Paige Tennant

The King's Treasure

2011-01-31T06:43:00.012-05:00

(image from http://www.crosswalk.com)

Ladies, my heart is burdened for you. All of you. For the girl who is living out loud for Christ, and feels alone at times. She feels like no one cares, except God. For the girl searching ruthlessly, to fill that deep longing in her heart- my heart breaks for you. And for the girl who has basically rejected Christ and HIS standards (and in that, rejected His love and mercy), my heart breaks because you don’t know the fullness of joy in Christ. You are racing
down a path that is full of all kinds of destruction, and I just want to scream STOP! By your lifestyle, you are asking for an STD. You
are asking for a drug overdose. You are asking for a broken heart.
You ARE asking for destruction. Satan has come to rob, kill, and
destroy you. And if you let him, he by ALL means necessary, do just that.

I have nothing radical to say, but I have heaviness on my heart for you, and ladies like you. We have all meandered different paths and have different experiences. However, there are ties that bind us as women. The longings to be loved, accepted, and just not be confused about who we are! What a relief it would be if we could just figure ourselves out, right?!

Been there, ladies!! Most girls, if not all, go through a pretty funky phase as they are growing up. I know I did. Such an odd-ball I was (and not sure if that has changed ). It took a while for me to grow into my face. I wasn’t happy with my appearance. I didn’t like my nose, wasn’t crazy about the fact I had freckles, could NOT tan, and I didn’t like the way my legs were shaped. That, coupled with the fact that I had some stunningly beautiful friends- HELLO discontentment!!! And on top of that, I had no confidence, and unbearably shy. For once, I wanted to be the “one that lit up a room”, and was the “life of the party”!

While it DOES feel horrible to lack any self-confidence, let me be very clear about something. The underlying issue here is, whether we have the confidence of a Queen, or the complete lack of it, we are still being “me” focused. You may either have the mentality of, “Look at me! Look at me!” or the other extreme- “ I wish someone would look at ME”! Both are wrong. Both are forms of pride. So what is the right perspective?

There are countless books that will tell you how to help yourself. Even the professing church has a version, that’s quite unbiblical. “Be who you are”, they tell us. But, they are leaving off a key ingredient...”in Christ”. I can attest to the fact that without Christ I would be a big, fat mess. I spent a while feeling like a fish out of water. Looking back, how could I be content with myself, when I wasn’t following the path of my Creator? He made me a certain way, for His purpose and glory. So if I wasn’t following Him, on His terms, how in the world could I be content? He created me to have a relationship with Him, but without Him, I would always be incomplete...and would not be able to find contentment anywhere else.

When I was 14 I fully committed my life to Christ. Fully. And I struggled a lot. Believe me. Just because I was living for the Lord did not mean I my days of struggling with who I was, was over. It took around 5 years! I believe as long as you live on the earth, you will deal with fearing man, and wanting to please people. You may want to please people in “good” ways, such as volunteering for absolutely everything, just so people will lift you up and like you. Or because you can’t say no, because that will hurt their feelings. Or maybe you swing to the other extreme, wanting to please people in sinful, unbiblical ways.

It wasn’t until I was about eighteen or nineteen years old that I FINALLY became ok with who I was in Christ. With that, came peace. What sweet peace! Our generation, girls, has such a super-star mentality, even in church. We feel that if we don’t do something that looks all great and big to everyone else, then you need to keep trying to do those big things (even if that is not what He has equipped you for). I didn’t have to be great. I don’t have to sing. I don’t have to be a gifted communicator, because that is not what he specifically designed for me. If he has gifted you in those areas, then great. And on occasion, He may “stretch” you a little by placing opportunities for you to do those things. But for me, it is freeing to know that I didn’t have to be “GREAT” in the eyes of others. I wasn’t designed for stardom. I hope that makes sense. When we know who we are IN Christ, this in not an occasion to say “Look at me”. No. It’s to say “look at Him!”. We should not exude Self- confidence, but reliance upon Him! It’s His approval we should be longing for. Galatians 1:10 says it this way “ Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ."

If you try to “find yourself” on your own terms, you will probably fall into a trap of eating disorders, sexual promiscuity, hopping from one guy to another, parties and things like that. Satan knows when we are weak. That’s when he is on the prowl for weak prey. When you feel weak and tempted, pour your heart out to the Lord and dig in the Word of God! When you don’t feel so tempted, read and dig into His Word. Hide God’s Word in your heart, so you will be armed and ready at any moment. You need it everyday.

Ladies, I am in prayer for you. Seek the Lord. Give your insecurities to Him. He already knows about them anyway. As you lay these things at the foot of the cross, remember this, “The king is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your Lord.”- Psalm 45:11.

(image from http://www.musiclyric4christian.com/the-bible.html)

Our Story

2010-01-11T09:55:00.005-05:00

I have been encouraged by some, to write a note on how Adam and I met, and the love story behind it. I do love to tell it, and am excited to be able to write it. There is a lot to it, so it may be kind of lengthy, and I am sure there are typos and errors, but I don't have the time right now to do lots of editing.

Our Story

Growing up, when all my friends were dating in middle and high school…let's just say the guys were not knocking down the door to get to know me! I was awkward, very insecure, and incredibly shy. While those aren't godly attributes, I do thank God that guys weren't just dying to talk to me…or this could be a very different story. I had crushes, like every other person. I got disappointed. And most of the guys that did approach me, well, lets just say I was FAR from interested in them. God kept me from having my heart broken. even before I learned what courtship was all about. Even though all my friends who dated, seemed to be having a blast, it sure wasn't pretty when they broke up.

Let's fast forward to when I am sixteen ( I think). My youth leaders did a series on courtship. It was a curriculum called "A Match Made in Heaven" by Richard Crisco. It discussed the dangers of dating and how dating is actually practicing for divorce. I won't cover all the material because there is way too much. But, it was then that I realized that I wanted God's best. It was hard. I didn't necessarily commit to the courtship process, but I tried my hardest to keep my heart only for my future husband alone.

In the years that followed, I grew much as a person. I slowly came out of my shell. I was growing in the Lord, and accepting who HE made me to be. I wasn't supposed to be like all the other girls. He made me different. He made us all different. It is so liberating when we realize this and just learn to be ourself! I devoured resources that encouraged purity. I will list them at the bottom if you are so inclined to read…for yourself or for your children.

So now to the really good stuff! Pay attention to the dates. It was the first Saturday night in January 2004. January 3rd to be exact. At that time, we had prayer on Saturday nights at the church. I was praying, and suddenly, the Lord impressed it on my heart to pray for my future husband, right then. I had no idea who this person was. I wasn’t interested in anyone, and I didn't know of anyone interested in me. It was strange, but I prayed anyway. I had read about people praying for their future spouse on a regular basis. There had been times when I prayed about it, if it popped in my head, but nothing consistent. But, this night changed everything.

For the next two days, I pondered why God had me pray for this man. It was a feeling of urgency. So two days later, on January 5th, I began to journal heavily about all that I was dealing with. This journal saw many emotions. This journal saw a lot of growth. I was committed to this man I never met. I prayed for him as often as I thought about it…which was probably close to every day. Not fancy prayers. I would just breathe prayers of protection of his life, or that God would help him resist temptation. Things like that.

As I wrote, God showed me other things. It wasn't just about praying for him. I needed prayer, too. I surely wasn't wife material. There were things in me that God had to do before I could hope to be ready for the amazing thing called marriage.

So all of 2004 goes by, and nothing. No knight in shining armor for me! Then 2005 begins and…same thing. One night, I think late February, I was introduced to a visitor at our church, a guy named Adam. It was just kind of a quick handshake and "nice -to-meet-you" sort of thing. He begins attending our church on a regular basis. He is a nice guy…not to mention good looking…but that’s about it. Then he starts talking to me. Nothing major, just friendly stuff. I notice that he seems to actually LIKE talking to me, and sought me out to talk to me. I liked this. But, there were some problems. He had just become a Christian in February and was still battling an addiction to painkillers. It was tough, because in my heart, I really, really liked him.But, I knew a relationship with him just could not happen. Not then anyway.

In August 2005, things dramatically changed. Adam was miraculously delivered from his addiction to drugs. But, it was much more than just deliverance from bad addictions. He grew in the Lord by HUGE leaps and bounds. I really don't think I have ever seen a transformation, with my own eyes, quite like Adam. He began to read the Bible everyday. Since that time, I think he has missed only one or two days of reading since 2005! Incredible. While I watched all this, I was so excited! I started to see qualities in him develop that I desired in my future husband. But, I still knew I had to give it time. Growing up in church, it was so common to see people passionate and on-fire, only to have them go back to their worldly ways and never see them again. I had to know that this change was real, and wasn't a fleeting passion. We continued to grow as friends. Hardly anyone knew of my feelings toward Adam, though my flesh wanted at least him to know. I think the only ones who knew were my mom, and one close friend who I knew wouldn't share this with anybody. I felt it was important to keep quiet about it, because the last thing I needed was some "friend" telling me to tell Adam how I felt. Or better yet, having that "friend" tell Adam how I felt. So, I continued to wait.

This next part is kinda funny. January 2 (I think) of 2006. I am attending a church meeting. My pastor introduces me to another young man and is speaking highly of him. Basically, this guy wanted to know if he could call me. This gentleman did not attend our church, but I knew of him. I did give the guy my phone number, but felt weird about it. While flattered, the whole time, I was thinking about Adam. That's who I wanted! But, since he hadn't voiced any feelings or anything to me, I couldn't think of an excuse not to (though I could think of a few now!). Adam was also attending this meeting, and as it turns out, was in earshot of this conversation. This sorta lit a fire under his tail.

The next few days were very conflicting for me. This guy would call. He was nice and all, but I really wasn't interested. And I didn't know how to tell that to him, in a nice, honest way. One of my many flaws, is that I beat around the bush…and the person on the receiving end doesn't seem to get the point. My heart agonized, because I did not want to, in any way, lead this guy on. But, then I thought, maybe I should give this a chance. Maybe this is who God has for me, and not Adam.

Then comes a really good day! January 5, 2006. Adam and I met up for lunch at the yummy K&W! We had met for lunch frequently prior to all of this, so this was not unusual. Earlier that morning, my mom told me it was going to be a good day. So I was expecting something. Not sure what…but something! We eat all of our lunch, and nothing. Just normal conversation. Finally, we both are getting to leave and head back to our jobs. I can't remember exactly all he said. I think he just blurted out "Um, what are you doing Saturday night?". Haha! Unfortunately, I really did have plans that night. But was quick to say maybe another night. When I told him, he then proceeded to tell me that he would like to begin a relationship with me and that he called my dad the night before to ask his permission! I’ve heard about young men asking the lady's father for permission to marry their daughter, but not to begin a relationship. It was very honorable of him to seek my father’s permission before entering into a relationship. I was on cloud nine! The whole day I don't think I could stop smiling. Shortly after, I realized the significance of this day…it was 2 years to the DAY that I began journaling about him! I was blown away! Talk about timing! God’s timing.

So begins our courtship. Like I said before, we weren't perfect, and if we could go back, there are things we would do differently. But, early on we were committed to purity. It was awesome, because Adam was actually the one who thought we should save our first kiss for the wedding day. He was not interested in just dating. From the beginning, marriage was in mind. It was so great to not be physically involved, because we really got to know each others personalities really well. We were (and are) very different, but we learned how those things can complement each other.

My birthday is on November 7th. But, this particular year I was going to be away the on weekend of my birthday. Adam wanted to celebrate it early. We decided that we would get together to celebrate it on October 21.

He made dinner for me and gave me this beautiful mirror that I LOVE! Then he hands me this piece of paper and wants me to read aloud. I start getting a hunch at whats going on, but try not to go crazy in case I was wrong. The Paper read :

To My Beautiful Paige

To my beautiful Paige, I give my heart.
To explain my love, where should I start?
First of all; the day I saw you I fell in love.
Now, I know God sent you, like a gift from above.
Knowing you love me is such a blessing to me.
God unlocked my heart, but you were His key.
Knowing that I can love you and you'll love me back;
I promise my love for you will never grow slack.
What a journey it's been, falling in love with you.
I'm so much in love, I hardly know what to do.
I think about you all day; morning, noon and night.
I imagine our future what a beautiful sight.
Speaking of our future, I want to do things right.
I could hardly wait for this wonderful night.
I went to your folks and they said O.K.
Now I hope I don't trip over the words I say.
Just the thought of this moment makes my blood pressure rise.
So just put down this paper so I can look into your eyes…

I wish I could remember verbatim what he said at this point! I know he told me that he loved me and asked if I would marry him. He then opened a box with an incredibly gorgeous ring in it! Of course, without even seeing the ring my answer was a big, fat “YES!” But, let me tell you about this ring. Us women love to look at pictures of engagement rings and wedding dresses and all that good stuff. I liked the princess cut, but I really liked the emerald cut diamond ring. I never told Adam what I liked, but I did tell my friend (now sister-in-law) what I liked and so he found out through her. It was a stunning ring.

After that ring was placed on my finger, he proceeded to tell me something I didn't know about emerald cut diamonds. For that particular size and cut, the diamond has to be very pure, or it will be easy to spot imperfections. He added, that knowing this reminded him of me and my desire to remain pure! Wow! I was so blown away. What a beautiful gift!

Shortly after, we decided on a wedding date of April 14, 2007. During our engagement the Lord strongly revealed some areas that we needed to change. When we compare ourselves to others, its easy to justify certain actions. But when the Holy Spirit convicts us, no matter how good we think we are, we had better obey. Adam had his own home and had a roommate living there. And we hung out there a lot of the time. Again, we were strong and really would just hang out and talk or watch a movie. But, there are a few things very wrong about this. 1 Thessalonians 5:22 says "Abstain from all appearance of evil". In 1 Corinthians 8 it talks about not being a stumbling block to others. It just didn't look good, me being there with him, many times alone. We were involved in youth ministry and how would this have looked to them? We may have been strong and in control of ourselves, but this was sending a message to them that they could do this with no problems as well. By the grace of God alone, we were strong. But, had we had one weak moment, things could have changed dramatically. It's like playing with fire. I am not saying you can never, ever be alone. But there are principles in the courtship process that allow for that in a safer environment then your boyfriends home or apartment. My mom had even warned me about it not looking good, even though she trusted us, but I just shrugged it off (outwardly), though it was still deep in my thoughts. The kind of thoughts you just tuck away and choose not to think of. But in January of '07. God dealt with us and Adam decided that I shouldn't come over anymore. He would start coming to my house ( I lived with my parents) a lot more. It's hard when you know you have sinned against God, but such grace when you repent and do things completely the right way!

FINALLY- April 14th arrives! This was a perfect day in every way. I wasn't nervous. I was sure and really happy! Of course, there was excitement and a little nervousness about the wedding and all those people watching me, and just the fact that I was getting ready to vow my life to another person. But I was sure and I knew this was the man that God designed for me to be with. The weather was perfect. Things ran smoothly. Well except for one part. I had read of a couple who had a footwashing in there ceremony. If you recall in the Bible. where Jesus washed the feet of his disciples as a symbols of servanthood and humility . We wanted to symbolically say, " I will serve you". It was a beautiful moment except for when it was my turn to wash his feet, trying to put a dress sock on a damp foot wasn't easy! You had to be there….it was just funny! But it was a perfect ceremony. We exchanged rings, and vows. " The pastor then pronounces " Mr. and Mrs. Adam Tennant….you may kiss the bride"! That long-awaited kiss finally came! A beautiful kiss! Such a good kiss, I asked him for another one there at the altar! It was surreal and I felt like I was floating! God truly had the best for me in every way. Be encouraged to wait on the Lord and not take things into your own hands.

And that's the beginning of our journey, The romance didn't die at the honeymoon, either. He is still so loving toward me. We aren't perfect and are still learning so much about one another. But I have to say it has been something I would do all over again in a heartbeat! He is an amazing man and I love him to death!

Sorry this was so lengthy, but I felt it was good to get it all down for my own personal use as well.

Thanks for reading!

ON THE PATH TO PURITY...
Here are great resources to assist you on the journey

GUYS
" God's gift to Women"-Eric Ludy
"Every Young Man's Battle"
"Who moved the Goalposts?"-Bob Gresh
"The Purity Challenge"
"The Scottish Chiefs"-Jane Porter

LADIES
"Every Young Woman's battle"
"Authentic Girl"-Leslie Ludy
When God Writes Your Love Story" Eric and Leslie Ludy
"When Dreams Come True" Eric and Leslie Ludy
"And the Bride wore White" Dannah Gresh
"Passion and Purity" -Elizabeth Elliot
"A Return to Modesty" -Wendy Shalit
"Wait for Me"-Rebecca St.James

GUYS AND GIRLS
"Choosing God's Best"- Dr. Don Rannikar
"I Kissed Dating Goodbye"-Joshua Harris
"Boy Meets Girl"-Joshua Harris
"Sex is not the problem (lust is)"-Joshua Harris

WEBSITES
www.ericandleslie.com
www.authenticgirl.com
www.purefreedom.org

Ladies-Go to www.grantedministries.org,

then click on articles and scroll down to "Becoming Esther" by Charo Washer...it's Fantastic

I'm back!

2009-12-30T07:57:00.002-05:00

So it has been forever, it seems, since I have blogged about anything. Since my last rambling, we have been blessed with a precious little boy, Wesley. He is now 12 weeks old. What a joy he is!

Thanksgiving and Christmas were wonderful. We are blessed to have good families around us. We had good times of reflection and meditating on the birth and life of our Savior. Now on to 2010!

I am only 25, but it is crazy how fast time flies. I was thinking, it was was 10 years ago that everyone was all hyped up about Y2K! Remember that?? I guess I was 15 at the time and I remember being nervous about it...but, thank goodness...there was no problem.

Our newest endeavor is setting up a side business for my husband. He is an extremely talented artist. He has set up an Etsy site which you can view here http://www.etsy.co/shop/p127design
Adam plans on creating more generic stuff, but he does great custom montages as well. We are very excited about this!

Well, I hate to keep this so short, but I gotta tend to the kiddos!

Paige

2009-10-30T09:24:00.001-04:00

Let's take a stand!

2009-05-11T09:46:00.001-04:00

From Operation Save America

Using Violence to Silence the Gospel of Christ

Christian leaders from across the nation will gather in Washington, D.C., next Monday, May 18, 2009, to proclaim from the “gates of hell” (The White House, the United States Congress, and the United States Supreme Court) that Jesus Christ is still Lord of this once great nation.

The theology of the Church house will become biography in the streets of Washington, D.C., on Monday, May 18. The enemies of Christ are using “Hate Crimes” to silence our Christian voice.

“Though our President has recently announced that America is no longer a Christian nation; Though our Congress is presently busying itself with “Hate Crimes” legislation, in an attempt to silence the Gospel of Christ and shut the mouths of those who would proclaim it; Though our Supreme Court has sought to decriminalize every aberrant behavior known to man; Though the FBI, BATF, CIA, the Justice Department, et.al., consider us terrorists; the Church of Jesus Christ will no longer remain a silent obsequious “little lamb” that has never found a cause for which it is willing to die.” Rev. Flip Benham, Director of Operation Save America.

We cannot and will not allow this satanic attack on the Word of God (Hate Crimes Bill) to go unchallenged. We will encourage our United States Senators to stand with Jesus, the Church of Jesus Christ, our Pilgrim Forefathers, and our Founding Fathers and oppose this foul piece of legislation. It was birthed in the very pit of hell. HR 1913, the House version of the “Hate Crimes” bill, was passed by a 249 -175 vote. It is now coming for a vote in the Senate as S.909. President Obama wants to sign this into law before Memorial Day.

Our children will suffer greatly if we do not stand! Yes, they will spend years in jail for speaking from the same Bible that we are able to speak freely from today. Is there not a cause?

“If you will not fight for the right when you can easily win without bloodshed. If you will not fight when your victory shall be sure and not too costly. You may come to a moment when you will have to fight with all odds against you and only a precarious chance for survival. There may be a worse case. You may have to fight when there is no chance of victory, because it is better to perish than to live as slaves.” Winston Churchill

What: Gospel Proclamation

Where: Washington, D.C. (White House, Capitol, Supreme Court)

When: Monday morning, May 18, 2009

Time: 11:00 AM

Web: Operationsaveamerica.org

Contact: Dr. Pat McEwen (321) 431-3962 or (321)726-0444

Perfect timing

2009-02-18T20:59:00.002-05:00

God has a way with timing doesn't He? If you read the previous blog, you will see the challenges I have been facing the past 4 or 5 months. But He has strengthened me and given me peace...and for good reason. We found out last week that God has indeed blessed us with another child! And you know what's even better? My heart is filled with joy! God's timing is perfect and His ways are perfect! I am so thankful.

A season of stretching

2009-01-13T17:49:00.002-05:00

It has been a long time since I have posted anything, much less something that was really weighing on my heart. You see, the last few months have been emotionally and spiritually hard on me. God was (and is) really stretching me. Why, you ask?
God has convicted us about our taking control of when and how many children we want. We never used the pill or other abortaficient kinds, but even when we trying "natural family planning", was still putting our control on something He wanted control of. We allow God to access every other area of our lives, except that one. See, God loves children and commands us to be fruitful and multiply. He wants Godly offspring. Only since the last century or so has this been an issue. A hundred years ago, many families were large. I cant remember the exact year, but it was the late 1800's or early 1900's that the average family had 11 people...that's 9 children! I am around many large families that have given this area of their lives to God, and let me tell you...the kids are so great to be around! It's not that I even mind having a large family...I love them...My worry is how fast they will come!
But you know, this is what God has called me to. Some are called to be missionaries. Some to other ministries. But this is mine.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 says:
19Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.

This decision was not easy. Obeying God is not easy. There have been many tears, and there will probably be more. But you know what else? There is peace. The peace of knowing that we are doing what God wants us to do. And I know that the rewards are great! Children are a blessing and a reward from Him! It easy to receive blessings in so many other areas of our lives, but this one is hard because its a lot of work and a lot of sacrifice on our part. But think of it this way, every time you conceive, you are carrying a child that is an image-bearer of God Almighty! A child who has the potential to carry the Gospel to places we can never go! More of His glory can fill the earth!

One book that is jam-packed with scripture and very good points is a book called "Do You Dare Trust God for Your Family Size? : Positively Yes!" by Hanna E. Farwell.

I am not saying I am 100% there. God has been especially gracious these past few months. It's so easy to say that I trust God or that "I surrender all"...but the past little while, it's been harder to say that and remain honest before God. He see us and knows our inadequacies. We are human and he understands that...but he also expects obedience to His word.

So this is where I am at. Pray for me. I love children, and I do desire them. But I also know that the work God has cut out for me will not be easy. But I trust that my faith will grow, my character will be refined, and God can receive more glory from my life.
Love you all!

Persecution Coming?

2008-11-01T12:21:00.003-04:00

“Will there be persecution coming to the Church in America?” This was the question posed to a panel at the Revival Conference in Atlanta,Ga this past October. Paul Washer shown here answers the question. It's sobering.

http://downloads7.sermonindexmedia3.com/17/SID17663.wmv

Working on my "Feminine Appeal"

2008-10-27T11:36:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to share a little bit on a book that me, my sister, and a friend of mine are working though called "Feminine Appeal:Seven Virtues of a Godly Wife and Mother" by Carolyn Mahaney. We meet once a week and talk about the chapter we read that week and share our areas of weakness and some strengths as well. This book has challenged me. To some degree, I knew the importance of being a good wife and mom. But as the author challenges us from the Word of God using Titus 2:3-5
3Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. 4Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, 5to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.
I quickly realized...I don't know much. So many times I don't really grasp that this calling of being a wife and mom IS a HIGH calling. Even though I don't consider myself to be close to being a Feminist...Feminist thinking has crept into our culture so much...even church, that as a whole... women have neglected their highest calling. One thing she points out is since the Feminist Movement and women started leaving the homes, there seems to be a rise in the unhappiness that women feel. To tell it plainly, women are more unhappy nowbecause they are assuming a role they should not, and are neglecting the role that God designed them for. Why is it so many women are dealing with depression and running to self-help books and conferences. Could this be part of it? I think so.Yes, they may be married and may even have children, but are they really laying down their lives for their family? In Genesis it talks about how Eve was created to be the Adam's help meet. Did you read that? That was one of the main reason's God created us, to help our husbands. Is our daily life reflecting that. After God, are they truly the next priority?
Then there is the high, and at times difficult calling to Motherhood. As a new mom, Carolyn Mahaney's insights have been amazing to me. They have helped so much.
One aspect that I know Adam really appreciates is being a manager of the home. By nature, I do not love to clean. I like things to be clean, but I am not a huge neat freak. But things are changing. I realize it's very important to my husband, but also, it's a good testimony. Until I read her chapter on being a keeper of the home, I didn't realize the impact of having a god-honoring home. So I went to the library and got some books on cleaning and organizing. It's been a good help.
I could go on and on, but I just wanted to share with you some things I am learning. I think all of us have been nicely challenged by this book. I highly recommend it. You will be a better person, a better woman of God if you obey what God says.

Cute, Modest clothes

2008-10-07T21:08:00.003-04:00

So I found out about this woman, whom I think is a Christian, and she makes really cute and MODEST clothes. Her stuff is a little more than what I would prefer to pay, but she has some really cute items on her site. I just thought I would post her site cause it's always better to do business with people who are using their gifts in a God-honoring way!

http://www.christa-taylor.com/

Reality Check

2008-09-30T17:12:00.003-04:00

I have a sickening feeling in my stomach. I went over to the Voice of the Martyr's website and I really began to get a reality check. I take it for granted so many times the freedom we have here. Go to the website and read the stories of what other Christian's are going through for the Cause and Glory of Christ. My heart goes out to them and their families. But what is interesting is that while my heart may break for our fellow brother's and sister's in Christ, I'm sure many of them are broken about the spiritual condition of their persecutor...as God is also.
The thing is, while we enjoy our freedom here in America, it can be stripped away from us in an instant. We tell God so many times that we would do anything for Him. Would we risk being horribly tormented, rather than our Bibles be burned? Suppose some terrorist with a machete said to deny Christ or they would kill our children, could we stand for Christ? I just don't know. I do believe that if it came down to it, if our hearts are truly set on the Lord, some how, some way, He would give us a supernatural strength to stand. Thankfully, times like that are not here, right now. We may face what seems like persecution to us, but nothing compared to what many others across the world face. Some times it's hard to truly stand with lost family members or lost friends.
I am speaking to myself when I say we really need to start living in a way that is less selfish and self-glorifying. Stop being so concerned about materialism and being so self absorbed. We cannot live this Christian life in a half-hearted way. It is ALL or NOTHING.
My challenge to you (and myself):
1.Dig deeper in the Word of God and make time to pray everyday.
2.Pray for the persecuted church- read these stories and it's a sure way to get your eyes off of yourself.
3.Pray about what you can do to help or encourage these saints who are standing for Christ in other countries. The website will give you suggestions.
4.Every day we are given opportunities. Lift up Christ every chance you get. We may not have these freedoms forever. Use them while you can. That way, if those freedoms are ever stripped away, you will be able to stand no matter what. Even if you are threatened with horrible things, by God's grace you will continue to be able to stand your ground.

Ephesians 6:13 (New International Version)

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

http://www.persecution.com/

A MUST READ Article

2008-09-29T16:52:00.002-04:00

Hey everybody! Just wanted to share this with you. God has truly gifted my husband to write some really thought-provoking and God-honoring articles. I want to encourage you to read this article below. In case you didn't know, you can check out his blog on the right side of the screen ("If My People").
Be challenged by what you read.
http://ifmypeople.wordpress.com/

A MUST SEE movie!

2008-09-27T16:19:00.002-04:00

I'm sure many of you have heard of the movie Fireproof. My sweetie and I went to see it on our date night last night. Everyone needs to go see this movie...especially couples. It's one you can totally leave the theater with a wonderful feeling, and being better having seen it. If your marriage is struggling, this movie offers hope. If your marriage is great, this movie can likely enhance it. For many reasons it truly is set apart from any Hollywood production, one being that to truly love your spouse, Christ must be the center. Go see it! NOW!

Here is the trailer

I'm Back!

2008-09-24T11:18:00.004-04:00

Hey everyone! It's been a while, huh? As you can see, I'm not the best blogger out there! Not too consistent! We have been busy around here. Last week we were at the Isle of Palms and it was wonderful! The weather was great. The time with family was great. All the food was great. The date with my hubby was great. I didn't want to come home! I was telling my sister that anytime I have to leave from a vacation, I seriously get that homesick feeling. I don't know why, but I do. She said she gets it too. Is that just us or do you experience that too?
We came home Thursday and my sweetie still had a few days off so he began demolishing our back porch so that we can tun it into a deck. I think it will be so nice when it gets finished.
Sunday we had church in Charlotte. Our church along with some people from another church got together to take a stand when Mr. Obama came to town. People, this is a scary guy. His "followers"are scary too. But we must trust God. He is in control. No matter what comes, trust Him! Our family left around 2, but some hung around until 4. Here is a video of what happened after we left.

I don't know what lies ahead for us as a nation. Now more than ever, I feel I must have time with God daily. Now more than ever I feel compelled to read about the persecuted church, about martyrs. I want to finish this race well. I want to stand strong. I want to be an example to my baby girl, and show what it really means to have faith in Christ. I want to support my husband in the stand that he takes. I want him to know he must stand for Christ at all costs. That is a VERY hard thing to think about. But my comfort is in knowing that this is not our home. It won't be long. But knowing it won't be long makes us realize the great urgency in making sure we have done all we can to show Christ to lost family and friends. Oh how I wish we could MAKE them become children of God! Lord break our hearts!

Recipe of the week

2008-08-11T13:53:00.002-04:00

A good one I found on the label of a can of Mexican Festival Rotel (chili's and diced tomatoes)

Rotel Fiesta Chicken

1/4 cup all purpose flour

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

6 boneless, skinless

chicken breast halves

1 tbsp. vegetable oil

2 cans Mexican festival rotel, undrained

4 green onions, sliced

1 can (2 1/4 oz) sliced ripe olives, drained sour cream (optional) shredded cheddar cheese (optional) cilantro (optional)

Combine first 3 ingredients. Roll chicken in flour mixture. Brown chicken in oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tomatoes, green onions and olives. Heat to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes or until sauce has thickened. Serve chicken mixture over yellow rice and top with sour cream cheese and cilantro if you want.

Makes 6 servings.

I love saving MONEY!

2008-08-09T10:13:00.002-04:00

I think I can attribute this quality to my thrifty sister who taught me a thing or two about bargain shopping. I gotta tell ya...for me it's really fun! I love finding ways to cut down on costs and still not feel like I'm missing out on too much. The more bang for the buck- the better! So I am going to pass along some really great websites for saving money.
If you have a baby go to www.diapers.com. On your very first order you get $10 off (plug in PAIG5972 so they know I referred you and I get $1 credit each time you order). Plus if you spend over $49 you get free shipping! I was able to get 268 PAMPERS' diapers for $43! And it was at my house in 2 or 3 days! Very cool!
The next site my husband heard about somewhere and I love it! It's http://www.couponmom.com/
It's so great. You get emails once a week of coupons that you can print from your computer. There are also a ton of money-saving tips on there as well. One of their emails told me about a place called www.restaurant.com. You can get gift certificates to restaurants in your area that you can print from home for cheap. Couponmom.com will even send you a promotional code to save even more at this site too! Let me give you an example. Yesterday coupon mom sent me a one day promotion that restaurant.com was taking 80% off of their normally low price. So I ended up getting 3 NICE gift certificates for a TOTAL of $6!!! One to Dressler's restaurant worth $25, one to Max's Alley, and one to Fuji San (japanese). You have to get a certain amount at these restaurants (say $40 or $50 before you get $25 off...but thats a $40 or $50 meal for $15 or $20! Great for date nights!
If you have any great money saving ideas or sites then pass 'em along!

Recipe of the week

2008-08-01T22:33:00.001-04:00

Granddaddy Lawrence’s Banana Bread

2 cups plain flour 1 cup sugar

1 tsp. soda ½ tsp. salt

Mix dry ingredients together. Make a hole in the center and add:

½ cup oil 2 eggs

2 very ripe bananas ½ cup milk

1 tsp. lemon juice ½ cup nuts

Blend it all together. Bake in greased loaf pan at 325° for 1 ¼ hour.

A photoshoot with Daddy

2008-07-30T08:41:00.004-04:00

Last night Adam was taking tons of pictures of Olivia (he made them kinda artsy in Photoshop). He surprised me with the cutest screensaver of her...here are a few of the shots. Enjoy!

She is MAD!

Recipe of the week

2008-07-25T16:54:00.003-04:00

I know its not Thanksgiving or Christmastime yet...but I am actually cooking a turkey as I write this. I figured it was something that I could invest a day in cooking and have dinner for about 3 or 4 days with! I made it back in December for some young folks that we hang out with. This was my first turkey and I can't take the credit...but it was soo good. The credit goes to Tyler Florence on the Food network. It was so tasty...

Maple-Roasted Turkey with Sage Butter

Recipe courtesy Tyler Florence

1 sticks unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1/4 bunch fresh sage, finely chopped
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 (12 to 14-pound) fresh turkey, giblets, neck, and liver discarded
8 strips bacon
1/2 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons hot water

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and remove the top rack of the oven.

Put the butter and sage in a mixing bowl and mash with a fork or spoon until the sage is well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper.

Rinse the bird thoroughly inside and out with cold water, and pat dry with paper towels. Sprinkle the cavity and skin liberally with salt and pepper. Using your fingers, gently lift the skin from the turkey breast and slip the remaining seasoned butter under, massaging the breast meat as you go. Truss the bird by crossing the legs over one another and tying with a piece of kitchen twine. Shingle the bacon strips over the breast so it's totally covered. Put the turkey on a rack in a large roasting pan, cover the turkey with aluminium foil, and place in the oven.

In a small bowl, stir the maple syrup with 2 tablespoons of hot water to thin. Roast the turkey for 2 hours, basting with the maple glaze every 30 minutes. Continue cooking until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the meaty part of the thigh registers 170 degrees F. The thigh juices will run clear when pricked with a knife, about 3 hours total (15 minutes per pound). About 1/2 hour before you think the turkey is done, remove the foil so that it can brown. When done take the turkey out of the oven and put the roasting pan on the stovetop. Transfer the turkey to a serving tray to rest at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve with Turkey Gravy.

Visit to Great Grandaddy's house

2008-07-25T10:30:00.002-04:00

On Tuesday, Olivia and I visited my granddad's house. You can tell it really made his day!

Liv's first beach trip!

2008-06-27T07:57:00.006-04:00

Here are some picture of Olivia's first trip to the beach! We had a great weekend in Atlantic beach (NC).

Long awaited pics!

2008-06-27T07:45:00.006-04:00

Hey everyone- I know I must have the most boring blog out there! I don't post much and I never had any pictures up. Well no more my friend. Here is my family. Enjoy!

Here's Olivia fresh outta the oven!

Just minutes after the birth, you can tell we are just in awe of everything!

Not lookin' too happy!

I think she's in love with her daddy already!

Adam with his mom, Olivia's Grammy

With Grandpa Lawrence

Adam and my mom...or Nana

1 week old Olivia with her Uncle Charlie and Aunt Beth

With Granpa and Kitsy Tennant

Still in awe!

With Uncle Dustin.

With Aunt Ashlie and Cousin Chase

Watch out!

2008-06-16T09:01:00.003-04:00

I don't know if many of you have heard of the Florida Outpouring. So many Christians are flocking to this but I want you all to check out this link! Adam and I both had a weird feeling when we saw him on TV, but this video is crazy. Listen to the Way of the Master Radio clips to; they are very informative. It's a great online radio program too! I just want you all to be aware.
Florida outpouring

Recipe of the week

2008-06-16T08:58:00.002-04:00

This is one of Adam's favorites.

Lemon Chess Pie

4 eggs
1 2/3 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp. lemon juice
1/3 cup butter
4 tbsp. milk
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon Vinegar
9 " pie crust

Mix all ingredients together and pour into pie crust. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes.
Also good served with whipped cream.

Hope this makes you laugh!

2008-06-16T08:52:00.001-04:00

Recipe of the week

2008-05-23T08:11:00.002-04:00

With this being memorial day weekend and I know you may want to do some grilling- here is a marinade that my father-in-law past down. I know it says its for flank steak, but you can use it on whatever you want. I tried it with London broil and it was fabulous!

Flank steak & marinade

2 lbs. Flank steak
1 cup Soy Sauce
1 cup Pineapple juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup brown sugar
5 Tbsp. Sesame oil
2 Tbsp. McCormick Jerk Seasoning

Marinade meat & chill for 1 hour, up to 8 hours. Cook steak as desired.

Just some thoughts-

2008-05-23T07:37:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone! I can't believe it's Friday again already. I remember talking with my sister before Olivia came along and she told me that after you have a baby, you lose your concept of time. How true that is! My days just seem to run together. I am looking forward to the weekend!
Tomorrow we are headed to Fayetteville to see Adam's mom and then Sunday we head to Greensboro to see his brother Eric before he moves off to Milwaukee. Then back here Sunday so we can hopefully sleep in on Monday.
Yesterday, I heard the news about Steven Curtis Chapman's little girl Maria being killed in an accident. It really broke my heart. I guess that since we are all brothers and sisters in Christ,it really felt like this was someone that I knew. And now that I am a mom, I can't imagine the pain of losing a child. Let's all be sure to lift our brothers and sisters up in prayer. They will need it more than we can know.
Well I better get going! Lots to do today!
Til next time-
Paige

Recipe of the week

2008-05-16T11:23:00.000-04:00

So I love cooking and baking! Once a week I will post some of the gems I have received that has been tried and tested...mainly by my hubby :)...and feel free to pass along some of your good ones to me too! Here's the first one that is a big hit, especially this time of year. Thanks to my friend Tamarie for this one- It is yummy!

Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle

2 lbs. Strawberries - sliced
3/4 angel food cake- cut into squares

1 can Eagle brand milk
8 oz. cream cheese
12 oz. cool whip
1 small box Vanilla instant pudding
3/4 cup water

Cut berries and cake.
Mix Cream cheese & milk to smooth consistency. Add package of vanilla instant pudding and water and mix it. Add cool whip (4 oz, then beat, another 4 oz, beat more,etc).

Spread thin layer of mixture across bottom of bowl. Stack layer of cake, then berries...cream,cake, berries, etc.

She's out of the Bed...

2008-05-16T07:12:00.000-04:00

So last night, we successfully got Olivia out of our bed! I got the Babywise book yesterday and read a little bit in it and just tried to apply a few strategies and it worked. She didn't sleep through the night, but she only woke up once to eat. YAY! This could be the start of something beautiful!
Til next time...

Welcome to my blog!

2008-05-15T14:18:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! Thanks for stoppin' by! I am very new at this whole bloggin' thing, but hopefully you will just get to know me better and see what's going on in my life. I am a relatively new wife(just over a year) and a very new mommy! So I am sure you will see very high and low points. But this is a place I can be real, be myself and share the things that God is doing in my life as well! I hope you are encouraged!

God of this City

2008-05-12T10:22:00.000-04:00