I can't believe it's the week before Thanksgiving! ahhh!!! Wow, has time flown by!
I had my 1 week checkup with Dr. Rogers today and I'm doing great! I've been such a good girl and taken it easy physically, while still getting to accomplish a lot of work on my laptop. I've been able to rest when needed, too. I haven't felt this good in a long, long time. Thank you Lord!! Dr. Rogers says everything is good. My gallbladder was chronically inflamed, which doesn't show up on any tests. Now that it's out, I am a new woman! I'll continue to eat healthy (and as organic as possible) to heal my liver and to get as strong as possible. I want to be ready for every opportunity that God brings my way!
Dr. Rogers is in the Army Reserves and is being deployed to Iraq in a few weeks. I'll keep him and his family in my prayers. I'm glad that he could be my doctor when I needed him.
The weather has become chilly and seems to be appropriate for this time of year. It puts me in the mood for Thanksgiving and Christmas!! I am ready to see some pretty snowflakes. They don't have to stick, just flutter!
Tomorrow evening I'm going to meet Gus, a puppy who I will be sitting with over the next week. I hope we hit it off nicely. I'm very spoiled with good old Jet here at home. :)
I seem to be waxing sentimental lately. I'm so thankful for the different people that God has brought into and out of - and through - my life. He has shown me many different aspects of Himself in each person and situation. He allows our lives to be very full if we just open up and allow it.
I know that one of the things I need to work on is not to be so task-oriented and to be more relationship-focused. I want to enjoy the journey and be a blessing to others along the way. I know I like to be around people who have that same mindset. And above all, He is to be adored.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Well, I'm a happy woman! They finally did my gallbladder surgery yesterday. God was so comforting to me. I woke up at peace. Everyone at the surgery center was nice. One of the medical people who took care of me is from my church and I hadn't met her yet and she prayed with me before surgery. That was sweet. Dr. Rogers came in right before surgery and said he had practiced up on the person before me. I felt in good hands. When I put the paper hat on my head it reminded me of wearing a hairnet to work in the soup kitchens in nyc. I got to share a little about being a missionary in nyc and here, too. They covered me up with warm blankets and put those leg massager things on me. The nurse asked if I was okay and I told her I was pretending that I was at a spa. (although a spa would be cheaper)
I woke up in recovery and got to go home shortly after. I was expecting to feel horrible like I did after the liver biopsy, but it was not as bad. That made me happy. After a quick stop at the pharmacy for some pain meds, Deanna got me home about 1:30. I took a nap and then hung out in the recliner for the rest of the day. They had told me to walk frequently, so I did some laps around the living room, kitchen, hall. Jet started with me, but soon decided I wasn't going outside, so he just sat and looked at me like I was crazy.
I woke up this morning with no nausea for the first time in over a year. I already feel so much better. I'm excited. I have to take it easy for a few more days and I got to eat real food for dinner today. That baked potato was good!
I have a tendency to push too fast and too hard. But I'm being really good this time. I want to be healed up and raring to go asap. I am so thankful that I can work from home so I don't feel unproductive. I've gotten a lot done in the last few days. I've even started on Christmas cards.
I'm sure you are all as tired of hearing about my health as I am in complaining about it. It's smooth sailing from here. I'm soooo thankful for God's hand on my life.
Thanksgiving is coming so fast. I love it. The plans for our church's free meals are on track. It's a big undertaking, but God pulls it all together. This year's biggest challenge is funding it. As we grow in number of meals (due to more need) the cost goes up, too. Vendors are not as able to supply donated food as in the past. I know God has a plan for the money to come from the right place. Please join me in praying for God's will to be revealed. I know there are going to be many people blessed by the meals.
Christmas blessings are coming along, too. Food baskets and Angel Tree gifts are in the works. It's a tight time for everyone financially. But it's wonderful to see how God can take the little bit we contribute and He makes miracles happen with it. He doesn't need what we have to make His blessings happen, but He wants for us to be participants in the process to grow us and to let us feel the blessing of helping others. What a perfect plan.
Well, time for bed. I think I'll turn in early tonight. Slow and steady for now. And plenty of time to rest in God's peace and comfort. I'm so blessed.
I woke up in recovery and got to go home shortly after. I was expecting to feel horrible like I did after the liver biopsy, but it was not as bad. That made me happy. After a quick stop at the pharmacy for some pain meds, Deanna got me home about 1:30. I took a nap and then hung out in the recliner for the rest of the day. They had told me to walk frequently, so I did some laps around the living room, kitchen, hall. Jet started with me, but soon decided I wasn't going outside, so he just sat and looked at me like I was crazy.
I woke up this morning with no nausea for the first time in over a year. I already feel so much better. I'm excited. I have to take it easy for a few more days and I got to eat real food for dinner today. That baked potato was good!
I have a tendency to push too fast and too hard. But I'm being really good this time. I want to be healed up and raring to go asap. I am so thankful that I can work from home so I don't feel unproductive. I've gotten a lot done in the last few days. I've even started on Christmas cards.
I'm sure you are all as tired of hearing about my health as I am in complaining about it. It's smooth sailing from here. I'm soooo thankful for God's hand on my life.
Thanksgiving is coming so fast. I love it. The plans for our church's free meals are on track. It's a big undertaking, but God pulls it all together. This year's biggest challenge is funding it. As we grow in number of meals (due to more need) the cost goes up, too. Vendors are not as able to supply donated food as in the past. I know God has a plan for the money to come from the right place. Please join me in praying for God's will to be revealed. I know there are going to be many people blessed by the meals.
Christmas blessings are coming along, too. Food baskets and Angel Tree gifts are in the works. It's a tight time for everyone financially. But it's wonderful to see how God can take the little bit we contribute and He makes miracles happen with it. He doesn't need what we have to make His blessings happen, but He wants for us to be participants in the process to grow us and to let us feel the blessing of helping others. What a perfect plan.
Well, time for bed. I think I'll turn in early tonight. Slow and steady for now. And plenty of time to rest in God's peace and comfort. I'm so blessed.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Monday, November 9, 2009
Great news! I got a call from the doctor's office this morning and they have scheduled my surgery for tomorrow! Thank you Lord! I can't wait to get it over and recover and feel good all the time!!!! It's been a long time and I'm ready to go go go and get the Lord's work done!
As I sit here working on missions stuff on the computer, I keep forgetting about the surgery and then I remember and think 'Oh, yea!' It's like remembering that tomorrow's a holiday when you're a kid in school. I know that it will hurt during recovery, but it's a pain that will go away. Each day will be better and better. I'm so thankful!
I rode along with Deanna to Walmart today for some groceries and got the chance to check prices for the Christmas Food Baskets. Now I just need to stop in at Aldi's and check their prices soon and that project can get underway. I'm supposed to walk a lot after surgery, so this can be a field trip that Deanna can take me on before I get to drive again. I can't wait to give out the food baskets next month!!
We're working on the Angel Tree families now. The names are coming from Northside school, church families and referrals from FBC church families. I pray that everyone who needs to be blessed will be brought to our attention and loved on through the Christmas season.
I've just about got my Christmas shopping done. I find great bargains on the perfect items for family throughout the year and hang on to them till Christmas. Sometimes it's a great surprise to me when I discover those items that have been hidden away. All the gifts for my family get mailed to Indiana, so I try to ship that off the first of December to try to avoid long lines and to allow the family to open the presents and enjoy them early.
I have bought some Christmas cards with the word Joy on them. (my word to celebrate this year) I need to get to work on addressing them! Maybe that will be a good project for my resting time this next week. Time is going by so fast!
Thanksgiving plans are on track. Hundreds of flyers are going out to the community, homemade pies are being promised, food is being ordered, volunteers are signing up. The morning of Thanksgiving is so festive with people coming together to bless others. The Holy Spirit is always felt. It's wonderful.
One of the best things about working with people on missions is the excitement and love that you feel from each other as we are sharing Christ's love. You just can't help but get a little on ya. :)
I do ask for your prayers these next 2 months that I manage my time and energy to be able to get everything planned, delegated, executed and followed up on in the way that is pleasing to God. It's all about glorifying Him and bringing people to know Him.
Well, it's time for me to get ready for bed. Tomorrow is a special day. I'm so at peace letting God handle things. I like Dr Rogers and feel safe in his care. Dr Bob has been a wonderful friend and doctor and I appreciate all he has done for me, too. Especially his prayers! How wonderful to have a doctor who prays for you!
Everyone keeps telling me that I'll be a 'new woman' after the surgery. I hope I'm taller and thinner. heehee
As I sit here working on missions stuff on the computer, I keep forgetting about the surgery and then I remember and think 'Oh, yea!' It's like remembering that tomorrow's a holiday when you're a kid in school. I know that it will hurt during recovery, but it's a pain that will go away. Each day will be better and better. I'm so thankful!
I rode along with Deanna to Walmart today for some groceries and got the chance to check prices for the Christmas Food Baskets. Now I just need to stop in at Aldi's and check their prices soon and that project can get underway. I'm supposed to walk a lot after surgery, so this can be a field trip that Deanna can take me on before I get to drive again. I can't wait to give out the food baskets next month!!
We're working on the Angel Tree families now. The names are coming from Northside school, church families and referrals from FBC church families. I pray that everyone who needs to be blessed will be brought to our attention and loved on through the Christmas season.
I've just about got my Christmas shopping done. I find great bargains on the perfect items for family throughout the year and hang on to them till Christmas. Sometimes it's a great surprise to me when I discover those items that have been hidden away. All the gifts for my family get mailed to Indiana, so I try to ship that off the first of December to try to avoid long lines and to allow the family to open the presents and enjoy them early.
I have bought some Christmas cards with the word Joy on them. (my word to celebrate this year) I need to get to work on addressing them! Maybe that will be a good project for my resting time this next week. Time is going by so fast!
Thanksgiving plans are on track. Hundreds of flyers are going out to the community, homemade pies are being promised, food is being ordered, volunteers are signing up. The morning of Thanksgiving is so festive with people coming together to bless others. The Holy Spirit is always felt. It's wonderful.
One of the best things about working with people on missions is the excitement and love that you feel from each other as we are sharing Christ's love. You just can't help but get a little on ya. :)
I do ask for your prayers these next 2 months that I manage my time and energy to be able to get everything planned, delegated, executed and followed up on in the way that is pleasing to God. It's all about glorifying Him and bringing people to know Him.
Well, it's time for me to get ready for bed. Tomorrow is a special day. I'm so at peace letting God handle things. I like Dr Rogers and feel safe in his care. Dr Bob has been a wonderful friend and doctor and I appreciate all he has done for me, too. Especially his prayers! How wonderful to have a doctor who prays for you!
Everyone keeps telling me that I'll be a 'new woman' after the surgery. I hope I'm taller and thinner. heehee
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Saturday, November 7, 2009
What beautiful weather we have been having lately!! And more to come this next week! 70s in November?? We have really been blessed. Jet and I went out for a walk today. It's been a while and he was sooo excited. I think he stopped and checked out every blade of grass!
This past week has been a roller coaster of feeling good/bad, excited/disappointed, encouraged/frustrated with just about everything! But through it all, I'm thankful for God and His control of my life. Even when I don't like how things are going at the moment.
The Precept Bible study on Covenant ended on Tuesday. It was a good study, although I missed the 'real' Precept format. We had a small class that was very into sharing ideas and views. I got a lot out of the class. I'm going to work on some small Bible studies for the next few months until we start Precept classes again in January.
Part of the roller coaster of emotions last week was health issues. (I'm so tired of them!) Anyway, the doctor's office was finally actually trying to schedule the surgery for Monday and then the computers and even the fax capabilities of the scheduling system was 'down' yesterday. Soooo, they are trying to get me scheduled Monday morning for surgery on Tuesday. I'm really hoping, but I'm not holding my breath. Too many 'almosts' lately. I kept telling God that I trusted His timing and plans, but did admit to Him that I was cranky about it. (of course, He already knew that, but it's part of my growth to admit it. *smile*)
I was able to get so much work done this past week. I have my little office area set up in the den part of my rooms. I spent a few hours each day at the church doing the physical stuff needed to be done, as well as printing off what I had done on the computer at home. Things seem to be on schedule.
I also got to spend some time on my rooms and taking care of clutter and organization. It feels good to get that stuff done. I'm so thankful for the cozy, love-filled home I get to live in. God has blessed me so much with Deanna and her hospitality.
I've been trying to find info on Nicaragua to be studying up on. It's pretty darn hard to find stuff. I've been to Barnes and Nobel, the public library, Amazon.com... Lots of stuff on Central America in general, and all the other countries within Central America, but not much on Nic. Looks like I'll be spending some time on the net.
Spanish classes are going well. I'm trying to practice a lot. I want it all to stick in my brain. I'm enjoying the learning part. I can't wait to see where my language skills will be by year's end. And I hope to be a lot more improved by the time the mission trip in March comes along.
Time to call it a night. I pray that everyone is having a great fall and can take the time to step back and reflect on Thanksgiving and all that these next two months bring in terms of family and love and God. Blessings!!
This past week has been a roller coaster of feeling good/bad, excited/disappointed, encouraged/frustrated with just about everything! But through it all, I'm thankful for God and His control of my life. Even when I don't like how things are going at the moment.
The Precept Bible study on Covenant ended on Tuesday. It was a good study, although I missed the 'real' Precept format. We had a small class that was very into sharing ideas and views. I got a lot out of the class. I'm going to work on some small Bible studies for the next few months until we start Precept classes again in January.
Part of the roller coaster of emotions last week was health issues. (I'm so tired of them!) Anyway, the doctor's office was finally actually trying to schedule the surgery for Monday and then the computers and even the fax capabilities of the scheduling system was 'down' yesterday. Soooo, they are trying to get me scheduled Monday morning for surgery on Tuesday. I'm really hoping, but I'm not holding my breath. Too many 'almosts' lately. I kept telling God that I trusted His timing and plans, but did admit to Him that I was cranky about it. (of course, He already knew that, but it's part of my growth to admit it. *smile*)
I was able to get so much work done this past week. I have my little office area set up in the den part of my rooms. I spent a few hours each day at the church doing the physical stuff needed to be done, as well as printing off what I had done on the computer at home. Things seem to be on schedule.
I also got to spend some time on my rooms and taking care of clutter and organization. It feels good to get that stuff done. I'm so thankful for the cozy, love-filled home I get to live in. God has blessed me so much with Deanna and her hospitality.
I've been trying to find info on Nicaragua to be studying up on. It's pretty darn hard to find stuff. I've been to Barnes and Nobel, the public library, Amazon.com... Lots of stuff on Central America in general, and all the other countries within Central America, but not much on Nic. Looks like I'll be spending some time on the net.
Spanish classes are going well. I'm trying to practice a lot. I want it all to stick in my brain. I'm enjoying the learning part. I can't wait to see where my language skills will be by year's end. And I hope to be a lot more improved by the time the mission trip in March comes along.
Time to call it a night. I pray that everyone is having a great fall and can take the time to step back and reflect on Thanksgiving and all that these next two months bring in terms of family and love and God. Blessings!!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Saturday, October 31, 2009
It's Halloween. I'm praying for God's light to shine over all the evil darkness that comes along with this day. Happy times of dressing up and having fun with games, fellowship, friends, and of course, candy. I'm staying in tonight and will miss the Trunk or Treat our church is having at the Frisco Station Mall. I know there will be tons of fun!!! I'll get to see a few trick or treaters who live in the neighborhood as they visit Miss Deanna's house. It will be fun.
It's a beautiful day today. So sunny and dry. I ran errands this morning and got to visit friends. It was a nice morning to be out.
My goal for the weekend (besides worship tomorrow) is to clean and organize my bedroom. It seems to be collecting clutter. I think I'll put on a praise cd and enjoy some rejuvenation time.
I should find out in the next couple of days when my surgery will be. I feel like I'm waiting on Christmas. What a blessing to feel good again! It's been over a year and I don't remember not hurting or feeling nauseous. I'm excited!
I stopped by the Janes' house for a visit today and came home with a bag of goodies. Not candy, but some spice grinders! I'm thrilled! I can't wait to fill them and grind away when cooking. I also borrowed a vegetarian cookbook that looks to have some really good recipes in it. Yum!
We made some really good cornbread in the baking stone pan. I've been craving fried cornbread, but haven't eaten anything fried in a very long time. Since the baking stone makes things crispy on the bottom, we decided to bake a regular batch that would go in an 8x8 pan (from scratch with healthy substitutions, of course) and spread it in the larger pan. It was about 1/2" thick and crispy on the bottom. Oh Man! It was good. We have decided to have it at least once a week. Especially since we are having a big pot of 'soup of the week'. This fall and winter will be extra tasty!
I've been missing parts of nyc this week. Grocery shopping at Whole Foods, walking down the streets and stopping in at my favorite juice bar, hearing the traffic noise, walking in Central Park, visiting the 3 story Barnes and Noble bookstore near my apartment... I even miss my apartment (although I am VERY happy and comfortable in my new digs here at Deanna's house). I think I just miss the special-ness of life 'on the mission field'. There is a special bond you feel with God and, even though I know I'm serving Him here, it's special when you make sacrifices for Him. I'll always be thankful for the good (and hard) times serving Him in nyc.
It's been crazy busy here in Rogers for me. Lots going on and lots coming up. The coat drive is going well. The school system social workers are getting coats for families. I've gotten to deliver a few coats myself. We are giving individually wrapped snacks to Northside school to send home with the kids who need food for the weekends. The Food Pantry is chugging along. The Medical Clinic is doing well. Preparation for Thanksgiving meals is gearing up. We're planning on serving 2400 meals this year. Christmas Angel Tree and Christmas Food Baskets will take up my time this week while I'm finalizing the details for the procedures and start sharing that info the church.
I'm excited to be praying about a ministry in Nicaragua that a family in our church leads. I know that God wants me to be involved with them and we are praying about the details and timing of that. In the meantime, I'm learning as much about the country, people, customs, food, needs, etc as I can and also lifting the nic people and the ministry's workers up in prayers. Please join me in praying about this. I'll share more as time goes on and as God reveals His plans.
I'm having a blast being a part of Cuerpo Vivo (our Hispanic congregation at FBCR). Jaime and Oliver and their families have always treated me as family, too. I love the people of Cuerpo Vivo (which means 'living body', by the way) and look forward to getting to know them better. Oliver has told the congregation to only speak to me in Spanish, so I'm getting immersed in the language. Pray for me people!! I need a clear heart and mind to absorb the language. But I love it!
Well, better go for now and rest up for the little goblins who will be ringing our door tonight. I didn't think to make Jet a costume. I'll have to think of something really quick. I'm sure he will like to great the kids who come by. (Deanna told me today that I have 'ruined her dog', but in a good way. )
Have a safe evening and pray for God's light to shine truth to everyone and overpower any darkness you may run into tonight. God's blessings are my 'treat' for you.
It's a beautiful day today. So sunny and dry. I ran errands this morning and got to visit friends. It was a nice morning to be out.
My goal for the weekend (besides worship tomorrow) is to clean and organize my bedroom. It seems to be collecting clutter. I think I'll put on a praise cd and enjoy some rejuvenation time.
I should find out in the next couple of days when my surgery will be. I feel like I'm waiting on Christmas. What a blessing to feel good again! It's been over a year and I don't remember not hurting or feeling nauseous. I'm excited!
I stopped by the Janes' house for a visit today and came home with a bag of goodies. Not candy, but some spice grinders! I'm thrilled! I can't wait to fill them and grind away when cooking. I also borrowed a vegetarian cookbook that looks to have some really good recipes in it. Yum!
We made some really good cornbread in the baking stone pan. I've been craving fried cornbread, but haven't eaten anything fried in a very long time. Since the baking stone makes things crispy on the bottom, we decided to bake a regular batch that would go in an 8x8 pan (from scratch with healthy substitutions, of course) and spread it in the larger pan. It was about 1/2" thick and crispy on the bottom. Oh Man! It was good. We have decided to have it at least once a week. Especially since we are having a big pot of 'soup of the week'. This fall and winter will be extra tasty!
I've been missing parts of nyc this week. Grocery shopping at Whole Foods, walking down the streets and stopping in at my favorite juice bar, hearing the traffic noise, walking in Central Park, visiting the 3 story Barnes and Noble bookstore near my apartment... I even miss my apartment (although I am VERY happy and comfortable in my new digs here at Deanna's house). I think I just miss the special-ness of life 'on the mission field'. There is a special bond you feel with God and, even though I know I'm serving Him here, it's special when you make sacrifices for Him. I'll always be thankful for the good (and hard) times serving Him in nyc.
It's been crazy busy here in Rogers for me. Lots going on and lots coming up. The coat drive is going well. The school system social workers are getting coats for families. I've gotten to deliver a few coats myself. We are giving individually wrapped snacks to Northside school to send home with the kids who need food for the weekends. The Food Pantry is chugging along. The Medical Clinic is doing well. Preparation for Thanksgiving meals is gearing up. We're planning on serving 2400 meals this year. Christmas Angel Tree and Christmas Food Baskets will take up my time this week while I'm finalizing the details for the procedures and start sharing that info the church.
I'm excited to be praying about a ministry in Nicaragua that a family in our church leads. I know that God wants me to be involved with them and we are praying about the details and timing of that. In the meantime, I'm learning as much about the country, people, customs, food, needs, etc as I can and also lifting the nic people and the ministry's workers up in prayers. Please join me in praying about this. I'll share more as time goes on and as God reveals His plans.
I'm having a blast being a part of Cuerpo Vivo (our Hispanic congregation at FBCR). Jaime and Oliver and their families have always treated me as family, too. I love the people of Cuerpo Vivo (which means 'living body', by the way) and look forward to getting to know them better. Oliver has told the congregation to only speak to me in Spanish, so I'm getting immersed in the language. Pray for me people!! I need a clear heart and mind to absorb the language. But I love it!
Well, better go for now and rest up for the little goblins who will be ringing our door tonight. I didn't think to make Jet a costume. I'll have to think of something really quick. I'm sure he will like to great the kids who come by. (Deanna told me today that I have 'ruined her dog', but in a good way. )
Have a safe evening and pray for God's light to shine truth to everyone and overpower any darkness you may run into tonight. God's blessings are my 'treat' for you.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
I'm sitting here trying to remember back to Thursday and what all happened that day. It took me a while of thinking and then I still had to ask Deanna if she remembered. (Am I having senior moments again?) Finally, we figured it out!
I worked from home in Thursday morning and then went to the church around noon to print off some of the things I had created on my laptop. I wasn't feeling too well and was hoping for the day to go by quickly, but I was looking forward to the things that were planned. There was some clothing and other items to be delivered to the Christian Women's Job Corp, so Pamela invited me to share the devotion with the class. Then I went to the church and visited with the people at the Medical Clinic. It was a nice day.
Friday morning I went to help at the Food Pantry and also moved more coats from the Coat Drive to the missions office. Vicki P, one of the Rogers Schools social workers, came by to pick up some coats and other things for some families. I enjoy her very much. We are both happy that FBCR is able to work closely with the schools to reach families in need. I also got to visit a family and drop off coats for them. It was nice to be able to supply coats to people on such a cold day. I'm thankful for all the people at church who are bringing in coats to share with families. What a blessing.
Saturday was a pretty, sunny day. Jet and I took a nice long walk to New Hope Park and relaxed there for a while. It was our first walk in days, so we were both very happy. I went to the library and Walmart (of course) and then settled in for a cozy evening at home. I received a phone call from my friend Mary Ann, who was up from Texarkana for the weekend. She invited me to a friend's house, where her former ABF class was having a party. I crashed the party and spent a wonderful evening chatting with Mary Ann and having fun with some crazy party games. I came home with a headache from laughing so hard. It was an evening that I needed very much, after a hard few days.
Sunday morning I woke feeling really bad, but I didn't want to miss church (or give in to my ailment), so I got dressed, but couldn't handle even oatmeal. Since I don't get home from Cuerpo Vivo until about 2pm, I've joked that I need to pack a lunch. I knew I would eventually get hungry from not eating breakfast, so I actually packed my oatmeal for church! I got the chance to eat a little of it, so it was worth packing a lunch bag to church. :)
I had treated myself to a new bilingual Bible and I enjoyed it very much. I had looked at 3 different Bible bookstores before I found one that was in the 2 translations I wanted and the right size. I figured that I would have to get a plain/ugly one and a cover. I ended my search at SKIA and they had 2 that would fit the bill. One was a perfect color combo and even had silver edges (rather than the usual gold) that I liked. It was like God put it there just for me. I started using it Sunday morning in both services. I think it will help me learn Spanish more and obviously it will help me follow along with the message at Cuerpo Vivo. Jaime asked me if I was able to get anything out of the Spanish sermon and I told him that I could follow along with the scripture references and read them in Spanish and English both. It really helps. Of course, I move my lips when I read in Spanish because I want to practice pronunciation. He said he would be looking for that. :)
Spanish class this morning was great. We have wonderful discussions about culture, lifestyle, customs, etc., as well as grammar skills. Oliver has a heart for teaching and really wants us to understand and absorb the language. I'm very thankful to be in the class. God is blessing me with the opportunity to be around Spanish speaking people. I pray for a clear mind, the ability to understand and the confidence to keep trying. I look so forward to improving on being able to meet and share with more people and I'm thankful for the chance to learn a language to make that happen.
God has been dealing with me on some things lately. I may share about it at a later time, but I'm thankful for the lessons He teaches (even though I don't like the pain sometimes). He is so faithful to love me and continue to grow me.
I have not felt well the last week or so, but it's a good time for that to happen, I guess, since I go to see the surgeon on Wednesday. Maybe he will agree to remove that stinkin' ol' gallbladder and I'll be 100% again. I don't want to ever take good health for granted anymore. It's been a year since this journey began and I'm ready for it to end. It will be wonderful to be able to sleep through the night and not be awakened with just enough pain and nausea to keep me awake for hours. At least I'm getting a lot of reading done... But I would rather sleep during those hours.
As with everything, I trust the Lord with my health. I am His to do with what He wants. I just pray that I will be faithful in representing Him in every situation. There's so many opportunities to grow if I just pay attention to Him. That's my biggest desire.
I worked from home in Thursday morning and then went to the church around noon to print off some of the things I had created on my laptop. I wasn't feeling too well and was hoping for the day to go by quickly, but I was looking forward to the things that were planned. There was some clothing and other items to be delivered to the Christian Women's Job Corp, so Pamela invited me to share the devotion with the class. Then I went to the church and visited with the people at the Medical Clinic. It was a nice day.
Friday morning I went to help at the Food Pantry and also moved more coats from the Coat Drive to the missions office. Vicki P, one of the Rogers Schools social workers, came by to pick up some coats and other things for some families. I enjoy her very much. We are both happy that FBCR is able to work closely with the schools to reach families in need. I also got to visit a family and drop off coats for them. It was nice to be able to supply coats to people on such a cold day. I'm thankful for all the people at church who are bringing in coats to share with families. What a blessing.
Saturday was a pretty, sunny day. Jet and I took a nice long walk to New Hope Park and relaxed there for a while. It was our first walk in days, so we were both very happy. I went to the library and Walmart (of course) and then settled in for a cozy evening at home. I received a phone call from my friend Mary Ann, who was up from Texarkana for the weekend. She invited me to a friend's house, where her former ABF class was having a party. I crashed the party and spent a wonderful evening chatting with Mary Ann and having fun with some crazy party games. I came home with a headache from laughing so hard. It was an evening that I needed very much, after a hard few days.
Sunday morning I woke feeling really bad, but I didn't want to miss church (or give in to my ailment), so I got dressed, but couldn't handle even oatmeal. Since I don't get home from Cuerpo Vivo until about 2pm, I've joked that I need to pack a lunch. I knew I would eventually get hungry from not eating breakfast, so I actually packed my oatmeal for church! I got the chance to eat a little of it, so it was worth packing a lunch bag to church. :)
I had treated myself to a new bilingual Bible and I enjoyed it very much. I had looked at 3 different Bible bookstores before I found one that was in the 2 translations I wanted and the right size. I figured that I would have to get a plain/ugly one and a cover. I ended my search at SKIA and they had 2 that would fit the bill. One was a perfect color combo and even had silver edges (rather than the usual gold) that I liked. It was like God put it there just for me. I started using it Sunday morning in both services. I think it will help me learn Spanish more and obviously it will help me follow along with the message at Cuerpo Vivo. Jaime asked me if I was able to get anything out of the Spanish sermon and I told him that I could follow along with the scripture references and read them in Spanish and English both. It really helps. Of course, I move my lips when I read in Spanish because I want to practice pronunciation. He said he would be looking for that. :)
Spanish class this morning was great. We have wonderful discussions about culture, lifestyle, customs, etc., as well as grammar skills. Oliver has a heart for teaching and really wants us to understand and absorb the language. I'm very thankful to be in the class. God is blessing me with the opportunity to be around Spanish speaking people. I pray for a clear mind, the ability to understand and the confidence to keep trying. I look so forward to improving on being able to meet and share with more people and I'm thankful for the chance to learn a language to make that happen.
God has been dealing with me on some things lately. I may share about it at a later time, but I'm thankful for the lessons He teaches (even though I don't like the pain sometimes). He is so faithful to love me and continue to grow me.
I have not felt well the last week or so, but it's a good time for that to happen, I guess, since I go to see the surgeon on Wednesday. Maybe he will agree to remove that stinkin' ol' gallbladder and I'll be 100% again. I don't want to ever take good health for granted anymore. It's been a year since this journey began and I'm ready for it to end. It will be wonderful to be able to sleep through the night and not be awakened with just enough pain and nausea to keep me awake for hours. At least I'm getting a lot of reading done... But I would rather sleep during those hours.
As with everything, I trust the Lord with my health. I am His to do with what He wants. I just pray that I will be faithful in representing Him in every situation. There's so many opportunities to grow if I just pay attention to Him. That's my biggest desire.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
It's been a busy, busy day and I loved it! It started out kind of rough after being up most of the night with the usual pain in my side. Just enough to keep me from a good night's sleep. But, with God's help, I chug along as best I can until I have to stop and give in for a while.
I had my weekly 15 minute meeting with John. I jokingly said that he gets up and leaves the room after 15 minutes even if I'm not through talking. :0 But I do email him the status notes of my projects with the new entries bolded so that he can review it before our meeting starts. This makes our 15 minutes much more productive. I told him today that he could have the conversation whether I was in the room or not, since he knows what I would talk about. Anyway, things and moving along steadily for the various ministries and projects.
After the meeting with John, I attended the first staff meeting for Cuerpo Vivo (our Hispanic ministry) since I began working on the admin/missions duties for the church. Oliver, Jaime and I spent 1.5 hours discussing tons of stuff. We used Spanish part of the time and English the rest. I love practicing the language! I have a long to-do list for the next few weeks. We are all excited about getting some of the issues addressed and organized, and plans made. I'm very happy working with Cuerpo Vivo.
After this meeting, I went with Janalynn, Elizabeth and Darin to the site for Trunk or Treat, to think about how to set everything up. It was a nice meeting with the property manager of the mall. It should be a good event. Now, we hope it doesn't rain, but there is a plan to have everything inside the mall if necessary. Praying that God rains down candy from heaven so that we will have plenty to give away!
I went by the hospital to pay off my balance today and they couldn't find any financial info on the 4 tests/procedures that were done at the Bentonville hospital. I did pay off the liver biopsy balance for the Springdale hospital. The lady kept asking me if I was sure that the tests were done at the Bentonville hospital. Duh!!! I think I remember all those tests! It wasn't a lobotomy, after all! I guess we'll get it all figured out sooner or later.
Tonight we grilled more veggies on my new baking stone. Squash, peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, brussel sprouts, onions... We had a plate of veggies and then added the rest to a pot of tomatoes and grilled chicken. A little Mediterranean spices and other goodies and it's a yummy soup! I love experimenting in the kitchen. (last week's Cajun soup was smokin' hot!) I'll have to pick up some flatbread and we'll be enjoying hot soup in the cooler days to come this week.
I have a to-do list a mile long for tomorrow, so I will work on my laptop here at home and then go to the church and print everything off. By Friday afternoon, I think I'll have most of that list taken care of. Well, that's my plan. Now, let's see what God has planned...
I had my weekly 15 minute meeting with John. I jokingly said that he gets up and leaves the room after 15 minutes even if I'm not through talking. :0 But I do email him the status notes of my projects with the new entries bolded so that he can review it before our meeting starts. This makes our 15 minutes much more productive. I told him today that he could have the conversation whether I was in the room or not, since he knows what I would talk about. Anyway, things and moving along steadily for the various ministries and projects.
After the meeting with John, I attended the first staff meeting for Cuerpo Vivo (our Hispanic ministry) since I began working on the admin/missions duties for the church. Oliver, Jaime and I spent 1.5 hours discussing tons of stuff. We used Spanish part of the time and English the rest. I love practicing the language! I have a long to-do list for the next few weeks. We are all excited about getting some of the issues addressed and organized, and plans made. I'm very happy working with Cuerpo Vivo.
After this meeting, I went with Janalynn, Elizabeth and Darin to the site for Trunk or Treat, to think about how to set everything up. It was a nice meeting with the property manager of the mall. It should be a good event. Now, we hope it doesn't rain, but there is a plan to have everything inside the mall if necessary. Praying that God rains down candy from heaven so that we will have plenty to give away!
I went by the hospital to pay off my balance today and they couldn't find any financial info on the 4 tests/procedures that were done at the Bentonville hospital. I did pay off the liver biopsy balance for the Springdale hospital. The lady kept asking me if I was sure that the tests were done at the Bentonville hospital. Duh!!! I think I remember all those tests! It wasn't a lobotomy, after all! I guess we'll get it all figured out sooner or later.
Tonight we grilled more veggies on my new baking stone. Squash, peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, brussel sprouts, onions... We had a plate of veggies and then added the rest to a pot of tomatoes and grilled chicken. A little Mediterranean spices and other goodies and it's a yummy soup! I love experimenting in the kitchen. (last week's Cajun soup was smokin' hot!) I'll have to pick up some flatbread and we'll be enjoying hot soup in the cooler days to come this week.
I have a to-do list a mile long for tomorrow, so I will work on my laptop here at home and then go to the church and print everything off. By Friday afternoon, I think I'll have most of that list taken care of. Well, that's my plan. Now, let's see what God has planned...
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