Maidens of Worth

Overflowing with Thankfulness...

2009-11-23T17:16:00.002-06:00

"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." - Colossians 2:6-7

Christ is the Focus

2009-11-21T10:40:00.001-06:00

"May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." - Galatians 6:14

It's so easy to lose focus, to make huge issues out of small things. I've posted a lot about living at home recently, for I've been thinking about it and how I should explain what I'm doing. However, I don't want that to be the focus of this blog or of my life.

Jesus Christ is the focus. My identity is found in Him. My relationship with Him is the main thing in my life - nothing else really matters in the grand scheme of things. Through searching of His Word and praying for guidance He does show me how I should live, but He should still be the focus in it all. I am a daughter, a sister, a dance teacher - but I am a Christian first and foremost.

I want to keep Christ as the focus. I apologize if I've made other things (such as staying home) the focus recently. In my life, I want to focus on glorifying the Lord in all that I do. I do this where I am and in what I do - but other things should be of less import than pointing people to Him.

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." - 1 Corinthians 10:31

At Home Unashamed

2009-11-20T13:40:00.002-06:00

Head over to Joyfully Home to read Jasmine's great post We Have Nothing to Apologize For. She has aptly put into words things that I have thought and struggled with.

It's hard to write in the online world without a ton of qualifications - "what's right for me may not be right for you," "we're not all called to the same things," etc. It's easy to be misunderstood.

And truthfully, in many situations, God has given us great freedom to choose; what I do won't necessarily be what you should do. We must be wise in understanding this and not put guilt on others for doing things that God has called them to. But at the same time, we don't have to continually apologize for what God has called us to do - or for promoting things that may be wise for many to do. I don't want to offend others, but I also don't want to be ashamed of what I do.

How do you know what God has called you to do? To be honest, I really hesitate to use that phrase... I use it only after prayer and lengthy searching for God's will. It's too easy to say, "well, God called me to do this" to excuse yourself or escape having to explain why you do something. We should have an answer for those who ask.

I do believe that God has "called" me to live at home until I marry. Many things have confirmed that I am where I'm supposed to be. I won't go so far as to say that every woman has to - the examples of my own sisters, all following God, has shown me that God does call different women to different things. However, I do think it can be a wonderful sphere to learn in, and a great way of staying under God-ordained authority.

Yet, it is hard to answer those who ask why I do what I do. Some ask in genuine curiosity, while others seem to want to get me out. A lot of the questions have stopped since I did go away to college for a year, and still ended up wanting to be home. Still, it's counter-cultural to live at home past high school graduation. And people do ask, from relatives to fellow church members to the dental hygienist. What do you say?

Answers vary depending on who asks and how much we have to talk. My answers are initially brief: "I'm studying independently while teaching ballet and directing theatre." If they press college, I usually tell them that I did go for a year, but it wasn't what we felt like I should continue for now. There are other ways of learning - and you can learn so much from books! No, it doesn't get me the all-important piece of paper, but I often mention that I may pursue a degree through distance learning in the future. That usually stops the questions, but I wonder if I should use it as much as I do. It is one possibility among many, but nothing definite...

Too often I answer in a way in which I'm apologetic, somewhat ashamed, for still being at home. In our culture, the connotation of an adult living at home is usually one of a lazy bum mooching off of their parents. So naturally, people will ask what you're doing, concerned that you not waste your life. How do you answer? Jasmine gives good advice: answer confidently, joyfully, lovingly, and Biblically. In doing so, we can change the negative connotation by showing that you can be useful, helpful, and productive while still living at home.

It's amazing how many people actually agree that a woman should stay under her father's authority - even live at home - until marriage, when that authority transfers to her husband. There is Biblical and historical precedence for this, which many recognize. Only last night, I was amazed at how many people from our church agreed that this was good when we somehow got on the topic during the discussion after session 12 of The Truth Project. It was encouraging.

Too often I worry about what others are thinking about me. God has taught me time and again to look to Him for approval - not others. But when people learn that I've graduated from high school and am still at home (most who don't know me just assume I'm still in high school when I'm out with my family - I look young enough...), they ask questions.

I don't want to stir up controversy or try to answer for everyone. But I am so glad to live at home, and I want to share that - without shame.

Happy 19th Birthday, Miriam!

2009-11-17T10:28:00.000-06:00

Happy 19th birthday, Miriam Rebekah! I hope you have a beautiful, wonderful day as you continue life at Judson College.

I'm praying for you today, as you go to class, take a test, and sing and play piano in the recital tonight. I know you'll do well, and I hope you enjoy the time with your family! I wish I could be there as well...

Another year has passed by so quickly, yet it has been a good one. We've learned a lot, continued to grow in our Lord, and experienced God's faithfulness through life's confusion. I look forward to another year of friendship together.

Enjoy this new season as a 19-year-old maiden!

Love,
Anna Naomi

The Only Home for Me?

2009-11-14T13:43:00.005-06:00

Being at home with my parents and sister is a blessing. I am very thankful that I can live here during this season in life. However, I don't want to give the impression that I wouldn't be happy anywhere else.

When writing about home life, it is easy for me to slip into the poetic, to give the impression that I am perfectly content and am right where I want to be forever. I am where I want to be right now, but I couldn't honestly say "there's no other place I'd rather be." I actually typed that sentence twice when writing last night, and deleted it both times. Choosing between a college dorm, an apartment by myself, or here with my family, this home is definitely my top choice. I enjoy the protection and comfort, the family almost always around, the beautiful surroundings, the church we attend, and the students and families I can work with. Our house and land will always have a special place in my heart. It is what I think of when I think of home.

However, the location is not as important as the people. If God called my family elsewhere, I would most likely move with them. And if the Lord allows me to marry, I'll willingly - joyfully! - leave this home to establish one with my husband. Though I'm a born and bred southern girl that enjoys warm weather, I'm not stuck on staying in Alabama. If my husband lived or moved to the frigid north or far out west, I would willingly go with him.

As you all have probably noticed, I do enjoy home life - it's part of who I am. But much as I enjoy our "Wisteria Pines" - this home in the valley - I look forward to one day moving to another home.

Ultimately, I look forward to our heavenly home, which will be much better than we could imagine. There we will find our forever rest, with a family much larger and more wonderful than we could ever know.

At Home in November

2009-11-13T21:38:00.001-06:00

These have been beautiful days at our home in the valley. The coolness of the morning usually warms up to the 70s, and while we've had our cold spells, the last few weeks have been almost perfect.

This afternoon I escaped to "my" spot on the hill overlooking our valley. My journal and a book made for wonderful companions as the sun warmed my back and nature buzzed around me. My writing and reading were often neglected, however, as I enjoyed just sitting and being. The vibrant fall colors provided a beautiful atmosphere to think, pray, and dream...

It's wonderful to be home. Being away last year has made me more fully appreciate the blessing home is. Do I miss college? At times I miss the friends and some of the classes and activities, but I'm so glad to be home.

So what am I doing at home? Am I just wasting my time? Am I accomplishing anything worthwhile?

Though I'm not always as diligent as I should be, God has given me many opportunities to learn, grow, and impact others. I certainly don't have everything figured out, and I'm not saying that all girls should stay home - but I do know that for now, this is where I'm to be.

What about all my plans for coming home? There was so much I wanted to do. Some has been done or has begun, while other things have been postponed - perhaps indefinitely. But God is teaching me a lot through this time.

The King's Courts has taken the most time, but it has been rewarding, albeit challenging work. And, if it has taken the most time, it's how things should be. This is what I'll probably be doing until marriage, if the Lord wills, so a lot of time and resources are devoted to it! It's amazing how much time it takes to plan, organize, research, write, design, and spread the word, and I've not even come close to doing all that I hope to!

I was able to attend Ballet Magnificat's Teacher's Workshop and direct "The Amazing Jerusalem Makeover" this summer, both things that helped prepare me for this busy fall. The teacher's workshop gave me tools, ideas, and renewed focus in my ballet classes, and "The Amazing Jerusalem Makeover" was a great start to more theatre endeavors!

This fall I have been teaching 6 dance classes and a PraisExercise class for ladies. Besides spending Tuesday and Thursday afternoons/evenings in class teaching, a lot of other time goes into being a teacher - preparing lessons, choreographing, working out logistics, driving to and from classes, arriving early to unlock the building and set up, etc. As I've started teaching agian, I have run into many challenges, but God has given such grace and strength to keep persevering. My 35 students have given me such joy each week as I'm blessed to teach them not only to dance, but also to worship the Lord with their whole being!

Theatre has also been a big part of this fall, as I wrote the script for "Beyond Bethlehem," consulted others, found songs, and worked through many details. This again, has presented many obstacles, but each time God has worked things out. It's an adventure to trust Him each day. Auditions were held 3 weeks ago, and rehearsals have taken up Monday afternoons, while we look toward a more intensive schedule in December.

My plans for continuing my education are different from what I originally planned, but I'm definitely still learning. This summer, God made it clear that I wasn't to pursue CollegePlus - at least not this year. It's been hard to trust and give up wanting to look good in the eyes of others by advancing my degree, but God has been faithful and is teaching me so much. It may still be in the future - only God knows - but for now, I have continued to study independently.

I've set up a schedule for myself much like the one when I was homeschooling, with assignments to do each day. My focus areas this fall are ballet, theatre, literature, history, theology, business/finance, Bible, family matters, and writing. I am finding many good and useful books, most of which end up on our monthly reading lists, so I won't reiterate them.

I usually only have 2-4 hours to study on my own each day, but I try to make the most of it. I read a chapter or two or an assigned number of pages in each book, writing down notes on things I find useful or want to remember. To be honest, I don't get it done every day, but I try to stay up-to-date and catch up on Saturdays if I can.

My parents have been leading The Truth Project this fall, with a small group at our home on Thursday evenings. The video series and discussions have been phenomenal, with the teaching and material both excellent!

The lessons I had hoped to take haven't happened - at least yet. I'm hoping to take piano lessons again, and I would like to find a dance teacher/mentor, but haven't yet found one in the area. I try to practice on my own, but it's harder without the motivation and critique of a teacher. I'm not planning to direct any musicals in the spring - just a dance recital in May - so I hope to find some teachers then, if God wills.

I'm also enjoying the benefits of home life, cooking nourishing and delicious meals, cleaning, sewing some, relaxing with family, inviting and preparing for company, and late-night sinks of warm, soapy water.

These past few months have gone by so quickly, but the days have been full and rewarding. No, things aren't perfect, but there is such peace in knowing this is where I'm supposed to be, at least for now.

Symphony by Chris Taylor

2009-11-11T09:08:00.003-06:00

Symphony

by Chris Taylor

I'm in the mood for a breakdown

A slowing down of all the things on my mind

That keep on trying to figure out how to pin You down

In desperate need of a shakedown

A blowing down of all the ways that I try

To talk You into a corner until You look like me

But when I finally see what You see

There's a symphony

I hear a symphony

Words cannot define

What it means to be

In Your symphony

A long awaited let down

A burning through that's calling me back to You

With a beautiful melody of all You love

It's welling deep inside of me

It's springing out, the song that I'm meant to sing

So teach me the harmony to all You love

Hearts in unison

I'm drawn into Your love

Hearts in unison

I understand Your love

True Refinement

2009-11-07T15:02:00.005-06:00

"True refinement is not mere outward polish. It goes deeper and penetrates to the very foundation of character. It is purity, gentleness, and grace in the heart, which, like the perfume of flowers, breathes out and bathes all the life in sweetness... that which really refines is purity of mind and heart."
- From Homemaking by J.R. Miller

My continual prayer is that I will be refined day-by-day by my heavenly Father, that He will shape and build my character from the inside out.

I am far from perfect and stumble far more often than I'd like, but I am ever so grateful for the grace of our God. Only in Him can we have purity, gentleness, and grace in the heart. His work brings about true refinement!

October 2009 Reading List

2009-11-02T20:40:00.001-06:00

Anna's Books

Completed this month:

Fourth Dawn by Bodie and Brock Thoene - As I worked on the script for “Beyond Bethlehem,” I wanted to read some other fiction written on the subject, to get some ideas. This book in the excellent series, The A.D. Chronicles goes into the story of Mary and Joseph before they marry. It is well written, well researched, and very insightful as it looks at the events in the way they could have happened. Your heart will connect to the characters as you realize how much they were probably facing at that time in history.
Little Dorrit by Charles Dickens - After slogging through Great Expectations at 14, I wasn’t too keen on Dickens. Too wordy and hard to follow, I determined. However, with many people enjoying his books, I decided to give it another shot. Little Dorrit was a good read, and I enjoyed the sweet story of devotion. Amy is easy to love and empathize with, and she is surrounded by a plethora of interesting characters. A bit too many interesting characters, if you ask me. The book, at 850 pages of small print, took a while to read (over a month!), and it was confusing at times, when it kept switching back and forth between characters such as the Meagles and the Merdles. While I’m not running out to pick up my next Dickens book yet, this book has shown me that Dickens’ writing, while not my favorite, can be an enjoyable read… once in a while.
Drama Ministry by Steve Pederson - If you’re involved at all with drama/theatre in a Christian setting, this is a book you’ll want to read! It goes over the power of drama, why we should use it, the good and bad ways it’s used in the church, and why we should strive for excellence through it. It also goes through the practical aspects of assembling a team, training actors, making the team last, and being effective. It has fun exercise ideas and practical and applicable things to put into practice. It is more geared towards those doing short sketches and dramas, not full-length productions, as I do. However, I’ve definitely gotten good ideas! And, in the future, I would be interested in being a part of a drama team, if God so leads. Even if you’re not currently a part of drama, but would be interested, this book would give you things to think about. There are a few things I don’t necessarily agree with (such as how much touching males/females should do when it’s “just acting”), so use discernment. Overall, however, I highly recommend this book for the dramatically-minded!
Fifth Seal by Bodie and Brock Thoene - The fifth book of The A.D. Chronicles brings the story of Joseph and Mary to life. As newlyweds, the pregnancy and difficulties they have to face are brought to life in a way that will make you think. The story also follows the lives of shepherds and their wives in Bethlehem, and culminates with the birth of Jesus, bringing the two stories together. The way they covered the birth in itself made you think. You also get snippets of the story of the wise men. Throughout the book, prophecy and the study of stars and Hebrew words is woven in ways that make it intriguing! I highly recommend this historical fiction. No, it probably didn’t happen exactly as they write, but it will cause you to think about the story in a new way and dig deeper into the Scripture yourself. They definitely stay true to the details in the Bible while tastefully making the characters relatable.
Set-Apart Femininity by Leslie Ludy - This was my 3rd time reading this book, and I was just as inspired and challenged to seek God deeper and live a life of radical, set-apartness for Him. With challenging questions and plenty of encouragement to live a life for God no matter what, this book will help shape your life for the better. Leslie wrote the book kind of in response to the book Captivating by John and Stasi Eldgredge, with the focus more on Christ than on yourself in discovering true femininity.
A Girl of the Limberlost by Gene Stratton-Porter - This sweet story and great classic was hard to put down! You will be delighted and drawn in by the story of Elnora as she perseveres through hardship to discover her dreams. The Christian perspective of the novel is refreshing while not being preachy, and the themes of hard-work and caring for others above yourself are touching. You’ll also discover a new appreciation for the way God made moths, believe it or not! =) A highly recommended read.
Darwin's Black Box by Michael Behe - You will be amazed as you learn about the complexity of a single cell is this “biochemical challenge to evolution.” This book raises question after question about evolution as it looks at life, showing that even the smallest cell would have been impossible to “just happen” to evolve. The book is well-written, and the analogies help you follow the complexities, although some of the technical descriptions were a little hard to understand. While making the case for Intelligent Design, the book doesn’t attribute the work to God, necessarily. While it would have been nice if it had pointed people to the Creator, it does raise needed questions to cause people to think. It definitely left me with a great awe of the way God made life even on the minuscule level!

Currently reading:

The 100 Most Important Events in Christian History by A. Kenneth Curtis, J. Stephen Lang, & Randy Peterson
Music At Your Fingertips by Ruth Slenczynska
Restoring the Dance by Ann Stevenson
100 Lessons in Classical Ballet by Vera S. Kostrovitskaya
Dance Anatomy and Kinesiology by Karen Clippinger
A Dance with Deception by Charles Colson
The Making of a Leader by Frank Damazio
The Family Meal Table and Hospitality by Nancy Campbell
My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chamber
For the Love of God Volume 1: A daily companion for discovering the riches of God's Word by D.A. Carson

Miriam's Books

Completed this month:

Letter Perfect by Cathy Marie Hake - This was a sweet and slightly suspenseful book. It was enjoyable to spend some free time reading it and laughing at the "heroine's" sense of humor and awkwardness. Letter Perfect is great if you need to just curl up and spend some laughing.

Currently reading:

Besides my schoolwork, I'm not really reading anything at the moment.

Have you read any of these books? What are you currently reading?

Tuesday at Judson College

2009-10-28T08:52:00.010-05:00

First, let me apologize for my inexcusable lack of posting since I came here. It's true I've been busy, but it's also easy to let this second-place to fun. I'm going to work on posting at least once a week, mostly to share pictures and notes of how my life here is going. I forgot about taking pictures until the day was almost over, but I did get some pictures of some buildings on campus. So, without further ado...

Jewett Hall

Welcome to my school, Judson College, in the small town of Marion, Alabama. It's Tuesday morning and I've just woken up at 6:45 am. I spend some time waking up (it's so hard these days!). Around 8 o'clock, I walk to the dining hall for breakfast, after which I work on homework until my make-up voice lesson at 10:30 am.

Since there will be a voice/piano recital for freshman students in the middle of November, my teacher wants me to start to get a feel for singing in the auditorium. I could sing in there all the time; it's amazing!

Now it's 11 o'clock and time for chapel. Today is hymn-sing chapel...the students get to pick out hymns to sing throughout the whole hour. Definitely my favorite chapel we've had this semester, so far.

The hockey field and gym

After lunch, I head over to the Round Room for my Old Testament Religion class. This is probably my favorite class I have this semester. Our teacher has been guiding us through the Old Testament with an insightful, but often humorous perspective. I know there were some good friends of mine who were concerned that the religion teacher (Mr. Bullard) would be slightly misguiding in his views, but I have to say that so far he has been an excellent teacher and a good person to come to if I have a question about something. So, we begin to read about Isaiah today. One of the neat things about this class is that Mr. Bullard asks the students to read the scripture out loud and I must say that Isaiah is one of the best books to read aloud.

After OT, I now head over to Tucker Hall for Music Theory with Dr. Ransom. I quickly finish and turn in the packet of homework that I've been working on the last two weeks, while praying that I got it all right. =) Actually, theory isn't that difficult, it's just time consuming.

With Theory over, I head to my dorm room for about half an hour and then come back to Tucker Hall to practice piano before my lesson at 5 pm. When my lesson is over, I go to the dining hall and enjoy supper with some friends. Then it's off to our evening choir practice (thank goodness, it will be changed next semester!). I'm so excited, we've started practicing Christmas music!

Choir practice ends at 7:45 pm, and I head back to the dorm. I change into some comfy clothes to relax in and start to work on some homework. For the next few hours I alternate between homework and talking to friends.

I was told that my night life would change once I got to college, and those people were correct. I go from a person who goes to bed at a normal hour to one who stays up late. I'm finally ready for bed a little earlier than usual, so I quickly do all that before-bedtime-stuff and jump in bed. I'm asleep before I have time to think...

The Judson College Seal in Jewett Hall

This post is a part of YLCF's A Peek into Your Day carnival. Click to links to read about the days of other ladies around the blogosphere!

Monday at Wisteria Pines

2009-10-27T10:46:00.002-05:00

5:45 AM. Alarm clock sounds; I sleepily aim for the off switch and flip on the lamp. How can it already be time to get up? I spend five minutes trying to make my eyes stay open, then convince myself to get out of bed and brave the cold. It's a new day of a new week, and I'm trying to get back into routine.

It's fifteen minutes earlier than I'm used to getting up, but I managed this time for a week when I helped out with a family, so I figured I could make it a habit. It gives me more time to wake up and have quiet time in the morning.

A hot shower wakes me up and I settle back down for devotions, covered in my purple, blue, and green crocheted blanket. It's chillier than usual, for fall is definitely here - or almost, anyway. I'm told it's supposed to be warmer again tomorrow.

The Bible selections this morning are challenging. I'm reminded to "choose the way of truth" (Psalm 119:30) and continue to "don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example..." (1 Timothy 4:12). I also prepare for our family devotions. We're starting the book of Luke, with 5 questions to answer. I try to be creative for the "what is this chapter about," answering with a quite a few words that start with "B." Alliteration is a favorite of mine. :)

Around 7:15 AM I bundle up and prepare to face the cold. A morning walk along our road helps me wake up and gives me time to review verses. Currently I'm memorizing Romans 5-8.

I decide to wear shoes this morning, for it has gotten colder. I'll miss walking the road barefoot. Once I get outside however, it feels warmer than I thought it would be and my tennis shoes are cutting into the back of my heel. I slip them off and leave them by the side of the road. My feet rejoice in the freedom on one last barefoot walk! By the end of the 20 minute-walk, however, my feet are numb and I realize this should really be the last walk in bare feet this year.

Approaching our house in the valley, I smell smoke and see it spiraling its way out of the chimney. The first fire of the season; yes, fall has truly arrived. When I get back inside, my dad says the temperature outdoors is 48*. Hmm. No wonder my feet were cold!

As Dad finishes up the oatmeal (he's so kind to make it every morning!), I plan the menu for the week and do a few odds and ends. Soon, I sit down to a steaming, nourishing bowl and a chapter of Fifth Seal by Brock and Bodie Thoene. You've got to sneak those reading times in every chance you get! =)

After a quick straighten of my room, it's already 8:30 AM. Dad and Jubilee have gone to her horseback-riding lesson, so I settle down with a pile of books. I learn about 1700s church history, the case for intelligent design and review Memlock verses before the cold chases me out of my room and towards the wood stove. It's a bit warmer there as I study about the character a leader should have, muscle types, effective drama ministry, and classical ballet class planning.

Before I knew it, nearly three hours had passed. Time goes quickly when you're learning! I spend around 20 minutes online, reading email and researching some lighting options for the upcoming musical.

Soon, it was time to go. I gathered up the scripts and audition forms and stopped in the kitchen to warm-up leftover homemade pizza for lunch. I ate – er, gulped down a slice and then headed out the door with an apple, half a carrot, and some trail mix to eat in the car.

After stopping by the bank, I arrived at the church building and got ready for the auditions for “Beyond Bethlehem.” Tables and chairs were still set up for Sunday school, so we had a nice place to gather. 9 families showed up, and I had 19 children and teens audition. They all did well, and it was fun to see old friends and meet new ones.

The auditions were over by 2:30 PM, so I said goodbyes and locked up the building. I stopped by a new store to check out their dancewear section, and then drove the 20 minutes back home, sorting out in my head possibilities for the character roles. The female roles were the hardest to determine, for I had so many great girls to chose from!

It was hard to concentrate on other things when I had the question of who to pick for each character going through my head. I sorted forms and made lists, then went to work in the kitchen, praying all the while that God would give me wisdom in the selection. As I made Creamy Pumpkin Cookies for dad to bring to "The Truth Project" he leads at a friends' house on Mondays, I narrowed the list down. It took longer than usual to cook, for I kept taking breaks to scribble things and resort.

By the time Mom and Jubilee got home from her violin lesson, I had pretty much set the cast. They found me in the midst of making stir-fry, rice, and cornbread for supper, and I talked over choices with them while they put groceries away and Jubilee stirred a few things for me. We continued to talk about it through supper and even after, and I made a few slight adjustments. It helps to talk out your thoughts with others!

The evening passed quickly - too quickly. I typed up the cast list, edited a few dance songs, did some exercises and stretches and went over choreography, coming up with movements for another song.

I also began the process of contacting other men to play the parts of Simeon and the Wise Men, since I was lacking the males needed to fill the roles. There will be special rehearsals for them if they can do it, and if not, I'll need to contact others. Oh, for more guys that are willing and able to act!

After finishing choreography I glanced at my watch - 9 PM. Well, I guess it's time to head to bed - wait! My watch had stopped! It has a nasty habit of doing that recently... It's actually 9:30 PM! I begin typing this post and send out my accountability emails to my "Sisters of the Heart." We're on week 91 now!

By the time I crawl under the covers, it's pretty late. I read three short chapters in Fifth Seal to settle down, then switch off the lamp as my clock glows 10:32 PM.

It's a little hard to get to sleep, with all that is rolling over in my head about actors and the musical. But, God has been so faithful to bring things this far, and I know that He shall continue.

It's been a full day for us here at "Wisteria Pines," but I am glad to be at home in this valley. And this is only the beginning of the week to come...

This post is a part of YLCF's A Peek into Your Day carnival. Click to links to read about the days of other ladies around the blogosphere!

A Peek into Your Day Carnival

2009-10-26T11:44:00.002-05:00

Miriam and I will be participating in the "A Peek into Your Day" carnival hosted by Young Ladies Christian Fellowship. I'll be blogging about today, and Miriam will share about her day tomorrow. We'll link up with the others on Wednesday!

It has been fun to read the posts about a day in the life of other young ladies, and I look forward to reading more! My life may not be hugely interesting, but it does give an easy topic to blog about! Consider participating yourself, if you're interested. Posts like these give us the opportunity to see the diversity in the day-to-day life of ladies all around the world.

I'll be posting about my day tomorrow morning, so check back for it then. And, if you decide to participate, let us know! It would be fun to "meet" more readers of Maidens of Worth!

Tired of Technology

2009-10-23T14:30:00.001-05:00

We live in an amazing world. From the comfort of my room, I can connect with people all over the world. Turn on the computer, make sure the internet is working, and I'm on my way.

Technology is very useful. In fact, I can't imagine life without it. Email is particularly wonderful, helping me stay in touch with friends, pass on good articles, get needed info out to my students, and let people know about upcoming auditions or presentations. I use it often, sending anywhere from 4-20 emails and receiving an average of 10 or more per day. What would I do without it?

In the online world I have met many people, through blogs, websites, forums, and social networking sites. Some of these people, like my "twin" and the dear penpal I have yet to meet in person, have become some of my closest friends. Facebook records that I'm, in fact, friends with 234 people - something that shocked me, since I don't spend that much time on there! Yet, am I really that close to most of those people?

Who would I be without all of the thoughts, ideas, and encouragement I have gotten from reading online blog posts, articles, and webzines? I can't imagine... Reading the writings of people from many walks of life with many differing views has shaped who I am. It has caused me to think, challenged my preconceived ideas, and made me thankful for the unique way God has made each of us. Still, it's far too easy to skim through article after article online without actually applying them to my life.

We live in a technological age. A TV or two takes residence in nearly every house, there's always something new for music, it's now assumed that you have a cell phone (or something even fancier), and new gadgets are continually coming out. It's ironic that I'm posting these musings on a blog, for people around the world to read.

But I must admit, I'm a bit old-fashioned when it comes to technology. It takes a while for me to try something new. With things continually changing, I want to be sure it will actually stay around before I get connected to it. Plus, with the money many new things cost and the time it takes to learn how to operate them, often I just prefer using what I had before.

However, new advances aren't bad. Technology can be very useful, and I am very thankful for it! I rarely watch TV, but an occasional good movie is a fun way to relax. I've stubbornly refused to get an ipod after all of the money I've put into CDs and the fact that I find it easier to use CD players, but I can see the benefit of the other technology. Our family got cell phones a year and a half ago, and it has been wonderful to be able to call family for free, as well as friends when you want to talk for a while. When I'm out and about, it's helpful to be able to call home. Yet, I keep it plugged in in my room when I'm home, and I'm kind of glad that the reception down in our valley isn't that great, for it keeps me from using it a lot.

I use computer technology the most, and I'm very grateful for all of the good programs my brother has set me up with. However, it takes me longer to join each new site that comes around. My brother often talks about something for months before I'll finally try it out. Firefox, Gmail, Blogger, Facebook, Picasa, and now even Delicious I enjoy using, thanks to Elijah's persistence and patience. =) Though I appreciate the convenience of a laptop, when I got a computer, I opted for a regular desktop... I didn't want the temptation of carrying my computer even outside with me! But, for the future, I can see it's benefits...

Technology is amazingly wonderful, and it's a tool that can be very effective, in it's proper place. Yet, it's so readily available and so easily makes time seem to disappear, that I get tired of it. It doesn't help that the computer screen often seems to give me headaches.

I enjoy the emails, comments, e-cards, and writings on my "wall." Yet, there's still something about a personal letter showing up in the mailbox. I don't like the fact that all of the writing I do on the computer makes me tired of writing by the time I could sit down with a pen in hand. Letters to friends and my journal have suffered.

Staying in contact with friends and family all over the world through Facebook has wonderful benefits. Although I in no way keep up with the 234 people I'm "friends" with, I have been able to stay up-to-date with friends that I probably otherwise wouldn't. But there's something wrong when I have very little time to just be with friends that live close by. Why does it take weeks for us to actually arrange times to get togehter? Why is it "easier" to just stay connected through the internet, when you only live 15 minutes apart?

I am so thankful for the things I am able to read online. Yet, I dislike the fact that I read less books and magazines these days. In an online world everything is constantly changing; when I hold printed words in my hand, I am more likely to read it carefully and take it seriously.

Much of what I do involves the computer these days. Researching things for musicals, browsing for new music for dance, looking up dance costumes and the price of lighting equipment, making charts and forms... It would be so much harder to do this without the computer! Yet, I enjoy each Sunday when I take a break from the screen and don't turn the computer on at all. It's so refereshing to feel like I have time to play games with family, read, or enjoy friends, without feeling like I have stuff to catch up with online.

Recorded music is wonderfully uplifting, and very powerful. Yet, there's still nothing I enjoy quite so much as peaceful quiet. A walk along our road, drinking in God's beautiful creation and the stillness is one of my favorite, most refreshing things.

Am I antagonistic to technology? No. I am just trying to find ways to use it less, so that I can live real life more.

Highlight of Camping: Friends

2009-10-22T23:05:00.000-05:00

"I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think, all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read, and all the friends I want to see. The longer I live, the more my mind dwells upon the beauty and the wonder of the world." - John Burroughs

"A true friend sticks by us in our joys and sorrows. In good times and bad, we need friends who will pray for us, listen to us, and lend a comforting hand and an understanding ear when needed." - Beverly LaHaye

"A true friend is the gift of God, and... only He Who made hearts can unite them." - Robert South

The Days Go By...

2009-10-10T17:56:00.004-05:00

Each day blends into the other, with many things to fill the time! It doesn't feel like it should already be October, but the slightly cooler weather tells me that fall is indeed here.

I haven't posted much recently, but I have been keeping busy! Each day I try to spend at least some time studying, as I'm currently in around 8 books on subjects ranging from dance to literature. It's been fun to study independently, but also means I have to have more self-discipline! Learning is fun, however, and I enjoy the time I can devote to it.

It's wonderful to be home among family. A few hours a week spent playing games helps relieve stress, and though I don't have time to cook as much as I like to, at least a few days a week are spent in the kitchen. My parents are leading Focus on the Family's "The Truth Project" this fall, and it's been fun to have people come to our home for that each Thursday. We also often invite people over on the weekends. After all, if the house is clean for Thursdays, why not have people over on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday - or all three?

Teaching and leading The King's Praise Ballet keeps me occupied. It is challenging and stressful at times, but a joy overall! I've been blessed with 36 students this fall, and teaching and planning 6 classes (2 on Tuesday and 4 on Thursday afternoons) keeps me on the go! I also lead a ladies class on Tuesday evenings call PraisExercise, combining cardio, dance movement, strength building exercises, and stretching for a fun but exhausting hour. Doing it all to Christian music keeps us worshiping even when our bodies cry in pain!

It's amazing how much time it takes to plan things and keep things organized behind the scenes. There is more that goes into teaching than the 7 1/2 hours I spend in class each week! But, God has given wisdom and the grace to get through it day by day.

My dad has been a huge blessing and help with the start up of classes. He got quotes and oversaw the installation of mirrors on one wall in the new fellowship hall at Fountain of Grace. They were pricey, but have been a huge benefit in teaching and allowing the students to correct their own movements. Dad also built portable barres for me to use, and Fountain of Grace has been so gracious in letting me use the beautiful, large room and store things in a closet between classes. You can see pictures of the barres and mirrors here.

I've also been busy preparing for another musical! "Beyond Bethlehem" will be presented this December, Lord willing. I have run into many setbacks and roadblocks with this one, and it's easy to get discouraged. However, it is amazing to watch God work each things out, and I am trusting Him to continue to do so!

My dance students will be presenting the songs in the musical, and auditions for acting parts will be at the end of this month. I wrote the script, and am currently in the process of revising it. On Wednesday I was able to get extremely helpful feedback and help with the editing process from a dad of my students and friend who has been involved and helped with all of the musicals I've directed. He's helping me take what I wrote, with all of the formal-sounding sentences (the way I write, for some reason!), and transform it into living characters we can relate to and find humor in, while still remaining true to the Biblical story.

This next week I'll be staying at the house of a family of church, helping to care for the six children while the parents go on a retreat. It will be a challenge, I'm sure, but the children are between the ages of 5 and 15, and very sweet. I look forward to spending time with them!

Then, this next weekend will be our semi-annual camping trip. Lydia, Elijah, and Miriam and John are all coming, and I can't wait to spend 3 days in God's beautiful creation with great friends and family!

So, that's a glimpse into my days. What are you currently up to?

September 2009 Reading List

2009-10-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

Anna's Books

Completed This Month:
I hope the number of books doesn't overwhelm you! I've been blessed to read and learn a lot this month. It's hard to fit everything into short reviews, so if you want to know more about any of the books, please don't hesitate to ask!

Worldliness edited by John Piper - Subtitled “resisting the seduction of a fallen world,” this small but powerful book issues a call for us to not drift down the path of conforming with the ungodly culture. I really appreciated its clear and bold message, tempered with grace and the emphasis that only the power of the cross of Christ can help us resist the world’s temptations. While it boldly talked about things we struggle with, it also covers legalism and how our obedience should spring from gratitude for the Gospel, not a list of do’s and don’ts. The last chapter gave practical ideas for loving the world as Christ would have us, and the appendixes had some useful articles. It is a great book that I highly recommend!
The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey -The many stories of lives changed through this financial plan back up the book's subtitle: “a proven plan for financial fitness.” Dave writes in an entertaining and engaging way, with great advice and one-liners that will cause you to think and really remember what he recommends. This book is one that anyone can understand, and it has left me more informed about the things I want to avoid and the principles I should practice. If you’re looking for a financial book, this is a great one to read. Even if, like me, you don’t need a total money makeover now, it will help you avoid needing one later!
The Wonderful World of Dance by Arnold L. Haskell - This book presents a brief history of dance of all forms, from the beginning of what we know. It was complete with photos, which were interesting, but there were quite a few shots I would have preferred not to see. I didn’t like the references to evolution as fact, or the emphasis on the magic different steps in dance were supposed to take, but it was interesting to read about many different old and new dance forms around the world. I am a big fan of dancing, but there are many dance forms that I do not believe are godly, so I can see why many people avoid it altogether. I am thankful for the opportunity to dance for the Lord!
The Actor at Work by Robert Benedetti - In order to become a better director, as well as actor (although I do it infrequently), I read and took notes on this book to become more versed in the art of acting. It was good to become more familiar with the acting lingo and think about all the different things that can be done to make a character truly come alive. I didn’t enjoy the frequent references to man as an evolved animal, or the new age-y exercises for the mind and body. However, I tried to be discerning as I read, taking the good and leaving the bad.
Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge - After hearing and reading conflicting views on this book, I decided to read it to see what it really said. I read it all the way through, and there were some passages that were quite true; they often accurately depict the typical women of today. However, many of the Scripture passages were taken out of context, and I was saddened by the passing, mocking comment about the Proverbs 31 woman (someone impossible to live up to, they say; but doesn’t God have it in the Bible for a reason?). Most of the role models and examples of women were taken from popular movies and novels while the Biblical examples of women they gave were rarely accurate, in my opinion. There were many sad stories of woman abused and neglected, and some of their suggestions may bring help to hurting hearts. However, the book as a whole was very self-oriented, encouraging us to focus on ourselves in ways that seem to diminish the power and glory of God. I could go on, but others I respect have reviewed the book in ways I agree with:
Click the links for reviews on: Ladies Against Feminism, CBMW, and Challis.com.
The Keeper of the Bees by Gene Stratton-Porter - After hearing enthusiastic reviews of books by Gene Statton-Porter, I decided to give one of them a try. I wasn’t disappointed! This story was well written, heartfelt, engaging, and a joy to read! It follows James MacFarlane, a wounded World War I veteran in his journey to health and wholeness. Some of the circumstances may seem far-fetched, but I truly enjoyed the story and the way trust and reliance on God was woven through it. It was fun to learn more about bees through the story and the amazing way God has created them. The mysteries the story holds will keep you guessing as you turn the pages, and yet I was delighted to find that what I had guessed was correct. A great classic book that will give you a wonderful treat!
The Duggars: 20 and Counting! by Michele and Jim Bob Duggar - This book was an interesting glimpse into the lives of one of the largest families in America. I enjoyed reading the story of how the parents met and how each child was added to their family, as they learned business lessons and outgrew houses. The way that they have trusted God and how He has provided is inspirational. I enjoyed the Q & A boxes, recipes, and great organizational tips that are throughout the book. The Duggars seem to be doing a great job raising their family to follow the Lord. Although some of their personal convictions may be different than ours, we can still have a lot to learn from them.
Basic Principles of Classical Ballet by Agrippina Vaganova - This book, written by the developer of the Russian ballet technique (Vaganova), thoroughly explains nearly all the aspects of ballet technique. To read and comprehend it, you need to know at least a little of the basics of ballet, but the book also explains things in an easy-to-understand way. It starts at the beginning and then has chapters dealing with different aspects of ballet, including battements, arms, basic poses, jumps, and turns. It also had many well-drawn and easy to understand illustrations, drawn of a sweet ballerina figure in a modest skirt! This is a book that I definitely recommend to any ballerina, and one that I hope to buy myself, since I was only borrowing it from the library.
Playmaking: A Manuel of Craftsmanship by William Archer - This book I never completed; I gave up after the 7th chapter, because it really wasn’t helpful for me in what I am writing/directing. I ran across the title in another book, and before buying it, decided to search online to see if I could it less expensively. To my delight, I found it as a free e-book download here. However, with its constant references to plays I haven’t read and the style of writing (it was originally published in 1912), I decided it just wasn’t worth my while to finish.
The 3 Simple Rules of the Prima Ballerina by Anita Leembruggen - This e-book is all about the basics of ballet and ways to improve. It explains in easy-to-understand language and illustrations many of the basic moves and stances, and has helpful tips on many things, from setting personal goals to being a helpful ballet mom to nutrition and training. It goes in-depth about each of the basic positions and poses of arms and legs and gives things to remember about class etiquette, different styles, and performing various steps. It also explained the major dance styles and gave the stories of the famous ballets.
It gave me useful tips to remember, and broke things down in a great way for beginners. However, it was a bit pricey for being an e-book of only 207 pages and it wasn't quite as good as I had expected after reading all of the reviews. There were also quite a few grammar and punctuation errors that were distracting.
Unfashionable by Tullian Tchividjian - Subtitled “making a difference in the world by being different,” this book by one of the grandsons of Billy Graham urges us to look to God’s Word to find out how we should live, even if that means living in direct opposition to the ways of the culture. Divided into four parts, it explores the Call, the Commission, the Community, and the Charge. A lot of the material and urgings I had heard before in one way or another, so this wasn’t a book that radically changed my perspective. However, I enjoyed his calling us to live our life entirely for the Lord, even though it will be out of fashion.
Financial Peace Revisted by Dave Ramsey - This book on money is written in a fun and practical way, and is the updated version of the bestseller, Financial Peace. Its view of money and how to manage it so that it doesn’t manage you is very effective as the book gives practical advice on a variety of financial situations. It is a great book to read as I begin to earn a little more money, so that I can start managing my money wisely from the beginning. My next action step is to take time to make a working budget, for as the book says, “When we fail to plan, we plan to fail…”

Currently Reading:

The 100 Most Important Events in Christian History by A. Kenneth Curtis, J. Stephen Lang, & Randy Peterson
Music At Your Fingertips by Ruth Slenczynska
Drama Ministry by Steve Pederson
Dawin's Black Box by Michael J. Behe
100 Lessons in Classical Ballet by Vera S. Kostrovitskaya
Dance Anatomy and Kinesiology by Karen Clippinger
Little Dorrit by Charles Dickens
Set-Apart Femininity by Leslie Ludy
My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chamber
For the Love of God Volume 1: A daily companion for discovering the riches of God's Word by D.A. Carson

Miriam's Books
Again, I have been so busy that I haven't read much of anything except textbooks. I don't even read all the blogs I used to. =( But here's my current list of books. =)

Currently Reading:

Biology textbook
Music Theory and Sight-Singing textbooks
The Bible (for personal devotions as well as OT Religion)

Now, what have you been reading recently?

A Visit to Three Colleges (Part 2)

2009-10-02T22:20:00.001-05:00

(Continued from Part 1)

Despite the lack of sleep over the past three nights, I was eager to get on the road that Saturday morning as I headed toward Longview, Texas. The drive went smoothly and I enjoyed the lack of traffic during the first part of the day. After all, not too many people are driving at 6:45 AM on a Saturday morning!

It took 5 hours to get to LeTourneau College, and I battled tiredness part of the way, but between songs on the radio and a/c blowing on my face, I kept alert. I couldn't wait to see my brother!

I arrived just before lunch, and after dining in his high-class cafeteria (seriously, they have an amazing new eating area, with wonderfully good food!), we took a relaxing stop at a swing someone had hung from the limb of a great tree and then walked around campus. It was warm but breezy, so the walk was quite pleasant!

They also have walkways under great trees lining the lane. Hmm... Maybe this is the mark of a true college? ;)

The campus of LeTourneau University is quite beautiful, and was made even more so by the company of my dear brother. It was SO good to see him. It made the drive - and the money I had to pay for mileage - worth it.

They even had some huge playground equipment! Okay, so they were models of the amazing machines R.G. LeTourneau built, but they were fun to climb on!

We spent the rest of the afternoon and early evening with a friend, shared a shake at Burger King, and then walked around campus again, this time in the cool darkness, talking late into the night. Elijah had arranged for me to stay on campus with a girl he knew, which made it nice and convenient!

The next day we celebrated Elijah's 21st birthday! After a great service at his church, we went out to eat for lunch together. I so enjoy going out with my brother!

Upon getting back to campus, we changed and then readied the goods for the party. I had made a cake before leaving and left it in the back of my trunk. It wasn't too worse for the wear... We picked out an ant or two, covered it all with frosting, and everyone enjoyed the delectable home-made goodness!

Three guys from LeTourneau drove with Elijah and I to Lake Gladewater, where we met two other friends. It was another beautiful day, perfect for spending time in the great outdoors! I enjoyed getting to know some of Elijah's friends, and it was rather interesting to hear the conversation of 4 engineers in the car together! =)

After eating cake and snacks, we played games. Apples to Apples (we had the Bible edition) is a fun game to play with a group, as it can bring up interesting subjects of conversation! It's also funny to see which adjectives everyone got! I tried my best to live up to my card of "scary" (failing pretty miserably) while Elijah protested that he wasn't cute, as his card said (I, as his sister, said that yes, of course he was)!

We made the short treck to this "waterfall" before leaving to drive back to campus. It was pretty, but not very large!

All-in-all, it was a wonderful visit with my brother! It was hard to leave on Monday morning, but I had to get back in time to teach the next day, so I said my goodbye around 8:30 AM and made the 10-hour drive home, full of treasured memories.

A Visit to Three Colleges (Part 1)

2009-09-30T13:20:00.001-05:00

It seems like posts these days are mainly pictures that tell what I'm up to. But, pictures are better than nothing, I suppose! It's a dry season of writing for me right now, as I am quite busy with the start-up of dance classes and planning for a Christmas musical. I've also just finished writing the first draft of the dialogue, and have begun choreographing and teaching the dances to my students. There have been many obstacles and many things to continue to figure out, but I am excited to see how God is working everything out. But I digress...

Two weeks ago I prepared to head out on a weekend visit to three different colleges. It was a whirlwind trip, leaving Thursday evening and arriving back home Monday evening, and driving over 1000 miles alone. But, it was a good and safe trip, praise God!

The reason for the trip was to visit my brother Elijah at his college and help him celebrate his 21st birthday. But, since Miriam's college and the college I attended last year were right on the way, I decided to stop and see friends as well.

I jumped in the car after teaching 4 dance classes on Thursday, September 17th, stopped at Walmart to get food for the journey, and drove an hour and 45 minutes to Judson College.

It was so good to see Miriam and be able to stay in her room, meet her friends, and take a tour of her campus. We stayed up somewhat late that night, catching up and hanging out with her fun roommate and suite mates.

The next morning we walked around campus. I had seen it in the dark, but it was quite beautiful by day, especially as it was a cool, breezy morning. Judson is in a really pretty location! I particularly liked this lane through the trees.

Of course, passing by trees, I couldn't resist getting another "peek-around-the-trunk" picture. =)

Miriam's room is cozy, and she's decorated it well. I left her on Friday morning around 9 AM with homemade cookies and fun memories. I wish I could have stayed longer, but the next stop in my journey was calling my name.

I arrived at Belhaven College around 1 PM, and enthusiastically greeted Mary Khris, my roommate last spring. It was so good to catch up with her! She was also very kind to host me in her room for the night, so that it felt like old times.

There were also many other friends to visit with, Grace being one of the main ones. We went out for supper with another friend as well, and later talked up a storm until I finally had to make myself head to bed around midnight. I am blessed to have friends in many locations; it's just hard to not be able to see them more often!

The next morning I awoke at 6 AM and got in the car 45 minutes later to hit the road. It was on to LeTourneau University, to see my beloved brother... (to be continued)

Just as He Unfolds the Rose

2009-09-24T10:15:00.005-05:00

This poem was recently posted on YLCF, and it encouraged me so much, I wanted to share it with you! The pictures are ones I took of a beautiful rose bush back in May.

It is only a tiny rosebud,
A flower of God’s design,
But I cannot unfold the petals
With these clumsy hands of mine.

The secret of unfolding flowers
Is not known to such as I,
The flower God opens so sweetly,
In my hands would fade and die.

If I cannot unfold a rosebud,
This flower of God’s design,
Then how can I have wisdom
To unfold this life of mine?

So I’ll trust Him for His leading
Each moment of every day
And I’ll look to Him for His guidance
Each step of the pilgrim way.

For the pathway that lies before me
My heavenly Father knows
I’ll trust Him to unfold the moments
Just as He unfolds the rose.

~Anonymous.

Labor Day Weekend with Family

2009-09-12T21:35:00.002-05:00

We knew that my sister Maria and her family were coming for the extended Labor Day weekend. Last Saturday afternoon, I was doing some things on my computer, prior to their arrival. I faintly heard a violin playing "Fiddler on the Roof," and at first thought it was coming from a webpage I had open. As I ascertained that it wasn't coming from my computer speakers, the music got louder, right outside my window. I got up to look, thinking it was Jubilee playing her violin, but wondering why she would be playing it right outside, when I thought she was watching TV. When I looked out, I saw my brother-in-law John playing the violin with a huge grin on his face! Right beside him was my sister Miriam - two people I thought were miles away in Ohio! My face showed utter shock as I yelled, "Miriam and John are here!" in excited bewilderment and flew outside to give them a hug.

It was a wonderful surprise to have them come and spend the weekend! They came to celebrate their 1-year anniversary with us. It's hard to believe that it's already been a year since their wedding!

Lisa Beth sweetly made them a necklace, which lovingly tied them together. :)

It was great to see my sister Miriam again! I've really missed her this past year. But, I've rejoiced as she and John have enjoyed married life!

We played a lot of games together. This visit we played "Ticket to Ride," a very interesting and fun game that Miriam brought.

On Sunday there was a fellowship lunch after the church service. After we ate, some of us did some group dancing. The Virginia Reel was the first and favorite.

Even the little girls joined in! I was amazed at how well Lisa Beth, my almost-three year old niece danced along!

We also took some pictures of Miriam and John outside of the church, exactly one year since their wedding. Fun memories!

On Monday we went to the zoo on the spur of the moment, packing a picnic lunch and good cameras!

You get to see the animals in a new way through the eyes of a child.

Almost everyone agreed that their favorite animal was the giraffe. A quick rain shower forced us to take shelter, but allowed us more time to watch these beautiful animals!

I had fun holding Lisa Beth and getting her to smile. =)

We also enjoyed a ride on the train. It's amazing how much smaller it looks, the older you get!

We finished up by spinning on a new piece of playground equipment at the zoo. You're never too old to play!

Thanks to my wonderful family for an enjoyable weekend! It was a nice break before the busyness of this last week.

To Sit In His Presence

2009-09-09T09:59:00.003-05:00

"What a blessing to simply sit in His presence and be still, to push out the noise of the world and listen to the Holy Spirit instead. I've always loved turning out the lights and sitting on the . . . ''

Read the rest of this wonderful post here:

http://timothydeanmills.blogspot.com/2009/09/to-sit-in-his-presence.html

Picture Perfect?

2009-09-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

Miriam and I enjoy getting pictures taken together as we document our friendship. But each seemingly perfectly-posed picture didn't always happen that way naturally... Sometimes interesting candids are caught in the flash. ;)

Take 1 - Anna looks at Miriam, amazed at what she hears!

Take 2 - Miriam gazes off into Never-land as Anna begins to relate her own story - and realizes too late that a picture is being taken!

Take 3 - At last! Sweet, composed smiles from forever friends.

Now let's see how they turned out... Oh my!

The Rebelution Conference!

2009-09-02T15:32:00.000-05:00

Anna and I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the Rebelution conference in Birmingham this past weekend. Anna did an amazing job of planning and putting together a group of 25+ and they carpooled to the conference. I came home for the weekend and went with my family. We arrived at the same time (even seeing each other pass in vans on the drive there!) and were saved the trouble of trying to find each other in the crowds. I have followed The Rebelution blog for the past two years and I've read their book, but I was looking forward to hearing their message in person.

I'm not sure what part of the conference I enjoyed the most, the worshipping or the message. The combination of both made for an experienced I won't soon forget. I loved the praise and worship at the beginning of each session.

Brett Harris, Caleb Hart, Alex Harris, and Jeremy Ross

Miriam, Alex Harris, Anna, and Brett Harris

Maidens of Worth and Rebelutionaries

Our matching outfits (No, it wasn't planned!)

Our group stopped to eat supper together after the conference.

Do Hard Things!

August 2009 Reading List

2009-08-31T15:45:00.002-05:00

Anna's Books

Completed This Month:

All the Way Home by Mary Pride - This excellent book was published in 1989 and is full of practical ideas for a home-centered life. It is the sequel to The Way Home, and gives more real-life stories and suggestions for what to do at home. It covers marriage, pregnancy, birth, raising children, home education, cleaning and organization, church, ministry, and home business, among many other things. Because of some mature topics covered, I wouldn't necessarily recommend it to people under 18, for it is definitely geared toward married folks. However, I really enjoyed it and look forward to one day putting into practice some of its material.
Jamie MacLeod: Highland Lass by Michael Phillips and Judith Pella - Trying to find her place in the world and fulfill her father's dreams, the orphanes Jamie is faced with many different circumstances in her young life. Full of mystery and lessons learned, Jamie finally finds rest in what she was meant to be: a woman of God. This sweet story was a delightful treat, one that kept me turning pages.
The Hidden Art of Homemaking by Edith Schaffer - This book is full of "creative ideas for enriching everyday life." I really enjoyed its suggestions for finding beauty in the little things and creating a home pleasing for the family that lives there and the visitors that come. It began by pointing us to our Creator, from whom we get our creativity, and then explored many "hidden arts" that can be put into practice in the home, from music to the visual arts to food and interior decoration. Even if you're not an expert in any of these arts, you are encouraged to use what you can do to beautify your home and surroundings, thus encouraging those around you!
Ballet for Beginners by Nancy Draper & Margaret F. Atkinson – I borrowed this sweet book, published in 1951, from the library to help give inspiration and tips for teaching. It introduces ballet to the young beginner and is complete with explanations of the basic positions and moves and clear photographs. The dancers are fairly modestly attired compared to current days. Exercises complete with piano sheet music are included for the dancer to practice at home. The back gives brief biographies of famous dancers and synopsis of popular ballets.
Ballet for Beginners by Marie-Laure Medova - This was another library book borrowed to aid in teaching. Complete with full-color pictures, this book shows the basic ballet poses and steps for young beginners, as well as a few more complicated ones to practice at home. It gives good tips and things to remember, and it broke down each step in very understandable picture illustrations. The back also gave a brief history of ballet. Because of the more scantily-clad dancers, it’s not a book I would like to have on my shelf.
Magdalene by Angela Hunt - This novel was written about the Biblical Mary Magdalene, taking dramatic liberty to flesh out what her life could have been before she met Christ and was delivered from demons. With all of the different views about the woman Mary Magdalene could have been, I enjoyed the setting and characters in this story. It provided nice respite and escape as I battled a cold. It was such a great read, I finished it in 2 days!
The Glass Menagerie by Tennesse Williams - A memory play written in 1944, it gives a glimpse into the lives of three people – a mother and her crippled daughter and restless son – and their hidden aspirations, or lack thereof. The mother has high hopes for her children, but they always seem to disappoint her. What happens when a “gentleman caller” is introduced? Soon hopes are dashed once again, and we are left wondering.

Currently Reading:

Worldliness by John Piper
Basic Principles of Classical Ballet by Agrippina Vaganova
The Wonderful World of Dance by Arnold L. Haskell
The Actor at Work by Robert Benedetti
PlayMaking: A Manual of Craftsmanship by William Archer
The 100 Most Important Events in Christian History by A. Kenneth Curtis, J. Stephen Lang, & Randy Peterson
The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey
The Keeper of the Bees by Gene Stratton-Porter
Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge
My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chamber
For the Love of God Volume 1: A daily companion for discovering the riches of God's Word by D.A. Carson

Miriam's Books

When I sat down to put my books on this post, it hit me that I hadn't read anything this whole month! How that tragedy happened I don't know, but I'll do my best to make it doesn't occur again. =)

Memories of a Musical

2009-08-28T13:50:00.001-05:00

Has it really been almost three weeks since the presentations of "The Amazing Jerusalem Makeover?" How time flies...

Things haven't really slowed down, although it's been nice to get a little more time at home. My dance classes start in 2 weeks, so I've been putting things away from the musical, doing fall cleaning, and planning and getting people registered for dance classes. Lydia and Elijah were both home briefly before heading off to college, and this week I began my own independent studies for continuing education. I came down with a fever/cold on Wednesday, and am trying to get over that. At least it's given me some time to read and rest!

I've finally uploaded pictures and slideshows from the musical. The Picasa Album has pictures in chronological order telling the basic story of the musical. This slideshow introduces the cast of characters, and played at the beginning of each presentaion. The other slideshow played at the end each presentation, and shares pictures from the reherasals and dress rehearsals. You can click the links to go to each album/slideshow, or go to The King's Courts' blog to read more about them.

Be sure to watch the slideshows, because the music in the background is played by Miriam Rebekah! She sweetly allowed me to use music from the CD recorded at her senior recital. One of the pieces was composed by her brother Caleb, and it is absolutely beautiful!

This musical was probably the most work of any that I've done, but it was definitely worth it. I learned a lot about delegation and was blessed by the many people that stepped up to help with joy. I could never have done it alone.

Each night the audience really seemed to enjoy it. In the past few weeks I have continued to be encouraged as I hear from different people blessed by it. God is so good! He has used this musical in ways beyond I could have imagined.

The 12 families involved were such a blessing to work with. God really brought everyone together to work in unity. From 7 different churches and 6 different cities, it was a blessing to see how God used everyone.

To top it all off, one of the families used their cake-decorating skills to make a cake decorated like the Jerusalem walls with scenes from the musical depticted with legos.

It was fun to work with this group on this fun and exciting musical. The memories are many and good. I look forward to future productions as God leads!