Giveaway!

Check out Chocolate Covered Katie's website for an awesome giveaway!!!

http://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/2011/08/10/the-best-giveaway-ever

Stepping Out

I am learning to step out of my comfort zone. The act of doing things that are not "easy" or "normal" has not been easy in the past for me. However, as another birthday has come and gone, I reflect on what I have achieved and accomplished throughout the past year. The majority of what has been accomplished is due to going against the norm, stepping over boundaries I placed in my life, and intentionally living life to the fullest. I pray that I can live a fulfilled life without self-created obstacles and live life to the fullest!

Stuck in a Rut

Have you ever felt like you were stuck in a rut? I have. I do. Webster's dictionary defines a rut as either "a track worn by habitual passage" or "a usual fixed practice; especially: a monotonous routine". As I look back on the first quarter of this year, I can definitely see how "habitual passage" of life has left me in a rut: the loss of my job, a large cut in pay, the death of Mrs. Ruby (not to mention the daily hardships of life) have left me tired. I used to feel guilty for feeling tired. Over-worked and exhausted were a part of my daily routine because of obligations to other people. As I have grown, I have realized that I am not responsible for everyone else. I have to take care of me. As I struggle with thoughts of sadness, I am reminded "to choose joy". As Easter approaches, I remember 2000 years ago that Jesus died for me. He died for me in order that I may experience life to the fullest, which includes joy. Life isn't all roses and candy, but I must believe that I am supposed to experience joy and embrace happiness in whatever form that it surrounds me. I must be grateful and remember that He will not leave me stranded. Today- I choose joy!

Season of Life and Love

"For every time there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.

A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest.

A time to heal and a time to kill. A time to tear down and a time to build up.

A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance.

A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones. A time to embrace and a time to turn away.

A time to search and a time to quit searching. A time to keep and a time to turn away.

A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak.

A time to love and a time to hate. A time for war and a time for peace."

Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8

On March 1, 2011, one of the most loving people I know passed away. I considered her my grandmother. I lived with her and Mr. Clete (her husband) the summer after my freshman year of college in 2006. Meet Mrs. Ruby:

Although we were not related by blood, Mrs. Ruby came to important days/events for both my brother and I throughout the past 19 years, even when she was not in the best health. This was last May at our graduation, and the next picture was taken after my Honor's Thesis Presentation that she attended.

I miss her greatly already, but I have peace knowing that she is no longer in pain and suffering.

Through everything, I am reminded that there is a season for everything. The words that stand out to me lately in this verse are heal, cry, laugh, grieve, dance, embrace, search, quiet, speak, and love. Lately, my life has consisted of all of those in the verb form.

I will heal from the wounds life has dealt me. I am reminded of the Point of Grace song "Heal the Wound", which states "Heal the wound but leave the scar, a reminder of how merciful you are".

I will cry and grieve, but I won't let my faith be shaken; instead, I will use those processes to strengthen my faith and draw closer to the one who gives me strength.

I will laugh and find joy in daily life, for my joy rests not in the world but in "He who took the nails for me".

Embracing life and those in my life has not always been easy. Finding comfort and seeking love and understanding from those around me is becoming easier; part of that is putting away my pride and becoming humble.

I find myself searching a lot lately: for a church, for friends, for my purpose in life....the list could go on. The more I search, the more I find out more about myself.

I love that quiet comes before speak. As I get older, I realize how much words really do impact the world and others in our lives. I am reminded to think and be quiet before I speak. I do not consider myself profound or wise, but I pray the more I consider my words before I speak, the more they may be heard and used for love.

Love. Love in many forms exists and I am reminded that lately. I pray I can portray love to other even a small percentage of how much He loves me.

Introducing myself...

So- I am linking up with Kelly's Korner for fun. She is doing a "Show Us Your Singles" Day and, well, that includes myself!

So....my name is Christina. I am from North Louisiana, live in the DFW area, and am in my mid-20's.

I an currently attending graduate school, and have a background in the field of Music Education. I enjoy singing, cooking, running, and spending time with friends. I love my family tremendously, and miss them greatly. I am not big into sports, but enjoy working out (I do spin classes and TurboKick) and watching sports on television occasionally (Go New Orleans Saints! :).

Although the above picture is slightly embarrassing (ha!), it really does show my fun side- I am not afraid to have a good time! I am also not embarrassed to share my faith in God. I try to rely on Him fully everyday, for He is my strength, and live my life according to His teachings and word. Thanks for stopping by to my little blog world today! :)

Words of Hope

This past week has not been easy. In fact, it has possibly been the hardest week I have ever experienced. However, through all the pain, tears, anger, and seemingly senselessness, I have found an inner peace and strength that can only come from the one above.

I found words of hope from friends and family, even those who did not know the situation bestowed upon me. Facebook status updates have never seemed more positive or encouraging. I found this one to be specifically relevant and it spoke to me:

"Perhaps our eyes need to be washed by our tears once in a while, so that we may
see Life with a clearer view again."

I could not have said it better myself. I believe in God's plan, although it does involve heartache sometimes. I believe this too shall pass, and His promises revealed in ways I can not fathom. I am holding onto that truth and believing with all that is in me- for hope is all I have.

The Lord is my strength and my salvation...

Tough day.

Just trying to hang onto what I have and in hope for the future. Prayers appreciated.