Those little legs made it 2 miles today…and soon will be swimming. Love my outdoor kids!

Sometimes we make our own waves through doubt…lack of knowledge…or quick tempers…but through faith and when our eyes are set on things not of this world, that is when true blessings flow. This morning, I had the privilege of an early morning swim alone. I was quiet and still and watched a falcon soar high above, past the peak of the trees, and yet far under the sliver of what was left visible of a thin crescent moon. I heard birds sing and chirp, insects stretch their wings and rub their legs together in triumph. Then, I made my own waves. Yet, these waves were full of God’s love and energy…and extremely rejuvenating. And now I sit and watch the waves calm… my heart and soul are still in awe of his presence, my doubt wiped clean, my mind fresh… and I am ready for what today will bring!  Matthew 8:26 “He replied, ‘You of little faith, why are you so afraid?’ Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.”

Last Day of VBS…
“We fall down
We lay our crowns
At the feet of Jesus
The greatness of
Mercy and love
At the feet of Jesus”

Back in March, I lost a beautiful friend. She made such an impact on my life in the short time that I knew her, that I made a promise to myself and to my family to be a better version of myself. She was such a positive light and touched so many lives. She always had a smile on her face and never a negative word. Such an amazing woman of God- we even used to joke about her taking “happy pills”. I hope one day that people who read my FB wall or meet me in person will question my happy factor! I find nothing wrong with people posting about blessings in their lives, whether it be financial, or relationship related…or about their vacations…their kids…their God….work related promotions…mission trips…cute cuddly animals…fitness and wellness goals…or even about their amazing meals (well, unless I am hungry 😉) I rather have a feed full of baby animals, motivational quotes and Bible verses, and pictures of strange meals than a page full of negative political debates or depressing news stories. Winston Churchill once said, “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.” I agree that attitude can make a big difference; however, I don’t think attitudes are just little things. Attitudes are contagious. Is yours worth catching?

My dad is one of the most selfless men that I know, especially when it comes to his children and grandchildren! I have so many fond memories from childhood, and I have a hard time without going 24 hours without talking to him (let’s be honest – sometimes I talk to him NUMEROUS times a day). He has taught me so much and I am so blessed to have him as a role model. I used to hate country music because it wasn’t cool, but he would make me listen to it and Paul Harvey all the time… because “country music tells stories”. I have grown to love the lyrics of country songs (and other genres) that follow a storyline. So, for this Father’s Day, I picked a special song out just for my dad. I recently heard it for the first time even though it is several years old, but it sums up so many memories of my childhood, including the ones I didn’t even know that I was making. Dad, I may be 30 something, but I will always be your little girl, and I want to go fishing with you – you can hook my bait, I can hook the tree, and we can take home the trophy! But, when I think about it, I already have the trophy, and it’s you! Thank you for being an honorable man! I love you more than any words or any lyrics can ever express! Oh, and yes it is 30 minutes before Father’s Day, but sticking with tradition, I have to try to beat the siblings (and just in case I forget to call you tomorrow…)!

Evil is real. Hatred is evident. BUT the power of prayer can overcome because God is bigger! Please join me in praying not only for the families of those who fall victim to hatred, but also for the hearts of those consumed by evil. There is no evil that is bigger than our God!

What fuels you? God, family, success, a fat pay check, nutrition, coffee, exercise, money, vacations, a peaceful nights rest, time with the ones you love?