Christmas between a Husband and Wife

          So Christmas is obviously different for Jeremy and I since being in Montana We can't just go out and buy each other everything We want for Christmas. So When the budget allows us to We go ahead and get something We want. So here is what We got for each other for Christmas :)

 I got this at Ross a few months back and I know what your thinking Cute right but what do you do with it? Well you can do whatever you want but here is what im doing with it.

I keep cards and letters in it :) My sweet Mamaw writes me at least once a week sometimes more and We have been here a year and a half !! See all those notebook papers folded up those are all letters from her! I am happy to have a place to keep them.

       Not long after coming to Montana My mom asked me if there was anything I needed. It had been raining ALOT at the time and I confessed that I really wanted a pair of rain boots. A couple weeks later what came in the mail :)

 These are awesome rain boots and perfect for snow  too except they are so cold they just were not warm enough, but now they are because a few months ago I got this awesome Christmas gift!

Boot Liners!!! My feet are staying warm and cozy now!!


Just yesterday I got this Christmas Present from Jeremy. I love it!!!!

 Ok I know what your thinking poor Jeremy has not got anything  and Steph has got a bunch of things ha! Here are Jeremys Christmas presents.

Jeremy was really in need of new shoes.
Before I show you this next picture let me say that Jeremy stood in line for almost 3 hours to get this at a price We could actually afford so dont think We spent full price because We couldnt have even on a good month.

    These are our Christmas presents!!! As you can tell We had a great year. I could never thank our supporters enough for all they do. We have supporters who send money and say use this for fun not on bills and thats how We get each other presents. We firmly believe that when you are sent money you use it how the giver ask you to. Money from Churches is always used on bills and needs not presents. Now with Christmas around the corner instead of being out stressing and trying to figure out what to get each other We are home enjoying our gifts. God has been so good to us and We are so thankful that He lays it on peoples hearts to send us "fun" money.

And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 
This year God has gone above and beyond this promise and We are so grateful!!!!

God will make a way!

              Last night (12/12/12) at Beyond Borders for Christ the 3 and under class had a special night. Here is the yummy snack they loved and ate

                        They all assured me that the reindeers were very yummy, but they are not what this post is about. This post is about God making a way even if there seems to be no way.

                  Every year Flora Baptist Church in  Flora, MS.  provides the kids with  Christmas presents. This is a HUGE blessing. This year each child will receive a tote bag that says beyond borders on it with all sorts of goodies inside some of which include tooth paste, toothbrushes, a hoodie, socks, and many other useful items. We are so thankful for Flora Baptist Church and their willingness to give.                    

           This year since I dont have very many in my class I decided that I would like to give the kids in my class a gift from me. The problem was Jeremy and I had no money in our budget for this. So I headed up to our craft closet  ( here at the church) where I found these cute tote bags ( dont worry the boys got boy colors :)).

Each child received a bag with their initial on the front and Beyond Borders for Christ 3 and Under Class. I still had to figure out what to put in the bags so I headed to our clothes closet. Last winter We had someone donate tons of knitted caps so each child had one of them in their bag.

          As I kept looking around in the clothes closet it just so happened someone had donated some stuffed animals and toy cars so the girls got two stuffed animals and the boys got a stuffed animal and a toy car.

    I also had some silly band so each child got a animal silly band and a coloring book with crayons. My little guys were super excited and it brought so much joy to me to be able to give them a gift and I am so grateful to the church for the craft closet and the clothes closet because of these two ministries I was able to feel the joy of giving a gift I wouldnt have been able to give any other way. I am thankful for those who donated unused or unwanted items to our clothes closet you were the reason for so many smiles last night. To the person who knitted all the caps you are the reason these little guys will stay a little warmer this winter.  I was surprised at how excited they got over the hats. They all wore them around and left wearing them. One little boys was too small and I told him I was sorry and that I had plenty more and would bring him another one next week. Someone else said try stretching it so we did and it went on his head but barely and it was no where near his ears it just sat on the very top of his head but He left wearing it proudly. It wasnt the greatest gift and they will get a better one next wednesday when they receive there gifts from Flora Ms, but I am thankful that God made a way so that I could give my little guys, that I love so much a Christmas gift.

****Update**** Not sure how I forgot the most important part each child received a New Testament bible. I know they cant read them now, but its something they can keep and know that someone cared enough about them to share the word of God with them even though they couldnt even read yet.

How are you losing weight?

         I have had so many ask How are you losing weight. The answer is embarassing!!! The reason I say this is because I could have and should have been doing this along time ago. So here is exactly what I'm doing.
        Exercise!! Yes I hate that word. I use to avoid it as if it were a bad word, but I have learned its really not. Exercise can be your friend. Since exercising daily not only am I losing weight but I feel amazing!! Although don't get me wrong if you haven't exercised in along time like me ( literally since they made us in wellness in high school) the amazing feeling will take awhile to get to. Don't give up though because it will come. If you feel you don't have time to exercise here is something silly I tried. When you are watching TV everytime a commercial comes on get off the couch and jog or walk in place until your show comes back on. Its simple and you cannot say oh I dont have time to do it. Some of you may wonder why Jeremy is dropping pounds alot faster than me. He is running I am NOT a runner!!! So that and obviously there are many other reasons. He is focused on getting healthy and losing weight. I am focus on the same, but I am borderline diabetic so I am also working hard to get my sugar under control. So exercise is a HUGE part of how i'm losing weight.
       Bye Bye Sodas and :( Sweet tea. Yes your not gonna like this one either and I struggled with it too. I have not had either since August and I can testify that I feel alot better and my color is alot better. I know you don't want to and I didn't want to either, but its possible to lose weight just by doing this. It takes alot of will power. I had so many ask me if I wanted a sweet tea or a coke and when my answer was no they would say "Ugh ones not gonna hurt you". Yes and no. One every now and then is better than all the time, but having that one will get you hooked all over again. Everyones different but I have found for me quitting all together works best. Yes you will have headaches, but don't give in they will pass and after awhile so will the cravings. Don't give up is the main thing!!
             Portion size. No I didnt wanna give this up either, but once I cut down on simply how much I eat I was ashamed at how little I could eat and be full. Why do We insist on being stuffed and miserable when We leave the table?? I have no answer because I once was in the same boat, but I can now say that it doesnt have to be that way. Cut down on those portions!!!
            Thats all how embarassing to find out its that easy, but no joke its that easy. I feel better, look better, and have so much more energy. Here are some pictures of the progress We have made so far. All I can say is wow!!! No wonder We feel better!!

A little secret Just between us.

     Hey Sweetie,
        I'm sorry I haven't wrote to you in awhile Life has been crazy lately, but don't think you haven't been on Mommys mind. I pray for you daily Literally to have you and also for your life once your here. I know God has a plan and I trust Him.
         Some exciting news....It looks as though We will be moving home this summer!!! I cannot tell you the joy and sorrow this brings me. I think about my grandparents and Mom and Dad and I could almost cry I'm so overwhelmed and excited, but then I think about Alayah and all my Wednesday night kids and I feel crushed my heart breaks. We have a good life in Montana We have fallen in love with our friends here and the thought of leaving this life I can't even fathom it. I know  We will keep in touch and come to visit as often as We can. I don't worry so much about our friends, but I worry about my little guys on Wednesday. I want them to have someone who loves them as much as I do. I don't know how I could ever tell them bye. I know I will have to. Just like when I told the only place I had ever called home bye to come here. I would have never thought when Your Daddy and I arrived here a year and a half ago that it would ever be so hard to leave. God has blessed us hugely and I know He will continue to do so.
              I am excited to see what God has in store for us in Tennessee of course I'm only human and a little selfish and I hope you are whats next for us. I cannot even describe to you how badly I want to hold you in my arms. I cannot understand how I love you so much and yet you have not even been created yet. I know that you will bring your daddy and I so much joy.  I also know that waiting for you will make us so much more appreciative and grateful once you arrive. Never forget for one moment baby that you were worth every second I waited and every tear I cried.
                 I just wanted to fill you in on our little secret. No one here ( in Montana) knows yet. I know I will cry buckets full when We tell them. I promise We will bring you back someday to meet all of our friends here. Not sure why but I always thought you would be born here. I guess I just hoped. I know its crazy, but I use to worry about my parents and your daddys parents getting here on time. If you came early or having to go back home to work and you coming to late where they have to leave before you get here. Now I feel extra silly for worrying since you wont even be born here. You will learn quickly that your Momma is a worrier and about the most craziest things. I will try my best not to be a overly paranoid Mommy. I just wanna make sure I do my very best to keep you safe from all the dangers of this crazy World. I love you so so much sweetie.



Love,
Momma
   

Hey Steph, Do You Remember???

                 God has really been showing me lately how truly blessed I am. Lately I have been looking at things around me and remembering how not so long ago the situation was very different. Nothing is better than being able to stand back and watch growth in a ministry your a part of. Its like God has being saying Hey Steph, do You Remember??? And then all these memories flood into my mind. I decided I had to blog because I never wanna forget where God has brought me from.
                  First off let me say That God answers prayers although not usually how we think He should. Its amazing to think back to a time you prayed about something so desperately and then later look back at how God answered that prayer, but you didnt even realized because you were too busy wanting things your way. Always remember We see the here and now, But God see the whole picture after all He holds our future in His hands.
                This weekend We had a Ladies Retreat. It was awesome ( as always). Our bible study topic was Marriage/Husbands. The book We used is "The Power of a Praying Wife".  We had so much good discussion because We each have a different story to tell and God brought back so many memories that I hadnt thought about in awhile.
              Jeremy and I were married in April I had just turned 19 in February.  Do not take this wrong I was So completely in love with Jeremy and still am. However I was a baby. I had a VERY hard time adjusting to married life. It did not help that after We got married Jeremy stopped having any interest in church. I was lost and confused and sunk into a depression. Somedays all I wanted was to disappear. My dreams of what I thought marriage would be were not how it really was. As I clung to God and drew closer to Him it was as if Jeremy went further way. I was praying constantly Some days my prayers were just sobs because I couldnt even find words. My point is prayer works!!!!!!!!! Now 4 years later We are missionaries in Hungry Horse, Montana. I am not bragging I am just amazed at God and His awesomeness!!  
              Here is another amazing Story I was reminded of and shared at Ladies Retreat. When Jeremy and I felt God calling us to Montana We had some credit card debt. We knew We were suppose to go, but there was no way We could afford to. We prayed and prayed, but it was just impossible nothing was happening. We thought ok we will just wait till we get it paid off, but God would not stop He kept telling us to go. So After more and more prayer We knew what We had to do. We HAD to GO. So Before We left We had a going away party. Friends and Family came and when the night was over We gathered up all the cards everyone had left us and began counting the money that was in them. We were astonished! To the cent the exact amount of our credit card debt. Now if We hadnt stepped out to go We would have never had the party. God wanted us to trust him as our provider. Its easy to say you trust God but actually doing it is very hard.
               I cannot even explain how much God has changed me since being here in Montana. I finally feel like I am getting closer to the women He has always wanted me to be. Yes, I sin daily that will never change because i'm only human, but I try my best to live for God and do what He has called me to do. He has changed me drastically just in the year and a half I have been in Montana. I have heard it preached all my life that We are the body and We all have a gift and a purpose, but I never knew mine. Although I still dont completely I know I have a job to do even if its just assisting someone else with their ministry. I am amazed at the growth in me as a wife, friend, and christian. I am not bragging Im praising God for yet another blessing.
            Everyone who knows me knows I cannot wait to be a mother. I cannot even fathom the love you feel when a doctor hands you your baby for the first time, or the feeling you get when your called Momma for the first time. This has been a major struggle for me. I cannot even begin to explain to you the emotions I have felt when God didnt just poof let me get pregnant. I will admit I stayed mad at him for along time because of this. I prayed and when I couldnt pray I sobbed. I begged for a baby. Finally one day I realized God had more for me to do before I became a mother. When We started feeling the call to Montana I begin to understand a little better why We werent packing up a baby to go with us. The truth is God had saved me and my family a ton of heartache. Can you imagine how mine and Jeremys parents would have felt seeing there grandbaby move over 2000 miles away from them. Dont get me wrong I mean no disrespect for those who live far away from their families. In fact I think your amazing and incredibly strong. I am thankful though and understand why God didnt allow us to have a family yet. Dont get me wrong I still wanna be a mother more than anything and can not wait for the day I look into my childs eyes, But I can say God is a on time God and really mean it now. Also my prayers are different although I still pray that someday Jeremy and I will have a baby of our own I pray that God have His will in our lives and that in His time We have the family He wants to give us. I had a friend tell me (when I was depressed and stressed and all kinds of other emotions because I wanted a baby) instead of being sad spend your time pouring your love into the children God has placed around you, and You would not believe how those words have changed my life. I never knew I could love children that arent mine the way I love these lil guys.
           Which brings me to something else that God is allowing me to do that has completely changed my life. Beyond Borders for Christ was doing great and really growing. We had a meeting with all those who help and it was brought up that another class was really needed. The need was for a younger class  The youngest class We had was pre K-1st grade. A younger class was not provided for several reasons one is some might bring little bitty kids and next thing you know were a daycare and another reason was they barely had enough help for the classes they had. The thing was two of the workers at Beyond Borders for Christ had young children who werent old enough for the youngest class. I knew immediately God was whispering This is for you Steph. So next the thing I knew I had my own class for 3 and under. I started out with the two workers children who are both 3. It was great. Since they were both girls after our lesson We would make necklaces and all kinds of girly stuff. Then boom one wednesday Here sit a little boy in my class ( he is 3 also). I had to improvise that night on my craft. I was excited to see it grow, but God didnt stop there I have had up to 6 kiddos in my class ( the average is normally 4) and whats even crazier is everyone of them are 3 years old!! I think its a huge blessing that they are all the same age. My nights with them were hectic and alot of them even frustrating. I will admit I have came home and just sat down and had a good cry before. I knew I needed a helper, but the ones willing already were in other classes. Well Praise the Lord the last few weeks I have had 2 helpers!! Each of them said How in the world did you do this alone?! My answer is im not sure really haha. I can see all sorts of growth in each child since We started this class. Here is a cool example .... One little boy in my class Todd  Started out in Joys class with his brother Heath. He was wild and Joy asked if He could come in my room ( not long after We discovered He was only 3 so he belonged in my room anyway) of course I said yes. I would literally have to pick Todd up and carry him out of Joys room as He screamed and cried for his brother. Once We got to our room He would cry some more and through out the night He would calm down and then the least little thing and He would be crying for his brother and to go to the other class. I pressed onward and just loved Todd through it all. Months have went by since all this and a few weeks ago We went into Joys room with her class and had a puppet show ( More about that ministry in a minute) After a while Todd came up to me and said Miss Stephanie Can We go to our room now?? You can imagine the big smile on my face when I told him we were going in just a few minutes. Another night only one little girl Chloe came. Sometimes when numbers are low We get to feeling sorry for ourselves and I started to just let her play, but God said Teach the lesson you had planned. So I did. I worked and worked that night with Chloe on a memory verse. God will always love me. Cant remember where it was in the bible except in Psalms. Months went by and one day Chloes grandma came in my room and said last sunday in sunday school at church Chloe was asked to say her memory verse from last week guess what she said. I said I dont know what? I almost cried when she said God will always Love me! She said just thought you might need to hear that. You are getting through to them even when it may not feel like it. Im so glad I went ahead and taught the lesson that night. I have seen so much growth in my class and although they are just babies I know im planting seeds and I hope I am around someday to see them blossom.
               A few months ago God said start a puppet ministry. My responds was huh? You want me to do what? How? When? I am already overwhelmed with all im doing now, but God kept telling me and giving me vision to start a puppet ministry. So I did. You can read how it got started and everything here and you can actually watch a video of them here. The growth I already see in this ministry is unreal. I have a awesome team doing the puppets every week and am so grateful for each of them. I couldnt understand at first why God wanted me to add more to my already overflowing plate, but I am beginning to understand. As I continue to pray for guidance and direction I sense that its not completely mine. I honestly feel that God had me start this ministry because I had the connection to Athens, Tn which is where the church is that donated the puppets. My role in it now is to find someone to take it over. Read more about that here. I have no doubt that God already has someone in mind and could possible already be calling them to this ministry. Isn't God amazing the way He works thing out. Like I already said He has the whole picture! A few weeks ago during the puppets the kids were giggling and so excited and it was like God whispered Hey Steph, Remember when this was just a idea? when you were saying no I already have too much to do?  Man God knows how to get to us. I am so glad God got through to me and I listened to Him because the puppet ministry is already a HUGE success and blessing.
         Wow so this has turned into a long post! God has just had all this on my mind lately. I think He really wants me to look around and see the growth and good in all the ministries I am lucky to be apart of. Its wonderful to see how far they have come. Of course I have tons more stories and I know there will be tons more stories to come. Our God is so amazing I am glad  He can see the whole picture and that I can trust Him.




***** The names of the kids have been changed Just a precaution*****

Three words.....I Need Help!!

     So my poor blog has been a little neglected. I have been so busy. Normally all that gets us through summers here is knowing winters around the corner. Summers are flat out INSANE!!! Between Wow Week, Sports Camp, and Summer food program. Thats not even mentioning mission teams coming out for the summer and all this is on top of all our other ministries that go on every week. ( By The Way definitely not complaining We are thankful for all these ministries and the people who come help put them on) So We look forward to winter because the tourist leave and We can breathe again and focus on our weekly ministries. So winter is here but I feel like We are still going 90 miles an hour and I am gasping to catch my breath.
   I was so excited to tell everyone about the puppets that We received and I am beyond proud of them and those who stepped up to use them. This is the very first Ministry that God gave me vision for and watching it come to life is more than amazing. I would do absolutely anything to keep it going and cannot wait to watch all the growth that I know its gonna do in the future, however I am not too proud to admit that Im overwhelmed. If I could focus solely on this ministry then piece of cake. Stand back and watch it grow, but thats not the case.
    I was blessed hugely this year when I started my very own class on Wednesday nights at Beyond Borders for Christ. 3 and Under is my class and I am so excited to announce that We have 5 three year olds attending regularly. I LOVE my class. Each child is so special.  They are a true blessing to me. So that plus the puppets is stretching me thin, but thats not all.
      I also help prepare the meal for Wednesdays. Again not complaining I love feeding hungry Kiddos. The meals are not hard, but even the simplest meal takes time to prepare. Of course this starts way before 6 and then after everythings over We are normally cleaning up till late. To say I am tired by the end of the night is a understatement, But wait I havent even mentioned Tuesdays.
     Every 2nd and 4th tuesday of the month I help in the clothes closet. We are open to anyone needing clothing from 8:30am-11:30am. We are always taking donations and   have been blessed with so many lately we are struggling to find places to put everything. Also Every tuesday We help cook for bible study.  This is all leading up to wednesdays.
   By the time I get to wednesdays I wake up tired and since  starting the puppet ministry I am overwhelmed and exhausted. I know I did what God wanted me to. He wanted me to start a puppet ministry He gave me clear vision about that. What im struggling with now is Where do I go from here? We have puppets and We have a puppet team willing to be the puppets weekly but im stuck. I have a hard time planning something for puppets weekly and my class and each week I find one or the other is put ahead of the other and the other suffers.
     What does all this mean besides I am a big whiner. The thing  is I need help. I am praying and would like you to pray too that someone would take one or the other. A puppet leader or a Teacher for the 3 and Under Class. I cannot continue to stand by and watch them suffer because my plate is running over. I know God has a plan and will work everything out I have no doubt in that. Please continue to pray for both these ministries and that help is on the way! :)

Puppets!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 I am excited to announce that the Puppets that were donated to us from Rocky Mount Baptist Church in Athens Tn made there debut along with Rob (The Red Head) from Clear Springs Baptist Church.  Listen to those sweet kiddos giggle. I am so thankful to the churches who donated the puppets and also those who played the puppets Everyone of you are the reason for those sweet giggles on this video. Our God is a awesome God.

Our God is so Faithful!!!

         I am completely overwhelmed as I sit here and write this.  God is so faithful. A few months ago I felt the call to start a puppet ministry on Wednesday nights at Beyond Borders For Christ  . The problem was we needed puppets we didnt have any. I knew no problem was to big for my God and if He was truly wanting me to start this ministry He would provide everything as long as I took the first step. So I did I sent out emails to a few churches back home. Not long after We received Rob. A Puppet from Clear Springs Baptist Church. He made his debut a few weeks ago and the kids were so excited. I would have loved to have a whole bunch of puppets but I was satisfied with Rob He was a great start and I was so thankful for him. At the same time I sent out the first emails my mom also sent a letter that was put into the Mcminn-meigs Association of Baptist Links. The letter was asking if anyone had any puppets their church no longer used that they would like to give for my puppet ministry. I figured no one would answer so today when UPS pulled up with 5 boxes addressed to me I was more than shocked, But nothing could have prepared me for what was inside those boxes .

   Now you may realize why I am overwhelmed. God is so Faithful. He had a plan all along. James Mason the Pastor at Rocky Mount Baptist Church read about us in the links and contacted my mom. She kept everything a secret from me so I could be surprised when I opened the boxes. This church donated 25 puppets!!!!!!!!! Im not sure they will ever know what a blessing this is and will be for the children who will very much enjoy this new ministry. Words cannot even describe how I feel right now. God is so Good!!!!

My 1st Black Friday

  Well I did it. After saying I wouldnt. I went black friday shopping!! Oh I have been involved in plenty of black fridays but not shopping. Working at the lovely Wal-Mart and it was horrible. Grown women in fist fights and all. I must say it was awful and I was talked to like I was a dog but It was the most entertaining day ever!
   So this year We went with some friends like a bunch of crazy people!! Jeremy got his Christmas present and it was worth it for what He saved but He did have to stand in line for about 2 hours. I didnt get to see a fight this year but thats not because there werent any! We did get some great deals and shared lots of laughs and great memories with our dear friends. We got into town around 8:30pm and ended up getting home around 3am! Thats crazy!! I was amazed at the women with little babies out in the madness. I promised myself that when I had a baby I would find a sitter I know what your thinking there are crazy people out everyday and yes your right, but ALL the crazies are out together on black friday!!!! 
   As I walked through the mess with clothes hangers under my feet and shoe boxes being thrown in the air as people tore through them I thought to myself This is so not worth it. That thought however quickly changed when I couldnt decide between two pairs of boots and I realized I could buy them both and it would still be cheaper than there original price. Anyway I am very happy with my boots and my smile will be a little brighter when I wear them knowing I got them for a amazing price. Pretty Sad when black friday is known as the day I might be able to actually get something name brand haha. Just kidding I am very blessed. God has ALWAYS and I know He will ALWAYS take good care of us.

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.               Philippians 4:19

Grumbly hateful or Humbly Grateful???

    Lees Sermon yesterday ( Sunday, November 18th) was so convicting. Are We grumbly hateful or humbly grateful?? Yes I have times that I get overwhelmed with all the blessings I see around me and am so thankful for all Gods mercy and grace, but not as often as I should. Lee also said We all have sick friends and family some even with terminal illness, but when is the last time We thanked God for our health?? Wow what a complete eye opener. I had to say a prayer in my heart right then and say God im sorry I have been grumbly hateful.  This blog is meant to be totally honest so I'll say it I complain and I complain often. About everything!! About ministries Were involved in. About cooking each week. About being away from family. About the weather during summer I complain about the sun being too hot and in winter I complain about the cold. Warning Being totally honest here I complain about people. I am ashamed. God has been so good to me and my family and here I am grumbling about the wonderful people God has placed around me and the fact that im able to be involved in so many great ministries. Yes my family is far away and its painful, but because of that I have been blessed with a Montana family which is all the friends we have made here. I should be thankful. Changing is not easy and it will be a daily struggle, but I wanna be humbly grateful. What about you???

my Grandparents

 This is Jeremy and I with my grandparents!!!! I still have both sets of my grandparents above is my Mamaw and Pap Harmon ( My moms parents) Below is my Mamaw and Papaw Wilcox ( My Daddys Parents)  I am not bragging I am Praising God :)!!!! But what im most Thankful for is they are ALL christians!!!!

Beyond Borders For Christ Worship

There is no video just sound listen to the praise and worship as they sing Our God by Chris Tomlin.

I am thankful for..... (2012)

               I wanna start this post out by saying I am blessed beyond belief. I am blessed for so many reasons but I want to start this post out with ministries I am thankful to be apart of.
              Jeremy and I were called to Hungry Horse, Montana in 2011. There is no way to even put into words what all I have learned and how much I have grown and am continuing to grow. I am so thankful that God brought us here.
             I am thankful for Beyond Borders for Christ and the 3 churches coming together for the children. I absolutely LOVE my little guys in my class. They mean so much to me and until recently I hadnt realized how attached I have become to them. I am thankful for the opportunity to be their teacher. I love each one of them and the joy they each bring to me and our class.   I am thankful for all the workers at Beyond Borders For Christ without them It would not exist or maybe it would but it sure wouldnt go as smoothly as it does now. I hate to play favorites but I must admit this ministry is my favorite which makes perfect sense  because a huge spot in my heart is for  kids. My heart breaks for children ,after all adults can change there situation kids cant. I am thankful that I have the opportunity to pour my time and heart into the children.
             I am thankful for Tuesday Night Bible Study at Canyon Baptist Church. Its wonderful to see so many come together for a good meal and time of fellowship and bible study afterwards. I am thankful for all those who are faithful to come every week.
             I am thankful to be worship leaders at Canyon Baptist Church. This was the ministry we came out here for, but once we got here we realized this was about so much more than music. Over the year and a half We have been here and still I can feel myself being shaped into the woman God wants me to be. I am thankful for Monte and Susan who have stepped up in so many ways since they started coming to Canyon Baptist this year. They are now worship leaders at Canyon Baptist Church and that is a huge weight off us to have help with that ministry. They are amazing and Im very thankful for them.
          I am thankful for support. As most everyone knows We work for Mission of Joy ( you can learn more about what Mission of Joy is  here ) We raise our own support and I am so Thankful for those who have enough confidence in us and the ministries were involved in that they support us. They have no idea what they mean to us and I could never find words to thank them enough. I am also thankful for the support Canyon Baptist Church receives. We are a small church that cannot run on our own funding and We rely on outside support and I am thankful for all those who support Canyon Baptist Church.
         I am thankful for prayers. I know not just family prays for us. We have so many friends back home and even friends We have met along the way that pray for us. I was in awe last sunday when I got a prayer from our prayer box ( a prayer box is where anyone can write down a prayer request and on sunday mornings We pass them out and someone prays for your request during prayer and hopefully all that week) it just so happened the prayer I pulled out said Pray for our mission team Lee and Joy  and Jeremy and Stephanie that they could be strong and stay on the path you lead. Give them vision and understanding and keep them lifted up in prayer. Of course it made me cry and during prayer I prayed for us but I also thanked God for whoever it was that wrote this request and asked Him to bless them in a special way. I am thankful that God hears our prayers.
            Last years Thanksgiving I am thankful for post mentioned my family and alot of friends here and so due to time im not going to mention them all again but you can see last years post here.
            This year I met Mandi Baldwin and her daughter Alayah. You can read our story here. We have become great friends and it didnt take long for Alayah to steal my heart. I am thankful for them and the friendship we have.
            Big J  and Cameron I mentioned you all in last years post but I wanted to add to this years what a blessing all your kids are, But I dont think I could ever explain how Alisa especially has touched my heart. Even if in the beginning she Only talked to me to ask where Jeremy was lol. Ill never forget when She finally noticed that I was ok too and called me anie for the longest.
            I am thankful for Noemi Lund. She comes to Canyon Baptist and We hit it off right off. We have the best time and can be found any tuesday night somewhere laughing. She is a great friend and I am thankful for her. I am also  thankful for her daughter Lisa who is a great friend and is always there when you need her.
           I am thankful for Di and how she fixes my mess ups. I am so thankful to have a hair dresser her close that I know and trust. 
         I am thankful for Steve and Becky and the friendship We have with them. They can always make us laugh and are always there when we need them. I have no idea how in the world I left them out of last years and im very sorry that  I did. They were one of our first few friends here and We love them very much.
       I am thankful for Buddie and Fran. We went to church with them at Oak Grove before We came to Montana but it took them coming to Montana for us to get to know them. I am thankful that We did. I am thankful for how we can laugh together and also have serious talks that is what friendship is about and I am thankful for them.
        I want to close saying I am thankful for my life and all God has allowed me to do and see so far and all I will see and do in the future. I am thankful for all experiences in my life good and bad because they have helped me grow and become who I am today. I am thankful for my testimony.
 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. - Isaiah 53:6  God has been So Good to me and I am blessed beyond belief.
       

      
             
       
           
    

Rocking Rob

          God had laid it on my heart for quite some time now to start a puppet ministry. I had no idea how or why but after lots of prayer I knew I had to start somewhere. So I sent out a few emails to churches back home asking to borrow any puppets to get started and to even see if its something the kids would be interested in. It wasnt long before I got a package and thanks to Clear Springs Baptist Church tonight was possible. Tonight "Rocking Rob" made his first debut and He was a HUGE success.
         We had him in The little kids class ( 3 years-1st grade) and the kids LOVED him. They already wanted to know if He would be back next week. We may not use him every single Wednesday but I think He will be used alot until We can get our own and then We will have to send Rob back to Tennessee. I still dont know what all it is God wants me to do but I know you have to start somewhere and tonight was a good start. Enjoy this Video of "Rocking Rob".

I survived our first paint night :)

 So last night was CRAZY but fun for the kids so its ok :)  We had story time about Jesus and the little Children and then We sang "Jesus Loves The Little Children" Which to my surprise they sang randomly the rest of the night as they were playing and stuff. So I think I finally found a song they all like. (The girls will sing any of the songs, The boys are the tough ones) Anyway I told them if they were good and listened to our bible story then We were gonna paint and ALL their eyes got SO BIG. So much excitement in my room last night. So they were good and We played a game to go along with our lesson and they all participated. (They were definitely afraid they werent gonna get to paint. So when it was time to paint Jeremy came in to help me ( Thank goodness I had five 3 year olds by myself and would have Never I repeat NEVER made it through painting with them myself) So I put on their little paint smocks and then Jeremy would paint their hand and help them put it on their paper then send them to me at the sink and I would help them get clean then take off their smock. We were half way through when I realized oh no We werent doing the group one as well as their individual ones. (I knew they would take the individual ones home So I wanted a group one to hang in our room) So I started putting smocks back on them and started the whole process over again. So after we were finished and all cleaned up our room looked like a colorful tornado had hit it.  So I took the kids to the eating area to eat and Jeremy stayed and cleaned our room which was a major help because I definitely couldnt have cleaned it with 3 year olds everywhere. I had made the kids snacks with bananas, graham crackers, honey, and a little chocolate,But I forgot them at home so we had fruit gummies instead.

            So when the night was over and I was alone in my room as I was picking up crayons and toys I opened the cabinet I keep my purse in and saw my camera :( In all the chaos I had forgot to get any pictures of them in their adorable little smocks or any other pictures for that matter. Instead of standing there beating myself up I pulled the camera out and took a picture of one of the kids little handprints and then took one of our group handprints. Hopefully I can rememeber pictures of them next week when we turn them into little turkeys.

         The night was very chaotic but in the end the kids left very happy and excited about our little project and I left blessed to have done something very little to make those precious babies smile. Look for lots more fun stuff to come from the Beyond Border for Christ Three and Under Class :)

This is hopefully what it will look like finished

Crafts, Games and more exciting things to come from the 3 and Under class at Beyond Borders For Christ!

      As most of you know I teach a 3 and under class on wednesday nights at  Beyond Borders For Christ. When my class started I only had 2 kids. I now have four 3 year olds and its a handful but awesome at the same time. I am so excited that my class is growing and am starting to do more fun games and activities to go along with our lessons instead of just free time. Which We will still have ocassionaly. So Of course im getting some great craft ideas off Pinterest. I have lots of craft ideas and soon we are actually gonna paint for one of our crafts. Please pray for me that I dont go crazy during all this, and that no outfits get ruined ( kids not mine I can buy myself more) My class is a blessing although alot of times I leave exhausted and some nights even frustrated. I have even been known to come home and have a good cry. A few wednesdays ago I had a lady come up to me whose granddaughter has been in my class since I started it. She said "You remember the first bible verse you taught Carmin?" Yes I remembered it was God Will always love me ( cant remember exactly where but its out of Psalms) She said "Carmins sunday school teacher asked her to say her bible verse from last sunday and thats the one she told her." She said just thought you might need to hear that. You are getting through to them and they are listening." It made me want to cry to know that 3 year old Carmin still rememebered that verse I had taught her at least over 6 months ago.
   So look for more exciting updates and pictures to come of our crafts and games.


Here is a picture of something We are going to start working on. We are going to learn how to tie our shoes by practicing. Of course I know they have plenty of time to learn since they are only 3 but I figured its never to early to begin learning and practicing. Of course I will think of a fun game to make them actually wanna try. Lots of Patience and practice :) Ill keep you updated on how it goes.

New Glasses, New Hair

      So I must tell you about two things my new glasses and my hair!!

  So a few weeks ago I saw a ad on facebook It said 

Exclusive Offer: Get a FREE Pair of Designer Eyeglasses with lenses from Coastal.com! — at Coastal.com

            I thought yeah right!! Later I decided to check it out and guess what ITS TRUE!!!  I picked out frames I liked and they were $85  not including lenses. I paid $15 for frames and lenses and shipping. Ok so it wasnt absolutely free but it was a great deal. Check them out on facebook today or just go to there website and get your free frames. Im glad I did :)

           My hair was getting SO long. The longest It has been since elementary school. It was a nice change but of course  I begin to get the fever to cut it. So I decided to get just a few inches cut off but to save money thought id do it on my own. All you gotta do is make sure its even I could do that. I took my hair cutting scissors out but quickly realized I would need help on the back. No big deal Jeremy can cut in a straight line. So I had Jeremy come help me. He asked where to cut and I said not short, you know a reasonable length. I felt safe saying this to Jeremy since He has been begging me to grow my hair out since We got married 4 years ago!! Not a good idea. I knew with the first cut I was in trouble. Bye Bye Long Hair!!! It was short. I tried to remain calm and cut the sides the same length as the (Short) back, but I was in panic mode. I tried my best but in the end decided the best thing to do was call Our friend D (shes a hairdresser). So I went to her shop and got it evened up. So Glad I have a hairdresser friend here who didnt laugh at me (even though she might have wanted to) The good thing is it will grow and my hair grows pretty fast. Plus it probably needed it, It was starting to feel stringy on my neck. So I will save money in other places the next time I want a haircut its to the hairdresser I go.  

             

Harvest Festival 2012

         Tonight was our Harvest Festival at Canyon Elementary School. It is like a carnival with Games, food, and lots of candy. This year the theme was   "Come  to a Luau." All us at Canyon Baptist had discussed how We didnt have anything to wear for this and probably wouldnt dress up. At the last minute something told me to check out our back closet at the church. I found a tote labeled costumes and I found a bunch of hats and leis. I even found a very unique hat for our unique pastor :)  We had so much fun and were happy to provide a safe haven for these kids instead of them going door to door treat of treating. A huge thanks to  Cassandra Schmidt for planning and getting everything together for this event. Also thanks to all those who came to help set up and stayed to clean up and those who came up to Canyon Baptist and helped cook. The night was a huge success.

Let all your things be done with charity. - 1 Corinthians 16:14

The most Amazing Dream!

   Hey sweetie,
        I had a awesome dream last night. About you. In my dream you were born and your Daddy and I were so proud. Your grandmas were both in the dream too and they hugged and jumped up and down when your daddy went out and said "Shes Here" Dont get me wrong who knows if you will actually be a girl but it was the sweetest dream and gave me so much hope, peace, and assurance. Especially since as I prayed last night I asked God to please give us a family in HIS time. Your name was Aubree Faith which surprised me just because that was a named I picked out for a girl years ago and it hadnt crossed my mind in awhile. This wasnt like the dreams were I couldnt see your face. Actually I saw you perfectly. You had the most beautiful little face with the wildest curly brown hair. Not sure exactly why but in my dream you were sick. You had to have a tube to help you breath and a IV. We could still hold you though and the dream was so real that I can still feel the weight of your little body in my arms. This dream was so real. You were my angel, my tiny miracle from above. I can also still feel the excitment. The joyful adrenaline is still pumping through my veins right now. This dream was absolutely amazing. Words cannot describe the hope it has given me. I know it could still be years but I feel sure that it was Gods way of saying be patient I have a plan and a time for that plan. I am trusting Him baby, Something I couldnt or wouldnt do for along time.  I have been for along time now and this dream was just an absolute blessing. Don't get me wrong sweetie it doesnt matter to me if your a boy or a girl, I just want you. To love you and raise you. You cannot imagine how much I love you already. I cannot wait to be your mom.
All My Love,
Momma

Thank you God for this wonderful dream you allowed me to have last night. Thank you for the clear vision of our baby. Its not about it actually being Aubree Faith its more about a baby. Jeremy and I had a baby in my dream and it was so clear. Everytime I picked her up out of the bassinet I can still feel myself lifting her up and snuggling her close. Thank you for that God and Thank you for all the other day to day blessings you give Jeremy and I. Lord, I know you will give us a baby in YOUR time. I pray Lord that our baby is healthy when that time comes. I pray for my pregnancy when that time comes. I pray that I can still do our ministries here while im pregnant. Thank you Lord for everything you have done for us as well as everything still to come. In Jesus Name, Amen

A Family Diet :)

    So Molly had to go to the vet today. (It was time for her rabies shot) The vet said She is Very healthy but She is overweight. She weighs 57 pounds and the vet would like to see her around 35. So the whole family is on a diet now.
    Let me back track for those who dont know Jeremy and I have been trying to lose weight. Were not on any particular diet just eating healthier, cutting back on portion size, and exercising daily. Our goal is to be healthier and Jeremy would like to get health insurance. He applied a while back but was denied.  One of my main goals is to get my blood sugar under control. I have battled with it for several years and final reached my point where im tired of it winning. I have cut all sodas completely out. I havent had anything but water to drink since August. As you know im a Ketchup lover (never even gave a second thought as to how much sugar was in it) I will eat a little on a hamburger when I have one but other than that im ketchup free. ( Which for me is HUGE). I was one of those people in a fog saying " I dont know why my blood sugars sky high I rarely have sweets (desert)" What I and many others fail to realize is Sugar is in so many foods that you never think about it being in. So far I have lost about 8 pounds and it feels great to finally take a stand against something thats been controling my life.
   So now all three of us are watching our weight. Only Molly dont know it yet. haha

Its Here!!!! (October 22, 2012) Why We crazy Tennesseeians get excited about snow.

  The snow is here!!!! Can you tell this is my excited face???

Yesterday We got our paycheck so We went to the bank and a few other places we needed to go in town. This was between 4-6 pm. On our way to town it started snowing but it was melting before it even hit the windshield. We didnt think anything of it. As were walking through Wal-Mart Jeremy gets a text from Lee that simply says "Bring it on". After further questions We found out that the grounds were already white in Hungry Horse. Needless to say We headed towards the checkouts. On the way home We passed several cars that had snow piled up on them. So We knew We were driving towards it and sure enough Hungry Horse was white and beautiful :). Once We got home safely We were very excited. So it snowed and snowed and this morning its still snowing!! The weather shows snow all the way till friday ( its tuesday today) This is the most snow I remember ever seeing!! ( The blizzard of 1993 I was in kindergarten so I dont remember it) Anyway for those who live here in Montana and dont understand our excitement this is why we get so excited over snow. Snow in Tennessee doesnt always come every year. Snow meant NO school. Sometimes even no work.Snow meant packed grocery stores because once the snow came most people didnt go anywhere. Churches were always canceled.  Snow meant fun and excitement for everyone. Im sure the longer We live here We may begin to dread it as well but as for now We cant help but get VERY excited about snow.

New Exciting Updates

      Time for some updates!! Tomorrow we will have been here a week (since We got back home from visiting family) And already we can see where God is working and where He has worked while we were gone. So here are some new and exciting updates from Hungry Horse.
     First off let me say that we are missionaries and We came here to be the worship leaders as well as help wherever were needed with that being said We came knowing that when We found someone  from Canyon Baptist Church willing to be worship leader We would step down let them be worship leader but We would not leave them We would still be there to help. Here is our reasoning behind all this We have no idea when or if We will be called somewhere else. So filling our jobs while were here and can still help whoever takes over just makes sense. Anyway We have been here over a year and our constant prayer at Canyon Baptist is for more workers. With the Ministries Canyon Baptist does its very clear as to why more workers are always needed. God has filled a couple of our main roles here and We are so Blessed and thankful.
    (I wont say there names just in case they are not comfortable being on the world wide web.) My sunday school class has a new teacher!! A wonderful lady who joined Canyon Baptist and was baptized at Lion Lake this summer. She is a awesome lady and very willing to work and I have no doubt she will be great!
   We have a amazing couple who came in and started helping wherever needed immediately. They joined and were baptized this summer at Lion Lake also. They are now Canyon Baptists Worship Leaders. They have been doing the job while We were gone and when We got back ( after lots of prayer about it while We were home) We asked if they would like to continue. They agreed and We are so thankful and blessed!! It is amazing to have a prayer answered after having to wait patiently.
   We are so excited about all of this, but dont take this the wrong way there is still tons of work to do here. We are in no way about to leave or even thinking of it! Yes I am no longer a sunday school teacher but I am now the Recording Secretary for Canyon Baptist. Jeremy is now the adult sunday school teacher.  So We are simply filling some roles and then stepping into other ones. We are so excited about what God is doing at Canyon Baptist and are so happy to be a part of it.
 

Delayed flight, missed connection and a missing guitar but God blessed us through it all!

    First off let me say it is SOOOO GOOD to be back in Montana. We had a great time in Tennessee visiting family and friends but we were ready to get back and get to work. Another reason its such a relief to be back is because of our flying experience but God even blessed us through all of it and answered  LOTS of prayers through out that day!!!
    The day started out normal We got to the airport around 7 (our flight left at 9:01) So we had time to spare. We got through security fine, although  they did call a check on Fannie (Jeremys Guitar) but all checked out fine there were some cables and a direct box in the case so thats what raised the concerns. So We found our terminal and sat down. We sat there till around 8:30 Which was suppose to be loading time but there was no plane there yet which I found to be odd. Then around 9 a note came up on the overhead tv saying our flight was delayed till 12pm. Oh you would not believe the way people actted. Yes Jeremy and I didnt feel the happiest but We knew yelling at and causing a scene was not gonna change a thing. So once the lines dyed down we went up to see if they could fix our flight schedule because there was no way we were gonna make our next connection.
   Ok let me back track for those who dont know. Jeremys ticket was bought at a different time than mine, and He had a very hard time getting on my flights. So We had one flight from Chicago to Las Vegas that We were not on together. His flight left about a hour before mine. We were praying about it and I know our families were too.
    Back to getting our flight schedule fixed, The whole time We stood in line I prayed that God would somehow Work this all out for the better. So the guy says I can rearrange it and your last flight will actually be the same. Which We thought was awesome because that meant We would get home the same time we would have if everything had went as scheduled. Little did We know We didnt know the half of how awesome this was gonna be. The guy then told us We would not be flying to Las Vegas that connection would be cut out. We would fly from Chicago to our last connection. Which meant no flying apart. God absolutely worked it all out for the better.
     The plane didnt actually leave till close to 1 so When we got to O'hare airport in Chicago the race was on. Of course We were at the opposite end of where We needed to be. The tram line was very long and no tram in sight so We walked/jogged. By the time We got there my heart was pounding and I was huffing and puffing but all was well. The overhead TV said On Schedule out beside our flight. I told Jeremy those words had never meant so much. So as were loading Jeremy takes Fannie like He always does and ask the flight attendant do I just sit this here? (It can be carried on but not on the actually inside it goes with checked luggage. He shakes his head yes so We sit her down and get on the plane.
   When We get to our next stop Denver. Fannie is not there with checked luggage!! So Jeremy goes and talks to a guy working at the Denver airport. He called the Chicago Airport and tells them the situation and the guy there told him if He found it He would send it to our destination Kalispell. Saying Jeremy was ill would be a understatement. Nothing We could do though but wait and see the outcome. So when We finally arrive in Kalispell and I was so relieved because 2 out of three places we landed that day Were windy and raining so it was a very bumpy ride. So We get off the plane and head to get our luggage. As we stood there waiting I prayed that Fannie would be there. Next thing I know Fannie came through the curtain on the conveyor belt. We were so happy.
   So as You can see it was a crazy day of traveling and stuff got off schedule but God had a plan all along. As We practically ran through Chicago airport I said Thank you Lord for your blessings on me because I would have been overwhelmed if I had been there without Jeremy. I know I would not have been alone though because God would have been right there with me but im thankful He seen fit to not make me go that route. As you can see so many prayers were answered as We traveled. Thanks so much to all of you who were praying for us too. God is good ALL the time!!


Psalm 107:28-30 Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed. Then they were glad that the waters were quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven

Its not goodbye, Just a see you later.

        Well as you probably know We hop on a plane tomorrow morning (October 13th) and head back towards Montana and to answer the question everyones asking YES we are ready. We love Montana and the people We get to minister with as well as those we minister too. We have so many friends in Montana who are so excited for our arrival back, and We are very excited too.
       I must brag on my family. Although I still have goodbyes to do this evening with my side of the family so far no one has cried. Its like a miracle for a few haha. Its perfectly okay to cry don't get me wrong but I wont lie it makes it harder on me. I just can't help it. I cannot stand to see someone cry and i'm the worlds worst at knowing what to say. I wont lie I spend the last few weeks of my trip dreading the goodbyes which is ridiculous I know, But anyway Just wanted to say Thanks to my family for holding it together this time. Besides that its not goodbye its see you later because We dont know when But we will be back to visit sometime.
      Also please pray for us and our flights tomorrow. I must admit the last time we came home ( which was my first time flying) I was a complete basket case!! This time (of course It might still all hit me tomorrow morning) I feel more calm. The only thing I have some anxiety about is our second flight. Thats because since our flights were booked at different times We are not one the same flight after our first layover!!! I know the people at the airport will help me find my terminal and everything will be ok ( the flights are only a hour apart) so when I get to our next layover Jeremy will be there waiting for me, but still im nervous. So just pray for that, as well as our safety on all our other flights.
          Let me say as well that if We missed saying goodbye to you I am so sorry. These last two weeks have been CRAZY. I wrote on paper what We were doing each day our last two weeks and We had one day open thats it. That was not just dinner dates it was lunch dates too!!! Then the next day my Momma called to see if I had a day open because she was gonna take me to Pigeon Forge to spend the night. So poof there went the one day I had left. I am not saying that to complain just explaining why you might not have got a official hug and goodbye. We are so blessed to have so many family and friends who call when were home and just really clear there calender in order to visit with us and We thank all of you who have done just that.
    I think my Papaw Wilcox said it best tuesday when Jeremy and I did goodbyes with him and Mamaw. He said "We are not gonna make this last day sad, We are gonna have fun and celebrate your time with us right up to the very end". How true those words are. So many times your last day here gets made into a gloomy day but its better to celebrate and have fun after all its not goodbye its see you later.

Vision and Understanding

         Sweetie I have got to tell you about Daddy and I. Finally We are on the same page and at a time in our lives where We think We are ready for you. We are trying to get everything on track by getting healthier. This will help me to ovulate more regularly so I can get pregnant with you and Daddy says when you get old enough to run around He wants to always be able to keep up with you and play as much as you want. We are not even pregnant with you yet but We are so excited about you. We know Gods timing will be perfect. We just wanna be ready when HE is ready.        
         I have been praying for vision and understanding and I was meaning for the ministry but I think God may have given me some other vision. I am trying not to get excited just incase im just looking into all this too deep. I have set myself up for let downs in the past because my wanting you so badly takes away all sense of normal reason. Here is what happen. Last night I kept hearing this voice tell me I was pregnant. I couldnt shake it. I thought maybe it was God but then thought maybe it was me and my craziness when it comes to you. But then this morning I get a text from Mandi asking if im pregnant?? I text back no lol and she text back are you sure? Wow that totally blew me away!!! I said well no lol why?? and she said the last couple days She had pictures of me pop into her head and in them I was pregnant. I wasnt gonna tell your daddy about last night but added with all this I just had too. Of course He just said Hmmm and went about his business. I worry alot more now that He is ready to have you because I can handle my body letting me down each month but I dont want it to let him down :(.
      I dont know what all this means baby or if it means anything. I just know your daddy and I are gonna keep trusting in the Lord. I know everything will work out for His Glory if We do. I know its odd but even though I've never met you I already love you soooo much. I cannot wait to hold you in my arms sweetheart.




Love,
 Mom

     

Home is Where my Heart is and Im too Blessed to be Stressed

      Well Our trip is slowly coming to an end, and man has it been a awesome trip. As I sit here tonight I am like a different woman then the Wore down, over it woman who showed up unannounced two months ago. I must say this trip did everything i hoped it would. I dont even know where to begin other than saying two months ago I would have told you that the ministry takes much more than it gives back and I was at rock bottom and really struggling daily. Now two months later I am excited about heading home. YES I just called Montana HOME!!! And no I have not lost my mind.
      Home is where were together. I call Athens, Tn home because it was my home for 22 years and I will probably always call it home, but I also call Montana home because its where We live. Just like they say "Home is where the Heart is" I find that to be so true and Our hearts are definitely in Hungry Horse, Montana. We have built a life there Im not saying We will be there forever but It will always hold a special place in our hearts and for now its Home.
       When I left Montana 2 months ago my stress level was out the roof. No specific reason just needed a break. I was very lucky that God seen fit to answer my prayer for a break. Now here I sit and all I can think about is the saying " Too Blessed to be Stressed". I couldnt think of a better example of how blessed I am than this....Tonight I had to pack a bunch of clothes to be shipped back to us in Montana. Why you might ask?? Well everytime I come home for a visit my family buys me sooo much stuff. I am not even kidding I have got soooo much clothes this trip its not even funny, and there is absolutely no way it would all be able to fly home with me! So yes im VERY blessed and yes maybe a little spoiled :)
          This trip has helped me get back on track. I am ready to get back to Montana and get to work. Yes, there will be struggles for me in the future. Why?? Because Life is full of struggles but God said "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33  He also said Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.      - Galatians 6:9          We have to hold onto these promises in order to get through the hard times. God will reward us if We do not give up. I choose to keep on keeping on. How about you??
      

Where are you???? and Other Tough Questions

           Well were still in Tennessee Silly. We are busy kiddos at the moment. We are running here and there trying to see everyone and trying to just rest and have some fun. We will be flying back in about 2 weeks    (october 13th). As excited as we are to get back and get back to work, it is hard everytime and that will never change. Although each time does seem to get a little easier for me that is not the case for everyone. I found this to be especially true last night when my Mamaw looked at me and said "Your really going back aren't you?" Then She asked me two tough questions "Do you have to? Do you want to?" My answers were yes were really going back. No I don't always want to, and no I guess technically I don't have to.

           I wanna go back because I love what we do and because i know im needed. Not in a im all that they ABSOLUTELY need me because im so great kinda way but in a I wanna help and do my part kinda way. I wanna go back because I love each child that comes to Beyond Borders for Christ. I wanna go back because I love being a part of Canyon Baptist worship team.
 
             To be 100% honest with you no I dont always wanna go back or even be there for that matter. I don't wanna sound cruel or selfish but as humans We are We just cant help it. As much as I love what we do I would be lying if I said there werent days that I just wanted to go home. There are days I just wanna see my family and there are even days I think about the life Jeremy and I had before We decided to go into missions. What always helps me is this quote "If you found a cure for cancer, wouldnt it be inconceivable to hide it from the rest of mankind? How much more inconceivable to keep silent the cure of the eternal wages of death" - Dave Davidson  We are meant to share no matter if were home or 2400 miles from home and Whether we want to or not.

          Do I have too? Hmm I guess technically the answers no. God gives us the freedom to choose. How though could you say no to the King of Kings? The man who gave you eternal life?

            On July 5th, 2011 We didnt say no even though We could have or even though We might have wanted to. We stepped out on faith and I have never regretted it. God has always provided for us and I have ever confidence that He will continue to bless us and give us vision and understanding for our future No matter where We are.

I thought I was sneaky ....

            Ok as you know I came home in August and surprised ALL my family and friends and I bragged about how sneaky I am, but what I found out yesterday is that there is someone far more sneaky than me!!!!!
           When I came to TN I knew that Eastview Baptist Church was going to MT in september for a mission trip. So I told Jeremy "You should come back with them and surprise everyone." Weeks went by and Jeremy said "I cant there is to much to do here, It's just not gonna work out" One night on the phone Jeremy was talking and He said when We get back from TN, and I was sure I had caught him but he assured me he couldnt come. So the closer it got to september the more I missed Jeremy and I called one night and even talked to him about changing my flight to something sooner. The only reason I didnt is because Judy had already booked her flight to fly back with me on October 13th. Jeremy just kept telling me to hang in there and try to make the best of it. Eastview was leaving Mt on a thursday and on Monday I text Jeremy and basically begged him to come back with them. Again He told me He couldn't and to hang in there. I was so frustrated On one hand I was SOOO HAPPY to be here with family and friends, but on the other I MISSED my husband.

         So Eastview headed back and I gave up on the hope of Jeremy coming with them. I called Jeremy every night as usual but our talks were anything but usual. He would only talk for a few minutes and he constantly said he was tired and had to go before he fell asleep. Finally after a couple days of this I asked him if He was taking something. He acted like He could barely put a sentence together and I suggested He go see a Dr.
         On Sunday September 16th My parents and I went to Eastview for church because they were gonna be talking about the mission trip and showing pictures. After church I was suppose to meet our friend Lisa for lunch. So I was surprised to see Lisa and her husband Joe walk in. mostly because when we made the plans She said it would just be me and her because Joe would be out of town with work and because I didnt know they were coming to church. I was not at all prepared for who stepped in the row with me and said hi JEREMY!!!!! I just stared for a second I could believe it. and then I cried like a baby. I was so HAPPY!!!! Needless to say Judy is not flying back with me October 13th He is. So no I am not the master of all sneakiness but I am married to him!!!!

The Life God planned for you

        Well I have been home 4 weeks and have already seen a huge improvement in my attitude!! Not that I think I ever had a bad one haha :) 
         I am a planner and it drives me crazy that I dont even have the slightest idea what 1 year down the road looks like. Over the last few weeks God has gave me the most calming peace about this. How awesome is it That I am living the life God planned for me!?!? Yes It comes with LOTS of stresses and worries, but then when you pray and ask for vision and understanding  and most of all peace and God gives you just that, It makes it all worth it.
       I can not tell you what the next few years hold for Jeremy and I, but I do know that God promised He would never leave or forsake us and I believe Him. Its a odd feeling to put ALL your trust in someone you have never seen but He tells us in the bible that we can.
       People ask me How could I leave everything and Go somewhere I had never been?? Im still not sure how to answer this except to say it was the hardest thing I've ever done, but that Jeremy and I never walked one step alone. There were days I didnt think I could make it and there were times I knew my strength was gone, and thats when I felt Him the most. I can assure you i'm not worthy to do the ministries I do. The bible says We have  ALL sinned and come short of the glory of God and i'm no different. So I hope I have never gave the impression that I am high and mighty. The truth is Jeremy and I arent "Gods chosen ones" because in Matthew 28 verse 19 God picked us all. He didnt leave anyone out. The question is are you living the life God planned for you???

SNEAKY Girl :)

      Wow where has time went?! I know I have not posted in FOREVER!! But For good reason I have been super busy being sneaky!!! On August the 2nd I started out on my LONG journey home with Lee, Joy, and Amber Swafford. Absolutely NO ONE from home knew!!! I had known for about 2 weeks and boy was it a long 2 weeks. I am NOT a good liar!!

       Let me back track....... I have been stressed and missing family for awhile and although my heart is in Hungry Horse, Montana and I know without a doubt thats where I am meant to be. I was getting more and more frustrated and burnt out by the day. I just needed a break. Those closest to me in Montana could tell although I did my best to hide it. So one night I said a prayer and  I told God that I was desperate and if He could work it out some way I just needed to go home for awhile. God is so FAITHFUL!!! The very next morning Lee and Joy offered to let me ride home with them when they came home in 2 weeks. They told me to pray about it and I said I already have. I decided then and there to surprise my family and friends!!

        On Saturday August 4th I showed up at my moms work and gave her the surprise of her life. Then We went and surprised pretty much my whole family that same day.  My camera tore up and would not even turn on So sadly no pictures, but I will never forget each persons face when I walked in there doors.

         I am so thankful that God answered my prayers but He even went above and beyond what I asked for. When Jeremy and I started planning after We knew I was going We still werent sure how I would get home. We didnt really have the money for a plan ticket. We knew that Eastview Baptist Church was coming out on a mission trip on september 9th. So I told Jeremy maybe I can see if they have room for me. Thats when Jeremy amazed me by saying, "Stephanie Im not sure thats long enough. I know you need a break. You need to spend time with your family and I understand that my family gets to come out here but yours hasnt yet. So I cant relate but I know you NEED this. We will figure out how to pay for a plane ticket" 
   Within a few days, I had a couple come to me and say When do you want to fly back We are paying for your plane ticket. Have I ever mentioned how I am blessed with the most amazing friends!? So I picked october the 13th because I knew if my mother and father in law came that is the week they would come (they came last year in october). I knew if they didnt come I could fly alone if I had too but im not going to have to :) My mother in law bought a ticket for herself and is going with me. Which is a HUGE relief!!!

          So as you can tell I have been a busy lady. I am having the time of my life!!!! Although I miss Jeremy terribly :( But I talk to him daily and He is doing fine. I know that if it werent for God this trip would have never happened. I am so thankful for everyones heart He touched and that they listened to Him and made this possible for me. I will be able to work and help do my part in the ministrys we help with better and will work with a more joyful heart because I was given time off to be with my family. I can never thank everyone enough for filling in for my while I am gone. You all are amazing. Thanks to my husband, Lee and Joy, and Buddie and Fran for realizing I needed this and for making it possible. You ALL are my rocks!!!