Helping Out Others. . .

As many of you know, I am a BIG BIG supporter of helping out the needy- especially the homeless population. :) I am helping with a project this year called HELP PORTRAIT. I would Like to encourage you to learn more about this project, and to help out by giving back to the community.

AND for giving back and spreading the word, I am going to provide you the chance to WIN A FREE FAMILY SESSION with Creative Blessings Photography- valid from January to March 2012. This includes a CD with 15-20 images.

Here is how you can win:
1. Drop off gently used clothes or toys at my house or at REIMAGE CHURCH by DECEMBER 10th.

2. Drop off toiletry items to my house by December 8, 2011.

Comment on the blog AFTER you drop off your item.

Other entries include:

Blog or Post on FACEBOOK about this event and leave a comment back on the blog with a link to your post.


Winner will be chosen by random drawing by December 12, 2011 and notified via email.

Please provide your email address on each posting!

THANKS for helping out!!!

Freedom: Do we really understand that in America?

Today we met with several local pastors and had the privilege to pray for them. This was in place of going to one of the children’s homes. Due to the weather, they had to cancel that activity. I honestly was heart broken, but deep down I know that we were meant to be with these pastors. We had breakfast and then met the pastors in our hotel dining room for coffee and discussions. However, it was quickly realized that we had to move to a safer place. The mayor of the town was also eating breakfast- they (along with several other tables) were listening to our conversation. This put them in grave danger. In this particular city (along with many more in India) if one wishes to change their religion they must go before the town and publically declare that no one has coerced them to changing religions. They must document their religious choice. It is my prayer that even though we moved the prayer meeting to another room, they do not experience harm from meeting with us. The pastors remained downstairs to eat and one at a time, they came up to one of our rooms- where we had gathered- to share their testimony.

For the first time, I honestly felt a bit on edge while in India. Am I concerned about my safety, yes; however, I am more concerned for those we met with. They have been beaten; locked up by villagers; stones thrown at them; motorcycles damaged (primary means of transportation); and gone through many other forms of persecution- all because they worship God.

So, tonight (or today depending on when I post this) take a minute to thank God that you have the freedom to worship the one true God. It is a freedom not to be taken lightly and one I fear we often do take for granted. Thank a soldier today as well.

Even though we arrived at 330am, there were people from CICM waiting to welcome us and to make certain we were taken care of as we traveled from the station to the mission. It is quite obvious that we are potential targets- Caucasians in general are not very common; however, a group with four white chicks probably stands out a little more. Even though our train was late (over 1 ½ hours late), someone was waiting at one of the stations to provide us with food- food that was prepared safely for us to eat.

We came through the gates (which have crosses on them) and upon our arrival to the CICM Children’s Home (different than the one we did not get to go to), there was a welcome banner with our team members’ names on it. Our rooms are very nice- I, again, have my own room and private bath. Being the lone single female on the trip has its advantages. 

On the train, San jay opened the door for me to watch the countryside go by It was so beautiful. I find myself wondering and wanting to shoot CLEAN IT UP. Trash is everywhere. What I must realize is that the people have lived like this a very long time and in a country without God they cannot see the same beauty in the world that I do. We went by rice field after field, the sun was starting to set, and all I can think about is how much God loves the people here. Yet, many of them do not know it.

Cows are a god here (just so you know I think our first meal in NY will involve BEEF- something even McDonald’s does not sell in India. They have chicken burgers.) yet they are just allowed to roam the streets with no care provided to them. They eat the garbage in the streets.

We are all gaining so much from this experience; we are not in one place very long, what difference does this make for the people? Our hosts told us that the people we meet are honored that we are not just sending money (although I believe people are meant to do that) but that we have taken the time out of our lives to come to visit them.

We have gained more than we have given, but we know that God had a reason for us to be here- He knew we were coming and He knows the needs of both the missionaries here as well as the people on our team.

We are preparing for a busy few days- touring CICM tomorrow along with a rest break in the afternoon. Then, we will be divided up to teach at the CICM schools and ultimately, will be able to see and help at the medical camp.

Church Dedication

I had said I would not pay for internet for another day; however, we may have limited access in the next town (will be there for 2 days), so I decided to splurge. I also felt I really wanted to attempt to share the emotions from today.

We were able to share in the dedication of the church that Christ’s Church built. It was amazing. We were treated like royalty- people who have very little gave us all so much. And more importantly, we were able to share in worship together. When we arrived at the church, we were greeted by hundreds of people lining the street, throwing flowers, and singing praises. Tim cut the ribbon to open the doors and then we were taken in to see the dedication sign (picture posted). WOW! I think we were all overcome with emotion.

I think Marty said it best when he gave the communion meditation- We have different languages, different cultures but the same God who extends us grace. (I paraphrased a bit, but that is the gist). . . Isn’t that how Heaven is going to be?

We are going to be sitting around at a big feast- man, woman, child, American, Indian, European, Asian. . .

Too often, we are caught up in our service- we get stuck on tradition (must be a certain way because it has always been done that way) and the bottom line is this: God came for us all. No matter the style of music we select, or the way we sing (and I take the JOYFUL NOISE to a whole other meaning!), we are all the body of Christ.

I am listening to Aaron Shust a lot during this trip. . . He sings a song, “My hope is in you.” It is time for Christians around the world to get real- and primarily I am speaking to Americans (myself included in that group). This world is temporary. There is nothing- NOTHING- we are taking with us. He sings in this song, “My hope is in you all the day long. I won’t be shaken by drought or storm. The peace that passes understanding is my song. My hope is in you Lord. . . You are my refuge!”

India is still a country of persecution for Christians. These men and women are often rejected by family members, lose jobs, and are harmed by choosing to be a Christian. How many times do we say on Sunday morning, oh let’s just sleep in? How many times do we fail to realize what a freedom we have to be able to attend a worship service? We complain about the AC not working or what color carpet we are going to put in the building. Yet, the people we worshiped with today have gone for years without even a building. God has grown their church to 1000 members/attendees; they have two services each Sunday. Now, that sounds like a large number (and it is), but keep in mind how many people actually live in India. There are many more that need to be reached here.

Today, as we traveled a bit more out of the city, we saw even more poverty. At lunch today (we had pizza hut as the teens on the trip wanted that and honestly, we all wanted something a bit more American), we were again approached by many little children (some only 6 or 7 and carrying baby siblings) begging for money. They will steal from you as well, so you are instructed to keep walking and hold tight to your belongings. It breaks your heart. But, I know that God is still faithful. He loves them the same as he loves me and he died for them. Who is going to tell them about Christ?

India needs more people to come. They need more preachers. They need financial support. CICM is making a huge impact, and praise God for their presence here. Yet, more is needed. I would encourage you to pray for our team, but also pray for those that are here every day- in the front lines leading people to Christ.

We leave at 4am for our next destination- we have a flight around 545am and will then have the day of rest prior to meeting with another church- one of the earliest CICM churches. Thank you for your prayers!

Who am I to Christ? Who am I in Christ?

So, I have not blogged in a really (ok, a REALLY!) long time. . . It is funny several people have mentioned to me if I have a blog. Honestly, after a friend’s death it seemed I didn’t wish to be as open through blogging. I rarely looked at blogs anymore.

Somehow this week, I feel I have a lot to say. 

I love how God can use various situations and circumstances to speak to me. He’s smart like that.  This week, I made a comment in a conversation that I was not a confident person- most people do not perceive that, but deep down I struggle with being confident. Ok, it is a struggle. I read Beth Moore’s book- loved it, but I still struggle with being bold and confident. A dear Christian lady overheard my comment and said, “I so do not see that about you!” I said, “Well it is me.” She asked me to take another look at what “He says about you.” Good advice.

I’ve been sick this week (ok moody too! ) and not felt well.

My confidence was hit kind of hard and then God started to remind me of Who I am in Him. I am nothing without Christ. But, how dare I take that for granted.

Today, two events started to rock my world a bit. . . . I bought traveler’s insurance for India. I have never bought traveler’s insurance for any mission trips, but for me, it seemed to be something I needed to do. I am not sure why and I will trust God for His leading on that. The part that sort of hit me hard was, when it said it offered a lump sum if I died. I am not afraid of death, but honesty, I have a few things on this earth I would like to do. Yet, we are reminded that every moment we are here is God’s choosing. His plans are not mine.

Then, someone told me that I was “pushy.” GULP, SWALLOW, BREATH. I will admit it, I like to fix things and sometimes my ultimate good intentions of trying to get someone to do something may come across as pushy. That is far from my intention. It is, instead, my desire to help people feel better, provide them with some relief, and pray for people. Guys, I believe in the power of prayer. Perhaps that is a blog for another night. . .

Yet, all of this started me thinking while I was waiting about 45 minutes for a patient today. WHO is Ivy IN Christ and WHO is Ivy TO Christ? What do I mean to Him? What do you mean to Him?

Some scriptures came to mind and I wanted to share that in my first new blog post! 

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
Psalm 139:13

See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.
Isaiah 49:16

You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of human beings.
1 Corinthians 7:22-24

After this, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward. ” Genesis 15:1

“And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14b

I love when God is speaking to me through people. . . Maybe being called pushy was the final straw to make me think more on who I am, maybe I come across that way and need to change my approach to people. Maybe this relationship can not be healed, but it goes to show that how one person interprets something may be totally different than how it was meant to be. I don’t know, but through this week, I relearned one thing: I am an amazing daughter of Christ, bought and paid for at the highest price! 

Prayer Mirror. . .

Many of you have heard me mention my "prayer mirror," before. Several people have asked me or commented on how I do that. I have been meaning for a while to post a picture of the wall. However, it was my desire to keep most of it anonymous. I felt that was only fair. Today, I updated the list. Please note, that this is a partial list. I have other people I pray for listed in my Journal. I also did not wish to post names, so I used descriptions of the situations. Some of you will automatically identify who you are in this. . . Others will not.

At the last women's meeting my table asked questions about how I did this and wanted more details. . . Honestly, I cannot take credit for the idea. . . It came from someone I dated a long time ago. The idea stuck and I love it. Simply put, you take a dry erase marker and write daily prayer requests, the list changes throughout the month or week at times. Every so often, I erase it and rewrite. Today was a rewrite day . . . and, already looking at the picture, I know of 4 additions . . . They will be added tonight.

I believe in the power of prayer!! Prayer is one of the steps of communicating with God. . . You also need to be in the word and worship DAILY, HOURLY, and Every Minute/Second of the day. . .

I pray for these people when I am in the shower, when I am brushing my teeth, or fixing my hair. . . I also have a daily prayer time with God for these folks along with others. . .

This is what works for me and I thought I would share. I encourage you to find time throughout your day to pray for folks.

Shelton. . . Learning How Blessed I Am. . .

I haven't blogged in a really long time. . . In part, because I have not been able to put all of my feelings down. I've also been busy with work (we went electronic on August 2 with our medical records and a fellow provider was on vacation almost the entire month), my mother, and other family matters.

This past week was one of the hardest weeks I have ever experienced. Many of you are aware of the fact Shelton has been terribly ill. We attempted to try everything and finally it was time to realize that there was nothing else available to help him. He had become incontinent for the most part, he had sores over his body, and he refused to eat/drink. After having my vet talk with numerous other vets/vet schools to confirm there were no other options, I made the decision to put him down. Just as a side note, I hate those words! I honestly hate how we say "putting an animal down." I don't know how else one would express this event, but it seems cruel when defined that way.

I hated having to make this decision. I cried over it for hours on end. Yet, I knew deep down it was the only option we had. He was suffering and I was being selfish by keeping him alive.

The picture above was taking at the Vet's office. I was so blessed to have Andrea Wood come that day to take pictures. It was important to me to have those. Maybe that is strange for some of you. However, for me, it was necessary. Shelton went to sleep peacefully. He is no longer suffering. I was able to be there and hold him through the process.

What I learned throughout the process was simply this, God cares and loves for me so much! His love was shown by so many people. Two weeks prior to this, my mom fell and broke her wrist- which required surgery. My grandmother was admitted to the hospital. My dad currently has a lot of issues with his knee and will need a knee replacement soon. We are still dealing with the unspoken issues, that I hope one day to share with my readers and church family. Until then, I continue to ask for prayers. We are seeing some light. . . although rather dim and still in the distant, we know it is there. We know GOD IS ABLE!

Between all of these events, It felt as times if my life had about 10 (ok, sometimes it was like 20!) glass balls in the air- and I was barely keeping them up.

During this time, my dear friend, Jill, passed away. I was unable to attend her memorial service due to my grandmother needing me for an appointment. I don't regret that as I know two things about Jill- she would understand that I was taking care of a need, and JILL is the real deal! Jill's faith and her perseverance through ALS taught me so much. We miss her, but we know that she is in heaven right now, celebrating with our King. . . I told one of my friends, Lindsey, that all day after I learned of her passing, I had an image of Jill holding Ayden, kissing his soft head. And, I believe she was holding him as he enjoyed a wet puppy kiss from Shelton. Jill was a true prayer warrior for my family. I loved the times I could spend one on one with her helping her with needs. Those precious hours with her served me so much more than I know I ever served Jill.

I am still asking for prayer for our family and for Ms. Molly. She has always been with Shelton and her previous owners had another dog. She cries so much when I leave. So far, I have only left for short times- even today when I was at the ECU game, I was only gone for a few hours, she was hoarse from whining/howling. I am on call next week, so she will have some longer days.

Yet, through the past few weeks, God showed me his love through the hands of many people. The men who came and stayed at my house late- very late- after we hit the wall of clay- to dig Shelton's grave. The people that let us borrow pick axes to break through. The men who came to bury him. People who made certain I left the house and also that I had time alone. People who moved patients at work so I could be off for both my mother's broken wrist, surgery, and for Shelton. People who sent me cards, emailed me, and posted on my Facebook page messages of encouragement. People that I know were praying- and continue to pray- for my family. People that have called me almost daily to make certain I was ok. People who grabbed me and gave me a hug. People who prayed with me. People who have asked- How are YOU DOING?

I am so blessed.

Thank you.

Unplugged

I haven't blogged in depth in a while. . .God has been working on me about several areas in my life.

The first, is that I need (and I truly want to) spend more one on one time with him. . .I long for each day to not be focused on my "TO DO" list, but to make certain I stop and say, "GOD what's your plan for the day?" And, to learn to be receptive to changing and following when God opens a new path.

One of the areas I feel God working on me is through my quiet time. I have a quiet time, but can easily find my mind distracted- selecting to do "good things," but maybe not necessarily the right thing. We all know the "right things." God gave us Ten commandments and an entire Bible to read to help us know! :) But, if we spend more time doing good things, but not GOD THINGS we are missing the boat. Each person, every encounter on a daily/hourly basis is important to the Kingdom of God. We are not merely placed in their path, we are placed there for a purpose.

My first order of business this month is to become "unplugged." I enjoy having the TV on almost all the time when I am home- to the point this is truly a HABIT. I walk in the door, do a few things, let the dogs out, and BOOM turn the TV on. How many hours of God time am I wasting doing that each day? So, I made the decision to become unplugged. There are two exceptions to this rule- I have several workout videos- yoga/cardio/etc. that I enjoy. That won't change. I also will be going on vacation in a few weeks, since I am going to be sharing a room with someone, the TV can be on during that time. . .Otherwise, I am cutting it off. It is time to take my time at home, my time "off" and refocus on God. Will I go back to TV after a month- probably, but I hope to not watch it as often (or as much). Most of the time, I have it on for noise, but it still can be a distraction.

I am also striving to spend more of an intimate time with God. I have a few classes I am going to take from an online program and am excited about that. I also am longing to finally get my budget in gear. . . I am a frugal person for the most part, but I am ready to become debt free. I am already enjoying taking part in Dave Ramsey's study and I know God is using that to shape me into being a better person . . If the debt is gone, I can't wait to see what uses God can show me for the extra money.

I told someone on Sunday, that I was tired of dealing with several things. . .that I wanted to see the world through my "rose colored glasses." To which he promptly replied what I already know- The world is not that way.

I've thought a lot about this conversation in the past few days- especially that afternoon as I drove an hour away. Maybe, Just maybe, my thought process is not totally off. Maybe what my mind longs for is to see the world how Jesus does. Even though he sees the hatred, the violence, the wrongful way we treat others. . . and he is angered by this. . . He also sees the struggles, the pain, the agony we endure. He sees our tears, hurts, fears. . .And, in each person He gives us the GRACE to come back to him after we mess up. Maybe my rose colored glasses need to be changed to focus more on the good each person has to offer, to trust people (which is something I struggle with).

I love where I am at in my life, but know that God can move me to an even closer place with HIM.

Loving Some Pasta!

Again, I am WAY behind at updating. . .I plan to do better!!

So, I posted a mobile picture of this on FB, and had a request for the ingredients. . . I also took pictures with my Cannon. . .

Here is my attempt as I did not measure anything for this, but it is really easy!! The veggies came from my garden!!

2 Bell Peppers, cut into pieces
7 Tomatoes, cut into pieces
Fresh Basil
Fresh Oregano
Some EVOO
Approx. 1/4 cup of chicken broth

Bring the above to a boil, let simmer.

Cook Whole Wheat Pasta while the above is simmering. . .

ENJOY!

A great Reminder. . .

I saw this on FB this morning, I had actually seen it before. . . BUT, today, I needed a reminder of it! We all need a reminder of what love can do!

Saving some money. . .Eatin' at home!

I've been quite busy with growing fresh produce as well as freezing several items. I love the local farmer's market, but have found that the Briley farm is the best! :) I have been twice to the farm as well as their stand and plan to go back. . .Here is my freezer. . . with some of the items!

Yard Sale Finds. . .

Saturday, I went yard sell shopping with a friend and her little girl. . .It was fun. I had a plan of what I wanted to try to find. .. Well, as you might expect, sometimes you don't find what you are looking for. . .instead you find a few other treasures. . .

One of the items I purchased, a Christmas star, is packed away. I forgot to take a picture of it. Oh well.

The Dollhouse needs a lot of work, and elbow grease BUT the base is still very stable! : )The picture was only $0.25!! It's already hanging in the bathroom after cleaning it a bit. The doll house was only $5.00!!

A Sacred Sorrow. . . by Michael Card.

Week 1: We met and answered questions together. . . I am not going to post those here. However, I think for the following weeks I will answer one or two of the questions on my blog. Chris Dunn is leading this study at WFWB church. I, unfortunately, had to miss the second and third week. I plan to be back for week four, and I can't wait! :)


Week 2:

3. In your mind, is it possible for God to love someone through hesed and allow or cause trials or sickness to happen because of that love? Yes. Whatever trials we endure are always for his plan- which we may not understand here on this earth. God wants to change our hearts and minds in order for our lives to become more "Christ-like." It is through those trials we grow in our walk, we are able to help others, and we ultimately, become closer to God.

Week 3:

1. Think back on a recent time in your life when you might have lamented but did not. What do you think held you back from being brutally honest before God? I recently struggled with anger at God for a current situation. I had very mixed emotions about opening up those feelings to him. Funny, isn't it, when we know He already knows those feelings? Finally, I was able to let this all out to God- pouring out my heart to him. What a relief! I think I felt that it was not "acceptable" for me to show my anger towards God and this injustice. Yet, I now know this is a form of worship. My God longs to allow us to sit down and talk it out- he cares about all the details.

Brandon Heath. . .

Workin' Around the House. . .

So I haven't blogged in a long time. . . Here is the reason why: Check out a few of the household projects I've been working on. . .more pictures to come soon!

Here are the before pictures. . .




Here are the after pictures. . .

Together for the Gospel- ONE TICKET NEEDED!!

I have a great friend, Chris D., who is in need of a ticket for this event- Together for the Gospel. He truly loves the Lord! I know his attendance will impact not only other conference attendees, but those he interacts with upon his return to NC. Chris has greatly impacted my walk of faith and I am blessed to call him along with his girlfriend, Tanya, friends.

So, fellow bloggers. . .

1. Please pray that if it is the Lord's will, this will be granted. My God is able. . . His word says,

"Delight yourself in the LORD
and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4


2. Please respond ASAP if you have a ticket, know of a possible avenue in which he can attend, or if you have any other advice. . .

God Bless!!

A Blessing. . .

I've been wanting a nice mixer for a LONG LONG time. . .But, I haven't felt I should spend the money. My grandmother gave me her mixer when I was at my parent's home in January. What a nice treat!! I am so blessed.

Is God Steering Your Car?

I was driving today to another town for an appointment. . .I passed by a church and on the sign it said,

"God needs to be your steering wheel and not your spare tire."

Kind of gets me thinking. . . How often do I let God actually steer? How often do I opt to keep God in the trunk for when I feel I need Him? How often is God in the back of the car, while I am taking off driving on my own adventure? Certainly got my mind thinking. I do some of my best thinking while traveling and often know God is going to use this time to speak to my heart. He never fails to show up as long as I do!

Part of the reading I have completed includes Psalm 40:1-8.

1 I waited patiently for the LORD;
he turned to me and heard my cry.
2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.

3 He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear
and put their trust in the LORD.

4 Blessed is the man
who makes the LORD his trust,
who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.

5 Many, O LORD my God,
are the wonders you have done.
The things you planned for us
no one can recount to you;
were I to speak and tell of them,
they would be too many to declare.

6 Sacrifice and offering you did not desire,
but my ears you have pierced;
burnt offerings and sin offerings
you did not require.

7 Then I said, "Here I am, I have come—
it is written about me in the scroll.

8 I desire to do your will, O my God;
your law is within my heart."


"Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust." WOW! Sort of says it all. . . He needs to be driving our cars.

"Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare." This verse probably is shouting my name the loudest today. I am so blessed daily by the Lord. His mercy, his grace, his forgiving, caring way. . . He knows each of my daily steps and I am so glad he does! Each encounter is from the Lord. Have you really stopped to think about it? Each person you see on a daily basis was planned to be in your path for that day, that minute, that second. How often do I jump to a conclusion, think the worst thought, or become frustrated. Yesterday, during my lunch break, I was running some errands. On my normal daily route, one traveled many times a week, I managed to avoid a very serious accident. One Second sooner, the situation could have been very different and the potential outcome was certainly scary. I am still quite shaken by the encounter.

Yet, I am also displeased at my chosen response to the other driver (who would have been at fault). I immediately slammed on breaks and swerved to miss a car that pulled out in front of me. I blew the horn and shook my fist at this older gentleman. In retrospect, he probably did not see me (or he would have not pulled out! :) Yet, I still chose to be upset. I chose to be angry with him . . . verses realizing immediately, he did not mean to do this. I pulled into the closest parking lot after the event. I was shaking . . . I stopped to pray and ask God to bless the other driver and help him to arrive safely. I praised God for protecting me. I also praised God that I was running a few minutes late as a coworker stopped to ask me a question prior to leaving the office. God's timing is always perfect! Now, if I had not avoided the accident, would I have also praised God? I hope so.

"I desire to do your will". . . Let's see, if I truly desire to do his will, God does not need to be the spare tire? I'd better make sure I move over and make sure He's driving all the time!

Walking for a Friend!!

Hi everyone! Some of you may know Jill and some may not. She is a wonderful woman who is dying of ALS. This may be her last event to participate in. I would like to support her in this walk on March 27 and I would like you to join me by visiting www.catfishchapter.org and clicking on the Down East Walk and registering to raise $210.00 as a personal goal. The team is Jill's Caring Angel's and Lori Guin is the team captain.

Please help anyway possible this may include donating money yourself or having others donate to sponsor you!

Thank you for anything that you can do!!!!!!!! Also if you would like to support me as a walker then go to the website and look for my name under the donation section.

Jill is an amazing lady whose faith shines through in every experience! Please take some time to read her blog, I know your life will be touched.

Please join us to walk either at the event or as a virtual walker!! :o) Children are welcome at this event!! We are working to have team shirts with a special design for Jill!! We need to make this a HUGE year for her!!

SNOW 2010!!

Christ's Church Cardboard Testimony. . .

Our church recently celebrated our 10 year anniversary. . .WOW! I have pictures that I need to post, but have not had the time to do so. . . I hope to do that soon!