Fill in The Blank Friday!

I haven't been able to do one of these in a while!  So thanks to Lauren at the little things we do... for the blanks!! Link up & play along!

 1. My current obsession is...  finding the perfect, most flattering skinny jeans for this shorty & the perfect fall boots to go with

2.  Quality time with family  makes me happy.

3.  My greatest strength is  my ability to get super focused and get junk done. And I'm pretty good at going all private investigator and solving problems 

4.  Letting my emotions get the better of me is my greatest weakness.

5.  My life is challenging but incredibly blessed. There's not much I would change

6.  In high school I was not really in any group, so I kind of floated. Which had it's advantages & dis-advantages.

7.  When I'm super tired I definitely get foggy brained and a little testy/emotional.

Phew -- so a few days ago, I wrote about how marriage is often times more challenging than anything else, but how it's incredibly worth it.  Well the Lord heard me and the next night here were Ike & I in a full on emotional discussion (aka fight).  But like I said, it's those conversations that require vulnerability & grace, which in turns brings a new closeness.  Though the particular conversation was challenging -- the result is a better understanding of my husband, and for that I am grateful.

<3

Quality People

I am admittedly not a "girls girl."  I've never quite clicked with most girls -- perhaps it's because I don't like to participate in the drama, or it's because I don't really do surface friendships well.  Honestly if I don't easily connect with other ladies or can't easily/quickly find some base common ground, it doesn't typically end with deep long lasting friendships.


Something I'm not terribly proud of - but at this point in my life I'm not in to faking it with people.  The people I want to surround myself with are people of quality and of good character.  And I know it might sound crazy, but I have a pretty strong & accurate gut feeling/reaction about people.  It's easy for me to dial in quickly to the real situation -- and often times I don't get the "quality person" vibe.


Here's what happens....I don't spend time with those people, with people I don't jive with.  And honestly, I'm not about to feel bad about that.  Is that terrible??
What are your thoughts about this whole post?
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Sometimes It's Just Plain Hard

Have you ever met those couples that just look like they have it all going on?  The ones that are totally in to PDA with no fear of who's around or who might see.  The ones that literally never say anything negative about their spouse (this trait is not one that I disagree with....personally think you should try to never speak ill of the one you love to anyone).    The ones who make everything look & seem so effortless.  If I were to be completely honest -- there are times when I meet these people that I want to shake them.  Shake them and yell that it isn't that easy.  Take it from me, it's not that easy.

Sometimes it's going to bed upset(because honestly, there are times when you need to sleep to cool down), sometimes it's putting the dirty dishes in the dishwasher for the 1 millionth time, sometimes it's waiting up to have hard conversations, sometimes it's sacrificing the "big" things for the"small".

With that said -- just because it's sometimes hard doesn't mean that it isn't completely worth it.  Worth every late night conversation.  Worth every mis-understanding so that you can come out on the other side with a better understanding of the person beside you.  Worth every extra dish or load of laundry because those are ways to show your love.  Worth the sacrifice of some things for others that will strengthen your bond.

It is with all humility that I share these thoughts, as I'm not that far down the marriage path.  Barely beyond our 2 year anniversary, and I know there are a wealth of challenges waiting to be faced.  But I can honestly share that everything I have shared with Isaac has impacted & shaped our friendship, our relationship, our marriage & our love.  I couldn't ask for a better partner, friend, cohort, encourager, and support.  Despite the challenges faced and yet to be faced, I know that I have a man by my side who will hold me up in my weakest moments, who will defend my honor until his dying breath, who will love me despite my weaknesses/sinfulness.  And I am eager to do the same and give thanks for the times where I do this for Isaac in return.  

Sure life is hard, marriage is hard, friendships are hard, parenting is hard (I'm sure much harder than I can even imagine), believing is hard, trusting is hard.  But the outcome is often always worth it.  In church yesterday, Pastor Barry shared how Paul never loosened his grip on the truth, the message, & the love freely given from Christ.  In the face of incredible trials, Paul made the conscious choice to continue moving forward....even if it was slow, even in the midst of obstacles....he continued forward.  Progress is progress.  And as my running aunties say, "Miles are miles, no matter how you get 'em."  The truth is so simple.  And for that I am thankful, because the simplicity makes it attainable.  

I will not strive to portray an image of perfection.  Rather I hope to offer a more true picture of a Christ focused, trusting, loving marriage -- a marriage that sticks together in the face of incredible obstacles, a marriage that goes to bat for the other no matter the cost, & a marriage that is honest about the trials.  I shared previously that one of the best pieces of advice I ever received was to be kind to one another.  To add to that, a piece of wisdom shared from our marriage counselor (& one of Isaac's mentors)....Marriage is incredibly difficult.......and incredibly worth it!  May we hold on to that notion thru the good & bad, the easier & more challenging times.  
<3

Mental Cul-De-Sac

Let's be honest right now....I have typed out about 3 different blog posts and trashed them all.  It's as though I have entered a mental cul-de-sac.

It's hard to come up with ideas for a post every once in a while.  It's hard for me because it's hard not to compare my blog to other blogs I read/follow.  Then the little whispers start in...you're not as "cool," "trendy," you don't go on enough adventures or capture them as well.  

But here's the truth....my blog is my blog.  My thoughts are my thoughts.  I don't need to be like any one else.  Nor do I want to be like any one else.  My parents love me as their daughter, my brother as his sister, my husband as his wife.  The most important people in my life love me all the same, and I them.  There are too many things about my life that are good to get caught up in those silly thoughts.  When things in my life are pertinent, funny, or just normal I'll share them.  Because I've always likened myself to being your average, American girl -- so why try to be anything different via my blog??

Back to my crazy exciting night as a football wife --- grocery shopping, and watching Dateline.  Yah, it's a whirlwind life I lead. ;)

<3

My New Adventure/Challenge

I recently was invited to join my dear friend Monique to an introductory class with Bible Study Fellowship (or BSF...interested, check them out here).  I've heard about BSF before, and know plenty of people who been involved & loved the challenge and focus of it.  It's an intensive, 8 year plan to go thru 8 specific books of the Bible, each cycle focusing on one book.  It's purely study - you have daily study, meet weekly for a lecture, small group sharing, and fellowship.  There isn't much time for gabbing....in fact it's generally not allowed to discuss anything that isn't directly focused on the material for that week.  In the past I wasn't able to go as the women's gathering is on Monday nights & I always had YoungLife club to be at.

Well I've been one night and am already totally hooked!  The women seem wonderful, I truly enjoy that we sing hymns(my little heart's love), and I am especially liking that we come back together for a short lecture time.  And I also think it's pretty cool that anyone & everyone actively doing BSF are all studying the exact same thing.  Very cool.

The daily studying is something I've been yearning for.  The hard line Bible focus itches that academic scratch I have.  And being around other women of all ages, walks, denominations meets my need to be in community.  All in all it's something that seems to be perfectly planned/timed for where I am in life presently.  Amazing how God works and the way that He plans things to come together.
Have you ever participated in BSF?  What did you like/dis-like about it? Any tips or thoughts?  Are you currently participating? Where are you in the journey?
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Ohhhhh Family!

I am literally containing my hysterical laughing at my parents...they are freakin' hilarious sometimes. My crazy dad andhis random outbursts & my focused mom who makes her presence known at all times.

Even if they drive me nuts sometimes they're not all bad, thankfully.  I think I forget how fun & funny they are.  But tonight is a good reminder....  They're not all bad :)

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A Whisper

I've been trying to listen for the small whispers from the Lord...to be more aware of His leadings.  And I'm glad I've been listening because I've felt really led to start praying for Isaac's football team....each player, by name.  Along with the football coaches.  
There have been some situations going on that have been challenging for Isaac, for the other coaches, for the kids, and then of course for the wives/families of the coaches & the kids.  And I'm not even sure there is anyone praying for these kids -- not just for what they can do on the football field but for who they are as people.


So starting tomorrow morning (goal is prayer for every kid on game days) I'll be praying thru the roster. I'm kind of excited about it to be honest.  I always know a few specific kids each season, but this will be a cool way to know who each kid is. 


Ok...back to my laundry (story of my life in the fall)...
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Kindness

A few weeks ago I was at a reception here in Oregon for a long time friend who recently had gotten married.  Truth be told -- growing up the two of us could not be separated.  Ryan and I were two peas in a pod & did everything together.  Of course over the years, and with the introduction of high school, we slowly lost touch.  But being at his party, meeting his new wife, and talking like no time had passed reminded me that old friends can still be good friends.

As we were talking he asked if I had an sage words of wisdom....I chuckled and reminded him I've only been at this a little over 2 years.  But shared with him that one of the best pieces of advice we received when Isaac & I married was from his mom.  And it was simply to remember to be kind to one another, in all situations.  Simple right?

Isaac & I had a long conversation last evening about a particular situation he's in/experiencing right now; and how he's battling against frustration.  The only thing I could think of to say to him is to stand by his convictions, and to remember to be kind.  It's amazing how a little kindness can so further than you'd expect.  
So friends, shall we try to go out of our way and be more kind to one another? I think a lot more would get accomplished, and people will likely feel better about themselves & their situations.
<3

Counting My Blessings

Alright -- I've decidedly made it through the 1st two weeks of the football season.  Despite my complaints in my last post, I have survived.  And I believe this year I've survived more so because I wasn't afraid to tell those around me that I was lonely, or needed a friend, or needed any excuse to get out of my house.  Swallowing my pride this year definitely made the difference in keeping me from becoming a self-loathing, pity party loving, annoyingly depressing woman.  I'll have to remember this for next year and get a better jump on it!

But out of those two weeks I have yet again gained a perspective of how wonderful the people around me are.  How incredibly giving and loving they are.  How they care about who I am & more importantly, how I'm doing.  I only pray that I am able to offer this in return to them when they need this encouragement.
I'm moving back in to my running routine with the help of the fabulous "Running Aunties" I'm blessed to know.  I'm blessed to have spent some quality time with AnneMarie -- who's husband is the head coach for my husband's football team.  She is quality, and I so appreciate the real-ness that she brings to every situation, no sugar coating, no BS -- just real life AnneMarie.  I'm blessed with some of the very best girl friends out there.  Like Mo who invited me over for dinner last night with her & her husband (whom I lovingly call Yearbster).  We haven't had much time to connect recently and it was absolutely worth the 15 minute drive to her house to eat together, visit, and of course get the obligatory frozen yogurt!

And most of all I am blessed with a husband who loves what he does, seeks to include me in all areas of his life & passions, and loves me to the moon and back (and I love him the same as well).  I know he's been working like crazy these last few weeks, and with two hard losses on the books he's been putting in over time to try and best prepare the other staff and the players.  So I wanted him to know how much I appreciate his dedication...I bought the man a round of golf at our local course to have an afternoon of relaxation & decompressing.  Boy I'll tell you -- there is nothing better than the purity of a grateful smile and sincere hug.  He was elated when I handed him that certificate (which I'm sure he'll be using this weekend while I'm out of town!).  It is such a joyous feeling to bring joy to the ones you love.

I'm letting go of that negative attitude from my last post.  I'm passing on the negative ranting & raving of football.  I'm moving away from pouting.  Instead I'll count my blessings, I'll be thankful for evenings on the couch together -- even if they do include breaking down film.  I'll be thankful for football games together on Saturdays -- even if they are our "date night" activity.  I'll be thankful for a man who diligently wakes up every day to go to work (without complaint), who cares deeply for his students & his players, who strives for excellence in all that he does, and longs to be an image & ambassador for Christ in all areas of his life.

Those are just a few of my blessings -- for which I'm giving all praise to the Lord above.  For nothing comes to us without first sifting this HIS hands.  He knows the plans he has for us...."plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
<3

Tough Transition

This time of year is always hard for me.  I know I've mentioned it a few times but with fall in full swing, football has literally taken over my house and my marriage to a degree.
I always know to expect the flood of events, the flood of football related commitments; but there is one aspect of this season that seems to take me by surprise.  The amount of alone time is always a little hard to digest at the beginning of the season.


Example...Saturday morning, 1st Saturday post game...I was home alone cleaning, preparing for some of the football coaches to come over to *gasp* watch a football game.  Saturday evening was spent with wonderful friends & new friends.  Sunday took hubby back to school at about 1pm for school prep & football meeting, not returning until about 830pm.  And then despite the holiday on Monday, it was back to school at about 11:30am for football work, football meetings, football practice, more prep, football team dinner and then home about 9pm.  Needless to say I essentially spent the weekend alone.  Now normally I don't let this get me down...but it's always the first one or two weekends that kill me.  Now add to that scenario my three best friends are out of town, my parents are in Arkansas, and my sister & her family are out of town.  It felt like I was literally, not figuratively, alone with no one to call.  Insert pathetic, couch bum day on Monday.  Yup -- I was that girl.  The girl with no life, no friends, etc.  It was hard to ignore the lies that Satan was trying to sell me that day -- hell, it was impossible not to hear, and buy in to.  Boy oh boy was it hard...


All this to say that although I would absolutely never ask Isaac to do anything than what he is doing right now, it's still hard to transition from our summer life back in to school/football zone.  Because it's hard not to feel like I'm supposed to be a specific type of wife, or do specific tasks because I'm a football wife.  


So here's to another season.  Another year.  And hopefully this time of transition will pass quickly and I can move in to the joyful, fun part of this season in our lives.  
How do you handle times of transition like this? Regardless of how short the times of transition are.
<3

Kickin' Up My Feet!

Today has been the longest, craziest, busiest day we have had in such a long time.  As I've stated before, things tend to get nuts right before anyone on our team goes out of town.  And this is no different -- my mom is headed out to Arkansas for the weekend with my dad to visit his best friend; and my little brother is surprising them in Arkansas! Wish I could be there.


But this afternoon and tonight I am going to just kick up my feet and relax.  I'm going to revel in the fact that I got an approval letter on a short sale that has just been a pain in the butt.  I'm going to celebrate my friend Eric for putting together an amazing $438,000 deal.  And I'm going to give all the praise for this busyness to the Lord above.  He is always good and when you rely on Him and trust in His plan, He is faithful.  And boy is he ever faithful!  Looking forward to more craziness, we're thankful to be busy.


The only thing missing right now is a dirty Arnie in my hand!! Any one want to make a delivery?! ;)
<3