"Lucky" 13

13 years ago I married the man of my dreams!

There's a song with the words "when God made you He must've been thinking about me" and that's exactly how I feel!

It does seem impossible that it's been 13 years as it feels like a life time -- in a good way!

What we have been through in these past 13 years most couples don't go through in a life time but each step has been God-guided and each step has brought us closer together and closer to Him.

Happy Anniversary Monty! You are the love of my life and I thank God for your faith, your strength, your steadiness, your support, your belief in me, your compassion and your love!

May God bless us with "umpteen" more years together!

Until next time . . . "and two shall become one." Susan and Monty

He doesn't even like horseback riding!







13 years ago today I married the man of my dreams!







What took God so long?







I first met Monty while I was managing a local employment agency that specialized in construction labor. One of the few things I did know about him was that he was quite a few years younger than me and surely he had a girl friend.







He was a seasonal worker so when December of 1997 came around I knew he would be off work for the winter and thus picking up his last check in early January. The thought of not being able to see him for the winter months hurt my heart. But --- for those of you who know me --- you won't believe this --- but I was speechless when he entered the room and just couldn't bring myself to say anything to him.

34 Years Ago

Hard to believe that much time has passed! Where oh where does it go?

It was 34 years ago yesterday that Elvis Presley died! Now I am far from an Elvis fan so how do I not only remember the day but how many years it's been?

The night that he died I was in the hospital in a bed in a waiting room area because there were no rooms available. I was 3 weeks past my due date and more than miserable. See, my first baby (my son) had weighed in at 10 and 1/2 pounds less than 2 years before and I was terrified. This time they had done a pelvic xray and laughed when they told me "you don't have room for a 5 pounder!" I wondered where in the world they had been almost 2 years before!

I was terrified and so anxious as this time I was scheduled for a c-section the next morning. This was a new plan that only came about a few days before so no time to really prepare. I was to come in the night before and . . . well, that was about all I knew. So I was there and I was waiting. The area I was in had no TV so I had no idea until the next day that the big news was Elvis had died.

The next morning I was prepped for surgery and the last thing I remember was someone telling me to count backwards from 99. I remember saying 98 and that's it!

The main thing running through my mind was "is it a boy or a girl?" See, that was in the dark ages before anyone knew what they were having until it was born!

All my life I had dreamed of some day having a little dark haired girl. But for some reason I didn't think it was possible for me. Don't ask me why -- it was just me.

But God . . .

I woke up in the recovery room with a nurse telling me "it's a girl -- a little dark haired girl." Even through the groggy head I understood but still thought she must be mistaken. I needed to see it to believe it -- sound familiar?

When I saw her I was thrilled beyond description! She was a girl and she did have dark hair, black hair! And she was beautiful! No red marks on her face from forceps, no blue skin from lack of oxygen, just beauty like I had never seen. Perfect!

I felt fine and we were dismissed in a shorter amount of time than when my son was born.

It didn't take long for her dark hair to start changing -- to the blondest blonde I think I'd ever seen!

She was a quiet little baby who slept most of the time. She was content to sit in her baby chair and watch the world go by.

As she grew it became evident that she had a mind of her own and knew exactly what she wanted. She always wanted to wear dresses and could be outside all day and come in spotless! The elderly neighbor next door was in awe!

She excelled in school and never had to be told to do her homework. She actually seemed to enjoy studying. She maintained an A average all through school, even while cheerleading from middle school through graduation from high school.

When it came time for college she wanted to major in health administration and maybe manage a hospital. But as time went on she realized she wanted more, she wanted a law degree. I knew from experience that when she set her mind to something it was made up -- and no one could change it so being a lawyer might just be her calling in life.

Calling? An understatement!

She married her high school sweetheart, graduated with honors, passed the bar exam on her first try and got a job with one of the best law firms in the area.

She had 2 children and made partner in that firm within her first 7 years there. When the firm decided to separate in the fall of last year she and some of the other partners made the decision to go out on their own and create a new firm. Within the first 4 months they were so successful they had to hire 2 additional attorneys.

Yesterday she took her 6 year old son to his first day of all day kindergarten and her 3 year old daughter to her first day of preschool. Is that possible? I was just taking my kids a few years ago -- or it seems!?

They are currently building a new home and should be moved in around Thanksgiving.

All during her 34 years there has always been this thought in my mind -- no matter what was happening, no how many "detours" our family life took, no matter how bad or good things were, I always knew, and said aloud many times, "Stacy will be okay -- she'd the strong one!"

God gifted her with an inner strength and determination that I think is unsurpassable! I have laughed over the years and said I would like to be in the courtroom the day she loses a case as I've yet to see anyone win an argument with her! She uses the gift God gave her and won't waste a single second of it!

A wife, a mother, a lawyer, a home maker and home builder, a helper for the voiceless and an amazing woman!

But most of all --- she's my daughter and I am so proud of her and love her deeply!

Happy Birthday Stacy! May God continue to bless and keep you as He has promised! I am honored to be your mother!

Until next time . . . hug your kids today! No matter how old they are! Susan and Monty

Volunteers --- are you ready?

Divine appointments -- that's what she prayed for today! Divine they were!





Life giving divine appointments that weren't planned at all -- but they were in God's plan all along!





Please allow me to introduce Michael to you. Michael attends the church in Bedford where I go to Bible study each week. That means I haven't known him all that long. But today . . .





Michael is in a wheel chair -- he's been in it for the past 17 years. I don't know how old Michael is but I would bet he isn't 40 -- which means the motorcycle accident he was in that put him in this wheel chair happened in his late teens or early 20's. His survival depends on disability only -- imagine!





Every single week Michael is at Bible study and every Sunday he's at church. I watch him pull up in his rather elderly Ford truck, open the driver's door, somehow spin himself around and grab his wheel chair out of the bed of the truck and struggle to get seated before closing the truck door. He has some pretty amazing upper body strength.





A few weeks ago Michael was excited to tell us he was able to purchase a "newer" mobile home. He purchased it for a dollar! Yes, one dollar! But . . . it needed alot of work!





After Bible study today I was so very hungry so I stopped to get something to eat before coming home to have some blood work done. As I was eating 2 other Bible study women came in and I asked them to join me. We started talking and the subject of Michael came up. He needed someone to relocate this "new" trailer to his current location. Knowing that Monty does this sort of thing they asked me. All I could say was that we would see what we could do, make some calls and such.





During the cource of the conversation I learned about how Michael has been living over the past years. Not to be cruel but in this day and age I think most of us have better accomodations for our pets!





The 3 of us decided to call Michael and see if we could go and see this "new" trailer. Since restoring them is what Monty and I do in disaster relief we do know a thing or two about them. We called, he met us and off we went.





When we pulled up I will admit thinking that it was in alot better shape than I had pictured. After all, paying one doller -- my expectations weren't very high.





The exterior is in good shape. The interior --- it WILL be in super shape when we get finished and God sets free all the miracles He has in store!





The floors need gutted, the walls need gutted and most of the ceilings need gutted. The kitchen cabinets must go, the 2 bathtubs need to go, there are no toilets (thankfully), a wall needs removed to allow Michael wheel chair access to what will be his bathroom and both entry doors need replaced.





Impossible? No way! As I went through and looked and measured and thought and planned and felt like I came to life I realized --- some wouldn't classify this as a "disaster" by Webster's definition but I know as well as I know anything God has called me to help rebuild this trailer and in doing so help Michael build a life!





So here I am . . . asking for volunteers to jump on board with this project. The trailer is being moved this Thursday (someone already volunteered to do it before I could even talk to Monty) and after getting it blocked and anchored it's ready to start gutting.





The VERY first thing we will need done is the construction of a ramp so Michael can get in and out as he wants to be as hands on as possible. I asked him to make trips to Lowes to start looking at flooring, cabinets and counter tops as I KNOW the funding will come! God has promised and I choose to stand on that promise!





I have been blessed to see and experience and feel the miracles and blessings that God pours forth in times and situations like this! I want Michael to see and experience and feel the love of Jesus pouring forth through all the volunteers who will come and be the hands, feet and heart of Jesus for him!





Won't you think about it? If you are coming for a day --- thank you!


If you are coming for a week-- we will house you and make sure you have a wonderful week of work and fellowship and life changing miracles!





Michael, hang on as God is about to open doors (literally) for you and show you things as never before!





Pastor Martie challenged us this morning to stand up and take hold of God's promises. She said we need to speak as if things already are, to not settle for lack, to expect the best! The 3 of us women today took that literally and are ready to go!





As we pulled out of Michael's driveway I saw a new Michael --- already!





Let's get on board and make this happen as quickly as possible!





Get ahold of me and let me know when you are coming to help!





Until next time . . . what an awesome God we serve!!!!! Susan and Monty

Indy Tragedy

By now I'm sure you've heard of the Indiana State Fair tragedy. The stage collapsed during a thunderstorm on Saturday night and 5 people were killed along with numerous others injured.

It was a freak accident and caused the fair to be closed yesterday. Although it has reopened today all further scheduled concerts have been cancelled.

Would you join us in prayers for the family members who have lost a loved one and for those still recovering, whether physically or emotionally?

The TV coverage continues to talk about how people came together to help, how some folks actually turned around and headed towards the stage instead of away -- just to start helping others. The reporters seem shocked by these actions --- and yet Monty and I have seen this continually over the years!

We know how God reaches in at our most desperate moments and touches our hearts -- your hearts -- with the desire to be His hands and His feet!

Our deepest gratitude to ALL of you who have volunteered over the years! You turned toward the need and not away, you opened your hearts and extended your hands to those who just needed someone to care, someone to show them God's love.

Monty and I look forward to working with all of you again, wherever and whenever God plans.

In the meantime, please pray for healing, for peace and for comfort for all.

Until next time . . . count your blessings today! It will take you all day!!!! Susan and Monty

Yes --- I CAN run!

For years I have had the same thought as Forest Gump --- "my runnin' days are over" --- until today!

I was mowing my second yard when I bumped the mower into a nest of ground hornets! They were NOT happy with me and let me know in a BIG way! First my leg, then my hand and finally my face! It's a miracle I don't have more stings as when I finally looked down at myself I was covered with hornets!

At that second I remembered what my 10 years in pest control husband told me a long time ago. "If you run into hornets -- just run as fast as you can for as long as you can." Guess what, my runnin' days are NOT over after all!!!!! I was able to outrun them and after screaming loud enough to bring the homeower outside they finally went back into their hole and another neighbor was on his way with gasoline to give those hornets a good "bath."

One of the perils of mowing yards for the summer! And I did pick up my 9th one last night so I don't look at stopping anytime soon!

But I will be watching a bit closer from now on.

Until next time . . . what in the world can stop the stinging sensation? Susan and Monty

Continual preparation

The truck is now fixed and looks really good. Even though the repair shop said the color of the truck isn't really white and they did what they could to color match -- we can't tell the difference!

Now we await the check for the repairs on the trailer. The insurance company said it should be here this week so . . .

Then both will be repaired and road ready.

Our next step is to uncover the camper and check it over making sure it's also ready. It's been covered the entire winter and protected from the elements. It should be just fine as you remember that it was nearly all rebuilt for us last summer and better than new now. I still have to set up the bed but that can wait.

We keep our eyes on the weather, mostly the hurricane center's website as it's really accurate and tells us much more than our local news. Funny how different the weather coverages are along the coast.

Monty continues rebuilding mobile homes and has one nearly ready for the homeowner to move in. Should be next week. He's down to priming and painting and may need to bring in his "free labor" === me! I love to paint and he's so good at the cut in that it makes the rolling easy and since that's what I like to do. See how we make such a great pair and work so well together! :)

This morning I used some creativity and got rid of a quite nasty looking tree in our side yard. I hooked the rope around the tree and then to my truck and with some gas to the pedal it snapped off right at the ground! Monty was surprised when he came home, said the tree was too big to do that but -- hey -- I got it done!

I found some grasses that will come up each year and won't need much care so I replaced the tree with a few of those and even made a row across the side yard to block an "unsightly" neighbor's yard. The grasses were marked way down at the store so just my price. I had to use the hose to soften the ground before digging since it's so dry here. It was an all day project but it's done and looks much better.

We do have a special prayer request. Our neighbor is in the hospital. Paul is 85 years old and fell the other night. He has been diagnosed with a compression fracture in his low back and isn't doing very well. His spirits are very low, he isn't eating and must do well with therapy or face surgery. His wife is more than a bit concerned and asked that we put out a prayer request. Once again, thanks to all of you who not only hold us up in prayer but our family, friends and whoever we ask you to pray for!

Until next time . . . lets all be thankful for our health! Susan and Monty

Almost ready!

Our newly designed IGO Disaster Relief tshirts should go to press early next week.

We are really excited about this and hope to use them as a fund raiser!

As soon as we have it ready I will post pictures of both the front and back so you can see for yourselves and order one -- or two -- or more!

Every relief organization is always recognized by their shirts and since we are watching the weather and making every preparation we can to be ready to go --- these shirts will be our "uniform" daily and we hope will be an awesome fund raiser as well.

Stay tuned --- and don't forget to thank God for all your blessings in church tomorrow!

Until next time . . . love to all. Susan and Monty

Power "preparing"?

First of all, Mary is doing much better. We covered her with some heavy duty prayers at Bible study on Tuesday morning and from the sounds of things (her on Facebook) she is doing exactly what she needs to do to stop satan's attacks! Please keep praying for her as school doesn't start for about 2 weeks and we all know just how relentless satan can be!

Monty is nearing the completion of the mobile home he has been rebuilding these past few weeks. The new owner loves to stop by and check on his progress. She is ready to go and he's ready to be done!

Today was my powerwashing day. I had planned on doing Ms Betty's mobile home and when I got in the swing of it I did our whole house after doing hers! Yes, I am nuts and yes, more than a bit tired but our white vinyl siding is once again white! It's things like this that just don't get done when we are out in the field and with this hurricane season bearing down on us I just figured . . .

Speaking of which, seems like tropical storm Emily has dissolved and will only bring the threat of some heavy rains. Praise God!

And speaking of rains --- we tied the only existing record for consecutive days of 90 degrees or higher == 19 in a row! And believe it or not tomorrow is forecast to be a high of 89! I think I might need a sweatshirt! :)

Tomorrow I have an appointment with the store who is helping us design our new IGO Disaster Relief tshirts! Every disaster organization is known by their shirts and Monty came up with a great idea and James turned it into a design. The back has the logo just like our truck magnets (you can look back and see pics) and the front has an arrow across the chest area with the top line saying "IGO" and underneath printed in the arrow "where He sends me." We will work on colors tomorrow and hopefully get things nailed down.

If you would like to purchase a shirt just let me know. I don't know the cost yet but will let you know if you're interested. I will put a pic on here as soon as I can.

Until next time . . . blessings to all. Susan and Monty

She's struggling

We are approaching a record of days in the 90's and I just had to post a winter scene to remind myself (and others) that here in Indiana the seasons change rather quickly so . . .

I just had a "conversation" with Mary via Facebook and wanted to ask that we all strengthen our prayers for her. She is feeling a bit rough after her emergency appendectomy a couple of weeks ago and hasn't gotten much of an appetite back yet. Her host family is pushing food and she isn't up to very much yet so . . .

She is also struggling as she hasn't started teaching at the university yet and so time can be a bit long! She is feeling very alone right now and needs to know we are all thinking of her and praying for her.

Remember that she has her own blog ---- www.maryenecuador.blogspot.com and it would be awesome if you could leave her a positive comment. An uplifting scripture would be great! She doesn't have to know you -- she just needs to know we care.

Life in missions can be tough at times and yes, lonely. We are away from family and most everything familar to us. Yes, it's exciting but satan is always on the lookout for a way to jump in and charge our emotions! Let's use the Word and send satan packing!!!!

Until next time . . . blessings to all. Susan and Monty

Happy birthday Jordan

8 years ago a very special little boy was born. His mother had just showed up at our church the Sunday before and I remember meeting her and telling her that if she didn't give birth soon she just might pop. She smiled and agreed and within the week Jordan was born.

Jordan's mother had come from a difficult past and was doing what she could to get her life straightened out for her new role as a mother. She wasn't a teenager, she had "lived" a life and as they say "been around the block a few times". She was living at our local Hannah House, a maternity home right next door to the Crisis Pregnancy Center.

When she returned to church she was carrying the cutest little boy I think I had ever seen! I sat with her a few minutes and she shared where she was living and that she was going to be working on Saturdays at the local sandwich shop across the street from Hannah House (the girls are encouraged to work after their babies are born). I offered to babysit if she needed someone and she said most of the time the other residents will help in babysitting but would call if she needed me.

Jordan ended up being our "Saturday baby" most weekends. He was such a joy and went with us wherever we were going that day. We would pick up Mom and take her to work, keep him until she was off and then pick her up again and take her home.

We all got to know one another very well. My youngest daughter, Lindsay, had a homework assignment in her photography class and so we took Jordan to the park and got some fantastic shots.

All through the years we have stayed in touch. Jordan's mom has no family and we have become a sort of replacement. It's been such a joy to us and even though we've been gone for a few of his birthdays we remember.

Last year I even got to share in his birthday cake and watch him put together a quite challenging Lego project. This year he and mom are spending the day at the fair and the park tomorrow. We will get together for a birthday lunch sometime this week.

Why do I write about this? Jordan's mother is an amazing lady in my eyes! From the day he was born she has turned her life around, lived every moment for him. She works full time and doesn't have a car. She takes a city bus that causes her to be in transit for nearly an hour. Her work is about a mile away! She donates plasma twice a week just so she can have a bit of extra to do things for him. They don't have TV, they get free movies from the library. They don't eat out, they don't go to movies, they don't have all the "things" that we have.

But . . . they have each other. They have unconditional love and you only have to be around them for a minute to realize and see it. He is her priority and no matter what -- she is doing the best she can to raise him properly. He has manners, he has rules, he has chores, he has love!

So today --- I not only say Happy 8th Birthday Jordan --- I say "good job Jordan's mom!" You are an inspiration for every mother and I pray God's richest blessings on you both!

Until next time . . . no further updates on Mary so we must go to the old saying "no news is good news" and don't forget to include her in your prayers!

Enjoy thanking God for all your blessings when you attend church tomorrow!

Susan and Monty

Pray for Mary

Just got word that Mary, our IGO school graduate who arrived in Ecuador for her mission of teaching English at the university had to have emergency surgery last night for her appendix! It nearly ruptured and although she is doing okay I can't imagine how lonely it would be to be in the hospital in another country with no family nearby!

Also, we got word yesterday that one of the Ecuadorian pastors was attacked and nearly beaten to death! This is the pastor who is dedicating his life to reaching the people living in the mountains and jungles.

God has some amazing plans and blessings for both of these dedicated and obedient missionaries. That's why satan is trying to "take them out" in the literal sense!

Let's all band together and saturate them in prayers! satan will not succeed!

Until next time . . . blessings and healing to you, Mary! We love you! Susan and Monty

The Results

What an incredible day! She took FIRST PLACE!!!!! Thank you for the prayers!

You can see why! Okay --- I am her mom and I can say that! :)

You can also see the first thing she did when the final evening show was over --- drink water, lots of water! That's one of the toughest things the competitors must do -- limit their liquid intake. No, I don't know all the science behind what they do but I know she was enjoying every drop!

It was humbling to watch and know the "behind the scenes" dedication and work and courage it took for each one of those competitors to get there!

This morning's message was more timely than Pastor Dave's son (who is filling in while his dad is taking a much needed break) knew! His final words to us; "be strong, be courageous, do the work!" That's exactly what my daughter has done! She has been strong when being weak would have been the easy way and the more comfortable way. She has been courageous when courage was costly. She has done the work and seen the results! God has given her a gift and she is using that gift to reach out and help others, to show them that with strength, courage and "doing" you CAN succeed! She even had clients that she is training come to the show yesterday! I loved it when she left the conversation going on between us, her sister, her niece and her fiancee and literally ran to greet and thank one of her clients for coming! She has a real heart for them, a true passion to help and the strength and courage to do what it takes, sacrifice what it takes, and to give of herself when it would be easier to sit back and enjoy the results herself!

She is my daughter -- I love her (obviously), but most of all I love her obedience to the calling God has placed on her life!

To D.A. (who preached this morning) -- you have no idea just how God was using you this morning! The smile on your face showed the joy of the Lord shining right through you -- your obedience to break out in a solo song is REAL strength and courage and the example of "doing the work." Thanks for telling us all what we needed to hear!

Another extension of that message ---- we have a new family in our church --- from India and although they have only been in our country for 3 or 4 weeks they have been in our church each Sunday. Monty has gotten to know them a bit and when we saw them walking home from church last week in the heat he decided to ask them about their transportation this morning. They said they had no transportation and were looking for a couple of used bicycles. Monty came to me and said we were going to go to Walmart after church and purchase a bike and take it to them this afternoon.

Now we don't have the money to do such a thing but we've learned that God holds all our finances anyway! We decided to ask a couple of friends if they knew of anyone who had a bike so we could come up with more than 1. Surprise! Monetary donations came in and one man spoke up and said he would go with us and purchase a 2nd bike!

I decided to ask one more friend who was just finishing a conversation with the Indian family. His face lit up like a lightbulb and said his neighbor had just asked him yesterday if he knew of anyone who would like bikes as he and his wife have sold their home and are going into RVing full time.

So . . . within a few hours Monty and I had not 1, not 2, not 3 but 4 bikes loaded in the truck and were headed for a surprise delivery. And . . . the couple who donated them also has a beautiful dining room set to donate to them and wanted us to see if there was anything else they could use!

Isn't it amazing how God can surpass our wildest dreams if we just "be strong, be courageous and do the work" of being obedient??!!

It was an amazing day yesterday! It was an amazing day today!

I wonder how many amazing days we could all have if we would just "be strong, be courageous and do the work?"

To my daughter, Lindsay --- congratulations! You ARE strong, you ARE courageous and you DO the work! You've earned the blessings!!!

Until next time . . . what amazing blessing is awaiting you? Susan and Monty

Better

Feeling better today. Still pounding liquids and quite tired but improving.
The temperatures here actually hit 100 yesterday -- the first time in years and years and years!
We are staying inside, Monty isn't working today, and resting.
Tomorrow is another fitness show for my daughter, Lindsay. Please keep her in your prayers. Her goal is to place in the top 3 this time --- I have no doubt she will --- they need me on the panel of judges!! :)
Hope you all have a safe and blessed weekend.
Until next time . . . aren't we thankful God is a healing God? I am! Susan and Monty

The salvation of IV's

They say we learn the most from our mistakes --- well . . .

I started mowing yesterday at 8am, only had one full yard and the front of another. Drank a gallon of water in the 90 minutes it took to complete both. A neighbor came over and we sat on the front porch and visited for another hour. I then decided to go and check on Monty as he was skirting a trailer in this heat and I wanted to make sure he was okay.

Grabbed a to-go cheeseburger, came home and puttered around with a couple more things (small) outside and then came in to shower. Then --- it hit me like a brick wall. The dizziness, the nausea, the inability to sweat. I immediately started drinking the Pedialite Monty brought home the night before. He came home early, showered and was napping when I realized this was going downhill fast. My trips to the bathroom started and then the chills. It was time to head to the doctor.

We have a wonderful walk in clinic less than a mile from us so away we went. By this time it was difficult to walk and keep my balance and I was shaking as if it was below zero! They knew what do do immediately and we got started. They pumped one liter of fluids in, checked my bloodwork and realized my sodium was still critically low so they pumped another liter in with some medication in that one.

It took awhile but after the second liter I could feel a difference. Balance was coming back and the chills were subsiding. It was now okay for me to go home. By this time it was after 8pm so we ordered a pizza and within the hour I was in bed. Exhausted.

I did sleep very well and maybe due to some of the meds they infused but atleast I slept.

LESSON LEARNED!!!!

No more mowing in this kind of weather, no matter how early I get started. I just cannot tolerate the heat like I used to. The doctors told me the heat stroke I had back in 2007 in Missisippi changed my body -- and nearly doing it again yesterday didn't help things!

So today I rest -- am still very tired. Have a couple of short errands to run, later on, and in air conditioning!

So ---- for all of you, watch the signs and don't let yourself be as stupid as me!

I thank the Lord for not only His healing hands but His forgiving hands!

Until next time . . . I'm staying inside! Susan and Monty

Super Hot

About 8 or 9 years ago someone gave me some seeds to a plant I had never heard of -- a Moon Plant. The plant itself isn't the most beautiful thing but the blooms are huge and smell like heaven, or atleast what I think heaven surely smells like!

This plant, and 3 more beside it, came up volunteer this summer! After all these years these 4 plants just came up from nowhere and are blooming every night. Oh yeah -- that's why they are called Moon plants -- they only bloom at night and when morning comes the blooms close up and eventually fall to the ground. Then a huge seed pod builds where the bloom was and there must be a million seeds in each pod!

I think these plants and their blooms are one of God's ways of saying we ARE still supposed to be here at home!

This morning was my weekly Bible study and as always, I leave feeling renewed and ready to conquer the world! Atleast I could come home and start printing out our newsletter and getting it ready to mail.

Monty came home early this afternoon. The heat got the best of him and no wonder -- the heat index is in the 100's and since he is working outside . . . We both know the signs of "done" all too well. I suffered a heat stroke back in 2007 and I NEVER want to go through that again! I literally thought I was going to die on the bathroom floor of the hospital emergency room in Mississippi! So when we hit "done" we are done! After a shower and a nap he will be better and ready to go again tomorrow. Although in these temps people should go to work at 6am and stop by 2pm.

Got an update on Mary, our IGO class missionary who is trying to get settled in her new environment in Ecuador. She hasn't started teaching English at the university just yet and although her lost luggage did finally arrive she is struggling a bit with the drastic changes. If you would like to also follow her blog you can do so at: www.maryenecuador.blogspot.com She would appreciate your prayers along her journey.

We (missionaries) are not called to comfort or to success, but to obedience!

From a missionary in Iraq who died in 2004:

"Missionaries care more than some think is wise, risk more than some think is safe, dream more than some think is practical and expect more than some think is possible."

We surrender our "plan" to God -- we have to let go in order for His plan to be fulfilled!

What an awesome God we serve!

Until next time . . . Susan and Monty

Heat

All of the 8 yards I mow weekly are done and may not need to be mowed this week unless it rains! We did get a break for a couple of days but the warnings are back with no end in sight.

Please keep my dad and brother in your prayers as they are farmers and this drought is not what they need!

This week appears to be rather calm -- for now -- and that would be a nice change of pace! Monty will be working on repairing the mobile home he's been working on for awhile. He has the plumbing redone and the deck on the front with an awesome set of steps on the back so he's ready to move inside and get things wrapped up. He's going to need a fan!

I am working on a newsletter -- a long overdue newsletter! Usually I try and get one out 3 or 4 times a year but this past year . . . it just hasn't happened. If you haven't gotten one in the past and would like to receive one (by email or snail mail) just leave your info as a comment here and I'll make sure you get one. Just so you know, your comments come directly to me first so any personal information will be deleted and not posted here. My delay right now is the purchase of printer cartridges -- seems stores are out of them and I pray they haven't discontinued them! We just got this printer less than a year ago! Anyway, as soon as I can find the cartridges I will be getting them sent out.

Tomorrow I get to take my grandkids to lunch. We're going to Burger King this time. It's all about the kids toy! It's always so fun to pick them up and take them. Luke has turned into quite the eater and has his cheeseburger gone before I even get seated! Liv, on the other hand, would take hours if not encouraged! And she's the one who loves to ride in Grandma's "sweet ride".

This Saturday my youngest, Lindsay, will be competing in another fitness competition in Indianapolis. We have our tickets on the 2nd row and will be ready with camera in hand. Please keep her in your prayers as she rounds the bend in this final week of preparation!

We pray all of you are well and getting some fun in during this summer.

We are keeping a close eye on the weather and waiting on God's call . . .

Until next time . . . blessings and thanks to all. Susan and Monty

29 years ago today

Has it really been 29 years? Where did they all go?

Yes, today is my youngest's 29th birthday! This photo was taken at her first fitness competition where she placed in the top 5. Her 2nd competition also had her in the top 5. In 10 days she will be competing in her 3rd competition with the personal goal of placing in the top 3. When she puts her mind to something she is the most dedicated and determined girl and has the willpower to accomplish whatever she puts her mind to!

I still can't believe it's been 29 years ago that I woke up from surgery to learn I had a little girl. My heart was overflowing with joy. And then . . . the doctors came in and said we had "a problem" and she was in trouble. Seems she was delivered over a month early and her lungs weren't fully developed. One lung collapsed early afternoon and the next one that evening. So today is a double birthday for her --- it's also her baptismal birthday! The Pastor came and cracked open a baby bottle of water in the newborn intensive care unit and baptized her mid afternoon. 72 hours later she was off the oxygen and doing well breathing on her own. She stayed in the hospital a total of 9 days and came home healthy and a survivor! The doctors "warned" me about babies that are survivors --- and I know that's where her determination comes from!

Happy Birthday Lindsay! I love you!

Until next time . . . treasure every day God allows us to live in His world. Susan and Monty

Skirting 101

Yep -- today I was the "free"labor for Monty!

He got the mobile home re-anchored yesterday and all the railings on to be ready for the skirting. After 10 hours with the heat index quite high he was done!

Today we set out at 6am and got over two thirds of it completed before the heat just got too intense. It really looks good and I got a big lesson in just how much work goes into skirting a trailer! Monty is a perfectionist and in this case that's a really good thing! It is beautiful and straight as an arrow! We will both return very early Monday morning and should be able to finish it. VERY early is the key in this sunshine and temperatures!

Prayer updates --- please continue to pray for Ms Judy who had the hip replacement and then got an infection and needed a second surgery. They started the proper antibiotics yesterday evening and hopefully will be able to go back home in a day or two.

Also, received a note from Mary and she made it to Ecuador intact! :) One of her five bags of luggage went somewhere else but she is doing okay. She said the most difficult thing is not speaking English! Her Spanish is excellent but didn't realize how tough it is to not speak your native language hardly ever!!! Please keep her in your prayers also as this mission will not be an easy one but it will be one filled with amazing blessings and I can't wait to hear about them!

Until next time . . . give God some praise when you go to church tomorrow! Susan and Monty

OUCH!

First of all, if there are spelling errors here please ignore them. On Tuesday I had a run in with the muffler on my lawn mower and lost -- big time. I bumped into it and now have 3rd degree burns on my thumb -- the right one, of course. It's been a tough couple of days and thanks to the aloe plant my daughter in law got me for Christmas the pain is gone. I actually split one of the leaves and layed it under the bandage to get relief from the pain. It worked and now it's just healing time.

Monty has been more than busy with building the deck for a mobile home and tomorrow starts a job for an elderly lady who has damage from the tornadoes the last of May. He will be putting 12 anchors underneath and then skirting the whole thing. Hopefully the rains will hold off and the temps lower just a bit.

And today is a huge day for one of our missions training school students --- Mary is on a plane heading to the country of Ecuador where she will begin her year in missions. She will be teaching English at the university in the capital city of Quito -- an answer to their prayers --- 10 years in the asking! She will be living with one of the local Pastors and his wife and their son. It's a huge step for her so please keep her covered, saturated, in prayers!!! Go Mary --- you are literally going to the nations and we love you for obeying the calling on your life!!!

An added prayer request for a dear friend of Monty's mother and who has also become a dear friend of ours, Judy. A few weeks ago she had a hip replacement and did extremely well in rehab and went home last Thursday. Today she is back in the hospital with an infection and had another surgery. She was feeling good when she called me this evening and hoping the drainage tubes won't have to stay in long. She's already wanting to get home! Let's pray for supernatural healing.

Until next time . . . blessings to all. Susan and Monty

Graduation Pictures

There they are --- from start to finish!

What an awesome night it was!

Blessings to all and Happy 4th of July!!!!! Susan and Monty

What a celebration!

Pictures tomorrow!

The graduation party was a huge success!!!! We had over 30 people and enough food for double that - and then some!

It was such fun decorating and getting things ready. And boy am I glad I actually cleaned underneath our couch as it was moved out of the way for the entertainment! It's those little things that make me smile -- God's hand all the way.

My parents made it, Randy and Charlotte from the IGO headquarters in Mobile, AL made it, our neighbors made it, families of the graduates made it and Pastor Dave even made it back after his trip to Florida -- he hadn't slept since Thursday night but he and Lisa made it!

We had a wonderful cookout, thanks to our neighbors letting us borrow their grill. Like I said, food for an army! After the meal we were able to give the graduates their certificates. Randy had a few encouraging and supportive words for them and Monty and I had some "fun" certificates to give them. Mary and Bruce got certificates for perfect attendance. Pastor Dave got one for being the world's best host and coffee maker (when he was gone we didn't have coffee -- he said those weren't official classes without coffee), Del and his wife, Jean got one for being the world's best square donut providers and Karen got one for earning the most stickers on her homework week after week!


Following the meal and presentations we let the entertainment begin. Terry and Cheryl and their 9 kids made the trip and just as we promised --- incredible! They sang and played their instruments and brought tears to everyone before the night was over! Their harmony is amazing and every single person was blessed. Our neighbor got to hear the song that was played at her mother's funeral, "10,000 Angels", we paid tribute to the 4th of July and all of us felt the love of God right there in our family room due to their incredible talents! My Dad also got his request of "God bless America" with us all joining in. It's extra special when all of them join together and sing!!!! That's alot of kids and that's alot of blessings!!!!

We are so thankful, so honored and so blessed to have facilitated this education over the past 6 months! What an awesome God we serve!

This morning we headed south to Bedford to meet up with Randy and Charlotte and "officially" give Mary her certificate. She is our youngest student and this Thursday she will be heading to Ecuador where she will begin putting her education to use! She will be living with one of the local Pastors there and teaching English at the university. She will also be working with the youth at their church. It was an honor to not only present her with her certificate but to also let her church congregation know that she has had extensive training and also has a family of support going with her. It was also the opportunity to let the congregation know how important their support and prayers are for her!

After a wonderful lunch where we could finally talk with Randy and Charlotte they were headed to get some rest and we headed home to do the same.

For me this afternoon has been a time of reflection over the last 6 months -- seeing God's ultimate plan and being so thankful that He always has the plan! We, including Mary, had no idea she would be heading into the mission field, some of the students had no idea why they were signing up for classes but they just knew they should, and to see it all come to completion is awesome. I am so anxious to see God's next step with all of them!

Until next time . . . what are we all going to do on Tuesday nights with classes done?
Blessings and congratulations and love to each and every student -- Pastor Dave, Chad, Mary, Del, Bruce and Karen -- good job to all of you! God's mighty army ready for the front lines!

Susan and Monty

Hump Day

Yep -- moving forward toward Saturday.

Mowed 2 lawns yesterday and 5 today -- done for the week! Good thing since the temps are rising right along with the humidity.

My truck also has a new starter and some other part that was necessary. Ouch in the wallet! But I'm back up and running, thank you Lord.

Tomorrow is grocery day and tomorrow evening is a special prayer service for the missing IU student, Lauren Spierer. It's been nearly a month and not a single lead to go on. The searching station has been closed and the police say they are taking "another approach" so please keep this family in your prayers and if you are here in Bloomington PLEASE attend the prayer service!

Until next time . . . love to all. Susan and Monty

Graduation Focused

Yes, this is THE weekend! After over 6 months of weekly classes, weekly homework assignments and a very tough research paper --- they made it! Graduation is this Saturday night!

The Mobile, Alabama school director, Randy, and his wife, Charlotte will be arriving sometime Friday and will have a wonderful certificate of completion for each student.

Saturday evening we will all gather at our house, their families with them, and enjoy a time of fellowship and celebration for all their hard work and dedication.

We have some very special entertainment lined up for the evening and are being very careful to not "let the cat out of the bag" as to what/who it is! :)

So every day this week I am working toward Saturday night.

Today was some shopping and details lined up for the week.

Tomorrow is Bible study and maybe getting 1 of my 7 yards mowed. Depends on the weather as today has been quite stormy and very wet.

Wednesday is supposed to be clear so I hope to get all yards mowed and out of the way.

Thursday is shopping day for the final foods.

Friday is cleaning (oh no) and cooking. Randy and Charlotte arrive and hopefully we can get together for dinner.

And then Saturday is THE day!

Monty works at the mobile home park today, tomorrow and Wednesday. He also has to get materials ready for the tornado damage job he just got awarded. That's a job of reanchoring the entire mobile home and installing new skirting all the way around.

Our biggest need right now? Keeping both trucks running. Yesterday we got stranded when mine refused to start! My daughter picked us up and took us home where we could load up tools and jumper cables. It was really tough to jump but it did finally start and we made it to the shop where they said both the battery and alternador are good. Monty cleaned the motor and parts all afternoon and evening.

And then this morning --- well --- it choked and had trouble but it did finally start! I have prayed over it and demanded satan get his nasty little fingers out of it!!!!!

A busy and exciting week! It's been such an honor for us to facilitate this missions training class and we want each student to enjoy the celebration! God has special plans for each of them! How awesome!

Until next time . . . blessings to all. Susan and Monty

Getting ready for graduation

Without even realizing it I found myself very sad at our last missions training class on Tuesday night! Mary had brought 2 friends as guests and a couple of our students were on vacation but it was an amazing class entitled "Going in Jesus' Name" and was a perfect ending. It was still tough for me to fight back the tears as it's been so much fun doing this class and now we focus on graduation!

Next Saturday, July 2nd we will be having graduation at our house with an old fashioned cookout -- family style. Hopefully each student will have family coming along with them and Randy and Charlotte, the directors of the headquarters in Mobile, Alabama will also be here. So my next week is all geared toward the preparation for that. We want it to be a big celebration of their accomplishments! I have most of the decorations and the entertainment is all lined up so now comes the food itself. And of course, some pretty hefty house cleaning!!! :)

The rest of this past week had Monty replacing the alternador in his truck, along with some other parts I have no idea about. I think we've replaced more of the engine than not! Thank the Lord he can do the work himself!

We both took of rather quickly yesterday when the owner of the mobile home park where Monty works part time called saying one of the homes was on fire! We flew out of here and found the fire fighters already had it out --- the elderly woman admitted she lays in bed and smokes so go figure what happened!!!!!! The bedroom and bath are completely gone and now it has to be pulled out of the park and destroyed. Red Cross was taking care of her! What a mess and how easy it would've been to have avoided the whole thing!

I was able to take my grandkids to Wendy's and Dairy Queen on Wednesday and it was so fun! We had such a good time laughing and my 3 year old granddaughter, Liv, thinks Grandma's big red truck is such a "sweet ride" and gets such a kick out of riding in it. Which is even funnier because their dad drives a truck also -- but there's something about Grandma's!

And my grandson has his last baseball game tomorrow afternoon. I went to the one last night and this is a rain make up so hopefully the weather will cooperate and the season can be over till fall. He's had such fun and has learned so much!

I have also been staying in touch with the long term recovery and Pastor Chad in the Tuscaloosa, Alabama area. He has been named the chairman of the long term recovery and is quite busy but definitely the man for the job. They are still in the clean up stages and yet are making plans to move forward when the time comes. So far so good. Please remember to keep that entire area in your prayers.

So now we are beginning the weekend and pray all of you are safe and blessed. We continue the search for the missing IU student, Lauren Spierer. No leads, nothing -- and her parents are staying strong but need your continued prayers --- big time!

Until next time . . . take a minute and thank God for all your blessings! Susan and Monty
One last note --- Pastor Dave's new grandson is doing great! Even though he was 6 weeks early he is perfect and I loved being able to hold him this afternoon! Warmed my heart through and through!

The Last One

Yes, after 6 months of intense classes, homework and a research paper tonight is the last and final class of our missions training! It hardly seems possible and I will truly miss our little "family" that has gathered every Tuesday night since January. But, contrary to popular opinion -- they made it -- they got all their homework completed -- and they even did a fantastic job on their research papers!

Graduation will be on July 2nd and the IGO director and his wife will make the trip up here for it. We are excited, we are thrilled and we are thankful that God worked through us plain ordinary people to bring His word on missions to this class!

Today is also another milestone -- my niece turns 30! She's in Florida and if she were here we would be having quite the family get together! Happy Birthday Katy! 30 is fantastic!

And -- last evening our Pastor Dave became a Grandpa again --- even if it was 6 weeks ahead of schedule. Little AJ had a plan all his own and he entered this world at nearly 6 pounds and is doing great. Congrats to the whole family!

The search continues for the IU student, Lauren Spierer. With no leads the volunteers are becoming less and less and all the more reason for more and more prayers. Pray for the hidden to be discovered and for strength and hope for all involved.

Until next time . . . congrats to the IGO class of 2011 --- what an awesome God we all serve!
Susan and Monty

Father's Day

This picture was taken this past January at the celebration of my Daddy's 80th birthday. Tomorrow is Father's Day -- a day important enough to be documented on our calendars year in and year out. How will you be spending Father's Day?

My heart is breaking for one special father this year -- the father of the missing IU student, Lauren Spierer. Yesterday I spent the entire day with the local police department, state police department, local fire fighters, National Guard and others searching for Lauren. Our group walked who knows how many miles! Our first search took us through wooded areas and abandoned buildings and more woods. We found nothing!

Our next search took us even more miles on foot, this time up and down county roads and through even more wooded areas. Nothing!

There are people searching day after day after day and into the night time hours --- all of us searching for SOMETHING --- ANYTHING --- to bring answers, to bring closure, to bring peace for this family.

Yesterday I had the honor of meeting her parents and older sister and marveled at their composure, their grace, their strength and their love for not only each other but for everyone taking just a bit of their time to help this family. It was such a powerful lesson for me and one that will take me back to searching again on Monday.

Yes, the temperatures were really hot and the woods was wet and thick and we were literally covered with ticks of all kinds and smiled as we found them on each other and did our best to remove them. But it didn't matter because somewhere out there is a young daughter in trouble and just like Monty and I have "preached" to thousands and thousands of volunteers over the past 6 years ---- EVERYONE CAN DO SOMETHING!!!!

Take a minute (preferably alot longer) and let your daddy know just how much he means to you. And yes --- daddys are human and not perfect and make mistakes and have regrets and wish they could or could've done things differently ---- BUT ---- there isn't a one of them out there that doesn't deserve a phone call or a card or even better --- a hug and a thank you. Each and every one is doing or has done the best they knew how at the time --- for for that alone they need to know you care enough to say so --- atleast once a year!

Time is short, life is shorter and none of us know what tomorrow might bring so don't waste the day and live with regrets!

Our family will be getting together at my brother and sister in law's house on a small lake near their home and we will be laughing together and enjoying the very special Daddy that God gave to all of us! He may be 80 and according to society a "senior citizen" but to my brothers and I he is and always be our Daddy!!!!!! Love you Daddy and can't wait to see you and Mom tomorrow --- after all --- you couldn't have been our Daddy without Mom! :)

Until next time . . . Happy Father's Day to you all! Susan and Monty

A Different Kind of Disaster

If you've watched the news at all you have seen the story of the missing Indiana University student, Lauren Spierer. She has been missing for 10 days now. Not a trace! No word! Nothing! Her family has been here since day 1 and I don't know if I could have the strength they do!

Ever since she went missing there has been a station set up in front of the apartment complex where she lives. It's where people go to help search -- for anything! They have scaled down the times from 3 times a day to 2 and today was the first chance I had to go and join in.

I went a little before 11 this morning to find the Indianapolis television stations lined up for stories and to do what they can to keep the awareness level as high as possible. People started coming and signing up to walk -- wherever the leaders said to walk -- and to look for whatever the leaders said to look for.

We had a 4 block square to search in. There were 7 people in our party and we were told to look for the truck that they have a photo of. It seems there was a truck in that area -- circling the area a couple of times within a few minutes and they think it's a "truck of interest" right now. Since she went missing around 4:00 am there wasn't alot of traffic and for this truck to go around that block twice in less than 10 minutes brings it to interest.

We all walked the areas, looking everywhere, behind fences, in parking lots, in driveways and everywhere we could. We found nothing!

While we were walking we got to know each other a bit better. When we arrived back at the leaders station I was asked if I could join another search team. This one has the police and firefighters and military leading the searches. They are looking for people with experience and when they heard what we do full time . . . they were excited to have me join in with them. So very early tomorrow morning I will dress in long pants, long sleeved shirt, boots and gloves and be ready to go wherever they say to go with whomever they say to go with.

This is another of those opportunities where EVERYONE can do something! As a community we need to take a stand and let society know this kind of action WILL NOT BE TOLERATED in this community! So many of us out there today have daughters and it just hits too close to our own households! Both of my daughters graduated from IU and I cannot imagine this kind of pain! I pray I never have to!

So I will be going and searching and going and searching until . . .

I beg of you --- please keep this family in your prayers! Supernatural prayers!

If you're interested you can look this up on facebook and find plenty of information and even find flyers you can print and put in your vehicle windows or anywhere and everywhere!

Like I said --- everyone can do something -- and in doing so we WILL find her!

Until next time . . . blessings to all. Susan and Monty

See for Yourself

Amazing! NOW I see why satan was fighting us so hard!

The trip was incredible and MUCH thanks to everyone who played a part!!!!!!

On Friday morning (after a good nights sleep) we met Pastor Chad at his church in Woodstock. That is between Birmingham and Tuscaloosa. He gave us a tour of the church and we were thrilled to see that they have a basement to go to when those "just in case" times actually happen!

He then guided us into the heart of Tuscaloosa and the relief center! More shocking sights of everything devastated! The relief center is strategically located -- in the heart of what used to be governmental housing. There's nothing left -- and I mean nothing!

The folks were lined up waiting for supplies to arrive at the center. We were able to off load everything we had (and that 18 ft trailer was full) within 30 minutes! They lined up at the center and they lined up at our trailer. Adults and children, young and old, healthy and very ill -- everyone on equal ground, everyone looking for hope!

We met so many amazing people; the Americorps young adults who come to work in the center, Samaritan's Purse (Franklin Graham's disaster ministry) and most of all the lady who started the whole thing. She just wanted to "do something" and ended up changing lives and showing everyone who came near her the heart of Jesus in action! What an honor it was to meet her and get just a few minutes of her precious time!

You can see from the pictures the set up of the center, those being served and those waiting to be served. The line never ended the whole time we were there. When we got the trailer unloaded we shifted to Dee Dee's car which was loaded to capacity. The last 2 things we had were boxes of rice that is supposed to have special nutrients for children in it. Out of the corner of my eye I saw 2 mexican kids pass by and when we located their mother she was exstatic to be given both boxes! She couldn't speak English but words weren't necessary! She felt the love of Jesus and that's what counted!

As we were nearing the end of the supplies in our trailer Monty shouted out that we all needed to join hands in prayer and it was such an amazing display of God's love -- you could feel the Holy Spirit just like you feel the shirt on your back! Everyone felt so much better and the smiles shown all across each face -- even the young mother of a 2 week old baby girl who desperately needed diapers and wipes for the baby (we had plenty and she left loaded down)!

I admit that it was tough to leave. I was wishing we had a trailer filled with supplies that knew no end.

It was then time to head out but not before praying for 2 gentlemen who got our attention big time. They were both homeless and assured us they had a place where they went each night. One had a bandage on his arm and he told us all about his kidney dialysis he goes to 3 times a week and has done for the past 3 years. The other gentleman explained that the reason his voice was so raspy was because he had throat cancer. Each one told how they hadn't been living their lives like they should but had turned themselves around with the help of God and that He was what kept them going each day! Tears were streaming down my face as they walked off to who knows where. But they had supplies in their hands and our prayers in their hearts!

Lunch was a quick burger at one of the few places open in the area. It had sustained damage but was up and running and feeding thousands, literally.

After lunch Dee Dee headed east to make a visit to a church she had heard about and that her church had made a monetary donation to. It was east of Birmingham and she had a great visit there. From there she headed north and was homeward bound. It was great to have her come with us and see and feel how God moves in situations like these. She is headed back this Thursday with Rob from our church as he and she and another gentleman go back to do some cleanup work in the Cordova area. They will each be loaded down with bottled water and more hygiene supplies to bless the area. Rob had tears in his eyes when I was telling him stories yesterday after church so I hope he's bringing a box full of tissue for his trip! I love those guys who have such warm and compassionate hearts! A real gift from God.

With our burgers gone and Dee Dee on her way it was time to have the meeting with Pastor Chad that he had requested. He is the head of the Disaster Relief for the Assembly of God churches for the entire state of Alabama and has his hands full. He is the perfect man for this job -- whether he realizes it or not! God chose him and he is already beginning to experience some of the miracles and God moments and connections and blessings! Hang on Pastor Chad because God is about to change your life forever!

The meeting went well and we were able to share some of our experiences, give him some guidance and let him know we are available to help him in any way possible.

By the time we were back in the truck and headed north ourselves it was early evening. We had to get some hours behind us because we had to have the trailer borrowed from Orphan Grain Train back by 1:00pm on Saturday afternoon. So off we went and got a bit over half way home before we stopped.

We made it back with the trailer with 30 minutes to spare and made it back home with less than an hour until my granddaughter's 3rd birthday party. A quick change of clothes and an even quicker packing of her presents and off I went. She had such fun and it was such a blessing to be able to share in her fun and laughter.

By late evening Monty and I were able to eat a bite for dinner and we were down for the night long before 10pm!!!!!!

Yesterday was church and the beginning of our Pastor Dave's 2 month sabbatical -- the first in 25 years! More than a bit overdue!!!!

I had 4 yards to get mowed yesterday afternoon and managed to get them all completed except ours -- which will now wait until tomorrow when I can enjoy being out and working around the whole yard.

Today has been a day of catch up and a day to accomplish quite a few things that didn't get done last week since I was at the trailer taking donations for 4 days.

It's also been a day of reflection for me -- looking back and seeing the hand of God in so many things and so many directions! He never ceases to amaze me and I pray I never get used to it all! What a truly awesome God we are blessed to serve!

Until next time . . . count your blessings and thank God for each and every one!

Susan and Monty

In Alabama

I tried to get you an update yesterday but once again blogger had a burp and the whole thing "went away" so let's try again . . .

First of all I want to congratulate my youngest daughter on finding the perfect wedding dress! That's always such a special memory and I can't wait to see how beautiful she looks in it, although she would look beautiful in anything!!!!

Now, for the update . . .

What a week it's been! I'm not sure where to begin. Seems there must be something here in Alabama that satan doesn't want us to see or experience or anything as he's been working overtime and in areas we would least expect!

All week Monty was dealing with major sewer problems at the mobile home park and when he had just stepped out of the shower and sat down for our missions training school class on Tuesday night he got the phone call that the system had "blown" -- literally!!! So once again he was out working till after 10:30 pm. Yesterday he called in the troops and it is all repaired and rebuilt and working super!

I sat and loaded the 18 ft trailer for 4 days and when we pulled out this morning it was packed full . . . so much so that I off loaded some of the boxes into our church storage barn for the team going to help next weekend. Rob can have the bed of his truck full and anyone else driving can do the same. We can keep the blessings going.

Monday I had a gentleman come to me and tell me about how their church had collected and filled their 10 ft trailer with emergency supplies to take into Joplin. When they called Joplin to tell them they were headed that way they were told NOT to come as they have more supplies than they know what to do with! So he didn't know what he was going to do with all the supplies. I told him we would be more than glad to take them so he brought the trailer to the Kroger parking lot where I was and for the next 4 1/2 hours I organized and packed our trailer with their supplies! How awesome and what a double blessing for all those who donated!

It was a tough week for collecting though --- a couple of reasons. The heat has been nearly 20 degrees above the average normal and that kept many inside in the air conditioning. Those that braved the heat were busy volunteering their time looking for the missing Indiana University student. You probably heard about her in the news, Lauren, and as of today she still has not been found. The volunteers are out by the hundreds and that is exactly where and what they should be doing! Please keep this family in your prayers -- I cannot imagine their pain!

So this morning we headed south and arrived this evening. Our friend, Dee Dee, followed us with her car also loaded with supplies. Tomorrow morning we all will head out early to meet with Pastor Chad at his church. From there we will be taking our supplies to the Holt Relief center where we will unload our supplies and check out the center. You can look it up on facebook or google search it by name and see more about it. It was started by one woman who wanted to "do something to help" and I guess it's quite the place! I am so excited to see it and meet her and thank her for doing what God obviously called her to do! We will also be meeting Charles and Mia who are recent IGO graduates with an interest in disaster relief. We have spoken many times on the phone and they also have a load of supplies from the Mobile area. It will be great to meet them in person and thank them for their hearts of service.

Once we are finished at the center Pastor Chad will be taking us on a tour of Tuscaloosa. This will be the first time Dee Dee has seen any of the results of the tornadoes and the first time we have been able to go into the heart of Tuscaloosa. We will also be able to gather information as to whether we will be doing another of these trips.

After the tour we will be meeting with Pastor Chad about the work here and about the workings of the long term recovery committee that will be put together very soon. God has given us many lessons in this area and it's an honor to be able to share it with those needing it.

After all of that we will be heading back north and towards home. We received a phone call from Gene at Orphan Grain Train in Columbus today (he's who we borrow the trailer from) saying he needs the trailer back in Columbus by 1:00pm Saturday. So we will get as far as we can and make sure we have it back and parked at the church awaiting its arrival.

Please keep us in your prayers for tomorrow. I believe God has divine appointments for us and I pray we are there with our eyes, ears and hearts open to do what it is He has for us to do.

Until next time . . . blessings and peace, His supernatural peace, to all. Susan and Monty

Patience!

I need to let all of you know that starting now I will be off the computer for the entire week -- until we return from Alabama! If you read yesterday's post you will understand why! There just won't be time and I apologize but hope you will be patiently and anxiously waiting for next weekend!

I also just received word from our contact in Alabama, Pastor Chad, about a location requesting supplies so I imagine that's where we will be headed. Need to do a bit of investigating as to the exact location but sounds like right outside of Tuscaloosa in the center of the worst damage.

Please cover us --- really cover us !!!!! with prayer this entire week! THAT is what we really need -- and what everyone needs!!!!

Until next weekend . . . blessings and thanks and love to all. Susan and Monty