My sister, Emily, is book worm and so is her boyfriend, Josh. She constantly gushes to me about how I need to read this book and that book. I find myself reading blogs, short exerpts of books online and online articles but to actually sit down in peace and quiet and read a book was pushing it. She sent a book anyways and I have to say I'm glad she did. Against all odds, I began to read.
The book is 'Crazy Love' by Francis Chan. I've tweeted a tad about it, but as I read along it truly speaks to me and the way I'm living my life. Don't get me wrong, I'm actively seeking God each and everyday but that doesn't justify my decisions. Do you ever feel guilted and pressured into loving God and seeking a relationship with him? I know I fall to that each and everyday. I try to convince myself that by doing something then I am making God happier; what a drag. Chan explains this as work, hard work that isn't need. When someone is in love with God, it isn't work, it's manifestation. Doing those deeds that used to seem like work suddenly become a part of life.
While I read, I wept. I knew he was speaking to me. This is my life, I do what I think I need to do to get to Heaven. Let me ask you something, do you ever have questions rolling around in your head like... "Will I still go to heaven if I get a divorce?" or "Will I still go to heaven even though I have sex with my girlfriend and we aren't married?" or "Will I still go to heaven even if I'm not baptized?", I know that I am consumed with questions similar to these but why? Chan says, "These questions are tragic because they reveal much about the state of our hearts. They demonstrate that our concern is more about going to heaven than loving the King." Wow, how powerful right?
I read this and then re-read this statement several times; I had to try to put it in perspective. From what I understand, if we LOVE God and have an active relationship with him, these questions shouldn't be a concern. "If you love me, you will obey my command" (John 14:15). God doesn't want us to just believe there is a God, but he wants us to know him, love him and seek him; even sinners believe.
In today's world and our modern society, we try to make being a 'Christian' seem easy. Whatever works best for our schedule, for our lifestyle, our ego and our pocketbook. Don't you agree? It has taken me to break down to nothing to truly understand this. There is nothing I can say to to justify my actions to the Lord. He knows me, how can I hide from the one who created me? Chan breaks it down plain and simple; either you are a Christian or you aren't. You may bulk yourself up in public to look like one, but do your actions equal this? He says, "I gave God leftovers and felt no shame, I took my eyes off of Scripture and compared myself to others." It is easy to fill our lives up with junk and give God the rest. A prayer before bed, a couple bucks given each week at church isn't enough.. is it?
As I laid in bed and read I was overwhelmed on how 'wrong' I was on being a Christian and how sorry I felt for the way I had been living my life. God wants us to want him, to love him and is readily available for us. Because we are a nice person, friendly to others and a good citizen doesn't make us a Christian. In fact, I know several people who are great people, but not Christians. We are sinners, we are human and through it all God's grace covers us. Where do you fall on this scale, are you a lukewarm Christian?
If you have time or even if you don't, think about these words and how Chan truly delivers an amazing message. As I reflect deeper into his book, I will blog more.
Make today a new day, start living your life for God. I love you!
ONElove,
Abby Marie
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Enough is Enough
Happy Wednesday!
Yesterday was election day.. yay, fun for me; although, I'm sure most of you hate it! I don't know what it is but I engulf myself into politics.. lately more than ever. I find myself googling terms, searching for articles and watching endless videos.. I constantly want to know more more more! I am firery, I have an opinion, I want to be heard and yet, I still feel like I don't know enough.
It bothers me more than anything when someone catorgizes me as not caring for the poor because I vote republican (red).. really? I work two jobs, am a recent college graduate with student loans up to my nose and most importantly I am a young mother. If anyone needs help, it's me! You will never see me with my hand out begging- it is my responsibility to take care of myself and my family. I am working 2, not one but 2 jobs currently and picked up a coaching job on top of that for Christmas money. I worked full-time through college and still didn't make enough to not take out loans.
I am most definitely NOT upset that I have to pay for healthcare, that I have to buy baby food and that I have to work to get money, why should I be? These days it is too easy to get assistance. Let me let you in on an incident that recently happened to me. When Braylon, my son, was born I was offered WIC. A program (wonderful might I add) offered to young mothers and their children for assistance with formula, food and nutritional items. I am not the type to let go of my pride and take free help but at the time, I was fresh out of college in a dead market and desperate to give my child the best of the best. I decided I would give WIC a try; we mainly used it for formula since Braylon was required to use a special brand that cost $21.50 a can.
When Braylon was 10 months old, I weened him off of formula and began feeding him regular milk and baby food. I set up a consultation with WIC and informed them I would no longer be needing their services but was grateful for their help. The woman who was on the other side of the desk looked at me confused... "Excuse me Mrs. Jefferson, you mean you don't want to continue with our services? Ma'am this service is available until your child is 5, it's free Ma'am." I insisted that I was through with their service but thanked them for helping me when I had nowhere else to turn.
The moral of this story is, assistance is there if you need it but don't take advantage of it. In fact, that service isn't free... you, as tax payers paid for my formula for 10 months and I thank you for that. As a citizen and tax payer myself, I knew that I had the option to feed off of the Government for the next 5 years but how fair is that? How considerate am I to do that when I am able to work myself to feed my own child- because in fact, it is my child not yours.
I believe in old school ways. You get what you work for. You are who you work to be. Having morals and proclaiming yourself a Christian (or whatever religion you practice) is normal.
So, yes, I am a Republican! I vote straight Republican ticket every time and will continue to do so. I believe in working hard and getting what you worked for. I do understand that there are circumstances where one may not be able to provide for their family; hence the assistance available; however, feeding off of our country for years and years is a shame. I do agree there needs to be change with our system; trust me, I am not getting paid nearly enough, but I'm doing what I need to do so my child is fed and has clothes on his back. I continue the search to understand our policies; I believe we can pull out of this mess we have gotten ourselves into. Our culture is so self-indulgent; we believe that we are owed everything at the cost of everyone else. It saddens me.
America, this is your responsiblity. Get educated; know the facts. We as the middle class are not the only ones who need tax breaks; small businesses who provide the majority of jobs for us need them too. Small businesses are the men and women who have worked day in and day out to provide jobs to others; they are the American way of doing things.
Our country is so clouded right now; what a shame. My prayers are with our President every single day... the people have spoken, are you listening?
"On the average day, we live caught up in ourselves. On the average day, we don't consider God very much. On the average day, we forget that our life truly is a vapor." -Francis Chan
Use your short time on this earth to make a difference.
ONE love,
Abby Marie
Yesterday was election day.. yay, fun for me; although, I'm sure most of you hate it! I don't know what it is but I engulf myself into politics.. lately more than ever. I find myself googling terms, searching for articles and watching endless videos.. I constantly want to know more more more! I am firery, I have an opinion, I want to be heard and yet, I still feel like I don't know enough.
It bothers me more than anything when someone catorgizes me as not caring for the poor because I vote republican (red).. really? I work two jobs, am a recent college graduate with student loans up to my nose and most importantly I am a young mother. If anyone needs help, it's me! You will never see me with my hand out begging- it is my responsibility to take care of myself and my family. I am working 2, not one but 2 jobs currently and picked up a coaching job on top of that for Christmas money. I worked full-time through college and still didn't make enough to not take out loans.
I am most definitely NOT upset that I have to pay for healthcare, that I have to buy baby food and that I have to work to get money, why should I be? These days it is too easy to get assistance. Let me let you in on an incident that recently happened to me. When Braylon, my son, was born I was offered WIC. A program (wonderful might I add) offered to young mothers and their children for assistance with formula, food and nutritional items. I am not the type to let go of my pride and take free help but at the time, I was fresh out of college in a dead market and desperate to give my child the best of the best. I decided I would give WIC a try; we mainly used it for formula since Braylon was required to use a special brand that cost $21.50 a can.
When Braylon was 10 months old, I weened him off of formula and began feeding him regular milk and baby food. I set up a consultation with WIC and informed them I would no longer be needing their services but was grateful for their help. The woman who was on the other side of the desk looked at me confused... "Excuse me Mrs. Jefferson, you mean you don't want to continue with our services? Ma'am this service is available until your child is 5, it's free Ma'am." I insisted that I was through with their service but thanked them for helping me when I had nowhere else to turn.
The moral of this story is, assistance is there if you need it but don't take advantage of it. In fact, that service isn't free... you, as tax payers paid for my formula for 10 months and I thank you for that. As a citizen and tax payer myself, I knew that I had the option to feed off of the Government for the next 5 years but how fair is that? How considerate am I to do that when I am able to work myself to feed my own child- because in fact, it is my child not yours.
I believe in old school ways. You get what you work for. You are who you work to be. Having morals and proclaiming yourself a Christian (or whatever religion you practice) is normal.
So, yes, I am a Republican! I vote straight Republican ticket every time and will continue to do so. I believe in working hard and getting what you worked for. I do understand that there are circumstances where one may not be able to provide for their family; hence the assistance available; however, feeding off of our country for years and years is a shame. I do agree there needs to be change with our system; trust me, I am not getting paid nearly enough, but I'm doing what I need to do so my child is fed and has clothes on his back. I continue the search to understand our policies; I believe we can pull out of this mess we have gotten ourselves into. Our culture is so self-indulgent; we believe that we are owed everything at the cost of everyone else. It saddens me.
America, this is your responsiblity. Get educated; know the facts. We as the middle class are not the only ones who need tax breaks; small businesses who provide the majority of jobs for us need them too. Small businesses are the men and women who have worked day in and day out to provide jobs to others; they are the American way of doing things.
Our country is so clouded right now; what a shame. My prayers are with our President every single day... the people have spoken, are you listening?
"On the average day, we live caught up in ourselves. On the average day, we don't consider God very much. On the average day, we forget that our life truly is a vapor." -Francis Chan
Use your short time on this earth to make a difference.
ONE love,
Abby Marie
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Bullying... whose fault is it anyway??
My mom and I were talking about bullying, sex, teenagers etc.... Being a kid these days is difficult- I'm sure it was when I was young too, but I just had that "everyone is my friend" attitude. You know what I'm talking about.. the type of attitude where I'm here and available to be your friend but if not, that's okay too. I feel its the best way to be- putting yourself out there but not enough to get your feelings hurt.
Lately the media has bombarded our households with tear-jerking stories about suicide and attempts at suicide due to bullying. Many celebrities have started anti-bullying campaigns; in attempt to putting a stop to prejudices against gay and lesbian students and bullying in general. I couldn't agree more, but it stems deeper than that. These are severe cases we are witnessing, but don't you agree with me when I say bullying is everywhere, not just with openly gay students?
My mom constantly asks Grant (who is straight), "Are those guys mean to you on your team Grant, just tell me?".. Of course Grant always ignores the questions and assures us they aren't; but how are we supposed to know? Here he is, a sophomore, approximately 125 pounds and starting on Varsity football over many other OLDER players... Granted, they never throw him the ball, sometimes I wonder if they forget he is there. Regardless, he's there and maintains his calm demeaner day in and day out. He's the type of kid that if he were to be bullied, nobody would be aware of it. I will say with 100% confidence, I don't think he is bullied... but I'm sure many others like him are. Why do we bully? Who do we pin point? What is our motive? Whether it is because of sexuality, gender, race, or athletics.. it is happening at an enormous rate.
I believe in order to contribute to an initiative of anti- bullying-- Parents have to step in! This is YOUR responsibility, YOU are accountable for your children. How can we point the finger at others? Our children from a very young age adapt to their surrounding environment; what they are exposed to at home with their family, music lyrics played while they are present, language used in front of them and/or directed at them as well as religions beliefs or lack there of-- the future is in the hands of their parent.
What ethics are we instilling in our kids these days? Have we forgotten how to act? It is a disgrace to see various videos of parents cheering their teen on while fighting another teen on the playground. It sickens me to think we are so ignorant in this country. Why are we allowing our teenagers to host parties with alcohol present- have we not enough tragedies in this world already? We need to get back to the basics of raising our kids with proper morals, ethics and beliefs. In other words, we cannot stop bullying in this country until parents take some responsibility for their actions and make positive changes in their lives.
In the same respect, teenagers are old enough to know what is right and wrong. A 'slap on the wrist' won't phase most of them anyway- so what is the answer? I would love to know how you feel about this?
Maybe you are the underdog on the football team, the only openly gay student in your school, one of three black students in your class... how do you cope? What are your ideas? My prayers are with you-- you are NOT different, there is no normal these days. In a time where our country is SO fragile.. troops overseas, Chrisitianity is consider a joke and the hot topic on Good Morning America is Lindsay Lohan going to rehab again.. I apologize that such important issues such as bulling have been overlooked. You do not deserve this, nobody does!
This issue is something that is weighing heavy on my heart... I encourcage all of our parents to read this and use it in your everyday life. Be the bigger person! I challenge our media and celebrity figures to show control, act in a way that is positive for our teens who are idolizing you each and everyday. Sex tapes are NOT the answer, cussing on television shows NO class, acting like rich high class snobs DOES NOT help us, the middle class out. Bring yourself down and see the real issues-- your lives are blasted all over our television screens, think before you act. As a mother, sister and woman... I'm begging.
Until next time.. xO.
Lately the media has bombarded our households with tear-jerking stories about suicide and attempts at suicide due to bullying. Many celebrities have started anti-bullying campaigns; in attempt to putting a stop to prejudices against gay and lesbian students and bullying in general. I couldn't agree more, but it stems deeper than that. These are severe cases we are witnessing, but don't you agree with me when I say bullying is everywhere, not just with openly gay students?
My mom constantly asks Grant (who is straight), "Are those guys mean to you on your team Grant, just tell me?".. Of course Grant always ignores the questions and assures us they aren't; but how are we supposed to know? Here he is, a sophomore, approximately 125 pounds and starting on Varsity football over many other OLDER players... Granted, they never throw him the ball, sometimes I wonder if they forget he is there. Regardless, he's there and maintains his calm demeaner day in and day out. He's the type of kid that if he were to be bullied, nobody would be aware of it. I will say with 100% confidence, I don't think he is bullied... but I'm sure many others like him are. Why do we bully? Who do we pin point? What is our motive? Whether it is because of sexuality, gender, race, or athletics.. it is happening at an enormous rate.
I believe in order to contribute to an initiative of anti- bullying-- Parents have to step in! This is YOUR responsibility, YOU are accountable for your children. How can we point the finger at others? Our children from a very young age adapt to their surrounding environment; what they are exposed to at home with their family, music lyrics played while they are present, language used in front of them and/or directed at them as well as religions beliefs or lack there of-- the future is in the hands of their parent.
What ethics are we instilling in our kids these days? Have we forgotten how to act? It is a disgrace to see various videos of parents cheering their teen on while fighting another teen on the playground. It sickens me to think we are so ignorant in this country. Why are we allowing our teenagers to host parties with alcohol present- have we not enough tragedies in this world already? We need to get back to the basics of raising our kids with proper morals, ethics and beliefs. In other words, we cannot stop bullying in this country until parents take some responsibility for their actions and make positive changes in their lives.
In the same respect, teenagers are old enough to know what is right and wrong. A 'slap on the wrist' won't phase most of them anyway- so what is the answer? I would love to know how you feel about this?
Maybe you are the underdog on the football team, the only openly gay student in your school, one of three black students in your class... how do you cope? What are your ideas? My prayers are with you-- you are NOT different, there is no normal these days. In a time where our country is SO fragile.. troops overseas, Chrisitianity is consider a joke and the hot topic on Good Morning America is Lindsay Lohan going to rehab again.. I apologize that such important issues such as bulling have been overlooked. You do not deserve this, nobody does!
This issue is something that is weighing heavy on my heart... I encourcage all of our parents to read this and use it in your everyday life. Be the bigger person! I challenge our media and celebrity figures to show control, act in a way that is positive for our teens who are idolizing you each and everyday. Sex tapes are NOT the answer, cussing on television shows NO class, acting like rich high class snobs DOES NOT help us, the middle class out. Bring yourself down and see the real issues-- your lives are blasted all over our television screens, think before you act. As a mother, sister and woman... I'm begging.
Until next time.. xO.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Crazy, Chaos.. just how I like it!
Have you ever tried to get somewhere but just couldn't? Late for everything? Wanted to get to those dishes done before bed, but your eyes were burning? Planned on buying a card for the wedding but took too long to get ready and walked into the reception card-less... take a step into my office!
Lately, I feel like I can't keep up; like I'm swimming upstream rather. If it isn't one thing, I swear its another. A couple of weeks ago, Braylon experienced a severe allergic reaction.. but to what? This lasted for 4 days.. after 2 trips to our pathetic pediatrician's office, I finally drove Bray to the ER. His left eye looked like he just stepped out of a boxing ring and the rest of his body was consumed with huge red and white puffy circles and he was itchin' like the dickins! It was a sad scene; never had I felt so helpless.
He was miserable and 'baby' benedryl wasn't doing anything for him. Bray and I sat (not really) in the ER for the majority of the morning before severe doctors told us, "We just don't know what could be causing this reaction, we may never know"... Thank you! Needless to say, we have no idea how my poor lovey could have such a severe reaction, but he is looking like himself again. What a stressful week though- any working mom knows what I'm talking about. I felt so torn between my obligation to work and tending to Braylon. It all worked out but it was another obstacle of being a working mom.
Emily & Josh flew home for Grant's homecoming which just so happened to be at the tail-end of Braylon's break out. Overall, it was still a great weekend. They won the game and Emily & I were able to have some great QT together. We hung out, watched the MI game, played with Bray and had a bonfire. Weekends like that warm my heart; so bittersweet. Some days are worse than other though; having her all the way in Texas is so difficult but we make it work. Weekly skype dates (love technology) and daily g-chat convos fill the void of living on opposites sides (north & south) of this great country.
Isn't this a great picture of us during the Homecoming parade... <3>
Here are some more pictures from our weekend.. enjoy :)
After that weekend, another full force ahead work week came and went. I swear life during the week is a blur.. its another one of those trying to keep up stories. Between Braylon, working and volleyball I can hardly find time to shower.. jokes! This past weekend was CMU's homecoming. All of my college roommates and I made plans to head back to CMU to celebrate being alumni and reunite for a weekend together! Let me just say, coming back is not the same! I also don't really drink these days so that I'm sure had a lot to do with it. We had terrific weather to tailgate in, it was high 60s with lots of sunshine! I have to say, just being around friends like them makes me melt; I've missed them so much but my life back home has me moving in another direction. I will forever be thankful to have met such great people!
Now, I'm buried deep in this work week but will admit I have a hard time believing it is already Wednesday. My volleyball season is coming to an end.. YES! I actually need to cut this short and head to our game tonight... until next time, ONElove!
Abby
Lately, I feel like I can't keep up; like I'm swimming upstream rather. If it isn't one thing, I swear its another. A couple of weeks ago, Braylon experienced a severe allergic reaction.. but to what? This lasted for 4 days.. after 2 trips to our pathetic pediatrician's office, I finally drove Bray to the ER. His left eye looked like he just stepped out of a boxing ring and the rest of his body was consumed with huge red and white puffy circles and he was itchin' like the dickins! It was a sad scene; never had I felt so helpless.
He was miserable and 'baby' benedryl wasn't doing anything for him. Bray and I sat (not really) in the ER for the majority of the morning before severe doctors told us, "We just don't know what could be causing this reaction, we may never know"... Thank you! Needless to say, we have no idea how my poor lovey could have such a severe reaction, but he is looking like himself again. What a stressful week though- any working mom knows what I'm talking about. I felt so torn between my obligation to work and tending to Braylon. It all worked out but it was another obstacle of being a working mom.
Emily & Josh flew home for Grant's homecoming which just so happened to be at the tail-end of Braylon's break out. Overall, it was still a great weekend. They won the game and Emily & I were able to have some great QT together. We hung out, watched the MI game, played with Bray and had a bonfire. Weekends like that warm my heart; so bittersweet. Some days are worse than other though; having her all the way in Texas is so difficult but we make it work. Weekly skype dates (love technology) and daily g-chat convos fill the void of living on opposites sides (north & south) of this great country.
Isn't this a great picture of us during the Homecoming parade... <3>
Here are some more pictures from our weekend.. enjoy :)
After that weekend, another full force ahead work week came and went. I swear life during the week is a blur.. its another one of those trying to keep up stories. Between Braylon, working and volleyball I can hardly find time to shower.. jokes! This past weekend was CMU's homecoming. All of my college roommates and I made plans to head back to CMU to celebrate being alumni and reunite for a weekend together! Let me just say, coming back is not the same! I also don't really drink these days so that I'm sure had a lot to do with it. We had terrific weather to tailgate in, it was high 60s with lots of sunshine! I have to say, just being around friends like them makes me melt; I've missed them so much but my life back home has me moving in another direction. I will forever be thankful to have met such great people!
Now, I'm buried deep in this work week but will admit I have a hard time believing it is already Wednesday. My volleyball season is coming to an end.. YES! I actually need to cut this short and head to our game tonight... until next time, ONElove!
Abby
Thursday, September 30, 2010
October.. Sweet Sweet October
September has been a crummy month to say the least. It started off with a bang- Braylon and I's trip to Austin to see Emily; but that ended quick and life hit me square in the throat.
The weather changed from gorgeous to gloomy so that set the mood for the next few weeks. September 11, of course we remember that day for our fallen Americans in the worst attack on American soil in history; it was also the worst day I've had in a years. Dajuan, Braylon and I were headed to a UofM football game party and ended up in a horrific car accident. I'm glad to report we are all okay, we were definitely banged up and bruised but okay to say the least! It all happened so fast and put our lives into perspective in a matter of seconds. Dajuan and I have had a busy couple of weeks trying to get me a new car and get all the 'details' worked out to say the least. What a HEADACHE! Insurance battles, buying a new car, fines etc. This past month has felt like one big wrench in my side. I am thankful to be alive but so overwhelmed with the aftermath.
After the crash, I had to pick life up and move forward, I'm coaching volleyball still and working both jobs. Coaching is so much more difficult than I ever thought it'd be. Parents, kids, put that on repeat and you get my point! I love the game, or else I would have walked a while ago. I'm looking forward to the end of the season and not really looking back hehe.
I do love October though, don't you? The leaves are so gorgeous and serene. I love when you take a deep breath and the air is so crisp it makes you cough.. mmm! My brother, Grant Hilton as most of you know has been playing on Varsity Football this season and Friday nights have not let me down! There is something about Friday nights under the lights, fresh air and football that warm my little heart! Braylon is Uncle Grant's number ONE fan! He is 17 months old now; when he sees Uncle Grant he says, "fball, fball mammma"... SO CUTE! He relates Grant to football- smarty pants. My little hunny bear is going to be an athlete- he has to be, end of story :)
This month is also Dajuan and I's FIRST WEDDING ANNIVERSARY! Can you believe it has already been a year, so great :) I'm so happy and blessed, we are so happy! It's such a toss up when you end up having a baby before the wedding- at least I think it is. We did everything out of order and let me just say, I wouldn't wish that for anyone. Every decision is more of a challenge, the level of commitment isn't there and the perception of others isn't always a supportive one. None the less, we've made it and I'm so proud. I thank God for showing me the path to take to get me to this point in my life- it took me making bad decisions in order to have life fall into place. I'm starting to learn God's plan is far bigger than I ever expected. His love for me is so deep; I constantly mess up and he wipes my slate clean. I yearn to be holy. Does that make sense to you? I want to live my life to his expectations; of course I'm human and a stubborn one at that! I mess up all the time, but I know my God is an awesome God!
My prayer for this month is to continually show me that I am not in control, that my plan isn't always right and that my timing isn't yours Lord. I thank-you for sparing our lives in on that rainy day and look forward to every morning you bless us with. Life may be crazy but it's blessed, we're blessed.
Amen,
Abby Marie
The weather changed from gorgeous to gloomy so that set the mood for the next few weeks. September 11, of course we remember that day for our fallen Americans in the worst attack on American soil in history; it was also the worst day I've had in a years. Dajuan, Braylon and I were headed to a UofM football game party and ended up in a horrific car accident. I'm glad to report we are all okay, we were definitely banged up and bruised but okay to say the least! It all happened so fast and put our lives into perspective in a matter of seconds. Dajuan and I have had a busy couple of weeks trying to get me a new car and get all the 'details' worked out to say the least. What a HEADACHE! Insurance battles, buying a new car, fines etc. This past month has felt like one big wrench in my side. I am thankful to be alive but so overwhelmed with the aftermath.
After the crash, I had to pick life up and move forward, I'm coaching volleyball still and working both jobs. Coaching is so much more difficult than I ever thought it'd be. Parents, kids, put that on repeat and you get my point! I love the game, or else I would have walked a while ago. I'm looking forward to the end of the season and not really looking back hehe.
I do love October though, don't you? The leaves are so gorgeous and serene. I love when you take a deep breath and the air is so crisp it makes you cough.. mmm! My brother, Grant Hilton as most of you know has been playing on Varsity Football this season and Friday nights have not let me down! There is something about Friday nights under the lights, fresh air and football that warm my little heart! Braylon is Uncle Grant's number ONE fan! He is 17 months old now; when he sees Uncle Grant he says, "fball, fball mammma"... SO CUTE! He relates Grant to football- smarty pants. My little hunny bear is going to be an athlete- he has to be, end of story :)This month is also Dajuan and I's FIRST WEDDING ANNIVERSARY! Can you believe it has already been a year, so great :) I'm so happy and blessed, we are so happy! It's such a toss up when you end up having a baby before the wedding- at least I think it is. We did everything out of order and let me just say, I wouldn't wish that for anyone. Every decision is more of a challenge, the level of commitment isn't there and the perception of others isn't always a supportive one. None the less, we've made it and I'm so proud. I thank God for showing me the path to take to get me to this point in my life- it took me making bad decisions in order to have life fall into place. I'm starting to learn God's plan is far bigger than I ever expected. His love for me is so deep; I constantly mess up and he wipes my slate clean. I yearn to be holy. Does that make sense to you? I want to live my life to his expectations; of course I'm human and a stubborn one at that! I mess up all the time, but I know my God is an awesome God!
My prayer for this month is to continually show me that I am not in control, that my plan isn't always right and that my timing isn't yours Lord. I thank-you for sparing our lives in on that rainy day and look forward to every morning you bless us with. Life may be crazy but it's blessed, we're blessed.
Amen,
Abby Marie
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Here, There, and Everywhere
Hi All! It's Thursday, one day closer to the weekend. My plan was to blog earlier this week, but things have been all over the place so here I am! It has been an amazing couple of weeks. Two weekend ago, Dajuan and I traveled across state to Saugatuck, MI, where my Uncle Dony has his boat in the Yacht Club there. It was their annual Margarita Party; Dajuan and I have made it a point to attend each year. This year was no different, it was amazing! The weather couldn't have been better- low 90s and sun!
What a beautiful sight of Lake Michigan, I'm convinced there is no better!
Dajuan and I were able to spend endless hours on the boat, and in the water as well as get in some quality time with great people! Below is a picture of us on the dock at the Club, cute right?
Aunt Prudie kept Braylon over night so we were actually able to enjoy the water all day Sunday as well. After that weekend treat we headed back East home to Braylon and to prepare for the upcoming week; after all, Braylon and I were jet setting to Austin, TX on Thursday to see EMILY ELIZABETH! The week actually went by quite fast and before you knew it, Braylon and I were in the air headed south to Austin.
After our walk, we hurried to get ready for church and lunch. Church was held in an event center building right downtown. It was a gorgeous area, with beautiful highrise buildings around it. Take a look at the set up!
Considering this was a final day, we headed out to lunch for one last hoorah! Emily took us down to South Congress Ave.; it really reminded me of Ann Arbor or Nashville. So eclectic and artsy, I loved it. We ate at Guerro's Authentic Mexican Restaurant. Nothing like going out on a good note! The food was delicious and they even had table side entertainment. After we were done with lunch, we walked the strip checking out dozens of cute shops; it was so hot, we didn't last long.
I hope the pictures do our trip some justice, it was simply amazing. I'm so blessed. Thank You Emily for all that you did for Braylon and I, we had the best time and cannot wait to come visit again.
I hope all of you enjoyed your Labor Day weekend and are all back in the swing of things now that school is off and running! OH, and I almost forgot, my girl's had their first volleyball game last night, and we WON! Lots of work still to do, but hey, I'll take it. Just call me coach ;-)
Until next time.... Abby Marie
What a beautiful sight of Lake Michigan, I'm convinced there is no better!
Dajuan and I were able to spend endless hours on the boat, and in the water as well as get in some quality time with great people! Below is a picture of us on the dock at the Club, cute right?
Aunt Prudie kept Braylon over night so we were actually able to enjoy the water all day Sunday as well. After that weekend treat we headed back East home to Braylon and to prepare for the upcoming week; after all, Braylon and I were jet setting to Austin, TX on Thursday to see EMILY ELIZABETH! The week actually went by quite fast and before you knew it, Braylon and I were in the air headed south to Austin.
Can I just say, I have the most amazing sister in all of the world! She was so great to us while we were in TX. She spoiled Braylon beyond belief. It was adorable, when we first arrived at her house (which is absolutely gorgeous by the way), she had dresses laid out for me and an outfit laid out for Braylon that she had bought for us, as well as lots of diapers, swim suits and sunglasses! We arrived late Thursday night, so we headed to bed shortly after we landed to prepare for some eventful days ahead.
Friday morning was wonderful! We woke up and made 'pannicakies' as I like to call them to Braylon. Of course he devoured 4 medium sized cakes before I cut his cute little butt off. Then we all showered and headed out to lunch and shopping. Emily took us to the 'Domain Shopping Center' in North Austin. It was raining that morning and luckily Braylon was ready for a nap; it was amazing, Emily and I strolled for hours roaming exquiste shops and restaurants.
Here are a few pictures from our afternoon:
After a day filled with shopping bliss, we headed out to dinner at Mangia's... a couple blocks from where Emily lives, so we walked. It's a great Chicago style pizza place. It was so yummy!
After dinner, Emily's roommate Mary volunteered to watch Braylon for a couple hours so that we could go downtown to 6th Ave. and check out the night life. The city at night is so gorgeous, as most cities are. We walked for what seemed like forever, but hey, whose complaining! Josh took us to his favorite restaurant, Iron Cactus, where we sat rooftop sipping on some Cactus Juice Margaritas! YUMMY!
That is the end of day ONE! The next day we met up at Josh's apartment complex pool area with some of our cousins from Nothern Texas and spent the day grilling out and swimming. It was awesome to relax and just enjoy being on VACATION! My cousins are so cute and can I just say, that Braylon had the time of his life. By the end of the day, he was jumping off the edge into my arms!
Here are a few shots from the day:
After spending endless hours in the sun, we were all so burnt out and tired. The Spear cousins all headed back home and Emily, Josh, Braylon and I headed out to Plucker's for dinner! I'm so disappointed I didn't get a picture of my deep fried pickles, but boy were they delicious! It was a nice relaxing evening, we sat on the patio, ate good food and chatted over pickles and wings... mmm :)
I couldn't believe how fast our trip was going, before I knew it, it was Sunday, our last full day in TX... tear! We woke up and took a nice walk through Emily's gorgeous neighborhood. Emily lives right off of University of Texas' campus in a colorful neighborhood of houses occupied by mainly professors and administration of the University. I couldn't help but take a few shots of these beautiful homes, their architecture was so unique and pretty.
Emily's House:
Here are some of the beautiful houses in her neighborhood:
That is the end of day ONE! The next day we met up at Josh's apartment complex pool area with some of our cousins from Nothern Texas and spent the day grilling out and swimming. It was awesome to relax and just enjoy being on VACATION! My cousins are so cute and can I just say, that Braylon had the time of his life. By the end of the day, he was jumping off the edge into my arms!
Here are a few shots from the day:
After spending endless hours in the sun, we were all so burnt out and tired. The Spear cousins all headed back home and Emily, Josh, Braylon and I headed out to Plucker's for dinner! I'm so disappointed I didn't get a picture of my deep fried pickles, but boy were they delicious! It was a nice relaxing evening, we sat on the patio, ate good food and chatted over pickles and wings... mmm :)
I couldn't believe how fast our trip was going, before I knew it, it was Sunday, our last full day in TX... tear! We woke up and took a nice walk through Emily's gorgeous neighborhood. Emily lives right off of University of Texas' campus in a colorful neighborhood of houses occupied by mainly professors and administration of the University. I couldn't help but take a few shots of these beautiful homes, their architecture was so unique and pretty.
Emily's House:
Here are some of the beautiful houses in her neighborhood:
After our walk, we hurried to get ready for church and lunch. Church was held in an event center building right downtown. It was a gorgeous area, with beautiful highrise buildings around it. Take a look at the set up!
Considering this was a final day, we headed out to lunch for one last hoorah! Emily took us down to South Congress Ave.; it really reminded me of Ann Arbor or Nashville. So eclectic and artsy, I loved it. We ate at Guerro's Authentic Mexican Restaurant. Nothing like going out on a good note! The food was delicious and they even had table side entertainment. After we were done with lunch, we walked the strip checking out dozens of cute shops; it was so hot, we didn't last long.
I hope the pictures do our trip some justice, it was simply amazing. I'm so blessed. Thank You Emily for all that you did for Braylon and I, we had the best time and cannot wait to come visit again.
I hope all of you enjoyed your Labor Day weekend and are all back in the swing of things now that school is off and running! OH, and I almost forgot, my girl's had their first volleyball game last night, and we WON! Lots of work still to do, but hey, I'll take it. Just call me coach ;-)
Until next time.... Abby Marie
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Dazed & Confused
Hi World! It's Wednesday, which means it's not Friday.. so technically, I'm not happy. Work is so slow and boring. I want more. I need more. I'm craving a challenge, more money, and feeling worthwhile. I'm sure many of you have taken jobs because they are avilable but realize you have settled. I know my hand is in the air, I'm one of you. At this time in my life, I know that working is a priority, so that justifies my reason for being unhappy with what I'm doing, right?
I've been wrestling with the idea of being a stay-at-home mom again until I find the right job for me? It's something I ponder into often. I hate the fact that Braylon is learning his colors from a daycare teacher, while I sit at this desk all day. Dajuan and I have discussed me staying at home again but just aren't comfortable with the idea. It is a secure paycheck and right now, we need stability; however, does money justify happiness? In today's world money is everything, right? I feel so torn and angered about it all. God will always provide; my happiness means more to me...I think. Why did I even go to college? Why put in the late nights and long hours if I can't relish in an end result?
Yes, I'm only 24, but I have responsibilities, dreams, goals and a son depending on me. I want more. God knows my desires and my needs. He knows my faults and what my weaknesses are. I keep telling myself that he has me here for a reason. It always comes back to the same verse: You may not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand. I want God to listen! Why won't he bless me with a clear answer? These struggles are constant battles that I have within... Aren't you constantly struggling with a battle that you feel you can't win?
In my case, there is one thing that is clear... I want to feel like I have a purpose, what that purpose is, I still don't know. Maybe it is to be a stay-at-home mom...pray for me would you? I've said it before, but I'll say it again... I have been digging deep with God in the past few months; I want to feel his presence. I want him to know I'm here on this stranded island ready to be rescued! Life is too short, to be anything but happy. I'm hoping to have a conclusion to my questions soon, I just don't want to make any rash decisions and hate myself for it in the end.
On a more upbeat note, I've taken the role of Birch Run's 8th Grade Girl's volleyball Coach for Fall 2010. Our practices started last week... wow am I in for a busy couple of months! So far so good; I have 27 girls, two teams and lots of attitude! I like it though; it's been good for me. I enjoy helping them, and giving them self-confidence. It's fun to watch them learn and try to understand the game. I'm hoping for an exciting season! I'll post lots of pictures as the season unfolds.
Here's to hoping that the last few weeks of summer are grand! Cheers!
Abby Marie
I've been wrestling with the idea of being a stay-at-home mom again until I find the right job for me? It's something I ponder into often. I hate the fact that Braylon is learning his colors from a daycare teacher, while I sit at this desk all day. Dajuan and I have discussed me staying at home again but just aren't comfortable with the idea. It is a secure paycheck and right now, we need stability; however, does money justify happiness? In today's world money is everything, right? I feel so torn and angered about it all. God will always provide; my happiness means more to me...I think. Why did I even go to college? Why put in the late nights and long hours if I can't relish in an end result?
Yes, I'm only 24, but I have responsibilities, dreams, goals and a son depending on me. I want more. God knows my desires and my needs. He knows my faults and what my weaknesses are. I keep telling myself that he has me here for a reason. It always comes back to the same verse: You may not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand. I want God to listen! Why won't he bless me with a clear answer? These struggles are constant battles that I have within... Aren't you constantly struggling with a battle that you feel you can't win?
In my case, there is one thing that is clear... I want to feel like I have a purpose, what that purpose is, I still don't know. Maybe it is to be a stay-at-home mom...pray for me would you? I've said it before, but I'll say it again... I have been digging deep with God in the past few months; I want to feel his presence. I want him to know I'm here on this stranded island ready to be rescued! Life is too short, to be anything but happy. I'm hoping to have a conclusion to my questions soon, I just don't want to make any rash decisions and hate myself for it in the end.
On a more upbeat note, I've taken the role of Birch Run's 8th Grade Girl's volleyball Coach for Fall 2010. Our practices started last week... wow am I in for a busy couple of months! So far so good; I have 27 girls, two teams and lots of attitude! I like it though; it's been good for me. I enjoy helping them, and giving them self-confidence. It's fun to watch them learn and try to understand the game. I'm hoping for an exciting season! I'll post lots of pictures as the season unfolds.
Here's to hoping that the last few weeks of summer are grand! Cheers!
Abby Marie
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