Saturday, May 29, 2010

Saturday, May 29, 2010

I just woke up from a long, sweet nap. It's very quiet here at Miss Juanita's house. Naps are so tempting and I had to succumb. I've been 'granny-sitting' for Miss Juanita for the last couple of days. She is so sweet and I enjoy her company very much. Ella, the dog is wonderful and I have enjoyed taking her for long walks, until this morning, when she left for the lake with her Papa. We miss her, but I'm sure she's enjoying herself there, too.

The weather this week has been so pretty. I've been trying to get my walks in early in the day before it gets too hot. I was very lax about walking when it was rainy outside. I haven't been to the Wellness Center for a while because I love walking outside. I need to be more diligent in going there to walk when the weather is not good. This morning I walked for about 4 miles. It was so nice. (maybe that's why I succumbed to the nap) I miss taking Ella for our short walks around the complex.

This week has been very busy and fruitful. God is always busy working around us and it's so fun to get involved with what He is doing. He has allowed me to have some very productive meetings regarding the service that we can be doing in the community, especially for the Mission Rogers Youth Week. Both conversations I had this week extended beyond Missions Week to cover on-going opportunities and some good networking for the future.

Cuerpo Vivo has kept me busy lately with not only the routine things of helping Pastors Jaime and Oliver organize the ministry, but also getting plans in place for the Anniversary Celebration on July 10th, and the Small Group Training classes (with childcare) for the next 7 weeks starting this coming Wednesday night. While I'm in Nic, the congregation of FBCR will be starting to meet at the new facility and Cuerpo Vivo will begin meeting in the sanctuary and rooms of the west wing of the 8t street building. We've been working on the details for that transition as well. It's a very busy season for many people!

FBCR has some volunteers currently serving in Haiti, a few left a week ago for a month in China... there are people coming and going constantly to serve where God leads. It is wonderful to be a part of a church that prays, promotes and supports missions efforts all the time. Those people who cannot 'go' are very much a part of the process by praying and giving so that others can go. It is a huge blessing to see everyone working together to take care of the Kingdom work.

A large part of that Kingdom work is serving right here in NWArkansas. I love helping to organize efforts to reach out and touch the lives of those around us so that we can share the love of Christ and the hope of eternal life with Him. I'm blessed.

Time to get busy again. Lots of personal things to catch up on. Those things seem to get pushed to the back burner when I'm busiest with missions stuff. It's good to catch up sometimes.

I pray that everyone is having a wonderful and safe Memorial Day Weekend. While remembering and loving those who have served in Armed Forces and those family members and friends who are no longer with us, PLEASE remember to give glory to our Father who created us and for our Savior Jesus, who gave His earthly life for everyone on earth throughout time. What a HERO!!!

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Just a quick post before I head off to bed.

Friday evening was a lot of fun with the Martínez kids. We had a picnic outside with Jet and played ball and just enjoyed the backyard or a while. Wonderful weather. Danny was sad that Jet wouldn't play Tag You're It with him. I told him that Jet doesn't know how to play it. So Danny proceeded to explain the nuances of the game. It was quite cute. We ended the evening by watching Americas Funniest Videos.

Saturday I was blessed to go to a birthday picnic for some ladies of Cuerpo Vivo. It was hot, but lovely. It's always a good time with them.

Sunday was a good day at church. Set up and tear down for Cuerpo Vivo worship is going more smoothly each week. Just a couple more months and we won't have to do that. What a treat! But we are very thankful to have a place to worship on Sundays!

It's been a busy week juggling various projects. I love being busy and love all I get to be involved with. I'm trying to stay ahead of everything so I can go to Nic without too much pending. God is opening doors and clearing paths to make new ways to honor Him through serving others. It's exciting.

I will be 'granny-sitting' for the next 3 days. I really enjoy Miss Juanita and am looking forward to spending time with her. And Ella, the dog is a sweetie, too.

Spanish learning is going pretty well. I'm still my own worst enemy when I try to communicate. Oliver says I correct myself before I even talk. It's start and stop, kind of like learning to drive a stick shift car... Anyway, I can tell improvement every week. (like chipping hand/foot-holds in a rock that I'm trying to climb. I'll make it to the top someday!) I'm thankful for the opportunity to learn.

Better go for now. Dios es Bueno. Siempre.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Thursday. This morning started slow since I was up for a few hours in the middle of the night. I got to the Cuerpo Vivo class a few minutes late. I called Oliver on my way there to tell him I would be a little late. He said it was no problem and that I was truly Hispana now (late). ha Class was great and I could tell that my comprehension of Spanish is getting a little better all the time. Gracias a Dios!

I did have to miss a meeting that was at the same time as my class. RE Clark, the Director of Missions for the NWA Baptist Association spoke to the Women On Mission ladies this morning about what all opportunities are happening in, around and through the churches in our area. I heard good things about the talk...including how well the Hispanic churches in our Association work so well together and are growing strong.

After our class this morning, Erika prepared our lunch that she had brought from home. It was sooooo good! I told her that she is my queen. She is so sweet and giving, and an excellent cook!

This evening we had another small earthquake in the area. We had one about a month ago. I heard the boom from the first one, but didn't notice this one. Deanna was in the living room and heard and felt it. We have decided that the quake is the reason that Jet was acting a little bit goofy right before it happened.

The last 2 days have been very productive for me regarding the projects I'm working on. I'm trying to get everything for the summer planned and in place before leave for Nicaragua in July. Lots of things are going on and it's fun to be a part of it all. I just need to rely on God to give me focus and direction and energy to get it all done as He wants!

Tonight was the funeral for another person who died as a result of the bus accident a few week ago involving the Hispanic ministry. A lot of prayers are being lifted for the families involved.

Tomorrow afternoon I get to babysit Oliver and Erika's kids. Jet will be so glad to play with them. I know they want to come over to play with him, too. When both he and Alejandra are standing up, they see eye-to-eye. It's funny to watch them. I'm glad the weather is supposed to be nice so we all (including Jet) can play outside.

Time for bed and some sweet dreams about all that God allows me to be a part of. I'm so thankful to have the life He gives me. I pray that I was a blessing to someone today. God is so precious.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Today has been a beautiful, sunny day. Much appreciated after a mostly rainy week or so.

Last week was busy with classes and meetings and regular stuff. Having Deanna's grandkids here has been fun. They spent half their time here and nights at their other grand-parents' home. Elaine was in and out, mostly out, working on the details of the wedding for Britnee. Watching the weather each day was interesting as we all prayed for the rain to end so the outdoor wedding reception would be dry. It stormed on Friday when they were putting up the tents. It wasn't looking good. But Saturday turned out okay and the reception was moist, but very nice. It seems strange to see the weather report now and not really care if it is going to rain or not.

Speaking of Britnee's wedding, it was nice. She was just beautiful. She is such a sweet girl. I was Deanna's chaufure for the festivities. Cora and JD did such good jobs being flowergirl and candle-lighter. Jake did a wonderful job as officiant. Elaine sang beautifully. Quite the family affair!

Last week I ran down to my Doctor's office to get my second Hep B shot for Nicaragua. Cora went with me to make sure I didn't cry. She was fun. She actually went into the shotroom with me and watched. Afterward, she said 'that was a sharp needle!'. I said "I know!" She said that even though I didn't cry, the fact that I cringed counted, too. ha Then she and I went to Walmart and picked up a few items. She is fun to shop with. We picked out some pillows and white pillow cases for a project. JD and Cora decorated the cases with colored markers and now have special pillowcases to bring back and forth when they travel. They did good jobs on the decorating and had fun spending a rainy afternoon at Nana's house.

Jaime, Oliver and I have been very busy working on the organization of Cuerpo Vivo. The Leadership/Discipleship classes have been going great. A lot of commited members are attending. I'm enjoying playing with the kids on Monday nights and then attending the classes on Tuesday. I'm still very challenged during the class since it's taught in Spanish, but it is good for me in so many ways. We'll be winding down on the Leadership classes in the next few weeks and will be on hiatus for the summer. Starting on June 2, there will be a 7 week session of classes to train small group leaders. There is a lot of interest in the classes. Childcare will be a challenge since it will probably not be offered through FBCR, but we hope to be able to find childcare workers and to be able to use a few rooms in the nursery/preschool area for those 7 weeks. God has it figured out. We just have to discover His plan. :)

Today, a friend helped me work for a second day in sorting, organizing and moving items from the former Puppet Ministry room. It was hard work and there's probably another 2 days of work to come, but it was a lot of fun to work with Elizabeth. She speaks practically no English (but is trying to learn) so we gave my Spanish a good workout. It is good or me to be with people who encourage me to speak only Spanish. I'm trying to immerse myself as much as possible. Jaime, Oliver and I try to speak Spanish in our meetings, but sometimes revert to Englsh because it's faster. I think it might be painful for them to hear me butcher their language so bad. ha Seriously, they are very encouraging and supportive.

I'm working on pulling things together to take to Nicaragua. The 3 girls coming down for 2 weeks have all gotten their tickets, so now it's just a matter of preparing. We are all so excited. It will be hot and humid and a feast for mosquitos, but we're up for the challenge!!

I was able to be home for dinner tonight, so I fixed some whole-grain noodles with lowfat alfredo sauce with spinach, mushrooms, black olives, roasted peppers and roasted chicken on top. Man, was it good! Jet was very jealous.

Well, time for bed. It's Wed tomorrow already. Speaking of time flying by... many of the kids I have watched grow up are graduating from highschool this weekend. I can't believe they are that old. (especially when I haven't aged a bit) ha

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Happy Mother's Day to all my friends and family who are mothters! I've had a wonderful day, even though I'm not a mother myself.

This past week was busy and fun. Monday night was nice enough for the kids to play outside during the Cuerpo Vivo class. Oliver spent some time with me after Staff meeting so we could do some Spanish tutoring. It was a good day.

Tuesday was Cuerpo Vivo class for me. We finished up the study on finding your ministry (by discovering our spiritual gifts, talents and personality traits). It was very insightful. And we sure have a great time of sharing in the class.

Thursday, I dropped the 'mission mobile' (the car I am borrowing while back in Rogers) off to be checked out while I was working. I walked from the shop to the church and then back at the end of the day. I enjoy walking, but I forgot and wore my flipflops that day. I could sure tell a difference in my calves. Then when I got home I took Jet for a walk while I was wearing my good walking shoes and made my legs feel better. ahhhh.

Deanna was out of town on Thursday evening, so I took care of feeding the critters and getting the trash out. All the pets stayed alive and the trashmen found the can, so I think it was a successful day. :)

Friday was spent working from home in the morning, a regular medical test in the early afternoon and then I went to the church to work with Erika to get things staged for the rescheduled 'Día del Niño' event. We had to make some adjustments to our plans since we couldn't get into the room with some of the equipment we needed and also, the generator didn't make it. But everything worked out fine and we had a great time. We had sno-cones, popcorn, hotdogs, nachos, chicharrones, homemade lemonade, games and lots of fun. It is always such a pleasure to work with the Cuerpo Vivo family.

This week has been rather crazy as I was trying to pull details together for a Mother's Day surprise for the sweet Mamas in Cuerpo Vivo. I had to be covert about things so that it would stay a surprise even though some of the Cuerpo Vivo ladies were very involed in the Day of the Child event and I had to keep things for Sunday hidden from them. BUT, I had the best time pulling it all together. We gave all the morhers a red rose and pretty candle holder and nice smelling candle during a special time of recognition and prayer during today's service. Then we had supplies for the kids to make butterflies for their mamas. At the end of service, we served cake and punch. All the mothers seemed to enjoy the special considerations. I had a lot of fun doing it.

Saturday, Deanna's second grade grand-daughter Cora, spent about 5 hours with me running errands, picking up the cakes, staging items at the church, and then making butterflies so the kids would have examples to follow this morning. She was such a delight to spend time with and was very helpful. We also picked out some flowers for her Nana and Mom. She was thrilled to give them their flowers this morning before church.

After the festivities at Cuerpo Vivo this morning, 23 of us (including kids) went to at lunch at Abuelos and had a WONDERFUL lunch! The food was so good and the company even better. Lots of fun with friends. Afterwards, I stopped by my friend Isidro's house and he sent me home with a plate of food from his family's dinner.

When I got home, I jumped into my jammies and visited with Deanna. The grandkids went to spend the night with their other grandparents and Elaine came home and we three ladies lounged around watching shows on the Food Network. A nice relaxing evening.

Tomorrow morning I get the pleasure to driving my friend Megan to Fayetteville, so it will be fun to spend some time chatting on the way. Then the week will start with the usual meetings and classes and special projects. I'm looking forward to it
God always has lots of surprises in store if I just look for them. Can't wait to see what comes this week! He is so good!

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Sunday night - time for bed, but want to post something before I get busy for the week.

The rest of the week was spent working from home and getting lots done on the computer as well as lots of Spanish studying. I wish it would all stay in my brain! By Friday, I was chomping at the bit to get out of the house for awhile. Staying in with my cold/allergies was starting to feel confining.

On Friday, I got to run some errands before heading to the church to print stuff and get ready for Cuerpo Vivo's Sunday service. The storms came through by mid afternoon and we had to make the decision to cancel the Day of the Child event for Saturday. Then, wouldn't you know it... Saturday turned out to be perfect! Oh well, we were not supposed to have it on that day. We've rescheduled for this Friday night, so we'll see how the weather holds out this week.

I stopped in at a consignmnet shop on Friday to pick up some dresses and skirts to wear to church while in Nicaragua. I never wear them here, but we wear them every night in Nic. I found some good deals and was very pleased.

Our Children's ministry at Cuerpo Vivo is growing and we're about to outgrow our classrooms again. We're making changes and are glad to have this nice 'problem' to deal with.

Today we had a good service at Cuerpo Vivo and I know that the services were special for FBCR, as it was Commitment Sunday for the building program. Then many of the FBCR family went to the new building to write scripture on the floors before the carpet goes in this week. We get out kind of Cuerpo Vivo around mid-afternoon, so I didn't get a chance to go to the new building, but I know people really enjoyed getting to bless those floors.

I was blessed to join Oliver, Erika and family, along with Isidro for lunch today. I always love spending time with Oliver's family. Make they me feel right at home. They dropped me off at the church in time for the evening service. It was a good afternoon.

This evening at FBCR, we had a special service of music from the Middle School and High School choirs, as well as a few songs by the kids learning to play guitars and such. It was nice. Also, there were quick reports from some of the people who have went on mission trips lately. There were reports from Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, India and Dubai. I also got to give a quick update about local missions. We were all supposed to keep our reports to 2-3 minutes, but we all talked way longer than that. There's so much to share. Anyway, we all had heartfelt appreciation for God allowing us to serve in these awesome places. Many of them are in need of water to live on, but all have one thing in common - the need for LIVING WATER. I'm blessed to be a part of FBCR, which is made up of a group of people who feel called to support missions around the world and here at home by going, giving and praying.

It's May and time just keeps marching along. Kids will soon be out of school and summer plans will be in full swing. One thing is for sure, God's timing is always perfect and we just need to pay attention and make sure we are doing what He asks in these quickly passing days.

Speaking of time, it's bedtime for me. Sweet dreams!