Faithbooking Inspirations

ALL I Ever Have to Be

All we ever have to be is who He made us to be!

Subscribers receiving this through email will have to click here since the song doesn't transfer through FeedBlitz

All I Ever Have to Be ~ Amy Grant "Never Alone" CD

When the weight of all my dreams
Is resting heavy on my head
And the thoughtful words of help and hope
Have all been nicely said
But I'm still hurting, wondering if I'll ever be the one
I think I am
I think I am.

Then you gently re-remind me
That You've made me from the first
And the more I try to be the best
The more I get the worst.
And I realize the good in me
Is only there because of who You are
Who You are.

And all I ever have to be is what
You've made me
Any more or less would be a step out of Your plan
As you daily recreate me help me always keep in mind
That I only have to do what I can find
And all I ever have to be
All I have to be
All I ever have to be is what You've made me

This is Who I Am

Who are YOU?

What roles do you play?

How often are those roles changing; even as frequently as minute by minute?

How much and often do we allow ourselves to be EVERYTHING we are?

Who did God create you to be?

Who is God CREATING you to be?

These are questions I've been mulling around in my 41+ year old brain....and, this morning I think I heard Him answer my question of WHO He wants me to be......

His answer?.....

"That's just it my child, for today, You are developing where and becoming exactly who I want you to be."

Wow ~ I stepped out of the shower with a lighter step and a renewed perspective of who I need to be......ME!

While that may not seem like such a life-changing answer to many, I have a feeling it would free a large number of this site's readers to live life in a different way.  Our closets of many hats get so full of who others think we should be that we lose sight of who we, and God, says we truly are.

Sure we are the mothers, wives, daughters, employees and bosses that our daily lives and responsibilities require of us.  But, it is OK to also be the scrapbooker, athlete, dancer, artist, or designer we enjoy being.  In fact, without allowing ourselves the opportunity to do and be what we enjoy, we are cheating God, our family, and, ourselves out of reaching our full potential.

Why the revelation?

While I ran this weekend, I spent the entire 10 miles burdened with overwhelming guilt and feeling downright miserable about the fact that my daughter was sitting home without me playing with her.  I bounced back and forth from being the athlete training for a spring marathon to the mom who believed her family couldn't make it a couple hours without her.  So, I cheated myself, didn't finish my scheduled 16 miles, came home and played Wii with her.  And, for the last 48 hours I've questioned my priorities:  Am I selfish for focusing on myself and doing something I love to do?  Perhaps I should just set my desires and goals aside and focus on the ones who need me.  Or, is setting aside a couple hours for myself a few times a week making me a better mom, wife and child of God?

Running is my sanity ~ my escape ~ my 'solve the problems of the world while I make my grocery list' time ~ my one on one with Jesus time ~ my opportunity to answer to myself, push myself, be myself, and, create myself.   While yes, it may be a few hours away from my family, it rebuilds me and makes me stronger to be the rock they need.  To not take that time for myself truly does cheat each member of my family ~ why would I ever dream of selling us all short? 

What's your sanity?  Is it that weekly scrapbooking night with your friends?  How about the women's Bible study?  Is it a few minutes each morning gardening, watching the birds at the feeder or reading His Word? 

Satan wants us to become distracted.  He doesn't want us to be at our best.  If he can keep us from renewing ourselves, we are less of a threat to his kingdom. 

I challenge ALL OF US to acknowledge what renews our spirit and souls, deflect the guilt laden arrows satan shoots at us, and allow ourselves to do something we enjoy.  Not only can our family survive a few hours without us, but, by becoming who we truly are, our loved ones will be stronger through us.

Dents in My Fender ~ Soundtrack Saturday 10

Got a page to create with pictures of your teen's first little fender bender?

Journal how much He loves us, no matter how big or how many dents we have.

While this is a great set of words for such a page ~ the words and message are great for us, whether we are 20 years of age, or 20 x 4.

If you stop by our home, you'll hear this week's song for Soundtrack Saturday  blaring pretty loud :~)

Free to Be Me ~ by Francesca Battistelli

At twenty years of age I'm still looking for a dream
A war's already waged for my destiny
But You've already won the battle
And You've got great plans for me
Though I can’t always see

(Chorus)
‘Cause I got a couple dents in my fender
Got a couple rips in my jeans
Try to fit the pieces together
But perfection is my enemy
On my own I'm so clumsy
But on Your shoulders I can see
I'm free to be me

When I was just a girl I thought I had it figured out
My life would turn out right, and I'd make it here somehow
But things don't always come that easy
And sometimes I would doubt

‘Cause I got a couple dents in my fender
Got a couple rips in my jeans
Try to fit the pieces together
But perfection is my enemy
On my own I'm so clumsy
But on Your shoulders I can see
I'm free to be me
And you’re free to be you

Sometimes I believe that I can do anything
Yet other times I think I've got nothing good to bring
But You look at my heart and You tell me
That I've got all You seek
And it’s easy to believe
Even though

‘Cause I got a couple dents in my fender
Got a couple rips in my jeans
Try to fit the pieces together
But perfection is my enemy
On my own I'm so clumsy
But on Your shoulders I can see
I'm free to be me

I Believe in You ~ Soundtrack Saturday 9

My three sons all have birthdays within 3 weeks of each other. ~ In 6 days I will be the mother of a 14, 13, 11, and 8 year old....That means I have a house with teenagers!!! 

Daily I earnestly strive to provide the right dicipline, guidance, and love for these precious growing souls. Through my parenting, I try to point back to one important fact:  I want them to know that I, and their Creator, believe in them.  If our children have the confidence that they are created for a purpose and have those who believe in them, they can literally change this world!

As I was cutting my 11 year old's cake the song I Believe in You by Steven Curtis Chapman came on my Zune ~ and, it became the next Soundtrack Saturday post.  It struck me as the perfect song for so many different pages or albums:  Birthdays, Graduation, Wedding, New Path ~ any other ideas? 

(Subscribers may have to click over to the website to hear the song ~ I know some email hosts don't transfer the file)

I Believe in You lyrics by Steven Curtis Chapman

Aren't you the little one
That hid in my arms afraid of the thunder
Are these the little hands
That held so tight to mine

Didn't we both agree you'd never grow up
And now here we are, and here you go
Of all the things I want to say
The thing you really need to know is...

I believe in you
I believe in you
Everything you are
Everything you are becoming

And I believe in you
I believe in you
So spread your wings and fly
On the winds of knowing
I always believe in you

So many prayers we've prayed
So many dreams to get to this moment
Now this is where we stay
While you go change the world

But I'll be where I have always been
Up in the stands cheering you on and singing this song
A song the very God who made you
Has been singing all along 

I believe in you
Yeah, I believe in you
So spread your wings and fly
On the winds of knowing
I will always believe in you

And when you rise and when you fall
I'll still believe in you
Just close your eyes and hear me calling
I believe in You

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

How Many Kings ~ Saturday Soundtrack 7

Thankgiving morning I turned the car on and heard Christmas music!!  Then, 5 minutes later, when I opened the car door at my running park, I was hit with an overpowering smell of pine trees ~ and, said out loud, "Thank you Jesus!"  In an instant, I was brought into the Christmas spirit.  What a beautiful gift to start out the season ~ Music praising Him for His birth!

With Christmas comes lots of pictures and lots of pages to be scrapped.  So, I thought I'd try to give some great sayings for your pages, many coming from some unlikely Christmas music.  

The first one for the "Christmas Seasonal Soundtrack" is titled "How Many Kings" from the group Downhere.

  (See a video here)

• Use any one, some, or all of the lines in the chorus as a topper or tucked in a little empty spot
• Journal which words mean the most to you and why
• Include the words in the chorus, accenting the words Kings, lords, greats, Gods, and fathers(or any other words that you want to stick out) by using a different color, font, or capital letters
• Reference scriptures referring to Him to as King, Lord, etc.
• Write a prayer of your thanksgiving to Him at the thought of coming "All for me"

How Many Kings lyrics by Downhere

Follow the star to a place unexpected
Would you believe after all we’ve projected
A child in a manger

Lowly and small, the weakest of all
Unlikeliness hero, wrapped in his mothers shawl
Just a child
Is this who we’ve waited for?

Cause how many kings, stepped down from their thrones?
How many lords have abandoned their homes?
How many greats have become the least for me?
How many Gods have poured out their hearts
To romance a world that has torn all apart?
How many fathers gave up their sons for me?

Bringing our gifts for the newborn savior
All that we have whether costly or meek
Because we believe
Gold for his honor and frankincense for his pleasure
And myrrh for the cross he’ll suffer
Do you believe, is this who we’ve waited for?
It’s who we’ve waited for

How many kings, stepped down from their thrones?
How many lords have abandoned their homes?
How many greats have become the least for me?
How many Gods have poured out their hearts
To romance a world that has torn all apart?
How many fathers gave up their sons for me?
Only one did that for me

All for me
All for you
All for me
All for you

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

Dads ~ Soundtrack Saturday 5

Last night my dad poked his head in the room and said "It's my year anniversary".  Wow, I can't believe it has been a year since he had his bypass, and, you all were so great with your prayer support.

So, this Soundtrack Saturday celebrates dads.  Here are just a few songs that may fit in pages with your own dad, or pages with the children in your life with their father.  I've included some quick ideas to get you thinking on how you can use the songs, but, of course, the possibilities are endless.

This just tips the surface ~ got any other ones you like? 

**For subscribers, click here to hear "Always Be Your Baby"

Always Be Your Baby by Natalie Grant ~ create a page with pictures of the daghter and father throughout the years

Father's Love by Bob Carlisle ~ use the chorus and journal aspects of your father / daughter relationship with God

Cinderella by Steven Curtis Chapman ~ of course with the tragedy the Chapman family experienced, this song has a deeper and more real meaning. However, through this amazing family, God will be glorified! 

You Can Let Go Now Daddy by Crystal Shawanda ~ (warning: kleenex required) journal the little and/or big things your father did to care for you

With Arms Wide Open by Creed ~ this is a great song for a new dad

Find Your Wings by Mark Harris ~ put this song, along with a CD, in the front of a graduation album with a letter of even journaling or prayer and support from the father

The Real Me ~ Soundtrack Saturday 4

For Soundtrack Saturday 4, I'm gonna give you an unmasked little peek into my heart.....

It has been a year since we made the decision to move to Texas, and, our home has still not sold.  So, I am living between 2 states and learning to love the 2 day trip between Texas and Ohio via van with 4 kids, a big black lab and a GPS that I have yet to figure out :~)

While this time has been somewhat crazy, I can't believe how deeply grateful for it I am.  I have been the only adult in my home for 11 months now.  It is amazing what you see when you don't have someone to 'busy you' from looking at yourself. 

Without my husband around to talk to and busy myself with, I have been placed in a unimaginably beautiful place to stop and see how and who God created me to be. 

Meaning no disrespect at all to my dear husband, precious children, or my wonderful life, I think somewhere in the last many years, to my fault, I'd lost who I was.  I was so busy being the everything to everyone that I'd forgotten the woman I was underneath the costume.  I'd misplaced "The Real Me".

During this time of 'semi-seperation' from my usual life, the Lord has given me a much needed opportunity to step back and begin to uncover the woman He created.  I have realized He sees me as beautiful, strong, individual and worth it.  And, I know I am not the only one that finds that phrase a hard one to claim and believe!

I could ramble for thousands of words about my evolution in the last months, but I will spare you all :~)  However, I will say that He sees 'The Real Me' in each of us.

He creates us in His image; the exact woman He desires to come along-side Him, do His work and grow His Kingdom.  To not become that woman is not only cheating ourselves, but, more importantly, Him. 

Lord, I do pray that these readers are able to see themselves as you do.  May each one look in the mirror today and see something wonderful, strong, and beautiful.  I pray these women reach under their masks and claim the daughter and dreams you've created.  Jesus, you are too powerful and perfect for us to cheat ourselves, and You, from the life You've set for us.  May we each see "The Real Me" today and take the next step towards her.  Thank you for your love and grace!

While "The Real Me" from Natalie Grant has always been on the top ten tracks of the 'soundtrack of my life', it rings even deeper and truer now.  It is a perfect song for the majority of you out there.  Something about us scrapbookers ~ we don't put our pictures in the albums and forget we are part of the story and legacy too :~)

"Wonderful, beautiful is what you see
When you look at me
You're turning the tattered fabric of my life into
A perfect tapestry
I just wanna be me"

(Those receving this by email will just have to bop over to the site to hear the song since it doesn't transfer through the newsletter)

The Real Me ~ Natalie Grant (Awaken CD)

Foolish heart looks like we're here again
Same old game of plastic smile
Don't let anybody in
Hiding my heartache, will this glass house break
How much will they take before I'm empty
Do I let it show, does anybody know?

But you see the real me
Hiding in my skin, broken from within
Unveil me completely
I'm loosening my grasp
There's no need to mask my frailty
Cause you see the real me

Painted on, life is behind a mask
Self-inflicted circus clown
I'm tired of the song and dance
Living a Charade, always on parade
What a mess I've made of my existence
But you love me even now
And still I see somehow

But you see the real me
Hiding in my skin, broken from within
Unveil me completely
I'm loosening my grasp
There's no need to mask my frailty
Cause you see the real me

Wonderful, beautiful is what you see
When you look at me
You're turning the tattered fabric of my life into
A perfect tapestry
I just wanna be me

But you see the real me
Hiding in my skin, broken from within
Unveil me completely
I'm loosening my grasp
There's no need to mask my frailty
Cause you see the real me

And you love me just as I am

Wonderful, Beautiful is what you see
When you look at me

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

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   

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

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 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 :~)

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 :~)

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

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

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!

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

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.

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!

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

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

Your "Growin' Up Music"

A friend gave my husband hours and hours of '80s music, and, as he played these a couple months ago, a group I haven't heard in YEARS came on ~ Air Supply!  Now, you have to imagine that moment as we played Slap Jack with the kids, and, I heard "Here I Am, the One That You Love" begin.....I was speechless and felt like I'd just won a million dollars (well, almost) 

This week he put those hours of Air Supply on the MP3 player for me to listen to on the treadmill.  And, as I listened to those sappy songs, I had to just smile as the memories literally came flooding in.  These were moments that were such important parts of who I am today and memories that I couldn't believe I had forgotten. 

For so many of us, certain songs bring moments that our family would love to hear ~ and we need to share!  Songs bring back special memories with loved ones, spiritual milestones realizing Who HE is, and, well,  just plain "growin' up memories". 

How cool would it be if our family knew the song that got you through those late night college crams, the song that you realized you found your mate for life, the song you loved to play real loud as you cleaned your room, or, perhaps the song that you prayed while you were pregnant with your first child. 

I think those moments on that treadmill have made me renew my desire to create a special album just for songs that have been important for me.  I think you should make one too :)  These albums don't have to be fancy ~ don't worry about the sitckers and colored papers, just get the lyrics down, type what those words mean to you at the bottom and put them in an album or even a 3 ring binder will be treasured for years to come. 

Or, if you don't wanna make an album, just stick the pages right where you are working ~ because, remember, It IS OK to be out of order!

Or, at least get started by creating a folder, and, just begin making some of these "Songs" documents ~ I was really good a couple of years ago and did just that.  I am including some so you can see how simple these can be, yet, how very special to your family such words would be. I'll Be (Download ill_be_done.doc )  Keeper of the Stars (Download keeper_of_the_stars_done.doc ) I Want to Be Just Like You (Download i_want_to_be_just_like_you_done.doc)  and She's a Butterfly (Download shes_a_butterfly_done.doc).

I'll Be 

Keeper of the Stars (Coming Soon)  :~)

I Want to Be Just Like You   

She's a Butterfly   

Making such a page is super easy.......

1. All you have to do to get the lyrics to a song is, in your search engine, type "lyrics to ______" using the title of your desired song
2. Open up a 'new document' in your Word program
3. Copy and past the words from the page to your document
4. Play with the font style, colors, and, size
5. Type your "story, memories or love for" the song
6. Hit 'Print', and, there you have it, a page completed!!

I have just a few links listed below that will help get those memory juices flowing, and, will show you how many special moments we associate with songs.

• Tropicalglen.com ~ This site is awesome!  You can chose a year or other list and have those songs playing in the background.  Although this only has the 50s through 1982, what a blast to listen to!
• John Larocque has some great sites for the 70s.  These songs are listed in alphabetical order of the artist ~ man, just look at those names, and the memories will be flying!!  They also have similar pages for the 80s ~ note Air Supply right on top there :) and the 90s
• In the 70s, 80s, and, 90s is fun because there are coordinating quizzes ~ bring the quiz to your next family gathering, and, the stories will be spilling out!  You can spend hours on this one just renewing old flames, old habits, and, old friends :)
• 100 Greatest Rock n'Roll Songs of the 60s and The Wanderer are just 2 sites you will find if you do a search for "music of the 60s"
• AND, don't forget your spiritual memories and growth!!!  There are great sites like the Cyber Hymnal (this has the stories behind many hymns ~ I LOVE IT!!!) and Name that Hymn, and Hymn Lyrics (this also has praise and comtemporary songs).

Even as I type, and listen to "Still" play on Tropicalglen.com  I remember marching in band at half-time, turning towards the stadium and chills running down my spine as we "brought it home" for the final chorus ~ such special memories that I should share ~ So, get to cruisin' on the internet, and, find those long lost songs whose songs will bring laughter, tears, smiles, and, memories.....then, make and album!!  :) 

My Wish

As I put laundry away yesterday, My Wish by Rascal Flatts played on my blaring stereo :)  And, as I sung these beautiful lyrics loudly ~ only because the kids were all the way in the basement and out of ears reach ~ I had a thought....It is another one of those perfect songs to explain why I have such a passion for creating albums of legacy.  The lyrics say exactly what I want my albums to be about. 

These lyrics are perfect for a parent / child page, a title page, a graduation album, moving album, a newborn album, armed services album or wedding album.  While I hesitated to post them - I figured there are at least a few readers that haven't heard it, so, for those of you who aren't country fans you can hear the song below.

My Wish ~ Lyrics by Rascal Flatts

I hope that days come easy and moments pass slow,
And each road leads you where you want to go,
And if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose,
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.
And if one door opens to another door closed,
I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window,
If it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile,

More then anything, more then anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it,
To your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more then you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

I hope you never look back, but ya never forget,
All the ones who love you, in the place you left,
I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,
And you help somebody every chance you get,
Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake,
And you always give more then you take.

Oh More then anything, Yeah, and more then anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it,
To your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more then you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

Thank You!

I never really appreciated all they did for our country until I worked at a Veterans Hospital.  Then, the men in the pictures of long ago became very real and dear to me.  These were men who had stories, feelings, joys, and fears.  These were men who fought for me and my family to live in an amazing country.  I grew to deeply love and appreciate them, our flag, and our country in a way that I wish every American would.

Now, with approximately 1,500 - 2,000 World War II Veterans dying daily, we are losing a generation of men and women who have given us, and the world, freedom that came with such a high price. 

There is a beautiful song, with a wonderful story, that has been released on the web, and, should be seen by each and every American.  Read the story behind the song here, and, be sure to hear and see the video here.  Then, pass it on to others.

In our daily busy world, we forget to stop and thank those who made it possible for us to have the busy and free days!  These World War II Veterans have stories to tell and are so very precious.  They will be a great loss to our country as daily more and more hear from our Savior "well done".

Find Your Wings

Find Your Wings ~ Lyrics

It’s only for a moment you were mine to hold

The plans that Heaven has for you will all too soon unfold

So many different prayers I pray for all that you might do

But most of all, I wanna know you’re walking in the truth

And if I never told you,

I want you to know,

That as I watch you grow

     I pray that God would fill your heart with dreams

     And that faith gives you the courage to dare to do great things

     I’m here for you whatever this life brings

     So, let my love give you roots and help you find wings

May passion be the wind that leads you through your days

And may conviction keep you strong and guide you on your way

May there be many moments that make your life so sweet

Oh, but more than memories

     I pray that God would fill your heart with dreams

     And that faith gives you the courage to dare to do great things

     I’m here for you whatever this life brings

     So, let my love give you roots and help you find wings

It’s not living

If you don’t reach for the sky

I’ll have tears as you take off

But, I’ll cheer as you fly

     I pray that God would fill your heart with dreams

     And that faith gives you the courage to dare to do great things

     I’m here for you, whatever this life brings

     So, let my love give you roots and help you find your wings

Lyrics to Find Your Wings By Mark Harris

Mark Harris – The Line Between the Two (He is from the awesome group 4 Him ~ This CD will be in my collection by the weekend!!)

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

Welcome to Scrapbookers Bubble Bath Faithbooking Inspirations ~ go grab your Kleenex and read on :)

     That song so says exactly why I have such a passion for legacybooking.  It is exactly why I want my scrapbooks to have more than pictures, dates and guest lists.  I was given these 4 precious souls to nurture, pray over, mold, and one day, give wings to fly on to serve Him and bring others to Him while living this amazing life.  And, my children will look at my albums as they grow, and, long after I am gone.  Scattered throughout those albums they will find words of encouragement, dreams, prayers and eternity.

     As Scrapbookers Bubble Bath goes on a brief "packing and painting leave" for most of April and May, I hope you find help from our Faithbooking Inspirations archives and SBB web-site.  But, more importantly, I pray you find, within yourself, the passion and desire to leave your legacy in your albums.  I believe there is no better place for future generations to read our prayers, our dreams and His Word.

     I am working on the next Unto All Generations release to be released May 31st, 2006.  To be honest, it has truly been inspiring to me as I have planned and written it.  It is called Leaving the Legacy, and, will give us all an easy to remember and use guide to legacybooking.  It is based on using LEGACY as an acrostic to create pages of eternal significance ~ I am very excited as I see the changes this idea has made in my scrapbooking already!

     However, as I have mentioned, moving has occupied so much of my time, that I am unable to give SBB the attention it needs and my heart desires.  So, I have made the very difficult decision to put new posts and changes on hold for just a brief time.  I have prayed and wrestled with the right thing to do, and feel this is what I need to do for myself and my family. 

 

     While I am on leave, Unto All Generations Volume I and II are available for purchase, and, new orders will be shipped.  Also, Legacy Pass It Ons, SBB's weekly journaling e-mail, will continue.  In the meantime, read the archives, and sign up for new posts of Faithbooking Inspirations and Held By Him.  And, visit our favorite links, I posted a couple new ones at the bottom of the SBB Welcome Page.

     Please know you all bless me and that this decision has been one of much prayer and even a few tears.  Continue to love on your family, serve and yearn for Him, and, be ready to create some major awesome pages once I return at the end of May :)

     Take care, and, remember, we are each Held By Him!

   Tina

I.O.U Mom!

With mother's day just a few days away, I have been trying to think about what I should say ~ well, my brother did it better than I could even begin to try, so, read his, and, listen to the song ~ warning....major kleenex needed :)

To my children, on mother's day ~ I can never begin to express in words how blessed you have each made me.  If I had created my life in my mind, I could not have even begun to come close to His wonderful plan!!  Thank you so much for bringing such peace joy, prayer, strength and plain old fun I never dreamed possible.  I pray that I can be the mom you each need to mold you to be all He created you to be ~ And then, may you Find Your Wings, and, "Rock this world for Him"!

To my mom ~ As Aaron's I.O.U post says, I could never begin to repay all you have been to me and all you have given me.  Him or I, had we enough talent, could have written that song on our own.  You taught me how to love and give way beyond I may think I can.  My children and their children will be blessed for all you have done and all you are.  You truly will hear "Well done good and faithful servant!".  I love you!

~~~~~~~~

~ I.O.U Mother's Page Idea ~

I.O.U. for construction work, for building kites and confidence, hopes and dreams an’….. Somehow you made them all touch the sky…..
And for cementin’ together a family
So it would stand the worst kind of shocks and blows…..
And for layin’ down a good strong foundation to build a life on.

Those are my favorite words in the I.O.U song.  I could ramble the how and the why ~ but, I will save that for my scrapbook page:)  In short, Scrapbookers Bubble Bath would not exist today if my mother had not taught me to reach for my dreams and laid such a solid foundation in our family and HIM.

• What part of that song touches you the most, or could have been words from your own hand?  Maybe write those down in your mom's card this year, or better yet, call her and tell her
• Cut and copy those words into Word, print them off, and, put them on a page with a picture of your mother ~ or, if you don't have a picture, just make a beautiful double page spread with the words on one side and your special memories on the other
• Perhaps you can forward the link or get a copy of the song and play it for your husband, mother or father.  Have them share memories from their mom, and make a page for them ~ how cool would that be for future generations to read of ones further back then yours!
• Make your own poem or list of I.O.Us straight from your heart
• Include scripture and how your mother has fulfilled that scripture: *** Her children arise and call her blessed ~ Proverbs 31:28  *** Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all ~ Proverbs 31:29  *** And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children ~ Isaiah 54:13 (Scriptures taken from Unto All Generations ~ sections Mother's Day and Women)
• No matter how or what you do for a mother page ~ be sure to take the time to create one in your Journey to a Legacy book.  Future generations will want to know how this woman impacted their lives

A Sibling Prayer

I have one of the most amazing brothers a sister could ever ask for ~ I could ramble on about what I respect, admire, and cherish about him, but, I found some perfect words instead.  In a million years I could never begin to explain what he is to me better than these:

Give them wisdom and devotion in the ordering of their common life that each may be to the other a strength in need, a counselor in perplexity, a comfort in sorrow, and a companion in joy.  Amen

I think the words came from The Book of Common Prayer ~ at least that is what was at the bottom of the prayer.  And, while they would be perfect for pictures of a wedding, church community members, or even friends, I will use them for the next picture I scrap of my brother and I.

If you are making a Relationship Moments page, a wedding album, or a special gift for a friend, journal these words on a page ~ they say so much even standing alone. 

• Write these words down on a Journal Jot and take a picture of your children and journal your prayers for them, especially as they become adults
• Put them next to your wedding picture ~ remember, as I said in It's OK to Be Out of Order, just stick that picture in there now, and journal how these has been true in your relationship
• Have someone take a picture of you and your husband, sibling, best friend, or parent and use these words
• Use them as a title page of a wedding or family album
• Make a page or poster for your community group at church
• If you have the Unto All Generations, write these in the Love or Family section

I am sure there is at least one person in your life that would be an answer to this prayer ~ let them know today and thank Him for His gift of others.

PS - if think I am just a proud sister and don't believe me how awesome my brother is, check out his blog In Leftfield ~ you'll agree with me that he is a blessing to this world. 

Special Songs for Special Someones

Have you ever heard a song that could have been written by you for someone else in your life?  I know I have many - There are songs that take me back to a moment in time or a person in my life that is so precious I only wish I could send a thank you to the writer.

I heard one of those songs a couple of weeks ago and cried as I looked at my daughter in the back seat - It was Reba McEntire's new song "You're Gonna Be". 

As I heard the song again today, I thought of a picture I have of the two of us and what a perfect page it would make.  So, I thought I would pass on the idea.

Choose a special song that means something special to you about another person and find a picture with or of that person. Get the words, type them into Word, change the font, and print off the paper.  (You can find most lyrics by doing a search, and even copying from the site and then pasting into a new Word document.  If you need further instructions or steps, just email me).

I have made quite a few pages like this, and, they are some of my favorite.  Just a simple picture and the words to the song ~ often I write or type why that song is special on the bottom of the page or on the opposite page.

In fact, as I type, I am considering devoting one special album with pages of the songs that are special to me - how neat would that be?!!  Even neater, download the songs, burn a CD, and keep it with the album.

So, think about it, get those words to the songs and the stories behind them recorded.

And, to my precious daughter - You're Gonna Fly!!!

~ You're Gonna Be ~

Six pounds an' nine ounces lookin' up at me,
Like I have all the answers:
I hope I have the ones you need.
I've never really done this: now I know what scared is.

Sometimes I'll protect you from everything that's wrong.
Other times I'll let you just find out on your own.
But that's when you'll be growing,
And the whole time I'll be knowing.

You're gonna fly with every dream you chase.
You're gonna cry but know that that's ok.
Sometimes life's not fair, but if you hang in there,
You're gonna see that sometimes bad is good.
We just have to believe,
Things work out like they should.
Life has no guarantees, but always loved by me,
You're gonna be.

I'm afraid you'll have to suffer through some of my mistakes,
Lord knows, I'll be tryin', oh, to give you what it takes:
What it takes to know the diff'rence,
Between getting by an' living.

'Cause anything worth doing is worth doing all the way.
Just know you'll have to live with all the choices that you make.
So make sure you're always giving,
Way more than you're taking.

You're gonna fly with every dream you chase.
You're gonna cry but know that that's ok.
Sometimes life's not fair, but if you hang in there,
You're gonna see that sometimes bad is good.
We just have to believe,
Things work out like they should.
Life has no guarantees, but always loved by me,
You're gonna be.

Someone's everything, you're gonna see,
Just what you are to me.

You're gonna fly with every dream you chase.
We just have to believe,
Things work out like they should.
Life has no guarantees, but always loved by me,
You're gonna be.
Always loved by me.

Lyrics to You're Gonna Be sung by Reba McEntire