Thank You Friends,
My heart overflows with love and gratitude to all of you who so freely gave and helped me to fill my "little shoebox on a mission" last month. If you sent in a love donation, hopefully you have already received a personal note of thanks in the mail. Today I want to thank you again--PUBLICLY, for your wonderful generosity. I am excited to report that my little shoebox was filled with a grand total of $550.00!! Every penny will go a long way in helping to meet the needs of the CTSC Elsie Conde Camp for Special Needs Children this July. The staff and workers were deeply touched when the shoebox mission was presented at their kick-off meeting on March 29th. Much more importantly than that special moment with them, I can hardly wait to see how many precious little lives will be forever changed through this camp because YOU cared. "Thank you" seems so little but it comes from the depths of my heart. May your rewards be many when God himself looks you in the eye and blesses you with His words, "Well done, good and faithful servant".
I love you guys,
Judy
Acts 20:35 "It is more blessed to give than to receive".
PS I will give you a full report and hopefully some great pictures during the Special Needs Camp in July. Until then, if you would like to read and see more about the CTSC Sports Camps you can visit their blog. (***They have just returned from the first camp of 2009 to Honduras where 27 children asked Jesus into their hearts! ***) To view go to: ctscmission.org and click on the blue and red box to the left labeled "Honduras Live". Enjoy!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Thursday, March 12, 2009
A SHOEBOX AND A MISSION
Greetings Friends,
As I mentioned in my January blog, there are several projects that I feel the Lord has called me to be involved in this year. I would like to share one of them with you today. It is called the Elsie Conde Special Needs Camp, a not-for-profit organization to teach sports to children with special needs, within their own abilities, in an environment where they learn, see, and experience the love of Jesus. This new camp is a part of the Cross Training Sports Camp which began in June of 2001. This special needs camp was added to the program last year in memory of little Elsie who went home to be with the Lord just a few short months after she was born. Her grandmother, the director of the camps, was first drawn to mission work as a child in Sunday School. God used "a little shoebox" filled with supplies for a missionary family in Africa to bring her down a path that would birth the Cross Training Sports Camp Program. Since that time, CTSC has held camps in Africa, Honduras, Bolivia, Washington, Oklahoma, Montana, ElSalvador and local camps in Gainesville, Georgia where they have witnessed God at work changing lives and whole communities.
All the volunteers who work these camps raise their own support and that is where I feel the "call to help". The very first Elsie Conde Special Needs Camp will be held in Suwanee, Ga. this year during the week of July 20-24 and will require extra training, more volunteers and special equipment to meet the needs of these precious children. Because the path of CTSP began through a shoebox mission and since I am unable to physically participate at the camp this year, I would love to be able to fill a "little shoebox with donations" and present it to the director at our kick-off meeting on Sunday, March 29. If you are able and would like to help me fill my shoebox I would need to receive your donations no later than Friday, March 27. Please make your donations to CTSC Elsie Conde Camp and mail them to me at 799 River Chase, Hoschton, GA 30548.
I realize that financial situations for all of us are strained at this time but I also know that little is much when God is in it! If you are unable to financially contribute I want you to know that your prayers are equally important and just as meaningful. Please pray that God will guide and bless every area of planning and preparation for this special camp. That He will send the workers and bless them with wisdom and strength as they work with these special needs children. That the financial expenses will be met and that the lives of all those involved will be forever changed!! I thank you in advance for sharing this call with me. May "the shoebox on a mission" continue to spread God's love!
I love you guys,
Judy
ICorinthians 3:9 For we are laborers together with God.
As I mentioned in my January blog, there are several projects that I feel the Lord has called me to be involved in this year. I would like to share one of them with you today. It is called the Elsie Conde Special Needs Camp, a not-for-profit organization to teach sports to children with special needs, within their own abilities, in an environment where they learn, see, and experience the love of Jesus. This new camp is a part of the Cross Training Sports Camp which began in June of 2001. This special needs camp was added to the program last year in memory of little Elsie who went home to be with the Lord just a few short months after she was born. Her grandmother, the director of the camps, was first drawn to mission work as a child in Sunday School. God used "a little shoebox" filled with supplies for a missionary family in Africa to bring her down a path that would birth the Cross Training Sports Camp Program. Since that time, CTSC has held camps in Africa, Honduras, Bolivia, Washington, Oklahoma, Montana, ElSalvador and local camps in Gainesville, Georgia where they have witnessed God at work changing lives and whole communities.
All the volunteers who work these camps raise their own support and that is where I feel the "call to help". The very first Elsie Conde Special Needs Camp will be held in Suwanee, Ga. this year during the week of July 20-24 and will require extra training, more volunteers and special equipment to meet the needs of these precious children. Because the path of CTSP began through a shoebox mission and since I am unable to physically participate at the camp this year, I would love to be able to fill a "little shoebox with donations" and present it to the director at our kick-off meeting on Sunday, March 29. If you are able and would like to help me fill my shoebox I would need to receive your donations no later than Friday, March 27. Please make your donations to CTSC Elsie Conde Camp and mail them to me at 799 River Chase, Hoschton, GA 30548.
I realize that financial situations for all of us are strained at this time but I also know that little is much when God is in it! If you are unable to financially contribute I want you to know that your prayers are equally important and just as meaningful. Please pray that God will guide and bless every area of planning and preparation for this special camp. That He will send the workers and bless them with wisdom and strength as they work with these special needs children. That the financial expenses will be met and that the lives of all those involved will be forever changed!! I thank you in advance for sharing this call with me. May "the shoebox on a mission" continue to spread God's love!
I love you guys,
Judy
ICorinthians 3:9 For we are laborers together with God.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
SIMPLE ACTS OF KINDNESS
Pink and red hearts......they are on display every where we go reminding us that "love is in the air". February, the month for flowers, cards and chocolate candy!! It is nice to have a day set aside to remind us to slow down and focus on the people we love but, shouldn't we be doing that every day? Life is short and our friends and family are very precious blessings. Let me say first of all, "I love you very much! You are truly God's gift to me and I thank Him always for each one of you. My life is so much richer because you have been a part of it. Happy Valentine's Day with all my love to all of you!"
While I was buying my Valentine's Day cards last week, the Lord spoke this thought to me..."Share my love in simple acts of kindness". When I got home I began to think about those words and ways that I could do just that! "Simple acts of kindness" could be many things, some so simple we might not even think to do them, but something that could mean so much to the one on the receiving end. Immediately the Lord brought ideas to my mind. Simple acts of kindness, (done in secret), reap the greatest joy of all when we expect nothing in return. My list of ideas grows every day and I can hardly wait to answer His call!! Do you have simple acts of kindness that you might need to do as well? After all, love IS in the air!!
I love you guys,
Judy
Colossians 3:12 Be kind to others and have no pride. Be gentle and willing to wait for others.
P.S. Medical update: Thank you so much for your prayers. I am praising God for the good reports on my blood work last month. My next mammogram is scheduled for Feb. 23, and your continued prayers mean so much.
While I was buying my Valentine's Day cards last week, the Lord spoke this thought to me..."Share my love in simple acts of kindness". When I got home I began to think about those words and ways that I could do just that! "Simple acts of kindness" could be many things, some so simple we might not even think to do them, but something that could mean so much to the one on the receiving end. Immediately the Lord brought ideas to my mind. Simple acts of kindness, (done in secret), reap the greatest joy of all when we expect nothing in return. My list of ideas grows every day and I can hardly wait to answer His call!! Do you have simple acts of kindness that you might need to do as well? After all, love IS in the air!!
I love you guys,
Judy
Colossians 3:12 Be kind to others and have no pride. Be gentle and willing to wait for others.
P.S. Medical update: Thank you so much for your prayers. I am praising God for the good reports on my blood work last month. My next mammogram is scheduled for Feb. 23, and your continued prayers mean so much.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
LOOKING BACK---LOOKING AHEAD
I am sorry that it has taken me so long to get back to posting on my blog. I am still trying to catch-up on the year that just ended and the new year that has just begun!!
As I look back on 2008, I have to say, "It has been an awesome journey". This Christmas season was especially wonderful for me. All of my children and grandchildren were home this year. There is nothing sweeter or more fulfilling to a mother's heart than to be able to look around the room and be reminded of just how special each individual person truly is. There are 15 of us now, each one unique and each one equally important in making us "Family". I will treasure every single second of our time together. (I would include some photos but I haven't learned how to do that yet...maybe that will be a resolution for the new year!!)
Speaking of resolutions, I looked back on some of the ones I made last year. Some of them I kept pretty well, others not so much. That won't stop me from trying again or striving for new ones in the year ahead. How about you, what would you like to accomplish in 2009? Whether we've been to the mountain top or through the valley in 2008, those things are behind us. To know Jesus and the power of His resurrection, we must run the race in front of us. I have been seeking God's direction and though I don't have all the answers yet, I know He will direct my path. He is leading me in several areas and projects for the days ahead and I will share more about that in a later blog. For now, I want to slow down enough that I might see through His eyes the things around me that are important to Him.
Staying well is another priority for me in 2009. God has brought me through so much the past two years and I praise Him for that. Most days I don't even think about cancer anymore unless I have to go in for a test or for a check up with the doctors. My next appointment is on Jan. 26th and I covet your prayers. When the results come in, I will let you know. Until then, I will press forward with confidence knowing that God is in control and simply enjoy 2009 and whatever it should bring. Happy New Year dear friends.
I love you guys,
Judy
Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
**P.S. Have you ever had one of those moments that brought you an unexpected smile? I just love it when God reveals something special to me and today it was through, of all things, "AN APPLE".
It was mid-afternoon and I was ready for a little snack so I washed an apple and when I went to cut it in half I accidentally cut it from the side instead of my usual way from the stem at the top. When it fell open, right there "hidden" in the center of the apple was a perfect 5-pointed star!! My little mistake became a simple new pleasure that brought a smile to my face. I will never cut an apple any other way again. Just think, I have missed this amazing sight all of my life until today. Try it next time you cut into an apple and you will find that "hidden treasure" as well. I hope it brings a smile to your face too!!
As I look back on 2008, I have to say, "It has been an awesome journey". This Christmas season was especially wonderful for me. All of my children and grandchildren were home this year. There is nothing sweeter or more fulfilling to a mother's heart than to be able to look around the room and be reminded of just how special each individual person truly is. There are 15 of us now, each one unique and each one equally important in making us "Family". I will treasure every single second of our time together. (I would include some photos but I haven't learned how to do that yet...maybe that will be a resolution for the new year!!)
Speaking of resolutions, I looked back on some of the ones I made last year. Some of them I kept pretty well, others not so much. That won't stop me from trying again or striving for new ones in the year ahead. How about you, what would you like to accomplish in 2009? Whether we've been to the mountain top or through the valley in 2008, those things are behind us. To know Jesus and the power of His resurrection, we must run the race in front of us. I have been seeking God's direction and though I don't have all the answers yet, I know He will direct my path. He is leading me in several areas and projects for the days ahead and I will share more about that in a later blog. For now, I want to slow down enough that I might see through His eyes the things around me that are important to Him.
Staying well is another priority for me in 2009. God has brought me through so much the past two years and I praise Him for that. Most days I don't even think about cancer anymore unless I have to go in for a test or for a check up with the doctors. My next appointment is on Jan. 26th and I covet your prayers. When the results come in, I will let you know. Until then, I will press forward with confidence knowing that God is in control and simply enjoy 2009 and whatever it should bring. Happy New Year dear friends.
I love you guys,
Judy
Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
**P.S. Have you ever had one of those moments that brought you an unexpected smile? I just love it when God reveals something special to me and today it was through, of all things, "AN APPLE".
It was mid-afternoon and I was ready for a little snack so I washed an apple and when I went to cut it in half I accidentally cut it from the side instead of my usual way from the stem at the top. When it fell open, right there "hidden" in the center of the apple was a perfect 5-pointed star!! My little mistake became a simple new pleasure that brought a smile to my face. I will never cut an apple any other way again. Just think, I have missed this amazing sight all of my life until today. Try it next time you cut into an apple and you will find that "hidden treasure" as well. I hope it brings a smile to your face too!!
Thursday, December 25, 2008
An EXTRA-Ordinary Night
Merry Christmas Everyone,
I hope you all have a wonderful day surrounded by those you love as you celebrate this special time together. Before we begin to tackle all those gifts under the tree I wanted to share this message with you that I found (and copied) from my devotional book this morning. It was just too good to keep to myself. Imagine this as we slept last night! Hope it will be a blessing to you as well.
An EXTRA-Ordinary Night:
An ordinary night with ordinary sheep and ordinary shepherds. And were it not for God who loves to hook an "extra" on the front of the ordinary, the night would have gone unnoticed. The sheep would have been forgotten, and the shepherds would have slept the night away.
But God dances amidst the common. And that night he did a waltz.
The black sky exploded with brightness. Trees that had been shadows jumped into clarity. Sheep that had been silent became a chorus of curiosity. One minute the shepherd was dead asleep, the next he was rubbing his eyes and staring into the face of an angel.
THE NIGHT WAS ORDINARY NO MORE!!!
(Luke 2:11)-Today your Savior was born in the town of David. He is Christ the Lord.
Christmas blessings and love,
Judy
I hope you all have a wonderful day surrounded by those you love as you celebrate this special time together. Before we begin to tackle all those gifts under the tree I wanted to share this message with you that I found (and copied) from my devotional book this morning. It was just too good to keep to myself. Imagine this as we slept last night! Hope it will be a blessing to you as well.
An EXTRA-Ordinary Night:
An ordinary night with ordinary sheep and ordinary shepherds. And were it not for God who loves to hook an "extra" on the front of the ordinary, the night would have gone unnoticed. The sheep would have been forgotten, and the shepherds would have slept the night away.
But God dances amidst the common. And that night he did a waltz.
The black sky exploded with brightness. Trees that had been shadows jumped into clarity. Sheep that had been silent became a chorus of curiosity. One minute the shepherd was dead asleep, the next he was rubbing his eyes and staring into the face of an angel.
THE NIGHT WAS ORDINARY NO MORE!!!
(Luke 2:11)-Today your Savior was born in the town of David. He is Christ the Lord.
Christmas blessings and love,
Judy
Thursday, December 11, 2008
THREE PERFECT GIFTS
Everywhere I go these days there seems to be a feeling of "busy-ness" in the air. It's that time of year again when we run around trying to get everything ready for the upcoming holiday season. But, are we so burdened down trying to make Christmas so special, that we fail to see these "3 perfect gifts" that we already have?
The Gift of God's Son:
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Begotten Son"........He left Heaven to be this gift to us, the very reason we celebrate the Christmas season! Don't be burdened down with so many things to do. Slow down and raise your eyes and welcome HIM into your celebration, into your home and into your heart. He truly is the "most precious gift" we will ever receive!
The Gift of God's Grace:
Grace, the love and favor that God shows toward us. We don't do anything to deserve this grace but God gives it to us anyway. What if God's only gift to you this year was his grace to save you. Would you take it freely? Would you be content? From heaven's perspective; "grace is enough". His love and favor should make us content no matter the circumstances. Thank you God for your gift of grace---it is sufficient for our every need!
The Gift of His Promise:
"I will never leave you---I will come again". Not only was He born a baby so that we might know Him, He gave his live so that we might live with him! From the beginning of time this was God's plan and His promise for our lives. He is coming again and we will reign with him forever. Thank you for that promise. Because He lives we CAN face tomorrow.
So, which gift is more important.....The Gift of His Birth?
The Gift of His Grace?
The Gift of His Promise?
They are ALL essential, all of these are the evidence of Our Father's Love. So, this year, take all of these three gifts and hold them dear. They are greater than any gift you will find under your tree. Merry Christmas dear friends!
Always close in thought and prayer.
I love you guys,
Judy
His Birth: Luke 7-14-She brought forth her first born-son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger......
His Grace: 2Corinthians 12:9-My race is sufficient for thee.
His Promise: John 14:3-And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there you may be also.
The Gift of God's Son:
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Begotten Son"........He left Heaven to be this gift to us, the very reason we celebrate the Christmas season! Don't be burdened down with so many things to do. Slow down and raise your eyes and welcome HIM into your celebration, into your home and into your heart. He truly is the "most precious gift" we will ever receive!
The Gift of God's Grace:
Grace, the love and favor that God shows toward us. We don't do anything to deserve this grace but God gives it to us anyway. What if God's only gift to you this year was his grace to save you. Would you take it freely? Would you be content? From heaven's perspective; "grace is enough". His love and favor should make us content no matter the circumstances. Thank you God for your gift of grace---it is sufficient for our every need!
The Gift of His Promise:
"I will never leave you---I will come again". Not only was He born a baby so that we might know Him, He gave his live so that we might live with him! From the beginning of time this was God's plan and His promise for our lives. He is coming again and we will reign with him forever. Thank you for that promise. Because He lives we CAN face tomorrow.
So, which gift is more important.....The Gift of His Birth?
The Gift of His Grace?
The Gift of His Promise?
They are ALL essential, all of these are the evidence of Our Father's Love. So, this year, take all of these three gifts and hold them dear. They are greater than any gift you will find under your tree. Merry Christmas dear friends!
Always close in thought and prayer.
I love you guys,
Judy
His Birth: Luke 7-14-She brought forth her first born-son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger......
His Grace: 2Corinthians 12:9-My race is sufficient for thee.
His Promise: John 14:3-And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there you may be also.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
NOTEWORTHY NOVEMBER
Ah.....November, the morning air so crisp and cool, the scent of logs burning in a fireplace somewhere near by, the colored leaves as they light up in the sunshine! Is not this a most wonderful month? Thank you, Lord, for the autumn season. No one could have planned it more beautifully than you.
November, the month we celebrated our freedom to vote. I am thankful for that privilege, aren't you? America has been blessed beyond measure. Thank you to our founders who acted on faith and drafted a Constitution based on biblical values that have formed this unique government of-by-and-for the people. Perhaps the candidates of our choice did not win this year. We still were able to celebrate "the freedom" to cast our vote! New leaders will come and go but, it is the Lord in whom we trust. Our money, when printed, states that fact. Look at a dollar bill and you will find these very words, "In God we trust". In January, 2009, our new president will be sworn into office and we, as Christians, must be even more committed in the days to come to give God, and our country, our very best. "May God continue to bless America"!
November, that is the month that I was born (62 years ago to be exact). My, how time passes so swiftly. It was on my 21st birthday that Marvin and I went to apply for our marriage license..."41 life-changing years ago"!! It has been a wonderful life and I cherish every precious moment. Thank you, Lord for your blessings on me.
And, last but not least, at the end of the month of November, we gather to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. It is easy to give thanks when all is going well, when we anticipate a great family gathering, good food and fond memories. "Thanksgiving once a year-----that is easy. But, "thanks living" EVERY DAY, that's what it's all about! Happy November. May your blessings be many and your "thanks living" shine bright!
I love you guys,
Judy
Psalm 92:1 It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord
November, the month we celebrated our freedom to vote. I am thankful for that privilege, aren't you? America has been blessed beyond measure. Thank you to our founders who acted on faith and drafted a Constitution based on biblical values that have formed this unique government of-by-and-for the people. Perhaps the candidates of our choice did not win this year. We still were able to celebrate "the freedom" to cast our vote! New leaders will come and go but, it is the Lord in whom we trust. Our money, when printed, states that fact. Look at a dollar bill and you will find these very words, "In God we trust". In January, 2009, our new president will be sworn into office and we, as Christians, must be even more committed in the days to come to give God, and our country, our very best. "May God continue to bless America"!
November, that is the month that I was born (62 years ago to be exact). My, how time passes so swiftly. It was on my 21st birthday that Marvin and I went to apply for our marriage license..."41 life-changing years ago"!! It has been a wonderful life and I cherish every precious moment. Thank you, Lord for your blessings on me.
And, last but not least, at the end of the month of November, we gather to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. It is easy to give thanks when all is going well, when we anticipate a great family gathering, good food and fond memories. "Thanksgiving once a year-----that is easy. But, "thanks living" EVERY DAY, that's what it's all about! Happy November. May your blessings be many and your "thanks living" shine bright!
I love you guys,
Judy
Psalm 92:1 It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord
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