Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Time for a change...on my blog!

Well I'm going on 3 years with this blog and my life in Mexico. Every year I write about what I'm doing and post lots of pictures about my life, but I haven't put a whole lot about what God is doing. I have been challenged lately to write more about my spiritual life. I was pondering why I haven't and at first I was afraid of looking like I am too spiritual. I was taught all my life to not think too highly of myself and I'm trying to break out of some of those thinking patterns. Maybe it was pride and wondering if what I have to say will be written well or make sense. But no matter what was then...God has been speaking to me that I need to do more. I want more opportunities to share about what he's doing in my life - my testimony is right now!
I am starting a study on Daniel and I am very excited. Daniel set himself apart from the rest of the men in Babylon and didn't give in to the influences of the world. I can't wait to learn!

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

One of the highlights of my life is my niece, Mia! I was there the day she was born and we have had so many fun memories together. Until I moved to Mexico, I lived nearby. But she is always in my heart and my prayers. I am so proud of the girl she is. She is a friend to everyone and has a kind and considerate spirit. Being away from her is the hardest thing about being in Mexico. I love you Mia!!!!




A dear friend, Joanna Martino Beasley, planned a fundraiser for me on New Year's Eve. It was a wonderful time of being with friends, sharing my life, listening to music, and playing games. I spoke about the blessings of 2009 in Back2Back:
3 college grads from our Hope Program, 4 high school grads, spiritual growth of teens, each childrens' home had a new room or new project finished, a new church at Casa Hogar Douglas, and many financial blessings, protection
Also, the blessings of 2009 in my personal life: my support, new experiences, trip to Mexico City, the school, quality time with teens, improvements in Spanish, visitors, health, safety,and protection
I am thankful for the prayers of my supporters - I can feel them just when I need them.



Evelyn spoke about how Back2Back has changed her life





Praise the Lord I had a wonderful visit to the US at Christmas! I was blessed to be able to take 2 of the girls in the teen program, and ones that I have gotten close to over the years. Evelyn and Jazmin were able to get a Visa for the States and traveled with me there and back. They spent a week with me and a week with the Merrills, who are like parents to them. They got to see snow and we tried to give them many new experiences. I feel like we were able to deepen our relationship and it was great to show them life in a different culture!

at the airport!

playing "Rock Band"

making a snow man with my niece, Mia



In Chicago with Heather!!