Here we are...thousands of miles from home!

Hello from Cebu, Philippines. What a journey it has been so far. We are well, loving the weather and the people. Each day is a fascinating new journey with adventures around every corner.

Cebu is a metropolis...4.5 million people; all, it seems, going somewhere at the same time! Lot's of people walking, taking taxi's, riding in vehicles called something like 'jeepknees' (spelled wrong but you get the idea). It's really a extended cab van, open on the side with two benches on each side for about 12-14 people to squeeze into but a lot more try to get in. We haven't ridden in one here, yet! There are also private vehicles, too! Put it this way...it's very busy.

We are enjoying ministry; that's also been very exciting. We just finished our time at Immanuel Bible College, speaking at the chapels. You can find more info on our ministry at: http://www.billjuonifreshfire.com

We have really enjoyed meeting all the pastors, students, and others here. It's so much fun to interact with them and find out there are really fun people across the ocean, too.

A local pastor was cracking jokes about different types of food available to eat; many I won't mention because they are truly gross! A very funny joke he told us that involves dogs; you'll have to remember to ask me about some time!

It was kind of funny on Sunday at a local church; wonderful ministry, great people...the church is growing and expanding it's building; it's just not done all the way yet. Anyway, there were several cats wondering through the sanctuary, across the back of the platform, and generally nosing around like cats do. I told Bill later that I was sure at least two were at the altar...getting saved!

It's been a wonderful trip so far and we are praising our Father for giving us this great opportunity to be here. Love to you all...

On our way...to Southeast Asia

It's time; I can't believe it! We're almost ready...tomorrow evening our plane leaves at approximately 8 pm. We are scurrying around buying last minute items, snacks for the plane trip, and some for when we are there. Getting some items for the missionary we'll be working with, Joanne Oftedahl.

We'll be there through December 14: preaching, teaching, and overall helping where needed. Bill will be using his God-given ability to minister to ministers, students, and church people. I'll be there, using my abilities, wherever!

It's suppose to be a very beautiful area [Cebu City] with wonderful temps and perfect conditions. It may rain, but I think we can handle that.

We will miss everyone in the States; especially our kids and their families. Even though it's only two weeks it seems like a lot longer, I think, because we'll be so far away. They'll be okay...we're leaving them in the Father's hands!

This past weekend we preached at my home church; the same church my Mom attends. We were able to spend some time with her which was a great blessing, considering we're going to be pretty far away for awhile!

We don't know what our Internet connection will be, but I'll try to stay in touch. You can reach us at: bemuju2003@yahoo.com or friend me on Facebook!

Next stop...Philippines!

First I want to let you know that our 8 day revival in Farmington, Il was fantastic. The people were (and are) so warm and friendly; they made us feel a part of their family immediately. And the services were excellent; the presence of our Lord was so evident...we truly thank Him for the great things that happened that week and will continue to happen.

Now to the Philippines! Yes, we're leaving next Tuesday and will be gone for 2 weeks returning home December 14. We'll be staying and working with our missionary friend from the Minnesota District (Assemblies of God) Joanne Oftedahl. Bill will be teaching in the local Bible school, speaking to the local pastors, and preaching in the churches. I'll be there to support him and do whatever else may be needed.

This will be our third trip to the Philippines but to a different area. We'll be flying from Chicago, to China, to Manila, to Cebu City. (I looked up some info on the WEB to get some facts about Cebu from http://www.cebu-philippines.net/.)

Cebu City located in the central part of the Visayas island group. It is one of the highly urbanized cities in this island group. It was in the province of Cebu that Ferdinand Magellan first set foot on Philippine soil back in 1521. The temps should be in the upper 80's during the day and upper 70's at night; could have some storms, too!

Sounds like Wisconsin in the summer...yes! We'll be enjoying balmy weather for awhile as we minister to these precious people!

It will be a journey filled with excitement, flexability (to possible schedule adjustments), seeing what our Father has in store, and getting to fellowship with the true hero's of the faith...missionaries.

I'll 'try' to keep in contact here or through Facebook [http://facebook.com/beth.m.juoni]. Please remember to pray for us that we'll be totally lead by the Father and in His perfect will.

If you are interested in helping us go to the Philippines of friend of mine is giving us part of her proceeds from sales through Avon & Tastefully Simple. Her information is below...thanks Brenda.

Now to planning, prepping, and packing...and that's just this week! Have a great Thanksgiving! We have so much to be thankful for in our lives!

INFO FOR FUNDRAISER:
Brenda Bradl
 www.youravon.com/bbradl
http://www.tastefullysimple.com/
felixtroll2@yahoo.com
920-242-7148

Each one is unique!

We've been very busy these last couple of weeks. In and out, coming and going... and we have truly enjoyed every minute.

It is what our Father has assigned us to and we are following to the best of our abilities. Each Sunday (some times more) we are in a different city, at a different church, with different pastors, and different people.

Each church is unique; and we fit in to this uniqueness as the Holy Spirit guides us and as the pastor asks us. The only agenda we arrive with is 'how can we be of help and encouragement to you'.

It's our joy to come and serve; be of help; get to know the pastor and their spouse; and interact with the people. Whether it's in a church service, Sunday school class, a seminar Bill is teaching, or an event I might be asked to speak at--we become a part of their church family...it's a great connection this family of God!!!

Our next assignment will be truly unique. We are going to be at a church in Illinois from a Sunday to a Sunday! A full week, plus! I know it'll be great!

Also coming up will be our next missions trip to Cebu City, Philippines. We'll be leaving the end of November for a two-week trip.

I'll let you know how our ministry in Illinois is going and later more about our trip to Cebu City.

The Wonder of It All!

Just a few ramblings here...not sure if it will flow or not, but it's what I've been thinking about lately.

If you are from the northern part of the U.S. you have been experiencing the season's change. Right now where we live there is still a lot of green, but there are also a lot of trees changing colors. It's beautiful...some areas are so beyond description. The news channels have been saying that northern Wisconsin's leaves have all fallen, but our part of the state is gorgeous. Reds, yellows, greens, darker reds...a feast for the eyes. One of the many wonderful reasons to live here.

Of course, as we all know it's also the sports season. Some have joked that there are really two seasons in WI--winter & football. I must admit I love to watch a good game on TV, but will from time to time turn the channel to see if something else is on; but when the team is winning I'm there. We have also been enjoying watching our grandkids games; either football or volleyball. It's much better watching a game in person. We haven't had the opportunity to see a professional game of any type yet, maybe next year.

And we also know that as this season changes, the colors will fade and winter will come. That's okay, too! Who am I to argue with the way things are in nature. Some smart person would tell me that the earth needs to rest for it's awakening next spring; fine with me. As some of you know we spend about three months in Florida during the winter so it doesn't seem to be too long when we get home, just in time for spring.

I guess the wonder of it all is that there is normalness to the seasonal changes. Many have said the weather has been strange, and yet the earth still turns, the sun shines, and the sky is blue. The trees lose their colorful leaves, the snows come and blanket the earth to protect it from the cold, then new life springs forth and we have summer. A flow, a constant, something we can rely on; now that's a true wonder!

I have the wierdest life...in a good way!

Really, I do have a wierd life. Maybe an 'interesting' or 'different' life would be a way of saying it better. Let me explain...

On our travels we meet a lot of interesting and fun people. Every place we go it's such a joy to interact with all kinds of folk; from the midwest, south, east, or west; overseas...whatever. Each place and person is unique and we love it.

Lot's of times when we are in conversation with people we find that we know people they know. That makes the world very small in some ways. Often I've said [not that we would] that we can't talk about anyone because the person you are talking to probably knows them!!!

So, how is my life wierd? It's in the different circles of friends I have. Be it work, school, church, public areas, acquaintances, etc.; we move around in different circles. To me, it's a great way to live. We get to meet and interact with so many others.

Just yesterday the interaction I had made me think about how wonderful my life really is. Not going into too many details, but I had a short conversation with someone not in my usual circle of friends. They called me by my first name, "Beth"; it took me by surprise in some ways because of who it was and their vocation. It wasn't anything bad, just 'wierd' [yes...different is better]. The interaction made me smile; because it's a great life I'm living!

And by 'wierd' I really do mean 'different' or 'unique' so don't get me wrong and try to start something (ha, ha)!!! And hopefully using the word 'wierd' won't be offensive.

Anyway, my life is no different than your's; each of us has our 'wierd, different, unique, or interesting' moments as we interact with people each day. And it can be in a good way!

Jesus had a lot of wierd encounters and he took advantage of the opportunity to pour his love into those moments. I hope in my 'wierdly-different' life I can do the same thing on a daily--moment by moment--basis.

Been kind of quiet...

A quick, little post today.

We've enjoyed some down time from traveling to preach; though it's hard not to want to minister on Sunday! We've had some family time, couple time, and friend's time, too.

Last weekend we were blessed to be with my family: Mom; sister, brother, nephew, and their families. It was wonderful. To be able to attend church with Mom was a true gift.

Also, like other years we've combined our birthday's, anniversary, and even Christmas gifts, to enjoy a meal and show at our local Fireside Dinner Theater. It was fabulous! Check it out online...

Tomorrow we hope to spend sometime with our youngest son and his family and then to go to our oldest grandson's football game. We saw his JV game on Tuesday...he did great!

You know a woman of a certain age truly enjoys these gathering times...being with our kids and their families; seeing my siblings and Mom, and mostly being with my best friend this side of heaven.

Retrospective 8: Monday in Ethiopia & Tuesday in Wisconsin

13 December 2010. Our last full day in Addis Ababa. Up early to join Dr. John Balikowski for breakfast and conversation. Did some packing, reading, and enjoying the morning. At about 10 a.m. Robin Thomas (missionary Bob Thomas' wife) arrived to pick us up for a day of souvenir shopping, conversation, lunch, and a lot of goodbyes!

Other than saying goodbye, it was a fun day. Of course to be able to spend a full day with missionaries is always a fun day! Shopping, bargain hunting, thinking of who might like what--plus wondering what I might like to keep! Purchased some pottery, scarves, Ethiopian coffee, and other items for Christmas gifts.

The four of us enjoyed an American meal at a local restaurant; the owners are from Seattle! While we were there we enjoyed a quick conversation with some other people from the States. The world is very small some times!

After saying goodbye to Rhonda, Bob brought us back to Dr. John's house. Bob downloaded all the pictures we took onto his laptop, hopefully there was some good ones.

After saying goodbye to Bob (who will be bringing us to the airport later) we went to pack some and rest some.

We were so surprised; the house staff gave us a going away gift...a beautiful, handcrafted, pottery coffee pot. So sweet! We then enjoyed a wonderful supper meal and more conversation with Dr. John...we won't be seeing him until January, if we can connect when we get to Florida.

After we finished packing we actually went to sleep for awhile. Our flight is at 4 a.m., but because it is an international flight we need to get there early (or late depending on how you say it). Bob picked us up about midnight to take us to the airport, which was very nice of him! Customs and immigration went very smoothly...it was really suprising to see all of the other people flying out at that same hour.

14 December 2010. So began our long journey home. It is so hard to imagine being in Ethiopia one day and at the end of the same day being home in southeastern WI! We flew from Addis Ababa to Jordan; then to London for the longer flight. We arrived in Chicago about 5:30 pm (if it was still Tuesday I would be surprised). We went through immigration, customs and baggage claim in time to catch the bus to our car in Janesville, WI.

Remember it's December! Yup...our car was covered in snow and ice. It took Bill some time to get it all off, but finally we were home by 9:30 p.m. Did very little after arriving home except go to sleep. I did make a couples of phone calls to let the family know we were home safe.

This ends my remembrance of our missions trip to Ethiopia...hope you enjoyed it.

Soon we'll be planning and going on our next overseas missions trip to Cebu City, Philippines. That will be exciting, too.

Retrospective Seven

Another beautiful day in Ethiopia...Sunday!!!

12 December 2010. Please forgive misspelling of cities and names!!!.

Zaway, Ethiopia, south of Addis Ababa with Pastor Jonas. Because the drive to the church is about 2 1/2 hrs. away we had to get up pretty early. Missionary Bob Thomas picked us up by 7 a.m. Back the clock up from that point and it's pretty early. The only thing... no water or water pressure; which means no shower...a sponge bath with water from the reserve barrel in our bathroom. [Not drinking water mind you, but water to use for bathing, flushing, etc.] We used  bottled water to brush our teeth.

As I said, we drive about 2.5 hrs south of the city through some very beautiful country, towns, and villages. We see people walking, riding bikes, waiting for the bus, or sitting outside enjoying the cool morning. Lot's of animals: sheep, goats, and donkeys. On the way down Bob told us to look for the camel herds and we saw them. Don't see that at all in Wisconsin...a herd of camels on the side of the road!!! He also said, at times there are baboons in the area, but we didn't see any.

Had an excellent time at church; the people were so glad to see us and hear what the Father had to say. Pastor Jonas interpreted for Bill...both did a wonderful job. After service I had some fun with the kids taking their pictures...they were giggling and laughing as they looked at their own photos. A great memory!

After church we ate at a local restaurant with Pastor. We then went to a local lake where we could have seen hippos; apparently they were around the bend of the lake. Had fun talking to a gentleman though, he wanted to be my friend...pastor witnessed to the man. Quite interesting!

One of our main reasons for going to the church was that our host, Dr. John Balikowski (who is a retired dentist) had scheduled a medical clinic at the local prison and we were invited to see what they were doing. I have never been to a place like this...a compound of buildings and dirt. Well organized but still dirty! And the odors...no explanation for that. Oh, if you only could have been there with us; your heart would have been changed forever.

The doctors, nurses, dentists, receptionists, helpers, equipment cleaners, and pastors were so very busy with the needs of both men and women at the prison. And the prisoners were very thankful. I have no idea what crimes they committed; but they needed help. The prison warden was also very thankful that the medical clinic had come. There is a chapel in the compound that local ministers preach and teach at.

The men and women are separate, of course; but something I hadn't thought of...there was also a child there with it's mother. A definite eye opener. The whole time we were there was extremely moving and life-changing.

We say goodbye and thank you to each one who was helping. As we travel back to Addis Ababa we see they same herd of camels except there are at least 100! Amazing! Stopped at a local motel to use their restroom facilities (western!) and later stopped to eat at a restaurant (had pizza!!!).

We were finally back to John's house by about 8 p.m. After that hot, dry, dusty, and wonderful day I treated myself to a nice, hot shower. What was kind of funny was that we read our emails and they were having a big snowstorm in Wisconsin.

Another beautiful day in Ethiopia. Next blog will be about our last full day in Ethiopia!

Retrospective Six

Continuing our 2010 Ethiopian Missions Trip.

11 December, Saturday. Because it's Saturday, we have a day to relax. Dr. John has lost his voice from being out in the night air at the services with us; and he has a lot to do today so he won't be coming with us. We are up by 6 am and ready to go after breakfast. Missionary Bob Thomas and their son Bobby pick us up and drive us out of town to a local resort/hospital that offers clear/clean air, vistas, cute restaurant, and an opportunity to really relax. It's a beautiful setting; not too far from the city with good food. Bob & Bobby take time to throw a football...can you imagine. Here we are in Africa (a true dream of mine) with missionaries doing a very American father-son 'thing'; throwing a football...it was great! After lunch we walk around a bit, then head back to town. We so appreciate Bob taking time out of his schedule to give us this sweet day and memory. We meet up with Rhonda (Bob's wife) at a coffee shop...enjoy an ice cream cone actually! It was really good! After that we did a little shopping for some baskets. When we finally arrive home we do some reading, resting, studying for Sunday, and have another meal. BUT: the water isn't flowing and there is no electricity. Dr. John and his assistant get the generator powered up and we have electricity. As far as the water? Well, the next time you see me ask me about how that went! It's Saturday night, what else is there to do but pop some popcorn and watch a movie...Dr. John and I did just that, in front of his computer. Another great time and memory; it gave me a flashback of doing this very same thing with my Dad (except in front of the TV).

Next post? ...our adventure south out of the city for a 2 1/2 hour drive that includes a camel sighting, but the adventure started even before we left...

Retro 5

8 December 2010. Actually, the last day or so I wasn't feeling well. Today, Wednesday, I stayed at Dr. John's while Bill went to chapel. That evening, though, after some rest and tea & toast I was feeling much better. We went to Missionary Bob & Rhonda Thomas' home for a meal. Very nice. Tonight was an early night because of the rolling black-outs that happen across the city; meaning no electricity.

9 December 2010. Still feeling a little sick...get up and get moving, have a little more tea & toast and go to the Bible College with Bill. While we wait in Bob's office, he and Dr. John go to teach their class. We meet up again for chapel. After a snack we shared with the student body, Bill went to a meeting/teaching session with the General Superintendent of the Ethiopian Assemblies of God and about a dozen Assembly of God leaders and pastors. It was a thrill for him to be able to speak into their lives, ministering and helping any way he could. I went back to Bob's office to get on the internet and send some emails!!! That evening, after our supper meal, we preached at another local church. Very exciting!

10 December 2010. Still feeling the effects of whatever I had, but not enough to slow me down; continued on with our day. This is our last day on campus and for Bill to minister at chapel. The faculty and students presented us with a gift of Ethiopian coffee and tea...excellent! Today I sang a song for them...powerful message of 'going' when God says 'go'. Most of the students understood the words because they know the English language. Because of service starting at 5:30 pm we ate our supper a little earlier. At service tonight, the people were all so very excited and thankful that we came to minister to them. All I was thinking was how they were ministering to me: with their faithfulness, warmth, excitement and their passion for the things of God. The people were responding to God's holy presence; and to the worship. They asked me to sing a song for this service...not sure if they understood the words, but it truly was an honor and priviledge to sing for them. They were all very appreciative. They also had a singing guest in attendance...the people knew who he was if we didn't! A popular Christian recording artist from Ethiopia. He sure could sing!!! They were also recording the event...kind of like a music video. The man was very impressive! Home by 8:30 pm, did some reading and went to sleep.

Remember, within all of these daily reports is a lot of Dr. John & the Thomas' taking very good care of us. Feeding, housing, driving us where we need to go; missionaries are the true heroes of the faith!

Retroactive Part 4

6 December 2010. Monday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia was the beginning of a gloriously, busy week. Bill was scheduled as the guest chapel speaker at AABC (Addis Ababa Bible College). After a wonderful breakfast at Dr. John's house we arrived on campus for the 10 am chapel service. The staff and students were truly excited about meeting us and waiting to hear what God had to say to them. At this service, Bill was able to teach in English because the students know the language. After chapel we went back 'home' to rest some, eat a light lunch, and do some sight-seeing with Dr. John. He brought us to the future dental clinic (John is a dentist); the university where he teaches dentistry; and stopped at a couple of local shops. How he ever found these two places? We may never know! They were down some very narrow streets and alleys...but once we got there...oh my! One was a weaving shop that made hand-woven items: tablecloths, scarves...beautiful! The second place was a pottery shop, amazing, hand-painted items: little dishes, napkin holders, coffee pots, cups; the hand-crafting was beautiful. Bought a couple of things there...I love pottery! Back to the house for our evening meal, to watch a video, and catch our emails. Another wonderful day in Africa!

7 December 2010. Bill spoke at chapel (AABC) on Tuesday, as well. Because Missionary Bob Thomas and Dr. John were teaching that day we needed to get there earlier. Up and out of the house by 8:30 am. While we waited in Bob's office for chapel to start we got online and checked our emails and Facebook. It's such a great way to communicate across the miles; keeping everyone updated and knowing all is okay at home, too. Chapel was exciting, again! Each day more staff and students were attending. It was a great honor for us to be there; seeing the excitement and hunger of each one wanting to learn more! A wonderful lesson for us, too. That evening we attended, and Bill spoke at, another local church. There was singing, praying and then the message. The service was truly exciting. Their style of singing may be different from ours, and we can't understand the words, but we still worship the same Saviour! Back to Dr. John's; lights across the area go out again, a sure sign it's time for bed! What a truly awesome experience being in Africa!

Retroactive Part 3

5 December 2010. On Sunday morning in Addis Ababa we were up and moving by 6 am! After breakfast we arrived at church by 8:30 am. Traditionally services are quite lengthy and the two morning services Bill preached at were no different. Not because of his preaching, but because the people are excited about being at church.

Each service was very exciting; filled with music, worship, the people, the church staff...all very wonderful, warmly receiving us into their church. Remember it has always been a dream of mine to go to Africa and here were are at the largest Assemblies of God church in Ethiopia; with 10,000 members we were told!

After the services, Bob & Rhonda Thomas (the missionaries from the Michigan District we were working with) and their children, Dr. John, and us, all went out to eat. After a delicious meal, Bob took us to the local museum for some Ethiopian history.

We were back to John's house by 4 pm. Had a little rest, then watched part of a teaching video, checked our emails, Facebook, visited with John and closed another day in Africa.

When we minister overseas we realize that each day is different and exciting or just another average day. We might not see goats and sheep in the streets everyday or have to turn on the generator because the electricity failed, but we do know that each day is a blessing and an honor for us to have lived it in Africa!

Retroactive Part 2

Each day we were in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia was an amazing experience.

It included conversation with our host, Dr. John, to walking the streets looking for hidden shops, to riding in a taxi-van with a lot of other people, seeing goat and sheep herders moving their animals across 6 lanes of traffic, to the Lexus and Audi cars being driven on those same streets by the people working in the high rise buildings. Amazing!

4 December 2010. After a night of restful sleep we woke to get ready for our day. Breakfast was served to us by Salish, the woman who manages Dr. John's household! She is a terrific cook; we never left the table hungry! After breakfast we went online to inform our families in the states that all was well and to quickly post on Facebook, too! The computer system was very slow and could have disconnected at any time, another experience!

John told us that his other mission responsibility north of the city may be receiving a shipment of dental supplies and he would need to be there to oversee the unloading, etc. If that happens he asked if we could teach his class at the Bible school. We would be in charge of two sessions...video's...no teaching!!! We said sure, another experience?

After some coffee and more conversation we went to our room to study and rest. About 11 am we walked to the local market with Dr. John. The city closes the street to vehicle traffic and the vendors display their items right on the road! Lot's of things from T-shirts, shoes, leather goods, kitchen things; like a flea market in the States. That taxi-van ride I mentioned earlier? That's how we got back to John's house!

That evening we attended the first ever missions convention the local churches held. It was very exciting to see so many people there, eat their food, and sing their songs. One thing about the food in Ethiopia is a special dish they serve...raw meat! Yup...uncooked beef! They love it! But, because they knew us westerner's wouldn't eat it they served other delicious food like lasagna! The evening was great. Many pastors pledged a month's salary towards missions...amazing experience.

We were back to John's by about 9:30 pm to visit some more and then go to sleep. The next day Bill will be preaching two services to two very large crowds...an experience for sure!

Retroactive

Today's blog will be on our trip to Ethiopia, Africa. Yes, we were there in December 2010, but I thought today would be a good day to write about it! And besides, I keep a short daily diary of what we do every day (well, not everything but you know what I mean); it helps me remember what we did.

1 December 2010: Day One.

This is the day we fly to Ethiopia, Africa. Can you believe it? Our missionary friend from Florida, Dr. John as we affectionately call him, helped arrange this trip. We'll be ministering with our soon to be friends Bob & Rhonda Thomas. It has been a lifelong dream of mine to go to Africa as a missionary; maybe because of the stories I heard when missionaries would visit our church. Trust me, day one was a full, busy day.

Actually, it was pretty normal to begin with. Got ready for the day, sent out our weekly ministry update, went to work...did normal stuff; made sure my Facebook page was updated and packed my carryon bag. We ate a little bit, relaxed some; then jumped in the car to drive to the local bus terminal for our 2 1/2 hr ride to O'Hare airport in Chicago.

Everything went very smoothly at check-in, security, and the gate...we finally boarded by 8:30 pm (CST). While on board we ate some, rested some, and occupied our time with reading and watching the inflight movie. It was a pretty good flight!

We arrived in London 6 hrs later (by my watch), about 11 am local time but couldn't check in until 6 pm! To make the time go faster we walked a lot, read, and watched people. Finally, we are able to check-in for the next leg of our journey. After check-in, we went to eat at a TGIF restaurant. Unaware that the exchange rate is not good for the US dollar we ate a hamburger and a soda at a cost of $40. Needless to say we were shocked at the cost, but it is a memory!

We finally board the plane at 9 pm (Thursday, Dec. 2) and fly over Europe and North Africa. We arrived safely at 7:15 am; got our visa, immigration stamps, and our luggage. Dr. John & Missionary Bob Thomas met us at the airport and brought us to Dr. John's house. We unpacked, visited, and had something to eat. I was so excited, too, because I got to brush my teeth for the first time in three days (well, it seemed like it anyway).

There is the first installment of a two week adventure in Africa. There are very exciting days ahead in this story, including: having the electric and water go out, eating new foods, and meeting the warm, friendly people of Ethiopia.

Do anything different lately?

Since I have last written, we have been to many different cities, towns, and states. Just last Sunday we were in the thumb of Michigan; Marlette to be exact. It was great, and very pretty. If you are interested, we stayed at a B & B...very quiet, great rooms, private baths, and yummy food. Let me know, and I'll send you the info.

We've been traveling a lot in Wisconsin this spring...which I admit I like. Since we live in Wisconsin it's nice to be close to home; not too much traveling.

A couple of weeks ago we did something different that we haven't ever done before, that I can remember! We drove in separate cars to our weekend ministry...Oneida, WI. We spoke at Oneida Assembly (Native American church) on Sunday and had a wonderful time. The people are so precious and made us feel welcome.

What was different? After our ministry in Oneida Bill drove north to go fishing with some friends and I drove south to stay a couple of days with my Mom. What was also unique about Bill's fishing trip was that pastor friends of ours from Florida and South Carolina came to central Wisconsin to fish at Popp's Resort. A beautiful place on the Peshtigo River flowage. These pastors (and others) used to fish in Canada but decided to try a new place. We had the blessing of staying at Popp's on two different occasions when ministering at churches in that area. The guys all had a great time, caught fish, and got a little sunburn in the process.

I, on the other hand, had a terrific time with my Mom. My sister came, too; so it was just us three women. We had a blast. Shopping, pedicure's, visiting, relaxing; just enjoying each others company.

One of the things the three of us did was go to my Dad's grave. I don't even like saying it, but it's part of our lives now. We placed a plant by his stone and then visited other graves of our family members. My dad's sister joined us, too; she gave us some insight on family history which we were glad to hear.

Sometimes not being together all the time ends up being okay. Though my husband and I missed each other terribly we both came away from the time relaxed and invigorated.

Yes, it was different and we probably won't do it for awhile, but it was a good thing!

It's been too long!

Sorry, it's been a while. We have been traveling a lot, but that is no excuse. My last post was written when we were still in Florida. We've been home in Wisconsin since March 21. It's good to be home!

The travels have been great and we love what we are doing. Let me tell you about one thing that came out of our trip to Florida. This year, while in Florida, the schedule was hectic, but we always knew we were in the right place at the right time.

It truly worked out to our advantage...that hectic schedule. Let me explain... my parents had a winter home in Florida for a lot of years and while we traveled to Florida for ministry we would stay with them. In 2009 my Dad passed away and my Mom didn't want the double expense (which is understandable). In 2010 my Mom sold her mobile home (which was a miracle and another story) when we were done with our ministry in Florida. That left us without a place to stay this year.

God worked it out though. We stayed with a friend; then we were in a couple of motels until we were able to rent a home in Pleasant Grove, FL. Between a ministry trip to Georgia and South Carolina we stayed in this home for a total of four weeks. But that's just the part of the story.

This home is located on church property (it's a home the church offers to missionaries or evangelists). On this same property are cottage-homes that are privately owned; but the land belongs to the church. We discovered that several of these homes were for sale. We looked at three and actually were able to purchase one. Yes, we are home owners in Florida!!! The sale will be final the end of this month.

This long explanation was given to say that even through the middle of moving about, God had a plan. He knew that little cottage would be just perfect for us and directed our path to it. Also, when we go again in 2012 we'll have a place to go to and to stay at.

This week we'll be traveling to Minnesota for their District Council and then to minister at our friends church in northern Wisconsin. Our suitcases are not packed, but they will be soon.

What is going on?

In my continued studies for credentialing, today's post is on the Book of Job. I am under no circumstances writing this as a scholar of the Old Testament or of Hebrew. My blog today is about observations on the circumstances of life and how to deal with them.

"Have you considered my servant, Job?  He is blameless and upright, a man who fears God."[1]

Job's life and character were discussed in the heavenlies without having a 'say-so' on the outcome. Not only did he have it all, it was all taken (except for a 'nagging' wife) in a matter of one day; and the next day his health was taken. Job could have easily asked, 'what is going on?'

How could Job continue to fear God and keep on trusting him? Maybe the bigger question is how can a loving God seem to ignore human suffering? If he is all powerful, and knows all things why doesn't he do something about all the suffering? And how do we stay strong in our faith when we have troubles and injustices in our lives?

I'll let Job (chapter 1, verse 21) answer that (after he was on his face in worship). Job said, "Naked I came...and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and...has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised."[1] This scripture has so much meaning and depth. We come with nothing, we'll leave with nothing; but in between when 'stuff' happens we can trust God and praise him in the circumstances and indignities.

There is an explanation for this from the notes in my Bible [2]; to help us better understand this verse. Understand that Job is not perfect, but his trust and reliance on the Lord is his high standard to follow. Job had doubts, anger, and a sense of isolation from God (in later chapters), but he also had experienced God's faithfulness in the past and knew that God would be faithful again. As Job, we must look to how God has blessed us in the past: our salvation, healing, insight into solutions for problems, strength in the midst of persecutions, and to helping overcome our doubts. God can handle our doubts, misgivings, our unbelief...he is always ready to hear our cry. But will he always be ready to give us a reason? What about the question of all the suffering in the world?

Please indulge me for a few minutes as I relay some good information that I have learned while taking the course on the study of the Old Testament. [3]

1] God's complete plan is not and will not be fully realized on this earth, but only in the age to come. It's a partial realization called "already, not yet". Very simply put it's like when we travel and I ask my husband are we there yet, he says, "we are already here, but not yet there" (kind of a midway point on the map). God's will has been partially fulfilled now but won't be completely fulfilled until the future. The unanswered questions may remain unanswered until we see him.

2] Remember the conversation God had with the devil? Though they spoke to each other, the devil was by no means equal to God in any way. He has no power, only God does.

3] In reading the Book of Job we can conclude that God tests and tries people. Walking through the trials and circumstances of life teaches us lessons on being faithful and having a pure and true belief that God is sovereign and in control.

4] Because of the nature of man we live in a sinful, fallen world. Horrible things happen; injustices, inequalities, unfairness...bad things. Some of the trials of our lives are because of this fallen, imperfect world. Yet God is compassionate and walks with us through this sinful, fallen world.

As we firmly hold on to the promise that God will never leave us or forsake us; that he loves us unconditionally, and that we can turn to him no matter what. Like Job, we can handle the question, 'what's going on?'

Notes:
[1] NIV Life in the Spirit Study Bible. 1992, 2003. Zondervan. Grand Rapids, MI.
[2] NIV Life in the Spirit Study Bible. 1992, 2003. Zondervan. Grand Rapids, MI. Job 1:21, notes Pg. 717.
[3] Old Testament Survey. 2006, 2010. Global University, Springfield, MO. Job: Perseverance in Suffering. Pg 124.

Always learning...

Part of the reason for my blog is it's a requirement for passing my next couple of classes towards getting my license to preach; I just received my certificate of ministry. The next level is what I'm working towards.

One of my bullet points for starting this blog is 'to blog for class projects'. Today's blog will incorporate that requirement.

The class I'm taking now is Old Testament Survey. It's very interesting. I have always enjoyed reading and studying the Old Testament. The stories, lives of the people, the interaction between groups of people, God's intervention time and again, all with lessons to be learned.

If I was to pick a favorite book of the Old Testament...I would not be able to! I have several...Ruth, Esther, Proverbs, yes even Leviticus (which is the many Laws God gave the Israelites).

Today's short subject is Ruth. If you have never read this book, please take the time. It's a love story that continues to this day. Ruth is a widow that returns to Israel with her mother-in-law. Through a series of events Ruth meets Boaz (her kinsman-redeemer) and becomes the Great-Grandma to King David.

This of course is a quick rendition (and hopefully accurate enough to understand). The interesting thing about Ruth is that not only is David part of her family, so is Jesus Christ...our Redeemer. Even those many years ago, God had a plan to use a humble widow to be an ancestor of Jesus.

Again, the God of the Old Testament flows through the New Testament to be sovereign in our lives. Ruth's story teaches us that not only did God love then, but His mercy and grace flow throughout history to love us today...through Jesus.

Amazing!!!

It's a new day

Writing is a really fun process. My questions is always, though, does it make sense or does it matter to anyone? Maybe writing is really for the writer. Anyway, I know I'll enjoy blogging because I like to write. I have years of journals and daily diaries...wonder if I should include some here some day? We'll see.

Today my post is going to include some background on our life and the reason for this blog.

My husband (Bill) and I are traveling Assembly of God Evangelists. We contact pastors to see if they would want us to come and preach at their church. We are invited by the pastor to preach and minister to their people. This is a wonderful, amazing responsibility. Bill is the preacher and I am the one who plays the keyboard and sings. We are a team. With the pastor and spouse we minister together to the church.

We have been doing this for 13 years now and are enjoying it very much. Considering, of course, we are in Florida now for another month it is easy to enjoy our life!!! We've ministered in the Midwest, Colorado, Arizona, Nebraska, Missouri, New Jersey, Kentucky, Georgia, and a new state this year...South Carolina. Each place has been (and will be) a blessing to us.

We have traveled overseas on several missions trips, too. That will be another blog...

This is the reason for the title of blog. With our suitcase packed, we are on our way to another place. We have concluded that our suitcase defines where our home is...even if traveling from Wisconsin to Florida or overseas, we are blessed to know that wherever that suitcase lands we are with each other and we are in the Lord's will.

Take care and remember to enjoy the journey...wherever you suitcase may land!!!

It's just the beginning...

What can I say, I'm going to join the world of 'blogging'. Can you believe it? But why start now?

Several reasons come to mind that include:

• This blog will create a tool to give you, the reader, more insight into our travels
• This will also help me hone my writing skills and give me the opportunity to put my thoughts down
• Since I'm working toward my ministerial credentials, it's part of my course work...
• It will give me the chance to share my faith in a different and hopefully successful way

As you can see it will be a great adventure. Just like our travels and just like life.

In recent days I've come to realize that God is Sovereign. No matter how good we are or how great things are going; or how bad things are going or (can it be?) how bad we are...God is Sovereign. He is in control, faithful, understanding, and filled with love for us.

Pack your suitcase and travel with me (us) as we continue on our journey.