Happy Halloween!

Okay. Let's be real. I really don't like Halloween. As I told one of my pals not too long ago, I gave up Halloween years ago for Lent! (Ha, ha, ha...)

Now many Christian-folk don't like Halloween, usually stating it is an "un-Christian" holiday. That has nothing to do with my dislike. Halloween is about candy, and I love candy. But I digress... 16 years ago today, I was in the hospital having my gall bladder taken out. It was quite possibly the worst pain I have ever felt in my life. I was green. Not a couple of years before that, right around Halloween again, I was having an appendix out. In college years, I sustained a concussion near the dreaded holiday again. Thus, it was time to give up Halloween. No more celebrating. In my mind, it is a cursed holiday for me. These days, I stay inside in a cozy bubble and pray the day to go away quickly.

The only tradition I now enjoy on Halloween is Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin. Where's Linus?! Where's my blanket?! Good night!

Alternative Gift Giving

This is the card we gave to everyone
 in honor of the donation made in their name.

Each year, our families are much like everyone else's -- they go out, buy what they need, and when it comes to Christmas-time, they don't really need or even want anything. Besides, Christmas has become so commercialized, it's rarely about giving a gift out of love, but more of giving a gift out of obligation. This led John and me to Alternative Gift Giving. Instead of the book they'll never read, or the tie they'll immediately exchange, we give our family members something out of the ordinary.

In 2007, we bought everyone a goat through Heifer Project. By 2008, we started a theme to go along with the gift-giving. Thus, "2008, Aren't you great? You're out of this world." Our family members had stars named after them and they were recipients of a few acres on the moon. This still seemed a little too frivolous, and subsequently we went back to meaningful projects in 2009. "Water into Wine" was the theme for 2009, and money was donated to Living Waters For The World projects in Haiti. Each member received a water bottle and bottle of wine (Grapes of Galilee!) in honor of their donation.

In 2010, we had just moved to Las Vegas and did not give the appropriate creative energy to come up with a theme. However, a monetary donation was still given in each family member's name toward the big Haiti project in March 2011.

Overtime, many others have learned of this Alternative Gift Giving. You may remember the goats bought for Blanket Baptist Church. (Ashley, Ancy, Sam & Leo!)  You may remember John & I buying goats for another village in honor of the wedding of our friends, Norm & Jennifer. Since then, many folks have sent me to Haiti with money to help fund specific projects, buy goats, or even baby chicks. (This gives a whole new meaning to the blog name "Thanksgiving Project!") These are the gifts that continue giving...long after we would normally seek out a refund for an unwanted book or hideous tie.

Perhaps this is a tradition you'd like to start for your family and friends?

Solar Under The Sun offers an Alternative Gift Giving Site. You can make a donation by "buying" a watt or other part to the solar system. Downloadable cards are available to print off and give to your family members.

Other options are to visit Heifer Project, Living Waters For the World, or other non-profit organizations. If you need suggestions, I'd be happy to help!

Quick Trip to LA

On Friday, I jumped in the car and set out for Los Angeles! While my body was screaming to stay home and rest, my heart was excited to meet up with my Haitian brother, Ancy, and dear friend, Father Desire Fritz. They were in the US to fundraise and speak to Haiti Healthcare Partners. This wonderful organization provides health care support mainly to a clinic in Cheridant, Haiti.

If you remember, Cheridant was our "home" in August. We not only replaced a clean water system with a solar-powered clean water system, but also installed a solar power system to light the newly constructed Volunteer Guest House. These sites are in throwing distance of the medical clinic in Cheridant, which is supported by Haiti Healthcare Partners.

It was wonderful to meet with my two Haitian friends, but even more importantly, it was an honor and privilege to meet those whose hearts are grounded in love and care for the Haitian people. They see a need in an amazing community, and they have worked years to create a lasting and sustainable partnership with the people they love. They have truly entered into a covenant relationship and together as a family in God, they are empowering their Haitian friends and providing resources for them to succeed.

This weekend, though I was tired and weary, I came home energized having sat around tables with those whose priorities were much the same as my own. Their mission in life is to love God and love others, and they are living out this calling with every ounce of their beings.

I am blessed and so very thankful to call these new friends partners in Christ and partners in Haiti. How much longer till the next trip?? :)

October Haiti Trip, Day 9

Prayer Partners of the Day - Sean Devolites & Pat Cooke


When the alarm went off at 4:00am, it was much too early. Not being used to having air conditioning, my body froze through the night! It was hard to sleep. I jumped up, ready for an ice cold shower to get my blood going...and there was no water. My day was off to a "comedy of errors" start! Thankfully, that did not last too long.

The ride to the airport was quiet, as Lucson and Frantzou and I did not say much. We dropped off Frantzou at the American Embassy with well-wishes for his visa interview. Lucson dropped me at the airport, and I was the third person in line to go in! Thankfully we didn't have to stand in line too long before they opened the airport, and the man at the counter could not have been nicer. He gave be the perfect exit aisle seating, and customs and the three security checkpoints were a breeze.

Remember Rick from the airport on Day Two? Well, as I was sitting upstairs in the PAP airport, here he comes walking along. He sat down and we chatted for a couple of hours. It always amazes me the work people are doing in Haiti. Often it is referred to as the "Country of NGO's" as there are so many groups working to empower the Haitians and uplift their lives.

The rest of the day was quiet. I was asleep before taking off in PAP, and thankfully had plenty of phone calls to make while sitting in Miami. John was a beautiful sight upon arriving back in Las Vegas. I practically ran through the airport in order to get to him quicker!

And so, thus ends another wonderful trip to Haiti...and dare I say, I am already counting down the days until my return!

My heart is overwhelmed with gratitude for those of you who held us in the light and prayed over each of our days. You sustain us and encourage us, and we are thankful to have you along on these amazing opportunities to share the light of Christ. Peace be with you, friends.

October Haiti Trip, Day 8

The first drink of clean water from the Cherette solar-powered clean water system!

Prayer Partner of the Day - Becky Field-Ross

What a beautiful dedication we had this morning at Cherette. The pastor, the principal, and the teachers, along with our team, gathered in front of the water building for prayer and praise. We opened with a few words of thanks to our Haitian family for partnering with us in the project, and then Amy led us in a beautiful Call to Worship and Prayer. We recognized the teachers and operators, awarding their official certification, and of course, no dedication is complete without the singing of "Sevi Ak Dlo Sa-a!"

John presenting operator certificates.

One of our men, John, gave a few words of thanks, followed by the pastor. Our time together was peaceful, simplistic and beautiful and spirit-filled. It was, perhaps, one of the best dedication services I had attended. We ended our time by handing out several cups of water and presenting the leaders with the first cups of clean water from their new system.

It was a bittersweet moment, for sure, saying goodbye to those I have come to hold so dearly in my heart. The children of Cherette are so loving and beautiful, and I will hope to see them again soon. Young Richard, perhaps 12 years old, especially tugged at my heart strings. I gave him my yellow Solar Under The Sun bracelet, and I hope he will remember our friendship, as he certainly will be remembered in my heart.

Jerry and I said goodbye to our team on the main road afterwards, and together with Jocelin, Frantzou and Pierre, we set out for Port Au Prince. We stopped at the monastery to pick up a few things for Jerry. Of course, I was thrilled with the opportunity to see Olizard and Sonie and the Brothers again. They are truly my Haitian family, and the monastery is my Haitian Home! It was also so nice to introduce my new friends, Jocelin especially, to my Haitain family.

We even stopped for ice cream a the beloved Total station on the way out of Leogane. By the time we made it to Port Au Prince, there was just enough time to swing by downtown to hug Ancy, who had arrived back in Haiti. Oh I had missed him so much during this trip. It was strange to be in his home country and not spending time with him.

Jumecourt Inn

As we drove to Croix Des Bouquet, we turned up the music on my iPhone. Here were three Haitian men and two Americans worshipping and singing. We drove through the dirty streets of Port-Au-Prince, among the poverty and the millions of people, and Chris Tomlin's words rang out - "Forever God is faithful, forever God is strong, forever God is with us, forever..." It was a moment still in time, hearing those words and seeing the visions outside of our car.

We arrived at Global Orphan Project's Jumecourt Inn, our home for the night. It's been an emotionally & spiritually draining day, and bed time cannot come soon enough!

October Haiti Trip, Day 7

Prayer Partner of the Day - Mom

Happy Sabbath! We did not attend a church service this morning, even though both of our sites had churches. While I was thankful to have the extra hour to sleep, I missed worshipping with our Haitian partners. This is usually a highlight of each of my trips!

The KIA needed fixing, and a few of us rode into Les Cayes with Lucson to have it repaired. We met up with another carload of our team and drove to the Hosanna House. It is absolutely beautiful, a guest house designed to house mission teams.

Love Richard... Such a precious boy. 

My nasty competitive streak came out during a fun game of Phase 10! After an amazing lunch filled with avocado, rice, beans, plantains, and more, John, Amy, Luke, Jocelin and I went back to Cherette. On the drive over, I pulled out my favorite "question" game! Mission trips are such a great opportunity to learn about others and see the world from their perspectives. I take every chance to listen to their life stories and see what God is doing in their lives. In fact, during this drive, I felt like we had one of those "freeze in time" moments, where we were chatting and sharing just like we had been together a lifetime. There was an ease, a nice friendship developing. (If y'all are reading...Happy "No Pants Sunday!")

Our time in Cherette was wonderful, as it had been the entire week. Have you figured out I absolutely loved this community and the children? It ranks right up there with Blanket as one of my favorite villages in Haiti. The children gathered around, and we watched the music videos on my iPhone. Blake Shelton's "Honey Bee" has now gone international!

We went back to the hotel for only a while, and then went to the beach to enjoy Prestige and the sunset. The fellas enjoyed their swim, and Jocelin and I sat back and just enjoyed the beauty and conversation. Our night ended with a beautiful worship service and communion, led by Amy. It was the most touching, spiritual moment of the trip for me, sharing bread and wine with our team and our Haitian partners. God is good, all the time, and I am so thankful to be a part of this mission.

Solar power... And the beach... It was a good day!

October Haiti Trip, Day 6

Prayer Partners of the Day - Rollin & Linda Wycoff


They always say to never drive in Haiti after dark. This is because there are no street lights. Rarely do cars have headlights, and often trucks are stalled around the corner or up the hill, and without light, you cannot see them until you're in their trunk! Today we did not keep track of time well and left La Hatte a bit too late, which put us on the road after dark. ...But let me back up and start from the beginning.

We started the day in Cherette, playing with the children and waiting for the teachers to arrive. They had asked us to come at 8:00am, so naturally they arrived at 9:30am. My little girls were all around me, fascinated by my blonde hair, as always. I really must look like an alien to them! They helped us paint the banner with their handprints, and thankfully the pastor came out to help us control the crowd! Otherwise, we may have been covered in paint in a matter of seconds!

Our wonderful class at Cherette

Soon after, the teachers arrived, and we had a wonderful class review. Our time together came to an abrupt end, as our ride drove up, and we were rushed off to La Hatte. On the road, we ran into Pierre from Global Orphan Project. Carla, Jocelin & I switched over to his car, which promptly got stuck in the mud...in the middle of the market place. Thankfully, the community members were laughing so much at our Americans being covered in mud they didn't have time to be mad about disrupting their buying and selling.

In La Hatte, we had 25 teachers and community leaders come to our class. It was joy-filled and fabulous. They were a little more energy-filled than our calm, collected teachers in Cherette. Following our three-hour class, I really needed to go to the bathroom... This can be an adventure for a woman... And I begged Jocelin and Lucson to take me somewhere with a real bathroom! They took me down the road a piece to another Global Orphan Project, Casa Major, which houses 181 orphans. (Can you even begin to imagine the good GO is doing to care for this huge amount of children??) It was during this drive we first noticed the Kia was having a wheel bearings issue...

Is she not the cutest thing you've ever seen?

Back at La Hatte, a crowd had gathered to watch the work. The team was pulling out the old well casing, and replacing it with PVC and electrical wire for the submersible pump. The Pastor again was right in the middle of the action, getting dirty, and setting a hard-working example for his community. I was amazed. It was also during this time I met his beautiful daughter, Dorothy. I fell in love within two and a half seconds! There really should be a law against being that CUTE!

The work was going so well, so productive, we did not notice what time it was getting to be. Hence, we were on the road in Haiti after dark. Thankfully, we were surrounded in prayer by our partners, and we arrived at the hotel in one piece.

With Jocelin, "Papa" to so many
Haitian children

At dinner, I sat with the Haitian men - Salien, Frantzou, Jocelin, and Lucson. They are such a riot and hearing their stories makes me want to be a better servant and
model their actions. We talked futbol, Real Madrid versus Barcelona, Messi versus Ronaldo. It made me realize we really are just one community under God. We may live in different places, but we are united by hearts and actions by the love of our Lord.

Today, I am also thankful for Rollin & Linda. I had the honor and privilege of serving alongside them in August, and I am thankful to now call them friends. What a blessing they are to all those they encounter, and their servant hearts are steadfast and constantly giving. Rollin is in Magnolia giving a presentation to Presbytery on Solar Under The Sun! He's traveled long and hard with the solar trailer in tow, and so we pray for him as he travels and tells of the good work God has entrusted to us.

October Haiti Trip, Day 5

Prayer Partner of the Day - Becky Memmelaar

Children at Cherette = AMAZING!

It is hard to remember or to put into words the bountiful and plentiful blessings of today. As we arrived at Cherette, the children were so excited to see us, and we sat outside to play "patty cake" and sing songs. They are so full of love to give and yearn to be held and hugged. I was happy to oblige.

The teachers were very receptive to our classes. The time we spent together was cherished, as we reviewed from the day before, toured the water building, and drilled in hand-washing techniques.

Oh, they enjoyed the black light and hand lotion so much! Carla squirted a lotion into each student's hands and had them rub it in. (It turns clear so you cannot see it anymore.) Then they were asked to go wash their hands thoroughly. Once they air dried, they came over to our dark corner, and we ran a light over their hands. The lotion that was not washed away shows up in the light! They can see who washes their hands well and where they need to wash better! It's an excellent activity and really illustrates the importance of washing hands. They really made fun of whomever had lotion still on their hands or under their fingernails!

Cherette -
Almost Complete

After a quick lunch, we left Cherette to venture to La Hatte. The orphanage there is also overseen by Global Orphan Project, and houses 68 orphans. We were anxious to meet the community and start our classes there. Unfortunately, about halfway down the dirt road, we hit a road block. The road had washed out and they were shoveling dirt to repair it. Two of our men, John and Lucas, plus Jocelin, went across by foot and walked the two miles to the site, as part of our team was already there and needed to know about the roadblock. We feared they may not be able to get "home" that afternoon.

The La Hatte Pastor Clotaire
shoveling dirt.

After popping over to Bethany Mission for a quick look, we came back to the road block. The men had stopped working for the day, but the road was still not repaired. Soon, several members of our team drove up in the Kia on the other side of the road block. The Pastor from La Hatte also came with them, and he actually picked up a shovel and started piling the dirt back into the road. He was furious with the men. What an amazing sight he was...shoveling that dirt until the men finally started working again. Carla & I hopped across the ditch and got into the Kia to go to La Hatte.

We spread out our materials and made our banner for the class. Several of the young boys were standing outside watching, so we invited them in to color the banner. They just loved it.
Tonight at devotions, we sang a song called "Let Me Be Your Servant." Some of the words are ...

Will you let me be your servant, let me be as Christ to you, 

pray that I might have the grace to let me be your servant, too. 

I will weep when you are weeping. When you laugh, I'll laugh with you. 

I will share your joy and sorrow till we've seen this journey through.

This song touched me deeply, as each time I visit Haiti, I feel as though the Haitian people are blessing me much more than I am blessing them. They are serving me much more than I am serving them, and I am so lucky to have the opportunity to be amongst them. Their love, their smiles, their hearts. Amazing.

October Haiti Trip, Day 4

Prayer Partner of the Day - Diana Grace


Today started with a bang...literally! It had poured rain throughout the night and the roads were very slick. The hill from the hotel to the main road is very steep, and one of the cars slid into the Kia. Grace and love were abundant, as the driver felt terrible. The group re-grouped, and packed into the Kia, and off we went to work site one. Of note, before we took the road, we stopped to get gas...not at a gas station, but simply on the side of the road, where the sellers came out with many gas cans and funnels and filled us up! Only in Haiti...

At the end of the road

The drive to Cherette was over a river and up a mountain. The river was rapid but not too high for the Kia. Cherette is sponsored by Global Orphan Project, and on the grounds are a school, church and living space for the orphans. The site was literally at the end of the road, sitting picturesquely by the river, surrounded by mountains and two waterfalls in the distance. Jocelin from Global Orphan Project was our assigned interpreter. He is a wonderful man, full of energy and love. Though he is only 28 years old, he is "papa" to hundreds of orphans across Haiti. His faith in God, his leadership, and his smile are awe-inspiring, and I am so thankful to be working with him this week. I already know we'll be life-long friends.

Carla, Jocelin and I taught a class of 15, maybe 20, teachers from the school. They were attentive and wonderful. We talked creation, health, why we use clean water, germs...all of the basics. Though the children have a row of latrines, literally everyone drops their drawers on the lawn. That can't be good... They freely drink the dirty water and know no difference. This education class with activities for the teachers to use with the children is vital. They must get this message across.

There are so many beautiful, friendly, loving children. So many. In fact, I believe 121 orphans live here. Pastor Nerva Janvier is the picture of a Christian leader, and the principle, too, commands respect. They are lucky to have these two men. By the time we left Cherette today, we had the first day's education class completed and the water board and solar system was looking spectacular. What an amazing day of work!

Also of note today, I was able to sit down with many of the team members for conversations. Not knowing anyone personally before the trip, I was a little anxious, but by the end of today, we were gelling. Doug Roszel and I particularly hit it off. I had met his son, Loren, during Solar School in September, and what a great family of men they are. I am eager to work with him more during additional installations and our upcoming Solar School Instructions. During our devotion time, led by the wonderful roomie Amy, the Haitians (Valdes, Salien, Jocelin, Frantzou and Lucson) spoke of the earthquake. Jocelin especially spoke of praising God, despite his personal loss, and knowing his purpose was even more important with all those around him gone. If I could have an ounce of his faith, I would be such a better servant.

PS - Diana, you are an amazing prayer partner! I am so thankful for you!

October Haiti Trip, Day 3

Prayer Partner of the Day - Carl & Marilyn Jones


This morning, promptly at 5:00am, the bell rang for morning prayers. I had slept so peacefully, it was hard to awake and start the day. Thankfully, the shower was extra icy cold, and my blood began moving quickly! Breakfast was served just for me and Brothers Duyon and Jean Charles, the new fella. In the previous months, they had gotten their distillery up and running, and the brothers convinced me I should walk up the hill to sample the liquor. Thus before 9:00am, I was throwing back shots! What a way to start the day! (In all honesty, I could only handle a small sip of each, as it was VERY strong!)

The view from Jardin Sur Mer

The morning was beautiful and cool, and in memory of my wonderful friend, Chuck, I pulled the chair under the mango tree and spent the rest of the morning reading. Around 11:00am, Olizard came running and told me to hurry, hurry, hurry! We left quickly to meet the team in Leogane at Roody Joseph's place. While I was sad to leave the Brothers and the comforts of the monastery, I was ready to get the week's projects started.

The team, though I had never met but one of them, greeted me warmly. Valdes and Lucson were familiar faces, of course, and one by one, the team introduced themselves. This team was built from a variety of places and churches, all bringing along their own skills and expertise. It is a large team, but already, they seemed in sync. It was quite weird not having Ancy among the group, but he is in Arkansas with Haiti Education Foundation.

Jerry Goode and I were crammed into the front seat of the Kia with Lucson. Again, it was weird for Ancy not to be driving, but thankfully Lucson was a great driver. The road from Leogane to Les Cayes is surprisingly good and mostly smooth. Once we passed Petit Goave, I was in unchartered territory, as I had never been farther down the coast. The closer we came to Les Cayes, the more beautiful it became. We arrived at Jardin Sur Mer in under three hours. It is rather luxurious, which is a bit odd for me. This has sent me into a flurry of thinking... Should you be uncomfortable on a mission trip? Living in the conditions of the people you are serving? Is suffering a part of mission? These are questions I began to ponder throughout the day and night, and still have not come up with a solid answer. While I am thankful to be staying in a nice room with a comfortable bed, it simply does not feel right.

While pondering this internally, we were able to unload and begin organizing our parts and systems. Teams were formed, and Carla & I drew the banners and thought through our lessons and teaching. We had a late lunch of spaghetti and a very nice dinner. The rain has moved in tonight, and we are hopeful to be able to access the second site in Le Hatte if the river is not too high.

Of note, my roomies, Carla & Amy, are simply delightful, and we had a long discussion in our room on mission and suffering. It leaves me with much to ponder, much to be thankful for, and excitement and anticipation of beginning our work. Today, Carl & Marilyn's prayers summoned God to bring us through safe traveling and team bonding. How lucky we were to have them praying for us!

October Haiti Trip, Day 2

Prayer Partner of the Day - Horstman Family


Because I'm addicted to baseball, I, of course, had to stay up to see the ending of the game last night! Thus, there was little sleep, especially with the worry of oversleeping and missing my flight!
Thus, I was in the lobby of my hotel by 4:45am. The Horstman Family's prayers began working immediately. I met a fellow named Rick at the hotel. We rode the airport shuttle together, went through security, and both of us were upgraded to first class on the plane to Port-Au-Prince. Our flight arrived almost 30 minutes early, and Rick, and a Canadian, Jean Louis, befriended me through the gauntlet of customs, baggage claim and the outdoors. Dear Brother Olizard was not there yet, and thankfully neither were Rick or Jean Louis's rides. They stayed with me, as the last thing I would want to do is be alone outside the Port Au Prince airport! Rick's ride came first, and I made Jean Louis promise he would not leave me, even if his ride came!

The Baby Chicks...

Sure enough, Olizard arrived 20 minutes later...with a truckload of baby chickens. Normally one would put the chickens in the truck bed...but no, Olizard was afraid the sun would be too much for the babies. Ten minutes into our drive through town, the chirping noise of the chicks began to make Olizard crazy! He pulled over and moved them. However, one baby chick jumped out and lodged himself under my seat. He was chirping louder than all of the others combined, which forced us to pull over once again to find him and put him outside. (Oh the life of Haiti!)

Baby Goats roaming the farm!

The drive out of town was uneventful, which is just as we like it. Upon arriving in Leogane, we stopped at the goat and chicken farm to settle the babies. They had a new area all set up for them, complete with feed bins and water coolers, plus a fire to keep them warm. They enjoyed their newfound freedom! Of note, we stopped at the ChouChou mart in Leogane...and in their refrigerator they had Diet Coke, Dr. Pepper, Guiness and Corona! These were things I had never seen in Haiti!

We stopped at the St. Charles Clinic, which has been fully completed. Dr. Blaise was there, who now works Monday through Friday, 8:00am-2:00pm. The water system was up and running perfectly, and today it was manned by a wonderful lady. Apparently Olizard and Bertone are also assigned days to sell water! I love a partner who take pride in their water system!

Brother Olizard & the water
system at St. Charles Clinic

Upon arriving at the monastery, they had opened a new entrance by the road. The buildings are being completely restored and things were almost unrecognizable. However, when walking inside, my room was just has I had left it in August! It was so nice to come HOME!

Sonie and I walked down to the school just as the students were being dismissed. Little Lucy was walking along and sure enough she came running over yelling my name. Oh, Lucy! She walked with us everywhere, and it was so nice to spend time with her! A welcome surprise!

LUCY!

Before dinner, Olizard and I went back into town to the goat & chicken farm to pick up a large amount of eggs to deliver to the community. The never-ending work he does for the community and the people is simply awe-inspiring. Nothing he does is without service and love to the people. He is constantly working to make their lives better. How we can all learn from his example!


All four members of the Horstman Family have been in my thoughts and prayers today, and wouldn't you know, I've heard from each of them by text or email! They have provided prayers, encouraging words, and most of all, lots of love. I am so thankful for this family, as they have been with me every step of the way today. I simply cannot wait for January when Jay will be back in Haiti with me!

Peace be with you on the end of day number one in Haiti!

October Haiti Trip, Day 1

Prayer Partner of the Day - The Hogan Family

Have you ever had one of those days where you wonder to yourself, "How'd I get so lucky?"

Today was one of those days. It started with my dear hubby dropping me at the airport at an ungodly hour, even though he didn't have to get up and go to work today. He was even talkative on the drive and a little misty upon my departure. How'd I get so lucky to have him as a husband?

Upon checking in, it appears I've reached some sort of milestone with American Airlines. Thus, I didn't have to pay for bags. Luck again?

The first flight was uneventful, and my dear son and daughter-in-law were greeting me in baggage claim! I hadn't seen them since February, I believe, and it was an amazing couple of hours with smiles, laughter, and lots of love! How'd I get so lucky?

Tonight, as I was sitting for a quick dinner, I received many messages of well-wishes and prayers from friends and family. How'd I get so lucky to have them all in my life?

And then there are today's prayer partners... They started the day with prayers and ended the day with big doses of encouragement! Kathy, Jenna, Kaila & Brianna all sent texts & tweets! I love them so much. How'd I get so lucky?

Well, I don't know the answer to the question, but I am surely thankful for the blessings of friends and family which God has bestowed upon me! Wow, I'm so lucky.

Good night...and off to Port Au Prince tomorrow!

Leavin' On A Jet Plane

Well, my bags are packed and I'm ready to go! Haiti Trip #5 of 2011 will commence tomorrow!

Two of my very dear friends have written wonderful blogs today. Instead of filling you with my words, I would encourage you to read theirs'.

I am thankful to call Becky Memmelaar a friend and a Friend! Read her beautiful, honest sermon based on Psalm 46 - http://beckymemmsbitsandbobs.blogspot.com/2011/10/shhhjust-be-still.html.

I am also thankful to call Carl Jones a friend. These two folks have known me so long, I'd be embarrassed by the stories they could tell you! Carl wrote a great blogs the past two days on baseball. Since I do consider watching baseball a spiritual practice, definitely check out his posts here and here.

Tomorrow, I will write to you from Florida as I prepare to hop on a plane to Port-Au-Prince. Peace be with you, and I am so very thankful to have your prayers sustaining our team!

Grandmother Names...

We've been on the search for a fun "un-grandmotherly" name!

What do you think?? Will any of these fit me??

TRADITIONAL GRANDMOTHER NAMES

Bamaw, Bammaw Big Mama Bubbie DaMa Dama , Dammaw Eema, Eemaw, Ema G Gada GadGee, Gadgi Gadgy GaMa, Gamma Gammi, Gammy, Gami Ganna Ganni, Ganny, Gani GanGan G-ma Gommie, Gommy Gram Gramma, Grama Grammie, Grammy Gramommie Grams Granana Grananny Grandama Grandgran

Grandma Grandmom Grandmother Grandnan Granma Granmama Granmom Granna Granny Gumma Jamma Mamaw, Mamey Mammaw Mammy Mams Marmi, Marme MawMaw MayMay MayMay Maymee MeMa, Meema MeMaw, Mimaw MeMo, MeeMo Mimo MeeMee, MeMe MiMi

Mima Mimma Mimmy Mimsy Minny MoMa, MoMaw MoMo MomMom Momsy Mum, Mums Mumsy, Mumsey Nama, Namma Nan Nana, Nanna Nanny Ne-ma NeNe, NiNi Ninna Ninny, Ninni Nona, Nonna Noni, NoNi, NoNee Nonni, Nonny Ona, Onna

TRENDY GRANDMOTHER NAMES

Ama A-May Ami, Aimee Ammy Babe Babo Bacca Bamba Bama, Bamma Bella Birdie BonBon CeCe, CiCi Coco Dally Dandy Fancy Fammy Fo-Ma, Faux Ma Foxy GaGa GandyMom Gangy, GanGee G-Dawg Gidget Ginja G-Mom Geeda, Geda GeezerGirl Gita GeeMa Glamama Glamma Glammy G.M. Gogi Go-Go Grammar

Grandiose Grandy, Grandi, GranDee Granan Granette Granita Grani, Granni, Granee Granmanny Graylor Grea, Greah Gummy Hamma Kitty LaLa Lally Layla Leelo, Lilo Lela Lola Mami, Mammi MamaMia Manni Mayna MayMay Maysi M'dear Meemer MeMom Memot Mia Miami Minny, Mini Modie Momette MoMar Mombo MomMom Mommoo Mooma

Momsy Mona Monee Mumica Mummers MuMu Muna Nano Nanima Naunee Necie Neema Nema Noma NotherMother Nimo OtherMother Onie Pama Pebbles Pippa Pippy Poma, Pomma Salsa Soosa Sugar Sugie, Shugie Tama, Tamma Tammy Tamsy TeeMa Uma, Umma Vanna Womba Wela YaYo Yama Yana

PLAYFUL GRANDMOTHER NAMES

Abba Banana Bambi – A cuddly name for someone dear Bamboo Beemer Booma Boomie Bunny Ciaba – "cha-bah" Dizzy Dodie Doodie, Dooty Gadget Gitchey Grampoo Granny Mame – A play on 'Auntie Mame'  Grammug – Coffee, root beer, or brew  Grimmi Jamagramma – If sleepovers are a favorite  Jamma Khakie, Kakie Lolly, Lolli Lulu Mamabear Mamacita Mambo

Mayzie Momsy Moogie, Moogs Moo-Moo MoreMom, MoreMama Muddy Muffer, Muffy, Muff Mumpy, Mumps Nanamy Pittypat PomPom Nanoo Nooni NuNu Puddy Pumpkin Punky Tink, Tinky Tinkerbell Toots Tootsie Twinkles Twinkie Upsy Unni Uttermutter, Uddermudder Wicky – Makes light of the 'wicked stepmother' cliche

PERSONALITY & INTEREST-BASED GRANDMOTHER NAMES

BiggieMa – For larger than life grandmas BiggieMama Big Gram  Bubbles – An effervescent personality Cookie Cha-cha – A lively name with a bit of spice  Chatty – Talkative people know who they are Dear, DearMa Dearie Gabby, Gabbi  GoGo – Perfect for high-energy types GoMa Grancie, Grancy Grinni, Grinny – Celebrate a sunny outlook Happy Honey Huggy, Hugs, Hugme – Names demonstrative grandmas can embrace Lovey – The very essence of grandmothering LoveyDovey – Even lovier Mermie – A play on "mermaid" for swimmers Mini, MiniMa – Perfect for small grandmothers MaxiMa – Equally perfect for generously-sized grandmothers QueenB/Queen Bee – If her given name begins with B  Queenie – Another way to acknowledge a regal grandma Sew-Sew, SewMa – For grandmothers who love needle arts SloMa – The easy-going opposite of GoMa Snuggy, Snugs, Snuggums – Cuddly grandmas might cozy up to any of these  Sunny – Give this name to a grandma who always seems to shine  Sweetie – Some grandmothers are just sweeter than others Sweetums – An updated version of an old Endearment TeaMa

INTERNATIONAL GRANDMOTHER NAMES

Aborigine Australian Formal – Garrimaay Australian Paternal – Mamaay Australian Maternal – Momu Polynesian Maori dialect – Tipuna Wahine African Berber dialect – Henna Botswanan – Nkuku Shona dialect – Ambuya Swahili – Bibi, Nyanya Venda dialect – Makhulu Xhosa dialect – Umakhulu Zulu dialect – Ugogo Afrikaans – Ouma Albanian – Gjyshe American Indian Cherokee – E-Ni-Si Cheyenne – Neske'e Eskimo, Inupiaq dialect – Aanaga Navajo – Ama Sa ni Ojibway – Nookmis, Nookomis Arabic Formal – Jaddah, Jiddah Informal – Teta Armenian – Metzmayr Basque – Amona Belarusen – Babka Breton – Mamm-gozh Cajun – MawMaw Catalan – Àvia, Iaia Chinese Cantonese Paternal – Ngin Cantonese Maternal – PoPo Mandarin Paternal –Z¨³m¨³ Mandarin Maternal – Wài pó Croatian – Baka Danish Formal – Bedstemoder Paternal – Farmor Maternal – MorMor Dutch – Grootmoeder Esperanto – Avin Estonian – Va naema Farsi – Madar Bozorg Filipino Cebuano  Formal – Apohang babae Informal – Lola Finnish – Isoaiti, Mummo Flemish – Bomma French Formal – Grand-mère Informal – Gra-mere, Mémé SemiFormal – Grandmaman Galician – Avoa Georgian – Bebia German  Formal – Grossmutter Informal – Oma Greek – Yaya, Gigia Guarani (South America) – Jaryi Hawaiian  Formal – Kapuna Wahine Informal – Puna, TuTu, Kuku Hebrew – Savta Hungarian Formal – Nagyanya Informal – Yanya, Anya

Icelandic – Amma India Bengali Paternal – Thakur-ma Bengali Maternal – Dida, Didima Hindi – Daadima Southwestern – Ajji Urdu Paternal – Daadi Urdu Maternal – Nanni Indonesian – Nenek Irish/Gaelic Formal – Seanmhair Informal – Maimeo or Morai Italian – Nonna Japanese  Formal – Obaasan, Oba-Chan, Sobo (one's own grandmother) Informal – Obaba Korean – Halmoni Latvian – Vecmate Lebanese – Sitti Lithuanian – Senele, Mociute Malagasy – Nenibe Maltese – Nanna Norwegian – Bestemor, Godmor Paternal – Farmor Maternal – MorMor Polish Formal – Babka, Babcia, Informal – Jaja, Zsa-Zsa, Busha, Gigi Portuguese – Avo Romanian – Bunica Russian – Babushka Sanskrit  Paternal – Pitaamahii Maternal – Maataamahii Serbian – Baba, Mica Slovakian – Babicka Slovenian – Stara Mama Spanish  Formal – Abuela Informal Diminutive – Abuelita, Uelita, Tita, Abby, Abbi, Lita Swedish  Paternal – FarMor Maternal – MorMor Swiss Formal – Grossmami Syrian – Teta, Jadda Tamil – Pathi Thai  Maternal – Ya Paternal – Yai Turkish – Buyuk Anne, Anneanne, Babanne Turkmen – Ene Ukranian  Formal – Babusia Informal – Baba Uzbek – Bibi Vietnamese Formal – Danh tử Informal – Ba, Bà già Welsh Southern – Mamgu Northern – Naini, Nain Yiddish – Bubby, Bubbe

(Posting borrowed from http://outsidethatbox.livejournal.com/4695.html.)

30 Day Photo Challenge - Day 29

Day 29 - A Photo That Can Always Make Me Smile

This picture is on my nightstand, and every morning, I wake up to the silly faces of myself with Carrie Delisio (AKA Dutch). Thus, after I say, "Good Morning, God," I am reminded of how lucky I am to have a friend as wonderful as Carrie, and how blessed I am to have so many people I can call "family." How could I not keep from smiling every morning when I wake up?

Today, Carrie received the good word that she will indeed be graduating at the end of the year! Woo hoo! Congratulations, Dutch! And iiiiii :)

Prayer Partners/30 Day Photo Challenge - Day 28

Day 28 - Something You're Afraid Of....

You know what I'm afraid of? Going to Haiti without Prayer Partners!

Our prayer circle on January 12, 2011,
one year after the earthquake. 

That's right, the next trip to Haiti begins on Monday. NEXT Monday! Every time I travel to Haiti, I could not sustain strength and hope without holding my friends in prayer and having them do the same for me. I have been honored to be partnered with so many wonderful prayer warriors, and they have encouraged me through each trip.

This trip to Haiti will be a bit different than the others. For one, I found out today I will be arriving a day before the rest of the team. Miscommunication occasionally happens, and yes, I'll be in Port-Au-Prince a solid day before the others. Thankfully, I have made many friends and family in Haiti, and one phone call made everything better. My dear brothers at Little Brothers of St. Therese will be picking me up from the airport and taking me to my beloved monastery. There, I will stay with wonderful friends and family until my team arrives.

Once I meet the team on Wednesday, I will be heading down to Les Cayes, Haiti, which is an area of Haiti I have never been to. It will be a new experience with a new team, most of whom I have never met in person! God always picks the right members, though, and I feel certain it will be a most successful trip with two solar-powered clean water system installations and two hygiene education classes.

So, will you partner with me through this next trip to Haiti? I'd be honored to pray for YOU!

Prayer Partners: 

(travel day) Monday, October 10 - Hogan Family
Tuesday, October 11 - Jay, Sue, Kylee & Maddy Horstman
Wednesday, October 12 - Carl Jones
Thursday, October 13 - Diana Grace
Friday, October 14 - Becky Memmelaar
Saturday, October 15 - Rollin & Linda Wycoff
Sunday, October 16 - Mom
Monday, October 17 - Becky Field Ross
Tuesday, October 18 - Sean Devolites & Pat Cooke

30 Day Photo Challenge - Day 27

Day 27 - A Picture with a Family Member


This is a picture of my dear friend, Calvin Brumbaugh, who to me is family.

Calvin and I first met in the summer of 1997 at Quaker Lake Camp. I had heard stories for years about the famous Calvin, but had never met him in person. He showed up at Quaker Lake every summer from Ohio to volunteer his time to the camp and the kids he loved.

Calvin was a source of strength and wisdom unlike anyone I had ever met. His actions exuded the love of Christ for all. His words were filled with compassion and strength, and he quoted the Bible with ease. His prayers were powerful and spoke directly to the heart of God. Following the summers with Calvin, he would write letters of encouragement to all of us. He always included a Bible verse on the outside of the envelope, and when I asked him why, he said that he hoped many mail carriers would read it and it would provide hope for them.

My second summer at QLC, Calvin had an accident and his health suffered. He never seemed to recover from the incident, and after a couple of summers, he began staying in Ohio instead of traveling down to North Carolina. We, thankfully, kept in touch, and when John and I were planning our wedding, it was only natural that Calvin be a part of it.  He came down the night before the wedding and gave the most beautiful toast at our rehearsal dinner. During our wedding ceremony, it only seemed right to have him bless our marriage with prayer, as he was more godly than any priest or pastor I had ever met.

Calvin passed away not too long ago, and it was certainly a sad day for all of us who had known him personally. We know God gave him an extra special large set of wings, as he was one of HIS greatest workers. I miss you, Calvin, and cannot wait to see you again!

30 Day Photo Challenge - Day 25

Day 25 - A Picture of My Favorite Day 

Typically, Sundays are my favorite day. When I was a kid, we went to church, went to Nana's house for lunch and then napped and watched television.  As I got older, we went to church, went to Nana's house for lunch, and then I was back at church for youth group. As I got even older, Sundays were catch up days for school work. And as I continued to age, Sundays were mega-sized super-long workdays filled with joy and fellowship. All week long, I would spend time storing up energy and preparing Sunday's lessons and events. They were days I looked forward to and enjoyed spending time with the church members. Now, Sundays are a day off to spend with husband. It's weird, but I'm starting to like it!

This picture to the right was taken on a Sunday in 2003 (despite what the date on the photo says!). This is a picture taken at Pine Hill Friends Meeting, where I was serving as the youth & children's pastor. My dear friend, Rachel Selleck White, was volunteering her time and talents at High Point Friends Meeting. Our youth groups gathered together this particular Sunday for a bonfire worship service. We roasted hot dogs and made s'mores and had a band come out to play for us. It seems like our friends from Oak Hill Friends Meeting and Springfield Friends Meeting also joined us that night. It was a beautiful time enjoying God's creation and glorifying Him with singing and fellowship of Friends.

You may wonder what we are doing in the picture. This was our "publicity photo" for our Kazoo Band, Cort's Mission. Yes, those are Kazoos in our mouths. More on that in another blog!

30 Day Photo Challenge - Day 24

Day 24 - A Picture of Something I Wish I Could Change


I have not been to Africa, and I'd really like to go to Africa. Specifically, I'd like to visit Limuru Town, Kenya. Why, you may ask? That is where my Compassion Sponsor Child, Dennis, lives.

Dennis and I have been family since June 27, 2005. He is a sweet young boy, 12 years old and in 6th grade, and he shares his birthday with my husband, John! Yes, we have two special birthdays to celebrate every July 17th!

Dennis loves to go to church on Sunday mornings and during the week, and he loves to play soccer and ride his bicycle. He helps his grandmother in the house by running errands and cleaning, and occasionally he works with his father.

Dennis lives with his father and grandmother. One of the saddest days in my life was when Compassion wrote to inform me Dennis' mother and two sisters had passed away due to AIDS. It was a very eye-opening, personal experience, and since then I have been even more grateful to be a part of Dennis' life. So...one thing I'd like to change? I'd like to meet Dennis in person and give him a big ol' hug and let him know that across the world, someone is praying for him and loving him every day.