"5 Small Things Friday" No. 90

Go back and read this post for the story behind "Five Small Things Friday".

For this week, here is my list:

1. Sight:

2. Hearing:

3. Smell:

4. Taste: Strawberries And Cream Smoothie

5. Touch: Church Bus Floor

The stories behind the list:

1.

2.

3.

4. The Tuesday before we left Chicago, we went again to that charming little ice cream place next to the church, one more time. I got a 'strawberries with cream' smoothie, and it was so yummy! I must have "flung a cravin'", as Mom says, on Jane and Toby, 'cause that's what they decided to get too.

5. Wednesday, on the way back from our mission trip to Chicago, I spent part of the 15-hour bus ride on the floor of the 15-passenger church bus, trying to catch up on lost sleep. On long church trips, the floor of the bus usually becomes littered with blankets, pillows, and napping young people. There's a good bit of squirming to get into a comfortable position without getting in others' space, and good-natured arguing for a turn at the largest sections of floor.
I love it when it's my turn. Not only is it a chance to get out of the uncomfortable seats and stretch out for a few minutes of rest, but it is a soothing experience in it's own way as well.
Wednesday as the miles passed beneath us on our way back South, I lay on the bus floor, and the hum of the tires was very near - a close, gentle, lulling, one-note tune. The highway vibrated soothingly and the wind of the northern flat lands caught the tallness of the bus and rocked it. My face was buried in my pillow, my light-weight blanket tucked up under my chin, and the floor of the friendly bus was warm under me as it hummed along, mile after mile, faithfully carrying us back 'home' as it had done so many times before. I felt so content, so at peace and rest, almost like I was being hugged by a dear trust-worthy friend and feeling their heart beat.

Being A Servant When It's Not 'Fun'

Today marks one month since The Grandmother fell. Thankfully, she did not break any bones, but she did get pretty bruised up, and was in such pain that she had to stay in her easy-chair for about the first two-and-a-half weeks. Before she fell, she and The Grandfather did quite well living on their own. The Grandfather is handicapped, due to his feet being frozen in World War II, and almost completely dependent. The Grandmother was quite spry and able to care for both of them, with periodical help throughout any given week. But since she's been "out of commission", they have both been completely dependent, and the four of us (Dad, Mom, Trissy, and me) have pretty much been living here with them for the past four weeks.

It has been wonderful to get to spend time together, with great opportunities to help and serve. But, I must admit, it has been very difficult at times. I think I have come to respect my parents during this time, perhaps more than at any other time in my life. For one thing, I'm older and can understand implications that I could not when I was younger and life just 'happened', without me considering all that it takes to make the world go 'round! For another thing, the old saying, "Actions speak louder than words" is so, so true. I have seen my parents demonstrate selflessness, love, patience, respect, service, and humility toward my Grandparents consistently through these past few weeks. There have been many unpleasant tasks that had to be done, late hours that had to be kept. Meals are 'involved', requiring consideration for specialized servings and preparation. Mornings are an ordeal, getting each one prepared for the day, and evenings are even more difficult, reversing the process, plus other things that must be done to prepare for the night. Little tasks that healthy people don't even think about, from getting dressed and brushing teeth, to eating solid foods and moving from one room to the next, are major undertakings. But Dad and Mom have done it all, without complaining. I did not say, without weariness, without struggle. But neither one of them have wished out loud that they didn't have to do some difficult task, have snapped back at an impatient moment, or have acted like they were feeling sorry for themselves or that they thought others should be feeling sorry for them. Sweet Trissy has been the same way. Their example has really been a challenge to me when I've felt like sighing, snapping, or feeling sorry for myself.

Often, in the last couple of weeks especially, I have just wanted to go back to our house again – to clean my room, to work in the yard, to get into some craft projects, to get back our routine, for things to get ‘back to normal’.

But what bothers me most, is that I am able to stay calm and even gracious during hectic times at work, or how I look forward to service and ministry opportunities on church trips or work days, but I have such a hard time keeping a cheerful spirit when it comes to serving my own family. That's not right, but I don't know exactly what to do about it - it's just one of the difficult 'facts about me' that I deal with. I'm praying the Lord will show me how to reconcile the two, and then help me implement the answer.

I keep reminding myself of the principles in the Bible, that being a servant is the most glorified position in Scripture, that 'giving' is more blessed than 'receiving', and that whoever would be first, must first be last. But, humanly speaking, it's still difficult.

A dear friend said about a year ago to someone else, in my presence, "Kyrie's like the Energizer Bunny - could go on all day." Another dear friend used me as an example, only about a month ago, of how a Christian should be - someone who's cheerful and smiling, and I heard about it.
Several times in the last few days/weeks, those two things have been what's kept me going. The thought of 'letting down' those two precious people, in a way, even though they wouldn't find out, spurred me on and gave me determination to not give in to the impatience, drudgery, or exhaustion. Or being bone-tired and remembering those comments, and thinking, "But I'm not, I'm not - I'm weak!", and asking the Lord to help me live up to what they think of me.

And today, I was so irritated, just wanting to get outside in the fresh air and sunshine for a little while, thinking, 'I'm worn out; I am absolutely physically exhausted.' Suddenly this verse blew into my thoughts like a fresh breeze:

"My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever." Ps. 73:26

The point remains, being a servant isn't always 'fun'. It's not always glamorous. There aren't always going to be friends to goof off with to make the time pass while sharing the work. There won't always be an 'audience', even a small one, to bestow a pat on the back and say, "You're doing such a great job!" Being a servant isn't always 'fun'; but it's right.

Thank You, Lord.

Note: Uncle Alvin's were down for a visit, and Jaylyn, Jewel, their oldest sister's oldest son, Trissy, and I all got to spend the afternoon outside, working in the garden, playing a little basketball, petting our new kittens, bicycle riding, and playing "Cranium" in The Grandparents' front yard. It was wonderful!

Recent Happenings

So, before anything else really happens, I wanted to record a few of the things that have been going on lately.


First off, I am SO thankful to be done with yet another semester of school! Lord willing I only have one more (this Fall) and I'll be done for good! YAY!!! :)
The Lord was good, and gave me A's in all my classes, too. I've done well, as far as grades, but I want to finish off the rest of what I have to do, with all A's.


We have a busy summer ahead though! Right now, Trissy and I are trying to get ready for the mission trip we're planning on taking. Several people from our church are planning to be going on various mission trips this summer, and our church itself is planning two of our own. Trissy and I are planning on going on the first one, which is just a little less than three weeks away!


Last week Jaylyn helped us get set up with a Skype account, so now we can talk with them when they go back to the mission field! We're really excited. But they'll be another continent away... that seems so far, yet with the blessings of modern technology, not nearly as far away as when The Grandparents were missionaries overseas!


Mrs. H said for us to keep her incubator over the summer and try to hatch some more chicks. We'd tried right before the end of school, and had put more than twenty eggs in, but not one hatched! We've got thirty-one this time (including eight eggs she gave us from her chickens), and we are hoping and praying they all hatch, are healthy, and are mostly hens! Our hen population is down to three, and Mom is missing getting to do all her cooking with 'home-grown' eggs.







The ones in the first picture are two of the ones from Mrs. H. She gave us four of the little tiny white banty eggs, and four others that are real small, but I don't think completely banty.
The ones in the next picture are the two sizes we put in.
The last picture just shows a comparison of all four sizes together.
(Sorry about the marker on the shells. We wrote the date we gathered each egg in Sharpie on the shell, so we could tell later how the age of the eggs affected how likely they were to hatch.)



Uncle David came over for a week-or-so's visit, and The Grandparents have been thrilled to have him here! His whole family was hoping to get to come right after Christmas, and the funeral of the oldest uncle, but were not able to afford the plane fare for four people across the ocean. Someone in their sponsoring church, though, gave an offering of enough for Uncle David to come and see his parents. He is so hyper and fun and joking, and yet so willing, hard-working, and one of the most respectful-to/of-his-parents people I know. It's been good having him around to 'increase our endorphins', and we can tell The Grandparents have really 'perked up' to have his lively spirit around.


Yesterday, was Justice and Noel's wedding. The bridesmaids wore black dresses, and the groomsmen wore black suits. The women carried red roses and the men wore red rose boutonnieres. Justice's coat was white to match Noel. Somehow I did not end up taking a single picture! Oh well...
We ended up going to two weddings yesterday. Justice and Noel's, and then one of a young man whose family we have known since the kids were just little bitty. They are home school friends, and we were part of the same home school group for years. I did take a few pictures there.




Lindy and her family used to go to church with their family, so she was there too, and sat with us.


While we were in town yesterday, we went by Lifeway and I picked up 'The Voyage of the Dawn Treader' that I had pre-ordered before it came out. Dad took Trissy and me to see it in the theater - Mom was sick, and couldn't go with us :( - and that was the second time Trissy and I had been to a theater (the first was for Fireproof). I would NOT want to go regularly, but I'd like to support good movies. We hope to go and see Courageous when it comes out in September. But anyway, Dad really liked 'Dawn Treader', so Trissy and I are going to give it to him for his birthday :) .
While I was there, I also got 'Pendragon' which I have been wanting ever since I saw it several months ago. If you want something good, clean, imaginative, and exciting to watch, (not including Sherwood Pictures movies) I would recommend this! It is excellent! Uncle Alvin's are supposed to come down tonight, and Jaylyn and Jewel have been wanting to see it again, so maybe we can watch it after church.


Toby hurt his knee playing basketball a couple of weeks ago, and the doctor thinks he may have torn his ACL. If he has, he'll have to have surgery to fix it, and may not get to go on the two mission trips he was planning on being a part of this summer. Lindy said he's pretty discouraged about that, but still hopeful. He has an MRI on Tuesday, to find out for sure what's wrong, and after that, he and his parents can make a decision on what he's going to do.


Mrs. Shannen, Bro. Earl's wife, recently learned she has a hole in her heart, and she's going to have surgery this week, Lord willing. A week or so ago, she was at work, and one side of her face went numb, and she felt lightheaded. After alot of tests, they found out that the hole in her heart that all babies have when they're born had never closed up, and it was letting little clots through, and causing minor strokes.
It kind of gave us a scare, but she seems fine now, she's just going to have to have it closed up.


Bro. Earl's got laryngitis, so he couldn't preach this morning. Bro. Dennis preached for him, and it was excellent as usual. He preached on what true success is, and how to obtain it. Success is not health, wealth, and prosperity. Success is being satisfied with where the Lord has you, and doing your best for Him in the situations you find yourself it.
That's the sermon in a very small nutshell :) .

About halfway through the sermon, the electricity went off! I mean everything, the microphone, the lights, the recording machine, everything. He was just talking along, and all of a sudden there was kindof a snap, and the whole big auditorium went dark. Nobody missed a beat, just 'rolled with it' as they say, and Bro. Dennis just kept preaching and would say something like, "Now, if you can see your Bibles, please turn to this scripture reference" every now and then.
It was actually kind of cozy :) ! Some of the men got up and opened the doors into the hallways and the foyer, to let the sunlight in, and we just kept going. I am just sad that the recording machine couldn't work, because I had wanted a copy of the service to re-watch later.


"Austin and The Band" as Bro. Mike calls them (our young people who play and lead the singing for the youth class on Wednesday nights) led our music this morning and did an excellent job. I suppose they did the music because Bro. Dennis was preaching and couldn't do both.
They are getting better and better. They're all good musicians, but when they first started, they sounded like they were just starting, if you get my drift ;) . Now they blend and seem to play off each other really well. It seems like they're better every time I hear them just about! They usually pick out really good music and songs too, which of course, is half the thing, right there. And they use their great talents to glorify the Lord; that's the best thing - knowing these kids want to love and serve Christ - that's so rare these days in young people. These are such a blessing!


Dad had made hamburgers Friday, and we had them for left-overs today for lunch. Mom usually likes us to cook a 'Sunday dinner', but with all the running around and other things that have been happening lately, and since we had plenty, we just decided to do left-overs today. Trissy started fixing Dad's burger, then she called me over and showed it to me and said, "I'm going to call him to finish it!" :) .



She's real cute with things like that.


Well, I think that's about it. Besides, Trissy and I need to scoot on off to choir practice. Bro. Dennis let us all have a couple of weeks off after Easter :) .

I just wanted to record a few of the things that have been happening around and to me.
This morning church especially was SUCH a blessing and refreshment from the Lord! I can never cease to thank Him for leading us to this place, and the wonderful family He has given us, and the lessons (both easy and hard) He has taught us here. He is so amazing; so good.

{Zig-zags courtesy of Jones Design Company}

Influence And White Carnations

Sometimes it's just those little things that mean the most - that make the difference between life and existence, happiness and ho-hum-ness, success and mediocrity.
Little things like a kind word, a smile, or a white carnation.

I used to wonder if I had any impact, any influence on the people around me. Now, you may think, "That's silly! Every person's life affects someone else's!" and yes, that's true. Because of me, my Mom had one more person to cook for, one more batch of laundry to do. My sister had someone to nag her, my dad had another reason to work long hours. But I longed to be a positive influence in someone's life. Sermons and lessons of other types, stressed the fact that 'someone is watching what you do, and then acts accordingly; someone follows your example; someone is influenced by who you are'. But (at least in my own mind) I had no one. No one looked up to me, no one admired me, no one based their decisions on what they thought I would or would not do. Or so I thought. Looking back, I've realized how foolish I was. My sister (though of course we experienced the normal amount of conflict and challenges) adored me, my parents' lives could be made easier or harder depending on how I acted, the Christian clerk or shopper in Wal*Mart could be encouraged by seeing a well-behaved child. Just because I had no 'friends', because my little corner of the world was made up of just a handful of people, meant in no way that I didn't have influence; it just meant my influence was effective on a handful of people instead of a crowd, on my relatives and close relations instead of 'friends' and peers.

All that being said, as life has progressed, the Lord has brought into my life people who, at the time of my life I described above, would have seemed like 'prime targets' for my influence. Perhaps He waited intentionally for me to gain a little wisdom and experience before He 'trusted' me with someone!

At the church we were at before this one, I was a huge influence on the other children, and I knew it. And, I tried to act accordingly. It was a very small church, and I was the oldest of the group that could be considered the 'young people'. Our ages ranged from about 2 to 13. Those little kids looked up to me. Especially one, who I consider my 'adopted' little brother (one of my best friends in the world, despite the almost 10 years difference in our ages). One either Sunday or Wednesday night we were out behind the church playing tag or cowboys-and-indians or some other role-playing game (the kids would all play outside while the adults visited after church). I remember we were walking along beside the church building, deep in some adventure, when out of the blue my young friend asked me (and I quote), "You're like Jesus, aren't you?" It was more of a statement, than a question.
I was young, but I caught a glimpse of the enormity of that question, and answered as best I could, that, well, I wanted to be like Him.
But I realized, perhaps for the first time, what an impact I had on the life of that young person, anyway, if on no one else in the world.
So many times in the years that have passed, as we have both gotten older, I have wanted to ask him what he meant by that question. Like Jesus how? The way I loved the 'children', like He did? The way I unselfishly played endless hours' worth of games with them, even though I was so much older than the rest of the group? The way I tried to live, as an example? What was his little-boy question really wanting to know?
I suppose he probably does not even remember asking. That was so long ago, and any amount of time is automatically made longer in one's mind, the younger they are. And he was very young. But that question has inspired me, encouraged me, and challenged me, all these years.

This past Sunday I was reminded again, tangibly, of the influence I have as a young adult, over the younger children at Victory Rd.. I'm in a hard-to-define, but deffinitly existent, category: Not quite an 'adult', but still very grown up, in their minds, I'm sure (I remember when 6th grade was grown, 17 was the ultimate, and I'm older than that now ;) !). It is the perfect category to be in to have a dramatic influence on the 10-14 age range.
Both of Archer's younger sisters fall into that range.
My whole family loves the whole S. family, and they love us. But the two little sisters are very attentive to what Trissy and I do. Little things, numerous things, that it would take to long to try to record, have built a strange but strong friendship between us.
None of the S. family members have very dramatic personalities, and the youngest, Piper, probably the least of all. When she does something, she doesn't make a big deal about it. When she offers herself, she doesn't explain, but innocently expects you to understand her heart.
For special occasions such as Mother's Day, Father's Day, or Valentines, a group of the church ladies takes 'orders' for carnations. Someone can 'buy' a carnation in honor or in memory of a family member, and the proceeds go to help missions. The carnations then make the flower arrangement for the Sunday morning of the occasion, and that night, everyone gets to take the carnations they ordered home with them Sunday evening after church.
The florist got the order mixed up for us, so the Valentine's carnations weren't ready until just this past Sunday, instead of the Sunday before Valentines.
So, Sunday evening, Trissy and I were out in the foyer area, watching and visiting with various people as we milled about after church, carnations in hand.
Suddenly, Piper was at my elbow.
"Hey Piper!" I said, and reached out to hug her, for though she is so reserved, she always hugs me whenever we meet. But this time, instead of a hug, she had something else.
"This is for you." And she held out a white carnation. It was so sweet and simple and sincere, I almost cried when I realized there was nothing I could say to express how much the gesture meant to me. She turned to Trissy, "And this is for you." and gave her a red one. As we tried to express our thanks, she just smiled her funny little Archer-style smile and without another word, melted back into the crowd of people.
On the way back from church that night, Trissy and I wondered what had made her do it. Had someone had extra flowers, given her some, and she decided to share them? What made her share some with us? Had she 'bought' them for the Valentine's bouquet, specifically for us? Why? Had someone else wanted us to have them, and asked her to deliver them?
But no, I don't think that last one. They were from her. You could tell by the look on her face.
Anyway, her reasons don't really matter. All that matters is that her sweet little heart found something in us that meant something to her, and she wanted to express her love.

I don't think she will ever know what that white carnation means to me.

But if anyone is reading this, DO NOT think you have no influence. No matter who you are, even if you are an invalid who cannot get out of your house, you affect another life. If nothing else, your heart could be right before the Lord, which could cause you to pray for someone, which will accomplish great work in their life. Some of you have an audience of hundreds. Just remember that with great power comes great responsibility.

May the Lord guide and help me as I live before watching young eyes.

Update:
Here is an excellent post by another blogger on this subject.

"A little hard work never hurt anyone..."

Yesterday we (Dad, Mom, Trissy, and me) all went to Archer's family's place to help them put the roof on the house they are building. Archer's dad is a great thinker - he's also a Christian, a husband, and a father. All those things come together to make him take the action he does. With the goal of being more self-sufficient, and more private, they're living on a piece of land out in the "boonies" you might say, building a homestead using their own hands, research, and alot of prayer. Bro. S. wants more for his family than the modern 'norm', and takes this mission very seriously. Instead of a TV, they have a trampoline the whole family uses together. Instead of trips to Disney World, they take their kayaks out on their ponds or float the creek. Instead of lots of 'things' to keep the kids busy, they raise produce and animals for entertainment, education, and personal use. And instead of building a small mansion on this beautiful land, they are building a modest, economical farmhouse-style home. Dad really likes to talk with Bro. S. ; his way of thinking is so refreshing and, sadly, so scarce in this age we live in. The family of six is living in a barn already on the property, and a little old camper trailer, until the house is finished.
Anyway, so like I said, the better part of our Saturday was spent baking in the sun, melting from humidity, and helping these dear friends try to knock out the roofing job in one day. It was hot, it was humid, but it was also very rewarding. Archer and Law's two younger sisters, Abigail and Piper, gave Trissy and me the grand tour of their farm (Mrs. S. showed Mom around), in between lifting sheets of metal roofing up to Bro. S., Archer, Law, and Dad, and moving scaffolding and sheet metal around to different positions. Bro. S.'s mother was also there visiting - a really neat lady, very spry, very likable, and a master gardener. We helped pick peas and lima beans while she told us interesting facts about plants and bird feeders. After picking, we, along with Mom, Mrs. S., and the three dogs, ;) sat under a tree and shelled as long as the men didn't need water, recharged batteries for their drills, or more sheet metal. That was really fun!

A couple of pictures from the day (click on them to view them larger):




This is where we were shelling. Abigail, Piper, Bro. S.'s mother, Trissy, Mrs. S., and Louis the dog ;)


I Heart Lima Beans! ;D



The men on the roof while we were shelling. Dad, Bro. S., Archer (behind Bro. S., sitting on the roof to tie his shoe), and Law. Law is getting a little head start on the break they were fixing to take ;) .

Law is a very interesting person - guess it runs in the family; Archer is pretty quirky himself :) . This is kindof a side note, but I didn't record it when it happened (I think it was the same Wednesday night service I told about here) and I'd like to remember it:

Law used to not play his guitar much with the group upstairs on Wednesday night because, for one thing, Japan was the 'regular', and for another, he wasn't old enough yet to be in that class. But then Japan left, so Law started filling in more. He's almost as good as Archer. Anyway, after we finished one song and the 'musicians' were getting ready to move to the next, one of the young people (I don't remember who, but it was one of Law's friends) called out, "Go Law!" kindof teasing him, but as a compliment at the same time.
Law looked up, looked them square in the eye across the room, and in front of everyone, stated emphatically, "This is for Jesus!"
He has a funny accent 'cause they didn't grow up in the south, and that, coupled with the fervor with which he spoke (Law doesn't seem to be one to get riled easily), made me just want to laugh! But I was so proud of him! If he will keep that spirit of the Lord first always, he will grow up to be a great man. God help our young people! May He raise up this generation to accomplish GREAT things for Him!

Encouragement

This past Sunday, I recieved a sweet blessing that I thought I might like to remember.
I have always desired to be a good example, and an encouragement. Early Sunday, I had prayed specifically that I would be used to encourage other believers - especially people at church, who had been such a blessing in my life.
Before the day was over, Bro. Earl, Bro. Mike, and two others had all expressed to me that the Lord had used me to be a blessing to them. Talk about an immediate answer!

Heb 10:24 says,

"And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:"

How many times we struggle along, feeling sorry for ourselves and our 'problems', when we could be being used to lift the burdens of someone else! And how many times therefore, we miss the opportunity to have our own lifted.

Austin's Back!

{Photo property of Marilla Heights Photography}

Well, 'our boy' is back in the States, safe and sound, mission complete. He was supposed to arrive next Saturday, but he e-mailed Trissy and me (who he calls "The sisters [he] never had.") and told us he would be home by today, but not to tell anyone, 'cause Bro. Earl and Mrs. Shannen didn't even know! It was going to be a surprise... Ha! well, it was a surprise alright! He came home last Saturday, instead of yesturday, and about shocked the living daylights out of us too! Well, he's his father's son, and his older brother's younger brother, so why should we have been surprised that he would trick us too?! :) But we are so glad to have him back. We still haven't gotten a chance to talk talk with him, and find out exactly how things turned out (he'd been having us pray for some specific people over there that he was hoping would be saved before he had to leave and come back), and hear all his stories. He says he's got alot of them; I imagine so, after spending almost a year as an under-cover missionary, so to speak, in a dangerous country having never been away from home in his life! He's thinner than when he left, but other than that, and getting used to hearing people regularly speak in English, he seems like the same old Austin!
As you may know, I have no blood-kin brothers, though I have always dearly longed for them - especially older ones. The Lord did not see fit to grant my wish in that way, but He has given me some very special 'adopted', spiritual brothers, who have been perhaps even more of a blessing than blood kin. Austin is one of these.
The Lord truly is good to us!

VBS - 2010

Vacation Bible School is now over for this year and we had a wonderful time! Well, over except for the 'closing program' which will be tonight, Lord willing. It was a really rewarding experience - I was the Pre-K 'Group Leader' (the person who leads the kids from one place to another, makes sure they're where they need to be throughout the evening, and takes care of them if they need anything) and the kids were so fun! Their eagerness and excitement really reminded me of how the Lord tells us to be like little children in our seeking of Him.
Trissy was the Kindergarten Group Leader, and Oliver and Lindy were the teachers for both the Pre-K and Kindergarten groups.
Monday night's lesson was on the parable of the four kinds of soil, and how we should be like the good soil, and have our hearts ready for the sowing of the seed of God's Word. (Mark 4:3-20)
Tuesday night was on the parable of the lost sheep; how the shepherd left all the others to go out looking especially for the one little lost one, and how the Lord wants us to be His sheep (Luke 15:3-17),
Wednesday night was on the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-35),
Thursday night was the man who asked to borrow bread from his friend at midnight (Luke 11:5-10), and
Friday night was about the parable of the Talents. (Matthew 25:14-27).
I only stayed with the kids in the room to hear the lesson on Monday and Tuesday nights, the others I was running errands and staying busy elsewhere, so I didn't hear the last three nights' story "applications".

Including each night of the week, I had a total of 8 different children in my group (Friday night they all came, and I was glad they were all together on the last night), and more than half of those (5) also go to the Christain Academy! So I already new them, and didn't have to spend alot of time trying to learn names and temperments. :) They were all very well-behaved all week, as well as being enthusiastic ;)
So that's how VBS went, in a nutshell.

On a slightly side note, Tuesday night Lindy told us that one of our young men had led a girl to the Lord the day before (they are both music majors and go to college together, and the girl is the girlfriend of another of our young men)! And also on Thursday night, I think it was, the older daughter (whose about 11) in one of our church families 'announced', for lack of a better term, that she had been saved a little over a week before. Both of these girls were baptized this morning, along with two other women who had been visiting the church, and were recently saved! So, in the words of the 11-year-old's little sister, "This is a good day" :D

"...Thou Hast Made Me Glad..."

Thank you to anyone who prayed for my friend's mother and baby brother - he is here, and everything appears to be fine! PRAISE THE LORD! Trissy and I were at the church working on VBS decorations, and Mom called and told me the postcard had come. Praise God! My friend and her little sisters (not to mention her parents) have been wanting a little brother for a long time, but some medical quirk (I don't know the name of it) caused her mother not to be able to have sons for some reason. I've been praying about it for several years, and in 2007, it looked like the Lord was going to allow it to happen, but they lost him. So when my friend wrote and told me in October (best birthday present!) that she was going to have another brother or sister, I knew (you know, as sure as human 'sure' can be) that it would be a boy, and that the Lord would keep him safe, and I've been praying so hard for the past seven months. Yesterday, when I hadn't heard yet, I was beginning to get so afraid, so I went out into our little orchard and sat down in the grass, and just poured out my heart before the Lord. Finally, a peace came, I just let the Lord have it, and the thought came to me, "Maybe I'll get word in the mail today." Well, I didn't, but I'd given it to Him, and though I was still sad, it was just kindof like, "Well, okay."

Then I got the postcard today.

It was as if the Lord took just long enough for me to let it go. Isn't He good?

This is the main verse that has been repeating itself through my mind throughout the afternoon:

"For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands."

Ps. 92:4

There have been others as well, all praising God for His wonderful works to the children of men! Oh He is Good! Praise His Name! My words fail, trying to express the thankfulness of my heart, but I know He understands my gratitude, and I wanted to share this little story in the hopes of encouraging someone who may read it.

SOLI DEO GLORIA!

What's Been Happening...

Hello! Just thought I'd try to fill you in a little on what's happening with me! :)

Well, last Thursday morning, my four-member family left on a two-day-one-night camping trip - something we haven't done in AGES! We had an extremely enjoyable time, sitting and reading, swimming, hiking, playing UNO, and just visiting, knowing there was nothing 'pressing' that was demanding our time, and nowhere we had to go. We took our new tent (we've only slept in it twice before, and both of those times were in our backyard, which doesn't count ;) ), and Dad made hamburgers and hotdogs on the little grill provided at the camp site (yea, I know, we cheated) and we roasted marshmallows over a campfire. All in all, we really enjoyed the two days.

Next week (beginning Monday) is Vacation Bible School at church, and Trissy and I have been over there every day this week (except today) helping Lindy and her mom decorate Oliver's classroom. Yes, Oliver is one of the teachers - he's got the kindergarten age group. He's had to work most of the week though, and couldn't work on the room himself, so he was really grateful for the help. We've had alot of fun, but we're about ready for it to be finished! We are really praying for the Lord to get glory out of this VBS. We've been praying for the kids that will attend, and even for adults that might be affected as well.

I made tacos for lunch today, and they turned out pretty good, even if I do say so myself ;). I'm not much of a cook, so that's always 'iffy' - how the meal will turn out, that is. :)

I'm supposed to start a summer class Monday. It's online though, so that is a REAL blessing! I won't have to drive to the college that way, and I might still have a chance at some of the summer trips going on around here. There is a camp in June (I might have mentioned it before) run by some people who go way back with my folks. They used to be missionaries together, and now some of the kids are great friends with Trissy and me. I am so praying I can go to that camp! The Bible teaching is so good, and it's a great challenge - plus I get to see friends (family, almost) who I only get to fellowship with once or twice a year.
Speaking of these friends-who-are-almost-like-family, one of these friends' mother is expecting a baby any day now. Her parents have been wanting more children for years now (she has two sisters), and they've lost about five. This one was supposed to come Tuesday, and she promised to send me a postcard as soon as he got here. I should have gotten it by now, and I'm getting afraid something went wrong. Please pray for this!

Well, I've got to run - So long for now! :)

What God Hath Joined Together...

Sunday was a wonderful day! Somehow everything seemed to glow almost. I can't really describe it, but it was as if the whole day just had this sort of other-worldly type vividness of color and experience - I know, it sounds kind of strange, but that's the only way I know how to describe it. It was really a 'lift' to my spirit though, so I'm posting about it ;)

Part of it (well, at least one thing that happened that I can pin my finger on that wasn't just a 'sensation') was looking over at Bro. and Mrs. A and seeing ... Well, let me say this first:
Because you all don't know these people (I've changed names anyway), then I feel like I can tell this. Bro. and Mrs. A are a couple in the church who I have secretly been worried about for quite some time. They are both very active in the church, they stay busy "doing things for God" as the expression is, and they both 'talk the talk'. But, I've been concerned about them. The two of them. Their relationship as husband and wife. Now, outwardly, everything is fine. But I like to observe people - I always have. I like to study those I love, and try to find out what makes them 'tick'. So, over the past few months I've noticed little things about them... it has greatly concerned me, and I've prayed for them earnestly - that the Lord would give them an unquenchable Love for Him and for each other. One that would only grow stronger as time wears on. One that lasts forever.
Ok, so Sunday morning at one point during the sermon, I happened to look over at them. And Bro. A had his arm around Mrs. A (propped on the back of the pew), and his thumb was just brushing back and forth against her shoulder in this sortof comforting little jesture! Maybe all this sounds silly, but that one little thing just made me sooooo happy! It was just such a cute and protective little action, the type of which I had rarely seen him do. Now, he is always kind, but he has seemed sort of distant to her, and a wife needs to feel safe in her husband. Sunday night was the same thing, only now his whole hand would squeeze or rub her shoulder gently every now and then.
(And yes, I did hear the sermon :)!)

I wanted to include the notes I jotted down in my bulletin about it. One thing that grieves me more than anything is to see marriages break up, and this little incident was just such an encouraging thing - I have cried so many tears for them! So even though (and I know this is true) I can't express my thoughts and feelings very well or successfully, just believe me when I say that the Lord is working, and it is greatly encouraging me.
Here are my notes. I am very happy.

~

Sun. Morn. March 14, 2010

"Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!" -Ps. 107:8

SOLI DEO GLORIA!

There is none like our God.
No one is worthy to look on Him -
to look to Him
yet, He looks to us;
He deigns to see to our comfort -
to answer our prayers - to dry our tears,
and make us to laugh again...

~

Sun. Night March 14, 2010

God is the God of Love -
He is the God Who answers
prayers, Who banishes heartache.
Glory to His Name

"There be three things which are too wonderful for me, yea, four which I know not:
The way of an eagle in the air; the way of a serpent upon a rock; the way of a ship in the midst of the sea; and the way of a man with a maid."
-Prov. 30:18 & 19

Oh my dear friends! God bless you!

~

If you would, please pray with me for the strengthening of this marriage, and the glory of God in this couple's life.

Odds And Ends, And Recent Happenings

Ok, this post is just sort of random stuff that's been happening in my life lately, and I thought I'd share it...

This is just something small that happened about a week ago, that reminded me that the Lord just likes to make us smile sometimes!
I have a keychain that a friend gave me for my birthday years ago, but it is probably my most treasured possession next to my Bible. It is a sturdy little metal cross with ivy engraved on it, and the words, "With God, all things are possible." I was getting ready for bed the other night about a week ago, and thinking about some things I'd like to see happen, but that seemed almost impossible. I flipped back the covers to crawl in, and there was that keychain, in the bed! "With God, all things are possible" My mind immediately jumped... maybe it would happen! Then, almost as soon as I thought that, this verse popped into my head, "...I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. ..." Of course, this is the Apostle Paul addressing the Athenians on Mars' Hill, but the timing was just so perfect, that it made me laugh out loud! I believe the Lord truly does have a sense of humor!

I've been working on a crocheted shawl for about two weeks now, and finally finished it Sunday! It didn't quite turn out how I thought it would, but it works, and was fun to make! Here are a couple of pictures of it:

Thanks to my friend W. for "modeling"!
If you want to try it yourself, click HERE for the pattern. Just a warning though, if you want the triangle to be very deep, you've got to make the beginning chain longer. I have a friend who made one out of the same yarn as the pattern calls for (I made mine out of maroon acrylic), and hers turned out BEAUTIFUL! She even wears it to church over a black top, and it looks so elegant!

Well, in about twenty hours my grandparents, Mom, Trissy, and I will be headed on a six-hour car ride to attend the wedding of one of my cousins! Trissy is going to be the 'bride's assistant", and I'm a photographer! Not the main one (I'm not THAT good LOL), but she (the bride, our cousin) liked some of the just personal pictures I've taken at other cousin's weddings, and she wants me to be sort of a 'candid photographer'. I'm really looking forward to it! The wedding's Saturday afternoon, we'll be staying for church Sunday, and come back on Monday. I hope it's not too hectic, 'cause I have classes early Tuesday morning! Oh, well, it'll all work out. :)

This past Saturday we (Dad, Mom, Trissy and me) went to an evangelism study being started at the church. Justice and another man in the church have been 'trained' to teach the material, and it's designed to teach how to share your faith in a non-confrontational but thought-provoking and loving way. Saturday was the all-day introduction, and now classes will be every Wednesday night starting Mar. 4th. My family, Oliver, Landon, two older ladies in the church, and Ashlyn ( I haven't told about her yet, but I'll try to soon) are the ones who are taking this class. I'm hoping it'll help me share my faith in college. We'll see how it goes.

Tonight's college Bible study, and I'm (of course ;) ) looking forward to that little boost. I still haven't told about last week, and it was about the best one we've had so far, I think. It was so good. Maybe I'll get a chance to tell about it, but with the trip and everything, I may not.

One last thing I thought some of you might enjoy: Hannah Paige is having a photography contest on her blog! The theme is "Color". I'm looking forward to seeing what kind of entries she has! Click HERE to find out more, or to enter!
I'm going to accomplish two things here at once :) This is my entry in her contest, and it's also a mystery picture:




Several of my blogging friends have done mystery pictures, and they have been alot of fun, so I thought maybe I'd try one! You have until next Thursday (a week!) to guess, mainly because I probably won't have much blogging time between now and
then :[ ...

Ok, I'm at the college and class is about t0 start, so I'd better go. Maybe I can come back later today :)

In the mean time, have a wonderful day, and Keep looking Up!

-Kyrie<><

A Year Of Learning - A Year Of Blessing

Today marks one year since the first Sunday we visited the church we are now a part of, and of which I speak so highly. If you read my posts, you know what a marvelous blessing this church has been to me, and my family. The Lord truly did a great thing for us when He directed us to this place! Even if my writing abilities are not what they would need to be to express that blessing adequately, I enjoy being able to relate some of our lessons and experiences here.

God has taught me so much through the people and experiences at this church! I feel (I pray) that I have learned so many valuable life lessons, grown so much spiritually, broadened my understanding of God, and narrowed the focus on myself. I feel closer to peace, farther from frustration. And I know I'm growing, because the challenges are coming thick and fast! But with the Lord's help, they are being - slowly but surely - overcome.

And as an added bonus, He has given me something I wanted as well! I have always desired more brothers and sisters - especially older brothers. And now in this one concentrated place, I have about ten or so friends who I believe the Lord put there just to satisfy this "need" in my life - so longed for and now so satisfied.

"The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad."

Psa. 126:3

What are some ways the Lord has worked in your life recently?

Blessed Be Your Name

We sang this last night at church in the young people's class. As a general rule, I don't really care for alot of the modern 'Christian music', but this has become one of my favorite songs of all time. It really has alot of 'meat' to it, if you get my meaning, and the Lord has really used it in my life lately. I thought I'd share the lyrics here for you!

The young people (from about age 14 through college) meet in an upstairs room for their Wednesday night lesson. Before the lesson, we always sing a couple of songs, and about four of the young people are in charge of 'leading' it. Archer plays several kinds of guitar, Bro. Blake's son Simon plays the drums (I don't really care for drums, but in all fairness he's really quite good and doesn't overdo it), Julia (haven't mentioned her yet - she's definitely one of the 'cooler' kids, you know, perfect blond hair, perfect in-style clothes, and an attitude that comes out occasionally, but I think she really does have a good heart - Trissy is closer to her than I am, and likes her) sings, Japan (his nickname - he looks oriental, but he really isn't - I don't think :) ) plays a guitar, and last night Archer's younger brother Law played another guitar. They all do a good job, and I said all of that to say this: I like our church's versions of these 'new' songs, generally alot better that the people who recorded them. So, many times when I mention a more 'modern' song that has blessed me, I am thinking of the way our church does them :) !

BLESSED BE YOUR NAME

Blessed be Your name
In the land that is plentiful
Where Your streams of abundance flow
Blessed be Your name
And blessed be Your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed be your name

Chorus:
Every blessing You pour out I'll
Turn back to praise
And when the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

Blessed be Your name
When the sun's shining down on me
When the world's "all as it should be"
Blessed be You name
And blessed be Your name
On the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be Your name

Chorus:
Every blessing You pour out I'll
Turn back to praise
And when the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, blessed be Your name
I will bless Your name

Chorus:
Every blessing You pour out I'll
Turn back to praise
And when the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, blessed be Your name

He is Lord! He is sovereign! Blessed Be His Name!!

"Call Unto Me, and I Will Answer Thee..."

I got a message from a church friend just a little bit ago, and Bro. Earl and all them are alright! Praise the Lord!
Austin's computer crashed, and that was their means of communication, so that's why they hadn't gotten in touch with anyone.
Thank you so much everyone who prayed!

Will I Still Love Him?

Sunday Jan. 17 ~

In the movie "Facing the Giants", Grant Taylor asks his childless wife, "If the Lord never gives us children, will you still love him?" At the time, she is unable to answer this question. But after numerous trips to the doctor in one year, all with negative results, she is forced to face the question, but this time is able to say, "I will still love You, Lord. I will still love You."

Those of you that followed my old blog may have read of my desire and prayer for children for my beloved Sunday School teacher and his dear wife. You may have read of the struggle I had, and how I thought I had finally 'let go' of that dream, trusting it to the Lord and His decision.

I hadn't.

In my last post, I told how we've been studying the topic of 'suffering' in Sunday School and Thursday night Bible study, and some of the points we've discussed. Well, there was another one on Thursday besides the ones I mentioned. It was that:

"God has the right, as our Creator, to put us through whatever 'trial' He chooses, and is in no way obligated to give us His reasons (though sometimes in His great kindness, He will)."

During the discussion of this point, Bro. Dennis told of when he and Mrs. Carrie lost their first child. How excited he had been, and then how hard it had been when they had to give it up. All the while he talked he used the same mannerisms and earnestness that he always has whenever he's illustrating some important point he wants us to 'get'. Yet as he looked at each one around the table, including us all in the conversation, there was pain in his eyes, and when they met mine as he went around the table, I could not keep my gaze steady - I could not face those eyes. And I hated myself for it, but I just couldn't; it seemed so... almost heartless to just stare back. He told how the Lord had used that though, and showed him that that baby was really His - He could take it back whenever He wanted; even before they got to see it.
And when they lost the second one, he realized that, though he and Mrs. Carrie suffered, really in a way it was a blessing - for the children. They would never have to suffer pain - they would never know the effects of sin!
Another person made a comment, and the discussion moved on. I glanced back at Bro. Dennis, and then - selfishly - almost wished I hadn't. He was looking down, studying something in his hand, and I'd never seen him look as tired as he did right then. He's become one of my 'Heroes of the Faith', and for a moment I shrank from my own pain of seeing him hurt. I closed my eyes and wished that I could just get up, go outside, and stand and cry with only the stars looking. But I couldn't, and the questions, answers, Bible verses, and discussion was of course still going on around me. I forced my brain back into it's flow, even as my mind rebuked me quietly: "What are all these lessons on suffering accomplishing if you're totally missing the point?! Here the Biblical answers are being presented all around you, and you're stuck back on the subject: suffering! Aren't you paying attention?"
So the Lord helped me to force the whole thought and it's pain aside for a while, and enjoy the rest of the evening.
But tonight I wondered if the subject was still on Bro. Dennis's mind, because in his sermon he brought in alot of the points we had discussed.

Trissy and I went a little early tonight (we hope to do a trio with Lindy, and needed to practice) so I had my car to drive back to our house in. And as I drove, I cried. Because I felt like the Lord had put that question in my mind. All along I'd thought it was just a matter of His timing - He would give them children, but when He got ready. So I was able to 'give it up'. And that was hard enough, but I could do it - after all, they were still coming right?
But what if they're not? What if they don't? Will I still love Him? And I cry because I can't answer that question.

If the Lord chooses to never give Bro. Dennis and Mrs. Carrie children; if He doesn't send Bro. Earl and Mrs. Shannen and Austin back to me, will I be able to stand the spiritual shock? Will I still love Him?

That's scary. Lord help me!

Please Pray For My Pastor's Family

Sunday Jan. 17 ~

Bro. Earl and Mrs. Shannen have gone to visit their younger son Austin, who is a short-term missionary in a very dangerous part of the world. Bro. Jeremiah (Bro. Earl's brother) preached in the morning, and Bro. Dennis (who is Bro. Earl and Mrs. Shannen's older son, for those of you who don't know) preached in the evening.

Morn.~

We heard from 'the travelers' when they got there safely, but no one has heard from them since and it's been several days. They were going to try to make contact back to us as often as possible during their visit... Danger is a very real thing where they are.

Eve. ~

Still no word from them. Alot of us are very concerned.

Thurs. Night College Bible Study - the lesson

So anyway, the lesson was titled, "The Stress of Crisis" It was on suffering, reasons for suffering, and how we do, and should, react to it. Strange, but this topic has seemed to come up alot lately in different situations, conversations, and lessons at church:

In our Sunday School college class we are studying Appologetics - how to defend your faith. It has been an excellent and extremely challenging topic, spanning several months and requiring deep thinking (Bro. Dennis loves to challenge us to use our minds! So much of what's taught in churches now is so watered-down and shallow). Recently Bro. Dennis decided to have each student pick a controversial topic from a list he compiled, study it, do research, and then present what we found to the rest of the class. One of the young men had the topic "Why would a supposedly loving God allow or inflict suffering?" We ended up taking three weeks on this one, instead of just one. Some of the truths/points we discussed:

1) We (humans) deserve NOTHING from God!

2) We shouldn't ask, "Why am I having to go through suffering?" but instead, "Why am I given so many blessings?"

3) God allows and causes everything that happens, for a reason.

4) God will always get glory in everything, and if we choose, we can be privaleged to be the ones to give it to Him.

5) If we are saved and going through difficulties, He may be using those things to show His power in our lives.

I wish I could go into detail right now about all the different paths we took in these discussions and the verses we studied that led us to these deductions. Maybe someday I will.

But anyway, this Sun. School study is just one area where the subject of suffering and why God allows it has come up recently. In our lesson Thursday night, we continued with some of the above points, but also (since there were more of us, therefore more lives and experiences to give input) some new ones. Like:

1) Sometimes we are guilty of, perhaps subconsciously yet intentionally, prolonging our own suffering simply because our selfish nature enjoys the pity.

2) Often our suffering could be significantly alleviated if we would follow the Bible's advice when it says to share our burdens. We could often have our heartaches eased if we sought the help, advice, counsel, or just the understanding of a Christian brother or sister.

We talked about how the Lord gets glory out of everything, even when evil people accomplish great wickedness, and we just can't see how that could bring God glory. But the Bible says that even Pharaoh was allowed to rule over and persecute the children of Israel, so that His power might be revealed.

We went alot farther, but there is no way I can capture for you how deep we got into it, and what a blessing it was to be in the midst of a group of young people who had gathered just for the purpose of encouraging one another in the Word, and to learn more of God and His plan! I think I could almost say though, that this was about the best lesson I think we've had so far!

Thurs. Night College Bible Study - before the lesson

*I jotted this entry down on a piece of scratch paper 'cause I didn't have access to a computer at the time. So I'm putting the actual writing date at the beginning, but the post date is today's. In the future, if I've got to compose a post on paper before I can post it here, I will put the actual date of when I wrote it at the top of the post.*

Fri. Jan. 15 ~

So anyway, since it had been such a long time since we'd had a 'real' Bible study meeting as a group, everyone was really 'in top form' so to speak, and as everyone was arriving, the good humor and banter was going strong. Bro. Mike, Justice, Oliver, and Landon had all gone Monday to a three-day missions meeting about eight hours away, and were supposed to get back just in time for Bible study. They ended up being a little late, so as we waited on them, we were all just sitting around the long table "talking life", and just generally giving each other a good-natured hard time :D ! It was great! Trissy 'got' Bro. Dennis good at one point. He is such a jokester, and he's always waiting 'til she gets within hearing range and then he'll get his fake seriousness face on and then will start just really lamenting to whoever he was talking to, over the fact of how she's such a trouble maker and he can't get her to see how important it is to be respectful in Sunday School and all this... Trissy is about the most opposite of that you can imagine! But it's hilarious, and she loves it just as much as he does, she just hasn't always got a good comback ready. So anyway, last night we were just sitting around visiting, and she was going to ask him something, and so to address him she of course began, "Bro. Dennis..." Now, most, if not all, of the other young people just call him "Dennis", but we've always been taught to address adults (especially ones in positions of authority) as "Mr." or "Mrs." or, if it's a Christian man, as "Bro." But anyway, I guess most of the other kids just don't think about it. When Trissy said that, Camille (Bro. Mike's daughter) said sort of in a questioning voice, "Bro. Dennis?" and kind of gave Trissy a puzzled look. So Trissy decided that she would "get" him (she knew he was still listening with one ear, even with the other conversations going on at the same time) so she just piped right up and replied, "Well yeah, I've always tried to be respectful of old guys" Oh boy! everybody howled at that, 'cause they knew she had gotten him good! and that he would think of something to come back with... and it's a never-ending circle of friendly 'ribbing'.

This is getting off the subject just a little, but seriously, Bro. Dennis really has been such a blessing to my family in this church. He has such a heart of fun, but also of gold; and he knows so much about the Bible and how to defend your faith. He has taught Trissy and me so much just in this past year about what really matters in life, and that Christians can be CHRISTIANS (like Christ) without feeling like it's inappropriate to crack a smile or enjoy their Salvation!

So Bro. Mike, Oliver, Justice, and Landon finally got there and we got started on our lesson.

*I'll tell about it in my next post, Lord willing*

A Look Back - 2009

Well, the year 2009 was certainly one of excitement, changes, and learning. I had no idea how many things the Lord would allow to happen, and then use to teach me so many valueable lessons. Here is a brief look at each month, and some of the happenings of each:

January of course started a new year. New year, old plans, and a fresh start at trying to see them become reality.

In February the Lord blessed us with the reason I originally started blogging in the first place - He led us to a wonderful, Godly church where He is praised and His people are taught His Word. This first year is hopefully just the start of a long story in this place. And even though (when I post about it) my feeble attempts to share the joyful, wondering, learning times with you are so frail, I hope somehow you can get a glimpse of the Glory He is sharing with me through these experiences. In February we also celebrated our grandparents' (Mom's parents' - our only living set of grandparents) 65th wedding anniversary!

March, April, and May saw us busily preparing for and celebrating Trissy's graduation! She was able to "walk" with the other graduates in the large homeschool group we are a part of, and we were blessed by all the support, and the professional yet Christ-honoring air with which the whole event was conducted.
Also in May, my grandfather had two heart attacks in one week (!) and so started almost an entire summer/fall of Trissy and me living with our grandparents, helping where ever and when ever we were needed, and learning many great lessons about fellowship, service, and the blessing of living close to family.

In June Trissy and I were privaleged to go along with two of our cousins to a Bible youth camp for a week. We worked hard, learned alot, made some new friends, and came back really refreshed by the experience.

July we of course celebrated the Independence our country still is blessed with and we pray continues, though perhaps we are loosing it even as the days tick by. Also our grandmother fell and broke her arm, essentially handicapping herself for several months as it healed, and our grandfather too, since she is really the one who cared for both of them. Trissy and I were glad to be available and able to continue staying with them and helping with even the little things it is so hard to do with one hand. All four of us (despite the painful arm) had alot of fun during this time, for we were basically "stuck" with each other, and though we just live right down the road from them, it seems we don't really get to spend enough time together.

August was perhaps the bussiest and most eventful month of our year! We said goodbye for a time to our pastor's younger son as he left for a dangerous mission field. I started working at the Christian school our church started, and I also began college. Trissy (being the most 'free') became the main helper for our grandparents (though I still spent nights there, and helped however time allowed me to) and took over most of my "chores" at our house as well, since I had to devote such large amounts of time to school and homework.

September means Fair Time! This year we were not able to participate to near the extent we usually do, but I did manage to have a small group of crafts and creations to enter in the County Fair, several of which went on to State!

October - Fall is in the air! My most favorite time of year! Our grandmother finally was able, after several set-backs and dissapointments, to have her cast taken off and become the Queen of her own house once again! We were glad her arm was healed so well, but in a way too, it was sad since it meant we didn't really have an excuse to continue living with them, and had to get back to our neglected house (which had, as Mom likes to say, "Gone to seed" while we were otherwise occupied ;D ). Also, District Fair was going on, and like at County, I was thankfully able to find some entries to send. The fairs have always been, not only so much fun, but also a nice opportunity to earn a little money from 'placing' as well! I also started blogging, I believe on Oct. 30th!

In November there was Thanksgiving, the Bible Conference, and reajusting to 'normal' life, though it could arguably be asked, "Is life ever truly 'normal' ?!" :D

December - Christmas and all it's symbolism, events, celebrations and enjoyments. Our trip to TX to visit Mom's sister, and then the New Year is here!

May our 2010 be, perhaps not so hectic ;), but certainly as valuable and rich!