On my way! Trip 6 to Liberia! I am sitting in Brussels airport watching my daughter sleep wondering what the next few days will bring about in her life as God uses the people of Liberia to impress on Callie a world so much different than her own!
Probably will not have internet acces in Liberia much if at all. So no updates this trip like normal. But we are in our new orphanage....so when I get back, I will share lots of pictures...I imagine Kami has already put up a bunch....click on the Orphanage Project button n the right to check and see! I have only seen a few, but what I have seen is amazing!!!!
Will send pics and updates when I can!
Showing posts with label travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label travel. Show all posts
Friday, August 7, 2009
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Blessings
Callie and I are headed to Liberia! We don't have the full amount....about $4,000 short, but John and I both believe I need to be there, so we booked the flight and are waiting and trusting God for the rest!
We didn't book until Wednesday, so that kind of sent me in a scurry thinking of leaving...with Callie...in a week! So on Friday we went to Goodwill to look for some skirts and cool shirts...especially for Callie since she mainly has knit and denim capris that would be really hot!
Well, we ran into an old friend from Garden City at Goodwill. We had a basket full of stuff as we ran across tons of kids chapter books in series (like Babysitters Club, Goosebumps, etc). I sale those on Ebay and make good money back, so we bought them to sale to help make money for the trip. We start talking to our friend Renee and end up in line behind her. When the lady tells her the total for her purchase, Renee tells her to keep ringing us up! I was floored! She paid for all of our purchase as well as giving us some cash for "airport snacks". It was such a blessing and encouragement on a day that had been filled with battles starting at 5:00 am with a phone call from Liberia! God gave me a shot of encouragement just when I needed it and it was such a promise that He will provide! It was amazing!
So thank you, Renee, for blessing our socks off! And thank you God for perfect timing that encourages and restores!
We didn't book until Wednesday, so that kind of sent me in a scurry thinking of leaving...with Callie...in a week! So on Friday we went to Goodwill to look for some skirts and cool shirts...especially for Callie since she mainly has knit and denim capris that would be really hot!
Well, we ran into an old friend from Garden City at Goodwill. We had a basket full of stuff as we ran across tons of kids chapter books in series (like Babysitters Club, Goosebumps, etc). I sale those on Ebay and make good money back, so we bought them to sale to help make money for the trip. We start talking to our friend Renee and end up in line behind her. When the lady tells her the total for her purchase, Renee tells her to keep ringing us up! I was floored! She paid for all of our purchase as well as giving us some cash for "airport snacks". It was such a blessing and encouragement on a day that had been filled with battles starting at 5:00 am with a phone call from Liberia! God gave me a shot of encouragement just when I needed it and it was such a promise that He will provide! It was amazing!
So thank you, Renee, for blessing our socks off! And thank you God for perfect timing that encourages and restores!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
My final Thoughts from Liberia (written Dec 7)
I am sitting at the Monrovia airport. I hate this part of my trip. I hate leaving home and I hate leaving here. I feel like I am ripped in two every time I leave one place or the other. This trip has been the same as all the others, full of high highs and low lows! I have literally walked through fire and water this trip! Pictures to come!
This time, I stayed at the home with the children, so it is even harder. Leaving the home, the children all had sad faces as we said our good-byes. I just wanted to stuff them all in my suitcases. Even one of the matrons got tears in her eyes. Then telling Amos good-bye is difficult. I know the work he has ahead of him, and I so want to be here to help him with it. But I have family back home that needs me too!
My staff is amazing! God has blessed me beyond measure! From our driver, to our nannies, to my director! I have people who love the children and are loyal to Addy’s Hope. This time, I met an amazing man named Paul. One night, I was awakened by the screams of the children. I ran into the room and they along with the nannies were standing there. Two of the girls swore they saw someone standing in the corner that ran into the hall. We searched the whole house. There was no one there. I had total peace, and I knew if there was someone there, I would not! They were all convinced it was either a demon or one of the girl’s dead mother coming back to talk to her. I assured them whatever it was, if it was anything, was way weaker than God almighty! So for the next three hours they sang and prayed. That part was awesome! However, I had to get some sleep to get me through the next day.
But before I want to sleep, God used that incident to really make me aware of how badly we need spiritual guidance in our home. The thought crossed my mind: we have a nurse to care for them physically, why do we not have a pastor to care for them spiritually. So I talked to John, and he agreed. We now have a full time Pastor on staff. He is amazing! He loves the Lord, and wants to see people realize their potential in God. So he is going to start teaching the children, teaching the mentors and then going out to the villages where we are building and start getting to know them!
Speaking of the villages, I met the community leader today, Moses. He is so excited about the school! They don’t have a school in the community, and the closest one is on the main road. A child was hit by a car walking to school, so of course they don’t let their younger kids go there. We are right across the road from Rafiki Village. He said they promised to build a school, but then put a fence around it just for them. He asked why they couldn’t build one for the community. I told him I didn’t know, but I promised him his community kids would be allowed in our school! I also told him that we would get medical attention to them just as quickly as we can! I told him when the building was open; we would have a doctor come in at least on weekends. They die on their way to the hospital, just like Addy!
Honorable Gaye came out to the sight with his whole family. He gave me a traditional dress. I have wanted one but have not had time to shop, so I was so excited! It is pink and burgundy! He was excited to see we had broke ground. I told him we had a frustrating trip, and that I prayed they passed the bill for adoptions very quickly and made it workable! He assured me it would be one of the first items on the agenda. I told him when they get adoptions moving again, I would love to build a school in Nimba. That is his district and where most of our children have come from that are home now. I want to give back to there. He said a school would be the most beneficial. So that will be my first project when adoptions are moving!
There is still just so much to be done in Liberia. Still so many trying to keep it down. At an adoption awareness meeting I went to put on by the President’s Committee on Adoption, one of the government officials ran up in her black, air conditioned car with solid black windows, jumped out with her sunglasses on like she was from Hollywood. She ran into the room followed close behind by her Paige and her body guard. She was the one who actually did the adoption talk. She gave a completely negative impression of adoption. Then she said, “We have to figure out why so many of our children are being adopted. What do we need to do to fix this. Do we need family assistance programs, do we need education?” It took everything within my not to scream, ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! If you would roll down those dark windows when you are driving through you country, maybe you wouldn’t have to ask “do we?” Anyone with even a small brain cell can see that the country is in dire need of assistance!!!!! But this is the mentality we are dealing with. It is very difficult not to get discouraged! But as I hugged Amos, he whispered, “Take Courage!” And I told him with him on this side, I had no choice but to! And I turned to make my journey home….back to the land of opportunity where only by the Grace of God I was born instead of here, in the land of poverty! Oh how my heart aches for these people I am leaving! May God bless them, each and every one of them!
This time, I stayed at the home with the children, so it is even harder. Leaving the home, the children all had sad faces as we said our good-byes. I just wanted to stuff them all in my suitcases. Even one of the matrons got tears in her eyes. Then telling Amos good-bye is difficult. I know the work he has ahead of him, and I so want to be here to help him with it. But I have family back home that needs me too!
My staff is amazing! God has blessed me beyond measure! From our driver, to our nannies, to my director! I have people who love the children and are loyal to Addy’s Hope. This time, I met an amazing man named Paul. One night, I was awakened by the screams of the children. I ran into the room and they along with the nannies were standing there. Two of the girls swore they saw someone standing in the corner that ran into the hall. We searched the whole house. There was no one there. I had total peace, and I knew if there was someone there, I would not! They were all convinced it was either a demon or one of the girl’s dead mother coming back to talk to her. I assured them whatever it was, if it was anything, was way weaker than God almighty! So for the next three hours they sang and prayed. That part was awesome! However, I had to get some sleep to get me through the next day.
But before I want to sleep, God used that incident to really make me aware of how badly we need spiritual guidance in our home. The thought crossed my mind: we have a nurse to care for them physically, why do we not have a pastor to care for them spiritually. So I talked to John, and he agreed. We now have a full time Pastor on staff. He is amazing! He loves the Lord, and wants to see people realize their potential in God. So he is going to start teaching the children, teaching the mentors and then going out to the villages where we are building and start getting to know them!
Speaking of the villages, I met the community leader today, Moses. He is so excited about the school! They don’t have a school in the community, and the closest one is on the main road. A child was hit by a car walking to school, so of course they don’t let their younger kids go there. We are right across the road from Rafiki Village. He said they promised to build a school, but then put a fence around it just for them. He asked why they couldn’t build one for the community. I told him I didn’t know, but I promised him his community kids would be allowed in our school! I also told him that we would get medical attention to them just as quickly as we can! I told him when the building was open; we would have a doctor come in at least on weekends. They die on their way to the hospital, just like Addy!
Honorable Gaye came out to the sight with his whole family. He gave me a traditional dress. I have wanted one but have not had time to shop, so I was so excited! It is pink and burgundy! He was excited to see we had broke ground. I told him we had a frustrating trip, and that I prayed they passed the bill for adoptions very quickly and made it workable! He assured me it would be one of the first items on the agenda. I told him when they get adoptions moving again, I would love to build a school in Nimba. That is his district and where most of our children have come from that are home now. I want to give back to there. He said a school would be the most beneficial. So that will be my first project when adoptions are moving!
There is still just so much to be done in Liberia. Still so many trying to keep it down. At an adoption awareness meeting I went to put on by the President’s Committee on Adoption, one of the government officials ran up in her black, air conditioned car with solid black windows, jumped out with her sunglasses on like she was from Hollywood. She ran into the room followed close behind by her Paige and her body guard. She was the one who actually did the adoption talk. She gave a completely negative impression of adoption. Then she said, “We have to figure out why so many of our children are being adopted. What do we need to do to fix this. Do we need family assistance programs, do we need education?” It took everything within my not to scream, ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! If you would roll down those dark windows when you are driving through you country, maybe you wouldn’t have to ask “do we?” Anyone with even a small brain cell can see that the country is in dire need of assistance!!!!! But this is the mentality we are dealing with. It is very difficult not to get discouraged! But as I hugged Amos, he whispered, “Take Courage!” And I told him with him on this side, I had no choice but to! And I turned to make my journey home….back to the land of opportunity where only by the Grace of God I was born instead of here, in the land of poverty! Oh how my heart aches for these people I am leaving! May God bless them, each and every one of them!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Thursday in Liberia
Today was an awesome day! I really don't have the words..in fact, I was asked by the press to explain my excitment for the day, and I couldn't find anything to say! Shocking for me, I know! But let me try to explain for you.....
All I could say to John when I would call is, "I wish you were here!" I really don't know how to describe it! The day started with the press coming for a press conference here at the home. They set up a table that Amos, myself and one of the reps from the adoption coalition (actually the rep that is from the agency that we were adopting Eden and Addy from...God really does have a great sense of humor!)sat behind. Then the press set in chairs in front of us. Pastor Paul, an amazing man that is a friend of Amos that I have met on this trip said a prayer for us and Amos introduced me. When Amos sat down, all the press jumped up and put the video recorders, etc in front of me! I looked at Amos and said, "Wow!" and they all laughed! I explained our heart for Liberia, what we have done in the past, what we are doing now and named the families who have done things like the well, scholarship, books, etc. Then I asked if they had any questions. Boy did they! Wow! They HAMMERED me! One right after the other! But it was amazing! I don't really remember all that was said or asked...it was one of those times that you know the Holy Spirit was moving because I didn't think, the words just came! One of the questions was, "Since adoption is legal, what problems are you having and what ministry is the issue?" I nailed it! I just stuck it all out there and told exactly what had been said and done! I am usually really cautious for fear of retaliation, but I guess it needed to be said because it was out of my mouth before I knew it..totally not like me!
I could tell they were skeptical of what I was saying. One so much as said, so how will you make all these promises...and I said, "God!" I told them none of this is from me to begin with! It is what God laid on my heart, and I will continue it until He says stop.
From there, we went to the site of the new orphanage for the ground breaking. On the way there, I had about 45 minutes to think about all that I had just said. There were several things that I thought back on and went, "What?!" Where did that come from! One of them was that I told the press that we would have teachers who were trained to US standards at the school. What?! I have NEVER thought any such thing! And now I have told this group of men this?! If you know me, you know that my word is valuable to me! If I say, I mean it! I had said it, now what?! But even in that thought, God provided an idea. One, John and I could move there for a coupleo f weeks with all the kids this summer and train the teachers ourselves (I love that idea, John didn't like it so much!) or we could "hire" teachers who would be willing to go over there for a semester or a year on a missionary type job and teach while Liberian teachers observed and team taught. Then the American teacher would gradually turn the classroom over the the Liberian teachers. What a cool idea?! We could provide housing and minimal salary (what they would need to live here). That raises the money issue again, but since Kami's comment on my last money temper tantrum, I decided I wouldn't worry about it, trust God and plan to get busy on that when I get back!
So we arrived at the site and all walked to where the building will be put. The locals were busy clearing the brush. When everyone got there, we gathered around one of the remaining palm trees. It was just our little group and the press (no officals came that said they would, surprised?!) , but God was there! I don't know why I have been blessed to see the visible hand of God this way, but you could just feel His prescence. Some of the men from the village were there too, and it was amazing! Pastor Paul did the dedication and said a prayer that I know made the heavenlies shout for joy! It was awesome! I believe that there is a good chacne Pastor Paul is God's choice for a pastor for our church there on the compound! He is really amazing and has been a real encouragement to me on this trip! I am hoping to get him started in one of our school rooms as soon as the building is up!
Then we broke ground! Jeremy was all smiles as he should have been! What a time! We sang Liberian song of thanks. It was so good!
After we dedicated it, Amos said, "Come on HollyAnn, let's go find the end of the property!" Sure, I thought, I would love to. Mind you, I am in dress pants with very wide legs, a dress shirt and heels! When he grabbed the shovel and said he would take it "just in case", I should have caught a clue! So off we went. And I was in the bush! I even had to take off my shoes and pull up my pants to walk throug
h the creek that runs through our land. I did fall once, but when you fall in the bush, there is lots of soft greenery to catch you...doesn't hurt...well, nothing but our pride! We walked all the way to the end. When we got there, there was a cool breeze off the ocean and a really tall, beautiful palm tree, we all just stood there. It was so quiet! I said, I think I can just reach up and touch God right now! And I got goose bumps that lasted for thirty minutes!
h the creek that runs through our land. I did fall once, but when you fall in the bush, there is lots of soft greenery to catch you...doesn't hurt...well, nothing but our pride! We walked all the way to the end. When we got there, there was a cool breeze off the ocean and a really tall, beautiful palm tree, we all just stood there. It was so quiet! I said, I think I can just reach up and touch God right now! And I got goose bumps that lasted for thirty minutes!This evening, our story was on Star radio. After it aired Amos' phone started ringing! They did a fabulous job or reporting it. They stated we had a ground breaking ceremony, said that we would have a home and school, said we had $55000 USD for the project, then ended it by saying that we were having difficulties with the Ministry of Health, but hoped that they would be resolved. I nearly cried when I heard it! I knew God said "do a press conference", but oh I was scared! They can twist things here like no ones business! It was obvious that two or three that were here were not really that excited about adoption when they came, but by the time they left, they were laughing and joking with me and asking personal questions about the program. It was so neat!
Also, it was on the same news that the Executive Mansion released a statement that it is no longer rumor that the cabinet is being totally "shuffled". They said to expect changes in every ministry. This could be great for us! I really believe that the President is looking at adoption carefully and we will be protected in the new positions. We had already heard rumor that one official that we have BIG issues with would be leaving, but we didn't know if it was true. So please add to your prayer list that the men stopping us from processing adoptions smoothly would be removed and pro-children, pro-adoption, Christian people are put in those positions! This could be a HUGE opportunity for us!
I am going to leave you with a song the children taught me! They sing it very loud! It is just priceless! So here you go!
God is our Father
Jesus is our Brother
The Blessed Holy Spirit is our Guide
The Devil's no relation
I am a new creation
I'm a member of the family in the sky!
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Wednesday in Liberia
God moved today!
I don't know how much I can get down because I am tired, and it is almost 11, but I don't want to forget some of the thoughts God brought to mind today! This is the scripture God took me to last night: Psalm 10:14-15 "You [God] have been the helper of the orphan. Break the arm of the wicked and the evildoer, seek out his wickedness until You find none." Psalm 10:17-18 "You have heard the desire of the humble; You will strengthen their heart, You will incline Your ear to vindicate the orphan and the oppressed, so that man who is of the earth will no longer cause terror." I read this out loud all the way to the Ministry of Health with Amos and Pastor Paul, our driver, echoing amens in agreement! I believe God fulfilled His word!
The official who asked us to leave yesterday and make an appointment, never showed up for our appointment today...this seems to be a trend with me...that last man, the pastor of my last church never showed up for the meeting he set up either! But while we were waiting, a divine appointment happened with a lady who works in the ministry and is in charge of case histories. I shared our history as she is new. I gave her the article written about us and told her why we are so frustrated! She had to run to a meeting but said that she would be at our ground breaking tomorrow!
Yes, we are breaking ground officially tomorrow! We are also dedicating the property to God! We are so excited! Two, possibly three Congressmen will also be there! We are also having a press conference to share what Addy's Hope has done here in Liberia besides adoption to educate the people on our heart for the entire country! I am so excited, pray that I say what needs to be said for God to get the glory! He deserves it all! There is NO WAY I can do any of this!
When we signed the deed today for the land, the man doing it said, "I have never seen a deal go through this quickly, God must be in this!" Then he told us he wants to pray over the deed before he hands it to us to dedicate it to God! We had not discussed religion, our purpose for the building or anything with him! He just came out and said that! Praise God! That means that people are seeing God in what is happening, and not us! It was really neat moment!
I have so much more to say, but it is 11, and tomorrow is a BIG day! We still need things to break loose for adoptions, but I believe we might be on the right track! Well, I know we are because God is in control! He has sent me here, He has arranged all the meetings, and He has provided the funds to do what we do! Now we just have to continue to walk in obedience and faith, fight the fight and continue on!
I don't know how much I can get down because I am tired, and it is almost 11, but I don't want to forget some of the thoughts God brought to mind today! This is the scripture God took me to last night: Psalm 10:14-15 "You [God] have been the helper of the orphan. Break the arm of the wicked and the evildoer, seek out his wickedness until You find none." Psalm 10:17-18 "You have heard the desire of the humble; You will strengthen their heart, You will incline Your ear to vindicate the orphan and the oppressed, so that man who is of the earth will no longer cause terror." I read this out loud all the way to the Ministry of Health with Amos and Pastor Paul, our driver, echoing amens in agreement! I believe God fulfilled His word!
The official who asked us to leave yesterday and make an appointment, never showed up for our appointment today...this seems to be a trend with me...that last man, the pastor of my last church never showed up for the meeting he set up either! But while we were waiting, a divine appointment happened with a lady who works in the ministry and is in charge of case histories. I shared our history as she is new. I gave her the article written about us and told her why we are so frustrated! She had to run to a meeting but said that she would be at our ground breaking tomorrow!
Yes, we are breaking ground officially tomorrow! We are also dedicating the property to God! We are so excited! Two, possibly three Congressmen will also be there! We are also having a press conference to share what Addy's Hope has done here in Liberia besides adoption to educate the people on our heart for the entire country! I am so excited, pray that I say what needs to be said for God to get the glory! He deserves it all! There is NO WAY I can do any of this!
When we signed the deed today for the land, the man doing it said, "I have never seen a deal go through this quickly, God must be in this!" Then he told us he wants to pray over the deed before he hands it to us to dedicate it to God! We had not discussed religion, our purpose for the building or anything with him! He just came out and said that! Praise God! That means that people are seeing God in what is happening, and not us! It was really neat moment!
I have so much more to say, but it is 11, and tomorrow is a BIG day! We still need things to break loose for adoptions, but I believe we might be on the right track! Well, I know we are because God is in control! He has sent me here, He has arranged all the meetings, and He has provided the funds to do what we do! Now we just have to continue to walk in obedience and faith, fight the fight and continue on!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Tuesday Night
I will attempt to post...I have little Courage sitting on my bed playing with a puzzle, but she just became keenly interested in the computer! She touches it and grins...and is getting closer and closer to the keys! All the other kids are in the living room watching the new "desk" aka: DVD player! I brought movies for them. They just finished Barney and Bibleman and are now watching an animated Bible.
Today we went to the Embassy and met with the Consular. We got some wonderful information and plan to implement some things with new kids...which will cost more money! So if anyone wonders why we charge the fees we do, I will be happy to share with them all this costs that pop up!
Then we went to the Ministry of Health to get an appointment with the man that controls the main reason I am here....case histories! When we walked in, he was standing there, couldn't avoid me, so we went in to talk. The first thing he says is that there was a 2 week old baby in his office just then that was in need of care. I immediatly said, we will care for her! So he picks up his phone to call the mom. Couldn't get her, but said he would let her know. The bottom line is a lady looking for help for her child came to him, and he sent her away! But this is the office that is telling us adoptions shouldnt happen? So by the time we got done with our round the bush conversation, I just came out and told him that I was not holding my adoptive parents off any longer as it looked to me like we had a human rights issue. If they cannot care for kids and would prefer to keep them on the streets, starving, without education and clothes, then seems to me we have a human rights issue! I told him that I would no longer ask my adoptive parents to not conatct their senators, etc to voice their concern over a government that would let their children starve rather than be adopted. At that time he said we would need to end our conversation so he could eat his food and we could make an appointment to come back. He said I could calm down and come in relaxed and kicked back like him. I laughed and told him I was relaxed and calm. He hasn't seen me any where near riled up yet! I am not Liberian in that way! So this man who would glady give us a baby to care for, doesn't want us to do adoptions! Craziness! I just don't understand! I am really trying, but I don't get it!
On the funner side of things, when we were headed into town, we dropped one of the matrons off with Alphonso the youngest baby we have ever had inthe home. I got to hold him in the car, and he laughed and laughed! He was just precious! But my heart sank as I knew it would be months before his new mom could hold him and he woudl change so much! The babies are the hardest for me because I know how I would feel if my tiny baby was changing every day in my abscence! Toben was a little easier as he didn't change that much in the time we watied, but babies change every day!
After the ministry of health, we went to the baby store! I had a blast! I bought two baby beds, a walker , some more baby dolls for the girls and a musical mobile to put inthe crib. I need to get more beds to put in the container as I think we can find some at garage sales, etc cheaper, but we need beds now for these babies! I want our home to be as excellent as it can be since we represent God's work.
After that we went to lunch. I had one of those moments that you just think God planted you in. Earlier, I had been talking to the driver, and found out that he desires to Pastor a church, spread the gospel and shepherd God's people. Over lunch we talked more, and he shared his heart on the body of Christ. We have the same heart! It was so neat to hear him! I had wondered earlier if he might be the pastor for the church we want to put out on the compound, and after hearing him, I think he just might be!
We all sat around dreaming about what we need...the home, a school, and what the man told Jeremy today is a clinic! He says that even when they can afford to go to get medical attention, they die before they get to the hospital. So clinic got moved up on the list. We just need money! They got to see me throw my tempertantrum about how I hate money!!!! So I have to get home and get to work on raising funds for all of this!
When we got home this afternoon, I started sorting through the BOXES of books two of our wonderful families collected and sent over here. The kids started looking through them, and I got excited! I have to just make sure the staff knows the books are to be USED and not just sit there!
Well, I need to let Jeremy e-mail his wife! So I am going to sign off. Serena has come in to sit on my bed, and Courage is not to happy about sharing her puzzle!
Today we went to the Embassy and met with the Consular. We got some wonderful information and plan to implement some things with new kids...which will cost more money! So if anyone wonders why we charge the fees we do, I will be happy to share with them all this costs that pop up!
Then we went to the Ministry of Health to get an appointment with the man that controls the main reason I am here....case histories! When we walked in, he was standing there, couldn't avoid me, so we went in to talk. The first thing he says is that there was a 2 week old baby in his office just then that was in need of care. I immediatly said, we will care for her! So he picks up his phone to call the mom. Couldn't get her, but said he would let her know. The bottom line is a lady looking for help for her child came to him, and he sent her away! But this is the office that is telling us adoptions shouldnt happen? So by the time we got done with our round the bush conversation, I just came out and told him that I was not holding my adoptive parents off any longer as it looked to me like we had a human rights issue. If they cannot care for kids and would prefer to keep them on the streets, starving, without education and clothes, then seems to me we have a human rights issue! I told him that I would no longer ask my adoptive parents to not conatct their senators, etc to voice their concern over a government that would let their children starve rather than be adopted. At that time he said we would need to end our conversation so he could eat his food and we could make an appointment to come back. He said I could calm down and come in relaxed and kicked back like him. I laughed and told him I was relaxed and calm. He hasn't seen me any where near riled up yet! I am not Liberian in that way! So this man who would glady give us a baby to care for, doesn't want us to do adoptions! Craziness! I just don't understand! I am really trying, but I don't get it!
On the funner side of things, when we were headed into town, we dropped one of the matrons off with Alphonso the youngest baby we have ever had inthe home. I got to hold him in the car, and he laughed and laughed! He was just precious! But my heart sank as I knew it would be months before his new mom could hold him and he woudl change so much! The babies are the hardest for me because I know how I would feel if my tiny baby was changing every day in my abscence! Toben was a little easier as he didn't change that much in the time we watied, but babies change every day!
After the ministry of health, we went to the baby store! I had a blast! I bought two baby beds, a walker , some more baby dolls for the girls and a musical mobile to put inthe crib. I need to get more beds to put in the container as I think we can find some at garage sales, etc cheaper, but we need beds now for these babies! I want our home to be as excellent as it can be since we represent God's work.
After that we went to lunch. I had one of those moments that you just think God planted you in. Earlier, I had been talking to the driver, and found out that he desires to Pastor a church, spread the gospel and shepherd God's people. Over lunch we talked more, and he shared his heart on the body of Christ. We have the same heart! It was so neat to hear him! I had wondered earlier if he might be the pastor for the church we want to put out on the compound, and after hearing him, I think he just might be!
We all sat around dreaming about what we need...the home, a school, and what the man told Jeremy today is a clinic! He says that even when they can afford to go to get medical attention, they die before they get to the hospital. So clinic got moved up on the list. We just need money! They got to see me throw my tempertantrum about how I hate money!!!! So I have to get home and get to work on raising funds for all of this!
When we got home this afternoon, I started sorting through the BOXES of books two of our wonderful families collected and sent over here. The kids started looking through them, and I got excited! I have to just make sure the staff knows the books are to be USED and not just sit there!
Well, I need to let Jeremy e-mail his wife! So I am going to sign off. Serena has come in to sit on my bed, and Courage is not to happy about sharing her puzzle!
Monday Night
I am really not sure where to start! This is my fourth time to Liberia, but my first time to not stay in a hotel. The hotels make it seem like a mini vacation. Staying with no working shower and no a/c makes it a bit different! I don’t get to “escape” Liberia at night when I go into my air conditioned hotel room with great power, sour, etc. So this trip has been a bit more challenging. I have official appointments tomorrow, and I am not quite sure how I am going to get my hair dried and make up on with the buckets of sweat that poured off of me this morning! Not having hot water is really not a problem as the cold water feels wonderful! J
The other major difficulty is going to the bathroom! I thought it was tough with four kids, try 60! I have little voices calling through my bedroom window, “Mother HollyAnn, where are you?” To which I try to ignore….that doesn’t work, so I say, “go play”! We repeat that several times and I am finally asked if I am in the bath! I say, no, but I want you to go play! That one leaves, but with in a couple of minutes, a new little voice is starting the routine over!
But for those few downfalls, there are great benefits! I carried baby Solomon on my back tonight until he fell asleep. I rocked Courage to sleep, and then held Matthew and played with him on my bed while my country director and I figured money for the next month with all the new kids! Then I had a heart attack looking at our overhead! Well, not really, but I thought about it! God has always provided, so I will trust Him to continue to do so!
The kids LOVE to have their picture taken and then want to see it, so I am swarmed when I have my camera on my neck! I finally had to go put it up so I could walk without falling over anyone.
We got one major thing accomplished today – We decided on the land to buy and put a down payment. The papers should be all ready to go by Wednesday. That means Jeremy might actually get to break ground this week! That is really exciting!
I have the same issues this time as I always do! I wonder why it is that they think America has it so great? They are so much happier here, so much more appreciative of little things. But then again, I think of my a/c and the little things that make life easier. Two totally different worlds, yet I think we have so much to learn from each other! But as I hold these kids, I am furious that what we are trying to do to help them and others is made so difficult by the government! Why would they not want any of their people to have an easier time? Very frustrating! I just pray that when I meet with these people that God will give me the boldness to say what I need to and the strength to hold my tongue when I need to do that as well!
We are planning a party for Saturday where we will hand out the gifts from the families. For the boys, nothing will top the soccer equipment that he brought! Boots (cleats) and jerseys were the big hit! And of course they needed new balls already as they played too hard with the others I had sent and busted them! I didn’t know you could bust a soccer ball, but evidently it is possible!
I am tired, so I am calling it a night. Still not totally sure what I will get accomplished this trip, but I just felt God said “Go!” So I came. Praying I will remain obedient and accomplish all that He has for me!
Good night from Liberia!
The other major difficulty is going to the bathroom! I thought it was tough with four kids, try 60! I have little voices calling through my bedroom window, “Mother HollyAnn, where are you?” To which I try to ignore….that doesn’t work, so I say, “go play”! We repeat that several times and I am finally asked if I am in the bath! I say, no, but I want you to go play! That one leaves, but with in a couple of minutes, a new little voice is starting the routine over!
But for those few downfalls, there are great benefits! I carried baby Solomon on my back tonight until he fell asleep. I rocked Courage to sleep, and then held Matthew and played with him on my bed while my country director and I figured money for the next month with all the new kids! Then I had a heart attack looking at our overhead! Well, not really, but I thought about it! God has always provided, so I will trust Him to continue to do so!
The kids LOVE to have their picture taken and then want to see it, so I am swarmed when I have my camera on my neck! I finally had to go put it up so I could walk without falling over anyone.
We got one major thing accomplished today – We decided on the land to buy and put a down payment. The papers should be all ready to go by Wednesday. That means Jeremy might actually get to break ground this week! That is really exciting!
I have the same issues this time as I always do! I wonder why it is that they think America has it so great? They are so much happier here, so much more appreciative of little things. But then again, I think of my a/c and the little things that make life easier. Two totally different worlds, yet I think we have so much to learn from each other! But as I hold these kids, I am furious that what we are trying to do to help them and others is made so difficult by the government! Why would they not want any of their people to have an easier time? Very frustrating! I just pray that when I meet with these people that God will give me the boldness to say what I need to and the strength to hold my tongue when I need to do that as well!
We are planning a party for Saturday where we will hand out the gifts from the families. For the boys, nothing will top the soccer equipment that he brought! Boots (cleats) and jerseys were the big hit! And of course they needed new balls already as they played too hard with the others I had sent and busted them! I didn’t know you could bust a soccer ball, but evidently it is possible!
I am tired, so I am calling it a night. Still not totally sure what I will get accomplished this trip, but I just felt God said “Go!” So I came. Praying I will remain obedient and accomplish all that He has for me!
Good night from Liberia!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Coming to you from Belgium!
Well, I have made it this far! Jeremy and I are in Belgium....poor Jeremy, we missed connecting in Jewark. I thought he was already on the plane, so I got on, and he wasn't, and he waited for me and was the last one on the plane! But we are now connected and sitting at the gate waiting to board.
I am still not feeling great, but doing ok. Thought my ears were going to explode landing in Brussels, but other than that, I am holding my own!
Hope to post from Liberia daily so you can keep up with what is going on...at least as much as I can post on a public forum! :)
Pray for my family! I left the house a mess and no groceries in the cupboard. My sweet husband says it is fine, but I feel like a horrible wife and mom! Pray for my kids as they always try to be brave, but as Callie said on the way to the airport this morning, "I am less afraid now than I was the first time you went, but I still get a little scared!" They are great kids! I am blessed!
I am still not feeling great, but doing ok. Thought my ears were going to explode landing in Brussels, but other than that, I am holding my own!
Hope to post from Liberia daily so you can keep up with what is going on...at least as much as I can post on a public forum! :)
Pray for my family! I left the house a mess and no groceries in the cupboard. My sweet husband says it is fine, but I feel like a horrible wife and mom! Pray for my kids as they always try to be brave, but as Callie said on the way to the airport this morning, "I am less afraid now than I was the first time you went, but I still get a little scared!" They are great kids! I am blessed!
Monday, July 14, 2008
Headed to Liberia!
I am officiallly headed to Liberia. Just got the flights booked this morning! After my last trip, I really thought I would be anxious, but I am not. That is what being in the will of God does....gives you peace! I am very excited to go back, to see the kids in the home again, to work on getting cases further down the pipeline, and maybe to even visit Toben's home county! That is not confirmed yet, but I made a promise last time I was there and intend to keep it if at all possible!
Pray for me and my sweet family as times before I travel are always stressful! Adoptive families need more help and my kids need more reassuring as they know their mommy is about to head halfway across the world. I am anxious about leaving TOben so early, but God has made it clear it is time for me to go. So I trust (most days!) Him to care for TOben and make right any wrongs I am doing by leaving for this period of time so soon after his home coming. God knew when He made Toben and when He placed him in our home what I would be doing in response to His call, so I place my trust in that and try not to be a worrying mother!
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