Listening to His Voice

My Favorite Books of 2011

2012-01-03T13:08:00.000-06:00

Reading is my one habit that will never die. I wish I had the same enthusiasm for other things the way I have for my books. My happiest 'me' time is when I am alone in my room, reading, and my home is completely silent.

I own may too many books. A lot of them are still on my book shelf waiting to be read.

However, I am grateful for the ones I got to read and made an impact on my life. Now that 2011 has come to a close, I would like to share with you my favorite books of the past year.

Radical: Taking Back Your Faith From The American Dream

David Platt

"We do not have time to waste our lives living out a Christian spin on the American Dream."

A passionate perspective on Christianity in America and the desperation to bring back the fire of knowing, sharing, and living out the Gospel. Now that I live in the United States, I know first-hand how real the problem is. First heard about this book in a casual conversation with a pastor (that we just met at that moment) while waiting at a movie theater in Dallas, TX. Read the book. Heard the audio version. Both excellent ways of learning.

Forgotten God: Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit

Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski

"It is true that God may have called you to be exactly where you are. But, it is absolutely vital to grasp that he didn't call you there so you could settle in and live your life in comfort and superficial peace."

Sermons, books, podcasts have a plethora of material on the nature of God as our Father and Jesus Christ. God as the Holy Spirit seems to be the least popular and perhaps the most intimidating. Chan has always been one of my favorite teachers. I learn best from his demeanor and he did a great job bringing the Holy Spirit to life. It truly is a tragedy to not depend on its power and its presence in our lives. Read the book and heard the audio as well.

Kisses from Katie: A Story of Relentless Love and Redemption

Katie Davis with Beth Clark

"God reminded me how beautiful we all are to Him, after all, we are created in His own image, and He looks at me, at you, in all our sweat and dirt and brokenness, and says, "I choose you. You are beautiful."

I was not planning to reading this book until I heard that Davis was class president and homecoming queen from Ravenwood High School and decided to live in Uganda after high school graduation and start an orphanage there. Ravenwood is one of the high schools we are trying to reach out to in Franklin, TN and its students has been in many of my prayers this past year. I also have a deep love for orphans ever since I can remember. When I think of having children and starting a family, the immediate response of my heart is always to follow God's Biblical mandate of caring for those children who don't have parents. I love what the author is doing in obedience to God. At the age of 22, she is now the adoptive mother of 13 children. An inspiring book to start doing something to care for the orphans, the widows, the hungry, the neglected, the forgotten.

Made to Crave: Satisfying Your Deepest Desire With God, Not Food

Lysa Terkeurst

"Getting healthy isn't just about losing weight. It's not limited to adjusting our diet and hoping for good physical results. It's about recalibrating our souls so that we want to change -- spiritually, physically, and mentally."

I consider this book as a source of my breakthrough in terms of health and fitness. I am a work in progress (and I mean, a lot of work) but the lessons I have learned led me to a path of caring a lot less about what I eat and yearning more for my God -- the only One who can fill my deepest desires. Do you get cranky when you are hungry? I used to be like that. I consider it nothing short of a miracle that I am not like that today. I still have to make huge improvements in a lot of areas but I am so grateful how my faith was strengthened during this process of maintaining a healthy, not-obsessed-with-food lifestyle.

W IKICHURCH: Making Discipleship Engaging, Empowering, & Viral

Steve Murrell

"Discipleship, in our understanding, is not a mentoring program to help encourage Christians to become better Christians. The discipleship process starts with introducing nonbelievers to the gospel and person of Jesus Christ."

A book authored by the pastor of my home church in Franklin, TN. He was also the senior pastor of my church in the Philippines. I am where I am today because when I was living for myself in 2003, someone took the time to introduce Jesus Christ and the Gospel to me. I continued to grow in my relationship with Jesus with the help of small groups I were a part of and because many women passionately taught me to follow Him. That passion made me want to do the same for people who do not know Christ. Church is not a Sunday thing for me. Every single day, I love to live for Jesus. I am grateful that I belong to a discipleship-based church. The book tells the story of a 1984 missions trip to the Philippines turned into a church plant that made many (including myself) disciples and continues to make more. Truly an excellent book on church growth and what it truly means to win the lost.

The Devil in Pew Number Seven: A True Story

Rebecca Nichols Alonzo with Bob DeMoss

"God is still God when things don't make sense. God hasn't made a mistake yet, so He can be trusted even when my circumstances suggest otherwise."

One of the most challenging, most convicting Bible passages of all time (at least for me) is Matthew 5:38-48. Jesus asked for what seems impossible. He asks us to pour out love specifically to people who has done nothing but cause harm and pain to us. Phrases like 'eye for eye' and 'tooth for tooth' were explained by Jesus how those principles miss the whole point of what being a believer is all about. This book is a stirring story of love and forgiveness for enemies -- especially if that enemy killed your parents. Alonzo lived out Matthew 5 in the purest way. If forgiveness is something you struggle with, I am certain that this book is going to change your perspective.

The Invisible War: What Every Believer Needs to Know About Satan, Demons, and Spiritual Warfare

Chip Ingram

"Intercessory prayer is our most powerful and strategic corporate weapon in spiritual warfare."

The title sounds intimidating and dark. I promise you that when I read this book, it was the complete opposite. It left me empowered and confident of God's power in me. The enemy of our souls is defeated. We are in a lifelong spiritual battle whether we like it or not. Oppression is a reality. It is wise to completely understand it and know what we are in the middle of.

Freedom From Performing: Grace In An Applause-Driven World

Becky Harling

"Dear performer, God wants to heal your shame. You do not have to hide your sins committed against you. Bring them to the feet of the Grace Giver. He will not condemn you. He will forgive you and heal you. He invites you to come out of hiding and stand in the light of His grace, where you are fully known. He invites you to take off the dirty clothes of shame and receive the clean robe of His righteousness."

Hands down my favorite Bible study this year. Enriching. Liberating. Perfect for me who grew up in a performance-driven school that put so much emphasis on excellent grades and good works. It's amazing how that kind of academic training leaves a person unfamiliar with grace. Undoing that mindset was accomplished with a lot of help from Harling's insights. I plan to re-visit it again this year.

Pawnee: The Greatest Town in America

Leslie Knope

"We're called the Pawnee Goddesses and we're freakin' awesome"

A fictitious book written by a fictitious author based on the best-written (in my opinion) comedy on television today. A must-have for any Parks and Recreation fan. Your tummy will hurt in laughter, I promise you.

What I Wore: Four Seasons, One Closet, Endless Recipes for Personal Style

Jessica Quirk

"I'm Jessica Quirk and I've been taking my daily outfit pictures (almost) everyday since May 2007. This isn't a posed photo shoot, what you see is what I really wear on a daily basis!"

I have been following her blog for quite some time now and I am happy that it eventually birthed a book on personal style.

Free Agent Nation: The Future of Working for Yourself

Daniel H. Pink

"Job diversity is essential because 'job security' has evaporated."

I have made a few steps of working independently. Most of these steps were based on my own limited knowledge of survival skills in the world of work. This book is helping me pave the way to make more wise steps in that direction. I may have read through the whole book but it continues to be a reference material as I make new steps in my non-corporate career.

How about you?

What are the favorite books you have read in 2011?

One Word 2012: GENEROSITY

2012-01-01T13:20:00.000-06:00

If you are curious, visit this website.

It says:

One word can change everything.

Forget New Year’s Resolutions. Scrap the long list of goals that you won’t remember three weeks from now anyway. Choose just one word.

One word that sums up who you want to be or how you want to live or what you want to achieve by the end of 2012.

One word that you can focus on every day, all year long.

It will take hard work, and will require intentionality and commitment. But if you let it, your word will shape you and your year. It will guide your decisions and help you grow.

Discover the big impact one word can make.

One word.

365 days.

A changed life.

When the last week of December 2011 was unfolding, I searched. Searched my heart. Looked for the voice for my Father. I needed to make sense of the toughest year of my life.

2011. Hard. Tough. Difficult. Painful.

Moving to a new city unexpectedly required so much out of me.

Not being able to say goodbye to family and close friends.

Leaving everything I owned behind.

Missed my spiritual family -- people I shared my life with intimately for years.

Awkwardly trying to build new relationships.

Yearning to fill an empty new home.

Losing two grandparents in a matter of three weeks and not being able to be with family during this time.

Juggling the demands of a full-time job, building two different ministries (middle school and high school), staying on top of running a household and managing finances that seem to keep on declining over time.

My conversations with God pretty much consisted of cries and selfish declarations of feeling forgotten.

I knew in my mind that I had to "consider it pure joy" when I faced these different trials. And yet my heart ached with pain rather than with hope.

And then one morning, as I was asking God "Why is this season so difficult?"

He spoke to my heart so loud and so clear. He lovingly responded back.

"If I made this year easy for you, then you would not have seen the depths of My faithfulness."

His voice was undeniable and my heart started leaping at the thought of how deeply faithful He truly was.

We got blessed by a car. Found an apartment in a safe location. It was once empty and yet today we have everything we need. Skype. New friends who took time to get to know me. Having that one friend I can run to in times of heartache. Craigslist. Outpouring of support (in finances, gifts, words, and prayers) to help us stay encouraged. Travel opportunities. Our marriage is the strongest it has ever been and it just keeps on getting better and sweeter.

Barbara Mouser in 'Five Aspects of Woman' said it so beautifully:

"God is good, & life is worthwhile in spite of its pain. I am regaining the joy of giving by accepting the pain & struggle. I do all I can to alleviate my sufferings & those of others. But even when pain & death do hold sway, I am not utterly quenched or without hope. At the depths of suffering, I keep finding Christ who is there before me."

The second sentence kept on resonating in my heart.

I am regaining the joy of giving by accepting the pain & struggle.

I am certain that God is challenging me this year with this one word:

GENEROSITY

And I humbly accept the challenge.

Sowing and giving sacrificially have never been personal struggles. But I am certain that God wants me to take it to a whole new ridiculous level.

The kind that hurts. If it is not painful, then I am not giving enough.

The kind that leaves me hanging by a thread and only God can make a way to provide.

I sincerely desire that even when resources seem to be scarce, I will give crazily.

He wants me to be generous with my money, my things, my time, my words, and my acts of service.

"And He has said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.' Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me." (2 Corinthians 12:9 NASB)

Please pray for me that this verse rules over my heart every single day of this year. I cannot do it without Christ's grace and without your prayers.

Share with me today:

What is your 'one word' for 2012?

2011: My Year in Photos

2011-12-31T13:01:00.001-06:00

"You can tell by looking at me that I've got more miles behind me than I've got in front of me. When you reach that point, if you've got some good years left, you want to make sure that you use them wisely." - Tom Osborne

Thank you for being a part of my 2011 journey.

Day 4: Leaves

2011-12-30T11:51:00.002-06:00

This is part of an ongoing (non-consecutive) photo series called the 30-Day Gratitude Photo Challenge.

If someone told me that this photo (which is unedited by the way) was taken from real-life scenery, I would not have believed it.

Photo Credit: Jennifer Pamilar

My friend, Jennifer, came by my home on a very early morning back in October and made me get up and go on a walk with her out to Radnor Lake.

I am grateful for that invitation that morning. I would not have seen something God made so breathtakingly beautiful.

I am grateful that at a morning my heart needed healing, He found a way to make it happen.

Day 3: Happiness

2011-12-29T16:51:00.001-06:00

This is part of an ongoing (non-consecutive) photo series called the 30-Day Gratitude Photo Challenge.

Happiness.

Christmas.

Family.

Home.

When I want to think of happy thoughts I close my eyes and think of Christmas in the Philippines and how my mother always went out of her way to make it special for us.

A beautifully-decorated tree.

Lots of presents!

Mouth-watering food.

Decadent desserts.

Even though the country was considered third-world and very poor by world standards, everyone pretty much gave gifts to everyone they knew.

You can be 75 years old and still have lots of presents to open!

'Lack' was never a word to describe a celebration of the birth of Jesus.

Laughter. Fellowship. Love. Friendships.

Today, I am so grateful that my family and culture set a unique standard on the celebration of Christmas. What a blessing to be able to bring it to another country.

It is also such a joy to experience a different way of embracing the season here in the United States.

Fresh trees. Ornaments in every imaginable shape and color. Hot spiced cider. Snow. Fireplace.

Happiness is Christmas.

Thank You, Father, how You remained with me throughout this holiday season.

You are my source of joy.

It is always an honor to celebrate Your birth.

Favorite Fashion Comeback: Colored Jeans!

2011-12-27T19:06:00.000-06:00

I am probably too old to be wearing them but I am so thrilled that jeans are making a comeback in all hues you can imagine! I will be 36 soon but I will be the first to warn you: I will be rocking these quite often.

Photo Credit: Mama's a Rolling Stone

Here are some cute ones that I have found on the web lately.

In black found on Alloy.com

In chili pepper found on AnnTaylor.com

In turquoise found on Anthropologie.com

In cobalt found on Delias.com

In yellow found on DorothyPerkins.com

In fuchsia found on Express.com

In iridiscent khaki found on Forever21.com

In white found on JCrew.com

In walnut found on LandsEnd.com

Don't you just want to welcome 2012 in brights and colors?

Hope You All Had a Blessed Christmas

2011-12-25T20:47:00.000-06:00

May the joy and peace of Christmas be with you now and throughout the new year.

Book Review: Start Something That Matters

2011-12-10T11:24:00.001-06:00

Author's Note: I am delighted to bring in a guest post written by my good friend, Trisha Ingram. Read on to find out what she thought of the book.

Immediately when I saw this book I wanted to read it. Not because I was a huge fan, although that was the end result, but simply because I had seen TOMS shoes in Nordstrom and in a couple surf shops in California this summer and thought they were really cute.

I was aware they gave shoes away, but that's it. I was intrigued to know more about the company's background and how Blake Mycoskie came to start it.

A friend encouraged me to read at minimum the first chapter, The Toms Story. But at the end of Chapter 1, I couldn't put the book down!

Blake's experience compelled me to keep reading. I devoured the rest of the book in about two hours.

The author does a good job of challenging the reader to ask reflective questions to search for what cause one would serve. Then he follows up with encouragement and recommended resources for everyone to use.

He also explains that the foundation of building a company like this is trust. Trust internally with team members as well as externally with customers and the people they are committed to serving.

I believe what we all love about this company is what it does for social justice. TOMS helps make things right in the world.

And giving them our money for shoes helps us feel we are a contributor for change. It empowers us.

I can recall many discussions in my MBA entrepreneurship class last year about the growing trend of social entrepreneurship, or as I like to call it, business with a purpose. Whether it be clean water drinking filters, mosquito nets, food shelters, or any other cause, people are waking up to the fact that what we do makes an impact in the world.

And that it is possible, and respectable, to solve problems and still make a profit. In large part this book resonated with me because I am on my own quest to find a cause(s) that strikes me as much as it did Blake.

Perhaps whichever cause I love will inspire me to start a for profit or not-for-profit business. Regardless, I want to do work I am passionate about. I want to make a difference, leave a legacy for those behind me.

I believe this story of this book is a good example to helps others unlock a desire to make a difference.

Trisha Ingram, MBA is recently new to the blog world and authors Cali Girl to Cowgirl, a blog about her experiences moving from California to Tennessee. She is actively seeking a new opportunity in Organizational Development. Connect with her on Twitter or Facebook.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received two books free from Blake Mycoskie I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Book giveaway contest: Instead of an online giveaway of Mycokie's book, my husband and I launched a giving project for teens called The Luke 21 Project. A group of high school students were given 2-dollar coins each and take time to look for someone to bless the money with. They have to record what they did and turn in the responses. The names of each participant were put in a drawing of a pair of TOMS shoes and a copy of Star Something That Matters. The results will be posted in a future blog post.

Day 2: Smile

2011-12-03T09:40:00.001-06:00

This is part of an ongoing (non-consecutive) photo series called the 30-Day Gratitude Photo Challenge.

Today I wanted a different approach to the 'smile' challenge. I wanted to do much more than simply taking a photo of myself smiling and posting it on the blog -- although it looks like that if you quickly scan this post.

I was born and raised in a country where people are emotionally involved with anyone they interact with. A stranger is never really just a stranger. There has to be some kind of really involved engagement: conversation (now matter how brief it is), sharing of food, and yes, smiling at everyone you run into -- regardless of how you feel.

Living in a new city made me realize that the level of interaction is different with every culture. For example, I see that I am living in a culture where people prefer to keep to themselves. Privacy is heavily guarded. Interactions with strangers are not the the norm.

I don't think there is anything wrong with that. It's just different from what I was used to. In fact, I am so reserved that this way of life fits my personality more.

However, I wanted today's challenge to have a personal impact. As I was enjoying my time with the Lord, He put in my heart to make a difference in people lives today by smiling directly at them. The kind of smile that is genuine, sincere and communicating that their brief presence in my life matters.

So I did it. I smiled at the lady who prepared my Greek salad, the cashier at the dollar store, the workers in our apartment building. I smiled at every person I interacted with. When I made phone calls, I wanted the joy of my smile to penetrate through the communication lines.

The result should not surprise you. Every single person I smiled at willingly smiled back. All phone calls were warm and friendly. They wanted to engage more. They wanted to serve more.

If I truly want to make a difference in this lonely world, I shall take advantage of opportunities of making genuine connections. Maybe I will never know it but I might have healed someone's rough day through the warmth of a smile.

Day 1: Favorite Food

2011-12-01T23:24:00.001-06:00

This is part of an ongoing (non-consecutive) photo series called the 30-Day Gratitude Photo Challenge.

Filipino Food.

Nothing like it.

30 Day Photo Challenge: Gratitude

2011-12-01T23:13:00.001-06:00

December 1st.

Today, I am starting a photo project inspired by Positively Present and by my former home church in the Philippines with a similar gratitude challenge.

Check out the details.

I encourage you to do the same. Ending the year with an attitude of gratefulness seems to capture the true spirit of Christmas. I need to take a few steps back and enjoy the beautiful things God has blessed me with.

Praying that you have a lovely, joyful, stress-free December!

I love a good costume party ...

2011-11-05T12:30:00.002-05:00

Costume parties are a lot of work because it requires a lot of love. If it were up to me, I'd like to go to one only once a year.

But I do love a good costume party.

The youth group that we lead had its very first costume party Sunday night. Even though there are a couple of things I would have done differently, it had the elements of what I love about a costume party.

Creative costumes

Comfort food

Clean, dance music

Laughter

Check out the creativity of my friends.

This is us.

And this is everyone.

What's the best costume you have seen lately?

Endurance

2011-10-28T17:42:00.000-05:00

It's funny how you hear from God at the most random places and in the middle of the least "spiritual" activities. It happened to me last night at my Zumba class.

Photo Credit: http://jessielah.wordpress.com/

My favorite instructor was on leave. Heard about her being on the road with her touring musician husband.

Therefore, an couple of alternate Zumba instructors were doing the classes as substitutes. I personally find it difficult to adjust to new teaching styles every time I attend a class -- whether it is a fitness class or just a regular learning environment.

Last night was especially hard to adjust to. The instructor was the sweetest, nicest lady but I just could not get my rhythm on with her teaching style.

I was messing up on every routine. I am a bad dancer to begin with. While my favorite instructor had basic, high-impact, non-stop dance moves, last night's routines were a little more complicated.

Needless to say, I was struggling in keeping up with the class. Halfway through it, I was contemplating whether to leave the class or not. The indoor track at the gym looked way more appealing. And truthfully, going home, making some dinner, and watching the latest Parks and Recreation episode seemed the most appealing.

And yet I couldn't. It started becoming an issue of endurance when facing a difficult, almost unbearable situation.

I do not mean to "Jesus Juke" (after all it is just a Zumba class and I can't stand Jesus Jukes) but Romans 5:3-4 immediately came into my heart. It also happened to be my morning devotional Bible verse.

"More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope ..."

I started challenging myself quietly. If I cannot endure the difficulty of the remaining 30-minute class, then how will I respond when I start training for charity runs? How about when I am faced with really unpleasant leadership while working on a project? Or even on merely having to wait for 30 more minutes until a really bad conversation is over?

I knew that my character is not the best when it comes to endurance. I cannot stand long periods of suffering. In fact, I am terrible at it. I admire people who know the difference of what situations to endure and those that are clearly just a waste of their time.

I want to be able to withstand an uncomfortable situation. I want to someday run mile after mile and feel great every step of the way. I want to be able to discern events I have to put up with and the ones I can clearly walk out on. I want to be able to patiently wait on the promises of the Lord even if it is taking years to be fulfilled.

I do not know how long it will take for me to get to that point but I wanted last night's class to be the start.

Tell me:

Describe a time when you had to endure something so unpleasant.

What was the Lord's revelation to you?

Home

2011-10-27T18:30:00.000-05:00

Today, I am trying to fight homesickness.

I am happy where I am now but I am heavily burdened with two good reasons why I would like to be where my family is.

Happy Birthday Mommy! I miss you so much.

A year and a half is just too long a time to be away from you.

Rest in peace, my grandfather who we all fondly call "Tata."

It's too difficult not to be there to see you off.

No words to properly end this post. Just trying to put my emotional pieces back together. Nevertheless, I remain hopeful of the day I will see my family again.

Link Love: October 12, 2011

2011-10-12T10:42:00.003-05:00

Hi friends! I caught a virus Friday night which left me pretty much stuck in bed since Saturday. While I was not at my best physically, I refuse to let this downtime dampen my spirits.

I, instead, chose to cheerfully catch up on my reading. It's amazing how great books have piled up by my bed! I also bookmarked a lot of great content from the web and managed to read through them.

This resulted into -- ta da! -- a lot of link love for you today. Hope you enjoy the content!

How Not to Be a Jerk on the Internet by RELEVANT Magazine
I have written so many drafts about the same topic but it never went live because I am just not as good a writer as Jon Acuff. His commentary on this matter is on point.

The Importance of Under-Scheduling by SCOUTIEGIRL
For those who bite off more than they can chew. I have found myself being that person at times.

5 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Google+ by Digital Photography School
While I personally feel that Google+ has not gained its momentum at this time, it is still a legitimate channel in increasing your online presence. This guide is meant for photographers but it also helped a regular gal like myself.

The Beltline Bike Shop
A non-profit organization in Atlanta that take in donated bikes and then invite kids to earn a bike of their own through community service.

What I've Learned After a Year of Blogging by Chris LoCurto
Valuable and honest. Especially helpful to people who want to get their blog going.

Ten Signs You Are Near a Burnout/Meltdown by Perry Noble
I have seen this happen to people in ministry and thankfully, I haven't. It's always good to stand on guard.

31 Days to Find Your Blogging Mojo by Bryan Allain
For anyone who wants to gain blogging momentum. Only $4.99.

Dear 18 Me
If you write a letter to your 18-year-old self, what will you say?

Rock My Run
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned marathon runner, this is a great website to go to for running music playlists.

Decorating with Photos by Holly Mathis Interiors
A rice resource on how to personalize your home with your favorite photos. Perfect for people (like me) who takes pictures of pretty much everything.

Even Though They Seem Obvious by Refine Us
Justin Davis talks about three things things that have helped their marriage and how they love each other deeper every day. You might also want to check out their testimony and their ministry. A great display of God's grace and mercy.

Pastors' wives under pressure in husbands' ministries by Church Executive
A very alarming article and yet not surprising. My husband and I are deeply committed to praying for married couples (whether in ministry or not) -- that marriages will never be destroyed by infidelity. We all should be vigilant and praying daily.

Pastors' Wives Under Pressure by Leading and Loving It
A great commentary by Lori Wilhite on the article mentioned in the previous link. This is also a great website for pastors' wives who long for meaningful connections.

Society6
Affordable quality art prints

37 Great Quotes from Catalyst by Tim Schraeder
Schraeder is my go-to guy on detailed conference note-taking. Robert and I were, once again, blown away by Catalyst East 2011 in Atlanta. I am doing a photo recap soon but in the meantime, here is the list of thought-provoking statements at the conference.

Best of Nashville 2011 by Nashville Scene
I can't say I agree with all the 'chosen ones' but it is a good, comprehensive list. If you plan to visit the city, this is worth checking out.

Book Review: JOLT!

2011-10-10T14:37:00.000-05:00

The end of 2011 is right around the corner. If I were to reflect on the central theme of this year was like to me, one word resonates loudly: change.

Our journey required drastic adjustments to how we lived, how we budgeted, how we managed time, and how we looked for resources. We were in a position where we had no other choice but to make changes.

This is why the book 'Jolt!" by Phil Cooke spoke directly to me. It gave me the pep talk that I needed when my desire to fully embrace change was losing steam.

I felt encouraged to dream again -- nothing was off-limits. I was ready to take in whatever God wanted for me and my husband as we took on new roles.

The book also pushed me to make a more realistic approach in determining goals that are attainable. I took a hard, reflective look at my God-given gifts, and how I can passionately put them into action.

One of my biggest things in finishing a book is the way each thought is compartmentalized. "Jolt!" does a very excellent job in dividing it into five critical sections with helpful review questions at the end.

The sections are: Jolt Your Direction, Jolt What Matters, Jolt Your Potential, Jolt Your Heart, and Jolt Your Future. Because of how it was topically arranged, I was able to fully engage in each of the 25 chapters without feeling overwhelmed with information.

If you are currently embracing a major life change or even considering one, this book is an outstanding step-by-step guide into helping you make wise decisions as you take on a new journey. Change is good for you and me. Let's use this resource as we take our next courageous steps!

Additional Resources:
Buy Jolt! on Amazon
Get Jolt! on your Kindle
Follow author Phil Cooke on Twitter

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson as part of their Blogger Review Program called Booksneeze. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Happy 32nd Birthday

2011-09-25T05:59:00.000-05:00

You have the kindest, most compassionate heart that I know. You demonstrate it every single day out of pure love and devotion to Jesus.

There is no such thing as unpleasant in your eyes. Everyone is wonderfully made.

You see them through the lenses of our Father. I am blown away at the fact that out of all the love you willingly give, you chose me to receive the it more than anyone else.

Everyday I want become a better person because I have the privilege of witnessing Christ-likeness through your example. For you, every minute is an opportunity to be like Him.

You are the same when you are with others and when you are in solitude. I thought I knew what integrity looked like until I saw you live your life when no one is looking – consistent, unaltered, unwavering.

To you, there is no part to play, no role to perform. True and genuine at all times.

You don’t try to change people. You love on them the way God told you to.

You invest your heart in their stories. You pour your time in others selflessly.

Why? Because you know they matter to God and therefore, they matter to you. And yes, while you don’t force change on them, I see changed lives because you made them feel what it’s like to be worthy of love.

Today, it's your life that I celebrate. Our wonderful Father is smiling down upon you and takes pride that He calls you His child.

Happy Birthday Robert!

Best-Dressed at the Emmy Awards 2011

2011-09-21T17:29:00.001-05:00

I love watching red carpet arrivals on major awards nights and last Sunday's Emmys were not an exception. Admittedly, I personally feel that this year's awards was not the year of unforgettable fashion choices.

However, there are some ladies who still did it right. Check out my picks.

Evan Rachel Wood in Elie Saab

Nina Dobrev in Donna Karan

Sofia Vergara in Vera Wang

Just in case you missed it, here were my predictions for this year. I guessed a few obvious ones but I also missed a lot.

I am still very bitter about Steve Carell never being honored with an Emmy for his outstanding performance as Michael Scott in his 7-year run in The Office.

How about you? Who did you think was this year's best-dressed at the Emmy Awards?

Predicting the 2011 Emmy Winners

2011-09-14T14:25:00.000-05:00

My official Emmy 2011 ballot is in!

This coming Sunday is my first official "break" since we started our commitment to RUSH Franklin. It is usually our busiest day but I am taking that day off to indulge myself in an uninterrupted evening of watching the 2011 Emmy Awards.

I absolutely love (and very protective of) "alone times" and this is one of those rare Sunday evenings that I get to just kick back, relax and find pleasure in pure television entertainment. I am very picky with the TV series that I follow and it just thrills me to see most of them compete for the top awards.

So ... I am about to play my Emmy 2011 prediction game and see how close I am to the actual results on Sunday night. I have a bit of a warning though: I tend to vote for those who I am personally rooting for, instead of those who I actually think will win.

Here goes my Emmy Ballot of 2011.

Outstanding Comedy Series:
Modern Family

Outstanding Drama Series:

The Good Wife

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series:

Julianna Margulies (The Good Wife)

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series:

Steve Buscemi (Boardwalk Empire)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series:

Archie Panjabi (The Good Wife)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series:

Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones)

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series:

Amy Poehler (Parks and Recreation)

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series:

Steve Carell (The Office)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series:

Jane Lynch (Glee)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series:

Ty Burrell (Modern Family)

How about you:

Are you watching the Emmys on Sunday?

Cast your own prediction ballot!

Link Love: September 1, 2011

2011-09-01T16:24:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone! I am so happy to be back on the blog. I am hoping that I am a better manager of my schedule in September. Good news -- I have a lot of links to share with you today! I hope that you will find a couple that will either help or entertain you or BOTH!

turningArt
A new, 100% risk-free way to discover, fall in love with, and ultimately buy artwork. Starting at $15/month, you will get unlimited print rotations and see what art works best with your home. Look at it like the Netflix for your blank wall.

Like a Warm Cup of Coffee
The blog of the beautiful Sarah Mae who created one of my favorite e-books "31 Days to Clean: Having a Martha House the Mary Way." I just found out she is currently visiting Nashville and wish I got the chance to meet her!

Twitter Book Recommendations by Craig Groeschel
Pastor and author Craig Groeschel asked his Twitter friends to recommend leadership and spiritual books. Awesome reading list.

Parenting on Your Knees by Megan Hyatt Miller
Megan thoughtfully talks about being intentional and purposeful about praying for and with your children.

Mark Driscoll is a bully. Stand up to him. by Rachel Held Evans
I do not doubt for one second that Pastor Mark Driscoll loves Jesus and has had impressive leadership success. However, I have heard statements he has made in the past that made my spirit weep. I also have so much respect for Rachel Held Evans. Although her manner of response is not something I would do, I am actually glad someone stood up and brought this to his attention.

Obvious to you. Amazing to others. by Derek Sivers
Every time I second-guess a new idea, I watch this.

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Became A Parent by RefineUs
Lessons from a couple who had their first child in their early 20s.

The Digital Mom Handbook: How to Blog, Vlog, Tweet, and Facebook Your Way to a Dream Career at Home
I am really enjoying this book and have started making some moves.

The Fives Rules of Spiritual Engagement at Work by The High Calling
A great article in effectively and boldly integrating faith in the workplace.

BLT Bites by Bee in our Bonnet
Perfect and easy appetizers!

Discovering Your Passion by Kingdom Dreams
A great e-book. And it's free!

Strawberry Summer Cake by Mom Spark
Thinking of making this when my husband celebrates his birthday at youth service.

Connecting Youth Pastors' Wives
I feel understood here.

Melt-In-Your-Mouth Oatmeal Buttermilk Pancakes by Giver's Log
My mouth is watering. Planning to make this one Saturday morning.

How to tie a scarf
Printing this out and putting it up on my closet door. A much-needed guide as fall arrives.

The Perfect Palette
It is meant to be a wedding blog to help brides to pick out the perfect color scheme but I look to this for outfit and decorating ideas.

34 Photoshop Tutorials That Will Leave You Looking Like a Pro by onextrapixel
I am going to need this once I start making time for a proper photography lesson.

10 Can't Miss Photos to Take Each Month by Creating Keepsakes
A printable list of photography subjects. A great project to do in 2012.

The 50 Best Websites of 2011 by TIME
Found a couple of gems here.

And the verdict is ... by Perry's Scope
A thoughtful reaction to the Casey Anthony verdict

52 Weeks of Blogging Your Passion by SCOUTIEGIRL
A great blogging how-to e-book in a month-by-month format. Makes a great Christmas gift to anyone who wants to start blogging in 2012.

Movie Mistakes
I love movie goofs that made past the editing room. For example, Tom Cruise in Top Gun wears no sunglasses and then has them on in the same scene.

How about you? What are you looking at today?

Let It Go ...

2011-08-29T15:11:00.000-05:00

Someone driving ahead of you forgot to use a turn signal.

Let it go.

A guest failed to use a coaster for his glass.

Let it go.

The husband left the toilet seat up.

Let it go.

The person ahead of you is taking forever to order her food.

Let it go.

You chose the most thoughtful gift and you never got a thank you note.

Let it go.

Someone took two parking spaces.

Let it go.

When something you have "discovered first" suddenly becomes mainstream.

Let it go.

You sent an invitation for a meal in your home and never get a reply.

Let it go.

Your name was mispronounced.

Smile. Graciously correct. Then let it go.

You want to use that little blank status bar on Facebook as your current venting ground and hopefully get that message across to the one who offended you.

Just let it go.

If you want to be a forgiver of big offenses, be a forgiver of the little ones.

I am so glad to be back. How have you been?

My Trip to San Francisco

2011-07-18T14:23:00.000-05:00

Most of you know that I took a much-needed 4th of July weekend vacation to watch New Kids on the Block and Backstreet Boys. While that was the highest point of my trip, I also had a wonderful time exploring the city (the last time was in 1997), re-connecting with old friends, meeting new ones, and eating at places I do not have easy access to in my current city.

Here are some of the great things that went down on that 5-day trip.

About ten minutes after my friend Marclen picked me up from the airport, I saw this. Happiness.

The restaurant served Filipino food "carinderia" style.

Lechon paksiw. You tasted so good.

Not the biggest pinakbet eater but it went really well with the lechon.

Seeing huge billboards in Filipino is real riot to me.

Why hello. You just made my day.

The master lollicake maker at work. If you live in Manila and want to taste these yummy cake pops, visit The Lollicake Factory on Facebook.

Newly-formed cake pops.

Dipped and decorated.

I finally know why the red velvet lollicake is the bestseller!

The lovely Vanilla Moon Bakery in San Carlos.

Had a great meal and a glass of wine with my girl Trisha in this restaurant.

Warm bread dipped in this.

Trisha ordered organic buckwheat pasta with mixed wild mushrooms, garlic, and parsley.

I had housemade spinach pappardelle with braised Colorado lamb and San Marzano sauce.

We walked around downtown Redwood City

Visited Victory Church of the Bay Area headed by Neil and Blanche Bernardino

Beef empanada from Red Ribbon. Fresh and delicious.

Walking through downtown San Francisco

An "important" stop: H&M

The BEST Vietnamese food I ever had

Ate a Filipino-style lunch to celebrate my friend Candie's birthday.

Got to spend time with my friend Gene. It was so evident that God is doing amazing things in his life!

Nothing like quality time with friends to make a vacation worthwhile! Hoping to travel out that way again soon.

NKOTBSB 2011 (San Jose, CA)

2011-07-08T19:10:00.001-05:00

I have been away from the blog for a few days because I took a much needed break from my busy days in Nashville. I had the perfect vacation and I am excited to tell you all about it!

It all started with a casual Tweet. I saw that my favorite boy band (back when I was a high school sophomore) New Kids on the Block is going on tour with Backstreet Boys (I was too old at the height of their popularity).

I immediately thought that it was a brilliant cross-selling business idea. Such savvy business men! And then the teenager in me got *giddy* at the thought of seeing the New Kids live again.

So I tweeted about my excitement. Then my friend LJ (who lives all the way in the Philippines) started looking online for concert tickets.

Then I got that overseas call from her. She got the tickets. All I need to do is fly to San Francisco on 4th of July weekend.

I know it sounds crazy. But our conversation sounded so normal because there was an understanding that our love for NKOTB will always be with us; and a little reunion just made perfect sense. I saw their comeback in concert a couple of years ago in Omaha (which I loved), but I thought that watching it with girlfriends this time will bring in a totally different experience.

What a fun vacation. Just what I needed. The past six months have been crazy (all in a good way). The timing couldn't have been more perfect.

We made our posters.

LJ made a killer banner. And it was rightfully acknowledged by the boys.

I cannot take credit for my poster. My friend Marclen made it for me.

These boys came in with a hot intro. Their song "Single" mashed with Coldplay's "Viva La Vida" -- which is one of my favorite songs of all time.

Screaming. Singing. Dancing. FROM THE SECOND ROW!

It pays to stay healthy, look good, and take care of yourselves. Otherwise, you will not be performing at sold-out concerts 20+ years after you quit the band. For that very reason, I salute you old kids.

Big surprise: I really enjoyed watching Backstreet Boys. Never really followed them because I felt too old (read: a then-pretentious, wannabe-sophisticated lady in her 20s who thought being a snob was cool) when they were really famous.

However, it was a lot of fun jumping and dancing with the much younger generation -- something I did not get to experience in the 2008 NKOTB concert in Omaha.

I watched Brian Littrell and thought to myself, "he looks like he really loves Jesus." It was how he engaged with the crowd. It was the way he did not flirt. He was just having a great time performing and looked really joyful doing so. A little Google-ing later proved that I was right. I am now a fan.

We had these plans of staying out late after the concert and celebrate what it was like to be a young teenager again. However, our age told our bodies otherwise. Feet hurt. Voices gone. Tummies starving.

Perfect way to end a fun night.

Sometimes we all need to be 16 again. An evening full of teenage flashbacks allowed me to find more ways to be grateful for the fact that I am older, wiser and blessed.

And who I was convinced to marry twenty years ago does not even come close to the one I actually ended up with.

God knows.

Check out all photos taken from that fun evening on my Flickr photo album.

Book Review: Good Girls Don't Have to Dress Bad

2011-06-29T11:37:00.000-05:00

I am not new to books that talk about style, fashion and makeup. In fact, I have been blessed (as gifts by very thoughtful people) with many excellent publications from InStyle, Lucky, Nina Garcia, Tim Gunn, Kate Spade, and Bobbi Brown.

However, there is something so fascinating about a book talking about the same things but from the perspective of our Creator -- the very One who fashioned each of us so that we may be the highest representation of what He sees as beautiful. Interesting isn't it?

More about that later. First and foremost, the book is loaded with practical advice for both the clueless and the fashion-savvy.

What does it cover? You will find a generous amount of information on the following:

Figuring out your body type
How the right hair color will bring out your best natural features
How your clothes can go far with gorgeous accessories
Investing in correct underwear
Minimizing the pains of swimsuit shopping
Basic makeup application
Searching for that flattering pair of jeans (this one helped me a lot!)

Now the better stuff. Author Shari Braendel deals with deeper issues that women typically associate with beauty.

Some of us believe that there is one body type that is considered more attractive than the others
Some of us feel like they have to spend so much on clothing that we give up looking nice altogether
Some of us associate modesty with boring and outdated
Some of us have a hard time grasping the idea of being "fearfully and wonderfully made"
Some of us just have no clue how deal with all this looking good stuff
Some of us feel defeated as we compare ourselves to other women

Braendel made a very thoughtful attempt to clear these issues out before the practical lessons. It was not in-depth but it was a strong start.

I hope that it will encourage the book's female readers to dig deep into the Word in order to figure this part out. I feel that it is necessary to sort out the junk inside before doing work on the outside.

(Note: I highly recommend getting the Kindle version of this book. Great reference when you go out shopping!)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Zondervan as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Link Love: June 22, 2011

2011-06-22T20:35:00.001-05:00

I am loving the warm summer month of June! And what I am loving more is the fact that today I will be sharing with you some awesome links I have found on the Web lately.

Hope that you find at least a couple of stories that will bring delight to you!

My entryway and a Huggable Hangers giveaway by I'm an Organizing Junkie
A lady had an entryway closet that looked exactly like ours. Therefore, her organizing project inspired mine. In fact, I copied it down to the last detail!

Five Simple Steps to Tone Your Thighs by Tip Junkie
An easy step-by-step guide to get rid of that thigh jiggle. Bookmark this if you want to look like a million bucks in your summer shorts.

10 Tips to Save Money on Groceries Without Coupons by Simple Midwest Mom
Too busy to get into couponing? There are still many other ways to cut back on your grocery expenses.

How to Lose Friends by In The Name of Love
A well-written blog post by Bianca Juarez about cultivating friendships -- something I am still trying to figure out up to this day.

Happy Mother's Day by Jill Thomas Photography
A gorgeous maternity photo shoot of actress Autumn Reeser. I loved her in the television show No Ordinary Family.

How Should We Respond to Osama bin Laden's Death? by JoshHarris.com
It was difficult for me to process my feelings and reaction to bin Laden's death. Josh Harris wrote a very thoughtful and helpful perspective.

Simple Tips to Grill the Perfect Burger by Lifehacker
I have never grilled a burger but this article makes it so easy. You will see me flip some patties soon!

Eight Easy Ways to Get Traffic to Your Blog by Style Me Pretty
Helpful tips by Abby Larson. Beginners will learn a lot of this post.

Erasing Hell by Francis Chan
The most beautiful response to a theological debate that has produced the good, the bad, and the ugly.

How You Can Come With Us to the Philippines by Chatting at the Sky
I am doing everything I can to get more people to sponsor a Filipino child through Compassion International. Please take the time to read this.

Dating Delilah by Judah Smith
A youth pastor wrote purity from his own perspective. The ebook is free to download.

What to Do with Old Cards and Letters by Simple Mom
I managed to keep all cards and letters since I was in elementary school! Yes, believe it. Now I know what to do with them.

One Habit that Radically Changes a Family by A Holy Experience
Six ways to develop the habit of daily family Bible reading.

Why Is It So Hard to Connect Spiritual Value to Our Work? by The High Calling
Our spiritual life should stand out in the workplace. The way we do our work must be driven by our deep love for Jesus. One of the many great posts in an excellent blog about being Christ-like in the marketplace.

iPad Resources by Andy Naselli
I haven't seen a good iPad 'must-haves' list in a long time. Andy Naselli wrote a very good one.

A Balanced View on Singleness by Boundless
Are you single and Christian? A deeper look on pursuing marriage honorably.

Catalyst Adoption Story
I love how Catalyst uses its influence to encourage believers to adopt. This story by Andy and Tanya Ehlers is making me seriously consider foster care in the next couple of years.

Japan: three months after the quake by Boston.com
Haunting photographs of Japan three months after the 9.0 earthquake and tsunami rocked the country.