Past time for posting for the week. The days march on...
After my morning workout on Tuesday, I spent hours on the computer looking up airfares and other info for teams to come to Nica. It's so frustrating that the cost of travel is so expensive! But, our God owns the cattle on a thousand hills and He will fund the things that He has planned.
I went to work out with some friends and then came home and got back on the computer. I hope the workouts balance out the time sitting on my rump!
Wednesday morning, I caught a ride with my friend Teresa to the Olive St campus. I had a meeting with Lisa and partners and Shirley at the Food Pantry. We were discussing the opportunity for a nutritional supplement to be offered to families with kids. I helped answer the phone for a little while so that Glenda could be out of the office for a meeting and an errand. Avis and I had lunch together at Acombarro and it was yummy.
I was able to have a meeting with Pastor Wes on Wednesday afternoon. It was good for me. I wanted to talk about how I felt God leading me to serve, both here in Rogers and Nica. Since my status is kind of a hybrid staff-missionary, there are some perks and some responsibilities that I needed direction on. Anything that helps me survive and serve factors into my support requirements and, therefore, into my communication with my prayer partners and financial supporters. Since I'm leaving again at the end of Sept, I wanted to make sure that I wasn't dropping any balls on the local front. I appreciated the time that Pastor Wes gave me. It was good to talk with him.
I spent some time relaxing outside in the late afternoon and then joined Deanna for Prayer Meeting. It was a good day.
Thursday morning I got to have a good walk and then hit the computer again. I borrowed Deanna's van in the early evening to go help out at the Medical Clinic. I don't do much there, but I can be moral support! Glenda does a great job running the clinic and all the volunteers do a wonderful job in their areas. It was nice to see everyone. I stopped by Walmart on the way home and picked up some great stuff to take to Nica and got stocked up on hummus and fruit and good stuff. I ended up staying late and had a hard time waking up Friday morning!
Deanna went to Silver Dollar City with friends, so she let me borrow her van for the day. I went to my haircut appointment, but Carolyn had forgotten my appointment. But, no problem! I had wheels for the day, so I could reschedule for the afternoon!! I stopped in at Payless Shoes and got 2 pairs for $14. Not bad!
Then I went to the Olive St church to help with the Friday Meals. We had over 70 people again, so it was hopping! We took leftovers to Hannah House, a shelter for men in downtown Rogers. They were very thankful for anything we could bring them. We'll send leftovers there frequently.
Since I had wheels, I stopped in at Kohl's to see what was on their clearance sale aisles. I found a couple of tops for under $5 and some towels really cheap that I will sew together to make a coverlet for my bed in Nica, and I got a couple of pairs of sandals to add to my shoes in Nica. With my discount card that came in the mail, I spent $40 and saved $117. Not bad. I was happy with everything and stayed on my budget! This may not seem like a big deal to many, but when you are living at poverty level, every bargain is a blessing from Heaven!!! After filling the gas tank, I got home and took care of the critters, washed laundry and then waited for Deanna to get home from SDC. She didn't get in till 11pm!! Those crazy girls!
Saturday was spent walking, studying, researching on the computer, reading, relaxing outside and enjoying my day at home. I actually was not feeling very well because of some things that I ate and drank that aren't too good for me and my liver. I knew better, but splurged on everything that went into my mouth on Friday, so I was paying for it on Saturday. I had a stern talk with myself. And I'm going to be good from now on...
This morning, Isidro took me to church at Cuerpo Vivo. I have come a long way in understanding the music and message totally in Spanish. God has blessed me. I need to spend more time studying and need to push on through my hearing loss. But God will make it happen for me. I had lunch with the Treviño family at Juanita's (one of my favorite new places to eat). Then I came home to prep for a meeting this afternoon and then went to church with Deanna and Mary Ann. The meeting was fine and then the service was good with observance of the Lord's Supper. After church, Mary Ann treated us to ice cream at Braum's. Back home to the computer and now I'm way past my bedtime.
I've enjoyed this week and I'm so thankful for all that God allows me to participate in. I only have another 4 weeks before I go back to Nica, and I have a long list of things to accomplish before then. I ask God to plan my steps and prepare me for each day. As long as I can be faithful to His will, I'm happy!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Monday, August 22, 2011
Monday, August 22, 2011
Another week has flown by. Looking back, I'm having trouble remembering everything that went on. I MUST get better about posting on here in a more disciplined manner.
Last Monday was Staff meeting. It has moved over to the Pleasant Grove building since the air conditioning is out in part of the Olive Street building. This works out good since most everyone is at the Pleasant Grove site for morning meetings anyway. And I live closer to it, so it's easier to find a quick ride to the meeting.
After the staff meeting, Janalynn took me by Walmart for some more grocery and Nica shopping. Then I grabbed a ride with Avis to the Olive Street building for a workout with Glenda, Avis and Kellie. It was fun.
I was blessed to visit with Kennita on Monday. I loved 'sitting' with her mom, Ms Juanita in the past. I had not gotten the chance to visit with Kennita since her mom passed on. I had picked up a really pretty yard ornament with a deep red glass ball and an iron butterfly to stick in her yard. I took it down to Kennita's house and she stuck it right in her little garden outside her front door. I hope it brings her sweet feelings when she sees it and remembers how much her mother was loved.
Tuesday and Wednesday, I got a lot of work done at home. So many things on my plate. I feel like they are all running together sometimes. Wednesday, Nana Ruth took me to my mammogram appointment and we stopped at Target to pick up a wonderful deal on an all-in-one printer/copier/scanner for just $24. There were other great deals on some things I was wanting, so I was very excited!
Thursday, I had a lunch meeting with Cathy Krupka regarding the Women's trip to Nica in October. I'm looking forward to having some ladies join us in a Vision trip for planning a large Women's trip in 2012, as well as working with us this October. It was fun to catch up with Cathy, too. She left me with her car so that I could house/dog sit over the weekend. What a blessing to have wheels! I took full advantage of that. I ran some errands that I hate to ask anyone to take me on, since I want to spend time looking and thinking... I love checking things off of my to-do list!
Thursday night I was blessed to join the appreciation dinner for volunteers of the River of Life Medical Clinic. I spoke a little about Nica and about keeping on doing what God is calling, even when we get tired, weary, discouraged, etc. He has a plan for every situation and only He knows if things are going the way He wants. We are to be obedient and serve. It was great to see everyone. Hard to believe the clinic is starting it's 12th year. I met a lady named Brenda, who blessed me with a surprise love offering. God has blessings hidden everywhere!
Friday I was able to visit the Food Pantry really quickly and then help with the Community Meals at the church. I took Will and Miriam Janes home and got to visit with Becca for a little while. A quick stop at home for clothes, etc., and I was on my way to stay with Gus, the dog. He was happy to see a person, but was pouty that his mama was not there. He was no trouble, but didn't even want to play. Poor guy.
Saturday I ran some more errands and visited with Deanna when I stopped by the house for church clothes. I went back to Gus' house and spent some time in the late afternoon working out in the pool. Good exercise and I felt soooo good. Gus even came out and laid on a lawn chair in the sun. I think he was trying to keep his beautiful tan. I spent hours on Bible Study and enjoyed it very much.
Sunday morning I wasn't feeling very well and stayed home and worked on Bible Study some more. I got ready to help greet at a meeting at FBCR, but by the time I got my stuff back to Deanna's, I just had to lay down for a while. I just felt plain old yucky. I don't like my plans being interrupted, but I guess I needed the down time.
This morning I went for my walk and was surprised by Isidro, who ran up behind me and grabbed me. It's a wonder that people driving by didn't stop to rescue me. HA. It's Isidro's birthday today and he took the day off. He was out walking/jogging this morning. It was nice to walk a couple of miles with him and chat. What a blessing for me on his birthday!
Working from home this morning and getting ready for the staff meeting this afternoon. My computer is having a little problem with the charging cord. It's not connecting correctly. I hope it can be fixed fairly easily. I don't know what I would do without my computer!
Time to get back to work for now. Will try to post at least twice a week. There is so much that I forget about when I wait too long. God fills each day with blessings and we forget them way too quickly.
Last Monday was Staff meeting. It has moved over to the Pleasant Grove building since the air conditioning is out in part of the Olive Street building. This works out good since most everyone is at the Pleasant Grove site for morning meetings anyway. And I live closer to it, so it's easier to find a quick ride to the meeting.
After the staff meeting, Janalynn took me by Walmart for some more grocery and Nica shopping. Then I grabbed a ride with Avis to the Olive Street building for a workout with Glenda, Avis and Kellie. It was fun.
I was blessed to visit with Kennita on Monday. I loved 'sitting' with her mom, Ms Juanita in the past. I had not gotten the chance to visit with Kennita since her mom passed on. I had picked up a really pretty yard ornament with a deep red glass ball and an iron butterfly to stick in her yard. I took it down to Kennita's house and she stuck it right in her little garden outside her front door. I hope it brings her sweet feelings when she sees it and remembers how much her mother was loved.
Tuesday and Wednesday, I got a lot of work done at home. So many things on my plate. I feel like they are all running together sometimes. Wednesday, Nana Ruth took me to my mammogram appointment and we stopped at Target to pick up a wonderful deal on an all-in-one printer/copier/scanner for just $24. There were other great deals on some things I was wanting, so I was very excited!
Thursday, I had a lunch meeting with Cathy Krupka regarding the Women's trip to Nica in October. I'm looking forward to having some ladies join us in a Vision trip for planning a large Women's trip in 2012, as well as working with us this October. It was fun to catch up with Cathy, too. She left me with her car so that I could house/dog sit over the weekend. What a blessing to have wheels! I took full advantage of that. I ran some errands that I hate to ask anyone to take me on, since I want to spend time looking and thinking... I love checking things off of my to-do list!
Thursday night I was blessed to join the appreciation dinner for volunteers of the River of Life Medical Clinic. I spoke a little about Nica and about keeping on doing what God is calling, even when we get tired, weary, discouraged, etc. He has a plan for every situation and only He knows if things are going the way He wants. We are to be obedient and serve. It was great to see everyone. Hard to believe the clinic is starting it's 12th year. I met a lady named Brenda, who blessed me with a surprise love offering. God has blessings hidden everywhere!
Friday I was able to visit the Food Pantry really quickly and then help with the Community Meals at the church. I took Will and Miriam Janes home and got to visit with Becca for a little while. A quick stop at home for clothes, etc., and I was on my way to stay with Gus, the dog. He was happy to see a person, but was pouty that his mama was not there. He was no trouble, but didn't even want to play. Poor guy.
Saturday I ran some more errands and visited with Deanna when I stopped by the house for church clothes. I went back to Gus' house and spent some time in the late afternoon working out in the pool. Good exercise and I felt soooo good. Gus even came out and laid on a lawn chair in the sun. I think he was trying to keep his beautiful tan. I spent hours on Bible Study and enjoyed it very much.
Sunday morning I wasn't feeling very well and stayed home and worked on Bible Study some more. I got ready to help greet at a meeting at FBCR, but by the time I got my stuff back to Deanna's, I just had to lay down for a while. I just felt plain old yucky. I don't like my plans being interrupted, but I guess I needed the down time.
This morning I went for my walk and was surprised by Isidro, who ran up behind me and grabbed me. It's a wonder that people driving by didn't stop to rescue me. HA. It's Isidro's birthday today and he took the day off. He was out walking/jogging this morning. It was nice to walk a couple of miles with him and chat. What a blessing for me on his birthday!
Working from home this morning and getting ready for the staff meeting this afternoon. My computer is having a little problem with the charging cord. It's not connecting correctly. I hope it can be fixed fairly easily. I don't know what I would do without my computer!
Time to get back to work for now. Will try to post at least twice a week. There is so much that I forget about when I wait too long. God fills each day with blessings and we forget them way too quickly.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Sunday, August 14, 2011
It's Sunday night and I'm enjoying a quiet evening at home. It's been a busy weekend and I've loved every minute of it!
Saturday morning I met up with 26 other people of Cuerpo Vivo church to go to Carthage MO to minister to a sweet family that they have been in contact with. We took lunch for everyone and also groceries to leave with the family. We spent time visiting and praying with them. It was such a nice time. On the way home, we drove through part of Joplin to see the progress at one of the apartment complexes that Cuerpo Vivo had worked with in the weeks after the Tornado. It was my first time to see the damage, since I couldn't go before. It was heartbreaking to think of all of the families who were effected by the storms. And the length of time that it will take to get back to 'normal', whatever normal is. It was interesting to hear the kids talking about how much cleaner the streets were and be happy that some of the houses were being rebuilt. A very moving trip.
I was invited to one a birthday dinner for one of the Cuerpo Vivo families. We had carnitas and rice. So yummy! Of course, I ate too much. I just don't have good sense, or maybe my tastebuds are hyper and over ride my logic. Anyway, it was good!
This morning, I rode with Deanna to FBC Rogers so I could speak with the ABF class that I'm assigned to. After some minor technical difficulties (mostly me not being technical savvy at all) we got my slide to show up on the TV. I hope I didn't bore the ladies too much, but they seemed to enjoy hearing about serving in missions. Time went by too fast and it was time to go. I waited for my ride to Cuerpo Vivo to pick me up and had a chance to chat with some people at FBCR that I don't usually get to talk with. It was wonderful to talk with Jim Sigmon. He has a special story of what God is doing in his life.
Isidro picked me up and we were off to Cuerpo Vivo church for worship and for me to share about Nica again. I love worshiping with Cuerpo Vivo. Similar to Nica style. Always authentic and open. No worries about what others might think, you just openly worship.
After church, JP and Noemi invited me to lunch with them. We went to a little restaurant named Juanitas. It's a small place with a limited and delicious menu. JP and I ordered the burritos and had a contest to see if we could finish the humongous things! We even took a before pic of us holding up our plates. I got carried away with talking and ate the whole thing. I was so stuffed. Of course, JP finished his before me, but it was fun and yummy.
Sweet Kearsten picked me up for church tonight. She and Kaylie and I were sharing with FBCR about serving in Nica. They were interns this past summer. I love them both very much. They are very special ladies. They were a little nervous about speaking in front of everyone with a microphone, but they did great. I got started talking and spoke way over my allotted time. I had so much on my heart to share. I actually took my 10 minutes and then most of Bro Wes' sermon time! Everyone was very receptive of what God had laid on my lips to say. I felt bad for messing up the schedule and apologized to Bro Wes and Mark. I hope they know that I'm not disrespectful of their guidelines for speaking in the service. The Spirit moved, and my mouth kept going. God blessed the service and I enjoyed very much, the Saints Alive (Sr Adult) Choir. They are always pleasing to the ear and heart.
I have a ton of work to get done tomorrow and many appointments this week. Time is ticking away. God has many plans to be accomplished. I just need to keep my focus on Him.
I am so blessed to have this life that God allows me. I know I say that a lot, but I just have to give Him thanks for it. I pray that I do not take anything for granted. He alone is worthy of my efforts and thoughts and words and actions. May He be glorified through all.
Saturday morning I met up with 26 other people of Cuerpo Vivo church to go to Carthage MO to minister to a sweet family that they have been in contact with. We took lunch for everyone and also groceries to leave with the family. We spent time visiting and praying with them. It was such a nice time. On the way home, we drove through part of Joplin to see the progress at one of the apartment complexes that Cuerpo Vivo had worked with in the weeks after the Tornado. It was my first time to see the damage, since I couldn't go before. It was heartbreaking to think of all of the families who were effected by the storms. And the length of time that it will take to get back to 'normal', whatever normal is. It was interesting to hear the kids talking about how much cleaner the streets were and be happy that some of the houses were being rebuilt. A very moving trip.
I was invited to one a birthday dinner for one of the Cuerpo Vivo families. We had carnitas and rice. So yummy! Of course, I ate too much. I just don't have good sense, or maybe my tastebuds are hyper and over ride my logic. Anyway, it was good!
This morning, I rode with Deanna to FBC Rogers so I could speak with the ABF class that I'm assigned to. After some minor technical difficulties (mostly me not being technical savvy at all) we got my slide to show up on the TV. I hope I didn't bore the ladies too much, but they seemed to enjoy hearing about serving in missions. Time went by too fast and it was time to go. I waited for my ride to Cuerpo Vivo to pick me up and had a chance to chat with some people at FBCR that I don't usually get to talk with. It was wonderful to talk with Jim Sigmon. He has a special story of what God is doing in his life.
Isidro picked me up and we were off to Cuerpo Vivo church for worship and for me to share about Nica again. I love worshiping with Cuerpo Vivo. Similar to Nica style. Always authentic and open. No worries about what others might think, you just openly worship.
After church, JP and Noemi invited me to lunch with them. We went to a little restaurant named Juanitas. It's a small place with a limited and delicious menu. JP and I ordered the burritos and had a contest to see if we could finish the humongous things! We even took a before pic of us holding up our plates. I got carried away with talking and ate the whole thing. I was so stuffed. Of course, JP finished his before me, but it was fun and yummy.
Sweet Kearsten picked me up for church tonight. She and Kaylie and I were sharing with FBCR about serving in Nica. They were interns this past summer. I love them both very much. They are very special ladies. They were a little nervous about speaking in front of everyone with a microphone, but they did great. I got started talking and spoke way over my allotted time. I had so much on my heart to share. I actually took my 10 minutes and then most of Bro Wes' sermon time! Everyone was very receptive of what God had laid on my lips to say. I felt bad for messing up the schedule and apologized to Bro Wes and Mark. I hope they know that I'm not disrespectful of their guidelines for speaking in the service. The Spirit moved, and my mouth kept going. God blessed the service and I enjoyed very much, the Saints Alive (Sr Adult) Choir. They are always pleasing to the ear and heart.
I have a ton of work to get done tomorrow and many appointments this week. Time is ticking away. God has many plans to be accomplished. I just need to keep my focus on Him.
I am so blessed to have this life that God allows me. I know I say that a lot, but I just have to give Him thanks for it. I pray that I do not take anything for granted. He alone is worthy of my efforts and thoughts and words and actions. May He be glorified through all.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Friday, August 11, 2010
It's Friday night and I've had a grand day!
It was a little rainy this morning, so I didn't walk, but did a workout video instead. Heidi and her kids picked me up this morning to go to the Olive St church for the ministries that go on there on Friday.
I was able to spend a little time with Shirley McGimpsey at the Food Pantry. They have picked up in number of families helped each month. They are now averaging 100 families a month. Food and money to buy food is a major need. Also, volunteers to talk with the guests and share the Gospel. Sam, who is a usual Friday volunteer, was there, too. So I got to speak to him a little bit, too.
When I got over to the kitchen, Bobbi and her boys, along with Elizabeth Janes, were already at work in the kitchen. Heidi's kids are also faithful volunteers and work hard to get the place set up for the guests. Becca had provided a great menu and the Kimball's buy from her shopping list and drop off the food to the kitchen by Thursday night. It works out great.
We fed around 75 people today. The food was yummy. Besides the baked Ziti, bread, green beans and dessert made by our volunteers, Lupe brought some food donated from Abuelos, so we added 2 kinds of soup and mexican mashed potatoes. A really nice spread. We had lots of thank yous and good food comments from our guests. Many come each week to visit with each other while getting some yummy food.
We had some really hard workers and the kitchen was cleaned up in no time. The volunteers are great at their jobs and the kids work harder than most adults I know. There is need for volunteers to help set up, cook, serve, greet, evangelize and clean up. About 6 people a week is a good amount of workers, since the kids are homeschooled and can wok every Friday. Cuerpo Vivo sends some great volunteers, too. It's so nice to see both churches working together to minister to the community.
A girl from Cuerpo Vivo does free haircuts during the time of the meals. It's a great service for people. There was a slight issue with the administration of the church about doing the haircuts, but after the proper paperwork was filed in the church office, we were allowed to bless people as needed. I get impatient with redtape and jumping through hoops, so it's a good thing that I get to serve in a thirdworld country most of the time now. :)
Tomorrow I get to go with the Cuerpo Vivo group to Missouri to minister along side a church and to families that were affected by the tornado earlier in the spring. I asked if it was okay for a gringa to come along. I was told that I'm part of Cuerpo Vivo, so I'm more hispanic than beans. I think that's the nicest thing that anyone has said to me in a long time!!!
Time for bed so I can get up early and head to Missouri with my friends. So much fun I'm having these 2 months of vacationing in the states! ha God is so good to me!
It was a little rainy this morning, so I didn't walk, but did a workout video instead. Heidi and her kids picked me up this morning to go to the Olive St church for the ministries that go on there on Friday.
I was able to spend a little time with Shirley McGimpsey at the Food Pantry. They have picked up in number of families helped each month. They are now averaging 100 families a month. Food and money to buy food is a major need. Also, volunteers to talk with the guests and share the Gospel. Sam, who is a usual Friday volunteer, was there, too. So I got to speak to him a little bit, too.
When I got over to the kitchen, Bobbi and her boys, along with Elizabeth Janes, were already at work in the kitchen. Heidi's kids are also faithful volunteers and work hard to get the place set up for the guests. Becca had provided a great menu and the Kimball's buy from her shopping list and drop off the food to the kitchen by Thursday night. It works out great.
We fed around 75 people today. The food was yummy. Besides the baked Ziti, bread, green beans and dessert made by our volunteers, Lupe brought some food donated from Abuelos, so we added 2 kinds of soup and mexican mashed potatoes. A really nice spread. We had lots of thank yous and good food comments from our guests. Many come each week to visit with each other while getting some yummy food.
We had some really hard workers and the kitchen was cleaned up in no time. The volunteers are great at their jobs and the kids work harder than most adults I know. There is need for volunteers to help set up, cook, serve, greet, evangelize and clean up. About 6 people a week is a good amount of workers, since the kids are homeschooled and can wok every Friday. Cuerpo Vivo sends some great volunteers, too. It's so nice to see both churches working together to minister to the community.
A girl from Cuerpo Vivo does free haircuts during the time of the meals. It's a great service for people. There was a slight issue with the administration of the church about doing the haircuts, but after the proper paperwork was filed in the church office, we were allowed to bless people as needed. I get impatient with redtape and jumping through hoops, so it's a good thing that I get to serve in a thirdworld country most of the time now. :)
Tomorrow I get to go with the Cuerpo Vivo group to Missouri to minister along side a church and to families that were affected by the tornado earlier in the spring. I asked if it was okay for a gringa to come along. I was told that I'm part of Cuerpo Vivo, so I'm more hispanic than beans. I think that's the nicest thing that anyone has said to me in a long time!!!
Time for bed so I can get up early and head to Missouri with my friends. So much fun I'm having these 2 months of vacationing in the states! ha God is so good to me!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Thursday, August 11, 2011
The week is over halfway through. It won't be long before I'm gone to Nica again. I'm trying to get as much done in these weeks as possible and I sometimes find myself feeling like a dog going in circles chasing its tail. Only God can order my steps to make my days efficient and effective and appropriate. Gotta keep my focus on Him.
Monday was my first time back at Staff meeting at FBCR. Bro Tommy has retired, as well as Raleigh. Jerry and Matt have signed on as the newest staff members. The majority of the staff have only been there 4 years or less. It's a whole new bunch of people every time I'm back in the country, it seems. :)
Janalynn had picked me up for lunch before the staff meeting and we enjoyed some Chik-Fil-A. I love their chargrilled wraps! After the meeting, she ran me by Walmart to pick up my site-to-store order and grab a few groceries. It's so nice to have friends to run me around! I had ordered a sewing machine to take to Nica to use for sewing classes and for us to make stuff.
Tuesday and Wednesday I spent on the computer getting stuff done. There are so many things to take care of. I love doing what God allows for me. I'm so excited about the ministry in Nica. I'm going to enjoy every minute of this season of my life.
Today, I caught a ride with Teresa over to the Olive St church. I was blessed to share with the ladies of Women on Mission at their planning meeting. Brian Dunaway came over early to help me get a projector hooked up to my computer to show my slides. He is so wonderful to help with every request. The meeting was informative regarding their plans for next year. I enjoyed the ladies very much.
Oliver and Erika Martinez were celebrating their 10th anniversary today and asked if I would watch the kids for them to go out for lunch and have a little date. They picked me up from the church after my meeting and we stopped by fast food to grab lunch for me and the kids and then came home to Deanna's. The kids loved the puppies (who we are sitting for the week) and played with them for hours. The pups are 3 months old and full of energy. They did really well with the kids and the kids did good with them. Jet even got in on the playtime. It was overcast and relatively cool (70s) so we spent a lot of time out on the back patio. Oliver and Erika said they had a good date. The kids never want to go home. I told Oliver that I'm happy to watch the kids anytime they want. They need some Couple time more often.
Today I didn't get the chance to walk or workout and I feel like a slug. Tomorrow morning I hope to either walk (if it's not raining) or do my workout before I go to the church. I may even walk to the church. We'll see.
I'm ready to help at the Food Pantry and the Community Meals tomorrow. It will be great to see everyone and see how the ministries are going. Things here always feel the same and different when I come back. Sort of surreal. Keeps me thinking about how time is fleeting and life is always changing and that only God knows and sees each day of the future. And we shouldn't get too settled into routines of our own making.
Life is an adventure and God can make it awesome if we only focus on and trust in Him.
Monday was my first time back at Staff meeting at FBCR. Bro Tommy has retired, as well as Raleigh. Jerry and Matt have signed on as the newest staff members. The majority of the staff have only been there 4 years or less. It's a whole new bunch of people every time I'm back in the country, it seems. :)
Janalynn had picked me up for lunch before the staff meeting and we enjoyed some Chik-Fil-A. I love their chargrilled wraps! After the meeting, she ran me by Walmart to pick up my site-to-store order and grab a few groceries. It's so nice to have friends to run me around! I had ordered a sewing machine to take to Nica to use for sewing classes and for us to make stuff.
Tuesday and Wednesday I spent on the computer getting stuff done. There are so many things to take care of. I love doing what God allows for me. I'm so excited about the ministry in Nica. I'm going to enjoy every minute of this season of my life.
Today, I caught a ride with Teresa over to the Olive St church. I was blessed to share with the ladies of Women on Mission at their planning meeting. Brian Dunaway came over early to help me get a projector hooked up to my computer to show my slides. He is so wonderful to help with every request. The meeting was informative regarding their plans for next year. I enjoyed the ladies very much.
Oliver and Erika Martinez were celebrating their 10th anniversary today and asked if I would watch the kids for them to go out for lunch and have a little date. They picked me up from the church after my meeting and we stopped by fast food to grab lunch for me and the kids and then came home to Deanna's. The kids loved the puppies (who we are sitting for the week) and played with them for hours. The pups are 3 months old and full of energy. They did really well with the kids and the kids did good with them. Jet even got in on the playtime. It was overcast and relatively cool (70s) so we spent a lot of time out on the back patio. Oliver and Erika said they had a good date. The kids never want to go home. I told Oliver that I'm happy to watch the kids anytime they want. They need some Couple time more often.
Today I didn't get the chance to walk or workout and I feel like a slug. Tomorrow morning I hope to either walk (if it's not raining) or do my workout before I go to the church. I may even walk to the church. We'll see.
I'm ready to help at the Food Pantry and the Community Meals tomorrow. It will be great to see everyone and see how the ministries are going. Things here always feel the same and different when I come back. Sort of surreal. Keeps me thinking about how time is fleeting and life is always changing and that only God knows and sees each day of the future. And we shouldn't get too settled into routines of our own making.
Life is an adventure and God can make it awesome if we only focus on and trust in Him.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Sunday night and I can't believe the weekend is over already. Time is flying by.
Friday I had a good walk in the morning and then working on the computer most of the day. I went to bed early so that I could get up early for my busy Saturday.
I had planned to walk on Saturday morning, but I realized that I would be getting a good workout during the day at the Christian Women's Job Corps. My friend Nichole picked me up and dropped me off at the CWJC site. I enjoyed the next 5 hours helping to prep and prime walls for painting and pulling up old carpet. It was fun and I got to meet some new people. I enjoyed chatting with Pamela, too. I came home and grabbed a nap. Then I worked on the computer for a while. I love having the internet at my fingertips!
This morning I got up a little later than planned, so I only had time to walk 3.5 miles, but it sure felt good! JP and Noemi and Genesis picked me up for church. We went in early and I got to listen to the Praise Team rehearse. I loved it. It was so good to see my Cuerpo Vivo church family. I so much enjoyed worshiping with them today. Isidro was gracious enough to bring me home. I grabbed some lunch and did a little Bible Study, a little Spanish study and then took a good nap. I have been trying to catch up on my rest while I'm back in AR. I seem to be tired a lot in Nica and it's good to nap anytime I want here.
I ate too much for lunch, so this evening I just had some yogurt and fruit. I need to concentrate on healthy eating again. I feel like a kid in a candy store with so many of my favorite things so readily available. I need to exercise some discipline!
I'm glad to get so much accomplished last week. There is still so much to do and I only have 7.5 weeks left before I head back to Nica for 3 months. So much to do, so much to do...
I'm thankful to my Lord for all He allows me to experience when serving Him. I feel like I have such a blessed life. I'm so thankful that He allows me to feel comfortable in situations that others choose not to live in. He prepares me mentally and spiritually for the things He has planned for me. He is so faithful in providing for me and for making me only want what He has planned for me. I pray that I will always stay in tune with HIS plans for me.
Friday I had a good walk in the morning and then working on the computer most of the day. I went to bed early so that I could get up early for my busy Saturday.
I had planned to walk on Saturday morning, but I realized that I would be getting a good workout during the day at the Christian Women's Job Corps. My friend Nichole picked me up and dropped me off at the CWJC site. I enjoyed the next 5 hours helping to prep and prime walls for painting and pulling up old carpet. It was fun and I got to meet some new people. I enjoyed chatting with Pamela, too. I came home and grabbed a nap. Then I worked on the computer for a while. I love having the internet at my fingertips!
This morning I got up a little later than planned, so I only had time to walk 3.5 miles, but it sure felt good! JP and Noemi and Genesis picked me up for church. We went in early and I got to listen to the Praise Team rehearse. I loved it. It was so good to see my Cuerpo Vivo church family. I so much enjoyed worshiping with them today. Isidro was gracious enough to bring me home. I grabbed some lunch and did a little Bible Study, a little Spanish study and then took a good nap. I have been trying to catch up on my rest while I'm back in AR. I seem to be tired a lot in Nica and it's good to nap anytime I want here.
I ate too much for lunch, so this evening I just had some yogurt and fruit. I need to concentrate on healthy eating again. I feel like a kid in a candy store with so many of my favorite things so readily available. I need to exercise some discipline!
I'm glad to get so much accomplished last week. There is still so much to do and I only have 7.5 weeks left before I head back to Nica for 3 months. So much to do, so much to do...
I'm thankful to my Lord for all He allows me to experience when serving Him. I feel like I have such a blessed life. I'm so thankful that He allows me to feel comfortable in situations that others choose not to live in. He prepares me mentally and spiritually for the things He has planned for me. He is so faithful in providing for me and for making me only want what He has planned for me. I pray that I will always stay in tune with HIS plans for me.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Monday (8/1) we flew back to Rogers. Our travel went really well. It was tiring since we had to leave the team house at 3am. The funniest thing was when Mike mistook the message signal on his cell phone for the alarm, and they showed up at the team house to pick us up 2 hours early. I was awake reading when the pulled in at 12:45am to load our luggage on the van. They wondered why the place was so dark. Funny moment, but one to make us more tired... But it was a good day of travel.
Connie McKnight picked me up at the airport and took me to Walmart to get some groceries. I got home about 6pm and was very tired. It was good to see Deanna and Jet. Lucy Alice, the cat, didn't bother to come out of hiding to greet me. I went to bed fairly early (for me) and slept almost 7 hours. I haven't slept that much in ages! I got up and went for a 4.5 mile walk. It felt good, even though I was still physically tired. I showered, had some carrot/orange juice and then got busy on the computer and worked for 10 hours straight. I wanted to take a nap, but I couldn't stop my mind and was so excited to have access to the internet, that I kept right on working.
Wednesday, I went on my morning walk again. It love it! I got busy taking care of a lot of computer work again. Shana Olinger came over to meet about some opps for serving in Nica. We had a great talk and I'm excited to be able to use her Battle Gear Bible Study in Nica in the future. I'm also excited that she is planning on coming to Nica in October.
Today, I had to skip my walk because of needing to leave the house before 7am. Avis was gracious enough to give me a ride to the Olive St church so I could pick up my 2 month's worth of mail and then go to Nana Ruth's house to borrow her van. I ran by the bank to deposit my August support check. Then I was off to Springdale for a doctor appointment. It was good to see Dr. Bob and he had good advice for my malady. Good news was that I have lost some weight this summer and my bloodpressure was lower than it has been in years!! woot woot!
I stopped by the sale at the Samaritan Store. I had fun running into Mary Ann, ML and Mary Lou. I found some good bargains to take back to Nica. I got a few pieces of clothing for myself, too. Then I picked up some lunch for myself and some items for Nana Ruth on my way to her house. After I dropped her off at work, I went by Dollar General in Bentonville, and Deals in Rogers looking for some bottle holders like I use in Nica. I didn't find them, but I found some good bargains on toys to take to Nica.
I was going to wait until Saturday to take advantage of the Tax-Free shopping. I would need to find a ride and hope that they would want to go in the middle of the night to avoid the crowds. Since I had the van today, I decided that buying my stuff today would be a good idea. It was worth the cost of the taxes to avoid having to go back on Sat and trying to workout the logistics. I was glad to get the stuff and get that list off of my mental list. I found some great deals (even clearance) on things on my list. I was so excited. I picked up a lamp, George Forman grill, towels, shower curtain, towels/washcloths, dishes, exercise equipment, rugs, over the door organizer, walking shorts, power strips/surge protectors, etc for my room in Nica. I've got most of the stuff I want to take down. I'm going to buy/make a curtain for my room, so I'll figure that out later. I can't wait to fix up my room when I get there. I'm going to buy a rocking chair and a table and chair to use as a desk. It's gonna be awesome!
I bought a sewing machine to take to Nica for our new women's ministry to use with the ladies. It was a great deal and I can take it as a carryon on one of my trips. I also found out today that I will be getting a bicycle to take as an extra baggage item. I'm gonna love it!!! It even has a basket. Miss Allie Ruth is going to give me her bike horn that someone gave her for her walker. I will think of her whenever I see it! I just need to get a helmet and good bike lock to take with me.
After my Walmart visit, I got my haircut and was blessed to chat with Carolyn. Then I stopped by The Pink Bag consignment store and found a few items to take to Nica. I took all my goodies home, grabbed a sandwich and then sped off to Bentonville to pick up Nana Ruth after work. We came back by Sonic for her dinner and then we went to Harp's and I ran in and picked up a few groceries for her. My ride picked me up on the street corner near Nana Ruth's. While waiting to be picked up, I got the chance to talk with Erika Zamarrón and her mother Elizabeth, as well as some of the kids. So nice to see them. My ride came and we were off to Miss Georgia's house for the Naomi Sunday School Class's meeting. 17 of my favorite ladies were gathered and I enjoyed them very much. They allowed me to share with them about Voice of Hope and all the things that God is doing in Nica. They are wonderful, generous women, who help to support me each month. Their prayers and support mean the world to me. I'm very blessed to know them.
I can't believe how much I got done today with the use of a car. I've been very blessed today. It is nice to get my list checked off and clear my mind for other things. I get to stay home the next 2 days (unless something interesting comes up) and get some serious computer and personal stuff done. I'll get to walk each morning and maybe even take a nap!
God is blessing my socks off and I don't deserve it at all. He is so gracious. I'm so thankful to share my love of Him with whoever will listen! I love You Lord.
Connie McKnight picked me up at the airport and took me to Walmart to get some groceries. I got home about 6pm and was very tired. It was good to see Deanna and Jet. Lucy Alice, the cat, didn't bother to come out of hiding to greet me. I went to bed fairly early (for me) and slept almost 7 hours. I haven't slept that much in ages! I got up and went for a 4.5 mile walk. It felt good, even though I was still physically tired. I showered, had some carrot/orange juice and then got busy on the computer and worked for 10 hours straight. I wanted to take a nap, but I couldn't stop my mind and was so excited to have access to the internet, that I kept right on working.
Wednesday, I went on my morning walk again. It love it! I got busy taking care of a lot of computer work again. Shana Olinger came over to meet about some opps for serving in Nica. We had a great talk and I'm excited to be able to use her Battle Gear Bible Study in Nica in the future. I'm also excited that she is planning on coming to Nica in October.
Today, I had to skip my walk because of needing to leave the house before 7am. Avis was gracious enough to give me a ride to the Olive St church so I could pick up my 2 month's worth of mail and then go to Nana Ruth's house to borrow her van. I ran by the bank to deposit my August support check. Then I was off to Springdale for a doctor appointment. It was good to see Dr. Bob and he had good advice for my malady. Good news was that I have lost some weight this summer and my bloodpressure was lower than it has been in years!! woot woot!
I stopped by the sale at the Samaritan Store. I had fun running into Mary Ann, ML and Mary Lou. I found some good bargains to take back to Nica. I got a few pieces of clothing for myself, too. Then I picked up some lunch for myself and some items for Nana Ruth on my way to her house. After I dropped her off at work, I went by Dollar General in Bentonville, and Deals in Rogers looking for some bottle holders like I use in Nica. I didn't find them, but I found some good bargains on toys to take to Nica.
I was going to wait until Saturday to take advantage of the Tax-Free shopping. I would need to find a ride and hope that they would want to go in the middle of the night to avoid the crowds. Since I had the van today, I decided that buying my stuff today would be a good idea. It was worth the cost of the taxes to avoid having to go back on Sat and trying to workout the logistics. I was glad to get the stuff and get that list off of my mental list. I found some great deals (even clearance) on things on my list. I was so excited. I picked up a lamp, George Forman grill, towels, shower curtain, towels/washcloths, dishes, exercise equipment, rugs, over the door organizer, walking shorts, power strips/surge protectors, etc for my room in Nica. I've got most of the stuff I want to take down. I'm going to buy/make a curtain for my room, so I'll figure that out later. I can't wait to fix up my room when I get there. I'm going to buy a rocking chair and a table and chair to use as a desk. It's gonna be awesome!
I bought a sewing machine to take to Nica for our new women's ministry to use with the ladies. It was a great deal and I can take it as a carryon on one of my trips. I also found out today that I will be getting a bicycle to take as an extra baggage item. I'm gonna love it!!! It even has a basket. Miss Allie Ruth is going to give me her bike horn that someone gave her for her walker. I will think of her whenever I see it! I just need to get a helmet and good bike lock to take with me.
After my Walmart visit, I got my haircut and was blessed to chat with Carolyn. Then I stopped by The Pink Bag consignment store and found a few items to take to Nica. I took all my goodies home, grabbed a sandwich and then sped off to Bentonville to pick up Nana Ruth after work. We came back by Sonic for her dinner and then we went to Harp's and I ran in and picked up a few groceries for her. My ride picked me up on the street corner near Nana Ruth's. While waiting to be picked up, I got the chance to talk with Erika Zamarrón and her mother Elizabeth, as well as some of the kids. So nice to see them. My ride came and we were off to Miss Georgia's house for the Naomi Sunday School Class's meeting. 17 of my favorite ladies were gathered and I enjoyed them very much. They allowed me to share with them about Voice of Hope and all the things that God is doing in Nica. They are wonderful, generous women, who help to support me each month. Their prayers and support mean the world to me. I'm very blessed to know them.
I can't believe how much I got done today with the use of a car. I've been very blessed today. It is nice to get my list checked off and clear my mind for other things. I get to stay home the next 2 days (unless something interesting comes up) and get some serious computer and personal stuff done. I'll get to walk each morning and maybe even take a nap!
God is blessing my socks off and I don't deserve it at all. He is so gracious. I'm so thankful to share my love of Him with whoever will listen! I love You Lord.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)