tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7416362320103894012024-02-19T01:34:11.254-08:00Katie McGrew: Seeing JesusWhen God works in your life and changes your heart, it becomes your job to make God known and tell of the amazing things he has done! This blog is my way of sharing God's faithfulness in the journey that he has already begun in my life. I want to tell of his amazing love and how he carries out his plan.Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-71088791570310727952020-04-30T11:30:00.001-07:002020-04-30T11:30:50.884-07:00Let Me Consume Jesus More Than AnythingWilliam and I have been reading through the Daily Chronological Bible since school began in August. Our dates don't match the reading and we have picked up the pace as we realized it is not likely that we will finish before we go our separate ways. It has been so good to spend our mornings together this way, especially during his last year of high school. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Dajlf1kLqqOX1uTsQF7wnj6iOckH7THMQJqPSUaDYv2dhrm0u2xZ8zysGPG0gk_JR3O6mcwYmtyRKDtETu7RX88kA_R8z8SrWPKdlVCyv7zbe443L3hghJzRx-S9eqD2yc0Elb33NK7Q/s1600/IMG_1249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Dajlf1kLqqOX1uTsQF7wnj6iOckH7THMQJqPSUaDYv2dhrm0u2xZ8zysGPG0gk_JR3O6mcwYmtyRKDtETu7RX88kA_R8z8SrWPKdlVCyv7zbe443L3hghJzRx-S9eqD2yc0Elb33NK7Q/s320/IMG_1249.jpg" width="320" /></a>I find myself thinking on the scripture we read all through the day and the lessons we are learning. God's Word is not an easy word. It is filled with blessing and loss... the loss is so great, but God, over and over again redeems what was lost. The Bible is truly the story of redemption over and over. He is our hope and salvation.<br />
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The other day William was reading John 6:56, it says, <i>"Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him"</i>. I heard the scripture differently that day. Maybe because this version said "feeds on my flesh" and I had mostly heard "eats my flesh", I don't know, but it got my attention.<br />
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The first Sunday of every month we take communion at church and it is always said, "do this in remembrance of me". <br />
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Jesus said consume me. Consume him. Take him in. Fill ourselves with him.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5VH00bZdl2VfG_0NgZuJQ4AhGdK0IqO8ocpoi91U5y433sQc0InfQw3NenXrVKa_cBBBr3PZrLPQiqfNGeCPy4rhfFm-69hh_Mow0jkIskdoKliWlLR8GfQV5f4Mk30Jhq86Q6XbSJo2m/s1600/IMG_1426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5VH00bZdl2VfG_0NgZuJQ4AhGdK0IqO8ocpoi91U5y433sQc0InfQw3NenXrVKa_cBBBr3PZrLPQiqfNGeCPy4rhfFm-69hh_Mow0jkIskdoKliWlLR8GfQV5f4Mk30Jhq86Q6XbSJo2m/s320/IMG_1426.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We call this guy "white duck"</td></tr>
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Just after reading I noticed the ducks that were wandering all around looking for food. And then the squirrels, looking for food. That is all they do, all day long, they wander around looking for food to consume and to be filled. I think God is so please as we look all day long to consume and be filled with him. Is there anything we need more? <br />
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There is nothing on earth that I desire more than him. There is nothing and no one that fills us and satisfies us like he does. <br />
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<i>Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. </i></div>
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<i>My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. </i></div>
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<i>Psalm 73:25-26</i></div>
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God shows himself through his creation. I see him because I look for him. He says, <i>"if you look for me, you will find me, if you look for me with all your heart"</i> Jeremiah 29:13 He is speaking, just look, he wants to show you. </div>
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Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-41519395480646513572020-04-15T12:45:00.000-07:002020-04-15T12:45:10.889-07:0010 Years Ago...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM5FWBFupP8XZh_8qUzq7LPNIRbV6D7k4VusedyQoNlDX42Mu1lvZ5Pm0Yo9P7vvD5YD8pXRU2GMKj_3OiGZ0agOPFnf6LJw_1KHvbL3W1sp2qqbTwBf-b3CWTibyQWxufhjiuBtQlvB0d/s1600/IMG_1453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1279" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM5FWBFupP8XZh_8qUzq7LPNIRbV6D7k4VusedyQoNlDX42Mu1lvZ5Pm0Yo9P7vvD5YD8pXRU2GMKj_3OiGZ0agOPFnf6LJw_1KHvbL3W1sp2qqbTwBf-b3CWTibyQWxufhjiuBtQlvB0d/s320/IMG_1453.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ten years ago, April of 2010 we were busy cleaning our house and selling everything we didn't think we would want in a year when we returned from Nicaragua. Our plan was to spend a year in Nicaragua, actually, Dwight's plan was 6 months. Our plan was for such a short time because if the kids were struggling or if it wasn't a good fit for us, then we could change plans and return to the U.S.. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We rented our house furnished. We all packed two suitcases and were ready to leave for Nicaragua on June 28. The evening of the 27th we got a call from American Airlines saying our flight had been cancelled. Wait a minute I thought; we are moving to Nicaragua, our bags are packed, we have left our house, you can't cancel our flight. But they did and rescheduled us to fly out two days later.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">That is how our life has been over the last 10 years. We make a plan, and our plan, for the most part, has <i>not</i> gone at all as we expected. I think we are better for this. Our expectations are very low in expecting that anything should go as plan or want, we can pretty much 'roll with it', in every situation. We still long to have control of our lives but life itself has shown us that really the only thing we have control over is how we will respond to constant change and inconvenience. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh92oaOUD3HpnAV8W7HJ4tcZrwqvVSCc4fSFzQ0vt7_K7ffTpBo4MaUOhakYIHN9Mmqjl6Phqcjotbwp9aOOGiCPUeKxXVDnMguEOQ-8ADzCVaKtYAEmW-_fdq1ymu1G2EDlN62cTlbMoDx/s1600/IMG_3403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh92oaOUD3HpnAV8W7HJ4tcZrwqvVSCc4fSFzQ0vt7_K7ffTpBo4MaUOhakYIHN9Mmqjl6Phqcjotbwp9aOOGiCPUeKxXVDnMguEOQ-8ADzCVaKtYAEmW-_fdq1ymu1G2EDlN62cTlbMoDx/s320/IMG_3403.jpg" width="320" /></a>Life in Nicaragua has been difficult. It has often felt like sand paper wearing away every rough edge of me. I remember at that 6 month mark, when it was time for Dwight and I to decide if we would stay in or leave Nicaragua in June. It was a hard decision. The easy thing would be to say, we did a year, peace out Nicaragua. But there was no way we could say, "peace out" because there was no peace; life was hard, uncomfortable and filled with someone's tears every day. It seemed like we all took turns having sad days but God was faithful because it was never all of us at the same time. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It was clear to Dwight and I (as clear as having a sliver in your foot) that we had to stay in Nicaragua. If we left after 1 year, we would be leaving bitter, angry and very undone. We were in the middle of God working and we knew that He would be faithful to finish what He started.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I felt like God gave me a compass verse when we moved to Nicaragua:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom."</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>2 Corinthians 3:17 </b> </span></span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I knew He wanted me to keep this verse in front of me always so I would know if I was walking where He was; because where He is, there is freedom.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Little did we know all that was to come. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM09al78kKs2plvaTSbt3G4We94Hgwc3rZXuW8BJ9oryC6nrUsSouytsqEIUZQ8TejLI_DV15EVi3fsU_W4BIwAqkXqi7Juyz8wLuU_d5IipgA_f8-vHylX63fTkuEvXZDaqBV4PZW4GHc/s1600/IMG_3176.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM09al78kKs2plvaTSbt3G4We94Hgwc3rZXuW8BJ9oryC6nrUsSouytsqEIUZQ8TejLI_DV15EVi3fsU_W4BIwAqkXqi7Juyz8wLuU_d5IipgA_f8-vHylX63fTkuEvXZDaqBV4PZW4GHc/s320/IMG_3176.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">I can say I wouldn't change a thing in my life because through the difficulties He has shown me over and over again that he is good, he is faithful and he makes me strong when I am weak. </span> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span></span>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-56131910433196526792020-04-11T20:08:00.000-07:002020-04-11T20:08:09.372-07:00All Losses Are LossAbout a month ago, during a small group meeting, my friend Kelly began to cry as she was realizing that maybe our boy's graduation wouldn't happen as we had hoped and imagined it would. Inside I thought, "well that is fine, they'll still finish high school and move onto college, what's the big deal?" Then Amanda, our usual voice of reason, wisdom, no-nonsense and not a lot of emotion says, "all losses are loss Kelly, of course you are sad". I considered again my response.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7qLcUrdBjC8kCn9E6Ex7Vcu1-UIH4NGtmubF0qvPC3X3TkzMiaufxuPCwqrrZ5xdwIbXIJ9bMo7KYAfhLDdbOOWeS9paoxnqfXzhmjYiCnretrUQEdFhhmejsUc_yIHWwAen4VsLgBLRK/s1600/53560147_10217291295289644_8881380708950474752_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="958" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7qLcUrdBjC8kCn9E6Ex7Vcu1-UIH4NGtmubF0qvPC3X3TkzMiaufxuPCwqrrZ5xdwIbXIJ9bMo7KYAfhLDdbOOWeS9paoxnqfXzhmjYiCnretrUQEdFhhmejsUc_yIHWwAen4VsLgBLRK/s320/53560147_10217291295289644_8881380708950474752_n.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My beautiful small group</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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We talked about lament and praise, and that when we are healthy they will go hand in hand. Being a faith-filled person does not mean, that we will not experience sadness and disappointment; it means, that when we experience sadness and disappointment we can still praise the Lord.<br />
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The thing I am most confident of in all of my life, is that God is always good. Even when things are falling apart, when life is painful and it is not how I hoped it would be; God is still and always good. He has cemented this truth in my life and I am so thankful. This truth keeps me strong, it keeps me confident to walk towards him everyday and to not doubt who He is.<br />
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I have realized something about me though, I do not like sadness. I am quick to turn sadness to hope or justice, and skip grieving. WHY? I am afraid. What if I get stuck in sadness?<br />
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Getting stuck is very possible, IF I fix my eyes on the sadness and disappointment. But I know God is my Refuge, he is my Stronghold, he is my Rock. He is always waiting for me to say His name. And in that moment He will pull me up out of the mud and place my feet on dry and solid ground. That is just how he is. I don't have to be afraid of disappointment and sadness because as I take time to be sad and feel loss, I can grieve and confess that this is not how I wanted it, then I can hand it to God (screaming and crying if I want) and He will take my pain, He will take the disappointment and He will change it into a testimony of how great He is.<br />
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I have also learned it is so good to confess my sadness and disappointment to a friend, this action keeps me from hiding and covering up what could become harmful. James 5:16 says, "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective". I have kept many things locked deep in me because I didn't want to share, simply because I didn't want others to try and fix everything. I have learned from this verse and Celebrate Recovery, that we need faithful friends in our lives that we can confess our sins and heartbreaks to and they will respond by taking it to the Lord in prayer. Healing is waiting because God is good.<br />
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Over and over again God gives me more than I could have asked for or imagined. He doesn't do things the way I would, his way is so much more incredible than anything I could have imagined or than any fix someone else could offer. It doesn't always mean it is nice and easy or comfortable, but His way will always leave us with a story to share that grows our confidence of how good He is. Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-55555891393090014942019-08-01T10:16:00.000-07:002019-08-01T11:28:16.280-07:00Time to Start Writing Again...<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I stopped writing this blog a long time ago... I was tired of others always knowing what was going on in my life and with my family, well... tired of the ones that used my experience in a negative way. But when I stopped writing because of the negative motives of one, I kept the testimony of God's goodness from so many others.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If my story can be an encouragement then I want to share, if my story will help someone know Jesus more then I want to share, if my story brings glory to God then for sure I want to share. So I will try to share how I see Him working every single day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I have learned a secret that leads to contentment... I believe contentment waits for us in gratitude and serving others. Apart from these two things it is very difficult to have a lasting peace in your heart. I have become a bit predictable in the groups I lead, there is one question that I feel is important... How have you seen God at work today? This is a question I started asking a long time ago because I wanted to know Jesus intimately. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Jeremiah 29:13 says, "if you look for me, you will find me, if you look for me with all of your heart". I thought, that's fine, but what do you look like? James 1:17 says, "every good and perfect thing is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows"... ok, every good thing. If I look with all my heart for the good things that happen every day and give all the glory to God, then He will show more of himself to me. It seemed simple enough and teaching others how to look for Him over the last 10 years has changed lives.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We get so caught up in other things. Things that seem so important, but the truth, as I try know Jesus more, is that there is nothing more important than him. If I put anything before being able to thank him and see him at all times, then I am missing him. I don't want to miss him. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRFyAukNS-wTbCcFwmjMeavuJDabn32dJ4rBRFcT6Bthf-BeumhO47SI3DwEU1oV7ppChtZyxMft2GrUtfQRyeJLRINJ45M2xzZ8k5feT9sKcvMD4VApTymXSr3B79NKEKPsOA-LOmhXCl/s1600/IMG_1255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRFyAukNS-wTbCcFwmjMeavuJDabn32dJ4rBRFcT6Bthf-BeumhO47SI3DwEU1oV7ppChtZyxMft2GrUtfQRyeJLRINJ45M2xzZ8k5feT9sKcvMD4VApTymXSr3B79NKEKPsOA-LOmhXCl/s640/IMG_1255.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The beauty that is outside my back door. </span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLTHi9nSTCJ6gE6Otdm_1OOWWNisOLJiz57F09rf6t1nYOTv_VRtKKdezN7G3jjWATMYu55Vv49Q9LP2jZ7lOnVeqX72CrIyshVP1ZdPWZxambpdaUTA3KFkVKX5R9QrMOCHj8HtYswdRJ/s1600/IMG_7150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLTHi9nSTCJ6gE6Otdm_1OOWWNisOLJiz57F09rf6t1nYOTv_VRtKKdezN7G3jjWATMYu55Vv49Q9LP2jZ7lOnVeqX72CrIyshVP1ZdPWZxambpdaUTA3KFkVKX5R9QrMOCHj8HtYswdRJ/s640/IMG_7150.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">These tomatoes planted themselves from the compost we used in the garden.</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-55571747820421452522014-10-10T16:58:00.000-07:002014-10-10T16:58:51.550-07:00A Hearts DesireWhen we first moved to Nicaragua, Dwight and I said we would stay for at least 1 year. We would decide after 6 months, (January 2011) if we would stay longer. Our visas required us to leave the country in December 2010 so we traveled to Costa Rica for a few days. I jumped the gun and asked Josh and Maggie how they were feeling about staying longer than a year in Nicaragua. TEARS. We were in a tropical paradise and my kids were sobbing at the dinner table. Maggie wanted to be with family and friends and Josh just wanted to be playing hockey. Sobbing...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWvhdGVn4LInEUWoiMUpzI9-eyXaV8Qjb2tt5G8WFZpEpSHrn32zQ6nPSI8qFHE1Gc14fcq-9j-jJyCiOXvKufnj6gJgl4OMuNcKeTKuyj14OYMUqj66UKy_NaIV1D5DMsy3LaNJxeXx0c/s1600/hockey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWvhdGVn4LInEUWoiMUpzI9-eyXaV8Qjb2tt5G8WFZpEpSHrn32zQ6nPSI8qFHE1Gc14fcq-9j-jJyCiOXvKufnj6gJgl4OMuNcKeTKuyj14OYMUqj66UKy_NaIV1D5DMsy3LaNJxeXx0c/s1600/hockey.jpg" height="323" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Josh was the Captain of his team before leaving</td></tr>
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It was one of those moments when I thought I had made a horrible mistake to take them away from Edmonds.<br />
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<b>Delight yourself in the Lord,</b></div>
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<b>and He will give you the desires of your heart.</b></div>
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<b>Psalm 37:4</b></div>
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Josh, Maggie and Will wouldn't trade their time growing up in Nicaragua. They know what they have given up but they feel they have gained so much more than they could have ever hoped for. They feel they have been saved from many pressures from North American culture and gained a world perspective that a book, movie or vacation could have ever given. </div>
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They have learned to love and depend on God in quiet and lonely moments. They have learned to worship Him and that He truly is water unto their souls. My kids love the Lord with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. Why? Because He is real and He has sustained them and made them thrive.</div>
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Josh graduated in June and went immediately to the USA to work and prepare to attend the University of Washington. It wasn't his first choice of schools but as we see all that God had in store for Him, we know it was Gods perfect choice for him. He never gave up the identity of a hockey player or lost his passion.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2T9BleEWDI2X9OUo02GNOK3vosNlHFwqkEo_2uEThFg0kqu7MYaT9lUnTkERQjXxuUKiHDg9GtW8Q5wps000raEW2LTisoNkU5ZCsrY9SmWlK8zhq0_7jkMvG-mT1rt6b1y2kVNFCjbEw/s1600/DSC_0184_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2T9BleEWDI2X9OUo02GNOK3vosNlHFwqkEo_2uEThFg0kqu7MYaT9lUnTkERQjXxuUKiHDg9GtW8Q5wps000raEW2LTisoNkU5ZCsrY9SmWlK8zhq0_7jkMvG-mT1rt6b1y2kVNFCjbEw/s1600/DSC_0184_2.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of his senior pictures taken in Nicaragua</td></tr>
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He investigated the UW Hockey team immediately and met with the coach. We talked in June and he said that tryouts were September 17,18 and 19 and that he would work hard all summer so he could participate. He met with the coach and was told that, for the least he would be able to help with the organization of the team. The coach gave him the opportunity to get on the ice with the team and that night gave him a number, his number 14, and said welcome to the Husky Ice Hockey team.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPUlQcKBTitYVn9kD3ScBRk443mQYbSIgjm1swyVHP2jvOtk7vIrt2MJmXnpUiau3NxNi0vc9Ky8Hu2CQkZBh5MX2KPfbYABUY0YFPdbunls29vAqAzfNF6oe8cxkXkHfleOK184Sk3x0O/s1600/IMG_9449.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPUlQcKBTitYVn9kD3ScBRk443mQYbSIgjm1swyVHP2jvOtk7vIrt2MJmXnpUiau3NxNi0vc9Ky8Hu2CQkZBh5MX2KPfbYABUY0YFPdbunls29vAqAzfNF6oe8cxkXkHfleOK184Sk3x0O/s1600/IMG_9449.jpeg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">Last weekend playing again WSU<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">It was more than a few times that tears were shed because of the loss of hockey. Not just from Josh but all of us mourned the loss of the sport that we loved and excitement in our lives. I remember Josh saying he would never be able to play again, "only with old men and there would be no competition". I knew he was right. How could I have done that to him? What could I say but lean into God, he will fill the void.</span></div>
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God allowed a void so that , yes Josh would lean into Him, but also at just the right time He could do what only God could do and restore Josh's dream and passion, with an opportunity to play on a team, competitive hockey!</div>
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What can I say? Josh delighted himself in the Lord, he has lived well, hasn't complained and God has given him the desire of his heart.</div>
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Thank you Jesus for loving and lavishing upon my son. Now please Lord I would like to ask you to be with him always on the ice and knock the guys down before they can ever get to Josh, can I ask that? </div>
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Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-63774006218013959942012-03-06T17:04:00.003-08:002012-03-06T17:32:47.010-08:00How Can They Grow So Fast?<div style="text-align: center;">Josh got on a bus today to travel 24 hours to Panama City, Panama. He will be gone until the 14th of March participating in a conference called HACIA Democracy (Harvard Association Cultivating Inter-American Democracy). He is a Nicaraguan delegate, representing the U.S. on their stand on gun control. He has studied and now will discuss and argue with others about this topic.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsng4cfU4mGRH_GwZ8YjaBYSwPzU7XfBWa2KZRdtuA5DG_TMarc7cKxTjpu5lzoIlsHc2HoG5stGEXXmJRnIjCvm_Dq3rWR4nST-q9j9LPzRaKeM0TL66UaS9S9CmTc4TRVz1fetYyWqeL/s400/IMG_5431.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716961247129756514" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div>Dwight said to me yesterday, as we are packing his suit, how did he grow up so fast? And my question was, did we do a good enough job, what have we missed? </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYnjLbzIWTW74Erd1dxytBQm4XC04Eb6Pr9LAxwZJ4ljqscDlpX5mqURXMmd_6gboj35VYGkSgURmbHvnkaGabxeiXBqMn9s46AivZ6IPI5EKe1g_sSJkfRTDg181Xga6leMIohPXQsZo/s400/IMG_5437.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716961232627312802" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div>The time with our kids is so short and I am so thankful to know that every minute of their lives God has been right there loving them, teaching them and protecting them. They love Him and that is all I could ever want. I am so proud of each one of them.</div><div><br /></div><div>They don't spend so much time cuddling together but I know they love each other and desire the best for one another. They always support each other in their work, fun and dreams. They other night we were all sharing our dreams and one thing I appreciated so much was that they ALL had dreams!!!! They all want to travel and go on great adventures. They are amazing. </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic30ddHCSp6WS6CGSIe0Yp2c-YnoXfDI3Pk2FVsyp7yMpTJmY8woYN03VQEybtSIocTkjMXq1caMwrq4ml1-Z5DOia-6NXTwvR8D_qr0mbiRdmWFUcpHKUkqEtFX8J46IZofggsE9hqUkw/s400/IMG_5434.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716961227499478050" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div>I know a big part of who they are is because we are away from all that is normal, easy and comfortable. They know the poor, have experienced loneliness and have longed to be with family. God knows the desires of their hearts and will continue to bless them as they walk in His perfect path.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ok, that's a little about the kids. Thank you for your prayers. We love you and are so thankful for you all!</div><div><br /></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-42402939790116158352012-02-04T07:26:00.000-08:002012-02-04T08:51:04.368-08:00a message from Josh...<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh40NMdlVXmfjiSvV884Pzj0nv4nrgqsVJaFw5i1Yh4dDNl_WB52H4HSZJqO0HoX2HB8EGAoEEbi3LSQ-OscU5I8zV629c96hYJ6eT4T3GJB1wN36fAhckJa_m_A3cpBHZgl9RFzu4t-u-i/s1600/IMG_5191.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh40NMdlVXmfjiSvV884Pzj0nv4nrgqsVJaFw5i1Yh4dDNl_WB52H4HSZJqO0HoX2HB8EGAoEEbi3LSQ-OscU5I8zV629c96hYJ6eT4T3GJB1wN36fAhckJa_m_A3cpBHZgl9RFzu4t-u-i/s400/IMG_5191.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5705311328361823298" /></a><br />Dear Friends,<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>The month of January was quite a busy month with school starting up again, Basketball starting, and really, just getting back into the swing of things, coming off of a month of Christmas vacation! </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Going back to school was tough! The teachers decided to hit us right of the bat with big loads of homework, and also, I resumed my HACIA practices.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>HACIA Democracy is a simulation of the OAS (Organization of Amercian States), organized by Harvard University. They prepare an annual conference, this year located in Panama, where students from all over the western hemisphere gather to practice debate, diplomacy, and consensus building. I am a part of the 15 student team from my school that will travel in March to participate in the conference in Panama.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>To prepare for the conference, I have been going to weekly practice sessions, writing multiple papers, and meeting with my assigned advisor on Fridays to help with certain debate strategies and topic preparation.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Apart from HACIA, Basketball started up again on Monday. We are in the middle of tryouts, and will know who made the team by next Monday! Practices are very rigorous, consisting of many suicide drills, and numerous sets of pushups! What a great way to get back into shape!</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>On the 27th, we had our Spiritual Emphasis day at school, a day set aside for spiritual refreshment for the students and staff. It was such a great day, something I very much needed.</div><div>Without our wonderful church home, it has been very hard for me to feel filled up and on that day, I felt full again and encouraged! I'm currently reading the book of Joshua and it is just really neat to know why I was named what I was named! </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Mom leaves to go home on wednesday, so please be praying that everything works out well while she is gone! Thank you all for your support and prayers!</div><div><br /></div><div>~Josh</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfT8S2UN73S-JLRyxUMz2yqC3SuqZtEDpTotnnGpu2hh4xmuJhqGIFsqw8NTwJOswfGCHYS7F866g8U0FuSqtUkg714VO6rQh8HuSB586LGAZA7t6pSniIc_ZXbTbbqUMA_NsqdLQYhMvM/s1600/IMG_4137.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfT8S2UN73S-JLRyxUMz2yqC3SuqZtEDpTotnnGpu2hh4xmuJhqGIFsqw8NTwJOswfGCHYS7F866g8U0FuSqtUkg714VO6rQh8HuSB586LGAZA7t6pSniIc_ZXbTbbqUMA_NsqdLQYhMvM/s400/IMG_4137.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5705308228878184770" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">P.S. Towards the end of January, I participated in my second Triathlon and took fourth place among guy students! I beat my time form last year by 45 seconds!</span><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBIDBI8t7w5-tgVxbTLmMlOoyB2fKyYq90IjD9DnWJxjdD-kwBrWwW9ghu-14SGK9fAYx3SVBsRMpwt-KCOvY6yHSJNKlOVFkLWW8FkNj__VJ2nAzAbGYYL4IB0JpMMUkR3uSSyA4wndS/s400/IMG_4365.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5705317657507468578" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div></div><div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-14459857614476982432012-01-29T10:06:00.000-08:002012-01-29T10:42:05.861-08:00Yes! We are still here...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3xf9VKhgeFIQb9JmBJCz1vzM6EslEszjA7Ahmg_pMgG3eQ_6SzJ14AAhDMoYsYSKcChwYKNfrVn3Zxa1I_ASTCLlZrytTYxXWIf25WFKWr6NDQi2RBgS65H1iBrNe5_bA-26KhzaXNrK1/s1600/IMG_4741.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 278px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3xf9VKhgeFIQb9JmBJCz1vzM6EslEszjA7Ahmg_pMgG3eQ_6SzJ14AAhDMoYsYSKcChwYKNfrVn3Zxa1I_ASTCLlZrytTYxXWIf25WFKWr6NDQi2RBgS65H1iBrNe5_bA-26KhzaXNrK1/s400/IMG_4741.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703123668349556114" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh75sUwyl-RqJr-Fno54b_-7Q_5SZh1FI_rA_h5T_soWUTNWlnVCfCEuweoKa6j6qdq5KoPY4Et30KsPSiYx7OY6iu47nf85lsetxWbodFFMi5ATGmEsBx_kN-E3WMUYKhK0ePbRkYX0wk2/s1600/IMG_5146.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 236px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh75sUwyl-RqJr-Fno54b_-7Q_5SZh1FI_rA_h5T_soWUTNWlnVCfCEuweoKa6j6qdq5KoPY4Et30KsPSiYx7OY6iu47nf85lsetxWbodFFMi5ATGmEsBx_kN-E3WMUYKhK0ePbRkYX0wk2/s400/IMG_5146.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703119445279135298" /></a>I apologize that it has been so long since I updated the blog. At times it seems so funny to write just about our life and then it seems like so much has happened and where do I begin??? I remind myself, I just have to begin...<div><br /></div><div>I love the opportunities God gives us living in Nicaragua. I love that I have the opportunity to do ministry with North Americans! This picture was taken in Granada with a team from Allendale Church in St. Petersburg, Florida. I had a good laugh as I watched from a bench as they found their way through the city. This team put on a Vacation Bible Camp in the week that they were in Nicaragua. The VBS was for kids from the neighborhood surrounding the Villa. We had 35 kids in the morning and 15 teens in the afternoon ~ it was great! The team was challenged as they gave the salvation message. Why is that so difficult? If we truly believe that their is salvation and eternal life in Jesus alone and if He has changed our lives ~ shouldn't we be thrilled to share all that we know?<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgACpyFN11ydOmSy12TFeH7lgieHhT9HFfo3_zsCZK802fzY5EC-STkvxXdaDgmH8NUxmFrv1FsNUbu5zcmwEmjqNaNy40F2P0j8LPh-1OAfzp_YC1QzjJDBflK-zFXkAKdgdJLu7TUnamP/s1600/IMG_4023.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgACpyFN11ydOmSy12TFeH7lgieHhT9HFfo3_zsCZK802fzY5EC-STkvxXdaDgmH8NUxmFrv1FsNUbu5zcmwEmjqNaNy40F2P0j8LPh-1OAfzp_YC1QzjJDBflK-zFXkAKdgdJLu7TUnamP/s400/IMG_4023.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703119440262217810" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxxXBV88e8z-waevs_Y6rNHA60B-elu9pnHBL1892Svo-MjSVqxy3CP6C_V2q407kkwfxQzij_7aN94c09OpWblwhcFtqSYmLuD35FTpJsKbbsPWdAwnUJhL9Ctmvio1fFFi8-NUcoJ6G/s1600/IMG_4512.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxxXBV88e8z-waevs_Y6rNHA60B-elu9pnHBL1892Svo-MjSVqxy3CP6C_V2q407kkwfxQzij_7aN94c09OpWblwhcFtqSYmLuD35FTpJsKbbsPWdAwnUJhL9Ctmvio1fFFi8-NUcoJ6G/s400/IMG_4512.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703118505173599442" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlVssUpSFYJ99dPLWcWKnx0t4CLeSTVNm2IGXc-NG-O8hXniu34oCnyHYHpVf3ebNmPZg_SPU7NirkJsMETHb2oKCLdAyw4ZXWQoAsRKeU3_CJMPaY9sy-ygQKZA5qZr-iv-hzGPHHjUB/s400/IMG_4403.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703118500679713250" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000ee;"><br /></span>Erminia and Scarleth participated in the VBS and had a great time!</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Erminia and Scarleth are sisters that live at the Villa. In December their mom, Angela, passed away. In the month leading to her death the girls and I visited her in the hospital several times. Each visit we saw God do great things. Our saying together was "God is the owner of this hospital and He wants us to be with Anglea". There are strict rules at the hospital and even one visit should not have been allowed but every time we were permitted to spend time with Angela and each visit the girls learned to say thank you to God that He allowed us to pass through.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNY-EQ4nMS3JHmK4GjaGLuEWKWiJye1Bya2fU4VzJjNYZfUFOHlr4iw4AgbdohhMDIl8QXSd9AQpTbnuj5VNiWhI27uPOvVjdwgm5Y7p-D19m0Zu1A-lomFlDdsOCRgsUFZWBYq8InFkck/s400/IMG_3880.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703123663592495922" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><div><br /></div></span></span><div>Here's some highlights from the last few months:</div><div><br /></div><div>Visits from Grandpa Dan, Tamara Nelson and my mom.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Josh was accepted to a program called HACIA Democracy. There is a link at the bottom to read more about this.</div><div><br /></div><div>Quince's (15 year birthday party) for Guissel Nohemi, Monica and Diana.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our family traveled to Costa Rica in December to renew our visas, we had a great time together!</div><div><br /></div><div>Josh and Maggie both have higher that 97% in school and William is right close behind that with 85%! </div><div><br /></div><div>We added a chocoyo (parrot) named Raulito and a kitten named Kai to our family. </div><div><br /></div><div>We are keeping busy and continue to learn every day. God is good and has provided for all our needs. We trust him daily to live and serve in Nicaragua. </div><div><br /></div><div>I will be home in February for two weeks to participate in a Forward Edge facilitators training weekend and then to visit with many friends and share with many what God is doing in Nicaragua.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you for loving us and always remembering us... </div><div><a href="http://www.haciademocracy.org/english/"> http://www.haciademocracy.org/english/</a> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-35481509179457059202011-07-28T22:32:00.000-07:002011-07-28T22:35:28.245-07:00A New Car and my dear kids.....We are on the look out for a new car. Would you pray with us that God shows us the right car, at the right time and that we would be ready.<div><br /></div><div>Please pray for Josh and Maggie that their final weekend in the U.S. would be a huge blessing and that God would be the One preparing their hearts to join us on Tuesday. </div><div><br /></div><div>We are always thanking God for each of you.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-66289685877698064912011-07-25T11:45:00.000-07:002011-07-25T13:17:09.315-07:00We're home...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicmdy-BwLrePxxOZH7Pov2qROpPdX-qKfVFPYiO_Kp_aBMSYnfkvNqJMXaWgVtoELHx2BMaR7Y4x0X7uLv0Ja4qzvsu9wPas8KL1nvuRD3nKYtuH_bkX7JG3yfHwjHEwC1UAqzE4UI95_A/s1600/IMG_3043.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicmdy-BwLrePxxOZH7Pov2qROpPdX-qKfVFPYiO_Kp_aBMSYnfkvNqJMXaWgVtoELHx2BMaR7Y4x0X7uLv0Ja4qzvsu9wPas8KL1nvuRD3nKYtuH_bkX7JG3yfHwjHEwC1UAqzE4UI95_A/s400/IMG_3043.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633385273703096482" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />I had a great expectation ~ that when we went home to the United States it would be like exhaling after a year of new things, new relationships and new situations. As it turned out that exhale didn't come until we returned to Nicaragua. It is good to be home.<div><br /></div><div>It was such a strange, almost surreal thing being home in Edmonds. When we started our car insurance, the people told us our insurance would be more because as missionaries we are riskier, really? But as it turned out, maybe they are right. My first day driving I almost got in a fight in the Costco parking lot. I moved my car a little when there was a couple walking near by and the man started hitting on my car, came to the passenger window, yelling at me. Really I was a little heart broken, I didn't understand why he was so angry. I saw so many impatient people and had a sense of an attitude of "it is my right". </div><div><br /></div><div>One day Dwight and I were at a store at U Village and I saw a bracelet made from wooden beads and magazine beads, they wanted $48 for it! This type of bead I have been trying to make with the girls in the Villa, we have also been finding seeds from the Guanacaste tree to make into jewelry. Our bracelets will look the same. I think what got me that day was that the price tag said "made in Cambodia", and I couldn't help but wonder how much of that $48 will that person in Cambodia receive?</div><div><br /></div><div>Later we went to Starbucks and covering a whole wall was a giant picture of a man sorting through coffee beans. All you could see of the man was a straw hat and giant black arms. The question in my mind, how much does this 1 Starbucks make in 1 day and how much is that man making?</div><div><br /></div><div>All of these moments made my heart and my mind so heavy. Would I ever have understood without living in Nicaragua? Without knowing the people that are working so hard everyday just to feed their family for 1 day? I know God has not forgotten even one of these. What is He calling me to do? I don't know the answer to that yet, or how to solve anything but i know that He has asked me to walk alongside many to give them hope for today. </div><div><br /></div><div>Did I tell you yet about the amazing friends God has put in our lives? I am overwhelmed by their love and sacrifice for our family! There were a few times when I thought maybe we are crazy for having left such beautiful friendships but it has been those friendships that have pushed us and given us the confidence to live a new life. They continue to encourage us, remember us, support us and love us even from a long distance. </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjklgyARp0IszkWUcfwzPBQh7C5E3f6PoV4cSTOl47AVRc2NPvn1kVYSFUPvMx1dwC1OUGFwEo1WCo2HllttzEH3a-HTi2vgEhsICDehsXuJ7AWi-G49d7WwNwgTjQo1j-n12ozReY7P50q/s1600/IMG_2965.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjklgyARp0IszkWUcfwzPBQh7C5E3f6PoV4cSTOl47AVRc2NPvn1kVYSFUPvMx1dwC1OUGFwEo1WCo2HllttzEH3a-HTi2vgEhsICDehsXuJ7AWi-G49d7WwNwgTjQo1j-n12ozReY7P50q/s400/IMG_2965.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633382820874623266" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>I loved the moments when I could sit in a group and just listen to everyone talking....because I understood! I loved the moments that I had with different groups of women studying God's Word, listening to all that He is doing in their lives. I loved listening to Pastor Brian Boone, preach God's Word from the book of Judges ~ hard truth. I loved meals shared with good friends. I loved the lingering conversations I had with friends as we would say goodbye. I loved the hugs of so many precious people. I loved eating crab. I loved looking for whales. I loved just being together with all of you. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am so thankful for the listening ear when I was tired and couldn't make sense of things. I am so thankful for the one that said rest, don't worry, everything will be ok. I am so thankful for the delicious food that our country has, but I am not thankful for the 8 extra pounds I brought home!</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLdf1QTox4czyH4_uW1VnqLmhGPFeAs2ss7b7vFjTyASZeHZxLyiJRGMRkG6OzBi6fx6RJYHn4ZJA1-xLOjZhgSvIso2Bb89bbL0Y0S8U-ukDFrLug9tGkOcbnhV9ujInCxL9PdFRve413/s1600/IMG_2827.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLdf1QTox4czyH4_uW1VnqLmhGPFeAs2ss7b7vFjTyASZeHZxLyiJRGMRkG6OzBi6fx6RJYHn4ZJA1-xLOjZhgSvIso2Bb89bbL0Y0S8U-ukDFrLug9tGkOcbnhV9ujInCxL9PdFRve413/s400/IMG_2827.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633382819069605474" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>Josh and Maggie are still in Washington, spending the rest of their summer break! Maybe we should call it a winter break as the weather in Washington has been grey, rainy and cold. They are loving it! William, Dwight and I made our way back to Managua on July 7. A team from Edmonds was here and so we went right to work.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our dear friends Kerri and Landon stayed a few extra days. Our activities were limited as I had yet to unpack from a month away and then the radiator on our car blew up. We were without a car for several days and once it was fixed the smell of gasoline lingered. I didn't think too much about it because it had the same smell the last time we had it fixed. Dwight suspected a problem and indeed when I talked with the mechanic and he checked more closely, he discovered a leak in the fuel line. He told me to park immediately, that if I drove the car it could explode. We are starting the process of looking for a new car! We need something strong and reliable, that can carry a lot of people ~ would you pray with us that God show us the right car, at the right time and that we would have the money. Cars are very expensive in Nicaragua, so we need God's direction.</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvAUoMDvBK593pIYHp-J9tmENncUNHLfe3xtTws1KqufPEAFfwuHyIXwVCpm47rWpAKrwn8ejgL8RlSFCFOMPH9CMLrrVvdyAKSDKw5D0GQurHE9EhAL9K0yQCt5f7BVJhLeIEHHbc4R6/s400/IMG_3006.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633385269543434242" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span><div><br /></div><div>I don't want to tell you everything now.... so I will save a few stories for next time. It is good to be back. We have Landon Machado living with us and working with us until September, he is a huge blessing! I have had lot's of time to spend with the girls at the Villa, it's been good. Last night we celebrate Geyzel's 15 birthday, it was a beautiful night marked with much heart break as well. Please pray for her family.</div><div><br /></div><div>I love you all and hope today that you will look to see where God is working, because He always is and He is waiting for you to join Him! </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">John 16:24</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-57042326515248711232011-06-05T09:18:00.000-07:002011-06-05T09:54:25.804-07:00We are going home soon...In less than a week we are headed home for awhile... at one time I was just excited, excited to understand things, excited to visit and be with our dear friends, excited to have fresh, cool air, excited to be in our very own church. I am still excited but also feeling a little sad; I am sad to leave our dear friends here in Nicaragua, the warmth, the teams, the unpredictability of each day. <div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfgE6dmV1LuAL4dx1lA7qlCKjv6WKw_8Ekw2GS2MtyvyHWuI-NCTIRS4WZZYlp3PnI-bOo3dyxvU1XSiDTQYnGj1a0sAe7FoVChF0lI4HWSwHeBxlp071NdPTfKyWCubtIM3eMrepDR-y/s1600/IMG_2679.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfgE6dmV1LuAL4dx1lA7qlCKjv6WKw_8Ekw2GS2MtyvyHWuI-NCTIRS4WZZYlp3PnI-bOo3dyxvU1XSiDTQYnGj1a0sAe7FoVChF0lI4HWSwHeBxlp071NdPTfKyWCubtIM3eMrepDR-y/s400/IMG_2679.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614776781716215522" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a></div><div>I know God has good things planned for our time. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am so excited to watch Josh, Maggie and William experience their old life in the U.S.. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDIQ_qyWns6nNjYGAcaxFLqIFOeslpjefUvsWXf1nokKNezcWVfsDCZbDeatckWZMpBexZwWdCVVOsnhjvYD48qyFP3vgnEnNi9RfqvFh80k1CcTLyEsxK92QiVv67_9WXExV2opEKjaFf/s1600/IMG_2774.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDIQ_qyWns6nNjYGAcaxFLqIFOeslpjefUvsWXf1nokKNezcWVfsDCZbDeatckWZMpBexZwWdCVVOsnhjvYD48qyFP3vgnEnNi9RfqvFh80k1CcTLyEsxK92QiVv67_9WXExV2opEKjaFf/s400/IMG_2774.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614779126330804258" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I have had these strange thoughts lately, thoughts that come with a little grief. The reality that we are forever seperated from what used to be home. We have set ourselves apart from that life. Really we have no home; we cannot call Edmonds home and we are not yet at home in Nicaragua ~ where is home? The song Dwight and I had at our wedding was Sandy Patty's "Love Will Be Our Home" ~ I always giggle when I think of that song because I remember listening at our wedding and almost cringing as she went on and on in such a high pitch. Now I recognize that song was just another indication of where our lives were headed. </div><div><br /></div><div>God is good and for our entire lives has been inviting us and preparing us to serve Him...</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1AhMYALnzAp_YzPNlwcOhMx49WI2OcmqCZ0KupJc9-DqHkTvN0TraEsOuigLsWnUt6t8bvMWu16CWYJ_DgQFh4uLmKyQ114gFYo1wlBAlDR1kOpfIEzGxLbs5mb5A_h0lciVnowxf1wmB/s1600/IMG_2760.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1AhMYALnzAp_YzPNlwcOhMx49WI2OcmqCZ0KupJc9-DqHkTvN0TraEsOuigLsWnUt6t8bvMWu16CWYJ_DgQFh4uLmKyQ114gFYo1wlBAlDR1kOpfIEzGxLbs5mb5A_h0lciVnowxf1wmB/s400/IMG_2760.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614776887388377442" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I hope that Dwight, Josh, Maggie and William will have words to share what this year has been. </div><div>We cant' wait to be home with you soon and then return to the country we love...</div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-83775624818918839062011-04-10T13:14:00.000-07:002011-04-10T14:38:39.279-07:00a funny moment...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7kYSAdFUdcsT_kIUm_VdiK9Y9mThr42J2qabDtDokGcU-RA7b4Oqac0avWGHETvgSqsAoVIyoOHupswIE65P7TyXAPxaS_ht_xGKEP-GzLxXiBlQOuj_YwplsfhE4eOVWiWXmC3XXqqN/s1600/IMG_2201.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7kYSAdFUdcsT_kIUm_VdiK9Y9mThr42J2qabDtDokGcU-RA7b4Oqac0avWGHETvgSqsAoVIyoOHupswIE65P7TyXAPxaS_ht_xGKEP-GzLxXiBlQOuj_YwplsfhE4eOVWiWXmC3XXqqN/s400/IMG_2201.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594067475857447058" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsf1GrKtAcWLzgvZgkMswOzM6SftbNNMcpqMwuC3XZTRLhCHl3Z2h2t528gbIncaP2v8N4sv-BRKea7dRHn1-FVzn8PH3aGl1FqiU71LArjgDDrkRGC5IVQo0qruaVZofJkjaAfP7UDdB/s1600/IMG_2212.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><blockquote></blockquote><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsf1GrKtAcWLzgvZgkMswOzM6SftbNNMcpqMwuC3XZTRLhCHl3Z2h2t528gbIncaP2v8N4sv-BRKea7dRHn1-FVzn8PH3aGl1FqiU71LArjgDDrkRGC5IVQo0qruaVZofJkjaAfP7UDdB/s400/IMG_2212.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594064275501942834" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; font-size:18px;"><div style=""></div></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />We were at the kids school on Friday night for Maggie's performance of "The Toymaker and His Son", she played a toy bunny. It was a mime performance, telling the story of the cross, it was well done. Maggie sang a beautiful solo. I was so proud of her.</span><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">We took our friend Mario, he works at the Villa as a guard and gardener, he is a dear friend of Dwight's. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">While we were waiting for the show to start Dwight was visiting with Mario and one of the stories I overheard was Dwight telling Mario that the 'man in the black bed is a prince'. I was laughing so much and even more as I watched Mario trying so hard to understand what Dwight was saying. What Dwight wanted to tell Mario was that the man in the black t-shirt is the principal. There are so many things that </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">we miss in translation ~ but bring us many great laughs!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Praise God that Dwight's spanish tutor comes this Tuesday!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">A few highlights of our weekend.... the play with Mario was great, he invited us to visit his house on Saturday ~ it is such a gift to me when we are invited into peoples homes. Once again, they treated us so well. I colored with the kids. Mario tried to give William a rooster, but I had to decline. His wife, Sylvia shared a cooked fruit dish with us (papaya, mango, grosera, jocote, and other fruits). Mario took Dwight and the boys down into a valley to cut plantains, it was quite a hike. When they got back everyone was dripping with sweat. Mario raced into the house and told his wife "quick we need Coke with ice!" (in spanish though) He was so serious and as it turns out he was worried about Dwight and wanted to get him something cold right away. Their friendship is very dear to watch. We are so thankful for Mario. He is hardworking, a loving husband and father, he is so proud of all that he has accomplished and all that he knows. It is a gift to have him in our lives.</span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDSnnuuTCdiFdpf0itO3SPgSOWMtKZPq6uLZLBpPpgBSXtOcvKSqIjjjUuhO1V09xxJraE967o2uw2IX8psBUYmX4R1wsDOvLJabCuuzYLu7HxfsdaSkF5yhQ0glW-0aiFrk8ey8X792sP/s1600/IMG_2210.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDSnnuuTCdiFdpf0itO3SPgSOWMtKZPq6uLZLBpPpgBSXtOcvKSqIjjjUuhO1V09xxJraE967o2uw2IX8psBUYmX4R1wsDOvLJabCuuzYLu7HxfsdaSkF5yhQ0glW-0aiFrk8ey8X792sP/s400/IMG_2210.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594070529956040786" style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">We were also invited to Lizzy's birthday party on Saturday. It was a great party. There were games, a pinata, vigaron and cake! We loved being there with so many of our favorite people! At the end, Josh said "that was really good". I was so thankful for that moment. It is not easy going into a situation where you don't speak the language (well) and don't understand customs and yesterday was full of situations like that. When we finish those days and everyone is still filled with peace ~ that is a victory!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVSzkZUvju9AfmKQfJ_ogLS1V9VBdwngTbJNn45bTfgKmOLsOdovTNA41EvYrT8XlqSdi4A87kvMZdpoVaArWi037oR_hYFAkgMYEvMcxof5u9ADEKuakhpNYXGZWgLQpd14Cvz6h9FnIq/s400/IMG_2230.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594067482862614770" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The little girls from the Villa went with William, Josh and I to Lizzy's birthday party. It was fun for all of us.</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKvKVLdZR8IT0WkZI7BKCFoaKgojwGykpCpGJiwrf9LCa20gzl1w098YtuctWF_X3Fca-PgxwBMkKjsPzBzm8BqXBa_WvqJ_8531_NtBegCXj-AO6Rm6l_inU0WW8SXbUhudBHA1C7T6M/s1600/IMG_2211.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKvKVLdZR8IT0WkZI7BKCFoaKgojwGykpCpGJiwrf9LCa20gzl1w098YtuctWF_X3Fca-PgxwBMkKjsPzBzm8BqXBa_WvqJ_8531_NtBegCXj-AO6Rm6l_inU0WW8SXbUhudBHA1C7T6M/s400/IMG_2211.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594070526375454962" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKvKVLdZR8IT0WkZI7BKCFoaKgojwGykpCpGJiwrf9LCa20gzl1w098YtuctWF_X3Fca-PgxwBMkKjsPzBzm8BqXBa_WvqJ_8531_NtBegCXj-AO6Rm6l_inU0WW8SXbUhudBHA1C7T6M/s1600/IMG_2211.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">This is Mario's mom and some of her grandchildren.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKvKVLdZR8IT0WkZI7BKCFoaKgojwGykpCpGJiwrf9LCa20gzl1w098YtuctWF_X3Fca-PgxwBMkKjsPzBzm8BqXBa_WvqJ_8531_NtBegCXj-AO6Rm6l_inU0WW8SXbUhudBHA1C7T6M/s1600/IMG_2211.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOOigBEyCu4YgA6yu5P6o2DUQmJafd6gbYTwluUW7HXNS_5fKblOfB4310NoSC2VeuDU1dDzwXXXDCsvKW5dSGtYLpe_JdiiGv_jt5iq2ZM0PLjsjeUqe_bFWHf_CNFx9gLaLNchdnZFY0/s1600/IMG_2189.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOOigBEyCu4YgA6yu5P6o2DUQmJafd6gbYTwluUW7HXNS_5fKblOfB4310NoSC2VeuDU1dDzwXXXDCsvKW5dSGtYLpe_JdiiGv_jt5iq2ZM0PLjsjeUqe_bFWHf_CNFx9gLaLNchdnZFY0/s400/IMG_2189.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594070524477188146" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOOigBEyCu4YgA6yu5P6o2DUQmJafd6gbYTwluUW7HXNS_5fKblOfB4310NoSC2VeuDU1dDzwXXXDCsvKW5dSGtYLpe_JdiiGv_jt5iq2ZM0PLjsjeUqe_bFWHf_CNFx9gLaLNchdnZFY0/s1600/IMG_2189.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">This is a Martha. Every Tuesday night we have Youth Group at the Villa. We play games, sing and hear a message. This night we were sucking skittles with straws. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:21.6px;"> </span></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-47559177279736774792011-04-07T18:11:00.000-07:002011-04-07T20:02:55.853-07:00A little update...The last week has been full of moments that all of us were forced to rely completely on God and we were reminded, again, that as much as we try ~ we are not in control. As much as we plan, there is One with a plan so much greater.<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPX5IUIAl8w4fEJ4lc17t2y8uL5qL2tR2Xso1qPZAqUHlCKfO6onu2p4ElqlNcj5Ftz9ookq3Geazj1SQBwZJLvq3x2OtTAZCByxuH97JoBPAtOQ1-8nkiZJruskvD1fuXPtr_TsfKUDF9/s1600/IMG_9877.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPX5IUIAl8w4fEJ4lc17t2y8uL5qL2tR2Xso1qPZAqUHlCKfO6onu2p4ElqlNcj5Ftz9ookq3Geazj1SQBwZJLvq3x2OtTAZCByxuH97JoBPAtOQ1-8nkiZJruskvD1fuXPtr_TsfKUDF9/s400/IMG_9877.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593018834474727426" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a></div><div>I don't <i>think</i> I have so much to write tonight. I just want to share some photos and tell you again that it is your prayers that are helping to fight the battle that is happening here in Nicaragua. I am so thankful to have a group of people that I can send a text message or email and I know immediately that they have stepped into the battle. </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieKdnskcx9Lt2HK9f5dLZGGm3Imv4LqZrnAij_NMNraNi04w6rqXUbGzSe9k3-iveqHoTYbH4S0zH3sX2ISS7XuFN__OdlnhgJV6KuJ0U_HSYNWDnPLXCQL63xiqECEqrjzA0pFdI6cRiI/s1600/IMG_9831.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieKdnskcx9Lt2HK9f5dLZGGm3Imv4LqZrnAij_NMNraNi04w6rqXUbGzSe9k3-iveqHoTYbH4S0zH3sX2ISS7XuFN__OdlnhgJV6KuJ0U_HSYNWDnPLXCQL63xiqECEqrjzA0pFdI6cRiI/s400/IMG_9831.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593017427001351538" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a></div><div>There was one day in November when I was working with a team in Rio Blanco, it was a long day mixing concrete and pouring a slab floor ~ it was hard work and felt so good.. I loved working so hard and using every muscle in my body. I was happy to be working with the team and was surrounded by good friends. </div><div><br /></div><div>Out of the blue, I was hit with a serious spirit of discouragement. I physically felt a weight on me and wanted to sit and cry. But if I cried at that moment I would have wailed because of the weight that I felt on my body. It was a moment that I was able to identify that Satan wanted to hurt me. Maybe not just hurt me but devour me, like the Bible says in 1 Peter 5:8 "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">lion, </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">looking</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> for </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">someone</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> to </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">devour</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">."</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I was thankful to be able to identify the reality of the battle. And I was thankful that I was not alone. I was able to ask some dear friends to pray that the heaviness would be lifted. The amazing thing.... within an hour of sending that message, I was free. <span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;font-size:16px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdimOgwDXWe_dorVbYicOBuKUfE2goZ4xHg6pzzsoNejpV1TKnhrh3O3r8d9pTpTCj_cn0SxFFKVWsrRi3GtwKnKcutXQUdeS6kv99naK8_VwBQ9l_BTkEKpauzDEu9HyEJmx90LINy5U8/s1600/IMG_2166.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdimOgwDXWe_dorVbYicOBuKUfE2goZ4xHg6pzzsoNejpV1TKnhrh3O3r8d9pTpTCj_cn0SxFFKVWsrRi3GtwKnKcutXQUdeS6kv99naK8_VwBQ9l_BTkEKpauzDEu9HyEJmx90LINy5U8/s400/IMG_2166.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593015767503072962" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdimOgwDXWe_dorVbYicOBuKUfE2goZ4xHg6pzzsoNejpV1TKnhrh3O3r8d9pTpTCj_cn0SxFFKVWsrRi3GtwKnKcutXQUdeS6kv99naK8_VwBQ9l_BTkEKpauzDEu9HyEJmx90LINy5U8/s1600/IMG_2166.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;">This is a picture of my dear friend Raquel. She lives in Leon. Her baby was born March 28 ~ a baby girl 9 1/2lbs, Esperanza Sarai.<br /></span></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5k_RGrs_ktStyc6k7ltHaSOb2y-D7XQt20wpJAWo4dddmAC-JZHrYGRHtalACviOo4OlQXTGlIiVcy_7FIbvZiaNS0WqfuYRhlHoXyAp5mqCGxCtIud15wdd51DGRAFBeaXfOBaA8upW-/s1600/IMG_7350.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5k_RGrs_ktStyc6k7ltHaSOb2y-D7XQt20wpJAWo4dddmAC-JZHrYGRHtalACviOo4OlQXTGlIiVcy_7FIbvZiaNS0WqfuYRhlHoXyAp5mqCGxCtIud15wdd51DGRAFBeaXfOBaA8upW-/s400/IMG_7350.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593018834169607954" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is Mama Sandra and Xochilt. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Xochilt's family took her out of the Villa in November. This week she came back to the Villa because her parents realized that they cannot care for her the way she was cared for in the Villa and give her the future that they want for her. Xochilt returned to the Villa Esperanza on Monday afternoon! It was so humbling to sit with her parents as they explained the reasons they cannot have her. I was so proud of them for desiring the best for her. Her mom, Raquel was so proud as she told us that Xochilt wants to be a teacher, she is so proud of who her daughter is, so are we! We are so thankful to have Xochilt with us, would you pray for the readjustment and also for her mom and dad as they adjust again to being with out their sweet daughter.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8flo6nYnxiSxmf3GdTNOtwEx0_yvrJT7mjs98NpWIOOpTLKcwnd4Y8_RhsMtrnFok22Jrsu2KAU97hyphenhyphen3di6pasOpAgZLZBH169s7VIZBTYclcMYu5el2JlNeV3hKyatWNLR_JAdKmi2D/s1600/IMG_2175.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8flo6nYnxiSxmf3GdTNOtwEx0_yvrJT7mjs98NpWIOOpTLKcwnd4Y8_RhsMtrnFok22Jrsu2KAU97hyphenhyphen3di6pasOpAgZLZBH169s7VIZBTYclcMYu5el2JlNeV3hKyatWNLR_JAdKmi2D/s400/IMG_2175.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593017422884218738" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8flo6nYnxiSxmf3GdTNOtwEx0_yvrJT7mjs98NpWIOOpTLKcwnd4Y8_RhsMtrnFok22Jrsu2KAU97hyphenhyphen3di6pasOpAgZLZBH169s7VIZBTYclcMYu5el2JlNeV3hKyatWNLR_JAdKmi2D/s1600/IMG_2175.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>Dwight, Josh and William with our friends; Raquel, Yarixa, Steven, Jose and Stephanie.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6DSwawwD1_y3LMJAP80edn-7Dvh21IMrvw_6MZXIKXLHpeuiMBpdpl9sQlmS3eXGRqIdMnHvZVi7f4bkU-G6iSZqdMm2rXIQ4D896qsp_-eswyavjmcz1CxqrprDnfvf7ALJjekQyGwu_/s1600/IMG_9867.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6DSwawwD1_y3LMJAP80edn-7Dvh21IMrvw_6MZXIKXLHpeuiMBpdpl9sQlmS3eXGRqIdMnHvZVi7f4bkU-G6iSZqdMm2rXIQ4D896qsp_-eswyavjmcz1CxqrprDnfvf7ALJjekQyGwu_/s400/IMG_9867.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593017430938171106" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a></div><div>We were invited to a wedding in Leon. We felt so honored to be a part of the day.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNCQBAg9FHlgIaBoyBTYNixbSqeWqOc5l1zPB2yT0uyFnTDF05rKIK43FtgQ7Eq6Km85LMS1Q0bgrFpaPBDQkPC1oGwIW3U9Qo8jOttDOj4VLbh0nopUsi_jVcgSBsl4jr-TVahU4HcPv4/s1600/IMG_0013.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNCQBAg9FHlgIaBoyBTYNixbSqeWqOc5l1zPB2yT0uyFnTDF05rKIK43FtgQ7Eq6Km85LMS1Q0bgrFpaPBDQkPC1oGwIW3U9Qo8jOttDOj4VLbh0nopUsi_jVcgSBsl4jr-TVahU4HcPv4/s400/IMG_0013.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593015763684810402" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNCQBAg9FHlgIaBoyBTYNixbSqeWqOc5l1zPB2yT0uyFnTDF05rKIK43FtgQ7Eq6Km85LMS1Q0bgrFpaPBDQkPC1oGwIW3U9Qo8jOttDOj4VLbh0nopUsi_jVcgSBsl4jr-TVahU4HcPv4/s1600/IMG_0013.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>This is the lawn at the Villa, the guys use the hedge trimmers to cut the lawn.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Bqt77lBP34vkYMqNuwlLZMy4Y5By_3S0K0fisypj6pwsUAY1VZwsuba92G2gmDbEVdsabg2z8Wh_Z0sjIFusEK1lCha458RIq4B11a_X_BEj-uuRKSQNZfJ6DMokA_51iTjJqv5chwpQ/s1600/IMG_0022.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Bqt77lBP34vkYMqNuwlLZMy4Y5By_3S0K0fisypj6pwsUAY1VZwsuba92G2gmDbEVdsabg2z8Wh_Z0sjIFusEK1lCha458RIq4B11a_X_BEj-uuRKSQNZfJ6DMokA_51iTjJqv5chwpQ/s400/IMG_0022.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593015759850603122" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">Dwight has created his own laboratory to check all the chemicals and "other stuff" that lives in the fish water. This story of aquaponic gardening would be so much better if he would write it. He is so good at doing what he is doing, I am so proud of him.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Thanks for always praying. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Bqt77lBP34vkYMqNuwlLZMy4Y5By_3S0K0fisypj6pwsUAY1VZwsuba92G2gmDbEVdsabg2z8Wh_Z0sjIFusEK1lCha458RIq4B11a_X_BEj-uuRKSQNZfJ6DMokA_51iTjJqv5chwpQ/s1600/IMG_0022.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><div><br /></div></div></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-34862697669995321532011-03-30T07:10:00.000-07:002011-03-31T20:11:33.417-07:00God Brought DoctorsA couple of weeks ago I was in the dump with the team from Tennessee. We had walked and met many people. We prayed for Efraim, the man with the broken knee, and his family. We prayed for a woman who had been robbed and was now being accused by the police of staging the robbery herself and facing criminal charges. We prayed for a man who's eye had been burnt by sparks from a fire, the doctors sewed his eye shut to keep it protected and when he missed his appt. by a few minutes, they would not reschedule him for 3 weeks ~ just to remove the stitches. I saw so many needs this day it was overwhelming.<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9j_AG1xg7oFZL52xw07a_AX5dGNh3kR7DzPv5GGNkMqpYcK3nAb0usIw01fu7GZgRc3eJqWXlfCbZ5R_iV52MACImEcnyYRUv7Cx8vVd74bs6oNzr9tpWP9Qh-nBODhAaSwqheTbqv5nY/s1600/DSCF6479.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9j_AG1xg7oFZL52xw07a_AX5dGNh3kR7DzPv5GGNkMqpYcK3nAb0usIw01fu7GZgRc3eJqWXlfCbZ5R_iV52MACImEcnyYRUv7Cx8vVd74bs6oNzr9tpWP9Qh-nBODhAaSwqheTbqv5nY/s400/DSCF6479.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589882552916242402" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>As I saw overwhelming needs, I was confident that God would provide! I had a plan ~ Jennifer was coming in just a week and could fix it all, the people just needed to wait until she got there. It was a great plan and I was a part of it, perfect!</div><div><br /></div><div>Later in the day we were helping with the feeding program and saw a group of older gentlemen arrive. Something about them looked like doctors ~ they looked smart, put together and like they had a mission. I asked Susie, "do you think they are doctors?" We walked closer to inquire more and sure enough these guys were wearing scrubs ~ doctors!</div><div><br /></div><div>We approached the men and told them of the many needs we had just seen. They went right away to check in on each person. They removed the stitches from the mans eye and he could see! It was a miracle and the best part was that God had something "better than I could ask for or imagine". I had my plan but God has His perfect plan. In a moment where my pride was creeping in God had the best! </div><div><br /></div><div>As time passed, Susie became concerned that we were running late in our schedule, that maybe we wouldn't get to El Faro with enough time to finish our projects. As she expressed her concern to me the only thought in my head, the one that flew out of my mouth was....<b>"Susie, God brought doctors!"</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>We are still laughing and reminding each other that God brought doctors. There are many moments when we think we have it all figured out and maybe more times that we are unwilling to allow things to be different than we think they should be ~ in those moments are we missing God? Allow Him to be in charge. Allow Him to change things. After all, it's not about what I want, or what I think is best ~ it's all about what He is doing and He has invited us to be involved.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTaldnsvgeEAd4VfRJZP0pLImvou2LwVFDrxTRQ_XXXhwiN7GFDI10Dpc6vMQ2Vr0TY6LRJtgfu7vn_4-fg2r2YUyjMSxa18DU2-Xfa6i_ah_xYZFDGPyYn2w05JVdSOOBRI3BgxjwiaA/s1600/DSCF6496.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTaldnsvgeEAd4VfRJZP0pLImvou2LwVFDrxTRQ_XXXhwiN7GFDI10Dpc6vMQ2Vr0TY6LRJtgfu7vn_4-fg2r2YUyjMSxa18DU2-Xfa6i_ah_xYZFDGPyYn2w05JVdSOOBRI3BgxjwiaA/s400/DSCF6496.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589882562237002978" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>Open your eyes and I think that God will surprise you with something more than you could ask for or imagine ~ even today! </div><div><br /></div><div>*************************************************************************************</div><div><br /></div><div>I received an email from a dear friend in response to what I wrote here. Her words made me realize what a struggle it is for each (daily) to trust God that He has the absolute best plan for each of us! I was encouraged by what she wrote and hope you will be too. </div><div><br /></div><div>from a friend......</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; border-collapse: collapse; "> During my prayer time this AM, I realized I keep hoping/wishing my job will be different next year - according to "my plan". But I know that my "plan" is not necessarily God's perfect and best plan. In my head, being at one location for work would be sooooo much easier/simpler - which is my own pride trying to nudge in without having to rely fully on God. But, I know and cling to the fact that the Lord WILL meet me in the midst of my crazy schedule and HE will send "doctors" I don't even know are coming. Thanks for the reminder. Not sure what those "doctors" will look like, but that is part of the spectacular blessing God has for me. I will know it is from Him. I don't need to worry about how the next year will go - nor do I need to waste time fretting about the unknown. In HIS strength I will experience HIS victory and God-sized provision day by day - and I will be sweetly awed as it occurs. My job is to be attentive and watchful so I can give God all the glory and tell how He is sustaining me each day.</span></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-13424659560900892052011-03-29T12:58:00.000-07:002011-03-29T13:43:24.092-07:00We're staying....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoxRnFMOSG7S5O25cSjzqFORMgoWSi2xrJr3ptj-q0gww6RH5uHkBM_AvQKBbN8wFra0lhmH_sIpU7XyDvZ6mKl-J9Bpu2S1FavWaoiOvlNwth9jEKohpIQ6B2ado0o-45UFArLfEKuAXQ/s1600/IMG_1989.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoxRnFMOSG7S5O25cSjzqFORMgoWSi2xrJr3ptj-q0gww6RH5uHkBM_AvQKBbN8wFra0lhmH_sIpU7XyDvZ6mKl-J9Bpu2S1FavWaoiOvlNwth9jEKohpIQ6B2ado0o-45UFArLfEKuAXQ/s400/IMG_1989.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589599821868383730" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGyW_2Ky-WwTiY063VNiWxSaG5HsgOxyfXEj8i_KIBQRcu8ASDkWtfn_5cTsSmPFK8P3IlnnwUH4rSKyP1qtKVl9mnvkROrU5stnPmeh6-0tXMPJHS_ugghttQav0-jOlx2VZ2kwX9cgyL/s1600/IMG_2014.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGyW_2Ky-WwTiY063VNiWxSaG5HsgOxyfXEj8i_KIBQRcu8ASDkWtfn_5cTsSmPFK8P3IlnnwUH4rSKyP1qtKVl9mnvkROrU5stnPmeh6-0tXMPJHS_ugghttQav0-jOlx2VZ2kwX9cgyL/s400/IMG_2014.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589599819200710994" /></a><br />Did I mention that? Most of you know already that our family decided in January to stay in Nicaragua longer than the first agreed upon year. It would be silly for me to say anything different than, we'll be home when God makes it clear that we are to be home.<div><br /></div><div>In December Josh and Maggie were in tears at the idea of staying in Nicaragua but for whatever reason we always said we would decide in January, so I tried not to worry so much about those tears. But I was worried, especially as Dwight and I were feeling that we were going to stay, how could I do that to the kids? As I worried, God told me not to ~ that He was speaking to their hearts and He would give them peace. Sure enough, the day we told Josh and Maggie that we were thinking of staying, they said, "OK".</div><div><br /></div><div>In February I was home for 2 weeks. As I travelled home, I was so tired. I wanted to sleep on the plane but couldn't. Somewhere in my travel day, God gave the verse Psalm 73:28 "As for me it is good to be near God. The Sovereign Lord is my Refuge. I will tell of all your deeds." Since I read that verse I haven't forgotten it! </div><div><br /></div><div>Every minute of my time at home was full ~ full of friends, family, His presence and blessings. In my own strength I would have crashed but God was my Refuge and He gave me words. I was even able to share on Spirit 105.3 the work He is doing through Forward Edge International in Nicaragua! Here's a link if you want to listen <a href="http://www.spirit1053.com/content.php?contentID=26">Spirit 105.3</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you to every person that made my time at home so special.</div><div><br /></div><div>While I was at home, Dwight was here in Nicaragua facilitating a team from Roseville, California. This stretched the whole family but they did beautifully and when I came home ~ they were all still happy! </div><div><br /></div><div>The team built an amazing chicken coup! They bought 20 chickens and within hours of them arriving we had our first egg, whith in the first week, each chicken was laying 1 egg a day!</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhje1gTT1htT_rsagpymhTqFYWTLVZqSomqIUbcJdvR7gIMgFvDcZPnAs_gUt2knDU8g6SVC1u5qge3yNRQ6qzPJfy-sbcTomtc0S3gC2cRphuegQWIOEKKC-BnfFIISB73GTVA1fz3XCyB/s400/IMG_0006.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589600202866195298" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px; " /></span><div> It is so fun to watch the 3 houses taking turns owning the project! They are doing so well. This picture is Luisa and Maria del Carmen visiting the chickens.</div><div><br /></div><div>When I got home we had one day together as a family and then welcomed a team from Cookville, Tennessee. They were a great, fun team of only 7 people. They worked hard and blessed a lot of people!</div><div><br /></div><div>Tennessee left on Saturday and then Sunday night our friends Jennifer and Glen came from Yakima. Jennifer is doing her residency in Yakima and so we had to take every medical opportunity we could ! There is man in the dump that broke his knee in December. He has had 3 surgeries and has been many months in bed. Forward Edge teams have helped a lot. </div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_tQzbyqbe6i5IaQgOk-jA37zIy60unBoHubVNBNYEWeyiYnZLSiObYomPBnZkygUxfJnC1m8Ut8zT2OFozYko3S0noOUzMVHALjcnGpiSKZ2BaSTiLSVYEs3irhlMyKD7j9EDrgt4RHkR/s400/IMG_2089.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589602847028592146" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><div>It was great to take Jennifer there to give him some medical attention that he needed. From several doctors opinions, his knee looks good. There was an abscess that Jennifer was able to help with. It's amazing to see someone that for so long was just a kid, now as an adult with the knowledge of how to save lives!</div><div><br /></div><div>While Jennifer and Glen were still here, we welcomed our very own men from CCF, our home church! They were a small team so we combined them with another small team from Ohio. The teams mixed beautifully, thanks to great leadership from both teams.</div><div><br /></div><div>The men kept a blog while they were here, please click on <a href="http://ccfmeninnicaragua.blogspot.com/">CCF men</a> if you want to read how lives were transformed in their time here in Nicaragua. </div><div><br /></div><div>It was such a blessing to have them here!</div><div><br /></div><div>This week we are working on finding a little bit of normal. God has been doing so many good things ~ the best..... a sweet girl named Melissa received Him as her Savior last Friday! and there has been so much more. Remember "every good and perfect thing is from above" and therefore when something good happens we know that God is working!</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZtU-zxVa1dvzFetJqPqyXC6MTwz22ePh9oEkMFKkdg7jKQpmfJuE_0narD6NxXmZkxOhOQp6E_ZTHrH1u4r81M-ldIRYKhTopu8eQiZG54EEZATufy11CEaq9SXhgcNhr2LxfIj19Rh2m/s400/IMG_2154.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589605062290964098" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span><div><br /></div><div>I love you all so much and hope you always remember that we could not be here with out you! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>***Melissa is wearing the green tshirt. Please pray for her as she adjusts to this new life in Christ!</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-11890259298553275172011-03-26T09:22:00.000-07:002011-03-26T09:22:35.973-07:00CCF Men in Nicaragua 3/11: Friday 3-25Dear Friends..... I am linking you to another blog of a dear team that we just finished with. Please read and be a part of the work that we have the blessing to be a part of every day! <div><br /></div><div>You are all so dear to us.</div><div><br /></div><div>We love you and miss you and will see many of you soon! </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://ccfmeninnicaragua.blogspot.com/2011/03/friday-3-25.html?spref=bl">CCF Men in Nicaragua 3/11: Friday 3-25</a>: </div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-82113941944397483362011-01-13T11:51:00.000-08:002011-01-13T12:31:19.001-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixUMZir1tB5umJbiUJHCtqbnyrbPG32CaChg7OUMhmRIaCHV_N6hjuA13FjTkNN_WbnXE26uMMROEAHdLEWWiCdWRNp6ES0qWSEt6wfkpWcuRKRUcR6Z9QZFAYG_PQAdXw2jMRwgcB3780/s1600/IMG_7997.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixUMZir1tB5umJbiUJHCtqbnyrbPG32CaChg7OUMhmRIaCHV_N6hjuA13FjTkNN_WbnXE26uMMROEAHdLEWWiCdWRNp6ES0qWSEt6wfkpWcuRKRUcR6Z9QZFAYG_PQAdXw2jMRwgcB3780/s400/IMG_7997.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561762965201276850" /></a><br />WOW! I forgot to tell you so much of what we have done! Things I have to tell you!<div><br /></div><div>So many amazing things have happened in the ministry in this last month! The girls from the Villa spent a week at home for the first time in 2 and 1/2 years ~ God blessed them and protected them in this time. The morning that they were leaving we had a long talk about what they could possibly expect and the reality of their lives became very real. Wilbert and Gloria explained to them what to do if there was no soap to wash with or toothpaste to brush their teeth with, what to do if there was not food for meals. How to protect themselves and what their rights are as young women. The harsh reality of what "home" is.... was so harsh, and they still LOVE their homes.</div><div><br /></div><div>We had several Christmas parties! The families of the girls came for dinner at the Villa, they received a "canasta", a basket filled with food and we had a pinata for the parents ~ it was awesome!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Their is a man that has a huge heart for the kids in</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-size:15.8333px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG_fZlKVrBIACM2UkyhLvA-djSSz39nnTcXmAKx_rHl2J29HGBeg7XwRAlw8bQ_LyTCxPfIut3hg0w4HmWXiu51G18qVCt1LJNtdbgjkRgZqNsygBk1diCHN1_4U2G__9tca7uylJVDcVi/s400/IMG_8016.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561762970906999650" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px; " /></span><div>Nicaragua and he sent money to buy gifts for kids from many different locations; Leon, Motastepe, the children of the Villa workers and El Faro. For most, this was the only gift they received this year. One little girl said to me, "you know what my favorite thing is? the shampoo."</div><div><br /></div><div>Xiomara worked so hard to prepare these amazing gifts for all the kids!!! I think close to 300 gifts.</div><div><br /></div><div>Needless to say we saw more happy kids, beautiful ministries and pinatas in December than ever in my life!</div><div><br /></div><div>I saw the love that Wilbert and Gloria have for each person (and family) that works at the Villa.</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15.8333px; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqe8M2J2DmmuJcWZIt3T4k94Stfs39epV34cXVYgvldfCTxKMbDrN90xYTqgsjwm8VXb2NDvXhj_AggQMDzHqtItJF3l3_HWfPLmEOYX_vZTYm1XqQh8fkoXjVa9knNs6jlx4nm_xfOt4X/s400/IMG_8427.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561767010598378386" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></span><div> There was a special dinner for the workers and a party for their families. We had a 3 hour end of the year devotional to share what God had done in the year and a goal for the new year. Some workers shared that the devotional time has been one of the most important times in all the year. As a Villa staff we are all committed to our devotional time every Tuesday at 9am!</div><div><br /></div><div>A woman named Denise came to the Villa early on January 1. She is a counselor and trains</div><div>people that are <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15.8333px; ">doing foster care or adopting. She helped in assessing each of the new girls and met <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">with several of the original girls to help us create a plan for different behavioral issues and some learning deficits. She brought great insight and understanding to all of us. I appreciate that Forward Edge and Wilbert and Gloria value this information. It will help the girls so much.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15.8333px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15.8333px; ">Everyday there is so much more happening. As things come to my mind I will tell... </span></div><div><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15.8333px; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglo8stFPyJ60xmEYKkPgOtFcyjpWQAbvMBexnkvdNHvk6DSyH1MbHfR4TVPV2B9Xz-1dInL6UmHdwl8w7G4QVEpXn42aR7hyC5AksABu45msA-1rr35PXbLEi3YzTg_NzvNuaqDdknhvWb/s400/IMG_8386.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561767003521975810" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15.8333px; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15.8333px; -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15.8333px; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15.8333px; -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 15.8333px; ">Again, God bless you and I hope you too will tell of all the good things that God has done!</span></span></span></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-85060836110009090552011-01-13T10:12:00.000-08:002011-01-13T11:42:36.615-08:00Happy New Year....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG54YNAvsUG2FLwtYHui7Pm-QaGVlG0TN730iOvcTFjoP0xfU-ZDQG5mmAmO1oDZhuX3ZEYOKkkazDYQNOfdEm9QY1X5BwOUCI884HDWDpayRVHXFEzv8MSjSB96EgcGAtoAVapjz6ivEd/s1600/IMG_7747.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG54YNAvsUG2FLwtYHui7Pm-QaGVlG0TN730iOvcTFjoP0xfU-ZDQG5mmAmO1oDZhuX3ZEYOKkkazDYQNOfdEm9QY1X5BwOUCI884HDWDpayRVHXFEzv8MSjSB96EgcGAtoAVapjz6ivEd/s400/IMG_7747.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561745304842323138" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2gM5t9JCbmc9wCT4Um6qqiLLSj6tL9WbH2u8hpxe9orB4gjGlVfAjTPHjKG1Uq-D2rmYaaphn4ipzzXKD9E5Luj8D81SbFvv_2OCB6sBOdPtN0KCnGO1o5xpI4hwuoUBrnUC8FterOv8n/s1600/IMG_7736.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2gM5t9JCbmc9wCT4Um6qqiLLSj6tL9WbH2u8hpxe9orB4gjGlVfAjTPHjKG1Uq-D2rmYaaphn4ipzzXKD9E5Luj8D81SbFvv_2OCB6sBOdPtN0KCnGO1o5xpI4hwuoUBrnUC8FterOv8n/s400/IMG_7736.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561745301906407762" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeXqsQmu5C271GHgkhN73rIqTUP1YtJIzYLlVbW1GgPm5mMX9zMItf5WSr1gdIlR4E5wiJbATUrnrAAGZgdoOWQ-OYZwhnhypXF27PvkxLpc_ilhF1XkbbyAhg0g7ds22omWlMziHA4YF0/s1600/IMG_7853.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeXqsQmu5C271GHgkhN73rIqTUP1YtJIzYLlVbW1GgPm5mMX9zMItf5WSr1gdIlR4E5wiJbATUrnrAAGZgdoOWQ-OYZwhnhypXF27PvkxLpc_ilhF1XkbbyAhg0g7ds22omWlMziHA4YF0/s400/IMG_7853.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561739389924034242" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBh05Z7FrAi52tKLM95ohO5bXuKqRcFCMq9H6Op-G4WTmcvU0uPyygl2CJ79onhAecAkxwnzeGsC4OW4niWQAY4skAXcEZOPd690aN319W5APpBAKsGIGzqZUv8o3BB69QFt5hOYWuUY85/s1600/IMG_7764.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBh05Z7FrAi52tKLM95ohO5bXuKqRcFCMq9H6Op-G4WTmcvU0uPyygl2CJ79onhAecAkxwnzeGsC4OW4niWQAY4skAXcEZOPd690aN319W5APpBAKsGIGzqZUv8o3BB69QFt5hOYWuUY85/s400/IMG_7764.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561739383965193746" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCV51K6uzHVVwS7zwo68PirmmSULlJrjAnrR2FNk4l-zBTWs5j3dZTipnx4dg2HMp7TPXjUKAPSinMeZpWES7hwGuf4waIMSNjsjjVMEtXHlZyxsy03C__gbBlnsNApYzSv2H5qS1Gmpgg/s1600/IMG_1599.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCV51K6uzHVVwS7zwo68PirmmSULlJrjAnrR2FNk4l-zBTWs5j3dZTipnx4dg2HMp7TPXjUKAPSinMeZpWES7hwGuf4waIMSNjsjjVMEtXHlZyxsy03C__gbBlnsNApYzSv2H5qS1Gmpgg/s400/IMG_1599.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561739380650311394" /></a>With much peace and anticipation I write today. <div><br /></div><div>The longer we are here the more I realize I don't understand so many things. I know that eventually we will be in a place with so much more wisdom and understanding than we ever had, but I think before that can happen our slates have to be cleared and space has to be made for the new information we are receiving daily. Our slates can only be cleared if we are willing to let go of our own ideas and our old ways of thinking ~ our grip has loosened and God is taking the old and planting the new. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world (in our case the patterns of the U.S.), but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>good, pleasing and perfect will.</b></div><div><b>Romans 12:2</b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:17, 18</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>If you know me, you know that what comes out of my mouth is what is in my heart. I struggle to say what someone might want to hear if it is not what is the truth of my heart. I think for that reason I haven't written so much. I have thought a lot. I am confident that God is good, He is faithful and He has an eternal plan for each one of us, I hope you know that. </div><div><br /></div><div>This time in Nicaragua has been amazing and so hard. (Right now I can hear mom saying, "well then, come home immediately!" Hahaha I love that response because it is rooted in so much love.) My point in sharing is that I know that there is no better place to be than exactly in the middle of God's plan - and I can say without hesitation that we are in the palm of His hand and He will never let go. What joy we have knowing that He knows every moment of everyday. He is transforming our family and making us a new creation - that to me is a priceless gift that I hope we can share with others.</div><div><br /></div><div>I imagine you want to know a little of what we have been doing....</div><div><br /></div><div>Josh, Maggie and William just returned to school after almost a month of vacation. As always it is good to be in bit of a routine again. </div><div><br /></div><div>December started off with my brother, Tyler, visiting for 2 weeks. We loved this time. To be able share with my family our life in Nicaragua and those that are so precious to us was amazing. Tyler told me that before he thought we were crazy for leaving our life but after being here and spending time with so many people he understands completely why we are here.</div><div><br /></div><div>Christmas morning was a blessing for the kids thanks to my mom and Lucy and our sweet CCF family, who showered us with little things we were missing from home.</div><div><br /></div><div>December 26, Boxing Day.... we were up early and off the Costa Rica. Nicaragua requires that after 180 days in the country - you leave. So we took the bus and headed south. We learned that the day after Christmas is the worst time to go to Costa Rica :) But our visas were renewed, we ate good food, spent time as a family, had plenty of laughs, a few tears and came home.</div><div><br /></div><div>New Years Eve was a hit! For the first time ever we bought fireworks and at midnight Josh, William and several others lit them off. Josh was ready take up residence in Nicaragua that night! He said the fireworks were the greatest thing EVER!!!!</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijL1ysAjsoCw2q4EwUFnQuKaVVecFoqX5EGm0mcQs3eSE_PhDoBuR7utAe-aLduvoK7vqnb-WTv3t0wLYiiAb4ub0Ku8L2JNkLcjPF3uoLP8nzeMUxaOtorMVG4PyUV6h6hN6J2dmEGA4Q/s400/IMG_1457.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561745296362202194" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span><div><br /></div><div>New Years Day we headed to the beach. While we were there a friend sent Josh a text saying the the Winter Classic Hockey game was on tv. He couldn't believe there was a hockey game on tv and he was missing it. On our way home that night I received a message from my brother saying that the Winter Classic was on tv, hmmmmmm. It didn't make sense to us. As it turned out and God's great blessing to Josh (and me because I love hockey) was that the morning game had been postponed for rain, an old game was shown and we made it home in the first quarter of the Winter Classic! God is good!</div><div><br /></div><div>Our friend Andi visited us January 4-10. She was Maggies blessing! Andi loved Maggie so well in this time and they talked and talked. We were busy. It was good. God is good!</div><div><br /></div><div>Everyday good things happen and we know that "every good and perfect thing is from God". So we will give him all the glory.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm sorry that I haven't communicated well in this time. I know God has asked me to share. So if you don't mind I will share more of the process ~ some days will be a better story than others. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>This week we wrote an acronym for our name:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>M</b>asterpiece </div><div><b>C</b>ompassionate</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGU2WvowIu7st_T3GbmdiPNEdPCDZ9m_cQhDC9s9rlklTjGSLCxQ2VvOpG_x3GqF0OglTM4kpkw48TbIJWG-MoJMiaAnuH891c3xEYIHG7Xwi7I8toWpp9A2M98HZUb_AG-Ywbx5GtjEXe/s400/IMG_7596.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561755696940029842" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></span><div><div><b>G</b>rowing </div><div><b>R</b>elationships </div><div><b>E</b>quipped </div><div><b>W</b>orshippers</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div>What an awesome family!</div><div><br /></div><div>May God bless you today.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><i>from Mother Teresa....</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>We should ask ourselves, "Have I really experienced the joy of loving?" True love is love that causes us pain, that hurts, and yet brings us joy. That is why we must pray and ask for the courage to love.</i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-5658902250175454252010-12-12T14:44:00.001-08:002010-12-12T14:44:48.164-08:00McGrews Nicaragua ~ Nov\Dec (63 photos), by katie mcgrew<img style="visibility:hidden;width:0px;height:0px;" border=0 width=0 height=0 src="http://c.gigcount.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bHQ9MTI5MjE5Mzg*Nzg5OSZwdD*xMjkyMTkzODg1MjkwJnA9NjUxMzIxJmQ9Jm49YmxvZ2dlciZnPTEmbz*4NWIxMmQ5MDBiZmI*/OWRmOGY5MGIxNzMyNzFlZmI2ZiZvZj*w.gif" /><a href='http://www2.snapfish.com/snapfish/fbshareredirect/p=162121292193846687/l=2811688021/g=1554209021/redirectURL=share/otsc=SHR/otsi=SALBBL/AlbumID=2912037021/a=1554209021_1554209021/usercomments=I_xqd%20like%20to%20share%20my%20Snapfish%20photos%20with%20you.%20Once%20you%20have%20checked%20out%20my%20photos%20you%20can%20order%20prints%20and%20upload%20your%20own%20photos%20to%20share./counttext=63%20photos/COBRAND_NAME=snapfish/'><img src='http://www2.snapfish.com/snapfish/getimagetnurl/AlbumID=2912037021/a=1554209021_1554209021/'/></a><br>I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.<br/><a href='http://www2.snapfish.com/snapfish/fbshareredirect/p=162121292193846687/l=2811688021/g=1554209021/redirectURL=share/otsc=SHR/otsi=SALBBL/AlbumID=2912037021/a=1554209021_1554209021/usercomments=I_xqd%20like%20to%20share%20my%20Snapfish%20photos%20with%20you.%20Once%20you%20have%20checked%20out%20my%20photos%20you%20can%20order%20prints%20and%20upload%20your%20own%20photos%20to%20share./counttext=63%20photos/COBRAND_NAME=snapfish/'>Click here to view photos</a>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-54209903291285808622010-11-23T05:56:00.000-08:002010-11-23T06:36:16.426-08:00Happy Thanksgiving...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmlD-3NCiZBnq5cGLckRKrvTNEi9LUq_BciH3lGC844U9zK1okB-GPCDUZUXRpjHEqXeK-Thw5grwEQRuyuA5AflQDxaC2ioBGgTX5WlN6sXT9H0i5vY2EgjfE6bCILxqOpq5O_X4TVTA/s1600/IMG_7270.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmlD-3NCiZBnq5cGLckRKrvTNEi9LUq_BciH3lGC844U9zK1okB-GPCDUZUXRpjHEqXeK-Thw5grwEQRuyuA5AflQDxaC2ioBGgTX5WlN6sXT9H0i5vY2EgjfE6bCILxqOpq5O_X4TVTA/s400/IMG_7270.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542744138018992498" /></a>90 degrees in Managua and snowing in Edmonds...Happy Thanksgiving! We are slowing convincing ourselves that is really is the holiday season ~ the malls are helping to convince us of this, we have put Christmas lights in the windows and fall scented candles burn through out the house. The best comment came from Josh the other night as he declared that "now this is starting to feel right", as I cooked almond cakes, mashed potatoes and green beans for our Thanksgiving celebration with our new church. <div>The month and a half between Thanksgiving and Christmas is our families absolute favorite time of the year. It's a time when there is no better place to be than with family or enjoying longs days at home together ~ there is something magical about this time of year! How will this happen in Nicaragua? Dwight and I will work hard to make our home, "our home"! I know that God will give us the same peace and joy that He has faithfully given and we will give Him all the credit as He does this. </div><div><br /></div><div>One great blessing, that comes with a hint of sadness too... we will be getting a couch and loveseat on November 29! Our dear neighbors, the Beaustamontes are returning to the states after living for 4 years in Nicaragua. We committed to buy some of their furniture several months ago and I think in God's perfect plan the furniture will come at a time we need to create a home more than ever! </div><div><br /></div><div>We are more thankful than ever this year! We are thankful for....</div><div>all of our family!</div><div>all of our friends!</div><div>for a beautiful church family in Edmonds and also in Managua!</div><div>to have the opportunity to serve God in a tangible way every day!</div><div>for our health!</div><div>for everyone that has and will visit!</div><div>for Gods provision!</div><div><br /></div><div>He has truly given us more than we could ask for or imagine! He is the Author and Perfecter of our faith, so we will continue to trust Him daily. He will accomplish the work He has started and He will allow us to help if we are willing to be willing.</div><div><br /></div><div>So much has happened in the last month! Here is a brief run down...</div><div>We have added 9 more to the Villa family. </div><div>We met a wonderful family from Oregon that was a great encouragement to Dwight with the aquaponic project and a blessing to all at the Villa ~ thanks Rick and team!</div><div>My dear friends LaFon and Kari visited, encouraged and learned so much!</div><div>"My Virginia Beach Team" came with a 3rd team to Nicaragua ~ we spent the week in Rio Blanco.</div><div>Josh is training for a triathlon on December 4.</div><div>The kids, once again received the most amazing progress reports.</div><div>Dwight spent a weekend at Montelimar with the men from International Christian Fellowship, he was refreshed and so encouraged.</div><div>We continue to lead the youth group at the Villa.</div><div><br /></div><div>And what is coming up...</div><div>We are spending Thanksgiving with Mario's family in the community of Pochote... I went about a month ago with them and loved the community, this time we will work with a school and people that live out in the mountains.</div><div>We are going to Leon on Saturday for a Tombola ~ I will explain what this is when I understand more! It is a celebration with the kids.</div><div>Xochilt from the Villa will be going home to live with her family this Saturday. Please pray for her, for safetly, love and continued health and growth.</div><div>My brother Tyler is coming on December 3!!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>I am sure I have missed something but that gives a brief glimpse.</div><div><br /></div><div>We love you guys and are so thankful that you are a part of our lives.</div><div><br /></div><div>I lift my eyes up</div><div>unto the mountains</div><div>where does my help come from?</div><div><br /></div><div>My help comes from You </div><div>Maker of Heaven</div><div>Creator of the Earth</div><div><br /></div><div>Oh how I need you Lord</div><div>to come and rescue me</div><div>to come and bring me hope</div><div><br /></div><div>~a psalm, a favorite song of mine!</div><div><br /></div><div>God bless you today.</div><div><br /></div><div>Everyone in Edmonds ~ ENJOY THE SNOW!!!!!!</div><div> </div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-2644664140396834242010-11-08T17:57:00.000-08:002010-11-08T18:31:34.224-08:00When Life Becomes Normal...<div style="text-align: center;">This is the family of two of our new girls at the Villa ~ Geyzel (Hazel) in the black and Kenia in the black and grey stripes. </div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjirc-UPLLsac92ybRRez2FMe2NMwt7m2JayIMgRy4L6TYJRzZ_438rOfXfnMSo-DtZhldG5sabEMXC3ZpGdKCso7tBuc_JKZ7S1LU70ndtp_KIbaNA3hkcCTTMeiThPywLnxY5AkcOnb7l/s1600/IMG_6907.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjirc-UPLLsac92ybRRez2FMe2NMwt7m2JayIMgRy4L6TYJRzZ_438rOfXfnMSo-DtZhldG5sabEMXC3ZpGdKCso7tBuc_JKZ7S1LU70ndtp_KIbaNA3hkcCTTMeiThPywLnxY5AkcOnb7l/s400/IMG_6907.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537363870676183122" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>I don't ever want to stop recognizing God at work every day! You know He is always at work? I am so thankful for the "Experiencing God" study, for the last 3 weeks I have been working on the study with the women that work at the Villa. I love to watch these women take bits of these truths and have a new encounter with God. I am reminded over and over again that it is God who changes hearts and my job is to be obedient to what He asks me to do. <div><br /></div><div>I have been thinking so much about the ministry that Jesus had in his time on earth. I don't think there was anything very fancy about it ~ the amazing thing was His obedience to His Father. I desire and am learning to walk daily with Him trusting that He will show me all that I need to see and understand. The longer we live here the more I realize I don't understand. I was reading a book the other day and it was discussing Proverbs 3:5,6, a familiar verse to many. The author talked about how we desperately try to understand everything and if we don't understand we think there is a problem ~ but this verse says... "lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight". It's ok that I don't understand. In a way the less I understand the more I am dependent on God, a really good thing.</div><div><br /></div><div>The family is doing well. Maggie and I will go to the airport tonight to pick up my friend LaFon and her friend Kari. We are excited to show them everything we love! </div><div><br /></div><div>Last weekend we went to a place called Matagalpa ~ beautiful and cold! I was invited to go with my friend Ann to visit the Young Life camp, "la finca vida joven". On our way we dropped Dwight and the kids off at a place called "Selva Negra". They had a great day exploring, hiking, resting and eating. At Selva Negra we were surrounded by hills and trees, you could hear the howler monkeys all around!</div><div><br /></div><div>To visit the Young Life camp was such a blessing! It brought back so many memories. I loved seeing the 270 young adults (19 - 30ish) worshiping, learning and sharing with each other. I was so impressed to see the excellence in the entire ministry. God is doing great things through the Vida Joven ministry here in Nicaragua. </div><div><br /></div><div>We had 8 new girls move into the Villa in October. Before the girls arrived we were blessed with the beautiful house mom, Eveling. She is a gift to these girls and to the ministry at the Villa Esperanza. Bringing 8 teen age girls into your home is not easy, these girls have lived tough lives and now Eveling is loving them and bringing stability and security into their lives. Please pray for her as the transition is not easy. </div><div><br /></div><div>This Saturday my Virginia Beach team arrives! We will leave for Rio Blanco on Sunday until next Friday. The kids are staying home and being cared for by our Quinta Allyson neighborhood, Natalie, Shirley and the Apilados ~ it takes a village! </div><div><br /></div><div>Dwight is going with the men from ICF (our church) to the Montelimar for a retreat. I am thankful for the time for him to be able to process all that God is teaching.</div><div><br /></div><div>We are doing well. We are thankful for your prayers. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-46853950126679125402010-09-29T11:08:00.000-07:002010-09-29T14:25:21.649-07:00It's been a while....These last weeks have been an important time for Dwight and I. We have had a lot of time to talk about a lot of things. We are learning so much, so so much. We will celebrate our 17th wedding anniversary in December and when I think back to learning how to be married and live with someone else seemed so difficult, deciding who was right about where to put the silverware. Silverware seems so easy now. Living in a new culture has made us aware of all of our insecurities and shortcomings. We are learning to love each other with grace and humility ~ recognizing that God will still give us a peace that surpasses all understanding. God is good all the time!<div><br /></div><div>Maybe 4 weeks ago we all started to feel a little antsy, we were really missing a church family. We had been going to El Faro, the ministry to La Chureca. It seemed very important to be at church with the girls that we are here to support, but something was missing. We didn't understand anything. We would go because it felt like the right thing to do but our hearts and our minds did not receive what they so desperately needed. So after much conversation and prayer we are going to a church called "International Christian Fellowship", they meet at the kids school. The kids had received many invitations to be there from classmates and so they were happy to make the change. We are thankful for the opportunity to worship with some amazing missionaries and in english, hahaha.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dwight and I started spanish classes on Monday. It's important. We both want to communicate with the people we are with. Dwight shared an interesting perception with me the other day. He said usually, in english speaking situations, we pick up what other people are saying. We hear things at the super market, on the news, on the radio, somewhere that trigger thoughts in our heads that lead to other thoughts and so on.... When you live in a place where you don't understand the language, your mind is not triggered by any other conversations, you can be in a busy place and hear nothing but noise, you are stuck with your own thoughts and what your eyes see but nothing more. I shared with him that I was feeling like such a dummy, like I have no intelligent thought to share and at the end of the day I am so tired. When he shared this, I felt relieved that indeed I am no dummy, I just have to be proactive in filling my mind with thoughts that it can process; God's Word, other books, more great conversations with Dwight, my neighbors and even this spanish class that brought much laughter and appreciation for the beautiful language we are learning.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">I GOT MAIL</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLH8hrRX5CUZcHWTnuTbzhm6yQE0Xcafyvh4SXHiBpFqhqAwCgL5L36k5WONktsuGqhZcdHkeoYpVmYeKpFc2e93EiM5xD7Lmmy_-0n9nByrf6wksFVRyxvCA-8dx3Dsw_VM8JCzCugjX/s1600/IMG_0779.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLH8hrRX5CUZcHWTnuTbzhm6yQE0Xcafyvh4SXHiBpFqhqAwCgL5L36k5WONktsuGqhZcdHkeoYpVmYeKpFc2e93EiM5xD7Lmmy_-0n9nByrf6wksFVRyxvCA-8dx3Dsw_VM8JCzCugjX/s400/IMG_0779.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522400502073786290" /></a>What a wonderful surprise it was to have my friend Jhonny come to my house the other day saying that a letter had arrived for me at his house! I was so surprised. I only gave my address to 2 people because I was sure that it was not possible to receive any, the church and the insurance company. I didn't even give my address but the address of our dear Nica friends, they live behind us. </div><div><br /></div><div>Jhonny said that a motorcycle came to his house calling for (phenetically speaking) "Kotty MaCru", they had no idea who he was looking for! They all looked at each other a little puzzled until they looked at the envelope and with a sigh said, "oh..... Katie!" Then they proceeded and persisted to tell him that I didn't live there, that I lived at Quinta Alyson. I love this because Jhonny was coming to my house in 5 minutes!!! I think they were a little nervous because there would be a big problem if the mail didn't get to the person it was addressed to. Eventually they signed for it and the man left. </div><div><br /></div><div>When Jhonny gave me the letter I just looked at it for the longest time! I couldn't believe something like that could find me. The line from Amazing Grace that says "I once was lost but now am found" became so real! I was so thankful.</div><div><br /></div><div>The letter was from our church, Community Christian Fellowship. It was a birthday card from the Missions Committee for me. I opened it and then came the painful part........... there was a Starbucks Card! This gave Dwight and I the biggest laugh because in Nicaragua there is no Starbucks. I think the laugh that I got was the best gift!</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhgAvDUUIodckiI3tJZoxc4NKLnQhOmSP2qSor7g0Y59hPcyky0Vl3CYqiQW6Foehql7xfFjoMDkbC35Xw1idKkKO679sZG_o85B6FH01VkZVNbNSo4eQW_eGgaFJnyQAkHOqQBkrQh9K/s1600/IMG_0780.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhgAvDUUIodckiI3tJZoxc4NKLnQhOmSP2qSor7g0Y59hPcyky0Vl3CYqiQW6Foehql7xfFjoMDkbC35Xw1idKkKO679sZG_o85B6FH01VkZVNbNSo4eQW_eGgaFJnyQAkHOqQBkrQh9K/s400/IMG_0780.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522400496085794674" /></a>The letter had been opened a couple of times I think, it was resealed and taped quite well. It's a good thing they don't know Starbucks or the card and the laugh would have been gone.</div><div><br /></div><div>In this picture: from William to the right, Maria Celeste, Mama Sandra, Ana, Murel y Brittany.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdD15KqBX5DzwGpcV27IjSV7__wTuJK6hVA7aKp3XlHrXvuyHm5Gd3rLhKQX8BG8TslV1wpQLMxI88Ed8DHBR1FxhFvaQjni1fYHZ9oMfuYYetgLaISYGV0Lv_vTKcEz9xqhvGhYIAs5e/s1600/IMG_0794.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdD15KqBX5DzwGpcV27IjSV7__wTuJK6hVA7aKp3XlHrXvuyHm5Gd3rLhKQX8BG8TslV1wpQLMxI88Ed8DHBR1FxhFvaQjni1fYHZ9oMfuYYetgLaISYGV0Lv_vTKcEz9xqhvGhYIAs5e/s400/IMG_0794.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522400491395847842" /></a>Saturday night we went to a beautiful choir concert and the Reuben Dario Teatro in Managua. It was wonderful to sit in the midst of beautiful music. Afterwards we went for a very typical Nicaraguan dish; carne asada, gallo pinto (rice and beans) tajata frita (fried plantain) y queso ~ muy rico! </div><div><br /></div><div>From Dwight to the right: Natalie, Maria, Alondra, Susie, Martha, Sara y Scarleth.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXTJrOjM51eJ-DVWmVPNiL2haL5XqSv4VY57QB3PbZgsWOyiG8KdJUXwFeoFHPvni3hGa5BeCOTcfUODU-dKtIgM-d18H1ba53onXyof8idVDpqPqyikeY4tmOYAh1CQga06vtFtRJfSft/s1600/IMG_0795.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXTJrOjM51eJ-DVWmVPNiL2haL5XqSv4VY57QB3PbZgsWOyiG8KdJUXwFeoFHPvni3hGa5BeCOTcfUODU-dKtIgM-d18H1ba53onXyof8idVDpqPqyikeY4tmOYAh1CQga06vtFtRJfSft/s400/IMG_0795.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522400484819824530" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>From Josh to the right: Monica, Maggie, Perla, Xochilt, Erminia<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8rR0iLWglAkWkvUctu88LhDfG0u-K8Qc4QL0E1QqUckj9YRKR5memOhwPo86gNsG7E81RSSR_x7On2acj78GdStt7kI3QLyswyHZ7-5ORFOdTUwfTeX9I9lOroUYcQvwKe-ruJURzHjlD/s1600/IMG_0796.JPG"></a></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8rR0iLWglAkWkvUctu88LhDfG0u-K8Qc4QL0E1QqUckj9YRKR5memOhwPo86gNsG7E81RSSR_x7On2acj78GdStt7kI3QLyswyHZ7-5ORFOdTUwfTeX9I9lOroUYcQvwKe-ruJURzHjlD/s1600/IMG_0796.JPG"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8rR0iLWglAkWkvUctu88LhDfG0u-K8Qc4QL0E1QqUckj9YRKR5memOhwPo86gNsG7E81RSSR_x7On2acj78GdStt7kI3QLyswyHZ7-5ORFOdTUwfTeX9I9lOroUYcQvwKe-ruJURzHjlD/s400/IMG_0796.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522399756258186386" /></a><br /></div><div>And these little guys.... Eveline (9), Ana (5), Frania (3), Eduardo (?), Jose (6) and Aron (9)</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4FfjcIzNBjQiFEwJIB_EPrnHVUdrfCXFUZrTAx_g5YfmIaPxLYvfo39KETN1Nz4Puv9AyMU_7nDGpc38M_0LmnZ6A-JjJGKpHfXtvTXNhEZPBq-IrsYHU1PA9T-UbuDhxxJWrf873Zjrm/s1600/IMG_0803.JPG"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4FfjcIzNBjQiFEwJIB_EPrnHVUdrfCXFUZrTAx_g5YfmIaPxLYvfo39KETN1Nz4Puv9AyMU_7nDGpc38M_0LmnZ6A-JjJGKpHfXtvTXNhEZPBq-IrsYHU1PA9T-UbuDhxxJWrf873Zjrm/s400/IMG_0803.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522399752112788370" /></a>Jhonny introduced Dwight and I to these little guys last week. They live on his street. He asked me if there is anyway we can help them. They spend the day unattended, their mom sells ice cream in the street and often comes home drunk, their dad works all day and comes home around 9:30 or 10. Their dad brings them food and the other day we saw them collecting firewood together, it seems like a sweet relationship ~ a dad working hard to give the best that he knows to his kids. </div><div><br /></div><div>I smile every time I see these guys. It is such a privelige just to have time with them. We have been reading books, we have washed their hair (they have plenty of lice) and their little feet. What do they need the most? This question stays with me always. What can I do for them that will stay with them when I am not? </div><div><br /></div><div>Please pray for them. I will keep you posted.</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Another new friend...</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbTgh25FeJnLWr_Nb_IjD2F-Bmq8-6jv55Zhb9lNbiQ2CLIsfsiUYwp3V96xWxMDCWTsvmEc8mMhVcpZwTgI8RxyAEbqLUqoBmmNbeizAJtUYFmf-Vt93oTWhXAqpXPyGPbW88aenzh2n/s1600/IMG_0799.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbTgh25FeJnLWr_Nb_IjD2F-Bmq8-6jv55Zhb9lNbiQ2CLIsfsiUYwp3V96xWxMDCWTsvmEc8mMhVcpZwTgI8RxyAEbqLUqoBmmNbeizAJtUYFmf-Vt93oTWhXAqpXPyGPbW88aenzh2n/s400/IMG_0799.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522399743788518674" /></a>Is it a tarantula? I think so. It looks like every picture I have ever seen. We found this in Maggie and Williams bathroom the other day. Of course we killed it. As Dwight was hitting it with the dust pan we had legs going every direction, when it every leg and the body were separated it still tried to escape, it was yucky!</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Managua has already doubled it's rainfall from last year. 4 kids have died because of the rain. Many times kids don't go to school because of the rain. The rain does a lot of damage in Nicaragua. The system does not handle so much rain so well so roads are always changing; potholes and floods. It is always an adventure and during a rain storm you have to either stop or just make sure you are not going to a low spot in the city! </div><div><br /></div><div>Josh, Maggie and William are doing so well! Josh and Maggie have so many friends, the other night at the theater they saw many people they know from school. Josh is going to Young Life tonight and he and Maggie both enjoy the Youth Group that happens every other Friday night at ICF (our church). Josh has his 2 soccer game on Friday ~ he plays Flor de Liz's sons team. Their is a service club that meets on Saturday mornings and the kids enjoy that. William is busy with all the kids in our neighborhood, there is always a soccer game, bikes or frisbees.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our family is working together to have a youth group for the girls at the Villa on Tuesdays. Our time last night was very special, we played silly games, sang songs and talked about how it is possible to have joy in the midst of a difficult situation. I see joy in these girls, maybe more than any other change ~ they have the joy of the Lord.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dwight and Mario, the guard, are going to plant carrots, onions, peppers, lettuce and cilantro tomorrow ~ we went to the seed store with Mario today so he could choose foods common to Nicaragua. We have tons of albahaca, basil, growing in the aquaponic project BUT.... this is not a typical food here. We'll see how it goes.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight Dwight and I are going to dinner with Gloria and Wilbert. I hope it is a time of laughter and relaxation for all.</div><div><br /></div><div>We love you guys and are so thankful that you are in our lives. We would love to hear from you, whether an email or maybe you will send us a letter. The address you can use is.....</div><div><br /></div><div>The McGrew's</div><div>km 11 1/2 carretera a vieja a leon</div><div>entrada a residencial bosques de Miraflores</div><div>300 metros al norte, 50 metros al oeste</div><div>Managua, Nicaragua</div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-30641124545900974362010-09-07T14:53:00.000-07:002010-09-07T15:23:38.797-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSoqsZdp0X_TviJYY4dQ3a2TO91ejV9hnaasoNAeilHhAyZtAQlxlYRTA0WNSBc6LTfI29mE_LT0H82EXr6wF4_Yo20ftljdWV2m_tfTlDNoieoL7k57rLU3nEWRPPqbGye4pBTCMcXmG/s1600/IMG_0582.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSoqsZdp0X_TviJYY4dQ3a2TO91ejV9hnaasoNAeilHhAyZtAQlxlYRTA0WNSBc6LTfI29mE_LT0H82EXr6wF4_Yo20ftljdWV2m_tfTlDNoieoL7k57rLU3nEWRPPqbGye4pBTCMcXmG/s400/IMG_0582.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514299309897167410" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Maggie and little Luna washing the dishes. She loves to chase brooms and mops </div><div style="text-align: center;">and barks at pringle cans.</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIzwS2EGQqoeMuE9JQmSITTmCuAqioY7TJVUTE11Pj0yX3XBe-Nh45uVV4TipgVwl7YDMqK5evlH9Pw7m9TLCEmzNnrtg7ydPuMsteEchI17APbhgwzaxImJP0v9XfXAc8_NhSXd19ybok/s1600/IMG_0563.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIzwS2EGQqoeMuE9JQmSITTmCuAqioY7TJVUTE11Pj0yX3XBe-Nh45uVV4TipgVwl7YDMqK5evlH9Pw7m9TLCEmzNnrtg7ydPuMsteEchI17APbhgwzaxImJP0v9XfXAc8_NhSXd19ybok/s400/IMG_0563.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514299300780543970" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Xochilt, Erminia and Tamara at Tip Top. </div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2c-U6IjKW8PLwWQhhdNAqGjxOPNEYL1aVuIBCkh8fBPJv4AfjEW823dNfPucfVRpS9cijUGPd3yjedc6RZ3d1f_vy8Tt-x32-5zWxgbql5YPOzy5WZsKqoZEIDnPeLtGX8EFQQkAFdRTj/s1600/IMG_0577.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2c-U6IjKW8PLwWQhhdNAqGjxOPNEYL1aVuIBCkh8fBPJv4AfjEW823dNfPucfVRpS9cijUGPd3yjedc6RZ3d1f_vy8Tt-x32-5zWxgbql5YPOzy5WZsKqoZEIDnPeLtGX8EFQQkAFdRTj/s400/IMG_0577.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514299291009724594" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Brittany and Maria Celeste.</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5kNhjN2WMVHJEt6KTTPeEhkxU7AQaVZJuswqF_jBkc8LgOQpaGP2bMBsE__qkml5Agmtawy46JrND56urjAh1jUwwa9dPq6MLsB3_ZhAobZVjXLIXq5Lw-Gx5g-sIgOuOXXmk93dyU7J/s1600/IMG_0587.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5kNhjN2WMVHJEt6KTTPeEhkxU7AQaVZJuswqF_jBkc8LgOQpaGP2bMBsE__qkml5Agmtawy46JrND56urjAh1jUwwa9dPq6MLsB3_ZhAobZVjXLIXq5Lw-Gx5g-sIgOuOXXmk93dyU7J/s400/IMG_0587.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514296647691943362" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">This is the view from our balcony on a Saturday morning!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Lot's of kids!</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi5kKFJQovojXjq0luzDabBMQNBmKQqPtm2lMgfDBVDgcFm4RsUkz283Cn0pMywX3dQAYzkDu-GMR5n2ugDVOamvUIvrrYWvuBv5WLLh3QyfkmNb2xgTwEgYLlwsTA3g2VsVk-iygukZYc/s1600/IMG_0598.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi5kKFJQovojXjq0luzDabBMQNBmKQqPtm2lMgfDBVDgcFm4RsUkz283Cn0pMywX3dQAYzkDu-GMR5n2ugDVOamvUIvrrYWvuBv5WLLh3QyfkmNb2xgTwEgYLlwsTA3g2VsVk-iygukZYc/s400/IMG_0598.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514296640112265490" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Maggie sharing with the girls from Leon. They have become so dear to us.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCvb2n8nwjj88ZeQfKAaOxrrlHRK9Q7HqdNiHe1O1g5C63JbYDp8X2RJ-GRmBvFkQV_94wYUq0HuKXYb7p1LWEeuUfUDsFSPU-blO6chWvCYpqgCmocq13t34CYhfWue31My8vI5d5mUnc/s1600/IMG_0603.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCvb2n8nwjj88ZeQfKAaOxrrlHRK9Q7HqdNiHe1O1g5C63JbYDp8X2RJ-GRmBvFkQV_94wYUq0HuKXYb7p1LWEeuUfUDsFSPU-blO6chWvCYpqgCmocq13t34CYhfWue31My8vI5d5mUnc/s400/IMG_0603.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514294586084218466" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">A service for the kids in Leon. Thank you Jesus for this time.</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlmotzx7iF3TztYW0-EuM_sChyphenhypheni3yj_oI0dsgREaBXxg6YrbLiQkkOpbmxHS7ezMnAUNCivvtZ3qpnay126gSUDNJZ2TX1j1SrCcDeYMZ1rHoOERxBKZyw-V8edhwYzx2wp0lFZMLxrjI/s1600/IMG_0614.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlmotzx7iF3TztYW0-EuM_sChyphenhypheni3yj_oI0dsgREaBXxg6YrbLiQkkOpbmxHS7ezMnAUNCivvtZ3qpnay126gSUDNJZ2TX1j1SrCcDeYMZ1rHoOERxBKZyw-V8edhwYzx2wp0lFZMLxrjI/s400/IMG_0614.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514294576364203154" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Dolores and I ~ I love this woman and I am so thankful for her.</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGDp_1hS7aeRYAHJ7DlLoosZKmPVR5bepZKcjMJ1nF881k2m9uhgjo8EnnE_UtwMzS7g7t3u4_JHw47RXZzM7paBbCUTQhsTYa0SOOEgBbZovpbegN7r9V_4nnbzsdPsYXMIn0ZT9ZAtyK/s1600/IMG_0623.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGDp_1hS7aeRYAHJ7DlLoosZKmPVR5bepZKcjMJ1nF881k2m9uhgjo8EnnE_UtwMzS7g7t3u4_JHw47RXZzM7paBbCUTQhsTYa0SOOEgBbZovpbegN7r9V_4nnbzsdPsYXMIn0ZT9ZAtyK/s400/IMG_0623.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514294566871813506" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The whole crew that spent the day in Leon.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Thank you for praying for us all the time! I have so much to share with all of you right now but no time. I will just write soon and tell you everything! God is working and my job is to join Him, I wish He could write a clear job description sometimes. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Love you all!</div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-74958124968700149672010-09-03T07:45:00.001-07:002010-09-03T08:08:42.646-07:00Good Times and Tamara for DwightWe were celebrating Flor's birthday in front of the computer ~ Bart, Kerri and family were talking on skype with us. Technology at this moment was such a blessing!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88W50V4C-1Pdng5V6ISWUpD_xF8t6hkZOFyesjRBj2pBgQr1OjXtkBPdlHDbIcpFuT-kG5mKBFoVzsbaOUKvEtXma19Rw4Qps4KXnDS-498diU9iafGhsGl7B0_SyVHDrzVV_qy7EKMU1/s1600/IMG_6234.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88W50V4C-1Pdng5V6ISWUpD_xF8t6hkZOFyesjRBj2pBgQr1OjXtkBPdlHDbIcpFuT-kG5mKBFoVzsbaOUKvEtXma19Rw4Qps4KXnDS-498diU9iafGhsGl7B0_SyVHDrzVV_qy7EKMU1/s400/IMG_6234.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512701211217760290" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Dwight and Dolores ~ beautiful Dolores!</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_9LyRnECtpewnlN5zZCJBzPUIs7EIMds3rsebEsKyI5QDTZGEbAfIFGh4jMpvvvxfMmr6XK7LWvSQSI_UsAOXN_634LS_LS83eTw9jcYlrkrUXTvZ0UaBssKNTfTJ7moujBu2vSqdqVO/s1600/IMG_6223.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_9LyRnECtpewnlN5zZCJBzPUIs7EIMds3rsebEsKyI5QDTZGEbAfIFGh4jMpvvvxfMmr6XK7LWvSQSI_UsAOXN_634LS_LS83eTw9jcYlrkrUXTvZ0UaBssKNTfTJ7moujBu2vSqdqVO/s400/IMG_6223.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512701209625880578" /></a>Dwight and I at Katarina ~ Laguna de Apoyo is close behind and Lake Managua or Nicaragua (I am not sure) in the distance!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9j2GYokwSzpnF5whowcS1bWFFisa3x4T5Sp59un5vrD_7MMzflyP9hu8mmfZGMVdcQ9-RYs-EebEw7zZrYAfS8KwSOXbKL_r0do6nvkh7OqdMd_R6aiAnxd-FV1fxc5cAysKspIp6Av_/s1600/IMG_6186.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9j2GYokwSzpnF5whowcS1bWFFisa3x4T5Sp59un5vrD_7MMzflyP9hu8mmfZGMVdcQ9-RYs-EebEw7zZrYAfS8KwSOXbKL_r0do6nvkh7OqdMd_R6aiAnxd-FV1fxc5cAysKspIp6Av_/s400/IMG_6186.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512701197172756002" /></a><br />Not everyone is so excited about Lola the monkey! We had a great day with the staff from the Villa boating through the the islands in Granada. We laughed so hard. I love to see people laugh, maybe that is my hearts desire to spend time with people I love the most and laugh and laugh and laugh!!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislp-UyMduRUqHu-dJQDQtbH1tqHxpMFhy4ILim1snzcLoY3TMamupbcaqQNjw4uDHOOU7RYD0cpMYB0oprh9PftG5_MPu-xxyxxJ1XCdVKs6vfjT2IRxqNoKnRHHoglBv0UG9emrExX3d/s1600/IMG_6153.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislp-UyMduRUqHu-dJQDQtbH1tqHxpMFhy4ILim1snzcLoY3TMamupbcaqQNjw4uDHOOU7RYD0cpMYB0oprh9PftG5_MPu-xxyxxJ1XCdVKs6vfjT2IRxqNoKnRHHoglBv0UG9emrExX3d/s400/IMG_6153.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512700389685277874" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The beginning of the journey into Lake Nicaragua with the Villa staff.</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisVAgXGq0CwkOfoZEjU5sewrKbBEpn0RzwLbCkSBaqwdmClVnm7S9GDfib-exLzX6gcnCKjfcliuSIOYut05ZQdYfpUKn15n4bEPiOCqXCqzA7SDnblAFldxn9p-FgaotCkmdmNtjGPX8J/s1600/IMG_6115.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisVAgXGq0CwkOfoZEjU5sewrKbBEpn0RzwLbCkSBaqwdmClVnm7S9GDfib-exLzX6gcnCKjfcliuSIOYut05ZQdYfpUKn15n4bEPiOCqXCqzA7SDnblAFldxn9p-FgaotCkmdmNtjGPX8J/s400/IMG_6115.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512700387366397554" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The whole staff at Katarina ~ they are so cute! and they worked so hard this summer.</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvKLief8S7SVyyhiX-PprOV_6KMydLd4OicYxsxMdy6I4CgSlGiY9HVE0_HIUa6n8Mt1Wh8y0yy87LvXa1NuU6bF2BTazcD14lNyW3rfLppvKQzMtbERNYqdFcYA70w2XmMrw91d_FFKfX/s1600/IMG_6182.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 224px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvKLief8S7SVyyhiX-PprOV_6KMydLd4OicYxsxMdy6I4CgSlGiY9HVE0_HIUa6n8Mt1Wh8y0yy87LvXa1NuU6bF2BTazcD14lNyW3rfLppvKQzMtbERNYqdFcYA70w2XmMrw91d_FFKfX/s400/IMG_6182.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512700380322991602" /></a>I will only write a little. Dwight left on Tuesday to go home to spend time with his dad, the next day my dear sweet friend Tamara came. This is a huge gift from God that he would give us so much time to catch up and share our hearts. She is such a gift because she see's God working all the time and see's the pain of a broken heart ~ we can share so much. The week before I got to the point where I wanted/ NEEDED to hear the Word of God! I can read it and saturate myself with spanish worship but in this moment I was longing to hear Gods Word, my precious friend has spoken Gods Word and encouraged me to receive it more.<div><br /></div><div>It seems like Dwight is doing well at home. My prayer is that the time would be refreshing to him and that he would receive the love from many people. I think it is a good opportunity for us to process all that has been happening so we can share with each other when he returns. </div><div><br /></div><div>God is so good.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tamara brought salmon and sweet corn from home, yesterday we purchased a bbq and had the most amazing dinner!!!!!! </div><div><br /></div><div>I lift my eyes up unto the mountains, where does my help come from? My help comes from You, Maker of Heaven, Creator of the Earth!!! </div><div><br /></div><div>Oh how I need you Lord, you are my only hope, you are my only prayer. So i will wait for You, Lord, to come and rescue me. And as He does; rescue me, lift my eyes and give me hope ~ I will share with everyone who gives me the opportunity to share the hope that I have.</div><div><br /></div><div>Love you all!!! If you see Dwight give him a big hug! If you want to contact him 425 773-3517</div><div><br /></div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-741636232010389401.post-55213287366250393382010-08-24T08:11:00.001-07:002010-08-24T08:31:49.926-07:00Church, Garden y Lili<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7DEGjPSv-h9prCVnGF9TW0ChLgygrEBiMJAoQ56PfvmtGagNl-Yi9q5TvWLkfDAdb5J7jnOM__xFVM6N-5ioP4snMT1TmiFG1LI9vR2wWDyBv2ukIbJnzPkt82dhoAr51zeizYUVImbYj/s1600/IMG_0519.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7DEGjPSv-h9prCVnGF9TW0ChLgygrEBiMJAoQ56PfvmtGagNl-Yi9q5TvWLkfDAdb5J7jnOM__xFVM6N-5ioP4snMT1TmiFG1LI9vR2wWDyBv2ukIbJnzPkt82dhoAr51zeizYUVImbYj/s400/IMG_0519.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508998891274111714" /></a>Everywhere we go kids are drawn to Maggie and she is always open to loving everyone one of them. This little girl started out sitting in front of her at church and half way through the service this is how I found them.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD0ZYv_vmBOnC3pdic_joEF3yLUPPiG6Mum62QHSF40a892GXsWEjIjP6TRukRpirPxysDoybYaovN1L2I0KLSJR_mu2Ez3pt03pBG8aAVDZt3uof-Mh6OyW0tQQ8rYw9hl_crPhZMtTxJ/s1600/IMG_0523.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD0ZYv_vmBOnC3pdic_joEF3yLUPPiG6Mum62QHSF40a892GXsWEjIjP6TRukRpirPxysDoybYaovN1L2I0KLSJR_mu2Ez3pt03pBG8aAVDZt3uof-Mh6OyW0tQQ8rYw9hl_crPhZMtTxJ/s400/IMG_0523.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508998578227274066" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7bfK2oI2_BNd2JSTZMbq283BvpdWXwC57SThF9YpF8Dt2_2Etz7WDnwgXELLka7q4C4uzzWT04kKtIZaryvhSaEDTLjKoWgi4cLvqC18rqdm-NfAbBt1BiIvK1hruPXZTRAFZ7rxwYYj/s1600/IMG_0525.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7bfK2oI2_BNd2JSTZMbq283BvpdWXwC57SThF9YpF8Dt2_2Etz7WDnwgXELLka7q4C4uzzWT04kKtIZaryvhSaEDTLjKoWgi4cLvqC18rqdm-NfAbBt1BiIvK1hruPXZTRAFZ7rxwYYj/s400/IMG_0525.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508998567292142914" /></a>Dwight and Mario have been working hard on the aquaponic gardening system. They have a ton of basil growing, one plant is 10" tall and probably 5" wide ~ time for bruchetta. They are having a great figuring things out together, lot's of cleaning.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMmnb7J0AnqiJAFuZDqUCXJN8KdIloXYcaoDO9Yry73-FF-tE6XU8RE7UYznmxtK6z6aGS_KV4NoJc_rGwNWtIYxyQ2PTVIl3Cip2e0uLwG1hYI76mMytbPHqEMo9Z19f8UEPDcsb0KGv/s1600/IMG_0528.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMmnb7J0AnqiJAFuZDqUCXJN8KdIloXYcaoDO9Yry73-FF-tE6XU8RE7UYznmxtK6z6aGS_KV4NoJc_rGwNWtIYxyQ2PTVIl3Cip2e0uLwG1hYI76mMytbPHqEMo9Z19f8UEPDcsb0KGv/s400/IMG_0528.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508998564885252690" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">LILI...</span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qor8peQPXUrcKtQtEbFd4Xt0Lm7mMjaUZDNBr1g6Wb8-aMS4b_ltdjaJoFWCk2WcrFgPkND0KLo3LqAAG8asXo5KRCgV9c5i5kj5Yx4J67qO7RaCbvaFiwQp-4Vw9DQCXInrMlwvhw1Z/s1600/IMG_0541.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qor8peQPXUrcKtQtEbFd4Xt0Lm7mMjaUZDNBr1g6Wb8-aMS4b_ltdjaJoFWCk2WcrFgPkND0KLo3LqAAG8asXo5KRCgV9c5i5kj5Yx4J67qO7RaCbvaFiwQp-4Vw9DQCXInrMlwvhw1Z/s400/IMG_0541.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508997583901770658" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdkEdukjAbHWVqZzTLcantOg6P14QIBkzioznsxgm8bL81vrTw9cYpdU7zjXO0TnmrgGqlByQF5TSvtMRNma0RVpesfhmCE-eVVskB6KW075zU376cHm_NK9gxzhrZRS5KIrOLcmjigIkp/s1600/IMG_0546.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdkEdukjAbHWVqZzTLcantOg6P14QIBkzioznsxgm8bL81vrTw9cYpdU7zjXO0TnmrgGqlByQF5TSvtMRNma0RVpesfhmCE-eVVskB6KW075zU376cHm_NK9gxzhrZRS5KIrOLcmjigIkp/s400/IMG_0546.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508997577891717250" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_A_f178k2gTUkV8z16RPPo3Ml65huet7TuJ7LIQJ6ZYzEQX0W3p_ZHj99H8ANz9JHJU1CO_LMVx-fwdEVAEEabT4LPEwR5cl6vYTBT1-hOjmjbJHnIRdN89RlwbcfuAO1-NMYnQGorWJ/s1600/IMG_0549.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_A_f178k2gTUkV8z16RPPo3Ml65huet7TuJ7LIQJ6ZYzEQX0W3p_ZHj99H8ANz9JHJU1CO_LMVx-fwdEVAEEabT4LPEwR5cl6vYTBT1-hOjmjbJHnIRdN89RlwbcfuAO1-NMYnQGorWJ/s400/IMG_0549.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508997572340955746" /></a><div><br /></div><div>Every time we drive we pass a puppy vendor, well we couldn't take it anymore! Yesterday we brought home our new puppy Lili. She is a maltese (so they say) and so precious. We are super pleased because she is so well behaved, which tells us that she has been well cared for. The kids were so happy and quite a hit with all the other kids in the neighborhood.</div><div><br /></div><div>We love you all and look forward to sharing more with you soon.</div>Katie McGrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14012148487286783031noreply@blogger.com2