Living in Shadows

Before anything else is said, I must admit, I used to live in a shadow cast by the world. Our world tells us lies that are wrapped in a pretty package labeled "truth". Crafty, isn't it? To fellow followers of Christ: Why do you hold back? Why don't you take hold of the gifts that you have been blessed with and run with them? We have been put on this earth for a reason, and too often we waste our time thinking that we are being humble, selfless, and responsible. We are meant to be disciples of Christ so that His kingdom would expand, but we are living in a shadow. The enemy wants us to think we are bragging and boasting about our gifts when we use them; this blocks the light from casting over this shadow. We are living in a shadow of fear, and it is often because we idolize what other people think of us. This is quite a deadly shadow to live in.

People often ask why I have a blog, and I answer by saying that I enjoy being the author and creator of it. I used to fear that it would appear too self-promoting to others, so I didn't do anything for a while. After the creation of this blog, I have gotten multiple messages or even comments about how something I had wrote had meant something to someone, or had an impact on them in some way. That alone shows that my purpose for the creation of this blog in the first place has been successfully fulfilled. God works through his people in different ways, and He uses resources here on earth to do so.

In the bible, there was a man named Moses whom God called upon specifically to go and help His people. Can you even imagine - out of everyone in the world - God choosing you to save His people? To free them and take them to the plentiful land flowing with milk and honey?  God used Moses here on this earth, just as He is using me and you.

What is keeping you in this shadow? Step into the light my friend, I dare you.

"If we were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." Galatians 1:10

Sincerely,

Relieved Ashley.
xx

(Thank you Jennie Allen for the inspiration.)

Monday, July 20 2015

Well, today is a very bitter-sweet day to say the least. I normally don't wake up at the crack of dawn, and anyone who knows my sister, Alyssa, knows that she never wakes up anytime before noon. However, she had to be awake today at 6 AM because... it was her first day of high school!!! She is attending Hamilton High School for the next four years of her life and I could not be more excited/nervous/scared/happy for her. My hopes are very high, as I know she has the brightest future ahead. My prayer is that she won't get eaten alive too bad her freshman year, and that she continues to walk a straight and steady path that shines God's light for those who live in darkness to see. Alyssa if you're reading this, please know: I am ready to throw down with anyone who means harm to you. (aka boys, STAY AWAY!!!!)


Not only is Alyssa starting a new chapter in life today; Mia is entering Santan Jr. High today as well. She didn't have to wake up as early this morning (lucky her), because her school doesn't start until 9 AM. My prayer for Mia is that she will make genuine friends who will help her through the ups and downs that these next couple of years will hold. Mia if you're reading this, please know: I am ready to throw down with anyone who means harm to you. (aka girls, BE NICE!!!!)


Madison is still attending Fulton Elementary, but this is her first year without a sibling at the same school. My prayer for her is that 3rd grade year will be a blast, and I also really pray that she will stay out of trouble for the most part (we need a miracle for that to happen)...

Where did the time go?? My little sisters are all growing up incredibly fast. A pause button for life would be really cool right about now...

Sincerely,

Lonely, Home Alone Sister.
xx

Newport, CA

Every summer, the McPoland family takes a road trip to Newport, California to visit our "uncle", Paul. Paul is the most generous man I have ever met in my life. He opens his home to our family of six to stay at for vacation, and takes us on adventures every day that we do stay. This trip, we got to go paddle boarding, rent a boat, ride the ferry and amusement park rides, and experience some of his favorite food restaurants on the peninsula. It was seriously the best family vacation we have gone on yet.

I know I haven't written a post in over a month... I have been a busy girl!

Update on life:

I have officially registered to take classes at Chandler Gilbert Community College. Eeeep! I start on my 18th birthday (August 25). Talk about real life hitting me fast.
I have been working pretty much full time at The Coffee Shop on Ray and Higley... visit me!!! We have bomb cupcakes and I make a pretty good latte.
I am going up to Washington to visit family for a few days soon... I also get to bring my bff with me so that's amazzeee. Can't wait to post about that trip.

Hope you all are enjoying your summer!

Sincerely,

Girl Who Misses The Beach.
xx