Saturday morning update: OH MY WORD, YOU GUYS! THIS TURNED OUT TO BE ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS EVER ON THIS BLOG! SO MUCH FUN! You guys are incredibly interesting. I am knocked out right now with a sense of awe that God would allow me to interact with you. I have tons of respect for you guys. Keep doing the thing and keep resisting the cookie cutter despite the (Christian??) social pressure. You are much more interesting this way. Just hold close to Jesus and don’t let being different become it’s own pretense or attention-getter. Keep that gorgeous authenticity that makes this community my favorite cyber spot on earth. Good grief, I am so thankful for y’all.
Hey, everybody! It’s been a long time since we’ve done a survey to see who God has brought together to form this sisterhood. It’s a blast not only to behold our common bonds in Christ but to revel in our diversity as a community of very different people committed to one glorious Savior. We’d be bored stiff if we only opened our hearts and lives to those who are just like us. If we have to line up exactly on about 100 points of doctrine, we are liable to get pretty lonely. We don’t even necessarily have to work out a difference to our mutual satisfaction to treat one another with mutual esteem and to honestly love one another. Always preferring someone remarkably similar across the table from us still smells a lot like Narcissus. We may even be fooling ourselves but, at the end of the day, it’s just another form of mirror gazing. Gross.
When I get to see a group of you out there after a Living Proof Live, I always wish I could freeze the moment and stare at each of you one by one. It is the most incredibly refreshing sight. You cannot fathom how different we look in person, all banded together in a holy huddle. It makes me so dang happy. It is clear in that context that we were drawn together by something so far removed from packaging. You and I know that is Jesus. Oh, how I pray that God smiles when He drops in on this community, holds time tightly in His hand, and stares at each of us one by one.
“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:11-12
OK! What do you say we do a survey? Complete each of the following as succinctly as possible. Lindsee and I will LOVE bringing these in. Let’s do this today for the pure Jesus-joy of celebrating community!
1. Your name and where you live.
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
5. What is your #1 hobby?
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am ___________________________________________________________________.
1. Your name and where you live. – Tonya; Houston, TX
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin) almost 30 🙂
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting? in 6th grade communion at Sugar Land FUMC.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.) Financial Reporting manager for an amazing Oil & Gas company (Texon LP) with solid christians in leadership.
5. What is your #1 hobby? running
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? HFBC
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. A sweet Toy Rat Terrier named Spencer — he can be seend on my blog.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation. — disappointment; wanting to be pregnant and not pregnant YET :); Elation — God showing me some of the ways my husband is amazing and a perfect support for me.
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday. – long run in the morning, day time spent with family and friends, dinner with the hubs at a fun restaurant.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am embarrassed of my lack of dance skills.
1. Chrissy, Clemmons, NC
2. 35(almost 36).
3. Grew up in church, but I didn’t have a real relationship with Jesus until I was 25 years old – the Holy Spirit literally ran me down to the altar.
4. I work part-time as a claims administrator at a logistics company. I am working on my Masters in Theology and I home-school my two daughters(13,11).
5. READING, no doubt!
6. Yes, Calvary Baptist Church, WS,NC.
7. No pets, hubby’s allergic to most. 🙂
8. My sister’s third miscarriage/ a nice family vacation to Disney World.
9. Laundry going, while I watch a good movie with my family or read a good book.
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am a serious introvert and home is my sanctuary. 🙂
1. Ruth, Rhode Island
2. 51
3. August 3, 1985: The Lord revealed Himself to me, an atheist, in the midst of my involvement with a “self-empowerment” cult (EST) in Washington DC.
4. Editor/Home-School parent
5. Genealogy
6. Sadly, no…but looking
7. Sadly, no…but someday (Golden Retriever, perhaps :-))
8. My oldest brother is mentally ill (paranoid-schizophrenic)and keeps no contact with our family; although by God’s grace, I now know what city he lives in. I have not seen him face to face or spoken with him in 22 years. Last week I went on my “annual” trip there to see if I could get my eyes on him. (If he knew I was there, it could cause him a break, so I pray for a sighting or other confirmation that he is there/”okay”). I did not see him, despite my best sleuthing; and that is a genuine disappointment. I miss him terribly. I long to see him in the flesh.
*SLASH*
The Lord GRACIOUSLY gave me affirmation that he is still living where he was last year. Not only that, but time and TIME AGAIN, He guided me and ministered to me with His presence during the days I was there. The very hour I was leaving town, I stood blocks from where my brother lives, in front of my car, knowing it was time to go. I glanced into the little shop window I was standing in front of, and there, in my (deceased) father’s favorite colors (his college colors), amidst a window display full of nick-knacks,hung a tea towel imprinted with the slogan that has always been our “family motto”–declared as it was by our 5th-Great Uncle in the War of 1812: “DON’T GIVE UP THE SHIP.”
To say that I was deliriously overjoyed in the providence of God would be understating it. As I write this I am elated all over again in the Joy of the Lord–I am laughing through tears.
9. A perfect croissant and coffee at a certain cafe in Paris–lingering to read the paper; meeting up with my family to spend a 70-degree day roaming the streets, ending with dinner at Le Train Bleu–anticipating worship Sunday morning at St. Michel’s Anglican, following another croissant and espresso, of course.
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am goofier and sillier than I seem in public.
Mmmm, this was authentic and beautiful to read. So thankful for Jesus’ providence and peace.
1.Marci, SC.
2. 36
3. Age 11 at church
4. Public school teacher turned home schooling mom
5. Reading while drinking coffee
6.yes, Northwood Church (interdenominational)
7. No pets, but love horses and take lots of trips to zoos and aquariums
8. Having plans with friends fall through
9. a calm day together with family (touring a historical country) would be perfect.
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am spontaneously goofy.
1. Your name and where you live.
Susan Smith
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
51
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
Dec 5, 1986 after having been raised in the Episcopal church but didn’t really know Jesus. My husband of three years and I had the divorce papers drawn up and were just waiting for the other to sign. Jesus intervened in the form of my husband’s new Pastor and guilted me into some “after divorce counseling” which really turned into “save your marriage counseling” but firstly, “save your life counseling.” Found Jesus, myself and my husband on that day. Forever grateful…just celebrated our 29th wedding anniversary and have three amazing children who all know and love Jesus.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
I am the office manager and Pastor’s assistant in our children and would-be writer.
5. What is your #1 hobby?
crocheting
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
South Run Baptist Church.
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
Rescued Golden Retriever…Jack Bodacious
Rescued kitty #1…Tux
Rescued kitty #2…Chloella DeVil
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
disobeying and ignoring what I know I need to do/this week have had major blessed time with My Girl aka my prodigal.
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
Wake up on own (no alarm); My Man has my Venti bold sitting on the counter when I come down; kids still asleep; quiet time on the porch; fix a big breakfast for everyone and sit around table eating and talking and relaxing; we all get in the car and spend the day together doing whatever; get home after dinner and kids go their way and My Man and I chill at home just the two of us.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am afraid.
Sooz!
Her Evil Highness Chloe, haha!
1. Your name and where you live.
Noelle. Born in New Jersey, living in Northern Ireland.
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin):
Plah. 30.
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
17 years old. Though born as a church brat, I didn’t have a real relationship with Jesus until I was my late teens.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
I am a missionary in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
5. What is your #1 hobby?
Drinking coffee.
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
Yes! Shout out to Rock Community Church!
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
Sore subject. We recently had to get rid of our beautiful and beloved goldendoodle… long story… sniff sniff….
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
Disappointment: Having to wait an extra week for pumpkin spice lattes to hit the Starbucks in Belfast.
Elation: Getting my first pumpkin spice latte of the season and hearing that my six year old son’s speech disorder is improving! Hello! God is awesome!
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
Starbucks pumpkin spice latte in hand… while walking on one of the beautiful beaches on north coast of Ireland… with my handsome husband and my two awesome kids as they collect rocks.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am closet neat freak.
1. KaRetha Kelley, Denham Springs, LA
2. 48
3. Summer of 1980, just before my 17th birthday. After four years of a faithful youth minister literally “loving me into the kingdom” out of mormonism.
4. Ministry Financial Assistant for a Southern Baptist Association.
5. Shopping for my kids.
6. Absolutely – Amite Baptist Church. Especially the children!
7. I love dogs but my baby has always been allergic to them. So now my “boys” are my pets.
8. Poor Health/Children doing well in life and school.
9. Sleeping late and making a big breakfast with everyone at home.
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am fun to be with and really enjoy laughing.
1. Michelle – Houston, TX
2. 32 until Sunday!
3. June 2002 after hitting my lowest of points — heard the gospel from my cousin’s best friend in a car after my cousin’s wedding, went home and started searching, was saved within a month!
4. C.O.O. of our home — ; )
5. Reading
6. Yes, Humble Area’s First Baptist Church in Humble, TX
7. Yes, a black and white shih tzu named Ewok
8. My best local friend is moving to Colorado next month/my parents will be coming to visit tonight for my birthday!
9. Sleep in (you know, until 7:30 instead of 6:30), nothing on the schedule, husband not on call, great movie in the netflix envelope…not having to cook
10. indecisive!!!
1. Leslie. Midland, TX (or as I lovingly refer to it The Dust Bowl!)
2. 55 this past August. I am officially a speed limit now!
3. I was 5 or 6 years old. My precious Mom led both my sister and I to Christ. I accepted Jesus Christ at my Mother’s knee.
4. Homemaker and wannabe Grandma
5. Cross Stitch
6. Yes. Fellowship Community Church and a couple of cell groups.
7. 2 Cats. An ornery Calico named Pookie Marie and a sweet little one eyed Siamese mix named Caty (pronounced Katie) Marie. I love them!
8. Not being able to be an active grandma in our grand baby’s life. Heartbroken/Going to do some fun stuff with my all too busy husband!
9. Having an uninterrupted day with my beloved Husband
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am … Insecure about people loving me
Well, you name a cat Pookie Marie, what else do you expect her to be???
1. Pam – Dublin, VA
2. 41
3. April 13, 1980 Sunday morning church
4. Investments
5. Sports (espeically the one my boys are participating in)
6. Yes, Christ’s Church Radford
7. Yes, 2 cat and 2 dogs (a golden retriever and a rat terrier)
(p.s. Amanda’s new cat is gorgeous!)
8. A comment made to my son/God taught me something about myself this week and the implications for my future are huge!
9. At the beach, sleeping in while my man makes me breakfast and then a full day of being out in God’s gorgeous creation!
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am addicted to pens and coffee mugs!
1. Kenin-Greenwood Village, Colorado
2. 27
3. When I was 4 years-old, saying bedtime prayers. But after losing my dad at 12 years old suddenly and years full of darkness where I walked away from seeking Christ, I recommited my life to Him after college & boy, is the second time around much different & better 🙂
4. I am the Executive Assistant to the darling man in my picture who owns an Oil & Gas Company. This job and that man are absolutely evidence of God’s grace in my life.
5. The precious people in my life and everything that comes along with them!
6. Yes, such a blessing! I attend Highline Community Church in Colorado. Our Wednesday night women’s Bible Study is doing your Fruit of the Spirit study right now…it’s AMAZING!!
7. Not right now 🙁 And I am an animal lover, so this is a big time bummer for me.
8. Disappointment-Trusting & investing in people I shouldn’t have. Elation- This beautiful fall weather!!
9. A quiet morning, black coffee, a long walk, and the rest of the day spent doing things with the people I love most! Definitely lots of gabbing and laughing and yummy food!!
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am very insecure and very sensitive.
1. Wendy Brz – an Army wife currently living in Ft. Belvoir, VA
2. 53
3. April 13, 1969, in the church my grandmother raised my dad in, and in which my parents raised me. Amazing how clearly I remember every moment of my public profession of faith and baptism!
4.I work from home as an editor, mostly in the Christian market. My husband is a chaplain, so I’m blessed to serve alongside him as well.
5. My hobby is reading – I seriously don’t think I could go more than an hour without reading something.
6. For more than twenty years, I was a member of Pawleys Island Community Church in SC – now that I’m a military wife, I’m a “member” of the chapel wherever we’re stationed.
7. No pets, but I’m dying for a puppy.
8. Disappointment that some medical issues are stubbornly persisting/elation that I’m going home to visit my peeps for a few days to forget my aches and pains!
9. The perfect Saturday would include a massage, a bubble bath and a dark chocolate raspberry torte.
10 Only people who really know me realize: that I am painfully self-conscious about my appearance (I’m too heavy and am losing my hair, neither of which I can seem to do much about.)______________________________________________________________
1. Ashley O’Steen; Keystone Heights, Fl
2. 20
3. June 9, 2012; Youth group gathering called Student Takeover
4. No work at the moment, going for something in ministry just not sure what yet.
5. Riding horses
6. yes, my church and youth group
7. yes, I have a horse.
8. Not being able to get a job/ getting the scholorship to Passion 2013 from you
9. sleep as long as possible, then get up and ride, then maybe go to the lake and go wakeboarding, finish off by chilling with some friends maybe bbqing.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am
completely crazy!
1. Your name and where you live.
Katie- St. Louis, MO area
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
28
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
I was 20 years old and had been searching and asking lots of questions for months up to that point
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
Stay-at-home/homeschooling mom to 3 (soon to be 4) kiddos
5. What is your #1 hobby?
Hmm… maybe drinking coffee? Does that count? 🙂
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
Yes!! Peine Ridge Church in Wentzville, MO
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
Scout the lhasa-poo, we love him dearly!
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
Elation (will be, Lord willing) our big ultrasound on Tuesday
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
Nothing on the agenda, lots of family time
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am …really critical of others sometimes (Lord help me in this area!)
1. Your name and where you live – Elizabeth Christner, Raleigh, NC
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin) – 34
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting? I accepted Jesus as my Savior at age 5. They spoke of needing to personally accept Jesus at AWANA and after I came home and talked to my parents, I prayed with them.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.) – I am a part time nurse/stay at home mom
5. What is your #1 hobby? cooking
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? yes – Crossroads Fellowship
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. – yes a dog named Kaesa (German for cheese – because I love to cook and my husband loves to eat we name all of our animals after food 🙂 )
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation. disappointment: recurring health issues/ husband’s new job
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday. – snuggling in bed with my boys, chocolate chip pancakes for breakfast, soccer games, naps and pro-football
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I – deal with anxiety on a too regular basis
1. Harmony G. Crown Point, IN
2. 35
3. About 7 years ago. I attended a Women’s Network meeting at a local church after being asked by a family friend.
4. I am a Licensed Practical Nurse but have been a homemaker on and off for years.
5. I love to crochet.
6. Yes, Living Hope Church in Merrillville, IN.
7. Yes, a black Labrador named Cash. (As in Johnny Cash…)
8. Disappointment- being hugely let down by someone I considered a close friend. Elation- watching my husband become saved and walk out his faith and becoming a truly godly man.
9. Coffee on my deck, spending the day with my teenage girls and my husband eating a meal, playing yahtzee and a bonfire at night.
10. Sometimes overcome with fear, insecurity and self- doubt.
1. Cindy, North Carolina
2. Early 40s (so hard to believe that!)
3. Responded to an altar call during 7th grade youth group
4. A consultant, who travels all over the US almost weekly, I spend a lot of time on airplanes and in hotels
5. Anything involving food! I love to cook
6. We’re currently looking for a new church so feeling a bit disconnected right now
7. 3 playful kitties
8. My favorite team didn’t make the playoffs/ discovering a new favorite pumpkin muffin at my local coffee shop. (It’s the little things that make me happy these days)
9. Sleeping in, a big yummy brunch, shopping w a girlfriend, date night w my husband
10 Only people who really know me realize that I love unexpected endings of movies, books, and other stories…. The more twists and turns a story has, the better! ___________________________________________________________________.
1. Beverly, Grand Rapids, MI
2. 44
3. I was about 30. After years of trying to find love in all the wrong places and all the consequences that can result from such a quest, one night I was so alone, so hurt, so lost, so devastated, I climbed out of bed onto my knees and cried out to the ONLY one left and accepted Jesus as my savior. I have never been the same!
4. I’ve been a paralegal for 16 years
5. What is your #1 hobby? Exercising
6. My church family is at Sunshine Community Church
7. No pets. Too busy! But I would love to have a small dog.
8. Realizing the man I was interested in was not the man I thought he was. Back to waiting.
9. My perfect Saturday involves sleeping in, eating a leisurely breakfast, reading, shopping and/or a walk outside, then game night with friends.
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am alone much more than I care to be.
1. Shayne – Seymour, TN
2. 40
3. This one is difficult…I was 12, but wasn’t serious about it until I was 21. I had just given birth to my first child and my marriage was in a mess. I looked at my sleeping daughter and wished I could have that much peace…and right there…right in the dark of that room and that situation…Jesus found me. Again.
4. I’m a glorified bookkeeper for 40 hours and a part-time newborn photographer with Bella Baby Photography.
5. Right now…photography. Writing is a close second.
6. Yes…Foothills Worship Center (love those guys!)
7. No. I do have a 9-month-old grandbaby. I think that should count.
8. I lost my temper after trying so hard to learn the lesson of forgiveness and keeping my mouth shut/just ran into a former co-worker who reminded me of a time I prayed for their wife (years ago!) and I had forgotten all about it, but they remembered after all this time.
9. Get up early/sunshiney/hop in the car with the hubs and the grandbaby and take a ride through the mountains.
10. …I am a horrible housekeeper. Only a select few of my closest friends are allowed in my house.
1. Your name and where you live. Lee, Leola, PA
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin) 62 (feel 36 today)
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting? Age 11 in my church at a revival meeting.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.) Currently retired but worked as public health nurse and then school nurse for total of 41 years
5. What is your #1 hobby? Reading and gardening
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? Yes, Hempfield Brethren in Christ Church
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. 2 cats Zeke and Bella
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation. My son’s chronic illness getting worse/ my daughter going on mission trip to AK
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday. Breakfast out with family, watching grandson’s sports games, time int the garden and a book.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am still needing lots of approval.
Lorie, Columbia, SC
2. 52
3. 19 years old, in my college dorm room.
4. Currently unemployed.
5. Knitting (right now)
6. YES! Shandon Baptist Church
7. One 18 year old dog named Daisy. She is a rescue dog so we are not really sure “what” she is. She is PRECIOUS
8. Biggest dissapointment has to do with a family member. Biggest elation – my 20 year old son emailed my husband and told him that he thought God wanted him to read his Bible everyday. He asked him to explain how to have a quiet time. (YES!)
9. Sleep in. Have my sons drop by the house, spend the day with my husband.
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am in physical pain everyday.
1. Jane, Lexington, NC
2. 52
3. 13 at VBS
4. Executive Assistant to President & CEO of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts (love my job, he’s a Godly man)
5. Reading
6. Pinedale’s Christian Church, Winston-Salem
7. Not now 🙁
8. Disappointment – getting deathly sick on my missn trip to Jamaice this summer and air-cared to Miami! Elation – feeling much better and got home to take my oldest daughter to college!
9. Sleeping in, going out to breakfast with my family and sitting under a tree reading!
10. Insecure
1. Calista, Kansas
2. 51
3. 7 years old, alone in my room
4. SAHM, homeschool teacher, p/t stage manager (theatre)
5. blogging, writing
6. Oh, yes! Grace Christian Fellowship Church
7. 4 kitties: 2 outdoor (Bonnie & Clyde), 1 indoor (Snickers), 1 indoor/outdoor (Hershey)
8. disappointment – not being able to fit my black jeans last night. Biggest recent elation – receiving an adorable picture of my newest grandson.
9. Quiet, reading, some outside time, coffee may or may not be involved. 😉
10. Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am absolutely terrible at answering questions like this.
1. Kami Unger, Steinbach MB Canada
2. 38 years old
3. 9 Years old at Bible Camp
4. My #1 job is mom and wife, but I also do the accounting/book keeping for my husband’s business.
5. Spending time with my family and friends.
6. I am so blessed to be an active member of Southland Church here in Steinbach Mb.
7. Oh yes. 3 sweet dogs, 6 farm cats, 4 goldfish.
8. Shutting down our 100 year old family farm/Being able to keep our homestead after selling just about everything else.
9. Coffee with my husband in front of the fireplace, hanging out with our kids, then our Church service at 6:00pm.
10 …am often scared.
1. JoAnn Janik, Houston, TX
2. Just turned 56 (and was born in 1956 !)
3. 1998 – I had been reading and studying spiritual literature since my divorce in 1994. A coworker brought to my attention (in a loving way) how much more God’s Word is our answer of what this life is all about before spiritual literature, (not putting down these authors, but redirecting my focus). She invited me to Beth Moore Bible Study at HFB and I’ve been in the Word ever since. That same special friend bought me my first NIV Study Bible and I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior.
4.I am an admin. assistant for an engineering department for a major oil & gas service company. I’ve been there for 21 years.
5. I love watching movies.
6. Unfortunately, no.
7. If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. – no, had a cat (Meisha) for 20 years though.
8. My birthday was both disappointing (only because my expectations were high) concerning a few people, HOWEVER, God brought everything in balance when my son (24) drove in from college (A&M) and came to my office to have lunch with me. THAT was grand !!
9. Getting up early, having coffee and breakfast while watching a movie, doing some chores, getting a mani/pedi and meeting a friend for dinner.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am – perfectly content living by myself.
1- Stacy from Gainesville,Florida.
2- 48
3- Between 7th and 8th grade my sister was saved and baptized after a blessed stranger shared the gospel with her on the beach. When we were visited by the local Baptist preacher, I had questions and he tenderly explained the gospel and I asked Christ to be my Lord. My mom, dad and I were baptized shortly thereafter. 🙂
4- Nurse on a large college campus.
5- Cooking 🙂 and I’ve decorated cakes for years
6- YES! Wonderful evangelistic, mission oriented Westside Baptist of Gainesville, FL.
7- Ruby, our 90 lb Bernese Mtn dog; she “thinks” she is 5lbs.
8- A recent trial which has reminded me, “you are not in control.” Too much to write here. 🙁
9-A perfect Saturday is with my big, happy family anywhere they wanna be! I am blessed!
10- …realize that I give the benefit of the doubt alot.
1. Jill Vandalia, MO
2. 47
3. 14,at church
4. small business owner
5. running
6. Yes, First Baptist Vandalia
7. We have 3 rescue pets. Saved a mix breed dog from the pound. Saved a feral cat from a dog visiting my in laws farm and rescued a solid black kitten from a frigid December night. They all get along surprisingly well.
8. Business downturn/ having 2 out 3 of my college kids home last weekend.
9. Sitting on the dock at the lake with a good book.
10. not brave.
Bath, PA
2. 29
3. 14 years old, alone in the middle of the night in my bedroom
4. Left work to raise my kids
5. Reading
6. Allentown Bible Church, allentownbiblechurch.com
7. NO! 🙂
8. No unemployment help for all this time my husband’s been laid off b/c someone in the office stole his unemployment taxes/hearing my 6 year old son say he believes so he thinks he is a christian
9. Sleeping as long as I can stand it, having a chef come and cook me brunch, browsing my huge stack of magazines that have been waiting for me for over a year 🙂
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am held back by my daily chronic pain. I am actually very social and loud and active inside, but these muscles keep the real me from shining through most days.
1. Your name and where you live.
Kris – Sunnyside, WA
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
62…don’t know when that happened!
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
30′s
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
Secretary at my church.
5. What is your #1 hobby?
Crafts of all kinds
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?’
Yes, Sunnyside Christian Reformed Church
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
Just my hubby.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
My dad passed away in January leaving the care of my mother to my brother and me.
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
Spending time with my best friend or grandkids
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am
sad
1. Anne Acker – Johnson City, TN
2. 37
3. Age 5 in church on Sunday night, but rededicated
myself at 18 after a faith crisis.
4. English professor at a small college
5. I like to read and play computer games.
6. University Parkway Baptist Church. I do
children’s ministry and some women’s ministry.
7. I have a very spoiled kitty named Pookie, who
likes to ride around on my shoulder.
8. A precious and talented niece, who genuinely
wants to follow Jesus, broke her relationship
with our family to align herself with a church
that has isolated her from other friends and
interests./ I was awarded my doctorate in May and
a teaching position opened up for me very
suddenly at the end of the summer. I am deeply
grateful for the doors God is opening.
9. My family likes visit a certain small, touristy
town in the mountains. The best trips include
sitting in the park on a beautiful day, eating
pastries at a certain restaurant and browsing
favorite shops.
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am
struggling to balance work with the demands of my
family (of origin), and that I am often
frustrated and discouraged.
1. Your name and where you live.
Julie- Cincinnati, OH
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
32
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
6 years ago, at church during worship music
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward.
I’m an executive assistant.
5. What is your #1 hobby?
Reading
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
Yes, Impact Church
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
2 dogs. An Australian Shepherd and a Cavapoo (Scout and Cody)
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
The enemy’s lies that someone I love is believing/a dear friend who recently accepted Christ!
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
Hanging out with my family outside or watching a football or baseball game.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am
Funny 🙂
1. Fonda; Waller, TX
2. 48
3. 8 years old at home after a revival meeting
4. Office Manager for a Fire Sprinkler Subcontractor
5. Reading
6. Unfortunately, no…but I am visiting in search of a new home church.
7. Yes, 3 dogs, 1 cat & 9 cows
8. Loss of a grandchild @ 32 weeks of pregnancy/the birth of two beautiful granddaughters
9. College Football watch party with the family
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am introspective to a fault.
1. Your name and where you live. Amy, Fort Mill, SC
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin) 34
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting? 7, small ministry church
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.) Programmer
5. What is your #1 hobby? blogging/reading!
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? North Rock Hill Church
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. two labs
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation. Biggest elation is helping my mentoree get some dental work done and seeing her gain her confidence back
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday. Reading and writing WITHOUT guilt of doing it
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am… talkative!
1. Chris – Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
2. almost 40
3. when I was very young – maybe 4 or 5. With my Mom in our living room.
4. homemaker and homeschooler
5. cooking/baking
6. Yes – a wonderful Baptist Church
7. no pets. Allergies. Grrrr. (no pun intended)
8. a significant betrayal / finding out a dear friend is finally pregnant, after such a long struggle for her.
9. Family, being at home, cooking for my crew, lots of games, date with darling hubby at night
10. How much I love a good newspaper.
1. Aimee Thoennes, Burlingame, KS
2. Fabulous and Fairly Fearless 40
3. As a child, rekindled in youth group and again fell away, back with Jesus FULL ON in 2006!!
4. Executive Assistant to the President of a Motorsport Sanctioning body : )
5. Golf
6. Yes, Grace Community Church, Overbrook, KS
7. No
8. Had a sisterhood birth at LPL Simulcast in September :)9. A day with nowhere to be!
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am neurotic!
1. Your name and where you live. Becky, Hurst, Texas
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin) 53
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the
setting? age 9, at home
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re
steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor
longer hours.) computer/server support person(geek) for a local library
5. What is your #1 hobby? reading
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? yes, Crossroads BC,
Lancaster, Texas
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. yes, two cats and two dogs, a
rat terrier and a husky
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation. have diabetes/it can be
controlled!
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday. sleeping in, getting some coffee from our Keurig, and
catching up with all things online, no laundry to do, nowhere to go
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am a recently diagnosed
diabetic.
1. Beth… Gig Harbor, WA
2. 46
3. 5 when I asked Jesus into my tender heart. Mid twenties when I realized I was truly a sinner in need of grace and sought His transformation
4. I do my husbands books for his company
5.I need an updated one. Life is just beginning to allow the thought of having one
6. yes…Believers Fellowship
7. A miniature pom named Bella. Taking care of her for our future daughter in law while she finishes school
8. Realizing my mom’s memory is shrinking/ experiencing God lead us through a multi-organ transplant for my son
9. A beautiful fall Saturday, riding my bike on the 30 mile trail by the river with a breath taking view of Mt Rainier with my man. Then Mexican food that evening with all the kids and their special someones
10. Shy and struggle with feelings of inadequacy
1. Rebecca Tyndall; Vancleave, MS
2. 38
3. I was 18 years old; my favorite college history professor led me to the Lord in her office
4. I’m a high school history/political science teacher; part-time college professor (yes, the woman who led me to the Lord had a huge impact on my major–that, and an intense love for history and political science!)
5. My number one hobby is reading. I ADORE READING! I love getting lost in a great read.
6. Worship Center East (non-denominational) in Grand Bay, AL
7. No pets, but we do live in the middle of a pasture with a bunch of cattle. And we have wild hogs, coyotes, deer, turkey, rabbits and a host of other wild animals that I consider my pets. Oh, and hummingbirds, too!
8. Being laid off for a year and a half/finding the perfect job for me teaching at high school
9. Waking up late, having coffee on the porch and spending the day having fun with my family (my husband, my 5 year old daughter and my 3 year old son). Perfect day indeed!
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am very much a protector of my family time. Even though I am extremely social, I do not like to be everywhere and do everything–I like to be at home with my family as much as possible!
1. Juli Daniels in Chokio MN (west central)
2. Early 40s
3. I think the time I accepted Christ was when I was six, after a Sunday School lesson about Jesus coming to knock on your door. Had a dream that night that Jesus did come to my house to talk to me. Accepted Him in my heart then.
4. Personal Banker. Hoping that will change soon to something like a teacher of Gods Word.
5. Reading….cross stitch….crochet. All a close tie.
6. Yep…Morris Evangelical Free Church.
7. Black Lab mixed with a Rot. Sweetest, smartest,
Most spoiled dog ever.
8. Biggest disappointment: still working as a personal banker. Biggest elation: LPL! It was awesome & such a good reminder of Gods live for us.
9. Walking on the beach with my husband. If only we lived near water again.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am: a total worrier & completely insecure.
_____________________________________________________________.
1. Amber Moon, Lincolnton, NC
2. 32
3. 8 years old during VBS at Dallas Baptist Church (Dallas, NC)
4. I am an administrative assistant / department coordinator for 155 accountants (large, national company).
5. Carolina Shag Dancing (similar to swing)
6. Yes, Bethlehem Church in Gastonia, NC
7. One big, precious tabby cat of 10 years, Boomer.
8. Elation – Finally getting my mom playing the piano on video (don’t know why I’ve never done that, but she’s amazing)! I’ve watched it over and over this past week.
9. Sleeping in, cooking breakfast, quiet time, going for a bike ride, cheeseburger for lunch, nap, dinner out with friends, then dancing (see #5) – all with my husband.
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am not as confident as I may seem.
1. Joelle, Jacksonville Florida
2. 40
3. 15 years old; by myself listening to Amy Grant in my bedroom.
4. Lawyer
5. Coaching soccer.
6. Yes. Deermeadows Baptist Church
7. Lucy, a little Bichon Frise–white fluffball. 🙂
8. I don’t really get disappointed for things in my life, but when my kids get their hopes up for something and they get crushed…that hurts! Elation would be that my teen/tween sons still want to lay in their momma’s lap.
9. Coach a soccer game; win said soccer game (sorry, that’s just me); then watch some college football with the family. Throw in a long walk in the early evening….perfection.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I have an alter ego named Margaret who likes to entertain the kids at breakfast. She is very straight laced, has no emotional intelligence although she means well,and takes herself far too seriously. We kind of have a hoot with all different characters we’ve created.
1. Joyce Watson
Oklahoma
2. 50’s (I’m shy about my age)
3. I was 16 years old when I came to Christ, later my parents re-dedicated their lives and my sister also came to Christ. Before this we did not go to church very much.
After my dad retired from the Air Force we moved back to my parent’s home place in Ms. and for the first time we went to church as a family.
4. I work part-time. Starting a new job at Cyril Elementary School as assistant/ sub-teacher. Have worked in another school sub-custodian, sub-cook, or sub-teacher for several years.
5. Hobby_ I like to oil paint and write usually poems,devotions or short stories
6. First Baptist Church of Cyril
7. Do I have pets, do I ever…one dog named Rex, two kittens, and two grown cats named Precious and Prissy…need a pet?
8. Feelings of rejection sometimes crop up and missing having a good, close friends like we use to have-Thankful for my family, a loving husband and boys who love the Lord
9. Having a picnic in the Witchta Mountains, taking a walk and just enjoying spending time with family
10. …that my heart wants reach out to help others who are in need or suffer, that need the Lord, that hurt…but few people actually know me that well_I want to do something to really help, not just talk about it.
YOU MAKE ME SMILE, BETH ….LOVE YOUR HEART!
1. Diane; Fresno, CA as of yesterday…
2. 39
3. I met Jesus at summer camp while in Jr High
4. I am a stay-home mom with a job as a project manager for a leadership trainer
5. I enjoy drinking coffee while talking with friends…is that a hobby?
6. First Pres Church in Fresno, CA…starting on the 15th
7. one cat, “Violet”
8. leaving our church family of 10 years (in a community all 3 of our children we born in) has been hard/joining a new church next week for a new call (pastor family here) is a great joy…strange to feel all these emotions at the same time
9. watching college football with a home full of people watching the game and way too much food to eat
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am a crier.
1. Michelle Carter, Grand Island, Nebraska
2. 48
3. I was 9 years old and came forward at a revival at my home church to accept Jesus as my Savior. I remember sitting in the pew feeling of conviction and that I had to do something about it NOW!
4. I am a 5th grade classroom teacher.
5. My #1 hobby is reading. I’m a murder/mystery/suspense junkie. I don’t really get much chance in during the school, so sometimes I have to sneak it in, waiting in the car to pick up kids, cooking dinner, etc.
6. I am active at Third City Christian Church, here in GI.
7. We have a silkypoo (half silky terrier and half teacup poodle) names Bella. She is the apple of her mama’s eye.
8. My biggest elation of late was for my daughter, Hannah, to be chosen as one of the leads in her 8th Grade Musical! Proud Mama moment! 🙂
9. A perfect Saturday….sleeping in, the kids and I making cinnamon rolls and scrambled eggs for breakfast. Lounging in our jammies watching a movie or reading. For lunch, we would head to our favorite Saturday place, Sutter’s Deli, for yummy sandwiches and mini pizzas. Then home for the Husker football game. Saturday night we make popcorn and watch a movie. Oh, and a Diet Coke by my side all day. My favorite Saturdays are when we aren’t running here, there, and everywhere – the kids and I are just together for the fun of it.
10. Only people who know really know me realize that I am really tender-hearted and am afraid to put myself out there again.
1. Your name and where you live. Michelle- Houston, TX
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin) forever 29
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting? Freshmen in high school at Young Life
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.) I’m a Kindergarten teacher
5. What is your #1 hobby? Having fun
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? I’m involved aat 2 churches
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. 1 cat named Macy. She could use a little extra prayer right now
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation. Not eating healthy/ I love my new job
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday. Spending time with family and friends
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am caring
1. Kathy from Fort Smith, Arkansas
2. 59 years old
3. As a child I knew my heart belonged to only Him. I think I was about 10 when I was baptized, then again as an adult when my 2 kids were baptized.
4. I work for an oil and gas exploration company in the geology dept.
5. My hobby is sewing clothes for my 2 year old granddaughter.
6. Rye Hill Baptist Church, Fort Smith, Arkansas
7. A black lab named Annie, who has no idea she’s a dog but believes she is just a member of the family, which she is.
8. Elation was attending the simulcast last month, I loved it!
9. Perfect Saturday is early morning coffee and bible, then relaxing with family and playing all day.
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am thrilled to be alive and loving Jesus. I am a 3 year breast cancer survivor!
1. Your name and where you live: Sandra, Spring Hill, TN
2. Your age: 38 years
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting: Age 10, VBS, Friday, June 1984.
4. What line of work are you in: Human Resources
5. What is your #1 hobby? Reading
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? YES! The best one in the area! The Church at Station Hill in Thompson’s Station, TN
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. Yes. A black service dog (mostly lab…belongs to my husband…service dogs work, so not technically a “pet”), a beagle and 2 kitties.
8. Your biggest recent elation: Getting my daughter from China! 6 months home!
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday: One with no laundry, no errands and all the family home when it’s warm enough (but not too hot) to play outside ALL day.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am very shy around people I don’t know.
1. Rebecca from Akron, OH
2. 25 years old
3. My relationship with Jesus began as a five year old when my mother was “practicing” being a leader for an upcoming Billy Graham Kid’s Crusade
4. I work for a marketing/fundraising consulting firm
5. My #1 hobby is reading! I love to lose myself in a good book
6. We go to a great church across the street from us, Grace Church
7. Just got a black lab/border collie mix we named Maggie. My first pet! I was incredibly anxious that we would never have a clean house again, with the dog hair and the shedding and the accidents puppies are known to have. I honestly kept thinking about pictures I’ve seen of Beth’s house on this blog or over on Twitter, and reminding myself she has TWO dogs, and her house looks great AND clean! Thanks for being an inspiration, Beth! 🙂
8. Let’s go with biggest recent elation! Last week my boss encouraged me to apply for an open position in the company. I am actually more thrilled in the affirmation than the idea of promotion! Yes, my love language is Words of Affirmation!
9. The perfect Saturday starts with a run, a nice long shower, some household cleaning/laundry responsibilities and an afternoon of relaxing, at home with my Mister or out with a friend and a hot cup of coffee. We go to church on Saturday night – so we would go to church and enjoy a late dinner with church friends. Perfection!
10. Only people who really know me realize that when I am really laughing I don’t make any noise and have to catch my breath. If you hear me laughing, I’m usually just being polite.
1. Freddia Jean Sullivent, Alma, AR
2. 59
3. At age 18 at a small Souther Baptist church in Odessa, Texas
4. Senior Accountant for a healthcare provider
5. #1 hobby-cross stitch
6. Yes, Butterfield Assemby of God in Van Buren, AR since 2000
7. Yes, I have pets. In the house have Bosley a small white joy who talked into our yard 5 year ago and straight into my heart is my cuddle partner at night. Barkey, name fits small redish brown mix dog who I found walking down the middle of our road in the county a year and half ago. Cat-Mr. Traveler a huge cat who thinks he is in control of everthing. Outside have a Black Lab named Blackie and a small mixed color terrier named Ruffel Muffin who my husband picked up several months ago when he was on the side of a busy highway. We have a soft spot for the lost ones.
8. After a 4 year long battle with Chron’s, I am very close to going in to remission. Clinical the results say I am there; but, I still have problems from time to time so not there yet. Two years ago was very close to death.
9. A sunny fall day in the Ozark Mountains enjoying the beautiful colors of the trees with my husband.
10. I am a very private person and do like to share certain parts of my life with others. Don’t do facebook as am not interested in the complete details of others lifes.
1. Rita, Birmingham, AL
2. 46
3. childhood
4. Accounting
5. eating popcorn and watching movies (not really a hobby)
6. greater shiloh missionary baptist church, bham,al
7. no pets
8. disappointment: seeing the true nature of people during this election year. elation: knowing that God is answering my prayers for a pure heart that pleases Him in all that I say and do…
9. lunch with my Mom!
10. I am… generous from my pure heart: not for the show of man!