Family Matters

Why is it family stuff can be so hard? Most of you know the situation with my brother and that he doesn't want anything to do with us or my parents. For those of you who don't basically there was a lot said on both sides and it pretty much ended in this really awkward, estranged situation.

It's easier for me because I live in Virginia but my parents live in the same town that he does, so they are reminded quite often of the situation.

Why is it that we can't forgive and move on?

Colossians 3:13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.

My brother and his wife are expecting their first child and although I did not get invited and really haven't talked with them in a few years I still feel compelled to do something. After all he is still my brother and she will be my niece. I worry though that the gift will not be very well received. And, it may make things worse for my parents. It's one of those times I wish I knew the right answer. I may not know the right answer but God does.

Romans 8:28 - And we know that for those who love God, that is, for those who are called according to his purpose, all things are working together for good.

I Peter 5:7 - Turn all your anxiety over to God because he cares for you.

Please pray for me that God would lead and that I would follow his direction in this situation.

Ode to my convertible

We sold my convertible last week. It was the right thing to do, but I have to admit I was sad. I really enjoyed driving it and zipping around town. The good news is I really, really like my new car (AKA the new, old car) (no pics yet sorry!). We purchased a used Honda Pilot and it's so much fun to drive. I have never had anything other then a car as my primary mode of transportation. It's fun sitting up high (it's like a whole new world) and Jarod hooked me up with XM (there are so many choices, how do people do this? I feel like I'm A.D.D. station turner now) and I really enjoy driving it. So, I'm leaving the world of "zipping around" but it's for the best. Cheryl (my mother-n-law) will be happy to know that I have to wear my seat belt now b/c it beeps at me. I know, I know..I should always wear it, but I just forget. Now I have a handy-dandy reminder.

Being a Tunnel

About 6 months ago McLean Bible started an "internet" campus. It sounds strange at first but it's actually really awesome. You can experience the whole service live through your computer. You'd be amazed how many people have moved to this mode of worship. And, our neighbors are going to join us next week which is really great. The webstie has a place for you to take sermor notes, download the sermon and all kinds of cool stuff. Here's the link to the website if you want to check it out: http://www.frontlinedc.com/pages/page.asp?page_id=21944







Anyways, the message last night was about leaving the "getting even" part of life to God and not seeking revenge when others hurt you. Lon said you can either be a tunnel or a wall. It's really straightforward actually. A wall blocks things and a tunnel leads you to something. So, in the spiritual sense, when you're seeking retribution or revenge you're a wall and you are not leading people to Christ. When you give it to God and continue to show His love, you become and tunnel and can lead people to Christ. It's one of those things for me that's easy to talk about but hard to practice. So, my goal is to start actively practicing this and become a tunnel to Christ.

Xterra 10K

We survived..barely! Jarod and I did a really tough 10K this weekend it Richmond. It was full of trail running, rock jumping and hot, hot weather! Here's a link to the race. http://www.sportsbackers.org/jrag_scramble.htm

It took us a little longer then normal, but that's to be expected. We finished it in 1 hour and 14 mins. Not to bad.

We talked our neighbors into going with us, which was really fun. They really enjoyed it and are now catching our running bug! I already signed up for a 10 miler in September. Gotta pick up the training a little bit. :)

Our Small Group

Our small group rocks!!

We've really enjoyed getting to know these couples. When we moved back to DC in the fall we decided joining a small group would be the best way to connect with Christian couples and we were right! They have been a true blessing to us. Most are newly married so it's been fun to say "been there done that." :) Anyways, we've been meeting with them for about 3 months and already we have made lifelong bonds. I'm so grateful that churches have realized the importance of small groups!

Our Small Group

Let me just say our small group rocks!! We are so grateful to God for bringing us into the group.
It's been really awesome getting to know them. When we moved back to DC we decided joining a small group was the best way to get connected again with Christian friends. We joined the group about 3 months ago and it feels like we've know each other much longer then that. Most of us do not have family close by so we've helped each other move and in times of crisis like house flooding. McLean Bible has a great small group program through Frontline. I would recommend joining a small group to anyone!

Here I go....into the wonderful world of blogging. It's a little scary for me because I'm not a big writer, but since most of our family live away it's a good thing for me to start.

Last weekend Jarod and I ran a race with our friends Ken and Susan. The girls ran the 10K and the boys ran the 5K (wimps!.. lol). The race was really tough, but Susan made me stay with it and we finished strong. Here's a link to the race and results:

http://www.herndonfestival.net/

It was very muggy and the course was really hilly. Anyways, I am really proud of Jarod for running with me because I know it's not his favorite thing to do. This weekend we are headed to Richmond to check out our old house ... I dont think anyone has bought it still! God really blessed us in that situation. PTL!! And on the way back we're going to have dinner with one of Jarod's previous employees in Ashland, VA. Well, back to work.