Life with the Queens Jeremiah 29:11

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 18:07:00 +0000

Changes

Life is always changing though sometimes we feel stagnant. Truly things change more quickly than we realize or sometimes like to admit. As spring is approaching, we see changes in our lives.

I have felt that I have been in this place forever; one of questioning, frustration and often anger. A time of learning how to be in today, not the past or future. A time of learning to let go and let God handle my problems; really handle them, not just paying lip service to that idea. A time of questioning what is really worthwhile and important.

So here we are at another change; William is driving a truck again and will be on the road often. I will run our cabin care business and oversee the jobs. I will be quitting my job at Roses so I can be home for Hayden and available for William when he needs me. Also, I may ride with him every once and awhile to keep him company!

Have a learned everything I/we needed to? NO. I am only beginning to understand what all this has meant; I don't believe that we have passed through this time completely. We still have much to learn and understand. These changes require faith on our part as it is easy to become comfortable in that stagnation (where God wanted us), even it is really uncomfortable. Does that make sense? You know where you are even if it isn't where you want to be and it makes more sense humanly to just stay there. So, change becomes difficult.

So, here we go into the unknown. New job, new responsibilities, but same good God.

Ecclesiastes 3:1ff
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance...

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 17:57:00 +0000

Rejoice In It??

This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalms 118:24

In it?? I have to rejoice in it, not after it? Well, that is not necessarily easy for me. I find myself struggling through the day and only rejoicing when it is finally over and I survived. But, I don't think that is what God intends for me; He has something better in mind.

See, I don't think He intended for me to go through each day miserable just praying for it to be over. Unfortunately that is the habit I have gotten into and it has to stop. Guilt over the past, anxiety over the present and fear of the future is not what my heavenly Father has chosen for me, but it is what I have chosen for myself.

And if I don't get it, the Lord gave me examples to follow. Paul and Silas sang while IN jail. Jonah prayed IN the belly of the whale. Daniel had faith IN the lion's den. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego..., well you get the idea. TODAY and IN are the key words. NOT AFTER!

The Lord made TODAY for me and I am to rejoice IN it. But, how do I find joy in the day when it stinks, when things are not great or going my way. Choice and attitude.

I must choose to find joy in the day that the Lord made. My attitude must reflect the gratitude I have in God giving me breathe. HOW?? Minute by minute if necessary. Hour by hour. I must retrain my thinking with God's help. And He is willing, the question is, am I.

It may be difficult to begin with and require much effort on my part. But, I only have to work on one day! I only have today. 24 hours, 86,000 heart beats. I am given today, do I really want to be miserable for those 24 hours. NO! Absolutely not!! I am weary with this burden I have been carrying. Joy has escaped me, fear has ingulfed me and each day seems dark.

So, 2013 must begin differently. I can not wallow in guilt of the past, be anxious about today or live in fear of tomorrow. I must claim the promises of God and apply them daily, one day at a time. Will it be easy? No. I have spent a lot of time cultivating this negative mindset. Will it be worth it? Absolutely!!! I believe God's promises and He has promised peace. I can be fearless!

John 14:27
I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid.

Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong! Be courageous! Do not be afraid of them! For the Lord your God will be with you. He will neither fail you nor forsake you.

Isaiah 41:10
Fear not, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed. I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you with My victorious right hand.

Blessings,

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 18:56:00 +0000

“Be not conformed to this world” Romans 12:2

What does this mean to me? What does God want this to mean to me? That is an interesting question. As I sit and ponder this verse, I wonder if I think about it enough or really at all.

Conformed: 1.To correspond in form or character; be similar.

2. To act or be in accord or agreement

3. To act in accordance with current customs or modes

New Testament Greek - συσχηματίζω - I conform to

to conform one's self (i.e. one's mind and character) to another's pattern, (fashion one's self according to)

If I am not to pattern myself after this world, then as a Christian, I would pattern myself after what?

If I am not to 'act in accordance with current customs or modes, what customs or modes am I to act in accordance with?

If I am not to 'correspond in form or character' to this world, what am I to correspond in form or character to?

If I am not to 'be in agreement with this world, who or what am I to be in agreement with?

At first glance, I would answer, well God, of course. But, what does that mean, what does that look like. Giving the right answer doesn't complete the question, because this requires action, not just the right answer. Conformed is a verb; it requires action. Action requires choices, informed choices. Choices should be made after gaining understanding and knowledge. Understanding and knowledge come from study. You see where I am going?!

'Conformed' may look different to each person, but the common denominator is that we, as Christians, don't pattern ourselves after the world. But, again, what does that look like???

I see the world creeping into the body of Christ. Historically, the church is on average, around 10 years behind current culture. Meaning, what is accepted in the world is eventually accepted in the church. Every church? No, but in many and in the beliefs of many who call themselves Christians. Are we jeopardizing the biblical view of God?

Some insights:
-The divorce rate in our churches equals or surpasses the worlds
-Some evangelical churches have taken a 'market driven' approach to church
-Some churches have changed to 'look' more like the world
-Homosexuality is accepted in a growing number of churches
-Modesty has conformed with the standards that the world sets
-Unwed pregnancy is accepted and even celebrated

So why mention this stuff when I was talking about personal 'conformity'? Because, this effects us. I am not talking about a perfect Christian or God's forgiveness; this is about choices. We can't hide behind "well no one is perfect" or "God forgives". That is not the point here. This is about that verse at the beginning of this post. What does it mean to me?? How do I act on it?

Is the church and therefore the Christian, different for every culture?

What does 'be not conformed to this world' mean to me, I am reevaluating that right now.

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 20:59:00 +0000

Make Lemonade???

I've always heard that when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. If I have heard this saying once, I've heard it a 1000 times. I have used it on many occasions.

Lately, it feels like those lemons are being hurled at me at 100mph and all I can do is dodge them. There is no lemonade to be made.

So, what do I do?

Psalm 91

1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”

Sometimes all we can do is take shelter; there is no making lemonade or anything else out of the situation or circumstances. Is this failure? I don't think so, though at one time I probably would have said it was. In fact, in truth, I would have definitely thought I or anyone else that failed to 'make something out of lemons' was a failure.

As God tests and grows me, He is also changing my perspective and some of my long held beliefs. Sounds scary, doesn't it? Well, it is! It means that I am having to 'give up' some things, rethink some things, and reevaluate some things. For me, that is huge. If you know me well, you know it is huge... humongous... darn big. I am not easily swayed, hence some hard lessons have come my way. And hard is not a strong enough word for what I have experienced.

I want to be able to fix things. I want to use my intelligence to make things work. If I put enough effort out, it will work, right? But, God doesn't value that 'effort' as much as He values my dependence on Him.

So, I am learning to hide in Him. HIDE? That means I am weak. Yes, Lisa, you are weak, in and of yourself. See, I had it all wrong. I thought I was being strong in Him, but not really. I was still working in my own strength, relying on my own intelligence and my agenda.

To hide in Him means something so much deeper than my human mind can naturally fathom. It is to be covered by Him, to be concealed. My Father wants me to run to Him in times of distress (or when lemons are being flung at my head). He is willing to shield me, but so often I just stand out in the open taking the hits.

It doesn't make me weak to hide in Him! It makes me strong in Him. I can never be strong enough myself; I have got to stop trying. It goes against everything the world says I should do. It turns the logic of the world upside down. I might even look weak to the world at times and I have got to be ok with that.

Have a figured it all out? Nope. But, I am working on it. I do not begin to have the answers. I still don't understand all that I and my family are going through. What I must do though, is find shelter in Him and forget about the lemonade.

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 17:29:00 +0000

TWO YEARS AGO

Two years ago this month I experienced one of those life changing experiences. It was discovered that I had a pulmonary embolism. If you would like to read about it go back to October 17-21, 2010 on my blog. I just re-read my posts and cried a little, I relived my sweet family's pain of watching me suffer.

I can't believe it has been just two years, it seems like much longer. Much has changed since then for me and us as a family. We are certainly stronger, a little wiser, our faith is greater. I have lost 150 lbs. and my health is much better. I work a part time job now where I stand for hours at a time, which I could not have done two years ago.

This girl wouldn't leave my side for a moment and she learned a lot about herself and the strength she has.

This sweetie took care of the home and my boys while I healed. I know she wanted to be with me, but she did what she needed to do. She learned a lot also, about herself and the strength of her family.

These two worried and made sure the girls were ok. My sweet, sweet boys.

John 14:27
I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid.

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 18:20:00 +0000

I'm Back!!
It has been too long; I have been busy though with work, family and stuff. Yes, work! I have a part-time job now as a customer service manager at our local Roses!! It is not a bad gig at all and I like working with the public, believe it or not.

Weight loss is going great. 150 lbs now. Once I wrapped my mind around calories vs. energy expelled vs. metabolism it was simple. I eat within a certain calorie range, eat healthy, lose fairly regularly, experience plateaus without freaking out (most of the time) and feel 100% better. Two years ago I could not have done the job I do now at work because I couldn't stand for 30 minutes, much less hours at a time.

God has blessed us in so many ways. Earlier this year our refrigerator started going out and a dear friend felt led to get us a new one. So humbling for us, and a huge blessing. A few months ago our oven went out; we could use the stove top though. At first I thought, oh no, we can't do this, but we did and we felt blessed to have the stove top. We remained content with what we had. A month or so back we thought we had found a stove, but things didn't work out. (that happens for a reason) I wasn't upset by this and resolved that we would gather the money to buy one or continue to do with what we had. Then Wm's cousin contacted us and said he knew someone that had a gas oven they wanted to sell. I asked, of course, how much. He said $25.00. I thought, this has to be a mess; the last one we thought we had was older than this one and they wanted a lot more. It was perfect! Newer than the one we had and looked like it had never been used and it was $25.00!!!! It works perfect. God is good!!

William continues to have work into November and December, which is always a huge blessing. And the fact that his health is good as he enters his mid 50's is another blessing. He can work circles around guys half his age. He is an amazing husband and father; so faithful and devoted.

The kids are wonderful, as always. Wm. and I are so blessed to have 3 great kids. Hannah is working on a cookbook proposal and getting other photography jobs and selling her prints. Her persistence and patience is paying off, along with her amazing talent. Sarah is praying for direction from God for her life, but while she is, she is doing a beautiful job keeping the house running and the family fed while I work. It is sad that this is underrated in our society today; our homes are the heart of the family and so incredibly important. This is where we find refuge, safety, acceptance and love. They should be well cared for and Sarah is doing just that. Hayden is helping is dad with the business and has become invaluable to William. He continues to develop his musical talent on various string instruments and will begin his Eagle Scout project soon.

God continues to faithfully teach me much. Every experience is an opportunity for me to learn more about God's nature. More about His endless grace, my endless need, His extravagant love, my need for His love. My need for Him is greater than any other need I have.

Remember, the greatest is yet to come!!

Today's Post Brought to You By the Number 5

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Wed, 16 May 2012 19:31:00 +0000

That is because I got a new skirt in the mail today and it is 5 sizes smaller!!!!!!

This is the first skirt I have purchased since beginning my weight loss. I, like most women, had various sizes in my closet including some that hadn't fit in a long time. So, I have had clothes to wear. But, I needed a new denim skirt desperately as my old ones were cinched up as far as they would go.

I really thought I had been too ambitious with the size; I figured I would be sending it back to exchange it for a size up or so. BUT, NO!!! It fits, in fact, I could probably go another size down!!

Psalms 71:14

But I will hope continually, and will praise You yet more and more.

Thankful For His Voice

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 17:20:00 +0000

I just miss it sometimes and it frustrates me to no end. I want to hear it above all else: above my doubts, above the world, above my need to control. But, sometimes His is not the loudest voice; it is that constant, never changing word that I already know and He has no reason to yell at me.

I am thankful that He doesn't lose patience with me, but continues to speak into my life through His Word and the Holy Spirit.

When I do hear, even if I am slow to hear, I am thankful for God's sovereignty in my life. My spirit soars when I see how He works things out for the good even when I am slow to get with the plan. To know that His plan will not be thwarted gives me peace when I am frustrated.

You shall walk after the Lord your God and [reverently] fear Him, and keep His commandments and obey His voice, and you shall serve Him and cling to Him. Deuteronomy 13:4

And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you if you heed the voice of the Lord your God. Deuteronomy 28:2

Catching Up

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 17:46:00 +0000

I can not believe it has been so long since I blogged. Life has been busy and full of challenges for our family. Thankfully God's blessings outweigh any of the difficulties.

In February, to mix things up a bit, my heart decided to jog one evening. I became very dizzy and ill and we made a trip to the ER. The doctors couldn't get my heart rate down in the ER so I got to spend two nights in ICU. :) The medicine finally did the job and all my tests came back great so I was sent home! No more incidents, but I think Hannah feels that two health scares in less than 1.6 yrs. too much. Bless her heart.

Sarah, Hayden and I continue to LOVE our homeschool co-op. They have made wonderful friends and their classes are great. I teach Bible to 3rd-6th grade and every week I am amazed at these kids. They are insightful and inquisitive. We studied the names of God the first semester and this semester we are studying some of the Proverbs. I enjoy every minute of teaching them and I love to see God bless our time.

God continues to work on me in many ways; sometimes it is painful and humbling...ok, most of the time it is painful and humbling. I struggle often with money and trusting God's provision when I can't see how He will provide. I struggle with empathy at times and God put opportunities (read challenges) in my path to exercise my compassion. I fail often, but He is patient and allows me to ask forgiveness and try again. It hurts to fail, but I try to learn something every time I fall short.

Proverbs 15:31
He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise.

As my children get older I find that this season of life is so sweet. These amazing people are my friends as well as my children. Though I still guide, provide and chasten, they are truly a joy to be around. I love our conversations and debates. I stand in awe at their zest for life. I am blessed.

Isaiah 54:13 All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children.

Spring has come to our mountains and we are enjoying it to its fullest. Winter wasn't harsh this year, but we always miss the color Spring brings and the sounds of the birds in the trees. The temperature has already reached into the 80's so I wonder what summer will be like.

I choose to seek joy daily. Do I succeed everyday? Well, certainly not every hour, but God is honoring my striving. I tell my Bible class, wisdom by definition, is something gained over time and with experience; it does not come quickly or easily. We must be patient, for it can not be gained through anything but living life and knowing God's word. And wisdom brings joy and the Bible says that wisdom gives us protection. I love God's promises!

Proverbs 4:6-7
Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.

James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

The Journey

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 23:42:00 +0000

The weight loss journey has been interesting and eye opening. Wholly enjoyable also. Some have asked to see some progress pictures, so here they are!

Before:

During:

To be continued...

Thanksgiving and Other Stuff!

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 13:59:00 +0000

It seems like forever since I have blogged. It has been a busy month or so for the Queen family with co-op, business, etc.

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with lots of yummy food. Then we decorated for Christmas! This is done with great flourish and enthusiasm! Before you know it everything that doesn't move is decorated, sometimes even if it does move!

Two weeks ago the kids and I went to the Shakespeare Tavern in Atlanta to see 'A Christmas Carol'. We had a wonderful time and the play was fabulous.

Lots of pictures below!!!

Sarah did each of us a place setting w/ our name on it.

Hannah made a wonderful pecan pie for her dad.

William wove lights around the laurel going upstairs.

Shakespeare Tavern

Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Blessings,

30 Years Ago

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 18:59:00 +0000

This past weekend William and I attended my 30th high school reunion. 30 years??! Wow! When did that happen?

I had worked on the planning committee, but I didn't have any specific expectations regarding the reunion. I knew it would be great to see my class as it was not a very big graduating class and we were pretty close. I had heard some updates on various people and was interested in learning more about their lives after all this time. But, I wasn't prepared for the emotions when a former teacher and our administrator spoke.

Our favorite history teacher attended and he had a major impact on most of us. His wife, now deceased, was our English teacher and we loved her also. He spoke of her and the tears began to flow. Then he spoke of his own struggles and his spiritual bucket list; more tears. He moved us all over again and gave us much to consider. A classmates wife noted that we all sat enraptured with what he said like we must have in high school. Good observation on her part. I am thankful for this teacher as he gave me the tools to succeed in college and for the love of history he imparted. I am a history buff to this day!

Then our administrator, who is 80, spoke to us. He was so moved by the reunion and spoke kindly, like a gentle grandfather. He said that he loved us, but that he didn't tell us that 30 years ago. We understood, he had a tough job that required him to be the disciplinarian; and trust me, a disciplinarian he was! I am thankful for the 'fear' I had of him; he taught me much.

Finally, it was a joy to catch up with my classmates. What a great group of people!!

Burt's Pumpkin Farm

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 19:44:00 +0000

Today the whole family went to the pumpkin farm!! We are making the most of this fall since I kinda ruined last fall with my embolism and all.

It was freezing, but that just made it better. Note William's pose below.

Two of my favorite girls! Aren't they purdy??!!

There was music playing so Hayden and Sarah decided to bust some moves. Talent runs deep in this family!

Hayden had to suffer through one of Hannah's 'lets get you to sit on that cold ground over there and take off your coat, but don't look cold" photo shoots. Bless His Heart!

The wonderful, amazing, selfless parents.

We had a blast, enjoyed each others company and got some pretty pumpkins. Hannah actually likes the ugly pumpkins; she thinks that they need a home too. You know those 'artsy' folks.

photography by Hannah Queen

One Year Ago

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 22:42:00 +0000

One year ago today I was in the emergency room waiting to be transferred to Erlanger in Chattanooga. We had just found out that I had a massive pulmonary embolism and we were trying to wrap our minds around what that meant.

Now we realize that it meant I probably wouldn't live, but live I did!

A year later and 90 lbs lighter, I feel like a different person, inside and out. There is no way to describe how blessed I feel to still be here with my family and friends.

This fall has been wonderful for us since last fall wasn't so good. We have enjoyed going to festivals and just being outside looking at the beautiful leaves.

Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil

”When the time comes for you to die, you need not be afraid, because death cannot separate you from God’s love.” ~ Charles H. Spurgeon

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 20:53:00 +0000

I absolutely love this time of year. The mornings and evenings are cool, the sun is bright during the day and all my favorite holidays are drawing near. Our anniversary (yes, it is a holiday!), Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Also, we have a new celebration this year. October 8th. The day I stared death in the face and found that it was not my appointed time to go home. I am thankful that I have more time with my sweet husband and children. I am thankful for God's peace that I felt so clearly and completely during that time. I remain in awe of how God orchestrated the whole event for His glory. God is good!

So enjoy the beauty of this world. Enjoy your family.

“…for “‘In him we live and move and have our being;” Acts 17:28

photography by Hannah Queen

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 23:13:00 +0000

Margot

Hannah caught our boxer, well, being a boxer. They are like children, very curious and into EVERYTHING.

Home School Co-op

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 03:26:00 +0000

Today was the first day of home school co-op for us!! AMAZING!!!

What an a wonderful group of people working so hard to make learning fun and interesting. I feel humbled to be teaching in this environment and very blessed that Sarah and Hayden are able to attend.

I am teaching a class called 'Names of God' to 3rd - 6th graders. These kids are so attentive and appreciative that they make teaching easy. I am excited about sharing the character of God with them and introducing them to the Greek and Hebrew languages along with the culture of the 1st century.

Sarah and Hayden had a wonderful first day and met some great young people. I know this will be a positive experience for them.

Though the picture below is a year old, to me it sums up these two!

17

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 22:28:00 +0000

This beautiful and gracious young lady turned 17 yesterday. 17 years ago she entered this world after scaring her momma half to death. Hers was a difficult birth, but she has since brought nothing but joy to my life.

Sarah is our deep thinker, an old soul with a beautiful spirit. She is creative; we call her our own 'little martha stewart'! Each season our home is decorated by her with garlands, drawings on the chalk board and other assorted homey creations. She already knows how to make a house a home.

Yesterday the boys were camping so we girls celebrated her day with lunch at a local deli, window shopping, a cupcake at The Sweet Shoppe and dinner at Sarah's favorite pizza place. Definitely a girly birthday.

Thank you Sarah for being my wonderful daughter and a great sister.

John 16:21 When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world.

Seeing Gods Hand

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 20:02:00 +0000

Our family is going through a difficult time, as so many families are now. The economy continues to be unstable, prices continue to rise, but I know that our God is never changing and faithful.

Yesterday I grieved, today I see His faithfulness. I have counseled others that sometimes when God wants us in a particular place, the move can be painful. We, in our finite minds, cannot see what He is doing and our faith waivers. My faith waivered yesterday because I couldn't see nor can I see today what He is doing. But, in His faithfulness, He reassures me.

Yesterday, as a family, we determined to walk in faith and continue to be pro active in all areas possible. Today, the Lord has encouraged us and we are thankful and overwhelmed. Is everything great? No.. Are we carefree? No. I'm I growing? Oh yeah.

Today doors were ever so slightly cracked open to give us another glimpse of His faithfulness. The path isn't clear, but we know who is leading the way.

I promise more specifics later. :)

I Corn. 2:5 So that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

James 1:3 Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience.

Blessings,

Road Trip: The Story

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 03:37:00 +0000

This is me and my girls, smiling and relaxed, before two epic storms, a drive through the 'can't think of an adjective' town of Washington DC, a detour through gangland, too many one way streets in Philly, seeing a car upside down, a stop under a bridge due to hail, one hour parking in Philly once I figured out the one hour parking and horns blown at me multiple times and too many people walking across the street without looking!

Yesssss, this is us riding through farm land with mile after mile of corn, silos, cows, small quaint towns and easy driving. We are smiling because we HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IS AHEAD FOR US.

We are enjoying this.

We have NO idea that we will face this.

We encountered two storms that were horrendous. The first slowed us down to a crawl, then from somewhere a wall of water hit us and I couldn't see a thing. My mind working over time to decide what to do when suddenly the windshield cleared. We pulled off the interstate and took a break. The second (see picture above) came off the Delaware River and was equally as frightening. The rain was so heavy with hail accompanying it that we had to pull off under a bridge. There I warned the girls that we could get hit from behind and to be prepared. Nothing like a pep talk from mom!!

While going through Virginia, Hannah decided that we should detour through Washington and see the sights since it had been awhile since we had been there. I (remember smiling face above) thinking what an easy trip, decided 'why not'! I should have said, WHY??!! So, off we go to the land of 'taxation without representation', which evidently makes people touchy and rude. I think they need to plant corn in town and bring in some cows. It would make people nicer.

The White House

The Washington Monument

The Lincoln Memorial

Pinkberry frozen yogurt: Yes, this is as important as the monuments! And it just opened in Washington in May.

The Shake Shack: Evidently as important as Pinkberry and Washington. We bought one burger and fries and shared. Not bad at all, but over hyped if you ask me. Evidently foodies give points for eating here.

still smiling....I don't know, Sarah looks a little dazed.

After seeing a Secret Service motorcade with flashing lights and all, multiple monuments, having yogurt, a hamburger and a good dose of traffic, we decided it was time to head to Philadelphia.

Before getting into Philadelphia, we encounter the storm from the picture above. The wind was blowing leaves, hail was bouncing off the car and people were stopping all over the road. Good times!!

As we arrived in Philadelphia our GPS decided that we needed another detour. We turn, as instructed by the evil thing and see shoes hanging over the wires. (several weeks ago Wm. explained to me that this indicated a gangs territory and not that someone was mad at their sibling) GREAT. And there was NO doubt we were not in the right location. We turn again and there is a policeman arresting someone. FABULOUS. We turned around and made plans to run over the GPS with the car as soon as we had a chance.

Finally we made it to the hotel; a very fancy hotel with valet parking ONLY. (at this point I am reliving NYC, getting out at the Westin) Here we are, everything packed into this VW arriving at this expensive hotel with our drinking cups, snacks, etc.

Fancy hotel room. Nice!

Sweets waiting for Hannah from Terrain in hotel room. Nicer!

While Hannah spent the day here...

Sarah and I braved the streets of Philly. Ok, ok, maybe I am being a bit dramatic, but I am use to driving in Blue Ridge, Ga. If someone blows their horn, it's because they know you and are saying hi. If you throw on your brakes in town, it may be for a chicken. If you want to park, you ride around and find a spot and there is no complicated kiosk to deal with. If you smile, the other person smiles back.

We didn't have a camera with us that day, for some reason Hannah thought she needed hers! We went to the Reading Terminal Market and ate at Dinic's which was on Man Vs Food. The market is all inside and a hub of activity. There is everything imaginable.

We went to the oldest existing Presbyterian church and toured the graveyard. We saw the outdoor Italian market, China town, the library Benjamin Franklin started and went to Starbucks for a break. Venti black tea lemonade unsweet!! YES

NOTE: After an hour or so of the GPS saying in a British voice, "recalculating, take next right (which you can't because it is ONE way the OTHER direction) one gets a bit peeved. I promise you that I detected an attitude in that GPS's voice. "recalculating, recalculating, in .3 miles take next left, take next left, then right". OH MY WORD

Hannah returned late Tuesday evening with a bag full of swag. Terrain even personalized it for each guest according to their interests and what type of blog they did. We enjoyed looking at everything and hearing about her day. Check out her blog post here for all the details.

Sarah and I found a restaurant a block from the hotel that was terrific. It is called Marathon. Amazing!! I had their turkey burger one night and a salad the next. Sarah had hot roasted turkey and a burger. (not at the same time) Everything was great and we sat at the window the second night and watched a mass of humanity go by. And watched bikers run red lights, can you say scaaarrry.

We were ready for wide open spaces after two days in Philadelphia. We headed to Amish country and on south. We stopped in Lexington, VA where Stonewall Jackson had his home. The gardens behind the home were beautiful as was the town. Washington and Lee University is here along with Lee Chapel where Robert E. Lee is buried.

Gardens behind the Jackson home.

R.E. Lee Memorial Church, just beautiful.

Somewhere in all this we went to Bull Run in Manassas, VA. A sobering site. It is so quite and peaceful there, but I kept thinking how loud and frightening it must have been for those soldiers.

Did You Know?
During the war, the North generally named a battle after the closest river, stream or creek and the South tended to name battles after towns or railroad junctions. Hence the Confederate name Manassas after Manassas Junction and the Union name Bull Run for the stream Bull Run.

We had a memorable girls road trip. We sang, laughed, enjoyed every corn field, silo and cow, prayed to make it through the bad weather, made side trips through adorable little towns, ate peanut butter and almond butter sandwiches in the car, plotted against the GPS, collectively panicked in the big cities, hurriedly made change for toll roads, and enjoyed people watching. Truly, good times with my girls!

"In Your presence is fullness of JOY!" Psalm 16:11

Road Trip!!

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 23:16:00 +0000

As a home school mom I have always called them 'field trips'. So this is actually an road trip/field trip. And it is just us girls!! Can I get a woot woot?!

I can't say much about it yet; sworn to secrecy you know. Hannah has been invited by a company, all expenses paid, to a day at their store. BIG TIME, I know. Lunch, spa, networking, afternoon something or another and dinner.

Sarah and I are tagging along to see this historic city and it doesn't hurt that 'they' are putting Hannah up in a fancy smancy hotel in this undisclosed city!

HINT below:

If you guess where, I am give you a prize...or not; but you'll think you are SO smart!

I am so excited because one of my favorite historical people spent a lot of time here. Also, something pretty important took place here.
Do you know yet???

Anyway, there are several places I want to see and there is a huge market there that is suppose to be amazing. Adam Richmond, from Man Vs Food did a show featuring this market and ate a yummy looking sandwich. We are trying this sandwich! Along with another sandwich made famous by this mystery city.

So in a few days, with one big suitcase, in one small car, with GPS firmly stuck to the windshield, we will depart for this girls only road trip/field trip. Also reminding ourselves that if you leave said GPS on the windshield when you get out of the car (anywhere else besides our little town), you must be telling others that 'you want them to have your GPS'. Must remember this...

21

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 18:11:00 +0000

This beautiful and talented young lady turned 21 yesterday. I truly cannot believe that she made me a momma 21 years ago; an event that changed my life forever for the better.

These past 21 years have been amazing, challenging, frustrating and fulfilling. I have enjoyed watching Hannah grow into a confident young woman navigating her way through the world with wide eyes, a camera and a determination to pursue her passion.

Yesterday she requested we go into the forest to a favorite place of hers. It is quite, beautiful and the water is fresh and cool. We set up our tent, chairs, a wild flower bouquet, roasted hotdogs and enjoyed the evening. Of course, she took some great pictures, so take a look at our little corner of the world.

Psalm 78:4
We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.

A Day In Delano

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 01:24:00 +0000

Last October we made a trip up to Delano, TN to the Delano Farm Market that is ran by a small group of Mennonites. Side Note:This was a week before I went into the hospital with the embolism. While we were there I could not breath well, but it wasn't horrible yet and I thought it was walking pneumonia at the time.

We decided that today we would drive back up there and see what vegetables they had. It was busy and they had all kinds of yummy things. Tomatoes, squash, beans, potatoes, peppers, watermelons, cantaloupe, eggplant; they also sell jams, jellies, chowchow and other canned goods.

I enjoyed this trip so much more because I felt great this trip. The weather wasn't terribly hot and there was a slight breeze. We sat outside after we made our purchases in the market and watched customers come and go while 'some of us' enjoyed a fried apple pie that some folks across from the market sell!

The market is not very large, but inviting and quaint. All the signs are hand written and they use non-electric adding machines It is open in the front and sits up above the fields the little community works. Only the married men work in the market and you do not often see the women.

The Delano Farm Market is open Monday thru Sat. 9 to 5. So if you aren't too far away, it is worth the trip.

Berry Picking!

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 15:44:00 +0000

We are so fortunate that where we live has so much natural beauty. We see deer and other woodland creatures daily, along with beautiful mountains and streams.

Another plus are the wild berries that are all around us. The other evening the girls went out to pick some that Hannah is going to cook and swirl into homemade ice cream.

Shout joyfully to God...How awesome are your works. Psalm 66:1,3

Every Young Ladies Prayer

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa) — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 22:06:00 +0000

“If I marry, he must be so tall when he is on his knees, as one has said, he reaches all the way to Heaven. His shoulders must be broad enough to bear the burden of a family. His lips must be strong enough to smile, firm enough to say no, and tender enough to kiss. His love must be so deep that it takes its stand in Christ and so wide that it takes in the whole world. He must be big enough to be gentle and great enough to be thoughtful. His arms must be strong enough to carry a little child.” -Ruth Graham

Ruth wrote these words at the age of 17. I am moved by her vision and commitment at such a young age to the type of man she desired.

This is a beautiful example of a godly young woman with holy standards. I am thankful that my daughters have set these standards.