Freckles in Croatia

It's almost Christmas!!! (wow)

2011-11-29T05:56:00.000-08:00

I can.not.believe that Christmas is just around the corner! Really, where did our year go to? It seems like we were just digging into all of our Christmas decorations that had been stored away while we were on deputation.

Our tree is up and the house is slowly turning into a marvelous sight with signs of Christmas everywhere. This is my most favorite time of year and the kids as well. It's not about the getting and recieving, but remembering WHO this holiday is all about. I will be the first to admit that WE BELIEVE Jesus is the reason for the season.

I also believe in making memories with my kids... and yes they still believe{wink,wink}. Christmas is for having fun and I would never take that away from them. This year we are going to count down the days til Christmas with an advent calendar. I have always wanted to do this, but it never really worked out until now.

My idea:
25 stockings

25 scriptures leading up to the birth of Christ

Fun things to do:a treat, craft, something to bake or make, something to do for someone else

a Christmas movie each night: We loved watching 25 Days of Christmas when we lived in America. This year we are making our own line up. (:

This year my goal is to not STRESS OUT over Christmas. I found the neatest website here to tackle that.

I'm so glad I found these ideas this year!Hopefully you will find them helpful as well.

Good Preaching from our Pastor in CROATIA!

2011-10-26T13:06:00.000-07:00

Our pastor came to visit us at the end of September in Croatia. This was his first time preaching with a translator. I think he did really well..... I'm a little biased though. (: I hope that you enjoy. Have a wonderful Wednesday!!

Sermons

Dare you not to shed a tear. [VIDEO]

2011-10-20T14:58:00.000-07:00

WARNING: THIS WILL MAKE YOU CRY!! Don't forget your tissues.
This was just precious... I am praying that we would have an opportunity to do something like this for our kids!

Dare you not to shed a tear. [VIDEO]

Weekly ConnectionPoint

2011-10-20T14:46:00.000-07:00

Blessed to be able to share what God is doing in Croatia through our family. Evangelism is slow in Europe, so we are thankful for each chance He gives us to witness for Him. Please take a look @ the Connection Point below and find out how you can pray for us and Croatia. (:
Weekly
ConnectionPoint

Our first field trip

2011-10-11T13:27:00.000-07:00

I miss going to Graves Mountain in Virginia to the Apple Festival to enjoy "all things apple". Not to mention the spectacular Autumn views of leaves changing all around us! Well, today was our first field trip to Haus des Apfels in Austria. They had a restaurant, museum, and many different kinds of apples to choose from. We had a wonderful time when we finally got there. The food was okay... meats and cheeses and bread platter with other things as well. We didn't see the museum, the owners only spoke German, but the views were pretty awesome! On our way back home we stopped by the pump king stand and picked out some to decorate and cook with. I would share some pictures, but today I used my "nice" old camera that still uses film. I wanted good pictures and this camera hadn't been used in a while. So....... when I gets the film developed, I will share! LOL.

Singing it Sunday~Grace by laura story

2011-10-09T05:23:00.000-07:00

Where would we be without His Grace? He tells us in His Word that His grace is sufficient for us. Praise the Lord... I am so underserving... blessings to you this Sunday.

Singing it Sunday~ The Perrys

2011-10-02T13:19:00.000-07:00

I pray that you know Him today, not only with your head...
but your heart. Have a blessed Sunday!

Such a foodie....

2011-10-02T10:58:00.000-07:00

especially since our family made the move to Croatia. I cook way more now than ever, always trying to find recipes of my fav missed foods from America.
I love the recipes from Kitchen Simplicity! They are easy and family friendly which is important to me! Please take a look see... you won't be disappointed. :) Click HERE

Summer's gone...

2011-09-26T12:06:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast summer just flew! Makes me sad a little because when the weather is cold and dreary my children are so moody! I can't blame them really... WHO wants to be COLD?! I am looking forward to FALL though and all the beauty it brings. It is my most favorite season next to SPRING. :).

Our summer was full of many milestones: daughters turning 8 & 10, a son turning 5, 12 wonderful years of marriage, and our "First year" in Croatia.... and we survived!

I'm hoping to post a Smile Box soon of our first year in Croatia.

Monday's Post a day early! :)

2011-09-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

Sounds crazy, but Mondays are one of my favorite days of the week. I guess it stems from always having the day off when Kevin was on staff at our church. I was "our" day to do whatever we needed... usually groceries and Weight Watchers for me while Kevin watched the girls. Then we usually went out to eat later in the day.

I often think of Mondays as a fresh start to a new week. I usually make a menu for he week, the kids pick their koolaid flavor, sometimes I find a new recipe I want to try. I doesn't matter what happened last week because .... everyone has a fresh "new" start.

This Monday will be like no other! After being in Croatia for over a year now, our Pastor and wife Gail are coming to see us!! We are so excited to show them Croatia!!! It is going to be a whirlwind of a trip for them. Pastor Tony will probably be preaching on Wednesday night at our church if his kidney stone does not give him problems. Please pray for him.

We can't wait to get to Zagreb tomorrow and pick him up. I am looking forward to the day when we have a ministry established and they can come help us out. Well, guess I should go. I still have some things unfinished and I am also caring for a sniffly little Noah. Pray for him too.

Singing it Sunday~ My Name Is Jesus

2011-09-25T02:12:00.000-07:00

Our ~~very talented~~ awesome Pastor's son Adam Kohout went to the National Quartet Convention this past week to play piano for some of Gospel Music's finest groups.

God has really blessed him with the abilities to play piano by ear and write Gospel Music. I miss it so much, but am thankful for technology that let's me enjoy what I can't in person.

Our former music director also makes his debut at the end of the song. So glad the Lord is using him as well with the group 11th Hour. Have a blessed Sunday!

Jelly & Juice...{Grape that is}

2011-09-18T14:08:00.000-07:00

My sweet sister-in-law in Austria had a massive amount of grapes this year.

This past weekend our family went up to help with the plentiful harvest.

I will tell you, her kitchen smelled so heavenly with all those grapes.

I had never made jelly or juice ever, so this was new for me.

After the first few batches, it got easier.

As our final day ended, I ended up with 23 liters of juice, 16 jars of jelly, and a few small jars with juice in them.

Guess what.... she still has plenty on the vine!

It's a good thing they live close, I must go back and pick what I can!

I never ever thought this would be my life... making things from scratch. :)

PS We don't have grape anything here unless we make it ourselves. All of those yummy grapes are turned into wine. That's okay, because what I made tastes just like the real deal. :)

A sweet Momma's Birthday

2011-09-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Ever since February I have been following Kelly here@ Another Day Stronger.

You see, her precious little Maddie went to be with Jesus much sooner than

anyone would have expected due to SIDS. For anyone who has suffered the

loss of a child, you know how devestating this was to this precious

mother. I know about pregnancy loss, I've been there. However, I cannnot

imagine losing a baby, my first born at only 4 1/2 months old. I do know

that God is too wise to make a mistake, and too good to be unkind. He

gives us grace when we can't go on any longer. Today I am honoring

Maddie's memory on her mommy's birthday. I pray that you would visit her

blog and encourage her today.

Just Us

2011-09-13T13:21:00.000-07:00

In our home we do second chances...

We do prayers.

We do real.

We do mistakes.

We do I'm sorrys.

We do loud really well!

We do Hugs, we do Love......

WE ARE FAMILY!

Sujo John Ministries

2011-09-10T13:20:00.000-07:00

So glad the Lord worked in a miraculous way and spared the life of this man of God through the tragedy of 9-11. It's amazing how God is using him to win souls. I'm so glad our home church gets to partner with Sujo John Ministries. Take a minute to read his miraculous story. May we NEVER forget! Sujo John Ministries

Chick-fil-A.......

2011-08-14T04:54:00.000-07:00

was open for business today in our home! I have been craving their original sandwich for sometime. I knew there were many homemade recipes floating around the net, I just never thought to make my own. Until.... today! The secret is marinading your chicken breasts in dill pickle juice and powdered sugar in your flour mixture.

Surprisingly, they turned out delicious right down to my homemade half sours pickles! All I
need next is the waffle fries from Austria, coleslaw recipe, and thick homemade milkshake for dessert.

I know some may say..."It's just a chicken sandwich.". Well, if you lived on the road of deputation for a while, all those "other" places just got old! Chick-fil-A has always been consistent in their service, cleanliness,and good food. I don't mind spending extra for quality when we can. Christian businesses deserve our business when we can.

Come to Jesus (Untitled Hymn)

2011-08-03T05:25:00.000-07:00

Where ever you are and whatever you are going through Christ's love is always constant. You can always "come to Jesus" and He will be there to meet you where you're at. So thankful for that! ;) (even whe nI fail Him) Love it!

He's Home

2011-07-23T02:49:00.000-07:00

We were in for the shock of our life when our Pastor's son called Kevin asking him to be the guest speaker for the Pasotr's Anniversary service. I quickly told him, "Say, yes!". He thought and prayed about it though overnight and gave the final answer soon after. There was nothing here pressing to where he couldn't make the trip and besides... I certainly needed things from America! :) LOL

All kidding aside, Kevin was honored to be the secret, special guest for our Pastor. The service was a success and I'm sure Kevin preached a wonderful message. (not that I'm biased or anything) Gotta stand behind my man! :) My mom was glad for him to be there and help ge the last of our stuff packed and airmailed to Croatia. I sent him and my mom to fulfill my list of wants and needs and... now he's HOME. Even though his visit was short and sweet, it was still enough time to love on some nieces and nephews for us. That's the only sad thing about us all not going.... missing out on seeing a new niece for the first time.

I know the a furlough will be not so long down the road. We have already been here 11 months! WOW!! Can't wait to celebrate our 1st full year here. We are currently planning ou Pastor and Gail's trip over to see us at the end of September.

Summer sure is flying by on our side of the world! On a side note~ we had a full church house last night!! We didn't even have to have food or anything special... they just showed up! (and I didn't have my camera do document it ) (: That's just a "God thing". What a way to encourage us to keep on serving Him even when it seems like we are not making a difference! Praise the Lord!!

fomny, Fomny, FOMNY!!

2011-07-09T14:14:00.000-07:00

I absolutely LOVE watching TV while I'm getting my things done around the house! It seems to help the time pass by quickly and make my chores less painful. LOL Moving to Croatia kind of through a kink in my usual routine. We can get cable here with many of the same channels I loved. Maybe sometime in the future... right now we don't need it. However, I am hooked on Fomny TV! It allows me stream live TV from America. I love it... except for when there is something I want to watch that comes on in the evening in the US! That time difference thing is such a pain.
The only exception I made was to watch Revival that was streaming live with our favorite evangelist Randy Perry. Revival started @ 1am for me, 7pm in the US. Call me crazy, I just really needed to hear some good preaching and singing. The Lord really blessed and challenged me to draw closer to HIM. Technology is amazing! You can find Fomny HERE. Randy Perry Ministries can be found HERE

Rain..... AGAIN

2011-06-10T12:40:00.000-07:00

Rain always makes Sundays ~~interesting~~ crazy! Gloomy days make our children irritable, they are lovers of sunshine and warmth! We needed it though as I'm sure much of America does also.

Despite the rain though we had an AWESOME attendance in church this morning. Praying for an awesome kids meeting!

Cherries~ Neighbors~ The Gospel

2011-05-30T12:42:00.000-07:00

I can't belive that I our family has been living in Croatia for almost 9 months! It is so unreal to me that we have finally made it. We are enjoying our new normal and all the while still missing the old normal. Spring has sprung in our backyard orchard: 4 pear trees, 3 peach, 4 apple, 1plum, 1 HUGE cherry tree, and a local fruit here in Croatia. Our cherry tree is LOADED with bright red cherries. Needless to say... OUR house is the IT spot. Everyone wants to eat our cherries... about 10 neighborhood children and a handful of adults. Today our 60 year old neighbor Monica climbed the tree to reach cherries that we can't. LOL She is a pro at it... we are just learning. :)
Who would have thought that such a trivial thing as cherries would bring so many people into our backyard? I was on the balcony when I heard my husband witnessing to a man from down the street. Praise the Lord for every opportunity He gives us to speak of His GREAT love for them. :) I pray that our neighbors will see Christ in us and that we would do nothing to destroy our testimony for the Lord.
Missions for us is building a trusting relationship with those around us to prepare their precious hearts for the sweetness of the Gospel. They may have come for cherries, but hopefully one day they will leave with their hearts full of Jesus.

WARNING... prepare for cuteness

2011-05-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

More of HIM and less of me Monday

2011-05-09T13:19:00.000-07:00

I have a confession.... Coca~Cola slipped into our house this weekend. I know that is a BIG no no when trying to lose weight. Perhaps I would have lost more if it were not in the house. You see, sometimes I just can't say NO, I just have to drink it! Despite the few bad food choices this past week, I still lost. Maybe it was my faithfulness to keep up with my walking... i don't know.

Anyway, I am down 1.6 lbs. Praise the Lord for His goodness.
This week I am working on:
*more water (today almost 2 liters)
*less junk (candy, chips etc.)
*more veggies and protein
*less carbs

Spiritually speaking:
* more of Jesus~ I am struggling to keep up with my personal time with the Lord. I need to make time for God and His Word. I need to give Him my best and not make Him last. It is really hard on the field since we don't have Sunday School for us adults or Ladies Bible Study. Sometime I get lost when the message is being translated, sometimes I just stop listening altogether. I am realizing how important my quiet time with the Lord is needed in order for me to grow. Even I could benefit from a weekly deeper study in His Word.

Well, I think that I have my work cut out for me this week. I am praying that He will give me the strength to do it.

More of HIM & less of me Monday

2011-05-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

Up until this past Wednesday I have been doing a 12 week Fitness Challenge on a blog from a fellow missionary wife in Spain. I didn't win or anything, but one thing I did learn was that exercise is important. I think I only lost 4 pounds, but that's okay because now I am walking 4 miles a day!! I never thought I could ever do that! LOL Getting healthy again takes time and sometimes baby steps. Now I see that I CAN walk that far. Next, I need to increase my water and cut out the grazing. (:

So I am changing my weigh in days to Mondays instead of Wednesdays. No weight loss or gain from the last 2 Wednesdays.

Goal for this week: 1 liter of water each day and no sweets (like I said... baby steps)

Check back next week to see less of me and more of HIM.

"Whether therefore ye eat or drink or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31

Weight Loss Wednesday

2011-04-13T00:30:00.000-07:00

Note to self:

Don't ever go on a LONG walk in a skirt.....

..... ESPECIALLY if your legs rub together! LOL

I went for my walk Monday with Traci and wore a skirt because my workout pants were washing. Now I am paying for it!! My thighs are so sore just like when I was pregnant with Noah. What a reminder of how necessary it is for me to get in shape. I did 12 miles last week... this week we are shooting for 15. So glad that I have a dedicated partner who is not going to let me give up. Hope that I can do the same for her. (:

Oh the things I miss

2011-04-06T23:19:00.000-07:00

Lately it seems that when I stand still... I think about all the things and people I'm missing back home. The Bible tells us that we NEED to be still and know that HE is God. So what should I do when my heart is heavy from missing things from back home? Ask the Lord for His help...because He told us to ask Him and also that He would not give us too much that we couldn't bear. This time apart will make our eventual time together sweeter. One doesn't really realize how much you miss something or someone until you can't have it. Okay, so here is what I'm missing in no particular order:

1.My family- shopping with my mom and sister, seeing and hugging nieces and nephews almost anytime I wanted. Having them so close.

2. Friends- especially my church friends. Especially my sweet friends Robin & Anita- no matter how many times we came back from the road, we could always pick up where we left off.

3. My automatic Ford Taurus- I haven't driven since AUgust of last year. I really ~~hate~~... dislike learning to drive a manual vehicle.

4. Sunday School for ME- I'm wondering if I will ever understand enough Croatian to be fed.

5. Singing in English- I have forgotten alot of the Hymns in English or either mix up the verses.

Well, I could probably go on but I won't. I need to get busy with life here is Croatia. It really is nice here and God has been good. I know that our separation from America will only be for a little while. (:

Won't You be my Neighbor

2011-03-22T14:10:00.000-07:00

We couldn't have been more blessed with the best neighbors in Croatia. Not only do they speak English... they are also friendly and very helpful when we are in need. The kids are slowly making friends in our neighborhood, sadly though we mainly have big boys on our street. No girls for Erin and Ally to play with and no "little guys" for Noah. :(

However, last week a little boy by the name of Matej saw us in the driveway and said "hi". He is about 8 years old and very sweet. He came to our house about three days in a row to play! Poor guy must be bored with just grandpa at home. He didn't care that he was playing with girls, he was just glad to have company! LOL

Today our neighbor across the street, Zlatko, said that his son wanted to come over and meet our kids. He speaks good English and..... ummm..... is 12 years old! Well, our oldest GIRL is only 9!! He was very nice though, he and his dad came over and brought us chocolate. The kids played Creationary (Noah calls is Croatianary). I think they had fun, but I think he realized playing with girls is no fun.

Oh well, it sure is fun meeting new folks here and trying to be witnesses of Him. I think that Zlatko is really interested in what we are doing here in Croatia. Before he left he asked us what our plans were while we are here. Kevin got to tell him a little of what we are currently doing. I'm convinced that missions is ministering to people one by one and building strong, trusting relationships. Zlatko is in need of a friend, I'm glad that Kevin can be his friend. He has already asked Kevin if He wants to go biking.

Well, this is enough for tonight. We are hosting an evangelist next week in our home and I need to be busy getting things ready for him. Also Easter is just around the corner and there are things I want to do for the Gypsy kids. We are also planning an Easter Egg Hunt for our neighbor kids at our house. So lots to do and running out or time. Happy Spring, it's beautiful in our "neck of the woods".

A Wonderful Day in Zagreb

2011-03-19T14:02:00.000-07:00

Today our church went to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia to pass out tracts and also John & Romans booklets. This was the first time our kids have ever done anything like this. My girls were a bit shy in the beginning asking people to take the booklets. As the day went on they got a little braver. I told them that the Lord would be happy in how many OR how few they gave out. NUMBERS is not important. What is important is that the Word of God was put into many Croatians hands by ALL of our team.

Ally told me when it was over,"This is much harder than my math class!" I would have to agree. Many people don't want to hear about the Gospel. Lots of people refused the Gospel today and many told us they were Catholic. What remains is that they are still lost. One lady told me today in English that she is a faithful Catholic and has 3 Bibles at home. This is so sad tha she has the Word, but has probably never read of how she can be saved. I told one lady today that being a Baptist or a Catholic didn't matter as far as Heaven was concerned. It is the relationship that we have with Jesus Christ by putting our faith and trust in Him.

Our day ended with a trip to the Zagreb Zoo. The kids loved it and it brought back memories for Kevin and I of when we came over on our survey trip 5 years ago.

A Great Lord's Day

2011-02-27T13:13:00.000-08:00

The temperatures were a bit cold on this flurryish Sunday morning, but our hearts were quickly warmed with wonderful singing and preaching from God's Word. I kept the younger ones today in the nursery today and realized that I need to learn this language quickly. They love to tell me "They don't understand English.", especially when they aren't listening. Kids are so smart.

The children this afternoon were a bit wild n wooly. They charged into church with 20 minutes to spare and (possibly get into trouble). Next thing I know big foam puzzle pieces are being slung everywhere.

I bet they were a bit surprised when my usually "quiet" self came in there and told them to pick up every piece right that minute. Most of them knew better!!!! I know they were laughing at my English. Needless to say, there is never a dull moment around here.

More than Wonderful!

2011-02-18T11:58:00.000-08:00

I've been singing this song all week. Hope that you enjoy it as much as I do and that He is more than wonderful to you. Blesings. :)

It's Official

2011-02-18T11:51:00.000-08:00

We have officially been in Croatia 6 months today. I don't know where the time has gone. Before you know it, we will be a few years in and then getting ready for a furlough.

It's amazing how God is working through us... a team of Texans, Georgians, a Jersey Girl, and the only Virginian (me). Praise the Lord... Great things He hath done. I am looking forward to the next 6 months here in Croatia and praying that God will use our family for His glory.

What is Missions?

2011-02-15T16:12:00.000-08:00

When people think of missionaries they naturally think of preaching, teaching, and passing out tracks. Right? I would say yes. What if you are a missionary wife? We certainly can't preach...(although our husbands would probably disagree). ;) Our ministry is first in our home to our children who did not ask to be missionaries. They are along for the ride and need to feel like life is somewhat normal in their home.(Don't get me wrong, I am not feeling sorry for my kids living on the mission field.) It is actually a wonderful opportunity for them! :) For now homeschooling, getting to know my neighbors, and building relationships are all part of my ministry.

What else can women do to minister on the field? Ministry can also include, but not be limited to: baking cookies for your neighbor on special days, crafting with ladies in your church, trying your best to use as much of the language you know to speak to your neighbor etc. Sometimes people need to friendly smile and kind words to go along with the tract you give them. We will never know what a person is dealing with until we make the effort. The truth is that people are hurting everywhere and we may be the only Jesus they see.

Can we do more than we are already doing... certainly. Do so carefully and don't forget about the ministry God has given you right at Home. I'm thinking of ways even now to help my children become part of the team in reaching Croatia for Christ. Hopefully I will share about our efforts later.

What Makes me a Christian?

2011-02-15T15:54:00.000-08:00

1. It's not the variety of Christian music I listen to.

2. It's not my Christian friends.

3. It's not the good I do. Many people are good AND lost.

4. It's not even my modest apparel whether it be skirt or pants.

You see... none of those things make me a Christian. Those things help set me apart from those who aren't a Christian. They help others see the difference Christ made in me.

When I was just a little girl, He made it known to me that I was lost. I needed Him as my personal Savior. It wasn't until I accepted His FREE gift of salvation that I became a Christian.

His FREE gift is available to ALL who will recieve it.

No, I'm not perfect. I'm thankful for a forgiving Father who is full of grace and mercy when I mess up.

A little house keeping...

2011-02-11T07:01:00.000-08:00

NEVER hurt anyone. Excuse me while I clean up and rearrange my BLOG. The warm weather we've been having is my motivation.

Out with the OLD, in with the NEW. Hope that you have a fabulous WEEKEND!

Urgent Prayer Request on FB today.

2011-02-09T08:45:00.000-08:00

When I logged on to Facebook yesterday I found this from one of my friends in my newsfeed. An urgent need for prayer for this family. This is the blog of a newly expecting couple just weeks from delivering their first baby. Their story is a tragic one and really made me stop and think of how God has blessed my family and I with life. How would I would handle when they are going through? Only by His grace. I don't know them personally, but the Lord does.

Our little secret

So Proud of My Pastor

2011-02-08T07:50:00.000-08:00

His Singing Group "The Virginia Boys" did a great job on their latest project~ Everyday. One of my favorite songs has made it to #73 in the nation on the Southern Gospel Top 100. You can listen here The Virginia Boys - Every Day to that song "For Every Cross There is a Crown". Just scroll down to the bottom of the main page and you will see the link to listen to anything off their latest project. I hope that you enjoy.

Not any time SOON!

2011-01-29T01:12:00.000-08:00

Well, I have realized that pics from our arrival to Croatia and all the happenings aren't going to happen anytime soon. My computer is on the blink and unfortunatley the pics I need are on it! Hopefully we will find a place to see what the problem is.
On the bright side, we had a wonderful "First Christmas in Croatia". We were able to SKYPE with family and just take our time enoying the day. It sure was different though not having extra kids in the house and family so close. Praise th Lord for modern technology!
Today finds us HOME after a weeklong unexpected stay in Austria. Our visit was good, BUT....... there is no place like HOME. Erin and daddy are coughing uncontrollably and on the way to the doctor. Nothing that we are doing is working for them. Pray the doctors will give us something and they will get to feeling better soon.

Enjoying our New Home Away from Home

2010-12-04T02:27:00.000-08:00

The last time I posted we just arrived in Austria at my brother and sister in law's home to recover from jetlag. Since that time we have moved into our home, obtained our visas, bought a van, started language school, and now enjoying A LOT of snow! So much has happened since we've been here.... I'll catch you up on the happenings in a bit. Now, my house is begging for some much needed attention.

Almost HOME

2010-08-09T14:41:00.000-07:00

Our family experienced a wonderful Missions Conference last week that officially sent us on our way to Croatia. It was a wonderful time of laughing, crying (alot), and remembering our deputation experience. Saying goodbye to friends and family was the hardest thing we have ever done! God had to get us to the point of helping us remember the task at hand... getting the GOSPEL to Croatia.

Our flight began by being delayed 2 hours at Dulles airport which meant we would miss our connecting flight in Munich to Graz. Our only option was to wait a few hours in Munich and then board another plane to Vienna and then on to Graz. Despite being TIRED & WORN OUT, eveeryone made the trip well. They held our luggage also in Munich, so we did not receive it til the next day. Things could have been worse...thank the Lord for his goodness.

Jetlag is another story... it is hard convincing 3 children that it's time for bed when their body is still on US time. Oh well, this too shall pass.(:

HOME in Croatia ... 7 days. Lots of thanks to my inlaws in Austria for allowing us to stay with them for now.

Dog Tired... To Say The Least

2010-07-28T12:36:00.000-07:00

Lately it's just been my Ford Taurus and I keep the roads hot in search of things we may "miss" when we leave. I have come to the conclusion that I will probably forget something.... and I am okay with that. God has always provided and still will even though we are not in the comforts of America.

Our container is arriving on Saturday they tell us...(YEAH)! ;) It will be a great thing to have all of the packing done and just be able to chill out a little before we leave. I am so thankful for a wonderful church family who is taking care of our children's carry-ons (even down to the extra change of clothing). We are blessed to have such a kind and compassion Pastor. Our container will not arrive until the first week in September though so pray for us. That is okay though because there is much to do in our "new home". Painting, rearranging, new fixtures, things to purchase until it do get there etc. Just another day in the life of a missionary, another grand adventure! LOL

Deputation was a challenge... I'm sure we haven't seen anything yet once we arrive. I'm so thankful for friends that have already paved the way into Croatia and are waitng on us. Also I'm thankful for a wonderful sister & brother inlaw who are opening their home to us in Austria until we recover from jetlag. It will be a blessing to be able to see them again and just wonderful to have them close.

OH, I think I hear the phone ringing and many other things wanting my attention.

Bye for now ya'll

Will This Ever End?

2010-07-18T20:15:00.001-07:00

It seems like we have been packing forever for our BIG MOVE to Croatia. I would have to say that I am not a fan! You never realize how much stuff you have until it has to be packed into boxes and inventoried. Well, this is the part of deputation we are at... much to do and only a little time to do it. Please pray that we can have it done and on it's way to our new home by the end of the week. We do have a majority of it finished, it's just those little "What if we need it items" to deal with.

I am so thankful for the Leslie Family who helped us find a home already. They have been working hard on our behalf to get things ready for us to get there. Although packing is a daunting task... I can't wait to unpack on the other side of the ocean and settle into our new home.

The Lord has much for us to do when we arrive. Please keep us in your prayers as we make Croatia our new HOME... only 17 more days.

Okay so it's been a WHILE

2010-06-15T20:39:00.001-07:00

PLEASE EXCUSE THIS BLOG... THINGS HAVE CHANGED ALOT W/ BLOGGER SINCE I POSTED LAST & THINGS ARE NOT THE WAY I WANT THEM TO LOOK. THANKS

All at once life just happens really quickly and lots of things become neglected... such as this blog. Just to bring you up to date, we went to Kansas for some meetings and have been back home since Mother's Day even though my last post says otherwise! WOW, time flies when your busy!! Lots of exciting things have happened since we've been back home: we have all of our shipping container funds, our plane tickets are purchased, and we have half of our set up costs covered when we move to Croatia. We are praising the Lord for HIS goodness to us.

Our last official meeting is the first week in August at our home church. Our last official day in the USA is August the 5th! YIKES!! We are so excited to be making the move and taking this next BIG step of faith.

Pray for us that we:

* will finish our inventory of our storage unit in a timely manner.

*find housing in Croatia- can't ship our container without an address- our friends in Croatia are helping with that.

*will be faithful to HIM as he directs us in the PATH He has laid out for us.

OH, by the way... we were in VA.... but now we are in PA for a Wednesday night meeting! LOL The life of a missionary is always interesting to say the least.

I'm not in Virginia anymore!

2010-04-19T14:54:00.000-07:00

We have followed the YELLOW BRICK ROAD all the way to Kansas for a few meetings through the month of April. God has already blessed us with one more church who has promised their support to help us reach Croatia for Christ! WELCOME aboard Hillcrest Bible Baptist Church in Ark City, Kansas!! *Praise the Lord* Although this road of deputation has been long and hard at times, He has been faithful to us and provided the churches He wants us to have. Our deputation trail has almost come to an end and for that I am most thankful. HOME in Croatia is calling our name.

Pray for us, for we still have much to do before we make our departure.

I"m a Bargain shopper

2010-04-11T21:08:00.000-07:00

I can't pass up a bargain!!! Most of the time, if I see it and it is almost dirt cheap, I think that I must have it! Deputation has kind of changed me a little... bargain prices are a must, but our tiny car and budget can only allow so much.

About a month ago I started looking for winter clothing to put away for the kids to take to Croatia. Clothing there is so expensive and often cheaply made I have been told. So I started at the local kids consignment shop and boy am I glad I did!!

I found the BEST $1.00 rack in the whole world!!! There were tons of clothing on it from shirts to skirts and jeans to jackets. The best part of all is that everything was only $1.00. When it was all said and done, I only spent $23.00 and got so many great things for the kids. Many of the pants still had tags on them too. I even found a long jean skirt, which is very hard to come by. I was able to buy clothes in several sizes so they can grow into them. The Lord sure had me in the right place at the right time.

Since that day I have been able to find shirts and sweaters at Kohl's for really good prices as well. Thank you Lord for your blessings on me.

* I'm gonna have to post pics of my finds later.*

BUSY, Busy, busy!

2010-04-11T20:45:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a while, but things have been so hectic around here! My last post left us in Texas, but since then we went home then up to Maryland, down to Texas AGAIN and then back HOME. My Honey did all of that crazy traveling while we caught up on a little school. That's the only thing about homeschooling... deputation really has a way of messing up your schedule!

Ohio came next on our list of to dos where we had two really great meetings both promising us support. This new support brings us up o 74%! YAY!! We are planning to leave at 75% so we can get there and begin learning the language and trusting the Lord to supply the rest when we get to the field. We have heard that some churches wait until the missionary gets there to begin support. I sure hope that is what they are waiting on. (:

We've been to Ohio and back home, then Georgia to visit family and now we are back in Ohio again. Is your head spinning yet?! It would be nice if we could work one state at a time, but most of the time that is not how it works out!): We had an unexpected meeting tonight which was a blessing! The church wants to take on more missionaries so please pray that we might be one of them.

The end of this part of our journey will take us to Kansas and finally Pennsylvania before we come home. Hopefully the first part of the summer we can devote to the daunting task of inventorying our storage unit so that we can ship it to Croatia. I have heard that it's so much FUN! JUST KIDDING!!! More like a thorn in your flesh, but I can't part with memories, so they must come with.

Who said missionaries lives were boring. Stick around us for too long and the Lord may call you as well..... we sure could use you in such a needy country! Can't wait to get there myself.

Use Your Imagination

2010-03-02T12:30:00.000-08:00

This post only requires you to close your eyes and think. Imagine if our country never had a written language which would mean that we couldn't read, write, or have a copy of God's Word!

Our family just recently stayed at a Bible Institute in Texas that is training missionaries to go to countries where there is not a written language to eventually create a written language for them. After the language is written down with much preparation and study, they can then translate the Bible into that language! As you can tell, that is not easy task for anyone.

My heart was blessed by the dedication these missionaries have to take the Gospel to these "Bible less People Groups". One thing is for sure, most of them are giving up much more than the average missionary. Most of them go into the middle of nowhere, into the "bush" to work with these tribal people. The missionaries live almost like the natives for the sake of the Gospel.

Does this make them anymore spiritual or called... no. Each mission field is different, just as each missionary is different. However, it does mean that we should stop and think the next time we complain about things that really don't matter. My heart was stirred to not worry about what my eventual home would look like because some of those missionaries would be building their home from the ground up. Some will hike a day or two to get to where they are going.

I have realized that God is going to take care of even the smallest details for me. He doesn't want me to worry, but to TRUST.

Friday Flashback

2010-02-26T08:40:00.001-08:00

I think every mama goes through a phase where she dresses her daughters the same or almost the same. Especially if she was never blessed with twins! My girls are twenty months apart from each other and are the best of friends (mostly). ;0)

This picture was taken when Erin was in First Grade and Ally in K4. Erin just lost both of her front teeth. I must say, they were looking exceptionally cute that day!

Today, they are still good friends and enjoy having each others company.

Bless His Heart (twice)

2010-02-25T17:48:00.000-08:00

Every time Noah opens his mouth to speak, I'm always wondering what he's going say next. Lately He wants to know when we're going back to Nana's house (where we live when not on the road). Other questions include, "Is that Pastor going to get our house in Croatia?"; "Are we in Texas?"- "Yes Noah."- He says, "Oh, I like that town!"

The question/statement of the hour is, "When we get to Croatia, can they move our side beside Nana's house?" "I love Nana really a lot and Nana love me really a lot." How do you answer a question like that without feeling horrible?

Our only answer was that we would still see Nana, but not alot. We will talk on the phone and see her on the computer. =( The only life he knows is deputation, so he doesn't have his own room, home, fav seat at the table etc.

I know, I know.... I need to be strong for him and the girls. Sometimes it's hard and all I want to do is make things "normal" for them. Then.... I remember the Croatian people and how we must go and make a normal life for them there.

.....Pray for us that it won't be much longer!

IKEA or Bust!

2010-02-25T17:38:00.001-08:00

Just doing a little window shopping for my new home in Croatia and NEEDED to pick up the latest catalog! I forget how much I love this store until I walk in and the kids want to try out all of the sofas! LOL Then they want to make a wish list of what they want their room to look like. All in all, it was a really cheap date night/ fun night with the kids. The only thing we left with was a bag of meatballs, Lingonberry preserves, and gravy packet. Meatballs you say... lingonwhat?, haven't you been to IKEA?! One can never leave without trying the meatball combo... soooo GOOD!

We can't wait until we can shop for real at the IKEA in Austria right by my sweet sister in law Melinda.(She and her husband are missionaries there.) Take a look at how my meatballs turned out:

A Home Away from Home

2010-02-20T16:02:00.000-08:00

Life on the road is tough when you're a missionary. God had provided our family with some wonderful places to call home while we travel. I just wish I had taken pictures of them all!

This is our current dwelling in the Houston area. We are staying at Berean Baptist Church's missions home and it is AWESOME!

The rug in the bathroom brought back a flood of memories. It is the same one we used in our daughter's nursery where we used the Country Noah's Ark. I miss those days.

The Seaside Room~ very pretty with it's own bathroom

The Garden Room~ cute w/bunks for the kids

and the same room w/ a queen bed too. There is also a bathroom attached.

A spacious living room and kitchen complete with washer and dryer.

I would highly recommend this place for any missionary needing a place to say. It is able to house a large family or a few smaller families. We stayed in two rooms on the other side of the living room. They had the same layout as the other side with one large bathroom in between.

****BONUS~ Playground for th kids to run off all their energy!****

You are Loved

2010-02-14T21:03:00.000-08:00

The Best Valentine

2010-02-14T20:34:00.000-08:00

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son. That whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish; but have everlasting life.

What a wonderful promise! So glad He's mine... is He yours? If not then why not trust Him.

Friday Flashbacks

2010-02-12T15:25:00.001-08:00

This is our sweet Allyson Grace, I think she was about 4 or 5 weeks old in this picture. Those were the days, care for a 20 month old and a new little one. She definitley kept us on our toes and let us know when she needed something. Waaaaaaa! Much different than her sister.

Today she is still completely different from her sis, but we love that difference!! She adds spunk to our life and definitley makes us laugh!

Check her out on my sidebar!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

Oh Yum!

2010-02-09T20:23:00.001-08:00

LOOK at what my sweet husband made for LUNCH! Chicken Pot Pie!!! It was so yummy on this cool and blustery day.

Spring Fever

2010-02-07T12:15:00.000-08:00

While we have escaped most of the COLD & SNOWY weather in Virginia, we still are getting "Spring Fever" here in Texas. Yesterday, it was 61 and sunny so we took the kids to the coast. It was the farthest south we have ever been in Texas! Everyone had fun exploring the beach for shells and squishing the sand between our toes! Sure beats 2 feet of snow!

PRETTY PALM TREES

WARM WEATHER= BARE TOES

JUST US ENJOYING GALVESTON ISLAND

Lookie, lookie

2010-02-07T12:05:00.000-08:00

I was in Target the other day and found something very useful for ministry:

Catholicism for Dummies.... what will they think of next? I think it will be a help to us to understand how the Catholic community thinks. Couldn't pass it up for a $1.

Also, I couldn't resist this candle on the clearance shelf! Do you see the title? "Home Again", I plan on saving this for my future home in Croatia where they are so cold to the Gospel. Hopefully our family will be able to help share the warmth of the Gospel to this needy land.

.....Pray for us!

New Adventures

2010-02-06T20:32:00.000-08:00

With every "mission home" comes new adventures: new toys to play with, beds to sleep in,sights to see, kitchens to cook in. Everything is always new and always takes some getting used to...... especially... trying to figure out which way the shower knobs turn so that you don't scald yourself!!!

Here are just a few of our new adventures this week:

Give us a smile!
The horses and donkey behind us at the boarding stables.

The tiny kitchen to work in.... thank goodness for the one in the church!

New dolls to play with and books to read. (cars and blocks for Noah too)

New places to sleep..... Noah got the couch this time.

Although we are not "home" yet, we are thankful for churches like this that have a home for us to stay in until we get to our "Home, home". Like Noah would say. =)

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-01-25T16:23:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY... January 26, 2010

Outside my window... sun is going down in Texas creating a beautiful skyline!

I am thinking... of how glad I am that there are missionaries in Croatia to help us get started

I am thankful for... good children (compared to many I have seen.

I am wearing... a dark pair of jeans and a soft pink short sleeved shirt.

I am remembering... all of the fun times we have had on deputation! (yes that is possible)

I am going... to look for a fun place to go while in Texas

I am currently reading... my Bible through in a year {struggling -(}

I am hoping... and praying that we pick up some new support while in Texas

From the kitchen... We had a church potluck on Sunday and they left us the leftovers! Going to get creative though. Alright- little to no cooking this week!! Thanks Ladies!

Around the house... Laundry washed today, some dishes needing washed, keeping our living quarters straight while in the church missions home.

One of my favorite things~ the sun's rays beaming down through the clouds

From my picture journal...

Bless his heart!

2010-01-25T15:58:00.001-08:00

Our deputation has once again taken us to Texas! We started last Thurday and finally arrived on Saturday. . . . the kids can only take so much time in the car. LOL Noah was getting pretty antsy sitting between his two sisters and finally said, "Is the pastor getting our house in Croatia for us?" Kevin and I just looked at each other. I think he thought our whole drive was taking us to Croatia to finally get our new home! =( Poor sweetheart, he doesn't know what it's like to have a place of our very own!

Pray for us that deputation will end soon and that we can keep things as normal as possible while we travel. It is hard, but we do the best we can with what God gives us as far as providing places to stay while we travel.

I think our kids have been ready for a long time to finally make the move.

Judgement Day

2010-01-21T19:55:00.000-08:00

If God should say,
on Judgement Day,
Did you clean your house today?

I will say,
no I did not,
I played with the children
and I forgot!

Just a little something to humor you! I think we as mothers spend so much time wanting our homes "perfect", when in reality it will never be. Our children are growing up right before our eyes and we are missing out. Before you dust one more picture, or scrub one more tub. . . stop to hug and kiss your children. Find out what's going in with them in their little world. It's okay, you can even get on the floor and be silly too. Go ahead, nobody's looking, I'll join in with you! ;)

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-01-21T12:38:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY
January 21, 2010...

Outside my window... it is raining and COLD

I am thinking... about all that has to be done in order to leave for Croatia

I am thankful for... my husband who loves me even when I'm hard to get along with!

From the learning rooms... Erin is currently learning her multiplication facts & in language she is working on some creative writing assignments. Allyson is adding in arithmetic and learning more special sounds in phonics in help her to continue to read well.

From the kitchen... the kitchen is temporarily closed due to deputation

I am wearing... a blue/green warm-up suit

I am creating... scrapbooks to record our memories in

I am going... to eventually end up in Houston, Texas by Saturday (Lord willing)

I am reading... my Bible through in a year

I am hoping... and praying that we can get to Croatia by Spring- deputation is taking its toll on me

I am hearing... the kids playing quietly in the backseat and the radio on in the front

Around the house... we are not home this week, check back next week

One of my favorite things... is knowing that God loves me even when I'm unlovely

A few plans for the rest of the week: make it to each hotel safely and do our best to get school done, drive safely to Houston, Texas, attend the services at Bible Baptist Church in Brady Texas (present the burden for Croatia)

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

2010-01-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

WOW it's almost. . . . 01/01/10!

2009-12-30T12:30:00.000-08:00

It is amazing how time passes us by! We've celebrated birthdays, taken vacations, started school, given thanks, and exchanged gifts. It's now time once again to make those resolutions that we know we won't keep. . .or will we???

For our family a NEW YEAR means that we will have been on FULL TIME DEPUTATION for 4 years!!! That's a long time some may say... "are you sure you're really called?" My answer to that is this, "Every missionary is different and cannot be compared to another." God has a perfect plan for us and has never made a mistake in using us. We have learned to be flexible and how to have FAITH when ALL else seemed lost. Sure, deputation has been hard, but God & His people have been so good to us. Timing is everything, and His timing is what we need. I have wanted to be in Croatia for a long time, not just to get back on a normal schedule and routine, but to hopefully make a difference in the life of a precious Croatian soul. In reality, what is normal? It is certainly not living in a foreign country where you don't know the language or the people! However, it will be our "new normal". . . . hopefully soon!

Pray for us, we are almost at 75% and are praying about making the move this spring.

. . . . . . .It's What?

2009-12-26T18:40:00.000-08:00

The Dr. at Patient First told me that I had a minor break and so he wrapped it and gave me crutches. I was then sent to the orthopedic Dr. the next day to get a better look at my ankle. It was really hurting and still swollen and bruised. This doctor told me that it was not broken, but badly sprained. The tendons in my ankle were just stressed out from repeated times where I have hurt it.
......So, he gave me something called an "Air Boot" that I have to wear all day when I'm on my feet. I have to do this for three weeks and then go back for him to look at it again. We will see what comes of this I guess.

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

2009-12-21T09:08:00.000-08:00

We FINALLY got what the weatherman said we were going to get..... SNOW! My children have only seen it a few times and were thrilled to bits! Erin, Ally, and Noah were not all that happy to be bundled up, but when the door opened all of the whining stopped. Everyone had fun with snow angels, snowmen, snowball fights etc...... except for me! I stepped on the snow the wrong way and twisted my ankle twice. You can only guess what the Dr. told me the next day..........

Wow "32"

2009-12-21T08:54:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that I am 32 years young! LOL I don't know where time goes, but each year goes by quicker than the last! (that's for sure) My sweet husband did great this year with the chocolate cake, and oh did I mention this.... the Rockettes? I have always wanted to see them live. Plans fell perfectly into place and we were able to go to D.C. and see them, stay free in a hotel, and eat a nice dinner for next to nothing! All of this happened while God was sending snow our way! Our 2 hour car ride home turned into almost 4 hours.... I thought we would never make it home! Praise the Lord we made it though!

Wsihful Thinking

2009-12-21T08:42:00.000-08:00

Well, I thought that by having my blog as my Homepage, that it would encourage me to blog more often. I guess that was just "wishful thinking". Life has a way of making you busier than you ever intend to be. Maybe things will slow down for us once we get to Croatia! ;o)

Knifty Knitting Projects

2009-10-31T20:23:00.000-07:00

I had alot of time on my hands while traveling in the car so I desided I would try my hands at knitting!!! This is coming from a momma who is still working on a baby blanket since my first pregnancy back in 2001! LOL The traditional way that is.... until... I found this cool contraption called the Knifty Knitter. The first set I bought looked like a set of hoops to make hats of differents sizes and anything else round. The second set I bought at the craft store with a 50% off coupon, they are rectangle and make scarves, blankets, and if you are really good, you can put together fancier projects.

So far I have made an infant cap for a new nephew that is coming in December and a scarf for one of my girls. I am almost finished with a second scarf for my other daughter. I love those things. Today, I picked up another project book for when I get really good. Maybe one day I will learn to knit and crochet with just the needles.

* I will post pics as soon as I can *

Let's Get on the Road

2009-10-31T19:48:00.000-07:00

Deputation this summer was very productive and kept us out in the midwestern states almost all of our summer. We were blessed by the response from many of the churches in wanting to give us the support we need and even by the ones who couldn't. God know just which churches we need on our team, I think that is one reason why we have not lost any support yet. He has given us good churches who have been FAITHFUL. HOWEVER, that is not to say that we won't lose support because we all know things happen! Deputation has taught us to have complete FAITH in Him. It has also taught us to NEVER underestimate a church because of it's size. Some of our biggest and most faithful supporters are those small congregations!

Fall has taken our deputation out to the midwest once again. I think our car doesn't know what to do if our trip is any less than 10 hours. =) Churches have really seen the need and responded, three more churches have promised us their support! They have been so good to us!!! It is a blessing when a church shows us they care about what we are doing. One of our Missions Conferences our family received a list to fill out concerning our needs. Then each night we gave two needs to the church. When the week was over, they presented us with what we had asked for. God is so GOOD to us, He went over and beyond what we needed. A Mission Conference doesn't always happen like that, but it is a true blessing when it does!

We have two more meetings before Thanksgiving and then have a break from traveling until Christmas is over... that is unless someone calls us and we can make it!

Better Late than Never

2009-10-31T19:29:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

It's Been a While

2009-10-06T20:01:00.000-07:00

There was so much I wanted to post from the summer, but time just got away from me. Maybe I'll post some of the high lights from our summer =). I think I can safely say that fall is upon us! It certainly is one of the most wonderful times of the year!! Apple pie, cool & crisp air, sweaters, hot cocoa, a dazzling color show of leaves. How GREAT is our GOD!
We are currently trying to finish our deputation and get to the field God called us to. NEEDED- a few good supporting churches! Actually we are going to be quite busy this fall with Missions Conferences. PTL! =) I don't know for sure when we'll be able to go, but HE does, and will get us there in His timing.

UPDATE on NOAH: We took him to Children's hospital on Sept. 18 and met with the team. He weighed in at 23 lbs and is getting taller too. This means that he has no lost but gained weight. (2 lbs to be exact) Some how they were not completely satisfied according to the CDC growth chart for a 3 year old boy. In my opinion and his pediatrician we think he is doing great. Baby steps are better than nothing. He is also doing better not packing his cheeks with food. I wish I could say that he will gain another 5 lbs like they want. Time is what that is going to take. As long as he is eating a variety of food and swallowing it all with no problems I am satisfied. We will leave the rest up to the Lord. He is well enough to go to Croatia with us and that is the most important thing!

I WILL NEVER FORGET THIS DAY

2009-09-10T20:54:00.000-07:00

I remember where I was today 8 years ago. I was laying on the couch 9 months pregnant(actually 1 day from my due date). I remember waking up and looking at the t.v. only to see horror unfolding right before my eyes. The second plane had just hit the tower and I remember thinking what kind of world was my first daughter going to grow up in.

I will never forget those who lost loved ones on that sad day. I cry for those children who lost a parent or whose parent went to war so that my daughters and son could have freedom in America.

We've got to get America back to God.

Ice Cream & Singing

2009-08-09T20:32:00.000-07:00

Today was my very first time making home made ice cream for the church social! It was our annual Singspiration & Ice cream Fellowship tonight. A night where we can be blessed by the Word of God in song and also fill our stomachs with summer's creamy goodness. I know that I left tonight with my cup filled and running over. What a wonderful day we had between the mornings service and this evening. By the way... If Satan has taken your stuff, tell him YOU WANT IT BACK!!! An awesome challenge from the Word today. Don't give in and let him have what belongs to YOU.

We are so glad to be home for a little while anyway. Soon enough it will be time to hit the road again and start school.

Hope that you all had a wonderful Lords' Day!

FACEBOOK ANYONE?

2009-07-28T12:07:00.000-07:00

I'm afraid that I too have been distracted by FB! It just sucks you in and helps you to waste lots of time while chatting with friends. Summer has been good to us while were are here in Ohio. It's not too hot or too cold, but just right! =) Now Texas was another story, need I say more! We have also picked up some unexpected support from a few churches as well. That is always good! ;0) We can't wait to get home though and see our family. It's been good to catch up.

COOL!

2009-06-22T20:46:00.000-07:00

The A/C is fixed, just a little cleaning needed to the outside unit. Praise the Lord for that!!

Look what was waiting for us in the breakfast room at our hotel. A waffle maker in the shape of TEXAS! Who would have ever thought to invent something like that.

While we are on the subject of food; I started a cooking and food blog the you can visit if you click HERE.

All American Girl

2009-06-16T21:26:00.000-07:00

Allyson officially turned six years old today. I can't believe that is even possible, but sadly it is. I miss some aspects of when she was an infant...the sleeping, sweet faces, and cooing. However, I'm glad she is very independent now and is growing into a sweet young lady.

We celebrated today at American Girl in Dallas. No we didn't get a doll and all the acesories to go with it. Although, we wish we could have. We had cake and ice cream in the Bistro and they got to pick out a doll to sit with at the table. Everything was going just fine until they brought the cake out with no warning and started singing. I was so upset- I didn't have time to get my camera ready or anything. Before I knew it, everything was over! I didn't get a picture of her and her cake or video her either. When we got back to the mission house, I contacted the manager to let him know how upset I was plus the fact that the cake was stale. (I was nice about it. =) The only thing he could offer me was another cake for her in September (for picture purposes) when we are back in Texas for more meetings and our oldest daughter will be turning 8. I don't know... what would you do?

*pictures will come soon, I hope!*

The Heat Is On

2009-06-14T21:05:00.000-07:00

We arrived in Texas yesterday at our mission house to find the a/c barely working. It was already in the 90's, so it was really hot inside. After eating dinner out, we got it to work somewhat enough to stay the night. Today, we had two services to attend and the pastor already had a hotel for us. =) We are grateful! Pray they will find out what is wrong and that it does not cost too much to fix.

All in all we had a pretty profitable day with our meetings. We have also found a new love in Texas... The Golden Chick- fried chicken and okra. Hope that you all had a great Lord's Day.

Packed with Love

2009-06-11T17:49:00.000-07:00

The children are done with school for the summer =0) and have been looking for things to keep them busy while on deputation. Yesterday we went to Wal*Mart and picked out some things they thought our friends in Croatia might be missing. They had fun doing it and I think it helped them appreciate what they have for now anyway. We will be in the same predicament hopefully very soon joining the Leslie Family and the work in Croatia. Erin & Allyson kept saying, "You mean they can't get _____________ in Croatia?" every time we added something new. ( I almost let some of our surprises out of the bag!) We hope to mail the box tomorrow before we hit the road again to Decatur,Texas on Saturday.

GUEST BLOGGER- Erin- 7 1/2

2009-06-10T09:49:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun petting the horses. Mom even took a picture of them. Ally wanted to ride one.

GUEST BLOGGER- ALLY BROWN- almost 6

2009-06-10T09:36:00.000-07:00

I HAD FUN WITH MY FRIENDS. WE HAD MY BIRTHDAY EARLY. I'M ALMOST 6.

A Testimony of Mercy & Grace

2009-05-24T13:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Daddy took the girls into the baptistry to show them what happens when you get baptized to ease their fears and answer any questions before the big day today. They got to get in the tub and walk through it. They thought that was cool! Erin was saved at the beginning of our deputation time and has been unsure up until now to get baptized. Ally was saved the weekend before Easter last year and wanted to get baptized with Erin. We are so excited for their decisions to baptized and I think they are too! They also shared their special day with their cousin Brianne who was baptized as well! We are praying that their testimony will touch the heart of someone and bring them closer to Christ.

Mother's Day Memories

2009-05-13T11:08:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox photobook

They call me Mommie

2009-05-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all today! What a great responsibility we have in raising our daughters and sons to live a life that is pleasing to the Lord in this day and time that we live. I became a mother almost 8 years ago with my first daughter Erin Mercy, then 20 months later came Allyson Grace. Three years later we were blessed with little Noah Justice. I am so thankful for these little blessings in my life. It is truly a priveledge to be called Mommie.

Sooo Busy!

2009-04-21T20:50:00.000-07:00

Since we've been home frome the midwest, things have been hopping around here! Four of us went to the dentist and left with no cavities. =) Erin came down with the Norovirus and was so sick that she had to be admitted to the hospital for dyhydration. Thankfully, we only had to stay one day.

UPDATE ON NOAH: Noah went to Children's Hospital on 4/17/09 to see how much he had grown and see how he was eating. Sadly, he only gained 2 oz. since last August, which they were not happy about. I told them that I was pleased that he had not lost any with as much as we were traveling. Reccomendations- continue three meals and try to get vegetables in him @ one meal =) (everything boosted), 16 oz boosted milk, 2 high calorie snacks. Easy? Not quite! Especially when your trying to homeschool two girls who would rather be playing! Did I mention that I have to write everything he eats down? =( In my opinion, he is doing well with only minor packing issues now. We can only take is one day at a time. His next appointment is July 9 to see how he is progressing.

WEIGHT LOSS PROGRESS: None =( I saw the doctor for health concerns and joint aching. Everything checked out okay testing wise. I have exercises to do to strengthen my legs and relieve the aching. Hopefully I will get back on track soon.

Little Irish Blessings

2009-03-17T21:30:00.000-07:00

Our family has been blessed with three beautiful red headed children and also the infamous attitude that goes with it! ;) I can't complain though, because they are pretty well behaved when they need to be!! We are grateful for this. You wouldn't believe how many times people say how much they love their hair and wish they had the same color. People also ask where they got their color from. I guess they can't tell that I once had red hair too, but now it's not as red :( My family has a little of the Irish heritage, my maiden name was Casey. Blessings to you today, whether you're Irish or not.

BIG Blessings in TEXAS

2009-03-08T12:57:00.000-07:00

We have been in a Missions Conference here in Bowie TX since Wednesday at Bible Baptist Church. They have been the biggest blessing to us and the other missionaries~ you can tell they have a real heart for missions. The children had a blast playing with the other MK's~ our Noah met another Noah Brown. How COOL was that!? The kids loved their gift bags with special toys and the welcome bags in our hotel room with goodies. What a blessed time we had. Praise the Lord for such wonderful southern hospitality!

THANKFUL

2009-03-04T08:44:00.000-08:00

We are so THANKFUL to have found the Leslie Family missionaries to Croatia! We surrendered to the field of Croatia back in 2004 not knowing of any other IFB missionary in the whole country. We were a little nervous of that fact wondering how in the world we would start a ministry there. We were just trusting that He would see us through. One night searching the internet to my surprise I Googled "missionaries in Croatia" and the Leslies website was the first in the list to pull up! That was a big answer to our prayers!! We emailed them and almost immediately heard back from them. Our families got to meet in June of 2007 and talk over lunch about our burdens for the people of Croatia. This precious family has been a great encouragement to us already and is faithfully praying for our arrival to this very needy country. How can we ever say thank you enough? Please pray for us to be able to arrive by the end of the summer.

The SIMPLE Life

2009-03-04T07:59:00.000-08:00

On Monday our month long stay at the Shepherd's Bethel came to an end. We enjoyed ourself so much there in the home they provided for us! Life was lived very simply- we were only 20 minutes from Walmart, but 1 hour or more from any other shopping mall or anything. Needless to say we only went out when it was necessary! =) We also did not have a TV, which was probably a good thing. It is hard though when you are used to having one. Every Friday night we played games and watched movies on our computer and Daddy made homemade popcorn on the stove. YUM The kids favorite game was "Flashlight hide the animal"- they hid a toy from the cereal box and we turned the lights out and used the light to find it. I think everyone had fun despite not having alot of things at the house. We did get to meet lots of other missionaries there and made new friends. I will try to add the link for the Shepherd's Bethel later. Enjoy the pictures from our stay!

March Already?!

2009-03-01T06:17:00.000-08:00

The first day of March finds me writing this blog post in the car on the way to church. We are driving 2 hours to Kentucky so the kids are watching a movie in the backseat, dad's driving, and I can't believe it is already MARCH. Where does the time go to? Well, I don't have long, well be there in 20 minutes. I hope that you all have a great day in the Lord today.

2009-02-11T12:02:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

That was PAINFUL!

2009-01-26T20:38:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to change the background on this blog for the longest time without any success! I've seen so many, and thought oh how I wish mine could look like that! I think that I follow directions pretty well, but it just did not want to work for me. Until now! I think that three children tucked quietly in their beds had something to do with it!

2009-01-08T15:15:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

On the Road Again!

2008-09-21T20:27:00.000-07:00

It's time to hit the ground running again! We are sad to see summer end, but are excited about traveling again!! This trip will take us up to New York where we will stay until Thanksgiving at least. It is a whole different world up north, so please pray for us.

Eat more CUPCAKES!

2008-06-14T14:36:00.000-07:00

We will officiallyhave a new five year old on June 16th . However we celebrated early with friends at Chick-fil-A. Ally had about 10 friends from church to help her eat the Barbie cake that I made. Ally had a lot of fun playing, eating, and especially opening presents. If they could just stay little longer!

BIG Changes!!!

2008-05-26T20:22:00.000-07:00

Many of you already know that Noah became sick with RSV at Christmas. He stopped eating for us and only weighed a mere 14 lbs. 2 oz. After being in the hospital a week, he came home for Christmas.
In February, Kevin started our meetings out in the Midwest. Noah started feeding therapy at Children's Hospital 3 times a week. It was a rough start with Kevin being gone and the girls and I doing school and juggling Noah! However, we made it with God's strength!! Kevin got to come home twice before finally returning home for good last week. Everyone was glad to have him home.

THE BROWN FAMILY ON THE ROAD!

2008-02-06T21:25:00.000-08:00

Our family answered the call to the country of Croatia back in 2004. We were approved with the BBFI in 2005 & started full time deputation January 1 2006. Since then our life has been like a whirlwind. We have been "blown" all over the US sharing our burden for the Croatian people. A lot has happened since we started traveling: we added a new baby boy to our family, upgraded to a BIG van, & the girls have started BIG school. Even though we are almost finished with our deputation we hope that you will follow us as we finish our journey!

How Does This Work Any Way?!

2007-09-22T20:02:00.000-07:00

This is my very first time bloggin'! I hope that the things posted will be an encourgement, a blessing, and maybe even make you laugh to all who visit and read!