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!!!

Gods has Great plans for your life.

I haven't wrote to you in awhile sweetheart but its not because I haven't been thinking about you. I think of you daily and what a blessing you will be to your daddy and I. You will be loved by so many. All your family in Tn plus all our wonderful friends here. You don't have a chance baby you WILL be spoiled rotten. You will always be my miracle, my answered prayer from God, and no matter how old you get I'll never forget how I prayed nd longed for you. I wish so badly that I was holding you in my arms right now, but god has a plan for our lives and as hard as its been I am finally t a place now where i can say I trust Him amd actually mean it. Always know that your momma and daddy love you very much but more important never forget how much God loves you. He created you and He has great plans for your life.

The Worlds Greatest Friends

 I am convinced God has blessed me with the best friends in the World, and I am so thankful. The Ministry gets hard well life period gets hard and having friends who you know you can call anytime to talk or to just cry is a necessity . To say your struggling is not a sign of weakness To me it takes great strength and courage to admit. I am thankful that during the hard times I have amazing friends to lean on. I wont name names because some wont want there name on the internet and besides I am human and might forget someone but I just wanted to say that I am honored to have such amazing friends here in Montana. I brag on my family alot but often times not my friends so I just wanted to say I love you ALL and am so THANKFUL for you and ALL you have done and ARE doing :) You rock!!!!

My Friend Joy and Me doing what We do best.....Laughing :)

Are We really getting it??

So I am doing the bible study " Experiencing God" . We are just into our  3rd week but I am already amazed at what im learning and feel that im growing from it already. Anyway it talks alot about God trying to talk to us and were not listening. So of course I get to thinking and I start rememebering stuff and i'm not sure if im looking too deep into it or If maybe God was trying to give me vision along time ago and I just wasnt listening.

 I was a senior in high school and of course everyone was talking about college and what they were going to do with there life and I didnt have a clue. I knew I didnt wanna go to college but other than that I had no plans. But I had this strong feeling that I was not meant to stay in Athens Tn. So As weeks went on and it got to be a few months before graduation I Seriously considered joining the Army. I just had this feeling that I was meant for more than staying in Tn. I didnt know what to do. Well I ended up not joining the Army I just never felt it was completely the right thing to do. So after I graduated I started dating Jeremy and 8 months later I'm married. But all wasnt happily ever after and i secretly dealth with depression. It just all felt wrong and for one I know for a fact my relationship with God was not where it was suppose to be. But I cant help but wonder if the feeling in high school and the depression was all because God was trying to call me into missions. I guess I will never really know the answer. I finally got my relationship with God right and not long after the depression was gone and I remember the moment I really felt God speaking to me about Montana. It was july 2010 and a group from our church had just come back from there mission trip from Hungry Horse. During there presentation I just got the feeling that I was suppose to go there. So I said ok Lord We will go on the mission trip with them next year. I can just imagine How frustrating it must be to God when We arent really getting what He is trying to tell us. Little did we know by the next year when the church came on the mission trip We would be living here.:) The night of the presentation Jeremy even sang a song He wrote about missions called "Go anyway" and its just amazing to see God work. I am so glad We finally got what He was really trying to tell us.  Once We surrendered to Gods call on our lives. It was insane how things started falling together. He had it all planned out for us. It feels great to completely trust Him with our lives. My only regret is that maybe I didnt listen close enough sooner, but I cant give him back my past I can only give him my present and future and I plan to do just that :)

God's Working all around us!!

Gods working all around us but how often are We to busy to miss the blessing of seeing Him at work??
Here is a awesome story about just that.

 So My parents bought this book I cant remember the exact title but its a book for Missionary Parents. Well mostly its about oversea missionaries but still some of it applies to us and our situation. So my Dad read it and now my Mom is reading it but alot of it has been hard for her to get through because She cant really relate to it and as she put it "its boring" haha. But Dad has been telling her it gets better so she is still reading it. So as most everyone knows We left to head here July 5th 2011.The day holds so many sad memories so it was and probably always will be a emotional day for all of us.  So on July 5th (2012)Mom was at work on her lunch break reading the book and she had just enough time to read one more page before time for her to clock back in and this was the page she read

  So See, Lord? My Hands Are Still Open

Nobody said it is easy,

opening our hands in release,

But Jesus said if we trust and obey,

He will give us His peace.

I've struggled with holding too tightly,

knowing that she can't remain,

And, in the process, I finally saw

that I just increased the pain.

I've prayed for protection for so many years,

and Lord, I don't plan to stop now.

I can't keep my daughter away from all harm,

and now I've made a new vow:

To give you our daughter again, like I have

so many times before,

But this time for missions----wherever you want.

I trust you to open the door.

So See, Lord? My hands are still open.

Use us however you choose.

I'm trusting you for tomorrow,

Knowing with you We can't lose.

Thank you for being my Savior and Lord,

and making her your own design.

Keep using her as your witness, and Lord,

keeping loving that daughter of mine.
                                                                                                  ---1990,  Nancy Stoppelkamp

Wow How amazing that She read this poem on July 5th!! So see if she had quit reading it she would have missed These comforting words. There is no doubt that God puts things like this together He knows exactly what We need and when we need it. So keep your eyes open and watch for Him because He is working all around you.

What a Mighty God We serve!!!

 God knows exactly what we need and when we need it. This week it got up into the 90s and boy were we sweating. Our windows in the apartment are casement windows (vertical) So We couldnt get a window air conditioner and fans were not cutting it Jeremy and I both were not getting any sleep at night because We were so HOT!! Well I looked up online and hooray they do make vertical window air conditoners  but BOO!! they are over $500. As Jeremy was talking to some friends tuesday about the hot weather and our vertical windows A friend who is here helping for a few months mentioned getting a window air conditoner and cutting a hole in the wall for it to go in. He even said He would come cut the hole and put it in and everything. After getting approval from Lee We were so excited and then that Friend Slipped us some money and said here I wanna help pay for it. God had a plan all along!! So We get the air conditoner and Lee says hey try measuring the window and see if you flip it horizontal will everything fit that way. It did!!! So We have been so blessed this week!!! No more sleepless nights and no more sweating (in the house). A huge thanks to our Friend for giving us the money and coming and putting it in for us. We could never thank him enough. But mostly a HUGE thanks to God who laid it on his heart to give the money!!! Everytime I walk into this cool apartment I am reminded how much God loves us and how He has provided ALL our needs but He has not stopped there and alot of times He throws in a few wants here and there. What a Mighty God We serve!!!!

One year ago....

One year ago today I left my family and friends all standing in tears as Jeremy and I answered Gods call and started a new chapter in our lives as we headed to Hungry Horse, Montana. As we pulled away we knew in our hearts we were doing the right thing but that didnt stop them from breaking. Now here I sit a year later Yes somedays my heart still breaks and I could probably fill up a ocean by now with the tears ive cried. But God has took care of us and im so thankful. We have made so many friends here and We love each ministry were involved in. As I rode along one year ago wondering what my life was about to be like I can tell you it was nothing like I imagined. Its better!!! God is so faithful and its amazing how awesome He is. He has provided all our needs and In one year completely changed our lives for the better. I am not putting us up on a pedastle by any means but dont ever let the devil tell you your not worthy because thats what He did to us but We pushed past the lies and here we are one year later telling about our ministries and seeing God work in a mighty way here in Hungry Horse, Montana.

I'd give anything.......

Some days id give anything just to walk into Mamaws and sit and talk to her and Pap, Or to go out to dinner with Mom and Dad. I am stuggling lately. Somedays the sacrifice seems to great and I get selfish and wonder why me? Why did I have to give up my whole life? Of course after I have a good cry I feel just awful for even thinking these things. Christ gave the ultimate sacrifice His life!! The truth is I am honored He chose us to come to Hungry Horse Montana. As most everyone knows my passion is for the little guys This week at VBS We had one 3 year old boy who kept being disruptive I was busy with another little girl when I hurt one of the other ladies in our class trying to calm him down as He started to cry I heard him sob "I just wanna sit in your lap" I dont know anything about his home life but the poor little guy just wanted someone to love on him. Well from then on He became my little buddy and everytime you turned around He was up in my lap. And it was through that God reminded me why im here and what one of my jobs is. To love on these kids who dont get that at home. Let me also say dont think im connecting this statement with the little girl im gonna be keeping She is very much loved and took care of. But thats not the case with a big majority of these kids in the community. So when I am having a bad day and just wanna go home God always brings a childs face into my mind and reminds me my purpose. We all have a purpose It can even be as simple as being there for the little kids. There are no little jobs. i have all eternity to spend with my family . My goal is to make sure these little guys are there too.

Hungry Horse Dam

Hungry Horse Dam is an arch dam on the South Fork Flathead River in the Rocky Mountains of the U.S. state of Montana. It is located in Flathead National Forest, in Flathead County, about 15 miles (24 km) south of the west entrance to Glacier National Park, 9 miles (14 km) southeast of Columbia Falls, and 20 miles (32 km) northeast of Kalispell.

 At 564 feet (172 m) in height, the dam was the third largest dam, and second highest concrete dam, in the world at the time of its completion in 1953,^[2] with a volume of 3,100,000 cubic yards (2,400,000 m³).^[3] The dam's spillway is the highest morning glory structure in the world.^[3] The spillway is controlled by a 64-by-12-foot (20 by 3.7 m) ring gate.<sup>[1]

These are pictures Jeremy took of the water flowing over into the Glory Hole and coming out the other side. 
This is a very rare event that even alot of locals have never seen (until now ) The water is too high and thats why this is happening.</sup>  

 

Wow Week 2012

 This was our first wow week  (VBS) last year We werent even here yet. Wow week is AWESOME!!!! A huge thanks to the churches that came and put this on and made Wow Week possible!!!! I helped in the  preK class which was ages 2-4. We had a  average of 12 each day so it was chaos but TONS of fun. We had a really great group Some were more rowdy than others but thats to be expected with kids who arent even in school yet. On friday the churches that come to put on Wow Week  pay to take  the kids (5 and up) to the water park. It was a awesome day and so much fun. The wind was blowing and the sun never really made it out but the kids and a few adults (of course My Jeremy) didnt care and drove right in no matter how cold the water was!   I know the kids had a great week and are already looking forward to next year. I know I am :)

Yikes

So I try to keep Mollys poop picked up out of the yard because nothing makes me madder than getting poop on my shoe!! So I was going behind her everytime she went but as a missionary im always trying to think of ways to save money and the doogy bags seem a waste to just put a little in So i have been only cleaning the yard once a week and filling
 up a hole bag that way. So today I go out because its sunny so I figure I better go while I got a chance and so im minding my own business when I walk right up on 2 snakes.  Yikes!!  So I of course am scared and run to the porch and then I think Jeremy will never believe me so what do i do Of course I go back over to get a picture. After I take and send the picture thats when I discover 2 more piles along the side of the apartment so that was 3 piles of 2 so 6 altogether. Needless to say the poop may pile up for awhile!!!!!

Stephanies Story

So tell me Stephanies story, These were the words I heard just earlier tonight. I had never ever been asked in quite this way before. Sure people ask where im from? Or how I ended up in Montana? Or How I knew God called me here? But all those are so direct and to the point I was taken a little off guard and unsure of what to say when asked to tell my story It must have shown because the person then said ya know How'd you and your husband met, how long you been married, when did you move to Montana. Of course then I started spouting off answers left and right. Why had I had so much trouble the first time. I guess the answer is because I have never really thought about it. Have you?? We all have a story, Think about it whats your story. I ask you to at least think about it but I challenge you to write it down I think you'll be amazed about how accomplished you'll feel when your done and you'll realized how truly blessed you are. My Life changed because Someone I had just met took at interest in Me and my life and asked about my story.

Stephanies Story

 My story is a story of Grace, Hope, and Wonder. I'm from a small town called Athens, Tn. I was raised right there in the bible belt. Both my parents are christians. They raised me right and taught me to respect others as well as myself. I  was saved at 9 years old but of course in my teen years I strayed from God. I did what I wanted and went to church on sunday that was good enough right? I mean I was already saved. Of course thats absolutely wrong. So you can read alot of this in My Testimony post here. Of course my testimony is a huge part of my story. I got married when I was 19 and I am grateful to have found my soulmate at such a young age you can read about our love story hereon my blog too. I Finally got back on track with God and realized how wonderful life can be when you have a meaningful relationship with him. Life was great. We had a beautiful house, Jeremy had a good paying job, and we absolutely loved our church and church family. Then Life as we knew it changed forever. You can read about that here . So When God called us to Montana We were terrified and still are because our future is so unknown. So Grace is a huge part of my story because   God showed extreme Grace to us all when He sent his only son to die. Not only that but He forgave me over and over when I strayed from Him. My story is a story of Hope because I now have hope like I have never known and with Jesus in our lives We all have that Hope. My story is a story of wonder  because there is so much unknown in our future. I have no idea what 1 year looks like little on 5 or 10. I wonder what my future will be like but I have hope that everything will be fine because of Gods extreme Grace. This is Stephanies Story.

This week is Wow Week

This coming up week is Wow Week (Vacation Bible School). We have a mission team who comes and puts this on every year. Which is a huge blessing with the summer food program it would be too much to tackle this year little on every other year. Last year We werent here yet for Wow Week So We are excited to see what its like. Sunday afternoon is the kickoff at Canyon Elementary School We will have the blow up jumping houses for the kids and idk what else lol but im sure it will be fun. Then M-F is from 10-3 and all the kids will be coming to eat at the summer Food Program. We cannot wait to help anyway We can. Also as you know our goal for the summer food program is at least 50 and today we hit 48 :) We are very excited and cannot wait to see the big numbers during wow week.Other than that not much going on lately just staying very busy and enjoying the warm weather. Please continue to pray for us and the ministries were invovlved in here in Montana.

I have been dreaming of you lately. In my dream im just taking care of you and im just so happy! But i can never see your face I guess thats cause I have no idea what you'll look like. I cannot even begin to imagine you! I hope you are a complete mixture of us both:) Every month I wonder if this could be the month I conceive you. I'll admit I have drove myself crazy over the years making myself think I have every pregnancy symptom ever heard of. Its rediculous I know. I set myself up for alot of heartache because of it. Only since I have been in Montana have I completely put my trust in God and His timing and its like a weight was lifted off me. See sweetheart We never have to go through life alone because God will go with us every step of the way if we'll only let him but the choice is ours. I cannot wait to teach you all about Jesus and I pray that the day will come that I will get to see you accept Him as your Lord and Savior I cannot wait until you come into this world. I pray for patience while im waiting and understanding I know you are gonna be so worth the wait. I love you so much Love, Mommy

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you. Philippians 1:3

We had a great first week at the summer food program. A BIG thanks to everyone who helped. But a VERY special thanks to Colonial View  Baptist Church  from Cookville Tn for coming out and helping us this week. They were the BEST!!! They cooked Jeremy and I breakfast and dinner daily. We played cards nightly and just had a great time. Mostly what We did when we werent working Ok even when We were working was laugh!!! This group is HILARIOUS!!!!! From the Moment I met them I was cracking up!!! It only took a week but they all already have a special place in our hearts. Thanks again guys!!

I Also have a new BFF (Best Friend Forever) Dink and I hit it off from day one. We have laughed till We cried many days this week :) I sure will miss him!!!

It has begun.....

The summer food program is in full swing!!! It has been a crazy first couple of days but all has worked out and went well. We have a group here this week from Cookville, TN helping so we are doing fine help wise Hopefully next week when they head home We will have plenty of help too.  Please pray for that!! We had 22 on monday and 26 on tuesday Which for our first week we thought was pretty good. We hope to see this summer food program grow and be very successful but if We feed one hungry child who wouldnt have gotten lunch otherwise thats a success in our eyes. Is it hard work? Yes you bet it is but is it worth it? absolutely. Tonight which is wednesday We will be staying all the way through to our Beyond Borders for Christ service So it is gonna be a long day. We know We will be tired but We also know were doing it all for the right reason, The kids of this community are the reason and Yes they are so worth it!!! Anyway gotta go have breakfast with this mission team they have been awesome and We have eaten with them every meal since they got here :) We will be very sad to see them leave, But thats the life We live and people are in and out of it constantly Its always hello goodbye. But I am so thankful for all the individuals I have met Some I may never see again but I know God made there path and mine cross for a reason and even though its difficult its worth every minute, every conversation,every hello and every hug goodbye. I am Thankful for it all!!!

Our schedule

Wow time sure flies Monday is the 11th and the summer food program starts. We are ready as were gonna get. Its gonna be so much work but it will be worth it to see those sweet kids get a good meal that they might not otherwise get. As far as the  other ministries were involved in go we will be going at all of them full force as well.

What are the Ministrys were involved in???

• Sunday Jeremy and I are the worship leaders So We do all of the worship songs sunday morning and night. I also teach the k-3rd sunday school class 

•  Monday As of right now this is our off day :)

• Tuesday We have our adult bible study We eat at 6 and bible study is from 7-8. Jeremy and I along with Lee and Joy and Fran meet in the afternoon to prepare the meal. Every 2nd and 4th tuesday We volunteer at our local food bank from 7am-12pm

• Wednesday We have Beyond Borders for Christ at 6. Jeremy has to go early to practice for the worship, and Lee Joy and I prepare the meal before the service. I also have a class for 3 and under. Check out my post called Beyond Borders for Christ to see what its all about!!!

• Thursday This is also a off day for us:)

•  Friday We have worship practice at 2. Jeremy goes to a mens bible study at Hungry Horse Chapel at 7

•  Saturday Jeremy teaches a guitar class from 12-1 and then we have worship practice at 1. Then We have to make sure we have powerpoints and everything else ready for sunday morning.

Of course these are all our ministrys through the year and were still not quite sure which days We will be working at the school for the summer food program. Also when summers over is when I will start my babysitting job M-F. So we are and will continue to be very busy, but We love what We do here in Hungry Horse Montana and are happy God called us here. Even when hard times come We know that God has a purpose for our lives and We are here for a reason. We have no idea how long We will be here And always having this in the back of your mind makes you so much more mindful to make everyday count., And to make time for fun with friends as often as possible. We are so blessed and cannot wait to see what God has in store for our future.

My Miracle

Baby I almost feel guilty that you are gonna enter this world as a missionaries child. I know God called us into this and I know that He will take care of us. But you didnt chose this baby and it breaks my heart to know that you may never know what its like to live right down the road from your grandparents. You may never get to truly know alot of mommy and daddys friends from Oak Grove or Clear Springs and neither maybe the church you grow up in. I had all these things and It hurts to know that I have no idea where We will be when you come along. So much of the future is unknown. But one things for sure no matter where We are when you come into this world you will know so much love and im sure you will be spoiled rotten and will always be taken care of even if daddy and I have to do without. You will always know who Jesus is and how much He loves you. I cannot wait until the day I can hold you in my arms I love you already baby Even if I dont even know you yet. You will always be my miracle.
Love Mommy

Rain rain rain go away, funny story, and excitment about what God is doing in Montana

Wow its been raining for what feels like forever!! Yesterday while driving home Jeremy and I saw the most beautiful rainbow. It was coming straight up from a mountain. Made me think of my last post about how God will not break His promises to us. So even though We havent seen many bright sunny hot days yet summer is definitely here. The reason I know is because we are crazy busy and we havent even started the summer food program yet. I am not complaining I am thankful for all the ministries God is allowing us to do. Maybe We can rest when summers over :) Ha thats when my babysitting job begins and by then Alayah will be pulling up and crawling around everywhere. I know what your thinking wow how are you adding that to everything else you do. My answer is I cant wait :) and I am so excited about it and even if I have to cook for tuesday and wednesday and practice on fridays with a baby on my hip Ill do it because it makes me happy. Funny story.....on friday Some of us women were meeting at the church to plan and discuss our menu for the summer food program. So I changed and feed Alayah and asked Jeremy if he thought he could handle watching her. ( I knew He could She was babbling and happy) He said ok I said ok just bring her to me or just text me and ill come down here. so upstairs I went I was in The meeting probably about 30 minutes when I got a text saying " she just keeps crying and idk what to do" So i hurried downstairs and found them sitting in the recliner when I came in the room she reached for me :) Before babies can talk when they reach for you to me its like hearing them say I love you. Anyway so as im picking her up i say whats wrong and then I figured it out and I said well your stinky and she starts smiling like wow im glad someone figured it out. So Idk if Jeremy really didnt know or just didnt wanna change her. But it just was funny to me. So anyway just wanted to check in and let everyone know We miss them and Havent forgot them but the letters and calls might be fewer these next few months because We are gonna be lucky to get sleep :) But We are very excited about EVERYTHING God is doing in Montana.