Honesty: Mother's Day, Comfort Zones and the rest of life

Happy Mother's Day Mom!! You are the BESTEST Mom in the entire state of Oregon, Michigan--well all of the WORLD!!! I LOVE YOU!


My church service today was, probably like yours, focused on Mothers. The Pastor had 4 ladies up front--from the Grandma to the young Mom. He used the story of Hannah in I Samuel as the basis of his text, and then had the ladies respond from a mother's point of view. Interesting and insightful. I made it all the way through the service without tears until the last song...the lyrics so expressed my heart--I am nothing without You, Jesus. They focused on the truth that we want our lives to reflect Him, nothing of ourselves. As tears came down my cheeks a dear lady afterwards told me that tears are OK, they are good, they need to come out. Just yesterday when my Mom called to share with me about the fabulous and wonderful Mother-Daughter brunch at our church (that I wanted to be at with her but of course couldn't) we cried together at the realization of the miles of distance, but rejoiced in the fact that we are still very much connected in heart and spirit. Yesterday my Mom gave me the greatest gift: herself!

So, now onto comfort zones. What is a comfort zone? I suppose the simplest definition is: where we are comfortable. How/where is my comfort zone you ask? Well, I'm out of the ZONE!! Let me share:

1. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would miss my family so much. I have missed the closeness that comes from good, deep relationships that I have with my family. This distance has created a gap, a hole that I didn't anticipate would be so emotional, on so many different levels.

2. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that the ranch would bring out of my heart and soul the thoughts, feelings and reactions that have been tucked away for so long. Working with the staff, and spending time with those that come to the ranch--each aspect is forcing me to deal with emotions that I have buried--and some that I didn't know I had.

3. I didn't, in my wildest dreams think that I would feel so alone. I've been single/alone my adult life so...nothing different here than at home right? Wrong!! Loneliness has taken on a whole new perspective. Must I say it? I'm definitely more emotional.

4. I didn't realize how tough it would be to integrate into a different church. Or even be able to worship in a new church. Or be able to connect spiritually with the message spoken. To not have friends to greet, or friends to greet me. This foundational stability in my life of church, the body of Christ, God's Word preached and songs sung that honor and glorify Him---this anchor has been removed.

5. How about cultural differences of a 3 hour time zone difference when you want to pick up the phone to call someone? How about putting extra time in one's schedule to get gas--since you cannot pump your own gas in Oregon and you are at the mercy of the time schedule of the one who comes out to pump, takes the nozzle out of the tank when it is finished, goes inside to get your change (skip that one from now on--I'm using my credit card!) and waiting for the receipt. Or, how about Hershey Hugs costing a dollar more a bag than at home! How about a dozen eggs going for around $4.00? How about wearing layers of clothes since 4 seasons in one day is the norm and getting a sunburn to boot! The culture here is very laid back compared to West Michigan. Everything from dress to being event oriented more than time oriented.

6. In my previous place of employment, I was the one in charge, the one who made the decisions, the one who trained employees. It has all been reversed. Now, I have to ask what to do. How to do it. When to do it. I am totally inept around horses--I don't know their "language", what to expect, or even how to act around a horse. I am the "newbie" starting a "new job" with all new people, a new environment, with new job skills to be learned.

So, is life horrible and terrible? NO NO NO!!!!!!!!!!!!! But, what I have described is part of my life right now! It is where I am at. It seems to have hit hard the past two weeks. Being out of "my" zone means an intense challenge: who or what is my focus? Friday night as I listened to a CD from my home church I was reminded from my Pastor that our Christian life is a walk of faith. It is a life to grow in. A life where if I am stagnant, not maturing, then I had better check to see if I have a pulse, or more importantly, am I living a life of faith?

Yes, I have stepped out in faith to come to Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch. I know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that God called me here for this season. Does that help me see this as an adventure instead of a trial? Yes, because I trust Him 100%. Does it make the changes/challenges go away? No. So where is my focus? On me? On what I do or don't have? On what I need or want? If the answer is yes, I am NOT living by faith. If the answer of where my focus is this: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and he shall direct your paths" (Proverbs 3:5,6) then I can rest in knowing that my faith has, as the song writer put it, found a resting place.

My Faith Has Found a Resting Place

My faith has found a resting place, Not in device or creed; I trust the ever living One, His wounds for me shall plead.

Refrain:

I need no other argument, I need no other plea, It is enough that Jesus died, And that He died for me.

Enough for me that Jesus saves, This ends my fear and doubt; A sinful soul I come to Him, He’ll never cast me out.

Refrain

My heart is leaning on the Word, The written Word of God, Salvation by my Savior’s Name, Salvation through His blood.

Refrain

My great Physician heals the sick, The lost He came to save; For me His precious blood He shed, For me His life He gave.

Refrain

So, in these adventures, challenges, and changes I am seeing a different side of myself. I cannot remember a time when I have been so expressive with tears. Its kind of scary, kind of strange, kind of new territory for me. In the midst of it all, I am choosing to trust my Heavenly Father. I am choosing to lean on Him. I choose by faith to live out Proverbs 3:5,6.

One of the most fun days I had the past two weeks was a day when an 11yr old boy came to the ranch and it was his Birthday. There is a tradition at the ranch--anyone who has a birthday gets troughed. Literally, that means one gets thrown into the horses drinking trough clothes and all! John, as I will call him, didn't want to be troughed. Or, so he said with his lips. I perceived that he really did want to be troughed since it was his 4th year at the ranch and he had NEVER been troughed yet. In his defense, I will say, it was a bit nippy that day...but, hey the sun was out and there was a fire in the barn :-). After he picked out his horse that he wanted to ride for the day Brittany, myself and John began to paint his horse. Brittany and I tended to be a bit more creative in what we were drawing...until...John thought it would be funny to fling paint at me. HMM. So started the paint war :-). After his ride we went into the main barn and sang Happy Birthday to him, had some cheesecake, and then several of us grabbed him to trough him. The first time all he got wet was his legs, so, being the kind soul I am, I picked him up and dumped him back in! :-). All in all it was a great day of laughter, celebration and FUN!!

Just thought you would like to see a picture of my cowgirl hat with some blue Birthday paint still on it!

Another day a young gal around 12 came who is very used to getting her own way. This is the second time I have had a session time with her. She demonstrates this behavior with her challenging words and in her body language. She displays a toughness about her--which only is her protective shell for the inner person kept hidden underneath. As we were grooming the horse the conversation shifted to be a bit more personal. Her Grandma had died the week before and when I asked her about the funeral she shared with me the church she goes too. Immediately my heart cried out to Jesus--for she is involved in a cult that has stolen this girls identity. When she went to return the grooming bucket I prayed out loud to our Heavenly Father for protection for this dear girl who, because of her upbringing is blinded to who Jesus is and how much He loves her. This insight the Holy Spirit allowed me to see has given me a heart of compassion for this dear child. No longer do I struggle with her behavior, or how to talk to her, or how to be her friend. She is lost, and I pray that as she returns to the ranch each month she will come to see and know how much she is loved by Jesus and would be able to trust Him as her personal Savior. What matters is that she sees Him, and nothing of me. Please pray for her and those that will be her session leaders in the weeks to come.

The ranch has a horse called Little Bear. This horse is NOT little! In fact, if I remember correctly I can't see over his back! A pint sized 5 year old girl picked him out to be her horse. Yes, she could walk under him if she tried! This gentle giant allowed this youngster to groom him all the while giggling and laughing. A bench was brought out so she could at least get half his side! As she was riding bareback in the arena I asked her why she picked out Little Bear today. As she looked down to me with a huge smile on her face she said, "Because when I am on him, I can touch the sky!" Yes, with God, all things are possible--even touching the sky!

I am settled into my "new home" in the Barn :-). I am living with new hosts: John and Vickie. They have generously allowed me to stay in a very nice apartment they created in their barn. I am helping around their ranch by doing small chores, as well as taking care of their 5 horses, 2 dogs and 2 cats when they are away. The country air, wind stirring the trees, rain on the metal roof of the barn, and being ecstatically greeted by two dogs whenever I go outside--it is a balm to my soul and joy to my heart! Many many thanks again to Judy and Jerry for giving me a place to stay when I first arrived! God's provision for housing is a HUGE visible way I can see His hand guiding and leading me.

I do not have Internet access in my apartment, so I am adjusting by either visiting the local coffee shop, or the library. Both close before I leave work except the library stays open on Wednesday and Thursday until 8:00 p.m. They both have weekend hours that I can use as well. Your patience and understanding in waiting for me to reply to your e-mails is most appreciated.

Many thanks for all your prayers, letters, emails, packages and phone calls! I am grateful beyond words.

I wonder what surprises this week will hold? How about for you? Join me in this adventure of faith--we serve the same Awesome God!

Keep smilin' and lookin' to Jesus with me today! :-)

What's up you say?

HELLO to ALL!

I began writing this blog on Friday after work, and was too tired to finish it. My plan was to finish Saturday after work, but that didn't happen either! Sunday came, I went to church, then was invited out for the afternoon....SO, here it is Monday and off it goes to you. Thank you for your patience--I'm keeping busy that's for sure!

Exciting things are happening, God is at work, and I am beginning to feel a little more adjusted to the Oregon culture. Thank you to each one for your many prayers!


Friday:

What a blustery day today is! I thought Michigan weather changed if you waited--well central Oregon has it's corner on that market too! Here, it can be in the 20's at night and in the 80's plus during the day! Last week, for two days, I had all 4 seasons in one day! In the morning the sun was rising, the temperature was coming up nicely, then by mid morning the wind picked up, temperature dropped, it started spitting rain, and then it snowed, and hailed :-). Layers of clothes are the norm here--because when the sun goes behind the clouds it gets cold--but 10 minutes later when the sun is out, one sheds the outer jacket. Interesting!

So, what have I been up too? LOTS! I'll start with my days at the ranch, and then fill you in on the evenings and weekends since I last wrote.

My day at the ranch begins at 9:00 a.m. The mornings are designated for projects that need to be accomplished when people are not on the ranch. I have helped in the office with computer entry, worked with Sam and Jeff with ranch tasks like fixing the electrical fence, assembling or taking down temporary fencing, cleaning and organizing the tool shop, and running errands in town to get needed supplies. On Wednesday from 10:00 to 12:00 are my horse lessons!! I now know how to groom a horse, put on a saddle (well, I do need some reminders on that part still), learned some "horse language", word commands, body language, safety around horses, how to make a horse back up with my hands or a lead rope, and I practiced turning a figure 8 guiding my horse both with my feet and the reins. On Thursdays from 9:00 till when I finish, I get to DRIVE THE TRACTOR!!!! I have been promoted to drag the paddocks once a week!!! YEEEHHAAA!!!!! I am so GEEKED!! I will try to get someone soon to take a picture of me on the tractor! It's a John Deere that we attach a chain drag on the back to break up the horse manure clumps so they decompose and to make the paddocks look real spiffy! In the arena I can make circles :-) and in the main paddock I have many trees and low tree branches to duck and drive around. I've already smacked my head a few times.....but I just want you to know, not on the same tree! So, I am learning :-). It is so much fun to drive the tractor! And to round out my morning times at the ranch every other week on Thursdays (and that day I drag on Monday) from 10:00 to 12:00 I meet with a staff member and another long term volunteer gal for our mentoring session. 12:00-12:30 is lunch and from 12:30-1:00 is staff meeting where we go over the schedule for the day such as session times with children, specific tasks/chores that need to be accomplished for the day and then prayer time. 1:00 - 5:30 are session times. There are three--each last 1.5 hrs each. They also have stampede sessions which are only 45 minutes long for the younger children, so there are two during one session time.

My first couple of weeks I was working on different tasks or projects, and the past week and half I have been "shadowing" a staff member during a session time! The need is so great for more session leaders--it is unfortunate but many are turned away because there is just not enough time slots and leaders available. When I "shadow" a session time I sometimes take a more active role in talking with the child, and other times have kind of stood back because the staff member and the child have built a relationship and I didn't want to interrupt that communication/relationship. It's been fun to "shadow" different staff members--each one has their unique way of talking, communicating, sharing with the children. I can learn much from each of their styles and personalities!

From 5:30 to 6:00 is clean up time and feeding time. There are "closing cards" and each of us are assigned certain areas to take care of. Everything from sweeping to picking up the arena areas (cones or logs that have been set out for horse session times) to manure pickup (both horse and dog :-), basically what each of us do when we clean house! Make sure everything is in its place!

Hopefully that was mostly clear so you have a fairly good idea of what each day at the ranch entails. Sometimes the schedule is adhered to pretty well, and other times flexibility is the key! Some days people come to the ranch for tours that are not scheduled. Some days people have come to the ranch to volunteer their time--so I have worked with them on projects. Some days, like this past week the power company needed to trench right through the main paddock so the temporary fences had to be put up, and then taken down when they were finished. There has not been two days alike yet!


Saturday:

What takes up my evenings and weekends?

Easter weekend my hosts were out of town so some friends of theirs, and now mine, called me up and asked if I would like to go to church with them! What a pleasant surprise and blessing! Paul and Heeysun attend a church in Sunriver, OR--and I so enjoyed the service! I have been back twice with them. In the picture the back row I am standing next to Paul. In the front row in the middle is Mrs Lee and her son is on the left and her daughter is the right. Standing in front of Paul is his wife Heeysun.





The couple that I am living with introduced me to some of their friends one evening when we were invited over to their house for supper. During the dinner conversation she turned to me and asked me if I was interested in working on their ranch for pay---and very happily I said YES!! :-)!! So, I have been working some mornings and some hours both on Friday and Saturday cleaning the winter manure out of the horse paddocks, and now am starting to work on other ranch maintenance type tasks for them! WOW, way cool eh!!! I mean, I had prayed about a part time job--and here one was offered without me even looking! Praise the Lord with me!

I leave the ranch by 6:00 or 6:30, go to my hosts home and 90% of the time dinner is ready!!! I then do the dishes (since she made such a delicious meal for me to eat) and by that time it is usually 8:00ish. As you can imagine, I'm pretty whooped by then! I check my e-mails, write a few e-mails, take a shower and try to get to bed by 10:00. I would say at least once a week, and sometimes twice I have eaten dinner with my hosts at one of their friends home, I have eaten Sushi with some friends from the ranch--that will be a ONE TIME deal for sure (pictures below), had a "potluck" sort of dinner with other ranch friends another night, and just last night we all met at the house of some of the ranch ladies who live together to have a envelope stuffing party that included dinner. SO, I am not starving yet :-).





It's been fun to do several activities mentioned above with the guys and gals from the ranch at various homes. They are great people with a zest for life and a love for the ranch and it's ministry! The envelope stuffing party was the quarterly statements the ranch sends out for donations received. We folded, stuffed, licked and stamped around 700 letters! The time was passed with jokes, stories, laughter, and excellent tomato soup and toasted cheese sandwiches! On my way home the sky was the clearest that I've seen so far--and the stars--oh the stars I could see with my naked eye were phenomenal!!! I stopped by the side of the road so I could take in the view---but it was so freezing cold that I didn't stay out too long! Just this past week one of the ladies at the ranch said she was planning a star gazing night--I can't wait! Maybe it will be warmer by then??

I have on two occasions taken some longer motorcycle rides that have thrilled me! Just last week it was 75 degrees on Sunday afternoon so I took off towards the mountains. At one point the snow on either side of the road was higher than I was!! And, it was still warm. However, the higher I climbed (only about 1,000 feet) BBBBRRRRRR!!!! It was like teeth chattering cold!! I was very happy as I plateaued out to get back into warmer air!! The route I took, I have been told, is not even close to the beauty of the one that I can take once the road is opened after winter has passed here. So, in a few months I hope to take a long day trip through the mountains---too bad I don't have video camera on the front of my bike so you could see too! Here is a picture I took of Mt Washington.






A week ago Friday I went out to the ranch to help with the afternoon chores and Kelsie said--hey you want to ride a horse! Well, I surely couldn't that down! SO, for my very first REAL ride (the two other times earlier in my life they said didn't really constitute riding--that was more like crawling), I rode bareback!!!!!! Yup, it was just me on Hannah, feeling her bony back bone on my back bone :-). But WOW, what an experience! All I had to hold on with was my legs/thighs and my hands on her mane. Walking was cool, but when we got to the trotting part---hmm that got a little more interesting! I was laughing so hard (and the other gals there were laughing along with me too--glad I could be a source of amusement for them) that it proved difficult to stay upright! Yes, I did fall off twice--but no broken bones, just some pretty bruises on my backside :-). I got Hannah to canter for just two or three short bursts--and that was a tremendous comfort improvement---but I was kinda scared of falling off at such a speed--so I didn't do that for long! What a blast! The more I am learning about horses, the more I growing to love them! The more confident I get, the more relaxed and fun it is! Yes, it is true, a horse can "read" it's rider. They know if the rider is confident, if the rider is the "boss", and even which way the rider is looking! In fact in my last horse lesson class I purposely looked the other way while asking the horse with the reins to turn the opposite direction, and he went the way I was looking! I have MUCH to learn, but I think I am catching on pretty quickly--it sure helps to have patient, kind and humorous teachers too!

Praise the Lord with me for my adjusting to my new working/ministry environment and making new friends too!

One area that some of you have been praying about has been future living arrangements. The couple I am staying with is moving the end of May, and I needed to find a place to go. Well, that prayer has been answered in our Fathers amazing and miraculous way! AGAIN!! The people I am working for have offered me an apartment in their barn! Now, before you think I am living with the barn animals---I'm not--exactly :-). The best way to describe it would be like an studio or efficiency apartment that they have built along the side of the barn. I am so grateful the Lord prompted me to bring my coffee maker, toaster oven, popcorn popper, bedding and towels--because now I will put them all to good use! I am SO EXCITED about this new arrangement! It will save on gas and time since now when I get up I can start my "chores" at my "paying" job, then be at the ranch by 9:00. I will also feed and water their horses when they are gone for personal or business reasons. This working/living arrangement will work out for both of us great! I will be moving sometime in the next few weeks. I will now work for them in the mornings and help out with the horses in exchange for my board and utilities. If I work over and above on the weekends then I can turn in some hours for "pay". What an incredible answer to prayer! They live out in the country on a 40 acre ranch--it is so peaceful and quiet during the day--and I can see stars at night! The Father had this planned all along--a special special blessing for me! Praise the Lord with me!

Sunday:

This afternoon Judy and I went for a drive to Tumalo Falls. There was still snow that we had to walk across on the path to get to the top--but check out the view! Absolutely gorgeous!



Monday:

Today is the start of a new week! I am excited to see what the Lord has in store for this week! It was really neat last week to actually be able to recognize some parents and children! One precious little girl who two weeks ago remembered me came over to ask me a very important question. With her cowgirl boots, vest and pink baseball hat she peered into my eyes with such excitement asking: "Can we go scoop poop like we did last week?" A huge smile came to my face, and my heart flipped with her excitement and said sure. So together we went into the main paddock armed with two rakes and one wheelbarrow. As we picked up clumps together she filled me in on her week--the good and the sad. We laughed together, "high fived" when we managed to get an extra big clump in the wheelbarrow all in one scoop together, and so continues our friendship.

Last week I also had the privilege of making a new friend during a session time. This little one has come from a home that brings tears to my eyes. Halfway through the session time we were walking to the tack room and she reached up for my hand. I gave her my hand, and my heart. Later on, after we had bathed the horse (and each other!) I reached down to take her hand, and she gave me hers--and a piece of her precious heart. How I pray that her time at the ranch will be ones that she connects Jesus and His love for her with. That because the ranch is a safe place for her, she can, for a little while, laugh, play and be herself.

Again, thank you for your prayers for me, for the staff, and for each one that walks through the gates. Young and old, those with deep hurts, and those with wounds and scars--all come to the ranch to experience a healing, a release, a time to build relationships. As we have opportunity, not only do we listen, but we share with our actions and words the best unconditional love there is: the love of Jesus.

Have a spifferillo week and keep smilin' and lookin' to Jesus with me!

Pictures of the Ranch

Yesterday I took some pictures so you can now see with your eyes what I see each day as I arrive at the ranch!



Enjoy the tour!

Here is the view from the road as you go around the curve and begin to see the ranch on the left.

Turning into the driveway. What you see to the left is driveway up to the ranch. The empty space is where everyone parks. To the right is the lower barn that was full of hay for the winter, but is now getting empty.

The words at the bottom of the sign are: Rescue . Mentor . Empower.

The main driveway to the ranch where everyone walks.

The rather steep and long walk up the greeters station. :-)

However, as you walk and look to your left you can see the horses in the main corral. To the right of the driveway is the winter corral for the younger/baby horses (I will show you where they are now later). Not sure what they use it for during the summer season, but currently staff and interns park in there to keep the bottom parking area open for visitors.

Another view.

YEAH, we made it up! Here is where everyone signs a release form before they go onto the ranch property.



While you sign in you can enjoy this view from the greeters station.



Directly behind the greeters station is the tack room (same building), and the main meeting barn is what is directly in front of you. Here is where the Tuesday fellowships take place, where the DVD for the tour is shown, and leader/child time takes place among other things.

To the far right you can just barely see the gate to Sandy Pants--a smaller arena that has sand for the horses to roll in. It is also used for session times.


Again, standing at the greeters station and looking to your left you see in the distance the main arena, and to the right is the main office.


A closer view of the gate to the main arena.

The driveway between the arena and office that leads to the rear corral that has the baby/younger horses that are not used yet for sessions. Directly behind the office is the upper barn for hay storage, and adjacent to that is the tool shop.

The hill that you see in the background, is what I am told, the whole property looked like when the Meeder's purchased it. It was a cinder pit--used by the road commission to "gravel" the roads in the winter (they use no salt on their roads). To the right (that you can't see in the picture is another steep hill that levels out up top that the horses climb up and down. The Meeder's house is also to the right.

Here is the view standing from the office doorway. The farthest to the left snow capped mountain is Broken Top. The next is the South Sister, middle Sister and Northern Sister. Yes, these mountains are called the Three Sisters! :-). Incredible view isn't it?
This picture also shows some construction materials. PRAY as the permit needs to go through to add onto the office area.

Well, this took a LONG time to get all these pictures posted on here, so I have to hustle to get to work on time!

Thanks for your prayers!

Friday's writings in Bend, OR

I am currently sitting on the second floor of the public library in Bend, OR. I woke up this morning to NO electricity!! It was also snowing and overcast. YIKES, it was cold! Bend is about 25 miles east of Sisters, and the further I drove the sunnier it became :-). After a tour of Bend (a nice way of saying I kinda got lost, but not too lost) I ended up at this library. I hung out here for a bit, then went and walked the city. Now that my 2.5 hour walk is finished, I am ready to rest inside for a bit.
So, you ask, how was my first two days on the ranch? Spifferillo :-). The first day I was called a volunteer, then yesterday I got "upgraded" to be an intern :-). How do ya like that?! I have been hanging around the Greeter for the most part. They meet and greet each person that walks up the hill to the entrance of the ranch. Each person must sign a legal document before entering the ranch, and while they do that we chat and help them feel welcome and special. They then are paired up with their sessions leader. There are 3 sessions each day that last 1.5 hours each. There may be 3-4 children at each one of the session times. It is an individual one-on-one time with a leader, child and horse. First they participate in a chore. That may be anything from weeding, planting flowers (neither of those yet) or picking up sticks, manure, horse hair, writing thank you notes, etc. Then they pick out a horse and groom them. After that they go to one of the corrals and have a "riding lesson". The emphasis of the whole time is not a riding lesson, but a one on one time with a leader who listens, talks, and shares smiles, hope, love, and/or whatever the Lord leads.
Yesterday was way cool because I had the privilege of seeing one of the people that Kim wrote about in her book! She was one of the young ladies who had not spoken any words because of her handicap, but after spending time with the horses has begun expressing verbally and also with facial expressions! As I listened to the staff member tell a tour group the story behind the young lady it moved my heart with prayer and praise for the wonderful staff that was working with her as well as for the love of Jesus that was so evidently portrayed in the young ladies life as well.
I have met and personally greeted a few of the horses. Tomahawk, Phoenix, Teva, Hero and another horse that starts with "E" and I can't remember her name!. In fact, on Thursday I was able (with the help of Sarah) to lead this beautiful horse from one corral to another :-). Way cool!! I think the staff is a little amused by my lack of horse knowledge--but for sure they are all so friendly and helpful! The environment here is definitely informal--and that is so different than the corporate world I am used to. It will take some getting used too--but I am looking forward to "figuring out how" :-).
My official training begins either next week, or the following week--depending on scheduling. I will be "assigned" a mentor and will be working with her each day to learn from her about horses and how to work with the children during a session time.
Never having been around horses so close before I am in wonder and awed. What stunning and exquisite creatures! At first they all looked the same, but after just two days I am able to see different markings, facial features, body shapes and sizes, and eye coloring. I think their eye lashes are cute :-).
So far I have hung out with some of the parents, played with children, picked up dog manure (one of the chores :-) ), picked up branches (a man came and pruned their trees), moved pallets from inside the barn to outside (YEAH some physical labor!!!), taken tours with a staff member, and have begun the learning process of how the ranch functions.
How am I doing physically, emotionally, spiritually? Physically--super. Judy is a wonderful cook--everything I have eaten I have liked! Emotionally--I have my ups and downs. I am so grateful for the phone I got before I left--my Mom and I have had some good talkings! I still haven't adjusted to the 3 hour time change, so I am going to bed very late (like 11:00 - 1:00 a.m.) and getting up anywhere from 5:00 - 6:30 a.m. Each day I can stay up a bit later and sleep in a bit later....so that is good! Tears seem to be at the surface most of the time--not because I wish I was somewhere else, but because of all the changes and adjustments. Everything, and I mean EVERYTHING is different! Living with people instead of living alone, living in the city instead of the country, not having my "house", the temperature extremes, the art of getting "lost" just about every time I go out, not knowing where to purchase items....I am sure you get the idea. None of these are bad--it's just all so new. Frankly, I don't even know where Highway 20 is that I need to get on to get back to Sisters! I am getting real good at asking people--saves the "tours" :-). Sometimes all of this adds up to a time of tears. Spiritually--I am spending much time in prayer and in the Scripture. Since there are no humans close enough to reach out too in a physical way, I am reaching out to my Heavenly Father. I must, or I will either implode or explode. Yes, I have great hosts, yes I can call my family/friends on the phone...but it is NOT the same as reaching out and REALLY touching someone! Just today after I "got lost" and couldn't even find a coffee shop or a restaurant to eat breakfast/lunch I cried (literally and then verbally) out to Him for help and comfort. I think I circled Bend 2 times--and then a very nice lady at Barnes and Noble gave me directions to this library. It was the Lord's provision for me! I am sure she was a little confused with my tears as I asked for directions--but she instead of just verbally telling me how to get here she was so kind and wrote them out--turn by turn! The Lord has had just such people at the just the right places to help me get "unlost" or even to give friendly smiles as I walk down the street. I have been working on memorizing Psalm 121. Vs 5 says "The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade on your right hand [the side not carrying a shield]." Isn't that way cool?! Vs 7-8 says: "The Lord will keep you from all evil; He will keep your life. The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore". I am holding on to these promises.
Something else that brings great comfort is knowing of all the prayer support from my family, my church family, and many others. I KNOW and sense these--because I can see how my way has been guided, protected, and little joys experienced along the way. I thank each one of you for time spent in prayer for me!
Once I get into the full swing of ranch work and getting settled into a church and begin making new friends I believe my "ups and downs" will smooth out. Like I told my Mom today--in a way it seems like I have been here awhile--but in reality it has been less than a week! Yes, I must be patient with myself too :-).
The mountains, buttes, and landscape is pure bliss and delight for my eyes and heart. The "monster" trucks and four wheel drives are cool too!! I have seen quite a few "classic" cars, and a few motorcycles (brrr) as well.
Well, if you have successfully followed today's blog then you are doing great! Hopefully I have given you a good picture of my life and what is happening so far.
Keep smilin' and lookin' to Jesus with me today! Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever! Jesus is the same in Michigan and in Oregon! What a sure and solid foundation we have. Rejoice with me as each of us listens, obeys and enjoys the adventure He has us on wherever we are!

P.S. Did you know it is illegal to pump your own gas in Oregon? OOPS!! :-) Learned that one the "hard way". Did you know that it is the law that traffic MUST stop for anyone wanting to cross the road at any time or place?

This is it!!

The day I have been waiting and praying about has finally arrived! Can you believe it? The road to get here has had it's share of ups and bumps, ahh, but sweet is the day, April 1!

The last two days I have been settling in nicely. My hosts names are Jerry and Judy Price. They have been so gracious in opening up their home to me! When I was just a youngster our family lived close to Aunt Judy and Uncle Jerry for a while. I remember playing with their oldest daughter. Yes, in our Father's unique, incredible and amazing ways they are my Dad's cousins who live a mere 13 miles from the ranch! I thought they were still living in Wisconsin, so when I said "yes" to the ranch's invitation I had no clue where I would live---but He did! Another one of the many confirmations of His leading and guiding me to Oregon to begin serving at CPYR.

Jerry is a professional counselor, consultant and author. His career path has also included the pastorate, education and coaching. He and his wife Judy work together with marriage counseling, and much much more. If you want to visit their website it is: http://www.moremarried.com/ I am so blessed to be living here! Rejoice with me!

Judy is a great hostess and tour guide! Sisters is a town, well, kinda like Grand Haven but bigger. Lots of neat touristy type stores, but also the essentials like the hardware, grocery, second hand store and coffee shop! She has taken me to the Ranger station to get info on the trails and mountains, and to the Chamber of Commerce to get info on the area in and around Sisters. It has a nice small town feeling--so a country girl like me doesn't feel too out of place :-). She also is a great cook! YEAH!!

I am still getting used to the time change. As I write this, it is 6:44 a.m.--and in Michigan it is 9:44 a.m. My crazy body clock won't let me sleep in much, but I am feeling more rested each day. My schedule for the day is to be at the ranch at 12:30 to be a part of their staff meeting, and then the ranch officially opens up for 2009 at 1:00! I'll let you know later who, what , why and how took place!

"Trust in Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5,6 Together, lets trust Him today!

Keep smilin' and lookin' to Jesus with me!

Oregon welcomes Jane!

My brain is pretty much mush right now...since it is 10:42 according to my body, but in "real time" it is 7:42. I am trying to stay up later tonight since I don't have to get up and drive tomorrow!! YEAH!
Thank you for all your prayers for personal safety, mechanical safety and spiritual safety! All prayers have been answered. Isn't our God gracious with the timing of my driving? As my Dad said to me tonight--I missed the storm that came BEFORE I was driving, and now that I am here, I am missing the storm that is ARRIVING tomorrow! Our God is GREAT in His timing--just another confirmation and His mighty hand that we can see.

More news to come in a few days....

Smiles from Oregon, and lookin' together with you to Jesus!

Laramie, Wyoming

Nebraska wild life consists of long legged gray looking birds that swarmed and swooped over the highway and landed in fields. What are they? I did see some some recognizable animals: cows and horses :-). Again, I thank the Lord there was very little wind today...a good travel day through NE. Most of the trucks and vehicles coming East were packed with icicles and snow! I heard at the truck stop that I-80 was closed last night....and if today were yesterday I would of been finding different lodging. So, again, I thank the Lord for the timing of the storm, and the safety in travels today.

I just HAD to stop in Sydney NE--the home of Cabela's :-). I wandered around for about 2 hours and came away with some socks, a rod tube, and a z-rest all for under 40 bucks!! I was pretty happy with my bargains from the bargain den that's for sure! It felt good to stretch my legs and enjoy God's creation that is mounted and stuffed. Beautiful and fascinating!

So what was that huge beast on the hills next to the highway after I entered Wyoming? The one that as I looked to the left I steered to the right and those rumble strips got my attention back on the road?! Wasn't a deer that's for sure!

Gladys took the foothills a little slow--so tomorrow when I hit some bigger up hill grades going into the mountains I am pretty sure we'll be able to check out the scenery real well since we won't be going 60! Your continued prayers for road, wind, mechanical and personal safety are much appreciated!

The view has been incredible today. I have never been this far West (that I remember what I saw), and the hills, fields, rock formations, snow, ranches, trains, animals, and the sunshine were delightful for my eyes and heart. I'm thinking that tomorrows views will be even more spectacular!

I enjoyed the many phone conversations with different family members today---it was fun hearing about what was going on with them, and for me to give them a "picture" of what I was seeing.

Hope this makes sense, I'm bushed and headed for a good nights sleep!

Keep smilin' and lookin' to Jesus with me!

Nebraska greetings

Just a quick note--great travels today---cloudy and not a lot of wind! I even saw a rainbow! Took a "tour" of Omaha today--Map Quest was a little confused! Thankfully the nice gentleman at the gas station gave wonderful directions!
Tomorrow will be a longer day--10 plus hours.
Praise the Lord with me for answered prayers so far--and we trust Him for tomorrow as well.

3 States in 1 day!

Michigan, Indiana and Illinois. I am in New Lenox hanging out with my Aunt Betty. Uncle Max is away on a business trip, so it just us girls :-). We finished a fabulous supper and have been enjoying catching each other up on the latest news in our lives.
Gladys and I continued our bonding process. She ran flawlessly, and purred happily while everyone (minus two trucks) flew past us like rabbits passing a turtle :-).
Thank you for your prayers on this first leg of my journey.
I also want to thank my church for a wonderful time of celebration and commissioning Sunday night. The food, fellowship, encouraging words, hugs, and tears will stay imprinted on my heart and mind for a long time. Trinity Baptist Church is the BEST!

YEEEHAAA Oregon here I come!!

Hello everyone!

I am so excited! It seems like a long time since November 2nd when I received my invitation to serve at CPYR--but now it is only days away till April 1!

Last Friday was my final day at work. They had a really nice going away lunch, some fun and practical presents--and yes, tears. It's tough leaving the people who have been such a big part of my life these past years! However, I am planning on seeing them in December sometime--and so it makes the parting a little easier.

This week is chocked full of packing, and spending time with family. Gladys seems eager for the trip--and with her new trailer hitch she's lookin' pretty :-). Now, just to figure out what to leave and what to bring! I am THRILLED that I can bring my motorcycle! We are going to have some fantastic rides in the beautiful countryside!

I am leaving Michigan Monday the 23rd and will spend a few days in the Chicago area visiting family, and early Thursday morning head West.

I sure do appreciate your many prayers these days. I also appreciate your prayers for safe travels both mechanically, and personally. The llllooooonnnnnggggg four days, I pray, will fly by with books on tape, music and new scenery.

Keep smilin' and lookin' to Jesus with me today! :-)