My parents and youngest brother (who was born in Kenya and holds Africa in his soul) get on a plane today. Devin must come stateside for college though it is killing his heart to do so.
Please be in prayer as they travel and as his heart hurts. Pray that God's amazing grace will transend all the pain of leaving and they will feel the comfort and love of HIM.
Thanks.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Sunday, October 29, 2006
News from Botswana
**Last update from my mom**
Dear Loved Ones,
What a day!! Our last Sunday was filled with blessings. Our attendance was good. We had three visitors, including a girl we have been inviting for over a year. We baptized three young men, two Batswana and one Kenyan. We heard a testimony from our Indian family. Their daughter almost died with an aneurysm last year. They got word this week that she is completely cured and will be traveling to visit with them in November.
Last January, one of our ladies left to work in England. Her children are here and have been unable to come to church because the father will not bring them and they live far. Today, I gave a shout of joy and tears filled my eyes as I saw Agnes and Allune come in the door. One of our ladies knew I would love to see them and made arrangements for them to come with her. They will travel in January to live with their mother so that was our last chance to see them.
At the fellowship after the baptism, our people gave Devin some gifts and also some gifts were given to Dennis, a young Tanzanian man who will soon be returning to Tanzania. We sure hate to see him go, God has his hand on that young man. We are thankful that God goes before him to prepare the way for him.
As Steve and I talked after everyone had gone home, we just commented that all of this is what GOD has done. It is so great to watch Him work and trust Him as he leads us along. We leave Tuesday at 5 pm from Gaborone. It sounds like the tiny airport will be filled with people that love Devin and his parents! We so treasure your prayers. It was an emotional day today and Tuesday will be oh, so hard, especially for Devin.
We stop in England on the way home to visit a couple we knew in Kenya. We have prayed for their salvation since we met them. Please pray that we will have opportunity to proclaim Christ once again to our friends, Surinder and Bilu.
Friday, if you hear a shout! It will be us as we land and embrace our children whom we have not seen in three years. We are looking forward to more sweet reunions throughout the month as we see our parents and our siblings. How wonderful that will be!Thank you for praying for us, we need the strength that God gives when you pray.
Reaching the Unreached,Steve, Pam and Devin
Dear Loved Ones,
What a day!! Our last Sunday was filled with blessings. Our attendance was good. We had three visitors, including a girl we have been inviting for over a year. We baptized three young men, two Batswana and one Kenyan. We heard a testimony from our Indian family. Their daughter almost died with an aneurysm last year. They got word this week that she is completely cured and will be traveling to visit with them in November.
Last January, one of our ladies left to work in England. Her children are here and have been unable to come to church because the father will not bring them and they live far. Today, I gave a shout of joy and tears filled my eyes as I saw Agnes and Allune come in the door. One of our ladies knew I would love to see them and made arrangements for them to come with her. They will travel in January to live with their mother so that was our last chance to see them.
At the fellowship after the baptism, our people gave Devin some gifts and also some gifts were given to Dennis, a young Tanzanian man who will soon be returning to Tanzania. We sure hate to see him go, God has his hand on that young man. We are thankful that God goes before him to prepare the way for him.
As Steve and I talked after everyone had gone home, we just commented that all of this is what GOD has done. It is so great to watch Him work and trust Him as he leads us along. We leave Tuesday at 5 pm from Gaborone. It sounds like the tiny airport will be filled with people that love Devin and his parents! We so treasure your prayers. It was an emotional day today and Tuesday will be oh, so hard, especially for Devin.
We stop in England on the way home to visit a couple we knew in Kenya. We have prayed for their salvation since we met them. Please pray that we will have opportunity to proclaim Christ once again to our friends, Surinder and Bilu.
Friday, if you hear a shout! It will be us as we land and embrace our children whom we have not seen in three years. We are looking forward to more sweet reunions throughout the month as we see our parents and our siblings. How wonderful that will be!Thank you for praying for us, we need the strength that God gives when you pray.
Reaching the Unreached,Steve, Pam and Devin
Friday, October 27, 2006
ONE WEEK!!!
**DANCES FOR JOY!!!!**
This time next week, I can be found in a little white minivan, somewhere between Birmingham, AL - where I will have just spent a wonderful time with three very dear friends - and Atlanta, GA - where I will be on my way to the airport to pick up my mom, dad, and brother (provided they let him out of Africa....ha ha!)
But seriously, please pray for my family in the next few months....
#1. Packing and final preparation to leave will go smooothly.
#2. Emotions as Devin leaves his homeland Tuesday, October 31st.
#3. Safety as they travel - Flight to England - time in London with friends-flight to USA.
#4. Sanity as a family comes back together to be one for a little while.
#5. The church family left behind, that they will continue to grow
#6. Devin settling in to college and a job and a good church home.
Thanks for all your prayers and support....I cannot express how much I can feel it coming from every corner of the globe.
You are treasured.
This time next week, I can be found in a little white minivan, somewhere between Birmingham, AL - where I will have just spent a wonderful time with three very dear friends - and Atlanta, GA - where I will be on my way to the airport to pick up my mom, dad, and brother (provided they let him out of Africa....ha ha!)
But seriously, please pray for my family in the next few months....
#1. Packing and final preparation to leave will go smooothly.
#2. Emotions as Devin leaves his homeland Tuesday, October 31st.
#3. Safety as they travel - Flight to England - time in London with friends-flight to USA.
#4. Sanity as a family comes back together to be one for a little while.
#5. The church family left behind, that they will continue to grow
#6. Devin settling in to college and a job and a good church home.
Thanks for all your prayers and support....I cannot express how much I can feel it coming from every corner of the globe.
You are treasured.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
10 Days.....
6 hours, 20 minutes, 10 seconds....9....8....7....6....5...4...
Oh yea....definitely on a countdown!
Quick update for those who keep asking for one!! :-)
I went to the doctor last Monday and he did the blood work thing and upped my meds for my thyroid. And not too soon....the rest of the week was not a fun week with all the symptoms. But what to do? As they say in Africa...can't bring life to a stop. Praising God that His strength is perfect...as I had none! I should start seeing improvement in 4 to 6 weeks...lovely!
Brothers....
Health is pretty much the same.
Family...
We are so excited to be together....did I mention....10 days...5 hours....35 minutes....30 seconds....29....28....27....26.
Made a quick trip to Houston this past weekend....nothing went as planned....but I got to spend time with those I love.....so I was happy. For those I missed out on....I love you anyway....I do miss you and will make you part of my next trip, I promise.
I came home yesterday to a traditional Kenyan meal, and just polished of Ugali and Sukuma leftovers for lunch....oh the bliss of living with an African!!
Work continues to be exciting for me. I am learning so much, and am so thankful for the resources. I was able to put together a re-entry manual for my brother's homecoming, and for my family. Received well and with great thanks by some, others....well...I am sort of used to their behavior/attitude towards my life....so my life can move on without them....as per usual.
I thank the Lord daily for the non-blood family He has put in my life. I could not make it without your constant love, support, prayers, encouragement, admonition and exhortation. What would I do without you?!?
This blog has taken way to long to write as I am composing in between . I promise to update with something fun and interesting to read soon.
Ok now only 10 days....4 hours....50 minutes....15 seconds....14.....13....12....11....
Oh yea....definitely on a countdown!
Quick update for those who keep asking for one!! :-)
I went to the doctor last Monday and he did the blood work thing and upped my meds for my thyroid. And not too soon....the rest of the week was not a fun week with all the symptoms. But what to do? As they say in Africa...can't bring life to a stop. Praising God that His strength is perfect...as I had none! I should start seeing improvement in 4 to 6 weeks...lovely!
Brothers....
Health is pretty much the same.
Family...
We are so excited to be together....did I mention....10 days...5 hours....35 minutes....30 seconds....29....28....27....26.
Made a quick trip to Houston this past weekend....nothing went as planned....but I got to spend time with those I love.....so I was happy. For those I missed out on....I love you anyway....I do miss you and will make you part of my next trip, I promise.
I came home yesterday to a traditional Kenyan meal, and just polished of Ugali and Sukuma leftovers for lunch....oh the bliss of living with an African!!
Work continues to be exciting for me. I am learning so much, and am so thankful for the resources. I was able to put together a re-entry manual for my brother's homecoming, and for my family. Received well and with great thanks by some, others....well...I am sort of used to their behavior/attitude towards my life....so my life can move on without them....as per usual.
I thank the Lord daily for the non-blood family He has put in my life. I could not make it without your constant love, support, prayers, encouragement, admonition and exhortation. What would I do without you?!?
This blog has taken way to long to write as I am composing in between . I promise to update with something fun and interesting to read soon.
Ok now only 10 days....4 hours....50 minutes....15 seconds....14.....13....12....11....
Friday, October 13, 2006
Babies, babies, babies
This is the week for babies!!
As many of you know, I do not plan on having any of my own. (Please do not start the lectures...I have heard them all...thank you.) However, when my friends bring children to the world I weep tears of joy, and welcome them with "arms wide open" (yes cheesy lyrics, yet wonderful).
This week.....
Grayson Gabriel Mitchell....joined us into the world on October 7th....right on time. Adopted by my darling Mary Kay director Brittany Mitchell and her husband Jon. This baby is beautiful! Not to say that all babies are, but he is! The birth mother is doing ok as well, praise the Lord! I am so grateful for the gift of adoption.
Oh, sweet boy, I have prayed for you, and for both your mommies and your dad. May you grow up to walk in the light of His grace.
And this early morning, in France, Aliyah Karon Auterson, joined us! Sister to Kirianna, who I also have not had the pleasure of meeting yet, and 2nd daughter to my dear missionary friends Lance and Amy. I believe she is a wee bit early, but she is here and healthy and beautiful just the same. In God's timing, not ours.
Oh little girl I have prayed for you to "wait on the Lord". So glad you waited just a few extra weeks before making your grand appearance.
WELCOME to the World sweet babies.....it will be scary at times, but know that you are loved more than you can possibly imagine. First there is the love of your Heavenly Father, who formed you long before we ever knew about you, He was there with you in womb, and will continue being right beside you all the rest of your days. When you aren't sure....just call His name....
Secondly, you both have families that are just going to spoil you in the best ways possible. You are going to be loved and adored and crooned over till you just burst.
And lastly, whenever you need just a little extra, or someone to plead to your case, an extra hug here, some ice cream there, or you just don't think you are spoiled enough......come see me....Auntie A will always be there.
And gum....I will always have gum.
As many of you know, I do not plan on having any of my own. (Please do not start the lectures...I have heard them all...thank you.) However, when my friends bring children to the world I weep tears of joy, and welcome them with "arms wide open" (yes cheesy lyrics, yet wonderful).
This week.....
Grayson Gabriel Mitchell....joined us into the world on October 7th....right on time. Adopted by my darling Mary Kay director Brittany Mitchell and her husband Jon. This baby is beautiful! Not to say that all babies are, but he is! The birth mother is doing ok as well, praise the Lord! I am so grateful for the gift of adoption.
Oh, sweet boy, I have prayed for you, and for both your mommies and your dad. May you grow up to walk in the light of His grace.
And this early morning, in France, Aliyah Karon Auterson, joined us! Sister to Kirianna, who I also have not had the pleasure of meeting yet, and 2nd daughter to my dear missionary friends Lance and Amy. I believe she is a wee bit early, but she is here and healthy and beautiful just the same. In God's timing, not ours.
Oh little girl I have prayed for you to "wait on the Lord". So glad you waited just a few extra weeks before making your grand appearance.
WELCOME to the World sweet babies.....it will be scary at times, but know that you are loved more than you can possibly imagine. First there is the love of your Heavenly Father, who formed you long before we ever knew about you, He was there with you in womb, and will continue being right beside you all the rest of your days. When you aren't sure....just call His name....
Secondly, you both have families that are just going to spoil you in the best ways possible. You are going to be loved and adored and crooned over till you just burst.
And lastly, whenever you need just a little extra, or someone to plead to your case, an extra hug here, some ice cream there, or you just don't think you are spoiled enough......come see me....Auntie A will always be there.
And gum....I will always have gum.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Clarification
Regarding the "Check, Check, Check".
I forgot to add that is the checklist for all of the hypothyroid symptoms. I was diagnosed with it 6 years ago, and my levels have been under control for a while. But now all the symptoms are going on full force!
Thank so much for the notes of concern on the fact that I am an emotional basket case.
Just need new pills! I have a doctor's appointment next Monday to have blood work done....joy joy!
I forgot to add that is the checklist for all of the hypothyroid symptoms. I was diagnosed with it 6 years ago, and my levels have been under control for a while. But now all the symptoms are going on full force!
Thank so much for the notes of concern on the fact that I am an emotional basket case.
Just need new pills! I have a doctor's appointment next Monday to have blood work done....joy joy!
Monday, October 09, 2006
CHECK, CHECK,CHECK
I am gaining weight inappropriately - Check
I'm unable to lose weight with diet/exercise - Check
I have hypothermia/low body temperature - Check
I feel fatigued, exhausted - Check, check
Feeling run down, sluggish, lethargic - Check, check, check
My skin is coarse, dry, scaly - Check
I have puffiness and swelling around the eyes and face - Check
I have pains, aches in joints, hands and feet - CHECK!!
I have female issues no one wants to know about - Check
I feel depressed - Check
I feel restless - Check
My moods change easily CHECK!- check...CH!$#CK!!!
I have feelings of worthlessness -Check!
I have difficulty concentrating - Check!
I have more feelings of sadness - Check!
I seem to be losing interest in normal daily activities - Check!
I'm more forgetful lately - Check!
Ok, see this beautiful list? "What is it?" you ask. This the list of every symptom that I have made excuses for in the past 2 months. "Of course, I am tired and discombobulated I just made a major move in 3 days." "My skin is so dry since moving to Dallas." "I am feeling sad because I just moved and am in "transition"." "I must workout more and harder, I cannot lose this weight and I will not buy bigger clothes!!"
Let's not even get into the "feelings of worthlessness" issue.
Yesterday after crying myself to sleep in the middle of the afternoon for the 3rd day in a row, I finally thought....'Wait! I'll bet my meds are off!' So, now to find a new doctor in this land of OZ that I seem to be living in and come back to the Amanda that we all know and - hopefully - love!
Body chemistry is a horrible thing!
I'm unable to lose weight with diet/exercise - Check
I have hypothermia/low body temperature - Check
I feel fatigued, exhausted - Check, check
Feeling run down, sluggish, lethargic - Check, check, check
My skin is coarse, dry, scaly - Check
I have puffiness and swelling around the eyes and face - Check
I have pains, aches in joints, hands and feet - CHECK!!
I have female issues no one wants to know about - Check
I feel depressed - Check
I feel restless - Check
My moods change easily CHECK!- check...CH!$#CK!!!
I have feelings of worthlessness -Check!
I have difficulty concentrating - Check!
I have more feelings of sadness - Check!
I seem to be losing interest in normal daily activities - Check!
I'm more forgetful lately - Check!
Ok, see this beautiful list? "What is it?" you ask. This the list of every symptom that I have made excuses for in the past 2 months. "Of course, I am tired and discombobulated I just made a major move in 3 days." "My skin is so dry since moving to Dallas." "I am feeling sad because I just moved and am in "transition"." "I must workout more and harder, I cannot lose this weight and I will not buy bigger clothes!!"
Let's not even get into the "feelings of worthlessness" issue.
Yesterday after crying myself to sleep in the middle of the afternoon for the 3rd day in a row, I finally thought....'Wait! I'll bet my meds are off!' So, now to find a new doctor in this land of OZ that I seem to be living in and come back to the Amanda that we all know and - hopefully - love!
Body chemistry is a horrible thing!
Friday, October 06, 2006
Stateside Return!
I am so excited! Note the new ticker on the side of this blog!!
November 3rd is the date, and I am ready! I can't wait to talk to my mom while looking at her face, curling up on the couch to talk to my daddy, and to get reaquainted with the young man, that left me as a child, who is my brother!
Things here are going well. Getting adjusted to working, and loving that. I am learning so much! I have even been able to put together a re-entry manual for my family, which is something that I envisioned doing about six months ago, but was not sure how to go about it. I have been able to put together something for stateside family, and for the Botswana family. Just things to prepare for and expect. Even after 20 years of transitioning back and forth emotions and changes can completely take one by surprise, and one can find themselves doing and saying and acting in ways never imaginable in other circumstances. So, having the preparation and reminder information beforehand is always so helpful.
I am so thankful that God put me in a place where I have the resources to do so!
November 3rd is the date, and I am ready! I can't wait to talk to my mom while looking at her face, curling up on the couch to talk to my daddy, and to get reaquainted with the young man, that left me as a child, who is my brother!
Things here are going well. Getting adjusted to working, and loving that. I am learning so much! I have even been able to put together a re-entry manual for my family, which is something that I envisioned doing about six months ago, but was not sure how to go about it. I have been able to put together something for stateside family, and for the Botswana family. Just things to prepare for and expect. Even after 20 years of transitioning back and forth emotions and changes can completely take one by surprise, and one can find themselves doing and saying and acting in ways never imaginable in other circumstances. So, having the preparation and reminder information beforehand is always so helpful.
I am so thankful that God put me in a place where I have the resources to do so!
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Update
Warning...disjointed tired thoughts....
Update on my Astros....done for the year *tears
congratulations to the Barfield family!! Go Padres!!
Update on my College football....off to a raving start!! Woo Hoo! Go Rice!! Hook 'em!! (Yes I do realize those two sayings don't go together...however, for the next four years they will share equal space in my heart)
Update on my Derek...feeling a bit better. Blood pressure still needs to come down.
Update on my Devin...still not feeling well. Dr's still unsure, but currently blaming on the Epstein barr. In the process of transition....4 more weeks till Stateside arrival. Loving you my sweet boy...feeling your pain.
Update on my Ryno....out of commission for at least 4 months....tear on some part of thigh...surgery required.
Update on my mom and dad....4 weeks until Stateside arrival. Pray for smooth transition.
Update on current residence....Done's house. Ralph and Becky gone for the week...Sadie needed a babysitter! :)
Update on my Abilene house....paper work in process...please pray for SPEED!!!
Update on job....loving what I am learning....both the work and the people. Quirks are so fun to figure out!
Update on my life in general....battleing homesickness for Africa, my BRIDGE group, my family and my friends....holding tight to the promise "I will never leave you nor forsake you."
Enjoying Dallas....glad to be with friends here.
Update on my love for each of you......same as always and growing.
Please email me how I can pray for you this week.
Peace and Blessings
AW
Update on my Astros....done for the year *tears
congratulations to the Barfield family!! Go Padres!!
Update on my College football....off to a raving start!! Woo Hoo! Go Rice!! Hook 'em!! (Yes I do realize those two sayings don't go together...however, for the next four years they will share equal space in my heart)
Update on my Derek...feeling a bit better. Blood pressure still needs to come down.
Update on my Devin...still not feeling well. Dr's still unsure, but currently blaming on the Epstein barr. In the process of transition....4 more weeks till Stateside arrival. Loving you my sweet boy...feeling your pain.
Update on my Ryno....out of commission for at least 4 months....tear on some part of thigh...surgery required.
Update on my mom and dad....4 weeks until Stateside arrival. Pray for smooth transition.
Update on current residence....Done's house. Ralph and Becky gone for the week...Sadie needed a babysitter! :)
Update on my Abilene house....paper work in process...please pray for SPEED!!!
Update on job....loving what I am learning....both the work and the people. Quirks are so fun to figure out!
Update on my life in general....battleing homesickness for Africa, my BRIDGE group, my family and my friends....holding tight to the promise "I will never leave you nor forsake you."
Enjoying Dallas....glad to be with friends here.
Update on my love for each of you......same as always and growing.
Please email me how I can pray for you this week.
Peace and Blessings
AW
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