...A Glimpse of Falguni

2011-11-08T21:11:00.000-06:00

Demi Lovato - Skyscraper

2011-09-19T20:20:00.000-05:00

Loving this new song. Just downloaded it from Amazon! Demi Lovato has such a great voice!

I Need A Guinea Pig...

2011-09-01T19:38:00.003-05:00

I LOVE cooking and cookbooks and these are my 2 new ones I got today. I am so EXCITED to try them. Wanna come be my guinea pig as I try these out?

What great things God has done...for you?

2011-08-28T17:34:00.005-05:00

"O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord"
-I Cor 15:55-58

The past two weeks at Fellowship Bible Church have been amazing. Hearing testimonies about the great things that God has done in people's lives left me with increased faith! I am so grateful and thankful that I have a relationship with Jesus Christ. Each and everyday I am thankful for the life that God breathes in me. He is my Rock and my firm foundation that cannot be destroyed. Nothing or no one can stop him for carrying out his perfect plan for me. I have been through several peaks and valleys in my journey and each time I have came out stronger. There are things out of my control and situations that I am going through right now that I am struggling with, but he tells me to trust him and to give him full control b/c he is SOVEREIGN. I am also thankful for the grace he has had on me and for the freedom I have in Him. If I didn't make the decision to follow him 14 years ago, I would be so lost without Christ! I am so thankful for the many believers that God has put in my life that are walking out his purpose. I am so blessed and no love, no money, no materialistic objects can compare to the sweet love that I have for Jesus. I pray that God will bless me with a man to love and children/orphans that I can bless, in due time...

What great things God has done...for you?

Beautiful Things - Gungor

2011-08-09T21:39:00.000-05:00

This is one of my favorite songs and wanted to share it with you all! Enjoy!

Quote Of The Day

2011-07-17T20:37:00.000-05:00

“I tend to live the way I drive. I want to get from point A to point B in the shortest amount of time and by the easiest route possible. But I’ve come to realize that getting where God wants me to go isn’t nearly as important as becoming who God wants me to be in the process. And God seems to be far less concerned with where I’m going than with who I’m becoming."

Mark Batterson

Birthday Wishes-Part II

2011-07-10T17:35:00.009-05:00

My second video wouldn't upload, so here are some pics...

Birthday Wishes-Part I

2011-07-10T15:50:00.005-05:00

Gourmet Goodness

2011-07-05T21:48:00.003-05:00

I am hooked on these gourmet chocolate bars. They are homemade in Nashville. You can find all the different flavors here. They are a little pricey, but worth every little penny. They also sell them at Whole Foods!

Greatest Band Alive

2011-07-02T23:22:00.000-05:00

Today I got to see one of the greatest bands alive! This was one of the best days of my life! They were absolutely AMAZING!!! I would pay to go see them again. My favorite part was when Bono sang 'Amazing Grace' acopella and then the crowd joined in. Read Rolling Stones story about the blind man, it was wonderful to see Bono give him his custom acoustic guitar...Lucky!

My. Birthday. Wish.

2011-06-25T09:50:00.004-05:00

So, I am coming upon my 35th Birthday and all I wish for is...

A wonderful man to come into my life. A man who knows how to communicate and respects me. A man with integrity that loves JESUS! A man who isn't afraid of taking a risk with falling in love with me. A man who wants to show-me off to the world. A man who loves children and has a heart for orphans. A man who can be a leader. A man who wants to get to know me and my heart. A man who pursues me. C.S. Lewis sums it all up in my favorite quote:

"A woman's heart should be so close to God that a man should have to chase Him to find her."

...and of course raspberry creme cupcakes :)

2011-06-22T18:38:00.003-05:00

Here is a pic from the photoshoot...more to come!

2011-06-12T20:59:00.001-05:00

"Every opportunity has a shelf life" - Burlesque

Compliments Boost Self Esteem

2011-06-08T19:34:00.004-05:00

Positive Words = Positive Self-Image

This past weekend a friend of mine, Amber Beckham, asked me to be a part of her photo shoot at the Mini Fair in Cool Springs. (Pics to come soon, the pictures above are from a previous shoot). I love being photographed and always said that if I was tall, I would want to model for a living. We had a blast and it was fun being a model for the day and getting all the attention…I’m just saying ;)

Later that evening, Amber and I went to eat dinner at Chuys all dressed up in our cute, sexy dresses. While I was in the restroom, this man in his mid-40s is waiting at our table b/c he recognized us from the fair. When I get to the table, he approaches me and says the sweetest things that put me on a high for the rest of the weekend. He told me that I was breath-taking, absolutely beautiful, gorgeous, pretty, and a true model. That made my day, especially after I just got done telling Amber that my dream job would be to be a model.

I have to say that when people give you positive compliments, it boosts your self-confidence. In this world, we compare ourselves to people in magazines and on television and those are NOT always real, healthy images. Society tells us that we have to be tall, stick thin, and beautiful. God made us the way we are and we have to accept that. I have struggled for many years with my height, but have slowly accepted that I am perfect in God’s eyes. Read Psalms 139. God does also call us to honor our bodies, so we have to do our part in being healthy.

Give someone a compliment today and see what it does to their attitude…you will be amazed!

Jamie Grace - Hold Me (Live & Acoustic at Emack Studio)

2011-06-05T11:39:00.000-05:00

I love this song!

Peony

2011-05-17T10:01:00.006-05:00

Peonies are my favorite flower along with Ranunculus. They are so delicate and the sweet aroma is so fragrant! I bought myself some peonies this weekend and here are some pics I took of them :)

Weekend Breakfast

2011-05-08T14:29:00.005-05:00

Many of you know that I enjoy and love cooking. This weekend I made a German Dutch Baby from scratch with fresh berries and lemon juice. It was heavenly :)

Inhale

2011-05-05T21:55:00.003-05:00

I love the smell of spring...

(Picture taken by my amazing photographer friend, Amber Beckham, with my really old Polaroid camera. Check out her site and she has a few other pics of me that she took.)

INDIA

2011-04-16T15:41:00.008-05:00

These are two colorful pictures I captured of some apartments people live in India. It makes me sad that this country is so poor, but the people there know how to make the most of having very little b/c they don't know what it is like to have more.

2011-04-10T19:37:00.004-05:00

Do you ever wonder why God puts certain people in our lives? Sometimes it is to teach us valuable life lessons to help us grow in our character to become the man or woman we are in Christ. Sometimes people are in our lives to encourage us when we are going through tough times. They are there for us to lean on, to give us a shoulder to cry on, or to simply hug their neck. Sometimes they are in your life for a long time and sometimes they are not. Regardless, of how long, did you make a positive impact on their life? Sometimes they are the love your life. Someone you want to spend eternity with. Sometimes they are there to be the family you never had, the mother or father you never had. Just think, I am in your life for a reason and you are in mine! So the next time you are with someone, make the most of your time with them! Life is so precious and we have to make every second count!

Close To My Heart

2011-01-31T20:51:00.004-06:00

I recently went to India and fell in love with the servant's daughters....they melt my heart! I absolutely adore them. I pray that God will bless them and their families beyond their imagination!

This Is The Day

2010-11-29T21:16:00.002-06:00

One of my favorite moments in Africa....

I Love Orphans

2010-11-21T15:43:00.011-06:00

"Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world" James 1:27

I have a huge heart for orphans. Did you know that there are an estimated 143 million orphans in the world and every 2 seconds another child becomes an orphan? Every 90 seconds another orphan dies of malnutrition. To see a child go hungry, lonely, and scared breaks my heart. I can't even phantom what goes on in their little minds when they go to sleep every night not having anyone to hold them.

Often times we take for granted the family we have; people who love us and are there for us. These children never get to experience that kind of love. When I went to Africa 2 years ago, my heart was shattered into a million pieces. Visiting orphanages after orphanages never left a dry eye. I wish I could have brought them all back here with me and surrounded them with so much love.

The clean water and food that is readily available to us is often times taken for granted. Growing up I don't ever recall missing a meal, even though my family didn't have much money. These poor children are starving and malnourished. Their frail little bodies and the sadness behind those eyes breaks my heart. All I want to do is hold and love these little children as I would love my own one day. I pray that if it's God's will that he will provide a way for me financially to adopt some of these precious children. I would love to adopt one from Africa and one from India.

My Favorite Places To Eat In Nashville

2010-11-13T16:28:00.004-06:00

1. Sitar Indian Cuisine
2. Burger Up
3. Minami Japanese Steakhouse
4. Sole Mio
5. Casa Fiesta
6. Monell's
7. Fido
8. Baja Burrito & Chipotle
9. The Perch
10. Mellow Mushroom
11. Rose Pepper
12. Maggianos

Check'um out...

My Secret to Looking Young

2010-11-08T20:02:00.003-06:00

People always guess that I am about 10-12 years younger than I am. I am sure part of it b/c of my ethnicity and my petiteness. Here it goes...

1. Eat lots of fresh fruit & veggies full of antioxidants. I have been a vegetarian my whole life.
2. Stay away from frozen and processed foods.
3. Drink lots of water every day and an antioxident tea once a day.
4. Don't wear make-up during the week.
5. Wear under eye wrinkle-cream every day. My favorite that works is Arbonne Nutrimine-C.
6. Exercise 3-4 times a week.
7. Wear sunscreen and say NO to tanning beds.
8. Take your vitamins daily.
9. Get plenty of sleep. I shoot for 8hrs a day.
10. I have great genes...thanks to my mom and dad.

There you have it! Enjoy!

My New Boots

2010-11-02T20:43:00.003-05:00

I just bought these fun boots and you should too...my friend liked mine so much, that she went out and got the same ones. You can get them here.

25 Things You Don't Know About Me

2010-10-11T20:24:00.005-05:00

I am bilingual, English and Gujarati
I have never had braces
I am a great cook, my specialty is Indian
I am always on time
I prefer cookies over cake any day
I am an artist...love to paint with acrylics
I won 1st place in my college talent show and the best part was that I made up the dance routine the night before
I was in one music video, a hair commercial, and the lead in an Indy flick
My family nicknamed me Nimu and my grandparents wanted to name me Amisha
I swallowed a ring when I was two and my uncle saved my life
I have naturally curly hair
I wish I was a model
My dream car is the Mercedes G Wagon
I want to be a fashion designer one day and my line would be called "Falguni Bhikhu"
I like anything yellow
I hate salads, but I eat them b/c they are good for me
I love double rainbows and shooting stars
I own over 40 scarves
I am really good with my money
I naturally have a six-pack...okay maybe a four-pack
I was almost salutatorian in high school, but I accidentally skipped a page on my English exam that caused me to get a 3.98 GPA
I want to adopt from India and Ethiopia
I love the sound of rain
I have never weighed over 90lbs
I hate country music

I Love Handbags

2010-10-11T17:39:00.003-05:00

Here is a designer that I have fallen in love with. You can see some of his other awesome designs here. You know, Christmas is around the corner..... :)

I Need This For My Dollas

2010-08-04T20:14:00.005-05:00

This wallet/card case by BillyKirk is pretty rad. You have to check out the details of it on their website. It's handmade and just gorgeous!

Sucker For Bracelets

2010-07-09T14:05:00.004-05:00

Yes, I am a sucker for cool, unique bracelets. The top one is just awesome, go ahead and click here to buy me one! The bottom one is awesome for a rockstar and can be purchased here!

Infinite LOVE

2010-06-27T21:04:00.003-05:00

This is what I want for my birthday this year...coming up on July 11th! Go ahead and click here to buy it for me :)

Aviana-My New Niece

2010-05-24T21:40:00.004-05:00

Tutu For My Niece

2010-05-18T18:28:00.003-05:00

Here is one of the 1st pieces of clothing I made my newborn niece!

Brazilian Blow Dry

2010-05-16T14:27:00.004-05:00

Nicole Richie, whom I adore and love so much gets this treatment done in her hair called the Brazilian Blowout. I am dying to get it done, but it's just way to expensive. You can check out the video here on how it is done.

And, I want Nicole's new haircut and color...

My God Speaks

2010-03-22T19:51:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone! I just wanted to let you all know about my new blog "My God Speaks". I hope this blog will speak to you like God speaks to me.

My Christmas Gift

2009-12-20T21:31:00.004-06:00

Okay, so you have heard me over and over go on about Nicole Richie. She is still the most fashionable girl to me and I LOVE LOVE LOVE her style. Yes, when I go shopping, I always ask myself, "would Nicole where that?" Needless to say, I admire her A LOT! This is what I am getting for Christmas, from Nicole's House of Harlow 1960 line. I will be sure to take a picture of it on when I get it.

God In A Box

2009-12-20T21:27:00.002-06:00

This is such a wonderful post by my amazing best friend, Cissy Etheridge. Cissy and I have know each other for about 9 years now and I am so thankful that God brought her into my life. She works for a wonderful ministry-Mercy Ministries. Cissy is a woman after God's own heart and she is always full of so much wisdom and knowledge! I love this girl! Here is a post that she wrote that I absolutely love:

I have heard it many times that God is not in a box. I have heard and even said it to myself, God can not be contained. But I am finding myself disagreeing with myself. I find that God is in a box. Not the box we think of in that He is limited to my frame of reference or to a certain space. A very big box! God is limitless while He has parameters in how He operates. I have found that if I willingly walk in His ways, I am blessed. He has ways, commandments, laws, and boundaries. I know for me I need the box. Mind you I want a big box to run around and play in, to create, to grow. But I need parameters, I need structure, I need “no’s” in my life and well as some “yes’s”. So if I am in a box, God is too. Because He is in me and He’s with me in the box. He never leaves me or forsakes me. Jesus came on this earth in human form. In His human form, He chose to live in a box. The Word became flesh and dwelt among. He emptied himself, fully God, but fully man. God choosing in His majesty, to limit himself to relate to you and to me. I think the box we live in doesn’t have a lid. It’s open to the impossibilities that come with God’s power working to make all things possible. But God has given us free will. He actually is in the box when we don’t allow His power to work in us and through us. Though we need to be a container that God can move and flow in and out of freely, we have to be willing to let that out of the box power be released to expand us and lift us up to a heavenly places. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. So is He in the box or not, you say. I know my mind works in circles and sometimes contradictions. You have to be in my mind to really get what I am sharing in this writing. I basically (don’t you love when people say basically and then make the next part of the sentence complicated- I’ll try not to disappoint here) am saying that God is in the box with me as I operate in less than what He intended for me as well as out of the box in what He is capable of doing in me as I submit to Him. Do we ever get to that place where we fully walk in absolute obedience yielding to His full on power working in us? I don’t think so. I think we get close, but not fully.Working out the finished work. Until we see Him face to face. Then it will not be in part, or in a box, but fully functioning in our fullest potential with wide open spaces on the narrow road. My prayer Lord is that everyday I would yield more to your Spirit, and less to my own flesh. I pray that I would walk according to your ways and that the box I live in will expand as I allow you to expand in me. Jesus, I pray for my friends that they would live to their fullest potential, obedient and passionate about you. May our box grow big, may we lift the lid and pour right out your heart, your joy onto all of those we meet. Amen.

Polaroid Photo Shoot

2009-11-22T15:50:00.006-06:00

Fall in Nashville

2009-11-15T20:18:00.007-06:00

From magnolias, to maples, to weeping willows, to clear blue skies in Nashville with a high of 73 brought warmth to my heart and a smile on my face. I love the color palette of fall and the breezy winds that brush through your hair. A few things caught my eye. The bottom tree with it's thorny branches reminded me of the crown that was placed on Jesus' head. The love of Christ is so powerful. Do you see the little fat bird carved in the wood in the last picture?

All I Want For Christmas.....

2009-11-11T20:29:00.004-06:00

Dear Frye, will you please grant me my Christmas wish and send me it in size 5. I promise I've been good!

My Sweet Grandmother

2009-10-20T22:19:00.004-05:00

This is my sweet grandmother, my mother's mother. Gee, is what we call her. I love my grandma and I cherish all the time I get to spend with her. She has lived a hard life. Her husband passed shortly after they married. So, I never got to know my grandfather, just as my mother never got to know her father. Can you imagine? I can't phatom trying to raise 5 children without a husband. All her life she has been staying with one of her 5 children. Each one taking turns taking care of her. She is constantly on the move. She only carries two small bags of things she owns. She has never had a lot and she has never asked for anything. She is my grandma. I love her!

October 15, 2009 is one of the sweetest moments in my life. That day we visited my frail, sick grandma. I try to visit her as often as I can. She is not doing well at all and she needs your prayers. Sitting on her bed, lots going through my mind and everything she has been through. She feels cold. She feels lonely. She feels lifeless. My heart is broken to see her in so much pain. The sadness behind her eyes and the pain she is feeling is indescribable. All I could do was silently pray for her the entire time I was there. My eyes welling up with tears, trying to stay strong for her sake, was very hard. I just want to hold her and love on her and cradle her in my arms. She says she doesn't want to suffer no more, but I say to God, "NO, not now, you can't take her, not until your work is done." Praying for God to heal her fragile body and to put life back into her and to give her strength. Tears streaming down my face as I prayed broke lose, freely, trying to let her not see me crying. I believe that she felt a little relieved as Kiran and I continued to pray out loud. It was wonderful to be praying over my grandma, who is not a believer. I never thought that I would be given such a sweet experience. But, God provided us the right time to lift her up. I know that God is capable of doing anything and I am praying for a miracle to happen.

I LOVE YOU GEE!

Me LOVE Bangles

2009-10-08T20:24:00.003-05:00

I love bangles, especially Indian bangles. They add a lot to an outfit. Accessories complete a look. I have tons and tons of bangles, thanks to my mom! Here is a set that I really want, but can't afford them. I ended up buying some different ones from them about a year ago and I absolutely adore them!

Overcoming My Insecurity

2009-10-05T21:38:00.003-05:00

I would have to say that overcoming my insecurity has been quite painful, literally! I have been praying that God would show me how to be confident in my height. I have always struggled with it for years. Recently, I was praying that I would be okay with the way He made me. Then, look what happens, I have right ankle problems. You know what that means, no high heels for a while. That made me sad. But all last week and this week I have had to wear the flatest shoes possible with my brace and I have actually become comfortable in my own skin. Sometimes, we learn lessons the hard way......

......now God, please heal my ankle pain.

Prayer Needed

2009-09-24T20:55:00.002-05:00

I am going through some tough times and struggles right now and am asking you to lift me up. Pray for provision, wisdom, knowledge, for God to provide, and favor in my life. Say a prayer for me after you get done reading this. Thank you!

A Gift To Myself

2009-09-16T21:30:00.002-05:00

I love dainty, fun, boho-type jewelry. This is my latest ring I just bought and got it custom made to fit my petite fingers. Henri-Lou is one of my new favorite designers and she has awesome, amazing, affordable pieces for men and women. So give a gift...or better yet, treat yourself...just like I did!

Learn.Pray.Act.

2009-09-15T19:31:00.002-05:00

I got the privilege to model this t-shirt for Pray With Africa. You can purchase it here and support this awesome ministry. They also have some for you too, men! Africa is close to my heart. Please pray for the people there, that God will provide them with clean water, food, homes, vaccines, malaria pills, beds, adoptive parents, etc....the list goes on and on.....

Wish These Were Mine....

2009-08-30T10:43:00.004-05:00

I wish my closet was full of these pastels and vintage pieces. Love them. One day when I open my store, you will find some simple pieces like this. Gorgeous photo by this guy!

Sweet Blessing

2009-08-23T18:06:00.006-05:00

God always looks out for us! My younger sister, Kiran, came to know Christ, a few months after I did in college, back in '98. It has truly been a blessing that God put us both in each other's life to face the trials we have had with the family together. I could have never done it alone. I will forever be grateful for that sweet blessing in my life. Kiran and Nathan's (my brother-in-law) faith in the Lord continues to encourage me in more ways than I can imagine. What an honor to walk this life out with them! If you have siblings, I encourage you to take advantage of the time you have with them. Know that they are in your life for a reason. I've seen some sibling relationships that are amazing and I've seen some that just break my heart. I pray for all the broken relationships to be restored. Only God can heal the hurt and pain, but we must be willing to surrender and let go...

Verse of the Day

2009-08-19T10:25:00.000-05:00

"but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength. Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth."

I Cor 1:24-26

One of My Favorite Blogs

2009-08-12T19:49:00.004-05:00

I am absolutely fascinated by this amazing blog that I am obsessed with checking daily. I LOVE breakfast food and just staring at her creations makes my mouth water. I wish I had time to cook beautiful breakfast like this.

I also wish I knew how to cook eggs. Mine always turn out to be a scrambled mess. Funny that I can cook everything in the world, except for eggs (or meat, b/c I'm vegetarian).

Enjoy!

My New Dress

2009-08-08T09:22:00.003-05:00

I am a sucker for dresses from here. I can't wait until I get this one in the mail. Now, I just need a good man to take me out ;)

Happy Saturday!

How I Became A Christian

2009-08-06T08:00:00.001-05:00

I am a Gujrati Indian who was born in India and moved to the United States when I was two, unfortunately I haven't had a chance to go back and visit yet. Most of my life I grew up in Southern Illinois. My parents are devout Hindus who sent us to Lighthouse Assembly of God Church. How ironic…God was preparing us at an early age. He had his hand on us. You're probably wondering why? Well, the Hindus respect all religions and believe that all Gods are the same, and they believe that there are many different roads you can take to get to God. So, they thought they should send us so we can know God.

As I was growing up, my purpose in life was to be the best I can be, to be successful, and to live happily ever after. I believe that is most people's purpose today. I loved my high school life. I was a straight "A" student who was very popular, Vice-president of my class, held offices in many organizations, and was on the Homecoming Court. Most people probably would have classified me as "Miss Goody-Goody and Teacher's Pet". Then came the time to move on to college. I was very fortunate to go away to college for my last two years; most Indian girls don't get the opportunity to move away from home. At that time I was getting the pressure to get married, but I told my parents that I will not get married until I finished college. The pressures just kept coming and coming.

In the Fall of 1997 I attended Murray State University. I went there only knowing a guy that I had worked with at The Gap. I really didn't like it my first semester there because none of my friends went there. I struggled not knowing anyone the first two weeks. The guy I knew decided to invite me to a Campus Outreach (ministry on campus) meeting. I refused to go at first, but then I decided, what the heck, I don't have anything to do tonight, why don't I go to meet some new people. So, I went and it was very different. The first thing I noticed was that all the people were so friendly and full of so much peace and joy in their hearts. They treated me as if they knew me forever. At that meeting I met a girl named Codie, who happened to be living down my hall. She and I got to be friends.

God strategically placed her in my life and in the dorm next to mine.After a while she started to question me on my beliefs. I told her that I am a Christian. Then she began to ask me a lot of questions, one was: on a scale of one to ten how sure are you that you are going to Heaven? I answered a seven or an eight. She asked me why not a 10? I said because I am a good girl, I go to church, read my Bible sometimes, and pray. She then told me that it is by grace (unmerited favor that we don't deserve) that I am saved and not by my good works (Ephesians 2:8-9). She also helped me to understand that you have to have a personal relationship with God, which I didn't have because I had never heard of that while I was growing up. Then she explained to me that man is sinful and God is Holy. She showed me the verse "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord—Romans 6:23." It basically told me that for all my sins (falling short of the glory of God—Romans 3:23) I was earning death (eternal death in Hell!!!), but God by his grace gave his Son to die for all the world's sins so I can live eternally with Him. All that blew me away! I continued to ask her how I can have a personal relationship with God and how I can be a 100% sure that I will go to Heaven. She told me that all I had to do was repent (turn 180 degrees from my ways and make God the Lord and Savior of my life) of my sins and to believe (trust) in God (Mark 1:15).

So, I did a little investigating of the scriptures on my own and decided to give my life to Christ on October 3, 1997 because I realized that my life was empty. I remember praying the sinner's prayer when I was younger, but it really didn't mean any thing to me until now. (Sinner's prayer: Jesus, I want to know you personally. Thank you for dying on the cross for all my sins. I ask you to come into my heart and to be my Lord and Savior of my life. Thank you for forgiving me of all my sins and giving me eternal life. Take control of my life and mold me into the person you want me to be. Thank you. In Jesus' name Amen). That has been the best day of my life and if I could change anything about it, I wouldn't! I have become a new creation in Christ (II Corinthians 5:17).

The change wasn't sudden, but it took place a couple weeks later. I started to see things differently, I desired to read God's Word, and most of all I felt peace and joy in my heart, that I had never experienced before. I realized that all my high school accomplishments didn't satisfy my heart like Christ did. My friend continued to help me to grow stronger in my relationship with God through Bible Study and Prayer. I then became involved with the Campus Outreach Ministry for one and a half years; through that I received a lot of training on how to develop an intimate relationship with Christ and how to share my faith effectively. I also had the opportunity to be Discipled by my friend and to go on a lot of Retreats and Conferences to help me grow. I am so blessed to receive that! It's amazing how God brought me half-way around the world to Murray State to reveal himself to me! We had been praying for my sister to come to Christ and a couple months later she came to know the Lord in January. She and I are growing stronger each and every day. We are so blessed to have each other!

Being a Christian in a Hindu family has been a real big challenge because we were basically going against the culture. Hey, it's worth it! After sometime, I was asked to be a room leader/Discipler to Disciple girls for ten weeks straight at a Summer Beach Project in Florida. March 21, 1999, I decided to take a stand and go against my parents decision. They didn't want me to go, so it later turned into a huge personal ordeal and I didn't end up going. My parents and family literally thought we were in a cult and that we were being brainwashed. We had been praying that my parents would see the difference between Hinduism and Christianity and they finally saw that there was a difference. Hinduism is basically traditions passed down from one generation to the next. By God's protection, they never pushed it on us.

After graduation I couldn't stand being at home and being pressured about marriage and being hindered in my relationship with Christ any longer, so on April 12, 2000 I decided to leave home without telling my parents. I wrote them a letter explaining to them why I had left. Like any parents, they were devastated. On April 14, 2000 they had my sister and I come home for a family intervention with them and my immediate family. It was so horrible; my family dislikes Christians and they were grieving God so much. Everyone had said a lot of harsh things to us. My family said that we don't love our parents by the way we have chose to live our life for Christ. They said, "if you were my daughters I would just shoot you and go to jail" and the other family member said, "I would tie you both up and beat you to death." Later that night the gave us an ultimatum, they made us make a decision to either chose God or chose the family. By choosing family we would no longer be able to have contact with our Christian friends, be a Christian, go to church, and read our Bible, basically they wanted us to deny Christ. The next day we left home, because we could never turn our backs on such a Faithful and Real God. Six days had gone by, and my parents call us back and tell us that they want us to come back home and that we can be Christians, go to church, read our Bible, marry a Christian, and move out on our own. Today my family sees how much God is blessing us. They know that we are great daughters who don't want to harm anyone. Some of our family still mocks us for being Christians. In the Indian culture reputation is everything to them, so they can't stop telling us how much we have ruined their lives. It's okay because God is what is important to us, not their reputation. I consider it to be a pure joy to suffer through these trials because it has allowed me to be more like Christ and to have fully experience God's Faithfulness, Love, and Goodness firsthand! To tell you the truth, if I had to go through this again, I would always choose God! It really helps me to build my faith. God is Awesome! He works all things out for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28-29)!

Today my purpose in life is to know God at a more deeper and intimate level and to make him known and to glorify Him in everything I do. God has chosen me to be His servant and witness to fulfill the Great Commission: "Therefore go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age"—Matthew 28: 19-20. My hearts desire is to Disciple girls and teach them how to make laborers for a lifetime. I want them to experience God the way I do and to show them His Greatness! If your questioning your salvation, then you should take the I John test. All of I John tests your faith in Christ to see if you really are a true follower of Him. I just want to challenge you with one last thing: On a scale of one to ten, where do you stand? and to examine your lives and ask yourselves what is my purpose in life?

I do not live with my parents anymore, but do have a wonderful relationship with them. I think through all this, they love us more than they ever have. They do see the things that Christ has done in our life. Most Indian girls are not suppose to live on there own, but my sister and I took a stand for Christ and He worked all things out. My sister is married to an American guy (January 22, 2005) and that is very badly looked upon by the Indian community. Through much prayer, God allowed my parents to come to the wedding (they were not going to come at first) and walk my sister down the aisle. They have accepted Nathan into my family and love and respect him so much. Not only that, my grandma and cousins even like him a lot. I am excited to see how God is going to use me and my future husband to reach out to them. God is so faithful to answer us and bless us in so many ways. I think my older sister may have become a believer this spring. I can't wait 'til the rest of my family does too! We never dreamt that this would be possible, but again God makes the impossible => possible.

Unconditional Friendships

2009-07-30T20:20:00.003-05:00

I have just been thinking a lot lately about UNCONDITIONAL LOVE and how Jesus lived such a perfect life and how he loves every human being the same way. He shows no favorites. He doesn’t let bitterness or anger change his love for others. He can look past the hurt that people brought upon him. How? Through authentic forgiveness. He doesn’t judge his love for others based on what his friends think of the other person.

I am convicted. Are you?

I’m going to be very transparent here and let you know that God has been teaching me to love unconditionally. Recently, I’ve had to ask for forgiveness for treating my friend with conditional love. As I digged deeper into why I treated this person a certain way was b/c of my other friend’s opinion of this person. I realized that whatever happened b/w the two of them was b/w them and not me. They are going to have to forgive and leave the past in the past. If they keep bringing it up, then they haven’t experienced authentic forgiveness yet. All I can do is pray for God to work in both of their hearts and restore the friendship.

So, why do we let other people’s opinions influence how we are going to treat someone? Is it b/c we don't want to lose a friend? We have to remind ourselves that whatever hurt and pain there is b/w our friends is b/w them and not b/w them and me. God may use us to mend the friendships, but we have to show unconditional love to both sides. I know some people who don’t show unconditional love b/c they are basing their friendships off of what he/she did to the other person that was so hurtful. I also know people who don’t want to be friends with you b/c you are friends with the person that they don’t get along with. I'm sure you have friends like this in your life?

Do you realize that every person we come into contact with is in our life for some reason! We are to see Jesus through their eyes. Who gives us the right to be nice to one person and not to other. In order to be like Christ....we must love like Christ. I believe that forgiveness is the key to unconditional love among friends.

They Are Worth Every Penny

2009-07-22T18:41:00.004-05:00

If you have never tried a "las paletas", then you are missing out!!! These are the best gourmet popsicles you will ever eat. They are made with whole fruits and fresh ingredients.

Yeah, they may cost $2.50 each, but they are worth every single penny.

Here, I had to take my niece and nephew to try them. Keep in mind that it was in the upper 80's that day and very hot and humid, so the cream flavored ones melted so fast before we could even finish them. But, they were delicious down to the last bite :)

A Year Ago Today...

2009-07-10T22:56:00.004-05:00

I was arriving in Kigali, Rwanda. It was a bittersweet moment, while I was celebrating life, they were mourning the loss of loved ones. There was so much sadness and coldness in a city that was torn to pieces by the Genocide.

We never know what is going to come our way and that reminds me all the more that we need to celebrate our life.

Thankful for another day to live and breathe.

As I celebrate this day today, I will always remember you O' Sweet Rwanda. You are so precious to me!

My 32nd Birthday in Rwanda is probably going to be the most memorable birthdays ever. One that I will never forget.

(I was going to post my journal entry from this day last year, but at the moment I cannot locate my Africa Journal)

Cooking Is A Hobby

2009-06-25T23:09:00.002-05:00

I love to cook.

It's a hobby.

I like to experiment.

It makes me happy.

Soul Sisters

2009-06-17T22:55:00.007-05:00

First, I just want to apologize for not posting for weeks. It's been a crazy schedule for me with work being busy and then hanging with my dearest friends in the evenings.

Despite the busyness, I do have to say, I love my life and all who are in it!!!

I just want to give a shout out to my accountability group. They are some of the most Godly women in my life who lead by example. We have all been there for each during good times in our lives and the personal trials that all of have faced.

I love that we can encourage each other, be honest and transparent, pray together and push each other towards God, and share what God's doing in our lives. I also love that we can laugh together, cry together, and play practical jokes on each other.

If you don't have an accountability group, then I would encourage you to have one!!

My Favorite Jewels

2009-05-20T20:03:00.005-05:00

I wish I had $2,057.40 to buy 25 pieces of my favorite jewelry from here. Feel free to buy me anything from my wish list :)

I love dainty-delicate jewels!

The yellow bracelet is one of my favorites that I am dying to have.

........you know, my birthday is in July!

Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad

2009-05-19T21:08:00.003-05:00

My parents have been married for 36 years. This lovely picture was taken in India, so beatuiful! Happy Anniversary!

Are You Missing Blessings?

2009-05-17T15:41:00.003-05:00

Imagine going to heaven and standing by God as He lovingly shows you the calender of His plan for your earthly life. It begins with the day you are born. Once you received Christ as Savior, every day that follows is outlined in red. You see footprints walking through each day of each week of your life. On many of the days, two sets of footprints appear. You inquire: "Father, are those my footprints on the calendar every day and is the second set of prints when you joined me?"

He answers, "No, My precious Child. The consistent footprints on your calender are Mine. The second set of footprints are when you joined Me."

"Where were You going, Father?"

"To the destiny I planned for you, hoping you'd follow."

"But, Father, where are my footprints all those times?"

He answers, "Sometimes you went back to look at old resentments and habits while I was still going forward, hoping you'd join Me. Sometimes, you departed from My path and chose your own calendar instead. Other times, your footprints can even be seen on another person's calendar because you thought you liked their plan better. At other times, you simply stopped because you would not let go of something you could not take to the next day."

"But, Father, we ended up OK even if I didn't walk with You every day, didn't we?"

He holds you close and smiles, "Yes, Child, we ended up OK. But, you see, OK was never what I had in mind for you."

"Father, what are those golden treasure boxes on certain days?"

"Blessings, My child, I had for you along the way. Those that are open are those you received. Those still closed were days you did not walk with Me."

~By Beth Moore "Breaking Free"

This is one of my favorite things I read in college when I was being discipled and it makes me wonder how many blessings have I missed!

1 Corinthians 2:9 says "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him"

A Mother's Love Determines How

2009-05-10T09:33:00.003-05:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO MY MOM & GRANDMA & SISTER~ I LOVE YOU!

A mother's love determines how

We love ourselves and others.

There is no sky we'll ever see

Not lit by that first love.

Stripped of love, the universe

Would drive us mad with pain;

But we are born into a world

That greets our cries with joy.

How much I owe you for the kiss

That told me who I was!

The greatest gift--a love of life--

Lay laughing in your eyes.

Because of you my world still has

The soft grace of your smile;

And every wind of fortune bears

The scent of your caress.

By: Turlough O'Carolan

Waiting Is Hard

2009-05-02T23:36:00.003-05:00

“Everyone longs to give themselves completely to someone — to have a deep soul relationship with another; to be loved thoroughly and exclusively; but God, to a Christian, says:

“No, not until you’re satisfied, fulfilled and content with being loved by Me alone; with giving yourself totally and unreservedly to me; to having an intensely personal relationship with me alone; discovering that only in Me is your satisfaction to be planned for you.

You will never be united with another until you are united with Me — exclusive of anyone or anything else, exclusive of any other desires or longings. I want you to stop planning, stop wishing, and allow Me to give you the most thrilling plan existing, one that you cannot imagine.

I want you to have the best. Please allow me to bring it to you. You just keep watching Me, expecting the greatest things. Keep experiencing the satisfaction that I Am. Keep listening and learning the things I tell you.

You just wait. That’s all.

Don’t be anxious; don’t worry. Don’t look around at the things that others have gotten or that I’ve given them. Don’t look at the things you think you want. You just keep looking off and away up to Me, or you’ll miss what I want to show you. And then, when you’re ready, I’ll surprise you with a love far more wonderful than any you would ever dream of.

You see, until you are ready, and until the one I have for you is ready (for I am working even at this moment to have both of you ready at the same time), until you are both satisfied and exclusively with me and the life I prepared for you, you won’t be able to experience the love that exemplifies your relationship with Me, and thus the perfect love.

And, dear one, I want you to see, in the flesh, a picture of your everlasting union of beauty, perfection and love that I offer you with Myself. Know that I love you utterly. I AM. Believe it and be satisfied.

~Author Unknown

Live. And Live Well.

2009-04-26T16:31:00.000-05:00

Live. And Live Well.
" Live. And Live Well. BREATHE. Breathe in and Breathe deeply. Be PRESENT. Do not be past. Do not be future. Be now. On a crystal clear, breezy 70 degree day, roll down the windows and FEEL the wind against your skin. Feel the warmth of the sun. If you run, then allow those first few breaths on a cool Autumn day to FREEZE your lungs and do not just be alarmed, be ALIVE. Get knee-deep in a novel and LOSE track of time. If you bike, pedal HARD… and if you crash then crash well. Feel the SATISFACTION of a job well done-a paper well-written, a project thoroughly completed, a play well-performed. If you must wipe the snot from your 3-year old's nose, don't be disgusted if the Kleenex didn't catch it all… because soon he'll be wiping his own. If you've recently experienced loss, then GRIEVE. And Grieve well. At the table with friends and family, LAUGH. If you're eating and laughing at the same time, then might as well laugh until you puke. And if you eat, then SMELL. The aromas are not impediments to your day. Steak on the grill, coffee beans freshly ground, cookies in the oven. And TASTE. Taste every ounce of flavor. Taste every ounce of friendship. Taste every ounce of Life. Because-it-is-most-definitely-a-Gift."

-Kyle Lake, Sermon

0 comments:

Transparency

2009-04-13T21:04:00.003-05:00

I love these pics by Tia. She knows how to capture the light!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-13T20:47:00.003-05:00

Happy Easter ~ My Jesus has risen! Hear the lyrics to this song we sang at church yesterday and meditate on it!

It's so moving and it's currently stuck on repeat ;)

2 Weeks

2009-03-26T19:01:00.002-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted for awhile.

I've been busy with trying to balance my schedule with my new job, working out, cooking and cleaning, and time with friends! Usually by the time I get home, I am EXHAUSTED! And, I don't want to give anything up. Actually, I have kept adding stuff to my schedule.

I have done great by going to bed by 10:30 every night, so I could be up at 6:30 for work.

I love my job and the wonderful people I work with. I couldn't have asked for a better place. Although, I still do think about my dream of starting my clothing line!

Time To Celebrate!

2009-03-12T16:53:00.004-05:00

It's time to celebrate now! It's been a long 4.5 months of looking and lots of "you are over-qualified" to finally "we would love to have you on board with our company". I never gave up on looking for a job. I stayed on top of applying after applying and interviewing after interviewing.

Christ is faithful to answer my prayers. God opened the door for me. He always provides at the right timing and never fails to meet all my needs. God is so good! All glory belongs to him!

Thank you Jesus for always having your hand over me and favor on me. Thank you for allowing me an opportunity to work for a great company. God, now I pray for your wisdom, knowledge, and grace at this job. God, I also pray that you will use me there. I pray these things in sweet Jesus' name! Amen!

My 3rd Polaroid

2009-03-10T18:15:00.004-05:00

Spring is here.... Well, at least for a bit. Nashville is suppose to get a cold front tonight, which will drop our temps to the mid-50's. Today it was 81. That makes me happy!

Sweet Finds

2009-03-09T19:46:00.003-05:00

These acrylic, hand-painted rings are awesome! I own the one you see above. I love it. It reminds me a little bit of Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters. You can buy them here and they are reasonably priced!

Give Me Your Eyes

2009-03-09T17:22:00.002-05:00

Give me your eyes for just one second

Give me your eyes so I can see

Everything that I keep missing

Give me your love for humanity

Give me your arms for the broken hearted

Ones that are far beyond my reach

Give me your heart for the ones forgotten

Give me your eyes so I can see

These lyrics are from Brandon Heath's Song "Give Me Your Eyes"

Sometimes, the things of this world become a distraction and we tend to lose focus on God. I pray those lyrics so that I can see through HIS eyes and that I will have a selfless unconditional love for people.

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting (Ps 139:23-24)

Lord, give us clean hands and a pure heart so that we may have worship you only. Remove the idols and distractions in our life. Give us an undivided heart so that we may follow your good and perfect ways.

Let this be your prayer.

Ceramic Pot

2009-03-09T17:15:00.004-05:00

This is a ceramic pot that I made for my teacher at MCHS back in 1993. He posted the picture the other day on facebook to share with me. Wow, I can't believe that he kept it. Craig Rhodes was one of my favorite teachers and taught us a lot. He is by far one of the most talented artists I have ever known!

My 2nd Polaroid

2009-03-06T10:13:00.003-06:00

Polaroid vs. Digital

My 1st Polaroid

2009-03-05T10:01:00.005-06:00

Polaroid vs. Digital

My New Camera

2009-02-25T23:19:00.006-06:00

Okay, so it's not new, but it's new to me!

This is a camera that my parents had for over 20 something years now and I am super excited to use it! I can't wait to share the pics with you soon....

Streets

2009-02-23T14:04:00.001-06:00

Crosspoint sang this song yesterday morning. Just read and feel the lyrics in your heart.

"STREETS"

When shadows turn to faces, and when faces take on names
When names tell us their stories, of their brokenness and pain
When love flows through the cities, through the grid of all the streets
Under bridges in the alleys, like blood through our veins

Love is real
Love will bleed
Love will heal
Love will need

When love is used like money, it turns into our greed
When love is more like water, then everyone will drink
So let it flow through all our cities, and flood them like the sea
Fill the souls that hunger, Lord give us what we need

Love change the world …
Love change the world …

You can see it when He walks around
You can feel it when He moves the ground
We’re all colored with a crimson stain
Can you see it now, can you see Him now

From the clouds to the world below
From the mountain to the city of gold
Love is coming like an urgent rain
Can you feel it now, can you feel Him now

Eye Candy

2009-02-21T13:25:00.006-06:00

Why couldn't there be clones of these two?

Why can't they be older?

Why are they so freakin' beautiful?

HOT-HOT-HOT is all I have to say about Chace Crawford and Zac Efron. I guess I am a sucker for long hair and blue eyes and a chiseled face!

My Style Inspiration

2009-02-19T16:32:00.003-06:00

I LOVE Nicole Richie and her style! She is truely one my favorite fashion icons. I love the way she knows how to accessorize every outfit w/o overdoing it. She has amazing hair. She has class. I don't care if you disagree with me....it won't change what I think. Not only that, she is not much taller than me :)

Happy LOVE Day!

2009-02-14T11:32:00.004-06:00

I Want To Be...

2009-02-12T14:49:00.004-06:00

...FAMOUS...

I can't wait until the day I get my big break in a movie. Right now, I have the privilege to be the lead in an Indy film "LoveJourney". I can't wait to see how it all turns out. I want to pursue acting full-time, but Nashville isn't the place for it. If I can move to LA right now, I would in a heartbeat. I'm sure everyone moves to LA for that reason, just like everyone moves to Nashville for their big break in music. The stars of "Slumdog Millionaire" have inspired me even more!

I also want to be famous for my clothes that I will be designing one day.

I want to be FAMOUS so I can share the love of Christ through acting, fashion, and art. I want to be a positive role model to people. I want to leave a legacy behind that will impact people one day that will go on forever and ever.

Spring Is Almost Here

2009-02-09T16:51:00.005-06:00

I cannot wait for the warm weather. I love breezy summer dresses. I have both of these dresses and am so excited to wear them. They are a little pricey, but my clothes last forever because I take care of them really well! You can buy them here.

Need To Relax

2009-02-04T11:57:00.004-06:00

I stumbled upon a blog by Jen Gotch, that I absolutely love! She is super talented and has inspired me, as well as many others, to pursue my dream of designing clothes. Here is one that will definitely give you some R&R...(don't forget to press play). ENJOY! (Allie, I think you will love this!!!)

Just Me...

2009-02-03T16:58:00.003-06:00

Here are new pics of me that my friend, Stan Boyd, took of me. I will tell you that I am not camera shy when it comes to being photographed. I actually love it! All the hair and makeup is done by me. And, he also doesn't retouch his photos either! I hope you like them.

I Want These...

2009-02-01T15:40:00.007-06:00

I love this awesome website for everything handmade. This girl designs these dresses in Portland, OR! Sarah totally knows my style, Old Hollywood Glamour. The yellow dress would be fun to wear at my birthday party and the white one would be fun to wear on a beach wedding!

Ebelskivers-Yum!

2009-01-31T09:46:00.005-06:00

This was my delicious breakfast today. Yes, I made them and they turned out perfect! Thanks to Williams-Sonoma! Now, I wish I had someone to share them with.

Yes, I Am Day Dreaming

2009-01-29T13:44:00.006-06:00

The cool summer breeze and the relaxing ocean sound, nestled on my daybed reading a book and sipping a pina colda. This WILL be on my covered patio on my beach house facing the ocean...one day... Don't worry, I'll let you come visit me anytime!

Manak Ma = Gee

2009-01-28T00:05:00.003-06:00

Born in 1922. Indian. Speaks Gujarati. Got married at 6. Had her first child at 18. Had 7 sisters and brothers who all passed at young age. Lost her husband at young age. Busy body. Loves to give advice. I secretly think she understands English. This is my grandma.

Which One Is Falguni?

2009-01-26T16:40:00.004-06:00

So, can you guess which one is me? I love this picture. It's probably about 30 years old. Yikes! I'm telling my age.

eXile International

2009-01-24T18:06:00.005-06:00

My amazing friend, Beth Haley, had the opportunity to go to Congo twice in 2008. Utilizing her experiences as both a social worker and psychologist, Beth launched this unique organization to serve people of Africa who are not only living in true EXILE, but also in emotional EXILE, lacking the security and stability of heart that many of us take for granted. Working in concert with existing African organizations and relying on the leadership of local community leaders, the program began in Congo and with your prayers and blessings will soon spread throughout eastern Africa. eXile International's ultimate goal is to usher into Africa a new generation of hope, healing, and peace. The picture above was taken by her on one of her journeys. She holds an event called "Labor of Love" in Nashville, TN, where some of the beautiful pictures are auctioned off to raise money for eXile. I would encourage you to come to the February 13th event; you don't want to miss it!!!

Necklace For A Cause

2009-01-23T08:00:00.004-06:00

I had the privilege to visit "Sisters of Rwanda" when I was in Africa. I hope you enjoy these beautiful necklaces made out of magazines. Each one is handmade. No two are alike. They can be worn so many ways. Each one sold helps the beautiful women in Rwanda. I own several of them! You can buy them here and learn more about the wonderful ministry!

A Beautiful Rawandan Woman Wrote This...

2009-01-22T08:00:00.003-06:00

I've shared this before, but it's a great reminder! I found this on my mission trip to Rwanda in July 2008.

Spring Get Here, Please

2009-01-21T16:21:00.004-06:00

I love frilly-flowy, tops that look good alone or with light cardigans.... I have this one already in dark navy blue, but I want this one too! You can buy it here.

My size is "xs" if you feel like buying me something :)

Serving Others

2009-01-16T10:33:00.003-06:00

Yesterday I went to Crosspoint to Volunteer around 10am. They needed help putting the booklets together for the Community Fair this weekend. There were about 12 people putting together 1000 books and 1600 programs. We rocked, because we got it done in 2 hours! Then, after everyone left, I filled all the pews with offering envelopes. At about 2pm, some of us went to hand out fleece blankets to the homeless. We took about 70 blankets and to see the homeless so grateful, just put a smile on my face. But, the thought that came to me was, the homeless in America are wealthy compared to the homeless in Africa.

O'dear Africa, you will always have a place in my heart and will never be forgotten!

I love that the people at Crosspoint have such a giving heart. They are constantly reaching out to the community. I am so glad to say that I am a member of Crosspoint!!!

I love and enjoy helping people out. I never expect anything from it. But, I do know that it does make me feel great when I am able to serve others. I really love it and I put more than a 110% into it. I try to do everything as I am doing it to the Lord, whether it is paid or not paid. I know that my God is faithful to reward in many different ways. My joy comes from Him and am so thankful to know Christ. I constantly try to live my life like Christ did in Matthew where it talks about: The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.

How will you serve today?

My Art

2009-01-13T18:16:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to let you all know that I am officially selling my original art pieces. No two pieces will ever be alike. Here is the first one for sale...Enjoy!

Unexpected Blessing

2009-01-11T21:26:00.007-06:00

Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. O LORD Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you. (Psalm 84:10-12)

After church, I went and got my mail and saw something that looked like a bill, so I didn't open it right away. I waited about an hour and decided I'm gonna have to open it sooner or later, so I opened it. Little did I know, there was a blessing in this envelope. Wow, wow, wow, is all I could say to myself!

God is Jehovah Jireh! He knows my needs and he never fails to bless me! I received a pretty nice check in the mail and was just in shock. Praise God for his wonderful blessings. I am so thankful that his hand is on me and his favor is always overflowing in my life.

Thank you Lord, for always providing for me and looking after me. You are so good to me and I don't deserve anything, but I will receive the treasures you have laid before me. Continue Lord, to bless me, protect me, and provide for me. I am trusting you with my future and my job God. I know you only want the best for me and I receive it in Jesus name. I love you! Amen, daddy!

Weeping & Hurt

2009-01-06T20:27:00.004-06:00

My heart is weeping.
My soul is grieving.
My tears are streaming.

I don't even know how to start out but to be flat out honest with people. Know that I am not afraid to speak my mind! I've been crying and pouring out my heart to God for you.

This may be you or this may not be you. But, I felt compelled to write this. I am not judging you on anything. That's God's job to bring judgment and conviction to your heart. I'm just confronting you or simply trying to tell you that I care for you and don't want you to be misrepresenting our Savior and hurting others!

There are two things that are weighing heavily on my heart right now:

First of all, some of you who claim to be followers of Christ are simply grieving God by the way you are representing him and living your life. Some of you can't seem to control yourselves when you are drinking and thinks it's okay. Then, you go to church asking God to forgive, but then you turn around and do it again and again. Some of you go around talking and bragging about how you got drunk the night before. Really?! Is that really something you want to be known for? When some of you get drunk, you start doing things that you are going to regret. Common people! God sees everything. He's not blind. He knows you inside and out. He knows your motives. Do you even see how much this grieves God? How can you do this to Him? If you struggle with it, get help. Get an accountable person. Get a mentor. Live a life that is pleasing to God!!!!

Second of all, my heart is hurting for seeing the relationships that some people have with each other. Some of you may be verbally or physically abused. It hurts. How can you talk to someone with hurtful words? How can you be so mean to someone? How can you belittle someone? What do you get out of treating people like this? I don't understand. I know...it's because your selfish and you need help! Plain and simple. Imagine that being done right back at you...a taste of your own medicine! Now, how does that make you feel? Still Heartless- probably because you are so use to treating someone like that! Or Hurt? I mean how could you treat someone like this. I don't understand! Why are people so cruel and bitter to each other! Again your selfishness hurts people. What do you gain out of treating people like this? Why do you take your anger out on others? Tell me, I want to know.

The way you live your life speaks a lot about your character and who you are. What does your life say about you? By no means, I am NOT perfect, but I do try to live a life that is pleasing to the Lord. God deserves respect from us and we owe it to him! Be an imitator of Christ. Quit living a double standard!

God's Vision vs. My Vision

2009-01-06T10:45:00.006-06:00

The other day, one of my friends posted this on his facebook status that really stuck to me:

Friend: I want to see God's vision and dream for my life. Mine is too small.

Me: Amen! Me too!

Friend: I heard someone say that when we dream and try to achieve those dreams, they are only human dreams...what if we could tap in to what God dreams for us???? WOW! Could you imagine?

Then I was having my daily devo last night and started reading in I Samuel 1. It kind of goes hand in hand with the above. Hannah is a very faithful woman, but she also is very much like us. Sometimes, we weep, become angry and bitter b/c God doesn't answer us right away. Or, we get upset when things don't go the way we want them to go. She prayed and believed year after year for a son. She never gave up on the Lord and his promise. God had favor on her and granted her a son (Samuel whose name means God heard) that she so desired. Not only that, she promised to give him to the Lord all the days of his life. What a sacrifice she made!

Our vision for what God can do is so narrow. Sometimes, we don't pray specific enough. We need to ask God what his vision or dream for our life is. He has a plan for us and if we are truly seeking his best interest, then he is going to show us his will for our life. God tells us to bring everything to him and he WILL answer. A quote that F. B. Meyer said that is a constant reminder is:

"The greatest tragedy in life is not unanswered prayer, but unoffered prayer."

I am guilty of not being specific and having a narrow vision. I pray that God will grant me the desires of my heart and show me his will for my life. I pray that he will broaden my vision and dream for myself. I pray that I continue to become the woman he wants me to be!

Love, peace, and grace to you!

Helen Keller Quote

2009-01-05T16:55:00.003-06:00

"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart"

What 2009 Holds

2009-01-02T14:01:00.003-06:00

What 2009 holds for me:

Hopefully a successful clothing line named "falguni" (after I take my sewing classes)

Hopefully a start to my acting career (after finishing an Indy film: LoveJourney)

Hopefully a good man to come into my life

Hopefully to become super successful, so I can share my wealth with my family

Hopefully to go to India or some other country for another vacation/mission trip

I speak these things into my life and may God grant me the desires of my heart. I will continue to believe good things for me. God bless me this year beyond measure!

Random.

2008-12-30T22:27:00.004-06:00

Today, I decided to delete my Myspace account! It feels so great to do it. I am just tired of all these networking sites. Sometimes, they consume me...know what I mean?!

So, I am de-cluttering my life.

Don't worry, my blog won't go anywhere and neither will my Facebook. I am too straight-forward and out-spoken to delete my blog. I do like to speak my mind, though I may not come off that way to you. Maybe this New Year, I will spend less time on Facebook and more time reading and learning new hobbys.

Something to look forward to: a blog that I will be posting soon about "Arranged Marriages". I will probably get a lot of heat for speaking out about it, but I'm ready to tell all about how Indian women are really treated! And, more to follow about the Indian culture.

Hope you have a wonderful New Year full of blessings!

Good Night!

Sad

2008-12-28T12:22:00.003-06:00

Sad that I am leaving tomorrow to head back to Nashville.

Sad that the I won't see my sister for several months, except via Skype.

Sad that I won't see my niece and nephew grow, except via Skype.

Thank God for Skype!

Saddened by the things that I have witnessed and seen in the past week.

Cried myself to sleep the past few days.

Hurting for people. Feeling their pain.

Sad that life is not fair for some.

Thankful that I have Christ and His great love to rely on and count on.