A Little Valentine's Day Show and Tell

As you all know, yesterday was Valentine's Day.  My hubby and I have been pinching pennies lately for upcoming expenses, so we had decided to delay our Valentine's celebration until we could better afford it . . . or so I thought.

As we said goodbye at the door, he gave me a rather pathetic "Happy Valentine's Day" wish, got into the car, and set off for work.  A few hours later, he called me.  When I asked, he assured me that no gifts were necessary, but then he surprised us by coming home for lunch.

Behind his back were a dozen roses, six white and six purple, my favorite color!  As he rushed back out the door he said "Your gift to me can be steak, okay?"  (Which, considering I couldn't get out, sounded great to me.)  When he got off work and was headed to the store he called again.  "Get dressed up, get the kids dressed up, and break out the silver and china.  I'm cooking supper!"

My children and I rushed to get dressed, get the table set, and find some romantic classical music.  When Jason arrived home, grocery bags in hand, I helped him prepare the food while my children danced in the living room to the "fancy" music.  When all was ready, Jason gave each child their Valentine.  My son got a balloon, and my daughter, who had been begging for one of my roses, received a rose of her own! 

We took pictures of ourselves, and then Jason taught my son how to pull out a chair for a lady.  It was so sweet to watch my son learn to be a gentleman and my daughter learn how to graciously accept his chivalry!  We enjoyed my husband's amazing steaks, baked sweet potatoes, asparagus, sparkling cider, and chocolate pie for dessert.

Our candlelight dinner was such a wonderfully memorable event!  This amazing man managed to not only romance me on a budget, but to teach and love on both our children in a special way at the same time.  This Valentine's Day will go down in Anderson family history.

Why am I sharing?  I wanted to show you a picture of what Godly romance can look like.  The flowers were lovely, the dinner was wonderful, but what touched my heart most was the look on my children's faces as their Daddy validated them in such a meaningful way.  It was more than just a special evening, it was a celebration of just how rich in love we are, both as a couple and as a family.

Don't go looking for just anyone to satisfy your need for love, and don't try to find completeness in another human being, no matter who they are.  Find your sufficiency in Christ.  He has given you the ultimate Valentine.  From there, allow God to lead you, and if marriage is part of His design, then refuse to settle for anything less than His perfect partner for you.  Other people might date more often, maybe receive a few more flowers and chocolates, but the rewards of waiting will last long after the petals fade.

A Quick Note From the Trenches

Psalm 34:19-20     Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the LORD delivers him out of them all.  He guards all his bones; Not one of them is broken (NKJV).


My apologies for the lack of posts lately, folks!  I've been facing several battles of my own lately, seemingly from all sides.  As I've worked my way through them, God began asking me, "April, do you really believe that my grace is sufficient?  Do you truly believe that I can meet your needs?  If so, then trust me.  Don't worry, it's not your job to find the solution, it's mine."

Some of my problems have resolved themselves, others we're still struggling through.  However, I'm committing myself to trust and obey.  When we're doing the work of God, sometimes we face opposition.  If that's you this week, then know that you're not alone and cling to the promises God has made you.  He is with you, and that should bring you tremendous comfort.  He loves you, and He will provide the solution to your problems if you don't take matters into your own hands.

I know this is a short little devo, but I hope it meets you where you are.  I've got to get back to the battle front for now, but I refuse to despair.  The battle is not against the things that come against us, but the devil.  So I'm going to suit up with the armor of God ...and having done all, to stand (Eph. 6:13b). 

Think on These Things: The Silver Hanger for Modest Formal Wear!

Philippians 4:8     Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things (NIV).


Well, this is our final week of the modest formal wear series.  I hope that we've given you an idea of just how many options you have available in the way of modest gowns for your upcoming formal occasion. 

We're ending the series with a company that is actually in the Southeast Texas region, so if you're in the area, you might be able to visit the store!

I'm talking about The Silver Hanger.  Located in Katy, TX which is north of Houston, they offer modest wedding and formal dresses for every occasion.  Owned and operated by Deborah Thompson, The Silver Hanger is a unique shop that specializes in dresses which are often hard to find, such as dresses with sleeves, plus size dresses, white formal dresses, Mother/Grandmother of the bride, and consignment dresses.

While they do not sell online, due to manufacturer agreements, they post pictures online to allow you to pre-shop.  They sell "off the rack," but given enough time, they can place orders for your perfect dress.  

So, without further ado, let's look at what's available!  Here are a few of my favorites, click on the link above each picture for more info:

BOM3209

I find this dress really eye-catching!  I can't tell you much about fabrics, but it is obviously floor-length, with wide straps at the top.  I love the details around the skirt of the dress and over the shoulder.  It is pictured here in Aqua, and available in the store in a size 6, however other colors and sizes may be available to order.







BMDP9122M

This beautiful dress is also floor-length, with cap sleeves and beautiful detailing under the bust.  You need to check this one out on her website because the material is wrapped beautifully around the bodice.  This fresh, youthful dress is in stock in the colors shown and in sizes 0, 16, and 18 in Navy and 2 in the red. 




Landa M733

I think this dress combines traditional elegance with a little modern flair.  The floor-length skirt has a few interesting tucks and folds, the waist is set off with a bow, and the bodice is a simple, but flattering silhouette, with slightly off the shoulder "sleeves."  It is in stock in the color Barberry, size 10.  Other colors and styles may be available for order.







BMDPR128M

This elegant dress has a floor-length skirt, cap sleeves, rouching around the bodice, and details along the neckline and at the waist.  It is in stock in Emerald, and in size 14.  It's a lovely, classic formal gown.









BOM3252

I really love the silhouette of this dress!  It has nice, wide straps with detailing on the shoulder, a wrapped bodice with delicate details there as well, and an elegantly layered, floor length skirt.  In stock it is available in Coral, size 10.  Check with Deborah for other colors and sizes.








And, for those of you who want a shorter prom dress, here are a few of your options:

MYM3325

This is just one example of many cute, shorter dresses that can be made more modest with a short jacket.  They have a wide array of jackets available at The Silver Hanger.  This particular dress is available in Turquoise/Black with a black waistband, offset with a rose.  For the many other options available, check out the website.

This particular dress had no link available, I found it on their Facebook page.  It is a tea-length dress, shown in Black/Gray/White, and in varying shades of pink.  The empire waist is off-set with a thin bow.  It has cap sleeves, and is just a pretty, modest dress

Cute!  And unique!  I found this dress on their facebook page, also.  It has a tea-length bubble skirt.  The bodice is overlaid with lace.  It has a curving empire waist with delicate detailing at the bust, a v-neck, and cap sleeves.  I think it looks even cuter with the hairstyles the models are sporting!



Here's another cute, short dress that becomes party-appropriate when you add the jacket.  It's got a super cute pattern on the overlaying material, and I always like hot pink and black.  Once again, there are many other styles that you can pair with a jacket for a stylish and modest option, so check them out!

In addition to the variety of dresses, they have a wide range of jackets as well.



So, check out The Silver Hanger!  They have all sorts of accessories available.  While you're looking around, check out their facebook page and blog.  For more information, feel free to call the store at:  (281)-392-9990 or email them at:  thesilverhanger@sbcglobal.net. 

If you're planning a trip, here's a map of their location.  The address is:

5423 E. 5th Street

Katy, TX 77493

Well, ladies, that's it!  I hope you've enjoyed this series as much as me.  If you make the trip to Katy, tell us how it went!  Good luck with your dress shopping, and may your formal occasions be blessed, safe, and God honoring. 

Think on These Things: Try A Formal Choice for your Modest Gown!

Philippians 4:8     Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things (NIV).


I hope that you've enjoyed exploring the wide array of beautiful and modest gowns out there with me.  For week three, I'm thrilled to share the dresses from A Formal Choice.  They are located in Puyallup, Washington, but they'll gladly ship to your location.

Naomi, owner of A Formal Choice, started her business 10 years ago while working with the youth at her church.  She encouraged the girls to wear modest formals to their dances, and heard their complaints that modest formals were almost non-existent. She started the business to help girls out there searching for things to wear which uphold their personal standards.

Here's what one customer has to say about her purchase from A Formal Choice: 

Just a note to say 'Thank you' for your excellent service and the exceptional quality of the dress that I ordered from you a couple of months ago. The dress is beautiful, well-crafted, and elegant; your
service was prompt and very reliable. I appreciate the dresses that you make and sell that allow young ladies to have modest options when they have a dressy function to attend.  I hope to have opportunities to purchase from you in the future.
Again, thank you very much! Keep up the good work.

K.W.
Henderson, Texas

And now, on to the dresses!  Here are a few of my favorites:

TP22 Nina Prom  $262

This is an adorable ball gown of Aurora Taffeta with a fitted upper bodice and contrasting trim and bow.  It comes in pink/black, tiffany/black, or black/ivory.













TP52 Jennifer 2 $338

This elegant gown has a square cut neck, is made of silky taffeta, and has elegant beading around the bodice and on the gathers throughout the skirt.  The back laces up beautifully!  It is available in the following colors:  Aqua, Fuchsia, Iris, Deep Sapphire, and Emerald. 










TP 30 Tiffany Prom  $328

This slim A- Line skirt of Aurora Taffeta has beaded embroidery at the empire waist (a favorite feature of mine), petal sleeves and lace up back.  You need to check this one out on the website, because the back view is lovely!  It laces up in the back, and the material is swept elegantly to one side.  It comes in the colors brick, carrot, and turquoise. 









TP 13 Blair Prom  $372

One of their most popular prom dresses,  it is made of Aurora taffeta. It includes elegant beading & embroidery around the neckline and petal sleeves with a side sweep. There are three large beaded appliqués at the rear skirt and one at the hip front. It has an elegant, lace-up back, and is worth looking at on her website because it's just as beautiful in back as in front.  










M622-January

I love this unique gown!  Although shown in pink, it's available in any Aurora taffeta color.  It has a Queen Anne collar, with a trumpet designed skirt, and a sweetheart neckline.  The rouching around the bodice makes it flattering to the figure. 











Here are some examples of her lovely short dresses:
TM598

This super fun party dress has a square neckline and a layered, bubble skirt.  It is available in any silky taffeta color, but she recommends darker colors.  From Venus Bridal.












M611

This dress  has a knee length straight rouched skirt, finished with tulip sleeves and zipper back.  It is shown in teal, but is available in any Aurora taffeta color. 











Felini  $98

This modest party dress has a layered tulle skirt, a square neckline, and a
satin ribbon at the waist.  It is available in red, hot pink, and purple, and in
sizes 3, 5, 11, and 13.












MB5662  $74

The black chiffon overlay is a beautiful contrast to the bright satin colors in this dress.  It has a draped sleeve and a rosette under the bustline.  Besides the pink shown here it is available in teal and lilac, and in sizes 5,7,9, and 11. 













As always, there are many more to look at on her website.  She has a size chart  along with measurement information, and a color chart for fabrics.  There are several dresses currently on sale as well, if you're looking for a deal.  (She has dresses as low as $29!)  Make sure you check out her page on how to purchase one of her lovely dresses. 


If you still haven't found something you like, no worries, because her new dresses for 2012 will be arriving in mid to late February. 

I hope you enjoy!  See you next week to wrap up this series. 

Start With What's On Hand

Exodus 4:1-2     Then Moses answered and said, "But suppose they will not believe me or listen to my voice; suppose they say, 'The LORD has not appeared to you.' "  So the LORD said to him, "What is that in your hand?"...(NKJV)


Have you ever felt called to do something for God's kingdom?  Have you ever felt God leading you to do something that seemed, well . . . crazy?  If so, I have an idea of what you're feeling, I've been both places, myself.

During these times, we're faced with our biggest enemy:  self-doubt.  We size ourselves up, compare ourselves to others and think, Why would God want to use me?  I'm nobody!  I've got nothing special to give, and who would want to listen to me, anyway?  It's so easy to psych ourselves out, and to give up before we even get started. 

If it's any consolation, you're not alone.  Even Moses doubted his abilities when God called him to deliver the Israelites from Pharaoh in Egypt.  He offered up every possible excuse to the Lord:  "Who am I?" (3:11) "Who shall I say sent me?" (3:13) Finally, in verse 2 of chapter 4 he says "What if they doubt my authority?" 

Then God did something amazing.  He took the ordinary shepherd's staff in Moses' hand and turned it into a serpent when Moses cast it to the ground.  Was there anything magical about the staff?  No, but the God who formed the heavens and the earth decided to use that staff for His purposes.  Did the miracle have anything to do with Moses?  No, but the staff belonged to Moses, and the miracle occurred when Moses obeyed God's command. 

This must have been a pretty frightening event, and likely a particularly terrifying snake because the Bible says that Moses fled from it.  Then God asked him to do something that went contrary to everything he knew about poisonous creatures, "Reach out your hand and take it by the tail."  If I were Moses, I'd be thinking, WHAT?!?!  However, as he reached out in obedience, the snake turned back into a rod in his hand (4:4)

Doing the work of God can be scary at times.  It almost always takes us out of our comfort zone, requires us to talk to people that make us uncomfortable, and sometimes involves taking a stand when we'd rather hang back and pretend we're invisible.  It might involve standing up to bullies at school, or standing up for your beliefs in the classroom.  Whatever the circumstance, it will feel to a certain degree like taking a poisonous snake by the tail.  We want to cringe at the very thought; expecting to be bitten at any moment.  But when a child of God is surrendered to the work of God, miracles occur! 

My favorite part of these verses?  Exodus 4:2, "What is that in your hand?" and again in 4:4, "and he reached out his hand and caught it, and it became a rod in his hand."  Although God gave Moses the direction, God gave Moses the staff, the message, and the opportunity to obey, the miracle occurred through Moses' hand!  If we surrender to God's service, He will do amazing things through our hand.  How awesome is that?

If God is calling you to do a work for him, don't be hindered by self-doubt.  Every excuse you can find about your qualifications is completely correct; you are flawed, you aren't good enough, but it doesn't matter.  We come to Jesus for salvation "Just as we are," and we should surrender to His service "Just as we are."  God will make you qualified through His strength and power. 

The humble shepherd's staff of Moses was to be used for many miracles throughout his ministry.  It came to represent the seal of God's authority.  So, what is that in your hand?  What are you currently doing?  Where do you live?  With whom to you associate day by day?  God has work for you to do, amazing work for His kingdom, and He wants to start with what you have on hand. 

Have a great week, God bless, and get busy!

source:  Dr. J. Vernon McGee Commentaries

Think on These Things: Modest Prom Dresses from Kathleen's Bridal and Formal!

Philippians 4:8     Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things (NIV).



Welcome back!  This is week two of our series on modest formal wear and today I have the privilege of sharing with you the beautiful dresses available from Kathleen's Bridal and Formal.  I had a wonderful time browsing through her wide assortment of lovely dresses, and I'm sure you will as well!

Kathleen Clifford, owner of Kathleen's Bridal, is a strong supporter of modesty and strong moral values.  She has been in business since 1992, and has created her own line of exclusively modest gowns.  Here is a brief glimpse into her story: 

In 1992, Kathleen Clifford was working full time during the day and part time in the evenings and on weekends designing and sewing gowns for young women. The love of her life had always been in textiles and fashion design and she was wearing out trying to work both jobs. With the support of her family she quit her full time job and opened up her first business, "Kathleen's Elegant Gowns". The small salon was actually a home based business. The first gowns she had in the shop were dresses she designed and made. After a very short time, it became evident that she would need to purchase gowns from other sources in order to have enough inventory to satisfy her clients' needs. A quick trip to market to purchase more gowns and she was now formally in business . . . Kathleen spent many hours searching for answers as to whether or not she should carry only modest gowns. Up to that time she had spent timeless hours negotiating with vendors to get them to provide modesty options for her clients.  Finally the decision was made that Kathleen would design a line of modest prom gowns with no need to alter the dresses for modesty. The process began slowly but was welcomed by our clients with a huge success when the dresses arrived. After receiving such a positive reception to the new modest collection the decision was made to only carry modest gowns. This also carried over into the Bridal line, and our bridesmaid collections. 

Kathleen's mission is to assist women in dressing modestly.  She believes that women of all ages radiate their inner beauty as they look and feel beautiful in a modest gown. 

Kathleen's Bridal and Formal is located in Kaysville, Utah, but she ships nationally and internationally.  Here are a few of the lovely dresses which caught my eye.  For more information, feel free to click on the link above each picture:

A-AGK1103

This modest prom gown is a beautiful tulle and taffeta ballgown. The bodice has delicate beading throughout and petal sleeves.  It is available in sizes 2-16, and in the colors Honey Suckle Rose, Turquoise, and Bright Green. 







A-AGK1114

This taffeta print gown has a pleated waist, petal sleeves and a lace-up back. The foil print in taffeta is one of her very favorite prints ever! The gown is available in Red/white, Blue/white and Black/white, and in sizes 2-16.  You really need to check out this link, because the back of the dress is beautiful!  (I really like the hair-do's as well.  Great inspiration for prom!) 

A-AGK1130

This is a beautiful taffeta ballgown with a glitter floral print in the skirt. the bodice has soft metallic roses and a pleated waist.   Again, check out the close up photos on the website because this dress has beautiful details!  It is available in sizes 2-16 and in the colors Jade/Silver, Rose/Silver, and Purple/Silver.






A-AGK135

 Can you tell I'm partial to long dresses?  This is a taffeta gown with lots of asymmetrical tucks and folds. The bodice has rouching around the neckline and sleeve and then in the middle of the dress a beautiful bead work pattern.  It is available in sizes 2-28, and currently in the colors pewter, burgundy, and dark green.






AGK-111

A fully sequined short modest prom dress with a satin ruffle at the hem and a ruched waistline.  The dress has comfortable petal sleeves and a circular skirt.  This super cute dress is available online only.  Contact Kathleen for sizes and color availability.  Normally available in Silver, Black, and Red.

AGK-5955

This is a fun and flirty modest short prom gown.  The fitted body of the dress is made with tiny pleats all the way down to the full tulle skirt.  The dress has a lace up back and delicate beading throughout.  The dress is available in Navy blue, Red, and Gold.  This is an online-only dress, so contact Kathleen for available colors and sizes.

AGK-131

A fun bubble skirt with tucks throughout makes this the perfect gown for your dance.  The bodice is figure flattering with the gentle pleating and drop waist.  The sash is removable and the dress can be worn with or without it.  The Taffeta skirt has a layer of tulle on top of it for a unique look and texture to the dress.  Available only online, so check for sizing and color availability.  Normally comes in Black/Red, Black/Green, and Black/Blue. 

There are many other beautiful gowns to choose from, so check out her entire prom collection and see for yourself!  By the way, her new line of gowns will be available in February, so check back for even more options.  You can shop for gowns by fabric, price, or style on her website.  Kathleen also carries a wide variety of accessories to compliment your dress.  If you'd like to see her gowns in "action," check out these real-life prom pictures.  She also has a facebook and a blog with lots of helpful hints and tips.  Finally, if you'd like to hear what her customers have to say, read some of her testimonials.

One last tidbit before we go:  This is a video of a fashion show "Prom Fest 2009" highlighting Kathleen's beautiful prom gowns:

I hope you enjoy shopping as much as I did.  See you next week! 

All Life is Sacred . . . Including Yours

Psalm 139:14     I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well (NKJV).  

Just in case you didn't know this, January is Sanctity of Human Life month.  During this month, we remember the Roe vs. Wade decision that occurred 39 years ago, and try to spread the message of how precious human life is, all human life.

However, that's not the point I wish to make today.  God laid another aspect of this glorious verse on my heart.  If you are anything like me, you probably agree that God considers all life sacred; the unborn, the elderly, the poor, and the disadvantaged.  But, do you ever find yourself doubting your own value?

As a teenager, a college student, and even as a young married woman, I was able to see the value in others, but was terribly critical of myself.  As I looked in the mirror, every perceived flaw seemed to scream out at me.  I didn't like to look at pictures of myself. The aspects of my face and figure which made me unique, I saw as faults.  When preparing to go out, I would try on outfit after outfit, my frustration growing as each one was rejected, and end up throwing a fit.  I would yell, call myself names, and throw the offending clothes to the floor.

It was rather ironic that on one hand, I offered acceptance to others, while completely rejecting myself.  My husband would get angry at me, and tell me "not to talk about his wife that way."  I thought he just didn't understand, or was trying to shut me up.  These outbursts occurred less and less over time, but the underlying attitude remained.

But when I was expecting my first child, something changed in me.  God spoke to me in a way that I'll never forget.  As I was getting ready one morning, God spoke to my heart.  He said, "April, do you think your mother is pretty?"  Of course I did!  I remember watching my mother put on her makeup in the morning and admiring how beautiful she looked.  God then said, "How would it make you feel as a child to hear your mother say some of the things that you say about yourself?"  It knocked the breath out of me.  I knew exactly what I'd feel.  I would have thought, If my lovely mother thinks that she's ugly, then I must be really ugly! Then God asked me, "Do you want your child carrying around such feelings?"  The answer was, absolutely NOT!

Then God began to show me, detail by detail, that all the things I hated about myself were things that set me apart from others.  He made me unique not only in abilities and talents, but also in appearance.  I was hand-crafted by the God of the universe, and who was I to criticize His masterpiece?

As I reached the end of my pregnancy and nothing seemed to fit, I had to buy more clothing, which was never something I enjoyed.  I tried on maternity outfit after maternity outfit, and nothing worked.  Finally my husband said "stay in the dressing room, I'll look for clothes for you."  In the next few minutes, clothing was handed over my door.  Each outfit I tried on fit me!  With each success, my stress level dropped, the tears dried, and my hurt began to heal.  Finally, he offered me one last piece of clothing.  It was a long-sleeved T-shirt, delicately designed, with the word "Beautiful" emblazoned upon the front. 

I was finally able to see myself the way my husband saw me.  I was his, and he thought I was beautiful just the way I was, even at 8 months pregnant.  It truly hurt him to hear someone criticize the one he loved, even if it came from her own lips.  I apologized to him, and asked him to help me stop tearing myself down.

Why am I sharing my painful experience with you?  Because I know that many of you struggle with image issues just like me.  We allow the same serpent that whispered to Eve, to whisper lies into our hearts.  We might be able to see the beauty in others, but we fall for the lie that we are somehow not included in the "fearfully and wonderfully made" equation.

If all life is valuable, then so is mine, and so is yours.  God takes delight in our differences, just as I take delight in the differences between my own children.  You were not meant to be a cookie-cutter image of someone else.  You were uniquely designed in form, mind, and abilities.  You were so designed to complete unique plans and purposes, set by God, Himself.  Marvelous are all His works, so don't let the world or the devil tell you otherwise.