The Elf on the Shelf

This past weekend I got to meet one of the co-authors of The Elf on the Shelf book. Her name is Carol Aebersold, and she mainly came to speak about her experiences with getting the book published. It is a fascinating story and I was amazed at how God's hand was evident in every step. If you get a chance to hear Carol or her daughter, Chanda Bell, I encourage you to go.

As I've looked back over my notes, I was suprised by how many times Carol talked about praying...to be confident, to overcome obstacles, to seek direction. Her advice was "to bathe everything in prayer." I love the visual of saturating all that we have and all that we desire in prayer; making it pure and clean before God.

Character

This past weekend our church started a new series called Villain.

During the sermon our pastor said "Satan will always act according to his character." And what is his character? Glad you asked. He is a liar, murderer (John 8:44), stealer and destroyer (John 10:10), just to name a few.

However, what struck me in the comment was could the same be said of me? Do I act according to my character? And what does that say about my character? This week I have challenged myself to respond in ways that hopefully resonate a godly, Christlike character-peaceful, graceful, merciful and loving.

You can listen to the sermon and see the notes here. Also there are daily devotionals that help take the message into your week called Digging Deeper.

Spring Break

The following took place during Spring Break 2009. Yes, I'm channeling Jack Bauer in 24, because something about the opening statement makes me happy. (And if you don't know what I'm rambling about, just enjoy the pics!)

First ever Turner Family Camping Trip...hopefully not the last. Yes I actually put that in writing. I am not a camping girl. Steve jokes that my idea of camping is a hotel without a coffee pot. However, I must admit this was a good trip. The coffee, not so much, but the time away from phones, tvs and all things electronic was good for us. Here's a few pictures.

CAMPSITE-our home away from home

SMORES-no camping trip would be complete without them. The kids discovered that roasted marshmallows are not too shabby either.

GUMBO-that's our dog, not the food. He was exhausted after a hike on Saturday.

PERSONAL NIGHT LIGHT- the moon was beautiful and really kept the tent lit just enough at night.

Hopefully you and your family had a great Spring Break also.