Becoming less and less

Music

2011-08-31T04:23:00.001-07:00

I love pursuing music.

I am 100% confident that its what God created me to do.

That's a pretty cool feeling. To know God built you for a very specific purpose and to be able to pursue it. There's plenty of much better musicians, singers, and songwriters out there, and maybe I'll never make it big, but God has opened the doors for me to be able to do it full-time and I'm jumping in. I'm overwhelmed with gratefulness.

I set aside hours every day to brush up on old original material I'll be recording, work on harmonies, listen to some of the legends (Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin, etc), try to come up with new songs, and voice training.

The date is set and soon to be released concerning my first recording session. Yeah yeah! :-D
Please pray that The Lord makes it financially possible and that my focus stays on HIM and my music glorifies HIM!

What does it mean to be a Godly woman?

2011-08-28T09:17:00.001-07:00

I used to read the last half of Proverbs 31 every day. You know... the section about the virtuous woman? And I'd try to picture a woman today and what she would dress like, act like, what her daily routine would be, how she treated others, how she treated her husband and how she treated other men and women, how she parented, what time she got up in the morning, how disciplined she was etc... And I suppose I always pictured a woman who had it pretty well together with a balanced schedule.

But yesterday while I sat in a Do Hard Things conference and was being taught to do what's right and avoid what's wrong when it hurts I realized what an emotional mess a virtuous woman must be. She's strong because she's knows she's incredibly weak. She gives up things she craves, wants and desires because she puts others before herself. Yeah, she's strong and she perseveres but its because she's so willing to suffer and sacrifice for a greater purpose. A virtuous woman appears like someone who has it together because she's obtained God's peace by accepting that she never will have it together.

That's why this virtuous woman "smiles at the future" while the rest of are panicking over what may or may not happen. She's okay with not knowing, not controlling, not being able to plan her path. She knows life is fleeting and she lives for today.

I'm so thankful God brought this message to my attention, because I DON'T have it together and - praise God - I don't need to!!!

Missions Trip and Life

2011-07-17T10:15:00.000-07:00

Its so nice to finally have a chance to blog. Last week I spent six days in Nashville Tennessee serving at Cottage Cove, a Christian facility for kids where we would watch them, play with them, and teach them Bible lessons all day. It was an awesome opportunity!

I've also had the opportunity to be at home the past few days and take a big breather. Its been so busy, and, even though I've loved every minute of it, I was ready to take a break. My parents have been gone for a couple of days on business and I've been taking care of the house and spending my evenings watching movies. Tomorrow its back to normal life though. Lots of school! :)

Practicing Yoga

2011-05-31T05:29:00.001-07:00

Yoga, my friends, is a marvelous stress-buster! This Summer, I am doubling up on school (as opposed to taking a break), preparing for a missions trip, leading a Bible study, and joining another worship team. I have a bit on my plate, you see. And I already struggle with anxiety. I've memorized many comforting verses that have helped me through it, but I knew I needed more ways to cope.

So I've started practicing meditation and yoga! Now, I used to be against meditation. I thought it was dangerous because I'd heard some people say that to meditate is to "open your mind" which can be dangerous for a Christian. Not so. I mean, it can be if you do it that way, but when I meditate I make a point of focusing on God. You sit outside with your legs crossed, hands on your knees, open to the sky, eyes closed. Listen to the birds, wind, etc, and focus on God's beautiful creation. It's so relaxing - and healthy.

And then there's yoga. They kind of go hand-in-hand. Most people who are big on Yoga typically meditate too. But doing Yoga for exercise is very relaxing and freeing, and I'm doing it more and more. Both of these things are doing wonders to keep my stress under control. I totally recommend doing them. All right. I need to get started on my homework! (:

Music

2011-05-21T17:29:00.001-07:00

I haven't blogged in a while so...

I thought I would. :-)

Lately I've been taking piano lessons from a very patient teacher, and it's been so helpful.

I'm trying to be more disciplined. In every way. Eating habits, school, music practice, exercise, etc...

Anyways... life is good and God is great. I'm outa here.

Salvation

2011-04-08T06:12:00.000-07:00

Do you ever get refreshed in your relationship with God? Out of nowhere you're just so excited over what He's done for you?

That's where I am, and it's incredible.

The feeling of a Father who welcomes me back with open arms is new again. Thinking of His grace makes me send up an "I love you Daddy" prayer all the time.

Possibly the most amazing thing I've ever known is that God can forgive a sinner like me.

Thank you Jesus. ♥

Sore throat

2011-03-16T14:25:00.000-07:00

I came down with a bit of a cold Monday. With a really bad sore throat. Ugh. This is like my thousandth sore throat. I. Hate. It. Luckily I found a new trick that helps it feel really fast and I can talk a little already (that's a fast recovery for me)

I can't wait to get better and tackle some new music stuff with my dad.
In the meantime I'm laying around watching television. Bleh.

I think I'll catch up on some reading now.

Later...

Livvy

Day 30 - A picture of someone you miss.

2011-03-08T05:39:00.000-08:00

Mrs. Emily McDonald.
Barry took her away - and if he weren't such a great person himself, I'd probably be angry.

She's my "big sister", and the main person who got me through what is still the hardest thing I've ever experienced. I love her dearly, and miss her very much!

Day 29 - A picture that can always make you smile.

2011-02-25T04:30:00.000-08:00

Teen group. Me and Emma made an outfit for Katie Justice out of wrapping paper.
Good times.

Day 28 - A picture of something you're afraid of.

2011-02-24T03:52:00.001-08:00

Doctors... I've had some not-so-fun trips to the ER. :(

Day 27 - A picture of yourself and a family member.

2011-02-24T03:49:00.000-08:00

Me and the brother at Chuck E Cheese for our little brother's birthday party.
We are so cool. ;)

Day 26 - A picture of something that means a lot to you.

2011-02-24T03:42:00.000-08:00

Family vacation. I miss it.

I'm not sure where we were in this photo... It was our trip out west. Maybe Oregon? I think this is 1880 town. Hmm. :)

Day 25 - A picture of your day.

2011-02-24T03:40:00.001-08:00

I know I'm so behind on this stupid thing.
But here was my day yesterday: school, school, and more school.

fun stuff. :)

Day 24 - A picture of something you wish you could change.

2011-02-20T19:56:00.000-08:00

the fact that I'm NOT recording - that's something I wish I could change! I miss singing!!!

Day 23 - A picture of your favorite book.

2011-02-19T08:17:00.000-08:00

Probably some of the best fiction I've ever read.
Then again, anything from this guy is outstanding!

Day 22 - A picture of something you wish you were better at.

2011-02-18T04:11:00.000-08:00

Sports! I'm not coordinated..... at all. I'm the girl that does the artsy stuff. It would be nice to be good at more than one thing, haha.

Day 21 - A picture of something you wish you could forget.

2011-02-17T04:40:00.000-08:00

Heartbreak, and the scars it left.

Day 20 - A picture of somewhere you'd love to travel.

2011-02-16T19:26:00.001-08:00

New Zealand. I think it would be just amazing.

Day 19 - A picture of you when you were little.

2011-02-15T12:57:00.000-08:00

Pretty cute, huh? :)

Day 18 - A picture of your biggest insecurity.

2011-02-14T03:26:00.000-08:00

Just looks in general are what REALLY bother me. The contest to look better than other beautiful women. It's horrible.

Day 17 - A picture of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently.

2011-02-13T10:56:00.000-08:00

I wasn't sure what picture to use, but this seemed like a good'n.

What's had a a huge impact on my life lately is the love of Jesus. Seriously. I'm going through an amazing journey with Jesus, and feel closer to Him than ever before.

Day 16 - A picture of someone who inspires you.

2011-02-12T07:10:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness. So many wonderful things about this woman! I think the way in which she inspires me most is with her perseverance and work ethic - along with her unconditional trust in, and love for God. I love you Nettie!

Day 15 - A picture of something you want to do before you die.

2011-02-11T03:36:00.000-08:00

To help at a Crisis Pregnancy Center. I've been more and more passionate about wanting to save lives, and help the mothers looking for direction. It's something I've wanted to be involved in for a long time.

Day 14 - A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without.

2011-02-10T03:27:00.000-08:00

My mom and my Aunt Dory.
Two very amazing women that I love and aspire to be like.

Day 13 - A picture of your favorite band or artist.

2011-02-09T03:41:00.000-08:00

For about nine years now.
She's been my favorite artist and the one who inspired me to sing in the first place.
Rebecca St.James.

Day 12 - A picture of something you love.

2011-02-08T18:59:00.000-08:00

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Day 11 - A picture of something you hate.

2011-02-07T01:25:00.000-08:00

In so many ways...

Day 10 - A picture of the person you do the most messed up things with.

2011-02-06T11:11:00.000-08:00

Yeah, me and Emma are pretty crazy together.

I just love her.

Day 09 - A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most.

2011-02-05T08:55:00.000-08:00

Katie Justice. For sure.
God has used her to get me through SO much, and to keep me from making some seriously bad decisions. She's taken so much weight off my shoulders with her Godly advice and wisdom. I just love her to death.

Day 08 - A picture that makes you laugh.

2011-02-04T02:44:00.001-08:00

Haha. Me, Olivia Lindstrom, and Greg Justice.

This was the morning after we'd spent the first night on the fall retreat with the youth group, and me and Olivia were both wiped out and so not ready to start the day. So we went downstairs and crashed on the couch in the lounge area, and Autumn decided to take a picture with Greg "creepin'". Too awesome.

Day 07 - A picture of your most treasured item.

2011-02-03T05:12:00.001-08:00

My guitar(s)

(:

Day 06 - A picture of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day.

2011-02-02T06:06:00.000-08:00

This is Nichole Nordeman, an amazing Christian singer.

Honestly, I don't listen to her stuff all that often, but the overall idea of what her life is like is what I dream of mine being like someday. She's a wife and a mother, and also a songwriter and singer. She finds time to spend with her family, and occasionally travels to hold concerts as well.

Day 05 - A picture of your favorite memory.

2011-02-01T07:27:00.000-08:00

The missions trip to Arizona last Summer! It was amazing, and changed my life in a lot of ways.

This is my BFF Josh that I met there - he's awesome!!

Day 04 - A picture of your night.

2011-02-01T07:17:00.001-08:00

I wasn't able to get online last night, but here's what I did!

We heard there was an ice storm coming, and our power might go out, soooo, I made sure we had plenty of snacks just in case. ;)

-brownies

-blueberry muffins

-cinnamon muffins

Day 03 - A picture of the cast from your favorite show.

2011-01-30T10:20:00.000-08:00

8 Simple Rules

Gilmore Girls

So I couldn't pick one. I watch both of these shows allll the time. Even though they only play reruns now. I think they're great!

Day 02 - A picture of you and the person you have been close with for the longest.

2011-01-29T07:05:00.000-08:00

Yup! Miss Katie Prevost, out of all my closest friends, has been there the longest.
It's a rare friend that stays in your life for very long at all, but me and Katie have been good friends for around six years now.
We've laughed, cried, fought, had really awkward moments that we still laugh about together, but all in all we've had a GREAT friendship.
She's always there to be whatever I need for comfort. To be happy, sad, or angry for me. Katie, you're great! :)

Day 1 - a picture of yourself with fifteen facts

2011-01-28T04:41:00.000-08:00

(Thirty day picture thingy, inspired by my amazingggg friend Emily who's doing the same thing!)

1) I love coffee. I'm drinking some right now.

2) I enjoy the paraphrase "the message" and read from it often.

3) I love to cook and bake. Sometimes I get burnt out from it, other times I need to do it for stress relief. Odd. It either adds stress or takes it away.

4) I have very specific dreams that I have to hand over to God daily, because I've clung to them so long and feel He's calling me to let go.

5) I love hair and makeup products. If I could take two hours to get ready every day, I definitely would. I'm such a girl.

6) Me and my best friends laugh so hard we cry over things that aren't even truly funny.

7) I have an OCD problem with feeling like my email and facebook get "cluttered" and I have to delete something. So far I've deleted 20 pages of messages, ten "friends" that I never talk to, around 70 photos, and over 500 "likes".

8) I'm a morning person. I've tried to be a night owl - and I can't.

9) If I'm so angry or upset that I can't calm down, I deep clean the house. It helps every time.

10) I play guitar for my youth group worship team

11) I love speaking. Like, giving my testimony. Even though it makes me REALLY nervous and I usually end up crying, it's one of my favorite things to do.

12) I'm incapable of leaving a project unfinished. I've started books I couldn't stand, but I HAD to finish that book, even if it took me four months. It's an issue, really.

13) I'm a complainer, and thankfulness is a constant goal for me.

14) I overthink everything.

15) I love Jesus with all of my heart

Coffee :)

2011-01-08T15:26:00.000-08:00

I've been having fun with my espresso machine a lot here lately.

Today I made a great big Vanilla Latte (made with soy, being lactose intolerant)

It made me happy :) :) :)

Drawing Closer

2010-12-27T06:23:00.001-08:00

God is teaching me so much lately.
I very recently had my heart broken, and I'm still in pain over it, but I know God is using it to teach me forgiveness, to stay vulnerable and willing to love, and to lean on Him. I've gradually slipped away from Him and now I'm running back and embracing ANOTHER second chance.

He's also been blessing me in some huge ways. I'm meeting up with one of my best friends and accountability partner this week. I'm going out to the movies with my family to see the new Narnia movie. I'm having music practice for my next special at church. And I'm spending a day in a recording studio! SO thankful!

This is my last week off school for a very long time, unfortunately. But it should be a good'n. So I'll be spending my spare time planning out my (final:) school year.

Better get my day started...

Prayer Request

2010-11-12T16:47:00.000-08:00

I'm beginning to realize that every time I blog it's when I'm upset. So I apologize but once again this post is gonna be a downer...

I am exhausted. My heart is tired. My body is tired. My mind is tired. I'm all around drained, and I'm crying out to God day and night for answers and getting nothing. I have to compose myself in public to keep from bursting into tears. There isn't one thing that is bothering me more than anything else. There are three huge issues weighing on my heart. To say life is hard right now would be an understatement. I'm not going to name them; they're too personal, but I would ask for your prayers.

All I want is to please God in my decisions.

I went to rest on the couch for a few minutes and my mom glanced at me, then stopped and looked at me again and said, "Olivia, you look so tired." I guess the makeup isn't doing such a great job hiding my tired eyes here lately.
Yeah, I'm wallowing in self-pity right now, if you couldn't tell. But my reasons are legit, I promise. I need help. Serious advice. And comfort. I feel very alone.

Thank you to everyone who reads this and remembers to pray for me.

I don't even know. I just started writing.

2010-11-07T13:04:00.001-08:00

I thought I was alone
But turned and saw Him there
He said "Stop pretending
as if I'm not everywhere."

I said "What is it now?
What am I doing wrong?"
He said "Be still, let go.
Stop holding on."

Then He took my hand
And held it tight
Said "I'll handle tomorrow
Rest here for tonight."

So I settled in His arms
And gave Him my trust
I said "What will I do
When the morning comes?"

He said "Hush now, you'll see
I'll guide you every step
Child, I was always there
Shut out by your selfishness."

I said "God what about the storms?"
He said "I'll be there through the night"
I said "When I'm broken, when I'm torn?"
He said "I'll never leave your side"

I said "What about my sin
And all the things I've done?"
He said "Daughter you're forgiven
I look at you and I see my son."

MEN

2010-11-04T10:53:00.001-07:00

I'm gonna pull a Social Network and rant about my anger on the internet. Oh well. I prefer typing my feelings out rather than writing it by hand.

Guys are babies. They will say anything to make you believe that they have your best interest in mind, and they're good at it. They know the right things to say, when they're just really immature and insensitive and jealous. They're arrogant, and really don't have a CLUE when the women in their life are hurting, and the only way to get their attention is to make it painfully obvious. They'll tell you you're beautiful, gorgeous, amazing..... so sweet. :) who's the other lucky lady you're also texting that to, jerk?

Now, to be fair: Women send guys on an emotional rollercoaster by changing moods every two minutes and getting angry that the poor dude can't keep up. We're controlling, hormonal, and we twist everything they say into an insult (sorry, but it's fun :).

Also: I have plenty of guys in my life that are very dear to me, that set amazing Christ-like examples, that are exceptions to the faults I just blurted out, and that I love.

Hopefully that evens it out.

Toodles!

2010-10-30T20:51:00.000-07:00

I can't hardly handle these emotions.

They're irrational troubles - things that shouldn't bother me. But thinking about them... ugh. I just wanna burst into tears.

God God God give me a way out!

Stupid Inhaler!!!!

2010-10-26T14:38:00.000-07:00

So I've been having asthma attacks nearly every evening for the past week, and I recently got a new inhaler, and have been taking it three times a day (well, twice each time. Not supposed to take it anymore than that.)
And over the past three days I've noticed that I'm constantly depressed and on the edge of tears.... wondering if Albuterol had any side affects so I looked it up... The most common side affects?...

allergic reactions, aggression, agitation, anxiety, appetite loss, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, light-headedness, muscle cramps, nausea, nervousness, nightmares, restlessness, ringing in the ears, insomnia, urinary problems, vomiting, back pain, fever, and fatigue.

I've been getting several of these, depression the worst. Ugh! Can't wait to be able to stop taking this stupid thing...

Okay, done venting.

True Security

2010-10-22T05:17:00.000-07:00

I am definitely putting myself way behind on my day by taking the time to type this, but I need to... I'd much rather type out my feelings, than write them by hand at the moment... sometimes that doesn't work so well, because, let's face it, people only want to know so much about you. O.o Anyway...

I just started (as in like, half an hour ago) reading a book by Beth Moore called "So Long Insecurity". Insecurity is something I struggle with.. I guess everybody does if we're honest, but, yeah... anyway... See, I've been spoiled growing up. I've always known I was loved, considered lovely, people were proud of me... not everyone, but my family and close friends at least - they smothered me with this adoration. And I've allowed myself to totally lean on it.

Obviously it's a huge self-esteem booster for any girl to be told she's beautiful... But Beth Moore raised a critically important question... What IF we're never told that again? What security is left for us?

So what has been going through my mind these past few minutes, that I'm going to try and let change my entire perspective on my self-image is this: If no one ever says "I love you", "You are so beautiful" "I'm proud of you" "I miss you"... if I never hear anything like this again, never feel adored, or loved... is God sufficient? Is His love, the fact that I was made in His image, that He adores me and created me to look exactly like the beautiful, one-of-a-kind, daughter-of-The-King that I am... is that enough? Could I go my entire life without a shred of human praise, and be fully secure and confident when I look at myself through God's eyes?
I don't think so.
Not at this point.
But it's not an unrealistic goal.
In fact, it's the only thing that will satisfy my natural human desire to be accepted.
So that's what I'm going to start working toward.
Finding my dignity at the cross.

Pain

2010-09-25T00:08:00.000-07:00

My heart hurts so badly...

Time is supposed to heal...

But time passes so slowly when you have a broken heart. I want to redo what I've done, but what I did was the right thing. I know it. God confirmed it in my heart and mind. But oh, how it hurts..

I have to keep reminding myself to rest in His arms... that's the only thing keeping me from taking it all back. And I would so regret doing that, knowing it's not God's will for my life.

I have to stay strong, I have to obey, but how do I ignore the pain? It's affecting me physically. Changing my sleeping and eating pattern, taking away my ability to focus on anything for any amount of time, and literally giving me headaches...

Creator, only you take brokenness, and create it into beauty once again....

I know God will make something incredible out of this. And that doesn't comfort me at all. The pain is there just the same. But it doesn't matter. All that matters is that He be glorified through the choices I make. That's all that matters. That's all I live for. Him. God. Jesus. Lord. Daddy. Father. Abba. My Savior.

Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from me. Yet not my will, but Yours be done.

Sick

2010-08-31T02:15:00.000-07:00

So last Wednesday I came down with a cold.... yuck! :( I was determined that I could push through it without rest and still get better... me. With my pathetic immune system, hahahahha. Yeah, so I've basically been in denial that I'm even sick. Going out with my friends, doing school and cleaning around the house. Taking drugs to cover it up and still eating garbage. I've been paying too. Sunday is the worst I've felt in a long time so yesterday I really let myself rest. I didn't do anything else but rest and I feel MUCH better. I'm gonna do the same today.... The only reason I'm blogging at five in the morning is because I've been up since three, unable to sleep. Bleh!

As for other things in life.... I'm going to get my license sometime this September. :)) I'm pretty nervous about it.
There's this incredible song from Switchfoot that just recently has been playing on the radio called "Your love is a song". Ohhh, it's so beautiful and so worshipful.
I'm starting to get a lot better as a guitarist. Learning lots of new stuff, I'm so excited! I've been "stuck" as a musician for quite a while, not knowing how to improve any further without lessons, even though I know I have a ton left to learn, and I'm finally coming out of that and finding new avenues of musical growth... glorious. :) Speaking of music, I want to request prayer, as usual, for my music career which is still on hold. I reallyyyyyy want to see something happen. BUT! This isn't about me, it's for God's glory... so I'll wait for His timing, however long that is.
Well... I suppose I should try to sleep, eh? We'll see how that goes, haha!

-Livvy

Holding it all in

2010-07-06T18:16:00.000-07:00

Agh. What's wrong with me? I have communication problems. I hate hurting people's feelings. I hate being controlling. I hate being annoying. So much so that sometimes I don't SPEAK UP when I need to. And then I get upset. And no one knows it but me. And it's my fault. I really need to learn to communicate to people how I feel about things, because I'm making myself miserable. Please pray for me on this topic! Thanks! :)

Music

2010-06-12T23:23:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness. What would I do without my music? What an incredible gift from God music is. It can make you cry, in the best way. Almost like it makes you feel closer to Heaven. You know - that type of music. Often just a single instrument. A piano. A violin. It absolutely takes my breath away.

Music is my only sanity sometimes. When I'm upset, angry, sad, I shut myself in my room, pick up my guitar or turn on my keyboard and just play whatever best expresses the emotions I need to get out. It calms me.

When I think about the fact that music is a gift to us from God... it just gives me the most worshipful state of mind whenever I'm listening to something that really touches me. I'm not talking about lyrics, although words can be extremely powerful, but the emotion that comes purely from music and music alone. It can excite you, relax you, melt you, make you absolutely heartbroken... simply from sound. How powerful is that? What kind of awesome God must we have for something like that to even be possible? To be so completely moved ... by a sound.

Wow.

Nine years ago God used music to change my life. It's through music that He's chosen to use me. Which I consider quite a privilege. Even though I'm still yet to make it big in the music industry, I've been onstage enough to know how easy it is to take it for granted. Every time I perform is an absolute honor to serve The King. God, help me to never forget that.

Thankyou Jesus for music!!

Summer = ewww

2010-06-11T10:45:00.000-07:00

So, I love Spring. It has this reawakening-type feeling and the temperature is always perfect. But then comes Summer. And it's hot. And you cannot escape that heat. Even with AC it's, just....hot. So I thought I'd try to go along with it and plant a flower garden. We have a HUGE flower bed. So far I have been weeding for a total of five hours. My back hurts. I am dripping sweat - no, seriously. I look like I just took a dip. And it's 100% sweat. Yucky!!!
BUT, I'm sure that once my lovely flowers are planted.... I'll still hate Summer. Hahahahahaha.
Winter is so wonderful. Why does everyone hate it? I love looking out the window and seeing the world completely white while I'm snuggled under a blanket with a cup of hot chocolate next to a crackling fire. Is it just me, or is that bliss? Eh? EH??? Summer's horrible. The End.

Life

2010-05-20T03:37:00.000-07:00

Life is so beautiful. Not because of things that are happening necessarily - if I were in control, I would probably have quite a few more things happening (and not happening for that matter!) for myself, but thank goodness I don't have that power - God is much more trustworthy with my life, and He's teaching me to love every moment that I put it in His hands and sigh a deep sigh of relief.

I get up pretty early every day so I have time for exercise, school, helping with my sibling's school, and helping my mom cook. My day starts at 6:00 am and ends around 8:00 in the evening, when I can talk to Aaron, my best friend, listener, Godly-advice-giver, comforter, and my boyfriend. (: Then I go to bed around 9:30-10:00 and read till about 10:30 when I have no trouble immediately drifting off.

Thankyou God, for every moment that You are in control, and not me. I love you so much!

Psalm 103:1

Praise the LORD, O my soul,
And all my inmost being, praise His Holy Name.

When life gets tough...

2010-04-30T03:16:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here with my coffee. It's six in the morning. I'm tired. I'm burnt-out. I'm done. All I've wanted these past couple days is a hug and some reassurance. But I've been watching some friends push me out of their lives here lately and it's a feeling I'm all too familiar with, but it always hurts the same.

So, I'm in a difficult spot here, as you can see.

Now what?

Well, I'm depressed....

Then what?

Well, then I need some time just me and God to recover.

Then what?

Then, eventually... God would take my hand and help me, and I would get back up and go back to the life He's blessed me with.

My God loves me with an extravagant love, and He will give me strength.

My God loves me with an extravagant love, and He does NOT make mistakes.

That's what.

Just Passing Through (:

2010-04-09T10:50:00.001-07:00

Lately God's really been teaching me how to focus on His Kingdom. We say we're just "passing through" but I think that in reality we, even as Christians, get way to comfortable here. Our life is like a vapor (James 4:14). We're here to conform to His image and glorify His name using whatever dreams He's put in our hearts as a means of witnessing. It's so difficult to live with that mindset sometimes. This life is short. We're here, then we're gone, but we get to spend eternity with Him. :) The one who loves me more than I could ever imagine. I get to be with Him forever. What could be more wonderful than that?
I see now why it's sooo important to ask God to refresh my mind and heart every day. I'm so sinful, and so easily go back to only thinking of myself. But if I look at the big picture, I see that my time here is very short, and that gives me something wonderful to look forward to someday.
Psalm 23:6
Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life
And I will dwell in the house of The Lord forever.

2010-04-08T00:57:00.000-07:00

The moments in a quiet room
Where all you can hear is the scratching of your pen against the paper
And your own soft murmurs
Of what you're about to write
In a seemingly ordinary room
That seems somehow beautiful in the dim candlelight

Strumming the rough guitar strings
To one of the first songs you ever wrote
While looking out at the sunset
And listening to laughter through the wall

Remembering the good things
While laying the harder things at his feet
And dreaming of what He might have planned

Drinking something hot in front of the fire
While it snows outside
And your dog sleeps at your feet

When a friend looks at you and says
"I love you"
For no other reason than just that

Will I ever truly know what it's like to count my blessings?

Lord, how could I ask for more? ♥

2010-03-13T19:02:00.000-08:00

Tell her she's beautiful
Thank God for her every day
Don't push anything
Pray for her constantly
Tuck her hair behind her ear
Protect her purity
Hold her hand
Tell her you love her
...But only if you mean it

A Second Chance

2010-02-06T14:45:00.000-08:00

I impatiently tapped the desk with my pencil, chin in hand, elbow resting against the desk, as another tear slid off my nose and onto the paper. I was DEEP into the journal now. How many times had I scratched out a sentence and tried to start over? But where I'd taken my story was not working... I kept getting hurt and kept hurting others. And the more I tried to fix it, the more sentences I scratched out till the whole thing was just a mess.

"I'm still waiting," I heard Him whisper.

I sighed, "Okay... I'm sorry... I'm SO sorry. Please, is there any way to fix what I've done?"

No response.

"Lord?" I whispered, desperate.

No reply.

I reached to wipe my tears and found that my face was already dry. I looked down at my journal, expecting to find my screwed-up story. Instead, I found it open on the first page. It was blank, and the pen was gone. I smiled.

He had taken it.

2010-01-25T03:36:00.000-08:00

It's 6:36 am and I'm sitting here with a cup of coffee. I sat in bed for about fifteen minutes wondering if I was really going to get up so early. I finally did and when I looked in the mirror I found that I looked like a ghost... with a few zits and puffy eyes. Haha! I really did have a draining day yesterday - but my goodness, it was amazing! I got to help my teen group in an outreach thing at a nursing home and met some very sweet older women. I also went to my teen group as normal the same evening. :)
I'm gonna spend some time with Jesus here in a few minutes. He's so amazing. Really been emphasizing LOVE in my life lately. One night I went to bed and just lye there and smiled and felt like He was saying "I've ALWAYS loved you this much - you're just now realizing it."
I love you Jesus!

-Olivia

Contentment

2009-12-19T03:29:00.000-08:00

I'm waiting for my music ministry to move ahead.
I'm waiting to meet my future husband.
I'm waiting for a car.
I'm waiting for a spark of songwriting creativity.
I'm waiting for a job.
I'm waiting for a more clear direction in life in general.

But, reading my own words, I also see that I have all the time in the world to spend with Jesus. Everything seems so pointless, endless, repetitive... but I have so many opportunities throughout the day to simply "be" with Jesus. If nothing else, I am learning to be content. To put it in God's hands instead of trying to take control because I don't approve of where I am. I don't know why he's making me wait for so many things. I don't know if it even has anything to do with me. I just know that this is my time with Him...

Now.
Without a career draining me emotionally and physically.

Now.
As a single person who can FULLY focus on God.

Now.
Right where God wants me to be.

I recently wrote a short song. Some of the lyrics goes like this:

Thank you Jesus
For not giving me my way
Thank you Jesus
That all I have is today
Thank you Jesus
That life isn't fair
Thank you Jesus
For not granting this prayer.

As Francis Shaeffer so wisely said "Nothing would terrify me more than to know that I could ask for anything today and get it. Because I don't know enough."
I trust in God, being all-knowing and loving me so deeply, as opposed to myself, because i am finite, and there's simply no way I could know what's best for myself.
Here am I Lord.
Send me.

Your faithful daughter,
Olivia

Cooking

2009-11-21T12:04:00.000-08:00

Okay, so cooking is something that I did NOT want to try for the longest time. Why? Well, because I had made little dishes before and enjoyed it, but I feared becoming domesticated... I wanted to love a busy life, and had my mind set to be a busy person, constantly out of the house... which I still love doing, but, hey, don't be afraid to try something out.
Anyway, my mom got busy and started needing help so I started doing almost all of the cooking. At first, I was so overwhelmed and just panicky all the time about it... but, seriously people. If you will go slow, clean as you cook, and start with simple recipes (Rachael Ray :) you will LOVE it! It's so relaxing, it takes zero skill... oh my. I just love it. Love, love, LOVE IT!
So there is my latest rant... I am done now. Now go cook something! Don't be afraid to love it like I was... I was missing out. :)

Remember, remember, the fifth of November...

2009-11-05T18:32:00.000-08:00

So, it's late and honestly I should be doing homework, but you know what? I worked my butt off today and I'm DONE. Yes, I may regret it tomorrow, but I need a freaking break so I'm taking it. Thinking about watching V for Vendetta tonight. ;) The language is pretty strong in it and I recommend TVG (TV Guardian - inexpensive and worth it!) to watch it, but it has such a great message.

I'm going to go get a cup of tea and enjoy my evening. Good night Blog.

-Olivia

Brain Break

2009-10-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

I just got done doing a week's worth of algebra and reading an hour of "City of God" from St. Augustine and my brain is kind of done... but I have another hour of reading to do. :( So I'm taking a brain break and writing a blog! Yay!

What to say? Ummm I'm wearing a brown turtleneck, I'm eating chicken for lunch, I'm hungry allll the time, I waste way too much time on facebook and I'm catching up with God a lot lately cause I just haven't been spending enough time with Him. Anyway.. That's it!!

-Olivia

2009-10-15T15:16:00.000-07:00

You know, in a way I think it's easier to answer the hard, deep questions. Questions that make you really have to think to come up with an answer. Because when someone looks at you and says, "How do you get saved?", "Is there such a thing as a second chance?" or "Who is Jesus?" your mind is so freaking overwhelmed with the millions of different ways you could answer such a question, that you don't know where to start....

I was recently asked such a question and I was so scared that I might say something wrong, put it the wrong way, so I said a quick prayer asking for guidance and just started talking... at first it all felt like a confusing mixture of a thousand different points but slowly I came around to saying the most important things, and it started flowing, and I concluded my thought... and was successful in helping this person to understand. Anyway!

What else is new? Well, I recently started the maker's diet and have lost eight pounds. :) Just twelve more to go!

Ooh! I heard an interesting question the other day "what happens if you're going at the speed of light and you turn your headlights on?"

And that's about it! Okay - bye!

-Olivia

Food and music

2009-08-28T08:53:00.000-07:00

Well, last night me and my mom saw Julie & Julia together. It was wonderful. Funny, romantic, and inspiring. Afterward, we went to the cheesecake factory and caught up with each other about life over bread, a bowl of pasta, and red velvet cheesecake. It's funny how you can be in the same house with someone like your mom all the time and have no idea what's going on in the each other's life.
I don't have long, I need to get started on lunch (hamburgers and potato wedges - but for supper, BLT's!:), but as far as music goes:

Okay, I know I say this a lot, but I think I'm finally about to record a full length album. No, really. Maybe it will fall through like so many other things in the past, but God's timing is always right, and I'm not about to give up. Other than that, I will be singing a special (one of my originals!) at my church soon. :) Oh, and I'm picking up on harmonica! Hehe! It's very easy, and very fun.

Okay, time to make lunch. And to the few people in the world who actually read this blog, please leave a comment!

-Olivia

Cooking

2009-08-17T11:13:00.000-07:00

I've been so obsessed with cooking lately - something I never thought I would care for. Lately I've made greek salad, basil pasta with mussels, honey mustard cutlets, green chili enchiladas, deep-fried ravioli, and buffalo chicken strips. Most of my recipes are from Rachael Ray and Jamie Oliver. It's so much fun!!! I could spend hundreds of $$ just in kitchen supplies too. So happy to have found yet another hobby.

More later

-Olivia

1 Corinthians 10: 31

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.

~~ LOVED ~~

2009-07-08T03:30:00.000-07:00

Despite my imperfection, I can cast my anxieties on Him, because He cares for me. (1 Peter 5:7)

Despite my shortcomings, He has loved me with an everlasting love, He has drawn me with loving-kindness. (Jeremiah 31:3)

Despite my all my flaws - all my sin compared to HIS unconditional love - Mostly what God does is love me
(Ephesians 5:2 The Message)

♥

1,000 miles from home

2009-05-28T16:32:00.001-07:00

I'm sitting in the campground office not ten minutes from the badlands. In fact, there's an incredible view of them right outside our camping spot. We hiked for four hours through it today and it was SOOO hot - My arms and face are totally burnt! Ha ha! Anyway - we're in South Dakota, obviously, and it took us three long days of driving to get here. It's rather lovely to be able to relax for an afternoon and not have to spend it in the car. I've got like seven books shoved in the car for the road - so excited to catch up on my reading! :)
Tomorrow we will be seeing Mt. Rushmore and traveling to our next campground. About a ninety minute drive, as opposed to six hours. What a relief.
Yesterday I walked up to a picnic table right in front of the view of The Badlands in our campsite and just prayed and tried to "be" before I took out my pen and paper and wrote a new song. :) Amazing words are written when you are truly focused on God!!!
There are a thousand little detail I could write, but... yeah, they're not that interesting. ;) he!he!

I'm sure I will be writing again soon!!!!

Livvy~*~

Psalm 34:1

I will bless the Lord at all times,
His praise shall continuously be in my mouth.

God is a God of NEWNESS! :)

2009-05-22T07:52:00.000-07:00

Have you ever reached that point in your life (probably more than once) where you felt like you were stagnating? I've been struggling to come out of that point for over a year now. God is opening so many doors here lately, and it's scary. There's the possibility of moving, getting a band, recordings are looking more affordable... All I can do is pray that God bring the next chapter of my life into play because I'm so ready for it.

Every time I give something to Him and follow Him He never lets me down. We think that if we don't give ourselves some flexibility outside the Christian walk to bend the rules then we'll never have any fun, but I think that if we would just listen and follow hard after Him we could see what an amazing adventure this walk with Christ really is!! It's hard to come to the realization that God didn't just make the ten commandments because He could. Each one if for our protection and happiness. We have to realize that if something is not 100% pleasing to Him it cannot possibly lead to happiness (C.S.Lewis "The Problem of Pain).

Anyway! On a lighter note - me and my family are packing our bags for a LONG vacation out west (a whole month!) and will be leaving this coming Monday! Fun stuff - and frankly, everyone here could use a vacation, haha!!!

Later peeps

Livvy-*-^*<*>~*~

Isaiah 43:19

Behold, I will do something new,
Now it will spring forth,
Will you not be aware of it?
I will even make a roadway in the wilderness
Rivers in the desert.

Mary and Martha

2009-04-24T02:56:00.000-07:00

Possibly my favorite story in the bible is in Luke, when Jesus and his disciples go into the home of Mary and Martha to rest, and while Martha is in the kitchen, stressing out and trying to prepare dinner, Mary is sitting at Jesus' feet, listening intently to his every word.

I can be so bad about using my busy schedule to fill up my time and keep my mind occupied so I don't have to think about all the stuff going on in life. Lately, God's really been teaching me the art of simply being - being with Him. That art of not accomplishing anything by doing the best thing you can, which is spending time with him. Taking walks with Him outside alone, reading his word, sitting and staring out a window while silently pouring your heart out to Him. Just to be able to look at all the crap going on in life and say "I know you're in control - it is well with my soul."

I have a lot on my mind right now, and my heart is very heavy today, and I'm scared, so I'm going to take my own advice and go spend some quality time with my first love! :)

Olivia~

Luke 10:38-42

³⁸Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village; and a woman named ^AL)">(AL)Martha welcomed Him into her home.

³⁹She had a sister called ^AM)">(AM)Mary, who was ^AN)">(AN)seated at the Lord's feet, listening to His word.

⁴⁰But ^AO)">(AO)Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, "Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me."

⁴¹But the Lord answered and said to her, "^AP)">(AP)Martha, Martha, you are ^AQ)">(AQ)worried and bothered about so many things;

⁴²^AR)">(AR)but only one thing is necessary, for ^AS)">(AS)Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her."

giving it to GOD

2009-04-03T08:43:00.000-07:00

I'm reading a fascinating book from C.S.Lewis right now called "The Problem of Pain".

In one chapter, he brought up the common question: "Are we born sinful in such a way that we are destined to be terrible creatures and it's not our fault, or IS it our fault that we sin constantly?" He continued to describe us as spoiled brats. It's really interesting if you think about it that way. On one hand, no, it is not your fault that you were given the freedom to do whatever you want and were therefore raised in a spoiled environment, but it is your fault that you chose to do wrong, because no matter how you are raised God has still wired you to know right from wrong, being made in HIS image. He gave us free will and we abused it. And because we've been raised in this "spoiled" environment, no matter how much we think that we have killed that rebellious spirit in us that doesn't seek God, it is still alive and still needs to continue "dying".

Other than that - I just got back from a week long trip to North Carolina with my dad! We climbed four mountains in the Black Mountain Range and went canoing too. I gained six pounds from all the junk I ate, but I'm getting back on a good healthy diet today. :)

Since this week is spring break, my teen group has been doing something together every day. Today we're supposed to do Ultimate Frisby all day but it's wet, so I don't know how they're gonna adjust their plans yet... Everybody there is so awesome! I just love hanging out with all of 'em...

Ba! It's late.. I need to do my devotions and start on lunch.

later

Livvy~

Random thoughts

2009-03-13T06:52:00.001-07:00

Hey ya'll!

I haven't blogged in a while... Honestly, that's because there isn't a whole lot to catch up on. I haven't been doing anything. Our mountain climb got postponed a couple weeks since I got sick, and I haven't gotten out of the house just to hang with a friend since December. :/ Luckily, that's about to change though!

So my friend Alee is in a school play tomorrow and I'm hoping to go to that and Monday I get to see my friend Emily. :) Yay!

I have so many people that love me... I am very blessed. I was doing devotions the other day and asking God if He would bring "the one" into my life sometime soon, and over the past couple weeks, He's really spoken to my heart and just said, "For this season of life Olivia, I need you to fall in love with ME." So I turned to the gospels and have been reading through them and focusing on getting to know who Jesus is. It's the most intimate thing EVER to read about Him and focus on His love and then close your bible and pray knowing that your talking to that very person. It's like the very key to falling in love with Him is focusing on how much He loves you. Of course it's because that our desire as people (okay - as a girl:) is to be loved compassionately and deeply. How can you not love someone that loves you more than you will ever understand?
Showing love has been a huge challenge for me for a long time and something God's been working on in me lately. In fact, I was having such a hard time forgiving someone who hurt me time and time again that I sat down in tears and just begged God to give me the strength and show me how to love the unlovable.... and He said one word: "Agape."... It's one of the Greek words for love. It's the type of love that you choose to give. It has nothing to do with what the person has done, it is purely a choice to love no matter what. Agape was demonstrated on a cross. The perfect picture of selflessness. That night was a very painful, very important breaking point for me. So many times we ask God to work on our hearts, and we're very honest and sincere, we simply don't understand the cost. It's like there's this wall of protection around you the first time that you really feel on fire for God. But the longer you follow God, the more that wall is torn down, and you see the cost of being the only one standing for truth - and yet the beauty of it too.
Okay... that's enough rambling for now. I've got to go! haha!

~Olivia

Romans 12:2
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Getting Fit 4 Du Mountains!!

2009-03-02T08:58:00.000-08:00

Hey!

Wow.. it's been forever since I posted... it's really busy around here!

So, I am now actually getting UP when my alarm goes off at six o'clock every morning and I'm trying to get myself in bed at ten every night... which hasn't been happening.

Me and my dad are going to go climb two or three mountains in the Black Mountain Range in about a week. We've been eating really good and working out really hard for about three weeks now to prepare! :)

Other than that, not a lot is going on. Just the same ol' routine around the house every day, but I'm learning to love it. God has blessed me SO much!

~*~Olivia~*~

Galatians 6:9
Let us not lose heart in doing good,
for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.

Sleepless nights

2009-01-23T08:37:00.000-08:00

I have been having a hard time fixing my sleep here lately. I think I've set my alarm for 6 a.m. for the past week and literally listen to it go off for 60 seconds straight while I'm half asleep, and then get up at eight or nine, haha! Anyway, last night I was hyper and wide awake at midnight, and Stephen (my older brother and my buddy!) was in bed trying to get to sleep. So I sat at the end of his bed and kept the poor guy up forever just talking to him and telling him how board I was, and telling him stories and splashing a little water on his face when I got really bored a couple of times... and he just took it all like a good brother...he cracks me up. We must have stayed up till one in the morning.

Well, this morning, as usual, I ignored my alarm and woke up at nine o'clock in my parent's bed (they're out of town...good times...good times) and I turned on the TV and watched the Rachael Ray show and drank two cups of coffee which motivated me (the caffeine, that is) to work out for an hour. And, so, I'm sitting here and desperately need to shower and then make lunch for me and my siblings. I'm also so hoping that the Bon Jovi DVD I ordered comes in the mail today! :-)
FYI - I'm back in the studio, and putting a band together. Please keep my ministry in your prayers.
That's all for now!!

~Livvy

Ephesians 3:20, 21

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.

Music! Music! MINISTRY!!

2009-01-04T06:42:00.000-08:00

Okay, updates...

My parents are going to be gone Monday through Wednesday (?). I have to start school back up Monday, both for myself and for my sibling. Yuck. However!! I'm hoping to start working on an album (Yes, you heard correctly dear friends!:) in March... Hopefully! I really need everybody's prayers here. Finances are not looking the best for my family lately which will greatly affect whether or not it happens. : /

I'm finally starting to pick back up on guitar and I'm so excited! I'm really hoping to join a church and a songwriting group and find a band soon to start touring around this time next year, so please pray for that too! Because we don't have any $$ we're counting on people to help us out without counting on anything in return so there is absolutely no guaranty anything will happen.

I'm trying not to get a cold here. I feel gross off and on. Must stop the sugar intake!

Well I guess that's about it. Tomorrow it's back to lots of music practice, lots of cooking, lots of school, and lots of quiet time with God as always!!

Later~

Livvy

Christmas

2008-12-25T06:45:00.000-08:00

Well, it's Christmas morning, and my parents are both down with a stomach flu virus as well as my little sister (to add to our already hard circumstances!). So, afew minutes ago, I was lying in my bed feeling sorry for myself, when it occurred to me what an awesome opportunity this was to truly focus on Jesus on Christmas. I have unopened gifts under the tree right now, and the weird thing is, I really don't even care. When I'm done writing this, I'm going to do my devotions, and read the Christmas story in Luke.
Every time something small (or big) like this happens, I can always hear God saying, "Olivia! Wake up! Can't you see this is your opportunity to come closer to me? I've given you the privilege of having no one but me to lean on in this moment, and I want so badly for you to see that this is beautiful."
I don't know that we're even going to have Christmas today. My little brother, Ethan, is being so patient. He's given so much effort to be good and he hasn't asked to open a gift once!
I am so thankful to be able to have alone time with Jesus. Right here. Right now. To come closer to Him through what seems like a terrible day, and prepare my heart for the tougher ones ahead. I love how God can turn depressing situations into a total blessing. And I haven't even began to see all He can do.
Job 26:12-14
12 By his power he churned up the sea;
by his wisdom he cut Rahab to pieces.

13 By his breath the skies became fair;
his hand pierced the gliding serpent.

14 And these are but the outer fringe of his works;
how faint the whisper we hear of him!
Who then can understand the thunder of his power?"

Song in the works

2008-12-14T10:35:00.000-08:00

So... as a lot of you guys know, we're going through a bit of a hard time here at home. Well, a few weeks ago, when things started getting hard, my mom was hugging me while I cried and softly said, "Maybe you'll write a beautiful song out of all this." I didn't think anything of it at the time, but God has spoken to my heart in so many ways, that, the other night, I finally felt ready to sit down with pen and paper. So I said a little prayer, and here is the beginning of the first song I've written in a long time:

My feelings are lost behind
Words I can't seem to find
All I am
Has faded away
I feel exposed
All I can do is pray

So say the words
I cannot speak
And be my strength
When I am weak
I'm sorry that it took so long
To admit that I am nothing alone
It takes me crashing to the ground
Unable to move or make a sound
To realize you are all I need
For you must become more
And I must decrease

I am hurt
But I am healed
For I am loved
The promise is sealed
If that is all the hope I have -
Your unchanging love -
Then for that I'm glad

Shut my mouth
And change my heart
Mend it where
It's broken apart
Here's my offer
Here's my hand
Here's my life
Lord, Here I am.

New Blog!

2008-12-12T04:12:00.000-08:00

Hey guys!

I'm finally starting a blog here! WOO HOO!!!

I decided to name my page "Becoming less and less" because of one of my all time FAVORITE verses

John 3:30

He must become greater; I must become less.

Anyway... I have to scoot right now, but I can't wait to get started on here. TTYL!

Livvy~

Becoming less and less

Music

What does it mean to be a Godly woman?

Missions Trip and Life

Practicing Yoga

Music

Salvation

Sore throat

Day 30 - A picture of someone you miss.

Day 29 - A picture that can always make you smile.

Day 28 - A picture of something you're afraid of.

Day 27 - A picture of yourself and a family member.

Day 26 - A picture of something that means a lot to you.

Day 25 - A picture of your day.

Day 24 - A picture of something you wish you could change.

Day 23 - A picture of your favorite book.

Day 22 - A picture of something you wish you were better at.

Day 21 - A picture of something you wish you could forget.

Day 20 - A picture of somewhere you'd love to travel.

Day 19 - A picture of you when you were little.

Day 18 - A picture of your biggest insecurity.

Day 17 - A picture of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently.

Day 16 - A picture of someone who inspires you.

Day 15 - A picture of something you want to do before you die.

Day 14 - A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without.

Day 13 - A picture of your favorite band or artist.

Day 12 - A picture of something you love.

Day 11 - A picture of something you hate.

Day 10 - A picture of the person you do the most messed up things with.

Day 09 - A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most.

Day 08 - A picture that makes you laugh.

Day 07 - A picture of your most treasured item.

Day 06 - A picture of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day.

Day 05 - A picture of your favorite memory.

Day 04 - A picture of your night.

Day 03 - A picture of the cast from your favorite show.

Day 02 - A picture of you and the person you have been close with for the longest.

Day 1 - a picture of yourself with fifteen facts

Coffee :)

Drawing Closer

Prayer Request

I don't even know. I just started writing.

MEN

Stupid Inhaler!!!!

True Security

Pain

Sick

Holding it all in

Music

Summer = ewww

Life

When life gets tough...

Just Passing Through (:

A Second Chance

Contentment

Cooking

Remember, remember, the fifth of November...

Brain Break

Food and music

Cooking

~*~ LOVED ~*~

1,000 miles from home

God is a God of NEWNESS! :)

Mary and Martha

giving it to GOD

Random thoughts

Getting Fit 4 Du Mountains!!

Sleepless nights

Music! Music! MINISTRY!!

Christmas

Song in the works

New Blog!

~~ LOVED ~~