Great Day at VBS

Last night I kept Logan while Steve was at Jacob's Well with Issac and Holli was working. She doing well after her contraction scare on Tuesday. We had 76 kids at VBS today and I had 6 in 4th grade and was so proud of them. They all learned John 3:16 my first bible verse I learned. We had to rap to get it but how awesome! Tomorrow we will play in the water so this should be a good time! I have been taking the neighborhood boys, Kele and Camden home. Life is good when serving God!

I Love VBS

So today was the start of VBS at First Presbyterian and there were 72 kids! I thought that was great even thou the chaos was incredible. I think they had a great time and I am exhausted, can't wait till Logan gets big enough to go. I am leading 4th grade with Carolann Farley and we had a great time and taught 6 kids about Faith-Romans 10:17.

On another note, Holli went into preterm labor and was having a bad allergy attack so they kept her just to watch her. They gave her Benadryl and Ibuprofen and her labor has stopped. She is home resting so I am praying that she can take it easy and slow down.

Fun Day with Holli and Logan

Today Holli and I took Logan out early to garage sales. All was not lost as I got a potty chair for Nana's house. Since he now tells you when he's wet it may not be long. What a joy that would be if he were potty trained before the new baby comes in October! They went home and got a nap and I met them and Steve at the movies to see Cars 2. Logan is crazy in love with Cars right now and we had a great time. He did really well at the movie with his snacks of popcorn and M & M's. My lawn mower has some issues right now and so I decided against the yard mowing since it is so hot out.

God's Beauty

I took this of the Hydrangea that the Taylor's got me for Mother's Day. It's just a beautiful reminder to me of how much nature is a gift from God!

Easter Carnival

Even with the weather a bit overcast, that didn't stop Abby and Holli from taking the kids out to celebrate Easter around El Dorado. In the morning they went to the hospital egg hunt and then I met them at the Presbyterian Church for the Easter Carnival. Logan had just woke up and Payton and Grayson were asleep when they arrived. We colored coloring pages, crafted crosses and bookmarks, hunted eggs, threw bean bags at the animals in Noah's Ark and found all the wonderful bubble blowing wands. Logan doesn't quite have the keep the wand flat in the bubble solution but he liked trying all the different wands. The kids had a great time but Nana had the best time. Logan is going to church with me in the morning!

Update

Since our team returned to the states, Jan has purchased a house 3 blocks from her current house to begin an orphanage. 11 children from St Marc will be residing there. One of the children has tested positive for HIV and has started on meds. Stephanie will be headed back there to help the team learn how to provide for this special child. Christopher's Hope is such a blessing to these children.
On this Easter weekend, we are so blessed to have Jesus's saving grace and love. What a great God we serve to give his only Son to die on the cross for us so we can have peace and joy! Victory in the cross that Jesus bore.

Playing in the Dirt

So yesterday Diana and I went to the ranch and pulled on the tiller to turn over some dirt. Planted some fabulous onion plants that Wayne had started. The four different varites should be yummy! It was so beautiful out in the pasture and the ranch is so neat! I'm waiting to see the deer and all the snakes that will be coming out soon. I got to sit on the big John Deere and imagine myself as a country girl. Later Ethi had a cookout and the storm blew in which was beautiful colorful. The grass fire was beautiful from a distance!

Sarah and the Children of the Mountain Orphange

All the children of Haiti moved my heart. Precious gifts from God. Sarah the little one I am holding, stole my heart and we colored her picture with her brother Eziekel. The artwork of the children's feet on the wall behind us was created by a team that came in before us.

This is what a typical orphange in Haiti looks like. It had seperate rooms for the boys and girls and they shared beds. They cook outside over an open fire of sticks and eat standing at the long tables we were coloring at. There were no chairs. They did have clothing and worn shoes. They did have a water system so they didn't hve to carry water. Most children have never taken a shower.

In the group picture, that is Jiffy our Translator, who was singing with the children.

We were able to bless them with suckers, jump ropes,bubbles, frisbees, flip flops along with coloring books, crayons and some oatmeal. Stephanie was having a great time with Sarah and the bubbles. To be the hands and feet of God and the love He has for us will forever be an experience that will bless me.

Precious Logan

Holli was at work and Steve asked if I could keep Logan for a few hours! We had such a good time and he is fascinated with my sewing machine and all the things in my craft room. Today the button jar caught his attention. It was fun to see him look at the different sizes and colors. He had a good time just spooning them into the jar. We did make a necklace with the ones that were his favorite such as a duck, large tan and blue button. He even put a couple of red beads that were in the mix. He loves playing the piano. How precious are our children and grandchildren. We didn't go outside as he had a hacky cough. Holli took him to the doctor but it just needs to run it's course. Good times just reading and playing. It was great to see Christopher this week and he came with Steve to pick Logan up. Christopher is getting so tall and will start High School next year. He will be 14 this year.

I'm looking forward to the new babies to come in our family and hope that these babies will be raised in the church so they know God.

Working for God

Thanks for all the many prayers, support and love you have given me for my minstry in Haiti and with Christopher's Hope Ministry. The team arrived home on Friday night around 9:30pm in Wichita and there at the airport to pick me up were Mom and Dad and Deanna and Les. I had forgotten only for a moment how cold it was here and I have a cold or something now. Of course I always get something when I fly as the togetherness on a plane lends that.

What a great experience to serve God with 9 other people on the team. Kirk Day is an awesome team leader and made sure that we were safe and taken care of the whole time. He has a passion to serve the Lord with Jan in Haiti and did a marvelous job. I especially praised his driving abilities in Haiti. Mike and Jane Dauwer were from Oxford Kansas and were the senior members on the team. You wouldn't have known as they were serving as hard and long as the other members. Other members of the team were Barbara Day, who is Kirk's Mom and a co worker at Butler. Her daughter Angie and husband Dr. Marcus went and they own Art of Life Chiropratic in El Dorado. Stephanie McCreary was from the Augusta area but lives now in San Diego, California. Jodi Bailey is from El Dorado and she and Stephanie are friends and also nurses. It was such a blessing to get to know these brothers and sisters in Christ and see the talents each one gave. Shelby Humig also traveled with us from El Dorado.

When we didn't arrive the first day and had to stay in Miami because our plane had mechanical problems in Dallas, I was so disappointed but at the same time I knew God had a plan for us. We flew American Airlines going and coming back and they placed us in a hotel near the airport and we had a nice meal in the Doubletree Hotel.

We arrived at the Port Au Prince Airport and what an experience. There were so many baggage handlers that wanted to "help" us get our 20 tubs and luggage to the vehicles. They had made some improvements to the outside pavement so it wasn't as hard to push as I had anticipated.

Our translators for the trip were Jiffy, Nahomie, Victor and Jay. They are Haitian and really worked hard to help us understand and be understood. Shelby, who is Jan Thompson's daughter, traveled from Kansas with the group and also translated for us. After living in Haiti she had the insight and knew some of the people we were ministering to. She is expecting Jan's first grandchild and this trip was really rough on her especially in the mornings.

We started for Gonaives which is a 3 hour trip from Port Au Prince. The city of Port Au Prince was alive with traffic both in vehicles and people on the street. People everywhere selling everything from oil to food. There were goats in the State Agriculture yard. I was sadden to see all the tent cities and mass burial grave from the victims of the earthquake. In a lot of places it is just like you see on TV. They use whatever they can find to build "shelter." Some used blue tarps, some sheet metal and others wood. There were some that used gray tarps with UNAID stamped on them. The road was very rough most of the way to St. Marc where we stopped for lunch at a place that is equivlaent to our McDonalds. It was up the stairs above a store. There were cakes and pastries that were in baker cases. I ordered a cheeseburger and fries and Sprite. They acutally had ice for the drinks which is such a luxury in Haiti. While we were there, young people arrived after school to "hang out." Of course these young people have much more than the children we would soon see. They were dressed very nice and clean and one even brought his laptop. We sat where we could see the van with our luggage on it so at this point I knew we were in a danger area. There was a lady selling rice and beans sauce. A big helping of the rice with sauce would cost about $2.00 US money. After eating we went down to the store and looked around. There were many American items such as cereal, Valentine items and even a big TV. We bought some Haitian chips to take to the beach for our lunch the next day. While waiting for the team to gather we stood outside taking in the sights of the streets and being yelled at and waving back, I realized that you can't be "friendly" as we would at home. Culture shock had set in. We traveled on to Gonaives and I was so overwhelmed with the way they "drive" in Haiti. Since my degree is in organizational leadership, the whole trip I was trying to put this chaos into some form of normalcy but gave up the second day there. They have no road rules so the motorcycles, big trucks and tap taps were all moving and honking at the same time in many directions. Kirk was an excellent driver. The only time I was afraid was at checkpoint outside the headquarters of the police station when someone was waving us down to stop and he asked Jiffy if we should. From the back seat driving I was doing, I yelled NO! It was so different. From that point on, I just looked out the side windows of the van instead of the front window. After getting to Jan's house, I was tired and ready for a break of processing all that I had seen. We unloaded all our stuff and the food that was in the tubs still was frozen so that was good news. I helped unloaded the frozen and other food in the kitchen before settling into the room where I stayed with Jodi and Stephanie. It was the Faith Room and welcomed us with quilts on the beds which made me feel right at home. This area wasn't attached to the house it was a seperate area in the back of the house. It had a cubby with shelves where we could store our personal items and 2 fans. The concrete floor was painted.

God blessed me to meet some children of His in a foreign country. They are beautiful people. The little girl I am holding is Sarah and her brother beside me is Eziekel. They were children living at the orphanage in the mountains. The road was very hard and rough to travel. For those of you who live in El Dorado and have ever experienced Towanda Street, I will never complain again. Some of the boys were waiting to greet us and when I stepped out of the van, I was so excited to see them that I hardly noticed the swarm of bees. We quickly went in and were introduced to the children. They sang for us and then we colored with them and blessed them with shoes, bubbles and jumpropes. Outside the neighborhood boys were playing frisbie with Kirk, Jake and Jane.

I will post more later when I get my strength back, I'm still trying to recover from the trip home and my cold. I really enjoyed the warm weather there!

New Faces

Well I am so excited! Last night the team had a meeting and we learned more about traveling and tips to help. We will start cooking and packing on the 19th. I'm making some more cookies so Angie can shop. Jane and Mike from Oxford are joining us and I met Shelby's husband last night. I am going to translate a bible verse so we can distribute boots from the prison that are waiting for us! I bought a web cam so I could Skype with AJ and Kristin before I leave.

We could still use Ziplock sandwich bags as we will gather our mission items in the morning before we go out and carry them in the bags. Money is also being collected by the First Christian Church and should be marked Haiti Trip. We should have 14 tubs that we can fill! God is love! Wow, what a great blessing to have this opportunity. Please continue to pray for the team as we go in and travel. We leave early on February 24.

Hope in the Lord

In Zephaniah what was to come is the land is of Nineveh is under great destruction and wiped out. Jerusalem was also rebellious and worshipped all other forms of idols.

The message today is even when people stray from the Lord, there will be a rebuilding and that hope comes from Lord always.

This week the mission team has added 3 new members to the team going to Haiti. Shelby who is Jan's daughter and 2 of Jan's good friends from Oxford,Kansas. We will start preparing for the packings and meals that we will be taking in. My excitement is building and the things I will see and the good I can do only strengthens my love for the Lord.

The work here in our community is also needed and I can't wait to return. The Homeless Initiative is close to securing a site for the house and that is so wonderful. Thanks be to God for those who will have a place to call home.

Please pray without ceasing for my good friend Wayne, whose been in bed all weekend. Also please continue to keep the mission team in your prayers.

For those celebrating football today, GO STEELERS, I like the color green and it's in their logo! Mark ,my brother is having a party at his house! Should be a great time!

God Hears His People

In Zephaniah 2:8-11, two tribes were at war and people were taunting each other and making threats against each other. God heard them and he told the people that I hear you and I will settle this and wipe you out but leave some people to inherit the kingdom of God. The people I choose will worship Him while the others will not be left.

This is what God wants for us to hear him and turn away from the worldly idols and greed and seek Him. He will hear us and restore our souls. Do not seek evil for evil as it only causes you to sin. Instead love the Lord your God and give Him your heart!

Bonding Together

In Zephaniah 5:6-7, even though the people in weren't following God, it says, "Woe to you who live by the sea, O Kerethite people; the word of the Lord is against you, O Canaan, land of the Philistines. "I will destroy you, and none will be left." The land by the sea, where Kerethites dwell, will be a place for shepherds and sheep pens.

What can be a better thing than to have shepherds in the land watching over their flocks. God restores all and sends friends to come along side to help. God loves for us to love one another! Thanks be to God for His great love and allowing Jesus to take away the sins of the world.

Seeking the Lord Everyday

In Zephaniah 2:1-3, it says, "Gather together, gather together, O shameful nation, before the appointed time arrives and that day sweeps on like chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord comes upon you, before the day of the Lord's wrath comes upon you. Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, you who do what He commands. Seek righteous, seek humility; perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the Lord's anger."

In thinking about this verse, it is truly a blessing to me to know that all I have to do is seek Him and be humble and He will guide my path.

I am reminded of a time in my life when I worked at the Cerebral Palsy Ranch and how rewarding it was. I love serving others (this was right before I told my Mom that I wanted to be a nun.) It was such a blessing for me to be able to put someone in a wheel chair or walk with them along side a horse. That's what God does for us everyday! He walks along side of us and helps us be compassionate for those that need compassion or help along the way, to encourage and love unconditionally.

Pray without ceasing that my service to others in Haiti will be for the glory of God!

And for those of you who need some humor in your lives , you'll be happy to know that I didn't burn the house down, I just replaced the workout music with the smoke alarm. Of course, God made me short so I wouldn't have as far to bend down to minister to children and then He made step stools so I wouldn't have to use a folding chair! You should have seen me trying to reach it on the ceiling. I was just sure the neighbors would be over or a firemen show up on my porch. I know it works so praise God for a broiler in the oven, and a battery, the steak was excellent!

Zephaniah

Zephaniah is a powerful book in the Old Testament. The first two books were written to help the people of Judah turn from their complacent actions. I know God has a plan for everyone and just like the good things he has in store for our lives, sometimes there are trials that we face.

In Zephaniah 1:18, it says, "Neither their silver nor their gold will be able to save them on the day of the Lord's wrath. In the fire of His jealousy the whole world will be consumed for He will make a sudden end of all who live in the earth."

If you can follow God through the good and bad times then hope comes from loving Him and rejoicing with Him in the good times. So often people are only concerned about money in this world. Money can't buy happiness or give you the love the Lord can give. If you ask Him in your heart, He will answer you and your life can be changed. The Haitian people need to know the trials we face and I hope to share my divorce experience along with the Good News!

Another Day from God

Well today was a great day, everyday the Lord gives us is another day to make a difference.
I am so excited that Deanna is going to sing with me and we are going to sing about a house that mercy built with Debbie playing. This house is the one built for Jan Thompson in Gonaives which makes it so special.

The meeting tonight for Haiti planning was cancelled. I am so excited about serving the Lord and just can't wait. The Baptist Church is an amazing body of believers. I marvel in the people that serve and give so much.

So I have been in prayer constantly about my life and everything connected to the trip and in Mark 11:24-25 Jesus said, "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins." I ask for lots of things for other people but sometimes all God wants is to hear what is on our heart. This power of prayer is so important and I know when I am out of the states, there will be many people that will be praying for me. What an awesome God we serve who knows our every need. Have faith in God and He will sustain you and give you a life with Him.

Tools for Living and Life

In Roman 12:14, Pauls says, "Bless those that persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited."

So I bought my first tools yesterday. The screwdriver is cool and will come in very handy. I'm headed to Kate's next week and so the tape will come in handy. Last week I had to fix the bathtub knobs. I'm getting pretty handy!

If it's one thing I've learned in the last 6 months, it's to embrace those who need a help up. I'm great at asking for help and I'm sure when I get back from Haiti, I will feel even more humble. I have a giving heart! All the possessions in the world and the toys we have 0n earth won't compare to the Kingdom of God. I've cleaned out my stamps to give away and clothes. I've already accepted two speaking engagements, the Life Enrichment members probably won't want to travel to Haiti on vacation. They are also eager to learn about other countries and are so supportive. Uncle Howard and Aunt Barb have asked me to speak to their Class of 1945 group and I will be honored. They to have always been so supportive of me and I love spending time with them. I like to think that I got some of my craftiness from watching Aunt Barb. They are also humble in their giving, and my what hosts they are! Aunt Barb is artistic and crafty and Uncle Howard is a thinker and planner, but he sure knows how to have fun. When I get back I can't wait to talk about what the Lord is teaching me through His love.

I am so blessed to update my thermometer. The generous hearts of others to send me out in the name of the Lord are so wonderful. Thanks to Les and Deanna for the meat and to all those that I am still finding put that have contributed. Thanks also for the KitchenAid Mixer for making the sugar cookie dough, it is a great machine!

Please be in prayer for the the family of the train accident that killed a mother and daughter, this family will need the Lord to keep His hand of comfort around them and strength to go on. Every time I hear emergency sirens, which is quite often where I live, I say a little prayer that God will be with those who help the patients and their families and keep them safe.

I am a Child of God

In John 1:12 it says, "But as many as received Him to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name."

This is such a beautiful verse and I will share it with the children of Haiti. I am so blessed to have this opportunity and to be His child! God is bigger than anyone knows and I love praying and lifting my concerns to Him, and praying for those who are mourning loved ones and who are sick. Comfort and strength in the Lord is their only hope!

I have joined the First Baptist Church Divorce Group on Tuesday and I am grateful that there will be others in this group to share their concerns and for me to start the next step in healing.

My back is feeling so much better and sugar cookies are yummy. My new clothes from Goodwill are fitting great and exercise is so good! What a beautiful day the Lord has made!

Truth in a World of Need

John is one of my favorite books of the Bible and John 3:21, Jesus says, "But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God."

Thank the Lord for Fridays! He knew we needed to rest and spend time with him! I decided to show you a picture of my new hair do. I bought this dress because I love orange and green together and I need to buy some clothes.

At Megan's stamp camp last night, I took pictures, they were such good sports. Such neat cards that Megan had for us. I'm so glad Brenda has become a demonstrator. I didn't cut anyone's head off so that was good! I love making and sending cards, it just gives the personal touch to a prayerful heart.

Continue to keep the team to Haiti and me in your prayers. It's always been my dream to go and serve and I am really getting excited. I am always so thankful to those who want to help, God loves a cheerful giver! Someday Holli and I will serve together, but, until then I will be leading the way and sitting the example of a pure heart in love with the Lord!

Do it All for the Lord

In Colossians 3:17 Paul said, "And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."





So many times we focus on what we can't do instead of what we can do. Whatever you do, have a grateful heart and sing his praises! Be glad He has called you as one of his own. I am so thankful to have Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I have a personal relationship with him and my heart is full! I'm ready to face whatever He had for me to learn!

Friends, Coffee and the Lord

So I've been looking waking up reading the Bible and then putting the Folgers on in the morning. It is better tasting than the cheap brand and adding flavored cream to it is the best.

We had a great time at card making last night and I was thrilled to have Sam, Alivia and Emily join us. All the Gardiner girls were there and just precious! They had a good time and lets face it, it was better than homework. The lemon bars were a success and the girls gave me a Ott-Lite floor lamp with a big extension arm to help with the light. I'm not sure I needed it but it will help and went great in my new craft room.

Isaiah 26:2 God said, "Open the gates that the righteous nation may enter, the nation that keeps faith." Keep your faith in God. Please also pray for our nation and the leaders to make good decisions and to bring our military boys home like Luke. I also pray that AJ won't have to deploy.

Psalm 25

I'm so blessed to have so many friends, but most importantly, my best friend God who loves me! Psalm 25:1-2 says To You, O Lord I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in You; Let me not be ashamed ; Let not my enemies triumph over me.

I am so thankful to have enough to share with others. It is so wonderful to have a Father, Healer, Friend who is enough for me. The heavenly Father who has more strength when I don't have enough.

I got the Kari Jobe CD yesterday and what a blessing. She loves the Lord with all her heart and sings her songs for him. She is based in Texas. I think my favorite song is Beautiful. You can go to her website and listen. I'm sure her songs will lift you up!

I hurt my back using a stretchy band, so I am struggling, but physical therapy should help it!

This is my new card and it was sent to Glenda who made me a beautiful scarf. Her husband died last year and her walk through grief has been amazing. That's how we get through our trials, with friends that understand.

Surrond by Love and Missions

Today I spoke at the Degraff Church and what an amazing congregation of believers. The Holy Spirit is moving in this Church. Pam and Terry Lowmaster won a beautiful picture from Humana and dedicated it to the Church. Pam prepared a package meal from Humana so everyone could taste it. I got to help Deanna dish it up and what joy to know that the packet feeds 6 adults that wouldn't have had anything to eat. Pastor Larry Womacks blessed the meat that Deanna and Les donated from the beef they raise with Grandpa Leonard. Pator Larry Womacks also asked for those who could come up and lay hands on me and bless me on my journey. There was a peace that surround us and the Spirit was in this beautiful church. They also donated funds to help bless the people of Haiti.

It was really neat to meet Jeanntte and Richard McGrath who are riding across the U.S. to raise awareness and support for Hearts Up Ranch. The Ranch provides a safe and encouraging environment using animals, ranch activities, adventure, and the love of Christ to promote emotional healing.

In 2 Timothy 1:12, it says, For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that day.

I am committed everyday to be his servant and show His love to others.

Seeking God not Lemon Bars

Through the choices I have made recently, I have taken the knowledge that I have been remade in Christ and He is the comfort that I seek. He is the hope where I gain my strength.

So I went into my yellow kitchen of yellow to cook today and the picture above is Lemon Bars. I wasn't sure what to think but they actually are pretty tasty. Now if I was graded on plating abilities, I don't think I would win any contests but I bet Holli, Steve and Logan will try them for lunch tomorrow.

I will be speaking at the blessing of the meat tomorrow at the Degraff Church. I can't wait to tell them about what the team will be doing in Haiti.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:23 it says, May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.

He has called me for a time such as this and I praise him in everything I do. The more I seek him the more I find Christ!

It's Friday

Friday, the day to celebrate the weekend starting! I got up early and started the day with the Lord. I felt sore after the workout yesterday and it felt good to stretch and clean the house. I really am enjoying my little two bedroom house with hard wood floors which are beautiful. The colors are cute and even though I have never had a K-State purple bedroom, it is very clean and adequate for myself. I have setup the extra room as my craft room.

In Matthew 5:11, Jesus said, "Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say ll kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake." This is what I am prepared for when I get to Haiti because they don't know me. It must feel that way for the International Students that come to study in the U.S. I am choosing to get out of comfort zone and go with God to the unknown where he will be with me. The team will be there too, but I am strong and will be listening close to what Jesus is saying to me.

Great lunch with Teresa at Beijing! I love their new look and they service is excellent. Serving others with a grateful heart, God's highest calling!

Jeremiah

In Jeremiah 1:17, Jesus says, "Get yourself ready! Stand up and say to them whatever I command you. Do not be terrified by them, or I will terrify you before them."

I am not terrified of going to Haiti because I know God has called me for this time and has given me his words to speak about the salvation I have in Him. I don't think anything will happen and know that instead of worry you should be in prayer always.

Children of God

Today the funeral for Fern Fagg was beautiful. She was a gracious, giving lady who became Holli, AJ and Kati's faithful babysitter when they were growing up. She faithfully served the members of the First United Methodist Church and other families in town. She lived 2 doors down on Shelden Street from us and would walk up and sit whenever we needed her.

The song Children of God by Third Day talks about how we are His children and we've been redeemed by his blood through the His grace and mercy. What a wonderful promise we have in our Father.

In Matthew 18:5, Jesus said "And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me."

Unrest

Today the news is "Baby Doc" a former ruler is back in Haiti after 25 years. While they arrested him the court system might not be strong enough to try him. Kirk Day, the team leader is under the weather and Angie led the meeting. We met with Jan last night to get more information about the trip and set a schedule. Sounds like we will be busy and I can't wait to get started.


I am looking forward to meeting the 12 orphans and know my heart will be melted. Our focus is going to be taking travel size hygiene items in for the adults and the items I listed earlier. Bracelets in any color like the ones you can order in bulk are great too! The items need to be brought to the First Baptist Church or you can contact me for pickup. I will be helping take in frozen sugar cookie dough to share with the Haitian families at night that we will meet and share dinner with.


Thanks to Dick Albright for providing 20 necklaces with three crosses wood burned on them, they are beautiful. I appreciate everything that has been given and rejoice with the Lord that he has called me at a time such as this.

In Mark 10:17-19 Jesus speaks to the young rich man. The man called Him "Good Teacher." Jesus said in verse 18, "Why do you call me good? No one is good except for God alone."

God is so great and I am so glad to have a Heavenly Father.

The Cost of Following Him

In Matthew 8:20, Jesus was teaching about what it takes to follow him. One of the disciples told him he would follow him wherever he would go. Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." I am striving to be like Christ and build relationships here on earth that will further his Kingdom. So many have come along side of me and support me in my walk even though they are afraid that I will decide to follow the Lord into full time ministry. These are the faithful that know a life without the Lord is no life at all. We should give all we have to figure out how to walk and not judge others in a world that is cold and seems to forget the struggling.

My prayer today is that we can all follow him more closely and do his will. The first step I am taking is to attend the First Baptist Church and learn as much as I can. Barbara Day will be teaching a Bible study on Ruth and this will be a great time to study.

I can't continue to let others stumble because of me so this positive step is something that I need to do to get through the trials in my life. God provides and gives us what we want not what we need.

Getting Excited

Thanks to all who have helped me in the past get to where I am today. The Lord is truly blessing me! The additional funding received will go towards paying the shipping for the items we will be taking in. Today was a day off from my job at Butler Community College, so I went to work full time serving others, had lunch with Amy and took a walk and did some sit ups. Sunday I will speak at the DeGraff Church and they are planning a blessing of the meat that has been provided. Pastor Larry Womacks, Pam Lowmaster, Deanna and I have been planning this and I can't wait to share with them.



I will know more about the items that we can take tomorrow but we are planning on taking instant oatmeal, Hot Wheels or Matchbox cars, bubbles, jump ropes and stickers. We will also be taking clothes for the orphans. Jodi and Stephanie are putting together first aid kits.

If you know me, I'm not a flip flop person, I have no idea how some people can wear them year round. I will be taking a pair of sandals and extra pair of tennis shoes. I still need to get some tops, mosquito net, work gloves, space saver bags, batteries and Skin so Soft from Avon as they say it helps with the mosquitos and is a non aerosol. Ashley Burns who was previously there came up with a Lemongrass remedy that they took in to the jail, such a great idea. I should then have everything I need. We will pack our items in the space saver bags so we can get more and have more room for the mission items.

Some of you are really worrying about this trip and I hope that prayer gets you through. I am going with the Lord and he provides, he always has in my life!

Jan and Pastor Jean

It was great to see Jan and Pastor Jean and hear more about the Christopher's Hope Ministry. The Kids' Club has grown so much they had to bring in additional benches to accommodate the kids that come. The Men and Women's ministry in the jail is harder to minister because the guards are not Christians themselves and to hear the frustration and the perseverance in Jan's stories was so beautiful and showed the Lord is indeed working in the lives of many there. The water ministry and the sacrifices so many have made is incredible and I can't wait to share my testimony to let them know what a great God I serve.

I long to serve him more each day and be a beacon to those in need. I love Philippians 4:13, I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. The words are set to music and I hope that I can have a chance to sing it with the people of Gonaives. I am working on preparing the song by Point of Grace, The House that Mercy Built to offer when I present the pictures and experiences from the trip. So many good songs! I listen to K-Love which is a positive Christian station at 99.1 FM. I have listened to this station for the last 4 years and it great.

I am in prayer about what the Lord has in store for me. I know he provides and setting up my new house and learning about thermostats, roller shades, car batteries, budgets and everyday things you take for granted has been challenging. I'm looking forward to learning more about filing your taxes.

Deanna and Les are coming for lunch and they have been such a blessing to me. Last night Savanna my niece went to the Winter Formal Dance with her boyfriend Logan. Those were such special times when my kids would all meet with their friends and go together. The crazy things that the boys did and the beautiful girls with their hair and nails. The cat hair clinging to the black outfits was always part of the event and using the lent roller. What a hoot!

Please keep Luke Bryan in your prayers. He hung with A.J. and is now serving in Kuwait. A.J.'s unit as it stands now, will deploy in October so please pray for all the military families.

The Physical Vessel

It is so important to keep fit and eat right. I started training today so I can climb the mountain near Gonaives. This mountain has the best view at the top and I'm told it is a beautiful site to see. I also decided to start drinking something other than water and the G2 packets aren't too bad tasting. You add them to your water bottle and they make a tasty drink. I'm going to take those in for a change other than water. They do have soda but I'm not a real soda fan so that isn't a temptation. I know I will sweat so water will save me. Granola bars have also become a staple as I will take those for a snack.



Forty more days and then I will see the beauty of God's people in a world of need. The Bible I purchased is a NKLV and has the words of Jesus in red. I've been studying with it.



Pray continually for those in need of hearing the word of God. Luke 14:27 "And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple." I will come back with the team but I know my heart will be in Haiti waiting for the next time to return.

Cards for Those in Need

I love to make cards and send them on to encourage those having trials in life. This is a new one that I made. Psalm 96:4

In preparing for the trip, I bought an ipod so I can drown out the sounds at night and sleep in Haiti. I have been loading songs and technology is so neat. Kari Jobe is one of my favorite singers and her songs just talk to me.

Jan Thompson and Pastor Jean will be in conversation with the community on Saturday at 6:00pm in the First Baptist Church Sanctuary. I am looking forward to the meeting and hope to learn much more by listening. They will head back before we arrive and prepare for our mission. Pray without ceasing!

Logan and Cars

I bought my first car battery. Those people at Wal-Mart make it so easy. I won't have to worry about my car not starting. I picked Logan up from daycare in Augusta and he was so excited when he saw me. When I walk into Holli's I usually say "Nana's here!" I walked into daycare and his little face just lit up when I said that. We came home and I had bought him a toy airplane with little people. The lights work and it sings when you push the pilot down. We learned about suitcases, it came with one. We also tried my sunglasses on that I'm taking to Haiti. I wanted him to know who he was looking at in the pictures when I get back. He had Cheetos and yogurt covered pretzels not to mention his new favorite thing-Heath bars. The best part was when we played the piano. This is going to be something he and Nana do! Thank God for little ones who are so precious! Of course his favorite song was Elmo Ducks so I have had to learn this. He is so fascinated by the computer. I love taking him to Church and singing Jesus Love Me!

New Strength in the Lord

I have been in prayer about the upcoming trip and was reading Isaiah 41:10 which says- Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

God is such a great God and shares in our joy and times of trials.  I know that through him all things are made new and what a great assurance we have in him and the word of God. 

Please pray for all those who minister to those in need.  They are sometimes overlooked and often times under prayed for.  These are the daily feet of Jesus in our midst who take on cares and concerns of others, sometimes forgetting about their health and needs.

With this being the one year date of the devastating earthquake, so many are still in need.  I'm so glad I will be spreading the good news of salvation to a world in need of God.

Over and Above, God Supplies

Thanks to Sara and Nancy for all their work in keeping me updated on the funds that have come in for the trip.  To date the total donated is $1176.00.  The total expenses are $1082.93.  This amount was less than anticipated due to the cheaper air tickets.  This is more than I will need and I thank God for his blessings and the sacrifices some made to help spread the word of God.  The remainder will be taken as a love offering to the church at Gonaives. 

Thanks to Kirk Day for his purchase of the tickets on the phone for over an hour trying to book them. 
I have been in prayer about this trip and know that God delivers people from their challenges!  I am excited to be able to share this with the people of Haiti.  God loves them and has not forgotten them.

Thanks also to all who have lifted me up and my family in this new start in my life after making the decision to leave my marriage.

Plans for the Trip

While God is feeding our souls and we feed other souls of the people of Haiti, Deanna, my wonderful sister will be sending Kansas beef with us to feed us physically.  Angie is planning the meals and I appreciate her so much and I'm sure the food will be nourishing to our bodies to give us strength! 

I am so blessed to have friends who have made a donation to my trip, Dave, Carolyn and George!  They have been a blessing to my life and I will share my blessings from the Lord with people of Gonaives.  AJ and Kristin also sent a donation.  They are a blessing as well. 

Jan and Pastor Jean will be here soon to share with us!  Continue to pray for me and the team as we continue to make plans and share our love of the Lord for others! 

Praise God and Praise him for Candy!

I just love this verse Psalm 96:4 For the Lord is great and greatly to be praised!  Praise God every chance you get!  My hope is in the Lord!

For some background on Gonaives, Haiti which is where we will be, it is in the northern part of Haiti about 4 hours car ride from Port of Prince which is where we fly in.  The roads are still not repaired from the flooding so I am looking forward to some excitement and bumps!  What an adventure!

Somedays all you need is candy!!!!  One of the things be taking is a bag of suckers for the kids, I already have them!  Everyone likes them and even little ones can eat them!  This is a big hit with the kids and I am all about blessing them and they don't take up much room and can be packed around on in things.

Some of the other things I will purchase with funds thanks to Kenny and Wilma Howell are a backpack, sunscreen, bug spray, baby wipes, Kleenex, sheets, flip flops, some snack items, towels and some bright summer clothes to wear while I am there and leave for the people.  The best part is a new Bible will be going with me as well!  I hope to come home with nothing but the clothes on my back because I am so blessed to have this opportunity and can't wait to give it all away in the name of the Lord.  It truly does come back ten fold when you give everything away!

God Bless everyone and continue to pray for the team going in to do this great work of the Lord! 

A Movie, Family and God

Last night Christopher and I went to see The Chronicles of Narina: the Voyage of the Dawn Treader and it was great!  We were glad to have saw the first one so we had a background for the movie.  The early 2D show was sold out so we stayed for the 4:15 and saw it in 3D.  We looked interesting in our 3D glasses.  I thought Christopher wasn't going to stay awake for the movie but he did, I think he has enjoyed his gaming this holiday season.   I loved on Logan and Holli and then came home to a very restful night...no coughing and lots of sleep.  It seems like the dog hair in the house and vents is causing my allergies to flair. 

I am asking for prayers for my Uncle Howard Redburn who is at Wesley, they aren't sure what is going on.  He is a super guy and has always been there to support me and my endeavors, and also for Aunt Julie Anderson who will be having heart surgery at Kansas Heart Hospital tomorrow.  Aunt Julie is a fabulous decorator and made the finishing touches on Ethanni's wedding cake to hide the cracks and flaws that drying fondant can cause.  I sent cards since I wasn't able to go so that should brighten their spirits.  Both of the cards were pictures that Leroy Gipson took and then added scriptures to!  One of them was of a beautiful yellow flower that I grew.     

In the scriptures , Mark 16:15, Jesus is giving the great commission- He said to them, "Go into the world and preach the good news to all creation."  This is what I am looking forward to sharing in Haiti.  The "good news," is one full of grace and mercy for everyone, if you believe and ask Jesus into your heart!