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Morning Devotional...





We have received... that spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given us of God. 1 Corinthians 2:12


We live in a mixed-up kind of world in which many people are not at all sure of what they believe or what they ought to believe. Some churches advertise that way-you do not have to believe anything: "just be a seeker after truth." Some actually settle for poetry, siding with Edwin Markham who "saw his bright hand sending signals from the sun." I, for one, never had any such signals from God. We have Bibles everywhere and the gospel is preached faithfully. Yet men and women seek God in old altars and tombs-in dark and dusty places, and finally wind up believing that God is sending signals from the sun. Some folks get mad at me when I say that this kind of "seeking after truth" needs to be exposed. We need to double our efforts in telling the world that God is spirit and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth.It must be the Truth of God and the Spirit of God! Far from being an optional luxury in our Christian lives, the presence and the power of the Holy Spirit is a necessity!


We need to double our efforts in telling the world that God is spirit and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth.



Lord, give me strength to let people know that you are the only way to salvation. May I be used to point people away from vain attempts at fulfillment.

From Devotions By Dr. Tozer

Great devotional, Don.  We need to know, and be ready to say, that there is One Truth, and that is God.

Don, what a good devotional reading to get us started on this new page.

May our Lord be with all those who have the characteristics pointed out in the Beatitudes. For He alone will be with us through these times.

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

Don Thank you for the devotional good thoughts to keep in mind.

Well I'm back It looks like the rain has stopped so I need to leash up the dogs one at a time and take them for their walks. I need the walks too.

I can't wait to get my new camera. Gilbert bought Savannah (my  15 year old grand) a Nikon D3100 with the case and two lenses, boy oh boy would I ever like to have that camera.

Thank you Don.   What a good message for all of us to start out this new week with.

Thanks, Don, for those good thoughts to start our week out right.

I am waiting--not too patiently--for further word of Shirley.......

I work tomorrow.

Thanks Don.  So many in our day are trying to find compromises with various ideas and offshoots of Biblical truth.  They don't want to "offend" anyone, but they are offending the God of truth.  We must not compromise with essentials.

Hello everyone on C.P.!! I just went back and realized that I had not posted anything since May 26!!
I must have been REALLY busy!! With additional responsibilities added to my already busy schedule I will have to prioritize!!
   :tiredtread:
Just today I read last week's posts and tried to catch up on some of the prayer requests. Praying for you all and especially the special needs mentioned last week.
I'll be traveling tomorrow to Toronto and back .... so will not have a chance 'til Tuesday to catch up on previous posts.

God bless you all...

RuthV

Drive safe Ruth!

Don thank you for the devotional, and all that entailed!

John is back to work, and he is already missed!

Thanks, Don, for the great devotion!

Busy weekend.  But a lazy one.  Every since starting Zyrtec, I want to sleep a lot!  But it is really helping me and I love to sleep anyway! 

Rehab today.  I am driving and either Teresa or Jo is at Ivalou's and is going with us.  Maybe I can talk to one of them...see if either of them has rode with Ivalou while driving.  I am thinking that I am the only person that has rode with her.  I mentioned her Friday driving to the ladies who went out to eat after church and they seemed to give Ivalou excuses for her driving.  So I just asked them if they have rode with her.  NO.  So I said that I have and I don't feel safe riding with her!  I will ask from now on if she wants me to drive my car or her car. 

Off I go to rehab!

Hi everyone.  The sky is clear and it is going to be another beautiful, but hot, day here in Georgia.  It was really nice yesterday and didn't get too hot, not that I was out in it very much.  I did attend church and then stop and pick up something for lunch as Pat wasn't up to going yesterday.  

Today the housekeepers come and the yard people.  It has been 4 weeks since the housekeepers were here so they have a bit to do.  I have my men's luncheon, as usual, on Monday and then this evening have an activity.  So it will be a busy day.

Janet, wonderful that Shirley had the foresight to get that medical insurance as it has been and is being a blessing to her on this mission trip.  She will always know that she gave it her best on this mission.  Know you will be glad to see her get home or at least back to the USA.

Etta Sue, sounds like it is time for a serious discussion with her children as she may be at the stage of being dangerous to herself and others when she drives.  It is a hard place to be in.  I agree with you in not wanting to ride with her anymore unless you drive.

Marilyn, you are going to be able to take some very large pictures with a 14 megapixel camera.  I am sure you will enjoy it.

Don, thanks for devotional thought for this week.  

RuthV, it sounds like you have been very busy.  We have missed your postings.

Just thought you'd all like to enjoy this video from Colin our wee maun over in N'Orn Iron (Northern Ireland)...


http://vimeo.com/26517783

I really enjoyed the video, Pat. Thanks for bringing it to us. Hopefully, Colin will join us from time to time. His poetry is beautiful.

It's plenty hot outdoors, and I dont have too much to say other than it's time to put on my "uniform" and be the White Tornado that hits this apartment!  ::)

Much love to all who come here.

Ruth Ann

Nice video--fresh as a daisy!  ;)

I was up early, worked 7 1/2 hours, home and took a nice nap!  Work was challenging today, as they hired someone to rearrange all the neighborhood kitchens and put things in the same place in all of them.  Most of it made sense, except for putting the microwave under the ice machine, where you practically have to stand on your head to use it!  :-\  I was there a half-hour early and needed that time, as nothing had been restocked, tables weren't "set" (with place mats, napkins and silverware) etc.  But I made it through another day!

Tomorrow I work at the fair.  And if I am going to enter any art work, must get it ready to go!

Beth got a package from John.  (Imagine that!)  He is always so thoughtful and kind to her.  Gotta love that guy!

And, finally!  More news from Shirley!

Everyone...
Finally a phone call from Eli..Come to find out he was told that we would be recieving updates from Med-Vac just as he did..But none of us here have gotten a phone call..He told me when he recieves another phone call he will get that cleared up..Shirley is in the hospital in Johannesberg, South Africa..They got her hip put back into place and wrapped..She will be there for the next 2 days for sure..The Dr. said she needed to stay off of it and allow the swelling to go down before she continues the trip back to the states..Eli said she is holding up real well and is happy to just have the experience of being in S. Africa..The medical care she is recieving is great..I am still not sure if she will be arriving in Kansas City via a Med-Vac plane or on a continental flight..But plans are still in place to have her taken to KU Medical Center to be checked over and see what the next step is..Eli told me when she had the hip put back in the previous 2 times she was told to rest it for a week but she refused to ( imagine that..lol..) but it was because she new this trip was more than likely a once in a lifebtime trip and nothing was going to hold her back..But you know God may have other trips in store for Shirley..So, maybe resting it and allowing the muscles and tendons to heal is just what she needs and only what she needs..That's what I am prayerfully hoping..I will send another update to all of you as I get updates...I still have a real peace about this entire situation..I know God has Shirley in the best care and right where she needs to be at this time..Keep prayers going because they are working.Love to All...Leanne

Thanks for the update, Janet.   :thumbsup:

Thanks Janet for the update...

Yes, hopefully Colin will come in and share his poetry with us.  I just love it.

Janet; Thank you for the update on Shirley I will keep praying for her.

Larry I can't wait to see  how the clarity will be in the photos taken with my new camera. It will be shipped straight from Fuji and is due to be shipped by Aug 11. Plus I have the latest PSP program too.

Thank you Janet for the updates.

I am sure you are excited about the camera Marilyn

I have been corrected about the bird in our roof.  It is a Wood Falcon.  Kassie's boyfriend corrected us.  I am going to try to get John's camera lens changed  (F50) to the telephoto and  ger some decent pictures.  They were chasing the hawks away today.  I went out and could still hear the babies.

Kass is at work and I have to leave soon to pick her up.

Bye foe now
Judy

Hi, friends, I thought I'd peek in once more before heading to bed.

It's so good that they're taking better care of Shirley. And, I understand her strong desire to keep on going, although it certainly has cost her a LOT of pain.

Our Father has been with her, I'm certain, and she'll soon be better.

So good to hear from everyone.

Y'all have a great evening.

Ruth Ann

Thanks for another update for Shirley and Africa!  So interesting!

Rehab went fine.  I didn't say anything to Jo since her Mom and her are closerthanthis.  Whatever I would tell her, she would tell her Mom.  Don't want any friction.  And from what I see, Friday will be the last day we will ride together to rehab. 

Then I got my DirecTv bill.  I was charged for Starz Monthly.  I didn't do that.  I got it free for 3 months but only watched a few movies...less than 5.  So I called them.  Weren't you told you have to call to say you don't want Starz?  NO!  I was not!  So I am getting a credit for that.  Then they asked if there was anything else they could help me so I said is there any way I can make my bill cheaper?  So I now have Select package instead of Choice.  Quite a bit cheaper!  And so far the only channel that I may miss is the Animal Planet channel.

I wonder if I have to call OnStar and XM radio to tell them I don't want either after the trial period?

Today I take Hawaii to get her boo boo fixed.  Enterprise Car Rental is to be there with a car for me.  Not sure if I have to take the man back to Noblesville or another person from Enterprise is coming to get him.  I should have Hawaii back Thursday. 

And Euchre was cancelled today due to some family problems for the hostess.  She wants to reschedule later. 

It is already 81 degrees!!  And heading to 93 degrees!  With a heat index of way over 100 degrees!!  Whew! 

Hi everyone.  Going to be another hot day here in Georgia.  Not much on the schedule today other than an activity this morning.  

Pat, thanks for sharing Colin's video link.  It sure is green over there and his garden is beautiful and must really be big.  I like the way he has the paths laid out.

Ruth Ann, hope you only had to be a "tropical wind" and not a "white tornado" yesterday.  :)

Janet, I bet John gets just as much enjoyment out of planning and sending the package of Beth gets from opening it when it arrives.  Sweet couple.  It sounds like you are working too hard again.  Tsk, Tsk.  Thanks for the update on Shirley.

Etta Sue, as I recall when I set up the XM Radio on our car I had to give a credit card and I did call them to cancel.  You may be able to do that online.  When I have a deadline, such as a three month trial, I try to set up a reminder on my calendar on my desk and also on my computer so I get an e-mail reminder a couple of days before action needs to be taken. 

I have another "goodie" to share this morning that a friend sent me. 

RECALL NOTICE:

The Maker of all human beings (GOD) is recalling all units manufactured,
regardless of make or year, due to a serious defect in the primary and central
component of the heart.

This is due to a malfunction in the original prototype units code named Adam and Eve, resulting in the reproduction of the same defect in all subsequent units.

This defect has been technically termed "Sub-sequential Internal Non-Morality," or more commonly known as S.I.N., as it is primarily expressed.

Some of the symptoms include:
1. Loss of direction
2. Foul vocal emissions
3. Amnesia of origin
4. Lack of peace and joy
5. Selfish or violent behavior
6. Depression or confusion in the mental component
7. Fearfulness
8. Idolatry
9. Rebellion

The Manufacturer, who is neither liable nor at fault for this defect, is
providing factory-authorized repair and service free of charge to correct this
defect.

The Repair Technician, (JESUS), has most generously offered to bear the entire burden of the staggering cost of these repairs. There is no additional fee required.

The number to call for repair in all areas is: P-R-A-Y-E-R.
Once connected, please upload your burden of SIN through
the REPENTANCE procedure. Next, download ATONEMENT from the Repair Technician, Jesus, into the heart component.

No matter how big or small the SIN defect is, Jesus will replace it with:
1. Love
2. Joy
3. Peace
4. Patience
5. Kindness
6. Goodness
7. Faithfulness
8. Gentleness
9. Self control

Please see the operating manual, the B.I.B.L.E. (Basic Instructions Before
Leaving Earth) for further details on the use of these fixes.

WARNING: Continuing to operate the human being unit without correction voids any manufacturer warranties, exposing the unit to dangers and problems too numerous to list and will result in the human unit being permanently impounded. For free emergency service, call on Jesus.

DANGER:The human being units not responding to this recall action will have to be scrapped in the furnace. The SIN defect will not be permitted to enter Heaven so as to prevent contamination of that facility. Thank you for your attention!

GOD

P.S. Please assist where possible by notifying others of this important recall
notice, and you may contact the Father any time by 'Knee mail'! 

Because He Lives!

I love your stories Larry.  Just read this to Kass, and she says it makes us out to be robots!  We are because of the "sin component!" We can't think for ourselves because of the sin component!  Great lesson

Having tea with my morning reading.  You are welcome to your coffee, I love my tea.

Have a great day everyone.

The falcon babies are gone. The trees surrounding the house are full of crows/rooks. Yesterday I saw the parents trying to chase them off. Even the parents are gone. It is sad when things like this happens.

Another good one, Larry.  Thanks!   :)

Judy, yes it's sad, but that's Nature, and all according to God's plan.

OK I take that back.  The parents are still there.  I haven't been out to hear if the babies are safe but the parents just flew from the nest.  The crows/rooks are gone...no cawing out there at all.  Peace.  I wonder if the parents were in the nest covering the babies to keep them quiet thereby protecting them.  I will go out in a bit and listen.  I wonder who would know about falcon behaviour?

NO there are no babies chirping.

Kass and BF have gone out for the day.  I will be alone till about 10 tonight.  Peaceful in the house as well.  Kass is a real chatterbug, and silence is nice once in a while.

Meet Logan

How precious to know that His message IS being communicated. If not by adults, then how better than for Him to send such a simple message to us straight from the lips of a child.

It's such a blessing to come here and read and leave refreshed. Today God gave me strength to help a cousin in sorting through our dear late Mabel's apartment. It's amazing how far Mabel's godly influence is spreading. What a blessing to see this. I found 2 nickels in the floor and gave to Nancy, who quoted from Mabel's will "any currency found in the apartment is to be donated to Kentucky Mountain Bible College." And, they wanted her computer to go to a church - my tiny church has been seeking for a computer for about a year so that our pastor's sermons may be posted on the church website, thus allowing those who could not attend church to stay current by listening in online. :) And, the list of blessings goes on and on.

Also through Freecycle, which JudyB mentioned here a while back, I received enough material for our sewing and crafts groups (who are currently making comforters, jackets, and caps for the homeless) plenty of beautiful material and even thread and some patterns to make the task even easier. :) Think: "pressed down, shaken together, and running over" as the Bible tells us - it ended up being 2 shopping carts filled to the brim in the top and on the bottom shelf!!

And the day ended up with a dinner with a close friend who once was one of my managers. And, by delivering that computer and its peripherals to the church. I was even able to carry the heavy monitor quite a distance to the closet where I placed it.

Thank you, God, for all your many blessings!

Much love to you all,
Ruth Ann

Now for the rest of the story.  I went out to listen and watch.   There is only one falcon left here, looks like the babies and probably the female are killed.  Alex said the large crows are ravens.  The one falcon left sat in a tree opposite the nest calling and calling.  There was no answer.  She may be hurt or off in the bush somewhere, but she is not with him and he was calling.  He has now gone too.  The thing about falcons is they mate for life.  So sad.  Yes it is nature, but He sees a sparrow fall......
It was really wierd going out and seeing these huge birds in all the trees cawing and cawing.  They weren't moving just looking at the nest on the one side and the birds on the other side of the house, looking at the house, just cawing.  Really wierd.

With Kassie gone I got a lot of computer work done that I have procrastinated in doing.  There is more but I did get a lot done.  Alex's soccer team lost the soccer game, he didn't see too upset about it, I suspect the weather was an influencing factor.

Hey Pat John is in Guelph!  He is sleeping in the truck, and delivering tomorrow.  I can't see the video's as dial-up is too slow.

Ruth Ann you got a lot done, that leaves you feeling really rewarded doesn't it!

Janet and Etta Sue, you make me tired just reading about your days.  Have a good night tonight ladies!

I am off to bed, Kass has physio tomorrow so I will be up and at it early.

Oops!  I got behind in here somehow.  I am working at the fair again today, but wanted to say hello.  I will be back later and post the latest update from Africa...am so relieved my sister is getting great medical care in Johannesburg, South Africa and will be home soon.

I have skipped over a lot of posts as must get out to the fair to assist the judge...I promise to read each one carefully when I get back home.

Beastly hot here....106 yesterday!  I'm really glad I do not have to be working outdoors at the fair!  I feel for all those with the livestock, and the livestock, too!

Hi everyone.  A quiet day here as no place I need to go today.  May get some rain later and it is going to be hot and humid.

Janet, hope where you are judging is air conditioned.

Ruth Ann, wonderful work you are doing helping others and benefiting your church.  A friend recently gave Pat a lot of material which included 6 cut out quillo's (which are a little quilt with a built in pocket where it can be folded up and placed in that pocket.  There was a lot of other material as well.

Judy, sad about the falcons but nature often seems very cruel to we humans.  It is God's plan however.

That video makes me cry every time!  Sure cleans the head out and fills up your heart!  Logan is something else. 

I am driving a black Nissan Altima.  Hawaii should be done tomorrow some time. 

Ivalou's birthday is Friday and we have rehab.  I am wanting to take her to a restaurant in a town south of Noblesville for lunch....thus me driving!  I think she has been there before but I haven't.  I just know they are known for great breaded tenderloin sandwiches...yum!!!

I have clothes hanging on the line.  Since my bushes are trimmed and I can get to my lines, (an umbrella clothes line) I decided I can hang out my clothes again instead of running the dryer!  My light bill almost doubled from last month to this month, so I would rather not use my dryer than not use A/C!!  :thumbsup:

Ivalou's daughter, Jo, went home last evening.  This morning Ivalou got her driveway sealed.  Mine didn't need it this year!  Ivalou's car is sitting by my garage.  Every time I look out a south window, I wonder whose car is that!!!

I made a chicken salad for lunch.  Sounds so good! 

Hot and hazy today!  Not as high of temps as Janet but it is the humidity that gets us in Indiana!  It is to get to 94 degrees but with the humidity the heat index will make it feel like 108 or 109!  Stay inside weather.  My grass is turning brown so no mowing until it gets a good soaking with rain!

Larry, you posted while I was composing.  Remember the dish clothes I knitted for my neighbor?  She said she would give me a quillo for the work.  I haven't seen it yet, tho! 

Going to be HHH the next two or three days.  And I absolutely must get to the store so I'd better get started before it gets any hotter.  If I don't melt in the meanwhile, I'll see you later!   :lol:

Hi Pat, thanks for sharing that message from Logan

Can you post that on facebook; I would love to pass it along to others.

thanks

Whew!  I made it out and back before the really hot, sticky stuff hit.   And I haven't melted at all - not even any of the extra pounds.   :)

Hi Joyce...

I did post it on Facebook just before coming here to post it.  If you can't get it, let me know.

Etta Sue, can you please send me some of that chicken salad?  Sounds just about right for me.  What do you put in it?  I have 1/2 a cooked chicken breast that I brought home on Sat. night from the Swiss Chalet that I couldn't eat as I was too full so that sounds just about right for me to eat maybe tonight.

Janet, stay in the A/C!!!  I'm just taking a wee rest from cleaning out the cupboard under my kitchen sink (what a job!!!) and then washing the kitchen floor so came in here to sit in front of the fan to cool down a little.

Thanks, Pat

Howdy one and all I want to thank  those who have clicked like on my Grafx by Marilyn Facebook page. I am working on getting more  images added  but I am only choosing those not made from a tutorial only those designed by me.

I went to the  Farmer's Market today and bought some spinach, Broccoli and Cucumbers. I sliced the Cucumbers and made Marinated Cucumbers, I also baked a German Chocolate Cake, it is cooling and I will get it frosted before Keith gets home for lunch.

Not much new around her. It is a beautiful day here on the Oregon coast. 64°, it is supposed to be windy this afternoon.

Pat yesterday I cleaned out the silverware draw and that was sure a job too. there was stuff that had been spilled in there and didn't get seen until the liner got moved. Probly spilled in there long before my time here.

Well, I got my cupboard done!!!

I keep on opening it to look at it and see if I'm pleased with my job, Marilyn!

And are you, Pat?  Pleased, that is.  ;)  It does feel good to get a dreaded chore done, doesn't it?

I am just home from the fair.  I wasn't judging today, I am the Supt. of the Art department, so was assisting the judge.  If I were to judge here in my hometown, then I couldn't enter my work.  I entered five paintings and got 4 blues (first place) the Judge's Choice, a grand champion, and Overall Grand Champion!  Not too shabby, huh?  I entered Abby's Dance scrapbook I had been working on, and it also got a blue and a Grand.  Beth wanted to enter some of her little stuffed pigs, they got a blue, so she is happy!  And the painting my friend did of Beth's dog got a blue and a reserve grand!  I am a happy camper tonight!  :) :)

There is a talent show at the fair tonight, I might go back out for that, since it is inside where it's air conditioned.  It was so cool in the room where we were toay that it made my nose run!  Felt good to go outdoors---for about 45 seconds!

I love that clip about little Logan.  What a mighty man of God he alrady is!  God bless him.

Now I will go find that update and post it, then I'm going to rest a while!

Date: Wednesday, July 20, 2011, 5:06 AM

Hey guys!

I don't know when the last time I was able to update, so I'm sorry if I've kept any of you in suspense. It's been a couple of crazy and emotional days. I think that the last time I updated "y'all" was when my grandmother popped out her hip for the second time...well, we rested that weekend, and my grandma did it again in the first village. Thank God that we thought about getting her some constricting pants because those things kept the hip in place for the most part, yet it still popped out and I had to make a big decision. I met with Tim after getting Grandma all set, and decided that I would go back to the states then and get grandma home...Tim decided to come with and we left that village for Blantyre. When we got to trying to figure things out, it ended up being about $8000 a person for a flight back to the states....we didn't have the money, so we relied on the insurance to get Grandma home...unfortunately, I couldn't get on that flight either and she has had to go alone. She was okay with that, especially since she was going to be able to stamp her passport in South Africa. They flew her there to set her hip and let her rest. The hospital she is at currently is the best in all of Asia and Africa, so I'm confident that she is doing well. We actually got a phone call today of the paramedics telling us she's in high spirits! :) Oh, by the way, she has her own private plane with a doctor, a nurse, and 3 paramedics who are with her at all times. One is from Australia, another from Germany, another from Zimbabwe....and so on...they make her laugh all the time!

After that ordeal, Tim and I went back into the villages where we kind of felt out of place, but ended up really liking! I got to preach this last Sunday at a sunday service and it ended up being one of the best sermons I have ever preached. I went up to the front thinking that I was going to preach on something that I had prepared 2 weeks ago, but I felt it necessary to preach on Matthew 14 and Titus...I used the word "money" a lot...I noticed it while I was up there preaching, but thought nothing of it. I guess it was really on my mind...I mean $8000... Regardless, I preached on grace, greed, and the need to walk on water toward Jesus and how as Christians, we need to stop asking for Jesus to take out hand every 5 minutes as if we were still 2 years old. Talked about faith, and the need to be in Unity with each other. It was a long sermon that I came up with on the spot. Quite honestly, I was super scared, but the Holy Spirit really did a work. Snoya, my interpreter, told me after I was finished that it was one of the best sermons that he had heard...and then after the service, he told me that some of the people in the church were really touched and moved by it. Apparently, the past of the church used to be the district supervisor of the Foursquare District and he did not want to show up to the church because he has misappropriated funds from the church. He was kicked off the board and it had created division within the church members and the other surrounding churches. I had no idea about this and here I was preaching on money and the need to have grace on our pastors and congregations. After the service, we also found out that the church pledged $20,000 MK in order to repair things within the church.
I was just overwhelmed. Really. God did a great thing that day, and in ways that I never knew he could do by using me. Here I was thinking that Malawi just needs "to get saved" and our little team really preached to a congregation with really "american church" issues. I love that and I love the way God has worked through us here!

I wanted to leave you with that story because it really gives glory to God and I also want to thank you all for supporting us. We've shown the Jesus Film, the Passion of the Christ, done medical clinics, had health education seminars, had marriage seminars, pastoral seminars, built an attic for the church in Blantyre, and so much more. You're support and prayers have really gone a long way! Oh and before I forget, Tim and I talked to the Foursquare Malawi President and General Supervisor last night, and he told us to come be missionaries. He's going to tell the council about it next month, and he will be praying along our side in order to see what God's next step is. Tim and I are ecstatic! God is good!

Again, I love you guys, thanks for all the prayer and help and I'll see you guys back in the states after my horrible down time in Rome this weekend...Ha ha! I'll try not to be so "down" there.
--
Elias R. Garman

Janet thank you for the great uplifting  letter from Eli.

Bless his heart, Janet. How very thankful you must be for him and his faith and ministry.

It will be good to hear from Shirley when she arrives in the States.

Thank you so much for keeping us in touch.

There's lots of dust flying in Mabel's apartment, so each time I work in there, I need Benadryl and a great shower. Such blessings we receive - a warm shower when we need it. And my cousin took 2 of us to Subway for a sandwich treat. How NICE of her! :)

Must go - I'll be out and about to take my son for a medical test tomorrow morning.

Y'all have a wonderful rest of the day with our Lord,
Ruth Ann

I just got this!!

Subject: Riots in Malawi

Just wanted to ask you guys to pray for our safe exit from Malawi. Yesterday on 20 July the people of Malawi began to protest the government and the president who has become another typical African dictator. There's a forex problem in the country where the president and his administration demand $150MK for every US $1, but in actuality the value is set at $190MK to the US $1. Because of this there's a fuel crisis occurring in Malawi because company's are asking for payment in US, but the conversions don't match up. Alongside that, the president and the ruling party have made it illegal to publish anything negative about his administration along with taking away the right to protest. Because of that, the British government has cut off all relations with Malawi, creating an economic crisis due to Britain's major aid and resources. Its really just a bad time for Malawi and their political arena. Taxes have been increased up to 20% and people can't get what they need along with increasing prices on everything.
Like I said, rioting has begun and we are right in the middle of it all. A couple of people have been killed and severely injured within the country. The police are all over the place and the government supporters have been advised to go around with machete knives and "control their countrymen." We've heard gunfire and seen blockaids everywhere and have seen cars on fire.
At the moment Tim and I with 3 others are heading north to go to a wildlife park and then head into Lilongwe to fly out of the country. So far there are riots still going on in Blantyre and the other major cities. As we were passing through the city of Zomba, we drove right through a crowd accidently who started to chuck rocks at our moving van. Thank God we got out of there.
We are trying to zip to the rural areas to get out of the commotion. We will be safe in the national park and I'm asking that you keep us in prayer as we enter into Lilongwe tonight and leave tomorrow. The other team is stuck at the hotel for today and will be doing the same as us tomorrow.
I know God's got his had upon us and that we'll be completely safe. I don't really think were in any danger as Americans...I think for the most part the people know we support their rights and the government isn't going to try anything that would cut ties with the US.
Again keep us in prayers. We love you. Thanks again for all the support and I hope I've given you a report that doesn't scare you or worry you. We're encouraged and know God has us in his care. We all have a peace about it.
Again, love you guys.
Elias Garman
Request from Tim and Wendy: forward this message onto those which can pray for us.

Wow!  There is never a shortage of things for which to pray, is there?  Especially in these last days.....so many, many needs.

Father, I pray for my dear sister Shirley.  Thank you for her heart that is always tender toward You, for her life that has been lived in love and service to you.  Thank you for your constant protection over her, for your provision on this journey, for her safe flight to South Africa, and for the wonderful care she is receiving there.  I ask that you continue to protect and hold her until she is safely home in Kansas.  What a lot of rejoicing that will bring, and so many lives will be touched by her stories of this chapter in her life.  I praise you, Lord, for all you are doing for and through Shirley.

I pray for Eli, Tim, Wendy and the rest of the team who are still in Malawi.  Shelter them under your mighty hand, Lord, and bring them safely out of that country, to Rome, and on home to the USA.  Bless all their efforts there in Malawi, and multiply them mightily; may untold numbers of the African people come to a saving knowledge of Jesus through their efforts.  Bless and keep the team, Lord, and bring them safely home.
In Jesus' Name, Amen

Hi everyone. Another hot day and a trip to Atlanta in store in about an hour.  Yesterday I was able to arrange a meeting over lunch with the Humana insurance representative to see if that might be an alternative for Stacey.  We will meet her at the Shepard Spinal Center and eat in the cafeteria where we will be able to talk.  That will be it for the day. 

I was in a state of shock this morning when I filled my car up with gas and the bill was over $50.  Don't think I ever had it be so high at a fillup. 

Janet, Eli and his group sure didn't need this uprising on top of all that they have been through.  I will be praying the Eli and the team that they experience no problem with the rioters.  It seems the whole world is beginning to erupt in war and discord.  Glad that Shirley is in good hands.  Congratulations on all of the Blue Ribbons and Grand prizes.  I must say I am not surprised having seen a few examples of your wonderful artistry. 

Ruth Ann, it almost sounds like you need to wear a mask to protect yourselves from the dust. 

Pat and Marilyn, it is nice to get things all straightened up and then be able to enjoy seeing the results of our work. 

Marilyn, I saw the invitation to Grafx but must admit I didn't click on the link.  What exactly does this involve?  Is it just showing the work you have done?  I thought maybe it was a social network and I don't need to add anything else to do on the web.  :)

Jeanne, our challenge these hot days is to stay as cool as possible.  We have to be out in it a bit but never for long.  Does the HHH stand for hot, hot, hot?

Etta Sue, clothes hung out to dry always had such a nice clean smell, particularly the sheets.  Have you seen a quillo before?

Janet, what a shock to see that latest from Eli.  Everything had seemed to be going so well! I'm praying that our Heavenly Father place a hedge of protection around Eli, Tim and Wendy, and also other missionaries working in that part of the world, and bring them all safely to their homes.


Larry, HHH stands for Hazy, Hot, and Humid.  It's often used in the TV weather reports around here, or referred to as "a triple H day".  But Hot, Hot, Hot would fit too!   :D

What an uplifting email from Eli and then the second email is so scary.  I am thinking they will all be glad to be back in America!

Pat, most chicken salads in restaurants have cut up grapes and chopped walnuts in them but I didn't have either.  So I put onions, sweet pickles, eggs, mayo and mustard in mine.  I used chicken from a can but cut up chicken breasts would be terrific also.  I guess you could put whatever your taste buds want or what you have in your pantry!

Today is the 20th anniversary of my husbands passing.  Sometimes it seems like forever...other times like yesterday.  I sure miss him and his companionship. 

I am waiting on the body shop to call me and tell me that Hawaii is ready to go! 

I thought yesterday was hot here but the actual temp today is to reach 99° and the heat index is to be between 108 and 113!!!  That is certainly stay inside heat!  I wouldn't like having to work in that heat!  My son works outside.  Hope he knows to hydrate!!

Do you need a grin today?  While we were taking entries at the fair, in the art department, a little boy of ten or so wandered up and was looking at the paintings we had hung up.  He said, "I really like that one of a Grandma and Grandpa!"  (Pointing to a portrait of Darrel and me.)  My helper said, "That lady painted that."  (Pointing at me)  I turned, and the boy asked me if I had painted it, and when I said yes, he said, "You're a really good painter--for your age!"  Hmmmmm..................   :lol:

 :lol:  ;D

Gotta love it, Janet .... as Art Linkletter said "Kids say the darndest things."

Thank you, Lord for Your loving care over our friends in Malawi. May the missionaries, and the Christians, experience safety in the midst of this chaos. Only You can give strength, wisdom, discernment, and protection for all involved. I pray this in the blessed name of Your dear Son,

Amen

May y'all have the wisdom to help guide Stacey in her insurance choices. I hope you're doing all right - this heat is dreadful, isn't it.

Janet, what a cute story. :)

Well, it's been a really busy day for me - I took my son for a test, then as I was pulling into my apartment parking lot, I got a call from the man I work for sometimes - "Help! I've just had a call from my client and they're asking for the new proposal to be sent to them today."

So, up the elevator to the 13th floor, down the hall, into my little computer area, and I started working on it.

And, I had arranged for two really sweet friends of mine to check Mabel's closet. I knew at least one of them could wear many of the items, and so they were headed this way, when my cousin called - really nervous, and wanting to know when the ladies were coming. Fortunately, I have call waiting on my cell phone, for while Nancy and I were speaking, the ladies called to say they were in the building. So, I saved my file, sent the rough draft to my "boss", went to the proper floor to them to meet Nancy.

While waiting for a call from my "boss," I plopped down into a chair and helped them with their clothing selections, which also really eased Nancy's tensions, and when my phone rang with my "boss" needing some revisions, they were chatting away as I returned to my apartment.

End of the story...my "boss" is satisfied, the client has already received his e-mailed file (so they're satisfied, too), and Nancy has returned home very thankful my friends lifted a heavy burden of stress over those clothes.

A win-win-win situation!  Thank You, Father.

Ruth Ann

Larry that link is only to the Facebook  page where I am uploading the  images that I have designed. You can look at the pictures is all or comment on the wall there or on individual pictures. I don't have many up yet. But please go there and click the link button..

All the protests, rioting, etc. in Malawi are individually and collectively under the sovereign control of our Lord - and may therefore be disguised blessings to advance His Kingdom.  What a LORD we have!

I just got this---I am so glad Shirley is not there with them any more, but is in a safe place!  Not a good place to be, with a dislocated hip, for sure!  Eli is glad his grandma isn't there now, too......



Airport was closed today. Things are getting worse...we may have to politically evacuate. We're in the hotel. Need prayer for guidance, wisdom, and safety. Ill keep updating...
Elias Garman

Al, your reminder of God's plans and will falls right in with yesterday's email message from the Adrian Rogers files: 

Have you ever wondered why Jesus "constrained His disciples to get into a ship, and to go before Him unto the other side" (Matthew 14:22), knowing that a storm was going to brew shortly after they set sail? Why would He send them right into the teeth of a stormy gale?

Because He wanted them to know that He was sufficient for them. He wanted them to worship Him. Your storm is nothing but a superhighway to bring Jesus to you. It is the vehicle that moves you from a head knowledge to an experiential understanding that God is Who He says He is.

It was Andre Crouch who said, "For if I never had a problem, I would never know that God could solve them. And I would never know what faith in His Word could do."

HHH!!  Yesterday we broke a record that was last hit in the '80's!  100 degrees!  The heat index was 113 degrees!  Today is to be cooler.   ::)
Mid 90's and heat index of 110!  No rain yet but they are saying possible thunderstorms.  It's been 10 days since I have mowed and all that needs shortened are the weeds along the edges of my drive!!

Today is rehab.  And since it is Ivalou's 78th birthday, I am taking her to a restaurant south of Noblesville called the Nickel Plate Bar and Grill (http://www.nickelplatebarandgrill.com/).  It is where the old train depot used to be.  Then I think Ivalou wants to go to the bank. 

Hawaii wasn't done yesterday.  It probably will be by the time I get back home today. 

Then this evening Kaye Don, Barb, Ivalou and I are going to Logan's Steak House for Ivalou's birthday. 

Hope it is cool everywhere we go!

AMEN!

While in Wichita with Beth, going through that whole ordeal, one of the ladies at the Ronald McDonald House said to me, "You know, if you don't have the test, you won't have the testimony!"  So true!

My sister's husband just called!  He said the last news he had is that Eli and the team were getting on a plane; and that Shirley was to leave Johannesburg at 8:15 PM.  Since they are 8 hours ahead of us, it is confusing; he didn't know exactly when that would be;  but they have to clear customs in Atlanta, then come on to Kansas City.  He said a travel agent or somebody is to let him know exactly when Shirley will get to KC so he can pick her up.  So it will all be history soon.  I cannot wait to hug my dear Sister!!  Thanks for continuing prayers for her and for the team.  Love you guys!

I am in the house for the day after going to coffee at the Senior Center this morning.  We are going to be hot and humid but not as bad as a lot of the rest of the country. 

We had a nice visit with our daughter yesterday and got her signed up for a health insurance policy with Humana.  The agent we met with was very knowledgeable and told us of some other things are daughter needed to do to help reduce the Medicare part B premium and also with the drug co-pays.  She will have coverage the 1st of August.  It has been a long, long haul to get to this point but things are beginning to come together.  I am sure some of you have gone through similar experiences dealing with bureaucratic matters. 

Nothing else on tap for today so will enjoy another nice restful day.

Jeanne, I had one third of the HHH right.  Didn't think about the hazy and humid elements. 

Etta Sue, hope you got your car back yesterday or will today.  Sorry to hear that your son has to work outside in this terrible heat.

Janet, loved the story of the little boy and the painting.

Ruth Ann, I was delighted to find that she was able to get health insurance with all of her health issues.  My best friend and his wife have the Humana insurance and have been most satisfied.  Sounds like you had a very busy but successful day yesterday.  You got a lot done.

Marilyn, the next time I go to Facebook I will try to find your page and look at your images.

Janet, know Eli and the team are very nervous with the uncertainty of the situation. 

Etta Sue, perfect day with eating out twice and not having to cook.  Working in the kitchen is becoming more and more of a problem for my wife.  We eat out a lot and I see that becoming more likely in the future. 

Janet, glad to see your last posting and hope the next message says they are back on American soil.

 

I got another call from Delbert (Shirley's husband.) He said Shirley has left Johannesburg, with orders to be EXTREMELY CAREFUL about that hip until she sees a doctor here in the States.  She is to be in Kansas City tomorrow afternoon (Saturday) and they will have a limo waiting to drive her to her own home!!  And the nurse will be with her til then!  I'm sure she is more than ready to be HOME and her husband really is ready for her to be there!!  God is good, all the time!  :)  8)

Larry--wonderful news about Stacey getting insurance!!  We have Humana and have been pleased with it so far; but of course we haven't had any big claims, either.  Insurance can be such a hassle!

We are back from the mountains & what fierce storms occurred during out ten days.  Part of what we worked on on the lawn was washed away - the heavy rains created flooding downstream so we did not have it in our area - all lakes and rivers are at high levels and that is good news always. 

Larry:   Great that Stacey has insurance. 

It was 96* here upon arriving home and the house was 84* so that is almost surprising since we have so many windows to the south.  Candles I forgot to put away were still upright - tomato plants are looking rough but still green tomatoes hanging.  It seems like a Saturday to me but here it is Friday. 

Stay cool everyone.  We actually drove by some snow that is leftover.

Pat:  Thanks for Colin's beautiful photos.  It looks so cool and refreshing. 

Hi, friends, yes, our future is in God's hands.

I have many prayers on my heart this evening, so will close. Y'all have a good evening with our Lord.

Ruth Ann

Carol, it is sure good to have you back, I have missed you!

Today I go pick up our Prairie Land Food, then there is the Fair Parade, and Beth called and wants me to come watch it with her.....then this afternoon I have to be on hand to release exhibits at the fair.  Nothing much to do.  ;)

I do hope the Republicans hang tough and do NOT cave in to Obama the SPENDER!  We cannot go on borrowing and spending forever!

Hi everyone.  Just back from coffee at McDonald's.  Going to be another very hot day here in Georgia, but perhaps not as bad as a lot of the rest of the country.  I have a quiet day planned until this evening when have an event to attend that will have a shared meal before hand.  This is an annual event that I have attended the last five years.  Plan to stay inside the rest of the day.

Janet, I know you and other family members will give a big sigh of relief when you know Shirley is back at her home.  Then when Eli returns you can give the other big sigh.  My best friend and his wife use Humana and are very pleased with it.  The problem is going to be that our daughter will have such a small check each month there is no way she is going to be able to pay her part of hospital expenses but at least the hospital will get something for their services from Humana.   

Carol, sorry to learn of the hard storms and the destruction of your yard work.  This is discouraging. 

Happy birthday, Ruth Ann!!


I got Hawaii back around 4:30pm yesterday.  It looks like new!!  Then drove to Noblesville to meet Kaye Don, Barb and Ivalou at the steak house.  I ate too much.  So much that my stomach hurt.  But I went on to Walmart and then home.  Stomach still hurting so I went to bed before dark!!  It was still light when I shut off the light after reading a chapter in my book!  And I didn't get up until 9:15 this morning!  Wow! 

Parker is mowing Ivalou's yard right now.  Not me.  I am not mowing until it rains!  The grass hasn't grown and it is turning brown now!  It has been 11 days since I have mowed but I will still wait longer. 

I am thinking about moving furniture around in my living room.  Thinking.  A couple from church is wanting to sell their red micro-suede couch, red micro-suede chaise, black coffee table and black end table.  I told them I was interested if they deliver!!  Always wanted a red couch since moving in here.  Red car....red couch.  Guess what my favorite color is?

So glad that Stacey got insurance.  I don't know how people can do it without insurance.  And happy that Shirley will be home today!!  And Carol, we could sure use that rain here!  The corn leaves look like pineapple leaves, curled and pointed.  And the corn isn't developing like it should.  Bad year for the farmers.

And today is to be another H³ day!  Already the sky is hazy, the humidity is bound to be up there and the temp is 97°.  So I am staying inside today!!

Thanks for the birthday wishes, Etta Sue. It's been a day of phone calls and arrangements for dinner tonight, and lunch tomorrow with the after-church-lunch-bunch. :) Isn't it strange - even though my brother warned me in his call today that I'll contribute to global warming if I blow out THAT many candles - I don't feel any older than I did yesterday. <chuckle>

Now - ho, hum - it's time to face reality and go downstairs to wash a LARGE load of laundry.  ::)

Love to all of y'all,
Ruth Ann

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, RUTH ANN!!  AND MANY MORE!!

I went and took Beth across the street from the care home, up onto someone's driveway in the shade of some trees (I did ask permission from the renters there) and we watched the parade in comfort, up close and personal!  Best location I ever had from which to watch it!  :)

Now it is almost time to go and release exhibits at the fair!  We are approaching 35 days of 100+ temps here! :o

HAppy Birthday Ruth Ann.  Enjoy your day.  I was saying o heather that even though I am in my 60's I still feel 30 at heart!

Well, if I see that the Global Warnings have gone up, I can tell everyone it is because of Ruth Ann! :hbirthday:

Janet:  How lovely that you and Beth could sit outside and watch the festivities - in the cool of a tree.  Precious memories.

Our daughter & g-daughter dropped by today - what fun and does that ever perk us up.  We live an hour away so it isn't as often as we would like. 

Hi Larry!  I hope your area gets some relief from these high temps.  It looks like our next week is a tad cooler.  We will take it, gladly. 

Looking forward to our home church in the morning. 

After cleaning house yesterday, I went to bed early.  I was up 24 hours though!! ha! 

I think it rained again last night.  The grass looks a little greener.  There is a puddle in front of my garage door.  And there seems to be more leaves on the grass in the front yard.  Every little bit helps but I am thinking this was a little bit. 

I am ready for church and after our after-church-lunch-bunch eats, I will be back and then a little nap!

Hi everyone on a sunny and hot Sunday morning.  We will attend church this morning and then eat out somewhere.  We have a guest minister this morning, a man who was born a Muslim and converted to Christ and has been in the ministry a long time.  He has been at some evening events at the church and I understand he is a good minister.

I had a quiet day yesterday and spent a lot of time reading.  I hope to finish the book I am reading later today as it is a real page turner.  I have another on the ebook ready from the library and have about two weeks left to get it read. 

Etta Sue, glad you got your car back looking like new again.  They can do some great work in restoring the body of cars.  Hope the furniture works out for you.  We are glad that Stacey got insurance as well as didn't expect she would be insurable.  The agent said the only thing that would disqualify a person under this Medicare supplement insurance is if the person is on dialysis. 

Ruth Ann, that wasn't a nice thing for your brother to day.  You are not old.  Do you notice the older we become the less those ages seem old.  :)  Like I see Judy said, guess our minds don't age the same way our bodies do usually.

Janet, glad Beth was able to enjoy the parade from a good vantage point.  I am sure she must enjoy a time away from her room in the care home.  Wow, 35 days of 100+ temps.  That reminds me of the days we lived around Oklahoma City about 46 years ago before we had air conditioning.

Carol, it is hot here but not as hot as many other areas.  I saw the map today that says it is to get to 94 degrees with high humidity which makes it seem hotter.  We have to expect that in July here in the South.  I do know our electric bill has increased.  It was over $300 last month but we pay it on a flat rate over the year.  However, that gets adjusted periodically if it gets out of line either not paying enough or too much.

It's raining!!  Not just raining but storming.  Had to wait to get out of Chili's, it was coming down so much.  I can see the grass is greener!! 

With that being said, let's move on to a new room (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=11884.new#new)...where it is nice and clean!