Redemption

I once heard Sheryl Crow cover the famous Johnny Cash song, "Redemption Day," and it absolutely blew me away. The lyrics to this song are really powerful and the theme of redemption even more so. I write this not to talk about a late 90's female singer, but to bring up the topic of deliverance. The definition of redemption always ties back to the sinner's search for rescue, the main reason for Christ's sufferings. I can't help but listen to the song which discusses the "train to Heaven's gate" and think of how we're all delivered on a daily basis. God allows us pardon in the form of mercy in a way that can't be rivaled.

I just read an article on a satirical Christian blog that talks about the Rangers triumph over the Yankees in a true David v. Goliath sports story. Specifically, he talks about Josh Hamilton and all he's overcome in his road to personal and professional glory. Goodness, this guy has struggled. Struggled more than most will ever know. To taste greatness that was literally given to you and let it all slip away, only to get it back again, is a true gift from the Lord. You have to believe he was meant for greatness. Not the kind of greatness that the world measures (wealth, power, notoriety) but greatness on a higher level. To be given the opportunity to use your gifts for the glory of the Lord is something that can't be taken lightly. The higher the rise, the greater the fall. I'm not sure anyone knows that as much as Josh Hamilton and his family.

I dare say that no matter what the outcome is in his next week of "play," his work has already been fulfilled. The platform that he will be given can only be added to what he's already started. Hopefully when the excitement comes (and will undoubtedly go) that the kingdom will remain impacted in a real way. Lucky us to watch it unfold and lucky Josh to get called up...

It's in the soul to feel such things
But weak to watch without speaking
Oh what mercy sadness brings
If God be willing

There is a train that's heading straight
To heaven's gate, to heaven's gate
And on the way, child and man,
And woman wait, watch and wait
For redemption day

Antlers Up!

It's Friday, I'm headed South for an A-TX wedding, whispers of an all-city garage sale are in the air and the Rangers are one win away from playing in the World Series - oh happy day!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. Hopefully when I get back I'll have a renewed sense of creativity and share with you all of my wonderful thoughts. But most likely I'll go blank and post a list of my Christmas wishes...for all of us, I hope that's not the case.

I leave you with - simple and pretty home decor

Rue Mag

Friday Snack

Thanks to Brother for this score - a site full of free acoustic music. Listen and download to your heart's desire...glorious! (I know one Snackster that will love it.)

As for me and my weekend plans - I intend to do some Rangers watching, life organizing and general relaxation. Let's hear it for Friday!

Home decor ideas

Mustachio

Didn't you know? The underage mustache is back, and can be found at a Euro/hipster beach near you.

Local Natives meep.

Beach beats

photo cred

Just Marvelous

Oh to be talented. The kind of talent that makes people marvel, the work that compels a second look or the ability to make others downright envious. If I got a wish, that's what I'd wish for. Today I present to you something that makes me do all three...

(Black and white images of New York City's Fall Fashion Week.)

From Me To You

I'm obsessed.

5 o'clock Monday Post

The weather in North Texas finally got the Fall memo and it is absolutely glorious. Just in time for my favorite Dallas weekend of the year (TX/ou), no less. I have huge plans of stocking up on pumpkins and gearing up for my big move. (roomie bought a house and it's the cutest thing I've ever seen!) Anyway, until then - I'll just work for the weekend...

By the way, I'm loving the new Arcade Fire album - it is amazing. Even more amazing is the "Wake Up" cover by John Legend & The Roots from Funeral. Total greatness!

Hoot Happies

During our Chi O chapter meetings we would have a time of "Hoot Happies" that involved the latest and greatest happenings in the lives of our sorority. Sometimes it was the A on the Chemistry exam and other times it was the successful date with the upperclassman. Regardless, it was a time for us to get a glimpse into the great things that are going on all around us - you can never have too much happy.

Anyway, here are a list of my happies for this this week:

Texas Monthly debuted their October issue and by the looks of things, I'm going to love it.

These two lovebirds will be joining hands in matrimony on Saturday. Love and marriage aside, they will undoubtedly throw a great party. (dum dum dee dum...)

On a related note, these two couldn't be more perfect for each other and decided that forever was a good idea. He swept her off to California for a dreamy engagement and the rest will be happily ever after.

In smaller news...
I found the most amazing travel coffee mug at Bed, Bath & Beyond and thought I would share. Copco To Go Car Cup - I love you.
Fall is here! And you know what this means: Tall boots! College football! Cooler temperatures! The ability to talk freely about costume ideas! Pumpkins! The State Fair!

Annnnd to top it all off - tomorrow brings the likes of Kings of Leon and The Black Keys into town for a fair-weathered lawn concert. To that I say...

bring on the happy.