tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29211485384504397402024-02-19T05:55:39.756-05:00The Thoughtful SpotThoughtful Encouragements for WomenAlycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.comBlogger455125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-4583742277295352722014-01-27T08:30:00.000-05:002014-01-27T08:30:02.018-05:00{Minute Meditation} Water Balloons at Work?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>She has done what she could</i></span> (Mark 14:8).</b> A friend of mine pointed out this verse a few months ago, and I have embraced it as my own ever since. I tend to get busy with life and then find myself disappointed because my to-do list sits half checked off. I pine over the things I wanted to do but couldn't squeeze in as life threw water balloons at my work party. I wish time could extend or I could warp back in time and do things differently.<br />
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What on your to-do list has been pushed aside or left undone this winter? Have things slowed down for you, too? Do you find yourself moving through this season at a turtle's pace?<br />
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Here are some water balloons that have come my way:<br />
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My good intention of starting a new blog in 2014. God redirected my attentions and reminded me I already have a platform for that particular ministry. It's called <a href="http://www.inspireafire.com/">Inspire a Fire</a>. So now I have to refocus my thoughts and schedule myself to post on a site I already run.<br />
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Moving. Yes, you heard me. Moving. Again. This will be the third time within a twelve-month period. Which has put a wrench in a lot of things. Not stopping them. Just slowing them down a bit. Because now I have to pack again. And take a few days off to make the move again. And then unpack again. Thankfully I've mastered the art of spacial concepts. I am now a super packer. (And a super thrower awayer.)<br />
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Sickness. That nasty flu bug fell in love with me this week. Although I want to break up with the flu, it's nasty mucus is clinging for dear life. All but one of my children has had at least a mild amount of symptoms. Some more than others. Thankfully, it's on its way out.<br />
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Plans change all the time. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. The question remains: how do we handle the water balloons? Do we dive for cover and pray they don't drench us? Do we stand firm and allow them to water us? Do we fall to our knees as they break against us? Or do we allow God to guide us to safety?<br />
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<b>Maybe the water balloon of an interruption to life is actually God trying to get through.</b> Like with my website plans. Maybe it's a road that will bring us closer to a dream fulfilled, like this next move (which is bringing me closer to my writing core of friends). Maybe it's a call to rest and soak in His Word, like an illness.<br />
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Whatever your water balloon is today, take a moment to stop and consider if God could be in the midst of it. Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-71885203358454389852014-01-24T16:29:00.000-05:002014-01-24T16:50:06.352-05:00Friday {in focus} ~ In Someone Else's Words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><b><span class="text 2Cor-3-1">Do we begin again to commend ourselves? Or do we need, as some others, epistles of commendation to you or letters of commendation from you? </span></b></span><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b><span class="text 2Cor-3-2" id="en-NKJV-28844">You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men; </span></b></span><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b><span class="text 2Cor-3-3" id="en-NKJV-28845">clearly
you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink
but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on
tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.</span></b></span> </div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><b><span class="text 2Cor-3-4">And we have such trust through Christ toward God. </span></b></span><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b><span class="text 2Cor-3-5" id="en-NKJV-28847">Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God, </span></b></span><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848">who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit;<sup> </sup>for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><b><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"><span style="color: black;">{2 Corinthians 3:1-6}</span></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"><span style="color: black;">This Friday in Focus is a little different than usual. The above is one of my favorite verses to turn on myself as a mirror. Is my epistle one of Christ or one of myself? Does it minister to others? Or is it bitter and selfish, keeping the glory of God buried or hidden beneath my own dingy exterior wall? Will my friends and family and those who I work for receive encouragement or love or a glint of faith and hope when they look upon this epistle? Or will they read a horror story of how lousy my day has gone or review the creases of an argument that occurred before I walked out the door that morning?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"><span style="color: black;">It's one thing to be transparent and hang your dirty laundry out for all to see so you can receive others' commendations for how horrible you should be allowed to feel in any given circumstance. It's another to be transparent with the love of Jesus, sharing your testimony of how His blood overcame your worst nightmare in this earthly life to bring you into a place of His grace and glory.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"><span style="color: black;">There are a few books on my desk right now that I am savoring every word of. Why? Because I've gotten to know the authors, and every one of them is an epistle of the heart of Jesus Christ. I love every one of them. You know you're close to an author when you can hear their voice reading their written word to you. The Pastor you've listened to for twenty-plus years, who has lead you and challenged you to grow in your walk of faith. The woman whose voice resonates in your heart because she thinks like you when you always thought you might be weird. The woman who takes those things you've hated about yourself but realized there was a purpose for them and exposes the weirdness for what it really is - the image and likeness of God. The woman who tells you its okay to find your voice and use it; others will listen. You have something to say. And the women who continue to encourage you onward in your own writing dreams. These are the hearts I love to read, who I perk up in my seat and listen to as they spill their hearts across the written page.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"><span style="color: black;">The Word of God is most important. His truth comes first. But He's also blessed us with fellow epistles to glean from. Others who understand our deep desires and heart needs. Today I celebrate them. Who do you enjoy fellowship with and the opportunity to glean from? What living epistles do you enjoy reading? Who has turned your life upside down for the kingdom of God?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"><span style="color: black;">Here are a few of mine mentioned above and where to find their writings:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"><span style="color: black;">Pastor Robert Engelhardt - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Speaking-Tongues-Robert-Duffy-Engelhardt/dp/1610361199/">Speaking in Tongues (Heaven's Language)</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"><span style="color: black;">Mary DeMuth - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Not-Marked-Finding-Healing-Sexual-ebook/dp/B00H04ZRPW/">Not Marked</a> / <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Wall-Around-Your-Heart/dp/1400205212/">The Wall Around Your Heart</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"><span style="color: black;">Jo Ann Fore - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/When-Woman-Finds-Her-Voice-ebook/dp/B00G3L2Y6I/">When a Woman Finds Her Voice</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"><span style="color: black;">Laurie Wallin - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Why-Your-Weirdness-Wonderful-Strengths/dp/1426772009/">Why Your Weirdness is Wonderful</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"><span style="color: black;">DiAnn Mills - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dance-Character-Plot-DiAnn-Mills/dp/0985356375/">The Dance of Character and Plot</a> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"><span style="color: black;">Edie Melson - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dance-Character-Plot-DiAnn-Mills/dp/0985356375/">The Write Conversation </a></span></span><b><span class="text 2Cor-3-6" id="en-NKJV-28848"> </span></b></span></div>
Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-39360655884728061642014-01-10T07:30:00.000-05:002014-01-10T07:30:01.788-05:00Friday {in focus} ~ Same Road, Different Season<div style="text-align: center;">
Have you ever noticed how the same road can look and be so different </div>
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based on the season of life you're in?</div>
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Thankfully, God is the same today as He was yesterday and will be tomorrow.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.</b></span></span></div>
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{Hebrews 13:8}<br />
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What road has your character traveled many times in many seasons?<br />
How has that season changed his/her perspective on life?<br />
How has that road changed them throughout the years they've traveled it?<br />
Has your character discovered something new on that journey? </div>
Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-25132501908240622792014-01-09T08:00:00.000-05:002014-01-09T08:00:05.374-05:00A Book Review ~ Born of Persuasion by Jessica Dotta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Persuasion-Price-Privilege-Jessica-Dotta/dp/1414375557/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="http://www.amazon.com/Persuasion-Price-Privilege-Jessica-Dotta/dp/1414375557/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhknS3UyDUc1BNz_oJNn3aYhyphenhyphenhH18kzK-vQAVeENrcRQYQqAqr7G3RN1NiS8BkIUU3c9mVgygL2Vb9rUuJjXOf0GaE1QMv70Hpvi7ZdI1hkGaWTjjMa0Zzhn4YSvcLEWoPo2oMHJehkEQ/s1600/Born+of+Persuasion+by+Jessica+Dotta.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
Jessica Dotta presents us with a gripping story of a desire to be loved in the midst of a tale of intrigue within the pages of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Persuasion-Price-Privilege-Jessica-Dotta/dp/1414375557/"><i>Born of Persuasion</i></a>. Here is the back cover copy to whet your appetite for a gothic story that will keep you up late at night:<br />
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The year is 1838, and seventeen-year-old Julia Elliston's position has never been more fragile. Orphaned and unmarried in a time when women are legal property of their fathers, husbands, and guardians, she finds herself at the mercy of an anonymous guardian who plans to establish her as a servant in far-off Scotland.<br />
With two months to devise a better plan, Julia's first choice - to marry her childhood sweetheart - is denied. Then a titled dowager offers to introduce Julia into society, opening a realm of possibilities.<br />
Treachery and deception are as much a part of Victorian society as titles and decorum, however, and Julia quickly discovers her present is deeply entangled with her mother's mysterious past. Before she knows what's happening, Julia finds herself a pawn in a deadly game between two of the country's most powerful men. With no laws to protect her, she must unravel the secrets on her own.<br />
But sometimes truth is elusive and knowledge is deadly.<br />
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<i>Mark of Distinction</i>, the second book in Dotta's <i>Price of Privilege Trilogy</i>, cannot release soon enough. I read <i>Born of Persuasion</i>
in three days, which is fast for me. An average book will take me
anywhere from a week and a half to three months to finish, depending on
my schedule. To finish a book within three days means I sat and read
because I couldn't put it down. I truly didn't want <i>Born of Persuasion</i> to end.<br />
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Dotta's characters are gripping, and I found myself in a love/hate relationship with more than one of them. Mrs. Windham is the annoying and vocal woman you'd expect to find in any novel set in the Victorian era. Julia draws sympathy from the reader immediately as everyone around her feels they know what's best for her future. The villains are charmingly deceitful, leaving one wondering who is good and who is evil. It's been a long time since I've hated a villain this much. Of all the aspects of the story, these characters are what made it such an incredible read.<br />
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Jessica's novel reminds me a lot of Jane Austen's books, but Jessica certainly has her own voice that rings loud and clear throughout the novel. I truly look forward to reading more from her.<br />
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Find a copy here:<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Persuasion-Price-Privilege-Jessica-Dotta/dp/1414375557/">amazon</a><br />
<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/born-of-persuasion-jessica-dotta/1115473719?ean=9781414375557">Barnes & Noble</a><br />
<a href="http://www.christianbook.com/born-of-persuasion-price-privilege/jessica-dotta/9781414375557/pd/375557?product_redirect=1&Ntt=375557&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP">CBD</a><br />
<a href="http://www.parable.com/i.Born-of-Persuasion-Dotta-Jessica.9781414375557">Parable</a>Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-91235158305425880212014-01-06T12:24:00.000-05:002014-01-06T12:24:43.580-05:00{Minute Meditation} Messy Faith<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've always liked to think that faith was something resembling strength, stability, and fearlessness. I've hoped that my faith would be unwavering in the storms of life. That I would stand firm against the gale winds and come out the other side without a tear in my sail. I never imagined faith as being messy or uncomfortable.</div>
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Until my New Year rolled in like a thunderstorm. I've spent the last week wavering between faith and joy and tears and despair. When I've seen the will of God, I've experienced an onslaught of desperation. It's been an unusual beginning, to say the least. My faith stands strong and knows God's will is in wonderful progress. My flesh begs for a break and wants to lay down and sleep the month away, spurring me into moments of breakdown tears while I scratch and claw trying to grasp a moment of peace and joy.</div>
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BUT GOD. During church on Sunday, I caught glimpses of the prophetic coming to pass. I heard still small whispers of promises kept and hope declared. God said, "Write it down." And while I write, I need to look for His reminders to my heart and soul. To dig deep for that joy and peace within. To remember that He is still standing alongside of me, holding my hand, wiping my tears, and preparing the way for my new year.</div>
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And I am reminded of this:</div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">Create in me a clean heart, O God,</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">And renew a steadfast spirit within me.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">Restore to me the joy of your salvation,</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">And uphold me by Your generous Spirit.</span></b></div>
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<b>{Psalm 51:10 & 12}</b></div>
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Are you experiencing an emotional start to the new year? Do worries and concerns weigh you down? Are you grasping, like me, for joy and peace in the midst of the storms? Allow God to cleanse your heart from doubt, fear, hesitation, unbelief. Allow the generous Spirit of our Lord to renew a steadfast spirit within you, restore the Joy of His salvation, and uphold you.</div>
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This too shall pass. And sunny skies are always ahead. I pray God's peace and joy overwhelm you today.</div>
Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-46145235537871848972014-01-03T08:50:00.000-05:002014-01-03T08:50:46.420-05:00Friday {in focus} ~ Adventure, Not Ease<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Mary DeMuth's words ring true whether we're looking at our own lives </div>
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and walk with God or we're writing our characters' lives and walks with God.</div>
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No one wants to read about the guy who sits on his couch all day and does nothing.</div>
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Unless we give him such a bad cramp in his backside that he must get up and work.</div>
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Change his habit.</div>
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No one wants to read about the girl who goes through the same routine day in and day out.</div>
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Unless we give her a new assignment that will knock her out of her comfort zone.</div>
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Shock her.</div>
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{Think <i>Never Been Kissed</i>}</div>
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No one wants to read about the complaints of a pessimist.</div>
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Unless we pair them with an optimist.</div>
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Challenge their point of view.</div>
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Put yourself and your characters on a mountain top with a new and unique view this year.</div>
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Look at the world from a different perspective.</div>
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Take note.</div>
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After all, God created us for adventure, not ease.</div>
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That's why we all have that deep desire and urge to do something beyond our wildest dreams.</div>
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We just need to get off the couch, try something new, and leave our fears behind.</div>
Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-33685749841635095632013-12-31T19:05:00.001-05:002013-12-31T19:05:26.196-05:002013 in Review ~ What Have You Accomplished?Recently an author friend of mine posted on her Facebook timeline, asking her followers to consider what they've accomplished in 2013.<br />
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Oftentimes, we look at our year and pull out the negative, difficulties, trials, tribulations, mistakes, and failures. Then we make resolutions to be positive, give ourselves a break, find the joy in our trials and tribulations, make fewer/different/or no mistakes, and succeed in some area of our lives. And by mid-January, we've broken our fast, given up, or failed again and decided the heck with it all.<br />
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So when my author friend asked for a list of things we accomplished in 2013, I began to look back for all of God's blessings, favor, miracles, and provision throughout the past year. I looked for things that brought me joy, peace, and melted my heart.<br />
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Here's what I came up with:<br />
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1. I succeeded at being a lot more "in the moment" in daily living, especially with my children. Parenting is the one thing I struggle with on a daily basis. Have I done enough? Have I been enough for my children? Have I encouraged them or have I spent the day yelling about everything they've done wrong? Did I stop working long enough to make eye contact and answer that question? I may not have accomplished this every time, and I may have regretted a thing or two I'd said, but overall, I did much better focusing on my kids this year than I have in years past.<br />
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2. God taught me about <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Epic-Grace-Chronicles-Recovering-Idiot/dp/1414385048/">Epic Grace</a> and making Jesus my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Everything-What-Give-Become-Jesus/dp/B00C2I9ES2/">Everything</a> ("Everything" was my one word for 2013).<br />
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3. I taught for the first time at a writers conference. Thank you, <a href="http://classeminars.org/training/writing">CLASS writers conference</a> attendees for making my first teaching experience a joyful and encouraging one!<br />
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4. I was on a panel for the first time in my life. Another moment at the CLASS writers conference.<br />
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5. I wrote my first novel ... and finished it! Writing THE END for the first time is a surreal experience. It shocked me that I had an entire book/story in me. Be on the lookout. Working title is <i>Secret Identity</i>.<br />
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6. I am so excited to say that I have an agent to represent my writing, as well. Jonathan Clements, you rock! Thank you for taking me on and believing in me.<br />
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7. I moved three times in 12 months. And not just across the street or around the corner. Two moves were across the country. One to New Mexico. One back to the East Coast. The third is almost here ... in January, we'll be heading to South Carolina again.<br />
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8. God blessed my editing business and revealed to me that I have a call to be an encourager. I'm thankful for that gift, as it brings me great joy to see others find hope or discover an idea within themselves as God reveals what they need to me.<br />
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9. God provided every cent my family needed to do what we needed to do this year.<br />
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10. I was published in two different compilations/devotionals: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gods-Provision-Tough-Times-Unemployment/dp/1938499441/"><i>God's Provision in Tough Times</i></a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Refreshing-Wind-Celebrate-Presence-God/dp/1938499123/"><i>Refreshing Wind</i></a>.<br />
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11. God answered many prayers for healing, blessing, and my personal request to be able to live close to one of my very best friends and my writing mentor, who is also a dear friend.<br />
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12. God healed my father from Kidney cancer.<br />
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13. I had three authors that I edited win awards for their writing, which I edited. I had a fourth author hit #1 in a category on amazon for her novel that I edited. God has an amazing way of showing us that we are able to do what He has called us to do. I felt like a proud mama hen showing off her chicks. Go <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Storeroom-Heart-Jesus-Model-Abundant/dp/1462719465/">Pastor Chip</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Belly-Buttons-Broken-Hearts-Young/dp/1938499972/">Cyle</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cheesehead-Devotional-Meditations-Football-Fanatics/dp/1938499239/">Judy</a>, and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fields-Fatherless-Elaine-Marie-Cooper/dp/1938499921/">Elaine</a>! Whoot!<br />
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So, there's my list of thirteen things I've accomplished or God has done in my 2013. I'd love to hear about yours. Either list them in a comment below, or share your link to your blog post about them. Let's find encouragement together in knowing God is for us! Here's to a blessed 2014!<br />
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<br />Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-40024866283443938722013-12-09T08:00:00.000-05:002013-12-09T08:00:00.877-05:00{Minute Meditation} Redemption's Cost<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">Why should I fear in the days of evil,</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">When the iniquity at my heels surrounds me?</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">Those who trust in their wealth</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">And boast in the multitude of their riches,</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>None of then can by any means redeem his brother,</i></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>Nor give to God a ransom for him-</i></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>For the redemption of their souls is costly,</i></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">And it shall cease forever-</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">That he should continue to live eternally,</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">And not see the Pit.</span></b></div>
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<i>- Psalm 49:5-9 (Emphasis mine)</i></div>
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<b>Let's be Honest </b><br />
I think most of us - if not all of us - could say that we wish we had a million dollars so we could save the world. We could donate to this charity or that. We could pay off a family member's debt (and our own). We could buy tons of canned goods or toys to hand out to the needy at Christmas time. If only ... we could do so much.<br />
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We'd also give God the world to save our loved ones. As if we had the power to do so. Maybe if we love on our unsaved spouses, fathers, mothers, friends just a little harder, a little more, we would see them accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. If we served. If we prayed an extra hour today. If we pushed ... invited them to church again. <br />
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<b>You're Not My Savior</b><br />
As I read this week, the verses above jumped off the page at me. God is not looking for a bribe. He's not looking for a ransom. He's not looking for an excuse to give us eternal life upon our deathbed. He has wanted to do so since the beginning of time, when the Word was with God, and the Word was God. We cannot save our brothers and sisters, neighbors, and friends. It's not in our power to do so. No. Only God can save a man. Only God paid the ransom for our iniquities through the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ.<br />
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<b>Get Out of God's Way</b><br />
We must remove our Savior mentality and allow God to work in the hearts of our loved ones. Yes, love them with the love of Jesus. Remember that love is gentle, kind, and full of grace. Yes, pray fervently. For the prayer of a righteous man avails much. And yes, invite them to go to church, but don't force their hand. No one likes a pushy Christian who has all the answers to life's dillemas.<br />
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<b>You're Not My Provider</b><br />
Ultimately, it's God who owns the name Jehovah Jireh. It's God who provides even our basic needs. It's God who has blessed us with careers, income, and the ability to give. It's God who puts the food on our tables every day and provides the funds to sponsor that child in Honduras. It would be a true blessing if He poured an abundance of money into our bank account this year. But money isn't the heart issue.<br />
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<b>Seek First the Kingdom of God</b><br />
The question we must ask ourselves is whether or not we are seeking first the kingdom of God, because then all these things will be added unto us. After all, our bank account isn't going to heaven with us. And the next generation may make unwise choices with their financial inheritance. What is important is the treasure we can take to heaven with us. Did we feed those who hungered for the Word of God? Did we live as an epistle that proclaimed the love of Jesus? Did we share our testimony of God's goodness and mercy following us every day of our lives? What eternal inheritance are we leaving behind?<br />
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As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, let's remember the cost of our redemption. And praise God He was willing to pay the price. Because He loves us so much. <br />
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And remember, to Jesus you were worth it all ...Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-34515807348754418402013-11-19T12:04:00.002-05:002013-11-19T12:04:35.505-05:00A Book Review ~ Singularity by Steven James<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You'll hold your breath through the pages of Steven James' latest thriller in the Jevin Banks series, <i>Singularity</i>.<br />
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I was hesitant to read <i>Singularity</i>, because the first book in the series, <i>Placebo</i>, was a little heady for me and not as fast-paced a read as I'd hoped for. Not so with this one. From page one James had me hooked, holding my breath along with his characters (escape artists), and flipping pages. Throughout the novel I waited for the bad guy to cross paths with the good guy and for Jevin to have to escape a situation he may not get out of alive. This is definitely an edge-of-your-seat read.<br />
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My biggest concern with Placebo was the amount of information Steven James shared, which continually pulled me from my fictional dream and slowed the read. In this novel, when James must share information to let the reader in on the magician's ability to deceive his audience or to show us exactly what that robotic equipment is capable of doing, it didn't come across as an info dump or snap me out of my fictional dream.<br />
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I think he's found his groove and cannot wait for the next novel in the Jevin Banks series to release.<br />
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To get your copy, please visit one of the bookseller below:<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Singularity-Jevin-Banks-Novel-Experience/dp/0800734262/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1384880114&sr=8-3&keywords=Singularity">Amazon</a><br />
<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/singularity-steven-james/1117335642?ean=9780800719357">Barnes & Noble</a><br />
<a href="http://www.christianbook.com/singularity-jevin-banks-steven-james/9780800734268/pd/734260?item_code=WW&netp_id=1133135&event=ESRCG&view=details">CBD</a><br />
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To read my review of <i>Placebo</i>, visit here: <a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2012/11/book-review-placebo-by-steven-james.html">Placebo Review</a>Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-39091425342977927982013-10-31T07:30:00.000-04:002013-10-31T07:30:00.731-04:00A Book Review ~ Memory's Door by James L. Rubart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Taking a line from James L. Rubart's latest novel, "That was a ride on the far side of extreme." <i>Memory's Door</i> had me pinned to my seat as I flew through the novel.<br />
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The sequel to <i>Soul's Gate</i>, <i>Memory's Door</i> is a journey into battling the spirit of religion that reigns in today's society. But that isn't where it ends. Underneath is the story of forgiveness. And this is the part that touched me the deepest.<br />
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I'm a self-proclaimed perfectionist. I like to do things right. I like it when others do things right. And I grit my teeth when I make mistakes or fail. When my sin nature rules, my flesh strong and spirit weak. Which brings me to my personal struggle with forgiving. Sure, I can easily forgive another. It's myself I have the hard time forgiving. Because I know I could have done it better. Because I know the hurt or inconvenience my mistakes have caused others. Because I want to be better than I am. I don't want to accept my human flaws. I want to be more like Jesus.<br />
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Page 300 of <i>Memory's Door</i> is my favorite.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"It didn't make sense. Why wasn't Jesus showing him? There was nothing to see. Nothing to see. Nothing." </blockquote>
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Marcus is realizing that God wipes away our sin. Forgiven. Nothing remains. Only Jesus. I cried as I read this on an airplane, stuck between two passengers. Nowhere to hide as I wiped my cheeks with the cuff of my sweatshirt sleeve. It takes a good writer to make me cry while I'm reading a book. I think this is only the second time it's happened to me.<br />
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<i>Memory's Door</i> isn't just a novel. It's a call to live free. Free from the condemnation of the enemy, who would have us bound tight and unable to fight for the kingdom of God if he could. It's a call to free ourselves from the mistakes of our past, to have no regrets, and to learn to forgive ourselves as Jesus Christ has forgiven us.<br />
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I highly recommend Jim's novels. Every one of them has something significant to say about our spiritual well-being, about the choices we make every day. <i>Memory's Door</i> is now my second favorite. Please read it. It won't disappoint you.<br />
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You can obtain a copy of <i>Memory's Door</i> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Memorys-Door-Well-Spring-Novel/dp/1401686079/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1383072263&sr=8-1&keywords=memory%27s+door+by+james+rubart">{here}</a>. <br />
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PS - That first book that made me cry was Gina Holmes' <i>Crossing Oceans</i>. And my still-all-time-favorite novel of Jim's is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rooms-Novel-James-L-Rubart/dp/1441888128/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1383072263&sr=8-2&keywords=memory%27s+door+by+james+rubart"><i>Rooms</i></a>.Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-78237191883938244832013-10-30T07:30:00.000-04:002013-10-30T07:30:01.395-04:00Why I've Been MIAHello my faithful readers! I have missed you so! Many days I have sat down to work and wished I had the time to share my heart with you.<br />
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In this post, I would like to share what's been happening. I would also like to share what you can expect in the near future as I follow God's lead to do something new in 2014.<br />
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First, we moved from New Mexico to New York mid-August. We arrived just in time for our children to begin school at the local Christian Academy. However, we couldn't move into our rental home until mid-September. At which point I found myself unpacking all of these boxes and bins and then some. It's taken me longer to settle this time than it has in five years and six moves. I'm not sure why that is, but I think I'm now settled into the home. Three months later...<br />
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Then, I tried getting back into a normal schedule. Readjusting to East Coast time has been a challenge. Getting used to school starting at 8:00 a.m. instead of 7:00 a.m. has also taken awhile. Not having to get up with my husband at 4:30 a.m. has shifted my schedule, which has thrown my time management skills out of whack. It's taken longer than I expected to fall back into a routine and catch up on my editing and writing work. I hope y'all don't mind that I've been MIA. I hope to get back to some semblance of "normal" within the next month. Slowly. One step at a time. In grace.<br />
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Here are my darlings on their first day of school: <br />
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Since they've been back in school, we've been involved in things both old and new. As a result, our evening schedule has become more active. Hannah is singing in the choir. All four are learning to play various stringed instruments and a recorder. Homework is a usual part of our routine, although their teachers say it shouldn't be necessary -- with the exception of studying for tests. We have cell groups one night a week, Wednesday night service, and the occasional weeknight event. It's so great to be "home." To be with friends, with family who love us, and in a church body that's active and thriving. We're enjoying the comforts of home.<br />
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We still don't know what the future holds for our family. Daddy is working hard to provide for our needs, and we're praying he can find a job that will allow us to be together all of the time and have the stability of living in one place. Until that happens, we pray, we seek His will, and we wait. Patiently. Or not so patiently. But we wait.<br />
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This month, I celebrated the release of two books I've had the pleasure of editing.<br />
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Youth Minister Cyle Young is an award-winning author and has released his devotional for tweens and teens entitled Belly Buttons and Broken Hearts. I confess: I snorted a couple of times while editing his book. There are several lines throughout that had me laughing every time I read them, and I read them at least a hundred times. You won't want to miss his laugh-out-loud devos. And, if you grew up in the 80s, you'll appreciate the flashbacks, so this book isn't only for tweens and teens. Get your copy <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Belly-Buttons-Broken-Hearts-Young/dp/1938499972/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1383066663&sr=8-1&keywords=belly+buttons+and+broken+hearts">{here}</a>.<br />
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Elaine Marie Cooper is celebrating the release of her YA Historical Fiction novel Fields of the Fatherless. This amazon best-selling author has written the tale of Betsy Russell, a young girl who experiences trauma as the Revolutionary War breaks out in her backyard in Menotomy Village, Massachusetts. Based on a true story, this book will resonate with you until the last shot of the flintlock sounds. Be sure to check it out! You can obtain your copy <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fields-Fatherless-Elaine-Marie-Cooper/dp/1938499921/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1383067595&sr=8-2&keywords=Fields+of+the+Fatherless">{here}</a>.<br />
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If you decide to read either of these books, please consider heading over to amazon and leaving a review. You could also leave your thoughts in the comments section of this post. I'm sure the authors would love to know what you enjoyed.<br />
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<a href="http://nanowrimo.org/">NaNoWriMo</a> is just around the corner. I'm hoping to finish the edits on my current WIP this week and then attempt to pound out a second novel in November. If you'll be participating, be sure to find me (AlyciaMorales) and become my buddy. I need all the accountability and encouragement I can get!<br />
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Now, for the <b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">future</span></b>... <br />
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In 2014, I plan to launch a ministry based on the vision God has given me. This ministry will speak to women, encouraging them to discover their identity in Jesus Christ. So often, we get wrapped up in being Mommy, wife, career woman, and every other hat we have to wear. Ask any woman who she is, and she'll tell you about her husband, kids, and career. We tend to forget to mention that we are first and foremost daughters of the King of Kings. This new ministry will speak to us as such, encouraging us to find God's vision of who we are. I hope you'll join me as I debut a new site in January 2014.<br />
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I can hear many of you wondering, "But what will happen to The Thoughtful Spot?" Rest assured, it's not going anywhere. However, the site's focus will shift a bit. One thing I've discovered about myself and who God created me to be is that I have a knack for encouraging writers. So, as a writer and an editor, I will be doing that here at The Thoughtful Spot. I will do my best to post regularly each week. Some posts you can expect to read are Monday Meditations for Writers, Blogging Through the Book (I love reading books and promoting others.), Visual Stimulation (encouraging photo graphics), Book Reviews, and Helpful Hints. My niche is editing, so I'll share some of the things writers should watch for when they are working through their own writing projects. I hope you'll continue to hang with me here, as well.<br />
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What do you have on the horizon? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section. I love to hear from you!Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-10211415475554837352013-09-25T11:37:00.000-04:002013-09-25T11:37:47.122-04:00Where Is Your Trust?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last month our family made a move across the United States. To two different, rather expensive areas. I moved to Upstate New York while my husband moved to Washington DC.<br />
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Of all the moves we've made in the past few years, this has been the most challenging. Finances have been tight. Issues and roadblocks have arisen. It's been a battle from day one.<br />
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In the process, countenances have dropped. I had several people ask if I was okay on Sunday after church. Maybe my blank stare concerned them... But yes, I am okay.<br />
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Why? Because my trust isn't in my bank account or my husband's employer or the vehicle that gets us back and forth. My trust is in Jehovah Jireh, the Lord God of heaven and earth, Jesus, my Salvation.<br />
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While reading Psalm 33 this morning, I came across this (verses 13-22):<br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>The Lord looks from heaven;</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>He sees all the sons of men.</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>From the place of His dwelling He looks</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>On all the inhabitants of the earth;</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>He fashions their hearts individually;</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>He considers all their works.</b></span></blockquote>
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God knows each and every one of us individually. He created our hearts. He knows our most intimate places and thoughts. He considers all that we do and say in this lifetime. So why do we question if He knows our needs?<br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>No king is saved by the multitude of an army;</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>A mighty man is not delivered by great strength.</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>A horse is a vain hope for safety;</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>Neither shall it deliver any by its great strength.</b></span></blockquote>
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An army can't save a king. Only God can. Strength can't deliver a mighty man. Only God can. There is no safety in a horse. It's not strong enough to save, either. Only Jesus saves. There is nothing we can say or do in and of ourselves that can save us on this earth. Only Jesus can do that. So why do we continue to strive in the midst of a struggle? Why do we thrash and grit our teeth and try to continue in our own strength when God doesn't come through in our pitiful timing?<br />
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<b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him,</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #0c343d;">On those who hope in His mercy,</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #0c343d;">To deliver their soul from death,</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #0c343d;">And to keep them alive in famine.</span></b></blockquote>
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When we fear the Lord, when we walk in His salvation, He keeps a close eye on us. He will deliver us from whatever lies in wait for our lives. Depression. Anxiety. Financial hardship. Abuse. The car accident around the corner. The chimney fire waiting to break out. These are not things to fear or allow to cling to us. We are set free by Jesus! He delivers our soul from death. He keeps us alive (and provides our needs) in times of famine.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Our soul waits for the Lord;</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #0c343d;">He is our help and our shield.<br />For our heart shall rejoice in Him,</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Because we have trusted in His holy name.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Let Your mercy, O Lord, be upon us,</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Just as we hope in You.</span></b></blockquote>
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Is your soul waiting for the Lord? Are you watching for His cue? Are you listening for his response? Are you crying out to the One who can answer?<br />
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Is Jesus your help and your shield? Or are you looking for kings and strong men and horses to bail you out? Who are you leaning on? Who are you looking to for the solution to your present circumstance? The things of this earth are only temporary. The kingdom of God is eternal.<br />
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Is your heart rejoicing in God? Are you able to sing in the morning and the evening because you trust His holy name?<br />
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Let God's mercy be upon you. Hope in Him. He is able to meet your needs inside and out. He is able to provide what the world can't give. Let God be your trust and your shield today.<br />
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<b>Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;</b><br />
<b>and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.</b><br />
<b>~ Philippians 4:6-7</b></blockquote>
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<br />Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-25012626907679793012013-09-23T14:03:00.000-04:002013-09-23T14:03:27.597-04:00Life Happens, So Go with the FlowFirst, let me apologize for how sporadic my posts have been in the past two months. I realize that good blogging etiquette means preparing posts ahead of time when you know you'll be on the road or absent for a while, but sometimes one becomes so busy they don't have time to set that up. And so, we go with the flow of life.<br />
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I'm not trying to make excuses for myself. I want to give you the courage to say, "Hey. Life happened. So I took some time off from one priority to focus on another that needed my attention."<br />
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Since I appreciate you, my reader, I would love to share what's been taking up my time these past two months:<br />
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The kids and I drove from New Mexico sunrises to...</div>
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Stop in Tennessee, where I signed my author/agent contract with </div>
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Jonathan Clements of Wheelhouse Literary.</div>
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Then we headed for "home" and Upstate New York sunsets.</div>
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And family hikes...</div>
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We celebrated Ezra's 14th birthday.</div>
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I took the cousins to a Secret Keeper Girl : Crazy Hair Tour event.</div>
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And mid-September, we finally moved into our rental home.</div>
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I've been unpacking these for the past two weeks.</div>
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And these...</div>
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The best thing about our yard so far is the apple tree,</div>
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where she likes to come to eat.</div>
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The kids have started school at the local Christian academy.</div>
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We've celebrated my niece's Sweet 16.</div>
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And she and I both reacted this way when we found out she gets to go to Comic Con in October.</div>
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And we've celebrated Gooby's 9th birthday.</div>
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And finally, this week, the leaves have been turning amazing colors -</div>
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something I've been looking forward to seeing since we moved a little over a month ago.</div>
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And there you have it! It's been a busy month and a half, to say the least. I am pleased to have my office unpacked and be able to return to work, and my posts should become regular again soon. Thank you for your patience in the meantime. And remember, don't stress if life happens and some things cannot get done for a season. If they're important, they'll still be there when life settles down again. Give yourself and others some grace. It goes a long way...</div>
Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-45055567393835211262013-09-11T10:02:00.000-04:002013-09-11T10:02:18.417-04:00Epic Grace ~ Adjusting Expectations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am a bit of a perfectionist. As such, I tend to hold high expectations of myself (and others around me, most times). I also tend to beat myself up when I fail. (I try not to do this to others when they fail. I like to encourage them instead.)<br />
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He doesn't know it, but my step-son taught this perfectionist a life lesson in Epic Grace.<br />
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Zachary was four when I met his father, eight when we married, and twelve when he came to live with us so he could attend the Christian academy across the street.<br />
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Coming from a home where education was heralded - both of my parents went to college, my mother was a teacher, and we kids were expected to keep our grades up - my expectations were quite high for Zachary's grades. Although, I did have a small amount of grace. If there was a subject that was simply difficult to grasp, I understood that well enough. I'd passed high school math with 67s on my regents exams, even after pursuing extra help from three different teachers.<br />
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My requirement was that Zachary and our children worked hard, did the best they could, and completed their work.<br />
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Here's the thing about some kids (two of mine included): They only do what they absolutely have to do to get by. They never push to do more or do better.<br />
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I always saw that as a lazy attitude.<br />
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To some extent it is.<br />
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To another extent, maybe that's how God has wired them.<br />
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As a straight-A student (despite my math and science test scores), it bothered me that Zach wouldn't reach for a "B," at least. I knew he was smart enough and capable of obtaining higher grades.<br />
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It wasn't until my oldest son imitated Zachary that I realized that maybe a "C" average was Zach's best. His best may be different from my best. Which caused me to reconsider my expectations.<br />
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<b>Epic Grace looks like lowering our expectations of one another and allowing an overwhelming love to preside in their place.</b> Math may be a challenge for me, but God has graced me with a few more talents in English. A "C" may be all my sons can achieve on paper, but God has graced them with amazing abilities when the work is hands-on.<br />
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<b>What's more important than the grade we receive on our papers is the attitude with which we do what we do.</b><br />
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><b>And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><b>knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ (Colossians 3:23-24).</b></span><br />
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When we serve the Lord as we do the dishes, take our math tests, and run our churches, there's Epic Grace for those of us who do these things heartily unto the Lord.<br />
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As for my children? As long as I witness their best efforts, I'm okay with "C" averages and the occasional stray sock. ;) Are you? <br />
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To read more about <i>Epic Grace: Chronicles of a Recovering Idiot</i>, you can find Pastor Kurt Bubna's book here:<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Epic-Grace-Chronicles-Recovering-Idiot/dp/1414385048/">amazon</a><br />
<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/epic-grace-kurt-w-bubna/1114918369?ean=9781414385044">Barnes and Noble</a><br />
<a href="http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=385044&product_redirect=1&Ntt=385044&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP">CBD</a><br />
<a href="http://www.parable.com/i.Epic-Grace-Chronicles-of-a-Recovering-Idiot-Bubna-Kurt-W.9781414385044">Parable</a><br />
<br />
Join Pastor Bubna (pronounced Boob-nuh) at <a href="http://kurtbubna.com/">his blog</a>. You'll find his posts very encouraging and down to earth but heaven sent.<br />
<br />
Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-49257984021267705402013-09-10T10:30:00.002-04:002013-09-10T10:30:27.514-04:00Epic Grace ~ Destiny Matters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you'd told me ten years ago that I would be rewriting a novel, encouraging other writers in their gifts, rubbing shoulders with some of the best authors in Christian literature, and teaching at writers conferences across the country, I'd have looked at you dumbfounded.<br />
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As a young child, I had a dream of being a writer or a magazine editor. I loved immersing myself in story worlds as an escape from real life and all its teenaged drama. I loved running my hand over the glossy faces of the cute guys who lit up my movie screens, dreaming of having the opportunity to interview them. And in 1992, I left home in pursuit of a degree in Mass Communications and Journalism with a minor in English that I never completed.<br />
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Instead, in 1994 I fell in love with Jesus and walked away from the college life that kept trying to call me back into my sinful ways.<br />
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And for four years or so I quit reading books of any sort with the exception of the Bible. For ten years I didn't pick up a single fiction novel. That desire to read and write had died.<br />
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Rather than focus on the dream of a career, I switched gears to focus on the dream of getting married and having babies. And I focused on growing deeper in my relationship with my First Love, Jesus. Which lead to a life of service in ministry.<br />
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In late 2009, I wrestled inside of myself. I'd been serving my husband and my children for ten years. I'd laid down my life for them, and I really wanted something for myself. I wanted to use my gifts and talents for God's kingdom, and I wanted something to do that I enjoyed.<br />
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That's when God spoke a very clear calling: "I want you to write for Me."<br />
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Flash forward nearly four years: I am rewriting my first novel and find myself very encouraged as others who've been able to read glimpses of it keep asking for more. I am currently working with six different authors, encouraging them in their craft and talent. I'm friends with some of my favorite authors. And I'll be teaching for the first time at a writers conference this October. (And I've resumed reading. A wide variety of books, including fiction novels, which I love.)<br />
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Because <b>God's grace is EPIC.</b> Kurt Bubna recently released his book <i>Epic Grace: Chronicles of a Recovering Idiot</i>. In the back of the book, Kurt provides a discussion guide. One of the questions he asks is what Epic Grace means to you. Here's my answer: <b>I really don't deserve any of this. God must REALLY love me.</b><br />
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Because only God could send a lowly little writer like me to her first writers conference in 2010 and have her teaching at one in 2013. Because only God could give a servant of His like me the favor of award-winning authors in the industry. Because only God...<br />
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This week, as I read John 6, a very familiar verse took on a new meaning. I pray it does for you, too.<br />
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"Lazarus, come forth!"<br />
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We all know the call of resurrection Jesus gave his good friend, Lazarus. Lazarus had been dead for so long he'd been bound in grave cloths.<br />
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What has died in your life? What dreams, desires, hopes, talents, and gifts have you laid to rest because of the negative words of others, the circumstances of life, or your own self-doubt? Is there something you really want to do for God but feel you are unworthy or incapable of doing?<br />
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What in your life does Jesus need to call forth, to resurrect?<br />
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Consider this verse that follows Jesus' call to Lazarus:<br />
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with graveclothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth</span> (John 11:44).</b><br />
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Maybe Jesus has already called you forth, but your hands and feet are bound, immobilizing you. Maybe your face is still wrapped in that cloth, rendering you blind, deaf, and mute. What then?<br />
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"Loose him, and let him go." Jesus commanded the graveclothes to free Lazarus of their grip. He can do the same for you.<br />
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Because He loves you, and even when you think you don't deserve it, He knows you do.<br />
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And this is His Epic Grace for you. Chase that dream. Pursue that career you've always wanted. Get on your face and beg God to loose your barrenness. <b>Don't let death bind you and keep you from God's promises over your life.</b> Come forth and reach for your inheritance of abundant life and the saving grace of our Lord.<br />
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To read more about Epic Grace, you can find the book here:<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Epic-Grace-Chronicles-Recovering-Idiot/dp/1414385048/">amazon</a><br />
<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/epic-grace-kurt-w-bubna/1114918369?ean=9781414385044">Barnes and Noble</a><br />
<a href="http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=385044&product_redirect=1&Ntt=385044&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP">CBD</a><br />
<a href="http://www.parable.com/i.Epic-Grace-Chronicles-of-a-Recovering-Idiot-Bubna-Kurt-W.9781414385044">Parable</a><br />
<br />
Join Pastor Bubna (pronounced Boob-nuh) at <a href="http://kurtbubna.com/">his blog</a>. You'll find his posts very encouraging and down to earth but heaven sent. Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-10023927953085326412013-08-17T08:00:00.000-04:002013-08-17T08:00:04.156-04:00Book Review: The In-Between by Jeff Goins<b> "Life is one big wait."</b><br />
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I realized this truth over the course of this past year when I found myself waiting for our family's next move. It dawned on me that I lived in between moves. And when I was waiting for the next move to arrive, I was in between cities, friends, and churches. My kids were in between schools, teachers, youth groups, and their own friendships. We are always waiting for the next {whatever}. It's taken some time for me to discover the value of experiencing life to its fullest in the in-between.<br />
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Whether you're waiting like I am or you're waiting in line at the grocery store, our life is one big wait. And while we're waiting, we need to live in the moment.<br />
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Jeff Goins realized this truth and shared it from his heart in his latest book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-In-Between-Embracing-Tension-Spiritual/dp/0802407242"><i>The In-Between: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing.</i></a> In the process of sharing his testimony of waiting, we come to understand our life is not just a journey. With Jeff's help, we can discover the deeper meaning of our own waiting.<br />
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The In-Between is a memoir packed with a lesson we can all learn from. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfWYj9JEGX7bTLl6EsidtlI49pcZF5ecWx5xcWv4AH-5DfuN5izvPss-YL08d5DzN4wE9tLB4rE0RlqJXLbDpVRqMwHfdyi4f7U4sHyPZaKQI3Y2oCeZ6wKVpsfemsl5FAqOo0AOGD9KQ/s1600/Jeff_Goins.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfWYj9JEGX7bTLl6EsidtlI49pcZF5ecWx5xcWv4AH-5DfuN5izvPss-YL08d5DzN4wE9tLB4rE0RlqJXLbDpVRqMwHfdyi4f7U4sHyPZaKQI3Y2oCeZ6wKVpsfemsl5FAqOo0AOGD9KQ/s1600/Jeff_Goins.png" /></a></div>
For more info about Jeff's book, please visit: <a href="http://goinswriter.com/">http://goinswriter.com/</a><br />
To order: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-In-Between-Embracing-Tension-Spiritual/dp/0802407242"><i>The In-Between: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing</i></a>.<br />
<br />
You won't want to miss out! (He's also written several posts to give
you a taste of the material in his book and what others are saying about
it.)Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-45895096746982511822013-08-16T11:27:00.000-04:002013-08-27T07:24:45.538-04:00Full Circle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFs4yt6uAyOgOVq-fqKw3-7Lp3uakMhm_24USyaTkeD1cOils0MJPRSiFYi_UoefcWhISAw14uE9vT1ge_bDtxh_cZJ7Txso6tXZcjOyhCkTsmTZXE-V8sNKZZ0TeMX-yaqJIPjoxJkGM/s1600/Hannah+Joins+Us+Copyright.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFs4yt6uAyOgOVq-fqKw3-7Lp3uakMhm_24USyaTkeD1cOils0MJPRSiFYi_UoefcWhISAw14uE9vT1ge_bDtxh_cZJ7Txso6tXZcjOyhCkTsmTZXE-V8sNKZZ0TeMX-yaqJIPjoxJkGM/s320/Hannah+Joins+Us+Copyright.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There's nothing like going home.<br />
<br />
We've come to a point in our journey where we're at a crossroads. Vic and I have had to take our family's well-being into consideration. We have two children in middle school this year, one who isn't far behind, and a fourth who will get there soon enough.<br />
<br />
The trouble with moving around so much is that our children have been exposed to things in life we'd hoped they wouldn't have to face for at least a couple more years. The public schools aren't the same as they were when my husband and I were young. Our kids must deal with far more than we did at their ages. Which forces us to ask ourselves what's best for them.<br />
<br />
After a month of deliberation and dealing with the impact their school experiences have had on them, we decided it's time for the kids and I to embark on a new journey - one that will take us "home."<br />
<br />
We've done this separation of our family once before. For six months. It was the most difficult thing I've ever been through. I now understand why spouses die of broken hearts. I spent six months feeling that intense desire for my husband that wracked every fiber of my being. Talking on the phone helped momentarily but never cured me. What cured me was our reunion at the end of half a year that felt like eternity.<br />
<br />
So it is with sweet sorrow that we part ways once more.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, I cannot wait to step into our church and be reunited with family. I cannot wait to hear "Uncle" Randy say, "Welcome Home."<br />
<br />
The place I ran from as a teen. The place I bloomed where I was planted. The place God is bringing me back to.<br />
<br />
Which took a miracle.<br />
<br />
See, there are these mountains in Virginia/North Carolina/Kentucky/Tennessee that have grabbed hold of my heart and won't let go. There are these mountains that take my breath away every time their foothills appear in my windshield. There are these mountains I dream of moving to one day and settling into. They will be my comfort zone. They will be the place I call home.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicxd6sRj_4xRJR0tkbhF6S1vAqnDhqEe0TWyuyUwlSAMoSYNWve-FePNflRwbw6WZMeuzt7whAUQf2tq69wqhCZaYVR7ZoFR4B_sPA5Knh-MtOV3b53xbtUwUvMgeEtGk4ygZwpjCWwo4/s1600/Black+Mountains+9+Copyrighted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicxd6sRj_4xRJR0tkbhF6S1vAqnDhqEe0TWyuyUwlSAMoSYNWve-FePNflRwbw6WZMeuzt7whAUQf2tq69wqhCZaYVR7ZoFR4B_sPA5Knh-MtOV3b53xbtUwUvMgeEtGk4ygZwpjCWwo4/s320/Black+Mountains+9+Copyrighted.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And I told God it would take a mighty move in my heart to ever get me to move back to New York.<br />
<br />
Today I find myself packing boxes with anticipation. I consider this next season and find myself actually looking forward to going home.<br />
<br />
Because home ...<br />
<br />
Is where the trees turn brilliant colors of red, orange, yellow, and purple and the air is crisp {and autumn is right around the corner}.<br />
<br />
Is where games of Scrabble over pumpkin spice coffee with my mom and sister await me.<br />
<br />
Is where a dynamic ministry awaits and my kids and I can experience another wonderful season of growth.<br />
<br />
Is where family gatherings for all kinds of occasions delight the heart and nourish the soul.<br />
<br />
Is where I find myself anxious to arrive...<br />
<br />
Because I can settle in for a few years and rest from our travels.<br />
<br />
So I can begin a new journey as our children finish out their school careers.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_TtC7COh1rF4eHHplnNU2UL7sArRTm0Ojx0f8FJWdC0el_UKLh-6aw20EjvwsMSrWZla32ZfVXe2kiWS1ZM30P156OPo7mOliSIKiP03uXPn74FdbuR7cl1Ba8QGXebGf1BMeXCfS54U/s1600/Catskill+Views+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_TtC7COh1rF4eHHplnNU2UL7sArRTm0Ojx0f8FJWdC0el_UKLh-6aw20EjvwsMSrWZla32ZfVXe2kiWS1ZM30P156OPo7mOliSIKiP03uXPn74FdbuR7cl1Ba8QGXebGf1BMeXCfS54U/s320/Catskill+Views+1.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Home, for now, is in another set of mountains. They're a little lower than the Blue Ridges. They're a little rounder than the Blue Ridges. They're a little faster paced than the Blue Ridges. But they have a beauty all their own. And I can't wait to see them in my windshield.<br />
<br />
Thank you for taking the time to experience the in-between with me this week. I hope you've enjoyed the posts, and I hope you'll consider picking up a copy of Jeff's book. I'll leave my review of it tomorrow.<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Monday's Post: <a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/get-me-out-of-here.html">Get Me Out of Here!</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Tuesday's Post: <a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/what-happened-in-waiting.html">What Happened in the Waiting</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Wednesday's Post: <a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/on-road-again.html">On the Road Agai</a><br />
Thursday's Post: <a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/whats-your-dream.html">What's Your Dream? </a></div>
<a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/on-road-again.html">
</a>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR7lw0QORsdTAspIb-Q3D8rNSRgr3fPiaJ0oRyPgzHain90rdtYPFuIOKgMSxYlwzmzepHgPkjIbDj1pVDy40qvVXXzuHASEjGzIeai6Z5t4cSTkKO_Migh5CrWqO_hkUeq5URDnomhc/s1600/The-In-Between3D.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR7lw0QORsdTAspIb-Q3D8rNSRgr3fPiaJ0oRyPgzHain90rdtYPFuIOKgMSxYlwzmzepHgPkjIbDj1pVDy40qvVXXzuHASEjGzIeai6Z5t4cSTkKO_Migh5CrWqO_hkUeq5URDnomhc/s200/The-In-Between3D.png" width="140" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For more info about Jeff's book, please visit: <a href="http://goinswriter.com/">http://goinswriter.com/</a> Jeff has some great giveaways for ordering <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-In-Between-Embracing-Tension-Spiritual/dp/0802407242"><i>The In-Between: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing</i></a>.
You won't want to miss out! (He's also written several posts to give
you a taste of the material in his book and what others are saying about
it.)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
On Saturday, enjoy my review of <i>The In-Between.</i></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-51004905135458852682013-08-15T08:00:00.000-04:002013-08-15T08:00:10.480-04:00What's Your Dream?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZDN2lHVReGhGMSXvO0V2RkhDQYhyphenhyphentIhrZltHzQTyh0Muljg_4p-vZyf5B_Vcc0hSU7V1wtYlCBV9McCoSVsoI6V3zuuchM62sgLzF6mXjUrAFF-cUKYo1R9m-BxAUbFMRIziJgzdG6M/s1600/It's+About+Obedience.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZDN2lHVReGhGMSXvO0V2RkhDQYhyphenhyphentIhrZltHzQTyh0Muljg_4p-vZyf5B_Vcc0hSU7V1wtYlCBV9McCoSVsoI6V3zuuchM62sgLzF6mXjUrAFF-cUKYo1R9m-BxAUbFMRIziJgzdG6M/s400/It's+About+Obedience.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
In the winter of 2009/10, I found myself depressed. I'd spent so much time and energy on everyone and everything except myself that I spiraled into a couple of anxiety attacks.<br />
<br />
I'd shared my life with everyone else, and I began to realize I needed to find something I could do for myself. In an unselfish way. I needed a release.<br />
<br />
So I prayed. "Lord, what can I do for you?"<br />
<br />
It was January of 2010 when I "received my call." God responded audibly for the second time in my life. "Write for Me."<br />
<br />
Ooh... It had been forever since I'd written anything more than a journal entry or a blog post. That bubble of excitement emerged deep inside of me and grew until I felt like I might burst.<br />
<br />
I researched Christian Writers online. It was then I discovered the <a href="http://altongansky.typepad.com/writersconferences/">Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference</a>. Since it was already February, I took a step of faith and registered for the May conference. I knew no one. I knew almost nothing.<br />
<br />
Sure, I'd gone to college and taken a few communications classes, but I'd never gotten into the journalism aspect of the program. What could I do?<br />
<br />
<b>I could be obedient.</b><br />
<br />
I started reading books on the craft of writing. I blogged on a more regular basis. I searched online. I joined the conference's Yahoo! group for new attendees. And I packed for my first trip just for me.<br />
<br />
Here's what God did as a result of my obedience and stepping out in faith:<br />
- I left the conference with a new best friend, Mary Denman.<br />
- I left the conference with a mentor, Edie Melson, the co-director of the conference.<br />
- I left the conference with the interest of Focus on the Family's <i>Thriving Family</i> magazine editor. I prayed for God to drop an article idea into my heart that I could pitch to her. She loved it. I'd always dreamed of having an article published in one of Focus' magazines. God brought it to pass.<br />
- I left the conference with a request from <a href="http://christiandevotions.us/the-right-response-alycia-morales/">Christian Devotions</a> to send in the devotion I wrote at the conference, just trying my hand at their format. It ended up published on their website and in a devotional book for families. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Faith-Family-Devotional-Pathway-Families/dp/0983319669/?tag=vglnkc4189-20"><i>FAITH & FAMILY</i></a><br />
- I left the conference encouraged and soaring on eagles' wings.<br />
<br />
In the years since, God has blessed me tremendously as I've networked and created. And walked in OBEDIENCE to His call on my life.<br />
<br />
I am now the editor of <a href="http://www.inspireafire.com/">Inspire a Fire</a>, an online site for those of us who want to see God make a difference in our world. And use us to do so.<br />
<br />
I am an associate editor with Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. I also freelance edit. Which I love to do. It brings me great joy to help other authors recognize their own potential and bring their work to a new level of excellence.<br />
<br />
I just finished writing my first novel and am in rewrite mode. My editor is waiting to work on it. My agent, Jonathan Clements, is waiting to receive the finished manuscript. And I am tickled that God would bless me with such incredible people to work with.<br />
<br />
I am teaching at a writer's conference for the first time this October. If you're in the area, you won't want to miss <a href="http://classeminars.org/training/writing">CLASS Writer's Conference</a> in Albuquerque, NM this fall.<br />
<br />
God is able to do so much when we are willing to heed His call and walk in obedience and faith. I never finished college. I'd gone for four years when they cut off my student loans. For whatever reason, I couldn't get anymore.<br />
<br />
What I've learned since then is that it doesn't always take a degree. Sometimes all it takes is the will to be taught by others, to work hard, and to serve one another. Every time, the will of God is enough.<br />
<br />
So I ask you. What's your dream? What is that thing you've always wanted to do that dwells deep inside of you and you can't shake? What could you do that would bring you incredible joy? That thing is a God thing. Acknowledge it. Research it. Find out what you would need to do to step into that journey. Because if God is in it, anything is possible.<br />
<br />
I know. I'm walking it. Jeff sums up my testimony well:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>When we pour out our gifts and talents, we receive abundantly more than we ever provide.</b></div>
<br />
Don't be like the steward who buried his talent. God reaps where He does not sow. Step out in faith and see where He will take you. Don't be afraid to chase your dreams.<br />
<br />
Join me again tomorrow, when I'll share about what looks like the end of a journey (but is only the beginning of a new one, I'm sure).<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
This week, I will be preparing for another journey ... to a new season
of life for our family. A new in-between. A new season of waiting and
discovering and savoring the ordinary moments in life that lead to the
extraordinary events of life. I will leave a post each day, Monday
through Friday, for you to enjoy and think upon as I prepare for and
make my trip. These posts will lead up to where I find myself today, and
I hope that they encourage you to enjoy the wait.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Monday's Post: <a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/get-me-out-of-here.html">Get Me Out of Here!</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Tuesday's Post: <a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/what-happened-in-waiting.html">What Happened in the Waiting</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Wednesday's Post: <a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/on-road-again.html">On the Road Again </a></div>
<a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/on-road-again.html">
</a>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/on-road-again.html"></a><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR7lw0QORsdTAspIb-Q3D8rNSRgr3fPiaJ0oRyPgzHain90rdtYPFuIOKgMSxYlwzmzepHgPkjIbDj1pVDy40qvVXXzuHASEjGzIeai6Z5t4cSTkKO_Migh5CrWqO_hkUeq5URDnomhc/s1600/The-In-Between3D.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR7lw0QORsdTAspIb-Q3D8rNSRgr3fPiaJ0oRyPgzHain90rdtYPFuIOKgMSxYlwzmzepHgPkjIbDj1pVDy40qvVXXzuHASEjGzIeai6Z5t4cSTkKO_Migh5CrWqO_hkUeq5URDnomhc/s200/The-In-Between3D.png" width="140" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For more info about Jeff's book, please visit: <a href="http://goinswriter.com/">http://goinswriter.com/</a> Jeff has some great giveaways for ordering <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-In-Between-Embracing-Tension-Spiritual/dp/0802407242"><i>The In-Between: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing</i></a>.
You won't want to miss out! (He's also written several posts to give
you a taste of the material in his book and what others are saying about
it.)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
On Saturday, enjoy my review of <i>The In-Between.</i></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-88127115070241194512013-08-14T08:00:00.000-04:002013-08-14T08:00:12.727-04:00On the Road Again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjenjgfnZTNGU4mLJNYGw8_EgzlS2_ZPSoL7MocvWX7ChPrjW0S01rDSc6Tky6Xm1l5pwK6HEaz6BZ-Ca1LKfKNsGAyx1a29z0nZXgY59_nbf14XCjf7Rr5GlE7Sat8-tQZDdQaeQRCuh0/s1600/Not+Ahead+Not+Behind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjenjgfnZTNGU4mLJNYGw8_EgzlS2_ZPSoL7MocvWX7ChPrjW0S01rDSc6Tky6Xm1l5pwK6HEaz6BZ-Ca1LKfKNsGAyx1a29z0nZXgY59_nbf14XCjf7Rr5GlE7Sat8-tQZDdQaeQRCuh0/s400/Not+Ahead+Not+Behind.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Have you ever waited a long time for something? If so, then you know the anticipation, anxiety, and wonder that belong to a long wait.<br />
<br />
For ten years prophets told my husband that God would give him full-time employment. He would become a company man. We would see increase. We would want for nothing.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, back at the ranch... Vic worked union construction those ten years. It was a roller-coaster of a life. Just as we'd dig out of an unemployment hole, he would get laid off again (as the job came to an end - not because he didn't do his job well). We'd get right back into debt while we waited for the next call from the union hall.<br />
<br />
I hated waiting.<br />
<br />
Life was stressful, to say the least. We were getting used to being a step-family. Our finances were rarely stable. We bought our first house. And I stayed home with the kids, doing anything I could think of to make a little extra money for the family. {I wish I'd thought of writing back then.}<br />
<br />
BUT GOD...<br />
<br />
Had promised.<br />
<br />
It was May 2008, Memorial Day Weekend. Thursday, to be exact. We had $400 in our bank account when Vic got antsy and decided to make some phone calls. I'll spare the details, but I'll tell you this: The call was nothing short of a miracle.<br />
<br />
Vic had worked for this guy once, four or five years prior. He asked if the company had any local work. "No, but you're like an angel calling. I am in need of guys. Can you be in Alabama on Tuesday?"<br />
<br />
We lived in Upstate NY. Alabama was 21 hours away by car. We had $400. And God saw us through.<br />
<br />
I never wanted to raise our kids on my own, but desperate times called for desperate measures. I packed my husband's things and sent him on his way, praying for the day I'd be able to join him.<br />
<br />
July 4th weekend the kids and I moved to be with him in Mobile, AL.<br />
<br />
Jeff has a line in his book that says, "One evening, though, everything started to slow down."<br />
<br />
When you're used to living the fast-paced life of a New Yorker and you pull into the South, you notice pretty quickly that everything (except the highway) slows down. It's culture shock but in an awesome way. I fell in love with the South and its slower pace of life.<br />
<br />
I love that people take the time to enjoy their relationships. There's nothing like a cold glass of sweet tea on the back porch with a group of your friends. There's nothing like King's Cake and coffee over a game of Phase 10 with your buds. There's nothing like Southern Boil strewn across newspapers on the table and fellowship with the Pastor's family. And coming from New York, there's nothing like someone coming to a near stop to let you into the lane so you can turn off at the right moment. That rarely (never) happens in New York. It didn't take me long to figure out that these in-between times are what make life abundant. I loved slowing down.<br />
<br />
God has blessed my husband and me with incredible careers. We love our work. He's currently a Construction Engineer, and I am a writer and an editor {and I'm not afraid to claim it}. Vic is a company man. We haven't wanted for anything in a long time. We've definitely seen increase.<br />
<br />
But life on the road is full of in-betweens. When you move once every 6 - 18 months, you live in the in-between.<br />
<br />
In between job sites.<br />
<br />
In between packing.<br />
<br />
In between road trips to move.<br />
<br />
In between schools and teachers and friends.<br />
<br />
In between cities and states.<br />
<br />
And you learn yet again that it's there ... in the in-between ... that life happens. It's there that you grow. It's there that you become. It's there that you discover exactly who God has made you to be and what He has in store for you.<br />
<br />
So what does one do in the in-between? I wrote a series of posts on that very thing even before I heard of Jeff's book:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/01/a-gift-in-waitingtime.html">A Gift in the Waiting ... Time </a><br />
<a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/01/in-midst-of-itpraying-through-wait.html">In the Midst of It {Praying Through the Wait}</a><br />
<a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/01/in-meantimewhat-to-do-while-waiting_4.html">In the Meantime ... What to Do While Waiting</a><br />
<a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/07/work-wait.html">Work the Wait</a><br />
<br />
Join me again tomorrow to read my testimony of God's calling and what He's done as I have been obedient to follow His lead.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
This week, I will be preparing for another journey ... to a new season
of life for our family. A new in-between. A new season of waiting and
discovering and savoring the ordinary moments in life that lead to the
extraordinary events of life. I will leave a post each day, Monday
through Friday, for you to enjoy and think upon as I prepare for and
make my trip. These posts will lead up to where I find myself today, and
I hope that they encourage you to enjoy the wait.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Monday's Post: <a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/get-me-out-of-here.html">Get Me Out of Here! </a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Tuesday's Post: <a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/what-happened-in-waiting.html">What Happened in the Waiting</a></div>
<a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/what-happened-in-waiting.html">
</a>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/what-happened-in-waiting.html"></a><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR7lw0QORsdTAspIb-Q3D8rNSRgr3fPiaJ0oRyPgzHain90rdtYPFuIOKgMSxYlwzmzepHgPkjIbDj1pVDy40qvVXXzuHASEjGzIeai6Z5t4cSTkKO_Migh5CrWqO_hkUeq5URDnomhc/s1600/The-In-Between3D.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR7lw0QORsdTAspIb-Q3D8rNSRgr3fPiaJ0oRyPgzHain90rdtYPFuIOKgMSxYlwzmzepHgPkjIbDj1pVDy40qvVXXzuHASEjGzIeai6Z5t4cSTkKO_Migh5CrWqO_hkUeq5URDnomhc/s200/The-In-Between3D.png" width="140" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For more info about Jeff's book, please visit: <a href="http://goinswriter.com/">http://goinswriter.com/</a> Jeff has some great giveaways for ordering <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-In-Between-Embracing-Tension-Spiritual/dp/0802407242"><i>The In-Between: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing</i></a>.
You won't want to miss out! (He's also written several posts to give
you a taste of the material in his book and what others are saying about
it.)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
On Saturday, enjoy my review of <i>The In-Between.</i></div>
<br />
<br />Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-79060089613375810762013-08-13T08:00:00.000-04:002013-08-13T08:00:11.654-04:00What Happened in The Waiting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhenW5xdgZsUeY-nqoGd_MR2QRzEOza2m2Y_tJi74l5sa7ZQ8K2oDey4vCBvDAUsZBrXsrNIlaLE2Q71NIaGlrRtXdA5bLHrlUWoehcPqDi2sE9Sk55LV9ueE24g4REZZYis3FJ_gxo4KQ/s1600/Who+I%27m+Becoming.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhenW5xdgZsUeY-nqoGd_MR2QRzEOza2m2Y_tJi74l5sa7ZQ8K2oDey4vCBvDAUsZBrXsrNIlaLE2Q71NIaGlrRtXdA5bLHrlUWoehcPqDi2sE9Sk55LV9ueE24g4REZZYis3FJ_gxo4KQ/s400/Who+I%27m+Becoming.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I wish I could tell you that I quit college, went home, and life became all I dreamed it would be.<br />
<br />
But life doesn't always work out that way.<br />
<br />
And <i>usually it's our own unwise choices</i> or the unwise choices of those we love <i>that become the cause of our discontentment.</i><br />
<br />
I only stayed a few months before I hit the road again ... with a guy.<br />
<br />
After living approximately six months away from home with this person, I discovered that being verbally and physically abused would become a lifestyle for me if I stayed with my decision to make it on my own.<br />
<br />
Apart from God.<br />
<br />
Until I got a wake-up call from the Man Himself.<br />
<br />
When God calls you out of your sinful place, you listen. Because if you don't, your life will be like that chaff that burns quickly. <i>I had a choice to make.</i> Go home with my tail between my legs in shame, or face the possibility of spending eternity in hell - on earth and in the beyond.<br />
<br />
I could really go HOME and one day enjoy a mansion in heaven, or I could never see home again.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Home is the place where we sometimes hurt the ones we love, but the back door is always open - and there is always a seat at the table.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- Jeff Goins, <i>The In-Between</i></div>
<br />
Thankfully, my parents promised I could come home, so long as I was willing to live under their authority in their house.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Only a fool would refuse a seat at the table. Because that's where God prepares a place for us. And when we rest in His place for us, goodness and mercy surely follow us all the days of our lives.</blockquote>
<br />
<b>This is what happened in the In-Between:</b><br />
<br />
<i>I waited for love</i> ... and found the love of a Savior. I discovered that God loves me as the person He created me to be. It no longer mattered what the kids in fourth grade thought of me. It no longer mattered whether or not my crush loved me in return. Because in the waiting, Jesus became my first love.<br />
<br />
<i>I waited 4 years for marriage</i> ... and the man of my dreams and a new son. The first five years of our marriage were incredibly tough, but we discovered that in the darkest places we found the deepest intimacy. And I learned all the more that no matter what my husband thought, God saw and heard everything that went on in our step-family when no one else was watching.<br />
<br />
<i>I waited another year to have my own kids</i> ... and have been blessed with four incredibly different children. I've learned to enjoy the waiting as they grow and mature. This journey in life goes faster than the blink of an eye, even when it seems to be dragging a one-ton weight. I know. My step-son is now 23. He was 4 when I met his father. My oldest is almost 14. The youngest is nearly 9. Enjoy the process of who they are becoming. Now's the time to savor the moments and take the time to teach them all you know. Tomorrow they'll be on their own journey, facing their own in-betweens.<br />
<br />
<i>My husband and I waited 10 years for the prophetic promise from God to come to pass</i> ... and today we are gratefully advancing in each of our careers, watching God do amazing things in the in-between moments. God promised my husband would become a company man - while he was working union, being shifted from company to company as he went from job site to job site. But God knew what He was doing. And we had no idea what enduring the in-between had in store ...<br />
<br />
Join me tomorrow to find out what the in-between did have in store.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
This week, I will be preparing for
another journey ... to a new season of life for our family. A new
in-between. A new season of waiting and discovering and savoring the
ordinary moments in life that lead to the extraordinary events of life. I
will leave a post each day, Monday through Friday, for you to enjoy and
think upon as I prepare for and make my trip. These posts will lead up
to where I find myself today, and I hope that they encourage you to
enjoy the wait.<br />
<br />
Read yesterday's post here: <a href="http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/get-me-out-of-here.html">http://alyciawmorales.blogspot.com/2013/08/get-me-out-of-here.html</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR7lw0QORsdTAspIb-Q3D8rNSRgr3fPiaJ0oRyPgzHain90rdtYPFuIOKgMSxYlwzmzepHgPkjIbDj1pVDy40qvVXXzuHASEjGzIeai6Z5t4cSTkKO_Migh5CrWqO_hkUeq5URDnomhc/s1600/The-In-Between3D.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR7lw0QORsdTAspIb-Q3D8rNSRgr3fPiaJ0oRyPgzHain90rdtYPFuIOKgMSxYlwzmzepHgPkjIbDj1pVDy40qvVXXzuHASEjGzIeai6Z5t4cSTkKO_Migh5CrWqO_hkUeq5URDnomhc/s200/The-In-Between3D.png" width="140" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For more info about Jeff's book, please visit: <a href="http://goinswriter.com/">http://goinswriter.com/</a> Jeff has some great giveaways for ordering <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-In-Between-Embracing-Tension-Spiritual/dp/0802407242"><i>The In-Between: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing</i></a>.
You won't want to miss out! (He's also written several posts to give
you a taste of the material in his book and what others are saying about
it.)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
On Saturday, enjoy my review of <i>The In-Between.</i></div>
<br />Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-70239326146562637562013-08-12T08:00:00.000-04:002013-08-12T08:00:12.844-04:00Get Me Out of Here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
This month, I've been immersing myself in a new book. It's titled <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-In-Between-Embracing-Tension-Spiritual/dp/0802407242"><i>The In-Between: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing</i></a>. <a href="http://goinswriter.com/">Jeff Goins </a>is the amazing author, and as I've read, I've found myself on a journey of reflection. It's been like taking a trip back in time to see where I've come from, how far I've gotten in life, and where I'm heading. The most important part? The In-Between...<br />
<br />
In the introduction to the first part of the three-part book, Jeff mentions how while we are young, we long for freedoms that haven't come. The one he mentions that I most relate to is this: the chance to move away and see the world.<br />
<br />
You see, I come from small-town America. I grew up in Margaretville, NY. Population about 600. When you gather the children from the surrounding small towns and pack them into the one K-12 school, you have about the same number. My graduating class? 24. It's the town where everyone thinks they know everyone else's business. It's the town 50 miles from the nearest Walmart or Regal Cinemas. It's the town that someone who wasn't born there can't wait to leave when they're handed their high school diploma.<br />
<br />
In 1992, I ran from Margaretville, ready to escape everyone else's ideas of who I was. Ready to be me. Ready to face life on my own. Ready to embrace my future - a future away from small town living. Because, after all, what good can come out of Margaretville, NY?<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"We were made to wait, to long for things unseen. This is the place from which dreams and desires come." </b>- Jeff Goins, <i>The In-Between</i></blockquote>
<br />
I grew up dreaming of being someone. Because I learned in third grade that I was the nobody. I was the freckle-faced, four-eyed, non-beautiful girl that was only good for kick ball. I was the last.<br />
<br />
So I started writing. I journaled. I wrote angst poetry. I put all my thoughts on paper.<br />
<br />
The only thing I loved as much as writing was music. I had a life soundtrack. I listened to everything and anything under the sun. I relished the sounds, the stories, and the dream of one day making it big.<br />
<br />
But I wasn't talented enough to sing in a band. I wasn't talented enough to be a key musician in a band (although I tried once - as a keyboardist in a band called Toe Jam - we obviously didn't get out of the garage). And my young mind didn't know there was a whole industry behind those artists I sang along with at the top of my lungs.<br />
<br />
So when it came time, I pursued the writing dream. I desired to write for the glossy magazines like Bop and Teen Beat. I wanted to tell the celebrity's stories. And off to college I went.<br />
<br />
Until I fell into a really deep pit and did what I always swore I would never do.<br />
<br />
And that's where I met Jesus. And when I couldn't maintain my relationship with Him because it was crowded out by the boys I chased, I decided to...<br />
<br />
<i>Return home</i>. Yep, I left big time college and headed back to small town life. <i>I headed home</i>.<br />
<br />
And back to waiting for the next big thing.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>All this waiting is not an accident; it's a call to slow down. These delays are meant to point us to a deeper truth: <span style="color: #cc0000;">we are not finished</span>. If we relish this reality and embrace the opportunity it holds, we may be able to grasp a depth we've not yet reached. We may find this abundant life, after all. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- Jeff Goins, <i>The In-Between</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Join me tomorrow for part two of my journey with the In-Between. I'll let you know what happened as I waited for the next big thing.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This week, I will be preparing for another journey ... to a new season of life for our family. A new in-between. A new season of waiting and discovering and savoring the ordinary moments in life that lead to the extraordinary events of life. I will leave a post each day, Monday through Friday, for you to enjoy and think upon as I prepare for and make my trip. These posts will lead up to where I find myself today, and I hope that they encourage you to enjoy the wait.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR7lw0QORsdTAspIb-Q3D8rNSRgr3fPiaJ0oRyPgzHain90rdtYPFuIOKgMSxYlwzmzepHgPkjIbDj1pVDy40qvVXXzuHASEjGzIeai6Z5t4cSTkKO_Migh5CrWqO_hkUeq5URDnomhc/s1600/The-In-Between3D.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR7lw0QORsdTAspIb-Q3D8rNSRgr3fPiaJ0oRyPgzHain90rdtYPFuIOKgMSxYlwzmzepHgPkjIbDj1pVDy40qvVXXzuHASEjGzIeai6Z5t4cSTkKO_Migh5CrWqO_hkUeq5URDnomhc/s200/The-In-Between3D.png" width="140" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For more info about Jeff's book, please visit: <a href="http://goinswriter.com/">http://goinswriter.com/</a> Jeff has some great giveaways for ordering <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-In-Between-Embracing-Tension-Spiritual/dp/0802407242"><i>The In-Between: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing</i></a>. You won't want to miss out! (He's also written several posts to give you a taste of the material in his book and what others are saying about it.)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
On Saturday, enjoy my review of <i>The In-Between.</i></div>
<br />
<br />Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-78113982856299080102013-08-09T08:00:00.000-04:002013-08-09T08:00:00.052-04:00Friday {in focus} ~ Uphold My Steps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnaYyUULlKNiX0d6rV-Q-t66ebCeA3bQkAzhidPvx3j77RHm1bq83L9SDMk8oOeJpLhAMqFVqEgNhLvPGgUPDcpGFcBgnjck-74OYJR25t_WOTM42BFjT6H3ljh1gzoXfHVOwH_pLO0AA/s1600/Uphold+My+Steps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnaYyUULlKNiX0d6rV-Q-t66ebCeA3bQkAzhidPvx3j77RHm1bq83L9SDMk8oOeJpLhAMqFVqEgNhLvPGgUPDcpGFcBgnjck-74OYJR25t_WOTM42BFjT6H3ljh1gzoXfHVOwH_pLO0AA/s640/Uphold+My+Steps.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-40087358176988724322013-08-02T08:00:00.000-04:002013-08-02T08:00:06.874-04:00Friday {in focus} ~ Rest in Hope<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZuXSKBW3VLxZc8exBOrFx3dfLxHyN1ZUjdS60LZrKqIrQcuGu-XSwU0XzdcNhhGH0cgj88vZuL_ugMXL-9yx9aTwPYxA6mkxrOzJ6Zt0844qA_Nj9xTSanMeTNIu3WgMUej61hm8R2co/s1600/Dark+Blue+Light+Burst+Copyright+Web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZuXSKBW3VLxZc8exBOrFx3dfLxHyN1ZUjdS60LZrKqIrQcuGu-XSwU0XzdcNhhGH0cgj88vZuL_ugMXL-9yx9aTwPYxA6mkxrOzJ6Zt0844qA_Nj9xTSanMeTNIu3WgMUej61hm8R2co/s400/Dark+Blue+Light+Burst+Copyright+Web.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>O Lord, You are the portion of my inheritance and my cup;</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>You maintain my lot.</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places;</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Yes, I have a good inheritance.</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>I will bless the Lord who has given me counsel;</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>My heart also instructs me in the night seasons.</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>I have set the Lord always before me;</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Therefore my heart is glad,</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>and my glory rejoices;</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>My flesh will also rest in hope.</b></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>For You will not leave my soul in Sheol,</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption.</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b> You will show me the path of life;</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>In Your presence is fullness of joy;</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b><span style="color: black;">~ Psalm 16:5-11</span> </b></span>(emphasis mine)</div>
Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-61354839166430385412013-07-29T07:30:00.000-04:002013-07-29T07:30:04.425-04:00{Minute Meditation} A Lesson from Zacchaeus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Some days I find myself standing in the midst of an emotional crowd. My thoughts are everywhere. Distractions are many. I feel claustrophobic, like everyone is pressing in on me, and I can't get out. I want to run away and hide. I can't seem to see Jesus through the crowd of life's demands.<br />
<br />
Zacchaeus was a man of short stature. He worked as a chief tax collector, and he was rich. One would think he could stand in the front lines, having the wealth he did.<br />
<br />
So why was he caught up in the crowd and unable to see?<br />
<br />
I can relate to him well. I'm not short. But when life becomes overwhelming, I have a difficult time seeing Jesus in it. Can you relate?<br />
<br />
What are we going to do when daily life crowds Jesus out? Will we get caught up in the crowd and miss His passing? Or will we, like Zacchaeus, find a way to climb above it all and allow the Lord to see us?<br />
<br />
Jesus needed a place to stay. He recognized that Zacchaeus had a heart for Him. Will you rise above your circumstances today and allow Jesus to take precedence in your heart?<br />
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<br />Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2921148538450439740.post-39787148593509899302013-07-24T10:14:00.003-04:002013-07-26T16:20:29.202-04:00The In-BetweenAs a New Yorker, I spent most of my life zipping from one moment to the next. Always looking ahead, I didn't pay as much attention to the current moment as I could have.<br />
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Until we moved South, and I learned how to slow down.<br />
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That's when my camera became my constant companion and my husband began asking, "Why can't you just enjoy the moment? Must you always take a picture of it?"<br />
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Yes. Because I love catching God's glory - that one flash of a moment that will never occur again - on film. Or screen, now that we're digital and all that.<br />
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Having camera in hand gives me the excuse to slow down and look beyond my normal range of view. I see things I would miss if I didn't have a reason to take my time and enjoy the beauty around me.<br />
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I would miss things like this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtksGPdofVSEiyXoazZyLd4hN3byEUHQ0wPl09b7ZBKpUoB27IFhgGSFGOIYtaAOWxQU7ZDI6rJiNSh3EXIcbre5t_mL9sR6yWmRepMShrwGaHDseQrgoyc_Dshr5oU5Q0zcwo6jvYfMY/s1600/Slow+and+Deliberate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtksGPdofVSEiyXoazZyLd4hN3byEUHQ0wPl09b7ZBKpUoB27IFhgGSFGOIYtaAOWxQU7ZDI6rJiNSh3EXIcbre5t_mL9sR6yWmRepMShrwGaHDseQrgoyc_Dshr5oU5Q0zcwo6jvYfMY/s640/Slow+and+Deliberate.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The rest of my family walked right past this fabulous creature as we hiked in the Blue Ridge Mountains. (PS - I know the photo bleeds into my side bar. I left it that way so you could read the quote without squinting. ;)<br />
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I like taking rest stops along the way. I don't want to zip up one side of the mountain and down the other without taking the time to enjoy the scenery, both macro and panoramic. <b>I want those mundane moments in life, because that is where the connections are made as relationships deepen. <a href="http://clicktotweet.com/fl1A5">{Tweet This}</a></b><br />
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If you want to find new meaning in the In-Between, I invite you to join me as I blog through Jeff Goins' newest book, <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-In-Between-Embracing-Tension-Between/dp/0802407242/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1374674834&sr=1-1">The In-Between: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing</a></i></b>. It releases August 1.<br />
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In the meantime, please hop over to Jeff's blog, where ten of his friends (including myself) share our best in-between advice. <b><a href="http://goinswriter.com/waiting-for/">{Hop Here}</a></b><br />
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Thanks for reading. Feel free to share your thoughts by leaving a comment. <b>What mundane moment in your life turned out to be a blessing?</b>Alycia Moraleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17437645525024387418noreply@blogger.com1