tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87124126964673821252024-03-05T11:42:07.655+02:00Rambles and Run-onsAbby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.comBlogger165125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-40077645806713516702015-10-26T12:38:00.002+02:002015-10-26T12:38:33.767+02:00The Low-Down on Dar and My Last Blog Post<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Dar es Salaam, Tanzania . . . our new home!</span></div>
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I can't say enough thanks to all of you who prayed for our transition to Tanzania. God has been so good and has poured out abundant grace. We've slid into life here quite easily and feel that all of us have navigated the changes well.<br />
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- The Tanzanian people are so friendly and the bigger missionary community has welcomed us with open arms.<br />
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- The girls are enjoying Haven of Peace Academy and meeting lots of kids.<br />
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- I'm enjoying all the fresh fruits and veggies and it's great living by the ocean again.<br />
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There are a lot of similarities to South Africa- a lot of same foods in the grocery stores, driving on the same side of the road, the heat, many of the same plants and animals.<br />
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But, there are also a lot of differences. I have to soak my fruits and veggies in a wash before we can eat them. The stores have a smaller selection of things and cost a lot more. We have to dress a lot more conservatively. Traffic is CRAZY! <br />
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The girls love the opportunity to ride in a bajaj!</div>
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Kyle is settling into his role as Regional Administrator and we are both enjoying getting to know the missionary families. Coming up in December, all of us will be traveling out to South Sudan to visit the missionaries there. We are looking forward to seeing where they work and learning about what God is doing in that war torn country.<br />
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<b>This leads me into why this is my last blog post . . . </b><br />
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The nature of our ministry is ministering to other missionaries. Kyle and I are so incredibly excited about this and love the opportunity to build into others. In South Africa, blogging on our ministry and life was a chance for me to share what <u>we</u> were doing. Now that things have shifted a bit, our ministry is involves<u> other people's stories</u>. I wouldn't feel comfortable sharing in a blog what is going on in others' lives. I will continue though to post our adventures on Facebook. If you would like to get our email updates, please contact us at kfarran@abwe.cc<br />
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Thanks for all your prayers!<br />
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Our first temporary house</div>
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<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-71607447723410670562015-08-25T14:52:00.000+02:002015-08-25T14:52:36.913+02:0010 DAYS LEFT!Wow has this furlough gone by fast. It feels like just yesterday we were saying goodbye in South Africa and boarding the plane. <br />
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Some of those goodbyes are still raw on our hearts. Maybe that's why March 1st still feels like yesterday. We have moments of missing potjies, the Indian Ocean, curry, and of course our friends.<br />
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But, God has blessed us incredibly during this furlough.<br />
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Lots of time with family<br />
Lots of miles safely traveled<br />
Lots of church visits<br />
Very few illnesses<br />
Loads of fun and<br />
3 trips to Harrisburg, PA for events/trainings at ABWE<br />
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Hiking in Missouri</div>
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Fun with cousins!</div>
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Helping at ABWE</div>
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But, as the time draws near for the move to East Africa, my heart can get anxious . . . . really anxious.</div>
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Will the language come quickly? Will we make friends? Can I handle all the different challenges?</div>
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These are the questions I have to continually leave at God's feet. Sometimes more than once during a day! My tendency is to think, "I've already done this type of move once. I know how to navigate new cultures. I remember the struggle of language learning. I've got this!"</div>
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But the fears are still there. My heart is still anxious. <b>The dependency on God is still needed. </b> </div>
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That's why I'm so glad for the promises in scripture! Knowing who has called us to serve in East Africa and trusting completely in who is going to walk the road with us is reassuring! It almost makes it seem silly to ever worry. But, as the worries creep up, I find myself going to the passage below and finding courage. What a faithful God we serve.</div>
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<b>Lamentations 3: 21-24</b></div>
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<b>But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope:</b></div>
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<b>The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;</b></div>
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<b>his mercies are new every morning;</b></div>
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<b>great is your faithfulness.</b></div>
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<b>"The Lord is my portion," says my soul,</b></div>
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<b>great is your faithfulness.</b></div>
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<b>therefore I will hope in him.</b></div>
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<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-14401821466628754862015-05-04T20:33:00.000+02:002015-05-04T20:33:28.482+02:00THIRD-CULTURE KIDBefore leaving for the mission field, I read a book called <u>Third Culture Kids</u>. <br />
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Actually, I read it twice . . . .<br />
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The first time the content scared me to much that I had to read it a second time to wrap my mind around the information and what the book was actually trying to say.<br />
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In a nutshell, the book describes the challenges of growing up in a country (or many countries) that isn't their parents' country. It takes a look at how children adopt particulars from their host country which keeps them from fully fitting in to their parent's culture, yet at the same time, they don't fully fit into their host culture. Hence, they have a "third culture"- a mixture of it all.<br />
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The scary part of this book is the hurt and confusion that can last long into adulthood. But, the upsides are the incredible coping and people skills these Third Culture Kids have and their ability to navigate the world with a unique perspective.<br />
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After living in South Africa for 8 years, this is the first furlough where I'm beginning to see what this book is all about. Our girls have become a mixture of our American culture and South African culture. They have things they absolutely love about both cultures, yet struggle to be "fully" either one.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">While in Michigan in March, we were traveling to a church on a Sunday morning and one of my girls burst out in tears. She blurts out, almost in anger, "I don't even know what the trees are here or the names of the birds! Shouldn't I know. This is where I was born!"</span><br />
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My heart hurt for her. Kyle and I come home to familiar. We recognize a maple tree and an oak tree. We know the names the red-winged black birds and starlings.<br />
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But, people often ask our children, "Are you happy to be home?" <br />
Of course they answer, "yes"- that's what they're supposed to say. But sometimes I wonder how much of what I call home feels like home to them?<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">After asking for a "serviette" for the 20th time and not being understood, one of my daughters throws her hands up in frustration and says, "But I don't want to call it a napkin! I like calling it a serviette. Can't I keep calling it that? Why do I have to change?"</span><br />
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This furlough, I've watched the struggle with the things that they've adopted from South Africa that don't fit here in America. They honestly desire to be normal here, yet in no way want to give up parts of South African culture.<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">"Mom, I really miss how people walk us to our car when we say goodbye at a house. It was nice. Will they still do that in Tanzania? Even if they don't, can we keep doing that?"</span><br />
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Already they are recognizing that some of their South African selves might not fit into their new "home". This worries them. Honestly, it worries me. I want my kids to happy and feel like they fit in.<br />
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But it's not all negative! One of my great take-aways from the book was that supportive parents who keep dialog open and don't force one specific culture on a child can help them navigate these confusing waters.<br />
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So how has this looked in our family? Well . . . we're still learning. I'm so thankful for a third-culture husband who can speak into this from personal experience and help me understand what the girls are going through.<br />
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The promises from God's Word have given incredible strength. We talk frequently about having our roots down deep in God, not necessarily in a country. Hebrews 11:13b-14 "and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland" . . . . 16 "But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city."<br />
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We remind ourselves that our citizenship is in heaven. Phil 3:20-"But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ"<br />
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He truly brings comfort to our girls, not necessarily taking away the hurts, but giving a peace about who they are in Him.<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">As a family we try to</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">- validate the emotions, let the tears and frustrations be real</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">- encourage the girls to be exactly who they are</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">- let them keep the habits and cultural items from South Africa that they want to carry with them</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">- talk frequently of God's blessings in our life and our citizenship in Heaven</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">- talk about this things we enjoy in each culture</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">- LAUGH together as we make mistakes</span><br />
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Helping once a week at a rural school for orphans and vulnerable children</div>
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Lots of packing and unpacking</div>
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They can sleep anywhere!</div>
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<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-52314804071232835702015-03-20T02:07:00.000+02:002015-03-20T02:07:41.515+02:00Routine . . . What???There are a few words that should never go together.<br />
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Anchovies and Peanut butter<br />
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Kids and Mountain Dew<br />
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Furlough and Routine<br />
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It's so good to be back around family and friends. To eat foods we've missed. Freeze to death waiting for the car heater to warm up. To remember that we can make a right turn on red. . . .<br />
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But to fit in all the fun things, family visits and church meetings- means routine goes out the window. <br />
-bedtimes change (even the beds we're sleeping in)<br />
-new churches every Sunday<br />
-traveling nonstop<br />
-last minute schedule changes<br />
-surprise visits from friends and family<br />
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Please don't think I'm complaining. Staying up late and laughing with family, skipping school to play in the snow, changing plans to drive through a different state and visit a new church . . . It's great! We wouldn't change any of it.<br />
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So, I guess I'm asking for a little grace from everybody who runs into us :)<br />
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If we seem distracted<br />
If the kids are crazy<br />
If I can't recall your name right away<br />
If I'm yawning through our visit<br />
If my soon-to-be 5 year old doesn't reply when you say Hi to her . . .<br />
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we really mean well. We're just a bit tired and trying to soak in everything.<br />
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Soak in all the hugs, laughs, Mexican food, play dates, and conversations!<br />
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<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-36243855799664839812015-02-23T21:08:00.000+02:002015-02-23T21:08:30.610+02:00Less than a week . . . It's hard to believe I'm even saying those words.<br />
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Less than a week . . . until we move from South Africa.<br />
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Less than a week . . . until we have to find a new "normal"<br />
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Less than a week . . . until our children leave the country they call home.<br />
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But, through all the goodbyes, tears and unknowns, God is showing Himself big in our lives.<br />
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He's showing Himself to be a loving God that even cares that our kids were praying for great homes for their dogs (prayer request granted).<br />
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He's showing us how to have joy even when we feel sad. . . We are still laughing a lot!<br />
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He's teaching us that He is in control and even though we can't picture life in Tanzania. He's got it all in His hands.<br />
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<b>Bottom line- </b> Through the goodbyes we are finding joy. It has been joyful serving in South Africa and we have lots to celebrate.<br />
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We celebrate<br />
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Friendships.<br />
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Ministry.<br />
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Beautiful Country.<br />
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God's Creation.<br />
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Please pray with us that we would continue to celebrate right up until we get on the plane March 1st!Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-14943423297367937152014-12-18T15:38:00.001+02:002014-12-18T15:38:05.243+02:00BAD MORNING TO GOOD MORNING<div class="p1">
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<span class="s1">Needless to say, I went to bed in not the best of moods. Not for any particular reason, just really not looking forward to Thursday.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1">Kyle had just had two very long days teaching pastors.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">I had just had two very long days cooking for the pastors.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Abby is at camp and I miss her.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Laundry was calling.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Kyle and Emily would be gone all day at the game park.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">It is supposed to be REALLY hot.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Someone was coming to the house at 7am (they are from out-of-town) to buy my wicker chair.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1">Kyle’s alarm went off at 4:45am, he and Emily quietly slipped off to the game park . . . and I couldn’t fall back asleep.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Definitely not any smilies on my face when i finally dragged myself out of bed and got ready to meet a stranger at my gate.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">6:45am- my cell phone rang. They were early and at my gate. Ok, maybe my face was tipping into a frown.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">I walked out to the gate to be greeted by a bubbly women probably my age that instantly greeted Natalie, guessed her age and started sharing about her boys. We chatted casually as we walked to the house to look at the chair. I mentioned my oldest was at church camp. Her eyes lit up and she shared how her nephew had just given his life to the Lord at a camp and is now on fire for God. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">She decided to take the chair.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">We slowly walked back to the gate. She was all smiles talking about the Christmas season and way they’ve tried to focus on Christ as a family. I mentioned a book I was reading, shared a story from it and we both laughed. Her laugh was so genuine.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">As we said goodbye and they pulled out of the drive, I couldn’t help but notice that now I was smiling. That 5 minute encounter with a lady whose name I don’t even know lifted my spirits, pointed by morning towards Christ, and has kept a smile on my face all day. (We are many hours ahead in our day for all of you reading this in America.)</span></div>
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<span class="s1">I couldn’t help but ask myself, “Do I uplift people in such short encounters? In 5 minutes, can I point people to Christ? Do people leave an interaction with me in smiles?”</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Great questions to ponder . . . . with a smile on my face!</span></div>
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<span class="s1">By the way, I’m really enjoying the book mentioned above.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1">“How to Raise Selfless Kids in a Self-Centered World” by Dave Stone </span></div>
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Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-46583707393995832102014-12-12T15:18:00.000+02:002014-12-12T18:54:53.025+02:00Encouragement<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">I’ll admit it has been awhile since I’ve posted. </span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1">Probably because every time I sit down to write, I’m completely overwhelmed with all the things I could write about. Making the transition from working in South Africa to Kyle being the Regional Administrator in East Africa (meaning moving to Tanzania) has consumed my thoughts and heart.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Here are some of the topics I’ve considered writing about:</span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1">-the constant encouragement from friends and family as we make this transition</span></div>
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<span class="s1">-the incredible number of prayer requests on my heart</span></div>
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<span class="s1">-delights of the heart as we head into the celebration of Christmas</span></div>
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<span class="s1">-future fears that need to be turned over to God</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Let me touch on just the first point. It is one that brings such incredible joy.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">First a question for you-</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Did you ever stop to wonder why God included the personal greetings at the end of some of the New Testament books? Have you ever been tempted to skip over them? I mean, we don’t know them personally anyways? :)</span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1">Here are a few:</span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1">I Cor 16:19-20</span></div>
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<span class="s1">“The churches of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Prisca, together with the church in their house, send you hearty greetings in the Lord. All the brothers send you greetings.”</span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1">Philippians 4:21-22</span></div>
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<span class="s1">“Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household.”</span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1">3 John 1:15</span></div>
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<span class="s1">“Peace be to you. The friends greet you. Greet the friends, every one of them.”</span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1">2 Cor 13:12</span></div>
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<span class="s1">“Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you.”</span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">I’ll let you look up these next two for yourself. They are longer personal greetings.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">2 Timothy 4:19</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Colossians 4:7-18</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1">But, I’m glad God included them. It reminds us of how intentional and relational God has meant us to be. As relational beings, we can provide great comfort and encouragement to each other as we interact, listen, laugh . . . greet with a holy kiss . . . .</span></div>
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<span class="s1">I’m sure the New Testament church loved getting to the end of the letters and hearing the personal greetings, being reminded how much they were cared for and missed.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>This has rung so true for me over the last couple months. Greetings, encouragements and reminders that we are being prayed for have poured in since announcing our move to Tanzania. I have felt wrapped in love and “lifted up” even when I have wanted to doubt. God has used so many of you to touch my heart and point me to Him. </b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>Thank you.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">But let me leave you with a request.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">There are so many missionaries on the field this Christmas season who are missing family and friends horribly and working hard to find their joy in the Lord. If you know somebody in that situation, please drop them a note, pray for them, send through your “holy kisses” :)</span></div>
Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-56556773813966547852014-09-30T19:40:00.003+02:002014-09-30T19:42:06.492+02:00Being an MK: Awesome or Terrible?<br />
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<span class="s1"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Question: Is being an MK (missionary kid) good or bad?</span></b><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>There are lots of cool things about being an Missionary Kid. But every MK knows that there are also things that are not so cool. I have learned that to get over some of things that bother me about being an MK, I have to make sure I don’t take the cool things for granted! It is easy to get used to the awesome things that happen to an MK, and even easier to forget them when you are going through super hard times. </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>I am 12 years old, and I have been an MK in South Africa for almost 8 years. Over the years, I’ve grown up living in one country and saying that I belonged to another. Some MK’s struggle with the fact that they never belonged to a certain country. Or the fact that in some countries they look totally different(or talk totally different) than the majority of the natives. My sister and I are the only girls in our Youth Group that are white and every single time I talk to someone, they ask me if I am American! It took me quite a few years to get over that! Still others feel like they are totally different and therefore they can’t fit in with their friends. Some feel like they can’t talk to their parents or friends about how they feel because they haven’t shared the same experiences. I struggled with that for years! But trying to forget that you are different just won’t do any good. So I just let it go, I acknowledged that I was not African, but when I got over how I felt about being different, I realised that my friends didn’t care! I felt so dumb, because I had gone for years fretting and inwardly complaining about how different I was and then came to realise that my friends didn’t care if I was American, they liked me how I was, even if I talked with an accent or if I had no idea what was going on with the rugby teams, or the South African political strife! </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>One of the worst things an MK can do is spend their whole time in the mission field trying to fit in and cover up their true identity. Some hate that they are different than their friends, but sometimes it is fun to be different! For example, me being American gives people a chance to find out what Americans are like…or even what America is like. I have answered lots of questions about America and sometimes they are absolutely CRAZY! You soon find out that the sooner you stop fretting about being different, you start developing your own “nationality”. I’m American, there is no doubt about that, but I have started to fit in with my South African friends as the African/American! I’m different, and they love it! I have cool stories to tell in America, and I have cool stories to tell here in South Africa. I’m not an “oddball” that doesn’t fit in, I’m a girl that has tons of different stories and experiences to tell! </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span> There are lots of neat things that my family can do here, things we can do that we would NEVER be able to do if we lived in the States. For example, we live super close to a game park, so we see lions, giraffes, hyenas, wild dogs, and lots of other animals almost every month! And you know how people say to “embrace the chaos”? Well, a town close to us called Felixton has a leopard that lives right on the edge of town. Another town, called St. Lucia, its residents have reported hippos in their backyard! And the town right next to us has had its share of a hungry lioness! MKs all over the world have loads of stories that would fascinate other people for hours! But some MK’s(such as me) sometimes forget that we have tons of experiences that most kids will never have a chance to have. We forget this detail and we never share our wonderful experiences! </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>What many people have found out is that MKs often have more developed social skills, or better writing skills than most kids. It is because being an MK means that you have to interact with TONS of people, sometimes they are kids in an orphanage, pastors in a rural area, or sick women in a hospital. And although it just seems like a being in a torture chamber sometimes, you are learning how to interact with all different kinds of people, learning how to be encouraging and helpful, how to honour God through ALL your actions and words in any circumstance! And for MKs that travel a lot, or that have lots of different experiences, they’ve seen lots of different cultures, animals, and sceneries, and they often see the opportunity to add their experiences into a book, a blog, or even just in their daily talk! </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>Being an MK has many things that sound awful, such as relocating to a different country, leaving family behind, and lots more. But in each of those things, God has showed me and many others how cool these things can actually turn out to be! Some MKs have had an awful time on the field, they can lose a family member, they can get kicked out…but each of those MKs has had the opportunity to see God work in wonderful ways on the mission field! </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>Answer: Being an MK is awesome, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">-Abby Farran</span></div>
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Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-3267249234140434512014-09-26T09:39:00.000+02:002014-09-26T09:39:52.651+02:00FRIENDS, FOOD, FUNMatthew 7:9-11<br />
"Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!"<br />
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God gives good gifts to His children. It seems that many of the times, the gifts that lift my heart aren't items or things, but people, circumstances and encouragement.<br />
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This past week was one of those "gifts". <br />
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We traveled through to Durban (2 hours south) on Saturday. Spent the night with the Pastor and his family (7 kids + our 3= lots of fun!). Great conversation, lots of laughs, and most importantly- went to bed encouraged by the Christian fellowship and time spent with brothers and sisters in Christ.<br />
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These two were inseparable!</div>
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Sunday morning, we drove 45 minutes to the north side of Durban to be at a celebration service. 30 years of ministry at Fellowship Baptist Church started by ABWE missionaries. What a wonderful time to look back on God's faithfulness and His incredible work.<br />
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That evening we stayed with Vic and Nicci Willis- the Pastor of Fellowship Baptist Chruch. They will always hold a special place in my heart. We stayed with them on our survey trip back in 2005. They taught us so much about the country, helped us laugh at the things we didn't understand, and pushed us to brainstorm about the future. After arriving here to live, they continued to help us adjust, cried with me while we missed family and always had hugs available for our girls. </div>
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Nicci Willis and me</div>
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Monday morning, we packed our stuff up again. Piled in the car and headed into Durban city center to work on Kyle's passport at the US Consulate. Then rushed north 45 minutes for Abby's orthodontist appointment. Thankfully, we rolled back into Richards Bay just in time for Emily to head to rhythmic gymnastics practice. </div>
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But, it doesn't end there . . . </div>
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Wednesday was a public holiday- Heritage Day. So back to Durban we drove for a fellowship time with all the other missionaries and pastors. The kids played so hard and loved every part of the day. Definitely worth the 5 hours in the car :) </div>
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Lots of time in the car!</div>
<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-58192112453417283682014-09-19T15:59:00.001+03:002014-09-20T10:01:07.656+03:00FORGETTING THE BASIC JOYSIt is so easy to forget some of the simple truths of the Bible. Truths that we've heard for years that probably thrilled our heart at the beginning, but have somehow faded to just a plain fact.<br />
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Wednesday night's Bible study brought this idea front and center. <br />
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Kyle leads a Bible study at the Care Home. Sometimes there are several people there, sometimes no one. This Wednesday- just one.<br />
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We were studying Adam and Eve's sin in the garden and talking about Genesis 3:14-15. Kyle was unpacking how God had a redemptive plan for humans through Christ from the very beginning. He explained that God wasn't "thrown off" by their sin and then had to scramble around for hundreds of years to come up with a plan. No, God cursed the snake and gave a glimpse into His saving plan.<br />
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The lady there that night said,<b> "Wow, I've never known that. That is big. Comforting. I'm going to have to take a bit to think through that. Thanks."</b><br />
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It is big! <br />
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It is also a fact that we sometimes forget to dwell on. A fact that gives deep peace in uncertainty.<br />
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Nothing surprises God or sneaks up on Him.<br />
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Nothing gets out of His control and leaves Him scrambling to fix our messes.<br />
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I love watching people get excited over God's truth. But, I also love the opportunity it gives me to become re-excited over facts that somehow have become just facts.<br />
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<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-55301364082109286452014-08-27T15:13:00.000+03:002014-08-27T15:13:37.507+03:0010 YEARS OF MINISTRY<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Funny thing . . . . </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This July marked 10 years serving with ABWE. We just didn't know it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">They had a recognition service at the Missionary Enrichment conference we attended in July. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We were supposed to have read the notice in our registration packet . . . . we were supposed to be at the service early . . . we were all supposed to sit in the front . . . . (noticing a pattern?)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Needless to say, we were late, sitting in the back row and didn't even know we were part of the service until they called our name. All I could do was laugh. Next time, maybe we'll read all of our registration packet!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But, this past month I've taken time to reflect on 10 years of ministry. What has God taught me? Have I changed and grown any? What do I look forward to in the next 10 years?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I think I can sum up what God has taught me in one verse, </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b> Isaiah 55:8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD."</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This verse can unpack so many hidden sins and stumbling blocks for being properly used by God.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Pride</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Self-righteousness</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This verse also holds <b>incredible joy and peace!</b> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In my limited thoughts, my plans are just that- limited. I can't see through the valley or even understand why the valley is there. BUT, my Lord knows. He made the valley and has a beautiful purpose for it. In my thoughts, I'd rather skip the valley. This last 10 years has brought several valleys and out the other end of it, we've been able to praise God. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Praise Him for His goodness.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Praise Him for His faithfulness. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And, praise Him for the valley itself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Other thoughts or surprises . . . . </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">- never really thought I had the gift of hospitality, but now it is a big part of our ministry and an absolute delight.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">- I don't think I'll ever be able to live again without Indian spices to cook with!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">- It <b>never </b>gets easier to say goodbye to family. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">- I really can live in harmony with ants :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">- It surprised me that I could so easily forget the brands and products that I liked in America. Buying laundry detergent or cereal at Meijers is overwhelming</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">- Being behind the scenes to support and encourage others is truly fulfilling. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">- I STILL LOVE WHAT I DO! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Praise God for continuing to work in us all and we seek to honor Him with our lives.</span><br />
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Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-29575982536850494092014-08-23T18:57:00.000+03:002014-08-23T18:57:30.476+03:00BAKING WITH THULI<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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I'm sure most of you have heard me mention Pastor Clement- a long time friend who has helped us in so many ways here in South Africa. Below is a picture of his wife, Thuli. A dear friend of mine. </div>
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She worked for us at the Care Home and then worked as a private care giver in Richards Bay after the Care Home closed. But, her heart really wanted to be at home with her husband, helping with the Christian School on their property, ministering to church members and taking care of her children. </div>
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Since she had acquired an oven, she spoke to a tuck shop on the main road (small store that sells coke, candy, chips, cell phone minutes, etc) about selling some baked goods. This would give her a small income and allow her to stay at home. </div>
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Most homes out in the rural don't have ovens. The ladies cook on electric/gas burners that sit on the kitchen counters or table. So, baked goods are a real treat! The shop was very keen to sell her items, but she knew she needed practice first. She had lots of questions, like- how to cut in butter, how does a tooth pick tell you when something is done? And, she couldn't wait to watch me separate an egg yolk from the whites.</div>
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So, we've been pouring over recipes. The criteria- easy, yummy and cost-effective. </div>
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It has been a lot of fun to bake with her and watch her confidence grow! We've tried multiple variations of scones, cookies, and muffins. She's already been baking lots of bread.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiadAhFkHX5YwTMyqnywhUCH4TN-JFlSTt8FVRCwjqYj-0YvtE2RrX3GLsfucxdZ5aQOVbMMYPLtG6VGrPusrT15oqqh6AVfnZFT8Dt-HXh_97-t-W7NIl8GAM6fo3bdB0hMx2SAyC4flA5/s1600/IMG_2071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiadAhFkHX5YwTMyqnywhUCH4TN-JFlSTt8FVRCwjqYj-0YvtE2RrX3GLsfucxdZ5aQOVbMMYPLtG6VGrPusrT15oqqh6AVfnZFT8Dt-HXh_97-t-W7NIl8GAM6fo3bdB0hMx2SAyC4flA5/s1600/IMG_2071.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a><br />
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This is her kitchen space. No running water and we can only run one electric appliance at a time. The tubs on the table are for washing dishes. But, isn't the oven in the back beautiful?!</div>
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Below are pictures of my drive out to Thuli's. She lives about 35 minutes outside Richards Bay. We've been traveling there for so many years, that most people on this road know our vehicle and smile and wave. But, I do like having the 4x4 for when the road is flooded or I need to "push" through a crowd of guys hanging out waiting for a taxi.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj2sj-n518-e2lQM0g5aV-JIs4tt9c-u2MPUw-1gbQ0NJSlEpM3AzO4B17H5e9CUtO9Pdkxjf0SM7_Hk5o34OAtJyjAN51_D9SchThHORWthUcrhzRy3FST20C_0BNBjS_pCph3xh2zSPP/s1600/IMG_2069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj2sj-n518-e2lQM0g5aV-JIs4tt9c-u2MPUw-1gbQ0NJSlEpM3AzO4B17H5e9CUtO9Pdkxjf0SM7_Hk5o34OAtJyjAN51_D9SchThHORWthUcrhzRy3FST20C_0BNBjS_pCph3xh2zSPP/s1600/IMG_2069.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3RdaqO8J92d5CG1jnnbD5bJOXFkv2PKSwFEpixdePKGYQ7OVI2-mjR5zG5EUIQCj3JklkCYvLQji02mSk583x77MplPIRc9SgOEMBlWDNPxb0dJ3qjXpmuI17YTFx1sMGMpYAqnYhhJ3L/s1600/IMG_2070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3RdaqO8J92d5CG1jnnbD5bJOXFkv2PKSwFEpixdePKGYQ7OVI2-mjR5zG5EUIQCj3JklkCYvLQji02mSk583x77MplPIRc9SgOEMBlWDNPxb0dJ3qjXpmuI17YTFx1sMGMpYAqnYhhJ3L/s1600/IMG_2070.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is Thuli's youngest son. I spend most of my time there trying to get him to smile . . . so far no luck!</div>
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<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-44416797818405426652014-08-06T21:16:00.000+03:002014-08-06T21:16:35.215+03:00QUICK TRIP TO THE STATES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How do you sum up a 3 week trip back to the States?</div>
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. . . . . . lots of family, lots of food, lots of fun, lots of airplanes and one big Missionary Enrichment conference with our mission board.</div>
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The trip was everything each of us needed (whether we realized it at the time or not). Hugs from family, opportunities to share our ministry at two churches, encouragement from our ABWE home staff. </div>
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There were so many pictures to choose from, but these are a few of my favorites. </div>
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Meeka meeting her cousin Abby for the first time</div>
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Bubbles with more cousins</div>
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Natalie kayaking with Kyle and Uncle Mark</div>
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Great picture of my parents with all their grandkids</div>
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Natalie being silly at the zoo</div>
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Emily being silly at the zoo</div>
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Aunt Sherry and me</div>
Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-41737788691257639352014-06-24T15:40:00.000+03:002014-06-24T15:40:53.664+03:00THE BLESSING OF VETERAN MISSIONARIESKyle and I arrived in South Africa 7 years ago. At times we feel like it was just yesterday and many days I still count myself a "new" missionary with SOOO much to learn.<br />
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But for these past few years we've had a blessing from God living 5 minutes away- Veteran Missionaries!<br />
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Gary and MaryJane Strange served in Kenya before coming to South Africa. Unfortunately, they are retiring in September and heading back to the states :( It honestly about breaks my heart.<br />
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But, here is my list of the ways they have blessed my family.<br />
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They listen to us<br />
They come over and play dominos and eat popcorn<br />
They babysit our children<br />
They understand our struggles and when we miss home<br />
They encourage us<br />
They tell missionary stories we learn from<br />
They give us hugs . . . this is huge because we don't have family around<br />
They set an example of faithfulness that spurs us on<br />
They celebrate birthdays with us . . and Christmas . . . and Thanksgiving . . . and Easter . . .<br />
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Thanks Gary and MaryJane for living out your lives with us these past couple years!<br />
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<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-63958353761870106372014-05-22T11:06:00.000+03:002014-05-22T11:06:09.698+03:00TIME MANAGEMENT<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Time management . . . . a phrase that sometimes makes me cringe! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It makes me think of tasks. All my tasks. All the tasks that don't get done. All the cleaning. All the "good mommy" activities that should be happening in my home. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This quickly spirals to "I'm not very good at this" thoughts . . . . which rapidly leads to gloomy moods . . . . which instantly ruins my day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Yup, the phrase makes me cringe!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">All that changed when I started working through a Bible study called "Becoming a Woman of Excellence" by Cynthia Heald. It was given to me by a veteran missionary wife and I am so thankful for her thoughtfulness. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Over this past year, it has helped mold my attitude in my home. It has helped me find perspective!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In a nutshell, the book unpacks the worldly view of excellence vs the Biblical view of excellence.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Worldly view- excellence is accomplishing TASKS with a high degree of proficiency.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Biblical view- excellence is pursing the highest or best in; Godly virtues, Godly knowledge, striving towards holiness</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Wow! What a difference between the two.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I found myself asking, "Do I have a virtue that I would be 'excellent' at? Am I more concerned with having an excellently, clean home or excellent meals for my family? Do my children see me wanting to be excellent in the Godly management of my home, or just be excellent in the tasks I do?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Philippians 1:10 "So that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">God's things are excellent! Striving to center my tasks around His will produces excellence. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This lifted a huge burden off me. The burden to perform and live up to expectations that aren't fulfilling. It took some restructuring of my priorities. I had to "relabel" what an excellent day looked like to me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Before, being excellent in my day meant; clean house, home schooling accomplished, healthy meals cooked, missionary admin taken care of, blah, blah, blah. I would come to bedtime and feel if all of the above items were in order then I had managed my time well, accomplished my tasks, proved excellent at my job.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now (and this is still a work in progress), I come to bed and reflect on my day; was I patient with my children, did I demonstrate my husband's love language, did anything in my day point my children to Christ?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Yes, I still clean the house and cook healthy meals, but I don't measure my success or my excellence by my tasks. I'm not striving to finish my "list" by the end of the day, but to practice Godly qualities through my list. Some days I manage, some days I fail. But, the process is so much more fulfilling! The tasks can take on such deeper meaning when they are a means of working on our holiness. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I can choose to demonstrate patience when my children keep interrupting me while cooking.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I can choose to put down my broom and read a book to Natalie when she asks.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I can choose to invite my children into my tasks and take on a teacher role even though I know it will take me twice as long.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I can choose to be joyful even when I am exhausted.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I can choose not to complain.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Accomplishing a list like above is now what makes me smile at the end of the day, even if the broom is still sitting where I left it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><br />
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<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-59411083453161438192014-03-10T11:00:00.000+02:002014-03-10T11:00:12.202+02:00GUEST POST BY KYLE<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><b>Redefining success</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>I sat listening as a Zulu pastor unburdened his ministry challenges. He is a well respected community leader and an excellent testimony for the Lord. God has greatly blessed his ministry. But while listening I realized something: many of his upcoming decisions could make or break the ministry. They were sink or swim.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>My next thought hit me like a mortar. For so long I have been focused on the success of “my ministry”, but here was a ministry on the verge of collapse. If his ministry failed it will be a huge blow to the spread of the gospel. The most important thing I could right now was to do was lay aside “my ministry” and focus on building up “his ministry”.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><i><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span></i></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><i><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span></i>By empowering this pastor, <i>his ministry</i> would continue to succeed long after I am gone. It would succeed in culturally relevant ways that I never could. And if ten pastors like him could be empowered, then their success multiplies, reaching far more people than I ever could. Enduring. Culturally relevant. Multiplying. </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>As we launch into Zulu pastoral training, <i>how</i> I define success is very important. Will I define success by what I accomplish (how many pastors I train) or by what others accomplish (seeing pastors succeed)? I realize that my thinking needed to change. <b>I need to redefine success. </b>I used to define success as: seeing my ministry flourish. Sure, I was happy when others succeeded, but my success was not connected to their’s. But now, as I pour all of my energies into other pastors' ministries, <b>their success is my success. </b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>Flagship vs. Submarine Ministries</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>To redefine success, my pride takes a direct hit. It is nice to say: "look what <i>my ministry</i> accomplished". There is always a strong temptation in ministry to have a flagship ministry. Just as a naval force’s flagship is the most well known and important, a flagship ministry is the highly visible ministry that everyone sees. This is not to say that flagship ministries are wrong! They are needed. But if there is an existing flagship, a second one just gets in the way. </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>In our area, more submarines are needed, not more flagships. A submarine ministry takes a different approach: empower the flagship. Just as a naval flagship has multiple submarines offering support, so submarine ministries offer support to the flagship ministry. Rarely seen. Always empowering. It exists to help the flagship succeed. That is success. </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>Pray that God blesses these pastor's ministries and helps them to succeed. Pray also that I will be a faithful submarine!</span></div>
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Kyle</div>
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Missionary Gary Strange teaching Zulu pastors</div>
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Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-57836874403180792242014-03-07T20:12:00.001+02:002014-03-07T20:12:21.172+02:00EMILY TURNS 10Birthdays are fun in our house. March 4th is no exception! <br />
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Emily loves the days leading up to her Birthday celebration and constantly changes her mind as to what to have for dinner and dessert. I never know what she will choose. <br />
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And that's what I love about Emily.<br />
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She's creative. Funny. Loves everything deeply. And feels everything even deeper.<br />
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Her relationship with God is lived full force and the questions she asks always get me thinking.<br />
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She's constantly building something and "creating". Her mind is always whirling.<br />
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Maybe that's why she changed her mind about a thousand times for her birthday dinner!<br />
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She settled on chicken and egg fried rice and ice cream sundays. It was all yummy :)<br />
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What a blessing she is to our family!<br />
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She sure loves her dog Duchess!</div>
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Very surprised by Abby's gift</div>
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Ice cream sundays with carmel sauce</div>
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10 years ago :)</div>
Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-81769431368016627842014-03-04T14:07:00.000+02:002014-03-04T14:07:01.111+02:00CELEBRATING 7 YEARSEvery year, we try to go out to eat and celebrate God bringing us to live/work in South Africa.<br />
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Feb 28th marked seven years. It doesn't feel like that long. Time has gone by so fast with lots of incredibly memories. Our children have lived here longer than in the States. Kyle and I have lived more of our married life, here than at "home". But, even after these 7 years there are still some days when we feel like we don't belong or don't have a clue as to what we are doing! So, we try to take time out as a family and talk about this "journey". It impacts each of us differently. There are so many joys, but also a few heartaches.<br />
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I'll share some of the things we talked about:<br />
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Question #1- What to you is extra special about living in South Africa?<br />
Kyle- Going to the game park. Traveling to places on my motorcycle<br />
Heather- traveling to some beautiful places in the country<br />
Abby- participating in Rhythmic gymnastics<br />
Emily- being a part of the Rhythmic gymnastic team<br />
Natalie- warm weather to swim<br />
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Question #2- What do you not like about living in South Africa?<br />
Kyle- the crime and being away from family<br />
Heather- my answer was the same as Kyle's<br />
Abby- lack of safety and so many different language barriers<br />
Emily- seeing so much suffering<br />
Natalie- didn't really have one :)<br />
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Question #3- What do you look forward to in this next year?<br />
Kyle- building into other people and pastors<br />
Heather- there are lots of events coming up like, my parents visiting in April, a trip home in July, Regional Conference in Oct<br />
Abby- making new friends<br />
Emily- making new friends and helping new pastors<br />
Natalie- playing<br />
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At Mugg N Bean waiting for our sandwiches. We thought we were going to enjoy a nice cool lunch, but it was sooooo hot outside that the air conditioners for the mall couldn't keep up. It was so sticky in that booth :) </div>
<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-16464264456362954952014-02-26T10:25:00.001+02:002014-02-26T10:25:55.804+02:00FUNNY MISCOMMUNICATION<br />
Every Tuesday morning we go out as a family and do activities with a group of kindergarten children (see previous post 1/29/14 Abby and Emily's Ministry).<br />
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This week, it was a combined class of kindergarten and Grade 1, so there were a few new kids that didn't know us.<br />
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Greetings went well. Actions songs went well. <br />
<br />
Then it was time to split up into groups for reading time. One little guy that was supposed to be in Abby's group broke out in tears, went limp and refused to go to her group. We couldn't figure out what was wrong! A teacher stepped in to help, talked with the child and then broke out in a big grin.<br />
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The poor little boy thought Abby, dressed smartly in a black skirt and ruffled shirt, was a nurse . . . and that she was going to give him an INJECTION! <br />
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Not sure at all where he got that from, but soon he was smiling and sitting in her group for stories :)<br />
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No injections were given.<br />
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<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-54089068866938229672014-02-21T19:30:00.001+02:002014-02-21T19:31:27.096+02:00MY HEART IS SMILINGThis post has been a work in progress . . .<br />
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My heart has actually been smiling for a while now, but I couldn't quite figure out how to communicate it.<br />
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When Kyle and I first started into missions, the part I would play as a nurse on the mission field was always something we assumed would happen. Kyle didn't, and still doesn't, have any problem with me having a ministry centered around my nursing training. It makes sense. <br />
<br />
I'm a nurse, I love people, I love helping them = I love ministering to people through my nursing.<br />
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But, as the Care Home ministry (where I worked as a nurse to dying HIV+ women) was coming to an end and the pastoral training program that Kyle is involved in started picking up momentum, my heart started getting excited about different things.<br />
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I was SO excited . . . to see my husband SO excited about the potential of teaching Zulu pastors.<br />
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For the first time, I wasn't wondering what I was going to do- how was I going to use my nursing skills- how was God going to use me?<br />
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For the first time, I couldn't imagine anything more exciting or more fulfilling than supporting my husband in this new adventure. Even if that included putting my nursing training to the sidelines for a time.<br />
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So, my heart is smiling. Smiling because it feels so right to encourage, support and pray for my husband's ministry. Smiling because he is smiling. Smiling because I feel like a dark, selfish corner of my heart has been cleaned out by the Holy Spirit.<br />
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<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-42340044753574094202014-02-05T14:45:00.001+02:002014-02-05T14:45:24.186+02:00STILL LEARNING TO BE FLEXIBLEPlans change, things don't work out as expected, trying to be flexible . . .<br />
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These statements were all part the conversation in my head yesterday. <br />
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Frustrating? YES! <br />
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Going to have a bad attitude about it? NO! :)<br />
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Here's the story:<br />
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The girls have been asked to work with a kindergarten class on Tuesday mornings out at Pastor Clement's school (see previous post). At the same time that they are working with the little ones, I was asked to work with a group of high schoolers that were interested in a medical career. It was supposed to be 15-20 students for 45 minutes. They wanted hands-on activities like learning how to clean a wound, listen to heart sounds, teaching about the immune system and basic concepts, etc. I was more than eager to do this and set about preparing lessons and thinking through activities.<br />
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The first day had a few glitches . . . there were about 40 students and a lot of them not interested in a medical career, so they promptly tuned me out. But, I pushed forward hoping that the next week would be the promised smaller group of students.<br />
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Attempt #2: We arrived the second week. The girls were all prepared for their little class, I was all prepared for my SMALLER class. But, we were told that my class wasn't ready yet. They would have to come get me. Unfortunately, they didn't come to get me until 45 minutes later when the girls were done and we were supposed to be going home! There also wasn't a smaller group for me- they were going to have me speak to the entire Grade 10. Needless to say, Kyle spoke with Pastor Clement and it was decided that we would postpone my classes until some new classrooms (currently being built) were finished. This would provide some more space where a smaller group could meet.</div>
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I'll admit, I was disappointed. I was really looking forward to this teaching time and getting to know the students. But, I look forward to what God has for me and will wait patiently :) </div>
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Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-89407717873121899822014-01-29T13:04:00.000+02:002014-01-29T13:04:24.334+02:00ABBY AND EMILY'S MINISTRYThis excites my heart! Our girls have always been heavily involved in our ministry, but this is a ministry of their own :)<br />
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I've spoken about Pastor Clement quite frequently and just recently we were out to his place for a visit. Their Christian school (reaching out to orphans and the poor) was just about to start its school year. Pastor Clement asked Abby and Emily if they would like to be involved. He had a need for them . . .<br />
The school works hard to get the kids speaking English fluently. This is hard when they are surrounded by Zulu speakers 24/7. Clement was hoping that our girls would want to come out once a week and play games, read books, color, etc with one of the younger grades AND do it all in English.<br />
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The girls were so excited and started planning right away! They had some "ministry funds" to buy supplies and worked hard at talking through a schedule.<br />
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Their first day was this week on Tuesday. The 45 minutes included- action songs, a story book, a coloring page that went along with the story book and a game that taught the English phrase, "Hi, my name is _____"<br />
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They are definitely looking forward to next week!<br />
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<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-37445368746583286372014-01-28T16:49:00.000+02:002014-01-28T16:49:23.480+02:00YOUNG ADULTS EVENTEight young ladies came out for the year's first young adults activities. This was our first time leading it, so we felt a bit like we were floundering! But, everything seemed to go well and, minus the two that will be leaving for college, they all asked when we were scheduling the next one.<br />
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Here is the line up of what we did:<br />
Ice breaker game called "two truths and a lie"<br />
Big pot of soup and bread<br />
Kyle gave a devotional<br />
Then we closed with the game "Pit" . . . always loud and fun :)<br />
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And yes, for all those who recognized it, we did hold the event in the Care Home.<br />
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Please be praying for the next meeting in February. We are making up little fliers to pass out at church and hoping we can catch some of the young adults that "slip in and slip out". There is a HUGE young adult population in Richards Bay and we would love to find a way to minister to them.<br />
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<br />Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-701782732968985062014-01-28T14:36:00.000+02:002014-01-28T14:36:10.138+02:00CLOSING OF THE CARE HOMEYes, we've officially closed . . . all for good reasons. The biggest reason being that our area is a lot healthier. And it felt like it happened overnight!<br />
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Several great things happened in the last year that led to this:<br />
1) education about AIDS was everywhere. This opened dialog about a person's status, encouraged people to get tested, and decreased the stigma surrounding AIDS.<br />
2) then the medications to treat the patients started becoming readily available along with more doctors to handle the numbers. The ARVs are incredible- someone can go from being bed bound to up and walking in 2 weeks as their immune system gains strength<br />
3) big companies in our area started supporting their HIV+ workers, providing education at the work site and even mobile clinics to bring them their medications and take blood for testing if necessary.<br />
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All of this has caused a dramatic reduction in the number of dying HIV+ people, increased the family acceptance of them, and essentially made us obsolete.<br />
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Are we upset by this? Not at all! This means moms and dads are living longer. It means we have more time to reach of the communities with the gospel. It means that HIV+ people are being treated better.<br />
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So what next? There is still a lot of work to be done! Lots of kids were "left" behind when their parents died and so many young adults have grown up without learning any life skills. We are praying to see how God wants us to be involved. <br />
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Please pray with us!Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8712412696467382125.post-11109174180501291222013-10-23T09:28:00.001+02:002013-10-23T09:28:14.421+02:00HELPING OUTBackground information: Pastor Paulos works in eNseleni pastoring the Nseleni Baptist Church. We were introduced to him awhile back and he's been a huge help explaining Zulu culture, helping us with language and introducing us to the community. Three of our workers attend his church and our church, Calvary Baptist, donates weekly to their orphan feeding program.<br />
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So back to the opportunity to help out . . .<br />
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Pastor Paulos became aware of area in the town next door without a gospel presence. After some prayer, they decided to plant a church. For the month of October, they held tent meetings every night! People from their church slept in the tent and stayed there all day to be around to chat with people and continue ministering. One of the outreaches they held was a health awareness "clinic". Paulos's wife, Nelli, works for an eye doctor, she agreed to bring her testing machine out to the tent for vision screenings. We brought out two of our Care Home workers to do blood pressures and check blood sugars and I did mini assessments on the children.<br />
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It was so much fun!<br />
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The best part for me was seeing our workers use their skills for ministry and love it. Thuli kept coming to me just to say she was having so much fun and Zinhle found a way to make every person smile. On the ride home, they thanked us for the opportunity and expressed how enjoyable it was to "help out".<br />
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Nelli told that the church plant is going very well. 30 people so far have come to know the Lord! Their next step is to build a little building on the property and carry on with weekly services.<br />
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Please pray for this baby church and their leaders that God would give them boldness and keep them safe!<br />
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Taking blood sugars. Diabetes is a huge issue because of a diet mainly of starch</div>
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Area around the church plant</div>
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Holding a little guy while his mom gets her eyes checked</div>
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Nelli is wearing the dark blue jacket</div>
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Checking out the little ones</div>
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Thuli getting ready to take blood pressures</div>
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Zinhle checking blood sugars</div>
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Area across from the church plant</div>
Abby http://www.blogger.com/profile/13006784138408841191noreply@blogger.com0