Hearts on Fire and Beauty from Ashes

     This is a follow-up on my last post (Princess Cut, May 24, 2023).  I strongly suggest reading it first.  I actually plan to write a more in-depth post on spiritual abuse coming up very soon, so if that interests you more, you can just wait for that, but if you are interested in my follow-up to the courtship movie Princess Cut, please read on (you can still read my upcoming post on spiritual abuse if you read this!). 

     I decided to finish the series and watch the whole Princess Cut trilogy, and felt I needed to interact with them as well.  

    The second movie, Princess Cut 2, Hearts on Fire, was a very pleasant surprise.  If you read my last post, you read a critique.  This one was much more enjoyable to me, and I only really have a few small criticisms.  Part of it was that this movie wasn't about courtship (a controversial topic!).  The characters in this movie had better chemistry.  Like the first one, the score and cinematography were beautiful.  

     This movie opens with Grace (from the first movie), now a wife to Clint Masters, and working as a nurse in his free clinic (which is having financial troubles).  We are reintroduced to Grace's brother Robert (the older of her two younger brothers), who is now married to a woman named Lauren.  This story centers more on Robert and Lauren.  Lauren is expecting their first child.  Robert is very committed to working on the family farm.  Lauren owns a successful store in town, and wants to expand.  We sadly learn that Grace and Robert's father passed away two years before this story starts, and it is implied that he died from working too hard on the farm.  We don't know how much time has passed from the first movie, but Grace and Clint have a daughter named Paige, who appears to be at least five or six.  The farm isn't doing too well.  It is in terrible debt, and Robert has postponed his completion of college to help.  Grace and Roberts youngest brother, Drew, is in college now, and he reveals that he changed his major from Agriculture to English lit, and that he has no plans to return to farm life.  This can be a real blow to the farm.  Lauren is frustrated by the family's strong ties to the farm, and her mother-in-law's stubborn insistence it never be sold or let go.  

     Tessa (Grace's kind of mean friend from the first movie) calls and invites her and Lauren over.  They learn that she is living with her wealthy boyfriend Devon in a very well-to-do lifestyle.  She has just moved in with him.  Grace decides to make her a "house warming" gift, a plaque with a Bible verse on it.  She keeps it at the clinic until she has the chance to give it to her friend.

     Then, tragedy strikes.  A tornado hits.  Grace and her daughter Paige are at the clinic when this happens, and grace gets trapped under some rubble.  She urges Paige to run home to safety, which she does.  The rest of the family has all gone to the cellar on the farm, and are safely underground.  Paige makes it to them, and they wait out the storm.  

     A montage (which I had to watch a couple of times, because it was confusing) reveals that Grace was killed in the tornado.  That kind of shocked me.  I wasn't expecting that.  Grace was the only casualty in the town.  Eventually, in their grief, Clint and Paige head to Colorado for a while and are not seen again until the end. 

     Tessa is devastated by her friends' death.  There is a touching scene where she and Catherine (Grace's mother) embrace and cry together.  Tessa also discovers she is pregnant.

     Catherine goes to search through the rubble at the clinic, and finds the plaque Grace had made for Tessa.  Not knowing it was for Tessa, but recognizing it as Grace's work, she takes it as a gift from God to her.  Lauren sees it, and gently tells her it was intended for Tessa.  Catherine grudgingly allows Lauren to take it to her, and you see the beginning's of tension between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law.  We also learn the farm is destroyed, and Catherine moves in with Robert and Lauren.

     Tessa tells Devon she is pregnant, and he becomes very upset, so she quickly tells him she was kidding, and just wanted to see his reaction.  However, she does reveal her pregnancy to him shortly after, and he gives her a choice--the baby or him.  

     Lauren brings the plaque to Tessa.  Tessa, having just lost her friend and now facing the choice between her baby and Devon, is angry and hostile at first, but eventually breaks down, and she and Lauren hug.  Lauren discovers Tessa's pregnancy, and, being pregnant herself, they have a bond over being pregnant together.

     We see Catherine becoming more and more unsettled, and taking over more and more of Robert and Lauren's home.  

     Lauren's store is a success, and she wants to expand with a second location.  Robert is hesitant, but says yes, and Lauren hires Tessa to help her.  Their friendship starts to really take off.

     Lauren collapses at one point, and is taken to the hospital, but she and the baby are said to be fine, and that she probably just and a blood pressure spike.  She and Robert see their baby on ultrasound.  

     There is another montage, this one just showing happiness for everyone.  Things are on an upward swing.  

     After this happy montage, Catherine is seen breaking down, really not coping well with having lost her home and daughter.  She is determined that they rebuild their farm and keep it going.  Robert determines to fulfill his mother's wishes.  Lauren is frustrated by this.  Tessa encourages Lauren to find out what the farm is actually worth, which she does.  She discovers it might be worth millions, which, if they sold it, could relieve a lot of the family's hardships.  

     Tessa goes home to discover another woman in the house.  Her name is Marisa ("with one S").  It is determined she is Devon's new girlfriend.  Tessa angrily leaves, not sure where to go or what to do.  

     While Lauren is home with Robert and Catherine, the land developer she had talked to about the farm's worth stops by with additional info,  This upsets Catherine, and a family argument ensues.  Lauren collapses again, and this time miscarries their baby. This is shown with a short montage, though, so again, it was hard to figure out what was happening.  In the aftermath of this, Lauren has a mental breakdown and orders Catherine out of her home, and screams at her husband she can't take it anymore, and begins packing a suitcase, but she collapses in his arms, and he comforts her.  Lauren apologize to Catherine for how she spoke to her, and Catherine demonstrates great compassion and understanding.  The two women are able to grieve together the losses of their children.  It is a very touching scene that had me in tears.

     As Lauren heals, she tries to connect with Tessa, but discovers she has left Devon.  Tessa eventually finds Lauren at the store, and she expresses how selfish she feels being hurt by Devon when Lauren had a much worse pain of miscarriage.  Lauren says a line I love, "We're not graded on our pain."  The two maintain their friendship.

     Robert still says he is giving up on college, but urges Lauren to pursue that second store location.  He gives a very sweet speech that basically tells Lauren, "Whether I'm in my dream job or not, whether we have ten children or none, God has blessed me beyond my wildest dreams, because I have you."  They determine to follow after the Lord together.  

     They invite Tessa to stay with them, which she accepts.  

     The movie ends with yet another montage of Lauren writing a letter (that had me in tears) to her baby in Heaven.  We are shown that Clint and Paige return, and a new clinic opens, named after Grace.  We are shown that Tessa had her baby.  

     This was a powerful film with real, deep emotion (whereas in the first movie, the emotions felt forced).  This movie showed raw pain, and the characters holding onto their faith, whereas the first one was more didactic.  As a sequel, it may be one of the best I've ever seen (aside from the Back to the Future sequels, of course!).  My only complaint is all the montages to get the harder points across, because it made it unclear what was happening.  It could have explained better.  

     Princess Cut 3, Beauty from Ashes focuses more on Tessa.  The movie opens with Tessa working as a waitress.  She is very stressed, having her boss on her case, and getting customer's orders wrong.  Her boss has a talk with her that her single-mom schedule is affecting her work, and she needs to do better.  We learn that she now has an apartment for herself and her baby boy Ian.  She goes home to her son and the babysitter, and they witness a neighbor beating his girlfriend.  Tessa reports it to the police.  At first, she is hesitant to make a statement, but she does.  The man is tried, but is let off.  Tessa is afraid she is in danger.  In the process, she gets to know the police officer involved, Mike Coleman.  He ends up asking her out, and they start spending time together.  He also helps her get a graphic design job that helps her financially.  He shares with Tessa that he arrested the police chief's son for domestic violence, even with the department pressuring him to let it go.  He has suffered for this.  He also shares with her about how he let a man go who ended up causing an accident, killing a woman and child, and how he carries that guilt.  

     Drew is back on the farm after all.  He is interested in the girl next door, Ariana.  She works with Tessa at the restaurant, and plays the guitar and sings.  Drew gets her a new guitar, and they seem to have a rapport and chemistry. It builds throughout the movie.  Toward the end of the movie, Ariana reveals she is hoping to go to a music school in another part of the country.  Drew is distraught at the idea of her leaving, and proposes to her.  She rejects his proposal, and he is devastated.  

     Lauren and Robert are in this movie, and Lauren is pregnant again.  She and Tessa are still close, and when Tessa confesses to Lauren that she isn't sure if Mike is her type, Lauren tells her, "The person you marry becomes your soulmate."  I love that line.  Lauren is given the best lines in this whole trilogy (and she's only in two of the movies.  Maybe she's what was missing from the first one!)

     We learn the man who beat up his girlfriend is getting out of jail, and Tessa is in danger.  She is trying to get into a new apartment, but can't until the graphic design job pays, and they end up going under and unable to pay.  

     While Mike is watching Ian, they go to the store to get snacks, and a young man tries to shoplift.  Mike wrestles him to the ground and stops him.  He is arrested.  Tessa is furious that he went into action like that with her son there. worried she could have endangered him.  They have a fight, and Tessa tells him to leave.

     The man who was arrested for beating his girlfriend on Tessa's testimony runs into her, and threatens her.  She tells him he isn't a good man, and God sees who he really is.  He tells her not to preach at him, and she responds, "I wouldn't know how, but I know you're not a good man."  The encounter ends, but later, he is outside Tessa's apartment making trouble, when Mike shows up and tries to stop him.  He beats Mike up, and Tessa discovers Mike unconscious and bloody on her doorstep.  He is taken the hospital, in critical condition.  In his car was a bouquet of flowers for Tessa, and an engagement ring. 

     Tessa goes to Mike's bedside in the hospital and prays, begging for understanding.  The next morning, Tessa goes to the hospital to see him again, and an orderly is stripping his bed, leading the viewer to think he is dead, but it turns out he is fine, in a wheelchair.  He proposes to Tessa in the hospital, and she accepts.  Until the wedding, she will live with Catherine.  There is a sweet friendship scene with Tessa and Lauren, after which Lauren goes into labor.  The next scene is her holding her baby boy, with Robert's arms around them both.  

     Ariana's audition for the music school goes better than expected, and Catherine urges Drew to congratulate her.  They talk about having wisdom in relationships.  Catherine tells him "God's best is worth waiting for."  

     Ariana sings at Mike and Tessa's wedding.  Tessa is a beautiful bride.  Mike makes a vow to father Ian, and then vows to be a godly husband to Tessa.  When you see how far Tessa has come since the first movie, it's very touching.  

     Drew looks longingly at Ariana at the reception.  Tessa tells him he'll have his turn one day.  The credits begin to roll.  Drew's story with Ariana is not wrapped up, which makes me wonder if they are making another movie.  I kine of hope so now.  This third movie was very good.  Tessa is a very likable character by this time.  It made me feel bad for how much I disliked her in the first one!  The things that happened were a little predictable (guy and girl fall for each other, become vulnerable, then a conflict/breakup, a disaster, and when it's almost too late, a reconciliation), but it's still a very good story.  

     On this series as a whole: they are virtuous with enduring characters (especially if you can make it past the first film).  In the first movie, you really do like Mr. and Mrs. Anderson.  They are sweet people.  It is sad when you find out Mr. Anderson is deceased in the second movie.  Even though Grace was hard for me to relate to, it was hard to see her die in the second movie.  I think Lauren and Robert's story was a lot more natural and real than Grace and Clint's.  And Tessa and Mike's story is the most raw and real, one of true redemption.  These movies are about Christian people who have Christian ideals, but the Gospel isn't clearly presented.  You know that Tessa doesn't seem Christian early on, but by the end of the third movie, she is a professing Christian, but you don't really see a salvation experience, which makes it confusing and vague.  They could have made that clearer.  I recommend this series, though, as I said, the first one is kind of a doozie.  By recommending it, I don't take back my review of the first one!  

     

Princess Cut

  I recently watched the 2015 movie Princess Cut, which is actually the first in a trilogy.  I may or may not watch the other two movies, but I needed to sort of interact with the first one.  Not only will I be reviewing a movie for its own sake.  I will be reviewing the idea put forth in it about what constitutes biblical courtship.

     The first scene is a young man digging a hole.  The viewer doesn’t know what he is doing, but has an idea it contributes to the story later.

 

     Grace Anderson is a college-aged girl, living with her parents and two younger brothers on their North Carolina farm.  She talks about taking an interior design class, so we can assume she is in college of some sort (presumably online, as she is never shown going to classes in the movie).  She doesn’t appear to have a job.  She has been seeing her boyfriend Stewart for exactly fifteen months. The movie starts with Grace and her best friend Tessa in a jewelry store, looking at rings.  It doesn’t explain why they’re there.  The jeweler takes an interest in Grace, and tells her the ring she is looking at is a Princess Cut diamond, worth $12,000 (AKA a small new car or a very nice used car, a down payment on a house, or a very expensive honeymoon.  $12,000 is more than my wedding and honeymoon cost, combined, and our honeymoon was two weeks at Lake Havasu). 

 

     As Grace and Tessa leave, Tessa teases Grace about the attractive jeweler liking her, telling her that until Stewart puts a ring on her finger, she should think of herself as free.  Grace says she is sure Stewart is going to propose that night at dinner.  We learn that Stewart and Grace have had a long-distance relationship, and he has been away at college. 

 

     We meet Grace’s family, and see her parents have some reservation about Stewart, but Grace doesn’t share their misgivings.  She is a girl in love!  When her mother asks what she loves about Stewart, Grace replies that he’s “cute, fun and smart.”  Not a lot of depth to that answer.  She dresses up very nicely and waits for her Romeo to come get her.  He seems to be late.  He finally calls and asks her to meet him at the diner.  Grace’s parents seem concerned that Stewart isn’t willing to have dinner with them all as a family.  Grace’s father says she is too emotionally attached to Stewart. 

 

     Grace arrives at the diner, and is greeted by Stewart’s loud and rowdy friends—a mix of boys and girls from his college.  Stewart pays no attention to Grace, acting obnoxious with his buddies, and then announces he is engaged to one of the other girls at the table, and all the other college friends cheer.  Grace leaves, devastated.  This whole scene confused me.  If Stewart was her steady boyfriend, he should have at least acted somewhat ashamed that he had gotten a new girlfriend without telling her.  He should have said something like.  “Look, I know this is awkward, but we’re though.  I should have told you.  I’m sorry.”  But he just acts like this is normal.  Some of the reviewers on Amazon suggested that maybe they were never an item, and she just hung onto him, but he saw her as a friend. That is possible, but then, Stewart never even treated her like a friend in this scene, so I don’t know.  Since she says they were an item, I would guess they were.  She refers to them taking dates in the past, and she even refers to him checking out other girls on their most recent date.  We can conclude that Stewart is just a jerk. 

 

     Grace returns home, grieved.  Her parents tell her it sounds like God kept her from a real disaster, and suggest they play monopoly together.  Yeah, that’s a great cure for heartbreak.  Grace literally believed she was about to become engaged, and her heart is broken, and they just play monopoly to help her process this.  They mean well, but it seems disingenuous. 

 

      While they are playing, Grace’s middle brother, Robert asks their father if there is one perfect person out there for everyone, that they’re supposed to find.  Their father says it isn’t about finding the right person as much as becoming the right person.  I can agree with that statement. 

 

     Grace’s littlest brother Drew had overheard her telling her parents about what happened between her and Stewart, and he puts out an ad for someone to come take her, adding that she is pretty and makes good macaroni and cheese.  Several very odd, cartoonish characters show up at their door, and her father sends all of them away.  I call them cartoonish because they are outside the realm of normal men.  They are as weird as cartoon characters.  They also contribute nothing further to the plot.  It was supposed to be comic relief, but it really fell flat. 

 

     Meanwhile, a new neighbor moves in down the road, an attractive young doctor (age 28, he tells them) named Clint Masters.  He is the man we saw at the beginning digging the hole.  The Anderson family befriends him, inviting him to church, and welcoming him to the community. 

 

     A blonde young woman is seen looking for Clint Masters, and is given the information that he has recently started a practice, and is given the location.  She smiles.  At this point, the viewer doesn’t know who she is.

 

     Grace is still struggling with what happened with Stewart.  She meets a familiar face at the coffee shop.  It is the jeweler from the earlier scene.  He switched jobs.  He makes it clear he is interested in Grace, and she takes the bait pretty quickly.  We learn his name is Jared.  

     Jared tries to kiss her, and she tells him not until he puts a Princess Cut diamond on her left ring finger.  So we are led to believe she won’t kiss until she’s at least engaged (possibly married?), and that an acceptable engagement ring has to be a Princess Cut (the $12,000 one at the beginning).  Jared slowly breaks her down, and their relationship becomes a little more physical than she feels good with. 

     Grace pours out her heart to Tessa, who tells her she is overreacting, but since Grace is struggling so much, Tessa refers her to her mother’s psychologist.  Grace has one free session with her, and this psychologist ends up being a total joke.  Like the cartoonish men who answered the newspaper ad, this woman is outside the realm of normal.  She doesn’t really question Grace enough to get to the bottom of why she is struggling.  She tells Grace she should just move in with Jared.  This is unrealistic advice.  A real counselor—even a non-Christian--would never just say that.  For one thing, Jared hasn’t even offered to have Grace cohabitate with him.  For another, this counselor didn't even try to help Grace understand why she is uncomfortable with the physical aspect of her relationship with Jared.  Grace doesn’t agree with the advice given, and she leaves the session early.

 

     Grace’s little brother Drew ends up ruining a project she is working on for her class.  She is furious with him, and chases him outside.  He ends up getting hit by a truck in front of their house.  Clint Masters is nearby, and he (being a doctor) does a quick examination on him and pronounces him fine (not totally realistic, as a real doctor would still say he should go to the hospital for an examination after being hit by a motor vehicle).  Grace is very emotional that her brother could have been hurt.  She goes inside crying, but when her mother asks what is wrong, she doesn’t mention her brother’s accident.  She confesses that she and Jared have been kissing. 

 

     In the midst of all of this, Graces’ parents feel convicted that they should be giving her more guidance in the dating department, and that her father should vet any suitors that come along.  After a frustrating break-up with Jared, Grace gets on board with this courtship model. 

 

    There is a montage scene showing Grace reading all these Christian courtship books.  The main one you can see is When God Writes Your Love Story, by Eric and Leslie Ludy (I read that one many years ago, and I’ll comment later).

 

     Tessa crosses paths with Clint Masters, and develops a crush on him.  She tells Grace about this cute guy, and Grace just says, “You can have him,” not knowing or caring who it is.

 

     Clint Masters (who has shown no interest in Grace up to this point) approaches the Andersons and asks their permission to court Grace with marriage in mind.  The father gives his blessing.  When Clint pursues Grace, she says she wants to, but needs her father’s blessing, which Clint is happy to assure her he already has.  There has been no romance or even a hint of romance between them, so this seemed awkward. 

 

     Tessa discovers that Grace is being courted by Clint (whom she considers her man) and she becomes furious with Grace for “Stealing my man!”  In a later scene, she apologizes to Grace for overreacting, but Grace says it’s her fault too.  How, exactly?  I don’t get it. 

 

     The blonde girl who was looking for Clint shows up.  Her name is Brooke, and it turns out she was Clint’s old girlfriend from back home.  He considers them ancient history.  We learn that he bought her a ring, but never gave it to her, because he knew it wasn’t right.  He buried the ring (which we saw at the very beginning, not knowing what it was at the time), and intends to dig it up for the right girl.  He tells this to Grace’s father, who accepts this.  But Grace’s family still awkwardly allow Brooke to stay under their roof.  During a party they have with their neighbors to celebrate their harvest, Brooke tries to get Clint back.  Jared also shows up, and becomes somewhat predatory of Grace.  Clint rescues her in a very dramatic fight scene (two men fighting over the same woman--how original).  Grace’s parents show up at the end of the fight and order Jared to leave and never return.  They tell Brooke to leave as well, and she replies, “I’m not leaving until I get what I came for!” Meaning Clint.  So pathetic and dramatic.  When it is clear Clint is over her, she changes her tune and leaves. 

 

     Clint also leaves, and it wasn’t really clear as to why.  He just rescued her from Jared, so he’s a hero.  But he just leaves, as if he’s ashamed or embarrassed. Grace worries she lost him.  She sends him an email, thanking him for defending her against Jared, telling him she respects him, and that she wants to be complete in Christ, whether He brings them together or not.  A scene shows Clint digging up the ring he buried at the beginning.  The family has a picnic, and Clint shows up (it turns out he and her father planned this), and presents her the ring.  You guessed it, it is a Princess Cut diamond.  Grace has no problem wearing a ring originally intended for another woman.  Clint tells her she is “amazing” which I don’t quite see.  She hasn’t done one amazing thing in the whole movie. 

 

     Okay, here is my take on this movie. First, I’ll share what I appreciate and relate to.  I appreciate that Grace’s family love and support her, and want to help her.  I appreciate the struggle she has in the dating world, with so many messages out there, both Christian and secular.  When I was in my early 20’s, I felt like I was constantly getting bombarded with contradictory messages about what was expected of me, and what was right and proper.  I was left feeling defeated and confused.  So I do relate to Grace in this area.  I can understand having your heart broken by someone you had hoped to marry.  I was there once.  Thankfully not now, but I was there at one time.  I like how her father states that it’s more about becoming the right person than finding the right person.  The rest of the movie doesn’t really stand behind this philosophy, but it’s a true statement.  The statement is made about being complete in Christ either way, which is also true (though not otherwise emphasized).  Waiting on God’s timing is brought up, which I 100% agree with.  In spite of what I’m going to say in the next paragraph, I do also feel that Grace’s parents are kind, loving parents, and are motivated by wanting what is best for her. 

 

     Here is where I don’t really relate.  I can’t say I disagree with the message.  I don’t think the model of courtship they are advocating is “wrong” per se.  I especially think this model could possibly be a good idea if a young lady is still a teenager, living with parents, and is in a relationship.  However, Grace is supposedly a college student.  Again, I don’t disagree with her having her father’s guidance in dating/courting.  It isn’t “wrong” but I don’t believe it is biblically commanded either.  Additionally, it isn't a magic formula for having a perfect relationship.  Not every family would want to follow this model.  Not every family is equipped to follow it.  I was raised to make good decisions and seek God’s will for myself, so that when I was an adult, I would be able to navigate relationships, and stay in God’s will for me with my own relationship with Christ.  It seems like Grace’s parents failed to do that for her when she was younger.  

     I get that Stewart was a bad guy, and Grace was foolish to want to be with him in the beginning.  There were a lot of warning signs she chose to ignore.  In saying that, I understand her parents’ reservations about him.  What I don’t get is why, if Stewart could possibly have been “the one,” as Grace thinks he is at one point, the father doesn’t want her to be “emotionally attached” to him.  I can see where being emotionally attached to Stewart would be bad, since he ends up being a bad guy, but it is implied that being emotionally attached to someone you want to marry is a bad thing.  I was confused by that.  Couples can’t know if they’re right for each other if they don’t get emotionally attached.  I would never have wanted to marry a man I wasn’t emotionally attached to.  We need to guard our hearts, but we still need to form relationships.  That’s a risk we take.  We even take that risk in just becoming friends with people and bearing more and more of our heart to them.  That's part of life.  

     I also had a problem with Grace being so obsessed with marriage, and not having any real goals or talents of her own.  Her character development is lacking.  She is never taught to be the best she can be in Christ by herself.  The whole goal of the movie is to get her married off.  That is a very dangerous message.  Marriage is instituted by God, but it is not the only valid life for a believer.  Some are called to be single, and are more effective for the kingdom as single (Matthew 19:12, First Corinthians 7).  And even if one is called to be married, he or she should still become the person God created them to be, as an individual.  This is not shown in the movie. 

     Grace never really has to suffer in her waiting for her husband.  She gets her heart's desire pretty easily.  As someone who had to wait a little longer, I can't relate to that.  I have many single friends now who wouldn't relate.

 

     A few things that confused me were: how much time passed?  A few days?  A month?  A year?  It is unclear.  It seems like Grace went from being heartbroken over Stewart to being in a new relationship with Jared, to being with Clint.  It’s like she doesn’t take the time to process.  It makes her seem really shallow.  Another thing that confuses me is why Grace is friends with Tessa.  They don’t seem to share the same values, and Tessa is kind of mean to her. 

 

     This movie, made in 2015, comes after years and years of books, conferences, and movements on the subject of purity.  I am all for purity (Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Second Timothy 2:2).  However, I feel the purity culture of the 1990’s and 2000’s was harmful to many teenagers and young adults.  The intent was good, but all it really did was add a lot of extra-biblical rules to young people’s lives.  As Christians, we are to be in-line with scripture and guided by the Holy Spirit in all we do.  That includes our romantic relationships.  But that doesn’t mean there’s a once-size-fits-all approach.  God guides all of our lives differently.  He will never guide us to go against the Bible, but He can still guide us differently from each other.  There is nowhere in scripture where we are commanded to do courtship the way this movie says.  Grace’s father pulls Jeremiah 29:6 out as a “proof” that it is biblical for fathers to find spouses for their daughters, but if you read that whole verse, it says, Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease.  This passage advises parents to find spouses for both sexes of their children, not just daughters.  And the actual teaching of this verse, in context, is about the children of Israel settling in Babylon for the next 70 years.  It isn’t a God-given command on how parents are supposed to select their children’s spouses.  Trying to make it say that is weak, and poor hermeneutics. 

 

     I will add a note about Eric and Leslie Ludy’s book When God Writes Your Love Story (which Grace reads).  I read an older edition of that book in the very early 2000’s, when I was in my early 20’s, after a painful break-up.  I was really trying to trust and rest in the Lord.  That’s how God was leading me at that time.  I wanted to follow His plan for my life, not just in dating/marriage, but in all areas, and God was calling me to go deeper with Him.  I saw that book at the Christian Bookstore one day, and with the emphasis of the title being God writing one’s love story, I though the book would be encouraging the reader to really let God do it, which was what He was telling me in my life.  I ended up being annoyed and disappointed by it.  It is basically the authors sharing their story of ending up together as older teenagers.  I got the idea of “I didn’t meet my husband until I was seventeen.  I’m so glad I waited!”  They used their story as a pattern of how relationships should be, and that isn’t right.  As I said, God works differently in everyone’s life.  We all have our own path to follow—a race marked out for us, if you will (Hebrews 12:1).  Other books that did this were Elisabeth Elliot’s Passion and Purity and Joshua Harris’ Boy Meets Girl.  These books used the author’s story as the example of what all people need to do, and that is totally unbiblical.  I shared this in another post, but if I had Elisabeth Elliot’s story with her husband Jim, I would have decked him before he even got to the point of proposal—and I admire him as a missionary hero, but not as a romantic suitor!  Our stories are for us to share so others can glorify God, and know God can work in their lives too, not for people to copy us.  That’s all I will say about that one. 

 

     I’ll also speak to Grace’s insistence that her future husband has to give her a $12,000 ring.  It’s nice to know one’s worth, and to realize that one shouldn’t give oneself away without commitment.  But that is a lot of money.  There are wonderful, worthy men who don’t have that kind of money for a ring.  My wonderful husband and I were pretty broke when he proposed.  The day after we got engaged, he got me a place-holder ring from Kmart, about $20.  That sufficed until payday, when we went to a jeweler.  The silver diamond engagement ring I still wear with my wedding band to this day is beautiful, but it wasn’t $12,000.  I wouldn’t have wanted anything even close to that!  For our wedding bands, we got stainless steel, which lasts forever, but was very much within our budget.  We preferred to use our money wisely, and spend more of it on our honeymoon and future than the ring. 

Our wedding picture

 

     I am no feminist, but I disagree with the implication of this movie that a young woman is not capable of making good decisions without her father.  I think it’s great if a father wants to help, but the character of Grace was sorely lacking in life skills, such as decision-making.  Her walk with the Lord was never really emphasized.  No one’s really was.  For being a Christian movie, it was a lot more about courtship than Jesus or the Bible. 

 

     I’ll close with a few positives.  The cinematography and musical score were beautiful.  Grace’s parents were sweet, supportive, virtuous people, who, as I said, are truly motivated by wanting God’s best for their daughter.   I liked the country feel. 

 

     So, you have been warned.  Watch this movie at your own risk!  There are some sequel films I may or may not watch. 

Something Nice about All States

     I have been working on this post for a few weeks.  The goal in this one is just to give encouragement through beautiful scenery.  

     Ephesians 4:29 says, Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.  It is also said (though not scripturally!) that a picture is worth a thousand words.  This post is a combination of those two statements!

    I am going to say some good things about all 47 states I've visited (my apologies to Wisconsin, South Carolina, and Alaska for not being able to speak first-hand about them yet--they are on my to-do-list, but I just haven't gotten to those ones yet!).  I'll include pictures.  Some have captions, giving an explanation.  Unless otherwise stated, these are my own pictures, taken with my camera.  A few of the states I've been to were pretty brief, and I don't have any good pictures taken there.  A few others were quite a long time ago, and while I took pictures at the time, over the years of prioritizing through life-changes, I let go of some (not very many fit this category, but a few).   For those states that I didn't get good pictures in (or any pictures in), I got some scenery photos online, and I will make it clear which ones are mine and which are not.  Consider this a photographic tour (with some encouraging scripture sprinkled in)!  If you've been to these places, share your stories in the comments.  You may want to take your time going through, but please enjoy a time of biblical meditations from Sea to Shining Sea

Alabama

Enjoying lunch at Annie's Comfort Kitchen in Elba, Alabama

     Alabama is special to me, as my maternal grandmother is from there.  I still have relatives in northern Alabama.  Traveling through the Deep South was a treat for us.  There was a mix of rural woods and beautiful cities.  As I think of Alabama and my family heritage, I'm reminded that we are called to remember what God has been doing in our lives, even before we came to be.

     Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.  -Isaiah 46:9

Arizona     

     Overall, Arizona has been a part of my life, as I grew up only one state over.  Arizona is special to me, because my husband and I honeymooned there.  As I consider this, I am reminded of God's promise in Psalm 37:4, Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.

   

Walter and Janelle in the English Village at Lake Havasu, AZ.  We had honeymoooned there, and in this picture, we were returning for an anniversary trip later.  

 

Walter and Janelle Stoermer at Four Corners, Utah, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico

Lake Powell, on the Arizona and Utah state line

Arkansas

     Arkansas is home to us now.  For a few years, we moved quite a bit.  We made friends and had good experiences in several places, but we finally got to a place where we would put down roots as a family.  This reminds of me Psalm 37:3, one verse prior to the Arizona's verse.  Trust in the Lord and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Psalm 37:3 

California

     California is the state where God chose to create me, let me grow up, and come to know Him.  Acts 17:26-27 says, And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;  That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us.  This passage makes it clear God is intentional about where and when He placed us, with the purpose being that we would know Him.  That being said, God chose California to be that place where I came to salvation.  It was also the state where I graduated from high school and college, got my first job(s), saw spiritual victories in ministry, and married the love of my life.  That makes me happy.

Janelle and Walter's engagement photo, Yucca Valley California (see the Joshua trees)

San Francisco

Janelle and Walter Stoermer, Death Valley, California

Green Valley Lake, California

Redlands, California

Hurkey Creek, California

Lake Skinner, California

Fossil Falls, Inyo County, California

Janelle and Walter, at the beach in Carlsbad, California

Colorado

    Colorado is one of those states that I have been through many times, but seldom had it as the actual destination.  It is gorgeous, and I always enjoy going through.  One of my favorite things going through Colorado when we head West on a trip is that they start having Carl's Jr. restaurants, and I always have to go get a Santa Fe Chicken Sandwich at the first Carl's Jr. we run across in Colorado!  One of my favorite memories in Colorado happened in 2016.  Walter and I met some friends in Colorado Springs, and we went to Focus on the Family and out to eat.  Because I am always traveling when I'm in Colorado, I am reminded that all Christians are traveling through life, and that we are strangers and pilgrims on the earth (Hebrews 11:13).  We should enjoy the beautiful times, but keep our minds on the eternal.

Out to eat with good friends, Colorado Springs (Walter took the picture)

 

Focus on the Family Headquarters, Colorado Springs

Walter and Janelle Stoermer at Four Corners, Utah, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico

Connecticut

     We were in Connecticut as part of a New England vacation.  We didn't spend as much time there, but we did stop to take a tour of Yale University (pictured below).  Walter wanted to at least look at the campus, since we were there.  We got there at the exact moment they were starting a free tour.  It was unplanned, but perfect timing.  So much of life is like that.  God is really the one directing our steps.  A man’s heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps. -Proverbs 16:9

A tour we took of Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut

Delaware

     Delaware was another pass-through state on our trip.  In addition to the picture I took (below, with the state sign), I've added a few from online, to give an idea how beautiful it is.  During our quick jaunt in Delaware, we met kind and helpful people, and were able to get some souvenirs.  It was evening while we were there, and I'm reminded that Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.  -Psalm 30:5b

My picture

Taken from https://www.americanrivers.org/river/delaware-river/

  

Taken from visualbuckscounty.com

Florida

     We spent a night and a day in Pensacola, Florida, during which time we enjoyed the beach.  It was gorgeous and sunny, even in November.  I'm reminded of the bright future for believers.  He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son. Revelation 21:10

Walter and Janelle at Pensacola, Florida

Georgia

     We visited some good friends in Georgia last Thanksgiving.  It was a very scenic area, with a lot of woods and small town beauty.  It was a refreshing time to be with far-away friends.  Like cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.  Proverbs 25:25

In Monticello, Georgia

Hawaii

     In 2003, I attended a ministry conference in Honolulu.  It was the most boring conference I ever attended, but it was the most fun location I have been to!  I loved every moment we weren't in session!  The highlight was one day, when our group took a tour bus all over Oahu.  The driver must have known we were Christians, because he kept his jokes very clean, though still hilarious.  He told us stories of people coming to Hawaii and asking him how much it cost to mail a letter "back to the United States" (not realizing Hawaii is one of our 50 states!).  Incidentally, Hawaii is the only state I've been to that Walter has not (as I was only 21 and still single in 2003, when I went).  The only state he has been to that I haven't is South Carolina, so we have both been to 47 states.  We both need Wisconsin and Alaska, and then I need South Carolina and he needs Hawaii.  I had always wanted to visit Hawaii, and I was thankful to be afforded the opportunity as a result of my ministry.  We don't know where our journey of faith will lead us at times!  It could be the adventure of a lifetime.  As I consider all of this, I think of Hebrews 11:8, ...[Abraham] obeyed and went, even though he did bot know where he was going.  

Honolulu

Idaho

     I have been to Idaho multiple times, both before and since I've been married.  Our family friends moved up there years ago, and I had gone to visit them several times.  My parents retired up there a while back.  Walter and I go up for holidays when we can.  I have seen Idaho in its different seasons.  Idaho is a place of reunion for me, seeing friends and family I miss.  One day, all believers will be united in Heaven.  Philippians 1:21 reminds us, For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

Minidoka County, Idaho

Rupert, Idaho town square

Sun Valley, Idaho

Janelle and Walter at the Magic Valley Mall, Twin Falls, Idaho

Illinois

     Illinois is one of those states I have been to, and once had pictures of, but I can no longer find them.  They are not in any of my scrapbooks from the time I was there.  So these pictures are not my own, but they can give an idea of the Land of Lincoln!  I would like to return sometime.  Abraham Lincoln came from Illinois (though born in Kentucky), so it is a state the has bred greatness.  My best friend from missionary institute was from Illinois as well (we are pictured together below, but this picture was taken in Missouri).  Her name is Jill, and we called her Jillinois.  That was partly her idea, because it helped people learn the correct way to pronounce Illinois (with the s being silent).  I once told someone "It Ill-annoys the people from Illinois when you pronounce it Illinois!"  Corny, I know, but it got a laugh at the time!  Below my picture of myself with Jill are some Illinois scenery shots taken off the internet.  Illinois is the sixth-most populated state, with its largest city, Chicago, being the third-largest city in the US.  With so many people, I am reminded of Jesus' words,  ...Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest. John 4:35b

Taken from https://globalgrasshopper.com/destinations/north-america/top-15-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-illinois/

Taken from https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/illinois/scenic-country-drives-il/

Indiana

     We spent a night in Indianapolis once, and enjoyed driving through the state.  The route we took was mostly peaceful countryside.  It made me think of Jesus' promise to us in John 14:27, Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, nor fearful. 

Iowa

     Iowa has played a big role in my life.  It is my mother's home state, and I have family there to this day.  Also, I served in ministry in Sioux City, Iowa when Walter and I lived in South Dakota (but almost on both the Iowa and Nebraska state lines, about 20 minutes from Sioux City, Iowa).  When you've spent time sharing Jesus somewhere, that place takes on new significance!  And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation..." -Mark 16:15

Our evangelism team, 2018, in Osceola, Iowa (way down south--we spent two weeks down there)

Going for ice cream at the. Blue Bunny factory in Le Mars, Iowa, after doing a 5-day club

We did a 5-day club in the small town of Salix, Iowa.  Their town sign advertised us!

Kansas

     I think Kansas is the most underrated state.  It's all The Wizard of Oz's fault.  That movie shows Kansas in black and white, and the color only comes when Dorothy leaves Kansas.  In our several treks through Kansas, we have found it to be a beautiful state, with kind people and good food.  Some of our very good ministry friends now live in Newton, Kansas (we are pictured with them).  Like Bethlehem in the Bible, Kansas is underestimated.  But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. -Micah 5:2 (by the way, I don't use this verse as a wild claim that some prophecy will be fulfilled out of Kansas.  I just make the comparison that wonderful things are happening there that no one is expecting).  

  

Kentucky

     Kentucky is a charming state, with rolling hills and friendly people.  The Noah's Ark replica and the Creation museum are in Kentucky, reminding me that we as Christians are to be,  Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.  -Philippians 2:16

Dated info: Andy Beshear is no longer the governor

 

Louisiana

     Though I can honestly say I've been to Louisiana, I just barely dipped my toe in.  We briefly had lunch in Junction City, Louisiana while visited with friends in its twin city of Junction City, Arkansas.  I would love to explore a lot more in Louisiana.  The people I've met from Louisiana are friendly.  It took living in the South for me to realize that the phrase "Southern Accent" is sort of a misnomer, because there are many variations of what we call the Southern accent.  To me, the Louisiana dialect is by far the most sophisticated and attractive (and I love all of them!).  Louisiana strikes me as a hopeful place, with so much to see and do.  He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.  -Psalm 126:6

Maine

     I have been to Maine twice--once in 2001 on a New England mission trip, and again in 2022 with my husband.  Maine is a beautiful state.  While I am not usually that into seafood, I can definitely make an exception in Maine.  Both trips, I enjoyed authentic Maine lobster (in the same restaurant, though by 2022, it had a different name and owner, but it was in the same building).  The Maine ocean views remind me of Psalm 107:29, He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.  God is in control!

Maryland

     Walter and I stayed the night in Maryland while traveling.  It was a wonderful experience, and we enjoyed driving through parts of the state the next morning, eventually crossing into West Virginia.  I found Maryland to be pretty, and it's residents to be hospitable.  Proverbs 18:24, A man who has friends must himself be friendly

Massachusetts

     I have been to Massachusetts twice (I can say that about most New England States), in 2001 and 2022.  2001 was a mission trip when I was nineteen, and that was special, with eternal results.  However, I loved the 2022 trip far more, because I went with my husband, and we thoroughly enjoyed everything!  Both times, I got to see and do a lot. Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.  -Philippians 4:4

Massachusetts scenery

Boston Skyscraper, 2001

I am pictured with my childhood friend Vanessa, who is now married and living in Massachusetts.  We were able to visit with them fall of 2022.

 

Michigan

     We went to Michigan in 2021.  Our reasoning was sort of funny.  My husband and I love going to the few remaining Kmart stores, and there was one still open in Marshall, Michigan (though it closed later that year).  We just made it a fun weekend trip.  We found Michigan to be more beautiful than we ever imagined.  No eyes has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.  -First Corinthians 2:9

Minnesota

     Minnesota is sort of like Louisiana to me--I've been, but just barely.  When we lived in South Dakota, we lived in the far southeast corner, almost in Nebraska and Iowa, but about an hour from Minnesota.  One day, we went to Laverne, Minnesota and got ice cream before heading home.  I've known some wonderful folks from Minnesota.  My brief time there was fun (and the ice cream was amazing!).  Their winters are nothing to laugh at.  As I think of the strong weather they receive, I think of Isaiah 55:10-11, For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

Mississippi

     I have been through Mississippi.  There is some pretty scenery, especially in wooded areas.  I was struck with the richness of the beauty.  The first picture, with the state sign, is my photo, but I added another one from the internet.  It looks exactly like the drive we had through Mississippi, so I almost feel I could have taken it.  Our God made it all--he is a rich God, and He supplies for us.  And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.  -Philippians 4:19

 

taken from https://www.natcheztracetravel.com/natchez-trace-mississippi/canton-jackson-ms/3263-parkway-scenery.html

Missouri

    Missouri has played a big role in my life.  The ministry we serve with is headquartered there, and I have been there countless times in my adult life.  I have had some of the best and most difficult experiences of my life in Missouri (aka The Show Me State).  The only reason I share that part (since I'm committed to sharing only good things about each state in this post) is because it was good,   The Holy Spirit truly became my Helper in Missouri. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever. -John 14:16

The Precious Moments chapel was a very restorative experience

Walter and Janelle, visiting with friends in Springfield, MO, 2020

Missouri State Capitol, Jefferson City

Montana

    I have been to Montana a couple of times, but the photos below are from our most recent time, in November of 2021.  Believe it or not, they were only taken about twenty minutes (and about ten miles) apart, but the elevation was different!  Montana is a gem of beauty, and I just felt God's presence.  For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.  -Romans 1:20

 

Nebraska

     For two years, we lived in Vermillion, South Dakota, five minutes' drive from the Nebraska state line (and about fifteen minutes from Iowa), and we constantly crossed state lines.  Our favorite restaurant, Donna's Diner, was in Wynot, Nebraska.  Nebraska is a state with a lot of pretty scenery (especially in the springtime).  The smallest city hall in the US was there as well, in Maskell (a village of about 60 people).  A fun place in Nebraska is the Bakers Candy Shop, outside of Lincoln!  Aside from living so close to Nebraska for a while, we have also travelled through Nebraska many times.  Nebraska has some beautiful cities.  Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island and North Platte have all been enjoyed by us in our travels.  On the other hand, one of my favorite things about Nebraska was exploring little villages.  For example, Center, Nebraska is the county seat of Knox County, but only has a population of 73 residents!  It is huge compared to Obert, Nebraska, which boasts 23 people.  One town, St. James (current population 12) had quite a history, and was once a thriving community.  During my time in the area, I would go to the farmers market run out of their former Catholic church.  Old residents of the town were trying to hang onto the memories of what their city once was, from the 19th century through the 20th.  It made me wonder about the history of all these little towns, the people, and what became of all of them.  I think God calls us to remember.  I praise you for remembering me in everything and for holding to the traditions just as I passed them on to you.  -First Corinthians 11:2

Smallest City hall in the US, Maskell, NE

Nebraska Capitol, Lincoln

 

Donna's Diner in Wynot, Nebraska--our favorite local restaurant 

Nevada

     When you say "Nevada" people often think of Las Vegas, but the state is so much more than that.  I admit that I like driving through Vegas at night, because all the lights make the drive easier than just driving through darkness.  But I especially like traveling through the Central and Northern Nevada, on both the East and the West ends of the state.  For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south.  But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.  -Psalm 75:6-7

 

New Hampshire

     Like several New England states, I have been to New Hampshire twice, in 2001 as part of a mission trip, and in 2022 with my husband Walter.  Walter fell in love with New England in general, and New Hampshire in particular.  We spent more time there this time around.  New Hampshire is a beautiful state, especially in the Fall.  Even though New Hampshire is not a terribly congested state population-wise, we had a hard time getting a hotel room, because so many vacationers wanted to visit and see the leaves.  I'm reminded that we all need to make sure we make our reservation for Heaven by receiving Jesus and His gift of eternal life, so we can be welcomed in and hear Jesus say, Well done, good and faithful servant!  You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.  Come and share your master's happiness!  -Matthew 25:23

New Jersey

     I was in New Jersey briefly in 2006 in traveling, but spent a little more time there in 2022, during our East Coast trip.  During that time, we went to the Kmart in Westwood, NJ, one of the three remaining Kmarts in the US.  The Kmart picture below is mine, but I added a scenic NJ picture from the internet.  What I have to say is that every Christian I have met from New Jersey is amazing.  Truly amazing.  I have met many such residents of New Jersey through ministry.  Some truly amazing believers live in The Garden State.  New Jersey is the most densely-populated state, as well as the 11th most populated.  There are so many opportunities to share Jesus.  Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.  -Matthew 28:19-20.

 

taken from https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-jersey/nj-beautiful-scenic-byways/

New Mexico

     We lived in New Mexico for 13 months.  We had been to the Land of Enchantment (New Mexico's nickname) a few times prior, and have driven through it since we moved away.  Is is probably the most intriguing state.  I had my dream job there, teaching 5th grade at a Christian school.  I literally loved every minute of my time working there.  The food in New Mexico is amazing.  I remember the day after we moved to Albuquerque, I went into a Smith's grocery store, and I asked an employee where to find a certain item.  I turned out that this was the manager, and he not only showed me, but shook my hand and welcomed me to Albuquerque.  People in New Mexico are incredibly friendly and outgoing.  We should follow their example and Accept each other just as Christ has accepted you.  -Romans 15:7

Janelle and Walter in Old Town Albuquerque, NM

 

Roswell, NM (alien town!  Notice the alien head streetlight)

Walter and Janelle Stoermer at Four Corners, Utah, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico

New York

     I have been very close to New York City, driving over the Tappan Zee Bridge (where you can get a view of the city), but I haven't actually been in NYC myself.  So I have seen it, but not entered.  Kind of like Moses' relationship with the Promised Land.  I have, however, been through New York state, including the state capital city of Albany. It was a beautiful state, with friendly residents.  We went through fire and through water; But You brought us out to rich fulfillment. -Psalm 66:12

New York State Capitol, Albany

Janelle and Walter, Lake Erie, New York 

North Carolina

    Along with Illinois, North Carolina is a state that I have spent time in, and know I took some pictures of, but no longer have them.  As such, the photo below isn't mine, though that looks a lot like ones I would have taken.  My time in North Carolina was near Asheville.  I had been told before going that it was the pretty spot in the United States.  I personally can't pick one place that deserves that, but I know many that could tie, including North Carolina.  I lift up my eyes to the hills.  From where does my help come?  My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.  -Psalm 121:1-2

taken from https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/north-carolina/scenic-drives-nc/

North Dakota

     We went through North Dakota on I-94, entering  at night, but staying overnight, and spending the next day in Bismarck.  My camera broke after I took the picture below, so the other pictures I'm including of North Dakota are off the internet.  We enjoyed Bismarck, and then stayed  a second night in North Dakota's largest city, Fargo.  Due to some unforeseen circumstances, we actually changed our plans and spent more time in North Dakota than planned.  In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.  -Proverbs 3:6

Bismarck, taken from https://www.bismarcknd.gov/

 

Fargo, taken from https://www.forbes.com/places/nd/fargo/?sh=6a9f9ced3df8

Ohio

     We have been through Ohio a few times.  We once cut south on I-75 through the entire state, exiting at Cincinnati.  More recently, we entered at Cincinnati and cut northeast, through Columbus and Cleveland.  We enjoyed our time in Ohio, especially visiting family and friends.  Oil and perfume make the heart glad, So a man’s counsel is sweet to his friend.  -Proverbs 27:9

Janelle and Walter, Columbus, Ohio 

 

Janelle and Walter, North Royalton, Ohio (near Cleveland)

Oklahoma

     I have enjoyed every experience I've had in Oklahoma.  We had enjoyed time in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and other places around the state.  I think our favorite is Tahlequah, where the Cherokee Nation is located.  That is an especially pretty part of the state.  I remember when we bought a CD of Cherokee worship music.  They were familiar songs, but in unfamiliar words.  We sang along in English as we drove through the beautiful scenery.  Psalm 9:11 says, Sing praises to the Lord, who dwells in Zion; Declare among the peoples His deeds.  

Oregon

     I have known some great ministry partners from Oregon.  There's nothing quite like the Oregon coast.  The ocean views are very restorative to me, reminding me that,  Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.  -Psalm 26:3

Pennsylvania

     I have had great experiences with the residents of Pennsylvania, and I enjoyed the beautiful forests in this state.  For you will go out with joy And be led forth with peace; The mountains and the hills will break forth into shouts of joy before you, And all the trees of the field will clap their hands.  -Psalm 56:12

Rhode Island

     I love Rhode Island as much as the rest of New England.  As with several of the other New England states, I was there in 2001 and 2022.  Both times were pretty brief.  The autumn scenery was amazing, and we enjoyed a great restaurant.  Rhode Island is small but mighty.  For who has despised the day of small things? -Zechariah 4:10

 

A fun, delicious restaurant we were able to have lunch at

South Dakota

          We lived in South Dakota for two years.  We experienced all four seasons twice.  In one of the pictures below, we visited the state Capitol in Pierre (pronounced Peer, not Pee-air).  Our time in South Dakota was a time of growth for us.  But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ... -Second Peter 3:18

  

Tennessee

     As it currently stands while we're in Arkansas, Tennessee is our neighbor to the East.  We have been through Tennessee a couple of times, once staying the night in Cookeville, TN.  I would really love to see the Great Smokeys.  A verse that comes to me when I think about Tennessee is Isaiah 55:9, For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. 

Texas

     We lived in Texas for about nine months.  My husband had his dream job there, working for a PAC, registering people to vote.  I made some sweet friends at my job (First Baptist Church of Grand Prairie, TX).  We still talk to a lot of the people we met there in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.  Covid came along and redirected our lives.  God used that to move us to the ministry in Arkansas.  I think back on how we sought God's will in our Texas apartment, and I'm reminded of Psalm 32:8, I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.

Utah

     Utah is a lovely state.  I've been through it many times visiting my family in Idaho.  Walter and I have stayed with friends in St. George (far southern Utah), and we have enjoyed time in Salt Lake City, the capitol.  Much of the scenery reminds me a lot of the best of California.  I once had a spiritual breakthrough in my life during a trip I took through Utah.  I was seeking the Lord about something important, and He met me in my inquiry.  You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. -Jeremiah 29:13

Walter and Janelle Stoermer, at Four Corners.  In this picture, we are in Utah, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico

Lake Powell, on the Arizona and Utah State Line

Vermont

     Unlike most of the New England states, Vermont (as well as Connecticut) was one I never did visit during my 2001 mission trip.  My first time in Vermont was in the fall of 2022, with my husband.  We had a wonderful time, and stayed with our friends in Lyndon Center.  Vermont is a beautiful place in the Autumn, with gorgeous leaves.  We also enjoyed visiting the state Capitol in Montpelier, and eating maple ice cream and candy.  It was a restorative time in the Lord.  Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.  -Matthew 11:29

 

Vermont Capitol Building, Montpelier

 

 

Virginia

     We went through Virginia, and spent quite a long time doing so.  We enjoyed a meal in the town of Christian, Virginia.  People were friendly (as they have been in all 47 states we've been to).  It was a good experience, and safe travels.  But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.  Second Thessalonians 3:3

Washington

     I am from the West Coast, and feel an affinity with the other West Coast states.  All the same, I have only briefly been in Washington State, and have no pictures at present.  The photo below is taken off the internet.  During my time in Washington, I was treated in a friendly and Christian manner.  I have Christian friends here in Little Rock who are from Washington, and they are very dedicated and devout in their faith in Christ.  The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.  -Proverbs 15:3

taken from https://www.jasminealley.com/most-beautiful-places-washington/

West Virginia

     Our time in West Virginia was a brief drive though, but we did stop, and I was overcome with the glory of the trees and nature.  God's presence was undeniable.  Psalm 104:31-31 says, May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in his works, who looks on the earth and it trembles, who touches the mountains and they smoke!

Wyoming

     I've been through Wyoming many times.  My first experience there was in 2006, when I was single in my mid-20's.  I went to Yellowstone National Park, followed by the Grant Tetons.  It was glorious.  Other trips were more recently with my husband.  We have spent time in Cheyenne, the capital city, as well as Green River, at the opposite end of the state.  Going back to my time at Yellowstone, Old Faithful Geyser (which I am pictured in front of below) did not go off the whole time I was there, which should have been plenty of time. I'm glad God is a lot more faithful than a geyser!  If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself.  -Second Timothy2:13

Yellowstone National Park, 2006

 

Green River, Wyoming

Wyoming State Museum

Wyoming Capitol Building (under construction), Cheyenne, 2017