I'm a day behind! Ahh!
Oh well, this song has been on my heart lately.
I hope it blesses you!
"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." Psalm 18:2
You are my strong tower!
Shelter over me.
Beautiful and mighty.
Everlasting king.
Your mercy sets me free!
You are my strong tower.
Fortress when I'm weak
Your Name is true and holy
You are my strong tower
Shelter over me
Beautiful and mighty
Everylasting king!
You are my strong tower, and your face is all I see.
I struggled to understand this song and verse for the longest time.
Now, just signing it, and praying the actual verse aloud, I feel the power of God in me.
Pray this aloud with me today:
"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." AMEN
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Saturday, November 24, 2012
"Rise of the Guardians" Represents Hope, Wonder, Dreams and Memories
"Hope, Wonder, Dreams and Memories are depicted in Rise of the Guardians", says Peter Ramsey, Director.
Rise of the Guardians is a film about the Heroes that Guard the Innocence, Dreams, and Beliefs of Childhood:
Jack Frost, North (Santa), Toothfairy, Easter Bunny, and Sandman.
These imaginative characters take on "The Boogyman", Pitch Black, and his "Night Mares". When I had the opportunity to interview Peter Ramsey, I asked him how Christians and families might interpret the film.
"Having some kind of imagination and make-believe is important for kids. Our Santa, and all of our Guardians represent GREAT HUMAN VALUES. Period. We want all children to be exposed to these values. We kept it real. Everyone who worked on the film felt like it was good to work on a project about POSITIVE things.
I would have to agree!
I really enjoyed the film, but was rather shocked about the fact that "North", the character who represents Santa Claus, had tattoos!!
When I asked Mr. Ramsey about North, he responded, "North is meant to be shocking, so you would kinda wake up and look at him in a slightly different way. Hopefully you start to realize things you had not thought about for a long time. He’s a warrior for children, who will do anything to protect kids. He has different sides to him, but it will all come together to show he will go to all lengths to do anything for kids. Wild & untamed force of nature and passionate about what he does. Gives him an edge, and passion."
The intensity of North is balanced well by the cute little Elves! They were extremely humorous and entertaining, in a simplistic way!
My children and I really enjoyed watching "Rise of the Guardians" and highly recommend the positive message of Hope that comes across when Good Prevails over the realistic scary nightmares brought about by fear!
As Peter Ramsey says, "The movie is about basic things like hope, dreams, wonder and memory. Everybody feels those things."
Find more information about the movie Rise of the Guardians HERE.
Jack Frost, North (Santa), Toothfairy, Easter Bunny, and Sandman.
These imaginative characters take on "The Boogyman", Pitch Black, and his "Night Mares". When I had the opportunity to interview Peter Ramsey, I asked him how Christians and families might interpret the film.
"Having some kind of imagination and make-believe is important for kids. Our Santa, and all of our Guardians represent GREAT HUMAN VALUES. Period. We want all children to be exposed to these values. We kept it real. Everyone who worked on the film felt like it was good to work on a project about POSITIVE things.
I would have to agree!
I really enjoyed the film, but was rather shocked about the fact that "North", the character who represents Santa Claus, had tattoos!!
When I asked Mr. Ramsey about North, he responded, "North is meant to be shocking, so you would kinda wake up and look at him in a slightly different way. Hopefully you start to realize things you had not thought about for a long time. He’s a warrior for children, who will do anything to protect kids. He has different sides to him, but it will all come together to show he will go to all lengths to do anything for kids. Wild & untamed force of nature and passionate about what he does. Gives him an edge, and passion."
The intensity of North is balanced well by the cute little Elves! They were extremely humorous and entertaining, in a simplistic way!
My children and I really enjoyed watching "Rise of the Guardians" and highly recommend the positive message of Hope that comes across when Good Prevails over the realistic scary nightmares brought about by fear!
As Peter Ramsey says, "The movie is about basic things like hope, dreams, wonder and memory. Everybody feels those things."
Find more information about the movie Rise of the Guardians HERE.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Musical Monday ~ "No Matter What"
I LOVE this song, and need to listen to it often to help me remember that
GOD loves me, no matter what!
I hope Kerrie Roberts' song blesses you as much as I feel blessed when I listen!
"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
"I’m convinced that nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus our Lord: not death or life, not angels or rulers, not present things or future things, not powers or height or depth, or any other thing that is created." Romans 8:38-39
GOD loves me, no matter what!
I hope Kerrie Roberts' song blesses you as much as I feel blessed when I listen!
"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
"I’m convinced that nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus our Lord: not death or life, not angels or rulers, not present things or future things, not powers or height or depth, or any other thing that is created." Romans 8:38-39
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Thankful Thursday ~ Extended Family
Today I am very thankful for my extended family.
I married into a family one generation off from my own.
In other words, my grandmother graduated from high school with my mother-in-law. So, my uncles and aunts are the ages of my sister-in-laws.
When I met my husband, he told me he was the youngest of 5, and the only boy! Yikes! How was I to fit in with 4 older sisters??
I am the oldest of 4. Opposites attract for sure! I am a typical oldest child, a pleaser, and perfectionist in many things. I have always been sure of myself, and never questioned that I could accomplish anything I put my mind to.
My husband is more of an only-child and baby combined. He's the only boy, and the youngest. We really do but heads sometimes, since we are both very stubborn. But, I don't have to worry about his family accepting me, like I had originally anticipated.
I have wonderful in-laws! They are all very accepting and gracious. They bless our family, as I had always hoped they would! I can count on my mother-in-law and sister-in-law who live nearby to babysit my kids every once in a while. Today, for instance, my youngest will spend the day with my sister-in-law, so I can indulge in a movie marathon with my girlfriends! My nieces will babysit my older two children when they get home from school. What a blessing!
My mom and sister also help out in these ways, and we all get together often!
I pray that all families can look past their differences, to bless each other and be kind to one another in all they do.
"Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord." Colossians 3:20
"Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! Let Israel say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Let the house of Aaron say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Let those who fear the Lord say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free." Psalm 118:1-18
I married into a family one generation off from my own.
In other words, my grandmother graduated from high school with my mother-in-law. So, my uncles and aunts are the ages of my sister-in-laws.
When I met my husband, he told me he was the youngest of 5, and the only boy! Yikes! How was I to fit in with 4 older sisters??
I am the oldest of 4. Opposites attract for sure! I am a typical oldest child, a pleaser, and perfectionist in many things. I have always been sure of myself, and never questioned that I could accomplish anything I put my mind to.
My husband is more of an only-child and baby combined. He's the only boy, and the youngest. We really do but heads sometimes, since we are both very stubborn. But, I don't have to worry about his family accepting me, like I had originally anticipated.
I have wonderful in-laws! They are all very accepting and gracious. They bless our family, as I had always hoped they would! I can count on my mother-in-law and sister-in-law who live nearby to babysit my kids every once in a while. Today, for instance, my youngest will spend the day with my sister-in-law, so I can indulge in a movie marathon with my girlfriends! My nieces will babysit my older two children when they get home from school. What a blessing!
My mom and sister also help out in these ways, and we all get together often!
I pray that all families can look past their differences, to bless each other and be kind to one another in all they do.
"Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord." Colossians 3:20
"Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! Let Israel say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Let the house of Aaron say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Let those who fear the Lord say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free." Psalm 118:1-18
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Wordless Wednesday ~ World Diabetes Day
Today we pray for all families effected by Diabetes. It is such a terrible disease, that makes every day life torturous for some. Please, Lord, provide strength, peace, pain relief, and a CURE! Amen
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
"Rise Of the Guardians" GIVEAWAY - Passes to Sneak Peek 11/19
My 8-year-old daughter has been waiting and waiting for this movie to be released!
Would you like to see "Rise of the Guardians" before it is released?
My daughter and I will be there!
Simply fill out this Rafflecopter form for your chance to win!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
**A few disclaimers:
**This giveaway is ONLY available to those readers in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area, who can make it to the theater on November 19, 2012 before 7:00 p.m.
If you do win passes, you must arrive early to secure a seat. A pass does not guarantee entry, but simply the opportunity to view the movie if you get there early enough. These previews often sell out!
More about the movie, "RISE OF THE GUARDIANS": (In Digital 3D and 2D) An epic and magical adventure that tells the story of Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, the Sandman, and Jack Frost – legendary characters with previously unknown extraordinary abilities. When an evil spirit known as Pitch lays down the gauntlet to take over the world, the immortal Guardians must join forces to protect the hopes, beliefs and imagination of children everywhere. Starring the voices of Chris Pine, Alec Baldwin, Hugh Jackson, Isla Fisher and Jude Law. Directed by Peter Ramsey. (DREAMWORKS ANIMATION) Rated PG.
Blessings ~Kristen
Ignorance is NOT Bliss
Be kinder to those around you than you must, for each is fighting some kind of battle.
Everyone is living some kind of challenge.
Mine today is that mountain of laundry in my laundry room staring me in the face, daring me to wash, dry, fold and put away all of the towels, sheets, blankets, clothes, and other miscellaneous stuff in there!
Seriously, I am blessed to even have a laundry room, with a fully functioning washer and dryer. I don't take this for granted!
I still HATE doing the laundry!
Satan sends me so many distractions, including this computer. I really need to fight the evil influences, and get blessing my family through their laundry!
As silly as that may sound, that is how I look at it!
Whenever I am around people, I try to remember that everyone is fighting some kind of battle. It could be the battle of the laundry, or an addiction, abuse, or a case of very low self-esteem.
Be KINDER than you have to be to EVERYONE you meet!
Imagine, if everyone was KIND to you, while you are in the depths of your battle. Would kindness from others improve your mood? Change your outlook on life?
Kindness can do so much. Sometimes, all it takes is a SMILE to show someone how much God really loves them!
"For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves." 1 Peter 2:15-16
"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4:32
"Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins." 1 Peter 4:8
Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind." 1 Peter 3:8
"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." Ephesians 4:29
"...‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:31
Everyone is living some kind of challenge.
Mine today is that mountain of laundry in my laundry room staring me in the face, daring me to wash, dry, fold and put away all of the towels, sheets, blankets, clothes, and other miscellaneous stuff in there!
Seriously, I am blessed to even have a laundry room, with a fully functioning washer and dryer. I don't take this for granted!
I still HATE doing the laundry!
Satan sends me so many distractions, including this computer. I really need to fight the evil influences, and get blessing my family through their laundry!
As silly as that may sound, that is how I look at it!
Whenever I am around people, I try to remember that everyone is fighting some kind of battle. It could be the battle of the laundry, or an addiction, abuse, or a case of very low self-esteem.
Be KINDER than you have to be to EVERYONE you meet!
Imagine, if everyone was KIND to you, while you are in the depths of your battle. Would kindness from others improve your mood? Change your outlook on life?
Kindness can do so much. Sometimes, all it takes is a SMILE to show someone how much God really loves them!
"For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves." 1 Peter 2:15-16
"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4:32
"Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins." 1 Peter 4:8
Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind." 1 Peter 3:8
"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." Ephesians 4:29
"...‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:31
Monday, November 12, 2012
Musical Monday ~ The Lost Get Found
My daughter and I attended the "Girls of Grace" Conference last weekend, and were very blessed to work with Britt Nicole's merchandising team!
Whitney and Dustin are very sweet, and so amazing to work with!
When Britt sang at the conference, she did not perform this song, but I have had it stuck in my mind for a few days. I have been praying for some of my friends who are feeling very lost right now. God KNOWS where you are, and how to lead you out, if you listen and seek his guidance.
"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin." 1 John 1:7
"For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light..." Ephesians 5:8
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Psalm 119:105
Listen to the song "The Lost Get Found" by Britt Nicole here:
Here are the lyrics to the song "The Lost Get Found" by Britt Nicole:
Hello my friend
I remember when you were
So alive with your wide eyes
Then the light that you had in your heart was stolen
Now you say that it ain't worth stayin'
You wanna run but you're hesitatin'
I'm talkin' to me
Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire burn out
'cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
Why don't you rise up now?
Don't be afraid to stand out
That's how the lost get found
The lost get found
So when you get the chance
Are you gonna take it?
There's a really big world at your fingertips
And you know you have the chance to change it
There's a girl on the streets, she's cryin'
There's a man whose faith is dyin'
Love is calling you
Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire burn out
'cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
Why don't you rise up now?
Don't be afraid to stand out
That's how the lost get found
The lost get found
Why do we go with the flow
Why take an easier road?
Why are we playin' it safe?
Love came to show us the way
Love is a chance we should take
I'm movin' out of the gray
Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire burn out
'cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
(Stand out)
Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire burn out
(Stand out)
'cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
Why don't you rise up now?
Don't be afraid to stand out
That's how the lost get found
The lost get found
So when you get the chance
Are you gonna take it?
There's a really big world at your fingertips
And you know you have the chance to change it
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." Ephesians 2:8-9
Whitney and Dustin are very sweet, and so amazing to work with!
When Britt sang at the conference, she did not perform this song, but I have had it stuck in my mind for a few days. I have been praying for some of my friends who are feeling very lost right now. God KNOWS where you are, and how to lead you out, if you listen and seek his guidance.
"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin." 1 John 1:7
"For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light..." Ephesians 5:8
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Psalm 119:105
Listen to the song "The Lost Get Found" by Britt Nicole here:
Here are the lyrics to the song "The Lost Get Found" by Britt Nicole:
Hello my friend
I remember when you were
So alive with your wide eyes
Then the light that you had in your heart was stolen
Now you say that it ain't worth stayin'
You wanna run but you're hesitatin'
I'm talkin' to me
Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire burn out
'cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
Why don't you rise up now?
Don't be afraid to stand out
That's how the lost get found
The lost get found
So when you get the chance
Are you gonna take it?
There's a really big world at your fingertips
And you know you have the chance to change it
There's a girl on the streets, she's cryin'
There's a man whose faith is dyin'
Love is calling you
Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire burn out
'cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
Why don't you rise up now?
Don't be afraid to stand out
That's how the lost get found
The lost get found
Why do we go with the flow
Why take an easier road?
Why are we playin' it safe?
Love came to show us the way
Love is a chance we should take
I'm movin' out of the gray
Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire burn out
'cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
(Stand out)
Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire burn out
(Stand out)
'cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
Why don't you rise up now?
Don't be afraid to stand out
That's how the lost get found
The lost get found
So when you get the chance
Are you gonna take it?
There's a really big world at your fingertips
And you know you have the chance to change it
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." Ephesians 2:8-9
God Bless Our Veterans!
I feel so blessed to live in the "Land of the Free". However, I am well aware of the sacrifice made by our veterans and active duty military to keep my freedom alive and well!
My brother is a Marine. My dad and grandfather were both in the Navy. I am proud to say THANK YOU to them, and all other families who have provided my right to say, "God Bless all of our Veterans".
I pray that they veterans will be blessed by God to know that they are appreciated by those they protect. I also pray for the families who have suffered the ultimate sacrifice with the death of a child, parent, uncle, aunt, grandparent, cousin, or extended family while they were serving US as protectors of our freedom. Amen
"For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives..." Colossians 1:9
My brother is a Marine. My dad and grandfather were both in the Navy. I am proud to say THANK YOU to them, and all other families who have provided my right to say, "God Bless all of our Veterans".
I pray that they veterans will be blessed by God to know that they are appreciated by those they protect. I also pray for the families who have suffered the ultimate sacrifice with the death of a child, parent, uncle, aunt, grandparent, cousin, or extended family while they were serving US as protectors of our freedom. Amen
"For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives..." Colossians 1:9
Thursday, November 8, 2012
"The Heart of Christmas" Review and Giveaway
Rarely does a movie change my perspective in life.
I was given a preview of the heart-wrenching movie, "Heart of Christmas", and it truly changed my entire perspective on my family, and the lives of those around me.
As Christians, we are called to treat others as we would like to be treated.
Respect is not a common occurrence in our society, as we continue on our journey of seeking out the "best things" in life.
In this movie, Candace Cameron Bure plays a mom, who is actively doing what she thinks and feels is the best for her family. She's working from home, and focused on her job, and the money it will bring into their family budget to buy the best money can buy, and save for college.
The tension in the house is reminiscent of what all families go through, when parents are stressed, and kids are seeking attention. I can relate, and am sad to say that my time spent working on my laptop can take away from the oh-so-important FAMILY time that my husband and children need from me!
I cried more than once during this movie. The Christian heart of Dax's mom is amazing and inspiring. Needless to say, I pray that all of us do not ever have to learn what's important by losing a child!
I certainly gained a new perspective on prioritizing the REALLY important things in life when I watched "The Heart of Christmas". Every day matters. Cherishing every moment is really the MOST important thing of all.
I have been offered a copy of "The Heart of Christmas" on DVD to give away to ONE lucky reader!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Here is a little more information about the movie:
The Heart of Christmas tells the story of Austin and Julie Locke, who are devastated to learn that their young son, Dax, has been diagnosed with cancer. With courage, determination and faith, they decide to give Dax one last Christmas – even if it has to be in October. When the community sees the holiday decorations and learns the heartbreaking truth, what happens next is a miraculous outpouring of care and support. The Heart of Christmas will touch your heart and bring home the spirit of the holidays. In stores Tuesday, October 16th.
I was given a preview of the heart-wrenching movie, "Heart of Christmas", and it truly changed my entire perspective on my family, and the lives of those around me.
As Christians, we are called to treat others as we would like to be treated.
Respect is not a common occurrence in our society, as we continue on our journey of seeking out the "best things" in life.
In this movie, Candace Cameron Bure plays a mom, who is actively doing what she thinks and feels is the best for her family. She's working from home, and focused on her job, and the money it will bring into their family budget to buy the best money can buy, and save for college.
The tension in the house is reminiscent of what all families go through, when parents are stressed, and kids are seeking attention. I can relate, and am sad to say that my time spent working on my laptop can take away from the oh-so-important FAMILY time that my husband and children need from me!
I cried more than once during this movie. The Christian heart of Dax's mom is amazing and inspiring. Needless to say, I pray that all of us do not ever have to learn what's important by losing a child!
I certainly gained a new perspective on prioritizing the REALLY important things in life when I watched "The Heart of Christmas". Every day matters. Cherishing every moment is really the MOST important thing of all.
I have been offered a copy of "The Heart of Christmas" on DVD to give away to ONE lucky reader!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Here is a little more information about the movie:
The Heart of Christmas tells the story of Austin and Julie Locke, who are devastated to learn that their young son, Dax, has been diagnosed with cancer. With courage, determination and faith, they decide to give Dax one last Christmas – even if it has to be in October. When the community sees the holiday decorations and learns the heartbreaking truth, what happens next is a miraculous outpouring of care and support. The Heart of Christmas will touch your heart and bring home the spirit of the holidays. In stores Tuesday, October 16th.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Wordless Wednesday
"Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words; the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you." Ephesians 4:29
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Thankful Thursday ~ Babies
I miss my babies.
They are growing into amazing children, but I really, truly miss them being babies.
When my middle child had strep throat a couple of weeks ago, all he wanted to do was snuggle with me, like he did when he was a baby!
I LOVED IT! I dropped all of the chores on my list, and just snuggled with him! Now, he's over 4' tall, and in Kindergarten, but I didn't care! He is still my baby.
My youngest is very adamant that he is NOT a baby - but he will always be my baby.
My baby girl will ALWAYS be my little princess. She's an intelligent, beauitful, talented 8 years old already, but she'll always be my baby.
I am so thankful for my babies today!
They have given me a totally new perspective on life.
My own life, the lives of those I love, and especially my own mother. I could never have imagined the love I experience every day that I am so thankful for my own children.
God bless the babies, and their mommies, every day! Help us mommies to remember how sweet and loving our babies were before they turned into the children they are today! Amen
They are growing into amazing children, but I really, truly miss them being babies.
When my middle child had strep throat a couple of weeks ago, all he wanted to do was snuggle with me, like he did when he was a baby!
I LOVED IT! I dropped all of the chores on my list, and just snuggled with him! Now, he's over 4' tall, and in Kindergarten, but I didn't care! He is still my baby.
My youngest is very adamant that he is NOT a baby - but he will always be my baby.
My baby girl will ALWAYS be my little princess. She's an intelligent, beauitful, talented 8 years old already, but she'll always be my baby.
I am so thankful for my babies today!
They have given me a totally new perspective on life.
My own life, the lives of those I love, and especially my own mother. I could never have imagined the love I experience every day that I am so thankful for my own children.
God bless the babies, and their mommies, every day! Help us mommies to remember how sweet and loving our babies were before they turned into the children they are today! Amen
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