Big News

If you haven't heard it from the horse's mouth, the verdict is in and I will be moving to Lubbock, Texas this fall to work for RUF at Texas Tech. I am extremely excited and I have plenty to say about it. Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming events that go along with raising support, moving and meeting students. Please feel free to offer words of advice or excitement. And if you don't think I have your address, please send it my way. Thanks for all of your prayers, I covet them now more than ever.

Memphis

Sheffields
Markhams
Simonsons and Norah
Brent and Doug
Edwards

So far we have had a fantastic time here in Memphis. These people really know how to do it up. Swanky parties, lots of food, buses to take the wedding party around, and sweet digs to stay in. However, it has been the time with friends that has meant the most to me. Meeting and being around all the women in my best guy friends lives is such a fun thing to experience. "Good job boys!" I'm so proud of them and the brides that they have chosen. I'm pleased to be a part of this community and have the privilege to get to call them my friends.

It is strange being the only single girl here. Not because I feel left out or that I don't fit in, but to see how each of these people are now "one" with another person. I was talking with Russ's Katherine about this scenario and how much she really has become more dependent on him for support. I can totally see how this would be true, even for the most independent of women. Two really are becoming one, you look to each other for comfort and support in all instances. While for twenty some odd years it was you and you only, but in the matter of moments you are not your own. Now, I obviously don't completely understand this phenomenon, (I'm not married) but I can imagine it totally rocks your world. Can't wait.

So... we are having a great time. Hewey, the Moyn and myself ate on Beale Street last night, which was fantastic. We had drinks in the nicest estate I have ever been to ever. I met another guy that is going to be an intern next year. We saw Graceland, see further posts for more detail. And now we are waiting for the big event. Wish you all were here!

Graceland or bust!

BUST. Total bust. I don't know what all the hype is about. It really was rediculous. Unfortunately we bought into the hype and even got suckered into paying six dollars to park, for 20 minutes, essentially in the Graceland Giftshop parking lot. (thanks Doug, that was really sweet of you to take all of us girls) If I have learned anything from this experience, it would be : Don't buy into the hype.

You decide for yourself. Click the link above to get a taste.

The Beauty of the Gospel

"Be anxious about nothing, but in everything, with prayer and petition, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

-Philippians 4:6-7

The following is an excerpt from an email written by the RUF intern at New Mexico State, addressed to friends and family after the death of her fiance.

"I am at my parents house in Tyler now, and this morning I walked back into the woods to the lake where Paul proposed to me. I was flooded with memories of that day and the day we took our engagement pictures back there. It was great to go back there and remember all that, even though it was painful. It was also great to soak in the beauty of the natural creation around me. When Paul proposed there in November the leaves were changing colors and it was very beautiful. The next time I was there was in December when we took our engagement pictures. Now with the beginning of spring I noticed so much new life out there. The forest was a beautiful green, the dogwood trees were blooming with beautiful flowers, and there were animals and insects all around. I was struck by the amount of life surrounding me. It reminded me of the new life found in Christ through his death and resurrection, and the presence of life gave me so much hope (all this nature talk may be weird to some of you, but Paul always called me his little hippy-outdoorsy girl, so I think he would appreciate it).

Throughout this time of grief, there has been a steady peace within. I know this is not due to my own strength or will to move on. I can only describe it as "the peace that passes all understanding," that is spoken of in Philippians 4:6-7. Even in our darkest hour, God equips us with this peace, giving us the hope to move on."

Thank you Chelsea, for sharing the gospel with us in such a powerful and real way.

To listen the funeral Paul Stephenson you can find it on www.fpcjackson.org