Books I Read in 2011

When The Nester asked "what books have you read in 2011" it took me by surprise. Not in the way of "oh my goodness, I haven't read that" but in the way of "wow, how can I remember what I've read?"

While I reflected back on what I had read or what I could remember I had read, I was also challenged. I now claim it here, this 2012 year I will keep track of all the books I read. Whether we take the time to realize it or not - what we put in to our minds is crucial to who we will become! Books change lives.

I loved the Nester's book list. I think I might have coveted it, actually! But while her list looks so fun, I was reminded that those books reflect her. As she states "you can learn a lot about a person by what books are on their bookshelf" I wondered what do my books say about me.

Books I've read the last 12 months:
Awakening (awesome read for January)
Fasting
Girls Gone Wise
Lioness Arising (a must read)
7 Practices of Effective Ministry
Weird
Sun Stand Still
The Cause Within You (totally rocked my heart)
The Church that Never Sleeps
Next Generation Leader (every leader needs to read this book)

Audiobooks:
Same Kind of Different as Me (stirred my heart beyond words)
w{hole} (if you question your story, you. need. this. book)

Reading Now:
Enemies of the Heart (can't wait to co-teach this book in January with my Pastor)
One Thousand Gifts
The Thank You Economy
Not a Fan.

Up Next:
Grace for the Good Girl
Barefoot Church
7    (I read Interrupted a few years ago, it wrecked my world. I can already sense 7 will do the same.)

If you'd like to check out more good reads, go to the Nester's. Do you keep track of what you read? I'd love to hear about it.

Best Blog Posts of 2011 {for some reason or another}

What are you doing this week before the kick-off of 2012?

For the most part I am slowing down and reflecting as I sip multiple cups of coffee. Reflecting on where I've been, what was accomplished in 2011, and how I met or didn't meet those goals I set just 365 days ago. But at the same time there's much prayer, planning, and preparing for 2012 which is JUST 4 DAYS AWAY!

I have to tell you I am waiting with much anticipation on 2012. I know God is going to move BIG! I can feel it.  I can sense it. And I hope you to do.

But before I begin the 2012 race. Here's just a few of my favorite posts of 2011. You will see each are for different reasons, but with a point. Grab a cup of coffee, hop around and enjoy!

January - Jump Out in Faith
     While this post resonated with friends out in cyberspace, I want to ALWAYS challenge myself to be brave enough to JUMP out. That's when we see the miracles and blessings.

February - It's the Last - Last Day
     This is totally for the moms out there. Our babies grow up so fast and while we run wholeheartedly in 2012 let's not forget our family. 2012 will bring more last days and first days. Enjoy them all!

March - We'll Rebuild this City with the Rock and Rolls
     A fun post of how I love being out on the streets in our city, loving on people, and rebuilding the city

April - What's Your Story
     After meeting a homeless man at church, my life was changed. My heart was opened and laid bare as I heard him say "I have a story to tell and no one to tell it to!" In 2012 I want to be more in the moment and be aware of others hearts.

May - The Gift of Encouragement
     ALWAYS encourage, encourage, encourage. May I NEVER forget.

June - Blessed from the Most Unlikely
     As my girls and I were stranded with car trouble we were blessed by a man we'll probably never see again. I think of that man often and want to live my life like that -- blessing others when least expected.

July - Are You a Cracked Pot?
     A reminder that when we grow, we will crack our outer pots. Sometimes it is painful, but so worth it.

August - He Loves Us
     Hearing my name out on the street was the best feeling ever. Realizing that after a few months of being faithful about going out and loving on people, they will remember you. God shows his love in so many unique ways.

September - What do You want to Be?
     While struggling with this question, God gave me the answer. BE HOLY. So I decided to take up some painting and create something. For starters, I didn't do so bad. Well, that's my perspective anyways.

October - 31 Days of LIving with Purpose {why am I here}
     I have to tell you October was a month of growth for me. I grew in purpose. I grew in discipline as I set out to write for 31 days straight. I grew with conviction that so many of you out there struggle with the same questions I do. You live life seeking, searching, and wondering 'why am I here'. I didn't meet the 31 day challenge as my daddy passed away on the 24th and with that I learned about grief in a whole new way. What a month of learning to persevere! You can check out the series HERE if you are wondering why are you here?

November - That Time of Year {who am I}
     After years of knowing where I'm called and feeling secure in living out my purpose that question "who am I" crept back in. While it threw me for a loop, it also captured the most readers. I continually get the most blog hits when I refer to this subject, as well as when I write about "a prayer for safety."

December - I Want to See
     December was crazy in my household. From my son getting engaged, to my daughter being in the hospital for 4 days, to having no Christmas decor up until the 22nd - everything seemed askew. Somewhere in there Christmas didn't seem like Christmas. My heart continually craved to see God's hand and boy did I. As I craved to breath and see, Christ came to give me a new PERSPECTIVE. 

What I Learned from Dirty Laundry Secrets

Can I reminisce for a moment? It was about this time last year when I was given the opportunity to teach the first study I wrote, Dirty Laundry Secrets, at Bay Area Fellowship Westside Campus the church where I attend. That was an incredible adventure for me. It was really an experience where God challenged me to trust Him.

When I was given the opportunity, I questioned, I doubted, I froze, I prayed, and I argued. It was crazy. Teaching women is tops on my list of passions, but I had never taught in a community like this. I continually was asking myself -- Would I have something to relate to them? Would they trust me? I certainly didn't want to screw it up because souls were on the line.

If it weren't for a dear friend, Marta, I'm not sure how I would have made it through. She prayed with me. She prodded me. She called me before and after class to ensure me God had my back. She attended the class. She encouraged me. She helped open my eyes to my doubt and unbelief. Thank you, friend!

Even though others said "no one would show up for class and that I was crazy for wanting to teach there", I am so thankful I obeyed God's calling. Teaching those eight weeks, I learned so much about myself, that community, and God.

I learned:

1. When God wants to move in a big way He will challenge those leading.
2. Although people come from different cultures and backgrounds, our hearts still break the same.
3. Whether we are jobless, homeless, addicted, abused, or wealthy, God's truth is the only truth that will set us free.
4. When you share your struggles, you open the door for others to do the same.
5. When you show up and follow through with God's call, you create a place where miracles can happen.
6. When you are faced with a situation and speechless, it's then that God will minister in unique ways.
7. Pain is pain, regardless of race, finances, or community.
8. You have to continually show up to earn the trust of others and have a right to speak into their lives.

I could go on and on. I seriously could list the girls individually and tell you what I learned from them. I'll forever be grateful. It is an incredible adventure when you can sit back and watch God work in mysterious ways. There are no words to describe what it's like to see changes in others lives and know maybe you were there when that seed was planted, but that that change is ALL GOD!

What God did those eight weeks:
1. Freed a woman and three children from an abusive relationship. (testimony HERE)
2. Freed another from her drug addiction.
3. Many claimed Jesus as their Savior.
4. More were baptized.
5. He changed lives.

I'm looking back, because I'm looking forward to seeing God move in our next class of Dirty Laundry Secrets beginning this Wednesday.

It's Proven I'm Not a Joke-Teller

Can you tell a joke? I can't. I can't even remember them. It's bad! Ask my family and they'll all totally agree.


A few years ago I was involved in Toastmasters. An incredible organization if you are interested in strengthening your communication and leadership skills. I had been an diligent member for years and had gained my Competent Communicator certificate and was working through specific Advanced Communication skills.


One of the manuals I had to work through was Humorously Speaking. That in itself was humorous to me. I can come across as humorous when I'm telling a story just because crazy things always seem to happen to me, but to be humorous on purpose - YIKES!!


I had worked my way through the manual and keep putting off one of the projects, which was to incorporate a joke into my speech. I balked. I squirmed.  I procrastinated. I DID NOT WANT TO DO THIS!


I'm not a joke teller. I can't remember jokes.


Well, the time came. It was the only project I had left to do. I fretted over this speech only because I had to tell this ONE joke. I memorized and memorized. I practiced and practiced and practiced. Then the day came . . .


I was so sick to my stomach when I took the platform. I was more than prepared, but it just didn't seem like me. I'M NOT A JOKE TELLER!


I was booking it through my speech and got the joke. I plowed right through it. Remember I had practiced and practiced!!! I got to the punch line and BAM the punch line was GONE!!! I wanted to crawl under the stage, find the backdoor and RUN!


Now by the grace of God, I had decided to speak on being yourself and not trying to be a copy of something or someone you are not. As I bumbled around, there was no hiding the fact that I had totally forgotten the punch line -- so I  didn't skip a beat and just said "I'm not a joke teller so therefore it would make no sense for me to try to communicate in jokes because it doesn't fit who I am -- I, Alene, forget punch lines all the time!"


It was a save, but I was still embarrassed! I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt today, I'm not a joke-teller. That's not who I am -- I'm just simple me with a little humor thrown in on the side!

How Do You Describe Success in Three Words

Recently, I was asked to describe what success means in three (yep - 3) words. Seriously - three words. I can't describe anything in three words.  So, I thought and thought and thought and thought and . . .

I knew how I would have described it years ago. Easy! It would have revolved around name brands, life's luxuries, name in lights, and money, money, money... But trying to come up with what success means to me today was hard to put in words.

I've realized that success isn't necessarily defined as most Americans would describe it. Polls today show that teens see success as being rich and famous. And maybe that is. But success is more than the big things we conquer. I also see the stepping stones we must conquer everyday as success.

So, I thought and thought and thought and thought some more ...

I noticed that I want to be successful as a writer, speaker, teacher, encourager, photographer, and of course not to mention wife and mother because those are things I'm passionate about. But if I never published another book would I deem myself a failure? No. If I never got to speak again would I think myself a failure? No. I was beginning to think I'd never come up with three words that describe success for me.

Finally the words living life passionately came to my mind. I pondered over them. I liked the sound of those three words. I know that if I'm not 110% sold out to what I'm doing I'm miserable. And I see true success as something that oozes true joy and peace. So I wrote them down and hit the send button. But seriously, I felt kind of dorky turning in those three words as my definition of success.

Later that evening I was recapping my day. It had been amazing! I got to serve alongside a homeless man at church. God had placed me at the right place at the right time to minister to a woman who was leaving an abusive relationship. I felt fully awake and alive! Was this success? I still found myself pondering over those three words I had turned in. Living life passionately. 

Then I received a text from a friend who said "How about lunch this week?" My heart screamed YEAH!!! This was a friend who I had met over a year ago. Back then she rarely smiled or looked you in the eyes. I had seen such tremendous growth in her and was so thankful that we had exchanged numbers a few weeks before when she shared that she didn't have any good influences in her life. We set our lunch plans in motion and I was thrilled.

As I crawled into bed that night I was on cloud nine. I lay there thinking, "Yes -- this is success, living life passionately! Serving beside the homeless, encouraging the abused, and being there for a new friend who is ready to move beyond her present circumstances!" Somebody pinch me!!!

Now I'll challenge you, how would you describe success in three words?

For me it's -- living life passionately!

Down the Street Under a Mesquite Tree

I am always amazed when God comes through in the most unlikely of ways and speaks a word to my heart. OK - really, it is more like God thumps  me on the heart and says, "Do you get this, Alene?"

This past weekend I was having the most intriguing conversation with a man who had come to church and then afterwards shared with me a hand-written poem he had penned. The poem was unbelievable - totally God-inspired it seemed. After he bared his soul in this poem we began chatting about life in general.

I quickly learned he had only been in Corpus a few months. He had moved from Houston where he had lived and ministered on the streets. The God stories he told me were incredible. (Yes, I asked if he'd write those down too!) As he shared his life, I was so captivated by the peace he had.

I found myself asking, "Where are you living now?"

"Down the street under a mesquite tree," he answered.

Inwardly I gasped, I hope he didn't hear it. I wanted to shout "No, you need a place to stay. Let me find you a place. Do you have food? Do you need anything? You are too special to be living out on the street!"

The peace that exuded this man was beyond words. How could he be so at peace when he was out on the streets? Didn't he want a home? a job? a family? a hot shower? some nice clothes? transportation?

My mind and heart was racing with questions as our conversation ended.

Last night I returned to church for our weekly prayer night. During our hour together we had a time of quiet worship and prayer. The peace that fell on that building during that moment was, once again, unexplainable. My mind was quickly drawn back to my friend who lives down the street under a mesquite tree.

I wondered as I sat there in this unexplainable peace if this was the peace that this man experienced on the street. No phones, crazy and chaotic schedules or fancy gadgets to rule his life -- just peace and quiet time alone with God.

I am so thankful that I was reminded of this peace that passes all understanding. This peace you and I crave won't be found as we swiftly run through life from one chaotic moment to another. It will instead be found in the stillness and quiet of our hearts as we sit alone with God.

Thank you to my friend who lives down the street and under a mesquite tree!

Rhythms of Life

Just when you think you have the rhythm of your days all figured out and can make the most of your time - things change! Such are the rhythms -- the pulse, beat and measure of life.

Graduation has come and gone. It was a fast paced season filled with many beautiful moments, but now summer is here. Yeah . . .  my favorite! Summer . . . where schedules are more relaxed. There's no more hectic mornings getting kids out the door and to school on time. Instead, it's long days full of sunshine.

From as far back as I can remember, summer has always been a breath of fresh air for me. I love the sun, fun, pool, and beach. Just put me in the sun with a cool iced drink and a great book . . . and I'm good to go for hours. So the rhythms of summer have always been a struggle for me. Keeping a schedule and accomplishing tasks are not what my mind and body want to do . . . they want the sun and fun!

So eventually, I'll end up frustrated trying to juggle writing, editing, photographing, teaching, plus all the responsibilities of home. It happens every summer, but one thing I can always count on, however, as my schedule gets out of hand is that come the end of July (we are in year-round school) things will get back to a routine - a rhythm.

Coming off this holiday weekend, spending time at the beach with friends, and not having a school schedule to jump start my routine, I already find myself fighting the rhythm of this season. As I got up to have my morning coffee and looked around to find my schedule (which I couldn't find, 'cuz oh yeah -- I didn't make one for this week!), a reassuring thought came over me, "OK, just fight through this for a couple of months then we'll fall right back into rhythm, Alene."

That comforting thought soon turned to full panic . . . as I thought I realized there are no more crazy high-school schedules in this house to help put me back on track. I can't count on the kids school schedules to force me to get focused. This peaceful, easy rhythm will not be interrupted by another's schedule this season. This rhythm will only change course by the conductor of this song. Hmmmmm, I'm realizing I'm the conductor of the rhythm of this season of my life. Oh my goodness . . .

Now that I've been jarred wide-awake, I think I'll go seek the Conductor of all creation for the perfect rhythm for this season and time of my life.

Any suggestions?

Remodeling - A Never Ending but Freeing Process

We are knee deep in remodeling AGAIN! I'm beginning to wonder if this process will ever end. We've torn apart our master bedroom and everything is out in the garage. I have to admit - going out to the garage to find what I am going to wear is totally not my style and way of doing things.

However, I've noticed a few things while everything is disarray in the garage.

1. There is so much that needs to GO. If we haven't worn it or used in months it's time to let someboby else enjoy it.

2. Many things need our attention -- to be cleaned, dusted, mended, or shined.

3. Amid all the clutter, it really is hard to see the special things we have.

4. And our bedroom - while empty - seems simply peaceful, and free.

Relating this to my spiritual life - I see the same benefits to cleaning "house" -- my inward self "God's house."

It is gut-wrenching to take time out of our busy lives and haul everything out of our inward self to take a good look at it, but once we do we realize there are things that need to go and things that need attention. While all those things clutter our hearts, it is hard to count our blessings. But yet, once we take the time to clear our spiritual house we soon feel God's peace and freedom!

Is it time for you to do some remodeling? If so, come join me on this freeing journey.

Lessons from 4-H; Feed the Sheep

I grew up loving animals and wanting to be a veterinarian. When I was finally old enough to be in 4-H my dad and I went to a meeting. As we were walking out the door of the house that evening, my mom was saying, "Do not sign up for anything!"

Well, somewhere in those next few hours I'm not sure what happened. I not only joined 4-H, but Dad had signed me up to show a lamb in the upcoming January show. This began a whole new life for me. There was much I had to learn about being responsible for large animals, as well as raising, feeding, and showing this lamb, Suzy Q. Cute name, right?

I hate to admit it, but Suzy Q soon became a chore. Feed. Water. Exercise. Feed. Water. Feed. Feed. Feed.

On those freezing cold mornings when it was drizzling rain I seriously could have cared-less if this cute lamb got exercise, much less food. Confession time, there were even some mornings when I just didn't feed her. My bad! Please don't report me, because I did feel guilty all day at school afterwards.

Although I loved Suzy Q there were days I could have done without her and all the responsibility that came along with her. I seriously would have been fine, going back to my way of life before I joined 4-H. But somewhere deep down, I had such a passion for animals that I knew I had to learn what it took to raise champions. And that I did for the next 10 years, even progressed to showing champion steers and bulls.

Recently, my mind has been wandering back to those animals that I loved and despised all at the same time. I'm continually reminded of what a chore it was to feed, water, exercise, and feed, feed, feed them when all I wanted to do was live a "normal" life like most of my friends.

I'm learning new lessons on "feeding sheep", as John 21 has been very much at the forefront of my thoughts lately. When Jesus asks Peter three separate times, "Do you love me?" He also responds to Peter's "yes", by saying "Feed my lambs. Take care of my sheep. Feed my sheep."

For more on what I'm learning, sign up for my newsletter before next Monday. (It's the brown box on the right hand side of this blog.) The rest of the story will come out in next week's monthly newsletter.

Until then,  does anyone have any stories they'd like to share on the lessons they learned from 4-H?

Don't Miss the Miracles

Every time I read John 5 and the miraculous story that took place at the pool of Bethesda, I gain some interesting insight. I remember one of the first times I read the story and Jesus' words "Do you want to get well?" totally took me off guard. WOW - "what a crazy question to ask", I thought at the time. Read HERE for how it spoke to me in November of 2007.

But as I was reading this morning lost in the story once again, something else struck me. You can read the story beginning in John 5. After this miracle takes place, you read the Jewish leaders find out about the healing and were not happy. How could they not be happy? This wasn't just any ordinary healing. This man had been disabled, homeless and sitting by the pool for 38 years. But yet . . . these leaders were so stuck on "their" agenda that they totally missed what Jesus had just done! They didn't even see or recognize this amazing miracle. It's as if their eyes were totally shut to seeing the incredible healing that had just taken place.

My heart paused for a moment when I read that. I'm not a Jewish leader. I'm not bent on the "rules" of the Sabbath. I don't seek out people and scold them for the way the come to know Jesus.

BUT, what God spoke to me was that I too have my own issues. I can get so wrapped up in my agenda that I take my eyes of Him. I run so fast some days from one thing to the next that I don't stop to see God working around me. I set out towards fulfilling a vision God has placed within me and lose sight of what Jesus is doing right here, right now around me. I miss seeing the miracles He is performing in my own life, and those around me.

So I'm hear to say that today I'm going to run through life with my eyes wide-opened looking for every amazing miracle I can find!

I don't want to miss the miracles!

All l Want . . .

It's that time of year again when the all too familiar words "All I Want" are heard from young and old alike.

Mommy, all I want for Christmas is . . .
Hubby, all I want is . . .
Santa, all I want . . .

I'm not sure how you are filling in the blank this year, but I have a new perspective for the words "all I want."

A few weeks back the weather here was quite drizzly, cold, and windy. As I was leaving the church building one afternoon, a homeless man who had been visiting us came in out of the cold and we began to visit. In the course of our conversation he said, "All I want . . ."

I'm not sure how you think he might have finished that sentence, but my heart was taken back by his words. "All I want is a tarp to cover what little stuff I have that is now getting ruined by this rain."

Oh friends, while we are thinking of all the things we want to fix up and fill our homes this holiday season, just remember there are some out there just wishing for a tarp so they will have a dry place to lay their head and protect their "stuff".

I am seeing more clearly everyday just how blessed I am and I hope you realize just how blessed you are too. Even in the midst of our struggles and hardships, certainly we can see blessings in our midst.

Lord, amazingly I am so blessed. Help me to bless others.

Running Through Life

I seem to amuse my family quite often. At least I know, as a mom, I bring a little laughter to their days. This past weekend we had the joy of attending our youngest daughter's High School pep rally as part of the  Homecoming festivities. She was part of the Homecoming court, so the whole family was there to capture the moment.

After a day of running errands and meeting with people I made it to the school just in time.  And if you know me I was seriously going to capture this moment with my camera and the biggest lens I had.

Bare with me. Amazingly, there is a point to this story! haha

The family had already entered the gym and I stayed behind to "get that cool shot". I finally headed into the gym and found them. They had decided to sit about halfway up the bleachers, so I headed up to grab my seat.

About three steps up my high heel (maybe not appropriate but I had been running all day, remember?) got caught in a very small crack in the step and . . . you guessed it! A crazy Alene moment happened. I toppled over and of course, the family saw my graceful moves. They were howling when I finally got to my seat -- I was just fretting and hoping my gracefulness didn't ruin my camera.

So the point to this story is . . . as you're running through life, watch your every step closely. Pay attention to even those smallest cracks that slip up on you as you journey through life, because in the end and in the blink of an eye it doesn't take much to topple you over.

Adventure - Here We Come

Are you an adventurous person? I like to think that I am, but I have to admit sometimes I struggle with stepping out of my comfort zone.

I was married at the age of 20. Crazy! Married a pilot in the Army. Lucky me! Our first duty assignment weeks after we married was to Frankfurt, Germany. What were my parents thinking?!!

I was full of adventure. This was going to be great. New hubby. New home. New country. Ad. Ven. Ture!!!

Well, loooooong story very short -- after three weeks in Germany when I could't speak the language, couldn't drive a car, didn't know my way around, and was going absolutely crazy I decided to set out. Adventure here we come. I found my way to the tram. But I had no idea where to go, nor how to find my way back. But I was determined!

What I did realize as I set out was a huge tower that bellowed above the city of Frankfurt. That tower could be seen from most everywhere. I knew if I would keep my eyes on the tower and not loose sight then I'd know where I was and how to find my way back to our home.

This is just what God requires as you step out with Him in faith. He beckons you to listen to His call and be daring enough to take the first step. Yes, it will be out of your comfort zone. But as long as you keep your eyes fixed on the Strong Tower, God, you'll be good to go. You'll navigate yourself well with your eyes fixed on Him because an incredible adventure awaits.

And friend, it's worth the risk. Frankfurt was gorgeous when I got beyond my neighborhood. God has a whole world out there waiting for you. He wants to shine his light through you to every neighborhood and country.

Take the risk and step out as you say, "Adventure - Here we come!"

How Can This Happen?

Questions. Questions. Questions. 


I remember when my kids were younger and it seemed they had one million and thirty-seven questions every day. I would get so exasperated. But now the tables are turned where I always seem to have questions, but for God. I so hope He is not exasperated with me!!!

I am finding comfort along my journey in the New Testament using my Chronological Bible. I am seeing that I'm not the only one with questions. The New Testament characters were filled with questions too.

One of the first questions that stands out at me was asked by Mary, Jesus' mother. If you recall an angel appeared to her, "Greetings, favored woman. The Lord is with you." (story found in Luke 1:26-38)


Mary was confused and disturbed. (Maybe I'm a little nuts, but I find comfort in that.)


The angel goes on to say, "You have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus."


Mary replies, "How can this happen? I am a virgin." (There's that question.)


If we were to bring this scenario into an every day event in our own lives, I think many of us could and can relate.


First, as we go about our every day routines we sense God speaking into our heart. We feel Him calling us beyond where we've been before. Somewhere down deep in our heart, we know that He deems us highly favored for this task. But yet . . . 


We are confused and disturbed by it all. 

What we sense God speaking into us doesn't make sense and we have no earthly idea how to carry out this task or vision for Him. So we find ourselves asking . . .


How can this happen? 


We might not be saying "How can this happen, because I am a virgin", but we have our own questions and excuses we speak out to God.

How can this happen . . . I'm not worthy.
How can this happen . . . I'm not educated for that task.
How can this happen . . . I have a tainted past.
How can this happen . . . I am so inadequate.

As Mary asked her question, the angel actually gave her a brief answer of how it would happen. OK - I don't get answers most of the time. Do you? But the angel goes on to assure Mary that "nothing is impossible with God." (Luke 1:37)


As I step out daily in my journey I pray that I can have the bold, blind faith that Mary did -- even though I have questions -- I hope to respond just as she did, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything that is said come true."

How can this happen -- because the Lord has spoke it into existence and nothing, NO THING, is impossible with God.


It is totally amazing how God continually uses us despite our own questions of . . . 


How can this happen?

Do You Long to Know Your Purpose?

Do you find yourself continually asking, "What is my purpose? Am I leaving a footprint here on this earth?"

If so, then you do not want to miss this study that I'll be beginning online October 7th. I will help you realize that it is in your every day life that those footprints for eternity are left. Yes, we all know the enemy comes to snatch those precious moments away, but I will give you the tools to realize every moment counts and leaves a footprint in time.


Not only that, but I will help you see your individual strengths, gifts, and talents through special assessments. You will enjoy this journey to knowing yourself and your purpose. So come along!

Seriously, over the years of teaching I have realized that the answer to "What is my purpose?" is a plaguing question for so many. Join this study to hear the simple, but profound answer. You need this information, because the truth is . . .

You have a unique purpose . . . whether you want one or not! Amazing.

For more information and to register visit HERE. Invite your friends and let's have some fun beginning October 7th.

Out of the Mouths of Babes!

We’ve all heard those precious little sayings that preschoolers throw out and instantly they warm your heart. But today a precious little six year old I get to see every Sunday threw out a question that took my heart by surprise.

I was close to the front door when this precious little one walked in. She is a cutie that always makes a special effort to give me a big hug and smile every Sunday. We began a conversation about her beginning first grade the next day. Needless to say, she was so excited!

Just a side note -- I love my church. We are in the heart of the city in a community where many need help. At our campus we have a clothes closet where those in need can come and get what they need for free.

As precious little one and I continued in conversation about all the preparations she was making to be ready for school, she all the sudden asks excitedly “Are you going to the Closet today?”

My heart stood still as I replied, “No, I’m not going today but I hope you are.”

She was excited as her family had planned on visiting the Closet to help get them ready for last minute school items. I was so excited for this precious little one. I couldn’t help it as I took in her big life-giving smile.

However, her words “Are you going to the Closet today?” are still ringing in my heart and ears.

What tugs at my heart is that what I deem as something we do and provide this little one looked at as such a special treat. I'm beginning to realize just how special this place is. Our Closet is a very special place for our special guests there in the community.

The other thing that blessed my heart from her comments was that she didn’t see any difference between herself and me. That thought makes my heart sing.

I'm amazed tonight! Out of the mouths of babes and straight to the heart of an ordinary girl who is learning so much from this awesome community of sojourners.

Positive to Negative Ratios

When my children were preschool and elementary age, I read somewhere that it takes 5 positive comments to override just 1 (ONE) negative comment. That's 5 to 1, friend!

When you think about that, it kind of seems unreal. But being the good mom that I am (hear the sarcasm there!), I didn't want to take the chance that my young kiddo's would be left with negative thoughts at the end of the day.

So as sibling squabbles would break out and negative comments would fly from one to another I decided to put an action plan in place. I sat the cute-little-things down and explained positive and negative comments. I'm not sure how much of that registered, but . . .

I do know I got their attention when I told them that from here on out for every negative thing they said to each other they would have to replace that comment with two positive ones. They hemmed and hawed and weren't too crazy about this positivity thing mom was in to . . .

The next day rolled around and they were doing pretty good. Then sure enough an afternoon sqwabble broke out! Urgh . . . here we go again.  Words like stupid, dumb, and ugly were flying. I called them in and sat them down. Once again explaining negative comments and how they hurt whether they were true or not.

Next came the most painful thing I could have done to them. I had two of them stand face to face, look each other in the eyes and told them they had to say two positive things about their sibling.

Let's just say TORTURE! 

Oh my word -- we sat there FOREVER. They squirmed. They balked. They looked down. Then finally one of them squeaked out, "I like your tinny shoes?!" I think the rest of the comments that day were just as superficial. But HEY - we were creating new habits and you have to start somewhere, however clumsily it may be.

I'm remembering this story today, because I experienced the 5-to-1 ratio yesterday. There are some negative things that people have spoke in my life over the years. The funny thing is that some of those things were spoken when I was younger, yet they still ring ever-so-loudly in my ears. I didn't even realize how loud they were, until a friend began speaking positive words to me yesterday.

I literally felt the wall begin to crack and break. Those negative comments aren't truth most of the time, yet we build upon them, and repeat them in our minds over and over, until we have this huge wall built up inside of us. What a moment to feel that wall begin to shake yesterday.

I want to encourage you today to let those negative comments spoken into your being GO! They aren't truth. You might not have a friend close by today to encourage you, but you do have the best friend ever who is eager to impart TRUTH into your being. That friend has left you a love letter full of TRUTH and positive comments.

Pick up the book of TRUTH, God's word, today and begin replacing those negative comments with truth. You will feel the walls shake, crack, and begin to fall.

Just like in my children's lives -- why is it so much easier to speak and impart the negative into others and even ourselves? That habit has to be broken. It doesn't do anyone or ourselves any good!

Today, I am amazed at how a friend's simple and positive comments changed me.

Chain Link Fences

If you have just happened upon this page, please read the first part of this story HERE.

As those words No Trespassing continued to flood my mind, I realized that there were areas of my life that I didn’t want God trespassing through. I wanted to be in control. Yes, He could stand at the chain link fence and talk to me, but how dare He ask me to cut the chains away and fully let him in to reign.

I had just read yesterday morning, “Blessed are those who put their trust in Him.” (Psalm 2:12) I left my quiet time with the Lord thinking I was trusting in Him. WOO HOO Yeah me -- see me patting myself on the back! But after a day of examination I realized I really wasn’t. I was trusting in myself. Lord, forgive me! I was ruling my life. I was the keeper of the chain link fence and the padlock. I was secure in myself.

That kind of thinking doesn’t glorify God. At all! Because the things we can do ourselves aren’t really anything special. Oh we can fool ourselves in thinking they are – we look confident, we look put together, we feel secure.

But . . . the truth is that there is nothing miraculous in the things we can explain!

The scripture didn’t say “Blessed are those who put part of their trust in Him.” Trusting God means trusting Him with everything even those things on the other side of our chain link fences that we don’t want anyone to get to.

What could be on the other side of your chain link fence? Do any of these sound familiar?

Lord, I’m going to trust you with my finances, but don’t ask me to give anything more.

Lord, I give you my heart, but don’t ask me to forgive those who have hurt or abused me.

Lord, I’m going to trust you to make my marriage better, but don’t ask me to change.

Lord, here’s my career and I trust you with it, just don’t ask me to become more responsible.

Lord, I give you my life but let’s not get too personal where you come meddling in my fears, doubts, anger, shame, depression, or addictions.

Lord, I really do want more of you but if you could just love and guide me from behind the chain link fence I’d feel a little more comfortable.

The problem with our chain link fence is that the fence holds back the power of God. He can’t win the battle for you when He is caged behind a fence. And you will not see God as your Overcomer until you let him on the other side of that fence!

God wants so bad to take the dead and smelly things that lie behind our fences and make them new. He wants to prove to us that He can do immeasurably more than what we ask or imagine and that He is able, but first we have to tear down the fence and let Him in – all the way in!

Don’t waiver in your believing and trusting. God will heal and restore your pride, anger, rage, bitterness, addictions, doubt, hurts, shame, and brokenness. Let Him in so you can see that He is able to do what He has promised He’d do. “God will bring the dead back to life and create a new thing out of nothing.” Romans 4:17

Tear down your chain link fence, let God trespass all through you, and watch the unexplained miracles abound.

You’ll be amazed!

Amazed & Giveaway

I am continually amazed at how God works. He always knows who to bring together and at just the right time.

We finished our 6 week study of "I'm a Fixer-Upper" last night at my home church BAF, where I serve as the See Jane Grow coordinator. We had an awesome time studying together and learning about God and ourselves.

Last night was a treat for me. The gals wrapped up our class by telling how God had been moving in their lives and how the study has touched their lives. Amazing!

Here's a little snippet of what they said:

I am learning to refocus my thoughts on God each day!

I felt insecure about my physical appearance and I thought plastic surgery could make me “happy”. I’ve realized now that I already have a lot to be “happy” about. And who knows if having that surgery would make me “happy”.

I learned the Christ lives in me – really lives in me!

I’ve been reminded to SIT – to sit and receive His word and food for my body each day.

I have realized I CAN change with God in control, but change is not easy.

This study has brought me closer to God. We now have a personal relationship.

To release myself from the bitterness and anger I just need to take baby steps with God and not give up!

This study has given me a feeling and the knowledge that I am so special, which has given me a feeling of self-worth.

I’ve learned to journal. It’s still very awkward, but I’m pursuing and trying. This has kept me more diligent in my quiet times with Jesus most every day.

I’m God’s special creation and worthy of His love. He loves me and can use the brokenness of my life.

With control I can think good, positive thoughts about myself just as easy as I can think negative thoughts!

It is never too late to accept Christ and change. Don’t give up!

How about you?

Have you been wanting to join a study but there just hasn't been time? Are you wanting connections with other women?

If you are thinking "yes!", how about if I told you there's a way you can have both? And not only that, but you can have it from the comfort of your own home, in comfy clothes, and with a warm cup of coffee. No need for make-up or a fresh hair-do!

Yes, that's possible, if you join Alene Snodgrass in her first online Bible study beginning Tuesday, March 2nd, 8-9pm CST.


The study is free and easy to join.


1. To register email Alene at alene@alenesnodgrass.com and put Online Registration in the subject line. You will receive your link to the private online study room in a few days.

2. To learn more about the study go to this web site.

3. To get the most out of this study you will need Alene's new book, "I'm a Fixer-Upper", which you can purchase HERE.

Leave a comment and win a signed copy of the book! The winner will be randomly chosen Sunday Feb 28!

Love Story

Trying to meet some writing deadlines today, I found myself staring at a blank piece of paper with nothing to write, so I posted on Facebook “Where do I begin?”

As I sat there a little longer the melody to the theme from Love Story began to form in my mind. The next thing I knew I was singing it, but I had forgotten all the words. “Where do I begin? blah, blah, blah . . . great a love can be . . . doo doo doo deeee!”

Hallelujah for google! Looking it up - this is how really goes --

Where do I begin?

To tell the story of how great a love can be

The sweet love story that is older than the sea

The simple truth about the love he brings to me

Where do I start?

How do you begin to explain the greatest love story? Whether it is the love story of Christ (the best Valentine gift ever) or your hubby it is hard to explain. Especially because that line - “Where do I start?” doesn’t even rhyme with the rest of those lyrics and that totally throws me off.

However, as Valentine’s approaches everyone is singing love. But maybe, just maybe -- some of you out there are blinded - like I once was - by what real love is. I use to think it was fairytale like with a happily ever after ending every day!

Well, watch below. I soon realized or should have realized otherwise. This is where my love story started amazingly some 27 years ago.

Leave a comment and let me know how your love story began.