"Don't you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadow-boxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others, I myself might be disqualified."

~ 1 Cor. 9:24-27 (NLT)

I came across these verses the other day while we were having Bible Study at our house. We are going through a book, and are focusing on 1 Corinthians. It has proven to be a wonderful study, and I find that I learn something every single time! It's a huge blessing.

I know I've said this like 100 times before, but WOW am I glad for such a wonderful church family! If you aren't part of one...you really don't know what you are missing, because it's pretty fantastic.

Did you know that my pastor called me on my birthday!? It was the best part of my day! He called and just lifted me up with a tremendous amount of encouragement. He stressed to me that it is never a bad idea to call the church and ask them to pray for us, or with us, even though we have done that before. Rob and I have met with the elders and have been prayed over as well as anointed with oil by them. It was such a wonderful experience.

In other news - Isaiah has been letting me sleep in! Well..til like 7:30. But that's WAY better than 5:30/6:00!!! WOO-HOO