Faith In Waiting

80s Baby. 90s Kid. Adult-ish. I love Jesus, my family, music, movies, sitcoms, food, travel, photography, basketball, working out, not working out, & making people laugh. 

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That’s All Folks

This blog is coming to a close, so let’s recap before I go… 

Over the last 365 days I have learned A LOT about love, relationships, and myself. I have learned relationships are about more than liking someone or being physically attracted to them. I have learned they are really about friendship, love, enjoying a million boring Tuesdays together, communication, compromise, temperament, faith, respect, and so much more. 

Now that I understand what a healthy relationship looks like, I can honestly say, I am ready to be in one. I finally feel whole and healed. I finally understand what this season of singleness was all about. I can see and appreciate all that God has been doing in and through me. I now understand, no matter my marital status, he is the point and he is the purpose. 

God has granted me the wisdom to look beyond the here and now. He has led me down the path of healing and forgiveness. He has shown me I can trust him in all things. He has given me the desire to build my relational foundation on the rock. He has instilled a promise in my heart and wants me to know there is a Jesus loving, late blooming, kind hearted man out there for me. I can finally say, with confidence, “Message received.”. 

Yes and amen. 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for embarking on this journey with me. It started in a notebook, and without a pandemic and a zoom writing group, it may have lived and died in that notebook. I hope I have in some way inspired you and at the very least made you laugh. Thanks (again) for being here. 

Be Blessed.

<3, 

Lisa

                                      🎵Justin Bieber- Lifetime🎵

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LATE BLOOMER

I was thinking about my (future) husband today. I was thinking of how we’re late bloomers, how we love Jesus, and how we’re both believing without seeing. 

I used to take being a late bloomer for granted, but now I’ve learned to appreciate it. I’m glad I was never in a hurry to grow up. I’m glad I took the time to chase my dreams. I’m glad I gave myself space to fail. Maybe I didn’t love it all while it was happening, but I do appreciate it now. I keep learning (and re-learning) not to judge things before their appointed time. Learning to zoom out and see the big picture. Learning to recognize there is a beautiful story unfolding here.

I recently re-read an old letter from my high school basketball coach. In the letter he told me my most important job would be as a wife and a mother. At the time it was written, it went right over my head, but it means so much more now. God didn’t put that dream in my heart early on. He created me to take my time. He created me to be a late bloomer. 

I think this all has a greater meaning than I even realize. There is so much more ahead. I’m truly grateful for this late blooming journey, this season, and God’s timing.

<3,

Lisa

                                         🎵Cautious Clay-Wildfire🎵

Prayer: God I am sticking close to you. My heart is on you, my mind is on you, my eyes are on you. Amen.

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FASTING

What’s more appropriate than talking about fasting during the holidays? I know I could definitely use a fast after back to back holiday feasts and don’t even get me started on the desserts. Christmas cookies, anyone?

Typically people think of food when you mention a fast, but today I want to talk about a different type of fasting. I want to talk about fasting from things that tend to steal our attention like social media, phones, streaming, and anything that keeps us from focusing on who/what matters most (friends, family, God, self-care, etc.). 

When I catch myself mindlessly scrolling social media or having blurry eyes from binge watching Netflix, I take it as a sign to start a fast. Even if it’s only for 24 hours, I always notice a difference afterwards. I feel refreshed and my mind feels more clear and focused. It’s not always easy to get started, but in the end it’s always worth it.

So, the next time you catch yourself mindlessly scrolling through social media or Netflix is asking if you’re still there… I challenge you to do at least a 24 hour fast. Take that time to spend with loved ones, get reconnected to God, or just get outside into nature. Whatever it takes to quiet your mind and focus your attention on what really matters. I guarantee you won’t regret it. 

Have a blessed week!

<3, 

Lisa

                                     🎵Justin Bieber- Mistletoe🎵

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📸: Google

I’m grateful to be spending this day with my family. I hope wherever you are and whoever you’re with, it‘s a blessed day filled with gratitude! Happy Thanksgiving!

<3,

Lisa

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Let Go Of Perfection

Perfection isn’t real. It does not exist. Repeat it. Say it loud. It does not exist. 

So why are we always chasing it? Why are we obsessing over it? Where does this desire come from? Why are we chasing something that does not exist? 

I wish I knew.

As a recovering perfectionist, I have finally learned to stop chasing what can never be obtained. I’ve accepted that perfection is nothing but an illusion. An illusion that has caused me a lot of unnecessary stress and anxiety. I’ve finally learned to take a step back and see the big picture. I’ve discovered life is a lot more beautiful as it is, imperfections and all. 

I think I was always under the impression that relationships were supposed to be perfect. That I was supposed to be perfect. I guess that’s why I could never live up to my end. I was setting an impossible standard for myself and my significant other. Now that I am older and wiser, I know neither of us are supposed to be perfect because it isn’t possible. Working to become the best versions of ourselves is enough.

Life was never meant to be perfect, it was meant to be lived. Learn to appreciate the imperfections and let go of the rest in the name of Jesus.

Hope you have a blessed week!

<3, 

Lisa 

                     🎵Taylor Swift feat. Shawn Mendes- Lover (Remix)🎵

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Foundation

         Trust me and don’t be afraid, for I am your strength and song.                                                -Jesus Calling 

God could never reveal all he has in store for us because our brains wouldn’t be able to handle it. Everything he’s doing happens one step at a time in order to prepare and ease us into our destiny. If we went from step one directly to the end game we would skip the most beneficial part. The part where we make mistakes, work out the kinks, and build our character. Without these crucial steps we are likely to crumble under the pressure and lack of experience. 

If we take things one step at a time we can work up to where God is leading. We may stumble here and there (maybe even crash and burn), but we will learn and grow through the process. When we get to the final step we will be well prepared. It won’t be perfect by any means, but it will be built on a firm foundation, and that’s what really counts. 

I think that’s what God is doing with me in this season of singleness. I know I couldn’t have handled marriage prior to this season of my life. I really wasn’t emotionally mature enough to “get it” back then. I knew how to love my friends and family well, but when it came to romantic love, I was pretty clueless. I thought relationships were something you did until you got bored, found someone better, or were cheated on. I had no idea what a healthy relationship actually looked like among people my age. It took me quite some time to understand what I should be looking for in a significant other and what I needed to bring to the table. I know I’m still a work in progress, but I’m grateful God didn’t let me skip the necessary steps to build a firm foundation. 

If you feel like you’re in a season of singleness, drought, the wilderness, etc. try to take a step back and see what God is showing you. He may need you to take steps toward building a stronger foundation before you can move forward. It is not a punishment. He is refining you so you will be better prepared for what he has in store. It could be marriage, parenthood, or running a fortune 500 company. Whatever it may be, you can trust him. Put in the work and see where it leads. You won’t regret it. He is faithful.

<3,

Lisa 

                               🎵The Church Will Sing- Make Room🎵

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📸: Google

Thank you for serving!!🇺🇸

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I Liked Boys Who Wore Abercrombie & Fitch

     Let’s take a trip back to the 90s when ‘AF’ meant Abercrombie & Fitch                         and I liked all the boys who were wearing it.                            (You can see I had my priorities straight.)

In my early teens I was constantly rejected by the opposite sex until one day, without warning, they were suddenly interested in me. (Huh?) I hadn’t done anything differently, but somehow they were seeing me differently. I found it all very confusing. I went from constantly being rejected by guys to them wanting to date me. I definitely did not see that plot twist coming. 

Once I got past the initial fear and confusion of it all, I guess I got used to it. I guess you could say I began to take advantage of and embrace my new found romantic comedy life. I lived with the illusion that it would always be that way.<insert face palm emoji here> I eventually learned the cold hard truth, my romantic comedy life was only for a season, and I was just as single at the end as I was at the beginning. 

Now that I am older and wiser I can see what I had back then. Looking forward I know who/what to appreciate and not take for granted. I obviously can’t go back and fix my past relationships, but I can move forward with intention and awareness. That’s the upside to mistakes, they help you make better choices moving forward.

To all the boys I hurt before, I’m sorry. For I knew not what I did. Thank you for all of the romantic gestures, including, but not limited to the promposal (before it was even a thing), poetry, roses in my car, giving me your shirt when I was cold, bringing me soup when I was sick, following me home to make sure I got there alright, and answering my calls at any hour. 

Even if I am late to say I appreciated it all, know that I appreciated it all. Thank you for loving me. ; )

<3,

Lisa

                      🎵Blackstreet- We Gonna Take U Back/Don’t Leave Me🎵

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More Than Abs

                         Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.                                                        Psalm 37:7

Today I saw an old picture of an ex-boyfriend. I didn’t recognize him at first because his face & body were fully painted. I only saw abs and thought, “Who is that guy?”. When I looked closer, I realized who it was and immediately remembered what was beyond those abs. 

If you are just starting to date, don’t be fooled by outer appearances. Find out what’s in a person’s heart and mind before you start spending quality time together. Look beyond the superficiality and get to know their character and temperament. Seek out someone who looks as good on the inside as they do on the outside. 

This might sound cheesy, BUT: A.) I am cheesy. & 2.) It will save you a lot of heartache. 

Keep in mind, looks don’t always last through the years. Some guys and girls are late bloomers. Don’t underestimate the kind, thoughtful, nerdy guy/girl. 

Moral of the story: Trust your instincts, look beyond abs and clothes, and most importantly, trust God with your heart and your significant other. 

<3,

Lisa

                                  🎵Extreme- More than Words🎵

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ALMOST

In my early twenties I started dating someone I had known for awhile. When we first got together it seemed like everything in our relationship just clicked. It seemed like he could be the one for me. 

Unfortunately, this was a very stressful season in my life so I did not navigate our relationship well. I was anything but consistent, because my life outside of the relationship felt like a blindfolded rollercoaster ride. I was regularly experiencing a lot of doubt and fear, but never really opened up to him about it. I don’t think I knew how at the time and really struggled with the feeling that I could never live up to my end of the relationship. I don’t know how it felt to him, but I felt like I was always letting him down. I was extremely critical of myself (in that season) so it was hard for me to understand how or why he loved me so unconditionally. In hindsight, I am extremely grateful for that unconditional love, because it helped me learn and grow in so many ways.

I think everyone has an almost relationship before they find the one for them. A relationship where almost everything is right. A relationship where you both really tried to make it work, but couldn’t get it right. You both wanted it to work, but knew deep down it never could. It’s difficult to let that person go, but you both know it’s for the best.

If you think you have found and lost the one for you, my best advice is to move forward. Try not to pine. Maybe you will get back together or maybe they were your almost. Either way, you have to move forward. Trust yourself and trust God’s timing. He has your best interest in mind and has good things in store for your future. You won’t be able to experience those things if you’re holding on to the past. Let go of what was, stay present, and keep moving forward in faith. The best is yet to come.

<3,

Lisa

                                  🎵Jeremy Camp- Out of my Hands🎵

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BOUNDARIES

                        But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes' and your 'No' be ‘No.                                                    Matthew 5:37

I had strong boundaries growing up, but didn’t actively think about them at the time. I never noticed my boundaries until I started to lack them. During college they began to weaken and almost disappear in some areas of my life. I didn’t realize it was an issue at the time, so I never addressed/corrected it.

During my 30s it has become abundantly clear that I need to work on rebuilding and reestablishing my boundaries. I bring this up and want to point it out, because it is an uncomfortable process that I am still currently participating in. I am finding the sooner you establish healthy boundaries, the better off you and everyone in your life will be. Healthy boundaries will create healthy relationships. This will take intentional effort and work, but it will be worth it.

Here are some takeaways from my journey so far:

Boundaries are under-rated. Boundaries are important. Boundaries are necessary.

Boundaries should be be respected, always. Boundaries should be practiced in a safe environment. Boundaries should be taught at home and in school. 

Boundaries are not inconvenient. Boundaries are not disrespectful. Boundaries are not to be broken.

If you are struggling with creating healthy boundaries anywhere in your life, I highly recommend the book “Boundaries” by Dr. Henry Cloud. A friend recommended it to me and it has been life changing. I hope it will add value to your life as well. : )

Have a great week!

<3,

Lisa

                                              🎵Haim- Falling🎵

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Forgiveness

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.                                                Matthew 18:20-22

I had this feeling I couldn’t shake. I couldn’t describe it, but I knew it was holding me back. I finally had the profound realization it was a result of unforgiveness. (According to Google unforgiveness is not a word in the English language, but I’m still using it. ) I had been unknowingly carrying this feeling around for longer than I could remember. It took me awhile to recognize it because unexpected life-altering events do not come with instruction manuals. In this situation there wasn’t one specific person to hold responsible and I had honestly thought I made peace with it long ago. It turns out, I made peace with as much as I could, but I needed to circle back to clear out the unforgiveness that remained. 

When I finally realized I was holding on to unforgiveness toward the situation as a whole, I realized I was going to have to learn to forgive the situation as a whole. I started by making a list of everyone who contributed to the situation and I started to pray for each of them. I declared out loud that I forgave them and was letting it all go in the name of Jesus. I also prayed for them to have fruitful and blessed lives. 

Was this easy? Not even a little, but it was necessary. 

If you are struggling with letting go of a situation that didn’t go your way, ask God to reveal any unforgiveness you may be carrying. Ask him what you need to put down and let go of to be set free. If you still find yourself unable to forgive, ask God to help you take small steps to let it go in his name. It will take real work, but the freedom on the other side is 100% worth it. 

I also found it beneficial to think back to the situation and recognize those who did help me and had my best interest at heart. I said prayers of gratitude for them and prayed their lives would be fruitful and blessed. 

You might think this all sounds crazy, but holding on to unforgiveness takes up a lot of energy and headspace. Being willing to forgive and move on really does set you free. Ask God to walk with you through the process. He will get you to the other side. 

Praying you have a blessed week!

<3, 

Lisa

                            🎵Josh Baldwin- My Hands Are Open🎵

Side Note: Please remember, forgiveness does not mean going back to the situation or person who hurt you. Forgiveness means you have peace about the person/situation and you’ve let go of what you thought you were owed. That’s where the freedom lies. Keep moving forward into that freedom.<3

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God’s Plan

Did I ever think I’d be rapidly approaching my 40th birthday more single than ever? Nope. 

Did I ever imagine I’d live in LA, work for the company of my dreams, and watch it all fall apart? Definitely not. 

Here’s the good news: When things fall apart or don’t turn out like we’ve hoped, we get to watch God put them back together with a stronger foundation.

Do I sometimes wish I would have taken an easier road? (Kept the boyfriend, followed the stable unfulfilling career path, got married and had babies right away.) On the difficult days, when I long for comfort and stability, yes. On every other day, not a chance. Especially the days where I experience what the girl, with the perfect boyfriend and safe career path, secretly dreamed of. 

God’s path for your life may not seem logical to anyone around you. At times, it may not even seem logical to you. Regardless of how it looks, I promise you, it is worth it.

Yes, there will be struggles, doubts, & tears, but there will also be breakthroughs, growth, & joy. 

Don’t give up! Keep moving forward. God has you on this journey for a reason. If you trust him and move forward into the unknown, he will unveil things you never imagined. His purpose for your life is important. It is blessed and anointed. Keep the faith and have the courage to follow his lead. He will show you the way.

<3,

Lisa

                              🎵Hillsong United- Know You Will🎵

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Content(ment).

con·tent Adjective in a state of peaceful happiness. Noun a state of satisfaction.

I find myself on an endless journey to experience complete contentment. Many times I catch the wave but quickly find myself back in the water. I used to be under the illusion that following God meant automatic and infinite contentment. I’ve since found that’s not the case. In order to find contentment you need to take a look at where it’s coming from.

When my contentment seems fleeting it is usually coming from a situation or circumstance, rather than God. This kind of contentment isn’t sustainable, because circumstances and situations always change. If I want my contentment to be ongoing, I have to keep it rooted in the one who never changes. I have to keep it rooted in God. 

During this season of singleness, God is teaching me to get quiet and listen. He is nudging me to spend more time in the word. He is showing me true contentment can only be found in him. 

Food for thought: When do you feel most content? In those moments, is your contentment coming from God? 

Praying you have a blessed week! Stay safe & be kind.

<3, 

Lisa

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.                                               Philippians 4:12

                      🎵Mike Donehey- Follow You Into The Fire🎵

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The List

If you’re a follower of Jesus, aka a Christian, you probably know what “The List” is. For those who don’t know, I’ll give you a quick refresher. 

The List- Tell God what you’re looking for in a significant other by making a list and being as specific as possible. 

For some, this has been a foolproof plan. They made their list and God delivered in a timely fashion. For me, this list has never, ever worked. In fact, I’ve made multiple lists through the years and have come to the conclusion that I no longer believe in, “The List”. 

However, I did learn from the list. It has shown me how much I’ve evolved over time. I’ve went from wanting a guy with abs and expensive clothes to a guy with character and substance. Yes, I still want a husband I find physically attractive, but there are many non-physical attributes that take precedence over the superficial qualities I once focused on. (Thank God!)

Even though I am generally against the list, I won’t discourage you from creating one. Like I mentioned above, for some, the list is foolproof and God delivers quickly. Having the list also helps you reflect on how much you’ve grown in your faith walk, and that’s never a bad thing. 

Wether you choose to make the list or not, be sure to first and foremost keep your eyes and heart on the Lord. He will lead and guide you to where you need to be.

Have a blessed week!

<3,

Lisa

🎵Daryl Hall, John Oates, Pomo- I Can’t Go For That [Pomo Remix]🎵

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First Kiss

My 5th grade class was on a quick break when my boyfriend passed me a note in the hallway. I have no recollection of what the beginning of the note said, but I clearly remember it ending with:

Do you want to kiss after school? 

Yes   No   Maybe

Circle one.

I immediately panicked, but my BFF grabbed the note, circled yes, and promptly sent it back to to my boyfriend. I watched him quickly read the note and then scrunch up his face and say, “Gross!”. His BFF, on the other hand, seemed very pleased. 

How lucky we were to have best friends willing to schedule our first kiss for us. I’m starting to realize I never would have had many boyfriends if it weren’t for my friends. Thank you… I think.

So my first kiss was scheduled, like a dentist appointment, after school. 

I remember meeting my boyfriend after the final bell rang. It was cold, the sun was shining, the snow was melting, and I’m pretty sure our little elementary hearts were racing. I remember us ducking out of sight behind the garage he always wrote our names on. We closed our eyes and planted one on each other. It probably only lasted a few seconds, but it felt like slow motion. We opened our eyes, walked back to our friends, and went our separate ways. It was an epic moment in my 5th grade life.

I remember my grandma picked me up immediately following and the first words out of my mouth were, “Grandma, do you remember your first kiss?!”. 

Just call me subtle.

Oh and I think a Bon Jovi song was playing on the radio when I got in the car. Even if it wasn’t, it somehow attached itself to the memory, so for all intents and purposes, it was playing. 

Thank you for joining me on this walk down memory lane. 

Have a blessed week! 

<3, 

Lisa

                                  🎵Bon Jovi- Bed of Roses🎵

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Unpause.

Well, I’m back. Quality time with my nieces and nephews has come to an end and I’m currently experiencing some intense withdrawal. I miss them so. 

Bear with me while I shake off the rust and get back into the swing of things. I have about 14 posts to go. Regular blogging will start back up next week.

Just wanted to shout out a couple gratitudes:

1.) There is so much great music out right now. It’s almost overwhelming, but in a good way. 

2.) Ted Lasso is back. It’s the best show currently streaming, in my (humble) opinion. 

3.) August sunsets in Pennsylvania are incredible. 

I hope everyone has been enjoying the summer. I pray you’re all staying healthy and safe. 

See you next week. 

<3, 

Lisa 

                               🎵Forrest Nolan- Summer Vibe🎵