2 Corinthians 12:9-10

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee:
 

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for my strength is made perfect in weakness. 

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Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 

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Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: 

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for when I am weak, then am I strong.

the wild, wonderful SAICFF: through the eyes of. . .me. {part 1}

and all i learned. i'm beginning to believe the infamous "ziggy cloud" (you know, as in the comic strip?) that forever follows my mom must be hereditary. in other words, tragedy and embarrassing moments and calamity and. . .well, it's a part of being michaela. or my mothers daughter. haha--love ya, mom!

 

{via} our group walking the convention hall on Thursday

• it's possible to accomplish multiple over-nighters without dying. 
• one can go for hours--even days--on zero coffee. also without dying. 
• passionate, die-hard fans of 'the high kings' can tolerate 'celtic thunder'. it's blasphemy, but true. this was after much controversy and denial. pouting while secretly wishing 'bird without wings' would play just one more time. *ahem* block out the grating voices of paul and ryan, and. . .i  might be a semi-"thunderhead". 
• 'san antonio' is usually pronounced "s-An An-tonio." must be the italian in me, because it's "Ahn-tonio." thank you. 
• joshua phillips listens to (speaking of,) THK. 
• ball bearings are tiny pieces of metal. they should be smooth. otherwise near-death experiences occur.
• i was born in the wrong state. 'seven days in utopia' confirmed that. i'd pack my bags in a heartbeat for the land of drawls, country charm, ranch life--and never look back on OH. if  i could take my puppy, parents, and a sister or four. OR marry my handsome cowboy. 
• the river walk is gorgeous--a twist of Mexican/Spanish/European. . .floating with romantic music, the aroma of food, flocked with tourists. . .and filled with crime. laptops left in open view WILL be stolen. huh, so that's what all that glass was about. i was wondering why the guys left the van window open. . .
• blogger ppls are even more awesome in real life. 
• even borrowed, [PINK] over sized, Walmart-inspired sweatshirts can make one feel like a princess.
• giving up a blueberry bagel sandwich to a homeless man is very fulfilling.
• packing for a trip to texas is hard. layers are important. remembering to wear warm clothes when the weather shifts from 70's to 50's is imperative. sundresses don't count. (guess what i did?) 
• i cannot sleep in people-loaded vans. or on overnight road trips. period. fist-fulls of m&m's don't help. especially when the entire van-load is ingesting them. sugar-high, anyone? 
• movies are fun. fellowship, new experiences, and special friends are better.
• ray comfort has a great sense of humor. "wow, you make me feel tall." 
• camera's should be attached at the hip--always. otherwise they might be left five hours away in a strangers home. . .
• 'courageous' is one of my favorite movies--the third time through and i still cried. nothing--no other movie could possibly beat it, right? until i saw 'seasons of gray.' review coming asap.
• Walmart can be a lifesaver. no, i didn't just say that.
• sitting at the phillips house in the phillps living room on the phillips couch is breathtaking.
• "pumpkin head" is dutch for "slap-happy".
• vacations are great weight-loss programs.
• truly gentlemanly, chivalrous young men are hard to find. i traveled with several. it makes a girl feel good to know her brothers in Christ go above and beyond to honor and protect. 
• messy hair, bad breath, and wrinkled clothes = serious bonding. getting used to the humiliation is another matter. 
• pumpkin-headed people, 5:00 AM, and intense conversation = priceless memories.
• y'all is a cute word.
• i plan on attending the festival next year.
• most importantly, we saw the work of our Lord's hand through everything that happened--the perfectly orchestrated events that without Him, left us powerless. to God be the Glory!!

and that's just a brief overview. . .some of the less-important points i just had to share. the little tidbits that often mean the most. i haven't even touched on our epic van breakdown. WHY we visited the phillips house. charlie zahm's concert on the river walk. celebrating a friends birthday at an outdoor Mexican restaurant. the rescue of stranded travelers at 2:30 AM. the horrible feeling after realizing that wait, i left my newly ordered eShakti dress in the hotel room--and here i am, sitting in the theater on the awards night. . .in casual clothes. the glories of stopping at gas stations for breaks and snacks. hey, a 25 hour drive dulls the mind.

 

thanks to all my wonderful guest posters! weren't they fantastic? keep the comments coming, and don't forget to check out/follow their blogs. hmm. . .already scheming up a new guest-series. 

a few things i've learned since getting home: 

• there is something inside just begging for purpose--a ministry. a vision. i'm waiting on Him to show me exactly what that means.
• singleness isn't a bad thing. the Lord has opened up so many doors in this season of life. i'm enjoying every minute, thanking Him for past and future adventures. it's rather exciting. 
• movie-making is interesting. luckily i know several people in the independent film industry. . . 
• it hurts to return to the snow-lands. spring, hear my call!
• the spring clothing at 'old navy' is loverly this year. peach, mustard, lavender, turquoise, mud, mandarin, cream . .mmm. my mom is having 80's flash-backs. . .i'm loving the feminine look. and the peasant tops. and the maxi skirts. it's possible to shop and actually find girly-clothing! 

Honoring + obedience--they work together

There is a sanctuary in writing. Right now I am very excited about a Christian writers website that is in the works; for those of you who'd rather read my "Spiritual" take on life, you can go there--Lord willing some of my articles will be published. For now. . .everyone who voted "random ramblings" in the sidebar poll with have to deal with my deeper thoughts. ;)

Obedience. Honor. Submission. All these words have something in common, a connecting thread. We are taught from childhood to obey, honor, and yes, submit to our parents. But why do we do it? At times as a young adult I find myself struggling to simply obey--the little four letter word that often means turning against my now "adult" mind. It's not that I don't honor my parents. I live under my fathers roof, I pledge my heart to him. . .but wait. One can't honor without obedience. My dad is my God-given lord. He isn't called to overbear or rule with an iron fist. Through experience I know he requires basics that are followed by everyone in the household. Not very difficult; I follow the rules. . .Biblically the Lord commands me to yield. But there is so much more to the bigger picture--I don't obey because my father has forced me into submission, I don't even obey because I need too; I obey because I honor him.

In our modern culture, and even in Christian circles, young people, particularly young ladies, are thought "overly sheltered" if there are certain guidelines followed within the home. "What? You aren't allowed to date? You don't watch rated R movies? Not even most PG13 ones? Ok sure, you're dad taught you that way, but listen, it's time to come out of the box. . .you're nearly 21! Talk about a control freak father." Wrong.

Here's why:

1. My dad loves me with all his heart. I don't believe that simply because he says so. . .it's obvious in his treatment, his protection and care for my well-fare. Dad's been around the block a few times more--he's viewpoint isn't control, it's experience.

2. Notice the word "viewpoint" in the above sentence? My father doesn't force convictions on me. Keyword, conviction. There actually is a difference between "tradition" and "conviction," just sayin'. . .different topic. There is nothing more special to me than my dad's advice. Recently I went to him with something that was bothering me. His answer? "I would't do it, but I can't make that decision for you." He wouldn't do it. I see his testimony, I watch his lifestyle--it means the world to me. Why wouldn't I take his advice? There was no command, no force, but I chose to heed his council.

3. This "way of life" has become my own. As a child I did everything in the footsteps of my parents. Hey, they wanted me to, and I'd probably get spanked otherwise (which happened often, we are talking to a strong willed gal here!) Now, as I've matured in my walk, made it personal, swam through oceans of trials, I've seen that their way is HIS way. It actually, really works! Thankfully I never went through a serious "wandering" time. . .the Lord showed me these things gradually yet instantly as I grew. There is no room to doubt. When outsiders look in they see a 21 year old girl still living at home, LISTENING TO HER FATHER, heaven forbid, and doing weird, "old fashioned" things. Hate to break it to you, but this isn't the result of control. . .I want to live as I live. And gasp, I honor my upbringing.

With all this in mind, I do struggle. There are times when my will cries, "but dad, mom, I'm turning 21 in less then a month! A month, did you hear that?" Then God slams me in the face with the reality of His Word. It's rather chilling how He hand picks verses just when I need them. When I'm doubting. . .when "everyone else" assures me I'm wrong--that my parents are wrong. If you ask me these folks need to examine their hearts. Take the plank out of you're own eye!

Conviction and what it entails--the persecution is often evokes, seems to be a common topic here lately. Well. . .my heart has been so full because of recent trials, and when there are trials, what a better place to vent then one's blog? And in the process I want to encourage my readers. . I hope it's working! Guess what--no matter who you're father is, no matter how old you are, who you are--dad is always right. I love my dad with every ounce of my being, and I'm GOING to honor him! Remember, honor and obedience go hand in hand. It's worthless to honor without it's partner; "honor" and only "honor" is taking the cowards road, the--"well, I'm asked to do it. . .and I live here, so I do it"--road of self pity. Finding that contentment in Christ, and better yet, realizing that this obedience stuff actually has a point--will make that winding Walk straighter. Follow HIM!

When dreams come true {mid a few lessons learnt}

These past two months have been full of twisting, turning roads; some leading through darkness, others marching onward toward contented peace. It has been a beautiful autumn of cold-nipped cheeks, photo shoots with friends, long frilly costumes, hours spent sipping mocha's, the cozy hub of a favorite coffee shop, two adorable twins to nanny, Little House on the Prairie, and Spiritual growth. Maybe now you'll understand why I haven't blogged; which reminds me. I had no idea 'Like Pearls Slipping off a String' was nominated for the home school blog awards! o.O Thank you to all who've voted and are now following.

Very exciting .  . .and we're pushing closer to the 200 mark. Did someone say giveaway?

 

sneak peak of the my gorgeous sisters senior photo shoot, taken by moi. isn't she stunning? 

I am at a point in life when Jesus feels especially close; I'm embarking on my 21st year, and there is a new confidence in the way I see the world that is truly thrilling. My head is held a little higher, and recent trials have only strengthened my Walk. It's been a roller-coaster of lessons that compared to the past were easier to handle; I will never back down. People may mock, they may criticize and misunderstand  - but I am who I am in Christ. My way isn't the only way - it probably isn't even the right way, but it's the way in which HE is guiding me. The turmoil of my soul is cleansed, for He is my Victory, my Life, my Joy, my All. I will not fear what man will do unto me!! It's all very inspiring. . . good things are coming. *Amazing* things are here. ♥

‎"Ill take character over reputation. Your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are."

On to more lighthearted things. My mind is swarming with all the business, all the simple beauty of LIFE. And I've officially decided that fall is my favorite season. I mean, when else can I wear my favorite poncho? Sitting with Anna in Coolbeans is rejuvenating - ( the most heart-stopping little coffee shop on the planet. It's so whimsical and perfect. . .a girls haunt that is haunted by two certain sisters at least once a week or more.) I don't know if I've mentioned lately, but! we were hired as part-time nannies again. It seriously is a dream-job. . .who could resist two scrumptious little 15 month olds, boy and girl, with names like Aaron and Kendall? I mean, seriously love the name Kendall. It's so Celtic and bookish. Plus she is adorable, chubby, and FUN. Aaron is a little snuggle bug. . .I think I need to bring a camera next work day.

speaking of happiness. . .i found this incredible little cap at a consignment shop. ok, so i love caps--hats of all kinds. . .bu t this one is from SCOTLAND. Its actually *British* really and truly. how could i pass it up?

I'm sitting here trying to place the fullness of my heart. It is bounded in every direction - singing, crying, dancing, planning, scheming, DREAMING. Because Neverland is real. Bcause like my sister wrote today on facebook: "but we go to to Neverland all the time--anywhere we travel in dreams and imaginations IS Neverland. That's the awesome part. Neverland IS every kid's (or in our case, grown up kid's ;) ) imagination. And basically, people who don't believe in it are simply not kindred spirits. . ."

Think happy thoughts. 

He loves me, he loves me not. . .

I spent this weekend with two of my bestest friends: my mom and sis, Anna. Thinking back, I learned two very important things. . .

1. Coming in late at my grandparents house means breaded eggplant, fried peppers, and homemade sausage - to be eaten in the dark with fingers at 11:00 PM by three majorly slap-happy women.
2. Coffee and organic, DARK (super caffeinated dark,) chocolate taken together is dangerous. 

Both experiences = amazing fun, lots of obnoxious laughter, and sour stomachs. Just sayin'. 

But most importantly, I spent a refreshing weekend with like-minded girls and mothers from around the country, brought together by one source: a Radiant Purity conference (Sarah Mally. Note that I do not necessarily endorse all her teachings.) Though I was already familiar with all the ideas/thought process/material presented, I came away with a full heart, encouraged . . .knowing that WHO I am in the Lord, WHAT I am in the Lord, matters to HIM, matters to my future (unknown) "Prince". . .and that I need not fear what the world thinks of me. 

Before I continue, this question has been circulating through my mind: why are people with standards so harshly judged? Why are people who believe in courtship dubbed "Josh Harris followers"?  Why are ladies who wear skirts for modesty and femininity reasons called "legalistic"?  Yes we have freedom in Christ, yes everyone has different views/opinions on Christianity, but please, please don't mock those who choose to be "different", or "peculiar" according to the worlds ideals. I am not "more holy" or a better Christian because I dress differently or choose to "wait" for the right man. However it hurts - more - when a fellow believer mocks. . .when they are closed minded. 

This article is taking a slightly different path then I planned. ;) When it comes to "my skirts", I like to tell inquirers that while I could go through the whole "modesty spiel", (or at least my interpretation of modesty,) my primary reason is simply one, very obvious, very valid fact: I feel beautiful. 

The worldview of most Christian women is one of supreme respect for our male heads; our leaders. The thought of someday sitting under the man God has crafted, selected just for me is thrilling. And why do we appreciate men? For their masculinity. .. this is what makes a man a MAN, this is what attracts us to them. Skirts are feminine, they flow, swirl, swish. . .instantly transform me into a princess - a GIRL. A woman who wants to stand out. I want to be radical, different, a light in our world. 

Most folks assume that words such as "waiting," "purity," and "courtship" surround a small  percentage of girls who aren't allowed to associate with men - even speak with them. . .the type that run for the nearest corner if a young man looks in their direction. "Oooh . . .he MUST be interested in me. What do I do? Daaadddd???" 

WRONG. Personally, I'd rather be friends with guys then girls. Honestly and truly. Guys balance things out. . .they add a fun, manly dimension to a group setting. . .and they aren't catty. There's no peer pressure. They accept me (usually) for who I am - no jealously, no conditions. And they are no more then FRIENDS. If anything, being friends with guys has taught me NOT to jump at every man as "a potential".  When talking and even English Country dancing  in a mixed group setting, I am able to assess character. . .work on that "check list" of no-no's and absolutes. Not that I'm pouring out my deepest secrets to guys! o.O Of course not. . . but I think there is a level of respect in a friendship when a girl isn't desperate, treating each male friend as a human being. . .a brother, a friend. Nothing more. Never assuming anything.

What is my point in all this? I don't know. Really, it HAD one, before I began writing. ;) Now its full of rambling, non-related topics. My thoughts poured out for your sorting. 

Conviction. It truly sums this mess together. We all have different stands. . .different concepts our Jesus placed especially on our hearts. As a testimonial this weekend reminded, ignoring a conviction deadens us to sin. Never ignore that still, small voice pulling at your heart. And listen, listen for His call to you. "Waiting" is such a beautiful thing. . .sharing so many "firsts" with that special someone. We can be friends with guys within limits - but girls, don't become desperate. The Lord will bring you your Prince in His time. Not "God's best" but "God's Choice."

There is a difference. 

"He loves me, he loves me not." Christ loves you, He is our all in all. Lets focus on HIM, stop judging each other. Lets celebrate being WOMEN and MEN of God. 

For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. - Psalms 84:11

Please note that skirt-wearing is simply my personal preference. I see them as more modest then pants, however, if pants are modest for YOU, and if your dad agrees, I do not judge you! (and yes, they can be feminine. :) ) I do not want to sound like "I have the answers", or holier-then-thou. Again, just my view of things.

The greatest gift I ever had Came from God;

{this pic was taken on the gorgeous Oregon coast. L-R: me, dad - Dave, & Anna}

 I call him Dad.

 - Author Unknown

There aren't words enough to say how much I love my father - how important he is in everything I do . . .all through my growing up years, and now as a young woman. My daddy has my heart, a treasure I wish every girl could own. A girl *needs* a father figure in her life - and I've always had the very best. I mean, think about it - my dad's an unusually strong guy . . . (aside from his muscles, ;) ) he's the father of five daughters. ;) Over the years many people have "sympathized": "WHAT??? Did you say ALL girls?  I'm so sorry." - but truly, my dad LOVES all of his his daughters with every ounce of his being, and ya know, he's become rather a "softy" because of it. Coming from a one-time rigid military man. . .that's more then impressive. ;)

My father has brought our family through so many trials with his unmovable faith in Christ Jesus. (yes, I'm gushing, but really, I don't know any other man with as much wisdom, Biblical knowledge, or love for the Lord.) On a personal level, dad is my role model (along with my mom,) teacher, counselor, confidant, inspiration, buddy, best friend. I couldn't describe the sort of man of God he is. Thank you Lord for my daddy - a man I look up to, the person I learn so much from . . .my greatest hero.

 ♥ ♥ I love you, Dad!!!! ♥ ♥

How to keep from having a broken heart

"To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal.  

Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements; lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket- safe, dark, motionless, airless--it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable."

~ C.S. Lewis

The Ohio Summer Rendezvous 2010 "trailer." (Yes - it's THAT good.)

30 home school graduates.  

Fellowship. 

God's obvious presence. 

Worship. 

Blessing in abundance.

Bonding. 

Old friendships strengthened. 

New friendships made. 

A weekend of *~

...adventure...laughter...singing...music...good food...games..."Do You Love Your Neighbor?"... edifying conversation...hiking...talent show...English Country Dancing...costumes...cowboy hats...bonfires...autograph albums...

...priceless memories.

Ohio Summer Rendezvous 2010. 

This was the second home school grad gathering my family hosted in 2010, affectionately known as "The Rendezvous". Both events have left me stunned by God's faithfulness - He so good to me!  HE planned every detail perfectly in HIS perfect timing.  I ran about trying to bring everything together at my own pace,  yet He was *always* there, as He *always* is, patiently waiting for me to turn to Him. Even in my stubbornness He remained at my side, showing me trust, taking charge.  I give Him all the glory!!

Also, thanks to EVERYONE who helped make the Rendezvous the successful event that it was! I couldn't have done it without each of you. :) Go Rendezvous Team!

Last but *certainly* not least, a huge thank you to my friend Christopher L. for putting together this video. I'm STILL trying to catch my breath - it is just amazing! 

*note* 

I, my sisters, and mom are all in this video. (For some reason my dad didn't make it in, ah well.) But anyway - three of the younger ladies you'll see in the vid are Julia, Maria, and Lidia. Anna is in the beginning (one of the adorable laughing gals at the picnic table,) and also several times throughout the vid. 

...yours truly pops in every once in awhile. ;)

Hmm...lets see...I'm a little hard to spot in the "Do You Love Your Neighbor?" game (that wild running  about  in a circle, knocking people over while trying to find a chair? Um yeah. If you saw the vid you know what I mean, hehe ;) ) but I'm in there...then once on the sidelines during the talent show, and a few times in the dance clips (wearing the jean dress and boots.) :D

Great is thy Faithfulness!

~*~ A beautiful hymn to ponder as I start my day. ~*~

Thank you Lord for always being faithful, for never walking away, for your constant mercy and tender compassion poured out on a wretched sinner like me. Help me to always remember that "thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not, as thou hast been, thou forever will be!"

Great is thy faithfulness, O God my father

There is no shadow of turning with thee

Thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not,

As thou hast been, thou for ever will be.

CHORUS

Great is thy faithfulness

Great is thy faithfulness

Morning by morning new mercies I see

All I have needed thy hand hath provided

Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me

Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest

Sun, moon and stars in their courses above

Join with all nature in manifold witness

To thy great faithfulness, mercy and love

REPEAT CHORUS

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth

Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide

Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow

Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside

Great is thy faithfulness

Great is thy faithfulness

Morning by morning new mercies I see

All I have needed thy hand hath provided

Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me