Sunday blues

What a difference four days can make. I wrote my last post in Wednesday 24th... It's now the 28th and I have struggled to be myself.

I'm reminded of one of my favourite songs at the moment. I mentioned it briefly in my last post... Please take time to listen to it... The words are perfect. 

Hillsong- oceans(where feet may fail)

He never fails so why would He stop now?

Prayer...

I am so passionate about prayer and would encourage anyone to continue in their prayer life. I love praying... I get to thank, wonder, be still, listen, rant, cry... You name it! 

I wanted to write this post to actually put my hand up and say- earlier I had a break down...and not my car! 

Emotionally could not cope. 

Looking from the outset, I probably acted like a toddler having a tantrum. I cried, screamed, threw and prayed. 

I do think its okay for me to be like this- not all the time, no. But now and again I'm allowed to have a little break down... Maybe I shouldn't have them to the extent that they are, but I need to release emotions. 

What I am trying to say is that, I am not perfect. I struggle with a lot of things, and even when God confirms a specific calling or gift when I am feeling like that, it's even harder. I question why would He? To give me a glimpse of light? Maybe. So he kept his promise? Maybe. A reminder that just because I am feeling like this doesn't make me less of a Christian? Yes! 

Pray.

C x 

It's been a while

I would say that my body clock woke me up at a ridiculous time this morning- not to mention on my day off, but actually, God did. I have woken up completely refreshed and feel I've been given 400mg of joy! 

These past few months, lets just say-its been a challenge. Emotions have been high and if I'm completely honest, I've struggled. 

Today I am feeling amazingly blessed, even tho I lack a quantity of friends... But actually, the quality of the friends I have, is very rare. So I am thankful.

God has been so giving in His grace, mercy and unfailing love- no shocker there! 

My journaling journey restarts today.... Lets do this!

'It is better to be hated for who you are, rather than loved for who you are not' -Andre Gide.

Just to show you how cute I was when younger.....

procrastination

Right now, I should be finishing my essays that are due in 36 hours... but instead, I am trying to fill time and thought I'd blog...why not?!

I thought I'd share a few pictures about my last few weeks and who I've been able to share those memories with.

This is my little friend AJ. You can follow his(Kate's) blog here k8erickson.blogspot.co.uk

These two beauties are my sisters.

This is how I spent my bank holiday. A good breckie, a walk and fun in the park with friends.

And this is just some family fun.

 Precious times.

I love these girls SO much.

C x

Finding rest

1st May 2013

After a couple of rough days, God made it clear that I needed some time with Him, to sit, talk&listen. I knew that it needed to be somewhere where my thoughts would be in the distance, so I decided it needed to be a beach. Preferably on the cliff tops over looking the sea and be able to take in the beauty of creation.

I chose Rest Bay, why? 
Because it is the one place which I love, and the name kind of gives it away, a restful place.

I sat on a bench on the cliff tops, admiring the view. 

I noticed something in the sand, footprints. I have been so caught up in feeling alone, that I have pushed God aside and let my feelings take over. 

The footprints in the sand, a poem I am familiar with, but I could see physical footprints. Sometimes we do need an actual resemblance of something for it to sink in.

God told me "I will never leave you, I am with you always" my mind immediately went to the two verses in scripture.

"Think about how many 'fear not for I am with you' verses are in the bible. 

God assures us He wont abandon us".

During this reflective time, I have been reminded that even when I feel alone, and friends may not be around, God is there, He will never leave me. He chooses to meet me daily. In scripture, James tell us that Gods word is a mirror, it gives us a better view of ourselves, of God, and others.

My bible means a lot to me, but being challenged on just picking it up once a day or maybe once every two days, simply is not enough.

After all, who am I to push my Creator aside.

C x

April....

April has been the month of good news.....

Friends are having babies, birthdays, uni presentations passed, friendships remade, finally good weather, fellowship with Bethesda, oh and did I mention my best friend is engaged?!?!!!!!!!!!!

You belong with me in my sweet heart

I am totally obsessed with the song by The Lumineers - Ho Hey! What a great song!
One of the guys from church plays it all the time...and at first, yes, it was annoying....but I actually have grown to love it! Have a listen....

Yesterday, I was reminded about How much God loves me, and will never let my foot slip because He holds me! Psalm 121 - read it!!! 
This song (kind of) compliments the verse......I do believe that God belongs in my heart..and I am in His.... 

"All I am is yours"

C x

You've got a friend in me!

You've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me
When the road looks rough ahead
And you're miles and miles
From your nice warm bed
You just remember what your old pal said
Boy, you've got a friend in me
Yeah, you've got a friend in me

You've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me
If you've got troubles,I've got 'em too
There isn't anything I wouldn't do for you
We stick together and can see it through
Cause you've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me

Disney's Toy Story - You've got a friend in me

This week has been hard going, in fact it's made a triplet in my last month! I love the good days, but sometimes want to bad days to be a little bit brighter.

I've been challenged by so many things this week, unbelievably has changed certain things that I do in my daily life and my daily walk with Jesus. 

I miss certain people, I'd love to have more time for people, give more, pray more, love more, be selfless, give hugs more...

One thing that has struck me today.... I keep focusing on being loved, by people....and I've been so consumed with what people think of me, acceptance and how I act around people, that I've forgotten WHO I am loved by.

I am loved by friends. YES.

I am loved by family. YES.

I am loved by my church. YES.

..............and by who? GOD!!

If any of this post will encourage you, I really want to encourage you from the bottom of my heart to remember, that you too, are loved by an unchanging God, who cares so much, that He gave us Jesus.

Tomorrow is another day...yes! Another chance to try harder with our relationship with God! How exciting is that!!!! 

Religion says DO.

Jesus says DONE.     -  Jefferson Bethke

If you get a spare few minutes, check out this video - VERY encouraging!

Why did I copy 'You've got a friend in me?' ...

Because amongst all my wants and desires... I've been given amazing friends. Tonight, Bethany and I cooked fajitas mmmmmmmmmmm, attempted to watch Toy Story 2, and have a catch up. I sometimes get disheartened by the lack of true friendships in my life - but I am very grateful for the ones I have, because they actually make up for the loss in the others! Thankful!

Bethany has a blog too... check it out! It's under blogs I follow!

C x

Encourage.

This past week has been such an emotional roller coaster... wasn't sure I'd make it through - but He gave the strength again! I have been given amazing support, friends, verses... I could go on!

I have loved psalm 119v73-80 these past few days... my thoughts were 'wow' and that is all I had to say - for once! Just wow...loved, accepted, forgiven.

After a busy day at work today, I logged onto facebook, to see that Alyssa Joy had a new post... and an amazing one at that. I've been feeling a failure at SO many things lately, and I've been reassured through her amazing gift of writing and encouragement!

Check out her website... You'll love it!
http://blog.alyssajoy.me/

The post is Lessons in Grace...we all need it!!!!

LOVE this photo on there...



C x

busy, busy, busy

During a crazy couple of weeks, I've been struggling to find time for a social life!!! I would have never have thought I'd be a busy person....but I am! I am not even in a full time job yet, but I am working the equivalent! Time for uni, essays, work and social time...wow... there literally aren't enough hours in a day! Don't you just hate those days?!!!! I DO!

I've managed to find some time to hang out with friends, and those times have been treasured for sure. I went out to The Little Blue Deli one afternoon with a friend, Kate. We both have busy lives, but it was lovely to catch up and just hang out together! I am very blessed. Plus, they do the best Caramel Bliss Hot Chocolates - ever!!!



Isn't it just the cutest?!

During this week, we've had a Capernwray team at our church... it's been amazing to hang out with friends who have a common interest, and are about my age! It's been amazing to watch them be a part of our community and be welcomed by everyone. We will miss them a lot!!!!

C x

Beyond blessed....x

Let's try this again... Yes, my post 'deleted itself' - I repel technology!!!! Right...

After a rather hectic week, I had been looking to my day off - Sunday! What a day to have off too.... Today we gave thanks to God for my little friends Emelia & Asa Shaw..... I have SO much love for those two! I'm looking forward to watching them grow up and as a family. Today was a reminder of how powerful God IS. We may have doubts.... but that's ok, who doesn't!? If you don't - I salute you!!

I am very proud of my friends Lizz&John, they are so encouraging, humble, loving, gifted... you guys are really special to me, thank you for everything! 

This morning, I woke up to my little sisters, Isabelle & Jessica shouting at me - Yes, at 7am after not getting to sleep till 1am.... I was exhausted, but they made it less painful as I love spending the time I have with them. They're an amazing blessing to me, after 16 years of being an only child - It's nice to finally have sibling time! I cannot wait until they are older, we are going to have so much fun!

Love you girls a lot!

 

C x

Romans 9v25

Flicked through some books this morning whilst having an hour or so to myself.... 
Came across this beauty....

Dydd Gwyl Dewi Sant!

C x

Last week of February

So, these past few days have been hard for me. 
Struggles and worries come and go.... but I am thankful for one thing that still remains.

God.

Always.

&

Forever.

Hoping for the weekend to brighten my week up!

C x

Tomorrow is Saturday!

Today is Friday....so tomorrow is Saturday!!!!!!!! Very happy to be welcoming the weekend...but tomorrow I have to get through a grueling 9 hour shift before I see any light at the end of the tunnel!
This week has been amazing..... I have new friends, learnt a LOT, spent time with a close friend, explored the depths of faith, been challenged, blessed and just thankful for everything in my life.

It's funny how being out of your usual environment gives you space to just ...breathe! If you know me, you'd know I love walks...fresh air, scenery, and sometimes with dear friends...or just being in my own company. I guess the best thing is that you have time to reflect...on the week or days gone by and to come.

I have learnt how valuable friendships are in my life, and how much people can impact your life...forever. Now, you're thinking 'wow, that's deep stuff for you', but sometimes it's nice to have your thoughts written down...not sometimes, always! Oh how I love writing!

Back to the weekend, after I have made it through saturday, I am going straight to bed and recharge for Sunday. I am SO excited for Sunday... Sunday means I get to see friends I haven't seen in two weeks, be in worship, and learn!

Even better..... I have a date with my beautiful friend Bes in the morning.... a walk is planned, lots of catching up, laughter, cuddles, and enjoying the moment. I love our friendship....seriously excited to see you buddy!

Melissa.... I will miss you - it's been amazing to spend time with you and live a bit of your life!

So, goodbye to the week and hello weekend!!!

C x

The land of Scots

This past week I have been on a mission orientation - mission training! It's in Scotland, and part of a friend's course...so I am in lectures with her, which it has been amazing to spend time with her and get to know her friends here.


 
 These are some friends...Alison, Hannah, James, Tom, myself & Mel!

I have thoroughly enjoyed the week so far, many laughs, memories, beautiful weather and of course, I have learnt a lot, which is slowly sinking in! 

It's been amazing to have fellowship with these guys, and get to know their plans for the next year or so in mission! 

Here's just a few pictures from our walk on tuesday...




 

What a beautiful walk....

Very much needed after a day of lectures! 

C x

Book princesses

What a friend...

A close friend of mine, also has a book obsession - although I'd say she is a little worse than me!!

BUT

I think that is amazing!

On a few occasions now, I have been given books by Lucy...obviously only good authors! But they are the most encouraging books I've set eyes on. 

Lucy Patterson... thank you for being my friend!
You've been there when I've needed you, made me smile, taken many walks with me, read to me, prayed with me... what more could I ask for! 

'God writes perfect endings. He can't help it.'

C x

blue sky

Since Friday.... we've had blue skies for the majority of the afternoons - for Wales, this is a rarity! 
As much as I love blue sky.... I didn't really take advantage of it whilst it was here... I spent Friday&Sunday afternoon napping....complete bliss..

Hopefully we will see more of this..... I cannot wait to go for a walk!

C x

wedding wedding wedding

This morning I had the pleasure of doing two close friends make up for a wedding that they have. I absolutely loved it! I'm not sure why... but part of me will always love to pamper others - I felt like a professional!

Without any of my input... they looked absolutely beautiful! All four of them! 

It was kind of like a girlie day (ish!!!!) just with a little stress! 

I am feeling very blessed right now... I have so many precious, beautiful friends in my life.. that encourage me, send amazing texts, have dates, girlie nights, and go for food! 

Loving life....

C x

coffee dates

This particular spot in Coffee #1 is usually my little corner..

The more I visit here... the more I love it. Sometimes it can be packed out, but when it's not busy, I can sit with my journal, study books, a good book or with friends and chat. The latter one is the best kind of coffee date!

My drink here would be a hot chocolate with marshmallows.... as much as I love Starbucks drinks... we don't do marshmallows - and I'm sorry, that's a must!!!!!!! 

C x

“The most important thing is to enjoy your life—to be happy—it's all that matters.”

- Audrey Hepburn

Lately, I've been thinking about memories....memories that make me smile. 
I thought of a few places where I truly feel happy and take in every single thing in my life that I appreciate. The majority of these places are beaches.... I LOVE beaches... I'd happily spend all day there, every day - on the basis I have warm clothes, food&drink!!!
Here's a few moments I've caught on camera....



Treyarnon Bay - my favourite!





Mother Ives... another close favourite - but not quite!





and of course Rest Bay, near home!

I have spent many trips here with a close friend, Emily. We love driving here and seeing the beauty around us (and not just looking at ourselves!!!) 
Yes, Rest Bay....I love it! The best part about it is that I can actually put my wetsuit on... and go surfing - no matter what season! You can't really get away with that at other beaches in Cardiff/Wales.... you would be highly frowned upon!

Everyone knows Cornwall is the best place to catch a wave or two... 

C x

what I did today....

Saturday....
Today, I went to work for 7am.... went to argos... picked up a desk.... fell over with it... built it (within 40mins) and had a bacon sarnie..... good day I think!

Well, who says women can't do DIY? Yes, I have cuts, Yes, I was exhausted....and Yes, it instructed a 2 man job.... not for me!!! I am feeling very proud right now!

So...here it is!!!




I don't think anyone can understand how much I've wanted somewhere to write...to study.... and to read!

Very

Very

Very happy!

I turned over my little clip board pad and found this.... 



C x

forever friends

On Sunday afternoon, I went for a walk with my beaut of a friend, Bethany. No one could ever fill the spot of our friendship, it's completely unique - completely. Now, when I say it is unique....the conversations that we have with each other, are just out of this world. We can be having a really good conversation, and neither of us are on the same page! I absolutely love it! 

Then, Monday evening, I saw her again! We cooked a delicious tea - spag bol mmmmmmmmm and then ventured out to buy a scary DVD...so we didn't just settle for one... we bought two! Purchased with easter eggs& maoams, to be eaten with a good cuppa! 

It's okay - we got through the movies...they were a little bit too much for us, but they didn't bring nightmares! Yay! 

Proverbs 17:17

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

C x

snow is falling all around us...

The world, as it seems, are fascinated by the snow fall over the last 5 or so days. It's actually crazy town here. Traffic, crashes, empty shelves, children running riot....mayhem!!!!
Today I couldn't make it into work because of the snow... as much as it was lovely having the day off - and of course my baby sisters, who aren't so much babies any more, are four today...well...I actually...I..I...missed it!!!!! I would have never ever thought I'd say that! 
So, in case you aren't aware of where I work... it is this beauty of a place...

                                      
As I thought I was supposed to be in work today, over the last few days I have spent a lot of time with my sisters. I don't get to see them often, but the last three days sure made up for it! After my working week, I looked forward to my Sunday off work...but spontaneously got to go sledging with the beauts! Man, it was sweeeeeeeeet! 

                                          

I want to share with you a little thought.
As you look at the snow, what do you see? who do you see? and why do you see it? As the years have gone by, I have ignored the beauty that God gives to us daily. I look around, and I can literally see the beauty of my Majesty - everywhere! 
It made me ask myself, what is God showing me through snow? 
Isaiah 1v18 
“Come now, let us settle the matter,”
    says the Lord.
“Though your sins are like scarlet,
    they shall be as white as snow;
though they are red as crimson,
    they shall be like wool."

and there you have it! 
Snow = My life with Jesus, what He's given me, what He continues to give me, even though I fail Him, I will be washed as white as snow.

C x

Back to blog

So, over this christmas period, well - a bit longer than the christmas period...I took a little break from blogging..So I've decided...I must must must start writing again. Man, I've missed this pretty layout! If you don't mind, I'm actually going to start writing about anything and everything, instead of just.. shopping!

Over the busyness of the holiday period, you sometimes get the 'January Blues', not me! I've actually loved January so far, and have realised how blessed I am for so many things in my life. 
I've been working tons, seeing friends, and actually, just enjoying some quiet time! I never thought I'd ever say that, but I LOVE reading! I cannot stop...book after book after book! Go me! Whilst I'm talking about books... may I recommend ANY book by Beth Moore, she's inspirational!

At the moment, I've been pretty disciplined with my bible studies, daily. This has had a huge impact upon my life, I constantly feel God reminding me of His promises, Mercy, Compassion and Grace He gives me. I've always been jealous of certain friends who just get verses given straight from God, and I have found that really difficult. It's actually down to your time aside with God and when that relationship deepens, you actually get to listen to Him, and know what is from Him, personally. 
He's been throwing verses at me, and I love it! 

My heart has been filled with compassion towards those who are hurting right now or are going through a difficult time. I wish I could constantly be there for them, give to them, and just be the friend I need to be, but that's not always humanly possible. It's so hard when we want to do anything we can to help right? but that's where we fail, because we can't, we're human! If we were built to manage everything and do everything ourselves, well there would not be any point in our awesome God would there?! 
This has been a huge challenge to me, I actually need to put a LOT more faith in a God who does the possible and reaches the impossible! 

Even when those difficult days come, and yes, even when I cannot pick up my bible, that's ok...maybe God wants to tell me something, so that I will sit and listen to Him. Those days where I don't want to shout or rant or pray for specific things, He knows what is on my heart, after all He knows everything about me - Psalm 139;Luke 12v7;

I've been reminded of how much of an amazing God I serve, He gave me this verse for the week... literally, for the week! He is with me, when I look around at creation - and that includes the snow over these past few days.... I see Him! Just simply amazing....


.