This has been a great week. God has filled my days with many opportunities to study His word, work in current ministries, meet new people, discover new opportunities to serve, work along side some great kids, discuss future mission trips, and check many things off of my to-do list. I love being surrounded by inspiring Christians. God is so busy all around us. We just have to open our eyes and ask Him what He wants us to be involved in. He is more than generous in His blessings of opportunities.
Our Ladies' Bible study was great on Tuesday. I just can't say enough about how much I love this Chronological study. Actually, I can't find the appropriate words to describe it. God is really speaking to me through this study in ways that I never imagined. I'm very thankful. Lisa does a wonderful job with the large group lecture portion. The worship music was beautiful. Our small group is very encouraging. We had a quick luncheon with our small group at Diane Lee's house. It was a nice time to get to know some of the ladies better.
Things are hopping with the plans for the March Nicaragua mission team from FBCR. Plans are being set up and then changed, but we are flexible and ready to serve in any way that we are called. I think it's going to be a great trip! We have opportunity to share Jesus with thousands of people during that week. I think the team is getting more excited as the time approaches. I was blessed with a couple of hundred girls t-shirt to take with us to Nica. We'll try to get these included in the extra bags of supplies that we will take with us.
Last night (Wed) I attended the 'core group' meeting for Cuerpo Vivo. Pastor Jaime had a great message geared toward the prayer life of leadership. The second part of the evening was spent with each leader sharing the status of their areas of responsibility. Such wonderful growth within the church. I was excited that I could understand about 85% of everything that was said, considering the meeting was all in Spanish. That made me feel good, too!
Before leaving the church last night, I was blessed to get to spend some time in discussion with Pastor Wes. He has just returned from India and Dubai, visiting 2 FBCR families who are serving as full-time missionaries. We caught up a little on a few local projects and what God is doing. I rarely get to fit into Bro Wes' busy schedule, and I treasure those times when I do.
Today was lovely. I got some work done here at home on the computer, and then had a lunch meeting with 2 great ladies to discuss Forever Fed. This project is going to be wonderful to be a part of. Many people will be ministered to through this new opportunity. I'll be sharing more about it in the weeks to come.
This afternoon was filled with sorting thousands of t-shirt and a few hundred fleece hoodies that were donated for distribution. I was blessed to work along side the 4 oldest Janes kids. They were a big help and we treated ourselves to a snack from Arby's when finished. Some of the shirts are going to Nicaragua, some were taken to My Closet, which is a clothing distribution hosted by FBCR youth girls as an outreach, some were given to Puente for distribution, and some are being picked up tomorrow by one of the social workers for Rogers school system. I just found out about the cache of clothing on Monday. It's great to have them distributed in less than a week. God is so good about showing where the puzzle pieces all fit together. We just have to pay attention!
I have enjoyed having the use of Deanna's van this week. I was able to get a lot of things done outside of the house. God is providing rides to most of the places that I need to get to after Deanna gets back. It's hard for me to ask people to take me places because I don't want to impose. But everyone is so gracious about it. I really appreciate it.
I was thrilled to get a phone call from German (from Nicaragua) today. It was great to hear his voice. I feel like he's my little brother and I enjoy working with him very much. It will be so much fun to be back in Nica.
I am counting my blessings tonight. God has been so good to me. Just belonging to Him is more than I can ask for. And He shows His love for me in so many ways. Sometimes the best ones are little things that may not mean anything to some one else, but thrill me. He cares about even the little things. I love the ways that He shows me how much I need Him. Those times are not easy, but they bring me so much closer to Him. No matter what He brings my way, I'm thankful and I'm His.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Monday, February 14, 2011
Monday, February 14, 2011
Happy Valentines' Day! I'm very content today because I know that the best love of all is given to me on a daily basis. The love from my Father God! It's nice to see people showing their love, of all different types, to each other today. I'm so satisfied with the love of my Savior. I can't imagine any better love, so I don't feel I'm missing a thing in this life. My Lord gave His life for me. How wonderful is that?!
I've had a great couple of days. Last week's snow is going away. The cold temps are gone. I was blessed to be a part of the team that put together the Marriage Conference Saturday night for Cuerpo Vivo. It was truly a pleasure to work along side everyone. It was fun to see new friendships being made. The food was great and we enjoyed making the fruit bouquet centerpieces. Creative juices were flowing for decorating (especially on a budget) and the food was so delicious. The youth did a good job serving as waiters for their parents. It was a long day, but not exhausting. It was very satisfying. Three new couples have joined Cuerpo Vivo church from being invited to the evening. The conference is the kickoff for a new fellowship for the parents, who will meet on the first Friday of each month. Childcare will be provided so that the parents can enjoy each others company and also share with each other ideas to be more godly couples and parents. I'm so glad to see this ministry get started.
Speaking of Cuerpo Vivo, I am amazed to see how God is using the leadership of the church to grow the structure of the church as well as grow in numbers. The worship on Sunday was outstanding. I always enjoy Pastor Jaime's messages and I'm excited that I'm understanding more and more of the words he speaks. God is doing wonderful things through His church. I love it!
Sunday, we had another team meeting for the group going to Nicaragua in March. I'm excited to see all that God is going to do there. I'm anxious to get to know the team members better as we prepare and when we actually get on the ground there. German is ready for us to come and I feel like I'm waiting for Christmas to come! It will be soooo wonderful to see all my friends there, especially the ones who have adopted me as their NA Mami. I'm truly blessed.
Deanna is still in Las Vegas visiting Elaine's family. She is having a nice time helping to take care of Elaine's home and kids so that Elaine and Jake can enjoy some 'couple' time and also put energy into the church. I do miss Deanna, though. I know that Jet and Lucy miss her, too. The cat actually got in my lap tonight. That's how lonely she feels, because normally, she and I don't get too buddy-buddy.
Yesterday was full of blessings, wonderful time of worship at Cuerpo Vivo, lunch with the Treviño family, Nica team meeting, and then I was blessed to get to hang out with the Janes' kids while mom and dad went on a Valentine's date.
Today, we had a good staff meeting. I have to say that I'm enjoying them very much. Cliff is a great motivator and team builder. We miss Bro Wes while he is in India and Dubai, but he'll be back later this week.
After staff meeting, Jaime, Oliver and I had a very productive meeting about Cuerpo Vivo. Then I had to high-tail it home to meet Oliver's wife, Erika, so I could sit with her kids while she surprised Oliver with Valentine's dinner. The kids hadn't been here for a while and Ale was a little afraid of Jet until she remembered what a sweetie he is. We had dinner and watched some Disney channel. When Erika got here to pick them up, they wanted to stay. That makes me feel good that they like being with me. It was a nice to have them here. I think Jet enjoyed the company, too.
I fixed a quick side dish for the luncheon our small group will have after the Ladies' Bible Study tomorrow. I love the Bible Study. I'm getting so much out of it. What a blessing to have a flexible schedule that allows me to attend the study.
At the beginning of staff meeting today, Cliff had us go around the table and finish the sentence "What I love about working at FBC Rogers is..." . I said that I love the way the church allows me to serve in whatever way God calls, wherever and whenever He calls. I am blessed beyond words. I get to work with Cuerpo Vivo, local mission projects, different staff members, VOH here and in Nicaragua half of the year, etc. God is so good to me. I really appreciate how much that FBCR supports missionaries, both financially and spiritually. I feel covered in prayer and I feel very loved.
Time for me to hit the hay. It's a busy day again tomorrow and I can't wait. I love my God. I love my life. I love living for Him.
I've had a great couple of days. Last week's snow is going away. The cold temps are gone. I was blessed to be a part of the team that put together the Marriage Conference Saturday night for Cuerpo Vivo. It was truly a pleasure to work along side everyone. It was fun to see new friendships being made. The food was great and we enjoyed making the fruit bouquet centerpieces. Creative juices were flowing for decorating (especially on a budget) and the food was so delicious. The youth did a good job serving as waiters for their parents. It was a long day, but not exhausting. It was very satisfying. Three new couples have joined Cuerpo Vivo church from being invited to the evening. The conference is the kickoff for a new fellowship for the parents, who will meet on the first Friday of each month. Childcare will be provided so that the parents can enjoy each others company and also share with each other ideas to be more godly couples and parents. I'm so glad to see this ministry get started.
Speaking of Cuerpo Vivo, I am amazed to see how God is using the leadership of the church to grow the structure of the church as well as grow in numbers. The worship on Sunday was outstanding. I always enjoy Pastor Jaime's messages and I'm excited that I'm understanding more and more of the words he speaks. God is doing wonderful things through His church. I love it!
Sunday, we had another team meeting for the group going to Nicaragua in March. I'm excited to see all that God is going to do there. I'm anxious to get to know the team members better as we prepare and when we actually get on the ground there. German is ready for us to come and I feel like I'm waiting for Christmas to come! It will be soooo wonderful to see all my friends there, especially the ones who have adopted me as their NA Mami. I'm truly blessed.
Deanna is still in Las Vegas visiting Elaine's family. She is having a nice time helping to take care of Elaine's home and kids so that Elaine and Jake can enjoy some 'couple' time and also put energy into the church. I do miss Deanna, though. I know that Jet and Lucy miss her, too. The cat actually got in my lap tonight. That's how lonely she feels, because normally, she and I don't get too buddy-buddy.
Yesterday was full of blessings, wonderful time of worship at Cuerpo Vivo, lunch with the Treviño family, Nica team meeting, and then I was blessed to get to hang out with the Janes' kids while mom and dad went on a Valentine's date.
Today, we had a good staff meeting. I have to say that I'm enjoying them very much. Cliff is a great motivator and team builder. We miss Bro Wes while he is in India and Dubai, but he'll be back later this week.
After staff meeting, Jaime, Oliver and I had a very productive meeting about Cuerpo Vivo. Then I had to high-tail it home to meet Oliver's wife, Erika, so I could sit with her kids while she surprised Oliver with Valentine's dinner. The kids hadn't been here for a while and Ale was a little afraid of Jet until she remembered what a sweetie he is. We had dinner and watched some Disney channel. When Erika got here to pick them up, they wanted to stay. That makes me feel good that they like being with me. It was a nice to have them here. I think Jet enjoyed the company, too.
I fixed a quick side dish for the luncheon our small group will have after the Ladies' Bible Study tomorrow. I love the Bible Study. I'm getting so much out of it. What a blessing to have a flexible schedule that allows me to attend the study.
At the beginning of staff meeting today, Cliff had us go around the table and finish the sentence "What I love about working at FBC Rogers is..." . I said that I love the way the church allows me to serve in whatever way God calls, wherever and whenever He calls. I am blessed beyond words. I get to work with Cuerpo Vivo, local mission projects, different staff members, VOH here and in Nicaragua half of the year, etc. God is so good to me. I really appreciate how much that FBCR supports missionaries, both financially and spiritually. I feel covered in prayer and I feel very loved.
Time for me to hit the hay. It's a busy day again tomorrow and I can't wait. I love my God. I love my life. I love living for Him.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Thursday, February 10, 2011
It's been a very interesting week so far. Monday was great with a good staff meeting at church. I really enjoyed it. There is a fine feeling of unity among the staff. We missed Bro Wes, though, as he was on his trip to India and Dubai. A couple of the other guys were out, but for those of us who attended, it was nice and productive.
After taking care of the critters at the house and grabbing some dinner, I met with Noemi and Becca at the church to discuss the catering and decorating for the Marriage Conference the next Saturday for Cuerpo Vivo church. Everyone had good ideas and I think the meal will be lovely. After the meeting, Becca and I stopped at Lucy's Diner (a new little place) and had hot chocolate and shared a cinnamon role. We had a nice chat and decided that we need to do this more often, especially when we don't have to plan an event.
I loved the Women's Bible Study on Tuesday morning. It was week 6 and I finally got the chance to actually attend! Between 3 weeks of traveling and 2 weeks of bad weather, I had to miss the first 5 classes. It's a great study. We're going through the Bible chronologically through out the year. God is speaking to me on so many levels through this study. Just little things in each day's reading. Loving it!! Lisa is a wonderful teacher and the large group lecture that she does is very good. Our small group discussion is very interesting and enlightening and encouraging. I can't wait for the next class!
With the threat of a bad winter storm approaching, I was able to fit in 3 meetings on Tuesday. Very productive day! I love those! I was trying to decide if I needed anything more from Walmart or anywhere else before getting snowed in, but I decided I was in good shape here at home.
The weathermen were predicting 2-10" of snow. Quite a range. We ended up having 23" in our front yard and an official total of 22" in Rogers. It was a state record for snowfall. The weather guy said that our yearly average is 6.3". It was crazy! The snow was beautiful though. It was light and fluffy. I guess that's why it stacked up so high. I had to dig a path to the yard for Jet to be able to potty. I even uncovered his favorite bush in the front. He ended up pushing through the snow to the front of the neighbor's house and went on their driveway. The snow was up to Jet's head. It was so funny to watch him. Later in the day I shoveled a path to walk to the road. I didn't try to tackle the driveway. I won't drive Deanna's van until the snow is gone anyway. The next night after the record-breaking snowfall, we had record-breaking cold temps. Rogers was -6 over night. Bentonville (next town north) was at -15. It was unbelievable. Thankfully, we didn't have any wind or the windchill would have been brutal. We will be having a few more nights of cold weather and then by next week we'll be in the 60's. Crazy!
I've been working away inside, same as usual. I'm very blessed to be able to work from home. I think Jet likes to have me here since Deanna is gone for a few weeks. I'm trying not to spoil him too much.
Last night I was awakened by a crash and then the sound of movement. At first, I thought someone had broken into the house. Then I thought more about it and determined that no robber in their right mind would think that they could get away in this snow and on these roads. So I went to investigate and found that the cat was having a little party all by herself. I finally went back to sleep (after reading a while to calm down) and was a little tired this morning. Of course, the cat slept off her party hangover. She slept all day today, so she will probably be prowling around again tonight. She and I aren't exactly buddies (I'm allergic to her) but we tolerate each other most of the time. She needs to be reminded that I'm the only thing between her and starvation while Deanna's gone. hmmm
We're having another team meeting this Sunday for the Nicaragua Spring Break trip. We'll be there in about 6 weeks. Actually, I'll be there in about 5 weeks. I can't wait to get there. Especially if it keeps snowing here! Seriously, I want for our team to feel connected to the people in Nica and to be prepared to open up to them and to prepare their hearts to let God flow through them.
Bro Wes and Mike Shively are traveling to India and Dubai to work with some of our missionaries these next 2 weeks. They have already witnessed and been a part of many wonderful things that God has doing there. I know that Wes and Mike are being blessed beyond words.
I'm helping to organize a small team to Dubai in April. I won't be going this time, unless God provides a plane ticket for me, but I'm glad to be helpful in getting things in place for the others going. I hope to be able to go to Dubai later in the year, maybe early fall.
I haven't worked on Spanish studies for a couple of days. I hope to be more caught up on work tomorrow so that I can spend a good chunk of the day on Spanish.
I just talked to Deanna on the phone. She's glad to be missing the cold and snow. It's cool in Las Vegas, but still lovely. Today is the 4th anniversary of her husband, Doug's, homecoming to heaven. Elaine (her daughter) wrote a beautiful note on her blog. I wanted Deanna to know that I was thinking about her. We discussed Jet and the cat and their antics. I'm very blessed to be welcomed to live here with her. She was thanking me on the phone the other day for living here and taking care of the house and critters for her. It gives her peace of mind. God has made it a good exchange for us.
Lots of things to be thankful for. Way too many to remember or count, but I should try my hardest to do that and to thank my God for everything. He's so good to me.
After taking care of the critters at the house and grabbing some dinner, I met with Noemi and Becca at the church to discuss the catering and decorating for the Marriage Conference the next Saturday for Cuerpo Vivo church. Everyone had good ideas and I think the meal will be lovely. After the meeting, Becca and I stopped at Lucy's Diner (a new little place) and had hot chocolate and shared a cinnamon role. We had a nice chat and decided that we need to do this more often, especially when we don't have to plan an event.
I loved the Women's Bible Study on Tuesday morning. It was week 6 and I finally got the chance to actually attend! Between 3 weeks of traveling and 2 weeks of bad weather, I had to miss the first 5 classes. It's a great study. We're going through the Bible chronologically through out the year. God is speaking to me on so many levels through this study. Just little things in each day's reading. Loving it!! Lisa is a wonderful teacher and the large group lecture that she does is very good. Our small group discussion is very interesting and enlightening and encouraging. I can't wait for the next class!
With the threat of a bad winter storm approaching, I was able to fit in 3 meetings on Tuesday. Very productive day! I love those! I was trying to decide if I needed anything more from Walmart or anywhere else before getting snowed in, but I decided I was in good shape here at home.
The weathermen were predicting 2-10" of snow. Quite a range. We ended up having 23" in our front yard and an official total of 22" in Rogers. It was a state record for snowfall. The weather guy said that our yearly average is 6.3". It was crazy! The snow was beautiful though. It was light and fluffy. I guess that's why it stacked up so high. I had to dig a path to the yard for Jet to be able to potty. I even uncovered his favorite bush in the front. He ended up pushing through the snow to the front of the neighbor's house and went on their driveway. The snow was up to Jet's head. It was so funny to watch him. Later in the day I shoveled a path to walk to the road. I didn't try to tackle the driveway. I won't drive Deanna's van until the snow is gone anyway. The next night after the record-breaking snowfall, we had record-breaking cold temps. Rogers was -6 over night. Bentonville (next town north) was at -15. It was unbelievable. Thankfully, we didn't have any wind or the windchill would have been brutal. We will be having a few more nights of cold weather and then by next week we'll be in the 60's. Crazy!
I've been working away inside, same as usual. I'm very blessed to be able to work from home. I think Jet likes to have me here since Deanna is gone for a few weeks. I'm trying not to spoil him too much.
Last night I was awakened by a crash and then the sound of movement. At first, I thought someone had broken into the house. Then I thought more about it and determined that no robber in their right mind would think that they could get away in this snow and on these roads. So I went to investigate and found that the cat was having a little party all by herself. I finally went back to sleep (after reading a while to calm down) and was a little tired this morning. Of course, the cat slept off her party hangover. She slept all day today, so she will probably be prowling around again tonight. She and I aren't exactly buddies (I'm allergic to her) but we tolerate each other most of the time. She needs to be reminded that I'm the only thing between her and starvation while Deanna's gone. hmmm
We're having another team meeting this Sunday for the Nicaragua Spring Break trip. We'll be there in about 6 weeks. Actually, I'll be there in about 5 weeks. I can't wait to get there. Especially if it keeps snowing here! Seriously, I want for our team to feel connected to the people in Nica and to be prepared to open up to them and to prepare their hearts to let God flow through them.
Bro Wes and Mike Shively are traveling to India and Dubai to work with some of our missionaries these next 2 weeks. They have already witnessed and been a part of many wonderful things that God has doing there. I know that Wes and Mike are being blessed beyond words.
I'm helping to organize a small team to Dubai in April. I won't be going this time, unless God provides a plane ticket for me, but I'm glad to be helpful in getting things in place for the others going. I hope to be able to go to Dubai later in the year, maybe early fall.
I haven't worked on Spanish studies for a couple of days. I hope to be more caught up on work tomorrow so that I can spend a good chunk of the day on Spanish.
I just talked to Deanna on the phone. She's glad to be missing the cold and snow. It's cool in Las Vegas, but still lovely. Today is the 4th anniversary of her husband, Doug's, homecoming to heaven. Elaine (her daughter) wrote a beautiful note on her blog. I wanted Deanna to know that I was thinking about her. We discussed Jet and the cat and their antics. I'm very blessed to be welcomed to live here with her. She was thanking me on the phone the other day for living here and taking care of the house and critters for her. It gives her peace of mind. God has made it a good exchange for us.
Lots of things to be thankful for. Way too many to remember or count, but I should try my hardest to do that and to thank my God for everything. He's so good to me.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
It's been a while since I posted. In fact, it was the night before I left for my visit to Indiana. I've been back for 3 weeks now.
My flights to Indiana went through Chicago with a nice layover. I left the house at 5am (thank you Angela for the ride!) and I got to airport early. Upon check-in, I was told that my flight was going to be delayed. But the flight before it was being delayed, too, so they changed me to the earlier delayed flight. Therefore, I left 15 minutes earlier than planned. ok... I enjoyed my layover in Chicago and got to have a quick breakfast and spend time reading my Kindle (favorite Christmas present of all time). My flight to Louisville was going to be delayed, so I called my sister and niece and they said no problem, they were already in Louisville shopping. The flight was uneventful and relaxing, but by the time I got to baggage claim, I had been traveling the same amount of hours as if I had driven there. We had an early dinner and headed home. I was glad that their time is an hour earlier than AR, so I was ready to go to bed early!
My week was spent hanging out at Sandy's house with my two great-nephews, running errands, shopping, visiting family members, and of course, eating. The relationships in my family are pretty dysfunctional and I think I'm the only one who is actually speaking to everyone else. Of course, that can't happen at the same time, since not everyone is welcome in each other's house. I did get the chance to see everyone at least once.
I couldn't get internet hardly at all at my sister Sandy's house, where I was staying. She has dial up and it was iffy most of the time. Also, there were moments when I couldn't even get cell service. so I spent most of the 10 days dealing with cyber withdrawals! I had some work to get done, so I wrote my emails as word documents and then attached them to emails when I went to my niece's house one day. There was a lot of snow there, just like here in AR, so we were snowed in for a day or so. I was excited to get to visit Stacey's house and use her internet! :)
I had a lot of fun with my great-nephews. Colten is 1 and Conner is 4 1/2. I hadn't been there in three years, so Conner has grown up so much, and of course, I hadn't seen Colten before. I loved being with them. Conner is a wonderful big-cousin. He is more like a big-brother. He takes such good care of Colten and is a big help to my sister, who cares for Colten 5 days a week and Conner 3 afternoons a week. Plus all the times they spend the night!
Dad actually asked me about my work as a missionary in Nicaragua. I think that's the first time he has asked me a question about myself in years. I was glad to share with him. Only my brother-in-law, Rob, goes to church, and in fact, most don't want to hear anything religious. I'm used to being around believers and I guess I take it for granted to be able to have open conversations about God and His direction of my life.
Conner's half brother, Isaac, had a birthday while I was there and Sandy baked him a cake and had me decorate it. Suffice it to say that I'm not a cake decorator. But Sandy liked it and Isaac wasn't too picky, so it was fine. Sandy and I did a lot clearance shopping during the week and on Sunday, Terry (Sandy's husband) took us on a 3 hour drive to Florence KY, just south of Cincinnati OH to a great mall with unbelievable clearance prices. We took little highways and back roads. There was still snow everywhere and it was really pretty to drive along the river. We drove through a little, tiny town called Rabbit Hash. It was literally 2 stores on a corner and then some houses in the country. I did find it on googlemaps. How funny.
My flights home were both delayed a little, but I didn't mind. I like being able to sit by myself and read. I got to have a yummy dinner at Chili's Too in Dallas airport. We boarded late and once the door was shut, the Flight Attendant noticed that we were a passenger short. The problem was that he had his boarding pass scanned, but then didn't get on the plane. This is a big deal regarding security. They reopened the plane door, chatted with the pilots, chatted with the ticket agents, called out the passenger's name multiple times, etc. After 30 minutes, they found the passenger still in the airport, but I don't know where. He got on the plane and nothing else was said. We left the gate an hour late. It was good to land again in AR. We were only about 45 minutes late, but then the machinery that handles the baggage was messed up and there 3 plane loads of people waiting on their bags. I never knew that 3 plane loads of people were ever at XNA airport at the same time. LOL. I finally got my bags and headed outside to catch my ride home with my friend Donna. Even though it was not too bad traveling, it was good to get back.
I'm enjoying the Chronological Bible Study. I think it will give me a whole new perspective on the stories in the Bible. I've spent a lot of time in the last few days studying Spanish. I got out of the habit of daily study and I really need to keep it up. I'm so hungry to become fluent. My poor brain gets so tired sometimes, though.
I'm glad to be back home for a while (until March 15) and to get back into some kind of routine. I hope to get many things accomplished (work, Bible Study, Spanish,etc.) in the weeks when I'm in Rogers. My main desire to accomplish what God has planned for me. Even if I don't understand or it's not on my list. I pray that I will always listen for His voice and be obedient.
My flights to Indiana went through Chicago with a nice layover. I left the house at 5am (thank you Angela for the ride!) and I got to airport early. Upon check-in, I was told that my flight was going to be delayed. But the flight before it was being delayed, too, so they changed me to the earlier delayed flight. Therefore, I left 15 minutes earlier than planned. ok... I enjoyed my layover in Chicago and got to have a quick breakfast and spend time reading my Kindle (favorite Christmas present of all time). My flight to Louisville was going to be delayed, so I called my sister and niece and they said no problem, they were already in Louisville shopping. The flight was uneventful and relaxing, but by the time I got to baggage claim, I had been traveling the same amount of hours as if I had driven there. We had an early dinner and headed home. I was glad that their time is an hour earlier than AR, so I was ready to go to bed early!
My week was spent hanging out at Sandy's house with my two great-nephews, running errands, shopping, visiting family members, and of course, eating. The relationships in my family are pretty dysfunctional and I think I'm the only one who is actually speaking to everyone else. Of course, that can't happen at the same time, since not everyone is welcome in each other's house. I did get the chance to see everyone at least once.
I couldn't get internet hardly at all at my sister Sandy's house, where I was staying. She has dial up and it was iffy most of the time. Also, there were moments when I couldn't even get cell service. so I spent most of the 10 days dealing with cyber withdrawals! I had some work to get done, so I wrote my emails as word documents and then attached them to emails when I went to my niece's house one day. There was a lot of snow there, just like here in AR, so we were snowed in for a day or so. I was excited to get to visit Stacey's house and use her internet! :)
I had a lot of fun with my great-nephews. Colten is 1 and Conner is 4 1/2. I hadn't been there in three years, so Conner has grown up so much, and of course, I hadn't seen Colten before. I loved being with them. Conner is a wonderful big-cousin. He is more like a big-brother. He takes such good care of Colten and is a big help to my sister, who cares for Colten 5 days a week and Conner 3 afternoons a week. Plus all the times they spend the night!
Dad actually asked me about my work as a missionary in Nicaragua. I think that's the first time he has asked me a question about myself in years. I was glad to share with him. Only my brother-in-law, Rob, goes to church, and in fact, most don't want to hear anything religious. I'm used to being around believers and I guess I take it for granted to be able to have open conversations about God and His direction of my life.
Conner's half brother, Isaac, had a birthday while I was there and Sandy baked him a cake and had me decorate it. Suffice it to say that I'm not a cake decorator. But Sandy liked it and Isaac wasn't too picky, so it was fine. Sandy and I did a lot clearance shopping during the week and on Sunday, Terry (Sandy's husband) took us on a 3 hour drive to Florence KY, just south of Cincinnati OH to a great mall with unbelievable clearance prices. We took little highways and back roads. There was still snow everywhere and it was really pretty to drive along the river. We drove through a little, tiny town called Rabbit Hash. It was literally 2 stores on a corner and then some houses in the country. I did find it on googlemaps. How funny.
My flights home were both delayed a little, but I didn't mind. I like being able to sit by myself and read. I got to have a yummy dinner at Chili's Too in Dallas airport. We boarded late and once the door was shut, the Flight Attendant noticed that we were a passenger short. The problem was that he had his boarding pass scanned, but then didn't get on the plane. This is a big deal regarding security. They reopened the plane door, chatted with the pilots, chatted with the ticket agents, called out the passenger's name multiple times, etc. After 30 minutes, they found the passenger still in the airport, but I don't know where. He got on the plane and nothing else was said. We left the gate an hour late. It was good to land again in AR. We were only about 45 minutes late, but then the machinery that handles the baggage was messed up and there 3 plane loads of people waiting on their bags. I never knew that 3 plane loads of people were ever at XNA airport at the same time. LOL. I finally got my bags and headed outside to catch my ride home with my friend Donna. Even though it was not too bad traveling, it was good to get back.
I'm enjoying the Chronological Bible Study. I think it will give me a whole new perspective on the stories in the Bible. I've spent a lot of time in the last few days studying Spanish. I got out of the habit of daily study and I really need to keep it up. I'm so hungry to become fluent. My poor brain gets so tired sometimes, though.
I'm glad to be back home for a while (until March 15) and to get back into some kind of routine. I hope to get many things accomplished (work, Bible Study, Spanish,etc.) in the weeks when I'm in Rogers. My main desire to accomplish what God has planned for me. Even if I don't understand or it's not on my list. I pray that I will always listen for His voice and be obedient.
Monday, January 17, 2011
January 17, 2011
It's been a busy day. I started out on the computer trying to figure out what I did wrong when backing up files from my old laptop to my external hard drive. I worked a little more on my to-do list for ministry. Then I packed everything up and headed to the Olive St offices to do some things and get ready for the Staff meeting. Kellie was kind enough to come by and pick me up. She lives near by now, so it wasn't too much trouble to pick me up on her lunch hour.
When I left the house, Deanna was babysitting for sweet, little Allie, her great-granddaughter. She is so cute and growing so much. it was nice to get to see her.
At the church offices, I got some documents signed and sent for the plane tickets for the March missions team to Nic. woohoo! I'm excited about this team coming down. We're going to have a great time serving together.
Before Staff meeting, Brian checked out my computers and the hard drive to figure out what is going on. The old laptop was acting funny, but the files seemed to be on the hard drive, even if the old computer didn't recognize it. I'm glad that I didn't lose anything.
Staff meeting was interesting. I hadn't been in one in over 2 months, since I was in Nic and last week I was sick and missed it. It was different not having John or Raleigh there. Cliff was a new addition. Eric Hansen, a family from our church who are missionaries in Indiana, shared what their ministry is like. It was good to hear. They will be in AR until I leave IN to return. We'll cross paths going in different directions. I would love to spend time with them in one place or the other to catch up. Maybe one of these days...
One of the assignments for the staff is to turn in an example of how we spend our time during the week. I don't keep 'office hours', so it will be interesting to put my schedule on paper. I do most of my computer work early in the am and especially in the evenings.
There's a staff retreat on Monday and Tuesday of next week, but I'll be in IN, so I will miss out on it. I'll have to email Bro Wes my ministry plans and status, so that he can share it with the team. I will miss hearing what the others have planned, although I'll be told later, it's nice to be there when it is all being discussed.
Brian worked on my computers a little and I ended up missing the chance to go to Springdale today for the Samaritan's Feet event, but that's okay. I appreciated all that Brian did to back up my files. He ended up sending me home in his truck while he stayed at the church for girl's basketball practice (he co-coaches with my friend Bob). Bob dropped him off here at the house to pick up his truck. That was sooo very nice of him. Brian will finish up transferring my stuff between computers after I get back from Indiana next week. I'm so glad that it was salvageable. I'm dangerous with technology! ha
It feels so good to have everything already packed and ready for my trip. Since today was kind of crazy on logistics, I had packed yesterday. No matter what my schedule was today, I still didn't have to worry about getting home to do anything for the trip. That was so nice. I fixed some soy bacon and eggbeaters with mushrooms and cheese for dinner. Now I'm enjoying some hot chocolate and going to bed early.
I don't look forward to getting up at 4am, but it will be nice to get to meet my sister and niece in mid afternoon to eat and shop on the way to their house. The 10 days will go by very quickly, I'm sure.
I'm praying for boldness and discernment to be able to share with my family about salvation in Christ. It is so hard to witness to family. They tend to shut you up if they don't want to listen. I asked for prayer regarding this in staff meeting today. Lord, help me to carry on with the desire to see all people, even my crazy family, come to know You as Savior and Lord. Amen!!!
When I left the house, Deanna was babysitting for sweet, little Allie, her great-granddaughter. She is so cute and growing so much. it was nice to get to see her.
At the church offices, I got some documents signed and sent for the plane tickets for the March missions team to Nic. woohoo! I'm excited about this team coming down. We're going to have a great time serving together.
Before Staff meeting, Brian checked out my computers and the hard drive to figure out what is going on. The old laptop was acting funny, but the files seemed to be on the hard drive, even if the old computer didn't recognize it. I'm glad that I didn't lose anything.
Staff meeting was interesting. I hadn't been in one in over 2 months, since I was in Nic and last week I was sick and missed it. It was different not having John or Raleigh there. Cliff was a new addition. Eric Hansen, a family from our church who are missionaries in Indiana, shared what their ministry is like. It was good to hear. They will be in AR until I leave IN to return. We'll cross paths going in different directions. I would love to spend time with them in one place or the other to catch up. Maybe one of these days...
One of the assignments for the staff is to turn in an example of how we spend our time during the week. I don't keep 'office hours', so it will be interesting to put my schedule on paper. I do most of my computer work early in the am and especially in the evenings.
There's a staff retreat on Monday and Tuesday of next week, but I'll be in IN, so I will miss out on it. I'll have to email Bro Wes my ministry plans and status, so that he can share it with the team. I will miss hearing what the others have planned, although I'll be told later, it's nice to be there when it is all being discussed.
Brian worked on my computers a little and I ended up missing the chance to go to Springdale today for the Samaritan's Feet event, but that's okay. I appreciated all that Brian did to back up my files. He ended up sending me home in his truck while he stayed at the church for girl's basketball practice (he co-coaches with my friend Bob). Bob dropped him off here at the house to pick up his truck. That was sooo very nice of him. Brian will finish up transferring my stuff between computers after I get back from Indiana next week. I'm so glad that it was salvageable. I'm dangerous with technology! ha
It feels so good to have everything already packed and ready for my trip. Since today was kind of crazy on logistics, I had packed yesterday. No matter what my schedule was today, I still didn't have to worry about getting home to do anything for the trip. That was so nice. I fixed some soy bacon and eggbeaters with mushrooms and cheese for dinner. Now I'm enjoying some hot chocolate and going to bed early.
I don't look forward to getting up at 4am, but it will be nice to get to meet my sister and niece in mid afternoon to eat and shop on the way to their house. The 10 days will go by very quickly, I'm sure.
I'm praying for boldness and discernment to be able to share with my family about salvation in Christ. It is so hard to witness to family. They tend to shut you up if they don't want to listen. I asked for prayer regarding this in staff meeting today. Lord, help me to carry on with the desire to see all people, even my crazy family, come to know You as Savior and Lord. Amen!!!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
January 16, 2011
Sunday night.
I watched FBCR on TV this morning. I always enjoy hearing Pastor Wes' messages. I missed the music, but I needed to stay home until time for Cuerpo Vivo. I'm thankful to have FBCR as a strong faith base in my life.
I really enjoyed the worship service this morning at Cuerpo Vivo. I feel so much in the presence of the Lord during the music. I finally got to hear Andres sing and play his guitar today. He does a great job of praising the Lord with his gift. Today's service was focused on missions and how Cuerpo Vivo is reaching out to touch the world. (and the service started out with Baptisms!!)
A group from FBC Garfield was in attendance to share about their mission trip to Monterrey MX that included a a family from Cuerpo Vivo. It was wonderful to hear about their on-going ministry to touch people's lives and also to equip and train churches in the Monterrey area to continue discipling the new Christians.
I also shared about my work with Voice of Hope Ministries in Nicaragua. It was the first time I have been in church at Cuerpo Vivo for 2 months and I have really missed all my friends there.
Russ and Jennifer Huffstetler also were recognized for their work in Monterrey in the past (until it got too dangerous to travel there). At the end of the service, Jaime had all of us come to the front to be prayed over. It was very sweet. I love the chance to be gathered with people who openly love God so much.
I'm working on backing up some of the files from my old laptop to a hard drive. I sure hope that I'm doing this right. I'm always afraid that I will accidentally delete something important. My old laptop will be donated to Puente, a networking service that is serving along side Cuerpo Vivo, to reach out to people needing help in finding the resources and processes to make their lives easier, legal and appropriate in this new country. I'm glad that I can give something usable.
I've spent the afternoon doing laundry and packing for my trip to Indiana on Tuesday (early) to visit family for a week. My day tomorrow will be really busy, so I wanted to get everything packed tonight. I think I'm 99% done, so that's pretty good!
Tomorrow I will go to the Olive St church offices to get some things done and meet with Brian Sander about the Youth Spring Break Mission Trip to Nicaragua in March. Then I'll attend Staff meeting (my first in 2 months). Then Nana Ruth will drive me to Springdale to connect with a rep from Samaritan's Feet, a ministry that does foot washing, shares the Gospel and gives shoes to those in need. I'm excited about seeing this ministry in action and to talk to the rep about the possibility of them coming to Nicaragua in the near future. I love seeing how God uses different people in different ways to reach His world.
It's time for bed now. I love the life that God is allowing me to live right now. He gives me my dreams, He gives me gifts to be used for Him, He takes me places to to do His work, He finds a way to use even worthless me to further His Kingdom. I am so blessed.
I watched FBCR on TV this morning. I always enjoy hearing Pastor Wes' messages. I missed the music, but I needed to stay home until time for Cuerpo Vivo. I'm thankful to have FBCR as a strong faith base in my life.
I really enjoyed the worship service this morning at Cuerpo Vivo. I feel so much in the presence of the Lord during the music. I finally got to hear Andres sing and play his guitar today. He does a great job of praising the Lord with his gift. Today's service was focused on missions and how Cuerpo Vivo is reaching out to touch the world. (and the service started out with Baptisms!!)
A group from FBC Garfield was in attendance to share about their mission trip to Monterrey MX that included a a family from Cuerpo Vivo. It was wonderful to hear about their on-going ministry to touch people's lives and also to equip and train churches in the Monterrey area to continue discipling the new Christians.
I also shared about my work with Voice of Hope Ministries in Nicaragua. It was the first time I have been in church at Cuerpo Vivo for 2 months and I have really missed all my friends there.
Russ and Jennifer Huffstetler also were recognized for their work in Monterrey in the past (until it got too dangerous to travel there). At the end of the service, Jaime had all of us come to the front to be prayed over. It was very sweet. I love the chance to be gathered with people who openly love God so much.
I'm working on backing up some of the files from my old laptop to a hard drive. I sure hope that I'm doing this right. I'm always afraid that I will accidentally delete something important. My old laptop will be donated to Puente, a networking service that is serving along side Cuerpo Vivo, to reach out to people needing help in finding the resources and processes to make their lives easier, legal and appropriate in this new country. I'm glad that I can give something usable.
I've spent the afternoon doing laundry and packing for my trip to Indiana on Tuesday (early) to visit family for a week. My day tomorrow will be really busy, so I wanted to get everything packed tonight. I think I'm 99% done, so that's pretty good!
Tomorrow I will go to the Olive St church offices to get some things done and meet with Brian Sander about the Youth Spring Break Mission Trip to Nicaragua in March. Then I'll attend Staff meeting (my first in 2 months). Then Nana Ruth will drive me to Springdale to connect with a rep from Samaritan's Feet, a ministry that does foot washing, shares the Gospel and gives shoes to those in need. I'm excited about seeing this ministry in action and to talk to the rep about the possibility of them coming to Nicaragua in the near future. I love seeing how God uses different people in different ways to reach His world.
It's time for bed now. I love the life that God is allowing me to live right now. He gives me my dreams, He gives me gifts to be used for Him, He takes me places to to do His work, He finds a way to use even worthless me to further His Kingdom. I am so blessed.
Friday, January 14, 2011
January 14, 2011
Friday afternoon.
Settled in for the weekend. Until time for church on Sunday, anyway.
Yesterday, I went to Dr Gartman to see about getting a root canal. After some intense diagnostic tests, he shared with me a very detailed explanation of what is going on with my tooth and what he suggests I do to save the tooth. I really appreciated his was of making me understand everything. Unfortunately, the cost for all the work would end up close to $5,000. I only get $8,000 support a year from the church as a missionary, and I was not about to spend that kind of money on the tooth. Besides, I wasn't all that attached (sentimentally) to the tooth. I had been ready to pull it from the beginning. Dr Gartman was very understanding and called Dr Jeffries back and had a discussion about my options. An appointment was made to pull the tooth after lunch. The people at Dr Gartman's office were really nice. I would recommend them highly to anyone who has to have this type of work done.
I was nervous about my appointment, but I was sooooo ready to be rid of this tooth and the horrible pain. Dr. Jeffries was ready for me when I got there. He said that he hated pulling my tooth, but understood that I couldn't afford fixing it. So he promptly shot me full of numbing juice. While we were waiting for it to take effect, he shared pictures from his mission trip to Peru from 2 years ago. It was nice to talk about missions and ministry. Then he got out his lovely (NOT) tools and pulled that sucker out! It wasn't as bad as I had imagined. It all went very quickly. They only charged $105, so I was very happy. Deanna said that we weren't even in the office 30 minutes. It was all over quickly and I enjoyed it (as much as you can enjoy having a tooth pulled) and appreciated getting to interact with Dr Jeffries and Diane, his assistant. They treated me so well.
I've been able to cut my pain pills in half. There is just some pain from the extraction process and the horrible pain from the nerve in the tooth is gone. Yay! I'm glad to have this behind me.
I slept pretty well, with only 1/2 pain pill, and woke up feeling better than I have in a long time. I'm so thankful. I know that through everything, even simple tooth pain, God has me in His hands and has a purpose for it all. I was able to share with people in 2 different offices about serving as a Missionary here and in Nic, about relying on God and how faithful He is. awesome.
Today, I met with Mike and Sherry Hulsey, Directors of Voice of Hope Ministries, about taking on more responsibilities with the ministry. I'm thrilled. I love this ministry very much and I'm excited to help with planning and sharing and helping to lead teams. It will be a busy spring and summer and I can't wait.
I have quite a to-do list going and I love being able to check things off. I try to be a good steward of the time that God allows me to have each day. My schedule is very flexible and I have even had people tell me that they don't think I actually work, since I don't go to an office for regular hours. Then I have Deanna fussing at me sometimes for working too much, since she sees me working here at home. I know that I'm trying to balance work time, study time (spanish), Bible study time, rest, etc. each day. All I can do is to ask God to show me how He wants me to spend HIS time that He allows me to have. Remembering that is the key.
I need to put together a presentation from my last stay in Nic to share with the congregation at Cuerpo Vivo on Sunday. That will be fun to put together. I also need to put together some pics for sharing with one of the women's Sunday School classes at their meeting in February. I love talking about what God is doing in Nicaragua. I hope that people find it encouraging for them.
My only desire is to serve God as well as I can. I want Him to be glorified and praised. I want people to come to know Him as Savior and Lord. I want to show my gratitude for the life He allows me to live. He is my ALL.
Settled in for the weekend. Until time for church on Sunday, anyway.
Yesterday, I went to Dr Gartman to see about getting a root canal. After some intense diagnostic tests, he shared with me a very detailed explanation of what is going on with my tooth and what he suggests I do to save the tooth. I really appreciated his was of making me understand everything. Unfortunately, the cost for all the work would end up close to $5,000. I only get $8,000 support a year from the church as a missionary, and I was not about to spend that kind of money on the tooth. Besides, I wasn't all that attached (sentimentally) to the tooth. I had been ready to pull it from the beginning. Dr Gartman was very understanding and called Dr Jeffries back and had a discussion about my options. An appointment was made to pull the tooth after lunch. The people at Dr Gartman's office were really nice. I would recommend them highly to anyone who has to have this type of work done.
I was nervous about my appointment, but I was sooooo ready to be rid of this tooth and the horrible pain. Dr. Jeffries was ready for me when I got there. He said that he hated pulling my tooth, but understood that I couldn't afford fixing it. So he promptly shot me full of numbing juice. While we were waiting for it to take effect, he shared pictures from his mission trip to Peru from 2 years ago. It was nice to talk about missions and ministry. Then he got out his lovely (NOT) tools and pulled that sucker out! It wasn't as bad as I had imagined. It all went very quickly. They only charged $105, so I was very happy. Deanna said that we weren't even in the office 30 minutes. It was all over quickly and I enjoyed it (as much as you can enjoy having a tooth pulled) and appreciated getting to interact with Dr Jeffries and Diane, his assistant. They treated me so well.
I've been able to cut my pain pills in half. There is just some pain from the extraction process and the horrible pain from the nerve in the tooth is gone. Yay! I'm glad to have this behind me.
I slept pretty well, with only 1/2 pain pill, and woke up feeling better than I have in a long time. I'm so thankful. I know that through everything, even simple tooth pain, God has me in His hands and has a purpose for it all. I was able to share with people in 2 different offices about serving as a Missionary here and in Nic, about relying on God and how faithful He is. awesome.
Today, I met with Mike and Sherry Hulsey, Directors of Voice of Hope Ministries, about taking on more responsibilities with the ministry. I'm thrilled. I love this ministry very much and I'm excited to help with planning and sharing and helping to lead teams. It will be a busy spring and summer and I can't wait.
I have quite a to-do list going and I love being able to check things off. I try to be a good steward of the time that God allows me to have each day. My schedule is very flexible and I have even had people tell me that they don't think I actually work, since I don't go to an office for regular hours. Then I have Deanna fussing at me sometimes for working too much, since she sees me working here at home. I know that I'm trying to balance work time, study time (spanish), Bible study time, rest, etc. each day. All I can do is to ask God to show me how He wants me to spend HIS time that He allows me to have. Remembering that is the key.
I need to put together a presentation from my last stay in Nic to share with the congregation at Cuerpo Vivo on Sunday. That will be fun to put together. I also need to put together some pics for sharing with one of the women's Sunday School classes at their meeting in February. I love talking about what God is doing in Nicaragua. I hope that people find it encouraging for them.
My only desire is to serve God as well as I can. I want Him to be glorified and praised. I want people to come to know Him as Savior and Lord. I want to show my gratitude for the life He allows me to live. He is my ALL.
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