graces

The full-life is full of graces. If only I sought to see these graces amidst the hardest moments. Why am I in the habit of reducing the beauty around me to less than has been created for me to see? I am blind.

Ann Voskamp asks, "Why do I reduce the Greatest to the lesser instead of seeing the lesser, this mess, as reflecting the Greatest?" So here I am thoughtfully assessing my circumstance by way of a muddy mind, this mind that is focused on self and time. There is something missing in my life when I do not recognize the graces of then and now and to come. Mother as she played animals with us around the table, Dad's kindness to the nurses despite it all, a friend who's company calmed the shiver out of Chicago's rain, a roommate who sang worship in the shower, husband's laughter that ignites mine in the final moments before sleep, taps of a foot to a bright song, flowering weeds, as well as, tulip bulbs that signal spring, the gathering of faces to the farmer's market come June, birthdays, children, old age, eternity...In this moment of thankfulness I come alive. Grace has found me just as I am. 

miss to mrs.

About 6.5 months ago this dear one was standing beside me on my wedding day. I was so honored and encouraged by her presence there. Now I am deeply honored again because in just a couple days I will be standing up in hers. Since the beginning, Elizabeth and I felt that our relationship was truly edifying and character-refining. She has been a divine source of encouragement. 

Miss Elizabeth, you are a breathtaking woman of God. You truly are an example of one on the pursuit heavenward. I cherish your heart, mind and soul. For your heart is full of compassion for those in need. Your mind is filled with great intellect of His word. And your soul is consistently blooming with the Spirit. You have given me love, Liz, in a way that encourages me to become more of who I was made to be. 

Now, as you take your last steps as a single woman, I cannot express my joy. With everything in me I am confident that you are more than ready to enter into marriage. I have seen you blossom with a true love. Remember to drink in the moments of your wedding day like you would a perfect cup of tea. Taste each sweetest smile and savor the overwhelming wonder of such a perfect day. I will stand proudly at your side thanking God for the plan he has for your life. Mr. Jason Nack is God's best for you and that is celebration worthy. 

This journey is so much sweeter with you. Love always. 

Image via Woodnote Photography

first and last

I am the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.
Revelation 22:13

To all the confused
and downtrodden,
to all the broken
and weary,
and to all the truths
replaced by lies,
He holds the first word,
and He will have the last.

6 months

Jason and I celebrated our 6th month of marriage on March 28th. We delight in remembering these past months and find pure joy in the gift of oneness we now share. Surely the mark of 6 months should be cherished. We classed up for a lovely dinner out in the Village of Wauwatosa. From the savory food to the handsome company, I have never shared a more lovely meal. 2 hours passed with conversation of love, wedding nostalgia, and laughter.

Every newlywed couple is asked this question 10x10 times: "How is married life?"
Instead of reluctantly answering for the 100th time, J and I truly love these multiple opportunities to share how grace has encouraged us in our new adventure together. This single question opens a door for us to show our contentment in the blessing of our vows to each other. Our answer usually starts like this: "Marriage is amazing. Our circumstances in life right now can be challenging but marriage gives us joy. We have never laughed more in our entire lives." In other words, circumstances including finances, my lack of full time employment and mental/emotional health are difficult. However, we do not let these things discourage our marriage. If anything, these said hardships strengthen us as a couple. My husband's fruits of the spirit rub off on me and teach me to look beyond myself into the face of grace.

This is the beginning of 60+ years of marriage. I am eagerly looking forward to our life together. Till death do us part.