The Christmas Tree

One of the things that I love about teaching my kids at home is that I am learning so much alongside them. I was never really that interested in history & science when I was in school. I can list a whole host of reasons why, but then I would just be shifting blame and complaining. I think it is better to say that as years come and go, I believe that my tastes in many things have evolved. I have had to read many different types of books for work and for the kids. I believe it has stretched me in so many good ways. In the past, I took what people said about things that happened in history as fact. I had not researched it for myself and was not interested in doing so. If it sounded believable, I let it pass as truth. I know that was a big mistake on many levels! One of those subjects that I let this occur in was the history of the Christmas tree. I had been told that the decorating of Christmas trees was really a pagan practice meant to worship tree spirits. Christians tried to justify participating in this practice by changing some of the ornaments to represent Christ. Over the years, I have allowed this wrong information to rob me of some of the joy of the season. I am so thankful that this year in the study of the early Church I have learned the truth. I am going to briefly outline what I learned: Winfrid, better known as St. Boniface, was an Anglo-Saxon Englishman in the early 700s. His first assignment as an ordained priest was to the pagans of Freisland, Germany. Sadly, his first experience on the mission field was unsuccessful and discouraging. However, the Father sent him again to Germany...this time to Hesse. It was very common for the people of Hesse to worship trees and other things in nature. As it is recorded, one day, Boniface was traveling through the woods and came upon a group of people ready to sacrifice a young prince to the "gods" of a massive (6 foot across) oak tree. Boniface "intervened" it says to rescue the prince. He cut down the tree. He is quoted as saying, "How stands your mighty god? My God is stronger than he." Now that he finally had the attention of the people of Hesse, he began using the example of a fir tree (evergreen), common in the area, to share of the one true God and His everlasting love for them. Slowly the symbol of the evergreen tree and God's gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ began to move through Europe and eventually to the Americas. Now, I challenge you not to take my word for it! Research it for yourself and enjoy your celebration of the Gift of Christ!! For the first time this year, I am looking at our tree in a whole new light. I am also looking for opportunities to share the everlasting love of Christ. AT Pictures: This is how we are remembering the Christmas tree and participating in "Advent" this year. The kids made chocolate Christmas Trees. They get to eat one chocolate per day.

Not Pictured: We are still lighting our Advent candles each Sunday and reflecting on the coming of Christ as well as reading a "Christmas Book" each night. (click here to read more about these traditions)

Our Thankful Month 2011

Just as in the past 2 years, we spent the entire month of November reflecting and giving thanks for the blessings the Lord has bestowed on us. This year, instead of a "tree", we decided to create a "Thankful Book". It was always interesting each day to see what the kids would write. Some days, it was the simple things like fresh water and electricity that they chose to remember. While other days, they wrote things like salvation, family and true friends. It is fun to look at the finished book. I am amazed at how the simple act of praising the Father can really get our minds and hearts ready for the holiday season. The holiday suddenly really does become about HIM. May you enjoy a wonderful month celebrating the precious gift of Christ. AT

Sorry, no deep thoughts for the month. I have list a few of my Thanksgiving blogs from years past if you are interested. Thanksgiving 2010 Click Here; Seated at His Table; What am I hungry for?; Chew on This

Becoming a Pastry Baker!!

Upon moving into a new neighborhood, I met “Arnold,” a pastry baker. I was looking for a cooking supply needed by Amy. I was surprised to find him extremely open to a friendship even after only a couple of conversations. Over the next few months, I found myself having tea with Arnold once or twice a week. Sometimes I would stop by and talk to him while he worked in his pastry shop, but as hard as I worked to move the conversation toward faith-based conversations, he worked just as hard to move it away. After spending more than a year visiting, Arnold said that he wanted to teach me how to make the pastries that are his passion. I agreed and thought that I was in for a fun morning. After a day of mixing, kneading, rolling, making and baking, I had learned a small portion of what Arnold wanted to teach me. He asked if I could come back the next day so that we could really get to the “important” stuff. My mind was reeling as I mentally reviewed everything on my to-do list that would have to be shuffled if I spent another day at the bakery. A couple of hours into day two of my “training” as a baker, Arnold turned to me and asked what I believed about the end of the world. We talked for two hours about what each of us believed, how they were similar, and more importantly how they differed. The work in Central Asia is slow. We are often tempted to make judgments of an individual’s receptiveness to the Good News based on a handful of interactions. Arnold, like many others, just needed to determine if I was willing to stick with him whether he believed or not. Arnold has not come to faith…yet. However, he is asking questions that allow for the Truth to be shared with boldness and unwavering truthfulness.
It took a year to start spiritual conversations, but it was worth the wait! MT

Fall Karate

I feel blessed to have the privilege of living overseas with children. Having children opens so many doors to meet neighbors and other members of the community. I believe locals find me as a foreigner more approachable because of our common position as wives and mothers. Currently, my children (ages 10 & 8) are participating in a local sports club. They love the opportunity to exert some energy and make friends, and I am enjoying the fellowship of local women.
Over the course of a month, I noticed an elderly woman from time to time waiting with the other parents. She sat withdrawn from the other waiting moms, and she never joined in the chatter and fellowship. Truth be told, she has a very sad and somewhat mysterious presence about her.
One Saturday, as the Lord would have it, she entered the club and decided to sit on the bench right next to me. I began small talk with her and even shared a plate of cookies passed-out by the staff. After about an hour, she asked me to point out my children. I thought it was pretty obvious, but continued pleasantries by indicating which two belonged to me. She then very gravely informed me that several weeks ago she felt compelled to put a hex on my children. Her reasoning was: “so that their foreign souls would not harm her grandson, and so that they would not succeed and do better than her grandson in karate.” It is very common for women of all cultures to deal with jealousy; however it seems to be much heightened in this society. It is also just as common for women in Central Asian culture to dabble in folk religious practices. However, I must say that my initial response was shock. Thankfully, the Lord gave me His words to share. I basically shared with her that my family loves her and her grandson. We intend her no harm. I also explained to her that my husband and I pray in the name of Jesus over and for our children daily. Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord over all. Nothing happens without His permission. At that point, her face changed from the grave sadness to a strange grin, and she replied, "We know of Him and He is greatest over all."
I cannot quite wrap my mind and hands around what might be going on in this woman’s life, but I do know that the Father desires her heart and fully desires that she proclaim Him Lord of all. I am praying that the Lord gives me more opportunities to share truth with her as well as the other moms. One meeting at a time...AT

Happy All Martyr’s Day

Our theme this year was "The Kingdom of God". God is the King of Kings, and we are His children. That makes us princes and princesses. We spent the day dressed up in "royal" clothes and speaking very royally! We carved our pumpkin. I am so thankful that the Father cleans us out and places His light in us!! We made crowns. We will be given crowns in heaven that we will have the privilege of lying at the feet of Jesus. We baked brownies and made pumpkin soup. We read about people that have gone around the world and given their lives to share the good news of Jesus Christ with a lost and dying world. It is not an easy job, but it is one that all believers are called to. We pray you made the holiday a special one with your family. William Travis

He's in double digits!!

I know all moms say this, but it really is amazing how quickly time goes by. It is hard to believe that it has been a whole decade that I have had the wonderful privilege of being the mom of this precious boy. William celebrated many times over the course of the week. Since Matt was needed in Van, we had a family party on the 24th. The big toy around here right now is "Beyblades". Of course, what they have here is the cheep version that breaks easily. Fortunately, we were able to get a hold of some nicer ones. They seem to be pretty solid. I think they are really the modern day version of tops. On William's birthday, he opened packages & cards from loved ones; played at the park; rode his bike & skates; and had a PJ/movie afternoon. When Matt returned from Van, he took William and 2 local friends to the new 7D theater and bowling alley. Yes, DIY is moving up in the world. They just put these in the new mall last month...along with a "pizza" place!! William had a good week. I look forward to seeing all that God is going to do in his life over the next 10 years! AT

The First Letter of Paul to the Thessalonians

This has always been one of my favorite passages of scripture. I read it this morning during my alone time, and I thought of you, so I decided to share. I Thessalonians 5:16-28

16 Rejoice always; Yes, the Bible really does say ALWAYS. Not just when we feel like it....not just when things are going "good"....not just when it's easy.....ALWAYS (Phil. 4:4; Ps. 33:1) 17 Pray without ceasing; Talking to God should be so much apart of our lives that on our every breath are praises and petitions to the Father. Our hearts should be constantly at His feet. (Eph. 6:18) 18 In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus; You want to know God's will for your life? It's right here....to have a thankful heart. This is a command, by the way, not a suggestion. The verse says in everything give thanks. See verse 16 again for more clarification on timing.... (Ps 107, 92) 19 Do not quench the Spirit; Do not put out or stifle the Holy Spirit. What do we think that means? Some would say that this is a warning to unbelievers to "beware" of messing with the Spirit of the Lord. However, I believe that because this was a letter from Paul to the church that Paul is specifically talking to persons that are indwelled with the Spirit. He is warning us not to try to take on the roll of the HS. Yes, some are gifted with discernment and may be aware of a brewing problem - but the Spirit is the convictor of sins....yes, some are gifted in evangelism - but the Spirit draws all men to Himself....yes, some are gifted in teaching - but the Spirit gives wisdom to those that ask. I think you see where I am going. We are to be faithful servants, but we are not the King of Kings. Let Him sit on the throne of our hearts and use us as He chooses. (I Peter 3:15) 20 Do not despise prophetic utterances. 21 But examine everything carefully; hold fast to the which is good; 22 abstain from every form of evil; I think that 20-22 should really all be one verse because they are really one thought. As a Baptist, sometimes I freak-out a little bit when someone says they have a "prophetic word", and I believe rightfully so. The "freak-out" part comes, unfortunately, because all too often people say that they have a word from God when in reality they don't. With all good intentions sometimes they are simply trying to "make you feel better". The opposite of that would be with bad intent they are trying to glorify themselves or manipulate a situation. I think the key here is personally having an intimate relationship with the Father and knowing His word. If someone comes to you with a word, take it to the Father yourself. He will confirm it for you. (I John 4:1-2) Then you can tell the Baptist part of you to lighten up and dance a little before the Lord! : ) 23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Sounds easy right??? Hummmm....well...I wish! The process of sanctification is a lifelong process and boy sometimes it hurts. One day at a time...right? (Romans) 24 Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass. OHHHH, but yes that is the good part. We are not trying to sanctify ourselves. It is He who is faithful to us. (Phil. 1:6) 25 Brethren, pray for us. I love it that Paul asks for prayer. I believe prayer is the real battle ground. Our family is so grateful for the many prayer warriors that stand guard on the battle field for us. (Matt. 7:7-11) 26 Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss. We now live in a culture that a kiss on each cheek is a proper greeting. I am not a "physical touch" love language person, so I admit this has been a big adjustment for me over the past 2 years. However, I am making progress in this area, and I plan to give each of you a 'big ole smack-a-roo' the next time I see you - in the name of the Lord, of course! 27 I adjure you by the Lord to have this letter read to all the brethren. 28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. I am just following Paul's recommendation by sharing the word. Yes, may the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you!! AT

Who am I exalting?

Today as I sat seeking God in a decision I was reminded of two stories from the Bible that are unrelated but show the beauty of the Father.
The first, is the Tower of Babel. Genesis 11 says:
3 "They said to each other, “Come, let’s make bricks and bake them thoroughly.” They used brick instead of stone, and tar for mortar. 4 Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves; otherwise we will be scattered over the face of the whole earth.”
The second passage is Joshua 4 which says:
"1 When the whole nation had finished crossing the Jordan, the LORD said to Joshua, 2 “Choose twelve men from among the people, one from each tribe, 3 and tell them to take up twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan, from right where the priests are standing, and carry them over with you and put them down at the place where you stay tonight.”
4 So Joshua called together the twelve men he had appointed from the Israelites, one from each tribe, 5 and said to them, “Go over before the ark of the LORD your God into the middle of the Jordan. Each of you is to take up a stone on his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the Israelites, 6 to serve as a sign among you. In the future, when your children ask you, ‘What do these stones mean?’ 7 tell them that the flow of the Jordan was cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD. When it crossed the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever.”
You may be asking, “What do these stories have in common?” I believe they have more than we see at first glance. At the tower of Babel we see a people so focused on building up their own names that they lost sight of the creator. They wanted to be famous rather than making Him famous. Funny, I didn’t get their names. Joshua, in contrast, led the people of God to build a memorial to His faithfulness for future generations. It is amazing to me that we then read a few verses later in verse 14 of the same chapter:
"14 That day the LORD exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel; and they stood in awe of him all the days of his life, just as they had stood in awe of Moses."
Now, you may be thinking, “So are you saying that Joshua was exalted because He followed God’s command to him?” Yes…and no. Joshua was made famous, but not for his own sake. Joshua was made famous and revered in the site of Israel because it accomplished God’s purposes. Joshua would later lead the army of God into battle and those men needed a strong respected leader to follow. Joshua was not made king of Israel; they already had God as their King. Joshua was a man who followed God for His glory. His work was to point to highlight Famous One that He might be glorified throughout the earth for his contemporary and future generations.
How often do I look to build a monument to my own name, even under the pretense of “doing it for God” rather than building a memorial to His faithfulness? MT

9-11 A Challenge 10 years later...

As I was taking time to remember, reflect & pray today over the tragic events that took place 10 years ago, I believe the Holy Spirit challenged me with a question? "What would it look like if every Believer were able to share the gospel in 9 min. and 11 seconds?" If you are a Believer, than you would agree with me that all those that died on September 11th would want those of us that are still here on earth to be about ONE TASK....helping people to be ready for eternity. Yes, I am a firm proponent of relationship building; meeting people where they are; making my life a bridge; living a life that causes people to seek truth...all those things that take time. HOWEVER, I think that all too often I miss opportunities where the simple telling of the great news of Jesus Christ needs to take place. Why do I miss those opportunities? Well, I have a whole list of excuses; however, on this day of remembering, the question that comes to me over and over again is: "If the people that died 10 years ago had 9 min. and 11 sec. left to discuss eternity with someone, would I step up to the challenge?" As a native English speaker, I have a whole host of "tools" to help me accomplish this task. The Roman Road, Evangelism Explosion, Bridge Brochures; just to name a few. These are great ways to systematically share the simple and accurate truth of God's desire to have a relationship with us for eternity. So, how will I step up to the challenge today? How will you? Can we share the gospel in 9 min. and 11 sec.? NO - well, then let's figure out how. YES - well, then let's do it at least once every week!! Eternity is at stake! AT

If interested click here for my "Where was I" post.

Wrap up the Summer

Where do you go/what can you do when you live in Central Asia/The Middle East and you want to escape the summer heat? Excellent question, excellent question....if anyone comes up with an affordable/do-able answer to that question before next August, please email me!!! I confess I am a big wimp, and this summer has been (still IS!) miserable for me. I am not sure if it was that we really didn't have a spring, (We went from cool in the 70s to 110 degrees!) or if it was the fact that we moved again and were just so busy all summer. This is our 3rd summer without central air. You would think I would be adjusting!! We did have pleasant weather at the lake for Family Camp this month. We traveled to a higher elevation. I didn't think that it would make that big of a difference; however, the nights were actually cold! Then for the holiday after Ramazan we traveled north again. It was nice just to have relief in the evenings. (see our facebook pages for pictures). Well, we will begin our full homeschool program on the 12th of September. Sorry, I have not written much this summer. I'll blame it on the heat again....I guess my brain has been fried. I pray the new year gets off to a good start for each of you, and that you are starting to enjoy Fall weather, smells and food!! Much Love, AT

PICTURES: the family picture is taken at an old church carved into the side of a mountain; the Starbucks was our big splurge in the big city!! GOD IS GOOD : )

How devoted am I to prayer?

2 years ago, shortly after we arrived in country, Matt wrote a blog briefly describing Ramazan and an experience he had with a new friend. (click here to read) I would love to report that the friend has become a Believer or that any one of our new friends has come to faith; however, that is not the case. Is it heartbreaking? YES, of course! We have grown to love our new "family" and friends. We desperately desire for them to walk in truth. However, we are choosing not to be discouraged. We know that God is working. It has been a blessing to be serving alongside a local fellowship of Believers in our current city. Their testimonies are a treasure to behold and hearing each one has grown us and strengthened our hearts for this work. If I had to sum up what most "MBBs" would share as their one "life-line" on how they survive as a persecuted individual; their main thing that drew them to faith; their one thing that they depend on each day; their advice to all believers...it would be the importance and the power of prayer!! We have available to us 24/7 the ear of the Almighty and HIS Son sitting beside him making petitions on our behalf!! HOW POWERFUL IS THAT!! I am ashamed that I do not spend more time just sitting at the feet of the Father talking, praising and standing in the gap for others. Many MBBs still do two things that I think are great "habits" to help them in the area of prayer. The first one is continuing to pray during the 5 daily "calls to prayer". I am not talking about the memorized prayers. I mean that they use the sound of the minaret as a reminder to stop what they are doing and spend time connecting with the Lord. When we first moved overseas getting use to the new sounds took some doing. However, it was Grace that decided she liked the "music" and was going to pray along. We were a little shocked at first, but decided she was right. We didn't know a word of the local language, so of what other use could we be for HIS work, but to pray. (and of course, as it turns out, prayer is still the best and most effective work!!) I think that the churches in Christian countries need to consider going back to playing music from their steeples. This is a great daily reminder. Perhaps when we are back in the States we will set a clock to chime just to stay in the habit!! The second thing that some MBBs still do is carry their "prayer beads". Much like many other religions in the world, the beads are used to remind a person of prayers or other things of importance. When I was a kid the popular thing at camps, VBSs, etc. was to make the bracelets of colored beads that symbolized "the plan of salvation". We wore them as a reminder to share the good news. In recent years, many people have been wearing rubber bracelets. The colors remind them of things of importance....cancer awareness, remembering the military, save the rainforest, etc.! Many also wear items asking WWJD? and/or post stickers all over their cars, refrigerators and mirrors....all in an effort to help them keep their priorities in line. (at least that is what I am choosing to believe!) When we were leaving to begin this journey, our pastor gave Matt and I each very special Saint Christopher medals. They are a powerful reminder to us of the importance of the Great Commission. I guess that it really doesn't matter if you are carrying special beads, wearing cross or a medal, sporting handmade beads/colored bracelets, or leaving yourself stickers & notes. What matters is that we are strategical in devoting ourselves to prayer and the work of the Lord. So I guess this blog leads me back to my original question...How devoted am I to prayer? Do I have focused times each day, each week, each month or each year to fast and pray? If not, what do I need to do right now to make prayer a priority?
Prayerfully growing in Him....AT

How is a parking lot better than a park?

When we moved almost a year ago, one of the things that we were very excited about was living right on the largest park in the city. We had all kinds of dreams of spending hours meeting people and allowing the children tons of exposure to language and play. As the year moved forward, we discovered the lush allure of the park had a really big down side. The park is constantly crowed with people from all over the city. It is rare to run into the same people over again. This made it hard for Matt & I to build relationships with adults and made it unsafe for William and Grace to go out and play without supervision. The neighborhood children were allowed to go out alone, but because there were no adults to monitor them, they were often mischievous and acted like little gangs often vandalizing cars, buildings and park equipment. William and Grace held their own most of the time, but the teasing and constant pestering was beginning to wear on them. Grace is very outgoing, but even she would often vote to simply play alone in her room. However, when we were told we were going to need to find a new apartment, we immediatety began looking around the park. It still seemed in our minds to be the best location in the city. It was close to our store, friends, most major markets, etc., and despite the constant craziness of the park kids, we thought it was the best option for exercise and play. I confess as the month wore on in looking for a house, I was quite discouraged. I really did not want to move AGAIN away from what had become familiar. My neighbors were just opening up, and the local bakers and grocers were finally comfortable with us. The day that Matt found our current apartment I was in an awful mood. Perhaps, it was that I knew God was going to take us through a bigger change than I wanted, or maybe it was just that fact that I realized once again I had assumed upon what God was doing. Whatever the case, I pitched a big fit. Yep, you read that right. As Matt kept driving what seemed like further and further and further out of the city, my aggravation level kept going further and further and further up! When I saw the building, I refused to even go up and look at the flat. SOOOOO, Matt patiently and with a great deal of love began turning around (W & G were almost in tears!). PTL, the Father got a hold of me and I realized my stupidity! I apologized, and Matt turned back again so that we could look at the apartment. The rest of the story most of you know. It took about a month to get moved and some water and electrical issues worked out, but here we are. Today as I looked down at our parking lot and watched William and Grace playing with the other kids in our building it struck me: In God's hands, a plain, flat parking lot can be a hundred times better than a park with all its walking trails and equipment. In the short time that we have been here, W&G have made real friends. The kind of kids that come to your door and ask you to come out; the kind that teach you new games and encourage you to keep trying; the kind that miss you when you aren't there; and that we miss when they aren't there. Yes, we still have to have safety rules, and finding shade in this crazy heat is a big factor, but GOD IS GOOD!! If He can take coal and make it into a diamond, he can take a parking lot and make it into playground!! We are blessed! AT

Birthday Girl

Grace had a wonderful birthday. She started the day with a small family party opening gifts from us and packages that have come in the mail. She then celebrated with a trip to the pool...which is a major treat in this city. She had a small party in the evening after her karate class sharing cake and balloons with friends. One of her favorite things to do is to go on a "date with daddy", so she got all "spiffed-up" and hit the town with her favorite fella. Blessings to our sweet 8 year old!! AT

Letting Go...

...well, for the week anyway...Yes, I have confessed before that one area I struggle with is holding on too tightly to William and Grace. I know that the Father has great things for them, and William has proven himself over and over to be a trustworthy boy of integrity. However, he is still only 9...an YEP, you got it...I am the momma!! I like for all my chicks to be in the coop at night! We are now half way through his first time away at camp. We have heard from him once. He is having a good time. I imagine he is going to come back having grown in language 10 times. He will speak circles around the rest of us, but my prayer for him this week is that he experiences God in a new way. I have been praying that the Holy Spirit speaks to his heart and reveals truth. William accepted Christ as Savior when he ws 6 years old. He has been growing and learning; however, I know that God has an amazing plan for him. The Father will walk with him each step of that path, but it does not mean it will be an easy journey. William (like each of us) needs to know the taste, the smell, the voice & sounds, the presence and the ways of God so intimately that he knows without hesitation the will of the Father. It is our prayer that he always walks in wisdom and truth. He now has 3 more full days of camp and then a long 4th day of 8 hours in a packed van! Please pray alongside us for William and the many children at camps, VBSs, Backyard Bible Clubs and retreats all around the world this summer. Let 2011 be a year that many hear and receive the Gospel of Christ. Let the nations be glad and the heavens rejoice at the harvest!! AT

Contentment

I am sure that I don't know a single person that doesn't struggle with this at least some of the time. It is one of those things in life that if not kept in check, runs away with our heart's affections and mental attitude. Isn't it interesting how when we are asked to speak about, teach about or counsel on a particular subject, it is often the very area that we need to grow in!! That is where I found myself this week. I was presented with a particular problem by someone I am discipling. I do have a strong opinion (of course) on their situation, and I would really like to step in and take matters into my own hands; however, as I prayed for them; prayed for the situation; prayed for what I should say; prayed for how I should proceed...the Father asked me one thing, "What do you think I want to be the lasting lesson in this?" WOW....the lasting lesson. To "solve" the problem would not really be lasting. There would be other similar things that would quickly come along. Life is just like that....one thing after another... The only thing that is constant is God. Being content with our situation is always hard. In the waiting process sometimes we think we are going to waste away. However, God uses the processes of making us wait and helping us find satisfaction as tools to grow us into His likeness. They are tools that sharpen us and mold us for service to Him. If we always want something, whether it be an item of some sort or a change, when will we ever be truly satisfied? Satisfaction only comes when we decide to have thankful hearts that praise Him in all situations at all times. We have a friend that is in prison. Matt took his wife, children, sister and mother to visit him this week. I am ashamed to say that the report I was expecting to get was of how hard it is for him, how he is struggling, etc. Instead, the report that came was one of praise to the Lord for His goodness. He gave Matt a beaded pen holder covered in crosses that he had made. He is boldly sharing his faith in everything he is doing; and in faith walking with a thankful heart in his difficult circumstance. WOW....that is the lasting lesson!! What will I choose today - thankfulness & contentment? AT "We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;....Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal." II Corin. 4:8-9; 16-18

May Flowers

Is the month of May really almost over? Wow, it seems like it has been non-stop! The month started a little rough. As I mentioned in my last post, we were all quite ill at Easter. However, we pushed through and have been running all month. The first weekend, I attended a local ladies' conference. It was about 9 hours from here...twisting through mountains and driving sometimes ridiculous roads (to American standards). I was able to sit in the front so I only "heaved" a few times - nothing traumatic!! However, it was so worth it to gather with believers and learn and grow together. These women have amazing stories. I can't wait to share them with those that are interested!! (Fall 2012 - now scheduling!) We returned on Mother's Day. My sweet family had the house cleaned and had found a nice table and chair set for the balcony. On the 10th, I celebrated my 35th birthday! WOW! I now have to move up a level in my face cream, but at least by company standards I am allowed to weigh more!! (YEAH!) The second weekend, we had locals from our first city in country fly over for a visit. It was so wonderful to reconnect. Praise the Lord for language growth as I was able to share more of my faith. We also attended the local fellowship together. There is nothing like hearing truth from people that know your background. I am so thankful to be a part of this special group. The third weekend, we took a trip out of the city. We traveled straight up into the mountains - 5 hours from here about a mile above sea level. It was an amazing 3 days. We climbed all over the biggest castle any of us have ever seen. We rode a ferry out to an island that had a monastery from 700AD. Grace's big event of the weekend was a trip to a cat reservation. There are only 300 pure Van cats left on the planet. The university in Van is now trying to preserve the breed. Honestly, I think they are a little freaky looking, but Grace enjoyed herself. You can Google it if interested. We have pictures on facebook of all these weekends. The kids have one more week of homeschool; however, we will continue having our language tutor through the summer. The kids are now working on language books with the grade levels they just finished in American school. (2nd & 3rd) I am so proud of them! May has been a wonderful and exciting month for the Travis family. We pray you all enjoy a wonderful Memorial Weekend and the start to an amazing summer.

I just wanted to catch everyone up; sorry this blog was a bit random....I love wild flowers! AT

Easter 2011

Well, I had hoped to post all the exciting things that we had planned to do over the Easter weekend; however, William spiked a 104 fever on Friday night and it was all downhill from there. We have all "caught" something. We had to cancel our plans with local friends and only Matt was able to attend the special church service in a neighboring city. We still rejoice and proclaim.....BLESSED BE YOUR NAME!! Sooooooo; we basically had an "at home-in PJs" Easter. There will be no pictures of the family all "spiffed-up". We are really glad that our church program was last weekend. The kids worked so hard I would have hated for them to have missed it. You can check out photos on Matt's facebook page. I am also really glad that we have been celebrating and doing activities for Easter for 2 weeks. It would have been a big bummer if we had saved everything for this weekend! Lollie (Matt's sister) gave the kids some special egg "markers". They did muster the energy to do 2 eggs each before they wanted to lie back down. We still plan to color eggs next weekend with some locals that have never done it before. We are also going to be sharing our 12 Resurrection Eggs with them. William's big present was a game for the computer and Grace's was a new "little pony". Poor things, we put the baskets on our bed this year thinking that everyone might just want to lay down to open gifts and read scripture. We were a pitiful sight!! No chocolate bunnies this year, but the kids have changed their taste buds to the candy here so everyone was happy! (not that any of us needed sugar while ill, or trying to keep from getting ill!!) Matt still missed not having his Cadbury Creme eggs, but he's adjusting! : ) We miss each of you and pray that you all enjoyed a wonderful holiday season. Praise His Holy Name!! AT