Faithful Days

New Day, New Blog

2012-01-27T17:58:00.000-08:00

Come find me here!

Are They True?

2011-03-23T21:11:00.000-07:00

Are they true?

Are the promises that the word has spoken true?

If you were to have asked me that 4 years I go I would have said without a doubt.

If you were to ask me today, I would say that I hope so.

I'm not so sure anymore.

I had dinner with a group of friends tonight.

All was well and at the drop of a hat,

I feel tears welling up in my eyes.

So I left.

I drove home,

Tears streaming down my face.

That's not who I am.

I'm the strong one.

The one people run to when they need support.

The one that others look to for security.

I've never been the sad one,

The one without hope.

I hate this feeling.

It's not me.

I've hidden these feelings and thoughts for so long

That even I don't know how to respond to them.

This is new territory.

I'm SO broken.

So saddened.

So burdened.

So heavy hearted.

8 years ago God almost took my life.

I remember sitting in the hospital bed at the lowest place

Of my life up to that point.

I had a conversation with God.

I told Him that I had always been told that everything He did had a purpose and that He can and will turn bad into good.

He had been faithful in that promise up until then but I believed that my then problem was bigger than He.

I wished Him luck at fixing me and turning something so bad into something good.

He remained faithful.

He reminded me of the verse Jeremiah 29:11-13.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord.

Plans to prosper you and not to harm you.

Plans to give you hope and a future.

Then you will call on me and come and pray to me,

and I will listen to you.

You will seek me and find me

When you seek me with all your heart."

8 years ago I chose that as my life verse.

I wish I still believed it in my core like I once did.

I do know that He is capable.

I do know that He is powerful.

But I also know that I am broken.

That I am lost.

A Long Journey...

2011-03-22T11:06:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been in a room full of people and felt so alone?

That happened to me last week and it was one of the saddest moments of my life.

After I sat there feeling so alone, a voice came over me and told me:

"God doesn't want this for you"

The voice was more real than one could ever imagine.

It was comforting yet scary at the same time.

I want so badly to trust the voice but am so bruised and fearful that I don't even know if I can trust God.

I'm afraid to open up.

I'm afraid to hurt more than I already do.

Every time I open up and become vulnerable I end up regretting it and becoming more and more wounded.

I'm so scared that there will come a time when the right man comes along and I'll be too jaded to be able to make it work.

I want to have faith.

I don't want to lose heart.

I want to deal with my past and put it away.

I want redemption.

I want healing.

I want all these things yet feel stuck.

I'm afraid to unbury the hurts of my past.

I don't want to relive those moments.

I want it to disappear and never look back.

I know that's not healthy

And one must confront their past before they can embrace their future.

I'm just so afraid.

The quote from Mother Theresa rings so true...

"God won't give you anything you can't handle,

I just wish He didn't trust me so much."

So here I am...

Broken...

Heart ached,

and Sad.

Longing for healing...

Please show me the way.

Love This

2010-11-23T15:15:00.000-08:00

Blessings,

Nora

Drawing Strength And Perspective

2010-11-17T20:34:00.000-08:00

This girl is my hero

Her name is Ashley Aven. She was diagnosed with AML leukemia at the age of 17. For a year she fought with everything in her, and unfortunately lost her battle on August 15th.

I remember thinking to myself on the day of her funeral how it was going to be a tough day.

I started feeling sorry for myself, then realized that Ashley would be thankful to have a bad day.

She was one of the strongest human beings I have ever met.

I played in an alumni softball game as a fundraiser for her family back in June.

I saw her earlier that day and remembered telling her how nervous I was seeing as I hadn't played ball in 5 years.

She offered me peace an encouragement and told me I'd do great.

Here I was, perfectly healthy, complaining about something that didn't even really matter.

And there she was, battling for her life, telling me everything was going to be okay.

Whenever I have a sad moment, I stop and think about Ashley.

I think about the hell she and her family went through with her battle and how she was so strong and courageous.

She always put others before herself and never once did she complain.

What a beautiful lesson in perspective.

Thank you Ashley for your life and legacy.

Blessings,

Nora

Grace

2010-11-07T21:51:00.000-08:00

Nothing breaks my heart more than seeing someone “fall” from God and have His people throw them out on the street as if worthless.

Our job as God’s chosen people is to SHOWER grace on all. Grace is NOT conditional. It’s the very essence of who God is and why he sent His son.

Please do not get me wrong and think that I’m trying to excuse sin. True grace does NOT EXCUSE sin, but showers UNENDING love and compassion on the sinner.

Grace does not have a time limit.

Have you ever had a really bad injury and when it happened you didn’t even feel pain? That’s what our sin is like. At first we are numb to our sin and don’t recognize it. It is only when the numbness and shock wears off and the pain sinks in that a person can truly start to heal. You have to be broken in order to be restored. This takes time, so be patient. You can’t fix something that you don’t recognize as broken.

Steps to redemption or a guide to achieving grace makes the person focus on the dos and don’ts. That is not grace, it is probation. It’s like serving time or doing community service. It is not unconditional and free of charge. By putting a stipulation or a checklist on grace it’s saying that Jesus is not enough.

Jesus is MORE than enough.

God made us a promise and that promise is that there is nothing you can or can’t do to make Him turn his back on you. It’s a promise from God sealed through Jesus. As God’s chosen people we must also make a promise that there is nothing someone can or can’t do to make YOU turn your back on them.

In order for someone to be restored and renewed they must be shown grace. Without grace there is no reason for them to change their ways. They don’t see a reason to change if everyone’s still going to hate them anyway. What a sad message we have sent to the church and His people.

Believe me, I am not saying that I am guilt free. I have been conditional with my grace and my love more than I would like to admit.

However, there came a time in my life where all I needed was grace and it was no where to be found. It was conditional. It had a time limit and it showed no compassion. That is not grace from God, that is worldly and the difference is huge.

The second most important commandment in the bible above loving God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength is to love others. Loving others means showing them God’s compassion and grace.

Next time someone disappoints you, sins, or you find yourself judging, please stop yourself. Think about Jesus and what He would do given the situation. Think about grace and forgiveness, the very reason why God sent His son. Put yourself in that persons shoes and think about how you would want someone to treat you had you been the one to fall. We are brothers and sisters in Christ. It is our duty to carry out God’s word to His people.

Blessings,

Nora

Feels Like Fall

2010-09-20T18:49:00.000-07:00

I haven't felt too crafty lately but with fall approaching and the weather changing I'm having that itch.

I bought these lamps below a couple weeks ago and was just going to do some typical burlap lampshades until I was browsing through Pottery Barn and saw the amazing lampshades below.

I adore these lamp shades but definitely do not adore the $40.00 a piece price tag.

I've read online a few different tutorials so I'm going to give it a shot this week.

I'll let you know how it goes.

Blessings,

Nora

Rain vs. Shine

2010-09-07T16:23:00.000-07:00

It has been way too long my friends....

I apologize for being MIA but I've been overwhelmed with work and life.

I'm not going to lie and say that everything has been great,

but I will say that once you've been in some deep dark valleys the sunshine feels that much warmer.

I've always been a firm believer that everything happens for a reason,

but I know there are days when that is hard to see as a truth.

I have been there...

I have had those dark days when I couldn't see further than the teardrops and pain...

I've had those days where I felt stuck and didn't think I could handle one more thing...

But I've also come through that and am standing and here to say that I am genuinely happy.

There is life beyond the tears,

There is life beyond the pain,

There is life greater than you ever imagined....

I am thankful for the trials,

For without the rain, you can't appreciate the sun...

Cling on, press forward, and look for the rainbow.

I promise there are brighter days ahead.

"I know God will not give me anything I can not handle, sometimes I just wish He didn't trust me so much."

-Mother Teresa

Blessings,

Nora

image via weheartit

Quote

2010-07-15T15:11:00.001-07:00

Something Different

2010-07-08T13:49:00.000-07:00

I don't know exactly why or what is happening but I am genuinely happy.

I honestly can't remember the last time I've felt this way.

It has been a long time in the making.

I know there are going to be ups and downs but I am now forever thankful for those ups.

I appreciate the sun so much more, having been stuck in a storm of life.

I don't know how long the happiness will stick around but I am going to enjoy every last drop of it.

Blessings,

Nora

image via weheartit

It's All About

2010-06-25T22:48:00.000-07:00

"The way to freedom and escape from being condemned is to love. A person who is acting in love is always looking for the best in others, never gives up on them, never keeps records of their sins. A person who is acting in love never hopes the person gets what is coming to them. They aren't happy when another person suffers in consequence.

When you're looking for someone else's best, you hide your worst. When you never give up on someone, you will not be given up on. When you erase the sins of another in your mind, your sins are not remembered either. When you push through for another person, you get to go through, too. When you lift the weight of another person's consequences, you satisfy the Law of Love."

How hard of a reality are these truths?

Oh, they are so much easier said than done.

I hope that one day I satisfy the Law of Love.

Happy Weekend!

Nora

Thoughts...

2010-06-17T14:19:00.001-07:00

Words

Wisdom...

"Forgiveness is probably the most powerful weapon for extinguishing the fire of evil intentions.

The destruction stops at the point of love.

Forgiveness is not only a denial of the impulse of your own flesh it's also a denial of the intents of another's flesh.

It's the ultimate middle finger to the very entity of evil."

Just a few random thoughts that I loved....

Blessings,

Nora

χαρις

2010-06-14T12:25:00.000-07:00

χαρις: Greek for grace

Words of wisdom for the day:

"I can't mess up God's plan.

My failure doens't ruin me and my achievement doesn't elevate me.

This whole thing, life, is not about me or you, it's about Jesus.

The story of His love is reflected in the lives of His people,

not by what they do,

but by what He does with what they do.

Grace twists sin into something that reflects God's love and mercy."

Blessings,

Nora

Weekend Plans

2010-06-11T12:23:00.000-07:00

I'm going here for the weekend...

I'm going to spend time reading this...

Doing that...

And hopefully lots of this...

Blessings,

Nora

Blue

2010-06-10T15:53:00.001-07:00

Not much to say, just some pictures I find o so beautiful!

Blessings,

Nora

all images via weheartit

Running Away...

2010-06-01T17:35:00.000-07:00

I've learned a lot of lessons this past year and one of the most important is to not run away from your problems.

You can try and run far away, but they're going to catch up with you sooner or later.

I read these words today about avoiding problems and they spoke so much truth...

"You can't ignore the damaged places in your life because every time you try to move forward, and leave them behind, He'll bring you right back to them.

If you've glossed over and given them the seal of 'redeemed' even though they're not, those areas will bleed through your white wedding dress and let everyone know what you've been hiding.

You already know what area I'm talking about and you can push it down with all the authority of human stubornness, but you'll never win this battle.

You can go over this and over this as many times as you choose.

Being stubborn and seeing yourself through is not a virtue, it's a disease.

It's submission He wants, not strength.

God doesn't care how messy it gets, and He's in no hurry.

When you finally break down and face your demons, you will not be alone.

You'll find the strength and wisdom you've been striving for and it will come in your brokenness.

It's what you've wanted all along.

Grace is the photo op.

Grace is the only thing you should have on display.

All of the other things you want to pour out of your life will effortlessly flow from the well of grace by no stubborn striving of your own."

If there is something in your life you're running away from, please re-consider. Let me tell you, it is not going to make it go away.

He has a way of chasing us down, and He is ALWAYS faster than us...

Blessings,

Nora

images vis weheartit

It's Official...

2010-05-27T14:29:00.000-07:00

I'm registered and ready to go.

Classes start June 21st...

I'm finally doing what I've put off for so long...

Going back to school.

I'm excited and ready to go.

Blessings,

Nora

Lyrics...

2010-05-20T21:23:00.000-07:00

I'm huge into words, poems, quotes, and lyrics...

I was looking through lyrics today and these struck me.

I'm pretty sure that they are intended to be a love song but I see it as a love song from God to his beloved.

On Your Own lyrics

You live with a halo round your head,
This time your leaving.
This place where the walls are painted red,
Freedom is what you need.

But if the world should ever fall apart around you,
And if your lost and barely breathing,
I will find you,
And carry you back home.
I won't forsake the only love I ever known,
When your out there on your own.

Dark clouds they surround you in the sky,
Rain falls when your sleeping.
When your past the point of no return.
I will take away the hurt.

And if the world should ever fall apart around you,
And if your lost and barely breathing,
I will find you,
And carry you back home.
I won't forsake the only love I ever known,
When your out there.....

And I will wait,
However long it takes,
Til you realize what you have been searching for,
Was right here all along.
Eh...yea.....

When you lost the only light you had to guide you,
And your cold and barely breathing,
I will find you.
And carry you back home,
I won't forsake the only love I ever known,
When your out there on your own.

And if the world should ever fall apart around you,
And if your lost and barely breathing,
I will find you,
And carry you back home.
I won't forsake the only love I ever known,
When your out there on your....

When your out there on your own.

Blessings,

Nora

Staying Strong For Others...

2010-05-17T13:53:00.000-07:00

Dance

2010-04-27T20:40:00.000-07:00

When I was in 8th grade we were asked to choose a song that would be our

"Personal Theme Song".

This song had to have lyrics that reflected our life.

We were to copy it and write a speech about what it meant to us and why we

chose it.

After days of looking up lyrics I discovered the song

"I Hope You Dance" by Lee Ann Womack.

I have not stuck true to these lyrics that once gave me hope.

I settled for the path that I thought would be the one of least resistance.

I came close to selling out, and didn't reconsider.

Sadly above all, I did not give faith a fighting chance.

My hope for the future is that I change that pattern.

I don't want my decisions to be based on fear.

As I walk through the toughest times in my life, these words are hope to me.

They are a reminder of what I found important so many years ago

And what I need to keep as important now and in the future.

I hope you never lose your sense of wonder

You get your fill to eat but always keep that hunger

May you never take one single breath for grantid

God forbid love ever leave you empty handed

I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean

Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens

Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance

And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance

I hope you dance

I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance

Never settle for the path of least resistance

Living might mean taking chances

But they're worth taking

Loving might be a mistake

But it's worth making

Don't let some hell bent heart leave you bitter

When you come close to selling out, reconsider

Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance

And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance
(Time is a wheel in constant motion always)
I hope you dance
(Rolling us along)
I hope you dance
(Tell me who)
I hope you dance
(Wants to look back on their years and wonder)
(Where those years have gone)

Cottage Gardens

2010-03-22T13:50:00.000-07:00

This is an old post from last year but I'm finding it inspiring again so thought I would share...

Now that the sun is finally shining I am loving being outside. Cottage gardens are so inspiring to me. I found these photos and info. from This Old House

*Unique Elegance*

Classic cottage gardens—like the houses that give them their name—tend to be compact, informal, and highly individualistic. Located close to the front or back door, traditional examples display a harmonious mix of annuals, perennials, roses, shrubs, vines—even vegetables—in neatly tended arrangements designed to delight, rather than impress.

*Follow The Brick Road*

Bricks laid in a diagonal herringbone pattern form a curving path dividing two wide borders. A hipped-roof birdhouse draws the eye upward.

*Structural Grace*

A classic rose-covered arbor and meticulously trimmed privet hedge provide architectural structure in a small yard overflowing with pink and purple flowering plants, including lush hydrangeas, old-fashioned garden phlox (foreground), and a wide window box filled with sun-loving annuals.

*Made For Shade*

Belgian block frames a shade-tolerant border composed of 'Anabelle' hydrangeas, hostas, and ferns.

*Summer Romance*

Under an arching weeping willow, a row of late-flowering pink and white rose of Sharon shrubs—planted closely together to create a privacy screen—gives this late-summer garden romantic appeal.

*Brilliant Border*

Favorite cottage-garden perennials—including black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia), pink-flowering sedum, and pale-blue delphinium—create a vibrant border around a carefully tended lawn.

*Green Peace*
Greenery—in plants and painted trim—evokes a sense of tranquility in a cedar-shingled cottage's low-maintenance, cobblestone courtyard.

*Casual Classic*

A Greek Revival dwelling gets a down-to-earth garden that takes the edge off its formality.

*Country Charm*

A favorite of butterflies, golden Rudbeckia grabs attention in a casual country garden punctuated by a compact Japanese maple, neatly trimmed boxwood, swordlike iris foliage, and a rose-covered arbor. Inorganic elements—from the stonework to the timeworn mailbox and lozenge-shaped window on the back door—add immeasurably to the simple yard's undeniable charms.

*Daring Hues*

A row of hydrangeas makes a bold impact in a narrow patch of land.

*My Blue Heaven*

Easily grown from seed, 'Heavenly Blue' morning glories twine about a white-picket fence, their heart-shaped foliage providing a visual metaphor of simplicity and contentment.

*Splashes Of Color*

Tall cottage classics like lemon-yellow daisies and fragrant white phlox stand out against the silvered shingles of a cedar-shake outbuilding.

*Uniformity Is Boring*

In the best cottage gardens, diversty reigns, with a wide range of roses, annuals, perennials, and shrubs sharing the limelight. Here, left to right, hostas, statuesque eupatorium, black-eyed Susans, snowy phlox, and eight-foot-tall hollyhocks (nearly gone to seed) harmonize in the yard of a rose-covered retreat.

*Enchanting Entry*

Billowing pink hibiscus blossoms greet visitors by the front door.

*Color Study*

Limiting the palette to two or three hues—in this case, pink, blue, and cream—keeps the mix harmonious.

Hope you enjoyed those beautiful photos. Have a blessed day!

Nora

2010-03-17T18:43:00.001-07:00

I read these words today and they spoke to me...

"Go up through her vine rows and destroy, but make not a full end. Strip away her branches, for they are not the Lords". Jeremiah 5:10 ESV

Your experience is not about what's right in front of you.

There is always a purpose and it's always something more eternal.

Resisting only increases your discomfort, but it does not stop the process.

Face the happenings of life with faith that God is not only in control, but He is also good.

Faith gives you hope.

Lack of faith steals your hope and leaves you feeling like a victim.

Victims have a faith problem.

Buildings built on faulty foundations eventually come down.

Poorly organized spaces have to be redone.

If you want it to be better, then it will have to get worse.

Everything is ripped up and pulled out into the open.

With everything displaced, you can see things clearly.

If you feel displaced, ripped up and pulled out, don't be afraid.

This isn't for your end, this is for your new beginning.

Down

2010-03-11T11:58:00.001-08:00

I am on a mission to find an amazing down comforter.

I will splurge if I find the perfect one but am hoping not to.

I have read that real goose down is better than synthetic.

I need to make sure that it is all white with no colored labeling or damask stripes. My duvet is very light weight and designs can be seen through it.

Overstock has a ton to choose from at pretty good deals.

Anyone have suggestions or tips?

Thanks!

Blessings,

Nora

Inspire

2010-03-09T21:13:00.000-08:00

to fill with an animating, quickening, or exalting influence

to produce or arouse (a feeling, thought, etc.)

to fill or affect with a specified feeling, thought

to influence or impel

Today I'm inspired.

I'm inspired by student athletes who are deaf, travel an hour to and from school each day for a better education, work their hardest at their studies and sports, all while having a good attitude.

Today I am inspired by a student athlete who no longer lives with her parents, but with her sister an hour away from school and still manages to get up early on a Saturday morning to ride the bus to and from softball practice, all while having a good attitude.

Today I am inspired to have a good attitude.

What inspires you?

Blessings,

Nora

all images weheartit

Oasis

2010-03-08T08:15:00.000-08:00

I'm on a mission to create a calming oasis for my bedroom....

This quote is my new theme for decorating.

I just ordered this Rachel Ashwell bedding from Target.

It's currently sold out, but I found it on ebay for a pretty good deal.

This is the style of my headboard.

The fabric I used inside the framing is actually burlap.

I want to buy lamps similar to this and get burlap shades to match my headboard.

I found this dresser on etsy.

It's sold but I absolutely love the cool blue color and hopefully will be able to find one/make one similar to this.

Now I just need a good wall color....

Blessings,

Nora

My Cry

2010-02-18T19:00:00.000-08:00

*I love this song...

Believing it to my core is my new cry.

I wish so badly to believe these words*

Unredeemed

Selah

The cruelest word

The coldest heart

The deepest wound

The endless dark

The lonely ache

The burning tears

The bitter nights

The wasted years

Life breaks and falls apart

But we know these are

Places where grace is soon to be so amazing

It may be unfulfilled

It may be unrestored

But when anything that's shattered is laid before the Lord

Just watch and see

It will not be unredeemed

For every choice that led to shame

And all the love that never came

For every vow that someone broke

And every lie that gave up hope

We live in the shadow

But the cross says these are all

Places where grace is soon to be so amazing

It may be unfulfilled

It may be unrestored

But when anything that's shattered is laid before the Lord

Just watch and see

It will not be unredeemed

Places where grace is soon to be so amazing

It may be unfulfilled

It may be unrestored

But you never know the miracle the Father has in store

Just watch and see

It will not be

Just watch and see

It will not be unredeemed

Being Thankful

2010-01-28T20:57:00.001-08:00

Today I am thankful

I'm thankful for simple things like sunshine,

good food,

loving friends,

and family.

I'm thankful for the promise of spring.

I'm thankful for baseball.

I'm thankful for my job

and endless opportunities for my future.

Today I'm thankful for support and encouragement.

I'm thankful for blog friends,

and prayers of loved ones.

I'm thankful for quality,

not quantity.

Today I'm thankful

that I'm thankful

Blessings,

Nora

**What are you thankful for?

Heart Surgery

2010-01-23T11:52:00.000-08:00

The last few weeks I have been receiving a heart transplant.

My old heart started out full of sadness which turned into bitterness and morphed itself into a deep rooted fear and disbelief that God can make beauty from ashes.

I traded a life of peace, beauty, and redemption for a hopeless life of bitterness, resentment, and shackling chains.

Jesus has been chasing me. Chasing me with His spirit and the prayers of many.

He began performing surgery without my knowledge or conscent.

I am so thankful that I serve a God that LOVES me despite my hardened unbelieving heart.

He LOVES me enough to take that heart and not just repair it but to make it new.

He LOVES me enough to pick up this sopping mess of a sinner and carry me to safety.

It has been and will be a long journey of making sure we cut out all the rotting parts of my heart, but I am hopeful now that He is the one restoring me instead of the world.

At the end of the day I hold a new truth...

NOTHING WILL BE UNREDEEMED

Choose

2010-01-12T13:54:00.000-08:00

Today I am going to choose to see the world through optimistic eyes.

Today I am going to choose joy.

Today I am going to choose to have hope.

What are you going to choose for your day?

Blessings,

Nora

image: weheartit

H.O.P.E.

2010-01-02T13:50:00.001-08:00

HOPE: the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best. Something that is hoped for. To look forward to with desire and reasonable confidence. To believe, desire, or trust. To place trust, rely.

The bible says :

"Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord." -Psalm 31:24

"But the eyes of the Lord are those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love." -Psalm 33:18

"We wait in hope for the Lord, he is our help and our shield." -Psalm 33:20

"Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him." -Psalm 62:5

***How I could use a dose of His hope today...

image weheartit

Curveball

2009-12-30T08:37:00.000-08:00

Sometimes life throws you a curveball...

That's where I'm at...

I never in a million years would have imagined my life to have turned out this way...

The future is full of uncertainty...

I'm afraid and unsure...

Change...

2009-12-28T08:55:00.000-08:00

I haven't been feeling like myself lately

It feels like I'm on the verge of something new and good

I'm spending time fighting becoming a butterfly and I don't know why

When I'm there, I will look back and appreciate the times I was a caterpillar

I need to learn to let go

Blessings,

Nora

Wasted

2009-11-30T13:37:00.000-08:00

This statement is so true.

I'm enjoying wasting time.

I miss you all so much.

I'll be back soon.

Just wanted to check in and say hi.

I think of you often...

Hope you're having a blessed holiday season.

Blessings,

Nora

image weheartit

Thoughts For The Day

2009-11-17T20:11:00.000-08:00

I'm overwhelmed.

Work too much.

Need some time to relax.

That being said...

I'm taking a blogation for a little while.

I miss you all and am reading, just not posting.

Hope everyone is doing well!

Blessings,

Nora

In The Future...

2009-11-10T17:07:00.000-08:00

This will be a reality.

We will look back and be thankful for struggles.

What doesn't kill us, makes us stronger.

Blessings,

Nora

image via weheartit

Realness

2009-11-09T21:30:00.000-08:00

image via weheartit

You don't always have to pretend to be strong,

There's no need to prove all the time that

Everything is going well

You shouldn't be concerned about

What other people are thinking,

Cry if you need to,

It's good to cry out all your tears

Because only then

Will you be able to smile again

Blessings,

Nora

Long Road

2009-11-09T10:05:00.000-08:00

That my friends is a picture of cookies baking in MY oven.

I finally got an oven yesterday after 2 1/2 months without.

I can not wait to use it more.

What should I make for dinner?

Blessings,

Nora

Dream A Dream

2009-11-05T21:00:00.000-08:00

I have dreams of peace

Peace not of this world

A life filled with happiness and contentment

Knowing that the battles are not mine to fight

They have already been won

Dreams of a world where it's okay to say "no"

Dreams of a life where others

opinions and thoughts don't matter

Where we all realize deep down in our souls

that we are PERFECTLY and WONDERFULLY made

*What are your dreams?*

Blessings,

Nora

image weheartit

Home Depot...

2009-10-26T10:55:00.000-07:00

At 7:30 this morning Home Depot delivered two pallets of goods to our house.

About $3,000 worth of product.

Needless to say, I'm gonna be busy for a while.

I'll post new house pics. soon.

Blessings,

Nora

One Simple??? Word

2009-10-20T20:57:00.000-07:00

It amazes me that as children one of the first words we learn to say is "no",

As adults one of the hardest words to say is "no".

I'm searching for a life of peace and less commitments which sometimes is going to require me to say "no".

It's a lesson I'm in the beginning stages of learning.

My first steps on this journey were to delete my myspace and facebook.

I'm on a mission to cut out any unnecessary commitments.

Blogging is necessary.

You women encourage me beyond belief.

Your friendship inspires.

Thank you!

Blessings,

Nora

Revelation

2009-10-20T14:07:00.000-07:00

Today is a new day...

Today I'm choosing to let go of the past

And to look forward

I'm going to learn from past experiences

And help them shape me better for the days ahead

I'm choosing to move on and look to a better and brighter future

Full of freedom, peace, healing, and forgiveness

Blessings,

Nora

Change In Perspective

2009-10-18T21:23:00.000-07:00

These words struck me hard this morning at church.

They are going to be my new theme.

No matter what comes, I will rejoice.

I will rejoice, and be glad.

Blessings,

Nora

Have I Lost My Marbles?

2009-10-14T17:06:00.000-07:00

I am STRESSING over picking out my countertops.

I have looked at hundreds of granite samples and can't find anything I love more than carrera marble.

It is more fragile, sensitive to heat, gets scratches, and looks worn in.

Is it bad that I don't really care because I love it that much?

What is not to love about those counters?

After getting some much needed advice from Kim,

I think I'm going to take the plunge.

Please don't tell me I've lost my marbles.

Blessings,

Nora

photos from Martha Stewart, Country Living, Houzz, Decorpad

Worry Wart

2009-10-05T11:33:00.000-07:00

"Worrying is like a rocking chair.

It gives you something to do,

but it won't get you anywhere."

-Ryan Reynolds

Van Wilder

Blessings,

Nora

I Heart It

2009-10-01T17:55:00.000-07:00

I am loving these inspiration photos. Clean, crisp, and cozy.

I hope one day I have a girl and her room can be half as cute.

I am loving chandeliers.

Such a simple room, so cozy and peaceful.

Chandelier once again. Everything looks so fresh. Love the glass knobs on the dresser.

Who wouldn't want to spend an afternoon of girl talk there?

Such a great mix of treasures.

All images from weheartit

Blessings,
Nora

You Know...

2009-10-01T12:33:00.000-07:00

Have you ever asked a question that you already knew the answer to?

I did in my last post.

The second picture to me wins, hands down.

Problem is, hubby doesn't like light counter tops. He likes the dark ones.

So...I have spent the last two days convincing him that the lighter ones are much warmer.

Your votes also helped convince him.

Thank you for confirming my thoughts!

Y'all are a blessing.

Much love,

Nora

Vote

2009-09-30T16:35:00.000-07:00

Looking solely at the elements of each kitchen, which do you prefer?

Yes, I realize this is a blind advertisement...try to look past the terrible quality.

Please leave a comment and tell me which you prefer.

Thanks!

Blessings,

Nora

Truths

2009-09-27T18:26:00.000-07:00

Your victory and theses truths are written in stone...

How different would your life be if you KNEW deep in your soul that your creator and heavenly father is...

He Is…..
The First and the Last
The Beginning and the end
The Keeper of creation
The Creator of all
He’s the Architect of the universe
And the Manager of all time
He always was, always is, and always will be.
Unmoved, unchanged, undefeated and never undone
He was bruised but brought healing,
He was pierced but eased pain,
He was persecuted but brought freedom
He was dead and brings life
He is risen to bring power
and He reigns to bring peace
The world can’t understand Him
Armies can’t defeat Him
Schools can’t explain Him
And leaders they can’t ignore Him
Herod couldn’t kill Him
Nero couldn’t crush Him
The new age can not replace Him
And Oprah can not explain Him away
You remind yourself that
He IS Life,
HE IS Love,
HE IS Longevity and He IS The LORD
HE IS Goodness, kindness, faithfulness
And HE IS GOD
HE IS holy and righteous
and powerful and pure
His ways are right,
His word eternal
His will unchanging
And His mind is on us
He is our savior, our guide,
our peace, our joy, our comfort
our Lord and He rules our lives,
I serve Him because His bond is love
His yoke is easy His burden is light
And His goal for us is abundant life.
I follow Him because,
He Is the wisdom of the wise
The Power of the powerful
The Ancient of days, the Ruler of rulers,
The Leader of all leaders,
His goal is a relationship with me
He will never leave you, never forsake you
never mislead you, never forget you,
never overlook you and
never cancel your appointment in

His appointment book...never!
When you fall He’ll lift you up,
When you fail He will forgive you.
When you're weak He’s strong,
When you're lost He’s your way
When you're afraid He is your courage,
When you stumble He will steady you,
When you're hurt He Is going to heal you,
When you're broken He will mend you,
When you're blind He will lead you,
When you're hungry He will feed you,
When you face trials He Is with you,
When I face persecution He shields me,
When I face problems He will comfort me,
When I face loss He will provide for me,
And when we face death
He will carry us all home to meet Him.
He is everything for everybody,
everywhere ,every time,
And in every way.
He is YOUR God
and that sisters is who YOU belong to!

These are some AMAZING truths spoken by Priscilla Shirer during the Anointed, Transformed, and Redeemed bible study that we just started at church last Thursday. When I heard them I immediatly knew I wanted to share these truths with you. Julie beat me to it, so thankfully I didn't have to search too hard. I pray that these truths become a reality in all our lives. I pray that we will live with confidence knowing that HE is on our side.

Blessings,

Nora

Honest Crap

2009-09-20T01:42:00.001-07:00

I changed the name from Honest Scrap to Honest Crap...Hope that's okay with you :)

Allegra and Tracy have both been huge blessings to me. I fell in love with their blogs separately and later learned they were cousins. I appreciate their honesty and friendship through this blogging world. I can not wait to meet these lovely ladies one day (hopefully soon)!

Here's what I'm supposed to do:

1.) Say thanks and give a link to the presenter of the award.
2.) Share "10 Honest Things" about myself.
3.) Present this award to 7 others whose blogs
I find brilliant in content and/or design, or those who have encouraged me.
4.) Tell those 7 people they've been awarded
HONEST SCRAP and inform them of these guidelines in receiving

Here goes...

1. I am a very honest person. If you ask me if something looks good on you and I don't think it does, you better believe that I will tell you.

2. I've had plastic surgery...not by choice. I suffered a bad sports accident that resorted to seven hours of reconstructive surgery, four metal plates, and a new orbital floor holding up my eye. LONG story...I will maybe get into it one of these days.

3. I have bits of OCD. Not really sure what you consider obsessive but let's just say I eat my food in even numbers.

4. I am currently loving all things Juicy. Perfume, clothes, accessories, etc.

5. I grew up thinking I was adopted. My family is VERY Irish...I do not look irish. They have the pale skin, freckles, green eyes, red hair. I don't. Growing up my older brother and sister used to tell me I was adopted. I believed them....One time our family was coming back into the US from Mexico. The border patrol asked me if they were my parents...I responded with "As far as I know". This of course led to secondary inspection. My mom to this day is still mad at me for that. I think she should be mad at my brother and sister for telling me I was adopted...It's not my fault I don't look like anyone in the family and believed my siblings. The first time I saw my birth certificate I seriously studied that thing up and down just to make sure.

6. My dad is my hero. There is not one thing about my him that I don't love. He is my safety and sanity.

7. I am not a girly girl. I just recently started wearing dresses. I think I only own two, but it's a start. I gave my childhood best friend a picture of me from a dance in high school. She freaked out because I was in a dress that was pink, and had makeup on.

8. I love ALL sports. It doesn't matter who is playing, what sport it is, I'll be watching.

9. I come from a LARGE family. My dad comes from a family of 8, my mom from a family of 6, and I a family of 4. I could not even tell you how many first cousins I have on my dads side. To me, the more the merrier.

10. I HATE HATE HATE when people keep their Christmas lights up year round. I'm sorry if you are one of these people. If you are, we can no longer be friends.

*I was tagged twice in this and instead of boring you with 20 honest tid bits about me, I thought I would share 10 and then leave you with song lyrics that sum me up quite well.

Tim McGraw

The Cowboy In Me

I don't know why I act the way I do

Like I ain't got a single thing to lose

Sometimes I'm my own worst enemy

I guess that's just the cowboy in me

I got a life that most would love to have

But sometimes I still wake up fightin' mad

At where this road I'm heading down might lead

I guess that's just the cowboy in me

The urge to run, the restlessness

The heart of stone I sometimes get

The things I've done for foolish pride

The me that's never satisfied

The face that's in the mirror when I don't like what I see

I guess that's just the cowboy in me

We ride and never worry about the fall

I guess that's just the cowboy in us all

*Now the fun part, I'm choosing to tag:

Tricia

Amber

Jessica

Blessings,

Nora

Don't Forget...

2009-09-11T21:09:00.000-07:00

Where Were You

Where were you when the world stopped turnin'that September day?

Out in the yard with your wife and children;

Or working on some stage in L.A.?

Did you stand there in shock at the sight of that black smoke

Rising against that blue sky?

Did you shout out in anger in fear for your neighbor

Or did you just sit down and cry?
Did you weep for the children that lost their dear loved ones?

Did you pray for the ones who don't know?

Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble

and sob for the ones left below?

Did you burst out in pride for the red white and blue

And the heroes who died just doin' what they do?

Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer?

And look at yourself for what really matters?

I'm just a singer of simple songs;

I'm not a real political man

I watch CNN, but I'm not sure I can tell you the difference

in Iraq and Iran

But I know Jesus and I talk to God

And I remember this from when I was young

Faith, Hope and Love are some good things He gave us

And the greatest is Love.

Where were you when the world stopped turning

That September day?

Teaching a class full of innocent children;

Driving down some cold interstate?

Did you feel guilty 'cause you're a survivor

in a crowded room did you feel alone?

Did you call up your mother and tell her you love her?

Did you dust off that bible at home?

Did you open your eyes hope it never happened;

And close your eyes and not go to sleep?

Did you notice the sunset the first time in ages;

Or speak to some stranger on the street?

Did you lay down at night and think of tomorrow;

Go out and buy you a gun?

Did you turn off that violent old movie you're watchin'

And turn on "I Love Lucy" reruns?

Did you go to a church and hold hands with some strangers?

Stand in line and give your own blood?

Did you just stay home and cling tight to your family

Thank God you had somebody to love?

I'm just a singer of simple songs;

I'm not a real political man

I watch CNN, but I'm not sure I can tell you the difference

in Iraq and Iran

But I know Jesus and I talk to God

And I remember this from when I was young

Faith, Hope and Love are some good things He gave us

And the greatest is Love.

I'm just a singer of simple songs;

I'm not a real political man

I watch CNN, but I'm not sure I can tell you the difference

in Iraq and Iran

But I know Jesus and I talk to God

And I remember this from when I was young

Faith, Hope and Love are some good things He gave us

And the greatest is Love.

Where were you when the world stopped turnin'that September day?

*Let us not forget that day*

Blessings,

Nora

It's Gonna Be Good

2009-07-13T23:55:00.000-07:00

Today blogging is coming to life. I get to meet Aubrey from Made You Blush. She is such a sweetheart via the internet and phone, I can't wait to meet her in person. We are going to meet at Cupcake Royale in Ballard. I have never been but heard that they have the best cupcakes in Seattle. We are both lovers of antiques and anything vintage so I'm sure there will be some of that too.
Hope you all have blessed days as well!
Nora

Two Things I Do Know

2009-07-07T21:58:00.001-07:00

One would think that picking out items to remodel your new house would be all fun. It can be fun, but it can be stressful too. I don't want to make the wrong decision. Two things I do know are that my new kitchen will have subway tile for the backsplash and a farmhouse/apron sink.
Here are some inspiration pics. of farmhouse sinks and subway tile.
Hope you enjoy!

Blessings,

Nora

Keep On Movin

2009-07-07T13:18:00.000-07:00

I love this song by Rodney Atkins. I think it is a good reminder to keep moving forward, even when the times are tough...

Well you know those times
When you feel like there's a sign there on your back
Says I don't mind if ya kick me
Seems like everybody has
Things go from bad to worse
You'd think they can't get worse than that
And then they do
You step off the straight and narrow
And you don't know where you are
Use the needle of your compass
To sew up your broken heart
Ask directions from a genie
In a bottle of Jim Beam
And she lies to you
That's when you learn the truth
If you're going through hell
Keep on going, don't slow down
If you're scared, don't show it
You might get out
Before the devil even knows you're there
Well I been deep down in that darkness
I been down to my last match
Felt a hundred different demons
Breathing fire down my back
And I knew that if I stumbled
I'd fall right into the trap that they were laying, yeah
But the good news
Is there's angels everywhere out on the street
Holding out a hand to pull you back up on your feet
The one's that you've been dragginig for so long
You're on your knees
You might as well be praying
Guess what I'm saying
If your going through hell
Keep on going, don't slow down
If you're scared don't show it
You might get out
Before the devil even knows you're there
Yeah, If you're going through hell
Keep on moving, face that fire
Walk right through it
You might get out
Before the devil even knows you're there
If you're going through hell
Keep on going, don't slow down
If you're scared don't show it
You might get out
Before the devil even knows you're there
Yeah, If you're going through hell
Keep on moving, face that fire
Walk right through it
You might get out
Before the devil even knows you're there
Yeah, you might get out
Before the devil even knows you're there.

You Never Know

2009-06-28T23:38:00.000-07:00

You never know when keeping a dream notebook will come in handy. I have a ton of pictures that I have been inspired by over the last few years. I didn't quite know what to do with them, so I finally decided to store them in an inspiration binder. I have it separated into different sections: Living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, baths, bedrooms, etc.
I never really thought I would actually use the photos but am happy to say that they are aiding me greatly in the design plans for our new home.
Here are a few photos from my dream binder...

Blessings,

Nora

Footprints

2009-06-24T14:19:00.000-07:00

Thank you Lord, that you love us so

much that you not only come along

side us, but carry us through the

tough waters of life.

Blessings,

Nora

My Beautiful New Home :) Update

2009-06-22T11:57:00.000-07:00

These are our next door neighbors on one side...

These are the next door neighbors on the other...

And this is our house... complete with a giant dumpster

Don't you love the lawn art?

This is my new kitchen...

Complete with half a water heater...yes, a water heater in the kitchen...

My lovely unfinished fireplace...

Stairs complete with nails sticking out...

Amazing master bath retreat...

More amazing master bath retreat...are you jealous yet?

My master bedroom...

Guest bathroom...

Another kitchen photo...

This are is where our built in eating nook will go...

Our cozy basement...

Another super safe staircase...

There are plenty more photos of our lovely new home, but I figured I would spare you.

Who wants to move in?

Blessings,

Nora

Farm Chicks Pics Galore

2009-06-08T14:29:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the Farm Chicks show Spokane WA June 6-7th 2009.
Warning:A TON of photos ahead...None of which have been edited for your viewing pleasure.

No one would pose with me :(

I really do wish that you all could have been there...let's start planning next year now!

Hope you enjoyed the first batch of photos :)

Blessings,

Nora

Home Sweet Home

2009-06-08T09:03:00.000-07:00

We had a great trip! It is also really good to be back home. I am working on uploading a TON of pictures. Right now they are being uploaded to Costco.com. I am hoping to update my blog by the end of the day. With the amount of pictures I took it will be just like you were there with me :)

Heading Out

2009-06-01T20:50:00.000-07:00

I'm leaving tomorrow after work. I can't wait! I will try and update but can't make any promises. I do however, promise to take TONS of pictures and post about it when I get home on Monday. Hope you all have blessed weekends!

Blessings,

Nora

Rate My Space

2009-05-31T14:30:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while I search through Rate My Space...This time I was looking for living room inspiration and found these photos from MoreDesign

I truly love all these spaces...

I love the clean serene feeling you get with this room. The white linens and damask pillows are to die for!

Such a beautiful wall color. The white plates also give the space a clean cottagey feel. The light is a Paris street lamp. How cool is that?

Love the continued clean fresh feeling with the white slip covers. Neutral colors never get old.

What's not to love about that pillow? Gives it an old world feel.

Love the mismatched chairs and different textiles. So different, but fit so well together.

This bathroom also has a sophisticated clean feeling.

I don't even know what to say about this space. The tiles around the fireplace are so amazing. Such a great way to draw attention in. All of the little details work so well together.

Another view of the dining room. The slip covered chairs really dress the area up nicely. Can't forget all the moulding and trim work. Really makes a huge difference in this room.

I would do a lot more reading if I had a beautiful space like that to sit and enjoy.

Once again another beautiful room. I love the cool green wall color and plates. It is amazing how much you can do with a plate! The white curtains give this space such a cozy feel.

Love the hollywood glamour look of this entryway table. The matching vintage lamps are great. Not to mention the CHANEL book. Every little detail is attended to.

Thank you for inspiring me with your spaces. They are my new favorites!

Do you have any favorite RateMySpacers?

Blessings,

Nora

Hydrangea Love

2009-05-31T09:01:00.000-07:00

My favorite flower is by far the hydrangea. From the sounds of your comments on my last post, you all love them too! I thought I would post some cute pics. of simple hydrangea center piece ideas...

image found here
I love the simple canning jar with a few hydrangeas. So cute and cottagey!

Image found here
The white buckets with numbers on them are so beautiful. Such a great way to assign seats.

image found here

Love the simple white hydrangeas in with the lime. The color contrast is so pretty!

Just a few photos that I love and thought you might also. Hope you're having a blessed weekend. I'm out to soak up some more sun!

Blessings,

Nora

No Words Are Enough...

2009-05-22T21:09:00.001-07:00

To thank the men and women that sacrifice their lives for the safety and security of our country.

Thank you...

Nora

Faithful Days

New Day, New Blog

Are They True?

A Long Journey...

Love This

Drawing Strength And Perspective

Grace

Feels Like Fall

Rain vs. Shine

Quote

Something Different

It's All About

Thoughts...

χαρις

χαρις: Greek for grace

Weekend Plans

Blue

Running Away...

It's Official...

Lyrics...

Staying Strong For Others...

Dance

Cottage Gardens

Down

Inspire

in·spire

Oasis

My Cry

Being Thankful

Heart Surgery

Choose

H.O.P.E.

Curveball

Change...

Wasted

Thoughts For The Day

In The Future...

Realness

Long Road

Dream A Dream

Home Depot...

One Simple??? Word

Revelation

Change In Perspective

Have I Lost My Marbles?

Worry Wart

I Heart It

You Know...

Vote

Truths

Honest Crap

Don't Forget...

It's Gonna Be Good

Two Things I Do Know

Keep On Movin

You Never Know

Footprints

My Beautiful New Home :) *Update*

Farm Chicks Pics Galore

Home Sweet Home

Heading Out

Rate My Space

Hydrangea Love

No Words Are Enough...

My Beautiful New Home :) Update