P's of P squad, 3rd generation

In January 2015 my daughter, Alyssa Nobles, and fifty three young adults left America for the World Race.  This group is labeled P squad by Adventures in Missions, which is the organization sending them on this Kingdom Journey. Ahead of them are 11 countries over the course of 11 months. They will traverse 3 continents and spend the entire year in summer. 

In less than 11 days, forty six young adults will re-enter America. They have lived Hebrews 12: 1, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.  And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."

In the spirit of "11 in 11" here are 11 P's for P squad, including some scripture I prayed for them during the year.

Plans 
These young people gave up their plans for a year.  They were willing to put plans on hold and seek after the plans that God had for them. They had no idea all the challenges they would encounter as God grew them and changed them for His glory.

Prayer
Much prayer has accompanied this squad. They have prayed for healing, they have prayed against spiritual warfare, they have prayed for protection. Parents, friends, family and even strangers have interceded for P squad during their "normal days" and the struggles they have faced this year. 
"One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up." Luke 18:1

Poop
It happens!  It was all squad month during February, and everyone suffered some type of intestinal problem.  I'm sure having abdominal issues is even less fun when you can't flush the toilet paper...which is typical in 3rd world countries.

Perseverance
Living in community 24/7 in a foreign culture, with unusual foods, serving the local church as missionaries, giving up comforts like a bed, and regular bathing facilities for 11 months requires perseverance.  Bus rides through street riots. Bridges that are out and require you to walk for miles with your pack through Bolivia.  A life changing car accident in India.  An armed robbery that involves machetes. These type of difficulties would cause most people to give up and go home. Not P squad...they persevered!

Power
They experienced the power of God in the Nepal earthquake.
"I sought the Lord, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears." Psalm 34:4

Patience
Everyday required patience and dependence on God. 
"For this reason also, since the day we hear this, we haven't stopped praying for you. We are asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, so that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, bearing fruit in every good work and growing n the knowledge of God.  May you be strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for all endurance and patience, with joy giving thanks to the Father, who has enable you to share in the saints' inheritance in the light." Colossians 1:9-12

Pleasure
They knew how to work hard, but also to play hard. They enjoyed many pleasures as they traveled and enjoyed God's creation.  Waterfalls, safaris, boat rides, beaches, sunsets, sunrises, lakes, puddles, rice fields, volcanoes, swings, hospitality of others, good food, sweet children, great worship, and baptisms.

People
P squad knows how to love people.  They love like Jesus.  They love the unlovable, the hurting, the broken, the children, the widow and even the enemy.  
"Show family affection to one another with brotherly love.  Outdo one another in showing honor." Romans 12:10

Pain
They experienced so much pain...physical pain, spiritual pain, emotional pain. 
"Therefore we do not lose heart.  though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2 Corinthians 4:16-17

Purpose
These young adults all went on the race for one purpose - to serve the nations and glorify God.

Pursuit
They pursued a deeper relationship with Jesus and He in turn pursued them.  They have grown and changed during this journey called the World Race.  

P squad keep pursuing Jesus, living life for His purpose, and pushing through the pain while loving people. Take pleasure in each day and know that God has a plan for you as you return to America.  I will keep praying for you.  

"The Lord is indeed going before you- he will be with you; he will not fail you or abandon you.  Do not be afraid or discouraged!" Deuteronomy 31:8

Love from MamaNobles

Connections & Hospitality in Thailand, PVT, part 3

In September 1978 I arrived as a new student at Berry College in Rome Georgia. A new dean of students also came to campus that year, Tom Carver. Our paths have aligned in many ways through the years. Our most recent and longest relationship involves piano, I am his teacher. When Dean Carver retired in 2004, he began taking piano lessons.  As my kids started looking at colleges, I would ask Tom about them and he ALWAYS knew someone at that school.  What does this have to do with World Race, Parent Vision Trip and Thailand? When he found out I was going to Thailand he told me I needed to meet his friend, Rob, that teaches at the seminary there.  What a surprise, Tom Carver, has a friend in Chiang Mai Thailand!

As we began to plan our trip, I got Rob's email address and we began to correspond.  I had questions, and he had answers. I asked if he had a suggestion for a place to stay prior to PVT, and he did. We booked it for two nights, and so did 6 other race families! A week or so before we left, I emailed Rob that I would love to meet him and suggested that maybe he could meet us for lunch on our first day. Of course, I was really looking for someone who would help me navigate this new city and culture! Rob emailed me back and said that he and his wife have a spaghetti dinner every Thursday night in their home and that we (and other race parents) were invited! We haven't even left the states, and we have been invited to have dinner in a home in Chiang Mai. I was so excited.

Please note that one of my favorite things is to connect other people, especially if they are new to our community. Randy and I love to guide people to meet other people that can help them find a job, a house, a car, a church, or a friend.  So before I finish the Rob story, here are two other connections we had going to Asia.  There are two Berry grads serving with Campus Outreach at Chiang Mai University. They have been there since February, and I know one of them, Kim. Our dear friends, Jonathan and Sarah Pascual, met in Chiang Mai years ago. Sarah texted me that they had good friends that have a coffee shop/house church in Chiang Mai and we should meet them. We are flying to Thailand to do missions alongside Alyssa and her P squad, and I have people to meet, including families I that I don't know! 

I am excited to make these connections, but wondering how we will navigate and join up with all these people? I am apprehensive about being in a new culture, not knowing the language, not knowing how I will adjust to the time change, or the food. I had to trust that God had all this planned before the foundations of the earth. He knew Alyssa was going on the World Race, and that we would be with her in Thailand. He placed people in our path to make our transition into the unknown a lot more comfortable. God is so good.

Back to Rob! Our first day in Thailand, I called him and he was actually on his way to our guesthouse to see us.  Soon he drove up on his motorscooter (everyone has a scooter or motorbike). Rob is 77 years old and has lived in Chiang Mai since he graduated from college in 1960.  He had some years in the states working on degrees, but he has lived in Asia off and on for 54 years!  He teaches Greek in the Thai language at the seminary (that makes my head hurt).  It was great to swap Tom stories that morning at our guesthouse by the river.  He wrote down his address in both English and Thai for us to give to the Songthaew driver that evening.  There were 7 World Race parents that got to enjoy spaghetti dinner in a home on our first night in Chiang Mai.   

Hospitality abounds at the Collins home every Thursday night!

Rob and his wife, Esther, have hosted Thursday night spaghetti dinners for 20 years. It's always a different group of people.  Folks from the seminary, various mission organizations, students from the states, mission teams, etc... They open their home and show hospitality and the love of Jesus in such a wonderful way. It was definitely a highlight for me to be in their home.  In fact, the following week, I emailed him and asked if we could come again and bring Alyssa.  We went and met other fascinating people that are serving in Thailand in various ways. What a blessing!

Randy and I enjoyed our time with PVT, and being with Alyssa everyday was wonderful. We did ministry with her, learned about ministries in Chiang Mai, went to the markets, coffee shops, an art museum, saw elephants, petted tigers, prayed and worshiped with her.  It was glorious, but honestly our favorite day was the last day we shared with Alyssa.  We took a Tuk Tuk to the big mall, Maya, and had lunch at the food court.  Afterwards we walked several blocks to The Light Cafe where we were to meet Ann and Sinn (the Pascual's friends). We invited Kim Allerton, our Berry friend, to join us. Alyssa and Kim were friends in college. What a wonderful afternoon drinking coffee, making new friends and visiting with Kim. It turns out that Sinn used to work with Campus Outreach.  His wife Ann, knows Esther (Rob's wife). Kim's Campus Outreach friend, Brooke (also Berry grad), also knows Esther - from Cross Fit.  Yep, they have Cross Fit in Chiang Mai! Since it was Thursday, so off we went to Rob's for spaghetti dinner.

Sinn, Ann, Poom, the Nobles and Kim...connecting with new friend

"Make sure you don't take things for granted and go slack in working for the common goo;share what you have with others. God takes particular pleasure in acts of worship - a different kind of "sacrifice" that take place in kitchen and workplace and on the streets." Hebrews 13:16 (The Message)

Cultural dinner in Chiang Mai

Elephant kisses!

PVT - Thailand, part 2

I read all the blogs of P squad...every one of them.  I comment on many of them. This group of people on 3rd generation P squad have encouraged me over the past 7 months. They are willing to ask the hard questions, go to the hard places, love the unlovable, walk into the unknown and embrace life with their whole being.  They hear scripture in a new way, they listen to God with new ears and they pray with a renewed fervor and spirit.  

I knew going to join Alyssa and her squad at PVT would be a blessing, but I had never been off the continent of North America.  I was not excited about the long travel days and hours in the air.  I didn't know what to expect because I had never been immersed in another culture.  

After a few days in Thailand, I found that being away from the normalcy of America to be so refreshing.  I think that is what the World Racers experience as they move to different countries and cultures.  In the spirit of one of my favorite P squad blogger, Melissa Bjorklund, here are some things that stand out from my time in Thailand.

So many

smells

markets - everyone is selling something

smiles

motorcycles, scooters, songtaews, tuk tuks

temples

spirit houses with food offerings

animals roaming the streets

people outside - sitting, hanging laundry, eating, talking, working, walking

coffee shops

The people in Chiang Mai never seem to be in a hurry

The children don't throw temper tantrums or seem cranky

I loved hearing the new language and trying to communicate with people and the racers do it so well and with such ease.  I learned a lot about relationships watching P squad during my week at PVT.  

I learned

share your story

hear their story

let go of your desires and serve others

accept those that are different 

World Racers spend 11 months in 11 countries serving and loving others.  They are learning about relationships and in turn they have taught me so much through their examples. 

Thank you P squad for living out Colossians 3:1-17

(my paraphrasing)

  

Racers set their mind on things above and put aside worldly things and desires. 

The racers have compassion, they are kind, they are humble, they are gentle, they are patient, they forgive and accept others. They truly have an attitude of gratitude and do all for His glory.

Fresh Vegetables at the market

Fresh meat at the market

booth at one of the many night markets

A few P squad racers reunited on streets of Chiang Mai

Visiting Thailand for PVT and The World Race

When Alyssa left for the World Race in January we learned about the Parent Vision Trip (PVT). Each racer is given the opportunity to invite his or her parents to join them for a week and do ministry alongside them. Knowing Alyssa's route, that would mean PVT would be somewhere in Asia. I knew Cambodia or Thailand were possibilities because PVT is typically in month 8 of the race.  My family all said that I wouldn't go.  I didn't have a passport, and I haven't ever been on a mission trip outside of local missions. Randy would go.  He has a passport and has been on many mission trips to Mexico and the US.

At launch in Atlanta we were given the book, Kingdom Journeys, by Seth Barnes.  I began reading and reflecting on the words of this book.  I began to ask God what He wanted me to do.  Would I be willing to get outside my comfort zone? What would that look like?  In late February I made an appointment to apply for a passport.  Then we get the invitation from Alyssa to come to PVT, it would be in Chiang Mai Thailand in July.  

As we prepared to leave the country for 12 days, people would ask if we were excited. I honestly didn't know what to say. This was going to be a whole new experience and I didn't know what to expect. Yes, we would see Alyssa, but the point of PVT isn't just to visit your daughter, it's to experience God and serve Him outside your comfort zone.  

In my life, things are routine and scheduled. I have everything I need, can go anywhere I want and communicate easily. In a foreign land all that changes. Being outside of my normal life, allowed me to focus more on God. 

Here are five things that I took away from my time in Thailand:

• Listen for His voice and use less of mine.
• Learn where He is working and join Him, even if it is hard, uncomfortable or messy.
• Love well.  This looks like listening more to others and loving them without judgment.
• Be the Light. The motto at Lighthouse in Action is "be Jesus with skin on"  Bring the light to dark places by loving like Jesus.
• Time is needed, prayer is needed, workers are needed. Nothing happens quickly, you build relationships by loving like Jesus and then you pray for those that come after you to water and cultivate the seeds of love you planted.

I loved spending time with Alyssa and her squad mates.  They have been loving like Jesus all over the world and they encouraged the parents at PVT to do the same.

Slum ministry means painting fingernails.

Parents of racers...great memories were shared

A ministry of Lighthouse in Action and a great cafe!

Alyssa & her Dad after lunch at Zion 

Alyssa and teammate Zach at Art in Paradise

Racers waving goodbye as parents go on excursion

Remembering My Dad....A Generation Ends

Everyone has a Dad.  Not everyone has a Dad from the Greatest Generation, serving in World War II and surviving German prison camp for 7 months. Not everyone has a Dad who worked hard to provide for his family. Not everyone has a Dad who loved God and served Him faithfully through the last years of his life. I can claim all of these for my Dad.

Charles Daniel Dugger was born in February 1923 in north Florida, the youngest son of Charlie and Addie. Dan was one of 9 children who moved from Macclenny to Hawthorne in 1929 and remained on that property until his death in April 2015. With his passing, is the end of that generation. My Dad loved to work, it's all he knew. He farmed, chickens, cows and a pig or two.  He had pecans, pears, and planted the most wonderful garden full of vegetables every summer and fall.  I was fortunate to learn how to work hard through his example. I'm sure I didn't understand the importance of what I was learning when I was feeding chickens, picking up pecans, picking peas, shucking corn and many other chores that were in my required of me.

My Dad taught Sunday School from 1960 until 2012.  He taught junior boys, preschoolers and worked in VBS. He was a deacon in the First Baptist Church. He visited the sick, and took vegetables to them from his garden. He sang in the church choir for as long as I can remember.  He gave me a love for music as he made "a joyful noise unto the Lord" - walking to milk the cows.  He was a man of few words, but when he spoke "he didn't stutter"...which meant get busy!  

He was married to my Mom for 62 years, and loved her to the very end. He missed her so much, that 5 months after she passed away he went to join her.  He lived a long, full life that makes me realize how fortunate I was to have such a Godly example. My life was shaped by him in so many ways...thanks Dad for everything!

Shelling pecans at age 91

Taking a walk in the field at age 92, just a few weeks before he went to heaven!
  He loved being outside.

Home 

The last family photo in March 2015.
My Dad went to be with the Lord on Easter 2015, Victory Day!

Ends of the Earth - World Race

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come on you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts. 1:8

When Alyssa said she was going on the World Race, this mom was not happy.  I actually huffed out of the room!  After processing it and praying through it, I embraced her decision to take this adventurous journey.  In my heart I knew that God had prepared Alyssa for such a trip.  

• She grew up in church learning about missions through Girls in Action (GA's), went to GA summer camp and came home talking about all she had learned from missionaries.
• We had college students in our home that went on short and long term missions. She heard their stories and her heart was molded to love the nations.
• At the end of 9th grade she began regular trips to serve at an orphanage and school in the border town of Piedras Negras Mexico.

As a parent you pray that your child will follow the Lord.  It's easy to say we trust Him with our children wherever He leads them, then they go on the World Race!

One last trip to Chick fil A before leaving on the World Race

What have I learned since Alyssa left on the race?

No News Is Good News

The first month (Ecuador) we heard from her frequently.  We got text, she blogged, she posted on Instagram and Facebook.  Then she decided to go on a screen fast during month 2 (Peru), to focus on the Lord and detox from social media.  Then she lost her phone...confirmation from God concerning the screen fast.  (Cue the voice that says to the mother - "well you said you trusted God, how about when you don't get regular communication?")  We haven't heard much from her since early in February, but an email or blog is such a treasure.  It's similar to the excitement of getting snail mail.

Praying Scripture

Pray without ceasing.  Sometimes it's hard to know specifics to pray when communication is limited.   I have learned to pray scripture over Alyssa and her team and squad.  A few that  I pray specifically and frequently are:

"In peace Alyssa will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make Alyssa dwell in safety." Psalm 4:8

"You will keep Alyssa's mind dependent on You in perfect peace, for Alyssa is trusting in You." Isaiah 26:3

"the Lord appeared to Alyssa from far away.  I have loved Alyssa with an everlasting love; therefore, I have continued to extend faithful love to Alyssa."  Jeremiah 31:3

"Do not fear, for I am with Alyssa; do not be afraid, for I am Alyssa's God.  I will strengthen Alyssa; I will help Alyssal I will hold on to Alyssa with My righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Isaiah 43:19
Galatians 6:9
Deuteronomy 31:8

Geography Lessons
Alyssa's Dad taught geography and social studies. Her brother won the geography bee in the 6th grade and eventually majored in geography.  I am geographically challenged, but I am currently learning about South America.  I can tell you the major cities in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia, though my pronunciation leaves much to be desired.  I have learned about Che Guevara the Argentine revolutionist who hid out in Lagunillas Bolivia. Lagunillas is where Alyssa will be during month 3 of the World Race.  She leaves South America  for Asia at the end of March, and I will begin to explore those countries, cities and villages via maps and the internet.

The following pictures were taken by team or squad mates and posted on Facebook or Instagram.  Check out these videos by Eva to learn more about the ministries of P squad.

Savage Ministries in Trujillo Peru

Drum line talents take to the streets to gather Peruvian children for VBS.

Alyssa and team mate Kate

Some days

Some days are tough. Today was one of those days.  But God knew before today that I would need Him, that He would provide the time and the words to say.  Today was a day I needed to be calm in the midst of the storm.  I could not have done that if God had not provided His peace.

Last Friday Carrie had outpatient surgery.  She had a Fibro adenoma removed from her breast.  She had discovered this cyst during her first semester of college.  After several doctor visits, it was determined to have it removed.  Carrie did great on Friday. The lab report came back, and the cyst was benign - just as expected.  She went back to the dorm on Sunday evening and in class on Monday.  She was tired and sore, but okay.

She called me crying this morning.  She was not feeling well and possibly running a fever.  She had an appointment to apply for her passport and didn't feel well enough to drive.  God had this...it was Tuesday, and I have a big block of free time (read: time to work on stuff that never gets done because I'm teaching).  I was able to immediately leave my office and pick her up.

All this is going on physically, and looming is the big emotional discovery of the day.  Carrie applied to be an RA next year.  She has been talking about it since fall semester.  She was pumped to serve in this capacity.  Today was the day they would get the letter about RA selection.  Her roommate also applied.  The letter came - she was not selected.  She was devastated, distraught and disappointed. Her roommate was chosen.  Remember, they are Winshape students.  There are a limited number of slots for RA on mountain.

I had been praying about this since she applied.  I knew there was potential for being disappointed.  I sent her a text this morning "God made you special and He loves you very much - and so do I."  I prayed for her to have grace to handle whatever happened, to have peace.  

Again, God had this.  I was in a lesson with a voice student that I accompany and was able to leave and answer her call.  She came to my office - a perk of going to school where your mom works - and I was able to hug her, let her cry and talk her through this difficult time.  

We talked about how much this hurt.  We talked about how to be really honest about what she was feeling.  We talked about how she couldn't be angry at anyone, the decision was made.  We talked about what she could learn through this experience. I prayed with her, asking God to pour out His love and grace on her during this time.  I eventually had to get back to teaching, but she stayed in my office. 

She played the piano and picked up the hymnal.  Both ministered to her.

"Lord, You light my lamp; my God illuminates my darkness.
With You I can attack a barrier, and with my God I can leap over a wall.
God - His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is pure. He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him."
Psalm 18:28-30

Pray for her, she is hurting. Pray that God will open doors and she will feel loved by Him.

School Days for Mr. Nobles

School days, school days
Dear old golden rule days
Readin' and 'ritin' and 'rithmetic
Taught to the tune of the hickory stick

This is the song that my mom used to sing when she came to wake me up on the first day of school.  Obviously it is a bit out dated, but I still think of it when the new year rolls around.  When the first day of school arrived at the Nobles house Kate started high school,  Randy didn't go because he's retired (sorta), and Alyssa was teaching ESL in Hazlehurst MS.  But eight days after school started is when everything changed for Aaron! 

Aaron graduated from Kennesaw State University in December 2012 and continued to work at Olive Garden while job searching.  During the spring he enjoyed being the community soccer coach at Rome High School.  This gave him experience working with students and an outlet for his love of the game.  Aaron's desire is to teach high school history and coach.  He applied to numerous school systems in Georgia and North Carolina, but without a clear renewable teaching certificate he wasn't having success acquiring employment.

Let me back up a few weeks and confess that I very anxious about Alyssa and Aaron and their future.  After several intense days of restlessness, I was granted an overwhelming peace as I prayed about the situation.  God let me know that He was in control and that all would be fine.  After that day, I trusted in God's promise to provide.

A week before school was to begin, Aaron got a call to interview for a para-professional job.   A para-pro doesn't require a teaching certificate, but does give classroom experience, a salaried (not hourly) wage, and benefits.  The best part of this particular job - it was at the neighborhood elementary school that all my kids attended, West End!  

Aaron interviewed on  a Tuesday.  School began that Friday.  No call.  A week goes by, no word. But, the job is still posted as open.  Two weeks after the interview, he gets a call from the principal asking if he was still interested in the job.  He was ecstatic!  He and I went shopping for "teacher" clothes that day, and he reported to the school the next day.  He is the computer lab guy.  Art, music, P.E. and computer are the activities the children rotate through every two weeks.  He has 30 computers and mans the classroom on his own.  The call came on Tuesday, his first day was Wednesday and the children came on Thursday.  He sees every grade level, Pre-K through 6th grade.

One of Aaron's favorite graduation gifts
coaching shirt
Rome High Soccer - Coach Nobles

Today he completed his first full week in the classroom.  I am happy to report that he is very tired.   He seems to like what he is doing, and is learning to think on his feet.  On his first day with 30 first graders in the lab, a circuit breaker blew!  It actually happened several times that afternoon.  He found himself entertaining with a rousing game of hangman!  He has learned that the younger students like to play Simon Says when lining up to leave the classroom.  It has been a whirlwind of initiation!

He teaches at the school that he attended for seven years, and alongside former teachers that are now colleagues.  He still says he wants to teach high school, but he is gaining valuable experience.  

Another Mr. Nobles in education, God is good!

Currently at the Nobles

It's almost time for Carrie's graduation and her senior trip to Colorado, but there are some other items to report that are worth noting in the Nobles household!

Since Alyssa graduated from Berry on May 5 she has been busy getting things ready for VBS at Calvary.  She also has pre-institute reading and work to prepare for Teach for America that begins in June.  In short, she is not still for long!

Aaron finished his semester at KSU, and though he didn't make Dean's List, he definitely had a better spring semester than in years past!!!  He took 15 hours of classes, worked at Olive Garden 20 plus hours a week, and refereed high school soccer games.  To his credit he also was a ref for 2 state playoff games, which pays very nicely!

Carrie has officially finished high school with her last exam on Tuesday!  She made a 99 on her Biology test, so she pulled her grade up to complete the semester.  She is working at Chick-fil-A, writing thank you notes, making gifts for graduating friends and learning to use her new MacBook Pro!!  Yep, we splurged and bought her an Apple.  I know it is a good investment.  She also played in her last piano recital on Monday night.  She played a Chopin Waltz and Pachelbel's Canon in D.  She did a lovely job, and I am very proud of her for continuing piano through a busy high school career.

Kate continues to swim with Three Rivers Swim Club, which keeps her busy after school and some weekends. She recently got her CRCT scores, and I'm pleased to report that she exceeded in 4 of 5 subjects!! Another recent accomplishment was making the Rome Middle School Leadership Team.  This year a teacher had to nominate you before you could even apply.  Kate was not nominated, but wasn't going to be deterred.  She stepped up and requested an application, it was granted.  She got an interview and made the team. I'm proud of her determination.

Kate receives her gold cup at recital.

Kate received her 30 point gold cup for the National Federation of Music Clubs from our local chapter.  This means she has received a superior rating 6 years in a row.  She also participated in the National Piano Guild Auditions, preparing a program of 8 memorized pieces.  She continues to enjoy band (playing trombone!) and chorus at Rome Middle School.

Randy is trying to decide about retirement.  He plans to wait until Kate finished RMS next year, but with changes in the TRS, he may change his mind and retire sooner if it makes sense economically.  Stay tuned!  Meanwhile, only two more days of school!!!

Kathryn is trying to keep everything under control at home with graduations, trip planning, and waiting for doors to open or close in her life.  Also, the family is transitioning to a new church in the coming months...again, details to come.  We have been faithful members and servants at Calvary since our college days, but the season of our life is changing.  We sense God is leading us to a new place to worship and serve.

Waiting

Most people don't like to wait.  We hate waiting for the light to turn green. We don't like to wait in line at the grocery store or the drive-thru. We don't like to be kept waiting at the doctor's office. Waiting for special holidays (Christmas, birthdays, graduations) is hard.  I don't really know anyone who enjoys waiting.  By nature, we are impatient people.

I am waiting now ....for an answer (see blog from 3/22 about a meeting..where I had to wait to be seen).
I get discouraged as I wait.  I doubt as I wait. Today I began to wonder what God was teaching me as I wait. There are many verses that address waiting.  Here are a few that have encouraged me in the past, and especially today.

I waited patiently for the Lord; and He inclined to me, and heard my cry. Psalm 40:31
Grant me patience as I wait, and that I would cry to my Father, and not complain to others.

My soul waits in silence for God only; From Him is my salvation. Psalm 62:1
I should seek God more than I seek an answer.

Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary. Isaiah 40:31
I long to be like the eagle and soar above my doubts and discouragement.

But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. Romans 8:25
Praise God, He is sovereign.  May I persevere through this time of waiting, and know that He will meet all my needs according to His riches (wow, that's a lot - cause He owns it all!).

What or who are you waiting for? What do you do while you wait?

Light at the End of the Tunnel

Yes, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel and no, it's not a train! It's graduation for Aaron!!!!!

Aaron has taken the long and winding road to higher education.  He spent 4 years at Georgia College in Milledgeville, but no degree.  Being away for four years was good in some ways, and definitely a learning experience for the parents. When your child is away at school, you pray more than ever! You have to trust that your child will make Godly decisions, have Godly friends, and that he will pursue excellence in his educational choices.  Well, you can't have everything!  Aaron left Milledgeville, and came home to make up lost ground at the community college.

This past fall he enrolled at Kennesaw State University, majoring in geography.  He commutes two days a week, works at Olive Garden and referee's soccer.  The question is always, "when do you think you will graduate?"  His response has always been nebulous, but maybe in one or two more semesters.  Any time I asked him, he would say he had 20 - 30 more hours to take. Well, he met with his advisor today and he texted "I will graduate next semester".  He has 12 hours after this semester, and should graduate in December 2012.  Hallelujah!!!!

Stay tuned for the answer to the next question - what will he do once he graduates?  For now, we are rejoicing over the news that graduation is in sight!!!!

Meeting tomorrow - prayers appreciated

I have an important meeting at Berry on March 23 at 2 p.m.  I would appreciate your prayers.

This meeting is for me to gain support for all I do at/for Berry.  I have been an adjunct for 26 years.  An adjunct is a part-time lecturer. For twenty six years I have given tirelessly to the students at Berry.  I love what I do, and I believe I do it well. The music department is where I have given of my talents, and time, yet I'm still considered part-time.  Students always find it ironic, because they see the amount of work that I do, and all the time I spend to helping them become better musicians.

Don't get me wrong, I may not have the benefits that a full time position gives, but I do have benefits.  My family has benefitted from college students in our home. The students teach me about living out my faith through their example. The students teach me about depending on God. The students teach me to have fun and laugh!  The students encourage my kids to follow Christ.  The students love my kids, and set strong Christian examples for them. Berry students are the best, and they are who I really work for!

I've been down this road before, and been denied.  Please pray that those that I meet with on Friday at 2 p.m. will listen to my heart. That they will understand that I only do what is best for the students and the college.  All I'm asking is that this verse be true:  "Give, and it will be given to you, good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, they will pour into your lap.  For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return." Luke 6:38

Pray for Brandon

Pray for Brandon

This blog started as a way to share our National Park trips with friends and family. These trips are taken with the Williams family. They are more than travel buddies, they are our neighbors, friends, Berry alums, and educators. Their children have spent many hours with our kids.  We share holidays together, dinner, dessert, a hike or bike ride at Berry. 

Waiting for  the bus in Boston

Brandon is 16 years old, and has endured years of  medical procedures. I call him a human pin cushion.  Without going through his whole medical history, the last 18 months have been especially trying for his family as he has dealt with intestinal issues.  Next week he will go to Scottish Rite to have a colectomy with an ileoanal j pouch.  Basically he will have a his large intestine removed, and have a temporary, which the j pouch will replace once that part of the surgery heals. The surgery will take place on Wednesday February 1. Please pray for Brandon, his doctors, nurses and his parents, Stephen & Beth.  

Brandon loves to play video games, and Aaron is always happy to  join him.  This is Brandon at age 10.

Brandon with the weasel the kids found in a house  in New Hampshire during our New England trip.  There is a story here, and no one tells a story quite like Brandon!

Beth, Brandon, Emily & Stephen in Boston

Brandon & Mom on the Golden Gate bridge

Brandon has a loving, supportive family, friends and church family.  He has a terrific outlook on the situation, but he would rather be fishing, kayaking, or watching NASCAR!  I look forward to Brandon getting to resume the activities he loves!

Colorado is calling Nobles/Williams travel crew in May, and we need Brandon ready to skip some rocks!

Alyssa's Exciting News!

 Alyssa will graduate from Berry College on May 5 with a Bachelor of Science in Education.  She is currently student teaching in 3rd grade at Elm Street Elementary.  Getting a teaching job in this economy is not easy, and Alyssa knows that.  She learned about Teach for America through the career center at Berry, and decided to pursue that program.

It's a long process, but the short story is she was accepted into the program! She found out today that she will begin her two year commitment to teach in the Mississippi Delta area.  Teach for America places teachers in poverty areas of the country.  They want them to impact the community and the school where they serve.  They give them training before they begin, they provide transitional funding and there is also money for a master's degree.

It will not be an easy assignment, but I know Alyssa will be ready.  She'll need our encouragement and our prayers.  We are so proud of her, and know God will use her mightily in this new environment.

Thankful for...

The old hymn says to "count your many blessings see what God has done." We like to complain, moan and gripe when things aren't easy. I'm guilty! Someone will ask how I am, or how is the family. Instead of being thankful and bragging on all the Lord has provided, I am likely to give a laundry list of complaints. It's the Thanksgiving season, but shouldn't I be thankful and grateful EVERYDAY, every season?

In James 1: 2 -3, Paul writes "consider it a great joy brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance." Compared to many folks, I haven't endured any trials...but when they come I need to count it a joy because that means God is at work. Randy reminded me of this verse when Aaron had a fender bender a few weeks ago. Kind of puts everything in perspective!

Anyway...here's a short list, in no particular order, of things I am thankful for:

1. Freedom that we have as Americans. I haven't had to worry about someone dropping a bomb on my house or storming my home because I'm reading my bible.

2. Family. A wonderful husband who loves the Lord and leads us with wisdom from above. Children who are healthy, and mostly obedient! My parents are still living, and relatively healthy...many adults my age can't say that.

3. Provision. We have more than we could ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).

4. Opportunity. God allows me the opportunity to be a wife, a mom, a teacher and a friend to so many. I pray that I will make the most of opportunities He lays in my path & be obedient to Him. Jeremiah 29:13, "You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart."

No matter what the circumstance or situation, remember to praise God.

Stress Relief

Fall semester begins at Berry, and with it will be the challenge of keeping it all together without losing my mind. Juggling classes, practicing, rehearsals, planning for meals and keeping up with my family's schedule can take it's toll. Here are some ways I manage my sanity:

1. PLAN. "If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail." I have long range plans, but it's the weekly plans that make it work. I talk to my family and find out who will be home for dinner on what night, as I always want to have good food ready. What has to be accomplished on Monday? Who am I meeting with? What do I need to have ready for my classes & rehearsals?

2. PRAY AND READ THE WORD. Pray without ceasing is good, but set aside a time to pray and read the Word. I won't lie, I get busy and this gets pushed aside. But, I handle life better when I'm talking to my heavenly Father and hearing Him through His Word.

3. TAKE A WALK OR A DRIVE. I walk Kate to school every morning, it's part of our routine. For me it's about 1.5 miles. We talk on the way to school, then on my way home I talk to God. Exercise is so important to our mental & physical health. Whenever possible I take a hike at Berry. An hour on the trail, sitting on a rock to reflect & pray refreshes me like a mini-vacation. You might enjoy a drive in the country with the windows down and music blaring. Just a change of scenery can change your attitude & focus.

4. COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS. Are you complaining about all you have to do? About your situation? It's cliche, but thank God for all you have. Living in the USA, I have much to be thankful for. I have a roof over my head & air conditioning! I have water that is clean and comes out of the faucet. I have a job. I can walk in my neighborhood without fear. My family is currently healthy, including my parents that are in their late 80's. I have great kids, even though they can drive me crazy. I have a Godly husband the loves his family & works hard to provide for us. My car is not new, but it runs. I have food in my cabinets. I have a dishwasher. The list goes on and on. Thank God for everything!

5. SAY NO. This is hard, but I can't be responsible for and do everything. That is what God says in Romans 12 about their being many gifts: "For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. And since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let each exercise them accordingly."

6. ASK FOR HELP. I struggle with this too. I'm self-sufficient, and I don't want to bother people. It's taken a long time for me to see the advantage of asking for help. Having 4 children, especially in their teen and young adult years has made me realize that I can do it alone. I need to ask for wisdom from God, and from those who have walked the road before me.

7. BLESSED ARE THE FLEXIBLE. I'm not sure this was an original "Stovall-ism", but that is where I first heard it, from Hailey. Her mom said it was one of the Beatitude's. I think it's great advice for those stressful days.

Here's to a great fall semester!

Cat tails & God

This is Rowdy, he is almost a year old. He is a fun and crazy cat. Like most cats he comes and goes on his own terms. Sometimes he wants attention, other times just leave him alone. Occasionally he still likes to play with his tail. It just amazes me that he will suddenly start chasing his tail. He will spin round and round trying to "catch" his tail. Now, he must know that it is his tail - it follows him everywhere. Most of the time he doesn't pay attention to his tail, but on occasion he can't stop chasing it. Then just as suddenly he stops, and wanders off to eat....tail forgotten.

While watching Rowdy this morning, I begin to think that we are often like this with God. He is always there, but much of the time we ignore Him. We can go days or weeks without even noticing God, then all the sudden we have this crazy pursuit of God. Many times it's a struggle or trial that sends us pursuing God. Other times we may realize our need for Him, and there we are trying to catch Him. But, of course, He has been there all along....just waiting for us to run toward Him. Just like Rowdy and his tail.

"O God, Thou art my God, I shall seek Thee earnestly;
My soul thirsts for Thee, my flesh yearns for Thee,
In a dry and weary land where these is no water.
Thus I have beheld Thee in the sanctuary,
To see Thy power and Thy glory.
Because Thy lovingkindness is better than life." Psalm 63:1