February 5, 2012
A special note to ladies at Bethel Baptist, IL:
Your cards and notes are very much appreciated! Thank you for your prayers and words of encouragement!
I'm personally just a little "wired" tonight after a great day at church! We actually had 18 fewer people today than last week-- but saw some great victories! I had a faithful lady offer to help with Sunday School, and then tonight we had a visitor that is really a miracle!
Thank you for your faithfulness to the ministry there and taking the time to check in on us. We believe pray IS the greatest force on earth, therefore you are a valid part of the ministry here. This is truly a spiritually dark country, but the Lord is doing marvelous things.
The children are doing well and really don't know what "adjusting" is. I did say something about a drinking fountain the other day to which Logan (6 yr) replied, "What is a drinking fountain?" I think the adjustments will be in a few years when we return to the states! Without a yard, we try to get out on hikes and walks. There are definitely days that I feel like the walls are crawling. I''m sure you all feel the same way in the winter months! We are getting excited about the longer days it is almost light until 5:00--wahoo!
Well, I babbled much to long. Enjoy the rest of your ladies' meeting!
Katie
January 27, 2012
Just had to share what I just read! (Please pardon any typos, it is slightly after my bed time-- 11:10)
Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness. Col. 1:11
I think this verse sums up what most moms, wives, teachers, etc need on an hourly basis! Wow, I sure do need strength, patience, and longsuffering! This verse was part of Paul's prayer for the believers at Colossae. I'm excited to reclaim this verse and realize that I can have ALL strength from HIS GLORIOUS POWER. Also, so often I think I fall into a trap of thinking I'm being patient while gritting my teeth-- but the verse ends by saying -- with joyfullness! As we know, one of the fruits of the spirit is joy! So, I can conclude that if my outward look of patience and longsuffering is not filled with inner joy, I have acted in my own strength (the flesh) and not truly relied on His strength and walked in the Spirit.
I'm sure this can be said much better and simpler, for I fear I have not conveyed what the Lord is doing in my heart. May this be an encouragement and a prayer for your own lives as well as others!
Katie
January 8, 2012
Come on over-- the house is clean and I finally have found a spot for all of those extra things we seem to accumulate over the holidays!!
The Lord blessed with a great Sunday School hour this morning! We've needed a little change of pace, and with some old RBP material, and a good object lesson, we had a blast! The children are doing a fabulous job learning their books of the Bible. We are somewhat starting from the basics right now and the older ones are enjoying the facts about the Bible such as 40 authors, 66 books, written over 1600 years, etc!!!
Our object lesson taught us that sin makes life hard. I had a child walk a straight line and then had them do it again and again as I added weight to their arms as they held them out straight. It got harder and eventually impossible to stay on the line. I think they did understand that obeying is easy--we are the ones that make it hard.
On the home front-- we had a good week back to school. It ended with some disruption as Parker was sick on Friday. (If anyone knows what would cause a child to get sick for about 5-6 hours every three months, please let me know!) I had forgotten he was "about due" since he even had the stomach flu a few weeks ago. It is a very strange illness. But, anyone that know Parker-- nothing keeps him down for long!
Nelson reminds me daily that he is approaching the age of two!! Thankfully he has gotten more content to just go and play, but also knows what he wants and when he wants it!!
Kay Lee, Benson, and Logan had a hard time getting back into school work, but I think this next week will be easier. Please pray as they get back at their piano practice, typing, and book reports this week. (Don't worry, Logan isn't doing a book report yet!)
We are looking forward to some visitors this weekend. I think I have had more visitors since moving here than I did in America!! I am absolutely thrilled to have my children exposed to wonderful Christians!
May the Lord bless and strengthen you as you serve Him in 2012.
Katie
December 25, 2011
Well, I guess I'm just jumping from one holiday to the next--Merry Christmas everyone! It is currently 2:15 in the morning and my mind is going a mile a minute! I'm not sure that I'll be making it to church in a few hours since I am up with sick Nelson.
I need to backtrack all the way to December 9th.... the Lord blessed us with a wonderful evening when 4 ladies and one girl joined me here at the house for my Christmas party! I was able to share "Memories from the Nativity" by focusing on fullfilled prophecy of Scripture. I can't wait for my neighborhood party next year! I encourage you all to plan now to have a party with your neighbor ladies! I've recently thought that I'm glad I didn't wait until... I had a bigger or cleaner house, a more convenient time, more money, etc..... I definitely would have missed a blessing.
Illness has seemed to be a part of our lifestyle lately! It continued during my sisters stay, but didn't slow us down too much!! The Lord certainly poured out His grace on us as we really did have wonderful time despite sickness!
The children had wonderful cousin time and made memories that I believe will last a life time. I am truly blessed to have a supportive Christian family.
Our Sunday School and Kid's Club continues to go well. (It was a blessing to have my sisters extra hands and teaching for 2 weeks!) We continue to pray for helpers! One lady in the church is now riding with me in the van as I take some children home. This is definitely a comfort in rough neighborhoods after dark! I am getting ready to start a new format to verse memorization and hope it will make things simpler. I'm also continuing to put together a 10 week powerpoint presentation about the armor of God. I was hoping to start teaching it the first of the year, but perhaps February is a better goal.
Thank you for praying for us. I am truly overwhelmed with so many people's generosity in gifts, cards, and short notes this holdiay season. I feel I cannot adequately express my gratitude.
Talk to you next year!
Katie
November 23, 2011
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
We are delaying our Thanksgiving dinner until Friday, so it seems to be taking forever to get here! I'm very excited to be hosting a few missionary friends along with Kirk and Carrie! Tonight I was able to grab those last few ingredients that I needed-- and thankfully I was able to find creamed corn-- hooray! Also in my planning I found out that molasses is called treacle. Thankfullly a friend told me, or I would probably still be at the store trying to find molasses.
We have our regular church service scheduled for Thursday evening so we are going to do something special even though it isn't Thanksgiving here. After church I have a pumkin pie, pumpkin bread, cookies with candy corn, and pop corn to share! (Kay Lee learned in some extra reading that popcorn was probably part of the pilgrim's feast!)
Then, next on the agenda is the exciting fact that my sister and her husband and 4 children will be arriving next week to spend a fortnight with us! (Fortnight is a British term meaning 2 weeks time) The kids are ecstatic as you can imagine about playing with their cousins!
I had better get back to work.. I have a few more crafts to prep for church tomorrow night!
Enjoy your holidays!
Katie
November 2, 2011
I thought for November I would list reasons why I love Scotland!
1. Beautiful scenery in every direction
2. Castles
3. Lovely accents!
4. Cheap bread, pasta, and pastries!
5. Loads of Reformation history.
6. Castles
7. Plenty of parent/child parking spaces
8. Hiking trails, and "no trespassing" does not exist
9. Sheep, sheep, and more sheep (lambs in the spring!)
10. Castles (have I mentioned that yet?)
11. Walks on the North Sea
12. Hairy cows
13. Shops within walking distance
Hope you all enjoy getting ready for Thanksgiving. I recently read that the early Thanksgiving days were spent in prayer. It wasn't until 1621 that they celebrated the harvest with Wampanoag Indians. What a rich history we have!
Katie
October 24, 2011
Hello friends!
Visitors, visitors, visitors-- it has been great to be blessed with visitors the last few weeks!
It has been an absolute joy to have two new girls join us for kids club recently. They are just like sponges and hang on every word that is said. As I dropped off little Ellie Thursday evening, she said, " Mrs. Shore, I know how to talk to God!" I'm not exactly sure what she was referring to, but I was glad she left knowing that God was a real person who would listen to us! Please continue to pray as the group grows. Also, more "problems" can arise as the children get to know one another better and aren't as shy!!
Our Finland visitors last Sunday were such a blessing. They had a passion to be in church despite being on holiday and not knowing the language completely! The children sat great in Sunday School, and a I trust perhaps they learned something through the pictures!
Since the children were out of school last week I was able to have Dione over for the day. We did crafts, watched a missionary DVD, made personal pizzas, went to the park, and baked cookies for her to take home. It was a fun day and I'm so glad she could be with our family outside the business of Sundays.
We had our first "slumber party" at Kirk and Carrie's house! Kirk came to study in Edinburgh so we took him home after the service Thursday, spent the night, and toured on Friday. It was a blessing to get away for a night and be with them! We are still praying for jobs for them.
I want to say a special thank you to many of you who prayed for sweet little Adalin the past 3 1/2 years. It has been a long jouney for the family, please pray for them as they adjust and heal in the days ahead.
Enjoy the lovely Autum colors and weather!
Katie
October 9, 2011
Have you ever gotten overwhelmed with the "crumbs" of life? It seems that the majority of the time the "crumbs" are what get me discouraged even more than significant things such as ER trips, financial crisis, sickness, etc...
I literally deal with crumbs daily-- trust me-- 5 children eating toast for breakfast creates a lot of crumbs!! I should count the number of times I say "eat over your plate!" (Go ahead and put your sweet voice away and read that again with a little emphasis!) Obviously, the floor must be swept before starting school. Shortly thereafter, I find myself sweeping my hand over the table to spare the floor of the "eraser crumbs" produced by my kindergarten student that must have each letter touching all the correct lines or else the entire row of letter/numbers gets erased. Also, on several occasions #5 plans the timing just right to grab my arm while I'm transferring that scoop of laundry detergent to the dispenser-- causing you know what-- laundry detergent "crumbs" sprinkled on the floor. On several occasions lately, the salt and pepper have gotten left on the table--- this is BAD, BAD, BAD when you have an 18 month old that has discovered climbing up to the table. It is a good thing that salt and pepper are cheap! Other things that I have found to be much like crumbs are: pencil shavings, tiny legos, little socks (mismatched of course), razor shavings in the sink, etc.... I'm sure you have a few you could add to my list.
So, the decision is mine. I can murmur and focus on the crumbs. Or, I can accept them and focus on the bigger picture! If I remember correctly, the woman that had great faith, begged for even a crumb of mercy, the beggar ate from the crumbs that fell from the rich man's table, and even the fragments where gathered after the feeding of the five thousand. So, perhaps the crumbs are worth more than they appear. Maybe they are a tool to make me a humble servant to God and my family.
Well, just from reading this post, I think you know how you can pray for me!
Katie
September 26, 2011
I hope everyone is enjoying their Autumn weather and festivities! I think most missionaries would admit they miss the beautiful autumn colors of the US! Kay Lee is excited about the one tree that is changing at the community centre.
We don't have a large apple orchard, but our park has one apple tree, and pretty much first come first serve. Unfortunately I didn't get a picture of my wonderful husband climbing to the top to get me some apples! So, we have enjoyed applesauce and apple bread!
We are into a pretty good school schedule. Tomorrow will be day 17 of school and we will actually be on lesson 17! Success--so far!! Logan is doing well and we are focusing on getting all of the sounds together to form words. Right now every word sound like c-u-u-u-u -T. We just finished a chapter in Science about fossills. I'm so thankful my children can learn a biblical perspective, Especially after reading this artilcle.
I was able to give a lady a tract at the park in Edinburgh tonight. She seemed receptive and said that she went to church last week with her cousin because he invited her. She had no idea what church it was. She continue to read the tract as I moved on with the children. I have several cashiers that I talk with on a regular basis as well-- "little by little!"
I know most people (myself included) complain about Christmas stuff being out already. However, I must admit the cooler weather and shorter days does get me ready for Christmas! I'm ready to plan my ladies neighborhood Christmas party, Carol sing.... etc. I'll try not to mention anything else about it until December :)
Adalin Update
To help relieve pain and other problems, Adalin underwent surgery on Saturday. Please specifically pray for swelling, pressure, and pain to be relieved. Tumors are reaking havoc. Adalin will celebrate her 9th birthday on October 1st. Please pray that they have a wonderful family day. Any notes that you would like to send, I would gladly forward. Before clicking to close this page, would you please pray for dear little Adalin?
Thank you,
Katie
ps. For anyone in the Lansing, MI area-- you might see Adalin's picture on a Kourageous Kid's bill board!!
September 8, 2011
"Count your blessings, name them one by one...." So, where do I begin when the blessings list seems endless??
We enjoyed an incredible fort night ( a term here meaning two weeks time) with Benjamin's parents and Aunt Bonnie. We did SO much we can hardly remember what we did!
First, they were a blessing to us in ministry. They were a huge help with the pastor and wives fellowship that we hosted with 40 people in attendance. Their help with preaching and teaching was refreshing. What a blessing to have so many pianists available as well!
Family time is always priceless. The children enjoyed being their tour guides to several castles. They were also able to paint their own pottery with grandma and grandpa. This has been a tradition to paint and then open it for Christmas!
My brother Kirk and his wife Carrie's being here has been a blessing as well. Kirk is enrolled in a PhD program at the University of Dundee. So, Lord willing we will have them just 1 1/2 hours away for the next three years! Wow-- how often does that happen for a missionary?? They will be leaving us Monday to move ino their flat.
So, the question is: "What am I going to do at home and church when the ratio of children to adults is back to normal?? I feel as though I have been on a bit of holiday in that area!
I am very excited about my plans for our kids club on Thursday nights! I've just downloaded a missionary story from Bible Visuals International. They have several stories on powerpoint that you can just download! The children loved it tonight! No more juggling children and the story book at the same time! My husband has also ordered a wireless pointer, so I don't have to stand by the computer and click! Benjamin's mom also left me with many children's songs that she has put on power point with pictures. The children are enjoying singing with them.
Thank you for praying for our services. The children that are attending are doing MUCH better and I believe they are growing as well. Nelson continues to be a handful. We have a 23 month old right now that sits through the ENTIRE lesson better than the older children, so I am hoping that Nelson takes lessons from him!
One more thing-- we started school on Monday and all is going well. We've hit a few bumps, but that helps us keep our eyes on the Lord!
Katie
August 16, 2011
Well, there is nothing quite like feeling that you are a year behind! When I just began this post I realized that I had been writing "2010" since April-- ha! I hope nobody has checked lately and thought-- "wow she hasn't updated for over a year!! So, I just scrolled down and changed the dates. Please feel free to e-mail me and correct me. I hate to admit this, but the other morning I made myself a salad, it wasn't until I almost poured milk over it that I realized I meant to pour myself a bowl of cereal! I guess that is what 5 children can do to you!
Anyway, on a more serious note, I can't believe it has been 2 weeks since our HBT (VBS)! We had a great week with a small number of children that loved being there and were fantastic participants and listeners! One of my biggest encouragements was my own children who loved the week even though it was their mom and dad singing the same songs, playing games, and teaching Bible stories! I think Parker said every morning when we were getting ready to leave, "We get to go again today?!"
We are gearing up for Grandpa and Grandma Shore's visit along with Aunt Bonnie (Benjamin's Aunt)! They will arrive this Friday and leave on Sept 3, Kay Lee's birthday! We are using it as our vacation so we'll be doing some exciting things that we normally wouldn't. I'm sure I'll have plenty of pictures to share.
On Aug 25, we will be hosting a preacher's fellowship at the Community Centre. I am planning a taco bar for lunch. It looks like there will be 36 of us-- a time of great Christian fellowship for sure! My children are especially excited because we bought a pinata for the occasion.
Thank you to all who have especially prayed for my Sunday school class. This past Sunday went very smoothly for a group of 12 children ranging in age from 1-9 years old! My management technique for the one year old's is -- give them more cheerios!! I should do a commercial for Cheerios! I also changed the schedule up a bit. I gave the little ones a picture to color and started the older ones with questions that they found the answer to right in the Bible. They enjoyed it, and then could help fill in the facts as I told the Bible story! I am doing a series of lessons on "Sin and Consequences." As we live in a society that has little consuquences, I believe they will learn Biblically that God does not and cannot tolerate sin. (Thanks to my friend Lea for the idea!)
I know many of you are already into your school books. I plan to start Sept 5th, although my husband is doubting that right after having company.
Thank you for praying for us. I dislike even mentioning physical problems when I know so many who have critical illnesses. However, I had a rough week last week and struggled with vertigo problems. As we headed into the weekend I claimed 2Co 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. And look what happened-- we had a great day at church on Sunday!
TTFN!
Katie
July 22, 2011
David reminds me in II Samuel and Psalms, "As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him." I am dwelling on these verses as the news of cancers and marital/family troubles flood my e-mail, and phone calls. My desire is not to respond with an immediate "what?" For many of us, it is easy to say that God is perfect. But can we say with David that His WAY is perfect? I won't even try to recap David's life in this post, however the fact that he fled for his life, sinned, lost a young child, had a child rebel, and still was able to say "As for God, his way is perfect...." shows me there is a lot I need to learn. He also says, "the word of the Lord is tried" There are tests that come to the word of God in our lives. And the Word of God will not fail us. I have a choice: I can either turn to friends (and praise God for friends, I wonder what would have happened to David without Nathan), or social networking, or worldy counsel, OR I can turn to God's Word. I cannot tell you how much God's Word has refreshed my mind and heart when I CHOOSE to focus on it rather than other vain comforts.
Thanks for "listening" This was for me, I wanted to write and update, but the Lord wanted me to focus on His Word and not life in general.
I hope you enjoy the new pictures.
Katie Shore
July 9, 2011
Well, the oven cleaner has just been sprayed for the 2nd time before I give it another scrubbing, so I thought I’d sit down and “talk” with you all. I actually just got done reading the Happening Now page that my husband is so good at updating! I know life is crazy when I have to check my own website to remind myself of what my husband was trying to tell me while I was fixing 5 children’s plates, reminding everyone to talk quietly (for the 100th time), sticking something in Nelson’s mouth to suffice him, and not burn whatever I’m making! So—the website comes in VERY handy J He also reminds me to read over the sermons that I missed on Sundays.
God’s endless resources have been very evident to us recently in so many different ways. I’m not the world’s best writer and it is hard to put it into words so I thought I would just list things for you:
- Federal income tax return looks like it will cover state taxes and Scotland taxes that we owe.
- Another missionary has done some sorting and we were given some books among which is a HUGE atlas that I need for our geography next year!
- A few weeks ago, grocery vouchers came at just the right time to get exactly what I needed but couldn’t get without going over my grocery budget!
- A guitar for Benson’s birthday gift from gumtree.com (kinda like Craig’s list). I found it just after it was listed, and it was only a few miles from us!
- Just today I was able to us a 4.00 off voucher at a grocery store and then I received a voucher for 10p of per liter of fuel! (Benjamin filled up and saved over 6 pounds—over $9.00!)
- We have some visitors coming and our Costco had their boxes of popcorn for half price this week! (32 bags of popcorn for 5 pounds!)
- We have been deciding what to do for our Holiday Bible Time. Once again a friend that was doing the sorting gave us a whole curriculum including the worksheets, prizes, doorhangers, etc!
- I sold my first item on gumtree.com! (A baby bouncer-always sad to get rid of a baby item!)
- Parker has been wearing a vest to church for about the last year and it has been getting harder to fit his head through J I found a shirt and matching vest at the charity shop for 2 pounds (about $3.00)
- We were recently burdened to help another missionary with some O&P expense. We just looked at our financial statement and we were given a special one time gift that is exactly double of what we gave. (Coincidence? I don’t think so)
Well, I guess I’ll end there—but I’m sure there are more. We don’t share personal financial info very often, but I believe all of you will glory in God’s faithfulness with this information!
June 12, 2011
I probably say this way to often, but, "wow-- where does the time go?" My husband is much quicker on the draw with updating than I am. Since I'm the slow one, he steals my pictures! (At least he asks permission to steal them)
We only have 4 days of school left. Schools here will go until the end of June, but we will be done on the 16th--just in time to celebrate our anniversary, Father's Day, and Benson's birthday. Every year I am amazed at how all of our special days are lumped together!
An overview of our summer includes missionary friends coming for a week in July, Holiday Bible Time, and relatives coming in August!
While our attendance has been down for services, I think I still burn an outrageous amount of calories on Sundays! (No complaints there!) Nelson is on the move, so, it seems like I'm chasing him after each chair that I get set up! Please pray that my new Sunday School idea works-- I took his little high chair today (big smile!) He didn't really like the stroller and it has way too many buckles to get him in and out quickly! Holding him while teaching just proves to be disastrous! One quick little hand can knock a whole flannel graph to the floor sending all the little pieces flying. And then.... what little listener can stay in their seat when all of these neat pieces are now at their disposal? So, I trust the high chair will work. I've also thought about not feeding him breakfast-- then he'll be hungry and eat the whole SS hour. (Just joking--although that did just give me an idea).
The children are doing well and I think everyone is finally well! Logan just had his ear checked. It is still a bit red, but seems to be healing. Benson had an episode last week with a migraine which didn't end well--but that was just a one nighter! Praise the Lord Nelson is sleeping through the night! He may wake up and cry every few nights, but we just cover him back up and he falls right back to sleep!
I may have shared this before, but one of my main prayer requests with homeschooling is that my children would be good readers! Kay Lee struggled in kindergarten and therefore I prayed more. The Lord has answered and she is an avid reader! I'm praying it stays that way. She is following the Bible reading that Benjamin puts in the church bulletin. She has also devoured the children's biographies that I brought with me and then she started one about Hudson Taylor from Benjamin's library. I often hear first thing in the morning about what she read before dozing off the night before! I tust that the boys will love to read as well. I'm also very excited about some books that I am getting by Lamp Lighter Publishers--good stuff!
I know this has gotten long, but before I close, I need to ask once again that you pray for Adalin. As of last week, they were going to start chemo again. We are still praying for healing, while also praying for spiritual and emotional needs. Thank you for taking this need to the Lord.
Hope you are enjoying the heat of summer, if you need to cool off--come here! Katie
May 24, 2011
First, thank you to many of you who have been praying for our many illnesses! Logan seems to be doing better and we are praying that this antibiotic works for her ear infection. Benson was a good soldier today has he had his blood drawn. We don't expect to find anything in particular with the blood tests, we are just checking since he seems to have a reaccuring illness every few weeks.
Theophila (the university student from Singapore that attends our church) will be flying home on Monday. We will definitely miss her and the laughs that she brings to our home on Sundays! Some flights are being cancelled due to the ash cloud that is once again hovering over the UK. She would appreciate your prayers that she could get home in a timely manner! She is also recovering from an "accident" that happened while a fellow podiatry student was practicing on her foot. We are praying that no infection sets in and that is heals well.
We plan to be done with school in just less than a month. Kay Lee has finished her reading, but we are going strong in the remainder of the subjects! I am also realizing how fast next year is approaching and getting my school book order in progress!
Nelson has been sleeping better-- yeah for the whole family! One of my main prayer requests would be for him on Sundays. It is proving harder and harder to teach Sunday School with a toddler! He is not content to be in the sling anymore and fights to get down when I am holding him. It would be great if he played in one spot, but his friendliness just makes him want to walk around to all of the children and say "hi!" I need patience, as it is very easy to start acting out of frustration!
Our children are really enjoying the Thursday night Kid's Club, but we are praying for other children to come!
Enjoy your summer!
Katie
May 7, 2011
Hello! I am now officially another year older. Birthdays seem to be getting better with age! I was spoiled with a day out with my husband and showered with many many cards from you in the States! Thank you so much! I got several coffee mugs from the children-- as I opened a third, I looked at Benjamin with a smile and he just shrugged his shoulders and said, "We were in the mug isle!" So, I have no excuses for not offering the traditional cup of tea!
After some time away and then spring break, we are officially back into hard core studies with the children. Kay Lee and Benson will start memorizing their States and capitals this next week. Many of you are winding down your school year, but we plan to go until the end of June.
We just started up our Thursday night kids club. We are praying children will come next week. Even all of mine didn't attend this past week! (A big thank you to Lea Devers who watched our sick Logan and kept Nelson as well!) Our children are very excited about it and hoping other children will come. When we started Thursday with singing, Benson saw some children entering and shouted, "here they come!" He was a little disappointed when we realized they were attending something else at the community centre.
Sundays continue to go well, Nelsons age is bringing new "obstacles." I'll be honest and say that I am not quite sure how to teach and keep him occupied.
Thank you for your prayers for us, we are thrilled beyond all measure about what the Lord is doing here!
Katie
These are the verse cards that the children will be learning.
April 19, 2011
It is good to be back home! The time away did remind us of deputation and made us miss it a little bit!
Praise the Lord after many weeks of illness, the children were healthy during the time away. Parker only got car sick once. It was at the beginning of our journey and there was a pull-off just moments after! Near the end of our journey he held his bucket and wasn't feeling well. He then told us, "I'm just going to keep my mouth shut." We laughed and thought that was a good plan for other times as well!
We had another answer to prayer on Sunday. We walked to a Chinese restaurant for lunch. When we arrived back at the hotel I noticed Nelson's blanket was missing. On the way back to church that evening we all prayed that we could find his favorite blanket. When we arrived at the church Benson and I traced our steps back to the restaurant, checked in the restaurant and did not find it. After church we were driving down the road and Benson yelled, "I saw Nelson's blanket back there!" It took a minute for a us to pull over and I got out and ran back to where he pointed. Someone had picked it up, carried it a little ways and hung it over a nearby post! Needless to say, we were all very excited!
The children here are on holiday, so we are taking it easy as well and trust we will be able to enter back into the school work with some energy. We will be schooling until the end of June, so this is a welcomed break!
We are getting ready for Easter Sunday, and then excited about starting Sunday evening services and aThursday evening service. I am still getting the material ready for kids club!
Thanks for taking the time to check on us and most of all thank you for your prayers!
Katie
April 1, 2011
Well, since April greeted me "early," I thought I'd best update my page! Also, I realized that the above picture needs to be updated. Now that could be the biggest chore on my to-do list!
As I type this I have some of next year's curriculum downloading on my computer. I'm getting excited about next year's plans, and therefore, I am having a hard time concentrating on the end of this year. Actually, we had an easy week of school. Benson has been running a fever since Tuesday and Kay Lee started running a fever yesterday (Thursday). School can keep running through most sickness, but fevers aren't to school friendly. We have had Benson to the doctor twice this week; they believe it is just a virus. He has some rash on his face that is said to be a result of swollen glands. He is now getting a little congested-- so we'll see what happens! We were SO healthy during the winter, but Spring has brought us some sickness.
I have another project open on my computer = a kid's curriculum for our kid's club that will start in May. We've looked at many of the programs out there, and have decided to use our own materials. I just installed some software to design the material. "Material" makes it sound fancy, when in reality it will be very basic! Also, once again we are stepping out by faith to start these Thursday meetings in May! We are praying some will come, but I know for sure that 4 little Shore children are ecstatic!
We are enjoying being able to be out in nice weather; that is, if we can stay on our feet in the wind! However, I am very happy with the windy days; it is a better clothes dryer than sun or warm temperatures! (No joking!)
My husband posted pictures from Toad Day on the Happening Now page. It was a fun experience for the children. One interesting thing to note was the Toad Trivia Game we participated in. A multiple choice question was asked, and then we had to stand in the correct place for A, B, or C. When asked how long toads had been on the earth, we were the only family standing with the answer of "6 thousand years." The other options were in increments of "millions of years." Needless to say, the park ranger and Benjamin chatted a little after that!
Well, I trust I won't be working the night shift/early morning shift, but with children that aren't well, it is big possibility. So, I'd better close all of these programs on the computer!
Thanks for praying for us,
Katie
March 8, 2011
A quick note....
I would just like to share one more thing:
1st, it has been a blessing having Theophila (a 19 year old Christian girl) with us the last two Sundays. It is a blessing having her over after church for a few hours. We spend a lot of time laughing and trying to figure out what each of us is saying! A few times--we just spell it since our pronunciations are so different. I am looking forward to her teaching me to make some Chinese meals, and she wants to learn how to bake. I want to specifically ask you to pray for her as she lives in a difficult environment at the university housing. Praise the Lord --her parents trained her well and she is taking a stand for Christ. If any one would like to write her a letter please e-mail me and I will give you her address. I know it would be a huge blessing to her.
Thanks!
Katie
February 21, 2011
On the Home Front
We had a nice relaxed week of school last week. Schools here were out for the week so we took it easy as well. It was nice to get to the library and do some other errands during normal school hours! We got back to the books today and so did I. We are taking our driver's theory exam tomorrow so I am cramming! (Yea--special note--we passed!) We have a book and software that has been helping. I've actually taken so many "mock theory tests" today, I can't believe I'm still able to look at the computer screen!
Children are a blessing!
I've made it a point lately to let Benson and Kay Lee know how helpful they are on Sundays. So, I thought I would make it "public" here as well. I think I've always thought that the children would be a big help when they are teenagers. I was wrong-- they do SO much on Sunday mornings. Kay Lee usually unstacks and sets up about 30 chairs, puts the table cloths on the tables, and often occupies Nelson in the process. Benson can be found moving and setting up 3 tables, and unpacking and setting up signs. This is all done without being asked to! Often I will have Logan and Parker put hymnals on chairs, and guard the door so Nelson doesn't get out! Parker has also been "helping" Benson with the tables! (Praise the Lord the community centre has those nice light weight tables!) I've just been amazed lately when I turn around and something is all set up. Keep praying that they will have sweet, helpful attitudes.
Sunday Sanity
Well, for some reason this last Sunday I forgot THREE things! This was strange because I rarely forget anything. And, I can't borrow from another teacher, or raid some church storage room! So we did without coffee (I did have the tea!), milk, and card stock paper. Thankfully I did have some different paper with me. Also, we had a lower attendance so I had enough.
Pray for Nelson, as each week he is older and has a mind of his own! He is barely making it through the lesson before he gets fussy, and then doesn't really like being stuck in the pack 'n play either! Each week will bring new challenges.
The children listen very attentively to the lessons. Pray that I will have wisdom each week in my explanations. Some newer children indicated that they had never heard of Heaven. Trust me, I asked them, "are you sure you have never heard of heaven." They also have no concept of the idea of God creating the world. Thankfully small children are trusting and have more faith than most adults. Pray as we build a foundation that can last a lifetime!
In Closing
Benjamin and I were talking the other day about how the weather here hasn't bothered us. (Better than the FREEZING temperatures in the Northern US) We know it is the Lord that has helped us adjust. A few weeks ago I laughed because Parker shouted, "the sun is out!" Unfortunately, I think it was gone before everyone got to the window! It just makes us more thankful for the sunny days! I honestly think it has been 11 days now since we've seen the sun. But, "Why should I care if the sun doesn't shine, Jesus is mine all of the time."
Enjoy the last few days of February and remember spring IS coming!
Katie
February 2, 2011
Hello Friends,
Many of you are surrounded by the whiteness of winter, but we have lots of brown and green with wind and rain! The children are anxious to get out and fly their kites, but here it is a matter of the wind dying down enough to fly a kite!
We have enjoyed a "normal" schedule lately and getting much school done. We have had a good mix of Christian company over as well. It was a joy last week for the kids to enjoy having Miss. Lea over for the day. She works in a ministry about 40 minutes away. She did several wonderful crafts with the children. Don and Chris Dillman are here every other Wednesday also. I count it a HUGE blessing to have these influences for the children! We are also looking forward to a fellowship meeting next week.
Benjamin and I are studying for our driver's tests. Please pray that we will be dligent after the children go to bed! There is a theory test and a hazard perception test. The hazard perception test is like watching a virtual car going down a road and you have to click when you see a "hazard" forming. When we take these tests, they will then schedule us for a driving test.
I am getting more and more eager for nicer weather so we can meet more people! Last week I noticed that the younger boys hadn't been out of the house from Sunday to Sunday! Yikes! Thankfully we have all been in good health!
I'm planning to have a few neighbor girls over to frost some valentine cookies and do a craft. I'm also letting the SS children know we will have a Valentine Party in SS--I thought it would be a great way to talk about the love of God!
Thanks for your prayers for us!
Katie
January 18, 2011
I can't believe we are closer to the end of January than the beginning, I'm still saying Happy New Year!
"Cast you burden upon the Lord" has been ringing in my ears through the last few weeks. It is always hard when a child is sick! Benson ran an on and off fever with no appetite for about a week. My cousin's little girl fell and hit her head and ended up having part of her skull removed to get to the bleeding brain. Last night Benjamin took Parker to ER because of a fall that resulted in a terrible head pain and then caused him to "get sick." I truly believe the Lord answered prayer as Benjamin took him in. Once he left the house, I let people know and they began to pray. Parker never complained or threw up once they left the house. A completely different story before he left-- screaming and nausea! Thank the Lord for his protection in these areas!
Please continue to pray for my cousin Tammy's little girl Adalin that has cancer. (Many of you will recall us asking prayer for her for the last 3 years.) She is now at St. Judes this week (17th-20th) for her six month scans. Please pray that they will have clear scans and correct diagnoses. James and Tammy would appreciate your prayers as well for their anxiety during this time.
On a lighter note... Are you ready for some new words?
We had gammon for lunch on Sunday. (ham)
I ran out of icing sugar for the cinnamon rolls. (powdered)
I don't like passing a lorry on narrow roads! (semi-truck)
I fry my eggs on the hob. (stove)
We always have prawns on Christmas day. (shrimp)
Our family uses a lot of plasters! (band aids)
We ALL got a new jumper for Christmas! (sweater)
I need more washing-up liquid. (dish soap)
My kids like squash! (juice)
I need to run... thanks for your prayers for us,
Katie
January 5, 2011
It is hard for me to believe that just about a year ago I sat in Illinois while Benjamin was here in Scotland finishing up paper work with our sponsor and looking for housing and at the hospital. It was hard for me to share his excitement as my faith struggled not knowing if deputation was going to take another year or two :) He then arrived back to Illinois and we headed to South Carolina where he spent many days doing the tedious job of filling out all of the information for our visas. Again, I reluctantly checked over all of his work wondering if it was all in vain. I also struggled with not having an itinerary after the month of March. My wisdom thought he should be scheduling meetings-- not spending time on all this paperwork!! I'll never forget that last long trip back to Wisconsin with the truck fully loaded with our stuff. Our plan was to start packing and schedule the moving truck. As we headed that day, phone calls, and e-mails came streaming in saying that churches/individuals were taking us on for support. Thankfully I had a husband that acted on faith and had our family ready for this last year.
Looking at this year is completely different. Last year it seemed the Lord had all of the puzzle pieces in our hands and we were just waiting to see Him put them together. This year I'm asking the Lord to show me what puzzle pieces he wants me to work with and only those pieces. There are a million different directions I could head with the children, neighbors, church activities, etc.... but please pray with me that we will follow His leading and not my own every day.
I am excited about following a chronological Bible reading program this year. I think it has been since high school/early college since I followed something like this. I have already enjoyed it the last few days. Also, I never realized that Enoch (who walked with God and was not for God took him) was Noah's great great grandfather!
Sundays are going well. Nelson is being VERY cooperative and sleeping through the church service. He falls asleep in the sling while I teach SS and then I transfer him to the pack 'n play. Also, it was a blessing to have first time visitor on our first Sunday of the year!
Juat a note about Christmas... it truly was a wonderful day! We were invited to a couple places, but we had declined, and declared it was a family day. We had so much fun playing with new toys, games and just hanging out. It was nice not to have to get the kids all ready to go somewhere!
I've sat with two neighbor ladies in their homes lately and attended one birthday party. These aren't just normal everday opportunities-- the are definitely orchestrated for a reason. Thank you for your prayers.
The children continue to do well in school (probably better than their mom!) I'm often overwhelmed at the responsibilities every day brings, but thankfully God's mercies are new every morning.
Katie
December 24, 2010
Merry Christmas! Our house is buzzing with excitement! This children have enjoyed snatching the Christmas cards as soon as they hear them come through the mail slot!
Thank you to those who prayed for my Ladies neighborhood Christmas Tea. I can't wait until next year to do it again! The Lord knew how many people our house could handle, so the 5 ladies that came and two girls was just perfect. I believe everyone felt very comfortable-- I had to interrupt just to get and word in and let Marci give the Christmas devotional. I am praying now for more opportunities with these ladies.
Last Friday night the Lord blessed us with a great Carol Sing and the community centre. The children sang Go Tell it on the Mountain. It ended in laughter as Logan REALLY sang out on the end of the song, and therefore all of the children had to follow him as he added an extra line to the song. Kay Lee and Benson sang The Shepherd Song. It is a family favorite that focuses on giving Jesus your heart, though resources are lacking.
I think what has really thrown us into holiday mode is not having school this past week-- Yeah! We have enjoyed baking, puzzles and "down time." We have had some sickness, but I trust everyone is on the mend. (However I did spend some time on the boys floor last night because I thought Parker might need some assistance, but he was fine)
Shelby is still here being a blessing to us. She gets to joing us as we have our Christmas Eve dinner tonight. We are starting a few traditions, but next year will really be the test whether it is a tradition or not! The plan is though for all the kids to open their new sweater on Christmas Eve, get some nice pictures (hopefully) and have our nice meal. We'll see how that goes!
Nelson is now climbing as many steps as he wants. It seemed as though one day he got up two of them, and now he can go as far as he wants! Well, and once he goes up, there is no turning back skills yet!
As we reach the end of this year, my heart really is overwhelmed at God's goodness to us, His MANY provisions, and His love for us and those around us. Thank you for your prayers and encouragement to us!
Katie
December 4, 2010
Wow! Where do the weeks go?? Shelby has been with us now for almost 3 weeks. It has been a blessing having her around. I think she feels more at home now with all the snow.
We officially got snowed in this week. It started last Saturday and people are finally getting shoveled out today. Benjamin "found" our van under all the snow on Thursday. Having a shovel has been a blessing. We have also found that dust pans work great! The kids have enjoyed the snow! I can't let them out to play in the rain-- but I can in the snow! We also have been praying for a sledge (sled). Yesterday we went to a store and they were just getting a new box out! Yeah! Now, I don't have to carry the groceries home-- I can pull them home!! Obviously the kids are excited about going sledging (sledding). The snow has offered many opportunities to talk and chat with neighbors. I would say Benjamin averaged helping someone probably 2-3 times a day this week! I had two ladies and a little girl in this week to warm up and as I type one more is down stairs while her mum keeps digging out her car!
Today I have a special burden for my neighbor Rosemary. Rosemary had a birthday this week, she is in her 80's. We delivered cookies to all the neighbors on Tuesday. On Thursday we found out that she had saved her cookies until that day for her birthday! We already had a cupcake to take to her so we did that also. Today, I helped her through the very treacherous snow to the store and back. (I think I talked her into not trying that again.) She did fall once. She is planning on attending my Christmas party on the 14th.
Speaking of Christmas party... I believe I have a very good possibility of having 11 neighbor ladies over on December 14th at 7:00pm. I let them know we will have goodies and then take time for each to share a Christmas tradition. They also know I will have my friend Marci Bender share a devotion on the the Biblical Christmas story. I'm very excited (to say the least)! Please pray as we make preparations!
The children continue to do well. Kay Lee especially enjoyed having a 6 year old to play with this week and now another 8 year old girl is who is over now! Thank you Lord for friends! Nelson is learning not to touch the Christmas tree and not to climb the steps!! WOW-- they don't stay infants for long.
Tomorrow is Logan's 5th birthday. He wants an army tank, so it may be a late night for me!
Thank you for your prayers for us. We are excited about what the Lord is doing here!
Katie
November 12, 2010
Hello,
I can't help but think of many of you who have been having missions conferences. It was always one of our favorite times of the year. We listened to one sermon on-line this week and what a blessing it was! We also will have the experience of being on skpe with a missions conference next week! (It will be 1:30 am our time, so I'm still deciding if I should go to bed, or just stay up??)
Homeschooling continues to go well. I am so thankful that the Lord has answered my prayer with good readers. Benson enjoys reading-- including right now reading this over my shoulder -- which might make me go insane. (But now listening to him laugh at reading this is worth it!) My desire is to get Logan more involved with organized learning, so you can pray about that.
We have a few requests concerning next week: On Monday, Nelson will be going in for his outpatient surgery. They do not do circumcision at birth here, so he is now having that done. Also on Monday, a young lady from Iowa will be flying here, arriving on Tuesday. Pray for Shelby as she fly and joins our family for the next 5 weeks. We are excited about having the extra set of hands around as well as giving her a first hand experience in missions. The week will then conclude with our Creation Science Film night.
This Sunday we will start practicing a song for the children to sing in church and for the Carol Sing in December. When I told them about it last week, it brought many smiles to their faces! The majority of the children will be receiving a Bible this week also--so we have a fun day planned!
We have a whole list of ladies that seem like good prospects and that we are praying for. Please pray that they will attend soon, or that we can set up a Bible study time.
I trust you all enjoy your Harvest parties, Thanksgiving banquets, and other festivities!
Katie
October 28, 2010
British Vocabulary
Upon arriving in March, it was "fun" to use new words, and now it brings a smile to hear the children use British words normally in a sentence. The following are some common phrases we hear:
"One more shot down the shoot" (one turn down the slide)
"Drink your squash" (Drink your juice)
"Put it in the trolley" (Put it in the cart)
"Mind the car park" (Watch out in the parking lot)
"We are having bolognese and meatballs" (spaghetti....)
Peanut Butter and Jelly
I had heard that PB&J wasn't eaten over here; however when I had my neighbor and her girl over the other day, I offered them a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. She looked as if I had offered something horrible! After hearing her comment on how disgusting that would be, I started to laugh. I then remembered that jelly here is actually jello. Yes--- that would be horrible! She still didn't like the idea of peanut butter and JAM, but took a bite. I quickly got her a glass of water to choke it down! She was shocked when I told her that I would guess the majority of American students had a peanut butter and jam sandwich in their lunch that day!
Sunday School
When teaching through the life of Moses, I introduced the Ten Commandments and gave the children a bookmark with them on it. Two weeks later a little girl came to class with her bookmark and said she had them memorized! She said them to me but was a little disappointed that she would get confused on the order!! Wow-- we are praying she stays excited and keeps coming.
Christian Fellowship
It was a joy to visit with several other missionary families Sunday afternoon when we attended a special meeting to watch a creation dvd. I think it is one of those things you don't realize how much you miss until you have it and feel so refreshed!! All week I have also been listening to Creator, Redeemer from the WILDS! It had been missing since we got here-- but now I am making up for lost time.
Wednesday Home Meeting
We have started meeting at our house on Wednesday evenings with one man from the church. He comes straight from work and has dinner with us, Bible study, and then he and Benjamin head out to pass out a few tracts. I'm so thankful we can provide some Christian fellowship during his work week.
Enjoy the last few days of October!
Katie
October 10, 2010
Today was another exciting Sunday. It is a joy to have children in our SS. I am waiting now for the attendees to outnumber the Shore children! It was fun to teach my 4 and 4 others, plus keep care of Nelson. Last week I took the children out for the service. Today we decided just to have everyone in the service and it went well.
Today I did my lesson on John the Baptist. Tonight when I put Parker to bed I asked him what John the Baptist did. He answered, "He THREW Jesus into the water!" So, I trust the other children learned what really happened. Also, Logan said to me, " I wish Jesus was my cousin." I agreed that that would be pretty neat, but also explained that Jesus can be even better than a cousin -- he can be our Father!
By the way, I promised an update on our slumber party. Well, it ended up being in Kay Lee's room, and by the time everyone went to sleep, everyone was back in their own beds!! Oh, well, we will have to try again.... it was one of "those" experiences.
I just got a CD player for upstairs. It has been a blessing. I suggest to anyone Scripture Meditations 2. (There is also 1&3) It is beautiful orchestration with Dr. and Mrs Panosian reading scripture. It is powerful, and my children love listening to it at night; the scripture truly puts them at peace. You can purchase one from SMS http://www.smsrecordings.com
I'm having a hard time not getting ready for Christmas. I have always been one that thinks everything comes out in the stores too early. However, I'm ready to decorate and have parties. I think part of it is having a house to decorate and church festivities to plan. We have reserved the community centre for a carol sing in December. I'm also looking forward to deciding on some family traditions! Also, I trust Christmas time will give many witnessing opportunities.
One last thing, I am praying for a lady that may visit sometime. Benjamin had met her, and I have been by to drop off a baby gift and then just yesterday to finally meet her little boy! She also told me yesterday that her father passed away 5 days after little Graham was born. We are praying for other opportunities with her at this tender time in life.
I trust you all are enjoying the fall weather. Kay Lee and I went on a walk this evening and found some beautiful leaves. We are missing the pumpkin patches and apple orchards, but as you have seen pictures, the beauty is amazing.
Next time, I plan to share some common phrases we hear that are very British.
II Tim 1:7-8 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;
Katie
September 29, 2010
It is hard for me to believe that we have now been here for 6 months! Wow, I don't feel like I can say "we just moved here."
Loanhead Mum and Tots playgroup
Last Friday was my first time attending the playgroup. I took the 3 youngest boys. Logan was probably the oldest boy there since most his age are attending nursery or are in school. It is basically a drop-in play session from 9:30-11:30. I really was like a fish out of water, but it was good for me and I will be able to meet MANY ladies from Loanhead. Parker and Logan loved it. They have a giant bouncy castle that is just "fair game" while we are there. This Friday I have invited Hannah and here two boys to go with us. (Hannah is a Christian who came to the house and came to our HBT) You can pray that friendships will be made and the Lord will guide our conversations.
How do Sundays work?
I wish I knew..ha,ha! The plan (but we all know how plans go) is for Nelson to stay awake during Sunday school and sleep through church! That means, he needs to get up at 7 and then sleep from 8-9! If he doesn't nap before we leave for church at 9 then he will fall asleep during Sunday School and be awake for church! (I hope you were able to follow that!) I teach with him in the sling and so far he hasn't been to distracting, but it may get to the point where he is just smiling at everyone. By the way, no matter how many people we have, we go on like the place is full. I'm so thankful for Benjamin being faithful in the beginning weeks even when it was just us. I think that was very important for our family, so we didn't have to have a major adjustment with people attending.
How is the weather?
I am going to mention this now because it is actually my desire not to complain! I've come to the conclusion that no matter how nice the weather is, people still complain. We have had rather nice weather, but I believe reality is coming! Tomorrow will be our 4th day of straight rain with NO sun. That means the clothes will be hanging inside again. Also, the days are getting shorter very quickly! I know that is true for all of you in the States as well! It is just hard to believe a month ago it was light until 10 and got light again around 3:30, 4 o'clock! The lack of sunlight can be an issue, but we are praying for the Lord to help us adjust like He has in so many other areas!
Children Update
School continues to go well. I just started a new spelling program and typing so that has added some excitement. Kay Lee is doing well on the piano and Benson is begging to start! I asked Parker to count the other day and started him with "1", he quickly took off.. 2,4,6,8! So he has obviously been listening to Benson count by two's! I had Benson and Kay Lee draw a picture of the palace mentioned in Esther 1. Benson asked Kay Lee why she had little dots all over the floor. With a big sigh she said, "Benson, I just read it to you-- upon a pavement of red, and blue, and white, and black marbleS." I then had to tell her that is was marble not marbles!
Thank you for praying for us, it is evident! Next time, I should have pictures of our sleepover in the living room. I told Benson and Kay Lee that when they reached 1,000 pages read we would have a "slumber party"!
Katie
September 14, 2010
After Israel fights Amalek, Ex 17:14 says And the LORD said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua. This was once again a reminder to me to be reahearsing the truth to our children. It has been a joy to be teaching through the life of Moses in Sunday school. Parker can answer most questions and one day he will undertand the Mighty God that we have.
Life on the home front continues as normal. We were expecting a visitor today for a play date, but plans changed. This coming Friday I will be taking the three youngest boys to a Parent and Toddler playgroup in Loanhead. I am looking forward to meeting other parents while the children do crafts and play. We are hoping to make this a regular Friday morning activity. I'll keep you posted on how this goes and what we learn!
I will be having my first dental appointment here on Wednesday (tomorrow.) I have a bridge that needs some TLC so we will see what happens. It is always "scary" going to a new dentist, but especailly when your front false tooth may need to be totally replaced! Kay Lee has her top two teeth loose, so I keep joking that maybe we will be toothless together!
If you have read on our Happening Now tab, you know that the Lord gives many many open opportunities here. We are very encouraged.
I am in the process of getting new bank cards and a driver's license. My wallet was stolen out of my diaper bag in a very congested town that we were exploring.
Enjoy the beginnings of fall!
Katie
AUGUST 27, 2010
It is wonderful to start by letting you know that we just completed our first week of school. I had a tough "first day" but it got better. The first day truly did bring me to my knees asking the Lord for His strength. Our schedule goes from 8:30-2:30. It is wonderful to reach 2:30 and know that you have put a whole days work in!
I did some researching on home schooling here in Scotland. I thought I would share my "findings" with you. Even though home education has been on the rise in the last few years, it still isn't too common. I read a statistic that said there are 800 home schoolers out of 12 million students here in the UK. I am still searching for a group here in the Edinburgh area that we could possibly get to know. Unfortunately I just missed an outing last Saturday. There are no guidelines for home education set by the government. In fact, I read one article that suggested not even using a curriculum, just use "child directed" methods. This means basically just answering questions as they come up. They had an emphasis on the fact that basic activities are learning opportunities. It is also written that there are no set hours of schooling required. Lastly, the "authorities" are allowed to check on a family. The website states: if the authority are not satisfied that the parent is providing efficient education for him suitable to his age, ability and aptitude, it shall be the duty of the authority to serve a notice....
We are enjoying many visitors. Our sponsors from England were able to come for a day this week. It was a joy to meet them and finally know the man who my husband has to e-mail every day!!!! We have one single girl coming next week and then the following week we will have two retired couples come by that are touring here. So, for the rest of you-- book your stay any time!
Thank you for your prayers for us. We are still specifically praying for one family that has indicated they will visit on a Sunday.
In closing, I'll share a cute Parker story:
Parker: "God made me, Mom."
Me: "Yes, He sure did!"
Logan," Yeah, but we don't know what he made us with."
Me: "Dirt"
Paker (looking in the mirrior and turning head from side to side): "I don't see any dirt!"
Katie
August 10, 2010
It is often hard to "know where to begin," but it seems extra hard today. The Lord's blessing in my life, the ministry, and our family's life are beyond number.
Benjamin has covered HBT with his updates. I cannot keep thanking the Lord for FIFTEEN children.
On Wednesday of HBT, there were no children other than my Logan and Parker for the toddler class. We continued with our plans with some modifications. I had planned to cover the red page of the wordless book and followed that plan. Logan was completely glued to every word I was saying and to the picture of Jesus on the cross. We sat there on the mat for 25 minutes discussing Jesus' death. Logan asked several times with much concern, "But why mommy, did He not call angles to help him." He also asked, "Why didn't those people like him." We actually didn't have time for our craft. Benjamin came in and said something about being sorry no one was in our class. I immediately said not to be sorry and that I just had the opportunity of a liftime! Pray for Logan's understanding. This past Sunday he was also very concerned about the fact that little lambs had to be killed for the passover; his heart is tender.
I had a wonderful opportunity to talk with a lady at the park tonight. She is open and said she would be contacting me, please pray for Emma.
My focus must turn to getting everything set for homeschooling. (I have Christmas outreach plans, but that will have to be my reward for getting school in order!) It will just be Kay Lee and Benson again this year, with some odd and end stuff for Logan. The children are doing well. As many of you moms know, it is easy to be home all day but too busy! So yesterday, I declared "fun day" for the children and me. We played loads of board games and card games! And guess what-- the paper work, laundry, e-mails, and clutter didn't rot, it just waited for me!
It is a little cool and rainy here, my laundry is hanging for the second day-- will it be dry before morning???
I cannot begin to name names, but the many missionaries and pastor's wives that e-mail me are a blessing! So, keep them coming, and for any others reading this, let me encourage you to jot a note to someone today. I had the privilege to spend some time with a missionary friend today and what a joy it was to have Christian fellowship. We were also blessed with having Dr. Ron and Barbara Brooks in our home for a couple of days!
Enjoy the last weeks of summer!
Katie
July 19, 2010
Hello,
I know many of you are enduring the heat of summer, but we could wear a sweater here at some point in the day. However, I refuse to do so!
I can't really describe what a wonderful feeling it is to go out and about and see a familiar face. This happened three times in the last week! Last Monday we were greeted at a nearby park by a girl waving and saying "I met you all at the other park!" She also greeted Nelson by name! Sunday after church I saw a little girl that I had met. Her dad was lawn bowling. Even though we were cleaning up, I was glad she got to see where we meet and she stayed and chatted and I let her hold Nelson. (She had asked at the park when I met her, but I didn't think it was a good idea.) Then just tonight we went to a nearby shop and I saw a lady that attends the same library time, and we were able to chat. Like I said, I can't really express how encouraging it is to see someone you "know!"
The children are doing well. Kay Lee was able to go over to the neighbors deck a few days ago and play a game of battleship with their granddaughter.... this was exactly what she needed! Parker also was able to go over. Our neighbor Jim told me that he was trying to talk slower and with an accent so Parker could understand him! I thought that was cute. Parker came back home after having a bowl of Krispies, toast, and a doughnut!
Many of you have prayed for Nelson during our services. Last week was a little "rough" but this week I strapped him in the sling and he fell asleep just about the whole time. We are pre-recoring all of the hymns for two reasons: in case Nelson is unhappy, and it allows one more person (me) to actually be in the congregation! It seems to be working well. We can also have a prelude and postlude playing without me at the piano!
I'll let you go for now. Oh, but I just thought of one more thing! I was crossing the street the other day and a new neighbor was driving by and gave me a big wave-- another familiar face! Yeah!
Thanks for your prayers!
Katie
Growing Baby
Already and excited for church!
Craft time-- Baby Moses in a basket
June 29, 2010
Well, I guess time flies when you are having fun- right?? So much for posting every two weeks! Sorry about that. We even have two computers, so no excuses!
The fact that our shipment arrived is old news now-- in fact I only have a small box of homeless items! Thankfully we were able to store some things in the attic, but other than that,we need what we packed!
I had a great opportunity to sit with a 82 year old lady in her home last week. My husband had met her on a walk and she had stated she "wants to believe in God." As many unbelievers do, she doubted there was a God because of war, sickness, etc. I showed her from HER Bible that God made a perfect world and saw that it was "very good." I then continued through the entire gospel and explained some questions she had about inspiration, etc. She seemed to accept what I said as truth and wants to meet again. A few times she mentioned that she admired my faith and treated it as something she couldn't have. I marked a few good reading spots in her Bible and should follow up later this week. (By the way, she attends a Church of Scotland church every Sunday because she wants to believe.)
On two separate occasions now, I have talked to ladies that expressed they had received our leaflet. This was encouraging and the fact that they still had it was even better.
School here ends on Thursday. We have been pretty much done, so I will be glad the pressure of keeping them busy during school hours will be over for 6 weeks!
We are excited about our first official service Sunday. I'm guaranteed 5 in my class! Please pray as we figure out how to fit everyone and everything into the van! I'm hoping to take many pictures Sunday, so check back for a new post.
Enjoy your summer!
Katie
June 2, 2010
I have decided to TRY to update every two weeks, and right now I am ahead of schedule! (By the way, for some reason I cannot get the "bold" font turned off)
I feel as though we have had a very "normal week." School is continuing for us and right now is planned until the end of June. A few subjects have been completed as far as curriculm goes, but there is still plenty to do. Also, schools here continue until the end of June, so it is best that we also stay busy. (However, as I type this Kay Lee and Benson have headed out with Benjamin for an hour to pass out the leaflets.)
We received an e-mail last week stating that our shipment has cleared customs and they should have a delivery date for us in 7-10 days. So, we are thinking it should be delivered this month. I'm not sure where all of the "stuff" will go, but I know my clothes will be hung in the closet ASAP! I only packed my maternity clothes in my suitcase when we came. I guess it is better to have clothes to big than two small! Although I have been poked by safety pins in my skirt!
I figured out a way to do "major" grocery shopping without taking the whole family. Last week, Benjamin drove the van to Tesco and walked home. Then, I walked to Tesco, shopped, loaded the groceries in the van, and walked home. He then walked back to the store and drove the van home! He parked the van right by the bus stop so I am sure people thought it was odd that I loaded all of these groceries into the van and then left on the walking path!!
We are praying about a Holiday Bible Time (a.k.a VBS) this summer. My mind has been running wild with ideas, so I must quiet my heart and mind and ask the Lord what He wants us to do! I also have two plans for a Christmas outreach....... it will all come fast!
I talked with an Indian lady last night. She said they are Orthodox Indians, but they go to the Episcopol Church since their kind of church isn't here. I hope to see her again and perhaps they will come visit with us and hear the Truth.
Katie
May 22, 2010
Before I begin, let me say "Hello" to my sister. Even though she was with me for 10 days, she was still checking this sight to see if I had updated my corner!
We were blessed to have my mom here for two weeks and then my sister here for 10 days. Not that they can be replaced, but now I am definitely considering purchasing a swing for this wee one! I must say that Kay Lee does an excellent job with Nelson and acutally takes him when he is fussy!
Blessings have just been heaped upon us! Mom and Kelly both brought goodies from the States that I have stashed in the cupboards. Last Saturday, Chris Dillman (a fellow missionarie/s wife) surprised us with a baby shower! She did an unbelieveable job getting other missionary wives there from all directions! What a thrill it was to meet these ladies that I have heard about!
As far as driving, I have ventured out on the roads twice now! Benjamin said our next vehicle will be an automatic, but I say, if I'm going to put this much work into driving a stick, we should keep it!
The last two months here have not been without some "bumps." Benjamin broke down with the van, water boiler problems, a flood, and a new fridge. But also these bumps have brought people right into our home that could receive the gospel! I think we should title a book, "Bumps Become Blessings." For instance, the boiler required 3 visits, therefore 3 different men received the gospel! The flood required a plumber and now an insurance assessment! So, the Lord keeps bringing people right to us.
Now, I probably have some of you wondering about the flood! Yes-- I said flood. We had some tap problems in the second floor bathroom. We would turn it on and then it would quit. Well, we left for about 6 hours one day and
it evidently came on FULL BLAST while we away. We could hear it outside the door, and then when we opened the door, water greeted us. It was dripping from the ceiling and there was standing water on the wood floors! My sister was with us and she said, "Well, you could not have described this to me!" Both of our lap tops were on the floor, but praise the Lord they are both working! Hers was sitting in a pool of water and mine was in its saturated case. One of our couches got pretty wet, but it looks like it will survive. Memorable times!
I must get going. Keep the e-mails coming, we love hearing from you!
Katie
April 30, 2010
Well it is hard to believe that not only is Nelson here-- but he is over a week old already. This is shocking for two reasons: we had convinced ourselves that we were having a girl, and that I wouldn't deliver until about the 1st week of May! So the Lord has blessed us with another "big" baby boy with LOTS of hair. We honestly wouldn't know what to do if we had a bald baby.
Labor and delivery went very well. Obviously there are some differences between here and the States, but it was truly a positive expereince. If any of you ladies desire more details, feel free to e-mail me!
Yes, sleep is at a premium right now, but because of feedings, I think I actually sit down more now than before! Also, we don't go to the doctor for any visits. The midwife comes and checks on me and Nelson for the first 10 days, and then the health visitor will come and do weight checks.
Many of you have prayed for Angie Vogelphol. It is a blessing to see our in-box flooded with notes saying you are praying for her. Their accident was the same day Nelson was born. While we were still at the hosptial I mentioned to Benjamin that she was going to be excited we had another boy. She just thinks the Lord is raising up an army of boys for Scotland.
There is SO much that could be said. I have three ladies right now that I am specifically praying would set up a Bible study or visit the church when we get started in July. The children have adjusted exceptionally well, and homeschooling is going "ok" but needs a little more attention.
It is a joy to see the Lord making our new lifestyle easy and comfortable. It is pure joy to be where He has sent us.
April 7, 2010
It is hard to believe today marks 2 full weeks in Scotland. Thank you all for those that have e-mailed, and prayed for us here. We have figured ALOT out and even decided today to take a trip into the city "just because." It is difficult to know what to highlite-- but I'll do my best not to bore you!
Shopping-- you would think this would be an easy task since afterall we do have Super Walmart (ASDA) and Costco! However, have any of you experienced the frustrating task of finding something when your brand has changed its package?? I've found that I shouldn't assume anything. What you think is in a box is in a bag, or just wrapped in plastic, and what you think is in a bag is in a box! Also, is flour and sugar in the same aisle-- no, so I just go on a search and finally have to ask someone! I did find some instant pudding the other day. No where on the package did it say "pudding." However the directions said to add milk and whisk, so I figured this "Chocolate Delight" must be pudding!
Water-- Two things here-- I have asked my husband to please stop asking where the drinking fountain is. They obviously don't have them, since no one knows what he is talking about. Second, we learned to buy bottled water labled "still" else is is carbonated water!
Walking-- I need to start working on driving a stick, but until then, I am only about 13 minutes walking distance (in my condition) from a major grocery store. (However I learned the other day that carrying home two large pineapples, and two jugs of juice weren't the lightest purchases I could have made.) Also, the other direction about 10-15 minutes takes me to a variety of thrift stores, the butcher, frozen foods store, the bank, and many other "ma and pa shops."
Baby News-- I saw a midwife this week and measured at 38 weeks. I will see her weekly now and show up at the hospital when I need to. Each midwife watches over two patients during labor, and when it is actual delivery time, two midwives handle the job. If all is well, they can discharge mom and baby 6 hours after delivery; however you can spend the night depending....
Lord's provision-- We were given a crib, changing table, and Moses basket for the baby! I never thought we would meet the right people for that to work out. Also, an electronic keyboard was given to us. Kay Lee is especially excited about that & it is in her room! I also was able to win a bid on Ebay for a car seat and stroller! I was very excited since I saw the prices so high on car seats. Plus this comes with the base that just buckles into the seat. Here, you purchase a car seat, but the base is almost and extra $150. We will meet someone about 25 miles away Thursday night to pick it up.
I think I will stop there. We have started up homeschooling (even though right now it is a two week spring break here!) Please keep the e-mails coming, we love hearing from you all.
Katie
March 26, 2010
Hello,
I had full intentions of updating before we left, but obviously that didn't happen!
Before I get started, let me say, I will try not to repeat from Benjamin's updates and I am sorry some of my pictures are blurry, but I still wanted to share them!
It really was a joy to see all of this come together quickly and we praise the Lord for many details that haven't even been shared.
I'll start with my "illness." I actually didn't feel well from then "git-go" Tuesday morning. Even on the way to the airport, I had the thought, "Maybe I'm nervous, even though I don't think I am!" I felt horrible from Minneapolis to Chicago, and then couldn't eat lunch when we arrived in Chicago, but walked around and played with the kids. A huge blessing was that in the BA terminal there was a play area for the kids to climb on--yeah! The 7 1/2 hour flight to London went well. The kids colored and watched Thomas the Train and Bob the Builder. I think they all maybe got 2 hours of sleep. At one point Parker had fallen asleep and fell on the floor, but I just left him there and he continued sleeping. I dozed in and out, not feeling really great and swelling like a balloon. When we arrived in London we had to switch terminals go through customs and security. (By the way I was only wearing a pair of socks since my shoes wouldn't fit) We were really hurrying! Of course, they don't ask the parents the names of the kids, the kids have to answer by themselves! Which for them "What is your name" is a hard question at 3 in the morning. My plan was to give each child a dose of Dimetapp and possibly IB profen before boarding. They were starting to have a hard time and their ears hurt from the previous landing. Of course, at security they decided to confiscate my meds! (I really wanted to tell them they had already made it through 5 security checkpoints, and really wished I had their own policy printed out!) My first plan was to start giving everyone a dose right there, but I turned to see Benjamin shaking his head saying we are going to miss our flight! He was right, we walked up as the last ones boarding, and of course they have to check everyone's name, passport, and ticket AGAIN. When we got on the plane I realized we were the only family and the majority were business men going from London to Edinburgh. So here were are with three very tired children and a very pregnant woman-- I'm sure they were all thrilled! In between times of getting sick on the flight, I acutally laughed thinking about what the 3 business men across the aisle thought as 3 out of 4 cried because their ears hurt and their mother is throwing up, and the stewardess is retrieving an extra yellow hazardus waste bag! It was great.
Words really cannot express what a blessing the Dillmans and Landons were helping us at the airport. Also simply having our own vehicle the moment we arrived is a miracle! Especially that evening when Parker cut his lip. By the way, those were our first stitches, and trust me, as soon as we saw it we knew!
Settling in has gone pretty well. Friday we were able to get groceries and other necessities. We are still taking measurements and figuring out bed and dresser needs. I'm a little ready to put the suitcases AWAY!
I will end for now and add some pictures.
Thank you for your prayers for us. Pray now for Parker to leave his lip alone, not pick or bite it!
Thanks,
Katie
March 1, 2010
Hi there! Lord willing, we just finished our last long road trip of deputation!! (I can't believe I just said that!) We have one more trip from Wisconsin to Iowa, but I don't consider that "long."
We are now in Hudson, WI. The kids are looking forward to lots of cousin time with 7 other cousins their age. I plan to renew my driver's license, catch up on the two months of mail that greeted me, sort through bins of "stuff," and have my first OB appointment next week. Sounds fun-- doesn't it! Plus, you can pray that we get good homeschooling time in also.
We are truly humbled at the Lord's provision during deputation, and here at the end seeing churches partner with us.
Kay Lee especially is understanding what reaching 100% means. She is pretty transparent, and her facial expressions tell it all. Majority of the time it is excitement, yet at times you can see the uncertainty of the unknown.
All the children (even Parker) are excited about the $15 that I have tucked away for each of them. At a recent missions conference they each received this amount and we are saving it for their first money to be exchanged into the Scotland pound! This also will provide for something special they can get when we arrive. We will be shipping some toys, but we won't have those right away.
I'll have to take some pictures of the packing process. We have bins stored in Benjamin's parents garage. I really after 4 years don't have a clue what is in them!!
Thanks for checking in, I'll try to keep everyone posted through this transition!
February 16, 2010
My last post was written from Mendota, IL. This one is also, however, we have been to meetings in Indiana, Georgia, and North Carolina with a great stop in South Carolina where my sister's family once again graciously hosted us.
I can't even begin to count the many papers and phone calls that the Lord has allowed us to get in order. We also were ALL able to get doctors appointments for needed physicals this past month. Now.... we are working on the dentist appointments. (Actually, it really is of the Lord that we even have appointments scheduled, since I did not think of this aspect a few months ago!)
It is fun each day to get up and anticipate hearing of new support, or word on our visas! Our kids are also praying and waiting eagerly for these events to take place. It always makes me smile to hear them use terms such as "100 %," "visa applications," "biometrics" and so on....
I don't know about you, but more and more I realize that "the joy of the Lord is my strength." Honestly, the reason this is ringing true is because I've realized that if Satan can steal that joy-- the strength disappears. And what little things seem to steal that joy... you can pray for me on that note!
Lord willing we will be able to update on visas and more support soon! Also, this week counts week 31 of pregnancy! Parker prays for "Baby Emma".... so hopefully it IS a girl!!
Thank you for your prayers for us!
January 18, 2010
I actually think the whirlwind came to a stop today, and we are all still breathing! Benjamin has safely landed in Edinburgh, Scotland, and I and the kidos in Mendota, IL. Tuesday and Friday this week will be his house-hunting and researching days. Before he left he was able to contact a ReMax realtor that should be able to help him this week. He will take a train on Wednesday and head down toward Birmingham, England . There he will meet with our sponsor and draw up a work agreement. We are praying we will have our sponsorship number a week from today!
So far we have had a reasonably healthy winter, but Benson is now running a fever and Parker has a "croupy" cough; so we are praying it justs runs its course and is gone!
Have a good week, I'll update if there is any noteworthy news from Scotland.
January 8, 2010
Wow-- I can't believe it has been a month since I last updated! We had a great Christmas and anticipating a great year.
About a week before Christmas, I couldn't decided what to read so I just thought I should turn to the Christmas story. Although I have heard it read many times, Mary's words jumped out at me and I am using them as a daily prayer: "Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word." First, it isn't always easy to lay myself out as a servant (handmaid) and then to say, "whatever you want Lord!." So I am TRYING to use this in every aspect of life, whether little or seemingly small.
Although Parker is denying the fact of any baby at all, as you may know from our prayer letter, I am due April 21! Only 15 weeks away! The maternity clothes are out now!
We now have all of our information into our sponsor and we are awaiting a "sponsorship number" inorder to apply for our visas. Praise the Lord we were able to dig though paper work and storage bins and retrieve all of the important information.
We are looking forward to many miles of travel in the next few weeks! Thank you for your prayers for us.
Katie
December 7, 2009
Hello-- We had a wonderful Thanksgiving and now looking forward to Christmas!
We are very thankful for extra time with my family lately. In Michigan, we were able stay with my parents for a week and see other relatives. Currently we are in the third week of staying with my sister and her family.
We just celebrated Logan's 4th birthday this past weekend. Looking back over the year, I realized we were able to spend all of our birthdays with family members! What special memories we have.
Just yesterday we had a "FIRST" for deputation. After traveling over 200 miles Sunday afternoon, we arrived at our destination, but found NO church there. To make a long story short-- we had arrived at the pastor's house. Because of the length of time to figure this all out and contact the pastor, we arrived 10-15 minutes late for the service!! Yikes! The pastor and congregation were EXTREMELY gracious and loving! Thank you Bethel Baptist.
I trust you all are getting your Christmas shopping done-- I still have a small list!
We are excited to see us rushing to the 100% mark-- thanks for praying!
Katie
November 14, 2009
I can't believe we are about half way through November already. We have had a great last two weeks. It was a great blessing to visit our wonderful friends (more like family) in Goodells, MI. Also, the Coleman family has been a wonderful blessing allowing us to live with them for over a week! We have truly been overwhelmed with so many blessings since stepping out of our trailer.
October 29, 2009
Hello, hello!
Have you every had the feeling you need to go on vacation after vacation??? For the last week in the trailer, Benjamin booked a camp ground for us in Toledo, OH. Wow-- we were surprised when we were following our GPS and it said, "Take right, then 200 yards, take ferry"!!!!!! We ended up on South Bass Island. The empty and deserted campground actually ended up being the perfect place for the kids just to run around while we cleaned and weeded out stuff.
We are now headed to Michigan, where we have a great schedule of family and friends lined up to stay with. We are packed in like sardines, but we'll probably get rid of of a few more things! By the way, only an hour into our trip, we already had shampoo spill.--
I don't really have much more to say other than God is always good to us and we are excited more than ever to serve Him in this way. Lamentation 3 says, This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.
Actually I did think of something else. I'm not sure that I can really put it in words that make it as funny as it was, but I'll try: Kay Lee asked me why I was so excited. I told her I was excited because another church was "taking us on." Logan then perked up and asked, "A church is taking us on a boat?" We laughed and said no. He then continued and said, 'Taking us on what?-- a plane?" We tried to explain, but he still thought that a church taking us on a boat would be much more exciting than "taking us on for support!"
Thanks for keeping up with us on the deputation trail. BTW-- we are at 83%.
October 16, 2009
Hello Friends,
We are enjoying the last few days of being down south! Sunday after church we will start our trek to Indianapolis for BWM annual meeting.
For most of you that have received our prayer letter, you know the exciting news that we are expecting Baby #5 in the spring! I say "spring" because I am hesitant to give a due date yet! I'll let you know when I get a more definite time!
I have been busy downsizing ALL of our items. This has not been an impulsive decision, but after much prayer we have decided to "part" with our trailer!!! We will deliver our trailer to its new owners the last week of this month! (Yes, just 2 weeks away!)
I will admit, this has been a little harder on the emotions than I imagined it could be. It actually brings back memories of packing up our house-- which shows that the trailer really has been home. We are confident in the Lord's leading, and He is giving grace and working on the excitement to come!
Sooooo.. what are we going to do?? We've purchased a cargo carrier for the back of the truck and we should be able to fit everything we need into the truck and the carriers. And you may find us knocking on your door just needing some floor space. (Not joking)
In a way, I feel like we are starting deputation all over again! Pray for the adjustment for our children and many homes away from home.
I'll let you know how our transition goes next time!
September 29, 2009
Hello!
We are in the midst of much travel! And for any of you headed to PA any time soon, you may need to know that there are at least 6 (YES SIX) Unionville, PAs!!!! Unfortunately, we were headed to the wrong one Saturday evening, but figured it out, and we were only two hours later than anticipated. It could have been much "worse."
The children are doing well, and I am happy to report that Parker is once again enjoying Sunday school classes and the nursery! This is truly a praise, and the Lord's doing.
We have really enjoyed the beauty of Pennsylvania the last few days. The cool weather has been a little shocking, but we'll be back in Georgia soon!
Please pray for our health as we head into these cooler seasons. I trust I will be over this low fever and "yuckies" soon and no one else will get it. We have the Vitamin C handy!
In our prayer letters we have written some about the visa situation in Scotland. We cannot stress enough the importance of prayer in this area. I'm looking forward to rejoicing with many of you when it is all said and done, I trust this will be a way you can also see answer to prayer.
Thanks, and Happy Fall!
September 9, 2009
Well this is the first time this has happened, but I was just about done with this post and lost everything! But, I started out with some verses that have helped me keep my focus, so I must need to type them again: Psalm 25: 4-6 Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. Remember, O LORD, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old.
Once again we had a birthday to celebrate. Kay Lee's was extra special since the kids got to see Grandma Hansen come across Lake Michigan on the SS Badger (better known as Grandma's Boat)!
The only "interesting" thing I have to note is about Parker. Last Wednesday as he sat beside me at the piano while I accompanied Benjamin, he decided he was falling off the bench. I told him he could sit on the floor. Well, he discovered my foot was pedaling so he started playing with my feet. Unfortunately there was NO modesty rail, so a few people got some entertainment. Oh well, we'll get this all figured out and then deputaion will be over!
Pray for us as we travel-- I've calculated about 3,300 miles over the next 5 weeks.
August 26, 2009
CAMPGROUND FUN
Unfortunately, I didn't take any pictures, but this last weekend we had a church park us at a campground! It was fun and relaxing, but we also had a neat opportunity. Since we didn't have an evening Sunday service, we invited our "neighbor" kids over to our trailer. First, we made wordless book bracelets and then we showed two Mr Fix-It dvds using our projector. We dropped our awning down the side of the trailer and showed it up on there! (If you are unfamiliar with Mr Fix-It, they are OLD Bible stories narrated with pictures and have a little boy who learns a lesson from each one.) We enjoyed serving cookies and milk too!!!
HOMESCHOOLING
Thank you to those that have prayed for our homeschooling! We are off to a great start and it has been fun watching Benson learn to read! I would recommend the Horizon Reading and Math curriculum for Kindergarten! I'm planning on getting two more sets to take to the field!
We start our day about 9:00 with all four saying the pledges, verses and a few songs. Sometimes it is hard not to laugh hearing Logan and Parker echo the words after we say them. After Bible, Logan and Parker are "dismissed" (to put it nicely) and Kay Lee and Benson continue on. Benson is usually done by 11:30. Kay Lee and I work on some writing, science, and history while the boys are napping!
August 4, 2009
Wow, the boys are napping and Kay Lee is being entertained by an older cousin, so here I sit with no distractions!
I thought I should post a birthday picture of Parker-- can't believe my "baby" is 2!! We are hoping he enjoys his 3rd birthday a little more. He cried at two churches when they sang "Happy Birthday."
We completed our second day of school today. September is looking a little busy, so I thought I would get in the swing of things now. We have already had 2 "field trips!" Yesterday we enjoyed 45 minutes at the zoo to make sure we got our free train ride on Monday. Today we were able to listen in to story time at a local Christian coffee shop. The kids enjoyed the stories, craft, and snack!
We are looking forward to being at a junior camp next week. Benjamin will have 4 opportunities to preach!
July 7, 2009
Hello! Our family has had several special days in the last month and we thank many of you for the cards and support. We thank the Lord for a great ordination council and service for Benjamin a few weeks ago. We followed that up with an anniversary, Benson's birthday, and Benjamin's birthday. So, we have had party after party.
Our travels have taken us from Wisconsin to Iowa, and now to Illinois. Last week we were able to enjoy the beauty of the Mississippi River.
The children are doing well. They are growing physically and spiritually. The boys are outgrowing their shoes and Kay Lee's clothes are getting shorter! We have started learning verses pertaining to specific behaviour issues with each of the children. They are enjoying the sticker system and the reward of a happy heart as they obey! Recently I had to tell Logan to "stop jumping," after having to tell him again he asked, "mommy, what Bible verse say no jumping?"
I trust you all are enjoying the summer, thank you for your prayers for us!
June 10, 2009
This last month sure did go by fast. We had a wedding, camp, and many miles of travel! If you have read our prayer letter, you know that our computer has been out of commission. I like to say that it took a vacation. Unfortunatley, we are unable to paste our new letter on the website; I need to take the time to quick type it up again straight to the webpage.
I have more pictures to post than I know what to do with. We have many wedding pictures, hot air balloon pictures, strawberry picking pictures, camp pictures, and family pictures!
We have been very blessed to spend a lot of time with family during special events lately. We are very thankful for the godly families that we have.
One of my favorite stories from lately is about Benson. A Sunday school teacher walked into his class and said, "Your dad is the missionary - isn't he?" Benson replied, "we are all the missionaries!" He is VERY excited about going to Brazil someday without his parents and being THE missionary.
We have once again battled a few illnesses. Kay Lee just finished with an antibiotic for strep throat today and our day started with Parker "getting sick" for three hours staight! So we'll see if anyone gets "it" next. We are praying for all to be healthy this weekend for Benjamin's ordination. Please be in prayer about that specifically.
One more thing-- My niece Ellie asked Kay Lee what a GPS is for. Her answer was that it is to find churches where you have never been to.
Feel free to jot us a note anytime!
Katie
May 12, 2009
Hello! I cannot express how much fun we are having with family and friends! Also, the churches we have been in recently have made us feel so at home, and many we didn't want to leave!
We are currently in the Greenville, SC area with my family. My brother graduated with his fiance and they will be married on Saturday! My parents came down for the graduation and are staying the week. We are filling our days with a good balance of school and family fun.
Thank you for your prayers for us. We recently "ran into" a lady from CO that e-mails us, and reassured us she is praying for us. It was such and encouragement and blessing to re-meet her! She is getting excited to see us reach the 100% mark.
April 20, 2009
Well, I haven't had a good wireless connection lately, but now I can finally add something without trying to re-connect every other minute!
For the next few weeks, I would like to give you a trailer tour! Along the way, many ask how we fit eveyone and everything into our little house! So, here is a picture of the kid's room. Kay Lee has the top bunk, Benson has the bottom bunk, Logan has a crib mattress on the floor, and Parker is in the pack 'n play. A shoe bin is at the end of Kay Lee's bed, and a toy bin is at the end of Benson's bed! Thankfully they don't take up their whole bunk.
The next picture is of one cabinet. The top shelf contains all of our coloring books, crayons, markers, and some of those toys that have to be asked for!! The middle shelf is Parker's complete wardrobe! The bottom shelf has drawers with socks, and underwear, ties, and belts. Pajamas are stored on the sides! So-- there you have it, and I must admit, that this cabinet was recently re-organized!! Also, this cabinet opens from the other side in the kids room, giving better access to things!
Now I must add two stories from the last week. As the three oldest were watching the BJU Bible dvd, the teacher said she would be talking about sin and said, "now, sin is what?" Logan exclaimed that she was talking about cinnamon! I said, "no, she's talking about sin." Then she mentioned that jealousy is a sin. Logan then said, "she say jelly is a sin." I corrected him again and asked if he was hungry! Of course his answer was "yes!"
Secondly, we were parked at Lake Hartwell last week which had a very steep little hill right by our trailer. I walked out just in time to see Logan about ready to push Benson down the hill in the stroller. After I told them not to, Logan turned the stoller, but when I looked back he had it headed down the stairs of the hill. After quickly telling him to stop, I asked him what I told him not to do. Benson said, "he's not going to push me down the hill, he's going to push me down the stairs!
March 29, 2009
It is good to be back in the South! We have enjoyed a few wonderful days with the Burrell family and church family at Return Baptist in Demorest, GA. We are currently on our way to Greenville, SC to spend a few days with my sister and her family.
I actually don't have much news to share, but wanted to post a few new pictures. The boys were very excited to wear their suits today. We were able to get Benson a new suit and Logan is able to wear Benson's old one. Unfortunatley, Logan fell in the mud when we got home from church this morning, but at least it made it through the morning!
By the way-- Happy Spring!
March 22, 2009
We just finished up a missions conference in Georgetown, IL. It was a wonderful conference and we are sad that it is over! We all have many new friends-- even the kiddos! They really had fun this week running around with other kids their age.
Here are some stats from the past 2 weeks:
-- Showed dvd presentation 8 times
-- 7 church dinners
-- 4 meals in homes
-- 2 homes for lodging
-- 1 prophets chamber lodging
-- 1 misson house lodging
Just thought I'd share : ) It has been fun to watch the Lord take care of us and keep us busy! I've noticed that Kay Lee actually lip-sinks the dvd presentation. She practically has it memorized. I'm really not sure if Benson watches, but Parker and Logan still enjoy seeing "daddy," the highland cow, cars, and other things!
At times it is "sad" to move on after feeling so at home with churches, but we also look forward to what is next.
Thanks for checking in! Please pray as we start up school again, we have now had officially 2 weeks off! Yikes!
Katie
March 17, 2009
Wow- where does the time go? It's hard to believe it is already half way through March!
After our truck was fixed, we made a perfectly safe 20 hour trip up north! We enjoyed a great and busy missions conference in Schaumburg, IL and we are gearing up for another conference this Thursday through Sunday.
We have once again started battling different bugs, but they haven't slowed us down too much : ) We are going through a LOT of vitamin C and kleenex.
Kay Lee has had several days off school now with the schedule. Please pray that we will be able to get back on track and that she will do well.
March 4, 2009
Hello from cool southern Georgia! We have recently survived the Atlanta snow storm and are now weathering the record lows near Savannah, Ga.
Even though our truck is at the "doctor" we were able to take a trip and look for gators! Thankfully, we were able to see 8. We were anticipating looking one more time before we left, but now we are hoping that the truck gets fixed in time to head to Illinois. We start a missions conference at Bethel Baptist in Schaumburg on Saturday evening.
As for me, I have joined the coupon world lately! If you don't know about it, you should check out www.moneysavingmom.com sometime! They keep you posted on the latest deals. Also, my kids love to cut out coupons for me! Even Benjamin braved the snow on Sunday and went and got me a Sunday paper. My best deals lately include 4- 6pks of Trix yogurt for 84 cents each, Pillsbury ready bake brownies for 64 cents, 2 large boxes of Bisquick for $1.34 each, and more!! Shopping at different stores all the time keeps it interesting!
Pray for us as we travel many miles in the next few weeks! I am very excited about time change this weekend-- since we will be headed into CST from EST, there will be no time change for us. This is a huge blessing as we head into a busy week.
Thanks for the "chat!"
Katie
February 14, 2009
Happy Valentines Day!
I am thankful to report to everyone that we are all healthy!! We are also glad to be enjoying this nice southern weather.
We have been back in our trailer for a week now. Thank the Lord, Kay Lee jumped right back into a good school routine and is doing well. Benson is enjoying writing his name, but often ends it with an "e." Logan still doesn't understand his middle name (Kirk), and just always says, "I'm not Uncle Kirk!" And Parker-- we'll that's a little boy who is getting closer and closer to two years old! He enjoys pulling Kay Lee's hair and telling the other boys, "no!" But, it is really cute when he says, "please."
Tonight we have an opportunity to attend a Valentine's banquet, and Benjamin will give the challenge. Tomorrow we have two meetings, so it is a good busy weekend!
Please continue to pray for meetings. We have several open dates coming up and would like to see them filled!
Thanks- drop me a note when you can!
Katie
January 26, 2009
Thank you to all those that have prayed for us recently. As I mentioned last time, we've had the flu, and now we have had our share of pink eye, colds, and now I have something like laryngitis! We are in the midst of a wonderful missions conference, and I believe today the Lord is strengthening my voice. Kay Lee was able to help me out a little with the 1st-6th grade Sunday school class since my voice was at a whisper. She enjoyed sharing the Scottish word for some of our American words! Then yesterday, I typed out my testimony for someone to read aloud to the ladies at the tea time.
Ok, are you ready for a new Scottish recipe that we just tried?? Here it is, let me know if you try it!
4 boiled eggs
12 oz sausage
seasoned flour (I just mixed flour with some seasonings)
salt
pepper
bread crumbs
oil
Toss eggs in flour with salt and pepper
Cover eggs with uncooked sausage (keeping hands wet, really helps)
Roll in bread crumbs
Fry in oil
We enjoyed them! Let me know what you think!
January 17, 2009
Well, we have been away from home for almost 5 weeks now with 2 to go! We have enjoyed a lot of time with family and friends. Benson is the one who has mentioned that he just wants to sleep in his own bed!
We had our share of the stomach flu recently, and thankfully, Benson and Logan escaped the plague.
Just last Sunday I heard two great messages that renewed my mind and heart toward the lost. Two things that stuck out were: The Lord can revive the most spiritually dead, secondly, remember that the life of a lost person is a hard life (nothing good or glamorous about it.) I'll end there so this doesn't turn into a sermon!
O.k. now for a funny kid story: After helping Logan in the bathroom, I reminded him to flush the toilet. His response was: "Good job mommy, you remembered!" I had to laugh as I know he often hears me congratulating Benson on such a milestone!
Only two weeks left in January- lets make it count for Christ.
January 6, 2009
I decided to do a little "web-surfing" the other evening in order to learn a little more about Scotland. I came across a lady's personal website who lives in Fife, Scotland. I decided to jot her a note and told her about our plans. I was very curious about her response. I thought I would share it with you:
"Hi Katie
Thank you for your email and I'm glad you're enjoying my webiste.
I am a fellow believer, and know that you have a big challenge ahead spiritually with your new ministry. Scotland is a 'hard' country spiritually, and we do need an awakening from the Lord.
I know all the people you mention and I love reading Robert Murrey McCheyne's stuff. What a great man of God he was.
May I wish you a Blessed New Year and trust the Lord will bless your ministry.
In Christ
May"
WOW- wasn't that encouraging!
Dec 29, 2008
The Lord blessed us with a wonderful Christmas time. I trust you enjoyed family time as well celebrating the birth of our Saviour. While looking at Christmas lights along the road, Benson asked once, " Where is the manger?" I'm thankful it is one of the kids favorite things to see.
We also saw the Lord protect us in many miles of travel! Our trip from Iowa to Wisconsin was icy and we saw many vehicles in the ditch and even some semi-trailers stuck right on the road!
Do your kids ever get confused about what God has made? Logan looked out on Grandpa Shore's Christmas decorations and asked, "Did Papa make that?" He remained very quiet after I told him no, and then asked, "Did God make that?" We teach that "God made all things," yet we have to explain along the way!
We are now heading right into 2009! We are praying for more meetings to be scheduled and Lord willing to gain full support this year.
Happy New Year!
Dec 17, 2008
Since Christmas is only a week away, I'll start with saying "Merry Christmas!" We spent Thanksgiving with my family and celebrated Christmas then. Now we are ready to spend Christmas with Benjamin's family in Des Moines.
For now, I'll add one funny kid story: On our way to a friend's house to eat recently, we all took turns praying. Benson's prayer went like this: "Thank you that we can say 'thank you' for the food that we will eat, and thank you that we can say 'no thank you' if we don't want to eat it." TTYL- Merry Christmas!