What a friend we have in Jesus...

This song was in my head this morning, I found myself prompted to sing it instead of turn on the TV. It's a beautiful old hymn, written in 1855. My dad used to sing this to me when I was younger and couldn't sleep. Still today, it's comforting to me.

I didn't actually watch this youtube video, I just had it playing on my computer. I hope it touches your heart like it does mine.

What A Friend We Have in Jesus

"What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear,
What a privilege to carry, everything to God in prayer.
Oh what peace we often forfeit, oh what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry, everything to God in prayer." - Joseph M. Scriven

Monday

Today Matt and I went to a matinee and dinner out, just because. We don't typically have date nights on Mondays but I loved it. I even wore a pretty pink summery dress, just because I wanted to feel pretty for our date. AND I got complimented by a sweet old lady at the movie theater. :)

We saw "The Help" which is the best book I've read in a long time. The movie followed the book pretty closely, I was pleased with it! Though I did not cry while reading the book, I got teary eyed twice during the movie. I was not expecting that to happen, but it's a moving story of friendship, and so much more. If you haven't already read it, check it out.

And treat your special someone to an unexpected treat today...or tomorrow.

Love!

Happy Birthday!

My mom and my dad have birthdays in August. My mom's was last week, and my dads is today! Happy birthday folks, I love you so much!

Welcome Home Bark!

My mom told me about this video and I just had to share! Enjoy a peek at the joy of coming home to a lovable dog.

A Low-key August

I've been a bit quiet. After traveling for most of July, I've taken the last few weeks to somewhat avoid the internet, with the exception of checking email and occasionally facebook. Have you guys ever just needed a break from the world a bit? Specifically the world wide web world...not so much a break from friends and family. Anyway, it's been nice to have some down time, reflection and even renewal with rest, and quiet time with the Lord. If you find yourself needing that, take it.

Home

My parents moved a few weeks ago. I have been traveling so much with SummerShine I had not been able to see their new place. I got to visit last week (was it last week?!) and see where they are now. It was odd, following a GPS to my parents house. Needing directions to go home? A funny feeling. But as soon as I got there, I was reminded again that "home" is not a house, but the people that make it up. There is beauty in being in the same place with family, people that know you and love you just the way you are. Though the houses have been different over the years, home is where the heart is, where the love is.

There is also nothing like coming home to Matt. Being away from him for weeks off and on is hard. The different time zones make communication sometimes limited. I love pulling into the driveway knowing he is waiting for me inside. I came home this week to flowers and a sweet card. Home.

All Grown Up!!!!!

My little brother, and only brother, graduated from UNC in May. He actually graduated on Mother's Day which is a nice gift to my mom and dad for that matter. We enjoyed a cook-out at his townhome, nicknamed the "Domecave," on Saturday night and a fun lunch gathering after all the graduation festivities. Thankfully the rain moved on, so we could enjoy the ceremony. (Although the weather affected the "cuteness" of our outfits).

Domecave Party:

~These boys Logan has tutored and loved the last 4 years. They were so cute!



I feel like I was just graduating from college, and he was graduating from high school (2007). Wow. Time does go quickly. I am SO proud of the man he is and the Lord's work throughout his life. He's spending his summer interning at International Justice Mission, in DC. I am looking forward to seeing him in the big city!

A few more pictures from the celebration:

Family Photo!

True Friends.

Classic.

Handsome.

I believe the actual ceremony photos were caught on a different camera, so this what I have. Proud of you Log!