Bridal Shower...part 2

Earlier this month I was so blessed to have the ladies at my home church in Bakersfield gather around me to help me celebrate my upcoming wedding to Matt. I had so much fun reconnecting with them and sharing the story of Matt and I.

Friday night I was blessed yet again as the wonderful woman from Calvary Chapel "The Rock" threw me an awesome shower.It was a bittersweet evening as I wished my mom could join in on the festivities, but I was so excited to have my two sisters there to help me celebrate. I was surrounded by woman who love God, loved my mom, and love me! Thank you to Lori Williams and Julie Acuna. You two have blessed me more than you will ever know! Many of these ladies didn't even know me personally, but jumped at the chance to help me celebrate my marriage because of their relationship with God, and for most, a relationship with my mom. What a beautiful example of the body of Christ! I love you all and am considered blessed beyond measure by you!!! Thank you!

Life as I know it...

Hmm…Where does one begin when writing about their life? I guess there is no better time than the present.
In 23 days I am getting married. I was never one to dream about their wedding as a kid, but if I had, it would definitely be different from the way it is going to be. Nobody dreams that their mom won't be there to share in the excitement, to help plan, and most importantly, to give them away. But such is the case. I have missed my mom's presence during this time. I could especially use her organization! Invitations would have been out on time and actually sent to all of the people who were supposed to get them. I think that has been the hardest part for me. Every time I think that I am actually doing it, I am actually planning my wedding, I find out that something, or someone was forgotten. That never would have happened if she were here. However, as hard and even as painful as it has been to go through this process without her here, it is still exciting.
In 23 days I will begin a new journey, a new chapter in my life. In 23 days I will walk towards the man that God has handpicked for me and willingly pledge my love and my life to him. It is still surreal to me. I think I am the last person that people would expect to get married. I think I always knew in the back of my mind I would eventually get married, but yet I am still surprised.
I am so ready to be done with the planning part of the wedding. I am ready to be done searching for chairs, figuring out what color tablecloth would look best, how many pounds of meat it takes to serve 130 people. Blah blah blah. Let’s face it; I am NOT a details person. If this shindig even resembles a wedding in any way, shape, or form I will be happy. Now, about the other 129 people…
I am ready to be done with the wedding prep and to enjoy the wedding. I am ready to be done with the wedding and to start the marriage. I am excited to move to Tennessee and pursue a life of missions. This has been a difficult process, but throughout every step, every inch, and every corner that we have turned, God has been there. Holding me, comforting me, listening to me, and most importantly leading me. He has showered me with a grace so refreshing. I am in awe of the God I serve. I have heard many people say “how can you believe in God when something like this happens”? Funny…I always think “How can you NOT believe in God at a time like this”? I can’t imagine this process without His love, His provision, His comfort, His promises, and most importantly His peace.