The Power of a Story

The power of a story can be an incredible thing! Whether it's reading a book to a child, or sharing a story about "the olden days", a story can change your mood, or give you something to think about! Going back through history, you can see how the stories were passed down from generation to generation. Each had a purpose, or a moral to them. Some were about events that occurred; others about how to live the best you could be. The Bible was originally passed down through the spoken word, memorized carefully, and preserved through generations. The books rich with examples of how God calls us to live, work, and show His love, kept the Christian faith alive! 

Stories are a big part of the relationship between John and I! The first time we began to flirt was when I taught a story, and he copied me blatantly! (I should sue him! ;~) Haha!) Anyways, from the beginning, stories are a part of our relationship. We started sometime last year, telling each other stories about silly things or about what might happen someday when we serve God. One of my favorites was one he told about a bunny! They bring us a smile when one of us may be sad or bring us hope when we are discouraged. Sometimes they even remind us of how God always is faithful even during hard times!

Today I want to share a little story of my own, that happened today, two years ago! <3

Once upon a time was two people contentedly emailing back and forth. Those two people were actually John and I. I was working on a blog post, and asked his advice when the tables turned, and the following conversation ensued.

J: Hey moriah could you be praying for me i have some things that have been weighing on my mind heavily lately and im very on the fence on what to do. :-/

M: It is awesome! I certainly will be praying!!! :( God will show you what's right. He always does..... idk if it would help, but Psalm 13 came to mind :~) 

J: Did that seriously just come to you this moment!

M: Um yes....I memorized it this past spring, and it popped into my head! 

J: Thats crazy it. Its like perfect to answer my question i mean wow im kinda speechless right now.

M: Weren't we just saying how awesome and amazing God is?? :' ) 

J: Its just its what ive been asking God for. I think he may have finally granted me my request. I really cant believe it.

M: I'm so happy for you John! That's wonderful!!!

J: Yeah at least i think He is saying i can have what i asked for im still a bit nervous but i think its a yes?

M: I'm sure it will be clear soon, in due timing :~)

J: Thats what i said 5 years ago.... Its been a long battle. :-/

M: :( do you mind telling me about it or no?

J: Um i dont know if i should it isnt bad but i dont know give me a second to think.

M: I understand if you don't. :) 

J: Its so hard i want to tell you because i know you could help but i dont know what the reprucussions of that would be this has happened once before and it didnt go so well last time.

M: I trust you to use your discernment. :~)

J: Ok you what just whatever. Ok for the past few years ive been asking God for a girl one who would fit into his plan and that i could you know "date" for the next 4-5 years i tried and failed twice to interpret Gods plan and i felt like a complete failure for the longest time. And now i think He is beginning to reveal His plan to me after all these years. So yeah thats it.

M: Sometimes God uses trials like that for us to learn and grow. I'm very happy for you :~) 

J: Yeah you are right and ive been learning why its been this way over these years but still i just feel like this girl is going to just be another failure for me to carry with me and i dont know if she even likes be back its rediculous i just dont know and im afraid to say anything for fear of killing our friendship which happened before as well. I just feel stuck.

M: Ah I see...quick story.....last guy I liked I told him so. I was scared stiff from making the mistakes I've made in the past. He didn't feel the same way but he agreed to pray. While my friendship with him became more brother-sister, we both could clearly see God's answer because of our honesty with each other. Now I have an awesome "brother"....honesty is best.

J: Ok ok....well you said it honesty is best moriah i like you its you the one who God put in my yead out of no where ive prayed about it and now you know what im sick of just sitting around its not why ive been so nice to you but through us talking its just been in my head for a while. So there i said it and now you may reject me but please make it quick ive been waiting for closure on this for a while...

M: Oh John! I like you too! You know last week when we were talking?? That was the day I knew I'd never be more than a sister to my friend.

J: Wow im just completely blown away right now you have no idea i wish you could see my face right now. :-D

And they have lived happily ever after! Well, mostly! ;~) The end!

The Princess: a fun little story

Once upon a time, there was a princess!

The Princess

shows

Hidden Mercies

during

Crime and Punishment,

&

War and Peace.

Though she may be A Little Princess,

As Time Goes By,

she is one of the most Essential Thinkers I know.

She gives all her clothes away, excpet for The Last Silk Dress

which she always wears with a National Velvet cape.

When her kingdom, A Kingdom Far and Clear,

with Castles in the Air, 

celebrates The Return of the King,

the princess heralds his return with The Trumpet of the Swan.

All in all, the princess is a Lady of High Regard!

The End!

Photo-A-Day - Day 7!

"Unique" - A story of 4 quarters!

The story starts with a pair of shoes. Canvas ballet shoes to be exact. The shoes were bought so that we could do our shows at various nursing homes in our area. Though something was overlooked, and we found out that we had overpaid. 

My ballet instructor gave us 4 quarters in change so that we were even. The quarters were left in an envelope - completely forgotten - while the shoes were used for our shows. 

One day, it was a dismal day, and we were in a rough patch. It was that day in which I found the 4 quarters. A glimmer of hope on a depressing day. The quarters were then forgotten after the rough patch was over, and it was lost in a sea of envelopes. 

Every Mother's Day, our Church hands out baby bottles for a local organization that is pro-life, and does so much with the little they have. I've personally raised money for them before, and sometimes through miraculous ways! We took home a baby bottle last year but we never took it back on Father's day, so we slowly added change throughout the year to it.

Today I stumbled upon the envelope with the 4 quarters. Its time for them to go where they are needed next, and they are now in the baby bottle for New Hope. As I dropped them into the bottle, I saw that the bottle is almost full. On Father's Day, we will take the bottle to Church, and from there it'll go to New Hope, to bring new hope to those who are needing it most!

Those 4 little quarters have brought hope to many! Through the shoes that we use at our nursing home shoes, encouraging me through a dismal time, and finally to bring hope to women who need it most! 

God is good! :~) <3 God is so very good! 

Psalm 111 (ESV)

Praise the Lord!
I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart,
    in the company of the upright, in the congregation.
Great are the works of the Lord,
    studied by all who delight in them.
Full of splendor and majesty is his work,
    and his righteousness endures forever.
He has caused his wondrous works to be remembered;
    the Lord is gracious and merciful.
He provides food for those who fear him;
    he remembers his covenant forever.
He has shown his people the power of his works,
    in giving them the inheritance of the nations.
The works of his hands are faithful and just;
    all his precepts are trustworthy;
they are established forever and ever,
    to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness.
He sent redemption to his people;
    he has commanded his covenant forever.
    Holy and awesome is his name!
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
    all those who practice it have a good understanding.
    His praise endures forever!

Valentine's Day Short Story #5

*All stories are fiction for friends. Any resemblance to people, places, or events are purely coincidental!
Angie's Adventures

1st Corinthians 13:8a

Love never ends.

Angie pulled her hair back into a thick pony tail. She bundled up in her snow coat and snow pants, ready for a hike in the woods. The cold February air chilled her face when she headed out the door of her house. The cold air was exhilarating. She started along with some singing, the snow crunching under her feet. She hiked through the woods, excited to be out and walking. As she was hiking along, her thoughts drifted to the past year.

The previous year had been an adventure. She had gone to a party with some friends. There she met a young man named Zeke Olsen. She was getting a cup of juice when someone bumped into her. She tipped, and with her went the juice. All over her white kaprees. As all this was happening, she fell to the floor. "I'm so sorry!" Zeke said in shock. Angie, still on the floor, stared at her white kaprees and burst out laughing. "It's alright!" she said between giggles. Zeke reached out his hand and helped her up. She stood, and laughed, "I guess I'll have to tie-dye these the rest of the way!" Zeke laughed along with her. "How about we join the soccer game? That'll help!" he said with a wink.

They joined the soccer game, and with the fun, the evening passed too quickly. The next month was filled with BBQ's and picnics of their mutual friends, so they had fun getting to know one another, and everything was full of teasing. One of the picnics was by the lake. They rented a canoe and life jackets, then headed out on the lake. The sun was shining bright, so the entire lake glittered like diamonds. As Angie paddled along, Zeke was staring at her. "What?" she said, feeling his stare. "I'm not sure what's more beautiful, you or the lake of diamonds!" he said with a sweet smile. She blushed slightly and continued to paddle.

That fall they went for a hike up a mountain. They accidentally chose the hottest day that summer for the hike. Unfortunately it was the only day available for them to both hike up the mountain. So they went anyways. Zeke and Angie made it to the top, sweaty and hot, but they made it. They sat down at the top and surveyed their surroundings. The view was breathtaking. Zeke, carrying the backpack with water, gave a water bottle to Angie. "If it wasn't so hot up here," he said with a wink, "I'd put my arm around you." Angie smiled, "It's a good thing you aren't doing that, I melting as it is."

The hike down wasn't as good as the hike up. Near the bottom of the mountain, Angie slipped, tripped, and fell. Her left leg was injured, bloody and broken. Zeke carefully carried her with extreme caution down the rest of the way. Angie was embarrassed, but with all the pain, she couldn't care less. He drove her to the hospital where she was bandaged. Angie, absolutely exhausted from the ordeal, fell asleep in the car on the way home. So Zeke carried her into the house, where her anxious parents greeted her.

Zeke knew he was falling in love with her, but he couldn't bring himself to say that to her. He tried many times during the couple weeks she rested. She did light work around the house the next couple weeks after that, but even then, Zeke couldn't bring himself to say how much he cared for and admired her. Angie knew he had something to tell her, but he never did. She too, found herself falling in love. He was kind and compassionate, his loving actions never ending. She did her best to return the love, by making special treats for him, or encouraging him.

By the time Angie was almost back to normal, Zeke had to leave for the holidays to stay with his family. It was bittersweet to say goodbye, for a while, to a man she had met only months before. But those months were the best she had ever had. He was gone all during Christmas, but he did call a couple times, to wish her a Merry Christmas and chat with her. She kept busy during Christmas so she wouldn't notice how much she missed him.

When the holidays were over, Zeke came home to a great big hug. "Angie!" he said with a loving shout of exclamation. Angie was waiting at his house with a home-cooked meal and a Christmas present. He also had a present, for Angie. They sat down to a delicious dinner, catching up on news of friends and each others families. They talked long into the night, then realized they hadn't exchanged presents. Zeke opened his present first, a knit scarf made by Angie. Then Angie opened hers, it was a scarf, knit by Zeke's mother. They laughed.

The past couple months had flown as they went out with each other, shopping or just out for coffee. Yesterday, it had been Valentine's day. They had agreed to meet up for a lunch at Panera. Angie arrived first. She waited at a table by the fireplace. Soon Zeke arrived, and they ordered lunch. They had a pleasant lunch, eating, laughing, and chatting. After lunch, they decided to take a walk. Halfway through the walk, Zeke finally got the courage to say how much he loved Angie. So he did. "Angie, I love you. I promise my love for you will never end. Will you marry me? Now I don't have a ring, but will you please marry me?" 

Angie smiled at the recollection. She had said yes. She continued her way through the snow and looped her way back towards her house. She could hardly wait to see what adventures were in store for the coming year.

Valentine's Day Short Story #4

*All stories are fiction for friends. Any resemblance to people, places, or events are purely coincidental!

A Truce Between 2 Hearts

1 Corinthians 13:7

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

January 6th, What a joyous day! The 12th day of Christmas! Sir Matthias raised a toast at supper for the wonderful year ahead of us! He and my father, the King, have been trying to keep the spirits of the people high, as there are rumors of war with the neighboring kingdom. Enough dreariness, lets talk about the celebrations! We danced, sang, played games, exchanged presents, and watched pantomimes. There were goodies of various kinds, ices, and cakes! Oh, so many wonderful things happened today! I hope the rumors of war are only a rumor. 

January 10th, With the season of Christmas behind us, the dreary daily duties have returned. "Charlotte do this." and "Charlotte do that." are the only things I hear. Studying upon studying makes one quite bored. As a princess, I must do these things, but now as I am getting older, I should start focusing on other things instead of studying. Someday I'll be queen, and there are so many things I haven't learned yet! Alas, my tutors think I've learned all those things. I must speak to Papa about this soon. With the rumors of war, I don't think it will be any time soon though!

January 15th, War has been declared. From my ability to eavesdrop without being seen, I've discovered that it is over something as simple as the border of our kingdom and the border of their kingdom. Reading through my books has led me to believe that there has been a dispute for the border for the past 2 centuries! I suppose the war will break up the dreariness of the winter, but it's not the wisest time to fight with the cold and snow. Blizzards can occur any time without warning. My greatest fear is for the safety of Papa, and my betrothed, Sir Matthias. 

January 19th, Papa and Matthias are off to war with all the troops they could muster at such a short notice. The past few days have been filled with bitter cold winds, and blizzards so fierce that one could get lost. My days are spent with worry. Thankfully Papa said I needn't study during this time, so I have been collecting bandages and blankets. I've also made sure that there are food wagons being sent to the camp where Papa is, every day. It wouldn't do to have them starve. At least they can have fresh bread, cheese, meat, and apples. 

January 21st, From what I've heard, this has been a messy battle. No one wants to surrender to the other, and no one wants to call a truce. I'm trying my best to bear my duties cheerfully out of love for my Papa, but sometimes it's just difficult. I'm also having a hard believing that Sir Matthias is safe. Papa too, for that matter. I'm trying to keep my hope up so we can endure these things. I'm concerned about the peasants down near the village by the fighting. I'm praying that all the young children and the old folk are safe, sound and well.

January 25th, What trial they are facing! They've called counsel many times, yet they haven't been able to call a truce. It breaks my heart the numbers of soldiers that have died so far, whether on our side, or theirs. It's all over a simple border, the easiest thing to do, would be to look up the maps dating back to when the trouble first started. Wait, that would be a good idea! I must pen a letter to Sir Matthias and Papa at once! I hope that this will help! I must find out when the next wagon is headed to Papa's camp. Maybe I should take it myself. We'll see.

January 31st, I am at Papa's camp. Sir Matthias was impressed with my thoughts on the matter, so I am now awaiting for the counsel tomorrow afternoon. Papa sent for the maps and my things. So here I wait, amongst soldiers, tents, and weapons. Actually, I'm sitting next to Papa's tent. His is the most "fitting for a young lady". I'm surprised he hasn't sent me back to the palace, as I am his only heir. As there is a blizzard approaching, I must take cover.

February 3rd, I presented the maps, and King Oscar II of the neighboring kingdom is conferring with his counsel. Thankfully the soldiers haven't been fighting as often. Most of it was plundering each others camps, but still there is no need. Papa has been most gracious over the matter, and it's been a learning experience for both of us. I've learned some things about being a ruler that I never knew from books and tutors. I've also learnt more about Sir Matthias. He has a heart of gold, and he's as gentle as a lamb.

February 8th, The counsel of King Oscar II has finally made up their minds. We have declared a truce. Papa and King Oscar II shook hands on the matter to seal the deal. The original border has been instilled. I wish I could thank the thoughtful wise men who kept these maps in the royal library. If it weren't for them, we wouldn't be able to have settled this so simply. Sir Matthias was so happy that he came bounding into camp on his white horse, and stopped right in front of me. He jumped off his horse and gave me a kiss. Everyone has been celebrating!

February 14th, Sir Matthias asked Papa's blessing for us to be married on the day of my last entry. So today, St. Valentine's day, we shall be joined as one in holy matrimony. My ladies in waiting are pressing my dress for my wedding. King Oscar II has come with his court to celebrate with ours. Many of the people from the village are also invited to come and celebrate. This is more than a celebration of a wedding, this is a celebration of kingdoms choosing peace! What a joyous day this is! 

Valentine's Day Short Story #3

*All stories are fiction for friends. Any resemblance to people, places, or events are purely coincidental!

Hunting and Fishing Friends Forever

1 Corinthians 13:6

It does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.

 Faith slung her quiver of arrows over her shoulder. She grabbed her bow, her sack of lunch, and disappeared into the forest, silent as a mouse. He long blond hair flew in the breeze as she slipped through the forest. She pranced over streams, and skipped around logs, as she headed to Luke's house. Luke and Faith had been friends for years. Luke had promised to go hunting with her that day. They often went on hunting trips together. Luke was able to hit an apple, 100 paces away, but Faith often was able to split his arrow. They often were competitive, trying to outdo each other with many contests they held between themselves. Most of them were trivial things like how many squirrels could they catch in an hour. 

When Faith reached Luke's house, she knocked on the door. And knocked again. She called his name several times, but he didn't answer. She knocked again. Finally she opened the door to his house. No one was inside, so she sorrowfully headed off by herself into the deep thicket. She was quite successful that day, she bagged a pheasant and 2 rabbits. With her arrows on her back, and her delicious meat, she headed home to make some stew. 

"Faith!" cried a voice behind her, "I'm sorry, I completely forgot it was our hunting day!" Faith turned around to see Luke, standing on a log, a few yards behind her. "Hello Luke." said Faith, then she turned on her heel and headed on. "Wait!" he cried as he ran to catch up with her, "Is that all you're going to say?" "Aye!" she said, and she continued on. He finally caught up to her and stopped right in front of her. "Is something wrong?" he asked as he put his hand on her shoulder. "I'm just disappointed in the fact we weren't able to go hunting today." "I'm truly sorry." said Luke. "I had some business to attend to in the village." Faith stared at him, "It doesn't matter. I was able to catch 2 rabbits and a pheasant." and then she disappeared into the trees.

Faith slipped through the trees and headed into her cozy home. She quickly started her fire so she would be able to roast some rabbit for her stew. While her rabbit roasted, Faith went to her garden to pull some weeds, and pick some veggies. Meanwhile, Luke was at his house, upset with the fact he had broken his promise to Faith. He felt as if she was rejoicing the fact he had forgotten, boasting at what she had caught. He sorrowfully sighed, and grabbed a fishing pole. Luke headed down to the creek, where he sat and thought.

Early the next day, as the fog was rising, and the woods still wet with dew, Luke headed off to Faith's house. He knew she would be up early, busy with her garden or taking care of her hunting equipment. He took his bow and arrows, his fishing poled, and a box of worms. His grandfather had carved the box, Luke still remembered the day his Grandfather finished it. His Grandfather gave it to him, just before he died. His Grandfather was a man who loved to hunt, fish, and garden. He taught many things to Faith and Luke. Faith & Luke respected and treasured the things he had taught them. 

Faith was in her garden, weeding her rows of snap peas and green beans before the heat of the day, when she heard Luke coming towards her. She was surprised to see him so early in the morning. "Faith?" said his soft voice, highlighted by the rising sun. "Luke!" she said softly, her surprise in her voice. She started to stand, but he motioned her not to. He got on his knees next to her, and honestly told her about his thoughts from the previous day. She looked sad as she realized how she had acted. "I guess I was a bit standoffish." she said sadly, "I'm sorry." Luke gently raised her face with his finger. His smile grew as the warm sun started to dry up the wet dew.

"Would you give me the honor of going fishing with me?" he asked with a silly courtly voice. "I would love to." she replied majestically, she gave a quick curtsy, then giggled at the silliness. She ran into the house and grabbed her fishing pole. She braided her long blond hair into a thick braid to keep it out of the way so it wouldn't get snagged with a hook. Luke and Faith headed down to the creek. They sat down with their poles, putting the hooks on them. Luke pulled out the box his Grandfather made, and handed it to Faith.

Faith opened the box, to get the worms out, but was surprised at what she saw instead. An intricate brass ring with a tiny arrow on it greeted her. She turned with stutter to face, Luke and found him on his knee. "Will you marry me?" he said. She looked at him, "Is this why you went to town yesterday?" she asked curiously. "Yes." "I feel so stupid now, I was mad that you forgot we were going to go hunting, and instead you were buying me a ring to ask to marry me. Wait a second, did you just ask to marry me?" Luke nodded. "Hear me prattling on so, and I haven't even answered you!" she said with a laugh, "Yes! I would love to marry you!" 

"When?" he asked happily. "Valentine's day." she said. "But that's six months away!" he exclaimed. "Yes, but that's the perfect day." Faith said happily. "If you think it's the perfect day, than I think it's the perfect day." Luke replied. He pulled her close into a hug, counting the days until Valentine's day when they'd be joined together as man and wife, hunting and fishing friends forever.

Valentine's Day Short Story #2

 *All stories are fiction for friends. Any resemblance to people, places, or events are purely coincidental!

Wedding Planning

1 Corinthians 13:5b

It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful.

February 1st, Dear Diary, Being engaged makes me the happiest girl in the world! Travis and I shall start picking out colors, so we can pick out the ties for the groomsmen, dresses for the bridesmaids, and my wedding dress! I set up an date next week to go shopping. I think Selah and Sarah shall be coming along. I'm planning on asking them to be my bridesmaids. Oh, I love planning! I can't wait to start picking out flours and decorations!

February 2nd, Dear Diary, I'm trying to be irritable right now, but Travis had to work late tonight so he couldn't come over to discuss the color scheme. I'm absolutely certain he'll love the colors I picked out, sea foam green and turquoise. Plus other sea themed things like starfishes, sea shells, and fish. It would be so cute to have bowls of gold fish on the reception tables! I have to wait and see what Travis says though. It's so hard to wait!

February 3rd, Dear Diary, I saw Travis today, yet it completely slipped my mind to talk to him about the color scheme. After running errands, and babysitting kids, I'm ready for an early bedtime. I kinda wish I had an engagement ring to prove I'm engaged. Travis didn't have enough money to get one, so I must wait. 

February 4th, Dear Diary, I called Travis today, and we decided to get together tomorrow to discuss wedding plans. He was so sweet, he texted me today and said "You my dear Kelsie are more precious than gold!" I showed it to Selah and Sarah, and they said he is definitely a keeper. He is so sweet, kind, and ready to do anything for me, and I for him.

February 5th, Dear Diary, I am so furious with Travis right now. He doesn't like the color scheme I picked out for our wedding. I've been dreaming of a turquoise, sea foam, and sea themed wedding since I was a little girl. I don't know what to do. I should compromise but I'm too angry with him to do so at this moment. I am trying my hardest not to insist on my own way, but I'm failing miserably. Oh, what am I going to do? How can I face him after this argument? 

February 6th, Dear Diary, Travis called me a couple times, and texted a couple times. I ignored him. I don't feel like compromising right now. He's always picture his wedding with royal blue, and I am not too sure about that. It's just not like what I have dreamed of. Thankfully we already agreed on the style for my wedding dress. Tomorrow I'll be going out with Selah and Sarah to pick out my dress. I'm trying to feel excited, but I still feel blue. Royal blue to be exact.

February 7th, Dear Diary, I'm so excited! I've found the dress of my dreams! It is a soft white, with a dropped waist, and crystals all over the bodice, with a matching pattern on the hem. Travis will think I'm drop-dead gorgeous. Speaking of Travis, I finally got the gumption to call him back. We calmly discussed are thoughts on the matter. Thankfully he understood how I felt about the color scheme. 

February 8th, Dear Diary, I'm trying not to get resentful about this whole matter, but it is so hard. I did show Travis a picture of my dress, (without me in it), he loved it! We talked a little bit more today, but we still haven't reached a decision. I'm hoping we can settle on the color scheme before Valentine's day so we can have a wonderful day together. I think we are going to go out to dinner. I'm hoping we'll go for a drive afterwards, or maybe find a place to dance under the full moon. 

February 9th, Dear Diary, We finally had a chance to sit down and discuss this again. I think we will do a royal blue and turquoise mix. It's not what I've always dreamed, but I think it's a good compromise. We are still going with the sea shells and star fish, so I'm happy. Travis is happy to be getting his royal blue. I'm glad we were able to agree on this! 

February 10th, Dear Diary, How on earth am I going to pick out bridesmaid dresses? Selah and Sarah went shopping with me today, yet we couldn't find anything that would look right. Travis brought me a bouquet of flowers today. They were pink roses with baby's breath. Such a pretty combination! Which then reminded me of the wedding! I need to pick out flowers for that too!

February 11th, Dear Diary, Hydrangeas, blue and white! I think those would look pretty for my wedding! It seems like wedding planning is easier than I expected! In some ways, yes it's hard, but it's been pretty easy so far. I can't believe that there is almost exactly 3 months till May 10th, when I'll become Mrs. Travis McCaden. I feel like Travis has a surprise up his sleeve for Valentine's day, but I have yet to figure it out! I suppose I only have to wait a little bit longer. 

February 12th, Dear Diary, It's odd being engaged, yet not having a ring. I suppose it's not important, but I'd really like to be able to show it off! Selah and Sarah have been searching for dresses, and so have I. Some day we shall find the dresses, someday. I just hope that day comes soon! 

February 13th, Dear Diary, I wrote a Valentine to give to Travis tomorrow. I am so glad he's such a patient person, he never gets very irritated or resentful with me. He even offered to go for sea foam green instead of royal blue, but I said, "No, you can have your royal blue, I insist!" It seems so silly to think we argued over something so silly. Someday, it won't even matter, and that's okay!

February 14th, Dear Diary, Happy Valentine's day! Travis gave me, my engagement ring!!! I was so stunned! After he gave it to me, the valentine I made for him, paled in comparison! He truly is a special man! I'm am so excited to marry him in 3 months! For better, for worse, for royal blue or for sea green, he's one of a kind! We danced under the full moon, went out to dinner, and everything was a dream come true! 

Valentine's Day Short Story #1

For the next 5 days, I shall be writing 5 short stories based on 1st Corinthians 13:4-8a. It's rather cheesy, but it'll be kinda fun. :~)

*All stories are fiction for friends. Any resemblance to people, places, or events are purely coincidental!

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Lizzie and the Mailman

1st Corinthians 13:4-5a  

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude.

Lizzie sighed as she slouched on the couch. Christmas was over, the winter was grey, and it felt like Valentine's day was fast approaching. No one had ever given her a valentine. Sure it was silly to want one, but it was still rather sweet. She sat up a little straighter, and stared out the window at the falling snow. It had been falling, and falling, and falling. She was sick of snow and cold and winter. She quickly stopped her thoughts. "Do not complain." she scolded out loud, "You need to be patient. One of these days the snow will leave, and one of these days I will get a Valentine." She glanced out the window, and saw that the mailman had arrived. He was a new mailman, tall, young, and rather handsome. Her face grew red as he caught sight of her in the window. He waved, grinned, and put the mail in the mailbox. Over the next couple weeks, when ever the mailman came, he waved with a grin. 

One day, Lizzie was clearing off her car, when the mailman came. "Hello!" he called. "Hello!" replied Lizzie. "How are you, this fine day?" he asked as he put the mail in the mailbox. "Good!" she replied, "I'm off to run some errands, pick up some groceries, and run to Church for my Sunday school lesson." "What Church do you go to?" he asked. "The one on the corner of Main St and Violet Ln." she replied shyly. "I'll have to visit that one sometime!" he called as he started to leave, "I'm looking for a good Church right now." "You are welcome to come!" she called after him, kindly. After he had disappeared from view, Lizzie couldn't believe all that had happened. 

The following Sunday, she headed to Church with very low expectations. "He was just making small talk." she said to herself. Much to her surprise, he came into the sanctuary shortly after her. "Hello!" he said with a smile. "Hello!" she replied, quite surprised. "We haven't officially introduced ourselves." he said kindly, "My name is Jacob McCard." "I'm Lizzie Wick." she replied. "Nice to meet you!" he said cheerfully, and they shook hands. Lizzie's hand tingled so she held it behind her back to hide her nervousness. She introduced him to several of the young men at Church. She didn't know that it was making him envious to meet other young men that, from what he could see, obviously liked her. He did his best to refrain from showing it, for there really was no reason to become envious. "So what do you do for a living, Jacob?" asked a young man named Mark. "I'm a mailman!" he said, doing his best not to boast, for he was very proud of his job. "That's pretty neat!" added a young man named Rob. Suddenly, Lizzie looked at the time, she was almost late for her SS (which she taught). She excused herself as gracefully as possible and quickly left. The rest of the day went smoothly, Jacob sat with her and she showed him around the hymn book. Lizzie waved good bye as he left Church, and then she headed home herself. 

The next couple weeks passed the same, soon it was a week before Valentine's day. Lizzie was slowly finding that Jacob was a really nice guy. Jacob thought the same about Lizzie. One day, on an impulse, Lizzie left some warm chocolate chip cookies in the mailbox for him. Another day, a hot cup of coffee. Once Lizzie opened her mailbox and found a box of tea she had been dying to try. They were getting to know each other through the mailbox, and through Church. 

The Sunday before Valentine's day, dawned bright, clear and cold. Lizzie donned her red skirt, a black shirt and a black sweater. She headed to Church, ready to teach and ready to learn. At the door she was greeted by Jacob. "Ready for Valentine's day?" he said teasingly. "Yep!" she said, "I'm not expecting anything, so yes I'm ready." "Haven't you ever gotten a valentine?" he asked surprised. "Never." she said firmly. He looked thoughtful as she headed down the hall to her class. 

Every day that week, Lizzie found delicious chocolates in her mailbox. She smiled because she knew he was trying to make her feel better about not getting a valentine. Valentine's day arrived, and she saw him grin, wave and put the mail in her box. As soon as he had disappeared, she raced outside to see what was in there. She brought the mail in, and eagerly began to look through it. 4 bills, 3 pieces of junk mail, 2 catalogs, and a letter from her insurance company. She flopped on her couch dismally. Yet another year had gone by, and no valentines. The rest of the day moved as slow as a snail. With dinner time fast approaching, she headed to the kitchen to prepare a bite to eat. Just then, she heard a movement behind her. She whirled around to see a valentine being slipped through the old mail slot. She picked it up and read it. 

You are special, kind and sweet,

patient with everyone you meet.

You never envy, you never boast,

you've never been arrogant, or rude.

With these qualities so precious to me,

I ask you, dear one, will you be my valentine?

Lizzie opened the door, and there stood Jacob. She smiled, and gave him a great big hug. "Yes!" He hugged her back, then picked her up and spun her around. He took her out to dinner, and they continued to become good friends, with the hope that one day, they'd be best friends.

The End

I'm home!

Camping was a wonderful vacation! I was hoping to update more about our vacation fun but alas I was too busy. I shall post more about our fun as the week progresses. 

I did finish Algebra 1 on my vacation! Very happy! :~D

I also wrote a couple short stories and I'd like to share the best one. 

The Continuous Rain

By Moriah Peters

He stared out the window. The early morning rain fell long and hard. It had been raining like this for the past 2 weeks. The surrounding area was drenched. His farm and crops would be ruined if there wasn't any dry spells. A sigh filled his depressed spirit with a dose of weariness. He depended on his crop and if it didn't make it, he'd loose everything. His adoring wife walked in. Her perfume filled the room with lilacs and spring. She walked over and leaned her head on his shoulder. Her presence bought a comfort in his heart. No matter what happens he will always have her with him.

The morning seemed longer than any other morning. The rain was discouraging and emotionally wrecking his heart. The rain had been a blessing, but now it felt like a curse. It was depressing and dreary. He woefully went to work with a heavy heart.

That same afternoon, there was a small patch of sunlight. 2 minutes of sweet, blistering, gorgeous, sunshine. The sunshine lifted his spirits. His wife was in the middle of kneading a batch of dough when he grabbed her hand covered in dough into his calloused hand barn and they ran outside together and danced in the sunshine. He picked his wife up and twirled in the sunshine, laughter filling them. But as soon as the sunshine came, it left. It poured.

He sighed as he went back into the barn, after walking his wife to the door of the house. The rain had immediately drenched his clothes, soaking him to the bone. He mucked the stalls, and restocked the hay. Then he walked to the back of the barn to the tool bench. He looked at the wood that lay on it. It was rich with aroma and as strong as oak. He gently lifted the wood, examining it with an eagle eye. He sat down at the bench and began to work with it.

It was nearing supper time when he emerged from the barn. He had fed and milked the cows, checked the chicken coop, and worked with the wood. His wife greeted him with a smile as his came in, as before, soaked to the bone. She sent him upstairs he came back down she was ladling hot creamy potato soup out of the pot. The pot was a special pot, passed down through generations. It had seen many generations and many stews. He smiled at the thought, and then quickly the smile disappeared as he thought about the fact that it was part of the farm.

The supper was filling and delicious, warming him inside and out. He enjoyed chatting with his wife about this and that. He went out one last time to check the barn to make sure it was set for the night and he walked back to his home in the pouring rain. He dodged puddles as he walked through the farmyard.

He suddenly stopped, exactly halfway between the house and the barn. He looked up at the dark clouds and pouring rain. His thoughts whirled. They whirled as fast as he could piece them together. Falling to his knees, he poured his heart to God. His feelings, his worries, his family, his wife, his farm, his house, and the old family cooking pot. As he got up, the rain was falling softer. When he got to the door of his house, where his lovely wife awaited with a towel to dry him off, he stopped. Turning around, he and his wife stared in astonishment. The clouds were breaking up, the rain was ending and the sun was just about to set. He looked at the sun set as a brilliant rainbow spread across the sky. 

He turned to face his wife, their faces mirrored the same smile: a smile of peace and hope. God was always in control. He leaned down and gave his wife a kiss. Then they ran outside laughing, dancing, and chasing each other with the knowledge God is still taking care of them. As they neared the barn he pulled his wife inside and showed her the piece of wood. With it he carved a small sign that said, “God's the farmer, I'm just a guest.”

The End