Arkansas ~ My First Guy Trip

May 29-31, 2010

Arkansas ~ My first "guy trip," as my mother-in-law called it. She's used to traveling with all guys, but this was a first for me. We got a meeting at Pastor McFadden's church in Arkansas, and Bro. Buddy handed the job over to his three boys for the very first time; I went along to keep them out of trouble. =D

Russellville, a town we passed by. Looks like a nice place to be! ;)

The day is thine, the night also is thine: thou hast prepared the light and the sun.

Psalms 74:16

And this is what kept me busy on the road: reading, taking pictures, laptop, and eating! I love my new purse!!!

We stopped at Chili's for lunch on Saturday after leaving the house at 5:30am. The boys were more interested in their iphones and chatting with people who weren't at the table than those who were. Poor me! ;( =D

Aaron...trying to make the healthy choice!

His mom recently took him off sugar, so she asked me to keep an eye on him.

He chose for the broccoli out of obligation...not choice. =D

Aaron loves to get right in the middle of things. =D

He kept us laughing 80% of the time. I sure love my 2 newly-aquired brothers!

Crossing the Mississippi River!

Sights you'll see in the South...

This is a Christian nation!

After about 12 hours on the road we arrived at the McFadden's place, but the drive through Arkansas countryside was lovely! We passed fields and fields of rice, some of which were flooded. What a unique way of growing food!

This is the McFadden's house and yard. The view to one side of the house was an almost-endless field. Beautiful!

This reminds me of Holland. Makes me a little homesick. =(

The cool couple! =D

Church on Sunday morning was great! Aaron showed a short clip about the boys home for Sunday school. Then Clay preached the morning service. He talked about a well-known pastor who was always busy with the ministry. His wife sometimes felt forgotten, so she began hiding from him to see if he would find her. The fact that he always looked for her until he found her hiding place proved that though he was busy, he still loved her and wanted to be with her. Clay said during his message that God hides Himself from us so we will desire Him more earnestly. It was excellent! The fellowship with the church folks was wonderful too; the people were so friendly. I even got to sing with the boys during the night service!

Sunday afternoon relaxation! The McFadden's little grandson, Cody, spent some time with us; he was cute!

Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.

Matthew 9:37-38

Russell and I enjoyed the yard and the beautiful view.

For the evening service the boys sang 2 songs, then I joined them for another 2. Then Russell preached about "The Bubbles of God's Will." The message was born from a conversation Russell and I had while we were courting. We were discussing how sometimes it seemed that we were stuck in bubbles. Like glass prisons, they allowed us to see our friends moving on in life but we were stuck in a capsule of time and unable to escape. Then we concluded that the bubble was for our protection, and as long as we were stuck in the bubble of God's will that is the best place to be! His preaching was good!

I still can't get over the fact that Russell is married...and I'm married to him! Every time he gets up to sing with his brothers, his wedding band seems to shine out. Russell told me several Sundays ago that he was up in front of church singing with his brothers when he reached down to adjust the volume on the piano for Clay. Clay, who was playing the piano, noticed Russell's ring and pointed to Russell's ringed-finger momentarily as he looked up at Russell with his mouth hanging open with renewed surprise. Apparently Clay also seems to think it is something that Russell is married. =D

Our first meeting was great! Mom Maynard texted Russell as we drove home that night asking how it went. Since I've appointed myself Russell's secretary while he drives, I answered her text with this: "I think we were a blessing, but I know we got a blessing!" Bro. McFadden teasingly asked if we would come back next weekend. =D The Lord was very good! My favorite part was being able to direct a couple in the church to some good Christian music---the John Marshall family and Abigail Miller. "Christian" music is sadly lacking these days, so I find great delight in helping those who are searching to find wholesome music. Praise God!

We encountered this huge church on the road home.

The sun looks so much brighter after the stormy clouds roll away.

I LOVE Cracker Barrel!!!

He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knoweth his going down.

Psalms 104:19

I love being on the road; I've told Russell I could easily become an evangelist's wife. But I must say I was very happy to get home and in my own bed after 19 hours on the road!

Thank God for my little tin can home! =)

Preacher Appreciation Day!

I don’t generally pay any attention to the special days on the calendar. However, I was studying my calendar the other day (I wonder why…? =D) when I noticed “Clergy Appreciation Day.” Okay, the word “clergy” sounds Catholic, so I’m changing it to “Preacher Appreciation Day.” It’s sad when we have to make special days to remember people and their important offices. Would to God we were always thankful people and didn’t need to be reminded of these things! So, anyway…I just wanted to write a post and praise the Lord for the great preachers He has put in my life.

As a little girl and teenager, Pastor Bruce Craig was my pastor. I’m thankful for him and all he has meant to our family. I remember a time years ago when my dad was on deputation, leaving us children at home with Mom (her bad health made traveling very difficult). I had a tooth that was loose and simply refusing to fall out, but I was afraid to do anything about it, and Mom was too grossed out to help me pull it. Finally one day my mom brought me into Pastor Craig’s office and asked for help. After having a look and assuring me everything would be fine, he popped it out of my unsuspecting mouth with one smooth motion. Gone! Not only was Pastor Craig good at preaching, but he also made quite an excellent under-cover dentist for a distressed little girl with a stubborn tooth. We never did find it! (chuckle)

Mrs. Craig went to be with the Lord in 2006, which changed a good many things. Though I have childhood memories of her being quite stern when the children were running around or playing behind the pulpit (praise God for that!), Mrs. Craig was such a dear lady. I now look back and understand her much better from an adult perspective. I’m even privileged to have some books she gave me on my bookshelves. I look forward to giving Mrs. Craig a big hug when I get Home! Her testimony has always been a blessing to me, because it is so similar to mine. I believe she never was sure exactly when she got saved, but she told everyone she knew she was because of 1 John 3:14--“We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren.” One thing was sure--Mrs. Craig loved her church! They say that behind every good man is a good woman. In the case of Pastor and Mrs. Craig this was very true! I am so thankful for the influence they have had on my family and in my life.

For the last 14 years, since we left for the mission field, my dad has been my pastor. It has been a blessing to experience Christian pioneering as my parents left everything familiar and comfortable to go to Holland, breaking a fresh trail on hard, rocky soil to reach a barren mission field with the gospel of Jesus Christ. It has been no small feat, and for this my parents have my undying devotion. Have you ever wondered how a path is formed through dense forests or unending prairie lands? A single man or woman makes a hard decision, having two choices--to take the well-trodden path of least resistance or break to new ground destined for better things and greater achievements. Those who have similar courage follow behind these brave souls! This is how great things are accomplished for God! Maybe…one day, the Lord will see fit to give me this great privilege of breaking spiritual ground as well!

I love being a missionary-pastor’s daughter! It has been the greatest blessing in the world to be raised in the home of a preacher, daily saturated in God’s Word. My dad is such an inspiration to me as I see him walking the daily Christian life. We have had people leave our church because they felt Dad was hypocritical (who isn’t???) or they didn’t agree with his Bible stand and instead of approaching him about it, chose to get angry and spread hate. Sure! Dad makes mistakes, because he’s human. But from everything I have witnessed first-hand, my dad is a godly man and the stands he takes aren’t easy. When going against the grain you can expect plenty of splinters! Dad preaches Bible and he preaches hard, but when dealing with people on a one-to-one basis his kind words cannot be resisted by anyone who is walking with God. I know from experience how true this is. My dad is one of the most godly, kind, gracious men I know. I’m proud to call him my daddy and my pastor! I love you, Dad! =)

In about 6 months I’m going to have a new preacher! I’m looking forward to becoming a member of Truth Baptist Church and having Pastor Buddy Maynard as my shepherd. In April 2008 our church got to hear Bro. Buddy preach for the first time, and I’ll never forget what a blessing it was, especially since we don’t get too many special speakers in from the States. It was refreshing to hear someone backing up what Dad has been preaching all along! I love that old-fashioned, squirm-in-your-seat kind of preaching, which is something that many churches have lost with compromise. I haven’t gotten to hear too much of Bro. Buddy’s preaching as of yet, but I know that he has one fine son, who is also a preacher, and that says a lot. I’m so thankful that this missionary-preacher’s daughter is going to be marrying a preacher’s son. Russell is a good preacher…my very own “preacher boy.” (I always thought that was a cute term and wanted to use it to one day describe my best friend in the whole wide world. I always wanted to marry a preacher!)

I would also like to mention that names of Youth Pastor Jim Krohn, for his influence in my life as a teen during visits to the States, and Pastor S. M. Davis, for his detailed preaching on courtship and the strong stand he takes on the Christian home, marriage, and the family. His online sermons have had a tremendous impact on our family. I am also thinking of Pastor & Mrs. Jim Green in Charlevoix, MI. I don’t know Mrs. Green very well personally, but my brief encounters with her have left my heart warmed by the sweet presence of God’s spirit surrounding her. I could continue listing off the names of so many preachers and preachers’ wives who have touched my life. I just want to say how thankful I am to these precious people and the Lord for all His goodness! May they continue to stand strong for the Lord Jesus and not succumb to compromise with this world!

“For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” Hebrews 6:10

Dedication Service

Well, the chocolate babies got dedicated to the Lord yesterday! We had a special service at our church for Glenn and Nathalie and their sweet little family. We sure do love these people! The Lord has grown them in so many ways. Please keep praying that our ministry will establish and strengthen good, solid families who can serve the Lord in this country where the family is basically nonexistent. We see boyfriends and girlfriends and their children living together like a family, though the parents aren't married, and we see single moms and single dads with one illegitimate child or multiple children from several different relationships. I know things are bad in the States, but here in Holland it seems to be a plague. What's scary is seeing unmarried couples who are more committed to each other than those who have legally been married. And then there are those who have a baby with a girlfriend/boyfriend, split up, and have difficulty seeing that child as much as they'd like to. It has never made much sense to me, but now that Russell and I are courting, I find it even more mind boggling. For the life of me, I cannot comprehend why anybody would do that...put themselves through that kind of torture, not to mention how confused and insecure the poor children must feel as they are tossed like a ball between two opposing players. God's ways are so much simpler. If only we would follow in them instead of walking our own willful path. So much heartache could be avoided...

We had a full house. I was in the nursery, but I believe Dad preached a message about Abraham offering Isaac. What an excellent topic for such an occasion! Glenn's mother and sister got saved as a result! Praise the Lord! They are only the ones we are aware of. Only God knows who else might have accepted Christ as their Saviour.

Here are Glenn & Nathalie and their 3 boys. They are such a joy to our church and to our family! Some people have the idea that children are a burden, but let me say that when they are brought up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, my, what a blessing they are! Glenn and Nathalie are doing a good job! We pray they keep up the good work and that God might use these three precious souls and raise them up to be the next generation of godly young men. Perhaps even preachers...you never know!!! =)

Bro. Mischa and Mom made an adorable banner. "Jezus zegt: Laat de kinderen tot Mij komen. (Mat. 19:14)." Mom outdid herself, decorating with bright balloons and colorful flowers and matching napkins. Sister Milly made delicious food for the after-service meal, and other ladies brought dishes as well. Though our family was kept quite busy, it was a blessing to see our people and visitors having such an enjoyable time. I love our church! It's hard to even imagine that I won't always be here. I've never experienced such conflicting and utterly confusing emotions in my entire life. On that subject, I've gotten some teasing from church folk about my ability to cook and take care of babies. Everyone is concerned about my capabilities and determined that I should be well practiced up to be a wife and mother. =)

At a serious moment, Baby Jonathan thought Dad was rather amusing... That baby is too cute!!! I've considered kidnapping him, but I think he might miss his mommy and daddy. Nobody can so easily get a smile or gurgling laugh out of him like his parents and big brothers can. That is something I hope to experience one day.

Daniel was a good boy, though he was sick and feeling somewhat miserable. I actually took care of Daniel for several days when he was a tiny (premature) baby, so I guess I know how a mother feels waking up several times a night for feedings. (grimace) See? I do have some experience! =D

Is it this side of my face you wanted to see?

Nathan is adorable! He isn't super smiley like Daniel is, but, similar to his mommy, when his face lights up in a smile, your heart just about melts.

We love the Kerkeboom family! Lord, bless these dear people!

photo credits to: Lyd

Courting ~ Day 2

Wednesday, July 15, 2009



Making breakfast...



Russell helped and kept me company.



We played PIT together. We had too much fun playing that game last October. We really missed Clay and Aaron. =(



Me: Who cares about the game. I love looking at my ring!
I think this picture is too cute!



Russell serenaded me quite often. I loved that!



This was our first "date." Russell told me his story--how God showed him that I was going to be his wife--and he also said some sweet things to me. I didn't do much eating (chuckle) but it was awfully nice to have Russell pull out my chair for me and serve up my dinner. We even had a candle lit! It was a very nice first "date." =)

Russell and me in church on Wednesday night. I never thought the two of us would be sitting together in church. Very special!

And here is my "Matthew" preaching...








This is a typical Russell face when he's preaching.




"My beloved is like a roe or a young hart: behold, he standeth behind our wall, he looketh forth at the windows, shewing himself through the lattice." ~ Song of Solomon 2:9

Russell had this verse up with his picture; I thought it was perfect!



Russell & Hannah

Our first official courtship picture!


See Russell's picture post (HERE).

Courting ~ Day 6

Sunday, July 19, 2009



We had pictures taken in the backyard in our "Sunday finery." My ring matched so well with the colors of my outfit (I love my colonial dress!). I told Russell several dozen times how much I love my ring!

Another neat picture, but you've got to open it up to see it better.

Russell...getting orders from "the boss." (giggle) Mischa was sick, so Russell and I played for the song service. Guitar and piano blend so well together. I always wanted to marry a guy who could play the guitar...just like my dad.

Bro. Buddy would often shake his head in disbelief and joy about Russell and me. Both our sets of parents are thrilled with the match.

Announcements.

Relaxing after church. You can't see baby Jonathan very well, but we were all looking at him.

Russell is a good boy. I appreciate that his parents taught him to cook, clean, and...wash dishes. Here we are, washing cups after coffee time. I started on them, and Russell found me and started helping.

Our dads...relaxing after church. Bro. Buddy was talking with Clay after he watched the church service in Panama City.

Just about the whole week long Josiah and Russell "fought" over who would get my bike out of the shed for me. I guess Josiah allowed Russell to do the honors this time, but he was very adament that he is my brother and Russell doesn't have any rights yet. (chuckle)

Lydia and Russell being silly. I'm trading Lydia in for Russell. They are two peas in a pod. It's really a scary thing! Russell is a male version of Lydia. (chuckle) I never ceased to be amazed at their similarities.

Russell made coffee in his mug every morning, and he still does!

See Russell's picture post (HERE).