Least in the Kingdom

Meet Evangeline!

2011-09-23T23:44:00.000-07:00

This poor blog has suffered long enough! College, life, changing interests, and time warps have created a black hole where I used to post in the blogging world. Also I ran out of photo room.

"Evangeline" is my new blog, where I will be posting simple images as I find time. The art of photography, from spontaneous conception to beautiful glowing finish is addicting. Here's a taste of what's to come.

This is a goodbye of sorts to this blog, and a hello to the new! It's been wonderful posting here - look for me on "Evangeline"!

Out of room! Blogging: The Good and the Bad

2011-01-28T21:42:00.000-08:00

All I can say is that it is a good thing I did not make keeping this blog updated one of my New Year's resolutions! I would have been off to a rather poor start...

~In the meantime, Least in the Kingdom has hit some snags. Namely, I've run out of picture space. That means decisions, decisions, decisions... I knew this day would come - a product of having too many blogs I suppose! I could choose to upgrade, or I could choose to move. The truth is, I have almost decided upon moving to a new blog. Its been on my mind lately, I'd sort of like a fresh page, a new outlook as I go through my college years. I'm just hashing this brain process out loud on the page, but a couple reasons would be -

1. I am out of picture space.

2. This blog has been a wonderful conglomeration of all my interests for the last couple years, and its been a lot of fun! But I don't have time to do everything anymore (yeah, like I ever really did!), and the mission God has laid on my heart lately is to write about ideas. All sorts of crazy exciting ideas! About things like how Scripture holds so much relevance in a relativistic society. About the books I am reading for college and how they influence society. About warring and fishing for souls. "Least in the Kingdom" filled these roles but had a more diverse layout, good for recreation, not as good for time-limited posts aimed to incite discussion and interest on specific topics.

3. Its a hard thing. I'm not saying that the only sure-fire way to decide what God wants us to do is to go the hard route, but I think what seems hardest, scariest, and most challenging for us is often the area God intends to grow. I've become "safe" here, in my little corner of the internet world, and I like it. But its not too challenging, and sometimes I've been tempted to just focus on lil 'ole me!

~Blogging has many interesting facets. It can be a great way to have fun with glitter and stamp art without the mess of the glue and ink pads. Through blogging we can connect with other people who share like-minded interests, and get inspiration to use in our "real" activities. But there is another side to blogging that needs just as much attention, if not more, than the pluses. Blogging can be a way of creating an "image", a second chance after a long weary day. It can be an easy escape to fantasy land where we dream about what we "want" to do, and never do anything. I've come to see more and more for myself that blogging needs a purpose. I don't want to have a double identity online, instead I want it to be just another way I communicate the glory of God to others. Its a tool, not a part of "me".

So, with these thoughts in mind I'm thinking about what to do with this new turn in the road! I'll be posting soon with what I work out - the best things about this blog have been the incredible opportunities to "meet" so many of you godly like-minded workers in the field!

Almost abducted by aliens...

2011-01-15T20:59:00.000-08:00

Me, reading Sir Walter Scott. Not an uncommon occupation these days - though unfortunately not always in such scenic settings!

~Wow, as I sat down to write this I glanced at my blogs last post and realized it has really been four months since I dropped off the face of the blogosphere! Crazy, it seems like an age ago, time flew by so quick I scarcely realized how fast it was passing!

~I wasn't diagnosed with a mysterious illness, whisked off to Timbuktu on the dream undercover writing commission, or even abducted by aliens. Nothing that interesting. But I did start college rather suddenly - and that particular diagnosis does eat up an abnormally large amount of time!

~Though I won't have as much time to post as before, I hope that now I've got past the first hurdle I will be able to keep this blog somewhat updated! The focus may change somewhat, its always been a place for me to post about the things that I find interesting, and the thoughts that inspire me, so that will be the same. But be prepared for more "I wonder why there is a character named 'Starbuck' in Melville's 'Moby Dick', and does it have any connection to the coffee house of the same name?" sorts of thoughts, and less Etsy updates. *sniff. I do love Etsy so, but haven't the time to browse its wonderland-ish pages with as much vigor these days. Lists of "favorites" discovered at two in the morning under the undeniably strong effects of caffeine would be interesting to say the least!

Cheerio for tonight! Hopefully I'll have something more substantial up sooner than later!

Even the Thorns

2010-08-28T21:48:00.000-07:00

"Our human hope, it waxeth but to wane,

Hope faileth not that of Thy love is born;

Make hope our habit; blessed love constrain,

Till flowers bloom where now is only thorn."

~Amy Carmichael

I've been tagged! And awarded! So, here's seven random facts about me...

2010-08-26T20:04:00.000-07:00

~I've been kindly awarded the "Versatile Blogger Award" by Michelle from "The Sword and the Rose". For those of you who haven't visited her blog do go see and get encouragement from her many heartfelt and genuine posts in all things pertaining to godliness and our walk with the Lord! Thanks Michelle for your sweet words about my blog, and for faithfully proclaiming the beautiful truths of a relationship with Christ!

The rules are as follows.
1. Thank the person who gave the award to you.
2. Share seven random things about yourself.
3. Pass it on.

~So here goes scary number two, the seven random things about me that you probably didn't need or want to know! I'll try to just write whatever pops into my mind - without carefully constructing an outcome that might look better than it really is!

1. I hate spiders. They give me shivers and squirming sensations like you wouldn't believe! I know its a common condition of female-kind, but, it came to mind!

2. I've had Type 1 (juvenile) Diabetes since I was eight. There isn't a cure so far, so, I'll probably have it all my life. Its been a struggle, and yet, also a blessing in many ways. Through dealing with it from an early age the Lord has taught me so many things I would never have known without this particular trial in my life. I like to think of it as my refining fire, and the process in which he gives me hinds feet that I may follow Him to the heights!

3. On that note, one of my absolute favorite books is "Hinds Feet in High Places" by Hannah Hurnard. If you haven't read it yet, do get a copy! Its worth it...

4. I was born in Guam.

5. I love writing, to the point that if I don't have an active outlet, like a novel in progress, to work on, I start writing the most ridiculous things wherever I can! (Long comments on things, silly status reports, cluttering up poor friends pages and blogs - you get the idea!) Afterward I usually regret my silly outbursts of inconsequential witticisms, and wish I could take them back because I fear people may think I was hamming off or being cheesy. (Which I was!)

6. I have an unreasonable and exaggerated dislike of using "smiley" faces in my comments etc. Its a personal vendetta I suppose, mainly because I sometimes fear our written word is being "dumbified" by society in general! So I went on a strike where smiley faces are concerned. (Along with abbreviated internet slang) Don't worry that I'm judging you for using them though if you do! I have started to see that there are occasions when because of the nature of internet communication smiley faces are rather essential. So I do use them myself now and then. Anyhow, now you know in case you wondering, its not because I'm not a happy person!

7. When I get "into" something I'm really really into it. Nearly obsessed. Then I'm normal for awhile, and then I'm off to the new thing... I think it was more of a problem when I was younger, my family has too many embarrassing stories to count involving my interests, now I am trying to keep a balance in my activities and thoughts! One of my recent interests involved discovering peoples "personality types" , if you'd like to know what mine is - go here, here, here, and here. See, I told you! (And I don't take all the "personality type" stuff seriously, I do find it useful in relating to people though!)

~And there you have it. Seven completely random mostly silly things about me! Now as for naming some other wonderful bloggers to receive the "Versatile Blog Award"...

1. Victoria from "Justice Pirate" and "Ruby Eyed Okapi". Victoria blogs about everything from vintage inspired modest fashion and home life, to inspiring posts about ending human trafficking and encouraging posts about her walk with the Lord. Be sure to check out her blogs and leave a comment!

2. Sarah from "Country Musings" - who is always busy with homey tales about life, writing stories, updates on upcoming events, participating in modest fashion events, hosting giveaways... Sarah amazes me with her gentle and sweet spirit, I've often been encouraged by her posts!

3. Atlanta from "The Story of a Seamstress". Atlanta is a lady of many many talents, her blog constantly inspires me with everything from her sewing projects, photography skills, recipes, talk about life on a ranch... Her versatility and organized purpose on her blog are really special.

~Thanks again Michelle for tagging and awarding me, its been awhile since I participated in a blogging "game"! So much fun...

~Tuesday Treasures: Edwardian Summer~

2010-08-24T19:23:00.000-07:00

~Lovely vintage wicker picnic basket, perfect for those summer outings! For sale by Blue Bicyclette

~Little Bunnies Necklace for sale by Niandra

~Anne Shirley Dress, its Gunne Sax! Look at that collar -all the lovely lace! For sale by kinfauns

~Charming Peter Rabbit Locket for sale by Cosmic Girl

~Aeroglide Boots, for sale by Topsy Design

~Peasant top, I love the details! Also for sale by Topsy Design

~Cross stitch needle sampler pattern - for sale by Shakespeares Peddler

~Sheep and Yarn print, by esoul

~Water colored Roses Apron - For sale by Peasant Cottage

~Leather journal by inblue

~ I think I have an obsession right now with blue, brown, and white. With a dash of pink thrown in there too! After yesterdays "Edwardian Summer" post, I couldn't help continuing the theme!

~Mod Modesty Monday: An Edwardian Summer:~

2010-08-23T15:46:00.000-07:00

~This outfit is by no means authentic, the blouse I found recently for a mere $0.50 at a thrift store, and the skirt is one my mother picked up when we lived in Scotland and has been in the family for eighteen years now. (I have so many fond memories of this skirt...) I paired them together with a parasol, cameo watch, and Edwardian hair style (created with actual "hair rats" and a million bobby pins :), to create a Beatrix Potter feel. And my sister graciously consented to take the photos, even when I came up with the crazy scheme of sneaking into our neighbors yard and taking pictures under their beautiful tree, literally bursting with pink blooms! I wish I knew what kind of tree it is, if anyone has an idea I'd love to know!

~Have a lovely week!

~Fab Gab Vintage~

2010-08-17T13:37:00.000-07:00

~ Don't you love these beautiful vintage finds from Fab Gabs Vintage? The sets are so cute too. One of my favorite Etsy shops right now....

~Mod Modesty Monday: Maxi Fashion~

2010-08-16T14:49:00.000-07:00

~Things worked out so that I could post this week after all! We went blueberry picking last week, what better color to wear than blue? I found this maxi dress last week for $0.50 at a second hand shop, along with several others for the same price. The nice thing about maxi dresses is obviously that they are long and modest! (As long as the top is not too low, try experimenting with jackets and shrugs if that is the case) I'm fair skinned and burn easily, so, I almost never leave the house without a hat, which means I have quite a collection to go with whatever I happen to be wearing. That day I pulled out a simple straw hat and added a fun polka dot scarf...

~Here's a link to my submission on hypeed in case you'd like to go vote! They are having a call for maxi dresses right now...

~Hope everyone has a lovely week! We're enjoying our little dab of sunny weather, a great streak considering Washington's usual record of rainy skies!

~A Life Size Chess Board~

2010-08-13T14:02:00.000-07:00

~We went to the park yesterday and I was excited to check out the "floor" of the playground! All perfect squares in maroon and lime green. There weren't enough people at the time, but, someday I want to go back and play a game of chess with people as pieces!

~Medieval Tournament Part 2~

2010-08-09T20:45:00.000-07:00

~Don't make me draw my sword...

~It was fun pretending to jab at the photographer!

~Yes, I borrowed the sword from my brother and it is a wee bit too large!

~I made the maps a few years ago as a school project. I'm a lady in need of a good map. I get lost in the grocery store sometimes.

~My necklace and earrings from Les Dissonances!

~Companionship on the lonely vigil...

~I decided it was about time I made something for myself after all the sewing I'd been doing for the rest of the family! So I skipped the family pennant (It was going to take too much time) and made myself a pair of "arm braces" and a pouch to go with my dress. I think it turned out more "elven-ish" than medieval, but, it was fun anyways.

~I'll be trying to get some more pictures of the rest of the family over the week!

~A Tournament~

2010-08-08T20:17:00.000-07:00

~We actually made it to the tournament this last Saturday! All of that sewing and sewing and sewing paid off! I especially like the way the "page" hat with its feather turned out! Unfortunately my camera ran out of batteries after a handful of pictures. Such a shame, I was really upset with myself! Fortunately I know there were lots of pictures taken by other people and I hope to get some of them soon! So maybe I'll be able to post more this week. For now I am super busy still, so I'm suspending my regular Monday posts at least for the next couple weeks!

~Hope everyone had a great weekend!

~Twinkle Twinkle Little Star - And medieval battles, swords, and clanging~

2010-08-05T11:11:00.000-07:00

I know I have been pretty bad about posting lately, mainly because every waking moment is taken up with sewing! We'll be attending a medieval tournament this Saturday, so, certain wardrobes had to be re outfitted, and boys who've outgrown their old costumes must have new ones. I'll try to post pictures of the event some time next week! In the mean time here are some photos I took of the sweetest baby in the world not too long ago. I like the effects after I took them into editing. What do you think?

~Pink Balloon~

2010-07-31T11:41:00.000-07:00

~Pictures I took of one of my sweet little sisters on her birthday this last month. Watching little sisters grow up is a precious experience I wouldn't trade for the world!

Celebrate!

2010-07-27T19:44:00.000-07:00

~Currently I'm super excited and happy to announce that I won first place in Hypeed fashion magazines Theme "Farniente: Luncheon on the Grass"!!! (Click here, here, and here to see the pages I'm featured in the online magazine!) I'm sure y'all recall these pictures from a couple months ago...

~Yesterday my lovely prize, all the way from France, arrived! (I'm almost more excited about the packaging than the lovely jewelry!) Care to take a look?

~Many thanks to Sandra, the creator of Les Dissonances, who participated with Hypeed to award such a wonderful prize. I hope to have pictures up of me wearing it soon - I love how delicate it is!

~Mod Modesty Monday, Rummaged Goodies~

2010-07-26T17:02:00.000-07:00

~Can you believe I almost forgot to post again today? Craziness! I've been quite busy with home improvement projects, and sewing costumes for a medieval feast we'll be attending soon, and cleaning up my messy room... These pictures were actually taken way back in February while passing through my Grandma's on our move. My sis and I raided her wardrobe for all sorts of vintage goodies (isn't the hat darling?), and this was one of the rummaged outfits I came up with! A little shorter than I would normally wear (the knee is my cut off point! this was just "at" the knee), but I didn't realize it until I went to sit down. Standing up all is fine, sitting down, well, take heed ladies! All in all once I added the tights it wasn't really too short, just a little more than I usually like.

~Hope everyone's week is starting out well!

~Rose Clippings~

2010-07-24T19:49:00.000-07:00

~Some clippings from our rose bushes outside! Have a nice weekend everyone!

~Randomness and Rainbows~

2010-07-22T09:04:00.000-07:00

~I was reading the other day and noticed a small fleck of rainbow on my lap. It was streaming from a nearby window and looked like it might stay awhile, so, I grabbed the camera and my vintage dictionary (I keep it handy when I'm writing/reading you know!) and flipped it open to the definition of "rainbow". The effect was pretty special I think!

~For the random part of this post I'm sure you've all noticed several things were lacking from this weeks schedule, ahem, Monday and Tuesdays scheduled posts.... Things have been rather busy around here, and my computer was having problems (all fixed now! thanks Dad), so I never got around to posting! Hopefully I can rectify that next week...

~Have a lovely rest of the week!

~School Whimsy~

2010-07-19T21:29:00.000-07:00

~Two school subjects I never cared for, bright colors, and a carpet of light, some fun pictures... Take your dislikes and get creative!

~Croquet in the Garden~

2010-07-15T22:00:00.000-07:00

~A game of croquet anyone? Its a longstanding tradition to play croquet when we visit my grandparents house!

~Batter up, the competition will be somethin' fierce!

~One of these cute little girls beat me - and I'm still gettin' over it!

~Starting the game...

~Hope your summer is as lovely as mine, and may your games of croquet be luckier! We're leaving to go home tomorrow - expect more pictures soon!

Grandma's Victorian Cottage

2010-07-14T08:30:00.000-07:00

~I haven't had a chance to get many pictures of my vacation spot yet - but I assure you, there will be more to come! Above is my "vintage" luggage case, vintage because it was my mothers and before her it was my grandmothers. When I pulled it out of the shed it still had the little red white and blue traveling tag with my mothers maiden name and address written in! Little details that really make me smile - and I added a blue and white scarf of my own to keep it company.

~Front door entry...

~The front of the "cottage", don't you love gingerbread trim?

~White picket fence out front with beautiful red roses. My Grandmother is an avid gardener, she has zillions of flowers all over the place!

~Rose against the sky.

~The corner of the original molding on the porch, still sturdy after 112 years!

~That's all for now! I'll try to find time to get more of the house when I get a chance!

~Mod Modesty Monday, Boating Summer~

2010-07-12T20:58:00.000-07:00

~So here we are, its Monday, and I'm finally getting my post published! if you've noticed some scarcity in posts the last couple days its because I'm vacationing on the Oregon Coast - and I'm staying in a house built in 1898. Lucky me, the house belongs to my grandmother :)

~I thought I'd call this post "boating summer" because this is definitely an outfit I'd wear boating... As it is I have been doing a lot of swimming! Globbing on the sunscreen too - I discovered years ago that I simply don't tan...

~Outside in my Grandmothers lovely flower gardens!

~I'm sorry I can't write and post more at the moment - I promise to be back with more soon! Think lions and tigers and bears, and strange vortex's, and rocky beaches, and swimming pools, yes, life has been wonderful and diverse lately! I'll also try to post some pictures of my grandma's darling little Victorian cottage when I get a chance!

~Hope everyone is having a beautiful summer!

~Simple Things~

2010-07-07T19:43:00.000-07:00

~Mod Modesty Monday: The Alice Look~

2010-07-05T21:13:00.000-07:00

~Somehow, somewhere, for some reason, the fact that I had a post due today slipped my mind! I just realized that today as, in fact, Monday... Luckily I did a photo shoot featuring my dear sister last week, so, here's the pictures!

~This was a purely for fun photo shoot - based on the fact that my sis is quite into the new "Alice in Wonderland" right now! I tried to set up poses and scenes that would give it a fantasy world feel...

~She put her outfit together with all sorts of odds 'n ends, in case you were wondering, we do share wardrobes (advantages of sisters who are approximately the same size!), so, you may recognize a few things!

~I like the way this one turned out, very sunshiny... It was a lot of fun being the one behind the camera! I actually do not enjoy having pictures taken of me, though I try my best to smile :) So, it was great fun being able to trot around the yard in socks (I know, ruining them!), snapping shots of someone else!

~I have the best sister in the whole world! Hands down... Do you have an inner fantasy realm that likes to come out in make-believe photo shoots?

P.S, drumroll please, I haven't forgotten about my promised Edwardian inspired photos, Narelle and I are working on the project, more information coming soon!

Tips for Single Ladies, are you a feminazi???

2010-07-03T11:55:00.000-07:00

~I came across this vintage article a while back, and thought I'd post it for your perusal. I found it one part humorous, one part true, and two parts sad. There was a post done on Pearls and Diamonds recently describing some of the ways we gals promoting femininity can actually relate to feminist concerns - and I'd say this is one of those times. (Click on the link to find out if you are a feminazi!) I doubt either of the camps would take this vintage article seriously, in fact, I find it rather embarrassing! Woman, of all time periods, have felt the need to "catch" a man at some time in their lives. They worry about all the "outward" things they must do to make him like her, and thus the corny, slightly chauvinistic, vintage articles like this one. Take a look and let me know what you think!

~I found these images here. Anyways, have a great week everyone!

~Why I'm Not Saving My Heart For My Husband~

2010-07-01T20:27:00.000-07:00

~This article, written by a young woman named Emily Hipps, pretty much sums up some of the feelings and convictions I've been having over the last year. Her experiences are a little more than mine, but still very applicable to me! Definitely worth a read if you are a young lady striving to seek the Lord in the area of purity of the heart...

Why I am not saving my heart for my husband

As a young girl growing up I had one dream of what I was going to be when I grew up, a wife and a mommy. Yes, I thought I might want to be everything from an actress to an FBI agent at one time or another, but all those things would either take place before or were somehow molded around my dreams of my own family. This dream, as I grew into my teens, was expanded upon to become the direction in which I lived my life. Skills were taught me that would assist me when I had my own family, my homeschooling was directed that way, and I read ‘young women who are going to be homemakers’ books and articles. It was during those early years of my adolescence that I was first introduced to the idea of ‘saving my heart for my husband’.

Saving my heart for my husband was to insure (as I understood it) that when I got married I would be able to lavish upon him all my love, all my emotions, all my commitment, since I had not previously given it to any other suitor. In the mean time, while waiting for Mr. Recipient Of My Heart to make his appearance, I was to have my heart resting with my parents. In other words, until the right guy came along, I was to not set my heart on (give my heart away to) anyone.

With all this information, allow me to create a picture of my future, while waiting for marriage. Here is a girl, 13, 14, 15, 16 years old, waiting for the right one to come along that I can give all my love to. I am not waiting passively either, but learning things that will benefit me when I am married and working my way towards this ‘goal of my life’. At a glance, this seems quite ideal. I mean, who would not want a girl who will love you with everything she has, who is trained to be a homemaker, with no history of other guys you have to compete with, whose first love is you? Like I said, it seems like a picture of what the ‘courtship movement’ talks about. At this point however, please allow me to tell you about a few things that God taught my about this ‘perfect picture’ in the past year.

It started about a year and a half ago in our living room. Dad was sitting on the couch, with Mom, my two brothers, and I around him. He told us that he had been praying that God would make Himself his (Dad’s) only desire, and he was talking about it like it was some sort of spiritual breakthrough. Dad challenged each of us to pray the same way, asking God to remove all other desires and to become our only desire, but at the time I thought, "Not right now". I was 16 years old and as I listened, it seemed to me like a very boring life, to want nothing but God.

My heart was a little different from the ‘perfect picture’ I described above. In my desire for a family of my own, a desire I truly believed was the best of all professions for women; I had been keeping my eyes open for Mr.-I-can-give-my-heart-to. Prompted by my parents, as well as magazines and such, I made a list of character qualities that I wanted in a husband and even started a notebook, occasionally writing letters to ‘my future husband’. All this was done in expectation that some day the right one would happen along. The serious problem for me lay in making sure he was the right one. Already I had experienced what emotions could do to me in how I could suddenly ‘like’ someone in a way I couldn’t explain. Thoughts of, "What is going on here?" would soon change to me wondering, "Is this the right one? Could it be that he is the one God picked out for me?"

This process of wondering if he could be the one was perfectly justified. I was in a sense taught to do this. Articles to girls my age seemed to point out that there was one for me, and that I needed to be prepared to be able to tell which one he was. My parents sometimes would ask me what I thought about different young men, what good/bad qualities I saw in them, trying to teach me to be observant. I soon realized though, that if I ‘liked’ someone, I really could not be very objective in my judgement of their character. This concerned me because I imagined a courtship scenario of me trying desperately to think and pray around my emotions so that I would be able to discern if this was Mr. Right.

Of course, I planned on my parents being a big help. They would be able to tell me if he was really a bad pick when emotions had obscured my vision, and if he really was a good guy, they would be able to note that as well. Still the idea of having to be the one to say "yes" really shook me up. What if I listened to my emotions by accident and I ended up with a bad choice and ruined my life? What if the nice young man I said yes to turned out to be uncommitted, fell away and became a drunkard, leaving me penniless and with a bunch of kids to raise by myself? I prayed many times that when the time came God would make it so clear that I would have no questions. Oh, and by the way, neither would he (Mr. Right), or my parents, or his parents, just so that we would be really sure.

By sixteen I was getting closer to the age when I was going to have to start deciding who the right guy was (or was not) and I already had a few candidates I was watching to see what they were made of. A family of my own was my deepest desire, and, of course, a major part of that was a husband. Into this heart of mine, set on marriage and as many children as I could have, came the challenge to ask God to become my only desire. Maybe you understand a little of why I balked. Not only was my heart full of desire for a husband, but I also wanted other, smaller ‘side things’ such as clothes, good looks, a ‘cool’ status, etc.. So, at first I said no to this challenge.

A few months later I found myself in California, sleeping on the living room floor of some friends of ours. We had gone on a trip and were visiting for a few days. I remember thinking hard during that stay about what was going on around me. What my eyes were seeing was what I wanted to have, a happy marriage, several young kids, and it all run smoothly with lots of love. At first I looked at the wife and thought to myself, "Yep, this is it, this is what I want. I want a man who will come in the door at night and kiss me hello. A man who will put the workday behind him and play with our kids. I want to answer to "Mommy" all day long. This is what I am living for."

Yet, as I looked on, God opened my eyes to something. I realized that what I desired from their lives, the same thing I had always desired from watching my parents lives, had nothing to do with who they were with or what they were doing. It was joy. It was the joy that comes from serving the Lord with all your heart and living for Him. As I watched them, I realized that they lived that way, Jesus first, and the challenge that my dad had given came back to mind. Slowly I softened and gave in. I began, hesitantly at first, to pray that God would take away all my other desires and make Himself my only desire.

Now, imagine it being almost a year from that first day on the couch, and so many things have happened that I could fill a whole notebook and never be done. Now my heart is much different than it was when I first started to pray for God to become my one and only, and God has been true to His promise to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him. The task of removing my desires has started, and although not complete, on its way. Now I am realizing more what it means to love God with all my heart, to be consumed with a desire for more of Him. God had shown me that I needed to gain my fulfillment from Him; that He is the One who never changes, who loves me like no one else could. (Psalm 18:31) As I asked God to become my one and only desire, He also became my one and only source of fulfillment in many ways. I discovered that His love was all that I really needed. It was for Him that I desired to live, His will that I desired to take place, His kingdom that I wanted to come.

One warm day I was out on a walk and started praying. "God," I said, "Something is bothering me and I need to talk to You about it. You see, all my life I have dreamed of getting married. I’ve planned for it, prepared for it, expected it. But now that I am trying to give You all my love and my heart, I am not really sure if I can even get married. You see, if I get married, then I will be pouring all my love into a man and living for him instead of You. Can someone who loves You with all their heart ever get married?"

As I stewed over this question, I could not make sense of it all. Yes, Paul seemed to agree with my conjunction that it was better not to marry (1 Corinthians 7) and I had often heard testimonies of people who served God single and were pleasing to Him and content. (At the time that I heard these, I had put singlehood as something I would do if I had to, but, well, I’d do my best not to get stuck there!) However, God was the One who invented marriage in the first place, and after all, if it were not for marriage, I would not be here. Even Paul in 1 Cor. 7 said that he who married did not sin, but he who did not did better than the one who did marry. Who would want second best? Yet, could marriage really be second best if God designed it? Could only non-Christians get married? As I pondered this, God opened my eyes to see that my first problem in understanding this was my idea of marriage.

My idea was two people pouring themselves into each other, working hard to make the other feel loved, needed, appreciated etc… I realized that this view of marriage put the emphasis on the wrong thing, on the people involved. The point of this type of marriage is to bring pleasure and fulfillment to the people who are taking part in it.

As a Christian, as someone who is seeking to love God with all their heart, our purpose in life is to further God’s kingdom, to bring His desires to pass, not our own. (Matthew 6:10, 33) Nothing we do should be done for our sake, but out of obedience to God. (John 15:4, 10) God’s view of marriage was vastly different than mine. While I had envisioned two people working to please each other, God showed me that His idea was two people working together to please God. God did not make Eve to make Adam feel good about himself or loved or wanted, God made Eve because Adam was better off with her than without her. God showed me that the best way for me to love someone is to love God first and foremost, and to love that person as an outpouring of my love for God. Having my eyes focused on God and living to please Him will lead me to obeying His command to love. (1 John 5:1-3, John 15:9-12)

Loving my husband would thus be an outpouring of my love for God; my love for God always coming first. It does not take away from the love (living 1 Corinthians 13) that I would give my husband by loving him out of a love for God, but rather adds to it. My love would be a godly love, directed by God’s Spirit rather than a love that I would work at in my own strength. Suddenly it started to make some sense to me. I envisioned two people, both fixing their eyes on God and living to give Him glory, working better together than alone.

Yes, God in His sovereign power could decide to make a person who could serve Him best alone. This person might be able to do things a married person could not, and would be better off without a mate. However, just as easily, God could make two people who could serve Him best if they were together. Together they would be able to pray towards the same end, work the same mission, encourage each other to keep pressing on, raise godly children for the glory of God. Their purpose in life would be the same as that of a single Christian, to obey God, only they would be working at it together. They could be ministry partners, obedience to the Lord partners, faith partners, helping each other along, and thus better than either would have been alone. (Ecclesiastes 4: 9-10)

When I saw this, I was very excited! Yes, someone can love God with all their heart and be married! But, not if marriage is what I had originally thought; the purpose of marriage had to change in my mind first, for this to be true. Putting all these thoughts together, I realized that two things which had seemed separate actually brought me to a glorious conclusion. If my job in life was to obey God, and marriage was doing that same thing with a partner, and God knew what He wanted me to do to bring His plans about, then I only had one reason ever to marry. Out of obedience to His direction. Now I was free from my concern of "how will I know if I am getting a lemon or not?" I did not have to concern myself with it at all. I needed only to concern myself with obeying Jesus Christ, and if the time comes for me to marry, He can say, "That is the one, now is the time," to us both, and we only need to obey. God knows all things, and He has a plan for my life. I need to obey Him so that His kingdom will come.

No, I am not giving my heart to any young man that may come after it, but I am not saving it for my husband either. I am giving it all to God, because it is with Him that my heart belongs.

Emily Hipps
(Article used with permission from Bethany's blog which can be visited here,)

In Christ,

~Ship in a Bottle~

2010-06-30T13:45:00.000-07:00

~Life has been incredibly convoluted of late - or maybe its just my brain. Its like being trapped in a big bottle (you know, the kind that has a little sail boat inside), peering out the narrow hole at the wide wide world outside. Too many decisions, too many factors. Through it all the comforting thing is, I am NOT the master of my fate, or the captain of my soul. Christ is. And He's steering me heavenward - one stormy wave at a time...

~Trapped, but safe.~

~The illusion. Can you see it?

~Freedom~

~My Captain is Christ. My Compass is His Word.~

~Sailing Heavenward~

~Tuesday Treasures: The Fourth is Coming!~

2010-06-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

~Take a look at these amazing 4th of July inspired finds! Oh to own all the goodies (especially the red pumps and darling dress!).

~Vintage 1970's Striped Summer Dress for sale by JessJamesJake

~Primitive - Olde Glory - Handstitched Americanan Linen by stitchinthedayaway

~FLAG DAY PARADE 8 X 10 PRINT ON VINTAGE DICTIONARY PAGES by Winterberrycottage

~Independence Day Pinwheel set of 2 by Rule42

~Vintage venetian red leather pumps by AdrianCompanyVintage

~Fabric Covered Button Hair Clippies by ChloeBellaStudio

~Star Stud Earrings in 14K Gold by michellechangjewelry

I hope your week is "glorious"!

~Mod Modesty Monday: Rachel from A La Modest : And a Sneak Peak of Something Special!~

2010-06-28T09:40:00.000-07:00

~I am very excited to present to you today, Rachel of A La Modest! I've done features of modest clothing websites, and outfits I've come up with, but this is my first time to feature another modest fashion blogger!

~Don't you love the choice of pallete, textures, and interest Rachel wove into this outfit? From the scarf, to the oh so perfect hair-do, to her chunky bracelets and peep toe shoes, it oozes beauty and femininity! I also find the way she tucked her belt end out instead of in to be quite interesting, it never struck me before, but, it creates yet another tone - that matches with the shoes.

~Interested in seeing more? Visit Rachel's blog and go read her lovely story behind the website!

~In other news, do you remember me mentioning a while back that I was going to be doing a post or two with Boutique Narelle? Well, here's a small sneak peek at what I've been working on!

~Have a lovely Monday!

~How to Put Together a Patriotic Table Centerpiece~

2010-06-27T14:47:00.000-07:00

~I'm starting to get in the mood for firecrackers, and barbecue, and lawn chairs, and patriotic songs. Yeehaw for my favorite summer holiday! (Oh wait, its kind of the ONLY big summer holiday - here in the states anyways!) And its just around the corner...

~Things may be a little Fourth of July crazy around here for awhile, not only is it one of my favorite holidays, its one of my favorite holidays to decorate for. So I thought I'd do a tutorial on this wonderful Patriotic themed table centerpiece my Mother put together last week! As you can see in the picture she started with a glass cake stand, probably bought at Costco. You can use whatever sort of plate/book/bowl/board/tray you like. Just something to rest your pieces on!

~My mother and I have similar interests, and right now we're both in love with pails. But she was in love with them first :) She found this lovely red pail no too long ago, and for the centerpiece filled it with clipped roses from our garden. (Pictures of that to come soon!) You can use whatever kinds of flowers are available to you, daisies would be a nice touch, or hydrangeas, or other colors of roses -though for a patriotic theme red, white, or blue, are best!

~Next find some pretty doily's, napkins, and whatnot, to put under the pail. If you have interesting blue and white china, or other patriotic looking dishware, stack and arrange them around the pail. It fills out the bottom and adds nice visual interest.

~We found this AMAZING handmade card at an antique store last week, and it looks cute perched among the roses, propped against a flag for support. If you have a patriotic post card, sign, or any other possible paper craft ideas you might come up with, add it to the medley. The more the better!

~Don't forget the flags! Most craft and hardware stores sell these small dowel rod American flags around this time of year! We took two and stuck them in on either side of the pail. This is great if you have a really long table like we do (ten people to seat at every meal!), but if your table is small you might go for one flag. Or two smaller ones.

~And ta da! You have your super duper amazing patriotic display, bound to impress the neighbors! (*wink) This idea could be taken and used for any national holidays, if you live outside the US just switch the flags for your own country's - and plan the coordinating colors appropriately! (Or if you live in Britain, just switch the flags. The colors are the same :)

Have a happy week preparing for the Fourth!

~You know its bad when you realize a dog is better lookin' than you~

2010-06-24T23:29:00.000-07:00

~But at least their some pretty good lookin' dogs, and the wallpaper is too charming to be real! I want to move in right away... Photography by Winnie Au

Hope you enjoyed!

Devoted Love: Adorning Your Heart Part 4

2010-06-24T16:13:00.000-07:00

~There are so many beautiful qualities in Scripture, its hard to pick and choose what to talk about this week. Mostly I've just been writing about what comes to mind, what is on my heart at that moment. And for some reason I've had devotion and love in my thoughts today.

Devotion - the act of devoting, devotion of time and energy, the fact or state of being ardently dedicated and loyal...

~Are we dedicated to God? We've talked about the importance of staying close to God through reading His word - but what else can be said for the heart commitment of steadfast devotion. Do you want to read a heart wrenching story of devotion, the likes of which I can only pray would be given to me in such a situation?

"The young, brown-eyed girl looked up at her mother. What would her mom decide? Earlier that morning, the young girl’s mother, their pastor, and twenty-six others in her North Korean village of GokSan were bound and taken before a screaming crowd of Communists. One of the guards ordered Pastor Kim and the other Christians, “Deny Christ, or you will die.” The words chilled her. How could they ask her to deny Jesus? She knew in her heart he was real. They all quietly refused. Then the Communist guard shouted directly at the adult Christians, “Deny Christ, or we will hang your children.”

The young girl looked up at her mother. She gripped her hand knowing how much her mom loved her. Her mother then leaned down. With confidence and peace she whispered, “Today, my love, I will see you in heaven.” All of the children were hanged. The remaining believers were then brought out onto the pavement and forced to lie down in front of a large steamroller. The Communists gave them one last chance. “Deny this Jesus or you will be crushed.” The Christians had already given up their children; there was no turning back. As the driver started the heavy piece of equipment, the singing from the villagers started softly. “More love, O Christ, to thee, more love to thee.”

More. It’s what God gave when he sent his Son. More. It’s what Jesus gave when he was crucified. More. It’s what believers give simply out of love for Christ. They want to give more to the One who gave so much to them. In a worldly age that values giving only what one must to get by, believers set a new standard. “More love to thee” is more than just words in a traditional hymnal. It’s a lifestyle without limit. Each day is a path of discovering how to give more love to Jesus Christ. For some believers, this path has led to their death. For others, “more love to thee” has meant financial sacrifice. What does “more love to thee” mean to your everyday life?" Extreme Devotion, Voice of the Martyrs.

~This was devotion of the kind only God can give in times of extreme testing, and by His grace they passed the test. These dear brothers and sisters are resting in the arms of Jesus, where He wipes away every tear from their eyes. How much easier it should be to have devotion to God in our everyday life, with our everyday decisions, than to face death for our beliefs. Yet we so often fail in the little things, the little tests. And one of the hardest of those things is love.

“‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ " Mathew 2:37-39

~In John Pipers book "Desiring God" he describes love in two ways. One, is vertical, between us and God. The other is horizontal, between us and man. He goes on to say that horizontal love between people is an extension of the vertical love between God and us. "Love is the overflow of joy in God that gladly meets the needs of others". Gladly. Meets. Overflow. Joy. All words from the heart - we cannot love others if we do not love God. We cannot meet the needs of others unless our needs have been met in God (not going elsewhere to be fulfilled). To be able to love our family, friends, unsaved neighbors, strangers on the street, we must first have a heart that loves God. And a heart that loves God is devoted to Him.

Love - warm attachment, enthusiasm, or devotion. Unselfish loyal and benevolent concern for the good of another.

~Love and devotion seem to go hand in hand. We cannot truly say we love someone, unless we are concerned with their concerns, enthusiastic for their joys, sorrowful for their woes. When we love someone we cannot sit idly by when they are in need. We want to meet that need, we want to share what we have - even if it is little. At least, this is what love should look like. Unfortunately we do not always share the love God has poured into us with those in our lives.

~There are so many different facets of love, ways love can or should be expressed to others, and types of love, that I'm not even going to attempt to list them all here. Its simply beyond my insufficient mental powers to imagine the entire scope of ways that love can affect us in our walk with the Lord. I know it has saved me, as it has saved every child of God, I know that it continues to work in me; sanctifying me, challenging me, pushing me, overfilling my cup so that I must share it with others. In narrowing it down I think I know one area that many of us could relate too, and I certainly know I can!

Love for those who are difficult to love.

~This is a toughie. Its not easy to love someone who is simply unlovable. (Another issue is that the problem is often us!) But "more love to thee" in our daily life may very well be extending the love God gave to us - while we were still sinners.

"But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8

~Last night we were reading together from Luke 15, and after reading the part about the Pharisees complaining that Jesus was eating with "tax collectors and sinners", we stopped to discuss the Lords reply. Jesus told three stories about finding lost things, a shepherd and his sheep, a woman and her coin, and a father with his son. Each of them, shepherd, woman, and father, did not sit idly by - they searched for, they ran to meet, the lost one. Why? Because that thing was valuable to them, they treasured it. How much do we value the unlovable people in our life? They may be lost, they may be going through a time of sin, but do we try to reach out and show them Gods love?

~I think one of the biggest problems in learning to love others, is that we value ourselves more than them. Our priorities need to change. We need to value their joy, their comfort, their happiness, the same as we value our own. In fact, that should be key to our joy. Here's an interesting response Jesus gives concerning the joy even the angels have when a sinner repents.

"I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance." Luke 15:7

~The angels find joy in repentant sinners. God finds joy in repentant sinners. We should find joy in repentant sinners. And if we want that joy, we seek after it by loving the unlovable, and extending the same to them that we are overflowing with from God. Here's some pointers I came up with for myself.

Don't walk away when I see the unlovable person coming

Spend more time praying for the needs of the unlovable person

Be initiative in starting conversations

Practice gracious speech, if necessary "rehearse" this in my mind

Remind myself of my own failings as a sinner, and cultivate gratefulness that God loves me

Wear a smile, as much as possible, instead of a frown, when talking to them (This goes a long way dealing with siblings that like to annoy!)

Make sure I value them, by listening to their interests, and taking time out of my day to show them I care

Eat with them - ask to join them when I see they are alone

~All these are good in theory, but, may take lots of time and consistent practice to see any fruit. If ever. We are not called to love people only if they love us in return; regardless of whether or not the unlovable person ever comes round we must continue to display another adornment - patience. (Not going into that one right now!) Love is displayed by affectionate devotion, and concern. Which brings us full circle. Devotion and love to God should spill over in devotion and love to each other. Love is one of the greatest spiritual gifts, if not the greatest.

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never fails...And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, 13
In Christ,

Content with the Paint on My Ceiling: Adorning Your Heart Part 3

2010-06-23T16:29:00.000-07:00


~SPLAT, I watched a goopy glob of paint narrowly miss the corner of my eye, landing on the collar of my well splattered paint clothes. As I looked down from my precarious perch on the top rung of a tall, rickety ladder, I once again decided that ceilings should be left alone - as much as possible. Re-painting is dangerous.

~Then a thought struck me, how often have you heard the phrase "The Skies the Limit", or even, "Reach for the Sky"? In a sense we should be achievers, we should be diligent and always looking for new ways to glorify God in what we do. But in another sense, and feel free to comment if you think otherwise, I feel that these terms can also be used to imply that there are no heights we cannot reach if we do not set our minds to do it. The truth is, we cannot do anything without God, and there are some things we cannot do, or change about our lives, because its not in His plan. And that's where contentment comes in.

~To continue my story, there I was painting the ceiling of my moms bathroom. We'd grown tired of the old gold colored paint, and to be fair, it was in need of a fresh coat. I was happy with the new color she'd picked out, a really lovely pale lavender. There really isn't a case for discontentment here - but I thought, do we ever grow tired of the color of our ceiling in life?

~ I think sometimes we just want change. We itch for it. We think of ways we can improve our situation, ways we can get more of what we want. There are healthy desires, and there are unhealthy desires. The trick is knowing when to push up into higher, perhaps greener fields, and when to step down, into the valley, and walk where God has placed us at the moment. Perhaps its in the very act of surrendering our desires for more, that God shows us we have all we really need. We don't really need that pay raise, we don't really need a new car, we don't really need those perfectly darling but rather expensive shoes from Target, and lets not mention the fact that the icecream shelf in the freezer is getting bare. What we need is a sustaining, Christ glorifying, relationship with God.

“It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’” Mathew 4:4

~Contentment is about more than material things. In fact, I think my biggest problems with contentment are not what I'm wearing, or where I lay my head at night, but dreams and plans for the future. I want to do this someday, I want to be a stronger christian, I want to be looked up to in my community, I want to marry a godly young man, I want to have a family of my own someday, I want to be something more. Its good to want good things. And I think the majority of us really do desire good things. But Gods timing is not always our timing, and if we become so obsessed with the future that we loose the joy of the present, then we are turning our desires into idols.

~A woman who is content is glorifying God. She proves to others that God really is enough for her. Her heart is fixed on Him. He is, after all, our ultimate treasure. Once again, this is helpful in our witness to others. Because the world really is never content. It has a gnawing, empty, hole in its stomach - which refuses to be filled no matter what manner of things it throws at it. One by one the treasures of the world turn out to be only chaff, which will be consumed by fire. But she who has found true contentment in the Lord, will be satisfied no matter what her lot in life.

~Contentment is defined as an uncomplaining acceptance of one's share. Here are several areas that can breed discontentment; worry, greed, and envy. I'm sure there are more, these are just a start! I've broken down the individual areas below, with some verses to pin point how we should really respond.

When we are not content because of worry.

“Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?
“So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." Mathew 6:26-34

When we are not content because of greed.

"Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and certain into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." 1 Timothy 6:6-10

When we are not content because of envy.

"Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we may boldly say:

“ The LORD is my helper;
I will not fear.
What can man do to me?” Hebrews 13:5-6

~Thanks for reading - I've been greatly encouraged by your responses and find fresh determination to seek out the better things of God in my life! Its all for His glory...

Innocent as Doves, Wise as Serpents: Adorning Your Heart Part 2

2010-06-22T13:10:00.000-07:00

"The purity that counts for most in your life and mine is purity of heart... There is a rest of spirit, and a quiet confidence, a joyfulness, and a perfection of love and peace in the heart of the one given over to God that cannot be described in words... Every one who will seek God with all his heart, who will draw close, may have this experience of a pure heart." Mabel Hale, Beautiful Girlhood

~Lately I have been contemplating the relationship between knowledge and innocence. How many times have you read something on the news, which may have been quite intriguing in the moment, and later felt convicted of having allowed something trashy to enter your mind? Or watched a movie that had even more than the usual set of problems? Or perhaps allowed an acquaintance to "fill you in" on the nitty gritty details of some other friends life - which you probably didn't need to know?

~These are obvious examples of times when we step over the line of "need to know". What is much harder to discern is the fine balance between "living in the world, but not of it".

"I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world." John 17:14-16

~One of the finest adornments a heart can have is purity. This is because in a world so spoiled by sin, greed, lust, hate, bloodshed, unchecked violence, and anger, the purity and innocence of Gods children is a great light. It speaks of the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts and points to the promise and hope of that day when all shall be made new - the day all creation groans for! God loves a pure heart and desires that we seek after it as a precious jewel when seeking adornments for our hearts.

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." Romans 12:1-2

~The renewing of our minds. What a term brimming with meaning. Notice that it says renewing, not renew. Its an ongoing process in our lives, a part of the sanctification process. We will need to be constantly on guard against letting impure influences enter our thoughts. We need to valiantly defend our innocence from things that are evil... At the same time we need to be wise in what is good, as well as the times we live in.

“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and innocent as doves." Mathew 10:16

~It is interesting that we often only seem to focus on the negative side of things, asking ourselves the question - "Is this bad?" Instead it may be more helpful to ask ourselves - "How will this edify me? Will this strengthen my desires for Christ?" You will be amazed at how much clearer decisions can become when we look at issues in a positive light. It will cut out a lot of questions, or harmless "neutral" stuff, that we really didn't need to spend our time on anyways. Of course, I'm not saying we can never watch a movie, or read a book, or go shopping at a store for that matter, unless it is distinctly christian and definitely going to produce some positive fruit in us. But our overall focus in life should be to produce good fruit, by glorifying God in all that we do. Chances are if we let ourselves hop over to the neutral zone too much, that may be what we become, neutral in the war for godliness.

~Here's a little list I've drawn up of areas where we should be especially careful to guard our purity, and our innocence. Save your exposure for times when we really must confront evil, and overcome it with good. Why dwell unnecessarily on things that will confuse, distort, taint, and otherwise clutter up your mind, all for the sake of entertainment? We live in the world - we have to battle with impurity every day. No soldier wants to leave the battlefield, come home weary and tired, only to fight another battle on the couch with his entertainment!

Movies

Books

Magazines

News Articles/Websites

Music/Radio

TV Shows

Blogs

Friends/Acquaintances
Random Quizzes and Games on Facebook, or any website for that matter! (I know, its sort of a funny thing to add, but its true that these can sometimes be big distractions and sources of useless information!)

~Another benefit in seeking purity of spirit is that your witness will not by hindered by inconsistency or accusations of hypocrisy. The other night we were all gathered for family devotions and I watched as my mother patiently explained an important spiritual truth to my seven year old brother. He was having a very hard time concentrating, in fact, he looked like he was about to burst out the seams! All the while my mother kept talking in a very calm, patient, manner - hoping to settle him down. Finally, unable to contain it any longer, my brother politely inserted - "Excuse me mom, but, your pants are on inside out!" We all looked at her pants, which were indeed, on inside out. Needless to say, the rest of the devotions was a bit lost in hilarity!

~ In a similar way inconsistency distracts those we are witnessing to. Its like watching a very devout man give what must be a very devout sermon, but his clothes are all upside down and backwards. No one can hear what he's saying because he's just so ridiculous... At best the world finds inconsistent Christians funny, amusing, maybe a somewhat tolerable kind of pal. At worst they are affronted, justified in their opinions about "religion", and label Christians hypocrites.

~Resolve to seek out influences that will edify and build you up. Resolve to set aside influences that will destroy your innocence and purity. God will be pleased!

~Here's a list of some blogs, websites, and online ministries, that have encouraged me in thinking pure thoughts - and in doing away with unedifying influences.

The Rebelution
Issacharian Daughter
Pearls and Diamonds
Beauty From the Heart
Joyfully at Home
Young Ladies Christian Fellowship

~Resolve to follow the Lord while it is still today! In Christ,

~Hold a Mirror up to your Heart: Adorning Your Heart Part 1~

2010-06-21T09:33:00.000-07:00

~A loud, rather annoying, buzzing sound, penetrated the groggy edges of my semi-conscious mind. Out of pure instinct my hand went up and came down "SMACK" on the top of my little alarm clock. It was 7 AM, time to get up, time to get moving, time to start the day. A little more sleep, a little more slumber, my body groaned, and then I remembered - I had an appointment with my Doctor at NINE, just two hours away!!!! Out of the bed I leapt, stumbling over yesterdays shoes (which never seem to find there way back to the closet), dodging a stack of laundry, slipping on my sisters sheets and extra pillows which always end up on the ground before morning (she's a messy sleeper!), until I reached the door. Then I darted down the hall, around the corner, and scooted into the one kids bathroom just in front of my brother who really needed to get ready for work. Ha ha - I beat him! Then I looked in the mirror.

~Now this post could be about any number of things. It could be about laziness, oversleeping, messy room habits, considering others needs and feelings above ones own, or even the unattractive trait of developing a nasty long standing grudge against ones alarm clock. (I hate the sound of that thing...) But the focus of this post is actually about mirrors.

~As a young woman I spend a considerable amount of time looking in mirrors, whether its to decide if I like a certain color on myself, or if a shirt is too low, too tight, too blah. I casually glance in mirrors as I pass them throughout the day - checking my hairdo, tucking that stray end back into place, adjusting my clothes. And something tells me that there isn't a young lady alive who hasn't once or twice stared deeply into her reflected eyes wondering about all the deep unanswerable unspeakable questions in life. (Or maybe you have a reflection friend who lives in a glass pane like Anne of Green Gables :) In other words, mirrors are a pretty useful tool in life.

~That morning I prepared myself for my appointment (with the more than usual routine of shower, hair products, choosing an outfit after long and careful consideration - I'm picky when it comes to doctors offices, finding the perfect pair of shoes - comfortable but also smart, makeup, curlers, etc...) and actually made it to the appointment only five minutes late. But this post isn't about tardiness or vanity. Its about mirrors...

~Something I realized recently is that there is more than one kind of mirror. There is the kind that hangs on the wall in various shapes and sizes, which faithfully reflects the absolute facts about our appearance (Good and bad, sighs...). And there is the kind that can't be seen on the wall but which just as accurately reflects the inward condition of our heart.

~That mirror is called the Word of God. It shows us the condition of our souls, it convicts us when we sin, and it offers a picture of what we will be one day in our glorified bodies with Christ. In another way what is inside of you reflects you. Your heart is your own mirror as well- it shows what and who you truly are to others.

"As water reflects a face, so a man's heart reflects the man." Proverbs 27:19

~Sadly, we do not usually see our own reflection. And we often deny it when other people approach us with a picture of it. This is because the heart is deceitful, proud, full of its own thoughts and desires. Which is why we so desperately need to turn to Gods Word for a "heart check" to get a true understanding of ourselves, and a true reflection of where we stand in need of correction. To quote Fireproof, "You can't just follow your heart - you need to lead your heart". Where? To Gods Word. This is the mirror we need to look in daily, and that requires daily effort on our part. Its a process of developing consistency in the most fruitful habit you could ever devote yourself to.

~As I prepare to launch this series of posts on "adorning ones heart", and particularly todays post, let me confess something. I am not the christian I would like to be. I'm not even close. I've failed to remain consistent in my habits, time and again I realize I've slipped into my old ways once more; neglecting to read Gods Word every day, forgetting to pray for the growing stack of prayer requests slipped between the pages of the Bible I forgot to read, speaking in a harsh manner with my siblings, feeling resentment towards my parents when they ask me to do something I "just didn't feel like doing" at that moment. But God in His grace has been faithful to me, as I know He has to you if you are His child, setting my feet back on the path whenever I stray. These words are as much, if not more, to myself, as to any readers out there, a little journal of thoughts on the heart from a sister in Christ.

~In summary for today - I realized that before I could even think about some of the things one should adorn ones heart with, I needed to be able to see that heart. The only thorough reliable way to do that is in the Bible, with prayer, asking God to show me my weak areas. Every person will look a little different in their sin areas, and needs as far as different virtues goes, so, the next four days will just cover some basics. (You can work on specific trims and ribbons yourself :) The following verses are ones I found useful in seeing the state of my heart and my need to develop consistent habits in my reading of Gods Word - I hope they are encouraging to you as well!

The state of our hearts;

“ The heart is deceitful above all things,
And desperately wicked;
Who can know it?

I, the LORD, search the heart,
      I test the mind,
      Even to give every man according to his ways,
      According to the fruit of his doings." Jeremiah 17:9-10

The power of Gods Word;

"For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Hebrews 4:12

God Knows the State of our Hearts;

"If we had forgotten the name of our God,
Or stretched out our hands to a foreign god,
Would not God search this out?
For He knows the secrets of the heart." Psalm 44:20-21

God convicts us through the Power of His Word and Spirit, He does the work of creating in us a clean heart;

"I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek." Romans 1:16

"Create in me a clean heart, O God,
And renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from Your presence,
And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me" Psalm 51:10-11

Our Response;

"How can a young man cleanse his way?
         By taking heed according to Your word.
With my whole heart I have sought You;
         Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!
Your word I have hidden in my heart,
         That I might not sin against You." Psalm 119:0-11

~Until tomorrow then, in Christ,

Day 5 - Modest Fashion Challenge

2010-06-18T10:08:00.000-07:00

~I know that I must have gone to bed and smacked my head against something last night, because I'm completely loony to be putting these photos of me in my grandmothers jumpsuit online! The truth is, I love jumpsuits, rompers, overalls, and all sorts of one piece pants/shirt combinations! (Much to the chagrin of some of the members of my dear family.) But I know not everyone does, so, if this was a little too odd just disregard it as the "interesting" but truly ridiculous attire of one young lady on one blog in one corner of the blogosphere!

~I actually took these pictures awhile ago, and never got around to posting them - just so you know! And I'm sorry they don't have some sort of flower in them. (I remembered after the first post that I was supposed to do a flower! Oops...)

~Well, this is the end of Samantha's wonderful fashion week! I really enjoyed myself looking at all the other young ladies entries - which were inspiring and marvelous, and its been fun sharing a bit of my wardrobe with others too! BUT, don't go anywhere because....

I've decided to do a five day posting marathon on the subject of inward beauty next week.

~It's important to be well adorned in spirit, as well as modest feminine attire - and as I was thinking about this last week I thought, "Wouldn't it be fun and encouraging to do a week of posts on the heart now?" That way I cover both areas in my life - the outward and the inward. Its been so much fun "linking" up (literally!) with many other young ladies online through this, and I've "met" some really lovely girls, lovely in spirit and attitude, which got me contemplating the fact that I wish I knew some of you "for real". But even while thinking this I know that we have a common bond, our faith in Christ. So even if we never meet in person - we can encourage one another in our relationship with the Lord by what we say and write on our blogs. (And I have been encouraged this week as I not only looked at your outfit posts, but browsed a bit into your past posts and saw some truly lovely examples of girls in love with their Savior!)

~So, in conclusion, I'm going to try to do a series of posts next week (Lord willing, if I have time!) on "adorning the heart". I hope to include links to blogs, posts, and websites, that have encouraged me in this area, as well as some thoughts of my own, and perhaps a few "artsy" pictures to compliment the topics addressed :) If any of you want to join me, whether its by leaving a comment or doing a post of your own, I'd be delighted!

~I hope you've had a wonderful week! And that you have a wonderful weekend!

~Day 4: Modesty Fashion Challenge~

2010-06-17T01:19:00.000-07:00

~Today's outfit is comprised of a simple sleeveless jumper I sewed myself last summer, an optional light sweater, large floppy hat (completely depending on whether or not I wanted to be more dressy!), a cameo watch (Walmart), and pearl hair clips (also Walmart). I also wore cream high heels, but, somehow neglected to get them in one of the pictures? Silly of me...

~My hair-do is actually deceptively intricate. I put my hair up in sponge rollers for the morning, and then after taking them out simply pulled back the sides and clipped in place to get a good shape from the front. (Leave a few bits out if you want, or curl under your bangs) Then I haphazardly tucked and pinned up the rest with a handful of bobby pins. The wonderful thing about curls is that it really doesn't matter if they flip about, they still look great!

~Day 3: Modest Fashion Week~

2010-06-16T10:10:00.000-07:00

~The wild wild west...Okay, so, it was only our local creek - and though we live on the West Coast, its not the wild west! (If I had taken these while in Texas now...) My Dad bought me my hat when we visited the Grand Canyon a couple months ago - and this was its first official "outing" in the sun. I love wearing button up shirts, especially tucked in with belts! The only thing that was missing to complete a true wild west ensemble was cowgirl boots, but alas, I am still on the hunt for that perfect pair...So sandals were a good summery substitute!

~Day 2: Modest Fashion Week~

2010-06-15T10:29:00.000-07:00

~Today's outfit was one of those "comfy" loose shirts and skirts combos to wear around the garden, and just relaxing at home... I found both second hand - one at a thrift store, the other at a rummage sale! So the price came up to around $3. The shoes were also second hand - I love the little heart print on the inside! Sometimes its the little surprising things that make life as a girl so much fun, I wouldn't trade those sweet girlie secrets for anything! (Something about knowing the inside of ones shoes are pink, or have hearts, makes the day more chipper...)

~Till tomorrow! (Hint: Dream of cowgirl hats.)

~Day 1: Modest Fashion Week~

2010-06-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

~Hello readers, this is myself, Leopold our cavalier pup, and my elsewhere mentioned polka dot scarf! The focus of this weeks challenge is modest femininity, a value that is highly underrated in today's culture. By dressing in attire that reflects womanhood - we are reaffirming the difference between men and woman, that we were created equal, but with different roles in life. By dressing modestly we show that we care about the men around us and keeping their thoughts where they should be - on God and each other as brothers and sisters in Christ. We are also honoring Gods commands to adorn ourselves with a quite spirit, not one that flaunts itself.

~Here's a standing view of today's outfit - I was feeling very vintage inspired! The skirt I picked up for $1 at a church rummage sale, in perfect vintage condition! Quite a steal right? I also found the scarf there - and instantly envisioned the two together.

~Some time ago I fell in love with T-straps, but, alas, had none. So imagine my delight to find these the other day at a local thrift store for $2! Amazing, and just in time for this post...

~Scarf detail~

~I love the way this one turned out, I actually got him to look! Poor dog - I'd just woken him up from a warm little nap, and he was pretty groggy for most of the shots!

~We headed outside for the final shot - and I once again failed to get Leopold to look at the camera! He looks like he is falling asleep here, but, he's actually distracted by things such as cars and b.a.l.l.s. (Which are his major lifetime obsession! I wonder if all Cavaliers are obsessed with small round things?)

~Thanks for looking! I'll be seeing you with more tomorrow! (Though with less pics since it won't be combined with my own Mod Modesty Monday post!) If you missed out on the announcement for this weeks festivities - go here to find out. Or you could check in at Simple Delights.

Why would I want to look like a man?

2010-06-11T14:36:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of Kiss the Groom

"Why do women want to dress like men when they’re fortunate enough to be women? Why lose our femininity, which is one of our greatest charms? We get much more accomplished by being charming than we would by flaunting around in pants and smoking. I’m very fond of men. I think they’re wonderful creatures. I love them dearly. But I don’t want to look like one."
~Tasha Tudor

~The Art of Photographing Laundry~

2010-06-09T20:48:00.000-07:00

~I love a clean stack of spring laundry - don't you? There's something so cheerful about those jumbled florals, delicate laces, perky bows... It makes me want to go do some more!

Announcing Modest Fashion Week

2010-06-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

~I haven't had time to do a post on this yet, but, some of you may have noticed the above banner in my sidebar! Yes, the title is fairly self explanatory, and yes, you can click on it yourself and go figure out what its all about! But I just wanted to post about it anyways...

~Starting next Monday, and through Friday, I'll be participating in an online Modest Fashion event being run by Samantha over at Simple Delights! So, basically, next week is going to have more pictures of outfits at one time than I've ever posted on my blog before! Bear with me - and I hope we'll all have fun! Each day I'll try to upload some photos of what I'm wearing for that day, and I'll link it to Samantha's blog...

~Here's a couple changes that will happen due to this. Firstly, my Monday post will be combined with my Monday outfit challenge, but, it won't make much of a difference. Also next weeks Tuesday Treasure post will be canceled - to make more room for that days outfit!

~On the note of fashion, and photo shoots, and general spring madness, I've also been conspiring with another enthusiastic fashion blogger friend over in New Zealand. We are tentatively planning on doing a post/ couple of posts together, sometime this July! She will be providing all the tips and handling the writing end of things - and I'll be sending her the photos. It looks like its going to be a lot of fun!

~So, as you can tell, things are about to be quite busy around here! There are so many other events I'd love to participate in ("Thrifty Chic" Modest Fashion,) check them out for yourself! You may just want to join in...

~Tuesday Treasures: White is the Thing...

2010-06-08T14:56:00.000-07:00

~This Tuesday the theme is white. There is something so pure, so sweet, so calming, about the color white....

~White Eyelet Dress for sale by My Sweet Chickadee

~Jane necklace for sale by Cujo931...

~Crochet PATTERN (pdf file) - Ladies Milky Slippers for sale by monpetiteviolon (I want to get this and make hundreds - I go through slippers so fast!)

~Cream, grey and white hair flower for sale by mignonnehandmade (If this isn't one of the most amazing hair pieces you've ever seen - I don't know what will be!)

~Well, that's all for today! Remember, if you sell things on Etsy and would like me to include something of yours in these posts, contact me in the comments, I'd love to feature you on the blog! This is a great way for those with online entrepreneur businesses to support each other. I do ask that your "wares" for posting be appropriate, modest, and not likely to give offense to others! On that note I do not always know or approve of everything else in these sellers Etsy shops - I am only featuring one of their items. So use discretion when viewing! (Go here to read more about Tuesday Treasure posts...)

~Mod Modesty Monday - Take a road trip with Christa Taylor~

2010-06-07T11:46:00.000-07:00

~Its "almost" summer and summery things are on my mind. Here are some pictures from the lovely website Christa Taylor - a clothing line started by a young lady with a passion for creating modest alternatives to the clothing one often finds on the racks today... Be sure to go check out their newest additions!

~Unfortunately the hat is not for sale! But isn't it darling?

~Scarves. Its time to start wearing head scarves when traveling I think!

~This is the Coconut Jan dress in white... Wondering why its called "Coconut Jan"? Go here to find out.

~B.I.G. over-sized glasses. And that polka dot scarf... I actually have a polka dot scarf, you should be seeing pictures of it soon...

~I really hope you go check out Christa Taylors amazing vintage inspired dresses! Also, for the curious, Christa has a blog called the "Empowered Traditionalist". Its worth checking into as well! Have a lovely Monday!

~Tea Time with Flour Sack Tea Towels~

2010-06-04T15:23:00.000-07:00

~Its been a couple days since I last posted - and to tell the truth I've been incredibly busy! But here are some pictures I took of our "tea room" this morning, and especially some little white flour sacking "tea" towels we picked up at Walmart yesterday... They are adorable as they are, and I could just leave them alone, but I've decided to do some embroidery magic with my machine over the next couple days. I'll try to post pictures of the finished project when I get a chance! If you are ever at Wallys swing by the kitchen department and take a look at these towels, they come five in a pack for $4.50 - a great price!

~Tuesday Treasures~

2010-06-01T13:38:00.000-07:00

~Its Tuesday and here's my Etsy finds of the week!

~1940s to 1950s Light Pink and White Cotton Candy Stripes Day Dress for sale by Adelines Attic

~Were you fooled? These aren't Apple Strudel Bon Bons- there soap! For sale by the very talented

sun basil garden

~Unique Floral Lace 1960s Wedding Dress for sale by The Crumpet Closet, go see the other pictures!

~Fudge Popsicle Earrings- Polymer Clay - made by Samantha at emariecreations, absolutely delicious looking, and when I took a look at her shop I couldn't resist adding the following as well! So adorable...(Thank you for contacting me Samantha! Your creations are lovely!)

~Rustic Ruffled Polka Dot Brooch made by Samantha at emariecreations

For those of you interested Samantha has a tutorial on her blog on how to make these charming fabric flowers!

~Thanks for viewing! Go here to read about Tuesday Treasure posts...If you sell things on Etsy and would like me to include something of yours in these posts, contact me in the comments, I'd love to feature you on the blog! This is a great way for those with online entrepreneur businesses to support each other. I do ask that your "wares" for posting be appropriate, modest, and not likely to give offense to others! On that note I do not always know or approve of everything else in these sellers Etsy shops - I am only featuring one of their items. So use discretion when viewing!

~Mod Modesty Monday: A Spring Wedding and Cabbage Roses!~

2010-05-30T22:59:00.000-07:00

~Last Friday our family had the pleasure of attending a friends lovely outdoor wedding! Unfortunately it was a rainy day - not what one hopes for on their wedding day. However, knowing the fickle weather up here, the bride and groom had huge white pavilions set up to shelter their guests while they said their vows. Very convenient and much appreciated!

~I decided to spite the rain and general gloominess of the day and dress as though it were sunny! My large sun hat helped with the rain, though I am sorry to say that my bravery did not last the whole day - before long I had to pull out a coat to ward off evening chills...

~I particularly love this dress - something about the fabulous way it is cut makes me want to dance! I found it last year at a thrift store in Texas (vintage), and have only worn it a few times. It seemed like a good day to pull it out, spring weddings and floral seem to mix...

~I don't know if you can tell from the pictures, but, the waist is diamond shaped.

~Here is a closer detail.

~We actually forgot our camera the day of the wedding (and were quite disappointed with ourselves because of it!), so these pictures were taken afterward in our garden. We have a beautiful cluster of wild rose bushes that were only a few feet tall when we moved away, and now they are taller than me!

~Here's a close up of some of our cabbage roses first blooms. These peach ones are my favorite, and we are about to have hundreds! Of all the roses Cabbage Roses are my favorite, they grow as big around as a fist and have what I like to call "cottage appeal".

~Until next Monday then! Tip of the day: don't be afraid to look like old hollywood material - its still glamorous and uber feminine no matter what time you live in! If you are daring and brave, try a pair of gloves and a long scarf - not the knitted kind, the kind that goes "swish". And if you really really want to be counter cultural, you needn't dye your hair blue or get a tattoo, just find yourself a giant floppy hat!

~Etsy Treasures - Tuesday Treasures~

2010-05-27T20:39:00.000-07:00

~I've decided to do a post once a week with my favorite Etsy finds! That way I can share with the world some fascinating, and truly unique, treasures, that deserve recognition! (For those of you who do not know what "Etsy" is - go here to read about it! Or just take my word that its the bestest greatest most amazing online community ever created for those trying to sell their handmade/vintage wares!)

~If you sell things on Etsy and would like me to include something of yours in these posts, contact me in the comments, I'd love to feature you on the blog! This is a great way for those with online entrepreneur businesses to support each other. I do ask that your "wares" for posting be appropriate, modest, and not likely to give offense to others! On that note I do not always know or approve of everything else in these sellers Etsy shops - I am only featuring one of their items. So use discretion when viewing!

~Also, you may have noticed the title Tuesday Treasures, normally I'm going do these posts on Tuesday - but couldn't wait to start! So this is early... And if you couldn't tell already, I like to schedule "days" for things!

~And now, without further ado, here are my Etsy finds of the week!

~A darling vintage hand mirror for sale by zam goods, all the way in Israel!

~Crocheted lacy wrist warmers cuffs - made by hypericum fragile

Red and White Striped Swing Party Dress - for sale by audrey and grace

~Vintage antique brass stopwatch Necklace - made by japonicas

~ vintage boaters straw hat - by secret lake

~I'll see you with more treasures on Tuesday! And please, please, don't hesitate to contact me if you want to be featured!

~Shabby Apple Dress Giveaway!~

2010-05-26T19:12:00.000-07:00

Go here to enter a lovely Shabby Apple Dress Giveaway!

~Take a Dive into Anne-Girls world! Anne of Green Gables Exclusive~

2010-05-25T16:34:00.000-07:00

~For those of you who haven't already, you simply must must must go take a look at this post over at the "Vintage Baroness". (And here is another link to a comprehensive list of the film locations - very interesting!) Its all from the perspective of a lady who is actually standing in the exact locations "Anne" did for the film! Simply lovely museum pieces from the Edwardian era too. Expect a treat!

Meanwhile, here are a few photos from the film... I now feel the urge to go watch it for the hundredth time...

~I'm so glad I have an old chest now, I love old chests...

~One of Anne's amazingly beautiful dresses. These movies have some of my favorite film costumes of all time!

~Pearls~

~Anne and Gilbert. One of the most endearing romances of all time, hands down!

~Mod Modesty Monday: Katherine Heigl Fashion and Rescue Dogs!

2010-05-24T12:05:00.000-07:00

So here we are, and its Monday again! I can't believe how fast time seems to fly by these days. I really wanted to do a tutorial on "Boho braids" this week, but, it didn't fit into my schedule! It'll keep for next week perhaps. Today I thought you might like to take a look at some pictures of a recent photo shoot Katherine Heigl did due to her passion for rescuing dogs... What you say? Take a look.

~What I found most amazing is how comparatively modest her gorgeous, vintage inspired, outfits are! Isn't that green dress amazing? I love all the full skirts and cinched waists, very 50s I think...

~I've been inspired by these photos and recently watching "Young Victoria", I'd like to do a photo shoot with our dog some time...

~Gardening~

2010-05-23T22:53:00.000-07:00

~I finally got the pictures from our gardening the other day - it was a whole lot of fun! (And work!) It helps when the weather is so clement.

~Most of them are of Joel, and a couple of me in the strawberry beds. We set Joel up on the lawn in his playpen - in my humble opinion he is far too cute for his own good! We set him on the lawn afterward where he found a dandelion to be fascinated in...

How I love Thee Lord: Irresistible Grace

2010-05-22T19:50:00.000-07:00

~Sometimes its hard to believe just how much we can love someone we've never seen. We have never seen God. I mean, we've seen Him at work, we see Him in answered prayers. We see Him in other Christians lives, we see Him in His beautiful creation. But I've never placed my fingers in Christs scarred hand, the hand that took the nails one by one in my stead. I've never seen with my eyes the face of my King. But I love him.

~This in and of itself is a work of God - a beautiful work done in the heart of every person He draws to Himself.

~I find the doctrine of irresistible grace to be one of the most profound and beautiful things Gods Word holds. Think about it carefully. I once heard a pastor describe it with the metaphor of a bucket of water deep in a well. God doesn't just call us to Himself, He doesn't just do the work in our hearts to enable us to even accept his call, He drags us every step of the way to our knees at the cross. Its like a bucket of water deep in a well - we have to lower the bucket, fill it with water, and drag it, hand over hand, to the top. So when I say "How I love Thee Lord", I am only giving back to God what He put in my heart in the first place.

~Some days I feel that I have "fallen for God", head over heels in love with my Savior. Everything He does is beautiful, everything He does is more than enough for me. Then there are days that I am empty, cold, frustrated, and feel alone. I complain, I gripe about life, I worry about what God may have in store. Even so He draws me back to Himself, convicting me, changing me, showing me how truly purposeless my life would be without Him. Even as His grace is irresistible in salvation, it is irresistible after salvation when we stray. And this in itself is comforting. That He shall never leave nor forsake me, that He will finish what He began.

"And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion atthe day of Jesus Christ." Philippians 1:6

~So take time to rejoice in the joy of Gods love, love that He has given to us and that we then offer back to Him! Here are some verses that have been on my heart to get you started, they are words to make our own...

"He brought me to the banqueting house,
      And his banner over me was love." Songs of Solomon 2:4

"Oh, how I love Your law!
         It is my meditation all the day.
You, through Your commandments, make me wiser than my enemies;
         For they are ever with me.
I have more understanding than all my teachers,
         For Your testimonies are my meditation.
I understand more than the ancients,
         Because I keep Your precepts.
I have restrained my feet from every evil way,
         That I may keep Your word.
I have not departed from Your judgments,
         For You Yourself have taught me.
How sweet are Your words to my taste,
         Sweeter than honey to my mouth!
Through Your precepts I get understanding;
         Therefore I hate every false way." Psalm 119:97-104

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written:
“ For Your sake we are killed all day long;
   We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”

Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:35-39

"Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:1-4

"Your steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens,
   your faithfulness to the clouds.
Your righteousness is like the mountains of God;
your judgments are like the great deep;
   man and beast you save, O LORD. How precious is your steadfast love, O God!
   The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
They feast onthe abundance of your house,
   and you give them drink from the river of your delights.
For with you isthe fountain of life;
   in your light do we see light." Psalm 36:5-9

~♥ ♥ Peaches and Cream ♥ ♥~

2010-05-19T19:51:00.000-07:00

~All the above, excepting the "doily clutch", are recent things I spotted on Modcloth. Perfect for spring... The doily clutch I saw on Etsy a while back, and thought it was just such an adorable idea! I want to try to make one sometime...

~Chatsworth House - do you remember Pemberly?

2010-05-18T14:03:00.000-07:00

~Perhaps I'm just behind the times, but, I recently discovered the actual location for Pemberly in BBC's Pride and Prejudice. "Chatsworth House", in the "Peak District", in, of course, the UK. So I won't be jumping on a bus to go take a stroll through the lovely grounds of Pemberly any time soon! But one can dream right?

~If any of you visitors from the UK have been to this heavenly looking place, don't hesitate to speak up! I'd love to know if it is as lovely as the pictures suggest...

~Here is the official site - http://www.chatsworth.org/

~Mod Modesty Monday, Depression Era Hobo Meets Edwardian Era Lady~

2010-05-17T15:06:00.000-07:00

~This Monday's post is going to depart slightly from its usual focus, meaning, its more about the general idea of "loving vintage", and less about a particular outfit. A few days ago I went "Hobo-ing", which essentially means I gathered up all my most treasured possessions and pitched a pavilion on the lawn, much to the amusement of the neighbors. I was just feeling so inspired by all the sunshine and this magazine.

~It only took me half the afternoon to drag tree branches into place, drape them with vintage tablecloths, heft a heavy chair missing one leg from the trash heap (It has such character don't you think? I wish I could save it, but, its seen its day...), and then decorate with all sorts of darling things...

~I think the neighbors probably had a good laugh behind their fence, especially when the lady hobo of the establishment appeared...

~Since I was using old tablecloths to screen me from the sun, it only seemed fitting to wear the dress I sewed from a vintage tablecloth last summer...

~To the dress I added a blue and white striped shirt, tied around the waist...

~And my new fob watch necklace...

~And this wonderful old "Don Anderson" hat I picked up at a thrift store last week! I wish I knew more about dating hats - I'd love to know when this one is from...

~Those who know me are aware that I have a serious commitment to green apples, no other apple compares!

~Gloves are excellent for concealing all the little scrapes and cuts a lady inevitably picks up while building her own tent out of spiky tree branches!

~Hobo Laundry - I love the way this one turned out!

"For what do we live, but to make sport for our neighbors, and laugh at them in our turn?"
-Mr. Bennet, Pride and Prejudice. I know mine were entertained at about this point!

~After all that "Hobo-ing", a lady needs a break!

~Well, it was fun times and some great memories. I spent most of the rest of the afternoon with Joel under the tent, and he loved it! He ate a whole bowl of applesauce and cooed at all the pretty things.

~In other news I've been thinking about the whole "Mod Modesty Monday" thing I've started, and wondering if its really beneficial? I don't want to encourage the wrong things, overly focusing on clothes and appearance for example, and I don't want to come across as vain or frivolous myself! I'll probably do a post asking for your thoughts later in the week. For now I just need to think and reevaluate the purpose of this blog!

~Till next time, have a lovely week!

~Fob Watches, Lace, Corks, and other Odds 'n Ends ~

2010-05-14T17:53:00.000-07:00

~Well, I've had an eventful day! Spent the morning at a church rummage sale - where I found all sorts of odd, outdated, antique, and marvelous things...I think my grand prize is a tiny fob watch necklace, perfect in every way!

~Then I came home and built a pavilion out of tree branches and lace tablecloths, which Joel and I spent the afternoon under - hidden from the bright sun. Since the forecast is sunny I'll leave my little tent up - and take pictures tomorrow!

~And now I'm sitting next to an open window, breathing in some more fresh air, wearing an old painters smock, and thinking about my next novel. In other news, our cabbage rose bush is about to burst into a hundred white blooms. I think a cup of tea is in order...

~Grace Kelly~

2010-05-12T21:19:00.000-07:00

~I know its been said many times, many ways, but, Grace Kelly had amazing style. I love how the clothes she wears accentuates her face - it draws the attention to her lovely eyes and adorable haircut... Not a common trait with fashion anymore!

~Mod Modesty Monday, a Fashion Boutique called Ruche~

2010-05-10T20:32:00.000-07:00

~This post was a little late in the coming, Monday evening to be exact! Still, better late than never!

~Meet Ruche, an online shop of modern vintage inspired clothing. Got to their website and check out what they have to say about themselves! Before I launch into the many wonderful things this unique shop has to offer, let me point out that they do not make a point to sell modest clothing. They do have some modest clothing, or clothing that could be made more modest if paired with the right things, but, they do sell allot of short skirts etc... That being said, take a look at some of the things I fell in love with while perusing their shop!

~Not only do they have some adorable vintage inspired pieces, like this vest, they also have darling sets! Look at the way they papered the wall with old book pages and made shelves out of books! Great inspiration...

~Ruffles are timeless, classic, feminine, and did I mention I love ruffles?

~I love the combination of color, profile, and textures, in this set. High waisted skirts are just about as vintage as you can go, and still look completely in tune with reality! (Unlike hoop skirts I'm afraid, only wear them to costume balls and reenactments please!)

~Take a look at some of Ruche's amazing vintage inspired jewelry! I love the locket necklace, and bird bracelet. Do you see the lace applique looking necklace on the right? How creative! I've been seeing allot of these lately, maybe I'll try making one someday...

~High waisted pants. Bow on shirt. Equals classic.

~For all you hat haters out there, I'm afraid a good hat will never go out of style. Join me in my cause for hats, and while we're talking about the subject, how about gloves? (We'll talk about that in my next Monday post!)

~I'm not particularly interested in wearing an Alice in Wonderland ring around, Alice was never my thing growing up! A bit too much nonsense I'm afraid... But the ring is sweet, and I thought some of my readers might like to know Ruche carries a good deal of "Alice in Wonderland" inspired jewelry.

~Ah, now, this is a bit more up my ally! I actually have a pin very similar to this - maybe I'll do a post on my pin collection sometime!

~And finally, here is my favorite of all the Ruche necklaces, its called "Don't Forget to Write Back". Isn't it unique?

~Next week I hope to be able to get out and take some new pictures if it's sunny enough - otherwise inside ones will just have to do! Have a lovely week!

The Gospel Will Not Be Chained

2010-05-09T17:56:00.000-07:00

What gives you hope? What gives you joy? As Christians do we live with a sense of defeat in our hearts, or of victory?

These days we are faced with a multitude of discouraging events and happenings as the world increasingly chooses to go its own way down the path to destruction. From the horrors of a child being ripped piece by piece from its mothers womb, to the despair of those who commit suicide, murder, and robbery, to the lies of the teachers in schools who give their students corrupt lessons - denying the sovereignty and creative power of our God; we stare at defeat and despair every day. Often Christians are blamed for the problems in society, we are the ones who will not just "get on the bus" and go with the flow. We oppose the supposed "right" of a mother to abort her baby, we cry out against socialist practices that threaten to tear down this land, once based on Gods laws, and bring into its place an iron curtain that cannot veil the abominations it hides. In this hour it is comforting to know that Gods word, His precious gospel, will not be chained!

"Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel, for which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains; but the word of God is not chained." 2 Timothy 2:8-9

Gods Word is not just another book written by adherents to just another sect. It is not just a handbook Christians can use to understand how to "live a good life and go to heaven". Gods word is alive. It is inspired by the Holy Spirit Himself, it is sharper than a two edged sword, piercing the heart in a deeply convicting and ultimately rewarding, or damming, way. You will not walk away unchanged, you will not walk away unchallenged.

More and more as I come to understand parts of Gods Word I realize that as Christians we can fall into the trap of treating it flippantly. We only go to the Word when we want something, an answer to a problem at the moment, a verse for a debate, a guilty conscience, or even proof of something we always believed but never took the time to fully establish for ourselves through careful prayer and study of scripture. How many of us are faithful to daily reading of Gods Word? How many of us want to know God on a personal level, treating scripture as a means of understanding Him better, hearing His desires for our life? I know I've failed time and again in this area, and time and time again He has been faithful to renew a thirst for His word in my heart. Make no mistake, it is God who gives us a longing for His word, we cannot desire it on our own.

So I ask you, how much time do you spend in the gospel that cannot be chained? The Word contains everything we need to know about God, everything we need to live victorious, joyful, and free, in a world of bondage, oppression, and fear. It is better to be chained in body by those who oppress the truth, than to be chained in spirit without it, and through Gods Word, we can be free.

~To be, or not to be, Eliza Doolittle?~

2010-05-07T19:38:00.000-07:00

~Most of us have probably seen Audrey Hepburns film "My Fair Lady". Long ago I fell in love with the films delightful music, witty banter, lovely costumes, and of course, the timeless Audrey playing "Eliza Doolittles" character with such spunk and charm.

~So imagine how flattered and intrigued I was when a dear family friend asked me to "play" the part of Eliza Doolittle in a charity fundraiser next month! Of course my first inclination was to accept, but, it is being held one state over and would be a bit of a drive, so, I am not sure. Still, if it works out, what a wonderful opportunity! My duty's would be to "dress" the part and sing Eliza's song "Wouldn't it be Loverly" (with a microphone, oh horrors and nervousness!) while handing out prizes...

~To be, or not to be? I'll update later on the final decision!

"The difference between a lady and a flower girl is not how she behaves,
but how she is treated." - Eliza Doolittle (Audrey Hepburn)

~A Ladies Jacket ~ Mod Modesty Monday ~

2010-05-02T10:46:00.001-07:00

~My grandmother came up for a visit last week, and we were able to take her to "The Little Red Barn". Just a local snuggery of creamy goodness in the form of melting ice cream over blackberry pie a la mode...To get up our appetites we perused the antique shop next store, and believe me, we took our time! Afterward I stepped out on the smallish sort of wilderness that surround the Little Red Barn, and took the following pictures.

~The dress is one I made myself last summer, perfect for hot weather. As I no longer live in hot weather, in fact, quite the opposite, certain adjustments to the outfit had to be made. Namely the addition of a jacket and vest.

~When going for a casual dressy look, almost boho chic, braid your hair to the side in a messy "boho" braid. I pinned a small crocheted rose to the band when I was finished...

~If you ever want to try something unusual, pair the flowy lines of a floral spring dress with the stiffer look of a ladies business jacket. It really creates an interesting contrast... I haven't pinned down the name for this style, or the era it hearkens from, but I know I've seen it allot lately. (Online that is...Unfortunately no one cares to dress like this in my neighborhood!)

~The shoes are a recent thrift store purchase, brand new Bongo's with at least a four inch heel. Ouch. Yes, I wore these out and about, but, lets say they won't become a regular part of my wardrobe! You may have noticed them in the last post, they became a part of the room decor the moment the walked in the door!

~I love mixing and matching florals, this purse almost has a "carpet bag" appeal to it, which was the look I was going for.

~No, I did not stick my thumb out for a ride. I know some of you were wondering...

~In other news I've been working on something new, yet old, exciting, but worrisome. But I'm not telling yet...

~I love Suitcases almost as much as I love old Books~

2010-05-01T15:20:00.000-07:00

~Put them together to create magic...

~blue and white stripes are wonderful with empty frames~

2010-04-28T22:04:00.000-07:00

~Mod Modesty Monday~ A UK company!

2010-04-26T12:16:00.000-07:00

~Today's post is all about a UK clothing company called "Cath Kidston".

~I accidentally stumbled across their website last week, and fell in love with the sweet styles and surprisingly modest clothing they offer. (I personally think the above dresses are too short, but, many of their things are below the knee, or could be made more modest with a short pair of leggings!)

~Here's a few pictures of what they offer!

~The sets are amazing as well, so much spring inspiration!

~Don't forget to check out the "Shoes and Wellies" section!

~And the fantastic bags...

~They also have a wide range of rather "uncommon" accessories, like handkerchiefs! I was amused to find, in this online UK store, a "cowboy hankie" print. Who would have thought? (far left)

~They also had cheerful umbrellas for the rainy days...Whoever invented the drab gray and black umbrella anyways?

~Oh, and, their home accessory section was adorable as well! I can't stop drooling over these darling tea sets!

~Cath Kidston also offers all of their cute fabric for sale by the metre...So, if you've been waiting for that "perfect" print, search no more!

~So, go check out the website for yourself! Right now they are offering a free magazine (I've already ordered mine!), or you can view the online magazine here. Its so much more than a store catalog, its a fun pamphlet of pictures, ideas, tips, and, of course, interesting UK stuff!

~Altered Book, Pride and Prejudice!~

2010-04-24T21:22:00.000-07:00

~Some of you may remember a little project I eluded to several months ago, something I was doing with an extra copy of P&P. (Come on, we all know we have extra copies of Austen lying around!) Until now I hadn't gotten around to taking pictures of the progress, so, here's what I promised!

~Meet my latest altered book! My new sewing machine, with its fancy embroidery options, really came in handy designing the cover...

~All it took was a hardcover copy, a square of fabric large enough to tuck under the sides, glue for decoupaging the fabric to the cover, and embellishments. The best part was the embellishing!

~Lace, lace, lace...And stickers, and scraps of fabric, and, of course, an embroidery machine. So much fun!

~Here's a close up of the back! (In case you were wondering, yes, these pictures were taken on a chair in my new room. More of that to come soon!)

~As you can see, altering a book consists of ripping out pages, gluing the pages you have left together, and creating a sort of "grown up" board book! Its really so simple, just make sure you have a book with a good spine! But enough of the cover, lets move on to the pages...

~The thing I love about altered books is that you can literally do anything you want. There simply are no rules. Keep playing with your page until it looks right to you. The materials that can be used are endless.

~Some of the things I used inside this book are:

:Various pieces of scrap booking paper (an obvious and basic step in the right direction!)
:Craft Paint, for the hand painted roses you see and page washes.
:Ribbon, Lace
:Cut out Quotes and Illustrations from the book I was altering
:Buttons
:Stickers
:Vintage Paper Dolls
:Stampers
:Tissue Paper

~Some details of the title page. I wanted to theme the book around the story...But you can do whatever you like, write your own story!

~The second page...I love the way the gold paint brushed on lightly lets the words still peek through!

~"I could more easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine."

~Here are the vintage paper dolls I pasted in, they aren't from Jane Austens time era, but, I thought they had the right "look" together. You can almost imagine the wearers look of disgust as they each alternatively survey and ignore the other!

~I added a verse I found rather appropriate!

~These are the last pages I had time to complete before the move... I was just getting to the good part!

~Let me know if you have any questions about altering books! I'm a newbie to the art myself, and must confess, it is rather addicting! There are some great websites that offer advice on choosing books and themes, as well as amazing pictures, so do a search!

~A wee peek at what I've been busy with...

2010-04-23T19:51:00.000-07:00

~More to come soon!

~Mod Modesty Monday~

2010-04-19T16:53:00.000-07:00

~Well, busy though we are with moving in, I've somehow found time to put together this little Monday post. (Guilty sigh!) Enjoy!

~Winter is leaving and Springtime is in the air! While dipping into my grandmother's fascinating wardrobe I came across this cute Hawaiian print dress and adorable pink tea hat. Put the two together was the next obvious step!

~Here's a take on how you could duplicate this style, making the polyvore image larger increases blurriness (not sure how to work that out yet!) but you can click on the link to view the set in detail...

~This Modcloth sun dress is simply lovely in the details...Personally I would add a little length with leggings or sew in an extra ruffle.~

~Anyhow, until next week!

~Sew Love Vintage, a new treat for your blog!~

2010-04-19T16:37:00.000-07:00

~ I know its been quite awhile since I last shared a piece of blog candy, so here's one I just created!

~This is for all of us vintage loving sewing people out there!(Created at the amazing website, http://www.scrapblog.com/, check it out for yourself!) Feel free to save the image to your computer, and then upload to your blog sidebar! It is already sized for most blog formats, so, don't check the "resize image" box! Let me know in the comments if you have trouble!

~A Shabby Apple Dress giveaway over at Lemondrop Vintage!~

2010-04-17T22:31:00.000-07:00

I just stumbled across a unique blog called "Lemondrop Vintage" - which is hosting a Shabby Apple dress giveaway! The giveaway closes April 20th, so be sure to drop in and leave your comments before then if you want to be entered to win this lovely dress!

~Falconry on the mind~

2010-04-15T22:16:00.000-07:00

~I've always loved the idea of owning a falconry. There's something that spans time and space about a falcon on your wrist - about to take flight for the hunt! Having that special bond with your bird of prey, trusting it to return to you when the day's done...

~Okay, so its a dream, but I think more than one of us wishes, if ever so slightly, that we had been born in a castle in Scotland half a century ago!

~A Mod Modesty Monday Post, not on Monday!~

2010-04-14T21:28:00.000-07:00

~Today was a grim day, a foreboding day, yes, it was a Doctor visit day. I really detest visiting Hospitals, I know they are there to help people, but, I always connect them to needles, and blood sucking equipment, and sweaty palms while sitting in a waiting room chair being stared at by all sorts of odd people. (Actually, the odd people are one of the few interesting things about an appointment, but to continue!)

~So I was glad when I popped my head out of doors and found that the sun was shining, bright and cheery, despite whatever else the day might hold! To lift my spirits and put a sunny side on things, I decided to don something colorful and "springy". Easier said than done! I have this really rather dreadful knack for putting the wrong pieces with the wrong pieces and so forth, and take one original thought and turn it into a nightmare! (Much to the embarrassment of my family!) When this not infrequently happens, I turn to my sister for advice, because she is, after all, the cutest little thing on planet earth! (Okay, now she will be after me! Did I just say that on a public blog? ) And rain or shine, Nan usually has the best of suggestions. Usually. Luckily she had her stuff together today, and I owe it to her that I got out the door only ten minutes late instead of thirty. No kidding. It takes me that long to agonize over "What to wear and bring to a Doctors appointment".

~It may have been a bit too dressy. I was definitely regretting the heels when I got to the measuring station.... Quite a hassle getting them on and off.

~When I got home I asked Nan to take some pictures of the outfit for a Mod Modesty Monday post, and seeing as I was so long overdue, decided to post them tonight instead of waiting for next week! Then I kicked off the heels and gave a long sigh of relief, this posts recommendation? Save the heel heels for special occasions, not appointments where one runs the risk of elevators breaking, or having to take them off so someone can measure your height!

~I hope everyone's enjoying the rest of their week!

~Scottish Plaid~

2010-04-10T21:13:00.000-07:00

~These interesting pictures come from R.R. McIAN's interesting book, "The Clans of the Scottish Highlands". Originally published in 1845 and dedicated to Queen Victoria, this book has a wealth of information on all the clans and their tartans. I scanned these photos for use in scrapbooks and such - too good to pass up!

~Randomosity~

2010-04-09T22:42:00.000-07:00

~I realized recently that I've been rather neglecting my little blog of late. Very unkind of me. The thing is, I've discovered the interesting world of social networking, which makes communication so quick it turns my mind topsy-turvy. I scarcely know what to do with all the information at my fingertips. If any one else has had experience with this do speak up! I find myself lying awake at night wondering, forlornly, if so-and-so really will get over here cold soon, why such and such always capitalizes the miDDle of their sentences, when that person is ever going to get a hair cut, if changing ones profile picture once a quarter is too much or too little, and so on...

~Alright. So I'm exaggerating and being sarcastic! But it is true that having little bits of disorganized time on ones hands in-between painting and unpacking, gives just the right window of opportunity for a comment here, and update there. The problem will be slacking off in a couple weeks when we're all moved in - that's when the real schedule starts!

~I found this vintage poster on the internet a while back, oh the joys of mop and duster! It's funny how timing works out isn't it? Our house pretty much looks like a dumpster at the moment, so, I can relate, only, not to the "he" part. Substitute "they" and you've pretty much got it!

~Enjoy the weekend!