Love in Liberia

Thankful Thursday

2012-02-09T17:06:00.001-05:00

[I'm thankful that I was able to spend my afternoon with Mercy, Esther and Karvaline]

I was sitting here thinking about all of the things I was thankful for. I had a good list going, so I wanted to 'blog it down' (instead of jot it down) real quick. Problem is, it took 10 minutes to upload the above photo, so I can't remember my list anymore. So, let's start again...

Today I'm thankful for:

Laughter.

Huddling up with a few children, playing Bingo, and really being able to talk and interact with them.
Popcorn with lots of butter and salt.

The few hours of electricity I get a day...just enough time to charge computers and batteries, have some light, let the freezer do alittle freezing (cooling?) and enjoy a fan, if needed.

Getting clean at the end of the day.

Ma Mary's cooking--beans tonight! I don't just have food...I have good food!

Clean water to drink

The power of prayer

Someone to wash my clothes because otherwise I'd spend the day doing laundry. (thank you, Marthalyn!)

A family that I love so much...and who love me so much in return.

Friends who aren't just acquaintances.

A God who desires to know me and spend time with me and who delights in me.

Despite the time that I'm away from Liberia, I can come back and pick up right where things left off with friends, coworkers, my Liberian family and the children.

The generosity of others.

My security guards--Momo, Amma, Joseph and Roland. They're not only friends, but they do alot for me (especially Momo), but they are also literally guarding my things and my life with their own life. They also provide for plenty of entertainment and laughter.

Hope.

Love.

I am thankful for so much more, but that's what comes to mind in just a few short minutes. What are you thankful for today?

Day One

2012-02-06T19:01:00.000-05:00

In case you didn't know, I arrived in Liberia yesterday afternoon. My flight was uneventful, and after about 17 hours from the time I left my home in Fayetteville, I was touching down in Liberia. To my surprise, it wasn't hot (I think they said on the plane that it was 86 degrees)--I was fine in jeans and a t-shirt! The airport here can be chaotic, but yesterday's arrival takes the cake! After being hassled by the immigration officer, I entered the baggage claim room. There's a small conveyor belt, and not enough room for people and bags and carts to move around. The walls are lined with air-conditioners, but of course, they weren't on. Apparently the belly of the plane was full of refugee bags, and there were just mounds in the corners of the room. Everyone was digging through the piles to find their bags. The man that I sat next to on the plane and I decided that we would share a cart and try to find our bags. It took us nearly an hour! I was greeted outside by the entire crew--Deb, Cramer, Alvina, Kingsley and Sam. We loaded up in the truck and drove the 40 minutes or so back to the house.

The highlight of the evening was surprising Momo. We managed to successfully keep it a secret that I was coming back, so Momo had no clue. He was calling me about once a week to ask me when I was coming back, but I just kept telling him "soon." Because Momo wasn't expecting me, he opened the gate like usual. As we drove in past him, I starred at him and it took him a second, and then his jaw dropped! It was the funniest thing...he shut the gate as quickly as possible and ran up to the truck to give me a big hug. And of course, he was giggling the whole time. After unloading my bags and surprising Momo's wife Marthalyn, we hopped back in the truck and headed to one of our favorite restaurants to grab dinner. We came back to the house and I unpacked all of the goodies for everyone, but couldn't bring myself to unpack my things. I closed my bags up for the night, said goodbye to my straight hair and took a cold shower outside under the clouds. I was able to sleep for a few hours, but then just laid in bed from 2-5am. Around 9:30am I sensed a dark shadow on my porch, so I murmered "Momo" with my eyes closed. He started laughing and quickly said, "Morning Asslee, it reaching ten...you need to get up and take some hot water. You're not in America anymore." It's so true--I'm not in America anymore, and Momo is at my window.

I was pretty tired today, but I hit the ground running. I joined the Monday morning ORR staff meeting in my PJs--it was great to hug Monica, Piko and Ma Mary. Then Joseph came inside for handshakes and hugs. We finished our meeting and then went to town to run some errands. We came back to the house for a quick regroup and then headed to Frances Gaskins. I was exhausted, but wanted to see my kiddos! Only two of the kids (Jogma and Naomi) knew that I was arriving yesterday, so I laid down in the back seat of the truck to surprise everyone. As we pulled into the yard, Jeremiah saw me in the back and sent out the alert. I opened the door to screaming children, while the door on the other side flung open and kids were climbing through to hug my neck.

Small Joshua isn't so small anymore!

Jogma came running. She was giggling, and hugged my neck multiple time. She was so happy! And then Joshua was brought outside. I couldn't believe how big he is! He will be 6 months old in a few weeks! He's pretty stinking cute, and looks just like his mom. After greeting everyone else, we sat around and just talked and laughed. Jogma had made me a surprise and she presented me with a doll that she had made the clothes for. She just whipped it up for me (and one for Deb) over the weekend. It was pretty sweet, and she's excited to show me how she made them. She made sure that I had some sewing projects for her too! After about 2 hours of sitting under the plum tree talking, it was time to come home for dinner. Ma Mary made me my favorite--pumpkin with pineapple. YUM!

My doll on the left and Deb's doll on the right.

After dinner, Momo and I were outside in the yard planning for our garden. We've already got a plan, and we planted tomatoes in a greenhouse. We want tomatoes in Liberia, so we're hoping this little greenhouse thing that I brought over will work! We just need to buy some 'black dirt' and then we'll get a bucket kit situated under a thatch covering and then start planting!

Afterwards, I decided to go ahead and unpack my things. I've spent the past few hours working up a sweat--unpacking, organizing, sweeping and cleaning. Everything is covered in a thick layer of dust! I took a quick shower and sat down to have another bowl of rice and pumpkin. Our new kitten Manyeh is curled up in my lap and the fan is blowing on us. I'm totally exhausted, and going to go jump in bed to enjoy some more 'fan time' before the generator goes off.

There are so many small things that remind me that I'm back in Liberia. Flushing the toilet with a bucket, the outdoor showers, slow internet, the hum of the generator, sitting out on the porch talking with security guards, the crazy driving, people everywhere, people living life on the side of the road, tucking in the mosquito at night, the laughter and dancing of children, the laid back attitude where there's plenty of time to sit around and talk with friends. All good things, with an occasional frustrating thing. Anyway, this is long and probably boring so I'll end there.

Lucky--the same girl who's at the top of the blog.

It was a good first day back in Liberia. I'm just hoping to get some more sleep tonight, and then it's off to see the kiddos at Danny Feeney tomorrow!

Love in Liberia,

Ashley

One Week

2012-01-28T13:32:00.000-05:00

For those of you that don't know, I will be returning to Liberia a week from today! I will depart Atlanta on Saturday, February 4th and arrive in Liberia on February 5th. Right now, life seems calm. I spent this morning just laying in bed under my fluffy comforter, enjoying silence (until the hammering started), thinking, praying and mentally organizing my to-do list for this week. I'm just enjoying my last Saturday at home!

So now it's time for the honesty.

It doesn't seem real. I don't feel like I'm leaving for Liberia in a week (maybe that's why things seem calm?). It doesn't seem like next Sunday night, I will be sleeping in Liberia, under a mosquito net, to the sounds of traffic, crickets, waves crashing and people yelling. Oh, and the heat! I'm really looking forward to being room temperature--my feet can't wait--and wearing flip-flops and not having to be all bundled up and still be cold. But I hope I can handle the heat...especially on that first night of sleeping. It seriously feels like I've been away from Liberia for a year! So in that sense, I cannot wait to see the kids, my friends and my ORR family! But thoughts like 'oh crap, I'm going back to that way of life' or 'time to return to the world of [fill in the blank]' (commonly filled in with ridiculousness or insanity) are creeping into my mind. And that's when that tinge of dread comes in. (See, I told you I'd be honest)

Here's the deal. Life in Liberia is hard. It's uncomfortable and it's hot. Manual labor is necessary for the simplest of tasks--flushing the toilet, laundry, getting a glass of water, cutting the grass, cooking. It's totally opposite of anything in our familiar, easy and comfortable Western world. Nothing makes sense, everything takes forever and there is alot of frustration. And it's true that Liberia is the loneliest place in the world, even when it's impossible to ever be alone. Some days are disheartening, while others are the absolute best. Some days have death, while almost every day includes poverty, hunger and hopelessness. But every day also includes joy, laughter and beauty. There's no such thing as peace and quiet, which is difficult for those of us who gain strength, rest and renewal from quiet. Liberia is like a catch-22. So much good, but also so much struggle.

Then there are all of the things I can't wait for. I can't wait for life to be simple (despite all of those heavy issues like death, poverty and hunger). There isn't so much stuff and people aren't surgically attached to their technology (and aren't surgically removed from their family and friends). People seem so far away, but God seems so close. There's no TV. Beauty--beauty everywhere you look! You go to bed worn out and exhausted because you had a full day. Daily life feels like it just has more purpose. True community. Total dependance on God. The ocean--my sanity. Ma Mary's cooking. Momo. And of course, the kids! I can't wait for life to be full of their laughter and their carefree spirit. I'm looking forward to weekends in my hammock on the porch, and after dinner walks to the beach. I'm expectant for kids 'getting it' and really understanding their worth in Christ.

When I start to think about Liberia, sometimes I start feeling overwhelmed. I feel a great sense of responsibility with the kids. I'm there to plant and water seeds. Am I saying and doing and teaching and talking about the right things? I have to rely on God SO MUCH. I don't want to miss out, and I want to be fully obedient. The Holy Spirit--my Helper--must be my best friend...there's no other option! And then, some days, there is total peace. I know I'm right where God wants me to be, doing exactly what He's called me to do. You just know when you're in the center of His will--you feel it, your actions and words reflect it and your life fully becomes His. Your dreams become His dreams. Your heart breaks for the things that break His heart. You desire Him; nothing more and nothing less. He is your everything.

Ok, I feel like I've gone all over the place with this one, but those are just some things I'm sitting here (under my fluffy comforter) thinking about while reflecting on His love and faithfulness, and how He will supply all of my needs for the journey ahead. I would appreciate your prayers over this next week--that I would manage my time wisely and enjoy these last few days at home with my family and friends, and that I would mentally, physically and spiritually be ready to get on that plane on Saturday. I'm also looking for people who want to join me on this journey. If you would like to make a donation to Orphan Relief and Rescue to help cover my expenses (plane tickets, malaria medicine, health insurance, room & board in Liberia, etc.), then click here. I love you all and thank you so much for all of your prayers and support! I am looking forward to sharing the next chapter of this journey with you!

For Sale--Last Chance!

2012-01-20T16:37:00.001-05:00

I have a few items leftover from the Good Gifts Market, so I wanted to give you all one last chance to make a purchase before I head back to Liberia. Prices *do not* include shipping.

The most important items to me are the things that Jogma made--I want to sell ALL of it, so that I can take the money back to Jogma in 2 weeks. Jogma is scheduled to start school on January 30th, and she needs the money to purchase text books and to take care of her son Joshua. Please consider purchasing one of Jogma's very special, handmade items--you get a beautiful item, and your purchase will impact Jogma's life.

Clutch: $10--SOLD

Headband: $5 --(L-R:#6-11 available)

Jogma and I sewing on the front porch.

The last two handmade dolls from Alfreda:

Canoe: $25

Rice beater: $20--SOLD

LIB Bracelets: $5

Hand woven in Liberia. Fits any wrist size.

Good Gifts Market Items:

You can visit the Good Gifts Market Photo Gallery to see everything else that is still for sale--Amazing Grace Jewelry, purses, and paintings!

Amazing Grace Jewelry

Original Artwork from Liberia--SOLD

To make a purchase, please leave a comment or send me an email (ashley at orphanreliefandrescue dot org). You can pay with cash, a check or through PayPal.

Red Light/Green Light

2012-01-12T15:13:00.001-05:00

Do you remember playing that game when you were a kid? You know, one person is the stoplight, and the rest of you are racing to see who can reach the stoplight first. The stoplight turns their back to the players, saying “green light,” so the players take off running. At any time, the stoplight can turn around, saying “red light,” and the runners have to freeze. If you don’t stop dead in your tracks, then you get sent back to the start line. We played Red Light/Green Light alot when I was a kid--you only needed a few friends to make the game work.

For some reason, I was thinking about this same concept this morning, but in reference to our relationship with God, and to being obedient to His voice. (Work with me here...)

I’ve been thinking alot lately about how Christians operate. Like when someone says, “God spoke to me...” or “He’s leading me to...”, what do we really mean?! I’m speaking from personal experience here--there are plenty of times when God clearly speaks to me, and in most cases, I am excited about sharing those whispers with others. I know that some people sit there and think, “what does she mean, God speaks to her?”, “God’s never spoken to me”, “did God REALLY speak to her, or is that her excuse?”. I know this, because sometimes I find myself thinking these same things, and I’ve also had people say those things to me. Anyway, moving on...

When it comes to obedience, it’s easy to use excuses, or to be obedient because we’ve told ourselves that God spoke, but really, our human flesh was the one speaking. It’s easy and comfortable that way. But, it gives us a false sense of direction, thus leading us away from His purposes.

I feel like there are two popular ‘schools of thought’ when it comes to obedience. The Red Light School (this is where I’m going...) are those who stop running towards the stoplight until they hear “green light.” I am an expert in the Red Light School, especially when I’m unsure, or I clearly know that God is asking me to do something that I don’t want to do. And then, we have The Green Light School. These students run and run until they hear “red light.” Sometimes I play by these rules...especially if things are going well, things are easy or I’m enjoying life.

Now, I’m not saying it has to be all of one way, and none of the other. And I know that probably most of us spend time in both schools (I hope I’m not the only one). Now, here’s the thing. Taking the Red Light option is fine--it’s cautious and there’s time to ‘think and pray about things’ (you know, because you really want God’s will for your life). That’s great--if you’re actually using the time you’re stopped to pray and seek Him! However, we can fall into the familiar trap of analysis paralysis. I’ve been here too many times.

Lately, I’ve been challenged with the idea of the Green Light School. To keep running towards the stoplight (ahem, Stoplight) until I hear “red light.” To run hard and fast; the goal is the get to the stoplight first, right? Instead of being paralyzed because I haven’t heard God say “Go here, do this, say this...”, I must realize that I am already called to go, do and say. If I’m not going, doing and saying then I am not being obedient.

In this new year (Happy 2012!), I want to be running so hard and fast after God (The Stoplight...just in case...) and His heart, that I just keep running until I hear Him say “red light.” I will say, I am a HUGE fan of the ‘red light time’--silence, solitude, prayer, listening, meditation, rest, etc. I’m looking forward to mixing the schools--running hard and fast, but taking that much needed time to stop and rest. It’s imperative that you stop to rest, listen, reflect and readjust. That’s the thing...in order to know God more, we have to do both! So, here’s to a Red Light/But Mostly Green Light 2012!

Day 1--Christmas In Liberia

2011-12-24T16:18:00.002-05:00

As you begin to celebrate Christmas with your loved ones, I just wanted to give you a glimpse of Christmas in Liberia. First of all, you people are amazing! Because of the generosity of others, there are 353 Christmas bundles ready to be delivered in Liberia! Deb and Matt have been hard at work--Christmas shopping, putting bundles together and then throwing Christmas parties at orphanages. Well, that last part isn't exactly hard work. But it is a very special time of year for the kids. They get their own bundle with candy, a small toy, school supplies, a new outfit and a pair of slippers. The most treasured thing inside each bundle is an apple! Apple's are a big deal in Liberia! First of all, the kids only get an apple on Christmas, but more importantly, an apple in Liberia is a symbol of love. So essentially, each child is receiving a bundle of love (and some fun things) for Christmas! Love from people half way around the world who bought the bundle. Love from their ORR uncles and aunties. Love from a Savior who came into this world for us. Sometimes I think...if only we would get this concept....a simple apple and Christ coming into the world because of His love for us. But instead we tend to get caught up in everything else--lights, trees, gifts, food, shopping, accumulating more, stress, a good parking spot, etc.

Here are a few photos from the Christmas deliveries that have already happened in Liberia. Look at the joy!

And if the photos don't say it all, then here's a look at Christmas in Liberia last year!

Christmas in Liberia 2010 from Orphan Relief and Rescue on Vimeo.

Please take the time this Christmas to slow down and to reflect on the true meaning on Christmas. Think about why we celebrate, and maybe challenge your family or friends to think about Christmas differently this year. Also, take a minute to pray for the kids in Liberia this Christmas. They don't have a Christmas tree or lights, but they have joy and hope and reason to celebrate! And if you forgot...just think about an apple--love.

Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in his name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!

Day 2--From My Heart & My Head

2011-12-24T00:14:00.002-05:00

Just something that keeps coming up, so I’m just going to go for it...

If you’re ever around me, you probably know that I talk about Liberia. Alot. Sometimes I play alittle game with myself--to see how long I can go in a conversation without talking about Liberia. I especially try to play this game when meeting new people. There’s only been one time where I’ve won the game! I sat next to someone on an hour flight and managed to talk the entire time without mentioning in Liberia. I was so proud of myself!

Here’s the deal. I talk about it so much because it consumes me. It invades my mind, it’s stolen my heart, it is my life. In a sense, I feel like I have sacrificed a ‘normal’ life, and instead have chosen an unusual life. Really, God has chosen this path for me, and I just keep trying to listen to His voice. I mess things up, I am selfish, I am lazy, and some days I just don’t even want to get out of bed and face the world. I guess my point is that I’m not perfect, I’m not extra special and five or so years ago nothing like this was even on my radar.

Having said all of that, the reason why Liberia spews from my mouth is because I have fallen in love with a country and with the people. All I can say it that this immense love is God-given. But the other day, I think I came to another conclusion. The reason why I share stories so often is because I have tasted and seen that the Lord is good (Ps. 34:8), and I want other people to taste and see too! I want other people to realize that God can use them, right where they are. I want people to understand that God is real and alive and moving and working. He still performs miracles, answers prayers, and speaks. He is always good and always faithful. His love never ends.

God doesn’t call everybody to Africa. I’m the lucky one; or at least that’s what I’m saying today (ha!). But God calls all of us somewhere--whether it’s to your family, a neighbor, your coworker, a classmate or a total stranger. Our command is to go when we are called. When you think you can’t do it or that you’re not equipped, think again! (I am in no way equipped to do what I do...and there are plenty of days when I know I can’t do it!) When God asks us to do something, He equips us and supplies our every need.

I know what you’re thinking-- ”well that’s easy for you to say.” I hear you, I do. But that’s the thing. I know and I believe and I want others to know and believe. It takes so much to get up out of the boat and take that first step out on the water! It’s scary and uncomfortable. But I promise you, after you take that first step, and as long as your keep your eyes on Him, you can do it! But I feel obligated to also warn you--once you say yes the first time, that’s not the end of saying yes...it’s really just the beginning! It becomes a life of continual yeses. It gets easier, but sometimes it can still be scary or uncomfortable. That’s when I have to look back and keep reminding myself that God has brought me through everything, and that He has always been faithful. He has me, and you, in the palm of His hand! That’s so crazy to think about!

I think I might be prepared to preach a sermon now, and I feel like I could keep going, but I just wanted to share with you alittle bit that’s been on my heart lately. There’s actually been ALOT on my heart and mind, and maybe this post is more for my own self. At the end of the day, it’s not about me at all...it’s about Him. And time and time again, He has my best in mind, and my job is to fully trust. My other job is to keep listening to His gentle whispers and to keep saying yes.

God, help me to hear your voice. Help me to trust you with everything that I am, and with all that I have. Help me to let go and to give up control. Give me the strength and courage to keep saying yes. Give me patience. Jesus, give me clarity and discernment. Enable me to be Your hands and feet to the world around me. Father, I want your best. Take my dreams and desires and make them Yours. Jesus, I need you. Thank you for your grace and mercy. You are so good. Thank you for your continued faithfulness. Father, help me to do everything for Your glory! Amen.

My heart will sing no other name. Jesus, Jesus.

Day 3--The Backbone

2011-12-23T02:11:00.001-05:00

Lately you've been hearing about kids, orphanage directors, orphanages and my teammates...so I thought I'd switch it up. I wanted to introduce you to the ORR field team backbone--our Liberian staff! They work hard, keep us going, sacrifice for us, put their lives on the line, cook, clean, do laundry, go on bread runs, act as a gatekeeper, get sent on crazy errands, love on kids and deal with endless strange 'white man' things (Legos, Trouble, Chutes and Ladders, baseball, composting, American chocolate, rice krispie treats, blueberries, pancake breakfasts, fried okra, ping-pong, surfing, rollerblading, computers, Skyping with someone in the States...I could go on and on). If it weren't for these amazing people, we would not be able to function! They mean so much to our team and the kids, but they really are my second family, my home away from home, my Liberia mother, brothers and friends--best friends. So without further adieu, here are a few beautiful, Liberian souls that bring joy to my day, make life in Liberia alittle easier and who truly are family.

I feel obligated to start the list with my best friend, Momo. If you've spent anytime with me, listening to my forever-long stories about Liberia, then you've heard plenty of Momo stories. I could seriously write a book just about Momo. I am also telling the truth when I say that he is my most favorite person in the world. I have never met anyone so full of life and laughter, innocence and wisdom, and he just makes me laugh...constantly! Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of frustrations that come along with Momo, but it's also pretty hard to get upset at the guy. Momo goes above and beyond on a daily basis; unless he's decided to just relax and think for the day. Momo is our Chief of Security and literally puts his life on the line for us and our safety. But Momo does so many other things! He gets bread and eggs or soft drinks, he helps me garden, he cuts the grass, he paints things, he fixes things, he breaks the things he's trying to fix, he pumps water, he negotiates deals, he finds parts, he sweeps the yard, he cuts down trees, he plants trees, he takes care of chickens, he's the dog whisperer, he sings and dances, he rollerblades, he's been known to use break fluid as lotion, he has an amazing fashion sense, he enjoys talking to my family on Skype, he takes care of visitors, he gets vexed if I'm still out in the neighborhood when it gets dark, he wakes me up just about every morning, he washes cars, he takes out the compost, he carries heavy bags of rice, he loads trucks, he unloads trucks, he translates, he loves giving guests a hard time, he loves telling guests about Liberia, he bathes in the ocean, he removes bottle caps with his teeth, he's a mean bamboo cutter, he can out garden anyone, he can eat 6+ mangoes in one sitting...I think you get the idea! Like I always say, "everyone needs a Momo in their life."

{Momo and Marthalyn's wedding day, with Momo's children}

Momo's sweet and beautiful wife, Marthalyn, is also a part of our Liberian family. Not only is she an amazing woman because she puts up with Momo, but she's pretty amazing because she washes our clothes and helps clean our house. This girl has some serious muscle! She is so giving and humble and hospitable. She works hard; she hardly makes a sound when she's cleaning, but she laughs alot. Some of my favorite times with Marthalyn are when I just go over to their house and sit on the front porch with her as the sun sets. We can spend hours talking and laughing, talking and laughing. We're the tag-team that keeps Momo in line. Marthalyn also takes care of two children (Momo's son and her younger sister), and she also has a small market table where she sells cookies, peanuts, and other snacks (which she somehow finds the time to make--I've seen her roasting peanuts over a fire at 11pm with a headlamp!). Marthalyn is a good friend, and I've really enjoyed watching her loosen up over the past few years.

The true backbone of our house is Ma Mary! She is one of the most humble, Godly, sincere, hardworking and honest women I know! Ma Mary is just that--she's my Liberian Ma! She also keeps the ORR team running by filling our food baskets. She cooks dinner for us during the week--every single meal is cooked full of love, pepper and amazingness! She works her magic in the kitchen, but she also helps me run the relief program. She keeps up with the feeding schedule, buys the food in the market, counts cups and cups of rice and beans, and sneezes away as she counts. She also LOVES the children! We finally figured out a way to get her out of the kitchen and with the kids, so she helps me with the CDP program too. She is a woman so full of God! While she's slicing onions, pounding cassava leaf or slicing pumpkin she is usually praying or singing hymns. It makes my day to hear her praying for the children or humming 'How Great Thou Art'. She has endured and survived the war and loosing her husband, but because of her determination and business sense, she runs multiple businesses so she can put her two sons through college! Pretty much if you have a question or need advice, you ask Ma Mary. I LOVE this amazing woman!

Ma Mary's partner in prayer is Piko! These two women have been friends since they were children, and I always love to hear their stories from growing up together. Piko is a firecracker and so full of laughter! We spent alot of time laughing together. Piko has worked for me every since I started with ORR, and has done an excellent job monitoring our orphanages. She is basically our eyes and ears in the orphanages on a consistent basis. She can tell you who's sick, who's misbehaving, the meals that were cooked, the whereabouts of the children or orphanage staff--she knows it all! Piko also helps with the CDP program. Like Ma Mary, Piko is a Godly woman who enters her prayer closet, for ORR and the children we serve, on a daily basis. On Friday mornings, I make her tea (unless it's just too stinkin hot), we talk about the kids and then we pray. Piko is a giver, and she's been through alot in her life, but she has joy in Christ. She is such a great friend and an amazing woman of God.

Amma is a newer member of the ORR family. He's our weekend daytime security guard. When he was first hired, he was always very serious. We also had some difficulty communicating, because his English isn't the best. But, now we communicate much better and Amma has really blossomed into a very funny person! He laughs and jokes and is quite the character. He discovered rice krispie treats and absolutely loves them! Amma is also a serious gardener, but he doesn't quite get the science behind it all. He frequently dumps entire seed packets into one small pot or covers plants up to protect them from the rain but doesn't uncover them to get some sun, but it's so cute, so I just leave it that way. He loves to just help out in the yard and to learn new things about gardening. I also had the hilarious privilege of introducing Amma to American baseball--the baseball eventually turned into a soccer ball and the car tires became his goal--but he's a die-hard Braves fan (aka he's always wearing the Braves hat that I gave him!). Amma has a sweet daughter, Sinoe, who comes to visit sometimes, and that's when we pull out the coloring books. Amma colors with us too. Amma works hard to try to provide what he can for his daughter, and he was so proud when he was able to register her for school this year--she's 12 years old and it was her first time going to school! Amma's got a big heart and plenty of laughter to go around!

And finally, our driver Joseph. Like Amma, Joseph took awhile to come out of his shell. But once he came out, there was no stopping this guy! He's a true comedian. So much so, that you start to get confused if he's still joking because he thinks it's so funny or because he's actually serious. Not only does Joseph drive us around and take care of our vehicles, but he runs errands, he negotiates for us, he sometimes is like an ambulance driver, he hauls construction supplies, he mentors the older boys and he helps out with the CDP program. If you can't find Joseph, you can usually find him in the garage with his headphones in trying to catch some quick zzz's. He also loves to eat! Whenever I bake with the girls, he always tries to get an entire pan for himself. Joseph enjoys alittle friendly competition, but I've only lost 100 LD (about $1.38) to him. He's a pretty amazing man--he's got three daughter, but has a house full of children that he takes care of by himself. He's a deacon at his church and has a heart to work with the older boys in the orphanages, but he doesn't mind playing Chutes and Ladders or football with the smaller kids. He gets us where we need to be, and provides laughter along the way.

All of these people are integral to ORR's work in Liberia, but more importantly, they are my family. Please pray for our Liberian staff members--that God would bless them and that He would keep them healthy and safe. Pray that God would provide for their families and that He will meet their needs. Pray that God would strengthen them so that they can press on and continue the work that He's called them to. Pray that they would come to know Him in new and fresh ways. Pray that they would be blessed for all of the sacrifices that they make, and that their hearts would continue to be burdened for their fellow Liberians. Pray that they would know Him and make Him known.

Day 4--The First Day

2011-12-22T03:03:00.001-05:00

{February 19, 2007)

This is one of the very first photos I have of myself in Liberia--wasting no time at doing things the Liberian way. I can remember everything so clearly. The smell that infiltrated the plane as soon as the door opened. The sticky night as I walked across the runway. The cramped and HOT immigration area. The chaos outside, trying to get all of our bags loaded into the waiting vehicles. That first drive down the highway. Everything pitch black, with an occasional flicker of a lantern. I was amazed and wondered where the people came from and where they were going. Pitch black. The breeze that smelled of charcoal. Crickets. A gathering of lanterns--friends, meeting for conversation, a drink or perhaps to watch the airport traffic go by? And that's when I heard it loud and clear, in the smoky, humid black night, "welcome home. stay awhile."

That was almost 5 years ago! Liberia is home, and I have stayed awhile. I would have never thought on that night that I would still be there all of this time later. I would never even be able to imagine all that I have seen, done and been a part of. I couldn't even begin think of all of the ways that God would prove His faithfulness; time and time again. It has been quite the adventure, and I can't wait to see what God has in store for the next 5 years! (Or better yet, for the next month!)

Day 5--On the Fringe

2011-12-20T21:22:00.000-05:00

There are some kids in Liberia that stick out to me. Most of the time, it’s the cute and cuddly ones, the trouble makers, the outgoing or funny ones, the ones who are always sick or maybe we shared a meaningful experience together. And then there are the other ones that stand out--the kids that are on the fringe. The problem is that when you’re one of 30+ kids you don’t always get the one-on-one attention that you need. It’s not so bad at first--you don’t do your chores or you stay out late. But then things change--you stay out all night, you refuse to go to school and you even run away.

The kids on the fringe are typically quiet and if given the choice, they don’t want to participate in things. They pop in and out, and some days you never see them. Usually it makes perfect sense to me why a kid is on the fringe--they’re behind in school, they can’t read, they feel like an outcast, or they are made to feel stupid. They’re getting older and becoming teenagers. They test the boundaries. They don’t want to go to school and they’re for sure too cool for our study class time. They want to find friends outside the orphanage, and really they are just going through that teenager stage. It’s funny, kids in Liberia have that awkward, rebellious stage too!

Ever since I first went to Liberia in 2007, the fringe kids tugged at my heart. I think it’s mostly because I felt like I could relate to them. But, I also want them to know that they are loved and that it matters if they are there or not. I make a special effort to acknowledge the fringe kids whenever I visit their orphanage. I want them to know that I realize when they are there. They matter and they are a part of the family.

Please join me in praying for a few kids who are on the fringe. Pray specifically for Patricia, Moses and Robert Lee. But there are other kids on the fringe too. They need to know that they are loved--not just by their caretakers or the ORR team, but more importantly, that God created them just the way they are and that He loves them. Pray for hope--there is hope! Pray for motivation when it comes to school, studying, chores, and that they would realize that the younger kids look up to them. Pray that they would know that they belong. You can pray for the kids who have given up, run away, started hanging out with the wrong crowd, gotten involved in alcohol or drugs...pray for safety, protection and for a change of heart. Pray that God would grab hold of them and that they would know that He loves them like crazy. Pray for us, that we would be able to recognize more kids on the fringe and that we would be able to love on them, and that they would experience His peace, love, joy and hope.

Day 6--Boys and Their Dreams

2011-12-19T20:14:00.001-05:00

Just a few boys and their dreams.

Help make their dreams come true.

Day 7--Girls and Their Dreams

2011-12-18T23:44:00.000-05:00

Just a few girls and their dreams.

Help make their dreams come true.

Day 8--Emmanuel

2011-12-17T16:29:00.000-05:00

{Emmanuel wants his children's dreams to come true!}

Yesterday I shared the story of Jogma with you. Today I’m going to share the story of her father, Emmanuel. Emmanuel and his wife Evelyn are the directors of an orphanage that houses 33 children. They have three biological children (Jogma and two younger daughters), but their huge hearts enable them to love and nurture 30 other children as well! I don’t know how they do it! They have also endured alot--two armed robberies, children becoming teenagers and making poor choices, the death of Emmanuel’s mother--but they press on. They also are very familiar with plenty and want. They know hardship, hunger, terror and suffering; but laugher, joy, hope, determination and love abound!

{Emmanuel teaching a computer class in the school building that he built with dirt, mud, rock and his hands}

Emmanuel is the hardest working orphanage director that I’ve ever met, by far. Not only is he a parent to 33 children, but he also juggles running a school for more than 100 community children, running a successful cold water business, up keeping a large garden, and his hands are always dirty because you can usually find him making mud blocks for another one of his construction projects. Oh yeah! He also teaches adults about computers and wants to start a driving school. And, he coaches and plays on a community football team with young men and kids.

{One of my favorites...a father watching over his children}

Emmanuel and Evelyn don’t just sit back and wait for free handouts. They are constantly doing things for themselves. We dug them a clean water well about two years ago, and Emmanuel decided to start a cool water business. When I left Liberia, he was making a new building to house the generator and freezers for his business out of handmade dirt blocks. He is such a hardworking man!

{Evelyn and I sorting out seeds for their garden}

Emmanuel isn’t the only entrepreneur and hard worker. His wife Evelyn is the main caretaker for the kids--she lines them up everyday for baths, medicine, lotion, powder, fixing hair, brushing teeth and meals. She is the master gardener--they grow enough vegetables to eat at least a few meals a week from the garden. Evelyn also in the charge of the cool water business. She fills bags, ties them, loads up coolers of people who sell their water and handles all of the finances. She also holds sewing classes for the girls in the orphanage, but also teaches women in the community how to sew. And, four months ago, Evelyn added grandmother to her list of duties.

{Evelyn holding a sleeping Eddy}

Emmanuel and Evelyn truly care for their children, and it is so evident. Their living situations are modest, at best. They take care of what they’re given. They have managed to create a warm and inviting home for their children, and for the constant stream of visitors who want to see an orphanage director doing things right. Emmanuel and Evelyn have high expectations, hopes and dreams for their children. Emmanuel never finished college and has spent his life working very hard. He wants his children to have the opportunity to go to college and to have a job. That’s why he opened a school for the community--because education is so important to him!

{An afternoon under the plum tree with Emmanuel}

Those hot afternoons under the plum trees that I talked about yesterday...Emmanuel and Evelyn are frequent participants in the dancing, singing and laughing. Emmanuel will take a break from back-breaking work to sit down and laugh. Some days, he just can’t stop laughing and it makes me giggle to watch a grown man turn into a child! Emmanuel is not just an orphanage director, but he is a friend. We share rice, stories, joys and hardships together. And he loves my cake! Emmanuel greets me with a hug on every visit, and loves to grab my hand (or if he’s covered in dirt, then he extends the top of his wrist--the Liberian way) and show me what he’s working on that day.

We have big dreams in the upcoming year for Emmanuel, Evelyn, Jogma and the rest of the children! We have a dream for a new combined school and dormitory, along with a new security fence. Construction began on the security fence a few weeks ago, and we can't wait until it is complete. We are currently raising funds to start on the school and dorm. You will see below what their current school looks like, and what we hope to provide for them.

Your action steps for today are: PRAY. Pray for Emmanuel and Evelyn--for strength, energy, wisdom, rest and renewal. Pray that God would reign in their home. Pray for safety, security and good health for them and their children. Pray that God would bless them for their sacrifices and that He would bless them beyond measure for their genuine love and care for their children. Pray that God would enable us so that we can better empower Emmanuel and Evelyn--for their sake and for the sake of their children. Join us in making Emmanuel's dream come true by clicking here to donate.

{Rendering of orphanage property and the dreams we have for Emmanuel, Evelyn and their children}

Day 9--Jogma

2011-12-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

{Name: Jogma Dream: Go to college}

Let me start off by saying that when I first sat down to write about Jogma, I ended up writing 7 pages! I'll save you the long version (that's for the book, HA!), and give you the short(er) version.

I can remember my first few interactions with Jogma, nearly four years ago. I couldn’t get over her creativity, intelligence, imagination and high-pitched giggling. I remember thinking that her life must be interesting--she has 32 siblings because her parents run an orphanage in Liberia. Jogma’s parents treat her just like the other children--she shares her bed, she eats out of the same pot and she has just as many chores. Jogma’s the oldest child; a big sister and role model to all of her siblings. She’s also the ‘entertainment coordinator’. We have spent so many hot afternoons under the shade of the plum tree, with Jogma creating the afternoon’s program off of the top of her head. She would giggle as she introduced the “children’s choir all of the way from Sierra Leone” or “performers from America” and then some of the children would jump up and sing a song or dance themselves silly. So much laughter has occurred under those plum trees!

And then Jogma was suddenly a teenager. She was attending school outside of the orphanage. Her friends began to hang out at the orphanage, and then only sometimes would they sit under the plum trees, because most days they were typical teenagers--too cool for that kid stuff. Thankfully, Jogma and I had formed a special friendship, and she would still sit and talk with Aunite Ashley, and we spent hours on the front porch sewing together. Once I began to realize that she was no longer a child, I started giving her responsibilities and including her in the planning of lessons for the older girls. Lots of sewing, baking and more laughter occurred!

When I had to suddenly leave Liberia last year because of malaria and a broken foot, I remember saying goodbye to Jogma. She was in tears. Seeing her tears told me that she really did enjoy our time together, and it was more than a child/adult or student/teacher relationship. We were friends...good friends. I was away from Liberia for nearly 8 months while I regained my strength and while I practically had to learn how to use my left foot again. I longed to be under the plum trees laughing, or sitting on the front porch sewing with Jogma.

When I returned to Liberia, one of my biggest fears became a reality. You see, Jogma was one of the few teenagers, especially when it comes to girls, that I work with that are on track with their education. She was 16 and in the 11th grade. She had excellent grades at a local Catholic high school. She studied, read books (Harry Potter!), helped her parents run their businesses and was essentially a caretaker for all of the children. Jogma had also become good friends with classmates and neighbors...and Jogma was pregnant. I returned to a Jogma that I didn’t know. She stayed inside all day, she was failing her classes, her smile and laughter ceased to exist and that sparkle was no longer in her eyes. I began to fear the absolute worst--her sudden personality change was because something terrible happened, like rape.

She would call me in tears. But when I would come, she didn’t want to talk and would quietly sob. She was kicked out of school, and she no longer had friends Her parents were extremely disappointed and angry. Neighbors were talking and spreading rumors. She couldn’t do it anymore. I didn’t know how to fix things, or what I could even say to make things better. But I would go, and sit, and listen. I would try to dance around the whole baby thing because she would never talk about the baby and she didn’t even seem to acknowledge the fact that she was even pregnant. I would try to talk about names or if she wanted a boy or a girl. I feared that she didn’t want the baby because she was silent. But, one day, I got a call from Jogma--she was so distraught that I couldn’t even understand her. All that I knew was that she wanted me to come.

That was the day I believe things changed. There were alot of tears. She was disappointed in herself and ashamed. She knew that she had let her parents down. She just needed her parents to stand by her during this difficult time. She needed to know that she was still loved, despite her poor decision. She felt isolated and she felt useless because she wasn’t in school. That’s when I let her know that, no matter what, I would love and support her. If she needed to talk, ask questions, or just get away, I would be there.

{Jogma and I sewing on her porch one Friday morning}

Jogma and I had a standing Friday morning date--we would either sit and sew or shop for supplies together every Friday. I knew she looked forward to this time every week, and she loved riding around in the pickup truck to shop with me. We went to doctor appointments together and went to the market to get sewing supplies or things that she would need for the baby. We looked through old magazines for quilting ideas and flipped through cake decorating books. She’s my kind of girl!

We were waiting...and waiting...for any signs that the baby was on its way. We had bets and predictions--when would the baby come, and would it be a boy or a girl. Jogma was pretty miserable, and we joked that that was the sign that the baby was almost here. I took her on bouncy truck rides to ‘bounce the baby right out of her’ and told her to walk walk walk! We (Deb and I) got a call one night that it was time! We went to pick Jogma up from the orphanage and took her to the clinic. They checked her in and got her set up in the birthing room. Once we knew that things were not going to progress quickly, Deb and I went home to get some sleep. Jogma paced back and forth in that hot room all night long. We went the next morning to check on her--she was exhausted because she literally walked around all night long--but still things were not progressing as quickly as we had hoped. We went back later that night for visiting hours, and when we were one our way home, her mom called us to let us know that her water had finally broke! That was just the beginning.

We got an early morning call (like at 4am) from Jogma’s mom to tell us that the clinic was discharging her and wanted us to take her to another hospital because the baby was breech and they weren’t prepared for c-sections. We picked up Jogma and her mom and took the quick 5 minute drive to the nearby mother/baby hospital. When we walked into the maternity ward, it was clear that Jogma had just entered birthing hell. It was dingy and dirty, women were screaming, there were used medical supplies under our flip-flopped feet, there was an ant parade going across the floor and to top it off the staff didn’t have the supplies they needed, they were tired and most didn’t have a bit of compassion in their body. We left Jogma there a few hours later and went home for some sleep and to wait until visiting hours. This cycle continued--morning visiting hours, home for sleep or to get other things done, taxi service for family/friends, night visiting hours, late dinner and late to bed--for the next 2 days!

By the fourth day, we had had enough. Jogma was exhausted and in a terrible amount of pain. I remember one time I went to visit her and they had her sitting out in the middle of the room (where everyone was shuffling in and out), and if she cried out in pain, they quickly told her to be quiet and not to cry. I was furious, so I told her that she’d earned the right to cry and for her to let everyone know that she’s having a baby! I don’t think the nurses appreciated me. By this time, Jogma had been in labor for around 72 hours. Her water had broken two days ago. She wasn’t progressing and she hadn’t eaten or slept in 4 days! Deb and I met with the doctor and practically begged him to put her out of her misery. He straight up told us that he didn’t want to do a c-section because “surgery in this country was risky” and he wanted to wait a few more hours to see if things changed.

A female doctor from South America showed up out of nowhere and basically told us that they would wait two more hours, but that ultimately she believed that Jogma would need a c-section. Then we started talking about what that meant--we needed people to donate blood. Her parents wouldn’t donate blood; they thought the hospital would just sell it. So Deb and I had our blood tested. I’ll admit, I hate giving blood! I haven’t done it since high school because it took me hours to recuperate and I struggled to fill the pint bag up fast enough. Combine that with being in a third world country, not really knowing if the lab tech knew what he was doing, not fully trusting that the needle or the process was safe and knowing that I had bought two sugar donuts on the street for my breakfast.

Because God has a fantastic sense of humor, I was a perfect match for Jogma and Deb was a universal donor. We explained that we didn’t have an adequate breakfast, so we needed to go find something to eat. We headed downstairs to the outdoor market stalls by the hospital gate. Cookies, crackers, water and Coke were the choices--we loaded up on chocolate biscuits, glucose crackers and each had a bottle of Coke. We sat outside and stuffed our faces with the cheapest, worst junk possible (everybody was starring at the white women who were downing chocolate cookies at 9am) and shortly after we were told that the doctor had called for the c-section. We hiked up the 4 flights of steep stairs to the lab.

{The first glimpse of Joshua!}

About 45 minutes later, we went back to the maternity ward to check on the progress. Deb walked into the maternity ward, she popped her head back out and motioned for me to come. There was a tiny, beautiful bundle wrapped up and laying on Jogma’s bed! Big dark eyes were just looking around the room, taking everything in. There was no crying, just contentment. The baby was not wrapped in the girl lappa that Jogma and I had purchased together, but instead, the baby was wrapped in a yellow, blue and green lappa. One of the nurses came out and handed me the fuzzy pink baby blanket that Jogma had bought, and that’s when I realized it was a boy!

Because we had become a spectacle around the hospital over the past 4 days, everyone congratulated us and they wanted to know if it was a boy or a girl. Practically the entire yard was celebrating--security guards, nurses, fellow patients, visitors, women running their market stalls outside the hospital gate--but the best celebration was being able to go back to the orphanage and share the news with all of the kids and show them the baby’s first photo. The front yard was full of complete joy and celebration! So much celebration that half the neighborhood came running! Everyone wanted to see the photo, made a comment about ‘the old man’ and proceeded to thank Deb and I with a very Liberian “tank you, yeah?”.

The next few days were spent visiting Jogma from 7am-8am and 5pm-6pm during the visiting hours. We were usually shuttling people to and from the hospital, and then we’d just sit in a big room and pass the baby around. We kept asking about the name, and just referred to him as Small Joshua after one of my fellow teammates. Hopefully Jogma was decided on Joshua because Small Joshua stuck! After four days of labor and nearly a week recovering in the hospital, Jogma was finally discharged! She was getting around slowly, and was still in quite a bit of pain, but she was sick and tired of the hospital with the constant noise, crammed rooms, people extremely sick and some even dying.

Bringing her and Joshua home from the hospital was a great celebration! I had to take every pothole and turn as slow as possible, which is difficult to do in Liberia, because the smallest bump put Jogma into a terrible amount of pain. When we pulled into the orphanage yard, the kids came running out, singing and dancing, and the neighbors started to gather to get a glimpse of ‘the man that hammocked Jogma plenty’. I’m pretty sure Jogma was just ready for bed!

Because my departure from Liberia depended on Joshua’s arrival, once Jogma was discharged from the hospital, I began to make plans to travel home. I was set to leave Liberia on August 24th--more than a month after I had originally planned on leaving Liberia, and just a week or so away. I would go and visit Jogma and Joshua every day--to check on her pain, to make sure she was taking her medicine and to see if Joshua was eating. We would sit on the bed and oogle over the sleeping baby, talk about her hospital experience and just be silly girls. I got the insider’s scoop from Jogma, and I gave her the scoop on what all was going on outside the maternity ward while Jogma was in the labor zone. Jogma continued to have a good amount of pain and was getting around very slowly.

On the morning of my departure date, I went to the orphanage to spend some time with Jogma. She ended up going to the hospital to get her stitches taken out, so I arrived to Joshua crying. I asked questions and figured out that Jogma had been at the hospital for a few hours...and Joshua was hungry! I called Deb to see what was going on, and Deb informed me that they had to cut Jogma’s wound open and drain the infection and that they were readmitting her. We were to pack up her and Joshua’s things and our driver would come for Joshua, Jogma’s mom and her things. I was disappointed and I really felt for Jogma--more pain, more time in the hospital--and I knew I wouldn’t be able to see her before I left for the airport. I ended up having to call her from the departure lounge to say goodbye. I told her I would be praying for her and that she needed to keep her head up and do what the doctors told her to do. She needed to focus on getting better and taking care of herself and Joshua. She needed to slow down and let her body recover. I also told her that I would leave a large amount of sewing supplies for her so that once she was able, she could get back to sewing!

I came home and, about a week later, got the first report that Jogma and Joshua were not well. These reports were in my inbox for the next three weeks. I was worried and so I called Jogma. It was so great to hear her voice! She sounded more like her normal self. She told me she was ‘trying small’ and I was just hoping that was the truth. Then I started asking about Joshua. I asked if he was doing fine, to which Jogma replied, “oh, Auntie Ashley, he doing fiiiiine. He big-o!” That’s when I knew everything was ok.

It’s like she suddenly went from a young girl to a strong and beautiful woman. I guess that’s what motherhood does to you. I loved watching her interact with her son. I laughed when someone else was holding Joshua and Jogma would watch to make sure they were taking good care of him.

I cannot wait to get back to Liberia and watch Mommy Jogma in action! At first she was hesitant and wasn’t sure what to do. I would encourage her and tell her that she will figure out things along the way. She will learn what Joshua’s cries means, she will figure out what makes him comfortable and she will learn what works best. I also can’t wait to see how God uses Jogma. Not only is she a dear friend to me, but she is a dear friend to so many of the girls in her orphanage, as well as to the girls in the orphanages that she’s taken the time to teach sewing to.

Sometimes there are people in your life that teach you lessons. Jogma is one of those people. She is smart and determined. She perseveres. After seeing her suffering in labor for four days, in a great amount of pain, and with silent tears streaming down her face, I realized that Jogma is strong! Stronger than me. She has so many hopes and dreams, and she is ready to work hard to reach for the stars. She is caring and compassionate. She is talented and uses her abilities purposefully. She is full of life, love and laughter. I don’t think I can say enough good things about this beautiful woman.

Pray for Jogma. Pray as she continues to adjust to motherhood. Pray that she would find rest and that she would just enjoy being a mom. Pray for the relationship between Jogma and Joshua’s father. When I left Liberia, he was still very much a part of Jogma and Joshua’s life. The poor guy was a sleepless, hungry and nervous wreck during those four days of Jogma’s labor. They want to make things work, and I pray that they really can make things work, and that they will become a family in the future. Pray that Jogma is able to reach her dreams--she wants to finish high school and go to college. Above all, pray that Jogma would feel God’s presence in her life and that she will know Him as her Father and Savior.

{Jogma and Joshua last week. He's already SO big!}

If you would like to support Jogma, take a look at Jogma's sewing creations in the Good Gifts Market! All of the money raised from her headbands and clutches will go directly back to Jogma! You can also keep an eye out for more beautiful creations from Jogma once I get back to Liberia!

Day 10--The Puzzle

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

I'm just going to say it. There's alot going on inside my heart and head. There has been alot going on over the past few months, in case you haven't noticed. I am constantly thinking about things, brainstorming, and trying to plan for the future. Some days, it consumes my mind. Life has been plain weird the last few months. And I'll just go ahead and say it--it's not easy to process. It's also not the easiest thing to talk about with others. I think through conversations, or how to answer certain questions. Sometimes, it's almost like a game.

The best way to describe my life right now is like this:

Yeah, remember those stupid sliding puzzles?!

Those things still frustrate me sometimes!

I feel like over the past five years, God has been placing different pieces into my puzzle. I feel like over the past 6 months or so, alot of pieces have been quickly placed into my puzzle. But, the pieces are scrambled. It's like I know I'm supposed to create a beautiful picture with all of these pieces, but the problem is that I don't know what the final picture looks like. The past few months have been part of the process--which is sometimes slow, painful, uncomfortable or confusing--of sliding those pieces around. I'll admit, I'm starting to get impatient about finishing the puzzle, but I'm really looking forward to the moment of placing that final piece into it's place and taking a step back to look at the masterpiece.

Maybe I'm just speaking in metaphors, and I'm not making much sense. That's ok. Most of it doesn't make much sense to me either. That's why I'm sharing this with you...I need your help. I'm asking that you join me in prayer. Pray for wisdom, discernment and clarity. Pray that the clutter and distractions will go away. Pray for His perfect peace. Pray that I will not grow weary during this 'sliding around' time.

I'm also asking that you come along side me during this journey. I need prayer warriors, cheerleaders, people to give of their time or money (more on that later!), people to just sit and listen to me, people to dream big with, encouragers, people to bring me back down to Earth...I need you all! But most importantly, I need to hear clearly from God. I long to hear His voice; which I'm finally starting to hear again. I need a renewed vision and passion. I just need more of Jesus.

Thank you all so much for being my soundboard, my support and my cheerleaders. The longer I do this, the more I realize how people like you are vital. At the same time, the longer I do this, the more I realize that there aren't many people who are in this with me for the long haul. Again, it's all a part of that puzzle. I know God is continuing to place the pieces (sometimes gently, and sometimes not so gently), and right now, I'm just trying to trust in Him for a glimpse at that final masterpiece.

Day 11--Korpu

2011-12-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

Half of the inspiration for the 12 Days of Christmas posts came from seeing photos last week of a girl named Korpu. That name might sound familiar to you Love in Liberia veterans.

{This is the very first photo that I took of Korpu in April 2008. She was terrified of white people!}

I first met Korpu when I arrived in Liberia with ORR in early 2008. She was seriously the saddest child I had even seen. We weren't quite sure how old she was, but knew she was severely malnourished. She was probably 2 or 3 years old, but she couldn't stand on her own or talk. She was more like a 6 month old, and she weighed about 10 pounds. She was literally starving. Her growth and development were stunted. Most days, she was left to sit by herself in the dirt...and usually in her own mess.

We actually became involved in Korpu's orphanage because of her desperate situation. Once we investigated the home and the other children, the reality hit us that if we did not feed these children, they were going to die. The orphanage was hell on earth to a revolving door of 20-25 children. These beautiful, voiceless, scabies and ringworm infested, starving, distended bellied children absolutely stole my heart. I made weekly visits to deliver food, but found myself there at least 2-3 more times a week. Most days, the children were too hungry and lethargic to greet me when I would arrive. It was all I could do to love on these kids and any hint of a smile would make my day! Needless to say, alot of love, blood, sweat and plenty of tears went into fighting for these children.

For nearly two years, ORR was begging the government to shut down Korpu's orphanage. I continued to make frequent visits, but I was also praying that God would give these kids a way out. Eventually, I had to make the toughest decision--to end their food supply because the director continued to misuse it. That was my first big lesson in 'what steps must you take to teach the orphanage director a lesson at the expense of innocent children.' I didn't visit the orphanage for 2 weeks...the longest I'd been away from the children. My mind constantly worried--were they being fed, were they healthy? After two weeks, I made a surprise visit...and the children looked terrible. My heart broke.

{Korpu in November 2009}

During all of this, Korpu was receiving special attention. We were taking her to a feeding clinic for vitamin, mineral and protein supplements. We were working with her to try to get her to walk. We got special shoes and insoles for her. We tempted her to take steps with bananas and cassava root. We had our welfare monitor stretching and exercising her legs to gain strength. I think we were Korpu's biggest cheerleaders!

{Visiting Korpu for the first time when I returned to Liberia in February 2010}

Eventually, we were able to partner with another organization to get Korpu placed in a foster home. We knew that with better care and one-on-one attention, Korpu's situation would improve. The day Korpu set out for her new home was bittersweet. The children, who helped take care of her and who played with her for the past few years, were in tears; which had me in tears. I momentarily felt like I was tearing apart a family, and knew that the orphanage, and Korpu's life, would never be the same.

Fast forward another few months, and a phone call came at 5am that there had been a fire at Korpu's old orphanage. The boy's dorm was practically destroyed, but everyone was ok. The fire was a strange answer to a long-standing prayer! The government moved in and closed down the orphanage! That was about 1 1/2 years ago.

{Korpu last week. Happy and healthy! Photos from GOO's blog.}

Now fast forward to last week. Photos of Korpu were posted on the blog of the organization that placed her in foster care. I was shocked...and then found myself in disbelief...and then I was full of laughter, joy and thanksgiving! All I could do was thank God! It's kids like Korpu that remind me why I'm doing all of this. I might not be able to change the life of every child in Liberia, but I get the opportunity to play a very small role in the lives of a handful of precious children in Liberia everyday. Sometimes I still can't believe that this is my 'job' and that God has chosen me to be a part of His story in Liberia! Thank you Jesus for rescuing Korpu, and so many other children like her!

If you would like to further Orphan Relief and Rescue's work in Liberia and to continue the fight for children like Korpu, please consider making a year-end donation to ORR. Click here to make a tax-deductible donation.

Day 12--The Beginning

2011-12-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

I’m not sure where these next 12 days are going to take me...or better yet, where it will take us. I’ve had some ideas of things I’ve wanted to share with you. There are stories, reflections, thoughts and photos that I’ve wanted to post. This whole thing started off with wanting to share a photo and story of a child with you every day leading up to Christmas. I sat down to write about the first child, and I wrote 7 pages! To say that the kids in Liberia are special to me is a total understatement!

I have had the privilege of crossing paths with thousands of Liberians over the past five years. Yes, it will be five years in February! I cannot imagine life without Liberia, but even more so, without the people of Liberia. From the children that I love and serve and know very well, to the stranger that I pass on my walk to the beach, I am constantly reminded that life is about others. It’s about sending a smile or saying a hello. It’s about jumping in and helping someone out when you see a need. It’s about taking the time to slow down, take a seat and listen. It’s about living in community and having sweet fellowship. It’s about living life with others--sharing in the highs and the lows, the joy and the pain. If life was about ‘me’, then wouldn’t God have put me on this planet by myself?

Liberia, and especially the people there, have taught me that life is not about me. God picked me up and carried me half way around the world to teach me that. Oh, but He’s taught me SO MUCH more! He’s taken me half way around the world to make me uncomfortable, to open my eyes, to stretch and grow me and to make me understand what true poverty and sacrifice look like. More than anything, He has taught me about love. About His love for me, about my love for Him, and about how to love others.

There are plenty of days in Liberia when I just wish I was at home--comfortable, clean, quiet, easy and enjoyable. But then I finally get home, and I’m reminded that life in Liberia is sweet, rich, full, loud, difficult, beautiful, hot and fulfilling. So many people hear my stories or know what I’ve been doing for the past few years and they have this ‘hero’ or ‘awe’ or ‘wow’ attitude. But it’s funny, because I feel like what I do, my life, is just different.

God has put me in Liberia and called me to love. God has put you in your school, place of work, neighborhood, city, etc. and called you to love too. God has called me to see things that nobody should ever have to witness--children dying, women loosing their babies, people sick and suffering, the evil of poverty, the desperation of people who live with a survival mentality and have suffered greatly--but He has also called me to tell their stories. Life outside of my picture-perfect and comfortable Fayetteville, Georgia is hard. Life in Liberia is more difficult than you can probably imagine, but at the same time, life in Liberia is frequently full of hope, love and joy.

I can sit in Ma Tete’s two room shack just outside of Monrovia, surrounded by 8 or 10 of her grandchildren, and she tells me that she has no money. In almost the same breath, she is laughing and full of gratitude for all that God has given her.

I have personally experienced great loss in Liberia, and I’m surrounded by a nation of people who have been through more than you or I can even begin to image--war, disease, famine, unemployment, violence, greed, injustice, spiritual stronghold, desperation. At the same time, I have never seen so much joy and thanksgiving. Sometimes I feel like God is more alive and vibrant in Liberia than at home. I feel like people in Liberia truly understand things like need vs. want, sacrifice, thankfulness, joy and being desperate for God.

My struggle right now is that I feel like I live in a world where I don’t have to be desperate for God. If there’s a problem, or if I need something, I simply go buy something to fix it. People around me aren’t dying or living with terrible and untreatable diseases. People aren’t literally starving to death. People have their basic needs met....and so much more!

I guess I just want to challenge you, myself included, to take a step back this holiday season. Take notice of how much you already have, and then thank God for all of it. Be thankful--thankfulness brings joy. Don’t complain when you don’t get that gift that you really wanted. Ask yourself what you really need. And then be aware of the people around you--do they need anything? Can you help meet those needs? If you can’t find someone around you who has a need, then I’ll challenge you to go to where the needs are. Contact a local church, ministry, shelter, school or food bank. Find out what they need and figure out how you can help. That’s part of the spirit of this time of year anyway, right? If you can’t step out and help those around you during the Christmas season then when will you?

If you’re just stuck or you don’t see any needs around you, then I encourage you to help meet the needs of children in Liberia by making a donation to Orphan Relief and Rescue. We are surrounded, and sometimes overwhelmed, by needs in Liberia. Your donation will greatly impact the lives of some pretty amazing children; children that I will be sharing with you during this little journey.

What a better way to celebrate the birth of our Savior--a man who suffered and sacrificed for you and I--than to reach out to those in need. Remember, this life is not about you (or me).

12 Days of Christmas

2011-12-12T16:38:00.003-05:00

I feel like this time of year is full of people counting. People are counting down until Christmas or the new year. Children are counting down until Christmas vacation. Others are 'counting up' with their Advent calendar. Maybe you're counting the gifts under the tree or items on your to-do list. This is supposed to be 'the most wonderful time of the year', but I find that alot of people are grumpy and stressed out! I hate to break it to you, but none of those things is what Christmas is about.

Christmas is about celebrating the birth of the Savior. It's about reflecting on His birth, grace, mercy and sacrifice. It's about being thankful. It's about putting others before ourselves. It's about helping, loving and giving...sometimes sacrificially. It's about spending time with loved ones--cherishing moments when you can all be together without watching the clock or being glued to the technology that we can't seem to put down long enough to share a meal and fellowship together. {oh, that's another post!}

I've been trying to come up with a way to countdown to Christmas that will not only remember the true meaning of Christmas, but that might also challenge you to think of others and to take a break from the grumpiness and experience some joy. I will tell you now, some posts might make you laugh, while others might make you cry or feel uncomfortable. I hope that you feel challenged, but that you also experience His love, hope and joy! I plan to include prayer and thanksgiving through stories of need and inspiration. A huge part of this countdown will be introducing you to some of my most favorite people in the entire world--the children of Liberia! And honestly, I haven't written anything yet...so we'll see where this journey takes us together!

Starting tomorrow, I'll be counting down...12 Days of Christmas style! I hope that you join me!

Christmas Gifts with a Purpose--Good Gifts Market

2011-12-09T13:24:00.021-05:00

It's that time again! What time, you ask? It's time (well, really it's past time) to roll out this year's Good Gifts Market! I've got some things from Liberia, as well as some handmade ornaments, that I think would make great additions to your Christmas shopping, plus, all of the money goes to help orphans in Liberia! What could be better than that?!

Handmade Christmas Ornaments

I've been doing hours and hours of experimenting with making different Christmas ornaments. Right now, I think I have about 15 different versions, but here are the GOOD ones! Ornaments can either be ordered in regular ($20) or large ($25)

{Name, Dream, Destiny Ornament: glass ornament with a child's photo inside. Can also include Liberian fabric.}

{Glass Etched Ornaments: Choose to put a heart on Liberia, or anywhere in Africa, or no heart at all.}

{Hand painted glass ornament with "shiny-shine" Africa.}

Amazing Grace Jewelry

I'm pretty sure everybody knows how much I love Amazing Grace Jewelry! Amazing Grace beads are made from discarded and recycled glass bottles. The bottles are crushed into tiny pieces, placed in handmade clay molds and heated in a wood-fired earthen oven. Jewelry makers shape the hot glass beads, smooth them and string them by hand.

{The people of Amazing Grace are extremely kind--they have even let some of my girls spend time learning how to make the beautiful jewelry!}

Recycling, provide women in Liberia with income and skills training, getting/giving a great piece of jewelry with a purpose, and all proceeds go to help orphans. Um, WIN-WIN-WIN-WIN! To see all of the pieces that are available, click here.

{Prices range from $10-$50.}

Jogma's Handcrafts

If you've been around here long enough, you've heard plenty of stories about Jogma. You've also seen some of her beautiful sewing projects. She made some things for me to bring home, and I've still got a few items left, so I thought I'd offer them to you! Jogma requires another post, but for now, here are some of her things!

{Jogma and I sitting on the porch sewing. Choose a headband ($10)-9 different lappas-and I only have 3 clutches ($15) left!}

Each item was lovingly crafted by Jogma, who lives at Frances Gaskin Rescue Home in Liberia. Jogma LOVES to sew! Jogma and I spend Friday mornings on the porch together--sewing, talking about life and laughing. Jogma is also quite the business woman! She started a tailoring business, and used the profits to open a dry goods shop. Jogma also helps me teach sewing classes to other kids. All proceeds from Jogma's handicrafts will be given back to her--so she can pay school fees (she's in 11th grade and dreams of going to college). Jogma also needs money to provide for her son Joshua, who is almost 4 months old.

Alfreda's Dolls

Alfreda is a wonderful doll-maker, but I also consider her one of my Liberian friends. I frequently stop by her shop to say hello, to see what new things she's working on, to ask her where I can find specific sewing supplies, or to take visitors souvenir shopping. She learned her doll-making skills from her mother as a child, and it's always exciting to see when a new handicraft is made available in Liberia. Alfreda creates each doll by hand, using natural elements and beautiful Liberian lappa fabric. Alfreda's dolls make a unique and beautiful Christmas gift!

{Canoe Dolls: Dolls set into banana leaf canoes ($25), measuring approximately 15" long and 7"tall.}

{Single Dolls ($20) : ~~Lappa seller~~ , Rice beater, ~~Rice harvester~~ , Displaced mother. All have babies on their backs. Dolls measure 11"-13" in height.

Christmas Bundles

Maybe you're not interested in purchasing anything from the Good Gifts Market, but you want to make a direct impact on orphans in Liberia. For only $25, you can bring joy this Christmas to one of the beautiful children that I work with in Liberia! Please visit Orphan Relief and Rescue's website to buy a bundle (or a few!), and don't forget to write a note to go along with your bundle!

Please look around and leave a comment or send me an email if you would like to make a purchase. You can pay easily through PayPal, and all prices include shipping! Give gifts that matter this year and help orphans in Liberia! Merry Christmas!

Breaking the Silence

2011-11-30T00:11:00.001-05:00

I know. It’s been awhile. Too long. I’ve been home for about 3 months. Hard to believe. Where did the time go?

I have been thinking alot about what to write, how to say things, how open and honest to be. I could never come to any sort of conclusion, so I just didn’t write anything. I’ve known for two months what the title of this post would be, though.

Alot has happened over the past 3 months. Life has been busy. Liberia seems like it was so long ago. Thoughts constantly swirl around in my head. Inner-battles galore. Don’t get me wrong, the last few months have been great...but they have also been difficult.

I’m tired. I can’t bring myself to fundraise. Some days I feel confused about which end is up. I think...and dream...alot. I utter prayers, and pleas, and try to listen through the noise. I need to get away, to be without distractions, to really yearn, and make myself available to listen to those gentle whispers.

I know the answers won’t be tied up in a pretty package and placed gently on my lap--that’s what this whole faith thing is all about, right?! I know that in the struggles, frustration, heartache and pressing-on...that’s where God speaks, moves and works.

I am ready to be right in the middle of Him.

Now, the most commonly asked question is, “when are you going back?” And my answer, right here and right now, is that I am not exactly sure, but I think it will be sometime in January. This timeframe is bittersweet--I miss Liberia and the kids, I was really hoping to be there for Christmas, but I also know that I am not ready to go back yet. I woke up on Thanksgiving morning and the first thought (thing I heard) was, “wait until January.” I was bummed and disappointed--I wanted to spend Christmas with the kids...experiencing one of the truest meanings of Christmas. But, I know that it’s not in my timing, but in His perfect timing.

I also thought it would be appropriate to break silence with gratitude. Thank you for joining me on this journey! Whether you blog stalk me, pray, give financially, donate undies, send encouraging emails...however you’ve been a part of this, THANK YOU! I sincerely cannot do this without each and every one of you!

Breaking the silence is the most difficult part. Now that the silence is broken, I feel lighter, and this is just the beginning of sharing more with you all soon.

{P.S. For those of you wondering...Jogma and baby Joshua are doing very well! Thanks for your prayers!}

Update: Baby Boy & Coming Home

2011-08-22T19:32:00.001-04:00

Baby Joshua--God's miraculousness in a tiny bundle!

Wow, where'd time go?! I can't believe that August is almost over with! So much for blogging at least once a week! Things have been incredibly crazy here in Liberia! There are only two of us on the ground, so we've been working long hours, trying to get everything taken care of. Combine that with plenty of sick kiddos, and one baby that just wouldn't come.

SO...first of all, baby news. After more than 60 hours of labor, no sleep, and finally a c-section, Jogma delivered a healthy six pound baby boy on August 16th! He's lovingly called "Small Joshua", but his name is Joshua. He's so little (but big, for Liberian standards), and does plenty of sleeping! Jogma is recovering from the c-section, and is still in pain, but she's doing well. I have loved watching her be a mom! I've spent alot of time laying in bed, or sitting on the porch with her since she's been home from the hospital. I cannot wait to see her as a mom a few months down the road! But, more on Jogma and Joshua in another post.

Speaking of down the road...

I am still in Liberia because I was waiting for the baby to arrive. I really felt like I needed to 'finish the journey' with Jogma. Even though I swore off being here in August, it has been really great! God is still holing off the rain to help me stay sane, and He's just been teaching me so much over the past month or so! But, since Joshua is here, it's time for me to head home. It is hard to believe that I've been here for 6 months and that I'm still this healthy, energized and feeling good overall! It's such a different world being in Liberia and feeling this good! But, it's time for me to go...even though I wouldn't mind staying longer (as long as this crazy beautiful weather keeps up, ha!). So, I'm leaving Liberia on Friday!! Yes, I know...it's soon! I have a huge to-do list, and I need to have a healthy wrap up/prepare-for-life-in-America-again period. But, most of all, I just want to soak up these last few days with the kids and with my ORR family. A few more days to soak up beautiful weather, sunsets, the ocean, laughter, listening to God's voice (of the Liberian-English variety), Ma Mary's cooking, my best friend Momo, and everything else that I love about this crazy place.

Honestly, thinking about being home in a few days doesn't seem real. In the weird Liberia time-continium I feel like I've been away from home for forever, but I feel like I've only been in Liberia for a few months. I don't think I'm prepared for America--total weirdness, being a face in the crowd (yes!), closed doors and windows, no walks to the beach (boo to being land-locked!), being unable to communicate with my eyebrows, not speaking Liberian-English, not being woken up every morning with Momo at my window, the hum of the generator (ok, I can handle silent electricity!), and being with the kids day every day!

But, there are also so many things that I'm looking forward to--family, friends, my bed, spinach salad, hot showers, peace and quiet, ice cream, sweet tea, my sewing room, my church family, driving on real roads, walking around Target, blending in, walking barefoot on carpet or in the grass, wearing normal clothes, fast internet, geocaching, garage sale-ing, Braves games, my mom's cooking, cooking my own meals, grocery shopping...with choices, veggies straight from the garden...alright I'm getting carried away.

These are some of my random thoughts tonight. I have so much to share with you, but it might just have to wait until I get stateside. Please pray for me in these last few days--that I would finish well. Thank you all so much for your prayers and support over these last 6 months!

(And, for those of you who want to know, yes...I will be heading back to Liberia in a few short months!)

Prayers

2011-08-02T18:57:00.010-04:00

Today has been chaos. Heck, this past month has been chaos! There have been alot of children that have been heavy on my heart, so I thought I'd share some of their beautiful faces with you. It's good to share the burden. And your prayers are much appreciated!

You can start your prayers engines tonight for Joe Sackie. This morning, there was a fire in the kitchen at his orphanage. It was scary, as a burning pot of hot oil got out of control, and eventually exploded into a big fireball. We happened to be there (we don't normally go to that home on Tuesdays), and we had just sent our driver back to the house to pick up some medical supplies. He was supposed to be getting basic first-aid supplies, but thankfully the instructions were lost in translation, and he brought back burn supplies (before there was any burn to treat). Praise God that only one child was injured, but the hot oil splashed into Joe's eye. We sent him to the emergency room at the only eye clinic in the country, and as of earlier this evening, his eyeball sustained a burn, but he is able to see!

Robert Lee is one of my favorites. We have a very special relationship...I'm not quite sure what you'd call it. But, we have so much fun together...and we love to give each other a hard time (or maybe I just love giving him a hard time!). You can pray that Robert Lee would feel and know that he is loved, and that God (and us) will not give up on or forget about him. Pray that God would restore his joy and laughter.

Moses needs to know that he is still a part of this family and that he is so loved. He needs to know that we still believe in him, and that he can do anything that he sets his mind to. He is not a failure, and it's never too late to try. Pray that God would grab hold of his heart and that he would change his ways. Moses needs freedom and encouragement, love and acceptance.

Beautiful Anna. It's alittle more difficult with Anna. She's very quiet and shy, but I know there are some major internal battles going on within her own self. I haven't really been able to get through to her, so you can be praying that the walls would begin to crack, and that there would be honesty and trust. Anna needs to feel God's love and to know that she's beautiful just the way she is!

And then there's Jogma...my favorite sewing, quilting and baking partner! (You might remember some of Jogma's work.) Jogma and I have spent hours and hours together sewing and baking, and there's also plenty of laughter! You can be praying for Jogma because she is due to have a baby any day now! We are anxiously awaiting the arrival of baby M, and there's a big debate on whether we'll have a boy or girl (it's totally going to be a girl!). Pray for continued good health for momma and baby, and for a smooth delivery. Jogma has reached the miserable stage, and we're just waiting for that baby to drop! Despite being miserable, Jogma is still sewing away, and I have a feeling that you will be seeing more of her handiwork very soon!

These are just of a few of the kiddos that I've really been praying for. There are so many more kids that need an army of prayer warriors lifting them up to the throne! Thank you so much for your prayers, and I will keep you updated on these special kiddos!

My Birthday--28!

2011-07-30T17:14:00.009-04:00

A few weeks ago, I celebrated my 28th birthday. It was a great Friday full of favorites! And the celebrating continued on Saturday, too! Here's what my LIB birthday included...

I was greeted in the morning with breakfast in bed (cards from home, OJ and real cream filled Dunkin Donuts--previously frozen, imported and then thawed) while my teammates serenaded me with "Happy Birthday" (wish I had that on film) as I rubbed the sleep from my eyes.

I spent the afternoon baking with my FG girls. It took us about 3 hours to make 3 cakes...mixing everything by hand and baking on a fire...it's the LIB way! We had 2 cassava cakes and one coconut cake. The coconut cake was AWESOME!

And on Saturday, us girls went to the Ethiopian buffet for dinner--YUM! And then I got a big surprise! Deb handed me a key to our friend's suite at Kendeja (the nicest hotel in Liberia), and told me I had it for the night! WHAT?! Hot showers, electricity, running water, air-conditioning, peace and quiet, sleeping in as long as I want, a big bed with no mosquito net and a fluffy duvet to snuggle under.....PERFECT!

Snuggling up since I cranked the air way down...just because I could, and I wanted to make the most of the fluffy duvet. Fast internet meant I could steam IHOP's Prayer Room, and my mom's homemade salsa and chips for breakfast!

I was also able to Facetime with my parents for about 2 hours, so that was great too! I slept in until after 10am, took a second hot shower, enjoyed some more IHOP, did some reading and writing and then finally packed up and left around 4pm! It was a great birthday!

George

2011-07-15T07:47:00.002-04:00

Sometimes there are children who fight hard. The situations and circumstances that they come from are unimaginable. Life is extremely difficult, there are no opportunities, and there is no encouragement or motivation to change their situation--they are oppressed and left without a voice. That is why we are here in Liberia. To fight for these children.

One child who has fought hard is George. George is 10 years old, and now he has a new outlook on life. George came from an terrible and hopeless situation. He was living in an orphanage with horrible conditions, he was sick and hungry and he wasn’t in school. He spent many days wandering around the community trying to find work, and usually doing hard, manuel labor, so that he would have food for the day. It appeared that George would never have a way out of that life.

The good news is that George got out! Orphan Relief and Rescue fought hard for George so that he could attend an excellent boarding school, where he has a clean and safe place to live, and he is finally receiving an education. In the beginning, George was having a difficult time adjusting to a new life of structure and discipline, and he was frequently fighting and causing trouble. One afternoon I sat down to talk to George--to find out why he’s fighting and to encourage him and let him know that I knew the real George and that George did not fight. I went to visit George a few weeks later, and when I saw him, he was standing in the front of his classroom in his crisp uniform and big smile, leading his classmates in spelling words. George was improving.

Fast forward a few more months. George is thriving! He has been participating in our weekly CDP time and every week he eagerly raises his hand to participate. He walks with his head held high and carries that huge smile! A few weeks ago, George sat down and read an entire book to me--something he would never have been able to do before. The next week, I noticed George sitting in the corner reading another book aloud. I couldn’t help but just sit there and smile; thinking about how much George’s life has changed, and wondering what George’s future holds. George is going to do great things--for himself, for others and for the country of Liberia. This is why Orphan Relief and Rescue exists. To help children like George.

Dolls, Dolls and More Dolls!

2011-07-10T08:54:00.020-04:00

Part of the container delivery included more than 100 handmade dolls for the children that I work with in Liberia. Thanks to a kind (and motivated and generous...) stranger (Kim) that came across my blog last year, she started the doll-making train. She inspired others to make dolls for Liberia! Between Kim, me, my sister (Julianne) and the GA's at New Hope Baptist Church, we sewed, stitched, stuffed and shipped more than 100 dolls to Liberia! The girls have LOVED the dolls, and it has been so much fun to hand them out. The container even arrived in time for my mom to help hand out the dolls! Thank you to Kim, the New Hope GA's and Julianne for creating such beautiful, special dolls! And GA's--I will bring the letters home from your new friends soon! Here are some photos!

Blankets4Liberia Update!

2011-07-03T17:43:00.011-04:00

A few weeks ago, it was feeling alittle like Christmas around here! The shipping container arrived, and our house was full of boxes! Included on the container were the 284+ blankets from the Blankets4Liberia pledge, as well as New Hope/HeartCry. Thank you SO MUCH to everyone who participated in the Blankets4Liberia pledge! It's been like Christmas for the kids--everybody getting their very own blanket to stay warm this rainy season, and to help protect against malaria. Here are some photos from the blanket distribution. Enjoy the photos!

More Photos from Sinoe

2011-06-01T17:26:00.018-04:00

Here's a collection of photos from Sinoe. Enjoy!

Sleeping in Sinoe

2011-06-01T16:57:00.006-04:00

This might be one of my Top 5 "Yes, I'm really in Africa" experiences.

The orphanage that we stayed at in Sinoe had grass mat walls, no ceiling, low inside walls and a thatch roof. Let's just say, you hear EVERYTHING! As Deb and I laid in bed on our first night, wondering when the gathering of men in the main room would be quiet and go to sleep, Deb blurted out "what was that?!". I didn't see anything, so I had no idea. Then she started dying laughing. Very unconvincingly she said, "it's just a shadow...it was just a shadow...yes, let's just tell ourselves it was a shadow." Then she confessed...it wasn't a shadow, it was a rat, running around on the sticks (beams) above our head. We decided (or convinced ourselves) that since we tucked in our mosquito net, we would be safe from the rats. Then the clucking, screaming and squawking of roosters and hens began.

Awhile later I became conscious of dogs growling and snorting to my right. By the time I figured out what was going on, the old papie was outside shoo-ing away the pigs from the dogs. The pigs had escaped their pen. All night long, when the snorting got close to the house, the papie was back outside shoo-ing.

And then, at dark o'clock, I was woken up by the loudest rooster I've heard in my life...and in my half-asleep state, I was trying to figure out how it could be right next to my head. Then I realized that the rooster was outside, just on the other side of the grass mat, next to my head. By this time (before 5am), the firewood was being chopped and the pots were being clanked to prepare for cooking...five feet from my head, on the other side of the wall. By this time, I gave up on sleep.

I untucked my net by my feet and slide out of bed. I grabbed my long-sleeved shirt and took a walk out back to go to the bathroom (no bathroom facilities here). When I came back into my room, I realized why there was so much racket last night. I died laughing. This is what I found...

Only in Africa!

Sinoe Trip-Heart of God Refuge

2011-05-30T16:18:00.005-04:00

[Sorry for the delay in posting.]

The main purpose of our trip to Sinoe was to visit PCC's Heart of God Refuge orphanage home. The orphanage is located just outside of Greenville and is home to 12 children. Because the home is in an extremely rural area, they really have to be self-sufficient. The orphanage has a huge farm and piggery. This orphanage really does survive off of the land. The people don't have hardly anything, but the children are well loved and taken care of.

Our friend, Pastor Wleh, has God-sized dreams for the orphanage, farm and two schools. He wants to eventually move from Monrovia to Sinoe so that he and his wife can be at the mission full-time. He wants to continue the orphanage home, but also have a boarding school on the property. The current living conditions are simple and modest--a four-roomed grass mat house with a thatch roof (complete with rats, chickens and plenty of bugs). There is no proper bathroom and the children have to walk a good distance for clean water.

The school at the orphanage has more than 50 students from the surrounding villages, but the building is pretty terrible. Pastor wants to move the school building further inside the property and has already constructed the sticks (posts) and the zinc roof.

After traveling to Sinoe, meeting the children and caretakers, and seeing the current conditions, it is my hope (as well as my teammates) that we will somehow be able to help Pastor and the children at Heart of God Refuge in the very near future! I really can't wait to see how God uses Pastor Wleh in the lives of the children in Sinoe too!

Sinoe Road Trip

2011-05-12T16:14:00.010-04:00

Last week, we set off for quite the adventure! We headed to Sinoe County to visit a good friend's mission--an orphanage, farm, piggery and two schools. The drive took 10 hours, but was just 200 miles! This wasn't my first trip to Sinoe, but it was my first visit to Greenville. The drive is beautifully bumpy--a red dirt road meets lush jungle with small villages nestled inside--and can be a challenge for those of us who get carsick easily. And, it's always great to get out of the city!

[Our quick decline in road quality...and the end result. We were SO happy to reach the paved road when we were coming home!]

Life in Sinoe is much different. The pace is slow and relaxed. It's beautiful, peaceful and quiet. Life is hard and the people work very hard. You live off the land and you learn how to be very resourceful. Life is simple, full of joy and laughter. You know your village and the jungle trails that lead elsewhere very well, and you have no concept of Monrovia, Liberia, Africa or the rest of the world. It's actually pretty nice to escape for awhile!

[Our home in Sinoe--also an orphanage home.]

I'm going to stretch the trip out into multiple posts, just because I have over 800 photos from the three days! And because I wrote a huge post yesterday and Blogger and all it her problems left me a draft with one sentence....well, I just don't feel like writing it all over again.

Fore!

2011-05-07T12:12:00.013-04:00

Last week, we enjoyed a much-needed staycation. I've never had a whole week in Liberia to just relax, curl up with a book or two, sleep and explore. On Wednesday, we made plans to go play golf at Firestone...which usually happens about once a year. Despite the heat, sweat and multiple sunscreen applications, we had a blast! I really enjoy golf, and I think all or most of us decided that we should play more regularly. By the time you rent clubs and pay a caddy, green keeper and ball-spotter, it ends up being about $15 (Green fees: weekday $5, weekend $10. Closed on Mondays.). The best part is that you can be absolutely horrible and wear whatever you want (ever golfed in Chacos in the States?! I think not!) and you're still allowed on the course! We played 9 holes in about 3 hours and 15 minutes...which is much better than the last time, which took more than 5 hours! This was only my 3rd time playing golf and I shot 69 on a par 34 course (9 holes), haha. My strategy included hitting the ball in the trees so that you could play in the shade! My strength getting distance and height, and I really should work on my putting! Anyway, here are a few photos from our golfing day at Firestone.

Camping in Buchanan [for the last time]

2011-05-01T11:33:00.021-04:00

After canoeing across rivers and exploring Edina, we set out for our favorite camping spot in Buchanan. We have camped in this spot multiple times, and we absolutely love it! It's beautiful, secluded and just a great escape from our normal routine.

We had a few hours before the sun went down, so we did alittle swimming, enjoyed a long walk on the beach to collect shells (I've never seen so many shells in one place in Liberia) and did some rock climbing. As daylight faded, we set up camp and collected firewood. We started our fire, started making our dinner (Denty Moore stew on top of mashed potatoes) and settled in for an enjoyable night around the fire. We talked and laughed, had a visitor that we gave our leftovers to, laughed some more, enjoyed the stars and then began to settle in the sand for the night.

I think we all drifted off to sleep around midnight. But less than an hour later, Deb popped up saying, "Josh, Josh...did you hear that?! It sounded like an explosion." I was still half out of it, but rolled over to figure out what was going on. Deb thought she heard something near the truck, so she clicked the remote so the light would flash and the alarm would beep. As soon as she hit the remote, you could hear someone running off into the bush.

CRAP! Someone WAS around the truck...and were there more people?! We waited a few minutes because we didn't know what we would find, and then we all approached the truck. The driver's side window was completely gone and there was glass all over the sand and on the seat. We all started shinning our lights around the beach and the treeline, wondering if we were being watched. We walked around the truck, and realized that there were multiple attempts to break the passenger window, but they were unsuccessful.

Amazingly enough, we called the Emergency Response Unit in Monrovia to ask for a contact in Buchanan. We were give a number, spoke with a very helpful police officer who told us they were on their way to us. We waited for awhile, but still aware that someone could still be around, so we jumped in the truck and just wanted to get to the road. We ended up meeting the police on the road, and they wanted to see the crime scene. We went back to our beloved camping spot to show them the glass in the sand, and then began to follow them to the police station. We were alittle spooked, and when the police headed away from town and into darkness, we decided to head to town to get friends, and then we'd find the police station. We called the police officer and told him that they were driving too fast, so we lost them, and would be at the station soon. We went to wake up Cramer and Alvina and Alvina's dad and then went to the depot. It was literally 100 yards around the corner from where we decided to turn around...but you can never be too safe.

We figured out that the things stolen were: the cooler, a refugee bag with minimal cooking supplies and Josh's backpack with his clothes, Bible, phone and camera in it. We had to fill out a report, drive our truck to another place to leave it for the night (since there was no window) and then ended up invading the Smith house, where six of us piled onto two mattresses on the floor that Alvina's family members had given up for us. We got a few hours of sleep, but then had to be back at the police station at 8am to give our statements. Deb and Josh went to the station--Deb was the one dealing with the police officer on the phone, and Josh because his things were stolen. They came back later and said that me and Davy had to go and give our statements too. It was pretty funny--a handwritten 'form' where I had to put my name, DOB, tribe, mother and father'snames, and the time, location and scene of the crime and the police report. Then we waited around for the UNMIL Police to show up with a digital camera so that they could take photos of thetruck for evidence. After the photos were done, we went back to the Smith's house for lunch (potato greens and red oil), went on a driving tour of Buchanan and then headed back to Monrovia.

The police told us the following morning that they probably knew who took our things, but that they couldn't go investigate because there was no fuel in the pickup truck. We realize that we will most likely never get our things back, but we were so grateful that nobody was hurt and that there was no altercation on the beach! Everybody is safe...and things are just that, things. We joked that whoever got Josh's backpack now has a Bible, and the police will probably go looking for our things (since there's a few valuables) and they won't have to wait on UNMIL anymore because they'll have their own digital camera, haha.

Needless to say, it was a memorable weekend. We are mostly bummed that we will no longer be camping in Buchanan...and that was our favorite getaway. I guess we can still take day trips there...or stay at the Smith house!

Celebrating Easter

2011-05-01T06:03:00.001-04:00

[Massah takes communion and Georgie decorates his Easter backpack]

The past few weeks have been an exciting time for our Child Development Program (CDP). We were working our way to the Easter story, so two weeks ago the children learned about The Last Supper. To make the story come alive for the kids, we took communion--sharing bread and juice together. For most of the children, this was their first time to have communion. This past week, we read the Easter story from the Bible, and then used Resurrection Eggs and the story, “Benjamin’s Box” to make the Easter story more personal to the kids. We also had plenty of great crafts--scratch off crosses to represent our sins being washed away, and some children enjoyed decorating 'He Lives!' Easter backpacks that were donated. We reflected on Jesus’ death and sacrifice, but then it was time to celebrate! The highlight of our CDP time was celebrating the resurrection with the children through music. We danced, clapped, sang, beat drums, and made as much noise as possible. We wanted the children to know that we have reason to celebrate Easter, and everyday, because Jesus is alive!

As for me, I celebrated by Easter by enjoying a serious Sunday morning downpour. I snuggled under my blanket and enjoyed time with my Bible, journal and Easter playlist. We went to church at PCC (where a majority of our Liberian staff attends)--this was my first time to church since I've been back in Liberia. Although I enjoyed it, I was alittle disappointed that we didn't sing any "Easter songs". After church, we loaded up the truck to go and visit the newest Kollie baby. His name is Daniel Moses, he's so cute and tiny! Then we came home, packed up everything, and headed to the Chapman's for the start of our staycation! I spent most of my time in the kitchen preparing our Easter dinner. I LOVE being in a kitchen here--it makes me feel normal! Our special Easter meal was garlic chicken, scalloped potatoes, veggies, bread, fresh watermelon and papaya and an AWESOME sour cream lemon cake (that I might just share the recipe with you) for dessert. We had a great time sitting around the table sharing Easter memories and devouring the delicious food! Then we moved into the air-conditioning to watch Home Alone. And I ended my night with a hot shower (my first since February 19th), and it felt awesome! It was a really great day!

I hope that you were able to take time to reflect on Christ's death and resurrection and that you were able to truly celebrate that He is alive--He's living, moving and working all around us! I also hope that you don't only celebrate at Easter, but that you're able to reflect on His sacrifice and life every day. Happy Easter!

Edina

2011-04-26T08:31:00.012-04:00

Wow...it has been a month since I last posted a blog. Sorry-o! Things have been very busy around here! We had a team here for two weeks, then it was Easter, and now we're enjoying a week of staycation! It's only Tuesday, but I am totally loving this much needed rest! There has been so much going on, and so many great things to blog about, but I have just been lazy or not wanting to sit in front of my computer. But, I'm hoping to catch you up on all of my adventures from the past month. First up: our trip to Buchanan/Edina at the end of March.

We LOVE camping in Buchanan. The beaches are beautiful, it's a great campsite and there's nobody around. More on Buchanan in the next post.

We had been hearing about Edina--an early settlement (1832) that is only accessible by canoe or a horribly long and impassable road --and so we decided to check it out...by canoe! We went to the end of the dusty road where there's basically a canoe port--canoes lining up to carry people and goods across the river between Buchanan and Edina. We were trying to figure out the system and waited patiently once we figured out there was some form of a line going on. There was one larger canoe that we thought we could all fit in, but it was loading a motorbike up to go across the river. The canoe driver said he would get a bigger canoe on the other side and bring it back for us. Oh, and when I say canoe, I mean a hollowed out coconut tree trunk.

[The front of the canoe and the back. Yes, you must wear a hard hat while operating]

He came back with another canoe and two younger, much more able bodied paddlers. We loaded up into the larger canoe plus three of us got inside a much smaller canoe. I was in the small canoe--which held me, Josh, a small boy and the canoe paddler--and it wasn't much wider than my hips andwe were about 6 inches higher than the water. It was AWESOME!

It took about 20 minutes to be paddled across the river, with a few stops to empty water out, but if you don't think about the situation, it's a beautiful ride! We were the stupid ones who decided to start this adventure in the heat of the day, and once we reached Edina we all reapplied sunscreen. I haven't sweated that much in a LONG time!

[The beach in Edina and the main road from where the canoe dropped us off]

Edina was beautiful! It was kind of fun disembarking on unknown land, and we really felt like explorers...not sure where to go and had no idea what to expect. And that lasted about 5 minutes, until a man was passing through and wanted to be our tour guide and wanted us to meet his auntie. We obliged and went to meet his auntie--a super cute, super old lady with coke bottle glasses, who hugged and kissed us all. Then he escorted us to the beach and then back to a few landmarks.

[President Cheeseman's home and the Baptist church, which was founded in 1868. The papie told us the benches and chandelier came from America.]

Us girls wandered off towards a steeple that we could see in the distance, and that's when a very drunk old papie wanted to be our tour guide. He showed us former President Cheeseman's old house, along with the Baptist church. We asked him how many people lived in Edina and his answer was, "five people go to the Baptist church and six people go to the Methodist church." (Once we got home and did more research on Edina, we learned that more than 15,000 people live there) After about 20 minutes or so of his tour and of extreme sweating, we decided we should head back to the canoe. We were paddled back across the river, paid our drivers and set off for our campsite in Buchanan. We ended up paying the canoes 100 LD per person, or less than $1.50US as a charter (they waited for us on the other side), and it was a fun little adventure.

25 Kids in 25 Days!

2011-03-31T13:39:00.003-04:00

Today I made a discovery. There are only 25 more children in our core orphanages that need sponsors. There are also only 25 more days until Easter. So, I had a great [crazy] idea--let's get 25 kids sponsored in 25 days.

Last week was letter-writing week here in Liberia. You would not believe how excited the kids were when they got the name of their sponsor, and realized that whatever they put on their piece of paper would make its way to Mr. & Mrs. So-And-So in just a few short weeks! However, there were 25 children who could only address their letter as "Dear Sponsor." A few kids checked the list over and over again, making sure that their friend's name really wasn't there. After seeing the disappointment on their faces, and having no way to immediately fix it, I decided that this is how I can help.

For $35 a month, you can change the life of a child here in Liberia! Your support will go directly to the needs of your sponsored child and his or her orphanage--daily food, routine healthcare, an education, after-school programs. Most importantly, that child will have the opportunity to learn about God and His life-changing love!

Please consider sponsoring a child during these next 25 days. Easter is a time to celebrate Christ's sacrifice and resurrection, and I cannot think of a better way to celebrate than to bring His love and hope to orphans in Liberia.

Click here to choose your sponsorship preferences...and to change a life!

Hope for Patricia

2011-03-29T13:36:00.002-04:00

It is always exciting and rewarding to see children’s lives drastically improve. Patricia is a child that was once malnourished, uneducated and living in horrible conditions. She has always been sweet and caring, but she has had more responsibilities than any young child should ever be subjected to. Instead of going to school, Patricia spent her days preparing all of the meals and washing the clothes for her orphanage of more than twenty children. Every week when I saw Patricia, I would always ask her what she was cooking that day. I spent alot of time in the kitchen with her--peeling eggplant or cutting greens-- and that is where my heart broke for Patricia.

Due to a series of events, Patricia was relocated to the MacDella Cooper Foundation Academy--a boarding school outside of Monrovia. I went to visit her in her new home for the first time recently, and could not get over how healthy and happy she was! We spent many precious moments together, but the moment that meant the most to me was when I knelt down and asked Patricia what she was cooking that day. She looked at me and said, “Nothing.” I acted surprised and questioned her, “Nothing? You are not cooking today?” She smiled. I proceeded to tell her that I could no longer ask her what she was cooking, because she did not have to cook anymore. I asked if she could go to school and play with her friends and she joyfully said yes. Patricia is now living a life that a nine year old in Liberia deserves--she goes to school, cleans her room and jumps rope with her friends. Patricia is happy, healthy and now she smiles because she has hope.

Rejoice In the Lord!

2011-03-18T06:42:00.007-04:00

[I was able to get 6 of the 9 to pose for a picture]

This past Tuesday was a national holiday in Liberia (Happy Birthday J.J. Roberts!). Although we could have taken the day off, some of us decided to make it a jam-packed day of long car rides and kiddos! We set off for the MacDella Cooper Foundation Academy (MCFA) in Charlesville. After more than a year of planning and talking about getting some of our kids moved to the school, I was able to visit the school for the first time. I wanted to see the place, but more importantly, I wanted to see the 9 kids who moved there! What a great reunion! The 9 kids used to live at the same orphanage as Koiboi, and were moved to one of our core homes after the fire. They moved out to MCFA after I left Liberia in July, so we haven't seen each other in 7+ months!

There were plenty of smiles, laughs, big hugs, jumping into arms and "Auntie Ashley, for longs". All of the kids looked SO happy and SO healthy! We toured the school and had lunch, but after lunch, we went into the dining hall and spent time with all of the children, who were drawing and coloring. It was SO much fun! I had the chance to sit down with each of the 9 kids and write them special little notes in their artist pads and then read them their note. We drew Spidermen, cows, bubble letters and wrote letters to Auntie Elena.

And then there was my conversation with Patricia. Patricia is 8 years old and used to do all of the cooking at the old orphanage (yes, this place really was horrible). I would always ask her what she was cooking that day. I used to sit with Patricia and talk as we sliced eggplant or peeled pumpkin. But on Tuesday, I said "Patricia, I can't ask you what you're cooking anymore because someone is cooking for you." She looked up at me and gave a huge smile. I said, "Patricia, now you can go to school and learn and play with your friends." Patricia gave another huge smile and grabbed my hand.

Before we left, I gave the kids stickers and showed them photos of their friends from their old orphanage. They were giggling and waving at the photos on my camera. Then we took some photos for me to show their friends who were moved to 3 orphanages around Monrovia--talk about virtual pen pals! We talked about how great their new home was. When I asked, the kids all told me that their favorite thing about their new home was "learning" or "going to school."

The stickers I gave them said 'Rejoice in the Lord' and as we were piling into the truck to leave, the 9 kids were singing "Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice." It was a beautiful picture of rejoicing...and rejoicing always. As we 4-wheeled it down the sandy road, I couldn't help but rejoice in such a huge answer to my longstanding prayers! And then I began to think about God's faithfulness--it took a long time to get those kids out of a horrible situation, but God never left them and never forgot about them. He is holding them in the palm of His hand. He has plans for those children--plans to prosper them and not to harm them, plans for a hope and a future.

Worthless

2011-03-14T18:22:00.002-04:00

Thinking about Worthlessnes this week.

Get your Lent Guide here.

Jumping for Joy!

2011-03-10T16:38:00.007-05:00

Us girls had some fun jumping for joy on Tuesday.....

Can we say awesome lighting, beautiful smiles and super fun photos!?!

Lent 2011:Relentless Acts of Justice

2011-03-10T05:21:00.008-05:00

Yesterday was the first day of Lent. Let's be honest, I've never participated in Lent, but I live with a house full of people who participate. We were challenged to think about Lent, and to be in dialogue with God about participating and, if so, if there's something we should give up. My first thought was, "Great, I don't want to do this just because I feel like I have to." But, in praying about it, God told me that it's about alot more than just giving something up. And, more importantly, it's more about how we spend our time. So instead of giving up something like chocolate or soft drinks, I'm giving up my time. My time is much better spent with God--in reading His Word, in prayer, in journaling, in worship, in listening to His voice. There's going to be alot less Facebook and time wasted sitting in front of this computer!

So, now I share the challenge with you. Maybe you have never participated in Lent. Maybe you don't even know what the purpose of Lent is. But I challenge you to get with God and ask Him to use the next 40 days leading up to Easter to reveal Himself to you in new and fresh ways, and to prepare your heart for the Easter season.

I am using the World Vision ACTS Lent 2011 Guide. You can go there and sign up and they will send the guide straight to your inbox each week. The above picture is what the guide is focusing on this year...and I think it's going to be eye-opening and heartbreaking. I'm also very curious to see how God uses the topics (worthlessness, carelessness, helplessness, godlessness, speechlessness, hopelessness) to speak to me (especially considering I'm surrounded by all of those things on a daily basis here in Liberia). And, I might just be sharing with you over the next 40 days too!

The Reunion

2011-03-04T04:56:00.008-05:00

[Koiboi back in 2008--skin crawling with fungus and very malnourished]

Most of you probably know about "my son." You've heard stories and seen photos of Koiboi. I am his Ma and he is my son. We have shared a long and difficult journey together over the past 3 years. There are many times when he serves as my reminder of why I am here, and why I must continue.

When I first met Koiboi, he had just been taken from the bush and plopped down into an orphanage. The orphanage was the worst--the worst of the worst, really. Koiboi was about 3 years old and he didn't even know English. He was confused, neglected and very sick. My heart broke for Koiboi, and for all of the children in that orphanage. I prayed, cried, argued, loved, worried and fought for those kids.

God answered those prayers last year, when there was a fire at the home, and all of the children were removed. Koiboi moved to a great new orphanage. After just one week there, he was already healthier and happier. When I left Liberia in July, I had to see Koiboi one last time. I had this feeling in my heart, and even said out loud, that I felt like I was never going to see Koiboi again. I remember driving away from the orphanage, watching him stand there and wave until we were completely out of sight. My heart broke, but at the same time, I had to trust God--that he would watch over and protect Koiboi--and I had to be ok with the possibility of never seeing him again. I left Liberia knowing I had loved him well, but wishing and hoping that I would have the chance to love him more.

Last week, I found myself on my way to see Koiboi. As we were bouncing down the dirt road, Deb turned around and said, "I wanted to come today because the last time you were here, you said you thought you would never see Koiboi again. I wanted to be here for the reunion." I had honestly forgotten that I had said that, but I had a deep sense of gratefulness and thanksgiving to God for keeping Koiboi safe and protected, and for giving me the soon-to-be sweet reunion.

Our reunions are always the same--Koiboi slowly walks towards me, while playing with his ear and looking at his feet. He usually waits until he's a few steps away before he begins to let on to anything close to a smile. And then there's the bend-over-scoop-up-big-hug-and-kiss Ma maneuver. That's when the reunion begins!

[The Koiboi walk]

[The Ma maneuver]

[Reunited again! Not a bad smile, considering he had malaria]

One Week In

2011-02-28T06:58:00.004-05:00

I have survived my first week in Liberia!!!

It's been an interesting week. I wasn't sleeping well the first few nights, so that just made for one tired Ashley. I was trying to adjust, get some sort of routine and make sense of the chaos that I left behind when I left in July. I spent this weekend getting my room (and life) in order, so I was in bed last night before 10pm! I also went to the beach for a swim yesterday--the water has been cold, but it is just so great to be back at the ocean! Speaking of cold...I have had to use my thin blanket almost every morning! That's how I know that I'm really Liberian, but it's good to be warm. Some of us sat on the front porch yesterday afternoon, playing dominoes and eating popcorn. It was cloudy and my hair was wet from swimming, but I had goosebumps. But, by the end of our game I was sunburned! This is already a strange dry season.

To end on a fun note (I have a more serious post up next). I have discovered the ultimate Liberian doughnut! To make the best use of stale bread, you smother it in creamy peanut butter and then top that with Fundelina. Mmmmm....sometimes you just have to improvise!

Back in Liberia

2011-02-24T06:42:00.008-05:00

In case you haven't heard, I am back in Liberia. I arrived on Sunday afternoon, thanks to the amazing new Delta flight! My travel time went from 24+ hours down to 15! Thank you Delta!

I had trouble sleeping the first few nights, but am better adjusted now. The heat hasn't been bad, which has been a blessing! Ihave gone to five orphanages so far, and it has been really great seeing the kids again! It's kind of strange when you've been away for so long--everyone's excited for those first few minutes, and then it's as if I never left. The good news is that I learned a long time ago that reunions won't be like the movies...but they will be sweet and full of laughter and smiles! Sorry this is short, but here are a few photos from the past few days!

LIB Here I Come

2011-02-19T19:18:00.001-05:00

I am sitting on the airplane, slowly sipping my last glass of OJ for awhile. Taking an 11 hour flight to Accra and then another 2 hours to Liberia. These past 7 months have been awesome...hard...full of love and family...calming....it has been everything. Thank you all so much for your continued prayers and support. I am looking forward to sharing this next step of the journey with you all!

Love in Atlanta,
Ashley

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It Could Have Been Me [Or You]

2011-02-14T23:25:00.001-05:00

Exactly four years ago today, I was running around like a crazy woman and staying up until 3am packing for an adventure of a lifetime. You see, on February 15, 2007, I boarded a plane for Monrovia, Liberia for the first time. February 14, 2007 is a milestone date for me. It was the last day of my so-called "normal life". This is what I wrote in my journal on that night four years ago:

I'm seriously going to just spew out love for 34 days straight. Everything is pretty overwhelming! Hopefully I will get some good sleep tonight; ready and refreshed for the longest, craziest day of my life. My life will never be the same again! That is what is exciting...and scary!"

I thought spewing out love for 34 days was difficult...but [mostly] spewing out love for 4 years is another story! I would have never guessed that four years later, I would still be in Liberia, and it would be called home. I know so much more about the country and culture; and I deeply love the people--especially the children that have so greatly impacted my own life. My life has not been the same since that February 14th four years ago.

Sometimes people ask me questions like, "when did you know that Liberia was your calling?" or "when did it click?". The single experience that made Liberia real and that made this all click happened just 5 days after I arrived in Liberia, and it has to do with a girl named Rosie.

[Rosie greeting me on my last morning in Liberia in 2007]

I remember Rosie so well. Cautious, skeptical, stern looks, the type to just sit back and observe. Rosie hardly said a word. One afternoon, we were sitting inside a thatched wall school, reading books and letting the kids play with my camera. I hadn't figured out how to have conversations with the children in the orphanage about their past. But for some reason, I started asking Rosie about her family, and her life at the orphanage. And for some strange reason, she began to open up and tell me her story.

Rosie had been at the orphanage for four years. She came from far away--"on the other side of the river"--but I didn't know enough about Liberia to know what she meant. She had two older siblings and two younger siblings; she's a middle child, just like me. She likes gospel music and she loves to sing. Both of Rosie's parents died during Liberia's civil war. Two of her siblings went to live with her aunt and the other two went to live with her grandmother. I asked if she got to visit her siblings and she put her head down and was holding back tears. The only thing I could say was, "you don't get to visit often enough, right?" She still kept her head down, without saying anything. Rosie has finally started to open up to me, even asking me about my family, but now she was completely silent. I sat back in my chair and my eyes welled with tears. I tried to watch the other kids playing through my tears, but then I just lost it. I put my hands over my face so the kids wouldn't see my crying and tried to compose myself. That didn't work and I just needed to get out of that room. All of the children became concerned, so I told them I was just going to go outside for a minute. I walked down the back steps and headed towards the lagoon to take a breather.

I wasn't crying because Rosie has lost her parents. Or because she seemed so sad. I was crying because I couldn't imagine her pain. Her siblings were at home and together, and she is the one who got let go of. If I were her, I'd be angry and asking God "why me?!" It was in that moment that I understood her silence. As I walked to the lagoon and back, I wrestled with God and asked why her?!

When I came through the line of coconut trees, all of the children who I had left inside were waiting for me. They all ran up and hugged me and grabbed my hands. I noticed that Rosie wasn't with everyone else. She came walking through the crowd and when she reached me I explained that it wasn't her fault and that she hadn't done anything wrong. I went on to explain that I was sad because she was sad. But that we shouldn't be sad because God gives us hope. The kids smiled and nodded and then we headed back inside to read more books.

That moment with Rosie forever changed my life. Hearing her pain broke my heart, but made me want to love her even more. In that moment, I realized that it could have been me. I could have been that middle child that nobody wanted. I could have been the one shipped off to the orphanage. It could have been me, but thank God that it wasn't. I also realized that I didn't have anything adequate enough to give these kids, but that I could be Jesus' hands and feet.

For the rest of my trip, every morning Rosie would be waiting for me in the driveway of the orphanage. As soon as I jumped out of the van, she was there with a smile on her face and would grab my hand. We would spend hours together under the plum trees, talking and laughing, and she would patiently teach me to crochet. To this day, whenever I show up at her orphanage, the children alert Rosie that I'm there, and she comes out with a smile and grabs my hand. Today, Rosie is a beautiful young woman.

It could have been me. Or it could have been you. But thank God that it wasn't. Thank God for Rosie--that her past and her pain were used to change my life. And that her story can be used to change all of our lives. Because of Rosie, four years later, I am still in Liberia being Jesus' hands and feet to those who need to feel His love the most.

My Return to Liberia

2011-02-02T23:56:00.007-05:00

It is incredibly hard to believe that I have been away from Liberia for 7 months! This is the longest period of time that I have been home since this whole Liberia journey started four years ago. It's been quite the roller-coaster ride, but I managed to finally find a good, comfortable place at home. That's the problem. I feel like whenever I get too comfortable, that means it's time to go back. As we say in Liberia, 'I can't lie'...it's going to be hard, but mostly bittersweet. My last night in Liberia was spent doing this:

Soaking up the fresh and salty ocean breeze, the sound of the waves, the sight of the horizon and the beautiful Liberian sunset. And, feeling like crap. I'd been in bed for four days with malaria and a broken foot. I hadn't eaten anything besides some bread with butter. I was pretty puny.

Home couldn't have come sooner. Home was rough, very rough, for the first two months. Last night I was thinking back to those first eight weeks that I was mostly stuck on the couch watching pointless TV. Having to sit on my butt and pull myself up the stairs with my arms every night to go back to bed. Those moments when I was in tears, just "wanting to be normal."

And then there's the past few weeks. Good weeks. Weeks that have brought growth, new friends, true community, and passionate prayer and praise. Times that I feel alive and better than ever. This is so good but I am already mentally trying to prepare myself to leave all of those things behind. Again, "I can't lie"...there's butterflies, anxiousness, stress and sometimes there's bargaining.

This is when I have to think about what's really important. Who, and what, really matters. For such a time is this. The call, the obedience, the reward. Last night, I poured my heart out in my journal about all of my fears, hesitations, and just feelings of not wanting to leave, and then feeling guilty for feeling that way. And that's when God said, "It's ok to feel this way. I am right here and with you every step of the way. I am going before you and will be behind you. My angels will be all around you. You can do this!"

And then I look at this:

And I think to myself, "Yes, I can do this. It's moments like this that make it all worth it. God, I trust you. Lead me. My heart is expectant, my eyes are open. Give me strength. Fill me with your love and your joy. Help me to show your love and joy to others. Give me peace. Peace that passes all understanding. I seek after you, and when I seek, I will find you. Jesus, be the center."

I'm leaving for Liberia on February 19th....that's 16 days, people!? Please pray for me as I prepare to leave. This Sunday will be my last Sunday at New Hope, so if I don't get to hug your neck....just know that I appreciate and love you all! And, I'm flying standby on the new Atlanta to Monrovia flight, so be praying for open seats! Thank you all for your continued prayers and support and for making it so gosh-darn hard to leave home to go to my second home!

Collard Greens Recipe

2011-01-18T22:52:00.003-05:00

You all have been asking for years for this, and I'm finally going to deliver!

Ma Mary's Americanized Collard Greens

Ingredients:

1 bunch of collard greens

1 1/2 large yellow onions

6-10 cloves of garlic, pressed

3/4-1 cup vegetable oil

1 tsp. Italian Seasoning

1/2 tsp. black pepper

1 large chicken bouillon cube (prefer Maggi)

2-3 Habanero peppers

Serve on a 'Liberian mound' of rice!

Optional: Meat is optional. I usually use about 1 pound of beef stew meat, but you can add chicken or fish as well. I use kitchen scissors and cut the stew meat into small pieces. Toss in a bowl with italian seasoning and black pepper. Drizzle olive oil in a non-stick skillet and over medium heat, cook the meat until it’s almost done. You can add onion and garlic too. (If you want a very spicy dish, cut the top off of a Habanero pepper and add it to the oil first. Let it infuse the oil for a few minutes before adding the meat.)

Preparing the collard greens is the most time-consuming part of the process. Start by cutting off the stem ends. I cut off up to where the base of the leaf starts. The easiest way to clean the greens is to clean your sink, fill it up with the leaves and water and start rinsing. It takes some ‘swishing’ to knock the grit out of the leaf veins. After the leaves are washed, you are going to chiffonade them. Stack the leaves on top of each other (10 leaves or so) and starting on one side, roll the leaves tightly (like a cigar), and then cut across the leaves to make fine ribbons. Liberians cut the leaves as thin as possible, plus they will cook quicker. Keep stacking, rolling and cutting until all of the leaves are all prepared.

Take your onions and cut in half. Then you will thinly slice the onion halves--think shoestring onions. Using a garlic press, press 6-8 garlic cloves. To prepare your peppers, cut off the top and take out the seeds. Quarter the pepper and set aside.

I use an 8-quart, non-stick, stock pot every time I cook my collard greens. Just make sure you have a good sized, non-stick ‘soup pot’ and you will be fine.

Over medium heat, put enough vegetable oil in your pot to cover the bottom on the pot and give alittle depth (3/4 to 1 cup). Heat the oil until it’s warm, about 5 minutes. Add the onion and garlic and saute until tender. Add 1 tsp. Italian seasoning and 1/2 tsp. black pepper. Mix together and cook a few more minutes. Add the greens in batches, and toss so they get covered in the oil. You might have to add some greens and let them wilt down before adding more. After all greens are added, let them cook for about 5 minutes. I prefer to use a good pair of tongs to keep tossing the greens. As the greens start to wilt down you will start adding water, 1 cup at a time. Add 1 cup of water and continue cooking, tossing every 10-15 minutes. After the greens are all wilted, reduce the heat to low and simmer. Crush one large, or two small, chicken bullion cubes and incorporate it, along with your Habanero peppers when you start to simmer the greens.

Keep an eye on the oil/water level--you don’t want it to go dry or the greens will burn. You can add another cup or two of water during the cooking time, which will steam the greens, and then you can toss less often. I prefer my greens to not be crunchy, so I usually cook them for at least an hour (most times closer to 2 hours). During this time I do a few taste tests and add more onion, garlic or spices to taste. Serve in a big bowl, over rice, and eat like a Liberian with a big spoon. You can also serve with fried chicken, pineapple or plantain/banana/root chips.

Helpful Habanero Hints:

This is your chance to control the heat. You can always add more spice, but you can’t take it away. Habaneros pack a punch...especially if you’re not acclimated to spicy food. The more seeds that you leave in the pepper, the spicier it will be. If you only prefer alittle spice, take out all of the seeds; the skin alone will spice the greens. I am very sensitive to hot peppers, so I always handle the peppers with a latex glove. Also, with collard greens, I use red and yellow peppers, so my family and friends can easily remove the peppers (totally not Liberian) if they can’t handle the spice. If you really want it spicy, you can add the pepper in the very beginning when you saute the onion and garlic.

Now you can enjoy a taste of Liberia in your own home!

P.S. I documented my cooking experience because I wanted to be one of those awesome food blogs for a day. But I've decided this post is too long for more photos...so maybe another time.

Happy 2011! [Year in Review]

2011-01-01T01:36:00.003-05:00

2010

It’s been a pretty incredible year.

There have been highs.

And there have been lows.

It’s pretty crazy to think about where this past year has taken me.

The places I’ve been.

The people I’ve met.

The children who continue to change my life.

The ways I’ve seen God move.

It’s been unreal.

A Year in Review Through Blog Entries

In January, you all collected 854 pairs of undies from the Undies4Liberia pledge, and I returned to Liberia.

In February, there was alot of joy and I celebrated my 3 year anniversary of being in Liberia.

March was the beginning of the struggles: struggling to help people and struggling to find hope.

In April, my moment with Yamah made me realize why I’m in Liberia in the first place.

May had celebration, declaration and grief.

June gave more reason to celebrate, and an unexpected twist.

In July, we celebrated a new home, while I adjusted to America and settled into a two-month stint on my couch with a broken foot.

By August, I was sick and tired of being homebound, but just HAD to get to the ocean. The week at the beach freed me from my crutches, and gave me alittle sanity.

September was busy with the ORR staff retreat in Seattle and the missions conference ay my home church.

I spent half of October in Seattle experiencing the life of an ORR home office employee.

November landed me in Virginia for a week of fundraising and reconnecting with God. And, the Blankets4Liberia pledge began.

This December, I have enjoyed the holidays with my family and so many children experienced true joy this Christmas in Liberia!

It has been an unbelievable year! Just in making this post, I've noticed that the year began and ended with YOU! Your love, prayers, encouragement, support and your willingness to get involved in all of these silly pledges--you're the best! I can't thank you enough for all of it! I also noticed that, although this year was my most difficult in Liberia yet(deaths of 2 children, my 'month of darkness'--as I call it, malaria, a broken foot, coming home unexpectedly), there was also alot of JOY!

I wish you a very happy new year! I pray blessings on you this year. I hope that 2011 bring you unending love, a deeper understanding, an abundance of blessings and great, deep joy! I am looking forward to this year with great anticipation because things just keep getting better! I can't wait to share this next year, and this next chapter of my journey, with you!

“Weeping my last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.”

Psalm 30:5

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T23:57:00.005-05:00

I just wanted to wish all of my Love in Liberia friends a very Merry Christmas! I hope that you spent your day with loved ones, and that you were able to pause for a minute to reflect on Christ's birth. I spent my day with my family. Our traditional Christmas morning casserole for breakfast, my sister playing 'gift fairy' as we opened our gifts, a big Christmas lunch, lounging around, game playing, driving around to look at Christmas lights, and it's midnight and I'm still in my pjs! I savor the time where all of my family is together--it doesn't happen often enough. Time spent together, with no agenda or plans and there's no place to be...it's wonderful!

Anyway, blessings to you and your family! I love you all and I am so grateful for each of you--for your prayers, love, support, and just for reading my random thoughts and following me on this journey.

This photos just made my Christmas! It's a picture of Koiboi ("my son") receiving his Christmas gift in Liberia yesterday. I was immediately excited to see how great he looks...and then my heart hurt--I wanted to scoop him up and give him hugs and kisses! And, then I couldn't stop thinking, "look how big and good he looks!" So, from Liberia to Atlanta to you, Merry Christmas!

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Isaiah 9:6

Merry Christmas from Liberia!

2010-12-23T14:10:00.003-05:00

Christmas in Liberia 2010 from Orphan Relief and Rescue on Vimeo.

Thank you to everyone who donated gift bundles this year! But, it's not too late to donate bundles...we will deliver after Christmas too! For just $25, you can fill a child's Christmas with joy and laughter--kids who otherwise wouldn't have a Christmas. Visit the website to donate bundles, and don't forget to write a personal message to go with your bundles! This is what Christmas is all about!

Give Warmth. Give Blankets.

2010-12-22T23:34:00.004-05:00

Even though the pledge is successful in the eyes of Pledgebank, I am still looking for people to donate blankets! My bedroom has blankets everywhere...but there's room for more! An easy way to purchase blankets is with a few clicks, and you can send them right to my door.

Walgreens has fleece throw blankets on sale for $1.99. A friend donated $40 and I ordered 20 blankets! And, if you spend $25 or more, then you get free shipping!

If you'd rather go shopping, RiteAid has fleece throws for $1.77 (offer ends 12/25).

Also, I know that plenty of stores have fleece throws for Christmas, so be watching the clearance racks for good deals on blankets after Christmas...and even better deals on into January. I need all blankets by January 15th. Click the Pledgebank box at the top to sign the pledge and get all of the details! Help keep children warm this rainy season!

Thank you to everyone who has donated blankets so far!

Kiddo Updates

2010-11-29T21:08:00.013-05:00

There is one kind of photo that really excites me. Some call them the 'before and afters.' I like to call them photos of children that were literally on the brink of death, or so malnourished they didn't play or smile...and now they are happy and healthy! Let me share with you a few photos of some children who don't even look like the same children any more! Praise be to God!

Gifty

You might remember Gifty. When we found her, she was incredibly sick. Gifty spent months in the hospital, and we eventually learned that she needed a liver transplant. She has had a very difficult road--battling illness after illness, and just getting no relief. Through the miraculous hand of God, not only was Gifty adopted (adoptions in Liberia were closed), but she also had a liver transplant! This is Gifty just a few weeks ago!

CCF Kids

These children are very special to me. We have traveled a long and difficult road together. Their home really was the 'worst of the worst.' I thought I put it on the blog (I guess not), but I know I had it in my newsletter. Back in June, their orphanage had a fire. The boy's dorm was destroyed. This was an interesting answer to a long-standing prayer--God, send relief for these children! The children were divided up and sent to four different orphanages. These four children went to an orphanage together. After only one week there, they were happier and healthier. Now, it's been a few months. Look at them now--thumbs up!

Being able to step back and see how far these children have come makes me extremely grateful. Grateful to God for bringing relief to these children. Thankful that they are all happy and healthy. Thankful that now they have been given new and improved opportunities in life. God is so good, and I can't wait to share the another great 'before and after' story!

Blankets4Liberia

2010-11-24T00:03:00.003-05:00

It's here!!! My new pledge is up on Pledgebank! I am collecting throw blankets this time, and I need your help. When you're doing your holiday shopping (even if it's at 3am--why?!), please pick up a throw blanket for an orphan, like Lucky. Blankets are needed, especially for rainy season, and they will arrive just in time! Ready...set...go!

Joy!

2010-11-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

The other day, I started thinking about my time in Virginia--how more than a year ago, I had spent a week there, and now I have just spent over a week there. I started thinking about what last year’s trip entailed. It was a week of God--God whispering, God speaking, God teaching, God renewing, God stirring. However, the last 2 days of my trip felt like it cancelled out my week of God. I won’t go into details, but the last 2 days of my trip was the beginning of the enemy stealing my joy.

The enemy loves to steal our joy. Sometimes, he takes huge chunks of joy, and those times are recognizable and painful. Other times, he slowly steals our joy. He comes in the darkness of night, or flies under our radar, and over time we hardly notice how far we’ve fallen into his pit. During my week in VA last year, a huge chunk of joy was ripped away from me. It hurt. It stung. I tried hard to move on, to regain what was lost, but I began to slowly slip into the pit of darkness, lies and complacency. Some of you might have taken notice, and you might not have known it at the time, but this was the during the darkest hour.

I started to feel better and life started to improve. But, I knew that I didn’t feel right inside. I was tired, frustrated, hurt and just trying to keep my head above the water. I knew that I needed His joy back! I would taste joy, or see joy in others. I struggled and wondered what was wrong with me. I wanted something so badly, and didn’t quite understand why it was no where to be found.

Then, I went to Virginia last week. God moved. God spoke in new and fresh ways. God gave me a dream. God put others into my path. God provided time and space to be with Him intimately.

I had multiple people pray for me, and specifically for joy. Nope, I hadn’t told any of them (heck, I didn’t even know them) about my stolen joy, but I’m pretty sure that some people have just seen it in my eyes. One person shared with me that they saw me scanning scripture over and over again, and that this was where my joy would come from. WOW! That took me a minute, or a few days, to really think about. It’s true, though. I’ve been scanning and scanning and searching and praying and listening. Not because someone looked into a crystal ball and told me to, but because God has given me His joy and the desire to draw closer to Him. I have new eyes and a new mind and a new heart. I feel good, and feel like I have a bounce in my step. I don’t feel tired, beat-up and broken down. I feel thirsty, and that my thirst is being quenched, but I also just want more.

You can pray for me, that I would continually be filled with His joy, so that I might overflow into the lives of others. And also, that the joy would just get packed inside in preparation for returning to Liberia. I’m not sure where this will all lead, but I pray that God would fill you with His joy today!

Pray for Bill

2010-11-22T00:00:00.004-05:00

This is Bill. Bill is meek and shy and he's just a super good kid. Last year, he started complaining of "bone pain." We asked alot of questions, trying to better understand what exactly he meant. But Bill was in serious pain from time to time. One day, I showed up at his orphanage and he was in tears--he was in alot of pain and he couldn't move his arms. Without knowing what else to do, I loaded him in the truck and took him to the hospital. He silently cried the whole ride there, and was released that night without any kind of diagnosis.

Deb and Elena, who are currently in Liberia, told us this past week that Bill has been diagnosed with sickle cell disease. As soon as I heard the news, my mind went back to that afternoon that I took him to the hospital--making guests ride in the bed of the truck through the worst downpour of rainy season, but all to get a child in extreme pain to the hospital. My heart broke.

I don't know too much about the disease, but know that living with it in Liberia is going to make life very difficult for Bill. Standard treatments available in the first-world will not be an option and poor healthcare make the possibility of serious complications scary.

I'm asking you to pray for Bill. Pray that the pain would subside. Pray for healing and comfort. Pray that treatments would be made available, and the there would be no complications. Pray for patience and endurance and perseverance--living in an orphanage in Liberia with any disease has to be difficult. Pray for wisdom for doctors and for us, as decisions are made regarding treatment. Lift Bill up to the throne and pray for healing!

Update

2010-11-19T12:43:00.010-05:00

It's been quiet around here. I've been a traveling woman--2,143 miles! I just got home from spending 11 days in Virginia doing fundraising for ORR. The time was jam-packed and it was tiring, but the time in VA was awesome! It's always great to share and connect with new people, and it's even better when God provides divine appointment after divine appointment. And, it's so encouraging when you talk with people who 'get it' and want to be a part of Orphan Relief and Rescue's ministry in Liberia!

[The Nacho Libre Fundraiser at the monastery! Awesome idea and so much fun was had!]

You might remember that I spent a week in Virginia last year at a monastery. I will be the first to admit that I was totally hesitant prior to the monastery experience, and I might have even thought it was alittle weird and goofy. However, there is something special about that place. Other than the wonderful people and the beautiful chapels and grounds, the halls of that place are filled with the Holy Spirit. I lovethe prayer chapel and have been known to spend hours in there, laying on the floor with my Bible and journal and some crayons or colored pencils. So this past week, I just wanted to seek refuge in the prayer chapel--specifically on the floor between the pews of the third and fourth row on the right side--but the schedule was just too hectic. I longed for that space. I needed that space.

So, after an awesome week, and a time of worship and renewal at The Ascent, I decided to stay in Virginia alittle longer than I had planned. The goal of my first day was to spend as much time outside with God as possible. My other favorite place in VA is on the bank of the James River.

[Two afternoons on the James River. Can it get any better than the picnic photo?! And my view?!]

Whenever I had the tiniest bit of free time, I would make my escape to the river! It was freezing cold every time, except God brought the warmth and minimized the winds for my Sunday afternoon on the river! I spent 4 hours there...with my Bible and journal, enjoying His warmth, the water and the sounds of the waves. Then I decided to take a walk, well, more like a trek. The Noland Trail is a 5 mile path through the woods and around a huge lake, and this time of year it was absolutely beautiful with the changing leaves! I set out on the 5 miles, hoping that my foot would hold up. I did all 5 miles and my foot felt great! And has felt great since then! I got back to the river just in time to see the sunset!

[The BEAUTIFUL fall colors on the Noland Trail! God is good and He created us to admire His beauty!]

The goal of my extra morning in VA was to wake up and spend time in the prayer chapel. This was really just a culmination of the week...and a time to find calm and peace, and to thank God for everything that had happened in VA, before I started my 10+ hour drive back home.

So much more happened while in Virginia, and I look forward to sharing those stories with you. I feel like I could write a few chapters of a book right now, so I will stop here for today. I am going to get all of my thoughts in order, and then the storytelling will begin! God is up to some pretty cool things, and His joy is filling my heart on a daily basis!

You're Invited!

2010-10-29T13:29:00.004-04:00

For those of you who are local, I wanted to invite you to HeartCry's annual Pasta Dinner and Silent Auction. You might remember that this event last year raised $30,000 to make a house a HOME for the children at Danny Feeney Memorial Orphanage! The theme of the night is 'Be Love...' and there will be food, fun, fellowship and opportunities for you to 'be love' to others. There will be both a silent and live auction and there are so many super cool things to bid on--vacations, artwork, handicrafts from mission trips, nativity sets from around the world, sports memorabilia, Delta flight simulator hours, and the list goes on!

The goal of the evening is to inform and educate people about needs--local needs (Fayette Youth Protection Home, Department of Family and Children Services, Gracie's Closet, etc.) as well as needs around the world (Liberia, Romania, Haiti, Burkina Faso, Thailand, Ethiopia). A portion of the night's proceeds will be used to improve the ORR field team house in Liberia! We are in need of a new generator, and eventually it would be a huge gift and blessing if we could have running water!

WHAT: HeartCry's Pasta Dinner & Silent Auction

WHEN: Friday, November 5th at 6:30pm

WHERE: New Hope Baptist Church

551 New Hope Road

Fayetteville, GA 30214

COST: $8

Leave a comment or send an email if you'd like a ticket, or you can always buy one at the door.

I will be there with my Liberia/ORR stuff, and would love to see you there!

Change of Scenery

2010-10-09T16:59:00.004-04:00

[The beautiful sunset over the Sound from Day #3. I had to get outside sometime! This is the backyard of the house I'm staying at!]

I've spent this past week doing something I haven't done...ever. I've been sitting at a desk, in front of a computer, in an office, from 9-5 for the last week. By day #3, I declared, "I'm not very good at this." And it was true. It was bright and sunny outside, with a predicted high of 67 degrees...and I was sitting inside, at a desk, in front of a computer. Enough to make this woman go crazy!

I'm up in Seattle until Friday, having my taste of life in the ORR office. I know I just made it sound like some form of torture, but it has also been good. I've been working on, and have almost finished, some new stuff that will provide kids with fundraising tools, and connect them with the kids that we serve in Liberia and Benin. There's been some good brainstorming, but that's been a struggle for me as well. We will be sharing about ORR tonight and tomorrow, so you can be praying for those events. And then it's back in the office on Monday morning. But with Monday comes a lunch date with my long-lost friend Rachel, and dinner with a couple who I originally spent time in Liberia with back in 2007. That sounds like a decent Monday! So as I stay snuggled up in my bed this rainy Saturday (yea, it's after 2pm and I'm still in my pjs and haven't done much more than fry two eggs and do lots of reading), I just wanted to let you all know that I really do appreciate each and every one of you, and thank you for joining me in this adventure!

P.S. Deb and Elena have been in Liberia for a week now! After tackling issues with vehicles, the generator and the internet, they were able to get to some kiddos late in the week and report that everyone is looking really good! Praise God!

Prayer for Deb & Elena

2010-09-30T19:53:00.004-04:00

These are two of my most favorite people in the world. That's us, above, two weeks ago in Seattle. Deb is on the left, and Elena's on my right. Deb and Elena are my friends, encouragers, prayer warriors, roommates, coworkers, sources of laughter, partners in crime, beach bum buddies, rummy on the porch opponents and the two people that keep me (somewhat) sane when I'm in Liberia! After a short time at home to rest, fundraise and to visit with family and friends, they left this morning to head back to Liberia.

You can be praying for them--for safe travels, for flight connections, baggage arriving, adjusting back to life in Liberia (heat, rain, no a/c or running water, daily stresses, etc.), and for carrying the workload on their own while the rest of us remain at home for more rest and recuperation. I know their return will be full of joy and frustrations, wonderful reunions and hesitation...but they can really use all of our prayers. Join me in praying for two of the best prayer warriors I know! I'm looking forward to hearing from them once they get in Liberia and get settled, and I know that God has something great in store for them during this new season! Love you girls!

Send Me!

2010-09-26T21:40:00.012-04:00

I have spent the past 5 days being a part of New Hope Baptist Church's "Send Me!" Missions Conference. Over 20 missionaries and organizations participated as the church celebrated the past 10 years of missions at New Hope, and anticipated the future. It has been a fantastically busy week!

The conference kicked off on Wednesday night with an international dinner, followed by a parade of nations, special music and Dr. Emir Caner really challenged the church. On Thursday, the missionaries had lunch withthe senior adults and Thursday night was a youth event with the Matt Papa Band and Dr. Caner. On Friday night, I had the privilege of sharing with a women's Bible study class over dessert and coffee. Saturday's International Bazaar was a great afternoon of fellowship and fun! We (well, a few good men)recreated an African village--complete with a mud hut, chickens, a well, a typical African school setting, a Land Rover loaded with medical supplies and a bush church. It was AWESOME! It was so much fun to share with people about Liberia and about ORR's ministry. The conference wrapped up today with another challenging message this morning, and then a luncheon for all of the missionaries. We just couldn't stop laughing at our table--all kinds of T.I.A stories were shared amongst us.

This past week has been refreshing and it's always so great to just be able to share about Liberia, ORR and the needs of the children that we serve. I have made new friends, connected with new prayer warriors and it's exciting to think about how everyone can come together and impact people all over the world for Christ! Here are some photos from Saturday.

A super huge thank you to everyone at New Hope who participated, planned and prayed for the conference! I know that God was stirring hearts, opening eyes and calling others to GO!

[And P.S. my suitcase arrived on my front porch on Friday morning! YEAAAA!]

Update!

2010-09-22T22:51:00.008-04:00

I'm beginning to feel ashamed to show my face around here. It's hard to blog when I'm home--you all don't really care about the happenings on this side of the ocean, do you? Between that, and my mind and heart being all over the map, it's hard to come up with a concise thought to share.

So, I'm begging for mercy. Let's start over. For real, this time, I'm going to start blogging more regularly...whether you want to hear about things on this side of the pond, or not. I just tell myself that you want to hear about America too.

I've been home for almost 3 months now. That's pretty hard to believe! My foot is still healing. It's been hurting alot this past week or so, but I think that's just from over-use and not being able to wear my Chacos. You can be praying for continued healing for my foot, and that my lost suitcase (thanks Delta!) will be found, because it contains my comfy Chacos...along with other important things--like my winter wardrobe.

I spent all of last week in Seattle, Washington with my ORR family (that's the whole gang above!) in our new offices. Everyone is home from Liberia right now, so this was literally the first time in 3 years that everyone has been able to be in the same place at the same time. We had a week of teaching, prayer, worship, hanging out, refocusing, counseling, lots of meals together, plenty of laughter, some sunshine but mostly rain, and a silence and solitude day-trip to Mount Rainier (pictured above). We also said bittersweet goodbyes to two field team members (Matt & Mariel) and three office staffers, but we welcomed three new field team members. God must be up to something, because our family just keeps growing! You can pray for us as we go through this season of changes. Pray for me, as I stay home for a few more months--that I would just soak up this extra time at home and that I would use it constructively and creatively.

Today was the start of a 5-day missions conference at my home church. I got home from Seattle on Sunday and hit the group running to get things together for the conference (um, yea, stayed up until 3am). I'm looking forward to reconnecting with people and connecting with new people, while sharing about Liberia and ORR's ministry. You can be praying for the rest of this week--lots of events, interactions and opportunities.

Now that I've tackled the blog update, it's time to begin my newsletter update--which is LONG overdue! Love you all!

Help Orphan Relief and Rescue Win $10,000!

2010-08-06T01:42:00.000-04:00

Help Orphan Relief and Rescue win $10,000! Jake traveled to Liberia this summer with Orphan Relief and Rescue. He is in a local radio station's talent competition, where the winner gets $10,000 for the ministry of their choice...and he has chosen ORR! Here's where we need your help! The first part of the competition is based on number of views his song has on YouTube. You can watch up to 100 times from one IP address per day. So, while you're sitting at your computer, pull up extra windows, stick your computer on mute and keep watching the video! You have to watch it all the way through to count. Right now, he's a few thousand views behind the person in first place, but the videos with the top 5 views will perform for judges on September 4th for the $10,000. So, we need to make sure Jake is one of those Top 5 videos and the YouTube competition ends August 20th! Jake is super talented, and what a blessing and honor it is that he wants to use his gifts and talents to glorify God and help ORR and the children that impacted his life this summer! Please help spread the word! Thanks!

I'm Back!

2010-08-01T23:08:00.006-04:00

[Beautiful day in Destin!]

I've been soaking up the sun, sand and surf in Destin, Florida for the past week, and now it's time to get my blog updated. I enjoyed my five days of sitting on the beach under my umbrella reading my book with the waves crashing and the sand between my toes. I have REALLY missed the ocean since I've been home, so I was absolutely loving it--moon boot and all!

In other news, I finally was able to get behind the wheel of a car today! It was the first time I had driven a car since June 25th (the day I broke my foot), and the first time driving on American roads in 6 months. It was wonderful and freeing--but it's back to the land of speed limits, stop signs, traffic lights and laws. Now my only problem is that I need to find a car that I can use while I am home for these few months. If you have a no-fills, dependable spare car that I can putz around town in, let me know!

And in even bigger news, today was my first day of trying to wear a shoe on my broken foot! I used my time in Destin to transition from crutches to strictly moon boot, and today decided to try the shoe. After church and lunch, my foot was ready for a rest....but it was awesome to be able to get round, even though I was slow and hobble-y. It was great to be able to do the 'Liberian church sway' in church today too! I still need to take it easy, and just continue to be aware of the pain, but I am hoping that my foot will continue to heal and I can become more and more mobile!

[Feels great to have my slippers back on BOTH feet!]

Thank you to everyone who has been praying for me and my foot!

These Made Me Happy

2010-07-20T18:42:00.011-04:00

[L to R: Olivia from Amazing Grace, Naomi, Kumba, Patricia, Ma Ruth, Mercy and Jogma]

I asked Auntie Debbie if she could take some photos of my girls at Frances Gaskins. Not only did she send me photos of the girls, but she sent me photos of the girls at Amazing Grace...working on jewelry! The photos made me very happy...and made me realize how much I miss those girls! I miss Naomi's huge smile, Patricia's between-her-teeth laugh, Mercy's unsuspecting smirk, the spark in Jogma's eyes, Kumba's hand in mine and Ma Ruth playing with my hair.

On Being Home

2010-07-13T13:58:00.006-04:00

Two weeks ago today, I was leaving Liberia unexpectedly. It's hard to believe that I've been home for two weeks....it feels like I've been home for a month! There has been alot of adjustments, especially since I am one-legged and on crutches. It's been rough, I'm not going to lie. But, I have had alot of interesting observations since I've been home. Here are a few:

- I have desperately been missing the ocean. The sound and breeze, but more importantly, the ability to walk to the beach at the end of the day and de-stress.

- I have been incredibly claustrophobic since I've been home. I live in the woods. I go outside and look up and can see a sliver of sky. It drives me bonkers! I miss seeing the horizon, the sunset or the approaching thunderstorm.

- There sure are alot of white people!

- The biggest difference is the fact that everyone lives in their own little secluded bubble. You don't talk with your neighbors. You don't say hello when you walk by someone. You for sure aren't yelling out your window at the guy who tried to form a second lane. Everyone goes about their business and doesn't have the time, nor the interest, in talking to the people around them. Nobody lives their life on the side of the road for the rest of the world to see...you live life inside your house, with all of your doors and windows closed, for no one to see.

- I feel like I live in an aquarium, or like I'm just watching a movie or something. You're always closed up inside of your bubble--usually your air-conditioned house or car.

- I miss my 24/7 open windows and my front porch! I feel like I need to breathe in huge amounts of outside air...no more of this fake, inside, air-conditioned stuff! Problem is...it's too hot here, and there's no ocean breeze, to make sitting outside bearable in the heat of the day.

- Food. Eat. More Food. Snack. Watch Food Network. See commercials of fast food. There is food everywhere! All people do is eat, or think about what they will eat next. It's no wonder America is fat. [I have enjoyed my fair share of good food...but not nearly as much as I was wishing for when I was still in Liberia, haha.]

- Speaking of food--can I just say again how much I LOVE Chick-Fil-A! It's the only fast food I will eat. I still haven't had McDonald's, which kind of surprises me. Most foods seem too salty...so I just feel like a double cheeseburger would taste like a salt block. I have to work my way up to the Micky D's. But, I am LOVING the non-stop produce out of the garden--tomatoes, cucumbers, egg plant, watermelon, cantaloupe, peaches, okra, green beans--it's the BEST food I've had in a LONG time!

- Ok, enough about the food. Let's talk hot showers. Ah! They are wonderful, but I admit, I really miss my outdoor shower!

I couldn't wait to come home to 'just be normal,' but the whole broken foot thing makes that impossible. I can't do most things on my own. It has been challenging and frustrating. I remember in Liberia, just wanting to lay on a comfy couch and watch a movie. Let me just tell you...I'm sick of the couch, sick of movies, sick of TV, sick of the internet. I want to be outside (in that heat?!), enjoying some body of water or horizon or breeze or something.

It has been great being with my family, friends and church! I love them to death! I have missed them all so much! But, I miss my Liberia family, my community, the kids and directors. It's pretty quiet around here. No Momo around here, haha.

I guess those are just some random thoughts on being home. You can continue to pray for my time at home. I have one more week before I head back to the doctor for my foot. I'm really praying that I will get the go-ahead to be crutch free next Friday, but we'll have to wait and see. If I get to ditch the crutches, then I can tell you now that I'm heading for the beaches of Florida!!! And if not, then I'm busting out my new sewing machine! Just pray that I would feel 'normal' soon and that I could fully enjoy being home! Also, that God would use this time to renew, refresh, restore, give new passion and direction, and that He would continue to guide and direct me. Thank you for your prayers!

Broken

2010-07-04T22:31:00.003-04:00

Update: For those of you who don't know, I left Liberia on Thursday to head home. I was sick with malaria, but even worse, I injured my foot. The doctor in Liberia said it was badly sprained and casted it, but I made the decision to come home. Thank goodness I did, because it turns out that my foot is broken! I am on crutches and in an air-cast for the next 3 weeks, and then I go back to the doctor to check on the bone-healing progress. I was originally scheduled to stay in Liberia through the end of August, but sometimes things don't go according to our plans. It is good to be home, and would have been impossible to properly heal in Liberia (especially since the doctor couldn't detect the break). I will be home for the next few months, and would love to see you, have lunch, hang out, share with you and your friends....I'm game! Thank you all for your continued prayers and support, and I will keep you posted on the foot!

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-04T22:24:00.002-04:00

Happy 4th of July!

I have worn my red, white and blue.

I enjoyed the fireworks.

I sang patriotic songs.

I spent the weekend with family and friends.

I ate bbq ribs, baked beans, watermelon, homemade peach ice cream...and more!

I wasn't planning on celebrating the 4th this year, but my unexpected return home enabled me to do all of these things!

It was great!

Thank you to all of the men and women who have fought for our freedom!

I hope you all have a great 4th of July weekend!

Danny Feeney Grand Opening!!

2010-07-02T17:02:00.000-04:00

The homemade invitations that were hanging on trees...awesome!

It was a stormy morning in Cottontree.

The community gathered to welcome the children.

The dining hall was converted for the program.

Bunkbeds, linens, mosquito nets and teddy bears waited for the children.

The girls approve!

Presenting Salome with the dedication plaque.

Hon. Minister Geebro, as well other VIPs got the grand tour.

The group shot with all of the kiddos!

Unexpected Update

2010-06-29T17:15:00.003-04:00

[I know...everyone's dying for some photos of the Danny Feeney Grand Opening. Give me a few more days.]

For those of you that don't know, I have been sick and in bed with malaria since Friday. On Friday night, in an attempt to get back into bed before passing out, I fell and badly hurt my foot. On Monday, I was well enough to venture to the hospital for an x-ray. Thankfully, my foot is not broken, but it is badly sprained. After a family meeting, we all agreed that it would be best for me to return home to the States in order to fully recover and get proper medical care. It would be quite the challenge to keep a cast dry during rainy season, and maneuvering around on crutches has already proven to be difficult.

So, I will be leaving Liberia tomorrow at 5:30pm and flying through Accra, Ghana. I will land in Atlanta on Thursday morning at 8:45am. And don't worry, God's timing is perfect, because I will be traveling home with a team from PTCUMC, so they can all help me out!

I have quickly been reminded that our plans don't always work out, but that God's plans are always the best! I don't know why this is happening, but I can only trust that God knows what He's doing and that He has something super great in store for me!

Thank you all for your prayers, encouragement and support over the past 5 months! They have been the most challenging months yet, and it means the world to me to be surrounded by an army of prayer warriors, encouragers and friends! Please be in prayer for my flights and that my foot would be ok for the 12 hour flight from Accra to Atlanta. Pray as I quickly try to wrap things up here! I already know and realize that I'm just going to have to leave some things undone. Pray for the next few months--that God would reveal His plan for me, in Georgia, during this time and for rest and healing.

Love from Liberia,

Ashley

Playing Catch Up

2010-06-20T16:12:00.021-04:00

Things have been so crazy around here the past few weeks! And, I've been lazy and have been sick and tired of starring at my computer, so I haven't made any posts. But, to catch you all up on what's been going on around here....well, there's alot!

Last Monday, my mom and Jake (fellow New Hoper) left Liberia. They were here for 10 days, and other than a trip to the ER, and the loss of 2 days for Jake, it was great! It was awesome to have my mom back in Liberia and the kids loved it! We spent half of our time working on the new Danny Feeney Orphanage in Cottontree and the other half of the time we did the usual Child Development Program activities. They brought a fun foam cross craft and plenty of glitter and shiny-shine to keep the kids happy! We were able to take in Monrovia, make it to Robertsport and visit old friends from my BJCCV days. The 10 days flew by too quickly and we had a jam packed 10 days! Here are 10 days in photos. [click to enlarge]

Eh, Liberia!

Dear HeartCry

2010-06-08T18:02:00.010-04:00

This post is a super-huge thank you to my HeartCry/New Hope family! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I have been overwhelmed with love, words of encouragement, and treats--lots of treats! Chic-Fil-A sandwiches, Clif bars, granola bars, gum, vitamins, chips, body spray, lotion, things to make my tired feet pretty, etc. etc. Thank you also for all of your notes and cards...you guys are the best! I really wish that you could all be here!!

I wanted to give you all a quick update, and some photos. First, my mom and Jake arrived safe and sound. They both adjusted quickly, and we headed to Cottontree on Saturday afternoon to check out the new orphanage. I hadn't been there in a long time; and it looks awesome! On Monday, mom and Jake got to meet the Danny Feeney kids, and we had a fun cross craft for them. Then today, we went back up to Cottontree to start painting. Jake and I knocked out stenciling Samuel 7:10 on the wall in the dining hall. It looks GREAT! Then we joined my mom and painted the boy's hallway with polka-dots and stars. Tomorrow, mom and Jake will finish the boy's hall and then also do the girl's hallway with butterflies and flowers. Oh, and we also bought mosquito nets today, and they will be hung as soon as the bunk beds are put together. Here are a few photos from the construction site.

Happily Ever After

2010-06-02T18:19:00.008-04:00

Two weekends ago, the ORR gang traveled to Robertsport to attend the wedding of Andrew (our out-going Country Director) and Brenda (our good friend and dental hygienist). The sunset ceremony was small, simple and beautiful! After some photos on the beach, we sat down to big plates of jollof rice, fried chicken and potato salad--all food items needed for a Liberian celebration! All of the guests stayed in Nana's Lodge, and enjoyed some time on the picture-perfect beach! Here are a few photos:

Michael

2010-05-26T16:09:00.008-04:00

I don't think I've talked about Michael on the blog, but he's been in my newsletters and on the ORR blog. You can read more about Michael on the ORR blog--here and here. First of all, thank you to everyone who was praying for him! When I woke up on Wednesday, I was greeted with, "did you hear about Michael?" I said no, and then was told that he had passed away in his sleep in the early morning hours. He died from complications from Hepatitis B--his liver was failing, and he probably lost too much blood. Michael was 18 years old, but he had more faith than me. I visited him in the hospital on Tuesday and he told me that he was praying to walk out of the hospital on Sunday. He also told me that if God calls him Home, then that's fine too. He had peace with life or death; he fully trusted in God. Michael had so much courage and strength. He was an example to us all. We will miss his smile and laugh, but I know that he is in a much better place and his body is whole again!

Nearly two years ago, we lost Massaly. Two children from the orphanage that I was at when I first came to Liberia have been killed. That's 4 children. Dead. Gone. There are so many stages to grief--shock, sadness, guilt, confusion, frustration, anger-- and so many times when all that you can do is ask why. I don't understand how someone can be so faithful, and yet God can still choose to take him away. I really hoped and believed that Michael would walk out of the hospital on Sunday, but he left the hospital early. He went Home. Michael's body was buried on Thursday night, but Michael's smile and faith and courage will continue to inspire and challenge.

I had a peace about Michael's death on Thursday night, as I was in church singing "God of Wonders." It hit me. I was singing about the universe declaring His majesty, and realized that Michael was in the presence of God! And I thought I was the one worshipping, HA! Michael was having a party! I could only smile.

You give and take away, blessed be your name!

Today's Declaration

2010-05-17T08:15:00.002-04:00

Keep your foot [give your mind to what you are doing].

Ecclesiastes 5:1

"In spiritual warfare, the mind is the battlefield. That is where the enemy makes his attack. Satan wants you to think that you are mentally deficient--that something is wrong with you. The truth is that you just need to discipline your mind. Don't let it run all over town, doing whatever it pleases. Begin today to "keep your foot," to keep your mind on what you're doing." (New Day, New You)

The Battle

Today is a battle. Everyday is a battle.

The battle has been raging and the trenches have been dark, deep and lonely.

I have been trying to move; to climb out.

I have been stuck; held down.

I have felt heavy; too heavy to lift my eyes.

There has been a thick swarm, buzzing all around me. Spewing lies.

Pecking away at my weary armor.

Beaten, broken and tired; I gave up.

I laid down--looking for rest.

The swarm trapped me on the ground.

There was no escape--or at least, that is how it appeared.

The burden was too heavy; it was all too much.

I was defeated.

The heaviness grew and weighed me down even more.

The lies grew louder--deafening.

I wanted relief, but felt paralyzed.

Paralyzed by lies, fear, doubt, exhaustion...

the enemy was at war.

I couldn't lift my eyes, much less manage to lift my weapon.

I felt alone and unable to fight.

I was drowning.

Everywhere I looked, I could only see the swarm.

I was disoriented--blinded.

Just when I thought I couldn't take it anymore, I was rescued.

Rescued by my Savior.

I was scooped up out of the trenches, and taken away from it all.

The swarm was left all alone, to spew lies to each other.

They tried to follow, but my Protector warned...no, commanded them to stay away.

My eyes could finally see and my ears were opened.

Restoration.

Peace.

Relief.

The darkness and heaviness no longer surrounds me.

The Light has come.

My armor was gently placed back on my body by my Commander.

Whispers of love.

Comfort.

Encouragement.

Hope.

Fills the air.

My Lord is here; ready to fight against the enemy for me.

I cannot fight this battle; it's too complicated and ugly.

My King has sent guards to surround and protect me.

This battle belong to my Lord.

He is victorious.

He has overcome.

I saw the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest in hope, because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, you will not let your holy one see decay. You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.

Acts 2:25-28

Hmm...yea. That's my declaration for this Monday. Let's just say, things have not been easy. But, things are looking up! Thank you all for your love, prayers and support!