about

Meet Mandy

Welcome to my little place of faith, family, and farm life. I am so glad you’re here! My heart is to encourage, inspire, and bring a little bit of joy to everyone who visits me here. Follow along, and we will create a community to grow in our faith, discover beauty, and find joy together. I am looking forward to taking this journey with you!

life is better together

The Reason Behind

Green Valley Grace

Fall 2023

I am starting this space as an outlet for me as my boys are now both in high school, my husband is back to working in an office, and I find myself no longer needed to drive anyone to school, attend PTA meetings, or serve as a classroom mom. Home alone for most of the day, I finally have time to work on all those projects I’ve always said I want to do; to actually sit down and write…but I am also looking for community. A way to connect with other women and encourage one other in our faith. To sharpen our skills as homemakers and homesteaders and learn from each other. A place where we create beauty – whether it’s art, a meal, or simply making the bed. It is my prayer that this would be a place to find faith, hope, and love, and to have some fun along the way. I am excited to welcome you here, and invite you to be a part of this community!

"And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love."

- 1 Corinthians 13:13

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A Place to Belong

Have you ever wanted to find a place where you feel like you belong?  Where you are free to be the real you without someone looking at you like you’re weird or thinking you’re too much or maybe not enough? Where you can take off the mask and drop the performance and just…be?

So many of us have insecurities and are sure that if people really knew us, they wouldn’t like us. It's time to stop believing that lie! The truth is, each one of us is valuable. We all have something to offer, some beauty to create, some legacy to leave, and love to give.

I’m learning all over again what it means to find my identity in Christ alone. As women we wear so many labels, but the one that matters most is Daughter of the King. And He loves us just because. No performance required. Not a straight-A report card or a perfectly decorated house or even the right amount of “quiet time” boxes checked off in our planners. We are His! Rest in that. And from that secure foundation, we have the freedom to explore all the potential God placed in us!

So let’s have some fun and make something beautiful together!

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“The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns, where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭65‬:‭8‬ ‭
My friend wrote a book! It is the compelling story of a young boy whose demons stalked him into manhood, while Jesus pursued him with a love that would not relent. Honest and raw, shocking and tragic, Hadley doesn’t hold back from the ugly reality of addiction. It is heartbreaking. And yet, this is ultimately a story of hope and redemption. I urge you to read this book, even if you have never personally struggled with addiction. It will give you insight. If you know someone who has battled addiction of any kind, especially p*rnography, give them this book. Start conversations. No one should have to live in silence and shame. Text me. Message Hadley. Find someone to talk to. There’s healing and a new life available for everyone. Get the book. You’ll find in its pages a friend who has walked a hard road and the Savior who redeems and transforms. I couldn’t put it down. I pray everyone who reads it finds freedom!
”The Lord will vindicate me; your love, Lord, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.“ ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭138‬:‭8‬ ‭
“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭8‬
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭32‬:‭8‬ ‭
“Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭12‬:‭27‬-‭31‬ ‭
I will look to the Lord and His strength! I will seek His face continually because I long to be in His presence! There’s no better place to be! Nothing compares to knowing Him! You may be saved - glory to God! But do you really know Him? Do you look forward to meeting with Him? Have you developed an ongoing conversation with Him, talking to Him as you would a friend? Do you open your heart and share your needs and fears and deepest longings? The good news of the day? Your dreams? He wants to hear it all! What a wonderful mystery that the God of the universe wants to spend time with you and with me and with all of His creation! What a Father, what a Friend. Praise Him! Thank Him! He is everything!
I don’t like to wait. It feels like wasting time, like there’s someplace else I could be, doing something else that’s productive and bringing visible results. But, if I wasn’t forced to wait, I would miss so many things like growth and reflection and rest. Rest is productive. It’s restorative. It also isn’t easy. I must constantly be reminded to rest in God’s provision, trusting in His goodness, and waiting in His presence. He never fails. And He is always right on time. “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭13‬-‭14‬ ‭
Feeling weak and powerless? Inadequate? Unable or unsure or just a little frustrated? There’s grace for that. In fact, God promises us his strength. When we are weak, he is strong. Remember that old Steven Curtis Chapman song? I found myself singing it today… His strength is perfect when our strength is gone He’ll carry us when we can’t carry on Raised in his power, the weak become strong His strength is perfect, his strength is perfect Go listen to it. I think it will bless you. Thank him for his grace and strength. Oh, he’s a good God!
Have faith. Don’t doubt. Keep believing Keep trusting Keep praising Keep working Keep thanking Keep learning Keep worshipping Keep praying Just keep going.
It’s time I view writing not as something to accomplish, taking a results-oriented approach, but as an act of worship and obedience - a chance to slow down, tune in to God’s presence, and create without worrying what it might look like. “Whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus [and in dependence on Him], giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬
“I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭130‬:‭5‬ ‭
“Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭105‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭
“With you as my strength I can crush an enemy horde, advancing through every stronghold that stands in front of me.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭18‬:‭29‬ ‭
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” ‭‭Psalm‬ ‭118‬:‭24‬ ‭
“The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.” ‭‭Psalm‬ ‭118‬:‭14‬ ‭
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” ‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭17‬
“Keep on giving your thanks to God, for he is so good! His constant, tender love lasts forever!” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭118‬:‭1‬ ‭
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” ‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭
“I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name, O Most High.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭9‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭
“Let them praise the Lord for his great love and for the wonderful things he has done for them.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭107‬:‭31‬ ‭
“Then I will praise God’s name with singing, and I will honor him with thanksgiving.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭69‬:‭30‬ ‭
“The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭28‬:‭7‬ ‭
“Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭15‬ ‭
“The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭6‬ ‭
“So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬-‭18‬ ‭
“Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure.” ‭‭Psalm‬ ‭147‬:‭5‬ ‭
“I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the name of the Lord.” ‭‭Psalm‬ ‭116‬:‭17‬ ‭
“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!” ‭‭1 Chronicles‬ ‭16‬:‭24‬ ‭
“Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!” ‭‭1 Chronicles‬ ‭16‬:‭8‬ ‭
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”” ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭31‬:‭6‬ ‭
“Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭136‬:‭26‬ ‭
“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭100‬:‭4‬ ‭
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭107‬:‭1‬ ‭
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” ‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬-‭18‬ ‭
“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭17‬ ‭
“And you will say in that day: “Give thanks to the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the peoples, proclaim that his name is exalted.” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭12‬:‭4‬ ‭
“For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭15‬ ‭
“I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus,” ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭4‬ ‭ 11/2/22
“Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!” ‭‭Psalm‬ ‭95‬:‭2‬ ‭ 11/1/22
Perfection is the unattainable goal I continue to strive for. It steals my joy, my peace, and my confidence. I’m working on it. It’s a daily decision, sometimes hourly or by the minute. I don’t know why I continue to do this to myself, knowing it only leads to disappointment. With God’s help, I’m figuring out how to be faithful while resting in His grace, trusting Him with all the imperfect parts. I started a blog space 3 years ago, and this is the first post. It’s embarrassing to admit. I’ve started to write and then stopped dozens of times. Something has to change. What’s special about today? Nothing really. I’m just tired of what has been, so it’s time to try a new approach. It won’t be perfect. In fact, the website looks quite unfinished. It will get there eventually. I have no idea where this is headed. It is definitely a work in progress. Well…Here we go…
Place your hope in Jesus! He is certain, unchangeable, and his promises remain steadfast. “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭6:19-20‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/30/22
We can confidently approach God because our prayers and petitions are welcomed and desired by Him, and He gives all that we need for every circumstance! One of the greatest blessings of salvation is having Jesus as our high priest, opening a way to his personal presence where we can always seek the help we need. “Therefore let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God’s gracious favor] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment].” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4:16‬ ‭AMP‬‬ 4/29/22
Jesus sympathizes with us and promises to give us strength and grace. Draw near to him, and he will help us in every time of need! “Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4:14-15‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/28/22
God’s grace lets us look beyond our present problems to a fervent hope in Him. He has poured out His love to comfort us in our trials and bring His presence near. It is this ever-present experience of God’s love that sustains us in our sufferings and assures us of our hope for the future. “And not only this, but [with joy] let us exult in our sufferings and rejoice in our hardships, knowing that hardship (distress, pressure, trouble) produces patient endurance; and endurance, proven character (spiritual maturity); and proven character, hope and confident assurance [of eternal salvation]. Such hope [in God’s promises] never disappoints us, because God’s love has been abundantly poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭5:3-5‬ ‭AMP‬‬ 4/27/22
Growth. “Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace]. And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing.” ‭‭James‬ ‭1:2-4‬ ‭AMP‬‬ 4/26/22
Many have heard about God, but not everyone has met Him. Do you know Him? Have you seen Him? Do you recognize His presence in the world and in your life? This isn’t about religion. The God of the universe knows you and wants you to know Him and be in relationship with Him. He loves you so much more than you could imagine. “My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you.” ‭‭Job‬ ‭42:5‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/25/22
Most people have heard the story of Job. It’s a difficult book to read, but chapters 38-41 are some of my favorite passages in the Bible. Here, God describes himself as the creator and director of everything in the universe. He is the One who is master over all of creation - from stars to animals to the sea and the weather. He is awesome and wonderful and mighty, and yet, He takes notice of us. He loves and cares for us and has good things planned for our lives. What an amazing God! ““Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand.” ‭‭Job‬ ‭38:4‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/24/22
God’s signature is everywhere! “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭1:20‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/23/22
I see Earth Day as a celebration not of the earth itself, but of our wonderful Creator, who designed nature and gave us a beautiful place to live. “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth…God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.” ‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1:1,31‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/22/22
His purpose is salvation, not condemnation. Like my pastor says, he’s not mad at you, he’s mad about you! “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” ‭‭John‬ ‭3:17‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/21/22
So that we could be made whole! “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭53:5‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/20/22
EVERYONE “for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭10:13‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/19/22
I deserve death. He gives life. Oh what a Savior! “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭3:23-24‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/18/22
Resurrection Sunday! Jesus died and rose again so we can live in victory and spend eternity with him. ❤️ Tetelestai - it is finished 1. The word of a servant and master Did exactly what he wanted Jesus was the ultimate master and the ultimate servant 2. The word of an artist Finished work of art 3. The word of a banker When paid in full 4. The word of the court Time served Colossians 2:14 5. The word of a priest during Passover Priest inspected sacrificial lamb on Friday of Passover and would declare Tetelestai - the perfect lamb “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28:6‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/17/22
He took my sin. He paid the price. It is finished! “We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭53:6‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/16/22
Unimaginable sacrifice Beautiful Savior “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” ‭‭John‬ ‭3:16‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/15/22
The Last Supper “And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭22:19-20‬ ‭ 4/14/22
Jesus set the example of what it looks like to show love through humble service. My prayer today is for God to show me how I can serve others - something requiring a measure of humility - perhaps an act that won’t receive accolades or recognition, or something that seems small and insignificant but touches the heart of God and demonstrates His love. “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” ‭‭John‬ ‭13:14-15‬ ‭ 4/13/22
Love like Jesus. It’s so simple. And it isn’t easy. Yet it’s the mark of being His. ““A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”” ‭‭John‬ ‭13:34-35‬ ‭ 4/12/22
He was one of us. Jesus emptied himself, laying aside his heavenly glory to take on the nature of a servant. Although he remained fully divine, he chose to live as a human, with all of our limitations and weaknesses - yet was without sin - and accepted suffering, misunderstanding, hatred, and a cursed death on the cross. “rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!” ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:7-8‬ ‭ 4/11/22
Palm Sunday The Triumphal Entry They celebrated him but they would soon reject him. They didn’t understand. They expected something different. They couldn’t see what he was doing. God, help me keep my eyes on you, trusting you when things aren’t the way I planned or wanted them to be, when things don’t make sense or I’m tempted to box you in to the shape of my own understanding. ““Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭19:38‬ ‭ 4/10/22
May our hearts always long for the Awesome, Mighty, Incredible, Powerful, Wonderful, Righteous, Loving, Holy, Marvelous, Glorious… presence of our God! “My heart says of you, “Seek his face!” Your face, Lord, I will seek.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27:8‬ 4/9/22
Ask. Seek. Knock. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7:7-8‬ 4/8/22
It is so important to tell our children about God - who He is, what He’s done, and our personal experiences with Him. Pray with them, read Scripture to them, and tell them your story. Build on your foundation of faith and pass that legacy on to the next generation. “We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭78:4‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 4/7/22
Small things in the hand of an awesome God can make a big difference! Jesus was teaching his disciples that a person’s confident, abiding faith combined with God’s power can produce absolutely amazing results, if the request is in harmony with God’s will. God is fully capable of doing that which man regards as impossible. What are you believing for today? “He answered, “Because of your little faith [your lack of trust and confidence in the power of God]; for I assure you and most solemnly say to you, if you have [living] faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and [if it is God’s will] it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭17:20‬ ‭AMP‬‬ 4/6/22
When God sets a big dream in our hearts, it’s easy to think it’s up to us to bring it to pass. Yes, we partner with God in obedient steps, but only He can do the impossible. As we pray toward the goal God has given us, may we remember to rely on Him for the results and trust in His great faithfulness. 💕 4/5/22
I can’t, but He can! As @christinecaine says: Impossible is where God starts, and miracles are what God does! “For with God nothing [is or ever] shall be impossible.”” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭1:37‬ ‭AMP‬‬ 4/4/22
Nothing is too hard for God! We say this, we even sing it, but do we really believe it? Or, do we believe for others but lack the faith for God to move miraculously in our own lives? For some reason it’s harder to believe for myself. Today, Cash and I are asking God for a miracle - a dream in our hearts that will only happen with God’s help. We are full of faith and can’t wait to see all God does over the next two years! Nothing, nothing, absolutely nothing - nothing is too difficult for Him! 4/3/22
4/2/22 We think we’re better at obeying than we really are. If we’re honest, we will agree that our “obedience” is not always immediate or complete. It’s easy to mostly obey, then give God our reasoning and hope He approves of our adjustments to His plan. Sometimes we even claim our new and improved version is for Him - as if we could know better. We’re surprised when He doesn’t bless us in our disobedience. The truth is, God knows best, and what He asks of us is for not only His glory, but our own good. As hard as it may seem, or as much as we might not be crazy about all the details of His plan, we would do well to fully obey. Obedience provides protection and provision, and is the shortest path to getting where God wants us to go - a place of abundant life, peace, joy, and ultimate fulfillment. “But Samuel replied: “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.” ‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭15:22‬ NIV
I’m committing to posting something here every day for the month of April - and of course, I’m already behind. (But we had a great night hanging out with our friends!) I’m excited to see where things are 30 days from now. I don’t know what to expect, but I’m going to have fun with it! ☺️ 4/1/22
“Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]–” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭3:20‬ ‭AMPC‬‬
“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4:18‬ ‭
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6:12‬ ‭NIV‬‬
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6:11‬ ‭NIV‬‬
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6:10‬ ‭NIV‬‬
We have seen his glory.
May I be found faithful.
“He answered, “The Scriptures say: Bread alone will not satisfy, but true life is found in every word, which constantly goes forth from God’s mouth.”” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭4:4‬ ‭TPT‬‬
“I am the sprouting vine and you’re my branches. As you live in union with me as your source, fruitfulness will stream from within you—but when you live separated from me you are powerless.” ‭‭John‬ ‭15:5‬ ‭TPT‬‬
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭31:6‬ ‭
Happy New Year! 🎊
“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭100:4-5‬ ‭ #happythanksgivng
“Let joy be your continual feast. Make your life a prayer. And in the midst of everything be always giving thanks, for this is God’s perfect plan for you in Christ Jesus.” ‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5:16-18‬ ‭
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4:12‬ ‭🙌🏻🔥❤️
“Thank you” just seems to fall short of all the gratitude and admiration I have for those who choose to serve. ❤️🤍💙🇺🇸
Whatever happens...
“if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” ‭‭2 Chronicles‬ ‭7:14‬ ‭NIV‬‬
“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12:14‬
“Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16:3‬ ‭
“And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2:21‬ ‭
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭4:12‬ ‭NIV‬‬
“The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭24:1-2‬ . Happy 🌎 day!
He is risen indeed!
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭5:8‬ ‭NIV‬‬
“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭53:5‬ ‭NIV
Inspired by my friend @msmelissaradke to #eatcakebebrave Here’s to 41! 🍰 🎉❤️
New year. New adventures. Same God...and He’s so, so good! 🙌🏻🎊❤️
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On The Podcast

We hope to have a podcast series coming soon!

EP. 01:

EP. 01:

COMING SOON!

COMING SOON!

COMING SOON!

a little about us

A New Home

"By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures."

Proverbs 24:3-4

Once we moved out of the city and onto a 50-acre farm we named Green Valley Ranch, I thought that was it. Our boys were 5 and almost 2 at the time, and that spot of land just outside of town was a dream come true. We remodeled the old ranch-style house and poured our hearts and souls into every inch of it. We built fences, started a longhorn herd, got a donkey, learned to keep bees and chickens, taught our boys outdoor skills and ranching skills, fished and hunted and camped, hosted holidays and parties and church picnics, played games and made music, welcomed a paint horse (best birthday present ever!), buried our favorite old dog, watched our kids and extended family grow, and so much more. So much life!


For 10 years we filled that house with joy and laughter, a few tears, and always worship. I never thought we would leave. I pictured my kids getting married in the back by the pond, under the tree with the long, crooked branch. My mom built her retirement farmhouse just up the hill, where my kids would “sneak out” to go get a snack and watch cartoons with Grammy.


But sometimes God does something new. Actually, He is always up to something new, but this time it meant leaving the town and the home we loved and moving back to East Texas, where my husband is from. It was a weird mix of joy and grief as we packed up to move – by the way, moving a farm was much harder and took much longer than we expected, but we all worked together and made it happen after a few very long days and nights.

Our new home is the most beautiful house I’ve ever lived in. It was built by the previous owners with much love and a foundation faith, and we are honored to call it ours now. We miss things about our last farm, but we are quickly settling in and making this one our own. Once again, we built fences. Set up beehives. We’ve already seen a few animals born, but some of our favorite cows have died. My heart broke when I had to say goodbye to my old paint horse. He's buried in the front pasture. We welcomed a beautiful palomino horse to our family, and a new donkey, too. And a stray dog we rescued has now become Cash’s favorite. My boys are growing, becoming men. We are reconnecting with the “other” side of our family, spending time with all the cousins and aunts and uncles that have been far away for so long. Living a short drive down a dirt road from PawPaw is such a blessing.


Life has come full-circle in a way. Cash and I are back where we started – in the church where we met, trained for ministry, served on staff, and made great memories and the best friends. The kind of church that feels like home. The kind of people who feel like family. When we moved away in 2005, I never imagined we would live here again, and in countless ways it is a gift to be back. I didn’t see it coming, but here we are. What for? Who knows. Well, God knows. And we trust Him with our lives.


I have a sense that this is just the beginning of the new chapter He is writing, and I can’t wait to see where it goes!



the best way

A Joyful Adventure

October 2023

Cash and I have been married for almost 23 years, and God continues to guide and surprise us. In some ways, life is not how I pictured it, but in other ways, we are right where I always wanted to be - a happy family living on a farm and serving Jesus together. But before you think my life has been perfect or somehow wraps up into a nice, neat bow, I will tell you that I have experienced some dark and messy times. I have walked through seasons of tragedy, loss, betrayal, fear, uncertainty, grief, and deep pain. And yet, through it all, God has been faithful.


I’ve learned that surrendering to God means not only giving Him your heart and your life, but your expectations as well. He sees everything I can’t see and knows what I don't yet understand. A lot of things will only make sense looking back, but I know I can trust Him because He is so good! His way is always the best way, and I am often undone by His kindness to me. He leads, guides, and pours out blessing where I least expect it, and never deserve. He takes the broken pieces and forms them into something good and for His glory. His peace guards my heart and surpasses my understanding. His grace and mercy are overwhelming. His love all-consuming. Life in Him is truly abundant. I may not know what’s next, but my confidence is in the One who numbered my days and ordered my steps. Each day is a step of faith, and it all adds up to a great, big, joyful adventure!


about

Meet My Boys

As you follow along you’ll see two blond-haired, blue-eyed, now very tall boys of mine. Michael is our oldest, and he turned 18 this year. I tell him all the time he is the guinea pig kid because I’ve never been the mom of a “fill-in-the-blank-stage” before. We named him after our dads, and boy does he remind me of both sides of the family! David is 14 and our “baby.” He is just like Cash, so he keeps me on my toes! We named him after King David, and when Michael was a little guy, he asked if he could switch names with his brother – he wanted to be the king and have his little brother be the angel. They are both very funny (they get that from their dad). Musical, too (I'll claim that one). They are also intelligent, talented, thoughtful, generous, and kind. They love God and they love people. I am one proud mama! I just can’t say enough about these two. They are the joy of my heart! I never knew I could love someone so much, but my love for them feels immeasurable. As my dad used to say, I love them all there is!

about

Meet My Boys

As you follow along you’ll see two blond-haired, blue-eyed, now very tall boys of mine. Michael is our oldest, and he turned 18 this year. I tell him all the time he is the guinea pig kid because I’ve never been the mom of a “fill-in-the-blank-stage” before. We named him after our dads, and boy does he remind me of both sides of the family! David is 14 and our “baby.” He is just like Cash, so he keeps me on my toes! We named him after King David, and when Michael was a little guy, he asked if he could switch names with his brother – he wanted to be the king and have his little brother be the angel. They are both very funny (they get that from their dad). Musically gifted, too. They are also intelligent, talented, thoughtful, generous, and kind. They love God and they love people. I am one proud mama! I just can’t say enough about these two. They are the joy of my heart! I never knew I could love someone so much, but my love for them feels immeasurable. As my dad used to say, I love them all there is! 


October 2023

in the archives

The Green Valley Grace Blog

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what really counts

The Heart of the Matter

If you've made it this far, you've already read a little about my faith. I have given my life to God and am convinced there's no greater decision a person can make. This is where true joy lives and real beauty is found. I believe the most important thing in life is to know Jesus, and the second most important is to tell others about Him. Whether you have been a Christ follower for a long time, are just getting to know Him, left Him behind somewhere along the way, or have yet to meet Him...wherever you are on your spiritual journey, I hope you find a safe place here. Reach out anytime. I'd love to hear your story.


"'...What must I do to be saved?' They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved..." - Acts 16:31


"If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9


"Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." - Joel 2:32;      Acts 2:21; Romans 10:13


"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." 

- John 3:16-17

"For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." Luke 19:10

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