Sunday, July 24, 2011
Accountability
I am writing this on here for my own personal accountability. I need to incorporate more exercise in my life. So, upon this statement I am trying for a physical activity every day.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Counting Down
As the countdown continues, every day draws closer and closer to our wedding day. Through this season of 2011, SO much has transformed and gone on both for Ben and myself individually and corporately.
Jobs, ministry, family, health, you name it. Through all of the change, it is so amazing to truly be able to testify that Jesus has remained the same yesterday, today, and will be tomorrow. The true Rock and Foundation that we stand upon. Watching Ben and John become business leaders as they transition into ownership roles of American Carpet Care. They have stepped into the light and have been working so hard to both provide to their future families. I am so proud of them both! As the Scalzo house gets ready for sale, PapaScalz heads south to start a new chapter with his wife Tina, Nicky is close by in Green Brook with Noelle and Alex, it is awesome to see how they stick carry such a strong bond as a family unit. You really just don't see that type of closeness very often anymore. It is truly wonderful to be a part of and I admire them for it as they welcome new people into the family as well.
On another note of changes, Ben faced many fears dealing with doctor appointments, etc. but still to find no answers about this questionable pain on his side. It has been a huge lesson in vulnerabilty, growth, and trust.
In terms of the wedding coming, Ben continues to blow me away. His hearts continues to grow softer more and more, which is so amazing to see this in Jesus. He is so supportive, loving, gentle, and kind. Not only to me, but to mostly everyone he comes into contact with. He has such a genuine passion to get to know other people. It is a blessing to see so much of Jesus in our relationship as we have our ups and downs, but through it all, everything is a lesson, an experience, and an honor to be a part of. Bringing two people together as one, is so powerful and also refining to our flesh. Ben once said, " The closer we grow, the more selfish I realize that I am." Which is so true! As we draw nearer even to Jesus our weaknesses are exposed, and His greatness is truly revealed in that!
Even though there will be a few tears for those we will miss on our wedding day; especially Donna, Beth, and my Daddy Rich, we know that that are celebrating with us is Heaven. Singing over us, as we beging this next step together. I have been in a strong season of healing and sometimes struggled with my grief because of the void I know I can't help but feel to want my own father to be with me there on my wedding day. It breaks my heart, but at the same time I trust in God's ways, especially when it comes to my Dad, because only He knows the truth. And that is where I am filled with peace. So even though our wedding day may be missing a few things, it is filled with a Love that is only of God. A Love that will with no doubt in my mind, knock the socks off of people. And what a joy to be a part of that!
My family DID NOT expect for me to be the first one down the aisle, but I thought I would give Mel a break from always having to do everything first. Breaking everyone in a little bit!
As I continue on in this season in this sizzlin summer, I am drawn to His voice and pureness. I don't think we are ever fully ready for anything that comes our way, and that is why all of the Glory goes to God!!!
I have to say that I am beyond excited to see what is in store for Ben and I (and Bubba too) in this short time we have here together, to share Jesus!
I asked Ben, "Are you sure there is no other woman in the whole world you are meant to marry?" And He said, "If I married anyone else, than I wouldn't be marrying the one that I was made for."
Jobs, ministry, family, health, you name it. Through all of the change, it is so amazing to truly be able to testify that Jesus has remained the same yesterday, today, and will be tomorrow. The true Rock and Foundation that we stand upon. Watching Ben and John become business leaders as they transition into ownership roles of American Carpet Care. They have stepped into the light and have been working so hard to both provide to their future families. I am so proud of them both! As the Scalzo house gets ready for sale, PapaScalz heads south to start a new chapter with his wife Tina, Nicky is close by in Green Brook with Noelle and Alex, it is awesome to see how they stick carry such a strong bond as a family unit. You really just don't see that type of closeness very often anymore. It is truly wonderful to be a part of and I admire them for it as they welcome new people into the family as well.
On another note of changes, Ben faced many fears dealing with doctor appointments, etc. but still to find no answers about this questionable pain on his side. It has been a huge lesson in vulnerabilty, growth, and trust.
In terms of the wedding coming, Ben continues to blow me away. His hearts continues to grow softer more and more, which is so amazing to see this in Jesus. He is so supportive, loving, gentle, and kind. Not only to me, but to mostly everyone he comes into contact with. He has such a genuine passion to get to know other people. It is a blessing to see so much of Jesus in our relationship as we have our ups and downs, but through it all, everything is a lesson, an experience, and an honor to be a part of. Bringing two people together as one, is so powerful and also refining to our flesh. Ben once said, " The closer we grow, the more selfish I realize that I am." Which is so true! As we draw nearer even to Jesus our weaknesses are exposed, and His greatness is truly revealed in that!
Even though there will be a few tears for those we will miss on our wedding day; especially Donna, Beth, and my Daddy Rich, we know that that are celebrating with us is Heaven. Singing over us, as we beging this next step together. I have been in a strong season of healing and sometimes struggled with my grief because of the void I know I can't help but feel to want my own father to be with me there on my wedding day. It breaks my heart, but at the same time I trust in God's ways, especially when it comes to my Dad, because only He knows the truth. And that is where I am filled with peace. So even though our wedding day may be missing a few things, it is filled with a Love that is only of God. A Love that will with no doubt in my mind, knock the socks off of people. And what a joy to be a part of that!
My family DID NOT expect for me to be the first one down the aisle, but I thought I would give Mel a break from always having to do everything first. Breaking everyone in a little bit!
As I continue on in this season in this sizzlin summer, I am drawn to His voice and pureness. I don't think we are ever fully ready for anything that comes our way, and that is why all of the Glory goes to God!!!
I have to say that I am beyond excited to see what is in store for Ben and I (and Bubba too) in this short time we have here together, to share Jesus!
I asked Ben, "Are you sure there is no other woman in the whole world you are meant to marry?" And He said, "If I married anyone else, than I wouldn't be marrying the one that I was made for."
Sunday, July 17, 2011
BBQ Favorites
Because I love food...this is what I claim to be some of the top BBQ foods to bring to a party this summer.
Nana's BBQ Ribs. If you are a rib fan, you need to talk to me about this recipe. It is so easy, and makes the most flavorful juicy ribs! It's all about the Sweet Baby Ray's sauce!
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Something different to bring to the scene! If you love hot sauce, you will love this dip! Every time it's at a party, it seems to be devoured in minutes! It has dairy ingredients, so if you are lactose intolerant, you will have to pass on this one.
Stuffed Zucchini. A somewhat healthy alternative. But if you are growing zucchini's in your garden, this is the perfect way to spice it up. Sausage, pepper, bread crumbs, cheese, and more! One bite and you will be flying high!
Chicken grilled with Duck Sauce. Not many have heard of this trick. But buy a jar of duck sauce, and as your are grilling smother your chicken on both sides. It has a balance of sweetness yet still hearty and juicy. Tastes great with chicken breasts or on the bone!
Greek Vanilla Yogurt with Fruit and a Dash of Maple Syrup. The perfect cool down healthy snack. The maple syrup gives it a little kick.
Mango Salad. A new favorite. You can really make any type of salad you enjoy and just add mango. A personal favorite mixture is lettuce, peppers, cucumbers, cilantro, onions, and mango. It has so many juices that the only dressing you may need is a squeeze of lemon/lime. Yummy!
Mojitos. They have been an all time favorite of the best family. My dad has grow pounds and pounds of fresh mint that overflow on the side of our house every year. You can make it alcoholic or non-alcoholic, whatever you want. You need simple syrup, crushed mint, club soda, rum/vodka, and some ice. Some people use sugar as well, but it is all about preference.
Cookie/Brownie Bars. Betty Crocker has this awesome combo box of cookie and brownie mix. Literally just baking both on top of each other in a baking pan and it comes out delicious!!
Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallow, Brown Sugar, and Butter. Pretty self explanatory! Trick is to nuke them potatoes for a little while, to loosen them up, and then either bake or grill them.
Bloomin' Onion. Passed on from Amanda, so simple. You cut out the center of the onion, place some butter and a bullion cube in it, and then wrap it in foil. Stick it in the oven or grill for about an hour, and there you have a yummy tender flavorful onion for a great side or appetizer snack.
Nana's BBQ Ribs. If you are a rib fan, you need to talk to me about this recipe. It is so easy, and makes the most flavorful juicy ribs! It's all about the Sweet Baby Ray's sauce!
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Something different to bring to the scene! If you love hot sauce, you will love this dip! Every time it's at a party, it seems to be devoured in minutes! It has dairy ingredients, so if you are lactose intolerant, you will have to pass on this one.
Stuffed Zucchini. A somewhat healthy alternative. But if you are growing zucchini's in your garden, this is the perfect way to spice it up. Sausage, pepper, bread crumbs, cheese, and more! One bite and you will be flying high!
Chicken grilled with Duck Sauce. Not many have heard of this trick. But buy a jar of duck sauce, and as your are grilling smother your chicken on both sides. It has a balance of sweetness yet still hearty and juicy. Tastes great with chicken breasts or on the bone!
Greek Vanilla Yogurt with Fruit and a Dash of Maple Syrup. The perfect cool down healthy snack. The maple syrup gives it a little kick.
Mango Salad. A new favorite. You can really make any type of salad you enjoy and just add mango. A personal favorite mixture is lettuce, peppers, cucumbers, cilantro, onions, and mango. It has so many juices that the only dressing you may need is a squeeze of lemon/lime. Yummy!
Mojitos. They have been an all time favorite of the best family. My dad has grow pounds and pounds of fresh mint that overflow on the side of our house every year. You can make it alcoholic or non-alcoholic, whatever you want. You need simple syrup, crushed mint, club soda, rum/vodka, and some ice. Some people use sugar as well, but it is all about preference.
Cookie/Brownie Bars. Betty Crocker has this awesome combo box of cookie and brownie mix. Literally just baking both on top of each other in a baking pan and it comes out delicious!!
Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallow, Brown Sugar, and Butter. Pretty self explanatory! Trick is to nuke them potatoes for a little while, to loosen them up, and then either bake or grill them.
Bloomin' Onion. Passed on from Amanda, so simple. You cut out the center of the onion, place some butter and a bullion cube in it, and then wrap it in foil. Stick it in the oven or grill for about an hour, and there you have a yummy tender flavorful onion for a great side or appetizer snack.
Kingdom
Something that what revealed to me today in a different way was the word "invisible." I am guilty of so much of my mind being focused on the visible, what I think that I see and know, when these verses share so beautifully otherwise...
Matthew 6:6 -But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Our Father is invisible. We see "in part," but as it says in the book of Corinthians, only God can reveal mysteries to us through His Spirit, who in most cases is invisible.
Luke 17:21 says, "Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you." The kingdom! That seems almost impossible, for a kingdom to be inside of us. Allowing ourselves to truly meditate on that verse, the royalty, the love, the power, the peace, the realm that is inside of us, is beyond what our minds can fathom. All of which make up our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. "
John 14:23 Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.
Romans 8:9 You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.
Ephesians 2:22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
What beautiful, life giving words to hear. May they speak to you and draw you closer in to our Father. Thank you Lord.
Matthew 6:6 -But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Our Father is invisible. We see "in part," but as it says in the book of Corinthians, only God can reveal mysteries to us through His Spirit, who in most cases is invisible.
Luke 17:21 says, "Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you." The kingdom! That seems almost impossible, for a kingdom to be inside of us. Allowing ourselves to truly meditate on that verse, the royalty, the love, the power, the peace, the realm that is inside of us, is beyond what our minds can fathom. All of which make up our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. "
John 14:23 Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.
Romans 8:9 You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.
Ephesians 2:22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
rain drops
falling on high.
we wait for that morning star in the sky.
pouring down, ready for the flowers to grow.
the vibrance on the rainbow that we all want to show.
we wait for that morning star in the sky.
pouring down, ready for the flowers to grow.
the vibrance on the rainbow that we all want to show.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
"Man Does Not Live on Bread Alone"
...but on the Word of God.
After watching The Ten Commandments for the very first time with Ben, I was touched by how amazing the film was. Even being made years ago, the quality and story were great.
I am ready to dive deeper into the beginning of the Old Testament. Being able to learn more about God's messenger, His lawgiver, and prophet, I was able to see much of His Christlike character. Symbolism between who Moses was and who Jesus is.
Moses was obedient to God's calling, for the Living Word says "He desires obedience and not sacrifice." To see how Moses did not want to hear about God, or listen to other people talk about Him. But He would only believe through a TRUE encounter with the Lord on his own.
That is so deep and touching to my spirit because that is exactly what we can quickly look passed today. We can go to church, attend Bible studies, do good deeds, but have no direct relationship with the Lord. We can easily "milk" off of other people and never enter into intimacy with Christ.
A great quote states "When you stop living for God, you can start living with Him." So intense! That this is not by works but by pure grace He has called us to His throne of Mercy. Who do we truly follow? Is it a church system, or what others may think of us? Or do we listen for the voice of the Lord to direct us?
It is not always that easy...to trust Jesus. But He says in His word, "He is patient." And He is with His people. He must be, to be so mocked and forgotten by many He created.
Some ask..."What is God's will for my life?" And through revelation of Jesus Himself, I have experienced a deeper answer. He IS our will. Our will IS to know Him, and live through His Breathe. To live through Him and with Him. To bring glory to His name. And all of the rest of the journey, automatically pours out after. The good deeds, the missions, the evangelism cannot be the main focus. Jesus is our main focus, our Prize, our Savior. And through that relationship, the ministries may come.
"He is everything in us all"
After watching The Ten Commandments for the very first time with Ben, I was touched by how amazing the film was. Even being made years ago, the quality and story were great.
I am ready to dive deeper into the beginning of the Old Testament. Being able to learn more about God's messenger, His lawgiver, and prophet, I was able to see much of His Christlike character. Symbolism between who Moses was and who Jesus is.
Moses was obedient to God's calling, for the Living Word says "He desires obedience and not sacrifice." To see how Moses did not want to hear about God, or listen to other people talk about Him. But He would only believe through a TRUE encounter with the Lord on his own.
That is so deep and touching to my spirit because that is exactly what we can quickly look passed today. We can go to church, attend Bible studies, do good deeds, but have no direct relationship with the Lord. We can easily "milk" off of other people and never enter into intimacy with Christ.
A great quote states "When you stop living for God, you can start living with Him." So intense! That this is not by works but by pure grace He has called us to His throne of Mercy. Who do we truly follow? Is it a church system, or what others may think of us? Or do we listen for the voice of the Lord to direct us?
It is not always that easy...to trust Jesus. But He says in His word, "He is patient." And He is with His people. He must be, to be so mocked and forgotten by many He created.
Some ask..."What is God's will for my life?" And through revelation of Jesus Himself, I have experienced a deeper answer. He IS our will. Our will IS to know Him, and live through His Breathe. To live through Him and with Him. To bring glory to His name. And all of the rest of the journey, automatically pours out after. The good deeds, the missions, the evangelism cannot be the main focus. Jesus is our main focus, our Prize, our Savior. And through that relationship, the ministries may come.
"He is everything in us all"
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
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