tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74430469090704973352024-03-13T10:15:39.143-05:00Julianna MorletJulianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comBlogger671125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-20690862117279594912016-02-24T18:41:00.000-06:002016-02-24T18:41:20.666-06:00God's Telling You to Be Brave<i>This is probably one of my favorite posts, because it reminds me of a time of courage. We did crazy things haha and it's fun to remember where God's been faithful. </i><br />
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GT4n-eiHvO8/Vs5NcSa_enI/AAAAAAAAGvA/MTNVILC4WbY/s1600/photo-1430329429612-babb42f88673.jpg" /><br />
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Bravery isn't knowing all the answers. </b><b style="letter-spacing: 0px;">It's standing on the promises we have from God, knowing HE has all the answers and He loves us very much. </b><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">(<i><a href="https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Bravery+is+standing+on+the+promises+of+God+knowing+He+has+all+the+answers+and+loves+us+very+much.+@juliannamorlet" target="_blank">Tweet that!</a></i>)</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="color: #232323; min-height: 14px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i></i></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A retreat was what I needed to clear my head and start fresh. Six weeks away from <b><a href="http://becominggirlsconference.org/" target="_blank">a conference</a></b> many had poured blood, sweat and tears into and I was still wracking my brain and Bible for a specific and timely word from God.</span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We trekked upstate and a little to the east, arriving at the beautiful Lake Tahoe. The next day we drove around the lake, wide and vast and still. "<i>What do you want me to tell them,"</i> I asked of God. "<i>There are 400 girls coming to <b><a href="http://becominggirlsconference.org/" target="_blank">the conference</a></b> hear from you and I don't know what to tell them." </i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At that moment and for the next 2 hours, my mind flooded with memories and stories, verses and quotes that my life was being built upon. Middle school, high school, college and a tiny bit of marriage was the only life experience I possessed, but somehow I knew it was enough. </span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I couldn't grab my iPhone quick enough. Typing on those little buttons like a mad woman, I knew the Holy Spirit was reminding me of things that would connect with the hearts and experiences of those girls. </span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I cried with awe. <i>Oh how He loves us.</i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I wept with overwhelm. <i>Oh how He's shaping us.</i> </span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #232323; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">By the time we'd wrapped around the bend, I had something to say. It wasn't my message, but I was living it. It wasn't my design but I was wearing it. It wasn't my idea, but it was my hope to give. </span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is what He said:</span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<i style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tell them I love them.</span></i></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tell them to love me with everything in them.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tell them My love does not depend on theirs.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tell them to not be afraid.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tell them the world needs to hear their story. </span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tell them they are precious to me.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tell them I see them where they are.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tell them I will meet them there. </span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tell them My grace is deep enough to cover their hidden regrets and it is wide enough to cover their future mistakes. </span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tell them it is time to awake. To be fully awake.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tell them to be courageous.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tell them, to be brave. </span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today I pass on this message to you. <a href="https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Whoever+you+need+to+be+today,+whatever+you+need+to+do,+be+awake,+be+courageous,+be+brave.+@juliannamorlet" target="_blank">Whoever you need to be today, whatever you need to do, be awake, be courageous, <b>be brave</b>. </a> <i>(Click to tweet that!)</i></span></span></div>
Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-77688693243358574932016-02-14T06:00:00.000-06:002016-02-14T06:00:02.177-06:00Our Love is a Choice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5lm9ahoUJ2Q/Uv3RcCeW4jI/AAAAAAAAFY0/mCP4WQES8Vg/s1600/loveisachoice.png" /></span></div>
<a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2013/02/sometimes-love-is.html"><b>Sometimes love is</b></a> sweeping the hair from her face. <br />
Sometimes love is picking up his favorite coffee on the way home.<br />
<br />
Sometimes love is romp session sexy.<br />
Sometimes love is chicken noodle soup sweet. <br />
<br />
Sometimes love is watching her favorite show for hours on end.<br />
Sometimes love is letting him catch you check him out. <br />
<br />
Sometimes love is getting up with the babe so she can sleep.<br />
Sometimes love is doing laundry so he has clean underwear. <br />
<br />
Sometimes love is a sweet kiss as you go about your day.<br />
Sometimes love is taking the evening to focus on each other's needs. (And have fun doing it.)<br />
<br />
Sometimes love is buying him a new toothbrush on a religious schedule. <br />
Sometimes love is buying her the dress she posted on <a href="http://pinterest.com/juliannamorlet"><b>Pinterest</b></a> last night.<br />
<br />
Sometimes love is hashing out the same argument year after year. <br />
Sometimes love is letting it go.<br />
<br />
Sometimes love is kindly advising.<br />
Sometimes love is quietly praying.<br />
<br />
Sometimes love is laughing uncontrollably for hours on end.<br />
Sometimes love is ugly crying over brokenness and loss.<br />
<br />
But always, always, always, love is a choice.<br />
<br />
The acts of love may shift over time, but the source of love must remain the same. We feel, we hurt, we kiss, we makeup, but in the end, my love is a choice, and I choose you.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Love%20and%20Marriage"><b>Year after year</b></a>, I will choose you <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2012/09/an-overdue-letter-to-my-husband.html"><b>Tyson Morlet</b></a>. Even in eternity.<br />
<br />
<i>Happy Valentine's Day.</i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-1741716180322364002016-02-12T06:30:00.000-06:002016-02-12T06:30:06.638-06:00What Tells You It's the Weekend? #donutsandcoffee<br />
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<a href="http://eepurl.com/vobLP"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vc74PvIQFHk/Vr1bLyl-WUI/AAAAAAAAGuk/yWEPEZ2cuQQ/s1600/Feb-12.png" /></a></div>
Happy Weekend ya'll --- #iheardit<br />
<br />
If you're not getting <b><a href="http://eepurl.com/vobLP">Morning Pep Talks</a></b> in your inbox, well, today's one of those days you're probably gonna regret that. #starbucks<br />
<br />
Don't miss the surprises guys! I'm on maternity leave and bored out of my mind. Also folding baby clothes. And sorting pacifiers. And hanging pictures. And watching Netflix. Seeee?<br />
<br />
Love ya. Hope your weekend is amazing. And let's <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Coffee%20Date">do coffee</a></b> soon eh?<br />
<br />Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-49594928377003660952016-01-25T03:00:00.000-06:002016-01-25T03:00:13.095-06:00Morning Pep Talks | Better than coffee... #justkidding<a href="http://eepurl.com/vobLP"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Bf85lNEXhU/VpCVa52bndI/AAAAAAAAGtk/-kS8QfSS-m8/s1600/morning-pep-talks.png" /></a><br />
<a href="http://eepurl.com/vobLP"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rzYvkd4w-6E/VpCaI6rhJeI/AAAAAAAAGtw/YLlHrMhl_h0/s1600/morning-pep-talk-2.png" /></a><br />
<a href="http://eepurl.com/vobLP"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DZLUsC4HA88/VpCbmXgbm6I/AAAAAAAAGuI/Ocahu0lyvlI/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-08%2Bat%2B11.30.16%2BPM.png" /></a>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-44997812695849719752015-12-22T13:51:00.002-06:002015-12-22T13:51:15.838-06:00What My Two Year Old Taught Me This Year About Decision Making<br />
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QseFR_aRsZE/VnmofwHz-pI/AAAAAAAAGtA/DDmOO1HLDbI/s1600/IMG_6786.JPG" /><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ct8sQsGIZ8w/VnmorTZYn9I/AAAAAAAAGtM/ZON1XcodsfE/s1600/IMG_6738.JPG" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h2>
<b>January 2015, I decided this year would be my year for "Decisions." </b></h2>
I wanted to make wise, thought through, calculated and healthy decisions about my life, dreams, family and marriage.<br />
<br />
I thought that by <i>deciding</i> to make my decisions this way, I could control the pace at which the situations that called for some decision making came. <i>Did I lose you yet? </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
I wanted to be in charge of my life again. I wanted to dictate how fast or slow it would go, depending on the speed of the day or week or month and how my family and I were grooving.<br />
<br />
I wanted to, in my mind, <i>finally be an adult</i> about the mature decisions I made.<br />
<br />
But after 357 days of toiling to form a routine, a process, a grown up adult plan for my life, I've discovered yet another one of life's dirty little secrets:<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>The adult decision process is exactly the same as a child's. </b><i>The only thing that changes is the scenario, setting, weight and complexity surrounding the decision. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Motherhood">My two year old</a> and I make decisions <b><i>the exact same way! </i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
She wants something.<br />
She fights for it.<br />
Someone or something warns her it's not good for her.<br />
She then gets to <i>decide</i> if she will disregard warning for the sake of momentary satisfaction.<br />
Or she gets to <i>decide </i>if she will heed warning and avoid certain heartache.<br />
<br />
I want something.<br />
I fights for it.<br />
I then get to <i>decide</i> if I will disregard warning for the sake of momentary satisfaction.<br />
Or I get to <i>decide </i>if I will heed warning and avoid certain heartache.<br />
<br />
The <i>only difference </i>is that her decision involves things like a box of cookies or jumping on and off the couch and mine involves situations like whether I'm going to work or stay home after <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/The%20Pregnancy">Baby Mo 2</a> is born. (<i>Ok, sometimes mine involves cookies too.)</i><br />
<br />
<b><i>Decisions. Deciding. </i></b><div>
<b><i><br /></i></b>Most of us don't blatantly choose the wrong thing. Sometimes we do, but most of the time we want to do what's right, we just don't know what exactly that is. Thus, my lesson for the year:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>“All the ways of a man are clean in his own sight, but the Lord weighs the motives.” | Proverbs 16:2</b></blockquote>
<div>
<br /></div>
<b>Only God can set my feet on the road to wisdom</b>. He sees my heart, He knows my kryptonite and my strengths. He knows what He's fashioning me for and what I need to let go of.<br />
<br />
He knows. And I've found myself laughing because of how little I included Him in my decision making process!<br />
<br />
It would KILL ME, if I knew Symphony was up against a big decision, like whether she should poop in her pants or in the toilet, and she felt she didn't have permission to ask before making the wrong decision.<br />
<br />
I want her to know she can come to me with <i>any question </i>and I will help her see what she should do.<br />
<br />
And I'm not even God! Just a mama that loves her more than anything. Just think of how silly it is that God views us in that same vein, times 1,000,000 and yet going to Him first isn't yet in our routine.<br />
<br />
I would make decisions and then ask Him,"Did I do that right?" Instead of inquiring <i>before hand</i> and allowing Him to lead me from the beginning.<br />
<br />
And it's not this super spiritual "<i>Jesus please send me a note or an angel to tell me what to do.</i>"<br />
<br />
It's more like, "<i>Hey, I am seeking You. I need help. I don't know what to do and I need you to give me a peace or discomfort if I'm making the right or wrong decision." </i><br />
<br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"But God is my helper. The Lord keeps me alive!" | Psalm 54:4</b></blockquote>
So 2016, come what may. The crazy, the hustle, the sacrifice, the hidden and the boxes of diapers.<br />
<br />
I am not afraid because, yes it took me 300+ days to figure this thing out, but from this point on, <strike>most of</strike> my decisions won't be made in vain or strife or confusion. <br />
<br />
I am seeking God first, <i>on everything</i>.<br />
<br />
Ciao --<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><b>End of the Year Reading in case you're bored</b></i><br />
<div style="background-color: white; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2014/12/why-you-need-to-finish-strong-this-year.html" style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #444444;">Why You Need to Finish Strong This Year</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2014/12/the-ground-is-breaking.html" style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #444444;">The Ground is Breaking</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2015/07/a-letter-to-my-brother-4-years-later.html" style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #444444;">A Letter to My Brother 4 Years Later</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2015/05/20-things-to-remember-if-you-love.html" style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #444444;">20 Things to Remember If You Love a Highly Creative Person</span></a></li>
</ul>
</div>
Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-34859241197545656142015-11-02T12:51:00.000-06:002015-11-02T12:51:55.453-06:00My God Will Supply All Your Needs (Even the emotional ones)<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DXKXhYPloEI/VjelmLriMUI/AAAAAAAAGr8/4zBEzK-jBAc/s1600/vsco-photo-1%2B%25282%2529.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ruzL8e6lpko/Vjel3TIRifI/AAAAAAAAGsM/9bOOP5BRHg4/s1600/vsco-photo-1.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">I've been feeling a little off balance lately. </span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
It could be the fluctuating <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Motherhood">pregnancy</a> </b>hormones. It could be work responsibilities and struggles. It could be I feel like I haven't had time for <span id="goog_1429941819"></span><b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2014/04/our-love-story-it-started-in-parking-lot.html">my marriage</a></b><span id="goog_1429941820"></span>. It could be that I haven't sat and read a book to <b><a href="http://parenting/">my kid</a></b> in who knows how long. It could be that everywhere I look there's more sickness and death and mourning and struggle and loss. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It could be fear. I'm not entirely sure yet. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So this morning, I walked into the office, lit some candles, put on my new favorite chill playlist and started reading. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My only agenda was to be refreshed. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Whenever I'm doing a no agenda Bible read, I usually start with a passage I know will refocus me and then read the chapter before or the chapter after. Or both.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today, I read before. The passage I started with was a verse I memorized as a child:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>"Fear not for I am with you, do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10</i></blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As a child, this verse brought me comfort in both dire and silly situations. It is my life line. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So I started there and then read one chapter back. <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2040&version=NIV">Isaiah 40</a>; a chapter that goes in deep about God's comfort for His people, His promises and how they'll never waiver, and then into His greatness.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's as if He knows our human minds and tendencies toward doubt and therefore validates Himself, probably unnecessarily, to remind us, <i>again</i>, who He is. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I read <i>verse one. Verse two. Verse three, four, five, six. Verse seven and eight. Nine and ten. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I didn't know what I was looking for. All I asked for was a word. A word that would comfort whatever felt off balance. A word that would remind me of what mattered. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><b>And then verse eleven. </b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">"God will tend His flock like a shepherd, He will gather the lambs in His arms; He will carry them in his bosom and gently lead those that are with young."</span> Isaiah 40:11</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Like jumping into a crisp lake on a blazing, humid, hot Summer day, I got my word (<i>words, really</i>) and my soul was refreshed. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Why? </i>I found myself asking. <i>Why do you just show up like that when we ask? </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>It's simple really,</b> He replied. <b>Because I love you. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
He loves us. All of us. He wants us to ask Him and He will give. He wants us to seek Him and He will be found, pouring out love, security, peace and joy in our hearts, minds, and souls. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So Jules, and any other girl, wife, mama, student, woman who needs them, here are your words: </div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>God is a God of action. He <i>tends, carries, gathers, leads. </i></b></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>The actions begin with Him. Alone. He initiates movement.</b></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>His people are <i>His</i> responsibility. Not yours. You show up, but He moves them. </b></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>The burden is His. He carries. You support. </b></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>He sees you, young mom of toddlers. He sees your babies and He sees that you have no idea what you're doing. He will teach you. Trust Him again today.</b></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>His mode of operation with His children is gentleness. Always. </b></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
My family is taken care of. My work situations are taken care of. My home is taken care of. My friends and family struggling with life and health and love are taken care of. There's no need to fear as long as my eyes and ears are open to how He's asking me to step in.<br />
<br />
<i>Anybody else need that today? </i>Just me? Ok :)</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." <i>Philippians 4:19</i></div>
Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-57097140441662785202015-10-23T12:51:00.003-05:002015-10-23T12:51:40.237-05:00Shine Women's Conference | Austin TX<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ge212SGdqdE/Vipu8Wb5p9I/AAAAAAAAGpk/6BMhd1lpdyo/s1600/shine-austin-1.png" /><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p9dK565jNpA/Vipu-45ykKI/AAAAAAAAGqc/6_E9koAKmuo/s1600/shine-austin-8.png" /><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oe7nMDmKm08/Vipwc37nsMI/AAAAAAAAGrc/lvwtleveqiU/s1600/shine-austin-9.png" /><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8b-RJZi4IAk/VipwbnE57TI/AAAAAAAAGrI/4tmRMyjWmj8/s1600/12032854_876648122388829_1866289926571844729_o.jpg" /><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iBGzmgrAP1o/Vipu9TVAviI/AAAAAAAAGqA/h9dwxoxlRWo/s1600/shine-austin-3.png" /><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0P02hvPOkbU/VipwcCop3fI/AAAAAAAAGrM/D3RRG4tWyZc/s1600/shine-austin-2.png" /><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9SH-AxUlbO8/Vipu9sMjffI/AAAAAAAAGp8/FTn0puQaJXI/s1600/shine-austin-4.png" /><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wvi4z2f7LG0/Vipu94SvW6I/AAAAAAAAGqI/xG5oTrYAMhI/s1600/shine-austin-5.png" /><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y1cWEH6Ql_s/Vipu-amioWI/AAAAAAAAGqQ/wOSk5GLACwg/s1600/shine-austin-6.png" /><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VRl_NZ2rVW4/VipwcVJyQPI/AAAAAAAAGrU/sVhZCR-3WYc/s1600/shine-austin-7.png" /><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yaV2O8Iyd0U/Vipu8crdaHI/AAAAAAAAGps/tkQ9D6oBh3M/s1600/shine-austin-10.png" /></div>
<br />
<i><b>"Movements are made of normal people moving."</b></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
History, legacy, movements. These are all words we associate with world changers and politicians, pastors or world leaders. Rarely do we name them of ourselves.<br />
<br />
But let me tell you. In these photos, are men and women who embody every one of those words.<br />
<br />
There is a seasoned generation that have gone before, built up the walls and vehicles by which we move today. And then there are the babies. The newbies, if you will, who are jumping in, head first, to a whirlpool of inspiration, aspiration, ambition and mission.<br />
<br />
One generation looking back, reaching out and lifting up the other. That's the Church. That's community. That's legacy.<br />
<br />
It's crazy to think that <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Becoming%20Girls%20Conference">one season</a></b> could have prepared me for this one. <i>Oh geez, that's a whole other post.</i><br />
<br />
I am so honored to be a small part of what happens <b><a href="http://shinewomen.com/">once a year</a></b> (and all the <a href="http://facebook.com/shorelinesisterhood"><b>Wednesdays in between</b></a>) in Austin, Texas. <a href="http://shinewomen.com/">Shine conference</a> has been a catalyst for so many women in this city. I can't wait to see what next year holds.<br />
<br />
<i>Jesus give us fresh vision, a fresh wind of ideas and creativity. Give us Your words and Your message, once again. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<a href="" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-20695344849057949632015-10-06T08:51:00.003-05:002015-10-06T08:51:50.885-05:00I Am BarabbasIf you have not seen this video, it was slay you. I watched it, not knowing what it was, and I ended up in tears and thanking Jesus all over again. #imsorry #yourewelcome<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="422" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RwX_EpNR4CA?rel=0" width="750"></iframe>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-7674865628913085982015-10-01T21:00:00.000-05:002015-10-01T21:00:02.300-05:00Mo Christmas Starts Now<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CKwjaG48-bA/Vg2F2EOeIXI/AAAAAAAAGo0/IUMZhAWYSMM/s1600/christmas-playlist.png" /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You know what time it is: Christmas Music at the Mo's. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It starts tonight. Latte's. Cocoa. Blankets. Socks. Dancing. Sugar cookies. #crapineedtogotothestore</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I made a playlist that we'll be starting our season out with, if you care to listen along. It's got a good mix: Colbie, Buble, Sufjan, Amy, Kelly, and an addition from last year, Penatonix. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm excited that <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Motherhood">our girl</a> is getting older and can understand music and dance along with us. It'll be fun to add some of her favorites to this list as the most wonderful time of the year approaches. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Click here to listen to our <a href="https://open.spotify.com/user/morlets/playlist/29HnxoEZcAI6g0lTUtF2Yw">CHRISTMAS MIX</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://open.spotify.com/user/morlets/playlist/29HnxoEZcAI6g0lTUtF2Yw"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N_ZfcXBTMX0/Vg2G7YPtIhI/AAAAAAAAGpA/Zdcn-MkEctM/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-10-01%2Bat%2B2.17.17%2BPM.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Our other playlists:</i><br />
<i><b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2011/10/christmas-music-starts-today-its.html">2011</a>, <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2012/12/mos-merry-christmas-music.html">2012</a></b>, <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2013/10/merry-christmas-music-from-mos.html">2013</a></b></i><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>Original Photo <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/localmilk/12311722695/">via</a></i></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7443046909070497335%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D64920795696156552%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-CKwjaG48-bA%2FVg2F2EOeIXI%2FAAAAAAAAGo0%2FIUMZhAWYSMM%2Fs1600%2Fchristmas-playlist.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=cFLPe2hnescM&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7443046909070497335%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D64920795696156552%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-CKwjaG48-bA%2FVg2F2EOeIXI%2FAAAAAAAAGo0%2FIUMZhAWYSMM%2Fs1600%2Fchristmas-playlist.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=cFLPe2hnescM&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-649207956961565522015-10-01T10:17:00.003-05:002015-10-01T10:17:39.442-05:00Good, Good Father <div id="fb-root">
</div>
<script>(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_GB/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v2.3"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));</script><br />
<div class="fb-video" data-allowfullscreen="1" data-href="/juliannamorlet/videos/vb.235793093116073/1176113995750640/?type=3">
<div class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/juliannamorlet/videos/1176113995750640/">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/juliannamorlet/videos/1176113995750640/"></a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I shared this video with my FB pals and the response had me in tears. From the moment I heard this song, I know women (and men) around the world would resonate so deeply with it. I want to sing it everywhere at all times haha. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As a girl who relied on Jesus to be her Father from <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2014/04/i-am-not-afraid-of-you-anymore-on.html">a young age</a></b> and then had a <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2010/06/my-knight-in-shining-armor.html"><b>miracle step dad</b></a> fill the earthly role, this song gets to me.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>This beautiful song was originally written and recorded by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=djrY_eFDOwE">Housefires</a>.</i></div>
Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-60503625322079502292015-09-24T06:00:00.000-05:002015-09-24T06:00:03.029-05:00Dear Parents of Teenagers, We Need You to Stop Freaking Out<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KJwdRHba8p4/VgBzwyn1oII/AAAAAAAAGoc/iAZbrKnGX94/s1600/parenting-teens-toddlers-blog.png" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Dear Parents of Teenagers, we need you to stop freaking out. </i></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm not talking about "we" as in the world in general. I'm talking about "we", the parents of toddlers. Little ones we're raising in the world you're posting about going to hell in a hand basket. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Do you remember what it was like to be us? To be young and dumb and yet grasping for any and every book on parenting and discipline and organic food choices?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Do you remember how panicked you were that you'd screw up your kid's nap time routine or that the pacifier would get packed in their high school Jansport? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We're there. Somewhere between mommy shaming and daycare options, organic and non-organic, co-sleeping and crying it out, we need you to turn around, look us square in the eye and tell us this:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><b>It's going to be okay. </b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Of course that's not a hard fast promise. No one really knows when it's going to not be okay any more, but when you post things about the rapid decline of civilization via gay marriage, Trump's wig taking over the world, porn and pot being experimented with at younger and younger ages, we need you to also communicate what Jesus did: <b>H O P E . </b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's true, we need to know the facts. We want to be prepared. Dear sweet Jesus we'd do <i>anything </i>to be prepared. But more than that, we need to know that no matter how dark it may feel in the moment, the world is getting brighter because of parents, God-fearing parents like you.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<b>We need you to show us, not tell us, <i>show us</i> that no circumstance, trend, industry, politics or dating fads can change what Jesus Christ says about us and how He will redeem our world. </b>#fistbump<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We need to know you've got our back.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We need to know you're blazing trails ahead of us. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We need to know you're not curled up in a corner around the bend because more than the porn and the pot and the wigs, <i style="font-weight: bold;">that</i> is our worst fear.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That someone won't be there to help us out of the ditch when we get stuck or be at the top of the well when we're ready to move on. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know this may feel like a rant, but trust me when I say it's not. It's a plea, from a young mom who has no idea how to do this parenting thing. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We need you to speak life and hope and power into our parenting. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We need you to cheer us on because I'm not sure we'll make it without you. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
- - - - - - - - - -<br />
<i>If you're new to this space, I usually reserve <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Motherhood">Mom talk for Thursdays</a>. This isn't a mom blog. But I do blog and I am a mom. So naturally, it leaks through. </i>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-76398302231487937922015-09-16T16:10:00.002-05:002015-09-16T16:10:26.595-05:00Girls Rule, Boys... | Baby Reveal <i>Are still awesome but few and far between in the Mo House</i>. <b>We're excited to announce that <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2015/07/sochalk-anyone.html">Baby Mo #</a>2 is a growing girl!</b><br />
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yps2KyKU0VI/VfnY0bozn4I/AAAAAAAAGn0/ZftVGN-CEyE/s1600/IMG_9759.JPG" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BmIlX260evE/VfnY0h56WaI/AAAAAAAAGn8/FFFWV9w6Cxk/s1600/IMG_9760.JPG" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eu78xHDPz5M/VfnY0kLin5I/AAAAAAAAGn4/FY7WPOt_usY/s1600/IMG_9755.JPG" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Some of you are saying, "<i>Of course the Mo's baby reveal was with Starbucks!" </i>And I'm not entirely sure if you're referring to the unhealthy obsession we have, the frequency of free drinks we get, or that most of my blog posts are written either <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2015/03/the-boy-i-met-at-starbucks.html">about</a></b>, <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2012/06/my-top-5-reasons-im-sad-to-leave-home.html">in</a></b>, or around <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Coffee%20Date">coffee.</a> </b>No idea. ;) #iseeyourinstagrams<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Also, not gonna lie, </i>I've been so hungry and cranky with this one, I would have bet my life it was a boy. Nope. Just a very aggressive girl. Maybe there's a chance this one will be like me after all ;)<br />
<br />
<i>My favorite moment of the day: </i>Me: <b>Yay! They can share a room!</b> Ty: <b>Holy crap we're paying for two weddings! </b>Sym: <b>More coffee please! #</b>priorities<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7443046909070497335%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dheader&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-eu78xHDPz5M%2FVfnY0kLin5I%2FAAAAAAAAGn4%2FFY7WPOt_usY%2Fs1600%2FIMG_9755.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=cFLPe2hnescM&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1582px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7443046909070497335%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dheader&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-eu78xHDPz5M%2FVfnY0kLin5I%2FAAAAAAAAGn4%2FFY7WPOt_usY%2Fs1600%2FIMG_9755.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=cFLPe2hnescM&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1582px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-6787924384499981732015-09-11T06:00:00.000-05:002015-09-11T16:38:49.030-05:00If We Were on a Coffee Date | No. 16<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DBtWVfYx09A/Ve9L17AMsSI/AAAAAAAAGm4/OjITZxti7H0/s1600/coffee%2Bshop%2Bblog%2Bpost.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Oh hey! It's been a while.</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>If we were on a coffee date</b>, it'd probably be because something got cancelled and I had a great need for some girl time. #sorryguys</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>If we were on a coffee date, </b>I'd order a Pumpkin Spice Latte hoping it beckons Fall in Texas. But who are we kidding. Really.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>If we were on a coffee date,</b><i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>we'd go straight for the jugular. Ain't no one got time for small talk these days. Visions and dreams, relationship questions and advice and life lessons, even the hard ones would pour out of both of us.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>If we were on a coffee date, </b>I'd listen to the words you were speaking but really trying to read the heart from which they come.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>If we were on a coffee date, </b>I'd probably be in awe at how God very specifically designed your character, your integrity, your heart and mind and everything that makes up you for a <i>very specific purpose. </i>Even the quirky stuff ;)</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>If we were on a coffee date, </b>I'd tell you it's rare that someone is as in tune as you are with your purpose. And yet, you hold it with an open hand.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>If we were on a coffee date, </b>I'd probably have closed up and reopened the blueberry scone I foolishly bought about 5 times by now. Because I'm starving. And already ate dinner. #pregnantprobs</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>If we were on a coffee date, </b>we'd both check our phones and be shocked at the time. And then laugh, because it felt like we were just getting started.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Oh how I missed these dates. </i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7443046909070497335%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D678792438449998173&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-DBtWVfYx09A%2FVe9L17AMsSI%2FAAAAAAAAGm4%2FOjITZxti7H0%2Fs1600%2Fcoffee%252Bshop%252Bblog%252Bpost.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=cFLPe2hnescM&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7443046909070497335%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D678792438449998173&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-DBtWVfYx09A%2FVe9L17AMsSI%2FAAAAAAAAGm4%2FOjITZxti7H0%2Fs1600%2Fcoffee%252Bshop%252Bblog%252Bpost.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=cFLPe2hnescM&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-74953484449942675872015-09-03T12:24:00.000-05:002015-09-03T12:24:00.480-05:00Good Mom vs Bad Mom<i style="text-align: justify;"><b>I love supporting other writers and ideas that are exploding my mind. This piece by Esther Houston, is one that I can't get out of my head and I hope helps reshape some of my "guilty mom" syndrome. - JM</b></i><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eQdZY-pICyE/VeSNIyTzGJI/AAAAAAAAGmU/lPb5D4M_rXs/s1600/the-love-that-keeps-us-coming-back-hillsong-collected.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eQdZY-pICyE/VeSNIyTzGJI/AAAAAAAAGmU/lPb5D4M_rXs/s1600/the-love-that-keeps-us-coming-back-hillsong-collected.jpg" /></a></div>
<b><div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Original Post by <a href="http://hillsong.com/contributor/esther-houston/">Esther Houston</a> on Hillsong Collective</i></b></div>
</b><div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Being a mother brings out stuff you never knew you had inside of you. An ability to love that you never thought possible before, a level of selflessness you had never experienced before, a grade of sleeplessness you never thought one could survive before. But we love it and wouldn’t trade it for the world. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>We would change everything about it but yet, change nothing at all.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What does that even mean? I’m not really sure, but that’s how I feel.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I’m sure the majority of moms share the sentiment, even though many would be too afraid to admit it and end up sounding like a “bad mom”. So here you go. I’m saying it first so that you can understand that you, dear friend, are not alone; and feeling like that from time to time doesn’t make you a bad mom.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If the single defining characteristic of iconic good motherhood is self-abnegation, her child’s needs come first and their health and happiness are her primary concern. They occupy all her thoughts, her day is constructed around them, and anything and everything she does is for their sakes. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Her own needs, ambitions, and desires are relevant ONLY when in relation to theirs. If a good mother takes care of herself, it is only to the extent that she doesn’t hurt her children. A good mom MUST be able to figure out how to find time for herself, but only if it’s without detriment to her child’s feelings of self-worth.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<i><div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>How is any of that even achievable? </i></div>
</i><div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Being a good father is a reasonable and attainable goal. You show up, you support, you’re physically there (when you can), you provide. I think I’m a MUCH better father than I am a mother.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><b><a href="http://hillsong.com/collected/blog/2015/07/good-mom-vs-bad-mom-when-we-feel-conflicted/#.VeRrEXhg4Q4">Read the rest here</a>.</b></i></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><b>- - - - - - - - - -</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Do you feel the struggle? How do you handle the good mom vs bad mom mindset? </i></b></div>
Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-69975578102442568982015-08-17T13:09:00.003-05:002015-08-17T13:09:22.210-05:00Not Just Another Sunday | Project WOW<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><a href="http://www.projectwow.org/#home">PROJECT WOW</a> is the brain child and collaboration of Ashley Beckford and friends. If you're a woman, and you lead worship at any capacity or want to (I see you) this site is for you.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sq_0S9q2dis/VdIi_TwUx2I/AAAAAAAAGlU/jO9fgoUscdw/s1600/not-just-another-Sunday.png" /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Let’s be honest, ladies. We’ve all done it. I know I have. We’ve come into our Sunday services consumed. Consumed, distracted and overwhelmed with life’s issues. We’ve walked through the sanctuary doors thinking about everything else besides the reason we are there and the One we are supposed to be there for. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then we take the platform still thinking about what the people in the seats (or pews) are thinking about us, our church, our abilities and extra-ordinary skills in nailing that high note or run.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We’ve somehow gotten things twisted. We are caring more about every other person in the room other than the One we declare in our songs. We sing words like “Holy Spirit, You are welcome here”. All the while, I think He wonders if that’s actually true. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have we put together such amazing run sheets and song lists that Planning Center would combust if we deviated from it, should God ask us to? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here’s the million-dollar question: <b><i>Have we left room in our hearts to hear Him when He speaks to us? Or are we too busy getting to every service element before the countdown clock in the back turns red and we usher in a new crowd and do it all over again?</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><a href="http://www.projectwow.org/conversation/2015/8/5/not-just-another-sunday">Read the rest here</a></i></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Post by Shunna Jones Moreno</i></div>
Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-8984241804114432172015-08-09T23:42:00.003-05:002015-08-09T23:42:39.366-05:00Notes from Sunday | On Trusting God<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bgQbbAkSLhg/Vcgg9D3wTdI/AAAAAAAAGks/YlwTaZc_vKo/s1600/Image-1.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /><br />
<br />
Trust is an enigma, its almost always preceded with a great amount of fear but once you engage it, <i><b>it'll set you free</b>. </i><br />
<br />
I was a girl who was told <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Infertility%3A%20In%20Every%20Season">having her own babies was probably never gonna happen</a>. And now, 5 years later, I have <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Motherhood">a toddler</a> and <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2015/07/sochalk-anyone.html">another miracle</a> on the way <i>(and I'm not even sure how this one happened...)</i> <br />
<br />
The doctors gave me a diagnosis that shattered my world, but God always works at a different capacity from this world.<br />
<br />
Listen, I'm <i>not</i> saying that when you bring your needs to God he will fill them how you want them.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What I <i>am</i> saying is when you bring your needs to God, He fills them in a way that will cause you to know Him and love Him and trust Him even more than you do right now in this moment. <br />
<br />
Whatever you're carrying around today give it to Him. <br />
<br />
Someone here needs to know God is their defender.<br />
<br />
Someone here needs to know God is their provider.<br />
<br />
Someone here needs to know God is their ultimate healer.</div>
<div>
Someone here needs to know God <i>still love you. No matter what. </i></div>
<div>
<i><br />
</i></div>
<div>
<i>Trust Him </i>at His word when it says, </div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. </b><i>Romans 8:38-39</i></blockquote>
He's not messin' around.<br />
<br />
- - - - - - - - - -<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="422" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/120731898?color=ffffff&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="750"></iframe>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-73680467949293693052015-07-29T10:02:00.003-05:002015-07-29T13:44:00.107-05:00A Letter to My Brother 4 Years Later<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SLztZNif-Wg/Vbjq34FjZkI/AAAAAAAAGjM/2MZiRu56T3M/s1600/IMG_8702.png" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Four years ago, I wrote you <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2011/06/letter-to-my-brother-on-his-wedding-day.html"><b>this letter</b></a> to say that I love you and I love her and I love that you love her and she loves you. That was the gist. Little did I know, just a glimpse of your story would draw people in so quickly and consistently. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Maybe it's the pictures, young love and rosy cheeks. Maybe it's idea of marriage and fresh beginnings. Or, maybe it's the hope of what could be in their own lives. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
By now, I'm sure you've figured out that marriage is tough. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
There are good days and bad days. Dynamite days and get-out-of-my-face days. There are days you just want to lay in bed, forget the tasks knocking down your door, and cuddle. And then there are days you think, "<i>Do we have to fight about this again?</i>" </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WJtvPpVCodo/VbafPQdjFJI/AAAAAAAAGio/94jp2GuZ3JU/s1600/letter-to-my-brother-and-sister-in-law.png" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
My plan for this letter was to tell you why it's worth it. Why the fight is <i><b>always </b></i>worth it. I was going to tell you that for every bad day there are 100 good days. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I was going to tell you that the history you two are writing together will forever be irreplaceable and it's the thread that binds your heart and mind and soul together, tighter and more aligned with each passing year. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KcytTudjBUM/VbafOrJXeaI/AAAAAAAAGig/nItMk2ewIy0/s1600/letter-to-my-brother-and-sister-in-law-2.png" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
But over the last 6 months, I've never been more proud to watch you grown into the man of God you've become. The love we saw way back then, has proven to be just the tip of the iceberg that is you. Your affection and devotion for this girl has been an absolute joy to watch. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
You lift her up. You adore her. You praise her and trust her. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
You know her inner battles and you soothe them with your presence. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
You hold her even when she thinks she wants to be alone and you comfort her when her world is crashing around her. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
You see her wounds and you do everything you can to heal them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
You take joy in her, knowing she's yours and you're one lucky son of a gun. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
You make sure she belly laughs by doing stupid dances in the kitchen.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
You make sure her eyes sparkle by bringing her flowers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
You let her explore her passions and dreams and you are her #1 cheerleader for every race she decides to run. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
You're not perfect, but everything she deserves, you have worked to give her. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HbJU-4URlhs/VbafOihZpyI/AAAAAAAAGik/riZrzjbN7t4/s1600/letter-to-my-brother-and-sister-in-law-3.png" /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've never been more proud of you. You two are beating the odds. Your marriage is most definitely a beacon shining in the the darkest of nights. Keep fighting, keep loving, keep laughing, and have a kid or two soon eh? #jk #butseriously<br />
<br />
I love you,<br />
<br />
- Julie</div>
Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-55739948634613244552015-07-19T22:07:00.000-05:002015-07-20T11:44:35.075-05:00So...Chalk Anyone? | A Baby Surprise!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XTO4FZGQypo/VaxbfGk0B_I/AAAAAAAAGhM/bNsv8hktd3k/s1600/baby%2Bmo%2B22%2Bcopy.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2-qzGrKDHyo/Vaxbgw4fMpI/AAAAAAAAGhs/eU_UY9mVuRg/s1600/baby%2Bmo%2B28%2Bcopy.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Aa-9Eg_clo/VaxbgLq__XI/AAAAAAAAGhc/GITyUJ8X-DE/s1600/baby%2Bmo%2B26%2Bcopy.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M_L2dXu2t8A/VaxbfrsTl3I/AAAAAAAAGhw/vQ6DClC75m0/s1600/baby%2Bmo%2B24%2Bcopy.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BLK-JEsl-bI/Vaxbe5GtiXI/AAAAAAAAGiA/MX_7Bl7tN_8/s1600/baby%2Bmo%2B21%2Bcopy.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3GS_Y90MQLE/VaxbfWaTMhI/AAAAAAAAGiE/ovUS-YacOrc/s1600/baby%2Bmo%2B23%2Bcopy.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oUbMaGE0pQI/VaxbfNvatrI/AAAAAAAAGhU/na9p49IYMN0/s1600/baby%2Bmo%2B2%2Bcopy.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jEsvPSBeR4I/VaxbgmwX7XI/AAAAAAAAGh0/8_XZhmAHuMY/s1600/baby%2Bmo%2B27%2Bcopy.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VORaIL9ybmQ/Vaxbf821MBI/AAAAAAAAGhg/hNPHlFNzICs/s1600/baby%2Bmo%2B25%2Bcopy.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Guy Version:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We're having a baby!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Girl Version:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
It's true. Totally unexpected, but totally true. AH! Ty and I were actually in a fight the day we found out. We'd just moved into our new home, sang at a wedding, had a <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2009/07/wedding-day-for-history-books.html">mini-anniversary</a></b>/<a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Symphony%27s%20Birth%20Story"><b>mini-birthday celebration</b></a> for us and Sym, and did a full weekend at church. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Needless to say, by Monday I was <i>exhausted. </i>According to Ty, I was irritated, grumpy, and distant. The jury's still out on that... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Things finally bubbled to the surface when he asked "<i>Babe, you ok?" </i>for like the 17th time. You know that meme that says <i>I was fine until you asked me if I was ok for the 17th time, </i>it was like that. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<i>Yes, babe, </i>I snapped. <i>I'm fine, I'm just exhausted, hungry, my stomach is bothering me and...we should probably stop by the store on the way home. </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
So we did. Got home, peed on that silly stick and so many memories came flooding back. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I handed it to Ty and he just stared. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
"<i>So, if it has a + sign, it's positive?" </i>he asked. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
WHAT?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The moment my eyes met the stick I had the same exact feeling I did <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2012/11/were-pregnant-baby-mo-is-on-way.html">when I found out with Sym</a></b>. My stomach dropped the same way and my eyes welled with tears at the same pace. Instantly. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<i>OK.</i> I looked at Ty, still reeling. <i>This isn't possible. This isn't supposed to be possible. </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
But God. :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
It seems His favorite thing to do is the impossible, because then we know, without a shadow of a doubt, it's from Him. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
It always is. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Also, fun fact: The day after we told family, our old pregnancy announcement on FB resurfaced...but of course we couldn't say, "HEY GUYS NOT PREGNANT!" Because we totally were. #gotcha </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We're so ecstatic (and a little nervous) to add to our little family. Life in Austin has been amazing. This community has quickly become family. We're forming our tribe, and now we're gonna need them more than ever. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-77417235930337595152015-07-08T14:32:00.000-05:002015-07-08T14:32:50.447-05:00I Want My Daughter to Know Why We Sing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x8TfOPj6RzM/VW4xxuBhRRI/AAAAAAAAGfA/aGNqHtdOKJU/s1600/working-mom-worship-baby-1.png" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0Gr1816Uwk/VW4xxeFbC-I/AAAAAAAAGe8/uUzRLFxvSaU/s1600/working-mom-worship-baby-2.png" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7YPq2uneZvE/VW4xxl8-egI/AAAAAAAAGfI/L1k_tyd57-E/s1600/working-mom-worship-baby-3.png" /></div>
<br />
I have a fear that one day my daughter might come to despise the church, without ever really knowing or discovering for herself what it stands for.<br />
<br />
I've seen my fair share of pastors' kids or kids with any connection to the Church, turn their back on it all because of any number of reasons. Some, because of all the things it took away from them--recitals, dad at their ball games, family dinners, vacations, Sunday morning doughnut runs. Others, because of the chaos it comes with--fishbowl lifestyle, open home, early mornings and late nights.<br />
<br />
<b>I know some parents completely missed the signs; the warnings and cries for attention or help from their children. But some really, <i>really</i> tried. Like <i>really.</i></b><br />
<i><br /></i><b>
That's what terrifies me.</b><br />
<br />
I'm afraid I'll try my hardest to be balanced and still miss the mark.<br />
<br />
So I started a journal. <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Motherhood" target="_blank">For her.</a> Hopefully the first of dozens that I'll write in, pray over, cry through and laugh about.<br />
<br />
It's just one more attempt to go out of my way to let her know, to let <i>you know</i>, <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Motherhood">sweet Symphony,</a></b> why we get up early and stay up late, why we spend most every Christmas and Easter in the walls of a Church.<br />
<br />
This is why you know your way around the sanctuary and church halls and where every bathroom and trash can are. This is why everyone you waddle past knows your name.<br />
<br />
Because Jesus loves us.<br />
He saved us.<br />
We, me and your Dad, we shouldn't be here.<br />
He wasn't planned.<br />
I was supposed to be a sexual abuse statistic.<br />
We are not supposed to be here, in this place, physically, emotionally, spiritually.<br />
<br />
We made some bad decisions.<br />
Destructive decisions.<br />
Petty, self-righteous, and sinful decisions.<br />
<br />
<b>AND GOD'S GRACE WAS STILL SUFFICIENT.</b><br />
<br />
Trust me, that's some crazy good news.<br />
<br />
We sing because <b><i>we have to. </i></b><br />
We<i><b> have to</b></i> tell the world about this magnificent grace and love.<br />
We <i style="font-weight: bold;">have to</i> show you that it's the most real thing you'll ever experience.<br />
<br />
This is why we sing, and dance and act like crazy people on and off the stage.<br />
<div>
<br />
Grace, love, peace.<br />
Redemption, restoration.<br />
It's all because of Jesus.<br />
<br />
- - - - - - - - - -<br />
<i>Our family worships and serves at <a href="http://shoreline.net/">Shoreline Church</a> in Austin,TX. If you're local we'd love you to join us! And tell us when you're here. Obvs :) </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i></div>
Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-1734732042668886782015-06-10T21:00:00.000-05:002015-06-10T21:00:00.906-05:00Our Boots to the Ground on Human Trafficking <div style="text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IHfgwMm4yZI/VXiHp6xvN1I/AAAAAAAAGfs/63p1hXCUJaM/s1600/human-trafficking-austin.png" /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For 5 years I've have the honor of carrying a portion of the human trafficking burden. It's something that's real and that, <i>thank God almighty</i>, people are becoming more and more aware exists right in their backyards. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After a <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2010/02/cause-that-calls-for-action.html">series of horrific dreams of brothels, trafficking rings, and hopeless girls</a></b> in 2009, Tyson and I decided do something, <i>anything</i>, to be a part of this giant solution. We found and sponsored a fantastic organization called LOVE 146. Our <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Becoming%20Girls%20Conference">girls conference</a> played a huge part in raising awareness on this injustice and YOU gave hundreds of dollars to support them! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>M y e y e s w e r e o p e n e d .</i> </b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In 2012, I met Crystal and within 3 minutes of chatting with her I knew her heart was bleeding for this issue. She headed up <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/My%20Refuge%20House"><b>My Refuge House</b></a> in the Philippines; a safe home for rescued girls to experience freedom and restoration. The last girls conference was in FULL SUPPORT mode for these girls. We wrote them letters, gave our hard earned money and <b><a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2014/03/that-one-time-i-ran-for-her-life.html">we even ran</a></b>, like RAN, to tell the world about them! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><b>M y h e a r t w a s b r o k e n .</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And then, last year I met <b><a href="http://allworthyoflove.org/about-us/lindsey-fischer/">Lindsey</a></b>. A girl whose heart became arrested with this injustice and whose mind could not fathom the gap that existed between her world and theirs. <b><a href="http://allworthyoflove.org/about-us/our-focus/">Prostitutes. Street girls. Modern day slavery</a></b>. And even the pimps. She couldn't live her life another day and not do something. And she asked me to come along. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><b>M y f e e t w e r e a c t i v a t e d .</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And I believe yours will too after you watch this:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="422" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/67956428?color=ffffff&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="750"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>WHY AM I TELLING YOU THIS - </b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Because I trust you</b>. Most of you have been with me on this journey from my initial awareness to every hands on opportunity we've had. The last 6 years have been <i style="font-weight: bold;">our</i> journey in changing <b><i>our</i></b> corners of the world and I want to extend, yet another invitation. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>WHO WE ARE - </b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br />
</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><a href="http://The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;">All Worthy of Love</a></b> is a justice focused non-profit that reaches out to men and women enslaved by street-prostitution. Our mission is to restore broken dwellings, based on the teachings of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CCwQFjAAahUKEwiK_uX-74XGAhVRgJIKHRYyDTk&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.biblegateway.com%2Fpassage%2F%3Fsearch%3DIsaiah%252058&ei=35F4VcqSItGAygSW5LTIAw&usg=AFQjCNHsoIL-K4k0BatJ20oEQANK6WPyhA&sig2=L3q_FR5QhVoU2mkPsQXzqg&bvm=bv.95277229,d.aWw">Isaiah 58</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We work in a three stranded cord; prevention, rescue, and restoration.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We prevent sex trafficking through awareness.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We rescue victims of trafficking through weekly outreach. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We restore victims of trafficking through partnerships with local organizations that offer safe housing and restorative care.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We believe all are worthy of love.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br />
</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Amen?!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BbvdxjgNBMQ/VXiHp-6daXI/AAAAAAAAGfw/YHxXWrHg0Fs/s1600/human-trafficking-austin-quote.png" /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br />
</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>WHAT YOU CAN DO. RIGHT NOW. THIS MINUTE. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br />
</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>PRAY.</b> This is not a pat answer. Pray hard and pray every Monday at 7:00PM central time. Set an alarm. That's when we drive and find girls and pimps to give hygiene kits and lunches to. We ask God to bring them out of the darkness, both literally and spiritually. It's His job. We're just there when they show up. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>MAKE LUNCHES. </b>If you're local to Austin, Texas, and you have a couple hours free on Monday afternoons, and you love us, you can make and pray over 20 lunches for us to give to the girls! Not kidding. <b><a href="mailto:juliannamorlet@gmail.com">Email me</a></b>. If you're not local, but still want to donate to meals, <a href="http://allworthyoflove.org/get-involved/#sd-modal-button-form"><b>go here!</b></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>DONATE A HYGIENE KIT. </b>Or a part of it. Each kit includes 9 travel-sized items: <i>shampoo, conditioner, lotion, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, washcloth, deodorant, and a razor</i>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We also like to add in some special items when we can, such as<i> make up, nail polish, or perfume</i> to help the women to feel beautiful. So send those lip glosses and nail polishes right over! You don't have to be local to do this one! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>LUNCH BOX NOTES. </b>Did your mom ever write "<i>I love you!" </i>or draw a smiley face on your lunch napkin? No? Just me? Ok. Well it's awesome and we want those girls to feel absurdly loved. Even down the the napkins. Will you write a note or a bunch of them and mail them to us? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
These are our main needs for the Austin Outreach location, but you can see more ways to <a href="http://allworthyoflove.org/get-involved/"><b>be involved here</b></a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you're doing ANY of the above, will you tell me in the comments below?! If you'd like to ship or donate physical items mentioned above, <b><a href="mailto:juliannamorlet@gmail.com">email me</a></b> and I'll send you the address.</div>
<br />
You guys are the best and I am honored to have this community restoring the world with me and my friends :) I am praying this will be one of the biggest victories the Christian Church has seen to date.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
- - - - -</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. - <i>Proverbs 31:8-9</i></div>
<br />
The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound. - <i>Isaiah 61</i><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>Photo quote <a href="http://allworthyoflove.org/brokenness-for-beauty/">via</a></i></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7443046909070497335%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D173473204266888678%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-IHfgwMm4yZI%2FVXiHp6xvN1I%2FAAAAAAAAGfs%2F63p1hXCUJaM%2Fs1600%2Fhuman-trafficking-austin.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7443046909070497335%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D173473204266888678%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-IHfgwMm4yZI%2FVXiHp6xvN1I%2FAAAAAAAAGfs%2F63p1hXCUJaM%2Fs1600%2Fhuman-trafficking-austin.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-77236728060668899332015-06-03T03:00:00.000-05:002015-06-03T03:00:15.609-05:00Are You an Intentional Friend?<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-49CLF5WlEoQ/UzPA7AC3Z1I/AAAAAAAAFhI/zajSHVY3Zck/s1600/friendshipblogpost.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Me neither.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<h3 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><a href="http://ctt.ec/24mb9">Friendship is the mother of all relationships; ironically.</a> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">(Click to tweet!)</span></span></span></h3>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Without friendship, the human race cannot thrive. We could survive, sure, but we wouldn’t be living at our full capacity. We wouldn’t be tapping into who we really are: Created beings in the image of a relational God.</span></div>
<h3 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now with that, let me say I am a bad friend.</span></h3>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Or at least that’s what my sweet husband tried to tell me. We were watching a video series on marriage and that evening’s topic was on friendship. The pastor said that<em style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">friendship is the foundation of all healthy relationships</em>. Different types of friendships will go to different levels of intimacy, nonetheless, friendship is the required baseline.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">At the end of the video, he told us to ask one another how they think we are doing on the friendship scale. When I asked Ty, he replied,</span></div>
<blockquote style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #666666; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 10px 30px; quotes: none; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; margin-bottom: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<em style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“You’re a good friend babe…when you want to be.”</span></em></div>
</blockquote>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Of course he was super gentle and compassionate in his response, so much so that I did not feel offended (for long). But he was right. Ty’s words to me that day were both timely and enlightening. I never realized I was that way with my friends. But as I started to evaluate my friendships and the ones that fizzled, I saw a pattern of declining priority among them.</span></div>
<h3 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I realized I am what I like to categorize as a “convenience friend.”</span></h3>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">When the stars align and my schedule clears up, then we can try to get coffee. It’s not for lack of desire necessarily, but rather ignorant precedence. I love my friends, probably more than they know, but <em style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I wasn’t being intentional about showing them their value in my life.</em></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">That night I tossed and turned until 4AM, mulling over the many friendships I’ve probably lost due to my unintentional way of being a friend; or convenience friendship. I felt dichotomized because on one hand I felt so much sorrow for the past, and on the other hand I felt motivated to start showing my friends just how much they mean to me.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I was reminded while reading Colossians 3, that friendship doesn’t just consistent of the DON’T's (don’t gossip, don’t backstab, don’t hate, don’t hurt, etc), but more so of the DO’s (love, humility, patience, kindness, compassion, etc).</span></div>
<h3 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Friendship isn’t passive and convenient, it is proactive and sought out because it is necessary! </span><a href="http://ctt.ec/VCqc3" style="font-size: 20px;">We were never meant to be independent and self-sufficient.</a><span style="font-size: 20px;"> <a href="http://ctt.ec/1Zldr">We were never meant to be alone.</a></span></span></h3>
<h3 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">You need them to get through this life and they need you.</span></span></h3>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So this is my challenge to you (and to me!)</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This week, write a card, an email, or a text to a friend you have been “convenient” with. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
First, ask for their forgiveness for not being the friend they needed. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Second, tell them how much you appreciate them and be specific. They will love it!</span></div>
<blockquote style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #666666; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 10px 30px; quotes: none; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; margin-bottom: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">“Again, I saw vanity under the sun: one person who has no other, either son or brother, yet there is no end to all his toil, and his eyes are never satisfied with riches, so that he never asks, “For whom am I toiling and depriving myself of pleasure?” This also is vanity and an unhappy business. Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!” (Ecclesiastes 4:7-9).</span></div>
</blockquote>
Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-17474830989077423102015-05-28T06:00:00.000-05:002015-05-28T06:00:05.702-05:00I'm in Love With Us <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hIP_c5cAucU/VWE5K4dLUnI/AAAAAAAAGUE/pYY3bLNkS9Q/s1600/pizza-date-menu.png" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4qJpQgdGg-U/VWE5L-B_MxI/AAAAAAAAGUo/Glw7tFtW7co/s1600/pizza-date-window.png" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X0HHUp6pLp0/VWE5LlP2JbI/AAAAAAAAGUQ/kVP6jyheLhE/s1600/pizza-date-ty.png" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FK1cH-ZtCHY/VWE5LHlJ5aI/AAAAAAAAGUI/k_PNz-hn7F0/s1600/pizza-date-jules.png" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L24LP38cy2I/VWE5LFG03eI/AAAAAAAAGUM/eO8AnLF6jLA/s1600/pizza-date-sym.png" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love my family. This isn't as much bragging as it is me being in awe of how much God knows and cares about the details of our lives. The three of us, we're perfect for each other. Everything about us feels too natural and charmed. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Don't get me wrong. We are human. We're flawed. We're temperamental and we each have our innate bends towards selfishness and stubbornness. Some a little more than others. #notnamingnames</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But even those, the flaws and setbacks, they seem to come in perfectly timed waves amongst one another. We're never all down and out at the same time. We're never all stubborn at the same time. We're never all throwing tantrums at the same time. There's always one that is steadfast. And since we're being honest, sometimes it's <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/search/label/Motherhood"><b>the littlest of us</b></a>. #notkidding </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The realist side of me goes to bed fearing it won't be like this forever. And maybe it won't. But we can't know that, until, well, forever comes and goes. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So until then, we're going to eat way to many fruit snacks, giggle while reading something about a pig and parade, and talk and gawk at the "funder" storms outside our apartment. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We're going to continue bending out patience and kindness and sweetness and love. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We're going to tell each other "sowy" when we've hurt feelings or disobeyed and not fear repentance.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We're going to talk to Jesus through songs and prayers and listen to what He might be telling us.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We're going to take random drives down dream neighborhoods and end up on totally last minute dates to super unhealthy pizza places.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Because that's us. And I'm in love with every last bit of us. </div>
<br />
- - - - - - -<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><a href="http://www.600degreespizzeria.com/"><b>600 Degrees Pizza</b></a> is one of our family favorites. If you're local or visiting Austin, Texas, make sure to try the <a href="http://600degreespizzeria.com/" style="font-weight: bold;">#3</a>.</i></div>
<b><br /></b>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-32588228344987201802015-05-27T06:00:00.000-05:002015-05-27T06:00:02.734-05:0020 Things to Remember If You Love a Highly Creative Person<h2 style="margin: 40px 0px 12px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vXPOmFryhk8/VSauM-GS7iI/AAAAAAAAGSQ/PRuLUemHzr8/s1600/creative-people-380x225.jpg" /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">So I discovered this article, thanks to the ever growing curiosity of Facebook, and my mind has been blown. Not just because I resonate with every single point on this list, but this is my daughter too!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> Not sure why I ever doubted creativity would be in her bloodline, but I'm a little humored and embarrassed that a LifeHack list sealed the deal for me. #insertridiculousnessnow</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> Have a fun read through these, are you a creative too?!<br /> </span></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">1. They have a mind that never slows down.</span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">The creative mind is a non-stop machine fueled by intense curiosity. There is no pause button and no way to power it down. This can be exhausting at times but it is also the source of some crazy fun activities and conversations.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">2. They challenge the status quo.</span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Two questions drive every creative person more than any others: What if? and Why not? They question what everyone else takes at face value. While uncomfortable for those around them, it’s this ability that enables creatives to redefine what’s possible.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3. They embrace their genius even if others don’t.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Creative individuals would rather be authentic than popular. Staying true to who they are, without compromise, is how they define success even if means being misunderstood or marginalized.</span><span style="font-size: small;"><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">4. They have difficulty staying on task.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Highly creative people are energized by taking big mental leaps and starting new things. Existing projects can turn into boring slogs when the promise of something new and exciting grabs their </span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">attention.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: large;">5. They create in cycles.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Creativity has a rhythm that flows between periods of high, sometimes manic, activity and slow times that can feel like slumps. Each period is necessary and can’t be skipped just like the natural seasons are interdependent and necessary.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: large;">6. They need time to feed their souls.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">No one can drive cross-country on a single take of gas. In the same way, creative people need to frequently renew their source of inspiration and drive. Often, this requires solitude for periods of time.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">7. They need space to create.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Having the right environment is essential to peak creativity. It may be a studio, a coffee shop, or a quiet corner of the house. Wherever it is, allow them to set the boundaries and respect them.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><br />
8. They focus intensely.<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Highly creative people tune the entire world out when they’re focused on work. They cannot multi-task effectively and it can take twenty minutes to re-focus after being interrupted, even if the interruption was only twenty seconds.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><br />
9. They feel deeply.<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Creativity is about human expression and communicating deeply. It’s impossible to give what you don’t have, and you can only take someone as far as you have gone yourself. A writer once told me that an artist must scream at the page if they want a whisper to be heard. In the same way, a creative person must feel deep if they are to communicate deeply.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><br />
10. They live on the edge of joy and depression.<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Because they feel deeply, highly creative people often can quickly shift from joy to sadness or even depression. Their sensitive heart, while the source of their brilliance, is also the source of their suffering.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><br />
11. They think and speak in stories.<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Facts will never move the human heart like storytelling can. Highly creative people, especially artists, know this and weave stories into everything they do. It takes longer for them to explain something, explaining isn’t the point. The experience is.</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">12. They battle Resistance every day.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Highly creative people wake up every morning, fully aware of the need to grow and push themselves. But there is always the fear, Resistance as Pressfield calls it, that they don’t have what it takes. No matter how successful the person, that fear never goes away. They simply learn to deal with it, or not.</span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">- - - - - - - - - -</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Is this you too!? </span></span><br />
</h2>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Steven Pressfield, author of The War of Art, writes: </span><i style="font-weight: normal;">“Most of us have two lives. The life we live, and the unlived life within us. Between the two stands Resistance.”</i></span><br />
<div style="font-weight: bold;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/20-things-remember-you-love-highly-creative-person.html?dgs=1&fb_ref=Default" target="_blank">Click to finish reading the last 8 on Life Hack's original article.</a></i>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-56383412045398857322015-05-23T22:40:00.000-05:002015-05-23T22:47:04.949-05:00Dear Worship Leader, Set Them Up for Success<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="422" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/128509632?color=ffffff&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="750"></iframe><br />
<br />
<i><b>"You are good, You are good,</b></i><br />
<i><b>In the valley low, we trust because we know,</b></i><br />
<i><b>You are good, You are good,</b></i><br />
<i><b>We will praise Your name and give You everything,</b></i><br />
<i><b>For You are good!"</b></i><br />
<i><b>(<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/no-height-no-depth/id989463960">-Shoreline Music</a>)</b></i><br />
<br />
This is one of my favorite songs to lead. So much truth written at such a down-to-earth level. I also love when songs give the worshippers an action to take amidst the melodies.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>"</b><i style="font-weight: bold;">We lift our hands, we lift our hands to You, for You are good!" </i><br />
<br />
As a worship leader, when you can give people permission to worship freely and boldly, over and above what we may assume, it unlocks something.<br />
<br />
Try it. <b>Try placing a song in your set with some kind of action phrase and see if it unhinges your corporate worship. </b><br />
<br />
Set them up for a successful time of worship. This means, yes, removing any and all obstacles that may hinder them from pressing in.<b> But it also means, <i>giving them the tools</i> to build a life of worship. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>And sometimes, the tool is as simple as stated permission</b>.<i> </i><br />
<br />
- - - - - - - - -<br />
<i>If you're a worship leader, pretty please tell me what church you're at in the comments! I want to know and see and celebrate with you how God is moving in your community.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7443046909070497335.post-73087359565528196802015-04-15T08:15:00.003-05:002015-05-23T21:59:27.501-05:004 Things I Learned in Prison | Hope<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JvoDFQi9jP8/VSx7SvpvJII/AAAAAAAAGSw/joBy5FysM7o/s1600/Four-things-I-learned-in-prison-blog.png" /></div>
<i>You have nothing to say. There's no way she'll relate to you. Can grace really be this deep? </i><br />
<br />
This voice in my spirit would not relent. I don't know if it was my own doubts or some outside source, but it was ugly and mean.<br />
<br />
<i><b>The Word of God is sharper than any double edged sword</b></i>, I spit back. <i><b>Greater is HE that is in me than He that is in the world</b></i>, I repeated it to myself over and over again.<br />
<br />
I shook my hands out and bent my knees. I felt like I was going to buckle amidst my group of women.<br />
<br />
He came to seek out and save the lost. I was lost and so was she. He came for me and her. <br />
<br />
Sarah* was probably the seventh or eighth girl out the big metal door. She shuffled her white sneakers down the ramp and onto the cold damp concrete. <br />
<br />
One thing I noticed right away was the two different style of shoes the girls had on. Clean white sneakers and black cloth slip ons with rubber soles. <i>That's interesting,</i> I thought to myself. <br />
<br />
As she started looking around, I walked up to her and introduced myself. <i>"Hi, I'm Jules. What's your name?</i>" <br />
<br />
"<i>I'm Sarah,</i>" she said and as she did her eyes lit up and the corners of her mouth began to widen. Most of these women were numbers. Identity was considered a privilege they didn't have. <br />
<br />
The program started and we all sat on the cold hard concrete as the speaker told us her story of brokenness, abuse, and addiction. Sarah sat next to me.<br />
<br />
"Do you ever get tired of doing this?" the speaker asked. "Do you ever get tired of running and surviving?" Some of the women answered verbally and others just with their brows and nods.<br />
<br />
"Then listen to me, there is rest for you today. Jesus said, 'Come to ME and I will give you rest."<br />
<br />
Wiping the tears from my own welling eyes, I glanced at Sarah. Then I looked to my left, behind me, and in front of me and I saw it. I saw the walls cracking and heart gates opening. I saw women, just like you and me, sitting in what looked like an elementary school yard, feel the pain and the loss and the fear.<br />
<br />
I saw, old ones and young ones alike, covering their mouths with their sleeves because this woman told them we loved them.<br />
<br />
It was obvious they'd never heard that before, or if they did it was followed with a broken promise.<br />
<br />
"These women," the speaker continued, "They came here from all over the country just for you."<br />
<br />
We huddled into groups of five or six and Sarah, wiping her eyes and a little worried about her makeup, scooted into my group. We talked through the message of the Gospel and then the flood gates opened. It started with Sarah. <br />
<br />
<i>"I've been here for 15 years,</i>" she said, "<i>and I've got 10 more before I'm even up for parole. My youngest son is in his 20's and I never saw him grow up. I have five grand babies I've never even met. Every day I wake up and ask God why He's keeping me alive. How do I keep the faith with something like that?</i>"<br />
<br />
Remember how I noticed the two different styles of shoes? The girls who were in for a short-term didn't waste their commissary money on shoes. They'd get by with the cheap ones. But the sneakers, the clean white crisp sneakers, those girls had lost all hope. <br />
<br />
There it was again, that voice. <i>You're in way over your head</i>. <br />
<br />
With tears streaming down my face, I leaned in, looked her straight in the eyes and replied, "I have no idea. I have no idea what it's like for you. But I do know this: the God you pray to every morning, if it's the same God I talk to everyday, He is in the business of redemption." <br />
<br />
"<i>Even for someone like me?</i>" she asked. <br />
<br />
<i>Yes, absolutely yes. </i><br />
<br />
- - - - - - - - - -<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q5Mg0u1KzmM/VS3c7GWcBRI/AAAAAAAAGTI/EXyMqqsslbI/s1600/four-things-i-learned-in-prison-hope.png" /></div>
<b>As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by." </b><br />
<div>
<b>He called out, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" </b></div>
<div>
<b>Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, "What do you want me to do for you?" "Lord, I want to see," he replied. Jesus said to him, "Receive your sight; your faith has healed you." <br /><br />Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God.</b></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>Luke 18:35-43</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
Wholeness, healing, redemption; all things I tend to put subconscious guidelines on. For instance, it'll only come to situations like this and people like that. It's never too radical but definitely not impossible. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My finite mind has tried so hard to grasp the vast concept of grace and salvation, the undying hope of the world, but it was a pair of crisp white sneakers that made it click for me.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Hope is for everyone. <i>Everyone. </i>There is no limit on God's redemption plan. </div>
<div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">
This weekend Sarah was confronted with the same question Jesus asked the blind man, <i>What do you want me to do for you? </i></div>
<br />
And she answered, "Hope. I want you to give me hope." </div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>*Names changed to protect identity</i><br />
<i>This post is part of a four part series. Did you miss<b> <a href="http://juliannamorlet.blogspot.com/2015/04/4-things-i-learned-in-prison-faith.html">Part One</a></b>?</i></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7443046909070497335%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D7308735956552819680%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D1%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-JvoDFQi9jP8%252FVSx7SvpvJII%252FAAAAAAAAGSw%252FjoBy5FysM7o%252Fs1600%252FFour-things-I-learned-in-prison-blog.png%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7443046909070497335%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D7308735956552819680%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D1%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-JvoDFQi9jP8%252FVSx7SvpvJII%252FAAAAAAAAGSw%252FjoBy5FysM7o%252Fs1600%252FFour-things-I-learned-in-prison-blog.png%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Julianna Morlethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02992120053634077336noreply@blogger.com