For a minute
I would love to rewind life
Just so I could hear your voice
To have one last conversation with my dad
Or to hear someone call you Bubba
Oh to hear you sing to me- Just a Swinging- how you changed the words to make the song about me,
Or for you to tell me that the right guy is out there for me,
Or to hear YOU say your proud of me
Or to hear YOU tell me that YOU loved me!
But instead I visited your grave
It was silent, peaceful, with the wind blowing . I know you are not here that you are in heaven.
Today is one of those hard days I just
Miss you, but I'm so thankful that during the hard days I have such an Awesome family to love me through it.
Remember to love to the fullest,
Jenn

What can happen in a YEAR??

A year ago today I left Dallas after teaching and headed to MD Anderson.  OF course it took me forever to get there.  My aunt Nan had a flare up and had to have an emergency surgery-while her husband Robert was in the hospital in Lufkin.  Mom had to go back to Lufkin and my parents trusted me to help with my Aunt with listening dilegently to the doctors. As I valeted my car because it was late, of course I open the back of my car and my bag falls out with some other items.  The sweet man was trying to help me, but of course all I could do was laugh!  

I ventured up to Aunt Nans room... It was a little bit of a hike to get to it.  We get settled in and the all night fun begins.  Aunt Nan is in so much pain she cannot get comfortable or shes up every few minutes going to bathroom.  Of course when things calm down the nurses come in to check her out. 

Night 1= maybe an hour and half of sleep

Night 2 = 2 to 3 hours

Night 3= all a blur.......

I remember every time the doctors came in I would get out my notes and start adding more.  I have to say the doctors were amazing!  They helped Aunt Nan and after this surgery she was still very weak but this helped her in the road to recovery.

Finally, on Saturday we were able to come back to Lufkin.  We put Aunt Nan in the back seat propped her up and headed home.  It was a very rough drive in, because the roads were bumpy.  Finally, Aunt Nan was able to fall asleep and we made it to Lufkin in a great time.

Last Thanksgiving she could not attend Thanksgiving lunch because she was still recovering and very weak.  She was allowed the week off of chemo, then it started it back again-- 

During Christmas break we headed back and forth to treatments or to visit the doctor.

Literally its all a blur- 

but 3 surgeries later, chemo complete

She is still happy, beautiful, and Praising the Lord

and has recovered from this cancer

Counting our Blessings,

Jenn

Flashbacks
While being at home I've been having flashbacks that I thought I would share with you:

* Denman Ave Baptist Church- at age 7 I sang my first solo in front of the whole congregation " I am promise"
On Sunday I got to hear my former youth pastor preach Bro Kevin Roy. He still preaches with passion, love, and application that I can apply to my life. His sermon reminded me of all the lessons he has instilled in my life. As an adult he still pours into my life.

** Crud wars-- city friends you have never experienced this... You take all kinds of ingredients rotten eggs, milk, ketchup and throw on ppl..(we did this in youth and I loved every minute of it.

***Looking back on my younger days of staying up super late at friends houses for their parents to take us tp(wrapping houses)

Hitting up Sonic for a coke then Driving up and down Timberland thru the Tom Thumb parking lot on a Sat night!!

****SFA wow has my college changed.. They have drive thrus and restaurants now of everything you can imagine.. We had nadda back in the day!!



*****On hwy 94 the popular gas station to go to was Joc Stop(this is right down the street from my house) it's been closed for years. Recently it has reopened w a different name. Why did I love Joc Stop so much bc they had the best ices in town!

*****More to Come
Jenn

One day

One day you will understand my perfect plan! One day you will see why I closed the door to that prayer. One day you will be thankful and praise me even more when I reveal my plan to you. Until then don't give up, stay focused, do not get discouraged, and continue to run after me--I've got you in the palm of my hand! This is a word the Lord gave me as I sat on the porch relaxing and enjoying all the animal sounds as I sit in a rocking chair in East Texas!

Oh to a New School Year

 

 

It's Time Again,

For another school year to begin!

Oh how I can't wait to meet,

but not smell their feet

of my Precious 22 new students.

I wonder what each day will hold,

 and what they will teach me!

I pray that I will mold, 

into a life long learner!

 

I can not wait to hug,

and have discussion on our rug!

I wonder if I will get a teacher's mug,

or if my heart will get a tug.

 

Bring on teaching year 11

May it be the most memorable one yet!

 

As you can see I'm super excited to start another year!

Im ready to meet all of my little darlings...

 

Yes, I wrote this poem tonight!!

Blessings,

Jenn

 

 

 A Story that 

has Grabbed my Heart

I heard about the book Kisses from Katie written by Katie Davis.

Her story and faith in the Lord is truly inspiring.  

She has made me stop and think!

Her life is truly a reflection of Christ.

She is a young lady who has truly learned what the word 

Surrender to the Lord means.

Honestly, I could not put this book down, each story she wrote touched my heart.

She truly has a heart of love.

It has honestly made me think of my heart and Ive asked myself

Do I truly love with all my heart?

Isn't that a loaded question?

This book has really made me stop to think about my life! 

It has made me reevaluate different areas in my own life.

I am still processing it!

If you have not read it, you should read it!  

 

 Check out the her blog by using the link below:

http://kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com/

or you can order the book off of Amazon!

Blessings,

Jenn 

A New Week

Brings a Fresh Glance

Lately  I have changed things up in my life just a bit. 

 First of all, every Sunday morning during my prayer time I have started making a few goals for the week.  

I write them on a card and place them on my night stand so every day I am reminded of what I am focusing on for the week.  

I have learned that when I get in bed and turn my tv on, that if I glance at my list and see my goals in front of me- I will turn it off and start working on my goals.

This is a great way to hold myself accountable of what I am really trying to focus on during this period of singleness in my life.

Each week I evaluate the  goals, pray through them, and I might change it up.  

I just let the Lord lead me to what I should be doing each week.

I really want my life to glorify him..

Also it has helped me refocus where I am spending my time and energy!

Blessings,

Jenn Smith

A Friendship 

sparked at a Wedding

Over a Year ago, I went to Lufkin for a wedding!  

I know surprise, surprise...

Ive always heard you never know you might meet your prince at a wedding...

Of course I laughed.

But I never dreamed walking into this wedding

 I would meet a precious college student who lived in Dallas-

 and here we are a Year later doing life together.

Kate has been such a blessing to me, 

I feel like she is like a little sister

as we had coffee this morning I left thanking God for this beautiful sister in Christ, 

that I would have never met if it had not been at this wedding.

God reminded me that he puts people in our life at the Perfect time,

 whether it be for the rest of our lives or a season. 

God is faithful!

And you never know who or when God will put a precious friend in your life to do life with!

Blessings and Love,

Jenn

I Want....

How many times in life do we say I want it..

Or if I was Rich I would want that...

Or since I was a little girl I have dreamed about wanting to be married 

and then wanting to have children.

Or wanting to be a stay at home mom one day....

Or wanting to drive my dream car

etc, etc, etc

but Ive learned that sometimes I have missed the bigger picture....

Here are questions that the Lord has put on my heart:

What does God want for me??

What does God want me to be doing during this season of singleness?

Where does God want me serving?

Who does God want me pouring into?

What seed am I planting to make a difference while I am here on earth?

Who am I impacting?

What does God want me to be reading?

Where does God want my time to be best spent?

Here's what the Lord has been teaching me. 

My eyes and focus have to be  constantly on the Lord.

Sometimes we miss out on some of God's greatest blessings 

because we get caught up in the wants of life.

The wants are not a bad thing but think about 

Changing our Thoughts to being more about what the Lords wants are for our lives.

Which brings me back to 

Matthew 

 6:33

³ But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Life is short

so lets make the Wants that God has for us count.

Kicking off another Joyful week,

Jenn  

Proverbs 31

and 

Big Mama

If you know me, their is only ONE Big Mama in my life.  

She is my Pop's mom. 

 To start with, when I was very young after my parents had married she was introducing me to some one.  The lady looked at her and said, "Oh so this is your step grand-daughter." 

 Big Mama looked at her and said we don't have step in our family.

Big Mama puts her family first.

All I have ever known from Big Mama is LOVE.

She loves the Lord!

She prays for us(all her kids, grandkids, and great grandkids daily)

This weekend I was reminded several things about Big Mama. 

She is in her upper 80's and will not let much slow her down.

When my sweet cousins and I all got to Big Mama's on Friday night 

the rooms were filled with lots of laughter and talking.

Sometimes Big Mama would listen or chime in to the conversation 

but she just could not stop smiling.

The slumber party went on and sweet Big Mama had made snacks for us!

As we were winding down around 1:30 am Kelli thought 

we should run into Big Mama's room and scare Kristen.

Well of Course, Big Mama was still awake- Mission abort.

Instead we laid in Big Mama's bed and just talked some more.

She truly was the last one to go to sleep,

and the first one awake.

I woke up to the smell of country cooking!

She cooked us a delicious breakfast.

Again Big Mama was being the servant and taking care of the little things.

I walked into the laundry room to see Big Mama ironing one of the girls dresses.

Then Big Mama and I went to Granny's funeral.

Big Mama chose not to take her cane in 

but instead to hold my hand to keep her balance.

I am amazed at how she never complains about getting old!

She truly is one of a kind.

She is leaving a legacy behind through her children.

Big Mama has taught me a lot of lessons in life- especially cooking in the kitchen.

The loves of her life went to be with the Lord before I ever came into her life, she has taught me what true Contentment looks like!

 

Proverbs 31:10-31

The Woman Who Fears the Lord

10 4 uAn excellent wife who can find?

She is far more precious than vjewels.

11 The heart of her husband trusts in her,

and he will have no lack of gain.

12 She does him good, and not harm,

all the days of her life.

13 She wseeks wool and flax,

and works with willing hands.

14 She is like the ships of the merchant;

she brings her food from afar.

15 She xrises while it is yet night

and yprovides food for her household

and portions for her maidens.

16 She considers a field and buys it;

with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.

17 She zdresses herself5 with strength

and makes her arms strong.

18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable.

Her lamp does not go out at night.

19 She puts her hands to the distaff,

and her hands hold the spindle.

20 She aopens her hand to bthe poor

and reaches out her hands to bthe needy.

21 She is not afraid of snow for her household,

for all her household are clothed in cscarlet.6

22 She makes dbed coverings for herself;

her clothing is efine linen and fpurple.

23 Her husband is known in gthe gates

when he sits among the elders of the land.

24 She makes hlinen garments and sells them;

she delivers sashes to the merchant.

25 iStrength and dignity are her clothing,

and she laughs at the time to come.

26 She opens her mouth with wisdom,

and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.

27 She looks well to the ways of her household

and does not eat the bread of idleness.

28 Her children rise up and call her blessed;

her husband also, and he praises her:

29 “Many jwomen have done kexcellently,

but you surpass them all.”

30 lCharm is deceitful, and beauty is vain,

but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

31 Give her of the fruit of her hands,

and let her works praise her in the gates.

Who's your Proverbs 31 inspiration?

Have you told them?

Life is short take time to tell people how much they mean to you!

Blessings and Love,

Jenn

Reality Hit

Their are 3 girls in my life that are my cousins-- No actually they are my sisters.  God knew that these girls would become my little sisters.  On Friday night life changed very quickly, as their precious Granny had a heart attack and died during surgery.

My heart hurts for my little sisters as they have never dealt with losing a loved one!  

I am so thankful for Granny being at Kristen's wedding in May- the pictures are priceless, and Granny looked beautiful and was just beaming of happiness.

Then my heart hurts for Courtney as she is getting married in December.  But how sweet that Granny will be watching from Heaven.  This week will be a hard one their family, please be praying for them, especially traveling safety as they will be coming in from Bama.

Again, I have been reminded of how short life is and you never know how quickly it can change!

I'm reminded to:

•  live a life that builds a legacy for others to follow
• be bold and share Christ with others more
• take the time to tell my family and friends how blessed I am by having them in my life
• not to take life for granted
• to love more

Courtney(Coco), Kristen, and Kelli- I love yall so much and I know this week will be very hard.  I can not wait for yall to get to Texas so I can hug, love, and cry with y'all.

I will get back to recapping about Jamaica very soon-my video would not load.

Blessings and Love

Jenn

 

Jamaica Recap

Take 2

Sunday Best

Last Sunday morning we went to church at Hillview Baptist Church.  It sits on top of a hill, I didnt know if our bus would make it up the hill. They have Sunday School in different parts of their sanctuary (all ladies were teaching). The Choir had white blouses with blue flowered print-they looked so pretty.  Again there was no AC, just opened windows for the breeze to come in.  Kathi prepared us though by giving us all little fans to take into church. 

I looked up to notice that there speakers and sound system were caged up so no one would steal it. Doesnt that just make you sad??

The youth sat in the balcony and were so well behaved.  I loved seeing all of the women in their different hats.  We got to be apart of their Baby dedication service which was precious to see baby Javel with all of his parents and family standing around him.

We were sitting on the front left on the 2nd-4th pews.  In front of us sat two boys who were just precious.  In fact Kathi pointed out that one of them kept looking at me.  Well this little boys name was David.  He was very sweet, well mannered, and sitting with his friend. I never saw his parents.  

 We began to read a Psalms which I learned very quickly that my version of the bible they were reading from was very different(King James- I had ESV).  He kept turning around looking at me- like saying why arent you reading from your bible?  He did not have a bible to read from.

I picked up my small bible that has a cross on the front of it- and I felt a nudge to ask David if he would like to see it.  His eyes lit up and he just sat there with his friends looking at this little bible. David told me he had never seen a bible this little.  Also, he saw were I had written in my bible and I told him that I didnt want to forget what I had learned from that scripture.

I will never forget little David and I hope that a seed was planted for him to really cherish and love God's Word. 

Blessings and Love,

Jenn

Jamaica Recap

Take 1- Our Team

First of all, thank you for all of your prayers, emails, texts, and phone calls I can not even begin to express to you how much it has meant to me.  My brain is still processing the week, so I thought I would break down the week into different takes...(Basically more to come)

Back in November our team was formed, with monthly meetings to prepare for the trip.  Our team consisted of 13 women!  Julie Hill invited me to be apart of this group and join her teaching for Upper Reading, little did I know my life would be changed.  Julie is always a breath of fresh air to me, and like a mother to me. I love hearing Julie pray because she prays with such a passion and with amazing faith.  She is a complete JOY(we also work together at school).

I can not even begin to tell you how much I loves my teammates (my precious sisters in Christ).  I got to know them in a deeper level as we spent the last week together- I was beyond blessed to hear their stories, hearts, and most of all their LOVE for Christ.  We had 13 WOMEN who truly had a blast together.

Each team member was given a travel buddy--Well God knew Becky Walsh was the perfect fit. Little did I know we would have so many things in common and have dealt with some of the same life experiences.  We talked so much through out the week, and she totally inspired me with her faith and obedience in Christ.  Her heart is so precious and I'm beyond blessed to have her in my life now that we are back in the US...

Through out our week long adventure, our team bonded, laughed together, sweated together, spent alot of time together, cried together, but most importantly we saw GOD at WORK.  We saw First Hand- Gods hands were all over our trip!!  We saw the Lord use us for his GOOD to bless the Jamaican teachers.  We saw the Lord protect our bodies as it was VERY HOT and HUMID there.

Im so thankful for the friendships that were made on this trip.

The bonds that were formed and the experiences we made as a GROUP these memories will last a LIFE TIME.  

Of Course, I had to teach them a few songs during our trip.... 

(Cause you can have whatever you like..)

Blessings and Love,

Jenn

In Awe

I have not left for Jamaica but I sit here just in AWE of GOD.  

He put this desire to go, love, and share with others the knowledge he has given me to teach. 

I'm so excited that this trip that fell into my lap over 9 months ago is here.

Our team had our packing party on Wednesday and we are getting to take 40 bags of luggage not full of our clothes- but supplies for the teachers and kids. 

 I can not wait for the teachers to see the books we are bringing them.

God has answered every prayer our team has laid before him.

Question of Today

How am  I?
Im ready to be in Jamaica. 

My bag is packed(clothes for a week are in a carry on bag)!

I can not wait to meet the children and teachers.

My prayer is that GOD would just use me, that I would take every opportunity to love

 and to bring light to Jamaica!

My prayer for the past few weeks has God let me get out of your way, and use me to bring YOU all the GLORY!

The trip has not even started and I am so overwhelmed with God's Goodness and Blessings

(Yes, tears are falling as I type them)

I truly do not know what God has in store for me in Jamaica, but I can not wait.

I PRAISE God in ADVANCE for what he is Going to do in this trip, through this trip, and after this trip!

On a side note, I can not even begin to say THANK YOU for all of you who are praying, encouraging, and supporting me in this trip.  I am so thankful for my parents who have supported me in this trip and for their PRAYERS--

The Lord is the ONE who Goes Ahead of YOU,

He will be with YOU; 

He will not fail you or forsake YOU. 

Do not fear or be dismayed.

Deut 31:8

Blessings,

Jenn

Preparing for Jamaica

I can not tell you how excited I am about going on this trip!  But to be honest my heart is heavy for the children in the orphanges.  We will be going to two different orphanges( a private and a public).  In Jamaica if a child is born with special needs they go drop this precious child off at the public orphange.  They believe they have been cursed and dont want anything to do with this child.  Every day I have prayed that the Lord would just prepare my heart for this journey.  If you know me you know that I would love to bring all of these precious children home with me.  I am so ready to meet these precious children and just love on them. 

I am super excited to meet the teachers of Jamaica that we will be working with, please be in prayer as we do our final preparations this week.  I truly can not wait to go. My carry-on is packed and we have our packing party on Wednesday!!  

Again, I thank God for dropping this trip in my lap, it is something I have always dreamed of going out of the states to teach teachers how to teach!  

Believing, Expecting, and Trusting,

Jenn

The Heart

 A heart to love,

A Pure heart,

A heart of gold, 

A heart that loves my family and friends,

A Heart to reach out and to pour love over someone else,

A heart that wants to fix someone elses heart ache,

A heart that continues to go back for more after being hurt,

A heart that doesn't want to be rejected,

A heart that wants to do the right thing,

A heart that breaks when I mess up,

A heart that truly doesn't understand certain circumstances in Life,

A heart that continues to Trust God,

A heart that loves God 

A heart that is God Centered 

Blessings,

Jenn

You're Part of the Family

Over the past year my mom has gotten to meet and know cousins that have truly impacted our lives.  Every time I come home now I have to go see them.  As soon as I walk in the door I am greeted with hugs, kisses on the cheek, and embraced with an out pouring love. They are just such examples of what it will look like when we all get to Heaven. We are PART of an AMAZING Family of God but sometimes we get so caught up in the world that we miss out on incredible brothers and sisters in Christ. 

Every time I leave my cousins now, I leave wanting to be more like them-encouraging and loving every one I come in contact. Just being the real deal and authenic is what life if all about.  May we continue to embrace those who are put in our lives with unconditional love.  We never know the people that we may come in contact with that are broken and need a smile. 

Thankful and Blessed to be apart of an 

AMAZING FAMILY,

Jenn

A Prayer Answered
After my parents divorce my dad dated or remarried lots of different ladies. Yes, I met them all and being so young I got very attached to them.
Two very special ladies touched my life and I have never forgotten them.
One I talk to often when I come home the other one I haven't seen in years. Recently my aunt Shirley told me I should call her and I was like no that's Awkard. Well tonight God blessed me with a phone call from my mom. She called me from a summer wide bible study with different women from the community. A sweet lady came up to my mom and asked her if she was married to my dad. Then she preceded to tell my mom how much she loved and adored me( the feeling was mutual!!) After their conversation mom called and told me to come up there. I listened to Beth Moore simulcast, then walked up to Pam and reintroduced myself. Her first words were you look just like your daddy! These words melted my heart! I have been blessed to have characteristics of both parents and over the years I've become more like my Pop.

Since my dad has been dead for 12 years I don't think ppl remember him. She even said I can see not only his looks but his personality. Then Pam and I just got to chat! I was able to thank her for loving me. Again God answered a prayer of wanting to reconnect with Pam.

Keep praying and believing!
God does answer our PrAyers!
Jenn

The Ride of Life

Last night I opened my bible to John 14 and at the top of the page I had written the word Urgency.  The urgency is so heavy on my heart to tell those who do not know the Lord.  I get so scared sometimes about sharing my Faith like Im going to mess it up.  When the Lord keeps whispering to my heart Ive got you, just step back and let me lead you. Sometimes I take a step back when I mess up or sin- I am human and God is molding me to be more like Him.  

2 Timothy 3:16  All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, ¹⁷ that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

 I feel like God is totally rocking my World- My Focus is on the Lord like never before. Im desiring like never before to be like him and to take my Eyes off of the things I want for me- and instead  to fall more in Love with the Lord.  With everything going on in the World I am reminded this World is not my Home and I want to impact the Kingdom.

God is at Work and Im truly excited to see what he has in store for me, even though I am scared that I may not be good at whatever he calls me to do- Im ready because he will work through me.  Trusting in the Lord like never before.. 

Stay Tuned for more updates...

Jenn

Questions,
Questions,
And Questions

Tonight, I'm writing to all my Single friends! Over the past few weeks I've ran into former co-workers, high school friends, and etc to hear the lovely ques single girls face:
• What's a beautiful girl like you not dating anyone or married??
• Is anyone asking you out?
• Are you giving the guy a chance?
• And on and on.....
Sweet Friends if you are frustrated by these questions or do not understand Gods plan= remember his timing his PERFECT. While we are in the season of singleness keep asking God to show you how to glorify him through this time in your life. Recently I've learned that God wants my eyes on him even when my friends are dating, getting married, or having babies. I don't want to wake up in 10 years wishing I had made the most out of my singleness so the next time someone asks you one of those lovely questions- just smile and remember you are on a journey to bring your Father in Heaven glory!

Food Trucks at V park in Addison

Tonight we went to V park in Addison to try the food trucks. It was delicious and a great evening to spend with friends! Each food truck was reasonably priced. Of course they had eatcoolhaus.com which is a cookie sandwich(you choose which kind of cookie and ice cream you want)
Just another first experience... Stay tuned for more adventures!!
Summer fun,
Jenn

Just slow down

This past month I've been trying to slow down and have been reflecting on how time flies. Also I've been thinking about one of my best friends from college- Jeff Walker number 33.Since high school I've always loved sports but until I met this friend I loved the Astros. He was from Mansfield so once I moved to Dallas he insisted we go to Rangers games, explored Ft Worth, and went on lots of outings. Jeff was one of a kind, quiet, loved the Lord, loved hanging with his family and friends, he kept me in check especially when I had a crazy idea- he was great about keeping me in reality. Jeff was living life and following his dreams until Feb 2007 when he was killed in a drunk driving accident. Just in an instant his life was over. I am thankful for the many lessons this friend taught me and how important it is to live each day to the fullest because we do not know the plan God has for us. Recently I've realized the importance of spending more time with family and friends. I hope that my life will impact as many as Jeff Walkers life did..

What If???

Have you ever thought about something that happened in your life?  Maybe what would you have done differently?  Or what if someone in your life had not come into your life when they did?

Yesterday, I was hit with the thought of what if Chris and Becky Roberts had not invested in my life, when they did!  I will never forget the weekend that my dad died- I was beyond devestated. At this point Chris and Becky had just moved back to Lufkin with two small children.  They saw a need to truly love on me and take me under their wings by asking me to be their babysitter for the summer.   In this time in my life I was truly depressed but waking up every morning that summer was a joy because I got to hang out and love on the most precious 2 little loves of my life.The heartache and the sting of my dads death was still there but having these two little angels in my life took my mind off of things.

Then they moved to Dallas but Becky would always tell me move to Dallas, move to Dallas... and then they were so serious about it that I lived with them for a bit...  I will never forget those days!  

Through their friendship- I have gained a big sis (Becky) and Chris can tell me stories about my dad!  Chris and Becky have given me lots of wisdom about life and have just loved me!  Also, not only have I gotten to babysit for Haley and Z-man-they have become like siblings.  

Yesterday I was able to be apart of all of Haley's graduation activities.  I could not be more proud of her. 

Which makes me go back to the beginning of this blog.  

What if the Roberts had not taken the time to invest in me?  Where would I be?  Would I have ever moved to Dallas?

My eyes were opened to you never know why God places people in your life at just the right time.  It is such a sweet reminder that we are to be investing in others lives to impact eternity. 

Thank you God for allowing them to love on me when I was at a very low point.  Thank you Lord that they did not give up on me! 

Forever Grateful,

Jenn

 

The Journey Continues

I can not believe this school year is coming to an end.  It's wrapping up with new summer adventures-ahead. I sit here and evaluate all that God is doing in my life.  This school year I have truly developed a daily routine of starting my day in the Word, spending time meditating and listening to the Lord.  Tonight, I was reminded of how God is constantly shapping me to be more like Him.  I am learning to lean on him even more,  to let the scripture truly take over in my heart and to be the Woman God has called me to me.  Have I mastered it yet??  No, not at all.  I am a work in Progress.

But the Lord keeps reminding me that his plan for me-is not what I might have planned out- that HIS PLAN is far better than what I could have ever imagined.  But I have to be aware and more cautious of the distractions that will come in the road to get me off course.  I am so thankful for the opportunities and growing pains the Lord has put in my path.  

May we never stop Growing more in love with the Lord.

May we never get content were we are at that we do not share with others what the Lord is doing in our lives.

May we never loose our Focus of what life is truly about-- NOT US- But to Glorify the Lord.

For the next 2 days I will be loving on 22 precious little ones, some are moving to other schools and I may never see them again. But my prayer is that will have been impacted by this teacher and that I will continue to be touched by their lives as well!

Living and Loving,

Jenn

You are

You are...
You are loved
You are beautiful
You are wonderfully made
You are a catch
You are worth to be pursued
You are kind
You are an encourager
You are my child that I love
You will bring a smile to my face by glorifying me...

I love the constant reminders that the Lord gives us!
Blessings
Jenn

Nope I don't

Nope I don't 

Nope I don't understand

Nope I didn't see that one coming

Nope I didn't want the heartache that I caused

Nope I don't want to be in Control

But I did feel your Presence

But I saw a glimpse of how you have had your hand all over me

But I will be obedient to what you have called me to be

But I will put all my trust in YOU 

But I have learned my FAITH has increased

But I know now to Ask why because 

YOU'VE Got My Best at heart

But I will Believe, Expect, and Trust

But I will Glorify You thru the Journey of this life!

BAMA BOUND

           Can you hear me--  BAMA??  I'm in Bama!!  I' m here!  I can not believe Kristen and Jack got engaged and now the wedding is getting near.  Its the time to sit back and have fun!  Im trying to post updated for our family who is not able to join us(we have a bundle of love baby boy that will be here in less than a month. 
         With that said, my girl cousins are truly the sisters Ive always wanted (Courtney, Kristen, and Kelli).  Each one of them them are the most unique and loveable girls. I love that we can pick up right were we left off last. (I want to say a huge thanks to my sweet coworkers who are helping with an event at school that I helped planned.)   I'm so excited to spend some time with my girls and continue to make memories.  
   I'm loving that I get to spend time with Kristen before her big day!  


Kristen- I hope these next few days are everything you have dreamed of.. We've Prayed for this day and you GOT a Great Batechelor for a catch.
                                                 Love,
                                                  Jenn

The Way I was Made by Chris Tomlin

The Way I was made by Chris Tomlin

Tonight I went to workout and just spend some time outside alone with the Lord.  I came across this Chris Tomlin song.  I actually listened to this song several times to just take the words all in.  I truly want to live like there is no Tomorrow.  We truly do not know how long we have on this earth and I do not want to miss opportunities that God gives me on a daily basis.  But most importantly I want to be more like Christ and example for others! I DESIRE to be the Woman God has Made and Called Me to Be!!

Believing, Expecting, and Trusting,

Jenn

Seeing Christ through a Child's Perspective

I love the opportunity and actually the blessing of babysitting kids in my spare time.  Tonight I got 3 of the 4 kids all tucked in and read a book, said our prayers and then they went to sleep.

Then I picked up the baby and we just rocked for a bit.  As I sat holding him in my arms singing softly he quickly became so Relaxed in my arms.  

Why?  

Because he had total trust in me.  

Now as I sat there and thought about how this baby TRUSTS me.  He knows I am not going to harm him, he knows I am going to love him, and take care of him.

So as an adult why do I struggle with Trusting God, and try to take matters in my own hands.  

GOD has NEVER let me Down- h

e is constantly taking care of me in ways that I might not even acknowledge or realize what he is doing.

Just like I love that little baby to pieces it is Exactly how Christ feels towards me.  He is going to take care of all my needs-- all I have to do is TRUST him and OBEY.

Here are some verses I read this week:

Joshua 23:3

And you have seen all that the Lord has done to all these nations for your sake, for it is the Lord your God who has fought for you.

Joshua 23:8

But you shall cling to the Lord your God just as you have done this day!

Joshua 23:10-11

The Lord fights for you..  Be very careful therefore to love the Lord your God...

I want to be like the child that has true child like FAITH.. My desire is to bring God glory in everything I do and to TRUST him...

Believing, Expecting, and Trusting,

Jenn

 

3 Words
Believing, Expecting, and Trusting

About 2 weeks ago, a sweet friend and I started praying about a certain situation in our lives. We decided to text each other prayers throughout the day about this request. WOW! God is really teaching me how to pray about this topic. I love how the Holy Spirit is truly at work in our lives and tells us how to pray when we seem to be at a loss of words. Well over the last week Ive been ending my prayers with these 3 words:
Believing- I am not doubting any more but pressing into the Lord like never before.

Expecting- I am expecting God to answer this prayer and I believe it is going to blow me away.

Trusting- Ive got all hands on deck trusting God for whatever he has in store.

I love how the Lord keeps revealing verses to me as I continue through this journey in life.
Here are some from this week:

Phil 1:6

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in YOU will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.

Psalms 86:11

Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name. I give thanks to YOU, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever!

Believing, Expecting, and Trusting,
Jenn

Embrace of a Child

Today, I got a new student and as I met her in the hallway she ran to me and embraced me with the Biggest hug. It was our first time meeting and she had the biggest smile on her face. Now a little birdie told me she was from the land of one of baseballs greatest teams. Of Course, my first question was Who do you cheer for in baseball? Oh YES, she looked at me and laughed. She loves baseball!!!

As the day went on, I just watched her as she quickly picked up our daily routines! She just kept smiling and would just walk up and hug me through out the day! I'm reflecting on the day and one sticks out most is how she Embraced me with love without even knowing me. She gave me instant love and gratification. Now isn't that what Christ does with us daily. He embraces us with his arms stretched out open with his LOVE. Even when we do not make the right choices in life, his arms are opened even more.

I am so thankful for this student who has already touched my heart! I am thankful for the reminder to truly embrace everyone I come in contact with, especially when I am in a hurry at the grocery store.. You never know what someone else is going through and with just a little embrace of love- it could change their whole day!

Embracing with Love,
Jenn

Quotes from Kids


I love the TV show Kids say the Darnest Things...
Well every year I say I need to write down what my students tell me. This week I have had several funny comments from my kids.

• Miss Smith, "Why do you snort sometimes when you laugh??"
• One of my girls asked me at the very end of the day if I found a dress to an upcoming May Wedding that I am in. I said, YES!! Another student looks at me and says When are you going to be a BRIDE and wear White. You need to STOP being in all these Weddings.
  

• A month ago one of my Girls says, Miss Smith have you met a guy yet? Well I think you should go to Walmart and meet him. Then you could get married over the weekend. (I love how they think its so easy to meet a guy and get married.)
  

Another Conversation with a girl student from another class:
Miss Smith, "Have you ever been on a tv show??"
Me: No, Why?
Student: You look like Joey( Katie Holmes) from Dawson's Creek..
Me: Well that's a compliment..

I have to admit my kids really make me laugh! I love their honesty and they just say things that they think about--they are not being rude at all about me not being married. They are just so passionate and love me. I am amazed at the comments they share with me. Being in this profession for the past 10 years I have lots of stories from my students. I hope they always remember me as I remember them! I hope they were truly impacted by me as a teacher and will always follow their dreams!

Just Laugh it Out,
Jenn

"Oh Hey!!
Could I please take my picture with you?"

My students would be so excited!
YES this will be added to our Ranger Wall in our Classroom!

Free Tickets Why Yes Please....with a little OH HEY in the Mix...

My friend Sharon got free tickets to last Wednesday nights game.
So we get inside the stadium at 5 and find out the different players and coaches will be signing autographs from 5:30-6:00.
Who's line did we get in??
Mitch Moreland

Of Course, we enjoyed the cooler weather and a beautiful night at the ball park!
(Unfortunately it was our 2nd loss for the season...)
But an incredible game we lost in the top of the 9th inning!

I love BASEBALL Season!!
Let's Go Rangers!
Jenn

Another Item Checked off the Bucket List
Opening Day

Texas Rangers
Good Friday
April 6, 2012

The Girls Before the Game
Look who I ran into at the Game!!

Our tailgating deliciousness..
Thanks to Gibbs and the guys for setting up the tent and chairs!


As most of you know I love the Rangers Games!
I love going to the games and the atmosphere!
I was very disappointed when I found out how the
Rangers were doing Opening Day tickets this year it was a lottery...

Well thanks to one of my sweetest friends Renee, she gave me her ticket to the game!
I was so thankful bc she knew how bad I wanted to go to Opening Day...
It was such a great game.
Colby Lewis started on the mound!
We got our 1st W for the Season...

Then we hurried back to Plano, so we could attend our Good Friday Baptism and the Lord's Supper Service. This is one of my favorite services to see so many people following in believers baptism. It just makes me think about the Party we will have in Heaven one day!!

God Bless,
Jenn

Bucket List
To Run 1/2 Marathon
Rock N Roll Dallas 1/2
March 23, 2012

Wow!! I can not even begin to tell you that GOD was all over this Achievement! IF you know me, I have never been a runner. When my running buddy Sharon, asked me to do this with her, I laughed... Now I have a new hobby... I started running in the middle of December- and every Sat morning have been up at 6 or 7 out running... I did miss my sleeping in on Saturday mornings but I have loved every little lesson I learned from this journey!

So the week before the race, if you have not heard.. Well, I have not been sick in years--guess who came down with a horrible case of bronchitis. Yes it was me. On Wednesday, I was given a steroid shot, and was told there was a very high risk that I would not be able to run on Sunday. Basically I was in the beginning stages of pneumonia. So I called my Pop, and just cried.. I just started praying that the Lord would heal me. Well, the next few days are a blur-literally... I went to bed on Saturday night feeling awful, my lungs were yuck... I could not stop coughing..

So I went to my Pop and mom and we just PRAYED for a Miracle. I woke up at 12:30 ready to go and just laid in my bed praying the Lord would heal me so I could run! I was awake most of the day. At 5:15 Pop came in and woke me up. We had to do the fever check-- I was good.. But I woke up with the biggest smile on my face and a peace because I knew God was going to get me through this race.

Yes, I was a little anxious but it was time to go... After waiting forever, we started running around 8:30-- from the minute the race started I could not stop smiling-- I knew God was going to carry me through. My precious parents and friends were cheering me on and it made me keep pressing on.

My roommate Audrey and Angela made posters for us:
* Oh Hey-- If you know me I love this saying!
*This is my sisters PARTY!
**My favorite saying for the week- Focus on this MILE.
**Hurry Up we are going to be late for Church..

At mile 3 I knew we were Golden, as I saw my sweet parents and friends standing on the corner I felt great and my lungs were clear. PRAISE GOD! At mile 9 my BIG SIS D'Anna Hebert had chocolate for us.

I crossed the finish line and could not find my fam and friends fast enough... But the most important after pics and celebrating-- the coughing started back... I PRAISE GOD for this ACCOMPLISHMENT.

God heard my PRAYER he ANSWERED.. This has made me cling more to the Lord! I am beyond thankful for the relationship I have with Christ. I give him all the PRAISES for this CHECK off the Bucket List.

You can do anything...
Phil 4:13
I can do all things through Christ who Strengthens ME...

Am I finished with running, No I am just beginning!
God Bless
Jenn