I’m back in Nica!!! It feels like I never left! Which makes my emotional rollercoaster a little bit more crazy! Ha
I got up at 3:30am and got showered and dressed. My stomach wasn’t awake and was a little queasy, so I skipped breakfast and just drank part of a Sprite on the way to the airport. Becca was so sweet to pick me up this morning and drive me to the airport. I was a little concerned that I might have to take stuff out of my suitcases and she was a trooper and parked the van to come in with me just in case I needed her to take stuff back with her. We moved some items between the suitcases to make them acceptable and I got to keep everything with me. Yay! We said our goodbyes and I headed for security.
I got all checked in and ate a scone and water before heading to my gate, which was in the newest part of the airport. It was nice.
My flight to Atlanta was good. We arrived 30 minutes early. It’s the first time that I have flown Delta to Nica and I have to say that the customer service all day long was good. I may have to fly Delta more often! Since we got to Atlanta early, I got to have some hot breakfast/brunch before heading to Nica. That plane was about 30 minutes late leaving, but the flight was good. I dozed a little bit on each plane since the seat next to me was empty. Good trip.
Mike and German met me at the Managua airport. We rode back to León in the new little SUV that replaces ChinChin. The new car doesn’t have a name yet. It doesn’t have a lot of power, but get great gas milage and has 4 wheel drive and is higher up from the road, so it will be good on the rutted roads. It was a nice ride to the Mission House.
Alberto, Sherry, Manuel and Buster (the dog) greeted me. It was so good to get here! The first thing I did was change from my warm up pants and shirt into shorts and t-shirt and flip flops! I talked with Sherry and Mike for a little bit while Manuel had school (he’s homeschooled here at the Mission House) and then Manuel and I played together.
After the Hulsey’s left, I started unpacking my suitcases. It’s not all put away yet, but the suitcases are empty and stowed away. There was some yummy grilled chicken, mashed potatoes and green beans left from lunch for my dinner. Of course I ate them cold (my favorite) while unpacking.
I unpacked the 4 Walkie Talkie’s that I brought down and got them set up to charge overnight. We will have fun trying them out tomorrow.
About 7:30 I put a movie in my computer and just rested and enjoyed some entertainment. I’m going to read a little bit and go to sleep early.
Sherry and Manuel will be here early in the morning, as well as Lesly. It will be fun. I hope I wake up extra early so I can go walking. I have not been walking for my exercise in almost 2 months! I need to get back into a healthy routine!!!
I’m glad to be back. I know it will be tiring sometimes, but I’m so thankful to get to be here to serve. My friends in the states seem a lifetime away, but I can keep up with everyone through Facebook and emails, so we’ll be connected.
I’m so thankful for my Lord for letting me live here and serve here. There is much work to do with the ministry and we are grateful that God is opening so many doors for us. We’re praying for more and more workers. It’s awesome!
Time for prayers and bed. Counting my blessings.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Monday, February 27, 2012
Monday, February 27, 2012
What a whirlwind week this has been. My last full week in the states and many things were squeezed into it because of traveling to IN twice. But it's been so much fun!
A Dr Appointment started Tuesday, followed by a luncheon with Deanna's Bible Study small group and then frozen yogurt with Connie.
Wednesday I worked like a crazy woman on packing tubs and on the computer and then joined the ladies of Cuerpo Vivo church to write cards and letters to the Nica women and have ice cream sundaes. Yum!
Thursday started out with a haircut, errands and lunch with Angela, babysitting for Genesis and having dinner with the Janes family. It was a full day and lots of fun!
Friday I had lunch with Janalynn and she dropped me off at Nana Ruth's house to get her van and grocery list. Then I went shopping at Walmart for Nana Ruth's groceries and my final list for Nica. Then I took some tubs to the church and got the groceries back to Nana Ruth. I was very tired, but glad to have many things off of my to-do list. Nana Ruth and I had dinner at Red Lobster and it was wonderful!
Saturday, Zandra picked me up early to go to her mother's house for a visit that we have been planning for over 20 years. There was always something coming up and we finally made it! Zandra's daughter, Hannah and her friend joined us and it was great. Dolly has a basement filled with sewing and craft materials and supplies. It was a wonderland to play in. I loved it. She showed me some ideas that the ladies in Nica can make. I hope I get to visit again someday and play in that basement!
Sunday was sweet worship at Cuerpo Vivo church. At the end of the service, the congregation prayed over me and the ministry in Nica. I always love the sending out that I get from that church. We then enjoyed pizza and salad as a fund-raiser meal for missions. I got home and rested for just a few minutes before being picked up by Donna and Celina for the Nica team meeting at FBC Rogers. I'm excited for the team to come to Nica in just a few weeks.
All week I've been half goofy trying to get all the details taken care of. I've left my purse at church, my cell phone at the other church, put clothes in the dryer and forgot to turn it on, walked into and out of rooms constantly forgetting what I went in there for, etc. I know that it's normal to do these things occasionally, and I have done that in the past, but it seems that I'm doing it over and over and frequently this week. I just hope that I don't forget something important!
Two months have flown by since I've returned from Nica. My father passed away, my niece got married, I made 2 trips to Indiana in 5 weeks, been on 10 planes in 6 weeks (with 2 more coming up tomorrow), shared about Nica and VOH ministry countless times and enjoyed friends and family.
It's been a good visit and it's hard to leave. But I'm excited to get back to Nica, too. It can be an emotional rollercoaster, even minute by minute. I think it's one of the hardest parts about traveling back and forth so much. It seemed easier when I lived fulltime in NYC for 2 years. I only came back to AR for a week at a time. Coming back to the states for 2 months at a time is disorienting. I think traveling to IN for a few weeks in the middle of the stateside time helps I think. I just have to trust God to hold my mind and heart close so that I can rely on Him for my emotions.
There are a lot of wonderful things going on with the ministry lately. There are always challenges, but we trust God to help us persevere through them. It is so sweet to see fruit from our work and to have doors open wide. God has been so faithful to us and we give Him all the glory for all that He has allowed to be accomplished through our lowly efforts.
Time to talk to the 'Coach' and get my game face on. As hard as it is to leave friends here in Rogers, I can't wait to get busy back in Nica. Six months will feel like a long time in some ways (lack of creature comforts of the US, often feeling tired, being away from AR friends, etc) and it will fly by in other ways (weeks filled with teaching classes, a summer full of mission teams - sometimes back to back, many people to spend time with, etc). God has filled my life with many experiences and people. I am truly blessed!!!
A Dr Appointment started Tuesday, followed by a luncheon with Deanna's Bible Study small group and then frozen yogurt with Connie.
Wednesday I worked like a crazy woman on packing tubs and on the computer and then joined the ladies of Cuerpo Vivo church to write cards and letters to the Nica women and have ice cream sundaes. Yum!
Thursday started out with a haircut, errands and lunch with Angela, babysitting for Genesis and having dinner with the Janes family. It was a full day and lots of fun!
Friday I had lunch with Janalynn and she dropped me off at Nana Ruth's house to get her van and grocery list. Then I went shopping at Walmart for Nana Ruth's groceries and my final list for Nica. Then I took some tubs to the church and got the groceries back to Nana Ruth. I was very tired, but glad to have many things off of my to-do list. Nana Ruth and I had dinner at Red Lobster and it was wonderful!
Saturday, Zandra picked me up early to go to her mother's house for a visit that we have been planning for over 20 years. There was always something coming up and we finally made it! Zandra's daughter, Hannah and her friend joined us and it was great. Dolly has a basement filled with sewing and craft materials and supplies. It was a wonderland to play in. I loved it. She showed me some ideas that the ladies in Nica can make. I hope I get to visit again someday and play in that basement!
Sunday was sweet worship at Cuerpo Vivo church. At the end of the service, the congregation prayed over me and the ministry in Nica. I always love the sending out that I get from that church. We then enjoyed pizza and salad as a fund-raiser meal for missions. I got home and rested for just a few minutes before being picked up by Donna and Celina for the Nica team meeting at FBC Rogers. I'm excited for the team to come to Nica in just a few weeks.
All week I've been half goofy trying to get all the details taken care of. I've left my purse at church, my cell phone at the other church, put clothes in the dryer and forgot to turn it on, walked into and out of rooms constantly forgetting what I went in there for, etc. I know that it's normal to do these things occasionally, and I have done that in the past, but it seems that I'm doing it over and over and frequently this week. I just hope that I don't forget something important!
Two months have flown by since I've returned from Nica. My father passed away, my niece got married, I made 2 trips to Indiana in 5 weeks, been on 10 planes in 6 weeks (with 2 more coming up tomorrow), shared about Nica and VOH ministry countless times and enjoyed friends and family.
It's been a good visit and it's hard to leave. But I'm excited to get back to Nica, too. It can be an emotional rollercoaster, even minute by minute. I think it's one of the hardest parts about traveling back and forth so much. It seemed easier when I lived fulltime in NYC for 2 years. I only came back to AR for a week at a time. Coming back to the states for 2 months at a time is disorienting. I think traveling to IN for a few weeks in the middle of the stateside time helps I think. I just have to trust God to hold my mind and heart close so that I can rely on Him for my emotions.
There are a lot of wonderful things going on with the ministry lately. There are always challenges, but we trust God to help us persevere through them. It is so sweet to see fruit from our work and to have doors open wide. God has been so faithful to us and we give Him all the glory for all that He has allowed to be accomplished through our lowly efforts.
Time to talk to the 'Coach' and get my game face on. As hard as it is to leave friends here in Rogers, I can't wait to get busy back in Nica. Six months will feel like a long time in some ways (lack of creature comforts of the US, often feeling tired, being away from AR friends, etc) and it will fly by in other ways (weeks filled with teaching classes, a summer full of mission teams - sometimes back to back, many people to spend time with, etc). God has filled my life with many experiences and people. I am truly blessed!!!
Monday, February 20, 2012
Monday, February 20, 2012
Well, it's been a week since I've been back in AR and it's been a busy and fun week. I'm trying to catch up on Nica work and tying up loose ends in AR for while I'm gone to Nica for 6 months. Going back and forth to Indiana twice in 5 weeks kind of put a kink in the timeline I had planned. But it's all good...
I received the 3 boxes of stuff that I had shipped to myself from Indiana, as well as a box of yarn from my sister Pam and some books from Amazon.com, all headed for Nicaragua. I picked up some items from Walmart to pack in tubs for Nica. I borrowed Nana Ruth's car one day to tote everything to the Olive Street church for storage until the March team carries them to Nica. Deanna couldn't believe everything was coming out of my room. I think I've got 12+ tubs already at the church. I also picked up more fabric from my friend Floys and took it to the stash. We're getting quite a cache of blessings to share! And I'm getting a good workout hauling those tubs around!
I enjoyed spending time with Nana Ruth on Friday. We got take out from Applebee's and ate at her house. Then I went shopping at Walmart with a list from Nana Ruth and a list from Sherry Hulsey and with an imaginary list in my head for me. It was a good trip and I enjoyed getting the things for other people. That's the best shopping!
I spent all day Saturday working at home, part of the time on the computer and part of the time moving stuff around in my room. Stuff, stuff, stuff... Sometimes I wish I didn't own anything at all. But I'm thankful to have what I need and open to getting rid of the stuff that I merely want. One of my favorite things is to give stuff away to people. That's what makes schlepping all these tubs to Nica so worth it. They are full of ordinary things to North Americans, but wonderful blessings to the people that we help through the ministry. A fun job!
Sunday was a beautiful morning of worship at Cuerpo Vivo. I'm so thankful to be able to understand more Spanish each week. (even though I haven't been studying. eek) I love the people of Cuerpo Vivo and am so proud of the church family for their love for each other and the lost, and for their commitment to reach out. I'm blessed to be able to worship with them.
After church, I went with JP, Noemi, Mark and Genesis to Liese's house for machacado, a favorite dish of Monterrey Mexico. It was really good. I ate way too much, but was very happy! I got home and even though I was fighting not to take a nap, I did fall asleep on the sofa for a short while. I missed going to church with Deanna, but I guess I needed the rest.
This morning I caught a ride with Kellie to the church, so that I could meet my friend Lindsey when she dropped off her daughter to Mother's Day Out. We went to Starbucks for coffee (I had Chai Tea Latte, YUM) and we talked about sponsorship of families and children in Nica. We had a wonderful time catching up. She's such a sweetie with an awesome heart for people. Her 6 month old son, Collier was with us and he's a real cutie!
I got home really pumped to keep on top of what needs to be done to keep up with what God's doing through VOH. It's such an encouragement to talk with others about the ministry. It fuels the fire in my heart for the work God let's me do.
I have multiple appointments this week and will keep hopping each day. I struggle with wondering if I've used my time wisely (and usually fall short of my expectations), but I need to remember that everything is to be in GOD's time and not to stress over it. He gives me mercy and grace to cover the things I don't get done and a peace that comes from trusting Him to always be there to guide me.
I received the 3 boxes of stuff that I had shipped to myself from Indiana, as well as a box of yarn from my sister Pam and some books from Amazon.com, all headed for Nicaragua. I picked up some items from Walmart to pack in tubs for Nica. I borrowed Nana Ruth's car one day to tote everything to the Olive Street church for storage until the March team carries them to Nica. Deanna couldn't believe everything was coming out of my room. I think I've got 12+ tubs already at the church. I also picked up more fabric from my friend Floys and took it to the stash. We're getting quite a cache of blessings to share! And I'm getting a good workout hauling those tubs around!
I enjoyed spending time with Nana Ruth on Friday. We got take out from Applebee's and ate at her house. Then I went shopping at Walmart with a list from Nana Ruth and a list from Sherry Hulsey and with an imaginary list in my head for me. It was a good trip and I enjoyed getting the things for other people. That's the best shopping!
I spent all day Saturday working at home, part of the time on the computer and part of the time moving stuff around in my room. Stuff, stuff, stuff... Sometimes I wish I didn't own anything at all. But I'm thankful to have what I need and open to getting rid of the stuff that I merely want. One of my favorite things is to give stuff away to people. That's what makes schlepping all these tubs to Nica so worth it. They are full of ordinary things to North Americans, but wonderful blessings to the people that we help through the ministry. A fun job!
Sunday was a beautiful morning of worship at Cuerpo Vivo. I'm so thankful to be able to understand more Spanish each week. (even though I haven't been studying. eek) I love the people of Cuerpo Vivo and am so proud of the church family for their love for each other and the lost, and for their commitment to reach out. I'm blessed to be able to worship with them.
After church, I went with JP, Noemi, Mark and Genesis to Liese's house for machacado, a favorite dish of Monterrey Mexico. It was really good. I ate way too much, but was very happy! I got home and even though I was fighting not to take a nap, I did fall asleep on the sofa for a short while. I missed going to church with Deanna, but I guess I needed the rest.
This morning I caught a ride with Kellie to the church, so that I could meet my friend Lindsey when she dropped off her daughter to Mother's Day Out. We went to Starbucks for coffee (I had Chai Tea Latte, YUM) and we talked about sponsorship of families and children in Nica. We had a wonderful time catching up. She's such a sweetie with an awesome heart for people. Her 6 month old son, Collier was with us and he's a real cutie!
I got home really pumped to keep on top of what needs to be done to keep up with what God's doing through VOH. It's such an encouragement to talk with others about the ministry. It fuels the fire in my heart for the work God let's me do.
I have multiple appointments this week and will keep hopping each day. I struggle with wondering if I've used my time wisely (and usually fall short of my expectations), but I need to remember that everything is to be in GOD's time and not to stress over it. He gives me mercy and grace to cover the things I don't get done and a peace that comes from trusting Him to always be there to guide me.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Monday, February 13, 2012
I’m catching up on my blog posts (for Thurs through today) while sitting at various airports as I travel back to AR from IN. I have to keep reminding myself where I am. When I get into reading a book or typing stuff for my blog or whatever, I get lost in thought and it always takes me a minute to realize where I am and what I’m doing.
It’s strange for me also to not really have a ‘home’. I call AR my home, since I have lived there for almost 22 years. My family are all in IN (and I was born and raised there for 33 years before moving to AR). I spend most of my year in Nicaragua, and actually have furniture there. I don’t mind at all not having lots of ‘stuff’ at any one place, in fact, I prefer that, but it feels weird never feeling attached to any one place permanently. I’m glad not to feel like I will ‘miss home’ when I’m traveling, but I do think that it does something to my mind not to be settled.
God has been working on my mind and heart a lot lately. I think He has some big plans in store for me this year. We’ll see. I’m game for anything, but the thought of some things does scare me a little. I’ll have to exercise my faith to make it as strong as possible.
I will have 2 weeks in AR to get ready for my 6 month stay in Nica. Taxes have to be computed and paid, ‘stuff’ needs to be sorted, organized, transported, sent and stored. Anything needing to be done before the middle of August has to be addressed before I leave the states on Feb 28. I hope I don’t forget anything! I have tons of emails, documents, Bible study, Spanish study, meetings and etc to take care of in these 2 weeks. But I’ve promised God that I won’t stress over any of it. I’m trusting Him. I just have to keep my focus on Him and not my self-made to-do lists.
I’m very content at the moment. It has been a good 2 weeks in IN with family. This is the first time in my life that I can honestly say that. I give God the glory for the healing going on. I pray that I don’t hinder any of it and that I’m faithful to what He wants me to do with regard to my family. There’s still a lot of healing to come, but nothing is too big for God!
I’m so thankful for the life He gives me and I pray that I glorify Him in everything. I know that that’s not possible in my lowly human life, but I strive for that. I’m so thankful that He is patient and longsuffering in His grace and mercy!
It’s strange for me also to not really have a ‘home’. I call AR my home, since I have lived there for almost 22 years. My family are all in IN (and I was born and raised there for 33 years before moving to AR). I spend most of my year in Nicaragua, and actually have furniture there. I don’t mind at all not having lots of ‘stuff’ at any one place, in fact, I prefer that, but it feels weird never feeling attached to any one place permanently. I’m glad not to feel like I will ‘miss home’ when I’m traveling, but I do think that it does something to my mind not to be settled.
God has been working on my mind and heart a lot lately. I think He has some big plans in store for me this year. We’ll see. I’m game for anything, but the thought of some things does scare me a little. I’ll have to exercise my faith to make it as strong as possible.
I will have 2 weeks in AR to get ready for my 6 month stay in Nica. Taxes have to be computed and paid, ‘stuff’ needs to be sorted, organized, transported, sent and stored. Anything needing to be done before the middle of August has to be addressed before I leave the states on Feb 28. I hope I don’t forget anything! I have tons of emails, documents, Bible study, Spanish study, meetings and etc to take care of in these 2 weeks. But I’ve promised God that I won’t stress over any of it. I’m trusting Him. I just have to keep my focus on Him and not my self-made to-do lists.
I’m very content at the moment. It has been a good 2 weeks in IN with family. This is the first time in my life that I can honestly say that. I give God the glory for the healing going on. I pray that I don’t hinder any of it and that I’m faithful to what He wants me to do with regard to my family. There’s still a lot of healing to come, but nothing is too big for God!
I’m so thankful for the life He gives me and I pray that I glorify Him in everything. I know that that’s not possible in my lowly human life, but I strive for that. I’m so thankful that He is patient and longsuffering in His grace and mercy!
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Wedding Day!!
Saturday morning, Stacey woke me up to drive her to the church to have the girls hair stuff start at 7:30am. One problem, no one told the pastor that we wanted the church that early. So we went back to Sandy’s and started on hair with the grandkids running around. It was quite the morning. I ran to the interstate to pick up Rob’s sister and bring her the rest of the way to the house. Then I got my shower and dressed and we all finally left for the church in shifts about 11:00am.
Pictures didn’t start on time, but everyone was finally at the church. The photographer was wonderful. Very sweet and calm and good at her job. I don’t think wedding pictures ever go smoothly, but I think we had a good chance of being in the top ten of unorganized groups!
Stacey looked absolutely smashing in her dress. She wore her hair up with curls. It was so pretty. I was hoping she would wear it that way. She is so not-girly and it was fun to see her all dressed up. She is a natural clothes horse and everything looks good on her. I got a good picture of her putting on her deodorant AFTER putting on her dress, so it’s a classic. The funniest thing was when she needed to pee and it took 3 bridesmaids to hold up her dress in the bathroom. That’s probably too much information for some of you, but it was funny and so fitting for our family. Pictures went well and finished just as some of the early guests were arriving. Everything seemed to be going well.
Just before the ceremony, Colten fell asleep and we left him napping in an adjacent room. My job was to cue the wedding party to go down the aisle, secure the aisle runner just before the flower girl and ring bearer (only one since Colten fell asleep) and then fluff Stacey’s dress and open the doors for her grand entrance. And, of course, watch the sleeping baby. I got to see part of the ceremony in between checking on Colten and I was brought to tears when the Pastor read the words that Stacey and Rob had given to him regarding ‘why I love _____’. The sentiments were not flowery, but true and honest and heartfelt and lovely. It was a such a beautiful ceremony with many references to how God has created that union and what the responsibilities are for each. The Pastor explained it so beautifully. It was not like the usual formalities. I can’t put into words the feeling, but I could truly feel the presence of God in the church. I’m so glad that Stacey is married into a Christian family. It just makes my heart sing.
Colten woke up at the end of the ceremony and was in time for more pictures. His eyes were huge wondering where all those people had come from! We took pics at the church while the guests drove into town to the reception at the Holiday Inn.
The reception was fun and we had good food and yummy cake and punch. There was a dance floor and after Rob and Stacey’s first dance, they had the wedding party come to the dance floor, but they weren’t too mobile. Except for the 5, 7, and 9 year old ring bearer and ushers. They had a blast break dancing (or their versions of it) and sliding around on the slick floor. They were so fun to watch.
At the time for Rob and Stacey to give each other a bite of cake, they of course tried to cram it into each other’s face, being the crazy couple that they are. Stacey ended up falling on the floor. It sounds like a bad moment, but it was so them!
The photographer did a good job of taking pictures around the room. There was lots of visiting and happy times. The DJ did a good job and kept the fun going. Rob and Stacey had the Honeymoon Suite for the night and left us to finish celebrating. They took one of the small layers of wedding cake to the room and chowed down.
We got the grandkids home and relaxed. It was nice to have all the hard work done and it was all worth it. I was in the thick of the wedding duties, but it still didn’t connect in my brain that Stacey was MARRIED. I’ll have to get used to that! Ha
Sandy (mother of the bride) looked beautiful in her dress. Terry, of course looked good in his tux (doesn’t every man?). The little boys wore vests and ties and looked adorable, especially 2 year old Colten. It was a lot of fun. I’m so happy for Rob and Stacey and the beginning of their family. What a lovely time!
Saturday morning, Stacey woke me up to drive her to the church to have the girls hair stuff start at 7:30am. One problem, no one told the pastor that we wanted the church that early. So we went back to Sandy’s and started on hair with the grandkids running around. It was quite the morning. I ran to the interstate to pick up Rob’s sister and bring her the rest of the way to the house. Then I got my shower and dressed and we all finally left for the church in shifts about 11:00am.
Pictures didn’t start on time, but everyone was finally at the church. The photographer was wonderful. Very sweet and calm and good at her job. I don’t think wedding pictures ever go smoothly, but I think we had a good chance of being in the top ten of unorganized groups!
Stacey looked absolutely smashing in her dress. She wore her hair up with curls. It was so pretty. I was hoping she would wear it that way. She is so not-girly and it was fun to see her all dressed up. She is a natural clothes horse and everything looks good on her. I got a good picture of her putting on her deodorant AFTER putting on her dress, so it’s a classic. The funniest thing was when she needed to pee and it took 3 bridesmaids to hold up her dress in the bathroom. That’s probably too much information for some of you, but it was funny and so fitting for our family. Pictures went well and finished just as some of the early guests were arriving. Everything seemed to be going well.
Just before the ceremony, Colten fell asleep and we left him napping in an adjacent room. My job was to cue the wedding party to go down the aisle, secure the aisle runner just before the flower girl and ring bearer (only one since Colten fell asleep) and then fluff Stacey’s dress and open the doors for her grand entrance. And, of course, watch the sleeping baby. I got to see part of the ceremony in between checking on Colten and I was brought to tears when the Pastor read the words that Stacey and Rob had given to him regarding ‘why I love _____’. The sentiments were not flowery, but true and honest and heartfelt and lovely. It was a such a beautiful ceremony with many references to how God has created that union and what the responsibilities are for each. The Pastor explained it so beautifully. It was not like the usual formalities. I can’t put into words the feeling, but I could truly feel the presence of God in the church. I’m so glad that Stacey is married into a Christian family. It just makes my heart sing.
Colten woke up at the end of the ceremony and was in time for more pictures. His eyes were huge wondering where all those people had come from! We took pics at the church while the guests drove into town to the reception at the Holiday Inn.
The reception was fun and we had good food and yummy cake and punch. There was a dance floor and after Rob and Stacey’s first dance, they had the wedding party come to the dance floor, but they weren’t too mobile. Except for the 5, 7, and 9 year old ring bearer and ushers. They had a blast break dancing (or their versions of it) and sliding around on the slick floor. They were so fun to watch.
At the time for Rob and Stacey to give each other a bite of cake, they of course tried to cram it into each other’s face, being the crazy couple that they are. Stacey ended up falling on the floor. It sounds like a bad moment, but it was so them!
The photographer did a good job of taking pictures around the room. There was lots of visiting and happy times. The DJ did a good job and kept the fun going. Rob and Stacey had the Honeymoon Suite for the night and left us to finish celebrating. They took one of the small layers of wedding cake to the room and chowed down.
We got the grandkids home and relaxed. It was nice to have all the hard work done and it was all worth it. I was in the thick of the wedding duties, but it still didn’t connect in my brain that Stacey was MARRIED. I’ll have to get used to that! Ha
Sandy (mother of the bride) looked beautiful in her dress. Terry, of course looked good in his tux (doesn’t every man?). The little boys wore vests and ties and looked adorable, especially 2 year old Colten. It was a lot of fun. I’m so happy for Rob and Stacey and the beginning of their family. What a lovely time!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Thursday we had more errands to run. It seems like there is a never ending list between the wedding and finishing up Dad’s estate. But it keeps us busy.
We went by the monument place and picked out Dad’s headstone. Before we got there we were thinking that we would get a pretty shiny black one. But the more we looked at them, the more we felt that the light gray (more traditional) one would fit Dad’s personality more. We just got a simple one in a medium size. It says “In loving memory” and his name, with birth and death dates on it. At the bottom of the front is a tractor. Who knew there would be 87 tractor designs to choose from. Crazy! Sandy was doing fine until time to write the check. She signed her name and then gave me the checkbook to finish writing it. She was crying. After we left, we ran by the cemetery and I left a little butterfly on a stick on his grave. Then we stopped by Dad’s house for another bathroom break. (his house has sure been handy for when we are in town). Colten was very cranky, so we headed on home.
Stacey got her nails done on Thursday evening and then joined us at the house. I helped get a few more things ready for the wedding and Stacey packed her suitcase for their honeymoon in Jamaica. Woohoo
Stacey and Colten I went to town on Friday morning and ran a bunch of errands. We barely got done in time to get home and change clothes for the rehearsal. Thank goodness that the church is only 5 minutes from the house!
The wedding rehearsal was really crazy. Rob was like a stressed bride and Stacey was just going with the flow. There was the usual craziness of the last minute before the wedding stuff going on. Colten was wired and running everywhere. At 2 years old, he doesn’t have the concept of a wedding, so he was loving running through the building and especially up and down the aisle. He was to be a ring bearer with Conner, who is 5. It was interesting to see him ‘practicing’.
One of the bridesmaids had to cancel out at the last minute of the rehearsal. Thankfully, a second cousin agreed to step in and we figured out that we could ‘adjust’ the gown and camoflage the pins and such. Stacey took it all in style. She’s was the very opposite of a bridezilla!
After the rehearsal, we all went to dinner at Johnny Carinos. It was yummy and fun. Then we all got home late. Sandy and I stayed up until 1am baking cookies and muffins for the wedding party to munch on during the morning before the wedding pictures got started. We ended up with extra grandkids at the last minute, so I slept on the couch downstairs and we finally got everyone in a bed of some kind. It was a crazy night.
We went by the monument place and picked out Dad’s headstone. Before we got there we were thinking that we would get a pretty shiny black one. But the more we looked at them, the more we felt that the light gray (more traditional) one would fit Dad’s personality more. We just got a simple one in a medium size. It says “In loving memory” and his name, with birth and death dates on it. At the bottom of the front is a tractor. Who knew there would be 87 tractor designs to choose from. Crazy! Sandy was doing fine until time to write the check. She signed her name and then gave me the checkbook to finish writing it. She was crying. After we left, we ran by the cemetery and I left a little butterfly on a stick on his grave. Then we stopped by Dad’s house for another bathroom break. (his house has sure been handy for when we are in town). Colten was very cranky, so we headed on home.
Stacey got her nails done on Thursday evening and then joined us at the house. I helped get a few more things ready for the wedding and Stacey packed her suitcase for their honeymoon in Jamaica. Woohoo
Stacey and Colten I went to town on Friday morning and ran a bunch of errands. We barely got done in time to get home and change clothes for the rehearsal. Thank goodness that the church is only 5 minutes from the house!
The wedding rehearsal was really crazy. Rob was like a stressed bride and Stacey was just going with the flow. There was the usual craziness of the last minute before the wedding stuff going on. Colten was wired and running everywhere. At 2 years old, he doesn’t have the concept of a wedding, so he was loving running through the building and especially up and down the aisle. He was to be a ring bearer with Conner, who is 5. It was interesting to see him ‘practicing’.
One of the bridesmaids had to cancel out at the last minute of the rehearsal. Thankfully, a second cousin agreed to step in and we figured out that we could ‘adjust’ the gown and camoflage the pins and such. Stacey took it all in style. She’s was the very opposite of a bridezilla!
After the rehearsal, we all went to dinner at Johnny Carinos. It was yummy and fun. Then we all got home late. Sandy and I stayed up until 1am baking cookies and muffins for the wedding party to munch on during the morning before the wedding pictures got started. We ended up with extra grandkids at the last minute, so I slept on the couch downstairs and we finally got everyone in a bed of some kind. It was a crazy night.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
It finally snowed a teeny little bit today. I was hoping to see a little snow while in the states during Jan and Feb. I would like to see a little more, but I don’t want to have any travel worries when I fly back to AR and when I fly to Nica. It will feel good to get back to the heat and sun.
Sandy, Colten and I hung around the house for a while this morning and I caught up on some laundry and some Bible Study. Colten wasn’t feeling good at all and we took him to the doctor in the afternoon. He got more antibiotics and other meds and has to do some breathing treatments over the next week. We’re hoping that he feels much better for the wedding on Saturday.
Sandy and I stopped at Best Buy to get her a Kindle Fire. Colten was asleep in the car, so I went in and bought a cover for mine and picked out everything that she needs. Then I sent her in to the sales person and he rang her up. It went very smooth. I can’t wait to get her all set up. She will really like using it in town when she is near internet. I got a new cover for mine. I like it pretty well. It’s lavender.
We met Stacey (Colten’s mom) at the doctor’s office. She took him home after the appointment, so Sandy and I ran past Dad’s house for a quick bathroom stop and to pick up a couple of boxes and a few items. Then we went to Hobby Lobby and I picked out 20 more sewing patterns that were on sale for 99 cents. I think I’ll have a really good variety for the ladies in Nica to use in sewing class.
We got back to Sandy’s and had deer meat burritos. Yum!! We’re cheating and having a frozen apple pie for dessert. I think I’ll be really bad and have ice cream with it. Sandy and I are such bad influences on each other!! Speaking of which, we drove through Arby’s and got chocolate turnovers this afternoon. It was a little gooey and I ended up with it on my hands. I felt like there might be some on my chin and when I asked Sandy if she saw any, she laughed out loud and said that she hasn’t seen an adult with that much food on their face, only kids. Ha
I’ve got some boxes of fabric to go through at Sandy’s tonight. She’s donating it to the sewing classes in Nica. We’ll ship it tomorrow to AR and then have the March FBCR team bring it down. I’m so glad that there’re lots of people coming on that trip.
Can’t wait to get back to Nica and start some sewing projects with the ladies! God is good!
Sandy, Colten and I hung around the house for a while this morning and I caught up on some laundry and some Bible Study. Colten wasn’t feeling good at all and we took him to the doctor in the afternoon. He got more antibiotics and other meds and has to do some breathing treatments over the next week. We’re hoping that he feels much better for the wedding on Saturday.
Sandy and I stopped at Best Buy to get her a Kindle Fire. Colten was asleep in the car, so I went in and bought a cover for mine and picked out everything that she needs. Then I sent her in to the sales person and he rang her up. It went very smooth. I can’t wait to get her all set up. She will really like using it in town when she is near internet. I got a new cover for mine. I like it pretty well. It’s lavender.
We met Stacey (Colten’s mom) at the doctor’s office. She took him home after the appointment, so Sandy and I ran past Dad’s house for a quick bathroom stop and to pick up a couple of boxes and a few items. Then we went to Hobby Lobby and I picked out 20 more sewing patterns that were on sale for 99 cents. I think I’ll have a really good variety for the ladies in Nica to use in sewing class.
We got back to Sandy’s and had deer meat burritos. Yum!! We’re cheating and having a frozen apple pie for dessert. I think I’ll be really bad and have ice cream with it. Sandy and I are such bad influences on each other!! Speaking of which, we drove through Arby’s and got chocolate turnovers this afternoon. It was a little gooey and I ended up with it on my hands. I felt like there might be some on my chin and when I asked Sandy if she saw any, she laughed out loud and said that she hasn’t seen an adult with that much food on their face, only kids. Ha
I’ve got some boxes of fabric to go through at Sandy’s tonight. She’s donating it to the sewing classes in Nica. We’ll ship it tomorrow to AR and then have the March FBCR team bring it down. I’m so glad that there’re lots of people coming on that trip.
Can’t wait to get back to Nica and start some sewing projects with the ladies! God is good!
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
I'm on REAL internet!! woohoo!!
I'm visiting my nephew-in-law's house, waiting on Stacey to get off work to go shopping. I love being able to sit here on my computer with real internet and get some work done.
Saturday morning, I went with Sandy to Isaac's basketball game. He's one of my great-nephews and is on a 7 year old team. They were funny to watch. The score starts at 50 each. So fun to watch them. I know it was hard for Sandy, though, as she was probably expecting Dad to walk through the door anytime. He never missed the kids' ballgames.
Later, Sandy, Stacey and I went shopping for more wedding stuff. It was a LONG day. We had a nice lunch Olive Garden and hit a bunch of stores. We were so tired on the way home. We went through a Starbucks and I got a Chai Tea Latte. It was soooo good! It felt nice to ride in the car on the way home. Sitting down never felt so good!
Sunday morning I was blessed to join Stacey and Rob for church. We went to the little church down the road from Sandy's house, which is where Rob and Stacey are getting married. (their home church is not currently built enough to house weddings) Even though this is a Methodist Church in the Midwest, it reminds me very much of a Souther Baptist Church in the south.
Sunday afternoon we had party food and celebrated Jan/Feb/Mar birthdays. Then we watched the Super Bowl. It was a nice afternoon.
Yesterday, Colten and I visited my Mom while Sandy finally went to the doctor. She has a bad sinus infection, which I'm sure is not helped at all by all the dust and dirt she's in working at Dad's house. Anyway, I had a nice visit with Mom and Gary and Colten got Mom to fix him some hotdogs for a snack. He has them wrapped around his finger. We dropped Colten off to visit with his Aunt Sheila and then Sandy and I worked a few hours on Dad's house. I finished up some wedding projects and then enjoyed watching some tv with Sandy and Terry.
This morning, Sandy and I came into Dad's and met uncle Bob for some more work on the collectibles to get ready for a sale. It's a lot of hard work and I hope it will be very fruitful. There are thousands and thousands of little tractors and farm implements and vehicles. It's a long process to sort, organize, research, price and display everything. How crazy!
This afternoon, we grabbed lunch at Arby's (I'm so excited that they have baked potatoes now!!) and came over to Rob's house to get Colten and to use the internet. I think I could go for a nap, but that's not in the cards for today. Stacey will pick me up in about 30 minutes and we'll go bridesmaid gift shopping. I also want to run by Hobby Lobby to get some patterns that are on sale for 99 cents each. (I want to take all I can back to Nica for the sewing classes). It will be fun to spend time with Stacey.
It's been a good visit. I can't believe that the wedding is this Saturday and then I go back to AR on Monday. Just 2 short weeks in AR and then I'm off to Nica for 6 months. Time is sure flying by.
I'm thankful for all the blessings that God is allowing in my life right now. He is faithful!
I'm visiting my nephew-in-law's house, waiting on Stacey to get off work to go shopping. I love being able to sit here on my computer with real internet and get some work done.
Saturday morning, I went with Sandy to Isaac's basketball game. He's one of my great-nephews and is on a 7 year old team. They were funny to watch. The score starts at 50 each. So fun to watch them. I know it was hard for Sandy, though, as she was probably expecting Dad to walk through the door anytime. He never missed the kids' ballgames.
Later, Sandy, Stacey and I went shopping for more wedding stuff. It was a LONG day. We had a nice lunch Olive Garden and hit a bunch of stores. We were so tired on the way home. We went through a Starbucks and I got a Chai Tea Latte. It was soooo good! It felt nice to ride in the car on the way home. Sitting down never felt so good!
Sunday morning I was blessed to join Stacey and Rob for church. We went to the little church down the road from Sandy's house, which is where Rob and Stacey are getting married. (their home church is not currently built enough to house weddings) Even though this is a Methodist Church in the Midwest, it reminds me very much of a Souther Baptist Church in the south.
Sunday afternoon we had party food and celebrated Jan/Feb/Mar birthdays. Then we watched the Super Bowl. It was a nice afternoon.
Yesterday, Colten and I visited my Mom while Sandy finally went to the doctor. She has a bad sinus infection, which I'm sure is not helped at all by all the dust and dirt she's in working at Dad's house. Anyway, I had a nice visit with Mom and Gary and Colten got Mom to fix him some hotdogs for a snack. He has them wrapped around his finger. We dropped Colten off to visit with his Aunt Sheila and then Sandy and I worked a few hours on Dad's house. I finished up some wedding projects and then enjoyed watching some tv with Sandy and Terry.
This morning, Sandy and I came into Dad's and met uncle Bob for some more work on the collectibles to get ready for a sale. It's a lot of hard work and I hope it will be very fruitful. There are thousands and thousands of little tractors and farm implements and vehicles. It's a long process to sort, organize, research, price and display everything. How crazy!
This afternoon, we grabbed lunch at Arby's (I'm so excited that they have baked potatoes now!!) and came over to Rob's house to get Colten and to use the internet. I think I could go for a nap, but that's not in the cards for today. Stacey will pick me up in about 30 minutes and we'll go bridesmaid gift shopping. I also want to run by Hobby Lobby to get some patterns that are on sale for 99 cents each. (I want to take all I can back to Nica for the sewing classes). It will be fun to spend time with Stacey.
It's been a good visit. I can't believe that the wedding is this Saturday and then I go back to AR on Monday. Just 2 short weeks in AR and then I'm off to Nica for 6 months. Time is sure flying by.
I'm thankful for all the blessings that God is allowing in my life right now. He is faithful!
Friday, February 3, 2012
Well, I made it to Indiana and have been enjoying visiting with my sister Sandy’s family.
Traveling day (Wed) was interesting… My flight left Northwest Arkansas 4 hours late due to a ‘slight’ mechanical problem. The issue was easy to fix and only took 20 minutes plus 20 minutes of paperwork, but getting the panel off (3 screws) took over 3 hours. If only they would let women travel with tweezers again – she could have had it repaired in no time flat!! But I got to sit in a somewhat comfortable chair and read, so I was content. The gate attendant was kind of funny so we had entertainment.
I missed my flight in Chicago, so they put me on a different flight and I had time to have a nice hot dinner and a hot chocolate before catching my new flight. Sandy and my niece Stacey & great-nephew Colten picked me up at the airport and we drove the hour ride home. I was really ready for bed!
Yesterday, Colten had us up early and we got ready to head into town. He has a sinus infection and isn’t feeling well and let everyone in Walmart know about it. ☺ We cut our errands list short and headed back home. Colten and I both took a much needed nap. (I’m still getting over my sinus infection with the help of antibiotics.) He was a fun pickle when he woke up.
Sandy I went shopping and running errands this morning before picking up Colten again. We headed to the library to check out some books on bow-making and to ask about borrowing books for kindle. Sandy has decided to get a kindle fire. She will love having a kindle! We went to Hobby Lobby for wedding ribbon and to check out the clearance stuff. I got some beads and some cord for jewelry making. We had a great lunch at Sirloin Stockade, thanks to some gift cards found at Dad’s, so I guess he bought our lunch!
Sandy made a delicious dinner again and we’re enjoying some quiet time. Colten is spending the weekend with his daddy.
Sandy, Stacey and I are going wedding shopping tomorrow to finish up loose ends. I don’t know much about the plans. I’m just along for the ride! ☺
The weather is beautiful, 50s-60s. Not bad for Feb in Indiana!
I spoke with Sherry Hulsey today and they are getting my plane tickets for Nica. I’ll leave on the 28th and return on Aug 13th. I can’t wait to get back down there! Time is going by so fast.
I don’t have wireless internet here at Sandy’s house, so I’ll have to post this sometime later. I’m thankful to have email and facebook on my phone, which usually gets a signal out here in the boonies.
I’m enjoying my time here so far. No family drama as of yet. ☺ It will be fun to experience the wedding festivities for these next 2 weeks.
It’s strange to be here just a few weeks after Dad’s funeral. It seems a long time ago. Sandy, Terry and Uncle Bob have done a lot of work on cleaning out Dad’s house. They are been working hard on pricing all the collectible tractors and stuff. What a mess. Sandy has worked so hard. It doesn’t feel weird being in the house, I guess in my mind I just think he’s away for a while. I don’t have any sentimental feelings about him and the house. I haven’t been inside it with him for over 25 years. Even though I used to rent it from him and live there for a few years, it’s so different now that it’s run down and falling down. It’s just different. I’m guess I’m thankful that I don’t get emotional there.
Time to close for now. I’m looking forward to another restful sleep in the comfy guest bed. It’s nice to feel on vacation before going to live in Nica (which I love, but it’s not a vacation – ha).
So thankful for my God and His hand on even the small details of my life.
Traveling day (Wed) was interesting… My flight left Northwest Arkansas 4 hours late due to a ‘slight’ mechanical problem. The issue was easy to fix and only took 20 minutes plus 20 minutes of paperwork, but getting the panel off (3 screws) took over 3 hours. If only they would let women travel with tweezers again – she could have had it repaired in no time flat!! But I got to sit in a somewhat comfortable chair and read, so I was content. The gate attendant was kind of funny so we had entertainment.
I missed my flight in Chicago, so they put me on a different flight and I had time to have a nice hot dinner and a hot chocolate before catching my new flight. Sandy and my niece Stacey & great-nephew Colten picked me up at the airport and we drove the hour ride home. I was really ready for bed!
Yesterday, Colten had us up early and we got ready to head into town. He has a sinus infection and isn’t feeling well and let everyone in Walmart know about it. ☺ We cut our errands list short and headed back home. Colten and I both took a much needed nap. (I’m still getting over my sinus infection with the help of antibiotics.) He was a fun pickle when he woke up.
Sandy I went shopping and running errands this morning before picking up Colten again. We headed to the library to check out some books on bow-making and to ask about borrowing books for kindle. Sandy has decided to get a kindle fire. She will love having a kindle! We went to Hobby Lobby for wedding ribbon and to check out the clearance stuff. I got some beads and some cord for jewelry making. We had a great lunch at Sirloin Stockade, thanks to some gift cards found at Dad’s, so I guess he bought our lunch!
Sandy made a delicious dinner again and we’re enjoying some quiet time. Colten is spending the weekend with his daddy.
Sandy, Stacey and I are going wedding shopping tomorrow to finish up loose ends. I don’t know much about the plans. I’m just along for the ride! ☺
The weather is beautiful, 50s-60s. Not bad for Feb in Indiana!
I spoke with Sherry Hulsey today and they are getting my plane tickets for Nica. I’ll leave on the 28th and return on Aug 13th. I can’t wait to get back down there! Time is going by so fast.
I don’t have wireless internet here at Sandy’s house, so I’ll have to post this sometime later. I’m thankful to have email and facebook on my phone, which usually gets a signal out here in the boonies.
I’m enjoying my time here so far. No family drama as of yet. ☺ It will be fun to experience the wedding festivities for these next 2 weeks.
It’s strange to be here just a few weeks after Dad’s funeral. It seems a long time ago. Sandy, Terry and Uncle Bob have done a lot of work on cleaning out Dad’s house. They are been working hard on pricing all the collectible tractors and stuff. What a mess. Sandy has worked so hard. It doesn’t feel weird being in the house, I guess in my mind I just think he’s away for a while. I don’t have any sentimental feelings about him and the house. I haven’t been inside it with him for over 25 years. Even though I used to rent it from him and live there for a few years, it’s so different now that it’s run down and falling down. It’s just different. I’m guess I’m thankful that I don’t get emotional there.
Time to close for now. I’m looking forward to another restful sleep in the comfy guest bed. It’s nice to feel on vacation before going to live in Nica (which I love, but it’s not a vacation – ha).
So thankful for my God and His hand on even the small details of my life.
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