tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-319781522012-02-16T09:35:33.277-02:00The blog spot of a missionary wife living in Uruguay. I hope that God will be glorified through the brief glimpse into my life - the joys, thrills, struggles and trials of life on the mission field with 8 kids! If you do not yet have a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ please take the time to visit the Are You A Christian link.Debbienoreply@blogger.comBlogger4441100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-83465098061496551342010-09-09T20:31:00.000-03:002010-09-09T20:31:32.913-03:00

I am awestruck! Last night, through the preaching of His Word, God sat me down, cupped my tear stained face in His hands and tenderly reminded me that He is in control. My wounds, though open and raw, have passed through his sovereign hands. He will dress my injuries and some day when they heal the scars will ever be a reminder of His love for me.

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-5836406917978923482010-08-12T16:32:00.000-03:002010-08-12T16:32:43.127-03:00

Hey everyone, I just wanted you to know I am doing well in my recovery from Surgery.  I haven't had the words (creatively) to write about Brandon's 18th B-day and post pics but I will soon.  Promise.   I'm still lost in the thought that my firstborn is now an adult.  

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-79710503258128202432010-07-30T21:17:00.000-03:002010-07-30T21:17:20.518-03:00

A few days ago I noticed some redness and swelling in the skin directly below my lower surgery incision.  When I started feeling crummy I passed it off as doing too much.  I don't know how I could have thought that, it's not like I've been doing much of anything...but eat, sleep and rest.  Believe me, I've been taking it easy but figured I had taken one too many trips up and down the stairs.

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-83044855428167188702010-07-22T21:55:00.001-03:002010-07-22T22:00:33.995-03:00

Thank you all for your faithful prayers for me on Monday, as well as for this week as I recover. The surgery went well.  It did take longer than expected but I have done well with the recovery period.  I am very thankful to our friend Bonnie from our home church who gave us a place to stay this week.  She even gave up her bed for me so I wouldn't have to walk up stairs. NOTE: More

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-68724469129833403042010-07-17T14:50:00.000-03:002010-07-17T14:50:10.184-03:00

Tomorrow we will be heading up to Michigan.  After we take the children to their grandparents we will head up to the hospital so I can have my pre-op blood work drawn.  And, Lord willing, at 7:15 AM on Monday, July 19th, I will be heading into the surgery room. Everything is feminine in nature, hence the ambiguity, and a necessary part of any further treatment.  We are praying that the results

Debbienoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-54886324942581943822010-07-14T15:41:00.000-03:002010-07-14T15:41:01.874-03:00

Brandon and Kaitlin have been gone for just over a week now.  It is dull without Brandon and his antics.  And Kaitlin's quiet presence is missed. After leaving church Sunday night Scott's phone showed a voice mail.  It was from Kaitlin.  I had been hoping all weekend to hear from them and was sorely disappointed when we missed her call.  Thankfully, a couple hours later the phone rang and

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-85578236093534725682010-07-13T19:23:00.000-03:002010-07-13T19:23:50.246-03:00

Our little Addie is growing up and we can hardly believe she is now in the double digits.  Wasn't I just writing this about Beth? This year we celebrated her birthday over several days.  A few days before her big day we went to the American Girl Doll place where she got a Just Like Me doll that is actually just like her Peruvian friend in Uruguay, Debora.  She opened her presents on her actual

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-42095070997490495952010-07-10T19:14:00.001-03:002010-07-10T19:31:11.703-03:00

it only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades.  In this case, the kick by Diego Forlán that hit the cross bar, was not close enough to tie up the game in order for Uruguay to have extra time against Germany.  Sadly, that slightly too high kick won Germany the Bronze medal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The World Cup this year certainly was amazing.  It was more than thrilling when the soccer "

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-28703751983065763042010-07-03T18:11:00.000-03:002010-07-03T18:11:35.938-03:00

After all the tests and exams we have some answers and have a plan to help deal with one of my major health issues.  My blood work came back good, for the most part and we were already aware of one of the things that was not in the normal range.  I will have 2 outpatient procedures done on the 19th that will allow for me to get continued treatment for this one ailment. I had a stress test, to

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-22509276147493916072010-07-01T10:38:00.000-03:002010-07-01T10:38:34.793-03:00

Well, my doctor and his staff have done it again.  I had several tests run yesterday both in his office and at the hospital.  Will go back to the hospital this afternoon for more tests.  Tomorrow I will see another doctor to have some things checked.  And will end the day back at my doctor's to get the results of everything.  Please pray that the reason for my physical ailments will be clear and

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-14144239167391415152010-06-30T11:30:00.000-03:002010-06-30T11:30:05.965-03:00

Yesterday I was pulled off some of my medicines because of complications I am experiencing.  It just so happened (in those God type of "coincidences") that our home church Pastor and his wife were visiting us for the day.  When we found out I could get an appointment with our family doctor for today they offered to bring me home with them. So long story short I'll FINALLY be seeing my family

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-46523288495784520772010-06-23T18:00:00.000-03:002010-06-23T18:00:12.170-03:00

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-19833488796994977772010-06-23T17:56:00.000-03:002010-06-23T17:56:34.884-03:00

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-6276912571225053502010-06-23T17:52:00.000-03:002010-06-23T17:52:29.068-03:00

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-53929525932539623682010-06-06T18:54:00.000-03:002010-06-06T18:54:01.469-03:00

I just wanted you all to know that there have been some improvements in some struggles I asked prayer for on May 11th.  I'm still having a hard time physically and I am able to finally able to sleep through the night, more or less, I still am up 1 or 2 times and that is with some medicinal help. I did have some blood tests run and we discovered a physiological problem that is causing my

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-60685476372222729932010-06-06T18:42:00.000-03:002010-06-06T18:42:34.860-03:00

This post has been sitting in my drafts folder because I lacked pictures to share with you all.  Brandon and Kaitlin were the only ones to take their cameras, I didn't want to have that added responsibility on top of 8 kids in a crowd.  Anyway...thanks to the Lord's provision we were able to take a trip to Disney World the last part of May.  It was one of the best family trips we've ever had!  

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-71906156471595551232010-05-11T23:34:00.000-03:002010-05-11T23:34:43.548-03:00

...request.  Let's see how do I go about requesting prayer for something while being very vague about it without raising curiosity?  Hmmm, well, if there is a way I can't think of it right now.  So I'm going to stop trying to figure it out and just have out with it.  There are some overwhelming trials in my life for which I need faithful intercessory prayer.   I can't share any specifics.  The

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-72094042598267874602010-05-10T13:17:00.000-03:002010-05-10T13:17:23.081-03:00

from all your little B's on this special Mother's Day.  And such sweet thoughts they are that grace the pages of a memory book dedicated by each one of my children to me, their mommy! "I wanna cuddle" is what Silas thinks of and I'm so glad because his cuddles are just the best! Simeon thinks I'm very pretty and he regularly tells me that so it was no surprise to read his thoughts. From our

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-84531586035366922862010-05-06T18:04:00.000-03:002010-05-06T18:04:48.427-03:00

For the Cajiuat family the Monday after Thanksgiving was the beginning of a life no one would ask for.  As they headed out in two cars to Christmas shop no doubt their minds were filled with the special gifts they could get for each other. Plans quickly changed when 17 year old Joshua attempted to cross the road and was t-boned by another vehicle.  He sustained major injuries including brain

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-61833198909128345052010-04-29T19:56:00.000-03:002010-04-29T19:56:19.217-03:00

Those of you who follow my blog will remember that we used SIGMA in Uruguay.  The program we modeled ours from is the one featured in the blog. Every year in the Spring Emmanuel Baptist Church holds their Youth Awards Banquet.  The youth staff decides upon a theme and later goes to work to transform the gym into an entirely different place.  In years past the gym became an ocean bottom, castle

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-74799918821483471392010-04-16T14:10:00.000-03:002010-04-16T14:10:32.849-03:00

Today is Nehemiah's 8th birthday.  It's hard to believe it was that long ago that I was trying to ignore contractions while I headed up my last Sarah's Daughter meeting as President. I'll never forget Scott flooring the car on the way to the hospital when he discovered I was having contractions every 3 minutes.  And we were still 45 minutes out. Nor how God providentially had him born in

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-46979230067086302722010-04-13T18:06:00.000-03:002010-04-13T18:06:46.049-03:00

These past couple months our family had the blessing of staying in a very nice home in the South Carolina piedmont (foothills).  The friend of friends made the home available to us.  It certainly was nice to have the space to spread out - Extreme Homemaker style!  The Lord really amazes us with the special ways He cares for our needs and beyond. Since the house was out in the foothills and on

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-2598544646316202352010-03-17T11:33:00.000-03:002010-03-17T11:33:52.333-03:00

Our little Simeon is turning 5 this weekend.  He is still such a little guy it’s hard to comprehend that he is already 5.    I realize, in stating that, that I missed blogging that Kaitlin and Bethany turned 15 and 12, respectively.  Kaitlin was out of town for her birthday.  So we drove over to see her and take her out for her birthday dinner.  Bethany had to wait for Kaitlin and Brandon to get

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-64261790334010531282010-03-04T19:17:00.000-02:002010-03-04T19:17:21.627-02:00

I have had good intentions to blog but really have not had the opportunity.  As I write I’m without internet, so I find myself wondering what was it that I last blogged about?  I recall blogging about a furlough meeting, but now I wonder, “Did I really blog that or just think I needed to.”  Oh, well!  I guess I’ll find out when I get online again, and post this blog.  :-)The Lord has really been

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-61183788631937031862010-02-09T18:48:00.000-02:002010-02-09T18:48:02.180-02:00

Our relationship as missionaries with Gantt Street began several years ago during Bible College.  Scott had stayed faithful to the course of school but he still had about a 1 1/2 of studies to go because he was limited by finances and no regular work.   That particular summer he had felt it was necessary to do some summer school even though that meant he wouldn't have money saved up for the fall

Debbienoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-63644552748792882262010-01-31T18:22:00.000-02:002010-01-31T18:22:43.907-02:00

Psalm 51:7  "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow."  This past week Scott and I were able to take a get away, just the two of us, alone, no kids...OK...you get the point.  I am so thankful for our friends who took care of our children in our stead.  It is always fun to hear all the stories from each child when we get back.  Silas didn't even "diss"

Debbienoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-54619553105208265002010-01-21T15:36:00.000-02:002010-01-21T15:36:13.847-02:00

We ended our cross country trek in our southern home-state of North Carolina.  (We have lots of home states).  After a day of travel through rain we were blessed to have the sky clear up just as we got into NC.  After driving for the day we ended our trip at our second home church, Emmanuel Baptist.  Where we were members and served the Lord during Bible College.    We were invited to go to

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-2251702704942296332010-01-21T14:54:00.000-02:002010-01-21T14:54:21.179-02:00

For those who may be curious I thought I would quickly recap our furlough travels: we have traveled through/in Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa, Illinois,Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina since we arrived in the States a few weeks ago. In February we will be in Charleston South

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-42620579112808568942010-01-17T22:31:00.001-02:002010-01-17T22:34:03.845-02:00

The Lord has given is another great meeting in another church plant.  And again with friends, James and Cate Appel, from Bible College.  If I am remembering correctly the Appels arrived here, the home town of Cate, in 2005.  It was great to see the Appels again and to see them interact with their people.  They had 2 visitors to the morning service. It is thrilling to see them focus on missions.

Debbienoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-64086922757134790202010-01-17T22:15:00.000-02:002010-01-17T22:15:22.300-02:00

I have always wanted to see Mount Rushmore but we've never been "in the area".  So when Scott said we might be able to see it on this trip I was so excited.  There were a few moments of doubt when our friends told us the weather had turned sour.  And had we been here last week we probably would have not gone - the weather up there was -22° F.  I was so pleased to see this historic monument!  It

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-73703514209740808512010-01-17T21:47:00.000-02:002010-01-17T21:47:05.503-02:00

Having always drive the southern route across the country and back east again I was loving all the sites that filled the horizon as we traveled from Nevada to Nebraska along Interstate 80.  It seemed that there was a surprise around corner.  Here are a few pictures of the things that we saw: The first picture is the mountains in the west.  The next is the Rockies from the I-80 looking South

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-78857101506840826882010-01-12T16:29:00.000-02:002010-01-12T16:29:55.621-02:00

This church was planted in 2009 by friends, Pastor Rick and Melanie Lynn.  They have told us that the Lord has far bypassed what they expected during the first few months.  It was thrilling, to say the least, to be in this church and see first hand what the Lord is doing.                                    One of the things we especially admire about the Lynns is their desire to give God

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-49438067637553517692010-01-10T21:23:00.000-02:002010-01-10T21:23:18.501-02:00

and through the woods from grandmothers house we went. After a very long day of travel on Friday...that could have been shorter if we took a different route, I'm told...we arrived in Fernley, Nevada.  Our time here thus far has been full of blessings and we are so encouraged in the Lord!  I plan to write more after we have tonight's service because I'm hoping to add pictures when I blog about

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-48025786972157499892010-01-04T16:43:00.000-02:002010-01-04T16:43:07.015-02:00

New Year's was a very loud experience! New Year's Day we headed to Scott's Mom and step-Dad's house in Santa Barbara. It didn't take long for the kids to begin having fun with Grandma Karen, and her brother, Uncle Gary.  Then to teach them all to play the Wii. While the kids were having fun I was building this crazy train puzzle for Nehemiah!

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-12049970960628759082010-01-04T16:27:00.000-02:002010-01-04T16:27:53.757-02:00

The neighboring cities of Hemet and San Jacinto are where we grew up.  The Hemecinto Valley is home to much of my family.  And it also offers one of the prettiest views in Southern California.  The mountains below are what we grew up looking at and driving into to play in the winter snow.  Our first stop when we got into town was the In N' Out where Scott and I had our first date! From

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-69404337089164740732009-12-29T00:11:00.000-02:002009-12-29T00:11:39.060-02:00

After a longer than we expected drive from Lake Havasu City to North LA on Christmas Eve the kids were quite ready to get out of the van to be greeted by their Grandma Jay's open arms and exclamations of how much they have grown and changed in the past few years.  Opening presents Christmas morning. Jay's boyfriend, Nelson, is from El Salvador.  It's been fun to speak with him in Spanish.

Debbienoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-82862939974827813972009-12-22T16:55:00.001-02:002009-12-22T17:05:28.989-02:00

This is on the way to Phoenix.  Are these mountains gorgeous?!  I have always missed seeing snow topped mountains.  Nehemiah kept saying that he was going to climb these. The next picture shows the grade out of the mountain.  And then the difference in landscape. The Bowmans are a sweet couple.  And we really enjoyed our stay with them.  They have a grand piano in the living room and Kaitlin

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-15056377606510194162009-12-22T16:19:00.000-02:002009-12-22T16:19:55.712-02:00

Me and my Aunt Bonnie.  It has been 16 years since we last saw her and my Uncle. Their Christmas Tree...the kids discovered presents with their names on them. Playing Catch-Phrase with the cousins. The kids spent ALL day outside yesterday playing on the hills.  Uncle Greg also took them on two hikes. And Silas has been driving all his cousins Barbie cars around.

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-2620524323351758182009-12-18T03:53:00.000-02:002009-12-18T03:53:42.351-02:00

Aren't those the words that every mother cringes to hear when traveling on a LONG trip?!  Maybe it is because we have 8 kids but it seems like I hear this every 20 minutes.  Especially today.  Simeon was literally telling me he had to go potty all day.  I hope he doesn't have something going on.  I do know that at least one time he played in the bathroom instead of using it.  He got to "water" a

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-37629316178522531062009-12-14T15:19:00.001-02:002009-12-14T15:31:02.591-02:00

There is always a measure of unease when we visit a new church.  And there is always a feeling of not wanting to be a burden.  So when we booked our stay with this church after picking up our van I was a little unsure of what to expect.  If you have read my previous posts you know that the folks here have made up feel extremely welcome here! Yesterday we were privileged to spend the Sunday

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-15611779243857495092009-12-14T15:03:00.000-02:002009-12-14T15:03:19.859-02:00

Saturday afternoon found us looking for a place to take a screaming Isabel.  She was downstairs in the church playing when she came back up to the prophets chamber crying from pain.  We decided a week of waiting was enough and we needed to get her seen by a doctor.  Of course it couldn't happen on a weekday. Pastor Kaighen directed us to the children's hospital in Kansas City while another man

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-50960200235553899792009-12-12T22:07:00.000-02:002009-12-12T22:07:13.628-02:00

Last night I was able to go to a ladies Christmas party!  When I found out they were having this party while we are here I seriously considered crashing it.  Thankfully someone extended an invitation to me so when Kaitlin and Scott headed to Wal Mart they picked up a small gift and this really cute bag. There were LOTS of yummy goodies - things with marshmallows and peanut butter and cream

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-66576321993636403642009-12-10T21:33:00.000-02:002009-12-10T21:33:12.936-02:00

Though it's not quite a winter wonderland outside it is definitely a cold blustery day.  The weather reported the temperature at 7 degrees F but it feels like -7.  BRRRR!  Thankfully the church we are staying at has a game room with carpet ball, foosball, ping-pong and a Wii in their youth room or we would be dealing with some very bored kiddos.  The kids have loved the time to play all these

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-74500347175461611362009-12-08T19:08:00.000-02:002009-12-08T19:08:58.896-02:00

Today we took the whole family to WalMart!  It was an educational trip!  Really!  Who knew that you could buy all those electronics for so cheap.  For example a Wii for $200.00 is $600.00 in Uruguay.  Food, clothing and diapers are cheaper.  The store is as big as we remeber them to be but it was hard to get the size across to the kids.  Silas' little mouth was hanging open and his expression

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-41981707691477879522009-12-07T14:07:00.000-02:002009-12-07T14:07:16.047-02:00

We all were extremely exhausted after a total of 33.5 hours of traveling yesterday.  It is fun to say that we traveled in planes, trains, and buses.  And here we are in our home country and loving every minute of it, so far.  It was hard to believe, though, that we were back in the USA while we were in Miami.  Literally every one of the airport workers we came across spoke Spanish.  And when they

Debbienoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-22664859769043319852009-12-06T12:31:00.000-02:002009-12-06T12:31:03.571-02:00

Shortly after 5 this morning we touched down in Miami.  The trip so far has been pretty good.  Very long but uneventful.  The flight over the Andes was absolutely spectacular!  And the kids all enjoyed the individual screens with games during the flight from Chile to the USA, until they all passed out from exhaustion.  I actually got some sleep too! Now we are waiting for the next connection to

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-71318872559430287252009-12-05T10:50:00.000-02:002009-12-05T10:50:48.779-02:00

Silas, was running around the house this morning saying screaming "VAMOS.  GO."  Poor guy must think we're going to leave without him.  He's calmed down now that everyone is sitting around.  The anxiety is clear in the whines of the littlest of our children.  And on the other hand the excitement is evident as everyone talks about seeing family, shopping at WalMart, eating Taco Bell. :-)  So

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-28450567718988282872009-12-04T11:04:00.000-02:002009-12-04T11:04:20.707-02:00

Little Andrew Smith went home to be with the Lord early this morning.  Please be in prayer for his parents, Shawn and Sandy, and siblings Steven and Charis Joy, extended family, church family and friends, as they grieve the loss of this wonderful little boy. 

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-20661202137471412052009-12-03T20:37:00.000-02:002009-12-03T20:37:10.564-02:00

So I'm taking one!  I have been packing, doing laundry, packing, laundry, packing, cleaning, laundry, cleaning, packing...all day and I'm done in.  And I want some ice-cream.  Silly, isn't it?  I'm am happy to declare that all the boys and Isabel are pretty much completely packed.  And by completely I mean all the stuff in their rooms too.  I had a mountain of laundry, literally, to get through

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-82373254926526803092009-12-03T20:24:00.000-02:002009-12-03T20:24:55.473-02:00

 Below you will find an update on Andrew Smith.  The news is not what we had hoped for and we ask that you keep Andrew and his parents Shawn and Sandy, and siblings Steven and Charis Joy in your prayers! On Sunday, November 15th, we arrived at the National Institutes of Health where Andrew was happy to be back under the care of his beloved Dr. Warren.  When we met with Dr. Warren on the

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-47942297979015027752009-12-02T21:55:00.000-02:002009-12-02T21:55:27.443-02:00

Today Scott and I stopped by the hogar (home) of Abuela Paulina and Juana to say our farewells.  It was hard to see her sad to see us leave.  She's been such a blessing to us we will miss her greatly.  But we are thankful to have her as our prayer warrior.  Tonight was our last official service here in Colonia del Sacramento, UY.  I did great through the night.  Really.  It wasn't that I wasn't

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-77245456538778672102009-12-02T11:48:00.000-02:002009-12-02T11:48:33.641-02:00

Here we are already at the middle of the week time is in warp now.  I know I should be doing other things to prep for furlough but at the same time the need to blog a history of our last few days here before furlough can't be resisted.  Now that much of the house is boxed up for storage we're able to focus on packing suitcases.  Not an easy task for a family of 10 but added to that is trying to

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-68617352804594343122009-11-30T15:19:00.000-02:002009-11-30T15:19:55.119-02:00

WOW, only 5 more days until we are loaded up on the first airplane of 4 in our trip back to the USA.  My emotions run a muck right now.  I'm sad to be leaving but thrilled to be going back home!  (NOTE: The saying of "Home is Where Your Heart is." is true for me - only my heart is in two places Uruguay and America.)  The last few months since we decided to take furlough have passed quickly and

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-1194229073488055262009-11-28T17:09:00.001-02:002009-11-28T21:07:42.683-02:00

I cannot believe that we are only a week away from heading back to the USA!  As we begin these last few days here in Colonia we are reminded how blessed we are to have had the opportunity to minister here.  A few weeks ago one of the ladies asked if she could organize a despedida for me.  I had no idea what to expect but I was really excited that she would think of me and desire to do something

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-19886938861613172009-11-28T15:36:00.000-02:002009-11-28T15:36:47.266-02:00

Chickens in disguise as turkeys once again fooled our taste buds this Thanksgiving.  Maybe it is all the normal fixin's that help them along.  This year we had ham, sweet potato casserole with marshmallows, sauteed green beans, macaroni and cheese, stuffing and rolls.  For dessert we had pumpkin pie, pumpkin rolls, carrot cake, and berry cobbler (with berries from our back yard).  The food was

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-72575676181002667182009-11-23T21:18:00.000-02:002009-11-23T21:18:26.002-02:00

Thanksgiving on the mission field certainly adds a new dimension to the holiday.  Some things we just have to do without, like Turkey.  As you know from reading about our other Thanksgivings here in Uruguay we replace the Turkey with large chickens...just can't get ourselves to pay the $100+ for a gobbler.  And it actually tastes like Turkey!  Don't roll your eyes...go ahead try it. :-)  This

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-32697903481880922602009-11-17T11:27:00.000-02:002009-11-17T11:27:18.004-02:00

It is indeed a thrilling thing to be a missionary serving God on the mission field.  As we served the Lord throughout our deputation ministry we used that time in churches to share our heart for the people of Uruguay.  Before that, when we didn't yet know where we were headed, we would listen intently to each and every missionary and ask God, "Is this where you would have us to go?"  Often

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-7971011694229940072009-11-13T10:30:00.000-02:002009-11-13T10:30:30.613-02:00

Eph 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Missions has always been at the forefront of my Christian life.  I thank God for our sending church that places a focus and importance on the heartbeat of God - sharing salvation through Christ with the

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-63142600779115590112009-11-09T15:32:00.000-02:002009-11-09T15:32:47.371-02:00

Kaitlin playing the offertory.  Her ability to play the piano has increased exponentially in the last year.  It was exciting to see her playing arrangements of intermediate level music.    Jony leading congregational singing. Yeny, Eliana G, Eliana Q, Maria Eugenia, Elizabeth, and David singing the special music. Brandon preaching for Genesis 12 about how even little things will affect

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-30701084206869779932009-11-09T12:53:00.000-02:002009-11-09T12:53:30.693-02:00

Teaching young people to do the work of the ministry is wonderful especially when they have the opportunity to put their lessons into action.  We are thankful for the way that the Perezes have organized the church and annex here in Colonia, allowing for the young people to serve in nearly every capacity.  It puts the church at a distinct advantage! This weekend SIGMA ended and we completed our

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-88030219242213185032009-11-06T10:13:00.002-02:002009-11-06T10:51:15.308-02:00

If it weren't for all the trouble this little guy gets into it would be hard to believe he is two.  He's grown so much in the past few weeks.  And he woke up yesterday visibly taller and seemingly chubbier.  His vocabulary is amazing.  He speaks both English and Spanish.  When he wants my attention he calls me in Spanish.  When he wants to cuddle he calls me Mommy.  Ditto all that for Scott

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-75394284841069587692009-11-05T16:33:00.000-02:002009-11-05T16:33:58.081-02:00

The van was towed back to our house today.  Since it looked like it would take longer than estimated 3 weeks to fix the van, the warranty would be only good during the time we were gone (and unable to drive the van), and we don't have the money right now, it didn't take long for us to decide that waiting to fix the van until a few weeks before we return to the field was the wisest thing to do.

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-75212948126194460012009-11-02T17:30:00.000-02:002009-11-02T17:30:50.589-02:00

Close to the Finish The Lord has richly blessed us throughout our first term. We have learned to lean harder on the Lord.  He continually gives us a greater ability to speak Spanish.  And we are better able to minister to Uruguayans. The effects of culture shock have lessened.  Our burden for the people of Uruguay is even greater.     Though we are busy preparing our belongings for storage

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-86412626643269211432009-10-30T10:47:00.000-02:002009-10-30T10:47:07.927-02:00

The sister of one of my best friends went home to be with the Lord this week.  My life was definitely enriched for having known Staci.  Please pray for the family as they adjust to life without her. Here is the obituary from the paper:  Staci Cadarian. Born November 26, 1972, went to be with the Lord, Monday, October 26, 2009. With many broken hearts left behind. Staci was a beautiful person

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-38179175602385958472009-10-28T20:38:00.000-02:002009-10-28T20:38:24.516-02:00

Although I never met him, I grew up hearing about my Grandpa Kelly!  My memories are of a man who was a Navy lifer who died from a massive stroke just day before his retirement.  I have copies of old pictures of my grandpa in his uniform with his family - my grandma, dad and aunt.  My oldest nephew, Travis, is following in Grandpa's footsteps.  And we are so very, very proud of him!  This

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-61028913195991639052009-10-27T14:20:00.000-02:002009-10-27T14:20:04.502-02:00

That's pretty much what our little van did yesterday.  Scott turned the van over only to hear a lot of metal cracking and clanking when we attempted to take the kids to an orthodontist appointment   Not good!  Because the van is a diesel and Scott's not a diesel mechanic we had to have it hauled away yesterday afternoon.  But we just learned today of  rods that are bent and cracked, a blown

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-23195053811297642212009-10-26T12:17:00.000-02:002009-10-26T12:17:49.476-02:00

Our first time to experience elections in Uruguay really wasn't too remarkable.  That's not to say that the time leading up to the elections was not alarming and eye opening.  With the exception that every of-age-Uruguayan must vote, election day in Uruguay passed much like it would in the States. I'm still trying hard to understand the intricacies of the voting system here in Uruguay but I

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-1261264916131222682009-10-24T14:19:00.000-02:002009-10-24T14:19:30.073-02:00

Yesterday was a surprisingly hot day for October.  It was truly a welcome break from the cold, but with that kind of heat there is always a storm.  And last night was no exception.  We headed to last night's baby shower with clouds on the horizon and a hint of rain in the air.  By the time I headed out to take the ladies in the El General Barrio home the temperature had dropped significantly. 

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-20419522735338136532009-10-24T12:12:00.004-02:002009-10-24T12:52:53.551-02:00

Last night we celebrated another new baby in the church...Zacarías Aarón Chauvie.  Because we have so much going on in our lives right now with ministry responsibilities here, furlough preparations, home schooling, and life in general, I thought it a perfect opportunity to teach another woman how to do the work of the ministry. Elida was gracious enough to take on the responsibility of

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-75860993171709240282009-10-18T12:49:00.005-02:002009-10-18T13:20:26.895-02:00

Yesterday was a beautiful day to have an evangelistic children's meeting. Sebastian had planned and prepared for the day and had asked for the teens to be the helpers. God brought 48 children to the park to play, sing and hear a devotional focused on the Cross. Three children, including Nilsan (above in center), asked Christ to be their Savior! Another was our 6 year old daughter, Isabel!

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-69303322836091806722009-10-15T18:02:00.003-02:002009-10-15T18:36:08.037-02:00

Throughout our years as parents we have worked very hard to train our children to have table manners. Really there is nothing harder then to try and enjoy a meal out when you have unruly kids. Throughout our time in Bible college we were sure to take our kids out to eat in restaurants to familiarize them with the turf...so to speak. Since we had basically 3 years of meals out during deputation

Debbienoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-87665272086604102362009-10-14T15:17:00.004-02:002009-10-14T15:37:34.206-02:00

A funny thing happens to missionaries the longer they live in their adopted countries, they begin to fall in love with all things, in our case, Uruguayan! Yes, that even includes soccer. http://deportes.aol.com/futbol/uruguayUruguay will play Argentina in a very important game tonight. This is a historic game, after (yes, I am thinking positively) Uruguay beats Argentina and sends them home,

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-90865091661456135202009-10-08T08:56:00.004-02:002009-10-08T12:30:09.298-02:00

The last Sunday morning of October is election day here in Uruguay. As election day approaches each party shows their presence in cities throughout the country through political rallies. It is not uncommon to see people walking with flags representing their preferred party. Party banners blanket yards, cover trees and stretch over city streets. Empty houses, or shops are rented and painted to

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-21017441959739795492009-09-30T12:23:00.004-03:002009-09-30T12:44:51.652-03:00

It is so nice to hear, and say, that word after a long cold winter filled with illness. Of course, it sure would be nice to have more Spring like weather, and as long as the sun is shining it's not too bad.Adeline seems to be handling Spring very well...so far. Which is a good trade-off because Silas has been sick all winter. He gets better and then I head back to church with him only to have

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-48475594410203545902009-09-23T21:00:00.006-03:002009-09-23T21:33:43.308-03:00

This past Saturday we took a group of 18 ladies to the Fundamental Ladies Conference in Montevideo. The ladies here were so excited about the chance to fellowship and learn from the Word of God. It was wonderful for me too! I got to spend extended time with the ladies, and reconnect with friends I haven't seen in awhile. We also celebrated Mirtha's birthday! A neighborhood just outside of

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-52142974781398347472009-09-21T14:15:00.002-03:002009-09-21T14:19:24.836-03:00

Here is an article worth reading about the impact the Lord is allowing the Smith family to have.

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-72949951825000019162009-09-16T17:50:00.003-03:002009-09-16T17:56:58.253-03:00

Below is an update on Andrew Smith about how the Lord provided for a very definite need in a very definite way. I trust you all continue to pray for Andrew and his family and I thought you would rejoice in this blessing with them.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~In the middle of May, while considering the ramifications of switching Andrew's chemotherapy to every three weeks from every two

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-63142775491006490502009-09-13T09:31:00.004-03:002009-09-13T10:08:29.280-03:00

This morning Isabel officially turned six. She is still as adorable as the day she was born, though more outwardly stubborn. She can still hold her own against her brothers sometimes a little too well. She is finishing up her 1st grade year and is doing great! Some days are easier than others for her but once she gets past thinking everything is hard she does well. No doubt all those gold

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-76357394081407475342009-09-12T20:17:00.003-03:002009-09-12T20:43:06.030-03:00

After a few weeks of work, several changes, some advice, and even more changes we have the final version of our furlough 2010 prayer card. I also made a version of the front in Spanish to give to the people here.The conversation around here focuses on our furlough as the kids (and their parents) talk about seeing family, and eating in favorite restaurants and shopping at Wal Mart! Scott has

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-12900429425417501012009-08-22T18:26:00.005-03:002009-08-22T18:54:18.266-03:00

This one (in color) is going on our new prayer card. If anyone would like a printable copy just leave a comment and we'll work on getting one to you.There's a secret to this one.All the handsome guys...and all the beautiful girls. (Speaking of my girls)A "for fun" picture. I love how Simeon's arm rests on Scott's shoulder.

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-8964799136470398502009-08-14T18:49:00.006-03:002009-08-14T20:32:32.467-03:00

Dr. Monty Budahl teaching song leading.Brian Trainer headed up the mission team and preached on Wednesday night.Flute trio.Clarinet quartet both this and the flute arrangements were very bright and cheerful.We didn't a picture of us singing with the MBBC group during the service but this is during the practice.Swine flu outbreaks both in Argentina and here in Uruguay threatened to end the plans

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-29547943039602839732009-08-09T09:35:00.001-03:002009-08-09T09:35:54.584-03:00

Main decoration in the front of the church

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-38949462344494436282009-08-05T14:30:00.003-03:002009-08-05T14:30:00.748-03:00

Each year we shake our head in wonder that another year has passed in the life of our eldest child. I, personally, am no less amazed this year than last. The feeling of amazement that my firstborn could be 1, 2, 3...13, or 17, always takes me by surprise. Does that feeling ever leave a parent? Will I be doing the same thing when he is 40? Oh, boy, can't even go there because that would mean

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-62024998612735036742009-08-02T12:59:00.004-03:002009-08-02T13:43:30.648-03:00

I keep feeling like I'm neglecting the blog, I guess because I am. Does it help if I've been busy with other things? Well, I'll not offer a bunch of excuses but I will update you on what's happening. Right now I am working on our presentation for furlough! That's right, furlough! Can you believe it? I can't! Granted, that's because our first furlough is 10 mos earlier than originally

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-43432722712421436092009-07-20T20:56:00.001-03:002009-07-20T20:56:28.426-03:00

Consider Christ | West Coast Baptist CollegeShared via AddThis

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-18062024130952832072009-07-13T20:07:00.004-03:002009-07-13T20:51:54.037-03:00

Team Dan's Tabernacle. Team Judah's High Priest Team Judah's Tabernacle complete with the Cloud over the Most Holy place. Inside a Tabernacle.A few years ago, when I first studied the Tabernacle in

Debbienoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-48682006121901223702009-07-11T12:51:00.002-03:002009-07-11T13:37:18.199-03:00

Until recently, when the H1N1 Swine flu hit the world, the word QUARANTINED seemed to be reserved more for a virus on our computers than for daily life. I wonder how many young people are just learning that term as it relates to people and real live viruses. Uruguay, like many other countries world-wide, has been hit by the Swine flu. As long as it stayed warm the virus seemed to be held at bay

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-57746107160350205932009-07-07T13:36:00.003-03:002009-07-07T15:44:06.935-03:00

"Make sure you dress for the weather because we'll be at the port. When you go in look for the American ship, you can't miss it." With advice like that we were not at all sure what the US Embassy had planned for this years 4th of July celebration but it sure did peak our interest and our hopes. We were not disappointed!!!The USS Oak Hill was in the area because of cross-training exercises with

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-91949617320558584642009-07-02T18:08:00.000-03:002009-07-02T18:08:00.450-03:00

About a year ago I signed up to receive an occasional devotional on Monday Morning Club from Claudia Barba. I have been so blessed by each one but this one especially spoke to me. I suppose that after just having been in the very place where Jesus spoke to the disciples, knowing that He had waited until the 4th watch, and having recently passed through our own storm wondering where God was, I

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-49562231117191295202009-07-01T11:57:00.009-03:002009-07-01T18:06:19.019-03:00

Finally, we stepped foot into Old City Jerusalem! But not onto the Temple Mount, not yet anyway. We entered the city through the Dung gate and waited in line for security to enter the Western Wall area. It sure was thrilling to walk right by the Western/Wailing Wall as we entered into the Western Wall Heritage Museum. It took 20 years to excavate the Western Wall tunnels which run the full

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-32264601448849738832009-06-29T13:45:00.002-03:002009-06-29T13:45:01.744-03:00

For my birthday this year Scott and the kids surprised me with a trip to Montevideo to have lunch wherever I wanted...we had Chinese...and to play a couple games of bowling. Though none of us are very good, bowling is one of our favorite things to do as a family. Everyone can participate and we always have a lot of fun with each other.

Debbienoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-39382567349062295122009-06-28T13:05:00.004-03:002009-06-28T13:44:47.228-03:00

As missionaries, far away from things like Pop Tarts, Butterfingers, Reeses, Hanes, Christian novels in English, and Plastic sippy cup inserts, having boxes of such items arrive at our home makes for A LOT of excitement! Lately, we have received a few care packages and we wanted to show you all how blessed we are to have individuals and supporting churches who take such wonderful care of us!

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-28578158247382472412009-06-28T11:10:00.002-03:002009-06-28T11:31:48.316-03:00

The weddings, both civil and church, were wonderful! Pastor Andres and Maria Eugenia planned a lovely, Lord honoring wedding and reception. Scott was able to preach the gospel to over 25 first time visitors there for the wedding. Maria Eugenia's grandmother and mom told me that the message was very understandable and they enjoyed it. Without doubt the newly married couple would appreciate

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-58465520362330351822009-06-25T13:14:00.004-03:002009-06-25T14:10:43.374-03:00

Pastor Andres is a missionary from Mexico. He has been doing an internship, of sorts, in the ministry here while he learns the culture of Uruguay. Before he came he sent a letter stating that he believed God had a wife for him here in Uruguay. His faith was not misplaced! Shortly after his arrival he already had his eyes set on a particular young woman, Maria Eugenia, who also seemed to have

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-38036771594020873142009-06-24T21:00:00.003-03:002009-06-24T21:35:09.225-03:00

Wow, I really falling back on the Israel blogs. I'll get back to them next week. Before I tell you about my test results I want to thank you for praying for Sabina. You will remember me mentioning her in a post recently. Scott and I were able to stop in a visit with her for awhile today. She is recovering well from the Gullien Barre syndrome which caused her paralysis. We are very thnakful

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-6468086930656454622009-06-14T12:56:00.007-03:002009-06-14T21:29:08.401-03:00

Valley day! Today we started off from Yad Hasmona to a high point called Radar Mountain. The hill, originally in Palenstinian hands, was conquered in 1967 and has been in Israel hands since then. From a watch tower we were able to look down at a check point for Palestinians who come into Jerusalem for work. The check point is to enter through "the wall" that snakes all around Palestinian

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-91378584983653150002009-06-12T20:24:00.004-03:002009-06-12T20:30:36.663-03:00

Taking another break from uploading Israel pics (ok, so now I might be avoiding it) to make another public service announcement about the Music Conference (Talleres Sobre Musica Cristiana) in August. We are excited about the opportunity to host a group from Maranatha Baptist Bible College as they offer workshops on the Philosophy of Sacred Christian Music, Voice, Choir, Instrumental, and

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-15347997083117587322009-06-12T20:09:00.004-03:002009-06-12T20:19:52.399-03:00

I'm taking a break from all the Israel uploads, to let you know about the upcoming youth retreat in July. The Bucear en las Escrituras (Dive into Scripture) retreat will be a time of concentrated study of the Bible, preaching, games and food. I can't yet reveal the topic the youth will be studying because we don't want anyone to have an advantage but I can say that it will require working

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-48931943140327556902009-06-09T19:42:00.004-03:002009-06-11T17:10:32.425-03:00

Leaving David's Falls looking towards the Dead Sea and the mountains of Moab (Transjordan)Alton Beal preaching at the David's Falls.Me soaking in the beauty at the David's Falls. Our tour leader, Craig Hartman, is to my right.Falls in Ein Gedi.Sheepfold caves in the Wadi Qelt.Me and Scott on a camel at Genesis Land/Abraham's Tent...not comfy, at all. :-) That's the Judean desert behind us,

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31978152.post-56315077661007003382009-06-09T17:23:00.005-03:002009-06-09T19:42:32.727-03:00

Sorry to have dropped off on the trip blogs. Now that some more pressing matters have been cared for I can continue with this. Before I begin please be in prayer for Sabina, one of the young ladies here.  Suddenly she had some finger numbness which has progressed.  She is unable to walk.  The last I heard, today, was that they are trying to discover the problem but Multiple Sclerosis is a

Debbienoreply@blogger.com0