This week has been pretty good.
I met John Caubble over at the new property for our weekly update meeting. The weather was great! We met outside and enjoyed the breeze. It was a nice long meeting about a lot of things... local missions, Nicaragua, Dubai... It was good to catch up.
I worked from home on Wednesday afternoon/evening. It was good to be in the newly organized office part of the den. Now I just need to tackle the rest of the room!
Thursday I got to meet with Angie Milner from FBCR. We had lots to talk about and catch up on. She is a good sounding board and encourager for me about local missions. I really appreciate her friendship and all she does for her family and ABF class and her friends. She is a special woman. We met at the outside play area of the Dairy Queen in Lowell, so that her son and her babysitting boy could play. We ended up getting a little bit of sun, since we sat and talked for hours. It was very pleasant weather.
Friday, I got to spend a few hours on the sewing projects that I've been saving up. I altered 5 dresses, 2 skirts and 2 tops. I just have to hem a few of the dresses, alter & hem another dress and sew together a skirt that I'm making tweaking a pattern for. We'll see how it turns out. I'll be granny sitting this weekend and I can do all the hemming then while I'm talking with Miss Juanita. I spent some time studying a book on the Holy Spirit and reading. I need to make more time for that.
Friday evening was spent at the Hulsey's house. Ms Mary came over from Searcy to spend the weekend. Kaylie and Kearsten and I spent the night. The girls came later in the evening, so I had dinner with Mike, Sherry & Manuel, Mary and Chris and Katie (Mike and Sherry's son and daughter-in-law). It was homemade lasagna and salad. It was so good. Butterfinger cake was for dessert. I was stuffed by bedtime. We sat around and chatted a little and the girls looked at family pictures. Manuel kept us entertained, too. I just LOVED their house. They built it to sell and it's gorgeous!
Saturday morning, Sherry made a big breakfast and we chatted a little bit more. The girls left and then Sherry, Mary and I relaxed and chatted even more. Manuel packed his 'phone', computer, watch, sunglasses and lightsaber into his briefcase and went to work with Mike (showing a model home). Us girls took some chairs to them, so we got to tour a couple of houses. Then Manuel decided to come home with the 'ladies'. We had some leftover lasagna (just as good as yesterday!) and then Manuel and I had a great time of pretending. He was a preacher (he imitates Bro Wes, and very well, I might add) and a worship leader (he does a great job a la Mark). I was his wife (he called me Honey) and Mary was our daughter. It was fun and funny. I stopped by Hobby Lobby on the way home and picked up a wedding shower gift and some fabric. Then I went home and took a long nap.
Today I went to FBCR for worship and then headed across town to Cuerpo Vivo. Both were very good. I came straight home and Deanna was surprised to see me before 2pm. I had some leftovers for lunch and laid down to rest and look at the sale ads from the Sunday paper. I love doing that, even though I don't shop much (except for thrift stores and clearance racks). Karyn, Rob and Bryon came over to hang a mirror above Deanna's fireplace. It looks pretty good.
My ears have been stopped up ever since I got back from Nic a few weeks ago. I've tried different things, but it keeps coming and going. Today, I couldn't really understand the music at either church and the sound just blended together and I couldn't follow a melody. I got some pharmacuetical advice and ran to Walmart to get some drugs. While there, I picked up a baby shower gift and some tubs to store some of my stuff in and also to use as my 'checked baggage' when I go back to Nic.
I worked on some projects here at the house and then got on the computer. It's been a pretty satisfying week. I'm relaxed and ready for bed. I have some more meetings this next week to get some projects lined out for the rest of the year. I hope to have all my responsibilities in order before I leave at the end of October. I work better with a deadline.
I'm so thankful to God for allowing me to be His child and tool in His plan. I am truly blessed by friends and my church families. I love being able to spend my days just working on missions here and wherever He sends me. I'm so thankful.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Tuesday evening. Time is flying by.
Friday, I did a few things to help Cuerpo Vivo get ready for the concert on Saturday evening. In the evening, I worked on some clothing that I needed to alter to take back to Nic. I have 6 items ready to sew and be done. Now, I just have to get myself motivated to fire up the sewing machine...
Saturday morning I took off for the Disaster Relief Training offered by the Arkansas Baptist Convention. I've been through the training twice before, but because I had not had the chance to deploy with the team over the years, I needed to do the 'new' training over again. It's good stuff, so I didn't mind at all. I did the Feeding training this time. The feeding units prepare thousands of meals each day for the Red Cross and Salvation Army to deliver during disasters. Even if I don't get to respond to a disaster, the training will come in handy in other situations.
I was very tired when I got home on Saturday afternoon, so I laid down for a nap. I slept too long and missed the beginning of the concert. I felt a little foggy, so I just stayed home for the evening. But I heard the concert was great.
Sunday morning at FBCR was good. I love the music so much. We heard a few words from PJ, the children's pastor candidate. I liked what he had to say. I think he would be a great addition to our church. Bro Wes' message was really good. I admire him for speaking the truth to the church, even when it steps on toes in major ways. God's truth is righteous, firm and worthy of being followed.
Sunday morning at Cuerpo Vivo was great. The band from the night before did the worship music, along with Oliver. It was very nice. Moncho also shared the message with us. I was blessed by it. Pastor Jaime had special time of prayer for all the families of the church, who came to the altar, to submit their lives and families to God. After that, all the students came to the front and we all prayed over them for this new school year. I love family feeling of the church. Sunday mornings are so pleasant and stress free now that we get to use the sanctuary and children's wing and don't have to set up and take down chairs every week. We can all come and worship together and focus on God and... it's nice.
Monday morning I worked on the 'office area' of the den here at the house. I condensed some files and organized my books. I forgot that I have so many that I want to read. I need to get busy!! It looks a lot nicer in there, anyway. After I finish my sewing projects, another corner will look better. Of course, I have a stack of things to be packed for my next trip to Nic. That pile will just keep growing...
Monday afternoon was staff meeting with the FBCR staff. Then I had a quick meeting with Oliver and Jaime. I ran to get snacks for the Cuerpo Vivo classes and dinner for Oliver and me. Then it was time to do childcare for the classes. Elizabeth helped me with the kids and it was great to have the use of the kid's rooms this year. Elizabeth and Erika (7th grade) helped with the little kids in one room and I had 3 gradeschool boys in another room. It was fun. I got to know some of the kids better that I didn't get to spend much time with last semester. The boys were quizzing me on some Spanish words. I always enjoy that! We had a good night.
This morning was the first Tuesday class for the Fundamentals course. I loved it. It's a challenge since it is taught in Spanish, so I have to work extra hard to keep up. This course will last about 23 weeks or so. I'll be in Nic for part of it, but I'll keep going and checking in with Jaime each week.
This afternoon, Cindy and I worked on my old office at the church, which has become a resource room for ministry supplies for the local missions and puppets. She is a hard worker when it comes to organizing. I like to do it when I'm motivated, but lately I'm too scattered to be focused too long on one project. I need to work on that. Anyway, we got a lot done today. We pulled out the items that I will need for the Block Party on Sept 18, and we labeled and organized the stuff that is staying in the room. Thursday morning we will finish moving stuff down from another room and finish up this resource room. That will one more thing checked off my bucket list of stuff that needs to be handled before I start spending more time in Nic.
I stopped by the grocery store tonight on the way home and got a rotisserie chicken and some veggies and other stuff. Deanna and I enjoyed an openfaced wrap with chicken, tomato, 4 colors of peppers, spinach and cheese. Yum!!! It was funny to watch us try to eat them, but they sure were good! No condiments necessary!
God is working out the timing for me to be back in Nic for about a month starting at the end of October thru Thanksgiving. I'm ready to get back there! God has blessed me so much.
Friday, I did a few things to help Cuerpo Vivo get ready for the concert on Saturday evening. In the evening, I worked on some clothing that I needed to alter to take back to Nic. I have 6 items ready to sew and be done. Now, I just have to get myself motivated to fire up the sewing machine...
Saturday morning I took off for the Disaster Relief Training offered by the Arkansas Baptist Convention. I've been through the training twice before, but because I had not had the chance to deploy with the team over the years, I needed to do the 'new' training over again. It's good stuff, so I didn't mind at all. I did the Feeding training this time. The feeding units prepare thousands of meals each day for the Red Cross and Salvation Army to deliver during disasters. Even if I don't get to respond to a disaster, the training will come in handy in other situations.
I was very tired when I got home on Saturday afternoon, so I laid down for a nap. I slept too long and missed the beginning of the concert. I felt a little foggy, so I just stayed home for the evening. But I heard the concert was great.
Sunday morning at FBCR was good. I love the music so much. We heard a few words from PJ, the children's pastor candidate. I liked what he had to say. I think he would be a great addition to our church. Bro Wes' message was really good. I admire him for speaking the truth to the church, even when it steps on toes in major ways. God's truth is righteous, firm and worthy of being followed.
Sunday morning at Cuerpo Vivo was great. The band from the night before did the worship music, along with Oliver. It was very nice. Moncho also shared the message with us. I was blessed by it. Pastor Jaime had special time of prayer for all the families of the church, who came to the altar, to submit their lives and families to God. After that, all the students came to the front and we all prayed over them for this new school year. I love family feeling of the church. Sunday mornings are so pleasant and stress free now that we get to use the sanctuary and children's wing and don't have to set up and take down chairs every week. We can all come and worship together and focus on God and... it's nice.
Monday morning I worked on the 'office area' of the den here at the house. I condensed some files and organized my books. I forgot that I have so many that I want to read. I need to get busy!! It looks a lot nicer in there, anyway. After I finish my sewing projects, another corner will look better. Of course, I have a stack of things to be packed for my next trip to Nic. That pile will just keep growing...
Monday afternoon was staff meeting with the FBCR staff. Then I had a quick meeting with Oliver and Jaime. I ran to get snacks for the Cuerpo Vivo classes and dinner for Oliver and me. Then it was time to do childcare for the classes. Elizabeth helped me with the kids and it was great to have the use of the kid's rooms this year. Elizabeth and Erika (7th grade) helped with the little kids in one room and I had 3 gradeschool boys in another room. It was fun. I got to know some of the kids better that I didn't get to spend much time with last semester. The boys were quizzing me on some Spanish words. I always enjoy that! We had a good night.
This morning was the first Tuesday class for the Fundamentals course. I loved it. It's a challenge since it is taught in Spanish, so I have to work extra hard to keep up. This course will last about 23 weeks or so. I'll be in Nic for part of it, but I'll keep going and checking in with Jaime each week.
This afternoon, Cindy and I worked on my old office at the church, which has become a resource room for ministry supplies for the local missions and puppets. She is a hard worker when it comes to organizing. I like to do it when I'm motivated, but lately I'm too scattered to be focused too long on one project. I need to work on that. Anyway, we got a lot done today. We pulled out the items that I will need for the Block Party on Sept 18, and we labeled and organized the stuff that is staying in the room. Thursday morning we will finish moving stuff down from another room and finish up this resource room. That will one more thing checked off my bucket list of stuff that needs to be handled before I start spending more time in Nic.
I stopped by the grocery store tonight on the way home and got a rotisserie chicken and some veggies and other stuff. Deanna and I enjoyed an openfaced wrap with chicken, tomato, 4 colors of peppers, spinach and cheese. Yum!!! It was funny to watch us try to eat them, but they sure were good! No condiments necessary!
God is working out the timing for me to be back in Nic for about a month starting at the end of October thru Thanksgiving. I'm ready to get back there! God has blessed me so much.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Thursday evening and I'm relaxing in my chair catching up on some communication.
It's been a productive week. The Compassion Kits for Dubai were completed by noon on Wednesday, ahead of the timetable I had anticipated, thanks to some surprise, hard working volunteers.
Wednesday, I got to attend a lunch meeting with the Hulseys and Brian Sander (FBCR Youth Pastor) regarding a Spring Break mission trip for the Youth to go to serve in Nic with Voice of Hope Ministries. I think we might be having a Youth Crusade during that week. It will be awesome! I enjoyed seeing Manuel and hearing about his school. And the food was pretty good, too!!
Speaking of food, I was blessed to spend a long lunch with Cindy Sigmon today. I had one of my favorite meals (black & blue salad at O'Charleys). We sat and talked for a couple of hours. It was nice to catch up. We're going to work together on a project next week. It will be fun.
I ran some errands and got a few things done at both FBCR buildings. A lot of little things. After I got home, I worked a little bit on some clothes that need altering and did some laundry. It has been a very pleasant, stress-free day.
I found out today that I'm not needed to house/dog-sit this weekend, so I'm going to make the weekend count by getting stuff done here at the house on Friday evening and then probably going to Disaster Relief training on Saturday morning and then a Spanish Christian concert on Saturday evening. That's my plan, anyway...
I delivered a check from FBCR to the counselor and pricipal at Northside Elementary to provide school supplies and other needed items for kids whose families can't provide them. There were some tears shed and many thank yous. Kelly kept saying 'you just don't know how this helps, you just don't know'. Well, I don't know the details, but God knows who needs what, and it was a privilege to be a small tool in HIS plan for those who 'have' to give to those who 'have not'. The principal was still blessed that our Youth wrote a thank you note to the school for letting some of the kids go to do work at the school during the Mission Rogers week in June. The teachers and staff are thankful for the things that FBCR has done to bless them over the past year. They are so glad to have people appreciate them. They work so hard and have less resources than some other schools. I admire all teachers for the work that they do. They need to be thanked in relevant ways. A little love can go a long way...
I have enjoyed spending time with people I run into. Sometimes it's just a quick conversation, sometimes a discussion, sometimes a meal... I love sharing what God is doing in my life and how blessed I feel. I'm grateful to be able to thank the people who support me financially and through prayer. I get excited to be an encourager to others to get involved in what God is doing around them. I'm spoiled by having a life that is so opposite of what the 'world' deems as successful, but what God plans for me. I love being a Christian and I love being a Missionary. Most of all, I love my God.
It's been a productive week. The Compassion Kits for Dubai were completed by noon on Wednesday, ahead of the timetable I had anticipated, thanks to some surprise, hard working volunteers.
Wednesday, I got to attend a lunch meeting with the Hulseys and Brian Sander (FBCR Youth Pastor) regarding a Spring Break mission trip for the Youth to go to serve in Nic with Voice of Hope Ministries. I think we might be having a Youth Crusade during that week. It will be awesome! I enjoyed seeing Manuel and hearing about his school. And the food was pretty good, too!!
Speaking of food, I was blessed to spend a long lunch with Cindy Sigmon today. I had one of my favorite meals (black & blue salad at O'Charleys). We sat and talked for a couple of hours. It was nice to catch up. We're going to work together on a project next week. It will be fun.
I ran some errands and got a few things done at both FBCR buildings. A lot of little things. After I got home, I worked a little bit on some clothes that need altering and did some laundry. It has been a very pleasant, stress-free day.
I found out today that I'm not needed to house/dog-sit this weekend, so I'm going to make the weekend count by getting stuff done here at the house on Friday evening and then probably going to Disaster Relief training on Saturday morning and then a Spanish Christian concert on Saturday evening. That's my plan, anyway...
I delivered a check from FBCR to the counselor and pricipal at Northside Elementary to provide school supplies and other needed items for kids whose families can't provide them. There were some tears shed and many thank yous. Kelly kept saying 'you just don't know how this helps, you just don't know'. Well, I don't know the details, but God knows who needs what, and it was a privilege to be a small tool in HIS plan for those who 'have' to give to those who 'have not'. The principal was still blessed that our Youth wrote a thank you note to the school for letting some of the kids go to do work at the school during the Mission Rogers week in June. The teachers and staff are thankful for the things that FBCR has done to bless them over the past year. They are so glad to have people appreciate them. They work so hard and have less resources than some other schools. I admire all teachers for the work that they do. They need to be thanked in relevant ways. A little love can go a long way...
I have enjoyed spending time with people I run into. Sometimes it's just a quick conversation, sometimes a discussion, sometimes a meal... I love sharing what God is doing in my life and how blessed I feel. I'm grateful to be able to thank the people who support me financially and through prayer. I get excited to be an encourager to others to get involved in what God is doing around them. I'm spoiled by having a life that is so opposite of what the 'world' deems as successful, but what God plans for me. I love being a Christian and I love being a Missionary. Most of all, I love my God.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Monday, August 15, 2010
It's Monday evening and I'm in my chair, with my laptop on my lap (go figure) and watching what passes for TV with Deanna. It's been a busy day and I'm pleasantly tired. I think I'll sleep well tonight. I picked up a couple of new books from the library for my bedtime reading. Hopefully, they are good enough to keep my interest, but not too exciting so I can lay them down and go to sleep.
Last evening, I reviewed the first 7 chapters of my Spanish textbook. I want to finish up that book and move on to some others in the next few weeks. I have a ton of things I want to study and read. I need to discipline my time better to fit it all in. What is Your schedule for me, Lord?
Saturday, I messed around the house and rested a little bit and then had a late lunch/early dinner with Nana Ruth. It was nice to sit and talk and catch up with each other. I also tried on some of the dresses that I made for Nicaragua so that Deanna could pin some alterations. I had made up the pattern off of a dress that I liked. I tend to worry about my clothes being too tight, so I cut the dresses big and they are too roomy. I'll make the alterations and then put some pockets on the front and they will be perfect for wearing in Nic.
Sunday was special with worship services at FBCR on the west side of town and Cuerpo Vivo on the east side. I love being able to worship with friends in both languages. I'm so thankful that God has worked out the timing for each service so that I can attend both. I am blessed.
I had a good meeting with Jaime and Oliver this afternoon regarding the scheduling of events for Cuerpo Vivo through the end of the year. There is some good momentum going in the Hispanic church and we are keeping it rolling. God is very busy in Cuerpo Vivo. It's exciting.
John Caubble called me this morning with a new project for this week. He asked that I shop for and put together 400 more compassion kits for the workers in Dubai. I hit both Walmarts and 1 Walgreens stores and purchased most of what I needed to get. I still have a few hundred more toothbruses and toothpaste to pick up and some flip flops for about 100 women. I cleaned off the shelves at both Walmarts for some of the items I was looking for. I filled 2 shopping carts at both stores. It was fun. I'll try to finish shopping in the morning by hitting all the Dollar stores in town and also going by Walmart to see if they have re-stocked. Then Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday will be spent putting the kits together. I'll be calling in reinforcements and having some fun! John asked that the kits be ready by Thursday. This will keep me out of trouble for a few days anyway...
I guess I should head off to bed for now. I think I'll listen to some Spanish praise music to put me in a quiet mood. I'm trying to immerse my brain in all the Spanish I can get. (gotta get ready to return to Nic!)
Last evening, I reviewed the first 7 chapters of my Spanish textbook. I want to finish up that book and move on to some others in the next few weeks. I have a ton of things I want to study and read. I need to discipline my time better to fit it all in. What is Your schedule for me, Lord?
Saturday, I messed around the house and rested a little bit and then had a late lunch/early dinner with Nana Ruth. It was nice to sit and talk and catch up with each other. I also tried on some of the dresses that I made for Nicaragua so that Deanna could pin some alterations. I had made up the pattern off of a dress that I liked. I tend to worry about my clothes being too tight, so I cut the dresses big and they are too roomy. I'll make the alterations and then put some pockets on the front and they will be perfect for wearing in Nic.
Sunday was special with worship services at FBCR on the west side of town and Cuerpo Vivo on the east side. I love being able to worship with friends in both languages. I'm so thankful that God has worked out the timing for each service so that I can attend both. I am blessed.
I had a good meeting with Jaime and Oliver this afternoon regarding the scheduling of events for Cuerpo Vivo through the end of the year. There is some good momentum going in the Hispanic church and we are keeping it rolling. God is very busy in Cuerpo Vivo. It's exciting.
John Caubble called me this morning with a new project for this week. He asked that I shop for and put together 400 more compassion kits for the workers in Dubai. I hit both Walmarts and 1 Walgreens stores and purchased most of what I needed to get. I still have a few hundred more toothbruses and toothpaste to pick up and some flip flops for about 100 women. I cleaned off the shelves at both Walmarts for some of the items I was looking for. I filled 2 shopping carts at both stores. It was fun. I'll try to finish shopping in the morning by hitting all the Dollar stores in town and also going by Walmart to see if they have re-stocked. Then Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday will be spent putting the kits together. I'll be calling in reinforcements and having some fun! John asked that the kits be ready by Thursday. This will keep me out of trouble for a few days anyway...
I guess I should head off to bed for now. I think I'll listen to some Spanish praise music to put me in a quiet mood. I'm trying to immerse my brain in all the Spanish I can get. (gotta get ready to return to Nic!)
Friday, August 13, 2010
Friday, August 13, 2010
I finally finished posting an entry for each day from my Nic journal. Whew! What a job. I did spell check the posts, but got tired of rereading them, so there are probably a lot grammar errors and such. Oh well, I'll correct them all later. I hope you enjoy reading the daily antics of our teams in Nic.
There were lots of professions of faith, but I didn't get totals. There were many at each Fiesta and Crusade night. Many of the church services produced salvations, too. That is the main focus of our ministry - saved souls. Giving people hope for their daily lives and physical needs is another priority. Some of the families don't even get one meal a day. Many desperately need clothing and other basic items. Everyone needs to hear how much Jesus loves them and that He is their only HOPE for this life and eternal life.
I've been back in Rogers for a week (tomorrow night). The time has went by fast. I got in on Saturday night and was blessed to attend two wonderful church services on Sunday morning. It was the first Sunday service for FBCR at the new facility. It was wonderful to have everyone in one service. I loved the worship. I then high-tailed it across town to the old building to worship with the Cuerpo Vivo congregation in the sanctuary for the first time. What a blessing to come in and just have church. No setup and rearranging and teardown. The kids were in real kid's rooms. The babies got to be in baby beds and not on the floor. We were all so thankful. God is so good to all of His people.
I've spent the week catching up on what's going on with both churches. I had a great meeting with John Caubble on Wednesday, discussing what needs to be planned and implimented at FBCR for local missions, what's going on with Cuerpo Vivo, and what's going on in my life and God's call for me in Nicaragua. It is so exciting to see God working in so many lives. He's such a busy guy and the least we can do is to get on board with Him and follow what His plans are for us.
Monday I got to have a yummy lunch with my friend, Avis. I just never get enough time to spend with this lovely lady. I need to make more of an effort to spend time with her.
I got to have a great visit with Sherry and Manuel Hulsey over lunch on Tuesday. We discussed the opportunities for me to be involved with Voice of Hope going forward. I'll be spending a lot of time there and I'm so grateful. I feel very at peace about God's call on my life for Nic. There is nothing like the feeling of being in the 'sweet spot' of God's will for your life.
Wednesday started with my meeting with John and then we had our monthly Staff prayer meeting. Afterward, 5 of us gals went to eat at Applebee's. It was very tasty.
Last night was the volunteer appreciation dinner for the wonderful people who volunteer at the River of Life Medical Clinic. October will mark the 10th year for the clinic. It's hard to believe that so many years have gone by. God has used that ministry to touch thousands of lives. The volunteers are real soldiers for Christ. I admire and appreciate them much.
Today, I got to have a quick haircut (so Carolyn could fix my chopping escapades in Nic) and then helped stuff bulletins at the church. It was fun to talk with Pauline, Maryann and Mary. I stopped in at the Food Pantry for a quick hello and then ran to Walmart (my first time since I've been back). I had lunch and a nap and then got on the computer to get some work done. I ordered some books from a Spanish website for Cuerpo Vivo classes. I hope I ordered the right thing! :) Deanna and I are just relaxing as usual this evening.
I'm so thankful for all that God allows me to do and experience.
He is worthy of so much more than I can give Him. I'm thankful that He accepts my meager attempts at Praise.
There were lots of professions of faith, but I didn't get totals. There were many at each Fiesta and Crusade night. Many of the church services produced salvations, too. That is the main focus of our ministry - saved souls. Giving people hope for their daily lives and physical needs is another priority. Some of the families don't even get one meal a day. Many desperately need clothing and other basic items. Everyone needs to hear how much Jesus loves them and that He is their only HOPE for this life and eternal life.
I've been back in Rogers for a week (tomorrow night). The time has went by fast. I got in on Saturday night and was blessed to attend two wonderful church services on Sunday morning. It was the first Sunday service for FBCR at the new facility. It was wonderful to have everyone in one service. I loved the worship. I then high-tailed it across town to the old building to worship with the Cuerpo Vivo congregation in the sanctuary for the first time. What a blessing to come in and just have church. No setup and rearranging and teardown. The kids were in real kid's rooms. The babies got to be in baby beds and not on the floor. We were all so thankful. God is so good to all of His people.
I've spent the week catching up on what's going on with both churches. I had a great meeting with John Caubble on Wednesday, discussing what needs to be planned and implimented at FBCR for local missions, what's going on with Cuerpo Vivo, and what's going on in my life and God's call for me in Nicaragua. It is so exciting to see God working in so many lives. He's such a busy guy and the least we can do is to get on board with Him and follow what His plans are for us.
Monday I got to have a yummy lunch with my friend, Avis. I just never get enough time to spend with this lovely lady. I need to make more of an effort to spend time with her.
I got to have a great visit with Sherry and Manuel Hulsey over lunch on Tuesday. We discussed the opportunities for me to be involved with Voice of Hope going forward. I'll be spending a lot of time there and I'm so grateful. I feel very at peace about God's call on my life for Nic. There is nothing like the feeling of being in the 'sweet spot' of God's will for your life.
Wednesday started with my meeting with John and then we had our monthly Staff prayer meeting. Afterward, 5 of us gals went to eat at Applebee's. It was very tasty.
Last night was the volunteer appreciation dinner for the wonderful people who volunteer at the River of Life Medical Clinic. October will mark the 10th year for the clinic. It's hard to believe that so many years have gone by. God has used that ministry to touch thousands of lives. The volunteers are real soldiers for Christ. I admire and appreciate them much.
Today, I got to have a quick haircut (so Carolyn could fix my chopping escapades in Nic) and then helped stuff bulletins at the church. It was fun to talk with Pauline, Maryann and Mary. I stopped in at the Food Pantry for a quick hello and then ran to Walmart (my first time since I've been back). I had lunch and a nap and then got on the computer to get some work done. I ordered some books from a Spanish website for Cuerpo Vivo classes. I hope I ordered the right thing! :) Deanna and I are just relaxing as usual this evening.
I'm so thankful for all that God allows me to do and experience.
He is worthy of so much more than I can give Him. I'm thankful that He accepts my meager attempts at Praise.
Nicaragua August 7, 2010
Saturday Last day in Nic
I woke up at 3am. Mary was softly snoring on and off and I was just laying there awake thinking about lots of things.
I got up about 4:40 and got dressed and ready to leave for the airport at 5am. I hugged Mary and Beth goodbye and they went back to bed. (their flights leave at noon and 1pm)
I walked across the street to the airport and got in line to check in at the Continental desk. It was 5:13am. It took 45 minutes to make it through the line. I met a man who was traveling with his daughter back to California after spending time on the east coast of Nic scuba diving. I got checked in and my suitcase weighed 49 pounds. whew! I went straight over to the immigration check in line, which was very long, but moving pretty well. After the bag xray and search, I ran to a small shop and bought a bottled water so that I could take my morning pills. I only got half of the water down and had to throw it away because they were boarding my row on the plane. One more search of carry-on bags and I'm all set. I get on the plane and settle in.
We took off promptly and had a smooth flight. The breakfast was less than desirable, but the 4 little pieces of fruit was good. I like the OJ, too. I dozed a little bit. We arrived in Houston 30 minutes early. I ran the gauntlet of immigration and customs and bag check-in and such. (I misunderstood the immigration person and thought she was asking me to pay $50 to enter back into the country. funny moment) Then I went strait to Chili's and ate a HUGE salad. Yay for veggies!! I called people to tell them that I was back in the states. My sister was very happy to hear it.
I walked around a lot since I had a 4 hour layover. I had a scoop of icecream, but it wasn't as good as the Eskimo icecream in Nic. :) I sat at some seats along a window and put my feet up on my carry-on bag and caught up writing in my journal. I would LOVE to have a nap right now... But I know I will sleep well tonight and I need to get up early tomorrow to hit both the FBC service and then run across town to the Cuerpo Vivo service.
When I talked to Deanna, she said that the Eatons had dropped the mission-mobile off in the driveway. How precious is that blessing!! She also said that Jet has been to the groomers and smells nice. I had dreamed the other day that I was hugging his nick. I hope he remembers me!
I miss seeing my Nic kids and I will pray for them daily until I can see them again.
I have a wonderful peace about being a part of Voice of Hope ministries and getting to come and go often to be in Nic. I am so thankful.
Time to put on some makeup so I will at least look awake. ha
I've been catching up on my journalling for the days when I just kind of bullet-pointed entries instead of writing paragraphs. There is so much I want to remember, but it's hard. Pics help.
Time to go find a bathroom near my gate and get ready to leave for the flight to Rogers. It dosn't feel like I've been gone 4 weeks. I find that time is relative when serving the Lord. His time is special.
We had to wait on the flight crew before we could board the plane. We left about 15 mintues late, but the plane was only about half full, so I got to spread out in 2 seats. Nice. I met a lady and her son who were travelling from Oregon to Rogers to visit her sister. I gave Isaac a couple of the plastic finger puppets I had in my backpack. He shared one of his silly-bands with me. It was in the shape of a van. It reminded me of the vans I had been riding in for the last 4 weeks in Nic. I gave them my card with info about the church services on it. It was nice meeting them.
Deanna picked me up at the airport and we came straight home. Jet met me at the door. He is so snuggly. It's good to be in my NA (North America) home for awhile. I'm ready to relax. But I'm ready to head back to Nic, too. God is so good to me!
I woke up at 3am. Mary was softly snoring on and off and I was just laying there awake thinking about lots of things.
I got up about 4:40 and got dressed and ready to leave for the airport at 5am. I hugged Mary and Beth goodbye and they went back to bed. (their flights leave at noon and 1pm)
I walked across the street to the airport and got in line to check in at the Continental desk. It was 5:13am. It took 45 minutes to make it through the line. I met a man who was traveling with his daughter back to California after spending time on the east coast of Nic scuba diving. I got checked in and my suitcase weighed 49 pounds. whew! I went straight over to the immigration check in line, which was very long, but moving pretty well. After the bag xray and search, I ran to a small shop and bought a bottled water so that I could take my morning pills. I only got half of the water down and had to throw it away because they were boarding my row on the plane. One more search of carry-on bags and I'm all set. I get on the plane and settle in.
We took off promptly and had a smooth flight. The breakfast was less than desirable, but the 4 little pieces of fruit was good. I like the OJ, too. I dozed a little bit. We arrived in Houston 30 minutes early. I ran the gauntlet of immigration and customs and bag check-in and such. (I misunderstood the immigration person and thought she was asking me to pay $50 to enter back into the country. funny moment) Then I went strait to Chili's and ate a HUGE salad. Yay for veggies!! I called people to tell them that I was back in the states. My sister was very happy to hear it.
I walked around a lot since I had a 4 hour layover. I had a scoop of icecream, but it wasn't as good as the Eskimo icecream in Nic. :) I sat at some seats along a window and put my feet up on my carry-on bag and caught up writing in my journal. I would LOVE to have a nap right now... But I know I will sleep well tonight and I need to get up early tomorrow to hit both the FBC service and then run across town to the Cuerpo Vivo service.
When I talked to Deanna, she said that the Eatons had dropped the mission-mobile off in the driveway. How precious is that blessing!! She also said that Jet has been to the groomers and smells nice. I had dreamed the other day that I was hugging his nick. I hope he remembers me!
I miss seeing my Nic kids and I will pray for them daily until I can see them again.
I have a wonderful peace about being a part of Voice of Hope ministries and getting to come and go often to be in Nic. I am so thankful.
Time to put on some makeup so I will at least look awake. ha
I've been catching up on my journalling for the days when I just kind of bullet-pointed entries instead of writing paragraphs. There is so much I want to remember, but it's hard. Pics help.
Time to go find a bathroom near my gate and get ready to leave for the flight to Rogers. It dosn't feel like I've been gone 4 weeks. I find that time is relative when serving the Lord. His time is special.
We had to wait on the flight crew before we could board the plane. We left about 15 mintues late, but the plane was only about half full, so I got to spread out in 2 seats. Nice. I met a lady and her son who were travelling from Oregon to Rogers to visit her sister. I gave Isaac a couple of the plastic finger puppets I had in my backpack. He shared one of his silly-bands with me. It was in the shape of a van. It reminded me of the vans I had been riding in for the last 4 weeks in Nic. I gave them my card with info about the church services on it. It was nice meeting them.
Deanna picked me up at the airport and we came straight home. Jet met me at the door. He is so snuggly. It's good to be in my NA (North America) home for awhile. I'm ready to relax. But I'm ready to head back to Nic, too. God is so good to me!
Nicaragua August 6, 2010
Friday
Up at 4:30 to plug in the coffeepot for the last time. (sigh) Did I mention that when I get up early like this I have to watch out for the sapos (toads) who come in the house at night? I sure don't want to step on one of them burgers!
The team had breakfast and is preparing to leave. There is nothing to do until after they leave and no where to sit, so I'm laying on my bed. I'm thinking about how much I enjoy this comfy spot. We are running out of water again this morning. I hope we get enough back to do the laundry.
Beth and I are having pancakes after the team leaves. Yum! No oatmeal today!
I'm sad about leaving, but happy about coming back in November. I'm very excited about working with Voice of Hope as much as possible.
The team left for the airport at 7:30am They took a pic of all the kids with Mary, Beth and I. After they were gone, we still didn't have water. Can't do laundry yet.
We worked on various parts of the house... cleaning out fridge and pantry, putting prizes together, packing stuff to stay and stuff to go. There wasn't much more to do, so I took a few little naps and read in between. I worked on an inventory list of what I was leaving at the house.
The water was slow in coming, so Beth got her clothes washed and then Mary washed hers. I gave up and put my dirty stuff in baggies in my suitcase. I'll have to take them home and then bring them back on the next trip. That shouldn't take up too much room.
I finally got a really quick shower and put on my summer dress. It felt good to be clean. We're all a little melancholy about leaving.
Finally, it was time to go at 3pm. We said goodbye to the cooks and cleaning ladies and Saturnino (the guard), and headed into León. It was rainy, so we only made a few stops. One was to a pharmacy to get more parasite pills for us to take after we got home to the states. Next, we stopped at German's house to drop off some ministry things that he will take charge of. While parked in the intersection, Danilo, Beth and Mary all got out of the van to walk to German's porch. Since they left their bags in the van, I stayed in it to keep things safe. While sitting there, I heard the side door slowly open and saw a man standing there. I jumped out of the van and slammed the door shut. Afterward, I found out that the man was actually Danilo's brother, Julio, and he was going to ride with us to Managua. How embarassing for me. He must have thought I was terribly rude!
My stomach was already queasy and I didn't want to make the hour and a half ride on just snacks, so we stopped by On the Run for a hot sandwich for the road. I got a combo and gave the fries to Danilo and the drink to Julio (hopefully, the drink made up for my bad manners). My stomach was much better after getting something hot in it.
We stopped in La Paz Centro to meet the Speigles to say goodbye and to get some keys that needed to go back to Rogers. It was a quick stop and we were on our way again. Danilo was trying to get to Managua to take care of some kind of business before 5pm. He was driving a little too fast and crazy for Mary's taste. It is always a rollercoaster ride on the roads with all the slow moving vehicles and animals. Danilo didn't make it in time for his errand, but we made it to the hotel just fine.
We checked into the hotel and ended up with a suite with an extra bed instead of a triple room or 2 doubles. It was really nice (especially by Nic standards). We turned on the a/c and went for dinner in the restaurant. I had lemon chicken, mashed potatoes and steamed veggies. Yummy.
A quick shower and I'm ready for bed. Mary and I are sharing a kingsize bed. It's pretty comfy and I know I will sleep well tonight. I'm tired.
I'm sad to be leaving Nic in the morning, but it feels good to be part of the team and know that I'll return in November.
I'm so thankful to God for allowing me this privilege of serving here. I'm counting many blessings tonight.
Up at 4:30 to plug in the coffeepot for the last time. (sigh) Did I mention that when I get up early like this I have to watch out for the sapos (toads) who come in the house at night? I sure don't want to step on one of them burgers!
The team had breakfast and is preparing to leave. There is nothing to do until after they leave and no where to sit, so I'm laying on my bed. I'm thinking about how much I enjoy this comfy spot. We are running out of water again this morning. I hope we get enough back to do the laundry.
Beth and I are having pancakes after the team leaves. Yum! No oatmeal today!
I'm sad about leaving, but happy about coming back in November. I'm very excited about working with Voice of Hope as much as possible.
The team left for the airport at 7:30am They took a pic of all the kids with Mary, Beth and I. After they were gone, we still didn't have water. Can't do laundry yet.
We worked on various parts of the house... cleaning out fridge and pantry, putting prizes together, packing stuff to stay and stuff to go. There wasn't much more to do, so I took a few little naps and read in between. I worked on an inventory list of what I was leaving at the house.
The water was slow in coming, so Beth got her clothes washed and then Mary washed hers. I gave up and put my dirty stuff in baggies in my suitcase. I'll have to take them home and then bring them back on the next trip. That shouldn't take up too much room.
I finally got a really quick shower and put on my summer dress. It felt good to be clean. We're all a little melancholy about leaving.
Finally, it was time to go at 3pm. We said goodbye to the cooks and cleaning ladies and Saturnino (the guard), and headed into León. It was rainy, so we only made a few stops. One was to a pharmacy to get more parasite pills for us to take after we got home to the states. Next, we stopped at German's house to drop off some ministry things that he will take charge of. While parked in the intersection, Danilo, Beth and Mary all got out of the van to walk to German's porch. Since they left their bags in the van, I stayed in it to keep things safe. While sitting there, I heard the side door slowly open and saw a man standing there. I jumped out of the van and slammed the door shut. Afterward, I found out that the man was actually Danilo's brother, Julio, and he was going to ride with us to Managua. How embarassing for me. He must have thought I was terribly rude!
My stomach was already queasy and I didn't want to make the hour and a half ride on just snacks, so we stopped by On the Run for a hot sandwich for the road. I got a combo and gave the fries to Danilo and the drink to Julio (hopefully, the drink made up for my bad manners). My stomach was much better after getting something hot in it.
We stopped in La Paz Centro to meet the Speigles to say goodbye and to get some keys that needed to go back to Rogers. It was a quick stop and we were on our way again. Danilo was trying to get to Managua to take care of some kind of business before 5pm. He was driving a little too fast and crazy for Mary's taste. It is always a rollercoaster ride on the roads with all the slow moving vehicles and animals. Danilo didn't make it in time for his errand, but we made it to the hotel just fine.
We checked into the hotel and ended up with a suite with an extra bed instead of a triple room or 2 doubles. It was really nice (especially by Nic standards). We turned on the a/c and went for dinner in the restaurant. I had lemon chicken, mashed potatoes and steamed veggies. Yummy.
A quick shower and I'm ready for bed. Mary and I are sharing a kingsize bed. It's pretty comfy and I know I will sleep well tonight. I'm tired.
I'm sad to be leaving Nic in the morning, but it feels good to be part of the team and know that I'll return in November.
I'm so thankful to God for allowing me this privilege of serving here. I'm counting many blessings tonight.
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