Faithbooking Inspirations

Out of My Hands

Wow, what do I write in my first post since the sale of our home and heartbreaking move across the US?

I think, simply, although a little wordy :~)......

He is God, it is out of my hands, and: I want it that way.

In these 2 years I have come to an amazing place to be ~ one of complete trust in His Will and Way. 

Notice I didn't type agreement, or pleasure in, or even enjoyment in, it is pure TRUST IN. 

My family's testimony of how the Lord worked is beautiful - not perfect, not fun, not easy, and, most of all, not as we would have orchestrated it - but, it is BEAUTIFUL.

As I have been mulling over in my mind how I was going to create these pages, I keep coming back to the same summary:

He is God, it is out of my hands, and: I want it that way.

The details are too many to share in a short post ~ but, the Truth is the same for me, as well as for you....

His will is what you and I want for our family ~ and, we must pray that way. 

We may pray for something so deeply that we literally are drawn to tears at the mere mention of the desire.  We may think, in our finite minds, that there is only one way for our situation to work out and be pleasing to all.  We may cry in anguish as He answers our prayers in ways we didn't want.  We may be so weary that we don't think we can last another moment or take another step.  We may question Him, try to bargain with Him, beg Him, and, even be angry with Him. 

However, His will is what you and I want for our family ~ and, we must pray that way. 

What a beautiful place to be:  At His feet in complete submission to His Will and knowing that, while it just may not make sense today, it WILL in ETERNITY! 

We don't want what we want.  Ultimately, we must come to a place of wanting our lives to be out of our hands, and, into the nail-scarred hands of our Savior. 

He is God, it is out of my hands, and: I want it that way. 

As you guys have read over and over - I believe our pages should be just as much, maybe even more, about His work in our lives as they are about the birthdays and sport teams. 

As scrapbooking season is coming, I literally challenge you to make a few pages of times the Lord has worked in ways you would not have chosen.  Do you have to have all the answers in your pages?  No, He will use your work to speak to those who will hold those pages for years to come. 

You simply have to share your heart!

****

Matthew West ~ It's Out of My Hands

(Click on the link, and, wait forever, then, the song will play - Sorry about the format - My web host is working on updates...I'll be glad when they are done!  You may need to open a new window to this site to read the words while the song plays)

Matthew West - 07 - Out Of My Hands

There you go changing my plans again
There you go shifting my sands again
For reasons I don't understand again
Lately I don't have a clue

Just when I start liking what I see
There you go changing my scenery
I never know where you're taking me
But I'm trying just to follow you

It's out of my hands
It's out of my reach
It's over my head
And it's out of my league
There's too many things
That I don't understand
So it's into your will
And it's out of my hands

There you go healing these scars again
Showing me right where you are again
I'm helpless, and that's where I start again
I'm giving it all up to you

It's out of my hands
It's out of my reach
It's over my head
And it's out of my league
There's too many things
That I don't understand
So it's into your will
And it's out of my hands

Move me, make me
Choose me, change me
Send me, shake me
Find me, remind me
The past is behind me
Take it all away
Take it all from me, I pray

It's out of my hands
It's out of my reach
It's over my head
And it's out of my league
There's too many things
That I don't understand
So it's into your will
And it's out of my hands

Whew!

Whew - after a stint of nearly 2 years of dual citizenship between 2 states, I can finally say we are in officially in Houston!

The stories of struggles survived, lessons learned and blessings bestowed have been way too numerous to even begin to share in one post.

But, more than anything, the Lord has shown me that, when we have patient endurance resting and trusting in Him, He will show us beauty beyond belief.

I have learned to rest in Him with every ounce of my being.

And, if there ever was a time our loved ones need to find the peace in resting in Him, it is now. 

The reason I started this site was to present one way to get your legacy and His Word into your albums ~ I have seen and read such amazing stories from you.  However, I believe He is calling Scrapbookers Bubble Bath to be a brighter light and a bigger tool in a its little corner of the world.

First on my agenda, is to lower the price of the Unto All Generations Volumes I, II, and, III to  0.99....Nope, that wasn't a typo :~)

No fancy words guys ~ In short, I just want EVERYONE to experience His love and peace.  And, this is one way Scrapbookers Bubble Bath can touch hurting lives and make an eternal impact. 

So, enjoy, use these for growing His Kingdom, watch God show up in your life, and, hang around to watch what else is on my Texan mind :~)

Putting Scriptures to the Numbers

As we were standing in the kitchen talking about how long a marathon actually is (26.2 miles), my son said he wanted to find a verse with those numbers.  He ran upstairs and came down so excited.  "Since Psalms was the only one he knew that had at least 26 chapters", he turned to Psalm 26:2......And, would you believe what it says?

"Test me, O Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind;"

How cool is that?????!!!!!  If there is anyway to describe training/ running a marathon, it is a testing of the heart and mind.

I now have a Bible opened to Psalm 26:2 set on my treadmill.  It has become my prayer and my proclamation.

'Putting Scriptures to Numbers' can be such a blessing of inspiration, teaching, and downright fun.  I've done it with important dates, numbers on my race bib, receipt numbers and appointment times.  Look up different versions as well.  In fact, one version of Psalm 26:2 actually says "test my body".   

It is amazing how often you can easily find just the right scripture to fit the occasion.

Use this to help children learn verses, assign a scripture to jersey numbers, to inspire or encourage as important dates approach, or as scriptures / titles on your album pages.  It is just a great little way to direct our loved ones back to His Word and learn to apply it to our lives.

Have fun, and, if you find any, pass them on in the comments below!

98 and Still Running......

Rosario Iglesias just passed away, at the age of 98.....

Why share?  She held RUNNING world records in five categories: the 85- and 90-and-over class at 400 and 800 meters and the 90-and-over record at 200 meters.  And, as shared in the story here, she didn't start competitive running until age 80! 

I love what the article says ~ Iglesias proved that "barriers don't exist when one sets out to reach a goal in life".

Do you have a goal that seems so out of reach you can't even begin to take the first step?  If an 90+ year old woman can set world records, YOU can at least get on the starting line towards your goal and dreams.

No matter how old or burdened you feel, Rosario must be an inspiration that you can "forget what is behind and strain toward what is ahead.  (I) Press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called (me) heavenward in Christ Jesus" Phillipians 3:12.

What dream do you have that has you scared and hesitating to take that first step?  With commitment and His strength, you can cross the finish line.

Today, "throw off everything that hinders and...run with perserverance the race marked out for us...Fix your eyes on Jesus..." Hebrews 12:1-2

And, if she can run at 90+, that means we can still be scrapping at 90+!

A Revelation ~ Soundtrack Saturday 8

Wow, 17 months after my husband pulled out of the drive to head to Texas, I continue to have an unsold home, a spouse who is struggling with the Lord's plan for him, 4 children who miss their daddy, and, a list of "huhs?" as long as the 2400 mile round trip drive I've made 5 times.  :~)

Have you ever been in a point in your life that you just didn't know where you should turn? 

As you looked out over the ocean of the future all you saw was a unchanging field of, well, uncertainty? 

Or, have you, with His grace and power, been able to look at that ocean of uncertain future and see the beauty of His plan, even if you didn't have a clue what it was?

Do you have a time in your life when you prayed for a revelation, and, He gave one to you (in His time of course) in a way only He could work?

Don't forget to create pages to tell of the times in your life when He worked, even if it was slow or, not in the way you'd written the story.  I promise, your loved ones will treasure the fact that you struggled with His will.  Whether it all unfolded in a beautiful way, or the questions remain.  Include your prayers, scriptures or thoughts you claimed during your times of wandering.

As you face the new year, may you find yourself resting in Him, even as we each seek more about His will and pray for revelations for His plan.  

Revelation lyrics by Third Day

My life has led me down the road that's so uncertain
Now I am left alone and I am broken
Trying to find my way
Trying to find the faith that's gone

This time I know that you are holding all the answers
I'm tired of losing hope and taking chances
On roads that never seem
To be the ones that bring me home

Give me a revelation
Show me what to do
'Cause I've been trying to find my way
I haven't got a clue

Tell me should I stay here
Or do I need to move
Give me a revelation
I've got nothing without you
I've got nothing without you

My life has led me down this path that's ever winding
Through every twist and turn, I'm always finding
That I am lost again
Tell me when this road will ever end

Give me a revelation
Show me what to do
'Cause I've been trying to find my way
I haven't got a clue

Tell me should I stay here
Or do I need to move
Give me a revelation
I've got nothing without you
I've got nothing without you

I don't know where I can turn
Tell me, when will I learn
Won't you show me where I need to go
Let me follow your lead
I know that it's the only way that I can get back home

Give me a revelation
Show me what to do
'Cause I've been trying to find my way
I haven't got a clue

Tell me should I stay here
Or do I need to move
Give me a revelation
I've got nothing without you
I've got nothing without you

A 2009 Challenge

So, I didn't do the best at passing on Christmas ideas ~ sometimes I have the best of intentions....

As 2009 greets my family, we are still living in two states in opposite parts of the United States. 

Questions asked over the last year and a half ~ 100s...

Blessings received over the last year and a half ~ 100s x 2...

Prayers prayed over the last year and a half ~ 100s x 100s...

Revelations revealed over the last year and a half ~ one...He is God!

As we create our albums for future generations to treasure, we have such a beautiful opportunity to point to the one true fact that never changes.  He is God.  Each page presents the perfect medium for us to draw our loved ones to Him and show that He is God. 

His plan...His love...His grace...His goodness...His judgement...His sacrifice...His way...His strength...His protection...His silence...His power...His creation...His design...His faithfulness...

I challenge you to be intentional in 2009 about creating pages that turn your loved ones' eyes and hearts to Him.  As each picture is pasted, each sticker stuck, and, each word journaled, you can change lives, and, eternity.

Treasured Jewelry

I have a cross pendant, a little like the one on the left, that I received over 30 Christmases ago from my parents.  It has seen me through high school, college, parenting 4 children and every moment in between.  Each time a chain has broken, I have been devastated and have even paid extra to get the ring repaired quickly so I can put it back on.  It is not a point of idolatry for me, it is just a piece of jewelry I treasure beyond what a few words can say. 

As I ran yesterday, the necklace became so entangled in my earphones that I can not believe it didn't break ~ I felt a panic to think that it could have broken and been lost on the trail miles before I would have noticed.  How would I find it?  Could I even begin to consider replacing it?  I would never be able to give it to my daughter, or my grand-daughter.  This precious piece of jewelry would have been gone, and pictures along with the story would be gone with it. 

After untangling it, I finished my run thinking about this treasure, as well as the other pieces I have that have a story.  I have a pair of earrings my mom got me on our very first shopping trip.  My mother's ring has a history with a complete miracle.  

So, I encourage you to make a few pages with the pictures and stories of your favorite / most treasured jewelry. 

• Pieces from family members
• Pieces with a special history / story / or meaning
• Pieces that bring special memories of moments or loved ones
• Who gave you the jewelry?  How did you / they pay for it?  Who would you like to receive the pieces once you are gone?
• Include pictures of the jewelry, people or places, as well as receipts and dates
• "The LORD their God will save them on that day as the flock of is people.  They will sparkle in His land like jewels in a crown."  Zechariah 9:16   
• Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.  Proverbs 8:10-11
• Add these verses in your Christmas, Birthday, Blessings, and Weddings sections of your Unto All Generations

Worship in the Waiting ~ Soundtrack Saturday 6

Over 14 months since our decision to move to Texas leaves us with a house still not sold and in a state of waiting that gives me a deeper understanding for the Israelites!

 

In the past year I have learned much about who He is, who I am, and, who He created me to be.  I believe I will be eternally grateful for this time ~ my life will be, beautifully, never the same. 

 

I can not begin to express in words all I have learned and have become.  I can only praise Him for His ways, His wonders, and, MY WAITING.  While I am listening and watching for Him to place the next stone for me to step on, I am raising my life in praise and worship in the waiting.

 

For Soundtrack Saturday 6 I encourage you to create a page(s) titled 'Waiting', or 'Worship in the Waiting'.  Our loved ones will have periods of wandering and wondering.  If they can read your words that He never fails, He does work, and that the waiting can be beautiful, you will encourage them to hold on to His hand through the desert and into the Promised Land.  

• Include the specifics events in your story
• Share any scriptures, songs or prayers you clung to and claimed 
• Journal how He worked before, during, and, after the period
• How can you look back now and see that He was working all along?
• How were His ways different, and, perhaps more beautiful, than your plan?
• How is your / your family's life different because of the waiting?
• Include the chorus or all of the words from the songs below
• In His heart a man plans His course, but the Lord determines His steps.  Proverbs 16:9  
• The Lord works out everything for His own ends... Proverbs 16:4
• Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.  Proverbs 3:5,6

One of my favorite songs to start my morning runs with is Worship in the Waiting by FFH. Click to see a video here (As soon as I figure out this new program, I will post the song directly here as well)  :~)

Another morning 'Waiting Song' is While I am Waiting by John Waller as seen in the must see movie Fireproof and here in the While I am Waiting Video

While the waiting can be painful, it can also be a time of worship for His wisdom and ways ~ don't miss His Work in the Waiting ~ Just pray for manna for today, and, watch Him move in ways you would have never imagined!!

~ Worship in the Waiting by FFH ~

I’ve seen the red sea part, I’ve seen the mountains move
But now it seems so dark, I can’t even feel you
If you choose to be silent I’ll be silent too
I will worship in the waiting, quiet before you
Until your voice like manna from the sky falls

I will worship in the waiting  
I will walk this sand beneath my feet
Though the winter wind is blowing
The ground is not frozen underneath
I will worship and not grow bitter
Cause I know you see the end of it all
And with the spring will come the rain
And I'll see what was gained
In the waiting

I’ve seen the blooms of spring, new life in everything
But now it seems so grey, bright colors fade away
This winter seems much longer and colder than before
But I will worship in the waiting, expecting something more
Until the sun shines warm upon my face again
He Leadeth me He leadeth me
By his own hand He leadeth me
His faithful follower I would be
For by his hand He leadeth me

I will worship in the waiting  
I will walk this sand beneath my feet
Though the winter wind is blowing
The ground is not frozen underneath
I will worship and not grow bitter
Cause I know you see the end of it all
And with the spring will come the rain
And I'll see what was gained
In the waiting 

~ While I am Waiting by John Waller ~

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Taking every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting 

** The beautiful picture found at

The Art of Lillian Michiko Blakely

Coversations Full of Grace

Let your conversation be always full of grace....Colossians 4:6

What a perfect scripture for pictures of anyone with any kind of phone near their ear, or for that first cell phone purchase for your teen.

Even if you have already scrapped such a page, go back and stick this little scripture in a tiny empty spot. 

We never know who will be looking at our albums one day and need just The Word they read.

** This is also a great verse for our families to memorize ~ I know my kids needed to tuck that one away for use towards their siblings :~)  It was a great opportunity to point out His grace towards us as well.

Oh No, She's Awake...

"Live your life in such a way that when you open your eyes in the morning satan says, 'Oh no, she's awake'."

I received this in an email a couple days ago, and, it has continued to challenge me in a deep gut-checking way.

Does satan say this about you?  I'm not sure he does about me.

Along with being a personal prayer, this statement can make an eternal impact in our albums.

• This would be a great title page in a graduation album or 'new path' album
• Use it along with a picture of a loved one you want to challenge to live such a life
• Use it in a double page spread with pictures of a loved one whom you believed lived such a life, and, journal what she / he did to bring others to Christ
• Include pictures of a teenager sleeping / waking
• Frame the phrase and place in a bedroom or bathroom to challenge you or your family

Lord, may we be intense enough in our walk with and for You, that we are dangerously scary to the enemy.

A Beautiful Story ~ Soundtrack Saturday 3

For Soundtrack Saturday 3, I had to share this soundtrack / video that I just found....I don't think any music I share can begin to say more.  (Read the full story below)

Now, you can grab a kleenex, I did, and, be inspired that love, a strong spirit, and His Power can defy all odds.

******After she was nearly killed in a car crash in 1987, doctors doubted Lynn Mcgovern would walk again. But Mcgovern, whose brain stem had been damaged, endured seven years of rehabilitation to learn how to walk a short distance--namely, down the aisle to marry Jamie Parks in 1994.

Since then, she has continued to defy expectations by completing more than 170 road races, thanks to her devoted husband, who would rather push Lynn in her wheelchair than run alone.

"I am so lucky Jamie has given me this gift," Lynn says. The 45-year-olds have covered more than 13,000 miles together. Their personal bests, including a 17:35 5-k and a 2:57 marathon, are remarkable, given Jamie's workload (Lynn and the chair weigh 170 pounds).

Jamie, who met Lynn in 1985, started pushing her in races in 1991. "She faces so many challenges, but never complains," says Jamie, a mail carrier in Tinley Park, Illinois. "It makes it hard for me to complain about anything."

At a half-marathon in August, one of the chair's wheels fell off at mile 12. Jamie pushed Lynn on a single wheel for the final mile, finishing in 1:32:11. "We were mad, but then you move on," Jamie says. "We don't take things so seriously as other folks might. Our big picture is much bigger."

All the POWER You Need ~ Soundtrack Saturday 2

As I ran a couple days ago, praying about the next Soundtrack Saturday post, as well as where SBB is going, I strongly believe the Lord placed this song and scripture on my heart for someone(s).  And, no matter how many times I tried to add something or change it, He brought me back to this one statement ~ "Remind them, and, you, that I have all the POWER they need".

So, quite simply, I now present Soundtrack Saturday Track #2:  along with a scripture that I have hanging on the wall in front of my treadmill.  Also, here is a copy of the scripture I stare at and pray through as I run my grueling  torturous  fun miles :~)  (Download all_the_power_you_need.doc)

...There was given me a thorn in my flesh... Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.  But He said to me "My grace is sufficient for you.  My POWER is made perfect in weakness."...Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's POWER may rest in me." 2 Cor. 12:7-9.

"All the Power You Need" ~ by Darlene Zschech 

• Use these words to create a sports page: include the sacrifice, journey and milestones
• Create a page to tell the story of a special goal or trial in your life.  Journal how you experienced Christ's power
• Share one of your weaknesses and how Christ can / has given you power to overcome (weight, bad habits, sin, fear, doubt, etc.)
• Create a "Power Page" with this scripture on top and share mini stories / clips of times in your life you've seen or experienced His power as you encourage your loved ones to trust in and tap into His power. 

Introducing....Soundtrack Saturday

This past Mother's Day my husband got me one of the best gifts ever ~ a 30 GB Zune.  Until about a year ago I'd have no clue what that was ~ it basically is an MP3 Player that holds over 5000 songs and pictures.  You don't have to spend too much time on this site to see that music is such an inspiration and joy to me, so, I was giddy when I opened it!!

The best movies usually have great soundtracks:  And, I believe we each have a soundtrack for our lives.  The soundtrack has songs that stir up memories, give us 'light bulb moments', speak our deepest feelings in much more eloquent words, and, cause us to dance along this beautiful movie the Lord has placed us in.

I thought I'd start a new weekly post:  Soundtrack Saturday.  These will be filled with a random number, style, and meaning of songs that belong in my soundtrack or may fit perfectly in some of yours.  And, I thought it'd be a great opportunity for you to add some comments to share some songs that may inspire each other.  There are lots of you that read this, so, I know there are lots of perfect songs.  Don't be shy, you never know when something you share may be just what another is looking for.

Song phrases, entire lyrics and even CDs are great to place in our albums.  It adds a new dynamic to our pages and albums and will inspire future generations in new ways.  So, check back each Saturday to read the latest Soundtrack Saturday post, and check out the Songs and Poems category for other song ideas.

I now present to you:  Soundtrack Saturday!

Be Thou My Vision ~ If I could have just one song to represent the prayer of my life it'd be this hymn.  The words are just beautiful and speak my heart more accurately than I could ever begin to try.  The most touching version was by Ginny Owens who is a wonderful singer, and, blind since childhood.   Her version made me fall in love with the words.  I want to make a page with a CD of my favorite versions along with the words and share how they speak my heart, my unworthiness, and my prayer for my loved ones to keep their eyes on Jesus.

Held ~ I found this song by Natalie Grant at the most difficult time in my life.  It was the time when I discovered that everything we believe to be foundational on this earth, is not.  I realized I could lean on the Lord and Him alone.  And, I found the beauty and peace in learning to just sit at His feet and be Held By Him through IT ALL, whatever IT may be. I want to make a page with the words and this picture as I journal the peace in learning to be Held By Him.  I so desire to speak to my future generations through this song, and encourage them to rest and trust. I'd also include how I used the song as the name for my blog and the picture for the Faithbooking Devotionals. I'd also like to make a page to tell a brief version of the story behind my love for the song as well as how the picture touches me.

Hope this gets you thinking about some pages you can make with some special songs in your life.  Stop back next Saturday :~)

***************************

Be Thou My Vision ~ Ginny Owens' version is on the Without Condition CD

Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.
Thou my best Thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I Thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.

Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight;
Be Thou my Dignity, Thou my Delight;
Thou my soul’s Shelter, Thou my high Tower:
Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power.

Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine Inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art.

High King of Heaven, my victory won,
May I reach Heaven’s joys, O bright Heaven’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.

Held ~ Natalie Grant from the Awaken CD

Two months is too little.
They let him go.
They had no sudden healing.
To think that providence would
Take a child from his mother while she prays
Is appalling.

Who told us we'd be rescued?
What has changed and why should we be saved from nightmares?
We're asking why this happens
To us who have died to live?
It's unfair.

This is what it means to be held.
How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive.
This is what it is to be loved.
And to know that the promise was
When everything fell we'd be held.

This hand is bitterness.
We want to taste it, let the hatred know our sorrow.
The wise hands opens slowly to lilies of the valley and tomorrow.

This is what it means to be held.
How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive.
This is what it is to be loved.
And to know that the promise was
When everything fell we'd be held.

If hope is born of suffering.
If this is only the beginning.
Can we not wait for one hour watching for our Savior?


This is what it means to be held.
How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive.
This is what it is to be loved.
And to know that the promise was
When everything fell we'd be held.

Heal the Wound ~ Leave the Scar

A couple of months ago my daughter left this 4 1/2 inch skid-mark on our street with her teeth...yes, I did say with her teeth!

As I held my poor daughter with her busted teeth, I refused to believe my sons when they said there was a "huge skid mark" ~ I told them to grab a ruler and camera.....So, now my daughter tells people this picture is her "trophy", and, "the pictures are gonna make a great scrapbook page" ~ now that is a true scrapbooker's kid!

We've had many trips to the dentist, and there are still some prayers going up about the long term prognosis of her front teeth, but, the wound on her lip has healed to leave a pink scar.  When I look at that little mark, I praise God for so many blessings that came from this incident.  And, even my 8 year old can tell you how God blessed her and protected her that day.

How many scars do you have that really can become reminders of how beautiful God is? 

What about those stretch marks from your pregnancies ~ the cut above your eye from that car accident that so many said they weren't sure how you walked away ~ the little burn from your first homemade cake you made for your daddy's birthday ~ the pain yet peace you still feel when you hear that certain song ~ the memories of that one night when your life was changed forever ~ the smile lines which even the expensive creams can't seem to erase, that really show how often you've had the gift of smiles and laughter during your life....

I have 2 'scars' that I have been praying the Lord would remove, one physical, and, one situational ~ however, realistically, I don't see that prayer being answered in the way I'd choose.  Instead, I have begun thanking Him for his grace, power, and love that is proven in the scar that remains. And, I  pray/sing the chorus to Heal the Wound by Point of Grace. (I've included the song and lyrics at the end of this post)

Heal the wound but leave the scar
A reminder of how merciful You are
I am broken, torn apart
Take the pieces of this heart
And heal the wound but leave the scar

We each have so many wounds He has healed, but, the scars remain. 

Sharing these scars, whether physical, situational, or emotional have the chance of blessing future generations.  We can teach them to see their scars through His eyes and rejoice in His ways.  We can share His works, power, love, and beauty through pages with the story of our scars.

• Share a the story, with or without a picture, of a physical wound you have:  Share the story how it came to be, how you saw His work in the situation, and, how that wound / scar has blessing in it
• Share a time in your life when you were hurt deeply but you can look back through the emotional scar and see His work and way
• Share the story of scars your loved ones have and how those wounds to scars were blessings.  This is especially important and touching for our children as they grow and see a scar but can remember the love of God
• Create a page with a picture of Christ's nail-scarred hands (you can find them on the internet if you search in images).  Journal what those wounds mean to you, how you feel when you see the picture / think of His sacrifice, and the power those wounds represent.  This is a great opportunity to share His sacrifice for EACH of us and the gift of eternal life ~ you never know the heart that your page may change!!!

Enjoy the song below (warning: a tissue may be needed), and, as you read the words, thank Him for a wound He has healed but allowed a scar to remain to remind you of His love and mercy.

~ Praise Him for your scars! ~

Heal the Wound by Point of Grace

I used to wish that I could rewrite history
I used to dream that each mistake could be erased
Then I could just pretend
I never knew me back then

I used to pray that You would take this shame away
Hide all the evidence of who I've been
But it's the memory of
The place You brought me from
That keeps me on my knees
And even though I'm free

Heal the wound but leave the scar
A reminder of how merciful You are
I am broken, torn apart
Take the pieces of this heart
And heal the wound but leave the scar

I have not lived a life that boasts of anything
I don't take pride in what I bring
But I'll build an altar with
The rubble that You've found me in
And every stone will sing
Of what You can redeem

Heal the wound but leave the scar
A reminder of how merciful You are
I am broken, torn apart
Take the pieces of this heart
And heal the wound but leave the scar

Don't let me forget
Everything You've done for me
Don't let me forget
The beauty in the suffering

Heal the wound but leave the scar
A reminder of how merciful You are
I am broken, torn apart
Take the pieces of this heart
And heal the wound but leave the scar

One Heartbeat at a Time

So often as mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and mentors we feel as if we are just not doing enough.

Shaping these precious souls entrusted to us is a daunting task that often takes years to see its fruits.

It's easy to get lost in the day to day busyness and wonder if we are truly making a difference.

This morning, I was blessed by a song that brought a tear to my eye along with "rewind" pushes at least 6 times.

We must remember we ARE changing the world as we mold His children.  Each moment, word, and smile will, one day, create someone who WILL "rock this world for Him". 

As many of the Mother's Day pictures are getting developed and placed in albums, I thought I'd share the beautiful song and lyrics to Steven Curtis Chapman's "One Heartbeat at a Time".

• Use some of the words as your place Mother's Day pictures in your albums
• Journal how your own mother / grandmother / mentor changed the world through her children
• Journal your prayers and dreams of your own children / loved ones changing the world
• Use the chorus in a baby album as a gift to a new mother
• Include Isaiah 40:11 ~ He tends His flock like a Shepherd and carries His lambs close to His heart.  He gently leads those that have young

Lord, give us the perseverance to press on and make the most of each moment as we "make history with every touch and smile"

*** Just a little technical note:  I am super excited...I just figured out how to insert the songs into these posts ~ so, cruise through the Songs and Poems Category and now actually hear the songs I have shared.

One Heartbeat at a Time ~ Steven Curtis Chapman

You're up all night with a screaming baby
You run all day at the speed of life
And every day you feel a little bit less
Like the beautiful woman you are

So you fall into bed when you run out of hours
And you wonder if anything worth doing got done
Oh, maybe you just don't know
Or maybe you've forgotten

You, you are changing the world
One little heartbeat at a time
Making history with every touch and every smile
Oh, you, you may not see it now
But I believe that time will tell
How you, you are changing the world
One little heartbeat at a time

With every "I know you can do it"
Every tear that you kiss away
So many little things that seem to go unnoticed
They're just like the drops of rain over time
They become a river

And you, you are changing the world
One little heartbeat at a time
Making history with every touch and every smile
Oh, you, you may not see it now
But I believe that time will tell
How you, you are changing the world
One little heartbeat at a time

You're beautiful
You're beautiful
How you're changing the world
You're changing the world

You, you are changing the world
One little heartbeat at a time
Making history with every touch and every smile
Oh, you, you may not see it now
But I believe that time will tell
How you, you are changing the world
Oh, I believe that you
You are changing the world
One little heartbeat
At a time

And you're changing the world

Beautiful Feet

"How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news" ~ Rom 10:15

"Direct my footsteps according to your word..." ~ Psalm 119:133

"He will not let you foot slip..." ~ Psalm 121:3

There are not many things more beautiful in this world than children's feet.  And, at the risk of sounding kinda odd, when I look at the feet of my parents, I am touched by where those feet have been and how those feet have impacted my life. 

Pictures or imprints of feet have a perfect place in our albums. They represent a future and a promise.  They prove God's amazing creative works.  They are what take us down the path He has for us.

I challenge you to make a "Beautiful Feet Page" in your album.  Although it may not be a 'typical' page, think of the words, stories and prayers of legacy you could leave.  Then, e-mail me your "Beautiful Feet Page" so I can share them in an upcoming album on this site.

• Use one of the scriptures listed above as a border around a picture or collage
• Include a prayer for where you pray your loved one's feet will take them in the future
• Journal your praises for where the feet have been:  include the actions as well as the places (mission trips, college, supporting and raising a family, sports achievements, ministries, etc)
• Do you have special memories / feelings about your loved one's feet? (Story time, kicking a football in the back yard, reminding you of the miracle of life, etc)
• If your loved one is insecure about their feet / toes you can place a wide ribbon or make a card to place over their toes (write a scripture on it, their name, or a special saying)
• If you don't have / are unable to get a picture of the feet, make them through stickers, tracing, die-cuts or clip art, then use the suggestions above to complete the page
• Instead of a picture, make an imprint on a piece of paper with an ink pad
• Create a page using these prompts for any special shoes (first pair, athletic goals, special days or meetings).  Go to the shoe rack and take pictures of the shoes owned by your family and journal special moments or thoughts about each pair.
• Create a mini-album for a child about the parts of our body and how each of those parts was created for a special purpose and how they can serve God
• Create a page about sitting at Christ's Feet ~ journal when you feel closest to Him, do you sit at His feet for wisdom, guidance, strength or peace?
• Challenge your scrapping group, family members or friends to make a "Beautiful Feet Page" and then share them the next time you get together.
• And, next time you look at your feet, give them a little pat for all they have been in your life ~ even if you do need a pedicure :~)
• If you can't make the page today, just file the thoughts, imprint, or picture away with all those Precious Papers, and make some Journey Jots to be used later.   And, remember, It is OK to be out of order!

**I found this precious image at AllPosters.com

A Gift ~ Through Eternal Glasses

For months my son had bugged reminded me what he wanted for his birthday....Guitar Hero III~ It was a daily, and sometimes hourly, discussion.

He even talked me into this shirt that said "My Mom Rocks" ~ I think that was a little sweet talking going on, even through a shirt :~)

How could I begin to dream of giving him anything else. 

So, of course, there was a Wii Guitar Hero III for a certain 12 year old's birthday.

Then, we saw what was on the screen......

In short ~ one of the levels in Guitar Hero III is called "Battle for Your Soul" and, it has songs such as "The Number of the Beast" and "Raining Blood".  Images of Satan were sprinkled all over the game ~ at one point the player even battles Satan in order to advance to the next level.

As I watched this play out in my living room, all I could think was "Christ died a horrible death so we would never have to see Satan, and now, we are playing with him."

My heart was torn ~ how could I think of returning this game.....Yet how could I not?

I thank the Lord for a child who had a heart tender enough to hear his parents' concerns and be willing to return his game ~ Praise God for our children and how the He can speak to their hearts. 

Now a PS2 Guitar Hero 'Rock the Eighties' sits by our TV ~ it may not be the newest and greatest out there, but, Satan has been put back in his place ~ out of my home.

That gift incident has made me think a lot about the gifts we give and the love / thought / impact / stories behind them.  There is so much more that can be added to our pages with pictures of gift exchanges:

• Why was the gift requested / given / chosen / perfect for the receiver or from the giver?
• Is there any eternal significance / statement / story that can give you the opportunity to point towards Christ on that page?
• Was there a sacrifice made to make the gift possible?  Include the appreciation of God's work to allow the gift
• As you or your loved one use and enjoy the gift, is there something that can be included about Christ or your prayers for your future generations
• How can the gift be used for good / potential eternal purpose?  Include a prayer revolving around the gift and its potential

Wow, think about the difference we can make with a few added words.  The next time you make a gift giving / receiving page ~ look at the pictures through "Eternal Impact Glasses".

**And, if you are a parent whose child plays Guitar Hero III, any video game for that matter, just take an hour or so to look at it ~ make sure you are comfortable with the images and the message that your child is seeing.  And, please know, that I hope not to offend anyone in any way.  I realize there will be some 'world' in these video games, as parents we just have to decide how much 'world' the Lord would want us to allow in our home.

Music to Impact Eternity!

I came to Houston to visit my husband during this crazy transition ~ but, man, did the Lord have a bonus planned!  I got to see Natalie Grant in person today!!!

For anyone who knows me, they know there are few people here on earth I'd rather meet than this amazing woman.  Her songs have touched and literally changed my life and who I believe God wants me to be.  I've even named my blog from one of her songs!  So, while I may not have been one of those screaming Elvis fans, I sure was, to be honest, giddy when I found out she would be here in town!

What does this have to do with scrapping you ask ~ well, where do I start?...

• So much of who I am, who I struggle to not be, and, how I try to see myself as He sees me has been formed through her music ~ As I sat at the concert, I had the thought that those songs, struggles, and victories would make some great pages.  And, I am sure you have life changing / forming songs too ~ share those:  Use the words along with the words, stories and prayers.  You can even include a CD with the song in the pocket (See an example).  The song words, along with your journaled words can impact eternity for your loved ones!
• As I have shared in many previous posts, in the Songs and Poems category, create an album designated just for music / songs that have impacted you and help tell the story of who you are and your journey to a legacy
• As I saw my daughter be so excited with meeting Natalie, I was deeply touched to see a woman impacting a little girl in such a huge, potentially eternal way.  What started as a 'trip to see Mommy's favorite singer' turned out to be an event my daughter will remember for a long time.  When I create the page with the pictures from today, that desire for my daughter to follow in His path and be a woman who serves Him will be as much as a part of the page as the who / what / and when of the day
• If you have a teen daughter, I strongly urge you to find when the Revolve Tour is coming to town, and, take your daughter.  I kept threatening to put a wig on my son and take him this weekend to the Houston Revolve!  :~)

To learn and hear more about Natalie Grant, check out her My Space ~ she seemed to be real and passionate about His love and grace.

So, thanks so much to Natalie for being the highlight of my trip to Houston ( we won't tell my husband that)  :~)

Also, a BIG THANK YOU to Chad Prince of Artistic Christian Photography for the awesome pictures.  If you live in the Houston area and are in need of a photographer, contact him at talkwithchadtoday@yahoo.com   

His Word ~ So Many Translations: So Much Power

A couple days ago my 12 year old son was looking through a King James Version of the Bible, and, showed me a verse he'd found that really spoke to him.

Then, he asked me a great question:  "What is your favorite verse in this version?"

I answered his question, and thanked him for a great post idea!!  :~)

That is a wonderful bit of us that is so important to share ~ we are careful to put His Word in our albums, but, what about including a peak into our heart concerning the different versions and translations?  I have quite a few verses that I have tucked away in my heart in different translations for specific reasons ~ and, I'm sure you do too?

• Do you have a favorite version / translation?
• Do you read a specific version for a specific reason?
• Do you cross-reference different versions during your study?  Why?  How?
• Create a page of your favorite scripture(s) in different translations
• Share any verses that speak to you in specific versions and why you favor that particular wording
• Create a page with the verse in stickers, die-cuts or fancy fonts and journal the reason that verse and version is special to you
• Devote an entire album to sharing your favorite verses:  Include the verse, version, story, peace, power, intervention, inspiration, time in your life, change in your life, or faith you find in the verse
• Use the Unto All Generations Books to find a scripture that is appropriate for your page, then, cross-reference that verse with different versions to find one that best fits the pictures and page 
• Since that day my son asked me the question, I have asked many people if they have favorite verses in specific versions ~ and, it has been interesting and touching to hear their responses.  Next time you are sitting around the dinner table or at a family gathering ask the question and jot down the answers to put beside the pictures of those individuals or from that events

His Word has so much power ~ be sure to include it in your albums, no matter what version!

He's Every Season

With the move to Houston, I think I am some mild mourning for my Ohioan change of seasons.  :~)   Fall is the absolute most beautiful time of year.  It reminds me we serve a God of enormous creativity and love.

I heard this song today, and, thought it'd be a great one on a page with pictures of my home in the changing seasons. 

To deepen the faith in the page, include journaling:

• How the Lord has guided you through your seasons of life.
• How has the Lord made you a new creation
• Pick a stanza or verse that touches you and journal additional details
• Include details about your favorite season and why

Every Season by Nicole Nordeman (from This Mystery Album)

Every evening sky, an invitation
To trace the patterned stars
And early in July, a celebration
For freedom that is ours
And I notice You
In children's games
In those who watch them from the shade
Every drop of sun is full of fun and wonder
You are summer

And even when the trees have just surrendered
To the harvest time
Forfeiting their leaves in late September
And sending us inside
Still I notice You when change begins
And I am braced for colder winds
I will offer thanks for what has been and was to come
You are autumn

And everything in time and under heaven
Finally falls asleep
Wrapped in blankets white, all creation
Shivers underneath
And still I notice you
When branches crack
And in my breath on frosted glass
Even now in death, You open doors for life to enter
You are winter

And everything that's new has bravely surfaced
Teaching us to breathe
What was frozen through is newly purposed
Turning all things green
So it is with You
And how You make me new
With every season's change
And so it will be
As You are re-creating me
Summer, autumn, winter, spring

SBB Welcomes 2008

Yes, Scrapbookers Bubble Bath is still active, and, will continue to bring you faithbooking inspiration.  The end of 2007 and beginning of 2008 brought many changes and I had to put my passion on the back burner for a just little while.  But, as you can see, my beauty remains as breathtaking as ever!!  :~)

2007 was a year of amazing changes and challenges!  And I am sure 2008 will be just as exciting!

The name and domain "Scrapbookers Bubble Bath" just celebrated its 4th birthday on January 29th ~ Wow, that is so hard for me to believe!  What a blessing that silly name has been to me and what an impact it has made on my life.  I pray our vision has blessed you and helped you leave little splashes of eternity in your albums!

During the time that I was visiting Houston, the next place we will be settling ~ I spent much time in prayer about where the Lord wants Scrapbookers Bubble Bath to go and what my focus should be.  Not only is my family in transition, but, I believe SBB needs a new face and focus.  To be honest, no matter what I do or where my eyes wander, I keep coming back home to my passion of helping others get His Word in our albums.

I believe whether we scrap as a fancy Fay, a plain Jane, or a wordy Wilma, our albums are the best place for us to make an eternal impact for our family.

So, there'll be some changes ~ but, you will see the focus remain of leaving a legacy for eternity.  The changes will be simplified sites, more sharing among yourselves, and, hopefully, easier searching for ideas and inspiration.  These alterations may be slow, but, they will be all towards one goal ~ helping you make an ETERNAL IMPACT through your albums.

Now to the first order of business for 2008:  With excitement, I have decided to lower the prices of the Unto All Generation Series to make them more available to more scrappers.  They are currently available as downloads and CDs.  You can purchase them here. 

• Volume III ~ $6.99 download, $8.99 CD
• Volume I & II ~ $10.99 download, $12.99 CD
• Volume I, II, & III ~ $15.99 download, $17.99 CD

The next change you will see within the next week is some changes to the actual Scrapbookers Bubble Bath website.  Some of those pages have been unchanged since SBB was first born 3 years ago ~ I'm thinkin' the old girl needs some updates :~)

This site (Faithbooking Inspirations) will continue to provide ideas, links, and inspiration with the intent to give you a wonderful resource for quick searches and page ideas during those moments of cropper's block. If you are not subscribed to receive posts directly in your email box, be sure to sign up to the right. 

Again ~ as I have said so many times ~ thanks for being a part of SBB and for blessing my life.  I pray this next year finds us creating pages of legacy and eternity that will just rock this world for Him!!

You're a Mom!

I found a great Christmas present for your kids ~ as well as some great words for our scrapbooks.

The Go Fish Guys is an amazing group with a mission to create "Great music for kids that won't drive parents bonkers".  You can hear some clips from their CDs here.  We found these guys earlier this week, and, my kids are hooked.  Their newest CD ~ Snazzy can be heard in the next town over as my kids jam down the road.  The cool thing, is, I find myself singing right along with them ~ and, it is music and words that is perfect for ears of all ages!

Below, I have included the song and words to "You're a Mom" ~ You can imagine how my heart was touched to hear all 4 'jamming' and singing the words at the top of their lungs. 

These words would be great along side a picture of a mom with here kids, perhaps surrounded by toys or kids.  Journal how the words make you feel as a mom, or about your own mother.  What special things make you know you are a mom?  In what ways did your mom let you know she loved you?  How has being a mother changed your life?  How does the Bible help you / show you how to shape these little souls?  Journal your passion for your children to take up the Bible and your desire to show its teachings in your own life.

I have the words typed out in Word and will use them on the next page with pix of me and my kids ~ with these lines highlighted! The Bible that you hold Can shape these little souls.

You also can check out 2 great videos from the Go Fish Guys: Christmas with a Capital C is cute, and It's About the Cross is powerful!

May you Moms Enjoy!!  :~)

You're a Mom ~ by The Go Fish Guys

If you have a stroller

But you’re still a rock and roller

You’re a mom

If you’re tired of doing dishes

And you know who Elmo’s fish is

You’re a mom

(Chorus)

You’re the boss, the driver

The ultimate survivor

A doctor, a cooker

You’re man thinks you’re a looker

If you work all day

But you never get paid

You’re a mom

If you need a sick day

But instead you’re gonna play

You’re a mom

If your first occupation

Sounds like a sweet vacation

You’re a mom

If your living room floor

Looks like a toy store

You’re a mom

(Chorus)

You’re the boss, the driver

The ultimate survivor

A doctor, a cooker

You’re man thinks you’re a looker

If you work all day

But you never get paid

You’re a mom

If you mean the whole world

To a little boy or girl

You’re a mom

The Bible that you hold

Can shape these little souls

You’re a mom

If you have the most important job in the world

You’re a mom

Our Scrapbooks ~ Our Love Letters

Last week I was going through a little book my mom had kept of my school days.  Although the last entry was from 30 years ago, oddly enough, stuck away in a page, I found a quick note she'd written in 2004 before her life changed drastically and she'd become ill. 

It was quickly written, in pencil, on a plain note card ~ but, what a treasure it is!  She'd just taken 5 minutes to write down her love for me, her pride in the woman I'd become and, most importantly, her security in Heaven.  I read those words with tears of love for this woman who had been such a beautiful model for my life, and appreciation that she took the time to write her thoughts.

Since that moment I read that precious note, I don't think a waking hour has gone by that I have not thought about that little piece of paper ~ And, thanked the Lord for the couple moments my mom took to leave those words for me.

If you question the importance of your albums in your loved one's lives ~ think of what a gift a few written words from a lost loved one would be to you.

If you doubt the time is well spent to journal your faith, love, and prayers ~ think of the impact those words and pages will have on your future generations.

If you feel like your albums are just not fancy enough or pretty enough ~ please realize the beauty of quickly penciled words on a plain note card.

If you haven't taken the opportunity to journal your thoughts in your albums ~ begin to view your albums as Love Letters to your loved ones and future generations.

Girls, these scrapbooks don't need to be fancy ~ they just need to be from our heart.

I pray my albums can become even a tiny fraction of the gift that this simple note card has become to me!

Supercalifragilistic news

The Lord is so amazing!

In a beautiful turn of events the Lord has worked to keep the Faithbooking Store open by a new owner!!!

This has been such a blessing to me to see how He has worked to keep His Word in our albums through Christian Scrapbooking Supplies.  He does have a plan and purpose for our albums ~ and, He miraculously works to see that plan fulfilled!

So, while Christian FaithScrappers will be in its early stages over the next few weeks, I want to be sure you all hear the supercalifragilistic news so you have an opportunity to spread the big news around the table this Thanksgiving week as you eat turkey and share love with your families! :~)

A couple quick tidbits:

• As I have spoken with her, I believe the new owner has a beautiful vision for the store and I am excited to see where she takes it.
• We will be working closely together, so, you will continue to get a few updates and news from the store, as well as be able to get there easily from the other Scrapbookers Bubble Bath sites.
• The new owner is offering a Free Gift with Purchase for all orders placed through November 30th.
• Since the goodies are still in transition between our two homes, all orders will begin being shipped Monday, December 3rd.

So, spread the word, stop on over, and, shop till your fingers drop for yourself and Christmas gifts for your favorite crafter!

I so believe the Lord had this timing for the two of us for a purpose ~ We both are extremely excited to see where He has brought us and where He will take us.  As a team, we will be able to provide the ideas, inspiration, and, products you need to Leave a Legacy Unto All Generations!!

Ordinary Miracles

"Pleasure can be found in the world's ordinary miracles"

I found this on the top of a Daisy Sour Cream container, and, thought it would be a beautiful saying in our scrapbooks!

I took this picture on a hike with the kids ~ it's a weed ~ but, man, it was just so beautiful, and, lavender :~)

Our day and world is full of ordinary miracles ~ May you take pleasure in them this week and the rest of the holiday season!

Often, our albums are full of the 'special' days and moments, however, we must be sure to catch the everyday and ordinary part of our lives ~ Truly, those moments are more what make us who we are than the big, special ones.  As I mentioned in a post in 2006 ~ The Mundane is the Legacy Too. 

Use this saying:

• In the front of an album
• A page of 'a day in the life of' pictures
• Nature
• Our family that we so often take for granted
• Before and after of anything from a room, to weight loss, to graduation, to the growth of a child
• A time in your life when the Lord revealed a specific plan for you
• Anything in your life that the Lord shows you is part of His beautiful and wildly amazing world

Cherished Memories Jewelry

I'm just passing on an awesome Christmas gift idea :~)

My neighbor owns Cherished Memories Jewelry, and, has created beautiful pieces ~ many I have on my "To Get List".

The necklaces and bracelets are one of a kind since they are made with pictures of your loved ones.  And, I promise you, the quality is amazing ~ I feel so rich when I wear mine!!  :~)  I plan on getting one of every color eventually!

She snuck around, took pictures of my kids, and made Pretty Purple for my 40th birthday ~ sometimes I wear purple just so I can wear my bracelet ~ and, of course, I have the Sugar and Spice ordered to match Scrapbookers Bubble Bath!

Her newest piece is the Forever Faithful ~ a wonderful opportunity to share your faith as well as your legacy of family and love.

These pieces are perfect ways to take our "scrapbook subjects" with us ~

So, stop over, shop around, and, get a few for Christmas gifts and, of course, a few for you!  :~)

Capture Fall!

I have just found out that Houston doesn't have the beautiful fall that Ohio has!!  Man, are they missing out on such beauty or what!

Fall in my part of the world is such a beautifully breathtaking time of year ~ if I doubt His creativity, all I need do is peek out my window today.

Since I won't be seeing it again, I created my own fall tree in my son for Halloween ~ kinda funny to see him up against the trees.  My little hot-glued fake pile of leaves held up pretty good to all the candy-begging.  :~)

Fall has the most amazing combinations of colors in His world ~ be sure to capture them in one way or another in your albums.

For ideas on on how to use and preserve the beauty of leaves in your album read Get Those Leaves Quick and Colorful Leaf Copies

In your albums, take the opportunity to journal your feelings about nature. Our loved ones will see Him if they read our words of love and awe for His creation:

• Look around your area of the world and take pictures of how you know fall is here.
• If you don't have the changing leaves in your part of the world, journal your desire to experience the beauty and how you feel when you see pictures of fall.
• Do you have any special fall memories as a child?
• What do you believe the Lord is saying through the beauty of fall?
• Do you have a favorite tree to see or place to visit in the fall?
• Do you / did you like jumping in leaves?  Any special memories of leaf piles and raking?
• Don't forget to use scripture about His creation ~ Look up Nature in your Unto All Generations
• The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our Lord stands forever ~ Isaiah 40:8
• Creation and Creatures applaud you, GOD ~ Psalm 145:10

One quick P.S. about the Eternal Splashes store ~ since I paid the host through November, I figured I'd leave it open through November 30th.  So, pass on the word and, perhaps do some great Christmas shopping for your favorite scrapper.  For wonderful faithbooking supplies for your fall pictures, check out the Crossed Paths Harvest Line.

He is "I Am"

Thought I'd share my page created from the "I Am" He Keeps Us Devotional just to encourage you to sit down and make one of your own.

I journaled what His name means to me, as well as a few other names I whisper as I pray and go through my day.

There are so many songs that speak the beauty of His name ~ they all say it so much better than I could ever express on my own....

I had two options ~ make a video of me singing them.....however, with the extreme lack of talent, my fear is that no one would ever look at my albums again :~)

Instead, I thought it better to choose to make a CD of others singing my favorite versions of "Something About That Name", "His Name is Wonderful", "Your Name", "I Am", etc.

Two ideas to point out:

1. Create a page focusing on the Name of Jesus, or His names you most treasure ~ if you need the I Am Devotional, just email me, and, I'll send it your way
2. Burn CDs for any music you would like to include in your albums for special songs, or songs used to create pages such as some of these posted earlier: 

• Why ~ For You and Your Legacy
• Your Growin' Up Music
• My Wish
• Special Songs for Special Someone

Make a pocket for the CD, or use the paper CD sleeves you can get at any office store to include a CD of songs from your childhhod, dating times, worship songs, favorite songs, most cherished hymns, etc.

Of course, not sure how long the CDs will work with the progress of our world ~ I'm sure there will come a day when they will be as outdated as 8-tracks, but, they'll be treasured even then :~) 

He Loves Us ~ And, He Showed It

A couple months ago I agreed to do a small 'break-out session' for a faithbooking retreat a few hours away......Anyone who knows me knows that this was a huge step for me, since speaking in front of groups is one of my top 2 fears, right up there with flying!!

And, in the Lord's "I have a plan for you" way, and, unknowing to me, I evolved into the featured speaker for the retreat ~ yikes!  :~)

But, I must share with you that this little "misunderstanding" has blessed my life beyond words.....

As I have prepared for the weekend sessions, I have had a renewed sense of passion and urgency for us to share our stories, faith and legacy.  We MUST record our love for our family and Christ ~ whether it be in our albums or simple journals, get that love documented!

Most touching to me has been creating the pages for the session in which I was asked to share the gospel.  What started as a complete humble panic for me has touched my heart in beatutiful ways.  As I have made pages that perhaps Christ would make, were HE a scrapbooker, I have been reminded and amazed by His love for me, and all the world.  His love for us was so much greater than we can even begin to imagine ~ While we try to express our love through our albums, He did it so much more beautifully on the cross.

Have you created a page to share the depth of HIS love for you and your family? 

• It can be as simple as a picture of the cross and a scripture such as John 3:16.
• Do an internet image search of Christ, Jesus, or the Cross
• Print a copy of a cross and share the story of His life / love / gift
• There are a few pictures from the Passion of the Christ movie that can help bring a reality to your page that may touch someone in a special way
• Use drawings of Christ with children to journal His love for His children
• Use one of With You Always drawings for you or your loved one's profession and share His love and presence is with us always ~ I LOVE these!!  Take a quick moment to read the artist's story
• Write a letter to your family or each of your loved ones from Him

In absolutely NO way do I think we can even begin to verbalize or document the depth of His love for us. However, I do believe we can use His Story to make an eternal impact through our albums.  The pictures and moments of Christ's birth, life, death and resurrection are ones that we can, and, MUST share with future generations.

He showed His love for us through the cross ~ share that Story in your albums and journals ~ it WILL impact someone's life for eternity.

Jesus and the Twin Towers

I just found this on the web while looking for pictures to use for a Faithbooking weekend I am speaking at, and, thought I'd share it ~ Wish I'd had it for the September 11 Posts.

This would be a beautiful picture to print and use on your page to tell your September 11, 2001 story.

If you already made a page using previous suggestions, and you still would like to use the picture, perhaps use some other suggestions below:

• **Journal how 9-11-01 continues to impact your life now
• **Share how your believe He works even in the seemingly most difficult moments
• **Journal your thoughts on the war ~ include your prayer for the country

This picture was found on Deacon Tony's Place

He Wants to be Your EVERYTHING

He Wants to be Your EVERYTHING!                 (click to view video)

In you albums, have you shared what Christ defeated for you?

While He blesses us through the birthdays and gatherings, He blesses us by defeating the things that draw us away from Him, His beauty, and His love.

Take the time to create a page to share the victories you have in Christ ~ For someone in your family, that very page may be the most important one you will ever make......

** I do apologize to those who subscribe to Held By Him where I shared this as well ~ I just thought is was so powerful and wanted to hit as many as I could with it :~)

My Day on That Day

I, along with others, awoke this morning with mixed emotions as we face the first Tuesday, September 11th since 2001.

For months, I feared Tuesdays ~ that was a day that we were all changed forever.

Be sure to take time to make a page for your family about that day ~ Here is a post with some ideas to get you started.  If you didn't do it then, do it this year.

That day changed each of us ~ share it with future generations.

** Here is the link to an amazing picture I found in October that you can use on your page

What a Wonderful World

Just sharing something pretty amazing ~ If only I could be so talented :~)

Today, may you find yourself able to stop and enjoy What a Wonderful World we have

Scrapbooking Inspiration from this....hmmmm.....how about:

"In your albums be sure to share, and encourage others, to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the simple things in this world"

You are Entering a Construction Zone...

You are entering a major construction zone!

As Scrapbookers Bubble Bath approaches its second birthday, we are frantically working to provide more ideas, products and inspiration.  You know, scrapbooking season 2007-2008 is rapidly approaching!

The blueprints have been created while watching football practice and the alarms are being set for earlier mornings to allow the work to get completed as planned.

While our new store's grand opening isn't until September 2nd, we are open for business, as long as you can scroll over the dust and maneuver your way around unfinished pages.

Here is the latest updates from the foreman forewoman on the project ~ she appears extremely excited about the changes!  However, she may need to claim workmen's comp for thumb pain from typing, clicking, deleting and scrolling.  :~)

Stop by, excuse the dust and address all comments to the SBB forewoman. 

And, be sure to visit again soon as the blueprints on napkins and scratch paper become your favorite places to visit for inspiration to leave little Splashes for Eternity!

Scrapbookers Bubble Bath ~ Not many changes here, just some cleaning up and linking to the new projects.  This will remain the central site and headquarters for the other satellite offices.

Christian Scrapbooking Supplies ~ Newly revealed today since it is in the final stages of completion!!!  This product focused office has the mission to share news and ideas about the products and manufacturers in our store.  **The galleries will be in a constant state of renovation, so, take a picture of your favorite pages and craft works, and, send them in.

Christian Scrapbooking ~ The blueprints are in the final completion stages.  This purpose focused office has the mission to share community and inspiration from other scrapbookers and crafters

Eternal Splashes ~ The backhoes, dump trucks and cranes have been called in here.  Eternal Splashes is SBB's newly acquired store for providing Christian focused supplies for your crafting.  There are only a couple aisles open, but we will allow you in as other aisles are completed and the products are shelved.  While we prepare for the grand opening, all Crossed Paths products are 10% off and Pure-D-Scripture Stickers are 30% off, so, ignore the dust, and, shop now :~) 

Well, the crew is waking up, and, the tasks of laundry and hugs call the forewoman to her priority job of mothering.  The blueprints will be picked back up tomorrow morning ~ Enjoy your visit and, watch your cursor's step as you enter SBB's exciting construction zone!

Lost in This Moment With You

 

Lost in This Moment With You ~ as an excited and proud dad takes his daughter to her dream store to give her a special birthday gift

Lost in This Moment With You ~ as a grandpa, who lives far away, celebrates his birthday with his precious grandchildren

Lost in This Moment with You ~ as a son runs home to show his dad that he received dad's jersey number

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As I woke this morning trying to think of the next post because I'm working on something behind the scenes that I am not ready to reveal yet :~),  the lyrics to Lost in This Moment With You by Big and Rich were running through my head.

This is a perfect wedding song, so, of course, the lyrics would be beautiful in the front of an album or with pictures of the groom, but, I had a thought......

There are so many other moments that we get lost in with our loved ones ~ Here are just a few I thought of.  Do you have any others?  Share yours in the comments below!

• The birth of a child
• The moment two have reached a goal that has been a work in progress
• The first day in a new home
• Giving a special gift to a loved one
• See, the pictures are endless

Use "Lost in This Moment With You" as a title, then journal why that moment is so special.  Journal the feelings, journey, pride, words and details of the picture and situation.

I have also included the song and lyrics below in case you want to copy and paste them in a wedding album or engagement page.

And, what am I working on behind the scenes?  I ain't tellin' until at least the first part if it is done :~)

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Lost in Your Moment With You by Big and Rich

See your momma, and the candles and tears and roses
I see your daddy walk his daughter down the isle
Now my knees start to tremble as I tell the preacher
Don’t she look beautiful tonight
All the wonderful words in my head I’ve been thinking
You know I want to say ‘em all just right
I lift your vale, and angles start singing
Such a heavenly sign

Chorus
Lost in this moment with you
I am completely consumed
My feelings so absolute, there’s no doubt
Sealing our love with a kiss
Waitin’ my whole life for this
Watching all my dreams come true
Lost in this moment with you

I smell the jasmine floating in the air like a love song
Watch my words draw sweet tears from your eyes
Bow our heads while the preacher talks to Jesus
Please bless this brand new life

Chorus
Lost in this moment with you
I am completely consumed
My feelings so absolute, there’s no doubt
Sealing our love with a kiss
Waitin’ my whole life for this
Watching all my dreams come true
Lost in this moment with you

I Own IT!!!

Thought I'd take a picture of myself this morning.....

Why are you laughing??.....

I think I just look joyously beautiful!!!.....

Why do I look like this you ask?.....

How can you too get this look of pure elation?..... (I know, you are jealous)

I could barely sleep last night because, we are now the proud owners of the Christian Scrapbooking.com domain!!! 

After many months of waiting, and a few nail-biting hours of bidding, I was able to call my dad in the hospital and let him know we now own our most coveted domain!

So, now I've gotta get these domains we have snatched up attached to web pages ~ but, with beauty like mine, I figure just looking at the computer will automatically crash the computer complete the pages!

Oh yeah, and, how can you get your own priceless look?.....

Get your own domain ~ I ain't giving mine away!!!   :~)

Thank You!

Just a quick entry to say THANK YOU for your prayers, comments and emails!  You guys are amazing, and, your prayers were powerful.

I was so humbled by your response and words, and, it was very comforting for him to know that there were those praying literally around the world!

My dad did well, and, is on his way to recovery ~ what a miracle that present day medicine can perform such complicated surgeries.

On his way to surgery they put a silver shower cap on his head, and, he said, "You should take a picture for your scrapbook" ~ now, that's my dad!  :~)

As we looked at some albums last night, I found this poem, and, thought I'd pass it on.  Write it down, put it with your scrappping or card making supplies.

Papa Doesn't Care

My ice cream dripped on his good pants, but Papa doesn't care.

His fishing tackles tangled up, his rod is who knows where?

I lost his keys in the garage, Ive made a mess out there.

I'm always getting into things, but Papa doesn't care.

I help him in the garden 'cause we're really quite a pair;

I pull the plants out with the weeds, but Papa doesn't care.

When I'm grown and on my own, when visits become rare,

I won't forget the love I'd get when Papa didn't care.  (author unknown)

I typed this in Word, changed the font to a children's handwriting font, and used this under a picture of my kids fishing with my dad ~ perfect!

Again, thanks so much for your prayers guys ~ you are amazing, and, touched us with your words!

A Special Request

I have to admit I type this entry with a somewhat heavy and kinda scared heart.....and, with a special prayer request...

My father has been taken to the hospital with chest pains, and, we have learned that he will need quadruple bypass surgery.  With of course, the next 24 - 48 hours being pretty crucial.

I share this with you because I know there are many prayer warriors that subscribe to Faithbooking Inspirations, and, because, if you are reading this, then, this wonderful man has touched your life.....

He was the one who encouraged me to pursue the website, taught me sooo much about the web, helped me name Scrapbookers Bubble Bath, and, designed each of the Unto All Generations books. 

He has been my encourager and my teacher through the last couple years as I have seen SBB grow and have continued to follow where I believed the Lord wanted me to take SBB and, now Eternal Splashes.

He has been such a special man to so many people, that I'd take hours to explain, and only begin to go down the list.

And, he's my dad.  :~)

While I face the next few weeks with quite a few mountains, as my mom needs much care, I do feel the Lord's peace and power, and, I take rest in the fact that God is God ~ period.

I'm not one to ask for prayer or send out requests, but, this one is a biggy, and, I believe my dad has impacted each of your lives in some way as well ~ so, I thought you'd like to help me gather His angels and send them to Southwest General in Middleburg Hts, Ohio :~)

May you each feel His presence today and this week and, thanks so much for being a part of our lives!

HE Makes the Birds Sing!

It is no secret in my family I am a bird lover!  They are so free, and, depend solely on His provision and guidance for their every need. 

In fact, my kids can identify the calls and makes of many birds ~ guess I am wearing off on them :~)

This morning as I sat on my deck, listening to the morning singing from my winged friends, I read His praises in Psalm 104, and, found this:

"The birds of the air nest by the waters; they sing among the branches" (Psalm 104:12)

What a perfect verse for a page with pictures of birds!  Not sure how I missed it for the Unto All Generations ~ Scriptures for Scrapbooking series, so, you may want to add it at the bottom or back of a page in Animals or Nature / Creation.

And, for my fellow bird-watchers, here are some journaling ideas to add to your pages with your bird pictures:

• Journal why you enjoy birds
• What made you first interested in bird-watching?
• Which bird species is your favorite?  Why?
• What has been your most exciting / favorite sighting?  Why?
• How do you feel when you hear their song?
• How do you feel when your family members share in your excitement / watching?
• Which bird seed and feeder do you favor?  For which birds?
• Do you have a field guide?  Which one?  Why?
• Journal your prayer to be like the birds and have your own complete dependence on Him for your every need

** I love this picture ~ it is an American Goldfinch in spring, just beginning to get his beautiful bright yellow summer coat ~ isn't God amazing!

Friends Forever

My husband surprised me Saturday with a 40th birthday party with my college friends from over 15 years ago!!!  Words can not begin to express my thoughts as I came in my front door, and, looked up the top of the foyer to see those who shared the most transforming days of my life ~ Some I haven't seen or talked to in 10 years!

Our husbands let us sit and just talk for 2 days straight ~ Allowing us to catch up on how life had blessed us and dealt us some hard blows.  And, throughout the weekend, at various points, someone could be heard saying how nice it was to be around those who were like-minded in our faith, our family, our parenting, and our purpose.

Between the 6 of us girls, we have managed to supply MVNU with a good number of potential students :~)  And, it was truly beautiful to watch these kids, many whom had never met, come together and play so well that they were asking if we could do this every weekend!  Guess it was just in their genes :~)

Those 2 days were such wonderful reminders that there are others like me ~ women who love the Lord with all their heart and just want to serve Him while raising children to love Him too.  He reminded me that I was blessed with such beautiful friends.  He reminded me that He loved me enough to bring them into my life not only for those short 4 years, but, for the rest of my life! These women shaped me and impacted my life as much as my parents.  These precious souls taught me the good and bad about myself, about true friendships, and, about faith in Him. They truly made me who I am today.

After they left Sunday I had a couple of hours to sort through a box of pictures my dad had just brought me.  And, in that box were my college pictures!  I couldn't believe it.  It was so surreal for me to look at these pictures of the girls who had just left.  I truly laughed and cried as I held these snapshots of moments that changed our lives forever. 

To be honest, I was a little disappointed in myself that I, the one who preaches "get those memories preserved and moments journaled," was not able to pull those pictures out at the moment we were all together.  I didn't even know where to begin to look.  How much fun it would have been if we could have looked at those together.  So, here is my challenge to each of you......

Get your pictures gathered up tonight and get sorting tomorrow.  I'm not saying scrapbook yet ~ that mountain for many of us is too big.  I am just suggesting you get them together and get them organized enough that you can at least know what 100 pictures to grab if you are in search of a particular one.  Here are a few organizing tips to get you started:

• Bring all your pictures together in one place ~ don't worry yet about which pack or box is which
• Get a photo-safe box ~ these can be purchased for pretty cheap at a craft store
• Many photo boxes come with tabbed inserts, or purchase some
• Create some tabs relative to ways you can organize your life
• I use my schooling (high and junior-high, college, graduate), houses (Glendale, Woodrow, apartment) and moments (wedding, graduation, birth of each child, vacation)
• Grab a pile of pictures and start sorting ~ adding appropriate tabs as you find new divisions
• Don't worry about some cross-over, just try to think how you think...If you know you are looking for a particular picture later, you will find it, if you just think like yourself :~)
• If you want to use post-it notes to jot down notes and stick to the back of the pictures as you sort, you can, but, I don't take the time ~ I figure if I remember it now 15 years later, I'll remember it when I scrapbook it  :~)
• Sort while you watch TV, while you are sitting on the deck, waiting for the water to boil, or, set a goal of even just 20 a day ~ just start sorting now, not after you wish you had known where those pictures were!
• Once they are sorted, get them in albums ~ don't fancy-dancy the pages ~ just get those pictures in and those memories and words preserved.  You can bet I won't get caught again with my pictures stashed :~) 
• If you are looking for wonderful scriptures about friendship, Christmas, or children, we are offering all 10 Pure-D-Scripture Stickers, usually $2.50, on featured sale through June 23, for $1.50.

I also urge you to call your special friend(s) today ~ they are such precious gifts that we don't open fully up when we allow ourselves to get caught up in the day to day.  You can bet I was already back on the phone with my roomie last night ~ my husband just shook his head and said "You're talking to her already?"  :~)

And, to my precious friends, I love you, and, thanks so much for coming this weekend, and for being a part of my life (again)!

Christian Scrapbooking from Eternal Splashes

As announced on July 4th, Scrapbookers Bubble Bath will be opening an on-line Christian Scrapbooking Supplies store called Eternal Splashes! 

I am so excited about this next step in this amazing journey the Lord is taking SBB on ~ Stickers and papers with His words and reminders of His faithfulness are perfect ways to point to His love and potentially make an eternal impact through your scrapbooking pages and cards.

I have started a new site to provide specific updates from the store, with new products, featured designers and fellow SBB scrappers.  I think this will add so much to the store ~ it will give you more insight into the products, the people behind them, and, who is using them in their pages.

This site here, Faithbooking Inspirations will continue to have faithbooking ideas and updates from Scrapbookers Bubble Bath, but, Christian Scrapbooking from Eternal Splashes will be the site you will want to be a part of to receive store and product updates. There is a easy subscribe button from Feedblitz on the far right, that will send the new posts directly to your email address.

I believe wildly wonderful days are ahead for us, and, I am so thankful to have each of you along with me.  Be on the watch for the first featured company and products in the cart within the next couple of weeks!   

What an Exciting Day!!

Wow, my big 4-0 birthday is here, and, words can not begin to express the joy I feel ~ not in the turning 40, but, in the blessings from Him in the 40 years I have been here!

Turning 40 makes you look where you've been and where you are headed, and, I can say with all my heart, that I am truly excited about the road ahead!!  And, here's why....

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****

1. As promised, Unto All Generations III ~ A Legacy to Eternity, is ready and in the cart! ~ I think I am more excited to see the impact this book can make than did Volumes I and II.  My goal for Volume III was to teach and guide you towards making albums that will make an eternal impact by giving you practical ideas ~ I am earnestly praying that as you use the book, you will feel that goal was achieved.  (Read more and download a sample from the Unto All Generations III ~ A Legacy to Eternity)  This price for the 140 page book will be only $17.99 ~ but it is on sale through July 8th for $12.99 ~ so, pass the word quickly!
2. And, as also promised, SBB has a super steppin' out on faith announcement ~ Through much prayer and in seeking His desire for how SBB can help your albums become thier own mission fields, On September 2nd, 2007, we will be opening a Christian Scrapbooking Supplies Store ~ Eternal Splashes!!!! So far, this has been an amazing experience as I pray He shows me the next stone, I step on it, and, He then shows me the next one.  You'll need to be patient with us as we alter the SBB site, organize the product, and, more importantly, I spend time with my precious 4 this summer.  But, I believe amazing things are ahead, and, providing scrapbooking supplies that point to Him is the perfect next step for SBB! (If you have any products or special requests you would like to see on the site, please email me and, I will do my best to help)
3. With the new venture, I am also working on making the SBB sites with more "clicks" and less "words" ~ my original intent was for the site be relaxing, and, I believe some changes can be made to the site to become more new-user friendly.  Let me know what you think of the coming changes, and, have a beautiful 4th of July!!

Please know that you all have been such a large part of my blessing praises, and, I thank you for coming into my life and being a part of this mission He has set before me!

Well, I'm gonna go eat some cake with lots of buttercream icing, grab a few Mint Double Stuff Oreos and my Diet Coke while I watch the fireworks and look forward to the 2nd half of this wild and wonderful life He has blessed me with!

The Tooth Fairy ~ II

My daughter lost her tooth a couple of weeks ago, and, somehow I managed to get this picture ~ the tooth, still attached to the floss and doorknob, flying through the air!!! 

Everytime I see this I just have to laugh ~ I couldn't have planned it any better ~ this will go down as a classic picture in our family :~)

As I was working on the Unto All Generations ~ Volume III "Lost Tooth" entry this morning, I thought of this picture, and, how much I am looking forward to scrapping it.  This just may have to be one of those pictures that are blown-up to 5x7 and earn its own page! :~) 

So, thought I'd share my excitement in this picture, and, UAG III as I see it in its final stages.  UAG III can still be pre-ordered for $10.99 to ensure you receive it on my 40th birthday, July 4th!  Here's the Lost Tooth entry (Download uag_vol_iii_lost_tooth_sample.xls) I finished this morning just to give you a rough idea of what the format will be. Be sure to email me with any questions or last minute entries you'd like to see.

Keep shooting those pictures, you just never know when you will catch a one in a million shot like this one!  :~)

~ See Faithbooking Inspirations entry "Tooth Fairy ~ I" 

How to Say Goodbye

Summer is here, and, my kids are growing :~)

As I sorted laundry this morning, I was praying for the coming summer and how to be sure I intentionally take time for the special moments with my kids.  Somewhere between the baseball pants and dirty socks, I heard the info about this song on the radio, and, I literally stopped sorting and searched for it. 

It touched my OCD perfectionist personality to the core ~ I know sometimes I get so caught up in "doing" that I miss the "stopping".  In fact, as I typed this, my daughter came down, and, I stopped typing for that extra minute of a hug!!!

As summer rumbles on down, and, we turn the calender quickly, be sure to stop, hold, and, cherish.  The time does fly, and, their dreams do take them far away from us.

Perhaps the video speaks so much more than the words, but, I promise, you need a tissue and will stop to think about the time that is flying by with your family.

Tell me when the time we had slipped away
tomorrow turned to yesterday
and I don't know how.

P.S. ~ These lyrics (in part or whole) would be great words in the front of a tribute, graduation, or going away album :~) 

The music & lyrics for Michal W. Smith's "How to Say Goodbye" are below ~

And, see the video here

Tell me when the time we had slipped away
tomorrow turned to yesterday
and I don't know how.
Tell me what can stop this river of tears
It's been building up for years
for this moment now.

Here I stand
Arms open wide.
I've held you close
kept you safe
till you could fly.

Tell me where the road ahead is gonna bend,
and how to harness up the wind,
and how to say goodbye.

Tell me why,
why does following your dreams
take you far away from me ~
and I knew that it would.

Tell me how to feel the space you left behind,
and how to laugh instead of cry,
and how to say goodbye

Here I stand
Arms open wide.
I've held you close,
kept you safe
till you could fly.

Tell me where the road ahead is gonna bend,
and how to harness up the wind,
and how to say goodbye.

Why?.....For You, and Your Legacy

I have posted a powerfully amazing song ~ Why? by Nicole Nordeman on Held By Him.

As I listened to the words this morning, I thought the words would be powerful in my album ~ Just sharing a few thoughts below....if you have other ideas, share away in the comments :~)

• ~ Use the words as a front page in a daughter's or grandaughter's album

~ Use the words as page embellishment along with a favorite picture of a child

~ Highlight the final verse, "Now I can tell you why, she is why you must die", with different colors, media or font

~ Share how the sacrifice He made for you impacts you, how much you want your family to know Him, or how He loves you / them

~ Include the words and a picture of Christ with a child on the front page of an album or anywhere where you may need to stick in an extra page if you happen to be a "double page spread obsessive scrapper" as I am :~)

~ Burn the song to a CD and store the CD in your album for future generations to hear the song words as they read your words

Leaving the Legacy ~ Coming July 4th!

Unto All Generations Volume III ~ Leaving the Legacy is nearing completion! 

This useful book will be released in celebration of the "Big 40" Birthday coming my way!  :) I figured what a better way to celebrate 4 decades on this wonderful earth than to continue to share my passion for creating scrapbook pages full of faith and legacy. 

This book truly has been years in the making.  I have played with different formats and versions, and, have covered it with so much prayer to be sure that I continue the mission He has set before me.  And, now, I am confident that it will play a part an integral part in many legacies preserved and lives changed through scrapbooks!

Just a few tidbits of info to get you as excited as I am :)

• The format is much like Volumes I and II ~ alphabetical and easy to use
• Includes each of the 30 categories divided into smaller subjects (Children ~ Pregnancy, Infancy, Learning to walk, Loose tooth etc)
• Each category includes hundreds of journalizing prompts, interview questions, memorabilia preservation suggestions and page ideas
• Can be used alone or in companion with Volumes I and II ~ each category of page ideas can be placed along with the coordinating scriptures (Children Leaving the Legacy page ideas behind Children Scriptures for Scrapbooking)

The book will be available for $14.99 on July 4th (yes, that is my real birthday), but, will be on pre-release sale through the end of May.  Order it here for only $9.99.  With a pre-release purchase now, you will receive the book in your email on July 4th, as you celebrate my birthday with me in such an amazing and beautiful way!!   

I just can't type fast enough as I am finally bringing this next dream to a reality ~ He is so amazing with His love and power ~ hold on to Him today and trust in His ways! 

Dancing With Memory

"Lost love is still love, Eddie.  It takes a different form, that's all.  You can't see their smile or bring them food or tousle their hair or move them around a dance floor.  But when those senses weaken, another heightens.  Memory.  Memory becomes your partner.  You nurture it.  You hold it.  You dance with it. (from The Five People You Meet in Heaven)

And, isn't that why we scrapbook?  In a few words, that is why our passion to preserve our loved one's legacy is so strong.  Dancing with Memory ~ it's my children looking through my albums and reading the stories; it's sitting quietly in my favorite big purple chair with a cup of chai, counting my blessings and remembering moments past; and, it's looking through scrapbooks to see how He has loved and cared for us.....Our albums are the recorded music that we dance to.

Even as spring is here, and summer is coming, continue taking those pictures, keeping Precious Papers, recording the stories in you Journey Jots, and, preserving the stories in your albums.  The time you spend will give future generations plenty of dancing material :)

PS ~ if you haven't read The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom, grab a copy.  It's a quick read, and, it'll make you look at life through different eyes.  We truly do not realize who we impact for eternity.

Kids 4 Truth

Just passing on an amazing web-site I found this morning.

While it may not be for scrapbooking specifically ~ you are a part of Scrapbookers Bubble Bath because you have a passion to leave a legacy ~ And, that includes giving our children any material we can to help them follow in His Word and Way

Kids 4 Truth has some great clips on subjects such as creation, wonderful daily devotionals and coloring pages.  I only spent about 5 minutes on it this morning, but, man, does it look AWESOME!!!

Let's see, how can we use this site and wonderful info in our scrapbooks?  :)

• Perhaps you can use some of the coloring pages in your album after they have been colored by your favorite children
• Some of the poems on the clips can be used on the front of an album or as page headers in a gift / small album
• The devotions have soul searching questions that could make an eternal difference or great journaling questions for our loved ones

Have a wonderful Spring's Coming Weekend!!

Adoption

As I read my Bible this morning, I found a verse that I should have included in the Adoption section of Volume I of the Unto All Generations.  Since it would take me forever to go back and contact all who have purchased it, I thought I'd just put it here, and, let you all add it to your books.  These words would be wonderful on a page with the pictures or story of an adoption.

Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this:  to look after orphans... (James 1:27)

As I stressed so clearly in the books, I have tried very hard to not take scriptures out of context.  I believe that His Word is Holy, and, we must be careful not to alter its meaning.  To ensure that I allow each of you to determine the meaning, I included the full scriptures as well as the words that would be perfect on a page: 

Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this:  to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.  (James 1:27)

Look for more of these coming ~ I have a list of a few more that I have found in my times of prayer and study of the Word ~ so, I'll just add them here in a new section Unto All Generations Add-Ons :)

How is He YOUR King?

With Easter just a few days away, I am finding myself in humble awe that He did this for me ~ It is so true that the more I know of Him, the bigger He gets ~ as is written in a conversation I wrote about in Held By Him, between Aslan and Lucy in Prince Caspian

"Aslan, you are bigger"
"That is because you are older, little one"
"Not because you are?"
"I am not. But every year you grow, you will find me bigger"

This Easter I am just sitting at His feet, worshipping Him for His love and sacrifice for me.  He is the King of Kings ~ and, He is My King!

Below are the words from a video clip called That's MY King!  (If you also subscribe to Held By Him, I am sorry for the repeat here, I just want everyone to see this!!!)  As a family we have watched this multiple times, and, now my children have been walking around doing chores and playing Play Station calling out "Now, That's MY King!" ~ let me tell you, that means the absolute world to me!

This would be a beautiful video to play today as we remember Christ washing feet and having Communion with His disciples, Friday as we focus on His Sacrifice, Saturday as we wait for His Resurrection Day, and especially Sunday as we praise the miracle of Easter and the gift of His grace and forgiveness.

And, of course, we gotta include this part of our faith and story in our albums, so, here are just a few ideas you can use the clip to create more legacybooking pages ~

• Print off the words and put them in your album as you journal which is your favorite phrase (mine is "He had no predecessor and He'll have no successor.  There was nobody before Him and there'll be nobody after Him.  You can't impeach Him and He's not going to resign!!" ~ AMEN!!)
• As you spend time with family and friends this week, play the video, or read the words and ask them which words touch them the most ~ record these answers along with the pictures from the weekend
• Create a blank page with stickers or perhaps your favorite Easter scripture, bring a few markers, and, let everyone at the Easter celebrations record, in their own handwriting, what Easter and the resurection means to them, or, have the word to That's MY King available for them to copy a line or two and comment.  (Don't forget to take pictures).  Answers in their writing would be a precious treasure for years to come!

Happy Easter to each of you ~ this is the day we base our faith on, so, worship and love Him as your King!

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Now, That's MY King video ~ below are the words to the poem and, here (Download thats_my_king.doc ) is the words to download if you would like (the words he says in the video, I have highlighted in bold)

That's MY King by S.M. Lockridge

My King was born King.

The Bible says He’s a Seven Way King.

He’s the King of the Jews – that’s a racial King.

He’s the King of Israel - that’s a National King.

He’s the King of righteousness.

He’s the King of the ages.

He’s the King of Heaven.

He’s the King of glory.

He’s the King of kings and

                                                      

He is the Lord of lords.

Now that’s my King.

Well I wonder if you know Him.

Do you know Him?

Don’t try to mislead me. Do you know my King?

David said the Heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament show His handiwork.

My King is the only one whom there are no means of measure can define His limitless love.

No far seeing telescope can bring into visibility the coastline of His shore of supplies.

No barriers can hinder Him from pouring out His blessing.

Well, well,

He’s enduringly strong.

He’s entirely sincere.

He’s eternally steadfast.

He’s immortally graceful.

He’s imperially powerful.

He’s impartially merciful.

That’s my King.

He’s God’s Son.

He’s the sinner’s saviour.

He’s the centrepiece of civilization.

He stands alone in Himself.

He’s august.

He’s unique.

He’s unparalleled.

He’s unprecedented.

He’s supreme.

He’s pre-eminent.

Well,

He’s the loftiest idea in literature.

He’s the highest personality in philosophy.

He’s the supreme problem in high criticism.

He’s the fundamental doctrine of proved theology.

He’s the carnal necessity of spiritual religion.

That’s my King.

He’s the miracle of the age.

He’s the superlative of everything good that you choose to call Him.

He’s the only one able to supply all of our needs simultaneously.

He supplies strength for the weak.

He’s available for the tempted and the tried.

He sympathizes and He saves.

He’s strong God and He guides.

He heals the sick.

He cleanses the lepers.

He forgives sinners.

He discharged debtors.

He delivers the captives.

He defends the feeble.

He blesses the young.

He serves the unfortunate.

He regards the aged.

He rewards the diligent and,

He beautifies the meek.

Do you know Him?

Well, my King is the key of knowledge.

He’s the wellspring of wisdom.

He’s the doorway of deliverance.

He’s the pathway of peace.

He’s the roadway of righteousness.

He’s the highway of holiness.

He’s the gateway of glory.

He’s the master of the mighty.

He’s the captain of the conquerors.

He’s the head of the heroes.

He’s the leader of the legislatures.

He’s the overseer of the overcomers.

He’s the governor of governors.

He’s the prince of princes.

He’s the King of kings, and

He’s the Lord of lords.

That’s my King. Yeah. Yeah.

That’s my King. My King, yeah.

His office is manifold.

His promise is sure.

His light is matchless.

His goodness is limitless.

His mercy is everlasting.

His love never changes.

His Word is enough.

His grace is sufficient.

His reign is righteous.

His yoke is easy, and

His burden is light.

Well. I wish I could describe Him to you, but He’s indescribable.

He’s indescribable. Yes.

He’s incomprehensible.

He’s invincible.

He’s irresistible.

I’m coming to tell you, the heavens of heavens cannot contain Him, let alone a man explaining Him.

You can’t get Him out of your mind.

You can’t get Him off of your hands.

You can’t outlive Him and

you can’t live without Him.

Well,

Pharisees couldn’t stand Him,

but they found out they couldn’t stop Him.

Pilot couldn’t find any fault in Him.

The witnesses couldn’t get their testimonies to agree.

Herod couldn’t kill Him.

Death couldn’t handle Him, and

the grave couldn’t hold Him.

That’s my King. Yeah.

He always has been and He always will be.

I’m talking about

He had no predecessor and

He’ll have no successor.

There was nobody before Him and

there’ll be nobody after Him.

You can’t impeach Him and

He’s not going to resign.

That’s my King! That’s my King!

Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory.

The glory is all His.

Thine is the Kingdom and the power and glory, forever and ever and ever and ever.

How long is that? And ever and ever and ever and ever.

And when you get through with all of the evers, then, Amen.

~ Dr. S. M. Lockridge