The world as it is today

Sometimes my head is really full of ideas. Sometimes- it is as empty as a Wal-Mart parking lot on Christmas morning. I can't decide what today is.

I have a lot of things to think about- but none I am overly excited to put into action. So, I sit here and wait for inspiration. And wait.  

How I dream to be a blogger/writer who is read from beyond my state lines. How I wish that I could make an impact on someones life from giving them advice. How I wish the Pinterest world would blow up (positively)  because of something I wrote.

These are just mere dreams though. In writing my blog, I have come to realize a few things.... There is always gonna be haters.- I would be lying if I said I didn't take a hiatus from here because of the drama I had to deal with about writing. Some people are just really mean. And ugly. And let me let you in on a little secret- God don't like ugly. He probably doesn't like bad grammar either. Oops...And to not lower my standard to that level, I chose to remain in the quiet.

Haters are a good thing to have around. It just fuels the fire for you to remain steadfast in your hopes and goals. Use your haters as motivators- (even if that does sound like it came straight out the hood).

Maybe the things I write about don't knock your socks off- and I am perfectly fine with that. Because of this reason: I don't write to impress you with words or stories- I write  because I want remember these points of enlightenment, frustration, happiness, and heartaches.  Maybe you think all of my posts are lame, and you might be correct about some (hindsight is 20-20), but I am ok with that.

I find myself wanting perfection so many times in life. And I am pretty sure I haven't hit that mark, ever. Not in 28 years on earth. Not in 6 years at my job. Not ever in any relationship that I have ever had- whether that be through my pets, friends, family, boyfriends, etc. I have to be reminded a lot- from my parents and my boss- that it isn't always going to be a pretty road, but I shouldn't give up from a setback. So even though I want to be selfish and have tons of followers, I know that sometimes that isn't a reality. This blog by no means is perfect- but thankfully I am not either.

Character is not defined by a moment. It is what you choose to do in those moments that show your true character. You can't do anything about the haters, but you can make yourself better. That mistake or messup is not the end. Trust me, ohh I am poster child of this. Find what you love- and go get your dreams.

So if you are here and reading this, thanks- it truly means a lot. Maybe one day I will write something you can identify with- or understand. Come back soon.

Thanks- Rachel

The Sovereignty of God vs. The Frailty of Man

It is amazing how much you can learn when you truly allow yourself to see things from God's perspective than your own. One thing that I think I could say that I have learned as of late- is that no matter what is going on in this world, your own personal life, or just in general- God is still in control.

I can find comfort in this. It has been a hard road for me to get to this point- but I know I had to learn this through a lot of difficult, uncertain, and confusing parts of my life.

Let me give you some definitions for you to better understand this.(Dictionary.com provided these)

Sovereignty: -the quality or state of being sovereign -the status, dominion, power, or authority of a sovereign; royalty.
-supreme and independent power or authority in government as possessed or claimed by a state or community.
-of God, his absolute right to do all things according to his own good pleasure

Sovereign -a person who has sovereign power or authority.
-a group or body of persons or a state having sovereign authority.
-having supreme rank, power, or authority.
-being above all others in character, importance, excellence, etc.
When I say this word- It is what I consider to be a "Big" word. There is power in it. God is sovereign- he is the highest ruler- he is above all others. Sovereign. It almost sounds like "So forever reign". And that is what it is really. Hold on to that thought.

Frailty: - moral weakness; liability to yield to temptation.
-a fault resulting from moral weakness: frailties of the human flesh

Weakness. Ever felt weak in your life? Think outside of the gym, not the box. Moral weakness. You gave in- you caved- you were broken.

Now piece them together:

The absolute right of God to be in control versus the times you are weak and give in, or the times when you just don't see a reason behind why you continue to do the things you know you should not do.

God's sovereignty far out weights our frailty. We are weak. We have faults.  We sometimes make decisions that do not just effect us, but others around us, and sometimes these choices has lasting consequences that we don't realize at the time.


You and I will always have the concept of frailty present in our lives. We are not Christ, therefore we are not perfect. We will mess up. We will make mistakes that don't seem that big of a deal at the time, and realize later on down the road, we could have done things differently.

But- we can have the peace that we are not defined by our mess ups- or the messups of others. Christ came to take away all of that- and to teach us that God is God- not man and he will be in control- regardless of what we try to do.

Sometimes, I think people confuse God's sovereignty with his holiness. The two are linked, but not the same. Sovereignty means God is in control. "He knows the plans he has for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future"- Jeremiah 21:11 He has those plans yes, and he will remain in control, regardless of your decision to follow them.

Holiness- is something we are commanded to be multiple times throughout the word of God. This is a major theme in Leviticus- said multiple times. Paul calls us God's holy people when discussing how we should conduct our lives (Ephesians 5:3). Peter says "As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.  But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:14-16),which is a direct reference back to parts in Leviticus 11:44,45; 19:2.


Get a hold of this now. We are called to be holy- that is our resolution to allow God to be manifest (to be obvious, to prove, make clear or evident) in our lives. For him to be so apparent that something in us is different- that it is real, attainable, and others can see it in us. We are not holy on our own, Christ blood is what gives us the opportunity to enter in "to the holy of holies" and be transformed by God working in our lives.

We are not called to be sovereign. Only God can hold that position. God is in control- always has been, always is, and always will be. You and I have no affect on this. We are not in control. As much as I would like to think I am, I fall short of this every time. I like order. I like to be in charge. Not so much the dictator, but I just am wired where I like to know what is going on.
 As many leaders and others that have gone before us, or are among us trying to be that one thing that controls everything- it just doesn't work. I look at the condition of this world that we are in, and the only thing that gives me comfort is- God is Sovereign.

God is sovereign in the times when we are at our lowest; when we feel like our country is surely bound for destruction; when we can't wrap our human minds around the evil that is present in our world; and when we just don't understand.

God is sovereign in all of the good times as well.

So forever reign. In the midst of chaos surrounding, God will forever reign. God is sovereign, even when your frailty as a human seems to take control of your life. 

The Things No One Tells You

I have learned a lot in my short 2 months of being engaged. It is truly and exciting time- but I'mma go 'head and tell you- sometimes it is REALLY not all that pretty. These are the few short things that I have learned that NO ONE told me. Maybe you can learn them from me if you are planning a wedding.

1. People say "it is your wedding, you can do whatever you want"- but that is not what the vendors say. On more than one occasion, I have had to snuff back little tears because someone told me the way I wanted it done- was not going to work. One time I did cry after the vendor left. And that was the first one we met with. You will hear more opinions of how you should do things than what you asked for. People will tell you the music you should dance to, the plates that look the best, the order of ceremony, the way you can and can't set up things, and that you HAVE TO HAVE this or it just wont be a wedding. I am making a few exceptions- but really I am not caving on what I want. Like a veil. My momma wants a veil- I dont. We will see what happens with this one. I have since learned to take people's suggestions, but if you really cant get over doing it your way, then you just firmly reply- that is not what I want or how I see it.

2. Everything isn't going to work out in real life as it works out in your head. I have had to change 3 of my original ideas because we couldnt find the right material, the "project" was too long and would take an eternity to complete, and because although it seemed like a good idea, it wouldn't really work effectivly. Thankfully- I have a fiance' that helps keep my meldowns small and makes suggestions for me when he sees I am about to lose it. Like with the fabric. I had in my perfect little mind exactly how these tables were going to look- and after a month and a half of searching for the right fabric, we ventured off to a warehouse in Covington. They had tons of fabric- and even the type I wanted- just not the color. Every other color- but not my color. I have since learned that my colors arent the poular ones this year- and that is a blessing and a curse. No one else will be doing what I am doing- but I can't hardly find what I want! Kevin picked out some awesome fabric- and I now know my wedding will be just that- not copied from anyone else's.

3. Pinterest lies sometimes. I LOVE Pinterest- don't get me wrong- I am on there every night before I go to bed filling my head with crafting dreams and ideas. But on the real- everything doesn't always turn out so easy and "I made this super quick"! It is more like- seriously am I ever going to see the light at the end of the tunnel? It also makes it look like wedding planning is BREEZE with all these cool things you can rent or download. Like the wedding cameras you rent and then they make videos for you. I read the fine print- and watched the videos- and I wasnt that impressed. And throwing sprinkles at a wedding sounds awesome- but did the people not think of ANTS? Really- not a good idea. Though I have learned a lot and we are using a few things from some pins- I am also trying to make our wedding different and fun.

4. Weddings cost a lot more than you really plan. Especially if you are DIY everything. See what you can borrow or ask around to see if someone knows someone that might have used similar items in their weddings. Really- don't reinvent the wheel- you will go broke over some special thing that could have been borrowed from someone else and created the same effect.

5. A lot of people won't be happy for you. We have run in to this a few times and it takes you back the first couple of times it happens. Just know that it is going to happen and you just have to smile and move on. And then go cry to your fiance' about it- and get over it. If someone isn't happy for you- you shouldn't allow them to steal your happiness.

6. In going along with #5, be prepared for close relatives and close friends to inform you that your wedding date is an inconvenience. My deddy said "Well, that's just two less mouths I have to feed". Take that mentality- please. If it is important to someone- they will make it a point to be there. If it isn't- they will make an excuse. And the ones who choose to share your special day with you will be richly blessed in sharing your wedding with you. The others- well they just have to see it in the nice pictures you paid for.

7. Don't forget to just have some "couple" time. Planning can be a full time job- I can see why so many girls take on this responsibility after they plan their own weddings. It is fun and exciting- but also time consuming. Make time to spend with your fiance'- because you won't be engaged forever- you can't get that time back.

8. Girls- work on the wedding everyday- but only talk about it on selected days with the Groom. This is better for everyone's stress level. We have set days we can talk about it and make plans- the rest of the time I am not supposed to mention it. Pick your days and stick with that. The groom and others will get tired of hearing about it- and you want SOME element of surprise there for the attendants. Just don't surprise the groom with a large purchase you didn't discuss.

9. Wedding dress shopping is one of the most exhausting things you will ever do. If you want something specific- I suggest you call places near you and see if they have that style first. I spent 2.5 hours my first time trying on dresses that were not what I wanted by the lady just wanted to see if it would work. Do NOT Compromise ON THE DRESS. I had a bad experience at David's Bridal- so I am not going to knock them terribly- but seriously- don't let that be your only place you visit. Between the snotty nose kid wiping his snot wrag on the mirror that I was having to look into- and the lady not listening when I was telling her what I wanted- and having to get dressed again and then go hunt for more dresses- it was just too much for me. Go to a nicer place if you want a more "tailored to you" experience. I knew I wasnt going to find my dress on the first time- because I know how picky I am. My second experience was muchhhh better. My consultant listened to exactly what I said I wanted- hunted for dresses for me- and stayed in the room to help zip and unzip me. Do this when you go:

1. Take a robe that you can wear when you are searching for dresses. It sucks putting back on jeans to go look for your second round of dresses- so take a robe to put on so you can walk around the store. (My second time shopping I did this and it made my life SO much easier).
2. Take a bottle of water. Trying on 15+ dresses makes you sweaty and tired.
3. Don't take your entire bridal party. Seriously- that is all the more opinions you have to listen to. I would say 2 max.
4. Print out 5 pictures max of styles you like. This gives a visual to the consultant. (I didnt take any- because I just wanted to go in there with a blank slate and my vision).
5. If you don't like chiffon roses- don't try on chiffon roses. My cousin told me this- and it was true. Don't true on something if you don't like the style or the cut or the embroidery. Seriously- you are wasting yout time.
6. Relax if you don't find what you are looking for. It exists, I know it does, just be patient and you will find it. I told the lady my budget and we tried lots of dresses in the style I wanted- and even retried on one. But it wasnt the one. You will know it when you try it on. Just like you knew your boyfriend was the one- and how your ring was the one- the dress works in this magic as well. The very last dress I tried on was the one I got. Don't listen to that nonsense about buying the first dress you try on. I intentionally tried on an ugly one just so I could say I didnt buy the first one I tried on.
7. Have fun with and and don't get to stressed. It isn't the defining moment of the wedding.

These are just a few things I have learned- I am sure there will be a second post to this after the wedding. Stay tuned for the next post.

The Dirty Thirt-een

13s are popping up all over my year this year- and I am hoping that my black cat bad luck doesn't win out. Maybe 2013 is going to be awesome this year. With that being said- here are my 13 goals- not so much resolutions- but 13 things I want to accomplish this year.

1. To make it a habit to get up and workout- not just for the wedding- at least 3 times a week. After the wedding, because right now it is pretty much everyday!

2. To read 13 books. This might sound lame, but I never read the Harry Potter books- but I have seen every movie- and LOVE them, so I want to take that challenge. After I finish this book Kevin asked me to read- Beyond the Badge.

3. To really get into my Bible like I did a long time ago and pick apart the word and really grasp what God is trying to teach me.

4. To pick back up my prayer journal and write out my prayers. I know I feel like I am much more in tune with staying focused when I write out my heart to God. Maybe this will allow me to get back on track with my life to have this piece consistent.

5. To invest in 13 people over the course of a year. I miss spending time with the youth girls I had and hope I can meet some new students at our new church. I also just want to find some new friends to hang out with.

6. To look the best I have ever looked on my wedding day. I only get one shot- and I will be danged I am not going to look back at my pictures and say- good grief why didn't I work out harder.

7. To make it a point to go to 13 different places this year. Whether in my state, region, or out of country- 13 new places.

8. To become a better crafter. I love my sewing machine- but I need to learn to use it to the fullest extent. I also need to organize my space in a way that is an environment that is inspiring. Let the decorating and organizing begin!

9. To pray for my fiance and when the time comes, my husband, specifically and intently. Not just a Please God bring him back home alive prayer, but prayers that will change his world, his being, and his mind. Prayers that he can have all the tools he needs to lead our family closer to the cross. Prayers that even when I am frustrated with him, that God would set him apart to do great and mighty things for the Lord. Prayers that give encouragement, light, and hope for when he is defeated. And most importantly, prayers that his relationship with the Lord would be far greater than any relationship he and I could ever have.

10. To walk my dogs at least 3 times a week. Seems easy to you- but you try walking The Calm, The Lazy, and The Crazy. One listens, one does not, and one refuses to walk or put on the collar. They just have to stay in "jail" all the time and I really need to make it a point to get them outside more.

11. To not live beyond my means. Up until October of last year- shopping was a HUGE part of me. I LOVE to shop. I love to shop for clothes. But- I told Kevin I wouldnt shop for clothes until Spring. I can honestly say- I didnt spend but $20 on myself for 3 months! I had to have a pair of shoes the day after Thanksgiving- but that is the only thing I bought for myself in THREE MONTHS. I dont think you realize how huge of a deal this is for me. It is quite epic honestly. I did break my rule and went shopping New Year's day because I had giftcards- and spent some money that wasnt on gift cards- but 2 dresses, 1 skirt, 3 shirts, and 2 pair of shoes for $50 counts as a win in my book. I will try and only go shopping when I have extra money- or a real need for something. It has been kind of interesting to see what outfits I can put together and repurpose. On with the thriftyness!

12. To have a better relationship with my family. Most importantly with my parents, but also to my extended family that is within an arm's reach. I need to visit more often and invest in my sweet cousins. I just need to come around more and not sit at home all the time.

13. The last one. I want to do something that is much greater than I can imagine. I do not yet know what this is, but I want to do experience something incredible. Set me up God, because your ways are better than mine.

There you have it folks. The dirty Thirt-een. Do you have a list? Make it happen.

A Day Late and a Dollar Short

If you know me- you know I am pretty much late to everything. EVERYTHING. I am sure my casket is going to get lost in travel and I will be late to my own funeral.

With that being said, I thought I would do a (late) year in review to sort of put things in perspective of how my life has changed. Sit back- oh- and expect more consistent posts all this month. I have been welling over with things to write about- so get ready.


January 2012
 January 4th- my world as I knew it got rocked to the core and I started the process of being single again.

January 12- My sweet dog, Winnie, my little dotted dachshund, passed away.

Needless to say- this was one of the worst months of my life. Just a lot of emotion and things I didnt ask for happened. I lost a lot of weight in a short amount of time.

February- I went to a Women's Conference with some friends and really tried to listen to what God was trying to teach me through this madness.

We celebrated White Cosby's 68th Birthday!

March- I went on a GET AWAY cruise to the Bahamas and had a great time with my friend Miranda!

April- This was a confusing month for me. Just a lot of emotions in an uncertain time. Wanting to do God's will- but also not giving up my own either.  I took NASTY fall hiking in a State Park. 8 months later I am still trying to treat this awful scar! My deddy was 4 years cancer free this month too. Praise the Lord!

May- My mom had a birthday. I have come to realize another birthday for anyone is a blessing.

June- A trip to the beach to visit my friend Alicea. 2 Yankees games. Being 10 feet away from Derek Jeter. An interview at The University of Alabama. A decision that I was going to be ok, regardless of what my situation was. A "yes" to a lunch date with an old friend. The month my life turned around. The start of the best love story ever.

July- A new move to a new townhouse. A July 4th on the lake all day. A few days in Helen GA with some of my closest friends and their kids. The realization that this guy was head over heels for me- and it was ok for me to be happy.

August-  Kevin got a promotion the latter part of July and his new rank started August 1st. Back to school for the college kiddies- yay for interaction again!The best birthday ever spent at the beach with my amazing dream come true of a boyfriend and my girls Elizabeth and Alicea. Kevin made turning 28 a breeze.

September- I don't remember anything big happening here- but I am sure there is something worth noting.

October- My first GA Southern Game- and most assuredly not the last.

November- November 16th- The man of my dreams asked me to spend the rest of my life with him. The next day I met all of his college buddies at my second GSU game- in Athens. A wonderful Thanksgiving with lots to be thankful for this year.

December- A lot of off days allowed for lots of planning for a big wedding coming in April of 2013. Some fun memories with my now Fiance (I am clearly not cool enough to know how to had the ' over the e, sorry. 4 Christmases in one day. Sounds like a movie or something. Started the new year with my sweet boy.

So- never in a million times a trillion years would I have thought I would be in the position I am in now. To go through a breakup- that I am still trying to figure out why it broke me so bad- to meeting the MAN of my dreams- to getting engaged and being under 100 days away from a wedding- is nearly impossible for me to wrap my human mind around. Thankfully- the Lord says   “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matt 19:26

In the past 6 months that Kevin and I have been together- we have learned much and are confident we will learn much more in the coming days. We have officially joined our new church- and we are so glad the search for that is OVER. God has us where he wants us- and we have already hit the ground running. Kevin gets to relive some of his high school glory by playing the drums- but this time for a much higher purpose. He is in the Praise band in our contemporary service. He loves it- and don't tell him this- but I know without a shadow of doubt in my mind- that God is taking great delight in his servant for answering the calling that was placed on his heart. I can see a little glimmer of excitement on his face every time he plays.

I have gotten involved in the Young Women's ministry and I can see that this group really does missions and really likes them. Yay! My heart is happy to be in a place where people WANT to work for the Lord- not just talk about it.

We have made new friends in our Sunday School class- yes we got what we asked for. A church with good music- Sunday school- and ministries.

We are so excited to start 2013 in our new church family. It has been a long time coming- but I know God had to work out the details before we could find a place to call home. So, here's to 2013- May the odds be ever in our favor.