Journal

WHERE IS SPRING!! - 03-06-2010
The snow continues to fall here in Tennessee and I am ready for some warmer weather! Of course, weather is always relative. Our family and friends down in Texas might envy our cooler temps here, while those to the north would LOVE a nice balmy 40-degree day right about now. So while I wait for things to turn pleasant outside, I turn to what needs to be done inside, and that means – SPRING CLEANING! I have never actually performed this legendary duty but I hear it is worth the mammoth effort. A clean, organized, peaceful dwelling? I love the idea. I’m just not sure I have what it takes to make it happen. If you could see the clutter that I can see now, you would have your doubts as well. Much more crowded and cluttered is my own inside – the territory of my heart and mind. Lately, it has been filled with a multitude of things, some good, some…well, not AS good, and some, just plain bad. I’m amazed at how easy it is for me to let time slip by with not much to show for how I spent it. The mess in my house is evidence that I haven’t taken the time to take inventory and get rid of the things we really don’t need that are just taking up space. The mess in my mind is evidence of the same. When I get close to God on a daily basis, spend time with Him, He heals my perspective – the clutter is cleared, my focus is refreshed, and my life becomes a more peaceful dwelling place. This is my hope for this spring, which, next to autumn, is my favorite time of year. Spring is renewal, warmth, life, fresh energy! So let’s all get ready for it by cleaning house – literally and figuratively! Romans 12:2



Season's Greetings! - 12-25-2009
Immanuel - God WITH us! That's what makes it a Merry Christmas! God bless you and yours and may you have a happy, healthy, and safe New Year!



December...again - 12-23-2009
It is always hard for me to believe how long it takes for this season to get here and how stunningly FAST it goes by. This year, that sensation is intensified by the things that have been going on around here. A LOT has changed at the Jennings house since last Christmas…new job, new car, new record, new baby! Like I said, a LOT. There are many thoughts I could share now about having a child, and relating to Mary, the mother of Jesus, and how deeply profound it is to stare at my child when she sleeps or smiles the way she must have stared at the Savior. But let’s go back to the car instead. I have been driving the same car for almost 16 years. That’s right – she’s a 1994 Honda, and this week, we bid a fond and grateful adieu. Now, there is absolutely nothing wrong with driving a paid-for car for as long as possible. The problem for me was that I had been driving this one for so long, I couldn’t really see what bad shape she was in – faulty brakes, rough steering, loose transmission, hesitant engine…I got used to all of it. Not until I drove the new(er) car across town in a downpour (with my infant daughter in the back seat) did I realize what a rut I had been in. I was driving a potential accident, when I could’ve – probably SHOULD’VE – gotten into a better situation a long time ago. How true this has been in my life! I wonder how many times I have missed out on something great because I was so blindly comfortable where I was, or because it was too difficult or complicated to contemplate a change. I hope this isn’t you this Christmas. I hope you aren’t settling for decent, when you could be experiencing awesome. Get hold of the greatest gift of all this season and start living in abundance! John 10:10



WHAT new CD? - 12-23-2009
About a month before Annie was due to arrive, John thought it would be a good time to record a new project. We decided to make something to celebrate the new season we were preparing to enter. So in honor of Annie Ruth, we are happy to introduce Quiet Rest: Lullabies for the Children of God. It’s a collection of hymns arranged to soothe and comfort, played on real instruments by real people. No kiddie stuff here! In fact, even though there’s a picture of an ADORABLE baby on the cover (not ours, by the way), this record is just fine for all ages (appropriate for everyone on your gift list!) As we began working on it, I thought, what do I want my daughter to hear in her earliest days? What do I want to be the first songs she learns? These are the first worship songs I knew and contributed a great deal to my view of God. I want them to do the same for Annie. Please come in, have a listen, and be reminded of the simple truth of God’s great love



I'm under a spell... - 10-20-2009
Only this magic is unlike any other. It’s not the silly, nonsensical incantations spouted in Bewitched or Harry Potter. This magic has a name. Several names actually: honey, sugar, punkin, darlin’, baby, Annie. But my favorite name for her is Daughter. I am referring, of course, to MY daughter, Annie Ruth, born to two very grateful parents a week ago today. She is a dream. I think I appreciate her status as Daughter because it’s something she and I have in common that has little to do with our mother/daughter relationship. We are both daughters of mothers who love us deeply and strongly; we are both daughters of fathers who have demonstrated the heart of God to us; and we are both Daughters of the Most High, who the Psalmist says is enthralled by our beauty (45:11). I look at her differently than I will ever look at another human and I am overwhelmed by this new insight into how my Father must look at me, HIS child. I am also reminded of a precious scripture at the end of the book of Job, in his confession for the ages: “My ears had heard of you, but now my eyes have seen You.” My friend, Julianne, delivered her son last spring, when I was about four months pregnant. She’s been telling me how wonderful and wonder-filled it is to hold and behold your own child. I have been anticipating those feelings for nine months, but I could have been pregnant for nine YEARS and never have been able to appreciate the difference between the anticipation and the actual experience. I heard my friend’s words, and I believed her, but I could only guess at how it must feel. Now I am entrenched in the reality of what she was describing. It compels me – DRIVES me – to the side of God, where there really is perfect love and fullness of joy.



FALL! - 09-15-2009
Well, Diaper Tour ’09 is over and all of a sudden we find ourselves about 4 weeks away from having a baby! I’ve written before about how much I love the changing of the seasons and now, once again, we are entering my favorite time of the year! The smells, the colors, the temperature changes! Okay, the temperature has not actually changed that much yet, but it will! The Bible teaches that there is a season for everything and I’ve discovered that that includes gestation. No matter how great and gloriously comfortable the second trimester is for an expecting woman – the THIRD trimester is coming. DUH Duh duh!! So now, we wait. There are still so many things to think about, worry about, wonder about. Will she be okay? Will I be okay? Will John learn how to change a diaper? Haha! But God just keeps reminding us in His singularly personal ways that He is close and in control. He is working all things according to HIS purpose and He is doing so out of deep love and compassion. So we have peace. May you also have peace in this lovely time – watch football, light a harvest-scented candle, eat candy corn, and be reminded that our Father is in control of ALL things and is working them out for our good!



Annie Ruth - 08-14-2009
Hi, all! I know it’s been a while since my last update here. We’re a little preoccupied in our house these days (see previous entry). We’ve been trying to wedge shopping, showers, and nursery completion in between trips to Texas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida. Oh, and an anniversary trip to Alaska. It’s been interesting. But we did find out some glorious news earlier in the summer – we’re having a GIRL! Thrillsville! Actually, I wasn’t sure how excited I was about it at first. I think I wanted a boy and just didn’t know it. Girls are a little intimidating to me and RAISING one seems impossible! BUT God is wise, and in His wisdom, He said “daughter” – and we are very anxious to meet her face to face! We have given her the name Annie Ruth, a name I found on my family tree some 15 years ago. Annie Ruth was one of my Granny’s first cousins, which in itself is significant to me, as my first cousins are like my siblings. My mother’s name is Delania Ruth, and I said to myself, “Hmm, I shall keep this name a secret and someday I shall use it for a daughter if I ever have one.” As it happened, some years later, I met and married a guy whose beloved Grandmother (whom I also adored), was named Annie. The name Ann is also shared by a couple of other very significant women on both sides of our family. So our daughter is inheriting her name from some great ladies. I recently looked up the meaning and origin of both names. I love what I learned. Annie Ruth (both names derive from biblical sources) translates into “gracious friend”, or "compassionate companion". I pray that she will grow to become just that. Blessings to you until next time. Who knows? By the time I write again, I may be a mom!



LIFE! - 04-22-2009
We are delighted to announce that, later this year, our touring schedule will be slowing down significantly. In fact, we will not be booking any dates between the end of August and the beginning of December because I’M HAVING A BABY!! Oh, man!! I wish I could tell the full, 3-and-a-half-year story that has led to this point. I’m sure someday I will have that opportunity but for now, it is sufficient to say that beyond prayer and medical advances (and they are both invaluable), only God has the power to create life. Needless to say, John and I are thrilled and also a bit scared and nervous. Anyone would be. If I thought I was anxious while I was trying and hoping to get pregnant, that was nothing compared to the next-level anxiety that comes with a positive pregnancy test. As my wise husband pointed out, though, we have just purchased a lifetime of worry and concern. WE ARE GOING TO BE SOMEONE’S PARENTS! Thank God we have Him! We don’t even know the gender yet, but God knows the very core and identity of this person inside of me and loves him or her far more deeply than John and I ever will. We are all three equally in His care. So many verses have sprung up from God’s living word lately but there two I want to share today: “May He give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.” Psalm 20:4 (NIV) And I love this one: “No wonder we are happy in the Lord! For we are trusting in Him.” Psalm 33:21 (TLB) The first is a prayer for you as you read this. The second is one I pray over myself, that I would continue to be happy trusting my Creator, no matter what the coming days hold for me and my family.



He is risen! - 04-12-2009
He is risen indeed! "When you were dead in your transgressions...He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions, having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross." Col. 2:13-14



A time for every purpose... - 03-18-2009
Spring is springing around here and I am in the best mood! Today, John gave our grass its first cut of the year, I took Joey to the dog park, and the smell of Coppertone envelops me even as I write this! One of the things I love most about living in this part of the country is the dramatic way the seasons change. Having grown up in Houston (where the seasons are summer and January), it’s still novel to me that the leaves change colors in the fall, disappear in winter, and return in glorious green every spring. And I am always so ready for the next season to arrive – just when I have had enough summer, autumn comes. Just when I am about OVER the cold, spring arrives. It is a beautiful cycle of change. My life is the same. I have lived through all kinds of seasons. I have experienced winter’s cold chill in the hot middle of summer and I have been warmed by comfort and joy in the dead of winter. Change is good. Let me say it again – change is GOOD. It is not always pleasant or comfortable but it is always necessary and always for our benefit. What kind of world would it be if it were autumn all year round? Or if, heaven help us, summer lasted for 365 days? The Byrds were right (for you youngsters, they were a band in the ‘60s, before my time, mind you) – “for everything…there is a season.” Actually, they did not make that up on their own – they can thank King Solomon for those wise words, written in Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.” God appoints the changes. Let’s follow Him, not fight Him, through the process, that we may have peace in our own seasons. Meanwhile, don’t wile away these incredible days indoors. Go outside – buy a birdfeeder, buy a DOG, go to the park, sit in your own yard! Enjoy the creative beauty of the beautiful Creator and breathe deep from His fresh air! God bless you!



Get up and dance! - 01-19-2009
Happy New Year! I hope you are embracing this new year for the opportunity and possiblity it brings - time is such a gift. John and I have already been busy in Oh-Nine. We started it off in Keller, TX, just outside of Dallas-Ft. Worth. We were in all THREE of their morning services, then did a concert that evening. Lovely people, great time of worship. Afterward, at my CD table, a woman told me that at the beginning of the concert, as soon as I started singing, her little girl started dancing! (Awesome! I wish I had seen that.) Then, the little gal looked around the room, and asked, "Mommy, why isn't everybody dancing?" Wow. That's quite an astute question from one so young. I know that we all worship differently, some less outwardly than others, and I know that just because a person is not jumping about, it doesn't mean he isn't worshipping. But sometimes, it's just the right response. We have all experienced something that made us want to jump up and down - the winning touchdown, the first kiss, new car...What about the eternal life? How does it make you feel to know that you have been made right with almighty God, and that He loves you deeply with an incorruptible love, and is walking with you now and preparing your place in heaven for later? Make you feel like dancing? It should. David did it - he danced like a mad man, he loved God so much. So why aren't you dancing? Get up and dance! Do it in the privacy (and safety) of your own living room, if you must, but dance like mad! And don't worry what you look like or if you're any good - if your outside is dancing because your INSIDE is dancing, it will be beautiful - and your Father will love it! 2 Samuel 6:14



Merry Christmas - 12-09-2008
It's that time of year when the world falls in love and every song you hear seems to say, "Merry Christmas"! Right now in Nashville, it's pouring down rain, not snow, and the holidays have begun. Tree is up, lights are lit, and my grandmother's nativity scene is sitting in a place of honor in my dining room. This season carries so much meaning for me. Every ornament, decoration, and tradition holds some kind of significance for me, some special memory that relates to someone or some thing in my life. And it doesn't matter how cold it gets outside, my heart is continually warmed by the Christmastide. I hope you experience this season in a similar way this year. May your days be merry and bright, and your New Year dreams come true. Most of all, I hope you enjoy the reality of Immanuel - the nearness of God. Merry Christmas!



To seek and save the lost... - 09-15-2008
Hurricane Ike barreled through my hometown this weekend, leaving a trail of devastation, as hurricanes usually do. My family are all fine, thank God. No trees on houses, no loss of property, no injuries. Over the weekend, we watched weather coverage almost non-stop, trying to get an idea of what to expect, and more importantly, when it would be over. This morning, I was in the airport in Florida and overheard this on the news: "Crews are now going back in to the ravaged areas, searching for those who refused to heed the mandatory evacuation order and are now begging for rescue." I turned to John and said, "Wow. That's grace, isn't it?" They refused to leave, despite the warnings and despite the assistance that was being offered. "It was so much worse than we thought it would be." "I left for the previous storm and didn't feel like I had enough money to leave again." "We wanted to protect our home and our way of life." People gave all kinds of reasons why they stayed; and they know now that they should have left. But the glorious fact is in the news above: "Crews are now going back in to the ravaged areas, searching for those who refused to heed the mandatory evacuation order and are now begging for rescue." They are not being ignored or left to fend for themselves, though some might say that's exactly what they deserve. After all, they were warned, weren't they? But I'm no different. I've been warned about the consequences of sin over and over but I barrel headlong into it anyway. Sometimes I underestimate its devastating power. Other times, I'm trying to hold on to my life as I know it. Sometimes, I'm just assuming God will come and rescue me from myself. In any case, it's sin and it's foolish. I praise God for Psalm 103 - "He does not treat us as our sins deserve, or repay us according to our iniquities." May that truth dwell deeply in my soul and compel me to choose wisdom over folly. Psalm 1:1-2



Whatever... - 08-13-2008
That word has become part of the human vernacular. "What do you want for dinner?" "Whatever." "Which movie do you want to see?" "Whatever." "You look really nice today." "Whatever." I admit, I overuse it myself. One of my favorite movies (trust me - there's a link and a point) is Groundhog Day, the one where Bill Murray has to keep living the same day over and over and over...I read recently that the actual time frame the movie covers is 10 years. Ten years! Living the same day over and over. (Some of you may feel like you can relate.) You may remember that at the beginning of the movie, he's a total jerk and kind of a local celebrity - a TV weather man who does his job well but not as good as he thinks he does it. He does a lot of decent things but for indecent purposes. UNTIL - some mystic force sticks him in Groundhog Day for what must seem like an eternity for him. THEN - he falls in love. Eventually, he begins to do things differently. He's still a weatherman, giving the SAME report on Punxatawney Phil every single day, performing various civic services, and mixing it up with his crew, but he becomes a different person with a different purpose, and his activities take on new vitality. So what is my point? There is really a lot of power in "whatever". Most of us don't have the luxury of knowing exactly what each day will hold (remember Bill Murray timing out his robbery of the armored truck?). For some of us the days are all different and completely nuts. For some of us, the days are so much the same, they seem to run into each other. But there's encouragement, as usual, in the fresh word of God: Colossians 3:17 - "WHATEVER (seriously, that word is in the Bible) you do, whether it's what you say or what you do, do it all in the name of Jesus, thanking God all the while. (my paraphrase)" Whether we see our days as earth-shaking or totally mundane, God is the one who breathes life and purpose into the work of our hands and the words of our mouths. So as it turns out, there's a lot of freedom in "whatever". Take and enjoy!



Giving up - 06-18-2008
This week, we're recording lead vocals for the new CD and I'm supposed to be on vocal rest. I will now pause for a requisite amount of time for those who know me to laugh hysterically. Shelley does not do well trying to limit words. Give up talking? Please. It reminds me of a hilarious sit-com moment from a few years back. One of the main characters, Dave, was trying to convince his coworker, Bill, to quit smoking. To show his support, Dave committed to giving up something difficult himself - his 10-pot a day caffeine habit. Bill said to make things truly even, Dave should have to give up something REALLY important - "like going to the bathroom." I know how he feels. Give up talking? Does that mean I'm addicted to words? Or the sound of my own voice? I'm not sure what it means actually, but it makes me wonder: if I have such a hard time keeping my mouth shut just for a minute, what else am I clinging to - behavioral or otherwise - that's causing me trouble? That list could contain a million things. And that's just my list for today. Tomorrow, it will probably change. The goal of vocal rest now is to have a stronger, clearer tone later. The goal of quitting smoking or improving a diet is better health. Just like in my diet, my goal for my life is to cut the fat and get to the meat - what is really important? What do I really want and how am I going to get it? I want intimacy with God. I want to know Him well, and to have a deep desire to make Him well-known. It is not a light-hearted question: what am I willing to do (or not do) to achieve that? He has done His beautiful part. He will make me able to do mine. Hebrews 12:1-2



Beauty - 05-31-2008
Well, I've been to Hawaii. It's one of those places everyone hears about, most want to visit, and so many never get to. We were there for 11 glorious days - part on a cruise ship (which we highly recommend for economic value) and part in a couple of Marriotts. It was everything we ever heard or imagined it would be. It lived up to the hype. It delivered. That's not a small acknowledgement in a world where most things promise greatness and barely deliver mediocrity. The older I get, I'm afraid, the more cynical I become. I expect less and less - and in most cases, that's exactly what I get. Last week, I was personal witness to what the hand of God can do. If he cares so much about the landscape of what used to be a totally remote part of the world, how much more does He care for the landscape of my soul and yours. After being in the fat middle of so much natural extravagance, I am deeply encouraged in this truth: God delivers on His promises - big time.



Get up! Get dressed! Get out! - 04-22-2008
I think I have a new motto - it's there in the title of this entry. I historically have an issue with getting stuff done in a timely manner. Even when I was a kid, I have clear memories of my mom having to practically light a fire under my elementary-aged posterior to get ready to walk out the door on time in the morning. And that was before make-up and curling irons entered my life! Unfortunately, that tendency of slow-moving has followed me to this very moment. Procrastination and weak discipline have plagued me. I feel married to certain phrases: "Man! I MEANT to do that - I just forgot!" or "I know - I need to get on that." The "that" seems to be attached to certain tasks that follow me around like evil little shadows, reminding me of my inability to follow through. But I'm also learning that I'm created for more than I ever imagined I could be. My Maker doesn't see me as a putter-offer who'll never get anything done - never get that scrapbook done, never research the family tree, never lose those last few pounds, never get to writing that book...He knows that what He has made is good and made for good works. So now I try not to worry too much about whether I get the WHOLE house vacuumed today or cook a new recipe every night this week (or cook AT ALL this week). I just want to get up (I've always loved sleep - did you know there's a Proverb in our Bible that actually says "Do not love sleep"? Oops), get dressed ( sometimes just some clothes and baseball cap will do), and get out and enjoy the John 10:10 life that's been promised to me. And maybe I'll get a few things checked off my to-do list while I'm at it...



A tribute to February - 02-17-2008
February is an eventful month in my family. First, there's the major hype and interminable build-up to Valentine's Day - arguably the most contraversial and hated holiday among couples and singles alike. So much pressure! "If I don't get my sweetheart diamond earrings, does that mean I don't really love her?" "If he really means that much to me, I should KNOW the perfect gift to get for under $5!" As my wise husband said this year, it's really just another day. And we ought to be loving each other as much on AUGUST 14th, and every other 14th, as on this Hallmark holiday. That's my piece, amen! Now, also in February, and more importantly, both my parents have their birthdays - Mom's on the 6th and Dad's on the 17th. It's always a great opportunity to celebrate someone you love on their own personal day - to focus on him or her, give them as much attention as you can, and give them honor. This year, my father turns 60. Actually, TODAY my father turns 60. Now, 60 is by no means old, but after his health scare a couple of years ago, birthdays mean more than ever. My mom herself is no spring chicken (sorry, Mom) - in YEARS anyway. I only hope that when I'm ____ years old, I look as young and have as much spunk as she does! Mom & Dad - you are my parents, my heritage, and what I aspire to become. I love you! Happy Birthdays!!



SNOW! - 02-13-2008
This morning, the radio weather guy said "maybe a flurry or two" and by the time I got a mile from the house, I couldn't see the stripes on the road. There's a difference between "flurry" and REAL snow. And today, we're having REAL snow! It's also "Humpday" (Wednesday, for those of you needing interpretation). And the day before Valentine's Day. And the day that Project Runway whittles its designers down to the last three. Which leads me to my current inane pleasures - Project Runway (I've been pooh-poohing it since it first came on the air and now that I've watched it, of course, I like it); Lost - the show that creates more questions by the week, the most pressing of which is "how are they going to wrap this up satisfactorily in the 3 years they have left"; and finally, online gaming. I don't play the weird ones - I like to stick to games like Canasta and online Crosswords. I'm a lightweight, I know, but I justify the time I spend playing by contending that it keeps my brain sharp. I'm sure there's some truth in that. And the closer I get to 40, I find I care more about a sharp mind, a wrinkle-free face, and non-grey hair. I do have good news, though: John and I are back on Weight Watchers - with a vengeance. We have our annual anniversary vacation looming in the near future and bathing suits always motivate, regardless of gender! We have both lost weight in these first two weeks, which is awesome, but more than that, we FEEL so much better, mentally as well as physically. When you know what to do and you actually DO it, as opposed to NOT doing it, that's a good thing. And God is pleased. So stop putting off whatever it is today that you know you're supposed to be doing. Chances are, it won't be as bad as you anticipate, and you'll feel great knowing you made a grown-up choice! Blessings...



Annie D. Jennings 1913 - 2008 - 01-27-2008
John and his sisters and cousins called her Grandmommy; just about everyone else called her Granddody. She was a witty, intelligent, compassionate, generous, fun-loving matriarch. She loved Bear Bryant and the Crimson Tide, the sound of her family making music, watching her great-grandchildren play, the Atlanta Braves, reading good books, and watching the sunset with an evening glass of white wine. The people of Piedmont, AL, adored her - and have her in part to thank for the preservation of the town's history. She was the slowest joke-teller I've ever known! But the jokes were always funny and she always laughed. And so did we. She celebrated life. She celebrated people. We celebrate her. She left us tonight just before 9 o'clock. We'll miss your smile, Granddody.



Have a GREAT OH - 8! - 01-08-2008
Hey, everyone! Just wanted to stop in quickly along the road to wish you a very Happy New Year and offer hope that this year will be the best you've had! I'm anticipating a couple of fun dates this month - one in Florida (can't get enough of that place) and one that takes me back to the site of my college days! I haven't been to Waco in 10 years at least so I'm very excited to see it all again! Please stay tuned to the website for new and cool stuff coming up this year - and thanks to all of you who've been regular visitors! Blessings...



Merry and bright! - 12-11-2007
Well, it's Christmastime...again. When you're young, they always say time will go faster when you're older. Sometimes I hate how true that is. But I do love this time of year so it's okay with me if it hurries 'round again every 12 months. We've had a jolly holiday already. I'd like to brag a moment and say that ALL my wrapping is done. Thank you. That's never happened before. I don't know what to do with myself. Well, actually, in all honesty, I haven't bought my husband's gift yet. If anybody has a great idea, I'm open to suggestions. Just remember I'm on a budget! Speaking of gifts, we've had the honor of sharing with a few different charitable causes this Christmas. This is not the only time of the year that God's people are responsible for giving, but it's a good time to start if you haven't, or to be extra generous if you have. A seemingly small offering really can make a huge difference in someone's holiday to the point that he or she might actually see the Christ of Christmas. I hate to use such a tired cliche - but it seems to fit here. So get out there and share the love! Travel safe, everyone, and love boldly and gently on your families - even (or especially) the ones that you don't like! Merry Christmas!



Springfield surprise! - 10-10-2007
Hey, all! Today we welcome my 2nd favorite month of the year. My favorite month is, of course, Nov-cember (November and December are really one glorious time of year). We just returned from a weekend in Springfield, MO, leading worship at the Stepping Out Women's Conference at 2nd Baptist Church in Springfield. What an amazing time it was! I was invited there because of my acquaintance with an incredible woman - who has now been bumped up from "acquaintance" to "friend" - Jennifer Rothschild. If you've not heard about Jennifer, I would invite you to click on her name and get acquainted with her yourself. She's quite remarkable. The whole event was wonderful (a shout-out here to everyone who put it together but mostly to Alisa Martin, who really made it all happen) but the biggest surprise came Sunday morning when a pair of familiar faces from the past came into view. I had not seen Mr. and Mrs. Pruitt surely since college (I know I look youthy - wink - but that was really a long time ago). This sweet couple was at my home church in Houston for several years and not only had a son who was hilarious and a great friend of mine, but they also gave me my first-ever JOB! These moments may be my favorite part of being on the road - when someone I've not thought about for years and would never expect to see - just shows up out of nowhere! It was wonderful, though I wish I'd had more time to visit with them (Mr. & Mrs. P - if you're reading this, please drop me a line and also tell Todd I said hi). All of this to say, you never know what God is going to surprise you with today, and it may not be as obvious as seeing old friends, so make sure your eyes are all the way open. Ok, one last thing - how are we doing on the reading thing? I've now finished another book. Check my Shelfari page to see which one it was. Blessings to you all and Happy October!



Football season! - 09-02-2007
I know some of you have had more rain this summer than you care to think about, but here in Nashville, it's been a very dry season. So we were thrilled to see the drops falling a few days ago. Lightning and thunder and MUD - oh MY!! It's been so blooming hot here that fall has seemed like a distant fantasy - until yesterday. The college football season blew in like a fresh breeze and none too soon. And speaking of fantasy, I'm taking my first-ever foray into the the world of Fantasy Football this year. I am the only woman in a league of 10, the "commissioner" of which is my dear husband. Could be an interesting NFL season in our house. haha By the way, guess who had the first pick in our "draft" - John. Guess who had the LAST pick - me. So much for special treatment. I also wanted to share a new website for my reader friends out there. Patsy Clairmont - an avid reader herself, not to mention a great writer - told me about it and I love it. www.shelfari.com (get it? SHELfari - SAfari - a reading adventure!) It's like myspace for book nerds. Check it out and see if doesn't inspire you to pick up a book this year. With the recent poll results that showed that the average American did not read a single book last year, this could be very timely information. Remember - reading is fun! By the way, the last book I finished was The Wind in the Willows (the book that gave us Mr. Toad). Ok - your turn. Until next time...blessings.



Nothing much...what's new with you? - 08-07-2007
That’s pretty much where I am these days. I have a lot more free time this year than in the last few, which is mostly good, but for me, it actually presents a bit of a challenge. I tend to be…a little bit…sort of…well, I’ll just say it…lazy. When I have free time - laundry and coming up with a dinner plan aside - I have to get creative in thinking of ways to make the best use of it (I really admire you type-A folks). I’m certainly spending a lot of time – and I mean a LOT of time - at the dog park. Good for Joey and for me, as it gets this indoor girl outside. I did get to do something new and cool last week – I got my first invite to a Nashville writers’ night. It was nerve-wracking but it turned out great and it’s always good for me to do something well outside my comfort zone. It also encouraged (and challenged) me to get back to the writing board – a daunting prospect but I’m going to give it a whirl. John is finishing up his summer travels and we’re really enjoying our time at home together, trying to strike the delicate balance between marriage, family, friends, work, fun, and responsibility – and dogs and cats, living together – MASS HYSTERIA! (My movie buff brothers and sisters will get that one.) On a slightly more recreational note, I was among the throngs of humanity gulping down the last of the Harry Potter series last week (please don’t email me) and I must say, I was moved, challenged, and inspired. I’ll read the whole series again at some point but for now, I’m chewing on this quote from the first book: “Harry felt a great leap of excitement. He didn’t know what he was going to – but it had to be better than what he was leaving behind.” Paul called it “pressing on”. I want to learn to live my life, especially knowing the Maker of all things, with this kind of hopeful anticipation of what’s next, even when – no, especially when – I have no idea what it is, because if God is taking me somewhere else, it’s got to be better than where I am right now. Blessings to you, wherever you’re headed today.



June is busting out... - 06-05-2007
All over! As usual, despite the fact that we've barely stopped moving for the last couple of months, there doesn't seem to be anything to report. Doesn't SEEM to be, anyway. We're just continuing to move, which is cool. We ministered at a church in Conroe, TX, this past weekend, just outside of Houston. Always great to have a chance to go home. The church was warm and welcoming and being with them gave me joy at the privilege of doing what I get to do on any kind of regular basis. Speaking of which, I made my Opry debut in April! Well, not really. I was just singing background vocals for the one and only Brenda Lee. For you younger folks, she's the one who immortalized Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree back in the day. I have to admit, it was quite a thrill to stand on the stage where so many legendary performers have stood - even standing in the background. Plus I got to be on TV - so there's that dream realized. Also, John and I just celebrated our 4th wedding anniversary! We started a tradition of traveling for the occasion and this year we celebrated at sea! That was more thrilling than the Opry by far! Other updates include: some dates added to the tour schedule, talks of a new record (pray for us!), and our on-going concern that we were out of our minds the day we decided that getting a dog was a good idea! We really love Joey but man...real human kids could not be any more challenging than this! haha Anyway, thanks for visiting! And please let us hear from you! Blessings...



PUPPY! - 04-20-2007
Did that get your attention? It's been a while since my last journal update. I admit that part of the reason for that is - well, I just haven't done it. But the more fun reason is that my time has been largely devoted to Joey - our new family addition. We went to Petco one Saturday for a litter box for Daphne and came out with - a puppy. What? Yeah. And no, they weren't giving them away like a gift with purchase or anything like that. I'm convinced that God gave puppies and kittens this certain face - you know the face I'm talking about - sad, pathetic, adorable - I'm convinced God gave them that face so they'd never go hungry. Who can look at that face and not want to love it and feed it and care for it for life?? Our decision to bring Joey home that day made no logical sense. We already have a cat (by the way, she does NOT care for our choice of sibling for her). We have a relatively small back yard, and, oh yeah, we travel ALL THE TIME! We'd had Joey for a total of 6 days before we had to board him. It made no sense to adopt that dog, but we did it anyway. Sound familiar? Sometimes we end up regretting those seemingly impulsive decisions. But a lot of times, don't we end up pleasantly surprised? If John and I had made the logical choice that Saturday, we would be missing out on the joy of cuddling Joey in our laps and watching him run and frolic outside. All of that, of course, comes after the long walks, feeding and cleaning up after him, and trying to keep Daphne from killing him, but it's worth it. Regret? I don't see anything in scripture that supports it, even for the choices we wish we hadn't made. So live it up! Go buy a dog! Go to Disney World! Tell her you love her! Get a new job! Or something... You might be surprised at what you find in doing the illogical. Matthew 4:20, 22



Cold & flu season - 02-05-2007
Germs! WHAT'S the deal with THESE things? Everyone I know has either been sick this month or is sick right now or has a sick child and/or spouse. I, myself, have been sick twice in the last month, this last time for 2 weeks and counting. January felt like it lasted about a year. Since Christmas, we've seen Houston, Birmingham, Houston again, Orlando, Memphis, Atlanta...Memphis again...and I think that's it. Except John's back in Houston now. All these events have coincided with some happenings at work for both John and me - happenings that change the look of the year ahead and have us wondering, "What next?" We're very thankful for the verse that God made the foundation of our life together that has now become the foundation of our work - it is the timing of things that points to the sovreignty of God. He knows everything and, although people do it all the time, God makes no mistakes. It may be years before we see how it all works out but we WILL see it. I guess one of the benefits of being down with sickness is all the extra downtime to sit and think on these kinds of things. So if you're reading this while parked in bed with a fever, in between playing games on your laptop and watching Friends reruns, remember that all your days were numbered and all your steps have been ordered by a very good God. Even on the days that seem like a total waste!



Merry New Year! - 12-31-2006
Another new year with a cold. I feel like I've been here before. At any rate, we hope you have a wonderful, safe, and happy new year. And that puts this year in the books! Blessings to you all!



That time again? - 12-05-2006
I had to do a double-take when I saw that my last entry was in SEPTEMBER! It must be the holidays or something. These days, every time someone asks me how I'm doing, I simply say - busy. Since the last journal entry, we've seen the end of the Women of Faith year, Thanksgiving, and our annual DisneyWorld vacay. Today is my first day off in literally weeks. But I get to spend it preparing for my first Christmas concert (which is this weekend in New Mexico) - I'm excited about that. I know everyone says this, but this truly is my favorite time of year. It wasn't, though, for a while. There were several years that I found myself disappointed on a regular basis that those around me (namely, my family) didn't do all the things I expected of them to make the season merry and bright, like it used to be. I can totally relate to Chevy Chase's character in that most classic of all Christmas classics, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. Then I realized, the one who makes this holiday authentically merry and bright never changes - He is constant. And if I wanted all the warm fuzzies of Christmas Past, I could make them for myself. So I did. And I still do - I make the cocoa and pour it in mugs painted with pine trees and reindeer, I fill our tree with more ornaments than we can count, I keep the Christmas movies and music rolling - all of it. Last night, John thanked me for making our house so beautiful for the holidays. It was the most wonderful compliment he could give me because it means that some of my joy in this season has spilled over on someone else. So look around you. If all is not merry and bright, make it so. The Prince of Peace will assist if you ask Him to. God bless you - He is Emmanuel. Merry Christmas.



New Journal Entry - 09-25-2006
Exciting title, huh? I really broke new creative ground with that one. It's almost the end of September and I'm overdue for a journal entry, so I'm writing one, and I don't feel particularly inspired. But that's the way it is sometimes. Everything is business as usual, nothing's different, and life is just rockin' along like normal. But the truth is that change is constant. Believers in God know that He is always at work and nothing ever really stays the same. Like, for example, I'm 15 lbs. lighter than the last time I wrote a journal entry. If you've read that entry you know that I couldn't make that change without the power of God. Another thing - I finally had a weekend off from Women of Faith, and what did we do? We drove to Atlanta in a rented minivan and shopped at IKEA for 3 days. Yep, we really did. But you should see our new stuff. Our upstairs is looking less like a college apartment! No offense to college students, but we have a mortgage - we should have furniture to go with it. I've also made a couple of new friends in the last few weeks, which is a big deal for a non-social, only child who likes to hole up in the house with the cat - I mean, husband. God is expanding my horizons. Psalm 118:5 says when I cried out to the Lord in my distress and fear, He answered me by - hiding me away in a small place? No - He set me in a LARGE place! In other words, He expanded my horizons. So I guess I am feeling inspired today, which proves that God can and will meet you anywhere, any time - even when you're still in your bed in your pajamas.



Buffet my body? - 08-07-2006
Does that mean like the buffet at Shoney's? Or my personal favorite - Cancun Mexican restaurant? All you can eat, only $6.99! I doubt it. I know the Bible talks a lot about discipline (I know because I searched the word at Bible.com). I also know the truth of Hebrews 12:11 - "no discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful." That truth was quite deeply felt in my buffeted (pronounced "buh-FAYED", in this case) body last week during (and after) a strenuous Tae-Bo workout. Painful? Oh yeah. But as a not-so-famous fitness instructor once said, "You grew it - you must lift it!" I have definitely "grown" some new stuff. What's interesting to me is that I've not been doing anything different in my life that would cause such miraculous weight gain, except get older. That just shows me that we have to keep going somewhere in our lives, to continue to be proactive about pursuing God and the knowledge of Him. If we sow dormantly, we will reap dormantly. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, and the unpleasant effects of that excruciating workout lasted almost a week before my abs went normal again. BUT, "later on...discipline produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." I have come late to the discipline party, but I believe God coined the phrase "better late than never." (I'm sure there's a scripture to support that.) And it's hard - no doubt. Losing a few pounds and fitting into a smaller size probably won't change the world. But through the process, what I will learn about the power of God in all areas of my life will have an eternal impact on me. And what if God chose to use THAT to change the world?



Independence! - 07-04-2006
What a great day! Despite the fact that it's always exceedingly HOT - HOTHOTHOT - the 4th of July has always meant fun for me. This year John and I are in Houston (speaking of HOT) with my mom and dad, who is recovering amazingly well - praise God! But whether we spend this holiday with family or friends, the 4th means food that we don't usually eat (hot dogs, BBQ) and games that we play all the time, like Liverpool Rummy (you can email me for "official" rules). But this year, there's a new game that our friends, Sam & Kristi, have gotten us hooked on - Cards & Marbles. Holy Moly! Like I needed one more way to waste time in my life! The only problem is that it's not available in any stores, at least none that I can find. So if you know how I can get my hands on one SOON, please let me know! Until then, have a safe and happy 4th of July, remembering that freedom always comes at a high price, which none of us can really afford to pay, and the ultimate freedom is only found in a love relationship with Jesus Christ! John 8:36



Turned out to be a tough month - 06-11-2006
I just read my last entry and it sounded so hopeful, like May was going to be such a great month. And a lot of it was. I had just come from my first concert date in Florida (Seaside - beautiful) when I got the call that my dad had a heart attack. Since then, there has been another concert date in Florida, a trip to Houston for my Dad's quadruple bypass, an anniversary trip to Aruba with John, and 2 Women of Faith events. Plus several more calls to and from home - some to report good news and some to report another setback. It's amazing to me what all has transpired over the course of less than a month. But I'm also amazed at God's presence - not just that He's with us but how He shows us that He's with us - always in ways we can understand, leaving no doubt as to His care for us. It's a difficult time for our little family - there's just the 3 of us (4 counting John - yes, that makes me an only child). But every day there's something to be thankful for and something to bring joy. Joy, as I'm learning at Women of Faith this year, goes far beyond happiness and certainly doesn't depend on pleasant circumstances. Watching my parents go through this experience together, even from such a distance, just serves to remind me that I still have a lot to learn from them.



The continuing saga... - 05-05-2006
Our grass is as high as corn in Kansas! Why? Now our lawn mower won't start. I'm sure it's some simple reason, like it needs gas or something. Just kidding - even I know how to put gas in a lawn mower. They take kerosene, right? So we had to call a lawn guy to come cut the grass. Guess we'll have to wait on posting pictures. TOMORROW is my dear husband's birthday! John will be 32! I'm still 4 years older than him, and he's 13 inches taller than me, for whatever that's worth! This is an exciting month for us. I have the whole month off from Women of Faith, but I'm singing 2 concerts this month, both in Florida (Destin and Orlando - you know what that means!). Then John and I celebrate 3 blissful years of marriage in the sunny Caribbean! We MAY send postcards - but probably not. Speaking of marriage, let me recommend a couple of good reads on the subject. The first is Gary Chapman's The Five Love Languages. I may be the last person left on the planet to read this book, but it's great practical help, whether your marriage is strong and healthy or you're struggling. The second is The Purse Driven Life by Anita Renfroe. This is a book on marriage? Well, actually it's a book on life, written by a married woman. It's a quick read and absolutely hilarious. Guys, you should enjoy it as well as the girls! I've been a little convicted lately about how many books I OWN vs. how many of those books I've actually READ. You might be able to relate. So let's all start reading more, shall we? Until next time...



What?? April already?? - 04-09-2006
Good grief! Where have I been? It's tax season and my last journal entry was nearly 3 months ago! Rest assured - that's not because nothing's been going on! We've done 3 Women of Faith conferences since February and they have been awesome already. This is going to be a great year for us! I just got back from a trip to Houston. WOF had a conference there, then I sang at Williams Trace Baptist Church down in Sugar Land this morning. It was an amazing time. Once again, I was terrified before going out there. Then - whaddayaknow - God moved. He never lets me look stupid - for some reason, that continues to amaze me. On a less serious note, it's planting season here in Nashville! And for relatively new homeowners like us, that can be an interesting time. Last week, I assembled a gas-powered weedeater - which I then discovered I am not strong enough to start. Nice. But I did manage to cut our entire lawn BY MYSELF. (That last part was for my dad, who upon reading this news is probably going to need the paddles.) Anyway, maybe soon, we'll be able to post some nice spring photos of our cheerful lawn, if we can ever figure out how to post photos at all! We head back to Houston for Easter, then on to San Diego for a week. Then I head out to Spokane for the next WOF conference. It's a whirlwind of a life, but like I keep saying, I'd rather be moving than be bored! Peace out...



January is over! - 01-26-2006
Three concerts and two church services are behind me. It was interesting, terrifying, and a whole lot of fun. I don't know exactly why I was so scared to go out and do this thing I've been dreaming about doing for years, except that it's a huge responsibility. To step onto a platform and speak about God is a humbling task. But the good and glorious thing is that He of whom we speak is infinitely faithful and responsive to our prayers for help. He really does use the weak and foolish things (that’s me) to minister to, and sometimes even confound, the wise. Now, I don't know if any wise people have been confounded around me in these last weeks, but I know that God has been present. I know because He's been present with me, and I know because people have been kind enough to tell me that while I was singing, He was present with them. That is a gift without price or value. Some dates on the road have been added to our calendar. We seem to be headed to Florida several times, which suits us Disney aficionados just fine. I was able to present a concert in my old home church in Houston a couple of weeks ago - what a blessing! And I am equally excited to be headed out to new places. My most recent prayer is, "Lord, help me to embrace the path, whatever it is, that You are making straight before me." I have no idea where He will take us this year, or next. None of us does. But I rest in this - the God of all the ages is in love with my soul! That's enough to keep me walking.



Happy New Year! - 12-29-2005
Well, the holidays are about over and we hit the ground running in just a couple of days! It's all starting to feel quite overwhelming! But the fact remains that what God calls us to He will also equip us for. So I'll just have to tell that to these butterflies in my stomach! My first official concert date is January 3, in Orlando, Florida, which means that by the time most of you read this, it will already have happened! We are very pleased with the second album, Redeemed. It is finished and will be ready for the January 2nd release! We were able to share it with family over Christmas and it was a hit! Many of the songs have been very personal to write and to finally get to play them for other ears was an incredible experience. I'll be back to report on these first concerts. Until then, have a safe, blessed, and wonder-filled new year!



Inaugural Journal Entry - 11-04-2005
This is the inaugural entry on my inaugural website, celebrating my inaugural solo record release! God may be full of second chances, but He is equally full of amazing FIRSTS! His timing is always perfect and He is graciously proving that in my life. In the weeks between now and Christmas, I will release not one, but TWO records. That's almost unbelievable to me! Many of you have asked over the years, "When is Shelley going to have her own record?" The answer has always been, "When it's time!" I'm so happy the time is now! I look forward to sharing more in the days to come - more about how God continues to amaze and bless us! For now, keep an eye on the website for news and updates. Thanks!