My Heroes.

We all know that my family is just so very dear to my heart. I have lots to say about this today. I don't even know where to start... I think before I talk about my weekend I will talk about my parents. They are AMAZING. There are some things we really don't come to full realization of until adulthood. I wish I could see this clearer as a child. My parents work so incredibly hard. I am PROUD of where I come from- they make me proud. My mom and dad each came from big families; 6 kids and 5 kids respectively. My parents are each 1 of 2 kids of those families who have come out of poverty drug and alcohol- free and without criminal background. Not only that, but they are successful and humble. I am not one of those "kids" who thinks I'm "cool" because my parents "have money." Growing up I was always annoyed by the kids I went to school with who thought they were more important than others just because their parents could afford high end clothes, cars and homes. Lucky for me, when I was growing up my parents didn't have much. As a young child, my needs were met with the necessities, and Chris and I had best friends in one another to keep us occupied. We lacked nothing. Now they have much more and drive nice cars, but I don't feel cool because of the material possessions. I feel proud and impressed because of where my parents came from and where they are now as direct results of their work ethic, responsibility, humility, and my mother's trust in the Lord. Unlike myself, as young adults my parents had no one to "bail them out" when they faced financial hardship or illness. Their parents couldn't put a deposit in their checking account when things got hard. No one bought their first car for them or paid for their college education. They were raised with love and strong ethical values. As some of their siblings chose drugs, alcohol and other not so wise choices and lifestyles, they chose much more difficult routes of education, athletics and WORK. They made lives for themselves against all odds. I cannot express enough how truly amazed I am at who my parents are. I have been pondering how I may learn to have the same tenacious heart and attitude towards life that they do. I am so grateful for my grandparents who had no money but were/are wealthy with wisdom and passed it to my mom and dad who put those words into true action and rose above the odds against them growing up as black people in Dayton, Ohio.

Mom and Dad, you are my heroes!!!

Good Eats!

Quick Recipe

Since I have been sharing this recipe with my co-workers and it seems to be enjoyed, I thought I would share it on my blog too!

Below is a favorite that is quick, easy and tastes great reheated as well.

Season lean ground turkey with Mexican seasoning and chili powder

Place on medium heat in a saucepan

Add organic canned black beans

Add organic frozen corn

When meat is almost done, add organic chunky, medium salsa

Heat and stir until all ingredients are mixed well and cooked thoroughly

*it can be varied by putting on top of brown rice, or my favorite- topping with chopped avocado!

YUM!!!

I don’t enjoy dairy products but cheddar cheese, and sour cream may also make tasty toppings.

Filling in the blanks...

Not much to say on this one… I have so many questions for God… Some "blanks" that need to be filled in...


Today I am pondering God’s Will in my life. I am wondering how I am sure I hear His voice sometimes. I am longing to be obedient and wise and wondering why sometimes things don’t turn out the way they seem they will. Days like these can be frustrating but I am feeling increasingly determined to use it as a season of learning and a time to get to know the heart of God more. I want my desires to be His desires…

Over the past few months I have seen His grace abound in my life as I heal, grow, learn and seek Him. I want to trust that this will continue as I seek to trust Him in a deeper way.

My favorite childhood verse... Matthew 7:7... I am continuing to ask.

On a lighter note, I must say that I am really enjoying these beautiful, sunny, brisk, wintery days. Oregon is a beautiful place when it is not raining. I am grateful. 