Servant of the King

One thing remains.

2011-11-10T16:30:00.000-08:00

We live in a world of uncertainty and insanity. Nothing stays the same.

Think about it. In a moment, your life could be turned upside down. You don't know if your house will be destroyed, if someone you love will be taken away from you, or if all your plans will come tumbling to the ground. You just don't know.

Whether something huge like that happens to you or not, I can guarantee that there WILL be change in your life. Change is uncomfortable. Change requires you to let go of things and to get used to something different for awhile. Change requires you to step out of your comfort zone.

When things change, we automatically look for something to hold onto. But what are you going to do if there's nothing to hold onto? Where are you gonna go? We look for something to grip, but when we turn our back, that thing or person is ripped out of our hands like everything else.

There's only ONE THING that will NEVER change, and that's Jesus. When everything in your life is spinning out of control, Jesus will be the one thing you can hold onto. He's the one thing that won't leave; the one thing that can't be destroyed. His love NEVER FAILS. Hold on to Him. Spend time with Him. Let His love wash over you and fill you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_KXsMCJgBQ

(I couldn't get it to link to here, but seriously, go to this. Definitely one of my favorites.)

This is not our home(:

2011-10-17T19:03:00.001-07:00

There's so much to think about. Life is insane--and so uncertain. Our house recently sold, and we have to be out in 2 weeks...and we don't have a house to buy! Where are we going to live? What should I do next year as far as school? What about after that? Every day I face so many choices, as does everyone!

It doesn't matter. Well, okay, it matters. It matters a lot. Because we are HERE to glorify God. There's a lot of decisions that don't glorify Him, and a lot that do! The only way we can know is by reading His Word. But, if we're living for Jesus, glorifying Him and setting His example in everything, keeping our focus on Him in every minute of ever day, it really doesn't matter what we do. We're only going to be here for a little while. If we suffer, it's okay. And we WILL suffer. Still, it's only for a little while. We can take ANYTHING for this short time that we're here, because we're longing for something so much greater...and it's so real.

One day...we'll spend our days on acres and acres of beautiful, rolling hills. We'll live in a mansion. There'll be crystal clear streams bubbling with the clearest, purest water you'll ever taste. There'll be no more missing people. We'll get to spend every day with them. There will be no more of that painful, longing for more of Jesus, because we'll have Him. We'll be basking in His presence. And you know that music that just hits you hard? You think it's the most beautiful worship music you've ever heard, and it takes you right to the throne of God? We'll be a part of that music- x 98234745679834. There'll be no more pain. No more heartache. We'll be able to give the most amazing, long hugs in heaven. We'll be able to dance more beautifully than we've ever even seen here. Our bodies will be perfect. We'll spend our days running, basking in the perfect love of God, loving others, having bonfires, walking through the woods, swimming in the lake, being in fellowship with ALL believers and with God...

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

We can take anything here, because it's for such a short while. Never lose heart. <3

I wanna run on greener pastures

I wanna dance on higher hills

I wanna drink from sweeter waters

In the misty morning chill

My soul is getting restless for the place where I belong

I can't wait to join the angels and sing

My heaven song

Seth saying AWANA verses- 1 "Acrimpians" 15:4

2011-10-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

Still alive!

2011-09-28T18:45:00.001-07:00

Yep, I'm still here(:

Well, school has started and fall is definitely in full swing. I'm still missing summer! Fall's beautiful too, though. Andi and I went out and took advantage of the beautiful day today(:

Some things the past few weeks have included:

*Harvesting honey

Our hives did really well this year and we got buckets and buckets of honey and comb! Mmmm. It really does make your teeth whiter, too. I'm tellin ya.

*Hunting

Last Friday night I was sitting at the kitchen table doing Physics like a good little girl....until Elaina excitedly ran through the door announcing that she shot a deer. Turns out she got TWO. I spent the next 6 hours tracking blood trails through the woods in the dark, hauling deer, and chopping and packaging meat. Kinda gross, but hey, now I've got deer, rabbits, and fish down! I should go into business! Ew. no. haha We have a ton of venison now though, which is delicious! Getting to bed exhausted at 2a was worth it.(:

*HPA

This year Andrea and I decided to audition for Homeschool Performing Arts' production of Wizard of Oz. We started rehearsals last Friday. I think this year's going to be an absolute blast! I'm really looking forward to learning a lot, making and building friendships with the incredible cast, and getting closer to God through it!

*Davis Harvest Party!

One of the highlights of the year...definitely a highlight of fall!

Life is great.(: We kinda have a shortage of pictures lately... we haven't been taking many so I really don't have any for any of those things! ^ Sorry! But hey, I posted.(:

Up north Michigan! Cottage 2011(:

2011-08-24T15:24:00.000-07:00

We've been going up to this cottage with our Godfamily (don't ask) for the last 15 years. This year was the best yet in my opinion!

Chester kids on a Lake Michigan beach

We saw so many beautiful places up there! It really makes you awed at God's imagination, creativity, and power!

Rest stop on the way there! It took us 3 hours and 59 minutes to get there--I think that's a record! But... it took us about 5 hours to get home! With getting lost, lots of stops, and the dog getting sick, it was a much longer ride. :P Definitely worth it to spend a few days at the cottage with some of our favorite people, though!

Rest stop again!

Love this kid(:

Steel drum band on Lake Michigan! This was one of the coolest parts of the trip! A bunch of kids banging on steel barrels to put it simply. It was SO AMAZING!

Farmer's market! The kids got to be part of the band for a bit! (:

Fishing at the cottage on our small lake. We caught a lot of perch and catfish! I also learned to clean fish this weekend. Yummy!

Tractor ride! What a cool family we are(: haha

Andi, Luke and I in the lake.

I'm so thankful for my amazing Godfamily. <3 We have such a blast with them every time. Riding waves in Lake Michigan, singing country at the top of our lungs, fishing, going to Narnia (;, hiking in the woods, walking around downtown.. these guys are great.

August 2011 has been one of the best months of my life! Life is what you make it, ya know? If you wanna make it great, it will be. So put on a smile and be happy you're alive! God is so good to us(:

::Fair week 2011-best week of the summer::

2011-08-09T11:15:00.000-07:00

Ready for some pictures?! Here goes!

Fair was definitely the best week of the summer so far. It's been less than a week, and we're already counting down until next year. It's so rewarding working with the animals and doing projects all summer, then being able to take them to the fair!

Sisters! I think this was the first day of fair (Sunday) after we brought the sheep in.

These pictures aren't in the right order, but this is Elaina showing her rabbit on Monday morning.

Abbi! Miss you, fair buddy! It's so much fun getting to spend the week with all these fantastic 4H kids! The only problem is, you really miss them a week later... ): This was Friday night (before bringing the animals in) while we waited for HOURS (literally) for the food judges.

The good news is...Elaina got a best of show on her U.S.A. cake! Isn't it pretty? Andrea and I decided to skip the stress of baking all day Friday to do foods. It felt great to be able to just hang out at the fair and spend the day Friday getting other things ready instead of rushing around making food!

5-8 year olds on Saturday night. Ian showed his rabbit and his glass painting. He was a lot more confident about talking to the judge this year!

Sheep buddies! Love these girls(:

Showing sheep on Monday

Elaina got 2nd place in sheep showmanship for her age division, so she got to be a part of Little International! For that, she had to learn to show all of the large animals (steer, dairy feeder, pigs, goats, horses and sheep). Go little sis! (:

Practicing a few days before

Little I on Friday night. She didn't place, but she sure had fun!

Well, that wasn't very organized, so I'll go ahead and write just a little from each day:

Friday, July 29

Foods in the evening and setting up the camper

Saturday, July 30

5-8 year-olds and turning in projects (all I did this year was glass painting, stencil on wood, and metal punch...ah that felt good!)

Sunday, July 31

Brought the sheep and rabbits in

Monday, August 1

Sheep showing! This was one of the most fun days. It's always a little nerve racking before you start, but then once you get in the ring, you want to keep going back!

Tuesday, August 2

Just hung out at the fair... I love doing that(: Fair is one of my favorite places in the world!

Wednesday, August 3

Rabbit showmanship

Cheering on Elaina! I decided not to do a rabbit this year, either. It was nice not having to sit there all morning showing rabbits, but I decided that I might raise meat rabbits again next year and just skip showmanship (that's the worst part...).

Thursday, August4

Large animal auction

Friday, August 5

Hung out at the fair in the morning, then left in the afternoon for HPA (Homeschool Performing Arts for those of you who don't know) auditions. That was... something.. haha. Then on Friday night we got to ride rides at the fair and watch Little I (part of it!)!

Saturday, August 6

Last day): Andi and I had to leave early to work at a wedding. It was..well.. a really sad morning!

I'm not really missing the sheep (yet), but I do miss all the fun times we had with them this summer! And of course I miss fair... the amazing people there and just being there having a blast! Please come quickly, fair 2012! I'm hoping to do SOME kind of cow next year (most likely a dairy feeder), sheep again, and maybe rabbits... we'll see! I can't wait to get next year's animals and get started!

::It's a great day to be alive!::

Rachel(:

2011-07-22T20:30:00.001-07:00

This is my amazing friend, Rachel. She's absolutely incredible. And isn't she cute? (: Look at those braids! hehe I'm doing them as soooon as you get back, Rach.

Rachel, I'm sooo blessed to have you in my life! You're always there, you're a fantastic listener, and you give Godly advice(: I loveee talking to you.

I hate that you're like 234985069812938740958 miles away right now. Not cool. You needa come back. :P

Thank you for always being there, shining for Christ through everything, and being one of my best friends, Rachy! Pleasee come home because I misss you so much! Love you! <3

Sincerely,

Smart Club Association

Marissa Chester-Vice President(;

Broken :P

2011-06-07T12:38:00.000-07:00

I was putting this post off because typing takes soo long right now, but I'm finally doing it! Last Tuesday I was at soccer practice (the last of the season), and got hit in the arm with a ball. It was...a pretty powerful kick! I didn't think it was broken at first, but after driving home (one handed) and still being in quite a bit of pain whenever I tried to move it, my parents decided to take me in and get an x-ray. Apparently the bone was cracked straightttt through. Soo... I'm wearing this cool green cast for the next four weeks! I'm counting down the days until June 30! Then I get a shorter one for a couple more weeks.

haha my cast does NOT look like this anymore. It's pretty marked up by my amazing friends! (:

Last weekend we played in the state homeschool soccer tournament. I was bummed that I couldn't play, but I had a blast hanging out there and cheering my team on! This picture ^ was at the end of one of our games when we won in an incredible shoot-out!

WE GOT SECOND!! GOOOOO PATRIOTS!

Andrea, Izzy, Joe and me...ready for summer!!! I like this picture because it's so.... summery!!

Sibs, life... God's good.

2011-05-07T19:01:00.000-07:00

I love my brothers(:

I'm so happy that spring is here. Life has been pretty crazy with finishing up the school year and all. Does anyone else feel that way, or is it just us? Busy as it is though, God's been proving His faithfulness... as always. <3

Today Andi and I played for a wedding, which I'm soo glad is over. It was fun of course, but that kind of thing is always sort of nerve racking and just good to have behind you. On Tuesday I have college auditions, which means lots more practicing between now and then. I kinda haven't been working on that nearly as much as I should with the wedding planning and all, so guess what my next three days will look like?? Ah well... I read this verse today and thought it applied perfectly:

The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

Psalm 118:6

Ya know, no matter what happens, I'm secure in Christ. I know who God tells me I am, and I know that I AM WHO GOD SAYS I AM. So if my God is for me, than who can stand against??

2011-04-06T19:35:00.000-07:00

See, I have written your name on the palms of my hands....
Isaiah 49:16a

Wow. Take that one in.

Unspeakable J-O-Y!!

2011-03-03T19:08:00.000-08:00

Is there a difference between joy and happiness?

YES. YES. YES.

My definitions:
Happiness- What you feel when something good happens to you or when things are going your way

Joy- Well.. why try? It's indescribable!!

Joy's like, when you wake up, and for no apparent reason, you're just... joyful. I know I'm at a loss for words here.. That's because NO WORDS CAN DESCRIBE THE JOY THAT OUR GOD GIVES!!

Take a look at your life.... all the good God has given you, and the fact that HE'S SIMPLY GOOD. Isn't that a cause for joy?!

~Joy, unspeakable joy
An overflowing well
No tongue can tell
Joy, unspeakable joy
It rises in my soul
And never lets me go!~

Chicks! Summer's on its way!

2011-02-17T19:59:00.000-08:00

This completely makes me feel like summer's coming. YAY!!!! :D

2011-02-09T17:26:00.000-08:00

"Here's how you can practice sisterly affection to brothers in your life: Let men be your brothers and don't assume that there is a more-than-friendship interest, unless he actually states it. With his mouth. In English. TO YOU!" --Joshua Harris

...stole this off facebook from Stephanie. :) Isn't it great?

You know this... or do you?

2011-02-07T16:14:00.000-08:00

For a man's ways are in full view of the LORD, and he examines all his paths.
Proverbs 5:21

God's always watching us, right? Right. But really think about this... if Jesus were physically standing right next to you, how would it effect what you do, say, or think? I found that when I kept this in mind, it actually changed my behavior, speech, and helped me to be more gentle and patient. Crazy, but it really worked!

Give it a try! And remember, not only is Jesus watching, but others are too...

"Live your life like Jesus is standing next to you watching everything you do.... because He is..."

College... my plans, God's plans...

2011-02-01T13:31:00.000-08:00

I've always know that God will take care of me. I've always known that He'll fulfill His plans for my life if I trust Him. I've always known that He has a plan.

But now.... high school only has a few short months left and graduation is fast approaching. I'm finding myself worried, forgetting to trust in the Lord. I'm a firstborn; I feel like I need to have everything planned out. :) I'm fairly certain that my purpose is life is to lift God's name up and help others to see His greatness through music. Music has pretty much been the focus of my life for... a long time.... and I love it. :) As of now, my plan is to start our community college's music degree next year. I pretty much know for sure that my knowledge and skill in music will be raised studying there. What I'm unsure of though, is what I'm going to do after that... I feel like God has a plan, but then again, music isn't the most booming field out there right now...

I guess my fear is colliding with my faith at this point. The world tells me that I probably won't be able to succeed out there with music. God tells me that He will provide. He'll give me everything I need if I'm following His will. But if I'm not following His will... that's a dangerous boat to be in.

This morning as I sat down to spend time with the Lord, I recommitted myself to listening to Him and relying on His promises. It's so hard to tune out the world's lies, but that's what I know I need to do. In my Bible reading today was Psalm 138. Verse 8 struck me:

The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; Your love, O Lord, endures forever--
do not abandon the works of Your hands.
Psalm 138:8

So here's my point:
Trust God. Let Him run your life. Does the Maker of the Universe and the Keeper of Time not know what's best?

Hallelujah!
~Marissa~

ER visit -- part 2

2011-01-17T17:23:00.001-08:00

Thanks for your prayers, everyone! Everything went very smoothly and Ian is home doing great! Andrea said that she was more squeemish at the hospital than he was! Here are the pictures.
Note: Don't continue if you dislike blood, wounds... etc.

Waiting for stitches

Before

After

Look how brave he was!
My brother is amazing. :)

God is good! Thanks again!

ER visit -- part 1

2011-01-17T09:17:00.001-08:00

Hey everyone,
My brother Ian cracked his head open in our basement this morning. Right now he's in the ER with my mom and Andrea. He was a little nervous about getting stitches and going to the hospital, so prayers would be very much appreciated!

I'll update you all later! Thanks so much!

So, what is love anyway?

2011-01-15T16:59:00.001-08:00

When someone says, "I love you", what do they actually mean by that? Who gets to decide what love is? How do we know?

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.
1 John 3:16

GOD is the definition of love. Without knowing God, you can't love.
I like this quote by C.S. Lewis (one of my favorite authors ever... )

"You cannot love a fellow-creature fully till you love God."

If you want to know how to love, seek God. His love is so incredible, human love just can't compare. The only way to love other people is by letting God love through us.

Many people think love is a feeling, an emotion, something that comes and goes. Nope. We love because God loves. We choose to love.

Love isn't a feeling, it's a decision, and making a decision requires taking action.

That action is loving someone whether you feel like it or not! Sometimes people bug us, sometimes they drive us crazy, but we need to decide to love no matter what... because that's what God does. His love is so amazing.

So, love is God. God is love. That's what it is. It's always, it's whether we feel like it or not, it's unconditional. Make it a goal to love like our God!

When the time is right...

2011-01-10T11:30:00.000-08:00

When the time was right,
the sea parted,
the walls fell down,
the lions went hungry,
the sun stood still,
the waves were calm,
the stone was rolled away,
the clouds were parted,
the Lord ascended...
And when the time is right,
the King of Kings will return.

God is never early and He's never late--
He's always right on time and His plan for you is good.

--Dayspring

New Year's Resolutions anyone?

2011-01-01T16:01:00.000-08:00

I think something might be wrong with me! As I finally sat down today to put together a New Year's Resolution's list, I could hardly think of one resolution. Normally I'm quite the list-maker. I enjoy setting goals for myself... but this year I just can't do it.

As I looked back on my 2010 resolutions, I had to realize how much has changed since then. I had no idea what God had in store at the beginning of the year. He has been SO faithful.

Right now I'm trying to decide what to do this year. Should I go to college? Maybe I should be homeschooled another year... possibly both? There are so many things I'm uncertain of! It's then that I have to remind myself, "God has NEVER let me down. He's always been in control. For 17 years God's been nothing but faithful to me. Why would He stop now?"

This holiday season has been one of the best, most fun ever. Still, I've been realizing lately that the joy I have had recently doesn't come because it's Christmas or New Year's. Although these have been great days, I've realized that my whole year, my life, is incredible. Joy isn't something that comes with the holiday. Joy is something that creeps up on you slowly and increases each day. Joy is a way of living. Joy is Jesus Christ.

Well, I realize that these paragraphs don't have much to do with each other.... they're all just some things that have been going through my mind lately. :)

As we start into 2011, I'm expecting and knowing that God's going to do amazing things. He has plans greater than we could ever imagine!

When we live for Jesus, every moment of life is more exciting!

~Love. Joy. Jesus.~

Christmas break--Bowling! :)

2010-12-29T08:55:00.000-08:00

This would be me trying to get a good picture... didn't work so well. :) haha

Last week (yes, I'm way behind on this post) we got some friends together to go bowling during break. :)

Elaina

Sarah and Melanie :)

Tori and me

Trying different techniques...

...we're not the greatest bowlers in the world... but we had lots of fun!
Hey, we had food (you can't really see it in the picture), so it's all good. :) haha

Buddies
Ian and Matt

My sister!

Andrea was busy bowling and didn't get too many pictures, and mine... well... don't compare with hers! But we got some. :)

Hope everyone's Christmas season is going great!

Christmas... all because of an amazing God

2010-12-23T16:41:00.000-08:00

"Well, Pharisees couldn’t stand Him,
but they found out they couldn’t stop Him.
Pilot couldn’t find any fault in Him.
The witnesses couldn’t get their testimonies to agree.
Herod couldn’t kill Him.
Death couldn’t handle Him and the grave couldn’t hold Him. THATS MY KING! DO YOU KNOW HIM?"

-Matthew Alashari

I just had to repost that cause I think it's pretty great. Our God is AMAZING! We don't always understand what He's doing in our lives, but He's always good and He always has a plan! Just wait it out... and seek and serve Him while doing so!

Hope you all have a blessed Christmas.

"Hallelujah! The King is here, given for all men..."

I'm posting-- with pictures!!

2010-12-15T17:34:00.000-08:00

Impressive, right? Maybe...? :)

Getting our Christmas tree...

That's the one!

Seth: "What did they do with their snow? Last time we came here they had snow!"

When we got home, we realized that the tree has a pretty big bald spot... so we put that in the corner. You can still see it though. haha :)

watch this.

2010-12-01T18:32:00.000-08:00

But if we are the Body
Why aren't His arms reaching...?

True Friends

2010-11-30T18:00:00.000-08:00

A true, godly friendship is based on what the friends have in common--God. In order for the friendship to be strong, the thing that bonds it needs to be stronger, and that is each person's relationship with Jesus. Read these verses about Daniel and his true friends before Daniel interpreted the king's dream:

¹⁷ Then Daniel returned to his house and explained the matter to his friends Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. ¹⁸ He urged them to plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that he and his friends might not be executed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon.

Daniel 2:17-18

These were true friends! What held them together was their personal relationships with the One who made them all. They never let their friendship with each other get in the way of their relationship with the Lord.

When there was trouble, Daniel went to his friends. He didn't pour out his problems to them, but he told them what was happening and asked them to pray. Do our friends know that they can come to us when they need prayers? Are we intercessors on the behalf's of our sisters and brothers?

When Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah (Shadrach, Meshach and Abendego) were told to bow down to King Nebuchadnezzar's idol, they had the courage to refuse because Christ was the driving force in every one of their relationships and decisions. The easily could have bowed down and to save their lives (and keep their friendship), but they chose God first. Look what He did! He saved them anyway!

One last thing... I heard the song "More Than You'll Ever Know" by Watermark the other day. Here's the chorus:

You've been more than a friend to me
You fight off my enemies
'Cause you've spoken truth over my life
And you'll never know what it means to me
Just to know you've been on your knees for me
Oh, you have blessed my life
More than you'll ever know...

Wow! What power we have in the lives of the people around us through prayer!

20 Things I'm Thankful For

2010-11-26T09:04:00.000-08:00

Well, I decided that I need to get back on top of keeping up my blog! I've really been slacking on it for some reason... so I'll start with 20 real things I'm thankful for. I know it's after thanksgiving, but shouldn't we be thankful every day?

1) Freedom in Christ
2) Family in Christ
3) New Hope Church
4) Music
5) Hope
6) Books
7) My small town:)
8) God's Word
9) Sun and warmth
10) Cousins
11) Dancing
12) Creativity
13) Work made fun
14) Food
15) A healthy body
16) A secure family
17) Persecution
18) The Internet
19) Forgiveness
20) Abundant life!

Re-post 20 things you're thankful for!

Challenge

2010-11-03T18:09:00.000-07:00

Engraft this verse:

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.

It actually works. I didn't realize until a few days later. I wasn't even trying to memorize this or meditate on it. I emailed it to a friend and therefore was thinking about it, then I realized that the last few days God has actually been helping ME to be strong and courageous! It's so amazing! God's Word does powerful things in our lives even when we don't realize it!

See for yourself!

Victory in Jesus Christ!

2010-09-20T12:01:00.000-07:00

We hear that a lot, but how often do we really realize that it's true? We're don't have to fight these battles alone. First of all, we know that we have victory, because Jesus has conquered! Second, God has given us people to help us fight our battles. We're all struggling with things... many of them the same as others. We don't realize that we need to stick together and fight!

Saturday we went to a fantastic youth rally and I heard this example. You're in a battle and you have 10 people to fight. Your enemy has 5 people, so you know that you can beat them easily. You send one man out to fight the enemy. Of course, he gets defeated (5-1, right?). You send another man. He's defeated as well. This continues to happen until your whole army is defeated! Why did this happen? It was 10-5?!?!? Of course it was because you sent out your men alone! If everyone would have fought together, you would have won!

This is what we do as Christians! God has given us family in Christ to help us in our weaknesses! We need to stay together and fight, knowing that we can win only through Jesus Christ.

Don't fight your battles alone.

Please pray

2010-09-08T15:17:00.000-07:00

Right now my parents are on their way to Ohio to visit my grandpa. He's been in and out of the hospital for a couple years now. Yesterday he went in and it was pretty serious. He had surgery this afternoon with a 50% chance of coming out alive. I don't know all the medical details, but he did make it out of the surgery.

Dad and Mom took the three little kids and are dropping them off to stay at my other grandparents. In the morning my parents will go the rest of the way to the hospital. Andrea and I are here at home and staying at a family friend's house for the night.

Please pray for my grandpa and the rest of the family with him, traveling safety for my parents, safety for Andrea and I here, and that my family would be able to be a light to our extended family these next few days.

Thanks so much,
Marissa

September already?

2010-09-02T19:44:00.000-07:00

Wow, the summer sure flew by fast! I can say I am looking forward to fall, though! So many fun things happening and a new season of life starting! :)

Last Tuesday I took my road test and passed! I'm officially a licensed driver now. :) Praise God for blessing and watching out for us the other day. It was a kind of hectic morning.

I was supposed to be taking my test at 10:00 on Tuesday. At 9:15, my mom and I were finally getting out the door. I wanted to get there early so that I could practice parallel parking for a little while (I hadn't done it much in our van). When we got in the van, we found out we didn't have current registration for it. After looking around for a few minutes, we figured it must be in my dad's car so we though the best decision would be to drive to his work and check. We figured that if wasn't there, we could at least switch cars and I could use his.

At about 9:30 we arrived at his work and fortunately he was able to come out and help us. UNfortunately, he didn't have the van's registration.... or the car's. Now I didn't have any car to drive, and it was too late to go home and ask our neighbor, we'd never make it back on time.

We had tried calling my aunt multiple times about using her car, but she was with a patient and couldn't answer. Finally, 10 minutes before the test, we got a hold of her. She works literally across the street from where the test was going to be and, of course, she HAD current registration for her car. :) We were able to run over there and she let me use her car for the test (what a HUGE blessing!). We actually got to the parking lot about 5 minutes before 10:00 and I was still able to practice parking for a couple minutes. :) The test ended up going fantastic, even though I'd never driven her car before. THANK YOU, AUNT ROSE!!!! :)

God always knows what He's doing, doesn't He?!?! No matter how confused or frustrated we feel about a situation, He's in control. :)

Another thought.....

I read Proverbs 16:9 yesterday which says,
"In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps."

As teenagers, we're often confused about the future and what God wants us to do. Often I find myself making my own plans for myself but being afraid that I'm not following God's plans for my life. This verse is so comforting to me because it reminds me of this,
"If God wants you to do something, you'll do it. You're not going to miss an opportunity that He wants you to have."
God's got great plans for my life. He's not going to let me get around them. :) Keep trusting.

Trust is really a hard thing for me sometimes, but God's proved Himself faithful again and again. Sometimes I wonder why I can't remember that.... :)

Perfect Peace

2010-08-22T18:47:00.000-07:00

Hard Things

2010-08-20T12:03:00.000-07:00

Note:
~This post was supposed to go before the last one, but somehow blogger published it after~

As I'm sitting here waiting for pictures to upload for a post about our summer trip, I realized, "I've been posting about what I'm doing this summer, how I'm having fun, and endless pictures." Fun posts and pictures are by no means bad or wrong at all, but I figured I should really post about something worthwhile.

I just started the book Start Here by Alex and Brett Harris. After reading Do Hard Things last year, I knew I couldn't miss this book! Only a few chapters into the book, I have been so encouraged that God does have hard things for us to do right where we are. Some may be big-- like raising money for a new well on the other side of the world. Some may be "small"-- helping an elderly person scrape snow of their car or befriending a stranger. The main thing is learning to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit wherever you are. God has jobs for us, we just need to learn how to listen and obey.

I started the book last night and since then my mind has been swirling with hard things that I can do for the Lord, some big and some not-s0-big. My siblings and I have a nursing home ministry that we've been doing for a while now. We usually go to a certain facility once a month and play for the residents, and recently I've felt that God would like me to add another place that we go. I found somewhere that we've been before and my mom also thought it would be a good place to call, but talking to people I don't know is not something I love to do. I really felt like God wanted me to do it, but I really didn't want to. My mom offered to do it for me, but I decided that this was a hard thing I needed to do, besides, it will get easier every time, right? :) So I called, and it ended up being a lot easier than I thought. I don't know what they'll decide, but it's up to God now, and I did a hard thing for Him!

My point being: pick a hard thing and do it! Don't wait. Make a list of steps you need to do leading up to your final goal. Ask for God's blessing and plunge in!

Soli Deo Gloria-- always!!!

Marissa

There and back again... more summer

2010-08-17T17:33:00.000-07:00

And now for a fun post--with pictures. :) Andi and I (mostly Andi) took so many pictures on this trip, and this is just a few of them. I had trouble weeding them out!

Last weekend we went up north with our very good friends and enjoyed getting to see them again! We've been going up almost every year since Andrea was born, so it's always something we look forward to.

Ian with our God-sister Talitha. This is the first time we've seen her when she's actually really talking- a lot! She is so sweet!

She and the boys got along so well!

Saturday we went to Lake Michigan and swam, ran on the sand dunes, and looked for Petoskey stones. I found this really neat one right on top of the sand!

~Discovery Center~
Someone managed to catch a picture of Andrea smiling. :) I'm not sure she enjoyed this part as much as the rest of us.

The challenge was to stack these magnets up to the paper. It was a little harder than we thought, but we did it! Teamwork! Mom couldn't get any closer with the camera because apparently the magnetic pull is so strong that it ruins electronics.

Gecko

More swimming in the lake.

Sisters

Sailing

Andi and I with our God-brother Luke.

Awww

Right before leaving for home. We went to a different part of Lake Michigan a few hours before we got in the car for the 3+ hour drive home. Unfortunately our family aren't very good travelers, so 3 hours to us seems like a long time. :)

Now that fair and going to the cottage are over for the summer, we're not very busy and are just enjoying the last few days of the summer! God's faithfulness has been evident all year and I'm looking forward to seeing what He's going to do this fall/winter. It's hard to trust sometimes, but I know that God has the perfect plans for my life always. I've been wrestling with doubting and trusting the last few days... and it's good to know that God's always in control of our lives.

What's been keeping you busy this summer?

In Christ,
Marissa

Fair week 2010!

2010-08-09T18:46:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun last week! Getting projects done and getting the animals ready this summer has been a blast! Now fair has come and gone! Here are some pictures:

Working in the kitchen :)

Photography judging

Our little 5-8 year old showing his rabbit. Isn't he adorable?

He got a little nervous up there... but he was still cute! :) haha

My sister!

Showing

Decoupage

Cross-stitch

Glass painting

Andrea's photography

Small animal auction

She had the best smile up there. :)

I can't wait to start working on fair projects for next year! And to get our animals. :)

Blessings!
Marissa

Quote for the day

2010-07-30T18:09:00.000-07:00

"Am I like Him in my thoughts and in the way I spend my time? If He were physically living on earth right now, would He do what I am doing? Would He not choose His words more carefully than I do? Would silly speech come from His lips? Would He enjoy my friends? Would He spend a fortune pampering His body, and swallow enough food at one meal to feed hungry people for a week? Would He be fashion-conscious, even if that made His appearance ridiculous and offensive? Would His hands be busy with games that drive time away? Should I do anything that would make me unlike Christ?"

-William Gurnall

Poor blog...

2010-07-23T13:22:00.000-07:00

Wow! I just realized that I haven't posted on here for a few weeks.
We've been insanely busy over here this month, but having lots of fun, too. :) 4-H projects have been overwhelming and that's been taking up a lot of time. We're learning SO much this year though. :)
This week we've been running constantly every day. Today we finally got a few hours of rest for which we are very thankful. I should probably post something of value rather than just write about us...

Well, this week God has really been showing us how much He is in control and how quickly things can change. We had an unexpected death of a much-loved elder in our church Saturday night. It was pretty shocking and we were just amazed at how quickly a life can be taken. We know that God is in control of every situation, though! It has been amazing this week to see the peace and love shown in his family (and whole family in Christ).

This morning I woke up and found out that our neighbor's house had been burned to the ground. It's completely gone. Fortunately everybody is safe and God really protected them. They seem to be doing well and are peaceful about the situation, though.

God is in control! Are you ready for whatever He may be bringing tomorrow?

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Here's a couple pictures from earlier this week... just for fun. :)
In this midst of craziness... we've been having lots of fun this week. On Wednesday was our annual church picnic at the park, which was super fun! This week Elaina has been in a homeschool performing arts day camp, so we're going to see the final performance tonight. :) I'm sure that will be lots of fun! Just a glimpse of what's going on here.... :)

A True Servant

2010-07-02T18:57:00.000-07:00

Characteristics of a True Servant

A true servant:
-Knows that all assignments are actually from God
-Will be quick to volunteer
-Considers his assignment important
-Takes orders
-Does not desire to have authority
-Will do what others do not or will not do
-Enjoys meeting needs
-Doesn't need recognition
-Will voluntarily serve without pay
-Doesn't seek higher status
-Will do more than is required
-Does not have his own selfish ambitions
-Will serve anyone-even those whom others don't like to serve
-Is willing to be treated like a servant
-Does not seek the "big" and "important" assignments
-Will serve with a joyful attitude
-Will put his whole heart into each task
-Thinks of others before himself
-Desires that his master receives the credit
-Desires that God receives the glory

-from Making Brothers and Sisters Best Friends

Why be a servant?
-Because Jesus was a servant and our goal is to imitate Him!
-Because our happiness comes from giving and not getting, no matter how backwards that may seem. :)
-Because God loves His children and wants us to love them, too.

Quote for the day....

2010-06-24T10:04:00.000-07:00

The sun is always glorious, even on the most cloudy day, but this glory is not apparent until it has scattered the clouds which hide its light from the earth. God is glorious even when the world cannot see Him, but the demonstration of His glory appears when the glories of His mercy, truth, and faithfulness break forth in His people's salvation.
-William Gurnall

Summer reading

2010-06-20T14:52:00.000-07:00

Summer is here.... time to get some reading done! :)... hopefully.
I thought I'd do a short list of five of my favorite books....

1) The Teenage Years of Jesus Christ
-Pastor Jerry Ross
This may be my favorite and one of the most life-changing books I've ever read. It's SO good! :)

2) Mere Christianity
-C.S. Lewis

3) Set-Apart Femininity
-Leslie Ludy

4) So Much More
-Anna Sophia and Elizabeth Botkin

5) Before You Meet Prince Charming
-Sarah Mally

Happy reading!! :)

Tired and discouraged...

2010-06-14T14:48:00.000-07:00

Today has been pretty long....
I was feeling really discouraged and tired a little while ago (and still am a bit!). Everything was just frustrating me and I didn't feel like there was much reason to be happy. We were driving home... and made a wrong turn (so it took lots longer). One of the Wissman's CD's was playing and one of my favorite songs came on:

In Christ Alone, my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song.....

I remembered that I DO have a reason to be joyful and that my happiness is found in CHRIST ALONE!!!! What a wonderful promise. :)

That was a short post, sorry.... but I need to get going now and I just thought that was a good reminder.

~Marissa

Friendship Afghan FUN!! :)

2010-06-09T19:36:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! I just found out that Eden is organizing a Friendship Afghan project. Each person will make a certain number of squares, the squares get sent out to the different participants, and then you get to sew together the squares you receive. Hopefully I understood that right.... :) You can read about it more over at Eden's blog... check it out!

Thanks so much for doing this, Eden!!! What a neat idea. :)

A visit to the zoo!

2010-06-08T12:09:00.000-07:00

Last weekend our grandparents took us to the zoo! :) It was wonderful to see so many of God's amazing creatures in one place. Thank you, Grandpa and Grandma!

The boys got to feed the giraffes. I remember doing that probably five or more years ago... hopefully Ian and Seth will remember it for a long time, too!

They did everything they could to try and wake him up... but he didn't want to move. :)

Ian's favorite :)

My sweet little brother!

Look at the size and strength of these animals! Isn't it amazing that our God created them and He is WAY bigger and stronger?!?!?!

These guys were my favorite I think. :) It was so cute to see the way they scurried around.

Doesn't he look majestic?

~siblings~

Emily, we didn't get any pictures of elephants because we found out they had to get rid of them! How sad... :(

Haha :) It started raining at the end of the day. Seth tried to wear a poncho, but it was dragging on the ground... so he took it off. :)

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature--have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.
Romans 1:20

We are completely without excuse! God clearly reveals himself to each and every one of His children. Do you really think all this came about by random processes and CHANCE?

Soli Deo Gloria!!!
~Marissa

A friend

2010-06-01T12:41:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 17:17
A friend loves at all times,
and a brother is born for adversity.

Are we loving at ALL times?

10 good uses of the time God's given you

2010-05-29T15:53:00.000-07:00

I know that most of the time we are running crazily and not at a loss for things to do (especially you homeschoolers with a lot of siblings :D). That's usually the case for me. Once in a while though, I will have time when things are done and I just am not sure what to do! Later I realize that there are tons of things I could and should have done and wonder why I couldn't see it. :) I decided to make a list of worthwhile things to do whether I feel like I don't know what to do or just feel like I'm not using my time wisely. If any of you have this problem ever, I hope this helps you as well! :)

1) Build into the lives of your siblings
Some ideas: Play a game with them, do a creative art project, make a fort, bake something, write them an encouraging note, take a walk.... etc.

2) Bible reading, study, meditation and prayer
This is an obvious one that we sometimes put off or just leave it because "we already did that today". I'm pretty sure you can't have too much of any of these. :)

3) Ask one of your parents or siblings if they need help with any of their responsibilities (and help them). :)

4) Read
What a wonderful and fun way to learn so many different things!

5) Cooking and baking
This is not only fun and improves your skills, but the results can also be a blessing to your family, neighbors, or...... pretty much anyone! :)

6) Write a letter
Don't you love getting letters in the mail? So does almost everyone else! God will often place someone on your heart that may need encouragement, or just pick someone you know. :) Whether it's just a few sentences saying you're thinking about them or a 5-page letter, people really appreciate you taking the time to write to them and it makes them feel special. :)

7) Work on a nursing home ministry
Spend some time preparing a few songs for you and your siblings to share. People LOVE this! Also, make sure you spend some time talking with the residents if you do this. They especially love seeing families together. :)

8) Use any homemaking skills you have learned
Sewing, knitting, crocheting (there are so many more)...
Make a baby blanket or find another neat pattern and make it for someone else or for your family.

9) Spend time learning or practicing an instrument
It's 1% talent/skill and 99% hard work. :)

10) Get extra responsibilities done
For example: tomorrow's schoolwork, pick up your bedroom... things that don't need to be done now, but you might as well get them done while you have time!

There are so many more worthwhile ways to spend your time, but here are a few ideas. :) Try making your own list to use when you need it! Any ideas you'd like to add to this list?

Let's be set-apart and use God's time wisely! It's so sad to see the way so many teenagers waste their (God's) time. These are some of the most important years of our life and we can do so many things to serve God right now!

~Marissa

Andrea's new blog

2010-05-26T16:08:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

Andrea started a photography blog! Check it out My Father's World Photography at:
mfwphotography.blogspot.com

She loves glorifying God through taking pictures, so we decided that she would start her own blog, and I'll keep posting on this one. :)

Enjoy!

Blessings,
Marissa

On the farm

2010-05-25T13:31:00.000-07:00

Andrea and I enjoyed watching Ian attempting to lead the sheep the other day. They're getting pretty strong, but so is he, as he proved! :)

Ian was so happy when he finally was able to get him all the way across the pasture! :)
"Touch the post!!!"
He did it! :) haha

What a happy little boy... he's such a joy to be around!

Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
John 4:13-14

Serving the King,
Marissa

Buddies :) ... and other random pictures

2010-05-22T12:07:00.000-07:00

A few mornings ago I went to get my brothers up and found them snuggled up together in Seth's bed. :) I'm so glad my brothers have each other and that they're best friends (even though they have their arguments)!

Other pictures from this month:

Lilacs

Andrea trying to get the cat to cooperate. :)

That's all for now. :) We're getting ready to leave for Andrea's second-to-last soccer game.....

In Christ,
Marissa

4-H cake decorating-meeting #2

2010-05-13T13:59:00.000-07:00

Last night was our second 4-H cake decorating meeting. I'm having SO much fun learning and getting to try different things on these cakes. :) We still have lots of things to learn but I thought I'd post the cakes we've done.

This is mine from yesterday:

And here's Elaina's:

I hope everyone is having a great week! We're getting lots of rain here.... good for the yard! :) We got bees a few days ago though and they're not doing so well with the colder weather. Oh well, the sun will come back soon! :)

Blessings,
Marissa

Creation Vacation!

2010-05-02T17:26:00.000-07:00

I'm finally getting around to posting about the Creation Museum. :) We had SUCH a fun trip! Andrea took lots of pictures... :)

This one is out of order... sorry.

Okay, from the beginning!

It was about a five hour drive from here. Not bad, but Seth got tired on the way there. We ALL got tired on the way home. :)

This is for the Calhouns. :)

Umm... Andrea was... having fun during the drive.

We stayed at a campground about 20 minutes from the museum. It was beautiful!

Thank you, Uncle Tom and Aunt Robbie for going with us! We had so much fun with you!

We walked down to the Ohio River and took lots of pictures.

My brothers are the best! :)

Finally.... at the Creation Museum!

A miniature Noah's ark. It was so neat!

And.... a bigger one. :)

What an awesome and encouraging place! I'm so glad we were finally able to go check it out. :) It really encouraged me to learn more about creationism and defending my faith. Don't just believe it, live it and share it!

Our God is an AWESOME God!

~Marissa

Face paint fun :)

2010-04-27T14:06:00.000-07:00

Elaina painted these snakes on Seth while we were babysitting the other day... isn't she a fun sister?

Tomorrow we're leaving for the Creation Museum!!! I'm so excited! I'll post pictures when we get back. Have a wonderful week!

~Marissa

~Sisters~... and a busy week :)

2010-04-22T16:27:00.000-07:00

Whew! This week we've been running non-stop! Which is partially why this post is so short. :)

I've been trying to focus on being patient even when things feel overwhelming. This passage was a blessing to me today:

Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Romans 5:3-4

God uses days like these to work on my character!

The JOY of the Lord is my strength! :)

Blessings,
Marissa

Consistant Bible reading

2010-04-17T16:27:00.001-07:00

Earlier today I was reading Jenna's post about self-control and daily Bible reading. I was thinking about how many of us have a hard time committing ourselves to reading God's Word each day, and decided to share some things that have helped me.

1) Force yourself to get up early
*Ahem*.... I'm not very good at this one... It's something I'm working on!
It often helps me to think of Psalm 118:24 in the morning when I don't want to get out of bed:

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

2) Don't do anything else until it's done.
I know this can be impossible often, especially if you didn't get up when you wanted to. For example, we do family devotions at 8:30 each morning, and I can't change the time on that or be late because of my own quiet time. Or perhaps I *ahem* got up late and didn't have time to do it before we had to leave for something. So I just try not to do anything that I have any choice over before I do my quiet time. It may be 11:00p.m. by the time I get to it, but it works for me (although I try my very best to get it done in the morning!).

3) Keep a journal
You don't have to write much in it. I write the date, the passage I read, my verse of the day, anything that stood out to me, what I'm memorizing, what I'm personally working on for that day.... etc. Some days when I have less time I don't write much except the date and passage. Even if that's all you do, it keeps you accountable. Since I started doing this last April, I have never yet missed a day of Bible reading, even if it's only a chapter. I don't want to be missing any dates in my notebook! :)

Well, those are the three main things that I use to help make Bible reading a priority. Do you have anything to add to the list?

But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night.
Psalm 1:2

To God be the glory!
Marissa

Quote of the week...

2010-04-15T12:15:00.000-07:00

"If sinners will be damned, at least let them leap to hell over our bodies, and if they perish, let them perish with our arms around their knees, imploring them to stay. If hell must be filled, at least let it be filled in the teeth of our exhortations, and let no one go there unwarned or unprayed for."
-Charles Haddon Spurgeon

I finished my blanket!

2010-04-10T09:36:00.000-07:00

I'm finally finished! :) Yay! Actually I finished it a couple of weeks ago but I just haven't uploaded the pictures until now... so here they are. :)

Thanks so much, Eden, for doing the knit/crochet along! I had a lot of fun working on this project. :)

Happy 11th Birthday, Elaina!!

2010-04-10T06:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our dear sister, Elaina's, birthday! She turned eleven and is growing up so fast!! I am so glad to have such a wonderful sister as her! She has blessed my life in many ways and has brought much joy to our family. God is so good!

Energetic
Loving
Awesome
Interested in others
Nurturing
Amazing

You are an amazing girl, Elaina! My love forever, sweet girl!

In Christ,
Andrea

Just Trust God

2010-04-08T16:48:00.001-07:00

Three words. But it's harder than it sounds, isn't it?

I'm gonna keep this short.

God wants us to trust Him. He made you, He knew everything about you before you were born. He made every singe person in your life, every situation is known by Him before it happens. Don't you think He's going to take care of you?

I know it's easy to get frustrated, flustered, worried, concerned, and anxious. It's not worth it. "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" (Luke 12:25) Go to God with every concern, every anxious thought, every worry. Give it to Him, don't worry, trust. Rest in the knowledge that His protective, loving arms are around you. Just trust God.

"If you're worried, pray, and if you've prayed, don't worry."
-Unknown

You Alone Can Rescue

2010-04-04T13:41:00.000-07:00

You Alone Can Rescue
by Matt Redman and Jonas Myrin

Who O Lord could save themselves,
Their own soul could heal?
Our shame was deeper than the sea,
Your grace is deeper still.

You alone can rescue,
You alone can save.
You alone can lift us from the grave.
You came down to find us,
led us out of death.
To You alone belongs the highest praise.

You O Lord have made a way,
The great divide You healed.
For when our hearts were far away,
Your love went further still.
Yes, Your love goes further still.

You alone can rescue,
You alone can save.
You alone can lift us from the grave.
You came down to find us,
led us out of death.
To You alone belongs the highest praise.

This is such an amazing song about God's saving power over death! All the praise and glory goes to Him!

Have a wonderful Easter remembering Christ's power and love!
~Marissa

Peace challenge report!

2010-04-02T18:59:00.001-07:00

Isaiah 26:3
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trust in You.

Another month has gone by! This month Jenna did a challenge on peace.

During a busy month, this was a wonderful way to remember that God is my peace and with His peace in my heart, life is much... better! :)

1 Corinthians 14:33a
For God is not a God of disorder but of peace.

In a house like ours, life can get pretty hectic sometimes. Often I get frustrated because things feel out of control. As I worked on pursuing the peace of God in my heart, I was able to see more clearly, take a step back and remember that God is in control!

Colossians 3:15
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

Another side of peace....

I can think of at least two different definitions for peace.

1) The kind of peace that you need when things feel crazy all around you. God gives us this peace so that even when the world seems to be spinning non-stop, we can still rest in Him.

2) Peace with others. Being a peacemaker in every relationship and situation, especially with our family in Christ.

Psalm 37:37
Consider the blameless, observe the upright; there is a future for the man of peace.

How do you think God feels when His children don't love each other? Probably much more sad than a human parent feels when siblings aren't getting along.

Psalm 34:14
Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.

All the time, you can be a peacemaker! Be the one who brings peace to every situation.

1 Corinthians 7:15b
God has called us to live in peace.

Remember that God wants us to find peace in Him. Memorizing and meditation on some of these verses really helped me this month. Thinking about them when you're not feeling very peaceful actually brings peace to your heart!

Psalm 29:11
The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses
His people with peace.

In Christ,
~Marissa

He is not here; He has risen!

2010-03-30T17:31:00.000-07:00

Well... Easter's coming up this week! What an amazing celebration!

Sometimes it's easy for Easter to just fly by. We've been thinking and talking about Easter a lot this week. Think about it. This is the most important holiday for us as Christians! Yes, Christmas is VERY important as well, it's the birth of our Savior! But if we stop there, what kind of faith do we have? No, the story doesn't end at that!

We have a God who not only came to the earth in the form of a baby.... He took on the sins of the whole world. We are forgiven because of what He did for us! Imagine the pain the came not only from the nails, but from having the sin of the whole world upon your shoulders? We celebrate God's incredible forgiveness and compassion on us at Easter... but that's not all.

After being crucified and laid in a tomb, 3 days later Jesus ROSE FROM THE DEAD! Imagine that! He conquered death and rose up in victory! What other god could do that? Ours is the only true and perfect God and King!

I thought I'd share with you some reasons I learned a couple Easter's ago why Jesus absolutely rose from the dead and it could not have been a story.
1) Breaking the seal to a tomb was punishable by death.
2) The disciples could not have gotten past the guards (more than 2) and stolen Jesus' body.
3) There was no way that Jesus could fake dead. His heart was punctured, He could not have rolled away a 2 ton rock.
4) They could not have hallucinated Jesus (after He rose). No two people have the same hallucinations.

As the rest of the world is celebrating fluffy bunnies and candy, let us realize the true meaning of Easter, stand for the truth, and shine for Jesus!

Luke 24:5-6
"Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; He has risen!"

He is faithful!

2010-03-27T15:22:00.000-07:00

The One who calls you is faithful and He will do it.
I Thessalonians 5:24

Yesterday as I was getting more and more worried about my piano solo today, I sat down to do my quiet time. I've been reading this short book (I Thessalonians) every day for over two weeks now, but this verse really struck me yesterday.

I realized that this really didn't have much to do with me. The reason that I was doing this is for God's glory! This was something He called me to, so He was going to see it through! My only responsibility was to do the best I could and leave the rest up to Him.

Guess what? When I gave it up and simply trusted, God blessed incredibly! I must admit, there were plenty of moments when I was doubtful and started to turn to my own strength, but God used this experience to show me once again the He is in control!

As always, He did it! I'm so glad it's over ☺, but more importantly I was reminded of a wonderful lesson.

Isn't it amazing that when we simply trust God, He works everything out according to His perfect plan?

Super fun week :)

2010-03-26T15:40:00.000-07:00

This week we had our aunt and cousin over from across the country! We had SO much fun with them! It was especially nice for them to visit because we haven't seen them in a few years. :(

~Cousins~
On our last day with them. :(

Our grandparents came up today to take them to the airport. Before they left though we all went bowling! It was lots of fun... even though we're really bad at it! Thank you, Grandpa and Grandma!

Some other things we did while they were here....

Our aunt taught us how to make real hula hoops... and how to use them. :)

Ian and Chris hooping.... or something... :)

Bunnies!

They were also a HUGE help in transporting all of the instruments to the nursing home... it just happened to be scheduled while they were here and I don't think we could have done it without them!

My sweet sister :)

We went go-karting at a neighbors while they were here while was really fun! :) Seth and I were watching...

We were so sad to see them go today, but it was such a blessing to get to visit this week.

As I was thinking about missing them today, I realized how special each person is if you take the time to get to know them. If we moved from here, we would really miss everyone! What a good lesson that we should love each of God's children as much as we possibly can while we have them, because you really never know when you could lose someone.

Alright, I'm off to practice piano before solo and ensemble tomorrow.... looking forward to that being DONE!

Have a wonderful weekend!

~Marissa

The Prayer of a Five-Year-Old

2010-03-20T05:20:00.000-07:00

At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure."
Matthew 11:25-26

"Mom and Dad, would you cuddle me in (my brothers' words for tuck me in ☺)?"
"Sure... goodnight."
"Goodnight... wait! I want to pray for you both!

Dear God,
Thank You for my parents, thank You for my mom and dad, thank You for the house..... and guide us with Your angels....
Amen."

For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways...
Psalm 91:11

12 reasons to read the Bible every day

2010-03-18T14:29:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading the book Ten P's in a Pod by Arnold Pent III. It was not only very entertaining, but also a really encouraging book! Learning about the Pent family and their sold-out devotion to Jesus Christ was so motivating to me.

One of the things that really stands out is their family's diligence and determination to spend so much time in the Word of God. In one of the chapters is this list about why we should spend time in the Bible every day.

1. The Lord commands it. "Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee." 1 Timothy 4:15-16

2. I want to be fruitful. "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing." John 15:4-5

3. I want to know true doctrine. "Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on Him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:31-32

4. I want to be clean. "Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you." John 15:3

5. I want my prayers answered. "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." John 15:7

6. I want to be prosperous and successful. "This book of the law shall not depart out of they mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success." Joshua 1:8

7. I don't want to backslide. "The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide." Psalm 37:31

8. I want my soul fed. "And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord doth man live." Deuteronomy 8:3

9. I want to grow. "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby." 1 Peter 2:2

10. I want understanding. "I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation." Psalm 119:99

11. I want real life. "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life." John 6:63

12. I want to be thoroughly furnished to every good work. "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."

God's Word is powerful and influences our attitudes, opinions and actions. What could be a better way to get to know the Author of creation than to read His letter to us?

Have you been reading any good books lately?

In Christ,
Marissa

HE will see it through...

2010-03-17T18:45:00.000-07:00

Philippians 1:6
...being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

The Beginning of Spring....

2010-03-11T10:16:00.000-08:00

We are SO enjoying the nice weather we've had here the last few days! Here are some pictures...

My sweet sisters :)

Ian's almost ALWAYS in shorts... winter or summer!

One of our newest additions...

They're still nameless after almost a week :)

I think our dad's pretty desperate to start outdoor gardening again! haha No, actually he's done an incredible job keeping things growing in the hoop house all winter! :)

Ian and Seth built a "birdhouse".....
I don't think birds actually like holes in a pile of wood chips very much... :)

Isaiah 26:3
You will keep in perfect peace
him whose mind is steadfast,
because he trusts in you.

As we've been going through normal, busy life, God has been teaching me the last few days that I can find peace in Him even when everything seems crazy. Although outwardly we may be running constantly, we can still have inner peace through Christ who is our peace.

Thought for the day....

2010-03-07T14:57:00.000-08:00

When reproached and persecuted by wicked men, look beyond them. Spend your wrath on Satan, who is your chief enemy. Men are only his puppets. They may be won to Christ's side and so become your friends at last. Anselm explains it in the following manner, "When the enemy comes riding up in battle, the valiant soldier is not angry with the horse, but with the horseman. He works to kill the rider so that he may possess the horse for his own use." Thus we must do with the wicked.

~From The Christian in Complete Armour by William Gurnall

I thought that was a pretty neat quote. :)

Joy- February's Challenge

2010-03-05T09:37:00.000-08:00

Alright, I'm doing my report on Jenna's February challenge--JOY!

Here are some verses that helped me this month:

Habakkuk 3:18- Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.
Isaiah 55:12 - You will go out with joy and be led forth in peace...
Psalm 51:12 - Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and grand me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Nehemiah 8:10 - Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.

5 of the things that brought me joy:

1. Little boys :) They bring SO much joy and to my life! I love my brothers (and sisters!!!)!
2. Fresh, clean air and SUNSHINE
3. God's Word! I can know the Greatest Author because of His Book.
4. It brings me so much joy each morning to know that God has a plan for me and knows everything that's going to go on each day.
5. Friends and fellowship with other Christians.

Some people are just contagious with joy. Let it be your prayer that you would be so joyful that other people just have to smile! Remember though that joy isn't on the outside only.... true joy comes from Christ in you!

Blessings in Christ,
Marissa

Happy 14th birthday, Andrea!!!

2010-03-04T05:43:00.000-08:00

Today is Andrea's 14 birthday!!!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my best friend!

14 things about Andrea:

1. She's almost always happy :)
2. She likes photography
3. She loves to write and I love reading her stories!
4. She's good at making up recipes
5. Neon colors are her favorite
6. She loves animals
7. She plays cello and piano and has a great voice
8. She doesn't like snow very much
9. Spaghetti is her favorite food
10. She's a FUN babysitter
11. Soccer is her favorite sport
12. She has a heart for serving other people
13. She loves when people play with her hair and she loves doing other people's hair
14. She likes to read about adventure!

The last few days have been so warm.... almost like spring!
Well... almost 40 degrees anyway!

Isn't is awesome to be outside without a coat?!?
It's a birthday blessing for Andrea who is not really a winter person... :)

I love you, Andi!!!

~Marissa

Matthew 5:44 Challenge-Love

2010-03-02T14:19:00.000-08:00

Matthew 5:44
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you...

Jenna at Feminine Farmgirl did this challenge in January, but.... I missed it so I decided to do it (along with the joy challenge, which I'll post about later) in February! Here's my end-of-the-month report!

I decided to make an effort to show love to my sister, Elaina, last month. I was pretty consistent with praying for her every day... although I might have missed a couple... oops. Anyway, I think she enjoyed doing this things together, and I really enjoyed working on investing in her life and taking time to do things with/for her! Here are the four things I did:

1. Spent time crocheting with just her.
2. She loves to sing, so we played some songs that we like and found different ways to sing them together.
3. We tried to make a dessert called Sweet Nothings together. We've made them before and they were super good, but they didn't turn out this time.... and we almost blew up the beaters (well... it was sparking anyway)! Oh well... we had fun making them!
4. I wrote her a note telling her the things I loved about her and they joy that she brings to our family. :)

I had a wonderful time doing this challenge and I think that YOU should try it, too (if you didn't already)! Doing things for other people is such a great way to get the focus off of yourself and think about what other people like.

Thank you, Jenna, for doing this challenge! You are such a blessing. :)

1 John 4:7
Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.

~Marissa

Saving lives... one at a time.

2010-02-27T17:07:00.000-08:00

Earlier today our orchestra played at a local nursing home. We do this once a year for "ministry". Our goal today was to glorify God through music and to show others examples of homeschoolers and Christ-followers.

Before and during the performance we prayed that we would be able to be an example and a blessing to these people, but I wondered... "Is this really touching lives?", "Are they just waiting for us to be done?", "Can some of these people even hear?"

We finished, and I went up and sat by the door to wait for my parents (they were running errands). While I was waiting, a woman came up to me and started asking me about the homeschool group that we're in, homeschooling... etc. After a few minutes she went and sat down with a few other people. I heard her excitedly explaining to them what I had told her....

That made me smile. I remembered that God was concerned about each individual person. Even if she was the only one that cared, that's one person that we touched and were able to be a blessing to.

Remember that wherever you go, no matter what you're doing, you can set an example to the world of something different, something better! It may seem like no one cares, but usually, someone is watching! You have no idea how much one little act, opening a door, helping a sibling, a kind word, or a smile... etc. can brighten someone's day... or possibly change their life!

One more example:

Last month my sisters, brother and I were playing/singing at a different nursing home. While we were playing, one of the residents started talking to our mom. He asked her if we were homeschoolers. After she said yes, he started explaining how he could just tell by our countenance and joy and the way we treated each other (don't forget... your bright faces stand out!!!). A few days later we visited him in the nursing home, and the next week he started coming to our church!

Psalm 37:5-6
Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.

"If all mankind had been righteous and only one man a sinner, Christ would have come to endure the same cross for this one man. He so loves every individual."
-St. Augustine

I hope you all have a blessed day of rest tomorrow!
Serving the King,
Marissa

Meekness and Majesty

2010-02-26T09:30:00.000-08:00

We sang this song at a nursing home, and I just loved this second verse! :)

Father's pure radiance, perfect in innocence;
Yet learns obedience to death on a cross.
Suffering to give us life, conquering through sacrifice;
And as they crucify - prays, "Father, forgive."

Oh what a mystery, meekness and majesty;
Bow down and worship,
for this is your God.

I just got a new camera the other day and these are some of the pictures I took with it!

In Christ,
Andrea

Your days are in His hands

2010-02-23T16:47:00.000-08:00

Psalm 138:8a, 139:16b

The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me...
...All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be.

What a promise! Isn't it amazing to think that God has each and every one of our days planned out? Before we wake up, He knows exactly what is going to happen that day (and every day!).

This morning I was so excited to get started with my day and just.... happy! I realized the reason that I was so full of joy was because I was simply excited to see what this day held. I knew that God had a plan for each minute and I couldn't wait to find out what those plans were!

While I'm going to sleep at night, I love to reflect on my day. The things that I learned, the conversations that were had, what I got done... God's blessings on each and every day are unmistakable if you take the time to look for them.

I don't know if this makes any sense.... it's just what was running through my head at the moment!

Remember that God not only has a plan for your days... but an ultimate plan of how you will glorify Him with your entire life!

In Christ,
Marissa

Knit/Crochet-Along

2010-02-23T16:38:00.000-08:00

Eden over at Heirs of Promise is having a knit/crochet-along! I'm so excited! :) Anyway... if you would like to join, head on over to her blog and check out the details.

Here are the patterns to choose from:

9-Patch Baby Throw (crochet)

Hanover Hat (knit)

I decided to work on the baby throw because I love to crochet! (Plus I think it's really cute.) I have three other projects going on right now, but I'm really excited to do this so I'm going to try! Fortunately the baby I'm planning on giving it to isn't going to be born until June... so I have some time. :)

Have fun!
~Marissa

A Maiden's Warfare

2010-02-20T15:42:00.000-08:00

A Maiden's Warfare
by Carol A. DeLadurantey

Press on to heights of glory now,
And keep thou steady eye.

One must not falter in this fight,
Though some may flee of fly.

Take hold the charge thou hast been given,
To battle we must go.

But not with our own maiden hands
Do we take up shield or bow.

We wage this war in words and actions,
With our every deed.

We follow Christ our captain,
Thro' Him we will succeed.

Tell me now have we forgot
The charge from God above

To keep our hearts in purity, grace
Modesty, truth and love.

These are our weapons, our shields, our swords;
In this battle we now fight.

We strive not for an earthly king,
But for our God of truth and might!

I hope everyone is having a wonderful and blessed weekend!

Psalm 37:5-9

Commit your way to the LORD;
trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn,
the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.

Grace and peace,
Marissa

Giveaway at Content in Christ!

2010-02-17T14:22:00.001-08:00

Hey everyone! Just wanted to let you know that Lindsay at Content in Christ is having a giveaway! Go check it out! :)

Edit: Sorry! I forgot to put the link the first time! There you go... enjoy! :)

Yours

2010-02-14T10:02:00.000-08:00

"...I have learned the secret of being content..."

2010-02-09T18:08:00.000-08:00

Philippians 4:12
"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.
I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation,
whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."

Today as I was looking out the window watching the snow fall softly against the ground, I became angry and started thinking of how the snow was "ruining everything" and though people kept saying how beautiful it was, I could not bring myself to admit it and starting fooling myself into how ugly it was. Though it was true that I didn't like snow very much before today, I have to say, it was even worse this day. Everything was canceled and today was particularly a day I was looking forward to. It truly did ruin everything planned for today. But it did not ruin the day.
I had to catch myself each time I wanted to say how nasty the snow was. The truth was, however, I believed the snow was beautiful. The tiny flakes that fell to the ground - not one of them the same - were captivating. Honestly, one could look at them all day. After a while of not 'catching' myself, I fell into the trap of believing the lies that sprouted in my head from the silly stories I kept saying over and over. "Why do people love snow so much!? I can't see why they think it so beautiful...I daresay it might even be ugly! Who would want to look at tiny drops of water? nothing special." that was the kind of talk that rolled through my head, and I started believing it. However, as the day rolled on, I busied myself with practicing my cello, reading, doing school with my siblings, and tasting some of the delicious muffins my mother threw together, thinking it would be fun on a cold winter day. I decided that if I could not do the things planned then I would not lose the day to sulking. It was the right idea, but the wrong motives. I took on a headstrong, "I'll show it!" (meaning the snow) sort of attitude.
As I looked out the window and saw the snow drifting to the ground, the now white trees that looked simply elegant dressed in the white of snow, and then looking up now at the sky, it seemed actually beautiful. I tried to shake myself out of the idea of thinking snow could be beautiful, it ruined my day, don't forget!
Then suddenly I remembered the people of Haiti, the people on the street who were enduring this blizzard head on while I sat in my room sulking. Then taking the time machine backwards to the times of Caesar, Hitler, Nero, Nebuchadnezzar...these men who attempted power and afflicted pain on all those in their way, and even those who weren't! I became embarrassed. What was I complaining about? My life was a perfect fairytale that showered me with gifts and easy living. I felt no pain. It was true I may have stayed home from an event or two, missed a lesson, didn't get to see a family of friends, and I surely had some right to be dissapointed, but I had felt no pain, hardship, I was not standing in the cold freezing and I was not in the hospital dying. Why was I so upset? The truth of the senseless matter was that- I wasn't upset. I was just feeling sorry for myself. I made a big deal of nothing, fell into the sin of hating one of God's precious creations and spoiling the afternoon. The pain of realizing how foolish I had been was ten times the pain of the plans I had being shattered. My dream day- thats what I had labeled it- and once it was ruined I fell into despair and anger at something that was not to be hated but to be looked upon as the magnificence of God; for His creation is truly wonderful and a beauty. What can compare to the glory of God's creation? How silly we can become when we get trapped in emotions that tear us from reality. Now I look upon my day and think of how I could have done the things in it. Maybe with more joy?

I know this post has been long and I hope I didn't bore you....I think I may have written too many medieval books....

In Christ,
Andrea

Happy Birthday, Seth!

2010-02-07T13:39:00.000-08:00

Today is Seth's 4th birthday!

This little boy has been such a tremendous blessing to our family the past 4 years. One of his greatest characteristics is his almost constant smile. He is such a joy to have in our family.

Seth also has an incredible amount of energy! He loves to wrestle with his brother and RUN! He can also spend hours doing legos, playmobil, and drawing. He can make almost anything out of... almost anything!

Other things he likes to do are sing, read, say the alphabet, and cook (he calls himself our "cooker boy").

We love you, Seth!

Raising Maidens of Virtue

2010-02-06T13:37:00.000-08:00

Dear Lord,
let my life be a reflection of Your mercy and goodness. Allow a lovely and gentle spirit to shine forth from me. Make my countenance properly express your holiness. Keep me from attempting to glorify myself and help me to instead glorify You in all that I do, wear, and proclaim. Take my life, Lord--do with it what You will, and make me content and joyful always and in everything. Amen.

~Stacy McDonald, Raising Maidens of Virtue

My sisters, mom and I started reading this book a few days ago for morning devotions. It's really good! We're not even halfway through it, but I would really recommend it for any of you who haven't read it yet! :)

Blessings,
Marissa

Peach Smoothie....

2010-02-05T05:56:00.000-08:00

...a delicious and healthy way to start the day! :)

It's so easy, too! :) We've been making these a lot the past week and I thought I would share the recipe with you.

2 C yogurt (I found this recipe from the Wissman's blog a couple of weeks ago. Give it a try!)
1 1/4 C milk
2 C frozen peaches
1 1/2 Tbs honey

Throw everything in a blender and enjoy!
~Makes about 5 servings~

You can add more or less of anything depending on how thick, thin, or sweet you like it. I think we change it a little bit every day. :)

Giveaway at Feminine Farmgirl!

2010-02-04T12:17:00.001-08:00

Jenna at Feminine Farmgirl is having a giveaway for a Marie Madeline Studio skirt pattern! Head on over and check it out!!! :)

2010-02-03T12:38:00.000-08:00

"Jesus came on a rescue mission for creation. He had to pay for our sins so that some day He can end evil and suffering without ending us."
-Answers magazine

Thought for a new week

2010-01-31T17:41:00.000-08:00

1 Timothy 6:11
But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness,
godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.

God's list-not mine

2010-01-25T10:17:00.000-08:00

Right now I am reading Elisabeth Elliot's book, Discipline: The Glad Surrender. Today I read a chapter about the discipline of time.

I am a list maker... I need to have goals to accomplish and love checking things off when they're completed! :) haha Often I don't get everything done and that tends to frustrate me sometimes. In fact, one of my new year's resolutions was to give time to people when they asked of me (especially family members). When people ask me to do things while I know I have a whole list of other things that need to be done, I can be annoyed.

This sentence really stood out to me:
"There will be time, depend on it, for everything God wants us to do."

This chapter also talks about God's list for our day. Instead of going to bed and thinking, "Did I get everything on my list accomplished?" I should think, "Did I get everything on God's list for me accomplished today?"

Just a thought.

Have a wonderful day everyone! :)
~Marissa

Verse of the Year

2010-01-23T11:54:00.000-08:00

The last few weeks I've been trying to pick a verse to think about and meditate on for the rest of this year. Of course I am hoping and planning by God's grace to hide lots more verses in my heart in the next 12 months, but I tried to narrow it down to one that could be my main verse for 2010.

I read this in December and had to stop and read it over. After a writing down quite a few wonderful verses and trying to narrow it down to the one the Lord really wanted me to think about, I decided this was it.

Psalm 105:4
Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always.

Short, yes, but very challenging.

These last few days I have had a wonderful opportunity to obey this command. (Instead of me explaining it, you can just read the last post.) Yesterday morning I woke up and thought "This is a wonderful opportunity and I'm glad I get to do it, but this is going to be a long day... how am I going to get through 'till tonight?" Then I remembered this verse..... Look to His strength.... I realized that it didn't matter if I was tired, or didn't exactly want to play violin all day, or didn't feel like any more sitting! :) God's strength would be more than enough for me. Sure enough, it was. :) I ended up having a lot of fun yesterday, not being tired, and it seemed a lot shorter than I thought it would be.

God is able to make us strong because of His love and His amazing grace!

Blessings,
Marissa

Marissa is in Grand Rapids!

2010-01-21T13:26:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!
I know how much Marissa LOVES for me to do posts about her.....
haha but I just wanted to say that she got into the All State Honors Orchestra so right now she's down in Grand Rapids and will be coming back and forth at night for three days. :)

Please pray for her safety, that the roads will be good, and that she has a great time!

In Christ,

Andrea

Black and White [:

2010-01-08T16:28:00.001-08:00

My beautiful sister :)

Sing to the LORD, you saints of His; Praise His holy name. -Psalm 30:4

Sethy! :)

He is cute :)

In Christ,
Andrea

Trying something new.... noodle making!

2010-01-04T11:26:00.001-08:00

This was our first try at making noodles, and I have to admit I was pretty surprised that
they actually turned out... and tasted really good!

Elaina is such a good helper. :)

Mom making the dough

Seth! :)

Yummy :)

This is Our God

2010-01-03T11:47:00.000-08:00

Here is the lyrics of the first verse of the song This is Our God.
Hope you enjoy it!

Your grace is enough
More than I need

At your word I will believe
I wait for you
Draw near again
Let your spirit make me new

And I will fall at your feet
I will fall at your feet
And I will worship you here

Freely you gave it all for us
Surrendered your life upon that cross
Great is your love
Poured out for all
This is our God

I just love that song so I thought I'd post it for all of you!

In Christ,
~Andrea

Just think..... and Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T12:20:00.000-08:00

Just think,
you're here not by chance,
but by God's choosing.
His hand formed you and made you
the person you are.
He compares you to no one else--
you are one of a kind.
You lack nothing
that His grace can't give you.
He has allowed you to be here
at this time in history
to fulfill His special purpose
for this generation.
--Roy Lessin

What a blessing to be able to look back on this year and see God's hand of faithfulness and blessing in our lives. He has been so good to us this year (and every year!) and I am excited to see His plans for my family in 2010.

One of the blessings God gave me in 2009 was getting know and read about all of you through blogger. You have each been such a blessing in my life! Thank you for your wonderful, encouraging posts, comments, etc. I am so thankful for you all! :)

Blessings to you in 2010!
~Marissa

Hiding God's Word in Our Hearts

2009-12-30T15:20:00.000-08:00

One of the things I have learned this past year is how necessary it is for Christ followers to memorize the Word of God. I am definitely still working on diligence in this area, but I have discovered that it is quite a rewarding and fun thing to do, actually!

When I first got serious about memorizing and meditating on God's Word, I started by making a list of verses that were especially liked or were helpful to me as I came upon them. Then, one at a time, I would memorize them (as I kept adding to the list).

This month I have tried a couple new things. One was memorizing 10 or so verses on a certain topic. I used a book called Light for My Path (which has verses organized by subject), and this month I memorized verses on brotherly love.

Another thing I started which I have really enjoyed is doing one chapter per month. For December I did (or am almost done with) Psalm 18. I must admit, lots of days it has been a real challenge to commit time to memorizing when I don't feel like it. God has really helped me though and over the past many months has been strengthening my memory (it really is a muscle!). I have tried to devote about 10-15 minutes from my quiet time in the morning plus about 10 minutes before going to sleep to memorizing... longer than I had originally expected, but it's worth it. :)

I think I'm going to do Psalm 103 for January. It is such a wonderful reminder of the great things God has done.

Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits--
who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Psalm 103:2-5

Would you like to share any memorizing techniques? :)

In Christ,
Marissa

It's Christmastime!

2009-12-29T14:42:00.000-08:00

This week and last week we have had off of school to enjoy Christmas, spend time with family, and just relax and slow down a bit. I have a few pictures of things that we've been doing these last few days...

The kids got to sing in church a couple of weeks ago. They were so much fun to watch! :)

Of course, we have been playing in the snow! We went sledding at our neighbor's house yesterday.... that was a lot of fun!

Our friends new baby just arrived a few weeks ago and all of us have had lots of fun getting to see her!

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Christmas season celebrating the Savior!

Blessings,
Marissa

Questions..... and random facts :)

2009-12-23T13:25:00.000-08:00

1. How do you spend your day?
Marissa:
Being home schooled, we are often flexible with our schedule, so of course every day is different (that's what makes life so interesting!)! At 8:30 we do Bible study as a family. After that, we do our "academic" schoolwork until around lunch time. Then after lunch we often something going on involving music (lessons, practices... etc.... although sometimes they're before lunch or later in the evening... it depends on the day.) :)
When we have extra time at home and everything that needs to be done is done... we like to work on projects (sewing, crocheting, knitting....), cook/bake, read, sing..... we love being home and doing things as a family.

2. Which missionary "hero" encourages you most in your faith and why?
Andrea:
Well...there are lots of extraordinary missionaries but I would have to say Brother Andrew is one of my favorites, because he had such faith in God as he smuggled Bibles .
Having complete faith and trust in God is something I often have trouble with, and Brother Andrew has encouraged me in this... so that's why he is one of my missionary hero's. :)

Hannah, we did not go to your friends' shop when we were in Sitka, but I'm pretty sure that our cousins did. We were in a different part of the city at the time.

Erin.... hopefully!!! We're definitely looking out that way! It would be VERY awesome if we lived closer!!!!!

We're going to try to think of three random Christmas facts about our family....

1. Our Christmas Eve tradition is to go to the Christmas Eve service at our church, come home and have a yummy Christmas Eve dinner, then the kids exchange gifts.
2. Our Christmas Eve tradition is going to be different this year! We're going to eat earlier, then the two of us will be at church from 4:30-8:00 to play in the services. We'll definitely still have a great Christmas Eve, though!
3. We have lots of fun each year going to a Christmas tree farm and cutting down our tree! Elaina is the official Christmas tree cutter of the family. haha :) She loves doing it!

We probably won't be back until after Friday... so HAVE A GREAT CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!!!!!

Luke 2:11-12
Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
"Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

In Christ,
Marissa and Andrea

Tags and Awards

2009-12-18T15:03:00.000-08:00

This took us so long to get around to! Sorry! Recently we were awarded/tagged by Hannah, Kelsey, and The Cowgirls (thanks, girls!), and we are just getting around to doing them. Instead of doing each one, we're going to use Jenna's idea (☺) and answer 7 questions that anyone has. So let us know if there's anything you would like to know about us and we'll do out best!

In Christ,
~Marissa and Andrea~

What's been going on around here...

2009-12-16T13:34:00.000-08:00

Lots! Today is the first day in a while that I have actually wondered, "What should I do now?". I have to laugh at myself because normally we are so busy with school, practicing instruments, lessons, everyday life..... and I so often wish I had more time to read, sew, cook.... etc. Now when I don't have anything that needs doing, I have to think about what I should do.....

Last Monday we had our winter orchestra concert.... I can't believe half the year is over already! The concert went pretty well though and was a lot of fun. :)

Yesterday Danielle, Mary and I did a Christmas harp trio at a nursing home. I hope the residents enjoyed it.... haha I think they did. :)

Right now I'm listening to Andrea play one of my favorite hymns on the piano. :)

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise the Thee.
Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!
God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!

Alright, I think I've rambled enough for now.

Blessings!
Marissa

Happy Birthday, Marissa!!

2009-12-13T14:05:00.000-08:00

Today is Marissa's 16th Birthday and I just wanted to say how much I love her and how proud I am of her. She has been such a wonderful daughter, sister, friend and mentor. She has blessed my life in so many ways by being my best friend, my amazing sister, and my favorite person to laugh with, to sing with, to talk with, and to just be with. (: I love her very dearly and I am so glad she is my big sister!!

I love you, Marissa!!

In Christ,
~Andrea

Giveaway at God's Daughter

2009-12-10T09:45:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! I just wanted to let you all know that Miss Raquel over at God's Daughter is having a giveaway for this book! So go check it out! :)
http://god-sdaughter.blogspot.com/

December ALREADY?

2009-12-09T18:27:00.001-08:00

Wow, this year has really flown by for me! It has been such a fun year and although it has gone by really fast, a lot of great things have happened this year. :)

At the beginning of the year I made a list of 10 things (character qualities... etc.) I was going to work on for the next 12 months. It was looking at the list again this morning and it was very encouraging to realize that I actually have gotten better at many of them this year! :) Of course I still have lots to work on in probably all of those areas, but as I have seen, God is faithful to help me with each and every one!

Christmas is quickly approaching and before we know it 2009 will be over.... wow. Let's not lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas as we celebrate the Savior's birth this month!

Have fun shining the light of Christ!

~M~

2009-12-09T13:53:00.001-08:00

"When you do the common things in life in an uncommon way,

you will command the attention of the world."

-George Washington Carver

First snow!

2009-12-05T11:49:00.000-08:00

My crazy but awesome brother wearing shorts. :)

Oh dear, Seth. I think he had snow in his mouth or... something.

Sorry about the bad quality!

Anyway... the first snow is always very exciting!
~M~