Wednesday, July 11, 2012

VBS In VA

We are trying to enjoy being home. Julianna and I were able to go to ICYC with Billy Hayes as director. Brandi Hayes and Stacey Rogers were Julianna’s counselors. They were awesome. I worked in the kitchen. Wow, never really appreciated what cooks do until now.  Cooking dozens of eggs, over 250 hot dogs, over 250 pancakes, my hat goes off to you Darenda Stephens, Amy G., Eric of J’ville “TC”, Christina of Hawaii “George”, Mac “Papa”, Sara Beth, Millie…you all were amazing. So thankful to Billy for an outstanding week. What a shot in the arm! Great lessons, young people loving the word and responding to it….WOW!

We came home early to spend one night in our beds then off to Virginia to help with a VBS. In Harrisonburg the true church is very small and weak. Bob and Tammy Horn have been working with a congregation (Central church of Christ) for some time up there. It was so great to see all the work they had done to decorate the rooms, handmade visuals, posters, food was brought and prepared. The congregation normally has about 40 there on Sunday morning. Each night we had 58 or so there. It was a learning experience and a real joy to be a part of that effort. The children got to me the most. They loved being there. They loved to learn the scriptures and they loved singing “Pharaoh, Pharaoh, let my people go!” We stayed for a whole week and we want to especially thank the Horns for all the food and free room. Anna, you were so gracious to allow us to use your room. If anyone needs any artwork, Westin Horn is fabulous. Please keep Bob and Tammy Horn in your prayers as well as the congregations in that area those who seek to teach and do what the Bible says.

After leaving the Horns we stopped in Newport, TN to see Patrick and Chantelle Swayne. They are in the process of seeking support for their mission work in Singapore. Patrick did a great job preaching, what an inspiration to spread the gospel like we are supposed to. Chantelle is such a strength to him and she is bright light for all of us to learn from. Please join my family in praying for them by name every day and also seriously consider supporting them yourself monthly. Ten dollars, twenty…is all adds up to help. You can have a part in helping others learn about Jesus.

We then made it to Glencoe church of Christ. It was so good to be with them. F.Y.I. It is possible to go to church on Sunday when you are traveling. You have to be determined to put the Lord first and make a few phone calls if you have too. May more members of the Lord’s church not take a vacation from services. God never takes a vacation from helping you.

We made it home and as soon as we opened the door, we knew something was wrong. The air conditioner was making a horrible noise and it was 89 degrees inside. The fan burned up because some wires got caught in it and the AC man couldn’t come out until Monday morning. Cliff and Beth Goodwin offered to let us spend the night with them but we really wanted to spend the night in our own house no matter what. We all took cold shower and slept in one room with one sheet and two fans blowing right on us. When I woke up the next day the repair man was already working and before we knew it we had less money but a cooler house. Thank God for AC.

Julianna and Cameron have been enjoying the summer. They are part of the reading program at the Munford Library and we have been able to see lots of family and friends already. I have seen my sister and Lord willing, I should see my brother next month. We got to see Jim’s sister and her family for several days. I guess we won’t see Jerry and them for a while.

The heat has been bothering Jim and I. I have had to really drink a lot of water to keep from feeling so bad. I am still having more flare ups than I would like. I am just thankful that I have more good days than bad.

Jim has been feeling rough the past week. He has been dizzy and feeling like he is going to pass out more. We go to the doctors on the 23rd. We will be there all day. Blood work, tests, visits with docs, etc. It is the transplant re-evaluation. We will let everyone know what goes on as soon as possible. Thanks for your continued support and cards. We just ask that you keep us in your prayers. Mention us by name. We really appreciate it. When someone goes before the throne of God in prayer and mentions our names, what a privilege. Thank you and May God bless each one of you as you faithfully serve Him.