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Articles, Devotionals, Disability, Family, Friendship, Holidays

2016 in Review – Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! 🎄🎄🎄

If I had one word to sum up 2016, I would say hard. This year I had high hopes that my health would be restored but things have not worked out that way. However, things have happened exactly as they were supposed too. One quote describes exactly how I feel. Kelli Stuart states, There is a lot of evil in the world but there is also a lot of good, so let’s focus on the good. In 2016, I have seen a lot of good in the midst of hard. When I’m feeling down I remind myself of the good God has done. His grace is sufficient. I do not know what my future holds, or if my prayers will be answered in the way I think they should be. Although, I do know God will give me His strength to press on. Since being sick, I have begun to view life in a different way.

Life is short and none of us know what is ahead so instead of spending our days weary, bitter, or worried, we should be obedient to Jesus and live everyday to the fullest. Also, we need to live each day offering love and forgiveness to those around us. His yoke is easy and His burden is light, and we need to accept the peace that Jesus longs to give us.

I have started writing a list of what I call “Daily Joys.” Each day I write about the joys of my day and this helps me fight the battle of discouragement. I plan to chronicle my daily joys throughout 2017, and I hope you will do the same. You will be surprised how much cheer this exercise brings to a difficult day. Below are a few of my “Daily Joys,” and the good I have found in this year.

– My Salvation – My relationship with Jesus makes life worth living, He is my Savior and the Lover of my Soul.

-God has literally walked my family and I through fires and have helped us stand firm in the midst of difficult circumstances.

– Grace upon grace. Jesus revealed this to me in the deepest ways this year. One of my favorite songs says, “your grace abounds in deepest waters.” That is so true, and such a gift. This year when I’ve felt like everything was caving around me, Jesus always rescued me.

– Wondeful home health and Palliative nurses – This group of ladies bless and encourage me daily. All of my nurses and my palliative care physician have gone above and beyond what is expected in their care for me this year. I love each of you. Thanks for serving me so well and fighting for me!

– Everything has been stripped away. My health, job, finances, etc. While this may not sound good at first, it is. It is good because it has allowed me to lean on Jesus more than ever before, and I’ve seen a Him show up in amazing ways. He always provides.

– My Family – My parents have always been my best friends but during this trial we have gotten even closer. They take such good care of me, and I’ve treasured the extra moments we’ve had together. Also, I’m thankful for the extra time I get to spend with my extended family. My Gran stays with me two days a week to help out and my aunt and cousin Lexi visit me every Saturday. I’m so grateful for the extra time spent with them. They truly bring goodness and joy to my days.

– My Friends – When you experience trials, it shows you who are your true friends are. While most of my best friends aren’t local, they have encouraged me this year, and God has used them to bless me tremendously. They are my prayer warriors, encouragers, and counselors. I know I can always count o these ladies. They hold me up and are my tribe.

– My dogs Coco and Lucy – Animals are a gift from the Lord and they bring me so much joy each day. I thank God for them.

As you go throughout this Christmas week, take some time to reflect and thank God for the good He has given you this year.

Also, stay tuned to my blog as I have some new blog series that I will be announcing in the new year. In the meantime though I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I will see you in 2017!

Articles, Christian Living, Family, Holidays, Music

Circle of Love

” Circle of love, halo of light. When Jesus was born on that Christmas night, and oh what a night, that holy night was, when Bethlehem glowed with a circle of love.”

If you know me, you know that I love Christmas movies, and for the last two years NBC has aired two movies written and produced by Dolly Parton. Both movies were inspired by true stories from Dolly’s childhood. The first one was called “Coat of Many Colors” based on the song that shared the same name. The second one is “Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love.” Dolly’s family was poor and didn’t have many earthly possessions but they were close to one another, and shared the love of Christ. These movies act as reminders for us today regarding what is most important. We would all benefit by learning a few lessons from Dolly and her family.

In the first one, Dolly’s mom made her a coat using old patchwork material. She treasured it and thought it was wonderful but her peers made fun of her. The experience upset and embarrassed her at first, but as she matured she was proud, and wore it each day acting as if it was the latest fashion. That coat was more than a coat, it represented the sacrifice and love of a mother. Throughout the movie, the Partons endured much suffering but the best gift to the family was Dolly’s Father accepting the gift of Salvation. This was a true miracle, and an answer to prayer.

The second movie focused around Christmas again, and the family seemed closer to the Lord and each other more than ever before. However, money was tight and getting Christmas presents for each other was a real sacrifice. Dolly and her siblings decided to come together, earn money, and help buy their mother the wedding band she wanted. They were even willing to give up their own gifts so they could do this. This was such a reminder of selflessness and loving one another. Most children (or even adults) would not do what the Parton family did, especially with such a joyful spirit.

These movies shared truths of what is most important, but in the society we live in today those standards and values are no longer respected. The most impressive fact during each movie was the emphasis the writers put on Jesus Christ, and everyone’s need for Salvation. Dolly shined the light of Jesus and didn’t tone down the Gospel message even once. This is a rarity, especially for a network such as NBC. The movie dwelled on a simpler time and shared with us the priorities of loving Jesus, family, and others. The movies also portrayed great humility and selflessness. Those principles can never be taken away no matter how rich or poor someone is. By living with these attitudes peace and joy will fill your hearts.

Careers, money, or extravagant things won’t last forever, but loving Jesus, family, and others with a humble heart and mind will never fade.

We live in a world of hustle and carry the mindset that portrays “it’s all about me,” and the entertainment industry feeds this attitude. However, that makes for a miserable and chaotic life.

As you go through December spend some time loving Jesus and adopt His heart for others. Ask God to give you wisdom on how to best love and encourage those around you. Live in and accept God’s love because that is the best gift of all.

Visit here for more information and to watch the movie online, and be sure to watch with your family.

Articles, Blog Series, Christian Living, Family, Holidays

In Everything Give Thanks – Family

To continue my Thanksgiving Series today’s post will focus on my family.

I may be biased, but I have the best family in the world! God has blessed me with a wonderful group of people and I am thankful more than ever before, for the people that make up my tribe! Thankfully, most of my family lives nearby which makes it easier to talk and spend time with them.

I can honestly say that my parents are my best friends. I am thankful to the Lord every day that He chose them to be mine. They have been there through all the joyful times, and the hard times. Two years ago when my health problems worsened they helped me move back in with them and have taken care of me since. Through every pain, emotion, and many sleepless nights — they have been there, and never complained one time. Each day they represent Jesus to me, and I will never be able to thank them enough for how they have blessed me over the past 31 years. They are my heroes!

In addition to my parents, my extended family have been amazing as well. You know you are. Thanks for all the prayers, calls, visits, flowers, treats, and encouragement that you’ve sent my way lately. I love you all.

Special thanks to my sweet Gran who over the past couple of months have visited me every Tuesday and Thursday and spoils me by cooking lunch for me on those days! Love you, Gran, and so thankful for the time we spend together. Also, thanks to my aunt Ellen and my favorite four year old Lexi who visits me every Saturday. My hang out time with my “Mini BFF” brightens my week.

To all of my family, and friends who are like family – I love you more than words can say. Thanks for loving me so well. As Philippians 1:3 states, “I thank my God every time I remember you!”

Take a moment today to thank God for the family He has given you and tell them how grateful you are for them.

Articles, Christian Living, Daily Inspirations, Disability, Family, Friendship, Holidays

Thank You

Hi friends,

It has been a while since I have posted but I wanted to write a quick update regarding my health. The past few weeks have been extremely difficult. I have dealt with another bladder infection which is a very stubborn bacteria. I finished a round of iv antibiotic treatment one week ago, and unfortunately I think the infection is already returning. I will have another test tomorrow to confirm that and will hopefullly start another round of treatments. Please pray that the bacteria will show up clearly, that I will be put on the right antibiotic ASAP, and that we are given wisdom and the right resources moving forward regarding treatment options. The infection is still lingering, and I’m hoping to get started on medication again soon. Also, pray for me over Thanksgiving that I am able to enjoy time with family without being in pain, and that I keep the right attitude in the midst of hard.

Thank you all so much for the continued prayers and sweet notes you send my way. Even though I am not always able to respond I do read them all, and I am greatly encouraged by them. I am so thankful for each one of you and thank God for you daily!

Be sure to check the blog again tomorrow as I will start a series called “In Everything Give Thanks.” I look forward to sharing more with you. 🙂

Articles, Christian Living, Disability, Family, Friendship

Update from Amelia 💛

Hi friends! Thank you all so much for your prayers over the past few weeks.

My surgery went well. My intestines were kinked together and pressing against my abdominal wall, but Dr. Dobson was able to fix the problem without complications — Praise the Lord!

I am currently home and recovering. I saw Dr. Dobson again this past week and he is hopeful that things will continue to improve. However, I am still extremely weak so prayers for strength, energy, and stamina would be greatly appreciated. I have therapy exercises that I am doing, and am now able to get in the pool so that is helpful. Also, I have a wonderful home health nurse visiting me weekly which is super helpful and encouraging, and I also receive palliative care services. I recently received a hospital bed from palliative which has helped me rest so much better at home. I am deeply grateful for all of these healthcare professionals who make my recovery easier, and who help to ease my pain. They are such a huge blessing to me and my family. The Lord has been so good to me and I’m thankful for the strength He gives me daily to press on!

Thank you all for your continued prayers and support. It means so much to me. I am daily inspired by your calls, notes, and visits. I am still home bound and unable to be out and about but I love having phone calls and company for those who live nearby. Give me a call sometime or stop by for a visit. I would love to hear from you and know how you are doing. I am so thankful for all of you! Please let me know how I can pray for you as well!

I hope you all are enjoying the weekend and this warm weather! Summer is here! 😊

Articles, Christian Living, Disability, Family, Friendship

Leave it in the Hands of the Healer

On Friday (tomorrow), I go in for another surgery on my small bowel. Because of my previous surgeries, there could be a lot of risks involved with this. However, I am praying that all goes well and this will improve my quality of life. The past few months and especially the last few weeks have been extremely hard health-wise. I have spent a lot of time in bed with a lot of pain, but in the midst of all of the hard God has been incredibly gracious. He has blessed me with two wonderful parents who love and care for me so well. I know it is not always easy for them but they show Jesus to me everyday in their care of me. God has also blessed me with an amazing group of friends who daily encourage me in different ways, and are continually praying for me.

It is so much easier going through the hard seasons when you have a solid group of people alongside you. I thank God daily for the community He has given me. Most importantly though, I thank God for the relationship I have with Jesus Christ.

Without Jesus, I would be living as a lady with no hope. Without Jesus, I would be scared out of my mind right now (I am nervous, but I would be even more so without the Lord), and without Jesus, I would be bitter. But Jesus still gives me LIFE and HOPE even on the most dreary days.

When my body is tired and overwhelmed, and I am not knowing how to pray the Lord knows. He understands, and is giving me the nudge I need to carry on. At times it may seem that the Lord is completely absent but He is not. He is always there loving and leading. The Lord knows me better than anybody and loves me more than anyone ever could so why do I doubt Him? Why do I fear? He has proven faithful over the course of my 31 years, and He will continue to do so.

Over the weekend, I let thoughts of fear and worry creep in my mind. They brought along misery, sadness, anger, and doubt. During those moments the Lord gently reminded me that since I have Him, I should have no fear. This verse came to mind from Isaiah 41:10 –

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

This truth from Scripture reminded me that I have no reason to worry. God wants to know that I trust Him and will surrender my everything to Him even if I don’t know what the future holds.

My act of obedience during this season is trusting the Lord and fearing Him instead of fearing my circumstances.

As Friday nears I am focusing on fearing God and trusting Him to carry me through. As one of my favorite songs says, “leave it in the hands of the Healer and walk away.”

Surrender your fears to Him today and His peace will rule in your heart more than you could ever imagine.

Thank you to all who have prayed for me. Your prayers are being felt, and are greatly encouraging. My friend Erin will be updating via email. If you would like to receive these updates join the Google Group here, or send me a message.

Articles, Books, Family, Reading

The Mother Letters Book Review

My Thoughts:

The Mother Letters by Amber and Seth Haines is a must read for moms out there. I am not even a mom and they encouraged me. The idea for this book started out as a gift that Seth gave his wife Amber one year for Christmas. He contacted several women who were her mentors, and ladies whose blogs encouraged her and asked them to write letters to her uplifting and giving her advice on motherhood. They agreed, and many of those letters is what formed this book. Each one of these letters offers an inspiring word of faith, a breath of fresh air, a respite, and a laugh for the mom who needs a break. If you are friends with a new mom this would make a great gift for her. I look forward to reading more from this couple!

I was given this book by Netgalley in exchange for a review.

Purchase a copy of the book here.

About the Authors:

Amber C. Haines, author of Wild in the Hollow, is a soulful writer and blogger at TheRunaMuck.com and a regular contributor to DaySpring’s (in)courage. She loves the church and finds community among the broken.

Seth Haines, author of Coming Clean, writes at SethHaines.com and is a regular contributor to various publications.

Together, Seth and Amber make their home in the Arkansas Ozarks with their four boys.

Articles, Blog Fun, Christian Living, Devotionals, Family, Sports

Happy Monday!

Happy Monday, friends. I am sure the talk in your house or work place this morning is about the super bowl’s outcome. I love me some football, and it has been a super weekend celebrating with family (mom, thanks for all the delicious food)! Of course being the Carolina girl that I am, I was cheering for the Panthers. It was sad to see them lose but it has been a great season, and congrats to all the Broncos fans.

I know things have been quiet on the blog since the new year has begun, but my health hasn’t been cooperating. I have had one infection right after the other, but the Lord has been good to renew my strength day after day, and I am grateful for that. I would appreciate prayers for continued healing — that infections and all bowel blockages will stay away. Thanks friends. I greatly appreciate all of your prayers and encouragement as I have walked this journey.

Also, keep watch on the blog this week as I will be posting some new articles as well as information about a new blog series I will be starting soon.

I hope you all have a wonderful day. No matter how busy you are or how overwhelmed life may be — take some time to stop and thank God for the little joys He has given you, and allow His peace to rule in your hearts and minds. God has brought John 16:33 to my mind many times lately and I pray that it encourages you like it has me. Jesus states, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Dwell on these truths today! 🙂

Articles, Family, Holidays

Let it Be Christmas

Merry Christmas Eve! It is one days before Christmas and many are traveling to visit family, while others are at home cooking, wrapping presents, and getting ready for family to come visit.

As for me, I have not been feeling well so I am spending the majority of the holiday at home. However, most of my family will come here on Christmas Day so I am looking forward to spending time with them. It is also nice to spend extra time with my parents, and I am enjoying the visits with friends who stop by. Even though I am not able to get out among the hustle and bustle of the holidays, I am very thankful for family — especially my mom, who tries to make things extra special here at home.

This past year has been a tough one, but the Lord has been faithful through it all. I am incredibly thankful this year for the gift of life, and not just my life, but most importantly for Jesus — and the meaning of His birth. I have never wanted a year to be over more than this one, but over the past couple months the Lord has done some great things in my heart and soul. Prior to and after my surgery last January, I lived with worry about the future, and in a state of disappointment that my life up to this point had not turned out the way that I had imagined that it would. However, the greatest gift God has given me this year is His peace. Over the past few months He has filled my heart with an acceptance of this season and given my mind an ease that could only come from Him. For that, I am very thankful.

Whatever this week looks like for you be present wherever you are.There are many times I am in a room with company and we are all on our phones texting, capturing moments, and posting them on Instagram. I know that I am personally guilty of this, and am trying to improve the habit. While there is nothing wrong with any of these things, we can spend too much of our quality time with others on our devices sharing with the world what we are doing. I am reminded more than ever on this holiday to treasure each moment and to live fully right where I am because none of us can know what the future may hold.

My challenge to you over Christmas and New Years is to put down your phones and Ipads and spend time with your family and friends without constantly looking down at your device every few minutes. I am not suggesting that you not take any photos through the holidays, or never be on your phones. Although, do not allow your time on social media platforms lessen the quality of your conversations, or distract from sweet family time that you will never get back. I pray that each of you will have a wonderful holiday with family and friends, but most importantly that you spend time with Jesus and celebrate who He is and what He has done.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours! I will see you in 2016!

Articles, Christian Living, Family, Holidays

Happy Thanksgiving 2015

“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.” ~Psalm 107:1

Happy Thanksgiving, friends! I hope you all enjoy this day with those you love. As I sit and ponder 2015 thus far, I am reminded of all that I have to be thankful for this year. I am more thankful for life today than ever before. If you have followed my journey, you know that this year has been a rough one for me health-wise. One year ago at this time I honestly did not know if I would live to see another Thanksgiving, but because of God’s lavish grace on me, I am here.

I am thankful that I get to spend today around family whom I love dearly, and enjoy being in their presence. Our family is extra grateful this year because my uncle Lewis has had his own health battle with cancer, but thankfully it is in remission. We are a tight-knit group, and his and my health problems have been hard on us all. My Aunt Ellen and I were talking the other day about how we are extremely blessed to be together this Thanksgiving because six months ago we did not know if that would be possible. Although, I am so glad that we serve a God that makes the impossible possible. Even in the midst of hardships, I can honestly say that the Lord is good, and that the He is faithful. We may not always understand why certain things happen or why we face certain trials, but the Lord is still good and He deserves all of our praise. We live in a fallen world and because of that — bad things happen, sicknesses occur, and sometimes life does not work out the way we think it should. However, I have learned from experience that through all of the uncertainty, we can be confident that God never changes. He promises to never leave or forsake us. This is why I can believe Psalm 107:1 to be true.

I will give thanks to the Lord today because He is good, and I know that His love does endure forever. His goodness and love are what gives me the strength to press on during the hard seasons.

Spend time with Jesus today and thank Him for who He is and what He has done for you.