More Thanks

61. Time to "get away from it all".
62. Johnny Rockets chocolate milkshakes
63. Cool water on a hot day
64. Airconditioning
65. Organized taxi systems
66. Chinese take out
67. Naps
68. Mom and Dad waiting at the airport
69. The safe ending of a long flight
70. Blue bell ice cream
71. Blue bell ice cream
72. Blue bell ice cream :-)
73. Shopping with my Mom and my daughter
74. My boys trailing after Papa
75. My dad laughing with my boys
76. A whole night's sleep
77. Someone else making breakfast for me
78. A really good pair of jeans
79. The perfect pair of shoes
80. Playing Apples to Apples with our kiddos

One Incredible Journey

"The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made..." Psalm 145: 8

What a journey we are on.

And I don't mean the one with suitcases and different beds and borrowed cars and hotels and church reporting...

I mean The Journey.

The One with Him. Our Lord.

I have visited this Create Post screen in the last month and after some minutes of head scratching and brain searching, the screen remained blank. But recently, I was given the honor of standing before His People in a small suburb in Washington State and share of the Lord's faithfulness in our lives. As I shared with those sweet souls, I realized exactly what I needed to say here.

Look with me at some verses that are challenging my heart right now.

"Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saing "Lord save us! We're going to drown!" He replied, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?" Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm." Matt 8: 24-26

Jesus was sleeping. What an interesting thing. Has Jesus ever been sleeping through a storm in your life?
With waves rolling and fear rising, the disciples woke Jesus up and his response to them was, "Why are you so afraid?"

Waves have been rolling around us lately. And as I've clung to the side of the boat and screamed for Someone to "wake up and do something!" the waves have kept rolling. I have longed for the Masterful Rebuke and the "completely calm"...but I'm still gasping under the waves.

One recent Sunday afternoon, following worship and lunch, our family settled in for a rest. I was exhausted and promptly fell into a deep sleep. Throughout my nap I was aware of the children shaking me on the shoulder requesting food or judgment for an erring brother :-), but Jeff valiantly deterred their requests so I could stay asleep. My body was resting. I chose not to wake up completely because their Daddy was on the scene and had things under control.

Maybe Jesus slept through the storm for the same reason. He knew Who was in control and that eventually there would be peace. Either now or later. The storm would not effect the outcome.

The squall would only serve to measure faith. "You of little faith!"

Sigh. It is my deepest heart's desire, that as waves wash over my boat, my faith will be found to be strong.

And what exactly does that look like?

Not quitting?

Not despairing?

Confident, in even a resting Savior.

He will wake up. And His Voice alone can still the storm.

"While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep.
And Saul was there giving approval to his death." Acts 7:59- 8:1

The stones were hitting that innocent man in the head and he spoke... forgiveness.

Just as our Lord, in the middle of deep humilation, unjust claims, and death proclaimed forgiveness, not judgment.

At the moment of attack. While feeling the pain.

In the most excruciating times of life, human nature longs to call fire down on the offender's head not speak words of mercy.

But these men, Jesus and Stephen...

Their forgiveness, their mercy coincided with their greatest physical and emotional pain.

And, friends, as if that wasn't challenging enough, the last sentence gives me much pause.

Saul was giving approval to this brutal killing.

Those who attack you or stand by in approval as others attack, may be God's next miracle. God's chosen one to carry His message far and wide. The person whose faith and submission to God will effect others for generations.

What in the world are we supposed to do with that tidbit?! Does God expect us to remember this when we are angry?

This man who vehemently opposed Christ's Beloved was pursued by Christ Himself and redeemed.

It is not difficult to think of my offenders as being pursued :-)...

But for redemption?

Forgive. God is all about that word. We cannot do any less than our Master and expect the storm to ever cease.

"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him." 2 Cor 2:14

We walk with the winner. Even "as we walk thtrough the valley of the shadow of death..." Triumph. Confident. Heads held high. He has won. Therefore, we, who are His, always have won. We are a part of the triumphal procession. Whether or not the world around us recognizes Him directly, they will not escape His Aroma.

"Were not the Cushites and Libyans a mighty army with great numbers of chariots and horsemen? Yet when you relied on the Lord he delivered them into your hand. For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." 2 Chron 16:8-9

And finally, brought to this. No matter how big the "army", God is looking at the heart. My heart. Isn't that really all we have to choose about. Other peoples' actions, words or choices are far from our control or even our influence sometimes. But our own hearts. That's where we choose. His way or ours. Submitted or personally controlled and filled. Full or empty. Living for Forever or grabbing what we want for now.

As His Knowing Eyes search through the earth, what does He find here? In me.

Fear? Forgiveness? Triumph?

Himself?

Oh Father, the storms rage in our lives on many fronts. But You Never Fail.

God prevails.

Where waves often roll over our boats and stones sometimes fly at our heads and Righteous Men stand in approval of our "deaths"and armies seem mighty and overwhelming.

God calls us to rest, trust, forgive, guard our own hearts...

And believe.

Because...

He. Has. It. All. Under. Control.

He even steps up to fill us and accomplish these ongoing tasks for us when we cannot.

Father, how can You be So Good? So patient.

Receive Your Glory Mighty Jehovah.

The darkness that threatens us only serves to more fully contrast All the Goodness You are. I am so amazed by You.

Oh, So Very...

Thankful.

And here is a list to prove it...

31. Hot fudge cake.
32.Ty's visit
33. Silas singing "Lord I Lift Your Name on High"
34. The first cup of steaming coffee in the morning.
35. Help with the dishes.
36. Isaac's laugh
37. Cuddling with Anaiah
38. Prayer time with the team
39. Sleep
40. A definite plan
41. Hope
42. Cool weather and a hot cup of tea
43. Pale pink nail polish
44. Iced sugar cookies
45. Respite at the close of the day
46. Checking on our sleeping children
47. Listening to Isaac read
48. Reading Kinley's creative writing
49. Alex's love of cardboard boxes
50. Silas opening his birthday presents
51. Succesful potty training
52. Jotham's voice on the phone
53. Furlough plans
54. Paper plates
55. The day after a migraine headache
56. Jeff and the kids doing the dishes
57. New bed linens
58. Baxter
59. An organized pantry
60. Support and love from family

God's Perfect Gifts

Something I have learned on this foreign field adventure is that God will not fail.

In mid 1999, Jeff and I had hit a stride. We were four years on the Uganda mission field. We had weathered the initial waves of culture stress. We had endured the rebel crisis. And we were parents of an adorable baby girl. Our first furlough had been a blessing and upon arrival back in Uganda, I felt at home. It was a milestone.

Following our annual ladies retreat for East African Missionaries, I had committed to praying for a friend who was hoping to become pregnant with her first. As I committed to pray, I was unkowningly pregnant with our second. I began to suspect my situation and the nausea overcame me. Only this time around, I had a toddler to chase. It was a tough time.

One afternoon, Jeff came home from town and informed me that he had met a German girl who was in Ft Portal for a year to work at the Babies Home. He said she was eager to fellowship with Christians and that he had invited her for dinner.

Our first dinner with Caroline was great, but the conversation was a bit difficult. Caroline’s English was limited and my German was non-existent. Except for asking for a Diet Coke, I don’t speak much of the language of Germany.

Thankfully, Caroline excelled at language skills. Her English improved incredibly (really, how do you do that?!?) and over the next year, she became a soulmate. She supported me through the pregnancy and loved on Alex when he was born. She met with our church weekly. Her bright spirit and encouraging disposition lit up our lives and pushed us on.

She and I met weekly to pray and visit. The gift she was to me really defies the words on this blog.

Women need women to sound off to. To dream with. To share. To drink coffee with and share stories...

She watched movies with me, went on road trips to keep me company. She and I joked about interesting cultural issues we met and shared sarcasm over life in the third world.

I needed this fun friendship so much. She was a gift to me. Saving me from the mundane insanity of daily childcare and home management in a far off place with few or little distractions.

I was sad to see her go when her time in Ft Portal ended. But God had things for her to do. She moved back to Germany, married her prince and God has blessed her with two lovely little ones. I know she is serving Him well.

Her precious ones allowed her to come back and visit us recently. She arrived into our container chaos. But as I came to expect, she jumped right in, served and blessed.

How sweet the fellowship of those who love Him.



I can’t wait until Heaven--- no language barriers!

Ich liebe dich, darling Calo!

Come back anytime…but bring those precious ones too!

The Blessing of Fellowship

We were so delighted to welcome Brian, Kristin and Grace Robinson for a visit during March. The Robinsons are members of our overseeing congregation and dear friends. They brought with them loads of goodies and tons of love from our Glenwood family. As usual, when we welcome Glenwood-ites here, it made us long for our Tyler home.

Brian and Kristin are fellow sojourners in our parenting journey. They have four offspring all around the ages of our own. I find an understanding ear in Kristin. She supports, encourages and believes in me. All Mommies need that.

On furlough, we always enjoy sharing a meal with the Robinsons in their home. Our conversation usually turns to missions and the Robinson’s desire to participate personally in foreign work. We’ve prayed for them and loved sharing “the call” with them.

How delighted we were to hear that God’s call was reeling them in. Not just whispering to them anymore! We pray for them as they take on a huge endeavor…moving four kids and a life across an ocean. Let me just say, this is not something for the faint of heart.

But, also, let me say, “Brian & Kristin, you can do this! Because YOU will never walk this path alone. He doesn’t call you down a path and then abandon you. He will never fail.”

Thank you for doing all those dishes, folding my laundry (we are soul mates now!) and unloading (Brian) so much stuff without a break. Chaos of the container overtook us at the end, but your bright spirits and willingness to jump in and help saved my sanity. Truly. I hope you found the blessings you needed for this time as well. We love you and are so proud of you for your choices and your courage.

We are also VERY thrilled that you will be on our side of the ocean! Come see us anytime. I promise I won’t always make you do the dishes! 

Many thanks to Madeline, Samuel, Aaron and all the Grandparents who made this trip possible. Thank you for sending your precious Mom, Dad and sister to us. We pray they carried blessing and encouragement back to you.

A Big Metal Box--Conclusion

It arrived.

After much angst, much waiting and many, many months,that big metal box finally rolled into our compound. I could hardly believe it.



A frantic afternoon, evening, night and early morning ensued. Just as we opened the doors, God opened His clouds. The rain poured and poured. But we couldn't stop. The truck driver wanted to go home and the box had to be emptied in order for him to do that. So we worked. And carried. And hauled.

And got very, very wet. The Martin's goods were to be kept in our car port which very quickly became The Muddy River of Destruction. Jeff rallied the troops and laid metal trusses on the ground to stack the Martin's treasures on. Our goods were hauled to our veranda and inside our living room. Kristin (visiting from Tyler) cooked food, pointed people to the bottled water and managed to keep a path cleared through our overflowing home. She also, very capably, held our dirty dishes at bay. No small feat my friends. No small feat.

I walked miles in and around our home as did every member of the Unloading Posse. Every box...every item...was rejoiced over and admired. Comfy furniture, camping gear, home organization items, a real American mattress...all bring pure joy! Even the drum set that somehow made it's home in the corner of my living room, was welcomed with much rejoicing! (Don't be surprised Jana dear, when Em receives Bagpipes for Christmas from Auntie Cheryl this year!:-)) Each box was like Christmas. My kitchen and pantry were filled to overflowing. MacnCheese, Dr Pepper, canned spaghetti sauce and pie fillings...

It was 2AM when the last crate came off the truck. A very tired team of men succeeded in emptying our big metal box. We would have high-fived if anyone had one ounce of energy left. :-)

There are no words to adequately thank all who worked to make this shipment a reality. Charles and Joan Colwell, who served us over and above. Jana, Kristin and Lori for shopping and buying so very well! For all our Glenwood family who gave so generously to purchase the church tent and chairs. Also our loved ones in Tyler who snuck on goodies and helped pack. For Andrew, Jeff and Ryan and their exhaustive efforts on both sides of the ocean. And finally for the team of guys (Brian, Bob, Peter, Jeff, Andrew, Derrick and co.) who unloaded and unloaded and unloaded that wet, rainy Saturday.



We love and thank you all.

May God use these tools to rejuvenate us, further His kingdom growth and bring honor to His Name.

Praise!!!

A Big Metal Box--Part Two

About 5 years and an Airplane Saga later (Airplane Saga to be shared at a later date:-))another container became a reality for the Ft Portal mission.

Through a "Master-full" feat of endurance, my "never say die" hubby had a repaired airplane engine that had to be shipped. In the same months, the Martin family had made their commitment to serve in Ft Portal and needed to get their household items here.

The shipment took shape.

All the logistics are daunting for such a shipment. The cost of the container itself and the fees for moving it hither and yon are expensive, so it is inherent in every missionary heart that each tiny bit of space be used effectively. We are paying dearly for it...we should fill it well.

On our last furlough, we worked with the Martins on preliminary plans. We discussed companies and costs. We made lists and shared ideas. Then we began to budget.

We enlisted a wonderful couple to gather our items in Tyler, TX. Charlie and Joan offered their time, know how and storage space to help us with the container. We flew back to Uganda thankful for their willingness to help.

As the months drew near for the actual packing of the container, we began to discuss our being present for the daunting task. We felt that Jeff would be a blessing to completing the process, so we bought one ticket and sent Jeff back to the States.

He, Andrew and Andrew's cousin spent three sleepless days and nights shopping, filling, building, organizing and securing a world of physical blessings into one big metal box. As the box rolled down to the nearest sea port, the guys crashed hard, weary to the bone. Their efforts were successful and the box set sail for our foreign homes.

Within six weeks we received word that the box was on African soil. We all rejoiced, but Jeff and I set our minds to wait. We knew, now would be the hardest part.

The container moved somewhat smoothly through Mombasa clearing and customs. We received regular updates (which impressed us considerably) of the clearing process. By early November, the container had reached Kampala.

And then the real fun began. We were optimistically hopeful that we could get the box by Christmas. There were some treasures for the kiddos that would look lovely under the tree. So we hoped and set our hands to the task.

It is indescribable what took place next. Derrick and his uncle and Jeff began to go from office to office to office to office.... from desk to desk to desk...from person to person to person. We would be told The Process. We would set out to complete The Process. Upon reaching completion we would told that we must begin again. On another Process.

After several rounds of The Process Shuffle we were informed that we owed alot of money for taxes. Alot.

Gulp.

We've been living in this foreign land for awhile now and have well honed our reactions to such atrocious bits of news.

We simply inquired of The Next Process. The Process for People Who Cannot Afford Alot of Money for Taxes.

We were respectful. We were resolute. And we began to follow still more procedures.

Month after month passed. Reams of paper were filled with letters and rubber stamps, then carried from one official to another. Derrick basically moved to Kampala for awhile. And Jeff wisely navigated us all through a maze that could have very easily had no end. We had no idea, really, where the maze would take us. We just continued turning the corners, overcoming the obstacles and asking for direction.

In mid March, just a flow of visitors began to grace our home, we received word that we had, in fact, reached the end of the Process line.

The final papers were signed. We could bring the box home.

A Big Metal Box--Part One

When we first moved to Uganda, most living supplies were not easily available in this land locked country. In the capital city (about 7 hours drive from us at the time) we shopped at two smallish "supermarkets" that carried Kenya made items and we bought our meat from one of two nice butchers in the capital city. Here in our own town, meat could be purchased live and butchered yourself or bought in the fly-infested meat markets of our local shops.

Larger items like refrigerators, stoves, living room chairs, beds, dressers...all were either not available, very used and broken or super expensive.

We were advised, as we planned to move our life across the ocean, to purchase some goods and send them on a sea container. A sea container is virtually a big metal box. It is filled at your home in America, trucked to the nearest sea port and then shipped to Mombasa, Kenya. Where it is then loaded on a truck or a train and brought across Kenya and Uganda into Kampala where it is stored.

In Kampala, you must clear the container with 500,000 different people. (oh, I kid) After the final person signs the final document, you can load the box back onto a truck and have it driven to your home for unloading.

In 1995, we shared a 20 ft container with another family. We had 10 ft of space. We brought our wedding gifts, a propane stove, a propane refrigerator, and a propane chest freezer. We also brought a couch, loveseat and an old recliner that was my Grandpa's. Jeff had two motorcycles and my sweet Granddaddy had fixed us up with every lawn and small engine article available to man (chainsaw, weedeater, lawnmower, tiller, generator).

We did not receive our container on this side until 9 months after our arrival. Nine months of sleeping on the floor, sitting on the floor and struggling through meal prep from scratch with only two burners to work with.

Our landlord loaned us an electric refrigerator for those nine months, but after our first trip to the capital to stock up on meat, we returned home to 5 days of absolutely NO POWER...which translated to $50 of precious meat, spoiled and ruined.

Jeff and I became vegetarians at that time. Not by choice really. Just by necessity. We ate alot of soups. And we longed for fajitas from home. As we enjoyed our vegetable soup, Jeff and I would talk about American food. For hours. Then we would cry. (Or I would cry. Jeff would just look sad and hungry. :-))

We made it, though. And when that shipment arrived we rejoiced. Jeff and his Dad (who was visiting us at the time) drove across Uganda twice with loads of our treasures. We began the agonizing work of setting everything up. Propane tanks had to be secured and fittings reworked with no stocked hardware store to help out.

Over the years of adjusting, settling in and having a family we were blessed by the items from that first shipment. We did need to purchase locally made items, as well as using what we brought from the States. We purchased beds with foam mattresses and had shelves and dressers made by carpenters in the area. The shelves and cabinets proved to be difficult endeavors. Wet wood became our nemesis, warping furniture beyond recognition. We borrowed some furniture items for our babies and scoured the Sale Lists posted in Kampala by departing expats for other items we needed.

Every missionary or expatriot that would move back to the their homeland would put out a sale list. Such sale lists were gold. From the departing missionaries one could score American bath mats, transformers, baby furniture, TVs and other treasures. Granted, the items would be well used and worn...but gold, nonetheless.

Always, in the back of our mind, a "if we had access to a container" list grew.

When the Lord led us to Glenwood church of Christ this mental wish list had grown long. In one of our first meetings with Glenwood's mission committee, they asked about helping us with a container. The idea was suggested that they buy the container, park it in their parking lot and fill it over a period of time. A list of desired goods was requested of us. We were stunned. We eventually did make a list and continued to dream of another shipment.

Hoping

It is amazing to me how very much I can miss this piece of cyberspace.

I have had posts sitting in "edit" for some weeks now. But I have not been able to sit down and get them posted.

Tonight, as the clock nears midnight, I am finally getting back to this place I love.

Blogland.

Rumor has it that Wireless World is in my future. More frequent posting could be anticipated.

I hope.

It's hard to dive back in to a journal when I haven't been posting regularly. Lots of thoughts, struggles, obstacles and victories have happened in the meantime and all those events change me a little. Stretch me. Pain me. Make me grow.

I would love to share more about this season of ministry in our lives and I do believe that someday this time of struggle will become blessing to others who are striving in a similar environment.

I hope.

But for now, just for a time, all the ponderings must simmer a bit. Some seasonings of life are bitter, but if they stew long enough, their flavor together with others enhance a dish to sublime.

I hope.

I've been clinging to this verse for the last few weeks. A good inspiration for a very tired heart.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13

I'm anticipating the "overflow" as I learn, still, to put my trust in him.

Joy and peace to you!

These Ten Things

Today, I ask my Father for these ten things for you, Kinley.

1. A passionate love for Jesus that will never be quenched or quieted.
2. A relationship with Jehovah God that you will never outlive.
3. A confident consuming of his Holy Spirit accompanied by all the gifts His Spirit provides.
4. Sister friends to giggle with, dream with and trust in.
5. Endurance to work through the deepest struggles life will take you through.
6. Resilience and strength to "get back up again".
7. Laughter!
8. Wise mentors in the faith.
9. Best friend relationships with each of your brothers.
10. The confidence that in your Mom and Dad, you will always find an open door to communicate, find affirmation and trust.



And oh so much more, dear one.

My hopes for your life and your heart soar with my love for you.

Your ability to connect with people...your joy of knowing others...your delight in exressing your self artisitcally...your willingness to help...your unbelievable cinammon coffee cake...the smiles, the hugs, the laugh...

All fill our life with His beauty. His beauty in you.



I cannot believe it has been 10 years already. I am overwhelmingly thankful for each and every one.


Here's to more, beautiful girl. Here's to more...

Ty's Visit

Recently, while perusing pictures from our early years on the mission field, I was struck by how frumpy I chose to look.
I really didn’t know all that much about being a missionary, but by the looks of the photos, I had decisively chosen to “look the part”. I think I owned only denim. And everything was large and oversized. Functional, yes. But not so very attractive.

There came a day- a glorious moment, really-when the Lord in His merciful love, revealed to me that missionaries can be stylish. Hip.

Susan delivered this message. With exuberance. With grace. And with a Texas accent. Glory be! A language I understood.

I was staying with her family in a small town in Kenya, and she asked me to ride to the grocery store with her. On the way, she zipped into “one of my favorite stores, Girl!” and bought us matching pairs of hoop, beaded earrings. They weren’t frumpy. They weren’t functional. They were girly. Dangly. And revolutionary. I put them on and she told me they looked “Great!” Then she talked me into cutting all my hair off.

I was caught up in all the dangly, beaded excitement.

For the few days I spent with Susan, I perused magazines, heard her thoughts on fashion and realized, there was more to this missionary life than I first expected.

There was fun loving, exuberant life! Susan introduced that to me. Oh how I needed it.

I was reminded of this moment several weeks ago as we hosted Ty in our home. Ty was five years old during my initial visit in the Hayes home. We played blocks together. And Jeff and I were blessed to babysit Ty and his brothers while Kirk and Susan went away for a night. We played on the trampoline, watched movies and I watched the boys wrestle my husband. Good times.

Through those early years on the field, as Jeff and I adjusted to marriage and life in East Africa, Ty’s parents mentored and encouraged us to press on and thrive.

Not to mention, cut off all our hair and wear dangly ear bobs.

(And eat Ethiopian food without crying.)

For me personally, Susan's joy in people and life in the Lord was always a much needed reprieve. In her I found a sister/friend. A sister who had great style. Praise the Lord, He provides! [My flesh and blood sister also has great style, but she was miles away during these frumpy days...and I needed help!]



Our time this February with grown-up Ty was such a gift. Watching him with our boys, reliving Kenya days over coffee and hearing his faith through his prayers and sharing, encouraged our hearts in a much needed way.

So much of our home and family life has been shaped and inspired by Godly families like the Hayes.

Thanks for being with us, Ty. You are always welcome here!

Four?!?!?

I’ve shared before how shocked and dismayed I was when baby number four was discovered in my womb. I was a little incredulous that I would have FOUR children. I wasn’t sure I was up for that.

(For the record, I still wonder sometimes...:-))

But I digress. Four is the magic number this year for baby #4.



Silas enjoyed his first honorary Birthday Breakfast outing with Mom and Dad this year.


It feels like yesterday that we started this tradition with Kinley. And now we are to Silas. He was very proud and elated to be alone with us. He loaded his plate with everything offered, but only managed two bites of toast. He was too excited and busy to eat. This is the story of our Silas’ life. Excited and busy.

Silas loves to run. I am happy about this, because it is a very constructive way to release the barrels of energy stored inside his four year old frame. He told me several days ago, that, “someday, when I am big I will be in a big race and I will run faster dan everybody else and pass ‘em and win de race! Dat will be so great, Mom!” Oh yes it will. Just ask your Dad.

His other obsession of late, is his children. Yes, you heard me correctly. Any time we pray as a family or at church and we ask Silas what he wants to pray about, he says, “My children.” Our Ugandan friends don’t quite know how to take this.

Silas’ children live in Kampala. They have a house, a helicopter, two airplanes and on occasion, live among purple, yellow and green zebras , unicorns and other exotic creatures. He prays for them when they are sick. He plans for when we will all see them. He creates stories about their existence daily.

I pray for them regularly. Because, when I feel him cuddle against me at nap time as we read Take Me to the Zoo for the thousandth time, I realize…his dream of children will all too soon be a reality. Just look at where I am sitting. Prayers are the greatest covering for such a dream. If we can instill that in him now, he and those precious children just might have a chance. More than that…a Lord.

But,well before the “children-dream” becomes a reality, we have set our sites on a fantastic fourth year!



I am positive, it will NOT be boring!



What a gift he is to us!

An Update of Mammoth Proportions

Well, it IS high time.

I know.

I am about to inundate you with information. I am posting my thoughts and reflections on the happenings of the past few months. There is much to tell. I've broken it down into several posts. My reflecting goes back to Christmas time. I will not linger there long as we are already at Easter. But there are some noteworthy events that I need to ruminate in writing.

Thanks for checking back in. I pray all is well with you and yours.

Happy Reading!

(Please scroll down to see the posts.)

Faith Quest

When we began the preparation stage for this year’s Faith Building experience, I wondered if we would have the stamina to pull through. It’s been a tough few months for us. We are weary and tired to our bones.

But, alas. Faith Quest came. It went on. And…it was sensational.




God was there. So, of course, things happened. Fifteen precious ones put on Christ in baptism!



The youth listened, praised, shared and grew.


For several years now, I have been in throes of it all. Sensing it. Feeling it. Experiencing it.

This year, I was more in the Faith of it all.

Believing. Hoping and Trusting that He would do all He has promised whether I’m up to the tasks or not.

We gave it all we had…and He managed to redeem that for His glory.




He is good like that.

Many thanks to the Faith Quest Team who are blogging some of their thoughts and pictures here and here and here (sorry MT…I may have just upped your blog traffic!)



Many thanks to the missionaries in Uganda who support this effort.




And many thanks to the wonderful youth who came, laid down burdens and fell deeper in love with our Lord. May you never outlive your love for Him. He is All.

Smore Fest 2008

We praise God for all the amazing people He brings into the lives of our children. Here is one great example. You may know him by his regular ‘ole practical name…but around here, we call him “Uncle Smore”.

He brings the goods.


We build a fire.


We cook.




And we eat.



A good time is had by all.



Thank you, Uncle Smore, for investing in the hearts of our kiddos and our family. We love you! (And we can’t wait to share some of the fun with Auntie Smore around a campfire too!)

"Blest Be the Tie that Binds"

On a furlough in 2000, Jeff and I were able to attend Lectureship at Abilene Christian University. During a leisurely stroll through the booths set up at Lectureship, I came across a Boy Scout display. The man who was standing by the presentation saw my interest and asked if I had any sons. I pointed to my stroller holding Baby Alex and said it would be awhile before we had a Scout. I added that my husband was an Eagle Scout as well as his two brothers. The man, whom I had never seen before said, "Do you mean the Cashes?!?!?"

One recent Sunday morning, Jeff left the house for church before the rest of us. Alex and Isaac came into the room and asked for my help with their ties. I explained that I didn't actually know how to tie a tie and that Dad was already gone. I did give it a shot, but my efforts only produced a funny twisted mess.

Alex, after watching my feeble attempts, took Isaac's hand and marched purposefully from the room, throwing over his shoulder, "I have an idea!"

A few minutes later, this is what I found.



Alex proudly displayed his two successes at grown-up ties...
Achieved by following the intstructions of his Boy Scout Handbook!

But. Of. Course.

Cashes are synonomous with Scouting. Apparently, everyone knows this. Including strangers at ACU Lectureship. :-)

How to Eat a Cookie

Smile with charm.


Go for the bite.


Oh so very good!


Kiss it!


by Silas
age 4

The Decorating of the Cookies

Christmas isn't official for me without iced sugar cookies. I still use Mamma's recipe and every moment of the mixing, rolling, cutting and eating is filled with memories of her hands, her voice and her time spent with me in her kitchen.

This year we decorated with the help and company of Jotham and Anaiah.




Jotham and Silas were more interested in tasting than creating.








This is an annual tradition around our home. I have a picture of Kinley every year of her life decorating cookies at Christmas.



Tradition!!!!

Eight Years and Counting

December 24, 2007 found us celebrating an outdoor swimming party for the eight year old in our lives. (Life on the equator has its perks…) As we approached the pool for the party he said, “THIS is the best birthday EVER!!!”

His much anticipated day went off without a hitch or a even a stitch. Though Uncle Andrew’s dive threatened both of those sentiments.

For about two weeks Alex had spoken, dreamed and prayed for nothing else but his day. The day. The day of the great Swimming Birthday Party. And after all the apprehension, cake eating, song singing, present opening and swimming…Alex announced that his day had in fact been a great success.


I think that is fitting. One great success deserves another.



I am so proud of this boy. And so thankful for all God has created in Him.



I love you, Alex!

A Word About the Spotlight

The term "spotlight" signifies something that is the focus of attention. Many times, when we think of the Spotlight, we think of performers. Stars. Glory.

In truth, some of the most amazing acts in this world go unnoticed. No fancy setting. No snazzy outfits. Often with much sweat and some tears.

This week will see the completion of nearly two decades of "un-spotlighted" service for one West Texas lady.

She has served for many years among a team of folks who work to better the lives of suffering, hurting children.

She has spent these years treading through oceans of tsunami size waves of paperwork and process.

Years of watching injustice and suffering...
Years of frustration and exhausting effort...

Years of doing all she could...

To make something right, in an upside down world.

So much of who I am and what I strive to accomplish is forever grounded in who she is and what she strives to accomplish. She has often wished a "lighter load" for me. And now, I long for a seaons of a "lighter load" for her.

I call her, Mom.

May, our Burden Bearer bless you, Mom, with His sweet rest as you begin this new season of life.

I am so proud of you.

He took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me." Mark 9:36-37

Whew!

Sometimes this homemaking thing runs me over like a truck.

In my head, I have lovely visions of schedules and systems and progress...

But more often than not, I find my self feeling flattened underneath all the undone.

And so we have today.

My task for this morning was to clean our bedroom. I announced it to the children. I set up a video to entertain them. I didn't even take time to shower. Straight to the task.

And then...

There were just a few remaining breakfast dishes to complete. I quickly washed them praising Aimee Jo in my head for tackling the pile earlier and knocking a huge dent in the never ending stack.

After that short task was accomplished, the "entertained" kiddos were already back in the kitchen feigning hunger nigh unto death. I can't remember what I offered them. But I'm pretty sure they weren't happy with it. In the process of filling their cavernous tummies, I realized I hadn't eaten yet today.

I sat to eat my breakfast quickly, only to be overwhelmed by the dust and mess covering Jeff's desk. I decided that I would quickly dust his desk, which also turned into dismantling a plastic table and pulling up the dirty table cloth from the dining table. Actions that are logical counterparts to "dusting Jeff's desk."

I quickly turned to the table linen cabinet to find a fresh tablecloth. This, of course, led to emptying the linen cabinet and sorting placemats.

Naturally, that meant redoing the entire set up of the buffet so that the linen arrangement there would match the linen arrangement on the table.

I think this is a sickness.

Just as I was officially headed down the hall to the bedroom, I heard a crash. Baxter, the pooch, had knocked off a glass bowl of maple syrup that unnamed child left within doggy reach in the living room. Don't even get me started on the hard and fast "don't eat in the living room rule". I didn't have time to ponder because there were now shards of glass all over the floor. Sticky with maple syrup.

Sweeping, mopping and carefully scouring the floor took the better part of the next hour...since the sweeping, mopping and scouring also involved locating the matching candles for the redecorated dining table.

Lunchtime was upon us and that would require a quick trip to town. I ran and bought the things I needed and came home to yummy eggsalad sandwiches (thanks Aimee Jo!) and nap wrangling.
After four books (two of which I paraphrased like a mad woman) the youngest were down for a nap. The older offspring were off on a backpack adventure in our yard.

I wish I could say I tackled my initial project with gusto. But, the Colts were playing on ESPN and that required my full attention, for about 20 minutes. At which point I realized the three year old had been drawing a road map on his body with a marker instead of napping. I washed and wrangled some more.

Over the next few hours, I intermitently passed between my bedroom and his. He needed reminding of who was in charge. I, apparently, needed to walk 20 miles back and forth down our hallway.

My bedroom was still untouched. And my children were again starving.

I headed back into the fray of food prep and bath time. Interspersed with sweeping my bedroom floor and emptying trash. After four hundred thousand rounds (or so)of "Silas, do not touch Baxter again." Accompanied by a rousing rendition of "You may not have chocolate and ice cream for dinner"...we had children fed, washed, prayed over and tucked in.

I now sit before the computer amazed that the third load of laundry for the day is in process, no one sliced their toes on shards of glass from this morning's incident, and the Chargers beat the Colts. The dinner dishes are also done. And Anaiah's coos are coming from the swing.

Many good things were accomplished today. Including tidying my bedroom (finally).

So, why is it that all I can think about is the monstrous mess in my pantry. The huge pile of ironing. The toy sorting that the boys' room desperately needs. The cookies I intended to bake and didn't. Unsuccessful discipline techniques for my three year old and my new puppy...

These ponderings leave me feeling flattened. I need to pull myself off the pavement and count my blessings. Rest in the moment. Take a shower. :-)

We made it through the day. And the fresh table linens look splendid.

May your day be blessed in the joy of accomplishing even one small thing!

Crashin'

Hello friends and family.

My, how I have missed you.

It feels like it has been years. Though in reality, it has been two weeks. Two. Whole. Weeks.

Our computer crashed. There was an interesting little message that referred to a "potential hard drive failure" which kept popping up on our screen. Aparently, the message meant what it said. If only we had listened AND acted hastily. Then, our hard drive would have been backed up and all real tragedy avoided.

But no. We, in the frenzy of Faith Quest prep assumed we had more time.

Not so.

Our sad, dark screened computer sits beside me now. I offer a prayer every now and again, hoping for one more succesful re-boot so we can reclaim the archives of info locked into its system. (cue Taps...)

Remarkably, our new computer has been set up and configured (Thank you Doug!) to connect to the internet. So, we are back in business.

Or partially. Four adults are now sharing this one computer for all our internet needs...instead of using the wireless system that was set up through our now crashed computer.

Ah, wireless. That sweet, sweet system that allows all adults in one room to type happily away on their own computer, in their own space, at their own leisure...

My determined husband assures me that wireless will once again be ours. And I believe him because he made it happen once. I feel confident, he will make it so again.

Meanwhile, many, many exciting things have been taking place in our Ft Portal land. Christmas celebrations, birthdays, Faith Quest, visitors, Smore Fests, new teammates and Anaiah's laugh...

I have much to tell and even a photo or two to share. So, when my turn comes around again to peruse and enjoy the goodness that is the internet...I'll check back in.

May your day be blessed and computer-problem free!

Looking Back...

It's a 10-20-30 Christmas Meme! Enjoy...

10 years ago, Jeff & I were celebrating our second Christmas in Uganda. It was our first Christmas in our own Africa home and we were scrounging for Christmas décor. (Our first Christmas in Africa was spent in Nairobi with the Stephens. And all I have to say about that is "Diane's Cookie Trays". YUM!!!) For our first attempt at Christmas in our own place, we actually found a place to buy a live Christmas tree in Kampala. We paid for it, cut it and wrapped it in a tarp. It was then tied down in our truck for a grueling 6 hour drive over a very rough road. When we got it home, it wasn’t very pretty.

But we put it up anyway.



Merry Christmas Charlie Brown.:-)

I think I hung some tinsel. And we had a woven sign that said “Mary Christmas.” Every shop in town played a Kenny Rogers/ Dolly Parton Christmas album. I remember missing home so much it hurt.

20 years ago, I was sixteen and in my junior year of high school. I was celebrating Christmas in Odessa with my family and my “other” family. You see, I was very in love with a cute boy who was always away at college. Except for Christmas. When he was home. Good times. He and his family were significant in my life, and a part of all my high school holiday memories.

30 years ago, I was six and enjoying Christmas on Byron Street. My memories are sketchy but I do recall a camera that required a monstrous lighting contraption. It was T- shaped metal piece with two large blinding lights on it. One person would hold the lights behind the one filming with the camera. Snazzy. We mocked the apparatus for many years after.
This Christmas most probably involved receiving a baby doll from Santa Clause, bossing around my little sister and eating very wonderful food at Mamma’s house.
Every childhood Christmas memory involved these three important factors. I can’t believe my sister still loves me.
I’m sure we also enjoyed Christmas music on the 8 track tape player (did Freddie Fenter have a Christmas album?) and of course, the musical stylings of Alvin and the Chipmunks.

I hope everyone had a great Christmas filled with memories you will love to remember!

Focus

13. Sunday dinner
14. Isaac washing dishes
15.Christmas lights
16.Electricity
17. Clean laundry (folded and put away)
18.Overnight getaway with Jeff
19.Naps
20.Very cold chocolate mousse
21.Four wonderful meals cooked for me and served to me!
22. Elephants playing in the water
23. Wrapped Christmas gifts
24. Surprises
25. Safe travels
26. Anaiah's smile
27. Audrey's safety
28. Prayer
29. The Great Physician
30. Courage of friends to take leaps of faith

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:18

At the Same Time

Incongruity. “Not in harmony or keeping with the surroundings or other aspects of something. “

The past week seems full of that word.

Jeff and I began the week with a much anticipated over night trip without our kiddos to a nearby game park. The trip was a wonderful blessing. We did rest and were blessed by delightful meals alone, completed conversations and even some blissful silence. Our time was marvelous.

We arrived back home to Warden duties. (Jeff acts as the Warden for the US Embassy, which means he facilitates communication to the Americans living around Uganda.) At the same time as we were resting as a couple, much Ebola information was circulating and perculating. When we reached home, Jeff called a meeting of the ex-pats in Ft Portal to verify facts and allow for discussion and questions.
The meeting filled our living room. Jeff shared information given to us by the head of the CDC in Uganda. There seemed to be relief in receiving credible information. At the same time we are all coping with the unsettling feelings brought on by discussion of the sickness.

We provided Christmas cookies and drinks during the meeting. Most of those gathered do not meet on a regular basis. There was an odd inconsistency of festive gathering with people of like culture amidst the intensity brought on by the concerns of a serious disease.

The next morning, after several days of upheaval in the scheduling, the children and I finally set our hands and minds to school. We tackled the study of France, division, multiplication, the letter “C” , the physiology of cows and an overview of some endangered species. Isaac started reading sentences and Kinley and Alex wrote wonderful two-point paragraphs. Interspersed in the schooling, I rearranged and cleaned the guest room, worked on Christmas gifts for stateside family and moved the stack of Christmas card supplies from table to desk to kitchen counter...
School was completed. The guestroom is not. Gifts are completed. Cards are not.
The joy of a task marked off the list, accompanied by sighs over the items still remaining on the list.

There is great joy in our home with Christmas décor and lights. At the same time, there is a somber cloud pervading our thoughts as our friends in Bundibugyo battle against a terrible disease and our Ugandan friends struggle through fear and feelings of panic.

We rejoiced over the new life growing inside of a dear friend. (It’s a girl!!!) At the same time, we’ve shared in the grief of the passing of a doctor and hero (Dr. Jonah in Bundibugyo).

We’ve empathized with the intense and painful experience of the last weeks for Andrew, Aimee Jo and their families and friends as they’ve said goodbye and packed up to move their lives across an ocean.

At the same time, we’ve counted the days with joyful anticipation to welcome them here.

Incongruity. Contradictions.

Life.

So many things happening at exactly the same time…

Prayer Cover

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1: 12

To choose to serve is not the easy route. There are no promises of ease. Or even visible results. In times of testing the promise of our unseen eternity can become our anchor.

Over the mountains from us is a district called Bundibugyo. Some fellow sojourners on this soil are the World Harvest Mission Team. They have served in Western Uganda since the 80’s. They began in Ft Portal and then migrated west, to Bundibugyo.

We have known and respected the team members for all our years in Uganda.

Through the rebel crisis of 1998-2000 we leaned on each other. We prayed for each other. And we commiserated and learned from each other during that very strenuous time.

Several days ago, we received difficult news from over the mountains. A mysterious sickness originating in a village outside of Bundibugyo town, was confirmed to be Ebola.

The World Harvest Team was faced with many difficult decisions. The Team Leader and his wife are physicians. They have many years of experience in Bundibugyo and with tropical medicine and illnesses. They had been helping with the mysterious disease and now find they have been in contact with Ebola.

In a painful few days, it was decided to evacuate their team from the area, including their children.

As of yesterday, all the team is out of Bundi except for the Scott and Jennifer Myhre and a visiting doctor, Scott Will.

Tonight, we received more difficult news. Dr. Jonah, the Myhre’s coworker and very close friend, has died from the Ebola virus. He had fallen ill in Kampala, (he was in Kampala on personal business) put himself into the isolation unit of Mulago hospital and we all began to pray for his healing. The reports were encouraging…he was still eating and drinking. But it was confirmed tonight that he has passed away.

I am asking you to pray for Scott Will, the Myhres and their children. Scott and the Myhres have taken precautions, wearing protective gear as they have treated this sickness, but they are at risk. The death of Dr Jonah, no doubt, increases the fear for them and their children. They have been drained already from a very trying and exhausting situation. The grief will add a crushing weight to their shoulders.

Also, please pray for the entire World Harvest Team as they are facing an indefinite evacuation from their homes during the Christmas season. Now also coupled with the news of the loss of a dear friend. Include in your prayers our friends, the Chedesters, who serve with the World Harvest Team from Ft Portal.

Finally, please pray for healing and containment of this very serious illness.

Your prayer support for our family overwhelms us. Thank you for spreading that prayer cover over our friends who we deeply respect and are honored to serve with here.

For daily updates please visit the Myhre's blog at www.paradoxuganda.blogspot.com.

Thank you for praying.

Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. James 5:17-18

Sunday Dinner

Sometimes everything falls into place. And nothing gets broken.

Today, Kinley , Isaac, and I arrived home from church first. We opened the door to the powerfully soothing aroma of Sunday dinner.

You know.

Roast. Potatoes, Carrots. Green Beans and Hot rolls.

There was even apple pie for desert.

Somebody say Hallelujah!

Kinley, Isaac and I all began to work in the kitchen. Five year old Isaac, bravely donned a Santa apron and dove into the dishes. His diligent work cleansed every soiled pot and pan before dinner ever began.

Somebody say Hallelujah again!

Kinley set the table, shaped hot rolls, directed Isaac, and shared her thoughts on Dad’s sermon. All the while Isaac reminded us that he is, in fact, “big now” and “so helpful, Huh Mom?!?!”

When Jeff, Alex and Silas arrived after chauffeuring friends home from church…Isaac had completed the dishes and was happy to announce to his siblings that “Mom REALLY DOES love me the best! She said so!”

(Hey—he did the dishes, folks. Favoritism has no bounds when one tackles the piles of dishes for me!)

He also informed his brothers, that, in fact “Washing dishes is the BEST THING you can do for the woman in your life!” (start ‘em young!)

We all sat down to a lovely meal. No one spilled their iced tea. No one punched their brother in the face. And we managed to speak one person at a time for an all time record of five minutes.

Sweet success.

I took a picture of the moment.



The precious faces. The soothing fragrance of comfort food. Memories of countless Sunday dinners before.

I am thankful for this.


There were two empty spots at the end of our table…
And a high chair…
We are ready.
Reinforcements. Partners.
Team.

Stay tuned….