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Proof of spending time in the Word is endurance

August 2, 2018 Mindy Larsen
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Last week my biceps were so sore from water skiing that I could hardly lift a gallon of milk. And this week, I can hardly sit on the toilet – it’s brutal getting down, painful getting up, and the toilet seat presses right onto my sore glutes and hamstrings. Go ahead and giggle. The struggle is real.  As uncomfortable as tight muscles can be, I love being sore because it’s proof that I worked hard and that I’m building strength.

If sore muscles and building strength are evidence of physical training, what’s the proof of spiritual training?

1 Timothy 4:8 says, “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”  According to this verse, the value of spiritual training is endless, which I completely agree with; but what I’m discovering lately is, proof that I’ve been spending time in the Word is my endurance increases. The more time I spend in the Word, or pray, or listen for the Lord to speak, the more able I am to endure whatever anxiety, fear, or anger comes my way.

Growing up playing volleyball, at the beginning of every season the captains of the team organized conditioning practice.  This practice was completely separate from our normal bump, set, spike drills and did not even involve a volleyball; instead, it consisted of sprints, running up and down the bleachers, ab exercises, and strength training. The point of conditioning was less about learning a specific skill and more about helping our bodies adapt or endure through an exercise program. The more endurance we built up in conditioning practice, the longer and stronger we could play at our peak performance during a vigorous match. 

What’s interesting to me is, when I notice that I’m out of breath quickly or struggling to lift my over packed beast of a suitcase into my trunk, the first thing out of my mouth is “Oh my gosh, I am so out of shape.”  Or – “Man, I need to hit the gym.” I see the evidence of weakness, and know the solution is to increase my physical training.

But when I feel anxious, or fearful, or I cling to anger like a life preserver, my first response isn’t, “When was the last time I was in the Word?” It’s more like, “This sucks. How do I make this stop? What’s wrong with me?” And further down the anxious rabbit hole I go. 

The last time I suffered an anxiety attack, I got mad that the Lord didn’t stop my anxiety in its tracks. With a tight chest and shallow breath, I accusingly cried out to Him saying, “God! Break me free from this!  I know you can – so why aren’t you? Break me free!”

I recited all the scripture I’ve locked into my mind for moments such as this. I proclaimed the name of Jesus. I cried out for help. Yet there I was, stuck in the trap of anxiety.

In that moment, I was so consumed with the fact that God hadn’t broken me free from the anxiety right when I wanted him to, that I lost sight of the truth that even though life with Jesus is not a guarantee that I will be freed from every hardship that comes my way, it is an absolute promise that I will be able to endure it. 

Spending time reading the Bible is not a “get out of anxiety free” card.  BUT it is an assurance and a guarantee that I will be able to endure. 

The more time I spend in the Word, the more I can lock the truth that Jesus will not let me go into my memory.  The more I can claim His victory over the evil one.  The more I can remember the truth that this too shall pass, that with Christ I am able to endure anything.

Just like strength training will enable me to lift heavier objects and run farther distances without losing my breath, spending time in the Word will give me strength and remind me that God is in control. The problem is, when I’m slacking in the “getting in the Word” department, my heart gets out of shape and I lose sight of that truth. 

If we don’t take the time to condition our bodies, we can’t expect them to up and run a half marathon out of nowhere.  And the same goes with spiritual training.  If we want to see the proof, endurance in moments of weakness, we need to constantly and consistently prepare our hearts. 

I don’t know about you but I need to hit the “weights” and build up my spiritual endurance.  I want to be so strong that whenever weakness shows its face, there will be absolutely no doubt in my mind that I am able to endure.  Together let's bathe ourselves in the Word and Truth of our heavenly Father and savior Jesus Christ. Let's fix our eyes on His truth, make Jesus’ name known, and endure any storm that comes our way.

In anxiety Tags anxiety, scripture, endurance, power of scripture, 2018
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Dependent on the Lord

July 26, 2018 Mindy Larsen
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I have been gone every single weekend since the beginning of June. It has been one engagement after another making this an uncharacteristically crazy season. One night last week, I sat next to my hubby on the couch and nervously asked, "Do you feel like we're disconnected?"I didn't think we were, but I wanted to make sure that he was on the same page.

"No... I actually feel like this season has brought us closer!" He said.

A tentative smile spread across my face as sweet chills ran up my spine. "Really? How so?"

After a brief moment, he responded, "I've intentionally poured more into you. And you've been more dependent on me."

In two short sentences, he described this season in our marriage perfectly.  Digging my heels in to writing my book proposal and wrestling anxiety that has been more intense than usual, I have been dependent on my husband like never before.

He’s been my…

  • Reprieve when my brain can’t pen words on a page anymore
  • Comic relief when I want to poke my eyes out
  • Gentle hand on my arm when I need grounding
  • Strong affirmer – “You are doing great.  You are fighting so hard.” – when it feels like my anxiety is winning 
  • Constant, whole-hearted, no-limits source of love

There was one night this summer where he was out of town for work and his absence was uncomfortable. Oh my goodness. I thought. Without Chris here to break me free from the mind circles within me, or shift my focus from anxiety to laughter, I feel like a hot mess.

In that moment, I recognized how very dependent on my husband I have become. That’s how we are supposed to be in marriage; clinging to each other in a helpful, support-each-other-so-well sort of way that the presence is noticeably different in their absence. 

Reflecting on how much I’ve learned to depend on him in this season was a sweet moment, but it was also a strong reminder of how the Lord wants us to depend on Him. 

My husband is a trust-worthy, encouraging, loving man; but his goodness cannot even touch the greatness of our heavenly Father who lovingly, tenderly holds us fast even when we don’t recognize it.

A metaphor that has been resonating with me lately is thinking about the Lord as our anchor. No matter how crazy the surface gets - storms, 10 foot waves, or a peaceful presence that only a gentle breath of wind can disturb - He grounds us.  We cannot and will not flip over, even in a tsunami, because He is not just one of those sissy anchors that looks like your stereotypical sailor tattoo.  He’s an anchor the size of the size of a cruise ship – one that looks like a bear trap sunk into the depths of the sea, clawing the earth so deeply that no wind can shift its location.  Nothing can loosen His grip on us. No storm, big or small, makes Him any less dependable – He is always there.

Leaning into Chris in this busy season has been life giving and incredibly beneficial for both of us and our marriage, but even more important than being dependent on my husband is being wholeheartedly dependent on the Lord. 

Allowing ourselves to depend on someone is not always easy. Our common fear is - What if I lean in to someone and they let me down? Unfortunately this is a reality that we must face with fellow humans, but not with our everlasting Father.  He will never, ever let us go.

This truth brings comfort to my soul and a steadiness to my anxious heart.  My prayer is that it might do the same for you.  Together let’s stand on the ledge and trust fall into the steady, capable, dependable arms of our Savior.

photo by Caroline Howard

In marriage, anxiety Tags marriage, dependence, 2018
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My niece's arrival - witnessing childbirth

April 13, 2018 Mindy Larsen
Mindy Larsen birth photography

For the past 2 weeks, every time I went to bed I clicked the button on the side of my phone, raising the volume to the max.  Months earlier, my pregnant sister and brother-in-law asked me to support them in labor and delivery as doula and photographer. The plan was to message me when contractions started and I’d meet them at the hospital.  I wasn’t going to miss anything if my sister, now rapidly approaching her due date, went into labor in the middle of the night. 

On April 4th at 3:21 am a loud ding startled me from sleep.  Reaching for my phone, it didn’t register until through blurry eyes I read, “Sooooo it’s happening…” My eyes snapped open, and with a large gasp, I smacked Chris across the chest.  “Chris!! It’s happening!!! She’s in labor!!”  The second text read, “Keep sleeping.  I’ll keep you posted.” But there was no way that was happening; this was it! 

Chris and I prayed together, and I was up and into the shower.  Thankfully a few weeks earlier, I made a list for my own hospital bag.  Essential oils to diffuse in the room, snacks and drinks to sustain me and my brother-in-law, sweatpants, water, and my camera.  Taking a lot of deep breaths, I got myself ready, packed my bag and waited. 

The waiting period was excruciating.  My nerves, anxious tendencies and the emotional high of what was about to happen pressed me to the floor of my office.  Like a cat, I curled my arms and legs underneath my body and pressed my forehead into the carpet.  I’m going to throw up. I thought.  The mental battle between the lies telling me I couldn’t handle this and the truth that I could do it, and would do it no matter what, was brutal.  One might’ve thought I was in labor with all the deep, vocal yoga breathing I was doing to pull myself together.  I was a full on hot mess.  And then the text came – “We’re packing up the car, see you in a minute”.  They decided to pick me up on the way (we live a block away from each other) so I peeled myself off the floor, put one uncertain foot in front of the other and chanted in the dark, “I have power in Jesus’ name. I have power in Jesus’ name.”  

As soon as I buckled my seatbelt, and breathed with my sister through a contraction, I knew I could do this.  I had prepared myself for this moment with lots of prayer, a book called The Birth Partner, and wisdom from a doula friend.  With Christ as my rock, I was ready. 

Little did I know, this was just the beginning of the 35 long hours it would take to bring my niece into the world.

The morning progressed quite beautifully.  3 cm, 4.5 cm, to 6 cm – my sister was well on her way and handling each contraction like a rock star.  Settled into her beautiful, spacious room at the Aurora Women’s Pavilion birthing center, the mood was light and the energy was positive.  She ordered breakfast, laughed, walked, squatted, showered and breathed through contractions.  Like a well-oiled machine, my brother-in-law and I took turns squeezing her hips to relieve pain during contractions and resting in between. 

At 2:00pm, my mom and dad left the room (they were at the hospital the entire time, too) and the nurse was in between rounds.  I told my brother-in-law to sleep and planted myself in a comfortable rocking chair.  Rocking gently, calming my own nerves and matching the tone of the room, a soft smile rose on my face as tears welled in my eyes.  The peace in the room was overwhelming.  Tears slipped out my right eye, dampening my cheek as I admired my sweet sister innately, seemingly effortlessly breathing through a contraction while she slept.  Here I sat in this monumental moment, this thin place before my niece’s birth - I was overcome.  

By 6:00 pm, things took a turn.  My sister was visibly more uncomfortable and the cervix check informed, no progress.  Steady at 6 cm, exhausted and wanting to save energy for the big push, she decided it was time for an epidural.  Peace drained out of the room as the anesthesiologist rattled through risks and warning signs.  My chest tightened and my stomach lurched; I knew how terrified my sister was in this moment and that this necessary, but unexpected change to our sweetly developed rhythm would be a hurdle. 

This was a heavy moment for me – having to step out while the procedure took place I felt utterly and completely out of control, which I was. It was ultimately a waiting game now, and inactive waiting in this uncharted territory did not come easy; I was a fish out of water.  Now in the guest lounge, I contested sleep until my husband spoke tender words of assurance.  “You will get back into your rhythm babe, but right now you need to rest.”  45 minutes later, the largest chunk of sleep I would have that night, I sprang back into action and sent my mom to take her turn to rest. 

As April 4th became April 5th, progress was slow but steady.   Between changing positions to urge baby down and a pitocin drip to get things going, my sister rested and threw up.  Yeah… I know, completely unfortunate, although in and of itself it’s a great sign indicating a progression to the final phase of labor. 

At 3:50 am, 28 hours after her first contraction, my mom and I heard the nurse proclaim the news – she’s complete! I jumped out of the rocking chair, as we looked at each other and cheered silently and clapped without sound.  “Time to wake her husband?” I asked the nurse.  “Yes, I think so!” she happily exclaimed.   It was time for the pushing to begin. 

Exhausted but eager, my sister began to push.  10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 break, 10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 and back in again.  The nurse warned us that first time mom’s often push for as long as 2-3 hours, but 3 hours later, baby was still happily inside.  My sister was exhausted and craving more “epidural juice” and my brother-in-law and I were in survival mode.  Wait for a contraction to peak.  Hold her legs.  Count her through 4 pushes.  Cheer her on.  Breathe.  Step back.  Sway (my new favorite way to cope with anxiety).  Take a drink of water.  Take a quick walk while my mom stepped in for some rounds.  Do it all over and over again.

At 6:16 am, in zombie land, I texted my husband, “I will not be having a baby anytime soon…lol.”  But what I was really thinking was… “Or ever.  Yeah, maybe not ever.”

Four hours into pushing, conversations between the staff started to happen.  “Is she face up?”  “Do we need to turn the baby?”  “Is mom getting too tired?” And finally, an hour and a half later, the dreaded discussion, “Baby is still happy, but given that you’ve been pushing for 5.5 hours, it’s time to consider the vacuum or a c-section.”  Fatigue and defeat lined my sister’s furrowed brow.  “Don’t get defeated,” I commanded. “We’re not there yet!  Right now you need to rest. We’ll figure it out when the doctor comes.” 

With another contraction on the rise, it was decision time.  A doctor came in to check baby’s status and we started cheering my sister on. “Show her what you got!” “Let’s push that baby out!” “We don’t need a vacuum – you’re so close!” “You got this!”  This exceedingly tense moment was drenched with an abundance of encouragement.  My sister’s hospital bed was surrounded – my brother-in-law up by her head, me holding one leg, my mom beside me, 2 midwives, a doctor, and a nurse – and we were all cheering and championing my sister to press this baby into the world. 

What followed was truly the most amazing thing I have ever witnessed (and I do not use that kind of statement lightly – I’m dead serious).  It’s as if the threat of needing other options to bring baby girl into the world was the perfect motivation, because my sister pushed with every ounce of strength in her body.  Surprised, with an excited but panicked note in her voice, the doctor who was there to explore the other options said, “Oh my goodness! Baby is right here!”

“Keep going Steph!” We exclaimed. “She’s so close!”  I could see my niece’s head; she was crowning!  I shook off tears now blurring my vision and focused on encouraging my sister.  “Push push push push push!”

Beside me was a quick shuffle as the doctor cried out– “Oh my goodness! This baby is coming!  We don’t have a delivery team ready – get a team ready!”  In a rush, nurses and technicians threw on blue gowns, gloves, and hairnets to do all the necessary things to usher this baby into the world. 

Holding my sister’s left leg, my view of this epic showcase was unobstructed.  Baby girl’s head covered lightly with dark brown hair was now fully emerged! One of the midwife’s hands, which I feared might squish her, pulled my niece gently as my sister groaned and gave one ginormous final push.  Her head, her neck, her shoulders, her long arms and tiny fingers were out! The rest of her small body followed in a blur as she slid into the world and was immediately placed on her mom’s chest.  Tears streamed down my face and I proclaimed “Praise Jesus! She’s here!”

Tension broke and celebration erupted!! “You did it!! She’s here! Good job mama!” Even the midwives wiped tears from their eyes as this strong, boss of a woman, pushed for 6 long hours (the longest they’d ever experienced) to bring the most precious, perfect little girl named Lola into the world. 

In that moment, so completely overwhelmed by the display of God’s awesome wonder and power, my “I’m never having kids” thought transitioned to, “That was the most amazing thing I’ve ever seen.  Maybe someday…”  

All the stress, anxiety, tension, fear, defeat was rushed away in one massive gush like the blood that now poured out of my sister’s body.  No joke, one thing I had not expected was the surge of blood that followed baby Lola out; it was like a bad horror movie.  Think Monty Python and the Holy Grail, when they cut the black knight’s arms off and fake blood spurts out. Let’s just say, I now have a memento of my niece’s birth on my shoe.

In awe of what my sister’s body had just done, I couldn’t help but look on as the placenta emerged and the cord was cut; everything was finished.  I’m so glad the midwife noticed my interest and asked if I wanted to see the placenta, its job now complete. God’s creative mastermind was again reflected in this beautiful organ, often called the tree of life.  Google it, it’s gorgeous. 

My mom and I completely overjoyed, shared some hugs and tears, and looked on as the new mom and dad cried and cooed over their precious little girl.  Relinquishing my role as doula, I put on my photographer hat and snapped away. 

Making my way around the room to capture this tender moment in time, one of the midwives paused me and said, “We found your calling... We both [her and the other midwife] agree that you should be a doula.”  Caught off guard, I said, “Wow!  Really?”  With assurance she nodded - “You knew exactly what to say to calm your sister right in the moments she needed it most – you could have a future as a birth worker.”   I was taken aback; with my right hand pressed to my chest by shock and thanksgiving, I said “Wow. Thank you. That means SO much.”

What she didn’t realize was, her affirmation was exactly what I needed after my job was finished and baby girl was here.   After all the prayers, all the preparation, all the anxiety, I had done my job and done it well.  It was as if the Lord had spoken through the midwives’ sweet affirmation to tell me, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” I was astounded.

Praise dripped out of room 2009 in the birthing center – the Lord had been our rock in the heavy moments, our breath when the tension was high, and gave us an epic (I can’t stop using that word) display of the wonder and power of His creation through the birth of His precious daughter, Lola.

“For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
 
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
– Psalm 139:13-14

Childbirth is the craziest, most intense, but earth shatteringly beautiful thing.  My sweet sister, I am so proud of you and eternally grateful for this opportunity to stand beside you, and your husband, and witness the birth of your daughter.  My life was impacted by this monumental day.

In motherhood, anxiety Tags 2018, childbirth, niece, family
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Mindy Larsen by Alex Good

hello!

I'm a housewife, kitty mama, writer, and I love Jesus. I live with my husband in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin and I write because of the Lord.
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I'm so glad you're here!

xo Mindy

Insert a ferocious lion roar and that’s probably how Finn feels right about now. This poor peanut has had itchy skin for the last 2 months and we cannot get to the bottom of it. We’ve added humidifiers, cleaned our house like it’s our job, changed dishes, taken him to our vet, visited a nutritionist, and we are baffled. Something is setting off his system, so much so that he’s even scratched fur off at times, and we have yet to figure it out. ⠀
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Throughout this process, trying one thing after the next to no avail, I’ve developed a greater empathy for mamas with sick babies. Finn may not be my human descent but he’s my baby just the same and not knowing what’s going on and seeing him in pain tears me up. ⠀
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If this is your struggle- fur baby, human baby, or perhaps your own- I applaud you. The strength it takes to be patient and wait out an answer is not easy. The truth I’m clinging to today as we approach another hopeful solution is- “He is before all things and in Him all things hold together.” God cares for each part of His creation; he does not neglect a single one.⠀
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#kittymama #furbaby #finnstagram #catsofinstagram #documentedfaith #documentyourfaith #milwaukeeblogger #hopewriterlife #hopewriters #graceupongrace #getaftergrateful #lifeoflegacy #thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney
It seems I may have struck a chord with many of you yesterday when I talked about the frustrating reality that many people use a tricky follow/unfollow tactic to grow their following here on Instagram. In case you missed it, check the highlight on my feed. ⠀
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If you're still feeling miffed about the whole thing, I'm with you. And here's how I am keeping my eyes fixed on truth. Isaiah 12:4-5 says, "Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world." ⠀
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I'm not here to make a name for myself (if I was, let's be honest, the follow/unfollow game would be pretty tempting). I'm here to make known among the nations what God has done and proclaim that his name is exalted. He has indeed done glorious things; that's what I'm here for. ⠀
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Let's not lose hope when our numbers drop. Let's not be tempted to believe that without them, we are not successful. Instead, let's trust in our amazing God who goes before us, faithfully proclaim His goodness, and leave the rest up to Him. ⠀
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#igrowgodsway #speaklife #communityovercompetition #liveauthentic #graceupongrace #gritandvirtue #ezermagazine #faithblogger #hopewriters #hopewriterlife #wildandfree #propelwomen #postwithpurpose #creativeworldview #encouragementgallery #lampandlight #womenintheword #thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney #milwaukeeblogger #cultivatewhatmatters #instagramadvantage #createdtocreate
5.5 years ago, my sister was traveling in Europe with a friend. While she was gone we found the house we’d been hunting for. “Surprise! While you were gone we bought a house. We’re neighbors!!” Literally 10 houses down.

We’ve made a lot of sweet memories living down the street- from progressive dinners to unexpected drop-ins and “I’ll be down in 5 minutes”- but being so close has proven even sweeter now that Lola is in the world.

This morning, I trekked down the snowy street, knocked on the window of @rocketbabybakery and received the squintiest, two-teethed grin from Lola. My brother-in-law said that she has a special smiley face when she sees me, and that truth makes me teary.

Living so close has given me an irreplaceable opportunity to build a bond with my niece; I’m immensely thankful for God’s provision in finding this house and for the incredible blessing that my sister and brother-in-law welcome me in so wholly to their lives and raising their daughter.

That’s my #goodlist today - what’s one thing on yours? .
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#documentyourfaith #hopewriterlife #speaklife #milwaukeeblogger #graceupongrace #faithblogger #getaftergrateful #lifeoflegacy #igrowgodsway #flashesofdelight #midwestisbest #theusiscooltoo #discoverwisconsin #thegoodlist #whatlolataughtmetoday
Hi my name is Mindy and this was the best selfie I got after attempting for far longer than I'd like to admit. 😆 It's probably more accurate than if I'd captured a non-funny face one because let's be real, how often do our Insta-images fully reflect the moment we're in? ⠀
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One thing you can expect whenever you visit this space of mine is, I will always be truthful; authenticity is super important to me. That's why I talk about things like my struggle with anxiety, the scripture that's challenging me, or my lack in selfie skills 😉⠀
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So in the vein of truth, here’s where I’m at right now: ⠀
- still in bed⠀
- haven’t washed my hair since Thursday and don’t plan on it today (after I get my hair colored I try not to wash it for as long as I can stand it. As if that somehow makes the color last longer 😆😆)⠀
- I’m about to get up and make pancakes with the hubby ⠀
- I’ve been feeling sleepy and low capacity lately- and I’m working on not guilting myself for that and owning it instead. There are seasons to crush it and there are seasons to lay low - and that’s okay. ⠀
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What about you? Tell me where you’re at today. Still in your pjs? Sleepy? Are you in a crush it or lay low season? ⠀
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#getaftergrateful #hopewriterlife #milwaukeeblogger #thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney #postwithpurpose #faithblogger #youbelong #anxiety #wellwateredwomen #documentyourfaith #documentedfaith #communityovercompetition #speaklife
I will never abandon you. || These are the words I heard the Lord say to me as I leaned against the window, deep breathing my way through a tight chest brought on by anxiety. I felt it bubbling as we waited to board and I looked on covetously at a young couple laughing in line ahead of us. "Oh to feel light and joyful. Can I please be one of them?" I thought.⠀
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Staring at the white fluffy clouds, angry at my inability to quiet my anxiety and jealous of everyone who does not know this struggle, I heard this lie go through my mind - "You are alone in this." But as quick as the lie slithered into my consciousness the Lord crushed it with the truth that He will NEVER abandon me. ⠀
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When Christ hung on the cross in agony, he cried out in a loud voice, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?" In this pivotal moment in history, God abandoned His son, letting Jesus bear the full weight of sin and death, a weight that He didn't deserve to bear - SO THAT we would never taste the anguish of being without Him. ⠀
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In this moment on the plane, I felt the weight of what Christ did for me so tangibly. He died, and then rose from the dead so that I might never be without Him; so that in the good days and the heavy ones, I might know and feel the presence of God sustaining me. ⠀
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If you don't know Jesus, get to know Him. He died and rose so that you, too, will know in confidence that you are never ever ever alone.⠀
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#documentedfaith #thisisthegoodfight #anxiety #crushinganxiety #speaklife #mentalhealth #faithblogger #graceupongrace #postwithpurpose #wellwateredwomen #ezermagazine #dearlymagazine #wordbeforeworld #getaftergrateful #lifeoflegacy⠀
#thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney #wildandfree #propelwomen #incourage #encouragementgallery #lampandlight #womenintheword #hopewriterlife ⠀
Happy Friday, friends! It's 17 degrees in WI, which feels like shorts weather in comparison to the - 25 degrees it was a few days ago. It's been a bit since I hopped on #fridayintroductions - so today, I'm sharing 5 random facts you might not know about me.⠀
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🏐 I play volleyball once a week with a team who has been together for the past 7 years.⠀
💇 I love changing my hairstyle - it's been super long, short, blonde, dark brunette, grey, had chunks of purple - I've pretty much done it all.⠀
✍️ I've always wanted to be a writer - I feel super blessed to be fulfilling my childhood dream.⠀
🧝‍♀️ Lord of the Rings, all things Marvel, and the Fast and Furious series are some of my favorite movies.⠀
🏅 I've discovered an important discipline to bring light into my struggle with anxiety - to be intentional about counting my wins. ⠀
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This picture was taken on Miami Beach where my anxiety unexpectedly spiked. In the past, if a trip was laced with anxiety, I'd chalk it up as a loss - the entire time tainted by my struggle. But not anymore. COUNTING THE WINS - intentionally taking note of lighter, freer moments, or times when I squashed anxiety with a giant "Not today!" - helps me claim Christ's victory and reminds me that there is sweet, sweet life amidst anxiety. ⠀
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If you feel anxious, count the fruit. Look for the moments you feel lighter, take note of the Lord's faithfulness and protection, and see that even in the heavy, life is so good. ⠀
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#thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney⠀
#getaftergrateful #wildandfree #propelwomen #postwithpurpose #encouragementgallery #lampandlight #womenintheword #graceupongrace #christianblogger #faithblogger #mentalhealthawareness #anxiety #crushinganxiety #loveminblog #wellwateredwomen #milwaukeeblogger #hopewriters  #gritandvirtue #livefullyalive #youbelong #flashesofdelight
Walking along Miami Beach last weekend, we noticed something odd - two flags hung on the lifeguard stand, neither of them a welcoming green beckoning swimmers to throw their bodies into the water. Yet, the ocean wasn't empty; couples dove into the waves, and kids splashed in the shallows. "The flags must not be that bad then, right?"⠀
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Red = High hazard, high surf or strong current⠀
Purple = Dangerous marine life⠀
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Perplexed, we walked towards the water and there, in plain sight, scattered every few feet along the shore were Portuguese man-of-war. Well known for its excruciatingly painful sting, these clear jellyfish-like creatures use long, venom-filled dark blue tentacles to paralyze their prey. Even a washed up, dead man-of-war can deliver an agonizing sting.⠀
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"What on earth are people thinking?!" We wondered. Why would they ignore the red and purple flags? Or if they somehow missed those, are they blind to the pain-inducing creatures lying right on the beach?!⠀
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This got me thinking... how often do we operate like this outside the beach? Maybe we see a warning sign, a metaphorical red flag telling us not to enter into a certain situation, or say the mean words flying through our heads and we proceed anyways. Or maybe it's the opposite; we're too busy to see the green flag calling us towards a peace-filled time of celebration and rest.⠀
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One of my goals this year, is to pay better attention to the flags - to listen for the Holy Spirit's guidance - and act accordingly. The Lord doesn't leave us to navigate life alone. He knows best what I need, whether it's rest or pressing forward, community or solitude, and I want to lean into that; to be a faithful, obedient child of God who trusts her Father's leading.⠀
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#miamibeach #southbeach #graceupongrace #hopewriterlife #hopewriters #wellwateredwomen #thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney #shereadstruth #cultivatewhatmatters #milwaukeeblogger #faithblogger #postwithpurpose #documentedfaith #lifeoflegacy #getaftergrateful #wordbeforeworld
When I am overwhelmed... He is my sanctuary.⠀
When my anxiety is high... He is my sanctuary.⠀
When the chaos around me feels deafening... He is my sanctuary. ⠀
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One of my anxiety-based fears is that I'll be stuck in a moment with no reprieve - no way out, no relief. When I came across this truth while reading Isaiah 8, I paused, and locked it into my memory. No matter what is going on around us, we can retreat and find peace in the Lord. ⠀
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The next time I feel stuck, I'm claiming and proclaiming Christ as my sanctuary - my safe place where I know I'll find peace. ⠀
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#getaftergrateful #lifeoflegacy #anxiety #crushinganxiety #loveminblog #wellwateredwomen #womenintheword #postwithpurpose #faithblogger #sheleadsdaily #wildandfree #propelwomen #postwithpurpose #creativeworldview #encouragementgallery #graceupongrace #christianblogger #milwaukeeblogger #bedeeplyrooted #hopewriters @hopewriters #hopewriterlife #writetheword #thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney
This weekend we trekked to my parents’ house and headed out into the biting cold for a snow adventure. Fully enveloped in snow pants, boots, hat, and gloves I took a trip down memory lane as I slid down the hill in the backyard on a disc. After a short while, one by one my family members disappeared indoors to escape the cold; but I stuck it out. ⠀
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Leaving boot prints in the fresh powder, snow pants swishing with each step, I tromped into the middle of the yard, snapped some photos, made a snow angel, pumped my feet in the air on my childhood swing set, and even plopped myself in the snow to drink in the scene, and a Voodoo Ranger IPA (when in Wisconsin…) ⠀
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Pulling the icy air into my nostrils, refreshment filled my lungs as I recognized, being alone – with a break from distractions and all – is restorative for me. ⠀
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That hasn’t always been the case; in fact, a short brainstorming session revealed that this practice and value of being alone started after I got married. With a husband who works a lot of hours, I had two choices – be frustrated that he wasn’t home some nights, or learn to embrace and love alone time. ⠀
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Being alone isn’t always free of loneliness, that’s something that I’ve learned to accept – but I believe if we allow it, it’s always full of restoration. For it’s in the quiet, in being alone we get to learn more about ourselves and hear wisdom from our Father. ⠀
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Would you agree? Is alone time a practice you enjoy?⠀
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@hopewriters #hopewriterlife #milwaukeeblogger #graceupongrace #faithblogger #hopewriters #pursuerest #thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney #holidayseason #dailydevotional #adventdevotional #lampandlight #propelwomen #wellwateredwomen #givemejesus #goodnewsfeed #wordbeforeworld #itiswell #speaklife #getaftergrateful #christianwriter #documentedfaith #documentyourfaith
Chris has been on a bread making kick and I am not mad about it. On tonight’s menu- freshly baked fluffy focaccia topped with olive oil, onions, rosemary, and salt. It tastes as delicious as it smells. Holy yum. ⠀
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#getaftergrateful #lifeoflegacy #thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #milwaukeeblogger #adventuretogether #marriagegoals #whatscooking
We're getting a snowstorm! We're getting a snowstorm! And I'm so stinkin' excited about it. This has been an odd Wisconsin winter with very little snow. In fact, this beautiful scene - the last snowstorm I experienced - was when we visited Colorado Springs in November. It was 54 degrees one day, and a full blown 9" producing snowstorm the next. ⠀
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In case you're like, "girl, why on earth do you like snow?" here are a few of my favorite things to do during a snowstorm.⠀
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🍷Head to a cozy local spot like @therubytap with big windows and watch the snow fall with friends. ⠀
🔥Use the excuse to snuggle in at home in front of the fire. ⠀
❄️Adventure out, by foot, or by car if it's not super slippery, just for the fun of it and for the view. ⠀
☃️Build a snowman - duh! It's been a few years since I've done that. ⠀
🤫Soak up the way the world gets quiet as the snow piles grow.⠀
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I plan to do most, if not all, of those things during this storm - I cannot wait!⠀
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#gardenofthegodspark #coloradosprings #midwestisbest #theusiscooltoo #getaftergrateful #lifeoflegacy #thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney #milwaukee #milwaukeeblogger #graceupongrace #pursuewhatislovely #livethelittlethings #fridayintroductions ⠀
#wellwateredwomen #givemejesus #goodnewsfeed #wordbeforeworld #itiswell #speaklife #hopewriters⠀
Current mood: wiped. Today my mind got stuck in an avalanche of worst case scenarios - a pattern of distorted thinking that often leads me to an anxiety spin out. Running through each nonsensical what if, processing, speaking truth, defeating a lie, and doing it all over again, and again, and again, my brain is toast.⠀
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The past 6 months I've learned a lot about the science of anxiety and my own personal triggers. And the most impactful truth I've learned is, I have the power to control my anxiety. I have much more to say on this, but since my mind is a pile of mush at this current moment, let me leave you with this. ⠀
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YOU ARE NOT STUCK in your anxiety - it may feel like it in this moment, but I promise you there is freedom in Jesus' name. ⠀
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The one thing that ALWAYS quiets my mind is proclaiming God's truth. So tonight I'm grounding myself in the strength of Psalm 91:14-16 that tells me - God will rescue me, protect me, be with me in trouble, and DELIVER me. ⠀
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Anxiety is not the boss of me - and it's not the boss of you either 💪 P.S. If you want to get your hands on 10 scripture cards with verses to combat anxiety, tap the link in my profile. This card came in extra handy today, and my prayer is that it might encourage you too.⠀
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@hopewriters #hopewriterlife #crushinganxiety #anxiety #speaklife #mentalhealth #thisisthegoodfight🥊 #documentedfaith #getaftergrateful #lifeoflegacy⠀
#thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney #wellwateredwomen #womenintheword #postwithpurpose #faithblogger #sheleadsdaily #wildandfree #propelwomen #creativeworldview #encouragementgallery #preachtoyourself #graceupongrace #milwaukeeblogger #ezermagazine

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Insert a ferocious lion roar and that’s probably how Finn feels right about now. This poor peanut has had itchy skin for the last 2 months and we cannot get to the bottom of it. We’ve added humidifiers, cleaned our house like it’s our job, changed dishes, taken him to our vet, visited a nutritionist, and we are baffled. Something is setting off his system, so much so that he’s even scratched fur off at times, and we have yet to figure it out. ⠀
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Throughout this process, trying one thing after the next to no avail, I’ve developed a greater empathy for mamas with sick babies. Finn may not be my human descent but he’s my baby just the same and not knowing what’s going on and seeing him in pain tears me up. ⠀
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If this is your struggle- fur baby, human baby, or perhaps your own- I applaud you. The strength it takes to be patient and wait out an answer is not easy. The truth I’m clinging to today as we approach another hopeful solution is- “He is before all things and in Him all things hold together.” God cares for each part of His creation; he does not neglect a single one.⠀
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#kittymama #furbaby #finnstagram #catsofinstagram #documentedfaith #documentyourfaith #milwaukeeblogger #hopewriterlife #hopewriters #graceupongrace #getaftergrateful #lifeoflegacy #thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney
It seems I may have struck a chord with many of you yesterday when I talked about the frustrating reality that many people use a tricky follow/unfollow tactic to grow their following here on Instagram. In case you missed it, check the highlight on my feed. ⠀
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If you're still feeling miffed about the whole thing, I'm with you. And here's how I am keeping my eyes fixed on truth. Isaiah 12:4-5 says, "Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world." ⠀
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I'm not here to make a name for myself (if I was, let's be honest, the follow/unfollow game would be pretty tempting). I'm here to make known among the nations what God has done and proclaim that his name is exalted. He has indeed done glorious things; that's what I'm here for. ⠀
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Let's not lose hope when our numbers drop. Let's not be tempted to believe that without them, we are not successful. Instead, let's trust in our amazing God who goes before us, faithfully proclaim His goodness, and leave the rest up to Him. ⠀
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#igrowgodsway #speaklife #communityovercompetition #liveauthentic #graceupongrace #gritandvirtue #ezermagazine #faithblogger #hopewriters #hopewriterlife #wildandfree #propelwomen #postwithpurpose #creativeworldview #encouragementgallery #lampandlight #womenintheword #thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney #milwaukeeblogger #cultivatewhatmatters #instagramadvantage #createdtocreate
5.5 years ago, my sister was traveling in Europe with a friend. While she was gone we found the house we’d been hunting for. “Surprise! While you were gone we bought a house. We’re neighbors!!” Literally 10 houses down.

We’ve made a lot of sweet memories living down the street- from progressive dinners to unexpected drop-ins and “I’ll be down in 5 minutes”- but being so close has proven even sweeter now that Lola is in the world.

This morning, I trekked down the snowy street, knocked on the window of @rocketbabybakery and received the squintiest, two-teethed grin from Lola. My brother-in-law said that she has a special smiley face when she sees me, and that truth makes me teary.

Living so close has given me an irreplaceable opportunity to build a bond with my niece; I’m immensely thankful for God’s provision in finding this house and for the incredible blessing that my sister and brother-in-law welcome me in so wholly to their lives and raising their daughter.

That’s my #goodlist today - what’s one thing on yours? .
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#documentyourfaith #hopewriterlife #speaklife #milwaukeeblogger #graceupongrace #faithblogger #getaftergrateful #lifeoflegacy #igrowgodsway #flashesofdelight #midwestisbest #theusiscooltoo #discoverwisconsin #thegoodlist #whatlolataughtmetoday
Hi my name is Mindy and this was the best selfie I got after attempting for far longer than I'd like to admit. 😆 It's probably more accurate than if I'd captured a non-funny face one because let's be real, how often do our Insta-images fully reflect the moment we're in? ⠀
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One thing you can expect whenever you visit this space of mine is, I will always be truthful; authenticity is super important to me. That's why I talk about things like my struggle with anxiety, the scripture that's challenging me, or my lack in selfie skills 😉⠀
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So in the vein of truth, here’s where I’m at right now: ⠀
- still in bed⠀
- haven’t washed my hair since Thursday and don’t plan on it today (after I get my hair colored I try not to wash it for as long as I can stand it. As if that somehow makes the color last longer 😆😆)⠀
- I’m about to get up and make pancakes with the hubby ⠀
- I’ve been feeling sleepy and low capacity lately- and I’m working on not guilting myself for that and owning it instead. There are seasons to crush it and there are seasons to lay low - and that’s okay. ⠀
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What about you? Tell me where you’re at today. Still in your pjs? Sleepy? Are you in a crush it or lay low season? ⠀
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#getaftergrateful #hopewriterlife #milwaukeeblogger #thepursuitofjoy #fillyourcup #inbeautyandchaos #liveauthentically #simplemoments #intentionalliving #alifeofintention #selfgrowthjourney #postwithpurpose #faithblogger #youbelong #anxiety #wellwateredwomen #documentyourfaith #documentedfaith #communityovercompetition #speaklife

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