Wow.
It seriously blows my mind to see how God uses situations in our life for greater glory.
There are some things I have been through that have freaking SUCKED, yet God always seems to place people in my life who are currently going through those things. In times like these, He provides opportunities for me to have compassion and be more understanding than someone else who can't speak from experience in this.
It is not a matter of,
"Oh, well I'm just such a smart person that I figured this out on my own",
but a matter of:
"Well, what I thought would destroy me, God showed me He is bigger than. What I thought I couldn't handle, He showed me He could and He can. In times that I thought God had dropped the ball and forgotten about me, He showed me that His eye and His hand were on me the entire time... and He did those things with a very specific purpose [some of which I now know, some which I never will], and I can honestly say that He did what was best and is unfathomably trustworthy."
And now that allows me to tell people, "Ohhhhh man... I know what you mean/I know how you feel/ I can imagine what must be going through your mind." and I can promise with all confidence that God IS bigger and He is BETTER. I never thought I'd be able to say this with sincerity, but:
Everything I've been through...
It has all been worth it.
I can see that now... and I believe that in the ways I still haven't seen the "worth it" factor demonstrated, I have hope that I will one day see that, too.
There are a few people in my life who have been unbelievable supports, sources of encouragement, voices of reason, or just great listeners, & I am now able to mirror that example toward others.
"Let each one of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others." -Phil. 2:4
Thank Jesus for His character in people. People have lived out this verse toward me.
Now its my turn. Pay it forward.
"I hope we wake up one day, and tear the veils from our faces& see how beautiful the world can be.
We'll open our mouths& reach our hands toward the sky... The sun has come for us again!"
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Bits& Pieces.
The less I talk& the more introspective I am, the more I learn about myself.
Some things are important and incredibly significant to my life& how I live& react, but others are just plain true, no matter how silly or unimportant they may seem.
1) I am stubborn. Once I get an idea in my mind, it is hard to shake me from it.
2) I am easy going. It takes a lot to get me going. I’m not often mad or offended.
3) I love changing my plans spontaneously to do something better/more fun/more productive/more crazy/ more interesting.
4) It frustrates me when people change plans on me last-minute, unless the plan is a fun one.
For instance, if I had plans to clean my house [which I actually enjoy] but someone said, “Hey! Let’s go to a museum!” I’d say, “Sure!”
But if I have plans to go hiking or biking or on a trip with a friend and they called last minute and said, “Hey… I need to clean my house/go to the bank/get my hair done.” I’d be really darn bummed out. And frustrated.
5) I can’t stand country music, and people know to not even talk to me about it, because I know I don’t like it [granted, I haven’t heard ALL country… but I know I’ve never liked any I’ve ever heard], but I lovelovelove Mumford& Sons and Edward Sharpe& the Magnetic Zeros, and other bands that have a banjo or harmonica.
6) I am loud when I laugh, but not so much when I speak.
7) I LOVE to laugh. Loudly. Often. I don’t “laugh at everything” but I AM easily amused, because I find underlying humor in most situations. Only people who REALLY know me or who have a very similar sense of humor pick up on those things. Everyone else thinks I’m crazy or just giggly by nature. Not so.
8) I love reading more than any other passive hobby, but I have the hardest time finishing a book, because I never want it to be over. Yes, I realize that makes mesound like a nerd.
9) I absolutely cannot sit still through an entire movie if I’m watching it alone. Either I stop it and watch it in 2-3 parts, because I lose all sense of an attention span, OR I fall asleep.
Its ridiculous. And consistent.
10) People tell me I look younger than I really am, and think I’m a teenager because I’m really energetic. However, once people get to know me, they say, “Oh… I thought you were so much older because of the way you carry yourself.” Hmm…. Oxymoron, much? Am I energetic or am I “poised”? Hahaha. Riiiiight.
Luckily, I’ m pretty much used to being an oxymoron, so whatev. [i.e. I love cooking& baking& food in general, but can’t eat a lot of it. Also, I love war/action movies, but can’t stand violence in real life. Well, except for UFC. But that doesn't translate into "real life" for me, so I guess I can handle it better.]
11) Apparently my musical tastes usually fall into “indie” or "indie rock" or "indie alternative", but I’m not a big fan of indie movies. However… they usually have fantastic soundtracks.
12) I don’t think pregnancy is gross like I used to [yes, yes, I realize I was a very immature high schooler], but childbirth still makes me queasy to think about or talk about in detail.
13) I would much rather receive a compliment from an elderly person than someone my age… I guess I value their opinions more?
14) I very much feel that I can’t identify with people who don’t like to travel. I know its pretty trivial, because it isn’t something that is a HUGE deal or that holds any type of eternal value, but I guess travel is SO important to me and such a big part of where I’ve been and what I want in life, that I think people who don’t travel will never really understand who I am. Take it for what its worth, but that’s the idea I’ve noticed I subconsciously maintain.
15) One thing I’ve noticed about myself that I really don’t like and am really attempting to change is this:
In some ways, I care so much about what people think of me, that I forego “natural” Natalie-ways.
UGH. It even looks as stupid in print as it sounds in my head. Dumb, dumb, dumb.
For instance, I like hardcore music [NOT all of it, but some], but when some of my friends talk predominantly about it, I kind of overlook it and don’t say anything about it, because I don’t want to be identified as solely liking that music.
Or, I really-really-really love football and enjoy basketball a lot, too, but when guys are talking sports, I often don’t jump in, because I don’t want to seem like “that” girl who’s trying so hard to be one of the guys.
[I’d rather be a girl, thankyouverymuch!].
Lastly, I really like hiking and camping and kayaking [the grand total of 2 times I’ve gone kayaking, anyway] and fishing, but when surrounded by people who are REALLY into that kind of stuff, I kind of shy away from it, because I’m intimidated that I’m not up to par.
So dumb.
I really am too dang much of a perfectionist. I want to be accepted for who I am, strange interests& mistakes& all, but I get so caught up in trying to be perfect. I never give anyone a chance to accept me for me, because I’m trying too much to not SEEM like I’m trying to hard… thus, trying too hard!
Well, there’s my big confession for tonight. I’m not perfect in the slightest bit, and I want to just be real [notice, not “normal“… not status quo…. But REAL] & myself, but part of me wants to be perfect and above making mistakes.
Truth be told, I’m gonna make mistakes! I don’t believe I’ll EVER be the kind of person who just owns that fact, but I at least want to accept it and live my life fully, adventurously, energetically, joyfully, and as a woman who loves Jesus more than life itself, and who reflects Him in every area… He’s perfect, and if His character is reflected in me, I don’t have to worry about what people think of me.
Yeah. Workin’ on it.
Some things are important and incredibly significant to my life& how I live& react, but others are just plain true, no matter how silly or unimportant they may seem.
1) I am stubborn. Once I get an idea in my mind, it is hard to shake me from it.
2) I am easy going. It takes a lot to get me going. I’m not often mad or offended.
3) I love changing my plans spontaneously to do something better/more fun/more productive/more crazy/ more interesting.
4) It frustrates me when people change plans on me last-minute, unless the plan is a fun one.
For instance, if I had plans to clean my house [which I actually enjoy] but someone said, “Hey! Let’s go to a museum!” I’d say, “Sure!”
But if I have plans to go hiking or biking or on a trip with a friend and they called last minute and said, “Hey… I need to clean my house/go to the bank/get my hair done.” I’d be really darn bummed out. And frustrated.
5) I can’t stand country music, and people know to not even talk to me about it, because I know I don’t like it [granted, I haven’t heard ALL country… but I know I’ve never liked any I’ve ever heard], but I lovelovelove Mumford& Sons and Edward Sharpe& the Magnetic Zeros, and other bands that have a banjo or harmonica.
6) I am loud when I laugh, but not so much when I speak.
7) I LOVE to laugh. Loudly. Often. I don’t “laugh at everything” but I AM easily amused, because I find underlying humor in most situations. Only people who REALLY know me or who have a very similar sense of humor pick up on those things. Everyone else thinks I’m crazy or just giggly by nature. Not so.
8) I love reading more than any other passive hobby, but I have the hardest time finishing a book, because I never want it to be over. Yes, I realize that makes me
9) I absolutely cannot sit still through an entire movie if I’m watching it alone. Either I stop it and watch it in 2-3 parts, because I lose all sense of an attention span, OR I fall asleep.
Its ridiculous. And consistent.
10) People tell me I look younger than I really am, and think I’m a teenager because I’m really energetic. However, once people get to know me, they say, “Oh… I thought you were so much older because of the way you carry yourself.” Hmm…. Oxymoron, much? Am I energetic or am I “poised”? Hahaha. Riiiiight.
Luckily, I’ m pretty much used to being an oxymoron, so whatev. [i.e. I love cooking& baking& food in general, but can’t eat a lot of it. Also, I love war/action movies, but can’t stand violence in real life. Well, except for UFC. But that doesn't translate into "real life" for me, so I guess I can handle it better.]
11) Apparently my musical tastes usually fall into “indie” or "indie rock" or "indie alternative", but I’m not a big fan of indie movies. However… they usually have fantastic soundtracks.
12) I don’t think pregnancy is gross like I used to [yes, yes, I realize I was a very immature high schooler], but childbirth still makes me queasy to think about or talk about in detail.
13) I would much rather receive a compliment from an elderly person than someone my age… I guess I value their opinions more?
14) I very much feel that I can’t identify with people who don’t like to travel. I know its pretty trivial, because it isn’t something that is a HUGE deal or that holds any type of eternal value, but I guess travel is SO important to me and such a big part of where I’ve been and what I want in life, that I think people who don’t travel will never really understand who I am. Take it for what its worth, but that’s the idea I’ve noticed I subconsciously maintain.
15) One thing I’ve noticed about myself that I really don’t like and am really attempting to change is this:
In some ways, I care so much about what people think of me, that I forego “natural” Natalie-ways.
UGH. It even looks as stupid in print as it sounds in my head. Dumb, dumb, dumb.
For instance, I like hardcore music [NOT all of it, but some], but when some of my friends talk predominantly about it, I kind of overlook it and don’t say anything about it, because I don’t want to be identified as solely liking that music.
Or, I really-really-really love football and enjoy basketball a lot, too, but when guys are talking sports, I often don’t jump in, because I don’t want to seem like “that” girl who’s trying so hard to be one of the guys.
[I’d rather be a girl, thankyouverymuch!].
Lastly, I really like hiking and camping and kayaking [the grand total of 2 times I’ve gone kayaking, anyway] and fishing, but when surrounded by people who are REALLY into that kind of stuff, I kind of shy away from it, because I’m intimidated that I’m not up to par.
So dumb.
I really am too dang much of a perfectionist. I want to be accepted for who I am, strange interests& mistakes& all, but I get so caught up in trying to be perfect. I never give anyone a chance to accept me for me, because I’m trying too much to not SEEM like I’m trying to hard… thus, trying too hard!
Well, there’s my big confession for tonight. I’m not perfect in the slightest bit, and I want to just be real [notice, not “normal“… not status quo…. But REAL] & myself, but part of me wants to be perfect and above making mistakes.
Truth be told, I’m gonna make mistakes! I don’t believe I’ll EVER be the kind of person who just owns that fact, but I at least want to accept it and live my life fully, adventurously, energetically, joyfully, and as a woman who loves Jesus more than life itself, and who reflects Him in every area… He’s perfect, and if His character is reflected in me, I don’t have to worry about what people think of me.
Yeah. Workin’ on it.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
The Sun Has Come for Us Again.
What a gorgeous day.
What a fantastic weekend.
I LOVE:
Jesus Christ. He is the image of the invisible God, and the firstborn over all creation. By Him all things were created, all things were created through Him and for Him, and in Him all things consist.
My little "niece" Lora and getting to see her baby dedication this morning.
Relay for Life& being involved in something so much bigger than myself. Walked for 2.5 hours for our team with Bekka, Jolene, and Lindsey. Such great friends, and such wonderful conversations... I had so much fun with them. Honestly, the highlight of my ENTIRE night was getting to walk with my friend's mom, Chris, who is a cancer survivor and has been symptom-free for 10 years. I remember her battle with cancer, seeing her go through radiation& chemo, and seeing her become creative with cute hats & scarves when all her hair fell out. Walking with her made it SO much more real to me, and reminded me of how powerful it is to pray for others& give where you can [be it time or money or resources or efforts] to support others.
Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred.
New hiking shoes & getting to break them in on hikes with good friends.
Thrice, Mumford& Sons, Paolo Nutini, Phoenix, Jon Foreman, MGMT, Brooke Fraser, MuteMath, My Epic, and all the great music that has been playing on my iPod lately.
Mumford& Sons in FIVE days!!! And being able to go to the show with a couple friends I haven't seen in WAY too long!
Steven Furtick. Listened to his podcasts "Sun Stand Still" and ordered his book. I am so, so excited to read it. God has been using so many different avenues to speak so clearly to me lately. First of all, His word& simply His voice, and also various pastors and podcasts, books and blogs, family and friends.
I AM BLESSED. Truly blessed, in the true definition of the word.
Dresses. I hate that its only April & already 100 degrees in Palm Desert, but at least dresses make that sweltering heat more bearable.
My family, and how easily we can talk about just about anything.
Learning some things about myself, and realizing why certain things have happened in my life, and what they have taught me. I absolutely love looking back on the last year or two of my life, seeing how much has changed, how much I have been through in various ways, and understanding some of that [although not all of it!] as well as seeing the growth& depth it's produced in my life. I know myself better: who I am, my heart, my strengths, my weaknesses, my interests, what I need, how I respond, and how I communicate.
In turn, knowing those things about myself help me to better know who Jesus is& who He is in my life [as He shows me more specifically who He is in me, and how He wants to work in my life and through me], as well as what gifts He's given me in order to share that truth& love with others, according to their needs.
BJ, Audrey, & Lora. I love that they call me "Aunt Natalie" and that we can just sit and hang out and have awesome conversations about serious [aaaand not-so-serious] matters, or how BJ watches Lora so Audrey& I can go out, or how we can sit and enjoy each other's company while watching the Lakers game.
Speaking of great friends: I have GREAT friends. Jason& Bekka are two other friends who are such legitimately good friends, and who can make absolutely anyone feel welcome around them.
Ezekiel brand sprouted corn tortillas. Seriously delicious. I'm baking tortilla chips as I type this.
Talking to strangers like I know them. Case in point: Last night I was walking at the Relay for Life with 3 friends, when I just struck up a conversation with a girl, and about 10 minutes into it, Lindsay said, "Oh... By the way, this is Natalie..." Hahaha. She thought we knew each other, but apparently the other girl and I are just the type who like talking to complete strangers like its no big deal.
Knowing that Water Canyon is open again. Went today with Audrey& am super pleased with the way it turned out! The new owner, Diana, is really friendly, too! Can't wait to go there tomorrow.
Sorry, Starbucks... You've been replaced.
The Chronicles of Narnia. The movies aren't nearly as good as the books, but I love them regardless. C.S. Lewis was a phenomenal author.
Getting a new comforter and pillows. Unfortunately, I write in bed a lot, and sometimes I lose track of my overly-inky pens until I realize they've stained my sheets. Looks like I'm going to have to buy some new sheet sets to replace the ink-steeped ones. And those things aren't cheap. Well... that'll teach me.
Waking up with a start, 30 minutes before my alarm is set to go off. I seriously enjoy mornings.
Cleaning& organizing my room, and rearranging my furniture. I can't wait until I have a place of my own.
Colorado. I'm still bent on moving there. Plans are just on hold for a bit. Hopefully by next year I'll be a happy new resident of Denver or Colorado Springs. Time will tell. I'm waiting on Jesus for the next step. At the moment, it is an unexplained "Wait." No idea why. No idea for how long. But I trust Him. :)
I can literally say that. And its a beautiful feeling.
Tulips. They are just the most beautiful flowers ever. I was so happy to see tables full of fresh tulips today at Water Canyon. They're just so springy& colorful... They make me enjoy the spring that much more.
Overhearing my mom tell my dad all about the features on her new iPhone. They are SO darn cute. I can also almost guarantee that my dad will want an iPhone, too.
Looking up& trying new recipes, and then sharing them with friends only to find out they loved them, too!
Secretly making the world healthier, one friend at a time...
Lastly, I love this quote:
"If you only stand beside your friends when they're winning, you're a loser."
-Steven Furtick
I have some rather fantastic friends and make it my aim to be a good friend to them. And I am so positively glad to realize that I have several more real, authentic, valuable friendships than I even realized. Jesus is the example... and its obvious.
I am so appreciative to have friends who give and not only take.
Talk about a support system.
What a fantastic weekend.
I LOVE:
Jesus Christ. He is the image of the invisible God, and the firstborn over all creation. By Him all things were created, all things were created through Him and for Him, and in Him all things consist.
My little "niece" Lora and getting to see her baby dedication this morning.
Relay for Life& being involved in something so much bigger than myself. Walked for 2.5 hours for our team with Bekka, Jolene, and Lindsey. Such great friends, and such wonderful conversations... I had so much fun with them. Honestly, the highlight of my ENTIRE night was getting to walk with my friend's mom, Chris, who is a cancer survivor and has been symptom-free for 10 years. I remember her battle with cancer, seeing her go through radiation& chemo, and seeing her become creative with cute hats & scarves when all her hair fell out. Walking with her made it SO much more real to me, and reminded me of how powerful it is to pray for others& give where you can [be it time or money or resources or efforts] to support others.
Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred.
New hiking shoes & getting to break them in on hikes with good friends.
Thrice, Mumford& Sons, Paolo Nutini, Phoenix, Jon Foreman, MGMT, Brooke Fraser, MuteMath, My Epic, and all the great music that has been playing on my iPod lately.
Mumford& Sons in FIVE days!!! And being able to go to the show with a couple friends I haven't seen in WAY too long!
Steven Furtick. Listened to his podcasts "Sun Stand Still" and ordered his book. I am so, so excited to read it. God has been using so many different avenues to speak so clearly to me lately. First of all, His word& simply His voice, and also various pastors and podcasts, books and blogs, family and friends.
I AM BLESSED. Truly blessed, in the true definition of the word.
Dresses. I hate that its only April & already 100 degrees in Palm Desert, but at least dresses make that sweltering heat more bearable.
My family, and how easily we can talk about just about anything.
Learning some things about myself, and realizing why certain things have happened in my life, and what they have taught me. I absolutely love looking back on the last year or two of my life, seeing how much has changed, how much I have been through in various ways, and understanding some of that [although not all of it!] as well as seeing the growth& depth it's produced in my life. I know myself better: who I am, my heart, my strengths, my weaknesses, my interests, what I need, how I respond, and how I communicate.
In turn, knowing those things about myself help me to better know who Jesus is& who He is in my life [as He shows me more specifically who He is in me, and how He wants to work in my life and through me], as well as what gifts He's given me in order to share that truth& love with others, according to their needs.
BJ, Audrey, & Lora. I love that they call me "Aunt Natalie" and that we can just sit and hang out and have awesome conversations about serious [aaaand not-so-serious] matters, or how BJ watches Lora so Audrey& I can go out, or how we can sit and enjoy each other's company while watching the Lakers game.
Speaking of great friends: I have GREAT friends. Jason& Bekka are two other friends who are such legitimately good friends, and who can make absolutely anyone feel welcome around them.
Ezekiel brand sprouted corn tortillas. Seriously delicious. I'm baking tortilla chips as I type this.
Talking to strangers like I know them. Case in point: Last night I was walking at the Relay for Life with 3 friends, when I just struck up a conversation with a girl, and about 10 minutes into it, Lindsay said, "Oh... By the way, this is Natalie..." Hahaha. She thought we knew each other, but apparently the other girl and I are just the type who like talking to complete strangers like its no big deal.
Knowing that Water Canyon is open again. Went today with Audrey& am super pleased with the way it turned out! The new owner, Diana, is really friendly, too! Can't wait to go there tomorrow.
Sorry, Starbucks... You've been replaced.
The Chronicles of Narnia. The movies aren't nearly as good as the books, but I love them regardless. C.S. Lewis was a phenomenal author.
Getting a new comforter and pillows. Unfortunately, I write in bed a lot, and sometimes I lose track of my overly-inky pens until I realize they've stained my sheets. Looks like I'm going to have to buy some new sheet sets to replace the ink-steeped ones. And those things aren't cheap. Well... that'll teach me.
Waking up with a start, 30 minutes before my alarm is set to go off. I seriously enjoy mornings.
Cleaning& organizing my room, and rearranging my furniture. I can't wait until I have a place of my own.
Colorado. I'm still bent on moving there. Plans are just on hold for a bit. Hopefully by next year I'll be a happy new resident of Denver or Colorado Springs. Time will tell. I'm waiting on Jesus for the next step. At the moment, it is an unexplained "Wait." No idea why. No idea for how long. But I trust Him. :)
I can literally say that. And its a beautiful feeling.
Tulips. They are just the most beautiful flowers ever. I was so happy to see tables full of fresh tulips today at Water Canyon. They're just so springy& colorful... They make me enjoy the spring that much more.
Overhearing my mom tell my dad all about the features on her new iPhone. They are SO darn cute. I can also almost guarantee that my dad will want an iPhone, too.
Looking up& trying new recipes, and then sharing them with friends only to find out they loved them, too!
Secretly making the world healthier, one friend at a time...
Lastly, I love this quote:
"If you only stand beside your friends when they're winning, you're a loser."
-Steven Furtick
I have some rather fantastic friends and make it my aim to be a good friend to them. And I am so positively glad to realize that I have several more real, authentic, valuable friendships than I even realized. Jesus is the example... and its obvious.
I am so appreciative to have friends who give and not only take.
Talk about a support system.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
PRAY. Join. Support. Prevent. Donate.
If you're interested in donating, please visit RelayforLife.org and type in "Natalie Aceves". It will direct you to a page to donate to the American Cancer Society.
Or click this link:
http://main.acsevents.org/goto/natalieaceves
Also, to ALL whom I've been texting, emailing, and Facebooking about Brent Yim, my old Bible college instructor-- you can donate in honor& support of him. His tumor was malignant and the neurosurgeon was able to remove it. He will now be undergoing chemotherapy and radiation. If you can't afford to donate, seriously, don't even worry about it!
Just please please please pray for Brent, Andrea, their two boys, their family, and their church family.
They are seriously some of the most Jesus-reflecting, love-driven, awesome people, and some of the most incredible examples I've ever known.
"[Jesus] is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities-- all things have been created through Him and for Him.
He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. He is also Head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything."
[Colossians 1:15-18]
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Hell Hath No Fury Like A Woman Starved.
Oh no. Oh no, oh no, oh no.
I think I've turned over a new leaf that I wish I hadn't!
I have become a cranky hungry person. I hope this isn't a new phase. And I think I may have caused it.
Last Saturday, my mom& I went shopping for a verrrry long time. I had a great time with her. Although I do not like shopping for more than 2 hours, she's great company.
However, that day I didn't eat breakfast, because I wasn't hungry. I wasn't all that hungry for lunch, nor did I bring snacks. I didn't eat until 5pm, and when I finally ate, I was staaaarving& feeling cranky.
As if that wasn't bad enough, today I apparently [although accidentally] decided to go for Round 2.
I think that may have triggered a case of hunger-induced Crankypants Aceves. CRAP.
I didn't eat breakfast today, because I wasn't hungry. I didn't go home directly after work, because I had to get bloodwork done& run some errands. If you know me, you know I rarely ever eat out, because its hard to find somewhere that's safe enough for all my food allergies, and I'd rather just save my money& eat when I get home. Hmm.
Big mistake. Especially seeing as I got home at 4:45.
I turned into such a grump! I was driving and yelling at other drivers [or, rather, talking condescendingly to them which, sadly, is my form of road rage. "Seriously? You thought that was a good idea? Really? Brilliant, thanks."], and getting frustrated [in my mind, not outwardly] with the Costco employee, and annoyed at the elderly lady who was completely oblivious that her car was made with a turn signal [two, even!] for a reason.
Suddenly I stopped and thought, "Natalie... WHAT is your problem????"
Honestly, I usually have quite a long fuse. It takes a lot to frustrate me, and even more to make me mad.
[That is a total testimony to the power of Jesus Christ& His ability to change lives, because when I was a kid, I was so tempermental.]
Still... today I saw a case of grumpiness that I hope to never see again.
I do not like being in a grumpy mood, or being mad... especially when I know its over something as ridiculous as hunger.
Looks like I need to start carrying snacks everywhere, like I used to when I lived in Spain. Moses was always full of apples, walnuts, water bottles, and pumpkin seeds. Such a healthy little fella.
Or I need to stop waiting until 4 or 5pm to have my first meal. Or stop drinking coffee or chai during the day, because it curbs my appetite so that I'm not hungry for real food. Or all of the above.
This is ridiculous.
And right now I'm giving myself a time out. What I mean by that is, my parents just got home, and I can hear them in the kitchen, but the food I ate hasn't kicked in just yet [its only been about 10 minutes], and I still feel grumpy... So, since I don't want them to experience my grumpiness, I'm hiding out in my room until I'm feeling normal, patient& even-keeled.
Hahahaha. Wow. I'm like my own 5 year old. Snacks& time out.
Well... people do always tell me I look younger...
I think I've turned over a new leaf that I wish I hadn't!
I have become a cranky hungry person. I hope this isn't a new phase. And I think I may have caused it.
Last Saturday, my mom& I went shopping for a verrrry long time. I had a great time with her. Although I do not like shopping for more than 2 hours, she's great company.
However, that day I didn't eat breakfast, because I wasn't hungry. I wasn't all that hungry for lunch, nor did I bring snacks. I didn't eat until 5pm, and when I finally ate, I was staaaarving& feeling cranky.
As if that wasn't bad enough, today I apparently [although accidentally] decided to go for Round 2.
I think that may have triggered a case of hunger-induced Crankypants Aceves. CRAP.
I didn't eat breakfast today, because I wasn't hungry. I didn't go home directly after work, because I had to get bloodwork done& run some errands. If you know me, you know I rarely ever eat out, because its hard to find somewhere that's safe enough for all my food allergies, and I'd rather just save my money& eat when I get home. Hmm.
Big mistake. Especially seeing as I got home at 4:45.
I turned into such a grump! I was driving and yelling at other drivers [or, rather, talking condescendingly to them which, sadly, is my form of road rage. "Seriously? You thought that was a good idea? Really? Brilliant, thanks."], and getting frustrated [in my mind, not outwardly] with the Costco employee, and annoyed at the elderly lady who was completely oblivious that her car was made with a turn signal [two, even!] for a reason.
Suddenly I stopped and thought, "Natalie... WHAT is your problem????"
Honestly, I usually have quite a long fuse. It takes a lot to frustrate me, and even more to make me mad.
[That is a total testimony to the power of Jesus Christ& His ability to change lives, because when I was a kid, I was so tempermental.]
Still... today I saw a case of grumpiness that I hope to never see again.
I do not like being in a grumpy mood, or being mad... especially when I know its over something as ridiculous as hunger.
Looks like I need to start carrying snacks everywhere, like I used to when I lived in Spain. Moses was always full of apples, walnuts, water bottles, and pumpkin seeds. Such a healthy little fella.
Or I need to stop waiting until 4 or 5pm to have my first meal. Or stop drinking coffee or chai during the day, because it curbs my appetite so that I'm not hungry for real food. Or all of the above.
This is ridiculous.
And right now I'm giving myself a time out. What I mean by that is, my parents just got home, and I can hear them in the kitchen, but the food I ate hasn't kicked in just yet [its only been about 10 minutes], and I still feel grumpy... So, since I don't want them to experience my grumpiness, I'm hiding out in my room until I'm feeling normal, patient& even-keeled.
Hahahaha. Wow. I'm like my own 5 year old. Snacks& time out.
Well... people do always tell me I look younger...
Sun Stand Still.
OH. MY. GOODNESS. GRACIOUS.
I just listened to one of the BEST messages I've ever heard.
Literally.
I don't say that casually... I sit under the teaching of Steve Matheson every Sunday night, and listen to anywhere from 2-8 podcasts a week, all taught by incredible pastors with such beautiful hearts for Jesus, and with the ability to effectively communicate that to people, in a way that causes us to want to know& love Jesus more.
And this man is no different.
"Sun Stand Still" is an amazing message that I believe every single person I know needs to hear/know/understand about the heart of God. You had better believe there will be at least 1 or 2 blogs stemming from this series, and I'm sure another might be written after I read Steven's book by the same title, which I'll definitely be buying today.
Please, listen to this. It will be worth your time.www.lifechurch.tv "Sun Stand Still": Steven Furtick
or
search iTunes under Craig Groeschel [or maybe Steven Furtick... haven't checked yet], and go to LifeChurch.tv, and you can download it for free.
As always, any and all feedback is appreciated... Did this hit anyone as strongly as it hit me?
I just listened to one of the BEST messages I've ever heard.
Literally.
I don't say that casually... I sit under the teaching of Steve Matheson every Sunday night, and listen to anywhere from 2-8 podcasts a week, all taught by incredible pastors with such beautiful hearts for Jesus, and with the ability to effectively communicate that to people, in a way that causes us to want to know& love Jesus more.
And this man is no different.
"Sun Stand Still" is an amazing message that I believe every single person I know needs to hear/know/understand about the heart of God. You had better believe there will be at least 1 or 2 blogs stemming from this series, and I'm sure another might be written after I read Steven's book by the same title, which I'll definitely be buying today.
Please, listen to this. It will be worth your time.www.lifechurch.tv "Sun Stand Still": Steven Furtick
or
search iTunes under Craig Groeschel [or maybe Steven Furtick... haven't checked yet], and go to LifeChurch.tv, and you can download it for free.
As always, any and all feedback is appreciated... Did this hit anyone as strongly as it hit me?
EXACTLY.
You might be kinda writing me off because I'm young& you dont think there's any way I could tell you anything about believing God for impossible situations in your life, but that's why I don't come to you on my own authority. I come to you on the authority of the word of God, & the word of God says that God is able to do immeasurably more than you could ever ask or imagine.
-Steven Furtick
-Steven Furtick
Monday, April 4, 2011
Hero.
Men: If you are a husband or a father, or if you ever hope to be, please be a man who is not characterized by complaining or criticizing. If you are a man who works hard for your wife or family, and who can enjoy life & look to Jesus even in the simple parts of life, it will not go unnoticed.
Sometimes we, as people, and maybe more so as women, have a tendency to get so caught up in the busyness of life that we can overlook things, or forget to verbalize our thankfulness.
Still... be that man, and people will come around. Even if you don't receive that recognition and congratulation from people, know that it pleases the heart of God to see men after His heart, who are loving Him so much that you are becoming like Him and reflecting Him. That is your purpose.
This doesn't even go simply for men or marriage or parenthood, but being a good son or daughter, brother or sister, friend, coworker, whatever.
I just know that, by observing the kind of man my dad is, I am inspired to be more like him. To be kind, to be joyful, to be strong, to not complain, to realize the measure with which God has poured out His love on me, and to be so impossible, uncontainably excited about it!
My dad displays the heart of Jesus... and that makes me love him all the more...
And it makes me love my Father in heaven so much more because I remember that, if my dad who is human and who gets frustrated and can [yes, its true] become selfish or impatient, my Heavenly Father loves me perfectly, and He gives the best gifts... even more than my own generous dad does! And THAT boggles my mind.
[And, women, if you're reading this-- because I know some of you will-- how about we start practicing the art of thankfulness? I know I take people in my life for granted WAY too much... my family most of all. Its a shame that those who love me the most, sacrifice the most for me, and who are there for me through it all are the ones I forget to thank sometimes. Let's change the habit.]
Anyway, getting to the point:
My dad is one of the most incredible men I have ever had the privilege of knowing.
He is just such a fantastic leader for our family, a loving husband to my mom, a fun& selfless dad, and just an overall great example.
Yesterday, Jen& I walked into the living room to spy my parents sitting on a bench on the front porch, just laughing& talking& joking around. We didn’t even know they were home, and it made me smile to think that they had gotten home from church [together], and just took a minute to stop & enjoy the day and a few minutes of conversation before they even came inside.
This morning, my dad said, “Ahh… Monday, Monday.” [Yes, he was making a Mamas& the Papas reference. We love them.]
I thought he might follow with something like, “Man, that weekend went too quickly.” or “Well, there’s another long week ahead of us.”
Instead he said, “This is the day that the Lord has made, and we will rejoice& be glad in it!”
Might I just let you in on a little secret? MY DAD DID NOT EVEN GET A WEEKEND.
He worked 40 hours this week at his job doing maintenance in the school district [that alone impresses me, that he does not think he is “above” any type of work, but works fixing toilets& roofs& air conditioning units from Monday- Friday, and gets in the pulpit to teach on Wednesday& Sunday.].
On Saturday, he worked all day painting, fixing, and preparing our old house for the new renters. Sunday was church. Anyone who is a pastor or who knows a pastor well knows that, for pastors, Sundays are work, too.
He had a few hours of free time yesterday afternoon. 3 hours. All week.
Yet, this morning, he didn’t even complain. He praised God for another day.
Come to think of it, I was trying to think of the last time I heard him complain, and I can’t even remember. When I ask him, “Hey Papa, how was work?” he usually says, “It was good!” [Really? Fixing plumbing was “good”? Really?]. The worst I’ve ever heard him say is, “Oh… work was work!”
I LOVE MY DAD.
He is the best example, and a man who truly has the heart of a servant.
I know he will never read this, because he doesn’t even know about this blog, but goodness gracious… If you ever see my dad, please give him a hug or a nice, firm handshake.
He deserves it.
Sometimes we, as people, and maybe more so as women, have a tendency to get so caught up in the busyness of life that we can overlook things, or forget to verbalize our thankfulness.
Still... be that man, and people will come around. Even if you don't receive that recognition and congratulation from people, know that it pleases the heart of God to see men after His heart, who are loving Him so much that you are becoming like Him and reflecting Him. That is your purpose.
This doesn't even go simply for men or marriage or parenthood, but being a good son or daughter, brother or sister, friend, coworker, whatever.
I just know that, by observing the kind of man my dad is, I am inspired to be more like him. To be kind, to be joyful, to be strong, to not complain, to realize the measure with which God has poured out His love on me, and to be so impossible, uncontainably excited about it!
My dad displays the heart of Jesus... and that makes me love him all the more...
And it makes me love my Father in heaven so much more because I remember that, if my dad who is human and who gets frustrated and can [yes, its true] become selfish or impatient, my Heavenly Father loves me perfectly, and He gives the best gifts... even more than my own generous dad does! And THAT boggles my mind.
[And, women, if you're reading this-- because I know some of you will-- how about we start practicing the art of thankfulness? I know I take people in my life for granted WAY too much... my family most of all. Its a shame that those who love me the most, sacrifice the most for me, and who are there for me through it all are the ones I forget to thank sometimes. Let's change the habit.]
Anyway, getting to the point:
My dad is one of the most incredible men I have ever had the privilege of knowing.
He is just such a fantastic leader for our family, a loving husband to my mom, a fun& selfless dad, and just an overall great example.
Yesterday, Jen& I walked into the living room to spy my parents sitting on a bench on the front porch, just laughing& talking& joking around. We didn’t even know they were home, and it made me smile to think that they had gotten home from church [together], and just took a minute to stop & enjoy the day and a few minutes of conversation before they even came inside.
This morning, my dad said, “Ahh… Monday, Monday.” [Yes, he was making a Mamas& the Papas reference. We love them.]
I thought he might follow with something like, “Man, that weekend went too quickly.” or “Well, there’s another long week ahead of us.”
Instead he said, “This is the day that the Lord has made, and we will rejoice& be glad in it!”
Might I just let you in on a little secret? MY DAD DID NOT EVEN GET A WEEKEND.
He worked 40 hours this week at his job doing maintenance in the school district [that alone impresses me, that he does not think he is “above” any type of work, but works fixing toilets& roofs& air conditioning units from Monday- Friday, and gets in the pulpit to teach on Wednesday& Sunday.].
On Saturday, he worked all day painting, fixing, and preparing our old house for the new renters. Sunday was church. Anyone who is a pastor or who knows a pastor well knows that, for pastors, Sundays are work, too.
He had a few hours of free time yesterday afternoon. 3 hours. All week.
Yet, this morning, he didn’t even complain. He praised God for another day.
Come to think of it, I was trying to think of the last time I heard him complain, and I can’t even remember. When I ask him, “Hey Papa, how was work?” he usually says, “It was good!” [Really? Fixing plumbing was “good”? Really?]. The worst I’ve ever heard him say is, “Oh… work was work!”
I LOVE MY DAD.
He is the best example, and a man who truly has the heart of a servant.
I know he will never read this, because he doesn’t even know about this blog, but goodness gracious… If you ever see my dad, please give him a hug or a nice, firm handshake.
He deserves it.
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