Gently Led

The Rhythm is Gonna Get You

2012-01-19T12:52:00.000+03:00

Life establishes a rhythm, doesn’t it? Whether we are highly disciplined or not (me!), our lives establish rhythms and these provide cadence to our steps. In our garage/storage room we have a mountain of very nice luggage. Our bag of choice is currently a sturdy duffel with wheels. We have about 17 of them. (I haven’t actually counted, so that is an approximate number.)

"Raindrops on Roses..."

2011-12-21T13:40:00.000+03:00

The Cashlings. J'adore. My Starbucks Thermal Coffee Press. Imperative and delightful. The cup I use is a very important component to my 'Coffee Experience' every day. Currently these are my two favorites. My Mom gave me the striped one. I bought the black and white one in Kampala. The Icing of the Christmas Cookies. Wouldn't be Christmas without this! This is on

To Wait

2011-12-03T00:14:00.001+03:00

“But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.” Micah 7: 7 This week I have waited: At the grocery store—for tomatoes At the oven—for food to warm For the generator—so we could enjoy the Christmas lights For the thermometer—so I would know if the fever broke For the tea kettle—so I could make coffee For the sunshine—so the clothes would dry

In Every Season

2011-11-21T18:58:00.000+03:00

(Grief is a difficult topic to write about. The experience of it is so deeply personal and unique to each individual circumstance and type of loss. I do not know how you approach this reading today. I only know that if you are flesh and blood, you most likely carry grief somewhere in your heart. Grief is not comparative or quantitative. But it does demand acknowledgement. This is my current

For These...

2011-11-09T10:50:00.000+03:00

These are the days that disappear too quickly. Every kid around our table. Funny. Making memories. They still like us and aren’t embarrassed by us (too much). We can have actual conversations about meaningful things. We can laugh. Their jokes have morphed (seemingly overnight) from ridiculous and nonsensical to ironic sarcasm that makes us laugh until tears flow. We’ve graduated to Star

As the Tan Fades

2011-10-15T13:06:00.000+03:00

I spent a lot of time in the sun during our beach stay. Fabulous. As I soaked in the rays, I was reminded of my junior high years. ‘Laying out’ was a favorite pastime among our middle school crowd and I was an eager participant for a certain season. Usually at Laura’s house. We would lay on her cement sidewalk on towels, with Big Gulps, a radio and a Seventeen magazine. We loved to take

The Gift of October 8th

2011-10-08T10:21:00.000+03:00

The suitcase made a tap-tapping sound as I bounced on it’s hard case. I stood on my tip-toes on the wobbly case, peering out the bedroom window. Mam-ma had just announced their arrival and I was eager for a glimpse. I could see the car. And Daddy. But Mom was still sitting in the car, and she was in her pajamas and robe. My hair was combed and tidied in barrettes. My clothes were clean and

Glorious

2011-10-05T22:29:00.000+03:00

Songs often get stuck in my head. As if someone has scanned the music library of my brain and hit repeat on a long forgotten melody. I’ve noticed lately, for instance, that every time I drive into town for groceries the song “Please Don’t Wait Until Dark” plays in my mind. Remember that song? “Please don’t wait until dark. Don’t wait for a rainy day just to pray. Find time to pray when

On Resources, Reserves, and Cool Accents

2011-10-01T20:05:00.000+03:00

One of our first friends in Fort Portal was a young lady from England named Kate. (shout out to you, Kate, if you ever happen to read this!) Kate was working at a village school near Fort Portal. She often talked about how difficult it was to motivate learning among her pupils when they were so “under resourced”. I wish at this point in the post for a sound button so that the term ‘

A Time to Write

2011-09-30T15:35:00.000+03:00

I love to write. Ever notice, in the whirl of life and responsibility, that the fun things can get squished of their life? Suffocated, if you will. Ignored. Left out. I do this all too often. Choose not to engage in the fun stuff because I’m too busy being responsible. This system fails me. Fails everyone, actually. Because….drumroll please….. I cannot be responsible for everything. (

We Walked Through Fire

2011-07-25T14:57:00.001+03:00

I couldn’t sleep Sunday night. I was at the end of a fabulous read and continued turning pages to find the conclusion. My head ached a bit and I could not stop thinking about the candle in the kids’ bathroom. Had they blown it out? I would dismiss the concern and go back to my book, but the flame of the candle was very present in my mind. Finally around 2:45AM, I put the completed book down

On Prayer, Relationship & A Strong Tenor Lead

2011-06-20T15:53:00.000+03:00

(This post has been sitting in drafts for a bit. It didn’t feel complete, and I also couldn’t release it , so I’ve returned to it almost every day. This afternoon, I pondered a Father’s Day entry and began perusing Daddy memories in my mind. And finally, this post found completion. The reason I had to wait was evident. God’s timing is perfect.) I followed a recent online discussion about

A Time to Remember

2011-06-09T14:03:00.000+03:00

Some seasons in life meander. Some just come crashing in. Both speak Him, when I listen. Faith Quest: God brought me to Revelation 3 and the church of Philadelphia just before Faith Quest began. The church in Philadelphia was few in number. Weak. Bearing wounds and constant persecution from the “religious” and “righteous”. The “righteous” who had more money and more “solid” history. But were

Shall We Pray?

2011-05-02T22:43:00.000+03:00

“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 1. Thank you Jesus for the land, lake and gorgeous view of the mountains at Camp Saka. 2. Thank you for the safety and protection you have provided through these years. 3. Thank you for safety on the roads. 4. Thank you for food to eat. 5. Thank you

Mama Yeshua

2011-04-23T16:55:00.000+03:00

(On this eve of another celebration of Jesus life, I am drawn again to thoughts of Mary. Below are my own humble musings concerning Mary's experience on that painful Friday.) Not what I expected. Again. His arrival had been so simple. Three of us. Joseph, me, Yeshua. The shepherds had come. The sweetness of his breaths. God’s promises. The angels. Ending here??! The chaos of the moment

Books

2011-04-21T15:21:00.001+03:00

Here's a sampling of some of my favorites over the last six months. Jesus Calling by Sarah Young Deeply meaningful each and every day. Boundaries by Dr Henry Cloud and Dr John Townsend Eye opening and convicting. Greatly impacting my choices and decisions daily. Paul 90 Days on His Journey of Faith by Beth Moore I have been very blessed by this Beth Moore series of books. She has the 90 Days

The Pain of Healing...

2011-04-11T13:41:00.000+03:00

(journaled thoughts following our family's visit to a genocide memorial in Rwanda) Piles of clothes. Piles. And piles. The stench of decay is strong. The entire area is hushed. Somber. We speak in low soft tones. Agonizing stories. Memories. Plaguing and oppressive. Horrors. Bones. I’m breathing in and out. But I feel suffocated. I want to apologize to our guide. I’m sorry she has to

Praying...

2011-03-23T12:05:00.000+03:00

Our Lord has graciously bound our hearts to others on this journey. He has promised to never leave or forsake us and many times He keeps His promise through the hearts of dear friends and sweet fellowship. Today, I am praying for two families on different sides of the world. Please pray for them too. **One family came into our lives many years ago. They were ending an amazing adventure of

Proclaiming in the Dark

2011-03-12T16:40:00.002+03:00

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Eph 6:12 We are told that Satan has dominion in this world. And we can sometimes see signs of his cruel and unjust treatment. Last night, around midnight, a woman’s cry punched the quiet of

As Evening Fades...

2011-03-10T15:43:00.000+03:00

"Atwooki, Bye!" Araali's call resonates through the house, signaling the end of the work day. Our compound becomes only ours for a brief respite of time. I hasten through the food prep eager for a moment outside. During this fleeting moment. This perfect time of day. The noisy hordes of school children have passed our fence and found their way home. Dinner warms in the oven. The boys explode

It's About Time

2011-03-03T22:02:00.000+03:00

(Truest of confessions—I have struggled with the tense of this post. Past and present tense verbs have poured from my heart. What I did then. What I am doing now. I have decided to go with present tense. Primarily because I am not writing about a finished process. I am writing about a cycle that my life continues to churn through. It is my deepest desire to live victoriously, in Christ’s power,

True Love

2011-02-15T16:35:00.002+03:00

Eighteen years ago today, Jeff Cash informed me that I was the girl he would marry. It wasn't so much a proposal (that would come later) as it was a revelation. He had prayed. And he knew. I pondered the idea with joy but wondered what in the world we were getting ourselves into. Truth was, I knew it too. We were going to be married. But I needed more time to acknowledge the incredible gift.

For the Next Hour...

2011-02-11T14:57:00.000+03:00

“The answers God is willing to give us in our tomorrows often flow from our faithfulness when we have none today.” (Beth Moore John, 90 Days with the Beloved Disciple) A season. A time. Fleeting. The seasons don't always feel so fleeting though. Often, in the narrowness of my own sight, the painful steps seem endless. The seemingly apparent irresolution of suffering looms continual. And yet

Snapshots of Grace

2011-02-04T12:00:00.001+03:00

I first heard of the ailment when I was in kindergarten. Endearing snapshots emerge from my foggy kid-brain memory. My normally unflappable Dad’s deep concern. Missing school. Granny waving at me as Dad held her up in the bed. A stroke. Blod clots. Paralyzed. She spent her days in a brown swivel chair then. With a crocheted lap blanket over her legs. There was a wheel chair that would

The Voice of a King

2011-01-20T16:33:00.001+03:00

"Not everybody could be famous but everybody can be great because greatness is determined by service." — — Martin Luther King Jr. Martin Luther King, Jr quotes have peppered my Facebook updates and inspired my heart this week. Today though, another King is on my mind. M.D. King. Though Martin Luther King Jr. surely has more widespread and well known quotes--it is the voice of M.D. King

Mukama Onyirize

2011-01-20T14:31:00.000+03:00

She buried another child recently. There are two graves now with small headstones. The tears are long past. But the hollowness in her eyes is revealed as we talk. She shows me hospital notices. We discuss the labored days of care. I express my sorrow for her loss and we pray. Her carefully written notes are for Psalm 86. We read. As we ponder the words and the Psalmist’s heart… One

Stand Firm

2011-01-13T22:47:00.000+03:00

It was October. The day was warm. The equatorial sun was rising and gaining strength as mid day approached. Worship was in full swing for the town church. The meandering arrivals had slowed and the chairs were filled. The worship songs had us on our feet. The opened tent flaps beat time to the rhythmic cadence of the praise chorus. One song after another. Swahili. English. Luganda. Runyankore.

Table Turning

2011-01-04T00:11:00.000+03:00

We have a small white table that sits in the center of our kitchen. It is oval shaped and from the day it began inhabiting our cooking space, it sat East-West. Two days ago, I turned the table. It now sits North-South. My family was astounded and the redirected oval has drawn much commentary. “Um. Mom. What’s wrong in here?” “Hey. Did you move something?” “”Wow! There is more room.” “I

Things Were Not As I Expected

2010-12-21T22:23:00.000+03:00

(No journal of Mary's thoughts exists. But I would so love to know all that passed through her mind and heart as she awaited Jesus' arrival. I have recorded my own guess at her experience here. The retelling of Christ's birth and early life can be found in Matthew 1-2 and Luke 1-2 ) Things were not exactly as I expected. From the moment that angel told me God’s plan and I accepted His will,

Light and Momentary

2010-12-18T11:23:00.000+03:00

Four long hours. I had to try. Something in my idealistic nature still alive after years of brusque reality. Our bill is wrong. It has been wrong for too many years to divulge. We have written letters, requested technicians and endured mocking disdain from the officials who refuse to correct their mistakes. Most simplistically, we have been robbed. And we may not be able to prove it. So.

Counting FIsh

2010-12-17T23:05:00.000+03:00

(excerpts from a letter of thanks sent at the end of our furlough) “I’m going out to fish,” Simon Peter told them, and they said, “We’ll go with you.” So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” “No,” they

Returning

2010-12-16T11:32:00.000+03:00

Our children are giddy. Ecstatic. “I’m so happy to be back, Mom!” The congested streets and red-dirt-covered scenes around us flood us with familiarity. Knowing the schedules and the shops and how to make a plan. Jostling crowds at check outs. No queues, only clumps. My elbows popping out to stake our claim in the semblance of a line. Greetings from the ARA staff we have known since our

Heartache

2009-12-05T14:02:00.002+03:00

I stood by the grave with Agnes and some friends. Moments earlier her tears had poured as I stepped out of the car. She couldn’t say much. Just two words repeatedly. “So sad. So sad.”She shook the hands of each person exiting the vehicles. We were all silent. After a brief moment of no one knowing exactly where to look or what to say, Agnes led us to the freshly filled grave. There were several

Thankful Mondays

2009-09-14T19:55:00.005+03:00

-pretty toes-girl's day out-good friends-good news-hot coffee-a great series of books-oreo ice cream-new football games to watch-hearing my niece's sweet, sweet voice for the first time(Join the crowd! )

"Cutter, Cutter, Peanut Butter"

2009-09-08T11:26:00.002+03:00

The school term begins this week in Uganda. Which means that school fees are being paid en masse at banks across this land.I have been paying fees for awhile now. Start early. That’s the secret. Unfortunately, “early” is not an easy thing for me. So, it was with firm resolve that I walked up the stairs of the bank last Thursday at 11AM. Yep. Almost midday. The line was all the way to the door.

Thankful for...

2009-09-02T23:23:00.004+03:00

---a moment alone on the porch with a cup of tea and a cool breeze---fajitas!---American football---long conversations with my husband---chocolate frozen desserts---my daughter cooking breakfast---older siblings leading younger siblings through reading and math---completed tasks---new school books---speaking Rutoro to children

Mojo Magic

2009-08-17T11:47:00.003+03:00

I went to a wonderful high school some years ago.20 years ago. I know! I can’t believe that either. ☺But nevertheless, the time, it passes.As I perused FB photos from the reunion this last week, I remembered many things about high school. The memories are random and in no particular order. Which is pretty much life for me these days.So. High school. 1. My graduating class had @650 graduates. I

"MOM!!!!"

2009-08-15T00:28:00.002+03:00

Remarkable things follow that familiar cry. Sometimes love. Sometimes tears. And sometimes…“He peed on my stomach and now I HAVE to take a bath.”“We were playing the game where we hit our heads against each other’s knees…” “There are nine rats in our closet.”It’s never boring around here!

A Glimpse

2009-07-30T23:02:00.007+03:00

Glimpse: a momentary or partial view Silas stopped by the kitchen for his snack break. It had been a whole 5 minutes since his last request for chocolate. A request that scored a banana. He was back to try again. He could not stand still. Arms tugging at his shirt and hands tapping the table and eyes darting around the room. “Mom. Could I have something to eat….like chocolate?” I pause to take in

2009-07-28T23:19:00.004+03:00

106. Silas and Jotham laughing over a silly joke.107. Isaac reading a book.108. Anticipation of fellowship.109. Healing.110. Enough Velveeta to make Queso.111. Sharing Queso with friends!112. Praying with brave women.113. Comfy jeans.114. Helpful kiddos.115. A very hot cup of tea.Thankful for all of these...

Rescue

2009-07-20T13:26:00.006+03:00

"He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support. He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me." 2 Samuel 22: 17-20I pray this scripture often throughout my recent days. Seems

Prayer Cover

2009-06-12T08:38:00.004+03:00

UpdateKevin regained conciousness Friday evening and is sustaining breathing on his own. Praise the Lord! Please continue to pray for his complete healing.Will you pray for our friends today?Kevin and JD are friends who served as missionaries in Bundibugyo for over a decade. They founded a secondary school. Their four children are the ages of ours. They relocated to the US last year and recently

Goodbyes and Grace

2009-06-11T11:00:00.001+03:00

And here we are again. That word. Goodbye.In January of 1995 Jeff and I arrived, with our vehicle and 9 rubbermaid trunks to Kagote housing district, Ft Portal. We had no beds. No table. No stove. No furniture.Whew. We also had no friends. In our pockets were two letters. One was for David and one was for the LC5, a local government official. We would eventually meet those two men, but for some

The Wedding Ring

2009-06-08T14:31:00.001+03:00

I love my wedding ring. It is, just what I wanted. Jeff and I were poor when we began wedding plans. We were poor and set on living our life in Africa. I decided that a plain, simple wedding band would suit me just fine. I love diamonds but financially and practically it didn’t seem the time for diamonds. We could save and invest in some gems later. Jeff decided differently.One time he asked me

The Tent

2009-05-11T22:07:00.001+03:00

Not enough words in the world to describe the journey to this moment. Fort Portal Church of Christ. Worshiping on their land. In the tent. Of course, there will always be a next step. The church land committee is working towards the laying of a cement floor. The full length tent will be set up on this floor. But for now, in true Ugandan fashion, we set up what we can. Meet on our land. And, mpora

And Then There Was April...

2009-05-01T21:59:00.003+03:00

Isaac sighs with a glance at the calendar.“April has been a long year.”(Smile)Some months feel that way don’t they? We’ve had much to celebrate and rejoice over this month. So much activity, in fact, that sitting to write about it has been impossible. Too busy living it. There is much good in that too. So now, on this last day of a “long year”, here are the bullet points of the Cash family April.

Honoring the Miracle--Conclusion

2009-03-31T22:08:00.000+03:00

March 20. After a long night of intermittent labor and an early morning of excruciating work…One little girl changed our world forever. The cord was wrapped around her neck and tied into a knot. The doctor worked quickly and expertly cut the cord, loosening its hold on our baby’s airway. She took gasping breaths, while the rest of the delivery room held theirs. Her pinking up and loud wails

Honoring the Miracle Part IV

2009-03-30T21:45:00.000+03:00

At month 5, I turned a corner. I began to feel hungry again and managed to keep food down. I moved from my bed to the couch. I bathed. Praise Jesus, I felt that baby kick. I cry even now. Months passed and I gradually gained more strength. I rejoiced at my expanding middle and celebrated every movement in my womb. We made difficult decisions about where we would birth this child. We chose Nairobi

Honoring the Miracle Part III

2009-03-30T10:03:00.000+03:00

By God’s grace I completed the second cycle of malaria meds over the next week and slowly felt the malaria symptoms subside. There was no sonogram at that point in our town. No way to check on the baby. I panicked at every tummy cramp and longed to feel the baby move. Just to be sure. I began living in constant fear of another relapse. When the days would grow warm, I would fret. Was my sweating

Honoring the Miracle Part II

2009-03-29T20:00:00.001+03:00

We were in Kampala and had a very difficult trip ahead of us. I was holding in more liquids than before the malaria, but I was still feeling constant nausea (due to pregnancy). The bumpy, six hour ride home did not seem inviting. But we struck out anyway. We reached our house in Ft Portal on a Sunday morning, and found our town church waiting on the porch. Jeff led them in worship in our living

Honoring the Miracle Part I

2009-03-28T21:37:00.003+03:00

My thoughts have been overcome the last week with Kinley’s story. Our story. I kept a journal during that time for her, but feel compelled to write the story here to be sure that we never forget what God did for us in those telling times. I sank to depths, physically and emotionally, that I never had thought possible in my blessed, happy life. I feared devastation and often found myself there. I

Sunday Musings

2009-03-23T16:04:00.000+03:00

There was a rush to be ready this morning. The thunderous explosions and torrential downpour of the early morning hours disturbed our rest and our response to the alarm clock. I bustle and hustle little ones. All the while digging deep for motivation. Church services with young children when hubby is preaching are challenging experiences.Despite the late start, we manage our church departure.

Cartwheels Anyone?

2009-03-15T22:41:00.004+03:00

Taking the time to remember and utter thanks for simple, little things makes a difference in my day. I am reminded of an important truth when I mark those moments that bring a smile, a contented sigh or so much joy I think I could pull off cartwheels and back flips! The Truth is God's daily awareness of me and His activity in my life. God is personal. And Persistent. And Faithful. And Good. My

With Love, From Aunt Cheryl

2009-03-06T06:12:00.000+03:00

Dear Presley,Welcome to the world little girl! Are you aware of the fact that people in Africa were waiting for the news of your arrival?! Eagerly awaiting every tiny detail of You! You have hair! You weigh 7lbs! You are healthy! Every picture that floated over the web was studied and gushed over. Because, you are our treasure.And we are so happy you are here. I have not been able to hold you in

Virtually

2009-03-04T22:46:00.000+03:00

Virtual—Almost or nearly as described, but not completely or according to strict definitionIn Junior High I was a part of an English Literature program called Great Books. At the beginning of each school year we were given a compilation of ten or twelve stories. We had to read one story every few weeks. During our English class on “Great Books day” we would all sit in a circle and discuss the

Via Satellite and Miracles from God

2009-02-17T23:45:00.008+03:00

For many months the Cash Africa home has been enshrouded with the heavy cloak of internet silence. No World Wide Web. Ever. Oddly, a receipt paying for monthly service rests in the stack of paid bills. But no service for the payment. The Cash clan grew weary of that irony and Mr Cash set his sights to solve the problem. Satellite services were located. Negotiations began. Loads of equipment must

Marking This Moment

2009-01-20T22:52:00.006+03:00

I will not write about politics here. I'm sure I do not know enough. And even more than that, I'm sure someone would get mad. The discussion of politics can raise ire and great passion in many. But, I do have something to say about America. A new President was sworn in today. Reports said over one million people stood and sat within sight of the event. Security was tight. The pomp and ceremony

Nurturing a Grateful Heart

2009-01-19T12:53:00.006+03:00

Thank you Jehovah Jireh for:81. the resiliency of my children82. safe take-offs and landings in airplanes83. heroes84. being with my children85. my husband's willingness to manage the household solo so I could fly to a funeral86. healthy closure87. singing with our children88. tears with family89. laughter with family90. really good Mexican food91. reconnecting with long-lost friends92. my

I Choose to See it Positively

2009-01-07T06:20:00.009+03:00

I'm so thrilled to be able to post on this blog today. So thrilled. I love this blog. And I love writing stuff here. I also love and appreciate those of you who happen by and read."God has done great things for us and we are filled with joy!" Psalms 126:3 The following photos should get you up to speed on several blessings we've enjoyed over the last few months. Jeff celebrated his 40th year!

"I'll Be Looking For You, Then"

2009-01-05T19:38:00.009+03:00

It was January, 1994. Jeff and I had been married for half a year. Six WHOLE months. We had just celebrated Christmas and were now boarding a series of flights that would eventually land us in Kenya. Africa. The Dark Continent. I had no idea what I was getting into. I only knew, very clearly, that standing in that airport waiting area, hugging my family and our supporters was very easily the most

The House With the Shiny Sink

2008-11-13T23:15:00.002+03:00

I was six months old when it was purchased. Mom says we went to Sears and Roebuck the day of the big move and a Winnie the Pooh stuffed animal was purchased for me. I, apparently, chewed the nose off on the way home from the store. Our family moved alot through my younger years. I lived in several different houses. But Mam-ma's and Granddaddy's house was always the same. It was home. For all of

2008-10-20T22:16:00.004+03:00

I am slowly emerging. Exhaustion? Yes. It's here. Culture stress? Yes. Even after 13 years, the subtle nuances and stark contrasts of our culture of origin and the culture we reside in can overpower and fatigue.Broken hearts over goodbyes?Joy of hellos?It all intermingles into something called "Re-entry". We most often use the term to refer to returning to our original home. But I also think it

Early Furlough Impressions

2008-09-04T17:44:00.003+03:00

This is an excerpt from my musings during our first weeks of furlough travel. Enjoy!"Mom, Have You Seen My...?"Our vagabond days have begun. We missionaries pack up a four bags of clothes and African do-dads, secure tickets and visas and passports and the appropriate immigration stamps. And we fly. Then we land and can’t sleep well. Children who normally sleep for hours through the night wake up

"No Hill For a Stepper"

2008-08-30T00:14:00.005+03:00

Today’s furlough recap begins with a brief reminder of a story that I have yet to re-tell in its entirety: the Airplane Journey. For this post’s purposes however, I’m going to skip to the end of that story which involves a Cesna 206 that will soon be needing a protective home. My husband has been searching for several years now for a solution to that particular dilemma. Some months ago, Jeff

It's a Snazzy New Do!

2008-08-27T19:50:00.002+03:00

Check it out guys! Finally, after a long design journey I found Lara and she made my blog beautiful! I love the design and hope you do to. Thanks Lara! I loved working with you and appreciate your persistence even through the midst of a hurricane.Blessings everyone! (To see Lara's other work and check out her site click on her button in my side bar.)

Breathing In

2008-08-24T07:23:00.007+03:00

Because we found gas so cheap in America (wink, wink) we decided to do some driving while in California. You know. Economics. We headed south towards a certain Hilltop. There were some unbelievable servants there who we needed to speak with in person. As we waited for Sunday to roll around, we sauntered and strolled the boulevards and lanes of the Happiest Place on Earth. Which, unfortunately,

California

2008-08-12T16:57:00.002+03:00

We dreamed of this moment for many reasons. First this:Then this:Then this:Our missionary community in Uganda is a blessing to us. As we share meals made from scratch and wade through struggles in a foreign place together we often dream of what it would be like to grab a quick meal at a fast food restaurant or shop in an American store! We were so thrilled to meet up with the Calhoon family (from

American Soil

2008-08-04T22:13:00.008+03:00

Our flight from Dubai took a mere 16 hours.Let me just say that again for emphasis.Sixteen hours.Only if you are a parent of a very active preschooler can you understand the depths of fear such a time frame can instill. We discussed our plans long and hard before buying the tickets.Would we survive a 16 hour flight with four kids?The answer was a very blessed "Yes!" But we do not boast

Dubai

2008-08-04T01:25:00.001+03:00

Our physical journey began in May. Our battle weary souls were prayed over and hugged away from our foreign home by the Longs and Martins. We checked in at the airport with blessed little fanfare. Even the expected immigration issues, (Silas passport stamp was held up and delayed) went smoothly and easily. After months of planning and preparing we found our travel experienced selves seated on the

Home Ministry Assignment

2008-08-02T07:05:00.003+03:00

For many years overseas missionaries have been known to take a "furlough". This is commonly understood as a time to visit one's home country, visit family, report to sending churches and perhaps rest from the strain of overseas life. Recently, I heard "furlough" being referred to as "Home Ministry Assignment", the current mission-speak for home leave. I appreciate what this term conveys. We are

More Thanks

2008-07-14T07:47:00.000+03:00

61. Time to "get away from it all".62. Johnny Rockets chocolate milkshakes63. Cool water on a hot day64. Airconditioning65. Organized taxi systems66. Chinese take out67. Naps68. Mom and Dad waiting at the airport69. The safe ending of a long flight70. Blue bell ice cream71. Blue bell ice cream72. Blue bell ice cream :-)73. Shopping with my Mom and my daughter74. My boys trailing after Papa75. My

One Incredible Journey

2008-06-30T21:52:00.008+03:00

"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: 8What 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

Oh, So Very...

2008-05-25T07:22:00.000+03:00

Thankful.And here is a list to prove it...31. Hot fudge cake.32.Ty's visit33. 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 laugh37. Cuddling with Anaiah38. Prayer time with the team39. Sleep40. A definite plan41. Hope42. Cool weather and a hot cup of tea43. Pale pink nail polish44. Iced sugar cookies45.

God's Perfect Gifts

2008-05-21T11:24:00.002+03:00

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

The Blessing of Fellowship

2008-05-20T10:57:00.001+03:00

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.

A Big Metal Box--Conclusion

2008-05-18T08:57:00.001+03:00

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

A Big Metal Box--Part Two

2008-05-17T17:21:00.000+03:00

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

A Big Metal Box--Part One

2008-05-16T09:27:00.000+03:00

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

Hoping

2008-05-03T23:49:00.005+03:00

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

Prayers on the Bathroom Floor

2008-04-12T12:33:00.009+03:00

Some months ago, on the floor of Destiny's bathroom, I asked God for this moment.Destiny was struggling through the excruciating pain of a kidney infection that had started pre term labor. I did as any stable, supportive friend would do...I sat on the floor and cried with her. And I prayed. I asked God to protect and save the life she carried in her womb. We asked God to make little Audrey move

These Ten Things

2008-03-20T21:50:00.008+03:00

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

Ty's Visit

2008-03-07T21:28:00.000+03:00

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

Four?!?!?

2008-03-06T14:57:00.003+03:00

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

An Update of Mammoth Proportions

2008-03-03T15:00:00.002+03:00

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

Faith Quest

2008-03-03T14:55:00.000+03:00

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,

Smore Fest 2008

2008-03-03T14:53:00.000+03:00

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

"Blest Be the Tie that Binds"

2008-03-03T14:51:00.000+03:00

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

How to Eat a Cookie

2008-03-03T14:50:00.000+03:00

Smile with charm.Go for the bite.Oh so very good!Kiss it!by Silasage 4

The Decorating of the Cookies

2008-03-03T14:45:00.000+03:00

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

Eight Years and Counting

2008-03-03T14:30:00.001+03:00

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,

A Word About the Spotlight

2008-01-30T09:39:00.000+03:00

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

Whew!

2008-01-14T20:40:00.000+03:00

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.

Crashin'

2008-01-08T23:55:00.000+03:00

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

Looking Back...

2007-12-26T16:36:00.001+03:00

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,

Focus

2007-12-21T09:56:00.000+03:00

13. Sunday dinner14. Isaac washing dishes15.Christmas lights16.Electricity17. Clean laundry (folded and put away)18.Overnight getaway with Jeff19.Naps20.Very cold chocolate mousse21.Four wonderful meals cooked for me and served to me!22. Elephants playing in the water23. Wrapped Christmas gifts24. Surprises25. Safe travels26. Anaiah's smile27. Audrey's safety28. Prayer29. The Great Physician30.

Remember

2007-12-17T11:21:00.000+03:00

I do not remember much about That Day.October 3, 1995.The months and weeks preceding it are mostly a blur as well. Goodbyes. Tears. Unknowns. Many hopes and dreams.It was a relief and a stabbing pain to board the plane. I was relieved to be done with the packing, the sorting, the buying.It was a stabbing pain in my heart to think of all the dearest, most precious ones we had hugged goodbye.When

At the Same Time

2007-12-10T10:31:00.000+03:00

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

Prayer Cover

2007-12-05T11:27:00.000+03:00

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: 12To 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

Sunday Dinner

2007-12-02T23:56:00.000+03:00

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

Thanksgiving Day Re-Cap

2007-11-25T19:39:00.000+03:00

The Bird.The Visiting. The Sweet Girls.The Friends.The Force to be Reckoned With.The Love.I hope your holiday weekend was splendid!