It's 12:35am on January 1, 2009 i cannot believe how time flies by!!
If you have read my blog before, then you have noticed that I will post a daily devo that I get in my email from Proverbs 31 Woman. The one I got today about hope really hit home with me. I was hoping to get something for Christmas. Actually, there is something I have been hoping for, for awhile now. I was hoping for something on New Year's Eve. There is something I am hoping for on my birthday. In case you're wondering: I am hoping for something specific. I keep trying to find glimmers of hope; but the more time goes by I have discovered that those glimmers of hope is like trying to find a needle in a haystack. Like the author talks about in the devo(we have different situations but i like the illustration), I am 99% sure I won't get what I am hoping for, but I hold on to the 1% that is left. Like she says "My heart simply refused to give up that final thread of hope."
What is it that you are hoping for? Read the following devo and decide if the hope is from God, or from you....
The Night I Lost All Hope
31 Dec 2008
Elaine Bonds
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)
I remember it so well – the night I lost all hope. I had been hoping that my prodigal son was not lying to me. While I was 99% sure he was, I still clung to the 1% chance he was telling the truth. My heart simply refused to give up that final thread of hope.
As a condition of living in our home again, we asked that our 21-year old son attend a weekly support group meeting. We wanted him back home; his other living choice was not a good one. But we needed to establish boundaries , offering a safe place to live without tolerating or enabling his destructive behavior. We wanted to start rebuilding the trust we had lost. One building block was his Friday night support group meeting. Though our son said he was attending, in my heart I felt something was wrong.
One night I just had to know if he was living up to his commitment. I drove to the place where his meeting was held and my fears were confirmed: he was nowhere to be found. I went right home and waited. When he came home I asked about his meeting. “The meeting was fine. I’m tired and going to bed.” I had caught him in a lie!
Hope left me and discouragement came quickly to replace it. I couldn’t even confront him – at least not yet. I needed time to wrestle with the loss of the 1% of hope. It was just a tiny bit of hope. No big loss, right? … Wrong! That last 1% of hope is what I held onto the tightest. I was so angry and crushed. But then, God spoke. He chose a friend to speak His Words to me the very next day. She had no clue what was happening with our son. She just prayed what God prompted her -- for me to have HOPE! She emailed me her prayer:
“Father, You are the God of all hope. Your Word tells us that those who hope in You will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, and they will walk and not be faint. I pray this for Elaine this morning … that she will place her HOPE in You and You alone …”
Reading her prayer, it suddenly became clear to me. My hope had been in my son and in that weekly meeting. The hope I had lost – that 1% I’d been clinging to – was human hope. That kind of hope is in limited quantity, and when it runs out, you are left drained, discouraged, disappointed and …hopeless! Oh, it may masquerade as “hope,” but it is completely different from the hope that God provides. God’s hope renews and refreshes. It empowers, uplifts, and strengthens. God’s hope does not disappoint! There is an unlimited supply of God’s hope.
God knew I had been clinging to human hope, and He knew that last 1% of weak, feeble hope would run out. He wanted me to cling to Him, the God of true, lasting, unlimited hope. So, as I wiped my tears, I waited as the winds of God’s hope blew my way. My circumstances were still the same, but my heart was now filled with the hope that only God can provide.
Dear Lord, Thank You for Your wonderful, everlasting hope. Please help me always put my hope in You and You alone. Thank You that with You all things are possible. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
Single White Female Seeks THE Perfect Man(and finds Him)
I am sure that I am not the only person on this planet to ask the question: "why am I single?" Only to have it go unanswered. We can beat ourselves up by thoughts like i am not pretty/good-looking enough, not skinny enough or not muscular enough, I don't make enough money, don't live in a good enough house, my job is not good enough, I'm just not good enough....
That was a lot of the word 'enough'. How about one more: that's enough of that kind of thinking!!!!! Stop beating yourself up! Yeah, I need to eat my own words every now and then. Am I good enough for you? Are you good enough for me?
Let's look at what it means: good enough means to be adequately good for the circumstances. Okay, what does it mean to be adequate? there are a couple of definitions: 1. as much or as good as necessary for some requirement or purpose; fully sufficient, suitable, or fit 2. barely sufficient or suitable. then it goes on to use an example "being adequate is not good enough." hold up, wait a minute, i am confused?!?! Why am I trying to be good enough again, if being adequate is not good enough for being good enough? Oh, right, because I am looking for a man and in order to get that man I am twisting myself into being something I am not: good enough. Why am I not good enough? Why are none of us good enough for each other? Because we are human. Nothing we do is ever going to be enough for one another. We set expectations of each other and when those expectations fall short we get frustrated. When we do and do and do and get nothing in return we lose hope and giving becomes futile. When someone doesn't feel the same way about us that we feel for them we start trying to become the person we think they want. We lose ourselves in the madness. It's nuts what we do to ourselves!! Oh and let me not forget how we try to compare ourselves to others....i may save that for another day =)
Guess what? It doesn't have to be that way. I have found THE Perfect Man. Finally!!!! You know that song, right? "Finally" by CeCe Peniston(forget the wedding march, if I get married that song will play as I walk down the aisle lol), It just went through my head. Ok so who is it, you wonder. Jen, who is THE Perfect Man and does he have a brother(or sister, whichever the case may be) for me? I am not sure if I want to tell you because I am afraid you will steal him from me! I am only joking, of course. It's Jesus! Yes, I am dating Jesus and you can too! Why is Jesus THE Perfect Man?
1. He loved me(and you too) sooooooo much that He didn't want to live without me so He was tortured and scorned and died for me.
2. Although I am not perfect, He loves me anyway and I don't question that love. I can fail Him over and over again, yet He will still love me. I am the one that deserved hell, and He still loves me.
3. I can count on Him. When I need Him, He is there. 24/7/365
4. There is a song by Whitney Houston "All The Man That I Need" in that song are the lyrics: 'he fills me up, he gives me love, more love than I've ever seen..." Jesus fills all my needs that no one else can.
5. No matter how I look or feel He won't judge me based on how I look. Right now, I look a mess, seriously. But I know beyond a reasonable doubt that now matter how bad I looked or how mad, hurt, scared, sad, happy or excited I am, he would reach out His arms and comfort me. Bottom line, I can 100% be myself with Him.
6. did I mention it's because He loves me? That He has this perfect love for me? Perfect: entirely without any flaws, defects, or shortcomings.
7. This is who He is: my Best Friend. My Rock, My Comforter, My Provider, My Counselor, My Savior...hopefully you get the point.
Don't get me wrong, this relationship requires work on my end. It's not like you meet Him and 5 minutes later it's all easy gong. It's not easy. But if you remember that any relationship that you want to last is a marathon and not sprint, it's makes it easier. Just think of it this way, why wouldn't you want to be with someone who loves you that much? Jesus said in Matthew 6:33 "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Notice how it says ALL things. God knows what is best for you and you would be wise to let Him show you! Even showing you who you spend the rest of your life with.
Let me say one more thing. I know there is no perfect guy out there. I am not going to pretend that there is. But, I don't want to settle either. I want someone who compliments me not completes me, Jesus completes me. I want someone I can live with not someone I can't live without, I can't live without Jesus. I want someone who I can serve God together with and grow stronger with in God. I am never going to be good enough and the man I spend the rest of my life with(if God allows)will never be good enough. We aren't going to feel like we deserve each other. But that is the beauty of grace :) We both get something that we don't deserve, a precious gift: each other. My beloved will be mine and I will be my beloved's.
That was a lot of the word 'enough'. How about one more: that's enough of that kind of thinking!!!!! Stop beating yourself up! Yeah, I need to eat my own words every now and then. Am I good enough for you? Are you good enough for me?
Let's look at what it means: good enough means to be adequately good for the circumstances. Okay, what does it mean to be adequate? there are a couple of definitions: 1. as much or as good as necessary for some requirement or purpose; fully sufficient, suitable, or fit 2. barely sufficient or suitable. then it goes on to use an example "being adequate is not good enough." hold up, wait a minute, i am confused?!?! Why am I trying to be good enough again, if being adequate is not good enough for being good enough? Oh, right, because I am looking for a man and in order to get that man I am twisting myself into being something I am not: good enough. Why am I not good enough? Why are none of us good enough for each other? Because we are human. Nothing we do is ever going to be enough for one another. We set expectations of each other and when those expectations fall short we get frustrated. When we do and do and do and get nothing in return we lose hope and giving becomes futile. When someone doesn't feel the same way about us that we feel for them we start trying to become the person we think they want. We lose ourselves in the madness. It's nuts what we do to ourselves!! Oh and let me not forget how we try to compare ourselves to others....i may save that for another day =)
Guess what? It doesn't have to be that way. I have found THE Perfect Man. Finally!!!! You know that song, right? "Finally" by CeCe Peniston(forget the wedding march, if I get married that song will play as I walk down the aisle lol), It just went through my head. Ok so who is it, you wonder. Jen, who is THE Perfect Man and does he have a brother(or sister, whichever the case may be) for me? I am not sure if I want to tell you because I am afraid you will steal him from me! I am only joking, of course. It's Jesus! Yes, I am dating Jesus and you can too! Why is Jesus THE Perfect Man?
1. He loved me(and you too) sooooooo much that He didn't want to live without me so He was tortured and scorned and died for me.
2. Although I am not perfect, He loves me anyway and I don't question that love. I can fail Him over and over again, yet He will still love me. I am the one that deserved hell, and He still loves me.
3. I can count on Him. When I need Him, He is there. 24/7/365
4. There is a song by Whitney Houston "All The Man That I Need" in that song are the lyrics: 'he fills me up, he gives me love, more love than I've ever seen..." Jesus fills all my needs that no one else can.
5. No matter how I look or feel He won't judge me based on how I look. Right now, I look a mess, seriously. But I know beyond a reasonable doubt that now matter how bad I looked or how mad, hurt, scared, sad, happy or excited I am, he would reach out His arms and comfort me. Bottom line, I can 100% be myself with Him.
6. did I mention it's because He loves me? That He has this perfect love for me? Perfect: entirely without any flaws, defects, or shortcomings.
7. This is who He is: my Best Friend. My Rock, My Comforter, My Provider, My Counselor, My Savior...hopefully you get the point.
Don't get me wrong, this relationship requires work on my end. It's not like you meet Him and 5 minutes later it's all easy gong. It's not easy. But if you remember that any relationship that you want to last is a marathon and not sprint, it's makes it easier. Just think of it this way, why wouldn't you want to be with someone who loves you that much? Jesus said in Matthew 6:33 "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Notice how it says ALL things. God knows what is best for you and you would be wise to let Him show you! Even showing you who you spend the rest of your life with.
Let me say one more thing. I know there is no perfect guy out there. I am not going to pretend that there is. But, I don't want to settle either. I want someone who compliments me not completes me, Jesus completes me. I want someone I can live with not someone I can't live without, I can't live without Jesus. I want someone who I can serve God together with and grow stronger with in God. I am never going to be good enough and the man I spend the rest of my life with(if God allows)will never be good enough. We aren't going to feel like we deserve each other. But that is the beauty of grace :) We both get something that we don't deserve, a precious gift: each other. My beloved will be mine and I will be my beloved's.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
God Is Right There With You
I’m Right There With Ya’
By Sylvia Basham
“I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.”
John 14:18 (KJV)
Devotion:
“I’m right there with ya’!” a mom of a three-year-old boy commiserated to another mom of a three-year-old boy. We were at an all-day volleyball tournament for our daughters and the little tikes (as well as the moms) had already had about as much excitement as they could take. We were all having a late-afternoon meltdown.
Tears welled up in my eyes as I overheard this exchange, and I thought, “I wish I was right there with ya’.” My son Jonathan, had he lived, would have been three also.
Before the trickle of tears could become a raging river, God’s truth proclaimed in my heart, “I AM right there with ya’!” I smiled through my tear-blurred vision and thanked God for His comfort, and for the hope I have in Him. I thanked Him for sustaining me through this journey of grief.
I am thankful that I can be content that I have Christ and He is all I need. As our key verse tells us, Jesus will not leave us comfortless. He will be there. It is a journey to get to that place of contentment in Him, and wanting more than anything else on this earth to be right there with Him. It is also a destination that can be reached if we don’t misplace our hope.
My experience has made me realize there are hurting people, especially as we approach special days during our holiday season, who will be grieving and missing a loved one. This grief may feel all-consuming at times, and they may forget that Christ is right there with them. They will have misplaced their hope. Just as mine had been misplaced in the past, their focus will be on what they don’t have instead of Who they do have. The temporary will displace the eternal, leaving them feeling empty.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 says, “Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him” (NIV).
Having hope when others do not is a choice to believe that this scripture is true.
Now there’s where I really want to be. That’s what a life filled with hope As Isaiah 35:10b says, “Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.” looks like.
It’s incredible how the grief still sneaks up on me sometimes – how moments like that one at the volleyball game make me feel so alone and how my heart is still so tender especially around those special dates. At those times, the journey continues as I draw closer to my true Hope. He is right there with me as I remain right there with Him.
Dear Lord, In times of grief, help me remember You are my Hope and You are right there with me. I pray You open my eyes and heart to others who are hurting and help me remind them of the Hope. Please give me boldness and compassion during this season to introduce the ultimate Hope to others in need of hope. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
By Sylvia Basham
“I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.”
John 14:18 (KJV)
Devotion:
“I’m right there with ya’!” a mom of a three-year-old boy commiserated to another mom of a three-year-old boy. We were at an all-day volleyball tournament for our daughters and the little tikes (as well as the moms) had already had about as much excitement as they could take. We were all having a late-afternoon meltdown.
Tears welled up in my eyes as I overheard this exchange, and I thought, “I wish I was right there with ya’.” My son Jonathan, had he lived, would have been three also.
Before the trickle of tears could become a raging river, God’s truth proclaimed in my heart, “I AM right there with ya’!” I smiled through my tear-blurred vision and thanked God for His comfort, and for the hope I have in Him. I thanked Him for sustaining me through this journey of grief.
I am thankful that I can be content that I have Christ and He is all I need. As our key verse tells us, Jesus will not leave us comfortless. He will be there. It is a journey to get to that place of contentment in Him, and wanting more than anything else on this earth to be right there with Him. It is also a destination that can be reached if we don’t misplace our hope.
My experience has made me realize there are hurting people, especially as we approach special days during our holiday season, who will be grieving and missing a loved one. This grief may feel all-consuming at times, and they may forget that Christ is right there with them. They will have misplaced their hope. Just as mine had been misplaced in the past, their focus will be on what they don’t have instead of Who they do have. The temporary will displace the eternal, leaving them feeling empty.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 says, “Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him” (NIV).
Having hope when others do not is a choice to believe that this scripture is true.
Now there’s where I really want to be. That’s what a life filled with hope As Isaiah 35:10b says, “Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.” looks like.
It’s incredible how the grief still sneaks up on me sometimes – how moments like that one at the volleyball game make me feel so alone and how my heart is still so tender especially around those special dates. At those times, the journey continues as I draw closer to my true Hope. He is right there with me as I remain right there with Him.
Dear Lord, In times of grief, help me remember You are my Hope and You are right there with me. I pray You open my eyes and heart to others who are hurting and help me remind them of the Hope. Please give me boldness and compassion during this season to introduce the ultimate Hope to others in need of hope. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Flooding in Iowa
I am sure by now just about everyone has heard about the flooding in Iowa. 83 out 99 counties have been impacted by the floods. My parents and brother live in Lee County, specifically Montrose, IA(most of Montrose isn't going to be impacted by the flood. Most that will get flooded is down on the river front), just outside of Keokuk, IA. I also have friends that live in Alexandria, MO where there has been flooding. Levees are breaking causing the Mississippi River to come on in. It's just devastating :( My dad is the director for Emergency Management of Lee County and has been super busy! However this comes at a bad time: my mom had one of two hip replacement surgeries yesterday and unfortunately dad was unable to be there. He feels bad enough that he couldn't be there and mom was disappointed, but like she said: 'the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the one'
I think it was actually Spock from Star Trek that said it....I feel bad that I can't be there either. In hindsight, I would have gone had I known it was going to flood.
Here are some links if you want to get updated on the whole ordeal. I am being a little selfish here and putting up some links of articles that my dad are in.
* www.flood2008.iowa.gov
* http://www.dailydem.com/articles/2008/06/11/news/news4.txt
* http://www.thehawkeye.com/Story/lee-flood-061608
* http://khqa.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=147038
you can also google it or check news websites!
I think it was actually Spock from Star Trek that said it....I feel bad that I can't be there either. In hindsight, I would have gone had I known it was going to flood.
Here are some links if you want to get updated on the whole ordeal. I am being a little selfish here and putting up some links of articles that my dad are in.
* www.flood2008.iowa.gov
* http://www.dailydem.com/articles/2008/06/11/news/news4.txt
* http://www.thehawkeye.com/Story/lee-flood-061608
* http://khqa.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=147038
you can also google it or check news websites!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Suspect Arrested
Suspect arrested
Current mood: blank
Suspect arrested in Ignatowski slaying
By SCOTT BRAND
Story created Jun 05, 2008 - 12:32:56 EDT.
SAULT STE. MARIE - Texas authorities have arrested one individual in the weekend slaying of a 27-year-old Sault Ste. Marie woman in her Corpus Christi apartment.
Capt. Todd Green of the Corpus Christi Police Department confirmed Micah Lee Spanutius, 21, was arrested by U.S. Marshals on a murder warrant stemming from a police investigation into the death of Amy Ignatowski.
Spanutius, according to an arrest affidavit cited by the Corpus Christi Caller-Times, reportedly told another individual that he had killed a girl - "putting his hand over her mouth and squeezing her tight." Spanutius also indicated to that same individual that the incident occurred following an argument.
Capt. Green confirmed Spanutius had told a female friend he may have killed a woman by strangling her, providing Texas authorities with a good, solid lead. While authorities were investigating the death as a homicide from the onset, the initial reports indicated only that there were facial abrasions which did not appear serious enough to cause death.
"Nobody knew the manner of death," said Capt. Green as the information regarding neck wounds was withheld from the public and press. "They hadn't released anything on that."
*
That piece of information instantly made Spanutius the prime suspect in the Ignatowski murder even though the Nueces County Medical Examiner's Office has not officially listed the exact cause of death. Capt. Green said detectives noted marks and bruising on the deceased woman's neck consistent with manual asphyxiation or, in layman's terms, strangulation.
Authorities have been unable to determine Spanutius' motive for the murder, said Capt. Green: "He has refused to talk to investigators."
Ignatowski, a 1998 graduate of Sault High, had clearly touched many lives. Her MySpace page has become a focal point for grieving friends to share via the Internet.
"My heart hurts in a way I never thought it could," wrote Michelle.
"Rest in peace beautiful Amy," added Stephanie.
"I plan to wear a little pink everyday in honor of our sunshine girl," added Leigh, making reference to Amy's favorite color.
There were many more tributes from former college roommates, fellow members of the U.S. Coast Guard and others she had met along the way in her 27 years.
The daughter of Paul and Robin Ignatowski, Amy will be brought back to Sault Ste. Marie for burial. Visitation is scheduled from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday at the C.S. Mulder Funeral Home. Services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral.
Spanutius remained lodged in the Nueces County Jail on suspicion of murder, unable to post the $100,000 bond.
Current mood: blank
Suspect arrested in Ignatowski slaying
By SCOTT BRAND
Story created Jun 05, 2008 - 12:32:56 EDT.
SAULT STE. MARIE - Texas authorities have arrested one individual in the weekend slaying of a 27-year-old Sault Ste. Marie woman in her Corpus Christi apartment.
Capt. Todd Green of the Corpus Christi Police Department confirmed Micah Lee Spanutius, 21, was arrested by U.S. Marshals on a murder warrant stemming from a police investigation into the death of Amy Ignatowski.
Spanutius, according to an arrest affidavit cited by the Corpus Christi Caller-Times, reportedly told another individual that he had killed a girl - "putting his hand over her mouth and squeezing her tight." Spanutius also indicated to that same individual that the incident occurred following an argument.
Capt. Green confirmed Spanutius had told a female friend he may have killed a woman by strangling her, providing Texas authorities with a good, solid lead. While authorities were investigating the death as a homicide from the onset, the initial reports indicated only that there were facial abrasions which did not appear serious enough to cause death.
"Nobody knew the manner of death," said Capt. Green as the information regarding neck wounds was withheld from the public and press. "They hadn't released anything on that."
*
That piece of information instantly made Spanutius the prime suspect in the Ignatowski murder even though the Nueces County Medical Examiner's Office has not officially listed the exact cause of death. Capt. Green said detectives noted marks and bruising on the deceased woman's neck consistent with manual asphyxiation or, in layman's terms, strangulation.
Authorities have been unable to determine Spanutius' motive for the murder, said Capt. Green: "He has refused to talk to investigators."
Ignatowski, a 1998 graduate of Sault High, had clearly touched many lives. Her MySpace page has become a focal point for grieving friends to share via the Internet.
"My heart hurts in a way I never thought it could," wrote Michelle.
"Rest in peace beautiful Amy," added Stephanie.
"I plan to wear a little pink everyday in honor of our sunshine girl," added Leigh, making reference to Amy's favorite color.
There were many more tributes from former college roommates, fellow members of the U.S. Coast Guard and others she had met along the way in her 27 years.
The daughter of Paul and Robin Ignatowski, Amy will be brought back to Sault Ste. Marie for burial. Visitation is scheduled from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday at the C.S. Mulder Funeral Home. Services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral.
Spanutius remained lodged in the Nueces County Jail on suspicion of murder, unable to post the $100,000 bond.
A friend from high school
This is about the death of a friend I went to high school with
Authorities Investigate Death of Sault Woman
Current mood: sad
Category: Life
Authorities investigate death of Sault woman
Story created Jun 04, 2008 - 12:29:51 EDT.
Police consider death of 27-year-old Amy Ignatowski a homicide
By SCOTT BRAND
SAULT STE. MARIE - Texas authorities are investigating the death of a Sault Ste. Marie resident after 27-year-old Amy Ignatowski was found dead in her Corpus Christi apartment.
According to reports published in the Corpus Christi Caller-Times, police are investigating the weekend death as a homicide. Ignatowski, a petty officer 3rd class in the U.S. Coast Guard, had been out Friday evening celebrating with friends with the group breaking up around 2 a.m. Saturday. A friend taking care of Ignatowski's dog discovered her lifeless body at 4 p.m. Saturday.
The Corpus Christi Caller-Times also reports police have a strong indication as to the cause of death, but they are withholding that information because its release might jeopardize the investigation. The Nueces County Medical Examiner's Office has not ruled on a cause or manner of death in its preliminary report. Evidence in the form of facial abrasions on the deceased suggests the woman may have been beaten, but police do not believe the injuries appeared serious enough to cause her death.
The daughter of Paul and Robin Ignatowski, Amy graduated from Sault High in 1998. Principal Ken Sherman said he did not move to the high school until the year after Ignatowski graduated, but he did recall her from his days as an elementary physical education teacher.
"She was always very friendly," said Sherman. "Always quiet - very easy to work with."
Those who knew her later in life provided their own descriptions for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times.
"There wasn't a day she wasn't smiling, happy and thinking of the next adventure in her life to undertake," friend and former roommate Lindsay Weber told the Texas publication. "Even when things weren't great in her life or she was having a bad day she didn't let on."
Another friend and former roommate from Ignatowski's days at Grand Valley State University, Katie Kopelman, shared similar memories.
"She was a force of nature," said Kopelman. "There are just so many people whose lives will never be the same now... She touched everybody that she met. If she met somebody one time, they instantly fell in love with her."
Juan Carlos of the U.S. Coast Guard Sault Station said Ignatowski joined on Nov. 15, 2005 and, after completing basic training, was stationed on the Polar Sea out of Seattle. She went on to the Humboldt Bay Air Station before attending Aircraft Maintenance Technician school. After completing her training, she was stationed at Corpus Christi - working on airplanes and helicopters.
Funeral services will be handled by C.S. Mulder Funeral Home of Sault Ste. Marie. Visitation is scheduled from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday with funeral services scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral.
Burial, complete with the U.S. Coast Guard Honor Guard, will follow the funeral at Oak Lawn Cemetery.
Authorities Investigate Death of Sault Woman
Current mood: sad
Category: Life
Authorities investigate death of Sault woman
Story created Jun 04, 2008 - 12:29:51 EDT.
Police consider death of 27-year-old Amy Ignatowski a homicide
By SCOTT BRAND
SAULT STE. MARIE - Texas authorities are investigating the death of a Sault Ste. Marie resident after 27-year-old Amy Ignatowski was found dead in her Corpus Christi apartment.
According to reports published in the Corpus Christi Caller-Times, police are investigating the weekend death as a homicide. Ignatowski, a petty officer 3rd class in the U.S. Coast Guard, had been out Friday evening celebrating with friends with the group breaking up around 2 a.m. Saturday. A friend taking care of Ignatowski's dog discovered her lifeless body at 4 p.m. Saturday.
The Corpus Christi Caller-Times also reports police have a strong indication as to the cause of death, but they are withholding that information because its release might jeopardize the investigation. The Nueces County Medical Examiner's Office has not ruled on a cause or manner of death in its preliminary report. Evidence in the form of facial abrasions on the deceased suggests the woman may have been beaten, but police do not believe the injuries appeared serious enough to cause her death.
The daughter of Paul and Robin Ignatowski, Amy graduated from Sault High in 1998. Principal Ken Sherman said he did not move to the high school until the year after Ignatowski graduated, but he did recall her from his days as an elementary physical education teacher.
"She was always very friendly," said Sherman. "Always quiet - very easy to work with."
Those who knew her later in life provided their own descriptions for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times.
"There wasn't a day she wasn't smiling, happy and thinking of the next adventure in her life to undertake," friend and former roommate Lindsay Weber told the Texas publication. "Even when things weren't great in her life or she was having a bad day she didn't let on."
Another friend and former roommate from Ignatowski's days at Grand Valley State University, Katie Kopelman, shared similar memories.
"She was a force of nature," said Kopelman. "There are just so many people whose lives will never be the same now... She touched everybody that she met. If she met somebody one time, they instantly fell in love with her."
Juan Carlos of the U.S. Coast Guard Sault Station said Ignatowski joined on Nov. 15, 2005 and, after completing basic training, was stationed on the Polar Sea out of Seattle. She went on to the Humboldt Bay Air Station before attending Aircraft Maintenance Technician school. After completing her training, she was stationed at Corpus Christi - working on airplanes and helicopters.
Funeral services will be handled by C.S. Mulder Funeral Home of Sault Ste. Marie. Visitation is scheduled from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday with funeral services scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral.
Burial, complete with the U.S. Coast Guard Honor Guard, will follow the funeral at Oak Lawn Cemetery.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
2 great songs!!
these 2 songs by Fireflight are fantastic! I'm not exactly sure why i like them. "Unbreakable" i think gives me some sort of power. Strength if u will...reminds me of Philippians 4:13.
The second one: "Forever" just describes how I have felt for the past few weeks. I know that God will watch over me no matter what =)
Here are the lyrics and you can decide if you like them :)
UNBREAKABLE
Where are the people that accused me?
The ones who beat me down and bruised me
They hide just out of sight
Can't face me in the light
They'll return but I'll be stronger
God, I want to dream again
Take me where I've never been
I want to go there
This time I'm not scared
Now I am unbreakable, it's unmistakable
No one can touch me
Nothing can stop me
Sometimes it's hard to just keep going
But faith is moving without knowing
Can I trust what I can't see
To reach my destiny
I want to take control but I know better
Forget the fear it's just a crutch
That tries to hold you back
And turn your dreams to dust
All you need to do is just trust
FOREVER
Sometimes I feel so cold
Like I'm waiting around all by myself
Loneliness gets so old
I'm in the lost and found sitting on the shelf
Been stuck for way too long
But I hear Your voice
You're who I'm counting on
Oh, tell me You're here
That You will watch over me forever
Oh, take hold of my heart
Show me You'll love me forever
I know that You can tell
When I start to let my hope fade away
I need to catch myself
Open my ears to hear You calling my name
Been fighting way too long
But I hear Your voice
You had me all along
When I'm starting to drown
You jump in to save me
When my world's upside down
Your hands, they shake me and wake me
The second one: "Forever" just describes how I have felt for the past few weeks. I know that God will watch over me no matter what =)
Here are the lyrics and you can decide if you like them :)
UNBREAKABLE
Where are the people that accused me?
The ones who beat me down and bruised me
They hide just out of sight
Can't face me in the light
They'll return but I'll be stronger
God, I want to dream again
Take me where I've never been
I want to go there
This time I'm not scared
Now I am unbreakable, it's unmistakable
No one can touch me
Nothing can stop me
Sometimes it's hard to just keep going
But faith is moving without knowing
Can I trust what I can't see
To reach my destiny
I want to take control but I know better
Forget the fear it's just a crutch
That tries to hold you back
And turn your dreams to dust
All you need to do is just trust
FOREVER
Sometimes I feel so cold
Like I'm waiting around all by myself
Loneliness gets so old
I'm in the lost and found sitting on the shelf
Been stuck for way too long
But I hear Your voice
You're who I'm counting on
Oh, tell me You're here
That You will watch over me forever
Oh, take hold of my heart
Show me You'll love me forever
I know that You can tell
When I start to let my hope fade away
I need to catch myself
Open my ears to hear You calling my name
Been fighting way too long
But I hear Your voice
You had me all along
When I'm starting to drown
You jump in to save me
When my world's upside down
Your hands, they shake me and wake me
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Lay It on the Line and then Lie Down!
I just got this in an email from my friend, Melinda. I know that I can certainly throw myself into a ministry and lose myself in it. Not that it's a bad thing to do your best and strive for perfection, but when it takes over your life, that is when it's time to check your heart attitude and figure out why you are going overboard...Sometimes you just a love ministry so much and want to see it grow and be healthy that you yourself forget to grow and be healthy.
Thanks for passing it along Melinda :)
McLean Bible Weblog
Lay It on the Line and then Lie Down!
Posted: 22 May 2008 12:01 AM CDT
Mike Kelsey, Frontline Associate Director of Ministry OutreachPsalm 127:1-2
Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat- for he grants sleep to those he loves.
Burnout. We all know it. We all hear about it. Some of us think we're immune to it while others of us wear it as a badge of honor. Unfortunately, ministry can sometimes become an unhealthy source of frustration and fatigue. With the best intentions, we push ourselves beyond our limit and eventually find ourselves disillusioned. Although hard work honors God, sometimes it can actually be what pulls us away from Him and makes us ineffective. Consider these verses from King Solomon:
"Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat- for he grants sleep to those he loves." (Psalm 127:1-2)
We can work all day and all night, even for the Lord, and find out that our work has been meaningless. Why? Because God never intended us to work at the expense of our health - physically, mentally, emotionally, or relationally. The combination of "rising early" and "staying up late" can be a symptom that we are carrying a burden that is not ours to carry. There's a stark contrast between our anxious efforts and the reality that God "grants sleep to those he loves." The balance is being able to stop and rest, knowing with confidence that the Lord has taken the divine responsibility to accomplish His purposes. It's counterintuitive, but rest is one of the most effective ways to get work done.
Dear God: Lord, with the best intentions, it is so easy to forgot that You are the master builder. Not only will You teach me how to work effectively, but it is You who actually makes it effective. Please help me to remember that as I serve in ministry. Help me not to become overwhelmed by the ministry roles You've assigned me. Give me the diligence to serve wholeheartedly but give me the confidence to know that You ultimately cause success. Free my heart from the pride of work-a-holism and from the strain of anxiety. Thank You Lord, for Your promise of rest. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Thanks for passing it along Melinda :)
McLean Bible Weblog
Lay It on the Line and then Lie Down!
Posted: 22 May 2008 12:01 AM CDT
Mike Kelsey, Frontline Associate Director of Ministry OutreachPsalm 127:1-2
Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat- for he grants sleep to those he loves.
Burnout. We all know it. We all hear about it. Some of us think we're immune to it while others of us wear it as a badge of honor. Unfortunately, ministry can sometimes become an unhealthy source of frustration and fatigue. With the best intentions, we push ourselves beyond our limit and eventually find ourselves disillusioned. Although hard work honors God, sometimes it can actually be what pulls us away from Him and makes us ineffective. Consider these verses from King Solomon:
"Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat- for he grants sleep to those he loves." (Psalm 127:1-2)
We can work all day and all night, even for the Lord, and find out that our work has been meaningless. Why? Because God never intended us to work at the expense of our health - physically, mentally, emotionally, or relationally. The combination of "rising early" and "staying up late" can be a symptom that we are carrying a burden that is not ours to carry. There's a stark contrast between our anxious efforts and the reality that God "grants sleep to those he loves." The balance is being able to stop and rest, knowing with confidence that the Lord has taken the divine responsibility to accomplish His purposes. It's counterintuitive, but rest is one of the most effective ways to get work done.
Dear God: Lord, with the best intentions, it is so easy to forgot that You are the master builder. Not only will You teach me how to work effectively, but it is You who actually makes it effective. Please help me to remember that as I serve in ministry. Help me not to become overwhelmed by the ministry roles You've assigned me. Give me the diligence to serve wholeheartedly but give me the confidence to know that You ultimately cause success. Free my heart from the pride of work-a-holism and from the strain of anxiety. Thank You Lord, for Your promise of rest. In Jesus' name, Amen.
God uses Cars
Now I know that I should blog something personal. I have this blog for several months and I barely use it. I think now is the time that I should! I wanted to put something in here that was useful. It's about prayer and useful tips on how to pray for people. I don't know about you, but if I prayed for everyone everyday, I would never come out of my room :) I hope this helps you; it certainly has helped me!! I get this daily devotional from Proverbs 31 Ministries. www.proverbs31.org
May 15, 2008
God Uses Cars
Marybeth Whalen
“As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you.
And I will teach you the way that is good and right”
I Samuel 12:23 (NIV)
Devotion:
Do you pray in your car? How about in the shower? Or while you are brushing your teeth? These are all moments in my day when I have learned to take advantage of the time I have to pray. This lesson was brought home to me in a whole new way one day as I was out driving around. It was one of those days when I had a long list of errands and many parking lots and highways to navigate. As I drove, I noticed a silver sedan ahead of me, which made me think of a friend of mine who drives one of those kinds of cars and was going through a tough time. As I looked at the car, I felt like God was telling me that my friend really needed my prayers that day. And so I prayed, and made a mental note to call her and check in with her as soon as I got home.
Just a few minutes later, I saw another similar silver sedan, and so I prayed again. Moments later, another one. This continued on throughout the day. By the end of the day, I was just laughing at how God had arranged for me to notice so many of these silver sedans—so many that I couldn’t not pray for my friend all day. I was reminded that day in a powerful way that: 1) God loves each of us enough to bring reminders to others to pray for us, and 2) God wants us to pray for our brothers and sisters. If we are obedient, He will send us reminders to help us lest we forget in all the busyness of our lives. Saying, “Oh, I meant to pray but I forgot” will be a thing of the past if we rely on Him to help us remember. As my silver car example proves, He can provide us with some pretty creative reminders.
I know one woman who knew she needed to pray for her brother who was going through a tough time. So she decided to pray for him every time she brushed her teeth. Even after her brother’s hard time was behind him, she still found herself praying for him while she brushed her teeth, and was grateful that, through this commitment to prayer, she had formed a habit. So, she continued to pray for her brother and still does to this day.
No matter where or when or what God uses to prompt us to pray, we know that it is vital to pray. God uses cars, and toothbrushes and anything else that is needed to help us remember to intercede for those people who desperately need our prayers. As a recipient of some of those prayers through the years, I am grateful for a creative, involved, active, loving God who will use whatever He can to remind us to lift up each other in prayer.
Dear Lord, please remind me who I need to pray for and help me to be obedient to pray for them immediately. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
May 15, 2008
God Uses Cars
Marybeth Whalen
“As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you.
And I will teach you the way that is good and right”
I Samuel 12:23 (NIV)
Devotion:
Do you pray in your car? How about in the shower? Or while you are brushing your teeth? These are all moments in my day when I have learned to take advantage of the time I have to pray. This lesson was brought home to me in a whole new way one day as I was out driving around. It was one of those days when I had a long list of errands and many parking lots and highways to navigate. As I drove, I noticed a silver sedan ahead of me, which made me think of a friend of mine who drives one of those kinds of cars and was going through a tough time. As I looked at the car, I felt like God was telling me that my friend really needed my prayers that day. And so I prayed, and made a mental note to call her and check in with her as soon as I got home.
Just a few minutes later, I saw another similar silver sedan, and so I prayed again. Moments later, another one. This continued on throughout the day. By the end of the day, I was just laughing at how God had arranged for me to notice so many of these silver sedans—so many that I couldn’t not pray for my friend all day. I was reminded that day in a powerful way that: 1) God loves each of us enough to bring reminders to others to pray for us, and 2) God wants us to pray for our brothers and sisters. If we are obedient, He will send us reminders to help us lest we forget in all the busyness of our lives. Saying, “Oh, I meant to pray but I forgot” will be a thing of the past if we rely on Him to help us remember. As my silver car example proves, He can provide us with some pretty creative reminders.
I know one woman who knew she needed to pray for her brother who was going through a tough time. So she decided to pray for him every time she brushed her teeth. Even after her brother’s hard time was behind him, she still found herself praying for him while she brushed her teeth, and was grateful that, through this commitment to prayer, she had formed a habit. So, she continued to pray for her brother and still does to this day.
No matter where or when or what God uses to prompt us to pray, we know that it is vital to pray. God uses cars, and toothbrushes and anything else that is needed to help us remember to intercede for those people who desperately need our prayers. As a recipient of some of those prayers through the years, I am grateful for a creative, involved, active, loving God who will use whatever He can to remind us to lift up each other in prayer.
Dear Lord, please remind me who I need to pray for and help me to be obedient to pray for them immediately. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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