Lindsee’s 2012 Summer Highlights

Today is the last official day of summer for Houston. Well, the last summer weekday. Come Monday morning, all manner of children with their crisp, new school clothes and fancy haircuts will either hop on a big yellow bus, sit in a carpool line, or brave the daunting humidity and walk to school for their very first day. I know kiddos who get to experience their first day of kindergarten, and other ones who get to experience their first day of their very last year of school as they’re the big, bad seniors.

All of that to say, although the heat is screaming otherwise, according to our calendar, summer is over.

So, I thought it was only appropriate to share my 2012 summer highlights. Please note, however, that I spent the majority of my days in Houston with minimal traveling and fun experiences, so please lower your expectations. What you won’t be seeing is fancy trips to Hawaii or days traveling NYC. But it is what it is.

In no particular order, here are my top 12 highlights of the great summer of 2012.

1. The Nehemiah Bible study. Listen, I am taking my sweet time, meaning, I am STILL working on it, just keeping it real. But, that doesn’t mean I haven’t loved it. And I know for a fact you all loved it too, so at least we have that in common. Grin.

2. Don’t think I wouldn’t talk about Girls Bible study. I loved the 10 weeks I got to spend with these sweet girls studying and pouring over So Long, Insecurity. The last night we went out in style with some fun giveaways, a few words of wisdom from our own Beth, and most importantly, dinner from Pappasito’s. Go big or go home has always been my motto. If I had to pick one thing, I’d say these girls were THE highlight of my summer.

I couldn’t say that without sharing this gem. When you get to see changes you’ve been praying for in girls, it brings much joy to your heart. So imagine how thrilled I was when one of my leaders asked if one of her girls could bring her guitar to one of our meetings. Of course I said yes, and she proceeded to tell me that one of her insecurities was playing her guitar in front of people, so she wanted to bring it one night and play it for her small group. Y’all, that’s a big deal. I was thrilled when she got their a little early that night because it was just me and her in the room, so I asked her to play a little bit for me and she not only played, but nailed it. I was so proud! Can you say precious? The Lord was so sweet to her.

3. Beth’s birthday cake. Yes, it was a highlight. It was that good. Don’t judge.

While we’re talking about her cake, here is a picture of Amanda, Beth and Melissa at Beth’s LPM birthday party!

4. My pool. Well, this is actually my apartment pool, but as you can see, it’s pretty empty, so I’ve claimed it as my own. I would be here every day if I could, but alas, my job keeps me pretty busy, so I got out on the weekends as often as I can. This screams relaxation to me!

5. Austin Living Proof Live. What a great weekend with a great Word that I’m still gleaming from. And it also may or may not have been the only place I traveled all summer.

6. Label me materialistic (again, just keeping it real), but you can imagine my sheer joy when H&M, the clothing store, opened up at Willowbrook Mall here in Houston. Score! H&M is a really cute, cheap store that is very similar to Forever Β Twenty-One, but dare I say, cheaper. My coworker and I may or may not have visited the day after it opened on our lunch break. I’m telling you, I don’t get out much.

7. Okay, I may have fibbed just a little. One weekend I went away for one night with some girlfriends to a quaint little farmhouse in the country. We enjoyed ourselves so much while we laughed, ate, talked and even did some fun extra-curricular activities. Such as riding on a Gator to tour the land and kayaking. (See below.)

Exhibit A: Athleticism at its finest. Kayaking. Because this was during this summer’s Olympics, I was feeling really inspired. You can catch me kayaking in Rio during the 2016 games.

8. Catching up with my best friends. You know those friends you’ve had since the womb? These are those friends. We’re all in different seasons and live miles away from each other, but when we get together it’s like nothing has ever changed. Highlight? You bet it was. A really sweet one.

9. I took a day off work to go hang out with our students from church in Galveston one day. Since BCF is such a baby church (we’re turning one soon!), this was a really special week for them because it was their very first summer camp. They’ll never forget it! It was a sweet change of scenery for a day and it was exciting to be with them outside of church, even if just for a short time.

Galveston, oh Galveston. We take what we can get here in Texas as far as beaches are concerned.

10. My very best friend had her very first baby. A baby girl. Ellie is my new obsession and rightfully so, she’s a living doll. I was blessed to get to be there on her birthday and I’ll never forget it. This and Bible study tie for my number one highlight. It’s amazing to me how much you can love something when it’s not even yours. That’s how I feel about her.

11. Did we ever tell y’all that a tree right outside of our office got hit by lightning one day? It was the most bizarre thing I’ve ever seen happen right before my eyes. Not to mention the sound like a bomb going off. Beth and I happened to both witness it and I fear we’re both still scarred from it. However, we’re all convinced the Lord put the tree there so it wouldn’t hit the building.

Since the tree took the hit, we unfortunately, lost it. So as to not cause any more damage, we had it removed yesterday. To say we were all enthralled by the process is an understatement. So much so, that I documented the entire event. So intriguing.

12. Lastly, and certainly not least, Bayou City Nights, our church’s first VBS. To serve together as a church body and watch everyone come together and do the thing was a beautiful gift. There is so much more I could say about this, but I’ll just leave you with this little sneak into a few of our evenings together, a collage if you will. That, right there, is some joy, my friends.

I happen to have the cutest team. Go green or go home was my motto! Skipping, singing, dancing, laughing and making crafts with these little ones was a complete joy.

 

So, now that I’ve rambled on about the great summer of 2012, I’d love for you to share a highlight from your summer. I guarantee you girls have some pretty sweet stories. Spill them!

We really do love y’all so much.

Happy Friday, y’all. And happy back to school!

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  1. 1
    Kristie says:

    The highlight of my summer was DEFINITELY my positive pregnancy test! πŸ™‚ Baby Wooten #3 is expected to arrive in late March. So thankful to God for this gift!

    • 1.1
      Lindsee says:

      Congratulations, Kristie! That is SO exciting! Yes, we’re thankful for that gift as well. Blessings!

  2. 2
    Melissa says:

    Your summer looked super FUN! So glad God is using you and that you’re allowing Him to. :)Blessings!!

  3. 3
    ForeverHis says:

    Oh Lindsee, what a wonderful post! You look like you had a fun, full summer! I live in OK so I understand about the temps. Waiting patiently for autumn.

    I am a grandma and decided to spend time with each. So I had two weeks baking cupcakes and all manner of goodies with my senior granddaughter. She wants to be a pastry chef so we were practicing. Then we traded her for her sister and a week in Austin, seeing sights and doing crafts. Then on to San Antonio with the two youngest ones for Sea World (only day outside!), indoor play gyms and movies. Some hotel pool swimming with all.

    All in all a really nice summer!

    • 3.1
      Lindsee says:

      What a fun grandma you are! Sounds like so much fun. I’m not sure I love any place more than I love Sea World. Shamu stole my heart years ago. Grin.

  4. 4
    Sandy Bowers says:

    Wow Lindsee! What an exciting summer you’ve had. We too are preparing for school to start on Monday. This would include my son’s first day of his last year of high school, and my daughter’s first day of tenth grade! And I have to go back too. As a Kindergarten Aide, I am blessed to have my summers off, so it’s back to school for me. My summer was a continuation of trying to get settled into my new house. When you moved from a 5 bedroom, two story with a basement parsonage…..to a 3 bedroom ranch, with no basement, it just takes forever to get things in order. But it’s our first home that we own after 30 years in ministry! Anyway, Nehemiah was probably the highlight of my summer! I loved being in the Word with my Siestas….and Kelly Minter is awesome! Also enjoyed a local production of “Children of Eden” which was so awesome! No vacations for me this year. Was hoping to get to an LPL this summer, but there were none close to me….the closest was/is 8 hours away. Will be doing the Simulcast though, so looking forward to that! Thanks for the update Lindsee. I’ve been enjoying your tweets too! Sending hugs and love your way Siesta!

  5. 5
    Kathy Wilshire says:

    I had a great summer! I’m a school nurse, so I’m off all summer, which is AWESOME! I started off with a trip to Cozumel with my 3 best girlfriends to celebrate our 50th birthdays. One I’ve known since 4th grade the others since Jr High. To be honest Nancy isn’t 50 yet, she was a grade behind us, but we told her she had to be 50 for this trip! Michele & I went scuba diving 3 mornings while Kari & Nancy slept in, read, shopped & vegged by the pool. Then we would all do more of the same in the afternoons. It was sweet, relaxing time for all of us.
    Then the last week of June I went to Sourh Padre Island with my hubby for his birthday. I worked extra shifts at the crisis pregnancy center where I volunteer in between trips. One weekend in July we spent with our oldest son & daughter-in-law in OKC & went to the lake in their boat for the first time.
    I also have half- season tickets to Texas Rangers games, which I love, so went to games a lot. Then the first full week of August went to Boston with hubby & twin college daughters to watch the Rangers play the Red Sox & sight-seeing.
    I also managed to do the Nehemiah study with 2 friends from church in between all that! (well, to be honest I’m not quite finished either!).
    This is probably way more than you wanted to know, but it was all special & fun & truly a blessing, so I couldn’t leave anything out!
    Here’s praying for a good school year!
    Kathy W
    This is probably way more than you wanted to know, but it was a g

    • 5.1
      Lindsee says:

      From Cozumel to South Padre. Girl, there’s a big difference! Sounds like you had a really sweet summer. Praying for a good school year for you as well!

    • 5.2
      Sandy Bowers says:

      Whew Kathy! I’m tired just reading your post. Maybe this is one of those years where you have to go back to work to get some rest! LOL, I know that’s not true…I work at an elementary school. Have a great year!

  6. 6
    katie says:

    The highlight of my summer was leading my 2 precious tweens through Passport to Purity. It was a BLESSING! If you have kids in middle school, go buy this set at family life today ASAP. You won’t regret it. What a great time learning and teaching God’s word to my kids. I will treasure the time in my heart. God is so good!

  7. 7

    I really enjoyed this post. Fabulous photos! Those are some great summer highlights! Thanks for sharing!

  8. 8
    Sabrina says:

    The highlight of my summer was welcoming home my sweet granddaughter from an orphanage in Bulgaria. You can read her story here http://www.lovesransom.blogspot.com/ and here http://katie-memorablemoments.blogspot.com/

  9. 9
    Brittany says:

    Lindsee. Your Instagram skills never cease to amaze me. Well done, friend! If I could “favorite” things on the blog, I’d grab Corey and we’d do it on every picture! πŸ˜‰
    Love your recap. Cracking up that you posted that ridiculous picture of me, DP and Natalie. It’s been a good summer indeed!

  10. 10
    lynda rickey says:

    Lindsee, I love the fact that we have such an amazing savior who delights in giving us an abundant life, full of so many great memories. Loved them! Love you!

  11. 11
    Donna says:

    Lindsee, Are you a scrapbook person. Your pictures looked like you may be. I am, that’s what I’ve been doing for the past month for a dear lady who’s been sick but wanted an album of her first Granddaughter. It’s been fun to do. The other hight light of my summer was attending my Nephew’s wedding. It was a 2nd one for them both after losing there spouses over the past 10 or so years. The service was so precious. It’s been a long long time since I’ve seen a couple so in love. The family were the only ones at the service and they included us all to show they were thankful for all our love and support in all their trials and joys. I’ll remember it for a long time.

  12. 12
    Delores Orcutt says:

    Lindsee, thanks for sharing. Like you, I don’t get out much. This summer, our family finally decided to act on our long held desire to sell our tiny home and buy a bigger one. After all, I bought it when I was single and now my husband and I have 3 kids, all in a 2 bedroom 1 bathroom house. Well two lovely families have offered to house us during this transition time (our house still isn’t on the market yet and so we have to hold off on the house buying part). Well that had been a blessing in and of itself but I’d have to say my highlight was during a short trip to Ocean Shores with one of those families. That Tuesday morning, I took a walk on the beach, not too early. I found 2 sand dollars and my daughter found one. Something in me wanted a sand dollar for each member of the family and I just asked God to give me two more sand dollars. By this time it was later in the morning and there were more people around. The sand dollars I found were broken or incomplete. I decided to walk in the opposite direction for a bit until I had to get the kids out to get ready for the return trip. Just when I got out as far as I knew I would walk to get back in time, He gave me my two sand dollars :). I just thanked God for His kindness and generosity and love towards me. The best part was on the walk back, He showed me all manner of heart shaped rocks and shells as a tangible reminder of my new favorite verse: Psalm 143:8 Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I lift up my soul.
    He’s been so good to me! Praise His name!
    Delores in WA

  13. 13
    Kelly S says:

    Lindsee, I loved reading about your summer! Thanks for sharing!
    We had several highlights this summer:
    1. New puppy, Sadie (Catahoula Hound)
    2. We traded campers … we love to camp and were able to use it several times.

    3. LPL KNOXVILLE! It was so fun to experience that with my oldest daughter and our cousin, Ashley. This was Ashley’s first LPL and she loved it! The only thing missing was you!

    Thank you, Lindsee, and I hope you have a wonderful fall season πŸ™‚

    • 13.1
      Lindsee says:

      Kelly, I would have loved to have been at LPL. We heard such wonderful things about it! However, I LOVE that your girl got to experience it with you. So sweet.

  14. 14
    Cathy S. says:

    My highlight was the opportunity to be with all three of my boys. We went to Mississippi to see our oldest son who works there now and it was fun to see him living life as an adult. We had a day trip with youngest son and his fiancΓ©e to go tubing at the Rainbow River and we enjoyed having a glimpse of what their lives will be like after the wedding next winter (nothing tells on your relationship like a tubing trip!). Then, I went to Guatemala to see my son of the heart who lives in a Malnutrician Center and got to hear him talk and know he is almost ready for school. As trying as being a mom has been sometimes, this summer was God’s time to show me that they are going to be all right and they are all in the palm of His Hand.

    • 14.1
      Cathy S. says:

      PS Lindsee, thanks for sharing your summer with us. Even though you didn’t get to go anywhere travel wise, sounds like God took you to great heights.

  15. 15

    Wow Lindsee, it sounds like you had a great summer!
    I am a bit of a home body. I love watching the birds in my backyard. The hawk was probably the biggest surprise!
    Visits with grandkids are always fun! And just had a visit with my son from Illinois! My husband and I took a short trip to a wildlife sanctuary and saw a Reddish Egret running on long stick legs catching fish. That was such a funny sight! We love summer in Florida!

  16. 16

    The summer was full of firsts, since we recently moved to Colorado Springs. The Waldo Canyon fire was an incredible thing to experience, but seeing the hand of God move through this city, and getting to go hear Beth in the midst of it, was definitely a highlight. God is up to something in Colorado, and I look forward to being a part of it.

  17. 17
    Roxanne Worsham says:

    Lindsee,

    Looked as if you had an amazing summer all in all! A great summer of service for sure!!
    My summer started on such a bum note. I had shoulder surgery to repair a completely torn rotator cuff. I was even run over by a car in high school and dragged 24 ft down Hammerly underneath the car and that didn’t even compare to the pain of my surgery recovery. IT. WAS. HORRIBLE!! I look back now and see the sweet times I shared with the Lord – just Him and me – during the long, sleepless nights when I would just cry. I knew He was there holding me and sustaining me.
    I finally got to get out and about at the end of July and into August. Colorado was where we landed to enjoy the cool and the beauty of the mountains. I shared so many precious moments there with my husband and son and some very sweet times with the Lord. The words He spoke over me during my crying, painful nights were now becoming revelation and I was absolutely in awe! This time I was crying for different reasons! πŸ˜‰
    I begin a new school year on Monday. My one and only son started his senior year at Second Baptist August 15. He has been going there since he was 4. I can’t believe all the changes that are coming down the pipe for our family this next year. I am praying now for the strength. He hasn’t even left for college yet and I miss him already. πŸ™ Being a mom is the greatest joy I have ever known. I sure am glad I not only love my husband, but I really like him! We are going to be spending alot more time together! πŸ˜‰

    Blessings to you, Beautiful Girl!
    xxoxo

    • 17.1
      Lindsee says:

      Roxanne, we’re so glad your surgery went well. And Colorado is a wonderful place to get away to! Blessings right back to you!

  18. 18
    Shelly Elston says:

    Lindsee,

    I loved reading about your summer highlights. Sounds like you had a full and rewarding season. Your pictures tell the story of a happy life. You are truly blessed. I pray God continues to surround you with lovely people that you can share your JOY with and that He blesses your amazing attitude.

    Our summer was quiet. We did some house projects and went to a week of Family Camp. We’ll end summer with a quick trip to Cabo San Lucas before school begins here the beginning of September.

    I always love reading about what’s happening with you. Thank you for your sweet countenance and constant enciuragement on here. Love to you! Here’s to a great Fall!

  19. 19
    Danielle says:

    We started the summer with a week in the mountains. (Husband, 4 kids, the dog, and myself!) We stayed at a house that belongs to a co-worker. After a very long year of trials, this was respite beyond what you can imagine, and a HUGE gift!

    Oh yes, and I was part of a small group bible study that studied Beth’s James!! What a gift!!

  20. 20
    Dionna says:

    Well, we went on a 3 week road trip across the U.S. as a family. Went through Dallas, Austin, Phoenix, Georgia, New York, DC and on up the East Coast to Niagara Falls then back to Idaho. It was car-intensive!

    It was our 3rd road trip across the U.S. and as much as I adore them, some relaxing days at home during the summer also sound inviting. πŸ™‚

  21. 21
    Janice says:

    LPL Charleston! Convinced my mom to go at 2pm yesterday, had my best friend’s beautiful voice singing in my ears, took pictures with Georgia Jan and heard my favorite Bible teacher! I love learning more about the Word! So glad everyone came to my hometown. I’ve seen Beth Moore 10 times out of my state and finally this weekend had her not only in my state but my city!

  22. 22
    Carol Hulin says:

    Hey Lindsee….
    I’m feeling left out!!!
    I work in the hotel industry and summer is our busy time, so I haven’t had a lot of time off. Will be taking time in September.
    Glad you had a great summer. You are truly blessed

  23. 23
    Cindy says:

    Lindsee, your summer looked liked a packed summer with lots of wonderful activity.
    This summer, my family joined our church at Camp Galilee in Tennessee, we hosted day camp for 5 – 8 year olds. It was the greatest experience to serve. God was at work, and we got to be part of it, it was such a blessing. That was my summer highlight!
    Keep up the great work at LPM.
    Love you guys.
    Cindy

  24. 24
    Patti Hayes says:

    August 14, 2012 bid a tender welcome to our beautiful granddaughter, Sarah Maggie Hayes. Much to the delight of her waiting loved ones, Sarah arrived weighing in at 8lbs. & 2.25 ounces and measuring 20.25 inches with deep blue eyes and dark wavy locks surrounding her delicate, sweet little face. It has been such a delight to watch our firstborn with his firstborn.

    In just a few days, August 29th,our firstborn grandchild, Nathanael will celebrate his first birthday. He has brought such joy to our lives. There is nothing like being a grandmother.

  25. 25
    Joan says:

    Hi Lindsee, Even though we’ve never met in person, I really think your great and admire you from what I read of yours on the blog. It is so great to see a young woman who is godly and mature in the faith! You glorify our Heavenly Father! My summer was great and thank God for it. Trip to AZ to visit friend and went to excellent conference for work there, biking weekly on local bike trail,best of all weekly Bible story and craft that points my grandkids to the Lord while caring for them one day each week.

  26. 26
    Laurie Robinson says:

    Lindsee,
    I love your highlights list! I share 2 of them with you; the Nehemiah study and LPL Austin, I love that my summer was not a “break” from studying and learning more about my God. “The JOY of the LORD is my strength” Neh 8:10
    I am in the middle of the best days of my summer right now because my bestie, Mary Lynn, is visiting from California. I moved to Texas 6 years ago, and this is the first time she has been able to visit~ and she came without kids! (we have 6 between us) We have enjoyed our time shopping, laughing and talking, and although I’m sad to have to send her home, I am blessed to have a forever friend like her!
    Our little group of Siestas, TNLG, is looking forward to starting our new study, Unglued by Lysa TerKeurst in 2 weeks.
    Would you please pray for me? I am praying for an elementary teaching job, and am trying to be patient for the class and school God chooses for me, but I am hoping to move from subbing to teaching this year!
    Thank you and God bless >
    Laurie

    • 26.1
      Lindsee says:

      Laurie, praying right now (and believing in faith), that He would provide the perfect teaching position for you this coming year. Blessings!

  27. 27
    Kathie says:

    Lindsee,
    I really love your posts-the fun ones and the serious! Your honesty and openness always touch my heart.
    I am so very grateful for you.

    I love summer and am blessed with some special memories this year. My two daughters and I met up in San Diego and explored the city while one attended a week of training. While visiting my daughter near Seattle I was given an early birthday surprise. We went whale watching near the San Juan Islands and after several hours, Orca whales were spotted. I think the Lord favored us when two of the whales swam right beside our boat and put on quite a show. Now I really want to praise our Lord with my siestas and tell you of His mercy. On my way home from Washington I went across a lane of traffic and back over into a ditch. I was uninjured and, most importantly, did not injure anyone else. In all my years of driving, I have never had an accident. I don’t know the cause and I thank God over and over for His hand upon me that day. While living with some heartache in my life, God is so good to shower me with many sweet times, people, and His incredible love.

    I am lagging behind, but soaking up the Nehemiah study!

    Thank you again for all you give to us.

  28. 28
    sweet anonymous says:

    Dear Lindsee,
    Glad to hear you had such a great summer. I have to ask is that the infamous and so very special Kendall sitting there in the front of the picture and looking ever so darling? I know I’ve never met her but I think of her from time to time and say a little prayer for her, and from what I’ve heard about her thru Beth I know I would love her to peices should I ever have the privilege of meeting her. Also, I had an idea/question I wanted to pose to you? I know that Beth has to be careful about recommending books. But what about having a “section” on the blog where we as Siesta’s could recommend great reads to each other we have stumbled upon. I think it would be safe to say there are many like me, (not to mention our most beloved Siesta Mama, Grin..) that love to read and would love to hear about great books out there that already have the stamp of approval by one of our other dear sisters in Siestaville. What would you and our Siesta Mama think of that? Good idea? Bad idea?

  29. 29
    suey caldwell says:

    I have shown respect by keeping silent Job 32:6
    thx mucho Lindsee for this summer 2012 post.
    I thank you for letting me say a few things about my summer. I have never prayed so hard and seen such a spiritual warfare in my own life since i gave my life to Jesus
    aug. 1971 in high school. I am getting a breakthru just this very week. amen..I have asked Jesus to let me please
    see his hand in my life and answer to a prayer.
    fun times this summer. Going to Alaska with my hubby Jim
    meeting Andy and Sandra Stanley. going to Gaylord Resort
    near Dallas and feeling like a child again with amazing kid stuff to do. last but not least my hubby Jim and I surviving a scary glass explosion at a family reunion birthday party
    Jesus bless you so much, your friend SueyC

  30. 30
    Debbie says:

    Lindsee….you rode a gator?! That makes me grin. It would provide many hours of laughter formy family if they witnessed mr do that…sort of like an episode of I Love Lucy…only I wouldn’t be nearly so well dressed and I’d be sporting brunette locks.

    The high lights of my summer are 1). Seeing miss Beth this June in Calgary AND “getting a Word” from our great God there that is bearing much fruit and continuing to be affirmed. Say “hallelujah”!
    Enjoying the amazing worship lead by Travis and the team. I am STILL singing “Victory in Jesus”. 2)YES…the Nehemiah Study that continued in a “spooky good” way what began at Living Proof Live. Calgary. I am going back and journalling through that one and savouring His messages to me. 3) the transformation and joy God has been building into my life this summer. It will be a “from that time” kind of summer. 3) Right now I am laying by the pool with my youngest, in L.A. Yay. She heads off to south and central America for a backpacking adventure for 4-6 months. On her own. Gonna miss her. Not so yay. My knees will be sore. BUT we have a great God who is at work. So…yay!

    Thanks for your sweet posts Lindsee.

    P.s. my husband has been struck by lightning (through a metal fence he was holding) and his grandmother was struck twice. She got some white hair out of that! Perhaps one of us should be planted outside your offices πŸ˜‰

    • 30.1
      Lindsee says:

      Debbie, reading that your husband has been struck by lightning is what, unfortunately, caught my attention. That is my worst fear. How bizarre!

  31. 31
    Romona says:

    The highlight of my summer was meeting my son in Italy. Talk about overcoming some insecurities! I really had no intention of traveling outside the States and definetly not by myself. Our youngest son has been stationed in Naples, Italy for three years. He called and said he had one month leave to visit the area and could we come. Good grief – we had 3 weeks notice! My husband could not get leave from work but it worked out that I could. And how can you say no to your baby that you have not seen for over a year and have only seen once in 3 years. We met in Rome where we stayed for 2 nights. Then traveled to Florence of 3 nights and on the Venice for 3 nights before we parted ways – me traveling home alone, oy vey. And Jacob returning to Naples. It was an awesome blessing of the Lord to be able to complete such a trip. That God arranged the time off work, the travel and finances just overwhelms and amazes me. It is a summer I will not forget. And a wonderful ending is that Jacob will be based back in the states late this year!

    Praise God for he amazes with unexpected blessing!

  32. 32
    Jean says:

    Summer…it was too hot for summer. LOL

  33. 33
    amybhill says:

    I read Job 36:32-33 (ESV) in my devotions this morning and thought of you and Beth πŸ™‚

    He covers his hands with the lightning and commands it to strike the mark. Its crashing declares his presence…

    I thought to myself, well in case there was any doubt that the Lord’s presence was with LPM… there’s some confirmation πŸ™‚ lol

  34. 34
    glenwood says:

    Looks like you had an interesting summer. I have had a good summer. My praise-this summer was the 5th anniver of my heart surgery. I have been off heart meds over 4 years and am doing well. My job situation is looking up. It has been 4 years since my company closed and I have had a full-time job. I have had some temp/part-time jobs but no full-time job. Put me on your prayer lists for work and meeting my bills. Good things come to those who wait but I have tried to keep busy during the meantime. I am writing a book after working or looking for work as the case may be. It has varied over time. I am about ready to start the editing process.

  35. 35
    Debbie says:

    Well, someday you need to hear his WHOLE “story” (in fact our whole families) it is a wondrous testimony to the gracious, wonderful, amazing and hilarious hand of God in our lives — greater than our circumstances is He! Lightening is nothing when the one who created it is your God. πŸ™‚ (But don’t be fooled….I still need to hear His counsel to “walk on” and the wisdom of His word from say….Nehemiah πŸ™‚ (without it I’d be a fruitcake!!!)

    • 35.1
      Debbie says:

      P.s. Did I mention he survived the hit? Oh, and he has survived pancreatic cancer…10 years in remission this past July!

  36. 36

    Loved hearing about your summer Lindsee! A highlight from mine was going to LPL Knoxville!!!

    My heart is so tender toward the girl with insecurity about playing her guitar in front of people. You are right, that is such a big deal. Our youngest daughter, feels the same way about her violin. Just last week her teacher told her not to keep hiding her candle. I am determined to commit this to prayer after reading your post.

    Bless you Lindsee!

  37. 37
    Kathy B says:

    I’m seeing this late, but am usually good at adding my own two cents. More accurately, I probably add about a buck seventy-five. And you did say, “A highlight,” so I’ll try so keep the change πŸ™‚
    I was able to do a road trip with my two daughters. Yep, a week of girls-only-time. It was even better than I’d hoped. My 21 and 22 yr old daughters haven’t always gotten along, if you know what I mean. But watching them interact with each other as well as with me just blessed my socks off. Of course, they were off anyway-we were at the beach. All that And I got to do three puzzles. Yes, pretty nerdy. As Lindsee said, don’t judge πŸ™‚
    Thank you, Lord!
    Thanks for sharing, Lindsee.

  38. 38
    katiegfromtennessee says:

    Hey Lindsee:)

    Thanks for sharing and showing us your pics. A few highlights from my summer was going to the Emerald Coast in FL, a visit from my dad who lives in WI, finding out i am pregnant again, and going to Living Proof Live in my own hometown, Knoxville!

  39. 39
    April Jones says:

    Hello! Summer went by way too fast – but I did get the chance to spend 3 days away with my sister and some girl friends. We went to Orlando and just relaxed around the pool of our hotel for a few days. Much needed break for 5 really busy Mommies! God BLESS our husbands for taking “kid duty” over that long weekend.

    I am also working at “my own pace” on the Nehemiah study – so glad someone else didn’t get it finished in the allotted time either! πŸ™‚ I want to finish it before our Fall Women’s Bbile Study begins on Sept. 11th (we are doing When Godly People…)- I have hope I will achieve my goal.

    Sounds like you had a great summer! Thanks for sharing!

    April

  40. 40

    My highlights:
    1. Austin with my 11 yr old daughter – we went to LPL Austin and saw you, Lindsee, along with several other precious Siesta friends. We had such a wonderful time of mother daughter bonding over good food, fellowship and manis/pedis.

    2. Both kids went to camp the same week and hubs and I had our own little stay-cation. Every night we did something different. Went to 2-step lessons, went to dinner, ordered dinner in and watched a movie… It was grand.

    3. Watching the Olympics with my kids. They are both now old enough to really appreciate it and get into it.

    I’d say those are the big highlights for me. I just enjoy summer and its slower pace so much that it’s all a huge highlight. πŸ™‚

    <3
    Donna

  41. 41
    Marti says:

    You are too precious for words plain and simple, and I don’t mean maybe! Don’t let anybody ever tell you different… πŸ˜‰

  42. 42
    Billsgirl says:

    Some summer highlights for me.

    1) The Nehemiah study with my siestas at my home church and with everyone here; it was a huge blessing for me;

    2) Parasailing in Key West on our family vacation. I am afraid of heights so I prayed alot and God blessed me with an awesome experience.

    3) Triple chocolate and black cherry bread pudding with a dab of white chocolate mousse and a raspberry red wine reduction on the side. The spiced coffee was wonderful. My man and I were pre-celebrating our 20 year anniversary on Sept. 12.

    4) Our family vacation in Key West the end of July. We all had fun in the sun. Looking back, don’t even mind that rooster woke me up at 6 o’clock every morning. God certainly blessed them during Tropical Storm Isaac. (Praying for New Orleans now!)

    4)Hasn’t happened yet, but we go to the MN State Fair every year. Tomorrow is the day!!

    Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend all,
    Mary Ann, Woodbury, MN

  43. 43
    KMSmom86 says:

    I had a busy summer but it was FUN! I facilitated Beth’s study of James. We had 8-15 ladies every week and it was a great time. Our hostess has MS and is homebound, so took the study to her.

    After 8 years of teaching third grade, I accepted a position as a second grade teacher. I spent lots of time packing, moving, and unpacking all my STUFF. I am thankful for dear friends in Christ who helped me.

    The boys and I went to Oklahoma in July to see my sister, and that was fun. They have BIG fireworks there!

    The highlight of my summer was participating in a mission trip to Kamloops, B.C., with a group from my church. Our daughter served as a summer missionary there and it was special to work alongside her.

    This is the third week in school and I am very thankful for my new position. God is good!

    M.J. in Lovington, NM

  44. 44
    Diana says:

    Summer 2012 highlights???
    Our Girls Getaway with my Mom and 2 sisters. We have taken a mini vacation together every summer for 9 times now. Next year Mom will be 80 so we are taking her to Memphis because she has always wanted to see Elvis Presley’s home and grave.

    LPL Moline!!! Went with my 2 sisters and another 16 ladies from my church. What a blessing! So needed! Still listening and singing with Travis Cottrell’s cd in my car every day! Thanks to all there! Already planning our trip to see Beth next year in Springfield, Illinois!

    Having 3 of my sons home at different times this summer. Praising God for them and our oldest son. Hoping to go see him & his beautiful wife this fall.

    PS….Lindsee you are such a beautiful, Godly young woman. What an inspiration to all those around you! Loved your post!

  45. 45
    Deborah C says:

    1. My work sent me to Victoria, British Columbia for 5 days. They paid, I got to sightsee, it was hard work, but it is paying off now.

    2. I attended the Atlantic Baptist Convention in Moncton, New Brunswick and I got a word (or 2) just for me!

    3. A guy noticed me, and I noticed that he noticed me. I have been seperated for 3 years and so this is a new feeling. A little scary but this “new” feeling tells a story of the journey I have been on.

    4. After a few brutal weeks at work I drove 4 hours to Quebec and spent the weekend at an Inn by myself. It was wonderful.

    5. French language training – one week, many laughs, learned some too!

  46. 46

    I’m trying to find a way to send you an email. I want to send Beth a copy of the evaluation I did on the Charleston conference. I sent it to Lifeway, but want Beth to have a copy of it as well. The conference was superb, but the complaints I listed was a problem I would like her to be aware of as well. I’m sorry to complain, but we were asked what would we change, and I told my story!

    Please send me your email address!

    Thank you!

    Katherine

  47. 47
    Sherrill Thorne says:

    What a wonderful experience I just had! I have just arrived home from Reading, PA and I truly feel blessed to have been there. Beth, you always do such a good job at bringing the Word to life. And you are so real. I don’t care what they say about you πŸ™‚ I appreciate you, your Bible studies and the passion with which you do everything related to our almighty God. I am about to print from the link, and supply myself with the spiritual weapons against fear and anxiety! Thank you, again.
    Praise our almighty, all loving and forgiving Saviour, Jesus!

  48. 48
    Norene Meloan says:

    Hi Enrika, We would be delighted to facilitate your party. We dont have a centre in Clane, but we can use any room with tables and chairs and access to water Community Centre, GAA Club; Rugby Club etc. We have done parties before in Naas Community Centre, GAA Club and Tennis Club. Regards, Paul

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