Regarding Amy
Walk Around The City
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
So, it’s been awhile. That seems to always be my intro. You’ll have to forgive me. My life stays pretty busy and in reality I just don’t think about posting every night.
God has been doing so much the last two months. He is moving abundantly in our church. I cannot even tell you the things we’ve seen already. God is bringing us to a totally new level. God is bringing ME to a totally new level. Words cannot express. There’s an anticipation for what God is going to do next.
It always happens though, that when you’re in a good place and God seems to be moving and blessing, the enemy comes in like a storm. He fixates on what He knows about you. He knows how you typically react to things, so it’s easy for him. Don’t you know that he watches your every move? A friend and I were discussing the cycle I seem to be in lately. Do you ever feel like you’re in a cycle...just as soon as you think things are gonna go smoothly for awhile, here comes some more trouble. I told my friend, honestly, that I was tired of fighting the cycle. She said that if the children of Israel would’ve stopped walking around walls the 6th time, they would’ve never seen success. She’s right. Her conclusion...stop fighting so hard, and just walk. Isn’t GOD supposed to fight our battles for us? I have to agree. I suppose we assume that we’re the one’s that need to fight ALL the time. Certainly there are times when we much fight...but there are times when we’re supposed to walk around the wall (or the cycle) and wait for the next time round when you can shout.
God told Joshua, “I have delivered Jericho into your hands...” I truly believe that God has delivered MY Jericho into my hands, but first I must march around it. Jericho represents my trouble. Joshua told his people to ADVANCE around Jericho and that’s what I plan on doing. In times of trouble (Jericho), He will never leave us. He’s just waiting to give us the cue to shout. Once the walls fell, Joshua cursed the man who would try to rebuild it. Once the walls to my Jericho fall, I will curse the enemy who tries to rebuild the Jericho that God pulled down.
I don’t know what kind of cycle your in, if you’re like me, it seems like one that you can’t get through. It’s always the same thing. I’m confident though, that God is going to allow me to cycle through ONE more time, only to allow me to SHOUT the cycle down and walk on to Victory!!
In other topics of my life. I’ve been doing a little research on my genealogy. It’s pretty neat. I’ve found out some interesting things thus far and I’ve still got a LONG way to go. The sad part though is that it’s as if I’m starting from scratch. My grandmother on my mom’s side is suffering from dementia as well as my grandfather from my dad’s side. I can only go on what others remember them telling them.
I’ve been working on a few new websites.
Brothers Forever (http://brothersforever.net)
Wendy Word and Forgiven (http://wendywordandforgiven.com)
CrossPoint Quartet (http://crosspointquartet.com)
I’m currently working on and still in construction: Homeland Entertainment (http://homelandentertainment.com) and myTeamABC.com (http://myteamabc.com)
Where have all the Bing's gone?
Thursday, December 28, 2006
So, it’s been awhile, I know. I apologize. I told ya’ll I’m not good at this type of thing. Finding the time to write and thinking about what I’m going to write about is my struggle. Today, I took the day off. In fact, we have “closed the office” through the 3rd of January. It’s been a nice and refreshing break - and catch up time.
Christmas was wonderful. I ate LOTS of food and got everything I wanted. My family safe and sound, my famous Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas, and a NEW Crockpot! RED, I might add. Some of you know, but some may not. I have moved so I’ve been missing many items that one takes for granted. LOL A Crockpot, toaster, CAN opener, microwave, and more. You know, all the necessities.
For those who know me, you know that Christmas is my FAVORITE holiday. If I could, I’d leave my tree up all year long. I truly feel it is THE MOST romantic time of the year. Call me a sap, I can’t help it. My favorite thing to do is cuddle on the couch with a blanket and pillow, turn off the lights, and watch all the HALLMARK movies I can, as well as the traditional, White Christmas - starring Bing Crosby. Which leads me to the title of my entry. Where have all the Bing’s gone? Maybe I’m just weird, but I would do anything to go back and live 50 years ago. Some say I’m from a complete different era. LOL
Where have all the boys gone that treat a lady with respect? Where have all the boys gone that treat PEOPLE with respect? I so would have loved to have been courted. Maybe someday God will allow me that privilege, but for now, I only dream of a day when the boy came to the house and greeted the parents, the kids went out and came home by nine. LOL And of course, sang their way to LOVE! 
Although, I realize that singing in the middle of a conversation is not a reality, I do wonder about the innocence that we’ve lost. The innocence in every aspect of life, and not just “courting”.
Bing Crosby is my hero. Well, at least the characters he played. And at Christmas, I find myself wrapped up in the innocence these movies portray. Christmas is about innocence. From Bing to a baby in a manger. Maybe that’s why we all catch the “Christmas Spirit” - innocence comes back to us.
Yes, I’m a sentimental dork, I can’t help it.
God is really moving in my life. I am thrilled and excited, anticipating what He’s going to do in the coming year. We’ve had some church services, whoo!! Let me tell you...how’s that ole SG expression go..."if that don’t light your fire, your woods wet!”. I have the most wonderful pastor. He speaks from his heart, and follows the direction of the Holy Spirit. There’s a true move of God happening and I’m so excited to be apart. I just have to find some mascara that will stay on through all the tears. God has been molding me, breaking me, and then molding me again. I have needed this long Holiday break from singing. It’s definitely revived my spirit and preparing my heart for so much more than I can imagine!
As this old year comes to a close there are so many things I’m thankful for and a few things I regret. But I look forward, pressing on to the one true prize God has set before all of us; Praying and hoping that every step of my life in the coming year will be directed by God. I am grateful for my family, who has allowed me to lean on them, who comforts me even when I don’t say that I need it, and loves me even though I can be a true SHE-DEVIL. I’m grateful for my best friend, and where God has brought us together, for her children who have taught me that raising a family is HARD work but when done right, something to be proud of. I’m grateful for my second MOM - for showing me how strong one can be in the middle of what seems like life’s worst nightmare - you are thus far the strongest woman I’ve ever met! I’m grateful for my church group, the TNT’s...who have grown with me spiritually, and don’t judge me for my faults, but love me just the same. I’m grateful for “The Pineapple Girls” - you know who you are - you will never know (each one of you) how you have touched my life and encouraged me in my day to day single life. WE ARE ALL PINEAPPLES - even if we feel like sour grapes. I’m grateful for prayer warriors - who I can call or text message at 3:00 AM when our car gets hit by a deer - YOU are a true FRIEND!!! And most definitely grateful for my pastor and Mrs. Pastor who I’ve come to love so dearly this past year. They will probably never know their influence in my life, or how they’ve encouraged me, or just loved me through some trials without even saying a word. No Christmas present could ever say thank you enough to any of these people for the blessings they have bestowed on my life.
So many peeps, so little space on the net. I can’t help but thank GOD ALMIGHTY for all He’s given me this past year. Friendships I thought might be over God turned to teach us BOTH lessons. He holds all things in His hands and I’ve seen that this year! I can only hope for more of that this coming year!
SO, as I’m wiping the tears from my eyes, thinking upon all that God has blessed me with, I leave you to think of where God has brought you from, and where you are today.
GOD IS GOOD!!! LUV to all!!
AM Out!!
A moment for pics!
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Hey all! Just taking a moment away from work to give an upate on me and my crazy busy life.
Here are some pics of the damage to the van. Thus far, we have seen God working everything out, with no complications. As you can see from the pics, the deer hit the front driver’s side bumper, then from what we can tell, rolled across the side of the van. We were very fortunate that the deer did not hit the front of the van.
Other news...today, I got a letter from the child that Chris and I sponsor. Some of you may not know, but Sunday Edition has began a working relationship with Compassion International. We are so excited to see what God will do with this. 
In the meantime, Chris and I are working together to sponsor a child. We are sponsoring a little boy from East Indonesia. His name is Rivaldo. We got a letter today from him. He’s only 4 years and 5 months old. Obviously he didn’t write me, but his teacher wrote for him. He loves playing with his friends and singing. He’s precious and I’m excited to be able to help him and watch him grow! Talk about a day brightener. If you don’t sponsor a child I would recommend you look into it!! 
I’m working on about 5 new websites. As soon as I get them up and running, I’ll let you know so you can view them. One that is just about done is a re-design for Geron Davis and Kindred Souls. Check it out: Geron Davis & Kindred Souls Online
I’ve finally got around to fixing up the other pics from Disney World (the trip I took in August)! LOL I know, I’m slow! Enjoy these and I’ll post again soon:
LOVE & PEACE
AM
Oh Deer!
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
So this weekend was fun! We always enjoy our time with MAGMA peeps! Hopefully we’ll be able to get a little more involved next year. I love to see people eager to work together for the good of what they love!
We didn’t have a Sunday booking so we decided that since we had to go through Sikeston, MO we would stop at Lambert’s (Home of the Throwed Rolls). We left Farmington, MO (at about 1:00 am towards) Cape Girardeau to stay the night there. Cape is only about 20-30 miles from Sikeston. At approximately 2:15ish, we were all slightly ajarred by a huge THUD. It sounded as though we ran over something. LOL Well, we did sorta! Seems a pretty good size deer decided he wanted to try to knock us off the road. Mom and Dad seemed sure it was a deer, as they were sitting up front and could see more than me and Chris.
I wasn’t totally sure so I decided to jump out of the car with dad to see the damage. A nice young gentleman stopped to see if we were all right. He saw something happen with us and the deer but he didn’t know to what extent or if we needed any help. He ran to both mile markers to check out where we were so we could call the state patrol office. From the look of the damage we can only guess that the deer ran into us. We were extremely fortunate that the deer did not go through any windows or the windshield. If we were 3 seconds sooner, that deer would’ve been on top of Mom and Dad in the front. The young man looked at me and said, “God sure has mercy”. I said, “THAT He does.”. We thanked him for his help, and Dad gave him a CD! I pray it blesses his life!
About 20 minutes later the state patrol officer showed up and wrote a report for insurance purposes. Apparently it was a pretty big deer. The officer told dad that if his wife was more into cleaning game, he’d call her up and have her come pick it up! LOL Finally we were back on the road and got checked into our hotel about 4:00 am. The lady at the Pear Tree Inn in Cape let us have a late check out and gave us a deal on the room. God totally worked it out for us.
Once we got a little sleep it was off to Lambert’s. THe full damage to the van is unknown. We can’t open the rear sliding door at all, and the driver’s side door won’t open all the way. We are praying for God’s favor in the whole insurance ordeal. He’s not a halfway God, so I know that since He kept us safe during the event, and then provided us extra sleep (with the hotel) to make up for what we lost, He WILL provide what we need to get the van fixed. Dad write’s a little about the event on his blog here. If I can get the pics from Dad, I’ll post em for you to see!
On to the good part of the trip...Lambert’s!
Now, I must tell you that if you have never been to Lambert’s you are in for a real treat. YES, they do throw the rolls, and they are HOT! But they are well worth the slight singeing of the hands! Lambert’s is unique in the fact that not only do they throw the rolls, but they pass around what we like to call FREE food! You pay for a meal, I usually get the Country Fried Steak, but as an added bonus, peeps come by with extras to add to your plate. These extras include such items as fried okra, fried potatoes, macaroni and tomatoes, and more!! YUM! It’s quite an experience. Warning to anyone who does actually decide to take a trip to Lambert’s. You get LOTS of food...so eat SLOW! :p
I’m outta here! Got LOTS of work to catch up on!!
PEACE, LOVE, and BLESSINGS to you all!
AM
It's early
Friday, October 13, 2006
Yes, that’s right folks. I am up at 6:30 am! Going on a little over 2 hours sleep. I can hear the little teeny boppers outside my window as they are walking toward the bus stop. Most of you know how I feel about them there teeny boppers! UGH!
We are heading out in about an hour and a half towards Farmington, MO for the MAGMA (Mid America Gospel Music Association) Convention. We attended there last year for the first time and had a blast. We’re pretty excited about being invited back.
I can’t stay long as I have to hop in the shower and make sure everything else is packed up! I did want to say that I’m a horrible blogger. I’m confessing right now so that in the future when I don’t update when I say I’m going to update, you all can’t be mad at me. I know many of you (my fans!) are just sitting there waiting for me to come up with some funny stuff, or some thoughtful piece of wisdom. Sorry for your disappointment! LOL (totally kidding!)
Had a GREAT birthday on the 1st of this month, not sharing how old I am, sorry again! The Lord has been good and has given me peace over my work load. As I posted in confidence regarding Sunday, MY GOD SUPPLIED! I got an over abundance of His mercy and I’m pumped to see what He’s going to do in the future. Our TNT group has been seeing God move the last couple bible studies and we’re stoked to see what MORE He has in store for us! God is GOOD!
I just have to give a shout out to Mr. Parker! I used to work with him at Goody’s (been awhile). He’s a funny character with a great spirit! Mr. Parker, you’ve been on my mind and I just want you to know that you are awesome! LOL Praying for you!
On to my last bit of detail before heading out! The single peeps I truly believe will appreciate this article. Interesting information on *insert drum roll here please* DATING! See some excellent points on dating and what we Christians have made it! The article can be found HERE !!
I gotta go! Later peeps!
PEACE, LOVE, and JOY!!
AM
Been Awhile
Saturday, October 07, 2006
I know, it’s been awhile. I’ve probably lost the two readers I had. Things have been oh so crazy here. It’s way past my bed time but something inside told me I needed to write. So, I’m writing. I feel the need to be an open book here. So here goes…
I never got the other Disney World pics up, although they are ready to be put up I just haven’t had time. I’m at the point where I feel like I’m all work and no play. Ever feel that way? I’m swamped with work (I’ll be introducing some new sites, as well as re-designs shortly). I feel like I’m drowning in work, and only allowed to come up for air every month or two. My mind runs on working and making money to pay the bills, while my heart runs on needing time to sit in quietness with Jesus. Funny, I just bought a book to read. It has to do with separating my work and my life. I haven’t had time to even start reading it. Anyone else ever feel this way. Like you can’t breathe.
We’ve been singing a LOT! This is good, but hard to get adjusted to. Now we are at a point where we are slowing down for the holidays. I look forward to that, but now I have to get caught up with my work. I really feel our group is fixing to do things that we’ve never even dreamed, and I want to be ready. But man, life is hitting me hard. I really need a break from all the noise in my head reminding me of all the stuff I still need to accomplish. I feel as though Imagine being stuck in quicksand, with no tree branches or rope to grab onto. Nothing available to help you pull yourself out. You feel the sand sucking you in. What’s worse is you feel all alone. TRAPPED!
LOL I guess I just need a life. Most of you probably have no clue as to what I do. That’s ok. Some of you do. Some of you know how much of my heart goes into every little thing I do. Even though that can sound like a good thing, it makes for a very easily broken heart. Sensitive, I guess. I’m all about business. But I love what I do because I get to help artists make a step in a new direction. I get to help artists portray themselves the way they NEED to be portrayed. That’s a heavy burden that most people never know you carry. I love my job, and wouldn’t trade anything for it!
Even when I’m away from work, I’m still never really away. I live, eat, breathe, and sing gospel music. I’m just frustrated that I don’t have enough time, money, and energy to do what I want to do with my business, with my life. I’m sure I’m not the only one that’s ever felt this way.
Tomorrow (today - technically) is Sunday. I’m going to church. But before I go, I’m going to rest in HIS peace. HIS peace passes all understanding. It passes all the noise in my head telling me what I need to do, and what I haven’t done yet. It passes the drowning feeling and pulls me up out of the sand, when I can’t do it myself. Tomorrow I will get my fill to continue on the journey God has placed before me. I will be encouraged by my Pastor’s words, and uplifted by the praise I present to my Heavenly Father.
Tomorrow is another day.
Peace and LOVE!
AM
Pictures
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Here are some pics of our visit to MGM, Epcot, and Downtown Disney. I have a few more pics of Magic Kingdom, but I have to down size them first.
Enjoy!!
MGM Studios
Epcot
Downtown Disney
Vacation Time
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Yes...I know it’s a shock, but I am on vacation. It feels totally weird, and I’m not sure what to do with myself. Chris and I headed to Florida for the Assemblies of God Fine Arts. It’s a talent competition within the AoG that provides scholarships to the winners. We have several of our church’s kids going. They have all done exceptionally well, most of them grabbing Superiors to Superiors with Honors. We’ll know the final scores on Friday evening.
While we’ve been here in Orlando, we have made sure we take some time to enjoy the area. Monday we went to MGM Studios where we saw a Muppet 3D movie, The Great Movie Ride, and a few others. We also got to ride the Tower of Terror, which is basically supposed to be an old hotel, where the elevator goes crazy. They put you in these seats that are inside an “elevator” and then make the elevator fall a couple floors, fly back up, fall a few more floors, fly back up, and then fall all the way down, then go back up, etc. You’re rear literally comes off the seat about 3 inches...and you have nothing to hang on to. It was so fun, although, I’m not sure my friend Leah has an arm left. I didn’t have anything else to hold on to, so I had to hold on to her arm. LOL It was a total thrill!
After MGM, Chris had orientation for Fine Arts (he is a judge). Leah and I hopped over to Epcot. We traveled the whole world while we were there. And then rode Test Track. It’s a ride that takes you through the process of test driving cars. I took some pics...they will be posted in the next day or two. I gotta take some time to upload them.
Tomorrow, not sure what we are doing....Friday we are going to Magic Kingdom. Yah! So excited...can’t wait to be a kid for the day!
AM out!
Busy, Busy, Busy!
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
If anyone would’ve ever told me when I was younger how busy I would be now, I wouldn’t have believed ‘em. I can’t even grasp the concept of a day off. My brain is always moving, thinking of something I need to be doing. I’ve always got things going on, either concerts to go to, festivals to plan, trips to take, friends printers to fix. LOL
I’m blessed though. God has given me the opportunity to work with fabulous people. GENUINE people. I couldn’t have asked for a better job.
Southern Spin is pickin up, we are in talks with a few artists. Please be in prayer for us, so that we and they make the right decision. I’ve also started a few new sites..not sure if I’ve shown you or not. The Dunaways (http://dunawaymusic.com) and The Pathfinders (http://thepathfinders.com). Working on an update to Geron Davis and Kindred Souls (http://gerondavis.com)
NQC is just around the corner. We are gearing up for a great week there. Got a lot going on that week, and as we get ready to make announcements regarding it, I’ll let you know. We will have our annual showcase there, at the Canterbury Room in the Executive Inn. This will be on Thursday of NQC. If you’re attending, please stop by and see us.
Our (Sunday Edition) new project should be available by NQC. We are so pumped over this. We cannot thank Donna Beauvais and Steve Allen enough. You can hear clips of it on our MySpace: http://myspace.com/thesundayedition
We’ve also re-designed our website, so be sure to stop by there and let us know what you think of the new design: http://sundayedition.net
Between Steve Hurst School, which was amazing btw, and then our Fan Festival, which was even more amazing...I’m pooped! So, I’ve decided to take a vacation. I will be out of the office playing with my new MacBook next week. Chris and I are heading down to Florida for Fine Arts Festival. Chris will be a judge. I’m just going to go. I think we are going to head to Disney World one or two days while we’re there. Can’t wait. I need this desparately.
Hopefully, everyone will be satisfied with my update and I can finish importing all my info to my new MacBook. Did I mention that I got a new MacBook? LOL Can’t believe I crossed over!
I gotta jet...lots to do!
LOVE!
It's About Time
Friday, June 30, 2006
So, I’ve been told by several people now that I need to update. I don’t know what to update with. So I’m going to post some random things.
Quotes
Found this quote on a message board, thought all my single peeps would enjoy it:
“Love is a butterfly, which when pursued is just beyond your grasp, but if you will sit down quietly it may alight upon you.” - Nathaniel Hawthorne
Sims 2 - Open For Business
SO FUN!! But a lot of work. My sims aren’t too good at business right now, it’s a lot harder than it looks. I haven’t been able to play in a couple weeks and I’m anxious to get my work caught up so I can play again.
Rain
Rain, Rain go away, come again some other day! I hate storms. For some reason they make me extremely nervous.
Movies
Saw Nacho Libre and Over the Hedge. Absolutely funny! Both were great movies.
Occasionally on here I’ve posted pictures of Magnum, my almost 2 year old Chocolate Cockapoo. If you’ve seen Over the Hedge, and remember the dog in the backyard that chased the animals, then you’ve seen Magnum. Chris and I cracked up when we saw that because I truly believe that if Magnum could talk, that is what he would be like. PLAY PLAY PLAY PLAY PLAY....LOL Nacho was just funny, and surprisingly pretty clean. Of course, you have to like stupid funny movies or you’ll hate it.
Colds
YUCK! Been trying to get over this sinus infection the last week and a half. It’s no fun and I need to be well for the next few coming months. Got lots going on.
Work
Been really busy with work. Getting sick doesn’t help. I’m so far behind. Am currently working on designing The Dunaways (http://dunawaymusic.com), The Pathfinders (http://thepathfinders.com), and Romans Road Trio (http://romansroadtrio.com). The latter two will be up and running hopefully within the next couple weeks. We’re excited about where God is taking our business...can’t wait to see what else is in store. We are preparing for NQC. We are going to have a great showcase this year. I’ll give you more info closer to the date.
SHS
Steve Hurst School of Music. Week after next. Gonna be great. I look forward to this. My older brother Aaron, Dad, and I are teaching vocal lessons. We get to meet new people and see some talented people get real and serious about their craft. It’s very exciting.
GMFF
Gospel Music Fan Festival is only a few more weeks away. We have a great line-up every night. It’s going to be great! For more information you can visit the GMFF website (http://gospelmusicfanfestival.com).
Goodnight
Time to go to bed. Have a lot of work to get finished tomorrow before the Lord’s Day. Be blessed and stay safe!
AM OUT!
To Love Online Or Not
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Disclaimer: the only reason this topic is discussed so much is because I live online, I’m single, and everyone around seems to bring it up. So, if I have to hear about it, you have to hear about it. If you don’t wanna hear about it, read someone else’s blog. LOL
So, the last couple weeks have been extremely busy, but I’m starting to work out a routine that I believe is going to work out just fine for me. It actually gives me a couple days off in the week like normal people and now I’m slightly weirded out because I don’t know what to do with myself.
So, I went to Kym’s....Leah accompanied me. We had a blast, ate lots of food, watched a couple of 80’s movies like Can’t Buy Me Love and Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. You know, classics! It was just the girls, so we talked about normal “girl” things. The next morning, Mom Brown came up to the house and we all had donuts and discussed “finding the right man”. LOL
Now, for those of you who have been married for quite some time and don’t quite remember the single days, let me inform you of a little bit of what we go through today. Today, there are so many books, know-it-alls, friends, family, etc who surround you constantly telling you that you need to get married. Then there are books, know-it-alls, friends, family, etc who tell you WHY you need to get married and WHY you AREN’T married. Of course, the closer you get to 30, and after you’ve done reached 30 (or more) it seems as though there’s a need to HURRY! Maybe it’s because we are in such a fast paced world, or those special books, know-it-alls, friends, family, etc just want us to be happy like they are. I tend to believe that God created us to have the mentality that it takes two, Two By Two! Between the friends and family setting you up, Self-Help books, Preachers, Teachers, Co-Workers, and everyone else who decides to meddle in your life, there’s no break from the “you need to get married” syndrome.
That being said, a topic I’ve discussed here on my blog several times has come up a couple times in the past month. That topic being INTERNET DATING. I try to do the logical thing, pros and cons. On one hand, IF I were looking at this point in time, there are NO available single guys in this area that are worth the hassle. Most aren’t christians...and the one’s that are do not show any interest in you. In my neck of Nashville, there are TWO single guys. One of which is my brother - Ick! The other is so new, all the single vipers have already turned him into their prey. LOL Literally!
On another hand, I dunno if I wanna PAY some internet service to “hook me up”. I just can’t get that thought process out. I know that if God wants two people together, He will use whatever means available. I just can’t get it out of my mind that you have to PAY to find a potential mate. It just seems like you’re going to the mall and looking for the latest model of MAN.
On one hand, it’s kind of exhilirating! Exciting. Meeting new people...the suspense of not knowing who is out there looking at your profile. But then, there is also the disappointment of not getting any replies, or nobody viewing your profile. The scary people that may be on there.
I just don’t know what my opinion is on this whole online-match-making-thing. Yet another thing to add to my list of things I hate about dating. Too many decisions to be made for something that’s supposed to be so much fun. I do not find it fun but rather a pain in my side. It would’ve been less stressful and easier for me if God would just send a boy with a sign that says “I’m your future husband”. THAT’s my ideal date! LOL
After reading all my comments on my last blog, I supposed I’ll have to get more serious from now on if I want comments! I’m so glad that I’m not alone in my struggles in this life, that others go through the same thing. There is comfort in that.
Right now I’m going to go. Emma is on and it’s such a great movie!
AM OUT!
Never Pushed Past Your Limit
Saturday, May 20, 2006
So, I’m sure I’m no different than anyone else. I know that everyone else goes through times in their lives where they question God. They wonder what their full purpose in life is. Why did you create me here God? Why in this situation, why with this family, why with these friends, why did you choose for me to walk this path? Not that there’s anything wrong with the path, just that there are so many questions unanswered. Am I doing what I need to be doing, if not, what do I need to be doing? Am I going down the right path? Am I saying the things that need to be said? Do I need to turn left, do I need to turn right?
There are days in our lives where we feel so alone, traveling down a road that is dark with little to no light. You can’t see your surroundings and you don’t know what might be coming up ahead. Everything is great when you know the path God has called you on. Sometimes you know the path you’re on is where God has called you, but for some reason, there’s a mile or two that doesn’t look as familiar as what you’ve seen previously. If we’re not careful, we’ll allow fear to grab hold of us and blind us to the light that truly surrounds us. This fear can be disguised as many things...finances, marital problems, fights with friends, lack of confidence, etc.
When times get this way, I just want to crawl in my bed and cry. I want to sleep all my cares away. But I know that’s not the solution. So, I cry out to God. I don’t hear anything back. Why doesn’t he answer our call when we cry out the first time? Maybe it’s much like my best friend, Kym and her baby, Crosslan. Crosslan is learning to crawl, and pick himself up off the floor. Pretty soon he’ll be walking. But occasionally, he looses his grip of the couch or table or whatever he’s using to hold himself up, and he’ll fall. More scared than hurt, he cries. Instead of Kym running to hold him in her arms, sometimes she just speaks to him in a calm voice and says “Crosslan, you’re a big boy. It’s ok, you aren’t hurt. Get back up” He can’t hear her though for all the crying. She has to repeat herself a couple times. Finally he hears her and stops crying and works at getting back up. Sound familiar?
In our own way, we get so wrapped up in our fear that we cry before we’re hurt. We cry so loud, waiting for God to answer. We can’t hear him for all our crying. Eventually, we hear Him. Maybe not audibly. Sometimes it’s in the Word, and other times it’s in a friend’s calm assurance, or a song on the radio. What a relief to finally hear His voice. If we can only learn to stop crying so loud and just listen.
He says, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
I like the way The Message translates it: “No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he’ll never let you be pushed past your limit; he’ll always be there to help you come through it.”
I read that last night and found it quite encouraging. After many days of searching and wondering where God was, which cloud was He behind; I found Him.
The funny thing...Last night, I got in my car driving home from the grocery store. I heard a song on the radio. I knew I’d heard it before. It wasn’t until just not that I realized where. When I taught at Steve Hurst School, a young boy came in singing this song. I knever even realized what the lyrics meant until I heard it on the radio last night. He may never know the doors opened by singing that song.
I went to the store again this afternoon, and as soon as I turned on my car, this song came on, as if in sync with my whole world! It’s performed by Barlow Girl. Below are the lyrics, I dunno, maybe it will hit you like it hit me:
I waited for you today
But you didn’t show
No no.
I needed you today
So where did you go?
You told me to call
Said you’d be there
And though I haven’t seen you
Are you still there?
Chorus
I cried out with no reply
And I can’t feel you by my side
So I’ll hold tight to what I know
You’re here and I’m never alone
And though I cannot see you
And I can’t explain why
Such a deep reassurance
You’ve placed in my life.
We cannot separate
‘Cause you’re part of me.
And though you’re invisible
I’ll trust the unseen.
AM OUT!
PS...New Sunday Edition Pics can’t be posted till we got a few shots picked out for our new CD Cover. Sorry, Rev! They turned out pretty cool though, thanks to our friend Chris Wooten!
Say Cheese
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Tomorrow (or later today - depending on how you wanna look at it) we are going to be taking photos for our new project. We are too excited. Everything seems to be coming together nicely. We have 2 more songs left to lay down, and then some choir background stuff on another song. We hope to get in within the next week to finish up some of it.
It’s gonna be great, I can’t wait for it to come out. I know that you all are going to be able to notice the hard work all of us (group, producers, etc) have put into this.
I’m off to get some beauty sleep...Lord knows I’m gonna need it for tomorrow!!
AM OUT!
Good Times
Monday, May 01, 2006
This weekend was a blast. Mostly yesterday. I got to spend a bit of time with my bestest friend in the whole world. She was extraordinarily goofy, which just reminded me of the first time I met her.
Ten years ago this year...Steve Hurst is responsible. We both attended his Vocal School. I was told by Steve that he didn’t have a roomate for me, so I would most likely be by myself. He said, "Unless I know you’ll be best of friends, I won’t send anyone to your room". Ha! LOL While putting my clothes away, getting ready for the two week stay, I hear a knock on the door. I opened the door, thinking it was going to be a roomie across the hall, but NO. There she stood! First thing she says, "HI!! My name is Kym...Steve said we were going to be best friends!"
OMG...I was so scared! LOL She was way too chipper for me. As she started unpacking, we got to talking and found out we had a LOT in common. After that day, we were inseperable. I don’t know how Steve knew that I needed her in my life, but I’m glad he sent her my way. She keeps me laughing at myself and definitely makes sure I stay humble. LOL Our second year attending the school together was as if we had never been apart. We laughed and cut up. I’m not sure we really learned anything! LOL
Good times were had at Steve’s school. Kym and I almost got struck my lightening. I believe it hit right across the alley from where we were. Stupid us...we were running across the campus barefoot and holding coke cans in our hands. It was totally like cartoon...when the lightening hit, we both stopped, looked at each other, screamed, and then ran as fast as we could!! ROFLOL
Then of course who could forget John Tidwell and Ben Scroggs giving all of us the Hat Gospel. Staying up till 3:00 am laughing hysterically. Singing in the stairwells. Meeting forever friends. Crushing on boys...Kym even married her crush. My biggest crush was "Clark". His real name was Isaac, but I thought he looked like Clark Kent, so that’s what I called him.
It’s amazing to see what God has done in 10 years. There are a few people who attended the school back then who are now with major groups. To name a few, Paul Smith and Chris Weaver of Crossway, Jason Waldroup of Greater Vision, Josh Garner of Florida Boys, Lauren Talley, and I’m sure there’s more that my brain can’t think of. See if you can guess who the one’s pictured below are!!
I gotta get to bed. Ya’ll enjoy the old pics...and if you see these people, don’t let them know I have them posted on here! LOL
Pic 1 & 2: Kym the first year I met her
Pic 1: Kym being goofy Pic 2: Me and Kym
Kym and “Clark Kent”!
AM OUT!!
I'm here
Saturday, April 22, 2006
I know, I know, it’s been forever.
Work, work, work. That seems like my life’s story. I’m just now starting to feel like I’m getting back to normal. My doctor told me to start walking, because I will be getting my appetite back. So, I’ve been walking. The first day was tiring, but it’s gotten better each day. I’m healing quite nicely and extremely glad I can eat what I want without pain!! I’m so thankful that the Lord provided what I needed to get it done.
Kym’s brother, Doug, passed away a week ago this past Thursday at the very young age of 35. It was indeed sad, but after talking to Kym today and hearing about the funeral service, God really has all control, and He is faithful to see what we cannot. Though we are sad to see him go, we know that he is with Jesus and Butch (Kym’s daddy). Doug Brown sang for quite some time with Cross Road out of California. He was an amazing vocalist and will be missed greatly. I didn’t see him much, but when I spoke to him either through email or in person, he was very encouraging to me. Please say a prayer for the family, as I know the next few months may not be easy.
I’m updating a few sites, and working on a couple of new ones. I’ve been re-designing Vertical Praise’s website. Not sure if I showed it to you all, but here it is: http://verticalpraise.com. It’s still under construction, missing a few items, but just about done.
Chris and I have decided we are taking a vacation to Florida in June. We are staying with a college friend of his for a few days, then hopefully head up to visit our brother and sister-n-law. Can’t wait! We are probably going to take a day or two and visit Disney World, since one of our friends attending with us has never been! It’s gonna be a blast!
Chris had a birthday, seems like we’ve celebrated it for about 2 weeks. LOL He got like 4 cakes and all kinds of gifts. People love him for some reason! LOL We took a group to the Mellow Mushroom for some pizza and fun on the Party Bus. Then headed to the movies to watch Ice Age 2: The Meltdown. THAT movie is hillarious. I laughed so hard. It was fun!
Well, I’m heading to bed, it’s rather late (or early). Thought I’d let you all know that I’m still kickin...just been busy!
AM OUT!!
