I joined my dad for worship at our home church this morning. A high schooler, the daughter of one of my supporters, sang a special. She has a beautiful voice. But more than that, the Lord used the song she sang, Breath of Heaven, to touch my heart.

I was quietly weeping as I was reminded of a sacrifice I may need to make, in view of God's unique calling on my life to serve on behalf of the unreached.

Even though any sacrifice I may make is puny compared to Christ's ultimate denial of self and the horrible pain He suffered for me-- AND I know that if He has me make the sacrifice in this particular instance it will likely mean something better in the future--it doesn't mean it's not still really hard at times.

O Lord, work in me, I pray, that I would cry tears, not of self pity, but rather of weeping for a lost world and people on the other side of it that still need to hear of Your precious gift for them.

Today I received word of a tremendous earthquake and resulting tidal wave, causing the deaths of thousands-- more than 10,000 people, and close to 2,500 in Sri Lanka alone, and 1,600 in India. It broke my heart to think of the many lives lost, just like that--precious souls that may not have had the opportunity to hear about Jesus before they died (Hebrews 9:23).

O, how I wish everyone on this earth would embrace Jesus and His salvation, so that not one person would suffer for eternity in hell. (2 Peter 3:9)

Christmas Day. To think, about 2,000 years ago today, Jesus came to be born in a manger and walk this earth and give His life to atone for sin so we could be saved by putting our trust in Him. How often do I truly grasp the wonder of this? Of His great love for me -- His great gift. How reassuring it is to know that I can trust Him -- no matter what. That His plan is always good and perfect. I love You, Lord. Thank you for coming to this earth ... for loving us so very much. Help me to more and more grasp this wondrous love and live my life in view of it.

Tonight we drove in from my grandmother's, where we were yesterday and today. I got together with my friend Heather and we exchanged gifts. We also went by and saw my cousins for a few minutes, at my aunt's and uncle's house. :o) And I got my combined birthday and Christmas gifts from my parents -- a food processor, a vacuum cleaner, and a crockpot, which I opened last night. I'm very excited about using these things in the new apartment!

Today I drove the nearly 600 miles back home to my parents. :o) It was a long drive, but around lunch time I stopped to see an old friend. We met up at Applebees and ate together. We even shared some yummy brownies and icecream. It was a blast! Too bad we don't live in the same town so we could hang out more. :o) The rest of the trip was pretty uneventful ... I did have some goofy photos taken to use up my roll of film. That was fun!

Tonight was our staff Christmas party. As I looked around at the faces of all the people sitting at round tables throughout the room, I realized just how much they had become like family to me. I was reminded of what a special thing I have.

There were some funny skits that I really enjoyed -- especially an interactive one where we would make donkey noises and say things like "gold, frankencince and myrh" and "no problem" at different points in the Christmas story.

On a more serious note, later in the program we dimmed the lights and were each challenged to think of what it would be like to go through our lives unreached with the Gospel. At first I couldn't grasp or feel this in my heart -- but then I imagined myself being married and then having a child, and that somehow that child was taken from me, and sent to a remote village where he or she would grow up and live to an old age and die, without ever hearing about Jesus. I can't imagine!

I had such a nice weekend. My friend from work and I had such a good lunch on Saturday afternoon. Without even knowing it, she said some things that were so encouraging to what I was specifically going through at the time. From then on, the weekend was great!

The message was good Sunday. The Lord really used last week's message in a powerful way in my life -- I look forward to how He will use this week's. After church, a group of us from our S.S. class went and ate together. Quite fun!

I can't believe it's Friday already. This week has gone by so fast! There have been some struggles throughout it, although some good times, such as really nice fellowship over lunch, as well. I'm sooo looking forward to the weekend.

I'm so thankful for the Lord ... and for friends. Last night I went to a Christmas production with my S.S. class, and we'll all be hanging out for a game night this Saturday. : ) I can't wait! And tomorrow I'm going to lunch with a friend from work. I am so thankful for this close friend and how the Lord provided her at just the right time in my life! What an answer to prayer.

Our move this past weekend went well. I never would have guessed there was so much to the moving process! Preparing and packing definitely involved some long nights with less sleep. But it all came together and my roommate and I could both so much see the Lord's hand at work in the whole process. We want this new season of our lives to glorify Him.

Saturday was the actual day of our move. More than 30 people on staff at the ministry showed up to help us. I noticed something I'd maybe never noticed before. Usually I help with other people's moves, and enjoy it so much, but this time I found myself standing and watching everyone as they got boxes together, made an assembly line out the balcony, and joked and laughed good-naturedly. It was quite fun ... and incredible to watch. Looking back, I felt like I was watching a well-orchestrated symphony. One that had been rehearsed in a general sense, but not the specific piece that was being played. Yet the notes seemed to just flow and come naturally and in their place. More than anything, I think, I so much felt how much people cared for me.

It was a nice time, even if my roommate and I were both pretty tired from staying up late the night before with extended prayer at the ministry and then last-minute packing. It was a pretty day out, and the fellowship was good. The Lord has really been watching out for me, because I very quickly caught up on my fatigue. He even woke me up this morning with an alertness uncharacteristic of me. :o) (especially considering how late I stayed up last night!)

I like the new apartment SO much! It's really cute. :o) It feels homey and peaceful, and there is a gorgeous view outside the back balcony! I'm so excited. :o)

This week has been good ... even if I've been a bit tired. ;o) Not too bad! This morning I have been so much having the Lord's peace ... and a sense of abiding with Him moment by moment. When I was driving in to work, I heard a worship song (Michael W. Smith) that starts out with really pretty instrumentals. I felt my heart fill with love for Jesus, yet at the same time a sadness that lately (past few weeks maybe?) I haven't been spending the time with Him that I know He would love us to spend together. Amazing, isn't it? That the All-Knowing, perfect and complete God of the universe would actually desire to spend time with us. Pinch me, I must be dreaming?

I'm having a good day today! I was kind of afraid it would be hard to get back into the "real world" after the nice holiday weekend, but it's been going so well! It's such a privilege getting to serve here.

I had an incredible Thanksgiving weekend. As I was telling my roommate today, "It felt surreal". (I think I'm using that word in the right context? If not, oh well, I just thought it'd be fun to use a big word on here. :o)) The weekend was filled with a yummy meal on Thanksgiving day, several nice times of fellowship with friends in my S.S. class, a walk each day at the park right down the road (beautiful days!) and ... SLEEP. :o)

I also made a "spur of the moment" turkey soup tonight, using leftovers that were sent home wtih me from Thanksgiving dinner! After tonight, I've decided I can somewhat do "ad lib" cooking after all ... several things I've tried in the past to be "creative" with, making up as I go, ended up not being that good. But the soup tonight turned out pretty well! :o) My roommate tried it and seemed to think so, too. We are moving this Saturday. Hard to believe! We're excited. I'm looking forward to this weekend ... even if it DOES end up being a lot of work. ;o) Hard to believe that a week from now, we will be all moved in!

I've been having such a good week! I think it all started with a nice weekend. :c) Sunday after church I went to eat at The Corner Bakery with a group from my S.S. class. Then I headed over to the mall to purchase a cell phone -- It will be my phone when I move. A blue and gray flip phone, it's a cutie ... but I keep telling it it will be grounded for life if it doesn't stop misbehaving. ;o) For starters, even when I change certain audio settings, they don't respond accordingly.

Tomorrow I eat Thanksgiving dinner with my S.S. class. And some of us (not me) will be watching football, while others will be watching movies (maybe me? or I may just hang out and talk with people!). I'm looking forward to that! I can't wait. :o) I will be making a salad to bring -- I hope it turns out well. It will have lettuce, dried cranberries, chicken, pecans, and mandarin oranges. The fun part is all the ingredients were either gotten free or almost free with a coupon, or given to me or offered for me to use.

Today was such a good day! :o) A friend came over to work on some bikes and grab her stuff, and we enjoyed chatting. Then I went walking and rollerblading at the park nearby.

I got together with Maggie, a new lady on staff, tonight. We had so much fun! :o)

Hi again! It's me. We had our staff ladies meeting tonight ... a much-needed reminder of how we can give thanks in ANY circumstance and also how we can thank God, by faith, for things we do not yet see. Amen.

This was a very timely reminder for me, and I'd imagine for many of us. For me, parts of the two weeks before this one were times of being "in the valley". And this week in some ways feels like the process of getting "back in the swing of things" after having been in the valley. Yet, overall, it's been a rather good week, I think, for which I am so glad! : ) The weekend was good and set a nice tone for the week, I think. There are still things I need to lay before the Lord and trust Him for by faith, but I am so thankful for the time I had after the meeting tonight of catching up/praying with a friend and then driving around on my own, talking with and singing to Him.

On a different note, things have looked bleak this week for us writers, as our "resident walker" is on vacation (must be?) and hasn't paid us our daily visits. We miss seeing him out the window! A coworker and I were joking that we should make a big sign to put in the window for when he passes by -- something like, "We missed you" or "Welcome back". :o)

Oh, the little joys of life!

The lunch went well. I had some opportunities to share the ministry. I enjoy getting to do that!

I enjoyed Sunday school as usual. We all are eating at our teacher's home for Thanksgiving! I can't wait. :o)

My room's been pretty clean lately -- that's a good feeling. :o) I think I've been able to get rid of quite a bit as far as papers I didn't need anymore, etc. And I have a little pile of things that can go "up for grabs".

When you serve at a ministry, those three words are special indeed. :o) I am so very thankful for all the nice furniture the Lord has provided for the new apartment. Hard to believe we're moving in less than a month. Wow.

Hello, dear blog. Do you remember me? :o) I know I haven't written since Tuesday. The rest of the week was kind of hard. Yesterday was especially rough ... quite a lot of crying. It's been quite a while since I've been emotional like this.

Today was a good day, though. I was given "a hot dog, a piece of cake and $10" to help out with a birthday party for fraternal 5-year-old twins! Can't beat that. :o) I had the trail mix "station", and it was the kids' favorite one! Probably because it involved food! We didn't stay for the "piece of cake", but it sure was a pleasant time!

I also spent a couple of hours at the home of a friend on staff, and met up with another friend for supper. We had buy-one-get-one-free coupons! Can't beat that. :o) Tomorrow after church is a lunch for all of us who are in full-time ministry.

God is so good to me! Though Friday was such a rough day, I felt that I emerged from the week with His perspective. Saturday morning when I was spending time with Him, I was filled with His supernatural love. Thank You, Lord. What a wonderful peace that brings!

And I've been having a good week so far. I enjoy looking out the window at the beautiful sky. :o) Thank You, Jesus!

Speaking of looking out the window, I think it would be fitting here to publish some updates on our "resident walker"!

Enjoy. :o) (for background, see last Thursday's entry)

Monday, November 8

Resident Walker Makes Second of Three Daily Appearances

At 11:40 a.m., our resident walker made his second daily debut in the GFA parking lot and even waved to one of our staff members who was pulling out. He was sporting his trademark, a faded jean jacket.

You have been listening to GFA News and Reports, stateside. Stay tuned to this channel for further developments and updates in the life of our "resident walker".
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We interrupt to report some unprecedented news about our resident walker.

At about 4 p.m. (CST), in a mode uncharacteristic of the avid walker, he was spotted driving a white Ford "enclosed" truck (maybe an early to mid 90s model?). It is very important to note that he waved at a GFA staff member as he pulled out from his workplace, before waiting for oncoming traffic and then making a left turn onto South Maple Lane (name changed).

We'll keep you posted on further developments. And as always, thank you for tuning in to GFA News and Reports stateside!

P.S. If you'd like to receive the REAL GFA News and Reports, with stories of the exciting things the Lord is doing on the field, click here. :o)

A rough day. I hope I don't have to repeat it for a while. I cried quite a bit. As I remarked to a coworker with a little chuckle, "I'm not good for much of anything today."

But, I emerged from the day with fun chats and laughter with roommates over a taco supper and prayer, a shoulder rub from a coworker, and some loving shoulders to cry on. Thank You, Lord. Thank You SO very much for the family here that loves me dearly. Thank you for each and every precious one. And thank You for my wonderful family back home and a few hours away.

Aren't you glad that for the Christian, we can't lose? That God loves us more than we could even imagine, and He is always bringing about a greater good in our lives, even through trials? That He hurts with us when we hurt? And, oh, I am so very encouraged to see how He has been working in me His perspective through it all. (It didn't start out that way, and wasn't that way for a while--and I still struggle somewhat--but He has been so faithful to keep working on me. How wonderful it is!) The other day someone remarked that I was "so brave" and they said I radiated the love and joy of Jesus. I needed to hear those words; they were life to my soul. Truly, God has been SO good to me. I love Him so very much!

My lunch with Sherri today was so nice. She is such a dear sister. We had a nice time chatting about the Scriptures, and it was fun sharing with her how the Lord has been providing furniture for me for my new apartment. We really connected and had such a good visit together. She was saying how the Lord always brings us through hard times. She said some really encouraging things. And ... today was much better. Praise the Lord! I am so thankful for that, so relieved.

This afternoon was busy, but good I think! :o) (I LOVE being busy at work--it helps me keep focused!) It was pretty hilarious -- at one point, while I was cleaning my bathroom (each of us on staff take turns helping to clean the restrooms here!), I was alternating between wiping the counter/door and peeking out into the hallway to see whether someone I needed to meet with was free yet. :o)

Helen was here this morning in the desk next to mine, working on some writing projects. We had some great laughs together, talking about our "resident walker". No joke, he literally walks through our office parking lot three times a day. It's too funny. :o) He's a very dedicated walker and an inspiration to me to take some time for a quick walk during the workday.

Anyhow, we both were laughing because Helen was talking on the phone to one of our coworkers and saying, "He's wearing a denim jacket today! And it looks like he's growing a beard." And I teased that I would have thought that was "beneath his dignity." (He always has his "scrubs" on; he works over at one of the medical offices down the street from us.) Anyhow, he used to walk around, looking "neither to the right or to the left," but we've noticed lately that he's actually quite friendly. I joked that he'd better not be snobbish to us if he's gonna walk through our parking lot. :o)

I am so very happy about the election results! When I heard about Bush's victory, I stood up in my cubicle and jumped for joy. :o) God is good ... and so very merciful to us, even though we so much don't deserve it.

Tonight at the midweek service at Calvary Chapel, I watched as a young woman came in a little late and sat by her brother. They looked so cute and homey as her brother leaned toward her and told her something. I got a little sad as I thought of how my brother is no longer here on this earth for me to do that with. Sitting in that pew, I imagined us sitting together like that as we grew older.

The Lord in His infinite wisdom and compassion has, for whatever reason, allowed--once again--a hard and somewhat painful situation in my life that I thought had finally ended. Yesterday I found myself thanking the Lord for this means to be made more like Him. I even recalled how I'd prayed just the day before for Him to make me more like Himself, whatever it takes. He sure does answer those prayers! I was rejoicing in that yesterday.

Today I wasn't so brave. But I try to continually remind myself that God is good, in any circumstance. And He is in control. Absolutely nothing takes Him by surprise. And He hurts when His children hurt--even if it's because of a trial He is allowing in their life for a greater good. He can be trusted! How comforting is that thought. Thank You, Lord. Thank You SO much.

Tomorrow I'm eating lunch with my friend Sherri from work. :o) I'm looking forward to it. She is such a sweetheart, and has such a servant's heart. She serves part-time with us, despite health-related problems, and would love to be here full-time if she could. I appreciate her!

Today was an overcast day. Great day for quick walking breaks. I took one this morning. For some reason I felt kind of sad and unsettled when I arrived home tonight. I think maybe part of it was not seeing the sun today, and then it getting dark so early.

I'm scheduled to share a little tomorrow night during prayer meeting -- to share some from the field. It's not easy for me to prepare and get in front of people, but yet I'm so thankful for the opportunity. My prayer is that the Lord give me His words, words that would touch and encourage hearts.

Truly, He is so faithful. So good to us, so loving and kind.

I had such a nice time today with the family who are my friends. I ate supper with them and we all chatted and prayed together before I left. They are already ministry supporters, but said after watching the Jaishri video tonight that they are going to pray about supporting another native missionary. Hallelujah! Praise God.

Like last week when I was at my S.S. teachers' home hanging out with them and others in our class, it was refreshing today getting to be "at home" with a family. I'm so thankful for the many blessings and special people that the Lord has brought into my life! He has been so good to me.

I had such a nice day today. It felt like I got so much done, and I had some really good time with the Lord. I enjoyed meditating on Philippians 1, the chapter (and book!) I'm memorizing.

Tonight was fun! I went over to Cici's pizza in the next town over, to meet up with people from my Bible study. We were seeing off Jonathon, as a surprise party. Except he spotted Edward in the window as he was walking up. :oP I very much enjoyed catching up with friends there. In fact, tomorrow afternoon after church I'll be going over to a family's house. I'll get to continue fellowshipping with them and show them The Call to Harvest and pictures from my India trip. :o) I look forward to it!

Then I also went to a game night at a staff family's home. That was neat--I played badmitton (sp?) outside with some gals, and then played some foosball with some buddies ... The phrase "It's been a while..." (since I'd played foosball without a teammate's help) became a catch phrase that my buddy Sean teased me about. :o)

Goodbye for now. I look forward to Sunday school and church in the morning. Nice to get an extra hour of sleep. ;-)

This was a such a good day. Like yesterday, the workday went by fast because I was working on a number of different things. Oh, and the projects are mostly finished, plus another one that came up. :o) A couple of stories were finished, and several were gathered for an email update, plus a "thank-you" paragraph was added. All that's left is "wrapping things up" on another story, and I hope to have that done before the end of tomorrow. Yay!

This weekend will be busy! I may be meeting up with my neighbor for lunch, and then Saturday night I have two things going on--I'll probably try to go to both. :o) One of them is a surprise going away party for someone at my Bible study. Another is a game night at a staff family's home. Then of course the next day is Sunday school and church ... AND, an extra hour of sleep. OR time with the Lord. :o) OR both. :c)

Today my friend Jasmine from last week came by the office for her tour. We also ate chili together downstairs at our Believers Cafe'. Jasmine really enjoyed the tour and was impacted and amazed at the vast number of unreached people and how the Lord is reaching Asia.

Over lunch today, she said how she feels like she's known me for a long time. She is such a sweetheart and loves the Lord and has such a heart for missions. I am so thankful for her and that the Lord has brought her into my life.

I went to the midweek service at Calvary Chapel tonight. I'd never been to that one, just the Sunday morning services. It was so good! The pastor went over Psalm 39-42 and made some good points -- about how our lives are fleeting and we are being prepared for heavenly bodies, etc. I also enjoyed the worship time.

Tomorrow I am meeting with several coworkers for our monthly lunch together. I look forward to that! I think tomorrow night my friend Lindi will call and we'll pray together. Then, Friday I might go to my Bible study, and Saturday night is a surprise gettogether to see off a friend from there. :o) I would really like to try to make it. Oh, and my projects from yesterday are going well! By the end of the workday tomorrow, Lord willing, I hope to have them finished.

Sunday afternoon was such a nice time ... A group of us from my S.S. class were over at the home of our teacher and his wife, hanging out and eating chili. And some people were out in the garage for a while, working on a game that they're having for the kids during the harvest festival. :o) I was in the kitchen helping Sammie and chatting with her, but did run out later, joking that I was "supervising". :o)

During part of the afternoon, I just kicked back and rested on one of their family room chairs while some others watched the football game, lamenting the impending loss of the Dallas Cowboys. We talked about us all maybe going over there for Thanksgiving, too. I felt so much at home ... It was a wonderful time. :o)

I got my SEND! articles back today and was given some changes to make and further research to do for sidebars and photos. That was fun! :o) Today I made the needed changes. During these next couple days, I need to try to gather all the information for my additions, as well as some source documentation for one of the stories.

Also, tomorrow I need to write a couple of web stories about our Bridge of Hope program. I was looking at the field reports, and they are touching! My hope is that the Lord would give me the words to convey the heart of these reports--that hearts would be moved as people read them. I know I am utterly inadequate--my words won't do. It must be the words He gives me--those I must write down. I am nothing without Him, and in my flesh dwells no good thing. What a privilege it is to be His ambassador on behalf of a lost world.

It was so pretty outside today! I went driving out in the country and walking--very late afternoon--at the nature preserve. Beautiful weather, especially as it neared sunset! It got cooler and was quite refreshing.

My lunch with Jasmine Friday was good! I showed her my India pictures and told her some of the stories behind them. She wants to come out to tour our office, and we've set a day for next week! : ) I hope it all works out ... We're going to eat a quick lunch first in the kitchen; I guess we will need to gulp down our food pretty fast so we can do the tour and still not have her traveling back to her office too late from lunch. ;o) She was talking about having me over sometime where she lives, on a lake. That would be nice. :o) She has such a love for the Lord and for missions. It so much looks like the Lord orchestrated us meeting and getting to be friends.

Auughh! I just composed a long post with some neat things that impacted me lately, and, alas, there were problems with the server and the post is nowhere to be found. I hate it when that happens. Thankfully, it doesn't happen very often.

Okay, so it's been a few days since I've posted. Guess I've been busy. Saturday was a nice day. And I enjoyed my S.S. class at Stonebriar again this week. I did get to eat lunch with my new friend, Lilly. We had a nice time together. I sure do look forward to getting to know her more in the days to come. Yesterday was a good day, too. I went to the dentist for a teeth cleaning and grabbed something to eat. On my way back to the office, I made a lunch appointment for Friday, with a really nice lady I met in the community, while apartment-hunting. She loves the Lord and has such a heart for missions. I gave her some ministry materials and, Lord willing, will be showing her pictures from my India trip on Friday. My prayer is that we will really connect and get to know each other and that she will be impacted for His kingdom being furthered in Asia.

Tonight we had the privilege of hearing some exciting reports from two of our leaders on the field. It's incredible what God is doing on behalf of those who have never heard His name. And the hunger He is putting in people's hearts to know Him. Praise the Lord! To Him be the glory.

Hearing from our field leaders tonight, I was given such a vivid reminder that the things we do here truly matter over there--that we are a significant part of amazing things that are happening on the other side of the world. The things we do here, sitting in an office building, make it possible for our brothers and sisters in Christ to reach their people in the 10/40 Window. Incredible. This is an unspeakable privilege. After being in India--and again, after hearing these reports tonight--I find myself so much motivated to do more and be more dedicated. Praise the Lord. May this fire burn bright within me and never die.

No ransom note today.

And ... no sight of Web Dog. Hmmm, the plot thickens ...

I just thought I'd let that be known tonight ... There was something really neat I wanted to share, but I'm tired now. I'll share more later ... I promise? :o)

Oh, I will say this, the Lord went before me today as I continued to work on the story I mentioned yesterday. (The day went by so fast! It does that when you're absorbed in a project.) Now I have what I think is my full "final rough draft". Only bad news? It's 758 words, needs to be cut down to 400. But God can do that. I'm also probably going to be working quite a bit on another 400-word article this weekend ... Thankfully, I have a rough draft on that one as well (about 400 words!), but I still need to do some research, tweaking, and maybe weaving in of some more relevant things. I've been enjoying this sooooo much!

Well, good night. :o)

I got off the phone not long ago with Lindi, my friend from church who moved to Utah. What a sweet time of fellowship we had sharing and praying together. We've been getting to do that about once a week.

We had such beautiful weather today. After work I went walking at the trail. No treadmill reading for me tonight, though. :o) But I was working for a while on one of my stories earlier, and I think the Lord gave me a breakthrough on an angle that would more effectively bring the missionary to life. I was excited!

Alas, our beloved Web Dog has been kidnapped yet again. The saga continues! And ... I do believe this calls for drastic measures. I'm not sure what, but, uh, something drastic. ;o)

I did get in touch with one of my suspects. However, he says he knows nothing.

Hmmm, we shall see if we get a ransom note tomorrow ...

25 more minutes on the treadmill, 170 more calories burned, 6 more pages of background material read for a second SEND! story I was given the opportunity to write. :OD

Hmmm ... I think this business of treadmill reading is becoming a habit. At least it's a productive habit. :o)

Work is busy, but going so well. My prayer is that the Lord give me His words as I write these stories. I know it is HIS words that will touch hearts. In my flesh is no good thing ... The Father must fill me with HIS thoughts, HIS perspective, HIS compassion for the lost. Only then will it truly flow through to the hearts of readers. It must all come from Him.

On another note, exciting things happened in the web room today, as our beloved Web Dog had been kidnapped and held. At least he was being productive. :o) I wrote this account to a friend this afternoon, names changed to protect the "innocent", and words very slightly altered for clarity:

Yes, yes ... it seems the web dog is getting around these days. Thomas kidnapped him and brought him to Sean's office Friday night, where he sat at his computer all weekend, working hard to help plant churches in Asia. (see attached pic) Today, tired from his labors for the kingdom, the web dog gazed out Sean's window at rabbits, while eating brownies and ice cream. (Yikes! We need to put the poor thing on an all fruits and veggies diet? [I'm sure he enjoyed the yummy morsels, though.]) The web dog made a brief appearance in the web room, before being whisked away for a long nap in Thomas's office. I rescued him (don't tell Thomas; I snuck in and grabbed him!) and now he is in our team leader's office, studying complicated documents.

As you can see, this is an exciting place to work, in more ways than one. :o) It's not everyday that there are dog kidnappings in the workplace ... even if it is just a stuffed animal. We have become quite attached to our little canine friend. (sniff, sniff) :oD

I woke up this morning at 6:30 feeling rested. I spent some time with the Lord and then made it to work a little before prayer meeting started.

Tonight I walked on the treadmill while doing some reading to prepare for a SEND! article I'm getting to work on. It sure made the time pass fast -- Before I knew it, I'd walked almost an hour on the treadmill, burning 350 calories! And I felt that the incredible story of a native missionary had been brought to life right before my eyes. His sacrifice, courage, and compassion for the precious children and their families around him--I was especially touched when I read that the parents of the children were so excited to find out that there exists a God named Jesus who loves them. That blew me away.

I only hope I can also bring the missionary to life for our readers. My desire is that the Lord give me HIS words. I know that is the only way there will be any life to what I write, anything of meaning. What a privilege that He would allow me to be His ambassador on behalf of His work among some of the most unreached in the 10/40 Window. It is only through the Lord's provision and because of Him that I can even write at all. That I can even be here, living and breathing. All glory to Him and Him alone.

A drizzling day today. Overcast with a light misty rain every so often. NOT a good day for our hiking outing (oh well!). We will reschedule--perhaps for a gorgeous, sunny day with fluffy, snow-colored clouds appearing in puffs across the sky.

It was a very nice day in spite of that. I tried out a S.S. class at Stonebriar--and really enjoyed it! I also made a new friend, Lilly. We hope to hang out together after church next week. :o)

Not an afternoon for hiking--but the perfect day for taking a nap. Yes, I took another nap today--this time not for quite as long though. Just 40 minutes. My roommate, Tara, took a nap today, too. This must have just been a nap-taking weekend. And now I'm tired still--but a good tired, a looking-forward-to-more-sleep tired.

So much for exercise today ... Does walking across the church parking lot and down two small flights of stairs count? :o)

I took a 3 1/2 hour nap today. I must have been tired. It sure felt good.

All in all, I think it's been a nice day. I went to my Bible study last night--Tara and I postponed our hiking and Baskin Robbins plans but may get to do that tomorrow. :o) I'm also meeting up with a friend for lunch. It will be fun to catch up with her.

And of course I'm lookin' forward to church.

Today was a good day. I feel that I've been brought through to the other side of something, having a little more of the Lord's perspective because of it. And that's a great feeling. As I drove home from Bible study tonight, I realized my desire is that I not shy away from hard times--that, rather, I allow the Lord to make me more like Himself during those times. There are so many times when I couldn't have said that.

I'm going to a ladies' breakfast tomorrow morning. We'll be learning things like time management and how we make that time to spend with the Lord, etc. I'm looking forward to it.

Today the Lord worked out something--the thing I had been asking prayer for. While there is still a related thing that I need the Lord to change in me, I have faith that He is able to do that. It's encouraging to see how He continues to work in me to shape my perspective and mold me to be a little more like Himself. And I have such a peace in my heart now. Thank You, Lord.

I feel excited about tomorrow and ready for whatever it may hold--by God's grace, of course. Tomorrow right after work my roommate Tara and I have made tenative plans to hike at some fun nature trails and then go for blueberry cheesecake yogurt at Baskin Robbins. Saturday is a ladies' breakfast -- and Sunday after church and Monday evening will be catching up with friends. I'm looking forward to all these times! I think fellowship is so important. :o)

I was eating at Chick-fila (yummy and fun! :o)) with a coupon after work today when I had "one of those moments"--those windows in time when you find yourself transported far beyond this mundane world with its treasures and sorrows. When you are filled with a sacred joy and reminded of all that truly matters. This world and its desires will pass away. But oh, how easy it is to forget that. Especially when we live in the "here and now". When the "here and now" is all around us, clamoring for our attention.

There I was sitting at a little table near the window, thoroughly enjoying my nuggets and waffle fries (and don't forget the barbeque sauce!)--and enjoying the chance to sit down and just relax at the end of the work day--when I got a precious glimpse of the Savior.

Christian music had been playing in the background for the last few minutes (had been loud and clear when I first entered the store) when suddenly words from "I Can Only Imagine" rang loud and clear through the ceiling speakers. And in that instant I was reminded in a vivid way that Jesus is all that truly matters. He--and He alone--is everything I could ever need or desire ...

For a moment in time, I found myself transported beyond the hustle and bustle of the world around me--cars speeding by outside--into a world with just my Savior and I, singing our own melody together.

We all need moments like this. They bring everything that much more into perspective.

As we labor here at the ministry to reach the unreached, the battle is not getting any easier. And yet we can have peace and joy in the midst of it. His peace and His joy, as we spend time in His presence. It is worth it, too -- People in Asia are coming "out of darkness into His marvelous light" and it is our privilege to be part of this! (1 Peter 2:9)

I'm back. :o) And doing MUCH better. Praise the Lord! I'm a little tired, but all things considered, doing well. There is still an unspoken that could very much use prayer -- that the Lord would grant me His peace (much better today, I think!) and work things out for His glory.

It has been nice to have my parents here. We have had such good times of fellowship -- Yesterday we went to Stonebriar church and then to eat at Schlotsky's Deli afterwards. That afternoon we went over to a staff family's home for a special time together. Then tonight we had a nice time of chatting with my roommate, Tara--and sharing prayer requests over mint chocolate chip ice cream. :o)

Tomorrow I'll be back at the office. It'll be a busy day, with work and then prayer meeting and then helping with clean-up afterwards. And my parents will be making the trip back home. Pray for the Lord's protection to be on them as they travel.

I am struggling. And slightly sad about something. And feeling stretched. And tired. By faith I thank the Lord for this, for through these things He is molding me more into the character of His dear Son. If I am to serve Jesus, should I not be willing to pay the price--to embrace the Cross? At the same time, I could use prayer ... to see things as Jesus sees them ... AND, for everything to work out for HIS glory and the furtherance of HIS kingdom.

I did get to see my parents tonight. That was really nice! :o) They're in town--well, in the next town over. Then I went to extended prayer at the ministry. I was so tired but at the same time the fellowship was kind of nice even so. Good night now.

I did a triatholon after work today. It was quite fun! Well, the most fun was the swimming part by far. First I walked a mile at a nearby nature trail. The weather was nice and cool. So pleasant!

Then I did 25 minutes on the treadmill at my apartment's fitness room. Then I swam for 30 minutes. A nice time!

I also spent an hour with the Lord. It was good! I would like to consistently spend an average of an hour with the Lord each day. This week, so far so good ... I would like to get to where spending time with Him is just like breathing -- something I don't even need to think about, but just naturally do.

I had some nice time with the Lord before lunch today. As I was singing and thinking of how I've experience some times of wonderful worship with the body of Christ, I was excited to think of how that's what Heaven will be like--except infinitely better. What an incredible thought.

This afternoon I was looking at some photos from the field and thought of the stories behind some of the various ones. I looked into the faces of desperation--men and women whose eyes told the despair they felt. A despair none but the living God can take away! On the other side, imagine with me the joy someone experiences when they hear for the first time of a loving God and Jesus who saves--after having spent their lives in bondage to angry, unresponsive deities. This, too, was reflected in many of the photos. Pictures of men and women earnestly worshipping Almighty God, their faces uplifted toward Him. It brought back memories of my experience in India--how the way they worshipped, you would think it was only them (each individual person, for instance) and Jesus in the small, concrete one-room church. I had never seen worship quite like that! Amazing.

It is my heart's desire that ALL come to know and worship the true and living God. That ALL experience the joy of a relationship with Him. So often I think of my grandmother who still needs Jesus. And tonight I got to witness to the cashier at a nearby drugstore. I had to stop by after prayer meeting to pick up a cassette tape for when I record an interview with a staff member. He remarked that every time I come in there, I'm always joyful. I said, "Praise the Lord" and told him it wasn't me, but the Lord--that I am a Christian and have a relationship with Jesus, and I would like everyone to know Him. I asked him if he knows Jesus. He said he does. (I find many people around here will say that to you when asked, but it's hard to say for sure whether they truly do.) I asked if he had trusted in Jesus to save him. He said he had a long time ago. (But it didn't sound like he considers it a part of his everyday life now? Hard to say positively...) I told him that Jesus is always there for us to come to him. Please stand in the gap in prayer for this young man. I hope I wasn't too bold in my witnessing. My desire (as well as for each time I witness to anyone) is that the Lord would filter out anything that was not of Him--and that this individual would just see Jesus and would think about the short conversation we had, in view of eternity.

Yesterday was a hard day. Saturday night as I was walking, it appeared that the Lord gave me a piece of His perspective on the unspoken I had sought His wisdom on the night before. And I knew it wouldn't be the easiest to live with that perspective because of a good thing (in some ways) that I would need to give up.

But the day was primarily hard because it felt like I was reaching out for the Lord, so desperately longing to experience His love on a heart level, but not getting there. I know He loves me--but knowing objectively and feeling it in your heart are two different things.

Today was nice--so much better than yesterday. I had lunch with a coworker, and we had a good time of fellowship and sharing about the things the Lord has called us to in the ministry. Then tonight I spent nearly an hour with the Lord. I am so thankful for that. At the same time, it seemed to take so much energy out of me. I think perhaps partly because of the battle we're in. And partly perhaps because I was tired. With that note, I think I'll go to bed now. :o) I'm so thankful for the good day the Lord gave me today!

Ever feel like you need heart surgery? Nope, I'm not talking about surgery for your physical heart--though surely many have needed that. Instead, I'm talking about your spiritual heart.

Tonight walking around my complex, I sensed the Lord revealing something in my heart--a perspective I had for a little bit--that in many ways I totally hadn't realized until that moment. It was a good thing--even if hard in some ways. How fragile we are in our fallen humanity--how prone to wander. I was a little sad as I reflected on my folly--my warped perspective. But oh, what a precious dialogue it was with the Lord.

I have emerged with a strong desire to be passionately in love with Him--to love Him so much that I am engulfed in His presense and everything else, good or bad, just fades away. Boy am I glad the Father is so patient with me. It seems like I would've given up on myself long ago. ;o) It's sure been encouraging to experience His working in my life. Philippians 2:13: "For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure."

Well I'm tired. Even though we all left a little early from Six Flags, it felt like a full day. I think we were ALL tired by the time we pulled off to go to Steak 'n Shake (our tradition!). ;o) Maybe the rather muggy weather had something to do with it. And you KNOW it's muggy if this Mississippi gal says it is. :o)

Tomorrow a big group of us crazy season pass holders will be taking another trip to Six Flags. :o) I can't wait! It will be a nice end to the week. Great fun and fellowship!

I need a sensitive and discerning heart to hear the Lord's voice about something. In my spirit I want to know (and I have begun asking to know), but in my flesh I don't because I'm afraid it will be something I don't want to hear. ;o) Indeed I am reminded of the statement Jesus made in the Garden of Gethsamene--"The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak." Thankfully, I have been at peace. Now I just need to hear His voice clearly and have His discipline to follow even if it's hard.

I am so thankful for the Lord -- Truly He is so good to me. (And it is so worth it to follow Him.) Oh that I would sense that on a heart level not only in the good times (like now), but also in the bad. I know it on an objective, intellectual level in those times, of course, but it can be pretty hard for it to travel down to my heart during those seasons. ; )

Two moving parties in one week.

Remember how we moved someone in on Monday? Well tonight, three days later, we all got together to help someone move out.

My team leader and his family. They love us (and we love them!!!) but have been sensing the Lord calling them to something else for this season in their lives.

Hard to believe still. I walked in his office today after he left with all the guys for one last meal together at their favorite spot. And it was pretty much empty. I felt like it began to hit me then. I cried just a little.

Yet I am content and have a settled peace about this. No matter what, I know the Lord will take care of us--and them! The desire of my heart is that the progress of the website as a tool for reaching the lost of Asia be in no way lessened throughout this--that the Lord's hand be upon it and we each be able to take up the slack.

And it also sounds like the Lord will be bringing someone else to join us soon. I don't know who ... but someone! Though for sure he will be missed--he was a dear brother, a competent leader and a humble, dedicated servant. I am so thankful for the chance to have gotten to know this family.

We got to help move a new staff couple and their 9-year-old son in today. That was fun! They're so nice! :o) I have been looking forward to their coming ever since they were here for their interview week.

Other than that, not much going on. Tomorrow I am meeting to catch up with friends for lunch (either at Chick-fila with our free food coupons or something like Wendy's 99-cent menu :o))--and Wednesday a really big group of us are going on what we affectionately refer to as the "Chinese Lunch Club". :o) It's been a while since we've done that, and I look forward to the fellowship (and yummy food!). Then Thursday I'm going to lunch with three friends for our monthly lunch together. It would usually be next week, but we moved it up--It's been two months since we were all together, and we miss it! ;o)

I'm looking forward to the fun and fellowship!

Tonight some buddies and I engaged in an all-out fight (okay, so not THAT bad) with crumpled pieces of straw. :o) Quite fun, I might add. The occasion? Suzi's 21st B-day, celebrated by a group outing to Braum's for ice cream.

Well that's about all I have to say tonight ... except, please pray about an unspoken, for Jesus to comfort me and give me peace and His perspective. Thank you! Love ya'll.

Whew! You sure get a good workout on that bike in our apartment complex fitness room. I don't really have much to write about tonight, but I just got to thinking lately, can you believe I've already been blogging for almost a year? Wow! It sure has passed fast.

Tonight I was feeling a little weary and scattered. But then I spent some time with the Lord and in prayer. Oh, how that ministered to my spirit. Thank You, Dear Jesus. There's nothing like Your peace. And ... isn't it incredible that though we are wretched sinners, Jesus died for us? He is All-Sufficient in the Trinity and lacking nothing; yet He loved us so much (and still does!) He would rather die for us than live without us. Incredible. What wondrous love is this! O, that everyone would know that divine love!

P.S. Tomorrow my friend (and roommate!) Tara and I are meeting up after work to eat at McAlisters Deli and go see Two Brothers at the dollar theater. I'm looking forward to the fun and fellowship. :o)

Wow. I retreated into the prayer room at 10:15 and spent time with Jesus until after 11:00, when my roommate got home and came in so we could pray together. I had gone in at 10:15 thinking, 'oh, I really should spend some time with the Lord today' but thinking it would end up being just a few minutes on this particular occasion. Little did I know ... Trust me, I'm NOT complaining. :o) It was such a refreshing time. Truly, there's nothing like sitting in His wonderful presence. I love Him so much! He is so good to me. I am sensing that perhaps He is putting ways on my heart that He would have me serve within the ministry. It's an exciting thing! At the same time, if His plans for me are to continue doing exactly what I am doing right now, I will be very content and happy with that. I consider it such a privilege that I am getting to write stories to encourage people to pray. It is an incredible thing; I am thrilled to get to be a voice for 14,000 native missionaries reaching their people on the other side of the world. I am so thankful the Lord in His undeserved merit upon me has given me this privilege. I want to be available for HOWEVER He would want to use me. I want to be His willing vessel, with nothing in me that would hinder the fulfillment of His eternal purposes through me.

Please pray for me.

I can't begin to express how encouraging today was. A good friend at work shared during staff prayer this morning about an incredible breakthrough in her mom's life last night. Well, last night the Lord put it on my heart to pray John 10:27,28 for her mom. Needless to say, I was on cloud nine. A little while into the workday, I found myself writing this email to my friend:

I can't begin to tell you how encouraged I was to hear your PTL about your mom. There's something I've GOT to tell you ...

I went on to ask if we could meet for lunch sometime. I didn't expect it would be today! A few minutes later, I received a reply asking, Could I go then? Of course I wrote back, YES! Probably 10 or 15 minutes later, I was sitting at a booth at Wendy's, telling her my story. Then she went on to relate other incredible events in her life that the Lord had orchestrated. What a wonderful time of sharing it was.

Also today, a coworker brought me feedback from a friend of the ministry who had been praying with her daughter for the release of the missionaries taken hostage last week. And she was overjoyed that the Lord provided for their release. And I got to thinking ... WOW. I was a part of that. Praise God. What a privilege! I forwarded it to the rest of the web team as encouragement to all of us that our labor is not in vain. Every keystroke, every phone call, every note written--every single bit of it is playing a significant role in advancing His kingdom in Asia.

There's so much more I could tell about today ... good things that happened, but for now it will suffice to say that after a postcard party where we wrote ministry supporters and then fellowshipped together over pizza, I went upstairs to finish "tweaking" a web update for tomorrow and then found myself walking outside in the nice evening breeze, rejoicing in the incredible privilege to be used in such a way.

How could I do anything else in life?

Tonight was so refreshing. I so much was reminded of God's goodness to me. Oh, how I needed that. Thank You, Lord. I love You. We aren't promised the way will be easy ... but we do know He will be with us every step of the journey. Amen! Hallelujah.

This is an excerpt from a prayer I wrote in my journal after I got up this morning:

Oh Lord, I believe You are so merciful that You are deliberately orchestrating my circumstances lately in such a way that I am driven to utter dependence on You and compelled to give up the "non-essentials". What I am going through is painful, but, oh, the end result, how glorious! Thank You, Lord. For loving me so much that You won't give up on me and dismiss me to my vain and selfish pursuits. Help me become more like You EACH DAY, Dear Jesus.

When I went walking yesterday after work, the Lord gave me such a good conversation with a lady I met on the trail. I was amazed at how God totally orchestrated it ... In response to something she asked me, I told her how my roommate and I had just got done praying together. She said, "That's interesting that you mention that, because I was walking around here earlier and seeing the fireflies and thinking, 'this is almost a spiritual experience.'" So that opened the door for me to ask her where she is spiritually, what she believes. We had such a good talk; I was able to bring out several times how Jesus is the only way. She said it wasn't by coincidence that we met--that she usually walks in the mornings ... AND that earlier that day she had been missing her deceased parents. She seemed so encouraged by our time together. Needless to say, I was kind of on cloud nine after our conversation. :o) Please pray for her and her family, that Jesus would become very real to them.

As for me? I'm doing okay. A little tired. One of our brothers on staff shared with us during prayer meeting this morning. He talked about the battle and how many have been struggling. I'm glad to know I'm not the only one. He mentioned a conversation he and his wife had (a few weeks back?). They each asked a serious question -- Am I willing to pay the price in order that billions could have the opportunity to know Christ? He shared how choosing to pay the price is a choice we must make. It was encouraging to me to hear that others are also struggling in the battle. One day it will all be worth it! It's worth it now; we just don't see the end result yet. Only what is eternal will truly matter. Yet it can be so easy to forget that in the "here and now".

Okay, it's another gorgeous day out there. Yay! :o) Thank You, Lord. It would be nice to just happen to have a road trip planned on a day like this. I left work a little early to make a much-needed bank deposit and grab some cheap food at Burger King. Today I didn't have lunch because I was working on a very urgent story for www.gfa.org. (Be sure to check it out so you can be praying!!) But I'm not complaining. Truly it is such a privilege to serve on behalf of these missionaries who are persecuted and in need of our prayers. As God's people all around the world have prayed, miracles have happened time and time again. People in captivity have been released or escaped. It's incredible! Praise the Lord.

I cried a little this afternoon. I know that humanly I don't have the strength or grace to handle what the Lord has allowed to come my way. (But HE does!) But tonight was nice -- Riding with Cindi and Jean, two good friends from work, in a convertible with the top down, on a beautiful night. :o) We were going to the Cheesecake Factory for a special birthday treat (for me). It was fun and we had some good laughs. I teased that the three of us are dangerous together. :o) (Watch out world, here we come!)

I had the Godiva chocolate cheesecake. Quite rich! Needless to say, I have plenty in a "to-go" box; I plan to partake of it throughout the week. :o) Last night at our prayer meeting we all had the opportunity to say encouraging things to each other. I was really ministered to by the things people said to me -- Many mentioned they were encouraged by my happiness, and some told me they appreciated my devotion to the Lord. Truly I am touched by the family here -- so many caring people that appreciate me and are kind to me.

Later this week I get to catch up with my good friend Jen, and early next week I'm having lunch with a really nice volunteer who used to be on staff with us. I really enjoy talking to her. She mentioned she wanted to get to know me better. Well, the feeling is mutual. :o) I'm looking forward to us chatting next week and having some special time together.

Last night and this morning I was missing my college town and the beloved church I attended there. And on another note, I was reminded of the thing the Lord has allowed--somehow in His infinite wisdom--that hasn't been easy. O Lord, help me be the person I need to be in this. Grant me YOUR perspective, I pray. If I am honest, in my finite, "tainted-with-sin" human perspective I would find it so much easier if the situation were nonexistent. (I realize the Lord has so much He can teach me through this, but so many times I don't see the visible fruit. I just need to seek His perspective and then trust by faith that the fruit is there.)

Yet as I drove my friend and roommate Tara to pick up her car and we talked about what a gorgeous day it was, I found myself looking eagerly outside and saying, "God is good. He is in control! I can trust Him." What a comforting thought! Hallelujah! :o) I love You, Lord. Have Your way in me, I pray. Fill me with Your grace and love.

I'm back from housesitting. And now I'm planning to go walking on the trail close to my apartment and enjoy that gorgeous weather. :o)

Yesterday morning the cat woke me up. Well, I had gotten up to put my clothes in the dryer and then thought I'd catch a few more ZZZZZ's. Would've been asleep for longer though, I'd imagine. ;o) I'm so not a morning person but am trying to be. ANYHOW, the cat started meowing to be given attention. I could tell it couldn't wait to spend time with me. Then I was gripped as I thought about how that's how Jesus is with me--He can't WAIT to spend time with me. So I got up and had such a good time with Jesus. (Praise the Lord!) During lunch I had some good time with Him too.

Now, one day later, I find myself struggling for His perspective. To keep believing in faith and having a Christlike attitude about something He has allowed in my life for quite some time now, for reasons I probably won't fully know until Heaven. But oh, He is so good. His thoughts toward His children are good, and He can be trusted. Always. Thank You, Lord. I'm looking forward to the rest of this day. Well, gotta get back to the house and play with those cats. :o)

The other day an evangelist came and shared with us. He had some good witnessing tips. Even as we have the incredible privilege to reach people on the other side of the world, so many of whom have not heard the Gospel even once, we still also should be witnessing to others as the Lord brings opportunities our way. Yesterday one of these came about.

I was at Wal-mart getting my tires rotated and my battery changed. It took longer than it should have because the attendant forgot to change the battery, hence I had more time in the waiting room where I shared about the Lord with a man sitting in there. Though he claimed to be a Christian, it's hard to say whether he was. He seemed to be agreeing with a lot of things in a noncommittal, polite way. At first I hadn't talked to him about spiritual things and felt bad. I sure am glad the Lord is so gracious to give us second chances, especially to goobers like me. :o)

So anyhow, the Lord gave me the opportunity to talk with him as I would to a fellow Christian--talking about my personal perspective and how I want to bring people to Heaven with me. I shared about Jesus and weaved in Heaven and Hell as real places that people will go to.

On another note, yesterday I found out some dear friends of mine from my college church have signed their high school S.S. class up to support a native missionary. I can't begin to tell you how thrilled I was. :o) I wrote back today and related that they will never know this side of Heaven just how many lives the Lord will eternally impact on the other side of the world through them. What a privilege we have! Thank you, Lord. :o) Oh, that Your wonderful Gospel of Your kindness and mercy would penetrate the hearts of each person in the 10/40 Window.

I won't say much tonight. Just wanted to write a little at least. :o) I've been housesitting; it's going well. This Friday night we have a roommate dinner. I'm looking forward to that! Well, good night!

I am back. The women's retreat was great. I had such a great time and had the opportunity to share about the ministry with a number of people. One sounded like the Lord could possibly have her join staff one day. She has a heart for missions. I pray the Lord brings much fruit through this weekend.

Now I'm off to a neighboring town to housesit. :o) I think it will be a nice week. They live in a neat neighborhood that's really peaceful, and they have two cats. Need I say more? :o) I so much want this week and weekend to be a relaxing time, but also a time of seeking the Lord and spending time in His presence.

I'm about to go on a women's retreat with my church. I'm hoping for opportunities to share the ministry. I'm looking forward to the time!

Tomorrow some friends are bringing some furniture to our apartment--just what I was needing. Yet another testimony of the Lord's wonderful provision and the generous hearts of His people. Praise the Lord.

I'll be back on Sunday. Until then!

I'm back. Had a good day today. In the morning I put my two nephews in the double stroller and took them to the park down the street a little ways. They played for over an hour! A young mother was there with her youngest, 10-month-old Jefferson. She was sweet. I wanted to witness to her but wasn't sure how to bring up the Lord. I can pray for her though! And I have.

When we got back, my sister said it was such a relaxing time for her. I was so glad. A little later, the boys and I went with her to Schlotsky's Deli, one of our favorite restaurants. Then when we got back she showed me how to make a fun pen with glitter and beads on it, and we watched a T.V. show.

My drive back this afternoon and evening was so fun and relaxing. I ran by the Hillsboro outlet mall on my way back--wanting to look at the Bible Factory Outlet and also check for some dishes my parents may be buying for me. I was hungry and also stopped to eat supper. On my way, I saw a man standing on the side of the road (near to the interstate) with his dog, holding a sign that read something like this: Please, a little food. Quite honestly, it broke my heart. I think the man in front of me might have been helping him, because it looked like he had stopped and gotten out there to talk to him.

As I ordered my food, I cried a tiny bit and prayed for the man--that he would know Jesus before it's too late. The situation broke my heart ... I think the biggest thing was to think that there are people in the world just like him, who don't know when their next meal will come from ---and they need Jesus! I was wishing I could just scoop each person in the world into my arms and make it so everybody would know Jesus and have a home in Heaven one day.

Today I am at my sister's. My parents are here too. I got to see my new baby niece. Tonight I got to hold her right before her bedtime and rock her in the rocking chair. While she was about to doze off, I saw a smile that could've stretched from ear to ear. Holding her in my arms I had to wonder ... Would she be in some ways like the aunt she shares a birthday with --- a daydreamer who smiles at pleasant possibilities as she drifts off to sleep? :c)

My nephews and I hung out at the playground some this afternoon. Jacob, 3, saw me holding his mom's cell phone and asked if I also had a phone like hers. I told him I didn't. "Maybe if you to the store and ask if you could please have one, they'll give you one," he replied. :o)

I must go. Tomorrow I get to go to church with my dad and brother-in-law. :o) I look forward to that. BTW, I am thinking to go visit Stonebriar Community Church, Chuck Swindoll's church one of these Sundays. I went once with my mom when she was in town and wanted to hear him, and was so impressed with his humility and transparency as he led the congregation.

This week has gone by fast! Tonight was our ladies' meeting. I was asked to present a sister from the field whom we could pray for. I chose Nantika, a young woman who was helping the wife of one of our regional leaders when we met her in India. She would tend to the children (the mother was confined to her bed for a while with a back injury) and she likely did quite a bit of housework, too. She also was to graduate from one of our Bible colleges this past May, after being a team leader over a six-month evangelistic outreach.

Two things about Nantika have stood out to me:
1) Her passion to reach illiterate, uneducated people in her native country with the hope of Jesus. Her face was radiant when she related this. I got to thinking about how I want to be like that--where I am so in love with my Savior that knowing Him more deeply and laboring for His kingdom are all that really matter to me. To where everything else fades away in comparison. Nothing else really matters.

2) Her contentment in serving behind the scenes. She sat quietly as we visited with the staff family and others; she didn't appear to feel she needed to be noticed or in the spotlight. Yet I would be sure she is very much appreciated for her gentle spirit and selfless labor. I want to be more like that--to be content not to be noticed, not to be in the limelight. To be madly in love with Jesus and recognize that my sufficiency is in Him, that in Him is the fulfillment of everything I could ever need or long for. To give Him all the glory for everything. To even delight in others being recognized instead of me. To not mind situations where I'm ignored. Oh Lord, work this in me, I pray.

Yippee! Tonight after working on some stuff at Barnes and Noble, I spontaneously decided to take a drive down Hwy 121. It was a beautiful night with a nice breeze. I had music blaring (okay, maybe that's a slight exaggeration) and the windows down. I did, however, roll the windows back up at stoplights. :o) The Lord helped me today with two things I was kind of overwhelmed about. That sure was a blessing!

This weekend I get to travel a few hours away to see my sister, her husband and children, my parents and--of course--my new niece who shares my birthday. Pray for safe travels ... and for this week to be on track--good times with the Lord, like last week, and to be led by Him. :o) That is truly the best way to live, but it is so easy for our flesh to forget that when it comes to practically living it out.

Today I am 26. I awoke to pretty wildflowers sitting outside my door, with a bright-colored Happy Birthday note on our whiteboard. Thank you, Tera! My roommate also cooked me a birthday supper of a yummy roast, potatoes and carrots. And others came over to help us celebrate--there were seven of us in all! It was a nice time.

But the most memorable present of all was my newborn niece, Elisabeth Marie. Weighing in at 8 pounds, born at 9:45 this morning. I was hoping and praying she would be born on my birthday--and she was! Thank you, Lord! And Happy Birthday, Elisabeth Marie. :o) You don't know me yet, but I will see you next week. I look forward to celebrating our birthdays together in the years to come.

Today I got to fast during lunch again. I have found this to be one of life's sacred joys and something I had not done very often until this week. By the end of my time with the Lord I was pretty hungry (and still am), but oh what peace and energy He has given me! And to spend time with Him and intercede on behalf of the lost world and my brothers and sisters in the faith--this is an unspeakable privilege! Who am I that I should get to partake in this?

This afternoon after work I will be going down to the South side of the building to clean my bathroom (my week through today). Oh what a privilege and joy it is to serve here! Dear friend, I encourage you if you haven't already, to seek His face as to how He would use your life to further His kingdom. If you know Jesus, He has an incredible purpose for your life--both for your ultimate good and for His supreme glory!

Another nice day. :o) For lunch, I met up with three coworkers to eat at Chick-fila with some coupons I had. We had a good time together! Especially interesting was the discussion about finding the balance where we both are content and joyful in the situation God has us, but yet have faith and hope that He is able to change it.

After lunch I went to a coworker's home to pick up a table and chairs they had offered me with the coffee table. The chairs will work great for my dining room table until I can find a full set! And the table will be cute with a tablecloth as an end table in my living room. Tonight I had fun arranging a lamp, picture frames, a magazine and a journal on my coffee table and end table. It's fun seeing how it's all coming together. Now I just need a sofa. :o) Hmmm ... oh, AND a dresser.

Tonight was such a fun, relaxing evening. After I cleaned "my" bathroom for the week at work and helped clean the building (my month), I went to Great Clips to get my hair cut. $6.99 coupon--You can hardly beat that. :o) The lady I had is from India, so I got to tell her how I'd gone there in March. (still hard to believe!) I continue to be reminded of incredible things I experienced and learned there. I thank God for bringing these things to mind! After getting my hair cut I spontaneously decided to catch a movie at the dollar theater--13 Going On 30. It was so cute--and overall pretty clean! Definitely a chick flick, as I was telling someone later. :o) Anyhow, after I grabbed (a really late) supper (with another coupon!) I went driving (it was such a pretty night!) and sang praise songs and prayed. All in all, it was a nice night.

Yet another nice day! Had time with the Lord again at lunch break. Early this evening I went walking down the road at the nature preserve. The weather was so nice! Had to be in the 60's. Highly unusual for Texas this time of the year. :o)

A coworker brought over a coffee table I bought from him and his wife for a really good deal. It's cute! Cherry finish with drawers that pull out. It will go in my new apartment that I'm moving into around December, along with a wood dining room table someone was giving away. :o) And my bed was given to me, too, and I bought my computer desk/chair for a grand total of $13. It's been kind of fun to see how the Lord has provided, especially since I had NO furniture whatsoever when I came down. Unless you count my small purple lamp and two crates my sister painted for me, that I used as a nightstand. :o)

Another good day. Had some nice time with the Lord during lunch break. There's nothing like being in His presence!

Tonight we had pizza and then watched a movie together. The movie was Miracle. We watched it as a staff body, to get applications--such as being united together for one common purpose, with nobody any more important than anyone else. In the movie, it was to win an olympic hockey game. For us, it hit home when our beloved leader talked about the potential for SO many people on the field to turn to Christ. Think of it--in dying to our own selfish ambitions and radically abandoning ourselves to the cause of Christ, ultimately we have nothing to lose--and everything to gain. If athletes here on this earth endure pain and die to desires that they may win a crown that perishes, how much more should we do the same, for an incorruptible crown?

Wow, today was such a good day! I had some sweet time with the Lord during my lunch break. He is so good! I love Him so much. The rest of the day seemed to just naturally flow from that time with Him. I wrote a persecution story for our website, and it seemed the words came easily. Thank You, Lord. You gave me the words!

I stayed at the office until close to 7:00, then came home and ate some turkey spaghetti I'd made. Then I went walking. When I got back, my roommate and I prayed and I started some laundry. I hope tomorrow is just as good as today! :o) Or even better.

I feel in some aspects like I've been going through the valley. And I don't know what to do to get out of it. Maybe I'm not supposed to be out of it. Maybe I'm to endure through more of the valley, that I may become more like my Savior through it. If so, I can say by faith--even if not always emotionally--"Blessed be His name."

I did have some special times today of sensing His presence. When I was in church and they were singing "Better is One Day", He felt so close! After church I did a prayer walk in a neighborhood across the street. That was a neat time. And my friend Lindy and I chatted and prayed together. That was such a sweet time of fellowship! Thank You, Lord.

My friend from back home, Heather, and I talked for two hours tonight, reminiscing about times we had not long after we first met--and wondering what our Bible study buddies are up to now.

You know what? It seems that just as the Lord has miraculously intervened in a situation I've been faced with, a different one has become harder. But (by faith) praise God! I can trust Him. This can be material for sacrifice. I ask to be made more like Him and than am surprised when He actually seeks to answer my prayer, by bringing adversity into my life.

Tomorrow is church. YAY! I like my church here--although I also miss my church back home (college town) and can't wait to see them all again. :o)

The battle continues. (see August 1 entry) But God is good. And He is faithful. Tonight we had extended prayer at the ministry. My sore throat had gone away but returned for part of the evening. And I felt tired and warm on my forehead again. Yet I can pretty much tell I'm not sick, as in anything contagious. Pray for me! I think my biggest thing is I feel so worn out it's hard to focus to pray and read the Word, though I know that is so important! And I so much want to live more purposefully ... and to be rid of "ME". How selfish and silly we (I!) can be. Oh, Jesus, make me more like YOU, I plead.

Tonight I visited one of my roommates at the house she now shares with three other girls ... well, okay, so young women. :o) The youngest, 18, arrives this Saturday. This Saturday is also a reception and pool party for a friend at the ministry who's graduating from high school. So it will be a full day!

Last night a group of us all went to Six Flags. (Did I ever tell you I'm REALLY enjoying my season pass? :o)) That was nice! The preteen sons of a family on staff got to join us; it was fun having them along. They're such sweet boys!

My throat was hurting today and my forehead was a little warm. I think it's allergies. I seem to be feeling a little better now. Life has been flying by in some ways! Tomorrow is a busy day--full day at work as usual, and then my friend Cara and I are catching up over supper at Arby's. Then I'll come home and rest and get some stuff done (hopefully) and then we have our monthly extended prayer night at the ministry! I'm looking forward to it. Lord, give me strength, I pray. :o) Amen.

During prayer meeting tonight, we were challenged to devote ourselves to prayer. I so much want to be a woman of prayer. The story was told of a brother in North India who prays 3 hours a day, 6 on Sundays. Wow. I want to be more like that! Please, Lord, help me. Tonight I prayed for 20 minutes when I got home. You've gotta start somewhere. :o)

I'm back. I am doing better tonight, although a little stressed still. Tonight after work one of my roommates, her sister and I went to a nearby town to pick up some kitchen stuff from a lady at her church and get a free (yummy!) sample at Krispy Kreme. We're actually not roommates anymore as of Saturday--she's the one who got moved into a four-bedroom house. But we were pulling out of work at the same time today, and, unknown to each other until later, were both thinking rather sadly of how we were now going in two different directions. The Lord has incredible plans for all of us roommates in this new season of our lives, though, and we can trust Him as we watch them unfold. It will be exciting to watch. :o)

Tomorrow is a web team lunch. Yay! And then tomorrow night is prayer meeting. Pray I won't be stressed out anymore. :o) Life is busy right now, but that's no reason I have to be stressed. I do realize we all go through those times, though. Generally I'm doing fine--somehow I've been kinda stressed these last few days, etc.

I did get to see my friend Rebecca. Or Becka, as she used to always go by. :o) And her brother James. He's sweet. It's hard to believe he's "all grown up" and 18 now. I think the last time I saw him he was 10 years old. I remember Becka and I taking him to a little fair with us one time. Her two children were with her, too. They're so cute and seem in general quite well-behaved. :o) They bounded up to me and kept wanting to sit by me!

Pray for me. Today I felt bombarded with feelings of condemnation. I was talking to someone else tonight who also faced this. I know that spiritual strongholds are being broken in Asia as we speak. Precious people are turning from spiritual bondage to their idols, to worshipping the living God and Him alone. Praise God for this. At the same time, the Enemy won't just sit by and watch this all happen.

There are times when we at the ministry face more spiritual attack than others, and I think this could be one of those times--especially since by God's grace we recently started our Bridge of Hope program to reach dear children who desperately need Jesus. Through Christ, all things are possible. John 15:13 says that greater is He who is in us. Amen! I love you, Lord. Thank You that You love me so much and can be trusted no matter what. :o)

Tomorrow I will likely get to see my best friend from junior high/high school. Yay! She's driving through on her way back from seeing her sis. We are meeting in a town about 30 miles from here, 22 miles from my church. She should be coming through around 2ish. So the plan is that I will go to the 12:00 service at my church, call her from their with my phone card and then head over that way to meet her at Applebee's. It will be nice to see her again after such a long time! I'll have to bring my camera and take pictures. :o)

I am so much seeing perspectives in my life that need to be changed. I think it all boils down to dying to my pride. At times it seems that every time I turn around, I see my own wretchedness. But that's a good thing, right? I mean, not that I'm wretched, but that the Lord is showing me how I am?

We moved one of my roommates into her house today. Well, I guess it would be more correct to say her stuff? She needed to go out of town this weekend and have some dental work done. My remaining roommate and I prayed together tonight and had a good talk about what we're doing as far as apartments. It looks like I will be moving pretty soon--likely August 25! I'm excited but also realizing this is a big step and in a sense "stepping out of my comfort zone"... though I'm very much sensing the Lord has orchestrated and directed this. I think in many ways the move will drive me to more dependence on Him. There is so much He is able to teach me if I'll just let Him. : )

A friend from work and I had fun running through the rain tonight! My roommate Dorinda was packing, and we all hung out. That was fun. Tonight it really hit me ... We're moving. Wow! Hard to believe.

We three roommates have been here together for almost two years. The Lord has taught us (and stretched us all!) a lot, and we've had some good fellowship. I hope we can remain good friends! At the same time I'm also looking forward to this new chapter in my life.

I think the Lord has put it on my heart to have a schedule of sorts--certain things I want to make time for, such as curling up with a good book, getting lots of cooking experience, prayer times, etc. I'm excited about it! PRAY for me that I would live purposefully ... that even though I will have my own apartment, I would not yield to the temptation to be selfish--to do things when I want to do them. Instead, I want to listen to the Spirit. Even as I say this, I know I am weak in my human flesh. But He is able!

Last night before going to bed (or was it this morning? can't remember?) I read Malachi 3:10, a verse that was quoted in my devotional. I actually didn't get any further than that verse! It's such a good truth, about how the Lord's blessings are available for His children as they yield to Him. That is my desire--that I will spend my time (and money) as He would have me to, trusting Him that He will abundantly minister to me and meet my needs. Praise God!  

Life has been good! We had an exciting story from the field recently. So, things have been busy in the web room, with our team leader and I working on articles and email subscriber feedback. It's incredible to see how the Lord answers prayer.

Tomorrow after work, my roommates and I are having dinner together. I'm looking forward to the food and fellowship. :o) One of my roommates is ordering a pizza online (cheaper that way I think!) and then I'm gonna pick it up. Talk about teamwork. :o) We all are also gonna discuss logistics and details of our upcoming moves--all in different directions. We've already decided we all want to continue our roommate dinners once a month. I'm glad for that!

Stop the press! Today I found a cute apartment for a GREAT price! I am moving into it on August 25. The story of how the Lord orchestrated everything is pretty cool. Long story made short, he totally lined up everything between us roommates, leadership here at the ministry, etc. There are still details that we all need to work out, but things are coming together.

Basically, we're all willing to do whatever the Lord would have--and what would be best for the ministry. I'm so excited! :o) The message tonight at our Sunday night fellowship was about living more and more purposefully, with eternity in mind. It was so good, and something I felt the Lord had already been putting on my heart, especially during this particular season of my life. Walking around our apartment complex later (it's been a beautiful day!) I dedicated my new place to the Lord.  

"Just five more minutes."

I found myself continually saying this as I played a game with my Bible study leader's 8-year-old daughter tonight at the coffee shop. :o) Of course, it turned into five or six more minutes, and on and on ... You get the picture. :o) It was fun! And Shari joined us. I just met her tonight and don't know whether she knows the Lord or not. Pray the Lord works in her heart! She's really nice.

Tomorrow my roommates and I are meeting up with a couple of coworkers to surprise one of them for her birthday. That will be fun! :o) Then I'm meeting up with my friend Lindi, who has taken a job in Utah. I will miss her! We have a special friendship and enjoy sharing about the Lord.

Wow, today has been such a good day! I got to fellowship with friends over lunch AND supper. I ran into another friend at the store, gave her a ride home, and hung out with her for a while. :o)

While I am aware that the "situation" is still there, it seems to have faded into the background for now. That's how it is for me a good amount of the time, though not the whole time. God is faithful and He knows what's best! I can trust Him.

There is a hard situation in my life that the Lord, for whatever reason, has seen fit to let go on in my life for a while now. Usually by His grace I'm able to stay pretty encouraged, but this afternoon I was crying ... I wasn't good for much at the office. ;o) By faith, tomorrow will be better!

I already feel so much better. A big group of us from the ministry went to Six Flags tonight (aren't season passes great? :o)) and I had a nice time! :o) On the way back, we girls were having a good talk about the Lord's timing--how it is perfect. We can trust Him! One thing my friend (and roommate) mentioned especially encouraged me. She said she was reading in A Tale of Three Kings about how some of David's times of deepest sorrow produced such beautiful words that still speak into the lives of so many. Praise God for that! How thankful I am--how comforting it is to know--that nothing I go through is by accident. It is all for a purpose. Amen.

The Lord continues to allow difficult situations to come my way. By faith I thank Him, for I know He thinks good thoughts toward me. His plan is best. I can trust Him. And He is chiseling away my impurities, so I can be a little more like Him each day. That doesn't mean it's easy, though.

Prayer meeting tonight was good! And a group of us were all invited to someone's house to fellowship afterwards. I kind of wanted to go, but was sooooooooo tired this evening. I had some good time with the Lord!

Tonight one of my roommates and I grocery shopped together and then went to her cousin's house to eat chocolate chip ice cream. :o) Now? I am going to bed. I think I hear my pillow calling my name?
 
I'm excited about the different things the Lord will continue to work on in my life as I seek Him. I am encouraged that He is helping me in my everyday life to recognize perspectives that I would like to change. And of course, I realize giving them over to Him is the only way they will change.
 
I find that the Lord has been faithful to bring situations my way lately (at the ministry) that, while not always the easiest, are means to drive me to my knees and cling to Him all the more. Praise God!
 
Maybe I will write more when I'm more awake. :o) Have a great night!  

Yesterday a group of us went to Six Flags with our season passes. I had a wonderful time! Not only did we all have some great talks and laughs, but the Lord arranged for me to meet a youth leader who got me in to a Q&A session with Steven Curtis Chapman, who was there in concert. Though I didn't get to meet the singer, I so much appreciated his humility and transparent heart for the lost. It was so refreshing. He mentioned at the end how we could be praying for him and his family. I want to do this. He talked about an orphanage (I think in a third-world country) where the children all have special needs. He said these kids likely won't make it past another year. He added that he got down on his hands and knees with them and prayed and sang ... It was all he could do. I started crying. I think the Lord has given me a heart for people who are suffering and don't know Jesus ... I look forward to seeing what He will do with the things He has placed on my heart. It could simply be things like what He did last night.
 
When we were in line for Mr. Freeze, I had the opportunity to talk to a 13-year-old girl, Kimbero. I sensed the Lord may be putting it on my heart to share my testimony with her, so I did. And I got to pray with her (for her headache), and she asked me if I'd like to ride with her. Of course I said sure. :o) I was hoping to get to. It was cute; from the moment we got "buckled in" on the ride and were getting ready to "take off", she clasped my hand and didn't let go until we were about to get off. Right before the ride started she said, "I hope I don't throw up." I told her we would pray and that Jesus could help her not to. :o) And He did! Some of us also got to give her a couple of tracts, and I also gave tracts to two teenage girls I got to talk to. That made my day.

The service we render to others is really the rent we pay for our room on this earth. It is obvious that man is himself a traveler; that the purpose of this world is not 'to have and to hold' but 'to give and serve.' There can be no other meaning.
--Sir Wilfred T. Grenfell
 
What a great quote. I thought I'd share it here tonight. Found it yesterday when I was at Barnes and Noble's bookstore--one of my favorite places that holds fond college memories. :o) The quote was in a book I was perusing, in between writing stories for the web.
 
Not much else is going on. Work is going well. Today I ate lunch with a coworker at Atlanta Bread Company. We had some fun laughs together, and good talks. She is a precious sister who has faithfully served part-time at GFA for close to 14 years now.
 

I'm back. My home computer is being looked at, as it shut itself down a few times while I was working on a writing assignment. So I'm using my roommate's for a few minutes. :o)

Not a whole lot is going on. I've just missed writing in here. :o) This has been a good week so far. Yesterday I had some good time with the Lord during my lunch break. And He has given me much-needed peace about a decision I was struggling with. What a blessing! He is so good to us.

Church was good today. Our pastor spoke on the Apostle Paul, and how his life was poured out as an offering to the Lord. I sat on a bench outside church and journaled about it. I am amazed at the Apostle Paul's self-sacrificial, consecrated life. Sometimes I wonder, will I get to that point? The Lord has brought me a long way, yet I know there still are so many areas in which I need to die to myself. I am so glad He who has begun a good work in me will complete it! (Philippians 1:6) He is faithful, even when I am not.

This afternoon I got a bunch done as far as writing. Tonight at our staff worship service I had Kids Korner. I shared a very brief lesson about Joseph, and how he forgave his brothers even when they had been mean to him--and how Jesus died for forgiveness of sin. I had the sweetest brother and sister in there whose parents are visiting friends. The little girl was excited when she saw me again during the fellowship time afterwards. :o)

Tonight we played volleyball. I did quite poorly. But it was so much fun! :o) People seem to enjoy it so much; maybe we'll do it more. Tomorrow I'm meeting up with some coworkers to go eat at McAlisters Deli, a really yummy restaurant that we have back home, and didn't have here--until it very recently came here. I can't wait! :o)

Today was a good day overall. I had fun with Ruthie and Dorinda! But my night was rather unfocused. And I'm tired. And, I'm struggling with a decision I need to make.

I so much want to do what God wants, whatever that may be, but right now I'm not 100% sure what that is.

Praise God that His mercies are new every morning! (Lamentations 3:22,23) And that His Word tells us if we ask Him for the wisdom we lack, He will give it to us. (James 1:5)

Tonight our brother Zac Poonen shared with us again, one last time. It was probably my favorite session. How it impacted me would be hard to express in words, so I won't try at the moment, especially as I am tired. Maybe I'll write more tomorrow.

I so much want to be obedient to everything the Lord would have me do, even when it's not easy. Brother Zac really brought out how, when Jesus walked this earth, He did nothing on His own volition--He only did the will of the Father. If Jesus, being perfect, did this, how much more should we? Please, please pray for me with this. Even as I write these things I know weak I am in my fallen human flesh, yet I so much desire to be like silly putty in His hands. To do His bidding and live for Him alone.

After Brother Zac shared, some of us gals on staff went to a family's house to hang out and have root beer floats. When we got home, my roommate Dorinda read me a bedtime story. :o) It was about a monster waiting at the end of the book. Except that the monster turns out to be the main character; he just doesn't know it yet. It was fun! She bought the book for a young mother on staff when she was having her first child. Now she's going to give the sequel (about two monsters who turn out to be the two main characters) to a younger sibling in the same family. I think that is a great gift for her.

Today has been such a good day. We have Brother Zac Poonen here sharing with us. It's always a treat when he comes; I have some of his tapes from when I was raising support, and I got so much out of them. In one of the tapes, he spoke of how of utmost importance is God's name being hallowed. Earthly circumstances don't matter; it's all about Him. When He is given the reverence due His name--the adoration He so much deserves--everything else falls into place. (Matthew 6:33)

This morning and evening he spoke to our staff. In speaking about the judgement we as Christians will go through, he made a statement that gripped me: "We need to live as people who know that one day we will give an account to God of everything we did and why." Wow. Quite convicting! I don't know how much I had really stopped to think of the full implications of 2 Corinthians 5:9-10.

Over lunch, I had the opportunity to talk with coworkers about the message we heard this morning. I may try to write more about each session later; right now I'm heading to catch some Zzzzzz's. Good night!

Tonight after prayer meeting, a group of us went to Starbucks and hung out. It was fun! I had some good laughs. I also got to ride in a convertible with some friends. I enjoyed waving my arms around in the breeze. :o) Although it was about 91 degrees, it still felt pretty nice outside!

I'm back! And ready to start this new week. :o) We all ended up getting a little sunburned, even though most of us (probably all of us?) wore sunscreen. And it was rather hot and humid outside. But, oh, how nice it was going to sleep to the sound of crickets chirping--and waking up to the birds singing. And being able to walk around at night and actually see the stars.

I enjoyed the ride back today with my friend Jen, and then had so much fun hanging out with my roommates afterwards. One of my roommates was out of town for a bit. It was so much fun chatting and catching up today. Well, I should go and work on something that needs to be completed by tomorrow. :o) It shouldn't take long. Good night!