From Guatemala to the Jersey shore

mini vacation

2012-02-13T21:19:00.002-05:00

So we took a long weekend vacation (rushcation) to Lake Harmony Pa. for some family fun. The weekend was action packed with skiing, swimming, tubing and visiting family and friends. This was Carson's first time skiing. He did great! The kids were completely off their schedules however adapted very well. Fun times!

Friendship

2012-02-06T12:45:00.012-05:00

This isn't Greta Jo, this is Becca (Ella's mom, Becca Bluegrass). I want to tell you about friendship.

But let's start from the beginning.

2007I want to share a little about all of the blessings that come from adoption. I knew that adoption would make me a mother, but I never thought it would make me a friend and a sister.

**Added Note - These pictures are not in order and it is driving me absolutely INSANE, but I can't fix it. Do you see what Gret has to put up with??**

2012

In 2006 I traveled to Guatemala to bring my daughter home. I had previously experienced a failed adoption and I didn't handle it well. I didn't participate in any of the forums, groups, etc. that other people did. It made me sad to see all of the Pink announcements people were receiving and hear about the milestones for other families come and go. I know that's ugly, but it is the truth. To the ones who are still waiting, to the mothers without children in their arms, you're in my prayers.

2011

BUT all of that changed when Ella came home. I started my own blog and started reading other blogs about adoption and Guatemala. I stumbled across Gret's and felt an immediate kinship. At that time she was a single mother to Carson. I was amazed at her faith and strength. We began talking on the phone...and we began talking about what we could do to give back to the country that had delivered our prayers.

2008 We decided to meet and plan our trip back. Gret had been following Dick Rutgers/Chris & Donna Mooney/Bethel Ministries and we wanted to participate in their ministry. So, she, Jonathan and Carson traveled to Kentucky. At that time I was still married. The three of them get out of their car and they are all dressed in plaid - very different than than my family - we were all dressed in tye-dye. This continues to crack me up.

2009 We went to Guatemala in 2008. It was the first time I had ever been to Antigua and the first time I had ever been to Hermano Pedro. We all cried as we toured the facility. Bed after bed, metal crib after metal crib. After we walked out of the malnutrition ward we couldn't contain the sadness that we felt - we couldn't contain the thankfulness that we felt - our babies were home and safe with full tummies. My sister Angela prayed as we all cried. Gret and I hugged and held one another during the prayer. I loved sharing this time with her - she KNEW what it is like - she felt the SAME feelings that I felt..

2008

She shares other insecurities and anxieties with me. She and I are walking a similar path. I am so thankful that adoption brought us together as sisters to be there for one another, to love one another and to have on each other to count on. Believe me - I am quite a responsibility to have - and she takes this responsibility on without hesitation and with open arms.

2011

We fell in love with the women and children at Hermano Pedro. We traveled together again in 2009 to see our new friends. We were grateful that Carson and Ella were home, but when we look into the faces of our children we see hundreds that were left behind staring back at us. The Lord told us and continues to tell us that we are called to travel there in His name to deliver His love and I'm thankful to Bethel Ministries for giving me the chance to do this.

2009

In 2011 we traveled back. This was a different kind of trip for me. I had never been part of an organized mission trip to Guatemala before. I had only gone down there before on my own schedule. This was much different - Chris and Donna Mooney worked with Jonathan and Greta Jo to set our schedule. Man, this was much different!

2011 More people to travel with - people who didn't know me. This made me extremely nervous. I have, at times, severe anxiety that can cause me to have panic attacks. They are harmless, but very scary to experience and they embarrass me. I never would have traveled with people I don't know if Greta Jo hadn't been there to literally hold my hand through the entire time. It brought us even closer together. We talked about being an adoptive mother, we talked about going from being a family of four down to a family of two (side note - divorce sucks), we talked about how it is to go from a family of two to a family of six. We talked about physically carrying a baby and we talked about physically losing a baby. We talked about the different kinds of pain that we both experience. We talked, and we talked and we talked. And we bonded.

2011

Just a few weeks ago she asked if I could come to visit her in New Jersey. The group was getting together to show a recap of our trip at their church. I told her that I doubted I would be able to afford the time or money. She and I text and email frequently. She mentioned it several times and each time I saw nothing but barriers in front of me. I listed them in my head while wishing the whole time I would be able to go and see her, to hold her hand and to feel the love of my sister by choice.

2012 One morning I was at work sitting in my office crying like a baby. I realize that my problems are tiny compared to the load that others carry, but at that moment I was feeling the full weight and burden of all of them and it overwhelmed me so much I could barely handle it. Then Jesus stepped in. I looked up and had an email from Gret asking if she could buy my ticket. She wanted to see me. She wanted to see me so much that she would actually buy my ticket. And let me tell you - right now I am not a very giving and happy friend. She knew that I would be coming with anxieties, with burdens, with tears - and that I would be a very needy friend who might not have much to give to her in return. Knowing that someone like Gret loved me that much took me from being overwhelmed in a bad way to being overwhelmed in good ways. Her love and her generosity... I don't have the words to describe...

I got back from New Jersey yesterday afternoon. Although I am still overwhelmed and anxious and sad and mad, I don't feel the same sadness as I did last week. I feel loved. I feel loved by Gret, by Jonathan, by Shauna, by Carson and by Greta Rebecca - who happens to be the most beautiful and happy baby I have ever met! I loved getting to see the Guate 2011 team again. We all have a bond that we will forever carry with us. Isn't God good? Peace and Hugs,
Becca

still here

2012-02-05T22:00:00.002-05:00

My life has been really busy the last two weeks (more than normal). I have so much to write about however my eyes are very heavy and I still have to study.

wordless wednesday

2012-01-25T06:37:00.000-05:00

I heard there was

2012-01-24T20:28:00.002-05:00

Free gas tomorrow...

Think about it-

pointing at a random guy

2012-01-22T20:04:00.004-05:00

C: Mommy that guy must of ate a ton of food.
M: Why?
C: because he has a baby in his belly
M: What?
C: That guy has a baby in his belly because he ate to much food.

Yes, the guy did look nine months pregnant. :)

2012-01-22T09:55:00.001-05:00

Do not worry about anything
but pray about everything...

Go figure

2012-01-19T22:47:00.003-05:00

Carson came home today with a great progress report.
Our conversation:
M: How was your day at school?
C: Good. Check my folder.
M: Omie you received all check marks! Great Job!
C: yup I told you I would have a good day.
M: I am so proud of you.

Broken Record

2012-01-18T20:35:00.003-05:00

I am not sure where I am going with this post... Carson, Carson, Carson. Right now I feel like all I do is tell the poor boy to: stop it, NO, go to your room, your in time out, why did you do that, what could you have done differently, say it again a different way and the list goes on.

Carson's blue eyed little sister

2012-01-16T21:49:00.002-05:00

No RedHeads

2012-01-14T22:01:00.003-05:00

in the Miss America Pageant this year. Come on...Real RedHeads Rock!

Smart boy

2012-01-12T22:48:00.002-05:00

with a smart mouth. What the heck?!
Is it the age?
Are we doing something wrong?
The friends he is hanging out with at school?
A stage?

Wash his mouth out with soap?
Talk with him about his smart mouth?
Oh wait, I did that... I said, Carson I do not like your smart mouth. He quickly replied but I am smart Mommy. UgH!
Time out?
Punishment?
Do nothing?
Do all of the above?

Please do not tell me I'm the only one dealing with this issue.

Not even 24 hours home

2012-01-10T20:57:00.003-05:00

and my Vegas trip with my Mom is a complete fog. Around 5:15am this morning Carson came in our bedroom and said:
C: Mommy is that really you?
M: Yes Omie its me.
C: I was waiting for you all night. Oh Mommy I missed you every minute of every day of every month
M: Omie that's so nice. I missed you too!
C: yea, but I missed you so much more.
M: I think we both missed each other the same.

Now, that's a great welcome home conversation. :)

first time

2012-01-03T20:05:00.006-05:00

on Santa's lap together

Carson told Jonathan yesterday, "Daddy I'm really glad Shauna is taking jello (chello) lesson"

Later that same day Carson tells me, "Mommy, Best has a humpster (hamster) but I think it got lost"

Carson's top 10 for 2011

2011-12-31T17:11:00.002-05:00

Wow, this year went by in a flash. Carson had a wonderful year. There were many firsts for him this year which were all taken in stride. Carson continues to be soft-hearted and strong-willed. Yes, there have been a few trials with Carson this year, however nothing we could not handle together. Carson adapted very well to his little sister. He is very caring and loving with her. He continues to keep us laughing throughout the day with his silly personality.
Carson,thank you for teaching me how to love you even more this year than I already do. You make me smile whenever I think of you. You have my heart and I love calling you my son. May the Lord continue to shape and mold you into a handsome young boy. Happy New Year sweet baby boy!

10.went to his first wedding (Uncle Joey's)
9.sleeps with the light off
8.went on 'big kid' roller coasters with Best
7.received his first trophy in soccer
6.went to his first girl birthday party
5.scored his first soccer goal
4.started kindergarten
3.went on Tower of Terror (twice!)
2.stayed healthy all year
1.started reading

Not fair

2011-12-30T23:01:00.003-05:00

If you think you have it hard please read below
Justin has had an acute onset of tumor growth that led to sizable formations in his brain and bleeding there as well. The family has chosen not to intervene with medicine, as the doctors have told them there is nothing they can do to help him. He traveled back home tonight to be with his family and friends in his last days.
http://erikandkatekrull.blogspot.com/
Please pray for Justin as he is struggling during his last days on earth. Please be on your knees praying for Justin's parents as they savor the last days with their baby boy.

vegas

2011-12-29T20:56:00.002-05:00

My Mom and I are traveling to Vegas the first week of January. I'm looking forward to our trip together.

So, Carson yells from his bedroom tonight:
"Mommy, I am watching a christmas story on my kindle. I have two kindles. Kyndel my favorite dog and kindle my new gift that Santa brought me. I am so lucky Mommy."

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T22:29:00.003-05:00

We had such a blessed day. The kids were wonderful all day. Santa was very good to everyone! ;)

Are you kidding me...

2011-12-23T20:12:00.004-05:00

Please stop sending me Christmas cards that read Merry X-Mas. Seriously!
Christmas 101....Jesus Christ was born on Christmas Day. BINGO Merry CHRISTmas!

commuting

2011-12-21T21:38:00.004-05:00

We transport Carson everyday to school via car. I totally enjoy my morning commute
with him. Some mornings Carson is very talkative and other mornings he is looking out the window not saying a word.
Todays conversation:
M: Omie what are you thinking about?
C: Do not worry about it Mommy.
M: What?
C: It will hurt your feelings.
M: Just tell me what you are thinking about. I can take it.
C: No Mommy.
M: ok, fine
a few minutes later
C: Mommy,I do not want to get married.
M: Get married?
C: yea two girls want to marry me
M: Thats ok Omie.
C: But it hurts your feelings
M: why would it hurt my feelings
C: because they would be my Mommy and I love you.

Someone

2011-12-20T21:44:00.002-05:00

Tonight as I was sitting in my warm cozy home looking at the Christmas tree I was reminded- someone out there

lost their job today
does not have enough money to buy food
has a broken heart
lost a love one today
is addicted to drugs and/or alcohol
learned they have a terminal illness
lost their home
is sleeping outside tonight in the cold
is crying out for help

Please lift others up in prayer this holiday season. I challenge you to pray for someone you pass on the street today, pray for the patient you are caring for, pray for the student you just passed in the hallway, pray for the lady at the bank, pray for the people who have hurt you, pray for the homeless, pray for each other.... try to do this until Christmas day. This challenge is free and filled with rewards if its from your heart.

favorite time of the year

2011-12-19T22:16:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite times during the Christmas holidays...going shopping with my Dad to the mall. We have such a great time together. We laugh, talk and people watch during our annual mall trip. I sure do enjoy the time I spend with my Dad.
I could write forever about my Dad however I will keep it simple he the BEST!

I am not

2011-12-12T23:13:00.003-05:00

in girl love, mommy and I'm not married either. This boy...

Question:
Do you think telling your children about Santa is wrong? I would love to hear your feed back.

This boy...

2011-12-05T20:09:00.003-05:00

Carson said...
Mommy if that lady would go to the dentist she would not have black teeth.
Daddy I am not going to bed. I am going to call 911 and tell them I am not going to bed.
Did you know the big kids in school think I am cool?
The dentist said to Carson "how old are you?" he replied, "I think I am still five."
Mommy will Kyndel (our dog) go away to college one day?
Mommy if you do not circle things in the toy r us book you will not get presents.

Wondering

2011-12-04T19:03:00.011-05:00

When I look into Carson's big brown chocolate eyes sometimes I wonder:
Would he be going to bed hungry tonight?
Would he be working in the fields or shining shoes at 5 yrs old?
Would his shoes be to small and falling apart?
Would he have shoes?
Would his clothes be to small?
Would his face be dirty?
Would he be running around with the other boys playing football(soccer)?
Would his hand be out asking for money or food from the tourist who walk is through central park?
Would he have a sponsor so he could attend school?
Would he be cold?
Would he want to drink a clean glass of water?
Would he be living in a 10 by 10 with his family?
What would his teeth look like?
Would he sleep on the ground or a hard piece of wood?

In a nutshell

2011-12-01T19:48:00.003-05:00

Here is a list of things that sum me up fairly well:

I am passionate about many things…my husband, my God, my family, my friends, my horses
I love my family.
If I tell you I love you its because I do…I don’t give lip service to anyone
I’m not afraid of confrontation…I think people avoid it way too much
I love having REAL conversations…however I have learned not to wear my heart on my sleeve.
I’m not dramatic.
I do not forgive easily ( I'm still working on this)
I’m not afraid of much…
I think nice things about people more than bad things…and I wish more people were like that.
People either hate me or love me…and I’m OK with that. Actually I like it this way.
I hate when people act like they are all that…yeah
I’m always the one to give…not the one to receive. Sometimes that gets old
If I ask you how you are doing, I really want to know. I don't like it when people say I'm fine and they are obviously lying.
I can be your best friend or your worst enemy.
I am not much for small talk.
I watch people very closely.
I am usually right about people.
It does not take me long to figure people out.
I do not want anymore regrets in my life.
I am a strong believer in... what comes around goes around!

fun times

2011-11-29T20:40:00.002-05:00

eyes and smile

2011-11-18T18:55:00.001-05:00

Deep stuff

2011-11-17T07:24:00.001-05:00

A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions.
Proverbs 18.2

Take your time and think about the above.... It's so true!

National Adoption Month

2011-11-15T21:39:00.003-05:00

“And whoever welcomes a little child like this, receives me.” - Matthew 18:5
“In you alone, the orphans find compassion.” - Hosea 14:4

Carson brought a whole new meaning to my life when we became a family through adoption.

To move or not to move

2011-11-13T21:01:00.006-05:00

Yes, our home is still for sale. I know, I know, I know.... the market stinks!
Do we rent our home and move?
Do we stay put for another year and ride out the market?
Do we lower the price and take a hit?
Do just move and say, heck with it?
Do we add onto our home?

The bigger issue is... do we build the new home or move to Guatemala?
Well, Jonathan and I are both praying about the above-
Time will tell :)

To all

2011-11-11T22:13:00.002-05:00

the veterans (my Dad being one of them), Thank You!

wordless wednesday

2011-11-09T06:38:00.000-05:00

Who are you talking to?

2011-11-08T20:07:00.002-05:00

I heard Carson talking in bed tonight. I asked him "who are you talking to"? He quickly replied "Jesus"! I stood at his door for a minute and he said, "Mommy, I am asking Jesus why the whale ate Johnny"?

An hour later, Carson is still talking. Once again, I asked him "who are you talking to now"? He replied "still Jesus,Mommy. I want to know how he got his powers".

asking, it's a banana

2011-11-07T20:31:00.004-05:00

-Have you ever asked someone to do something for you and right away they go into what they have to do? It gets on my nerves! However, when they need me to do something, I have to be willing and able- really?!

-Why are people so self-centered and self-absorbed but claim to be a christian?

-Why are people willing to travel thousands of millions to help others but do not help their own family unless asked?

conversation tonight:

Carson: I have to go to the bathroom.
Me: Ok, the light is on.
Carson: Mommy can you come here?
Me: ok, in a minute
Carson: Mommy hurry a brown banana came out of my body
Me: No, I do not think so
Carson: Well it sure does look like it.

Carson's first trophy

2011-11-02T21:10:00.003-04:00

A 5 year-old conviction

2011-11-01T19:12:00.002-04:00

Lately we've been teaching Carson why stealing is wrong. He was involved in an incident at school recently where some matchbox cars that didn't belong to him ended up in his pocket. Normally, Carson says that "school is stupid" so we tried to reverse his thinking and explain that school is cool that stealing is stupid and "not cool". Well, today on the way home from school, Carson noticed some bags of toys in the back seat. He recognized that the toys were ones from his toybox and his room. He asked Jonathan why his toys were in the bags so Jonathan explained that these were toys he didn't really play with anymore and there were many children who didn't have any toys. Carson thought about it for a few minutes then said to Jonathan, "But Dad, that's stealing". Jonathan had to hold back the laughter and explain that it wasn't stealing. When Jonathan told me about it, I had to laugh because I never did ask Carson if I could take his toys so I suppose in some sense he was right.

Then today while Jonathan was working Carson came into the room and picked up my bible and starting pretending to read from it. Jonathan said all of a sudden Carson made the statement, "slow obedience is no obedience". Jonathan had to do a double-take and then asked Carson where he heard that. Carson said his teacher at school told it to him. Jonathan and I were both impressed with what the teacher is teaching as well as the fact that he remembered what the teacher said. We were also both convicted by what the statement means for each of us.

Trying to keep the home clean?!

2011-10-30T15:56:00.001-04:00

October 26, 2011, 8:23 pm
Neglected Children, Messy Houses and Guilt
By JENNY ANDERSON

In case you missed it, the Working Mother Research Institute surveyed 3,781 women and issued a report called “What Moms Choose.” It quantifies a lot of things we know, and a few that we don’t. Here are a few statistics to throw out over dinner, if you belong to one of those families who have civilized, discussion-based dinners (I tell myself that will happen when the children are older):

•55 percent of career-oriented stay-at-home mothers would prefer to be working
•71 percent of mothers equate work with something done only to pick up a paycheck

•51 percent of working mothers feel guilty about not spending enough time with their children
•55 percent of working mothers feel guilt about the untidiness of their house

•55 percent of stay-at-home-mothers feel guilty for not contributing to family income
•44 percent of stay-at-home moms feel guilt about the untidiness of their house

Guilt and tidiness seem to be pretty powerful themes here. And there’s more on both:
•49 percent of working mothers and 47 percent of stay-at-home-mothers agreed with the statement, “I am my worst critic”

And finally,

Working mothers feel most judged about
1) How clean my house is
2) Not taking care of myself
3) The amount of time I spend with my children

Stay-at-home mothers feel most judged about
1) My contribution to family income
2) How clean my house is
3) Not using my education

It’s kind of impossible not to notice the weird emphasis on cleaning here. Why do both sets of mothers feel so much guilt about the house? Is it because they want a clean house or because they think they should have a clean house? My house is clean-ish, but cluttered, which drives me crazy, but doesn’t make me feel guilty (perhaps because I blame it on my husband, whose reluctance to throw away anything should be studied by anthropologists).

Is this a vestige of the 1950s, where women greeted men with cocktails, a warm meal and a meticulous home (oh, if my husband could only go back. In lieu of a highball he gets: “Bathe a kid! Cook some beans! Read ‘Ladybug Girl’ 22 times, and then once more!”).

On the guilt theme, I guess I shouldn’t be too surprised. It is the working mother report from the Working Mother Research Institute. But I can’t help but wonder, would the working dad institute ask whether fathers feel guilty about the cleanliness of their homes?

Random photos of our vacation

2011-10-30T15:17:00.003-04:00

Is your water clean?

2011-10-29T15:06:00.001-04:00

Today, nearly one billion people (about 1in 8) lack access to clean water. More than 3.5 million die each year from water-related disease; 84% are children. Lack of access to clean water and sanitation kills at a rate equal to a jumbo jet full of kids every 4 hours. $25 can supply a person with clean water for life. The more people know the more we can make a difference. If you see this, and like it please copy and paste to another vid and give any amount you can.
Water.org

check out the link below. The water bottle would make a great christmas gift as well as helping others.
http://www.waterdropsofhope.com/

These two...

2011-10-18T21:49:00.001-04:00

Nada

2011-10-17T21:51:00.002-04:00

I have so much to write about however I am not in the mood. In a nutshell without all the details:

My sister and I took my parents out to dinner for their anniversary.

Carson did very well on his progress report.

Shauna is rehearsing for the school play. She has one of the lead roles.

We are flying to Florida this week.

We had a really great time at the fall party this weekend (thanks mom and dad).

Why do people love drama? It makes me ill-

We leased out one of our horses. The barn seems different without her.

I only have a two more gifts to buy for Christmas.

Have you ever listened to the way some people talk to others? Holy Cow! People can be rude and nasty.

I work with someone who always looks for the negative in others. what did they do wrong? what did they miss? What didn't they do? get the point. YUCK!

Cinderella is great! We are so in love with her :)

I'm scheduled for a second phone interview tomorrow night however I think I am going to decline the position.

I have to remember our wedding anniversary is next week('something' is this Friday but I am not sure what). I am awful with dates.

I dislike Halloween! Thank God for Best. She loves taking Carson out for Halloween.

Fiesta

2011-10-12T22:00:00.004-04:00

Last weekend Jonathan and I visited New Mexico. We went to the fiesta for hot air balloons. Wow, was that pretty neat! Hundreds of balloons flying in the sky at one time- If you wanted to pay $400.00 pp you could take a hour ride in a balloon. No, Thanks!
Can you believe some of the balloons cost over $150,000.00?

8 eyes

2011-10-11T20:43:00.002-04:00

I walked into the living room and this is what I saw...

The culprit-caught leaving the scene

wordless wednesday

2011-10-05T19:57:00.000-04:00

Is it fall or winter?

2011-10-04T21:54:00.003-04:00

We have the heat on in the house.
I am driving with my seat warmer on.
I am warming the truck up before we leave in the morning.
We added extra blankets to the beds in the house.
My horse is starting to get his winter coat.
I am already starting to get the winter blues...

For Christmas this year

2011-10-03T20:54:00.007-04:00

Carson is asking for (get ready) a cell phone, a flat t.v (as he calls it), batman and star war lego's, audio stories, a bigger guitar, odd pod(i-pod)touch.

what the heck is he going to ask for when he is 10?

I could see my breath tonight

2011-10-02T22:06:00.002-04:00

As I was mowing the grass tonight I could see my breath. What the heck happened? Why did it get so cold so quickly? I am not ready for cold weather... Have I ever written how much I dislike it? When Carson is cold he usually says, "mommy can you turn up the sun?"

Monster Jam

2011-10-02T08:46:00.003-04:00

Tracey and Carson went to Monster Jam in Wildwood Saturday. This is an annual tradition for the two of them. Carson looks forward to it every year. Below is Carson's thank you note to Tracey (Best).

Dear Best,
I really thank you for taking me to monster trucks. The pizza was really good. Remember the little guy was going in the little path but his truck was going to slow. That was really funny. Maybe one day I will kiss you on the lips.
I miss Best. See you at 30 o'clock.

It will never be the same...

2011-09-29T19:15:00.003-04:00

10 years ago today has left me jaded.

It's hot

2011-09-28T21:27:00.003-04:00

Tonight Carson and I were coloring together. I asked him to pass me the hot pink colored pencil. He looked at me and replied, "Mommy, I can not give you something that is hot. It will burn you."

Carson and Sophia

2011-09-27T20:42:00.002-04:00

Carson and Sophia have been friends for a few years. They loved going to the Ocean City boardwalk together this summer.

exciting news...

2011-09-25T19:12:00.004-04:00

Carson scored the winning goal Saturday in soccer. This was his first goal of the year. Sorry, I forgot my camera-

Guatemala Mission Trip recap

2011-09-24T09:00:00.001-04:00

Guatemala Mission Trip-To God be the Glory

In the early morning hours of 03August, a team of 16 willing volunteers met at the Atlantic City Airport to begin their journey to the wonderful country of Guatemala. For some members of the group this was their first time traveling outside of the US as well as their first mission trip. For others, this would be a return to the place they grew to love during the mission trip there a year ago. For everyone, this represented a step of faith in obedience to the call God has given to serve others in need. Despite the gloomy forecast calling for many rainy days, the weather was dry and beautiful for the entire week which allowed the team to accomplish more work than originally planned. Upon arrival, the team was met by Chris Mooney and Dick Rutgers of Bethel Ministries International as well as a 17th team member, Becca from Kentucky, a long-time friend of mine (who I met through blogging). The team loaded up 2 large vans and headed to the beautiful city of Antigua. The team spent the first few days at the Hermano Pedro orphanage and medical clinic. For everyone, especially those that had never been there before, this proved to be an intense emotional experience as they witnessed firsthand many young children and teenagers suffering from muscular dystrophy, muscular dystrophy, or cerebral palsy. As one team member put it, “this was a game-changer for me.” You see, when you hold a child who can barely move and can only communicate with her eyes, make some guttural noises, and smile, it impacts you in a very deep way. Within minutes of arriving, Chris Mooney placed a child into the arms of each team member. This proved invaluable as it pushed many of us out of our comfort zone and prevented us from giving in to the fear of the unknown. As the day progressed, the team continued to minister to the children as God ministered to the team. By the end of the second day, it was amazingly clear the team members had grown fond of these precious kids/teens and were reluctant to say good-bye.
Subsequent to our visit to the orphanage, over the course of the rest of the week the team moved on to complete the construction of 3 homes in Chimaltenango, distribute food to 12 families, and in Chichicastenango fit/distribute over 50 wheelchairs to adult and children who, prior to receiving a wheelchair, had to be carried from place to place by friends and loved ones.
The week ended with the team giving a monetary gift to Chris and Donna Mooney totaling nearly $3000 which represented excess funds that were raised prior to the trip. The team had identified some specific needs throughout the week and asked that the additional love offering be used to address those needs. These included:
• Food sponsorship for the 3 families for whom we built a home (est. $480 per family= $1440 total)
• Education sponsorship for 2 of the 5 kids from the 3rd home we completed (the mother has AIDS) (est. $25/child or $300/year = $600 total)
• $500 towards a water connection for a family in Tecpan to whom we distributed food and whose father had some significant medical needs.
• 2 tires for the truck used for wheelchair distribution (est. $400)

Overall each member of the team was stretched and tested physically, emotionally, and spiritually and returned home with new understanding and appreciation for how blessed we are to serve such a mighty, loving God.

Mark 10:45:[Soft Break]45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

The head cold

2011-09-23T17:06:00.000-04:00

is going around our home and its my turn. UGH!

Happy Birthday Best!

2011-09-21T09:35:00.003-04:00

Today is my sister's birthday.
This note is from Carson as you call him Handsome...

Best,
Happy Birthday. Do not work to hard on your homework. Make sure you remember your bible verse for tomorrow. Maybe we can go to Pizza Hut for your holiday. I love you too, Best. I have a few lego's to share with you. I will bring them over in 50 seconds. Oh, and thanks for taking me on the ride that goes around in circles really fast last Thursday.

The above is from the lips of Carson to you Best on your special day.
Thanks for being a 'great' sister. Have a wonderful birthday :) I love you!

I love this boy.

2011-09-21T09:28:00.001-04:00

fat flat

2011-09-18T21:22:00.002-04:00

Tonight at dinner Carson asked Jonathan
Carson: "Is this fat flat?"
Jonathan: "what?"
Carson: pulls a small piece of steak out of his mouth and says again "Is this fat flat?"
Jonathan: "what is fat flat?"
Carson: "you know that chewy stuff?"
Jonathan: "do you mean fat?"
Carson: "No Daddy, Mommy calls it fat flat?"

Try saying Fat flat 10 times. haha!

week two of the private christian school

2011-09-14T20:46:00.003-04:00

It's the second full week of Kindergarten and Carson is still loving it- He gets up and dressed in the morning without a fuss. He does his 'homework' when he comes home from school and is eager to keep learning. Carson tells some of the funniest stories about his day. Yesterday he said they were playing the game rocket (rocks), planes (paper), scissors. lol
He went on to tell me about a girl who thinks he is cute but he does not like her because he has a girlfriend. Really?!
There are 5 students in his class 2 boys and 3 girls. Carson is really getting a lot of one on one attention from his teacher. So far I am very pleased with the school.

I am not really feeling

2011-09-13T21:11:00.003-04:00

"it" right now...
what is "it"

people
work
cleaning the house (it is clean)
driving
listening to music (which I love)
keeping my friendships going
dealing with drama
people's feelings
people trying to suck the life out of me
lazy people
planning our upcoming trips

I just want to love on my children all day....

wordless wednesday

2011-09-07T20:52:00.002-04:00

first day of school photos

2011-09-06T21:22:00.002-04:00

Carson did not say much about his first day of school. However he kept talking about everyone in his class (all 5 of them) wishing him a Happy Birthday. Carson thinks when someone says, Happy Birthday to him, he needs to reply Happy Birthday to you too.
At dinner tonight, Carson said a beautiful prayer it went like this-
Dear God,
Thank you for the air and the birds. Thank you for all my toys and please oh please give toys to other kids. God please help baby Cinderella sleep tonight and do not make her sick. Please God, Please God help me with my homework and Thank you for the food.
Amen from Carson

A milestone and a birthday

2011-09-06T06:44:00.002-04:00

Carson,

Today is an exciting day for you and a sad day for me as you start Kindergarten. Carson, school is going to go by so quickly. I know it may not seem like it because of all the homework, test, projects and peer pressure; however, I really want you to enjoy school and take one day at a time. I also know there will be life choices that you will face that will not be easy to handle. I pray you will do your best to make the right decisions, seek God for answers and keep the lines of communication open between us. Remember, keep your head up, ask questions, get involved and be polite. Have a great year!

Not only are you starting kindergarten you are turning 5 years old today. Carson, I cannot believe 5 years has gone by already (minus eight months). You are an unbelievable tender-hearted boy. This past year you have matured so much. I am so proud to be your Mommy. I think about you all the time when we are not together. You make me laugh so hard with the things you do and say. You can bring tears to my eyes in a matter of seconds when I just think about you. Carson, I can never express how much you mean to me. I love our little sayings….

I say to you …”Be that..” and you reply “special boy”.

I say to you… “Best Buddies..” and you reply “forever”.

We give each other thumbs up meaning everything is OK.

Happy 5th Birthday sweet baby boy! I love you!

what is starting tomorrow ?

2011-09-05T22:56:00.004-04:00

Carson
had a new hair cut
took a shower
finger nails are clipped and clean
clothes are picked out
lunch is packed
book bag is filled with supplies
not really asking to many questions
in bed by 8:00pm asleep by 8:10pm

From the back seat

2011-09-04T20:42:00.002-04:00

Tonight as we were driving home from the horse stable Carson was singing... I hoe rock in roll, I hoe rock in roll"
The conversation:
M: Where did you hear that song?
C: Best was playing it in her car
M: Oh really
C: Yea, Best loves I hoe rock in roll
M: carson it's I love rock in roll
C: No, in Best car it's I hoe rock in roll
M: Oh...I see :)

shopping in Delaware

2011-09-03T22:04:00.002-04:00

Fun day of shopping...Shauna and I took the Cape May Lewis Ferry to Delaware to shop at the outlets. We 'scored' some really great deals. We enjoyed the day as we had plenty of laughs, told stories and carried tons of shopping bags back to the car.

Jonathan, Carson and Cinderella enjoyed the beautiful day at a birthday party for Caleb. Carson was so excited to tell me about the picklota (pinata) at Caleb's party.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T21:56:00.001-04:00

Where did

2011-08-30T21:05:00.001-04:00

August go? Wait! Where the heck did the summer go?

Crazy hours

2011-08-30T00:08:00.002-04:00

I have worked crazy hours (12-16 hour days) since Thursday due to evacuating the entire nursing facility. Praise God "Irene" brought us high winds and rain for two days. We are so lucky. However, I am really missing my children and family....

I leave the house in the morning and they are asleep-
I get home at night and they are asleep-

I called home the other day to talk with Carson:
Me: Hey Carson, how are you?
Carson: Mommy, is that really you?
Me: Yes, its me
Carson: how is your trip going? are you safe?
Me: Yes, honey I am ok
Carson: Mommy, I really miss you, please wear your seat belt.
Me: Ok, I will
Carson: If you do not wear your seat belt you will get a time out for 5 minutes. 5 minutes because you are 5 years old, Mommy.

I thought

2011-08-24T22:16:00.002-04:00

I saw you today....
I heard our song....
I heard your 'walk' down the hallway....
I heard your laugh as I was passing by....
you wanted to come back to church....
I smelled your scent....
someone said you were on the phone for me....
I heard your voice....
we could get our favorite ice cream at the custard hut....
someone was wearing your favorite jeans....
I received a letter saying you were sorry....
you invited me out to our favorite place to play arcade games....
you wanted to meet Carson and Cinderella....
I saw your phone number on my cell phone....
you just passed me on the road....
you wanted to see me....

wordless wednesday

2011-08-24T22:12:00.001-04:00

What do you think is she my

2011-08-23T22:20:00.003-04:00

daughter
sister
niece
cousin
friends daughter
just a random little redhead
?

wordless wednesday

2011-08-17T20:36:00.000-04:00

When I grow up...

2011-08-16T00:01:00.002-04:00

I want to be a

baseball player
nurse/doctor
and
a golfer.

Mommy, Can I be all those characters?

Left to die or left for help

2011-08-15T21:00:00.014-04:00

I had the privilege of meeting 21 day old "Marie" who was wrapped in a towel and left on the streets of Guatemala. Once she was found, she spent five days in a local hospital were she was diagnosed with hydrocephalus (water on the brain). "Marie" will have surgery next month to remove most of the water on her brain. The physicians have high hopes that she will be 'normal' once her surgery is complete. In the mean time she will live in an orphanage located outside of Guatemala City. Since "Marie" has not been recognized/claimed by any family members she will spend the rest of her life in an orphanage after her surgery. She will not be adoptable as she will be awarded to Guatemala.
As I looked at this beautiful baby my thoughts grew weary and my heart was heavy. My thoughts were two fold, how does this beautiful baby feel and what was the person thinking who left this child on the streets of Guatemala? While I wonder, make up stories in my mind and pray the only one who knows the truth is our heavenly father.

lots of laughs

2011-08-14T22:51:00.003-04:00

Carson says to Cinderella- "how much is the baby?" "so big"

Mommy I am going to hand-cup you.

Carson can I have a kiss? No Mommy, keep your lips for Daddy.

Mommy, Are you a ward (war) hater?

Carson would you like some ham? Yea, I will have 15 pounds of it.

Email received and photo review

2011-08-14T21:19:00.005-04:00

Dear Jonathan GretaJo and Group
I want to thank you for all that was accomplished while you were here. Each and everyone of you played such an important part of what God wanted for the the days spent here in Guatemala. Your faithfulness to him has allowed so many to be blessed- they smiled and laughed with us, they played with us and worked. Their lives were filled with your presence, and most of all with His. As you think back over this trip I pray that the faces of those that you came in contact with, those that you shared joy with, will always be imprinted in your mind and heart that you will remember them in your prayers as I know they are remembering you.
Let us always remember that all this was made possible by God's grace and that His grace was and is and will be sufficient for us each time we step out of our comfort zone to do mighty exploits in His Name.
I love each one you and I can see what you bring to His Kingdom. Thank you for coming, thank you for laying your life down and taking up His.

I hope your trip home went ok!
We hope you'll want to come back! It would be great to confirm that as soon as possible.

Lord Bless you all!
Chris, Donna and all those of the Bethel team
P.s. Please forward to those of the group, or if possible, we'd love the emails addresses to be able to stay in touch personally as well. Thanks.
Christopher and Donna Mooney
Directors
Bethel Ministries International
Chimaltenango, Guatemala
cell: 011 502 5826-5320
t/fax: 011 502 7839-1513
headquarters@bethelministriesinternational.com
www.bethelministriesinternational.com

More stories and pictures to come regarding our trip to Guatemala

The Guatemala mission team is home

2011-08-11T18:49:00.003-04:00

There is so much to write about however I need to get my house in order first.

The employer

2011-07-31T21:46:00.003-04:00

While I was driving to pick up Shauna the other night I was having a conversation with the Lord about my struggles and fears regarding our upcoming trip to Guatemala. Yes, I have been there numerous times however not one trip has been the same. My heart has been broken and changed on every trip in different ways. But this time, I am struggling in ways I can not put into words. So, during the conversation the Lord revealed to me....Greta Jo, You applied for the job. I am your employer. You went through a series of interviews. I read over your resume' and you fit the job description. I offered you the job and you accepted it. Now go to work and if you have questions or need guidance seek and he shall find, ask and it will be answered, knock and I will answer. Well, my first day is August 3 at 4:30am, I am packed and ready to work for the Lord.

I love

2011-07-29T06:39:00.000-04:00

a good early morning rain.

wordless wednesday

2011-07-27T06:33:00.001-04:00

Greta Rebecca

Borders- happiness vs holiness

2011-07-25T22:12:00.005-04:00

Jonathan and I went on quick dates to Borders bookstore for years. We loved to get a cup of coffee and walk around the store gathering books. We would skim the books at the table as we drank our coffee. Most of the time we would go our seperate ways in the store and meet back at the table with very similar books. We were very comfortable with short conversations regarding what we were reading. I also enjoyed sitting at the table and people watching. Those days are coming to an end as our local Borders store is closing. I will truly miss frequenting Borders with Jonathan.

I am struggling right now with happiness vs holiness. I am trying to understand the difference as a Christian. My prayer lately is that happiness vs holiness would be revealed to me. Does anyone else struggle in this area? Can someone please give me their view on the differences between the two?

Guitar player

2011-07-24T21:21:00.002-04:00

Oh my sweet boy loves to play his guitar.

wordless wednesday

2011-07-20T22:51:00.000-04:00

heartbreaking and meltdowns

2011-07-20T21:34:00.007-04:00

Well, I started back to work today. I put on a good show however my heart was missing my children. I wanted to be with them all day. I had their cute little smiles in my mind as people were talking to me. There were many times today when I would be listening to people however my mind was focused on the children. I know this will pass with time but for now its an adjustment. I remember the first time I dropped Carson off at the daycare. I had to pull off the road as I was crying so hard. As I have mentioned before I am only working three full days during the week for a few months until my FMLA expires.
Carson has bible camp all week. He is loving it. However he is coming home very, very tired and having full meltdowns over everything. He is getting so dark this summer. We apply SPF 100 on him and he is still tans.
Greta Rebecca will be seven weeks old tomorrow. She is 9lbs 20 ozs and 21 inches long. Wow, my girl is growing... She is tracking people and objects with her eyes. Her smile lights up her cute face. She is making all types of cute sounds. Everyone is so in love with her.

Back to work already...

2011-07-19T21:55:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow I am going back to work. I can not believe how fast eight weeks went. What the heck?

loving my blue eyed girl

2011-07-18T13:08:00.000-04:00

Pure cuteness

2011-07-17T11:41:00.000-04:00

funny

2011-07-16T21:19:00.003-04:00

Tonight we had white pizza with spinach
Carson: Mommy this is good but I do not like seaweed on my pizza.
Me: Honey its not seaweed its Spinach
Carson: Well, its seaweed and it needs to stay on the beach.

Pool conversations:
Carson: Mommy the pool is jealous
Me: Carson the pool is jealous?
Carson: Yea Mommy feel it.
I still do not know what he is referring to...

Dinner conversation
Me: Carson it's time for dinner
Carson: What's for dinner?
Me: Pasta and salad
Carson: I do not like salad
Me: Honey, you loved it the other night
Carson: No I am it

Kiss Cinderella
Carson: Mommy I just kissed Cinderella on the lips
Me: That was nice of you
Carson: Oh it was gross.
Me: Why was it gross?
Carson: because she is my sister and has girl lips

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-13T11:34:00.002-04:00

Can I please....

2011-07-11T14:11:00.003-04:00

play football this year?

can not sleep

2011-07-11T14:00:00.004-04:00

The dog in
The dog out

Checked on the kids

Turned off the alarm clock

checked emails

fed the baby x2

checked on the kids again

turned on the tv
turned off the tv

packed Carson's lunch

did a few loads of wash

folded the wash

looked out the window...wondering why I can not sleep

praying to fall asleep

back in bed

back out of bed

The dog in
The dog out

and you are sound asleep....

another busy weekend

2011-07-10T21:52:00.005-04:00

boarwalk, swimming, baby shower, watching Noah at football camp, sleeping (in Carson's old swing), shopping, etc...

finished my post graduate course

2011-07-09T18:09:00.003-04:00

with an A. I am going to take a few weeks off before starting the next course. For the past few nights Carson was saying... Mommy when is "our project due"? I pray he is a good (if not great) student.

Getting my bags ready.....

2011-07-08T21:32:00.001-04:00

we are leaving for Guatemala the first week of August (lots to pack). Carson and Cinderella are staying with my parents and Best.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-06T17:04:00.002-04:00

Carson's Cinderella

2011-06-28T21:58:00.000-04:00

This is how I feel....

2011-06-27T12:56:00.000-04:00

Busy weekend

2011-06-26T19:48:00.006-04:00

Friday afternoon Best, Carson and I went to see Cars 2 at the movie theater. Carson did not move for two hours. His eyes were glued to the big screen. He loved it! However, I on the other hand could not sit still the last half hour. After the movie we went to Red Robin for a late lunch. Carson was not very hungry as he ate a small bag of buttered popcorn during the movie.
Saturday we had a family trip planned to Sesame Place. It was a LONG/HOT day! Carson had a great time on the rides along with playing at the water park for hours.
Sunday we hung at the house as Ms. Cinderella still is not sleeping through the night. However, Carson and I did go to the pool in the afternoon while Jonathan and Cinderella napped.

walk on the boardwalk

2011-06-22T15:08:00.003-04:00

Today Carson and I had some one on one time together (greatly needed). So, we decided to take a walk on the Sea Isle Boardwalk (ice cream, pizza, a little arcade). Well, of course its summer time and there are a ton of beautiful people walking the boardwalk in the bathing suites. Anyway, two girls walked by us and Carson said- Mommy, why are the girls wearing their underwear and beers on the boardwalk? I replied, No honey, they are wearing their bathing suites. He quickly replied--- NO Mommy, they are wearing their underwear and beers. He followed up his sentence with "That's GROSS"!
No need to correct him :)