Good morning! I hope you all enjoyed a wonderful weekend! Yesterday I spent the day enjoying the cool breezes and sunshine around the San Diego Harbor on a bike ride with my family. It was a gorgeous day, and we saw so many people out in their sailboats in the harbor enjoying the day like us. I treasure days like that when each and every one of our kids share the same feeling as us, and say, "That was a GOOD day!"
Well, I want to share new RAK with all of you today! I always enjoy giving things away because it really makes me happy to share these with you!
There's a full paper pack of Brenda Walton papers from K & Company, a Stampin' Up stamp set, a package of Making Memories double sided sticker letters (great for glitter and flocking), a vial of red glitter, an album cover set from Teresa Collins, some tags, rubons, die cut paper mats, and coordinating Prima flowers (plus a whole box of extra Prima flowers!).
I usually post my Frebbie Friday RAK's on the first Friday of the month, but there's a reason why this is early. I have to confess that the beginning of my weekend (which I usually consider begins on Friday evening when my husband steps into our home after work...LOL!) wasn't what I expected. Thankfully, with a few prayers and a change of perspective, I'm feeling a lot better!
Let me explain...and please forgive me if you think that some of this is TMI (too much information). :) I have shared on my blog that there has been quite a lot of changes that I've been working through this past month especially in regards to my health. I've been working with my doctor to try and reduce and/or get off of my blood pressure medications that I've been taking for over eight years (since our youngest son's birth). Thankfully, since my last doctor's appointment on the 15th, I've been able to discontinue one of my prescriptions. I was taking two medicines before I made many dietary and lifestyle changes which have helped to greatly improve my blood pressure.
However, during the same visit, my doctor noticed a couple of lumps in my left that were questionable. She asked whether they hurt at all, but I hadn't even noticed any pain (I'm so bad...I hadn't done a self-exam in months!). She said it was probably nothing to worry about, but she did want me to go have a mammogram taken since I hadn't done so yet since I turned 40 (yeah, she said she got me and said I couldn't get away with it again this year! LOL!)
Well, last Saturday (the 20th) I went to get the mammogram done. Then, on Monday, the 22nd, I got a call from the radiologist requesting that I come in again for more x-rays. I went in on Tuesday morning to have them done, and was assured by the technician that it was common for them to need additional images since it was my first set of mammograms. However, last Friday I got a notice in the mail requesting that I come in again this week for more, and needless to say, I've been concerned about it even more. So many things went through my mind, and I have to confess that I have been more than worried.
However, I am thankful to have such a supportive husband who has helped me keep from worrying too much by reminding me of God's grace and mercy in the past. I know that I need to hold fast to my faith in God to get me through the troubling thoughts that come up now and then when I think about this. Lord willing, it really isn't something to be concerned about, but if it turns out to be more, then we will remember to keep our trust in the Lord knowing that my life is always in His hands.
One of the thoughts I had was that maybe there was some mis-communication in the radiology department, and that the notice was a duplicate request for the second set of images that I already had taken last Tuesday. I called the radiology department on Friday evening to find out whether this may be the case, but all they could tell me was that I needed to call my doctor on Monday to find out whether she received the results and confirm whether I need to go have more x-rays taken. That information really didn't help me...sigh.
The funny thing about all this happening at that time was that I had already been praying about what I would do with my days this summer. We don't usually go on vacation during the summertime (we take them in the spring), and I had already felt that the Lord was asking me to spend more time on relationships...my relationship with Him, my husband, and our children...just appreciating and enjoying them. I had already decided to start packing my scrapbooking and card making supplies to have them put into storage at the scrap retreat house that morning. Then the notice came in the mail late that afternoon...what timing! :) If and when the desire to create arises, I'll simply have to make a trip out to the retreat house on a weekend when it's not being used!
Anyway, after lots of support and encouragement from the family members and friends that I shared this with this past weekend, I felt so much better! The Lord truly knows who to send my way with the perfect words and Scriptures to remind me of His wonderful mercy and grace!
Stacey, the owner of Shimmerz, shared this particular verse with me, which happens to be a favorite of hers, and it brought tears to my eyes:
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord,
plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11
There were even a couple of sermons on the radio that greatly encouraged me during moments when fear and doubt began to creep into my thoughts again. I had so much peace that I really did enjoy the weekend with my family! What a blessing!
Thank you for taking the time to read all this...now you know what I've been up to, and why I've decided to posted my RAK early (and called it a June RAK instead of July).
All I ask is that you post a comment on today's post and your name will be added to the drawing for the RAK. You will have until this Sunday, July 5th, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time to leave a comment. I will post the RAK winner on Monday, July 6th.
Have a great week, everyone! :)
Edited to add:
I just found out today that my name happens to be among the Top 20 for the Paper Crafts Gallery Idol contest! Whoooowee! What a wonderful blessing and honor! Funny how things happen, eh? LOL! ;-D
I suppose my paper crafting supplies will be out for another week for this event...LOL! Thanks to the Paper Crafts judges for the opportunity to create for just a little while longer (and perhaps get my mind off of having to wait another week for my results and to know whether I actually need another set of images taken since my doctor happens to be away on vacation this week! Eeek! :-D ).
Thank you for sharing that story. I hope everything turns out ok for you. I have you in my thoughts. :)
Posted by: Christina | June 29, 2009 at 11:51 AM
I agree with Stacey and your husband, Go to the GOOD BOOK for reassurance and comfort. It also says that woory is not of God. When you find yourself feeling worried and discouraged know that it's the devil creeping in and BLAST him with quiet time with God and worship music pouring in. Sing loud, sing low but SING from your heart. Have a BLESSED day, ms,cheryl
Posted by: cheryl yelverton | June 29, 2009 at 11:57 AM
Life involves passions, faith, and courage. Wishing you all of these and a happy ending to your story.
Posted by: Lynda | June 29, 2009 at 12:41 PM
Thanks so much for sharing your story.
I pray that everything will turn out fine for you and your family!
It's just so amazing of you that even in times where you are troubled you don't forget to give away things to others. I appreciate it a lot!
Everything will be ok.
Hugs Katrin
Posted by: Katrin | June 29, 2009 at 12:43 PM
Lol!! Christine, you should have my email now, but guess what? It loaded fine this time, and here I am claiming my RAK entry, please!! (You know the rest.) ;o)
There is a scripture that talks about us stepping on snakes and scorpions, and drinking poison unscathed, but I can't find it right now. The other one that comes to mind is Romans 8:28.
Big hugs and blessings to you..
Christine xxxx
Posted by: Craftling | June 29, 2009 at 12:51 PM
Christine, I'm sorry to hear of your distress. I've been in the same situation. Thankfully, my lump was benign and I just have mammograms yearly to confirm no growth. His word says not to be anxious and worrying about things. If it is nothing to worry about, you have worried for nothing. If it is something to be concerned with, your worry will not change it. Only God can do that and he knows your situation. He'll do what's best for his plan. Know that you are in my prayers.
Posted by: Cathy Green | June 29, 2009 at 01:55 PM
Really hope you get news that puts your mind to rest soon. My thoughts and prayers are with you. So kind & considerate of you to hold the RAK when you've got a lot on your mind. Take care :)
Posted by: Lynn | June 29, 2009 at 02:51 PM
Thanks so much for sharing this with us Christine. You are in my thoughts!
I saw your name up on the Paper Crafts blog earlier as part of the top 20. COngratulations!
Posted by: Tracey | June 29, 2009 at 03:55 PM
I've been there with the whole repeat mammogram thing. It all turned out okay for me, but the waiting can be a bit worrisome. God's timing is always perfect. I am so happy for you for the PaperCrafts recognition. Your work is very good :)
Posted by: June Houck | June 29, 2009 at 04:51 PM
Christine - stay positive, I believe everything happens for a reason.
Congratulations on making the top 20 with PaperCrafts!
Sandra
Posted by: sandra | June 29, 2009 at 05:15 PM
Oh Christine...thank you for sharing your heart. I will be praying. For you, your emotions and for you to fully trust the One who created you and has a purpose for your life and all that you do- especially in times such as these. Congratulations for making it to the top 20! That is awesome news!
Posted by: Krista | June 29, 2009 at 06:07 PM
Congratulations on making the top 20. Your card is wonderful. Hope all ends up well with your health.
Posted by: Hope | June 29, 2009 at 06:13 PM
Aww that is definitely not TMI, and I will keep you in my prayers! Waiting on the Lord is not always easy, but always worth the wait! And congrats on the top 20!! so wonderful :D
God bless!!
Posted by: SMK | June 29, 2009 at 06:14 PM
You are in my prayers!
And congrats on the great news, just a sign of things to come for you!
Posted by: Liza | June 29, 2009 at 07:12 PM
Sounds like your faith and your family are helping you through this unsure time in your life. Please know that we're also thinking of you and wishing you all the best. As my Mom always tells me, things always seem to work out for the best. Take Care!
Posted by: ShawninAZ | June 29, 2009 at 07:19 PM
Thanks for a chance at a great RAK.
I will keep you in my prayers for a positive result to all the tests!!
Posted by: Renee | June 29, 2009 at 07:30 PM
Congratulations on the top 20! I'll be sending you positive thoughts! And thanks for such for offering up such a great RAK.
Posted by: Rosanne | June 29, 2009 at 07:43 PM
I am sure everything will be okay. All we need is love and hope.
Posted by: Toni | June 29, 2009 at 07:57 PM
I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Never too much info... Your virtual friends are always out here to listen & support. {{hugs}}
Congrats on PC Gallery Idol, fabulous card...very excited for you!!
Posted by: Michelle | June 29, 2009 at 09:13 PM
Be optimistic! Don't forget how good God has been to you and how many blessings you have. My hubby is just like yours - he keeps me positive and reminds me of God's goodness. I tend to worry like you. Give it all to God and you will feel so much better! Go to your private place and talk with him...Cry out to him. He will hear you! Thanks for the RAK opportunity!
Posted by: Monica | June 29, 2009 at 09:17 PM
I am so glad you had a great weekend with your family.. I hope all goes well with the results.. I will be sending my prayers to you as well.
Posted by: Tina Mayo | June 30, 2009 at 01:10 AM
congratulations on making it to the top 20, i must say i wasn't surprised. the only surprise is why you didn't join before. i do hope the results will bring good news and glad to know this brought you closer to your family and God. :)
Posted by: jeanie nieva | June 30, 2009 at 01:15 AM
Best Wishes Christine....you'll be in my prayers. Thanks for the opportunity to win:-) Take care of you and enjoy the break from crafting and the time with loved ones.xL
Posted by: Linda | June 30, 2009 at 04:15 AM
Christine, take care of yourself and I pray that everything comes out great for you. Congratulations on making the top 20! How awesome.
Linda Peterson
Posted by: Linda Peterson | June 30, 2009 at 04:43 AM
My favorite verse is Proverbs 3:5-6! Easier said than done to trust in the Lord with all your heart - sometimes we trust Him with some of our heart and sometimes even most - but I think striving for that trust is what He wants for us. Another verse you might want to look up is Matthew 6:34 you will be farmiliar with it, but to me when I look it up and see it there written because God loves ME makes all the difference! And isn't great to know random people out here in blog world pray for you!! God is Great!! Congrats on the Idol contest news! Keeping busy always helps me too :) I am turning 40 next Wednesday so I just had to go through the mammogram thing and WOW that was traumatic enough even without the worry!! Have a great week.
Posted by: Rona | June 30, 2009 at 04:49 AM