Dear friends and family,
As I close my blog I wanted to say THANK YOU! Thank you to everyone who encouraged me, prayed for me, prayed for the Refuge for Women, and prayed for the ministry in Lexington that reaches out to the employees of the adult entertainment industry.
THANK YOU to everyone who supported financially. Your generosity helped raise 2,000 dollars for the Refuge for Women. To stay in the loop with all that God is doing to restore value to the women at the Refuge continue to check out their website www.refugeforwomen.org or find them on Face Book.
Sincerely,
Angie Purvis
Let's go for a run!
Monday, October 25, 2010
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
The race
This picture was taken at mile 1, fairly obvious by the smile on my face. Ha! It was an honor to run for the Refuge for Women. I'll be eternally grateful for the experience. I learned a lot throughout my training and during the race. This was only my second full marathon but I agree with Runner's World that the Towpath is the most beautiful. This next picture was around mile 14.
The fall leaves were breathtaking the weather was awesome. God is so sweet. He gives us things like trees with leaves that change colors to remind us that He's ALIVE. He is alive and He is the one who changes the leaves from green to yellow to orange to red to brown. I can't do that; so the fact that He can is pretty fascinating to me.
I'm looking forward to the Refuge for Women banquet tonight. It's their second annual event and I didn't get to go last year so I'm really excited to join tonight.
Everyone keeps asking so here it is....4:32 and the clock doesn't lie.... I didn't beat my time from my first full marathon but I did my very best. 4:32 is just a number like 26.2 neither of them define me. My Maker alone defines me.
Let's go for a run!..... You go for a run.... I'm going to sit down for a while. Who wants the baton? Sara, you want the baton? Shannon you want the baton? Jennifer you want the baton? Neile? Andrea? Sharon you want the baton? Who's it going to be?
Sunday, October 10, 2010
At the Race (Guest Blogger)
This is Derrick, the beloved husband of our favorite runner, Angie. So don't expect anything too insightful here.
Ang is probably on mile 7 or so right now. Things have been pretty crazy getting here. The dear little Subaru frowned upon our choice to drive it here yesterday. In retaliation it overheated on the way up. (prayers are appreciated for our journey home :) ) After the long journey, we had missed the cutoff for picking up Angie's packet. That's fairly important. It gives you your timing chip, bib number and goodies. After lots of drama and phone calls, we were able to get an answer. We could pick up the bib and chip in this morning. Whew!
Not until the numbers were pinned on her chest did we really believe it was going to happen. But, alas, she is on the path. So, obviously, it worked out.
This morning was cold, but we found warmth in a closed down ski lodge. The lines at the bathroom were amazing. I was sure there had to be something more than a toilet at the end. Were people seeing Sinatra in there? I can't think of another reason to wait in a line like that... other than seeing a dead crooner, of course.
Anyway, I digress. Ang has done great this morning. Her excitement is matched by her passion behind this race. As she runs, she prays for the Refuge. Each step is in dedication to those women who need Jesus.
Three-ish more hours to go. Let's get behind her in prayer.
Ang is probably on mile 7 or so right now. Things have been pretty crazy getting here. The dear little Subaru frowned upon our choice to drive it here yesterday. In retaliation it overheated on the way up. (prayers are appreciated for our journey home :) ) After the long journey, we had missed the cutoff for picking up Angie's packet. That's fairly important. It gives you your timing chip, bib number and goodies. After lots of drama and phone calls, we were able to get an answer. We could pick up the bib and chip in this morning. Whew!
Not until the numbers were pinned on her chest did we really believe it was going to happen. But, alas, she is on the path. So, obviously, it worked out.
This morning was cold, but we found warmth in a closed down ski lodge. The lines at the bathroom were amazing. I was sure there had to be something more than a toilet at the end. Were people seeing Sinatra in there? I can't think of another reason to wait in a line like that... other than seeing a dead crooner, of course.
Anyway, I digress. Ang has done great this morning. Her excitement is matched by her passion behind this race. As she runs, she prays for the Refuge. Each step is in dedication to those women who need Jesus.
Three-ish more hours to go. Let's get behind her in prayer.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
TOMORROW!!!
Sooooo..... the race is tomorrow. I'm really excited. It's kind if hard to believe I'm really going to do this. We're on the way to Cleveland OH. right now. The weather is supposed to be beautiful! in the mid 50's tomorrow morning and low 70's in the afternoon. I've been taking my friend's advice drinking a lot of water. The only bad thing about downing the water is that we're just a little north of Cincinnati and Iv'e made Der stop 3 times already so that I could use the rest room. My head is kind of spinning... I'm hoping that I didn't forget anything, that I don't cramp up or deal with knee pain and praying I don't sleep late like Jean-Paul Jean-Paul. It would be great if I could sleep tonight but not counting on it. I've run 2 mini's and 1 full and didn't sleep a wink the night before. I'm like a little kid on Christmas eve.
I've made my list of 26+++ friends to remember in prayer while I run. Some of them are at the Refuge for Women right now, many of my friends I'm running for are still in the strip clubs. I'll also be praising God for the consistently increasing number of FORMER club employees. I know I'll be thanking God for the inspiring woman who started the ministry in Lexington. We are so grateful for you and your story. Running to restore value..... what an honor.
1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last FOREVER. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not FIGHT like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
Let's go for a run!
Friday, October 8, 2010
Stinky
Yesterday I spent over 2 hours steam cleaning our carpet and rugs. Before you get impressed and think I keep a clean home you need to know it's ONLY because we're having some friends over. We are the dirty family. I've learned to accept that fact. If we were the clean family with three kids I would probably need to be locked up for neglect or child slave labor. I guess some of you with three kids maintain a healthy family unit AND keep a clean home but I just don't know how. Maybe you could give me some pointers. I really want to be a clean freak. A few months ago I had this really impressive streak of like 4 days IN A ROW that I intentionally tried to keep the house and even the van clean. The fourth day the whole family was riding along in the almost clean Astro van. I was so proud of myself I asked Der, "I know we have three kids and that may change your answer to this question but; do you think I'm a neat person or messy person?". He busted out laughing before he could even say one word; like it was a joke or something.... Dangit!!! Or as my daughter would say Bingit! It's kind of like wishing I could be a really stunning brunette and after dying my hair thinking, "it's just not me...but I wish it was.... I'm not an organized clean person.
Back to the carpet cleaning; as I was steaming one of our rugs the SMELL almost knock me down. It was the stinch of dirty wet dog, by the way we don't have a dog...../ urine/ vomit/ smorgasbord of rotten kids snacks/ ??????. I couldn't believe how disgusting it was. The most shocking thing was that to look at the rug it didn't even appear to be dirty. It didn't stink when I vacuumed it... As I was dumping the black water out of the bladder of the steam cleaner I considered just throwing the rug away. I filled it with clean water and began to go back over the rug one more time when I heard my Alter-Ego say,
"That rug and that black water is like your sin,"
'Not now, please leave me alone.', I thought to myself.
Out of curiosity I humbled myself enough to ponder the statement. The more I cleaned the rug the more I realized how filthy it was to begin with. Thank you Jesus for making us clean.
Let's go for a run!
Back to the carpet cleaning; as I was steaming one of our rugs the SMELL almost knock me down. It was the stinch of dirty wet dog, by the way we don't have a dog...../ urine/ vomit/ smorgasbord of rotten kids snacks/ ??????. I couldn't believe how disgusting it was. The most shocking thing was that to look at the rug it didn't even appear to be dirty. It didn't stink when I vacuumed it... As I was dumping the black water out of the bladder of the steam cleaner I considered just throwing the rug away. I filled it with clean water and began to go back over the rug one more time when I heard my Alter-Ego say,
"That rug and that black water is like your sin,"
'Not now, please leave me alone.', I thought to myself.
Out of curiosity I humbled myself enough to ponder the statement. The more I cleaned the rug the more I realized how filthy it was to begin with. Thank you Jesus for making us clean.
Let's go for a run!
Thursday, October 7, 2010
We'll call her Samantha
I haven't been visiting my friends at the strip clubs along with the "church ladies". I just had too much going on towards the end of the marathon training. I'll be taking some time to regroup after the marathon is over and hopefully get my house clean as well. I really miss my friends and hope they are doing well. One of my friends who is a "church lady" said that this ministry is the clearest reflection of the Acts church that she has ever experienced. I agree. As far as the phrase "church ladies", some of the club employees started calling us the church ladies a few years ago and it stuck. We think it's funny and endearing.
Although I won't be going to the clubs for a while; names, faces, stories and prayer requests will be heavy on my heart until I rejoin the church ladies.
I will forever be haunted by the story of an exotic dancer I met a few years ago. We will call her Samantha. Samantha is a spunky outgoing and hilarious girl. Covered with tattoos and piercings somehow Samantha made any hair color beautiful. I don't have a problem with tattoos and piercings. I had piercings in the past. My husband is tattooed and already has our 3 year old son asking for one like Daddy's. I told him if he wants to get a tattoo with a heart that says "I love my Momma", I'll take him today. Ha! Even though outward appearance is meaningless to me I will be the first to say I was a bit intimidated when I initially met Samantha. You could just sense that she had a STORY, and she did.
After a bit of small talk over a home cooked meal in the dressing room of a local strip club Samantha unloads her story with me and a few other church ladies.....
"I went to church when I was a little kid. The church was WEIRD!!! One Sunday I had to go to big church with the grown ups. The preacher brought out a box full if snakes and let them out onto the floor. He said that those who were really "saved" and had faith would not be afraid of the snakes. I was only 5 years old and I started to cry I tried not to but when one of the snakes got close to my foot I screamed and jumped up into my chair. The preacher said anyone without faith was going to hell. I've never seen the point in trying since then. If you have to go to church to get to heaven I guess I'm going to hell. I would rather go to hell than go to church again. One of my friends was sexually abused by a leader in her church, WHAT is up with that? She hates church too."...
After shedding some tears and an appropriate moment of silence I said,
'I'm so sorry Samantha',
and gave her a hug. The other church ladies chimed in and said,
'we are SO SORRY'
and embraced her. She stood up to leave the room with angry tears streaming down. Before she walked out of the room I said,
'Samantha, I hope you know that's not what we believe.'
She shrugged her shoulders and walked out of the room. She never brought it up again.
How will Samantha know that we don't believe the same things she learned about the church because of her experience? Samantha will know what a person believes by their ACTIONS.
I've been asked, "Why aren't you guys more evangelistic in this ministry? You may only have one opportunity to talk to some of these girls shouldn't your number one goal be to tell them about Jesus and invite them to church? Why is your number one priority to love them and befriend them?"
Let me ask a question.....
If I had invited Samantha to church the first time I met her do you think she would have ever talked to me again?
Let me ask you another question.... Considering Samantha's life story and the fact that this absurd experience was her only view of church do you blame her for not wanting to go?
As the church we have a reputation and a name to reclaim. We are going to have to take responsibility for situations like Samantha's. We are going to have to earn back the trust of many people who have been hurt by the church whether or not we inflicted the pain. Most people who want nothing to do with the church have good reasons for that decision. We need to accept the fact that there are valid reasons people might not want to be friends with a Christian and earn back their trust by living TRUE lives. We need to learn more stories like Samantha's by breaking out of the walls of our churches.
I have a five year old daughter. She is so sweet. She is very sensitive and tender hearted. We have to be really careful with what she sees even with children's cartoons. If she gets frightened she will have nightmares for weeks. I can't imagine how traumatized my little girl would be if she saw 1 snake. I think about Samantha as a little girl and realize what a terrible scar was left on her heart by the church. She grew up believing she was going to hell.... Samantha had heard the biblical story of Jesus in Sunday school. She even knew some the bible, but with her experience she is going to have to SEE some people who claim Jesus start acting like Jesus.
The number one priority is to love. Love does not condone. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices in the truth. Sometimes the truth hurts. Samantha's truth hurts. Love takes the time to get to know a person. Love is patient. Love tries to understand where a person is coming from. There are times that God ordains conversations about Jesus and about church. The majority of the times that I met a dancer for the first time they asked what church I was from. I told them and often felt lead to invite them to go with me.
You have to BE Jesus before you talk Jesus. The church ladies are subject to the direction of the Holy Spirit. It would be impossible if they weren't. There was one occasion where God ordained a conversation and all in about an hour one of the church ladies met a dancer for the first time, the dancer told her life story to the church lady. As God had planned, it just so happened that the church lady's past was very similar to the issues the dancer was dealing with. The church lady shared her life story and got to tell the dancer about her relationship with Jesus inside the strip club. She was in a desperate situation looking for answers. After that night the church lady never saw her again in the club.
I witnessed one of the church ladies courageously going into the club for the first time and by the end of the night she had invited a several of the girls to church got a great response from it. I've heard the story of one of the older church ladies who was asked to pray for a dancer in the dressing room of the club. She knelt down to pray like she always did and when she opened her eyes there was a room full of dancers kneeling in prayer. If we can just BE Jesus by dying to ourselves; He will do the talking when and where it needs to take place.
4 days..... And counting....
Let's go for a run!
Although I won't be going to the clubs for a while; names, faces, stories and prayer requests will be heavy on my heart until I rejoin the church ladies.
I will forever be haunted by the story of an exotic dancer I met a few years ago. We will call her Samantha. Samantha is a spunky outgoing and hilarious girl. Covered with tattoos and piercings somehow Samantha made any hair color beautiful. I don't have a problem with tattoos and piercings. I had piercings in the past. My husband is tattooed and already has our 3 year old son asking for one like Daddy's. I told him if he wants to get a tattoo with a heart that says "I love my Momma", I'll take him today. Ha! Even though outward appearance is meaningless to me I will be the first to say I was a bit intimidated when I initially met Samantha. You could just sense that she had a STORY, and she did.
After a bit of small talk over a home cooked meal in the dressing room of a local strip club Samantha unloads her story with me and a few other church ladies.....
"I went to church when I was a little kid. The church was WEIRD!!! One Sunday I had to go to big church with the grown ups. The preacher brought out a box full if snakes and let them out onto the floor. He said that those who were really "saved" and had faith would not be afraid of the snakes. I was only 5 years old and I started to cry I tried not to but when one of the snakes got close to my foot I screamed and jumped up into my chair. The preacher said anyone without faith was going to hell. I've never seen the point in trying since then. If you have to go to church to get to heaven I guess I'm going to hell. I would rather go to hell than go to church again. One of my friends was sexually abused by a leader in her church, WHAT is up with that? She hates church too."...
After shedding some tears and an appropriate moment of silence I said,
'I'm so sorry Samantha',
and gave her a hug. The other church ladies chimed in and said,
'we are SO SORRY'
and embraced her. She stood up to leave the room with angry tears streaming down. Before she walked out of the room I said,
'Samantha, I hope you know that's not what we believe.'
She shrugged her shoulders and walked out of the room. She never brought it up again.
How will Samantha know that we don't believe the same things she learned about the church because of her experience? Samantha will know what a person believes by their ACTIONS.
I've been asked, "Why aren't you guys more evangelistic in this ministry? You may only have one opportunity to talk to some of these girls shouldn't your number one goal be to tell them about Jesus and invite them to church? Why is your number one priority to love them and befriend them?"
Let me ask a question.....
If I had invited Samantha to church the first time I met her do you think she would have ever talked to me again?
Let me ask you another question.... Considering Samantha's life story and the fact that this absurd experience was her only view of church do you blame her for not wanting to go?
As the church we have a reputation and a name to reclaim. We are going to have to take responsibility for situations like Samantha's. We are going to have to earn back the trust of many people who have been hurt by the church whether or not we inflicted the pain. Most people who want nothing to do with the church have good reasons for that decision. We need to accept the fact that there are valid reasons people might not want to be friends with a Christian and earn back their trust by living TRUE lives. We need to learn more stories like Samantha's by breaking out of the walls of our churches.
I have a five year old daughter. She is so sweet. She is very sensitive and tender hearted. We have to be really careful with what she sees even with children's cartoons. If she gets frightened she will have nightmares for weeks. I can't imagine how traumatized my little girl would be if she saw 1 snake. I think about Samantha as a little girl and realize what a terrible scar was left on her heart by the church. She grew up believing she was going to hell.... Samantha had heard the biblical story of Jesus in Sunday school. She even knew some the bible, but with her experience she is going to have to SEE some people who claim Jesus start acting like Jesus.
The number one priority is to love. Love does not condone. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices in the truth. Sometimes the truth hurts. Samantha's truth hurts. Love takes the time to get to know a person. Love is patient. Love tries to understand where a person is coming from. There are times that God ordains conversations about Jesus and about church. The majority of the times that I met a dancer for the first time they asked what church I was from. I told them and often felt lead to invite them to go with me.
You have to BE Jesus before you talk Jesus. The church ladies are subject to the direction of the Holy Spirit. It would be impossible if they weren't. There was one occasion where God ordained a conversation and all in about an hour one of the church ladies met a dancer for the first time, the dancer told her life story to the church lady. As God had planned, it just so happened that the church lady's past was very similar to the issues the dancer was dealing with. The church lady shared her life story and got to tell the dancer about her relationship with Jesus inside the strip club. She was in a desperate situation looking for answers. After that night the church lady never saw her again in the club.
I witnessed one of the church ladies courageously going into the club for the first time and by the end of the night she had invited a several of the girls to church got a great response from it. I've heard the story of one of the older church ladies who was asked to pray for a dancer in the dressing room of the club. She knelt down to pray like she always did and when she opened her eyes there was a room full of dancers kneeling in prayer. If we can just BE Jesus by dying to ourselves; He will do the talking when and where it needs to take place.
4 days..... And counting....
Let's go for a run!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Countdown!!
I guess a 10 day count down would have made more sense than a 5 day count down. I'm a procrastinator so it only seems fitting to start the count down today. Better late than never right? Let's just hope I get to the starting line on time race day. I still need to get MOVING on some last minute details but from perspective of a pitiful procrastinator things are coming together.
I've been coming up with a list of 26 things to pray for during the marathon. Taryn who started Running for the Refuge last year gave me that tip. She said she wrote down names places & specific prayer requests having to do with the Refuge for Women as well as the ministry in Lexington that reaches out to the employee's of several local strip clubs. The day of the Taryn's race she wrote 26 prayer requests on her arm and had something to pray about each mile. What an awesome girl! not to mention a great idea!
Im getting excited and I 'm SO thankful for all of the donations that have been coming in for the Refuge for Women. The generosity of friends and family and even acquaintances has blown me away! There are several people I've only met once who sent a check, a well as friends I haven't talked to in years. Those of you who contributed to the Refuge for Women will be in my thoughts and prayers as well, you have added motivation and conviction to do my very best. Although finishing is all that matters I really wish I could beat my PR. Seriously, doesn't everyone wish they could beat their PR if possible? I'm loving my training schedule this week. It's 99% covered in yellow high lighter. Tonight I have a 4 mile run, tomorrow 2...... then the race... BUTTERFLIES!!!!!
5 DAYS.... and counting......
Let's go for a run!
I've been coming up with a list of 26 things to pray for during the marathon. Taryn who started Running for the Refuge last year gave me that tip. She said she wrote down names places & specific prayer requests having to do with the Refuge for Women as well as the ministry in Lexington that reaches out to the employee's of several local strip clubs. The day of the Taryn's race she wrote 26 prayer requests on her arm and had something to pray about each mile. What an awesome girl! not to mention a great idea!
Im getting excited and I 'm SO thankful for all of the donations that have been coming in for the Refuge for Women. The generosity of friends and family and even acquaintances has blown me away! There are several people I've only met once who sent a check, a well as friends I haven't talked to in years. Those of you who contributed to the Refuge for Women will be in my thoughts and prayers as well, you have added motivation and conviction to do my very best. Although finishing is all that matters I really wish I could beat my PR. Seriously, doesn't everyone wish they could beat their PR if possible? I'm loving my training schedule this week. It's 99% covered in yellow high lighter. Tonight I have a 4 mile run, tomorrow 2...... then the race... BUTTERFLIES!!!!!
5 DAYS.... and counting......
Let's go for a run!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Read it and weep.
This entry has nothing to do with running. I just thought I would share something on my heart. I wanted to talk about a verse that has been so helpful in times when I find myself asking God, "Where are you?"...... I made up this story in an effort to wrap my head around a verse that made me very aware of God's presence and blew my mind.
A military Dad is separated from his wife and twin sons while at war over seas. He is a great Dad and is devastated that he has to miss out on so much of his boy's lives. He writes letters to them each day and is so proud that they are learning how to read. Before the boys could read he colored pictures for them. Colorful drawings of places he had traveled friends he had made. He wanted to be known by his sons. Each time he came home it made it that much harder to leave. Against all odds this wonderful military Father maintained a healthy long distance relationship with his wife and sons. Every day he poured out his heart writing letters to his sons telling them all about himself and how much he loved them. Years passed and the Father realized his sons had grown into men, he did everything in he could to make quality time to invest in his relationships with his sons while he was home.
During one of his breaks he noticed one of his sons was distant and uninterested in hanging out. The Father found out his son that was distant had thrown away all of his letters and stopped reading them several years ago. This grieved the Father because the letters were straight from his heart and even though his son couldn't see him face to face each day the words were who the Father is. He thought about getting made fun of by fellow soldiers for coloring pictures for his sons before they could read and still he didn't care because it was worth it. He thought about how he had written things specifically for each son as an individual and not as twin. He was the most sad that his son had rejected an opportunity to get to know him. He was vulnerable, honest all of his words were true and full of love for his sons.
One of the boys cherished the letters although he wished he could hear his Dad audibly and touch his skin he made the best of the situation. At times it was as if he really heard His Dad's laugh, saw his smile or felt his hug. This son not only accepted the letters but clung to each word and used the letters to build a relationship with his Dad and understand his Father's heart.
The other son focused on his Dad's physical absence and rejected the letters. In that decision he also rejected a chance to get to know his Dad in the only way possible for the time being.
Revelation 19:13 says-He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God.
Phrases like "read me like a book" make me feel uncomfortable. It's my pride, I don't mind being read to a certain extent but we all have those chapters and words we would like to ignore or erase all together. At least I do. What if I choose to be an open book and my readers don't like the book. What if my readers throw up or fall asleep. What if my readers exchange the book or throw it away. All of my days are written in His book- Psalm 139:16. The Word has made Himself an open book to me through the bible. Jesus in the form of the written Word (the bible) came alive to me like never before as I tried to wrap my head around His NAME being called The Word of God. Does that also imply that His identity his very being is the Word of God the bible?
Revelation 19:13-He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and his Name is The Word of God.
The One wearing a robe dipped in blood who is named The Word of God is Jesus. Jesus is the Word and the bible is our letters from our Father. The Way to build a relationship with Jesus our Father. The Way to hear from God the Way to know God.
John 14:6- Jesus is the Way the truth and the life and nobody comes to the Father but through Him.
The Message John 1:1-2-The Word was first, the Word was present to God, God was present to the Word. The Word was God, in readiness for God from day one.
Hebrews 10:7 "I'm here to do it your way, O God, the way it's described in your Book. -Book is capitalized to communicate that it is a name, a PERSON the person speaking... Jesus...
Hebrews 4:12-For the Word of God is living and active.
EVERY DAY OF MY LIFE WAS RECORDED IN YOUR BOOK.
Let's go for a run!
A military Dad is separated from his wife and twin sons while at war over seas. He is a great Dad and is devastated that he has to miss out on so much of his boy's lives. He writes letters to them each day and is so proud that they are learning how to read. Before the boys could read he colored pictures for them. Colorful drawings of places he had traveled friends he had made. He wanted to be known by his sons. Each time he came home it made it that much harder to leave. Against all odds this wonderful military Father maintained a healthy long distance relationship with his wife and sons. Every day he poured out his heart writing letters to his sons telling them all about himself and how much he loved them. Years passed and the Father realized his sons had grown into men, he did everything in he could to make quality time to invest in his relationships with his sons while he was home.
During one of his breaks he noticed one of his sons was distant and uninterested in hanging out. The Father found out his son that was distant had thrown away all of his letters and stopped reading them several years ago. This grieved the Father because the letters were straight from his heart and even though his son couldn't see him face to face each day the words were who the Father is. He thought about getting made fun of by fellow soldiers for coloring pictures for his sons before they could read and still he didn't care because it was worth it. He thought about how he had written things specifically for each son as an individual and not as twin. He was the most sad that his son had rejected an opportunity to get to know him. He was vulnerable, honest all of his words were true and full of love for his sons.
One of the boys cherished the letters although he wished he could hear his Dad audibly and touch his skin he made the best of the situation. At times it was as if he really heard His Dad's laugh, saw his smile or felt his hug. This son not only accepted the letters but clung to each word and used the letters to build a relationship with his Dad and understand his Father's heart.
The other son focused on his Dad's physical absence and rejected the letters. In that decision he also rejected a chance to get to know his Dad in the only way possible for the time being.
Revelation 19:13 says-He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God.
Phrases like "read me like a book" make me feel uncomfortable. It's my pride, I don't mind being read to a certain extent but we all have those chapters and words we would like to ignore or erase all together. At least I do. What if I choose to be an open book and my readers don't like the book. What if my readers throw up or fall asleep. What if my readers exchange the book or throw it away. All of my days are written in His book- Psalm 139:16. The Word has made Himself an open book to me through the bible. Jesus in the form of the written Word (the bible) came alive to me like never before as I tried to wrap my head around His NAME being called The Word of God. Does that also imply that His identity his very being is the Word of God the bible?
Revelation 19:13-He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and his Name is The Word of God.
The One wearing a robe dipped in blood who is named The Word of God is Jesus. Jesus is the Word and the bible is our letters from our Father. The Way to build a relationship with Jesus our Father. The Way to hear from God the Way to know God.
John 14:6- Jesus is the Way the truth and the life and nobody comes to the Father but through Him.
The Message John 1:1-2-The Word was first, the Word was present to God, God was present to the Word. The Word was God, in readiness for God from day one.
Hebrews 10:7 "I'm here to do it your way, O God, the way it's described in your Book. -Book is capitalized to communicate that it is a name, a PERSON the person speaking... Jesus...
Hebrews 4:12-For the Word of God is living and active.
EVERY DAY OF MY LIFE WAS RECORDED IN YOUR BOOK.
Let's go for a run!
Friday, October 1, 2010
Marathons and Childbirth
A few days ago Der asked me,
"What's harder marathon or natural childbirth?"
My second baby was an emergency c-section. His heart rate dropped to 40, an average heart rate for a boy is around 160. It was scary to say the least. Nevertheless God protected him and after he was born he soon turned from blue to a rosy skin tone. I'm so thankful to live in a day and age where doctors can save baby's lives by doing emergency c-sections. After our miracle baby was born I chose joy and decided to dwell on the fact that he was healthy. I also focused on all of the blessings God granted through the experience but it was still hard and I was slightly traumatized by the whole labor and delivery.
All of that to say with the third pregnancy I was adamant to attempt a natural VBAC. With the help and support of Derrick, family, friends, an amazingly gifted doula and ultimately the Great Physician my third baby was born a natural VBAC. We faced much opposition and discouragement with our decision to go with a natural birthing experience.
The biggest challenge was an ultra sound showing only one kidney. I remember meeting Derrick in the waiting room of the OB and repeating the information I had just received. I told Derrick,
"Even if he only has one kidney God can make another one."
Words like high risk pregnancy, bed rest, scheduled c-section were just a few that left Derrick and I searching for answers. We continued to pray asking our Creator to knit our son another kidney. It wasn't a terrible situation by any means and we were told many babies are born with one kidney and live a perfectly healthy life. We still hoped to avoid the possible complications we were told may come along with having a baby with one kidney.
I had three ultrasounds within 2 weeks the first two ultrasounds showing only one kidney. After much prayer the third ultrasound revealed 2 kidneys, one smaller than the other but nevertheless TWO kidneys. Just days before only one was found. I was scheduled to have a fourth ultrasound soon after at a high risk OB office to make 100% sure baby was okay. The equipment at the high risk doctors office is much more efficient and would show every detail of baby's organs.
When the ultrasound was over and done with the high risk OB was perplexed as to why I was even there. I had to repeat several times that the previous ultrasounds were only showing one kidney. I saw with my own two eyes the kidneyS equal in size and functioning perfectly! Wow what an answer to prayer. God really showed me that He cares about every detail. I had such confidence that baby would be healthy and that no matter what God would be with me through the labor and delivery.
We had one more small scare between 38 an 39 weeks when baby's heart rate slowed down and we were strongly encouraged to induce labor. We knew God was in charge and our gut told us to wait. After several hours of being hooked to all sorts of wires, needles and machines, a second doctor came in and said " Baby is probably just sleeping I think you are fine to go home."
About a week later I went into labor. The pain made me wondering I was abducted, forced on a spaceship and taken to a planet called torture. It's like a completely different world. To answer Der's question..... In my opinion, natural childbirth BY FAR is much harder than running a marathon.
I would even say that childbirth with an epidural and c- section is still harder than a marathon. I've done it all 3 ways. As far as the epidural goes, it's great, BUT.... the THANG wears off and let's just put it nicely and say.... You can feel the damage that was done afterwards no matter how the baby came out.
A sweet friend of mine recently said,
"I don't know how you do it!", she was referring to the training. It didn't make sense to me because she is a Mom. If you are a mom you can run a marathon! There was a time in my life that I couldn't imagine giving birth, functioning through sleep deprivation and the many other challenges that go along with motherhood. You do it because you are forced to push yourself beyond your present capabilities. That's how you get there. Do yourself a favor today; believe that you can surpass your present capabilities and challenge yourself. Afterwards you will be proud of yourself and gain confidence to keep pushing yourself forward.
Let's go for a run!
"What's harder marathon or natural childbirth?"
My second baby was an emergency c-section. His heart rate dropped to 40, an average heart rate for a boy is around 160. It was scary to say the least. Nevertheless God protected him and after he was born he soon turned from blue to a rosy skin tone. I'm so thankful to live in a day and age where doctors can save baby's lives by doing emergency c-sections. After our miracle baby was born I chose joy and decided to dwell on the fact that he was healthy. I also focused on all of the blessings God granted through the experience but it was still hard and I was slightly traumatized by the whole labor and delivery.
All of that to say with the third pregnancy I was adamant to attempt a natural VBAC. With the help and support of Derrick, family, friends, an amazingly gifted doula and ultimately the Great Physician my third baby was born a natural VBAC. We faced much opposition and discouragement with our decision to go with a natural birthing experience.
The biggest challenge was an ultra sound showing only one kidney. I remember meeting Derrick in the waiting room of the OB and repeating the information I had just received. I told Derrick,
"Even if he only has one kidney God can make another one."
Words like high risk pregnancy, bed rest, scheduled c-section were just a few that left Derrick and I searching for answers. We continued to pray asking our Creator to knit our son another kidney. It wasn't a terrible situation by any means and we were told many babies are born with one kidney and live a perfectly healthy life. We still hoped to avoid the possible complications we were told may come along with having a baby with one kidney.
I had three ultrasounds within 2 weeks the first two ultrasounds showing only one kidney. After much prayer the third ultrasound revealed 2 kidneys, one smaller than the other but nevertheless TWO kidneys. Just days before only one was found. I was scheduled to have a fourth ultrasound soon after at a high risk OB office to make 100% sure baby was okay. The equipment at the high risk doctors office is much more efficient and would show every detail of baby's organs.
When the ultrasound was over and done with the high risk OB was perplexed as to why I was even there. I had to repeat several times that the previous ultrasounds were only showing one kidney. I saw with my own two eyes the kidneyS equal in size and functioning perfectly! Wow what an answer to prayer. God really showed me that He cares about every detail. I had such confidence that baby would be healthy and that no matter what God would be with me through the labor and delivery.
We had one more small scare between 38 an 39 weeks when baby's heart rate slowed down and we were strongly encouraged to induce labor. We knew God was in charge and our gut told us to wait. After several hours of being hooked to all sorts of wires, needles and machines, a second doctor came in and said " Baby is probably just sleeping I think you are fine to go home."
About a week later I went into labor. The pain made me wondering I was abducted, forced on a spaceship and taken to a planet called torture. It's like a completely different world. To answer Der's question..... In my opinion, natural childbirth BY FAR is much harder than running a marathon.
I would even say that childbirth with an epidural and c- section is still harder than a marathon. I've done it all 3 ways. As far as the epidural goes, it's great, BUT.... the THANG wears off and let's just put it nicely and say.... You can feel the damage that was done afterwards no matter how the baby came out.
A sweet friend of mine recently said,
"I don't know how you do it!", she was referring to the training. It didn't make sense to me because she is a Mom. If you are a mom you can run a marathon! There was a time in my life that I couldn't imagine giving birth, functioning through sleep deprivation and the many other challenges that go along with motherhood. You do it because you are forced to push yourself beyond your present capabilities. That's how you get there. Do yourself a favor today; believe that you can surpass your present capabilities and challenge yourself. Afterwards you will be proud of yourself and gain confidence to keep pushing yourself forward.
Let's go for a run!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Awesome Pic's...10$!!
Are you still wishing you could help support the Refuge for Women but wonder if what you have to offer will even make a difference? I've often felt that way but I want you to know that just one dollar is greatly appreciated and goes a long way at the Refuge for Women. My friends Jeff and Abby Laub have so generously offered to use their gift for photography as a fun and creative way to help raise support for Running for the Refuge. Here's an exciting and unbeatable offer to give. By giving you will receive the opportunity to get your pictures made by Lexington's most talented photography artists and much more! See the following invitation from Abby. Thanks jalaubphotography! You guys are AWESOME!
Come on out and celebrate our open studio party! In business already for three years in weddings and location photography, J.A. Laub Photography is celebrating the grand opening of its studio.
We hope you can join us for...
1. Lots of awesome food and fellowship.
2. A raffle for a free photo session (all proceeds will benefit the Refuge for Women.) $5 raffle tickets, winner gets a $200 photos session!
3. $10 mini sessions in the studio. Perfect for engagements, Christmas card photos, etc.... get creative!
4. Great coupons for future photography work with J.A. Laub.
We'll see you next weekend! Bring your friends and family to join the fun. :)
www.jalaubphotography.com
Call Abby for more info. 859.967.6680 or email jalaubphotography@gmail.com
--
Abby Laub
312 Bernie Trail
Nicholasville, KY 40356
859.967.6680
Come on out and celebrate our open studio party! In business already for three years in weddings and location photography, J.A. Laub Photography is celebrating the grand opening of its studio.
We hope you can join us for...
1. Lots of awesome food and fellowship.
2. A raffle for a free photo session (all proceeds will benefit the Refuge for Women.) $5 raffle tickets, winner gets a $200 photos session!
3. $10 mini sessions in the studio. Perfect for engagements, Christmas card photos, etc.... get creative!
4. Great coupons for future photography work with J.A. Laub.
We'll see you next weekend! Bring your friends and family to join the fun. :)
www.jalaubphotography.com
Call Abby for more info. 859.967.6680 or email jalaubphotography@gmail.com
--
Abby Laub
312 Bernie Trail
Nicholasville, KY 40356
859.967.6680
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Open Heart Surgery
Recently a wonderful friend from college told me throughout our friendship she felt I had put up a wall, not allowing her to really know me. I'm so thankful for her honesty and know she is not one to lie about things she discerns in others. I've been so convicted of my "walls" since then especially because I sincerely thought I was being vulnerable and transparent in this particular friendship. This is an attempt at being known other than Ron Burgundy jokes and Seinfeld quotes.
There is just something about being pushed beyond my physical limitations that makes me more in tuned with my spirit being. As God is 3 in one we are 3 in one-physical, mental and spiritual beings. All 3 go hand in hand and affect one another. If you are a runner you know emotions are sure to surface throughout the training and race. It just so happens that God has been gently but persistently asking me to trust Him to do some healing. Healing sounds nice but first it hurts before it feels better. I wanted to share something God taught me on an emotional run. If you prefer the Ron Burgundy material and want to stop reading right now I don't blame you.....
My imagination ran wild on my run today and I pictured myself on an operating table split wide open down the chest. The funny part is I was not put under, I was completely coherent. In fact, I was slightly sitting up fumbling over a bunch of medical tools. I was trying to do open heart surgery on myself.
That's me Ms. FixItMyself, nice to meet you. What a moron! I would try something like that, figuratively speaking, and too often do. God showed me that this is how I am trying to handle a difficult situation in my life. I admit I have"issues" or whatever you want to call them; we all deal with them to some degree. Those who claim to have no issues are worse off than me. Before you think too far into this know that I am NOT into drama. Ask Der, I usually go the other extreme MsFixItMyself. The fact that I thought this "junk" was more of a paper cut that I could slap a band-aid on and everything would be fine is proof that I hate drama.
I've been attempting to fix it myself when I've been in need of "spiritual open heart surgery". Even the worlds best physicians would laugh at the idea of doing open heart surgery on themselves and place their lives in someone else's hands. A choice remains, with the diagnosis the Great Physician has presented. I can reject Omnipotent help or I can go under the spiritual knife. I trust Him. I'm going under.
Proverbs 20:5
"The purpose of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out."
There is just something about being pushed beyond my physical limitations that makes me more in tuned with my spirit being. As God is 3 in one we are 3 in one-physical, mental and spiritual beings. All 3 go hand in hand and affect one another. If you are a runner you know emotions are sure to surface throughout the training and race. It just so happens that God has been gently but persistently asking me to trust Him to do some healing. Healing sounds nice but first it hurts before it feels better. I wanted to share something God taught me on an emotional run. If you prefer the Ron Burgundy material and want to stop reading right now I don't blame you.....
My imagination ran wild on my run today and I pictured myself on an operating table split wide open down the chest. The funny part is I was not put under, I was completely coherent. In fact, I was slightly sitting up fumbling over a bunch of medical tools. I was trying to do open heart surgery on myself.
That's me Ms. FixItMyself, nice to meet you. What a moron! I would try something like that, figuratively speaking, and too often do. God showed me that this is how I am trying to handle a difficult situation in my life. I admit I have"issues" or whatever you want to call them; we all deal with them to some degree. Those who claim to have no issues are worse off than me. Before you think too far into this know that I am NOT into drama. Ask Der, I usually go the other extreme MsFixItMyself. The fact that I thought this "junk" was more of a paper cut that I could slap a band-aid on and everything would be fine is proof that I hate drama.
I've been attempting to fix it myself when I've been in need of "spiritual open heart surgery". Even the worlds best physicians would laugh at the idea of doing open heart surgery on themselves and place their lives in someone else's hands. A choice remains, with the diagnosis the Great Physician has presented. I can reject Omnipotent help or I can go under the spiritual knife. I trust Him. I'm going under.
Proverbs 20:5
"The purpose of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out."
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Loyal Two Timer
Soon after I decided to start a blog to track my journey with Running for the Refuge Derrick and I were talking about his blog and some pointers he learned along the way. If you have not seen my husbands blog you have to check it out, it's family-bike-words.blogspot.com. Der is the funniest, smartest, coolest, most honorable, sweetest, best looking guy in existence. For the record, I apologize to every woman in the world for taking him. If you know Der and I as one, you may have noticed that we are more than slightly delusional in our perspective/ opinion of one another, which makes our marriage work so well.
Back to Der's tips for getting "some good word of mouth going" about my blog. He said his blog got a lot more hits after one of his favorite bike brands Xtracycle @ mentioned him on twitter. Der suggested I tweet about how much I love my running shoes and @ mention Asics. I've tried over and over to come up with 140 characters to convey the confidence I have in knowing that I'm wearing the right shoe before the big race.... The only problem is.... I confess.....I have TWO favorite brands of running shoes! I just couldn't @ mention one brand and not the other. I can't pick one favorite pair. Der took a picture of my Asics and put it on my blog. They just happened to be the first pair I could find when Der asked me to grab them. I trade off between my Asics and my Mizuno's.
It all goes back to my freakish feet. They are shockingly narrow. My toes look like the average persons fingers. Need I mention an arch like the one in St. Louis? I need a good fit which astonishingly..... my Mizuno's provide. What would I do without Johns Run Walk Shop? I would be in bad shape. I also need extra cushioning for my knees which my Asics (cumulus 12) provide. I wear both. I love both. My knees feel great. My feet are in great shape in comparison to my last race. I'm a loyal two timer when it comes to my running shoes. Please! someone tell me you have freakish feet too!
Let's go for a run!
Back to Der's tips for getting "some good word of mouth going" about my blog. He said his blog got a lot more hits after one of his favorite bike brands Xtracycle @ mentioned him on twitter. Der suggested I tweet about how much I love my running shoes and @ mention Asics. I've tried over and over to come up with 140 characters to convey the confidence I have in knowing that I'm wearing the right shoe before the big race.... The only problem is.... I confess.....I have TWO favorite brands of running shoes! I just couldn't @ mention one brand and not the other. I can't pick one favorite pair. Der took a picture of my Asics and put it on my blog. They just happened to be the first pair I could find when Der asked me to grab them. I trade off between my Asics and my Mizuno's.
It all goes back to my freakish feet. They are shockingly narrow. My toes look like the average persons fingers. Need I mention an arch like the one in St. Louis? I need a good fit which astonishingly..... my Mizuno's provide. What would I do without Johns Run Walk Shop? I would be in bad shape. I also need extra cushioning for my knees which my Asics (cumulus 12) provide. I wear both. I love both. My knees feel great. My feet are in great shape in comparison to my last race. I'm a loyal two timer when it comes to my running shoes. Please! someone tell me you have freakish feet too!
Let's go for a run!
Monday, September 27, 2010
Socially Acceptable?
On my run yesterday I didn't think twice before aggressively shooting out a snot rocket. I'm really exposing how lady like I truly am on this blog. Did I mention I was in my neighborhood? I guess I've lost all awareness of normal manners outside of marathon training. I fully believe that if any of my neighbors saw me they would understand if I told them I was on mile 7 of a 12 mile run. Or maybe they wouldn't understand. I began to think about the many fun things that are only "socially acceptable" and even PRAISED, mind you...... in a marathon. So here's my top 10 funniest things that are "socially acceptable" only in a race.
1). Adults peeing their pants....
2). Men with bloody nipples.....
If you aren't a runner before you judge me let me explain....... men+ cotton T-shirts+ marathon= bloody nipples. DUDES, do not forget your band-aids!
3). Littering.....
There's just something about opening a brand new bottle of water poring it on your head and throwing right on the ground that makes me feel like a real professional.
4). Snot rockets.
5). Hocking loogies
6). Mutant B.O.
I've smelled some bad B.O. during races before, but I much prefer it to strong perfume. Ladies, if you are going to run 13.1 mi.+, you are going to stink. Save the perfume for later, it's like breathing in toxic fumes for your fellow runners. We would much prefer your B.O.! "what am I hard of smelling?"-Elaine
7). Sharing a water bottle or energy gel with a complete stranger.
8). Grown adults throwing a tantrum like a toddler.
9). Dressing up like Elvis- (Louisville)
10). Public display of puking
1). Adults peeing their pants....
2). Men with bloody nipples.....
If you aren't a runner before you judge me let me explain....... men+ cotton T-shirts+ marathon= bloody nipples. DUDES, do not forget your band-aids!
3). Littering.....
There's just something about opening a brand new bottle of water poring it on your head and throwing right on the ground that makes me feel like a real professional.
4). Snot rockets.
5). Hocking loogies
6). Mutant B.O.
I've smelled some bad B.O. during races before, but I much prefer it to strong perfume. Ladies, if you are going to run 13.1 mi.+, you are going to stink. Save the perfume for later, it's like breathing in toxic fumes for your fellow runners. We would much prefer your B.O.! "what am I hard of smelling?"-Elaine
7). Sharing a water bottle or energy gel with a complete stranger.
8). Grown adults throwing a tantrum like a toddler.
9). Dressing up like Elvis- (Louisville)
10). Public display of puking
Friday, September 24, 2010
Love/ Hate
Today is a rest day and I'm glad, I needed it! As my training is coming to an end it is bitter sweet. This marathon as well as my first have been kind of a love/ hate relationship. I remember in college when Derrick and I were just friends, I sarcastically told my Mom I hated him. She said,
"There's a fine line between love and hate."
She was right. She knew Derrick was the one and knew I loved him before I even realized it. I hated him because I truly loved him and we were not dating. The hate disappeared when I knew we would be together until death do us part. Our "worlds collided",as Costanza puts it, and I married my best friend.
My passion for running is nothing in comparison to my love for Derrick and our kids. I love running and I would even say I love every aspect of mini marathons. At this point for me personally full marathons are a love/ hate relationship. After my first mini I didn't exercise PERIOD.... for a month. I kept telling myself;
"Well I ran 13.1 miles a few days ago..... a few weeks ago..... Oh, a month ago maybe I better start moving."
I'm sure I'll start some kind of doughnut/ sloth regimen after the race is over but I'm thankful for the experience, high's and low's alike.
Let's go for a run!
"There's a fine line between love and hate."
She was right. She knew Derrick was the one and knew I loved him before I even realized it. I hated him because I truly loved him and we were not dating. The hate disappeared when I knew we would be together until death do us part. Our "worlds collided",as Costanza puts it, and I married my best friend.
My passion for running is nothing in comparison to my love for Derrick and our kids. I love running and I would even say I love every aspect of mini marathons. At this point for me personally full marathons are a love/ hate relationship. After my first mini I didn't exercise PERIOD.... for a month. I kept telling myself;
"Well I ran 13.1 miles a few days ago..... a few weeks ago..... Oh, a month ago maybe I better start moving."
I'm sure I'll start some kind of doughnut/ sloth regimen after the race is over but I'm thankful for the experience, high's and low's alike.
Let's go for a run!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Jon Bon
I've been reminiscing about my first marathon in hopes to try to somewhat mentally prepare myself. It's weird even though I've done it once; past experience is not going to carry me over the finish line 3 years later. I remember getting Jon Bon Jovi's "livin' on a prayer" stuck in my head when the full marathon runners split from the half marathon runners.
"Whooaaaaaa! We´re half way there
Whooooaaaa! Livin' on a prayer
Take my hand- we´ll make it - I swear
Whooaaaa! Livin' on a prayer"
Which reminded me I need to come up with a playlist for the race. I run without music 90% of the time. I didn't use an iPod for my first race because they said it wasn't allowed. I was so mad that I didn't break the rules when I noticed people with their headphones on jammin. I guess I'll take my iPhone and figure it out when I get there.
I've tried to train myself in boredom by not listening to music and doing most of my running right in my neighborhood. I guess I'll find out if it helped on race day. I don't see how it can hurt. The Towpath marathon was rated the most beautiful marathon as far as scenery, although the route is one way 13.1 miles and back the same exact 13.1 in reverse. I'm hoping that doesn't mess with me mentally.
Any ideas on good running music? I know Zach Bolen's "Be Team" will be on my marathon playlist!
Let's go for a run!
"Whooaaaaaa! We´re half way there
Whooooaaaa! Livin' on a prayer
Take my hand- we´ll make it - I swear
Whooaaaa! Livin' on a prayer"
Which reminded me I need to come up with a playlist for the race. I run without music 90% of the time. I didn't use an iPod for my first race because they said it wasn't allowed. I was so mad that I didn't break the rules when I noticed people with their headphones on jammin. I guess I'll take my iPhone and figure it out when I get there.
I've tried to train myself in boredom by not listening to music and doing most of my running right in my neighborhood. I guess I'll find out if it helped on race day. I don't see how it can hurt. The Towpath marathon was rated the most beautiful marathon as far as scenery, although the route is one way 13.1 miles and back the same exact 13.1 in reverse. I'm hoping that doesn't mess with me mentally.
Any ideas on good running music? I know Zach Bolen's "Be Team" will be on my marathon playlist!
Let's go for a run!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Refuge for Women
On my run this morning. I gave my heart to the precious women and children at the Refuge through prayer. Some of them I have met, some I hope to have the privilege of meeting in the future, some of them I will meet in heaven. If any of you ladies at the Refuge for Women are reading this I want you to know that I love you. Your Maker loves you more than any of us will ever know here on earth- 1 John 4:19. Your Savior loves you- John 15:12. He knew you before you were born- Psalm 139:13. He knows this very minute exactly how many hairs are on your heads-Matthew 10:30. He has a plan for you-Jeremiah 29:11. He has engraved your name on His hands-Isaiah 49:16. He is called Immanuel, which means God with us- Matthew 1:23. He will never leave or forsake you-Hebrews 13:5. He is compassionate and gracious slow to anger, abounding in love-Psalm 103:8. You are precious and honored in his sight-Isaiah 43:4. He will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs- Isaiah 58:11. He will be your home-John14:23. He prays for you when you don't even know what to pray.-Romans 8:26. He is stronger than anything threatening you.-1John 4:4. He gives you the ability "do ALL things" through his strength- Philippians 4:13. I want you to know I admire you for the courage it took to make this leap of faith. You are loved. There are people across the NATION praying for you. We believe in you!
Let's go for a run!
Let's go for a run!
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
My Always
Today I've been thinking about my favorite places to run. I'm not well traveled so most of my running has taken place in KY. I went to school in Cincinnati for a few years and found some fun places to run there. I used to start out in down town Cincinnati at "the wall" and run the bridges back and forth from Cincinnati to Newport (Northern KY.) That was fun and there was always a lot to see.
My parents house is surrounded by farmland. The scenery on my old running route is full of big trees, wooded land and open fields. Pretty lakes and ponds are everywhere you look. I was never alone when I ran around my parents house. All kinds of creatures kept me company along the way; ostriches, huge bulls, cows, horses, sheep and llamas are just a few.
Once I was running on part of the road that is hidden between thick woods on both sides. In a split second I came face to face with a giant buck with antlers bigger than me. I froze and began to replay a video I had seen of a man getting marred by a deer that wanted to box. Thankfully this beast of a buck was just as scared of me as I was of him and jumped back into the woods. I've leapt over snakes been chased by wild dogs, prayed when a doberman pinscher guard dog escaped from his fenced in yard. I love nature!
I also love to run around Cherokee and Seneca park in Louisville. These are my all time favorite places to run. I'm getting to know Lexington better now that we've lived here 5 years. I really like the multi use path along 68. That's where I did my 20 miler on Saturday.
My running routes remind me of a gift my always (Derrick) gave me. It's pictures he took along his bike route. Each picture resembles a letter from my name. You can't tell from the picture but the notebook paper says "a view from my bike.. Bone of my bone & flesh of my flesh. You're with me everywhere I go." I know ladies, I am SO BLESSED.
Let's go for a run!
My parents house is surrounded by farmland. The scenery on my old running route is full of big trees, wooded land and open fields. Pretty lakes and ponds are everywhere you look. I was never alone when I ran around my parents house. All kinds of creatures kept me company along the way; ostriches, huge bulls, cows, horses, sheep and llamas are just a few.
Once I was running on part of the road that is hidden between thick woods on both sides. In a split second I came face to face with a giant buck with antlers bigger than me. I froze and began to replay a video I had seen of a man getting marred by a deer that wanted to box. Thankfully this beast of a buck was just as scared of me as I was of him and jumped back into the woods. I've leapt over snakes been chased by wild dogs, prayed when a doberman pinscher guard dog escaped from his fenced in yard. I love nature!
I also love to run around Cherokee and Seneca park in Louisville. These are my all time favorite places to run. I'm getting to know Lexington better now that we've lived here 5 years. I really like the multi use path along 68. That's where I did my 20 miler on Saturday.
My running routes remind me of a gift my always (Derrick) gave me. It's pictures he took along his bike route. Each picture resembles a letter from my name. You can't tell from the picture but the notebook paper says "a view from my bike.. Bone of my bone & flesh of my flesh. You're with me everywhere I go." I know ladies, I am SO BLESSED.
Let's go for a run!
Monday, September 20, 2010
Grody Psycho
Run until you puke, push it harder another four.
Run until your toenails fall off, it's okay you will grow some more.
Run until you begin to shed, there's still plenty on your head.
Cramps like a knife stabbing your calf, hopefully they won't come til after the half.
Blisters upon blisters and lips turning blue, wishing you were at home with the flu.
Don't get too emotion you might hyperventilate. What happens next? The heart wants to palpitate.
Toes curling under involuntarily, wishing you were a fan cheering on merrily.
Bone on bone about to shatter, forget it! stay focused; mind over matter.
Fingers and toes begin to go numb. Delirium?, or sanity? tells you this is dumb.
If you slow down it only hurts worse, keep your head up and try not to curse.
Is 1 more step a possibility? Stop doubting and make it reality.
The finish line is drawing near the shouts of loved ones you can hear.
Digits formed by red flashing lights, it's almost over push with all your might.
Over the last mile marker you soar, you never loved that beeping sound more.
.2 miles never felt longer, physically mentally, emotionally you're stronger.
-Angie Purvis
Let's go for a run!
Run until your toenails fall off, it's okay you will grow some more.
Run until you begin to shed, there's still plenty on your head.
Cramps like a knife stabbing your calf, hopefully they won't come til after the half.
Blisters upon blisters and lips turning blue, wishing you were at home with the flu.
Don't get too emotion you might hyperventilate. What happens next? The heart wants to palpitate.
Toes curling under involuntarily, wishing you were a fan cheering on merrily.
Bone on bone about to shatter, forget it! stay focused; mind over matter.
Fingers and toes begin to go numb. Delirium?, or sanity? tells you this is dumb.
If you slow down it only hurts worse, keep your head up and try not to curse.
Is 1 more step a possibility? Stop doubting and make it reality.
The finish line is drawing near the shouts of loved ones you can hear.
Digits formed by red flashing lights, it's almost over push with all your might.
Over the last mile marker you soar, you never loved that beeping sound more.
.2 miles never felt longer, physically mentally, emotionally you're stronger.
-Angie Purvis
Let's go for a run!
Saturday, September 18, 2010
20 mile run
20 miles this morning. It's dark and cold right now. Hoping for good quality time with my heavenly Dad.
Let's go for a run!
Friday, September 17, 2010
Laura Ingalls
I've been sporting the French braid when I run, Derrick has been calling me Laura Ingalls, the girl from "Little House on the Prairie". Hey, when I was little both my sister and I wanted to wear a bonnet and apron and run down a hill of tall grass until we fell down.
I've figured out what to do with my mane for the long runs but still have a lot of questions. I'm still a very immature amateur when it come to running. Although I'm having a hard time believing anyone but my Mom is reading this stuff I am hoping to get some good advice from more experienced runners.
What am I supposed to eat morning of the race? I have a feeling I've been eating way too much before my long runs and then cramping up because of it.
Is there anything I can do to prevent cramping?
What about meds? I know some people take meds when they get up around mile 18 to finish strong. Is this a good idea or bad?
What am I supposed to wear? Thanks to Johns Run Walk Shop I realized that I've been wearing the wrong running shoe for about 5 years now. After having both feet measured 6 or 7 times each the baffled sales clerk said,
"Your right foot is a 8 1/2 and your left foot is a 9".
Not only am I an immature amateur, I'm a freak of nature. I like to blame my fraternal twin feet on pregnancy hormones. I finally figured out what kind of socks to wear. What kind of clothes should I wear? I know to avoid cotton. Can anyone help me? Mom......, what do you think?
Let's go for a run!
Thursday, September 16, 2010
They are PEOPLE!
Today I've been thinking about the Refuge for Women. I'm praying for the women and children who will call it their home. I'm praying that one day they will look back at the Refuge for Women and remember it as the best decision they ever made; the second chance that eternally redirected the course of their lives.
I'm also thinking about the men and women in the clubs that I've been blessed to befriend over the past few years. For anyone who has not personally built a friendship with someone in the adult entertainment industry and maybe even cringes at the idea I challenge you not to judge a book by it's cover.
I have heard some of the tragic, unjust stories of men and women in the industry; if I shared them the skeptical heart would be softened. Inside the walls of these buildings covered in neon lights are PEOPLE. They are people just like you and me, Mom's, Dad's, daughters, and sisters. They are people with souls, minds and hearts. They are people who hurt, many who were abandoned, many who were used and abused, many who have never had a fair shot to succeed in life. They are people with scars and broken dreams. They are people who need Jesus and need SOMEONE to show Him to them instead of being dismissed and ignored by Christians.
I am a different person for serving in this ministry. The change that has taken place in my heart is indescribable, yet familiar. This transformation is similar to the convicting feeling I recall after arriving home from a mission trip. True reality sets in and I'm aware that I need just as much help, if not more, than the people I was called to "serve". I'm so thankful for the greater understanding of God's GRACE and FORGIVENESS I've gained by doing something that challenged my faith. Think about it.
Let's go for a run!
I'm also thinking about the men and women in the clubs that I've been blessed to befriend over the past few years. For anyone who has not personally built a friendship with someone in the adult entertainment industry and maybe even cringes at the idea I challenge you not to judge a book by it's cover.
I have heard some of the tragic, unjust stories of men and women in the industry; if I shared them the skeptical heart would be softened. Inside the walls of these buildings covered in neon lights are PEOPLE. They are people just like you and me, Mom's, Dad's, daughters, and sisters. They are people with souls, minds and hearts. They are people who hurt, many who were abandoned, many who were used and abused, many who have never had a fair shot to succeed in life. They are people with scars and broken dreams. They are people who need Jesus and need SOMEONE to show Him to them instead of being dismissed and ignored by Christians.
I am a different person for serving in this ministry. The change that has taken place in my heart is indescribable, yet familiar. This transformation is similar to the convicting feeling I recall after arriving home from a mission trip. True reality sets in and I'm aware that I need just as much help, if not more, than the people I was called to "serve". I'm so thankful for the greater understanding of God's GRACE and FORGIVENESS I've gained by doing something that challenged my faith. Think about it.
Let's go for a run!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
40 miles
This is the biggest mileage week I will have throughout the rest of my training, race week included. 40 miles..... I know, it's insane. Yesterday was 5 mi., today is 10, tomorrow 5 again an my long run is 20 mi. on Saturday. I'm really excited that I'm coming down the home stretch.
I don't know about any of you runners out there but for me personally I think the worst of the hard work is over with before race day. The 20 miler is a killer because you don't have the Gatorade at every mile or fans to cheer you on. You don't have an angel holding a giant slab if Vaseline on a piece of cardboard. You don't hear music cranked up, live bands or cow bells.
I can't believe some of you nuts get up to 22 mi.+ on your long runs in your training! I won't even mention the ultra marathon nuts.... Just joking I really admire you for being nuts and hope to become more nuts in the years to come. I follow Hal Higdon's NOVICE 1 training schedule. I really think I would die if I even tried to jump up to novice 2. Novice 1 got me through my first marathon.
I will say that in my first race I hit a brick wall physically, mentally and emotionally soon after mile 24. I honestly thought it was impossible to go even 2 more. I was so delirious at that point, if it weren't for Derrick who came up running behind me with gels and encouragement I would have walked a lot more those last 2 miles.
He was there just when I needed him and the funny thing is neither of us could have planned it that way. Neither of us knew before the race when I would hit my "breaking point". I wonder if it will be mile 24 again this time? It's at this "breaking point" that I will once again have to decide that I WILL NOT GIVE UP even if I have to crawl over the finish line. Just wondering WHAT is up with the .2? Does anybody know? It's nothing but a smack in the face after hobbling over the 26th mile.
Let's go for a run!
I don't know about any of you runners out there but for me personally I think the worst of the hard work is over with before race day. The 20 miler is a killer because you don't have the Gatorade at every mile or fans to cheer you on. You don't have an angel holding a giant slab if Vaseline on a piece of cardboard. You don't hear music cranked up, live bands or cow bells.
I can't believe some of you nuts get up to 22 mi.+ on your long runs in your training! I won't even mention the ultra marathon nuts.... Just joking I really admire you for being nuts and hope to become more nuts in the years to come. I follow Hal Higdon's NOVICE 1 training schedule. I really think I would die if I even tried to jump up to novice 2. Novice 1 got me through my first marathon.
I will say that in my first race I hit a brick wall physically, mentally and emotionally soon after mile 24. I honestly thought it was impossible to go even 2 more. I was so delirious at that point, if it weren't for Derrick who came up running behind me with gels and encouragement I would have walked a lot more those last 2 miles.
He was there just when I needed him and the funny thing is neither of us could have planned it that way. Neither of us knew before the race when I would hit my "breaking point". I wonder if it will be mile 24 again this time? It's at this "breaking point" that I will once again have to decide that I WILL NOT GIVE UP even if I have to crawl over the finish line. Just wondering WHAT is up with the .2? Does anybody know? It's nothing but a smack in the face after hobbling over the 26th mile.
Let's go for a run!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
"she will not fall"
This past week I began to feel like I couldn't possibly try any harder to succeed at every aspect of my life but couldn't be failing all together any worse. After feeling overwhelmed I finally surrender. In my own words it's usually,
"I can't do this, I give up". Not the marathon of course, this is just a phrase I tend to say when I feel like I'm at the end of my rope. I surrender and "give up" my illusion of being in control of my life.
The ton of bricks is lifted from my back and I ask myself.
"Why in the WORLD did I try to carry that ton of bricks? What an idiot!"
I realize someone much stronger has been walking beside me asking if I need help with those bricks. Thank you Jesus that you haven't left us un this world to carry our own bricks! Thank you Jesus that you don't scold us when we screw up or distrust you. Thank you Jesus that you never ask us to try harder, work more, or do better. You gently ask.
"Need a hand with those bricks? They look really heavy."
Yes LORD I need a MIGHTY hand! I trust you.
Psalm 46:10
"God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.
Let's go for a run!
"I can't do this, I give up". Not the marathon of course, this is just a phrase I tend to say when I feel like I'm at the end of my rope. I surrender and "give up" my illusion of being in control of my life.
The ton of bricks is lifted from my back and I ask myself.
"Why in the WORLD did I try to carry that ton of bricks? What an idiot!"
I realize someone much stronger has been walking beside me asking if I need help with those bricks. Thank you Jesus that you haven't left us un this world to carry our own bricks! Thank you Jesus that you don't scold us when we screw up or distrust you. Thank you Jesus that you never ask us to try harder, work more, or do better. You gently ask.
"Need a hand with those bricks? They look really heavy."
Yes LORD I need a MIGHTY hand! I trust you.
Psalm 46:10
"God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.
Let's go for a run!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
9 mile treadmill run
Today and yesterday I've run a total of 14 miles on the treadmill, 9 yesterday and 5 today. This is definitely a last resort for me. My schedule is all messed up this week due to being sick and going out o town Friday. I don't mind the heat, cold, rain, or even snow as much as the treadmill. Don't get me wrong I am so thankful for the treadmill. In my personal opinion training for a marathon without one would be risky, especially since I don't belong to a gym. 10 miles is the most I've run on the treadmill and it feels like an eternity. One bonus of the treadmill is that it is good mental training in boredom.
We bought our treadmill about 5 years ago right before my first mini. It was on sale at Sears, one of the cheapest treadmills you can find. I've trained for 2 mini's and now 2 full's on the Weslo Cadence 78e. It's been good to me, although today it started squeaking and smelling a bit like melted plastic.
Some women dream of driving a fancy car and I agree that would be kind of fun, but I would choose a top of the line treadmill over a fancy car if I had to choose. Or maybe I would take the car sell it and buy a nice treadmill and give the rest to the Refuge for Women.
Some women dream of wearing designer clothes and diamonds. My dream would be to have a wardrobe of running clothes for every season as well as accessories, (running accessories) that is. However, Derrick did spoil me rotten and let me buy 2 new pairs of running shoes this spring.
Let's go for a run! OUTSIDE!!
We bought our treadmill about 5 years ago right before my first mini. It was on sale at Sears, one of the cheapest treadmills you can find. I've trained for 2 mini's and now 2 full's on the Weslo Cadence 78e. It's been good to me, although today it started squeaking and smelling a bit like melted plastic.
Some women dream of driving a fancy car and I agree that would be kind of fun, but I would choose a top of the line treadmill over a fancy car if I had to choose. Or maybe I would take the car sell it and buy a nice treadmill and give the rest to the Refuge for Women.
Some women dream of wearing designer clothes and diamonds. My dream would be to have a wardrobe of running clothes for every season as well as accessories, (running accessories) that is. However, Derrick did spoil me rotten and let me buy 2 new pairs of running shoes this spring.
Let's go for a run! OUTSIDE!!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Race T's
Don't you love your race T-shirts? I love mine. I've only run one full marathon and 2 mini's but I hope to some day have a whole drawer full of race shirts. I remember wearing my T-shirt from my first half for almost a week straight soon after Clive (my second) was born. It's tough post baby being unable to run for 6 weeks, not that I would have been capable. I remember somehow that gross shirt gave me hope. Not hope in the shirt itself, running, or even hope in myself. I found hope in someone bigger and stronger than myself, I found hope in the fact that...
"I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13.
I was reminded of that verse every time I looked at my race shirt. I
trusted that I could take care of 2 babies, I could figure out how to get all of that laundry done, I could get the bills done, I could be a good wife, all through Christ who strengthens me.
That verse along with Nehemiah 8:10 have been my life line through hard times.
Nehemiah 8:10 says,
"The joy of the LORD is your strength."
Let's go for a run!
"I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13.
I was reminded of that verse every time I looked at my race shirt. I
trusted that I could take care of 2 babies, I could figure out how to get all of that laundry done, I could get the bills done, I could be a good wife, all through Christ who strengthens me.
That verse along with Nehemiah 8:10 have been my life line through hard times.
Nehemiah 8:10 says,
"The joy of the LORD is your strength."
Let's go for a run!
Sunday, September 5, 2010
18 miler
Yesterday, September 4th was an 18 mile long run. It's been almost 3 years since my first full marathon and this past winter I had a stress fracture that kept me from running for several months. With each long run that jumps up in distance I'm encouraged as I think to myself, "This is the most I've run in 3 years, not too bad a stress fracture and baby later." I got up at 5:30 to eat, stretch and get ready for my big run and decided to read a page from one of my favorite books My Utmost for his Highest by Oswald Chambers. It was really inspiring because it was about prayer and my favorite thing to do when I run is pray.
Chambers states, "The correct concept is to think of prayer as the breath in our lungs and the blood from our hearts."
How cool is that! If anyone were to spy on me while I run I'm sure they would think I'm a lunatic, talking to the horses I pass and randomly lifting my hands or pointing to the sky. I don't care though, even if someone were to see me. Running is a time of prayer and worship for me.
1 Timothy 4:8 says,
"Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more important, for it promises a reward in both this life and the next."
This verse is a great reminder for me not to stay focused on what's really important. Us runners can get competitive and let a stop watch make or break our run. We can turn running into a task or number to cross off of the training schedule and miss out on having fun. I know I often have the tendency to do those things. My best runs are when I take no watch or music and have no distractions. I'm often surprised to see the clock when I finish and realize I made my best time ever because I wasn't trying. I was just having fun. For me running races is not about my time but about finishing.
Chambers states, "The correct concept is to think of prayer as the breath in our lungs and the blood from our hearts."
How cool is that! If anyone were to spy on me while I run I'm sure they would think I'm a lunatic, talking to the horses I pass and randomly lifting my hands or pointing to the sky. I don't care though, even if someone were to see me. Running is a time of prayer and worship for me.
1 Timothy 4:8 says,
"Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more important, for it promises a reward in both this life and the next."
This verse is a great reminder for me not to stay focused on what's really important. Us runners can get competitive and let a stop watch make or break our run. We can turn running into a task or number to cross off of the training schedule and miss out on having fun. I know I often have the tendency to do those things. My best runs are when I take no watch or music and have no distractions. I'm often surprised to see the clock when I finish and realize I made my best time ever because I wasn't trying. I was just having fun. For me running races is not about my time but about finishing.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Support Letter
Dear friends and family,
I am so excited to share with you that I will be partnering with Running for the Refuge by running in Cleveland Ohio’s Towpath marathon on October 10th. As you know I’ve been an athlete my whole life and love to run. I felt called to run for a purpose other than a personal goal and raise support for a ministry that is very dear to my heart.
I am honored to say that for almost 3 years now I have been serving for a ministry at my church that aspires to bring hope to the people in the adult entertainment industry. It all started about 5 years ago when a few women felt convicted to share the love and grace of Jesus Christ with the exotic dancers at a local strip club. Through much prayer and remembering how Jesus always met a physical need for those to whom he ministered the ladies came up with a plan to take a home cooked meal into the club. Many of the club employees have told us that Wednesday nights are the only time they get a home cooked meal. We now minister to 5 local clubs and consists of a cooking team, prayer team, delivery team and security team.
With much perseverance the team petitioned asking the Lord to provide a home where women who wanted to leave the adult entertainment industry could heal and start a new life. Volunteers came forward, gave generously, and a wonderful family donated their farmhouse to become the Refuge for Women.
Soon after, Running for the Refuge took off when a precious woman found herself working through the grief of divorce and the pressures of life as a single mom. Taryn Stone had the courage to ask God how she could help this ministry and the renovation process that was taking place at the farmhouse. She felt led to run a marathon in hopes of raising awareness, prayer and financial support. As Taryn passes on the baton I am thrilled to run for the refuge. My passion for being a light in the darkness and running collide, I can’t think of a more fun way to make a difference.
If you feel prompted to support me as I run 26.2 miles I want to humbly ask you to pray about this letter. Pray for the ministries I’ve shared with you. I also want to challenge you to ask God how you can help. It’s not about me but I could sure use prayer throughout the rest of my training as well as on the day of the race. To stay updated through the rest of my training and to learn more about my involvement with Running for the Refuge check out my blog. I will be posting entries as often as I can to let you know what an impact we are making!
The Refuge for Women is a nonprofit organization for which people have given up more comfortable jobs in order to follow God’s will and work for this cause. They need financial support to keep the life-change coming. Would you be willing to make a donation? Would you pledge a specific amount of money per mile I will run? The Refuge will be hosting their annual banquet October 12 just 2 days after the marathon and would be honored to announce how much money was raised in my race. If you wish to give, it would be very helpful for your donation to be mailed by October 8th. Please make all checks payable to Refuge for Women. To keep track of the amount raised in my marathon, please write Running for Refuge in the memo of the check. If you wish to receive a copy of this letter along with an addressed giving envelope, send me your home address and I will get it in the mail.
Why should you help? I have learned over the past few years that this ministry is a reflection of the parable of the lost sheep.
Luke 15:4-7 tells a story about a lost sheep within the flock.
“Suppose one of you had a hundred sheep and lost one. Wouldn’t you leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the lost one until you found it? When found, you can be sure you would put it across your shoulders, rejoicing, and when you got home call in your friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Celebrate with me! I’ve found my lost sheep!’ Count on it—there’s more joy in heaven over one sinner’s rescued life than over ninety-nine good people in no need of rescue.
Although I was never an exotic dancer I was definitely a lost sheep. The enemy tried to steal, kill and destroy my life with drugs and alcohol and nearly succeeded. On many levels I can sympathize with these lost sheep in the strip clubs. If it were not for many of you who came after me to pray and love me back into the flock, I would not be writing this letter today. I have seen, first hand, men and women come out of the clubs. I have seen them leave their lives of sin and join the flock in the waters of baptism. I am brought to tears when I think about the grace and love God has lavished on me. Your help can get that message to others.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this letter.
Sincerely,
Angie Purvis www.angieruns.blogspot.com
Refuge for Women
342 Waller Avenue Suite D
Lexington, KY
40503
“I once was lost but now I’m FOUND”
Friday, September 3, 2010
Top 10
Top 10 favorite runners
1) Michael Scott- the Office
2) Forest Gump
3) Jean-Paul- Seinfeld
4) Jerry Seinfeld- the race
5) Todd- Christmas Vacation
6) Margo- Christmas Vacation
7) Ron Burgundy- Anchorman
8) Tommy Boy- chasing the bus
9) Run DMC- that's for you T
10) Alison- girl from "Yes Man"
Does anybody know where I can get a jogging ensemble like Todd and Margo's?
Let's go for a run!
1) Michael Scott- the Office
2) Forest Gump
3) Jean-Paul- Seinfeld
4) Jerry Seinfeld- the race
5) Todd- Christmas Vacation
6) Margo- Christmas Vacation
7) Ron Burgundy- Anchorman
8) Tommy Boy- chasing the bus
9) Run DMC- that's for you T
10) Alison- girl from "Yes Man"
Does anybody know where I can get a jogging ensemble like Todd and Margo's?
Let's go for a run!
Hollaaa!
I just wanted to give a shout out to my friend Taryn who inspired to pick up where she left off after her marathon last year. I am so honored to partner with Running for the Refuge. As Taryn passes on the baton I want to encourage everyone to check out her blog to learn how how Running for the Refuge began. www.tarynhopes4.blogspot.com You can also check out Running for the Refuge on Face Book.
Let's go for a run!
Let's go for a run!
Our church does what?
"Babe, you will not BELIEVE what our church does! It's so cool!"
'okay, what?'
"A group of ladies felt like God wanted them to share His love and grace with the employees at a local strip club. They prayed about what to do and remembered how Jesus always met the physical needs of people before meeting other needs. With that they decided to make a home cooked meal to take and serve in the club."
'WOW! Can I do it?'
This ministry now shares God's love with the employees of 5 strip clubs in the area. As opportunities arose to really help the club employees we felt lead to pray that God would provide a home for exotic dancers who wished to leave the adult entertainment industry.
Words cannot describe how dear this organization is to my heart. The Refuge for Women for so many years was a fervent prayer, a hope, a vision of greater things to come. God answered our prayers and more. Volunteers came forward, people gave generously, a house was donated, renovated, painted and decorated.
This is a non profit organization in which people have left more comfortable jobs to follow God's will and work for the Refuge for Women. To keep life change happening the Refuge for Women ultimately depends on God's provision but they also depend on the generosity of people who are willing to give financial support. Derrick and I give what we can, and it's not as much as we wish to give but I can run. This is why I have chosen to raise support for the Refuge for Women by running a marathon. Check out www.refugeforwomen.org. You can also find them on Face Book.
Let's go for a run!
'okay, what?'
"A group of ladies felt like God wanted them to share His love and grace with the employees at a local strip club. They prayed about what to do and remembered how Jesus always met the physical needs of people before meeting other needs. With that they decided to make a home cooked meal to take and serve in the club."
'WOW! Can I do it?'
This ministry now shares God's love with the employees of 5 strip clubs in the area. As opportunities arose to really help the club employees we felt lead to pray that God would provide a home for exotic dancers who wished to leave the adult entertainment industry.
Words cannot describe how dear this organization is to my heart. The Refuge for Women for so many years was a fervent prayer, a hope, a vision of greater things to come. God answered our prayers and more. Volunteers came forward, people gave generously, a house was donated, renovated, painted and decorated.
This is a non profit organization in which people have left more comfortable jobs to follow God's will and work for the Refuge for Women. To keep life change happening the Refuge for Women ultimately depends on God's provision but they also depend on the generosity of people who are willing to give financial support. Derrick and I give what we can, and it's not as much as we wish to give but I can run. This is why I have chosen to raise support for the Refuge for Women by running a marathon. Check out www.refugeforwomen.org. You can also find them on Face Book.
Let's go for a run!
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Perpetual People Pleasing Pandaemonium
"Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people." Colossians 3:24
This verse was really encouraging to me this morning. I've been reflecting a lot about the concept of what God thinks of me. I hate to admit that I'm by nature a people pleaser. I don't want to let anyone down.
I pridefully think I can do it all. I've heard people say "God won't give you more than you can handle." Have you ever heard that? I think we can take on more than we can handle.
If I stay focused and work with one desire to please the Lord I won't fall into the people pleasing mindset.
I also love Galatians 6:5
"Don't be impressed with yourself. Don't compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life."
This reminds me to find my identity, value, worth and purpose in Jesus not in abilities or the lack there of.
This verse was really encouraging to me this morning. I've been reflecting a lot about the concept of what God thinks of me. I hate to admit that I'm by nature a people pleaser. I don't want to let anyone down.
I pridefully think I can do it all. I've heard people say "God won't give you more than you can handle." Have you ever heard that? I think we can take on more than we can handle.
If I stay focused and work with one desire to please the Lord I won't fall into the people pleasing mindset.
I also love Galatians 6:5
"Don't be impressed with yourself. Don't compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life."
This reminds me to find my identity, value, worth and purpose in Jesus not in abilities or the lack there of.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Shoe Strings
The sleep deprived Mom of a restless infant decided to jump on the treadmill to zone out. Being discouraged with herself she desperately asked God.
"What in the world am I doing? I work so hard but does anything I do make a difference?"
She struggled with feeling insignificant. Her husbands big event was coming up at work. He would hit it out of the park as usual and receive much praise while she wiped a poopy butt. She compared herself to other Mom's who also seemed to be doing so well and appeared to have it all together.
"Please God let me know I'm important too." She plead through sobs.
She proceeded to step off of the treadmill feeling foolish for expecting some kind of an answer. As she untied her shoe strings the Spirit inside of her said.
'You are shoe strings'
At this point she was just mad thinking she really might really be losing it. Out of curiosity she took them in her hands, stared at them an began to think about the purpose of shoestrings. They are nothing but a bunch of threads woven together. They are cheap. Pretty insignificant right?
'Wrong!, The shoestrings resemble you, the shoe resembles your husband, the body of the runner resembles your church, the Head is Me. I have a plan and I need your help but you have to find your purpose and value in me. You have to be okay with being shoestrings. Think about them. They hold the shoe together. Without shoestrings a 100 dollar pair of running shoes is worthless. You are shoestrings, you hold it all together. Without you, your husband, family and church would suffer. You are extremely important.'
"Thanks God! She said with a whole new outlook."
"What in the world am I doing? I work so hard but does anything I do make a difference?"
She struggled with feeling insignificant. Her husbands big event was coming up at work. He would hit it out of the park as usual and receive much praise while she wiped a poopy butt. She compared herself to other Mom's who also seemed to be doing so well and appeared to have it all together.
"Please God let me know I'm important too." She plead through sobs.
She proceeded to step off of the treadmill feeling foolish for expecting some kind of an answer. As she untied her shoe strings the Spirit inside of her said.
'You are shoe strings'
At this point she was just mad thinking she really might really be losing it. Out of curiosity she took them in her hands, stared at them an began to think about the purpose of shoestrings. They are nothing but a bunch of threads woven together. They are cheap. Pretty insignificant right?
'Wrong!, The shoestrings resemble you, the shoe resembles your husband, the body of the runner resembles your church, the Head is Me. I have a plan and I need your help but you have to find your purpose and value in me. You have to be okay with being shoestrings. Think about them. They hold the shoe together. Without shoestrings a 100 dollar pair of running shoes is worthless. You are shoestrings, you hold it all together. Without you, your husband, family and church would suffer. You are extremely important.'
"Thanks God! She said with a whole new outlook."
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