Ok, so I am almost finished reading The Shack. I at first thought it was a true story, because of the forward...but after doing some searching on the author's blog, I have realized that it is a work of fiction. It's a funny thing, I have heard some differing opinions on this book, but for myself, I was intrigued. I don't really agree with the way that He chooses to portray God in the book, but I definitely get the feeling that it's not the way the author thinks about God.

So, all to say...it's a thought provoking book that I feel has caused me to think more about my own response to tragedy and God's kindness in it. If any of you have read it, I'd be interested to hear your opinion. We tend to be sceptical of anything that comes along; it's good at times, and yet can be detrimental to God speaking to us in different ways. It's important to check everything through the sieve of the Word, and to ask for wisdom in everything we do. That's been my stance in reading this book. So, I am recommending this book...but do your searching first. I don't want you to come back and be offended! ;)

Kids Camp!

So, here's some pics that I took this morning before Kids Camp! Moriah took her friend Acacia with her. I hope they have a blast. They were already enjoying themselves on the bus. I stayed to watch it go off, and was amazed at all the staff who lovingly take care of 90+ kids. What treasures they have stored up in heaven! I'll share some of the kid's eye pics when and if I get my camera back from camp. ;)

For The Love of Camping

So, here's some pics of the first camping trip of the season. You know, you gotta work all the bugs out, get the children used to it....break 'em in. Let's start with the first 100 degree weekend of the year, and top that off with an outrageous thunderstorm with real lightning folks!

Ok, so it really wasn't THAT bad. But, it was pretty scary. There were some trees that were knocked over, and LOTS of wind and lightning. Luckily, most of the kids slept right through it, while all the grown ups were contemplating moving the tents to the middle of the field to get out from under the trees. Most of the guys were like, "Were gonna be fine!" I was pretty much the only girl up. I think the rest of them trusted their men-folk. What does that say about me? Well, I trust my man...but were usually better as a team. ;)

So, needless to say we were fine. Although it bent my brand new Quikshade. But, my stuff always breaks...it's not a surprise. It was hotter than blazes though, so that made it a little hard to have a ton of fun. Everything was work. Now, if I only had a boat...then my life would be complete, right? ;)

The kids had fun, and I absolutely loved the worship night amongst the warm wind and thunderous lightning. It was indeed powerful. Next trip is rafting. Sure to be a little cooler, and a lot of fun. Thanks to all the families that braved the heat...some of you who came for the first time camping ever! We'll keep the tradition alive for sure. Now, if one of you could just buy that boat...it'd be great. ;)

Attention Crafters!

Hi all my crafty friends! I thought I'd share this coupon I found, good only for TODAY. That's right, get to Michael's and use it on whatever you've been waiting for! You have a long weekend...so let's see some projects!

Michaels 50% off one regular priced item.

Happy Father's Day Dad...

Some of you know the recent events that have gone on in my life in the past few weeks...and some don't. My Dad passed away not too long ago. It was a terrible ordeal, and as I've told many of you, I kept asking myself; "Where's the grown-up that's supposed to take care of all this?"

I was it. I was grown up, I guess. But, it still is painful just the same as if you were a kid! I loved my Dad, even though we had our fair share of tough times together. Just before all this happened, he came and stayed with us for a week and a half. The kids were able to spend time with him, probably more than they ever had. I truly treasure those memories, and I pray that he is with the Lord, enjoying heaven.

This has been extremely hard, but I am made so aware of the shortness of life. He taught me during this time, that when you step away from Him...even 2 inches, it allows the enemy to come in and snatch your joy. I learned that I don't want to allow any footholds for the enemy to sneak in and whisper doubts to me. I know who I am in Christ. I know He has saved me, and is the only way to heaven.

Anyway, I just wanted to say Happy Father's Day, even though I don't have an earthly Father anymore. Today was a little sad, but I have joy, knowing that all things work for good for those who are called according to His purpose! Hope all of you had a wonderful Father's Day. Don't forget to call Dad and say hi. Always share how much the Lord loves him...even if he doesn't want to hear it. You'll never regret that you did.

Love you Dad, give Jesus a big hug for me, k? --Laura

Prayers For Steven Curtis Chapman

I just heard today that Steven Curtis Chapman's littlest daughter was struck by the family car and later died at the hospital. There is a little YouTube video to go on and meet this little girl, and to find out what an amazing family they are: Maria Sue Chapman. I was so touched by this today, because I just thought, "What if that was my daughter? What would my faith be like. Would I lose it?" Today in Wives in Prayer, we prayed this for Steven as the man of his house...you can say it along with me as you read:

Psalm 147:3, Lord, we call upon Your name, to be the lifter of Steven's head, heart and soul. We ask that You would heal Steven when he is feeling broken-hearted and we ask that You would bind up his wounds (curing his pain and his sorrows) as only You can. We ask for a spirit of relief to come to Steven and that You would encourage his heart today.

Psalm 119:169, God we pray that Steven will let his mournful cry and supplication come before You, O Lord; give him understanding (discernment and comprehension) according to Your Word (of assurance and promise) that You are with him and will not forsake him. Show him what to do and how to handle this. We pray Your great comfort to minister to his deepest needs and we thank You that weeping may endure at night, but Your joy will come in the morning. Give Steven hope in his sorrow and in his pain. May the joy of the Lord be his strength and carry him through.

Psalm 86:3-5, Lord, please be merciful and gracious to Steven, for You hear his heart's cry. We pray that You would make Steven your servant, to rejoice, O Lord, for You are the One that can lift him up. For You, O Lord, are good, and ready to forgive (our trespasses, sending them away, letting them go completely, and forever); and You are abundant in mercy and loving-kindness to all those who call upon You. May Steven be surrounded by Your abundant mercy and loving-kindness and sense Your nearness in his time of need. Thank You dear Jesus for being moved with compassion for Steven and that You care for him affectionately, in the precious name of Jesus, Amen.

(Wives in Prayer by Tami Chelew)

A friend sent me this video. It is pretty inspiring and amazing. It is so cool how the Lord shows us He is real and true!