Exciting News! (and no, I'm not pregnant)

I have been busting at the seams to write this post for the last couple of weeks, but I have been waiting for the right time...for the dust to settle.

I will start by saying that when I first went to visit Cornerstone, I silently prayed in my heart that I would love to work there. Months later we were packing our things and heading to McKinney to indeed live there. In the same way, when I started my masters in professional counseling I knew that I wanted to work with women, but what I really wanted was to be involved in the fight against human trafficking in some capacity. This was a desire that seemed so far fetched many years ago. I was not educated about human trafficking, nor did I even know a soul who advocated on behalf of these individuals.

But, a couple of months ago I started communicating with Leah Knippel, Founder of Freedom Stones International. And last week I became a Freedom Stones part-time, volunteer staff member.

That's right, I went part-time with Mom's Best Friend, only to pick-up more hours for no pay. [Curtsy]

I can't even begin to tell you what this has done for my heart. I am so excited about working with Leah, other talented staff members, and working on behalf of the mission of Freedom Stones. The company launched several months ago and are a claimed learning organization, meaning that although they have developed a business model, they are open to change and adaptation.  What I love is that I am helping with things that truly fit my skill set and background. Have a I mentioned that I am excited?

I could sit here and type a million different things about Freedom Stones, but if you have interest then I trust you will check out their website to learn more. And if you have time watch these videos!



There are a number of ways that you can help!

• Pray for Freedom Stones
• Make a one time donation
• Becoming a monthly supporter
• Purchase handicraft jewelry available online
• Help raise awareness by hosting a Chain Breaking Event
• Receive the Freedom Stones newsletter
• Volunteer
• Follow Freedom Stones on Facebook and Twitter.

Should you have any questions or want to help in ANY way, please email me directly at courtney@freedomstones.ws

Breaking the chains of trafficking,

Our First

On Saturday, Larry and I celebrated our first trip around the sun as a married couple! This last year has flown by and I am ridiculously grateful for the Lord's (and Larry's) mercies in my life. We enjoyed dinner at Rick's Chophouse that evening, but it was just an interesting day with many twists and turns along the way.  It would take me way too long describe our day - you would be reading for days, and laughing and crying all along the way.  Nonetheless, year one is under our belt and I count my husband as a precious gift.  If you haven't checked out Larry's beautiful editing of our wedding, enjoy it now!


California Love Before the Wedding from Larry Ray Causey II on Vimeo.



California Love, The Ceremony from Larry Ray Causey II on Vimeo.



California Love III from Larry Ray Causey II on Vimeo.

Off to the Zoo!

On Saturday Larry and the residents met me after class and we headed to the Dallas Zoo.  It was perfect weather and the girls did a great job packing a picnic for us all. After lunch we split up and the girls and I enjoyed every second of our zoo adventure together. Larry and I know that our Saturdays look different than if we had stayed on Abbey Rd., but we would not trade this time for anything. It is such a blessing.  We would covet your prayers though, that Larry and I would be diligent and thoughtful about setting aside time for one another. We did get to enjoy a long bike ride tonight, which was much needed! :)

Here are some pictures from my sweet time with my girls.