Easter Weekend.

This was such a wonderful weekend. It seemed so busy but so relaxing all at the same time. Friday night was the Secret Church simulcast with David Platt, as seen in my previous post...it was amazing. As far as Saturday goes, I was relaxed. Today was crazy, awesome Easter Sunday.

Easter was always a big holiday growing up. My grandparents, especially my grandmother, would plan a huge celebration that included the best egg hunt know to kid-kind. Ever since she passed away the holiday has never been the same but as she's been gone I have grown in my relationship with Christ and He has become the reason. I am happy that I can remember her yet celebrate the fact that Jesus is Lord and is alive.

For the last two years my entire family has gone to church together and gone to my aunt's future home (a huge lot of land) and had a picnic and egg hunt. It's a beautiful corner lot that makes me feel like I am in the middle of the forest in Twilight.

We all bring food, eggs and settle in for the afternoon. The big kids even have some fun.

 Loved getting to see my sweet and dear sister, Hannah, and her little baby bump! We will have a new addition to the family come September!

 Once we all eat and start the egg hunt, we continue with a tradition my grandfather started. He would hide money eggs and prize eggs. Every grandchild would go home with some kind of prize and money. Since he passed all the big kids go home with a gold dollar and no toy-like prize. 

This year my younger cousin won confetti eggs...and enjoyed using them on his family within five minutes of winning them.

We all got to a point where we had eaten so much and been around everyone for too long so Will, Barton, Jackson and myself headed to end the day with a game of disc golf. Great idea if I do say so myself.

Overall it was a great Easter Sunday. What I love most is that the reason we celebrate Easter is something I should and can celebrate every day I am living. God sent His only Son who lived a perfect life, died and defeated the grave and rose again and is ALIVE! Praise the Lord for my Savior and what He did and is doing. I cannot wait for the day when He comes back to earth and calls me home.

"Do not be afraid, for I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. But He is not here, for he has risen!" 

-Matthew 28:6-7

I hope and pray you had an amazing Easter and that God touched your soul with the real meaning of why we celebrate today. God is sovereign, and amazing, and worthy of all glory...even if there is a bunny...

Day #4.

Day #4: A picture of your night.

If you keep up with my blog you have seen this picture before. My night consists of writing. Almost every night, I climb into bed, surround myself with my multiple pillows and blankets and open this colorful book up and fill it with my thoughts, happenings and prayers. I've been writing in this one since September of 2009. I made a deal with myself that I could only go back and read if I was writing on the same day as last year. Sometimes I am able to go back and sometimes not, but it's a deal that keeps me and my heart safe. And it keeps me from staying up all night reliving journal-worthy moments. But nonetheless, my night is writing and sharing my heart with God. 

Great Friday.

I have always enjoyed Good Friday. Each one for the past few years holds dear and fond memories in different ways. This year I began a new small group that meets on Thursday nights. This past Thursday we met and went through the death and resurrection of Christ. It was beautiful and moving. I was excited to see a group of people I know, care about and do life with, fall into a deeper love with Jesus.

I wasn't sure that my weekend of exploring God's Word about His Son could get much better, but last night I attended the Secret Church simulcast at my church.

I've been lucky enough to hear David Platt speak before at Passion and I have read his book, Radical. He is an amazing, encouraging, strong servant of the Lord and he is one of those people you just can't get enough of. I sat down around a table with my church family and we dug into six hours of intense, deep study of God's Word and what He says about the crucifixion, salvation and glory of God. Within those we explored doctrines, atonement, conversion, regeneration, sanctification, election and justification, to name a few. We spent six hours digging into almost two-hundred pages of scripture. 

Absolutely amazing.

Completely overwhelming.

Fully fallen in love.

We learned so much and I am so thankful for the opportunity to learn more about what God's Word says about Him and what He says based on His Word. I pray we can all come to understand more what was really done for God and for us. I pray God's chosen people are brought up to speak truth into our brothers and sisters who have never heard of Jesus. I pray for our persecuted church; that they may be sustained, protected, provided for and supported. I pray I can be used to further the kingdom of God in the way that He sees fit. Thank you, Lord, for I love you so. Thank you for being with me forever.

And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

-Matthew 28:18-20

For more information on David Platt and the Secret Church, click here.

Day #3.

Day #3: A picture of the cast from your favorite show.

If you don't know what show this cast comes from then you and I are officially not friends anymore...just kidding! Full House. The best show I ever wasted time watching. I can remember being very little and watching it over, and over, and over. I love that you can still watch reruns of it and you can buy every season on DVD. You've never seen me so excited! It was and is a wonderful show and takes me back to a good time in my childhood. Who wouldn't want to live in the full house? 

Day #2.

Day #2: A picture of you and the person you have been close with for the longest.

This is Hannah. She was born when I was close to two and she was my best friend since the moment we met. I had no siblings yet and wouldn't ever have a real sister, but we instantaneously clicked and spent time together whenever we could. I remember endless days of playing American Girl dolls, sleepovers, and summers in the dollhouse. We would make mud pies, pretend to be mermaids and she even taught me how to swim. Every single family get-together we would both bring an over night bag, knowing someone would go home with the other. We have always been closer than close and she means the absolute world to me. She is not only my cousin, but my sister. The picture above is from her wedding back on New Year's Day. I was honored to stand by her side as her maid of honor and see her marry a wonderful man. I know God has got amazing things ahead for her and she'll never know how much she means to me. 

Day #1.

Okay, I am finally giving in. I've been told over and over that I "need" to do the 60 day photo challenge that is running all over Facebook. I don't really have the time to do this but I do have the photos...

...So why not?

Day #1: A picture of yourself with fifteen facts.

1. I am addicted to coffee. Yes, addicted. 

2. I have a passion to teach children, especially about God.

3. Pink is my favorite color.

4. I am highly organized...to the point where my closet is item and color coded.

5. I love my job and I pray I can continue it for a very long time.

6. Best trip I've ever been on is to the Dominican Republic.

7. I am the oldest of 3 children. I have two younger brothers.

8. I like all types of music, except for the screamo stuff.

9. I am an Apple lover. 

10. My birthday is in May. 

11. I love all seasons. Don't have a favorite. Each one seems to come at the right time.

12. I spend A LOT of time writing. It's just what I do.

13. I love to be outdoors. Much better than sitting inside.

14. I've always been addicted to photography. I have every picture I've ever taken since I was 18 on disc, in order of date. (There's a hint into the o.c.d....)

15. You'll hear at least one of these again, I'm sure.

His future in us.

"Every experience God gives us,

every person He puts in our lives

is in preparation for the future

that only He can see."

What comes to your mind when you read that quote? 

I am reminded of certain experiences I've had in my almost 24 years. I can recall many times where I have experienced things and wondered what the heck did I do to deserve such pain, hurt and uncertainty. In those moments all I could do is ask why, but once it's over and I am able to look back I see what I learned and God tells me why I went through what I did. I am able to grow as a woman, as many things, and as a follower of Jesus Christ.

I am also reminded of people that have passed in and out of my life. So many have come and so many have gone. Have you ever wondered how many people you've encountered? When I think about how big that number is it makes me wonder how many of them are actually still in my life. I wonder why certain people came in, some bringing pain and some bringing joy. I wonder why some aren't still in my life. I wonder how many more God has laid in my path that I don't know yet. Either way, they all have taught me or are teaching em something about life, myself or my Father.

The future is one thing that only God can see. I sometimes-okay, a lot of the time- find myself worried sick about people, events, plans in the future and it's comforting to know that no matter what I do it is all in His hands. No matter how much I worry or freak out He has got it all under control and I know He has my best interest at heart.

A lot of people say this, but I truly believe everything happens for a reason.

Every person, situation, day, word happens for a reason.

He allows everything for a reason, but it's all in preparation for something.

What's hard is that we don't always know what that 'something' is.

But take heart in this because I am fighting this feeling of uncertainty, too.

My lately.

I don't even know where to start when it comes to how I've been lately. Lots of feelings, emotions and frustrations. Depending on God for literally everything, but there's a peace deep within that sense of uncertainty.

 I've been spending a lot of time with my brothers, which I always enjoy. I thank the Lord often that we are all so close. I never would have thought I'd love my little brothers like I do. Recently, Barton and I went to a concert at Rocketown in Nashville benefitting Africa's orphans and Japan's relief fund. The concert featured artists that we both really enjoy, but more so, share the gospel of Jesus Christ in an awesome and powerful way. They are all christian rap artists: Pro, Shonlock and Lecrae.

All three are incredible, but Lecrae is definitely my favorite. If you've never heard of him, you can check him out here. The other are also definitely worth a chance. They're all about sharing Jesus through amazing gifts and talents.

I've also been spending a lot of time outdoors and with people I love and adore. I was with a dear friend the other night and we went out to see her son play in a soccer game.

I've been seeing God in the little things. Like the beauty in the lights, the grass and the children running around.

Today I left work and went to spend time with another dear friend. We were both frustrated and ill with things of this life and decided to get out, talk and be outdoors. We spent the afternoon walking and talking and it was just what I needed.

 I've gotten to be with dear friends and celebrate milestones and new seasons of life. I got to spend last weekend with my best friend from college and go shopping for her wedding dress. It was a sweet, tender moment to share. I was thankful to be there and am honored to be in her wedding come November. I'd share a picture but I can't spoil that beauty. She's the best friend you could possibly ask for.

I am very thankful I got to share in another dear friend's birthday this week. Jennie and I work together and not only is she an amazing co-worker but she is a very dependable, sweet and encouraging friend. I thank God for her often.

On a more tender note, Barton goes to prom tomorrow. I cannot believe it. It seems like yesterday he was born and I was asking my mom to send him back to the hospital because he was so loud. That was almost 18 years ago...I was six and loving my quiet life, and then Barton came to liven it up. I am so very thankful for him and he is so incredibly dear to my heart. I can't believe he's growing...well, grown up.

 With all this going on and trying to get through each day without tears and frustration this is getting a lot of use:

Writing and praying are the only things that get me through each day. I type a lot and try to work on my blog often, but most of the time I am picking up my Bible and reading comforting passages or my journal and just writing thoughts, wishes and prayers. My comfort is in communication...communicating with my heart, my mind, my soul, my desires, my fears, my doubts, my frustrations, my people and most of all, my heavenly Father.

I am currently working on a side project that is hitting the ground running and getting a lot of attention and listening to this song. It's by a wonderful friend of mine, Holly Cormier.

Just praying God continues to guide me, for I know He is the lamp for the current time. 

His plan.

So many of us know Jeremiah 29:11...

"For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord.

"They are plans for good and not for disaster, 

to give you a future and a hope."

But all too often we quote it and share it with friends without really thinking about what it means.

A friend of mine recently moved from Nashville to a suburb outside of Chicago. Although she was excited about her husband being promoted, she didn't want to leave her life here behind, especially her home. In her storybook life, she had found a dream home after a once in a lifetime wedding and honeymoon. But as they left, she saw her everything here in Tennessee, not in Illinois.

Her home and things of this life had become what she trusted in and her security. More so, it had become her identity. She felt like it was where she belonged, but in the midst of the pain and state she was in, God showed her some amazing things that she shared with me earlier this week. "Security doesn't come from possessions or a dream home or a nice car...I am secure in the Lord and when I trust in Him." Her words hit home as we talked about the adventure God has placed her in. She spoke of her comfort zones and how God has shed light into mistrust and lack of faith and how she is learning to depend on Him to meet her needs. Through laughs, tears and deep girl talk I learned more of a dear friend and saw how she is embracing what God has planned for her, even though she has no idea what's going to happen.

Why can't I be like that?

As I thought about it more God has grown my thoughts and understanding. His plan is one way He expresses love to us. God's plan, exposed or not, is an expression of His perfect love because His plan is perfect. He always knows what's best. He takes everything, good and bad, and uses it for purpose in our life. What's hard is when He is at work in our life and risks are at stake. It's hard because a lot of the time we have to live by faith. We have to trust completely in Him and not a home, a career, a mate, nor ourselves, and depend on Him fully. 

His plan is sovereign and almighty and perfect. It's something we can hope for and hope in. It's is the perfect plan for us. He wants us to trust in Him and have faith in Him. Although difficult and sometimes hard to do, especially when He is silent, He hasn't left us.

He's sovereign.

He's satisfying.

He's fulfilling.

He's grace.

He's enough.

Little things.

Wednesday is always a long day for me. I arrive at work early in the morning and leave around 8 o'clock at night. Most people would look at that day and think I'm crazy for actually enjoying it, but I honestly do. I've been grateful for a job that I truly enjoy and love more than anything.

Last Wednesday I was in my usual spot gearing up for the evening ahead. With papers in neat stacks, everything in order and ready to go, I heard a "Ms. Abbey" from around the corner. I saw a dear and familiar face...a little girl from my small group, Lexie. She came up and embraced me with a hug, as they all do, and put this in my hands:

My heart sunk as I saw her face light up as she handed me my homemade coffee cup. She began to explain each little detail like the tie-dye duct tape, the homemade handle, and how hard it was to make and 'a' with tape that's so sticky. I gave her two big hugs and thanked her for the coffee mug. She told me she saw me drink a lot of coffee at camp and thought I could use my own mug...can't argue there.

As she walked away and I admired the mug, I turned it over to see a homemade, handwritten label that said:

Hand-wash only.

Handmade by Lexie L.

For Ms. Abbey

It's the little things in life that make my days. Children being so thoughtful and making my job and life so wonderful.

Thank you, Lord.

And no, I have yet to give the one-of-a-kind coffee mug a try.

03.2011

Where in the world did March go?

I feel like March came and went within a weeks time. A month hasn't gone by this fast for me in a long time. A lot happened this month. Besides work being absolutely crazy, and putting on our spring break retreat, God has been teaching me a lot in this season and I love to look back at what He has given me.

I have spent a lot of time working this month but I am one of those people who absolutely adore my job. It's my holy passion and I love every minute of it...even if we are all crazy! :)

I love that spring has finally sprung. There's nothing like looking at God's creations all around us, whether that be in people, nature, or the heavens above.

I was lucky enough to spend some time with a dear friend recently. Concerts are one of my favorite things to go and do and when Brooke asked if I wanted to attend with her, there was no hesitation. It got me excited for the summer! :)

April...you, like most months, have a lot to live up to. I hope you include more time with family and friends, answers from my Father above and maybe this new addition to my left foot?

It's Hebrew for "my father's joy." It's what 'abbey' means.

I think it would be a good addition, but we will see if that's what He wants.