Rest and Relaxation...

John and I drove down to Hilton Head Island on Friday morning.  My in-laws live there and seriously live in paradise.  Their home is better than any 5-star resort on the island and you just can't help but to relax there....After a few LONG weeks, HHI was the perfect mini-vacay for our little family.  We piled our stuff and Noe in the car and braved the torturous-but-worth-it 10 hour drive.

Ruthie and Jeff were a few hours behind us in one car, while Hannah and Mike hit the road in their car.  Seems ridiculous that we didn't all carpool but we all left home on different days/different times.  Ruthie rode home with us on Tuesday morning and slept 8 out of the 10 hours :)  That girl can sleep anywhere at any given time.  Jealous.  Caroline and Alex met us there Friday evening from Columbia, SC.

We went to HHI for Hannah and Mike's couples shower to celebrate their upcoming wedding.  It was a lot of fun with great friends and amazing food.  The Peters know how to throw a good party; that's for sure!  We also celebrate Big John's birthday on Sunday after he was ordained as a Deacon of their church...so proud of him.

The weekend was full of laughter, memories, relaxation, and sunshine. It was 75 degrees on the day we left (of course) and was hard to head back up to Maryland! Though, I can't complain - it's 64 degrees here today.  Back to the cold the rest of the week, after today, though.  I'm so over the cold already and it hasn't really even hit the "cold" yet up here (except for a few days).  Take me back to the sunshine!

Enjoy a few pictures from our trip!

Thanks for walking with us,
JL

you lead, i'll follow...

A couple days ago, I opened up my computer to receive an encouraging email from my father in law (I hate to call him this because he really is like a full-fledge father to me, not an "in-law" but whatever).  JUST so you get the picture, I used the term.  So, anywho, he forwarded all of us (the kids) an email of Rick Warren's Daily Hope (devotional).  He often sends them to us when he gets a good one.  Take a minute to read the following:

But God in his grace chose me even before I was born, and called me to serve him. Galatians 1:15a 

Pastor Rick has been teaching us about the way God calls us into his plans for our lives.

Your calling is a gift from God. He doesn’t call a few select saints to serve him. “[God] first save[s] us and then call[s] us to this holy work. We had nothing to do with it. It was all his idea, a gift prepared for us in Jesus long before we knew anything about it”. (2 Timothy 1:9 MSG)

This means ordinary people with children and jobs and mortgages and really, really full calendars — in other words, people just like you and me — are called to be ministers from God.

The Bible teaches that every Christian is:

• Created for ministry (Ephesians 2:10)
• Saved for ministry (2 Timothy 1:9)
• Called into ministry (1 Peter 2:9-10)
• Gifted for ministry (1 Peter 4:10)
• Authorized for ministry (Matthew 28:18–20)
• Commanded to minister (Matthew 20:26–28)
• Prepared for ministry (Ephesians 4:11–12)
• Needed for ministry (1 Corinthians 12:27)
• Accountable for and rewarded according to his or her ministry (Colossians 3:23–24)

You are among “the ones chosen by God, chosen for the high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, God’s instruments to do his work and speak out for him, to tell others of the night-and-day difference he made for you . . .” (1 Peter 2:9 MSG).

Talk about it -

• God shaped you for ministry. The God of the universe shaped you uniquely to make a contribution in this world and the world to come.
• God will support you in ministry. There is no way you can fail in your mission unless you fail to accept the calling.
• God will answer your questions. Ask God how he wants you to contribute. Ask him how he wants to use the way he’s created you to uniquely serve him. Ask God, “What kind of God-legacy do you want me to leave?”

So, basically in a nutshell, in case you were lazy with a capital L and didn't read through it, we are ALL called to minister in some way or another in this ONE life we've been given on earth.  We each have a gift (maybe you have multiple) that we are given specifically to serve Him.  No specific gift is greater than another - I used to believe that; trust me! I have a sister, brother in law, and 4 nieces and nephews that have served over seas for YEARS (yes, raising their 4 young children for their entire childhood in a foreign country - which they call "home").  So, it always seemed to me that her work was FAR greater than anything I could ever do in serving.  Nope, nada, zip, incorrect, NOT TRUE!  We are each given specific gifts and callings to worship Him, love Him, praise Him, minister, spread His name to all nations, and live a life ALL for Him.

Whenever I've been asked what my gift is, my mind goes straight to children.  I've spent my whole life with a passion for loving babies, toddlers, and children that grow into amazing young adults (yes - watching the process and being involved in it makes me feel o-l-d. - but that's another emotional and sappy story).  Back on topic.  I've been a huge part (if I do say so myself) of MANY babies and toddlers lives on into their elementary years which are HUGE developmental years for a human being.  It really hit me one day, the impact I have on many children's lives.  Melanie Tharrington, mom of Maddie, who I've logged hours on end watching and playing with since I was 12 and she was 6 months old, yes - she left me with her 6 month old at 12 years old).  We both laugh about it to this day, but come to the agreement that it was "just different."  I was like a 18 year old trapped in a 12 year old's body.  I've always been like that.  ("wise beyond my years" as my sister in law ruthie JUST told me last night as we were talking on the phone). Yeah, yeah, whatever.  But it's true.  I've always been friends with people older than me and just connected with them.  Okay, back on topic, Jackie-Lane.  (Do you like how I just type exactly how my mind is thinking?)  Maddie's mom told me just a year or so ago that Maddie was at school (or a little-bible-study with school friends) and was asked who one of the most influential people in her life (spiritually) has been, and you know what she said? "Miss Jackie-Lane."  I wasn't even there! But I can assure you when Melanie told me that, I started tearing up big time.  What an impact that story has made on me and will never leave me as long as I live.

Maddie at my bridal shower at CCC - can you believe I started watching her at 6 months? Boo hoo!

To know that through my job, babysitting/nannying, and having the honor to love on so many children, has really impacted them and shaped them to help them become who they are today and forever in their future, is so rewarding. So honoring. So HUGE.

And as I open my bible every night to read (okay, not EVERY but I'm getting better), I come across the sweet handwritten note, written in June 2006 that says "Our sweet Miss Jackie-Lane, Out of all the ways your presence has blessed us, your love for Christ and sharing it with Maddie has blessed us the most."  A sweet leather bible that the Tharrington's gave me when I was 16 is the bible that I still use, now as a married woman.  That bible has been through many peaks, valleys, rivers, and mountains with me.  Through huge moments in my life.  And it's still the same.  It never changes, it stays true.  Hebrews 13:8 says "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday today and forever."  And so is his word.

So figure out what your gift is.  What is your calling in this life?  Why are you here? Go use your gifts. Go ON - if you've lasted this long in reading my jargon, then you're wasting your time and you have no life! Okay - just kidding, I spend three times as long writing it (thankful for morning naps, sweet Eva!)

Shine your light, let everyone know who YOU are living for and be a minister for God (after all, it's what you were called to do!)

Thanks for walking with us,
JL

we are heading to the superbowl, baby!

I guess I should start this blog post by stating that we are not actually physically going to the superbowl, but instead, we (as in, the Ravens) are playing in the superbowl February 3rd!  The game last night was awesome and we are so pumped to have our city represented in such an awesome event (not to mention - they're going to dominate, but we won't get into that).

I should also say that my older sister, Andrea, sparked this blog entry topic in my mind.   First of all - she thought we were actually going to the superbowl, which is why I had to state the obvious above (isn't she precious? - love you andrea!) :)

After we won last night, I sent out an email to my family members with excitement to remind them all, that we (the ravens) are indeed headed to the superbowl!  Little did I know, I would get a response from my sister, Andrea, that made my day.  (I didn't ask her permission to post part of her email, but I doubt she'll try to sue me...)

I think you're the best wife ever!  I know football was never your thing, but you have embraced your husband's interests in such a "you" way.  (Purple cookies, for instance.)  You, no doubt, delight your husband and bring joy to him every day.  Every wife can learn from how you have adapted your life to create a happy marriage and peaceful home.  I'm proud of who you are.

Is that not the sweetest? I got a little teary, I must admit.  I read it. Then I read it again.  The funny this is, Andrea has been married for almost 14 (fourteen!) years, has 4 children (the youngest not even 1 yet) and she and her husband Brian truly seem like they are still newlyweds.  I have always admired that about their relationship.  They are still madly in love (and it is SO evident) after so many years, and four young children.  Did I mention she homeschools them all? Did I also mention her house is always spit shine clean and SUPER organized (you thought I was bad..you've seen nothing)?  Did I mention she throws AMAZING birthday parties for every one of them with ALL homemade cakes, favors, snacks, etc.  Did I mention that she always has her hair done with makeup on?  Well - among many other things, she and her husband still have a marriage and love that is on fire.  I know it takes two people to make or break a marriage, but I sure do know that Andrea works her tail of as a mother AND as a wife.  I look up to her so much.

My precious nieces and nephew

Andrea and Brian 

The fact that she took her time to say those words to me really went a long way.  Yes, I never was in to football prior to being married (and to tell you the truth...I'm STILL NOT! Come on - I don't want to waste 4 hours of my life sitting in front of a TV watching a bunch of sweaty nasty men jump on each other and throw a ball. please!) But I have learned to enjoy things I don't typically enjoy (with my own flair as Andrea mentioned) in order to just be with my husband.  Doing anything with him is fun to me. 

And hey....I won't fail to mention that he goes to Target, TJ Maxx, Homegoods, and all my favorite stores with me.

Please enjoy a few pictures from our evening last night as we watched the Ravens Game!

Homemade chili that simmered for 5 hours, mmm.

....well, you have to eat and drink a lot for a football game!

Football apparently makes Noe SO tired.

Purple cookies, GO RAVENS!

Happy Monday (and GO RAVENS)!

Thanks for walking with us,
JL

2 months away...

In honor of my best friend, Clair's, wedding that is exactly 2 months from today (3-16-2013), I thought I'd share some pictures of her engagement party John and I threw for her at my parents house back in July.  (Props to my parents for letting us use their amazing home that is the ultimate party/entertaining venue).  

I'm pretty sure Clair and Seth were engaged for less than a week before we had a date picked out and I had invitations ordered.  I wanted to be sure Clair had her engagement/wedding season kicked off in a fun way to honor the amazing person she is.  Clair (soon to be Mrs. Ashburn) is the most loyal friend a girl could ask for.  She is a true gem and I don't think I'll ever meet a friend like her.  

The countdown is on....before you know it Clair, you'll be walking down that aisle in your stunning white dress.  You are going to be one of the prettiest brides and we can't wait to share this day with you and be a part of it!

For now...please enjoy pictures from the engagement party that we hosted back in July for the soon-to-be-Ashburns!  

Clair's sisters

She passed out right in the middle of the kitchen floor.

Clair and Seth with Seth's parents

The bridesmaids with the BRIDE-TO-BE!

be still...

This past weekend, John and I did...well pretty much absolutely nothing.  We had goals to paint our bedroom. But - we both just weren't feeling it.

Friday, I only had to work until 1pm...so I spent the afternoon with Ruthie, which we often do when our days off line up (she's a nurse so she works 2-3 days a week). John called around 5 to let me know that he'd be working late (boo for working late on a friday...) so I joined Ruthie and Lauren for a drink in Ellicott City.  John picked me up from the brewery around 8:30 or so and we spend the remainder of the evening hanging out at home (as he was exhausted).

Saturday we took Noe on a good long walk and then prepped for the Ravens game.  I threw dinner in the crockpot and we watched the game which went into overtime and the Ravens WON! (Btw: one more game to win and we are in the superbowl baby!!!)  Another btw: I never thought I'd actually enjoy football but I'm so proud to be a Ravens fan! We ate dinner at home and again - had a lazy evening.

Sunday....We went to church and ate brunch at Portalli's afterwords....Which I must say...Not impressed.  We had a groupon there so thought we'd give it a try...After purchasing it - our friends Kelly & Blake told us it was nothing special....THEN, Ruthie told me they did not like it either....Well - it was a groupon so it was worth a shot....and FAIL....Shortly after we got home, we decided to exercise - so we went on a run together and did a quick workout at home afterwords....Spent the rest of the afternoon at home and went to a movie Sunday night (This is 40 - which was hilarious).

There you have it....we spent 80% of our weekend at home.  Which was amazing.  Maybe this weekend we will actually get something done but for now - we were enjoying out R&R and just "being still..."

John is so type-B and I am so type-A. That's one of the reasons we work so well together....He has taught me (and teaches me everyday) to be still....to rest....to kick back a notch (or 10)...and to just to enjoy the present....While I get his tail in gear sometimes :) It's just what we both need...

Sometimes (okay - almost ALL the time), I get so caught up in life...moving at such a fast speed...constantly "doing" because if I sit or am not getting something done - I feel guilty.  However, when you're constantly living at this pace, you forget to take time to be still and listen for Him.  When you're rapidly going throughout your day, are you taking time to hear Him? Are you listening for what He is trying to tell you? Do you realize He is knocking, knocking, knocking and you are just going too fast that you don't even hear Him trying to communicate with you? If you're like me, than the answer is no.  When you are still...When you are quiet...this is when you will hear His voice.  So take the time out of your day to sit quietly with your Bible, prayer book, journal, or just bow your head in prayer.  He doesn't care how you do it, where you do it, how long you do it, or when you do it - just do it.

Psalm 46:10...I encourage you today, to be still....

Thanks for walking with us,
JL

to name a few...

just a list of a few things I miss in Raleigh (in no specific order at all)...

1. mom and dad

2. armadillo grill

3. driving neighborhood roads to get everywhere (i hate highways and interstates!)

4. all my sweet friends

5. driving by meredith college - what a beautiful campus

6. scout

7. yates (except - now he's in charlotte)

8. all the families i babysit (and that's a lot!) 

9. dinner dates with my mom

10. north hills

11. NO TRAFFIC (trust me - when you live in MD - raleigh has NO TRAFFIC)

12. zoe's kitchen

13. north hills TARGET (yes - it is still my favorite).

14. running into people i know - just about everywhere (okay, sometimes i DONT miss this!) 

15. HBUMC - my church

16. goodberrys

17. traffic lights WITHOUT cameras

18. visiting with my sweet grandparents

19. cowgirl boots & monograms (though, i still sport mine up here!) 

20. the slower pace of life (trust me...it is)

21. belk

22. irregardless cafe

23. the farm (not in raleigh...but close)

24. girls night outs with my friends

25. babysitting all my favorite babies/kids

...just to name a few...

living in the present...

As an extremely Type-A, planner-freak, on-top-of-everything-before-it-evens-starts, individual and human being - it is that much harder for me to let go, stop worrying, stop planning and living for the future, and to relax and bask in the present.

One once said, "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, and today is a gift, that's why it's called the present."  This quote is a little cheesy (okay, a lot) but truly - it's genius.  Seriously. I mean, come on.  This simple sentence says so much and I constantly need to be reminded of it.

I am currently nannying the most precious 11 month old baby girl named, Eva (pronounced Ava).  She will be one year old next month and I am so looking forward to celebrating her special day with her!  I spent all summer interviewing with the Howard County Board of Education and then onto the Ho.Co. public school system.  I interviewed at three schools and was offered a job as a 4th grade classroom teacher at one of the schools.  To begin with, I am so much more of a K-2 person that 3-5.  Now now, that doesn't mean I'm completely turned off by grades 3-5 but they're just not my first choice (for sure).  Not only was this a 4th grade position but after walking around the school and doing a lot of research on it, it just didn't feel like a good fit for me.  Months later, I am still glad I did not take the job.  I do not regret it one bit.

I decided I would begin interviewing for nannying positions early August once summer was coming to a close and school was about to begin (I waited as long as possible to hear from the school systems in case somebody last minute dropped a position, etc).  I interviewed with 2 or 3 families and the same situations occurred.  Nothing felt like the right thing.  I prayed and prayed.  Waited (sometimes patiently, other times not so much).  I committed to a family with 8 children mid-August and - well, thank goodness that ended up falling through at the last minute....I waited and waited some more and in October, I met Eva's family.  I was walking Noe in the neighborhood and ran into Eva's Mom.  They live in our courtyard of townhouses (just 4 doors down).  After interviewing and much correspondence, I began working as Eva's nanny in late October.  I absolutely LOVE it.  I look forward to work.  I can walk home whenever throughout the day if I forget something or need something.  I take Noe on a couple walks during the day with Eva.  It truly is a dream job.

So for now...I am not stressing about whether or not I'm going to teach next year or when I will for that matter.  I am living in the present and enjoying it.  I am currently so happy, loving life as a wife, enjoying the flexibility, using my degree every day with Eva to help her grow developmentally/cognitively, and am not stressed a bit (well - okay, on some days I am - but NOTHING compared to the life of a teacher).  Trust me - being a stay at home mom (or pseudo-stay-at-home-mom) is not for everyone - and is no joke.  It requires CONSTANT work - sometimes gets lonely - sometimes you want to pull your hair out - sometimes you feel like you'd do anything for some adult interaction.  But - overall, it is so amazing and rewarding and I feel so cut out for it.

For now - I am living in the present.  Soaking up every minute, day, and week.  I encourage you to do the same.  Stop worrying, stop regretting, just live where you are.

And not even 30 minutes after writing this post, Clair sent me an amazing article that ties in with enjoying nanny/mommy-hood and it's significance and importance!  Enjoy! http://www.dailyprincetonian.com/2013/01/07/32225/

Thanks for walking with us,

JL

A Bridal Tea Party

My eldest sister-in-law, Hannah, is getting married to her fiancé, Michael Shoemaker, on March 9, 2013.  In celebration of this special season of her life, Linda, Ruthie, Caroline and I threw her a bridal tea party on Saturday at 11am.  It was a beautiful affair and was so-Hannah.  We hosted it at Ruthie's beautiful home and sipped tea while eating scones, wedding danishes, cookies, cake, finger sandwiches, and the list goes on!  Below are just a few pictures from the party...Enjoy! Happy Monday, everyone!