No foolin’… it’s his birthday!??

No foolin’! It’s true…. ? My favorite Rope-climbin’, bullwhip snappin’, Campfire cookin’, dimple-grinnin’, blue-eyed brother turns 14 years old today!!!! ?? And he’s just as dashingly handsome as can be!!  ☺️ So y’all, it’s time to pull out the apple pie, cue the confetti, and CELEBRATE!! ??  Wow,!I don’t know about you but I’m just a little-LOT excited and super thankful for this birthday guy!! It’s time for y’all to get t know Nathanael a little better. To help, 6 questions answered by Nathanael himself and 6 very random facts[by me ?]!

Questions!!

How do you take your coffee?  Strong and Black ☕️
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why would you go there? Australia to observe the different life style among other things! [I bet he can fake a pretty mean Australian accent too!? ]
What’s your ultimate Dream job? A job that will make an income. [Smart guy!??]
If you were stuck on a deserted island with only 3 things, what would those 3 things be? a plane, a “How to fly a plane” manual and a map.✈️ [that would fix the problem, wouldn’t it?! ]
Favorite verse of the year: Ephesians 6:11-12 
Favorite Song/hymn: The Battle Belongs to the Lord

Random Facts:

1.) Nathanael is STRONG! ? Y’all, this is the guy who was born with a 6 pack and given the name “little Hercules” at the age of 2! ? He can climb a 50 foot rope with just his hands, outdo everyone in pull ups, and don’t try to beat him when it comes to arm wrestling!! 
2.) He has been dubbed “Camp Cookie”. ;) Give him a dutch oven+campfire and he will give you dinner fit for a king! He’s aim is fantastic flavor in every campfire dish. Nathanael even killed, cleaned, and cooked up a snake over the fire and then ate it all himself a few weeks ago. Yes, he is still alive to talk about it! ????
3.) Nathanael is DETERMINED, persistent, and pretty patient[living with me, you have to be?]! He wont let much deter him from accomplishing what he set’s out to conquer. ?
4.) Nathanael is a HARD worker! Give him manual labor and he will conquer. Clearing brush, building walls, moving boulders… you name, he can do it!
5.) He’s single! ? But a little young for marriage so y’all will have to wait a few years. ?
6.) This guy can EAT! But he is often known for having eyes that are bigger than his stomach! ;)
7.) BONUS!! Today is HIS BIRTHDAY!!!!!!???

Happiest of birthdays[to date!!] Nathanael! I am so thankful to have you for my brother and CAN’T WAIT to see what the days ahead hold for you as you continue to serve the Lord. ☺️? Your fantastic smile, patience, determination, and energetic personality daily bless me! Hope this birthday is filled to the brim with good food and fantastic times for YOU!??? Y’all, don’t leave without wishing Nathanael a very happy birthday in the comment section!!??

“Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
Ephesians 6:11-12

Happy Birthday, Speedy Gonzales Style! Feliz Cumpleaños!

 

“May He grant you according to your heart’s desire, And fulfill all your purpose.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭20:4‬ ‭

the God of my mercy…

“Unto thee, O my strength, will I sing: for God is my defence, and the God of my mercy.”
Psalm 59:17

The God of my mercy! It’s because of His mercy He has saved me[Titus 3:5] and this week I have been reminded that in MERCY He leads me. That was a sweet reminder for me this week as I unexpectedly faced an “unknown path” for the days ahead! “For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.”[Is 41:13] Merciful : 1. Compassionate[Ps 145:8]; tender[Ps 145:9]; unwilling to give pain[Lam 3:33]; not cruel[2 Peter 3:8-10].  The Lord God is merciFUL, He holds us by the hand, and leads us in mercy! Because He is the God of mercy, we can fully trust the path that He leads us on knowing He leads us “in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” [Ps 23:3] and “All the paths of the LORD are MERCY and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.” [Ps 25:10] We can trust Him with the past, present, and future[Jer 29:11]  and we can rest assured that He will work all things together for our good and His glory[Rom 8:28]. Even in times of trial or affliction[2 Cor4:17] ! In His mercy, we are chastened[Heb 12:6], tried[Job 23:10 ], and refined[Zechariah 13:9]! I am reminded of Lamentations 3:32 where it says, “But though he cause grief, yet will he have compassion according to the multitude of his mercies.” According to the multitude of His mercies…. seeing there is no end to His mercy there will be no end to His compassion! :)  And it that same chapter we are told “It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.“[Lam 3:22-23]. So, today I am rejoining in the truth that God is the God of my mercy. Come what may! As we face the unseen curves in the road of life, change, “unexpected”, or challenges/trials, He is merciful and can be fully trusted! Random midnight musing, I know!???  I would LOVE to hear verse(s) the Lord has been using to encourage you this week. ↓↓ Leave a comment in the comment box below and have a fantastic Sunday!!

“For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward them that fear Him.”
Psalm 103:11

The unseen || Midday Meditation

“While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”
2 Corinthians 4:18

“For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?”
Romans 8:24

“For we walk by faith, not by sight”
2 Corinthians 5:7

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
Hebrews 11:1

“Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be. And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah’s womb: He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;  And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.”
Romans 4:18-21

Crossing the Finish line!!! || 100MileMonday

Wow, we have come to our FINAL 100mileMonday post for this challenge!?? How unbelievable is that? ? NOW is the time to log your mileage for WEEK 13! If you have any question as to whether all 13 of your mile logs have been received, please don’t hesitate to send me an email at Sring100@shilohPhotography.com ! I will send your log over asap. ?Alrighty, before we move forward with some OUTRAGEOUS fun and EXCITEMENT for the final Spring100 post, PLEASE fill out your FINAL FORM NOW! ????

READ: You have until 11:59pm tonight(June 19th, 2017) to complete your 100 and qualify for the Spring100 prize! If you can submit your final miles BY Thursday, June 22, that would be fantastic.   I will be tallying up each participant’s mileage and sending out an email for your shipping address (if I don’t already have them) within the next 72 hours. PLEASE keep your eyes open for that email and response as soon as humanly possible! ??

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WEEK 13 FINAL MILEAGE FORM

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“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 3:13-14

CONGRATULATIONS!! ??Y’all are crossing the finish line for the 2017 Spring?!!!??

It has been a fantastic 13 WEEKS, hasn’t it?!☺️ What began as a simple idea turned into a fantastic challenge, truly blessed by the Lord, and I am completely overwhelmed and grateful for the turn-out we have had for our first Spring100! Guys & gals from across the globe have joined together… from Kansas to France to Mexican and back again and I am truly blown away! :) During this Spring100 challenge, thousands of miles have been walked/run+logged, goals met, races finished, hurtles overcome[y’all broken bones, bronchitis, and flooding is no small feat! ]friends made, and really a lot of encouraging fun enjoyed! ?? We have all had the same goal and that is to run the race set before us with endurance, whether it be the physical race or spiritual! Today is the final 2017 100MileMonday post and it’s really bitter-sweet. Out of all those who joined nearly 2/3rds of the Spring100ers have officially crossed the finish line and there are a few rounding the corner. I hear some of y’all will be putting in quite a few miles today just to make their goal of 100 miles by the end of this challenge[deadline is tonight at 11:59pm!] WAY TO GO!!?? For those who weren’t able to finish,  don’t give up and join me next year.  :) Y’all have done a great job and I have been so blessed to see your endurance and determination! Thank you for joining me for the first official SPRING100! This challenge has been made possible by all you and your active participation. YOU have blessed me! :) My prayer for each of you today is that you would leave this challenged encouraged in the Lord and ready to tackle whatever challenges come your way as you find your strength in our Lord + set your sight on Him.  Lord willing, I will see y’all next year for the 2018 Spring100!! ??

??Y’all, we have a super special Spring100 story below from Charity! ? I can’t tell you how much her email and and all the photo submission made my day. ??❤️❤️❤️ DON’T leave until you make sure to leave her a congratulations in the comment section!  Scroll down and enjoy all the fantastic photos from some of our Spring100ers!!??

Charity wrote, “Thanks so much for hosting the SPRING100 challenge! I’m finally submitting some pictures… seven weeks into the challenge I took the walk of a lifetime on St Augustine beach. I thought it was just going to be a sunrise walk with my family, but then my best friend proposed to me there!” CONGRATULATIONS Charity!! How exciting is this>! Rejoicing with you and absolutely loving the photos. ?☺️

Austin + Kandace grabbing their miles on the treadmill! I’ve so enjoyed seeing their dedication. Way to go!!???

-Melanie’s enjoying a windy walk for her last few miles. Loved having This sweet Ohio friend join this challenge!!  Well done, Melanie!!???
-Sarah overcame huge obstacles ?and miraculously finished her Spring100! ?This photo was taken just as she finished her final miles!! Fantastic job, Sarah. ?

-Katelyn didn’t let her late start get the better of her! She’s been hustling to make it to mile 100 and this picture proves she did it. :) Love this final mile photo!! Way to go, Katelyn(and crew!!)?

Bethany & Hannah have added so much fun and joy to the Spring100!! Love Bethany’s victory 100 mile photo. Thank you  ladies for joining!! ?

-Snapped this pic as Nathanael was jogging until midnight last night to catch up on a few miles! I have enjoyed seeing how he has gone above and beyond this challenge. Thank you for joining the challenge Nathanael!!???
-Leah should win “Spring100 encourager” award! Her photos, comments, and constant encouragement has been such a blessing and boost. Thank you LEAH!!☺️❤️

Mom walked her very last mile this morning with my Dad by her side! He vowed that he would help her get to 100miles even if he had to carry her half the way! ?

Elisha + Adele have been inspirational and encouraging during the Spring100! Way to go, Elisha.  You have been committed and faithful!?❤️

Proof that Miles can be accomplished even during business trips! ?
-Grace + Micah grabbed a walk at the Dallas Trade Center and Sarah successfully snagged a few miles while convention photographing in CO! Loved having you ladies join the Spring100. THANK YOU!!☺️???

Natalie was a faithful Spring100er even on Vacation!!?  It’s been a pleasure having you join us, Natalie. Thankful for your faithful participation!!☺️

-If Abel is one thing, it’s disciplined! And the Spring100 was no exception!!? This is his 100 mile victory thumbs up! Thanks for being a part of the challenge Abel. Wouldn’t have been the same without you!!??
– Sharon has blessed us with beautiful views and spring snow! ?Her walks have been enjoyed in the lovely state of Colorado and we’ve enjoyed having her join the Spring100.  Thank you, Sharon!!

-Lydia has gone way above and beyond and shes always been super faithful to help me retrieve Spring100 photos for my 100mileMonday posts! Thank you a million times over, Lydia!!! ??
-Catherine joined in the photo submission fun this week! She’s grabbing a break in between taxing ;) work! Way to go, Catherine. So happy to have you!!

Julie + Annie have been so fun to have in this challenge! I can tell by their photos they have both energy and spunk.?? Thank you for blessing me by joining this challenge Annie & Julie! You have done a wonderful job!!?

-Emmi has been our youngest and perhaps most energetic Spring100er. ?? She has informed me that I am a slow walker! Thanks for keeping us company on our Spring100 walks, Emmi. You did a great job!!
-Way to go everyone! Keep on running with endurance in the days ahead as you find your strength in the Lord. He truly is faithful!!?

“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking 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 is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.  For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.”
Hebrews 12:1-4

Best Dad + 34 years and counting!! ??

“The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.“
Proverbs 20:7

Pssst… Did y’all know…. Today is one of the best days of the year?? Today is FATHER’S DAY!!! ?? 34 years jammed packed for my Dad and his “fathering” career! So much sacrifice has been made these years that I hardly know where to start….. 34 years, 14 children, countless diaper changes, midnight walks with sleepless babies, long hours worked to provide for a quickly growing family, bike riding lessons, loose teeth that need to be pulled, future drivers to teach, and that’s just the beginning!! 34 years of sacrifice. :) “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” My Dad has truly laid down his life for each one of his children… from the oldest to the youngest and we are truly thankful! So a huge →THANK YOU← to my Dad, I am Thankful to the Lord for you. :) HAPPY 34th Father’s Day and may there be many more to come!

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”
John 15:13

Hair cuts for Emmi

“Blessed is every one who fears the LORD, Who walks in His ways. When you eat the labor of your hands, You shall be happy, and it shall be well with you. Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine In the very heart of your house, Your children like olive plants All around your table. Behold, thus shall the man be blessed Who fears the LORD.”‭‭

Psalms‬ ‭128:1-4‬ ‭

5.4.3.2.1… PARTY TIME!!! ??

Y’ALL, it’s time to CELEBRATE!! That’s right, today is ABEL’S BIRTHDAY!!! WOW… Cue confetti and sound the blow horns… it’s PARTY TIME! ?? This handsome guy turns 12 years old and I couldn’t be any more excited!! ?? AND with the birthday celebrations today is also the day y’all get to learn a little bit more about Abel. SO MUCH I could say about this guy but I will sum it all up with 6 questions answered by the birthday boy himself and 6 random facts by me!! :D So, without further ado….

Questions:

How do you take your coffee?  I don’t take it!
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why would you go there? Montana for a hunting trip!
What’s your ultimate Dream job? Woodwork/refinisher! [he has already done several pieces and is fantastic at it!!??]
If you were stuck on a deserted island with only 3 things, what would those 3 things be? Boat, lifetime supply of food + water, and a million dollars! [y’all… I am guess he is planning on using the million dollars for fire starters?! ?]
Favorite verse of the year: Ephesians 6:11-12
Favorite Song/hymn: Battle Hymn of the Republic!

Random Facts:

1.) Abel is super dedicated and diligent! Early to rise, quick to finish chores, memorize his scripture verses, and always on top of any job he’s given!
2.) He really loves sandwiches and chopped salad! ;D Not uncommon to see him with 4 sandwiches at one setting and my lettuce supply usually quickly vanishes when Abel is near….??
3.) Abel is the world’s greatest Masseur and often offers up his services for an aching back after a long word day!
4.) He is super strong! If you challenge him in a friendly game of fisticuffs or perhaps you ask him to arm wrestle… be ready to lose! ;) ?
5.) Abel is a natural-born encourage and that, my friends, is a gift you can’t take for granted!! He’s always the first to wish you a happy morning, ask if you need any help, or offer a word of encouragement to a weary soul! SO THANKFUL!!!
6.) TODAY IS HIS BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!??

Happy 12th birthday to you, Abel!! I am SO tremendously blessed to be your sister. Your diligence, encouraging spirit, and enthusiasm have inspired me and I am truly thankful for you. I  can’t wait to see what the days ahead hold as you continue to seek and serve our Lord and Savior! Enjoy YOUR BIRTHDAY, eat an extra piece of cake, and have fun!!!???

→→Y’all help us celebrate this special guy by leaving a happy birthday note in the comment section below!! ↓↓

” Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
Ephesians 6:11-12

Battle hymn of the republic

“The Lord bless thee, and keep thee:
 The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”
Numbers 6:24-26

Welcome Week 13 || 100MileMonday

“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.”
2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Welcoming our very last week of the  Spring100!! ? We are just 7 days away from completing this 92 day challenge. How unbelievable is that?  NOW is the time to log your mileage for WEEK 12! Super easy form to fill out below.?? If you aren’t sure if your form was submitted correctly, keep an eye on your email. Automatic replies will be sent within 2 hours after clicking “submit” ! If you have any questions at all in regards to the SPRING100, leave a comment below or send over an email to Spring100@shilohPhotography.com!

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WEEK 12 MILEAGE FORM

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The above is a video that has inspired me over the years and continues to! Here is a little background story for those who have never heard of “team Hoyt”:

As a result of oxygen deprivation to Rick’s brain at the time of his birth, Rick was diagnosed as a spastic quadriplegic with cerebral palsy and would never be able to talk or walk. Dick and Judy were advised to institutionalize Rick because there was no chance of him recovering, and little hope for Rick to live a “normal” life. Rick’s parents said “no” to the recommendation to institutionalize him. In the spring of 1977, Rick told his father that he wanted to participate in a 5-mile run. Far from being a long-distance runner, Dick agreed to push Rick in his wheelchair and they finished all 5 miles, coming in next to last. That night, Rick told his father, “Dad, when I’m running, it feels like I’m not handicapped.” This realization was just the beginning of what would become over 1,000 races completed, including marathons, duathlons and triathlons (6 of them being Ironman competitions). Also adding to their list of achievements, Dick and Rick biked and ran across the U.S. in 1992, completing a full 3,735 miles in 45 days.

Why does this inspire me? Many reasons! :) Besides the determination + dedication of the father and Dick’s love for his son, I think the greatest inspiration I find from this story is it is a perfect example of God’s strength made perfect in weakness.  2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness”! So, when the going gets tough and you are ready to give up, remember…. the same God who has given strength to this father-son team to achieve the “impossible” is the same God who daily strengthens us both physically and spiritually[Isaiah 40:29]! Spring100 is coming to an end. Just 7 more days and we will be crossing this challenge’s finish line! But for those of us who are saved by the shed blood of Jesus Christ, the call to run with endurance will continue on and we can do so as we find our strength in the Lord!  “For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death.” Psalm 48:14

How was week 12 for you all? It’s been a great week for me and I’m thoroughly enjoying every mile! I absolutely loved receiving all your photos and can’t wait to share below but first an ANNOUNCEMENT! ‼️** MUST READ** Okay, next week is the FINAL 100MileMonday post! I would ABSOLUTELY LOVE to have everyone participating send in a photo this week to help celebrate at the “finish line” 100MileMonday Post and make the final post the BEST EVER!!! I am hoping to see all of YOU and if you haven’t submitted a photo for this challenge yet… now is your chance! So, that means you need to send YOUR Spring100 photo to Sring100@shilohPhotography.com by next Monday! Have fun walking/running week 13 of the Spring?!!

??2 questions for this week!! ?? 1.) Do you plan on continuing walking/running after the completion of the Spring100? 2.) Since summer is just 7 days away, what are your Summer plans? ☀️DON’T LEAVE without answering at least one OR both of these questions in the comment section below. I can’t wait to hear your answer!!

Sharon had a breathtaking view for her 6 mile Spring100 hike yesterday!! She eve had a little snow once she got above 11,00 feet. ?Wonderful photos Sharon!!?

Y’all, we have some dedicated joggers here for the Spring100! Austin + Joel are conquering week 12.??

Annie had a few extra walking friends this week when Mom + brothers decided to join her on a Spring100 walk and  Leah is looking absolutely gorgeous as she grabs a mile in between church services! Way to go ladies!! ?

Hannah is enjoying her Spring100 walk with her Spring100 water bottle!!! :) Made my day seeing this photo. Keep up the fantastic work, Hannah!!☺️?

Ruth’s enjoying the Texas Sunshine during her walk and yes, that is Dash the Dog joining her. He’s just looking a little bare at the moment as he sports his summer look! ?

Grace + Lydia have been going above and beyond this Spring100. Keeping the younger girls on track with their daily miles is no small task! ???

Another beautiful sunset during my Spring100 walk! The heavens truly declare the glory of God ??? Ps 19:1

“While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”
2 Corinthians 4:18

Weenie Roast Smiles! ♥

 

“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;  Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;  Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;  Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.  Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.  Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.”
Romans 12:10-21

Hello y’all… it’s Week 12!! || 100MileMonday

“I have set the Lord always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.“
Psalm 16:8

Well ladies and gentlemen, it’s officially official. Week 12 of the Spring100 is HERE!! As usually, formalities first! ? NOW is the time to log your mileage for WEEK 11! Super easy form to fill out below.?? If you aren’t sure if your form was submitted correctly, keep an eye on your email. Automatic replies will be sent within 2 hours after clicking “submit” ! If you have any questions at all in regards to the SPRING100, leave a comment below or send over an email to Spring100@shilohPhotography.com!

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WEEK 11 MILEAGE FORM

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Well, not only have we entered June but we have also entered week 12 of the SPRING100.  WAY TO GO!! ?? The FINAL day of the SPRING100 is June 19th so y’all officially have exactly 2 week left to complete and submit your miles. I am so excited to see you all cross the finish line!!!  This week’s verse is Psalm 16:8, “I have set the Lord always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.“ And yes, this is a perfect verse to memorize as you conquer week 12 of the Spring100! ;) This one verse reminds me of a couple other verses that always bring me so much encouragement- Psalm 34:5 “They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.”and Isaiah 50:7 “For the Lord GOD will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed.” Keep on looking to the Lord and thoroughly ENJOY week 12!! I know I will be here in Texas!! ???☀️

??2 questions for this week!! ?? 1.) What is your least favorite weather to walk in?  2.) AND the question of the season which has absolutely nothing to do with walking/running… ??PINEAPPLE or WATERMELON? Which is your favorite????? DON’T LEAVE without answering at least one OR both of these questions in the comment section below. I can’t wait to hear your answer!!

????DON’T FORGET! These posts are made possible by your fantastic Spring100 photos!!! Help make the 100MileMonday posts fun and interactive by leaving a comment below and sending in your photos. Snap a picture of yourself walking and send to Spring100@shilohPhotography.com for next week’s post! :)

So glad to have Sarah M. recovered from an injury and back in action and Lydia’s looking lovely as she conquers her Spring100!!❤️??

Rachel A. from the great Midwest enjoyed a Memorial Day walk with family and even found something worth climbing! Way to go Rachel!!?

??? Sarah B. completed her first official 5K this weekend and Leah’s going strong with weights for her Spring100!! Way to go ladies!!?????

Grace is enjoying a little break from the Texas rain and this fun duo did their mile together! Dixie seams to be a little camera shy. ???

Bekah + Lydia have been a great team! And how gorgeous sis that sunset captured during one of their walks?!??

Elisha + Adele looking lovely as they grab their miles and my parents enjoying a Spring100 walk at the Alamo this weekend. ??

Got to enjoy a couple walks with these cuties this weekend! Bekah + Emmi(and Fudge, the cat ;) were great walking partners! ???

“Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.”
Psalm 16:11

The eternal God is thy refuge…

“The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms…”
Deuteronomy 33:27

“While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”
2 Corinthians 4:18

“Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.”
1 Timothy 1:17

Well, look at week 11!! || 100MileMonday

Well, how did week 11 get here?!! Time really does fly when you’re having fun!! ?? NOW is the time to log your mileage for WEEK 10! Super easy form to fill out below.?? If you aren’t sure if your form was submitted correctly, keep an eye on your email. Automatic replies will be sent within 2 hours after clicking “submit” ! If you have any questions at all in regards to the SPRING100, leave a comment below or send over an email to Spring100@shilohPhotography.com!

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WEEK 10 MILEAGE FORM


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Here we are rounding the corner to the finish line of the SPRING100! Wow… way to go to you all. ?? Each of you has made fantastic progress and it’s such a blessing to see your determination! A couple of you are actually nearing the 200 mile mark for the Spring100. That is truly fantastic!!! How was week 10 for you? I really enjoyed week 10. The walks and a couple runs I took were so refreshing!!

“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us” Hebrews 12:1

QUESTION: Have you thought about the fact that weight and sin mentioned in Hebrews 12 are 2 different things? :) Random question, I know! ;) I was reminded the other day of an instance a few year ago. It was early January, I was dealing with a bit of discouragement, and for some reason when I woke up one morning I just felt like I needed to go out for a run! Mind you, I hadn’t run in 10 years so the urge to run wasn’t natural. ? For me, it was to experience what it felt like to run and how it would be to physically run with endurance and I knew this would help me as I compared the actual physical run with my spiritual run! It was a super cold morning so I put on my running shoes and bundled up[y’all I am a “cold weather wimp” ;]. 2 long sleeve thermal tops, puffer vest, a heavy jacket, gloves, ear warmers, long exercise pants… you name it, I wore it! ;)  I looked like the abominable snow woman in South Texas??[click here for visual]. These were all what I considered necessary garments for running in the “bitter cold”! As I took off running I didn’t make it very far before I found these “comforts” were actually weights holding me back from fully running! They were literally entangling me and I had to throw off the extra weight of the jacket, gloves, and hat in order to better run!

“Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” Galatians 4:31

I learned 2 things that morning run! 1.) I couldn’t physically run to save my life ? & 2.) The weight mentioned in Hebrews 12:1 was just like my heavy layers! You see, my heavy winter jacket wasn’t a bad thing and it brought me a lot of comfort BUT it was holding me back from running. The  word weight mentioned in Hebrews 12:1 means “a burden or something so heavy and cumbersome that it impedes a runner from running his race as he should.” This weight may be “things” that in themselves may not be sins but hold us back from running the spiritual race to our fullest[if y’all remember,  traditions -which seemed to be good things to them- were weighing the Galatians down when Paul had to reprimand them— Read Galatians 4].  We will be faced with both weight and sin in this life that will need to be thrown off in order to run this spiritual race! It will be a life-long pursuit of spiritual purging. :) The Weight can come in packages that may not be weight for others but is for you…. It is something that is literally pulling you back when you are trying to run full force forward! The weight can be an actual thing like the amount of time you spend on the internet or on social networking? It could be the books you’re allowing yourself to read or the magazines you pick up at the grocery store or some form of entertainment, a  job you work, or the places you allow yourself to hangout?  But weights can also be overly-busy schedules, routines, attitudes, goals, habits, thoughts, aspirations, or future dreams which are not necessarily bad but  are keeping you from setting your eyes on Jesus and running with endurance! Or the weight could come in other forms.

“No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.” 2 Tim 2:4-5

The Holy Spirit is urging you and me to take a good look at our lives and remove/lay aside everything that weighs us down and keeps us from a life of obedience[2 John 1:6]. We must be honest with ourselves and with God. Remember, there is nothing done in secret[whether thought or deed] that He does not know[Ps 139:1-2]. Do you have sin or weight that binds you and is holding you back from running? This week I want to encourage you all to pray that the Lord would show you the extra weights and sins that are holding you back from fully running this race for His glory. When He answers, don’t ignore it! Ask yourself, “Does —fill in the blank— help me run the race for Jesus or hinder me?” Then (in God’s strength) do just what Hebrews 12:1 says to- lay it aside! To lay aside is a deliberate decision to make a permanent change. Don’t say you just can’t throw —fill in the blank— off because, in all honesty, that isn’t the truth[1 Cor 10: 13]!  You can throw off the weight and sin through the strength of the Lord, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Phil 4:13. Yep, that’s my really random and long Week 11 musing! Phew, thank you for being a listening ear to my rambles. ;)  I am praying for each one of you as you conquer week 11 of the Spring100 and seek to throw off that weight and the sin which so easily besets us. God is faithful! If you need someone to pray for you as you throw off certain weights or sin, send me an email to rachel@shilohphotography.com HERE. I will be honored to join you in prayer!?

??2 questions for this week!! ?? 1.) What is the strangest thing you have seen during your Spring100 walks/runs??  2.) How many of you have already completed the 100 miles and are pushing forward for more??  Comment below answering one or both questions! Happy walking/running for week 5.

????DON’T FORGET! To make the 100MileMonday posts fun and interactive, I need to hear from YOU! Leave comments below and feel free to comment on other Spring100er’s comments. Also, these posts are made possible by your fantastic Spring100 photos. I would LOVE for next week’s post to be the BEST YET!! So that means I need you to  Snap a picture of yourself walking and send to Spring100@shilohPhotography.com for next week’s post! :)

Hannah & Bethany enjoyed their Spring100 walk in West Virginia this week!! Bethany says, “This house was built by our great great great great great great grandfather in 1770 and is the oldest house on its original foundation in the state!” Keep up the wonderful work ladies!!

My Mom has been enjoying her Spring100 miles with my Dad. Beach breezes and evening sunset walks are the best!! Looking lovely :D

Leah + Honey

Ruth!

Great NEWS!! With a few training sessions and treats, Leah has Honey back to walking the spring100!! :D Way to go Leah ??!! Ruth has been so dedicated. Love seeing her out getting her miles in! ?

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Date-night walk around the park for Katelyn who is looking GORGEOUS and Bekah is enjoying a bit of a run for her Spring100! Wonderful job, ladies!! ?

Gotta Love this walking crew!! Lydia, Ruth, and Abel have been so faithful to get their daily miles and Nathanael is going strong with his Spring100. Keep up the great work y’all!!

Can’t get over the gorgeous sunsets I have soooo enjoyed for the Spring100! ?? Keep up the wonderful work and DON’T leave without leaving a comment. ??

“Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.”
1 Corinthians 9:24

Sandy toes! || Port A. 2017

“He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
 Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven. Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!”
Psalm 107:29-31

 

Sandy toes and sun kissed cheeks makes for a trip that can’t be beat! ☺️?☀️ With eager anticipation bags were packed, sunglasses accounted for, and sand castle supplies collected. To the sandy shores of Port A. we were headed! It was SUCH a blessing to take a breather and spend some beautiful time soaking up the sunshine with my family. Icecream was enjoyed, sunburns acquired, sandcastles successfully built, and [of course] seashells collected!!??  So thankful to the Lord for the time He allowed us to spend in Port A. And now I have quite a few photos to prove it! So, how about a trip to the beach? :)

Since we arrived on Mother’s Day, we enjoyed a lovely picnic dinner!

The much aticipated first trip to the beach!

A few fun poses! ;)

Beach sunrise!!!

Sand Castle building!

Family Pyramid! :D

Beach Volleyball!

 

“Whoso is wise, and will observe these things, even they shall understand the lovingkindness of the Lord.”
Psalm 107:43

Winner for week 10!! || 100mileMonday

“For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.”
1 Timothy 4:8

Can y’all believe we are at week 10 of the SPRING100 already?! ?? This has been such a fun challenge to have you all join. I am so thankful for the determination you have shown! Way to go. :)  NOW is the time to log your mileage for WEEK 9! Super easy form to fill out below.?? If you aren’t sure if your form was submitted correctly, keep an eye on your email. Automatic replies will be sent within 2 hours after clicking “submit” ! If you have any questions at all in regards to the SPRING100, leave a comment below or send over an email to Spring100@shilohPhotography.com!

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WEEK 9 MILEAGE FORM

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“It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O Most High: To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night”
Psalm 92:1-2

So many fun entries to last week’s give-away!! ?? I LOOOVED each one and can’t wait to share them with you all. AND we do have a winner! ? The question asked was “If you could walk the Spring100 with any historical figure, who would it be?” Y’all chose some fantastic people to walk with!  I am reminded of verse 1 in Hebrews 12 where it says “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses”. These witnesses are men and women who have finished the race, who have run with endurance, and left a lasting testimony! These witnesses are not those who have witnessed their own faithfulness in running but God’s faithfulness working through them. Whether it be Corrie Ten Boom, the Apostle Paul, or King David- their testimony points us to God’s faithfulness in their lives and HIS strength made perfect in weakness! As we look to these men and women, we are pointed to the grace of our Lord and Savior. :) So, who is ready to conquer week 10 of the Spring100? Let’s do it! Congratulations to Marie for completing her first competitive trail run this past week!! She tied for second position of all ladies. ?? WAY TO GO!! She has inspired me with her dedication and endurance!!

Who is ready to find out the winner?????? With the help of Random.org , the winner of the Spring100 week 9 giveaway is… drum roll please….???

Congratulations Hannah!! Your prize is on it’s way!!

All answers below the Spring100 participants submitted photo! SO MUCH FUN!!  Y’all enjoy looking through them and remember to leave Hannah a congratulations!!

Grace: MOSES!
** FUN walking group, Grace! :)

Katelyn: Corrie Ten Boom!! I have been fascinated by her story of forgiving what we would consider today the unforgivable.  I would love to learn more from her who gave all to Christ. }
***Adorable babies and beautiful mom!! Way to go Katelyn :)

Round of applause for Marie! Way to go on the Trail run. :) :)

Sharon: Abraham Lincoln. Have wanted to talk with him for years. So why not walk and talk?
** How beautiful is Sharon’s view?!!

Hannah: if I could walk with anyone, it would probably be Fanny Crosby
** Loving the Spring Blooms Hannah!

Sarah from Kansas!

Natalie!

Sarah: I would love to talk to Ann Judson or Harriet Newell if I had the chance!
Natalie: Gladys Aylward, missionary to China… because she’s a good, godly role model, and she did a “Spring100” of her own     when she led all those children to safety! :)
*** Keep up the fantastic work ladies!!

Deb S.: Susannah Wesley.

Elisha: If I could walk with any historical character, I think I’d like to walk with Sarah from the Bible — she’d have so much wisdom to impart, I’m sure!
*** Love the hat, Elisha! And those gorgeous little ladies.

Lydia: I would like to walk with king David.?

Melanie!!

Leah!!

Melanie: I would love to walk with Jenny Faulding, who became Mrs. Hudson Taylor. She was a missionary to China and if I recall correctly was dubbed essentially ‘Miss Sunshine’ by the natives. What a treat it would be to learn from her!
*** Adorable goslings Melanie!!
Leah: I would love to be able to walk with Corrie Ten Boom. Her life and writings have been an encouragement to me and it would be nice to be able to talk with her and ask her more questions about her life and her walk with the Lord.
*** Fantastic sunflare Leah! :D

Joel: Any historical figure-Noah after the flood
Abel: I would like to walk with Robert E. Lee after the battle of bull run.
*** Keep up the great work guys!

Bethany

Rebekah

Bethany: if I could walk with someone from history, one person I would probably choose would be Gladys Aylward.
*** Looking Lovely Bethany!
Rebekah: Rebekah from the bible! :)
*** Nice choice Bekah! ;)

Yes, I have had a few rainy walks. Me: Ruth the Moabite! I am always blessed by her selfless love and servant’s heart when I read the story! Have fun for week 10 y’all!! ALMOST to the finish line!!!

“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking 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 is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Hebrews 12:1-2

Voice for the voiceless || Resource Wednesday

Every 30 seconds a baby’s life is taken by abortion. It is a sobering and heartbreaking fact, isn’t it? In Proverbs 31:8 we are called to be a voice for the voiceless as it commands us to “Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.” Will you be a voice for the preborn? We can all do something. We can all take a stand against abortion and be a voice for the babies in the womb.  No, not all of us are called by the Lord to daily stand outside of abortion mills but we are called to defend innocent life[Ps 82:3-4] and there are ways we can do so daily! A few ways I have found for myself: Pray for the abolishment of abortion… DAILY[The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.-James 5:16]. Share the gospel[because truly, the heart of the matter is the matter of the heart!Romans 8:5]. Call representatives when crucial bills are being passed. Present the truth about abortion through tracts, social media, bumper stickers , or face-to-face. Yes, the very hard but very simple truth is abortion is murder and an innocent baby’s life is taken. Today I want to share with you all with a video made by a sweet friend that REALLY encouraged me and also a resource! Please take time to watch the short 6 minute video and reshare. The Resource:  I have been searching recently for a anti-abortion tract but was having an extremely hard time finding tracts that had the pro-life message with scripture. So, for those who are interested, I have designed a simple 3×3 inch business card style tract and will be sending packs of 10 free of cost for you to distribute in your area. Tract-request form below along with a sample of the tract! Pin them on the community bulletin boards at your favorite coffee shop, leave them in a bathroom stalls, hand them to random people, etc.!

“Deliver those that are drawn toward death, hold back those that are stumbling to the slaughter;” 

Proverbs 24:11


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Tract Request Form

 

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“Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy.
Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked.”
Psalm 82:3-4

GIVEAWAY for week 9!! || 100mileMonday

” I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths.  When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble.”
Proverbs 4:11-12

It’s TRUE! We have a really fun give-away for week 9 of the  Spring100!! ? BUT FIRST NOW is the time to log your mileage for WEEK 8! Super easy form to fill out below.?? If you aren’t sure if your form was submitted correctly, keep an eye on your email. Automatic replies will be sent within 2 hours after clicking “submit” ! If you have any questions at all in regards to the SPRING100, leave a comment below or send over an email to Spring100@shilohPhotography.com!

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WEEK 8 MILEAGE FORM

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?? OKAY!!! Now it’s time for the give-away. Giving away a 25 oz BPA-free Phil 4:13 Water bottle to keep you hydrated and encouraged during your Spring100 walks AND a $10 Chick-fil-a Gift Card! YUM!!??

TO ENTER: Keeping rules super simple. Simply send me an email with a photo of YOU walking during week 9 and the answer to the below question! For the give-away PLEASE send both picture and answer to my email, Spring100@shilohPhotography.com with subject “Spring100 GiveAway”.

QUESTION: If you could walk the Spring100 with any historical figure, who would it be?

Stipulations/rules/deadlines: You must be a member of the Spring100 to enter! Picture can be a super fun selfie or picture someone else takes of you but it must be taken during a Spring100 walk and YOU have to be in the photo. Be creative and make it a fun photo!! Send both photo and question answer to Spring100@shilohPhotography.com with subject “Spring100 GiveAway”. Submission Deadline is Sunday, May 21st at 8pm(cst)! Winner will be randomly selected and announced on next Monday’s 100MileMonday post!!

Any giveaway questions can be asked in the comment section below! :) I will answer asap!!

Enjoy week 9 of the SPRING100! I will be praying for you all as you conquer your miles and spiritually run with endurance. Have fun!

Needless to say, my Spring100 walks have left me speechless! Too much beautiful scenery!! ??

Rachel A. enjoyed a Family Spring100 Walk in the great midwest! ??

Elisha + Adele!!

Elisha + Adele are doing a wonderful job! Way to Go.I have been thoroughly enjoying my sunny Texas walks for week 8!

Lydia + Bekah braved the rain showers to complete their miles and Annie + Julia are catching their breathe after a 7 mile Spring100 walk in South Dakota! Fantastic job ladies????

? Loving Abel’s dedication! This Spring100 team is always inspirational.?

“Thou hast enlarged my steps under me; so that my feet did not slip.”
Samuel 22:37