I just read a quote by Randy Alcorn (one of my favorite modern Christian authors), and found it really thought provoking, so I thought I would share it.
"God says, "Hate what is evil; cling to what is good" (Rom. 12:9). This passage presumes we know the difference between good and evil. But in a culture that so often switches the price tags so that what's valuable looks worthless and what's cheap demands a high price, this doesn't come naturally. We must regularly withdraw to Scripture and ask God's Spirit to train our minds and consciences."
So true... May God grant each of us the discernment to know the difference between the valuable and the worthless--the good and the evil.
Blessings,
Melody
Monday, October 11, 2010
Friday, October 1, 2010
Life...with baby. :-)
Life with a baby can be quite challenging. However, it can also be rewarding. At times I am overwhelmed by the amount of things I have to do, and it makes me wonder how my Mom managed with 8 children...of course, by the time she had that many, I was able to help with a lot of the responsibility.
There is a never ending pile of laundry to wash--especially since I use cloth diapers. With feedings around the clock, other tasks tend to pile up, waiting to be worked in to the baby's schedule. Often as I sit and nurse, I look around and see the dust bunnies in the corners, the sink filled with dishes, the floor that needs mopping, and I wonder how I'm to get it all done. But then I look at my sweet Danielle's face, and remember that as long as I care for her and make sure her needs are met, that my day is not wholly wasted.
Danielle is growing quickly, and it seems every day she accomplishes something new. Last week, she started reaching for and grabbing the toys that hang over her play mat. We were both very happy at this feat. :-) Yesterday, she came soooo close to rolling over on her own, but unfortunately, her elbow got in the way due to her sucking on her fist.
She now is aware of things going on around her, and definitely recognizes her Mommy and Daddy. Yesterday, she greeted her Daddy when he came home from work with a big smile, and a laugh or two. She smiles when I talk to her, and coos and kicks happily when I look at her. She definitely loves her parents--and we love her. I do find it funny that when I'm around, she wants me to hold her. Yet when Daddy is around, she is content to lie in front of him and have him talk to her.
I am constantly grateful for the wonderful little swing that my grandmother gave me. Danielle enjoys her swing so much, and will remain happy in it almost indefinitely (until time to be fed or have her diaper changed). The last few nights this week, I began bringing her swing into the kitchen with me when cooking dinner, so that she'll be able to see and talk to me while I'm working. This arrangement has worked out nicely, as she stays happy the whole time I'm cooking, and I can actually get work done without having to stop and cheer her up.
This week, I started a fast pace exercise program called "Walk at Home." It is a DVD with an instructor on it who teaches you how to walk in place, combined with aerobic exercises that you can do while you're walking. With these different combinations, I can exercise the equivalent of jogging a mile in about 14 minutes. You see, I am quite determined to get back into shape and be able to wear my pre-pregnancy clothes again as soon as possible. So, while Baby takes her morning nap, I stand in the living room sweating away (it really is quite the workout!) and burning calories. :-) Hopefully I'll start seeing results soon--results other than sore muscles, that is. :-P
So, between baby care, and trying to clean the house and cook meals in between, I stay very busy. Some days it doesn't all get done. I'm just grateful for a healthy baby and a loving husband who never walks in the door and gets upset with me because there are dishes in the sink, or the laundry didn't get washed, or I didn't manage to make it to the grocery store that day for something he needed. I married a most understanding man. :-) And, for his sake, I do try to always work one thing into my schedule...I always make sure to fix myself up every morning, so that he doesn't have to come home to a sloppy looking wife. I think men can sometimes forgive the mess if they have a well kept, clean looking wife. So, faithfully each morning, I fix my hair and throw that makeup on, and dress neatly so that he won't ever have cause to be ashamed of my appearance. And so far, it seems to be working. ;-)
Life is busy indeed, but the little bundle of joy God added to our family (who is the cause of this busyness) is definitely worth it. I wouldn't trade her for a spotless house or all the money in the world. I love my little blessing, and thank God daily that He bestowed her upon us. I love seeing her smile at me, feel her hand stroke my cheek, getting "baby kisses" (which is basically her placing her open mouth on my cheek), having her clutch on to my shirt, seeing her Daddy totally enamored with her, and knowing that my task of sustaining her life--which began while in the womb--is not yet completed, and that for now, I am her sole source of nourishment. :-)
I have a Supreme God, a loving husband, a beautiful, happy baby, a cozy home. I'm fulfilled as a woman. :-)
"The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed" (Titus 2:3-5).
Blessings,
Melody
There is a never ending pile of laundry to wash--especially since I use cloth diapers. With feedings around the clock, other tasks tend to pile up, waiting to be worked in to the baby's schedule. Often as I sit and nurse, I look around and see the dust bunnies in the corners, the sink filled with dishes, the floor that needs mopping, and I wonder how I'm to get it all done. But then I look at my sweet Danielle's face, and remember that as long as I care for her and make sure her needs are met, that my day is not wholly wasted.
Danielle is growing quickly, and it seems every day she accomplishes something new. Last week, she started reaching for and grabbing the toys that hang over her play mat. We were both very happy at this feat. :-) Yesterday, she came soooo close to rolling over on her own, but unfortunately, her elbow got in the way due to her sucking on her fist.
She now is aware of things going on around her, and definitely recognizes her Mommy and Daddy. Yesterday, she greeted her Daddy when he came home from work with a big smile, and a laugh or two. She smiles when I talk to her, and coos and kicks happily when I look at her. She definitely loves her parents--and we love her. I do find it funny that when I'm around, she wants me to hold her. Yet when Daddy is around, she is content to lie in front of him and have him talk to her.I am constantly grateful for the wonderful little swing that my grandmother gave me. Danielle enjoys her swing so much, and will remain happy in it almost indefinitely (until time to be fed or have her diaper changed). The last few nights this week, I began bringing her swing into the kitchen with me when cooking dinner, so that she'll be able to see and talk to me while I'm working. This arrangement has worked out nicely, as she stays happy the whole time I'm cooking, and I can actually get work done without having to stop and cheer her up.
This week, I started a fast pace exercise program called "Walk at Home." It is a DVD with an instructor on it who teaches you how to walk in place, combined with aerobic exercises that you can do while you're walking. With these different combinations, I can exercise the equivalent of jogging a mile in about 14 minutes. You see, I am quite determined to get back into shape and be able to wear my pre-pregnancy clothes again as soon as possible. So, while Baby takes her morning nap, I stand in the living room sweating away (it really is quite the workout!) and burning calories. :-) Hopefully I'll start seeing results soon--results other than sore muscles, that is. :-P
So, between baby care, and trying to clean the house and cook meals in between, I stay very busy. Some days it doesn't all get done. I'm just grateful for a healthy baby and a loving husband who never walks in the door and gets upset with me because there are dishes in the sink, or the laundry didn't get washed, or I didn't manage to make it to the grocery store that day for something he needed. I married a most understanding man. :-) And, for his sake, I do try to always work one thing into my schedule...I always make sure to fix myself up every morning, so that he doesn't have to come home to a sloppy looking wife. I think men can sometimes forgive the mess if they have a well kept, clean looking wife. So, faithfully each morning, I fix my hair and throw that makeup on, and dress neatly so that he won't ever have cause to be ashamed of my appearance. And so far, it seems to be working. ;-)
Life is busy indeed, but the little bundle of joy God added to our family (who is the cause of this busyness) is definitely worth it. I wouldn't trade her for a spotless house or all the money in the world. I love my little blessing, and thank God daily that He bestowed her upon us. I love seeing her smile at me, feel her hand stroke my cheek, getting "baby kisses" (which is basically her placing her open mouth on my cheek), having her clutch on to my shirt, seeing her Daddy totally enamored with her, and knowing that my task of sustaining her life--which began while in the womb--is not yet completed, and that for now, I am her sole source of nourishment. :-)
I have a Supreme God, a loving husband, a beautiful, happy baby, a cozy home. I'm fulfilled as a woman. :-)
"The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed" (Titus 2:3-5).Blessings,
Melody
Friday, August 20, 2010
The baby has arrived!
Dear all,
Most of you who read this blog have already heard this news. But for those of you who haven't, I am now the mother of a beautiful baby girl named Danielle Grace. She was born on Wednesday morning, June 30th, at 9:22 a.m. after 53 hours of labor. Yes, I know, it was long--and very painful too.
I woke up Monday morning, June 28, at 4:00 a.m. to a contraction. "This is different," I thought. As time went on, the contractions got more intense, until I finally woke my husband at 6:00 a.m. and told him that I was pretty sure I was in labor. I called my midwife and parents a few hours later to inform them. My parents insisted on coming over right away, and took me and Donald out for lunch to Panda Express (at this point, my contractions were not so intense as to keep me from eating, and I needed to keep my strength up). We then went to Costco to get some things we needed, and also so that I could walk around for a while, to try and speed things up. At this point, my contractions were coming about 8 minutes apart.
The midwives arrived that evening, and thus began the long vigil. The contractions were quite painful, but were coming irregularly. Finally, after a long and exhausting night, my midwife told me that I was experiencing Prodromal Labor, and that the baby was posterior. She suggested that I take Benadryl (to help stop/slow down the labor) and try to get some sleep, while she and her assistants went home to get some sleep. I did as she suggested, and woke up 2-3 hours later in full blown active labor (wow, were these contractions even more intense!). I informed my husband that he needed to get the midwives back. They returned, and after 16 more hours of the worst pain I've ever experienced, our little daughter finally made her appearance.
God was so gracious to me during that time, and did indeed give me grace for each contraction. There were many times during those 53 hours, when I was so exhausted that I just knew I couldn't go through another contraction. But when it came, I cried out to God for strength, He gave it, and I somehow got through that one. Christ's words in John 16 are so true: "A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world." And truly, when my wonderful midwife handed Danielle to me for the first time, I started laughing and forgot all about the pain of the last few days as I held my little girl. She was definitely worth it!
Since then, I've spent a lot of time resting and trying to recover from the birth, adjusting to motherhood, feeding my baby, and loving her. While I am more tired than I used to be, I am completely happy, and love my little snuggler. :-)
Anyway...there's a brief update for y'all. I'd write more, but alas, due to having a baby, I'm afraid I don't have much time to sit at a computer. :-P
I've included a few pictures in this post, but for those of you who don't have Facebook, and want to see more, here's a link: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=375725&id=596110155&l=9033e2ec45. Also, here is a link to some photos taken by Photographer Hope Helms when Danielle was just a week old: http://www.hopesphotoblog.com/?p=1046. Enjoy!
Blessings,
Melody
Most of you who read this blog have already heard this news. But for those of you who haven't, I am now the mother of a beautiful baby girl named Danielle Grace. She was born on Wednesday morning, June 30th, at 9:22 a.m. after 53 hours of labor. Yes, I know, it was long--and very painful too.
I woke up Monday morning, June 28, at 4:00 a.m. to a contraction. "This is different," I thought. As time went on, the contractions got more intense, until I finally woke my husband at 6:00 a.m. and told him that I was pretty sure I was in labor. I called my midwife and parents a few hours later to inform them. My parents insisted on coming over right away, and took me and Donald out for lunch to Panda Express (at this point, my contractions were not so intense as to keep me from eating, and I needed to keep my strength up). We then went to Costco to get some things we needed, and also so that I could walk around for a while, to try and speed things up. At this point, my contractions were coming about 8 minutes apart.
The midwives arrived that evening, and thus began the long vigil. The contractions were quite painful, but were coming irregularly. Finally, after a long and exhausting night, my midwife told me that I was experiencing Prodromal Labor, and that the baby was posterior. She suggested that I take Benadryl (to help stop/slow down the labor) and try to get some sleep, while she and her assistants went home to get some sleep. I did as she suggested, and woke up 2-3 hours later in full blown active labor (wow, were these contractions even more intense!). I informed my husband that he needed to get the midwives back. They returned, and after 16 more hours of the worst pain I've ever experienced, our little daughter finally made her appearance.
God was so gracious to me during that time, and did indeed give me grace for each contraction. There were many times during those 53 hours, when I was so exhausted that I just knew I couldn't go through another contraction. But when it came, I cried out to God for strength, He gave it, and I somehow got through that one. Christ's words in John 16 are so true: "A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world." And truly, when my wonderful midwife handed Danielle to me for the first time, I started laughing and forgot all about the pain of the last few days as I held my little girl. She was definitely worth it!
Since then, I've spent a lot of time resting and trying to recover from the birth, adjusting to motherhood, feeding my baby, and loving her. While I am more tired than I used to be, I am completely happy, and love my little snuggler. :-)
Anyway...there's a brief update for y'all. I'd write more, but alas, due to having a baby, I'm afraid I don't have much time to sit at a computer. :-P
I've included a few pictures in this post, but for those of you who don't have Facebook, and want to see more, here's a link: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=375725&id=596110155&l=9033e2ec45. Also, here is a link to some photos taken by Photographer Hope Helms when Danielle was just a week old: http://www.hopesphotoblog.com/?p=1046. Enjoy!
Blessings,
Melody
Monday, April 26, 2010
My life for the last 10 months...
Wow, I cannot believe it has been about 10 months since I last wrote anything for this blog! To all of you who like to read it, I sincerely apologize for my failure to keep you updated on my life. It's not that I've been too busy...it's just that whenever I do sit down to write something, I want to tell everything--not just the basics, and it therefore takes me a long time to write, which discourages me from doing it at all. Silly, huh?
Well, let me try to give a basic rundown of the last 10 months to catch you up on what has been happening in my life.
Last I posted, I was still recovering from a car wreck. Well, I'm happy to report that due to the excellent care given me by my chiropractor, I was almost completely back to normal by my birthday (July 30), and was able to go ice skating with my siblings to celebrate. I continued to see the chiropractor through the end of August, by which time I had recovered so completely that Dr. Hodge told me that my back was stronger than it had been before the accident (I had never fully recovered from a back injury in 2007). While the wreck certainly wasn't something I was happy about, God knew what He was doing. :-)
In a previous post, I mentioned some health problems I had. Well, upon going to a doctor, I was told that while there was something wrong with me, he didn't know what, and as far he could tell, I was a perfectly normal, healthy woman. He then wanted me to come back in a month for some more tests.
However, I never went back to him. Through the story of the woman in Luke 8 who had "spent all her living upon physicians, neither was healed" until she touched the hem of Christ's garment, God convicted me that I had not sought Him for my healing. So, I decided that I would not return to the doctor, but would instead ask the Lord to heal me. Shortly afterward, a homeschooling mother (who used to be a nurse) heard about some of my health problems, and had a long talk with me and told me about some herbs and vitamins I should take to restore balance to my system. I promptly took her advice...
And...
Not only did my energy return and my emotional ups and downs even out, but about 2-3 weeks later, on October 17, 2009, I found out that I was PREGNANT!!!!
Now, Donald and I had been wanting to have a baby, but due to my health at that time, thought it impossible. Nevertheless, during that time after I decided not to return to the doctor, Donald and I began praying together to heal my body. Then, about two weeks before I discovered my blessed condition, we prayed specifically that God would bless us with a child--not knowing I was already pregnant! Before we called, He answered! Isn't God amazing???? :-D
Well, it was rather humorous...because for two weeks there, I had felt WONDERFUL and had so much energy. But, God answered our prayer for a baby, and behold, the energy was no more. In its place came nausea and fatigue. However, I decided it was a good exchange. I would much rather have the fatigue with a baby, than fatigue without a baby. :-P
The nausea stayed with me for a good 13 weeks, before mercifully departing and leaving in its place an intense, almost constant hunger. However, I did discover that the best way to keep the nausea at a minimum was to eat something every 2 hours--thereby never letting my stomach get empty. Once I discovered that that helped, crackers and granola bars found their way into my purse, so that I would never be caught without something to eat.
After finding out that I was pregnant, I guess the next big thing that occurred in my life was mine and Donald's first Christmas together.
It was so much fun getting to decorate my very own house, and I enjoyed every minute of it. Then, God had a special surprise for us: He gave us a White Christmas!
Can you believe it? A White Christmas here in Texas???? It was amazing, and gave Donald and I something special to remember about our first Christmas together as man and wife. :-)
Next on the list of "happenings" is our first wedding anniversary--June 3, 2010. Can you believe that we've been married a year now? I definitely could not.
Well, Donald and I decided to be traditional with this anniversary (although, I don't think we really had a choice in the matter) by getting sick on New Year's Day with the stomach bug (for those of you who don't remember, Donald was sick with the stomach bug on our wedding day and throughout our honeymoon). On our anniversary, we both felt rather weak, but knew that we were mostly over it. So, we headed out to East Texas to spend a few days at the same resort where we spent our honeymoon.
Donald obliged me and took me out to Olive Garden that evening for dinner--despite the fact that we didn't really feel like eating (but I knew that I needed to eat something for the baby's sake, if nothing else). We discovered that while our stomachs were not ready for any of the entrees, their salad really "hit the spot." We decided that after being sick like that, our bodies were just really craving raw veggies...so we consumed an enormous amount of salad that evening. And let me tell you, nothing ever tasted so good. :-)
For just a moment, I would like to take a break from my run down of events, and reflect on my first year of marriage (or rather, on the last 478 days of marriage). I learned so much during that time, that I think it is fitting and proper to state some of it here on my blog. :-)
First of all, let me just say that God knew what He was doing when He gave me Donald for a husband. I am convinced that Donald is the only one on this earth who could have been my "Mr. Right." We are similar in so many ways, yet different in others. And our weaknesses and strengths complement each other's.
Secondly, one of the biggest things I've learned is about Romance. Yes girls, Romance--our favorite subject. :-) But, surprisingly, it is not what you think.
I'm afraid all too often, we girls tend to stereotype romance based on what we've seen in movies or read in books. I mean, what is it that you think of when you think of romance? A man looks at you with adoring eyes, whispering words of love into your ear; A man who surprises you often with roses, chocolate, candlelit dinners, or dazzling gifts of jewelry, etc. And, granted, I used to think the same way. In fact, I remember once while I was courting, one of my sisters told me that she didn't think Donald was very romantic. When she pointed that out, I told her she didn't know what she was talking about. But inwardly, I measured him against this stereotyped ruler, and thought that he might fall a little short in a few aspects. But, my idea of romance could not compare to the romance God had in store for me.
When I first got married, I am ashamed to say that some of my actions prevented me from seeing this romance. "Miss Independent, 'I-can-do-it-myself'" kept getting in the way, blinding me to the truth. Too many times, Donald would offer to help me do something, and I would protest and tell him I didn't need his help. He would then disappear with a hurt look in his eyes. While I was thinking he should be proud he had a wife who could do things for herself, he was hurt and disappointed. For, by rejecting his help, he felt as though I was rejecting him.
After several such incidences, I came to realize that one of the ways he shows his love for me is by DOING things for me. When I rejected his offer of service, in essence, I was rejecting his demonstration of love for me. How foolish can a girl get? Since I started letting him serve me in various ways, I must say that I have become the happiest little housewife possible. Now that I know that is his way of showing he cares about me, I see every little act of service as his way of saying, "I love you."
Thus...while romance can include your husband surprising you with roses, chocolate, or jewelry, that is not all that is involved. True, godly romance is loving each other through thick and thin, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer. It is not merely a passionate, gazing-adoringly-into-his-eyes, showering with gifts kind of love. It is a love that loves through the ordinary and mundane kind of days--Days when you have to pay the bills, go to work, do the laundry, scrub bathrooms, mow the lawn, or weed the garden (none of which sound very romantic).
True romance is working hard every day to earn a living for your family. True romance is being understanding when your wife didn't get your work clothes washed that day because she wasn't feeling well. True romance is holding a bowl in front of your wife when she is giving up the contents of her stomach, and then cleaning up afterward. True romance is calling your wife just to say that you love her, or to ask her out to dinner that night. True romance is voluntarily cooking dinner, cleaning the bathrooms, vacuuming the floors, and doing the dishes so that your tired, pregnant wife can take a break.
True romance is staying up really late disassembling the spare bedroom and putting the baby crib together in order to surprise your wife when she gets up the next morning. True romance is organizing the pantry and the laundry room cabinets to again help your pregnant wife by relieving her of a task. True romance is repainting a spot on the wall that has been bugging your wife, or mowing and weeding the lawn, painting the mail box, and fixing other things around the house. True romance is not just telling your wife she looks pretty when she's all "fixed up" for the day, but when she isn't, and her face is peppered with pregnancy-caused acne. True romance is going on an evening's walk with your wife, just sitting and talking, or driving out into the country to look at stars and marvel in God's creation.
In all these things, and in so many more, my husband daily shows his genuine love for me. Thus, while others may look at Donald and think he is not very romantic because he might not fit the stereotyped romantic image, I look at my husband and see the love pouring out of him as he serves me and others. I think of Christ, and how He did not come to earth to be served, but to serve others, and remember that husbands are instructed to love their wives as Christ loves the church, and am so happy and grateful in knowing that I have a husband who fulfills this command in all his actions towards me.
So, when I hear of other young men showering their sweethearts with gifts that fit the "stereotyped image," I just smile and know that my husband daily gives me something far better and far more priceless than any gem money can buy: his heart of purest and rarest gold. And let me tell you, I would not trade one of those demonstrations of his love for anything money can buy. Donald has given me gifts that cannot be stolen, and will not tarnish or fade away. I thank God so much for the wonderful man He bestowed on this unworthy and undeserving girl, and am fully convinced that I am married to the most romantic and loving man in the entire world! :-)
Anyway...there is my little sermon for the day. :-) Now I will return to the previously broadcasted news schedule. ;-)
On February 2, impatient little me went in to the midwife for a sonogram. There, Donald and I were thrilled to learn that we are the parents of a little GIRL!!! Both of us had really wanted a girl, so were very excited to learn that our wish was to be granted. The name we have chosen for our first daughter is Danielle Grace. "Danielle" means "God is my Judge," and "Grace" means "Unmerited gift or favor." I truly hope that Danielle will always remember the meaning of her name, and early come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ when she realizes that God truly is her judge, that He found her guilty of sin, but pardoned her and gave her unmerited favor through the death of His Son, Jesus Christ.
So, while I am awaiting the arrival of our precious daughter, I have been keeping myself busy with lots of sewing projects. In January, I made curtains for our living room, dining room, and kitchen windows. Then, recently, I have been making a baby quilt for Danielle's room. I finished it last week, and am now working on making matching crib bumpers, a crib bedskirt, and curtains for her room. I have also kept up with my harp studies, and while I will not be taking exams again this June as originally planned (because Danielle is due to arrive mid June), I am learning my exam pieces, hoping to have them mostly learned before the baby arrives, so that it will be easier for me to prepare for the Fall exams.
Then, besides all that, I also go walking for about 30 minutes every day in an attempt to keep myself strong and ready to run the "marathon" of childbirth in June. God has blessed me thus far with good health throughout my pregnancy, and no apparent problems. Little Danielle grows bigger every day (a fact evidenced by my growing belly), and it is one of my
delights now to sit and watch my belly ripple and jump as she "swims" and kicks inside of me. Donald put together a CD of him reading passages from Psalms and Proverbs with Classical/Baroque music in the background for Danielle to listen to. So, every evening, I get out the headphones, and place them at the base of my belly and let her hear her daddy read to her. She must love it because her activity greatly increases when I do that. :-)
So, here we are now almost into May, and I am now 32 weeks pregnant, with only 8 weeks left to go. While I had a great increase of energy in my second trimester, now 4 weeks into my third and final trimester, my energy is decreasing, and I am also dealing with a few other pregnancy related woes (namely, swollen ankles if I stand or sit for too long at a time). However, I am very much anticipating the arrival of my daughter, and cannot wait to see her face to face in just a few weeks.
Donald is really getting excited too. He set up the crib for me the other night, and told me later that he keeps imagining going to the bedroom door and peeking through it to look at his little girl as she sleeps. He's going to make such a wonderful father...and he already adores Danielle even before she's born. It's so cute, really. :-)
This whole pregnancy experience makes me think of Christ's return. For, just as I know neither the day nor the hour when Danielle will arrive, so I do not know when Christ will arrive. However, I do know the general time line based upon the "signs of the times" that God has given us both in pregnancy and regarding His return. Also, just as I so eagerly await the arrival of my little girl, and long to see her face, so I should have that same anticipation regarding Christ's return. Oh the joy that will fill my being when I finally see my baby! But even greater still will be the joy of seeing my crucified and risen Lord returning to claim His bride! The signs of the times are getting clearer every day for those two "happenings." They will both happen soon. Am I ready?
And on that note, I shall close this lengthy epistle, and hope to write again soon. I hope you all are doing well. May the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
Blessings,
Melody
p.s., And for those of you who are wondering, we're getting another addition to the family later this year (besides Danielle). As of Resurrection Sunday (April 4), my brother Richard is now engaged to be married. And I believe I heard the date was set for September 18.
Well, let me try to give a basic rundown of the last 10 months to catch you up on what has been happening in my life.
Last I posted, I was still recovering from a car wreck. Well, I'm happy to report that due to the excellent care given me by my chiropractor, I was almost completely back to normal by my birthday (July 30), and was able to go ice skating with my siblings to celebrate. I continued to see the chiropractor through the end of August, by which time I had recovered so completely that Dr. Hodge told me that my back was stronger than it had been before the accident (I had never fully recovered from a back injury in 2007). While the wreck certainly wasn't something I was happy about, God knew what He was doing. :-)
In a previous post, I mentioned some health problems I had. Well, upon going to a doctor, I was told that while there was something wrong with me, he didn't know what, and as far he could tell, I was a perfectly normal, healthy woman. He then wanted me to come back in a month for some more tests.
However, I never went back to him. Through the story of the woman in Luke 8 who had "spent all her living upon physicians, neither was healed" until she touched the hem of Christ's garment, God convicted me that I had not sought Him for my healing. So, I decided that I would not return to the doctor, but would instead ask the Lord to heal me. Shortly afterward, a homeschooling mother (who used to be a nurse) heard about some of my health problems, and had a long talk with me and told me about some herbs and vitamins I should take to restore balance to my system. I promptly took her advice...
And...
Not only did my energy return and my emotional ups and downs even out, but about 2-3 weeks later, on October 17, 2009, I found out that I was PREGNANT!!!!
Now, Donald and I had been wanting to have a baby, but due to my health at that time, thought it impossible. Nevertheless, during that time after I decided not to return to the doctor, Donald and I began praying together to heal my body. Then, about two weeks before I discovered my blessed condition, we prayed specifically that God would bless us with a child--not knowing I was already pregnant! Before we called, He answered! Isn't God amazing???? :-D
Well, it was rather humorous...because for two weeks there, I had felt WONDERFUL and had so much energy. But, God answered our prayer for a baby, and behold, the energy was no more. In its place came nausea and fatigue. However, I decided it was a good exchange. I would much rather have the fatigue with a baby, than fatigue without a baby. :-P
The nausea stayed with me for a good 13 weeks, before mercifully departing and leaving in its place an intense, almost constant hunger. However, I did discover that the best way to keep the nausea at a minimum was to eat something every 2 hours--thereby never letting my stomach get empty. Once I discovered that that helped, crackers and granola bars found their way into my purse, so that I would never be caught without something to eat.
After finding out that I was pregnant, I guess the next big thing that occurred in my life was mine and Donald's first Christmas together.
It was so much fun getting to decorate my very own house, and I enjoyed every minute of it. Then, God had a special surprise for us: He gave us a White Christmas!
Can you believe it? A White Christmas here in Texas???? It was amazing, and gave Donald and I something special to remember about our first Christmas together as man and wife. :-)Next on the list of "happenings" is our first wedding anniversary--June 3, 2010. Can you believe that we've been married a year now? I definitely could not.
Well, Donald and I decided to be traditional with this anniversary (although, I don't think we really had a choice in the matter) by getting sick on New Year's Day with the stomach bug (for those of you who don't remember, Donald was sick with the stomach bug on our wedding day and throughout our honeymoon). On our anniversary, we both felt rather weak, but knew that we were mostly over it. So, we headed out to East Texas to spend a few days at the same resort where we spent our honeymoon.
Donald obliged me and took me out to Olive Garden that evening for dinner--despite the fact that we didn't really feel like eating (but I knew that I needed to eat something for the baby's sake, if nothing else). We discovered that while our stomachs were not ready for any of the entrees, their salad really "hit the spot." We decided that after being sick like that, our bodies were just really craving raw veggies...so we consumed an enormous amount of salad that evening. And let me tell you, nothing ever tasted so good. :-)For just a moment, I would like to take a break from my run down of events, and reflect on my first year of marriage (or rather, on the last 478 days of marriage). I learned so much during that time, that I think it is fitting and proper to state some of it here on my blog. :-)
First of all, let me just say that God knew what He was doing when He gave me Donald for a husband. I am convinced that Donald is the only one on this earth who could have been my "Mr. Right." We are similar in so many ways, yet different in others. And our weaknesses and strengths complement each other's.
Secondly, one of the biggest things I've learned is about Romance. Yes girls, Romance--our favorite subject. :-) But, surprisingly, it is not what you think.
I'm afraid all too often, we girls tend to stereotype romance based on what we've seen in movies or read in books. I mean, what is it that you think of when you think of romance? A man looks at you with adoring eyes, whispering words of love into your ear; A man who surprises you often with roses, chocolate, candlelit dinners, or dazzling gifts of jewelry, etc. And, granted, I used to think the same way. In fact, I remember once while I was courting, one of my sisters told me that she didn't think Donald was very romantic. When she pointed that out, I told her she didn't know what she was talking about. But inwardly, I measured him against this stereotyped ruler, and thought that he might fall a little short in a few aspects. But, my idea of romance could not compare to the romance God had in store for me.
When I first got married, I am ashamed to say that some of my actions prevented me from seeing this romance. "Miss Independent, 'I-can-do-it-myself'" kept getting in the way, blinding me to the truth. Too many times, Donald would offer to help me do something, and I would protest and tell him I didn't need his help. He would then disappear with a hurt look in his eyes. While I was thinking he should be proud he had a wife who could do things for herself, he was hurt and disappointed. For, by rejecting his help, he felt as though I was rejecting him.
After several such incidences, I came to realize that one of the ways he shows his love for me is by DOING things for me. When I rejected his offer of service, in essence, I was rejecting his demonstration of love for me. How foolish can a girl get? Since I started letting him serve me in various ways, I must say that I have become the happiest little housewife possible. Now that I know that is his way of showing he cares about me, I see every little act of service as his way of saying, "I love you."
Thus...while romance can include your husband surprising you with roses, chocolate, or jewelry, that is not all that is involved. True, godly romance is loving each other through thick and thin, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer. It is not merely a passionate, gazing-adoringly-into-his-eyes, showering with gifts kind of love. It is a love that loves through the ordinary and mundane kind of days--Days when you have to pay the bills, go to work, do the laundry, scrub bathrooms, mow the lawn, or weed the garden (none of which sound very romantic).True romance is working hard every day to earn a living for your family. True romance is being understanding when your wife didn't get your work clothes washed that day because she wasn't feeling well. True romance is holding a bowl in front of your wife when she is giving up the contents of her stomach, and then cleaning up afterward. True romance is calling your wife just to say that you love her, or to ask her out to dinner that night. True romance is voluntarily cooking dinner, cleaning the bathrooms, vacuuming the floors, and doing the dishes so that your tired, pregnant wife can take a break.
True romance is staying up really late disassembling the spare bedroom and putting the baby crib together in order to surprise your wife when she gets up the next morning. True romance is organizing the pantry and the laundry room cabinets to again help your pregnant wife by relieving her of a task. True romance is repainting a spot on the wall that has been bugging your wife, or mowing and weeding the lawn, painting the mail box, and fixing other things around the house. True romance is not just telling your wife she looks pretty when she's all "fixed up" for the day, but when she isn't, and her face is peppered with pregnancy-caused acne. True romance is going on an evening's walk with your wife, just sitting and talking, or driving out into the country to look at stars and marvel in God's creation.
In all these things, and in so many more, my husband daily shows his genuine love for me. Thus, while others may look at Donald and think he is not very romantic because he might not fit the stereotyped romantic image, I look at my husband and see the love pouring out of him as he serves me and others. I think of Christ, and how He did not come to earth to be served, but to serve others, and remember that husbands are instructed to love their wives as Christ loves the church, and am so happy and grateful in knowing that I have a husband who fulfills this command in all his actions towards me.
So, when I hear of other young men showering their sweethearts with gifts that fit the "stereotyped image," I just smile and know that my husband daily gives me something far better and far more priceless than any gem money can buy: his heart of purest and rarest gold. And let me tell you, I would not trade one of those demonstrations of his love for anything money can buy. Donald has given me gifts that cannot be stolen, and will not tarnish or fade away. I thank God so much for the wonderful man He bestowed on this unworthy and undeserving girl, and am fully convinced that I am married to the most romantic and loving man in the entire world! :-)
Anyway...there is my little sermon for the day. :-) Now I will return to the previously broadcasted news schedule. ;-)
On February 2, impatient little me went in to the midwife for a sonogram. There, Donald and I were thrilled to learn that we are the parents of a little GIRL!!! Both of us had really wanted a girl, so were very excited to learn that our wish was to be granted. The name we have chosen for our first daughter is Danielle Grace. "Danielle" means "God is my Judge," and "Grace" means "Unmerited gift or favor." I truly hope that Danielle will always remember the meaning of her name, and early come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ when she realizes that God truly is her judge, that He found her guilty of sin, but pardoned her and gave her unmerited favor through the death of His Son, Jesus Christ.
So, while I am awaiting the arrival of our precious daughter, I have been keeping myself busy with lots of sewing projects. In January, I made curtains for our living room, dining room, and kitchen windows. Then, recently, I have been making a baby quilt for Danielle's room. I finished it last week, and am now working on making matching crib bumpers, a crib bedskirt, and curtains for her room. I have also kept up with my harp studies, and while I will not be taking exams again this June as originally planned (because Danielle is due to arrive mid June), I am learning my exam pieces, hoping to have them mostly learned before the baby arrives, so that it will be easier for me to prepare for the Fall exams.Then, besides all that, I also go walking for about 30 minutes every day in an attempt to keep myself strong and ready to run the "marathon" of childbirth in June. God has blessed me thus far with good health throughout my pregnancy, and no apparent problems. Little Danielle grows bigger every day (a fact evidenced by my growing belly), and it is one of my
delights now to sit and watch my belly ripple and jump as she "swims" and kicks inside of me. Donald put together a CD of him reading passages from Psalms and Proverbs with Classical/Baroque music in the background for Danielle to listen to. So, every evening, I get out the headphones, and place them at the base of my belly and let her hear her daddy read to her. She must love it because her activity greatly increases when I do that. :-)So, here we are now almost into May, and I am now 32 weeks pregnant, with only 8 weeks left to go. While I had a great increase of energy in my second trimester, now 4 weeks into my third and final trimester, my energy is decreasing, and I am also dealing with a few other pregnancy related woes (namely, swollen ankles if I stand or sit for too long at a time). However, I am very much anticipating the arrival of my daughter, and cannot wait to see her face to face in just a few weeks.
Donald is really getting excited too. He set up the crib for me the other night, and told me later that he keeps imagining going to the bedroom door and peeking through it to look at his little girl as she sleeps. He's going to make such a wonderful father...and he already adores Danielle even before she's born. It's so cute, really. :-)This whole pregnancy experience makes me think of Christ's return. For, just as I know neither the day nor the hour when Danielle will arrive, so I do not know when Christ will arrive. However, I do know the general time line based upon the "signs of the times" that God has given us both in pregnancy and regarding His return. Also, just as I so eagerly await the arrival of my little girl, and long to see her face, so I should have that same anticipation regarding Christ's return. Oh the joy that will fill my being when I finally see my baby! But even greater still will be the joy of seeing my crucified and risen Lord returning to claim His bride! The signs of the times are getting clearer every day for those two "happenings." They will both happen soon. Am I ready?
And on that note, I shall close this lengthy epistle, and hope to write again soon. I hope you all are doing well. May the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
Blessings,
Melody
p.s., And for those of you who are wondering, we're getting another addition to the family later this year (besides Danielle). As of Resurrection Sunday (April 4), my brother Richard is now engaged to be married. And I believe I heard the date was set for September 18.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Harp Exam!
Just a quick note to let you all know that I passed my Grade 6 harp exam with Merit! As poorly as I did in the exam, that surprised me. Not that I didn't know my stuff...it was just that I was sick and was also so nervous that my hands would not stop shaking. But, I remembered the advice of many teachers, and just kept plodding through, and did not stop. :-)
God is gracious! :-D
Due to the advice of my very wise and thoughtful teacher--Miss Anna Knight, I will not be taking exams this fall. After attending a WONDERFUL harp masterclass, we both agreed that it would be advisable for me to put exams aside for a while, and focus more on technique. This is good news for many reasons, but the main ones that are coming to mind right now, are the facts that (1) I do not know how long it will take me to fully recover from that car accident, and (2) this will allow Donald to have a stress-free wife for a while. :-)
Anyway, just thought I'd post that right quick. Now my back is complaining from my sitting at the computer to write this, so I shall bid you adieu until next time, and go back to my comfy chair and my book. :-) (And Julie, just so you know, while I've been confined to the sofa, I have been reading some of our favorites: Ishmael and Self Raised. They definitely help pass the time. Now, I just need to see if I can get my hands on a copy of "What Katy Did" for old time's sake.) ;-)
Oh, and just so you all know, I've been seeing the chiropractor regularly, and he says that I have much improved over the last week and a half, and that I am far better than he expected me to be. Course, when I heard that, I thought, "If I'm still feeling bad, but am better than he expected, I don't even want to know what he expected..." But again, God is abundantly gracious and merciful. :-)
Ta Ta For Now,
Melody
God is gracious! :-D
Due to the advice of my very wise and thoughtful teacher--Miss Anna Knight, I will not be taking exams this fall. After attending a WONDERFUL harp masterclass, we both agreed that it would be advisable for me to put exams aside for a while, and focus more on technique. This is good news for many reasons, but the main ones that are coming to mind right now, are the facts that (1) I do not know how long it will take me to fully recover from that car accident, and (2) this will allow Donald to have a stress-free wife for a while. :-)
Anyway, just thought I'd post that right quick. Now my back is complaining from my sitting at the computer to write this, so I shall bid you adieu until next time, and go back to my comfy chair and my book. :-) (And Julie, just so you know, while I've been confined to the sofa, I have been reading some of our favorites: Ishmael and Self Raised. They definitely help pass the time. Now, I just need to see if I can get my hands on a copy of "What Katy Did" for old time's sake.) ;-)
Oh, and just so you all know, I've been seeing the chiropractor regularly, and he says that I have much improved over the last week and a half, and that I am far better than he expected me to be. Course, when I heard that, I thought, "If I'm still feeling bad, but am better than he expected, I don't even want to know what he expected..." But again, God is abundantly gracious and merciful. :-)
Ta Ta For Now,
Melody
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Lord willin' and the crik don't rise...
James 4:13-15 says, "Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that."
This verse hit home more than ever on Thursday, June 11, at 1:30 p.m.
The plan was to go to lunch with my sister-in-law, and then go bowling as an after school/after harp exam celebration. Maria came over to my house, where we watched a movie, and then hopped in the car to go out for lunch. Scarcely 10 minutes from my home, our plans abruptly came to an end. While sitting at a stop light, I heard Maria gasp, scream, and then *BANG.* The impact of the jeep hitting us at about 40 mph while we were sitting still threw me forward and then back into my headrest. I have never hit my head on anything so hard. It suddenly occurred to my wondering mind that we had just had a wreck. Maria got out of the car to go assess the damage and tell the driver of the Jeep that we needed to pull over into a nearby parking lot. After the police arrived, they issued the man a ticket (the man apparently saw neither us nor the red light), and filled out the accident report.
In the mean time, my head started throbbing, and my lower back and neck began to ache. I wrapped my arms around myself to give my back some support. One of the police officers seeing this came over and asked if I was pregnant! I answered, "No, I'm afraid that I am not." He said, "Okay, I just wanted to make sure, because I saw how you were holding your lower back and stomach." I informed him that my back was hurting, and that was the reason for my actions. He then asked if Maria and I needed an ambulance. We assured him that we did not need one, and that the only thing bothering us were our backs and necks.
Finally, after all was over, Maria and I looked at each other and agreed that not only did we not want to go bowling now, but that we weren't hungry anymore. In fact, I was feeling somewhat nauseous. So, we headed home, where we obtained some Advil to help ease the growing pain in our heads and backs. By that evening, we were both so sore we could barely move.
So, yesterday morning, we both went to my chiropractor. After a thorough examination, he informed us that we both had whiplash, and that we must wear a cervical collar for the next week or two. He said, however, that of the two, my case was the worst (which is not surprising, due to the back injury I had two years ago, from which I still have not fully recovered). In fact, he told Maria that back-wise, I was years older than her (and she's 4 years older than me!). I am confined to pretty much just resting--No laundry, scrubbing toilets or bathtubs, no practicing harp...basically none of my normal activities for the next week or so. :-( I'm just glad this happened after harp exams, rather than before...
Anyway, the long and short of it is, I'm in a good deal of pain, albeit not quite so severe as it was two years ago, because then I was dealing with not only whiplash, but a slipped disc as well. However, this has set me back quite a ways, and I'm going to have to be really careful for a while, in order to get over this quickly.
God has His reasons, I know, and I'm not at all upset that He let this happen. I'm just thankful that he protected our lives, and kept us from being injured worse than we are--and that he also protected Maria's car, so that the damage was actually worse to the guy that hit us. His saving and protecting hand was definitely with us, and I am so grateful to Him that He hid us under the shelter of His wings. May His name be praised. :-)
Well, I have sat here typing for a while now, and think I need to call it quits. My neck is beginning to complain about sitting up, so I best go put ice on it again. Thanks for all your prayers and support. May the Lord of glory be with you all.
Love,
Melody
This verse hit home more than ever on Thursday, June 11, at 1:30 p.m.
The plan was to go to lunch with my sister-in-law, and then go bowling as an after school/after harp exam celebration. Maria came over to my house, where we watched a movie, and then hopped in the car to go out for lunch. Scarcely 10 minutes from my home, our plans abruptly came to an end. While sitting at a stop light, I heard Maria gasp, scream, and then *BANG.* The impact of the jeep hitting us at about 40 mph while we were sitting still threw me forward and then back into my headrest. I have never hit my head on anything so hard. It suddenly occurred to my wondering mind that we had just had a wreck. Maria got out of the car to go assess the damage and tell the driver of the Jeep that we needed to pull over into a nearby parking lot. After the police arrived, they issued the man a ticket (the man apparently saw neither us nor the red light), and filled out the accident report.
In the mean time, my head started throbbing, and my lower back and neck began to ache. I wrapped my arms around myself to give my back some support. One of the police officers seeing this came over and asked if I was pregnant! I answered, "No, I'm afraid that I am not." He said, "Okay, I just wanted to make sure, because I saw how you were holding your lower back and stomach." I informed him that my back was hurting, and that was the reason for my actions. He then asked if Maria and I needed an ambulance. We assured him that we did not need one, and that the only thing bothering us were our backs and necks.
Finally, after all was over, Maria and I looked at each other and agreed that not only did we not want to go bowling now, but that we weren't hungry anymore. In fact, I was feeling somewhat nauseous. So, we headed home, where we obtained some Advil to help ease the growing pain in our heads and backs. By that evening, we were both so sore we could barely move.
So, yesterday morning, we both went to my chiropractor. After a thorough examination, he informed us that we both had whiplash, and that we must wear a cervical collar for the next week or two. He said, however, that of the two, my case was the worst (which is not surprising, due to the back injury I had two years ago, from which I still have not fully recovered). In fact, he told Maria that back-wise, I was years older than her (and she's 4 years older than me!). I am confined to pretty much just resting--No laundry, scrubbing toilets or bathtubs, no practicing harp...basically none of my normal activities for the next week or so. :-( I'm just glad this happened after harp exams, rather than before...
Anyway, the long and short of it is, I'm in a good deal of pain, albeit not quite so severe as it was two years ago, because then I was dealing with not only whiplash, but a slipped disc as well. However, this has set me back quite a ways, and I'm going to have to be really careful for a while, in order to get over this quickly.
God has His reasons, I know, and I'm not at all upset that He let this happen. I'm just thankful that he protected our lives, and kept us from being injured worse than we are--and that he also protected Maria's car, so that the damage was actually worse to the guy that hit us. His saving and protecting hand was definitely with us, and I am so grateful to Him that He hid us under the shelter of His wings. May His name be praised. :-)
Well, I have sat here typing for a while now, and think I need to call it quits. My neck is beginning to complain about sitting up, so I best go put ice on it again. Thanks for all your prayers and support. May the Lord of glory be with you all.
Love,
Melody
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
A Quick Update...
It suddenly occurred to me today what a terrible blogger I must be, seeing as how I haven't posted anything since the week of Resurrection Sunday. But, I must admit that life has been pretty busy for me lately--or at least busy enough that I have not taken the time to write anything of any importance. However, as I am currently on a break from harp practice, I thought I would write a short little note.
Hmm...where to begin? Life remains wonderful as I continue to experience life as a married woman. Donald is the perfect husband in my eyes, as he loves me unconditionally and constantly gives me his support. I really cannot imagine life without him--I love him so much!
Due to some health issues that have plagued me for the last few years, and are now showing up more than ever, I have been on a rollercoaster emotionally. One day I'm happy, and the next day I don't know why I'm crying. 
But, Donald is ever ready to give me a hug when I need one, and knows when he needs to speak, or just hold me and let me cry. I am going to see a doctor on June 15th about these problems, and am praying that the Lord will work through the doctor to pinpoint the root cause.
But, despite this rollercoaster that I've been riding, there are very few rain clouds in my horizon. I LOVE being married, and I absolutely love keeping house. For Christmas, a cousin of Donald's gave us a gift card for $60 to a home decor store (Kirklands). I had never heard of the store, but one day last month while I was out shopping with my sisters, I "just happened" to come upon one, so decided to go in and look. For some time, I had been looking at the bare walls in my house with some frustration, but didn't know what to do about it. In this store, however, I found my answer! They had unbelievably inexpensive prices at Kirklands, and I was able to buy several things there. I was so excited (just ask my sisters...). Then, a late wedding gift arrived consisting of $30 cash. So, hearing that Hobby Lobby had all their wall decor 50% off, I went and was able to purchase several more items for my house. Perhaps later (meaning after exams next week), I'll sit down and upload some pictures of the house for you.
Another sunny spot in my life right now is my garden. I had never before been very interested in working outdoors, but now I love it. I love being in my yard, tending my flowers. You should have seen the weeds in the flowerbeds when I began working in it. They were terrible! The nextdoor neighbor (who has lived there for 35 years) told me that the last several people that lived in our house did nothing with the yard. I said, "I can tell!" Weeds were ALL OVER the yard. It was disgusting. So, I decided to conquer them if at all possible. For about a week, I spent time out in the flowerbeds, pulling and hoeing the weeds. Finally, I had it cleared out, so then went with my mother-in-law to pick out flowers. Anyway...it's quite a long story, but the long and short of it is, many days and hours of hard work later, I now have beautiful flowerbeds filled with blooming flowers. My neighbor came over to my yard yesterday when I was out working in it, and told me how beautiful it was (which is quite a compliment coming from her, as her yard is imaculate). That made me happy.
Seriously, something about those flowers make me so happy. I get happy and feel like jumping up and down everytime I look at them. Everytime we go somewhere, as we're backing out of the driveway, I have to look and comment on my flowers. Donald gets a bemused smile on his face and listens patiently. To me, those flowers are one of God's ways to tell me that He loves me, and I'm so grateful that He's helping them to grow!
Okay...enough about flowers...if I keep going, I'm bound to get so caught up in the subject that I write pages and pages about nothing else. ;-)
Other activities in my life include a daily walk (someone once told me that a person gets fat after getting married, and I'm bound and determined to not let that happen), cooking, cleaning, studying for my harp exam that is next week (eek!), and tons of practicing. Due to my back not holding up to two hours of straight practicing, I have begun breaking my practicing up into four 30-minute segments (or six 20-minute segments if necessary). It has worked really well for me, and I actually get more accomplished that way. My pieces are nearly there....I think.
Two funny things about my harp playing...First of all, on one section of a really fast piece, my fingers kept getting really stiff and clumsy, therefore causing me to make several mistakes. Finally, my harp teacher watched me closely one day, and noticed that I was holding my breath! Once she had me purposefully breathe through that section, I was able to stay relaxed and get through without messing up. Funny, huh?
Secondly, before big exams or something else stressful, I always have dreams related to them. For instance, when I was studying for the SAT and had been really focusing on my math, I dreamed all night long about Algebra equations--and they actually made sense! Well, a few nights ago, I was having a dream about practicing the harp and turning pages in the middle of a song, when suddenly I felt Donald touch me, and ask why I was hitting him. I sleepily replied, "I'm turning pages for my harp," and then rolled over and went back to sleep. Poor darling! He has to put up with so much....and he likes to tease me about that too.
This last weekend we went on a trip to both East and West Texas for two different family reunions. It was lots of fun--but I must say the most enjoyable part of it was the travel. I don't normally like travelling, but really loved all the beautiful scenery and getting to have Donald all to myself for a long period of time. It was pure bliss. :-) It rained a good portion of both trips, and I was reminded of God's mercy in a whole new way (especially since God says that He sends rain on both the just and the unjust).
For a long while, as we traveled East, I admired this huge, gorgeous cloud formation ahead. The sun was shining on it, and it was bright and beautiful (fluffy clouds such as these give me the same feeling that flowers give me, just F.Y.I.). I kept commenting on it to Donald, who is quite the expert when it comes to clouds and weather (a fascination of his, second only to Air Conditioning). As we drove further East, the cloud started getting above us. Then, we reached the spot when we were most certainly under it, and everything became dark and wet as we entered the downpour. I amazedly looked behind us to see that the road we had just driven was dry and sunny while all before us was wet and dark. Donald then said, "This, my dear, is caused by the cloud that you have been admiring." My mind instantly sought to find a spiritual analogy to this situation, and one came to me.
The cloud seen from above or far away looked beautiful in the splendor and glory of the sun shining on it. The cloud seen from below, however, was dark and dreary. In the same way, when I am going through a trial, all I can see is the cloud on top of me--all may seem lonely and dark. However, if I respond rightly to the trial, those watching will see the glory and splendor of Christ resting upon me as I am transformed more into His image, and I will be a reminder of God's mercy and love to all who see me.
Anyway, I shall end on that note, as I must return to my harp now. Please be praying for me as I take my exam on June 5th. I am going to try not to get nervous and am praying that God will play through my fingers. However, as a godly woman once said, "If I perish, I perish." :-p
Praying that the splendor of the risen Savior will rest upon you all,
Melody
Hmm...where to begin? Life remains wonderful as I continue to experience life as a married woman. Donald is the perfect husband in my eyes, as he loves me unconditionally and constantly gives me his support. I really cannot imagine life without him--I love him so much!
Due to some health issues that have plagued me for the last few years, and are now showing up more than ever, I have been on a rollercoaster emotionally. One day I'm happy, and the next day I don't know why I'm crying. 
But, Donald is ever ready to give me a hug when I need one, and knows when he needs to speak, or just hold me and let me cry. I am going to see a doctor on June 15th about these problems, and am praying that the Lord will work through the doctor to pinpoint the root cause.But, despite this rollercoaster that I've been riding, there are very few rain clouds in my horizon. I LOVE being married, and I absolutely love keeping house. For Christmas, a cousin of Donald's gave us a gift card for $60 to a home decor store (Kirklands). I had never heard of the store, but one day last month while I was out shopping with my sisters, I "just happened" to come upon one, so decided to go in and look. For some time, I had been looking at the bare walls in my house with some frustration, but didn't know what to do about it. In this store, however, I found my answer! They had unbelievably inexpensive prices at Kirklands, and I was able to buy several things there. I was so excited (just ask my sisters...). Then, a late wedding gift arrived consisting of $30 cash. So, hearing that Hobby Lobby had all their wall decor 50% off, I went and was able to purchase several more items for my house. Perhaps later (meaning after exams next week), I'll sit down and upload some pictures of the house for you.
Another sunny spot in my life right now is my garden. I had never before been very interested in working outdoors, but now I love it. I love being in my yard, tending my flowers. You should have seen the weeds in the flowerbeds when I began working in it. They were terrible! The nextdoor neighbor (who has lived there for 35 years) told me that the last several people that lived in our house did nothing with the yard. I said, "I can tell!" Weeds were ALL OVER the yard. It was disgusting. So, I decided to conquer them if at all possible. For about a week, I spent time out in the flowerbeds, pulling and hoeing the weeds. Finally, I had it cleared out, so then went with my mother-in-law to pick out flowers. Anyway...it's quite a long story, but the long and short of it is, many days and hours of hard work later, I now have beautiful flowerbeds filled with blooming flowers. My neighbor came over to my yard yesterday when I was out working in it, and told me how beautiful it was (which is quite a compliment coming from her, as her yard is imaculate). That made me happy.
Seriously, something about those flowers make me so happy. I get happy and feel like jumping up and down everytime I look at them. Everytime we go somewhere, as we're backing out of the driveway, I have to look and comment on my flowers. Donald gets a bemused smile on his face and listens patiently. To me, those flowers are one of God's ways to tell me that He loves me, and I'm so grateful that He's helping them to grow!
Okay...enough about flowers...if I keep going, I'm bound to get so caught up in the subject that I write pages and pages about nothing else. ;-)
Other activities in my life include a daily walk (someone once told me that a person gets fat after getting married, and I'm bound and determined to not let that happen), cooking, cleaning, studying for my harp exam that is next week (eek!), and tons of practicing. Due to my back not holding up to two hours of straight practicing, I have begun breaking my practicing up into four 30-minute segments (or six 20-minute segments if necessary). It has worked really well for me, and I actually get more accomplished that way. My pieces are nearly there....I think.
Two funny things about my harp playing...First of all, on one section of a really fast piece, my fingers kept getting really stiff and clumsy, therefore causing me to make several mistakes. Finally, my harp teacher watched me closely one day, and noticed that I was holding my breath! Once she had me purposefully breathe through that section, I was able to stay relaxed and get through without messing up. Funny, huh?
Secondly, before big exams or something else stressful, I always have dreams related to them. For instance, when I was studying for the SAT and had been really focusing on my math, I dreamed all night long about Algebra equations--and they actually made sense! Well, a few nights ago, I was having a dream about practicing the harp and turning pages in the middle of a song, when suddenly I felt Donald touch me, and ask why I was hitting him. I sleepily replied, "I'm turning pages for my harp," and then rolled over and went back to sleep. Poor darling! He has to put up with so much....and he likes to tease me about that too.
This last weekend we went on a trip to both East and West Texas for two different family reunions. It was lots of fun--but I must say the most enjoyable part of it was the travel. I don't normally like travelling, but really loved all the beautiful scenery and getting to have Donald all to myself for a long period of time. It was pure bliss. :-) It rained a good portion of both trips, and I was reminded of God's mercy in a whole new way (especially since God says that He sends rain on both the just and the unjust).
For a long while, as we traveled East, I admired this huge, gorgeous cloud formation ahead. The sun was shining on it, and it was bright and beautiful (fluffy clouds such as these give me the same feeling that flowers give me, just F.Y.I.). I kept commenting on it to Donald, who is quite the expert when it comes to clouds and weather (a fascination of his, second only to Air Conditioning). As we drove further East, the cloud started getting above us. Then, we reached the spot when we were most certainly under it, and everything became dark and wet as we entered the downpour. I amazedly looked behind us to see that the road we had just driven was dry and sunny while all before us was wet and dark. Donald then said, "This, my dear, is caused by the cloud that you have been admiring." My mind instantly sought to find a spiritual analogy to this situation, and one came to me.
The cloud seen from above or far away looked beautiful in the splendor and glory of the sun shining on it. The cloud seen from below, however, was dark and dreary. In the same way, when I am going through a trial, all I can see is the cloud on top of me--all may seem lonely and dark. However, if I respond rightly to the trial, those watching will see the glory and splendor of Christ resting upon me as I am transformed more into His image, and I will be a reminder of God's mercy and love to all who see me.
Anyway, I shall end on that note, as I must return to my harp now. Please be praying for me as I take my exam on June 5th. I am going to try not to get nervous and am praying that God will play through my fingers. However, as a godly woman once said, "If I perish, I perish." :-p
Praying that the splendor of the risen Savior will rest upon you all,
Melody
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