His Words Spoken through a Filter...

God will use Anything to get our attention sometimes...even ol' hair dryers!

You know those filters your hair dryer has- that you're suppose to clean out from time to time ;p well one particular morning I was trying to clean out mine to get the ol thing to dry better- it had def lost some of it's blowing power- so I removed the end -cleaned it out and put the cap back on and proceeded to dry my hair. I noticed though that it didn't seem all that much better- still running a bit slow and with less power then it was capable of but I proceeded anyway. About half way through though I 'accidentally' dropped the thing and wouldn't you know the filter cap popped off and with it Another filter flew out. Yep my dryer has 3 filters and I was oblivious- so of course that extra one was crazy full of lint/dust. After I took care of it-put it all back together and turned it on- it was like new again- my hair dried in seconds! 

In that moment God spoke so clearly to my heart...

He said, "Sommer quite often you are like that hair dryer... Your life's so full of 'stuff' that you can't run as I've created you to. 

Sure the stuff can all be good- but it isn't all that I've asked of you- remember, "my yoke is easy & my burden light" (Matthew 11:30). When you fill up your life with so much it leaves you with less energy -often feeling drained or overwhelmed. Most importantany though the things I've called you to you aren't able to be your Best at. When you clear out the 'junk' -all the extras- be those things good & great- you'll find you have more energy- work more quickly & with ease- you'll have room for margin when other things 'pop up' that you hadn't planned for -things/people I place in your path to bless."

Yep that morning I sure learned A Lot from just blow drying my hair ;) 

God is Good... And He always speaks Truth in Love. 

Stop Church

The title of this post may have caught your attention a bit =p  Last week at our church's wonderful MOPS group we were encouraged to share a bit deeper into our "Story". Those two words are greatly a part of mine - one in which I actually chose Not to share last week - but may in the future. Or maybe after posting it here it won't be necessary -lol.

You see we all have a Story - or rather a "Testimony" as the Good Book likes to call it. We all have things we have overcome or areas in which we struggle a bit to be completely set free from. These aren't meant to be things for others to judge us by or things to 'mark' our lives as being worthy or unworthy - better or less then anyone around us. They aren't things at all but parts and pieces that make up our whole being - our Story. And when we are able to share a bit more deeply some of those pieces with others - maybe in a more intimate group then the World Wide Web =p but in whatever context we feel comfortable or beautifully stretched in doing so - we not only set more of those pieces free - we also help encourage & uplift others ... even if it's just to help them realize they aren't alone.

So back to my two little words that have forever altered my being... I've decided to share in hopes of helping someone know two things - 1. You aren't alone in the anxieties & fears you face & 2. God says YES He loves you That Much....!

Here's my Story.
Years ago -we'll just say it's been more then 10 (I don't want to age myself too much here;) but one night during my last semester in college I had a crazy moment that changed my 'mind' forever. You know when someone asks you when something occurred in your life and you can recall it so well in detail it's like it happened yesterday?! Well this is one of those moments for me when someone asks me 'when did fear take root in your life'? Not that I'm asked that question much thank goodness -lol- but when someone can see through my walls of security that I try so well to put up - and really ask me the harder questions- this is one I now truly have no problem in sharing - thus why I've decided to blog about it- because I've realized in doing so too many people have or continue to deal with such similar things in their own personal way (if that makes sense;)

Like I said it was one night during my last semester - finals week when most of us were up cramming for one exam after another. In the beginning of that week I had asked my roommate if she had a sleeping pill I could take to help me finally get some much needed rest- since I wasn't able to naturally sleep well for several days. So I followed the directions and took one- it didn't seem to help. A few nights later I asked for another - I took 2 - I figured maybe it would work this time. It worked all right - in the form of overdose symptoms. My tongue began to feel twice it's size - my mouth was so dry no amount of water seemed to help - and then things in the room began to appear closer then they actually were. Freaked out is how I felt- totally scared having no idea what was going on with me yet knowing it was obviously from taking one too many sleeping pills. I woke one of my roommates who so sweetly sat with me and called our campus ER so a nurse could tell me what I already knew - that yes my body was just reacting from too much of a certain drug and in about 4 hours it would wear off. Yep 4 hours- so much for that sleep right-lol. Even though my sweet roommie said she'd sit up with me I totally felt silly and definitely didn't want her to lose sleep herself over my negligence in following simple directions- so I did the next best thing I knew to do- I called my Granny- because as some know- my Granny was Always up late =p So she stayed up and chatted the night away with me until my tongue felt normal again and objects in the room appeared in their proper places.

Now to most that story I'm sure doesn't seem crazy or odd or one in which that could alter someone's 'mind' enough to ever even make their Top 10 list of things worth remembering but to me it did. To me that one simple act planted a seed of fear deep within me that I've struggled to be completely set free from. And what I mean by that is that I began 'allowing' my mind to play tricks on me. And I say allowing because I've greatly learned that we play a part - the Largest part - in what thoughts we allow to grow in our minds - thoughts that can manifest themselves into other areas of our lives and even begin to control us if we don't begin to speak back at them- and speaking back with God's Words are the only things that can truly set us free! So for me- back then- those roots began to grow. I allowed my mind to think crazy things - like when I would eat something - something as simple as applesauce - one of my favs- I would think - well what if I have an allergic reaction to that- what if my throat closes us and I can't breathe and even worse... what if I die!?! Yeah crazy - I told ya! Thankfully at that time I spared those around me and I stuffed my thoughts - I'd say a prayer quietly - that I'd live and not die -lol- and try to focus my mind on something else... or worse- at times I'd actually avoid even a poor plate with applesauce on it. But as most of us know- stuffing our problems or just trying to focus on something else- doesn't pull up those roots. So they remained - and they actually grew into other areas- areas like- stress- which grew into physical symptoms where I'd even feel shakey - obviously from my nerves but being in my early 20s I didn't quite realize the control our minds and nerves and stress can truly have on our bodies - so it just caused me to mentally freak out a bit more. During this time I had graduated college - moved back home & was planning my wedding. My parents bless their hearts knew something was wrong and had me go see a Dr for a complete physical and blood work - trying to see if there was truly something 'wrong' with their daughter. Thankfully not- but not thankfully for me being as I wanted someone to tell me that it was 'something' so I could put a name on it and take a pill (in proper dosage) for it and be rid of it- whatever 'it' was. But it grew- in silence my fears and anxious thoughts grew.

Oh on the outside most knew nothing - not even those closest to me. I mean seriously who wants to tell a BFF or your hubby-to-be that you think you might Die if you eat that apple sauce tonight! lol. seriously! So I continued on in spite of myself and my crazy thoughts I would have from time to time. I got married - moved into our first house- and began a new life with the one I loved. But God. Thankfully He knew my thoughts - Thankfully He saw fit to save me from myself! So He Stopped Church... for little ol' me.

My wonderful mother-in-law had been inviting Joe and I to a revival service at her church for days. We attended a different church at the time and kept putting off her invite over the silly excuses we all can make from time to time - 'we had a long day at work, we're tired, maybe tomorrow'. Well thankfully she kept on asking right up until the last night their special speaker was to be preaching. We said yes and this is the best part of my Story.

Their revival speaker was a petite spit-fire lady with a strong Australian accent named Shirley Jones. A lady who's obedience and heart for God I will forever be thankful for! You see as I sat there among the congregation that night only God above knew I had been dealing on and off with those crazy thoughts - thoughts the enemy meant to use ultimately to defeat me. As I was sitting there trying to focus on Ms. Jones powerful God message the thought came to me, "I need prayer- right now. Oh how I wish she'd stop preaching and pray for me"! Then of course my next thought was "Who am I - no one is going to Stop Church for me"! But God- at that exact moment without skipping a beat- little Ms Shirley Jones stopped mid-preach =) excused herself from the congregation by saying - "There's someone here I need to pray for so please excuse me for a moment" - walked directly towards me and asked in her sweet Australian accent if she could pray for me! God Stopped Church.... for me! As that dear Blessed Australian lady prayed quietly over me - she didn't just pray generic prayers- she prayed Life - she prayed and spoke words over me that only God above knew I was dealing with- specific things meant only for me from Him because He knew I needed to hear. And He knew I needed to know that Yes I was worth it & Yes I was important enough for someone to Stop Church.

And it's not just meant for me my friends... He needs Each of you to know that You Are Worth It! Yes we know He died for each of us - a gruesome death on a bloody cross - so we could one day spend eternity with Him- Praise God- but He also died so that you would DAILY know you are important to Him. Every single part of you - every single crazy thought you may have- He cares about it all!

And I needed to remind someone of that tonight.

Through that piece of my Story I've shared with you God's thankfully grown me - because I've allowed Him to. One person at a time - one more in depth conversation over a cup of coffee - each time I've allowed myself to open up and share- He's poured out more Joy and Confirmation and Love over me - and often I'm blessed to see Him do so onto the person listening to my crazy tale =p So He's helping me pull up those roots ... and no longer water them.

I'll forever be indebted to Ms. Shirley Jones. She could have been one of the many who I'm truly thankful for praying over me throughout my lifetime... but instead she's just a bit more. I mean seriously... You've gotta realize that little petite spit-fire of a lady had to have one awesomely close relationship with God in order to be able to Hear His voice and Act in Immediate Obedience to what He was asking her to do- to Stop Church- for little ol' me. That my friends - that is a woman who's become one of my earthly heroes. Because I too now desire to be That Obedient to Him - no matter what others may think- no matter how I may look- because there just might be someone who needs to be reminded that Yes You Are Worth It- Yes God Loves You That Much - Yes.... He Will
Stop Church.

October.

If you're actually among the few to read this ol' post- you better grab a cup of something and get cozy- it's a long one ;p

October. 

I love this time of year! The weather cools off - the leaves start to change - jackets and pretty scarves begin to be pulled out - cute boots get to be worn (but not out of necessity just yet;) -pumpkin patches are found around every corner - apples are ripe for picking - nights around the bonfire begin again - hayrides and corn mazes are penciled in on the To-Do list & the Season of Autumn truly begins to take root. Or at least it use to. 

Florida is different. Florida Fall for me is something that I'm realizing I need to work at appreciating. I feel bad even admitting that! It's beautiful here - I truly have NO right to complain. I have just realized that instead of the winter blues that I often felt in MD - due to the fact that my bones just hate the cold (and yes cold to me is anything below 65;) I have the Autumn blues here in FL because I just LOVED this time of year in MD so very much. And frankly it's just weird to me that I shouldn't be looking for warm fluffy or furry Halloween costumes for the kidddos because here they would fall over from heat exhaustion before a sugar crash! So of course this is the time of year when I do find myself home sick a bit- and for those family & friends who read this it isn't the weather alone- it's the fall gatherings that occur during this time as well which means spending time w/ many of you watching our kiddos pick pumpkins together or beg a stranger for candy or sit around a fire -any and everything that involves You- I miss. And that's when the miles and distance are felt the most. But here we are.... =)

Called to Florida as I say 'for such a time as this'. In truth that could mean forever or for just a few years- only God knows. But I do know that He brought us here and I shall not complain (just vent a bit-lol) on my Seasonal Blues. And above all I will continue to Greatly thank the Lord for the new friends He has brought into my life here- some who even seem like they've always been a part =) And that simple reason was one day brought to my attention when a dear friend sat at our bar in 66Beans and told me that friendships like those are rooted in the 'spiritual' so it's natural to seem as if you've always known or will know someone =) I think there's a lot of truth in that. In fact I know there's a lot of truth in that!

When we first moved here last summer I prayed for the friends I knew I needed! After all don't we need to do life with others? So leaving behind so very many wonderful people and coming to a place where no one knew me or knew my family - where I came from- who my husband was - how many kids I had - where I grew up - how many times I've changed my hair color ;p I knew I needed people - ladies who would become good friends- quickly! And for me there's only one place to meet people fast who I'd have common ground with right from the start- church. 

If there's been any constant in my life other then family & friends it's been God. Jesus. His Spirit. He's been my anchor in times when the waves of life have wanted to pull me under. He's been my rock when everything around me felt so unstable. He's brought me Joy & Peace that I'd only know through knowing Him. And I only hope you can say the same! Blessed to be raised in a Christian home I can only imagine what it must be like to endure moments of unrest - moments of crazy sadness - burdened and rocked to your core - moments of silly seasonal Blues -without knowing The One who can rescue you from those times and cause your eyes to look up & to See His Love all around. Because it's there for us- daily and it's a Love that's so deep that it can only come from Him. In fact it's a place deep within each of us that He created so that we would at some point get to a place where we realized we were missing Him all along. (i didn't make that up-it's in the bible;) And even for those of us who Believe - those of us who are 'known by our Love' go through times when we allow life to take first place and our eyes begin to shift from Him to everything or everyone else around us. And oh how easily it can occur in our fast paced world - even when we busy ourselves with "His work". 

What do I mean & how do I know- I've been there- too many times than I'd like to recall.

Living here in FL now for over a year I've had numerous friends and family from back home tell me "FL looks so good on you" or "You look so happy" -which first makes me question how I was looking before -lol- but truly it's made me evaluate why. For me I know it's more then all the Vitamin D I'm soaking in - and I know it's more then the fact that I get to enjoy more family time - but it's Greatly due to the fact that I've made my relationship with God a priority again. Truth be told if I were in MD living the same lifestyle we have here I would be hearing the same. It's not Location - it's not the new Vocation- it's Determination in keeping first things first again. Back home I allowed the business of 'doing good things for Him' replace my personal time with Him- and the scary thing is I didn't even realize it. But He did. He Knew. And He rescued me from myself. Now that may sound weird or extreme to some -thinking I needed to be rescued- but truly I did. Life began to get so out of balance - and I couldn't blame it on having a business - couldn't blame it on taking on design jobs on the side to help out financially - couldn't blame it on saying yes to this 'good thing' or to that good thing - I could only blame it on allowing all those things to replace Him - to crowd out my time with Him. So the pressure and the stress piled up- as it does for so many of us - and for me it began to manifest itself in ways of a constant rapid heart beat - the kind that wakes you up from a dead sleep with your heart pounding like you ran a marathon. Mental manifesting itself into the physical - later to be revealed that it was rooted in the spiritual. And this realization only truly occurred this past year when God had to literally Move me not just physically but spiritually. And He could only do that because I became so desperate in my crying out to Him (scared something was greatly wrong with my body) that I finally placed Him first again. I didn't squeeze Him in- I squeezed everything else in- and He once again was able to direct my steps. He was able to do what I couldn't do alone - bring me the Peace that I was so desperately in need and search of and once again I was able to Hear His voice! And a few things He has had to say haven't necessarily been easy to swallow- some things I hope to slowly reveal through words on this screen when time allows (but now I have hungry kiddos I'm going to have to attend to and for your sake it'd make this long post even longer). 

So I'll wrap it up with this - because truly it's the thing that you too can be Blessed by-

"Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you" -Matthew 6:33

Basically if we would just remember to keep God first - first in our every day lives - from the simplest of things to the greatest of things (because after all it's all simple to Him) - everything else will flow with a lot more ease. He'll be able to move in and around us. He'll be able to direct our steps - He'll be able to help us say No to the things we aren't called to do or be a part of when we'd love to say yes and add them to our plate. We'll find Rest for our Souls - and our bodies -because He knows for us mamas especially - a worn down body is Not a good thing ;) We will begin to realize margin is a good thing and filling our schedules to the max isn't what He requires (after all Jesus himself rested while walking here on earth) - He'll reveal to us that at times even the things that we could use our gifts and talents to help others out still aren't meant to be things for us to do at this time. Life comes in Seasons... and this Autumn Season friends I only hope you feel Peace and Joy & I hope you're surrounded by those you love who begin to say... "You look so much Happier"! =) 

Inspiring One Another

This weekend I snatched up this book & devoured it! It didn't take me long to realize this wasn't just any old Interior Design or Decorating book- it's so much more! It's a book written for anyone desiring to create Home right where they're at! And to quote The Nester herself, "It doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful." 

Once I cracked open the pages and read this statement I knew I'd read this one from cover to cover! Myquillyn Smith, known as The Nester to the fabulous blogging world just met me where I'm at... currently an apartment dweller designing gorgeous spaces in client's homes on a daily basis while I try to look past my own desires to create- or rather recreate this place we are living in-into our Home for the moment. Just like so many of you I've dreamed of my Dream Home for as long as I can remember & diving back into the design world full time this yr (after having sold our coffee shop bk in MD) I'm faced with the daily reminder of all the things I don't have- can't do at the moment- or can't afford right now. Poor pitiful me I know-lol. While we do have a roof over our heads and plenty to eat with kids that are healthy & jobs we enjoy I still find time to complain... But no longer! 

                   The Nesting Place

Several months back I began focussing on all the positives of apartment life during this season in our lives & then after reading The Nesting Place not only was I encouraged to continue doing just that but I became inspired to create our little space into more of the Home of my dreams for the moment. No we may not have our own backyard but we've got a large courtyard full of beautiful green grass for our boys to run and play ball -we've got a playground & two pools to choose from and a gym & community space... All of which I don't have to take care of! Which means more family time for us! My hubby doesn't have to mow the lawn- we don't need to dish out the dollars on pool or insect maintenance and if anything breaks in our space- as quick as a phone call and it's taken care of- at no additional cost to us! Those are the things I choose to focus on when I begin to sing the blues of not yet living in my 'true dream home' yet. And the words of our oldest son Andrew as he shared with grandparents this past New Year's Eve when asked what his favorite thing that happened last year was- he replied, "moving to FL because we have more family time". 

So if we must be in this space during this season- Renters now and no longer home owners- I'll take it & create a beautiful Home rt where we're at... Remembering "It doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful". 

Visit www.thenester.com for inspiration & encouragement yourself :) you'll be glad you stopped by!

Lifetime of Lasts

I read another great book recently- in it was written a sweet poem from a Mother to her son about to marry. I'm not going to lie- I shed a tear. It got me thinking- as any great book should- and I think I'm going to steal it and pass it on to my sons one day.
Until then I thought I'd share it with you- my friends and mom pals who- like me- will be left with a beautiful reflection of "Lasts" ....

"Long ago you came to me, a miracle of firsts
First smiles and teeth and baby steps, a sunbeam on the burst.
But one day you will move away and leave to me your past,
And I will be left thinking of a lifetime of your lasts.

The last time that I held a bottle to your baby lips
Last time that I lifted you and held you on my hip
Last time when you had a binky stuck inside your mouth
The last time that you crawled across the floor of this old house.

Last time when you ran to me, still small enough to hold,
Last time when you said you'd marry me when you grew old.
Precious simple moments and bright flashes from the past,
Would I have held you longer if I'd known they were the last?

Your last few hours of Kindergarten, last days of first grade
Last at bat in Little League, last colored paper made.
Last time that I tucked you on for one last midday nap
Last time when you word your beat up Packers (insert Vikinkgs:) cap.

Last time that you caught a frog in that old backyard pond
Last time when you ran barefoot across our fresh-cut lawn.
Silly scattered images to represent your past.
Would I have taken pictures...if I'd known they were your last

Last dark night you slipped in bed and slept between us two
When last I read to you of God or Horton Hears a Who!
Last time that I smelled your hair and prayed after your shower
Last time that we held devotions in the evening hours.

The last time you were M.J. in our games of give-and-go
Last time that you made an angel in the melting snow.
I never even said goodbye to yesterdays long passed
Would I have marked the moments...if I'd known they were the last?

Last piano lesson and last soccer goal you kicked
The last few weeks of middle school, last flowers that you picked.
Last time that you needed me for rides from here to there
The last time that you spent the night with that old tattered bear.

Last time that I helped you with a math or spelling test
Last time that I shouted that your room was still a mess.
Time and life moved quicker, taking pieces of your past.
Would I have stretched the moments...if I'd known they were the last?

The last time that you needed help with details of a dance
Last time that you asked me for advice about romance.
Last time that you talked to me about your hopes and dreams.
Last time that you wore a jersey for your highschool team.

I watched you grow and never noticed seasons as they passed.
I wish I could've frozen time, to hold on to your lasts.
For come tomorrow morning life will never be the same.
You'll pledge forever to your girl, and she will take your name.

And I will watch you, knowing God has blessed you with this day.
I never would have wanted, to somehow make you stay
They say a sons a son until he takes for him a wife.
You're grown-up now; it's time to go and start your brand new life.

One last hug, one last goodbye one quick and hurried kiss
One last time to understand just how much you'll be missed.
I'll watch you leave and think how quickly childhood sped past.
Would I have held on longer...if I'd known it was your last?"

-"Rejoice" by Karen Kingsbury

You know you're a Mom when you say - think - Or think you said the following... All before noon!

 

We don't play in the toilet

Get that out of the tub

 

I love you!

 

Get off your brother

Stop touching your brother

Don't hit your brother

Don't sit on your brother

NO!

 

Please take that off your head

Please get off my bed

 

I love you!

 

Coffee - did I already have my coffee

Is it too early for more coffee

Is it too late for more coffee

 

Sit down

Put that down

Get down

Put that back

NO!

 

I love you!

 

Stop running

Stop pestering your brother

Stop licking that!

Stop whining

 

One- One child would have been easier ;)

 

I love you!

 

Please get up

Please sit up

Please stand up

Please hush up

NO!

 

 

Dirty- No touch

No punching

No throwing

No jumping on the couch

No chocking your brother

 

I love you!

 

Please listen

Please stop yelling

Please talk softer

Please turn that off

Please turn that down

NO!

 

Breakfast- did I eat breakfast

 

I love you!

 

Calm down

Quiet down

Don't eat that

Don't drink that

Put that back

NO!

 

I love you!

 

 

That's not a toy

That's not food

That's not a game

 

Nap... is it nap time yet?

Nope - we've only been up an hour :/

 

 

I love my boys & wouldn't have it any other way =)

 

 

 

 

Well we did it... We moved to Sunny FL & this post is Long Overdue!

To say that 2013 caught me off guard would be the biggest Understatement of the year! If you were to tell me several months back my family of 4 would be packing up our belongings and moving out of state- leaving behind family - friends - our fabulous church & a coffee shop for sale I would have just stared at you in disbelief! 

So many things though - looking back now on my brief lifetime of Blessings- have come at me like that- things that only God in His greatness could explain! Isn't that how He tends to work best though - by surprising us and using 'the least of these' to make Himself known & Big! =) I am sure you too have a list full of crazy Blessings yourself! I think sometimes though we need to take that extra few minutes to really look back over our own history in the making to see His fingerprints all along the way =)

Florida though - craziness! I don't think there's ever an easy move when people are leaving behind so much - so maybe that's why God moved so swiftly for us - so we wouldn't have time to sit around and mull over the idea and take charge ourselves & change our minds & stay...! I told many friends w/ this adjustment I almost imagined this must be like what some military family's feel when they are told quickly they need to relocate (God Bless Each of Them for doing so in serving our Country- you are STRONG individuals risking Great!). Many have asked the famous "Why" question so I guess I'll get to that- 

To be honest with you Joe has been seeking out a new job for well over a year - applying to various positions (government contract jobs & metro police & more) but nothing ever opened up- so as most -he endured a pay-cut and just held on to the hope that something would come along during his search. As for me- my heart resided at 66Beans - but as most small business owners know- just b/c your heart and body are somewhere- doesn't mean it's paying the bills =p So among working in the shop I was trying to take on small side jobs here and there to make ends meet- however it didn't take too long or too many of those to realize my body could not tackle all that my heart wanted to - and it began to fail me. Sending myself into stress overload and an overnight stay in the hospital was a HUGE reality check! So - I too began to apply to any and all Design jobs I could come in contact with- from the big guys (DC/Baltimore) to the smaller local contractors/companies- at this time knowing our shop was listed for sale (a complete bittersweet realization both Ashlee & I had come to). And like Joe- I too was met with the famous "Sorry we're not hiring but we'll keep your resume on hand". After plenty of those replies and realizing we just couldn't do this on our own we really began to seek out God! And it was He who led me to the thought in the middle of the night just a few months ago that- "maybe you're hitting walls b/c your family isn't suppose to be 'here' anymore"!? So I asked Joe his thought on that- and he replied he'd wondered that as well (which came as a shock from the man who said he'd Never leave the DC area!). So we did only what we knew we could... Pray Harder & begin to fast & expect God to answer -and He Always Does! It didn't take Joe too long to say - well what about Florida? I thought -well - it can't hurt to apply there- after all I am a big believer if God closes doors in one area He can do the same again in another if you aren't suppose to go in that direction either! So we both applied to various jobs and literally immediately we both began receiving positive replies & interviews began to line up. It was a whirl wind -again- to say the least. I think- actually i know- plenty of people thought we were crazy or wondered what in the world we were doing - but again- when God moves in a person's spirit -especially both spirits of a married couple- you obey. It doesn't make it easy - it's a huge trust walk as you know- but the proof is always in the fruit that later comes- ours...we're still knowing more will show in time (afterall fruit doesn't grow overnight =p) 

I do know though that no matter how hard the leaving has been - leaving behind my sister to wrap things up the past couple months as we take on new owners in just 2 days now (Praise God) was not an easy thing! The fear of letting people down can really overwhelm a person's soul- and I've found that to be me in at times quite detrimental ways. I'm sure many of you ladies out there know that feeling =( 

I told Ashlee just last week though that it's a bit ironic that she started things off for 2 months when we opened b/c I had my little guy Lucas only 3 days after opening (again not too ideal!)- so it was strangely fitting that 2 years later she's wrapping it up in bigger ways than I can. I give her a lot of credit  & Praise! The journey- as most journey's are- was wrapped in Blessings & tears - but ultimately - for God- lives were touched more then we can take credit for & for that... I think in my gut - God has smiled down at us. Leaving behind our family when we are taking their grandson's so far (who cares about the parents after little ones come right-lol) hasn't been easy on them either - and we get that in ways that we can for now- and maybe years from now in deeper ways if our children move far away. And of course leaving our behind our Blessed church family at ECC where we were involved the past few years. They were our lifeblood and saving Grace in more ways then any of them will ever know & our Thank You's could never touch the true meaning our hearts desire to express in all they have contributed to our family of 4. 

And now we're here- still not completely knowing of all the why's yet but still Trusting in God's amazing Grace and leadership throughout it all. I know He's Blessed us again in only ways He can- like providing me w/ a fantastic design job where I can design from home and run to appointments based around Joe's work schedule - Never having even had to look into placing the boys in summer childcare programs- Praise God it's been great for our family- a total juggle and lots of "Please let mommy work" comments but it's working -we're making it work! And Joe at Disney - well- it's Disney afterall- so for any of you who know my husband- there's really no other place -other than if he were full time in a church- that he'd rather be working - So again we Thank God He's working things out. And finding our new church home (at least for 'such a time as this') has been great- and literally right in our backyard! We never thought we'd get closer to church then the 7 miles we were from ECC -but now we can walk- so that's pretty close =p I must admit it'd different just 'attending' and not being apart of any type of leading- but it's needed!! God knew especially for me I needed to be brought to a place where I can rest. Well- resting for me yes - a mom w/ a 40 hour work week & just attending church a few times a week- i find that Restful =) I was talking w/ my dear friend Mary from home -telling her I feel like I should be doing something more (like scheming up a side job or something) and she said, "sommer you are Working 40 hours plus all the other mom duties"! I need to remind myself of that daily b/c i don't 'rest' well- I am one like so many who thinks I should always be Doing more- if there's any free time then i must fill it- and let me tell you that can be a Huge trick of the enemy to get a lot of us worn out and exhausted -mentally & physically to a point we are no good to the things and people that need us the most. Believe me I couldn't tell you how many times I have told my girlfriends and ladies who would come in the shop- we women need to realize being a Wife & Mom is Enough!! And then what do i do- get to FL where I am blessed by decrease in work load and try to think of ways to fill it up and 'be more helpful financially' to my family. Nope- nada- I have learned that lesson Way too many times and in harder ways then I ever want to relearn again- so Boundaries (a great book by the way) begin to be set - and Prayer over being Faithful to what God has called me to be faithful to- inspite of what others may always 'think' we should be doing. It's not easy as we all know - but God blesses our efforts and reconfirms our decisions within us as we daily walk them out w/ Him. 

Wow- this little update turned into a mini-novel! I do apologize- but as we all know I make hopeful promises of keeping this blog more up to date and then fail time and time again... But maybe now w/ more time....! lol! 

I thank you all for your love and thoughts and kind words of encouragement to us in our new journey here. We don't know exactly if we'll be calling FL our home 5 years from now but we do know - where He calls - we will Always seek & desire to Follow - no matter how hard...!

My love & Prayers for peace & blessings to each of you!

sommer

too smart to live like this?!?

Okay so HELLO 2013! I honestly can't believe we are already into the 2nd week of the New Year. I'm thankful for sure- i was among the many that was soo over 2012 in countless ways -lol. Lessons were learned no doubt - strength tested (as i often say "i don't really care to know just how strong i am") -sleep was deprived (which most know when you have a baby-unless your 1st is an Andrew;) -and Stress...boy oh boy was that felt! As so many of you- i was ready to ring in the New Year- still am. I found myself saying as the end of 2012 was approaching "Bring on 13' the odd numbers seem to work in my favor"-at least over the past 10yrs!

I landed a wonderful design job close to home w/ a boss who's a gem in 2003 -along w/ getting married & buying our 1st home - Had Andrew James in 2007 - Designed from the ground up & opened a Coffee Lounge in 2011 (w/ my sister) & had Lucas Paul 3 days later! Yep -those odd years rocked & we're still reaping the blessings! Now of course throughout those years & all the ones between our family made - saw & endured changes like the rest. We've grown and hopefully become a bit Smarter... Which brings me to today's post... the feeling of being "Too Smart to Live Like This".

You ever have those times where you say to yourself, "why did i do that... again"?!? i definitely have! Along w/ being a mom like so many of my wonderful gal pals - a wife & worker outside of the home- I've found myself caught up in what can be known as 'the vicious cycle of life'. You know -times when you find yourself feeding your family through the drive-thru -turning on another cartoon so your kiddos are occupied while you get a few more things done - putting everyone to bed way past what should've been an ideal bedtime - letting dishes pile up b/c after a long day you're just too tired to devote 10 minutes to the sink - swiping a credit card through a machine to grab something you know you can live w/out but desiring some kind of quick smile & satisfaction -not setting aside designated family time b/c your schedule already seems overwhelming - & again eating/drinking something that won't have you feeling so great abt your choices later on -Yep been there - done that & repeat it more times then I care to share -or to acknowledge. Which is why i think i've found myself thinking -Gosh I'm too smart to be living like this! After all -If I haven't experienced repercussions personally I've watched others or i've read a book, i know enough of the ol' cause & affect to know at times when i'm not making the best choice. And as plenty of authors in those books have said, it's not choosing right from wrong that's hard, it's choosing better vs best. 

So for this New Year i'm not trying to set some 'resolution' but I am trying to set myself and my family up for better future success. I'm going to choose to make the harder choices (even when others don't agree)-give up things that i thought i may not of been willing to (even if it makes me cry) -choose Health over convenience (knowing that it doesn't solve or prevent everything but it does make me feel better physically & mentally) -choose to sacrifice 'stuff' (be it work or play) & put my family first -and Love people (even those who can be so unlovable b/c hey we all can be that way from time to time). 

Life sure is short - years sure do fly by - so to get a bit sappier & a bit more cliche then I already have- I will choose to Smile more - Love & Seek out God more -hug my husband & kids more (even my sister;) & let opinions & others bother me less b/c afterall if you're allowing God to lead you in your decisions those others will be bound to see the greater Good it's bringing to your life & to those around you. 

and as my favorite verses confirm... "I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope & a future. Then you will call upon me & come and pray to me, & I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me w/ all your heart." Jeremiah 29:11-13

God loves us -each & everyone! He is our Help in time of need! So whatever it may be that you or I are looking for in this coming New Year I hope that you remember God has the answers - only He knows what lies ahead - so why not get to know the one who knows...!?! I know when i look back over my life - and my husband would agree - when we truly do "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God" all the other 'stuff' comes together - maybe not as we would have hoped initially -but when we stop and look around at all the little pcs that make up our lives personally -we see His hand covering & working "All things out for our good". it's just our job not to leave Him out.

okay so let me get started... living a bit smarter! =) 
& i'm hoping to blog a bit more about it - call it my accountability space ;p

Thanks Worth Giving!

Alas another Thanksgiving has arrived! Time to gather w/ family - friends - those we love -& Feast upon a lot of yummy food - drink & dessert!

Of course I have soo much to be Thankful for this year - too much to post on a Facebook status - too many deserving of sentiments - and too much procrastination in Posting a Thankful thought each day of the month that I decided today was all too appropriate & all too necessary =)

God has Blessed & Enriched my life in so many way this year- & I must admit at times I would have preferred not to be so 'enriched' -lol. However as we know - it's during those stretching of our strength - mental -physical & emotional times-that we come out stronger -more aware (hopefully) of what to do and Not do in the future & more aware of those around us who He's brought into our lives for 'such a time as this' to see us through! & for those people - today- and hopefully a pc of Every day- I Give Thanks!

My husband - of course like many of you ladies out there - I couldn't imagine my life without him! For 17 years now he's Blessed me in many ways & been a pc of my sanity! Through his humor- his goofiness (things that years ago would've made me embarrassed=p) have served as gentle reminders not to take this life too seriously! His love for our Lord - his prayers & positive attitude - they have and continue to see us through so much & I can't Thank God enough for allowing him to have 'faith the size of a mustard seed' all those years ago ;) Love You Joe! & Thank You for giving me the greatest gifts of all - our boys!

To Andrew & Lucas - Mommy Thanks God - not nearly enough b/c there's not enough hours in the day- for you both! Drew 'pc of my heart' - your compassion & love & deep thinking inspire me to be a bit better each day (or at least to try!) - your stubbornness & determination may drive me crazy but they remind me a bit of myself & how can I fault that -b/c I know God's placed that determination in you to carry out His Great Plans He has for You (Jer 29:11) To my sweet ball of energy & 'sunshine' Lucas - Mommy loves you bunches - I love your fearlessness -even though it has me on edge at times -it also has in me in prayer more=p which can never be a bad thing-lol. Your smile and laughter of course are contagious & God sent you into our lives at a Perfect time! Only the Lord knew that w/ the craziness of opening a business only 3 days earlier that You would help keep this momma grounded upon the Most important role I have - that of being a Mother (& a wife) first - and business owner last- Not the other way around! Your energy reminds me of the importance of taking care of myself so I can try and keep up w/ 2 growing boys- and even though I've failed numerous times this year - my prayer is to always try a bit more each day to be the Best Mom I can to you both - for you deserve Nothing less! <3

To my sister - business partner - the one who drives me most crazy -lol - but also who pushes me to not settle into my own groove & nature as much as I may desire- but to grow & to love w/ more compassion our differences that help balance us. Thank you for taking the plunge w/ me in opening up our 66Beans Coffee Lounge - or rather- God's Coffee Lounge. For w/out you by my side that little spot in Charlotte Hall would not be - and the Blessings that have been 'poured' out and upon us have and continue to be countless! We'll never know until we reach the other side the chain reaction of great things that have come & will continue to spread beyond our door- Thank You Ashlee! You are more than my little sister - more than a friend & I am Blessed to be apart of your life! *my prayer is that you begin to know just how great & wise you are* (w/out your head exploding that is -lol).

To my parents- Thank you Both for the firm foundation that you both instilled in us growing up. My life -I wouldn't want to even know how it'd be w/out either of you! Your love for us is always obvious & your belief in what God can do through us is a reflection upon the risks you've taken w/ us throughout our lives. & your sacrifices  - the countless sacrifices - Thank you will never be enough! I love you!

To my in-laws- not out-laws- I Thank God for each of you (4). Your love for us is in such a way as my own parents love - in that it's endless & sacrificial. I am Blessed to have you each in my life & Thank God for the gift of knowing I have family on Both sides who love me! Joe & I again could never say thank you enough!

To my 66 Beaners- our staff - those who are and who have been w/ us Behind the Counter of 66 Beans - I prayed for you - & I thank God that He heard my prayer almost 2 years ago now - that He'd Bless us w/ Great Staff who knew and felt our call beyond just opening another coffee shop! Each of you has enriched my life in more ways than you will ever know - you've caused me to smile - and thankfully never cry (lol) - to laugh & to grow a bit more each day I work with you. You help keep me sane - show me grace on those days when i'm a bit more emotional & lacking in sleep -lol. You've been trustworthy and honest (which is hard to find these days) & Each of you has been and continues to be a Blessing to all those who walk thru our door. For that and SO MUCH more I say Thanks!!

To our 66 Customers - many who are now like family- oh my how you've helped remind me that our place is more than 'just another coffee shop around the corner'! You remind me daily that we All have a story - we all have something to give to one another- and I can only hope that I can continue to give back to you more than just yummy food and drink - but to show you a pc of God's love & grace & compassion each day you stop by our place. Those of you who I refer to as our Characters - I love ya! You have made me laugh and smile and take in a refreshing that at times only God knew I needed! My life is forever changed by each of you & the sense of Community that I now have in an area i said i'd never live- is a Blessing! & of course -without you- wouldn't couldn't exist! =)

& To my girlfriends- we will never be able to visit as much as I like -never chat as much as I'd prefer - but my Thanks go out to you all and to God for Blessing me w/ such a wonderful inspiring loving group of women! There's too many to name and for that alone I Thank God for! You ladies Rock! You are strong - compassionate - loyal -trustworthy -fun - gorgeous inside and out & have helped me in more ways then you'll ever know! I LOVE YOU ladies - and thank you from the bottom of my heart for being a friend of mine!

And to everyone else taking the time to read this long giving of Thanks - you too must be someone important to me in some way -past or present! You have apparently touched my life & to you I say Thank You & Happy Thanksgiving!! May God continue to Bless each of you today and always & may you feel His love through the Good times and bad!

Now - turkey time! Eat- Drink & Be Merry My Friends!

season of CrAZinEsS...

 We look so normal... lol

*pic taken on short OC vaca*

So apparently once again i have slacked Greatly in keeping up w/ the ol' blog & once again i was reminded =p it's nice to know some actually do read these little blurbs about my *our* life & care to remind me they are waiting to hear more. so i chose the pic above b/c i just love my boys & it's the most recent family shot i believe we have - at least one that wasn't taken from my phone.  & it reminds me we do get to squeeze in moments of ToGetHerNess here and there *like celebrating Lucas turning 1 or Drew turing 5 this summer/fall ...even though the pic below describes things a bit clearer

*not my car - or my stuff*

just a fun pic of chaos that reminds me of my *our* life lately - and i chose this shot specifically b/c *i am* i feel like i'm living out of my car lately! we are running the roads a LOT these days - like so many i know but i think many of you must do it more graciously than i b/c i DO NOT ENJOY IT one bit =o

from taking andrew to school - running back and forth to 66Beans - to my parents or mtg spots along the road to drop off lucas or pick him up - or home to run in & out or let luke nap for a bit before heading back out the door - swapping kids with joe while i close the shop - picking andrew up from school - trying to squeeze in a quick trip to the park or library before passing them off to their dad to close up the shop again or take both home alone b/c he's working his part-time job or trying to get to church on time - trying to make it back on Wed. nights b/c we DO LOVE our ECC fam - try to fit in the family needs of grocery shopping - laundry -cleaning or at least ThInKing about the family needs of grocery shopping - laundry & cleaning - and then -WASH - DRY -REPEAT (maybe that's why i got mono in the spring-lol) -oh yeah and TRY to find an hour or two where joe and i can remember we are a couple and we do need to hang out together! lol. yeah - that about brings you up-to-date a bit - in a very brief compressed way.

this SeAsOn though i try and remind myself is JuSt ThAt - a season - and it too shall PASS - either that or I will push and shove *kick & scream* my way through until it does b/c i am eager to get on the other side *w/out a breakdown*- you know -that *grass is always greener* side =p seriously though a needed balance is what i am hard at work on along with the required drastic life changes that are needed to acquire such balance. but i'm a girl who BeLiEvEs and i do know that God is working all things out for His Good which ultimately is My Good as well *again i'm reminding myself of that as i write* & He has Always seen us through & greatly Blessed us w/ loving friends & family who help in more ways then i will ever be able to Thank Them *more ways then i wish were needed at times! *but one day i know we'll be on the GiViNg SiDe*

so here we are - well on our way into fall which no doubt will bring on winter quicker than those *like me who prefer warmer climates* may like but honestly this year - this winter - i'm looking forward - b/c w/ it i BeLiEvE is coming Great Change for our family dynamic - one which will allow me to try and keep this ol' blog more up to date - allow a bit more time for treasured family time -creative expression - designing & raising my boys w/ a more calm spirit b/c i am making the time to Breathe Deeper - soak up Their Youth *b/c time flies and they are growing too fast* and be the wife that my husband needs & deserves - while SlowInG down & EnjoyInG all that God has Blessed me with *instead of just looking back w/ fondness of past fleeting moments* i Will Be Choosing to enjoy a new and blessed season & i hope you all will be as well...

*love*

Mother's Day...a Different Kinda Meltdown!

Blessed to Celebrate another Mother's Day X2!

My Heart Melts...

As any mom knows...there is NO greater love then the love you have for your child/children! It's this crazy "i'm going to eat you up" kinda love - and i never even really got that saying until i laid eyes on Andrew's chubby little cheeks when he was born. It's just craziness! And then add another child to the mix and watch the love between the two of them... a whole other level of crazy!

I don't know how most other moms feel -never asked any really- but i know when Lucas came there has not been a day that's passed where I don't look at him in utter surprise and amazement that I now have two- two Boys! With Andrew I felt deep within my gut for years before I became pregnant that God would one day be blessing us with a son - I had NO DOUBT - but with Lucas - I have to tell ya - God surprised me! He blessed me with an extra gift and I will Never be able to justly thank Him enough =)

My little Light - My Sunshine

This little man is my reminder that God can just keep on giving even when we never feel - or honestly are - deserving. A couple yrs prior to becoming pregnant w/ Lucas we were actually "trying" to add to our lil family - but - like many - nothing happened. It was a long time later - after the "trying" ended and the "let's just see what happens one day" turned into the "well maybe we'll adopt sooner than we thought" that AhHa- We're Pregnant day arrived! and the mind... my my it's definitely as God's Word says - Powerful! I think it's because I began to take on a "mindset" that another baby in the womb just wasn't going to be for me - that from that blessed day of discovery that I was wrong -was day One of the daily "Surprise" i feel each time I look into his Big Blue/Gray Eyes =) 

And honestly until I had my boys I never quite got it - I never truly could grasp Exactly what true & total unconditional love was/is all about!?! I mean YES i love my husband as you all do yours - they drive us crazy at times -but Yes the love remains - but the love of a mom - it's just plain different! I mean my boys -really more Andrew of course b/c he's at the 'boy thinking he's a man' stage of 4yrs-lol- he definitely can drive me nutty and frustrate me at times -but just give me a second - or not even that much if he cracks a smile- & I'm broke - my heart melts- and the frustration passes -there's no feeling of 'i'm not going to talk to you the rest of the day' like you might feel with your spouse - there's just that 'awe come give me a hug and it's all forgotten' kinda thing. Honestly it's great... Honestly it's a reminder that's how I should love All the time - no matter who - after all - that's how God loves me/you - so how could I possibly feel right to love anyone else any different. My boys remind me of that everyday! Every day My Heart Melts when I look at them - and every day they serve to remind me of God's Love for me when I don't feel deserving (after all I'm truly never 'deserving') and reminds me of how I am called to Love others - Unconditionally. 

So thanks Lord - for Blessing my life with 2 Fabulously Wonderful Daily reminders of Your Love! And Thank You for calling me to be their Mom- may I love them as You love them - may I listen to them as You listen to me - may I never fail them enough to leave a scar - & may a day Never pass when they don't know and feel Loved by their mom!

God Bless Each & Every MOM out there....w/ Strength that passes all understanding - Love that daily fills their home & Laughter that carries them through to the other side of any trial thrown their way!

*my-being so house bound the past several wks has def. brought out a more sentimental side of me-lol*

Hope You Enjoyed EVERY Minute of Your Mother's Day!

What Year 2011 was....

My oh my it's been too long since i caught up w/ my ol' blog -you know -the one i promised to keep up-to-date! =0

2011 was a year of Growth for our family in more ways than one.

As many know we were walking thru the process of opening our coffee lounge Sixty-Six Beans in Southern MD early last year on thru the summertime ....I am happy to now say we've been up and running since August 15th! What a blessing & a stress (ol' blood sweat & tears) all wrapped in one -lol. It's one of those blessings in life where you are glad that God didn't reveal the Big picture from the beginning to overwhelm you enough to say -'open-manage & run a coffee shop-Nah- I don't think so'. lol My sister Ashlee & I are definitely glad we did though & have been blessed so greatly by 66Beans- our employees & the community. If you ask me my favorite part of owning such a business I wouldn't hesitate to say it's meeting everyone who walks thru our door! Our customers are a blessing -not just financially of course =) but by opening up their lives to us little by little (or should I say cup by cup=). It brings a smile to our face to say we have what this industry refers to as 'regulars' -the ones who frequent our shop several times a week (if not each day)- for they are the ones who are becoming apart of our 66Beans family and who are spreading great word for us (as we found out quickly-Marketing is almost Everything).  For more info on our hot-spot please visit our site (b/c honestly I could talk for a quite a while) www.66beans.com

In other areas of Growth- 2011 brought us a new addition- our 2nd son Lucas Paul Clark -born just 3 days after opening 66Beans on Thursday August 18th. Talk about timing right, lol. (i'll have to write a little 'birth story' soon) As they say though- God's never early or late- He's right on time! We often question that saying don't we? By no means would I have arranged it that way but looking back -and in more years to come- I think we'll realize even more-so how we Grew thru that time (my sister and I- her being left to really manage a new business & me being left to begin the juggle as a mom of 2 and doing business work via the computer (not my specialty-more Ashlee's area of expertise). So you could say I/We were being stretched- but none-the-less we made it thru =) & Lucas is, as I call him, my Sunshine! He's a sweet little boy who's smile lights up his whole face -and the faces looking back at him. He's a pudgy little butterball (Not when he 1st arrived to my surprise- I was told he'd be an 8-lber- but he arrived at 6lbs, 7oz) -but now I am happy to report my baby boy is a chunky happy lil monkey who's looking more like his big brother Andrew all the time =)  Now... if only he'd sleep thru the night....!

& Speaking of Drew- he turned the big 4 this year and boy oh boy is he 'coming into his own'-lol. I love him to pieces (up to the sky & back is what I often tell him- only to have him tell me recently-'well mom I love you up to Jesus and back, so i beat you!lol) He keeps me on my toes for sure and is definitely one PROUD and Happy big brother! I often say he loves lucas a bit too much - but how could he really?! He started daycare in july just a couple days a week and does enjoy it. After a bit of a struggle getting him to go after having Lucas (b/c he realized lucas was going to Gran's without him) he's getting better each day. And of course I know the routine (having worked in a daycare for a number of years -years & years ago=) it def did break my heart those several mornings when he definitely did NOT want to stay. And my little imaginative story teller would often come up with hysterical reasons as to why he couldn't go- like "mom-I have to work today or my boss will fire me" -me "drew where do you work" Drew- "virginia"! lol. Kids a trip i tell ya! =)

& I must not forget how 2011 grew us Spiritually. We've been greatly blessed to be apart of a wonderful new church family -ECC -Encounter Christian Center- right near (thru the parking lot actually) of 66Beans. Joe and I have been encouraged - uplifted & blessed by the Ministers & again- all who enter the door. I never realized I could feel 'at home' so quickly in a church w/ over 300 people. And talk about amazing multi-cultural environment in Southern MD- something my hearts desired in a church but honestly other than a desire the Lord was aware of - I never thought much more of it b/c I know the 'facts' that Sundays are a time when most attend churches w/ others 'just alike'. So it's a wonderful refreshing - one in which has me often looking around during worship/service thinking -"Wow this is what heaven will look like one day"! God is good!

Okay - must wrap it up for now -hope that little briefing caught you up a bit - and I hope that this is just a start to keeping things more up-to-date!

I pray God showers His Blessings Upon us All this new Year! 

Happy 2012!

catching up...

the time has finally come...

we are UNDER CONSTRUCTION!

with the year ticking by i must admit our coffee house dream was starting slowing to become just that "a dream". however as you can see... God has blessed us with our dream becoming a Reality! now the Real Hard Work begins! we are loving it... even thru the dog days of construction, praying subs show up on time, estimates stay true to their first quote, and we become more equipped each day to fulfill this vision Our Best way possible! it's definitely easy to get overwhelmed if we allow ourselves to be... but really when we focus on the Whole Idea, the Purpose of why this all began, we then realize that with God everything will continue to fall into place (& in His timing, not our own). so with a goal 'soft opening' in mind we press on to the mark and SOOO look forward to serving up a cup (of yummy fabulous organic coffee drinks) to our locals and beyond!

looking forward to posting After pics

i'm even more looking forward to filling this space with new flooring, equipment, appliances, paint, furniture, artwork, and PEOPLE! can't wait until our first lil' open mic nite debut! yes... Good Times are ahead!!! and for all the doubters...you know who you are (lol)... we do realize this spot will become a second home to us and you know what, i'm loving that idea too! confirmation came last weekend when we visited with our roaster and Great coffee supplier in PA called Square One (check them out when your in Lancaster). we went to train again and spend time with them soaking up the environment and the behind-the-scenes business and as before... loved every minute! with minimal (i'm talking 3 hours sleep If that thanks the crazy loud people in the hotel room across the hall) we found ourselves able to hang in all day and enjoy every minute (no matter how heavy our eyelids became). thats how i know my 'dream' is also my purpose and passion. when you know that no matter how much your body is ready to give up you're still loving what you're doing/experiencing. i hope each of you too is able to enjoy your work - spite the inevitable hard days, the lowest of the low days, you still feel that passion and love for your work and for how it's benefitting those around you! now for balancing work and family....

my little guy becomes my side-kick co-contractor! lol

andrew and i have probably hit every library in the calvert - st mary's area. he happily (most days) goes along for the ride, knowing that after or during the gaps between meetings, coffee house stops, and plenty of computer time & phone calls, we'll take a break somewhere fun for him. so that's how it works for us... for now. you just do your best with what time you have and try and make the most of it Each day! one things for sure... my little guy will Always know he's loved and important, even when we're making him clean dishes @ 66Beans! lol.

okay... back to work. hope you enjoyed the condensed wordy version of a little catch up on our space! stay tuned for further updates =)

oh and i must say again... THANK you for all of the prayers, love, encouragement and support throughout this process... it's kept us going even during the 'dry' times! =)

blessed & thankful!!!

i had to take a sec and blog about how Blessed & Thankful i am! & i hope so many of you (ALL of you) feel the same - in your own personal way because yoU deserve nothing less!

some our Immersed gp @ECC (college&career)

the group of crazy Fabulous faces you see above are some of those in our weekly Immersed gp at our church. my husband & i have been Blessed to be called to lead such a wonderful group of young adults and they inspired me tonight - as many of them wouldn't know- to write this quick blog on Blessings and Thankfulness! you see so often we get so caught up in the typical run-around that we call our day. whether it be leaving home early to head off to work- or waking before dawn to pack lunches for our kids in school while cooking breakfast for our husbands and preparing our day w/ our toddler and list full of errands- it gets endless i know! my point- during all of that- the chaos that is our day- sometimes we forget- or don't make the time- to stop and just breathe and remember how Blessed we are & to say Thank You to God for all that He's given to us- and all that's to come! the beautiful faces above- they reminded me tonight to be Thankful! amongst running around filling my day & checking off my 'to-do's' i honestly felt like crashing on the couch tonight - not packing up my little man again (after having just gotten home) to head out the door- but i was so Glad that i did! not only do i Thank God for calling us to reach out to Young Adults in our area- He thanks us for our responding to that call by Blessing us Immensely with a Fabulous Inspiring gp who challenge us - make us laugh - encourage us- Bless us & Inspire us more than they'll ever truly know! 

some other Thankful Blessings of mine...

and this little face- oh how this momma LOVES that little guy!

kitchen design- must admit i LOVE those After Shots!

our Coffee Lounge- COMING SOON! YEY!!

for me personally- it's easy to get caught up in the 'oh my gosh i have so much going on how can i tackle it all' but you see- that's when i overwhelm myself with my laundry list of 'stuff' not focusing on the fact that all that 'stuff' has been used by God to Bless me in Incredible ways! being a mom- of course a blessing- toughest job on earth as many of you know-but the rewards and blessings are Endless! designing professionally for the past 8 years- total blessing! sure it could be stressful at times depending upon the client, but still- I'm totally Thankful that God Blessed me with a fabulous outlet to use my creative ability in the work force and even more blessed to work for a Boss & alongside others who taught me so much- and who have really been a JOY to work with! and 66beans... the calling to open a coffee lounge in our area has been something my sister & i have desired to see come to fruition for quite a while -and it looks like nows that time! when my plate seems stacked already- baby2 on the way as well- it's hard to imagine at times opening a business- HOWEVER when you're working at something God's calling you to do- He makes a way- He has things under control- and my Rest is found in Him after a long day full of checked off 'to-do's'! and honestly i'm So glad to know i Don't have to have it 'all figured out' -i just need to know the One who does & be Thankful for that!

i can only hope that so many of you (like ALL) are able to say the same- you're doing what you're 'called' to do- what you've been Designed to do- what you're talented and gifted in doing! because it's then- even when you feel you've had all you can take during one particular day- that you can sit down at the end of the night and feel fulfilled! fulfilled in knowing that you used your gifts to Bless others - be it your children- your co-workers- your spouse- your clients/customers- whoever- wherever- you know that what you did that day was Exactly what you were suppose to do- what you were called to do. and whether or not you feel you did your best- or you were running on empty and tried anyway- Pat yourself on the back! we all have better days than others - lousy days we can't take back- but something else we have... is Tomorrow! so live it- enjoy it- and DO what yoU are Designed to do! after all- there is Only one yoU- so No one else can fill your shoes! 

so here's to putting on your best pair tomorrow and Shining in a way that only You can!