Tag Archives: God

June 18, 2013 · 4:09 pm

Seeking His FACE…

My second devotional reading this morning was even more on target than my first. God truly know where we are and what we need. Mom’s next new mantra is “patient endurance.” Being a go-getter it is hard for her to slow down. She will and can do it.

Psalm 105.4 Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.

Isaiah 40.31 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.

Lamentations 3.24-26 I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.

These days we seldom have to wait patiently for an answer or request. Today, we expect everything at lightning speed and assume tomorrow’s response will probably arrive even faster!

So it’s easy to start expecting God to work this way; that we’ll pray in the morning and have an answer by lunch. We think God isn’t listening because it’s taking so long.

God wants us to wait with patient endurance for answers and then, watch “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful” (Colossians 4:2 NIV). Waiting on God is how we were designed so that we would be always aware of Him at every moment.

What are you waiting for? God’s timing coupled with our patience renews our strength, increases trust (faith), ensures obedience, and leads us to peace. Can you be patient with God?

Lord I seek you today! I pray for strength on this journey. You have been so very good to our family. You have taken mom to heights we didn’t expect to see so soon. You have had your hand of protection on her this whole time. You knew in advance all of this would be happening. You knew you would be the one we lean on. You knew we would be angry, frustrated, stressed, confused, sad, excited, happy and the list goes on. You also knew we knew you were our protector and our comforter. You want us to reach out to you and ask for help. So here I am seeking your face!! And of course you are answering daily with many Godincidences…

Your face has shown up so much from the beginning! For dad it was the EMT workers who first responded to the 911 call. Your face showed up when you had her airlifted to the best of the best – even though her PA is a Mizzou fan. Your face showed up when the doctors joked about mom’s skull being in the cafeteria freezer. Your face showed up on all of the faces of the ICU nurses. They cared for her like she was their own mom. Your face showed up on a cleaning lady at the hospital who went out of her way to help us and then came back to get a piece of mail I needed mailed. You face showed up when the physical therapist worked with mom and discussed how awesome it would be for God to trust us enough to go through trials like Job. Your face showed up on the Debbie, the patient care advocate that assured us mom was in the right place after a scary start to a regular room. (She was off-balance going to the bathroom and very unsteady! Her CNA said her paperwork stated she didn’t need assistance. NOT!) Your face showed up on Sara, the other patient in mom’s room. We wanted a private room but the Lord knew we would need Sara. I decided to go to the hotel to get rest. It was a very conflicted decision! During the night, Mom couldn’t find the call button and tried to get out of bed on her own. Sara called the nurses. Mom was okay but Miss Independent wanted to do it herself. She gained herself a new roommate after that-me. Your face showed up in the caring nurses and CNAs on the floor. They would check on her even if they weren’t assigned to her again. Your face showed up in the beautiful flowers she has received. And who gets flowers from a car dealership, a pharmacy and an auto part company? My mom! She is so loved! Your face has shown up through the numerous emails, phone calls and Facebook posts. Your face has shown up with the visitors she has received. She is receiving all of the love she has so generously given out all these years!!!

She is amazing. She is still caring about others around her – cleaning the sink when she is finished brushing her teeth. Sharing the TV with Sara and worried that she is the one controlling it. Little things like this show me how blessed we have been because she is doing what Eddie Lou Taylor does naturally! It is still there. Praise the Lord!

Thanks for joining us on this journey! My blog will be my letter to the world about my mom…about my dad…about the AMAZING FAMILY the Lord has blessed me with. We are running this marathon together…good thing we are all active. Until next time!

ALSO – We are now officially on the rehabilitation floor. Woo hoo! Let the work begin!! Thanks for your prayers…we feel them.

A marathon of a different type…Taylor Strong!

The Boston Marathon was two months ago today! (I started this on June 15, 2013. Hospital life is much busier than I expected.) Wow, how time flies. As we live life, we have no idea how one event in your life will prepare you for another. How that event will be similar in so many ways to another event you are unaware will happen.

God knew on April 15, 2013 as I ran the Boston Marathon that on June 12, 2013 I would start running a different kind of marathon. He knew my dad would be calling me early in the morning with news that would be life-changing as were the Boston bombings. God knew I would need endurance of a different kind to deal with this marathon. He knew I would draw on my marathon training to sustain while on this new journey.

During that phone call, Dad told me mom had either had a stroke or a brain aneurysm. She awakened at 2:00 am with a headache and throwing up. She tried to go into the living room to rest so she wouldn’t bother daddy. She stumbled and dad heard her. He rushed to her and noticed how unsteady she was and tried to help her. She continued to be unsteady and daddy realized he needed help. He called 911. The EMTs were there quickly and rushed her to Mercy Hospital in Rogers, Arkansas. Upon her arrival they knew she needed specialized help. She was airlifted to Mercy St. John’s Trauma Center in Springfield, Missouri and had aggressive brain surgery. It turns out she had a subdural hematoma, which is a collection of blood outside the brain.

Mom had a section of the size of an adult hand cut out of her skull and the bleed was stopped. To ensure the swelling continues to go down, mom will be without this bone flap for a month or so. They will keeping her bone flap in the freezer. The doctor’s physician’s assistant told us it would be in the cafeteria. It was good to have a bit of humor from the docs. Once the healing process is far enough along they will replace the bone flap. Due to the fact mom will have a part of her head missing, she has to wear a beautiful blue helmet. :) She is thrilled! We will add bling to it soon. She has decided she wants Danica Patrick’s race number because she has become so speedy. This helmet will keep her safe.

This blog was started on a day mom was moving slowly and unbalanced. A day she was mumbling and confused. A day we were unsure how quickly her recovery would go. I can JOYFULLY say that on this day as I write…She is walking with assistance but without a walker. She is mentally SHARP. She is speeding along in her recovery. The occupational therapist and physical therapist that worked with her this weekend were both SHOCKED by the gains she made in 12 hours. She was a different person Day #2.

We were told mom would probably be ready for in-patient rehabilitation by Wednesday. Well, our over-achieving mom is ready TODAY – Monday. She met with the rehabilitation doctor today and she is ready to go. We are now just waiting on a room to open. Once there she will receive intensive therapy 3 hours a day, 5 days a week. Then HOME! I will be in Missouri until mom is released to go home to Arkansas. Then I will spend my summer in Arkansas with mom and dad. We are so blessed that I have a teaching job and can be here to help! Once again, the Lord’s provision.

We are so VERY, VERY thankful for all the blessings God is giving to us minute by minute!!! God has been so very good. Prayers are going up from Arkansas, Indiana, Tennessee, California, Texas, New York, Florida, Oklahoma, England, France and I am sure many more places I am unaware of. If you read this and you are from a different location, comment below so we know. :)

The Lord allowed us to start seeing blessings from the get-go. He enabled the whole family to gather to support mom. Rob and Lisa were able to come to Missouri as well as Rob’s wife, Mari and their daughter, Aspen. Lisa’s daughter Lane made the trip with her. The other family members were with us in spirit and through prayers. Aspen is four years old and kept us entertained dancing, coloring and singing GOING ON A BEAR HUNT. Aspen and Lane brought a huge smile to mom’s face when she saw her grandchildren. Taylor, Lane’s sister, sent well wishes to mom via video from her new 3 month old baby boy. He made us all smile with his sweet cooing. Blessings of the family we have can not be measured…we have an amazing family!

Mom was surrounded physically with her loving family. But we also know she was surrounded by love through prayers from so many others. We have seen the many prayers answered. Dad has been overwhelmed by the outpouring love from all over. I told him I totally understand because I had that feeling after Boston. It is humbling to be on this side of a near tragedy. Once again I am learning life is so very precious. Life is short. Relationships are KEY!

We have a new mantra – Taylor Strong! Mom is a pillar of strength. She is a very strong woman. She has had so many emails describing her as that and as a fighter!!! She is. She will run the race set before her and she will cross the finish line set before her.

We have experienced many Godincidences during this hospital stay. I will blog about them next…stay tuned!

Praising the Lord and still running blessed even though it is a marathon of a different type for Him – Trish

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Tagged as Arkansas, Boston, boston marathon, endurance, God, Hebrews 12.1, marathon, New York City, Taylor

April 16, 2013 · 10:00 pm

The day after….

Today is a new day. Today is the day the Lord has made so let’s rejoice. I am trying. I really am. I know our God is in control, I do. But I am struggling right now. I know I am to have faith. It is my job to trust…not understand. I know all that…and it does bring me comfort. BUT, I am struggling.

A roller coaster of emotions have hit me today. The events of yesterday are settling in. As we left our hotel today we were met with armed guards. The street in front of the hotel was blocked. The swat team and numerous police officers were at the hotel across the street. Unsettling is the best word to describe it…eery.

These sights are imprinted in my mind. I know they are nothing compared to the sights others saw yesterday. Many of Team Hoyt’s family members were in the stands across from one of the explosions. One said he has replayed it all in his mind over and over again! I can’t imagine…the replay of smoke in mine is bad enough.

Team Hoyt came out physically okay. Emotionally scarred and changed…forever I am sure. It drew us closer to our families and closer to each other as a Team Hoyt family! We were thankful to share hugs! We were thankful to receive emails from those we were unable to see and touch. Dick and Rick were stopped on the course when they cancelled the race. They made it back to their home without too many delays. Thankfully, they are well! The Lord truly watched over our team and helped us through this horrific day.

God is showing me He is in control. Tragedy causes people to search for reasons why…to search for a sense of hope. We may never know why but God is providing hope. He is in control. Romans 8.28 – For we know that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to his purpose.

A friend sent me a devotion today. It was talking about being thankful in all circumstances. My brother sent me 1 Thessalonians 5.18 – here is 1 Thessalonians 5. 16-18….16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. It is so hard to be thankful for the tragedy that unfolded on Marathon Monday but in the devotion it stated again, we can’t see the big picture. He can.

After reading the different accounts in the newspaper it makes me really, really thankful for our safety and God’s provision. I have said this already but will continue. My heart is broken for the families of those who lost their lives. One was an eight year old boy who had just hugged his dad before he crossed the finish line. He ran back to be with his mom when the bomb exploded. He was killed and his mom and sister were both injured. The father was headed down the corral to get his medal. Relieved to be done I am sure. Thankful to have a Gatorade and a Power Bar to refuel. Then as I did, heard the blast and I am sure turned around to horror. My story had a better ending. His did not!

Sadness and tears consume me as I think about this…I know how panicked I felt trying to find Mike. I know the fear that overtook me. Prayers were being lifted but I was in shock and my instincts of go and find Mike kicked in. This father did the same. I can only wrap prayer around this family. I don’t know their names, but God does. God also has this family and the others in His hand.

We are now in flight on the way home. It still seems surreal. On one of the newscasts being broadcast in the airport a reporter said this is like 911 you will always remember where you were and when you heard. I sat back and thought about this…I was there in person. I saw the smoke. People were killed and injured just 2 blocks away from me. The reality of this has not really hit me yet. I know it will. On this roller coaster I go from reality to really? What a place to be!

The outpouring of love Mike and felt have humbled us beyond belief. Due to the circumstances we were without cell phone services for a while. They were taking precautionary measures just in case cell phones were being used to detonate the bombs. It was a scary time. We wanted to get in touch with our loved ones – friends and family all around the world. Please know that if I could give each of you a huge hug – I would. That is what I needed and wanted….Mike was there for me. { } Consider this your virtual hug!

As we have traveled God is showing His presence. Before we took off in Boston I had to use the restroom. I walked in and a girl was on the phone crying. She had her Boston Marathon shirt on so I knew she had run the race. When she was finished I said “I know I don’t know you, but can I give you a hug?” We embraced and then she told me her story. She was right there when it happened. She was thanking the Lord for her safety. We stood and talked for a while and I made a new friend. Liz-I am praying for you! I feel blessed that the Lord allowed our paths to cross. It was a Godincidence like so many other happenings this weekend. She talked about how she felt God was working. How He was drawing us back to our families. We talked about God’s sovereignty. He is in control.

After landing in Charlotte we were walking to connecting gate. A complete stranger reached out and put her hand on Mike’s arm and said, “I am really glad to see you two!” We thanked her as she walked on. Good is out there….everywhere. We need to live more intentional and show others our love and God’s love daily. This is where the hope comes from in these times of tragedy. That is what we are made of!

Does it make us sad? Yes! Do we hurt? Yes! Do we wish we could erase it? Yes! Questions are raised why? Why would a gracious God allow such tragedy?

I know our Lord is good…I know He is sovereign and He is in control. Searching for answers is part of it…as I searched I found this article BIBLE TRUTHS FOR TRAGIC TIMES on www.cbn.com – The Christian Broadcasting Network written by Laura J. Bagby. It was written after Hurricane Katrina. She has conveyed the message so well. She has referenced the word of our Lord and Savior that brings us comfort. READ BELOW:

5 “The waves of death surrounded me; the floods of destruction swept over me. ⁶ The grave[a] wrapped its ropes around me; death itself stared me in the face. ⁷ But in my distress I cried out to the LORD; yes, I called to my God for help. He heard me from his sanctuary; my cry reached his ears (2 Samuel 22:5-7, NLT).The above Scripture passage, a heartfelt cry of King David written thousands of years ago. The Lord God is close to the brokenhearted, to those crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). He is our refuge in times of trouble (Psalm 59:16).

In the meantime, as the rest of us stay glued to the television set, transfixed at the images of horror that have transpired these last couple of days and waiting to hear from loved ones, we must not allow our hearts to faint to the point that we lose hope and begin to question the goodness of God. We can become overwhelmed when we dwell on tragedy, which is exactly why the Bible tells us to set our minds on things above and not on earthly things (Colossians 3:2).When our hearts are troubled, we must seek the Lord. When we give our anxious hearts to God instead of remaining paralyzed by our fearful thoughts, we gain His peace. The Bible tells us plainly in Philippians 4:6-7:Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (NIV).

John 14:27 also notes the exchange of fear for peace. Jesus states:

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (NKJV).

These are the times to remember just who our God truly is, a God who is there and a God who cares. So let us pause to consider our Great King. Let’s look on heavenly things for a moment to calm our nerves.

Me again: I couldn’t have said it any better. I want to reiterate her words…”Remember who our God truly is, a God who is there and a God who cares. So let us pause to consider our Great King. Let’s look on heavenly things for a moment to calm our nerves.”

I prayed 18 weeks ago, at the beginning of my marathon training, that God’s will be done and He was glorified on race day. Never in a million years did I ever imagine or could I have ever imagined it would or could be happening in this way! God will prevail. We know the ending! Thanking Him for His Hope and love!!!

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Tagged as Boston, boston marathon, God, Jesus, Lord, Team Hoyt

April 7, 2013 · 7:59 pm

I can…ONLY imagine!

We are currently traveling back from a glorious birthday weekend with my side of our wonderful family. The Lord has truly blessed Mike and me with an amazing family on both sides. The Taylor clan and the Newsom clan are collectively the best group of people ever! I am biased but I would venture to say others would say the same. Thank you Lord for surrounding my with people who love me unconditionally and make me a better person!!! (Thanks to my niece Lane we had amazing photos taken of the Taylor side in Indy by Courtney Venable….it was GREAT fun!)

I love these people more than words could EVER describe!!!

Now to the real reason for this post…as we are driving down the interstate we are listening to Christian music. Mike and I both are listening and singing along. (For those of you who have heard both of us sing…you know HE is way better and I need to be listening and not singing. LOL!) I CAN ONLY IMAGINE just played. What a powerful song!!! I will NEVER forget the first time I heard this song!

I CAN ONLY IMAGINE…Mercy Me

I can only imagine
What it will be like
When I walk
By your side

I can only imagine
What my eyes will see
When your face
Is before me
I can only imagine

[Chorus:]
Surrounded by Your glory, what will my heart feel
Will I dance for you Jesus or in awe of you be still
Will I stand in your presence or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah, will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine

I can only imagine
When that day comes
And I find myself
Standing in the Son

I can only imagine
When all I will do
Is forever
Forever worship You
I can only imagine

[Chorus]

I can only imagine [x2]

I can only imagine
When all I will do
Is forever, forever worship you

What is so fitting for God’s timing in letting me hear and remember this is that I heard it first on a long run when I hadn’t been running long. I was doing a long training run around White Rock Lake in Dallas, Texas. I was training for my first marathon. At that time I was overtaken with emotion thinking about how I will respond when I meet our Lord and Savior. I remember praising HIM with every step and being in awe of His saving grace when in NO way I deserved it!!

Never did I dream that some 13 years later I would be approaching my 9th marathon and it would be Boston. I could truly only imagine that then. Now, He has made it reality! As tears fill my eyes now, my emotion is real and raw. God loves us so much He wants to show us things we can only imagine. He wants to help us live for Him in a way that glorifies Him and brings us joy! WOW!

Why me?? Why now??? Age? Wisdom? Faith? Commitment? Failure? Hard work? Hard ache? It is a combination of them all. I can honestly tell you that I do not want to do it any other way!!! He is the way. He is the truth. He is the light! He is LIFE!!!! The ups and downs of life are doable because He is ALWAYS by my side!!! He is a friend of mine!!! (another song playing now!)

The Lord knew 13+ years ago He would be leading on this journey. He knew He would be paving the way for me to run and use running as a huge part of my testimony. He knew I would have heartache and success along the way. He knew I would be running Boston once and now twice. He knew He would be taking a non-athlete to heights only HE could take reach. I am in NO way a natural. He gives me a drive that truly comes from Him. He gives me the desire to finish what I started and finish well!

1 Corinthians 9.24

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way to get the prize.

2 Timothy 4.7

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

As Casting Crowns sings, “You are already there!” He goes before us. He is paving the way from Hopkinton to Boston. He knows what will happen on April 15. He is waiting!

Deuteronomy 31.8

the Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

He knows what April 15, 2013 holds. He knows how He will use it for His glory. My prayer is that I stay true to Him and give it right back to Him every step of the way!!! This brings me comfort and confidence as I prepare to taper this week and physically and mentally prepare for the big day.

Over this next week, my goal is to immerse myself in Him and truly praise him over the 26 easy miles that lead me to HIS 26.2 on April 15. Will you join me? Will you help me pray that He keeps me injury free, that He leads me every step of the way and that He helps me run for Him? God is so good! All things truly work together. Because of HIM I run! Running Blessed!!!

Romans 8.28

And we know that in ALL things God works for the good of those who love him,

who have been called according to HIS purpose.

Cautious Confidence….

Two weeks from today is the big day! Currently it is 2:03pm. At 2:03pm on April 15, I plan to be over Heartbreak Hill and headed down the final stretch to Bolyston Street crossing the 2013 Boston Marathon Finish Line!

As I get closer people want to know how I am feeling. Am I excited? Am I nervous? Yes and YES!

16 weeks ago I started an 18 week training plan called The Hansons Marathon Method.

http://hansonscoachingservices.com/hansons-marathon-method-the-16-miler/

After reading favorable reviews on the method, I thought I would give it a try. There were several attractive components. First, I could order a book and have it in my hands. It would be a manual I could refer to often and as it turns out DAILY! Secondly, this method calls for a 16 mile run and no longer. I love this because it gives me time back. I am not out there running really long on long run days completely exhausted. Thirdly, it emphasizes easy running being EASY and speed being just that – speed and hard. 6 days of running – 2 days hard and 4 easy…I can do that! So my journey on the Hanson Marathon Method began.

How has it gone? The final verdict will be read on April 15 around 2:30pm. We will see if all of my training comes together. This is what my mind has been on the last couple of weeks. This is what crosses my mind when people ask how I am feeling. Will my training come together and will we see the fruit of it? I say YES!

I am better prepared than ever before. I have stayed faithful to the course of training. On days I didn’t want to do it, I did it. On days I couldn’t do it, I did what I could or flipped workouts so I could do it. My times have been spot on and better most days. My easy runs have been easy for the most part…it is hard to pull in the reigns when you are thinking to yourself you should be going faster. I have learned throughout the course of the 16 weeks – easy is good, real good. It makes a difference in your overall state – mental and physical.

Today as I was pondering the next two weeks of preparation – tapering runs, proper nutrition, proper hydration and etc….I decided to pick up my manual and read what the Hanson’s had to say. Here is what I found to help me respond to “How do you feel?” or “Are you ready?”

MENTAL PREPARATION – In my experience, the best way to mentally prepare yourself prior to a marathon is simply to be calm. Getting your heart rate up before you even start running is never a good idea. A good way to find that calm is to approach the race with “cautious confidence.” Step back and spend a moment thinking about your training, reminding yourself that you are fit and ready to race. Training doesn’t lie. Be realistic in pondering the difficulty of the race, but also remind yourself that all your training has prepared you to handle it. In addition, when the going gets tough during the race, you are prepared for it. You knew it wasn’t going to be a cakewalk. By preparing this way, you are able to have positive and motivating thoughts ready and waiting to help you endure.

p. 200 Hansons Marathon Method, written by Luke Humphrey with Keith & Kevin Hanson

Wow!!!! Just what I needed to read! CAUTIOUS CONFIDENCE! I have trained and I have trained well. All of my speed workouts, strength workouts and tempo workouts have been successes. They were all hard and harder in the beginning. But I transitioned from being fearful I couldn’t keep the pace to being confident I could and I would. What a relief!

Now, to finish strong and to finish well.

2 Timothy 4.7

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Hebrews 12.1-2

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, ²looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

My goal marathon day is to run with the Lord’s strength and to finish the race He set before me. My training won’t lie. I am cautiously confident it will ALL come together.

Romans 8.28

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

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March 25, 2013 · 9:59 pm

Runner’s Passport – I am all in! Are you ALL IN?

Three weeks from today is the BIG day! I am all in for Boston. As I think about the phrases – ALL IN and Runner Passport – I think about what that means to me. It means I will be taking part of the big dance on April 15 in Boston – the 2013 Boston Marathon. Wow! How exciting! I know I have done it before…but it is all so new once again. I love it!

It also has me thinking about my salvation. It reminds me of the BIG day – the day I became part of our Lord’s family – June 11, 1978. This is the day I received the most important passport ever – my passport to eternity. At the age of 9 I could say “I am ALL IN!” Now that’s exciting.

The best part about this passport is that anyone can be ALL IN. You don’t have to qualify. You don’t have to train by running 60 miles a week. All you have to do is say “YES, Lord, YES! I believe you are my Lord and Savior and I want you in my heart. I have sinned and I know you died for me and by GRACE you have saved me.” God loves us! He wants us to have the JOY that surpasses any joy we could have on this earth!

1 John 5:11-13

¹¹And this is what God has testified: He has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.¹²Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God’s Son does not have life.¹³I have written this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know you have eternal life.

Boston is exciting for me…a dream that once was thought unattainable…now a reality! But eternal life is even more so…EXCITING doesn’t even touch it! Earlier today I posted this in response to the amount of mileage I am putting in during this point of my training (55-60 miles a week):

Anyone of you could do it…I have NO doubt…it is about a goal and a dream. The author is our Lord and He helps you do things we could only imagine… He is helping me fly. I started with one foot…1 step and 1 mile at a time.

He can help you do anything…He is our Savior. He is the one that can help you be ALL IN! He can give you a passport to eternity…All you have to do is have faith and believe!

Romans 3:23

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Romans 6:23

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

John 1:12

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

Boston training update:

2013 Mileage – 610.67 miles – I will hit 750 on marathon day! Thank you LORD! For His glory!!!

2013 shoes - On 3rd pair of Brooks Adrenaline

2013 Longest run – 16 miles with next one being 26.2 on April 15, 2013

Fundraising: About $200 short of $5000 goal – I know we will get there!

Marathon training plan – Hanson’s Marathon Method – working well! The Lord is helping me rock my training.

Praying that on marathon day it all comes together…but major prayer is that HIS perfect will is done on that day and the remaining 3 weeks of training!

This post is dedicated to my father, Frank Taylor. Today is his 76th birthday. He, along with my mom, showed us what it meant to live a life with Christ. His devotion to the Lord and his life serving others for Christ is one I want to emulate. Thank you dad for introducing me to Christ and helping me understand what it means to be ALL IN with Christ. LYNMW!

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Tagged as Boston, Epistle to the Romans, Eternal life (Christianity), God, Jesu, Jesus Christ, John, Son of God

February 27, 2013 · 9:56 pm

Do you believe I am able to do this? Matthew 9.28b

“According to your faith will it be done to you.” Matthew 9.29b

Tonight our pastor used the following text for his sermon:

2 Kings 4.1-7: The wife of a man from the company of the prophets cried out to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that he revered the Lord. But now his creditor is coming to take my two boys as his slaves.”

²Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?”

“Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.”

³Elisha said, “Go around and ask all your neighbors for empty jars. Don’t ask for just a few.⁴Then go inside and shut the door behind you and your sons. Pour oil into all the jars, and as each is filled, put it to one side.”

⁵She left him and shut the door behind her and her sons. They brought the jars to her and she kept pouring. ⁶When all the jars were full, she said to her son, “Bring me another one.”

But he replied, “There is not a jar left.” Then the oil stopped flowing.

⁷She went and told the man of God, and he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debts. You and your sons can live on what is left.”

He started the sermon by asking me to bring my Bible up front to the podium. This is not normal. I guess he knew I would be a good sport. He asked me what my Bible was worth to me…if I would give it up or sell it. My Bible is priceless to me! So, of course I said no. He then asked me if I would give him $20. I said I don’t have $20. He proceeded to ask me for my Bible. I hesitated at first…but then gave I gave it to him. To my surprise, he opened it and there was a $20 bill inside. His point was that there is a hidden treasure in all of us and that some situations may be more than meets the eye. (Mike placed the money in my Bible while I wasn’t looking.)

His title was “Discovering the Hidden Treasure!” He used the above scripture to show that the widow had a hidden treasure in her home that was sacred and significant. It was a jar with overflowing blessings. She tapped into the blessings and/or hidden treasure with FAITH! She knew she needed a miracle. As Brother Alan said tonight, “miracles begin in the hands of obedient people.” She put her faith in action and believed as Matthew 9.28-29 stated.

As I listened to the message and thought about what is going on in our lives right now, I could not help but think of the Run with Trish 5k for Team Hoyt on Saturday. The widow lady was distraught. She was forsaken. But she was faithful in it all. I am not distraught or forsaken…I am blessed. But, I am at the point of anxiety and worry because I am human. I have been trying to let go and let God have it. With that being said, I keep pulling it back down and trying to do it myself! Tonight is just what I needed to hear. ”Do I believe HE is able to do this?” Yes, I do!

He has prepared a way for Saturday. He knows whether not it will snow. He knows who will come out and run in the cold. He knows HIS glory will be shown because He knows who will be working the race and shining for HIM. He knows we have been obedient to Him and want HIM to be glorified!! We are to have FAITH and have our jars open and ready for an overflowing blessings on March 2nd. I will be bringing my jar and placing it at pavilion #3 on Saturday. Will you join me? :)

If you are local, I hope to see you there! If you are not, we would love your prayers. A race report will come soon!

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Tagged as Bible, Books of Kings, Elisha, God, Gospel of Matthew, Matthew, Team Hoyt

January 14, 2013 · 6:17 pm

Let HIS teaching fall like rain…

Deuteronomy 28:12
The LORD will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none.

Deuteronomy 32:2
Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants.

Today I ran in the rain. The pouring down rain. The wet rain. The cleansing rain. I stomped in water puddles. I watched the water flow down creeks that I didn’t know were there. I listened to the rain as it hit the ground. I listened to the water run in the creeks through the woods. I watched rain drip off my hat like tear drops. It was magical. I felt alive. I was alive. God blessed me with a cleansing rain.

The Lord let His heavens open and the storehouse of His bounty flowed down…He blessed my run with His beauty! My running is my work for Him. He is providing the journey to Boston once again and I have to do the work. Today it was wet but it was eye-opening and sense heightening.

Many people choose not to run in the rain, snow, cold or dark…but in my opinion,for what it’s worth, they are missing out! As long as you have the right gear…rain, reflective…then these runs can be the BEST ever! Your senses are alive in ways they are normally not. You see things you might not normally notice. You hear in a different way.

The Lord teaches on these runs. He allows me to hear Him and see Him in the beauty of his bounty – today it was the rain.

What can you do to step outside your normal routine and see Him and hear Him in a different way? Do it and let His teaching fall on you like RAIN!

RACE REPORT….The Hot Chocolate 15k/5k in Atlanta

This picture was on Facebook today. It is a perfect picture or yesterday’s race in Atlanta. We were Road Warriors yesterday in the hills of Atlanta. (This may be my first and last race in Atlanta…During the race I saw several shirts that read Heat, Hills, Humidity…Welcome to Atlanta! AMEN!

I approached this race as a training run. The schedule called for a long run of 12 miles at a moderate pace – 915. I decided to go with how I felt and add a few miles running others in after my race. The race was a 15k or 9.3 miles. Running others in would help me get my 12. As in fact it did.

How did it go? Really well. Despite the hills, I felt great! I ran well! My Garmin reported 9.45 miles with a 8:20 pace. I am so excited because I can tell my training is paying off. The speed work and the tempo runs are working. As much as I hate them, they are working. The time on my feet during my easy run are bringing JOY to my runs. My new running form is helping me praise HIM as well as keeping me from running with chicken wings. God is showing up every run. He is showing His hand through the beauty around me, with the friends who encourage me, through the family who support me, with the strangers who inquire about Team Hoyt, with the strength He is giving me on every run and with proof the plan is working.

God gives us direction. God leads our steps.

Proverbs 20.24

A man’s steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand his own way?

Let Him lead you today!!!

SAVED THE BEST FOR LAST: One VERY important thing about this race is that it supported the Ronald McDonald House. The Ronald McDonald House Charity is very close to the Newsom family. It has been a home away from home for my brother-in-law, sister-in-law and their children as their oldest son has and is still dealing with Aplastic Anemia. The RMH in Milwaukee, Wisconsin was their safe haven as he went through treatment and is available if and when they have to return. My nephew is still fighting and he is showing all of us how the hills of life can be turned into joy. I think I can safely say, we have learned A LOT from our nephew. He is an amazing young man who loves the Lord and is using his circumstances to make a difference for others! Thanks, Connor for being such a pillar of strength for us. We love you and are praying for you daily!!! You are a warrior! Keep fighting!!!

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Tagged as Aplastic Anemia, Boston, Environment, Garmin, God, Rain, Team Hoyt

December 31, 2012 · 11:33 pm

2012 blessings in photos…

2 Corinthians 3.17-18 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever‑increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

As every year passes I grow more and more aware of God’s plan for me on this earth – to reflect His glory. As I reflect on 2012 I am reminded of the many blessings the Lord has bestowed on me. This blog will be very similar to my Thanksgiving blog, but it will be a 12 month photo journey of 2012. The idea was taken from my niece Lane Lewis who is a VERY talented photographer. You can check her work out here - https://laneybugphotos.wordpress.com. (and thanks to iPhoto…my photos are organized by date…those who know me know that organization is NOT my forte.)

Let the journey of blessings begin…

JANUARY

Boston Entry received!

The road before me in 2012 was the answered prayer of running the Boston Marathon with Team Hoyt. I was living my dream and the Lord was providing the DAY and the way!

Psalm 37.23 If the Lord delights in a man’s way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.

FEBRUARY

Scenic City Half Marathon – My number one fan is always cheering me on NO matter what mess I find myself in. I have been told I don’t sit down for long and I’m ALWAYS into something…no, not me. My blessings continue daily with this God-given man…my husband.

Ezra 10.4 Rise up; this matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take courage and do it.

MARCH

Baby shower for my granddaughter!!!

Run with Trish 5K for Team Hoyt – Huge Success!!

APRIL – Busy Month!!!

My birthday! Yay! 43 and holding…great times!

Job 32.7 - I thought, ‘Age should speak; advanced years should teach wisdom.’

EASTER 2012

Luke 24.2; 6-7…They found the stone rolled away from the tomb… He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ”

Our Easter canoe ride. Fun times!

Highlight – We became grandparents of a beautiful baby girl!!!

Job 21.8 - They see their children established around them, their offspring before their eyes.

BOSTON 2013!!

Hebrews 11.1 1 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

My mailbox…God showing up in a real BIG way…Boston Marathon 2012!

We became in-laws to our daughter-in-love!

Job 41.7 - They are joined fast to one another; they cling together and cannot be parted.

Nashville Marathon – Encouraging some very special people!!

Proverbs 27.17 – As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.

1 Chronicles 29:13 - Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.

MAY

Mike’s Birthday!!! We pulled off a successful surprise!

2 Corinthians 9:15 - Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

The first addition to our donkey family!

Numbers 22:30 - The donkey said to Balaam, “Am I not your own donkey, which you have always ridden, to this day? Have I been in the habit of doing this to you?” “No,” he said.

Casper – the friendly wonky(sometimes-LOL!)

JUNE

Girl trip to the beach – rest and relaxation needed!

Psalm 23.1-3 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

4th anniversary trip!

1 John 4:19 - We love because he first loved us.

1 Corinthians 16:14 - Do everything in love.

June Races/Runs – Fun time with friends!

Proverbs 17:17 - A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Father’s Day – Exodus 20.12

¹²“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.

My fisherman and encourager…Matthew 4.18-19

¹⁸As Jesus walked alongside the Galilee Sea, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew, throwing fishing nets into the sea, because they were fishermen. ¹⁹“Come, follow me,” he said, “and I’ll show you how to fish for people.”

JULY

Family fun!

Hebrews 2:11
Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.

My brother and his wife new adventure – a food truck.

Sailing with my father-in-law…

Trip to Hot Springs to see some of my dear friends!

Cross made by my dearest and longest friends’ daughter – Emilee. Michelle adopted her this year and expanded her wonderful family. Emilee is quite an artist. We had fun during our visit in July.

THE COLOR RUN…Indianapolis!

Family fun during the Color Run with my sister and two amazing nieces!!

Isaiah 40:31 – 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.

1st Nascar Race @ the Indianapolis Speedway

Acts 20:24 …I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me–the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.

AUGUST

Mud Run – Best 5k ever!

Psalm 40.2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.

The beginning of the dream coming to life…Newsom Woodworks!

Jeremiah 29.11 -

¹¹For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

SEPTEMBER

Great fun at work!

Ecclesiastes 3:22
So I saw that there is nothing better for a person than to enjoy their work, because that is their lot. For who can bring them to see what will happen after them?

FCA 5K and Women’s Half Marathon – Nashville, TN

I^2 – Proverbs 27.17 - As iron sharpens iron,
so one friend sharpens another.

More progress on Newsom Woodworks…Proverbs 14:23
All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.

OCTOBER

More running for HIM…

1 Corinthians 9.24 - Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.

Newsom Woodworks continued…

2nd addition to our donkey family…Bella!

Camping Trip – Stone Mountain

Psalm 24.1 – The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it,
the world, and all who live in it;
²for he founded it on the seas
and established it on the waters.

Run for God Bible Study Fall Break Run

NOVEMBER

1 Thessalonians 5.16-18

¹⁶Rejoice always, ¹⁷pray continually, ¹⁸give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Family came for Thanksgiving!

Pacers for the Chickamauga Half Marathon

1 Thessalonians 5.11

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Proverbs 18.24

One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin,
but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Oakridge Secret City Half Marathon Relay

Newsom Woodworks continued…

^DECEMBER

Hebrews 12.1-3 – Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, ²fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Run For God Graduation Run

Boston Training officially started and entry form for 2013 Boston is in the mail!

Hebrews 11.1 For Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see…

1500 miles has never been in my vision…by HIS grace and for His glory!

Newsom Woodworks to be continued….

Family – I am so blessed!

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

We run into the new year…2013 will be full of blessings from our Lord Jesus Christ.

As I reflect on the blessings of 2012, I am humbled by God’s grace and provision. We are seeing Mike’s God-given dream come to fruition and I have seen my running talent take off once I turned it over to HIM. Our family and friends continue to bless us and complete us. We are so very thankful for everyone in our lives and how each of you have blessed our lives in 2012! We look forward to following the Lord’s lead in 2013!

Running and living BLESSED!!!

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Tagged as Boston, boston marathon, Ezra, God, Lord, Second Epistle to the Corinthians, Team Hoyt

December 25, 2012 · 8:46 pm

My Christmas Mailbox – 1500 miles accomplished!

My Christmas Mailbox – 1500 miles accomplished!

Jeremiah 29.11

¹¹For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

At the beginning of the year I committed to trying to get 1000 miles this year. I knew with my marathon training it would be possible. I had no idea 1500 would be until about 3 months ago. Once I saw that it would actually be doable…I was all for it. I had it planned to finish up on my new year’s eve run. But God had a different plan. He knew I would start my new marathon training plan 2 weeks ago. He knew my beautiful 1500 would come today on Christmas Day. He also knew I would be out there with my training buddy and dear friend, Yoli.

What an incredible feeling it was knowing that the past year I have been able to run for HIM the distance from Dallas, Texas through Los Angeles, California almost getting to Santa Barbara, California. I have driven that route at least 4 times in my life and it amazes me to know I have now run that far…wow! I know it was only with HIS strength that I had the stamina and the discipline to conquer such a feat. My miles were prayed over by many, especially my dear husband who celebrates and encourages every step of the way. Thanks to all of you who are my prayer warriors!!!

There were ups and downs. There were straight stretches and bends. All of these came on the road and in life. But, with Jesus, He made everything beautiful!

“You Make Everything Beautiful!” – Rebecca St. James

Grant me serenity to accept things
The things I cannot change
Grant me the courage, Lord, to change what I can
Wisdom to know the difference
In my weakness You can shine
In Your strength I can fly and

You make everything, everything beautiful
You make everything, everything new
You make everything, everything beautiful
In its time, in Your time
It’s beautiful

Grant me serenity, Lord, and patience
For things will take time
Grant me freedom to walk a new path
And let me feel Your love
In my weakness You can shine
In Your strength I can fly and

Lifting open hands to You my Savior
Beautify my soul
Knowing You redeem my pain and failure
Purify my soul
Beautify my soul!

Praying He helps me lean on HIM in 2013 – and to not forget the 12 most important words -

A Savior Has Been Born To You. He is Christ the LORD!

Praying He helps me spread the news of His birth and His death – saving us from sin through His Grace and Truth because we need a Savior from the mess of this world. He does make everything beautiful!!! Do you know the 12 words? Have they become flesh to you? Have they made your life beautiful even in the ashes? He can and is waiting!

This is my prayer for us all in 2013 – that we have a year of the Lord’s favor! (while also doing our part!)

The Year of the Lord’s Favor - Isaiah 61.1-3

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,
because the Lord has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
²to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
³ and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord
for the display of his splendor.

Tag Archives: God

Seeking His FACE…

A marathon of a different type…Taylor Strong!

The day after….

I can…ONLY imagine!

Cautious Confidence….

Runner’s Passport – I am all in! Are you ALL IN?

1 John 5:11-13

Do you believe I am able to do this? Matthew 9.28b

Let HIS teaching fall like rain…

2012 blessings in photos…

My Christmas Mailbox – 1500 miles accomplished!

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