"I close my eyes lest the sun thru such lenses set me afire..."

Run...Don't Walk...Fly...

2012-01-04T18:09:00.001-06:00

Life goes by. Moves on. Christmas has come and gone. It was beautiful, full of love, fun, food, fellowship, and presents. The tree was taken down yesterday, the house cleaned and a new year has officially started.

I feel good about this year. I am nervous because I am hoping to pray and learn and let God show me what I should be doing different here.

God is continually showing us what he does, how he works. In December he gave 100 woman hope in Leon. The gold balloon says: "thanks for life". This is something he does every day. No matter what.

God continues to move in so many ways. New jobs, new places, new friends, new babies and also the same friends. God is continually working all over in his own way.

Let us all get excited and start this new year with the spark that God already has in our hearts. He is ready and willing to guide us, to give us what we ask for and what he knows we need. Let his spark of love fill you and let your talents be used. Let the places you will go and the place you are be the place that you do whatever you can to your fullest. Don't hold back, let your talents be used and finish what you start. Give in to your desire to really do something, not just talk about something.

God has show me he is here, he is working, and he is blessing. Lets start this year right, working and living like we really believe this. Thank You God for life. Now, lets really live it!!!!

Why would you ever complain, O Jacob,
   or, whine, Israel, saying,
"God has lost track of me.
   He doesn't care what happens to me"?
Don't you know anything? Haven't you been listening?
God doesn't come and go. God lasts.
   He's Creator of all you can see or imagine.
He doesn't get tired out, doesn't pause to catch his breath.
   And he knows everything, inside and out.
He energizes those who get tired,
   gives fresh strength to dropouts.
For even young people tire and drop out,
   young folk in their prime stumble and fall.
But those who wait upon God get fresh strength.
   They spread their wings and soar like eagles,
They run and don't get tired,
   they walk and don't lag behind.

Isaiah 40:30-31

The Message (MSG)

End of the Year!

2011-12-22T12:06:00.001-06:00

Its the end of the Year.. Christmas and New Years just around the corner... Take some time to reflect and to be thankful!!! God bless

How important is your Husband?

2011-10-22T18:48:00.001-05:00

Lately I have been studying with some young women about future and marriage. It has been good for me to look back these 13 years of marriage and 15 years of being friends with my husband and see all the things I have learned. I do not know how much I actually helped these young ladies, I hope that at least I have put into their hearts and minds the importance of choosing a mate and most of all being a HELPMATE while having a personal walk with Jesus daily..... I found this website that looks good and I will challenge myself and all married women that see this to try it:

30 days - to encourage your husband.... It could be the start of a wonderful way to be that Helpmate we know we should be!

Happy month!!!!

September - I learned freedom....again

2011-10-04T17:21:00.001-05:00

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.

So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. Galatians 5:13 - 26

La Cañada

Ice Cream fair

Independence Day Fun

Gonzalez Family visits:

Fun in the Metro: Mexico City

Omar teaching in Mexico City

This month I learned so much about freedom in Christ from studies, lessons I have heard, and many talks with other brothers and sisters in Christ. One thing that stuck with me is that God is in the center of my life, not me... which makes me FREE. This freedom is so great that Galatians 5 had a new meaning to me. Instead of worrying about what I could do to serve humbly, I was free to serve any chance I could, to love all the people that God put in my path. Freedom to serve and love became a normal flow of life. Just as daily mundane things I did also changed, because I saw how I could love people with it. I have had the opportunity this month to share that love and serve people in the community we work with here in Leon called La Cañada, and in Mexico City. I also had the opportunity to teach the ladies twice at our bible class breakfast, which was not planned, just fell into my lap. I saw women and children serving each other in the different church events we did and I saw people growing in their fruits in the Spirit. I was truly blessed this month in many ways and God used me, even when I was tired and did not know he was going to use me. Just one more thing that proved to me that I was not the center, but God. Over all, September went by fast, but I will always thank God for what I learned this month...

Rule of Life

2011-09-29T18:27:00.003-05:00

To many the idea of creating a Rule of Life seems distant, even uncomprehensible. It is hard to imagine that we all have a rhythm or drive in life that moves and motivates us. What I have just come to realize is that I already have a rule of life, a way I live and rhythm of my life.

What I have decided is that I want to make my own rhythm to be purposeful, to have meaning, and most of all to be ahead and plan what and where I want my life to go, and not wait for life to move me, not wait for circumstances to decide.

I have to say that my husband has been working on his "rule of life" in a class he is taking and it has me thinking. I will be thinking and covering these areas: worship & confession, offerings, prayer, scripture readings and other reading, sharing of faith, ministry, hobbies, and daily decisions regarding health, hope and family. There are endless areas to work on, I will be working on these... When I think of a way to write it up I will see how it works out and how I get to a desired work. I will be informing as I go along... thanks.

September 14 - Inspiration....

2011-09-14T09:15:00.000-05:00

A great friend gave me a calendar that has inspirational quotes on it. The wonderful thing is that it has no year... so I can reuse it every year. The funny thing is that I never read a quote and think: “I already read that one...” It is always new to me and always motivating. Today’s quote is: “‘For the mountains may depart and the hills disappear, but My kindness shall not leave you. My promise of peace for you will never be broken.’ says the Lord who has mercy upon you.” - Isaiah 54:10 TLB.

Todays quote is interesting to me for two reasons.

One: His promise of peace... If he promises peace... what is going on? The more I thought about it as I sipped my coffee (need to drink more water in the mornings!) I realized that Jesus does not promise peace in this world, nor does God. His peace is with us. We are at peace with Him.

That is why number two: He has mercy upon us, is so important. His mercy gave us salvation, which in turn gives us peace with God.

Now I am saying all this for my sake, I need it. I need to realize that all that passes on this earth passes... I cannot control the sin in others or the things that people do that hurt me. I can, stay with His kindness, His mercy and be at Peace with him. He promises that....

We have had a long summer. I am behind in lots, and lots and lots of stuff, but today the mountains are still here, the hills have not disappeared, and I am ready to stop worrying and start working again. Start doing what I know my talents are in God and start letting him use me again.

I publicly admit I have been hiding, not using my gifts and I feel it. I am not going to do that anymore. I see that I have always had peace with God, always had mercy from Him. That is his promise.

God. Thank you for life, for love, for friends. Thank you for all our gifts. Thank you for your promises. - Amen.

TRANSFORMED - INSIDE OUT

2011-06-30T13:23:00.000-05:00

It is amazing to me how quickly people forget who they are. So many people who once knew and had so much faith that there is a God who created us, who wants us to Know Him and his son. People who know the purpose in life is freedom in Christ and since inside they are “on the right track” everything else falls into place and peace reigns, even through trials and struggles.

Daily I struggle with this very idea. I quickly forget who I am, worrying about what type of vitamins I am taking, if my retirement is good enough, if my diplomas and my work are enough to make me feel successful and happy. I check to make sure the exercise I do is the right to lose the weight where I want... I read magazines trying to find the best outfits for the “seasons” according to what the “experts” say. Scanning for pictures of what I should add to my house to make it the most beautifully decorated as possible. All the outward work I do, hoping that it will help me inwardly, to know who I am, all the while worrying about what others think.

This approach, outward work to get to an inward peace or joy... Has not worked in the last 35 years of my life...

So, I want to do something new. I started that with my class of Hebrews that we had with the women the past few months.

I decided we all needed to learn how to study the bible not with any outwardly work, but for us, individually to be inwardly transformed and “enlightened” in what God really wants from us.

It has been a great class and what I learned out of all of it is that If we really are “enlightened” or Know who God is and why he created us, then we will never desire to leave Him or his grace. The women in the class taught me more than I could ever have taught them.
The best thing that has come out of this class is the fact that all the women in it are discipling and learning together, growing in Christ and God’s grace, passing on that inward peace to others.

I am continuing to learn, by far not an expert in anything. I am filled with grace and joy, thankful that God gives me each day to grow in Him.

-- It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age and who have fallen[c] away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace. Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned.

Even though we speak like this, dear friends, we are convinced of better things in your case—the things that have to do with salvation. God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised

When God made his promise to Abraham, since there was no one greater for him to swear by, he swore by himself, saying, “I will surely bless you and give you many descendants.” And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised.

People swear by someone greater than themselves, and the oath confirms what is said and puts an end to all argument. Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath. God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.--

- Hebrews 6:4-20.

My Baby Girl turns 8!! - Create Memories!

2011-06-29T13:56:00.000-05:00

Life goes by too fast. Work, wishes, dreams, thoughts...they all pass by in a fleeting moment. I seem to never be able to keep up with what I want to do, don't even get me started on the stuff I should do that I am behind on!!!
Many months ago I realized that my children are growing and (don't make fun of me) I realized I can't stop it! I know... It should be logical, but as a mom you forget your baby will not be your baby.

My daughter is growing so fast, she help around the house, reads, plays and has her own personality in all she does.
One thing I realized with my kids is that I want to create great memories with them, because one day I will only be a bunch of memories to them... It is a sad fact, but one day when they think of me, it may just be memories they have and I want to leave them some good ones.
Since I can't stop time, I will take advantage of every moment! With my family and other things as well.
Hopefully I will catch up to what I need and want to do, but until then I will live every day creating great memories!

April Newsletter

2011-05-16T11:19:00.000-05:00

Here it is.... Love all who take the time to love us, pray for us, and of course actually take the time to read my blog!!! Tana

My Experience from Come Before Winter - Part I

2011-04-02T21:05:00.000-06:00

Come Before Winter....

“Do your best to come to me quickly, for Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry. I sent Tychicus to Ephesus. When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, and my scrolls, especially the parchments.

Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done. You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message.

At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” - 2 Timothy 4:9-18 (New International Version)

Come Before Winter is a great organization. A group of women that wanted to serve women doing ministry. They know that stress can occur in this type of work do and I can’t say enough about the blessing it was to be a part of the last retreat they did in Honduras.

Not only did I meet new women who are my fellow workers and sisters in Christ, but I renewed long-lasting and fulfilling relationships. The staff and women who taught us and loved on us made us feel loved and more than anything, they listened.

Going into the retreat I felt as Paul did here in Timothy. That I was alone. But after being ministered too and being with women who prayed over me and taught me new ways to study and be with God I felt as he did later on in the verse: “But the Lord Stood by my side.”

Verse 18 says: “The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack...safely to his heavenley kingdom.”

I am not sure where I will go from here and if my ministry will change, but one thing I do know.

I now know I am not alone, that God is with me. I am refreshed and renewed and I will sing Come before Winter’s praises to anyone that would like to here.

Next time I will be writing about specific things that will be and are changing in my life but today I wanted to spend time showing you all this great organization and praise God for putting this work in these women’s Hearts. Praise the Lord! Oh my Soul!!!!!

Come Before Winter has a great site:

Their MISSION

Giving glory to God, we will encourage women in ministry by:

Equipping them with advanced Bible study skills

Honoring them for their efforts and sacrifices

Providing opportunities to discuss their own struggles and needs

Reinforcing their value as vital assets of the body of Christ locally, nationally, and worldwide

Promoting unity among women in ministry around the world

If you are a minister or missionary working in the areas where these retreats will be held, I strongly recommend you check out your eligibility to attend. you will never regret it. ---- Tana

Time in Fellowship

Fun

Old and New Friends

Mothers and daughters...

2011-03-12T22:57:00.000-06:00

When My daughter was born I was amazed. I was 27 and I had just finished college. I thought since I was older and "wiser" (ha ha) that it would be great....And it was. But it turned out to be much more a responsibility than I thought.
I had always heard from people to wait until I was ready...I thought I was. But then I realized... there are things in life you just can't be really ready for. You can plan, you can discuss, read books, pray, talk to experts... but until you really just jump into something you don't know exactly how it will be.
I was amazed at how fast she grew and how much I loved her and wanted to be with her all the time...missed her when I was not with her.
I realized that I was her mother but that if I wanted her to have a good life, I needed to let her be God's daughter too.
Right Away I realized that she copied me... observed all that I did and said. When I realized that... I decided from that day I needed to have my life and my faith true and always moving...growing...not to only be better in my life, but to leave a trail of habits and works that I could be proud of if she followed and copied me.
It has not been easy...will not be easy. But I am working daily on loving her and loving God and being an example for her.
We talk, we cry, we fight, we pray and sing together. God is working on both of us...

Fathers,do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4

Since I have had children this verse is always floating in my mind. What can I do to not only train them up in the Lord, but NOT exasperate them...
It is a daily struggle. I am so happy that I have the opportunity to love them and to be with them and I would not change being a mother for the world.
My sisters and I are all mothers now...It is a wonderful thing to get to share with them too.

I pray for you that you all have someone to learn from and share parenting stories with, God created us for community and to learn and love each other. It is one of the best parts of parenting...sharing...God Bless...

My baby girl and I

Kasi and my niece Anneleise

Jess and my niece Tana

News!!!!

2011-02-22T20:11:00.000-06:00

Picking at the Heart of it.

2011-01-31T10:21:00.000-06:00

For a few weeks now I have had a scab inside my nose. “gross” you say... Well, I have it...oh well. For as much as I want to get rid of it, it won’t go away. I have tried picking it (again...yuck!!), putting cream, nasal spray, Vaseline, and I have even tried praying that I could be healed.

For as much as I try to get rid of that darn scab it stays. I think about it all the time and if it finally feels better at night after all my medicinal techniques then in the morning it aches again and feels like it has grown even bigger. Even when I am doing something else, I find myself picking at it even when I am not consciously thinking about it.

This scab is a true annoyance and I am constantly talking about it to someone or messing with it, but it just won’t heal!

This whole scab mess got me thinking about other things in my life that just don’t seem to go away...like anxiousness or worries.

No matter how much I pray to not worry, I think about it all day. There are days that I am talking to others about the worries I have, praying about them, asking others to pray. I have tried all the techniques to get rid of the worries too and nothing works!

Then today I read:

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit. The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” - Jeremiah 17:7-9

I also read: “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.” - Luke 6: 46 - 49

You think that these verses do not have much in common. Let me roll out more of my sporadic thought.
When I read Jeremiah I first thought that I am doing to my nose what I am doing to my worries. The key word being (I). I am not letting God work, not trusting in him. Just as I am all-consumed by the scab...I am all consumed by my worries. I am not letting the Lord work. I am saying that I can fix the problem. “if I just pray enough, tell enough people, try all the new remedies.” I was not “planting myself” in God’s word, not letting his trust and confidence run through me.

Does this verse in Jeremiah mean we will not have problems, persecutions, trials, worries etc...? No, it means that we have who we can confide in when these pass. We can be blessed, resting in God who we trust and we will be like “trees planted by the water that sends its roots by the stream.” An endless supply of life.

In Luke I thought of the fruit I give. I sometimes feel that if I just stick some fruit on my tree I can fix the problems I have. Again I am taking away from God working in me.

“Just give me some more duct tape... I know I can stick these peaches on this apple tree!”

Ha! I am not working on changing the tree so the fruit comes out good. Just as Jesus says, can my apple tree bring out peaches? If the tree is bad is that the fruits’ fault or the whole tree? The fruit is just the result.

God was telling me that trying to control my worries was like me saying that my tree is producing a certain fruit when it is not.

I pray that I can let God completely transform me. To be the tree that I should be, bearing the fruit appropriately. I can lay at his feet my worries, rest in him and let him help me so that that I can grow and my endless resource can be HIM. I can produce fruit and love and pass them on and in this way teach to others that He and only he can help. We are doing our part when the fruit is correct for our tree and our tree is planted in Him.

Now I am rambling, but what I want to say is this:

We are going to have worries, we need to not deal with them ourselves and with this God can help us, grow us, and we will have more resources than we ever imagined. We will be strong and God can use us...come more trails or problems...God is there.

Our fruit can be good, we can be transformed in many ways and beginning with how we deal with problems and worries can be a great start.

What to do?

2011-01-25T13:24:00.000-06:00

On Saturday I took my four year old son to a play date at a friends house. I had previously told the parents that I would not leave him, but instead, stay while the kids played and get to know them.
We arrived at 11a.m. with cake in hand. === We stayed till 5p.m!!!!!
I do live on the mission field, I do dedicate most of my time to teaching the bible, but I am not by nature or gifts what we would call an evangelist...
This couple is studying their bible with some home church groups here and had at least 2 million questions. (I am not an exaggerator! Ok maybe a little) The thing is that I answered all the questions they gave me. Water in hand, sweat beads across the brow, I was able to muddle my way through my faith in Christ and why I believe what I believe.
At the end of the day I was mentally exhausted, but I realized something... We can all answer for our faith.
I had not studied before hand, I did pray to be a good example to them (not knowing that they were going to be this inquisitive).
In the end what do any of us do daily to share our faith?

Lead by example: just be the faithful christian we are... people will notice
Proclaim our faith: If someone asks us... tell them. I am no expert and I did it (I still don't believe it)
Pray for them... I am also thankful for those people who started this couple on the road to studying and searching the word of God for themselves... God uses many so pray for all his workers too.
Love and serve people.

I think the biggest thing I learned this weekend was that we all have great power in us because Christ is in us.
Look at all the people that come from poor and little resource backgrounds and are able to do so much in life... How do they do it?
Hard work, dedication, practice...
all those things we can do too.. prayer, mediation, reading of the word... We can learn new things and we can share them with others...
I have learned that I have no excuse as to why I do not better my walk with God and even less excuse to not share it when necessary.
I will be praying for all my friends and family that they too can see the great works and service they all can do...
It is possible.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Hebrews 12:1-3

What is Greatness?

2011-01-21T09:30:00.000-06:00

This morning walking back from the park I felt the best I had all week. Not because I was exercising. I was blessed to run into the mother of Emma’s ballet teacher. She was walking over to my neighborhood.

Maria is 78 years old and lived and worked most of her life in Cuba. When her daughter was received by a ballet group in Spain and her husband passed away she traveled with her. They eventually came to live here in Leon. She has worked and served her family her whole life. She usually is the one who takes the money and checks role at the ballet classes but I mentioned to her that I had not see her since classes started in January.

She went on to explain her whole working life since Cuba and how she finally found out she wanted to go back to school and learn. She was on her way to a class that teaches crochet and then she was going to meet her daughter for lunch.

She felt as if she was ready to “retire.”

What made me feel good was that She was so happy to be able to talk to someone, that someone listened to her. I do not feel in any way I am great or that I told her anything great. I tried to be the love and reflection of Jesus Christ.

Greatness is not what we can accomplish. I do not even believe it is in the fact that we have faith in God and then go out and change the world. Greatness, I believe, is knowing that God is in us, that we can show our love to others and pass on Christ’s love to others, whether that is listening to a widow as you walk, helping children who have no resources, battered women, missionaries, families etc....

In Luke 4: 46 - 48 The disciples ask about greatness.

“An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest. Jesus, knowing their thoughts, took a little child and had him stand beside him. Then he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.’”

This morning it was good to remember that greatness is not always what we think it is as the world defines it. If you think about the “great” or famous people of the day, do they really experience greatness in their lives?

Waking up daily and what ever is on our plate, doing the best we can with it. Why do we see people with cancer doing so many things, living and loving life, or poor or rich people the same way? If they have found this greatness as Jesus talks about it; that is why.

Yes I feel good, but because I was able to let a woman see the love of Christ through me and that really is not that great in the world’s point of view, but we can be a fan, be a prayer warrior, be a worker, a teacher...we can learn from others and we can remember that we are in the kingdom and part of the kingdom of God. Jesus is our example of Greatness and the biggest example is when he went to the cross...not the idea of greatness in the world.

My question is what is greatness (or lack of it) to you?

Crazy Naked Man and saying NO....

2011-01-18T22:15:00.000-06:00

“No... I don’t want to do that...” “No, I can’t, I’m too tired.” “No, I don't’ really have the time to do that now.”

These are all of my familiar phrases I have used the past 6 years while living and working here in Leon. As a missionary/church planter/ disciple maker (depends on who you talk too...) wife, mother, and woman, I always have reasons why I can’t work and teach about Jesus.

The funny thing is, I say all of these things usually right before I DO them.

“No, I don’t feel prepared enough to teach a class.” - A few days (or sometimes minutes) before I DO teach it.

I really have no point but one - I said I couldn’t or wouldn’t do many things...then did them all...and I am still here...I still have my sanity (many of you who know me will stop reading now to throw your head back, laugh profoundly and then go back to reading...) I still am a mother, wife and woman. I still have friends and quiet times and really lots of fun!

As women who work in ministry we need to always remember who is backing us up and when to say No and mean it, but also when to realize we should have said yes and DO.

What do I mean? Sometimes we put up protective walls around us, which in ministry positions is necessary but not always the best. We need to know when God is telling us, “You came here to do this...so DO it.”

And really think about it...you know when you should do it, when that one person asks for your advice or for you to share how you teach children.

When that one mother asks you to teach her how to pray for her children or her husband.

That one time in a ladie’s class when all look to you for your ideas...you are made for this...you are the one in the position to do it.

Many times I believe this to be the biggest problem for me... I know the commitments I have made but many times I have a hard time believing I am the one they look up too, that I am the one that should teach...

How do we know? Pray, lots of prayer. Advice from our husbands (yes ladies they really do love us and want the best, so they will help us decide if it is “go time” or “no time.”

One last thought I had....Sometimes we are just the ones that all look at as if we are crazy...but we are not crazy... we are FIRM in our belief...In what we know and feel and we are not ashamed to share that with one woman or 100 children...

I want you to look at a verse in Mark 14: 51 - 52 -

A young man, wearing nothing but a linen garment, was following Jesus. When they seized him, he fled naked, leaving his garment behind.

Why is this verse important? He stood his ground when no one else did? The verse before this is very important “then everyone deserted him and fled.” (him being Jesus)

EVERYONE deserted Jesus but this crazy naked man wearing nothing but a linen garment.

I read this and wondered why Mark put this in.

In my opinion it is so we know that this one man was not afraid, did not desert Jesus and then when he was captured he did get away, but barely (he he..).

For us (or at least me) this means a lot. I may be crazy, I may say “yes” too many times. But, I do feel as if I sometimes need this push, need to be at Jesus’s feet no matter what, just as this man stayed till the end, I will keep checking my “no” and making sure it is not supposed to be a “yes.”

“If God is for us...” you know the rest...

“We can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens us.”

So...I have been blessed when I say yes. God has given me quiet times, times with family and friends and I still say no many times.

When I was an Aimer our coordinator’s wife told us she prayed that God would let her help one person each day. That was her prayer each morning and she did it.

Start there. Start small, but don’t shy away, don’t flee, but stay. God will protect and God will Bless...

Tana

New Year

2011-01-17T10:15:00.000-06:00

Just read a great article by Joyce Meyers:

2010-12-01T10:30:00.002-06:00

Everyday Answers

The Cause and Cure for Worry

by Joyce Meyer

Worry, feeling uneasy or troubled, seems to plague multitudes of people in our world today. It’s human nature to be concerned about the bad situations in our world and in our personal lives, but if we're not careful, the devil will cause us to worry beyond what’s reasonable. Worry is like a rocking chair—it’s always in motion but it never gets you anywhere. So why do we struggle with it? And what good does it do? Worry is the opposite of faith, and it steals our peace, physically wears us out, and can even make us sick. When we worry, we torment ourselves—we're doing the devil's job for him! Worry is caused by not trusting God to take care of the various situations in our lives. Too often we trust our own abilities, believing that we can figure out how to take care of our own problems. Yet sometimes, after all our worry and effort to go it alone, we come up short, unable to bring about suitable solutions.

At a young age, I discovered firsthand that people hurt people, so I didn't trust others. I tried to take care of myself, deciding not to depend on anyone who would hurt or disappoint me. Too often our experiences in the world teach us this, and even after we become Christians, it takes a long time to overcome it. It’s difficult to learn how to trust God, but we eventually must learn that trying to take care of everything ourselves is too big a task.

CAST YOUR CARES ON THE ONE WHO CARES FOR YOU

First Peter 5:6,7 says, Therefore humble yourselves [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you, casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully. Since Jesus invites us to cast all of our care and worry on Him, why do so many of us refuse to let go? Apparently, we’re not yet fed up with being miserable.

The only way to have victory in our lives is to play by God's rules, and He says we must quit worrying if we want to have peace. So when things come our way that cause us to be concerned, we need God's help. How do we get it? First Peter 5:6,7 lists two important steps: 1) humble yourselves, and 2) cast your care on Him. That seems pretty clear and simple, yet some continue struggling because they’re too bullheaded to ask for help. But the humble get the help. So if your way isn't working, why not try God's way? All of us would be better off if we’d learn to lean on God and ask for His help. But as long as we try to do everything ourselves, God will let us. He won’t take care of our problems and worries—our cares—until we turn loose of them and give them to Him. Either we’re going to do it or God's going to do it, but both of us aren’t going to. Now, casting your care doesn't mean you can be irresponsible. God won’t do for you what you can do yourself. You must do what you can do, and then trust God to do what you can’t. When we humble ourselves and ask for His help, then He’s able to release His power in our situations. It’s only then that we can really enjoy life. So the cure for worry is humbling ourselves before God, casting our cares on Him, and trusting Him. Instead of making ourselves miserable trying to figure everything out on our own, God wants us to place our trust in Him and enter into His rest, totally abandoning ourselves to His care. I know that when we are able to believe and say, "God, I trust You," it will literally change our lives. Psalm 37:3 says, Trust…in the Lord and do good.... God didn't create us to worry about helping ourselves all the time. He wants us to sow good seed by reaching out to help others. When we simply trust God and get busy doing the good things we know to do, then He’ll bring a harvest of blessings into our lives and meet our needs.

DEVELOP AN ATTITUDE OF FAITH AND PRAYER

I’ve learned that my attitude has a lot to do with living a worry-free life. There will always be situations that cause us concern, but with God's help, we can live above all of it and enjoy life. Cast your care on the Lord and say, "God, I trust You, and I'm going to enjoy the life You have given me." When you give your problems to God, you must also decide to be satisfied with His answers. Trusting God to do what's best for us involves dying to self. Paul said, ...it is no longer I who live, but Christ (the Messiah) lives in me; and the life I now live in the body I live by faith in (by adherence to and reliance on and complete trust in) the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself up for me (Galatians 2:20). You can trust God to do what's best for you, so you don't have to worry about it. When you have a positive attitude and keep your faith in God, you can’t be defeated.

We must stop trying to make things happen the way we want and get to the place where we desire to please God more than ourselves. The Christ in us has to supercede what we want. Faith and the Word of God will help you overcome worry. Worrying involves negative thoughts, but speaking positive things out of your mouth will interrupt those negative thought patterns. When we are full of the Word of God, we can speak it out of our mouths in faith. Faith is stronger than doubt, negativism and unbelief. Faith has a positive attitude that can overcome our past and lead us into a great future. Faith is a powerful force that cannot be conquered. Another powerful force is prayer. When you're under pressure, it’s always best to pray about it instead of talk about it. Prayer is the blueprint for a successful life. During His time on earth, Jesus prayed. He entrusted everything to God—even His reputation and life. We can do the same. We don't have to explain all the problems to Him; we can just give them to Him and ask Him to take care of everything. Don't complicate prayer. Just have confidence in simple, believing prayer.

Look at Paul's instructions in Philippians 4:6,7: Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. If you're a Christian who goes around burdened or weighed down all the time, something is wrong. You may have had faith in Christ for salvation, but you haven't moved into walking in faith daily for the life that God has given you. The Bible tells us that God is faithful—that's one of His major characteristics. He can be counted on to come through for us, so we should trust Him totally and completely. When we do, we’ll be ready for anything that may come our way.

ALLOW GOD TO GIVE YOU PEACE AND REST

In Matthew 11:28 Jesus said, Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.] Jesus wants to ease our burdens and give us rest. The Message Bible says it this way: Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly (Matthew 11:28-30). That sounds good, doesn't it? I've had enough heavy stuff in my life, and I want to be free. It's nice to know that we don't have to figure everything out. We need to get comfortable with saying, "I don't have a clue, but I'm not going to worry about it because God’s in control. I'm going to live free and light!" When we’re overloaded with the cares of this life—struggling, laboring and worrying—we need some help. Our minds need to rest from worrying about how to take care of problems, our emotions need to rest from being upset all the time, and our wills need a rest from stubbornness and rebellion. So we need to be humble enough to call out to God and say, "I need help!" Your beginning doesn't have to dictate your ending. Get God involved in every area of your life and allow Him to lead you into rest.

WORRY OR WORSHIP?

Worry and worship are exact opposites, and we’d all be much happier if we learned to become worshippers instead of worriers. Worry opens the door for the devil, but worship is reverence and adoration for God that leads us into His presence. God created us to worship Him, and I don't believe we can walk in victory if we don't become worshippers. Sometimes when we don't have what we need or want, the enemy tries to discourage us and keep us from worshipping God. But when we know that God has our best interests at heart, we can worship Him regardless of our circumstances. Remember, God is good even when our circumstances are not! God doesn't always give us our heart's desire right away. He wants us to develop a deep, personal relationship with Him and an outrageous love for Him so much so that we can't live without it. This kind of relationship and love brings the worshipful attitude that God wants us to have.

To worship means “to reverence,” or “to defer to.” We are to have reverential fear and awe of God. We are to respect and honor Him, and defer to Him by submitting to and obeying Him, and adapt ourselves to His will. We must realize that Christ, living in us, has come to lead and guide us into a special lifestyle of worship and victorious living. When Satan throws worry on you, I challenge you to stop what you're doing, get down on your knees before God, and begin praising Him. Worship is a spiritual weapon, a warhead or bomb you can use against the enemy. Your prayers and worship will get you heavenly help, and you won't have to fight your own battles. God's grace and power can make things happen with ease that you can't bring about no matter how much you struggle.

So stop worrying about everything, give it to God, and live in grace. Grace isn’t just divine favor—it’s power! Don't waste another day of your life worrying. Determine what your responsibility is and what it is not. Don't try to take on God's responsibility. When we do what we can do, God steps in and does what we can't. So give yourself and your worries to God and begin enjoying the abundant life He has planned for you.

Harry Potter wisdom?????

2010-10-07T22:57:00.000-05:00

J.K. Rowling quote from her speech Harvard University:
"So why do I talk about the benefits of failure? Simply because failure meant a stripping away of the inessential. I stopped pretending to myself that I was anything other than what I was, and began to direct all my energy into finishing the only work that mattered to me. Had I really succeeded at anything else, I might never have found the determination to succeed in the one arena I believed I truly belonged."

I know, I know. Everyone is talking about this part of the speech. But, maybe because it is so profound? Maybe even biblical?
Just as a Phoenix comes out of the ashes... is reborn... can start again... We too can start again..
It is profound... what else can we do when we know we are at rock bottom... why not get up and direct our energy into finishing our work??? our dreams???
When we look at the gospel of Christ... all that he has done for us, what else can we do but direct our energy towards the work we believe he has given us? The talents he has given us whether it is serving or teaching, loving or learning, preaching or praying? What do we have to lose?

Where do we start?

Hebrews 4:14-16
Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Jude 1:24-25To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy - to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.

Psalm 73:26My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever.

If someone who doesn't have a Christ centered life, with a hope and salvation that many Christians have, can have these revelations... then why do we not move? Why do I sometimes stay in the "ashes" instead of fly out of them with the wings of hope that come from the great High-Preist... the Savior God... The strength of My heart???

Failing means we have stripped away the inessential... we have already lived our fear... So.. Trust that Christ will be there.. He will pick you up when it is time to jump off that cloudy cliff again into the open crisp blue sky where all you can do is fly... Because you are not alone...

WELL at least this is what I want to do daily... daily... It is a daily process... I thank God he has given me another day to do it.... I pray you will have another day too!!!

The Life

2010-09-26T23:04:00.000-05:00

The life: Any woman who is a mother and wife will tell you: the life is full of percentages:
Mine consists of 90% mother and 10% wife some days. Other days it is reversed: 90% wife and 10% mother.
What? How can this be? Well. It is so mathematically advanced that I can't even explain.
I really just don't know.
God has given me a great husband and great children. But as needed I must give to them. I must be the one who disciples my kids, for, besides my husband, who else will? Am I going to leave it to the 25 minutes on Sunday that they have bible class? I don't think so.
On the other hand, my husband is God- given and he needs me. The bible is clear that he comes after God and before the kids. So, I must also give to him the time, love and effort he needs.
On a daily basis this percentage changes, but what does not change is my calling.
I may love to teach, write, read, be alone, or even play with our dog. But right now "The Life" needs to be more them. And guess what? That is OK..... Really. IT really is!!!
The Message: 1 Cor. 12: 4 - 11

^4-11God's various gifts are handed out everywhere; but they all originate in God's Spirit. God's various ministries are carried out everywhere; but they all originate in God's Spirit. God's various expressions of power are in action everywhere; but God himself is behind it all. Each person is given something to do that shows who God is: Everyone gets in on it, everyone benefits. All kinds of things are handed out by the Spirit, and to all kinds of people! The variety is wonderful:

wise counsel

clear understanding

simple trust

healing the sick

miraculous acts

proclamation

distinguishing between spirits

tongues

interpretation of tongues.

All these gifts have a common origin, but are handed out one by one by the one Spirit of God. He decides who gets what, and when.

I am learning that I do have many gifts and in my life I have and will use them. But as long as my children are small and my husband needs me, it is ok that the Holy spirit uses me right now to disciple them and to love them.

My father in -law says that many tell him: "you just got a great wife and great kids."

His answer is: "No, it takes work, sweat, prayer, discipleship, it does not just happen."

I am learning that it is true and I am willing.

"The Life" right now is good. It is well balanced because the Holy Spirit is guiding. Thank you Lord. for the "LIFE"

My Big Picture moment.

2010-09-15T23:09:00.000-05:00

Dusting pictures with my daughter on Thursday she noticed a picture of her and I when she was 2 years old. She is seven now. She said, "Hey mama, we look so different, wasn't I cute?"

"Your still cute." I said.

"One day I will be where you are and my daughter will be where I am in the picture, but where will you be?"

"If God allows me, I will be taking the picture sweetie." I murmured back.

Time flies!!! It is the oldest quote. Time really does, but we must enjoy every moment of it. In that moment with my daughter I saw a big picture. I have a great life, kids and husband that love me and a God who blesses me.

Why waste so much time whining and wondering why I haven't done things, and live in the NOW and DO things.

At this moment I realized it is not what I do, but HOW I live.

I love what they are doing over at bigger picture blogs. Check them out, read some. Get the bigger picture!! It is wonderful when it happens.....

August newlsetter

2010-09-10T16:56:00.000-05:00

Last month was a great journey for me. Closer to my family and my father God. Hope all is well with you all.

Letter from a Supporter

2010-08-21T09:04:00.000-05:00

Recently We had a family visit us, after leaving this is what they had to say to some congregations that support us:

“ Omar and Tana have been working for six years. They are now in their 2nd 5 year contract with us. This will see them through the year 2014. Omar and Tana are now the only remaining couple out of the original three couples. * One family left 2 years ago after the completion of their commitment. *And the second family has just left after six years. It is my belief that in each of those two cases these were basically American families ready to return to their home country.* Interestingly, these two families will be missed, but there are already in place others that are willing to assume the leadership in this mission effort. One *family is a missionary family from Toluca Mexico already in place there. They are supported from a congregation out of Dallas. Also a former aimer in Leon, has married a girl from Leon, and they are making their home there and assisting in the church work. This family* is being supported from their home congregation in Alaska. In addition to these, a new missionary* family is in place in Guanajuato, and is planting a congregation there now with the assistance of the Leon men. We in fact worshiped with that congregation a week ago Sunday.

As all these changes happen and the families departed, there has been extra burden on the leaders left. This is a time when Omar would prefer to be planting more churches. But both of the above mentioned Leon men are capable of sharing that burden as time goes on. So, Omar continues in his desire to

plant more churches. He does have after all a huge energy source at his

disposal with 2 AIM teams now in place.

With the vision these men have to plant more churches, everyone will be

needed to assist in these efforts. Yet, Omar in all his humility is in need of all our support and more. Our collaboration of small congregations (including yours) and individuals here in Texas make up about 75% (more or less) of Omar’s stated budget goals. Moreover, it is my understanding that the funding is probably just adequate for them to get by. This is sad, because who wants to just get by? And just getting by can be disheartening/discouraging...we need to encourage not discourage.

There in Leon are the building blocks for a great work throughout Mexico. These men have a special gift for evangelism. They want to see more and more souls won for Christ, and not just in that single congregation. But in congregations that plant other congregations that plant other congregations.

These are rare individuals, especially Omar Palafox. Much needs to be done to keep them in that field. There must be encouragement to everyone to stay committed to this valuable effort. Please consider these points, and thank you for the opportunity to partner together in this effort for our Master.

In closing, on this recent trip, I recalled a trip that my daughter and I made the year before Omar and Tana arrived In Leon. We were on an AIM trip to Mexico City, and while there she and I caught a bus and traveled to Leon. When we arrived Omar's parents met us and gave us a whirlwind tour of the city (we only had about 4 hours). From that trip, we decided to begin our partnership with this remarkable family. Now, some 7 or 8 years later, there are over 100 souls worshipping the Lord in Leon. There are young congregations in the cities of Tequila, Tepic, Tepatitlan, and Guanajuato. There have been over 25 Aimers that have served in Leon. There are now 2 former Aimers interning in Leon. The congregation has now sent a young man from their own to preaching school in Ecuador. And finally there are two Aimers that came from the Leon congregation just now on the field in Scotland. None of this could have been possible without the support of congregations assisting.

Please, let us do all we can and more to assist and support this wonderful effort in the city of Leon, Mexico.”

Best regards, ***

** Names have been taken out and changed for privacy***

May / June newsletter.... LATE....

2010-07-25T23:55:00.000-05:00

Today

2010-07-25T23:41:00.000-05:00

Being here on the mission field six years I have learned many things. Today I was reminded that I am not special at all. But, That Christ is. I can't believe all the things that I can do because God lives in me and Christ shines through me.
I thank the Lord that I am here and I can work for him because of Christ. I heard a sermon today where the preacher quoted James 5: 17: "Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years."

Elijah is one of my "faith heros", but he was "just a man." Does that mean that I am "just a woman" but can do awesome things for Christ becuase he lives in me???
I think so.
SO... No more back seat... No more waiting to be better.... NOW I will start doing what I know my talents are NOW I will work and do... There is no real excuse since I am just a woman, but God is working through me.
YOU CAN DO IT TO!!!!!
Love Ya. Tana

PEACE

2010-06-25T08:15:00.000-05:00

PEACE - RELAX - GOD is with us.... Now I really can start my day!!! Love you all!!!

Do you not know?

Have you not heard?

The LORD is the everlasting God,

the Creator of the ends of the earth.

He will not grow tired or weary,

and his understanding no one can fathom.

He gives strength to the weary

and increases the power of the weak.

Even youths grow tired and weary,

and young men stumble and fall;

but those who hope in the LORD

will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles;

they will run and not grow weary,

they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40: 28 - 31)

march 2010

2010-04-12T10:45:00.002-05:00

February newsletter

2010-03-05T20:08:00.000-06:00

jan newsletter.. Enjoy!

2010-02-01T17:59:00.000-06:00

ARGHHHHH

2010-01-25T20:06:00.000-06:00

Previous to the New Year I was writing like CRAZY... Now I have been frozen in time... I sit at the computer and can't think. I am distracted by Everything... I have started a million ideas and not finished ONE... BUt I will get there. Something that has happened recently is that I am teaching an evangelism class to women through Our "Laboratorio Bíblico" that we are offering at the Church here in Leon. It is every thursday for about two hours.

I really expected a few women to come (first because I am a hard teacher, I actually am requiring a lot of work and time and many or our members have families and jobs... I did not think they would want to . second because I asked them to buy a book and thirdly because I always think a little lower of my gifts than I should...) BUt, the opposite is happening, the class keeps getting bigger. It was up to 18 last week and I have been learning more from these women that I can believe.

I have learned in this new Year that God is alive, he works in small and in BIG ways and he is Always by my side.

SO, I have to move on, keep going forward and be ready to learn with HIM.

I also have learned that I am not frozen, I am just jello and I am warming up.. O I will be back soon, writing more things that come to me.... God is good and his Grace is everywhere and his Love is here to stay... Tana

__________________________________________________________________________________

El año pasado estaba escribiendo como loca!! Pero ahora estoy congelado...Me siento en la computadora y no puedo pensar! Todo me distrae. He empezado un millón de ideas y no he terminado UNA! Pero ya llegaré. Algo que ha pasado es que estoy enseñando una clase de evangelismo para mujeres en nuestro Laboratorio Bíblico que estamos ofreciendo aquí en la congregación de Leon. Es todos los jueves por como 2 horas. Yo no esperaba muchas mujeres (uno porque soy un poca dura como maestra y hay mucho trabajo y muchas de las mujeres tienen trabajos y familia, segundo porque les encargué un libro y tercero porque siempre me siento menos...) Pero el opuesto esta sucediendo! La clase esta creciendo! Subió a 18 mujeres la semana pasada y estoy aprendiendo mucho de las alumnas que vienen. He aprendido este año nuevo que Dios está vivo y trabaja de maneras pequeñas y GRANDES....y siempre está de mi lado. Tengo que seguir moviendo hacia adelante con Él.

También he aprendido que no estoy congelada, sino gelatina.. .estoy calentando...Ya regresaré pronto con más que decir. Dios es Bueno... Su Gracia en todos partes y su Amor está aquí para siempre.... Tana

Dec newsletter.

2010-01-05T11:52:00.000-06:00

Here is my Dec newsletter featuring Barb.... New articles soon... Love, tana

November newsletter is up

2009-12-04T11:53:00.000-06:00

Hey all, November newsletter is here.... and here is a copy for those who did not get the email...

Love, Tana

Thanksgiving... Gracias...

2009-11-26T13:39:00.000-06:00

Today on this day when we all are thankful I just wanted to say how thankful I am for a God that has shown me who I really am. I am thankful that I can use all of my gifts and abilities for Him and for all those who know me. I am thankful that I have a husband that not only creates an enviornment for my kids and I to grow and flourish, but who also pushes me to be better than I am, who believes in me more than I do sometimes....
I am thankful for family and friends all over the world that love us, help us and encourage us in all we do. THANKS>>>>> To ALL!!!!
____________________________________________________________________________________

En este día tan especial de Gracias cuando todos nosotros somos agradecidos, quiero decir que tan agradecido estoy por un Dios quien me ha mostrado quien realmente soy. Estoy agradecido que puedo usar todos mis talentos y habilidades por Él y por todos que me conocen. Estoy agradecido por tener un esposo que no solamente cree un ambiente para mis hijos y yo donde podemos crecer y desarrollar, pero también el me empuje para ser lo mejor que pienso que soy....
Estoy agradecido por familia y amigos en todo el mundo que nos ama, ayuda, y nos motiva en todo lo que hacemos...GRACIAS>>>> A TODOS!!!

All or nothing?? / Todo o nada???

2009-11-26T13:21:00.000-06:00

Nothing is something

Is it just me or does anyone else notice that nothing is something now a days?
With the shift to hyper-modernity: “a stage of society that reflects a deepening or intensification of modernity. Characteristics include a deep faith in humanity's ability to understand, control, and manipulate every aspect of human experience. This typically is manifested in a forward-looking commitment to science and knowledge particularly with regard to the convergence of technology and biology The emphasis on the value of new technology to overcome natural limitations lends itself a diminution or outright repudiation of the past, since yesterday's knowledge is always less than today's.”   (S. Charles and G. Lipovetsky, Hypermodern Times, Polity Press, 2006)
Basically, hypermodern cultures like ours are imbedded in technology, it is a basic part of our life. Everyone over the age of 11 has heard of “My Space”, “Facebook” or “Twitter.” Nintendo DS, Play Station Portables, Wii, X-Box, I-phone, I-pods, laptops, computers, HD, Blue-ray, TiVo ,and so many other technological devices that are made to “manipulate our human experience” and make our life better are out there for us to use.
Now I am not one to put any of these items down. I have many of them and I use them quite a lot.   But Coming back to my original reason for writing: all of these things are “somethings” they are made to make our life better, but many times they suck us in and help us do NOTHING.....
How many of us can get on any number of “social” websites and spend hours doing nothing. How many “Applications” do we add to our phones and I-Pods that help us spend our free time doing nothing?
“Wait a minute!” you say, “ I am connecting with so many of my old friends, and I am using my social networking to reconnect and to evangelize and help many friends.”
Oh, I don’t doubt it. At least I don’t doubt that you hope that you are doing this. For its face value (no pun intended) these type of social networking are very good to promote yourself, help people, re-connect and even evangelize to others.
But, every time I log into my account and see what my friends are up to, it is usually the next level of a game or their laundry.
Again, I am not saying we do not need these things. Games, entertainment, movies are all good things, nice distractions to get us out of the real world sometimes and help us to dream and even relax. (But so is reading... try it... it is also fun)
My problem with all of these “somethings” is that most of the time we are doing nothing. I am the first one to admit that I have a list of things I can accomplish in 5 or 10 minutes. But I end up playing on my computer or phone and do not get anything on the list done.
Essentially I have done “nothing.”
How many of us do this? Come on, think about it, if you really put down on paper how much time you spend on the technology we all have doing nothing, it sometimes takes up half the day.
Television has been a problem for years, but now we have so many other ways to distract us.
I will say that I don’t hate any technology and I believe that technology is the future and the way to go as far as bettering our society, but don’t we have the brain, the willpower to work and get our things done first? Then play?
I pray daily for that willpower. We can do so much more, we can accomplish so much if we just start doing something and put the “nothing” on the shelf for specific times instead of all the time....
What can we do?
Get Up daily, and we Do something. Whatever that is. whatever your goals, dreams are, do them! Get out there and do it. work daily, slowly and use our time wisely.
I think that all the new technology is good and can help our society. It can be used rightly, we are the ones in charge and we can decide to do something with all we have been blessed with.
I like what Henry David Thoreau said, “Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.”
We can do so much with our time, accomplish so much!
What do you think?

“Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 3: 13 - 14....

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Nada es Algo...

¿Soy yo, o hay alguien más quien se da cuenta que nada es algo en estos días?
Con el cambio al Hipermodernidad: “una etapa de la sociedad que refleja una profunda o intensa modernidad. Características incluyen una fe profunda en la habilidad humana de entender, controlar y manipular todo aspecto de la experiencia humana. Típicamente es manifestada en una vista comprometida a ciencia y sabiduría, particularmente hacia la mezcla de tecnología y biología. El énfasis en el valor de la tecnología ha sobrestimado los limites naturales que ayuda a llegar al futuro sabiendo que la sabiduría mejora cada día y es mejor que la de ayer.” (S. Charles and G. Lipovetsky, Hypermodern Times, Polity Press, 2006)
Básicamente, culturas hipermodernas como la nuestra esta metida en tecnología, una parte básica de nuestra vida. Todos mayores que los 11 años han escuchado de “my space”, “facebook”, o “twitter.” Nintendo DS, Play Station Portables, Wii, X-Box, I-phone, I-pods, laptops, computers, HD, Blue-Ray, TiVo, y muchos más son hechos para “manipular nuestra experiencia humana” y mejorar nuestra vida están listos para nosotros.
Ahora, No estoy diciendo que estas cosas están malas. Tengo muchas de ellas y las uso mucho. Pero todas estas cosas son “algo” que son hechos para mejorar nuestras vidas, pero muchas veces estas cosas nos quitan mucho tiempo y no hacemos “nada.”
¿Cuántos de nosotros nos ponemos en estos sitios “sociales” y gastamos mucho tiempo no haciendo “nada”?
¿Cuántos aplicaciones ponemos en los I-pods e I-Phones? y nos quita mas tiempo...
“Esperate!” dices, “Yo estoy conectando con amigos, y usando el internet para reconectarme con ellos y hasta evangelizarles.”
Oh, No lo dudo. Por lo menos No dudo que tu esperes que esto es lo que estas haciendo. Tomando cosas en serio...estos tipos de sitios sociales son muy buenos para promover tus ideas, reconectar y evangelizar también.
Pero, cada vez que yo me meto, veo que mis amigos están ganando juegos y limpiando ropa...
No estoy diciendo que no son importantes o prácticos los sitios, juegos etc.... Los juegos, las películas, y otro entretenimiento pueden ser buenos, buenas distracciones para sacarnos de la vida real de vez en cuando y nos ayudan a relajar. (pero también leer te ayuda... inténtalo.. es divertido)
Mi problema con todo estos “algos” es que la mayoría del tiempo no estamos haciendo nada. Soy la primera en decir que tengo una lista de quehaceres cuando tengo 5 o 10 minutos libres, Per en vez de eso, termino jugando con mi computadora o juego en mi teléfono y no trabajo en nada, en fin he “hecho nada.”
¿Cuántos de nosotros lo hacemos? Piensalo, si realmente escribimos en una hoja todo el tiempo que gastamos trabajando en la tecnología “haciendo nada” veremos que a veces es la mitad del día.
Televisión antes era el problema por años, pero ahora tenemos tantas maneras diferentes para destraernos. No odio a la tecnología; creo que la tecnología que tenemos es el futuro y la manera que podemos mejorar la sociedad, pero no tenemos el cerebro, poder de voluntad para poder trabajar y terminar lo necesario primero? Y después jugar? Yo no a veces.
Yo oro diario para este poder.
Podemos hacer mucho más de lo que hacemos, podemos lograr muchas cosas si empezamos haciendo “algo” y dejamos a la “nada” para tiempos específicos en vez de todo el tiempo.
¿Qué podemos hacer? Nos despertamos diario y HACEMOS algo, lo que sea que son tus sueños, metas... hazlos! Sal y haz algo.
Es un trabajo diario, lentamente con trabajo y usando el tiempo con sabiduría, lograremos los sueños. Creo que la tecnología es bueno y puede ser usado para mejorar la vida, podemos usarlo correctamente.
Estamos en cargados y podemos decidir como trabajar con los talentos que Dios nos ha dado. A mi me gusta lo que dice Henry David Thoreau: “ El éxito usualmente llega a las personas quienes están demasiado ocupados para buscarlo.”
Que Piensan ustedes?

Hermanos, no pienso que yo mismo lo haya logrado ya. Más bien, una cosa hago: olvidando lo que queda atrás y esforzándome por alcanzar lo que está delante, sigo avanzando hacia la meta para ganar el premio que Dios ofrece mediante su llamamiento celestial en Cristo Jesús.
Filipenses 3:13-14

October Newsletter

2009-11-10T13:47:00.000-06:00

My newsletter was sent out.. here is a copy...

Annex to Fear / Anexo a Miedo

2009-10-29T11:51:00.003-06:00

Update to Fear article.

Many other things apart from fear affect us. As I studied for the article I saw many aspects of fear I left out. But, it just didn’t fit. Here is the “annex” to the article. This annex will be based on worry, which I believe many times goes hand in hand with fear and sometimes can be the catalyst that leads us to fear.

Facts of worrying and concern from Joanna Weaver:

40% are things that will never happen
30% are about the past, which cannot be changed.
12% are about criticisms by others, which are usually untrue
10% are about health, which gets worse with stress.
8% are about real problems that can be solved.

Worrying is futile and bad for us.
Worry is different from concern because when we worry it is unfounded, generalized, obsesses about the problem, creates more problems, and looks to self or others for help. Concern, is not bad because it includes: legitimate threats, one thing (specific), addresses the problem, and solves the problem and it involves going to God for help. (1)

The idea of concern is to concern ourselves about a problem that is legitimate. So we first need to see if our problem is legitimate and not one of the 92% of worries that we cannot control. These worries that we cannot control can become toxic to us, they can engulf us and create fear in our hearts. They are not good. Paul tells us in Philippians 4:6 - 7: “ Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Paul is telling us three things: Be anxious for nothing, be prayerful about everything, be thankful for all. When we do these three things, the peace of God comes.
So when worries come we need to remember that just as when fear comes, we need to go to God first, making sure that we pray and meditate on what we are worrying about. It is a process that we all go through, but not impossible. Paul knows that it is hard, that is why he outlines the process for us.

One more thought on worrying and I am done. Again Joanna Weaver has taken a lot of work out my research by making a list of helpful ways to “Tame the worrying habit” in us. I will end this with the list she shares:

Separate worry from concern. Determine if you can do anything about the situation, then sketch a plan to handle it. (Proverbs 16:3)
Don’t worry alone. Share concerns with friends or counselors. Talking fears with someone close often helps us reveal solutions, or helps us see that it is an unnecessary worry. (Proverbs 27:9)
Take care of your physical body. Regular exercise, diet and rest can defuse a lot of worry. (1 Corinthians 6: 19 - 20)
Do what is right. A guilty conscience can cause more anxiety than a world of problems. (Acts 24: 16).
Look on the bright side. Consciously focus on what is good around you, don’t be negative. (Ephesians 4: 29)
Control your imagination. Be realistic about the problems you face. Live in the here and now. (Isaiah 35: 3- 4).
Prepare for the unexpected. Put aside a cash reserve and take responsible measures in all things. (Proverbs 21: 20)
Trust God. Keep reminding yourself to put God in your equation. (Psalm 112: 7)
Meditate on God’s promises. Scripture has the power to transform our minds. Look for particular Scriptures that deal with your problems. (2 Peter 1: 4)
Pray. Carry all to God in Prayer. (Colossians 4:2) (1)

Thanks to Joanna....
Love, Tana

(1) Joanna Weaver, “Mary heart in a Martha world”

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Ponernos al día: Miedo y Preocupaciones.

Muchas cosas aparte del miedo nos afecta diariamente. Mientras estudiaba para mi articulo sobre miedo me di cuenta que había mucha información que no podía poner allí porque no tenia lugar en lo que estaba escribiendo. Aquí esta el “anexo” al articulo. En este anexo hablarémos de las preocupaciones buenas y malas (o tóxicas). Yo creo que muchas veces miedo y preocupación van juntos y las preocupaciones malas pueden ser catalizador que nos lleve al miedo.

Los verdades de las preocupaciones (de Joanna Weaver):

40% son cosas que nunca pasarán
30% son cosas del pasado, que no pueden ser cambiadas
12% son críticos de otros, que usualmente no son verdaderos
10% son de la salud, que se empeora con más preocupación
8% son de problemas reales que pueden ser resueltos.

Preocupaciones malas son fútiles y tóxicas para nosotros.
Preocupaciones tóxicas son diferentes del inquietud de alguien. Preocupaciones tóxicas no tienen base, tienen obsesión del problema, crea más problemas, y buscan a alguien para una respuesta. Pero si tienes una inquietud real vas a ver un problema (no muchos), vas a ver el problema solamente, y vas a poder encontrar solución. Lo más importante es con inquietudes vas a ir a Dios por respuestas, no a otras personas. (1)

La idea de tener inquietudes es preocuparnos de un problema que es legítimo. Entonces primeramente necesitamos ver si el problema es legítimo y no parte de los 92% que no podemos controlar. Las preocupaciones tóxicas nos afecta, y crean miedo en nuestros corazones, nos comen vivo. Pablo nos dice en Filipenses 4: 6- 7:

No se inquieten por nada; más bien, en toda ocasión, con oración y ruego, presenten sus peticiones a Dios y denle gracias.7 Y la paz de Dios, que sobrepasa todo entendimiento, cuidará sus corazones y sus pensamientos en Cristo Jesús.

Pablo nos está diciendo tres cosas: No nos preocupamos por nada, Oramos por todo, y seamos agradecidos en todo. Cuando hacemos esto, la paz de Dios nos cuida. Entonces cuando vienen las preocupaciones, nos recordaremos de Dios, meditando en los problemas y dándolos a Dios en oración. Es un proceso en que todos pasamos, pero no es imposible. Pablo sabe que es difícil, por eso nos da el proceso en un bosquejo.

Una cosa más sobre preocupaciones y ya termino. Otra vez Joanna Weaver ha tomado el trabajo por mi e hizo una lista de puntos importantes sobre como “domar” las preocupaciones. Terminaré con su lista:

Separa preocupación tóxica e inquietud. Determina si puedes hacer algo de la situación y hace un plan para hacerlo. (Proverbios 16:3)
No te preocupes solo. Comparte con un amigo o consejo conocido. Aveces cuando hablamos de los miedos nos ayuda con soluciones o con el hecho de que son problemas no podemos resolver y es innecesario preocuparnos. (Proverbios 27:9)
Cuida tu cuerpo físicamente. Diario ejercicio, dieta, y descanso se puede difundir muchas preocupaciones. (1 Corintios 6: 19 - 20)
Haz lo correcto. Una conciencia culpable puede causar mucho más miedo que un mundo de problemas. (Hechos 24:16)
Mira al lado positivo. Estar consciente y enfoca en lo bueno de tu mundo, no seas negativo. (Efesios 4:29)
Controla tu imaginación. Se realista sobre tus problemas. Vive en el presente....(Isaías 35: 3 - 4)
Prepara para lo inesperado. Guarda dinero para problemas previstas o toma medidas de prevención en muchas áreas. (Proverbios 21:20)
Confía en Dios. Sigue recordandote a ti mismo que Él está contigo. (Salmos 112: 7)
ORA. Lleva todo a Dios en oración. (Colosenses 4:2)

(1)

Gracias a Joanna....

con Amor, Tana

(1) Joanna Weaver, “El corazón de Maria en un mundo de Martas.”

FEAR / MIEDO....

2009-10-27T11:55:00.004-06:00

My kids and I always pray at night. We all pray before bed after a little reading.
A few nights my daughter prayed to not be scared at school and then my son realized that he had not prayed for that. A look of fear and confusion swept across his little face. “God I don’t want to be scared too,” he prayed. I finished the prayer and told them not to worry, God is always with us.
My son would never have even thought of the fear he was supposed to have if he had not heard his sister first. That happens to many of us. We create fears, where there were none. Even with this article, I had been outlining it and planning to write it for weeks, but until I started writing it this anxious, unknowing fear crept in. “God what if... what if I can’t... what if they don’t like it?” All the fears that had never occurred to me were suddenly there in my head, pushing away the feelings of secure confidence that I had a lot of information to share, that I was ready to write. So, I reiterate, this happens to all of us at one time or another: A new job, after 4 years of studying for it, suddenly becomes the new anxiety. A new baby, after months of planning and preparing, is suddenly scary and unknown. A walk down the altar, after much planning and love, becomes the scariest place on earth. Yes, at one point it happens to all of us. These are fears we have, maybe we even create them, but they hopefully do not last and do not rule our lives.

I am no psychologist, but I believe that this type of fear or anxiousness is normal in all of us, maybe even good because it shows that we are trying, moving, and doing things. These little fears that come and go show we have a desire to do better, to work harder. Fear can be a motivator, but it can be destructive, so as a motivator it can’t be long term. Fear is used to promote things such as seat-belts, “if you don’t wear one you will die.” But as far as motivation, fear won’t keep us in the race very long.
Many experts talk about changing fear for desire. Lucian Cade, psychologist, in his article on fear says, “What high achievers have managed to do is shift their motivation from fear (what most people use), to desire.” (1) This sounds easy, but can be hard for most of us. Especially if we have always used fear to motivate us. As a Christian, and more as a Christian leader, we need to learn how to have our desire in Christ, and let that be our motivator, and then also pass this as mothers on to our family and then on to other Christians.
There are so many people in this world that have so many phobias and fears.
There is actually a book and many lists of the numerous phobias out there in the world. Many fears and phobias I had never heard of: Atomophobia (fear of atom bomb), Omphalophobia (fear of belly buttons), Bibliophobia(fear of books), Cyberphobia(fear of computers), Octophobia (fear of 8), and of course Paraskavedekatriaphobia (fear of Friday 13th). With so many fears and phobias, medications, problems that people have. How do we as Christians learn to trust in Christ? To turn our anxious, “What if..” into “ Christ can.”
So many people quote Matthew six, sermon on the mount when Jesus is telling the people not to worry. I myself used this passage many times to help curb fears that seemed to overtake me.
Lately though I have found another passage that fits even better, Ephesians one. Someone, mentioned once to me that in Matthew six Jesus was talking to Jews, not Christians. This by no means makes Matthew six obsolete in any way, for Jesus’ words do get us to thinking about why we fear and how to desire and cherish the concept that God protects us. The sermon on the mount gives us a command not to fear. We should trust Christ when he tells us this. But, Ephesians one shows us in many more ways why fear that keeps us from doing normal daily things, including worshiping God, is wrong and why we do not need to have it.
The first chapter of Ephesians is written to Christians, in a time of need. Ephesus was the center of worship for the goddess Artemis (Diana of Ephesus). According to Professor Dr. Ralph F. Wilson there was evidence of “mystery religions, the practice of magic (Acts 19:19), worship of Egyptian gods Sarapis and Isis, as well as devotion to large number of other deities.” (2) Many Christians in Ephesus and the surrounding areas were converted gentiles who had worshiped many magical “gods” and other Hellenistic religions (the various systems of religions practiced under Greek culture during the Roman empire). They were Christians whose sinful nature still feared many magical and evil spirits and were not sure of Christ,s power over them. These Christians may have forgotten the dignity of their calling to Christ. They were in fear of the “spirits” they thought could hurt them.
We are not like this today. We have no fear of spirits or ideas like money, time, children, work, or the belief that evil spirits are behind these fears. We do not cling to old sinful desires like arrogance, depression, fear of the unknown, death. No, we are nothing like the Ephesians right?

I don’t know about you, but I fear many things that are originating from my sinful desires. I fear not having money, stability, family, popularity... and the list goes on. In Ephesians one, Paul reminds us all of our glorious calling. That God has given us grace through Christ. We have a seal with the Holy Spirit. Why do we fear? Why do we let it overcome us? If we have the Holy Spirit? Christ is with us.
FF. Bruce says it well:

The Letter was written to encourage Gentile Christians to appreciate the dignity of their calling, with its implication not only for their heavenly origin and destiny, but also for their present conduct on earth, as those who were heirs of God, sealed with the Holy Spirit. (3)

God is more powerful than our fears. We have a destiny that is unimaginably wonderful and we have the seal of the Holy Spirit. As Bruce says, that should effect our conduct. We need not to fear because our God is bigger than all our fears. It has taken a lot to write this, as I fear you will not like it. But, I have decided God is with me by his Spirit. I am not going to fear, but push on, work and use my talents the way God has asked me to. You should do this too.
Love, Tana

1. Cade, Pg 2
2. Dr. Ralph F. Wilson. Life lessons from Ephesians.
3. Bruce, F.F. Pg. 245.

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Mis hijos y yo siempre oramos en la noche después de leer un rato. Hace unas noches mi hija estaba orando que Dios le ayudara no tener miedo en la escuela. Mi hijo se dio cuenta que no había orado por eso. Pobrecito, su cara confundido dijo, “Dios, yo no quiero tener miedo.” Yo terminé la oración y les hablé que no tenia que preocuparse porque Dios siempre esta con nosotros.

Mi hijo nunca hubiera pensado en miedo si su hermana no hubiera dicho algo primero. Pasa con muchas de nosotras. Creamos miedos donde no había. Aun con este articulo, Yo había hecho muchos bosquejos y planes para escribirlo durante semanas, pero cuando empecé a escribirlo ansiedad y miedo me empezaron a ahogar. “Dios, que pasa si no les gusta… Y si no puedo… Y si no estoy lista para hacer..” Todo el miedo que nunca me había ocurrido me llenó la cabeza, empujando los sentimientos de seguridad que yo ya estaba preparada para escribir, que ya tenia yo mucha información para compartir. Reitero que nos pasa a todos de vez en cuando por ejemplo: buscar un trabajo nuevo después de 4 años de preparación y escuela se pone imposible, algo que no podemos hacer. Un bebe nuevo, después de meses de preparación, es de repente el miedo máximo. La caminata al altar, después de muchos planes y amor, se convierte en el lugar mas lleno de miedo del mundo. Si, de vez en cuando todos nosotros tenemos miedo. Estos son miedos que tenemos, a veces los creamos, pero no duran y no reinan en nuestras vidas.

No soy psicóloga, pero yo creo que este tipo de miedo puede ser bueno y normal, a lo mejor bueno para nosotros porque muestra que estamos tratando, moviendo, y haciendo algo en nuestras vidas. Estos miedos pequeños que vienen y van nos muestran que tenemos deseos de mejorar, de trabajar. El miedo puede motivarnos, pero puede ser destructiva si dura mucho tiempo. Entonces miedo como motivador no puede durar mucho tiempo. El miedo se usa para promover cosas, como cinturones de seguridad, “Si no te la pones, te mueras..” Pero como motivador el miedo no nos lleva hasta el final de la meta; sino que es el camino hasta el fin.
Muchos expertos hablan de cambiar el miedo a deseo. Lucian Cade, profesor de psicología, en su articulo sobre la motivación dice: “Uno quién alcanza sus metas logran hacerlo cambiando el miedo (lo que muchos usan) por el deseo.” (1) Suena fácil, pero para la mayoría de nosotros no es fácil de hacer, aun imposible de hacer varias veces. Esto sucede especialmente si siempre hemos usado miedo como motivador. Como un Cristiano líder tenemos que aprender como tener nuestro deseo en Cristo y deja que Cristo sea nuestro motivador en todo. Como madres tenemos que pasar esta idea a nuestra familia y después a otros Cristianos.

Hay muchísimas personas en este mundo quien tienen miedos y/o fobias , hasta libros y listas que explican las fobias que hay hoy en día por ejemplo: Atomofobia (miedo de la bomba atómica), omfalofobia (miedo de los ombligos), bibliofobia (miedo de libros), cyberfobia (miedo de computadoras), octofobia (miedo del 8), y por su puesto, paraskavedekatriafobia (miedo del 13 de viernes). Hay millones de fobias listadas. Con tantos miedos y fobias, medicamentos, problemas que la gente tiene. Como podemos confiar en Cristo, siendo Cristianos? Como cambiamos los “si eso pasa…” a “Cristo puede”?

Muchas personas citan Mateo capitulo seis, el sermón del monte cuando Jesús le esta hablando a la gente, diciéndolos que no tengan miedo. Yo he usado este pasaje muchas veces para ayudar terminar con mi miedo que me sobrepasa. Pero últimamente encontré otro pasaje que es mejor - Efesios capitulo uno. Alguien me comento que en Mateo Jesús esta hablando a los judíos, no Cristianos. La iglesia no existe aun. Ahora, esto de ninguna manera hace que Mateo seis este obsoleto, porque las palabras de Jesús si nos motivan a pensar en porque tenemos miedo y como desear el concepto que Dios nos está protegiendo. En este Sermón del Monte nos da un mandamiento de no tener miedo cuando estamos con Dios. Debemos confiar en Cristo cuando nos dice eso. Pero podemos complementar esto con lo que Pablo dice en su carta de Efesios capitulo uno; ya que el nos muestra que el miedo del las cosas cotidianas, diarias, nos detienen aun mas para poder adorar a Dios. Eso es una equivocación de nuestra parte, y no debería pasar. El primer capitulo de Efesios esta escrito a Cristianos, en un tiempo de necesidad. Efeso era el centro de adoración a la diosa “Artemis” (Diana de Efeso). Según el profesor Dr. Ralph F. Wilson, había evidencia de “religiones misteriosas, la practica de magia (Hechos 19:19), adoración de dioses de Egipto como Sarapis e Isis, ademas de devoción a numerosos otros dioses.” (2) Muchas Cristianos en Efeso y alrededor eran gentiles convertidos quienes habían adorado muchos dioses mágicos y otros religiones Helenísticos (los religiones y sistemas practicados por la cultura Griega en el tiempo de los Romanos). Ellos eran Cristiano quienes con sus deseos pecaminosos todavía tenían miedo de estas espiritualidádes y espíritus malos y no estaban seguros si el poder de Cristo era suficiente. Ellos posiblemente habían olvidado la dignidad de su llamamiento a Cristo. Vivían en miedo de los espíritus malos los que pensaron que los podían lastimar. Hoy en día no somos como ellos verdad? No tememos a los “espíritus malos” como dinero, tiempo, niños, trabajo o el pensamiento que los espíritus malos están detrás de todos esos miedos. No estamos aferrados a los deseos pecaminosos como arrogancia, depresión, miedo de lo desconocido, o miedo de la muerte. No, no somos para nada como los Cristianos de Efeso, ¿verdad?

No se de ti, pero yo tengo miedo de muchas cosas basadas en mi deseos pecaminosos. Tengo miedo de no tener dinero, estabilidad, familia, popularidad, y la lista sigue muy larga. En Efesios uno Pablo les recuerda a los Cristianos y a nosotros también de la llamada gloriosa de Dios. Que Dios nos ha dado gracia atravez de Cristo. Tenemos un sello con el Espíritu Santo. ¿Porque tenemos miedo? ¿Porque lo dejamos superar totalmente? ¿Si tenemos el Espíritu Santo? Cristo esta con nosotros. F.F Bruce, historiador de la Biblia, lo dice muy bien:

La carta fue escrita para motivar a los Cristianos gentiles para apreciar la dignidad de su llamamiento, con sus implicaciones no solamente de su origen en el cielo, y su destino, sino para que su conducta en el momento presente dure su tiempo en la tierra, como herederos de Dios, con el sello del Espíritu Santo.. (3)

Dios es mas poderoso que nuestros miedos. Tenemos un destino que es imaginablemente maravilloso y tenemos el sello del Espíritu Santo como garantía. Como dice F.F. Bruce, esta verdad únicamente debería afectar nuestra conducta. No necesitamos tener miedo porque nuestro Dios es más grande que todos nuestros miedos. Ha sido difícil escribir este articulo como tengo miedo de que no les vaya a gustar a los lectores. Pero, ya había decidido que Dios está conmigo en su Espíritu. No voy a tener miedo, voy a seguir adelante, trabajar, y usar mis talentos como El me ha pedido. Yo te reto a que tu deberías hacer esto también. Con Amor, Tana

1. Cade, Pg. 2
2. Dr. Ralph F. Wilson, Life lessons from Ephesians.
3. Bruce, F.F. Pg. 245

Fruits... Frutos...

2009-10-20T11:22:00.003-05:00

I know you are saying, "Where is the Fear article?" Its done in both languages and in the Editing phase... But I had a thought today I would like to share... Fruits.
As I crossed the street this morning to go to teach Spanish, a man on a bike passed by, he whistled and goggled and did all the other things that obnoxious men of the world that have no other thing to do do when they see a woman...
I had an inclination, for one second to just stick my foot out as he passed, barely hitting the wheel so he would fall. I really wanted to teach him for bothering me and for acting like some animal. But in that same second, my mind went through all the scenarios: him falling toward traffic and getting hit by a car (pretty bad), him falling, then getting up and leaving with a bewildered but respectful look in his eye for me, (not too bad), or him getting up, saying some bad words and maybe hurting me back or chasing me down the street (not the worst, but not good either).
So, as he passed, I just gave him the dirtiest look I could (to him I probably looked constipated who knows, I don't do dirty looks well..).
My question to all of you is how was my fruit of the spirit in all of this?
In 1 Thessalonians 4 Paul warns us to control our physical bodies and not give in to passion etc.... which I think I did, I did control my urge to hurt the man... but I can't help wondering what others think about my desire that he be hurt being a poor fruit on my part. I may not have hurt the man physically, but I sure wanted to.
Then there is the idea of being passionate for the holy and abhorring evil as Jesus did when he turned over the tables at the temple. I personally feel justified that I was mad at this mans actions. The fact that I loathed his sinfulness, but did not act on my sinful desire to hurt him shows to me that I am showing good fruits... But what do you all think????

Love Tana
__________________________________________________________________
Estas diciendo, “¿Donde esta el articulo del Miedo?” Ya esta terminado, en los dos idiomas y en el proceso del ultimo revisión. Pero tuve un pensamiento hoy que me gustaría compartir...Frutos.
Mientras crucé la calle a esta mañana para enseñar español, un hombre pasó en bicicleta y empezó a chiflarme, mirarme, y hacer las otras cosas que hacen los hombres repugnantes del mundo que no tienen otra cosa que hacer cuando ven a una mujer....
Tuve la inclinación, por un segundo, sacar mi pie un poquito para que tocara la llanta y se cayera el hombre. Realmente le quería enseñar por haberme molestado y por actuando como un animal. Pero en el mismo segundo, mi mente pasó por todos los escenarios: el cayendo hacia el trafico y siendo atropellado por un coche (muy mal), el cayendo y saliendo rápidamente con una mirada de desconcertamiento y respecto hacia a mi (No tan mal), o el cayendo y levantando gritandome, diciendo palabrotas y siguiendome por la calle (no lo peor, pero tampoco muy bueno..). Entonces lo que hice fue darle la mirada más malvada que pude hacer mientras pasaba (a lo mejor a él parecía que estaba constipada, no hago miradas malvadas muy bien...).
Mi pregunta para ustedes es: ¿Cómo era mi fruto del Espíritu en todo eso?
En 1 de Tesalonicenses 4 Pablo nos advierte a controlar nuestros cuerpos físicos y no entregarnos a los pasiones etc...que creo que hice, controlé mis ganas de lastimarlo...pero me pregunto que piensan los demás sobre mi deseo que estuviera lastimado y si es un fruto malo de mi parte. No le lastimé físicamente, pero si como quería.
También hay la idea de tener pasión por las cosas de Dios, todo lo santo, y de detestar toda maldad como hizo Jesús cuando tumbó las mesas en el templo. Personalmente me justifico que yo me enojé con las acciones del hombre. La verdad que detesté su pecado, pero no actué en mi deseo de lastimarlo, muestra buen fruto de mi parte... ¿Qué piensan ustedes???
Con Amor, Tana

FEAR

2009-10-13T12:10:00.001-05:00

I finally finished my article on Fear.. and phobias.. I am in the process of translating it into Spanish which I HATE!!!! It will be posted very soon... Thanks for your love and patience to ALL....
Tana

The LIGHT / La LUZ

2009-09-24T17:22:00.002-05:00

Recently I heard a devotional about Christians being the light. It was geared more specifically at missionaries. I liked the class. There was nothing wrong with it. In and of itself it was a good, uplifting devotional meant to encourage us.
But the more I thought about it, the more I did not like the fact that many people can use this type of lesson and say that being light is all we need to be. Think about it. When you were “converted” and you decided to follow Christ the rest of your life, the people that helped you, guided you, whether they were friends, pastors, preachers, parents etc... did not leave you as soon as you came out of the water. They did not just be “light” and then baptize you and move on. They stayed, taught, encouraged, DISCIPLED.
I am a firm believer that we should be light to everyone to all around us. But I do believe that the people we study with, teach and shepherd over as workers of the church need more than just light. They need help, encouragement, prayers, preparation and discipleship.
I did not have someone study with me and then drop me. Fourteen years after my baptism those people still help, and encourage me.
Matt Chandler preached a sermon a while back (The village church) saying that we cannot just hope that people see our Christianity. We need to speak, study and work with people.
I am not saying that the devotional I heard was wrong in anyway, on the contrary, it was very encouraging. I just got stuck on the idea that we have the duty to go beyond that sometimes.

What do you think?
_________________________________________________________________

Recientemente escuché un estudio sobre los cristianos siendo la luz. Fue guiada más para misioneros. Me gustó la clase. No había nada mal en ella. Fue muy buena y motivadora, diseñada para edificarnos.
Pero, lo mas que pensaba en ella, más no me gustaba la idea que mucha gente puede usar este tipo de mensaje para decir que siendo la luz es TODO lo que necesitamos hacer.
Piénsalo. Cuando fuiste convertido y decidiste seguir a Cristo el resto de tu vida, la gente que te ayudó, te guió..... amigos, pastores, predicadores, padres etc... no te dejaron el momento que saliste del agua. Ellos no solamente eran “luz”, bautizándote y dejándote, sino se quedaron, te enseñaron, te motivaron, y te Disipularon.
So un creyente firme que deberíamos ser “la luz” a todos en nuestro alrededor. Pero creo que la gente con quien estudiemos necesitan más que solamente “luz”. Necesitan ayuda, motivación, oraciones y preparaciones. Necesitan ser DISIPULADOS.
Catorce años después de mi bautismo los que me ayudaron todavía lo hacen y me animan.
Matt Chandler (The village church) predicó hace unos semanas sobre la luz. Dijo que no podemos esperar que la gente sepa que somos cristianos solamente por “ser la luz” Dijo que aveces tenemos que hablar, estudiar y trabajar con gente para que lo vean.
No estoy diciendo que el estudio que escuché fue malo, de ninguna manera. En cambio fue muy motivante. Solo me quedó la idea de que tenemos el deber de ir más allá de eso...
¿Que piensan ustedes?

Mary and Martha / María y Marta: What do you think? ¿Qué pienses tú?

2009-09-12T09:44:00.005-05:00

Emma has a Mary Engelbreit picture on her wall, it is a cute little brown haired girl, her arms reaching up, tightly holding the knot at the end of the rope. She is looking down,scolding and sticking out her tongue at a pile of spiky, green snakes. Underneath the picture is a quote from Thomas Jefferson, “When your at the end of your rope, make a knot and hold on.”
Jefferson was concerned with work. His ideals and principles came from working until something came out right, not giving up. We as Christians have a better way to look at this concept. Jesus. He promises to be the knot, to use us, when we come to the “end of ourselves and our abilities, when we relinquish our lives.” (Weaver, 2000)
Joanna Weaver talks about this concept and how to reach the goal of relinquishing and giving ourselves over to Christ in her book, Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World.
This book was a gift to me from a dear friend and sister in Christ in Mesquite, Texas. Many of you may have already read it. ( I am a little behind the times when it comes to Christian living books...) My friend was concerned that as a missionary I was not giving my time equally in serving God and searching him, just being with him.
I would have to agree that she was right.
As a missionary or as a woman who works for the church in some full capacity, it is easy to put the work that we do as our spiritual offering, our service to God. This innate nature of our work is not uncommon and not wrong in itself.
But as Weaver brought out in her book, we can stay in the “kitchen” like Martha worrying about whether or not God cares how much we are doing for him. We can put all our energy in that, forgetting that God needs us to sit with him, to rest in him and have a relationship with Him alone.
She shows us the two different worship types of Martha and Mary in every chapter, discussing the difference between kitchen service and living room intimacy.
Not only does Weaver talk about Martha, but Mary also. They both have good and bad aspects of their form of worship. The main point she brings out is the fact that we must learn to take both sides and fuse them with the same thing Mary and Martha fused their faith with, complete trust, and giving of oneself up for Christ; 100% to him.
The book is very easy to read, very personal and most of all, practical. The last chapters help us as women understand that the fusing of these two types of service to God will not always be balanced, but our complete trust and giving of ourselves to Him is what counts. That is where the real balance is, daily giving ourselves to him and being patient, partnering with God in our walk.
She ends the book with 2 Corinthians 4:16 - 17: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
Its a process, practice makes perfect and all that....
If anyone has read this book or her second book, Having a Mary Spirit, which I will be looking forward to reading, let me know what you think. If you have not read it, I strongly suggest it. It is quick reading and she is really a talented writer. Tana
________________________________________________________________

Emma tiene un dibujo en su pared de la artista, Mary Engelbreit. Representa una niña morenita colgada de una cuerda, bien agarrada de un nudo al final de la cuerda. En el suelo abajo hay un montón de víboras verdes y espinosos. La niña les saca la lengua casi y abajo del dibujo hay un frase de Thomas Jefferson, “Cuando llegues al final de tu cuerda, haz un nudo y agárrate bien.”
Jefferson estaba preocupado con el trabajo. Sus ideas y principios de trabajo venían del sueño de trabajar mucho y duro para obtener lo que necesitas y quieres, nunca rindiendo. Nosotras como Cristianas tenemos una manera mejor para ver éste concepto. Jesucristo. Él prometa ser el “nudo”, siempre allí para que lo “agarremos.” “Cuando llegamos al final de nuestros mismos y nuestras capacidades, cuando entregamos nuestra vida, Jesús promete usarla.” (Weaver, 2000)
Joanna Weaver, en su libro: Cómo tener un corazón de María en un mundo de Marta, habla de cómo dar nuestras vidas completamente a Jesús y poder trabajar por el.
Éste libro me fue regalado por una amiga y hermana en Cristo de Mesquite, Texas. Ella es muy preciosa, y una linda persona. Mi amiga estaba preocupada por mi como misionero, que yo no estaba igualmente poniendo tiempo en mi adoración a Dios y en mi relación personal con él y trabajando en la iglesia. Yo tendría que decir que ella tenia razón.
Como misionero o gente que trabaja en una iglesia de tiempo completo, es fácil aveces poner el trabajo que hacemos como adoración a Dios. Éste concepto en si mismo no es equivocación ni malo. El problema es cuando llegamos a nuestro tiempo personal, dejamos de tener una relación personal con Dios. El “trabajo” es la iglesia y lo apartamos del resto de nuestras vidas. Que después puede causar problemas en nuestros corazones. La relación personal con Dios que tenemos se desaparece.
Weaver habla en su libro de que podemos quedarnos en “la cocina” como Marta, trabajando sin escucharle a Dios, preocupados siempre si Dios piensa en nosotros. En este corazón duro pensamos “Dios no nos quiere, donde esta?” Podemos poner toda nuestra energía en esto y olvidamos que Dios quiere que nos sentemos con él, que descansemos con él y crecer en nuestra relación con él.
Weaver nos muestra los dos tipos de adoración: de Marta y María, en cada capitulo, hablando de las diferencias en “la intimidad de la sala y el servicio de la cocina.”
No solamente habla de Marta, sino María también. Las dos tienen aspectos buenos y malos en su forma de adoración. El punto principal es que necesitamos sacar lo bueno de las dos formas y ponerlos juntos, igual que hicieron Marta y María, con fe, confianza completa en Dios, dándose completamente a Cristo; 100% a él.
El libro es muy fácil de leer, muy personal, y muy práctico. Los últimos capítulos nos ayudan entender cómo alear las formas no siempre seria balanceadas, pero nuestra confianza completa y entrega a él es lo más importante. Allí es dónde esta el balance real, diario dando nuestras vidas a Jesús y teniendo paciencia caminando con Dios en nuestro camino.
Ella termina el libro con las palabras de 2 Corintios 4: 16 - 17: “ Por eso no nos desanimamos. Aunque nuestro cuerpo se va gastando, nuestro espíritu va cobrando más fuerza. Las dificultades que tenemos son pequeñas, y no van a durar siempre. Pero, gracias a ellas, Dios nos llenará de la gloria que dura para siempre: una gloria grande y maravillosa.” (Biblia en Lenguaje Sencillo)
Es un proceso, Practicar para perfeccionar y todo eso....
Si alguien ya a leído este libro, o su segundo, Teniendo un espíritu de María, lo que estoy buscando ahora, me gustaría escuchar tus pensamientos. Si no lo han leído, yo lo recomiendo. Es rápido leerlo y Weaver es una escritora muy talentosa. Tana

Survival guide...

2009-09-05T20:32:00.002-05:00

Well, I don’t know if some of you know this, but I like to write. I am not that good at it, but as Marilyn vos Savant once said, “Being defeated is temporary, but giving up is permanent.”
I have been writing articles for Christian magazines and other things. Nothing has been accepted, but I will continue to try. It is harder since not many take email exceptions and being in Mexico I can’t easily send the inquiries by regular mail. (I can, but it is more work, therefore a better excuse... mmfffff...)
I will be making my website here a type of Survival guide for all women on the mission field, foreign or domestic.
This blog will be filled with concepts and ideas that not only come from me, but the many resources I have that God gives me.
What I hope is to encourage all women on the mission field and help them be the best they can be in all areas (because we know we do more than one thing right???)
So, just wait, it is coming, I promise....
Get ready to learn with me. I am learning, it is a process and I feel that it is time that I don’t give up, but work harder.. practice makes perfect and you know all the other stuff...
So, I am still going to send my articles... but why not post my own stuff here too so that I can already help others and learn from others as well.
I can’t wait for your feedback..
Thanks to all and God Bless, Tana

AImers

2009-08-29T08:44:00.002-05:00

Being with Ivanka yesterday reminded me what the Aimers could be going through... all over the world. This group had only been here a few months, but have allready been through alot of "cultural" experiences and having to deal with living together and living in Mexico, language, etc....
They are doing well. It reminded me if my Aime time (sooo loong ago......)
But, many Aimers learn one thing more than any other things... who they are... This can make them more frustrated (as it did me) because they do not like what they see. Being in a completely different culture makes you see yourself beliefs, your culture, your spiritual life more clearly...
The good thing is that God is with them and they are learning...
As C.S Lewis said,
"We are supposed to hate the cruelty and treachery in people....But it does want us to ahte them in the same way in which we hate things in ourselves: being sorry that the man should have done such things, and hoping, if it is anyway possible, that somehow, sometime, somewhere he can be cured and made human again."

God is with us, God loves us with all our sin and problems.. The good thing is that we accept ourselves as God does, desiring change and getting closer to Him daily. We also can love and forgive others the same way... God does....
The Aimers are learning this concept and it is hard, for all of us... But this will help them grow... please pray for their continual growth spiritually and other....
Tana

Kids start school again...

2009-08-29T08:35:00.003-05:00

Emma at the "big kids school"

Maicah having fun with friends...

Well, the kids really did not get a long summer, and we already started school again.. Both are very happy and their uniforms are still clean!! (that wont last long... he he...)
What I had a hard time with is that Emma started First Grade! I just can't believe how big she is. She loves being at the "bid kids school" and loves her teachers. She is also happy to be in the same building as her cousins, Mason and Madi.
Maicah started first kindergarten and is still at the preschool with their cousin, Kayson. He is also happy to have new friends and he feels like a big boy now because he gets homework and he has his own pencil box.
They are both adjusting well to their new classes.
Please pray for Emma who is going to have a hard year, learning to read and write this year will be a challenge, I am ready to help her and we are working slowly.
Thanks to all who help us so that our children can go to a good school!! lol Tana

Curry Chicken with Ivanka!!

2009-08-29T08:27:00.003-05:00

Ivanka and Emma... Adding chicken

Ivanka, one of our Aimers, came over yesterday and taught me and Emma how to make curry chicken. It was VERY good and pretty easy to make... I will easily be able to recreate the food and I added it to the EXTENSIVE recipes that I cook everyday!! (ha ha... sarcasm). Obviously I don't really cook much... I like it, but I have so much other things to do that it gets pushed to the back of my lists.... But, I will be easy (realy) to make this it was just a few steps and it was really good... So, Thanks Ivanka...

Calling.....Books..... Calling...

2009-08-23T22:26:00.003-05:00

"Hello? Did you forget about me? I am waiting."
The novel on the top of the pile on my desk calls to me....his heart beating so fast and so loud I cannot concentrate, cannot concentrate on the piles and piles of work that needs to be done: lessons to write, lessons to study, notes to myself that need answering, downloading to be done, uploading to be done and and endless pile of "to file" and "to organize" that I have been dubiously waiting for a magical fairy to organize as I sleep. HA!!!

"I am waiting.." the book whispers.

No matter where I move it, out of sight, I feel the heat pulsating from the pages, waiting for me to open and find out how to help the characters pass through their plight, onto their climax, their happy ending.
The book glows with delight, knowing that I can't focus on anything else.
Since I was old enough to read this has been my plight... Is it an addiction? I am sure it is.
Sleepless nights for fear that the protagonist can't make it. What will happen? Why did he do that?

Books that hum and drum.. slowly but steadily from my shelf, "you haven't read me yet! Hurry, I am waiting."

No matter what I put first in life, God, husband, children, home, friends and family.... Books will always be a part of my days, and sleepless nights... I can't help myself... They keep calling.

So, the piles will still be here, new ones pop up daily... the books will change, but they will keep calling me: " open me.... get lost in my pages..."

I don't know... I just love to read...

THINK About it this way:

“The more you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.”

^{- Dr. Seuss, "I Can Read With My Eyes Shut!"}

“To read is to fly: it is to soar to a point of vantage which gives a view over wide terrains of history, human variety, ideas, shared experience and the fruits of many inquiries.”

^{- A C Grayling, Financial Times (in a review of A History of Reading by Alberto Manguel)}

^{And C.S. Lewis said:}“We read to know we are not alone.”

No Words in Site....(get it????)

2009-08-16T22:14:00.001-05:00

No words in sight...

Its like looking down a black hole...

Watching the scratchy white and black fuzziness on tv...

Worse than staring at a sky with no clouds, trying to make cloudy shapes...

No words... like being asked a trigonometry question... blank... blank...blank...

Listening to the News in French... When you do not get French at all...

Staring at the horizon of the Ocean... nothing there... just a thin line...

NO Words is like when you are sitting in your room with no light, no tv, no sounds of crickets, dogs, any animals or living things and nothing comes to you... NOTHING...

NO words.. like the first fallen snow... endless white...

HE HE.... this is not fun.. but it is NO words.....

Emma and Maicah

2009-07-29T17:23:00.002-05:00

Daddy with Emma and Maicah

Maicah and his friend Mateo...

Emma at her "graduation"

At the hotel with the "Mesquite" group...

Emma and Maicah have been great Missionary kids... they love their lives and they have fun wherever they are at.. they can adapt so well to time changes and other changes like where they sleep and what they will do. I am truly blessed to have two great children. I love them very much.

Emma just graduated from "Pre-primaria" which is our Kindergarten... She will start 1st grade in August. Maicah just graduated from "maternal" part of preschool and now he goes on to 1st kindergarten, which is like "headstart" in the states.
They are both doing well and I am happy that so many family and friends love them and thanks to all who help us be able to give them a good life... Tana

Kasi's Wedding

2009-07-23T18:20:00.004-05:00

OMar and Dustin
Emma and Kasi
Dustin and Kasi
Dad, Mom and kids

Some of you may not know that my little sister (year younger than me) was married June 1oth in Florida... It was a blessing to get to go to the wedding and her and her new husband, Dustin, just got back from a delayed honeymoon. We had a lot of fun at the wedding with friends and family and we thank them for helping us to be able to go too.. My parents and grandparents also helped a lot... Thanks to all...

How close are WE Really???

2009-07-10T00:57:00.001-05:00

New Wearable Feedbags Let Americans Eat More, Move Less

I really don't know how close we are to really have this!!! But I could not help put it up!! It is great!!

Emma is Six!!!!

2009-06-29T16:06:00.003-05:00

Semi - pretty girly cake....
Singing....

Emma at 2 years old....

Yes, time really does fly by... Emma turned 6 on Sunday, June 28th...
It seems like yesterday that I was in the hospital in Lubbock, laboring all night while reading the fifth Harry Potter book. ( I hardly noticed labor pains because I was so into the book, and I did finish it before Emma was born at 5:30 am!!!!)
She was quick to come into the world, one month early. We were almost not ready for her.
She has continued this style: quick. She grows quickly, learns quickly, talks quickly, and moves quickly.
She has been a delight and a wonderful baby girl.
I love you Emma... Happy Birthday
..decorating...

Cop out ...

2009-06-01T23:25:00.002-05:00

Well I have no real excuse... they are all cop outs... (Cop out is an idiom meaning to avoid taking responsibility for an action or to avoid fulfilling a duty... Wikipedia.com)

I am avoiding the fact that I went to bed without writing on the computer or updating for a week and the week that sooooo much has gone on... the excuses include... being tired, having so much cleaning/working, the kids... but there is no real reason... I have been very unorganized....

The good news is that my newsletter will be out soon for May and the other Good news is that Omar has done his duty and all the stuff that has happened in the past week that was really important to us as a family and to the Church here in Leon has been posted on our family website.

I promise to post some pics and my thoughts of what has been happening soon... Until then sorry for the Cop out and God Bless.... I praise God for those of you dedicated Bloggers who keep us updated... It is a wonderful way for us all to see what is happening and it really does not take long.... Shame on me... NO really... I desire to be better in this area.....

GOD BLESS -----Tana

Prayer Request

2009-05-24T22:58:00.002-05:00

Today I just want to remember to Pray... IF we could all pray for whatever it is we need to. The Holy Spirit will help us, comfort us... IT is something so simple that can really change our lives.

Pray for:
Robert and Audra and Jeremiah Levis
Ryan and Amanda Gray
The Henderson family and Noah
The work of the church all over the world and especially in Mexico
AIM and AIMers
our children... the future....
All our family memembers that have not yet come to Christ...

Thanks giving... For all the Blessings God had given and will give us...
Thank you God....

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls."
----I Peter 1:3-9

Getting ready for the Aimers

2009-05-21T17:56:00.004-05:00

Espe really helped a lot...Thanks!!!

The "men" doing the heavy lifting...Thanks GUYS!!!!

Well, The New Aimers are coming on Monday and here in Leon, we are in the full swing of "Crunch Time"

Everyone has pulled together and we have both Apartments set up for the boys and girls (excuse me, I mean men and women)
The work was not as hard because we did it as a team, but it involves a lot. Gas, electric, rent, deposits, moving, cleaning, organizing, and it is all Well Worth it.
God has blessed us in the past with wonderful Aimers, some of which are coming back this next week also for a wedding.
We believe that God uses the Aimers and we will continue to work with them and help them as much as possible as long as we can.
As Omar and others have said, we can help the Aimers too and I love to be able to see the missionaries and other workers here be here for them as they grow and stretch...
They are in for a great Adventure, they will be stretched, moved and pulled from their comfort zones, they will be angry, happy, frustrated, upset, embarrassed, and loved.

It is all part of the Adventure and I went through it (many years ago) and I am glad that they will be here with us in Leon and that we can help them through it also....God Bless and
We are READY!!!

Tana

Kids Classes

2009-05-21T17:48:00.004-05:00

The Wednesday Night and Sunday night kids classes have been steady and the class grows.
At first I sometimes get tired the day I know that I will be teaching that night. But when I am there, sharing God's love and mine with the kids week after week I am blessed always.

These children are the future of the Church. They are learning not only about the fluffy normal kids class church curriculum, but we talk about sin such as hate and coveting. They are learning and are very respectful to listening to God's word at such a young age.
It seems tiring now, but I am so glad that God is using me to plant His word in their hearts. They are already so great and their hearts are so big that I think God has great plans for them and I am glad to be a part of it.
Tana

Privacy...

2009-05-11T09:28:00.003-05:00

So, this morning at the gym the trainer asked me if I wanted him to hook up my I-pod to the stereo system there. (They really don't play good music) Since We were the only ones there he said we could hear our music. I said yes, put it on the Rock genre and he hooked it up.
But then after a few songs played I realized how private the music each person puts on their music players.
I suddenly felt an invasion of privacy, wondering if after every song passed the people were thinking how bad my music choices were.....
Omar made sure to let me know what songs he didn't like.
After a while I got over the embarrassment, but it still made me realize how private we make everything... even our music.
We are so individualistic we don't even like to share our music... sometimes...
I think for my own embarrasment sake I will not share my I-Pod at the gym anymore... I would have been embarrassed if a few Hannah Montana songs played ( I have a lot) and I probably would have gotten glares from Omar And the Trainer!!!!

LOL Tana

Happy 3rd Birthday Maicah...

2009-05-07T08:11:00.005-05:00

Three years ago today God gave me my second baby.. my first boy, my Maicah Gonzalo. He has been a joy in three years. He is smart and funny and a true boy, running, jumping, and being super-heroes all the time. I love you Maicah. We are going to have a Ben 10 Birthday party and cake for him tomorrow. I love you Maicah and I am Glad God sent you to us...
Love your mama...

.

Four arms... the piñata...

Maicah at two weeks old....

Eat this not that!!!

2009-05-07T08:08:00.003-05:00

Pretty interesting stuff.... I'm going to look for the book....Tana

Best and Worst Brain Foods

By David Zinczenko, with Matt Goulding - Posted on Fri, May 01, 2009, 1:43 pm PDT

Eat This, Not That
by David Zinczenko, with Matt Goulding a Yahoo! Health Expert for Nutrition

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If you want to make the right decisions in confusing times—Time to refinance? Explore a different career? Root for the singing spinster or the 12-year-old?—you need to pay special attention to what you eat. That’s right: Your grocery list can help with your to-do list. That’s because the right foods are a kind of clean-burning fuel for your body’s biggest energy hog: Your brain. A study in the Journal of Physiology makes the point that, though your brain represents only 2 percent of your body weight, it makes 20 percent of the energy demands on your resting metabolism.

On our new Eat This, Not That! Web site, we rounded up the best foods to munch on when you need a mental boost—and found studies that show, in fact, that you can be up to 200 percent more productive if you make the right eating choices. Stock up on these items to halt mental decline, jog your memory, sharpen your senses, improve your performance, activate your feel-good hormones, and protect your quick-witted sharpness, whether you’re 15, 40—or not admitting to any age whatsoever!

FOR SHORT-TERM MEMORY
Drink This!: COFFEE

Fresh-brewed joe is the ultimate brain fuel. Caffeine has been shown to retard the aging process and enhance short-term memory performance. In one study, British researchers found that just one cup of coffee helps improve attention and problem-solving skills.

Not That!: ENERGY DRINKS/TOO MUCH COFFEE

Ever heard of the concept “too much of a good thing”? If you OD on caffeine—too many cups, a jolt of caf from the late afternoon onward, a Red Bull cocktail—it can mess with your shuteye schedule. Sleep is reboot time for your mental computer, and you don’t want to mess with it.

FOR LONG-TERM MEMORY
Eat This!: BLUEBERRIES

Antioxidants in blueberries help protect the brain from free-radical damage and cut your risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. They can also improve cognitive processing (translation: thinking). Wild blueberries, if you can find them, have even more brain-boosting antioxidants than the cultivated variety, so book that vacation in Maine now. The berries will ripen in July.

Not That!: THE UNRIPE AND UNREADY

Here’s a cool tip: if your favorite berries are out of season, buy them frozen. The freezer locks in peak flavor and nutrients, so the berries’ antioxidant capacity is maxed out. Those pale, tough, and expensive off-season berries usually ripen on a truck, rather than on the bush, so they’re nutritional imposters compared to the real thing.

For more smart shopping tips, point your grocery cart to THIS story and learn how to pick the most delicious and nutritious while controlling your waistline!

TO THINK FASTER
Eat This!: SALMON OR MACKEREL

If the Internal Revenue Service picks you for some up-close-and-personal auditing, you’ll want to be on your toes when they vet your deductions list. So put salmon or mackerel on the grocery list. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fishes are a primary building block of brain tissue, so they’ll amp up your thinking power. Salmon is also rich in niacin, which can help ward off Alzheimer’s disease and slow the rate of cognitive decline.

Not That!: FULL-FAT ICE CREAM

Not all fats are created equal: Beware foods high in saturated fats, which can clog blood vessels and prevent the flow of nutrients and blood to the brain. Ice cream is not a brain-health food.

TO ENERGIZE:
Eat This!: HIGH-PROTEIN SALAD WITH VINAIGRETTE

The oil in the dressing will help slow down digestion of protein and carbs in the salad, stabilizing blood-sugar levels and keeping energy levels high. Build your salad on a bed of romaine and spinach for an added boost in riboflavin, and add chicken and a hard-boiled egg for more energizing protein.

For other tips on how to build the perfect salad, check out the Eat This, Not That! ultimate salad selector.

Not That!: PANCAKES OR BAGELS

MIT researchers analyzed blood samples from a group of people who had eaten either a high-protein or a high-carbohydrate breakfast. Two hours after eating, the carb eaters had tryptophan levels four times higher than those of the people who had eaten protein. The tryptophan in turkey is one of the reasons you crawl off for an afternoon nap after Thanksgiving dinner. So watch what you gobble.

TO CALM DOWN
Eat This!: LOW-FAT YOGURT OR MIXED NUTS

Scientists in Slovakia gave people 3 grams each of two amino acids—lysine and arginine—or a placebo, and asked them to deliver a speech. Blood measurements of stress hormones revealed that the amino acid-fortified guys were half as anxious during and after the speech as those who took the placebo. Yogurt is one of the best food sources of lysine; nuts pack loads of arginine.

Not That!: SODA

A study from the American Journal of Public Health found that people who drink 2½ cans of soda daily are three times more likely to be depressed and anxious, compared with those who drink fewer. So Mountain Dew is a Mental Don’t.

TO CONCENTRATE
Eat This!: PEPPERMINT TEA

The scent of peppermint helps you focus and boosts performance, according to researchers. Need to reach Chicago before nightfall, and you’re stuck in traffic around Cleveland? One study found that peppermint makes drivers more alert and less anxious.

Not That!: CANDY

Sugary foods incite sudden surges of glucose that, in the long term, cause sugar highs and lows, leading to a fuzzy state of mind. So you’ll need to avoid all the attention-busting sugar bombs on this list of the 20 most sugar-packed foods in America.

FOR GOOD MOODS AND GRINS
Eat This! ARUGULA OR SPINACH SALAD

Leafy greens—arugula, chard, spinach—are rich sources of B vitamins, which are key components on the assembly line that manufactures feel-good hormones such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. According to a study published in the Journal of Neuroscience Nursing, a lack of B6 can cause nervousness, irritability, and even depression.

Not That!: WHITE CHOCOLATE

White chocolate isn’t chocolate at all, since it contains no cocoa solids. So it won’t stimulate the euphoria-inducing mood boosters like serotonin, as real chocolate does. Grab the real thing, the darker the better. More cacao means more happy chemicals and less sugar, which will eventually pull you down.

FOR SHARPER SENSES
Eat This!: 1 TBSP OF GROUND FLAXSEED DAILY

Flax is the best source of alphalinoleic, or ALA—a healthy fat that improves the workings of the cerebral cortex, the area of the brain that processes sensory information, including that of pleasure. To meet your quota, sprinkle it on salads or mix it into a smoothie or shake.

Not That!: ALCOHOL

This one’s obvious, but worth mentioning anyway. A drink or two can increase arousal signals, but more than that will actually depress your nervous system. This makes you sloppy, not sharp.

Want more of all of the best and worst foods in America? Click here for the complete list of drinks, snacks, drive-thru foods, burgers, salads and everything else under the sun!

Finally, get your FREE Eat This, Not That! newsletter so you can have smart shopping and eating tips, tricks and tactics delivered straight to your inbox three times a week!

taken from : http://health.yahoo.com/experts/eatthis/31477/best-and-worst-brain-foods/

Crazy Flu Days

2009-05-02T23:48:00.005-05:00

Well, The kids have gotten a wonderful new "Spring break" here in Mexico with this Swine Flu thing going on ... I know I am so scientific....

Anyways... many here in Mexico are now saying that the Gov. is blowing it way out of proportion so that people are wiggin out over it instead of the new laws that they are supposedly passing... But who really knows... I am not much into conspiracy theories either... but I do know that there has only been two cases of it here in Leon and one is at home resting... the other is in the hospital.. but only because he waited till he reached pneumonia before he went to the hospital.. Not anyone is really sick that I know of, but all the schools have been closed till May 6th....
Which brings me back to my original reason for posting...
The kids are having a blast, playing all day, making crafts, helping me cook and bake and most of all swimming... They have been swimming every day in their bath tub in the front patio.. today they even got Omar and I to join them, it was so HOT.... No wonder they like it so much...
We were all refreshed and ready for a "Spring cleaning session with Omar, getting all the old toys and trash out of their rooms...
Over all- Omar and I have not had much time to do our "grown up things" but it has been so much fun being with the kids, albeit tiring, that I don't mind at all...
Here are some pics of the "swimming day" today.....

Omar with the kids...

Kids...

Me and the Kids...

Happy Anniversary Omar!!!

2009-04-17T08:52:00.005-05:00

Today we have been married 11 years!!! Happy Anniversary OMAR.... I Love YOU!!!!

FINALLY!!!!

2009-03-25T23:48:00.001-06:00

So, I finally have a semi-ready website:
It combines the work I will be doing with the Aimers here in Leon for Spanish class, but also has links to my new blog that will be for ESL, Spanish and Linguistic information that I will be adding to.
It will have also links, help and advice for those of you learning Spanish that may not live here in LEON with us.

I hope you all like it. I actually had fun making it. It is not done, but I believe it is a good start.

Thanks, Tana

http://web.me.com/ladyverlane/Spaleonish/Home.html

Clase Publica

2009-03-20T16:34:00.003-06:00

Every school year the kids' school has what they call "clase publica" (or public class). This is where basically the students and teachers show the parents what they have learned in their English and Spanish classes. Emma had hers on Tuesday and Maicah had his today. They both did a great job.I just thank God that my kids are growing up and they are enjoyig their life here in Mexico. They are bilingual and they love to go to the church and work with people. They both did great in class and I was proud to see their growth.
I makes my heart swell up just too much to see how fast they are growing. I wish I could slow down the process, but it is not possible. Instead I am praying that I can learn to enjoy and get the most out of each day with them. Here are some pictures from their public classes:Singing song...

Emma in her Public class

Maicah and his friend Pablo

Maicah singing in class

Comanjilla and Potluck

2009-03-04T10:12:00.001-06:00

Whirlwind....

2009-02-16T16:46:00.006-06:00

J'lae teaching the kids..her last sunday

Tim and Omar talking over breakfast.

The Rush kids and the Palafox kids...

There have been way too many things going on here... I have started a new site for Spanish, but I have not put it up yet.. still a lot of work. We just had a marriage seminar at the church taught by Tim and Kim Rush from Guadalajara. They did a great job and it was great to spend time with them and their kids.
We are also getting ready to say goodbye to another Aimer - J'Lae. It will be hard when she leaves on Thursday. She has been great and has really worked hard with us and the church. She has a heart to teach and serve and we pray that she will continue to grow and walk with God.

I am getting more and more excited about our kids growing and learning. It is fun to see them in our environment, learning and growing with everyone in the church and work here in Leon. We have some big events coming up with the church in March and we are preparing for that. The church is growing, the youth too. Over all we are blessed to be a part of this work.

Emma and Ximena at small group.

Maicah showing me all the flavored chili for our Jicama at small group.

January Newsletter

2009-01-28T16:18:00.002-06:00

Here is my January newsletter for those who did not get it in email form....

Fifth Christmas in Mexico...

2008-12-25T22:53:00.003-06:00

Well, believe it or not, we just celebrated our FIFTH Christmas in Mexico. I can't believe how fast time flies by. The kids are growing so fast and I realize more and more that we have to live daily and make the most of everyday, not living in the past (but learning from it) and not living in the future (tomorrow I'll...).
It has been a great Christmas. Much less buying this year, but we have had a great time with family. Barb and Shawn did not go to the states for Xmas so we had all the "Palafox" family here together.
My family was all together in Arizona and we go to talk on the phone and see each other through the computer so it was all good.
May God bless you this Christmas and Have a happy New Year...
Soon, I will be back online...
Love, Tana

"This time, like all times, is a very good one, if we but know what to do with it": Ralph Waldo Emerson

Omar got me a really cool new purse

Emma "reads" to Maicah in the morning....before the big day

Sad Day

2008-12-04T18:24:00.002-06:00

Today our male dog, Cyrus, had a heart attack and passed away. We were playing ball with him and suddenly he fell to the ground and he was gone. The vet said that he had heart problems and this was not something we could have prevented. He was so energetic and I know he was just a dog, but he was part of the family and we miss him. We still have the female, Molly,and we will try to keep her happy and play with her now that she is alone.

I am sad.....
Tana

Pray for J'Lae

2008-12-01T16:40:00.002-06:00

Please pray for J'Lae and her family, especially her mom, Linda. Her grandfather passed away suddenly last night. She leaves tomorrow to be with her family. He will be with our Father in Heaven, but pray that her family can comfort each other with the comfort that God gives us in Jesus Christ. we love you J'lae...

Missionary retreat

2008-12-01T15:55:00.004-06:00

Well, the retreat is over. It was great. We had a great time and it was good to be with all the missionaries that came from all over Mexico. We missed a few families and we prayed for them. It was in Guanajuato and Our team was in charge. It was a blessing and worth all the hard work. It was a good time to remember how much we love each other and that our unity is in Christ. My kids especially had fun being with all the other MS kids... Here are some pics..

Omar, Sam and the newest Gonzalez, Isabella...

Julia Thornton and Emma

Good Thanksgiving dinner

.
Doug and some of the older missionary kids discussing thanksgiving and blessings from God.

In the Hotel room after a long day....

Nice bonfire to keep us warm.. thanks Shawn

The very excited Nerts players, just one of many games we played during "game night"...

Time

2008-10-31T09:14:00.002-06:00

Well, I am just getting back to the swing of things... I am sorry if I have not posted in a while. I kind of stop getting on the computer after I graduated and I think I was (or am) just burned out with it.... So I am going through a little dry spell. I don't feel like even looking at the computer etc...I have been reading a good book that Linda Merritt gave me about organization (thanks Linda!!) so I think maybe when I finish that I will be ready to start again and I have on paper my Spanish website organized so I will let everyone know when I get it up... thanks guys.

God bless all and hope the Lord is blessing you like He is blessing us here in Leon...
Tana

Had to put this up!!!

2008-09-30T19:41:00.003-05:00

Maicah getting "down" with his cousins, Tana and Kylie....

Even though he is the only boy, he is having fun....

They are having fun playing in the nice weather also...

Brooklyn has been helping Emma with her homework, which is nice...

In Arizona

2008-09-28T23:42:00.002-05:00

So we are here in Arizona with my family. God is blessing us with friends and family. I missed our church family in Leon today, but the church we went to here was small and loving.
Hope to give more exciting news, but for now I am trying to enjoy my family and relax.
LOL Tana

Mexican Independence

2008-09-17T15:53:00.005-05:00

Omar enjoying good Food.....

Me with Emma, Estrella, and Maicah...

Emma and Kayson.... Maicah in his "revolucionario" outfit....

Well, we had a great party for the Mexican Independence day. The members brought food and we had "pozole" and nachos... It was fun and a great fellowship time and time to spend with brothers and sisters in Christ. As always the kids had fun because they got to hit two piñatas and eat tons of candy... We had fun and Emma and Maicah looked cute in their costumes....

Julieta Venegas Concert

2008-09-17T15:28:00.004-05:00

So a few weeks ago, there was a free Julieta Venegas concert in Leon. We live right off of a main street here and real close to the new public library and University of Guanajuato Arts department. They are holding all kinds of artsy concerts and shows the whole month. The Aim girls, Andrea (one of the members of the church) and I went to see her. We were really far away but the music was great and we had a good time.
It was fun, but I only had my cell phone with me, so this video is the only thing that I have. I think Annie took some pics, I will ask her.

Thanks

2008-09-10T23:56:00.002-05:00

Thanks to God's grace my Grandma was out of surgery yesterday afternoon. The doctors successfully put in a pacemaker and now she is resting. She will hopefully be home tomorrow and I will try to get a hold of her and talk to her a little. She is already eating and moving around. Thanks to all of you for your support and prayers and please keep praying for her continual healing.

thanks ------Tana

Recent Stuff

2008-09-07T16:36:00.001-05:00

Pray for Jean

2008-09-06T08:32:00.004-05:00

It has taken me a while to write about this because I am not there and it has been very emotional for me. But, please pray for my grandma, Jean. She is very close to me, like a mother, and I miss and love her very much. She has been having lots of heart problems, in and out of the hospital and they finally have figured out she needs a pacemaker.
She is finally calm and talking to me on the phone, now that she knows what is wrong with her.
I wish I could be there so I am praying a lot that she will be ok.
Please pray that she can get in to do the surgery ASAP, it is a minor surgery and considered out-patient surgery. She is just waiting for them to call and tell her when.
Pray that she will have good Doctors and have a good surgery, pray also that she can have a good recovery and be able to get back to the things she likes doing. Please pray for my mother also, that she can be there for her mom and that she can be strong and help her. Pray that this will bring my family closer to Christ. Thanks....Tana

GRADUATION!!!

2008-09-01T23:54:00.002-05:00

Well, after two years of whining and complaining (probably only to Omar) I have finally finished my masters. It was hard. I was stressed at many times because of the burden I felt to continue the work with the church and of course my family.
I feel that I did not really let anyone down, altough I know I could have always done more.
Thank you all that helped me along the way and for your prayers. I feel good that I am finished and I am ready to take a break from the long hours on my computer (yeah right!!!)
thanks to all and God Bless....

Ladies Class and beyond

2008-09-01T23:36:00.003-05:00

On Saturday we had another great ladies class. It rained at the beginning, but then stopped and allowed us to enjoy being with one another. Barb did a great job organizing it and making the atmosphere "lovely and inviting." The Aim girls all helped and participated.
The neatest thing is that J'Lae, one of our Aim girls, did the lesson about our hearts. She did a great job. She has good spanish and is a great teacher at such a young age.

I thank God that I get to work with women like Barb, Esperanza, Patty and the Aim girls. I could go on and on. Without them the women ministry would not be as big as it has gotten. They are all a blessing.

First days of school

2008-08-26T18:12:00.002-05:00

Maicah finally is not sick and this week he started back to school. He missed the first week, but did not miss much actual work. He and Emma are very excited and they seem to be doing well so far. Emma already has lots of homework, but she is having a good time. She has a great English teacher and her Spanish teacher is very good with helping her with handwriting so far.. Please pray for them in this new school year.

Rain

2008-08-24T22:50:00.002-05:00

I am starting to hate rain. I really don't mind rain and the freshness that it brings... but the problem here is that it does not rain, then when it finally does (as it has been the past few nights here in Leon) it really rains and floods everything.. Our kitchen and livingroom usually flood when the rain is so hard like this, so it is just so frustrating to hear and see the huge amount of rain and flooding on our street, because I know if I go downstairs all is wet...

Oh well, I will clean it up tomorrow, because I am tooo tired right now.... goodnight....

Throw UP.....

2008-08-24T22:32:00.004-05:00

Well, now Emma is sick, she has been sick since Thursday and we are taking care of her. She has not stopped playing or wanting to eat, but I have let her eat much less, because unlike Maicah, she throws up a lot more...
It made me start thinking... I don't know if all moms of toddlers and young children are this way, but I have seen so much vomit that it does not faze me anymore.

I have seen the "exorcist" shoot straight out vomit... (Usually right on me)

I have seen the "Mommy, I feel.....vomit" (again, right on me)

I have heard the "mommy... splat....) (this one is not on me, but it usually is after I clean up)

I have heard Emma running to the bathroom and then follow her, only to find that she had already thrown up on the way as I slip and fall in it...... (That was my favorite)

I have scooped up vomit, washed it out of rugs, blankets, toys, pillows, car seats... etc....

I will not go on, since I am loosing the readers already...

But, what is amazing is how God makes mothers. How many people can handle all this??
We love our kids and as long as they keep getting sick, we will be there to clean it up.....
I know you mothers are on my side when I say, it is not fun, but our love is GREATER...
I think God must feel the same way about us... he loves us, even after cleaning up all our messes!!!!!

Maicah

2008-08-15T18:32:00.002-05:00

Please Pray for Maicah, he has been sick to his stomach for a week and now he has fever and seems to be worse. He is taking about five medicines and the doctor said to just watch him and keep taking them. I really hope that he gets better soon so he can start school on Monday. Thanks....

Nightime laughs

2008-08-08T21:24:00.003-05:00

So, I am working on my computer and it is late. Maicah is asleep and Omar lets Emma "work" on his computer. She loves to type and pretends she is working like mom and dad. Tonight was a special occasion because we had a great laugh:

Emma: Mom, I am working like you.

ME: mmm. that's nice....

Emma: can you help me type my name?

ME: yes, like this( I type it and go through the process of showing her)

(only the sound of the keyboards are heard...)

Emma: PPPPFFFRTT!!! (She lets out a nice gas from her lower region (a fart....))

ME: EMMA, That's gross!!

Emma: What? Daddy does that when he is working!!

Well, I could not stop laughing for a while and now I am going to bed.....HE HE....

Lots of work

2008-07-26T16:04:00.004-05:00

Working at the building...

So, we had the group from Richland Hills here and they worked extra hard. They did not get to rest and I felt bad, but I know that God used them and they were blessed by Him also. We also had the blessing of being visited by Lindsey Vivian, one of our Ex-Aimers, Chris and Rachel Bennett, also ex-Leon Aimers. Emma and Maicah had a great time with all that was going on.
It was a blessing to see how these guys have grown and the plans they have for their futures.

It reminds me how much God uses all these guys while they are here and the heart he gives them for missions and the lost. I was really glad they came for a visit and I know the kids loved it too....Rachel and Lindsey...

Chris and Emma

Lindsey and Maicah

We have another group coming from Mesquite TX tonight, so I can't wait to see what God has in store this week...

Almost a month

2008-07-15T23:28:00.006-05:00

Well, it has been almost a month since I have posted. The thing I love to do the most, talk to an audience that does not talk back, (or write in this case) I have'nt been able to do. I cannot make any real good excuses (and they are all excuses, because I could have made time to write and post)becuase Omar has done a great job keeping up with all or work this summer. So, If you were looking here to see what has been going on, you should just click on over to our family website, it is really well updated....

I am just kind of tired and too filled up (mentally) to write in an organized fashion.

I will say:

I am finishing a class and have six more weeks of one more class to finish my masters. If all goes well then I will graduate around the end of september.

We have been busy with VBS, studies, groups, kids, family and house busisness.

God is showing me in the midst of all the work how much he uses people to love and comfort others.

I am learning that the most important thing is that there is only one God and I should only worship Him... all else falls correctly into place when I do this.

I like the game memory and go fish.

I like the rain we have had.

I am praying for my parents to come visit this year.

My grandma is sick, I am worried, but I am praying.

I miss all our friends and supporters that are traveling and busy.

I am enjoying my time with the kids out of school. we have had fun.

God is being glorified.

I need to sleep sometime

Here are some pics of the kids.... they have had a great vacation so far:

Bathing the babies:

Painting the patio.....

fun in Guadalajara.....

There was a sign in Guadalajara that sums it all up>>>>>> it says, "Jesus is Cool"

And that is that....

When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, "I used everything you gave me".

----Erma Bombeck

Funny

2008-06-25T17:14:00.002-05:00

Ok, I just never wrote about my b-day... Omar did... oh well.....
BUt, this video is funny and it makes me think of many mistakes I made while learning Spanish...
German Coast Guard

Dagwood sandwich shoppes

2008-06-16T22:47:00.002-05:00

Hey All, I promise tomorrow I will post what I did for my b-day with some pics... I forgot....

BUt I wanted you all to get a chance to see my sister and brother in law's shoppe. Here is a link : Dustin's Video. It is a local news show that gets recipes.... It is neet to see him and the shoppe. ENJOY....

Family Pictures

2008-06-07T16:38:00.001-05:00

Mothers Day Breakfast

2008-05-21T14:29:00.007-05:00

Every year Lomas, the school where Mason, Madi, Emma and Maicah go, have a fancy breakfast for mothers on Mother's Day. The students all do different dances for the moms while they are being served their food. It is really fun to see all the kids and all the different dances every year. Yesterday, we had the breakfast even though Mothers Day had allready passed. They also give us a present, which is not ready yet so who knows, but I still had a great time and It was a real special day...Emma's class did a "chicken dance" it was really cute and the first time that she really danced and liked it....

The Older students from the Elementary sang a song to us before the dancing started. Most of them did songs from High School Musical because they had also done it as a play in April and many mothers wanted to see them dance again.

Most of all I am just blessed with two beautiful children. I am glad that God made me a mother. I know that there are growing pains, but I love it and I am glad that my children are growing in God with me.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY OMAR!!!!!

2008-05-18T11:14:00.002-05:00

Omar, Happy Birthday. I love you and I hope that you have a good day. I thank God everyday for a great man of God that you are to me, the kids, and the church. I pray today that he continues to bless you in all that you do. I love you,

Tana.

When are you leaving???

2008-05-17T10:05:00.003-05:00

Lately I have been asked by friends in the States the same question: When are you leaving?
I don't understand exactly why that question gets asked...

Before I start answering the question I wanted to add a clarification: What I will write is only my opinion and it does not mean that I think that no missionary should ever leave or take furloughs. I do believe that when the time is right a missionary should move on and start somewhere else, that is the whole point right?

Eventually we all move on for various reasons: The work does not need us, health, age, children etc.... So, I am just talking about my feelings for right now and the fact that I am confused that people ask missionaries that question.

OK so people ask me: When are you leaving? and the first thing that comes to mind is:

1. Why would I leave a place where I get to work for God 24/7 and I get to be with my family and I get to live in a really cool country.

2. Do I need to be thinking about leaving? Or should I be focused on today? "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Mathew 6:34

3. Can't a missionary stay until their job is done? Especially if they are healthy and have supporters behind them as well as the work?

4. Who gets to decide what I feel or how I am?????
5. Can't I use my talents to live in a foreign place without problem? I think it would be wrong to bury that talent.

6. Where do I draw the line at planning for the future (which is good) and living day by day?

7. My kids are growing up bilingual and they are happy and healthy.

8. What would you say if I asked you: "hey, how are you? So, when are you leaving your work?" I think it is just a weird question...

Well, I am not trying to offend anyone, I just want to know why people ask that..... As I said, I know missionaries will come and go for various reasons, and I am not saying that is wrong. But right now for me I would like people to just say, that they are encouraged, that we are doing well or even just "hi".
I love all my friends and family and I want you all to know that I am happy, joyful, growing and I love doing what I do. I have so many plans for the future and dreams, but I take it day by day, working for God and living in his Grace, doing all that I can for the kingdom where I am at and whenever I can.... Isn't that what we all as Christians should do?

Love, Tana

Maicah is TWO...

2008-05-08T17:24:00.003-05:00

My baby is two years old allready. I cannot beleive it. He turned two yesterday, May 7th. We had a party for him at church after our wed night bible class. He liked his cake, but was shy and did not like the attention. He is very happy with all his Presents (thanks to the Aimers, Rubios and the Garys)
He was embarrased when we sang to him.

He had fun with his presents.....

We are blessed with a great boy. Love you Maicah.

Pictures from Omar's Eye laser thing....

2008-05-08T17:17:00.003-05:00

As most of you know, Omar had the Lasic on his eyes. He is doing well and I forgot to post the pics I took. Sorry they are not too good, I just had my cell phone with me.

Going in....

Getting ready

One Eye done, now to the next.....

In Recovery. His "surgery" took 25 mins. Then he stayed in Recovery 30.

Recent Pictures

2008-05-01T10:54:00.001-05:00

Dan and Jess

2008-04-17T22:27:00.004-05:00

Speaking of marriage. I have been praying and ask your prayers for my sister and brother-in-law, Dan and Jess. He is off to the the war again and is traveling in Europe on his way to the middle east.

I know it is hard on Jess and my three nieces and on him to be away from his family. I ask for your prayers that he will come home quickly and safely. We love you Dan.

Ten Years

2008-04-17T22:23:00.001-05:00

Today Omar and I had our Tenth Anniversary. It was nice and relaxing and I am very blessed to be married and to be growing closer to my husband everyday. I am blessed to have such a man of God to guide our family.

I love you honey!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tana

AIMERS

2008-04-13T22:36:00.006-05:00

Well, we have been blessed by the Aimers that have come and gone and that are still here. We miss the ones that have gone, they have forever left their mark of love, service, and devotion to Christ and his Church. And we thank them for giving the church here in Leon the time that they

did.....

J'Lae and Jasmine. J'lae is a great servant and leader with all here. She is growing and studying with many....

I just wanted to point out all the work they do here and how much they help both missionary families and the church. It is such a blessing to see them work with the many youth and young people that we have... and not only on sunday. The Aimers are the ones that have the time to visit, study with and encourage these young people on a weekly basis.

Tyler running with the kids.... He helps in many areas, and is a great servant...

It is hard to think that we will go without Aimers for a while and I hope that from this next class God will bless us with more. Leon is such a great place for Aimers. It is a safe place to live, and not too expensive. The church is growing and there is so many places they can fit, and it is not too far from home.

Megan working on the "lords supper".... she has really grown and is moving and studying with people all the time.

Ben and Rafael.... Ben is working in so many areas.

They do so much work that we just can't do. They really are a great blessing and I for one am very happy that they are here with us.

Annie and Leti... She is a great encourager to all the church and the kids...

Bill is doing a great ministry with Lets start talking....

Donovan is a true evangelist at heart, always moving, and with people, sharing the Gospel of Christ to all...

I thank God for his wisdom and grace and I know that He is the one using them to His Glory!!!

Super Fast Trip....

2008-04-11T22:26:00.005-05:00

We were surprised and richly blessed by Randy and Evelyn Arnold this past weekend. They are the parents of Matt Arnold, our teammate from Ecuador. We were with him as Aimers in Ecuador in 1996... I know a long time ago. He got married ten years after we did (our anniversary is this April 17th...)

Anyways, Randy and Evelyn called us and asked us to come to the wedding. They said that as a present to Matt and to us they wanted to buy the tickets and the hotel room. It was a surprise, but we went to Los Angeles on Thursday and returned on Monday. It was a fast trip, but we were able to meet a lot of new friends and a few old ones. Thechurch there is small, but it was at and very encouraging.

Sierra Madre Church of Christ

Us and the New couple: Matt and Mindy Arnold

Getting the table decorations ready....

We were able to accomplish a lot in a short time. My family (except parents) live in Torrance, Ca, so we were able to see my cousin Matt Singer.

We were also able to see Omar's great - aunt and second cousins who also live near L.A. He had not seen them in 14 years. (but we forgot to take pictures...arg....)

We were able to help with the wedding, go bowling, go to church

Eat good food (like In-n-Out Burger MMM)

Most of all we were able to be with good people of God who really encouraged us. This was a blessing and we are so grateful to God for using the Arnold's to encourage us. Thank You.....

Really good lobster (part of the 12 course meal at the reception... It was All good.....)

Having Fun...

2008-03-10T21:28:00.002-06:00

Donovan and Emma having fun....

Well, here in Leon-land we are joyfully having fun... I say that because I have seen that this team, the Aimers, and all the workers here at the church in Leon are working, living and serving God in JOY... We all seem to be letting the good things and the trials work in us. It is so encouraging to see everyone trusting in God and growing. These months have been especially hard for me, because I am finishing up my masters and the school that I worked at has been really bothering me to go back and work.
I realized that For me this would be bad. I noticed that I hide at the school. There I do not have to think or worry about the ministry that we are doing here. I hide in the job and I do nothing with the women's ministry or children's ministry.... this is OK for me, but I see that it can affect other areas. So, I have made the decision that there is just too much going on in the church work for me to "wig out" ( I know that is an old phrase)... I don't know if I am being clear... the thing is for me I can work at the school here and do nothing else, my excuse for not doing studies and leadership work would be I am working... I believe that it is not bad for me to work, but that right now the church needs me and that God will bless us. I have felt so much joy since making this decision and I know that I do want to teach and be "professional" some day, but it will always be there...
Anyways. I am happy, joyful and I am glad that the break is here in March to take some time to just have fun..
thanks for all the prayers and love.
I pray that God is showing you his grace in love and that you also have the joy He gives just because we are his children.. Love, Tana

Aimers learning from Shawn.... Good classes...

"Working for God, with JOY!!!!!"