To sweet for pictures....

We have continued to spend day's at the orphanage....

I just love it!
I just adore the children!
I love the tias! They are as amazing and hard working as ever!
But I been simply reveling in the moments and forgetting to take pictures....
My heart can remember these moments so well, a photo just can't seem to capture what I see....

Sometimes I play with each child, I watch each one play, I get each one to smile and laugh, I pray for them and for their future forever family's! Each one is so dear, so precious, so perfect....Words just can't explain it!

The tears, the smiles, the joy or sadness that you see in their eyes...the healing or the pain...they are so real, so honest, so perfectly made in the image of God!

The last morning I was there, the tia that watches the babies had to take the youngest to the hospital so I watched the other two babies. The one was very, very fussy and I have no idea why! So I broke every rule in the orphanage book of rules and I held him (for a long time!), I bounced him, I hugged him and played with him and he finally fell asleep...so I laid him down and he woke up awhile later just screaming so I picked him up and rocked him.....until he fell asleep....then I rocked until I fell asleep.....

So baby G and senorita Brianna slept on in the rocking chair....I'm not sure who was happier?...
It was one of those moments that I will never forget...the peaceful happy baby in my arms and the feelings of purpose and fulfillment. I know there is never anything else I will ever do that will be more important than this.

Father of the Fatherless and Protector of Widows is God in His holy habitation. 

My heart is growing sad as I count the days to go back home....but I look forward to the future and seeing how God is going to twine all of this into my future and what He has for me! I'm so excited! But first I need to write this outline...so I can write my paper....so I can get a good grade....so I can graduate.... and then....but wait, thankfully I don't have to wait to serve God and I know that he has many opportunity's for me to serve Him waiting at home....so one step at a time.....

A different sort of Hospital

On Sunday afternoon I was asked to visit with a little boy who was at the hospital. He has been in the hospital for at least 5 days and the tia had been with him the entire time! They never leave a child at the hosptial alone so she had not left him. I was very excited at the opportunity but still the experiences never cease to amaze me!

How could I, a white girl from America, be given such a wonderful opportunity? There is honestly nothing I would rather do in the world than spend my afternoon with a child who bares the title of being an orphan. If only you could have only been with me! If only you could have only looked into his sweet and weak eyes. If only you could have only seen what I seen I know you would feel the same way. Orphans have a way of changing your life forever... they are so innocent that they don't even mean too, but you know you will never be the same.

For them it's their life...for me it's a passion!

I found myself being dropped off on a street corner with directions to the bedside of a sick little prince charming (and did he ever win me over!). I followed directions and a kind guard showed me to cama 23. Lets just say it is an amazing feat to make it through an Ecuadorian Hospital with my Spanish skills and get where you need to go...obviously God was going before me.

I walked into a bare room! Coming from a small town hospital in the States..... to here...(I don't even think I will be able to take anyone's complaints seriously anymore....) I practically swallowed my tongue! I walked in the room and seen enough violations to get me fired! But miraculously this little boy is on the mend. It's amazing all the things that we "think" we need that apparently people can really live without.....

 He has had a blood transfusion a few day's earlier, he was very weak and wasn't up to talking very much, so I did the talking and he just nodded his head...I used my limited Spanish and read to him. I smiled and told him my Spanish needs some more practice... to which he rewarded me with a small smile. Dinner came and interrupted us.... he sat up, with one arm curled up next to him and the other armed with a HUGE soup spoon. He ate up his soup then attacked his pile of white rice and jabbed at his chicken leg. Somehow we got his chicken leg cut up into eatable bites for a sick boy and he ate what he could then collapsed back into bed and curled up for the afternoon. So I sat and studied Spanish.....

He dozed in and out...you would have thought that it didn't matter if I was there or not....

I didn't do much....

I helped him eat lunch, I read him a chapter from his book and talked to him a little. I shut the window and tucked him in. Then I sat their waiting and praying for this sweet little boy....

The question that swirled in my head.....What will the rest of his life look like?

Eventually it was time to leave...his caregiver had not returned yet, so I tucked him in, whispered in his ear, and kissed his cheek...and I swear...there were tears glistening in his eyes...but I didn't mind, because mine were glistening right back....

I don't understand why God allowed me to live the life I have..... I used to think I had it so rough...wait, sometimes I still do....what is wrong with me? When I look in the mirror tonight I only see a girl who has been so blessed that she should be the first in line to give up anything that is asked of her.....I want to be that girl, God make this self-centered person into that girl...

Abortion at it's best!

The fight for life goes on....

Yes, I have been reading blog posts and felt compelled to share them with you.

The best way for your heart to be broken over the lost lives is to see it and share in the horror they experience. Please take the time to read these and share! But most of all continue to pray that the slaughtering of life will cease.


This is my positive abortion story! | The Matt Walsh Blog


Making the Tragedy of Abortion Personal - Abort 73.com


19 facts about abortion in America

Reflecting on 2013

Wow, I can't believe its already the very end of 2013. It has been one of the best and hardest years of my life. It has presented some of the biggest challenges but I have seen some of the greatest miracles. I think as every year draws to a close I have the tenancy to think.... this was the best year! Because no matter what happens in that year I can always see God's faithfulness and goodness. I realize that all the steps I take each and everyday contributes to the person I will be tomorrow, so no matter how easy or hard the step may be, God has a purpose and He is working in my heart and life and continues to draw me and change me and I don't ever want to go back... Time is short, life is fleeting. In many ways my life looks like its only beginning but then I know that tomorrow is promised to no man, so make today count. It could be your last. Will you be ready to meet your Maker if you die tonight? Are you ready to stand before God? Jesus Christ came to give us life, eternal life. He gave His life for us, so the very least we can do is spend our life for Him!? In a day where technology and social life bombards us on every side I so often stop and realize that I'm not being purposeful about making my life count for eternity. This life shall soon pass, only what is done for Christ shall last. God is so good and I'm so thankful for His faithfulness to me as I walk from day to day, I have had some pretty big things happen this year.... My first trip out of the the country, meeting some really amazing people and developing some amazing friendships, embarking on an adoption journey with my family, starting my first year of college and last but not least.... flipping my car... In each instance I can see Gods hand leading and guiding....He has a purpose, He has a plan. He changed my heart and life in Ecuador, He gave my friends and acquaintances that share my passions and desires, He has proven over and over again that He is the God of the impossible, He has changed my family and many others forever, He has proven that He ways and timing are perfect, He will provide the means and strength for His will to be accomplished and more often than not in ways I would have never believed possible! He certainly has kept me safe and well through it all and I hope and pray that my life will be testimony of His goodness and faithfulness.

I'm so humbled and deeply grateful that God would choose me to walk the path that He has placed me on, its so much more than I deserve. He has taken a sinful wretch and blessed me beyond compare. I'm thankful for each person that has touched my life this year, I know that so many have prayed for me and my family and I can never thank you enough because God has and is answering those prayers. I'm looking forward to 2014 and everything that God has in store. May the end of another year be a reminder to all of us that our time is shorter, life is a gift, use it wisely.

I have so enjoyed reading the year end emails and videos from different ministry's. I need the reminder that there is still more work to be done, I need to remember how blessed I am and how much for thankful I aught to be, I need to be reminded that God is working, souls are being saved, lives are being changed! As I have been challenged and blessed by these video updates I wanted to share a few videos with you...

Many of you will probably remember this orphanage that Natasha and I visited in the jungle...

Casa De Fe

It so amazing to be able to continue to see the work going on in these places knowing that God has not forsaken them!

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 1 Corinthians 9:24

Lets be purposeful, no excuses, confess, believe and run on....

Fellowship of the Unashamed

So I'm a college student...
I spend all of my "extra" time studying, I type up papers, and I do research....but the blessing of a Christian Education is my classes are from a Christian perspective and I am challenged Spiritually. It is such a blessing to have everything I learn applied to a Christian Worldview and to have teachers and classmates who encourage me in the Word of God. I have the blessing of researching scripture for papers! But part of being challenged is being humbled....and the message in this short video is quite humbling when I realize how much my life is lacking....

So God,
Thank you for the blessing of a Christian education...
Thank you for the challenges you give me....
But God keep changing me....
Keep working on me....

Search me, O God, and know my heart, try me, and know my thoughts. 

Psalm 139:23

I know I'm a sinner, I'm only a sinner....but I have been saved by grace, and this is my Hope. God will continue to work in me and change me. I want my life to be broken and spilled out for the one who saved my soul, it is a daily task that doesn't seem to get any easier. There is still a whole lot of me that I need to get rid of...

The race is still being run...

You may remember the race up the mountain that Natasha and I did in Ecuador. I have continued to receive updates and pray for this ministry to girls that have been trafficked. Here is an article that has been written about them and the climb. 

Fighting human trafficking in Ecuador

15 OCT, 2013 | ECUADOR

OM International

“Do you see that volcano up there?” Boris Salinas points to a snowy mountain top overseeing Ecuador’s capital Quito. “It might be the target for a second Freedom Climb in Ecuador.”

Boris, a young Colombian married to Ecuadorian Fernanda, doesn’t stop talking about his plans and dreams to awaken the people of Ecuador for a revolution against human trafficking. Boris himself experienced what the intervention of God through people in someone’s life can do. After having lived on the streets for three years as a teenager, his life changed radically when an American Christian couple in Quito adopted him.

Click on the title to read the whole article. Its so amazing to see Gods love for them poured out through these people.

To read my original blog post on the climb click here. 

Here is their recent newsletter if you would like to learn more about this ministry.

Friend on Facebook Follow on Twitter Forward to a Friend Be part of Dunamis: As you know, we are in our search for churches, organizations, universities or schools where we can show our ministry, and explain more about sex trafficking, domestic abuse, labor trafficking and rape. We want people to start worrying about these issues and show what this ministry has done over the last 4 years. We also want to show them some of the work the girls have done in our workshops and invite them to visit our ministry and our country. WE NEED YOUR HELP!! We want to let you know that we're saving money so we can buy a car for our ministry. Up to now we've saved an amount of 3000 $. We thank everyone who has helped us raise that amount of money so we can accomplish our goal. Now we need your help one more time! We need 4000 $so we can complete the amount required to buy our car. This car will help us as a tool for our ministry.  ZOE'S FIRST DAY  Great blessing! We want to thank you all for your support. Our daughter Zoe has started her first year, kindergarten; it's name is PLAY HOUSE and Zoe its thrill and excited! She wakes up everyday and ask us when is she going back to her school. She is very playful, has a lot of friends and has showed us some of the work she's done over the week. We are very happy to share these news with you guys, since you've been here since day one. OCTOBER!!! Here are some new of this month. Dear friend, We send you lots of love from Ecuador, and we want to thank you all for your everyday support. For us it's a great blessing being able to let everyone know what God has done with us and what He keeps up doing with our ministry. Love, Boris, Fernanda and Zoe.   NEWS, NEWS, NEWS!!!  Be a part of!! We get our sewing on! New Girls We need your help!  Zoe's first day! The sewing workshop We are starting a new project of home made articles exclusively for this New Years Eve. The girls are enjoying so much this workshop, they put to test their skills and creativity. We are looking for people who are interested in helping our ministry so we are able to buy a sewing machine. The total amount we need to raise is 600 $ or if you own a sewing machine and you're not using it anymore, you could get in touch with us, we'll give it a good use to that machine! If you want to participate in this project by praying, donating money or just being part of this idea, send us an e-mail, write us a letter or search for our address to send any donation. The girls and our ministry will be thankful. PRAY FOR: - So we can continue our project, finding a new sewing machine and help the girls develop new skills. - Our economic support, we have 35% of it complete, we search for new and interested people to help us as a family. - Pray for the new girls that are coming, so that God would allow us to show His love to them and that they get to know Him. - Pray for the finances of the foundation to be covered completely, so we can reach and help more girls. NEW GIRLS!!! This month we'll be expecting 8 new girls who have been victims of traffic labor by being sent to other countries to do forced labor, also we're receiving girls who have been victims of sex traffic on our frontiers. Their board of directors are very interested in them, so they are able to find new tools that will help them in their lives. For us this is a great opportunity to share God's Gospel with them because they've never heard of the love of God. PRAY FOR US! PRAY FOR: - More volunteers, committed and enlightened to help the girls. - Pray so more groups, churches and universities open their doors so we can introduce our ministry and, at the same time, sell some jewelry the girls have done. This is their only support while they're on the ministry. - Pray for our family, so we can stand still and firm. Believing in all the promises God has made to us.

follow on Twitter | friend on Facebook | forward to a friend  Copyright © 2013 Dunamis Foundation, All rights reserved. If you don't want to continue receiving this email, please click on unsubscribe. Our mailing address is: Dunamis Foundation Extreme Response Int. Casilla 17-17-1227 Quito South America Ecuador

WHY?

Why did I go to Ecuador?

Recently being asked this question, it has been on my mind....

Why? Why did I go anyway? Why is my heart still there? Why do I want to go back?

For the children?

I loved the children, children are such a precious, priceless gift from God! I want each child to know he is, and be treated as such.

For God?

He gave His all for me...should I do any less for Him?

For me?

I want to be different, I want to be more and more like Christ, I want my priorities to keep changing, I want to be less selfish, I want to see God work and move, I want to draw closer to Him and so much more!!

Well, when I first felt God laying the calling on my heart, I had no idea I would go to Ecuador or an orphanage....So I guess my first desire was to do it for Christ, and to be obedient.....then along the way, I started realizing how it would change me, and how much I needed to be changed.....then I wanted to go for the children, to love them and meet any needs I could.

So I guess the truth is, I didn't start out doing it for the children...that was just an added blessing! Me? well that was just a given! God was bound to need to change me along the way.....and God, well, if He can use me.... I can only be grateful! I'm so thankful He chose me. The children, well my heart can't forget them....its as if they are part of me......

So what did I get? An absolutely life changing adventure, the largest faith growing test, and an undeniable belief in the power of Christ and the cross!

But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord,

are changed into the same image from glory to glory,

even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

2 Corinthians 3:18

Thank You

One of those nights...well this summer has had some of the most stressful weeks of my life, and with school, a new job, and continued fundraising and adopting.....It's not over yet! But it just continually proves to me that His grace is sufficient and man plans BUT GOD, directs his steps. I know these two concepts yet they never cease to amaze me! Even six months ago, I never would have imagined the ways that God would provide or where He would have me be today, but by the grace of God...here I am!

So as I collapsed into bed exhausted, suddenly my mind went reeling and sleep escaped me! I struggled and tossed and turned...then I gave up and started reading Courageous Faith, a book that I have to read for school, but that was no accident! God knew exactly what I would need...I read a couple of pages and ended with my arms reaching out to my Saviour, dropping all my burdens and cares and receiving the sweet peace that can only come from Him! This song came to mind....

I'm so thankful for a God who cares, a God who loves, and a God who is here. I'm so thankful He carries my burdens and struggles that would pull me under, He never leaves me or forsakes me. Truly what else can I say but thank you?

What about the children?

Have I forgotten about the wonderful children who made such an impact on my life?

NO WAY!!

I eagerly await news and updates about these precious children and so many others that I met or have read about or heard about. These children are always on my heart, it is my joy and privilege to bring them before the Father and love them in every way I can.

Its such a joy to hear that the children I love so much are being adopted, but its still hard to let them go in my heart. I want to be there and see them with their new families. I want to be there and see the faces of joy. I want to see as the children grow and change....they are growing up without me....

Each and everyday is a new day. We don't have to go over seas to see the people that are in need...to find people that Jesus loves...souls that He died to save....lives that He will rescue...to find people and resources to invest in...so whether its here or there....far or near....Will you serve God today?

Tears...

Visiting with a dear elderly neighbor who recently lost her husband. As she was talking with me and sharing her wonderful memories and keepsakes of her husband, my tears nearly spilled over. Hers have been spent I'm sure...but my heart nearly broke. Married for over 60 years, now alone....

What has happened to me? I'm no cryer...well at least I used to not be one...

Others loneliness and heartaches never left such a huge impact on me before...now it stamps an impression on my heart that I can't forget! I've seen children alone...with absolutely no one.... not even.... someone. I have felt their pain in a small, small way...and I can't forget it!

So helpless, so alone, these are the things that my heart will not forget....when I hear about 2 precious little girls burning in a house fire, when I think of all the precious children waiting for families, when I hear about children that need to be rescued, when I talk to lonely grandpa's and grandma's, when I see people trapped inside their bodies, when I see those with no one...my heart reaches out in a way it never did before. My heart aches for them, and God taught me a little more what it is like to rejoice with them that rejoice and how to weep with those that weep.

I work with elderly and have been able to notice in so many ways how many of these abandoned grandpa's and grandma's are in so many ways like a lot of the orphans I met, of course on a different scale, with different surroundings and all, but so many of them are just looking for someone to care. Someone to stop in and say Hi, someone to give them a hug and spend sometime with them or event to adopt them as a "grandparent".

So it seems no matter where we are, there are people we can reach out too! Whether its at an orphanage or a nursing home, there are people that need our love and prayers, that need our investment and time. What are willing to invest?

I'm so thankful that God is continually changing me even if it means I shed more tears, even if it means I carry others burdens, even if it means I live and serve here and part of my heart is broken for those who are far away and suffering. Because I want to be like Him, I want to be tenderhearted and full of compassion, I want to be full of grace and mercy, I want to love as He loves, I want to be just like HIM!! I want others to know that God loves them, through me.

Romans 12:10-17

Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distribution to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. Bless them which persecute you: bless and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

I couldn't help but share these verses, maybe just so they could remind me....

But you are a chosen generation a royal priesthood,

a holy nation, His own special people,

that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you

out of darkness into marvelous light. 1 Peter 2:9

Arise, Shine; for your light has come! And the

glory of the Lord is risen upon you. Isaiah 60:1

Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun

in the kingdom of their Father. Matthew 13:43

If you extend your soul to the hungry and

satisfy the afflicted soul, then your light shall dawn

in the darkness, and your darkness shall be

as the noonday. Isaiah 58:10

Your word is a lamp unto my feet and

a light to my path. Psalm 119:105 

For you were once darkness, but now

you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of Light. Ephesians 5:8

To whom He was not announced, they shall see;

and those who have not heard shall understand. Romans 15:21

You are the light of the world.

A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Matthew 5:14

The Lord will be your everlasting light, and the days

of your mourning shall be ended. Isaiah 60:20

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see

your good works and glorify your

Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16

The Lord is my light and my salvation. Psalm 27:1

Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death,

upon them a light has shined. Isaiah 9:2

Every good and every perfect gift is from above,

and comes down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. James 1:17

Blessed beyond measure...

I am so blessed!

Time and time again, I have seen how God is so faithfully providing! He continually send people along our path who touch our lives, encourage us along the way and give.... It's so humbling to have people just walk up to you, hand you money and say, "We want to help you and your family".

How do you ever say Thank you? It is so much more than we could ever repay.....

We have people donate money, time, item to sell or raffle, ideas, love, prayer, encouragement.  People we don't even know, churches we have never attended.....why should they care? what does it matter to them? I probably wouldn't believe it if I hadn't seen it or experienced it for myself.

It is so amazing to see how God does something. How He works and moves, drawing people, heart, and motives together. When I think of the people who have banded together over these last eight years praying faithfully that God would provide a family for this little girl, then I think of all the people who have joined us on the journey to help bring her home...I stand in awe....amazed....and I'm so excited to see how God will bring it all to pass but I truly know that with God...all things are possible!!

She is still in Ecuador waiting and praying for a family, but God willing.....she will have a home. At this point I think I am as excited as she is! I just can't wait!

A gift from God

You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving. Amy Carmichael

This last week the Lord gave me an unexpected gift. I traveled down to a church camp with my pastor and his family. I met 5 adopted girls. (The next best thing to being back in Ecuador!) They quickly became a joy and blessings. I was able to have just a taste of what life looks like for them...the struggles and joys, the heartaches and pains, they have lost so much but they are gaining so much more in Christ! He is providing for them, caring for them, binding their wounds and broken hearts. It was amazing to see them with their parents and friends

It was such an amazing, unexpected gift from God. I found myself being drawn to tears more than once throughout the weekend. It was so much more than I would have thought or imagined that God would allow me to see in part, the continuing journey of these sweet adopted children so closely. These ones who have suffered more than any other children I know.

I went down with only the hope of having a little Rest & Relaxation, but I was blessed beyond measure with hospitality, friendships, fellowship, spiritual encouragement and renewing. God is an awesome God!

Touched

I am a night thinker and as I lay here trying to fall asleep my mind is full, my heart is touched and I'm so undeserving of it all! As I look back over this past weekend and think of all the people that have loved so richly, have given so freely and touched me so deeply.

What does one say? Thank you is never enough!

People we don't even know, some we may never meet....

People have given, donated, bought, shared, encouraged and blessed me and my family beyond measure. A church family opened their doors and their heart to me and through me, to my family. All for a little girl....in Ecuador. I am the only one that has ever met her, but so many people have opened their hearts and been touched by this little girl.

How can it be? Why would God do all of this for me? He has crossed boundaries, countries, lines and state. For His purpose and plan, its so humbling and exciting to be a part of this plan. I never would have imagined or fathomed the journey God had for me in 3 months in Ecuador, and how He would continue that journey after I arrived home. It is such a blessing to be able to share and talk about what God has done and is doing in my life.

I can never thank you enough, I pray God's richest blessings on all of you!

Each step along the journey brings us one step closer to God willing, bringing this little girl home, who I have come to love as my little sister.

Choice or Calling...

I use to think that Adoption was a choice that a family made....

But I have learned that Adoption is a calling....

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Adopting in God's mind was not Plan B. He predestined us for adoption before the creation of the world. Plan A was not lots of children who never sin and never need to be redeemed. Plan A was creation, fall, redemption, adoption so that the full range of God's glory and mercy and grace could be known by His adopted children. Adoption was not second best. Its was planned from the beginning." John Piper

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy. Psalm 82:3

Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. James 1:27

There are an estimated 143 million orphans in the developing world.

It's a gross understatement to say there are more children than adoptive families. Statistics from the US State Department show that in 2009 there were a total of less than 13,000 international adoptions completed in the US.

The numbers are crushing:

*15 million children have lost both mother and father.

*Tens of millions more are fatherless.

In the US alone 514,000 children live in our foster care system, and approximately 115,000 of them are waiting to be adopted right now.

*There are 18 million street children in India alone.

But a single statistics matters more than any other:

--It only takes one caring individual to make a lifelong difference for an orphan

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

What can I say? What can you do? I can't rescue all the children in the world! I can't fix all the social and legal problems. I can't get all the children adopted into loving and caring family's, I can't even get them all into loving and caring orphanages! I use to think of adopting as a choice, a family might chose to do this. if they can't have children, if they have the money and want to help an orphan, or if they simply want to help a help out an orphan. But when I stood in a room full of orphans, when I heard a girl with autism ask, where is my mom? When I seen children ask for a family, when I was surrounded by children that were full of behavioural issues and trapped with no way out....adoption and orphans took on a whole new meaning.....

Does it make sense to adopt a 9th child? Does it make sense to adopt a child that is blind or deaf? Does it make sense to adopt a child that has severe special needs? Does it make sense to spend countless hours, waiting, praying, and fundraising? Does it make sense to bring a foreign child across language, cultural and physical differences? Does it make sense to go through the pain, the adjustments, and the heartaches that adoption costs?

No, no, no, I think it sounds absurd, I think it sounds like a lot of work, I think it sounds like we should all just forget about it....

But wait...does it make sense that countless children are waiting for families? Does it make sense that just because they have a physical or mental handicap they shouldn't enjoy a family life? Does it make sense that we shouldn't because we have a large family....when they have no one? Does it make sense that we should give up because we can't afford it, when God has promised to provide, watch over, care for and protect these children that are so precious to Him?

Can not God provide a way?

For my family we never would have embarked on this journey if it hadn't come as a calling....if it hadn't required faith....if we hadn't stopped to say, "Your will be done, dear Lord". So God is moving mountains and we have the privilege of watching, participating and seeing what God will do.

Sharing my heart....

Since I have been back home, one of my very favorite things to do is to share and talk about Ecuador and all that I experienced there and the amazing things I saw, and how God has worked in my heart and life through this trip. It has not been an easy adjustment back into life here. I have changed, my heart has changed, my perspective and my priorities. Some days are harder than others....(like yesterday! :) Everywhere I go, I see and think of these children.....they are so engraved on my heart! Last evening I went to my siblings homeschool group program and there are two adopted children, that brought me to the brink of tears many times throughout the night.... I kept seeing our own special "Miss A", and all the children who have not been so blessed as to have a family.

Some nights I just sit and look at pictures, and all the precious joys and times I had there come flooding back, other nights as I pray for them, my eyes fill with tears, when I hear people complaining about how they want to get more things, I silently cringe when I think of how much they have, when I walk into stores, I think of all the needs all the items could meet, when I sit down to eat I think of the children, and how much they would love the chunk of meat on my plate. The children, the places, the needs, the love I have for them...

Last Sunday I had the privilege of sharing with my church about my journey through Ecuador. I gave the super short version...If I really said everything I would like too, it would take hours and hours....It was such a blessing to share with my church family, they have prayed for me, supported me and walked with me on this journey. I have been so blessed by them and their love for me! I set up a table with items and pictures from Ecuador and it was so neat to see the children all crowding around looking, and asking questions about different places and people. I have so enjoyed sharing and talking with people!

If you are interested in hearing about my trip you can listen here but if you would like to talk to me  in person, I would love too! Just contact me, and I would love to share with you or a group. I have been so blessed by God, I want to share it with everyone I can!

Around the World....

I recently seen these articles, and thought they were very interesting! You might be interested in taking a look at them.....

A weeks worth of grocery's for families around the world.

Children's favorite toys from around the world.

Children's places to sleep around the world.

We seldom realize how blessed we are, most of us have just been raised where we have plenty. Many of us cannot fathom what it would be like to not know where your next meal is coming from, or not having a place to sleep at night, or not having shoes to wear, or just having a couple of toys. Our thoughts of being poor, mean something like, not being able to go on a trip we want to, or not having top brand clothing, or not being able to buy everything we want. But we have it so good! We ought to stop and be thankful, because we are so blessed! We live in America, the land of plenty...the grocery stores are packed with hundreds of options, we have restaurants  clothings stores, toy stores, and in case you need financial help we have tons of programs to help out, we have soup kitchens and clothing banks. We have 2nd hand stores, clothing swaps, and garage sales. Most of us throw food out that gets bad before we eat it, most of us complain because we need to go through our things and get rid of stuff because we have too much! Can you fathom what its like to be an orphan and have a bed and maybe a drawer of things to call your own. Can you fathom what its like to try to steal off of someone else's plate to try to fill your belly? Can you fathom being a two year old on the streets fending for yourself?

What can we do? We can't help it we were born here! You're right, but maybe we should stop and make ourselves aware, and help and support and pray for those who do not have the everyday essentials that we are so blessed with! Maybe we should stop to realize how foolish our grumbling and complaining is, how despicable it must be in God's eye. Shouldn't we stop to at least thank Him?

One last week in Ecuador...

Did I mention that these last days were going to be the hardest? Because they are! It started a week before Natasha left...but after she left, I still had a cushion...I had two weeks left! But now its down to one week...so tomorrow will be my last Tuesday...

It hard to enjoy the time yet know that its coming to an end...to not waste a moment ...yet your heart is breaking...I'm so looking forward to going home and seeing my family, church family and friends....yet my heart is breaking for all the children, friends and needs I will leave behind....

I prayed that God would work and change my heart and life in this trip.....but maybe I didn't know how much it would hurt....but I would do it all over again, and I pray this is only the beginning of a wonderful journey in my life.

What will it be like to be home again? Will I forget everything I have learned and seen here? or will it burn in my heart? Have I changed to much to fit in where I use to? I know God has changed me, but I think it will be more apparent when I go home....I have been gone for three months....that's a long time! Will I be content with my life at home?

Then I remember the One who brought me here....who opened and closed doors.....preparing the way and preparing my heart and life to serve and live here. I know He has a plan and work for me at home, and I will be perfectly content and joyful, when I am where God wants me.

The words of Paul...

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased  and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13

Did I mention these days would be the hardest? Because they sure are! My mind and heart was spinning all day! I hold a baby and I want to cry...I hug a tia and I want to cry....I know how much I will miss these things....these are all the lasts....

When I left home, I enjoyed spending time by myself....and I was not a very emotional person....I liked my space...I was the type that said, Bye...as I ran out the door....but I have gotten so use to having people (Natasha) around all the time, it feels strange when I am all alone...I have gotten use to all the hugs and "Ecuadorian" kisses, I'm going to miss them....maybe I will just walk up and give everyone "Ecuadorian" hugs and kisses when I get back....haha it would be pretty great to see the looks on everyone's faces! I had a personal space that we Americans stick too...but that has greatly diminished in Ecuador....where you give people a cheek kiss without necessarily knowing their name...Its just part of culture...or have people stand 2 inches or less away from you on the bus....you get use to it!

What will it be like to be on a time schedule again...Ecuador has its own time...which is one reason I'm convinced God brought me here! I am one of those scheduled on time people! I have everything planned out! But in Ecuador I have learned to let things go...see how things turn out, relax, where a "just a moment" is  half an hour, and come over for dinner means all afternoon/evening. Its Ecuadorian time, you just go with it!

When did I adjust to all the things that shocked me when I first got here? When did I stop staring and saying, "What are they doing?" and start laughing and saying, "nothing surprises me anymore". We are in Ecuador! When did I fall in love with this huge city? These Spanish speaking, people? This crazy life?

Yet, I have learned how precious a family is! I have one of the greatest gifts on earth, and I never realized how much it was worth! I never realized how much I loved them all! How much they all meant to me! How much of an impact my family on my life! I definitely would not be who or where I am today if not for my family. I never realized all the blessing I had growing up...all the ways that God protected and blessed me. Things that I had not even considered as being blessing, they were just part of life...but so many people live without....What will it be like to have them all again?

Yes, these days are the hardest! I don't know what has happened to me?

I am so worn out emotionally, mentally and physically! Please pray for me this last week! That I will have the strenght to finish up what He has for me to do in my last week here! It will be filled with a lot of joys, but a lot of sorrows!

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10

The baby house if full of very sick babies! Please, please continue to pray for these precious little one! When I arrived this morning at 7 a tia was already gone to the hospital with one of the babies...the tias were so worn out and tired! Many of the babies have pneumonia! They all have fevers, coughing, raspy breathing....they are all so quiet and just sleep or lay there. As I was giving my little guy a breathing treatment, his usual smile and playfulness was gone and he just curled up in my arms and did nothing....

Later on in the morning I went with to take three babies to the doctor...I carried the littlest one who's O2 sat. was down below 40 this morning...I didn't know it could go down that low and you could live! (it is suppose to be above 90) It freaked me out,  more than just a little! So I pulled along her oxygen tank behind...That brought back a lot of memories! But she is so tiny! Her breathing is so terrible, I just wanted to take all her pain, her coughing shook her whole little body! As soon as the doctor seen her, he said, she needs to go to the hospital! So when we were done, Tanya and I took the two other babies and headed back to the orphanage  while the tia took the tiny princess and headed for the hospital! I have not heard how she is going yet, please pray for this little girl, she was the one that was in the hospital before. She is three months old.

When we got back is was after lunch so all the children were sleeping, the tia asked me to go eat lunch quickly then come back to help her! So off I went...then I brought back the brownies, strawberries and ice cream...for her late birthday present! But the best present of all was when I pulled up Natasha's face on skype! She loved talking to Natasha! and I rather enjoyed it myself! :)

Then babies started waking up...so I ran off to find some more help because all the babies needed breathing and congestion treatments and of course they all wanted a bottle...but most of them didn't drink too much....

By the time we were all done with babies we fed toddlers then I came home to hopefully get some much needed rest! I could really use a good night sleep!

This was my sober warning from Proverbs this morning...

Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord. But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death. Proverbs 8:33-36

Can it be?

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have; for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what men shall do unto me. Hebrews 13:5 & 6

Well I have to say that after a long day yesterday, a late night (early morning), and all the excitment and high emotions, morning came way to fast!! But we pulled out of bed determined not to miss a moment of Natasha's last day.....I can't believe it! It seems like yesterday, I met her and she said, I will be here for 2 1/2 months...and yet, it seems so long ago! But believe it or not, its here. So I can cry about it later.....

I tried to make her a nice breakfast so she would forget about all of my cooking disasters and think of me as a good cook after she leaves....:) I think it worked!

So we walked to the baby house....

Hungry children were waiting to be fed!

Babies waiting to be cuddled....ok they were waiting for bottles, but we cuddled anyway!

After breakfast the house was filled with volunteers so we went down to see the other children.....

We danced and sang....

But with sadness in our hearts because we are all going to miss her......

We love you Natasha!!

This cute little girl had to get in on the fun too!

So after our time with the children, we went back to the house and Natasha packed up all her things....made me realize how much I was not looking forward to that! This afternoon they had a birthday party for a little boy that was adopted this last summer.  So all the children got together....its always fun! But it brought back a lot of memories at not so perfect timing.....

This little boy is doing amazing! He just got his little stand, and he does great in it! He loved being able to watch and play with the other children!

Everyone waiting....

The loved gathering around him to play!

Way to cute!

His family brought, snacks, cake, party hats, balloons and everything!

Here is the little guy, he turned two today!

Its so amazing watching him walk around and play. He had so much fun chasing the balloon around squealing and laughing! He can't see real well but it has made such a huge difference! He is a different boy from when I first met him.

So then the goodbyes started at Natasha said goodbye to the tias as they got off shift...I was trying not to cry, but it was to hard! Realizing how much she has come to mean to all of us! We went back home, had a good cry then brought her luggage back to the orphange and continued the goodbyes...I couldn't even understand what all the tias were saying as each one said goodbye to her, but I was still crying....I realized that she has made such a huge difference in their lives and that is exactly what she came here to do, she just never realized how much. She is going to be missed by so many!

When I first landed in Ecuador I was greeted by Natasha at the airport, and tonight I had to watch her get in a van and drive away....Ecuador sure wouldn't have been the same without her!

As I walked back home, all I could think of was "your gonna miss this....your gonna want this back.....your gonna wish these day's, hadn't gone by so fast". We enjoyed them while we had them, but now God is sending her back with all the memories, experiences, and heartaches and joys she had here. To made a difference where He wants her now.....

She surprised me with some junk food to help me get through the next couple of day's! :)

I'm gonna miss you Natasha, and so is Ecuador......

Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. Philippians 1:2-7

Please keep Natasha in prayer as she has a long night of traveling ahead of her, and pray for her adjustment as she settles back in at home. She is very excited to see her family and to be back home, but she is also going to miss all the children and tias and way of life here in Ecuador.  I know it will be difficult for her.