God is Good

A king who did not believe in the goodness of God, had a slave who, in all
circumstances, said: My king, do not be discouraged, because everything God
does is perfect, no mistakes!

One day they went hunting and along the way a wild animal attacked the king.
His slave managed to kill the animal, but could not prevent his majesty
from losing a finger.

Furious and without showing his gratitude for being saved, the nobleman said
"Is God good? If He was good, I would not have been attacked and lost my
finger."

The slave replied: "My king, despite all these things, I can only tell you that God is good,
and he knows "why" of all these things. What God does is perfect. He is
never wrong!" Outraged by the response, the king ordered the arrest of his slave.

Later, he left for another hunt and was captured by savages who made human
sacrifices. In the altar, ready to sacrifice the nobleman, the savages found that the
victim had lost one of his fingers, so he was released. According to them, it
was not so complete to be offered to the gods.

Upon his return to the palace, he authorized the release of his slave that
he received very affectionately. "My dear, God was really good to me! I was almost killed by the wild men,
but for lack of a single finger, I was let go! But I have a question: if God
is so good, why did he allow me to put you in jail?"

"My King, if I had gone with you in this hunt, I would have been sacrificed
for you, because I have no missing finger therefore, remember everything God
does is perfect. He is never wrong."

Often we complain about life, and negative things that happen to us,
forgetting that nothing is random and that everything has a purpose.
Every morning, offer your day to God, don't be in a rush.

Ask God to inspire your thoughts, guide your actions, and ease your
feelings. And do not be afraid. God is never wrong!

You know why this message is for you? I do not know, but God knows, because
he never makes mistakes.......

The path of God and his word is perfect, without impurities. He is the way
of all those who trust in Him, as he says in 2 Samuel 22: 31

What you do with this message is up to you. May God put in your heart the
desire to send it to someone. God knows why He chose you to receive this
message. Please bless someone with it. God is never wrong.

Have a blessed day!

Twenty 11

This year has been good to me... God has been good to me.

New things that I LOVE:

1. My new last name, Bellamy.

2. My status as a non-student, working woman!

3. Cozy love nest in Bartlett, TN... definitely smaller in size, but so full of warmth and love.

4. Zebra print chairs for the new law office (thanks mom).

5. Light brown hair color with blonde highlights.

6. Bahama Breeze and Pei Wei - new favorite restaurants.

7. Pinterest.com! Dinners and craft projects have not been the same since...

8. Devotional book called, "Jesus Lives" by Sarah Young... always so "on point."

Old things that I miss:

1. Nashville and the praise team at Riverside SDA church.

2. Painting and teaching art classes weekly.

3. The false sense of security that came along with student loan refund checks and "free" meal points.

4. My camera! Like seriously... counting down the days until I can replace it.

5. Cable.

Things I'm glad I left behind:

1. Fear of failure.

Zealous Advocacy?

A stretch. I am all for finding the good in difficult situations, but I'm having a hard time with the scenario described in a NY Times article just released. An 18 year old boy committed suicide leaving behing pages and pages of "goodbys." Because he was an illegal immigrant who would not be able to attend college unless the DREAM act is passed, activists are using his story to demonstrate the pressures on immigrant youth. While I completely agree that the frustration of growing up in this country without legal status is incredible, it rubs me the wrong way that some are using a kid who committed suicide as a "political pawn" to advance the immigrant agenda. Tell me, after reading this article, what do you think? Is it zealous advocacy or just plain exaggeration of the facts?

The Friendship Conundrum

The Bible says that in order to have friends, we must show ourselves friendly. . . Why is it then that many "friendly" people often feel so lonely? Sure, we all have between 500-1,000 friends on FaceBook, but when something is going on and we need to vent or laugh... we are hard pressed for a true friend to call. This predicament seems to worsen as the years go by... Our lives are enriched by spouses and children and careers... all wonderful things! Still, sometimes, I feel the void of simple friendships. The friendships that are not tainted by insecurities and neglect... And herein lies the problem. Do you know the feeling of needing to call on a friend whom you've neglected. Only you can't bring yourself to pick up the phone because you keep thinking... "What will I say? It's been so long..." I do. I've been there. I haven't been very friendly lately, and changing that lazy cycle is one of my personal resolutions.

Since tomorrow is not promised, I'm going to start today by shouting out my BESTEST friends! Ready... set... go!

Honey, you are my number 2! Did you know that I'm in love with you? Even though, most nights I just want to cha ching you ;) Thanks for still being my friend even though I have periods every month and get extremely moody (yes this is a public blog, but 50% of Americans also have periods so its cool... they know what I'm talking about.) Mom, Grandma, and Mellena, you are my number 3s! I love you three girls so much its not even funny. You are my friends just as much as you are my family. World, let me tell you something about these girls. If you are broke, they will beg to be the ones to bail you out. Like... who does that?!? If you are hungry, they will sneak to your house with food because they know if they offer, you will respectfully refuse and just sit there with a growling stomach. Like, really??? Ugh... I have no more words. Jailyn and Candace, thanks for coming to see me tomorrow. I love you girls. You are loyal and slow to judge, generous, fun loving, and uplifting... I really need you in my life. Thank God for Oakwood because it brought us together. Devin Denise Jefferies. You are def one of the best! I have learned a lot from you... like the importance of shopping, hair care, and makeup. Don't mean to make you sound like a barbie doll, but well... lol. Seriously though, you have also been a source of encouragement on the job front. You are a smart and determined woman who is going very far. So proud of you! So happy that you're in my life :) Krystle, you are a selfless little something. You always put others first. When I think of you I feel like I have failed as a friend, but you're always there. You call on birthdays and help at weddings... you expect nothing in return, and you are always there. I promise, if you ever need me, I will be there back. Deanna, love your inspirational style! You are beautiful, talented, and smart, and I'm glad for the period of time where we were thick as thieves. Even though our paths are different now, I will always think of you as a sister. Danielle - girl you know I don't see you enough, but I'm always wishing you well and thinking of you. Stacie - you are my favorite comedian in all of Huntsville, AL. Love your spirit. Love that God put you in my family. Maeling, Fedoria, Toni Ann... you're wonderful inspirations to me. I seriously can't imagine life without being surrounded by such intelligent and ambitious women. I LOVE YOU ALL!

I'm going to end this shout out, assuming that my other friends don't actually read my blog. If you are a friend, and you read my blog, please let me know! I want to shout you out and tell you that I appreciate you! Most of all, I just want to know that you are reading because it's an encouragement as a writer. You can comment or subscribe, or just shoot me a private email (raquel.l.bellamy@gmail.com). If you are a stranger, take advantage of TODAY to tell your friends that you love them.

Now... to put this icing on the cake... the best part of Proverbs 18:24 is the sweet reminder that we have a friend "that sticks closer than a brother." Yes, I'm shouting out my number ONE friend, Jesus!

Snow Day, Slow Day

Ever feel like the weather is running the show? When its 60 degrees and sunny, you are Queen of Productivity! On snow days you find yourself staring out the window wondering why you aren't at home with a cup of hot coco. Today was one of those days...

As a business owner, lazy days directly translate to how much you can spend at the grocery store next month! Sleeping late can become a nasty habit leading to missed marketing opportunities and missed deadlines. Here are a few suggestions for breaking the cycle and maintaining self-discipline in spite of the weather...

1) Designate an official work space. If you have a Type A personality (like me), this is a no-brainer. Whether at "home" or at "work," you've got a desk neatly organized with writing tools, paper, a computer, and all the essentials for productivity. You are prepared to keep trucking even when you're trapped away from the office by a blizzard. For my Type B friends, your alternate workspace is a corner of the couch. Time for a change! The couch will not suffice when all around you, the world whispers "watch a little tv... sip a little joe... take a little nap."

2) Keep important contacts in your cell phone as well as the office Rolodex. Last week I found myself in quite the pickle... I needed to call an important client whose telephone number I had left at the office. No secretary to call... no partner or associate... just me. I had to drive 30 minutes in the rain (and you know I hate driving in the rain). Don't let yourself fall into this trap. More often than not, you will choose to stay at home and call the client later.

3) Have a cup of coffee... or Postum :) My SDA friends know all about Postum, a coffee substitute sold by Kraft Foods. Growing up, I thought coffee was as forbidden as drugs and alcohol. In law school, I had to change my thinking a bit. Sometimes, a little boost from caffeine can really change the game on productivity levels. If you are still not interested in drinking caffeine (which I respect), try snacks high in protein and magnesium like nuts and bananas.

4) Exercise. Instead of taking a nap (RESIST), how about taking a jog? A study presented by the American College of Sports Medicine showed that employees who used their company gym were more productive than other employees. Personally, after working out, I feel empowered to check more things off of my "To Do" list. In the same way, when I take a nap, I oddly feel even sleepier. So again, RESIST.

5) Call a colleague. Remind yourself that the rest of the world is at work, and if you want to be successful, you should be at work too.

Finally, remember the wise words of my dear friend Confucius:

"Find a job you love, and you'll never have to work a day in your life." I couldn't agree more. If you are happy with your career choice, you may actually find yourself itching to get up and go ...even on snow days.

Tortilla Soup

Today was just one of those icky, stay-at-home kinda days. The rain poured for hours... cold fast drops that slapped you in the face one-by-one. Unfortunately for me, I couldn't stay at home. I had to attend a 3 hour class. My drive downtown for the class was awful. You see, I drive a pretty "mature" car. She whines, and shakes, and doesn't de-fog windows in rainstorms! Sigh...It was pretty bad. I ended up hitting a pole in the parking garage *sigh again.*

Anywho, as a reward for enduring the weather (because I like rewarding myself for everything!), I came home and made a delicious tortilla soup! It was so yumolicious that I must share the recipe. Try it one wintery day. I pray your tummy and soul are warmed.

1 can black beans (rinsed)

2 14oz cans chicken broth

2 skinless boneless chicken breast (I secretly used canned chicken, shhh)

A little of this and that (sorry, I stopped measuring):

chopped onion

minced garlic

cumin

chilli powder, taco seasoning,

1 lemon (squeeze juice into the pot)

frozen corn

salsa

fresh cilantro

simmer chicken onion and garlic, throw everything into a pot, stir... Let simmer for 20 minutes.

Crunch some tortilla chips in the bottom of your bowl. Add soup. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and be warm and fuzzy inside.

Twenty. Five.

Ten years ago, the most important thing to me was not important at all. I can't remember one thing that I stressed about, not one. That's why today I celebrated simplicity. I sat still and breathed deeply. I prayed and baked and watched three movies. I did. not. stress.

I'd like to think I'm entering a new era of maturity, of focusing on what matters - the moment.

I started to write a post about my 25 desires for the future... but really, I want only one thing. I want to live in the will of God. God's will is something that I can't control. God's will is something I'll never fully understand. But, as frustrating as that can be, I am so overjoyed to know that no stress is required. I cannot plan a faster route or freak out about the minutia... I don't even know the destination! All I have to do is follow. And, trust that His plan is ALWAYS better than anything I could have come up with on my own.

Stolen wisdom from my Bermudian friend, Sook

The To-Do List Abyss

Gwen Smith

Today's Truth

Proverbs 31:17 (NIV) "She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks."

Friend To Friend

Many of us check off neatly penciled boxes. Some draw lines through the tasks we've finished. A select few of us even add tasks that we've already completed to our list so that we've got accurate accomplishment records at the end of the day! (Present company included!) Some of us keep track of what we need to do each day in our heads, while others track progress of daily goals electronically.

There are days I fluff up my list. Instead of simply writing, "Do three loads of laundry," I'll create twelve list items to check off that read:

• Wash whites
• Dry whites
• Fold/hang whites
• Put away whites
• Wash colors
• Dry colors
• Fold/hang colors
• Put away colors
• Wash darks
• Dry darks
• Fold/hang darks
• Put away darks

Oh, how I love to check boxes! Why? I want to be a productive woman. I want my work to matter. It's pretty much a daily struggle for me. As an eternal optimist, I wake up anticipating that the seconds, minutes, and hours of each day will bend to cooperate with the demands of my list.

Yeah, right.

I'm such a dreamer. It just never seems to work out that simply or efficiently.

I'm guessing that you are in this daily struggle with me. Right? No matter what it looks like, thinks like, or prints off like, many of us feel overwhelmed by the abyss of a rarely satisfied to-do list. We face constant demands that call to us and vie for our attention. We sift through the essentials and the fire drills, then we go to bed, wake up, and do it all again. The abyss of a to-do list can be so exhausting!

The good news is that we don't need to face our lists alone. God offers to come along side of us daily to provide the strength, perspective, and wisdom we need. He helps us prioritize our days when we turn to Him in prayer. In the Bible, we read of a woman who approached each day with God-power and God-perspective:

"She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks" (Proverbs 31:17, NIV).

Though this is an impressive statement about her work ethic and though it seems this fictional womandominates her daily to-do list, it's important to consider the source of her strength: God. At the end of the chapter, Scripture shows us that she "...fears the Lord..." (Proverbs 31:30, NIV). Her source of strength is rooted in faith and in her dependence on God. Ours should be, too.

Your list looks different from mine. We all have unique ministries, friendships, jobs, responsibilities, and families. Whether you are in the work force, unemployed, or retired or a stay-at-home mom, a single mom, or an empty nester - a wife, a widow, a single woman, or a divorcee - God can and will give you strength for each day when you prioritize Him and fear Him.

Consider the following verses:

"Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?" (Galatians 3:3, NIV).

"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint" (Isaiah 40:28-31, NIV).

God longs to strengthen your arms for the tasks on your to-do list today. Place time with Him as your first priority. Check your God-box. Go to Him now. Pray. Listen. Call on Him for direction, wisdom, renewal, and strength. Strong arms await you, girlfriend!

Let's Pray

God, I was created by You and for You. Please forgive me when I rush into a day without calling on You for my strength. I need you, Lord. Please prioritize my heart and my list today.

In Jesus' Name I pray,

Amen.

Now It's Your Turn

Read Proverbs 31:25-26: "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue."

How closely do you relate to the above verse?

What steps need to be taken in your life to move toward a deeper dependence on God's strength verses your own? Are you willing to go there? Take a moment to talk to God about it.

Open letter on Love and Marriage (with children)...

Today is a new day. We're not teens anymore... the dating scene has new players and many of them have divorces and children under their belts. For some reason, step-parenting is still taboo in the church (time to change... its all around us). Here are a couple pics of my favorite celebrity blended families (shamelessly silly I know):

Russell Simmons and his brood...

Kris Kardashian and her crowd...

Most single woman over 25 have been forced to broaden their views on what constitutes an "eligible bachelor." If you are still in the bunch saying "I'll never date a divorced man or a man with kids'" ...then good luck with that one!

This morning, I got a text message from a friend looking for advice on dating a man with children... She asked SO MANY good questions that I have to share my response with you. I applaud her openness in seeking advice. I encourage you to share this with your friends considering the role of step-motherhood...

Disclaimer: This is definitely a work-in-progress! I'm interested to hear if you agree or disagree with the advice that I shared, so feel free to give feedback...

Dear friend:

To answer your questions -

First Q - how to make it work and get to the point of saying I DO?

I know that God led us together and brought us to the point of saying I DO. Sometimes, with relationships, success comes in NOT planning and simply trusting God's will and just living your life. If He wants you to be in love with your boyfriend and eventually get married, He will make that so plain to you that you have no choice but to follow Him.

Next Q - how to plan quality time?

When we first met, Chris had custody of the kids every other week! This meant that often, I could only hang out with him every other week! I was very anxious about spending time with him. I would even shamefully get a little jealous of the time he had to spend with the kids. But you have to:

1. realize that a father spending time with his kids is invaluable, so appreciate what he is doing and have patience;

2. realize that because you are dating a man with kids, you are going to get LESS QT than you would with a man without kids. If you are really needy, and you love attention like that, then you may want to reconsider. You dont want to come between a father and his children. You can be a blessing to all of them if you have patience and are willing to share your man with his children.

3. realize that in time, if it's Gods will, you will get married and be a family. With patience, you will get to the point where you dont have to share him like that because you will all be spending time together for the most part.

Next Q - how to keep your relationship healthy and spiritually rooted?

Keeping your relationship wholesome can be a challenge. One great quote is "Feed the Spirit, starve the flesh." This means, introduce positive things into your relationship - good music, christian activities, christian couples to hang out with, devotion, spiritual conversation, etc. Starve the flesh means be smart about avoiding compromising situations. This is all very generic advice, but we can talk in person on this one more if you want... Great question!

Next Q - how long to wait before meeting the kids?

I suggest meeting children before you officially start dating. They called me Ms. Raquel (to show respect) and I was introduced as "daddy's friend." This was important for several reasons:

(1) if you are going to date a man with kids, then you are going to also be in a relationship with the kids. You are not simply deciding that you like the man. You must also decide if you like the way he has raised his children, and want to be in their lives...

(2) I made sure that the meeting was interactive and not just a date with me and chris with the kids on the side... We went swimming and played video games (do stuff that they like to do). That initial meeting will often shape the way the children feel about you in the future. Try not monopolize their dad's time. Also, dont try super hard to impress them and be all in their faces... in the future that kind of behavior will set the wrong precedent.

(3) At the end of the afternoon I went home - gotta keep things appropriate to be a good example. One day they may be your step-kids, and you wouldn't want them to stay out late over a new boyfriend or girlfriend's house etc...

There is so much I could say about meeting the kids -

- Be patient. Decide if you want to be in his life seriously before he introduces you as his girlfriend. You dont want the kids to grow up with a warped sense of dating because they saw daddy date every girl on the block....

Next Q: how do you handle Mama Drama?

- we didn't have any AT ALL. This is important. Chris established and set the tone from the very beginning. He has a relationship with his children that is familial and loving and interactive and permanent. He has a relationship with their mother that is cordial and respectful, temporary (until the kids are 18) and has boundaries (no midnight calling/texting/screaming/fighting/foolishness). Its important that he convey this to the mother of his children because the way that he treats her will dictate the way that she treats you. When I first met the kid's mom, we hugged and chatted a little.... of course it was awkward. BUT there was no disrespect or drama, and that's the important part.

Last Q - how did you come to terms with dating a man with 3 kids

EG White writes about how step children are a blessing to wives. It's pretty deep. If you want to read it, I will share my copy of Adventist Home with you. Honestly, it took a LONG TIME to realize that the children were my blessing. I kept a lot of the doubt and confusion to myself (important... Telling all your friends and family if you're embarrassed or ashamed can hurt your relationship. It is sacred, so talk to each other. Its ok to share feelings with a trusted friend... but in the future, when you have come to terms with it, you dont want the whole community to look at you thinking about the negative feelings that you used to have).

I learned with time to present the kids to people positively because they are my blessing. When I introduced the kids to my extended family, they got a warm welcome because my family felt that I warmly welcomed them into my heart. If you marry this man, you will be their mommy too. You have to protect them from embarrassment and hurt... that's your job. So, practice being strong and not ashamed. Love and family is not at all about natural born children v. children inherited by marriage... It's about love and family, period. Family is what you make it.

Hope that helps a little. Call me anytime you just need to talk... I know what you're going through.

Raquel

By God's Grace...

I graduated from Vanderbilt University Law School.

I got an internship at the Federal Public Defender's Office to begin in September.

I am officially registered for BARBRI and taking the TN Bar.

I have been studying all day every day since my decision 48 hours ago!

I am thrilled to watch as God unfolds His plan for my life.

I have not lost my faith... and that is all folks! I'll be back to blogging (hopefully) in August!

Just a few more miles...

Today at noon I plan to hit "SEND" on my last email to a professor (as their student).... My LAST project for a grade and not a check!

Whew! ...It's quite overwhelming, and joyous, and exciting... and depressing. Why today of all days am I so discouraged? Sigh.

I have just a few more miles to the finish line, and that should make me happy. Instead I am overcome by the fear of what's on the other side of the line. No job... Sallie Mae... and another signed lease for an apartment in Nashville (a city that I'm ready to leave).

I'm sharing this because in spite of it all I'm hopeful and confident in my God, my husband (thank you Lord for Christopher), and myself. Someone reading this may be going through the same thing... Remember that God will never leave you nor forsake you, even when your friends and family aren't understanding or supportive. Remember that God's plan is greater than any plan that you could conjure on your own. Remember that He won't put more on you than you can bear, and that your bread and water will be sure. These verses never get old to me, because God's the same yesterday today and forever. He brought you this far... keep on striving until you reach your goal.

Trying to be a better servant.

Yesterday, my husband and I prayed for the Lord to reveal avenues for us to be servants. God desires that we love Him with all our hearts, AND serve Him with our whole lives. We've got the loving part down no doubt... but... honestly, there is room for improvement when it comes to service. Today's devotional (sent by my friend Brandon Rose) gave the perfect [simple] way to be a better servant - reading the word, living the word, and speaking openly about Scripture in conversation. Next time you are conversing with someone who needs encouragement, share Christ by sharing scriptures that encourage you. The Holy Spirit, through your words, will do the rest.

Read the full devotional below:

Deuteronomy 11:18-19 (NIV) ¹⁸Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. ¹⁹Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

The Jews took this quite literally. Even today at the Western Wall you can see them fix the Scripture Boxes (phylacteries) to their foreheads and wrap their arms. Almost every home has a Scripture container on the doorframe.

There was a time in the USA when people included portions of Scripture in their daily conversation. The Bible was read daily by many, and many of our old expressions come from Scripture. That trend has all but died out. We rarely speak in the expressions of the Bible, and are even mocked when we quote Scripture. That shouldn't bother us though. The word of God is powerful and living and will accomplish God's purposes. If we speak the Scripture that God lays on our heart during a conversation, it will surely do its work.

For the Holy Spirit to bring it to memory, we should be reading it DAILY. We should be taking unhurried time to dwell on a passage. We should be memorizing it. Then it can be brought to our minds to be effective for us and for those with whom we communicate.

We have a duty to model this for our children, and teach them to do the same. The passage here is a good pointer for morning and evening devotions. The word should start AND end our day. It should also be a topic during the day.

Consider: How far are you from God's request? What will you do to change th

It's a New Day and God is Still Good...

Well, Teach for America says that I'm [not a good fit].

I'm reminded that God's plan for my life is greater, far greater than any plan I come up with.

Yesterday, it rained and stormed... I received bad news and was discouraged.... today the sun is shining and I'm inspired by my new-found freedom to explore opportunities. God is still good...

Taking pictures

Check me and my hubby!

RaChImages.blogspot.com

On working in a Corporate Law Firm:

"Not for me. Breaking my life into 6 minute increments is the biggest waste of my life."

~ a classmate.

Change.

Once upon a time we talked to friends on telephones...

Now we blog to the universe. If we're lucky, our friends may read and reply.

Once upon a time, through a letter... a conversation over tea... a slumber party.... we unfolded our feelings.

Now we tweet every passing thought... to the universe.

We used to celebrate great acting on television. Lucille Ball.

We now celebrate reality, as if a trip to the convenience store is news worthy. Kim Kardashian.

OMG and LOL are in the dictionary.

Sometimes I really think I miss the old days... but I'm into Keeping up with the kardashians and blogspot.com. I Facebook and one day I may tweet... I say OMG at least 10 times a day, and I text much more than I call.

I suppose tonight I'm just feeling the growing pains of CHANGE.

God Restores, Let Him

I used to think that people who sat in church and scribbled notes furiously were either 1) bored and trying to stay awake, 2) showy and trying to impress their neighbors with their display of righteousness, or 3) just dramatic... you know the shout-hallelujah-hop-all-around-the-sanctuary-waving-their-hand-and-screaming types... Wow! Praise God for spiritual growth and maturity. I was that person this Sabbath - notebook in hand, hand involuntarily lifted and uttering the occasional hallelujah and amen. The sermon was on point, and the pastor referenced a passage that we'd meditated on just a few days before...

Hebrews 11 - GOD's Faith Hall of Fame. If you haven't yet been introduced - its awesome! The writer goes through a list of heavy hitters who did illogical things based on faith and were rewarded... I mean, things that make you seem silly for doubting God and hesitating to keep the simple commands that we struggle with today. My favorite part of that passage comes in verse 32, when the writer basically says

What more can I say? I don't even have time to tell you about Gideon, Barak, Samson.... and the list goes on!

If you are struggling to believe, just try it and be encouraged.

I digress... This Sabbath, my blessing came from the sweet reminder that God restores.This means that if you've been broken (hurt, embarrassed, injured, abandoned), if you've ever yielded to sinful temptation, if you've ever drifted away from your relationship with the Lord... its ok. He wants to restore the joy and peace in your life. His yolk is easy and His burden is light. But here's the thing - we have to let Him. Did you know that we have the power to block our own blessing? Let Him change your life from sad to glad again. Its awesome.

A Good Time

... is often as simple as driving the extra mile to Publix even though you'll pass Kroger and Walmart on the way. I did that last Friday, and was so inspired by the clean floors and pleasant smiles that I bought things I never would have considered in another grocery store. Things like strawberries and peach preserves. I bought Pillsbury flaky croissant rolls and almond paste. Sometimes, all you need to have a good time, is to slow down in the middle of the grocery store and google a new recipe on your cell phone. I did that during my Publix trip... and later that night I came up with this!!!!

Dessert pizza! (actually pretty tasty)

Of course I also had to grab out-of-the norm toppings for the dinner pizza as well... Tried turkey pepperoni for the first time (thanks to Chris) and it was delish!

This is my boo, doing his thug thizzle in the kitchen with the pizza dough!

notice that his half (L) has meat and cheese while mine (R) has more refined ingredients like spinach and feta....

Our generous hosts and great friends!

It certainly pays to be easy to please! For me, that extra mile and a few fruits and veggies just made my night!

Spring in Bellevue

For Engaged Girls...

11 tips ...because I just married my best friend, and it was great! ...because the excitement is still hard to contain, and the details are still fresh. ...because when I was a bride-to-be, I asked recent brides for their best advice.

Here goes... Take em, or leave em! (They are in no particular order)

1. Involve your fiance enough to let him know that it's his day too. Listen. Incorporate the things that are important to him. It actually is his day too. Exclude him enough to get the job done. ALWAYS keep the lines of communication open.

2. Only spend what you have. It's ok to go over budget a little here and there, but think hard before you go into debt. After the day is done, you'll still be married. (How to stay in budget - prioritize your list with "must haves" at the top. Don't be afraid to chop the things on the bottom of the list when the money runs out).

3. DIY projects: only for creative brides with lots of free time. No experimenting with new craft/makeup/hair/sewing projects on your wedding day.

4. Only put things on your gift registry that you actually want.

5. DO NOT skimp on the money that you spend on your dress (unless that's just not your thing).

6. DO NOT skimp on the money that you spend on your photographer. Period. The pictures (and videos) are the only things that will last beyond the day. Great photos can make an inexpensive wedding look like a million bucks. A wack photographer can make your million dollar wedding look like hot cheese.

7. Be calm, respectful, and polite to all who are involved in helping you. Be gracious and properly thank people who were awesome during the process.

8. Keep God first in your relationship. Don't let the wedding-planning come before having worship with your boo, going on dates together, and being loving towards each other.

9. Don't send out invitations with a date and venue listed before you actually book the venue on that date... and don't start announcing a venue before you are certain that it's THE ONE (that you can afford and that you LOVE).

10. PACK YOUR WEDDING WEEKEND BAG like two weeks before the big day. Underwear, cute changes of clothes, socks, makeup... everything! If you're spending the weekend in a hotel, you don't want to be scattered all over the city trying to find your things. The last few days will be a whirlwind!

11. Remember why you are planning a wedding - its not for the wedding day, its for the marriage. So, don't sweat the small stuff!

Congratulations! You'll be beautiful! Smile pretty :) Everybody is taking your picture.

What am I going to do after I graduate?!?

That's what everyone is wondering...

Just a few years ago, a student at a T1 law school would win any bet on having a firm job. At firms big and small, 1st year associates were welcome... money was flowing. Now, things have changed. Thankfully, God has a plan for my life - one greater than any plan that I could come up with on my own. For those who do not rest in that sweet confidence, this is a very stressful time.

This month's ABA Journal included a story about a law student who decided to create (or rather, modify) an online bidding service where clients can select lawyers who bid the lowest rate hoping to get some work! Pretty sad that we have resorted to "E-bay lawyering..." Still, I say kudos to the kid who came up with it. It's time to embrace the change in times and think outside the box. I'm thinking of teaching and business and art... Not because I am afraid of the law. I'm actually grateful for the recession which has given me an "excuse" for boldly switching gears.

For anyone who considers harshly judging a graduating law student who has chosen a different path... think again (after reading some stats on the job market).

Perspective: Spring at Vanderbilt

Photography is more about creativity and perspective than equipment or "skill." The photographer's eye is trained to aim from artistic angles to capture depth in a flat frame... trained to compose a photo so that the simplest of subjects can be interesting... The great photographer's mind is bright and ever active.

Oh to be...

I am blessed to study on such a beautiful campus!

Love love love the cherry blossoms!!!

God is the master artist!!!

Love photos of things in a row for some reason... I always think that there is meaning in seeing the whole picture instead of focusing on the one tree or "thing" in front of you...

Finally learned how to focus and blur the background!

These next shots make me nostalgic in advance... these are my final days in school! (probably forever!!!)

I am such a HUGE fan of cherry blossoms and dogwoods... Shameful that we only have them for a short time at the beginning of the year.

This is depth.

Raquel Buzz Words... and thoughts to follow them.

Law School: over in 56 days. Hallelujah!

New husband: at work... I miss him.

Photography: difficult, but exciting. I recognize my need for training and practice.

Work: I am boss. If I work for a traditional employer, then I am my boss with only one client. My ideal is to be a boss with many clients. Excited to see where that goes...

Art: still intriguing.

Immigration: still intriguing...

Money: necessary evil.

The "funnest" day of my life...

in photos.

...so far marriage is just sugary sweet!

Who am I? Why am I here?

Challenge: to write about my the topic (title) in 140 words or less, with wide latitude on interpreting the topic...  Professor's tips: "No extraneous BS!!! No fluff!!! Make it interesting and funny! Remember your audience!!! ME!"

Context: First assignment in an interesting (to say the least) "Effective Writing" class.

Setting: Panera Bread Company.... mid-morning after the breakfast rush and before the lunch crowd... in front of a deliciously warm jalepeno egg and cheese bagel and a small (VERY small) cup of orange  juice...

Finished Product:

I have only 34 more days as “bride-to-be!” My life is filled with love songs, flowers, dresses, and phone calls from mommy with new ideas. “Kell! Check out this new shade of violet.” Oh the joys!


… Oh the stress! I’m counting down the days and the dollars drained from my account for caterers to feed uncle so-an-so and aunt what’s-her-face... I’m counting the times my fiancé said, “Baby let’s just elope?” I can’t even remember the reasons against it that I once spouted freely.

So, I’m here. I’m maintaining sanity. Between working as an art instructor and finishing law school, I have managed to avoid that sad stupor of bridezilla-ism. No watching re-runs of “Say Yes to the Dress” for me. True love is the hustle of learning, working, and being the organized superwoman that I think I am.

What do you think? Success?

Love Lesson from Lombard Rd.

This weekend I let my photography-bug run wild as my Honey and I traveled to Cousin Frank's for pre-marital counseling and family time... Here are the fruits of my hard labor :) Can't wait to see my improvement at the end of this ten week photography class!

My favorite take-aways from our first session left me feeling more confident that taking this "plunge" is a gift from God. To find a companion who doesn't complete you, but instead adds to your completeness and loves your soul, not just your physical appearance and temporal beauty....wow. It's breath-taking... I'm thinking of all the ways that I can do little things that aren't expected of me so that Chris always knows how much I cherish being his wife (in THIRTY FOUR DAYS!!!)

Can you tell? I'm just a tad excited to marry this man!

Art

Tragedies are commonplace....

all kind of diseases, people are slipping away...

...as for me all I can say is THANK YOU LORD for all you've done for me....

...YOU'LL be my PROTECTION every step of the way.... and I wanna say THANK YOU LORD!!! for all you've done for me....

This is the song in my heart tonight. Its a Walter Hawkins gospel tune... the verses are sitting heavy on my heart right now.  I'm Grateful, so truly grateful...

Tonight I witnessed the most horrific scene of my life. I worked at the art gallery assisting a class of about 80 people as they painted a red cross. I watched some of them as they painted the cross... thought silently about some of the irony in it... the painting was called "Faith" and represented Christ's sacrifice and promise... I wondered if any of the artists pondered the meaning of their work. Long night... I was tired and so ready for Chris to come pick me up... chatted with my coworkers. ....Hopped in the car a few minutes later and got caught up on the evening with my love... I think I had a slight attitude about him showing up a few minutes late... I was riding beside him in silence, cold.... it was 14 degrees out tonight...

In the next moment, a silver Mini Cooper flew past us. I was actually relieved to say "man that car was flying..." It kind of broke our silence... The little car had to be going at least 100 mph... Too fast... so fast that I instantly knew it was going to crash into something... "Lord please, Jesus please, Chris he is going to crash..." Chris slowed down so that we wouldn't be target when he spun out of control... and the rest was like watching a movie in slow motion.... The mini sped swerving toward a median dividing the highway from an exit... I imagine the driver thought "this is my turn... or is it? do I take the exit... Oh man I'm going too fast... stay on the highway.... get it together man.."

He slammed into the concrete median at full speed, flew into the air, instantly caught on fire and landed upside down.

That coulda been me.

We pulled over and called 911. I stayed in the car and prayed. Chris ran to help... Afterward I learned that the driver lived, for a while at least... A man heroically pulled the driver out of the flaming car. Chris helped the man pull the driver to safety and remove his fiery clothes. He used my blanket to help beat the fire off of his reddened body. The man lay fully naked, not a hair left anywhere on his exposed body in 14 degree weather... alive. We, along with many other witnesses, waited for rescue crews. The flames from the fiery car bellowed into at least two lanes of the highway and sent up a monstrous ribbon of gray smoke that covered the other two lanes and filled the sky.

It was horrific.

For Chris, the strangest and most memorable thing about this accident was the cold silence... there were no screams and no cries. Aside from the crackles and pops that escaped the car as it burned, the hushed whisper of the spectators (most of whom were speechless)... there was nothing to hear. The driver's screams were silent because his lungs were on fire.

On the way home... I thought about how silly it was to be upset that Chris was late. I thought about the fact that not one of us has any control over life or death... we just have to live as if today were our last day on this earth. I thought about how undeserving I am to be here - how grateful I am for God's grace and mercy. I'm here, beside my honey, proud of him for always being a valiant first responder (this is the third time I have witnessed an accident with Chris in the short time that I have loved him. Before meeting Chris, I had never witnessed an accident. I know that ministering to those in emergency situations is his calling).

Tonight left me clinging to the joys of life.

For the Love of Money

"Finding something [a career, a hobby, a life partner] that you truly love is a million times better than finding something that will make you rich...."

Do you believe this? I do.

"Do what you love, and the money will follow..."

Do you believe this? The jury is still out for me.

Afterall, if I love giving away food and clothes to those in need, there is a great chance that absolutely no money will follow no matter how good I become at it. But, at the end of the day, does it really matter? The difference between the first principle and the second is the central focus for the person contemplating it - is your focus true happiness or money?

Before answering, remember that you can't take any of it with you when you're gone. Would you rather look back over your life knowing that you enjoyed your career and your family, or would you rather look back knowing that inspite of not following a more desireable path, you earned incredible amounts of money and protected all of your assets from others?

Its a no-brainer for me...