A Look into Ellen's World

moving to cochrane

2011-11-09T22:24:00.002-06:00

yep, I'm moving again...but this time, it's really "just up the road" where our seminary and office are...and where I spent the first few years of this journey. I've lived in the basement suite of the Shelton home since moving back to Calgary in October 2008. I didn't really expect to be here "this long" as I thought this might be a short term thing until I found something in Cochrane. But my little home grew on me and so has the Shelton crew. They have been the family to me during this season of my life and I am forever grateful. I'm sure we'll continue to have visits and meals together...And of course, I will continue to see Bob and Debbie at work!

Bob and Debbie decided to downsize a few months ago but the move came quicker than any of us expected. I'll be moving my things out this Saturday into the garage and basement of a seminary owned 2 bedroom off-campus condo. The condo is being renovated so I'll stay in seminary guest housing until I head south for Christmas and fully move into the condo in the new year. I'm glad it's working out for me to rent the condo. I know I will enjoy my new place, though it will be much bigger than what I've gotten used to having. Plenty of room for family and friends to visit! I will not miss the 20 minute commute into Cochrane, especially in the winter and that big hill we have to travel down. Most of you know I am not a morning person, so I know living in Cochrane will be better for me in getting to work a bit before 8AM :) I have loved the town of Cochrane since the first time I visited in summer 1996. Just the size town for me, yet close enough to the big city...and of course, the Rockies!

The timing is crazy with moving. We are super busy and a bit overwhelmed at work and a few days ago, I got a cold so that is no fun. I'm glad it's a 4 day work week!

I ask you to pray for me as I continue to pack and move on Saturday with the help of a few friends. Please also pray for my physical health and that I will be healed from this cold and God will continue to give me the strength I need. Pray for me in this transition time and all that comes with moving. Pray also for Bob and Debbie and daughter Abbie and her husband Cam (who have been living in the house since late spring) as they all move next week. We will all be in Cochrane in different places.

If you want my new mailing address, just email me or FB me and I can send that to you. I won't have a landline, so will continue to have the same cell number.

Signing off from the community of Tuscany in Calgary...

the adventures of a three-year old

2011-10-10T21:08:00.005-05:00

Looking back through pictures, I realized that I forgot to blog about this...
So when I was back in the US for the first few months of the year, I split my time between my parents in south MS and my sister's near Nashville. On one of the last trips to my sister's, I was cleaning out the car to repack it with all my stuff and head back to my parents' place. My sister was in the middle of moving boxes from their front dining room. My three year old nephew, Knox, was playing out in the front yard by himself, but I was in and out of the house so kept a watch on him. Christy was able to also keep a look out on him from the dining room windows. It was a beautiful sunny day with lots of leaves on the ground. We noticed Knox playing in the leaves but didn't think much of it. Well, on a trip outside to the car, here is what I found:

Little Man Knox was playing with the leaves alright! And we thought we were watching him, but of course you can take your eyes of a kid for just a few minutes...

I didn't do anything but holler inside: "Christy, come look what your son has done!" Christy and I thought all this was hilarious and we were laughing so hard. We knew we had to let Knox know that you don't do that to the inside of a car, which was hard when you are laughing. Christy let him know, but he was oblivious and went on doing whatever he was playing with. She felt bad that he had gotten my car dirty, but I was just glad I hadn't packed everything yet. As I write, I now remember that I even found small sticks in the hubcaps! I also recall how we both said that we needed that laugh that day...Christy and I managed to get the car cleaned, though I think I still was finding leaves in my car a few weeks later!

oh the memories!

Reflecting on Ten Years

2011-09-05T19:17:00.005-05:00

(Be prepared for a lengthy reflection...)

Has it really been over ten years since I moved to Canada to study at seminary? Has it really been almost ten years when I began a focus on children's ministry as a seminary intern and then carried on full-time after I graduated? Have I really been friends with so many incredible people (some for 10 years) here who have become like family to me? Has it really been almost three years since I began my "job" with the CNBC? Have I really had six addresses in ten years?! (I just realized that today...and that I'll be adding another address to that list as I look for a place in Cochrane.) Where have the years gone?

Since mid-August, I've been reflecting on all this, as that was the time of year I moved to the seminary hill. Never would I have thought I would plant my life here, especially since I thought that after graduation, I would move back to the US and be a children's minister in a church. In the spring of 2001, I was close to the end of my second year of teaching and I felt the Holy Spirit telling me that I wouldn't be teaching in the fall. I soon realized God was saying "fully surrender your life to me". I surrenedered to full-time ministry and really, the rest is history! I found my journal from spring 2001, when I knew God was calling me to study at Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary. I made a preview visit and here's an entry: "Lord, I am in awe at things You've shown me on this trip and people You've brought into my life in just over 24 hours. I know you want me here - in August! There's no doubt and I pray You'll prepare me and others...I am in awe at what You're doing right now and that I've finally, I guess, said 'yes', I'm to be here...I know without a shadow of a doubt that this is it, but won't believe it until I'm here!" In August of that year: "Lord, I am just in awe of how providing You are and unworthy I am!" (I saw God meeting financial needs in big ways.) I just felt led to share those things here. I am sure that if I sat down and read my journals, there's ton more entries like that of how I was in awe of God and how He has provided.

When I reflect over my time in Canada, it's probably those things I think of the most ~ how the Father never ceases to amaze me and how He has been so Faithful and such a Provider for me. Words almost can't express...
I think of my time in seminary and the incredible friends I had while there, including faculty and staff. There are a number of those people I get to see on a regular basis since I work at the Convention office, which is on the same property of the seminary. Many of my seminary classmates are spread across Canada and we get to connect in various ways. God blessed me with the opportunity to serve as children's minister at Mountain View Christian Fellowship in Calgary and Community Baptist Church in PEI. The people who made up those congregations while I was there were wonderful and will always hold a special place in my heart. You allowed me to lead your children's ministry and entrusted your children to me. I am forever grateful. If someone would have told me that I would be serving with the Canadian National Baptist Convention as the national missions ministry leader, I would have thought they were crazy. Only God could have orchestrated that. I'm thankful that my boss, Salt Jones, listened to the Father when He put my name on Salt's heart about the missions ministry leader position. It is an honor and privilege to "work" where I do. I get to interact with missionaries on a daily basis (some weeks), help churches be on mission and know what mission resources are out there, and watch others join God in His activity in Canada and around the world!
It's also a joy to be a part of The Pathway Church in Calgary. We are a growing church where I am involved in the children's ministry (surprise, surprise) and I continue to seek God in His leading for what my exact role is to be. It's cool to see God at work in our church and its people and be a part of this family.

I wanted to include pictures of the past 10 years, but how does one do that? I don't think I could ever chose the right ones. I decided that I will keep it simple and just use this one:
I also know I must use it because of what the Canada flag means to me. The US flag means something to me because it's the flag of my home country. The Canadian flag means something to me because it's the flag of the country that has become home to me and the place that God has called me to. It means even more to me since I recently became a Canadian Permanent Resident! I think it's pretty cool that the residency process came to completion just after I was in Canada for 10 years. Wow!

I don't take it lightly that God has placed me here. I know I haven't always been about what He wants me to be about because I let life get in the way. It's not always easy being here, away from my family where snow can be on the ground for nine straight months and temps way below freezing! But God is good through it all, has been so Faithful to me and Provided for me in ways that are too long to list. I don't know why He chose me to be in Canada, nor do I fully need to know. I just know that I would not have experienced Him (I don't think) like I would if I was not here. I've learned much and continue to learn much about myself and the Lord. I've been able to experience different cultures and different churches. And for almost 3 years, I've been able to help others be on mission! That warms my heart...
While doing summer missions in 1996, I came with a group from Montana to Cochrane to volunteer at the seminary and help with VBS at Bow Valley Baptist Church having no idea God would have me back five years later. I spent the summer of 1998 near Vancouver, BC, at Royal Heights Baptist Church. It was then that I "fell in love with Canadians" and wondered if God might have me back in Canada. One never knows what God will do as a result of a mission trip!

"Thank You, Father, for being Faithful and a Friend...You have been with me each step of the way. I could never thank you enough. May I be found faithful. I love you, Lord."

Psalm 46:10
Jeremiah 29:11

Listening to the Rain

2011-05-26T22:36:00.003-05:00

Wow, it's been over a month since I last blogged. I'm not so good at this...

As I write, it's raining. It's been raining off and on since Sunday and lots today. Parts of the city are under a 'flood watch' of sorts. It doesn't rain here a whole lot, so the sound of the rain is kinda nice. As a missionary friend wrote in their newsletter, rain cleans things off, make things grow, and more...just like Jesus does in our lives! Though we are ready for spring to really arrive here, I don't mind the rain so much because the grass is getting greener and the flowers will really start blooming! I do pray for no flooding along the river areas. There's been enough of that in other parts of Alberta, Canada, the US, and the world!

Jesus does clean us up, help us grow, and so much more! I couldn't imagine my life without Him! What has the Lord been doing in your life lately?

Our convention of churches is into day 33 of our 50 Days of Fasting and Praying. This is a focused time where churches and individuals have been asked to pray for the lost of Canada, this country, more churches planted, more baptisms...you name it! Booklets/devotionals written by Tom Blackaby were printed in English, French, Korean, and Chinese and mailed out. It can also be accessed at www.cnbc.ca. (I so meant to write about this sooner!) I know God is doing, and will do, big things as a result of this joint effort! Our staff prays together on work days at 9:30. It's been a neat time together as we seek God's face, wisdom, and look to Him. CNBC churches, what is going saying in your congregations?

As for what God has been saying to me? More of a burden to pray for those who don't know Him...those I know by name and just the lost in general. To lift up our hurting churches and pastors...to ask for more workers for the harvest field (CNBC vision to plant 1000 churches by 2020 and we are at 270)...and to really seek Him in what my ministry role is to be at my church---I've taken on too much.

Today's devotional hit home, "...Part of fasting and praying is to put other people out of our mind altogether and focus on God...If you are having trouble focusing on God because you are too worried about the people around you, what they think, what they are or are not doing, then you must ask God to focus your mind and heart on Him and trust everyone else into His hands. This time is about you alone before God alone. Let God alone be your whole desire, nothing more and nothing less."

Pray with me as I seek for specific answers and that I will trust Him for all things.

It's a busy season for our convention as we plan for the annual meeting July 5-7 in Calgary. Remember us! It's also a busy time as churches prepare for summer outreach events. Pray for The Pathway Church and all we are planning to do this summer. Pray that I will have a calmness in my responsibilities with the CNBC and Pathway.

May you see God at work around you and join Him in it!

God is in Control

2011-04-18T22:54:00.010-05:00

Knowing God is in control became even more real to me on Saturday night.

I was driving home at dark after a great welcome back party at the Eagleson's (stay tuned for that post). It had been light snowing all day with just above freezing temps and had gotten worse as the night went on. Not even ten minutes from home, on Crowchild Trail, I noticed some cars stopped on the left side of the road, next to the concrete barriers by the transit tracks. I knew I better slow down as I figured it was a fender-bender. Well, I stepped on the brakes and could not stop as I had hit black ice! I then started steering, which I now know why I've been told you can't brake and steer at the same time! It all happened so fast and the next thing I know, I'm headed towards the concrete barrier...it sounded horrible when I hit it! My car finally stopped with the back of the car "facing" the concrete barrier. I first thought that maybe it had quit running, but then realized it and me were okay. I knew I better get my car out of the way, so I pulled over, facing the opposite direction of traffic, turned the hazards on and thanked God I was okay. I dreaded getting out to see the damage. I just knew my bumper would be hanging off of the car I've just had over a year. When getting out, I almost slipped as it was icy. After inspecting the car, I couldn't believe that the damage really wasn't that bad and only on the driver's side bumper...

AND that I did not collide with another vehicle nor anyone hit me! That in itself is a sheer miracle on one of the busiest roads in Calgary! Cars were driving by me pretty slow at this point and one couple did check to see if I was alright. (God bless them!!) I drove pretty slow on my way home and was so thankful to pull into the garage safe and sound. I still shiver a bit when I think of how it sounded when I hit that barrier and to think of what could have happened.

What else became even more real to me? Jeremiah 29:10-11 "...I'll show up and take care of you as I have promised and bring you back home. I know what I'm doing, I have it all planned out--plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for." (the Message) That verse and many others have been what I have clinged to these past 4 months...God isn't finished with me in Calgary, with the CNBC, in Canada, nor with my life!

When I got home, it was too late Central time to call my parents, so I called my brother Doug. His family and I attend the same church. Doug is like the big brother I never had and he's claimed me as the sister he's always wanted :) He prayed with me and I so needed that. I'm so thankful for his family. It was him that said, "Jesus Take the Wheel"...so I only think it appropriate to include that song/video here.

Getting Back into Routine

2011-04-06T22:33:00.002-05:00

It's almost been 3 weeks since I've been back to my home in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. So good to be back! Definitely an adjustment of getting up and going each morning, working 8 hours a day, arriving while it's pretty much still winter, catching up on things at work and church, "setting" up home, buying groceries and cooking for myself again and not being with my family...

I continue to thank God for His many blessings and provisions. Thank you for your continued prayers as I get back into life here.

I find myself still processing those 3 months while I was away from here. Thinking back through it all and what God showed me about Himself...and myself.

One specifc way that God answered a prayer was that I would get an extension on getting medical immigration exams done for permanent residency. Just after I left Canada, I got news that I was to do medical exams within 120 days and I didn't realize I could have done it in the states until I was about to head back. PTL that I was granted a 30 day extension to get that done and I was able to do all that just after I returned! I expect to have permanent residency by the end of the summer! This will make it so much easier for me to be here and no more renewal of work visa and all that mess! You can continue to pray for the residency process. By the time one gets to the medical exam, there's not a lot more to do.

Been great to reconnect with folks here! Great to be back with my church family!

Our CNBC staff is gearing up for New Minister's Orientation at the office next week. Once a year, we invite new pastors to come and hear all about the CNBC, network together and we get to hear God stories from across the country. I enjoy these times of meeting our wonderful leaders and helping them to know more of what we are all about as a convention. We will soon be in full prep gear for our annual meeting that is held in July. This year, it will be in Calgary at Richmond Hill Baptist Church, one of own churches! It's not too often that one of our own churches can actually host the entire meeting in their building...seeing that most of our churches don't have a building big enough to host or even have a building, for that matter. It will be a great time together.

"Be still and know that I am God" - Psalm 46:10

Finally Home!

2011-03-20T21:28:00.002-05:00

It is so nice to be sitting in my little basement suite...I have missed this place! It's wierd being back and I know it will take a bit for me to get into a routine again.
I am so thankful for God's provision and His faithfulness and for the prayers of my family and friends during this season of my life. Not counting God's watchcare over me, it was also knowing that so many were praying for me that helped me get through these three months.

We had about an hour at the border last night. The immigration officer needed to see a copy of my seminary diploma/master's degree as proof that I graduated from CSBS, as it is a qualification of the missions ministry position. He knew of this from the 'letter of invitation' I had to present. I had no idea they would need the diploma, since the position had been approved! Praise the Lord that Debbie was home, I knew where my diploma was, she found it, scanned it, emailed it to a friend from work/church who lives on the seminary hill (Thanks Jennifer/Jenna), who could go fax it to the border office from the convention office!! God was definitely in that! For a few minutes, it looked like there was another issue with the document being expired, but the officer had just misread the date! Whosh! I am thankful for the immigration officer who was fairly kind and 'just doing his job'. Once we were in the car and on our way into Canada, it was like a huge burden had been lifted off my shoulders; so many emotions ran through me. Finally...I was actually headed home!!! I settled into my own bed around 2AM!

Praises that we did arrive safe and sound as we drove through rain/snow and some snow packed roads once we crossed into Canada (Darla did most of that driving!). When we were near Great Falls, in northern Montana, there was a rain/snow mix. It was about that time that I texted a bunch of folks to ask them to start praying hard for the border crossing in about 2 hours and to pray for the weather. In less than 10 minutes, the sun was shining and it was clear!!! Thank you prayer warriors!!

It was wonderful to be with my Pathway church family this morning. Only one family knew I had made it back, so it was fun surprising everyone. I got some beautiful daisies and folks enjoyed a 'welcome home Ellen' with Canadian flag cake :) Sweet! I shared with the congregation about the past 3 months and what God has showed me and more. On 3 different days in a week, God showed me Matthew 7:7 "Keep asking and it will be given to you. Keep searching and you will find. Keep knocking and the door will be opened to you". Because I have seen God answer specific prayers, this verse holds even more meaning to me...

I will write more as the days go on and as I continue to process through things.

I ask you to continue to pray for me as I get into a routine here and "set up house" again. I haven't had to shop for groceries for 3 months! I am exhausted, so pray for my physical health. I left my family back in MS and TN, so please pray for that. We had gotten somewhat used to being around each other!

So looking forward to re-connecting with my Canadian family!!!

Alberta Bound - Day 1

2011-03-17T22:58:00.002-05:00

The first day of our journey back to Calgary/Cochrane is coming to a close after about 14 hours on the road! We drove from Mt. Olive, MS to Guthrie, OK (near Oklahoma City). We had great weather and nice sunshine and warmth the whole way. We got to visit with Mary and Stafford Bryant in Shreveport, LA, as Mary recovers in the hospital from cancer surgery. It was a sweet visit for us and we would have liked to stay longer, but Mary had had a rough morning and needed her rest. Please keep her and the family in your prayers at this time. Mary will have a month of recovery and then have at least 2 rounds of chemo. Pray for strength and healing. She is very weak and frail...

We know you are praying for us. so keep it up! Continue to pray for safe travels on busy interstates, we will be alert and healthy, and have good rest at night. Pray for a hedge of protection around us. I feel Satan attacking and trying to bring me down (literally), but we know our God is bigger! I've been waiting for 3 months to do this journey back and it's finally happening...!

Darla and I are enjoying ourselves...at least I think we are! LOL! We enjoyed some time on the Gulf Coast of MS on Wednesday as she flew into Gulfport Tuesday night. I had not seen some parts of the Coast since Katrina, so we drove around and saw what remained, is still to be done...after 5 1/2 years. Got to see the camp property at Gulfshore Baptist Assembly in Pass Christian, where I attended as a child and youth and worked at for the summer of '95. The building stands though the 1st and 2nd floors were gutted in the storm. It was somewhat eery seeing it like that with the other buildings around it completely gone...I believe it's in the process of being completely torn down.

Darla shared with my home church in Mt. Olive last night and I know they enjoyed hearing about her and Ken's ministry. Keep Ken in your prayers as he has joined a few others for a mission trip to Cuba for a week.

Oh, how could I almost forget to ask you to keep the border crossing in your prayers. Remember that is where I get the work visa (hopefully with no issues!). Customs and Immigration stuff is so nerve wracking for me, so pray I can "Be Still and Know that He is God". Would you believe that as we walked into Cracker Barrel for dinner tonight, the first thing I see is a beautiful print with that verse on it?! Needless to say, I had to buy it and will find the perfect place for it...

"Keep asking and it will be given to you. Keep searching and you will find. Keep knocking and the door will be opened to you." Matthew 7:7 (verse from 2 separate devotionals on Mar 14 and Mar 15...)

Well, until next time...Keep the prayers coming!

Preparing to Leave

2011-03-13T22:51:00.003-05:00

It was 3 months ago (Dec 13) that I had to leave Canada and I think my blog entry just before that was 'Having to Leave'. Well, I am now 'preparing to leave' to go back to Canada, the place that has become home and specifically to Calgary and my ministry with the Canadian National Baptist Convention and The Pathway Church!

Just on Thursday, I received the documents I need to get new work visa at the border, I received money that will help with expenses on the road, and my Canadian missionary friend Darla Ponath said that she could travel me! It was neat to see God answer my/your prayers in this way...I don't think I'll believe all this is happening until we are on the road, the work visa is in my hands, and we cross into Canada!

Darla will fly in on Tuesday night, have a chance to speak about her ministry at my home church in Mt. Olive on Wednesday night and we will head out on Thursday morning. We'll stop and see our dear friends Mary and Stafford Bryant in Shreveport, LA. They are Americans who serve as North American Mission Board MSC missionaries with our convention. Mary oversees our Mission Centre in Cochrane and Stafford serves in many different construction projects. They have been in the States since December. Mary has been undergoing cancer treatments and will have surgery on Tuesday the 15th. Please say extra prayers for her. Stafford recently began treatments for prostate cancer, so remember him as well. They are servants of the Lord and we look forward to the time that all of us will be back in Canada. You can follow their journey at www.carepages.com (canadalovesmary). Surely Darla and I will be home sometime on Sunday!

Tonight, the pastor preached on the importance of intercessory prayer. Oh, how powerful that can be! That is the role that so many of you have been taking for me. Please continue!

Pray for:
~my remaining time here and as I sort things and pack up
~for Darla's flight on Tuesday
~for our travels (safety, good weather, alertness, good health)
~for the border crossing and that all goes smoothly with getting the work visa. I feel pretty confident, but one really never knows how these things can go. Even though I have the document needed to get the work visa, that doesn't guarentee my entry into Canada.

God does continue to show Himself faithful. There is so much I could write about these 3 months and much I want to share. I shall do that in small segments in the near future. There were some weeks that each day's devotional/verse that I read went right along with my situation. I continue to be in awe at how God goes before us!

May you see God at work in your life...even in the difficult days and trust that He knows what He's doing! Thanks again for your continued love, support, encouragement, and prayers.

enjoy the moment!

An Answer to Prayers

2011-03-06T14:07:00.003-06:00

Praise the Lord that on Thursday, the Canadian government approved my position with the CNBC!!! This is the biggest hurdle, so there shouldn't be an issue with getting the new work visa at the border. I thank each and every one of you who have been praying for me and this process. Your prayers mean so much. God has shown Himself to me in big ways in the past few weeks and His timing is perfect!

I will write more later, but wanted to let you know the latest. Also wanted to let you know specifically how you can continue to pray.

Pray for just the right friend to be my traveling buddy. Pray for financial needs of traveling to be met. Pray for me to know how I am to spend my time until I leave. Pray for me as I say 'see ya later' to family and friends. Pray that I can continue to trust God in the timing of getting back to Canada. I wish I could click my heels and be there! Pray for my health. I have managed to stay well all these weeks, so I don't want to get sick now. Pray for the border crossing and all goes smoothly.

Thank you and blessings to you!

Waiting

2011-02-10T00:22:00.003-06:00

Well, I sure didn't mean to go this long without an update! I have been at my parents' place the past few weeks, didn't know if it would be easy to blog on dial-up, so I didn't want to attempt it. I'm back at my sister's, so computer and internet use is easier for me. Cold temps have been in the South lately and a few inches of snow fell pretty fast today, so we are 'snowed in' in Franklin with schools and much else closed.

Let me say 'thank you' for your continued prayers as I wait out this season of my life. Your prayers for me and the immigration issues mean so much! You will never know what it really means to me. There's really no news to report, except that the paperwork is in process and the CNBC office hopes to hear something in the next two weeks. In the meantime, I continue to wait. I wasn't sure how to title this blog entry, but since waiting is a huge part of my life right now, I thought it was appropriate.
There is much I could write about the '2 months ago since my life was interrupted so suddenly'. I almost don't know where to begin. I think I may write a book when all of this is over!
I will say that God continues to show His faithfulness and remind me of His promises; speak to me through Scripture, others, and circumstances. He has revealed to me reasons of why He has me here...even though my heart longs to be back to the place that has become home to me and I miss my "family" there so much. Honestly, this is probably the hardest season of my life. My first year of teaching in inner-city Jackson, Mississippi, was such a difficult time and one of total dependence on God...but this is different. Yes, I'm trying to depend on God in this season and trust Him, but this is just a totally different season.
I've been resting lots, doing what I can from away as a volunteer for the Missions divison of the CNBC, spending time with family and friends, and eating lots of those favorite things I can't get in Canada. I may gain 20 pounds through all this! Ha! I've enjoyed reconnecting with friends from different walks of life and ones I haven't seen in quite a while. I'm connected with two churches down here, so it's been great to visit with both church families. Of course, the time with my precious nieces and nephew is just wonderful! They continue to be my "therapy"! It's something how you long for one thing, but am glad for another...

I have no set schedule and really can't plan too far in advance...making decisions isn't the easiest for me right now, though I can pick out my clothes and what I will do that day. Guess I'm experiencing what missionaries do when they take their "furlough" time as I'm basically living out of suitcases with a few favorite things I brought with me. Hey, maybe that's another reason for all of this...being able to relate to our missionaries even more!

Speaking of missionaries, my devotional for this year is Voices of the Faithful - Book 2: Inspiring Stories of Courage from Christians Serving Around the World. I went through the first one in 2008 and was so touched reading the snippet of stories from missionaries and honored to be able to pray for them each day. Got the second book at a great price after Christmas, so I knew I needed to do this this year. Though I don't serve overseas, I know first hand what the prayers of others mean and I believe in the power of intercessory prayer. By praying for missionaries, you never know how they might be needing prayer on that given day...so pray for missionaries and not just in general, but by name! And even if you only know their intitials or first names and only their region or people group, God knows them and their needs!

Here is a snippet from Feb 7 (B serving Central Asian Peoples): After moving to her new place of service and teaching her third grade class about natural disasters and they get frightened...she knows God is saying to her "If I am bigger than natural disasters, don't you think that I am bigger than the homesickness that is overwhelming you?...I was reminded that I am never alone and that God, who holds the world in His hands, holds me, too." The verse was Zephaniah 3:17 ~ "For the Lord your God is living among you...He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs." Wow!
From Feb 8 (Candy serving Central Asian Peoples): "Listening, waiting, reflecting...I knew that God was teaching me that there was a time to be busy and a time to wait on His timing when He will bring about what He desires..." The verse? "Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth!" Psalm 46:10. Wow! I have been 'camped out' on that verse for a few years now...Need I really say more as He shows Himself to me...when I am drained mentally and emotionally and am tired of waiting...

In your own waiting seasons, whatever they may be, I pray that you will look to God and trust Him to meet all your needs...even when you don't understand...

Enjoy the moment!

Has It Really Been a Month?

2011-01-14T22:19:00.002-06:00

happy 2011! I pray it is a blessed year for you!

Well, yesterday the 13th was a month since I left Canada. Wow! Some days it seems like only yesterday and other days, I feel it's been months and months. I know a number of you are wondering what the latest is with immigration. Nothing to really report. The Canadian government phoned the office a couple weeks ago to say that if they hadn't heard anything by the end of the month to call. So, it's still a waiting game...and trusting in God's perfect timing.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for your continued prayers for the immigration process and as I wait on the paperwork needed to return. Knowing so many care and are praying means the world to me. Keep those prayers coming!

I've been splitting my weeks between my parents in south Mississippi (my ole house) and my sister's near Nashville, Tennessee ~ about 7 hours apart. It's been a blessing to be with family and God has already revealed to me reasons He has me here at this time.
On Tuesday, I returned to my sister's after a 4 day national WMU meeting in Birmingham, Alabama. It was wonderful to be with my missions minded sisters in Christ as we networked together and heard about God's activity around the world. I have developed wonderful relationships with many of these women and always look forward to our times together. Despite the circumstances of why I am here, I am so glad I got to attend the meeting that I look forward to each year...not the meetings so much as the fellowship, encouragement, and networking together. A major ice storm hit the South, so it was interesting in this parts the past few days.

I am continuing to ask God how He wants me to spend my time. I'm doing what I can as a volunteer for the convention despite the distance. We're in the midst of the next missions offering mailout. Lots of emails back and forth, but I know the ones overseeing things at that end will do a great job!
Some nights, I may sleep 10 hours! It's probably what I need right now as I think my brain is still fried from having to make decisions and leave and travel. Don't ask me to make too many decisions; I still can't do it! At least I can pick out my clothes each day...or most days! I've been able to connect with friends and look forward to seeing more, as well as extended family.

God continues to show Himself faithful through His word, song, and others. It's His promises that I hold onto!

In the uncertainties of life, may we ~
Be Still and Know that He is God and Enjoy the Moment!

Merry Christmas from Canada...via the South!

2010-12-24T23:29:00.003-06:00

Sending Christmas greetings from the South! Praying that you have a blessed Christmas wherever you are and whatever you may be doing. May we not get so busy and so "wrapped up in the unwrapping" that we lose focus on The Reason for the Season! Was great to go to the Christmas Eve service at my sister's church and sing those wonderful Christmas carols and hear a message about 'The Joy of the World'...and that Joy being Jesus...how He was sent as a baby and ultimately to the Cross for our sins so we could spend eternity with Him! As I write this, I think of two individuals (Mr. John Brewer and Mrs. Sammy Jo Crawford) from my home town who went to be with the Lord in the past couple of days. They have left a legacy and mark on our town and the lives of many. They will be celebrating with Jesus on His birthday! You can lift up these families in your prayers.

Well, I sure didn't think I would be sitting in my sister's home on Christmas Eve...with it beginning to snow! Yes, it's snowing in the Nashville area, so we will probably wake up to a White Christmas! What fun that will be! Obviously, I've seen plenty of snow, but not on Christmas!

There is much on my mind as I think back to what has transpired in two weeks. I am continuing to try to trust God and know He has the perfect plan for my life. Everything still seems a bit surreal...being here for Christmas when I didn't think I would and not knowing, really, how all the immigration stuff will come out. But, we don't really know how anything will turn out in life. We can plan and plan for even the smallest of things and our plans get changed. Every day is a gift...
I sure am missing my Canadian family! It's sometimes strange being back in my homeland, readjusting to life here, but my mind and heart with the people and place that has become home. Yet, I am still thankful to be here...

It has been a good week of getting some rest, loads of laughs with my precious nieces and nephew, and not having any set schedule. Crazy antics around the house! I am finding that the kids are my therapy of sorts because they bring such joy to my life and I always know there will be plenty of hugs, giggles, sillyness, and smiles to go around! I enjoyed getting to go to church with my sister last Sunday and hearing my brother-in-law Nathan preach. He is on staff at a Presbyterian church and will be starting a new church very soon! Mom and Dad got here yesterday, so we're all enjoying being together. Dad is fighting a cold so you pray for his healing. Great that Mom is seeing so well after her cataract surgery. PTL! Mom, the girls, and I played Old Maid last night. Dad, the girls, and I enjoyed a game of Sorry today. Playing games with the girls is one of my favorite things.
Knox likes to be a part of everything, loves his stuffed animals, being read too, singing "Jingle Bells" and snacking! He is just fun to play with and is quite the little character. He doesn't miss a beat and just loves it when he knows he's being the center of attention. Sweetest thing yesterday was when he, the girls, Christy, and i were having lunch. I shared part of the kitchen table stool with Rosalyn, as only 3 stools were out. Next thing I know, Knox is getting the 4th stool for me! Christy and I had been just been standing up. What a little gentleman at almost 3! I can see the spiritual maturity and intelligence in Rosalyn. Big milestones this year as she became a Christian and started 1st grade. She loves to play school, do arts and crafts, read, sing, and just be silly. Katie as really 'shot up' this year and knows so much as she started preschool! She is the cuddler of the three, loves doing many of the things that Rosalyn does, but is still independent. They both love to tickle!
I know it will be tons of fun with them as we open presents and play with new toys.

Well, as I look at the clock, I see it's midnight...so it's officially Christmas Day and way past my bedtime! I function so much better if I can get to bed earlier.

I thank you for your prayers as I continue on this journey. It means so much to know that so many are praying! You are such a blessing!

"For God so loved the world that He gave His One and Only Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life". John 3:16

We made it!!!

2010-12-17T21:39:00.002-06:00

Praise the Lord that we made it to Nashville/Franklin around 11PM last night! We took our time getting started with our day , had great weather, and was so glad we could get to our destination on Thursday. Even with our slight delay and not getting as far as we wanted to the day before, we still made good time.

So many of you have been a part of this trip as you prayed for us before we left and as we traveled across the US. As we've already said, we could feel your prayers!!!!

Jenna leaves early in the morning for a few days in Concord, NC. What a blessing that she will get this unexpected time with family and friends! She will be back to Cochrane in time for Christmas with her family. She has been an incredible blessing to me and I don't know what I would have done without her. I will miss her while we are apart.

It is wonderful to be with my sister and her family! Will see Mom and Dad on Christmas Eve when they come here for Christmas. I think it's all still surreal for me. I had pretty much come to accept that I wouldn't be here for the holidays and God had reasons for that. And now, I am here. It's still a whirlwind for me. That's just the best way to describe things...

God does continue to remind me of His promises and faithfulness and how He goes before us in everything. Just trying to trust Him and know He has the perfect plan.

Please pray for the Foreign Worker Application that was sent in by the office yesterday, for the third time. This is the application that determines if the job is approved and I get the document I need to return. Pray for the ones reviewing the application. With the holidays, it could take longer than usual for this process.

Thanks again for your continued prayers!

have a blessed weekend!!!

Third Day of our Journey...quite the experience!

2010-12-16T10:41:00.002-06:00

We could definitely feel your prayers last night as we were on Interstate 70 near Topeka, Kansas, and hit freezing rain...though it wasn't raining but the roads were slick. Traffic was slow with hazards on, truckers and cars pulled over, cars in the median overturned...Scary! But God was with us...

We are about to leave for Nashville area. Will get there when we can and may have to take an alternate route because of weather in other areas. Will see. Please continue to pray for us as we are on the last leg of our journey.

This is Jenna now... I think that the theme thus far in our trip has been trust. God has really been showing me (and I'm pretty sure Ellen as well) to just trust Him. To trust that He truly does know best regardless of how we feel. We've had to trust that He would take care of us in getting us across the border, trust that He would keep us safe, trust that He would give us wisdom in which routes to take, when to stop at night. We serve an amazing God!! He has taken care of us in the big and little things. Once again last night, as Ellen has already briefly shared about, we had to trust Him. At first we could not figure out what was going on. I was driving and as we started to see more and more cars with their hazard lights on, and some pulled over, the feeling that we began to get was not one of ease. The roads did not look wet to us and we weren't sliding but there was obviously something major going on that we weren't aware of. Then we began seeing cars flipped, on their sides and some had slid into the ditch. Still not knowing what was going on, Ellen text somebody to try and figure out what was going on as there was nothing on the radio about it. Once we found out what was going on and could tell that the roads were getting worse, it was a matter of trusting God! Trusting that He would get us to our destination safely. I kept reminding myself "Do not fear for I am with you!" As we have began each day, we have prayed that God would protect us, send angels to surround us, for Him to be the pilot and to keep us safe. It was just a matter of trusting that He would do so. It was also a good feeling to know that you guys were praying for us as well! We could definitely feel them as God guided the car straight to the hotel. So I thank you so much!!! I look back at His perfect record and just think that He hasn't failed yet so why would He fail now?! God is good! And thanks again for your continued prayers.

from both of us: how awesome that we got to have dinner at Cracker Barrel after that crazy drive! we love Cracker Barrel!!

Second Day of our Journey

2010-12-15T10:07:00.002-06:00

It's Wednesday morning and we're about to leave Denver. We drove 15 hours yesterday! But we got to where we wanted and we'll see how far we get today. We've had clear roads, good weather, and another good rate on a room! God is good...
Our happiest time yesterday was getting to meet up with our friend, Kaitlyn Sullivan (and a friend of hers) in Cheyenne, Wyoming. We had a great dinner and laughs together and she gave us U of Wyoming tshirts :)

I am learning some things about my "daughter" Jenna. She is expecting too much from me. Why in the world she thinks I'm supposed to unlock her door, open and close it, I do not know! But I think I will keep her around because she does a great job cleaning all the windows when we stop for gas! LOL! Seriously, things are going well...

After I blogged Monday night, here is what we read in my devotional from In Touch on December 13:
John 14:1, 27 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me." "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
Charles Stanley writes: What has a grip on your heart? Think about the things that trouble you...What are we supposed to do with all the challenging situations we face?...Yes, we will experience trials, but through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can endure struggles with the peace of Christ...But how do we move from overwhelming distress to undisturbed tranquility? Begin by focusing immediately on the Lord, not on the circumstance, trusting Him to help you through it. Read the Scriptures so you can understand His perspectives on the problem and search out His promises. Then believe God and do whatever He says, because you can never have His peace without obedience. And lastly, present your troubles to the Lord in prayer, not just with requests for their removal, but with thanks for His strength to endure them.

ok, God...wow! Do I really need to say more?

We can feel your prayers and ask you to continue to pray as we travel, for our health and strength. I am finding that I am mentally exhausted and haven't slept that well, although last night was better than the first.

So thankful for my dear family and friends! oh, Mom's cataract surgery went well! thanks for praying!

First Day of the Journey

2010-12-13T23:22:00.002-06:00

Thanks so much for your prayers as Jenna and I began our journey South today. I still can't believe what all has transpired in my life in just 4 days. It's one day at a time for sure!
We got into our home country just fine and were so relieved. We made it to Helena, Montana and got a great rate on a room! Would have probably driven to Billings from Great Falls, but because it was dark we wanted to take the interstate and not just the 2 lane highway. We hope to make it to the Denver area tomorrow night.
It was a beautiful sunny day today with mild temps in Calgary and even here! The half moon and starlit sky was sure nice.

God is continuing to show Himself faithful...as He has promised!
Please continue to pray for us as we travel. I'm thankful for a great traveling and driving buddy!

Please lift up prayers for my mom as she has cataract surgery on her other eye tomorrow (Tuesday) afternoon. Things went really well last week and she's seeing 20/20 in that eye! Having such good sight will be a great Christmas present for her...and of course, having me home!

Thanks to our dear sista Mary Parra for sending this to us via text today: "Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isa. 41:10)
That verse came as we were getting close to the border and a bit nervous...

I heard this favorite hymn tonight: "Because of the Lord's great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." (Lam. 3:22-24)

our highlight today? Eating a bite at Sonic in Great Falls!!! it's one of my favorite places and "hit the spot"!

Having to Leave

2010-12-11T01:15:00.002-06:00

I apologize upfront for those I have not contacted personally about the latest in my life. This is the easiest way to let all of you know what is going on with me. As most of you know, I have been waiting to hear back from immigration concerning work visa renewal. I found out last night (Thurs) via a letter in the mail that my work visa application has been rejected and I must leave the country immediately. This is all similar to what happened in 2008 when I came to Alberta to work. Had to go home and wait on the proper document in order to get a work visa. That visa has expired so I had to renew. The appropriate paperwork is still in process or having to be redone, so that's why the application was denied.

So, needless to say I will be leaving Calgary on Monday...driving south and thank the Lord that He has met my need for someone to ride with me and help me drive. My sweet friend and "daughter" Jenna will travel with me, get to visit family in North Carolina and will fly back to Calgary. Her dad is a student at our seminary; her mom and I share an office and have become the best of friends; and we attend the same church. Sometime last year, I realized that if I had had a child at 16, that child would be Jenna's age (18)...so she often calls me "mom" and I call her "daughter". Her younger brother often calls me "mom" as well and even got our kids' Sunday School class started on it last week. Too funny! Anyway...

I will be in the Nashville, TN area and Mississippi until the convention office receives the paperwork needed, mails it to me in MS, and I can head back and hopefully get a new work visa.

I was wanting to be with my family for Christmas and attend the national WMU meeting in Alabama in January. Because of immigration issues, I thought I wouldn't get home. I was bummed about all that but had pretty much accepted it and would make the best out of Christmas here and then 10 days in Prince Edward Island, where I lived for 18 months. As folks have told me today, take all this as a blessing and your way to do those things you were wanting to do. That is what I am doing. God is good through all of this and He is already showing Himself faithful.

I have a range of emotions right now. I was pretty much able to leave the office Friday with things done that needed doing. I have my "to do" list as far as packing and things to take care of before I go. Thankfully I had my car serviced and new winter tires put on a few weeks ago. Just need to get jumper cables and those 'winter preparedness' things one needs on the road in the winter! I've made the trek south in this time of the year before and that went pretty smoothly. Still have to plan out the route, check the extended forecast, etc.

It's somewhat strange preparing to leave when I don't know when, or maybe if, I will return. I feel fairly confident that I wll be back in due time...this is just a season...God showed Himself faithful before. I also am holding onto His Promises and that how I still have a peace about being here doing what I'm doing. I know that can change, especially when it comes to immigration...

So, that is what's going on and I covet your prayers during this time. Many of you have been praying already and ask how the process is going. Thank you! Pray for me to have a calm spirit and that I can think straight when packing and doing all those necessities. Pray for me as I continue to say 'see ya later' to those so dear to me here. Pray for Jenna and me as we travel (car, clear roads, good weather, good health, safety...). Pray for my family as I know they will be concerned wtih us traveling. Should take no more than 4 days. Also much has been going on in the lives of people my family knows...Pray for peace that surpasses all understanding in everyone's lives. Please lift up the convention and application that will soon be sent off for the document I need. Pray for officers reviewing the file.

I will be checking email periodically and recently set up a new email. Yahoo account is becoming overwhelming! You can email me at ellen.cone2001@gmail.com. Of course, Facebook is great and I'm able to access from my Blackberry. I have unlimited texting in North America, so feel free to text me at 403-671-1046. I will try not to talk on my cell much in the States as price goes up. If you'd like to talk on the phone, wonderful! I can send you numbers of where I'll be in the States.

I pray you and your family have a blessd holiday season and all the best in 2011! May we keep our focus on Jesus---THE Reason of the Season! He continues to change lives...including mine!

Thank you for being such a source of support and encouragement to me. You are a blessing!

Our Katie is now 5!

2010-10-04T23:16:00.005-05:00

Wow, where does the time go? To think that our Katie is now 5 years old and started preschool this year! Of course, "our" Katie is my sister's middle child...She brings such joy to my life, even with the time and distance separating us. I love talking to her on the phone!

I remember when she was born and the calls coming from my mom that October 4th, 2005 day. It was an exciting time as I waited to hear how things were going. There were a little bit of complications, but everything ended up just fine. We praise the Lord for our precious Katherine Noel!
She had a rainbow party today. How fun is that! When I talked to Katie this morning and she told me the kind of party she was having, I thought "I needed to hear that today"...a rainbow...just another reminder of God's promises! I called her tonight to see how her party went. My sister, Christy, had misplaced my birthday gift to Katie that I had sent along with Mom and Dad. She found it while I was on the phone, so got to open it with me! I can't wait to see her in person and spend tons of time together!

Thank you, God, for Katie and the special little girl she is! Watch over her in a very special way as she grows into the person you want her to be!!!

Continued Prayer for Immigration Process

2010-10-03T01:13:00.002-05:00

I'm continuing to ask prayer for my immigration process. Both my permanent residency application and extension of my work visa have been mailed off. Pray that things go smoothly and quickly! Pray that I can trust God completely and know He has a perfect plan for my future. He has been revealing Himself to me in so many ways lately and especially through His Word. May I not forgot His promises!
Thanks for standing in the gap!

A Highlight of What I Do

2010-10-03T00:45:00.002-05:00

One of the coolest parts of what I do is getting to connect with our missionaries and be the 'connector' for them and our churches. Some weeks, I am in touch with missionaries daily. Maybe I've received their latest newsletter or prayer requests. Maybe I'm needing to contact them for stories. Maybe we have pastors/leaders interested in an international missions trip, so I am connecting the missionary and the pastor. Maybe it's their birthday! Maybe I am just emailing to say, "how are you? You are being prayed for." I love rubbing shoulders with missionaries in this way!

I am finally going to begin to introduce you to the missionaries that are appointed by our convention in partnership with the IMB. We have 3 appointed, but a total of 17 units that have Canadian connections! It is these 17 that we keep before our churches - sharing their stories, needs, and making prayer cards available.

My friend, Jess, will be leaving on Thursday to go to a country and people group that is very unreached. She will be there for 2 years. God knows where she is going, so as you pray for Jess, He knows her needs and where she is! Jess is a recent university graduate who has already spent time overseas. She is a former youth minister in one of our churches and has a heart for reaching others. She will be leading teams that come into her city to reach the people in her area.

I have the privilege of being Jess' "gatekeeper" while she is away. If you would like to hear more about Jess and her work, just contact me at econe@cnbc.ca and I will add you to her newsletter list.

Pray for Jess as she prepares to leave on Thursday, as she travels, and transitions to a new country.

Standing in the gap...

Pray for Immigration Process...again!

2010-08-12T22:55:00.002-05:00

Well, it's that time again...to renew another Canadian visa so I can remain here. My current work visa expires at the end of September. I still feel led to stay here and the convention staff isn't tired of me yet (HA!), so I must send in my extention application. Without going into all the details and what that entails, just pray for this process and that all will go smoothly.

I continue to feel that God would have me here. God continues to show me that in a number of ways. If you had told me in August of 2001 that I would still be in Canada, I would not have believed you. It's completely God! A couple of months ago, I finally sent in my permanent residency application. Now, before some of you gasp, let me clarify that this does not mean I will not come back to the US. I'm here until God says otherwise. I just know this was a huge step I needed to take. I should have started it earlier...I know my application has been received, so it is being reviewed. There's a number of steps before it is final. I am praying that it will be a quick and easy process.

I ask your prayers for both of these things. It's nerve-wracking having to do all this, but it must be done. Pray for the ones reviewing my PR application and for the ones who will review the work visa extension application. Pray that I can trust God completely.

Thanks for your continued love, support, and prayers!

Convention Video 2010 now online

2010-08-10T23:52:00.003-05:00

Convention 2010 meeting in Toronto is now online! Click here to see what we as a convention of churches are all about and how our annual meeting it's not just 'another yearly meeting'. If you want to get a peek into what part of my position with the CNBC consists of, check out the Thursday evening Global Missions Celebration. I still need to blog about our wonderful time in Toronto and how God showed up. Enjoy!

I Love Calls Like This

2010-08-05T20:53:00.004-05:00

I often answer our phone at work and never know who will be on the other end. Will it be for me? Will it be a pastor needing to speak to someone specific in our office? Will it be someone I know and I get to catch up with them before transfering the call? Will it be someone calling about missions related things? Well, today I got a call from my mom! I love calls like this! That was exciting as I was away for almost a week on a mission trip and didn't get to talk with my parents. But I would have to say that the highlight (sorry, Mom!) was when I answered a call about missions related things in Canada. I love calls like this!

When our Partnership and Volunteers Ministry Leader is not in the office, I will often talk with the person to see what info I can give them and then pass the information along. Today's call was from a missions leader in northern Arkansas. Their committee had recently met and felt led to contact our office to see how they could be on missions up here. I love calls like this!

I could hear the excitment and passion in this gentleman's voice as he shared with me what he and others would like to see happen over 3-5 years. They would hope the partnership could be reciprocal. This is what we are aiming for in all partnerships. I told him that we could definitely make a partnership happen in some way and in some area of Canada. I was able to share with him a bit of my journey. He didn't know about our seminary up here. I love calls like this!

What I was most surprised about was when the call was coming to an end and this gentleman said, "Let me pray for you"! Wow!!! I usually expect to be the one to minister to others in some way, but God sent this man my way. He said the sweetest prayer for me...
I love how God does things like this when least expected...especially from someone I don't even know. Like he said in his prayer, "I look forward to when we can meet face to face." I can't wait to see what God is going to do as a result of the phone call today.
God is good and I thank Him for smiling down on me like that today.

My New Favourite

2010-06-26T01:20:00.001-05:00

"Lead You to the Cross" sung by No Other Name has became my new favourite. This arrangement is just beautiful. It is a beautiful song lyrically and vocally. It's also beautiful because it says what we as Christians - or followers of Jesus - are supposed to be about. Are we leading others to the cross? Do people see Jesus in us? Are we living it out by our actions and words? My prayer is that I can be more confident in leading others to the cross!

I have listened to the recording of this song so much in the past few weeks. I chose it to use in a video that highlights the international missionaries of our convention. That video will be played during the Global Missions Celebration at our annual meeting in less than 2 weeks. Folks will get to see most of the names and faces of our CNBC missionaries or ones with Canadian connections who are leading others to the cross all around the world. Over the next few months, I hope to introduce you to those missionaries.

Check out No Other Name and order their CD! You can't get it in stores, though a couple of songs are on ITunes. I recently got my CD in the mail and have been wearing it out! Some beautiful hymn arrangements...

May you be touched and really think about how you are leading others to the cross...

"Lead You To The Cross" Music Video

2010-06-26T00:49:00.001-05:00

I came across this video back in the fall while looking through promo material for the 2009 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. I saw it again recently at a mission focused church service that I was taking part in. I love this song and the video makes it even more powerful!

'Live with Regis and Kelly' to be in PEI

2010-06-26T00:28:00.003-05:00

I just came across an ad about Regis and Kelly taping in PEI. I had to see what that is all about. 'Live with Regis and Kelly' will be in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island in July!!!! Check out Tourism PEI for info and dates.

You better believe that I will be recording on those days! If you want to see what was home for me for a year and a half and one of the prettiest places in Canada, check your local listings so you don't miss it!
PEI friends, I'll be watching for you! Can't wait to see Canada highlighted!

ALS Run/Walk in memory of Jesse Morales

2010-06-07T23:50:00.003-05:00

It's time again for the ALS Run/Walk in Calgary this Sunday. I'll be a part of "Jesse's Girls' Team" as we seek to raise $25,000 for this terrible disease. Some of us will walk 5K, while others run for 8K in memory of our friend and pastor. If you keep up with my blog, you may recall that Pastor Jesse Morales died in August after an 18 month battle with the illness. Please continue to remember the family during this difficult season.
To find out about the ALS Run/Walk and to donate, go to http://www.als.ca/events/mysite.aspx?fid=3823. I am raising money, so if you would like to give, please let me know so I can include you in my pledges. You can give online. If you can't give, that's okay. Please pray for us as we participate on Sunday and as our church, The Pathway Church, holds a worship service prior to the service.

On behalf of Jesse's Girls...thank you!

Vote for my cousin Blake's Christian Song!

2010-04-18T20:36:00.002-05:00

My cousin, Blake Gosnell, is a Christian songwriter. I am so impressed by this young man's writing ability and so thankful that he is using his gifts for the Lord. He has recently entered one of his songs, “Layin’ It Down” into a Songwriting Event Contest hosted by Chris Tomlin’s Frequency Worship website. Songs were judged by Chris Tomlin, Christy Nockels, and Jesse Reeves. It was selected as one of ten songs to be voted on in the first week of this year’s event. FQ Radio is the internet radio station that features this week’s top ten songs that were chosen. Below are the links for listening and voting on this week’s selections, which include Blake’s song, “Layin’ It Down.” The Voting Deadline is Tuesday, April 20th.

FQ Radio LISTENING LINK http://fqworship.com/fqradio.php Instructions: The 10 songs featured are set to play at random when you open the link. In order to hear “Layin’ It Down” you may have to hit the next button several times in order for the song to come up on the player.

Frequency Worship Website and to Vote by Tuesday, April 20!!!!
Visit this link to vote!!! Click on the box on the main page and it will take you to the vote section. http://fqworship.com/

Thanks for voting for Blake's song! If he wins, I'll make sure that he thanks all of my friends who voted for him :)

Prayer for Friends

2010-04-14T23:10:00.002-05:00

Seems there's much going on in the lives of special people in my life. I sometimes find it to be too much, but I realize that it is a season of life and one when I must look to God even more.

I ask you to lift up my friends, Heather and Melissa, back in Mississippi. These young ladies and my sister and I grew up together. Their mother passed away almost 3years ago from a very terrible illness. Now, their dad is sick with liver cancer. Please pray for Benny's healing and that He will trust in Jesus! His mother is very sick in the hospital and the other grandmother has some health concerns. I find it all so unfair with what they are facing, but trying to trust in God through all of this.

A couple of friends are dealing with relationship issues. God knows who these are so pray for healing and complete trust and reliance on Him!

My heart breaks for my friends right now...

God continues to remind me of His promises. Just yesterday, someone shared this verse with me: "And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

Just tonight, I was reminded of these promises: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33
"Look at the lilies of the field...if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and gone tomorrow, He will certainly care for you. Seek the kingdom of God above all else and He will give you everything you need." Luke 12:27-28,31

May we trust Him at all times!!!

My New Car!

2010-03-14T23:03:00.002-05:00

Thanks to all of you who prayed for me and with me as I searced for a car. The search is now over!! Two weeks ago, I was able to find a 2008 Pontiac G5 at just my price and with low mileage. I call it my "God" car because only He could have provided this for me as He did. I do wish I had power locks and cruise control, but I will be just fine without them, seeing that I got it at my price. It gets incredible gas mileage and I feel it's just the car for me. It was a lease car and still has a bit of a new smell to it. God is good! Here's a collage of pictures of my new ride. Just click on the collage to enlarge it. These were taken outside our office, so you can see where I work and the gorgeous view we have!

"I Believe"

2010-02-15T21:27:00.005-06:00

"I Believe" is CTV's (Canadian network) official song for the 2010 Olympics. I love this song! This video is great and showcases Vancouver and the torch relay across Canada. The singer, Nikki Yanofsky, is the one who sang "O Canada" at the opening ceremonies. In my opinion, she sings this much better than she did the Canadian anthem!

Church on the Mountain at Whistler, British Columbia

2010-02-13T22:14:00.000-06:00

Church on the Mountain. Whistler Church.

This is our Canadian National Baptist Convention (CNBC) church in Whistler. Pray for this church as they minister to the people of Whistler and especially the visitors and athletes during the Olympic games. My friend, Marla Wright, from seminary, served at this church for a couple of years after we graduated. Kelly Mabey, a friend I made while in Vancouver in 98 is now part of this church.

Let the Games Begin

2010-02-13T00:26:00.003-06:00

What a great way to end an extremely busy and tiring week...watching the Opening Ceremony of the Vancouver Olympics! Wow...the emotions, the feelings, the excitement! So, if you watched the Opening Ceremony and don't live in Canada, do you feel you know a bit more about this wonderful country?! I even learned a few things myself from the presentation and commentators on our CTV (Canadian) network! Since I don't get any US channels, I don't know what they were showing or saying. My mom called and said that she has already learned things she didn't know. For those of you that don't know much about the country to the north of the US, I hope that you will learn much about this place that has become home to me...

As you watch the Olympics this year, pray for Canada and this nation that so needs Jesus! Our convention has the goal to plant 1000 churches by 2020; we have 275 across the country right now. Pray for us as we seek to meet this God-given and God-sized task!

Less than a Day and Counting

2010-02-12T00:05:00.004-06:00

originally written Thursday evening, February 11

I absolutely cannot believe that the Vancouver 2010 Olympics will have started this time tomorrow! I remember hearing about them being held and saying that if I am still in Canada, I am going! Well, I won't be making it, but I sure have been able to experience the Olympic spirit in Calgary. It's been a once in a lifetime experience for me and I am so grateful that the Lord is allowing me to be a part of this historic time. Until you experience it, it's hard to explain. Just take my word for it.

This Olympics holds a special place in my heart because I lived in the Vancouver area for the summer of 98, while serving at Royal Heights Baptist Church in Delta, near Vancouver. It was that summer that I wondered if I would be back in Canada one day. I made friends there that are some of my best ones to this day and I consider Vancouver like my second home. I will be watching this Olympics with excitement and gratitude!

I got to see the torch as it came through Calgary and Cochrane. What an incredible experience! Some friends and I went downtown to Olympic Plaza as the flame made an overnight stop in Calgary. I live in the city that hosted the 88 Winter Olympics, so Calgary knows what this is all about. I believe the Olympic Plaza was where medal ceremonies were held in 88. It's used as an outdoor ice rink and for various city festivities.

WE GOT TO SEE THE CAULDRON, JUST AFTER IT WAS LIT BY THE FLAME!

GREAT TIMES WITH FRIENDS AS WE CELEBRATE AT OLYMPIC PLAZA TOGETHER!

Two days after the Olympic Plaza event, the torch came through Cochrane, the town where I work and lived while I was in seminary. A good number of us from work took an early extended lunch to experience this historic event. It was neat to meet up with Cochrane friends in this town of less than 20,000. We lined the streets and watched as the torch bearer passed by us. Wow! Double wow when we realized the torch was being passed to the next torch bearer just up the road from where we were standing! On our way back to the vehicle, we went to Main Street (we had been at another street), and watched the torch again...and as it was passed to yet another torch bearer! Wow, wow, wow! This was a neat moment because I could see the emotion on the bearer's face.

MY DEAR FRIEND/CO-WORKER, CAROL, AND ME SHOW OFF OUR OLYMPIC MITTENS...JUST LIKE THE TORCH BEARERS AND ATHLETES WEAR!

I'm sitting here now watching the news and the pre-Olympic coverage. Too think things will have gotten kicked off by this time tomorrow. I cannot wait!

Some folks have asked which country I will be cheering for...well, Canada and the US! But how will I decide when the teams meet in hockey!? I may just have to be neutral, though it's really hard not to cheer for Canada when you're living here and it's the host country!

"O Canada...

"O say can you see...

Pirates Did Win STATE!

2010-01-31T23:37:00.002-06:00

How I managed not to blog about my hometown Pirates winning State Football Championship in their division, I do not know. Once a Pirate, always a Pirate, so I was super excited that they won...and in overtime! I hope to see a DVD copy of that game one day. The last time we won was in 1989, when Steve McNair was our quarterback. I remember that game like it was yesterday...
The 2009 win was bittersweet for our little town of not even 1000 residents, seeing that we last won in 89 and Steve died this past summer. His brother is one of the coaches for the team.
His son's team managed not to win in their division. Was a blow-out of a game, but watch for Steve McNair Jr as he plays for the University of Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles come the fall!
I think that Brett Favre's nephew's team won!

There's nothing like high school football in the South and if you haven't experienced it, you just have no idea what you're missing!

Steve McNair's son, Brett Favre's nephew, and the Mt.Olive Pirates

2009-12-02T23:40:00.002-06:00

What do all of these have in common? All are playing in the Mississippi High School Football State Championship games this week!

My hometown Pirates will play in Class 1A on Thursday night. The last time Mt. Olive won State was in 1989, when former NFL quarterback Steve McNair was our quarterback. I rememeber that game like it was yesterday! If you don't know about Steve, let me introduce you to the one who put a town of 1000 on the map when he took the Tennessee Titans to the 2000 Super Bowl. He later played for the Baltimore Ravens. Steve retired a few years ago and his life was taken suddenly in a shooting on July 4 of this year. We remember Steve and the "hometown boy" he remained, never forgetting his roots. Steve's oldest brother, Fred, is one of the Mt. Olive coaches.

Steve's oldest son, Steve Jr, now plays ball at Oak Grove High School, near Hattiesburg, less than an hour from Mt. Olive. Oak Grove plays in the Class 6A championship on Saturday. Seems that Steve Jr is quite the ball player like his dad!

NFL quarterback Brett Favre is from South Mississippi and his nephew is playing for St. Stanislaus on the Gulf Coast, in the Class 5A championship game. Just in case you don't know, Brett was the Green Bay Packers' QB for many years and is now with the Minnesota Vikings.

Mississippi is very proud of our star atheletes!

Will be awesome if Mt. Olive, Oak Grove, and St. Stanislaus win State!

GO PIRATES GO!

Prayer for a Vehicle

2009-11-17T22:31:00.003-06:00

Wasn't I just looking for a car in '07?! This is not something I really want to be doing...again...but I must.

My 2000 Ford Taurus gets me where I need to go and got me across the country, but I have had to put way too much money into that thing and now it has a coolant leak, but not a leak that you can see, i.e no puddle on the ground, so that means it's leaking into the engine! uh, that's not good! It's more than likely this coolant leak that is causing me to have no heat! I need heat in Calgary. I can't afford to put any more money into this car, as I have pretty much spent what I paid for it.

Please pray with me as I search for just the vehicle for me. Because I drove an SUV for 6 years, it's still "in" me, so I would love to have another SUV...but in reality, I probably can't find one in my price range, but who knows. I need something reliable, low maintenance, preferably low mileage, definitely automatic, all-wheel drive or 4X4 for the Calgary winters, and something good on gas. Though I have been to some car lots on Sunday afternoons and looked at things on-line, I must admit that I am a bit nervous in going to a dealership or even dealing with a private sale. I just want to make the right decision and not get taken advantage of. Pray that I have wisdom in finding the right vehicle! In the meantime, please pray that my car will continue to run. I don't want to be hasty in buying a car, yet I need to get something soon.

Thanks for praying!

Remembering Mom Karen

2009-10-25T22:48:00.002-05:00

To think that it was a year ago today that we celebrated the life of a precious soul on this earth, Mrs. Karen Harris. During the summer of 1998, while I was serving at Royal Heights Baptist Church near Vancouver, I became very close to the Harris family. They took me in as one of their own. It wasn't very long until Mrs. Karen became Mom Karen to me. She would usually sign cards and emails to me 'from your North Delta Mom' (they live in Delta, a suburb of Vancouver) and I became 'your Mississippi daugther'.

Mom Karen had the gift of making anyone feel special. She took such good care of me each time I visited the family.

In August of last year, she was diagnosed with cancer in her sinus cavity. In less than 2 months, on October 18, she was gone. I couldn't believe it and I think there are still days that it's surreal for me. I've made 3 trips to the Harris home since Mom Karen was called Home and it sure was wierd not having her at the house. I am so thankful to have known her and that a part of her will always be with me in so many different ways, including her daughter, Becky, being one of my best friends. Mom Karen loved Anne of Green Gables and the Maritimes. I'm so glad that I got to experience what she loved so much.

The entire Harris family are so very special and my life has been enriched by knowing each of them.

In the collage are just a few pictures of my favorites with her. The top left one was the last time I saw her. It just so happened that God allowed them to visit PEI the summer of 07. I'm so thankful for that lunch and visit we got to have. The middle one was from her son's Matt (Amber)'s wedding in April.

Being Thankful

2009-10-13T22:25:00.004-05:00

We celebrated Thanksgiving in Canada yesterday. Even though I've been in Canada for over 8 years now, it still seems wierd to celebrate Thanksgiving in October! But hey, being American, I get to celebrate it somehow next month too!!

With it being the Thanksgiving season, I've been thinking about what I am thankful for. My last few blog entries have been about the difficult times lately, so I thought it was time to be a bit more positive.

Here's my top things I'm thankful for:

~that Jesus didn't give up on me, that He saved me and I will spend eternity with Him
~how God provides for me and I have Him to turn to each and every day
~my precious family who I miss dearly
~friends all around this world
~my Canadian family who shows such love to me and makes me feel like part of theirs (there are a number of families that feel like my own)
~the churches God has allowed me to be a part of
~music that speaks to the soul
~clothes on my back, a car to drive (even if the heat isn't working right now, but it gets me around!), food in my cupboards, a roof over my head in the basement suite of a wonderful couple that I work with
~a wonderful job where I work with incredible people and get to interact with missionaries and help educate our churches about missions
~laughter
~smiles
~children
~and the fun things that life brings

As I communicated with some missionaries last week about stories for our International Missions Offering prayer guide, I told them that I am so thankful for how they give themselves away to advance the Kingdom of God! As I read more of their stories and get their prayer requests, I realize the sacrifices they are making in serving our Father.

What are you most thankful for?

I am so blessed! In the difficult times, may the blessings around us keep us going!

Prayer for my PEI friend, Cindy and her boys

2009-10-04T22:13:00.004-05:00

I got word Friday night that my friend, Cindy, in PEI, lost her husband, John. He passed on Friday afternoon, a day after their 4th anniversary. John has been sick for awhile. I pray he knew the Lord and is all healed! Cindy has children from a previous marriage and 3 are still at home: twin boys who are 12, I think, and another son who is maybe 13. Please keep Cindy, Jeremiah, Elijah, Isaiah, and John's children in your prayers. The visitation is tomorrow night with the funeral on Tuesday.

I met Cindy and her precious boys the summer of 2007, when Seth, Freda, Kendall, and I were involved in ministry in Slemon Park, 45 minutes from Charlottetown. I only saw John a few times when I would visit Cindy and the boys. John was usually sleeping because he wasn't feeling well. Community Baptist has been seeking to plant a church in Slemon Park for many years. We feel that Cindy is the 'person of peace' or the Lydia in this area of Prince Edward Island where there is no CNBC church. Community was able to meet some practical needs for Cindy and her family and she and her boys were our faithful ones as we sought to have a weekly ministry in Slemon Park.

I have been able to keep in touch with Cindy since I moved away and was able to briefly chat with her via yahoo yesterday. Obviously, they are very sad and she feels lonely, heartbroken, and empty. She knows that she and the boys will get through this together. Please pray for God's strength and peace during this time.

I also ask you to pray for my friend Frances in North Carolina. She came with a team to PEI the summer of 07, as they did ministry in Slemon Park and another area. Frances' sister passed away suddenly last weekend. Frances is the oldest of eight with neither parent alive and another sister died in early 07, I think. Pray that Frances and her family knows God's peace in a powerful way.

(Frances is 2nd from left, standing)

from the words of Paul: "All praise to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the source of every mercy and the God who comforts us. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. You can be sure that the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. So when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your benefit and salvation! For when God comforts us, it is so that we, in turn, can be an encouragement to you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. We are confident that as you share in suffering, you will also share God's comfort." (1 Corinthians 1:3-7 NLT)

Love Happens

2009-10-04T21:43:00.003-05:00

Have you seen 'Love Happens'? www.youtube.com/watch?v=JB4NxGvd4kI

I wasn't sure about going to see it because I hadn't read any reviews and the last thing I really needed was a chick flick and a movie that wasn't worth my money. Well, I can say that it wasn't too bad...I could have done without the language, but that's Hollywood for you. I am not one to recommend a movie when it uses the Lord's name in vain. Take the language and sexual references out and this movie might have an A+ in my book.

I thought 'Love Happens' was gonna be all about a man and woman who meet and fall in love when least expected. Sure, that was the gist of it, but the main character is an author who is now a celebrity because of his self-help book. His wife died and he wrote a book about his experience with dealing with grief. I'm not going to spoil the movie for you, in case you haven't seen it, but the title deals with much more than love between a man and a woman.

This movie has really got me thinking about how I deal with grief. Death has really hit home in the past 2+ years and I sometimes wonder if I have dealt with it all as I should be. We all deal with death differently and it's a process. I'm just thankful that I have God in my life, so I can somehow try to make sense of things.

If you haven't seen the movie and plan to, take your tissues. You'll need them!

It's been quite the month plus...

2009-09-28T00:01:00.007-05:00

I wouldn't have thought I would have attended a second Celebration of Life Service in a month. This one was for the husband of a friend. Don passed away at the age of 62 from a massive heart attack over a week ago. It was so sudden, but he knew the Lord. His wife, Laurel, worked at the seminary while I was there and she was my former church's treasurer for a time. What a sweet lady! I didn't really know her husband, though I remembered him when seeing his picture. When I left the service on Saturday, I felt like I knew him a bit better. It was a beautiful testimony to Don's life and service to the Lord and love for his family and many passions he had in life. Please keep the Miller family in your prayers (daughter Jennifer, son Chris and his young family).

My dear friend, John, got the results from his brain tumor on Thursday. Not the best news. It's in Stage 3 and is incurable (but we know God could work miracles). He will start 6 weeks of daily chemo and radiation in mid-October, with a 2 week break. Doctors said that 50% of patients have 3-5 years with some living to 10 years. We are praying for at least 10good years! John will turn 50 in December and says he will celebrate his 60th! John is self-employed and owns a commercial sheetmetal and plumbing business. He will eventually sell the business and will be semi-retired. John and his wife Debbie plan to travel! The family already had a trip planned to Mexico in a couple of weeks. The doctors said it was fine for him to go. Please keep John and the family in your prayers as they embark on this journey with cancer. Pray for John's continued healing from the surgery. Debbie is clinging to a verse that God showed her just days before John's surgery: Psalm 27:14 "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." That's one we should all look to!
For those who don't know John, here's a face to put with the name:

I'm not sure what to really think of everything that's been happening. I'm just thankful that I have God to look to in these difficult times. I am realizing more and more how fragile life is and that each day is a precious gift from God. As my friend Jesse Morales said in July 2008, "If today was your last day on earth, how are you impacting this world for the Kingdom?" Definitely something I try to remember each day and do something!

We're not promised tomorrow, but we do know the One who holds tomorrow and we can hang on to His promises!! Sometimes, that's all we can do...

Update on John Eagleson

2009-09-15T22:16:00.002-05:00

Thanks for praying for John. He had the majority of the tumor removed yesterday. A small portion wasn't removed because removal would affect his speech and motor skills. The family has had conflicting information given to them about what's going on with John, so that's frustrating. As it stands tonight, they still aren't sure if the tumor is cancerous, but radiation and chemo has been scheduled for later this week, if it is needed. He did have an MRI tonight, so hopefully they'll know something soon. As a result of pain and brain surgery, John is not himself. Please pray for his healing. We have to remember the John we know and not the effects of the tumor!
I was able to visit with John and Brandy at the hospital tonight. It was good to see them and just get a glimpse into what John and the family are facing. I went by the house and got to visit with the rest of the family while they were home for dinner. Their church has been providing meals for a week now! What a blessing! I'm glad I was able to visit with them and get more details on what's going on and not going on.
It was a hard afternoon for me after Jessica called and said they got news that the tumor is cancerous and he will begin radiation on Thursday, they'll see what stage the cancer is in and chemo may be needed. Woah...You know this is a possibility, but I didn't want to hear it. I went to the hospital and Brandy isn't seeming like they received that news today and she even made a comment about we don't know if it's benign or not, so until we know...I thought, "Either Jessica was wrong, I totally misunderstood, or Brandy doesn't know"! I was glad to get to the house and get the story straight. When I walked in Jessica said, "Mom, will you please tell Ellen what's really going on because we're all confused". Debbie cleared up some things for me...they are a bit frustrated, but what can you do.
Maybe God used today to prepare me even more for what could come. There's a reason for everything and as my dad said today, "Keep the faith"! That is what I am trying to do and reading all those stories in the Gospels of how Jesus healed so many!

Continue to pray for the family in this time as their whole world has changed overnight...

Prayer for Friends

2009-09-13T23:23:00.003-05:00

Seems it's been quite the year or more for illnesses and deaths. I told my mom last night that I didn't want to hear about anybody else being sick or dieing. Sometimes it just seems to be too much, but doesn't it usually come like that, all at once? I'm just thankful that in these difficult times, I have the Lord in my life and can look to Him!
I just wanted to take this spot to ask you to intercede for friends. Some of you may know the ones I will mention. Whether you know them or not, I ask you to pray for them and their families. Intercessory prayer is so huge!

What's heavy on my heart tonight is that my dear friend, John Eagleson from Calgary, will have brain surgery tomorrow (Monday) morning at 7:30Mountain Time. Just over a week ago, John had a major seizure in the middle of the night. CT scan revealed a huge mass on the left side of his brain that has been growing for quite a few years. He really had no signs. Seems that the tumor is malignant, but until the doctors take the mass out and get it tested, we're not 100% what is going on. Please pray for John as he has surgery. Pray for his wife Debbie during this time. Ask for strength and peace for her. Pray for daughters Brandy, Jessica, and Amy---all under 30. Jessica is married to Dayton and they have 2 daughters, Athena and Kaylee. Pray for John's parents and siblings and a host of extended family and friends. Pray for John's recovery. Pray that all of us will remember that God is in control. The family has already seen God working in many ways and all are encouraged by that. The reality of everything just hits at times...
John and his family have made me feel like part of their family from the time I met them. We were at Mountain View Christian Fellowship together and they have had me at many family functions and have just 'loved on me' during my time in Calgary. John and his wife have been somewhat like surrogate parents to me, seeing that I am far from my own parents.

A young friend from my hometown and church was recently diagnosed with lupus and a blood disorder called ttp. I need to research more about both diseases. Mallory Batte will always hold a special place in my heart as I remember when she was born, watched her grow up, and when I served as children and youth minister at the church, she was part of my group. I believe I saw her come to know the Lord and be baptized! Mallory is not yet 23 and has been in the hospital for a few weeks now. Pray for complete healing of her body, that she can be released from the hospital soon, and that she'll have the strength she needs during this time. Pray for her parents Doyle and Kathy, and sister Miranda and her young family. Pray that this time will grow all of their faith!

I found out last night that Mr. Bob Allen from my hometown passed away last week after having a brain aneuresym (spelling?). His wife, Mrs. Gloria Allen, was my high school English teacher who ended up being a dear friend. He was one of our town pharmacists for many years. The Allens are incredibly gifted in music and used their gifts in many different ways. Pray for Mrs. Allen in the sudden loss of her husband. They didn't have any children. Pray that she and family and friends will take comfort in Jesus!

My dear friend, Jackie Rettig, phoned today. I was about to call her! She and her husband, Kevin, became wonderful friends of mine while in seminary. Kevin and I were in class together and Jackie managed our bookstore. Since he graduated, they moved to his hometown in Montana and are pastoring a church. They have a 4 year old daugther, Fiona. In the spring of 2008, Kevin was diagnosed with multiple myeloma (spelling?) that has basically 'eaten' up a lot of his spine. He has been undergoing extensive treatment with trips to Salt Lake City. They are back in Montana and Kevin is preaching again, after being in SLC for a few months. He is doing farely well, regaining his appetite and strength each day. His immune system is low, so they have to be careful with that. They will continue treatments at a local hospital. Pray for his healing and strength for the family. Kevin and Jackie are in their early forties. Pray that people will continue to see Christ in their lives and they can be a light to others.

Continue to pray for the Morales family (see posts below). Kathy and Emily are the ones at home now, with Emily at school each day. Pray for strength for Kathy as she adjust to not having her husband there. Pray for Emily as her dad is no longer there with her. I contine to be encouraged by the family's faith and how I see God at work in Jesse's passing. Reports are that folks became Christians at the service and I think God's at work in the life of our little church as new faces are there! We had a young man playing the drums today who was saved at the service! An elderly lady was there today who is the Morales' neighbor. She felt led after the celebration service for Jesse that God wanted her to help with the children at our church! Oh, how we see God working during this difficult time. It's in these things I see reason for Jesse's illness and death.

Some good news this week was that I found out that two friends are expecting babies!! Yippee!! I needed that good news!!! Pray for Erin and Heather and the little ones that God has created inside them!

In the midst of all this life stuff, God does remain faithful and He will give strength when it is needed most. His Word is full of those promises!

Celebrating the Life of a Faithful Servant

2009-08-24T16:08:00.003-05:00

I attended the Celebration Service for Jesse this morning. It was a packed church with many family and friends present. I looked around the sanctuary and in the foyer afterwards and saw so many folks I knew who are a part of our church and convention family in some way. I knew that Jesse's service would be a church service. We worshipped the Lord today! Jesse would have only wanted it that way. It was a 2 hour service filled with music, testimonies, laughter, pictures, and the Gospel message. It was a sheer celebration of the life of a faithful servant (that's what was on the front of the printed program) and the Jesus that he served! This is what a funeral should be, especially for those who have accepted Jesus into their life. Yes, we are saddened because Jesse is no longer physically with us and we won't see him on this side of Heaven, a wife is left without her husband of 29 years and daughters are left without a father, and young grandchildren no longer have their Papa around...BUT, we rejoice that Jesse is with His Savior, completely healed of a terrible disease and that for those of us who are believers, it is not "goodbye"...only "see ya later"! The Gospel message was presented and folks had the opportunity to pray to become a Christian. Oh, how I pray those there who didn't know Jesus are now a child of His!
I couldn't help but think that I would want my service to be like Jesse's: celebrating the Savior I serve and what He's done in my life...and hoping that others can experience the Jesus that I have!

Prayer for the Morales family

2009-08-19T23:12:00.004-05:00

Jesse is now healed and walking, talking, smiling, and maybe even dancing with his Savior! He battled ALS for over 18 months and was called Home on Monday. You may recall reading about him and his family when I posted in June about the ALS Run/Walk that I was taking part in. Thank you for your prayers during Jesse's illness.
I've already posted about Jesse, so I won't say much more about him. I will say that it was wonderful to see how God used Jesse's illness to bring people to faith in Christ! I can't wait to see what God will do even in his death!
Read about his journey by clicking on 'Jesse's Journey'.

Pray for his wife, Kathy, a wonderful woman of God. We share a love for our Lord and children. We co-taught grades 1-6 in Sunday School in the spring and do great at bouncing off each other! I look forward to more teaching together. Pray for daughters Angela (Jordan and their young children Ethan and Mia), Christina (Frankie), Stephanie (Mike), and 14 year old Emily. They are all wonderful young women and men of faith. It's a joy to be in the same church with most of them. I have watched the girls lead us in worship on many Sundays, yet knowing they were having difficult days. I am so encouraged by their walk of faith.

Here are a few pictures from the ALS Walk/Run:

Visitation for Jesse is on Saturday, with the 'celebration service' on Monday. If you can, say extra prayers these days!

Also, please keep friends and church families in your prayers. Jesse and Kathy started a Filipino church, The Bridge, and then The Pathway Church( formerly Symons Valley), in Calgary. He is an alumni of our seminary, so their family has been a part of our convention work for many years.

On behalf of the family and friends, THANK YOU!

Reflecting on the past 8 years

2009-08-18T22:44:00.020-05:00

I have now been in Canada 8 years! Wow, I can't believe it. If someone would have told me that I would move to Canada for seminary and end up staying, I probably would not have believed them...but, it was these two dear friends pictured with me who knew I would be here! I met Alisa D Taylor and Alisa Harrison Gillis while in college when I knew them as Alisa D and Harrison! We ended up being at Morrison Heights Baptist Church together and shared an apartment in Clinton from the fall of 2000 to summer 2001. It was during this time that God was dealing with me about Canada and I do recall the girls telling me that I would be in Canada. They knew how much I loved Canada from my summer in Vancouver in '98, as well as the mission trip to Cochrane while in Montana during summer '96. Canada never really left me. Once you get a bite of it, watch out! Taylor and Gillis, you girls knew, and how cool it was that you were able to come visit me when I first lived in Calgary and get a taste of my life here! I love y'all!

I've been thinking a lot about the past 8 years and the journey that God has taken me on and how He has been so faithful in so many ways. I could write a book on all I've seen Him do during my time in this wonderful country! My plan was to come for seminary and go back to Mississippi and be a children's minister in a church. I got hooked on mininstry in Calgary and specifically at Mountain View Christian Fellowship. It was an overall wonderful experience for me during those 5 years at
that little church. I made some incredible, life-long friends at seminary and MVCF. My life has been forever touched and changed. The staff and congregation of MVCF allowed a seminary intern and fresh-out-of-seminary grad to lead the children's ministry and grow together! What a joy to be a part of Meleah becoming a Christian, seeing God at work in lives, having the privilege to baptize Ben and Shay, lead in VBS, sports camp, block parties, MS mission trip for Katrina relief work, seeing my church back home come to MV 3 summers, help in church plants, and more! God has been so good...

Just a few highlights of sem and MV days/friends:

I left Calgary and MVCF in December '06 to take on a different adventure on the other side of Canada. I now know that one reason God allowed me to be in ministry in Atlantic Canada, a pioneer area for our convention work, was because He was preparing me for my current ministry with the CNBC. I now have a bit more taste of our work across Canada. The move to PEI gave me a much needed break from a city of 1 million people! God allowed me to meet some incredible people and again, make life-long friends, in Prince Edward Island, as I served at Community Baptist Church. He allowed me to be in ministry again with dear seminary and former staff members of MV, John and Erin Evans.
What a joy to be a part of VBS, sports camp, community outreach, church planting, convention meeting in PEI, children's lives and much more! God is so good!

In the eight years I've been away from my Southern home, the Cone family has grown by 3, or really 4, since my sister got married just over a month before my parents and I traveled up to Cochrane! Nathan is such a blessing to our family. Rosalyn will be 6 in a couple of weeks, Katie will be 4 in October, and Knox is 18 months. Wow! They are the joys of my life. Since maybe before Rosalyn was born, I have prayed that my sister's children will know who I am--seeing that I live so far away from them and time between visits can be long. God has answered that prayer! I'm not just a name or face! They are precious and though it's sometimes difficult being so far from my family, I'm thankful for modern technology!

For whatever reason, God has placed me with the Canadian National Baptist Convention as missions ministry leader and SEND team assistant. It will soon be a year since being back in Alberta! I have the privilege of helping educate our churches across Canada about missions, coordinating our missions offering efforts, "rubbing shoulders" with our missionaries around the world (mainly via email), and working with an incredible group of people. I got my start in missions while in college. University ministries falls under the SEND division, so I somewhat feel like I've come full circle as I get to interact with our university ministry leaders in different ways. God is stretching me with having me in an office job from 8-4, 5 days a week, but I have enough variety in my job that I don't mind it. Though I'm not in children's ministry full-time, I have different opps with my position to still be a part of children's things through missions education. Of course, I am involved in children's ministry at my church, The Pathway Church in Calgary. I've been at the church for a few months now and am enjoying getting to know folks in this church plant of about 4 years or so. And yes, I am living back in Calgary, but not so much in the city as I used to live. I live on the outskirts of the city, in a subdivision that is only 20 minutes from Cochrane. As I drive to and from work each day, I get to see the city skyline and then drive down the big hill into Cochrane and then back up a hill to our office, just across the field from the seminary I graduated from, and get to look out the window at the town of Cochrane. Seeing both Calgary and Cochrane each day has me "claiming" these places for Christ!

I thank each of you for your support, love, encouragement, and prayers through these 8 years. It is not always "easy" to be here, but through your prayers and more, God shows me that He wants me here. Folks ask, "how long do you plan to be here?" I don't know...I just know God has called me here for this time of my life. It is a joy to serve Him!

Remembering my Precious Grandmother

2009-08-10T00:03:00.003-05:00

Saturday, August 8, would have been my grandmother's 82nd birthday. "Murie" (mu-e) was the one who passed away on February 28. Since this was the first birthday that she was not on this earth with us, I thought of her so much. Mom and I chatted about that tonight. My sister was at my parents' place last week and went through a lot of my grandmother's things. They've set aside a pile for me, so I'm looking forward to seeing what else is there. I have a few "treasures" of my own that I already found!

Murie was one of the sweetest, Godliest ladies I knew. She, my sister, and I had a very special relationship because we were her only grandchildren. I have such fond memories of times together. It's still strange to think that I have no more grandparents on this side of Heaven. I take comfort in knowing that we will be reunited one day!

I remember when Murie started really getting sicker and wasn't able to do the things she used to and especially when she couldn't verbally communicate. That was probably the hardest of her illness. I recall one Christmas where she was all smiles, but you knew she wanted to say something and couldn't get it out. She, my sister, and Mom just stood there, hugging and crying, along with Murie. I was sitting, crying as well. Mom told Murie what a good mother Christy was and that it reminded Mom of her! It is in these times when reality sets in and you feel so helpless. At that time, Murie was able to still walk and do things for herself.
I remember times on the back porch swing with Murie, just sitting there. We always had great talks, but in the last few years, the visits without talks became even more special. I would often say my goodbyes and knew Murie wanted to say something...
It was precious to watch Murie with her great-grandaughters! She loved them so and would smile so big whenever she would see them. Did she even know who they were by the end of life? We don't know, but thankfully she got to meet her great-grandson!

Murie was one who never learned to drive! It was fun to take her places when I got my license! She grew up in the hills of East Tennessee, near Nashville, and that's where she and Grandaddy met. Mom told me that they married when Murie was still in high school (because they just couldn't wait), but no one knew they were married! They waited a bit to tell the family. What a hoot! Grandaddy, Murie, and Mom moved to the Mississippi Delta when Mom was 3, as Grandaddy could support a family better there. Tchula was where I have such fond memories as a young girl. Their house was right by a big lake, so we had fun feeding the turtles. Loved our times on the swingset, lemonade and cookies, and helping in the garden. It was Murie who introduced me to eggplant and oh, how she made some of the best pickles! She was a wonderful cook!
We had even more special times as she moved to Mt. Olive after Grandaddy died. She was able to rent a house right on Main Street, so she was in walking distance of church, stores, and our school. We would often walk to her house after school. She took care of me during and after a hospital stay in junior high as we had a similar condition. She came to our band performances and anything special at our church (she went to First Baptist in town and we were at Rock Hill, about 10 minutes out of town). She was always on the go! Murie made friends easily, loved gardening, birds, flower arranging, sewing, cooking, dancing, and teaching kids' Sunday School! We enjoyed writing letters to each other when the miles separated us. I treasure those letters even more now.

Her funeral was a celebration of her life, the Gospel was presented, and it would have been what she wanted. Her and Gene's pastor did a wonderful job of saying just what we needed to hear. Our family is so thankful for the people of Pearl Valley Church in Wesson. After ahe and Gene married in 94, they took her in and loved on her. During the service, Mom shared some things. It was beautiful. She shared from her heart, gave a bit of history of Murie because most there didn't know her prior to 94, and made it through! Dad was able to play Amazing Grace on his trombone. Murie loved to hear both of them play. Mom was able to play the piano for a couple of congregational songs. It was beautiful and I bet Murie was smiling that day! The pastor gave time for folks to share words of encouragement/stories about "Ms. Geneva". What a special time that was! We heard things from folks that we would have never known about Murie! The things that stand out the most are the stories that individuals had of things Murie did when she was getting sicker. The pastor's wife made a visit, Murie got out the cups for coffee because that is what Murie did when folks came over. She was great at hosting. Gene's grandson-in-law shared about how he was there taking a nap on the couch...Murie went and put a blanket over him. He didn't have the privilege of knowing Murie before she got sick. He said that if she did that nice of a gesture then, he can only imagine what she must have been like before!

My brother-in-law did a wonderful job with the graveside service in Tennessee. It had been such a long week, really weeks maybe years, for us, and we were glad to be with extended family. I don't remember everything that Nathan said, but I know his words comforted me and I kept thinking how blessed we are to have him in our lives! And how Murie's sisters, nieces, nephews, extended family, and some old friends were hearing the Gospel. We had great time of fellowship over lunch and staying in TN an extra day. Because they weren't around Murie when she was sick nor at the funeral, Mom shared with them some of the stories folks shared with us.

God has been so good to my family. I am blessed beyond measure. My life has been forever touched and changed as a result of my grandmother...both my grandmothers. I feel I am a better person because of both of them!

There is so much more I could write, as my heart is overflowing with memories, love, and gratitude. I just pray that I can leave even half the legacy that Murie did!

Prayer for my Extended Family

2009-07-22T11:14:00.002-05:00

Mom called last night and told me she had news to share and didn't want to wait and tell me on my birthday, which is today. Uncle Orris, age 90, died yesterday after a terrible accident on the farm. (I'll get to that later.) He was married to one of my grandmother's sisters. Uncle Orris and Uncle Norris were twins who married my grandmother's twin sisters, Aunt Joyce and Aunt Loyce. These are the sisters of the grandmother who recently passed away.
These aunts and uncles are known as the Shaw Twins. After getting married, the twins lived in the same house and had 2 children each. The men raised Tennessee Walking Horses and were known around Nashville and surrounding areas. I have such fond memories of times at the farm. Uncle Norris passed away a few years ago and we thought Uncle Orris would not be around much longer. They were practically glued at the hip! Uncle Orris was at my grandmother's graveside service and I recall Mom, I think, telling me how much Uncle Orris loved my grandmother!

Uncle Orris was on the tractor, bush hogging behind the house when he hit the guide wire to the power pole. We think he died instantly due to being electrocuted. I pray he was electrocuted because the power pole fell on the tractor and fire erupted. His daughter, Susan, and Aunt Loyce and Joyce were in the kitchen. Susan saw the whole thing happening and could not do anything! Because of the fire, no one could get to him to even turn off the tractor. What a tragedy...and something that can't really be explained...

Uncle Orris really had no business being on a tractor at 90 years old, but he loved farming and knew there was work to be done. I knew he would die doing what he loved, but surely didn't expect such a tragedy. This goes to show that we never know how our life will end...and that we better be ready!

Please pray for the family. Both ladies have now lost their husbands, who they have spent over 60 years with! Aunt Joyce, his wife, is in the beginning stages of Alzheimer's, so who knows how this will affect her. Pray for children Jeff & his family, and Susan. Susan has had such difficulties in her life and I cannot imagine what she must be going through...after watching this tragedy take place and knowing you could do nothing. Pray for Randall and Barry and families, the sons of Aunt Loyce. Pray for the entire Shaw family and that through this tragedy, folks will look to God and take comfort in Him. Some of the family are Christians, but others are not.

Pray for my mom to know if she is to go to the funeral or wait until later to go and be with the family.

Thanks for your prayers!

Prayer for Convention 2009

2009-06-28T22:57:00.005-05:00

To think that this time last year, we were welcoming Convention guests in PEI...and I was pretty sure I was headed back to Cochrane! To think that it's Convention time again!

We've been working hard the past few months and especially weeks to get things ready for this year's meeting. It's being held in Edmonton, just 3 hours north of here, so that is nice. It should be a great time of fellowship together.

CNBC annual meetings are not like normal annual convention meetings. Because our convention is so small (240 churches across the country), it's like a big family reunion filled with worship, some business, and great fun and fellowship! There's leadership seminars, community outreach events, and new this year is a ministry fair. The convention will end with the Global Missions Celebration that I have had a role in planning. I'm excited about seeing it all come together!

Please pray for us this week as we travel and hold the meeting. Many pastors and lay leaders will be in attendance with their families. Many may come weary and ready to "call it quits"...pray they are refreshed, renewed, and ready to keep going! Pray that we as staff will stay healthy and rested for the busy week ahead. Pray that we will hear from the Lord and be able to connect with folks from across the country! Pray that all in attendance will respond to whatever it is that God is wanting us to do!

If you are interested in experiencing our convention meeting, the sessions will be broadcast live on the internet and on our site for future viewing. Sessions will take place Tuesday evening from 7-9, Wednesday morning from 9-noon, Wednesday night from 7-9, and Thursday night from 7-9. We're on Mountain Time. Just visit our website from the Canadian National Baptist Convention link to find out more!

Thanks for praying!

Snow in June

2009-06-08T22:59:00.003-05:00

Yep, this is what I woke up to Saturday morning! Crazy! I can now say that I've seen snow fall in June as it was a rain/snow mix on Friday and Saturday. I think July is the only month I've not seen snow and I DO NOT want to see it! Here's to life in Calgary...
These pictures were taken outside the home where I live. Debbie had recently planted the flowers. Many folks have done their planting and had to bring the flowers inside the past few nights or either cover them.
I hope spring arrives soon to stay!

"Jesse's Girls" Run/Walk for ALS, June 14

2009-06-07T23:44:00.004-05:00

I will be participating in the Run/Walk for ALS this Sunday in Calgary, in honor of my friend and pastor Jesse Morales. I'll be walking with friends from my church, The Pathway Church, as we seek to raise $30,000 for this cause and the "Jesse's Girls" team!

Jesse was diagnosed with ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease in May 2008. (You can read about his family's journey at www.jessemoralesjourney.blogspot.com or clicking on the "Jesse's ALS journey" from this page.) I was in shock when I heard the news. "Not Jesse, Lord? Not another person I know with this terrible disease?"

I guess I've known Jesse and his family since I moved to Canada in 2001. When I heard the news, I immediately thought of him and his wife, Kathy, and their 4 daughters (Angela, Christina, Stephanie, and Emily) and how this will change their lives forever. I also thought of the 3 individuals from Mississippi that the Lord called Home from this disease. For such a rare disease, not another one I know...

When I was in grade 12, Mrs. Donzie Winningham, our pastor's wife, battled the disease. She kept her smile to the end...just like Jesse is continuing to! Dr. Larry Kennedy, a former interim pastor, battled it after he was with us. I think he died shortly after Hurricane Katrina hit. He was a great man of God...just like Jesse! Bro. Freddie Womble, our former pastor, had to leave the mission field after 20+ years in Paraguay. God called him Home around Christmas, I think. He had such a sense of humor...just like Jesse!

It's often in these times, one asks "why?", yet God is teaching me that He uses so many things--the good and the bad--to show Himself and to bring others to His Son, Jesus. Jesse is an evangelist and doesn't miss out on an opportunity to share...even if he can't talk anymore! Caretakers and a cleaning lady have been saved! Nurses and doctors have heard about the one Jesse takes joy in! It's in these things that we can see the purpose in the difficult things of life.

Jesse remains faithful to come to church each Sunday, even if he's not really up to it. I am blessed to know he and his family.

Would you be able to support "Jesse's Girls" in this cause and help to find a cure and give assistance to patients and families? If so, you can donate online at www.als.ca/events/mysite.aspx?fid=2588. If you would like to make a pledge, let me know!

Please keep Jesse and the family in your prayers at this time.

On another note, June 14 would have been my Granny Cone's 98th birthday. She went to be with Jesus on January 25, 2008. I think I'll walk in Granny's honor, too. Though she didn't battle ALS, she wasn't able to walk for the last few years of her life due to the nerve endings "dieing" in her legs. How thankful I am that she is now walking with Jesus!!

Rosalyn's Soccer Game

2009-03-22T20:03:00.005-05:00

I was able to be at Rosalyn's last soccer game while I was home. It's so funny to watch preschoolers play soccer. She's quite the little player! Their team won and I was able to get a shot of a point she scored! It was a warm Mississippi "winter" day. The last 2 pictures are Katie's attempt at taking pictures. Not too bad for a 3 year old. She loves taking pictures!

Aunt Ellen's Castle

2009-03-22T19:55:00.003-05:00

My 3 year old niece, Katie, thinks I live in a castle in Canada! I bought this castle from Ikea a few years ago and used it with the kids at my former church. When I moved to PEI, I left it at my parents' place for the girls to play in. It's one of those play things that takes up a lot of room, so it's not kept out all the time...But when I am home, the girls get to play in it and have such fun. On most of my trips since Jan 07, I have put it together at my sister's place. I take it apart before I leave and it goes back to Pops and Nana's place. Because the girls only play in it when I am there, Katie has this idea that I live in a castle! It must have been my fall visit that caused her to think this because after I left, she was telling my sister about Aunt Ellen's castle. Isn't that just the cutest? I love the imaginations and thoughts of preschoolers! It was a lot of fun during this last trip to watch Knox play in it. You'll see the box in the picture that we used for a tunnel!

My Valentine's Flowers

2009-03-22T19:42:00.003-05:00

Here is the beautiful arrangement my family sent me!

Another Grandmother is now with Jesus

2009-02-28T17:53:00.005-06:00

Geneva Mae Estep Gosnell Guess is now walking, talking, smiling, and singing with Jesus! She was so ready to go Home and went this morning. "Murie" hasn't spoken, smiled much, or even walked much in at least 2 years, so knowing that she is now able to do that brings a smile to my face! It is bittersweet, though, when one loses a grandmother, even if she is with her Heavenly Father. You may recall the post I wrote in early '08 about Granny Cone and the heritage she left. Murie has left one as well. Though I was close to both my grandmothers, I feel this one will be filled with more emotions, as my mom is an only child so my sister and I were Murie's only grandchildren. We spent so much time together with her, especially after Grandaddy died in '86 and she moved to Mt. Olive to be near us. She remarried in '94 to a wonderful man, Gene. Please keep him in your prayers. He was Murie's caregiver for a time, until it just became too much for him and Murie went to the nursing home. She suffered from Alzheimer's. Though it was sad to lose Grandaddy so suddenly, our family has been so blessed with Gene. There is so much more I want to write, but I must finish packing. I'll be flying tomorrow. It will be a long week for us as Murie's funeral will be in Mississippi, while her burial is in Tennessee, where she and Grandaddy were from and he is buried. I covet your prayers on behalf of our family. Thanks for praying for my grandmother and our family these past couple of weeks and days, as she had gotten worse. It means so much to know folks are praying!

News from the Rockies (Part 2)

2009-02-17T23:12:00.002-06:00

(For whatever reason, getting the whole newsletter on here was causing me issues, so to read the beginning of the newsletter, read part 1 first...)

January was a travel month for me as I got to attend the national Woman’s Missionary Union meeting in Alabama and the North American Mission Board Missions Education Roundtable meeting at Southwestern Seminary. It was great to connect with others who have the same heart as me in educating folks about missions.
2008 was a year like none other with God calling some dear folks home to Heaven. Not counting my Granny Cone, another dear soul who God called home was “Mom” Karen Harris in Vancouver, who had a short battle with cancer. I’ve known the Harris family for over ten years now and Mom Karen had a way of making me feel so very special. It was her daughter Becky who traveled across the country with me. God knew that Becky needed that vacation because when she arrived back home, Mom Karen told her of her illness. She was gone in less than 2 months. Thankfully, I was able to go for the Celebration Service of her life. Please remember the Harris family in your prayers. My home church in Mississippi has experienced great loss just this past month. Zack Sanford was called home suddenly at the age of 48, leaving his wife, Sheila, a 14 year old son Sam, and twin 10 year olds, Robert and Katie, as well as his parents and extended family. His grandmother Katie was called home a month after his death. Zack and “Mamaw” Katie were wonderful people and both have left a legacy that will forever be in our hearts. Please keep the family in your prayers.

I am realizing more and more how short and fragile life is and that we don’t need to take anything for granted.

Thanks so much for your prayers in my life! It means so much to me to know that folks care and pray. Please continue to remember me as I seek God’s wisdom in all areas of my life, as I re-adjust to the Calgary area and a drier climate, and as I help to educate the CNBC churches about missions.

Here’s my new contact information:
109 Tusslewood Terrace NW
Calgary, AB, T3L 2W4
CANADA
Cell (403) 671-1046
ellen_cone@yahoo.com (same)

Canadian National Baptist Convention
100 Convention Way
Cochrane, AB, T4C 2G2
CANADA
(403) 932-5688
Within Canada: 1-888-442-2272
econe@cnbc.ca

May you experience God’s love in a special way this week and see Him at work around you!

Blessings in Christ,
Ellen

News from the Rockies (Part 1)

2009-02-17T22:57:00.005-06:00

February Newsletter

Greetings from the Rocky Mountains! Yes, it’s true…I am back in the heart of the Rockies! Since the last time I wrote, I believe it was August while I was in Mississippi, awaiting my immigration papers that allow me to work in Canada. Life has been a whirlwind for awhile, but I am settling in my new home nicely. I did not realize how much the Calgary area had become home until I left…now, God has me back here for this time of my life!

Long story short, I accepted a position with our Canadian National Baptist Convention (formerly Canadian Convention of Southern Baptists) as missions ministry leader and administrative assistant for the SEND team. The SEND team covers missions, partnerships and volunteers, and collegiate ministry. I got my start in missions while in college, so I feel like I have come full circle. Only God could have orchestrated this part of my life. Though I’m not in children’s ministry full-time, this is a wonderful job for me and I’m making it into my ministry. I get to work with some incredible men and women and get to serve our churches across Canada. The magnitude of the position hits me at times. I am humbled that God would choose me in helping to educate our people about missions, be the contact for our international missionaries, and watch people get on board with what God is doing.
While in Mississippi, I felt like my whole world had been turned upside down. It was such a strange time for me, yet I knew God was in control and I did my best to trust Him. He knew that I was not physically, mentally, and emotionally ready to learn the ropes of a new job. I think it took the immigration issues for God to get me to rest! The paperwork came through quicker than expected and at the end of September, I flew back to Calgary and began my job. I enjoyed my time with family and basically not doing too much. I ended up being able to take a beach trip with my sister and her family and was even able to be at my niece Rosalyn’s 5th birthday party!

I can’t believe my little man Knox will be a year old on the 21st! Rosalyn, Katie, and Knox are such joys and I miss them!

I am living back in Calgary, but am on the outskirts of the city, about 20 minutes from Cochrane, where our office is. I rent the basement suite in the home of a couple I work with and the commute is not that bad, unless it’s icy and snowy! Since the sun is now up when I drive to work, I get to see the Rockies each morning and throughout my day, as our offices have a perfect view! The convention office is on the same property as the seminary, so I feel like I’m home again! It’s great to be back with old friends and to be making new ones.
I have found a new church home, The Pathway Church, and have already been helping out with the children’s Sunday School. I’m looking forward to even more opportunities to serve there. I wasn’t sure what type of church I was looking for, as I have experienced different types while being in Canada. This church reminds me of my former church here, so it’s a good feeling. Some of you may be wondering about Mountain View. It has recently merged with another church. Thanks to many of you who gave of your time, resources, and prayers to MVCF over the years!
I do miss Prince Edward Island and my friends there. I did not realize what wonderful friends I really had until I started missing them! I’m so blessed that God allowed me to have the opportunity to serve in Atlantic Canada. It helped prepare me for the denominational work that I am now in and I have more of a taste of our work across the country.
I miss the smell of the ocean and walks along the Charlottetown boardwalk, but I now have the Rocky Mountains, again!

A Wonderful Valentine's Surprise!

2009-02-15T23:00:00.002-06:00

Last week was an insane week at work as we prepared the mailouts of the North American/Annie Armstrong Easter Offering material. (More about that at a later date.) On Friday, we had a Christian school group to come help us with stuffing envelopes for our 250ish churches. In the midst of the craziness in the basement, someone came down and told me I was needed upstairs. I headed upstairs and there on my desk was a beautiful little arrangement of small roses, carnations, and greenery! I wondered, who in the world sent this? I opened the card and it read, "Happy Valentine's Day, We love you! Daddy, Mama, Christy, Nate, Rosalyn, Katie, and Knox"!!! I have a precious family who thought of me in such a special way! As soon as I can upload pictures to my computer, I will let you see my wonderful surprise! My camera/computer are not coorperating...

I pray you had a wonderful Valentine's Day in however you spent your day!

Smelling the roses...

Update on my family

2009-02-15T21:49:00.002-06:00

Thanks for praying and please continue to!

My grandmother has gone back to the nursing home and went right to sleep when they got her settled! The pneumonia has cleared, so now we'll wait and see how she does with eating normally. Mom will go the nursing home tomorrow to sign some papers about no more hospitalization, etc. Mom wonders if she got her answer from Murie last night as she had to "fight" with her to not pull the feeding tube out. The hosptial had her hand restrained.

My grandmother may realize more than we think she does!

Dad is feeling better, as he went to get a powerful shot the other day! Knox is slowly improving and my sister, Christy, thought she was getting the flu, but after some sleep, she is some better, but still fighting a cold. I had a relaxful Saturday and Sunday and am looking forward to a day off tomorrow as it's Family Day in Alberta!

Prayer for my family

2009-02-14T23:40:00.002-06:00

Just writing to ask you to pray for my family. My grandmother Geneva (mom's mother) has been in the hospital since last Monday with aspiration pneumonia. This is caused by food going into her lungs. She is not able to swallow correctly. "Murie", as we call her, has Alzheimer's and has been in the nursing home over a year. The hospital has not given her any food via mouth since she was admitted and my mother fears that she will lose that function. The doctor wants to make sure the pneumonia is cleared. Murie currently has a feeding tube through her nose and we were told that it would only be temporary. Mom is now wondering if the doctor is going to tell them differently.
My grandfather passed away in '86 and Murie remarried in '94 to a wonderful man Gene who has been a God-send in her illness. He and my mom have been taking turns at the hospital. Pray that my mom and Gene will have wisdom in making the right decisions. My grandmother has really not spoken in over 2 years and she isn't very mobile.

Also, my dad has a terrible cold, as well as my almost one-year-old nephew Knox, and my sister! I, too, am developing a cold! Pray that all will be healed and no one else will get sick.

We are trying to trust God at this time and know that He knows best. I really don't know how to pray, but Mom says to pray that He will wrap His arms around us at this time. It's difficult for me to be so far from family at times like this, but I'm trusting God that He has a reason!

Thanks for your love, care, and prayers!

A Collage of our Trek Across Canada

2009-01-04T20:49:00.003-06:00

I'm experimenting with Picaso and trying to show a lot of pics at once. This is a start for me and will give you a glimpse into our (Becky and me) trip across Canada in August. It was probably the experience of a lifetime for both of us and I will blog about it soon enough. If you click on the picture, you can see it better. Oh, you might notice a couple of pics of a turkey. Those are not from our trip, but from my August trip to a NAMB writer's conference in Georgia and I thought I had taken them out of the collage. Oh, well! Anyway, the NAMB building is surrounded by woods and this turkey kept making a visit.

A Deep Freeze

2008-12-14T18:31:00.003-06:00

Well, winter has arrived in Calgary! This is the second Sunday in a row with snow, snow, snow. The snow started last Sunday during church. It wasn't forecasted, so we were taken by surprise. I sat in a Sunday School class and watched the snow falling outside. The fresh fallen snow is beautiful and the untouched snow always reminds me of God's beauty and purity! Thankfully, it wasn't terribly cold last weekend. Boy, has that changed! Another winter storm hit Friday and I actually left work early. I knew I better get home when I could, as my car had been giving me problems. I will have to get winter tires! It's these times when I have to ask God to remind me of the calling He has placed on my life to be here...

The snow came and came and came, as well as falling temps. Calgary hasn't seen this much snow in awhile, especially in December. It will definitely be a White Christmas here! The temps have been sitting at -25C/-15F or lower and that's not counting a much lower windchill!! Brrrrr....
Needless to say that I have been hibernating all weekend, though I did venture out for church with the couple I am staying with. I am hoping my car cranks in the morning! It is to be bitterly cold for a few more days.

Poated above are a few photos of the beautiful snow covered trees outside the office. The trees were just beautiful one morning! The sun wasn't fully up yet, so it made for an even prettier sight.

Speaking of snow, how crazy that parts of the Southern US had snow last week! I couldn't believe it when my folks called and told me. Mom headed for work, but had to turn around. That's two snowfalls in less than a year! Dad said, "I think we must be in Canada."

FYI: You know it's extremely cold when you walk outside and your nose hairs freeze!

Prayer for Friends

2008-10-23T23:02:00.002-05:00

We never know what life will throw us.
I found out last week that a dear friend in PEI is in the hospital with some psychiatric issues. Please pray for her healing! Barbie is one of my closest friends and we've traveled a journey together since June 07. We have a special bond and it was very difficult on both of us when I left. I know God is in control and He will heal her!

Just this past weekend, a precious woman in my life passed away from a short, but aggressive form of cancer. Karen Harris, in Vancouver, was called Home and we'll celebrate her life this Saturday. It was her daughter, Becky, who traveled with me across North America. This family is so very precious to me and took me in as one of theirs 10 years ago. I will write more about Mom Karen at a later date...It is all surreal for me. Please pray for the family and friends at this time. All were trying to adjust to the news of the cancer and death came so soon. She was diagnosed when Becky and I were on the road. Becky found out the day she got home and Mom Karen called me the next day. She had been undergoing chemo and radiation for just 2 weeks. Death is such an ugly thing, but praise God that we have victory in Jesus!

If there's one thing that God is teaching me it is that LIFE IS SHORT AND FRAGILE! We can't take anything for granted. I could not imagine going through this time without the Lord. How do folks cope without Him? If you are reading this and you've not made Jesus the Lord of your life and accepted His forgiveness for your sins, so you can spend eternity with Him in Heaven, I pray you will! Life won't be perfect, but God will be with you each step of the way!

I'll be in Vancouver from Friday-Monday. Pray that it will be a sweet time with the family and friends and that I'll grieve as I need to.

Back in Alberta

2008-10-23T22:02:00.002-05:00

Thanks to all of you who prayed for me during my immigration process and my time at home in Mississippi. I was at a point in my life that I had not been in before--totally not knowing what was going to happen. Now, I know that God is control, but when I thought I had it all figured out, I felt like my whole world was turned upside down--to a degree. I had no idea how long the process would take, but praise the Lord that the document I needed came in just over 2 1/2 weeks. God always goes before us and He knew that I needed that break. I had been running full steam since June and really was not ready to learn the ropes of a new job. Once something is behind you, you see what God was doing. I had a great time with my family and even ended up getting to take a beach trip with my sister and her crew. We had a blast and it was so relaxing.
I arrived in Calgary on September 26 and had no problems getting my work permit for two years. God is good! I was in training for just over 2 weeks and have been on the job 'by myself' for a week now. It is a huge transition for me, but I know that in due time that I will get used to things and make this ministry my own. I am working with a wonderful group of people and look forward to developing even more friendships. For whatever reason that God doesn't allow me to be closer to family in the States, He is allowing me to be back in the place that had become home to me after 5 1/2 years. I am thankful that this is not a totally new place for me and I know folks already. I was wanting to live in Cochrane, where the Convention office is, but I'm in Calgary, about 20 minutes from work. I've got a nice little basement suite with a kitchenette in the home of a couple who works at the Convention. It is a blessing and very reasonable rent.

The most challenging things for me are a more "structured" life and handling the finance part of my job. When I am frustrated with numbers, etc, I have to tell myself that we need money to advance the Kingdom, so keeping track of it is very important! I love the missions side of things--reading the stories from the field, getting things together for our International Mission Offering prayer guide. In conjunction with the material that the International Mission Board distribute, we do a Canadian guide/poster as well. We will focus on those Canadians on the field, whether they are directly with our Convention or have connections with Canada in some way. I look forward to seeing it all come together. I'm glad that there is another person who can design the prayer guide because that is not my area! I just provide the information and give my ideas! This will be my first big project, so you can pray for that. We'll get those ready for mailing out the first week of November.

It is wonderful to be in the Rocky Mountains again! Last week while driving to work, I had the moon in front of me, the mountains beside me, and the gorgeous sunrise colored sky behind me!! I spent most of last weekend in the mountains and it was just breathtaking. Oh, I also have the mountains in the distance at work! Who could not look at it all and say there's not a God?!

When you want to come visit, just let me know. I love taking folks to the mountains!

The Latest with Me

2008-08-31T18:50:00.003-05:00

There is much to tell you about what is going on in my life.

I think that most of you know that I have left Prince Edward Island and Community Baptist on August 14. A couple months ago, I was approached about a position at our Canadian National Baptist Convention (formerly the Canadian Convention of Southern Baptists) to replace the gal serving as the missions ministry leader/administrative assistant to the SEND team. I wondered what in the world God was doing, but after much prayer and more, I felt God leading me to accept the position and that my time at Community Baptist was coming to a close after 18 months. It was difficult to leave my wonderful friends there, but I knew I was suppose to move back to Cochrane, Alberta. My dear friend, Becky from Vancouver, flew out to PEI and we drove across North America in 10 days! It was a crazy adventure and one I will write more about on here. Thank you to those of you who have been praying me through the decision process and during our travels. I/we could feel your prayers!

In order for me to work at the Convention and get paid, I have to have a work visa. Long story short, I am in Mississippi until the visa issue gets sorted out...
When Becky and I stopped at the border to re-enter Canada, it was by the grace of God that I was let in. I was missing one piece of paper proving that the Convention has tried to hire a Canadian, could not find one, so therefore offered me the job. That paperwork has now been done and received into the immigration office. It's just a waiting game and could take weeks or months! Thankfully, my friend had a flight back to Vancouver last Sunday and I had already scheduled to be at a conference in Atlanta for Tuesday. It was these two things that 'saved' us. Needless to say, my parents came and got me in Atlanta! (They had already planned to come and visit with me anyway.)

I can say that I am definitely at a point in my life that I have never been in before. I know that God is in control and we never know what will come our way. I am trusting in His perfect timing. Satan tries to throw doubts my way, but I know that God has called me to this position---educating our Canadian churches about missions, connecting with our international missionaries, coordinating aspects of the missions offerings, and much more! Under the SEND team falls student ministry, volunteers, and international missionaries, and every aspect of missions. Children are my passion, with missions a close second!

I feel this visa issue is probably God's way of getting me to rest. I have been going full steam since at least mid-June and am emotionally and mentally drained and get exhausted at times! Also, I didn't think I'd be home til Christmas, so this is a nice 'surprise' visit with my family and friends in the South!

With the Convention paid position, means that I am no longer a Mission Service Corps missionary with the North American Mission Board. I thank each and every one of you who have supported me through the past 4 years in that area. You have been such a blessing!

As I write, the Gulf Coast and surrounding areas are preparing for Hurricane Gustav. We saw what Katrina did and are taking no chances! I was home on summer vacation when Katrina hit...God was with us through that time and I know He will watch over us during this storm. My family is 2-3 hours from the Gulf Coast of MS and New Orleans, but the Katrina damage was extensive even here. As we were driving today, I noticed trees that were ripped in half by that storm 3 years ago and continue to be reminded of how that storm impacted so many lives.

Here's how I ask you to pray:
for my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health
for the immigration process
for a restful time while I am home
if needed, that God will provide just the job I need while I am home
for the Canadian National Baptist Convention and its churches
that Hurricane Gustav will weaken and anxieties will be settled

You are such a blessing and I pray that you are experiencing God's love in a special way!

Our Trek Across North America

2008-08-21T07:59:00.002-05:00

Well, my dear friend Becky, and I are writing from Kalamooza, Michigan. Yes, there is really a place called 'Kalamooza'! For those of you who don't know, I have accepted a position with our Canadian National Baptist Convention (formerly the Canadian Convention of Southern Baptists) as the missions ministry leader and administrative assistant to the SEND team. We left Charlottetown a week ago and could write a book on our adventures so far. We feel your prayers and ask you to continue to do that! It has been incredible to see more of the great nation of Canada, including old Quebec City, Parliament Hill in Ottawa, city of Toronto, and Niagara Falls. Becky hasn't seen much of the US, so this is a treat for her. We will be driving through some parts that I haven't seen. We have many miles to still go, but we feel we can make good time the next two days. Becky has a flight back to Vancouver on Sunday morning, so pray all goes well the next 3 days and especially with getting back into Canada and me needing to get my work visa! No problems getting into the US. We crossed over Lake Huron and how pretty it was!

With the busyness of the move, I still haven't gotten a newsletter out to really fill all in on the changes in my life. This will have to be sufficient for now...

Until we write again....

Convention has come and gone...

2008-07-07T21:23:00.007-05:00

The annual Canadian Convention of Southern Baptists' Annual Convention was held in Charlottetown and hosted by my church last week...and we have survived! Word is that it was the best Convention meeting ever and we are encouraged by that. I was the children's ministry coordinator and I don't think I've ever had such a physically and mentally draining week! Man, oh man....but God gave strength and met needs in only the ways He does in our times of need. He brought just the workers that were needed to serve some of the best children in the world! The World Changers and CCSB parents plus others were great. It was wonderful to see old friends and make new ones. What a joy to be part of the CCSB family...which is now known as the Canadian National Baptist Convention! It will be wierd saying 'CNBC' instead of 'CCSB'...
Thanks to those of you who prayed for this special time in the life of our Convention! Your prayers were felt.
To view Convention sessions, go to www.ccsb.ca.

Some ladies of our church were God-sends in getting snacks ready for the children. We bought for 80 children, including 400 juice boxes as there were 5 sessions of snack times! Not quite that many children were there, so we have tons of snacks leftover! What a sight to see the grocery cart!

Our church hosted a Lobster Supper for over 300 people (in 3 different settings)! It went really well. Here folks are getting ready to start the Lobster Supper of rolls, mussels, lobster (or ham or hot dogs), salads, and cheesecake. What a blessing the World Changers and CCSB staff and Community folks were!

This family is farely new to our church. April and Oliver are precious kids!

Kids enjoy playing games during Convention sessions. Majority of the Convention was held on the University of Prince Edward Island campus.

Mission Service Corps missionary and dear friend, Mary Bryant, comes to speak to the children about the ministry that she and her husband (and dog) do across Canada

Ellen and Ellen ~ I met young Ellen while in Calgary and what a joy to see her again! We are kindred spirits! Her dad is a pastor at one of our churches and her grandparents were my seminary professors. I look I little tired from the week, eh?!

The flowers the Convention family gave me. What a nice surprise!

Two Neat "Sightings"

2008-06-12T12:50:00.004-05:00

My dear friend, Shelly Webb, and her mother are on a cruise right now. Yesterday, they were docked in Charlottetown! She now lives in Boston, doing campus ministry at MIT and serving as an MSC missionary like me. They left from Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine, and then were in Nova Scotia for a day before traveling here. Shelly and I went for breakfast and I brought her by the church and my little apartment. She and her mom went on the Anne of Green Gables tour in the afternoon, before their ship left last night. They will depart in Montreal, Quebec, and drive back to Boston, but not before more sight-seeing! How neat that God allowed me to go to Boston last fall for a missions conference (see older post) and get to visit with Shelly and now she got to come here and experience just a bit of my world! I LOVE YOU, SHELLY!
Oh, the neat sighting was seeing the cruise ship docked! It's a neat sight to see along the harbor and as you drive over the bridge to the town of Stratford and back.

I had an appointment in Stratford yesterday afternoon. Until driving there, I didn't realize that Tour de PEI (women's cycling competition) would be there later in the day. Tour de PEI had started earlier in the week by the cyclists crossing the 12 mile Confederation Bridge that links New Brunswick and PEI. The race went through the countryside of PEI, Stratford, and ending today in downtown Charlottetown. Right up from where I was parked, the folks were setting up for the end of the race, so I got to see the "Finish Line", awards podium, fencing, and signs (300m, 200m, 100m, etc) that are put up. It was neat to see it all coming together. One of the dear ladies, Marjorie, from our church lives right where it was going to take place. After my appointment, I walked up to her place and had a lovely lunch and visit. If I had not had other things going on yesterday and last night, I would have stayed and watched the race with her. I'm sure it would have been a neat experience!

What a joy!

2008-04-02T23:26:00.008-05:00

What a joy to finally meet and hold my little nephew! He is just precious! When I first saw him, I knew who his daddy was as he sure favors Nathan! Knox will be 6 weeks old tomorrow and is a bundle of joy. He mainly sleeps and eats and poops, but is very alert when he is awake. His little blue eyes are sure looking at something. I know, it's his Aunt Ellen! He has the sweetest little cries and loves to be held! I am so thankful to have this time with him, as I missed out on this early stage of the girls' lives. I met both of them when each were around 3 months old.

Speaking of the girls, I am having the best time with Rosalyn and Katie! Rosalyn loves dress-up, books, princesses, coloring, and taking pictures with my digital. Katie loves books and to be held. She is talking so much more than when I saw her 8 weeks ago. It is so fun to just watch their little personalities. Watching them interact makes me wonder how my sister and I were at that age. They are 2 years apart, while there's 3 between my younger sister and me.
Rosalyn is definitely the bigger sister because she likes to tell Katie what to do and will get a bit frustated as Katie doesn't understand how to do things as she does. Katie is a very sensitive child, so her feelings get hurt easily. She is full of smiles, though! Both girls already have a sense of humor and seem to be just fine hanging out. They aren't always playing with their toys and such. Both the girls seem to be doing quite well with their baby brother.

What a day!

2008-04-01T22:46:00.003-05:00

Well, you never know what will happen when you travel and especially when flying. I left Charlottetown on Monday at 12PM Atlantic/10AM Central and flew to Halifax, Nova Scotia, where I had a 3 hour layover. I ended up being in Halifax for 7 hours because of ground delays. There was bad weather in Chicago, so no planes could get there. I was getting pretty stressed that I would not make it to Memphis, Tennessee, and did not want to get stuck in an airport and especially Chicago. We finally left for Chicago and were told that they had delays there. I get to Chicago and my Memphis flight was delayed! Whew...or so I thought! We finally get on the Memphis bound plane and back out. We were soon told that due to bad weather & heavy Fed-Ex traffic in Memphis, we were once again on a ground delay. By this time, it's 11PM Central and I am sooooo tired and we're told that it will be another hour until an update. I'm glad no one was sitting beside me, so I could stretch out a bit and try to rest. We finally leave for Memphis after midnight Central. I am feeling pretty bad for my dad and aunt because they are up so late, waiting on me to get in. My mom and sister are still up as well, texting or calling me, to see what in the world is going on. I know things are beyond my control, though, and I'm just so glad to finally be headed to Memphis. As always when I fly, I wonder if my luggage will make it. Well, for the third time in 3 months, my luggage didn't arrive with me. Better it not arriving, than me! It did arrive this morning, so I am finally safe and sound in Mississippi with my belongings.
Flying is old hat for me, but it's still nerve-wracking. God was with me in special ways on Monday. My luggage was a bit overweight and the guy didn't even charge me! PTL! It was nothing to get through customs and I was not stuck in an airport overnight and was able to get to my destination, even if it was the middle of the night! Oh, and when I arrived in Chicago, my departure gate was right across from my arrival gate!

Please pray for my dad and aunt. I met both of them with injuries at the airport. My aunt Sarah broke her foot a few weeks ago while playing basketball with her 9 yr old grandson. My dad, Charles, has a very sore leg from going through the floor of my aunt's attic in her new house! He didn't know the floor wasn't really finished, so while going through some of Granny's things, he steps in one spot, and through the floor his leg goes. PTL that it wasn't worse! Pray for speedy healing and ease of pain in the meantime. There are some members of our family who are accident prone!

Welcoming a New Life

2008-02-24T20:49:00.008-06:00

A new man has entered my life...

...my first nephew, that is!

Daniel Knox Shurden
February 21, 2008
6:02PM
6lbs 8oz
19 inches long

Knox arrived safe and sound and how precious he is! I cannot wait to meet him, hold him, and spoil him like crazy! I don't know if we'll know what to do with a boy, but I'm sure we'll learn fast. Though Knox arrived a few weeks early, all are doing well.

Within a month, we have celebrated one life who has left us and welcomed a new one!

God continues to bestow His blessings on us each and every day!

WELCOME TO THE WORLD, LITTLE GUY! I LOVE YOU ALREADY!

Celebrating One's Life

2008-02-24T19:46:00.004-06:00

My Granny, Elizabeth Cone, 96 years old, went to be with Jesus on January 25, 2008. She was a precious person in my life and I am blessed to have had such a special relationship with her. We liked much of the same things and my mom says I get my independent spirit from her! Granny introduced me to stamp-collecting as a young girl. She traveled the world for many years and I always enjoyed hearing her stories and seeing pictures. Until she could no longer drive, each time we visited her in Memphis, TN, she would have our days planned and we were always venturing out somewhere. I loved our times together. She was also a woman of faith and has left a legacy. She loved her Lord and her church (Bellevue Baptist) and her Sunday School class. Since I moved to Canada, she had been unable to care for herself. She and I had quite a few talks about why God still had her on this earth. I once told her that she could be a prayer warrior...she said, "yeah, you're right." I could write a book on the memories I have of her and our times together.

We got to see Granny at Christmastime. Dad, my sister's family, and I had planned to go visit Dad's side of the family the Thursday-Saturday after Christmas. That morning, we got a call from Aunt Sarah that hospice was with Granny every other hour because her pulse had been low (she was in a nursing home). For the next 4 hours, I kept praying that God wouldn't take her just yet since we were so close to visiting her. When Dad, Christy, and I arrived to her room, she was sleeping and was so much thinner than when I had seen her in February 07. She woke up and saw us there. She was smiling, though was so weak that she couldn't move her arms from under the covers. One of the sweetest memories I'll always have is that she said, "I'm jumping for joy inside!" I knew she wanted to hug us so much...

Nathan and the girls came with us the next day and Granny looked much better and we were able to hold her hands & talk with her more. Granny enjoyed seeing her great-grandaughters and Christy was able to tell her that she was expecting a boy and his name would be Knox~a maiden name on Granny's side! We don't know if Granny remembered, as she had dementia, but it was special to tell her, especially now that she is gone.

God allowed me to get home for Granny's funeral. Her service was a celebration of her life and her Savior and how we can have a home in Heaven...just what she would have wanted! Dad was able to play "How Great Thou Art" on his trombone, while Mom accompanied him on piano. This was something Granny wanted & it was special that Dad was able to do this. A few years ago, Granny had planned everything, even what she would wear and her casket. This made it so much easier on Dad, Aunt Sarah, and Uncle John. Though despite the reason, it was wonderful to be with my 3 cousins again. They and their familes are so special and we usually only see each other once a year. Granny had 5 grandchildren (with 4 of them married) and 7 great-grandchildren, with one on the way.

Granny was one who kept almost everything! Between she and her mother, there is much history written down & photos of our family. We spent many hours going through things and have many treasures of our own now. I have one of the last Bibles she used, along with a few other odds and ends.

Though death is never easy, what comfort I can take in knowing that she is all healed and dancing with Jesus...and that we will meet again one day!

(My scanner is not working right, so no pics available for posting at this time.)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2008-01-16T22:06:00.000-06:00

I can't believe that we're halfway into January 08! Where does the time go?

I had a great time in MS, TN, and NC with family and friends! I will post pics soon!
God orchestrated the timing of my visit and many things that occurred. He is so good in that way, isn't He? I will write more on what He has been doing when I am less tired!

I pray you have a blessed 08 and you see God at work around you. Remember, it's all about Jesus!!

"Be still and know that I am God." ~Psalm 46:10

Since my last posting...

2007-12-17T21:30:00.000-06:00

How in the world I can go two months without posting, I do not know. My pregnant sis, Christy, and mother of 2 manages to get hers done and my friend and fairly new mom, Kara, who works full time, is very faithful with hers! Good grief...what is my excuse?! Well, its not like I sit around and do nothing. I will say that I was just sitting around the past few weeks off and on. I had a terrible cold for almost 3 weeks and a cut finger from a tin can. I have decided that I don't make a good sick person. I am better now, PTL!

Here's a few things that have been going on in my part of the world:

Thanksgiving Activity: Thanksgiving is celebrated here the first week of October. Around that time, I had a kids' activity and we had a great time playing on our new playground set and having a picnic, even if it was a bit chilly. The kids enjoyed their little craft/snack. Don't you love the turkeys!

Fall Party~I have no idea what I was, but I had fun in it. We had a fun time playing games, doing crafts, & icing cupcakes and eating them!

Parents' Night Out~in October, I began a Parents' Night Out event where parents drop off their kids and have a night out, while we keep their kids and have a fun time of stories, games, crafts, and snacks. This is for kids in our church, as well as more of an outreach for the families we met this summer. We've held 3 so far and about 10 or so kids come. The parents really appreciate it and we're glad to be able to offer something like this each month.

Youth Events~John and I have a great time with the youth every other Friday night. We have about 10 or so that usually come out for whatever we have planned. Only about half of those come to Sunday morning church. The youth love playing the Sardines hide and seek game--someone hides in the dark and when you find him or her, you hide and pack in like sardines. I don't care much for it, but it's fun watching them walk around in the dark! We have games nights, build your own pizza, movies nights, and recently we had a Christmas party. A few months ago, I had the youth gals for a sleepover and we had a good time. I'm enjoying getting to know these youth. This week, I went to 3 of the gals' Christmas band concert. I really enjoyed seeing this part of their life and remembering my band days! Pray for these youth as John and I seek to reach out to them more and hope to plan a retreat weekend of sorts in the spring.

Young Adult Friday Night group: We've been doing a study on Discovering Life Together every other Friday night. Our group is growing and we are getting to know each other more. We have been reaching out to others in need and it's great to see the group so willing to do this.

Christmas Tea~these are very popular on the Island and I enjoyed being a part of Community's. Tea and coffee is served with plates of sandwiches and sweets (squares), as well as a bake sale. Yummy! I'm not a big hot tea drinker, but what's going to a Tea without drinking tea! Unfortunately, we had a snow storm the night before and the weather was terrible that day. The crowd was very slim, so we held it over til Sunday afternoon. It gave more of our folks a chance to come, seeing that most didn't venture out.

Snow, snow, snow! The pictures will speak for themselves. The past few weeks have brought snow storms and Islanders say this is not normal for this time of year. It's not even winter. I must have brought it with me from Calgary, as this is really nothing for me! I am having to get used to driving a car in the snow and ice, as I had learned how my Blazer handled. I'm very thankful I have the car. It holds up well. My heater wasn't working recently and one of the gentleman in the church was able to give the car a flush for me and all is better! So thankful for men like him and that the heat is now working! I spent almost 45 minutes shoveling snow off and around my car after that first big storm!
I will post a video of some of the snow, so stay tuned!

A Best Friend's Wedding

2007-10-23T15:53:00.000-05:00

I was able to go back to Alberta for a dear friend's wedding in September. Hyun Jeong Bok, aka Little Bok, and I were at seminary together. She was in the college program and I was in the Master of Religious Ed program, while both of us were custodians. There were about a half dozen of us single gals who hung out a lot. Little Bok and I have kept in touch and I consider her one of my best friends. With our special friendship, I couldn't let her wedding go by without being there myself. I'm so glad I was able to be there for her special day. We had been praying that this day would come!

Little Bok & Justin

me, Little Bok, Sung, and Deen Deen ~ Little Bok, Deen Deen, & me were students & Sung's husband was as well

So fun to visit with sem buds!

While in Edmonton for the wedding, I stayed with dear seminary friends, Nathan & Adele, aka Deen Deen, Vedoya and their precious kids, Charis and Malachi. The kids gave up their room for me and Deen Deen made me feel so at home. Their kids are just a few months older than my nieces. Their son, Kai, is my godson, so it was very special to be able to have this time with all of them. The kids and I had tons of fun together! I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends and that we've been able to keep in touch.

I was able to go to the Vedoya's church where Nate is the English pastor at Agape Chinese Baptist. Deen teaches the kids and she interviewed me, so I got to the tell the kids what I do in PEI. What a blessing to make new young friends and have a sweet gal named, Erica, standing beside me, say a precious prayer for me! I, in return, was able to pray for their church. Erica and Diane, tallest gal, made the flowers in the center for me! Sheer sweetness!

The kids & I have a party for the dolls!

I kept the kids while mom and dad went out for a bit. Charis read to me! It was precious as she told me the story from the coloring book.

Kai is almost going to the potty! We thought he had gone poo and we were excited...turns out, nothing there! Too cute!

I had a couple of days in Calgary and stayed with the Eaglesons, a family from my former church. They are precious and always make me feel at home and a part of their family. I was able to visit with some friends and wish I had time to visit with everyone! I really enjoyed my day in Cochrane, at the seminary & convention office, and seeing friends. I don't know a lot of folks at the sem anymore, but what fond memories. One morning, the mountains had a fresh coat of snow! Though I didn't get to take a trip to Banff, I'm glad I got to see the mountains from afar. How beautiful!

the Eagleson/Taylor gals ~ Thanks for fun times, gals!

I had lunch with friends and new parents, Garth & Cara, & little Hezekiah. We met at sem and were at the same church for a time.

Special friends, Fatima, and her boys, Joel and Nour. I have watched these boys practically grow up. Fatima and me are special sisters in the Lord!

Thank you, Lord, for times of refreshing, wonderful friends, & getting back to a place that had become home for me!!

My Boston Trip

2007-10-23T15:20:00.000-05:00

Thanks for giving to the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering & the North American Mission Board! What a blessing to get to go to Boston in August for a missionary conference that was sponsored by the NAMB. I loved finally getting to see this city and to visit with my junior college associate campus minister, Shelly Webb. It was so refreshing to just get away after a very busy summer and to be among other missionaries and NAMB personnnel, to make new friends, and to have fun! We enjoyed a night out downtown. I hope to get to go back sometime and really take in the sights! The Northeast Connection was a first for the mission board. They hope to hold conferences like this in each region of the continent.

Recognize the infamous Citgo sign? Unfortunately, my camera was messing up when we drove right up to Fenway Park!! Bummer...

Oh, how I miss this place! What a treat to get to eat here and then take in a Rascal Flatts concert~two of my fav things!!!

I had a wonderful time with these ladies from the NAMB. They helped make the weekend so refreshing! Thanks, my new friends!!
Shelly and me met at Jones County Junior College when she served as the associate Baptist Student Union director. We have managed to keep in touch and how cool that she now serves at MIT in Boston and is Mission Service Corps as well! We were at the conference together and enjoyed dinner and the concert, since I got to stay an extra night. Thanks for a wonderful time, Shelly!!!

Happy Birthday, Rosalyn and Katie!!

2007-10-04T20:53:00.000-05:00

To think that Rosalyn Marie is now 4 (September 3) and Katherine Noel is now 2 (today)! Wow! The girls are growing so fast. They are such a blessing to our family and bring such joy. I can't wait to see them at Christmas.

To my precious girls, though I live very far from you, I hope you know how very much I love you! You bring such smiles to my face every time I look at your pictures and get to talk to you on the phone. You are a gift from God and I pray you know how special you are to Him and me!

Ro, it is so much fun to talk to you on the phone and I can't wait to see your new room, play together, and hear about all you are learning in preschool!

Katie, you are learning all sorts of new things and saying new words now! I can't wait for us to play and do fun things together!

I know both of you will make a great big sister to the new baby sister or brother that will come in March!!!

I love you very much and I'll see you soon! ~Aunt Ellen

Summer Fun

2007-10-01T20:29:00.000-05:00

My first summer in PEI wasn't all ministry related! Here are a few of the fun times I had with friends.

My precious new friend, Barbie, and me on the ferry ride to Nova Scotia. We went over for a weekend women's retreat in June that was sponsored by our convention.
What a special treat for BC 'parents', Mom Karen and Papa Marv Harris, to make a visit! It was somewhat unexpected and though we didn't have much time together, I sure did enjoy lunch with them and the birthday gifts. They and their family are a special part of my life since my 98 summer in Vancouver.
I had 2 birthday celebrations this year. One at John and Erin's place for dinner, cake, and games with church friends and then a week later with some girlfriends from church, as we went for dinner and the restaurant gave me a cake, and then we enjoyed going to see the musical, Anne and Gilbert!
What would the summer had been without a visit to the Anne of Green Gables house with Barbie, and our summer missionaries, Freda & Kendall. We enjoyed many outings together and they are my special friends.

Kendall, Freda, Seth, and I had crazy times together. If you didn't meet K & F earlier, read about them below. Seth is a seminary student who was in the Summerside/Slemon Park area doing his Nehemiah church planting internship. I think at every park we were at this summer, we went back to our childhood and played! I miss these guys!!!

I tried mussels for the first time and actually liked them, though I can't eat to many or my tummy hurts!

Now, this was not one of my most favorite parts of the summer, but quite an experience...holding a jellyfish! Of course, it has no tentacles, but it sure did leave my hands all slimy!

Happy 35th, Mom and Dad!!!!

2007-08-20T11:41:00.001-05:00

I couldn't let today go by without posting about my wonderful parents. They celebrate 35 years of marriage today and that encourages me so much!!! I am so blessed to have such Godly, precious parents who have given me all I have ever needed. As I get older and since I have moved away, I realize how blessed I am to have Mom and Dad in my life and that they raised me as they did. I know it is not easy for their oldest to be living so far from them, but they trust that I know what I am doing and that this is where I need to be right now.
They have made sacrifices for me and have taught me so much about life. They drove up with me when I first moved to Canada, flew up for my seminary graduation, drove up the next year and we had a wonderful vacation together, and they recently drove up to my new home and brought the rest of my belongings! It's those things that mean so much~for them to want to see where I live, meet people who are a part of my life now, and to take their vacation time & spend money for me! I pray God's blessings on them as they have blessed me!!!
Mom and Dad, I don't have words to say what you truly mean to me! I think you know as we often leave things unsaid, but we know...
I pray that I can leave a legacy as only you are living out for Christy and me!! Thank you for being such an example for me and others!!!
I LOVE YOU BOTH SO MUCH!!!

My First Summer at Community

2007-08-17T19:59:00.000-05:00

Well, summer ministry has pretty much wrapped up at Community. We are now in the fall planning mode. To think you plan and plan, events come, and then they are gone! All in all, my first summer of ministry has been good. It has been a very tiring time for me with all the mission teams we had and 3 weeks of camps (sports camp, backyard Bible clubs, and vacation Bible school), but it was all worth it. I have made wonderful new friends and we saw some children become Christians! God is good!! Between our church and the two church starts, we have seen over 180 children! WOW! There's much follow-up to do. We pray that we'll see families become a part of our church as a result of our outreach this summer. With the two church starts: one in Summerside/Slemon Park, about 45 minutes west of here, and the Mount Stewart area, about 20 minutes north of here, we hope to see ministries of some sort continue in the fall. Please pray for all the follow-up efforts! Thanks for praying for our ministries this summer and know that you are playing a part in God's work in PEI!! It was wonderful to have such great teams from North Carolina with us this summer, as well as the summer missionaries. I have made forever friends and been forever impacted!!

Thanks to help from First Baptist Church, Salisbury, North Carolina, we were able to hold our first ever Sports Camp of basketball and soccer! That's 'one of mine', Tamara, wearing the cap.

The team did a wonderful job leading in sports, Bible stories, crafts, and just sheer fun! Here's Kim with 'one of mine', Cameron.

We held day clubs in 5 parks and had over 75 children attend! Eric, in the middle, became a Christian!!

A spin-off of musical chairs on a hot day!

A wonderful team from Old Town Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, came and led in the day clubs.

"Man, I Feel Like a Woman!" will never be the same when you hear two guys belt it out! The two Jonathans, Freda, Kendall, and I loved singing Shania while driving back from helping out with a Block Party in Slemon Park, as well as while driving the guys to the university where the team was staying. I wasn't quite paying attention while I was belting out another Shania song and ended up driving partly on the sidewalk when I turned into the university! The looks on everyone's faces were priceless and I will never live it down! Here we are singing for others. Blond Jonathan is the one who prayed with Eric when he became a Christian!!!

Another 'one of mine', Ethan, who was so proud of his "new do" one morning at VBS. He and I could never smile at the same time for a picture!
I was so glad to see the bulk of our church's kids at VBS!! I have really enjoyed getting to know them better this summer.

4 year olds to K class~Ethan, then Anthony 'one of mine'--Tamara's brother

Kids perform for parents on the last day before we have a hot dog lunch together.

What a joy to have a team from Green Meadows Baptist Church in Mocksville, North Carolina, with us to help lead in Vacation Bible School!

A Busy Summer

2007-08-02T08:26:00.000-05:00

Boy, am I behind on keeping this blog updated! That just goes to show the busyness of my summer. Though it's been busy, it's been good, especially with one child becoming a Christian last week during backyard Bible clubs! I am enjoying my first summer of ministry at Community Baptist and on the Island. It's just a lovely place to be and a great fit for me at this time in life!
We are gearing up for VBS next week. I think I am a bit to calm right now, considering there are still things to do. Maybe after 5 years of leading VBS, I know how it works and how God takes care of things. Sure, there is preparation, but I also know that I need to remain calm and do what needs doing. We have a team from North Carolina, our 4th this summer, arriving tomorrow night to assist us in VBS. It has been wonderful to have our NC partners with us this summer. Wonderful people and I know I've made some friends for life.
Speaking of friends for life, 'my' girls, Freda and Kendall, left yesterday, so my heart is a bit sad right now. We were practically glued at the hip all summer, so not having them around will be different for me. I continue to be in an adjustment mode, but guess that just comes with life sometimes.
In the midst of all that is going on in my life, God is continuing to show Himself to me and I stand in awe. He never ceases to amaze me and He continues to remind me that He is the Constant in my life! I pray that you experience Him in a mighty way this day!!! I will post pics of the summer when things are a little less crazy.

Celebrating Both Countries

2007-07-13T20:03:00.000-05:00

Being an American and now living in Canada, I get the neat opportunity to celebrate both countries each July! Canada Day takes place on July 1st and is the celebration of Canada becoming a country. This year, a group of us from church went down to the Charlottetown Waterfront to watch the fireworks. We arrived before it got dark and enjoyed fellowshipping together over a game of Phase 10. It's always great to watch fireworks!

Though I'm usually not in the US on July the 4th, I still like to celebrate my home country's day of independence in some way. Seeing that my new friends, Kendall and Freda, are American and would not be home on July 4th, we decided to 'host' a 4th of July cook-out for the Wednesday night prayer group. In Canada, you don't hear the term 'cook-out'. It's mainly just a BBQ, but not what us Southerners would consider BBQ. BBQ here is just hot dogs/hamburgers cooked on the grill. Us gals wanted to do more! We had a menu of BBQ chicken, burgers, baked beans, potato salad, chips, sweet iced tea, pecan pies, and a US flag cake, with some things provided by others. We enjoyed planning the evening and everyone seemed to have a great time of fellowship and food.
I thank God for the honor I have to celebrate two wonderful countries and how neat to sing both countries' anthems in one night, as we did on July 4th!

Meet Kendall and Freda

2007-07-05T20:07:00.000-05:00

On June 17, Freda and Kendall walked into my life. They are our summer missionaries from Alabama. What a joy it is to have them around to assist us in all sorts of things at the church, but I think that more than anything, I love their company, zest for life, laughter, love for the Lord, and sharing our Southern ways! Now, I'm not the only one who sounds different around here~just kidding! These young ladies are a breath of fresh air for me and God knew I needed them at this point in my life. It can get pretty lonely down in the church basement and we have tons of fun together. They take me back to being in my twenties and we're just silly together. In just a few weeks time, we have made wonderful memories together & they are so willing to do whatever we ask of them. They were with me as I was looking for a car and finally found one. With having them here, I am also taken back to two of my summers in college, doing exactly what they are doing. I can't help but wonder what God might do in their lives. There is no way that I would have ever imagined that 11 years ago, during my summer in Montana and getting to take a mission trip to Cochrane, Alberta, to work on the seminary and help with VBS at Bow Valley Church, that I would 'still' be in Canada. Of course, 9 years ago in Vancouver, BC, might have played a part as well! Girls, thank you for following the Lord this summer and blessing my heart!! Can't wait to see what God continues to do in and through you this summer and the years to come!!! I LOVE Y'ALL!!!

My New Car

2007-07-05T19:54:00.001-05:00

Well, for some reason I am just now posting pics of me and my new car when I have had it over a week! It is such a blessing to have this freedom again, to get a wonderful deal on the car and insurance, to have plenty of room to haul kids and youth & whoever (can seat 6) when needed, and to get good gas mileage. Thanks to all those who have been praying! It doesn't quite feel like mine yet, probably because it wasn't what I was expecting to find, but I am pleased with it and have received great compliments on it. When I test drove it, the FM radio was working, but after picking it up, only the AM worked. That about drove me crazy, so without a CD player in it yet, I have pulled out some tapes! While fast forwarding a tape the other night, the FM radio is now working, so needless to say, I won't be pushing that AM button again! Watch out PEI, Ellen is back on the road again!

"Be Still and Know that I am God."

2007-06-22T20:44:00.000-05:00

This is what God has been saying to me lately. Have you ever been there? It's not an easy place for me to be, but I know I need to trust Him. For the past few weeks, I have been spiritually overwhelmed. God continues to show Himself to me and I am speechless! I especially saw it in getting the car today, as the amount came to just over what I came here with to spend on one! Of course, they'll be some other expenses with it, but what a joy to get a steal of deal really! I had great friends with me today as I made the decision.
I ask you to keep me in your prayers as I do my best to trust Him completely!!

Finally...a car!!!!

2007-06-22T20:37:00.000-05:00

Yippee!!! I finally found a car today, a 2000 Ford Taurus!! I have the keys, but it's not officially mine because I have to get insurance and get it registered, but it's mine! I wrote the check today and got it for much less than anticipating finding one for. GOD IS GOOD...ALL THE TIME..ALL THE TIME...GOD IS GOOD!!! Thanks to all of you who have been praying. Now just pray for a good insurance rate!! I'll post more pics when I actually have the car in my possession.

My Parents' Visit

2007-05-29T18:33:00.000-05:00

Mom and Dad left today for their trek back to MS after a week of being here with me. We had a great time together, as we explored some of the Island. PEI is a beautiful place!!! We saw lighthouses, beaches, marinas where lobster fishermen were coming in, Anne of Green Gables 'home', countryside, and more. It was a whirlwind of a week and we are tired, but am so glad they got to come and get a bit of a taste of my new life here. For the most part, the weather was great. Since they drove up, they were able to bring the rest of my things. I had planned on driving up back in Feb, but since I had to sell the Blazer, I had to leave stuff. What great parents to bring it up! My place feels a bit more homey now!! No luck on finding a car yet, but I know God has just the perfect little car for me.
My parents were able to bring up my mirror, help me hang things, and they bought me this area rug that goes just great with my furniture and I think it really adds to my place. I still have a few other odds and ends to do in here and will post later.
Just one of many lighthouses on the Island

Just one of many beaches with the countryside in the distance
The inspiration and setting for the Anne of Green Gables books!! Seeing it has inspired me to try and read the books and watch the movies this summer! Yes, I'm guilty of not doing that, though I've seen some of the movies and know enough about the storyline.

Reasons I'm Glad I Live in the Church Basement

2007-05-20T16:02:00.001-05:00

5. I don't have to drive to work or church.
4. I can sleep in more since work and church are upstairs.
3. It's a nice quiet place to live in.
2. I don't have housing expenses.
1. If I forget to put on deodorant on Sundays, I can just run back downstairs, put it on, and go about the day!

Spring Snow

2007-05-19T19:24:00.000-05:00

Snow on Easter Weekend~my windows were half covered by snow drifts!

Well, since arriving, I have seen snow a few times...nothing really new for me with spending 5 years in Calgary. The most snow came there in the spring. Our Easter services were cancelled here because of a blizzard the night before! They've never had to do that. Talk about wierd, not going to church that day! This past Wednesday, we woke up to snow on the ground, once again. It hasn't been too cold lately, so it was gone by midday. While getting ready that morning, I looked out the window and was glad I had already opened the blinds because I got to see this red fox in the field! I had experienced this at a friend's house recently, as we watched a red fox catching field mice. Who needs the Discovery Channel?! It was neat to just take in this part of God's creation and watch as he pounced for his breakfast!

My Favourite Spot

2007-05-19T19:10:00.000-05:00

Back in March, I took a walk along the boardwalk in town, amidst the snow and chilly weather, and found my favourite spot, so far, in C'town. There are benches where I can just sit and take this sight in! It's actually fairly calm down there, despite the bit of traffic and other people. That will pick up fast, I'm sure, with summer approaching! When taking that first walk, I found 2 treasures of oyster shells in 2 different places. They ended up being a match! It was just neat to find those and they still smelt of the ocean and took me back to my days on the MS Gulf Coast!

I took these pics just last week. Charlottetown is the Birthplace of Confederation, so there is much history here.

Quite the cultural experience

2007-05-09T15:57:00.000-05:00

Getting a lobster lesson from former fisherman, Pastor Wallace

What an experience I had on Saturday! The church held its annual Lobster Dinner. I've heard about this yearly event since before I arrived and the excitement's been in the air for months. I was looking forward to seeing what it was all about and eating lobster. Though it was a tiring day for all, and two days for some, it was a fun experience for me and we sold over 400 tickets! The church building still has the lobster smell in it, though it's not as stinky as it was! My afternoon included a lobster anatomy lesson, putting two lobsters in for the kill (that sounds terrible, but that's what happens~what a horrible way to die!), cleaning out the hash~the meat of the knuckles, & helping assemble take-out plates. Of course, I did eat some out-of-the-shell lobster and it was alright. I was so tired from being on my feet, I don't think I enjoyed it like I could have! FYI: the lobsters are done after they stop squealing! Just kidding: they are ready when they are red, as they are originally a brownish color. Not counting meeting folks from all over the world & taking in the Calgary Stampede, I don't think I've experienced this much culture in Canada!

Fishing Season is almost here

2007-05-03T20:05:00.000-05:00

If I understand correctly, fishing season officially begins this weekend. Many on the Island do this for a living in the spring and summer months. Just yesterday, I saw small fishing boats in a lake and was told that those are shell fishermen~the ones who catch anything that lives in a shell and that they use these two rake like things to scoop the things up, then sort through and sell them. About a month or so ago, I started seeing these lobster traps (in the picture) out while driving in the countryside. The fishermen were getting them ready. When in Beach Point a few weekends ago, the fishing village where the pastor's family is from (he actually left fishing for a living to be a pastor), I had to stop and take these pics of the lobster traps and the boats in the marina. Lakes are thawed out and spring is in the air. I'm seeing greener grass each day! Our church is getting ready for the annual Lobster Supper this Saturday...and I am excited about trying lobster, though I don't think I want to watch them being cooked!! I'll let you know how it taste...

If I'm not teaching kids...

2007-04-30T21:08:00.000-05:00

I had the opportunity to be on the East Coast Baptist Association's Vacation Bible School training team with fellow Mission Service Corps missionary, Linda Puckett, who's husband is pastor at a sister church. We led in 2 clinics (one on the Island and one in Moncton, New Brunswick) and had a ton of fun and worked really well together. I think a lot of that is due to that she is from Tennessee! If I'm not teaching children, I love to teach others about teaching children!! These clinics have come at a great time because it's really gotten me pumped about the summer and leading VBS again. We're using LifeWay's Game Day Central: Where Heroes are Made. It's a sports theme and for this gal who doesn't play sports, I'm still excited! For those who know me best, you know how I'm a sports fan and love to cheer the teams on! I think I could do VBS every week of the year and be happy! Stressed, probably, but I do love it when it's happening and seeing what God does in the lives of workers, children, and parents.

2007-04-30T20:54:00.000-05:00

Just a couple pics of Prince Edward Island taken at the same area, a month apart! This is right beside the Cape Bear Lighthouse in the Beach Point/Murray Harbour area. Of course, it's overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Nova Scotia is in the background, which you can barely see. The frozen-over pic was taken on March 11, when the pastor's family took me over to their home place at Beach Point, a fishing village. It was very windy that day, but it was neat to see all of this. The pic with me in it was taken last Saturday, the 21st, when a friend and I rode to the VBS Clinic together and I took her by here. It was so neat to see the change of scenery and to know that spring is definitely in the air!!

A New Home

2007-04-16T21:24:00.000-05:00

Well, I have been meaning to do this for quite awhile, so hear I am. I hope that this blogspot can give you some insight into my life in Prince Edward Island and what in the world I am doing here! Charlottetown is a great little place to be and Community Baptist is a great group of people. So much of life here already reminds me of 'home' and what I once knew~~folks knowing each other when you go into stores, not so fast pace of life, senior adults in the church, and the ocean and smell of the water (it takes me back to the summers on the Mississippi Gulf Coast). I am still adjusting to my new life here, but it's going alright. I like my new little place and I'm making it my own. God continues to reveal Himself to me and the call He has placed on me to be here at this time. He is the Constant in my life...May you know His peace today!!