We have been in Miami for a month now. I am still having a hard time with the move. I struggle daily to find the purpose in God's direction for our family. I realize and know full well that sometimes we are moved our of our comfort zone and its not for us but for His kingdom. I wish i could see that this move was going to be something great for our family but in heart i feel that this move had nothing to do with us, our quality of life, our pleasure, our happiness or our enjoyment but more to further the Lords work. He can do His work with or with out us so I should be honored that we have been chosen to be part of His plan. right now in the midst of things its hard for me but perhaps one day i can look back and see how this was an awesome thing for our family to have been part of Gods plan and work. I have to commit to being content in EVERY situation. this is a tough time for me (by the way my family is doing great with the move) but In my heart i really do know that this is what we were supposed to do and I am praying that my feelings will change as i continue to live out the actions that I know please the Lord.
Coach has jumped right in to his routine. He has football workouts every day from 4-6. The kids are enjoying spending time at my friends house because she has a lake in the back and only lives a few blocks away. The house we are renting is very small but so close to everything. that is a definite pluse but the space thing is frustrating sometimes. I don't feel like inviting anyone over since we can barely fit our family. Coach and i don't have a bedroom because i am using it as a work room. We have made 2 offers on forclosed houses but the market here is hot. Things are priced much lower than they were years ago (still expensive though) and as a result houses fly of the market. One of the houses we bid on had around 30 offers. that would have been a great house (close to school and friends), pool, boat parking, big eating area for great dinners with friends and family, awesome curb appeal and GREAT price BUT we didn't get it. The second house we bid on was big, newer, close to our first home we owned, huge lot, pool, HIGH ceilings, Mud room, large living spaces BUT we didn't get it. I am fine with not getting that one since the property taxes were going to be about $10,000 a year.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Its been a while
It has been about 2.5 months since my last entry and things have most definitely changed around here. We packed our house and closed on March 30th, moved into a corporate rental. with our things loaded on a truck and gone ahead to Florida we (i) didn't have much to do the last month or so. I don't have my machines, and have much smaller living quarters to clean and keep with that being said i have had much more time on my hands. So, what did i do, i signed up for tennis (me and the kids). Its been fun and hope to continue lessons when i get to Florida. I went to Florida to run tryouts and was quite excited to see the final teams. I am looking forward to a great year. There will be much work ahead of us but never the less I am eager.
So where am I today. I am secretly an emotional mess, i cry at the drop of a pin. When I think of how God blessed us over the last several years along our journey to clearwater and then Raleigh I am humbled. I realize all the things, and feelings that I have experienced and I am so thankful. At the same time I am so perplexed and inquisitive, I am not angry but just wish I understood. Although, I do understand this move somewhat, I know that God has a plan for our family and is going to bless us as we submit ourselves to be used as a vessel to further His kingdom. Even still, I continue to question Him. Not in an irreverent way but just in a WHY, way. I have grown to really love and enjoy so many things here in NC. I will miss some of the friends He has sent my way. I learned so much. I have learned about friends, foes, arrogance and hippocracy . I pray that the lessons i have experienced or seen others experience will forever change me.
What i learned about the people both friends and, to put it kindly, Others.
Friends: I have learned how unselfish people can be when they are your true friends. I have seen people show kindness. I have friends that have put their busy life, painful situations to be a friend. GM has a sick son yet she manages to be kind and make time to help when ever I need her. CM invited me into her life, made me feel like I was welcome. She is real, she is kind and despite a busy life she has made me feel loved. NL has been my sounding board, my friend, my rock the 1st year, her hospitality is never ending.
I WILL make time for others when they need it, I will put my selfish ambitions aside when a friend need something from me, I will be real, I will be kind.
I am praying for compassion, I am praying that the Lord will make me sensitive to that person that needs someone to welcome them, I am praying for a more selfless approach to life in general. I want to be selfless enough that I know what is going on in others lives because I am not so caught up in my own that i don't care.
OTHERS: What I will change as a result of what i learned from those that i will call "others"- Be sensitive to including others, invite their opinions, (not that I have the money but) won't try to buy others, don't show favoritism (on team), let everyone know that they are important (on team), be open to change.
As far as coaching what I want to remember is that I do this for ONLY one reason. To glorify God. He has called me to coach ms and hs girls and mentor coaches at this time in my life. So what will I do with this? I will keep Him at the center. Success isn't only measured in trophies, most important it is measured in a unit that only God can translate. I will abide in Him so that day in and day out I can be encouraged that His work is being done and cheerleading is simply the medium. I will not let the enemy penetrate and convince me that I am not good enough.
As Far as Miami, as of today my approach and response to the question "are you excited about moving" will be completely different. I will focus on the fact that this is going to be the ride of our life. This is what God has for our family right now and only great things can happen when you walk with the Lord and follow that path He has called you down. So from today on my answer is, "yes, I am excited and eager to see what God has planned for our Family". Once I arrive in Miami I will be positive, i will think on those blessings that God has given us, I will seek out the good things that Miami as to offer but more importantly I will seek out the Lord and see Him around me daily.
We are blessed that He choose our family and has given us the opportunity to be used by Him to further His kingdom. I pray that our family will continue to grow spiritually, not be come conformed to those things that I know the Lord isn't pleased with.
We have 7 days left in Raleigh, I will look for and be thankful the blessings the Lord will give us here in Raleigh and seek to work for Him in any way that he calls us to in these final days here.
Thank you Lord that you know our future and you are in control. Thank you for loving us so much that you desire to give us what is best.
So where am I today. I am secretly an emotional mess, i cry at the drop of a pin. When I think of how God blessed us over the last several years along our journey to clearwater and then Raleigh I am humbled. I realize all the things, and feelings that I have experienced and I am so thankful. At the same time I am so perplexed and inquisitive, I am not angry but just wish I understood. Although, I do understand this move somewhat, I know that God has a plan for our family and is going to bless us as we submit ourselves to be used as a vessel to further His kingdom. Even still, I continue to question Him. Not in an irreverent way but just in a WHY, way. I have grown to really love and enjoy so many things here in NC. I will miss some of the friends He has sent my way. I learned so much. I have learned about friends, foes, arrogance and hippocracy . I pray that the lessons i have experienced or seen others experience will forever change me.
What i learned about the people both friends and, to put it kindly, Others.
Friends: I have learned how unselfish people can be when they are your true friends. I have seen people show kindness. I have friends that have put their busy life, painful situations to be a friend. GM has a sick son yet she manages to be kind and make time to help when ever I need her. CM invited me into her life, made me feel like I was welcome. She is real, she is kind and despite a busy life she has made me feel loved. NL has been my sounding board, my friend, my rock the 1st year, her hospitality is never ending.
I WILL make time for others when they need it, I will put my selfish ambitions aside when a friend need something from me, I will be real, I will be kind.
I am praying for compassion, I am praying that the Lord will make me sensitive to that person that needs someone to welcome them, I am praying for a more selfless approach to life in general. I want to be selfless enough that I know what is going on in others lives because I am not so caught up in my own that i don't care.
OTHERS: What I will change as a result of what i learned from those that i will call "others"- Be sensitive to including others, invite their opinions, (not that I have the money but) won't try to buy others, don't show favoritism (on team), let everyone know that they are important (on team), be open to change.
As far as coaching what I want to remember is that I do this for ONLY one reason. To glorify God. He has called me to coach ms and hs girls and mentor coaches at this time in my life. So what will I do with this? I will keep Him at the center. Success isn't only measured in trophies, most important it is measured in a unit that only God can translate. I will abide in Him so that day in and day out I can be encouraged that His work is being done and cheerleading is simply the medium. I will not let the enemy penetrate and convince me that I am not good enough.
As Far as Miami, as of today my approach and response to the question "are you excited about moving" will be completely different. I will focus on the fact that this is going to be the ride of our life. This is what God has for our family right now and only great things can happen when you walk with the Lord and follow that path He has called you down. So from today on my answer is, "yes, I am excited and eager to see what God has planned for our Family". Once I arrive in Miami I will be positive, i will think on those blessings that God has given us, I will seek out the good things that Miami as to offer but more importantly I will seek out the Lord and see Him around me daily.
We are blessed that He choose our family and has given us the opportunity to be used by Him to further His kingdom. I pray that our family will continue to grow spiritually, not be come conformed to those things that I know the Lord isn't pleased with.
We have 7 days left in Raleigh, I will look for and be thankful the blessings the Lord will give us here in Raleigh and seek to work for Him in any way that he calls us to in these final days here.
Thank you Lord that you know our future and you are in control. Thank you for loving us so much that you desire to give us what is best.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
So let me give you the short story
It has been a whirlwind around here since Feb. 26th. We traveled to Miami the weekend of Feb. 24th. While in Miami we received an offer for the purchase of our home in NC. Is that God or what? We put a sign up about 3-4 weeks before and did not hire a realtor. Since we recently purchased our home we thought this may be the way to lose the least amount of money. Well God is bigger than all of my worries and he brought us an offer (we are losing some money but definitely not as bad as it could have been). The catch was that we would have to move by March 30. the new owners need to take ownership on march 30th and we have a contract at the school till June 1st. It is a great dilemma nevertheless it is a dilemma. So have been busy packing everything we want and selling everything we don't want or wont have room for. We found a corporate rental that we will live in for 2 months prior to moving to Miami. God opened the doors for a rental in Miami (right across the street from the school) at a VERY affordable price. This will allow us to save money up for a down payment for an overpriced, micro-sized house in Miami.
I am slowly getting used to the idea of Miami living. However I am going, going, going!. packing 3500sf and trying to fit in 1500SF is going to be quite the challenge, hence the daily selling on Craigslist.
I am actually ok with all the selling i have been doing. I feel like I am simplifying our life every time i get rid of something in our home. so here is the plan
march13-26: cheer practice, travel to myrtle beach for cheer competition, volunteer at school for kids class, pack, monogram end of year gifts, organize taxes and file taxes, meet with builder to fix things covered by warranty, try to work somewhere in here (don't think i will be able to), pack, pack, pack
March 27: UPAK trailer arrives and movers load everything we aren't taking to the corporate rental with us.
march 30: close on the sale of our home and move into Temp. rental in Raleigh
april1-June 1: enjoy the last 2 months we have in Raleigh. i will definitely try to catch up on work during this time. we will travel to Miami for Easter and spring break.
JUNE 2: MOVE to Miami!!!!
THANK YOU LORD for your provision, your peace and your omniscience.
I am slowly getting used to the idea of Miami living. However I am going, going, going!. packing 3500sf and trying to fit in 1500SF is going to be quite the challenge, hence the daily selling on Craigslist.
I am actually ok with all the selling i have been doing. I feel like I am simplifying our life every time i get rid of something in our home. so here is the plan
march13-26: cheer practice, travel to myrtle beach for cheer competition, volunteer at school for kids class, pack, monogram end of year gifts, organize taxes and file taxes, meet with builder to fix things covered by warranty, try to work somewhere in here (don't think i will be able to), pack, pack, pack
March 27: UPAK trailer arrives and movers load everything we aren't taking to the corporate rental with us.
march 30: close on the sale of our home and move into Temp. rental in Raleigh
april1-June 1: enjoy the last 2 months we have in Raleigh. i will definitely try to catch up on work during this time. we will travel to Miami for Easter and spring break.
JUNE 2: MOVE to Miami!!!!
THANK YOU LORD for your provision, your peace and your omniscience.
Why?
WHY????
That 3 letter word seems to flood my thoughts quite a bit these days. While talking to my friend a few days ago i mentioned that "why" is the prevailing question to God in the recent days and she responded "don't ask God, Why?, ask Him, What?" She stated that I should be asking Him "what are you trying to teach me?". So that is what I am trying to do. It is definitely hard because I want to know why. On this side of heaven I may never know the answers i seek but I have my ideas and I am going to continue to try to find the blessings and lessons in everyday.
Today it occurs to me that so many aspects of our life quite possibly could be dramatically different had we never moved from Miami 6 years ago. Our move to Clearwater changed our family forever (at least this is what I truly believe). We attended a church that was pastored by a wise, godly man that God used to impact the coach and me forever. i believe that the time spent in that church, school and city changed us. We grew spiritually (I know i did), our friendships grew, our way of handling money changed and my appreciation for Florida and all it has to offer certainly changed. I don't know in what way our family impacted those we came in contact with but I certainly know that we were IMPACTED greatly. I would NOT have my sewing biz and most certainly not my digitizing biz. My biz was an answer to prayer. It has been the means to which our family has been able to do and experience many things that otherwise we would not have be able to. Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined that i would be doing what I do. I am thankful for the Lord's blessing and pray that He continues to bless our family by means of our biz.
Our move from Clearwater to NC was a hard one in some ways and amazing in others. We were thankful for the great opportunity to attend (my children) and work (coach) at an amazing Christian School. NRCA is like none other that i have ever seen. The Lord has blessed the school with phenomenal facilities. It is a convenant school that partners with parents to guide the students in the ways of the Lord. I am so thankful for the 2 years that my children have been able to experience this amazing place. We have learned what it means to be humble (coach did in his first year as an assistant) although be humble seemed to come easy to him. I on the other hand had to learn from him. I have had the opportunity to live in my dream home (size and space) even if it was only for a year. I may never have that opportunity again. I would love to have this amount of space again but If I never do then life will go on and I am thankful for the time I did have.
(this post was never finished and since then so much has changed. today is march 13. I have decided not to finish this post but wanted to post it so that i can remember what i was feeling during this time)
That 3 letter word seems to flood my thoughts quite a bit these days. While talking to my friend a few days ago i mentioned that "why" is the prevailing question to God in the recent days and she responded "don't ask God, Why?, ask Him, What?" She stated that I should be asking Him "what are you trying to teach me?". So that is what I am trying to do. It is definitely hard because I want to know why. On this side of heaven I may never know the answers i seek but I have my ideas and I am going to continue to try to find the blessings and lessons in everyday.
Today it occurs to me that so many aspects of our life quite possibly could be dramatically different had we never moved from Miami 6 years ago. Our move to Clearwater changed our family forever (at least this is what I truly believe). We attended a church that was pastored by a wise, godly man that God used to impact the coach and me forever. i believe that the time spent in that church, school and city changed us. We grew spiritually (I know i did), our friendships grew, our way of handling money changed and my appreciation for Florida and all it has to offer certainly changed. I don't know in what way our family impacted those we came in contact with but I certainly know that we were IMPACTED greatly. I would NOT have my sewing biz and most certainly not my digitizing biz. My biz was an answer to prayer. It has been the means to which our family has been able to do and experience many things that otherwise we would not have be able to. Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined that i would be doing what I do. I am thankful for the Lord's blessing and pray that He continues to bless our family by means of our biz.
Our move from Clearwater to NC was a hard one in some ways and amazing in others. We were thankful for the great opportunity to attend (my children) and work (coach) at an amazing Christian School. NRCA is like none other that i have ever seen. The Lord has blessed the school with phenomenal facilities. It is a convenant school that partners with parents to guide the students in the ways of the Lord. I am so thankful for the 2 years that my children have been able to experience this amazing place. We have learned what it means to be humble (coach did in his first year as an assistant) although be humble seemed to come easy to him. I on the other hand had to learn from him. I have had the opportunity to live in my dream home (size and space) even if it was only for a year. I may never have that opportunity again. I would love to have this amount of space again but If I never do then life will go on and I am thankful for the time I did have.
(this post was never finished and since then so much has changed. today is march 13. I have decided not to finish this post but wanted to post it so that i can remember what i was feeling during this time)
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
I am getting a little excited!!! (sort of)
I am actually getting excited about some aspects of moving to Miami. While watching Color Splash Miami with David Bromstad today I heard the Spanish music playing in the background in between scenes and saw some historic places, furniture stores i have visited in the past and actually got excited. I don't know what our future housing situation looks like but I pray that the Lord provides us with a house that has good bones, that is open (or that i have the funds and creativity to open up), that is on a nice street with some trees and that I can infuse my taste and design desires into.
I am excited about teaching my kids about my Cuban heritage and exposing them to the culture in Miami while still endeavoring to raise godly children that can impact their community.
today's verse to hang on to and live day by day, today is:
Isaiah 41:13
New Living Translation (©2007)
For I hold you by your right hand--I, the LORD your God. And I say to you, 'Don't be afraid. I am here to help you.
Matthew 14:30
But when he (Peter) saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted.
Peter looked around at his circumstances and was afraid and began to sink. When he focused on Jesus (he had faith) he was able to walk on water.
Lord help me today to walk in faith by keeping my eyes on YOU and not my surroundings and circumstances.
I am excited about teaching my kids about my Cuban heritage and exposing them to the culture in Miami while still endeavoring to raise godly children that can impact their community.
today's verse to hang on to and live day by day, today is:
Isaiah 41:13
New Living Translation (©2007)
For I hold you by your right hand--I, the LORD your God. And I say to you, 'Don't be afraid. I am here to help you.
Matthew 14:30
But when he (Peter) saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted.
Peter looked around at his circumstances and was afraid and began to sink. When he focused on Jesus (he had faith) he was able to walk on water.
Lord help me today to walk in faith by keeping my eyes on YOU and not my surroundings and circumstances.
Monday, February 13, 2012
My hope is in you Lord!
Last Wednesday I missed a phone call because I was on a special field trip to Kanki with my youngest daughter. I truly enjoy that field trip because I love hibachi cooked food, she loves the show and we both love spending time together. When i called back the person on the other end proceeded to inquire about the house we are selling. This very pleasant gentleman was sent by the Lord to encourage me and give me hope. Just 2 days prior i had been completely emotionally drained, only 1 day before i watched as the couple i thought would make an offer on our house, completed the inspection on the home 2 doors down that they did actually make an offer to buy. Now, here i am speaking to a man who has no idea our circumstances, has no idea that we are Christians and that we felt lead to follow the Lords call back to Miami and has no idea the emotional roller exhaustion that i recently encountered. In speaking to the man i state that we only have lived in this home approximately 7 months and that we had no idea that we would move so soon but had we known we definitely would not have bought when we did, however plans change and it is what it is. He then says "its timing, it's timing, it sounds like you are being led. I will just say that." I am thinking "WHAT! how do you know that?", I haven't mentioned God, Him calling us or anything else. How in the world does he know we are being led. at that point i say "well actually, We have been called by God to go back to Miami and so that is what we are doing." He says, "And who are we to question the almighty God".
He was an encouragment and I feel the Lord sent him just to give me hope. I don't know if they will buy the house or not (they did come by and see it on Saturday 2/11) but I know that the Lord hasn't forgotten us. We may sell the house and we may not. Maybe it is his plan that we simply rent it I have to believe walk in faith knowing that He will take care of us. He knows my desire and if my desire isn't in line with his plans then my prayer is that He change my desire to sell this house.
Not knowing what will happen with this home in NC leaves me in limbo about our housing situation in Miami. We certainly can't buy a home if we don't sell this one so looking at the inventory available is useless at this point. I don't feel like renting is a viable option because rent is so high (i can buy cheaper than i can rent of course can't buy if i don't have a down payment- its quite the problem) and the reality is that what is on the market to rent today probably won't be there once we move. I have tossed around the option of buying a 2 bedroom condo but that will be really tight for 5 of us. I don't know and can't possibly know what things will look like in 5 months but I am trying to be patient and wait on the Lord. I am praying for faith and peace.
In the meanwhile i will continue to try to sell our big items on craigslist. Since i don't know where we will end up living I feel like the less "stuff" that we have the more options that we will be able to consider when making our decisions for housing.
I had a dream last night that we were buying a house in our old neighborhood in Miami. Its not a bad neighborhood but after living in clearwater and NC my expectations of neighborhoods and house have changed. I just don't look at Miami that same way. If we had greater resources (don't get me wrong the Lord has blessed us over and abundantly what i could ask for) then we could live in some prime areas and my visual issues would not be a problem but since we are average middle class people our choices in Miami are what they are.
I struggle and constantly ask God "Why?" but i don't know if i will get an answer to that. I am thankful for the time and the experiences that we have had outside of Miami the last 6 years and I pray that those things we have learned and experienced will be forever ingrained in my family.
For now I will continue to pray and wait.
He was an encouragment and I feel the Lord sent him just to give me hope. I don't know if they will buy the house or not (they did come by and see it on Saturday 2/11) but I know that the Lord hasn't forgotten us. We may sell the house and we may not. Maybe it is his plan that we simply rent it I have to believe walk in faith knowing that He will take care of us. He knows my desire and if my desire isn't in line with his plans then my prayer is that He change my desire to sell this house.
Not knowing what will happen with this home in NC leaves me in limbo about our housing situation in Miami. We certainly can't buy a home if we don't sell this one so looking at the inventory available is useless at this point. I don't feel like renting is a viable option because rent is so high (i can buy cheaper than i can rent of course can't buy if i don't have a down payment- its quite the problem) and the reality is that what is on the market to rent today probably won't be there once we move. I have tossed around the option of buying a 2 bedroom condo but that will be really tight for 5 of us. I don't know and can't possibly know what things will look like in 5 months but I am trying to be patient and wait on the Lord. I am praying for faith and peace.
In the meanwhile i will continue to try to sell our big items on craigslist. Since i don't know where we will end up living I feel like the less "stuff" that we have the more options that we will be able to consider when making our decisions for housing.
I had a dream last night that we were buying a house in our old neighborhood in Miami. Its not a bad neighborhood but after living in clearwater and NC my expectations of neighborhoods and house have changed. I just don't look at Miami that same way. If we had greater resources (don't get me wrong the Lord has blessed us over and abundantly what i could ask for) then we could live in some prime areas and my visual issues would not be a problem but since we are average middle class people our choices in Miami are what they are.
I struggle and constantly ask God "Why?" but i don't know if i will get an answer to that. I am thankful for the time and the experiences that we have had outside of Miami the last 6 years and I pray that those things we have learned and experienced will be forever ingrained in my family.
For now I will continue to pray and wait.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
It never ceases to amaze me how the Lord speak to me with just the words I need to hear. Yesterday was a rough day. For some reason i woke up at 3am and was unable to get back to sleep. Needless to say i was physically exhausted by the time the afternoon rolled around. I was emotionally drained because the buyers I had hoped would put a contract in on our home chose the the house 2 doors down. By the time evening rolled around I was ready to sink in my bed and forget the day. I retreated to my bedroom at 8:15 and watched a little HGTV (probably not great to watch since i can't do anything to this house and i don't have a house in Miami to dream about doing anything to).
I woke up this morning rested and ready to conquer the day. wouldn't you know it- the Lord had something to tell me. However, the words that He gave me would not have resonated had i not been emotional and physically drained. The emotions and exhaustion i felt yesterday are still so fresh in my mind that the words pierced and hit right where i needed them to renew me.
I usually read my two year Bible and then I read Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. WELL today's devotional was Come to Me for Rest. I litteraly weeped as I read through it. the verses that it referenced were
Psalms 42:11
New International Version (©1984)
Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
GOD'S WORD® Translation (©1995)
Why are you discouraged, my soul? Why are you so restless? Put your hope in God, because I will still praise him. He is my savior and my God.
and
Romans 8:28
New International Version (©1984)
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
28We are assured and know that [[a]God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose.
God used the devotional writing itself spoke volumes to me. these are the things that stood out to me.
So today I committed (as i will probably will have to do everyday) that i will not worry about the sale of the house (As i did yesterday-so much so that it exhausted me emotionally). We are following Gods calling for our family and I will Hope in the Lord, for I will again praise Him for the help of His presence.
Lord your will be done. Thank you for knowing me so well and providing just the words i need to bring me comfort.
I woke up this morning rested and ready to conquer the day. wouldn't you know it- the Lord had something to tell me. However, the words that He gave me would not have resonated had i not been emotional and physically drained. The emotions and exhaustion i felt yesterday are still so fresh in my mind that the words pierced and hit right where i needed them to renew me.
I usually read my two year Bible and then I read Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. WELL today's devotional was Come to Me for Rest. I litteraly weeped as I read through it. the verses that it referenced were
Psalms 42:11
New International Version (©1984)
Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
GOD'S WORD® Translation (©1995)
Why are you discouraged, my soul? Why are you so restless? Put your hope in God, because I will still praise him. He is my savior and my God.
and
Romans 8:28
New International Version (©1984)
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Amplified Bible (AMP)
God used the devotional writing itself spoke volumes to me. these are the things that stood out to me.
- "The journey has been too much for you , and you are bone-weary"
- "Remember the I can fit everything into a pattern for good , including the things that you wish were different."
- "Start with where you are at this point in time and space, accepting that this is where i intend you to be."
- "Let Me guide you through the many choices along your pathway."
- "You are on the path of my choosing, so do not give up!"
So today I committed (as i will probably will have to do everyday) that i will not worry about the sale of the house (As i did yesterday-so much so that it exhausted me emotionally). We are following Gods calling for our family and I will Hope in the Lord, for I will again praise Him for the help of His presence.
Lord your will be done. Thank you for knowing me so well and providing just the words i need to bring me comfort.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Wait on the LORD!!!
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Friday, January 27, 2012
I will sing praises about my husband (because he will not)
I am writing and documenting about our lives so that our children and grandchildren can see how Chris Rivera's life and love for the Lord impacted their future but most importantly I want them to have proof of God's blessings, promises, and provision in our lives.
As of now, no one (not my kids, husband or anyone else) knows that I am journaling on this blog but one day when the time is right I will let them know.
Coach - My husband, Daddy to our 3 kids is a wonderful man. I cannot express enough how blessed we are to have this man as the leader of our family. He has a servants heart and denies himself many a time just to please our kids and me. I witnessed my husband be a son unlike any other I have personally known. He cared for his bed ridden mother in our home for years. Her day to day care was quite extensive and exhausting yet he did it day in and day out with out even questioning it. He seeks to please God and follow what God leads him to do. He is diplomatic and has the gift to see things from a different perspective. When I am frustrated and on fire about something his level headed thinking brings me back to earth. He has the gift of discernment and for this I am very thankful because i don't think i do. I am thankful that he loves me even when i am unbearable. It takes a special man to put of with me and he does very happily. I love that he is decisive. When he makes a decision he never looks back (if he has prayed about it and sought God's blessing).
Once he accepted God's call on his life to Christian School ministry he spent many years coaching and working at his Alma Mater (head FB coach 1996-2005-assistant before that). After being gone for 6 years we are returning. As of August 2012 Chris will once again resume the duties of Head FB coach at FCS.
Press Release about his return: Miami Herald Press Release
2006-2009- Head V. FB Coach at Calvary Christian School in Clearwater. (we loved it there- what an awesome place). leaving clearwater was a tough call. so many great kids, parents and our pastor. When God calls we follow and that we did.
Press release about him leaving (newspaper didn't quite get the story correct but isn't that usually the case with the media) Tampa Bay Times Press Release
This was amazing- this was a blog post that our pastor wrote-Pastor Willy's Blog-Calvary Baptist Church-Calvary Christian High School
2010-2012- Assistant V coach 2010 (what a story behind that one- i need to document that one) and Head V. Coach 2012-
As of now, no one (not my kids, husband or anyone else) knows that I am journaling on this blog but one day when the time is right I will let them know.
Coach - My husband, Daddy to our 3 kids is a wonderful man. I cannot express enough how blessed we are to have this man as the leader of our family. He has a servants heart and denies himself many a time just to please our kids and me. I witnessed my husband be a son unlike any other I have personally known. He cared for his bed ridden mother in our home for years. Her day to day care was quite extensive and exhausting yet he did it day in and day out with out even questioning it. He seeks to please God and follow what God leads him to do. He is diplomatic and has the gift to see things from a different perspective. When I am frustrated and on fire about something his level headed thinking brings me back to earth. He has the gift of discernment and for this I am very thankful because i don't think i do. I am thankful that he loves me even when i am unbearable. It takes a special man to put of with me and he does very happily. I love that he is decisive. When he makes a decision he never looks back (if he has prayed about it and sought God's blessing).
Once he accepted God's call on his life to Christian School ministry he spent many years coaching and working at his Alma Mater (head FB coach 1996-2005-assistant before that). After being gone for 6 years we are returning. As of August 2012 Chris will once again resume the duties of Head FB coach at FCS.
Press Release about his return: Miami Herald Press Release
2006-2009- Head V. FB Coach at Calvary Christian School in Clearwater. (we loved it there- what an awesome place). leaving clearwater was a tough call. so many great kids, parents and our pastor. When God calls we follow and that we did.
Press release about him leaving (newspaper didn't quite get the story correct but isn't that usually the case with the media) Tampa Bay Times Press Release
This was amazing- this was a blog post that our pastor wrote-Pastor Willy's Blog-Calvary Baptist Church-Calvary Christian High School
2010-2012- Assistant V coach 2010 (what a story behind that one- i need to document that one) and Head V. Coach 2012-
I will praise the Lord at all times
Psalms 34:1
I will praise the Lord at all times, I will constantly speak his praises.
I am committing this verse to memories. I don't know what the future holds for us but undoubtedly there will be some tough times ahead, perhaps tough only to me (such as my housing situation) but now doubt real in my mind. I know that i will be frustrated with traffic and the lifestyle adaptions we will be making as we move back to South Florida. Despite my mood on any particular day when things are going such as i would like I WILL commit to praise the Lord. There is always something that I can praise Him for. He has blessed us above and beyond what i could ever imagine. I have a wonderful husband and healthy children and that alone is a blessing that is immeasurable.
Today I am committing not to make comments on the fly to my husband or anyone else about the sale of our current home and our future living accommodations. Be the situation what it may, I know the Lord is in control. I pray that my desires are in line with His will but if they aren't then in due time He will advise me so and I will adjust.
Today I will, "consider the promises God has fulfilled in the past and the promises
that He will fulfill in the future. (I WILL) Choose to live out these words: “I will praise the
Lord at all times. I will constantly speak His praises” (Psalm 34:1). " GOD TUBE JAN.27, 2012.
I am very excited to see what the Lord has in store. My husband is a Godly man that seeks to do what God wants. I know his words and actions have the ability to impact young lives for Christ.
I will praise the Lord at all times, I will constantly speak his praises.
I am committing this verse to memories. I don't know what the future holds for us but undoubtedly there will be some tough times ahead, perhaps tough only to me (such as my housing situation) but now doubt real in my mind. I know that i will be frustrated with traffic and the lifestyle adaptions we will be making as we move back to South Florida. Despite my mood on any particular day when things are going such as i would like I WILL commit to praise the Lord. There is always something that I can praise Him for. He has blessed us above and beyond what i could ever imagine. I have a wonderful husband and healthy children and that alone is a blessing that is immeasurable.
Today I am committing not to make comments on the fly to my husband or anyone else about the sale of our current home and our future living accommodations. Be the situation what it may, I know the Lord is in control. I pray that my desires are in line with His will but if they aren't then in due time He will advise me so and I will adjust.
Today I will, "consider the promises God has fulfilled in the past and the promises
that He will fulfill in the future. (I WILL) Choose to live out these words: “I will praise the
Lord at all times. I will constantly speak His praises” (Psalm 34:1). " GOD TUBE JAN.27, 2012.
I am very excited to see what the Lord has in store. My husband is a Godly man that seeks to do what God wants. I know his words and actions have the ability to impact young lives for Christ.
Trust in the Lord- Its final- we are going back to Miami
Proverbs 3:5-6- " In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path"
We are trusting the Lord as He leads us down this path, as we begin the new journey He has mapped out for us. There are a few unsettling things about this calling. My 1st concern was my kids growing up in Miami. I am comfortable with our current situation and the idea that NC is a more wholesome, godly place to raise a family. while that may be true the fact is that sin is everywhere and my kids are never far from the devils scheme. Miami may have more temptations but the fact remains that nothing is to big for God. He will protect, guide and care for my children. We will bathe our children in prayer and we will parent them the best that we know how while trying to teach them and instill in them a love for the Lord. My challenge will be to impress the Word of the Lord in their hearts. I will commit to doing so daily.
Deuteronomy 6:6-9
6And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:
7And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
8And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.
9And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.New International Version (©1984)
vs. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.
New Living Translation (©2007)
vs. 7 Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up
My commitment is to talk (and live so that they see not just hear) about the Lord and ALL THE TIME. My children will know that God loves them, protects them and that He is the only reason that we live. He is our hope, our salvation, and our deliverer. I know my kids know all of this already. They know Jesus died to pay a price that only He could pay and we on our own could never attain that relationship and eternal life with our Heavenly Father. BUT I want them to live it day in and day out.
What i struggle with today is lack of faith in the sale of our home. I guess i don't want to be disappointed if the house doesn't sell or if we lose money in the sale so instead of having Faith and believing that God will take care of this , i just sit around and worry. I am afraid that His answer to my prayers about selling the house may be that we will lose money or it will sit on the market for a long period of time. I understand that its His timing that matters and while i may want something else He may have a different plan. That is what scares me. I am praying that Lord grant the desires of my heart when it comes to the sale of the house. I know what ever He has planned will be for His glory and will further His kingdom if I just submit to His will. So this I will try.
I am struggling knowing that we will move from my 3500sf, spacious "dream home" to a home that is quite possibly half the size and will cost us more than the current dream home in which we reside. I am trying to let go and roll with it but this is definitely something that i have to turn over to the Lord. He is moving us and I know He has great plans for our family. Some of those plans may not be everything that I would have planned but never the less they are plans that will glorify Him in the end. with that being said i wanted to document everything i love about my house. my prayer is that i will look back at this post one day and see that the Lord has blessed me once again with all these things that i desire in my home.
1. Space, space, space (3500 sf of very well planned space).
Bonus room: we have a bonus room (play room, TV room, hang out room, would have been the teenager hang out space if we had stayed here long enough). The picture below are the builders pictures. i will post a picture with my furniture very soon.
kitchen: spacious kitchen with more cabinets than i have things to store. I love my gas range, double ovens, LARGE island, the work desk, eat in kitchen, large pantry, I LOVE MY KITCHEN.
Family Room: love the size of the room, love that it has a fire place (which i know i wont need in Miami but its a great place to hang our stockings) and High ceilings. I love high ceilings, i t make the space feel so much bigger. our family room has 10ft ceilings the rest of the downstairs only has 9ft ceilings but since i was used to older homes with 8 foot ceilings It was perfect for me.
Living room: our living room is empty so i don't really care if i have it or not its just nice to have that extra room because it makes the house feel larger.
Dining room: large dining room. i love that i would have been able to host big family dinners.
5 bedrooms: i love that 5th bedroom, i use it as my work room (i have to have some type of work space and that room with a closet has been soooo NICE). i have decent size master bedroom with a sitting room. i like the sitting room but realistically i haven't used it once since we moved in. i would be fine with a large master bedroom that can house a chair and all my furniture. the kids have good size rooms (not large but not small, except kayla), Kay has a nice size room with her own bathroom and high enough ceilings that we were able to install a chandelier as she desired. LOVE her room (although for some reason it doesn't cool and heat very well).
4 bathrooms: 4 bathrooms have been great. love that the kids can all shower at the same time and not sit around waiting for the previous showeree to get out.
kids in the neighborhood: my son has had so much fun with the 3 boys that live in the cul de sac (and many others in the neighborhood).
spacious laundry room - i like my space since i am in there every day, love the hardwood floors , Love my front porch but i can live with out it if i had to. I used it in the spring and early summer but what i really like about it is the look it gives to the house. love my 2 car garage (sounds silly but older homes in Miami don't have a garage), great closet space throughout the house.
what don't i like? i don't like all the trees in the back (it looks to natural- i like a manicured look)but i do like trees, i would like a bigger usable backyard, a pool is great (salt system), don't like carpet in the living or family room. wish i had a mudroom.
That's what is running through my mind today.
We are trusting the Lord as He leads us down this path, as we begin the new journey He has mapped out for us. There are a few unsettling things about this calling. My 1st concern was my kids growing up in Miami. I am comfortable with our current situation and the idea that NC is a more wholesome, godly place to raise a family. while that may be true the fact is that sin is everywhere and my kids are never far from the devils scheme. Miami may have more temptations but the fact remains that nothing is to big for God. He will protect, guide and care for my children. We will bathe our children in prayer and we will parent them the best that we know how while trying to teach them and instill in them a love for the Lord. My challenge will be to impress the Word of the Lord in their hearts. I will commit to doing so daily.
Deuteronomy 6:6-9
King James Version (KJV)
6And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:
7And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
8And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.
9And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.
vs. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.
New Living Translation (©2007)
vs. 7 Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up
My commitment is to talk (and live so that they see not just hear) about the Lord and ALL THE TIME. My children will know that God loves them, protects them and that He is the only reason that we live. He is our hope, our salvation, and our deliverer. I know my kids know all of this already. They know Jesus died to pay a price that only He could pay and we on our own could never attain that relationship and eternal life with our Heavenly Father. BUT I want them to live it day in and day out.
What i struggle with today is lack of faith in the sale of our home. I guess i don't want to be disappointed if the house doesn't sell or if we lose money in the sale so instead of having Faith and believing that God will take care of this , i just sit around and worry. I am afraid that His answer to my prayers about selling the house may be that we will lose money or it will sit on the market for a long period of time. I understand that its His timing that matters and while i may want something else He may have a different plan. That is what scares me. I am praying that Lord grant the desires of my heart when it comes to the sale of the house. I know what ever He has planned will be for His glory and will further His kingdom if I just submit to His will. So this I will try.
I am struggling knowing that we will move from my 3500sf, spacious "dream home" to a home that is quite possibly half the size and will cost us more than the current dream home in which we reside. I am trying to let go and roll with it but this is definitely something that i have to turn over to the Lord. He is moving us and I know He has great plans for our family. Some of those plans may not be everything that I would have planned but never the less they are plans that will glorify Him in the end. with that being said i wanted to document everything i love about my house. my prayer is that i will look back at this post one day and see that the Lord has blessed me once again with all these things that i desire in my home.
1. Space, space, space (3500 sf of very well planned space).
Bonus room: we have a bonus room (play room, TV room, hang out room, would have been the teenager hang out space if we had stayed here long enough). The picture below are the builders pictures. i will post a picture with my furniture very soon.
kitchen: spacious kitchen with more cabinets than i have things to store. I love my gas range, double ovens, LARGE island, the work desk, eat in kitchen, large pantry, I LOVE MY KITCHEN.
Living room: our living room is empty so i don't really care if i have it or not its just nice to have that extra room because it makes the house feel larger.
Dining room: large dining room. i love that i would have been able to host big family dinners.
5 bedrooms: i love that 5th bedroom, i use it as my work room (i have to have some type of work space and that room with a closet has been soooo NICE). i have decent size master bedroom with a sitting room. i like the sitting room but realistically i haven't used it once since we moved in. i would be fine with a large master bedroom that can house a chair and all my furniture. the kids have good size rooms (not large but not small, except kayla), Kay has a nice size room with her own bathroom and high enough ceilings that we were able to install a chandelier as she desired. LOVE her room (although for some reason it doesn't cool and heat very well).
4 bathrooms: 4 bathrooms have been great. love that the kids can all shower at the same time and not sit around waiting for the previous showeree to get out.
kids in the neighborhood: my son has had so much fun with the 3 boys that live in the cul de sac (and many others in the neighborhood).
spacious laundry room - i like my space since i am in there every day, love the hardwood floors , Love my front porch but i can live with out it if i had to. I used it in the spring and early summer but what i really like about it is the look it gives to the house. love my 2 car garage (sounds silly but older homes in Miami don't have a garage), great closet space throughout the house.
what don't i like? i don't like all the trees in the back (it looks to natural- i like a manicured look)but i do like trees, i would like a bigger usable backyard, a pool is great (salt system), don't like carpet in the living or family room. wish i had a mudroom.
That's what is running through my mind today.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Be anxious for nothing-Phil 4:6
We continue to pray for guidance and clarity as God opens these unexpected doors. It looks like Miami is going to be part of our future. We had our dear friends over last night so that we could break the news to them. This was an emotional conversation as they are the couple that has made our time in Raleigh and the transition for our family the smoothest. He is also the Athletic Director at the school which was another reason that we wanted to tell them before we told anyone else (such as the administrator). As much as they would like us to stay I think they understood. My heart is pained for them because now the search for a new football coach begins. I know God has the perfect person for His perfect plan already lined up.
I continue to battle my faithless thoughts and anxiety. I am so very ANXIOUS about the sale of our home and the search for a new home. I won't even bother to look for a home in Miami until we sell our current home. I would love to be able to begin the search but since to date we haven't won the lottery (we don't play - so the chances are slim to NONE) that isn't even an option.
so for today this is my prayer: Philippians 4:6
New International Version (©1984)
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
New Living Translation (©2007)
Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
English Standard Version (©2001)
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
New American Standard Bible (©1995)
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
International Standard Version (©2008)
Never worry about anything. Instead, in every situation let your petitions be made known to God through prayers and requests, with thanksgiving.
Aramaic Bible in Plain English (©2010)
Do not be worried for anything, but always in prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be known before God,
GOD'S WORD® Translation (©1995)
Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks.
King James 2000 Bible (©2003)
Be anxious for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
OK So there it is in various translations.
Lord, I am asking for your guidance and your peace. Please, allow this home to sell quickly and at the price that our family needs to break even. (if we made a little on it that would be great too).
I continue to battle my faithless thoughts and anxiety. I am so very ANXIOUS about the sale of our home and the search for a new home. I won't even bother to look for a home in Miami until we sell our current home. I would love to be able to begin the search but since to date we haven't won the lottery (we don't play - so the chances are slim to NONE) that isn't even an option.
so for today this is my prayer: Philippians 4:6
New International Version (©1984)
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
New Living Translation (©2007)
Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
English Standard Version (©2001)
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
New American Standard Bible (©1995)
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
International Standard Version (©2008)
Never worry about anything. Instead, in every situation let your petitions be made known to God through prayers and requests, with thanksgiving.
Aramaic Bible in Plain English (©2010)
Do not be worried for anything, but always in prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be known before God,
GOD'S WORD® Translation (©1995)
Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks.
King James 2000 Bible (©2003)
Be anxious for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
OK So there it is in various translations.
Lord, I am asking for your guidance and your peace. Please, allow this home to sell quickly and at the price that our family needs to break even. (if we made a little on it that would be great too).
Sunday, January 8, 2012
It looks like we are going
They sent coach a proposal and after much prayer and speaking with the headmaster coach feels led to go back to our roots. We can't completely understand what God has been doing in our lives over the last 6 years. Its hard to see all of His plan and it has not yet been completely unfolded for us. We wonder why He called us to move since we are coming full circle and going back to Miami . We do see all the benefits such as spiritual growth, great friends, experiences my kids have had and the dream life that we experienced in Clearwater, Our time in NC is still a mystery. Despite all of these unknowns I know our family is a different unite because of our moves. So now the next chapter begins. It isn't formally final but verbally it is. I have come to grips with the new life that we will begin in approximately 5 months. I am overjoyed to be with family and friends once again.
My prayer is that we will stand firm in the Word and not let the black and white things become grey . In a city that was very recently proclaimed the most VAIN city in the country the concerns for raising my family there are great. I am concerned with the materialism (which is everywhere, I know), the immodest dress, the social lifestyles that many partake in (south beach is an enticing place if you aren't grounded and in the Word), and the desensitisation to the things of the Lord. While these things are quite heavy on my heart I know my God is bigger than all those things. My prayer is that I will learn to live on my knees in supplication to the Lord for my children, their souls and their lives. I pray that the Lord with use them in mighty ways to further His kingdom. More importantly I pray that they would walk in the ways of the Lord and be open and the Lord's calling on their life. His calling to walk the straight and narrow, to be faithful, to love Him more than anything else. I know that they will make mistakes but may they always be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's conviction and leading.
For now I will begin preparing our home to sell and begin listing all of our furniture on craigslist. Last time we moved I promised that if I ever moved again i would sell EVERYTHING (at least everything that I don't absolutely LOVE). I like everything in my house but don't have sentimental attachment or LOVE very many things so rather than taking it with me I would rather shed it and buy new things at a later time.
This new journey begins and the process over the next months, I believe will be the ones that will require the most faith (selling the house, telling those we have bonded with in NC that we are leaving, once we sell-
searching for a new place to live that is in our price range and that accommodates our family of 5 in a city with a higher cost of living.
God is good and all will work out.
My prayer is that we will stand firm in the Word and not let the black and white things become grey . In a city that was very recently proclaimed the most VAIN city in the country the concerns for raising my family there are great. I am concerned with the materialism (which is everywhere, I know), the immodest dress, the social lifestyles that many partake in (south beach is an enticing place if you aren't grounded and in the Word), and the desensitisation to the things of the Lord. While these things are quite heavy on my heart I know my God is bigger than all those things. My prayer is that I will learn to live on my knees in supplication to the Lord for my children, their souls and their lives. I pray that the Lord with use them in mighty ways to further His kingdom. More importantly I pray that they would walk in the ways of the Lord and be open and the Lord's calling on their life. His calling to walk the straight and narrow, to be faithful, to love Him more than anything else. I know that they will make mistakes but may they always be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's conviction and leading.
For now I will begin preparing our home to sell and begin listing all of our furniture on craigslist. Last time we moved I promised that if I ever moved again i would sell EVERYTHING (at least everything that I don't absolutely LOVE). I like everything in my house but don't have sentimental attachment or LOVE very many things so rather than taking it with me I would rather shed it and buy new things at a later time.
This new journey begins and the process over the next months, I believe will be the ones that will require the most faith (selling the house, telling those we have bonded with in NC that we are leaving, once we sell-
searching for a new place to live that is in our price range and that accommodates our family of 5 in a city with a higher cost of living.
God is good and all will work out.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Where to begin?
It seems just as I am settled in my spirit, mind and body the Lord stirs things up for our family. Where to begin? Lets start from the beginning in the most concise way that i can. We (my husband and I) are born and raised Miami, Fl natives. The Lord moved us to Cleawater, Fl in 2006. Those were the best years of our married life by far. We made great friends, were active in a wonderful church, we bought a boat and enjoyed the Florida gulf coast water, sun and air, we built a pool, completely renovated our home, taught our children to ride their bikes, grew as a family and most importantly my husband and I grew in the Lord in ways that we know would have never taken place had we stayed in Miami. After 4 years of a dream life the Lord once again called us to pick up and move. this move was a heart wrenching one. We left behind great friends and took only the memories with us that to this day have not been matched. We are now in our 2nd year at a great Christian School (my husband teaches and coaches) and have adjusted somewhat to our new lives in Raleigh, NC.
Our first year hear had some ups and downs and great emotions to work through. However, God is faithful and He worked out so many of those things. Several months ago I realized that I needed to enjoy and cherish every day her in NC. I came that conclusion as i thought back on my time in Clearwater. I loved and enjoyed Clearwater and had i known that the Lord would move us i think I would have savoured every moment I had there even more. That leads me to my thoughts a few months ago. My conclusion was that since i didn't know what God had in store for our family in the future i should really just enjoy what i have been given today. At that point i stopped thinking and lamenting over the Friends i left behind ( and the friends that i didn't have here in NC), the beautiful gulf coast and breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, Our home (which we still own), our church and our once was dream life and take hold of TODAY. God had given our family the opportunity to see and experience things here that were not available to us in Florida. Mountains. cold weather during the Christmas Holidays, southern charm, wreaths on every window during Christmas holidays, 4 hour drive to DC, 2 hour drive to the beach, 2 hour drive to the mountains (we can go anywhere in just a few hours), dream home (in reference to space/size), a wholesome environment for my children, great school with all the bells and whistles, beautiful trees and flowers in the spring (not just palm trees), kids can run around the neighborhood with their friends and play in the woods.
Now here is the twist, just as soon as i give in and let go and find contentment God throws a twist in the plot. I have always said that I had no desire to live in South Florida ever again (clearwater, any day- Miami, NOWAY). My husband on the other hand truly has always believed (since the day we left Miami) that we would one day return. He coached and worked at his high school Alma mater for 16 years. His heart is with that ministry. Since our South Florida exodus in 2006 a week hasn't passed by that he hasn't checked the Miami herald to keep up with the sports scores, he loves that ministry and prays for it continuously. He is a Florida guy at heart and there are aspects of Miami he loves and misses. For our family sake he puts those desires aside. WE have always felt that Miami is tough place to raised kids. So in comes the wrench- a couple of weeks ago the head master from our school in Miami called my husband. Let me add that this man is one of my husbands mentors, he was his HS football coach and later his boss. We love his family as if the were our own. We (i used to teach there also) have never worked for such a Godly, wise, strong leader such as this man. We can stand behind him and believe in what he does. God has used him to grow that school over that last several decades. Ok sooo back to the point. He called my husband to see if was interested in returning to Miami to work/coach at the school again. My heart sank. I have such mixed emotions. We love so many people there. We have such grand friends and most importantly my family is there. It is the place of our birth and our children's. BUT IT SCARES ME TO DEATH. I am scared for my children, I am scared because we just bought a home (in April- 8 months ago). Those are the 2 things that scare me the most. I know raising children is hard anywhere but Miami is so worldly, materialistic, and immodest. We already own a home in clearwater, Fl that we rent out, we CANNOT own a house in NC also. We just wouldn't be able to do it financially. So all that being said, no decision has been made or even considered. at this point we are simply praying and seeking Gods wisdom, guidance and ultimately his will. My prayer is that He would speak loud and clear, that there would be no mistake in us listening and hearing what he is calling us to do.
Answer to fear number 1- it doesn't matter where we live, where the kids go to school or anything else as long as we are raising them in the Lord. God is bigger than all of our surroundings. I have to trust Him to take care of them, mold them and bless them. The biggest influencing factor in my children's life is MOM and DAD not Miami.
So today , "Lord, show me how to pray for my children, how to raise them, love them, encourage them and most importantly how to walk in Your ways. May my life be a testimony."
Our first year hear had some ups and downs and great emotions to work through. However, God is faithful and He worked out so many of those things. Several months ago I realized that I needed to enjoy and cherish every day her in NC. I came that conclusion as i thought back on my time in Clearwater. I loved and enjoyed Clearwater and had i known that the Lord would move us i think I would have savoured every moment I had there even more. That leads me to my thoughts a few months ago. My conclusion was that since i didn't know what God had in store for our family in the future i should really just enjoy what i have been given today. At that point i stopped thinking and lamenting over the Friends i left behind ( and the friends that i didn't have here in NC), the beautiful gulf coast and breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, Our home (which we still own), our church and our once was dream life and take hold of TODAY. God had given our family the opportunity to see and experience things here that were not available to us in Florida. Mountains. cold weather during the Christmas Holidays, southern charm, wreaths on every window during Christmas holidays, 4 hour drive to DC, 2 hour drive to the beach, 2 hour drive to the mountains (we can go anywhere in just a few hours), dream home (in reference to space/size), a wholesome environment for my children, great school with all the bells and whistles, beautiful trees and flowers in the spring (not just palm trees), kids can run around the neighborhood with their friends and play in the woods.
Now here is the twist, just as soon as i give in and let go and find contentment God throws a twist in the plot. I have always said that I had no desire to live in South Florida ever again (clearwater, any day- Miami, NOWAY). My husband on the other hand truly has always believed (since the day we left Miami) that we would one day return. He coached and worked at his high school Alma mater for 16 years. His heart is with that ministry. Since our South Florida exodus in 2006 a week hasn't passed by that he hasn't checked the Miami herald to keep up with the sports scores, he loves that ministry and prays for it continuously. He is a Florida guy at heart and there are aspects of Miami he loves and misses. For our family sake he puts those desires aside. WE have always felt that Miami is tough place to raised kids. So in comes the wrench- a couple of weeks ago the head master from our school in Miami called my husband. Let me add that this man is one of my husbands mentors, he was his HS football coach and later his boss. We love his family as if the were our own. We (i used to teach there also) have never worked for such a Godly, wise, strong leader such as this man. We can stand behind him and believe in what he does. God has used him to grow that school over that last several decades. Ok sooo back to the point. He called my husband to see if was interested in returning to Miami to work/coach at the school again. My heart sank. I have such mixed emotions. We love so many people there. We have such grand friends and most importantly my family is there. It is the place of our birth and our children's. BUT IT SCARES ME TO DEATH. I am scared for my children, I am scared because we just bought a home (in April- 8 months ago). Those are the 2 things that scare me the most. I know raising children is hard anywhere but Miami is so worldly, materialistic, and immodest. We already own a home in clearwater, Fl that we rent out, we CANNOT own a house in NC also. We just wouldn't be able to do it financially. So all that being said, no decision has been made or even considered. at this point we are simply praying and seeking Gods wisdom, guidance and ultimately his will. My prayer is that He would speak loud and clear, that there would be no mistake in us listening and hearing what he is calling us to do.
Answer to fear number 1- it doesn't matter where we live, where the kids go to school or anything else as long as we are raising them in the Lord. God is bigger than all of our surroundings. I have to trust Him to take care of them, mold them and bless them. The biggest influencing factor in my children's life is MOM and DAD not Miami.
So today , "Lord, show me how to pray for my children, how to raise them, love them, encourage them and most importantly how to walk in Your ways. May my life be a testimony."
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