March 30, 2009

Wow! Time has flown by since my last post on Wednesday. Sometimes I wonder if I yak too much on here. But there are people who say they like to hear all the stories, so I'll keep at it.

Wednesday evening I served at GCN with 3 other volunteers. We had everything quite under control with Mr. Lew. I got to leave 30 minutes early, so I went to Wild Greens Chop Shop for a healthy dinner and some time to read. Then I set off for the rescheduled Bible Study at Erin's. (by the way, I have two friends named Erin. this is Erin Hardy, and my other friend Erin Ellis is the one with the long struggle with migraines. I'll try to keep them sorted out better in my posts.) Our Bible study was really good. We shared a lot and prayed for each other. We won't be meeting for a couple of weeks due to travel opps for Erin and Christi, so it was special to be together.

Thursday I met Mike for lunch at a health food pizza place called Cafe Viva. It was tasty and good for us. (it still didn't take care of the real pizza craving, but that's how it has to be) We'll be grabbing a bite there every so often. It's on Broadway at 97th st on the Upper West Side, so it's halfway between my apartment and Mike's classes at Union. It will be a convenient and welcome meal every once in a while.

I hopped the 1 train to Times Square Station and stopped by TSAC building to rent the room for Sunday. I got to at least say hi to Lewis and Roy, visit with Thom and Carmen and Pepe, and text John Cooper a quick hello. My weekly fix with the peeps at TSAC.

I scooted over to Coffeehouse and had a blast serving with the usual Thursday night gang. I have to confess that I succumbed to temptation for dinner. Usually I am very strong about not eating any contraband when offered food. And believe me it's hard sometimes!!! Well, they had the most deliciously tantalizing liver and onions as an option for dinner. I have to admit that I did eat a small portion. (the last time I had liver, I ended up in the emergency room within a day or two last October) I enjoyed this illegal dinner soooo much. I went home very happy.

As for my health, I've still had daily queasiness and dull pain in my side, but just keep marching along. When I get used to this being the 'norm', I don't remember to be as 'good' as I should. PLEASE continue to PRAY for me in this area.

Friday I served at Clinton and had beans, roasted potatoes and cabbage for lunch. Good girl. Then I walked to Whole Foods to pick up tons of nuts and fruits and veggies that I was out of. I couldn't remember all of the ingredients for a fruit salad that my mom used to make, so I called her from the store. I forgot, until she said my phone was going in and out, that I was underground. I guess I get used to the differences in 'shopping opps' here in the city and get used to the different locations. Anyway, I lugged two very heavy bags of grub home, made the fruit salad and then laid on the sofa for a few hours of rest and reading. Then I took the salad and some french bread over to my friend Erin (Ellis)'s home for dinner and a good game of Scrabble with Danny and Andrew. It was such a nice relaxing evening. The best part was that Erin was feeling much better for the day. I miss seeing her. Please pray for her healing and continued strength.

Saturday I woke up from a wonderful long sleep. This was such a luxury for me because I often wake up 2-3 times each night and read for a short while until I fall back to sleep. I felt sooo refreshed after an uninterrupted night's sleep. I spent a lot of time reading, studying True North, Bible study and Spanish lessons.

Sunday I walked down to Coffeehouse to serve lunch. It was starting to sprinkle, but I wanted to get my exercise in for the day, so I resisted the option to take the bus. We served over 100 people for lunch. That was just about the limit of our food. There was also a local church group who were giving out food on the street in front of Coffeehouse. Lots of hungry people that day!

Alfonso and Myra are Hispanic and are trying to help me practice my Spanish. We spoke almost entirely in Spanish the whole shift. They helped me with words I didn't know, but I surprised myself at the vocabulary hidden in my brain! We discussed my marriage/divorce history, how I came about to be a missionary, the fact that they think I need a husband(!) and other stuff, including naming kitchen equipment, utensils, foods, etc. What a fun time!

I ate baked chicken, plain baked potato and red cabbage for lunch. You would be so proud of me! Even though it is TOTALLY against my nature, I pulled the skin from the chicken. That was a huge moment for me! ha! After Coffeehouse, I stopped by my friend Carol's apartment for a few minutes of chatting and prayer. She has been very sick and it was good to see her. Then off for home and rest before going to back to TSAC for Parable. I walked down a different street than usual and found some interesting things to take pictures of. I'm trying to be more spontaneous with my camera.

Parable last night was a good time of sharing with each other. Very deep, personal and authentic conversation. This is part of what I love about being a small group. We can share about our own walks with God and be there for each other. Also, I got to hold baby Colton most of the evening. He is growing so much, 5 months old now. He fell asleep on my shoulder and it was so wonderful to feel his tiny breath on my neck. He woke up in time to go home. I got my baby fix for the week!

That's about it for these last few days. There have been numerous conversations that God has allowed with different people, but due to privacy I don't tell about them. Just know that He is bringing opps into my path each day to share with people and that I thank Him for that.

I pray that you are finding lots of special moments in your days, too! Share the JOY!

March 25, 2009

Wednesday noon. Midweek. Reflecting back and looking forward.
I feel like I'm in 'that place' in my life right now, too. Actually, I feel that way a lot. And that's a good way to live. We get so focused on making the parts of our lives 'secure' and 'permanent' that we miss all those blessings God brings in 'each moment'. It's a daily challenge for me to give Him control of all things. (It's my nature to be in control myself.) But that keeps me from taking HIS control for granted.

Yesterday I was waking up for the day and thinking about the appointments I had set up. I was also feeling a little under the weather and hoping to find time for some good study and reading. But I left it up to God to help me feel up to the challenge of the day. Within 30 minutes, I received emails and text messages and the 3 appointments were all rescheduled (due to other people's needs) and I had the day free to stay in, rest, take care of my physical self, read and study. I love having God as my appointment secretary!! He knows exactly what I need and when.

Today I will serve dinner at GCN and then head off to the rescheduled Bible Study at Erin's. It will be great to see Erin and Christi after me being gone and then Erin being gone. It's been a few weeks since we've been together. We're studying 12 Extraordinary Women of the Bible. Each discussion brings out so much as God works in each of our lives in different ways. I'm so thankful for His Word and for Christian sisters to share with. No matter how much you study it, the Bible always has something new to say. It's more than a book of paper and ink. It's a vessel for understanding. A true blessing. Something to treasure, and use!!!

I'm really trying to be good and make healthy choices in my eating. It's fun sometimes and a pain (that it's not as easy as 'regular' food) at other times. Sometimes I get discouraged that I can be very diligent about food, but still have the queasiness and pain in my side. Some days I wish it would just go away. But no matter what, I'm thankful that it reminds me that it's just as important to pay close attention to my spiritual health each day, too.

We take our physical health for granted until we feel discomfort or pain. We take our spiritual health for granted until we run into uncomfortable or painful situations. Good health (both kinds) can help to avoid 'sickness' or at least help us to be more able to get through the 'treatment and recovery' process. The main thing is to listen to the Great Physician for both types of health issues. He created us and He knows what's best for us. The most important thing we can do is to take the time to LISTEN to Him daily. If we're too busy to have time with Him each day, then we're not just busy - we're wrong! And we need to make adjustments! If we don't, we not only end up terminally sick in the end, but we also miss out on the blessings of feeling healthy and robust each day. There's physical power in healthy foods and there is awesome spiritual power in walking close to Him daily.
This brings strength, energy, stamina, peace, happiness and JOY!


My favorite juice place on 9th Ave. My 'usual' is carrot/pear/orange/ginger. Yum!








I like how they cover Sunday...

March 23, 2009

It's Monday already. Time is sure flying by quickly.

Saturday I enjoyed a little walk to TSAC to rent the room for Parable worship for this week. It's still chilly out, but I'm liking the chance to get out and walk everyday. I stopped to take a picture and was looking at my camera as I started walking again and I walked right into a street sign. How stupid did I feel??? Later, I banged my head on one of my 2 cabinets in the apartment. I know I say that God sometimes has to hit me up side the head to get my attention, but I still haven't figured out what He wanted on that day...

I got to see Pepe, Roy and Louis at TSAC. It's nice to stay in touch, even if it's just for short visits. I came home and caught up on laundry and worked on my Bible study and did some reading. It was a nice Saturday.

Sunday I got the morning off from serving at Coffeehouse because Jenny and Keith helped serve lunch. I spent some wonderful time on Bible study and reading. My friend Erin came over for a short visit. Then I scurried off in the chilly air to Parable. I'm still in denial that it's okay for the weather to be cold. I WANT SPRING WEATHER! Anyway, we had a good night of discussing Saul/Paul and praying. We all took turns holding baby Colton. He is getting so big! I think he was having a nice time, too. Everyone was wanting to get home, so we didn't go out for dinner afterwards. I did stop in a deli for some hot soup and then headed home. It was kind of weird to be home from church on Sunday night before 10pm! I took advantage of the opportunity and called Nana Ruth for a nice chat.

Today I served lunch at Clinton. The weather is pretty cold today and very windy. I walked so fast to get there! It was fun to be therewith everyone. One of the ladies came back after being sick. As she came in with her walker everyone cheered and clapped. It was nice. Afterwards I jumped on 2 buses to get uptown and crosstown to see Allison and get my hair cut. I love to look at different neighborhoods and see what restaurants and stores are along the streets. Allison was laughing at me when I walked in because she saw me coming down the sidewalk and as I was gawking at buildings I almost walked right past the shop. We chatted about my visit to Arkansas and her upcoming trip to see family.

On my way back to the bus stop I visited a health food store to see what kinds of things they have. I found some wonderful organic baked tortilla chips. I ran by the market on the corner of my block and picked up a few goodies. I came home and made some homemade guacamole which I put on top of some browned ground turkey (an infrequent treat), black beans, black olives, soy sour cream and organic salsa. Yum!! I just love my little Magic Bullet personal blender. It makes the best guacamole and smoothies! Eating organic and fresh can be a pain sometimes, but besides being better for me, food just tastes better! I may have to have some leftovers for a snack later... For now, I'm having fresh strawberries for dessert. Yum.

My sister Pam is home from the hospital now. She is trying to get her body regulated after finding out that she is diabetic. She's had to make a few visits to the hospital. Hopefully, the doctors will get her insulin and other stuff figured out soon. Maybe we all should move to the middle of a farm somewhere and eat organic foods and bask in the sunshine.

I pray that all the people traveling for spring break will be safe and have a good time. I know that the economy has caused some families to stay home instead of going on a trip. That's not a bad thing. I think it's sad that some people find it depressing to have to spend time with each other without the distraction of destinations. One of the good things about the tight economy is that people are rediscovering how fulfilling it can be to just spend time with each other and doing simple things together. I pray that many will find new value in spending time just talking with God. No bells and whistles, just giving of your time and attention. How precious a gift for anyone...

March 20, 2009

Friday night. Home and settled in for the evening.

It seems that this week has been a long one, physically. I think maybe I was too pampered in Arkansas for almost 2 weeks. I've had to have a rest/nap almost everyday. I think I try to push myself like I'm totally healthy, too. I have to remember to be a better steward of my strength and energy. Being responsible about my physical needs reminds me to be disciplined about my spiritual needs, too. It's another reminder that every single thing in our lives is a gift from God and we should be thankful and careful of them.

It has also felt a little strange going back and forth between life here and downtime back in Rogers. Part of it, I think, is due to the difference in lifestyle and culture. Part of it may be due to a growing and changing perspective on living a life of service. It's kind of an opposite world. Instead of nesting and working toward security and permanency in a home, I'm striving to live as minimal and mobile as possible. It's not a hard way to live and I'm thankful for every little thing. But it is a daily effort to remember that life is about the 'serving' and not the 'having'. For me, it makes it easier for me to see the riches of God in my life. And I'm truly thankful.

Yesterday I spent a lot of time on my Bible study, had a good long nap and then went to serve at Coffeehouse. It's always so much fun to work there. The clients are probably the most interesting and diverse. On Thursday night, the regular crew are joined by some of the crew from Clinton (where I work on Mondays and Fridays). It felt like a party last night when I walked in to the kitchen. I like doing the coffee/tea station because I get to say something to each client. Some are very friendly. With every week, I become more familiar with some of the people. I am inspired by Mrs. Debbie, who I read about in a book entitled "Same Kind of Different As Me". It's a great book about how someone can make a difference in lives just by doing simple things consistently for others. (read it if you get the chance!)

This morning I woke up to snow flurries. Crazy weather! It was in the 30s today, so after the snow quit around 1pm, it was still 'wintry' when I was walking home after my shift. In my mind it is 70s and 80s and very sunny. What a shock to my system to walk outside and into reality! Today was the last day for one of the other volunteers. Martha is so sweet. She will be missed. She's getting a full time job. I did get a picture of me with her. I told her she needs to visit on Mondays and Fridays so that I can see her.

The center was quieter today, due to a large portion of the clients being on a trip to Atlantic City. I bet that bus was hopping!! I met a lady today that I have something in common with. She was also wearing a ring on her thumb. She had on a lot of pretty jewelry, so the ring may be just another pretty thing to wear.

But it made me wonder if I had mentioned my ring. At the beginning of this year, I had a very serious conversation with God and made a commitment to continue to serve Him full time no matter what, in whatever way He decides, wherever He sends me. To celebrate that covenant, I used some Christmas money to buy a silver ring for my thumb. I wear it on my thumb for a couple of reasons... I tend to give the 'thumbs up' sign when things are good. Having the ring there reminds me that God is the giver of all good things, and it helps me remember to thank Him. Also, a long time ago, I had a Christian lapel pin that showed a person in the palm of a large hand. It was to depict Isaiah 49:16 "Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of my hands..." (some translations say 'engraved your name', but I like the word picture of a body instead of a name.) Whenever I have been truly upset and even desolate, I have pictured myself all curled up in the palm of God's hand. Safe and comfy with my arms wrapped around His thumb. That may sound silly, but that is truly how God makes me feel... all safe and totally resting in Him, letting go of everything and just letting Him hold me firmly but softly. So, that's the story of my ring...

You may have noticed that I'm a visual person. I like to have tangible reminders of important things. They bring me Joy!

March 18, 2009

Wednesday night. Feeling good and tired and reflective.

Sunday I served lunch at Coffeehouse. It was good to see Alfonso, Myra and Augustine again. And I always like serving the people there. Then we had a small group at Parable on Sunday night. A few people were sick, a few out of town, a few were working, a few were recovering from working too much... We had a good discussion, lots of prayer, and then we went out to eat afterwards. After that, four of us went to the Virgin Records store at Times Square. It's closing down and having a huge clearance sale. Even the store fixtures are on sale. So many businesses are closing...

Monday I served at Clinton. There were a couple of people there who are part of a work program. One guy was very interesting to talk with about his other work assignments. I spent a large part of Monday evening reading and working on my Bible study.

Tuesday I took 2 big bags of socks to GCN. (Augustine told me that the socks were a big hit at Coffeehouse. People changed into their new socks right on the spot!) Maura said they can always use new socks at GCN. Thank you kids from Shining Stars Preschool in Rogers AR!! You've made many feet in NYC very happy!!

Today I spent the morning with my friend Erin, who was released from the hospital. I went over to NYU Medical Center on the East Side and helped her get home. She took a shower and got all tucked into bed and we chatted a little. I've really missed talking with her since she's been sick for the better part of the last 6 months. Please keep her in your prayers to get better and be her wonderful 'old' self.

I came back across town and had lunch. I stopped in at Europan restaurant and grabbed a simple spinach salad and then came home and added some veggies that I had on hand. I also made a tuna sandwich with soy mayo. It was pretty good. Then back across town to serve dinner. I worked really hard at GCN tonight. It was fun. Vanessa said I should get a raise. I think instead of $0 I'll get $00. ha

I stopped off at Whole Foods for some good grub and came home for hummus, pita bread, green peppers and grapes. I don't really make meals anymore. It's more like grazing. But I'm enjoying it.

I found out that my brother-in-law is home now, but my sister is in the hospital with her diabetes problems again. Hopefully they will both be home and recovering by the weekend.

I'm very tired tonight, but loving the chance to get to run around the city in decent weather. I'm ready for spring! I can't wait to get back over to Central Park for a full day of taking pictures. I need to check out the upper half of the park. I covered a lot of the lower and middle parts one day last summer. I won't be chowing on the hotdogs this time, though!

I realized that the cable to down load pictures from my camera are in one of the boxes that I had shipped to me from Rogers, so I'll have to add pics to the previous postings a little later.

I'm still feeling blessed by my trip to AR for GIC. I've had some really nice messages from people that I had the chance to speak with. God is so good in helping me share my heart. I'm thankful that He fills it with His love. I'm also thankful for all the ways He shows me Joy.

March 14, 2009

Saturday evening. I'm home catching up on correspondence and watching a little tv. I was up early and fit in a nice nap early afternoon.

Yesterday I enjoyed serving lunch at the Clinton center. Then I walked down to the TSAC (our old building) and rented the room for Parable worship for tomorrow night. I stopped in to say hi to Carmen and Thom, who work in the rental office. I grabbed a hug from a very busy John Cooper and said hi to Paulina. It's really good to see how well Turtleshell Productions is doing, but I miss getting the chance to talk with John and Paulina. I hung around in the lobby chatting with Pepe while waiting to meet up with Mike. I like feeling welcome in the old building.

Mike and I had a good lunch at Uncle Nick's Greek restaurant. I loved the grilled lamb and veggies. We were able to spend a few hours talking in peace and quiet. It was really nice. There was lots to catch up on. I'm very blessed to work with Mike and to have him as a friend.

I stopped by Whole Foods and loaded up on some good produce and organic stuff. I love fruits and veggies... All in all I walked about 3 miles for the day (kind of normal). It was nice to get out and get some exercise and fresh (?) air. I was good and tired by bedtime, too. (I was way too pampered in AR!)

GIC in AR was very good for me. Besides being pampered and loved on, getting rest and sharing with many people, God also used that time to continue giving me a new perspective on serving Him. It's a continual journey that changes a little each day. To be the most effective for Him, it's important to watch everyday for the subtleties of each moment. There is so much to be done for Him. The more we are willing to invest of ourselves, the more involved He allows us to be. What an opportunity. And what a way to grow. I'm so thankful for the relationship He allows me to have with Him.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Okay, now I'm caught up on the day-to-day reporting from AR.

My plane took off just fine at 10-ish this morning. (the crew didn't show up until 15 mins before departure, so I wasn't too sure we would make it on time) The flight was uneventful and I even grabbed a little nap. I arrived in NYC on time, found my luggage right away, and then waited for what seemed like forever for the grumpy shuttle van driver to show up. Yep, I was back in NYC!!

I made it home about 4pm (2 hours after the plane landed) and called to see how things were going at the Coffeehouse for tonight. They had enough volunteers since they thought I was still out of town, so I got the evening off.

I ran to the corner market for a few food items, came home and fixed dinner (no pushing the envelope on the healthy eating now that I'm home) and settled in on the sofa in my jammies with the computer on my lap. I've got a long list of thank yous to send, 2 suitcases and a backpack to unload (I think they gained weight on the plane) and lots of memories to record. Life is good.

I'll meet with Mike tomorrow to catch up on all things Parable and I'll serve lunch at Clinton center. I'm looking forward to a trip to Whole Foods to load up on produce and organic stuff! Yay!

I really had a great time in AR. It was so refreshing, invigorating, healing and wonderful. I've been on the planning and executing side of GIC plenty, but it was very nice (and strange) to be on the receiving side of it. I want everyone to know how much they have touched me. For those I missed talking to, I'll rely on God to share some love with them.

I feel even more dedicated to serving God in HIS way and timing. For me that means less and less control on my end of what He brings into my life. Everything about our lives are for a season, and only God knows how long those seasons are to last. We're so much more effective for Him when we let go of the control in our lives and let Him reveal His plans. It's very opposite of my personality to not have a full understanding of plans (and plan Bs). It is so liberating (and scary) to live life day to day waiting for Him to show me the opportunities that He has waiting for me. I vow to Him to try to live each day focusing more on the moment so that I don't miss what I'm supposed to do. I trust Him completely. I love being 'mobile' and will try to keep my physical, emotional and spiritual suitcases packed and ready for the next 'adventure' He sends me on. Whether that is right here, a short hop away or across the world. I'm ready to 'ship out' or 'hunker down', whatever He calls me to do.

I'm so thankful for all the prayers and love and support from wonderful Christian friends. We're all in this ministry together. Some of us are feet, some are eyes, some are mouths, some are... But we're all part of the same body. And the body all works together for the same purpose. I'm glad we're all connected. And this means we get to share the JOY!!!

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Oh my! I started the day with a lovely massage! Thank you Michelle Foster for the wonderful gift! You are great at this! I recommend you to all my friends in NW Arkansas!!
It was really nice to visit with Michelle while getting the very relaxing massage.

I snuck another trip to one of the Walmarts in Rogers. I know it sounds like I was spending a lot of money, but really I wasn't. I was just grabbing some much needed items that are so much cheaper in Rogers than in NYC.

Lunch with Cindy at Marketplace Express was very yummy and reminded me a lot of NYC. Except of course that it was at a free standing building, clean sidewalks, roomy interior and not crowded. :) It was a surprise to see Michael and David there, too. I just love running into people!

Yet another trip to the other Rogers Walmart to find something I was wanting to find. Thank you Cindy for the birthday shoes!

I was lucky to spend a little time chatting with John Caubble, who is my missions-mentor. We shared a lot of insight and gave each other some things to be thinking and praying about.

Back to the church to hang out until time to go to the airport. Mid-afternoon I received a call from the airlines saying they were delaying my flight 2 hours. I cheerily said 'thanks!' and I think the caller was wondering if a. I misunderstood or b. I'm crazy. The answer is b. Really, I was glad to get to spend a little more time with the peeps at FBCR. I got the chance to see a few more people and get some more hugs!

Kellie and Cindy took me to the airport and I got all checked in. We waited on the plane to finally show up after more delays. We boarded and got belted in. Then they de-planed us and said the flight was cancelled due to 'crew legality', which I interpreted to mean that they crew would be flying too many hours if the flight went out. Since XNA airport doesn't have a stable of planes or crews, there was to be no more flying that night. Others needed hotel vouchers and early morning flights. I scurried to the ticketing desk and told them I didn't need a hotel room and that I would take a later morning flight so that others could go out early. Now, my motivation was purely for others... I didn't want to get up for a 6:30am flight!! I called Kellie to come back to get me, changed my shuttle van reservation in NYC for the new flight, grabbed my luggage and settled in with a hot cup of tea to watch for my ride. I felt bad for the other passengers who were 'stuck' in NWA another night. I was happy! Nana Ruth was very willing to offer her spare room for another night. This change really worked out well for me. Otherwise I was going to end up at my apartment in the middle of the night (by the time I got home from LGA). This way, I got a good night's sleep in Rogers and then made it home in the afternoon of the next day.

I was pretty mellow. I know people were praying for my travel home. Also, the massage helped a little to keep me calm, (ya think?)

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

I got to start the day with a nice visit with Bro Wes (the Sr Pastor at my home church). We talked a lot about how God works in our lives in unexpected ways. I have a lot of respect for Bro Wes and his wisdom and integrity. I know I don't tell him that often enough. (if you see him, let him know!)

I was blessed on this day to get an eye exam. So many people have honored me with gifts and services. It is so wonderful and helpful!

I ran back out to the Lifeway Christian Store to pick up some Bibles and books. I was happy to run in to Sherry, who I haven't seen in years. We are friends on facebook, so we have chatted just a little. It was nice to get a hug!

I had lunch with my friend Linda, who I met the first year in AR (1990). It was good to catch up with her. I'm promising everyone to be better about correspondence. Being 'friends' on facebook helps a lot. Having this blog is a really big help to me, too. Anyway, Linda and I had lunch at Mi-Mi's restaurant. Every place I go I had enjoyed trying interesting things on the menus. Even with my special diet, I can find things that will suffice. I'm probably enjoying the experimenting more than I enjoyed foods before. And I know that I feel better.

I visited with Mrs. Christy (my neighbor when I lived in the 'church' apartments) for a little while. She has meant so much to me. She took such good care of me over the years. She is honest, fair, frank, loving and wonderful. I miss living right next door to her.

Dinner was spent with the Janes family. They are soooo much fun! After eating at A Taste of Thai restaurant, the kids performed a puppet show for me and we videoed it. the kids also played musical instruments for me. Then we took lots of pictures and had dessert. It was fun to hang out with them.

I'm still wondering how all these kids keep growing up so much...

Monday, March 9, 2009

I woke up another year older. After hitting 50 and moving to NYC, each additional year doesn't seem like such a big deal. It was really fun to spend the day in Rogers, though. I went to lunch with Kellie, hung out at FBCR, hit Walmart another time, had dinner with my friend Zandra and her daughter Hannah, gave the car back to the Browns and went to bed feeling very blessed.

I received tons of birthday wishes on facebook and I thank everyone for those! How fun to have my phone buzzing off and on all day long with calls, emails and facebook messages. I was truly blessed.

The Janes family called and sang Happy Birthday to me over the phone. It was wonderful... down to the last cha-cha-cha!

Lunch was at Maria's Mexican restaurant and I filled up on the meat and veggies from the fajitas! I saw a few friends there, which was fun.

Dinner with Zandra and Hannah was at Copelands New Orleans restaurant. Hannah got to enjoy my free birthday sundae. I enjoyed watching her. I did steal a couple of bites of Zandra's cheesecake. It was good. I also enjoyed the gumbo ya-ya and cesar salad with grilled shrimp. Yum! Zandra is one of the first people I met when moving to AR in March of 1990. She immediately invited me to church. I'll always remember that. Hannah has always called me Vickie Bead because we would make tons of stuff with the millions of beads I had when babysitting her. I always love spending time with Zandra. She's a special friend.

It was a good birthday. I'm still waiting to see what surprises God has in store for me this year!
I know it will be JOYFUL!!

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Staying in 2 different places over these 11 days has it’s challenges. I realized when getting dressed for church that my dress pants were still at Nana Ruth’s house. I called her and she brought them to church and I changed quickly in the bathroom. Everyone loved the jacket I received from Kaye. It was nice to dress up. I don’t ever dress up in NYC.
I was blessed to talk with 3 ladies Adult Bible Fellowship (ABF) classes. I still call them Sunday School classes, but I’m trying to be politically correct in the label! It was fun to share my life with them. They are so good to help support me in NYC. Their checks and their prayers are like gold to me. I love them all so much.
Worship service was special for GIC, with a guest speaker who was very good, music by Children of the World which was interesting, but I have to say I really missed the choir and orchestra and especially hearing Bro Wes speak. I love my ‘home’ church, and as Bro Wes says “in my humble and accurate opinion” we have the best church around, especially when it comes to missions!!
I was blessed to a fun lunch with the Rezniceks. We went to Colton’s and I had the best grilled salmon and baked sweet potato. I really enjoyed eating peanuts and throwing them on the floor, too! We had such a good visit. I’m so thankful for the time with them.
I packed up my stuff at Kaye and Dean’s and headed back to Nana Ruth’s house. I couldn’t believe how much stuff there was to carry in! I’m definitely going to ship a box back to NYC!
Nana Ruth and I enjoyed an afternoon talking and I fought off a nap as hard as I could, but finally succumbed about 6pm. Then we had our individual little meals and watched the movie ‘Fireproof’. It was a nice evening. I still went to bed early (for me) at 10pm. But keeping in mind that NYC is 1 hour ahead, it doesn’t seem so early after all. A good night’s sleep was had by all.
Now I can spend a couple of days just running around and enjoying people before I head back to the city. I do have an eye exam scheduled for tomorrow, which is a huge blessing. Some lunch dates and some more shopping for necessities at Walmart will round out the stay.
I’m enjoying this time of relaxing and rejuvenation. God is so good and He uses His people to bless each other. I’m so thankful and full of JOY!

Saturday, March 7, 2009

This day started with a luncheon for the lady Ms and the ladies of FBCR. (the men Ms were treated to an early breakfast and some kind of manly outing.) Yummy chicken wraps and salad hit the spot on my food plan! I enjoyed it very much. My table-mates were fun to talk with. There are so many people who have been role models for me and great encouragers. I know I have not thanked them enough. I hope that God will give them a big heart-hug from me.
The 3 year old choir sang for us. How precious!! Then we M ladies sat up front and were asked questions about our lives and our ministries. It was very informative and funny. I enjoyed it very much.
After the luncheon, I got to spend a few hours with one of my best friends from Rogers and cohort from years past, Sherrie. It was sooooo wonderful to be with her. We have worked beside each other in millions of hours of serving with missions and the puppet team and creative ministries team and Youth on Mission and mission trips to Monterrey MX , and on and on… She is such a blessing to me!!! We hit the new Target store that opened here in Rogers, TJ Maxx (to get a top for me to wear with a beautiful jacket I received from Miss Kaye), and then off to the Lifeway Christian store! I picked out a wonderful new Bible for my brother-in-law. I could spend days in that store, but we went back to the church and sat and talked for awhile. It was a great afternoon.
I got the chance to talk with kids on Saturday evening. My friend Jeff used a puppet to interview me. The kids listened really well and asked a few questions. I visited the breakout rooms that they were rotating through for missions movie and popcorn, Bible study, crafts, activities and more. It was so fun. The theme was baseball and one of the crafts was to make a picture frame using little baseball bats. My picture, with a baseball hat superimposed on my head, was put in the frame. It looks really funny and fun!
I was allowed an early evening, so off to the Burns’ for some more rest. Their granddaughter, Sarah came by to visit. We talked about her life as a highschool student and dancer. We also reminisced about when I used to babysit her and her brother, Kris. Again… these kids keep growing up!!
Just thinking about changing the clocks for the next day made us tired, so I went to bed really early Sat night. It was nice!

Friday, March 6, 2009

This day started off with a luncheon for the Ms and the FBC Rogers staff. It was good to chat with some of the people that I served with while on staff myself for 3 years. I have to say that I wasn’t very good about my food situation today. I went to the luncheon very hungry and ate too much protein since it was the only thing I could eat. I ended up sick for the afternoon. That just reminded me that I can’t do this on my own. I need God’s grace to get me through each day at the food trough. After some tummy meds, green tea and a restful visit with two lovely friends, I was feeling much better. I did, however, opt to skip the Children of the World concert and stay in for the night. A dinner of just veggies had me back on track, and giving control back to God.
At the Staff Luncheon, Bro Wes asked the Ms if there was anything we wanted the Staff to pray over us about. I thought about asking for healing from the liver stuff, but the more that I think about it, I am thankful that it is actually a day-to-day process. It keeps me connected to God just that much more closely. It also reminds me that like the diligence of watching what goes into my body, I need to be just as diligent about what is going into my heart and mind every day. I need these hands-on experiences to make it stick!
Having tea with Nancy and Jean was so refreshing. We chatted and looked at NYC pics and they blessed me with a wonderful love gift and also a really neat Bible to use for leading study groups. How precious!

It’s been so relaxing staying with Kaye and Dean. Kaye and I talk about foods (she’s an awesome caterer), family, faith and lots of female stuff! Dean is fun to tease. He’s very serious. I count it a joy when I can make him grin. Staying in their guest room is like being in the best NYC hotel. (well, at least what I would imagine it to be!) They are very gracious and generous in offering me a refreshing respite.

Thursday, March 5, 2009

I’m staying in two different homes while in Rogers, so my stuff is strung out across town, including leaving things in Kellie’s office. After a yummy bowl of Kaye’s oatmeal and morning chat with her and Dean, I headed off to collect things I needed for the day. Lunch with the Senior Adult ministry was great. It’s so good to see friends and hear what all is going on with them. The Saints Alive Choir (senior adult choir) sang beautifully and I loved every note!
All the Ms trotted over to the auditorium for some Q & A time with the Christian School kids. Many of them remembered me as the Puppet Lady, who would perform puppets in Chapel every once in a while. These kids also collected socks to send to me in NYC to be given out to the homeless. My, how they are growing up.
I was blessed to spend an hour with my former neighbor, Mrs. Christy. She is a very special lady in my life. She was there to take care of me during illness, drive me to and from work when I had a walking cast, be a loving mentor, and just a great all around neighbor!
Then off to a dinner hosted by 3 of the Adult Bible Fellowship classes who are sponsoring me this week. We ate at Golden Corral, which had plenty of variety of good stuff for me. And I have to say that the ‘bad’ stuff looked pretty good, too. But I’ve been faithful to eat what’s best for me. And I can assure you that it is taking a lot of Grace from God to do it. Anyway, these lovely people listened to me ramble about serving in NYC and how faithful God has been to me. They asked questions, listened intently and even laughed at my jokes! Now that’s true friendship. In this group of people are some of best role models and encouragers I have been blessed to know. They showered me with gifts (much needed lotions and potions) and money to help me make it in NYC. They are my heroes.
This week has really flown by, but it has been so full, that it feels like it’s been more than a week here. I’m soaking up every minute of it.
God is so full of love and compassion. He gives us so much in our lives to make us happy. I’m so thankful to Him.
Now, off to bed so I can start another fun filled day tomorrow!!

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

I started the day (after quiet time and journaling, of course) by working for 3 hours on putting together the slideshow of NYC pics for my GIC display. It’s so hard to choose what pics to use and if there are too many or not enough and… I finally finished this project about 30 minutes before the displays had to be open. A few hours were spent on putting together all the stuff I had brought from NYC. It’s the first time that I have done a display for Parable and my ministry in NYC. It didn’t turn out too bad, if I do say so myself.
I put out a hat with ‘good deed’ coins for people to take as a reminder to do something for someone else, that no deed is too small to matter, and to be faithful in giving to missions and ministry. I also put out some fake tattoos just for fun! Hobby Lobby had some white Christmas type lights really cheap, so I strung them across the top of the display. If you squint your eyes and move your head really fast they look kind of like the skyline of NYC. Well, sort of…
We had a yummy meal for the Ms and their hosts, then off to the auditorium for the kick-off celebration. Oh how I miss the wonderful music of FBC Rogers’ choir and orchestra! The Brooklyn Tab has nothing on them, let me tell ya! There were flags from many nations presented. It was really nice.
The service was great. The Youth choir sang, the Worship choir sang, the Children’s choir sang, everyone sang, clapped and praised our wonderful God. Four people were baptized. One of them was a guy who had been prayed for during the entire time that Pastor Jaime has been at the church. After six years of prayers, this man accepted Christ as Savior. When he came up out of the water, he turned and gave Jaime the biggest bear hug. What a way to express the tremendous joy in his heart! I did pretty good about not getting emotional until they called all the Ms to the stage and at the end all the congregation stood up and clapped for us. It is soooo humbling and an honor to serve our God. It just set off floodgates from my eyes! Oh well, they were heavenly tears! I’m not ashamed of the tears, but I do make some really weird faces when trying not to cry. But I wasn’t the only one up there with wet eyes. God fills our hearts with emotion and sometimes it just overflows. I’m so thankful to feel those emotions from Him. (even if I do make funny faces) The end of the service was a time for personal commitment to God’s call for ministry and missions service locally and abroad. Dozens and dozens of people came forward to the altar to acknowledge that decision publically. Happy tears were flowing!!
After the service, our displays were open and people came by for hugs and kisses and to check out what our ministries are all about. It was so much fun to see everyone! Again, I marvel at how these kids can grow up so much when I’m not getting any older! Ha
It was such a great night. To God be all glory and honor and praise and love and respect and …

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

This is tune-up day. I tried to fit all the appointments I could into this day to get them over with. At 7:45am I had a mammogram (so early - what was I thinking?) which didn’t take long at all at that time of the morning. I had a wonderful conversation about missions with Penny, who registered me in, and then a good talk with Deanna who did the torture. I gave both ladies my card and asked them to contact me when their particular discussed ‘life event’ took place. I’ll be praying for both of these ladies.
I had time before the next appointment to stop in at Walmart. I actually got to push a full-size shopping cart around the store (not too many big carts – or carts at all – in NYC. I couldn’t believe the prices! I want to buy everything and take it back to NYC! I miss the lower cost of living here. But, I’m glad that it makes it easier for those who send me stuff.
Then I proceeded to find my way to my next Dr appointment which is in a new building in a part of town that didn’t have roads before. Driving wasn’t so bad, but these new roads made me feel disoriented. Kind of like I feel when I come up from the subway and have to get my bearings on N,S,E,or W. To make it even more of a challenge, one of the long time landmarks, Oakley Chapel Methodist Church, which always faced north, had been moved and switched to face west when the new adjacent facility was built. Now, that flipped me out for a moment. I know that my Dr.’s new office was next to the new hospital (which had also been built since I’ve been gone), but I didn’t know how to get to it either. How thankful I was to see that universal square blue sign with the big H on it. I just followed that and found the building. Inside, I saw a friend who volunteers at the info desk. How fun! Then off to the Dr.’s office. It was nice to Brenda and Dr. Hargus. Fun stories were shared, but I won’t divulge the details. A girl’s gotta have some privacy! Leaving the building I ran into another friend. It was a good morning!
After a quick bite of lunch, a stop at Hobby Lobby (a favorite store, and by the way God, thanks for putting the stuff I needed on sale this week!) and run by the bank, I visited my dentist for a free cleaning. A very nice blessing! Thank you Dr. Jeffery’s office! We got to chat a little about NYC and I gave them my card so they will remember to pray for me (and my teeth).
The evening was a fun time of a ‘henna’ party with my friend Megan who is an M in a North African country. She was speaking to, and doing henna for the highschool girl’s Bible Fellowship Class. Another friend, Maria, who is an M in Baltimore was there. It was really fun. There were even a few guys there to get some henna designs on their arms, too.A very special friend and former mentee, Brittany, played her guitar and sang a song she has written and recorded on demo for me. It was awesome! I had goose-bumps! She will always have a very special place in my heart. She is growing into quite the young lady.

Monday, March 2, 2009

I arrived at my home church (FBC Rogers) with video cam in hand. It was awesome to catch people’s expressions when they realized it was me. It’s been well over a year since I have seen most of them, and the very short gray hair has changed my appearance. Needless to say, there were tons of hugs all day.
My friend Kellie and I went to the health food store for a quick lunch and some food shopping. Thank you to my friends who gave me some cash for the food! As much as I like this store, this town could really use a Whole Foods store!
I had dinner with my friends the Browns. They always make me feel like family. They were going out of town for a few days and insisted that I borrow one of their cars. Actually, they insisted that if I didn’t use the car, I would be stealing their blessing. So, after reminding them that I have only driven 3 times in the last 2 years, I set off with my wheels. There were no mishaps on the way back to Rogers. Thank you God for seriously being my co-pilot!

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Left my apartment at 7:20am by shuttle van to the airport. The driver was not too crazy, but he drove a little jerk-y, so I was glad I took my ginger pills to ward off motion sickness. I got to the airport a couple of hours early, so I parked myself at the food court with a juice and did some Bible study.
As the plane took off, it seemed that everyone was quiet, but not too tense. However, once we were airborne without bird attacks, everyone seemed to start chatting. I think the ‘miracle on the Hudson’ was on our minds just a little bit…After a brief layover in Dallas, I made it to NW Arkansas. Looking down at the landscape and all the hundreds of chicken houses, I knew I was ‘home’. The Janes family picked me up at the airport and I couldn’t believe how much the kids have grown. Have I really been gone that long? I was safely deposited at Nana Ruth’s house and after dinner and a long chat, snuggled in to bed tried to sleep in this quiet place. I had brought my ‘noise machine’ with me just in case, and used it to sleep by.