along for the ride

Old Made New

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Wed, 30 May 2012 11:51:00 +0000

*Originally shared on Beautifully Rooted*

I saw it sticking out of a dumpster and yelled "trash," our code word for "hey, there's something fabulous sticking out of that dumpster." He pulled over and I skipped towards it, giddy at my find.

What I pulled out was an old, chippy front of something. Maybe an old pantry or a curio cabinet. We pulled the pieces and parts away that were leftover from the dismantling of it all, and put it in the car.

It was perfect!

I asked my hubby to help me with the project, and then sheepishly stepped aside while he did ~~most~~ all of the work.

Each pocket, minus one, held a pane of glass. He put on his work gloves and carefully removed each one.

From there he cut rectangles out of two types of wire mesh- ones with little holes for my earrings, ones with big holes to hang my necklaces and bracelets.

He clipped the corners and folded the mesh in a little so he could staple it to the frame.

He drilled two holes at the bottom for chunky dowel rods so my window could stand.

Throughout his work, he kept asking me "are you sure you don't want to paint it?"

"Never, it is absolutely perfect."

"The chippy parts are my favorite."

And how many times did people drive past that dumpster just seeing trash, when I saw "trash!" and an opportunity to give something new life and new purpose?

Sound familiar?

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" 2 Corinthians 5:17

I'm so glad I serve a God who likes my chippy parts the best, too. Who sees something in me- an opportunity to create anew.

I often think of this verse and this metaphor when I'm refinishing, refurbishing, recycling, and upcycling. I find comfort in knowing I've been pulled out, saved, and made new, with each day, each morning, and each breathe.

18 Weeks

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Tue, 29 May 2012 13:00:00 +0000

I sure love these belly shots! My friends keep telling me that I'm glowing. And you know what? I think I am! I feel more beautiful every day, carrying this little one around with me.

I also think people are nicer to you when you're pregnant. Like strangers and people at the store. Walking down the street, I get lots of smiles from people passing by. But I think I also smile when I pass a pregnant woman. I'm always just so excited for her and her growing family.

Kyle and I were talking in the car last night (after we pulled out the Dairy Queen parking lot, our second trip in two days). I told him that I don't think I've ever been more ready than I am to be a mom. I'm so ready. Now it's not that I'm ready to change diapers or figure out breast feeding or give up sleeping late (no, you slept in until 11am today!). But I am so, so ready to be a mom to this little guy or gal. This little one that's half of me and half of the love-of-my-life. What a blessing we have been given-- to share the gobs and gobs of love we have with a little person made of the things we're made of.

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17

God has given us a gift and I hope in all the years that I get to spend with my family, I never, ever forget that. Not for one second. Not when this little one tries on all of mommy's makeup, or gets into the litter box, or steals the opals out of his mommy's earrings (no I don't have opal earrings, but Kyle did this when he was little-- he was playing pirates and he pried those opals right out because they were his treasure).

Thank you, Father, for this perfect, perfect gift.

***

Happy 18 weeks little one. I'm dying to know if you're a little mister or miss. Just a few more weeks until we find out!

We decided on a nursery color for you, and I hope you like it. It's mommy's favorite color and it will be warm and sunny and perfect for us to spend lots of time together. Don't worry, daddy will be there too!

You know what I can't wait for, little one? To experience all of your "firsts." I don't really mean your first steps or your first words, although that will be exciting too.

I mean the other kind of firsts. The first time you experience the things that mommy and daddy have long taken for granted. Like the first time you see a bird fly or a butterfly lands on your fingers. The first time you blow bubbles and see your little reflection in them as they flutter about. The first time you taste ice cream (mommy's favorite food right now!). Or the first time you feel the wind in your hair as you learn to pump up and down on a swing.

There are so many things I can't wait for you to do. We're going go to swimming, and we'll pick flowers, and we'll play music in the kitchen with pots and pans. We'll go apple picking and eat them right off the trees. We'll get you your first baseball glove and teach you how to throw a ball in the backyard. We'll take you horseback riding because daddy's been promising to take mommy for a long time. Now we can go with you!

And we'll dance! We'll dance to every Hootie and the Blowfish song ever made because that's mommy's favorite band.

Gosh, there's such a big world out there Baby D and I can't wait to welcome you to it. There are so many things that me and your daddy can't wait to experience with you. I hope you're ready!

Lifting Our Voices in Prayer

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Mon, 28 May 2012 17:20:00 +0000

We pray for the men and women serving our country, past and present. We pray for their families, Lord. May your peace be upon them today and every day.

Lindsay: Our apartment has bed bugs! Pray for a speedy and less stressful de-bugging.

What other prayers do you have? Email me and I will post them throughout the day.

Friday Favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Fri, 25 May 2012 13:00:00 +0000

This post on grace-based parenting from Redeeming the Days on Out of Alabaster.

Diving into the word with #shereads truth. You can learn more about the bible study here or follow on twitter here.

Printable paper party flags and photo props from Yellow Heart Art.

The minty necklace. A forever favorite from Pretties by Meg.

And a bit of self promotion, by favorite rosette pendant necklaces are back in the shop! Use the code "just rosy" for 15% off this weekend.

What have been your favorite things this week?

***

The winner of the Dream Big giveaway is Tara. Emailing you!

Oatmeal Cream Pies

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Thu, 24 May 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Do you want to be a hit at your next {insert anyplace where people gather}?

Bring 'em these.

Inspired by the Pioneer Woman.
Cookie recipe found here.

Two oatmeal cookies held together by a big dollap of marshmallow fluff.

Our friends couldn't believe their eyes. Neither could I. I ate three just to make sure I wasn't dreaming them up.

Beautifully Rooted

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Wed, 23 May 2012 14:17:00 +0000

I'm writing at Beautifully Rooted this morning about what we do with our down time.

source

I hope you'll join me!

17 Weeks

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Tue, 22 May 2012 13:00:00 +0000

I'm feeling big this week. I know that I will get so much bigger, but I still feel rather large. I had to stop and take a breather twice on our walk this evening. Out of shape momma!

As my belly gets bigger, the reality of all this sets in even more. I sat down and peeked at Target.com [we should probably think about registering, right?]. I looked at two bathtubs and a highchair and just about had a panic attack-- it was too much for me to handle right now. We will need to mentally prepare a bit before they hand us one of those price guns.

I'm trying really hard to not get overwhelmed or overloaded with information. I've stopped Googling things and no longer fall into reading comment after comment detailing women's pregnancies. Each woman and each pregnancy is so different. Each ache and pain is different. Each feeling of joy and stress and anxious waiting is different. I gave worrying about this pregnancy to God. I'm giving him the remaining need to compare as well.

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7

And I couldn't be more grateful that he takes those things from me every single time. This little baby and I can't do it on our own. Nor would we want to.

***

Hi little one. It's me again. Laura. But you're going to call me mom, or mommy, or momma. Your daddy sometimes calls me momma-- it's fun thinking about having a new name! How I cherish the day I got a new last name. I can't wait to get this new name!

This week marks the beginning of our 5th month together. Can you believe it? What a wonderful few months it's been, just me and you. It's starting to get warm as summer is almost here. You'll keep growing and growing and when you're born, it will be my absolute favorite season-- fall! You will be my little pumpkin.

Guess what? I think I felt you move. The doctor said I won't be able to feel you moving for quite a few weeks, but between you and me, I totally felt you moving in there. It wasn't gas or my tummy turning. It was you kicking your little feet or waving your little hands. It felt like little butterflies flying through.

I'm so excited for when your daddy can put his hands on my belly and feel you moving around. He's going to love it! Lots of times he puts his lips to my belly and whispers you things. He'll ask how your day is and then put his ear to my belly to hear your answer. He's silly like that. Just wait until you meet him! You two will be laughing together all day long!

When we first started dating, your daddy would tell me that he loved me big and little. Well I love you big and little, too. I love you as big as all the oceans and the mountains and the sky with all its stars. I love you as little as fireflies and Jupiter's whiskers and the shiny diamonds in my wedding ring. And I love you everything in between.

Lifting Our Voices in Prayer

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Mon, 21 May 2012 17:00:00 +0000

We bring you these prayers Lord. Prayers spoken out loud and prayers in our hearts.

Red: My son, his wife and two beautiful boys have come into some hard times. They will be moving in with us in a couple of weeks. We as parents love them all so much . It's not just us, we have another son and a 13 year old grandson already with us. I just need strength and enough patience to be up for this task upon us. I am also having tough times at my job and that is so stressful already. I want to welcome them with open arms and b the mother I should I just feel I need some extra help.

Colleen: I have two pretty big ones this week, about 6 weeks ago I flipped my car, I have a TBI and am having trouble healing my brain, the injury has also caused debilitating migraine headaches, I know God can and will perform miracles, so I am praying for a healing miracle!

The other one is I just ended a serious relationship, and this seems trivial, but my heart is so broken, I really thought that this was the guy I was going to marry, I struggle with wondering if God really has someone out there for me, so I want to be content in my singleness.

Me: My husband leaves for a job interview on Tuesday. It's a good job, perfect for him, perfect for our growing family. Just pray that he will be confident in his abilities, able to articulate his skills, and satisfied with a job well done when he returns.

Featured Sponsor: Debonair Bandit

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Mon, 21 May 2012 13:51:00 +0000

So excited to introduce you to Mandi from Debonair Bandit! She has a sweet tutorial to share. I hope you'll check out her blog and connect with her through twitter.

***

Hello Lovely readers of Along for the Ride! I am Mandi and I blog over at {Debonair Bandit}. I am a stay at home momma too two little girls {Chloe, 2 and Carli 8 months}. I have a wonderful husband whom I've shared my life with for almost 7 years. I am a full time student working on my accounting degree, and I love love creating and crafts. I am also CHEAP. Yes, I said it. If I love something, I will immediately try to figure out how I can make it myself, so I don't have to spend so much money to buy it else where. Today I will be sharing a tutorial for DIY bakers twine. I am opeing my own etsy shop {I hope you will visit Here when I open June 1st}, and I was thinking about how I was going to wrap my products before sending them out . Now I am obsessed with bakers twine, but spending $6 for so little twine, I decided that I could make my own. Here's how I did that.

{DIY Bakers Twine}

What you will need:

Strong string

Permanent markers in many colors

Ruler

{What you will need}

{First wrap the amount of string you want around the ruler}

{Then start coloring in stripes across the string on both sides of ruler}

{Here is a close up}

{This is the end result. Not bad right?}

Thank you so much dear Laura for having me here today on your amazing blog. I love the words you write. You are so sweet and you inspire me quite often. To all of you lovely readers, I hope you come on over to my blog {Here} and visit. I love to make new friends.

Praying for Each Other

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Sun, 20 May 2012 20:43:00 +0000

We can all use prayer. How can we pray for you??
Feel free to email me your prayer requests or praises to iamalongfortheride@gmail.com. Each Monday I will post them and we will spend the week lifting our voices in prayer.I'd love for you to be part of this community!

Journaling the Journey

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Sun, 20 May 2012 02:30:00 +0000

1. What is something you've lost or given away that can never be replaced?2. What is something you could never give away?3. What is one thing nobody knows about you because nobody has ever asked?4. What song most accurately describes where you are right now in your life?5. What worship song could you listen to on repeat?6. Describe a time you felt alone.7. Describe a time where you felt complete satisfied.[prompts inspired by this]
***
Some ways to use this week's journal prompts:Use each prompt in order (or mix them up) and journal every day of the week.Use them during your reflective/prayer timeUse them in conversation with your spouse or friendsSave them for when you need a bit of journal/blog inspiration
I will continue to be as creative as I can, but I need some help! Feel free to email me your prompts. I will include a link back to your blog.

Friday Favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Fri, 18 May 2012 13:42:00 +0000

Good Morning Pillows from Rustic Living

The new line of stretch bracelets from Mama's Nest Designs

[Calypso bracelet]

Shey's series of 31 tutorials in May. My favorite has been the spray painted doily canvas.

Royal Daughter Designs' 30 days of 30 giveaways!

Arc Bar Necklace by The Altered Chain

*dear hubby, add it to the Christmas list*

And this picture of me and Baby D.

Happy Friday everyone!

Dream Big [Review and Giveaway]

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Thu, 17 May 2012 13:35:00 +0000

I have been drawn to Heather Boersma and her blog for a long time-- her story, her commitment to Christ, and because Heather is so much of what I'm not-- a dreamer.

I long to be, but just don't know how. It's not my default. Where do I even begin when asking the Lord to help me begin dreaming about the life he has planned for me?

I was so honored when Heather Boersma asked me to read and review her book, Dream Big: 30 Days to a Life Beyond All You Could Ask or Imagine. I may not be a dreamer, yet, but a table of contents that has a spirit-filled plan for each day has "me" written all over it.

Dream Big reads like a devotional, and each day Heather opens with a passage that asks readers to discover scripture and tangible instructions to, as Heather writes, "make our dreams a reality." There are also sections to write down your own reflections as well as opportunities to write and reflect with the Lord. I am so passionate about time spent journaling and love that Heather asks readers to commit to each of these sections as a spiritual routine throughout the 30 days.

I fell in love with Heather's section about community. As my husband and I prepare for a potential move this summer, finding a new community [and quickly] is going to be so important, especially as we watch our little family grow by one this October. Heather outlines God's plan for our lives, lives lived out with others, and reinforces the importance of building one another up. She writes, "Our gifts work best when they are used within community setting in cooperation with the gifts of those around us. We are designed to be one piece of the puzzle, not the whole picture. Think about how your gifts can be used to build up the community God has place you in."

I've only just begun my journey through Heather's book and my journey to becoming more of a spirit-filled dreamer, and I can't wait to see what I discover about the Lord and about myself.

Connect with Heather and be inspired by her story!
blog | Twitter | Facebook | bloglovin'

You can purchase Dream Big here. Heather's offering 20% off with the code HEATHER.

And she is generously giving away one copy of her book!

To enter to win, follow Heather through her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Bloglovin'. Leave a comment for each.

For two extra entires, Tweet about the giveaway [please leave two sepearte comments so you can be counted twice].

***

... more about Dream Big.

A Winner and A Prayer Request

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Thu, 17 May 2012 02:03:00 +0000

A special prayer request for the evening.

Kathleen: I am having surgery on Friday (May 18) to have a 2cc kidney stone removed. They have to insert a guide wire Thursday morning. Please pray that the Doctor gets all of the stone out so I don't have to actually pass any pieces, for a speedy recovery (I only have 1 week off of work), and for no complications.

Please pray friends!

Exodus 14:14 print from Naptime Diaries

***

The winner of the Diana Meredith Designs giveaway is Megs! I'm emailing you right now.

16 Weeks

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Tue, 15 May 2012 13:15:00 +0000

The weeks are flying!

But I still wake up every morning with a big smile on my face thinking about this baby- and feeling more beautiful than ever with this growing belly!

Continuing to feel great, but I've been battling a cold/allergies this weekend. Not being able to breathe isn't much fun when there's something else relying on you to fill their bodies with oxygen.

The books say that frequent urination will slow down in the second trimester. Well it's in overdrive here! I get up from peeing and already have to pee again!

I'm sitting on the couch after a long day at work- the cat snuggled next to me. I wonder how she's going to adjust to a new brother or sister. I hope she loves him/her. I hope she acts like this. Speaking of peeing, I hope Jupiter doesn't try to pee on the baby. I've heard of that, you know.

Continuing to pray for peace this week--and every week. Peace to know that Baby D is healthy and safe and just as God intends. We are the perfect parents for this perfect little boy or girl. Although I might not realize it yet, He knows it for sure.

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Pslam 139: 13-14

He knows my baby inside and out. He knows my heart as a mother before it is even revealed. He knows us and has given me the absolute perfect gift.

***

Guess what happened his weekend little one? Your dad graduated! Yup, he's a master now. And a real live librarian!

Here's a picture of the three of us. Doesn't daddy look so smart in his cap and gown?

You're going to grow up big and maybe you'll even go to college. You can go to a college or university, or a technical school, or culinary school. You could be a doctor, or a musician, or a mechanic. You might work outside the home, or you might work in the home. You might go abroad. Or maybe you'll stay close to us.

We love you and will support your dreams wherever they take you!

Oh and baby D, I can't wait to hear all about your dreams. I can't wait to hear what you want to be when you grow up. And about the things you love to do. And the places you want to see.

And there sure is so much to see. Your daddy and I can't wait to be there with you, dreaming and scheming and planning for your big, bright future.

Giving into Grace

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Tue, 15 May 2012 01:23:00 +0000

source

I'm talking about grace over at Sashes to the Merchants right now!

I needed grace today. "How do you need to give into grace this week? Where in your life do you need a bit of allowance to not be perfect, but to be perfected in Him?"

Friday Favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Fri, 11 May 2012 02:46:00 +0000

I will make sure to share some of my actual favorite things next week, but tonight I only have two favorite things. A big cup of tea and cookie dough eaten right out of the bowl. Don't worry, it's safe to eat. I followed this recipe from the Cupcake Project.

Now when I say I followed the recipe, I mean I very loosely followed the recipe.

I barely had enough flour. I only had a 3/4 measuring cup to work with. Didn't have enough butter and boiled over most of what I did have in the microwave. Used the very last drop of the vanilla.

It was too dry (due to my lack of sufficient ingredients) so I added more milk until it made it too runny. Then added more flour.

All in all edible. Satisfying. Currently being consumed on the couch with a big spoon.

I haven't had much chance to read any blogs this week. I'd love it if you shared your favorite posts from the week so I can get caught up!

Giveaway: Diana Meredith Designs

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Thu, 10 May 2012 16:45:00 +0000

Welcome Diana from Diana Meredith Designs! She is hosting her first-every giveaway here and I am so honored!

You will love the items in her shop. Absolutley beautiful and beautifull handcrafted.

Diana's shop features crocheted coasters, coffee/tea cozies, hats, and headbands.

My favorite!

Diana is offering one winner a $15 shop credit to Diana Meredith Designs. Plus everyone wins by using the code RIDE20 for 20% off.

Want to win?

Visit Diana's shop and leave me comment with your favorite item.
For extra entries, say hi to Diana over at her blog. You can also tweet and share on facebook for extra entries.

Giveaway will end next Wednesday, May 16.

***

The winner of the 1581 Designs giveaway (as selected by random.org) is Robin. I'll be emailing you soon!

Along for the Ride Sponsorship Program

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Thu, 10 May 2012 02:23:00 +0000

I've gone back and forth and back again when deciding to finally offer paid advertising spots on my blog. It's not a decision I came to lightly and it's not a program that I will take lightly either.

I've been along for the ride for a little over 2 years and I've primarily kept my sponsorship opportunities to swapping ads and I have never asked for money in return for my support. But as my husband and I are in a season of transition (welcoming a baby in October and making plans for me to stay at home), I am searching out ways to use this blog to bless our family.

I understand that so many of you are in this position as well and I want you to know that, in partnering with me, I will take your financial support seriously and work to promote your talents the best way I can.

I feel called to support other women, promote beautiful blogs and handmade shops, provide encouragement, and introduce my readers to new things.

I would love to partner with you and I promise to work my tail off in promoting your beautiful blogs and shops. Just like mine, so much of your heart and soul is poured into them. I will treat them with the care that you do.
Interested in coming along for the ride with me in a whole new way?

I offer two sizes of advertisements. Medium ads are available starting in June. The next large ad is available to reserve for August (you can reserve in advance for this one).

Large Ad: $50 per month
- 200x200 static button
- only one large ad per month (reservable in advance)
- half-hour Skype session/phone call so I can best know how to promote you that month
- solo featured welcome post
- solo giveaway during the month
- social media shares and re-tweets
- next large ad available in September

Medium Ad: $30 per month ($75 for three months)
- 200x100 static button
- featured group welcome post
- access to monthly group sponsor giveaway
- social media shares and re-tweets

Some info about me:
Along for the Ride is a personal lifestyle blog that focuses on living life purposefully and centered on Christ. Each week my readers and I journal together in my "journaling the journey series," we pray for each other, we share inspiration, and connect over real-life struggles and the Lord that triumphantly saves.

Blog statistics (as of May 2012):

- 1700+ GFC followers

- 1900+ Google reader subscribers

- 17000+ page views last month

- 850+ Twitter followers

- 700+ Facebook fans

Interested? Email me at iamalongfortheride[at]gmail[.]com

15 Weeks

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Tue, 08 May 2012 14:08:00 +0000

Sharing some photos from a weekend wedding and celebrating one more week with my little one.

And although you can barely see a bump (looks more like one-too-many cheeseburgers), I can see it and feel it and I get giddy when I catch my reflection in the mirror.

Even though the peace of last week remains, I still find myself worrying. We are in a huge season of transition right now. A part of me wishes that I could look a few months ahead and see a snapshot of our life. It doesn't have to show too many details. It could be blurry and everything. But just to know that we are safe, in a home, provided for.

But life doesn't give us those snapshots I'm afraid. Our trust is in the Lord-- we have always been and will always be provided for. I am putting my faith in that.

"This is how we know that we love the children of God; by loving God and carrying out his commands." 1 John 5:2

I pray that I can be an example of faith to my child. I will be transparent with my struggles, my sin, my worry and anxiety. But hopefully I can also be an example of triumph. Or rather, how the Lord triumphantly saves.

I've still feeling pretty good. Appetitie is a bit funny again, though. Dinner is just not a fun meal anymore. Meat? No way. Veggies? Eww. Pasta or rice? Ok. Ice cream? Two helpings please.

We went to the doctor and heard the tiny heartbeat again. Beautiful music is what that is. I had all my questions written down for my doctor and got them answered, but it's funny that as soon as we head back to the car I have a million more. I am able to email my doctor, but I try to space them out as to not look too crazy.

Crazy in love with this baby that is.

***

Happy 15 weeks little one. You're the size of an apple now, and even though we've never formally met, you're the absolute apple of my eye. You are growing longer this week and you can move all your little limbs. I'm counting down the days until I can feel you kick and move around in my belly.

You're daddy and I can't wait to meet you. Your daddy is excited that you will love his beard and cry at all the other daddies without beards (some of the little ones at our small group don't like daddy's beard because their daddies don't have beards. I think the best daddies have beards).

We're so excited to teach you things. The two of us can paint together and be creative. And did you know that your daddy knows all the different types of leaves on all the trees? He will teach you, too.

We'll teach you how to ride a bike and to not be afraid of bees like I am. And we'll do those things that we always said we should do but never did, like camping, and taking road trips, and going on more picnics. I guess we just wanted to do them with you.

We'll be serious sometimes. But mostly we'll probably be silly. Silly in love with you!

Lifting Up Our Voices In Prayer

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Mon, 07 May 2012 16:43:00 +0000

Father please here these prayers. Provide patience, healing, and peace to understand and trust your will.

***

Cielo: I would like to ask for you to include me in prayer, I am planning for a career transition. Currently, I am under employed. After college and passing the board examination, I got a job far from my credentials. Please pray that I land a job that will not hinder my service towards God. God-glorifying and at the same time with fair compensation as I would like to support a cousin who is going to college and the expansion of our church (we are going to almost 500 in attendance every Sunday, to God be all the glory)-we need a bigger place of worship and at the same time support our ministries especially the Basketball ministry, as most of our converts are fruits of this ministry. We are planning for a gymnasium that can be converted to a worship place(convertible).

Elise: Could you pray this week for contentment? And pray for peace as I am job-hunting.

Gail: My brother in law begins treatment for leukemia on Wednesday. He Loves and Lives for Gods will please lift all involved up to God in prayer

Featured Ad: Sand and Starfish

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Mon, 07 May 2012 13:18:00 +0000

I am so excited for you to meet Stephanie from Sand and Starfish. Yes her blog and shop are beautiful, but what I love most about Stephanie is her heart for the Lord!

***

When I wake up in the morning, there are several things that usually run through my mind... is the kiddo hungry, do the dogs need to go out, are there orders waiting to be packaged, do I really feel like doing another load of laundry today? But the one thought that I love, that helps me focus all day long, the one thought that really gets me back to where I need to be is this:

This verse is so powerful. Do it all, every thing no matter how big or small, do it for Him. Package those orders with love because He gave me that love for what I creative. Feed that kiddo something nutritious because He loves her just as much as I do. Fold those clothes while singing, "This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!" because He truly is the one who provided for me and my family. Do it all...

And it's not easy. Oh no ma'am it's not. There are days when people are just down right rude, or the dogs have dug yet another hole to who knows where in the yard, or I'm just so exhausted that I don't even want to move. But on those days, He gives strength. You can always choose to be positive and push through.

I had the amazing experience of getting baptized last year. I was 28. It took me 28 years but it was all in His time. It opened my eyes to the life I had lived and the life that He had truly destined for me to have. I was able to forgive. I was able to create. I was able to grow. But it was also a really difficult thing to do. My blog, my shop, my safe havens... I closed them down. It just wasn't right to pour my heart into something that wasn't what He intended me to do. The Lord has always been such a big part of my life but for some reason, I didn't let him be a part of those. So I closed the shop and invited Him to take His place in it all and then I waited. I waited for His direction. When I reopened, I sold nothing that was in the shop before. People requested old items... and as easy as it would have been to give in, it wasn't what I felt was right.

So I took the old, and made something new and it felt wonderful! I was making and creating things I didn't plan on making, with things I didn't plan on using. The love that I have for the things I do create is so passionate and my heart just overflows with joy for them. And I honestly believe that it's because I do them for His glory.

If you can take anything away from this, please, let it be that when life is lived with your thoughts and actions for God, amazing wonderful crazy things will happen.

Let's connect and be friends!! I blog here, and I'm on twitter and facebook as well! I'd love to connect with you, even if it is just through a screen! Thank you so much Laura for allowing me to open up and share a little bit of what makes me, and Sand & Starfish, special!

Journaling the Journey

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Sun, 06 May 2012 20:36:00 +0000

Some ways to use them:Use each prompt in order (or mix them up) and journal every day of the week.Use them during your reflective/prayer timeUse them in conversation with your spouse or friendsSave them for when you need a bit of journal/blog inspiration
1. What is your favorite meal to cook and why?2. What is your favorite meal to eat and why?3. Describe a time you had to be brave. What did you learn about yourself?4. Describe the bravest person you know.5. Describe your favorite character from a book or movie. What qualities do you like so much?6. If you have siblings, what is it like? If you're an old child, what is that like? 7. Reflect on the word Sabbath. What does if mean and how can you infuse that definition into your Sunday routine?[prompts inspired by this]
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Some ways to use this week's journal prompts:Use each prompt in order (or mix them up) and journal every day of the week.Use them during your reflective/prayer timeUse them in conversation with your spouse or friendsSave them for when you need a bit of journal/blog inspiration
I will continue to be as creative as I can, but I need some help! Feel free to email me your prompts. I will include a link back to your blog.

Praying for Each Other

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Sat, 05 May 2012 03:27:00 +0000

Maybe you don't think this is for you. That I'm speaking to someone else.
Nope, I'm looking right at you, and I want to lift you up this week!
Feel free to email me your prayer requests or praises to iamalongfortheride@gmail.com. Each Monday I will post them and we will spend the week lifting our voices in prayer.I'd love for you to be part of this community!

Friday Favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Fri, 04 May 2012 14:30:00 +0000

Kyla Roma's article, "Get Your Blog Love Back." Great for beating that blogger burnout!

You Have Our Hearts necklace from Jessica N Designs

This gorgeous hutch re-do from Bits of Splendor.

Giving Up On Good talking about the fact that we can't do it all, and how that's ok!

See posts from Naptime Diaries and The Tiny Twig.

My new favorite blog, Dear Family!

DIY Diva Fashion Party every Thursday at Mine for the Making.

What are you loving this week? I'd love tos see!