swedeheart

Blessings

2012-02-05T15:35:00.002-06:00

Every day I find new reminders of God’s blessing in my life! And this past week I was reminded that these blessings don’t always come with big fanfare—sometimes they are found in something as simple as a picture drawn by a child! My refrigerator doors are currently covered in artwork—with a file full of more in my office! Simple drawings and projects given to me by kids in my neighborhood. Simple drawings—but given out of love and kindness! Reminders of what an incredible blessing it is to be able to serve the Lord here in Sweden!
I am so incredibly thankful for the ministry God has allowed me to be a part of during this past year! Can you believe I’ve been here for more than a year now? I don’t know where the time went! God has been so good, as He always is—regardless the circumstances!

I am really excited about this year! There’s a lot going on—and a lot to look forward to!

Language School
In the middle of January, I started my last language school class! I’m excited to be done soon—though there is much work to be done before the class is over! I even have a research paper to write—though thankfully it’s a group project!

Music and Writing
I also have several music and writing projects underway! I am working on finishing up an Easter cantata that I have been working on for a while now. I have also started to write a children’s series—using a radio-style format—to teach Biblical truths with stories and songs. I’m doing this first in English—with the goal of getting it translated into Swedish in order to use with the children here! Please pray for these projects—that God will be glorified and the gospel clearly presented!

Conference
We have also begun planning for a ladies’ conference to be held here in Jönköping sometime in the fall! We will be inviting other Christian ladies from all over Sweden to join us for a time of study and encouragement in God’s Word! Please pray that God will even now begin preparing hearts and minds for the teaching of His Word!

Church Ministry
Today, after the celebration of the Lord’s Supper, our church installed our fist deacon! What a blessing it is to see God at work in our church! I’m very thankful for our church family!
Please keep us in your prayers!

Thank you for the blessing that you are in my life! Thank you for your prayers, love, support and encouragement! May God bless you as you serve Him!

Dog and Cat

2011-11-09T02:21:00.002-06:00

I'm babysitting for a friend today - and part of that job includes trying to broker peace between my dog and their cat!
Just about every time I go to their house, Riley comes along. And just about every time Riley comes along there is at least one all-out, full-scale dog/cat chase! But I think things are improving! I choose to remain optomistic! Today the two have actually had a few calm moments in each others' presence! They've sniffed each other - they've sized each other up - they've carefully watched each other (Edison usually staring down at Riley from the top of the kitchen table!). But of course, peace is short-lived when Riley decides to suddenly run after poor Edison (though I'm fairly convinced that Edison could totally take my dog if it came to that! lol!)!
It's pretty funny to watch - but don't worry, no animals have been hurt in the process! Riley just thinks that Edison is a pal and wants to play. Edison thinks that Riley is completely annoying! I think it's going to take a while for these two to become friends (if it ever truly happens at all)!
So for the moment I can sit in total quiet and peace! The cat is outside, the dog is chewing on a toy. We shall have to see how long this lasts! :)

Pro-Life

2011-09-28T06:09:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to share this link! This is really good - definitely worth the watch!
http://www.180movie.com/

Hope you get a chance to take a look at it!

Yes, I am really still here!

2011-09-08T09:05:00.002-05:00

Ok, so trying to ignore how inexcusably long it has been since I last blogged, I shall attempt to jump back into this!

I am enjoying having my sister here for a visit! It's been a bit wet and chilly for her time here thus far, but hey, this is Sweden after all! :)

I love fall in Sweden! Some days it's sunny, lots of days it's rainy - but I love the cool, crisp air and the blowing leaves!

Today Riley and I were playing in the puddles when we were out for a walk in the rain! I had forgotten how much fun it can be! It's amazing how more willing you are to play in the water when fully armed with rain coat and rain boots! :) Ahh, simple joys of life!

Things are going well here in Sweden! I'm plugging away with the studies and it seems to be going pretty well! The class I'm in now goes until the beginning of December and then I can start the next (and final) class in January. It will be so nice to be done with language school!

We started our ladies' Bible study several weeks back. We meet at my place every other Tuesday night. It's a great time of Bible study and fellowship! And it's been really good for me as I've done the lessons all in Swedish! That's a huge answer to prayer! I was so scared for that first Bible study - but God certainly helped me. And the ladies are a huge encouragement to me!
This past Tuesday was exciting as we had both English speaking/Swedish speaking folks - so one of the other girls translated for me! It's so exciting having visitors!

Riley continues to be a great pal! He is so good with the kids around here - and he just enjoys exploring the world around him! We love to go on long walks in the woods together!
I have to take him to the vet tomorrow, though. I think the poor little guy has an ear infection. Poor little guy! :(

Meet Riley!

2011-07-11T08:12:00.003-05:00

I love the summers here in Sweden! Sunny days, rainy days it doesn't matter to me! We've had a few really warm days, but things seem to always cool off at night! And I love the daylight late into the night! I gotta enjoy it now, because come winter there really won't be any daylight! :) But it is nice taking my puppy outside at 11 or 11:30 at night with it not being really dark out!

O, yes - some big news! I have a new puppy! I got him about a month ago! (Yes, I know - should have updated this thing a long time ago! But if you're friends with me on Facebook, you probably already knew I got the puppy!)

His name is Riley and he just turned 4 months old! He's a Cocker Spaniel/Cavalier Spaniel mix - and super sweet! He has really helped me get to know neighbors around here - and their dogs! But he really is a wonderful little buddy! And always keeping me on my toes!

Things in Sweden kind of slow down in the summer - especially in July. So many people are away on their vacations! Church attendance has been lower because of that - but fellowship has still be sweet! God is really opening up doors for ministry here in Jönköping!

I'm also off of school for the month of July - but that doesn't mean the studying stops! I just finished reading my first John Grisham novel in Swedish - Det Målade Huset (The Painted House). It was a good challenge for me - over 400 pages of Swedish! But it really wasn't hard to read/understand -and I did pick up some new vocabulary from it!

I also get lots of Swedish practice when I'm out with Riley! I'm able to practice my Swedish quite a bit! And all the kids around here love Riley! So I get to spend time hanging out with them too! They help me when I'm stuck with a word! :)

I'm hoping to do some Bible story times out in the yard for the kids around here - maybe at the end of July! It would be kind of a mini-Bible club! Please pray for this possibility!

Some of us church ladies are also getting ready to start a Bible study together! Just waiting for vacations to end - so people are around! :)

I'm also working on a lot of music stuff this month! I have a lot to accomplish in the next month/a half! My sister is coming at the beginning of September, and I have to finish about 6 or 7 songs for her to sing when she gets here! We want to work on another recording while she's visiting!

Well, that's about it for now! Have a great day!

Stockholm!

2011-05-30T11:59:00.006-05:00

I just realized it's been a month since I last posted! Crazy how time flies! My apologies! :)

I'm in Stockholm right now - been here for the last 10 days or so! It's been a great trip! I came to stay with the kids of friends who have been in the States for a wedding! I've been having fun with them, working on writing some music, studying a little bit of Swedish, seeing the city sites, etc!

The timing for this trip was good! Just before I left, I passed my last test with sfi (language school)! Lord willing, once I get back to Jönköping I will be starting the next school! So I was ready for a little bit of a break in between schools :)

I've been enjoying the big city, but I must admit that I miss my much smaller Jönköping! I was a little nervous about getting all around on my own here in Stockholm at first, but it really is pretty simple! I've had a transportation card, so I've able to take busses, trains, trolleys, ferries, and the subway! It's been really fun! And as long as I have my map with me, it's all good! :)

This coming weekend is church camp! I'm really excited about it - it's my first one with the church in Jönköping! Should be lots of fun! Please pray for a great time of fellowship and study in God's Word!

Spring in Sweden

2011-04-25T14:29:00.008-05:00

Here are just a few pictures of spring in Sweden! I'll try to post some more later! :)

I also want to praise the Lord for a wonderful Resurrection Sunday service! I'm so thankful for my salvation!

And I'm so thankful that God has placed me here in Sweden! What a privilege to serve Him here!

Easter Sunday also held a couple of "firsts!" It was the first Sunday for our small "choir" to sing in church! We did "Christ the Lord is Risen Today" (in Swedish).

It was also my first Sunday for teaching Sunday School - in Swedish! I loved having the opportunity! I was a little nervous at first, but the kids were great! They listened well - and understood what I said! :) They also helped with the pictures on the flannel graph! (Another big thanks to my home church ladies missionary group who provided the flannel graph set! It's so wonderful to be able to put it to use!) We had a great time going through the resurrection story together! Also got to put to use some balloons - and a handmade spinner game (a wonderful gift from a church in WY)!

Well, I must go for now! I probably should get some sleep since I go back to school tomorrow! I hope you all had a blessed Easter! Have a great week!

The Shadow of the Cross

2011-04-04T10:43:00.000-05:00

Song: "Shadow of the Cross" I wrote this just over a year or so ago and thought I would make a video with it since Easter is coming up! My sister is the one singing! Praise the Lord for the salvation He offers so full and free!

Quick howdie!

2011-03-10T13:23:00.003-06:00

Just a quick hello! Things are going well - though my brain is so tired :) The joys of language immersion! But I'm loving it! I love being able to see progress - to be able to actually communicate conversations all in Swedish!

My apartment is looking more and more like home! My sofa came yesterday, so that certainly helped in the living room! :) My apartment is so cozy and comfortable - I am truly blessed!

The weather has been very "spring-like" - at least in the sense that it can't decide if it wants to rain or snow - or just let the sun shine!

Well, just a short update for now! I have to finish up some homework for tomorrow!

Jönköping update

2011-02-14T06:10:00.003-06:00

It has been positively ages since I last posted something! I'm super sorry about that!
But on the positive side, I now actually have my own internet access again! One of the positive things about finally having my person number in Sweden! :)
The last few weeks have gone by so quickly it's really hard to believe! So much has been going on - lots of learning and adjusting!
I'm really enjoying my time with my church family here! It has been so great to be able to jump into ministry with them! I love being able to play the piano every week for church! And Saturday morning outreach is just such a great time and opportunity!
We have a Bible study at the church every other Friday night. They're going through the book of Revelations right now. Let's just say that it's complicated to listen to discussions on the end times in Swedish! But I'm learning - and enjoying every experience! What better way to learn the language than in church and through God's Word? :)
I've also enjoyed being with my friends here! I have such great friends that this time of transition hasn't felt quite so scary or difficult! They are such a blessing and help to me! I'm so blessed to be able to be here with them!
I've also enjoyed getting into my new apartment! It's my first one on my own, and it's been really exciting! I got most of my furniture from Ikea (such a wonderful place - great deals!)! And I had good help getting things put together! My friends' son (about 6 years old) helped me a lot! He was a great helper - and he was so excited about building things! He kept saying, "this is so fun!" (only in Swedish) over and over again! He also likes my new vacuum, so anytime he comes over he goes straight for it and asks me if he can vacuum! Super cute!
I haven't officially moved in there yet, though. I'm waiting for the rest of my stuff to come off the boat! It should actually get into port today and then get sent to the warehouse in Göteborg. I should, Lord willing, be able to go get it on Thursday. We shall see what happens! Flexibility is the key! :)
But in the meantime, I'm enjoying staying with my friends! It will actually be sad "moving" out of here! But they live pretty close! It's about a 30-40 minute walk from my apartment to their house (depending on how icy/snowy it is!).
The weather hasn't been too bad. Some days it's nice outside - others cold - and others snowy! But it's not really any different from what I'm used to from WI! I love walking outside in the snow especially! It's so pretty! And you walk all the time here! You walk to bus stops, to school, to the stores, all over downtown, etc! It's great! And if your hat and mittens get all wet, you just drop them off on the radiator and they dry in no time! :)
When I first got here, I had to apply for a Swedish person number, much like an American Social Security Number. You really can't do anything in this country without it! So for a couple of weeks I was basically a nobody :) But now it came! And since then I've been able to get a phone, internet access, a bank account, etc! Praise the Lord! It's good to be a "somebody" again!
Well, that's about all I have for now! I know there will be much more to say as time goes on! I shall do my best to keep you updated!
Thanks a million for all your prayers and support!
I just can't stop rejoicing in what God has done thus far - and I'm so excited to see what He will continue to do in the future here in Jönköping!

Home in Jönköping!

2011-01-20T07:12:00.002-06:00

Almost forgot to let you all know that I made it safely to Sweden on Monday! I had good flights - and I praise the Lord for that!
I am jumping right in to things here in Jönköping! Yesterday I went downtown to register for a personnummer (sort of like the Swedish equivalent of a social security number) - that´s really important, as I need it in order to really do a whole lot of anything!
I´ve also enjoyed several fikas (coffee breaks) since I got here! Yesterday I met a friend after she finished school and we had tea at a great coffee shop downtown - it was fun spending time with her!
I´m currently staying with a friend, but I should be able to get into my apartment on February 1st! I´m really excited!
There´s so much to learn and do - but I´m excited and ready for the challenge!

Thanks so much for your prayers! I´ll do my best to keep you all posted on stuff here in Sweden!

Moving Forward!

2011-01-04T09:18:00.004-06:00

12 more days til I leave for Sweden! Praise the Lord!

My commissioning service was this past Sunday night! It was such an encouragement! My dad got to preach - and that was really very special! All together, it was a special night!

The video I've attached is a conglomeration of pictures from my deputation and Sweden trips. The pictures played while my sister sang the song. I just thought I'd share!

Thanks so much for your continued prayers! I'll keep you posted!

Support Increase!

2010-12-13T10:09:00.003-06:00

Praise the Lord for all His goodness and blessing!

I'm still looking ahead to a mid-January departure. I'm just waiting and praying that my support level will continue to increase!

As of this morning, I am now up to 85.1%! Praise the Lord for that :) I have also heard from a couple more that they are praying about being able to join the support team! God is certainly at work!

I hope you all have a blessed day!
Stay warm! And enjoy the snow for those of you who got a bunch! We sure did - it's so beautiful! :)

Visa approved!

2010-11-24T11:24:00.002-06:00

Huge answer to prayer! My visa application has been approved! I have been granted a 2-year visa beginning January 17th!
Praise the Lord!

Thanks so much for all of your prayers!
Now we just have to pray in the last little bit of support!

I have SO much extra to be thankful for this Thanksgiving!

Please Pray!

2010-11-15T20:29:00.003-06:00

Please pray! I just turned in (online) my application for a work/residence permit for Sweden! Please pray that the process will go smoothly and that I'll soon be granted permission to move to Sweden!
May the Lord be glorified! It's all in His hands!

Thank you!

"All the Way My Savior Leads Me"

2010-11-07T23:55:00.003-06:00

"Jesus led me all the way." These were the last words sung before I got up to give my testimony tonight at church in Sheridan, WY, and they had me suddenly a bit choked up. See, tonight was my last scheduled meeting on deputation - my last presentation - and the truth behind the song really grabbed me. Looking back on the past 3 1/2 plus years of traveling, and the years leading up to it, I can truly say that Jesus has led me all the way! What a blessing it is to know that God is leading in my life - every step, through good times and bad, over mountains and through the valleys. God is always with me. I can trust Him with my life - every aspect! Praise God for His faithful direction!
Jesus has led me all the way - and I know He will continue to lead me in the days ahead!

More Stuff!

2010-10-27T13:43:00.012-05:00

It's beginning to feel a lot like winter! Now this is what I expected in WY at the end of October - wind, snow, sleet! I actually broke out my winter coat this morning when I a new friend and I headed out to go hike at Devil's Tower (the first National Monument)! Winter coat, mittens, hat! I actually do like this time of year! And we enjoyed our hike even if it was mighty blustery and the paths were ocassionally slippery with snow and ice!

Yesterday we went into the Black Hills (some snow there too!) and had breakfast kinda of near the Mt. Rushmore area. We also drove through Custer State Park - which was amazing! I never get tired of the scenery out this way!

I've been enjoying my time here in Upton, WY! I've made some good friends and have been able to get involved in different things! On Monday afternoon I got to help with the afternoon "Joy Club." Kids come after school for songs, verses, and a lesson. I had a great time with that!

Tonight is Prayer meeting/Youth group. I look forward to that as well!

Tomorrow, Lord willing, I'll be heading down to Douglas, WY. I'm scheduled in the church there for this coming Sunday. Pray for a good service and for good weather! Then Monday, weather permitting, I plan on heading into SD to stay with friends for a week.

Here are some pics from the last couple of days!

Wyoming Splendor!

2010-10-24T23:45:00.011-05:00

Ok, here's some more pics from my trip in the Northwest! O, and in case you were wondering about the pics in the previous blog, they were from my trip in Salt Lake City, UT. I put photos on there from Antelope Island State Park (in the Great Salt Lake), Ensign Peak Trail (overlooking Salt Lake City), and Temple Square/downtown.

These new pics are some from Yellowstone National Park, Teton National Park, the Big Horn Mountains, etc. I had a great time traveling through these areas! And I even got to see a bear - from a safe distance of course! That was pretty cool! :)

My trip west has been simply wonderful! I've seen so many beautiful things - I simply stand in awe of the artistry/detail of God's creation! And I've also made some very dear friends along the way! I am truly blessed indeed! God has been so good and gracious!

"Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee. How great Thou art!"

Pics from my visit in Salt Lake City

2010-10-19T20:47:00.012-05:00

Wyoming

2010-10-16T17:49:00.003-05:00

My apologies for not having an update in a while! This past week has been so busy - but so amazing!
I left WI a week ago today and headed out to Cheyenne, WY (with a stop off in Omaha, NE on the way)! I was able to participate in a mission's conference this past week at Faith Baptist Church there in town. It was great week! I was able to really get involved in a lot, and I enjoyed it all! I feel so blessed to be able to make so many new friends!
I was also privileged to share my testimony at a truck stop on Thursday night! A couple from the church there are missionaries to the truckers! What a great mission field! They have a little double wide trailer set up at Sapp Bros. Truck Stop outsided of Cheyenne on I-80. They have Bible studies on Thursday nights and a service on Sunday mornings. So if you're a trucker and ever out that way, you should definitely stop in!
Then I was also able to share a little with the teens at youth group on Friday night! That was also a great opportunity!
Praise the Lord for these opportunites for service!

The weather has been so wonderful thus far - which is a major blessing considering I'm in WY in the middle of October! No jacket for me today! It was sunny and warm-ish (maybe around mid-60's)!
I just keep praying the really bad weather will hold off for a couple of weeks! But I'm just taking it one day at a time :)
If the weather is still good later this week, I'm going to try to get up into Yellowstone National Park some! I've never been there, so I hope it all works out!

Thanks for those of you who are so faithfully praying for me! You are much appreciated! Thanks for your ministry!

Home

2010-10-03T14:09:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I made it home safely to Wisconsin! Thanks for your prayers!

This past month was truly wonderful! God really blessed! I'm looking forward to getting back to Sweden, Lord willing, in January!

Some pics from my trip

2010-09-14T08:36:00.006-05:00

More from Jönköping

2010-09-13T14:27:00.003-05:00

My, so much to say I almost don´t know where to begin!

My stay in Jönköping continues to go really well! I have been working really hard at the language and am picking up more and more Swedish every day! Yesterday I even went 2 hours without speaking any English - only Swedish! I did the same today for a while as well - it´s such good practice and really helps me learn!
I also was able to go to language school a few times last week! I love being able to sit in the classes! Lots of good practice - and homework! This week I will, Lord willing, be going to class Wednesday morning for 4 hours and Thursday afternoon into evening for 7 hours. I´m looking forward to the classes!

I have also been working hard at getting to know my way around! I´m getting more and more comfortable with the buses :) This is very encouraging! They are a lot less intimidating now! I can get from my friends house into town and back very easily now - no getting lost in far off no-man´s-land! Today I even explored around the downtown area a lot more - took a couple of other buses around, found out what bus stop is good to get off at for church, etc.

I have also very much enjoyed the fellowship with the church family here! They are all so very dear to me and I count it a privilege to call them my friends! I so look forward to serving here with them full time!
I have also enjoyed being involved with the music in the church while I´ve been here. Thanks to the kind gifts of several churches, we were able to purchase a portable keyboard to be used in the Sunday service! It has been such a blessing to be able to use that - along with the guitars - in the services! It´s just like a mini-orchestra! And it has been fun hearing the old hymns in the Swedish language - you get a whole new look at them! And I love the hymns of Lina Sandell, who was Swedish! (Day by Day, Children of the Heavenly Father, etc)

I´ve also enjoyed spending time with my friend´s boys! I´ve watched them for her several nights and it´s fun being able to practice my Swedish with them! They are so patient with me, and they help me learn more and more! It certainly is interesting, though! It can really be a challenge to watch them when you can´t speak with them very well - and we´ve certainly had some adventures! :D It´s been fun!

I´ve also made some other friends as well! There is a couple who own a little juice/smoothie shop in the area mall. The husband is from MN originally and he married a Swede. I´ve met both of them and they are very kind! I´ve gone back a few times and they remember me every time (probably my bad Swedish!!!). It has been nice talking some with them!
I´ve also met a few new friends in language school. It´s really fun to meet and visit with new people - and in language school there are people from all over the world! It´s pretty exciting!

Well, that´s about all for now! There is just too much to tell! It has been such a truly wonderful time!
I just keep praising God for this great opportunity! I love it here - I love the Swedish people - and I can´t wait to be here again! Lord willing, that will be in January! Please keep praying!
I´ll post more later!

Jönköping

2010-09-02T09:51:00.002-05:00

Well, I´ve been in Sweden for several days now, so I thought I should get another update out!

My train trip to Jönköping went well - for the most part! I didn´t have any trouble switching trains, but shortly after the second switch the train sort of stopped on the tracks and an announcement played over the speakers. I didn´t really understand it since it was all in Swedish, so I asked the lady in front of me what had been said. She said there was a problem on the tracks ahead or something like that and that we would be stopping in a town nearby and switching over to buses to get us the rest of the way to Jönköping. So we stopped in the town of Habo and got off. I almost left my computer on the train! Praise the Lord for helping me remember to get it! That would have been bad!
I got on the bus and rode it into Jönköping. Thankfully, the bus station is right next to the train station, so I went over there to wait for my ride. I was a little over half an hour late, but it could have been a lot worse!

I´ve enjoyed my time in Jönköping thus far! I´m staying with a friend, and it has been so good being able to spend time with her and her kids again!

I got to help chop wood yesterday morning. Lotta and I went to help Ron Neely at his farm. They´re getting wood ready for winter. It was my first time to chop wood and I really enjoyed it! I like to swing the ax and watch the wood split! Very cool!
I also watched Lotta´s boys yesterday afternoon after they got back from school. That was fun - but certainly a challenge! It´s a lot harder to babysit when you don´t know their language very much! But it was lots of good practice for me and it worked out fine!
The boys asked if we could walk down to the store and get a pizza for supper, and I was just so happy I could understand him that I said yes! So we went to the store - I walked, the boys biked! We got pizza - and ice cream! and headed back. Then I had to figure out the oven - more fun! Celsius and Fahrenheit are definitely different!
When the pizza was ready a couple of the boys´ friends came to the door. So I let them come in for pizza - it was a regular party!
And of course in the middle of it all a kid came to the door selling stuff out of a magazine. More Swedish practice!
After all that, Ron Neely came and picked us all up to go to prayer meeting last night!

Prayer meeting was great! It was nice to see more of my friends again! I feel so blessed to be able to be here with them this month! And I really enjoyed the prayer time - most prayed in Swedish, a couple (including myself) prayed in English. But I loved to listen to the prayers! I loved to hear what God is doing here - what God is doing in and through people. I´m so excited to be able to be a part of this ministry!

Today I decided to be brave and take the bus into town :) I made it to A6, the mall where my friend works. It also has a place to buy bus cards.
So I got a monthly card, which means I can use the bus as much as I want for the next month without having to pay in cash every time I get on the bus. I just scan my card. That should make it easier for me to learn my way around! But it is definitely going to take some practice! It´s such a foreign system to me since I´ve always lived in small towns and never really took buses. But I´m ready to learn! So I´ll just keep at it!
I was just thankful to make it back to my friends´ house! That was the bus trip I got so lost on last year! Thankfully I made it this time - without ending up in the middle of nowhere! I think I have that part figured out now! So that´s encouraging :)

Well, that´s really all for now! I´ll have more later - and I´ll try to get some pics taken and posted as well!

Have a great day - thanks for your prayers!

Sweden...here I am!

2010-08-30T08:42:00.002-05:00

Just a quick note to say that I made it safely to Sweden! I got into Stockholm at about 7:30am this morning (Monday) Sweden time. I'm staying with friends in the area tonight before taking a train out to Jönköping tomorrow afternoon.

I'm liking the cooler weather!!!! After such a hot summer, 50/60 degrees is soooo wonderful. Sure, it may be raining, but that's no big deal. I just love the refreshing change - just like fall! I'm all for jacket/sweatshirt weather :)

Sweden...here I come!

2010-08-27T21:57:00.003-05:00

Just a quick note...

Less than 2 days til I get to head to Sweden again :) I'm really excited! Please pray that the flight will be on time Sunday afternoon and that all will go smoothly! Also, please pray for good opportunities for me to learn lots this next month and that I will be able to be a help to the Neelys there!

Sweden Trip...9 days and counting :)

2010-08-20T10:44:00.003-05:00

I apologize for my lack of faithfulness in blogging as of late! Things have been so crazy busy that I just haven't taken the time to get on here and write stuff!

I have been home now for a couple of weeks. It really has been nice to be back - nice to be with family, nice to catch up on stuff at home :)
I've gotten a lot done. I finally finished the novel I've been writing since I started deputation! Don't know how good it is, but at least the first draft is now complete! I have some family/friends reading it for me, then I'll work on editing and fixing it up. You never know, maybe someday I can get it published. We'll see!
I've also gotten a lot of work done on sorting, organizing and packing! I'm praying about moving to Sweden in January, so I figured I should get a jump on going through stuff.
I've also been working on some more music writing projects. I've gotten one song completely finished and another about half way done. It takes time, that's for sure! But it's SOOOO nice to be back with my piano again! Anyway, I've got lots more to accomplish before I head out to Sweden in 9 days!!!!!
This coming Wednesday I will, Lord willing, be down in MO for a meeting. Then a week from this coming Sunday night, I'll be heading to Chicago to fly to Stockholm. I'll be meeting up with friends there Monday morning and will be taking the train to Jönköping that Tuesday afternoon.
I got an amazing deal on a train ticket, so that's exciting! But I do have to switch trains twice - in two cities I've never been :) Should be exciting! Pray I don't get lost or stuck somewhere!
I'm so excited about this trip to Sweden! I'll be there a month - so I'll have lots of opportunities to further work on my Swedish :) I'll also be trying to get some visa stuff worked on while there, and I will also be helping out in the ministry as best I can! Please pray for safety and for good ministry opportunies!
I will certainly try to do better at keeping you all posted - especially once I get to Sweden! Thanks for your prayers!
And please, if any of you have any prayer requests, please let me know how I can pray for you as well!

Weddings, Meetings, Camp, Conference

2010-07-29T11:15:00.011-05:00

Wow! The last couple weeks have truly flown by!

I had a great trip up into MN and SD - got to see two of my friends get married :) Both had gorgeous weddings!

I also spent a week with my friends in SD - got to see their new baby :) While there, I had a meeting up that way in Huron, SD. That went really well!

That next week I caravaned with a couple of church groups out to the wilderness near Four Corners, WY for a week of teen camp at Black Hills Baptist Camp. I had a great time out there! I had such fun with the campers! Huge blessing: I got to lead one of my campers to Christ! Praise the Lord for that opportunity! It's so thrilling to see God work!

From there I traveled down to St. Robert, MO, where I am currently involved in a mission's conference. It has been a wonderful week so far - I thank God for these ministry opportunities! The conference finishes up on Friday and I'll be heading toward home, Lord willing, Saturday morning. I will be stopping by my grandparents' house on the way home, and visiting a supporting church for this coming Sunday. Please pray for safety in traveling.

I am looking forward to a couple of weeks at home! I have a lot to accomplish before my trip to Sweden in September!

Well, that's all for now! Thanks always for your prayers - have a great day!

NC, VA, WI

2010-07-09T16:18:00.002-05:00

My apologies for not blogging in a while! It has been a whirlwind past couple of weeks!
So much has happened, so I'll just try to give a quick summary!

I had a great week in New Bern, NC with the World Wide family! I made some new friends, renewed some old friendships, and had a wonderful week! The meetings were so encouraging and challenging - I'm so glad I was able to be there!

After that week, I headed up to Norfolk, VA to spend time with my brother and sister-in-law. It was such a relaxing week - a much needed vacation :) We were able to do a lot - biking in the Great Dismal Swamp, almost daily walks to the Chesapeake Bay (I even touched a jellyfish! but it was dead - and I didn't get stung! It was pretty cool!), biking in Williamsburg, biking on the boardwalk at Virginia Beach, etc. We were even able to spend 4th of July in Washington D.C.!!! That was a super neat opportunity! The crowds were beyond immense, but the experience was totally worth it!
I left for home on July 5th (I didn't leave until 2pm b/c I slept til 11am - didn't get back from D.C. until 3:45am Monday). I made it to Toledo, OH by 2 am and stopped to get some sleep. I made it the rest of the way to WI by late afternoon on Tuesday. It was a long trip - and I was ready to be done traveling for a few days!

I've enjoyed being home - however briefly. It was nice to be in my home church on Wed. night! And it's always great to see family!
I am leaving tomorrow early morning, Lord willing, to head up to the Minneapolis area for a friend's wedding. From there I will be driving the rest of the way to SD where I have a meeting Sunday night.
Please pray that I will be well rested and that the trip would go safely! Thanks!

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Stay cool :)

New Bern, NC

2010-06-22T14:44:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I made it safely to New Bern, NC yesterday afternoon! I ended up leaving at 3 am from Murfreesboro, TN and made it to the church here by around 4:40pm. It was a long day, but thankfully I never got too overly tired. I did stop frequently to stretch my legs and get some fresh air - to wake me up a bit!
I did see a gorgeous sunrise, though! Mountains, a rising sun, and a wisp of fog = beautiful sunrise :) Wish I had a picture, but I didn't think I should stop on the interstate to take it!
The conference here has gone well thus far! I'm having a great time! What a blessing it is to be here!
Now I may try to catch a quick nap before dinner! I'm running on very little sleep from this busy weekend of travel, visiting, and meetings! My eyes are begging for sleep :)

Stuff

2010-06-19T15:13:00.002-05:00

Well, it has been an interesting past week! It started with a little car drama :) I took it in last Friday to a brake place b/c my brake light had come on in the car. I just wanted to get it checked out before my trip to MO the next day. Well, the guy there looked it over and told me that my brake line was rusting out - that there was a big leak and that it was likely that my brake line could break at any time. Not a good thing.
I ended up deciding to rent a car for the week, rather than risk driving the 7 hours up to MO with it the next day. I left my car with my Uncle down here in AR and he was going to try to get it to a neighbor or someone to fix it while I was gone.
So, I call on Monday to check on my car's status, and I find out that there's nothing wrong with my car! The brake lines are all in good condition - no leaks!
Apparently, the mechanic I had talked to on Friday was out to con me. I didn't need any break work done.
At least I know things are ok - and I didn't have to pay to have the repairs done! Praise the Lord for that!
And I will say, I really enjoyed driving the rental car :) It was quite a bit nicer than my car (but don't tell my car I said that!) and real smooth to drive. But I'm glad to back to my car. I missed it :)
Never a dull moment!

Also, please pray for me as I will be heading out tomorrow. Ultimately I'm heading to New Bern, NC, but I'm going as far as Murfreesboro, TN tomorrow. I'll be staying with family at the Bill Rice Ranch before driving the rest of the way on Monday. Monday will be the bigger travel day, and I'll have to leave by 4am in order to get where I need to be on time! Pray that I don't get too tired!
I'll be spending this next week then, Lord willing, at my mission board's Family Fellowship Week conference. I'm looking forward to it! It's always nice to see friends again :)
From there, I plan to head up to Norfolk, VA to visit my brother and sister-in-law. I'm super excited to see them again!

Well, that's all the news for now! Have a great day - and keep cool! (esp. if you are in this crazy 100+ degree weather with who-knows-what heat index! I'm not a huge fan of all this extreme heat and humidity! I can't wait to get to Sweden!)

Update

2010-06-10T15:20:00.011-05:00

My summer is going well! I've had good meetings, and have gotten to visit some wonderful churches!

I will be heading up to MO this weekend, Lord willing, with meetings scheduled for both Sunday and Wednesday in the state. After that, I will have only a few short days left here in AR before heading east to NC for my mission board conference in New Bern. The time has just gone by so fast; it's hard to believe! I will certainly miss being with family down here, but I look forward to the opportunities ahead.

Pics: Just some stuff from my travels :)

Me and my cousin playing "Sweet Hour of Prayer" on violin/soprano sax: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Fs8_IFQ7UM

Support Increase!

2010-05-27T19:10:00.002-05:00

I just enjoyed watching a nice big thunder/rain storm wash through this area! It was pretty neat! I actually find storms to be really relaxing - as long as they don't turn into tornados, that is!

Anyway, just wanted to let you all know that I am now up to 74% of my support! Just found out! Praise the Lord! Just over 25% to go!!!!!!!!!!!! Sweden is getting closer all the time :)

God's Grace is Sufficient

2010-05-18T20:13:00.005-05:00

Just wanted to share a song with you all! My grandparents here in AR are part of a senior choir called the "Morning Glories." They sang at a nursing home yesterday and this song was just a real encouragement to me. God's grace IS sufficient!

Also, there was a man at the home who was present when Eugene Monroe Bartlett first introduced the hymn "Victory in Jesus." It was neat to hear his story!

Arkansas Update

2010-05-10T12:00:00.003-05:00

Just a quick update!

I'm in Arkansas right now - spending time with grandparents. My travels have been going well!

I didn't have any meetings this past weekend, but Lord willing, I'll be heading up to MO for a meeting this coming Sunday! It's supposed to be raining and storming all weekend, so please pray for safe travels!

I've enjoyed being able to spend time with family down here! I even was able to go to the Arkansas symphony with my uncle and cousin :) That was a special night!

Also, I'm looking into planning a trip to Sweden for the month of September! It will be a further chance for me to work on the language more intensively, to better learn my way around the area there in Jönköping, and to get involved in the ministry in whatever way I can. Please be in prayer as I work on the details for the trip. I'm definitely excited about it!

I'm including some pics - some from my time in KS with friends, and some from here in AR.

WI, MN, IL, MO, KS, and AR

2010-04-29T20:54:00.002-05:00

Ok, so it's been too long since I last posted something - my apologies!

The last few weeks have simply flown by! Between back and forth trips into MN for weekend meetings, trips into Madison to the Red Cross, music arranging projects, meetings with friends, phone calls and the like, and then a trip south to IL, MO, and now KS, things have been keeping me plenty busy! But that's a good thing :)

I've had wonderful meetings, have met some wonderful new friends, and have also enjoyed time with my wonderful family and friends!

Travels have gone well - some bad weather, but nothing major! Mostly just rain! In fact, I missed the worst of some storms passing through the midwest just last week while heading down to the St. Louis area. As soon as I got to where I was headed, the storm sirens in the area went off - praise God for good timing :) Watching the radar on the weather, the worst of the storms passed over right where I had been driving -after I had driven it! I'm very thankful for that!

I'm in KS right now with some friends! It's been fun to see them again! I'll be presenting my ministry to Sweden at their church this coming Sunday.
The weather has been so beautiful the last few days! Sunny, warm - very springlike :) I love it! It's nice to be able to walk outside in the sunshine! Praise God for these wonderful blessings we so often take for granted!

Lord willing, I'll be heading down to my grandpa's place in AR this coming Tuesday. I'm going to be spending some time with family down there while traveling to churches in the relative area. I'm certainly looking forward to being able to see them all!

Well, I must be going for now! Will write more later!

Have a great night!

Back in WI

2010-04-07T11:22:00.004-05:00

Thought I should let you all know that I did make it home safely from SD! My trip last week Tuesday went really well - it was a long driving day (10+ hours), but I was never really tired. And the weather was beautiful :) I love spring!

My sister had the day off last Wednesday, so we went hiking for a few hours at a state park north of here. It was 80's and sunny with a cool breeze - perfect hiking weather! It was nice to be outside!

I was able to be in my home church for Easter Sunday! It was good to be able to be there and see folks again!
I will be home for another couple of weeks - with a couple of trips into MN on the weekends for meetings. I have a lot to get done before heading out again toward the end of the month. From here I'll be driving down to MO, KS, and AR for some meetings end of April-June. Then I'll be driving out to NC for a conference with my mission board, and from there on to my brother's place in VA. I should be home again, Lord willing, in July - at least for a few days!

Please pray specifically as I'm trying to get some meetings lined up for this fall. That's probably my biggest need right now.

Well, that's all for now! Have a great day!

Increased Support!

2010-03-25T23:14:00.005-05:00

Just wanted to report an increase in support! I'm now up to 67.5%! Praise the Lord for His further provision!

My SD trip has been wonderful - and sadly it's reaching an end. I have one more meeting this coming Sunday before heading back to WI on Tuesday. Please pray for safety in traveling - it will probably be a 10 1/2 hour drive that day!

Also wanted to share some pics with you all. I was out in Rapid City this past weekend - my friend and I drove out together :) I was at her brother/sis-in-law's church! Anyway, we drove some through the Badlands - very neat!

I also am adding a couple of flood pics.

Have a great day!

More SD stuff!

2010-03-09T14:45:00.010-06:00

I'm still in SD - and I really do love it here!

Right now, as I look out the window, it's raining - kinda seems like spring (except that you never know what will happen next out here!). I can even see a few spots of grass! It's kind of nice! And I haven't had to wear my winter coat in a little while (temps been in the upper 30's/lower 40's mostly)!

Last week I took a trip out to the Black Hills of Western SD - boy, did I love that! I had meetings in Custer and Box Elder - and stayed with friends in between. I got to see Mt. Rushmore for the first time! The couple I was staying with took me up there for breakfast :) It was such a fun, special day! I learned a lot - and the weather was gorgeous! It was sunny and warm-ish - the sky was so blue! And I just love the smell of Ponderosa Pines! Great memories!

During my trip westward, I also visited the Pactola Reservoir for some hiking and fresh air, and on Wednesday I even got to have a picnic at Canyon Lake Park in Rapid City (with food from my favorite restaurant - Subway!). It was nice to have a few days of "spring!" Even got to 50 degrees one day!

On my way back to the east side of the state, I stopped in at world famous Wall Drug for one of their homemade donuts - good stuff! I think I may have to stop again the next time I'm headed to Rapid City!

My meetings out in the west side went so well! I had such a nice time with the folks there! That Sunday in Custer was extra special as Evangelist Glen Jaspers and his wife were also there! Brother Jaspers preached in all the services - what a blessing and encouragement that was! Then Wednesday night was a little interesting as the fog rolled in and became so thick I couldn't see anything on either side of the road (let alone in front or behind me!). I know it was God who got me to the church, because I sure couldn't see to find it! And despite the fog, folks came out to the service - it was a wonderful night! Such sweet fellowship!

This past weekend I was down in White for Sunday morning and afternoon services (no snow storms this time! no cancellations!) and then in Elkton for the evening service! It was a full day - but one loaded with blessings!

I'm slowly nearing the end of my trip here in SD. I have 3 more Sundays - and 3 more meetings planned! I'll be in Mitchell this coming Sunday, Lord willing. Then I'll be west one more time for a meeting in Rapid City. Then my last meeting is in Tulare at my friends' church!

This week I'm just trying to get a lot of projects done! I'm also hoping to get a few more songs wrapped up!

I also get to attend my friends' church's revival meetings this week! Jim Cook is the speaker - I always enjoy hearing him preach! He always came and preached when I worked at camp out west in AZ (West Branch).

Well, that's all for now! Hope you have a great day serving the Lord!

Deputation Journeys

2010-02-25T14:40:00.002-06:00

Music from West Coast Baptist College ("God Will Provide" and "Faithful")

Sweden Trip 2009

2010-02-25T14:15:00.003-06:00

Music: "The Master's Call" (from the cd "Go and Tell")

More from SD!

2010-02-22T15:43:00.007-06:00

Time keeps on flying by! Sorry I haven't posted anything in a while!

My time here in SD has continued to go well! The meetings I've had have gone really well - the fellowship has been wonderful :)

The weather hasn't been too bad- with the exception of a storm a week ago yesterday. I was down in White, SD (an especially appropriate town name this time of year!), but the services were cancelled due to the snow and severe wind. When it's windy out here, it may as well be a blizzard! It causes lots of drifting and it's hard to see when traveling. I was just thankful to be able to travel on that Monday - for a while there the interstate/highways were closed. But once I was able to hit the road, I was able to make it through safely! I was also able to reschedule the meeting for later on in March. Lord willing, the weather will be better this next time around!

In contrast to a week ago, this past weekend was beautiful :) I didn't even wear my coat some of the time - it was at least 30 degrees and sunny :) Heat wave! Good traveling weather!

I've also really enjoyed spending time with my friends here in Redfield! It's been a blessing being able to stay here with them! We've had lots of fun :) And I've still managed to get lots done!

If you think of it, please pray for me this coming weekend as I'll be heading west, Lord willing, to the other side of SD! I have a couple meetings lined up for Sunday as well as Wednesday night. Pray that the weather will be clear and the roads will be good!

Thanks!

Winter in SD

2010-02-10T23:00:00.002-06:00

I have been enjoying my time in SD this winter :) I love the snow - and there certainly is a lot of it! I've had to drive in some snow storms, but thankfully the Lord has brought me safely through them! And praise the Lord my car has been doing really well so far :)

I had a full day this past Sunday as I was in a church in Elkton for the morning/afternoon services and then in Brookings for the evening service. All the services went well - I had a great time with the people in both churches :)
I also realized that I had been to the church in Brookings while on a band tour in college!

On Monday I headed up here to the Aberdeen area. I've been staying with a friend of mine from college - got to give my presentation in her church tonight!
We've had a fun couple of days :) Got to shovel lots of snow! It's been an adventure :) I love it! I love the cold - it's refreshing!

Tomorrow morning, Lord willing, I'll be driving down to another friends house for a couple of days before my next meeting this weekend!

Please keep praying for continued great meetings and safety on the roads/in the weather! I'll try to take some pics to post next time around!

Ministry in Madison, New Support, SD trip

2010-02-04T12:05:00.004-06:00

Please pray for me tomorrow as, Lord willing, I'll be heading out toward SD! I'll be going as far as MN on tomorrow's trip (stopping to see a friend), and then on Saturday I'll be going the rest of the way. Please pray for good weather, good roads, and good car performance :)
I'll be in SD until April - presenting Sweden in 11 different churches during the next 2 months.

Also, thank you to those who were praying for the ministry we've been able to have with the homeless in Madison! A couple of friends and I were able to go over yesterday and hand out lunches on State St./in the Capitol basement. We had a handful of Bibles to give away as well, and we had around 4 different people coming up asking specifically for the Bibles! Praise the Lord! Please pray that souls would be saved!

Also, praise the Lord that I was just contacted by another church who has decided to take me on for support! That puts me up to 62%! Only 38% to go! Please pray that I might be able to get to Sweden by the end of the year!

Well, that's about it for the time being! Have a great day!

Here's what's happening...

2010-01-25T17:05:00.003-06:00

I got home from IL this past Wednesday. I drove much of the trip in an ice storm coming across Iowa/Western IL - couldn't go much faster than 35-40 mph on the interstate for quite a stretch. I was so thankful to get to drier pavement :) I praise the Lord for the safety He granted me on the roads! Thanks to those of you who were praying for me!

On Thursday afternoon, I had the privilege to visit/help in a Good News Club at a public school in Milwaukee. A group from a supporting church of mine is involved there and had invited me to attend. Praise the Lord that at least 3 children came to Christ that afternoon!

I have one more meeting this month before I head out to SD. Lord willing, I will be driving down south of Chicago for a Wednesday evening service.
Also, please be in prayer as a group of my friends and I are planning another trip into Madison to help provide food - physical and spiritual :) - to some of the homeless there.

That about wraps it up for now!
Have a great day!

SGI update

2010-01-08T13:40:00.002-06:00

Thanks for those of you who were praying for me this past week as I was at the SGI conference in MI! I had a wonderful time :)
There were nearly 340 college students/young adults in attendance, and it was nice to be able to catch up with some old friends as well as make some new ones! The preaching sessions, prayer times, and workshops were such a challenge to me! There were speakers from seminaries, churches, and missions fields around the world. It was so wonderful to see so many young people with a passion for world missions!
Your prayers were especially appreciated yesterday as I drove home from Detroit. I spent most of the trip driving through our latest mid-west snowstorm (which was especially bad around Northern Indiana and Chicago). Praise God for safety!

Lord willing, I'll be heading down to Danville, IL tomorrow for a meeting on Sunday. Again, please keep me in your prayers!

Also, please pray for my sister, Sarah. She, along with a small group from my church, left today for a mission's trip in Peru! Please pray for them as they have the opportunity to serve the Lord there!

Hope you have a great day!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-29T13:18:00.002-06:00

Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas! I certainly enjoyed being home with my family!

December has been a fairly slow month for me - as far as meetings go - but I have had plenty to keep me busy!
I have started writing an Easter-type cantata (script/music) - I'm not sure how long that project will take me :) I have also been working on some other music projects.

My sister and I were able to go down to Madison the Saturday afternoon before Christmas and hand out Christmas gift bags/tracts to some of the homeless down on State Street. We met up with my friend Tank and he took us down to the Capitol basement where a lot of the homeless hang out during the day to keep warm. The bags were handed out in no time! It was a blessing to be able to help in some small way.

Lord willing, I'll be hitting the road again this coming Monday. I'll be heading over to the Detroit area for the SGI (Student Global Impact) Conference which is held Monday night through Wednesday night. I went once while I was in college and I'm looking forward to being able to go again now! It is a great and spiritually refreshing way to start the new year!

From there I'll be heading down to my grandparents in IL. I'll stay with them for about a week and a half or so. I have a couple of meetings in IL scheduled for January.

Please pray for safety - pray for the weather to be good! Also, if you think about it, please pray that my new computer comes in by this weekend - my old one basically died on Christmas day!
Never a dull moment!

Pictures to Share

2009-12-11T12:34:00.004-06:00

Well, winter has come to WI in full force! We had a nice snowstorm earlier this week, and now the scenery is beautiful :)

Looks like we may be having a white Christmas!

Here are some recent pics!

2009-12-02T15:35:00.003-06:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! I certainly had a wonderful time down in IL with my family and friends!

I just wanted to let everyone know that my website is now up and running! Feel free to check it out!

sweden4christ.com

Have a great day!

Pictures

2009-11-16T18:56:00.006-06:00

The last couple of weekends have been really great - I spent a week ago up in MN, and yesterday I was right here in WI. Both meetings went well!

Yesterday also wrapped up my fall meeting schedule. Tomorrow I head down to IL to spend a couple of weeks helping my grandparents. I also get to be involved with a supporting church down there! Then, December is a pretty slow month, but I have plenty of ministry projects to keep me busy here at home!

That's about it for news!

I've decided to add some pictures from the past month or so! A couple of the cats (and fish!), and a couple from the trip my sister and I took to Chicago (which was a very wet day!)

Hope you all have a great week!

More from the Midwest

2009-11-03T17:45:00.002-06:00

The last few weeks have gone really well! A week ago Sunday I was over in Rockford, MN for services there. Outside of my presentation, I was also able to really get involved in the music ministry of the church.
From there I went to see my friend in the Minneapolis area. I was able to help her out by participating in both her high school and elementary band programs. It was so fun to be able to spend time with her! I think I spent about 4-5 hours on my saxophone that day :D

This past weekend my sister and I had a "sister weekend" in Chicago. We headed down Thursday morning and stayed with my Aunt and Uncle in the Chicago area for a few days. We spent all day Friday downtown - it was raining, but at least it wasn't too cold! And we still managed to have fun getting soaked (b/c of course my umbrella broke - too much wind!) :D
Then we spent all day Saturday at Six Flags - that was super fun :) We had a great time just spending with each other!

I was able to be in my home church Sunday, and I'm home for the week. Saturday, Lord willing, I'll be heading back over to MN for meetings on Sunday. Then I'll be back in the WI area before hopping down to IL for a few weeks.

I'm also rejoicing in the addition of another supporting church! Praise the Lord for that!
B/c of some necessary support adjustment, however, my support still remains at 63%.
But I now need only 11 more churches or individuals at $100/month in order to make full support! Please pray that this need will be met soon!

Thanks so much for your prayers!
Have a great day!

sunshine!

2009-10-22T09:51:00.003-05:00

After a weekend of rain and a weekend of snow, it was kind of nice to see a weekend of sunshine :) The weather was beautiful for my trip to/from Faith Baptist Church of Hinckley, MN - where I had the opportunity to be part of a mission's emphasis day! I was there along with the Morris family to Bolivia. It was an enjoyable day of services!

I am now home for the rest of the week, and will be heading up to Rockford, MN on Saturday.

Thanks for your continued prayers!

Snow!

2009-10-14T21:47:00.002-05:00

Well, I went from one weekend of rain to another one of snow!
It was snowing some on my way up to the Minneapolis area on Saturday, and it snowed on my way back to WI on Monday morning. In fact, I had about an inch and a half of snow on my car to clear off, and it snowed pretty steadily most of my trip back home. The first snowfall of the season :) Winter is fast approaching!

Anyway, last Friday afternoon I was able to spend a few hours down on State Street in Madison. I got to talk to a few homeless people for a little while - had some good conversations. Please pray as I have opportunity for further contact with one of them!

Services were great on Sunday - had a wonderful time of fellowship with the folks at the church in Oakdale!

Also, I've been working a lot on writing some more songs. Please pray that I'll be able to get them finished up (so I can work on some more!).

Have a great day!

Rainy Weekend

2009-10-06T15:14:00.003-05:00

It has certainly been a very wet weekend! And it definitely feels like fall :)

This past Friday I left around 5:45 am to head up to International Falls, MN (on the Canadian border) for a mission's conference. It's around a 9 hour trip - and it rained for about 7 1/2 of those hours! Also, the further north I got, the colder it got (which I liked!) I was even able to wear my winter coat for a few days!
The conference itself was wonderful! What a blessing it was to be able to be a part of it! I had such a great time in fellowship with the folks up there - made some good friends!

I am home now for the week, and next Saturday, Lord willing, I'll be driving up to the Minneapolis area for a meeting there.

Please continue to pray for me as I travel! And please pray as I am continuing to work on my schedule for next year.

Hope you all have a great day!

Meetings

2009-09-24T17:10:00.003-05:00

I've had some great meetings over the last couple of weeks! I was first in Fond du Lac, WI before heading to the Northwoods of Minnesota for a week of meetings in various towns - truly Scandinavian country!
All of the services went really well - and I was able to make some new friends along the way :)

I praise the Lord for all He's done!

I'm back in the States

2009-09-04T19:36:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I made it home from Sweden safely!

I had a wonderful trip - the Lord really blessed!
Thanks for your prayers!

2009-09-02T10:40:00.003-05:00

"What a Friend We Have in Jesus" in Swedish

The End of My Trip

2009-09-02T09:34:00.007-05:00

It's hard to believe that my trip to Sweden has about come to a close. It will be hard to go home - I love this country and I love these people!

I had such a wonderful visit in Jönköping! I was able to learn so much - and I had such a great time getting to know the folks there!

On Friday, I was able to meet my friend Jennifer in the city of Borås, Sweden - about an hour from Jönköping. My friend Lotta drove me to see her - it was great to be able to meet and visit with her :) We had a great time!

On Saturday we visited Jönköping's weekly outdoor market - lots of people were out! Typically, the Neelys and other church folk stand outside the church (which is downtown - a few blocks from the market) and hand out tracts/visit with the people who pass by. They have several people who regularly stop to talk - it is a great outreach opportunity!

Several young people from the church (my age group) got together at Lotta's place on Saturday night - we had a great time hanging out :) We were talking some about the spiritual condition of Sweden and the desperate need for the Gospel. It was so encouraging to hear the thoughts and burdens of these individuals! There is really a great deal of ministry potential in this city!

Sunday was church - and fika (probably the most important thing to Swedes! basically, it is a coffee break/fellowship time!) The service was great and very encouraging as I listened to the testimonies and the heart of the people here (through some translation).

Later on Sunday afternoon, Lotta, her boys, and I drove up to the adorable town of Gränna and took a ferry across Lake Vättern to visit Visingsö (large Island in the lake). It was a beautiful day to be out on the water - and a nice day for walking around the Island! We had fun!

I spent Monday wandering around Jönköping - watching people, listening to people talk, trying to learn my way around, etc. After a long time of that, I caught a bus (no, I didn't get lost!) to the centrum where Lotta works. I had fika there before meeting up with Lotta at 5pm (it was a good chance to get some notes written up, get some work done, etc).

Yesterday, I took the train back to Stockholm. It was hard to say goodbye to Jönköping! I already miss my friends there!

I am currently staying with friends here in Stockholm - tomorrow morning I'll be flying back to Chicago, Lord willing.

This trip has certainly re-energized me - I can't wait until the day I can be back in Sweden to stay! Please pray that the Lord would provide for me to get to Sweden soon - that the support would come in quickly!

Thanks again for your prayers!

More from Sweden!

2009-08-27T13:21:00.007-05:00

Hej från Sverige! (hello from sweden!)

My trip continues to go well! Thanks for the prayers!

Before I left for this trip, I asked God to provide me with some good opportunities for me to practice my Swedish - and He sure has!

I have been practicing my Swedish a lot since I arrived here - but today was probably the most I used it (and HAD to use it)!

I spent the morning at Ikea as well as at the centrum (mall) where my friend Lotta works (which in and of itself provided some good opportunities to talk to people in Swedish!). After meeting Lotta for middag (lunch) I decided to take the bus back to her house. It turned out to be a big adventure! I was fine on the first leg of the journey, but after I switched buses, things got interesting! Let's just say I missed my stop and really didn't know where I was! I ended up way out in the country at some little bus stop :) I had asked the bus driver, but he didn't seem to know where the stop was! I even showed him the paper I had it written on (just in case I had said it wrong), but he still looked confused! And then it turned out he didn't speak any English, so I had to ask him all my questions in Swedish (which was actually kind of fun)! I'm sure I probably sounded pretty silly, though, trying to come up with the right Swedish words in the right Swedish sentence order (I'm thankful at least for Rosetta Stone - it seems to have worked to some degree)!

At least it was a beautiful day! And the drive in the country was very nice :)
Well anyway, after talking with the bus driver, I got off and found these two nice ladies waiting at this little bus stop. They graciously helped me figure out where to go from there! I'm thankful for that! And they spoke some English, so that helped too!

Long story short, I eventually made it to where I was supposed to be! But boy was my brain tired :)

I'm sure that upon moving to Sweden, there will be many more such adventures (at least until I figure out my way around the bus system)! It'll certainly be fun learning!

Also, on a serious note, please keep the Neely family in your prayers. Ron Neely's mother passed away on Tuesday night. He is now back in the States and his sons are flying back as well (one today, one tomorrow). Please pray for them at this time.

Tack så mycket!

Hej då! (goodbye!)

Jag är i Sverige!

2009-08-25T07:37:00.005-05:00

I am having a wonderful time in Sweden! My plane landed at Arlanda International Airport in Stockholm at about 7:25 am last Friday morning (12:25am WI time). Joe and Ursula Morell picked me up at the airport and I spent an enjoyable day with their family :) I stayed up the entire day (thankfully without ever getting too tired!), went to bed just a little bit early, and managed to sleep through the entire night! I felt pretty well rested come morning - and ready to hit phase 2 of my travel plans :) I'm thankful I didn't get hit with jet lag too bad!

On Saturday afternoon, Ursula dropped me off at the train station in Stockholm and I took a train into Jönköping. What a beautiful day for a train ride it was too! The scenery was incredible - farms, meadows, lakes, rivers, small towns, etc.! (This is the real Sweden!)

About 3 1/2 hours later, after a brief train switch in the town of Nässjö, I arrived in Jönköping!

I've very much enjoyed being here! I feel right at home in this place :) I've been able to see a lot and learn a lot! And I love listening to the Swedish language! Though I don't understand a great deal, I have been able to understand a little bit - and I've also been able to practice what I have been learning :) That has been fun!

The weather has been great too! Sweater weather most days - especially in the mornings and evenings. In the afternoons, it has averaged in the upper 60's/lower 70's - complete with sunshine and cool breeze! Not much humidity :) It did rain some on Saturday morning, but it didn't last - and the rain was nice and relaxing!

Since Saturday, I've been staying with the Ron Neely family (missionary family here at the church in Jönköping), but later this afternoon I'm going to go stay with Lotta, a friend of mine from here :) I'm looking forward to spending time with her and her kids!

Lotta and I are also going to try to meet up with Jennifer, my penpal here in Sweden. Jennifer only lives an hour or less from Jönköping, so it is a doable trip! I pray it will all work out :)

I do ask that you please pray for Ron Neely. He just got word that his mother in WV is doing very poorly physically and isn't expected to live very long. He flew out today to go be with her. Please pray for his entire family at this time.

Well, that is all for now! I'll try to write more later :)
Thanks for your prayers!

*pics: 1. a view from Taberg Mountain (the tallest point in the Småland region and a historically significant old mining area) 2. Sofia Kyrkan (largest Lutheran church in Jönköping) 3. a view from Jönköping's Stadparken (city park) 4. Bibel Baptist Församlingen (Bible Baptist Assembly) - the Neely's church 5. a swedish flag 6./7. two more views from Taberg Mt. 8. pretty landscaping on top of Taberg Mt. 9. Ron and Inga Neely 10. Jönköping and Lake Vättern

Praise!

2009-08-18T16:39:00.003-05:00

Praise the Lord! I have another new supporting church :) My support level is now up to 63%!!!!

Upcoming Sweden Trip

2009-08-14T13:57:00.003-05:00

In the last 2 weeks, while I have not necessarily had meetings scheduled, I have been able to get involved in a number of different areas. I was able to visit a prayer meeting in Delafield where some friends of mine are starting a church. As part of that I was also able to do some phone calling for them as well. It is exciting to see the ministry potential in that area! I'm thrilled for the work that is being started there!

I was also able to spend a long weekend down in IL with my grandparents! I had a very nice time with them. Then on that Sunday I was able to visit the church where I spent the first part of my life - now a supporting church of mine! I had a great time visiting with the folks there!

Tomorrow morning, I'll be heading up to Lake Benton, MN for a meeting on Sunday. Please pray for good driving weather and for safety on the road.

I also wanted to let you know that I'll be taking a quick trip over to Sweden this next week! I'll be flying out, Lord willing, next Thursday (Aug. 20th) and will be gone for 2 weeks. I should get on Thursday September 3rd.
I would appreciate your prayer for safety as well as for ministry opportunities during the next couple of weeks!

I'm home again!

2009-07-30T10:30:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I made it home safely to WI! I got in yesterday around 4:30pm :)

Now I'm just working on re-organizing, cleaning, and catching up on stuff :)

Thanks to those of you who were praying for safety in traveling!

I'll write more later!

MD, D.C. and other stuff

2009-07-24T14:19:00.004-05:00

My meeting in Ellicott City, MD went really well this past Sunday! I was able to speak in several different Sunday School classes at the church there as well as share my presentation in the evening service.

I spent Monday through Wednesday morning in Herndon, VA, taking my bike into D.C. all day Tuesday. I had a great day in our nation's capital! The weather was perfect - cool and breezy in the morning and warm and sunny in the afternoon! I was able to see a lot while I was there - over-all it was a very relaxing day!

I was originally scheduled to be in a church on Wednesday evening, but they cancelled b/c of a business meeting, so I visited my aunt and uncle's church here in the Pittsburgh area instead.

I have one more meeting out here in the east before I head back to the midwest next week. I'll be in Washington, PA all day on Sunday, participating in each of the services there.

This coming Tuesday I'll be heading back toward home, with a stop off in Indianapolis to see a friend.

That's all for now!

Thanks for your prayers!

Sunny Days

2009-07-16T12:12:00.003-05:00

It's a humid day here in PA! But the sunshine is nice :) I got to get out and wash my car this morning - with the help of my cousins! Now it's nice and shiny :)

I had a great meeting at Fellowship Baptist Church in Baden this past weekend! That church is kind of like my "home church" while I'm out this way, so it was nice to be able to share my burden for Sweden with them!

Lord willing, I will be leaving Saturday afternoon for Ellicott City, MD. I will be participating in the Sunday services of Harvester Baptist Church. I'm looking forward to the opportunities there!

Have a marvelous day!

O, and for those of you who have expressed concern: my foot is doing much better, thank you! It feels great :) I've had no complications from the nail!

Fireworks and Rusty Nails

2009-07-10T09:29:00.003-05:00

I hope everyone had a great 4th of July weekend!

I spent the holiday with family in Leechburg, PA. I had a great time with them :)

One unfortunate event of the weekend: I was wading in the creek with my cousins (catching crawdads and minnows, etc) when we decided to cross over this old covered bridge. Unfortunately, I stepped on a rusty nail - which went through my flip-flop/into my foot. I had to go in on Monday morning to get a tetnus shot/meds. Never a dull moment! :)

I visited my aunt/uncle's church on Sunday - and got to give a brief testimony in the deaf Sunday School class (my aunt/uncle are both deaf).

On Wednesday I drove down to Fairmont, WV for a service there. I gave my testimony, etc. to the adults and then was able to go talk with the kids in their summer program. I enjoyed my time with them!

I am back up in the Pittsburgh area now. I'll be giving my presentation at my other aunt/uncle's church here on Sunday.

Then in a week I will, Lord willing, be heading out to Maryland for a meeting there. I also am planning a biking trip into D.C. while I'm out that way :)

After that, I have one more meeting out this way before I'll be heading home!

I appreciate your continued prayers!

Pics: fireworks, me and my cousins (Chelsea and Isabela)

Update/Niagara Falls pics

2009-06-29T20:29:00.006-05:00

Sorry for the delay in updates! I spent a week on vacation with my brother and sister-in-law in Chesapeake, VA and didn't get a lot of stuff done!

I just got back to Pittsburgh tonight. I am looking forward to a good night's rest! It has certainly been a busy past few weeks! Lots of traveling!

I had a great time with Dan and Jen in VA! It was so fun to be able to spend some time with them :)

From their place, I headed up to Syracuse, NY for a meeting on Sunday. That went really well! The folks there were wonderful and I enjoyed a great time of fellowship!

Today I stopped by Niagara Falls on my way back to Pittsburgh. I hadn't been there since I was little, and I thought it would be neat to see it again.

When I got there, I decided to go on the Maid of the Mist boat ride which takes you down by the base of the falls. That was really cool! It was kind of like boating through a giant sprinkler system! It was literally an awesome sight/experience! God's creation is so amazing!

I'll be here in the Pittsburgh area for the rest of the week - I'm planning on spending the 4th of July with family!

Thanks again for those of you who have been praying for me - especially with the many miles of driving in the past few days! I appreciate it!

Have a great week!

North Carolina

2009-06-16T21:17:00.002-05:00

Just a quick update!

I am presently in Greensboro, NC. I drove down from Pittsburgh on Monday. It was a longer drive, but uneventful! And I didn't get too tired, so that's a real plus!
It really was a beautiful drive - lots of mountains/great views (but don't worry, mom, I kept my eyes on the road - almost always!)

I have really been enjoying the conference here! (I am at Family Fellowship Week with my mission board - World Wide New Testament Baptist Mission)
The messages have been so challenging and encouraging! The theme is "Earnestly Contend for the Faith."
It has also been great to see people again - to build and strengthen friendships.

The conference runs through Thursday night. Then Friday, Lord willing, I will be heading over to the Virginia Beach area to visit my brother and sister-in-law for the week! I am looking forward to seeing them again!

That's all for now!
Have a great night!

Some Stuff

2009-06-08T17:49:00.002-05:00

I apologize for the delay in updating this thing! I'll try to briefly summarize what's been going on since my last post.

My meetings have been great, traveling has been good, fellowship has been sweet! I've been mostly in the Pittsburgh area, but I did travel east to the Philadelphia area last week.

Car information: Thanks to my Uncle and his family, my car no longer leaks oil! That is a huge blessing! So now it is running extra smoothly - though I dare say it could probably use a trip to the car wash :) I might try and get that done tomorrow!

Music stuff: I've been able to put some good time in on my saxophones - and have enjoyed being able to use them often while ministering in churches. I am hoping to get an arrangement or two done for the soprano sax within the next several weeks.
I am also working on writing a song for my sister. Please pray that that will go well!

Today was a beautiful day, so I took my bike up to North Park and did the trail around the lake. Afterwards I was able to make some balloon animals/hand out wordless book bracelets for a few kids at the playground there. I was also able to talk with their mother and give her a bridge tract.

Well, I think that's about it for now! Have a super day! And keep your eyes on the Lord - He gives the strength to make it through each and every day!

Update and Pictures

2009-05-26T12:58:00.002-05:00

My recent meetings have gone very well! On Sunday, I finished up a mission's conference at Ambassador Baptist Church in Pittsburgh. It was a great weekend of meetings!

I spent Memorial Day with family in Leechburg (Pittsburgh vacinity). It was a beautiful day - and a great time with family I haven't seen in a while! My cousins kept me plenty busy :) I enjoyed every minute!

Pics: Some from Memorial Day: badmitton, wading in the creek, making special treats, etc :)

More from PA

2009-05-12T15:58:00.003-05:00

I had a great week watching my cousins - they were on their best behavior for me :)

And the week sure did fly by - as we were certainly kept busy with baseball games, school concerts, school itself, visits with friends, house showings, etc. I certainly got the full "mother" experience - complete with a sick child for an evening (a direct result of eating too much pizza)! But I enjoyed my time with them very much - good memories and experiences! I would certainly do it again :)

I even was able to try my hand at substitute teaching - which went really well! I had the 3rd grade primarily, but also had 4th for a few classes. The kids were great - and they helped out a lot! Ahhh - the things one can learn on deputation!

I drove out to eastern PA this past weekend for a meeting in New Freedom on Sunday. The church there is actually a supporting church for the Deliches, one of the families I'll be working with in Sweden! I had a wonderful time there :) It was a mission's emphasis Sunday, so there was also another missionary family visiting for the morning - the Murrays to Zambia. I enjoyed being able to meet them as well!

On Wed., Lord willing, I'll be driving out to Howard, PA. After that I have meetings in Erie, Butler, and a conference in Pittsburgh.

Please keep these meetings in prayer!

Well, that's all for now! Have a great day!

pics: some from my time with my family here in PA

Great Meetings - and New Support!

2009-05-04T10:54:00.003-05:00

I praise the Lord for a great conference down in McKeesport, PA this past weekend! I had a great time of fellowship with the folks there :) The services were wonderful - and the messages really spoke to my heart.
While I was there, the church voted to take all the missionaries represented at the conference on for support -bringing my support level up to 58.2%! I am rejoicing in the Lord's provision!

Now I am back at my uncle's home. I am watching the boys for the week while both my aunt and uncle are away. I'm looking forward to spending time with them! I think we're going to have a great time :)

It also looks like I may be substitute teaching in a Christian school this coming Thursday (3rd grade). That will be a new experience - but I'm looking forward to it!

Well, that's all for now! Have a great day :)

Pennsylvania

2009-04-29T08:20:00.003-05:00

Thought I better get an update posted!

I have been here in PA for a week now and things have been going really well. I have enjoyed being able to stay with family!

The weather has been pretty nice - especially this past weekend. It was sunny and hot - got up to 90 degrees at one point! Good biking weather :) (though I'm still adjusting to these PA hills!) Then we got some rain last night and it's supposed to maybe rain and storm throughout today. It has cooled things off a bit.

I will be driving down to McKeesport, PA tomorrow for a weekend mission's conference. I am looking forward to the opportunity! Please pray that all will go well!

Well, I'm off to get some more work done! Have a great day!

*Picture: me and my cousins at the Pittsburgh Zoo

Sunshine and Rainshowers

2009-04-21T08:15:00.006-05:00

You know what they say, "April showers bring May flowers!" Well, I am looking forward to those flowers :) It has rained quite a bit the past few days - kind of dreary out, but at least not too cold!

But I can't complain. It was really nice out the last several days of last week - sunny and warm, even got over 70 degrees on Saturday! I certainly enjoyed being outside :) Tommy (my cousin) and I got to do some bike riding - we also played at the park and even did some basketball! It was a lot of fun (even if he did keep beating me at tag!).

And one of the afternoons that Tommy was in school, I got to go on a long bike ride - rode along a river trail and spent some great quiet time with God! Unfortunately I did manage to get some sunburn out of it - I was enjoying the sunshine so much I didn't even think about that :)

But I had a great week with Tommy - it was hard to say goodbye. He kept asking me to change my schedule and stay with him! He is really very sweet :) I enjoyed being "mom" for a few days with him.

I had a great weekend in Nappanee, IN. I had visited the church last year and was able to present Sweden there this year! I even got to stay with the same people I stayed with last time :) I had a good time visiting/fellowshipping with them.

Now I am in OH visiting a friend of mine from MBBC. She works in one of the offices at Baptist Mid-Missions, so I am actually there at the moment :) I'll be heading out tomorrow, Lord willing, heading over to Pittsburgh, PA. Please pray for some nicer traveling weather :)

*pics: Tommy and the "armor of God" (Shield of Faith, Helmet of Salvation, Sword of the Spirit, Breastplate of Righteousness), the cakes may be a bit out of season, but Sandi and I had fun baking/decorating them last night :) Just a bit of Christmas in April! Mom, I know you will like that!

Conference Blessings

2009-04-11T19:48:00.003-05:00

What a great week! I had a wonderful time down at Heritage Baptist Church in Crown Point, IN for a Sunday-Thursday mission's conference! The meetings went so well - Evangelist Tom Palmer was the keynote speaker, and the messages were such a blessing: encouraging and challenging! I had a wonderful time visiting with the folks there and it was so refreshing to spend time with the other missionary families as well!
The week flew by in a flurry of activity! Besides the nightly services, there were also daily meals with church families, a wonderful ladies' luncheon, and group activities (including a visit to both a dairy farm and a candy factory!). I also had the opportunity to go with Pastor Peterson and his wife to visit one of their shut-ins. I also handed out countless balloon animals to the kids - they really seemed to like that! :) I loved the interaction with them!

Now I am in the Chicago area - staying with family. I'll be watching my cousin for a few nights this next week while my aunt and uncle get away for a little vacation :)

Well, I hope you have a great night!
And may our minds be focused on our RESURRECTED Savior this Easter holiday! Praise God for the wonderful gift of His Son - and for the salvation which He offers so full and free!

Kids and Cars

2009-04-03T20:37:00.005-05:00

Kids
Today I got to speak to the Kindergarten/1st grade class at Calvary Baptist Christian School here in Watertown. The kids were great - they are such faithful little prayer warriors! I especially loved the great big group hug I received after I was done speaking :) That was very special!

Car
I got my oil changed in my car this morning and found out that I had an alignment problem. Thankfully I was able to get my car in at Tires Plus! So I had them check the suspension and alignment - and had them also go ahead and check the brake pads, etc. Turned out I had a few more problems than just alignment (needing new brake pads, etc) - nothing too major, though (Praise the Lord), and I was able to get stuff worked on today! I should be all set for my trip tomorrow :) The timing of it all was actually great - a real blessing (better to find the problems now then to find them out the hard way later).

Well, I probably ought to finish doing some packing so I can be ready to head to IN tomorrow!

Snow, Sunshine, Rain...Spring in Wisconsin!

2009-03-31T15:20:00.002-05:00

What a crazy weekend! I got up early on Sunday to drive up to Lodi for meetings - there was about 3 inches of snow on the ground and it was still coming down :) It was kind of a messy drive to church, but by the time I got to Lodi the sun was starting to come out. By the end of the morning service, most of the snow was melted! It turned into a beautiful day :) Strangely enough, though, I think it was the first time this year that I actually had to drive to a church in snow (and it isn't even winter - it's spring)!
Now, today I'm in Union Grove...and it's raining :) Welcome to spring!

My meetings have gone well- I'm grateful for the opportunities to serve and to share about Sweden! I had a great time with the folks in Lodi all day Sunday - I was actually there last year for their mission's month and got invited back again this time around! It was nice to see the people there again :)
Yesterday I drove down to Union Grove, where I'm participating in a mission's conference through Wednesday. Then, Saturday, I'll be driving down to Crown Point, IN for another mission's conference!

Once I leave on Saturday, I won't be back in Wisconsin again until August - so please pray that traveling and all will continue to go well! I really appreciate it!

Update

2009-03-22T15:42:00.003-05:00

I had a great conference up in St. Cloud - although the weather there wasn't quite as nice as here in Watertown :) (though it really wasn't bad there either - never did pull out my winter coat, just left it in the trunk of my car!) But it was certainly a blessing to be able to be a part of the services there!

I got home Thursday evening and will be here in the area for about a week. Next Sunday I'll be in Lodi, WI and off to a mission's conference in Union Grove, WI that next couple days.

Yesterday was "Family Fun Day" for my family :) We went in to Milwaukee and my sister and I went ice skating at the Petit Center (an olympic training center). We also got to visit a Half-Price Books (one of my favorite places) and then had dinner at Olive Garden :) It was nice to be able to spend the day with my family!

Well, I gotta finish practicing my saxophone and then get ready to go to church! Have a great week!

Spring is here...at least for now!

2009-03-16T16:53:00.002-05:00

What a BEAUTIFUL day! Nice t-shirt weather - sunny and in the 60's :) It feels like spring! I just hope it sticks around for a while!

I had a wonderful weekend down in Peoria! I got to stay with my uncle and his family so that was nice :) The services on Sunday went really well - and the church had already decided to take me on for support! That brings my support up to 56.5%!!!! Praise the Lord for that!

Tomorrow morning I'll be heading up to St. Cloud, MN for a mission's conference at Granite City Baptist Church. Please pray for safety and for good meetings!

Have a wonderful day!

Back to Wisconsin

2009-03-10T11:05:00.004-05:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that I made it home safely to Watertown last night! I was "racing" ahead of a blizzard warning that was put in effect especially for Northwestern MN (where I was yesterday morning!). Today they are supposed to get up to around 11-13 inches of snow. Praise God that I was able to leave before it hit! That would not be fun for traveling.
But driving yesterday, you would have no idea that a blizzard was coming - the sky was blue and it wasn't all that cold (pretty nice, actually - and sunny)! It was a beautiful day for driving :)

I had an absolutely WONDERFUL month and a half of meetings in MN! All the services went well - and I was able to serve in a number of different ways! My saxophones got put to good use this past month as I was able to help a couple of friends with their respective band programs (working with the sax students). I absolutely loved that opportunity! I also had opportunities to speak to kids in various schools about Sweden! I always enjoy that!

I'll be home for a few more days, then I'll be heading down to Peoria, IL for a meeting on Sunday. From there I'll actually be heading back to St. Cloud, MN! I had a meeting scheduled in the church there for this coming fall, but they wanted to know if I could come take part in their missions conference - so I'm going next week :) Can't turn down that opportunity!

So for the rest week, I'll just be working on things here at home - making some phone calls, doing some paper work, getting my update out, finishing some music I've been working on, etc. And then this Friday I also have the opportunity to judge for the Sr. High WACS (WI Association of Christian Schools) competition which is actually held at my home church. I'll be judging for small vocal ensembles. That should be fun :)

Thanks again for your prayers!
Rejoice in the Lord..........Always!

More Minnesota Stuff

2009-02-28T09:51:00.003-06:00

It is a beautiful sunny morning here in MN! Not exactly warm (I think it’s about 5 degrees), but it is nice to see the sun shining through :)
The other day we got about 10 inches of snow or so! It sure is beautiful outside – a regular winter wonderland! I’m just thankful I didn’t have to travel during the snow storm!

I’ll be leaving my current location later today and heading over to Fridley (Woodcrest Baptist Church) for several days. Woodcrest is a supporting church of mine.

The time is sure flying by! It is hard to believe we have reached the very end of February! My time in MN is almost up (for now anyway!). Lord willing, I will be heading back toward WI a week from this coming Monday.

And then the BIG NEWS: I am also so excited that I have finally hit past the 50% mark in my support!!!! I am now at 50.3% :) Praise the Lord for His wonderful provision!

Hope you all have a wonderful day in the Lord!

More from Minnesota

2009-02-23T16:31:00.002-06:00

I just finished a wonderful weekend over in Inver Grove Heights, MN! The services Sunday went well and I had the opportunity to participate in several different areas of ministry. I really enjoyed my time with the folks there!

Today I decided to visit the Mall of America and Ikea :) I had never been to the Mall of America before, and it is just amazing how big it is! So many stores! Believe it or not, though, I somehow managed to walk the mall without actually buying anything! And thankfully, I remembered where I parked my car :)

From the mall I hopped over to Ikea (which is right next door!) and walked around there for a little while. I picked up a few Swedish groceries and enjoyed some delicious lingonberry juice :) The lady at the checkout was even from Sweden!

Weather-wise, it's feeling more like winter around here - the temperature has been colder and we got several inches of snow last week! I'm just grateful that it hasn't caused any problems with traveling :)

Well, that's about it for now! I hope you all have a great week!

Minnesota Update

2009-02-12T11:25:00.005-06:00

My visit here in MN has been really great! My meetings have gone well and I've greatly enjoyed the fellowship with the various church folks!

The weather has been amazingly warm for this time of year! I even could do without my winter coat for a few days as the temperature was up to around 30 degrees - one day getting up to about 40 degrees!

When I was up in Fergus Falls, I took an afternoon and drove over into North Dakota. It was a beautiful afternoon and I was able to spend some time walking in a park by the river. And then, following a much needed car wash (gotta love the salt and slush!), I spent a couple of hours in a used book store :) While I was there, I was able to talk with the lady who owns it. We had a good conversation, and I was able to share the gospel with her. She wasn't really interested, however. She believes in a "higher power" of sorts, but she does not believe in God - or that Jesus, in fact, actually lived. It was sad, really.

Right now I am in Burnsville, MN staying with a friend of mine from college! I am enjoying my time with her :) Yesterday, I was able to go and help with the band she teaches at a Christian school in the area. That was a lot of fun! I got to play all 3 of my saxophones :) Tomorrow I get to teach a lesson for her saxophone student!

Thanks for your prayers! I trust you will have a marvelous day!

And I'm Off!

2009-02-02T13:26:00.004-06:00

Well, my drive to MN on Saturday went really well - basically uneventful (which is a good thing!). The weather was certainly terrific (got up to around 45 degrees! A real heat wave!)

I am in Sauk Centre at the moment. I gave my testimony/presentation at Faith Baptist Church here in town yesterday. I was also able to teach the Jr./Sr. High girls Sunday School class, do an object lesson for the kids in the evening service, and play both my soprano and tenor saxophones. I enjoyed the opportunities to minister!

I'll be here until tomorrow afternoon, then I'll be heading over to Fergus Falls, MN. I'll be there through Friday, presenting my ministry at Woodlawn Baptist Church during the Wednesday evening service.

As always, thanks for your prayers! May the Lord bless you as you serve Him today!

O, and one more thing - an exciting praise! Another church just contacted me concerning support, so I'm now up to 45.2% ! Praise the Lord!

On your mark, Get set...

2009-01-28T14:46:00.004-06:00

I had a great time with the second grade kids at Rock County Christian School the other day! They were so sweet! I was able to talk to them about Sweden - and pass out some Swedish fish candy :) I enjoyed my time with them! They are some of my most faithful prayer warriors :)

I'm spending the rest of this week working on getting organized for my next trip out. I'll be leaving, Lord willing, on Saturday and will be gone until around the second week of March. I will be visiting several churches in Minnesota.

Many thanks to those who have purchased my book! You have been a blessing!

Thanks for your faithfulness in prayer!

To God be the glory!

*Pictures: just some random pics of our cats :)

Chilly Illinois

2009-01-24T11:12:00.003-06:00

Greetings from a chilly Illinois :) I have to say the weather here has been quite fluctuating as of late! The other day it was in the 40's (Yaaaa! Get to ditch the winter coat!) and today it is below zero with windchills down to around -20 to -25 degrees!
It's kinda funny, though! I'm staying with my grandparents right now, and this morning I ran out to the barn to feed the cats. My hair was still a little damp from my shower, and the air was so cold it froze my hair! Needless to say, the next time I went out, I remembered to put on my hat!

I have had a great week down here! I've been helping out a supporting church (Bethany Baptist Church of Altona, IL) this week with some computer entry, etc. It has been nice to be able to spend the time with my grandparents as well :)

I'll be here in Altona for church tomorrow, and then on Monday I'll be heading up to Janesville, WI to talk to a class at a Christian School there. I'm really looking forward to that! I was supposed to be there a little over a week ago, but the school got cancelled because of the bitter cold. I'm glad it worked to reschedule!

Then, Lord willing, I'll be off to Minnesota a week from today! Please pray for good safety - and good weather!

Thanks for your prayers!
Keep warm!

Brrrrrrrrrr!

2009-01-15T12:46:00.003-06:00

It's a cold one today! This afternoon, it has finally warmed up to the balmy temperature of -8 degrees! It isn't even supposed to hit 0 degrees at all today - and of course, with wind chill things feel just a bit colder! :)

I was supposed to be speaking at a Christian school down in Janesville, WI this morning, but the school closed because of the dangerously cold temperatures. Gotta love winter! But, can't complain - after all, it could always be worse!

Stay warm!

When the Rains Descend Information

2009-01-08T16:25:00.004-06:00

When the Rains Descend by Melissa Carlson

Book information:

$7.00/book + *$2.50 shipping
All proceeds go toward my ministry in Sweden.

If anyone is interested in purchasing a book, please email me your order at reachingswedenforchrist@yahoo.com and I will email you an invoice.

The invoice will include a link in which you will be able to pay via my Pay Pal account. You can pay with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Debit card, or through your own Pay Pal account.

Once payment is confirmed, your order will be shipped.

Feel free to contact me with any questions!

reachingswedenforchrist@yahoo.com

Thank you for your part in the ministry in Sweden!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson
Jer. 32:27

*Shipping cost is for up to 3 books. For larger orders, please contact me and we can work out the shipping details.

When the Rains Descend

2008-12-23T21:52:00.004-06:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I got my book!
I will let you know further details soon!

Have a Merry Christmas!

Wonderful Wintry Wisconsin

2008-12-19T12:59:00.007-06:00

It is feeling mighty wintry here in Wisconsin! We just got about another foot of snow - and we were already ahead of the snow average for this area at this time of year. And to think winter is still a couple days away :)

I had a great weekend last week down in Roscoe, IL helping out with "Journey to Bethlehem." There was a great turnout - almost 700 people between the two nights! Many from the community came - a lot of "first timers." The Gospel was clearly presented - please pray that God will continue to work in hearts.

I'm home now through Christmas/New Year's. I've been able to get lots done - and it is nice to spend time with family! My sister and I went out for dinner last night and just enjoyed hanging out! Good times!

My book is not here yet. I am told it should be in by the 29th, so we'll see! Please pray that there won't be any more delays!

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas! Enjoy spending time with your family and friends!

*pictures: some snow pics from today, some pics from "Journey to Bethlehem," and a pic of my brother and sister-in-law from Thanksgiving

Snow and Plans

2008-12-12T11:14:00.004-06:00

Well, there is about 17 inches of snow on the ground (thanks to the snowstorm we got earlier this week which brought us nearly another foot of snow)! It is a beautiful sight! Today is cold (I think about 7 degrees right now) but sunny and cheery! Should be a great day for traveling :)
I am about to leave to go down to Roscoe, IL. I'll be helping tonight and tomorrow night with Heritage Baptist's "Journey to Bethlehem." Please pray that there will be a good turnout in spite of the cold and that the Gospel will be clearly presented!

Have a marvelous day!

A Wisconsin Winter Wonderland

2008-12-08T11:29:00.002-06:00

It's a real winter wonderland here in WI! We've had some beautiful snowfalls throughout this past week, and we're supposed to get some more tonight and tomorrow - maybe 10-12 more inches! It is certainly beautiful, but not too fun to drive in. I'm thankful for the safety God has provided - last night I was driving through a lot of blowing snow coming home from Beloit.

I had a great day of services at Faith Baptist Church in Beloit, WI. I was able to speak during the Sunday School hour and also during the afternoon service. The Ladies' Chorus from MBBC was also there to sing in the services. I enjoyed being able to hear them - they were a real blessing!

Update on my book: Things have taken longer than anticipated, but according to the publisher, I should get my copies by early next week. I'll let you know when they come.

Winter Blessings

2008-12-01T12:37:00.002-06:00

I trust everyone had a great Thanksgiving! I sure did :) I enjoyed spending time with family down in IL. My brother and sister-in-law came in from PA, so it was great to be able to hang out with them again!

It is definitely looking more and more like winter up here in WI! It started snowing yesterday afternoon and it's still coming down :) It sure is beautiful! I love it :) It's a regular winter wonderland outside!

Well, I'll be home all this week. Lord willing, this next Sunday I'll be driving down to Beloit, WI for the day. Then that following weekend I'll be participating in Heritage Baptist Church's (Roscoe, IL) "Journey to Bethlehem." I'm really looking forward to that! I was able to help with it last year and I had a great time! It is such a great outreach opportunity into the community.

I want to share a neat story with you. My grandma and I went into WalMart this past Tuesday morning, and on the way out I stopped to look at some used books they were selling real cheap at the store entrance. I found a couple books to get for Christmas gifts and paid the greeter who was taking the money. Then I handed him a tract. I don't think I've ever seen quite the reaction I did that day! I told him what it was and this man's face lit up with a huge smile. He was so thankful to get it - said "thank you" several times. It was really an encouragement. I just pray that he reads it, understands it, and accepts Christ!

Beautiful Snow and Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-24T08:43:00.003-06:00

When I looked out my window this morning, I was greeted by a beautiful sight. The ground, the trees, everything is covered with a layer of fresh snow! It is very beautiful! I guess it's official - winter is here :) Time to put my snow scraper to work!

I had a great weekend up in northern Wisconsin. I shared my ministry with the folks of First Baptist Church there in River Falls. Everything went really well and I rejoice in God's provision and goodness!

This morning I'll be heading down to my grandparents house in IL. I'll be helping them get things ready for Thanksgiving (which is just around the corner!).

I hope you all have a wonderful time of Thanksgiving with your family and friends!

Report

2008-11-14T14:16:00.002-06:00

Things have been going well! I had a great weekend in Sterling, IL! The weather has been a lot more like it typically is this time of year - much cooler :) It has been down below freezing several times. Today isn't so bad, though - in the low 40's. We have even had some snow flurries :) I'm not quite ready to break out the winter coat yet - we'll see how long that can last! I really like the temperature where it is right now :)

I have been especially thankful these days for the lowering gas prices! What a blessing it has been! It would be nice if prices could stay lower for a while :) It is down to 2.09/gal here in Watertown!

I have been working on my schedule for next year. I am in need of a few more meetings in the MN area for the beginning of March - please pray that I will be able to get that filled up!

Thanks for your continued prayers!

A Call to Prayer

2008-11-07T14:23:00.003-06:00

Please Pray for the….

SAMI
an indigenous people of the arctic

Location: Northern regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia

Population: 85,000-135,000

Languages: Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, Russian, various Sami dialects (dependant upon location)

Religions: primarily Lutheranism, Orthodoxy, Sami Shamanism (traditional religion – not widely practiced today)
Baptist Missionaries: None Known

WHO WILL GO?
WHO WILL PRAY?

The need is great...the laborers are few.

The Lord has given me a real burden for the Sami people. It is my prayer and desire to one day be able to serve and work in the arctic region of Sweden. As of now, there is very little Gospel witness in that part of the world.

Please pray that the Lord will burden somebody's heart - that individuals will be willing to go and spread the Light of the Gospel among the Sami.

Perhaps the Lord will work in you heart concerning the spiritual needs of these people.

I ask that you please pray - I know that God can do an amazing work!

In light of this, I am looking to find a group of individuals who will be willing to commit to prayer specifically concerning this great need. If you are willing to commit to praying regularly for the Sami, I ask that you would please email me and let me know. My email address is reachingswedenforchrist@yahoo.com. I look forward to being prayer partners with you!

Thank you for your prayers! May the Gospel Light shine brightly throughout the darkest regions of this world!

*information/stats on the Sami taken from wikipedia

Another Update!

2008-11-06T17:39:00.003-06:00

I'm back from my trip to Northern WI! I praise the Lord for good safety! My meeting up in Chetek went really well - I also enjoyed a few days of quiet as I stayed out on the Camp Chetek property. I was able to get a lot done - and the weather was great so I was able to work on stuff down by the lake :) I was also able to spend some time with some friends while there - even got to go horseback riding!
The missions conference in La Crosse was very encouraging! I enjoyed my time there immensely. I especially enjoyed being able to do stuff with the kids at the Christian school they have there at the church! I was able to be with the elementary kids for chapel on both Monday and Wednesday mornings. On Tuesday, I had the real privilege of speaking to the teen girls. I loved being able to be with them! They are all a great bunch of kids! I pray that God will use them in a great way!
The weather this past week was unreal for November in Wisconsin! I can't believe how nice it was - up to almost 80 on Monday! I certainly took advantage of it - that afternoon I took my work down by the Mississippi River :) What a beautiful place to work!
Today, however, it is feeling more like fall! It was raining a good part of my trip home. I don't mind, though. I love the cooler weather :) Fall is my favorite season!

Also, I should be getting the initial copies of my book here in the next week or so! It should be available for sale shortly after that. I will definitely keep you all updated!

Have a great day - and rejoice in the Lord! He is STILL in control!

Home...and off again

2008-10-28T22:29:00.002-05:00

Quick note: I got back from Paducah, KY yesterday early evening. I had a great trip - good weather, safe drive, good meeting Sunday!
As for the weather - It is definitely fall! Things have gotten much cooler - even had some snow flurries around here the other day :) I enjoy the briskness of it all!
I am leaving tomorrow afternoon, Lord willing, for Chetek, WI. I have a meeting there tomorrow night, and I'll be staying up there through this weekend. Saturday I'll be heading to La Crosse, WI for a missions conference through the following Wednesday.
Please keep me in your prayers! Thanks!

Update

2008-10-24T12:27:00.003-05:00

I figure I ought to add an update! It has been a little while since the last one.
Praise: I was able to get all 4 of my wisdom teeth out this past Monday. Everything with that went really well - I was fortunately able to get it done w/just the novacaine shots. The procedure went smoothly, and I rejoice that my mouth seems to be healing well. I haven't really had any problems or pain with it. Praise the Lord for that!

My meeting last week in Kankakee went really well. The trip down was pretty wet - and full of construction (Chicago area - of course!) - but I was able to make it down safely and in good time. I also had a couple unique witnessing opportunities while down there.

I was in my home church this past Sunday - it was good to see folks there again!

This weekend is the 40th anniversary at Maranatha Baptist Bible College here in Watertown. I was able to go to the alumni chapel this morning, and I'm looking forward to attending the special "History of Maranatha" concert/reception this evening. It is always encouraging to reflect on God's blessings!

Tomorrow morning, Lord willing, I'll be driving down to Paducah, KY for services Sunday. I also have a Mon. morning breakfast meeting planned with the pastor/wife of a supporting church also there in Paducah.

Please pray for safety and for good meetings!
Have a great weekend!

And yet more Conference news!

2008-10-13T13:47:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to let you all know that I got back from my conference at Brookside Baptist Church in Brookfield, WI.
I had a great week with the church family there! It was nice to be able to meet many new friends as well as catch up with some people I already knew :)
The week really flew by - but it went really well! I especially enjoyed my times with the young people! I loved to see their enthusiasm about the missions conference! They are so sweet! Perhaps one day some of them will be going to the mission field - maybe even to Sweden :)

I'm home now for a couple of days. I'll be leaving, Lord willing, on Wednesday to drive down to Kankakee, IL for an evening service there. Then I'm home for a little bit. A week from today I go in to get my wisdom teeth taken out - please pray that that will go well!

Again, I know I say it a lot, but thanks so much for praying!
To God be the Glory!