thanks.

- sweatpants.

- unwinding after a LONG week with a movie and cozy blankets.

- seeing passion for Jesus and transformation happen in the lives of 376 people.

- the pursuit of God's love for me.

- the anticipation of space to myself for 2 whole weeks!

- worship that literally brings me to my knees.

- doing life in community with awesome people. 

- finding my spring/summer attire - clothes that have been in hiding for the last 6 months.

- flip flop wearing.

- driving with the windows rolled down. 

It has been a full week. My heart is bursting with both the good things that were experienced through SOAR these last 10 days and also some of the things that have caused my heart to break. I find myself sitting in the tension of God's love for his children and the brokenness that is this world. It's been a powerful week encountering God's love in my own life. I'm learning it is a process and that God is in a constant pursuit of me and so, as I enter a week devoted to rest, I am choosing to rest in that process of understanding what God's love looks and feels like in my own life. 

5 Days In

SOAR Heartland is 5 days into it's program already, which means we are half way done. It's true what they say, "time flies when you're having fun"! Despite the tiredness that currently resides in my body, I am experiencing so much joy in watching teenagers worship - there is truly a sense that these kids are treading on Holy Ground and it is both humbling and inspiring to be a part of. There have been so many good God stories that have come out of these past 5 days. Teams that have come into this program facing some huge opposition and brokenness are experiencing transformation and healing. Teens who came into this week carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders are being found pouring over scripture at 4 in the morning when they can't sleep. The Spirit is alive and is moving in the lives of each participant here. My heart is overflowing with joy and I am humbled to be a part of this community. God is on the move and I am excited to see how the remainder of our time together this week will unfold.

For pictures check out the SOAR Heartland blog
http://soar-faithhopelove.blogspot.ca/

Cake.

After a year and a half of not having done any cake decorating, I pulled out my "gear" and got to work last week creating a 2 year old's birthday cake. I thought since I might be a little rusty on my skills, it might take me a bit longer to put this cake together, but I was pleasantly surprised. The cake turned out beautiful! 


I was asked to do a Dora themed cake for this little 2 year old, but I must admit, carving a Dora cake is not in my repertoire. So, I came across a Dora and Boots candle at Bulk Barn and thought it would be the perfect cake topper. I was right! Add in some stars and voila, a Dora themed cake a la Kara. Thankfully both the mom and the birthday girl loved it.

The bottom tier was a moist devils chocolate cake (recipe by Martha Stewart) and a chocolate buttercream icing. The second tier was an old fashioned white cake (recipe also by Martha Stewart) and chocolate buttercream icing. 

My New Toy

There is a new toy that has made its home on my kitchen counter. I've been enjoying trying my hand at making different drinks lately and I must admit, I've made some pretty delicious lattes lately. Isn't she a beauty?

This morning, for the first mornings in a few weeks, I was fortunate enough to relax and to take it easy. What better way to start off a Saturday than a perfect cappuccino, paired with a fresh croissant and the Saturday crossword?

Perfection in my books.