do beards and shorts go together??

It’s so funny when you think about how style changes with every passing season. From skinny to boot cut jeans. This year I have seen all the new 80’s looks in the windows throughout our mall. One of the things that seem to be remaining the same is this trend for beards. Almost the entire staff at our church has a beard (well except for Brad).  They love those things to the point that even one guy has named his Samson.  Last night I was hanging out with some friends and the question was asked “do beards and shorts go together”. I have gotten so use to Richard’s beard that if he shaves it I will have to come reacquainted with his face all over again. (haha)  I was thinking about style and how I honestly have none.  I just seem to look at what fits my body type the best rather than really dressing however I want. For years I think I have been so bound to the “plus size”  that I haven’t really stepped out to embrace a certain style.  Now don’t get me wrong there are several places who sale very cute and trendy clothes for us thick girls but I have never stepped out and tried any of the really cute clothes hanging on the mannequins. This morning I was looking for something to put on and I looked over in the pile of clothes that my sister had sent me a few months ago. I was in a size 24 just 8 months ago and so I was afraid her cute little green khaki old navy size 18 pants were not going to fit. I HAVE THEM ON!! I was so excited to say the least. I looked in the mirror and began to just thank Jesus for how much this weight loss journey has meant to me and my heart. I am coming into ME for the first time in my life. I see things I like and don’t like and no longer am I seeing the amount on the scale. So do beards go with shorts?? I say if you feel confident GO FOR IT! I love watching women step out of what is trending to be who God created them to be.   I believe its time for girls and women of all ages to look past the reflection in the mirror and dress funky, preppy, formal, hippy, or trendy. Just walk in the confidence that the Creator of the universe thinks your breathtaking no matter what hairstyle you have or crazy look you are currently rocking!

Psalm 45:11 Let the King be enthralled by your beauty, honor Him for He is your Lord

BE  YOU and SHINE today!!

Holly

weight lifting... OUCH

This week I have had some major back pain.  My friend and I started a new workout video that is now requiring us to lift weights. Strength straining is such a great component to exercise because it burns lots of calories when I am doing nothing and I like that!  I noticed throughout this week that sitting, standing or lying for too long would hurt my back and so I found myself completely uncomfortable.   I was on my way to pick up Rachel from school one afternoon and I thought about all the people that I know who are struggling with addictions, or numbness, or complacency or depression and the list goes on and on. I thought about the times in my life where I was in the midst of pain and struggling through my own junk. I realized that just like changing positions trying to ease my back pain I would often try and change the position of my heart hoping that it would ease or release me from the bondage I was in rather than just dealing with the issue itself.  We tuck away all the junk that clogs up our dreams and our freedom and then when we find ourselves in so much pain we only try to ease the pain rather than get rid of it all together.  God wants to take those dark places in your heart and remove them for good. He wants to use your pain to bring Glory to His name. He sent His son to set you free.  Changing churches, changing friendships, changing jobs, changing your passion will only bring temporary relief.  You have to fully surrender, walk in obedience and leave the results to Him. He is sovereign and He knows what you fear, what you struggle with and what plagues your mind.  When you shift your eyes from your circumstances to God’s unbelievable power you can then rest in the promise of His strength.  We know that we are going to face trials. Some of those seasons will leave us breathless and struggling to even stand but God’s strength and His love for us is what brings forth new life in us. It’s resting in Him ALONE not relationships, dreams, friendships, drugs, sex, food or whatever it may be that you want so badly to fill that void. Be encouraged today!  There is NOTHING to big for our Creator. Take those burdens that are weighing your heart down and leave the results up to Him. 

Matthew 11:28-30   Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."

Holly