It's hard to have fun when there are so many displaced and uncertain. The weather here is breezy and the waves are really showing out. As I type, I hear the sound of fork lifts removing the beach chairs from the sand below our condo...a reminder of the reality we face here as well. Gustav should make landfall in the am tomorrow and I'm sure our day will consist of TV watching and games...maybe a little napping too. We are having a good time in spite of the conditions but we can't escape the reality that some lives will be changed forever after tomorrow. We are praying for those affected while back home our wonderful church family is being hands and feet to evacuees. We are so blessed to have family eager, ready and willing to help out in times like these.
Our first day was a pool day...because of the strong wind, the sand became more like a beating rather than relaxation. We spent it at the kiddie pool and I must say, our girls had a blast. Our friends, The Hall's are here with us for a couple of days too and little MK loves the water. They played really hard and enjoyed the shallow water. Our condo is wonderful and very well appointed. We decided to take our beach pictures this afternoon since we were ucertain as to the weather for the rest of the week. I'll post a few of those tomorrow. SC is in bed and SJ....well, she's on vacation....meaning she's still up but about to be put to bed!
I'm signing off.....more tomorrow....
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Counting down...
Well, our family is counting down the days until our vacation. SJ is so very excited and ready to build sand castles and play in the water. I'm ready too...it's been a long summer filled with lots of trials and challenges. Not only does this week find us getting ready for the beach but for a Fun First Birthday for Ms. SC. She'll be 1 on Thursday. I know what you're all saying, "I can't believe she's already one". Let me say, "neither can I".
I'm always fascinated how time catches up and passes you by just when you think you're prepared for it. I had been anticipating her birthday and thinking about what to do and all of a sudden, it's here. I'm feeling a little sad knowing that she's not a baby anymore and has entered that "toddler" stage. Her cruising around the house, drinking from a cup, eating table food and weaning from the bottle has made reality very clear....she's growing up.
I remember very well how it felt to go back to work after being at home with SJ when we returned from China. As I stood in our bedroom holding her before I was about to walk out the door, Cliff reminded me, "Five minutes after their born, we as parents must begin to let go." There's never been a truer statement. Letting go....not my favorite pastime. However, I can thankfully say that Jesus is ready to take over as I relenquish my "hold" on my girls. I'm learning more each day just how much I need His protection and watch care around my children.
I guess this post is to be a reminder to all parents and grandparents that time is precious and so are our children. I encourage you to live every moment to is't fullest and don't waste one second....SC calls for me...I must go.
I'll post again, probably from the beach! SPLASH!
I'm always fascinated how time catches up and passes you by just when you think you're prepared for it. I had been anticipating her birthday and thinking about what to do and all of a sudden, it's here. I'm feeling a little sad knowing that she's not a baby anymore and has entered that "toddler" stage. Her cruising around the house, drinking from a cup, eating table food and weaning from the bottle has made reality very clear....she's growing up.
I remember very well how it felt to go back to work after being at home with SJ when we returned from China. As I stood in our bedroom holding her before I was about to walk out the door, Cliff reminded me, "Five minutes after their born, we as parents must begin to let go." There's never been a truer statement. Letting go....not my favorite pastime. However, I can thankfully say that Jesus is ready to take over as I relenquish my "hold" on my girls. I'm learning more each day just how much I need His protection and watch care around my children.
I guess this post is to be a reminder to all parents and grandparents that time is precious and so are our children. I encourage you to live every moment to is't fullest and don't waste one second....SC calls for me...I must go.
I'll post again, probably from the beach! SPLASH!
Monday, August 18, 2008
First Ballet Lesson
Well, she did great! I was sort of nervous about her being able to take instructions and listen but she loved it and can't wait to go back. Her teacher has 4 children and her youngest daughter is also in class with SJ. Mrs. Lindsay, her teacher, danced with Ballet Memphis for years and has returned after having her children to teach and dance again. I am pleased with the program and the attention to detail. I hope SJ will continue to love it. If not, we'll try something else. I've posted a scrapbook with just a few pics. We learned to curtsy this week.....Later!
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Back in the land of the living....
All is better at the Pace house. No one is sick and we are getting back into our routine. Tomorrow is Sunday and we are all excited to be back in worship and with our friends and family. Next week will be special as SJ will begin ballet lessons on Monday. We bought her leotard and ballet shoes today. As she tried on her leotard in the dressing room she commented with a grin, "OOH, Mommy can I keep it on now"?
I'm sure she'll be sleeping in it next week!
Anyway, we are glad to be home for a while and eager to get back to doing "normal" stuff. I'll post pics of Nicaragua and of our first ballet lesson on Monday. Until then....
I'm sure she'll be sleeping in it next week!
Anyway, we are glad to be home for a while and eager to get back to doing "normal" stuff. I'll post pics of Nicaragua and of our first ballet lesson on Monday. Until then....
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Grace in Time of Need...
God gives us what we need exactly when we need it. He proved this to our family this week. We returned from Nicaragua on Saturday evening around 8pm. We quickly prepared for bed as we would be heading to church bright and early the next morning.
During the night, SC woke up with a fever. I checked her and determined that it wasn't too bad but she still was pretty fitful. After some Ibuprofen, she went back to sleep. Early the next morning, SJ came to our room. She was not her usual self....very sluggish and whiney. CDP dressed and left for church and since SC had run fever during the night, we determined that the girls and I should stay at home.
SJ eventually began running a fever and vomiting. I also began experiencing tummy issues. CDP called during the morning and promised to bring home sprite and nausea medicine for SJ.
While enroute to the house, he received a call that his Dad had died.
I've not posted much about his dad's illness simply because we didn't really know what was going on. He fell several weeks ago and received a nasty bump on his head as well as a broken rib. We were told by the doctors that the bump on his head had caused some bleeding on his brain and that surgery was necessary. The surgery was risky because of some issues he had with his lungs. CDP's dad was a smoker for most of his life. Emphysema had taken it's toll on his lungs. Being put to sleep was a risk in itself. He survived the surgery but never recovered from the effects. He died around 11:30 Sunday morning.
We left Sunday afternoon and drove back to Lake to be with his sister and brothers. SC's fever had broken and she was fine. SJ was sick and the trip down was hard for her. My tummy issues had begun to be more severe. We were a pitiful bunch!
In the midst of all of this, God was real. He provided the rest we needed in order to be be ready for a funeral on Tuesday. SJ was transformed on Sunday night and Monday morning was ready to eat. Sadie continued to be fine. Me, well, I'm still fighting with my tummy...but it is better. CDP preached the funeral of his father. I have to tell you that it was probably the hardest thing he has ever had to do. I am blessed to say that his Dad was remembered, God was honored and the truth was proclaimed. Just to sum up the service: Make sure that you leave the assurance of hope to your family when you die! Money, possessions,characteristics and even physical resemblances won't mean anything without the full assurance that you'll see them again one day...in Heaven. Your Godly examply and unselfish life will be the legacy that gives your family hope in the days of mourning.
Do you know that Christ has paid for your sins? Have you repented and asked Him to forgive you? Have you applied the blood of Christ to your sin stained heart? If not, then now is the time. If you have received the gift of eternal life thru Christ, are you living in such a way that it is evident? Are you living a Godly example before your children and grandchildren? Are you living in such a way that Christ recognizes you as one of HIS? CDP's brother said it best..."Obedience is required." Are you being obedient to Christ and His Word? If not, then it's time to examine your relationship with your Saviour. If so, then you will be able to leave the "full assurance of hope" to your children when God calls you home. That hope is priceless and pales in comparison to any amount of money or possessions you may leave behind. Be sure. Make sure. Today!
During the night, SC woke up with a fever. I checked her and determined that it wasn't too bad but she still was pretty fitful. After some Ibuprofen, she went back to sleep. Early the next morning, SJ came to our room. She was not her usual self....very sluggish and whiney. CDP dressed and left for church and since SC had run fever during the night, we determined that the girls and I should stay at home.
SJ eventually began running a fever and vomiting. I also began experiencing tummy issues. CDP called during the morning and promised to bring home sprite and nausea medicine for SJ.
While enroute to the house, he received a call that his Dad had died.
I've not posted much about his dad's illness simply because we didn't really know what was going on. He fell several weeks ago and received a nasty bump on his head as well as a broken rib. We were told by the doctors that the bump on his head had caused some bleeding on his brain and that surgery was necessary. The surgery was risky because of some issues he had with his lungs. CDP's dad was a smoker for most of his life. Emphysema had taken it's toll on his lungs. Being put to sleep was a risk in itself. He survived the surgery but never recovered from the effects. He died around 11:30 Sunday morning.
We left Sunday afternoon and drove back to Lake to be with his sister and brothers. SC's fever had broken and she was fine. SJ was sick and the trip down was hard for her. My tummy issues had begun to be more severe. We were a pitiful bunch!
In the midst of all of this, God was real. He provided the rest we needed in order to be be ready for a funeral on Tuesday. SJ was transformed on Sunday night and Monday morning was ready to eat. Sadie continued to be fine. Me, well, I'm still fighting with my tummy...but it is better. CDP preached the funeral of his father. I have to tell you that it was probably the hardest thing he has ever had to do. I am blessed to say that his Dad was remembered, God was honored and the truth was proclaimed. Just to sum up the service: Make sure that you leave the assurance of hope to your family when you die! Money, possessions,characteristics and even physical resemblances won't mean anything without the full assurance that you'll see them again one day...in Heaven. Your Godly examply and unselfish life will be the legacy that gives your family hope in the days of mourning.
Do you know that Christ has paid for your sins? Have you repented and asked Him to forgive you? Have you applied the blood of Christ to your sin stained heart? If not, then now is the time. If you have received the gift of eternal life thru Christ, are you living in such a way that it is evident? Are you living a Godly example before your children and grandchildren? Are you living in such a way that Christ recognizes you as one of HIS? CDP's brother said it best..."Obedience is required." Are you being obedient to Christ and His Word? If not, then it's time to examine your relationship with your Saviour. If so, then you will be able to leave the "full assurance of hope" to your children when God calls you home. That hope is priceless and pales in comparison to any amount of money or possessions you may leave behind. Be sure. Make sure. Today!
Whew!
It's been a long time since I last communicated with you all but we've been very busy these last few weeks. I'm still trying to comprehend all the events and spiritual aspects of the last few days. God has proven himself faithful again and again. As I sit here typing, I hear the sweet sound of SJ sitting on the stairs singing "Jesus Loves Me". Oh, how like Him to reveal himself in such an innocent yet profound way. I've seen God move in the past 2 weeks in ways that by the world's standards, would not have seemed miraculous. However, in the life of our family He performed miracle after miracle.
I'll never be able to completely tell you how God worked in the village of Mata de Cana last week. I'll tell you that He healed the sick physically thru the doctors, nurses, dentists and servants of God who ministered there. He also healed the spiritually oppressed thru the message of the gospel and by the power of the spoken Word of God....97 salvation decisions! God also captured the heart of one of his children. I will never be the same. It only takes a few seconds to realize once you land in the country that "we're not in Kansas anymore, Toto". I have grown to love the people of Nicaragua and especially the children. He has shown me that He cares for the poorest of the poor. He revealed to me the simpleness of life and that He can be found in the most meager of surroundings. He broke my heart for 6 little girls who will be making their way to a small home outside the capital city of Managua where they will be safe and where God can heal them from the most tragic of circumstances.
I was blessed to be part of a mission team that was, well, On Mission! In a confined space with more than 30 women, only 1 bathroom, and 2 showers...if you could call it a shower... one would think 7 days was WAY TOO long. I witnessed the power of the Holy Spirit mesh lives together and create long lasting relationships with complete strangers. No one but God!
I washed my hands in clorox about 15 times a day. I ate outside with the dogs. I climbed a BIG hill to see a gorgeous sunset. I saw a little boy smile as he watched his frightened sister get her tooth pulled...not knowing if he would be next. I saw a man who was oppressed with an evil spirit be transformed and ultimately "sat clothed and in his right mind". I sang "Baby Shark" with children who did not speak English and they LOVED it! I found out that God's people, no matter where they are, all love to sing!
Here are a few things God revealed to me this week: I learned that Spiritual Preparation is key to effective ministry. My prayer life was shallow...it's getting deeper! I don't need anything! I learned that your countenance can communicate God's love...SMILE....everyone needs one and it's a universal language! I learned to depend on my husband....enough info for you...he'll hear the rest about this. I learned that God still heals and changes men. Satan has no power that God doesn't give him. Jesus Loves Me! I learned that we are to adopt again.....we'll begin the paperwork soon!
We left the comforts of home to give a cup of cold water to those in need. I in turn received a deluge of blessings that have confirmed my hope in Christ and spurred me on to a deeper relationship with my Saviour. Thank you for reading. I encourage you to go. God commands us to go. When we obey, it's the greatest act of praise!\\
I'll never be able to completely tell you how God worked in the village of Mata de Cana last week. I'll tell you that He healed the sick physically thru the doctors, nurses, dentists and servants of God who ministered there. He also healed the spiritually oppressed thru the message of the gospel and by the power of the spoken Word of God....97 salvation decisions! God also captured the heart of one of his children. I will never be the same. It only takes a few seconds to realize once you land in the country that "we're not in Kansas anymore, Toto". I have grown to love the people of Nicaragua and especially the children. He has shown me that He cares for the poorest of the poor. He revealed to me the simpleness of life and that He can be found in the most meager of surroundings. He broke my heart for 6 little girls who will be making their way to a small home outside the capital city of Managua where they will be safe and where God can heal them from the most tragic of circumstances.
I was blessed to be part of a mission team that was, well, On Mission! In a confined space with more than 30 women, only 1 bathroom, and 2 showers...if you could call it a shower... one would think 7 days was WAY TOO long. I witnessed the power of the Holy Spirit mesh lives together and create long lasting relationships with complete strangers. No one but God!
I washed my hands in clorox about 15 times a day. I ate outside with the dogs. I climbed a BIG hill to see a gorgeous sunset. I saw a little boy smile as he watched his frightened sister get her tooth pulled...not knowing if he would be next. I saw a man who was oppressed with an evil spirit be transformed and ultimately "sat clothed and in his right mind". I sang "Baby Shark" with children who did not speak English and they LOVED it! I found out that God's people, no matter where they are, all love to sing!
Here are a few things God revealed to me this week: I learned that Spiritual Preparation is key to effective ministry. My prayer life was shallow...it's getting deeper! I don't need anything! I learned that your countenance can communicate God's love...SMILE....everyone needs one and it's a universal language! I learned to depend on my husband....enough info for you...he'll hear the rest about this. I learned that God still heals and changes men. Satan has no power that God doesn't give him. Jesus Loves Me! I learned that we are to adopt again.....we'll begin the paperwork soon!
We left the comforts of home to give a cup of cold water to those in need. I in turn received a deluge of blessings that have confirmed my hope in Christ and spurred me on to a deeper relationship with my Saviour. Thank you for reading. I encourage you to go. God commands us to go. When we obey, it's the greatest act of praise!\\
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