tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933769598492705452024-03-13T04:47:58.918-07:00Bloggin' with the BoyingtonsJillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-44408415254211964442012-03-08T18:42:00.003-08:002012-03-08T19:45:05.355-08:00Oh, Emotions...When will I learn to quit begging for Kyle's work schedule every month! I set myself up every time... hopeful for all days and no weekends... and more times than not, my hope for the ideal schedule is crushed as the words "nights" "weekends" and , worst of all, "TDYs" slap me in the face. Last night was no different... Kyle sheepishly walked into the bed room and proceeded to rub my back, so I knew it wasn't good. I quit listening after the words "Out of town for a month." <br /><br />Nope, Kyle will be out of town for a month...Grrrrreat. Well, at least the Grrrr part is accurate.<br /><br />Yes, I cry just about every time he has to go. It doesn't seem to get any easier no matter how many times he goes out of town. Yes, it could be worse... he could be gone for months or even a year. But my emotions still get the best of me.<br /><br />A lady at work shared something with our department during our prayer time last week... it was about choosing to respond to situations based on God's truth and not based on our emotions. A sign of spiritual maturity is responding based on what is true and not based on how I feel. <br /><br />Not responding based on how I feel...This has been a hard lesson for me. It's something I struggle with, and I think probably something I will always have to fight. When I am mad, I respond in anger, when I am sad, I want pity, when I feel like I deserve better, I seek out to get what I want... "What I deserve."<br /><br />I deserve to be sad and wallow in self pity because Kyle has a crazy work schedule and goes out of town on short notice, right... Right? <br /><br />The truth is that when things don't go my way, it is an opportunity to respond in a way that glorifies God... it's an opportunity to be an example of Christ. I want to live my life in such a way that I look for opportunities to grow in my walk with the Lord and to let Christ shine through me. I've learned that this is not easy! That's why it's so important to respond based on God's Word and not on my emotions. I guarantee you, I will choose myself every time if I make decisions off of how I feel. It's why so many couples can't communicate, why so many people are scarred by hurtful words...why so many marriages end in divorce. We choose to make decisions based off of how we feel and not based off of God's Word... not based off of what is true.<br /><br />I know I will still get sad when Kyle has to go out of town... still cry here and there... it's not the emotion that's wrong.. it's what we choose to do with that emotion.<br /><br />Before I finish, I would like to add as small disclaimer: a little retail therapy never hurt anyone. :)Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-55059469679890536722012-03-06T18:04:00.003-08:002012-03-06T18:39:35.743-08:00Let's try this blog thing again...So, I officially wrote one blog for the entire 2011 year! That's pitiful! I do actually enjoy blogging when I sit down and do it, but that is the problem! Actually sitting down to do it! I have found that it is definitely a discipline.<br /><br />I started a new job back in June of last year with FamilyLife, a marriage and family ministry that seeks to strengthen marriages and families and build them on the foundation of Christ. It has been the greatest blessing for me to work there! The work environment is so encouraging and motivating! On the downside of work things right now, my boss has decide to take another job. While I am so happy for him and excited for him to see how God uses him in hi new role, I am so sad to see him go! He has been such a blessing to work for. For me, this does mean change as far as who my new boss will be and probably some changes in my administrative duties. Admittedly, change is hard for me... I am a planner... I like things to go according to my plan... this was not in my plan! But I know God is good and will provide. Fortunately, my new boss is a really great guy! I know that I will enjoy working with him, but you know, change, even when it's not necessarily bad change, can still take some getting used to. I know God's hand is definitely in all of this!<br /><br />Rewind back to October Of last year... I ran my first half marathon! It was so rewarding to set a challenging goal and meet it! I am planning to do another sometime this year, but I think the half marathon is a far a distance as I will ever shoot for! I just don't think the marathon is for me... actually it boggles my mind that that long of a distance is really for anybody! The time commitment for the half was plenty! <br /><br />Now back to, well, now...<br /><br />Kyle and I have deemed 2012 the "Year of FUN." We are seeing what we can get ourselves into! Not that having kids won't be fun, but we are really wanting to enjoy time together and make the most of it while it's just us! (DISCLAIMER: And it will still be just us for a while!!)<br /><br />We went to St. Louis back in January, and had the best time! We visited the Arch, a beautiful cathedral, had some amazing BBQ, went to the CITY MUSEUM (like being in an adult playgroud created by Dr. Seuss!!!), annnnd had our first experience with Airbnb! <br /><br />Airbnb is a site that you can book on to stay with other people in their homes. Crazy. I know. But it's the year of fun! What a neat experience! We stayed with a couple about our age. Getting to know them was so neat! (We even went to lunch with them one day!)Now, I am not suggesting anyone stay with creepers... the website is very reputable and the people had lots of good reviews! I am saying, let's step out of our little bubbles and be opened minded! I mean, Jesus didn't book a room at the Holiday Inn. He stayed with others. In their homes. And impacted a lot of people with the Gospel that way. Not that there is anything wrong with getting hotels! It just felt so real to chose to engage with other people we didn't know (even just for a few days)and hear about their life. So rewarding!<br /><br />Check out Airbnb... http://www.airbnb.com/<br /><br />Annnd check out the City Museum: the coolest, most unique place I've ever been!... www.citymuseum.org<br /><br />I can't believe it's already March! The year is already flying by!<br /><br />Kyle's 25th birthday is March 31st. We are looking forward to celebrating and cooking out with friends and then can't wait for our family to come up the weekend of his birthday!<br /><br /> <br />I am set to run a 10K in April and then Kyle and I are doing a Warrior Dash in May! The Warrior Dash ...(http://warriordash.com/register2012_arkansas.php#) is a 3.4 mile run with different obstacles sprinkled in throughout the route! Kyle and I are super pumped about it!<br /><br />Let's see if I can double my blog posts this year!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-51631618147226951612011-01-20T16:03:00.000-08:002011-01-20T16:22:58.576-08:00I'm a terrible blogger!I should really keep up with this better! I get side tracked! <br /><br />Kyle and I went on a little adventure last week... we drove to Mt. Magazine, about 2 hours from Little Rock, to hike one of the trails there and camp overnight. <br /><br />After first starting out...Let's just say I'm glad the hike got better. We started the trail at the top of the mountain, so our first couple of miles were made up of slow, careful step down, slippery, snowy rocks. FUN right? <br /><br />A bit farther down the mountain, the good Lord must have heard my prayers, because the terrain straightened out and the snow cleared. <br /><br />The next few miles were better, but I was ready to stop for the night. We found a camp sight on the trail about 4.5 miles in. Since eating tends to be a hobby of mine, making smores,sausage dogs, and baked potatoes was fun. Snuggling by the warm fire with Kyle? FUN! Sleeping in the cold on the ground? EHhhh, not so much. We called it a night at a rousing 7:30 p.m. and toughed out the cold until morning. <br /><br />We heard rumors of bears being in the woods, but, luckily, we managed to avoid seeing any. We hiked the 5.5 miles out the next morning. Boy, was I glad to see that car. <br /><br />As uncomfortable as these kinds of trips can sometimes be, I am thankful for them. It's good for me to live outside of comfort zone for a bit to both be thankful for how I do live and more to experience the greatness of God's creation... to get away from the world and just be in the presence of the Lord. <br /><br />The time Kyle and I spend together is precious. I am thankful for a husband who desires to get away with me, and who wants to experience adventures with me. Yeah, it was cold, but my soul was warmed on this trip. :)Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-49046336891510504622010-08-09T19:20:00.000-07:002010-08-09T19:22:05.179-07:00Roman's 8: 28My friend Angela was taken into surgery last Tuesday night to take her organs. She saved seven people’s lives. That’s seven families that were able to see the love and glory of God. I just know that others will come to know Him through this. Romans 8:28 says “… we can be so sure that EVERY DETAIL in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.”<br /><br />DJ and family are doing quite well. The peace and comfort of God are CLEARLY covering them right now. I was able to speak with her mom yesterday and give her some verses to look at when she wanted. She is definitely clinging to God and His promises right now. It is SO encouraging for me to see her faith in action at a tragic time such as this. Her hope in Christ gives me hope and I know it will give others hope too. She is the light of Jesus right now, and encourages me to be the same.<br /> <br />I also talked with DJ the other day. He was just asking if it was OK to ask “WHY GOD??” I shared the verse and thoughts that you gave to me the other day, Chris, and I think it was a comfort to him knowing that it was OK to run to God with ALL of his emotions. His attitude in light of everything that has happened to him is truly from God. Jesus’ light is shining through him right now. Everyone who comes to visit this family is getting to see the light of Christ, and I am truly thankful and in awe of this. <br /><br />PLEASE continue to pray for this family as they take care of details and then begin the long, hard journey of healing. If the past few days are any indication, God is going to carry this family and continue to cover them in peace and comfort. They will see better days, praise the LORD!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-17531172398908393302010-08-09T18:57:00.000-07:002010-08-09T19:19:55.044-07:00Hard to Understand, but I know God is GoodThis past week has been one of much pain and heartache. It has also been one full of God's grace, love, peace, and comfort.<br /><br />Angela Johnson, a good friend of mine and Kyle's, died Monday after being injured in a motorcycle accident. Angela and her husband, DJ were riding together on their motorcycle when a deer jumped in front of them causing them to wreck. Thankfully, DJ was not seriously hurt. He broke his right arm, and has painful road rash on the left arm. Angela's helmet came off during the wreck causing serious brain damage. She was pronounced brain dead Monday night, and was taken off life support shortly after. <br /><br />I know what is hurting DJ most right now is his broken heart. I have no words to express to him how much my heart aches for him. I know DJ has a hard road ahead, but I know God's love and grace will be with DJ the whole time. I don't know why these things happen... why life can be taken away when it's so young and new. My heart crys out "WHY, LORD??!!?" To be honest, I even get angry. Why is this part of His plan? How will he use this for good? Why now, Lord? So many questions run through my mind... <br /><br />I must lean on what I know is true: That God ways are not my own, and that my thoughts are not his thoughts. That God DOES use ALL things for good. That is grace and mercy are abounding and never ceasing.<br /><br />I know that God showed up last week at the hospital. He was shining through DJ, and through Angela's family. <br /><br />DJ, I know this is the hardest thing you've ever had to go through. But I have seen your faith in Christ, and it makes you strong! I know that you will see better days ahead. Jesus is shining through you right now! <br /><br />It all seems so unreal.... So unbelievable. I never even knew I had that many tears to cry. While all this is so hard for any of us to understand, I know God is good. I know He is faithful. I know He will bring DJ through the valley and use this time in all of our lives as well. <br /><br />Angela, my funny funny, friend. You will be missed greatly. You were a light to everyone you were around. You were always making me laugh, and you DEFINITELY kept me on my toes. You were my first friend in Little Rock. I am so glad I got to know you, even for a short time. Thanks for being my friend and partner when we were both new to Little Rock. You have begun a new journey, and eternal journey. I can't wait to see you again n Our Father's House.Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-25671579812994378832010-08-09T18:56:00.000-07:002010-08-09T18:57:05.532-07:00Thankful for the HeatSome thoughts of mine a week or so ago...<br /><br />Thankful for the heat<br /><br />I don’t know what got into me today, but as I was driving home from work, I thought today might be a good day to go on a run. Now to some of you, this may not seem like a crazy thought to have. But after a movie watching, ice cream eating, “Facebooking” week, this was definitely a wild thought for me. <br />I got home from work, dressed quickly for fear of changing my mind (trust me I’ve done it before) and headed out the door. The heat hit me instantly. In spite of it, I began the trek up the first hill by my apartment. The sweat instantly started to pour. About 2 miles into my run I thought “Man! If it weren’t so hot out here, this would be so much better! I would have a much better run!” I longed for some cool water. I passed a nasty puddle on the way back home and actually thought it would feel good it stick my face in it. That’s how hot I was. No wonder people do crazy things when they are stranded in the desert heat! After 3.3 miles, (this is a feat for me so I will tack on whatever I can!) I made it back to my apartment. I headed straight for the apartment work- out room where the water fountain was. The air conditioned room was instant relief. I gulped what seemed like the best, coolest water I’d had in my life from the water fountain. Let me tell you, Dasani had nothing on this water! I walked in the weight room, sprawled out on the floor (don’t worry, the room was empty!) and let the cool air dry the sweat on my face. In spite of being in what seemed like paradise for a few minutes, do you know what thought came to my head? I thought, “I am so thankful for the heat!” <br />Surprised I thought this, I began to think. I was so thankful for the heat because of how much it made me appreciate the coolness of the air and water once I finished my run. Had my run not been hard, I would not have had nearly the appreciation for the reward. Without the adversity we face in our life, we would have nothing to compare the blessings to. Would we really feel blessed for the good things in our life without the adversity to measure up to it?<br />Suddenly, thanksgiving overflowed from me. James 1:2-3, 12 says “2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 12Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” I thought about all the things in my life going on that I thought of as an inconvenience or hardship. I could be joyful that Kyle has been away from home so much because I can be sure that God is using it to grow me in Him, and because I could better appreciate the time Kyle and I did have together. I recalled how joyous our weekend together was a few weeks ago after he’d been away. I appreciated that my family lived far away because if they lived closer, our time together would not be as sweet, and we would not appreciate seeing each other as much. The times I have experienced true joy and growth in my life have almost always followed the times I have experienced hardship in my life.<br />God quickly refined the lesson he’d taught me the very next day. I went out again for another run. This time, my motivation was not necessarily to do something good for my body, or to thank God for the healthy body he’d given me by taking care of it. Today, my motivation was enduring the heat purely to get the reward I’d experienced the day before. I finished my run, and bee lined straight for the work- out room door. This time, I could not seem to get the code to work. I tried and tried until finally I decided to just head for my apartment. I saw that God does not always promise to immediately reward us the way we think we should be. There is nothing wrong with looking forward to the reward, but if our motivation is solely on the reward and not on persevering to honor and glorify God, we are missing out.<br />Finally, as a believer, I can appreciate the times in my life that produce perseverance because of a reward greater than any found here on earth: “the crown of life God has promised to those who loved him.” <br />I hope not another hot summer day will go by that I am not thankful for the heat.Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-81870284524303612562010-06-29T19:03:00.000-07:002010-06-29T19:12:36.774-07:00The Time Flies!And just like that... another month is GONE! Time doesn't stop for anything does it?! Considering we have to work 40 hour weeks and don't always have the same days off, Kyle and I have still had an enjoyable summer so far! <br /><br />We love our community group! God really blessed us when He put us in this group! We have made some great friends so far. We are thankful for the time we get to spend with them, and are lucky to have the opportunity to get to know some great people! The group has moved into what we call "Casual Summer." We were able to all go to the Arkansas Traveler's Baseball game a couple of weeks ago. It was HOT, but it was a lot of fun! We are looking forward to the other fun activities planned for the rest of the summer! <br /><br />Two very good friends of mine recently were engaged! Amanda McLendon will be getting married to "Mr. Wright" (LOL) on March 5, 2011, and Amanda Beck will marry Drew May on March 26, 2011. TWO weddings in one month! I am honored to be the Matron of Honor in Amanda McLendon's wedding!<br /><br />The Fourth of July is coming up! Unfortunately, Kyle has to be out of town for a whole week, which means no 4th of July plans with him! On a positive note, my parents are driving up to see me! Now, if only Jennifer would come too!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-81299373899255061612010-06-01T20:16:00.000-07:002010-06-01T20:31:03.882-07:00It's been how long?!?So the time can get away from you sooooo fast! I cannot believe I have not blogged in over 4 months. It's seems like this year has gone by way too fast! We are almost half way through it! Quick Recap:<br /><br />February: We were able to visit some of our very best friends: Andrew, Emalee, Brandon, and Jennifer in Birmingham. What a great time we had, getting to hang out with some of our TROY friends! We celebrated Valentine's Day with dinner out at the Bonefish Grill! AMAZING!<br /><br />March: Some of our friends since high school, Ty and Jennifer were married in March! Kyle and I were both in the wedding (Kyle was the Best Man). It was so fun to spend a few days at home with family and friends. <br /><br />April: Not long after being home for the wedding, we returned home again... this time was not so joyous. Kyle's Aunt Nena passed away from liver cancer and liver failure. She was such a fun person to be around. You couldn't be in a bad mood when you were around Nena! We were able, though, to spend time with our nephews, Cade and Cole, which was a lot of fun. It was also a blessing to be home for Easter.<br /><br />May: Kyle worked in St. Louis the end of April through the beginning of May. I hate having to be home without Kyle, but I was able to spend time with new friends, build relationships at work (we went out for Cinco de Mayo!) and just have some time for myself. It was good time for me, but I was sooo glad to see him when he came home, and I am hoping he won't have to leave again anytime soon! <br /> My parents and sister also came to visit in May. We had an awesome time! We visited the Arkansas museum of History, the museum of Discovery, rode the Trolley, and went to some great restaurants. I miss them so much, especially right after they leave!<br /><br />And now it's JUNE!! WOW!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-58122960304005333302010-01-24T19:15:00.000-08:002010-01-24T19:34:24.563-08:00Jesus, the LOVER of MY soul!This past week or so, Christ has really been tugging at my heart stings. He has been speaking to me a lot lately. At church, we have been studying a series entitled "Breathe," which has been awesome! All of the sermons have been center around Psalm 23. I have always overlooked the power in this verse because it has always just seemed to be the verse everyone "just memorized." But the power in this verse is unbelievable! The truth of who God is for us in this verse leaves me in awe and brings me to tears of joy. The promises God brings to each of us in this verse gives me a peace in my heart that I know is Him filling me with His spirit.<br /><br /> The LORD is my shepherd,<br />I shall not want.<br />2 He makes me lie down in green pastures;<br />He leads me beside quiet waters.<br />3 He restores my soul;<br />He guides me in the paths of righteousness<br />For His name’s sake.<br />4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,<br />I fear no evil, for You are with me;<br />Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.<br />5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;<br />You have anointed my head with oil;<br />My cup overflows.<br />6 Surely goodness and loving kindness will follow me all the days of my life,<br />And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.<br /><br />Wow. The Lord is MY shepherd. Do you know how much a shepherd loves, cares for a protects his sheep? God is this for us, and therefore we will want for nothing! He will provide all we need. Verses 2-3 show us the joys and blessing He gives to each of us in life. He wants us to stop and rest and just soak in the gifts He gives us! In verse 4, he promises us that even when we walk through dark times, HE IS WITH US! I love His promises in verse 5. There are three of them<br /><br />1) We can trust Him to provide and protect even in the face of what we fear. (You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies)<br /><br />2) We can trust Him to refresh and renew us through His holy spirit. (You have anointed my head with oil)<br /><br />3) We can trust Him to give us blessing upon blessing more than we deserve. ( My cup overflows).<br /><br />And lastly, in verse six He promises us that we will be pursued by His steadfast love for life, and that after this life, we will be with HIM and at HOME forever!<br /><br /><br />WOW! These are PROMISES! Not just maybes! This is the TRUTH from God! This gives me an overwhelming peace, and I hope it gives the same to you...Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-81469592059681141622010-01-24T19:00:00.000-08:002010-01-24T19:15:20.558-08:00Sorry it's been so long!So I know I have not "blogged" in a while! Kyle and I have been pretty busy these last few weeks, which is a good thing! <br /><br />We have been going to a community group at church together every Tuesday at Fellowship Bible Church. It's been great to connect with other believers. The class is great. Right now, we are studying Eclesiastes. We have been talking about the world and how there is nothing in it that can satisfy us. "The Teacher" in Eclesiastes comes to the conclusion that only something outside of ourselves (GOD) can truly satisfy our longings for real joy, contentment, and meaning. This man had it all.... rich, many wives, wiser than the most wise, beautiful... you name it he had it or experienced it. And even He, a man with the whole world at His fingertips, came to the conclusion that ONLY GOD CAN SATISFY! How reassuring to know that He is all we need! I wish we could all understand this all of the time! Why do we all sooooo often turn to what is in ourselves or of the world for peace, joy and satisfaction? God tells us clearly that this longing can only be satisfied in Jesus. Period.<br /><br />Also, I am going to an all women bible study called "After the Boxes are Unpacked!" How perfect for me! It's a study designed specifically for women who are new to Little Rock! It will be nice to spend time with girls who are experiencing the same things I am!<br /><br />Three weeks in, my job is going well! There is lots to learn, but it's all pretty easy! The people are all nice and the atmosphere is very laid back! I LOVE being able to wear jeans to work!!!<br /><br />Kyle went out of town for his job last week, but made it back safely! He is still really liking what he is doing!<br /><br />We can't wait to come home for a visit! We are coming in March for our good friends' wedding. Since we are both in it, there will be a lot going on, but hopefully we will get a chance to stop by and see everyone!!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-38507704163779839582010-01-04T18:02:00.000-08:002010-01-04T18:13:28.207-08:00New Year, New Job!!!I started my job today at Washington Products and Services! So far, so good! I am doing lots of administrative work including filing and organizing paperwork. Sounds silly... but I really like doing that kind of stuff so it's right up my alley! The people I am working with all seem really nice, and I am excited to get to know them better! <br /><br />God really has blessed me, and I thank Him for knowing my gifts and my heart and putting me in a job I will like doing and not be stressed out about! He really does look out for each one of our needs!<br /><br />I am looking forward to getting settled in to the job more!!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-41672793856324912732010-01-01T14:08:00.000-08:002010-01-01T14:20:14.482-08:00Ringing in ANOTHER New Year! 2010 already?!?I cannot believe another year has already come and gone so quickly! 2009 was a big year for me: graduating, getting married, moving to Little Rock! Whew! While 2010 may not be filled with quite as many milestones, I am hoping that it will be a great one filled with God's blessings.<br /><br />Beginning a new year is a great time to think about the things that we want to leave behind and the things we want to pursue. I have been thinking, "What bad habits and sinful way of mine need to be shed?? What are some things I want to challenge myself to be better at?" Like Jesus says "Behold, the old is gone and the new has come." This year, I want to pursue knowing God more. I want to get connected with a community of believers that will push me toward Him. I want to be more active; Kyle and I are running a 5K in a few weeks and are hoping to maybe do one every month. They tend to get a little costly so well see how that goes!<br /><br />Kyle and I had a great Christmas! We were so thankful to be able to get to visit both our families for a whole week! It was a really fun Christmas filled with lots of great memories!<br /><br />It's a NEW YEAR! Before we know it, it will be 2011, so let make the most of this one and start and finish it off right!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-81522770027153846572009-12-02T19:19:00.000-08:002009-12-02T19:31:23.418-08:00Thanksgiving: a wonderful way to begin the holiday season!The holiday season is off to great start!<br /><br />My parents and Jennifer came up for Thanksgiving, and we all had a blast! Thanksgiving dinner was a success! It was nice for Kyle and I to celebrate our first Thanksgiving together in our new home with some of our family. God has given me so much to be thankful for, that's for sure.<br /><br />I got to take Mom, Dad, and Jennifer to Hot Springs, AR, to see Bath House row. We did a little shopping while there too. Needless to say, me Jenn and Mom loved that part, but Dad was less than excited. He was itching to back and watch the Alabama/ Auburn game!! <br /><br />Jennifer is coming back up here in about a week and half, and I am super excited about that. More fun sister time, which means more shopping! (Sorry Dad!)<br /><br />I have not started my job yet. They have to run a background check before I can begin, and the process usually takes about 2 weeks. If all goes well, I should start right after Christmas. It's definitely a blessing to not have to job hunt during the holiday season, but get to spend the holidays not working!<br /><br />Christmas is just around the corner, and I am having a blast celebrating my first Christmas with Kyle! We decorated our first tree together a couple of days ago! Now, we are busy buying Christmas presents, and looking forward to a few Christmas parties on the calendar. I am attending a cookie exchange next week, and have been practicing different type of cookies to decide which to make for the party. Kyle definitely has not been complaining!! :)<br /><br />Both Kyle and I have been a bit under the weather, so we are anxious to leave the colds behind!<br /><br />Most of you I will be seeing soon! Can't wait! Merry Christmas!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-17408612343730682982009-12-02T19:08:00.000-08:002009-12-02T19:19:20.941-08:00Being Content in Christ AloneIn our community group on Tuesday we talked on the subject of being content only in Christ. Most of us answer yes, but then when we really get down to it, it's probably because we like where God has us. We are comfortable in our lives. The group challenged me to think, "Would I be content in Christ if my circumstances were less than desirable?" I think this is a question we should all constantly be asking ourselves. We serve a mighty God who loves us more than we can ever know... a God who ALWAYS has our best interest in mind...a God who knows what's best for us even if it means going through a tough time to show us. God uses all things for good- even the times of suffering and hardship.<br /><br />In Romans, it says to "rejoice in our sufferings because suffering produces perseverance... and perseverance hope." This hope in Jesus is ultimately our motivation for everything we do. We this hope to keep moving.<br /><br />It's during these hard times that I believe God shapes us the most.It's how we respond in the hard times that truly answer the question "Am I content in Christ alone?" Sometimes, the hard times are tragic; other times, the hard times are just a bit frustrating. No matter the hardship, let's ask ourselves, "What is God trying to teach me,and how will I respond?"Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-38902053972839038032009-11-19T16:03:00.000-08:002009-11-19T16:09:18.834-08:00More Pics from Lake Catherine!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwXdeCCGTnI/AAAAAAAAADo/M9DbwB9j_iU/s1600/DSC_0133.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwXdeCCGTnI/AAAAAAAAADo/M9DbwB9j_iU/s320/DSC_0133.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405970435739635314" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwXdd68FxmI/AAAAAAAAADg/ocr9f9mfsu8/s1600/DSC_0124.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwXdd68FxmI/AAAAAAAAADg/ocr9f9mfsu8/s320/DSC_0124.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405970433835386466" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwXdddbAZlI/AAAAAAAAADY/IdPnwnMPZNY/s1600/DSC_0103.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwXdddbAZlI/AAAAAAAAADY/IdPnwnMPZNY/s320/DSC_0103.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405970425911993938" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwXddMzo-sI/AAAAAAAAADQ/P0gabbD8JPQ/s1600/DSC_0035.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwXddMzo-sI/AAAAAAAAADQ/P0gabbD8JPQ/s320/DSC_0035.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405970421451913922" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwXdcxnJAyI/AAAAAAAAADI/V6RY3DcCCAA/s1600/DSC_0065.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwXdcxnJAyI/AAAAAAAAADI/V6RY3DcCCAA/s320/DSC_0065.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405970414151729954" /></a>Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-87532042815550541302009-11-19T14:51:00.000-08:002009-11-19T16:03:17.054-08:00Our God is an AWESOME GOD!!!Today was a great day! I had an interview with the Small Business Association for an Administrative Supervisor position, and they offered me the job! I am calling her tomorrow to accept! The job really is a great fit for what I want and works well with Kyle's schedule! God really does work in great ways when we are patient and trust Him. <br /><br />This afternoon, Tracy (her husband works with Kyle) went to the Senior Wellness Center http://maumelle.dina.org/departments/seniorsrvs.php to help serve their Thanksgiving meal! It was a such a great experience! It was a great time to get to know Tracy better and get more involved with the community! It is definitely true that we get more out of giving than from getting!<br /><br />Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and I am really excited to see my family! I just love the holiday season! I need to start planning the meal for my very first Thanksgiving!!! Any suggestions!?!?!?Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-83079007643069502982009-11-15T18:28:00.001-08:002009-11-15T18:38:50.096-08:00Sweet Home Troy/ Getting Settled in LRSo I was extremely fortunate to be able to visit Troy for a few days this past week! Jennifer White's lingerie shower was Wednesday and Jenny Dye's baby shower was Thursday so it was the perfect opportunity to get to see everyone!<br /><br />Icing on the cake: my dad drove up to Troy too! I have not seen him or my sister in over a month so it was so great to get to spend some time with them! <br /><br />Being back in Troy made me miss it so much! It was nice to be with all my friend having fun! I am, however, blessed with an awesome life here in Little Rock! We are really liking it more and more everyday!<br /><br />Today was our second community group meeting, and we have already met some really nice people! We really like the church we are going to. It's called Fellowship Bible Church... http://www.fellowshiponline.com/littlerock/index.html Check out this link to see more about where we are going! <br /><br />Fellowship was started by a group of men formerly on staff for Campus Crusades, a college ministry very similar to Campus Outreach. Their teachings are very biblical and challenge us to be more like Jesus. We love it so far!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-33250729620409234122009-11-15T18:18:00.001-08:002009-11-15T18:22:44.291-08:00Pics from Lake Catherine State Park!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwC3SIQW6_I/AAAAAAAAADA/VXkYuXlD0_s/s1600/DSC_0150.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwC3SIQW6_I/AAAAAAAAADA/VXkYuXlD0_s/s320/DSC_0150.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404521074926218226" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwC3RxBN6hI/AAAAAAAAAC4/qt5Q4g8gUnA/s1600/DSC_0153.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwC3RxBN6hI/AAAAAAAAAC4/qt5Q4g8gUnA/s320/DSC_0153.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404521068688697874" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwC3Rk0NWvI/AAAAAAAAACw/Nzoe3EMUso0/s1600/DSC_0160.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwC3Rk0NWvI/AAAAAAAAACw/Nzoe3EMUso0/s320/DSC_0160.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404521065412909810" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwC3RDQLY3I/AAAAAAAAACo/CNlv5YQwZMo/s1600/PB060009.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwC3RDQLY3I/AAAAAAAAACo/CNlv5YQwZMo/s320/PB060009.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404521056403415922" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwC3QjPSIqI/AAAAAAAAACg/w1kGMqfLNwI/s1600/PB060014.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/SwC3QjPSIqI/AAAAAAAAACg/w1kGMqfLNwI/s320/PB060014.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404521047809729186" /></a>Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-73720396183242318832009-11-07T10:24:00.000-08:002009-11-07T10:42:14.407-08:00Lake Catherine State Park; Hot Springs, ArkansasLast night, Kyle and I made a quick trip down to Hot Springs, AR, again to go camping at Lake Catherine State Park. http://www.arkansasstateparks.com/lakecatherine/ <br /><br />When we got there, it was already dark, so we hurried to set up our tent. This didn't take long because we decided it would be a good idea to sleep in a one person tent... a VERY SMALL one person tent to say the least. Getting our sleeping bag laid out didn't take long either because we forgot to bring two! The icing on the cake? No pillows! :) <br /><br />We built a fire and made smores, which we delicious! We were in the tent ready for bed by 9, and by 1 am, we already up again thanks to the cold! By 3:45 am, Kyle decided he'd been in the tent long enough and got out to build a fire. <br /><br />The poor guy got out of the tent and stayed awake the rest of the night so I could sleep in the sleeping bag! I felt terrible! He was so sweet! Needless to say we will be napping this afternoon!<br /><br />We hit the hiking trails pretty early, and the scenery was beautiful! The trail mixed with the fullness of warm autumn leaves and the cool colors of winter. All along the trail were small creeks of crisp blue water running fast down the mountain. The main waterfall flowed into a good size water hope so clear, you could see the sand glistening in the bottom!<br /><br />With nature surrounding us, it was hard not to praise God and look on at his wondrous creation in awe. Look at all he made!!! Look how much detail and love he put into making the leaves that fell above us and the creeks we walked beside. How much more time and love he put into making us, his own children! <br /><br />While I have definitely had some better sleep, I wouldn't have traded the precious time I was able to spend with my husband for anything. The time was definitely a gift from God, and a great opportunity to give Him praise.<br /><br />I will upload pictures soon, but you can also click the link above to see where we were!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-90308732331609622732009-11-01T22:15:00.000-08:002009-11-01T22:20:12.992-08:00Pictures of the new apartment!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/Su56E-qfNVI/AAAAAAAAACY/wxj4Gk7WfLQ/s1600-h/PA280128.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/Su56E-qfNVI/AAAAAAAAACY/wxj4Gk7WfLQ/s320/PA280128.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399387229223073106" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/Su56EuFpj1I/AAAAAAAAACQ/J08aivfKynY/s1600-h/PA280126.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/Su56EuFpj1I/AAAAAAAAACQ/J08aivfKynY/s320/PA280126.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399387224773594962" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/Su56EMRPoOI/AAAAAAAAACI/GCASLRNNsOg/s1600-h/PA280125.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/Su56EMRPoOI/AAAAAAAAACI/GCASLRNNsOg/s320/PA280125.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399387215695421666" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/Su56D9isBiI/AAAAAAAAACA/70232A_tYXs/s1600-h/PA280124.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/Su56D9isBiI/AAAAAAAAACA/70232A_tYXs/s320/PA280124.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399387211742053922" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/Su56BP_wjFI/AAAAAAAAAB4/DGk9fmX7X4I/s1600-h/PA280123.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_pWhpMry5eco/Su56BP_wjFI/AAAAAAAAAB4/DGk9fmX7X4I/s320/PA280123.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399387165156215890" /></a>Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-49231700122840518822009-11-01T17:52:00.000-08:002009-11-01T18:06:23.844-08:00Hot Springs, ArkansasToday, Kyle and I went to Hot Spring, AR. It's about an hour from Little Rock and has the amazing natural hot springs. We visited the National Park there and got to feel the hot springs. VERY HOT!!! The water was about 164 degrees. There is also a place there called Bathhouse Row. The row is all of the old bathhouses from the late 1800s to early 1900s. We got to go in and see what the bathhouses looked like. Two of the bathhouses have even been renovated, and you can still use them! <br /><br />Downtown was awesome! There were lots of neat shops! All downtown there are big hot springs water fountains, and you can buy water jugs to take the water home!<br /><br />We will definitely be going back there sometime! Looks like a great place for a weekend getaway! <br /><br />We went to the Discover Fellowship class at our new church today, and it went well. Next week, we are starting the Discover Life class which is a four week class. After that we will join a community group. We are really excited to get connected with the church!!<br /><br />I will post pics of Hot Springs and also of the apartment SOON!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-49488457690788117472009-10-31T17:48:00.001-07:002009-10-31T17:54:58.760-07:00Dallas... To go or not to go? That is the question.Kyle found out this week that he is going to have to go to Dallas to work for maybe a month. BOO. Luckily, since I do not have a job, I can with him! YAY! We were supposed to leave on Monday, but now plans are on hold while they get paperwork together. UGGGHHH! You just never know with his job! God is definitely teaching my lots of patience right now, and He is teaching me that I cannot always be in control! <br /><br />Hopefully, if he is going to have to go, it will be soon, so we can hopefully be back in Little Rock for Thanksgiving. You can see though, that this is a lot of hopfullys. LOL <br /><br />Today we visited a park called Allsopp Park. We hiked one of the trails, and it was beautiful! Tomorrow we are going to a reception that our new church holds for people that are new to the church and who want to know more about how they can get involved! <br /><br />Pray for Kyle and me during this time of transition. I know God is going to use us here, teach us big things, and grow Kyle and I closer to Him!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-21560799035105124842009-10-29T19:31:00.000-07:002009-10-29T19:48:24.833-07:00The Market Street CinemaSo I found this really cool cinema today in Little Rock. It plays films that aren't in most theaters. I went to see a really good film called Bright Star about John Keats, the poet. Yes, I went by myself, but I must say I enjoy going alone sometimes. There is something peaceful ad rejuvenating about it. I know... I am way too deep:) (but lets not tell my mom... she would still freak out if she knew I went ANYWHERE by myself!)<br /><br />The job hut is back off to a pretty good start. StaffMark, an employment agency here in LR, is helping me look for a job. They sent my resume somewhere today! Well see how it goes.<br /><br />Kyle is still liking his job although he doesn't have much to do there right now. I am sure it will pick up soon though!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-55849630946624943452009-10-28T13:37:00.001-07:002009-10-28T13:43:55.146-07:00Pull Chains... Never thought I would have to buy this stuff!So I officially bought my first pull chain today! (you know, the things you attach to the fan to make it longer) Only I am not good at measuring so I bought a 3 foot long pull chain... Let's just say Kyle and I don't even have to sit up straight to turn the light or fan on! Haha! Convenient huh! I think so...<br /><br />The weather is beautiful today! If only I were an artist... the view from our balcony would be perfect to paint: a calm, serene lake with a background of a hill full of autumn colored trees and a white church steeple sticking just above the tree tops..... I know, it's like a dream right. If you ever want to be reminded of God and his glory, just look outside our apartment window! He truly is the lover of my soul!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-293376959849270545.post-58538613780993289262009-10-27T12:26:00.000-07:002009-10-27T12:31:10.052-07:00My first Turn Down :(Well I applied for a job last week and found out today that I did not get it. Bummer. But that's just the way the cookie crumbles sometimes I guess. I must admit, I am a bit disappointed, but I am still content knowing that God does have a job out there for me. He loves me and has my best interest in mind. I am going to a staffing agency sometime this week, so we will see how that goes.<br /><br />On the bright side, if I don't find a job soon, it will be nice to have the holidays off! :) Things will work out for the best!<br /><br />This Sunday, Kyle and I are going to start going to a Bible Study at the church we have been going to! It will be fun to meet some new people!Jillianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14663526413719021752noreply@blogger.com2