad, the Graduate

2009-05-18T09:51:00.010-07:00

My dad graduated from seminary yesterday! It was a very big day for him and our family. Here are a few pictures for those who couldn't be there.

My Hubby's Disappearing!

2009-05-14T05:22:00.001-07:00

Doug and I made a "lifestyle change" after this past Christmas and decided to start eating healthy and getting active (with some help from the Wii Fit). Since December 30, 2008, Doug's lost nearly 50 pounds! (I've lost 31.7 as of now, but I'm not posting a picture until I hit my goal...) Here's the picture I took of Doug two days ago for V7 website. Way to go, Honey!

Take Your Fish for a Walk

2009-05-06T05:54:00.003-07:00

Okay, so I know I haven't posted in a REALLY LONG time, but I couldn't resist this one.

As a child, I used to walk whatever pet I had at the time around our block since we didn't have a dog. My best friend and I put a dog harness and leash on her bunny. The best one though, was when the two of us took our small turtles (about 5" diameter) and tied yarn around their shells to make leashes. We then proceeded to walk around the block with them. Our turtles took ten steps, then we took ten large "people steps" until we finished walking around our half mile block.

But, I was never as crazy as this guy!

October 7, 2008- Three Years

2008-10-09T04:54:00.002-07:00

October 7th marked three years since Doug's first wife, S, passed away. Please be in prayer for her parents, brother/sis-n-law, Doug, and his family as they go through this time of remembering and sadness. Please pray that God would continue to work mightily in their lives, as they each continue to work through this grieving process. Pray that they would see the amazing HOPE that is found in Christ, and be reminded of His sovereignty despite difficult circumstances. It is with great anticipation that I look forward to the day when I will get to meet her- my sister in Christ- in heaven, and praise His name together!

The Dangers of Page-Turning

2008-09-30T04:47:00.001-07:00

A couple weeks ago, I joined a community/city choir that rehearses at a large church downtown. Being a newcomer, I was asked if I read music and would be willing to turn pages for the piano accompanist once every two months. Naturally, I said "yes." I had no idea it could be such a dangerous job.

I arrived at rehearsal last night at 6:45 so that I could meet the pianist (she's amazing!) and get situated before our 7pm rehearsal. As usual, rehearsal began with our director at the piano for warm-ups. Once he was done, I made my way to the front of the room. Rather than navigate between the chairs that were blocking the side pathway to the piano, I stepped in the hallway to re-enter the room near the piano. There was another lady in the hallway. She was waiting to enter as well. She had a t-shirt that said "Camp Alexander" which caught my attention. She entered the room first and I followed, only to realize that she was walking straight for the piano too. The pianist had beat us both, and she looked at us and glared. ("What are you looking at me for? I am supposed to be here!" was my thought.) I politely told the lady that I had been asked to turn pages. At this point, I witnessed (VERY up close and personal, might I add) a very scary sight. This late-60's aged woman got nose-to-nose with me and said "I will be turning the pages!" to which I replied "Oh- I had just received a phone call asking me to turn pages today." At this point, she got even more scary- "I have been turning her pages for FOURTEEN YEARS!" (Meanwhile, all 100 choir members were watching and listening- with wide eyes.)

I looked at her in disbelief thinking "You have got to be kidding me! It's all yours, lady!" I picked up my belongings and proceeded to sit with my section. No sooner had I left the piano that the board members (yes, this choir has board members- the choir started in the 1970's) all stood up. As soon as I was seated, the head board member asked every one to "Please stick with your section leader and evacuate the room. They will do a head count of their sections once everyone has left the room."

What?! Evacuate the room? Well, the little man who was next to me kept talking about a bomb (um, BOMB?) and everyone was grabbing their belongings and booking it out of the room. Once we were out and down the hallway (it's a long hallway), one of the board members stopped us to explain what was going on. Apparently, my "friend" had been asked to leave the choir and told not to return last year, or else the police would be called. She had made threats againsts various choir members and written nasty letters. They said she had a mental problem (NO JOKE!). She had been known for going ballistic one more than one occassion, and had threatened to attack.
Since there was a large concert going on in the sanctuary of the church, they decided to evacuate all of us from the room and leave a few board members in the room to try to talk her into leaving so that they didn't have to call the police.

All I know is that after 10 minutes in the hallway, they took us all back to our rehearsal room, and I was asked once again to turn pages. I never knew that turning the pianist's pages could be such a dangerous job!

A year ago today...

2008-07-22T07:52:00.005-07:00

Time flies when you're having fun!

I love you, Honey! This has been the most amazing year, and I can't wait to see what God has in store for our future!

The Royal Gorge

2008-06-15T19:05:00.008-07:00

We went to the Royal Gorge with my aunt, uncle, & cousins from Ohio along with my parents. (Sorry you had to work, N!) We walked across the bridge, rode the train, hiked, went to the petting zoo, rode the red cable car, and had an awesome time this weekend! We miss you Lee family!

Camping June '08

2008-06-15T18:49:00.006-07:00

We went camping the first weekend in June up at Estes Park. While we were there, we visited the Stanley Hotel, where the movie The Shining was filmed. We had some great weather and a beautiful tent site. We were with our friends L & D and they brought their dog, Ginger. We also brought our two dogs, which was a little crazy at times. It was a ton of fun!

N's Graduation

2008-06-15T18:46:00.002-07:00

I know, this has taken forever. Here are some pics of my sis' HS graduation. She's all grown up! Doug got to read her name as she walked across the stage to get her diploma.

Introducing the Prestonator

2008-05-18T18:54:00.004-07:00

Last week we got another dog! His name is Preston and he is a 7 month old mini schnauzer. He and Bailey (our standard schnauzer) are best friends already. They play together, chew bones together, play tug-of-war, and sleep together. Enjoy the pictures! (Thank you again for Preston, Todd & Suzy!)

Happy 18th Birthday, Little Sis!

2008-04-10T06:09:00.004-07:00

It's amazing how fast my amazing "little" sister has grown-up! (Seven years younger yet seven inches taller!) She is one of my best friends and I am so proud of the godly woman she has become.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Kiddo!

My Birthday in Breckenridge

2008-03-29T12:45:00.006-07:00

Family Pic (minus Doug)

2008-03-11T07:55:00.002-07:00

This family pic (Doug's taking the picture) was from my dad's birthday last month. Thought it was a good current one to post.

The dog formerly known as Schnauz.

2008-03-10T04:45:00.009-07:00

Doug told me that we could adopt a dog for my birthday (an early present)! We've been wanting to for a while but couldn't due to the rules at the rental where we were living. So Friday, we drove out of town to a humane society shelter and adopted the dog formerly known as Schnauz. (I know, the shelter had such an original name for her!) She is a one year old standard schnauzer who is just the cutest thing ever! She is a wonderful dog already: she doesn't bark, is only hyper when you rile her up, can walk on a leash, gets along with all other dogs, and loves to snuggle! The only downfall is that she isn't potty trained since she's basically lived in different shelters her short little life. We just love her! She's been through a lot this past week with lots of shots, microchipping, and now today she'll get spayed, but she's really adjusting well and has only had one accident in the house! We named her Bailey because it sounds Irish. Here is the newest member of our family!

Our New House

2008-03-10T04:05:00.018-07:00

Here are a few pictures of our new house. Unfortunately, I didn't have time to rotate the first two pics...

Homeowners!

2008-02-28T05:59:00.003-07:00

It's finally official! As of yesterday at 3:45pm, Doug and I are officially homeowners! WOO HOO! We started moving boxes in yesterday (thanks to Mel and Ross) and I am so excited. Of course, it will be great when the whole moving thing is done, but it's fun in its own way as well. I promise to post pictures very soon! (I forgot to take my camera yesterday.) Thanks for all your prayers and encouragement while we went through this process.

Packing and Moving

2008-02-20T09:38:00.003-07:00

Our condo is a total wreck! We've been packing like crazy, as we're moving into our new house on Friday, Feb. 29. We close on the house Wed., Feb. 27. (The house inspection went really well!) We are so excited! It's awesome to see how God has worked to bring everything together. I'll be sure to take pictures next week when we are officially homeowners! Thanks for your prayers.

Holding Our Breath...

2008-02-04T08:22:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the long hiatus from blogging! We've been very busy with our house hunting. We've been on a three month emotional rollercoaster, but it looks like things are coming together! As of Friday, it looks like the most recent offer we placed on a house was accepted by the sellers! YAY! This is especially good because we love this house more than the other one that we put an offer on, and it is in move-in condition. So now we wait and pray, as the house needs to pass inspection on Thursday afternoon. Our closing date is Feb. 27, so we'll see what happens! Please keep us in your prayers and we try to maintain sanity and get all the details worked out. We know God is in control, though, and that He has a perfect plan!

Let the house hunt begin!

2007-12-04T09:01:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, Doug and I got pre-approved for our home loan. Now we 'just' need to find the house. We're hoping to close on our house at the end of January, so hopefully this will be a smooth process for us. We'll start looking at houses tomorrow with our realtor. I've been researching the homes in our area that are for sale for a few months now, so we have some good ideas about what we're looking for. We'll keep you posted!

Dancing Elves

2007-11-26T08:01:00.000-07:00

Here are some elves dancing: Nicole, Mindy, and Doug. http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=9608698545

(Courtesy of OfficeMax: www.elfyourself.com)

Black Friday Madness!

2007-11-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

For those of you who do not know what Black Friday is, it is one of the most wonderful days of the year! It is the day after Thanksgiving, and earned its name because it is considered the day that makes or breaks a store's financial earnings for the year.

It has become a family tradition to participate in the Black Friday shopping frenzy, and this year was exciting! (We missed you, Aunt Cheri.)

Doug and two of his buddies decided they wanted to camp out at Best Buy this year. On Thanksgiving night, my parents drove by Best Buy and saw that there were already 7 tents there and it was only 8pm! So, Natalie and I grabbed the tent (she spent the night with us) and booked it over to the store. We then proceeded to pitch the tent (which I'm sure was hysterical to watch!) while Doug grabbed sleeping bags, etc., at the house. Then, Doug showed up and we sat with him for an hour while his friends made their way over. (Lars came from out of town.) This waiting part was a difficult task in an of itself though, as it was only 15 degrees out side!

Once Lars and Ross showed up, Nat and I headed back and made the guys grilled cheese sandwiches and filled up a container of boiling water and tea, hot chocolate, and cider and took it over, along with a few other things they wanted. All in all, they had blankets, pillows, food, chairs, laptops to watch movies, and a portable space heater! Quite the set up...

Natalie and I went back to my place and slept for 2.5 hours and then got up a 2:30 am and made muffins for the guys. We dropped them off and stood in line at JCPenney which opened at 4am. We were out of JCPenney by 4:20am and made our way up town to SuperTarget where we were numbers 11 & 12 in line and waited till they opened at 6am in the 9 degree weather. We pulled out our camping chairs and flannel comforters and huddled up for the wait. It was good we got there early though, because by the time the doors opened, the line went all the way down the parking lot and had at least 200 people in it! We literally ran down the aisles and grabbed/fought for what we needed. We got everything on our lists!

We also went over to the mall and got a few good deals, although we weren't as impressed with the deals as we were in years past. (I still think the deals in Ohio were always the best!)

At least Natalie didn't get ran over by a crazy lady with a shopping cart like she did last year at Target! Overall, it was a very fun but extremely tiring and cold day! Can't wait till next year. :)

Pictures from the Weekend

2007-11-15T19:19:00.000-07:00

Here are some more pics from our little trip to Greeley/Loveland this past weekend (although the first two are from Sunday in front of our door). Enjoy!

"The Amazing Race" ?!?

2007-11-13T06:07:00.000-07:00

Okay, so Doug and another high school teacher and friend have decided that they are going to apply for CBS' 13th season of "The Amazing Race." (http://alpha.cbs.com/primetime/amazing_race12/) It is so funny because Doug talks about it ALL the time as if he has already been chosen from the thousands of applicants to be on the show! For example, I have heard each of the following statements in the last two weeks, "I'm going to start running to get in shape for when I'm on 'The Amazing Race'," "Are you going to stay at your parents' house while I'm gone for 'The Amazing Race,'" "When Ross and I win 'The Amazing Race' we can buy a house!"

It's cute to see him get so excited about this. I hope he can at least make it to the first round of cuts in Dallas. Today in the CSCS chapel, they are going to tape the whole high school cheering for them for their application video. Doug even started a Facebook group called "Tharp and Bray for The Amazing Race." I think it has about 125 members already.

There application is due Nov. 27, so I'll keep you guys posted if I here anything. I just hope Doug doesn't get his hopes crushed; but at the same time- I think its great to be excited!

Lindsey's Wedding

2007-11-13T05:59:00.000-07:00

One of Doug's best friends growing up got married last weekend. We drove up to Windsor for the weekend to be there and attend her wedding. We had a great time and were able to see some other friends too. (Plus, we stayed in a great hotel with the most comfortable bed EVER!)
Lindsey's wedding was a wonderful worship service to God. Lindsey is a strong Christian, who has been called to minister to "hippies" at Rainbow Gathering meetings, etc., with a group of Christian hippies. She had a beautiful wedding and wore a traditional wedding gown (I was expecting something more hippy-ish).

Lindsey and her husband Kenny shared their first kiss ever in their ceremony. It was cute because her bridesmaids stood around her and held their flower bouquets in front of Lindsey and Kenny's faces so that they could have a 'private' first kiss.

It was such a wonderful and relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of our crazy everyday schedules. It was also a great reminder that no matter how busy life gets, Doug and I always have to prioritize our time to spend time in the Word and with each other as our top priority.

People Magnets

2007-10-23T05:47:00.000-07:00

Doug and I have an uncanny ability to attract the strangest of people into our conversations. We will be out and about, minding our own business and talking between us, and lo and behold, some stranger will magically appear and butt into our conversation.

Yesterday afternoon we had what was perhaps our strangest experience yet.

We were walking through Target, looking at the mens' sports apparel (go, Rockies!). Doug mentioned something to me about hanging out with another teacher during sixth period (their free period), when this lady appears (no clue where she came from) and starts making comments about how he sounds like her son and that he should be in class and paying attention. At this point, I turned around and told her he IS the teacher and that it is his free period.

And that, my friends, was where I messed up. Because I spoke to this lady, she felt the need to continue in conversation with us. And she didn't stop. Naturally, she hit on Doug's #1 pet peeve and said, "I can't believe you're a teacher! You look young enough to be my son!"

Doug and I were in shock, as she followed us through the mens' sportwear department, down the aisle, past the children's clothes ("I think my son can get one more year out of his snow pants!"), and almost to the home furnishings- all the time talking! I didn't think we'd be able to get rid of her- AND we were ignoring her the whole way. So here we are, just walking down the aisle through various departments, with some strange woman following us, having a one-way conversation about all kinds of things. CRAZY! (We finally lost her in boys clothing, and promptly made a beeline for the grocery section!)

Doug and I have commented many times about all the strange people who like to butt into our conversations, like the time we met Christian at Starbucks (I think he was high…), who made me read a passage from the Bible about the Prov. 31 woman to the entire coffee shop (ironically, I saw Christian three more times at different Starbucks across town), or the little old white man who tried to convince us that we (the human race) were once entirely black, or the woman who came out into the parking lot at the mall and asked me what I did with her car; BUT- we've never met anyone as crazy as this woman, who followed us all the way through Target. We must be people magnets...

A Busy Life

2007-09-10T04:37:00.000-07:00

Lately, we have been very busy! That is why I haven't been updating my blog like I would like. Two weeks ago, we went camping for the weekend at Horsetooth Reservoir with three other couples that Doug was good friends with in college. We had a great time, even though we both got sunburnt! The weather was wonderful, and it was a relaxing weekend.

Last week was Doug's birthday (on Labor Day). I suprised him and took him to Breckenridge for a couple days. We got to see the 20th annual Rubber Duck Race down the river, which was neat. There were over 10, 000 ducks! (We had never heard of it before.) We also got to ride the chair lift at the ski resort and go down the Alpine Slide which was really fun.

This past weekend, we cleaned and got our new furniture delivered. Our new furniture meant that our coffee table didn't work in the living room, which meant that we practically re-arranged the whole house! We also went to the high school soccer game and a suprise birthday party for a friend. Last night, we kicked off the kids' choir musical and had a GREAT turnout. 91 kids are registered so far, with more to come. I have almost half of the kids registered between the three choirs, with 40 of them in my choir alone! I'm very thankful for my volunteer helpers!

So, that's what we've been up to lately. I'll try to get some pictures posted one of these days.

"Christmas in Egypt"

2007-08-23T10:54:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited about directing kids' choir this year at church! We are going to do a full-out Christmas musical called "Christmas in Egypt" by Kathie Hill. Children ages 4 through the sixth grade will be participating. (I am directing the 1st through 3rd graders.)

Please be praying that we get a sufficient number of volunteers as rehearsals begin on Sunday, Sept. 9. We are changing things up this year. We used to have choir on Wednesdays from 5:45-6:30, and now we are going to meet on Sundays from 6-7:30. This is the first kids musical we've done at Village Seven Pres. We will be working with a guy who has been doing kids' musicals for over 16 years.

I'll keep you all posted throughout the next few months as we practice, learn dance choreography, and sing our hearts out.

The World Of Facebook

2007-08-17T05:26:00.000-07:00

I know, I know- I'm a little behind the times. I just joined the Facebook community. I must say though, it is pretty neat how a website can allow people who haven't talked in many years (and maybe never really knew each other) to catch up on life. (I'm not exactly sure that the 'catching up' goes very deep, but it is 'catching up' nonetheless.) I mean really, how else would you come across that old friend from middle school and find out that he is working for a law firm in China?

So, if you have a Facebook account, be sure to look me up and add me to your friends. Also, I've heard that the group "Tharping it up 24/7" is pretty cool, too! :)

Professional Wedding Pictures

2007-08-10T07:10:00.000-07:00

My photographer, Brad Walters (www.bradwaltersphoto.com), met with us yesterday to show us a slideshow of all 506 of our wedding pictures. If you would like to check them out, here's the link: http://bradwaltersphoto.com/NicoleDougWed/index.html. (Don't try to order pictures just yet, as that part hasn't been activated yet.) Brad's assistant for the day was Diane from Apex Images in Denver (http://www.apeximages.com/). They both did a great job! Thanks guys!

A Few Wedding Pictures

2007-08-03T04:29:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures that my mom took on the wedding day. The top one is my favorite so far, and our photographer Brad Walters took it during our first dance.

Pictures: Wedding Week, Wedding Day, and Cancun

2007-08-01T07:49:00.000-07:00

I've started posting pictures on my new photo website. There's an album of pictures from the week of the wedding that various family members took. My mom took the pictures on the wedding day album (way to go, Mom!). Most of them were taken while our photographer was doing our shoot, so we're not really looking at the camera on these... There is also a LARGE album of pictures from our honeymoon in Cancun! :) I hope to upload our Ireland pictures on there sometime this week as well.

Doug and I are doing well. He is getting his classroom ready for school, and we're both working to get our place in order. Married life is the best!

Cancun!

2007-07-24T08:17:00.000-07:00

We´re here in Cancun safe and sound! We`ll write again when we get home!

Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Tharp

My Last Week of Singlehood

2007-07-16T08:12:00.000-07:00

My last week of singlehood has begun, and it is off to a roaring start! This week is going to be incredibly busy and incredibly exciting!! This time next week, I will be on a plane on my way to the beautiful beaches of Cancun...

Today we will meet with our amazing photographer, Brad Walters, and firm up everything for Sunday. (Check out our engagement slideshow: http://bradwaltersphoto.com/NicoleandDougENG/index.html)

Tuesday, my mom's side of the family flies in, followed by my dad's side on Wednesday. Doug's parents and sis fly in on Thursday (and his dad's family will drive here), along with my bridesmaid RiLee. Friday, my bridesmaid Miranda and Doug's mom's side will get here. Saturday will be very exciting with my bridal brunch, nail appointments, and the rehearsal dinner/rehearsal.

Then, on Sunday is the BIG DAY!! Woo hoo- only 6 more days to go until I am Mrs. Douglas Tharp!!!! (I LOVE YOU honey!!!)

ONLY 11 MORE DAYS!!!

2007-07-11T06:19:00.001-07:00

I can hardly believe that there are only 11 more days till the wedding!! WOW! Last week felt pretty stressful, but things are much more relaxed this week. Our goal is to have 99.9% of everything done by this weekend so that we can just relax and enjoy time with out-of-town family and friends next week. (They start coming on Tuesday!)

Tomorrow night I'm going to have a 'bow-tieing' party with some of my girlfriends. We're going to watch a chick-flick and tie about 600 bows (hopefully!). There are bows for the wedding programs, the wedding bubbles, and the wedding favors!

Do any of you know of a good salon in the Springs that I can set up appointments for manicures and pedicures for the bridal party?

Please continue to keep us in your prayers!

Back from Ireland!

2007-07-04T16:39:00.000-07:00

It looks like I finally have a little time to post! We got back from N. Ireland a week ago today, and I haven't really had a time to catch my breath. Our trip was awesome and the team did a great job. It was amazing to see God's hand at work in our hearts and the hearts of the youth in N. Ireland.

During the week, we visited different elementary and high schools. For the elementary schools, we did skits, songs, etc., during their assemblies. For the high school, we were able to teach their religion classes. (Yes, there are mandatory religion classes in the public schools in Northern Ireland!)

In the evenings, we conducted a week long "camp" called Summerfest at the church (First Pres in Saintfield). We had an awesome time learning how to play 'real' football (aka soccer), and just hanging out. We also did organized games in the gym, sang praise songs, did skits, and had a nightly speaker and a nightly testimony. The nightly talks and testimonies were done entirely by the teens on our team, and they did a fantastic job! God was definitely moving through them.

Here are a few of the many, many pictures I took. Please continue to pray for the youth in Northern Ireland, as they work to meld their 'new' youth group together. Also pray for us, as we keep in touch via email and letters to maintain the long-term relationships that were built.

Off to Northern Ireland!

2007-06-12T07:30:00.000-07:00

Hey guys,

Tomorrow morning (Wed.), Doug, Natalie, and I leave for Northern Ireland. Please keep us in your prayers. Pray for safe travel, good health, unity with the team, and for God to speak through us during these 2 weeks. Also pray that He would work in our hearts to bring us closer to Him.

I'm really excited to go, although I do feel a little pressured with wedding stuff. When we get back we will only have 3 weeks till the wedding!!! HOORAY!

Thank you for your prayers. I will post pictures of our trip once I return.

(The pastor we will be working with in Ireland has a blog. He might even get an update or two about our trip posted while we're still there. Here's the link: http://livingloud.typepad.com/. )

It's been a while...

2007-05-30T04:52:00.000-07:00

I've been pretty busy lately (imagine that)! Two weekends ago, I was a bridesmaid in my friend's wedding in Phoenix. It was really fun to catch up with girlfriends from college and get ideas for my own wedding!

This past weekend, Doug and I traded in my cute little car and got a mid-sized SUV ('07 Hyundai Santa Fe). We had so much snow last year that my dad had to take me to work multiple times (and dig Doug's Camry out), so we decided we needed an SUV. We both really like it- we've been taking turns driving it! :)

We also attended the high school graduation ceremony this past weekend as well. It was a nice ceremony. Doug had to sit with the teachers, but I was able to find one of my friends to sit with. We also went to a really nice dinner at Biaggis for James, one of Doug's (former) students who will be a groomsmen in our wedding. It was super-fun.

I hope to post some more pictures soon. I should have pictures of my bridal shower, RiLee's wedding, and our new car before too long... I can't believe we leave for N. Ireland two weeks from today, and get married in only 53 days!!!!!!!!!!!! Wow!

Update...Kinda...

2007-05-16T04:43:00.000-07:00

Well, not too much has been going on here. I'm working away at getting all the wedding invitations addressed- almost finished! Tomorrow I leave for Phoenix for one of my college roommate's weddings. (I'm going to be a bridesmaid in hers and she'll be one in mine!) I'm really excited to get to catch up with old friends, and support my friend on her special day.

We leave for N. Ireland in less than a month, and I can't believe how much I have to get done before I leave! (We get back just 3 weeks before the wedding!)

Well I guess that's it! Only 67 more days to go!!!!!

So what do May showers bring?

2007-05-07T04:46:00.000-07:00

This morning, it is not only raining, but it is snowing. (Yes- snowing.) There wasn't any snow at my house, but by the time I made my 13 mile trip to work, there was 3-4 inches of snow on the ground. (My office is at a higher elevation than my house...) So if April showers bring May flowers, I wonder what May (snow) showers bring...

Speaking of showers, I had my bridal shower on this past Saturday. It was so much fun, and a lot of my friends came. There were people represented from every generation: from age 6 to age 86! It was a BLAST!!!

Please pray for me when you get the chance. Doug and I both got food poisoning last week from some mahi-mahi fish that we ate at a local restaurant. Doug got over his a lot faster than me. Apparently, the toxins from food poisoning can stay in your system for 1-2 weeks. BLAH! On Friday, I passed out at the movie theater (waiting in line) which was quite interesting- I didn't have enough sugar in my system. Needless to say, I've been drinking juice since that episode. I just want this to be over... I really appreciate your prayers.

Well, the wedding is just around the corner! Two and a half months... WOW- there's A LOT to do! :)

You know you're tired when...

2007-05-03T07:08:00.000-07:00

So as most of you know, my work shift starts at 5am. This morning, I was really tired when I got into work. Following my normal routine, I proceeded to record my daily voicemail message.

Here's what I said:

"Thank you for calling Zurich Utilization Review. You've reached the desk of Nicole Alexander. Today is Thursday, May 3, and I will be in the office until 2pm. Please leave your name, phone number, and a brief message and I'll return your call as soon as possible. In Jesus' Name Amen."

Yes, I did record my message with the "in Jesus' name amen" part! Ha ha ha! Needless to say, I re-recorded my message (after I sat down and laughed).

Only 79 days to go!!!!! :)

Pictures from Mindy's Concert

2007-04-26T04:46:00.000-07:00

My former roomie from college, Mel, visited last week and weekend. (She's a recruiter for Covenant and came all the way from GA to recruit at some Christian schools here.) Mel, Doug, and I went to Denver to see Doug's sis-Mindy- play in a symphonic band concert. (She was traveling with her band from college in KS.) It was so much fun! We took some pictures outside of the church while the band was practicing before the concert.

PiCtUrEs!!!

2007-04-17T04:33:00.000-07:00

Goofing around... (Imagine that!)

My Birthday...

Me and Mindy (my future sis-in-law)

Doug and his sis, Mindy

I decided to post some over-due pictures. Some of them are from a few months ago, and some are from this past weekend. Enjoy!!

Details, Details, Details...

2007-04-16T04:09:00.000-07:00

It is starting to feel like all the "little" details aren't so "little" anymore... I have been working on compiling all the addresses for invitations and save-the-date cards. I've also been trying to work on getting deposits, etc., paid off.

I helped my flower girl and her mom pick out her dress last week- she is so adorable! She loved trying on all the dresses and modeling- although, she was determined that a white hat with a pink bow was a must! :)

Natalie got her bridesmaid dress worked out. The rest of my bridesmaids should have theirs ordered this week.

This past weekend, I played the piano for a friend's wedding, which was fun. I was in planning mode, so I got some ideas from her wedding. Next month, I fly to Phoenix for one of my bridesmaid's weddings to be a bridesmaid in her wedding. I can't wait!

Well, I guess that sums up some of the details. Please pray that I do not get overwhelmed and that I can stay organized and focused!

Only 97 more days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"I'm dreaming of a white Easter!"

2007-04-09T04:06:00.000-07:00

Yep, that's right! We had snow on Saturday and Sunday this weekend. It didn't get above 30 degrees. Pretty crazy... It is supposed to melt off today though.

Doug and I didn't get anything else done on the wedding this weekend (other than the photographer) since we are working on getting our Ireland support letters out to church people this week.

But, only 104 DAYS LEFT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Photographer!

2007-04-07T14:06:00.000-07:00

We found our photographer! YAY!

Check out his website (www.bradwaltersphoto.com). I especially like the part where he talks about himself and his calling from God! Plus, he has BEAUTIFUL pictures!

Registering...

2007-04-02T04:39:00.000-07:00

Doug and I finally got around to registering this weekend. We only spent two hours at Target (although I'm sure Doug thought it was longer), and one hour at Bed, Bath, and Beyond. (And yes, Heather, I referred you when I set up the registry so you should get that coupon...)

We also registered at American Furniture Warehouse (www.afwonline.com). This registry is a little different, because we don't have to pick out items for our registry. Instead, people put money into our account, and then we pick out the furniture we want. Then, the money left over in the registry (if there is any) is given to us as cash.

Nothing else really exciting this past weekend... Doug has to head back to teaching and seminary this week after his spring break, so pray that he adjusts well.

Only 111 more days...!!!

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

2007-03-29T10:36:00.000-07:00

Yep, it's snowing! It isn't anything bad (the snow isn't even sticking to the ground), but it is snow nevertheless. I am always amazed by the Colorado weather!

I am so excited to get to marry Doug! God is SO good. 115 days to go!!

Here's a picture of Doug and I before we started dating:

My Wedding Dress

2007-03-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

We salute you, Lady Liberty!

Invitations

2007-03-26T08:21:00.000-07:00

Well, after a few frustrating encounters with the computer, we have finally ordered our wedding invitations! I'm so glad to mark that one off the list.

Guess what? 118 days to go!! :)

Our Cake- a God Thing!

2007-03-26T04:23:00.000-07:00

So Saturday, Doug and I had an appointment with another baker. The bakery was so cute and the pictures of cakes we looked at were amazing. This baker definitely had the best prices in town, too. As we were looking at cakes he had made before, I noticed one of my friends in one of the pictures. Then, it clicked: our baker was my friend's brother! How cool! His cake was by far the best we've tasted. (Plus, he gave us a discount due to our connection.) Doug can't wait for everyone to see his groom's cake- we're not giving out any details, so you'll have to come see it (and eat it)! We paid off our cakes in full- yet another thing to check off the list!

http://www.springsheart.com/docs/menu_cakes.html

$200 Floral Delivery Charge?!?

2007-03-23T04:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went into a florist shop that one of my friends is using for her wedding next month. The lady there got a form out to start the appraisal process. The first thing she said was, "Let's see, a Sunday wedding means a $200 delivery charge..." I looked at her in disbelief, then promptly told her that I had another florist who wouldn't charge me for delivery, and left the shop.

I will most likely stick with Bijou Gardens downtown. The lady is really nice and very accomodating. Of course, her flower arrangements were beautiful!! (Not to mention, she has the best price!) Here's her website: http://www.bijougardens.com/.

Guess what?! We have officially passed the fourth month mark! Let the countdown continue!

Mexico Here We Come!

2007-03-22T04:22:00.000-07:00

I am so excited- Doug booked our honeymoon last night, and we are going to CANCUN! We are staying at an all-inclusive resort, which means we pay one price which includes our room, all of our meals (three a day), snacks anytime we want, and 24 hour room service. It is a really nice resort- I'm so glad Doug found the best! (We'll get there four months from tomorrow!)

In search of a photographer...

2007-03-20T04:27:00.000-07:00

Alright, I'm looking for a photographer again. I know it is going to work out! :)

122 days to go!!!! Time is flying already... :)

Another Picture of Me and My Love

2007-03-16T04:12:00.000-07:00

(Another pic for my out-of-town family...)

The Reception

2007-03-15T04:13:00.000-07:00

Everything came through for the reception location! It will be in Leonard Hall at my church, Village Seven Pres (www.v7pc.org). We even got permission to have the groom and bride dance, dad and daughter dance, and mom and son dance! It is so amazing to see God work out the details.

The next project: invitations... :)

Reception Details...

2007-03-13T12:50:00.000-07:00

It looks like the reception is going to come together as planned! I'll provide more details once things are firmed up tomorrow.

130 days to go!

A Fun Picture

2007-03-13T04:03:00.000-07:00

The Perfect Bridesmaid Dresses!!!

2007-03-12T11:38:00.000-07:00

Okay, I found the most beautiful bridesmaid dresses EVER!

Check it out!

When Technology Goes Awry...

2007-03-12T05:08:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, my work shift begins at 5am, which is no easy task on a Monday morning, let alone a Monday morning after a time change. Today I actually arrived at work a whole ten minutes early! I was so proud of myself. Apparently however, I should have stayed in bed for another hour.

When I arrived at work, all the other 5 o'clock employees were sitting in their cars, while one lady stood at the front door swiping her badge (this is how we get into the building) over and over and over. When she saw me pull up, she came out to my car and told me that they did not update the main doors to reflect the time change. Everyone was asking me what to do since I was the only supervisor there.

Unfotunately, our security guard is on vacation this week. The man the company sent in her place did have any badges or keys. (Go figure!) I called the security company and they came out with their "master badge" which could not open the door. So I called my boss (who was at home asleep as he is off today), and told everyone to go get coffee, etc., and come back at 5:45. And sure enough, the doors opened at precisely 5:45... Oh the joys of technology! :)

The Little Details (and One Big One...)

2007-03-09T05:25:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted yet this week because I haven't had any big updates. We are still trying to figure out invitations. We're also looking around at bakeries for a cake. (We have a cake taste test today at Boonzaaijer's- www.dutchpastry.com. Yummy! Doug's really excited about that part. :) )

The big detail we are working on is still the reception. But I know that everything will come together and all the details will fall into place because we serve an awesome God who has already worked everything out! Just pray that we don't lose our focus (and sanity) in the process!

I am so excited to be marrying the most amazing man EVER! He is such a constant encouragement. :) Only 135 days, and I can't wait!!!!!

The Finalized Wedding Date

2007-03-05T08:34:00.000-07:00

It's official: our wedding date is July 22, 2007. I put a deposit down on Shove Chapel on Friday. (I also purchased my wedding dress!!) We're currently working on the reception, and after that it's the wedding cake, invitations, and flowers.

This weekend we moved Doug into "our" new place. We're so excited about it! Doug signed the 12 mo. lease on Thursday. It is a condomunium and was just built in 2006 (never been lived in). It has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and is 1300 sqf. We get one garage parking spot and one carport parking spot. One of my favorite things is the brand new appliances. We love it! (Especially since 90% of the moving has been completed...)

(Anyone have ideas on nice but cheap wedding invitations?)

139 DAYS!!!

My Amazing Photographer

2007-03-02T05:29:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Stacy is going to do my pictures! She is an amazing photographer, andwe are really excited that she is going to come to Colorado for the wedding. I'm really happy that she is going to be a part of our day. Please check out her website: http://stacyrichardsonphotography.com/. Can't wait to see you and your family, Stacy!

142 days and counting!!

My Dress!

2007-03-01T08:11:00.000-07:00

I found my dress yesterday! I am so excited! I wasn't going to try anymore dresses on, and the lady said, "Just pick one more." I hesitated, and then picked one more dress to try on- and I loved it!!! (So did my mom and sis.) I'm so excited. I'm going to pick it up tomorrow! Woo hoo! (Let me know, and I'll send you a picture of it from a website...)

Doug signs the lease on "our" new place today! We're going to move him in this weekend. It is so amazing how God has and continues to work out all the details, both little and big.

This is so exciting!

Shove Chapel

2007-02-27T05:44:00.000-07:00

It looks like we found a location for the wedding ceremony: Shove Chapel. (Note: It is pronounced "Shohve" and not like "I'm going to shove you down the stairs!")

If you click on the title of this post, it will direct you to a website and picture of the chapel, which is located in downtown Colorado Springs on the campus of Colorado College.

Now to find a reception site...

145 days!!!!! (Assuming the date is 7/22/07) Please keep us in your prayers!

Getting Engaged! 2/23/07

2007-02-27T05:35:00.000-07:00

Yes, It's Official!!!

2007-02-26T08:39:00.000-07:00

Doug and I got engaged on Friday (2/23/07)!!! More details, pictures, etc., to come soon! In the meantime, check out our wedding webpage on theknot.com: http://weddings.theknot.com/pwp/view/co_main.aspx?coupleid=5562080679307450&MsdVisit=1

Tentative Date: 7/27/07

Me and My Guy

2006-12-14T11:54:00.000-07:00

Prayer Request

2006-11-30T05:26:00.001-07:00

Please pray for Doug's dad, Don. He left for another tour in Iraq two days ago. Pray that God would give him strength and wisdom, and that God would comfort his mom and sister during this six month period.

In the Name of Morality?!

2006-11-07T05:35:00.000-07:00

With all the recent hype over Ted Haggard's resignation at New Life Church here in Colorado Springs, there have been a slew of news articles and media hype on the subject.

I found the one posted on CNN* particularly interesting, as Mike Jones (the male prostitute who brought allegations against Haggard) gave an explanation on why he decided to come out in the open about the alleged situation. Jones said, "I finally had to come to peace with myself... I had to do the moral thing."

"Moral"? Do you mean to tell me that Jones clothed his allegations in the name of morality? I am astounded that a homosexual prostitute is preaching morality and righteousness to the media!

Genesis 6:5 says, "The LORD saw how great man's wickedness on the earth had become, and that ever inflincation of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time."

We live in a country where "morality" equals whatever is 'right' and 'good' for ME. In the context of this definition, it makes sense that someone like Jones could call making public allegations in the media 'right' (according to his belief system) as Colorado is to vote over gay marriages on Tuesday. He did what was good for him, so that he could benefit.

(Now, I'm not saying that he shouldn't have addressed the situation if in fact the allegations are true, but there are other ways to approach the situation.)

Job 34:4 states, "Let us discern for ourselves what is right; let us learn together what is good."

This current issue should stand as a reminder to us Christians. It is a reminder that we live in a fallen world that has become blinded by sin. We must continue to pray for our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, as we all learn to "walk continually in [God's] truth" (Psalm 26:3). And, as we spur each other on and speak the truth in love, we can never forget that our strength and ability to see what is right and true comes from God alone!

*CNN, "Top Evangelical Quits, Denies Gay Affair."

Daily Sufficient Grace

2006-07-05T06:28:00.000-07:00

"Grace" by Silers Bald

My heart is so proud.
My eyes are so unfocused
.I see the things You've done through me
As great things I have done.
And now You gently break me.
I cry just like a baby.
You hold me as my Father,
And mold me as my Maker.

Chorus:And I ask You How many times will You pick me up.
When I keep on letting You down?
And each time I will fall short of Your glory,
How far will forgiveness abound?
And You answer, "My child, I love you,
And as long as you're seeking My face,
You'll walk in the power of My daily sufficient, grace."

At times I may grow weak.
And feel a bit discouraged.
Knowing that someone somewhere
Can do a better job.
For who am I to serve You?
I know, I don't deserve You.
But that's the part, that burns in my heart,
And keeps me hanging on.

(Chorus)

And You are so patient with me, Lord.
As I walk with You, I'm learningAbout what Your grace really means.
How all of my transgressions
Were paid at Calvary.
So instead of trying to repay You,I'm learning to simply obey You.
By giving up my life to You
For all that You've given to me.

(Chorus)

The Current Time in Belfast

2006-06-08T06:10:00.000-07:00

http://www.worldtimeserver.com/current_time_in_GB.aspx?city=Belfast

A Quiet Two Weeks

2006-06-07T04:36:00.000-07:00

Well, Natalie and Doug fly to N. Ireland today. It's going to make for a very quiet two weeks. I don't know what I'm going to do with myself! I am glad that we're back in the Well Sunday School class though. I'm really praying that I can make some good girlfriends here.

Lael is coming to Colorado June 17th-24th, which is really exciting! I can't wait to see her! I'm so happy that she and Cory are getting married this summer- that means I'll get to see the Loft girls! Woo hoo!

Not much else is really going on here. Work is going smoothly and I'm starting to get the hang of things. (My team did a great job on the assessments they took last month, which is great.) Sometimes I get really frustrated when my employees are talking about the Bible, church, etc., because I am not allowed to contribute to the conversation since it can be taken as religious discrimination. Pretty sad, huh? Their views are so distorted. Please pray that God will work through me and what I do to bring them to Himself. I can't fathom living life in such a hopeless darkness and disillusionment.

I'll leave you with this:
"For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil. Live as servants of God."
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Goodbye, Stacy!

2006-05-31T04:37:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Stacy and her family are moving today. They have been such a huge blessing in my life over the last year. I will miss Stacy, and of course her precious little Grace. I went to her house last night, but no one was home. (I'm sorry I didn't get to say goodbye in person, Stacy!)

On another note, RiLee's brother took the job at CSCS and will move here this summer. This is exciting because it means that I will should get to see her this summer! YAY!

There really isn't anything exciting going on at work right now. I'm starting to get the hang of things, although I really hate having to be "mean" to my employees. (One person even went so far as to tell me his wife had a double lung transplant- which is medically impossible- and that he was soon to be widowed- just to make up for slacking off!)

There really isn't anything else new going on here. Natalie and Doug leave for Ireland on Wednesday, June 7th. I just don't know what I will do with myself for those two weeks! I'm really excited, though, that Natalie will get to have this experience.

Well, I guess that is a brief summation of the goings-on here in Colorado right now. I'm going to work on posting more often... We'll see how long that lasts for... :)

Covenant Trip

2006-04-24T08:07:00.000-07:00

I just got back from an awesome trip to visit friends up at Covenant. It was great! I got to see most of the Loft girls (including Charissa's beautiful baby boy, Audi), Heather R., and my old roomies. It was so fun! Pictures to come...

Love Incomprehensible

2006-03-29T06:38:00.000-07:00

"1If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned,[a] but have not love, I gain nothing.

4Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8Love never ends. "

~ 1 Corinthians 13:1-8 (ESV)

For verses 4-8, substitute the word "love" for your name. What a wake-up call!

I got it!

2006-03-20T09:36:00.000-07:00

Thank you for all your prayers about my possible job promotion. I GOT THE POSITION! I am really excited! I started this new position today. I am officially a member of management, and I don't have to sit and answer the phones all day! YAY! God is so good!

Be Thou My Vision

2006-03-09T05:53:00.000-07:00

"Be Thou my vision,
O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me,
Save that Thou art.

Thou my best thought,
By day or by night;
Waking or sleeping,
Thy presence my light.

High King of heaven,
My victory won,
May I reach heaven's joys,
O bright heav'ns Son!

Heart of my own heart,
Whatever befall,
Still be my vision,
O ruler of all."

Tick Tock and the Cross Victorious

2006-03-07T07:04:00.000-07:00

Taken from A Year with C.S. Lewis, March 7th entry: "Time Does Not Cancel Sin" (The Problem of Pain)

"We have a strange illusion that mere time cancels sin... All times are eternally present to God. Is it not at least possible that along some one line of His multi-dimensional eternity He sees you forever in the nursery pulling the wings off a fly, forever toadying, lying, and lusting as a school boy, forever in that moemnt of cowardice or insolence as a subaltern? It may be that salvation consists not in the cancelling of these eternal moments but in the perfected humanity that bears the same forever, rejoicing in the occasion which it furnished to God's compassion and glad that it should be common knowledge to the universe..."

What an amazing sacrifice, that Christ destroyed sin by taking it on Himself willingly at the cross, because He loved us despite our sin, "rejoicing in the occasion which it furnished to God's compassion and glad that it should be common knowledge to the universe..."

"Job Switching"

2006-03-03T10:28:00.000-07:00

In my lovely (note: sarcasm) gray cubicle at Zurich (the insurance company I work for-www.zurichna.com), I have an I Love Lucy calendar. I thought it was rather ironic when I flipped the page to March, and found that the title of the episode from which the picture comes is "Job Switching."

Things have been changing here at Zurich. I recently applied for a job in a different department, and I got the promotion. I am supposed to start training March 13th. It isn't necessarily the job I wanted, but I felt like I needed to take it to move forward with the company.
Well, much to my suprise, the job that I want became available today. It is a management position (lower-level management): Utilization Review Team Coach. If I get this position, it means that I will not be a contract employee, and I will get another raise.

Please pray that I will be content with whatever God brings my way, whether it is to stay in this current position or to move forward. Pray that I would be completely dependent upon God, and not to search for contentment in the circumstances around me. Thanks!

Psalm 145:16, "You open Your hand; You satisfy the desire of every living thing (ESV)."

Monday Morning Encouragement

2006-02-06T06:58:00.000-07:00

"But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. 'The Lord is my portion,' says my soul, 'therefore I will hope in Him.' The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul that seeks Him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord... For the Lord will not cast off forever, but, though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of His steadfast love (Lamentations 3:21-26, 32 ESV)."

"Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God (Psalm 42:11 ESV)."

"'For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,' says the Lord who has compassion on you (Isaiah 54:10 ESV)."

"God is good all the time. All the time, God is good."

2006-01-31T06:57:00.000-07:00

Why do seemingly bad things happen to good people? How is God good when it seems that His children experience so much suffereing and pain? Romans 8:28-29 says that all things work out for the good of those who love Him. So why is there still pain?
God never told us that we wouldn't experience pain. In fact, we are told that we should expect it. It is an unfortunate and inescapable consequence of sin. But why would a good God allow His children to suffer?
I have really been struggling with these questions over the last few months. My parents are unemployed, our house has been for sale for almost 6 months, my friend had a dangerous miscarriage, and another friend is dealing with serious depression.
I have come to the conclusion that I have been thinking about this the wrong way. I think of "good" as that which benefits me. I brought God down to a human level. I confined Him to my limited and fallible understanding of who I think that He should be.
I recently finished reading Jerry Bridges' Trusting God: Even When Life Hurts. Bridges highlights three characteristics of God: His sovereignity, His wisdom, and His love. In God's sovereignity, He planned each event of our lives. In His wisdom, He chose which events would be necessary to make each of us the person He created us to be. In His love, He chose to make every event and circumstance in our lives perfect, right, and good. Bridges then concludes that because God has planned everything for our good, we should trust Him completely, resting assured that in His awesome love, He is and has taken care of us.
I am very thankful that God's goodness is perfect. I never expect to fully understand it, but I do know that I can trust Him. If His goodness was based upon my own understanding, my world would come crashing down.
It is amazing to see how God works through these difficult trials in life to evidence His love so clearly. Thank you, God, for being good. Your ways are perfect, even though I cannot comprehend them. Thank you for perfectly loving your children and carrying us through sadness, pain, and trials.
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty! Blessed be Your name.

Name that Movie

2006-01-30T08:57:00.000-07:00

Ivy Walker: "When we are married, will you dance with me? I find dancing very agreeable. Why can you not say what is in your head?"
Lucius Hunt: "Why can you not stop saying what is in yours? Why must you lead, when I want to lead? If I want to dance I will ask you to dance. If I want to speak I will open my mouth and speak. Everyone is forever plaguing me to speak further. Why? What good is it to tell you you are in my every thought from the time I wake? What good can come from my saying that I sometimes cannot think clearly or do my work properly? What gain can rise of my telling you the only time I feel fear as others do is when I think of you in harm? That is why I am on this porch, Ivy Walker. I fear for your safety before all others. And yes, I will dance with you on our wedding night."

In order to post comments...

2006-01-30T06:19:00.000-07:00

So I created this blog in order to post comments on other friends' Blogspot blogs... I'm not sure if I'll get into the whole writing/posting blogs thing myself. We'll see... :)