Cayman Went....

I've Made It Here Ya'll

2008-09-10T19:28:00.000-07:00

This is what we arrived with..

So we have arrived in Austin. We have been here about 10 days. I just wanted to make a list of all the things God has blessed me since I have been here.

1. God gave me an awesome peace to be free from "stuff". We sold EVERYTING we owned except some pictures and our clothes. I didn't think it would be, but it was EASY.
We sold everything is about 5 days (some things I got more than I paid for it ) including my car, which I sold the day before I left.

2. My house, I love it! It's beautiful and perfect for us

3. Olivia is going to a brand NEW school right down the hill. I went and toured the school and met some of the second grade teachers. I fell in love with one of them, found out she was a christian and prayed that she would be Olivia's teacher. Guess what?? She is. God is good

4. There is a Target down the street, PLUS the Hill Country Galleria less than 10 minutes away, Remember, Cayman has ummm Kirks homestore. Somewhere b/w an Ace hardware and a run down bed bath and beyond.

5. Summer can stay home with me an extra year since we left Cayman

6. My neighbor invited me to a bible study down the street that offers Summer and Anabelle their own bible class. And guess what, they filled the last space for the 3 and 4 year olds.

7. We moved here just in time to escape Gustav in Cayman, then we were able to provide a place to stay for David's brother and girlfriend from Galveston

8. Olivia has "5 bestfriends" at school and went to her first birthday party last night.

9. There is an 18,000 sq ft furniture consignment shop down the street. Remember we SOLD everything

10. Summer got her first scraped knee EVER since she we finally live in a place where they can have bikes.

11. My house came with a trampoline. Huge bonus points for the safety net that came with it.

12. A Farmer's Market down the street. We haven't eaten food that hasn't been on a ship in over a year.

There is so much more. I've been trying to keep a list but it keeps growing.

Cayman Went Back To Texas

2008-08-11T19:14:00.000-07:00

Well...

we have been busy to say the least. David and I went to Europe (Amsterdam, Switzerland, and Italy) for almost 3 weeks. When we came back we finalized a decision to move to Austin Texas. Cayman has been a wonderful experience but we decided to take a business opportunity that allowed us to pick Austin Texas for our new home. I am here right now, we found a house in a day, blessed with a brand new school opening up a mile from our home for Olivia. With a Christan principle! Anyway, still lots to do. We return to Cayman to sell the last of all our possessions including wedding gifts and anniversary presents (we are keeping the photo album's) and leaving on August 20th. I will keep you posted. My new blog will be named Cayman Went.
Love,
Tara

Fathers Day 08

2008-06-16T10:05:00.001-07:00

Phil Wickham - Hallelujah

2008-05-06T17:57:00.001-07:00

I have a NEW favorite

Because I Have Not Been Providing Any Reading Enjoyment...

2008-05-06T17:30:00.000-07:00

I would encourage you to read about some special friends of mine. I have them listed to my right on my blog. First my sweet and amazing friend Vicki http://thebbunch.blogspot.com/ . Someday I want to be just like her. Make sure you read about how she makes life interesting in the middle of nowhere with her 5 children.

Next, read about my friend Jeanine http://www.realroots.blogspot.com/ who just finished her first ever 1/2 marathon with 4 kids in tow. She doesn't know it yet, but I am secretly inspired by her and maybe will do a 1/2 marathon myself one day (after I can complete my first mile).

I also challenge you to check out The Burlison Family http://burlisonfamily.blogspot.com/ where you will read how Courtney did it with 3 little girls while daddy was away. I also want to mention The Seago Family http://seagofamily.blogspot.com/ where Stacey knows how to make life one big celebration. Last but not least, I love to visit in on Jillian at the http://greifenkamps.blogspot.com/ blogspot where they just had a party with 17 kids and some sweet friends of hers.

Most importantly, all these women love Jesus and it shows in their lives. They are passionate about Him. If you want evidence of HIM, it shows in their lives. They are an inspiration.

Back From No Where

2008-05-01T11:16:00.000-07:00

Hi again... I know it's been awhile and I wish that I had some valid excuse as to why I have just completely ignored my blog. But I don't have one. Maybe I have been uninspired. Usually, I go throughout my day and rewrite in my head what it would sound like in my blog. I just don't seem to be able to recreate a readable version of my life. ....am I making this more difficult than it really is?....

Happy Easter

2008-03-23T13:26:00.000-07:00

A Little Bit of Dis' and That

2008-03-17T18:52:00.000-07:00

Summer at swimming lessons

Easter fun day
Sno cones with our new friend Kate

Ready for Tot's in Motion

Embarrassing Moment # 1,340,321

2008-03-10T11:09:00.000-07:00

I have a lot of embarrassing moments. Most of the time if I would JUST KEEP MY BIG MOUTH SHUT and smile, people could just remember me as "one really happy girl"...... Well no.

And this one has to do with an OB/GYN. And, must I remind you I live on a very small island and this is the "town" doctor so I must see this doc again if I want all my woman parts to stay in working order. And even if I didn't go back, the odds of seeing him at a fine dining restaurant, the beach or maybe even at church are not all that high. And I am sure that he would recognize me even with my clothes on because of what came out of my mouth.

I told him that IT WAS MY PLEASURE. The two of us in a florescent lit room with my paper gown falling off, giving the awkward handshake, saying good bye and I told him that IT WAS MY PLEASURE. Why couldn't I have just did the smiling part and kept my mouth shut?

I mean which part was I referring to. The paper gown, the stirrups, the date of my last period, the actual exam itself? What was I thinking????????

Thanksgiving

2008-03-08T19:01:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know Easter is coming, not thanksgiving, but my friend Vicki http://thebbunch.blogspot.com/has challenged me to take part in her friends http://xboxwife.blogspot.com/2007/07/hostess-with-mostest.html challenge. The challenge is to find 10 things to be thankful for. I am blessed by an amazing God and it is my pleasure to do this.

1. I am thankful that God isn't finished with me yet
2. I am thankful that God has saved my marriage
3. I am thankful that God has saved me from myself
4. I am thankful for my 3 girls, no I don't want a boy, I REALLY LOVE IT just the way HE planned it
5. I am thankful for "my lot in life"
6. I am thankful that God has is all figured out so I don't have to
7. I am thankful for my "freedom" in Christ
8. I am thankful that I feel good
9. I am thankful for coffee (I view it as a spiritual enhancement to my quiet time with God :) )
10. I am thankful that He gives me wisdom when I ask

Happy 29th Honey!!!!

2008-02-28T18:57:00.000-08:00

Today is Davids 29th birthday. The girls and I threw him a Pirate Party because David is wild about Pirates. Well.... not exactly. It was just the easiest party to have as supplies are limited on the island. We went shopping afterschool everyday this week just to get the supplies to make his cake. Anyway, we loved having the chance to tell the "man" in the house how much we love and appreciate all that he does. Happy Birthday Honey!

Coffey Anderson Coming To Grand Cayman

2008-02-27T18:44:00.000-08:00

video of Coffey Anderson, American Idol finalist

http://www.church.ky/images/Coffey%20promotion%201.wmv

Has Anyone Noticed???

2008-02-27T10:43:00.000-08:00

There has been 60 earthquakes with a magnitude of 5.0 or higher THIS YEAR. I know it's weird but check out this website http://neic.usgs.gov/neis/qed/ and compare this year's activity with last years. Or better yet, compare this decade with the 90's.

Does anyone else find it interesting that Jesus himself described these as "birth pangs" before his return?

Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. Matthew 24:7

Cayman Lizards

2008-02-23T17:34:00.000-08:00

Did you miss me????

2008-02-18T17:22:00.000-08:00

So, I feel the need to explain where I have been and what I have been doing the last few weeks just in case you keep checking my blog for some juicy gossip. I'm actually glad I don't have any. If I did, I would have to struggle in the dilemma if I should share and fill you in and embellish the details or keep a tight rein on my tounge. Which I don't really do all that well. But I am getting better due to the fact that I REALLY hate having to confess to God that YES I failed to use self control AGAIN!!!! Anyway.... was that too much information?

I will just tell you what I have done the past few weeks. I did manage to make it back to the states with my "man" (I stole that from Stacey) for about a week. I tagged along with him on business and stayed in Dallas for a night (AT THE MALL!!), Denver for a night and then a couple nights in OKC. There is just something so relaxing about staying in hotel rooms with no kids and getting to leave wet towels on the floor. Anyway, the bonus was that my girls all got sick while I was gone and they were all better by the time I got home. Yes, I had some mom guilt but they were in good hands (she got sick also) and I returned home feeling great.

The day after we returned home we moved into a ground floor condo unit. WHICH I LOVE!!!

We were able to move in most of our "stuff" and the girls unpacked their toys and we set up their rooms. I'm not really a "stuff" person but I have really enjoyed having my pictures out, and creating a little bit of a home. David had to leave town again so I took the next 4 days and organized everything. It was nice to have a deadline.

THEN, my mom, her parents and my dad's mom came to visit. What a sweet time. I loved showing them around and giving them a taste of "The Ritz". The girls enjoyed them and we had a valentines day party cookout.

So, that brings me to today. I think that brings me back to normal. I am still going to boot camp at 5:30 in the morning. I am getting stronger and I can run 1 lap around the tennis court but I have gained 6lbs. Yes, I know it's muscle, and I'm losing inches blah, blah blah. I just work to hard to have gained weight. It's called bootcamp for a reason. I must have done 100 push-ups this morning and somewhere around 200 crunches. That's with dips and running in between.

Oh, before I forget. my sweet girls have made me laugh so much lateley that I wanted to share.

Olivia wrote a book about America. We have been living in Cayman now for so long that I think she is grasping the cultural differences and wants to return to her roots and write a story. Here are some excerpts.

American money is green, but Cayman money is blue.

These are some of our famous presidents. Lincoln and George Washington.

A lot of people in America believe that people come from monkeys.

Now I wish I could show you how she has illustrated this. First she has a picture of a monkey (that looks more like a satchsquash), then the next is still a similair looking figure but now he is wearing a t-shirt, the next has pants on and the next grows hands and feet. Finally, the last figure is fully clothed with hands and feet. Leave it to her to expose how ridiclous evolution really is.

The next page, has an American flag, explains what language we speak, then finally she sums up why other people in the world dislike Americans.

America is the richest place on earth. So other people, not in America, are jealous because we have more money.

WHATTT??????????

Now the picture she drew for this one is priceless as well. First we have two figures. On one side of the page we have a smiling (American) who is surrounded by LOTS of gold coins. On the left side we have another (non-American) crossing his arms with a frown on his face surrounded by only a few coins.

Yes, folks the decision to raise her outside the US is paying off.

Oh, and Summer informed me that she can spell elephant.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P...

Did you mean alphabet?

I'll explain later....

2008-02-15T18:18:00.000-08:00

Trip To The Turtle Farm

2008-01-22T13:40:00.000-08:00

Stingray's Attack Girl From Montana

2008-01-22T09:57:00.000-08:00

Our sweet friends Brady and Vicki left their 5 little ones in Montana to visit us for a long weekend. What a JOY it was to have them. We soaked up the sun, ate some great food, had long talks trying to "figure out God", tried to "fast dance" (we never did) and got in the water with some KILLER stingrays. What a thrill! Okay, so they didn't exactly attack us, but they just surround you in a frenzy and kind of jump up on you. Vicki in her sweetest voice was trying to calm them down and explained to them we didn't have anymore food. I just laughed and screamed and then offered to go back to the boat and take pictures. We were like little kids. Later, we took a boat ride out to the barrier reef and did some snorkeling and stopped by the other side of the island in Kiabo. The weather was beautiful but a storm followed us in so we headed to the HOT tub where we let the cool rain water rinse off all the salt from the ocean. It was surreal. We have never enjoyed Grand Cayman so much. It was wonderful.

Check out Vicki's blog at http://thebbunch.blogspot.com/

Know any good bible studies

2008-01-16T17:01:00.000-08:00

I know I have some good friends out there that have been in many bible studies. I currently am doing Daniel with a small group of girls and we will be done in 3 weeks. I will admit I am much smarter because of it and my eyes have been opened to God's plan for Israel and much about God's character and where we are on his watch. However, this time I am looking to give my brain a little break and would love to do a study for the heart. Any suggestions? I am thinking about "Believing God" but would love to hear from you all. Thanks for your help.

No Legs, No Arms, No Worries

2008-01-09T08:19:00.001-08:00

Watch how God's glory is revealed in the man

Logan, the Sky Angel Cowboy

2008-01-08T18:34:00.001-08:00

This is a phone call made to KSBJ (A Houston radio station I use to listen to) from a 13 year old boy from Nebraska. What an amazing young man.

Boot Camp

2008-01-08T10:14:00.000-08:00

I promise that is NOT a pregnancy announcement for a little boy. I actually joined a exercise "Boot Camp". Ahhhhhhhhh! It is so not fun. It's at 5:30 in the morning and I run under the stars. I do like exercising in the dark. (less accountability that way :)) Anyway, I could use the discipline and the added benefits of losing a couple pounds (OR the freedom to continue to STUFF my face) On that note, I would like to make mention of a website that my sister in law shared with me. http://allrecipes.com I have never been one to meal plan or make a shopping list and as a result we eat out 3-4 times a week. Allrecipies has thousands of recipes, BUT the part I like best is that you can browse the recipes, file them in your recipe box and it makes a shopping list with the recipes you pick for the week. Brilliant!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T13:14:00.000-08:00

Well, we brought in The New Year on Seven Mile beach in Grand Cayman. David and I, a few friends and a bottle of champange. It was amazing, no one really knew what time it was so we got to count down 3 or 4 times and watch all the random fireworks shower the boats anchored out at sea. Olivia went to her own New Years party where she did a sundae scavenger hunt and her own mini countdown (at 10:00). I hope to spend the next few days reflecting. Honestly, I have been going at a pace faster than I like these last few months. I am going to "Be still and know HE is God" Happy 2008! That's 2008 people! I can't believe it.

2008-01-02T13:06:00.000-08:00

Trapped behine presents at Nana's house
We spent a few nights with Davids grandparents in Ocala. The girls got so dirty playing with their cousins. So much room to roam. It was wonderful!

2008-01-02T12:54:00.000-08:00

My sister's little girl Zoe at 9 weeks
Olivia and her cousins at my mom's house in Mount Dora.
Olivia is a little monkey
Can you believe all these GIRLS!
My sister Barbra and her little girl Julia.

A pilot friend flew us to Florida before Christmas, he was great and allowed Anabelle to take over for a little while.

Butterfly farm near my mom's house.

santa

2007-12-17T10:55:00.001-08:00

Summer and Anabelle at x-mas Party

2007-12-17T10:54:00.001-08:00

Olivia's 7th Birthday

2007-12-17T10:26:00.000-08:00

Christmas Party

2007-12-17T10:24:00.001-08:00

2007-12-17T10:11:00.000-08:00

Cayman Classic

2007-12-17T08:57:00.000-08:00

Jackie with Bill and Guliana Rancic (from E news and the Apprentice
Great pic of Kelsey
The one who made it all happen (Brooke) and her totally awesome boyfriend Rennie
Kelsey with Mary Lyn Rajskub (from 24)

Our "Friday Night Whites party"

David and I with Frankie Munitz (the boy from Malcolm in the Middle)
Alan Thicke and his wife
David and I at "The Tennis Ball"
Chris Issak performed that night

tiny turtle

2007-12-17T08:42:00.001-08:00

Christmas in Cayman

2007-12-17T08:36:00.000-08:00

New Bedtime hours

2007-12-06T00:33:00.000-08:00

My new bedtime hours are up at 5 am and going to bed around 12:30 or so. For those of you who know me well, you will think that I am lying. The truth is, I start my day with Jesus and HE has been giving me strength ALL DAY LONG. I haven't been tired, I am a little stressed, but I am amazed during times like these how much I am aware of HIS holy spirit working in me. Anyway, I miss blogging and being in touch. A few more days and then I will get back. Please pray for Anabelle, she had a slight temp last night.

Cayman Classic

2007-11-25T10:46:00.000-08:00

See what I am helping David with.

http://caymanclassic.com

I'm Busy

2007-11-21T19:02:00.000-08:00

I decided to do something insane and "go back to work". It's only for the next few weeks to help David with a charity tennis event weekend he is planning but I was not prepared how stressed I would be. I honestly don't know how working moms do it. My highest respect for them. Anyway, I have been getting up at 5 and dropping in bed at 10 and going all day long. I just wanted to let you all know if case you missed me. :)

Dirty Dancing UK - Julia and James First Dance

2007-11-18T10:04:00.001-08:00

Half way through Daniel

2007-11-14T18:49:00.001-08:00

I wanted to share with you my Tuesday morning bible study group. We have reached the halfway point in the Beth Moore study of the book of Daniel. What a sweet bunch of women. We come from all over the world and it's a thrill to study God's word with these girls. Anyway, here are a few pics. Enjoy!

I WON SOMETHING!

2007-11-14T18:12:00.001-08:00

My sweet friend Jeanine, ( you can visit her at http://www.realroots.blogspot.com/) has nominated me for an award.

I won something. But this is just not something... this is really an honor to be thought of in this way.

Mathetes is the Greek word for disciple, and the role of the disciple (per the Great Commission) it to make more disciples. . Mathetes is the Greek word for disciple, and the role of the disciple (per the Great Commission) it to make more disciples. The award recognizes other bloggers for acting in the role of a disciple of Christ.

In the spirit of this award, the rules are simple. Winners of this award must pick five other "disciples" to pass it on to. As you pass it on, I just ask that you mention and provide links for (1)this post as the originator of the award (Dan King of management by God), (2) the person that awarded it to you, and then (3) name and sites of the five that you believe are fulfilling the role of a disciple of Christ.

So here here are my top 2... ( I am still new to blogging, so I don't have exactly 5 yet)

and somebody please tell me how I can post a link up without have to type the whole web address.

First, because she is on my mind from a refreshing visit, my friend Bobbie. ( http://discoveringdestiny.blogspot.com/) I met her in my short time in Naples. Her husband Greg and her moved from Ohio to Naples to start Destiny church. They knew zero people when they came down. They just knew God called them to do this. The four of us were instant friends and they have had the greatest impact on me with my walk with God. Oh, and did I mention they have started orphanages in Haiti and in India. What a blessing!

Second, I have a new friend Natishia ( http://natishawindow.blogspot.com/ ). She just moved from South Africa to Cayman to stay with her sister. She is a pastor and SOLD OUT to God. She has a compassion for people that I have never seen anything like. I truly believe she is able to see people as God sees them. Oh, and she is a walking bible reference.

What's A Pirates Favorite Letter? RRRRRRRRRRR

2007-11-09T09:49:00.000-08:00

Well, we are celebrating Pirates Week this week in Grand Cayman. I don't know much about it (I do know that Grand Cayman was a stopping point for pirates) so I will have to read up on it. I didn't think it was a big deal until I found myself scrambling around for pirate outfits and the little ones came home with their faces painted AGAIN! Anyway, it's an entire week and they have BIG things planned each day. I will keep you posted.

2007-11-04T18:11:00.000-08:00

90 Days With The One and Only

2007-11-02T18:09:00.000-07:00

So I wanted to share a little God "adventure" that I am on... or I'm starting... or who knows but I am excited for whats ahead. I have a confession. I don't know Jesus like I should. I mean I KNOW Jesus, but I think I have a more childlike version of HIM in my head. I mostly identify with God when I pray and I have a fondness for HIS attributes. Secondly, I have always felt the Spirit of God as long as I have been a Christian, sometimes I'm more aware than others. However, JESUS is the reason why I can even have have access to God and HIS spirit. I know this in my head but I think I am really missing a part of the bigger picture. I mean who is JESUS? He said so many peculiar things? Why were so many offended by HIM? How did he love? He was all God yet all human. Don't get me wrong I know the basics and I believe the basics are the most important thing. Jesus died on the cross to pay for our sins. But, I am at a place where I want to know HIM more. It's funny, my walk with God has always been God showing me things and me responding. I would of thought that this would of been one of the first things HE would of pressed upon me. Anyway, I just started a book called 90 days with the One and Only. I'm excited, I may not finish it 90 days but I figure it's something I will be learning the rest of my life.

2007-10-31T18:46:00.000-07:00

Next Best Thing...

2007-10-31T18:12:00.000-07:00

I'm back, I'm back... We just returned from a week long vacation from Orlando with my family. Just the girls and I went and GUESS WHAT? My sister had her baby while we were there. She wasn't due for another 4 weeks but you know I was praying and praying that she would and God has blessed me with the desires of my heart. My sister on the other hand could of held out a few more weeks as she has been going NON-STOP her whole pregnancy and hasn't had time to nest or really get ready (her pregnancy calender was on week 28) Anyway, my mom and I cleaned her house for 2 whole days and organized the piles of baby shower gifts. We cleaned out closets, moved furniture. decorated and cooked. We got it ready to welcome the most precious little girl home. Zoe Alexis. She is the next best thing to me having another little girl. They are an awesome family and I PROMISE LITTLE ZOE DOES NOT CRY. Well, here are some pictures of my trip. We really enjoyed ourselves. This is the first time all my family has been together in a long time. My brother and his wife drove up with there little girl Julia and my younger brother Brandon is back in town before he begins work in Jacksonville. It simply was a special week for me.

At the risk of sounding crazy...

2007-10-18T18:55:00.000-07:00

So I have started a new blog. It not like this blog at all. I have decided to jot down some ramblings and some interesting articles I have organized in my study of eschatology. (end time events) It's from a biblical perspective and I try to arrange what it has to say about what the last days on earth will be like. Some will view this as absolutely crazy. So in my search for truth, here I am, taking the risk of sounding crazy.

http://signsoftheendage.blogspot.com/

Beth Moore's Hairbrush Experience

2007-10-17T18:13:00.000-07:00

*HAIRBRUSH EXPERIENCE OF BETH MOORE AT THE AIRPORT*> > On April 20, 2005, at the Airport in Knoxville, waiting to board the plane,> I had the Bible on my lap and was very intent upon what I was doing. I'd> had a marvelous morning with the Lord. I say this because I want to tell> you it is a scary thing to have the Spirit of God really working in you.> You could end up doing some things you never would have done otherwise.> Life in the Spirit can be dangerous for a thousand reasons not the least of> which is your ego.> > I tried to keep from staring, but he was such a strange sight. Humped over> in a wheelchair, he was skin and bones, dressed in clothes that obviously> fit when he was at least twenty pounds heavier. His knees protruded from> his trousers, and his shoulders looked like the coat hanger was still in his> shirt. His hands looked like tangled masses of veins and bones. The> strangest part of him was his hair and nails. Stringy, gray hair hung well> over his shoulders and down part of his back. His fingernails were long,> clean but strangely out of place on an old man.> > I looked down at my Bible as fast as I could, discomfort burning my face. As> I tried to imagine what his story might have been, I found myself wondering> if I'd just had a Howard Hughes sighting. Then, I remembered that he was> dead. So this man in the airport...an impersonator maybe? Was a camera on> us somewhere? There I sat; trying to concentrate on the Word to keep from> being concerned about a thin slice of humanity served on a wheelchair only a> few seats from me. All the while, my heart was growing more and more> overwhelmed with a feeling for him.> > Let's admit it. Curiosity is a heap more comfortable than true concern,and> suddenly I was awash with aching emotion for this bizarre-looking old> man.I had walked with God long enough to see the handwriting on the> wall.> I've learned that when I begin to feel what God feels, something so contrary> to my natural feelings, something dramatic is bound to happen. And it may be> embarrassing.> > I immediately began to resist because I could feel God working on my spirit> and I started arguing with God in my mind. "Oh, no, God, please, no." I> looked up at the ceiling as if I could stare straight through it into heaven> and said, "Don't make me witness to this man. Not right here and now.> Please. I'll do anything. Put me on the same plane, but don't make me get> up here and witness to this man in front of this gawking audience. Please,> Lord!"> > There I sat in the blue vinyl chair begging His Highness, "Please don't make> me witness to this man. Not now. I'll do it on the plane."> Then I heard it... "I don't want you to witness to him. I want you to> brush his hair." The words were so clear, my heart leapt into my throat, and> my thoughts spun like a top. Do I witness to the man or brush his hair?> > No-brainier. I looked straight back up at the ceiling and said, "God,as I> live and breathe, I want you to know I am ready to witness to this man. I'm> on this Lord. I'm your girl! You've never seen a woman witness to a man> faster in your life. What difference does it make if his hair is a mess if> he is not redeemed? I am going to witness to this man."> > Again as clearly as I've ever heard an audible word, God seemed to write> this statement across the wall of> my mind. "That is not what I said, Beth. I don't want you to witness to> him. I want you to go brush his hair."> > I looked up at God and quipped, "I don't have a hairbrush. It's in my> suitcase on the plane. How am I supposed to brush his hair without a> hairbrush?" God was so insistent that I almost involuntarily began to walk> toward him as these thoughts came to me from God's word: "I will thoroughly> furnish you unto all good works." (2 Timothy 3:17)> > I stumbled over to the wheelchair thinking I could use one myself. Even as I> retell this story, my pulse quickens and I feel those same butterflies. I> knelt down in front of the man and asked as demurely as possible, "Sir, may> I have the pleasure of brushing your hair?"> He looked back at me and said, "What did you say?"> > "May I have the pleasure of brushing your hair?"> > To which he responded in volume ten, "Little lady, if you expect me to hear> you, you're going to have to talk louder than that."> > At this point, I took a deep breath and blurted out, "SIR, MAY I HAVE THE> PLEASURE OF BRUSHING YOUR HAIR?"> At which point every eye in the place darted right at me. I was the only> thing in the room looking more peculiar than old Mr. Longlocks. Face crimson> and forehead breaking out in a sweat, I watched him look up at me with> absolute shock on his face, and say, "If you really want to."> > Are you kidding? Of course I didn't want to. But God didn't seem interested> in my personal preference right about then. He pressed on my heart until I> could utter the words, "Yes, sir, I would be pleased. But I have one little> problem. I don't have a hairbrush."> > "I have one in my bag, " he responded.> > I went around to the back of that wheelchair, and I got on my hands and> knees and unzipped the stranger's old carry-on, hardly believing what I was> doing. I stood up and started brushing the old man's hair. It> was perfectly clean, but it was tangled and matted. I don't do many things> well, but must admit I've had notable experience untangling knotted hair,> mothering two little girls. Like I'd done with either Amanda or Melissa in> such a condition, I began brushing at the very bottom of the strands,> remembering to take my time not to pull.> > A miraculous thing happened to me as I started brushing that old man's hair.> Everybody else in the room disappeared. There was no one alive for those> moments except that old man and me. I brushed and I brushed and I brushed> until every tangle was out of that hair.> > I know this sounds so strange, but I've never felt that kind of love for> another soul in my entire life. I believe with all my heart, I - for that> few minutes - felt a portion of the very love of God. That He had overtaken> my heart for a little while like someone renting a room and making Himself> at home for a short while. The emotions were so strong and so pure that I> knew they had to be God's.> > His hair was finally as soft and smooth as an infant's. I slipped the brush> back in the bag and went around the chair to face him. I got back down on my> knees, put my hands on his knees and said, "Sir, do you know my Jesus?"> > He said, "Yes, I do."> > Well, that figures, I thought.> > He explained, "I've known Him since I married my bride. She wouldn't marry> me until I got to know the Savior."> > He said, "You see, the problem is, I haven't seen my bride in months. I've> had open-heart surgery, and she's been too ill to come see me. I was> sitting here thinking to myself, what a mess I must be for my bride."> > Only God knows how often He allows us to be part of a divine moment when> we're completely unaware of the significance. This, on the other hand, was> one of those rare encounters when I knew God had intervened in> details only He could have known. It was a God moment, and I'll> never forget it.> > Our time came to board, and we were not on the same plane. I was deeply> ashamed of how I'd acted earlier and would have been so proud to have> accompanied him on that aircraft.> > I still had a few minutes, and as I gathered my things to board, the> airline hostess returned from the corridor, tears streaming down her cheeks.> She said, "That old man's sitting on the plane, sobbing. Why did you do> that? What made you do that?"> > I said, "Do you know Jesus? He can be the bossiest thing!"> > And we got to share.> > I learned something about God that day. He knows if you're exhausted,> you're hungry, you're serving in the wrong place or it is time to move on> but you feel too responsible to budge. He knows if you're hurting or> feeling rejected. He knows if you're sick or drowning under a wave of> temptation. Or He knows if you just need your hair brushed. He sees you as> an individual. Tell Him your need!> > I got on my own flight, sobs choking my throat, wondering how> many opportunities just like that one had I missed along the way. . all> because I didn't want people to think I was strange. God didn't send me to> that old man. He sent that old man to me.> > John 1:14 "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have> seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father,> full of grace and truth."> > Life shouldn't be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving> safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather, to skid in> broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly shouting, "Wow!> What a ride!> > Thank You, Lord!"> > Be Blessed!

2007-10-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

2007-10-13T19:15:00.000-07:00

Olivia's paintings were featured in a childrens art show this month. She actually did the artwork this past summer at The Turtle Farm camp. Anyway, I'm a proud momma so I thought I would share. I also want you to look closely at her bio. She states she likes to collect money from different places. She sounds like perhaps she has money from all over the world. No. What she means is mom's purse, the dryer, the kitchen counter and other unmentioned sources. I won't share with you the sum of all the money she has "collected" but OH MY!!! A new opportunity to grow as a parent.

Just Add Pastor

2007-10-11T08:15:00.000-07:00

A huge selling point of Grand Cayman was the 90 something chuches they have on the island. I thought it should be fairly easy to church shop. I never imagined that Sunday after Sunday we would load the kids up and bring them completlely underdressed (and by that I mean they didn't have their red velvet dresses on) into one Church after another. I never thought that I should pack the children lunches as church here is an all day event. I was secretly glad that David "made" us all leave after 3 hours of Church. Yes, these people love the LORD but my children need to eat people. So how happy I was to find Sunrise Community Church. They meet in the air-conditioning. have great worship music and the people are wonderful (and by that I mean they don't judge when I don't iron my girls clothes) They have been meeting for a little less than a year and I can really see Gods thumbprint all over it. There is one problem. There is no leadership. No pastor, no one to grow the church body in Christ. They go week to week watching dvd's and having guest speakers. It it usually a feel good message but nothing to really nourish one's spirit. I know God himself has set this up so I believe that HE has someone in mind. If any of you know of a Pastor who might be interested please email me. I would love to watch this thing explode. It's literally is a situation where you "just add pastor"

Will Clap For Food...

2007-10-07T14:50:00.000-07:00

That's what I did last night. I applauded food. David and I attended the annual Caribbean Rundown. http://www.caymangoodtaste.com/images/lib/promotions/ritz/rundown%20schedule%20of%20events.pdf In short it was a 5 course dinner hosted by world famous chef Eric Ripert. It was a beautiful event and people flew in from all over the world to attend it. I decided to go because I was hungry. I know, I know all you "foodies" out there are disgusted by me and my lack of um..... appreciation for something like this. Of course I mock all things I don't understand so last night brought out the best of my sarcastic abilities. Before each course there was a presentation where we all were to bow to each plate of food before we allowed it to touch our lips. Don't get me wrong it was real yummy! I just, you know... wanted to eat. We actually clapped over it. Yeah... food. Of course, I'm sure we were clapping for the one who gave birth to the food, Eric Ripert. I suppose that makes a little more sense. Anyway, kidding aside it was fun to be part of it. I promise I remained proper throughout the whole night as a courtesy to my marriage. This is after all what David does. He markets and sells luxury. People were buying it up last night.

Belts by Olivia

2007-10-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

As you can see our friends Brooke, Kelsey and Rennnie from UNIT 102 are sporting fashion belts made by Olivia. Details like beads, flowers and string all add to the original design. All belts are hand crafted in the Cayman Islands from all natural materials.

New and Improved

2007-10-06T07:29:00.000-07:00

You all may raise your expectations of me from now on. I now have a computer keyboard with all the keys. (see why this is a big deal http://campcayman.blogspot.com/2007/08/why-i-sometimes-miss-spell-words.html ) All 26 letters. all punctuation and A SPACE BAR! Everything I need to make a sentence. I'm so inspired!

How do you remove face paint from 600 thread count sheets ?

2007-10-05T11:16:00.002-07:00

This is how I picked up my babies from gymnastic preschool this morning. Yes, they are adorable and enjoy very much being a bunny (Summer) and a butterfly (Anabelle) but where is Miss Karen (their teacher) to scrub the paint out of the girls 600 thread count sheets. I thought Miss Karen was busy turning my girls into little Mary Lou Retten's. You know burning the little one's energy so mom could have an easy afternoon. Well, I won't be. As soon as I am done reading the entire internet (because that's what I do) I will be figuring out a way to remove the lovely black bunny wiskers and colorful butterfly wings out of Minister Mckeeva Bush's 600 thread count sheets. Of course I could have washed it off before their naps but really I think bathing period is not even an option. Summer has made it clear that she won't even be using napkins to wipe her face.

A mothers life

2007-10-05T11:16:00.001-07:00

I've Been Tagged

2007-10-02T09:58:00.000-07:00

So one of my blogging friends (well we were friends before we blogged) has tagged me to do this thing. If I understand it correctly this is what it is.

10 years ago...
I had a loser (I'm sorry but HE WAS) boyfriend that I had been dating for 5 years and was destined to live in a trailer park (not that ANYTHING is wrong with living in a trailer park) smoking pot (I PROMISE it gets better)

5 years ago...
I was married to David for 3 years (I still am, in case you thought it REALLY didn't get better) and just moved to Hawaii. Olivia was 2 and it turned out to be a really life changing place. God revealed himself to me. I have never been the same since.

1 year ago...
We had just moved to Naples, Florida from Galveston Texas. We moved into a rental house and I swore that I would never move again.

Yesterday...
I hung out with my friend Tess in Grand Cayman (yes, I moved again) Olivia had gymnastics and I cooked hamburgers on a disposable grill for dinner.

Snacks I enjoy...
sweets, especially chocolate!

What would I do with a $100,000,000...
I am not sure exactly but I'm sure it would include a beautiful piece of property in the middle of nowhere and a jet for my husband (and for me to travel back and forth to the middle of nowhere)

Location I would run to...
I don't like to run :)

Bad habits I have...
Not thinking before I say things and thinking way too much before I say things. Also, not making any sense when I do say things. Maybe I should just keep my mouth shut.

Things I like...
Jesus, David, my girls (the fact that they are all girls) bible study, the study of eschatology, Jewish people, Grand Cayman.

Biggest Joy of the Momment...
Having a group of women in my home each week to study God's word

MY ICE CREAM POOL PARTY

2007-10-02T09:28:00.000-07:00

2007-10-01T18:54:00.000-07:00

Ice cream Pool Party

2007-10-01T18:30:00.000-07:00

I'm okay with not being "mother of the year"

2007-09-29T07:05:00.000-07:00

My baby turned 2 years this week. We are going to celebrate with an icecream pool party on Sunday (I will post pics), So that was the excuse I gave when we left Monday morning (her actual birthday) and was greeted by the valet and concierge with a "HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANABELLE". I turned pale. I completely forgot. Of course, the Ritz employees are paid to be nice and remember my childrens important dates and celebrate all the teeth we lose and watch all the gymnastic moves they can do on the luggage cart. So a little embarrassed I explained the ice cream pool party we are going to have. I suppose they thought I needed a little help because when we returned home that day I had an in room dining cart with a chocolate birthday cake and a kitty cat card signed by the whole staff. So you know what I did, I stuck a candle in it and sang happy birthday.

8 Year Anniversary

2007-09-25T19:58:00.000-07:00

Today David and I are celebrating our 8 year anniversary. 8 YEARS! We have lived a lifetime in that time. Little did I know what our lives would be like. I did see adventure when I married David, however, I had no idea how much I would enjoy the ride. I knew that when I met him I would follow him anywhere. And that's a good thing since we have lived in 8 different homes across 3 different states and now another country. We have been shaped individually but more importantly in our marriage, at every new turn. I am so blessed by God to have been given the gift of David. He is my support, my friend, my confidence, my laughter, my covering and well I'm blushing but my lover. He was hand picked by God as a gift not only to enjoy myself more on this earth but to shape me and mold me to be more like Jesus. How do you place value on that? What is that worth? Yet, he is the priceless gift that God created just for me. He is a one of a kind creation and I get to keep him. Did I start off 8 years ago seeing all this? Of course not, I hadn't a clue. But I learned that marriage is actually God's idea and well, he knows how it it's suppose to work. And you know what, I listened to God. And you know something else HE was right.

So I was trying to download this song today but couldn't so I will write the lyrics. I will try to get the song up

Something brought you to my mind today I thought about the funny ways you make me laugh And yet I feel like it's okay to cry with you Something about just being with you When I leave I feel like I've been near God And that's the way it ought to be...

CHORUS: 'Cause you've been more than a friend to me You fight off my enemies 'Cause you've spoken the Truth over my life And you'll never know what it means to me Just to know you've been on your knees for me Oh, you have blessed my life More than you'll ever know, yeah, yeah, yeah More than you'll ever know, yeah, yeah, yeah

You had faith, when I had none You prayed God would bring me a brand new song When I didn't think I could find the strength to sing And all the while I'm hoping that I'll Do the kind of praying for you that you've done for me And that's the way it ought to be...
You have carried me You have taken upon a bruden that wasn't your own And may the blessing return to you A hundredfold, oh yeah... A hundredfold, oh yeah...

My Fathers Love written by my sister Kelllie

2007-09-22T16:18:00.000-07:00

MY FATHERS LOVE
Unlike most of my friends I had to be home by six o’clock for dinner every night. We would dreadfully have to sit together and talk to my parents and three other siblings about our day. Unlike most of my friends I had rules. Rules of where I could go , who I could hang out with, and what I was allowed to wear. Unlike most of my friends life for me as I knew it was unfair. It took many rebellious and angry years of misunderstanding why my strict dad made my life so unfair. These days I wish I could come home to a free home cooked meal every night and spend time with my family. I now realize why its unsafe to roam the dark streets behind the bowling alley in stripper like clothing with older kids who smoke pot. Now I finally realize that it was really my friends whose lives weren’t fair. I realize that their dads didn’t have a love like my fathers love. As rebellious as I was and angry about the many world ending groundings, I never doubted once how much my dad loved me. My fathers love was disciplining, persistent, and priceless.
As I mentioned earlier my dad strongly believed in the disciplining department in parenting. Ever since I turned thirteen my life long dream was to turn twenty one. Well, dreaming wasn’t enough for me so I started drinking, smoking, and dating older guys.
One specific memory I have was on Valentines day my eighth grade year. My boyfriend was waiting for me at my friend Heathers house down the street. That was the hang out, because her mom was never home and we could do anything that we wanted. All dressed up looking almost twenty one I slid open the sliding glass door to the shaded backyard where my dad spent most of this time writing his book. With a pleading smile I asked if I could go the Heathers house. I was sent upstairs to wash as he called it, the paint off my face. Afterwards I came back down to ask again and somehow all the eye makeup didn’t seem to get completely removed, and lets just say I didn’t see my boyfriend that Valentines day.
My fathers love was not only disciplining but very persistent. Ever since I could remember my dad would come home peek in my room to see if I were sleeping. Either way when I heard him coming I would quickly close my eyes and pretend I was. He would come by my bedside to say a prayer that I so desperately needed, kiss my forehead, and close the door.
Another time my dad showed his persistence was at fifteen when my parents decided to get a divorce. At that selfish time of my life I remember thinking I would get away with more and maybe even get spoiled like my other friends. Us kids took turns visiting him in his many different places of living but he still made it to my moms house a few times a week to cook the family a big dinner just as he always had. Even when my mom got a new boyfriend my persistent dad invited him too.
Soon after my parents divorced my dad started to get sick. His sickness led him to the care of a nursing home close to my moms house. A striking memory of his persistence was when he prepared us a gourmet feast from the grill of the nursing home. Around a white plastic table in the courtyard my brother and I ate steamed crab legs, angel hair pasta, and of course fresh loaf of bread from the Publix bakery. That was actually the last meal that my dad cooked for us. He was so persistent that not just divorce but even sickness didn’t stop him from showing us his love; which at those times were through his cooking.
Growing up my fathers love as I remember was very disciplining and very persistent, but now its priceless. I realize that true love doesn’t have a price tag on it. Its not about selfishness, its about giving all you have. Before my dad got sick he sent me a package of clothing. At the time that was the way to my heart. He also bought me this one particular striped sweater made out of wool from a high end store in upper class Winter Park. I loved that sweater so much and that’s what I once thought love was.
The last gift my dad gave me was priceless. It was true love. Today I hold it dear to me, closer by my heart than any fancy sweater. Bed sick with a disease he made it to my seventeenth birthday party. That year for my birthday my present was a poem that he wrote for me which he read aloud. It was a humorous poem about me and expressed the type of relationship we had. That birthday I didn’t know how valuable that poem would mean to me someday. But when I read it, it reminds me of my fathers love. Its priceless!
Later that year my dad was escorted by helicopter to a specialized hospital in Tampa. His life on earth started to take him quickly. One of my last visits to the Tampa hospital to see my paralyzed machine operated dad; he signaled the nurse not to let me come back to see him. It was hard to accept but I told the nurse to tell him that I loved him. The last time my dad told me that he loved me was with two eye blinks which meant yes when the nurse asked If he wanted to say I love you too.

Another week flying by

2007-09-21T15:39:00.000-07:00

Olivias lost tooth

2007-09-21T15:34:00.000-07:00

2007-09-15T12:00:00.001-07:00

101 Ways To Sell A Coconut

2007-09-15T10:49:00.000-07:00

The girls and I set out this morning in search of some fresh produce. Everything in the grocery store has been shipped in, so I thought we would check out the local farmers market. It's a wonderful idea if I needed coconut. Not exactly what I was hoping for. I don't mind coconut. I happen to even like coconut. I just was left wondering how many Rachel Ray receipes I could make this week with coconut. So to nurse my disappointment I decided to buy a coconut goodie. I have no idea what it's called but it kind of looked like some sort of brittle with chunks of coconut in it. I was kinda excited about it as I had given up on scones. Well, it was disgusting. It was made with bacon fat or something and kinda of sweet. I couldn't tell. I don't know, I almost threw up. Oh, well the girls enjoyed their coconut candycanes and loved rolling the windows down on the ride home, blasting the trac HOT HOT HOT off of the steel drum CD we purchased.

Do scones make you fat?

2007-09-14T15:46:00.000-07:00

Do scones make you fat? I was just wondering. Since I have eaten about 10 of them in the last 24 hours. I have just discovered them ( I think I can thank the Brits) and they are divine. Once they are gone I can't buy anymore. Unless, of course it's my turn to host playgroup again. Which I did today. Picture this. About 10 moms pulling up to the Ritz Carlton for a playday. I am sure the concierge have never seen anything like it. One mom after another, handing her keys over to the valet after pulling kids, diaper bags and toys out of their cheerio covered cars. (I made the cheerio part up but I'm confident it's true) They all rode the "lift" up to #201. So each came knocking one after another. I greeted each one at the door to welcome them into Honorable Mckeeva Bush's personal condo. Yes, for those who don't know, we are renting our condo from the former leader of The Cayman Islands. I am sure that he has no clue that his "renters" have children, let alone hosts a playgroup at his condo. And I am sure of this, because of all the crystal vases and china bowls with the Queen covering every surface. (I have now packed them away) You also have to wonder where he bought the lions and marble statue in our dining room . But anyway, I think the moms were amused and hopefully felt like somehow they could relax just a bit while the children dropped goldfish crackers and cheesesticks all over the white upholstered dining chairs. Maybe I can blame the 2 broken patio chairs, the broken dvd players (2), the blue marker stain on the marble floor and the broken door (well actually the door is broken off) of the tv console on my guests. I suppose I would have to host a few more times to get away with that.

Olivias second day of school

2007-09-07T11:04:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, most moms can manage taking a picture on their childrens first day of school but to be truthful, I am n0t ready for school to start.

Olivia is starting YEAR 2. She is going to Cayman Prep and they use the English system. I guess I will have to brush up on my American History if she is ever going to learn it. Olivia was a little timid going. It's much larger than the school she is used to, so you know, she can't rule it, like she likes to do. She will be fine. She was a bit miffed when the students had to sweep the floor after lunch. In her words, "we had to clean up stuff that wasn't even our mess". I think perhaps this school will be good for her.

Stingray City

2007-09-06T13:29:00.000-07:00

Last day of company

2007-09-06T13:13:00.000-07:00

I just dropped off my sister and her husband at the airport. My cousins left earlier this morning. What a great time we had. We stayed busy and really enjoyed one another. I have a feeling that we will have lots of visitors.

2007-09-05T15:41:00.000-07:00

2007-09-04T12:13:00.000-07:00

Family In Town

2007-09-02T16:03:00.000-07:00

Another night out eating with my sister Kellie and her husband Omar, also, my cousins Rachel and Jill. And way over to the right is David. (he likes his space)

Family In Town

2007-09-02T15:50:00.000-07:00

My preggie sister, she is going to kill me for posting this. She looks great carrying little baby Zoe.
On our way out to dinner, in style.
Great dinner at The Wharf
Dinner includes live Tarpon Feeding
Late night walk in the water

2007-08-29T12:06:00.000-07:00

We spent the morning at gymnastics. Cayman has a great gym here and the kids have a blast. I think I am going to let Summer go to gymnastics preschool a few mornings a week. Anabelle is getting a bit bold, I love watching the kids confidence grow on their face. You can tell the exact second they are going to go for it. Well, unless you are Olivia, who takes a simple balance beam exercise to the extreme. I knew when the teacher was explaining that they were going to take pool noodles and try to knock each other off the balance beam that she had all the "confidence" she needed to knock the other girl clear off in seconds. It got so bad that she could only compete with the teacher, and even then she went low and KICKED the teacher. She gets it from her dad.

2007-08-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

Anabelle and her new best friend Maisie. Well... they will be one day. I mean, as soon as Anabelle stops biting her. No kidding, Maisie is the most precious thing and Anabelle keeps chomping on her.

Our friend Grace

We spent the morning with our new friends at the beach park. My new friend Tess (she had 3 kids about the same age) has been an incredible friend to me. They moved here about 6 months ago from Australia. I forgot to snap a picture of her but here are some pics of our girls together. (she has a 3 year son, Will, who didn't make it into any of the pics)

Why I check my spelling

2007-08-28T12:45:00.000-07:00

Anabelle got her hands on my computer and tore all the keys off. If you look closely, olivia put some keys back on in the wrong places. Good thing I took 9th grade typing!

Butterfly Farm

2007-08-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

A girls day out to the local Butterfly farm. Butterflies everywhere even though they said they had about 1500 still put away. (I don't know where exactly) The owner was quite passionate about butterflies. He is going to help us get set up with our own butterfly garden when we buy a home.