Logans in South Africa

Farewell

2009-03-17T21:32:00.008-04:00

Today marks three months since we left South Africa. Ironically, it also marks what would have been our first year there. We’re still unsure of what happened. Why we were asked to come and why we were suddenly asked to leave. Only God knows the answer to that question.

We struggled so hard to know how to respond. We struggled if we should respond to anything. But in the end I think all we can say is that we did our best despite the issues we faced. Did we do everything perfect? Did we make mistakes? I’m sure we did, but it could have turned out differently if things were handled differently - in love rather than indifference. We were never informed of any specific errors or problems, just handed our walking papers.

Despite this we know we worked as the Lord led us to work, we worked with the resources available, we worked with the obstacles we encountered and God blessed and we saw souls saved. We believe this was the most important thing and the sole purpose of us going to South Africa. As Kevin and I discuss our work there we recount the students who’s lives we saw change because of the Lord’s love in them. We saw them make a decision to tell the truth when it benefited them nothing. We saw them apologize for their error in judgement, when the only reward was a “thank you”. We saw them gather with no incentive but to learn more about God. And we rest on that. We rest on the fact that God used us, and at the end of the day, THAT is all that matters.

We are still waiting upon the Lord for our next “assignment”. While Kevin was not able to return to AT&T, they did graciously extend his leave for another year. So should his position be available again it will be easier to step back in. We are also in the process of applying with an established youth organization that looks promising. And we’ve got plenty of applications floating around. But as many of you know it’s been difficult to get anything.

We are so thankful and blessed that my parents have graciously allowed us to live at their house until we are able to support ourselves once again. If not for them, I don’t know where we would be. Probably living in one of those tent cities popping up everywhere. Emily is always asking to go camping…

We just wanted to thank everyone for the opportunity to serve our Lord in South Africa. Thank you for your prayers, support, love, and confidence in our abilities and calling. We are thankful to our Lord and Savior that He blessed us with the opportunity to share His love and salvation with the children in Mitchells Plain. We do miss them, especially those that grew close to our hearts. We’re just saddened by the fact that we won’t be able to further nurture the new hope they have found in Christ. We pray that our sudden departure hasn’t effect their new relationship with Him. Our hope is that our love for them, our treatment of them, our excitement over their decision to follow Christ will be enough to encourage them not to allow these bumps in life to sway them from His love, His hope and His truths.

We are most thankful for all the notes of encouragement that we received upon the news of our leaving. Especially from the parents of some of the children we were blessed to come to know. We do not look at this as a failure, for we are confident that God did not send us to Mitchells Plain to fail. We do not look at this as a waste of our time nor money, for God’s work is never a waste. We look at this as lessons learned and most importantly as obedience to the One who called us.

We may never know why we were sent home after only seven months, but we know God is faithful. We know He is trustworthy and we can only lean on Him and not our own understanding.

So with much regard, a final farewell to all things South Africa, and looking ahead to what’s to come…

Kevin, Holly, Emily & Katie

Now What

2009-01-05T17:08:00.007-05:00

We got the news Monday, Kevin will NOT be returning to AT&T. They are in fact over the number of techs needed and will be letting go of a number State wide.

This was a much angrier post on Monday, but I've deleted all that. Two days later I'm still scared, still unsure of how we're going to survive. The thing that really upsets me most is that if someone, anyone, would have taken the time to sit down and discuss things with us, we might still be in South Africa seeing more kids come to know Him as Lord and Savior. The absolute truth is we don't know why we were sent home. No one talked to us. We were just handed a letter and that was that. We left that place with just four crying girls to see us off. And for the month we had to pack and prepare to come home, those same four girls were our only real visitors. Why do Christians treat each other so horrid?

Anyway what are our options? Kevin heads to Colorado this weekend for a Discernment Conference with a ministry of Youth For Christ. We've also gotten an offer to serve at a church a few hours north of Miami. The job market right now is so tight that its almost impossible to find work. Had we known further on that we were coming back we could have had more time to look. I do feel panic. But I keep reminding myself that I have to trust in the Lord. He is faithful, His is trustworthy. He knows the plans He has for us, just wish He'd tell us!

So that's where we stand as the new year begins - jobless, homeless, and just confused as to what this past year was all about. Was it a waste? Not really because we saw so many kids come to know Christ as Lord and Savior, we saw them changing, we began to see fruit. Its just a shame that no one else bothered to look. What the issues were we may never know. But we know our place before God and in the end that's all that matters really.

And just so you know, technically we're not homeless. We're living with my parents. The four of us in one room, in one bed. Which I guess isn't too much of a change since the girls always came into our room in the middle of the night anyway. All our belongings stored in the garage still in boxes and suitcases. Without jobs we can't afford our mortgage and the rest, so the renters will hopefully stay for a while.

So please continue to pray for us. We have lots of decisions to make and lots of unanswered questions. I for one would like to move back to our house, but honestly I don't think that will happen. Only God can make that happen at this point and unfortunately I can't see past my nose right now. I know in a year's time I'll look back at today and praise God for it, but when you're in the midst of it all, that's very difficult. At the very least I can lean on Him, for He is strong enough to bare my burdens and this heavy yoke that I keep trying to carry around by myself.

So that's the update. If you're on our mailing list, you should be getting our last letter soon. Thanks Jescel for doing that for us. Thanks again to all of you who come by to read, support, and pray for us. It does so much to encourage us. Will post again when something new happens.
If you want to keep up with us until then, you can check out Life with the Logans.

Home

2008-12-19T05:23:00.003-05:00

Well, its almost 5:30AM Miami time and well, I've been up since 1:30AM. Why such an ungodly hour? Because my girls are still on South Africa time. They were asleep at 3PM and up at 130Am (that's 10pm & 8:30am SA time).

So we're home. It was a long trip. The girls were perfect on the plane. A little hard to handle on the ground - all the pent-up energy I guess.

After a tearful goodbye to "our girls", dropping the keys at the Frog Center, the car service drove us to the airport and then the fun really began. We had 4 boxes, 4 suitcases, Kevin's guitar, the diaper bag, two backpacks, three carry-ons and Katie's car seat. Oy!!! We had 4 guys pushing our stuff to the check-in! Out of the 9 items we checked in we were charged for 7 of them ($1100). Kevin's guitar ended up being an overage charge ($200), but it was still cheaper than shipping it FedEx or DHL (the only services available in SA). So not too bad.

We headed to our gate, but not before security checks, then a bag search before getting on the bus that took us to the plane.

We flew from Cape Town to Dakar, Senegal. That was an 8 hour flight. Arrived at 3:30am (SA time) and had to go through another security check even though we did not get off. There was a refuel, crew change, restock and security check. Two hours later we were airborne. Then just over 8 hours to JFK in NY. A queue through customs, then we had to reclaim our luggage!!! WHAT? Yea, we were like, "how are we going to do this?" Well there are guys there to help (for a fee). But we claimed our 8 pieces of luggage, then went through a second security check, then loaded our bags back on the conveor belt to be reloaded onto the plane. We had a three hour overlay in NY. We actually met a family that was from South Africa there on vacation! Too funny. They were from Johannesburg, north east of Cape Town. Then we boarded our last flight to Miami.

We caught a good wind because we landed 30 minutes early. Got our luggage and my sister Melinda and Joe and Jescel showed up to help us get everything home. Such a blessing!!!

So we divided everything between their two vehicles and headed home. I have to say that when my sister started driving, I was a little freaked out. She was driving on the wrong side of the road!!! LOLOLOL!!! I didn't realized how accustom I got to the driving rules in South Africa! It looked weird even though I knew it wasn't wrong.

So 31 hours and over $6000 later we're home. Family is glad we're here and in the end, we're glad we're here. We will miss all the kids we worked with, especially our girls. We know that God has a purpose for us and we will follow His lead. If 9 months in South Africa is all He required of us, then that's what we have to have faith in. We committed to 3 years and made the necessary adjustments in the face of the obstacles to fulfill that commitment. The Lord, who knows all, had other plans for us. Maybe He just wanted to see what we were will to do. Maybe there will be political difficulties in the coming months as SA is about to have an election in March. Maybe we'll never know this side of heaven. But we can stand before our Lord and say we did all we could, we were willing to serve out our commitment no matter what, and we continue to say, "here am I, send me."

What's next?

Only God knows.

We'll be living with my parents for the next few months until our renters find another place or April 1st which ever comes first. Luckily they have a spare room that will fit us nicely.

We still don't know if Kevin will get his job back with AT&T. We've been in contact with an organization that works with military kids. Another organization contacted us about working on college campuses, and a church has offered Kevin a position as youth director (it would be bi-vocational).

So God is already providing options, we just have to rely on Him to know which is the right one. We're knocking on the doors and we'll see which one He opens. All we can do is trust in Him, because He is faithful and He is trustworthy. We are blessed by the opportunity to serve our Lord and Savior in South Africa. We're blessed not just for the fruit God blessed us with, but seeing Him change the lives of those who now call Him Lord. We are blessed by the seeds that has been planted and will rejoice in the harvest. That is what we are focusing on because that is the only sure thing and our purpose for us going in the first place. All the rest is laid at the throne of our King and He will sort it out.

So thank you for your encouragement, support, prayers and love. Thank you to those few who took the time to love on us during our time in Mitchells Plain and thanks to all of you who are excited about us being home again. We will keep you informed with the plans God has for us, for we know that are for good and not for harm. They are plans for hope and a future and we know God keeps His promises. So until the next adventure...

Never Miss An Opportunity

2008-12-13T01:42:00.003-05:00

So we sold our car yesterday. Just waiting for the final transfer of the funds and all is complete. But I just wanted to share that despite the circumstances we face (I mean "we" as in any one) God still calls us to share His truth. Kevin rode back with one of the guys from the dealership - apparently they needed some paperwork that Pastor John had left at his house.
The whole trip back - about 25 minutes - Kevin had the opportunity to share the Good News with the gentleman that drove him. Apparently both his mother and sister are saved and have been discussing the Lord with him. Kevin told him that him riding in the car was no coincidence. God was trying to get his attention. So there's never any reason to miss an encounter orchestrated by God. Kevin even commented, "If we weren't going home, we wouldn't have sold the car, I wouldn't have been able to witness to him."
So pray for Cullen. The seeds have been planted, Kevin got the chance to do some watering. Its a lesson for us all - never miss an opportunity!

Countdown

2008-12-07T10:17:00.003-05:00

Sorry it's been a while since I've written. As you can imagine we've been busy packing, cleaning, and trying to take in the sites before we head home. We're almost there as we head into the final days.
Today we headed to the beach. This time ready for the water in swimming suits and all. Katie finally started enjoying herself and the water. She's a strange child. At first she doesn't want to get off the towel because of the sand. Then once she's played a bit and has to wash her hands, she'll reluctantly head for the water. Today she was walking hip deep - which is a miracle in itself! So we're all a bit tanner, really tired and I'm feeling the stress in my stomach once again as we get into the final details of returning home.

Prayer requests? You bet!!!
1) That the sale of our car goes through without a hitch and we get a good price.
2) That we can get everything ready to go without any hiccups
3) That the girls handle the 19+ hour flight back. The good thing is our flight is at night so they should sleep the majority of the trip - but we've got about 7-9 hours they will be awake!
4) Just a general safe, relaxed trip home.
5) That we can attend church Dec 21 - really looking forward to being back "home" and seeing our church family and hearing Pastor Troy preach.
6) Kevin's job. We still don't know if he'll have anything when we get back. Still working on the paperwork with AT&T, but nothing is guaranteed.

Thanks so much for your continued words of encouragement and love. Thank you for every word you've sent our way. We have been blessed beyond measure and we're looking forward to seeing everyone.

Giving Thanks

2008-11-24T02:13:00.007-05:00

Whether you find yourself surrounded by family & friends, or isolated from those you love, we hope that you can give thanks for the blessings in your life. As we ourselves celebrate this time with just the four of us at the table, we are thankful that we have each other. That no matter where we are, no matter what we go through, we are a family and no one can change the blessings that come from that.

While we are heartbroken, the Lord gives us joy through the silliness of our children. We get to converse with them, read to them, and watch them from afar as they play together, dance together, and provide each other with an unconditional friendship.
We are thankful to our Lord and Savior that He saw in us a heart to serve Him - a desire to do His will and not our own. A heart for the lost and sometimes dismissed youth of this world. We are thankful for the time we have had here and thankful to be returning home to people who love us and are cheering for us. The saying is true, a friend in need, is a friend indeed and we ask your forgiveness. We did not realize the scope of your friendship and love for us. We did not realize the faith that you had in God's gift in us. We are thankful that we come home to those who will not look down on us, but will lift us up.
We are thankful for family who sacrificed along side us. It was just as difficult to send us, as it was for us to come. Yet they too encouraged us, told us how proud they are, and have done all to support the work God has placed before us. So for that we are especially thankful, though they are not too upset about us coming home!
We are thankful that we serve a mighty God who knows all and sees all. We are thankful for a Savior that found us worthy enough to send us to serve Him in this place. We are thankful that He has shown Himself and lifted us up when we needed His presence the most.

For as long as I can remember my most favorite poem has been Footprints. The first time I read it as a teen I understood its power, but even more so now. He is always with us, He never leaves us, and when we are trodden and broken, He lifts us up and carries us. Thank you for allowing God to use you, to show His servants that He is carrying us. He has strengthened us through family, friends and strangers. Every where we turn there are those God has placed before us to remind us of His love - His mercies - His provision - and most importantly that we can trust Him even if we don't understand. He has lifted our heads and encouraged our hearts.

So this Thanksgiving we have much to be thankful for and we pray no matter your situation, that you can find the blessings in your life and trust that God is sitting right beside you, and if necessary, He's carrying you in His loving arms.

Seven Months Sounds Like A Good Number

2008-11-21T11:23:00.006-05:00

Isn't 7 the number of completion? Well that's what we did, seven months of ministry (Apr-Nov). And God has blessed. Though we did not see a large number of kids each day, those we were blessed to minister to, the Father gave as our fruit.
We saw about 19 of these youth profess Christ as Lord and Savior. Not by coercion, not by the "say this prayer with me - if you prayed the prayer raise your hand". These are kids who sought the Lord. "Mr. Kevin I want to get saved. Mr Kevin how do I get Jesus?"
We saw lives changed. We saw a 7th grader return to us, after being caught in a lie and sent away, repent, ask forgiveness for the lie. "I'm sorry I lied." He didn't have to return. He could have gone on his way and never looked back. But God is working on him and changing him. Fashioning him into a man of God. Pray for Keenan.
We saw a muslim girl eager to read the Bible verse each time. We saw her eager to memorize God's word. We saw her eager to understand His truths, eagerly taking a Bible home to read. Pray for her.
We saw a young boy always ready to recite his Bible verse. To share the Word of God that he had hidden in his heart. Pray for Yusuf.
We saw a girl cry as she shared the news of her conversion. Her eagerness to learn more. Pray for Nessy.
We saw a young woman, still perhaps struggling to find the truth, but still wanting to know. A young lady whom we were able to trust with the safety and care of our precious children. Pray for Lisa.
We saw a 9th grader, who had been sneaking in, make a decision for Christ and confess her fault. We saw her begin to grow into a woman of faith. Pray for Micole.
We saw 9 children voluntarily come to a Bible study on a Friday afternoon. No games, no rewards. Just a Bible in hand, reading from the Word, understanding God's teaching, asking questions. Pray for Jamie, Keenan, Nessy, Jatavia, Shandre, Xavier, Terrin, and the others.
We saw a boy overjoyed that he found a place to be. A boy who's mother was glad he had somewhere safe to play. Pray for Marshal.
We've met a boy, who despite his struggles, holds on to God. Pray for Justin.
We see the work of God in these lives. We see the fruit of our labor to God's glory, and He will judge us. We have loved our time here and are honored for the chance to meet this kids, to be part of their lives, if only for this short time, and to have them in our lives. They have been a comfort as both they and a couple of parents have come to say thanks and goodbye. We have encouraged them to trust in Him who knows all things. It is not our place to question, but to obey.
So December 17th we will head home with joy to be seeing our family and friends, but with sadness to be leaving these precious ones behind. And they have become precious not to only us but to Him who has used us to draw them closer to Himself.
So we say thank you for your prayers, encouraging words, open arms. We thank you for your support over these months and simply ask that though we return home, we will still need your help. We go home to an empty house, no car, no jobs. We gave up everything to follow Him, as we obeyed, and so we trust in Him to provide what we need as we head home earlier than planned for. No Kevin's job is not guaranteed, the moment he took the leave it was not assured he'd get it back. We came knowing this, but believing he would not go back. But again, we trust in Him who has made this difficult time a blessing. We now truly know how our friends believe in us, know our hearts and our abilities. It was not about the numbers, but the souls. As my brother-in-law said, "Noah built a boat for 120 years to save 8 people, because that's what its about - saving souls."

Going Home

2008-11-20T05:08:00.006-05:00

This is a letter we received today...

Opportunity to Serve Ministries

17 November 2008

Be greeted in the wonderful name of Jesus.
Firstly, on behalf of the above organization, I hereby wish to express our heartfelt thanks to you for your willingness in accepting the challenge, and the giving of your time and substance to come to Mitchells Plain and minister among our community. We are also thankful to hose who have supported this ministry for you to come. I want to assure you that it is very highly appreciated by all concerned. It has been a joy to have you as a part of our Church family.

Then, I need to inform you of a decision taken at our recent board meeting held on Wednesday 11 November 2008. After much prayer, discussion, and deliberations, and also in consultation with some key role player and sponsors in the U.S., it was unanimously decided that we release you from your responsibilities in ministry. So it is my duty to inform you that your ministry at the F.R.O.G. centre will terminate with immediate effect. This action was taken with much regret but with confirmation by our board that this is the best course of action.

We believe that you are not ideally suited, nor properly prepared for this kind of ministry, and although you have been trying, we feel that this decison is in the best interests of your family, the ministry and God's kingdom. The difficulties you have experienced and we have affirmed, as a board, are evidence that this was not a proper match, in ministry neither for you nor for the Church. Cultural, and ministry requirements have been too demanding for the experience you have. We affirm your efforts but also have noticed your struggles. So in fairness to you, we realize the best option for all concerned is to allow you to return to the States and to your job there. We wish to profusely apologize if there has been any inconvenience caused, and trust that God will work out everything for His honour and glory. We certainly believe you are committed and have a heart to serve our Savior.

We realize that it will take some time to make arrangements to get back home, and we are sure that you would want to be back by Christmas; you may stain in the house till that time. We understand that you have taken a year leave and that your postition is still open until February 2009, and felt that this is most definitely the right time, which will also enable you to return to your position in the U.S. We beleive this timetable will allow you to spend Christmas with your extended family and allow you to take advantage of the good exchange rrate for purchasing tickets.

Please accept our heartfelt thanks for all your efforts and the sacrifice your family made in coming to South Africa to be a part of our Church family. Your work for the Lord in the F.R.O.G. Center is appreciated. We hope you leave with good memories and a greater appreciation for the work our Saviour around the world. We commit ourselves to continue to pray for you and covet your prayers on our behalf.

Sincerely His and Yours in Christ,
Signed and Emailed to various churches and persons in the States.

So we're coming home. Why? Only God knows. But we can stand before the Lord knowing we did the best we could. See you soon...

Get Your Copy!

2008-11-18T03:08:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone - we'll be sending out a newsletter at the beginning of December with a review of our first year here in South Africa. Want one? Email your address to logans.africa@gmail.com and I'll make sure you get one! Thanks!

Guy Fawkes Day

2008-11-05T15:04:00.007-05:00

Hello All,
Well its been a while I know. Things have been really strange here. I guess everyone's got summer on the brain and its been a bit quieter. We even have less kids showing up. But believe it or not, we still have new kids showing up. So new kids to share Christ with, YEAH!
Anyway I thought I'd share an interesting holiday here in South Africa - Guy Fawkes Day. But let me start from the beginning.
Emily LOVES getting the Barbie Magazine. And so each month her daddy is happy to indulge. I of course, enjoy reading it with her. Don't worry, we each get several turns to read her each and every story. But I digress. So in each magazine is a calender and I noticed "Guy Fawkes Day". Lisa and Nessy (the girls that live next door) were here and so I asked them. Their reaction was not good. Though they could not tell me what the day was about, they did tell us it was a dangerous day. Apparently kids throw eggs, and paint and other things at one another. Even some dangerous items like blades. Its also a big day for fireworks. And though its illegal to discharge fireworks on the street - we non-the-less are hearing it right outside our door.
Anyway here's the story behind this ominous day. Guy Fawkes was a conspirator along with 13 or so other men during the 1600s in the United Kingdom. Their plan, the Gunpowder Plot, was to blow up the British Parliament with Lords and King inside. They apparently rented out the basement of the parliament building under the guise of storage for a store. Hidden behind stacks of cigarettes and a few other items were 36 barrels of gunpowder. On November 5th, Guy Fawkes would ignite the powder killing the King (James I) and those in the House of Parliament. However, one of the conspirators, for what ever reason, warned one of the Lords of the plan.
After a search of the basement (the second search) the powder was discovered. But in their wisdom, the left everything as it was, so that the traitors would believe that their secret remained. However, just as Guy Fawkes was about to light the powder, the torch was snatched from his hand. He and the rest were eventually arrested. Their sentence – hung, drawn and quartered.
Now I must interject the reasoning behind this plot. Under James I, being Catholic was illegal. If they wished to hold Mass and the like, they did it in secret. Thus this was a protest of the Monarchy imposing on their religion (isn't nice that we are free to worship as we see fit - no more government impositions on what we believe)?
So each November 5th, the UK and some of the Commonwealths (not sure if SA still is, but it was) celebrate the capture of the conspirators and the salvation of their King. It is also known as Bonfire Night. The tradition is a fireworks display (a remembrance of the gunpowder) and also a begging of money by children (for the purchase of fireworks - though I think this is no longer encouraged).
But as I mentioned earlier, it has ominous overtones (at least here) and so most children didn't go to school today. As a matter of fact, one of the high schools was closed for the day. It was an eerily quiet day. Usually as we drive to the Center in the afternoon there is a throng of activities with both adults and children rustling about. But it was very quiet, and the streets almost empty. We did have a few fireworks go off here near the house. It struck me kind of funny that there was more activity on this day then on their version of Independence Day. Not a peep was heard and it almost seemed as there was no holiday. But tonight there is more going on. I even watched a Brigham version of fireworks outside the window, just a few blocks away.
There are several movies that have made reference to this infamous man - V for Vendetta is one - a mask worn by one of the characters is apparently in the likeness of Fawkes.
So that's it. Hope you enjoyed the history lesson.
Here's a good website on the hoiday.

99 Days of Blessing

2008-10-30T04:03:00.001-04:00

Check out this link for the most beautiful story.
99 Balloons

Thank You

2008-10-19T13:03:00.009-04:00

This is looonnnggg overdue, but we wanted to have pictures to go along with it. Several months ago we made it know that we needed funds to do some things around the Frog Center and you graciously gave. We wanted you to see a few of the things we have been able to get...
1. Heaters for the daycare. We got two - one for each room and yes, they were put to use especially during naptime.
2. Changing table so Laura doesn't have to bend over on the floor to change the several diapers a day.
3. Bibles for those who have made a profession for Christ or just wanted one. The store gave us a 14% discount - basically tax free. We were able to purchase about 25 Bibles for about $100.
4. We will use a portion to pay for our initial cost now that we're running the AWANA program. If they ever send us a bill!
5. Odds & ends, like a net and balls for the ping-pong table, materials for our new Craft Day, and other things like balloons, sweets, and the like.

Balloon Fun at AWANA Froggies

We do have some left over, and we'll definitely use it for our summer program or the high school group in Feb. We've already got things in the works and ask that you pray that God provides the help and resources we need. Things so far are looking great and I think it will be a blessing to those who attend AND serve. Just keep the whole process in prayer. As it gets closer we'll provide more info - of course.

We also wanted to say a BIG THANKS to those of you who sent goodies along with Bob & Floreina Knapp when they came in September. The chocolate chips and mints should last us the next two years (hopefully!). The girls couldn't wait to dig into the Pop Tarts and didn't let us forget them for breakfast the next morning. It was a real blessing to not just receive these items but to know you thought of us enough to send them. We are truly blessed!

Serving as Senders...

2008-10-16T04:09:00.011-04:00

In my study for our Bible Study I came across this great commentary/writing about the importance of those who send out missionaries to the field to serve our Lord and Savior. Just a portion for you to digest. If you want to read the whole thing (its a 12 "chapter" series) here's the link Serving as Sender
Here's some excerpts:
Under the Chapter Six: Communication Support, this paragraph hit home for me...

One family recently returned to Israel, this time with two children. The wife recalls, "The first two weeks I was filled with guilt for doing this to my children. I had taken them away from the grandparents who cherish them and whom they adore. I had taken them away from Sesame Street, a wonderful library, swimming lessons and food they love. I had taken them away from carpeted floors to fall on, trashless parks with grass instead of broken glass, cool weather, Sunday school—from friends, drinkable water that doesn’t make them sick, a familiar doctor I can trust, a car instead of a bus or having to walk in the blazing sun and a mommy with lots of energy, patience and joy!

While some of our new life does not include such dramatic changes - our water is fine and we have a car - the sentiment is the same. There's guilt that you've taken your kids from playgrounds, friends, ChuckECheese, swimming pools and a safe place to walk (even at night). (Emily will still ask if we can go to ChuckECheese once in a while). There is that initial "guilt" and one wonders why God even bothered to give you children when it would be easier to transition and serve without worrying about your kids (I don't mean I wish I never had kids, I am always thankful that the Lord didn't allow me to miss on such an amazing blessing). But the guilt is there and sometimes still rears its head. But I have been blessed to know many who have been raised on the mission field and know that they will be fine.

Something else I'd like to add to the Communication Support - we often wonder if anyone's even reading any of this. So even if you have no comment on the actual post - just say hi or something. It makes us feel like you remember us. That though life goes on without the Logans just around the corner, we're still a part of your lives and you think of us sometimes! And thanks to those who have come from Heredes' site to say hi. Means a ton!!!

Here's another excerpt from Chapter One: The Need for Senders.

A Biblical Foundation
If anybody knew about going on missionary journeys and needing a support team, it was the Apostle Paul. He said, "...and how can they [go] preach except they are sent?" In Romans chapter ten, he established the vitality of cross-cultural outreach on these two levels of involvement: Those who go and those who serve as senders.

Paul first quoted Joel: "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." Then, in clear linear logic so well understood by the Roman mind, he appealed: "How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?"

Today’s estimate is that 2.5 billion people have not had a culturally relevant presentation of the Gospel.

"And how shall they hear without a preacher?" Yes, there must be a "preacher"—the missionary, the cross-cultural worker, the one who goes. By whatever name and by whatever means he gets there, there must be a proclaimer of the Good News. God chose it to be this way. (Throughout our study, well be referring to your missionary with a generic "he"—though at all times we mean he, she or they!)

Today’s estimate is that there are worldwide 285,250 career foreign missionaries and 180,000 short term missionaries.

But wait. There is one more question in this series: "And how shall they preach except they are sent?" (Romans 10:13-15). Paul acknowledged that there are others besides those who go who must be involved in this worldwide evangelization endeavor: those who are serving as senders.

Those who go and those who serve as senders are like two units on the same cross-cultural outreach team. Both are equally important. Both are vitally involved in the fulfillment of the Great Commission. Both are dynamically integrated and moving toward the same goal. And both are assured success, for those in God’s work are on the winning team!

There is a tremendous need for senders. And the need goes far beyond the traditional token involvement of showing up for a farewell party or writing out a check to missions. A cross-cultural worker needs the support of a team of people while he is preparing to go, while he is on the field and when he returns home.

A careful reading of Paul’s missionary letters will reveal how much time he spent talking to his support team (blogs are great!)—those who were involved with him in the ministry. Sometimes he complimented them, sometimes he expressed his loneliness in being away from them, sometimes he exhorted and challenged them. But he always thanked God for them.

Emphasis are mine! I think its a good insight into the mind of a missionary and how we so rely on you as the sender. Whether you support us (and all that it encompasses), other missionaries or organizations I think its important for you, as a sender, to understand how important a part you really do play in the work that is accomplished by the one sent, as well as our mental, spiritual, and acclamation to the "normal" world once we return. Yes being on the mission field is a blessing, but it can also get lonely. Remember we have left family, long-time friends and the known things of "our world" to live and work among a different culture where words don't have the same meaning, and just the simple things of life can be very different.
While we personally have been blessed to be in a very modernized country with people who we have come to love, we know so many other missionaries can spend months isolated from any other "normal".
So take a look, its not too long of a read and as quoted by a SpongeBob character, "arm yourself with knowledge!"

The Same But Different

2008-10-11T13:41:00.005-04:00

I've been thinking a bit about living here in South Africa. I know many of you probably have an image in your mind and I'm almost certain its wrong. So I thought I'd share some of what living here is like - a more general, everyday image.
As the title notes - its the same but different.
Like what?
I guess I should start with where we live. We live in a concrete house on a normal street with other houses. We hear cars and dogs and people - just like any other neighborhood. We have a car in the garage and a backyard (that we're working on thanks to a generous gift). We have electricity, satellite tv, dsl and running water. Just like home - only different. We have a small box that we pre-load with electricity. Kevin goes into one of the shops (stores) and buys R200 of electricity which gives us about 250W; DSL - we're limited to a set amount of data transfer a month (3G); most of the stations on the satellite are BBC.
How about the grocery store. Its the same. There are isles that you walk up and down pushing your trolley (cart). You throw things in as needed. But there's different items, some "American" products, but for the most part its different. The choices are different, the names are different. The one most outstanding difference is the eggs. They are wrapped, so no checking them to make sure none are broken (which thus far none have been) and they're not refrigerated. They're just stacked up on racks waiting for you to grab either 6-18-24 or 30 pack. Its also not too uncommon to find feathers still hanging on. Another noticeable difference is you can get almost anything as a refill - even milk. So instead of buying a new carton of milk, you buy a bag. Unlike home where the cashier weighs your veggies and fruit, here you get it weighed in the produce section and they label it with the price.
Since I'm on the topic of food, we're finding some home favorites but discovering they just have different names like cheetos are called nik-naks.
How about the mail. Well we get mail - not as much as we got at home, but we do get it. Our first piece of mail was actually a bill for our Homeowners' Association. Yep, they get us even half way around the world! But the mail only comes Mon-Fri. The mail-lady rides a bike with a big bag. No uniform. If we get something bigger than a letter we get a notice from the post office to pick it up - no leaving it on the door step. If the package is from overseas - we pay an import tax on the package - this depends of the size of the box. For regular care packages we pay R25. When I got the home school material we had to pay R250. It takes approximately 12 days to get a letter or package from the States.
Next there's the driving. Besides the obvious driving on the right side of the car on the left side of the street there are other differences. Passing a car for instance. Here the fast lane is the right lane (we pass on the left in the States). Also, if you're on a two lane road, its common courtesy to drive in the emergency lane to allow the faster car behind you to pass. In doing so, you will receive a hazard-light flash as a thank you. Not the wave of the hand as we're accustom to. Also, if I heard correct - cars and not pedestrians have the right of way - so no slow strolls across the street as we so often see (I hate this - you see a car coming - at least attempt to walk a bit faster!!!) Yes, we've become somewhat use to the driving. Intersections can be a little nerve racking, but God protects even when we don't get it right.
Schools - now, from what I can gather the schools system works differently per district. So how they do school here in MP, may not be how they do school in other areas of the Western Cape or the rest of the country. All students start school at 8am. Then grades 1-3 are done at 12:30, grades 4-7 are done at 2:20 and high school at 2:40 (give or take 5 min). Because of the predominance of Islam in the area - all students get out of school at 12:30 on Fridays, as this is the Muslim holy day (like Sunday for Christians). Three weeks before the end of each semester the students are engaged in National testing, and so they are done with school at 1pm. Then the last week before the end of the semester, is make-up week. This means that any student who missed the testing the previous 2 weeks can come to school to take a test. So what does the rest of the student body do? Either stay home (about 50% go for this option), or hang out at school while the teachers grade and prepare for the end of the semester.
So we're getting use to life here. Its the same, just different and we're getting accustom to the differences. I think one area that we're still working on is the terminology. Like "naughty" means that a person is really bad, and rude has a stronger meaning to it then in the States. We find often that someone will say something to us and we have the wrong reaction to the word. So we're still learning how to properly communicate in a different culture.
As always if there's anything you want to know about what we're doing here, please feel free to ask. We have passed our first 6 months, and as I said, we're getting more accustom. I didn't think it would take so long, but maybe just the stress of learning on the fly makes it more difficult. But we love working with the kids. Please pray for us as we prepare to begin new programs like a two-week summer program and high school group. We've also begun a Bible study and next week will be our first Craft Day. I stress over whether the kids will enjoy themselves. It so important for us for the kids to have fun and want to be at the Center. Its our chance to reach out to them, care for them and most importantly tell them about our Lord & Savior! So you're prayers are both welcomed and appreciated.
God bless....

Island Outriggers

2008-10-01T11:11:00.003-04:00

Well, its Wednesday and the team is here running the VBS program. They've been real troopers, considering most are from warm Miami and its cold here. The Lord has blessed and the weather has actually been blue skies and warmer days. Though a cold front is forecast for the rest of the week.
They came in on Friday early evening and have been preparing and working. They've gotten to do a bit of sightseeing over the weekend, and more is planned for the coming weekend. I've had the pleasure of helping to prepare their lunches - I'm learning a lot from Evelyn and the other ladies. Cooking for such large numbers is a challenge. Sometimes you make just enough - sometimes it's way too much. But as expected, its always d'lish! Kevin's been running errands and transporting this and that, and he and she. Unfortunately the girls have been quite sick the last two days so Kev when yesterday & I went today.
We enjoyed visiting with some of the team yesterday in Fishoek. It was great talking with fellow citizens and sharing our experiences. It really is amazing how much we've learned and become accustom to in just 6 months. It was also refreshing to hear their gasps when we shared info about some of the stranger things here like the TV licenses. So we aren't alone in our thinking :)
Here are a few pictures we've taken so far.

Week in Review

2008-09-22T01:18:00.003-04:00

Hello my friends,
I thought I'd just give you a quick update as to the wonders of God. It was a really strange, yet exciting week. Due to testing (this is a quarterly mandate) getting to the schools this week was a hit-and-miss. Kevin was only able to get to 2 of the 4, but this allowed him to get a few other things done. He also said the classes were much smaller. He spoke with one of the teachers. The testing is for two weeks roughly (some just a week and a half), then the week before their break they do nothing. Its primarily just to allow those who missed part of the testing to make it up. Some of the kids that we spoke to won't even be going to school this week simply because there will be no teaching going on. So unlike the States where you'll have most kids out the Friday before a holiday break - here its a whole week!
But the program at the Center hit all time records. We had 40 4th & 5th graders (our highest for that grade) and 64+ on Wednesday!!! If you disregard Wed, since that's the "all-grades" day, we had over 70 kids at the Center this week. Thursday was our lowest - the 6th & 7th graders (they're always our smallest group), but that day was really cold and rainy and most of them didn't go to school in the first place.
But we had a lot of new kids come this week, a few challenges, and overall God blessed. We continue to be amazed at how we are seeing His hand in our work. From those who are getting saved, to seeing our numbers increase (which means more kids to share Christ with), to providing encouragement from His Word and children, to seeing the fruit of our labor in general. We are only successful because He is faithful. We are only blessed because He is gracious. We pray that He will continue to allow us to reap the harvest as well as sow the seed. We know that many of these children may not call Him Lord & Savior for many years to come - but we know that He has called us to share His love and forgiveness - we know that the harvest is His - we are merely the workers. We sow, we reap but He provides the seed and the growth.
A quick mention, the Miami Team (as we called them) are coming on FRIDAY!!! I'm looking forward to seeing many familiar faces and friends. Pray for a safe trip and a blessed week as they host VBS.
Blessings to you all, and have a wonderful week.

Don't forget to check out Life with the Logans for more personal happenings.

Hannah Montana in Concert

2008-09-14T12:02:00.015-04:00

So what does Hannah Montana have to do with anything? Not too much but just as every tween in the US is into this Disney rock star so is every tween in South Africa. So to award our band of helpers we held a "Best Of Both Worlds Concert Party". Pizza, soda, and the much anticipated concert! We turned up the music, ate, drank and enjoyed a little butty shaking courtesy of Katie.

It was a fun night and the girls enjoyed it. Lisa (who's 15) enjoyed the guest appearance by the Jonas brothers more. But that's understandable.

So just wanted to share that the Lord is good, and Hannah Montana allowed us to show these kids that we appreciate their dedication and help.
Have a great week.

Welcome

2008-09-10T12:50:00.005-04:00

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I would like to introduce Yusuf as our new brother in Christ. Please pray for him and his new Bible. He has a tender heart and always knows his Bible verse, so today was very special for me. I would like to ask for prayer as we are battered but not broken, crushed but not destroyed. I don't blog much but I would like to give some incite into my heart as to what I and my family are going thru. One of the first things that you encounter on the field is loneliness and isolation, its not that there aren't other believers around it's just not the ones you did life with. And no one has an encouraging word. All is new and strange and at times you second guess the Lord, yourself, your abilities, even other believers. There are so many times you want to just give up and go home. We remember our old house and the comfortable 8 to 5 job I had, with the nice cars and our loving church and friends and family just down the road. But than there's Yusuf!!! On one of my most discouraging days since I've been here. I didn't even preach or teach a lesson I just prayed with them after an hour or so of playing games and was looking forward to leaving the center. God's word says that the Lord looks at the heart (I SAM 16:7) and He knew I needed a Yusuf. I'm glad the Lord gave us a burden for children of S.A. But this burden seems at times to be so heavy.

Please pray for our family as this is a very heavy burden to carry but not that our burdens become lighter, but that the Lord strengthens our backs so that we can carry more.

God bless:
In His service Kevin

Five More For The Kingdom

2008-09-04T17:12:00.005-04:00

It's been a very hard week. We've all been battling a nasty cold. Kevin started it and so far Emily's the only hold out. Kevin only went to the school on Monday. Tuesday I was sick in bed & he wasn't so well Wednes & today. But we were still able to do the AWANA program in the afternoon.

He did Tuesday, I did Wednesday & he did today. We weren't 100% but each had enough strength to make it through. We just explained to the kids the situation and they were very understanding and exceptionally well behaved, making it a much easier time. And despite our illness and fatigue, and the desire to just stay in bed, God blessed.

On Wednesday I just played games with the kids and then took the time to pray before I dismissed as we always do. A few raised their hands for prayer for parents and such. But one girl, Majadah (one of our helpers) raised her hand, but didn't want to say what for. I told her, no problem, God knows what you need and I prayed.

Today (Thursday) Kevin went, and I stayed home. He too just wanted to stay home and had a difficult time getting though the day. The great thing is that Thursdays are the 6 & 7 graders and their more disciplined. We usually just fool around - double dutch, basketball, ping pong - instead of the organized games. We of course still do the Bible time. He had a small group by the end - just 5.

As Kevin discussed the topic - All have sinned - he explained to them the gift of salvation - that its something they must choose for themselves. God doesn't force us to love Him or accept what Christ did on the cross, we must each decide for ourselves if we will accept, or reject this gift. As he does at the end of each day Kevin told the kids if they wanted to get saved, if they wanted to accept the gift, he would talk to them once they were done. First one girl, Majadah, raised her hand. Was this her unspoken prayer request just the day before?

Then Nessy, then Kyle, then Keanan raised their hands. The only one left was Nicole. This was her third or fourth time coming to the Center. She said no.

Kevin told her that was fine. She was still welcomed to come each Thursday, no one would be mad, etc. (We like to assure the kids that we aren't there to ostracize them if they're not Christians. That of course we want them to know God, but that's something between them and Him, and we are not here to force them into any decision - it must be their own choice, and there is no penalty for not making that choice. We just encourage them to come back for we know the word of the Lord does not return void.) So Kevin just finished the lesson, did the routine dismissal prayer and then told Nicole she could leave if she'd like while he spoke to the other four. No, she said, I want to get saved.

So despite our illness, fatigue and fleshly desire to lay in bed, our heavenly Father blessed us with leading 5 more into His Kingdom. Five more children of God. He has been so gracious to us and we are in total awe of His love.

The best part (or should I say bonus) is that Nessy is our neighbor and one of the girls we've been asking you to specifically pray for. I cried when she tried to tell me, crying herself. Please continue to pray for our kids (as we call them) and of course all the others we are privileged to minister to.

We have just discussed tonight starting a Bible study for those who have made this amazing decision to follow Christ. We figure they need to grow and not just remain in the infancy of the faith. We're off this Saturday to the mall to purchase some Bibles for our new baby brothers and baby sisters in Christ so that they may learn to know Him, and understand His plan for their lives.

We are both so excited and amazed and just wanted to share this special event with you. I would have been joyous over just one saved, but God in His abundance has blessed us with seeing 13 in just one month call Him Lord and Savior!

It's Spring

2008-09-01T13:02:00.006-04:00

It's suppose to be. Today is the official first day of spring here in SA and its colder than ever with two more cold fronts coming through. We are very much looking forward to the warmer weather. We are also very much looking forward to the Miami Team coming for their annual VBS Missions trip. This is the group that we originally came with in 2002 and 2003. Much of the same people have continued to come, and we're looking forward to their visit.
I also though I'd share just a bit of what's been happening here with us these last few weeks.
We celebrated Emily's 4th birthday with a full weekend of activities. After their annual physical both girls are well with Emily having a minor case of anemia. She was a real brave girl as they drew blood for the test. They used a topical numbing cream and she didn't even realize they were sticking her with a needle. She just laid there talking to me about ice-cream. Though I was instructed that we couldn't go home for ice-cream because, "Mommy, we have to wait until the Doctor is done." She'll be on an iron regiment for the month and then get retested. The doctor says its minor, but it needs to be corrected, of course. It's not like she eats anything other than peanut butter and jelly and chicken with french fries! She amazingly just started eating broccoli and cauliflower! Its very difficult to get her to eat and try new things - picky like her dad!
Kevin is still working in the schools and we continue to run the AWANA program at the Center with much success. Its totally normal to play the same game 3 or 4 times, by request. We're still working on the Bible Study time, trying to make it both interesting and poignant. Today we did a little karate cheer to help the kids remember the verse so we'll see what happens next week. We might run out of candy!
We are beginning to work on the summer program, we figure we've got four weeks total to plan for. Pray that not only is it a successful summer, but we can provide a fun program, that will also minister to the youth. If you have any ideas, resources, or suggestions - it is greatly, greatly appreciated. We've never done this before and I know some of you have, so share, by all means, send in your suggestions. :)
Ramadan started today and some of our kids are fasting (during the daylight hours) in observance. The grocery store is full of the traditional foods (like two barrels full of dates - a traditional snack to break the fast each evening.) I'm secretly hoping that grocery shopping for the next few weeks will be easier since those observing the holiday will be eating less. I'm also interested in the cuisine side of the holiday. I love Middle Eastern food and am curious to try a few of the dishes.

Not too much more to report. Just learning how to do ministry. We have always appreciated those of you who could manage, organize, and plan ministry events. Now we truly appreciate it. We of course are under much different circumstances in that we have no funds (most of what we've been doing has been coming out of our own pockets) and limited resources. But we know God is faithful and we'll get it done. He has blessed us thus far and we are confident that He will continue to do so. We have made a contact that may help us procure funds for the Center via corporate or government sponsorship. Pray that we are successful. It will open the doors for us to do so very much more.
I also wanted to say Happy Labor Day. I pray you're having a nice day off from all your work.

Until next time...

Reaping the Harvest

2008-08-15T11:40:00.003-04:00

John 4:36-38 Even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. Thus the saying ‘One sows and another reaps’ is true. I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor.”

We are definitely reaping what we did not sow, but we can rejoice with those who have labored before us – Todd, VBS team and others who have ministered to the children of this area. In the last two weeks we have seen seven children accept Christ as their Lord and Savior. Not by coercion, but by the heart’s desire.

The first were four boys. On Thursday we work with grades 6 & 7. On this day only nine kids showed up, five being the group of helpers – so they’ve heard the message all week. All that remained at the end of our time together were the four boys. Kevin decided he would do the lesson with them and he was blessed. He told them about their need for Christ, that He is the only way to be forgiven of their sins. Romans 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Christ made the payment required by the Father for repentance. As Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This forgiveness is a gift. It is something we must choose to accept; it’s not something that God forces upon us. We must make the choice if we will accept it or reject it.

Kevin asked if they would like to accept this gift, salvation through Christ. He told them they could go home and think about it, but they were insistent that they wanted it now! And so they prayed, by confessing with their mouths, Jesus is Lord, and believing in their hearts that God raised him [Christ] from the dead, they ARE saved (Romans 10:9). "For it is with you heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved." Just as Isaiah 52:7 promises, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

Then on Wednesday, three girls accepted Christ! The Lord is giving Kevin the privilege of reaping the harvest in abundance. They sought Kevin out at the end of the lesson once all the other kids had left. They stayed behind to talk to him and after questioning to make sure they understood what they were doing, they too prayed to accept Christ into their hearts and lives! The next day they eagerly sought out the Bibles we had purchased just that weekend. And so in one week, we were privileged to see seven children make a decision from death to life, from despair to joy. We ask that you pray for their growth and that the seed was planted of fertile soil. That the temptations of this world, pressures from friends and family, and troubles of this life will only strengthen their faith and not see it die away. Their salvation is assured, we pray that their lives will reflect His love and joy for the remainder of their days and they will be effective witnesses to their community and families of His power, mercies, and love.

With that said we also ask you to pray for our little group of helpers – Lisa, Nessy, Belques, Jetavia, Dameon, Marissa and Majaday. They are all engaged in reading books we have provided, More than a Carpenter, I Dared to Call Him Father (a biography of Belques Sherim – a Muslim converted to the good works of Christ despite the obvious troubles it would bring – even death). The Lord continues to bless and make our humble work effective for Himself. Just yesterday we found out that one of the girl’s mother is also reading the book! So God’s love expands beyond our ministry to the youth.

God is so good to us. We, especially Kevin, have felt so discouraged and ineffective and then I read in 1 Corinthians 15:58, “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”

And so in our discouragement, the Lord has encouraged and blessed us by bringing these children to be His own and allowing Kevin to reap the harvest! God be praised!!!

WE'RE ONLINE!!!!

2008-08-15T04:33:00.003-04:00

Yes, that's right we finally got the DSL working!!!!
Two more techs showed up this morning at 9am. A hour and 15 minutes later they got it up and running and I'm typing this blog from the couch!!!!!!!!
We danced and jumped for joy. Who knew we'd be so excited about getting connected to the internet. Personally I'm happiest cause now I can make calls, especially to my lovely sister whom I usually speak to almost everyday, and haven't spoken to her in weeks! So I must patiently wait for everyone to wake up (it's 10:30am here, so 4:30am there).
But those of you who have our 786 number feel free to call. Just remember the time difference so no calls after 4pm (that's 10pm here). If you don't have the number, and want the number, send me an email and I'll send it.

DSL Update

2008-08-14T08:49:00.002-04:00

Okay here's the update. On Sunday we got a call from the tech that he came by on Sunday morn at 9am. Well we were at church! Said he'd come Monday morn. No show.
Then he supposibly came at 1:42pm and 3:14 yesterday (Wed). We were home until 2pm. And of course we were at the Center at 3:15.
So this morning at 11am the tech showed up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
But, the problem (as we knew but no one would beleive us) was not in the router, but in their central office. So the tech sent in an order to fix everything. When we left this afternoon it still wasn't working. Tech said he'd come by tomorrow morning to see if it was working. Tomorrow (Friday) will be two weeks :P
Anyone need lotto numbers! :O
Will keep you informed!

Oh, Mom, very proud!! Great way to start the year. Love ya lots and wish I was there to help.

DSL Africa

2008-08-07T09:25:00.002-04:00

Okay, as many of you know we've been waiting and waiting to get DSL at the house. Not only will this allow us to use the internet at home, but also use VOIP to call home more often. Last Friday we received our modem! YEA!!! But as you can guess, we are still not connected. Here's the story...
Got the modem on Friday - but we didn't have an account. We assumed we got the modem for free from Telkom which meant we had an account with them. WRONG. Some how or another we got the modem, but we still had to order the service. Thing is we could use a number of providers, not just telkom (should have chose another). But as it was late Friday afternoon, this meant waiting until Monday to get an account.
Much to our surprise I received a text message from Pastor with a user name and password - WOO-HOO!!! Kevin was out, so I logged into modem, input the info - NOTHING! The DSL light was lit on the modem, which means we should be able to surf. Nope, nothing.
On the paper work it said 24hour tech support. (Yea, 24 hour mon-fri 8am-6pm). Anyway, we waited till Monday. Well, found out we have to have our UN and PWD "verified" in order to activate the account. So we called the number (after talking to tech support after a 40 minute wait). After another 50 minutes on hold the tech picked up - but we got so excited we accidentally hung up!!!!!!!!! So after another 40 minutes of waiting we got the department that only needed to verify our account and then we'd be surfing away! But alas, it would not be so.
As Kevin talked with the woman who only had to verify our info to activate our account, the DSL light went out. "That should not have happened", was the tech's reply. "Well it did!", Kevin replied. "Let me put you on hold a minute." And then the ever dreaded sound - she hung up - she did not put him on hold!!!!
That was Monday morn. After the Frog program we came home and called again. Sat on hold for 40 so minutes (though the prompt says 10 minutes) and got a tech. Told him what happened - "I'll give you an escalation number" and gave Kevin the number. This is suppose to push our problem to the top of the list.
Tuesday afternoon we called, we figure squeaky wheel gets the oil, right?! No luck.
Wednesday morn we called. The tech answered almost right away (so now we know morning time is the best time) and she tried to reset the modem a few times before saying "I'll give you an escalation number." I told her we already had a number so she said she'd update the info. What does that mean? I asked if she knew when someone would call? No, you can call this number (the number we've been calling all week) and they would tell me. So as soon as I hung up with her I called the number, listened to the options and selected the option that said something about finding out the process of your fault (problem). Only when the tech answered he had no idea what an escalation number was or what I was talking about and transferred me - to the same option we had been on before!!! How do I know? The music. I hope I never hear that music again!!
So here it is Thursday afternoon and yep, no DSL. For those of you familiar with the movie Money Pit, we're thinking two weeks! (that is covered in sarcasm!)
So that's where it stands as of now. Please pray this is resolved soon, I'm more interested in being able to call family and friends then the internet and its frustrating!

Other than this all is well. I'll update more later, but just thought I'd share the comedy of trying to get DSL in Africa!

Jumping Rope

2008-07-28T07:19:00.003-04:00

It’s amazing how God will allow a simple thing like a jump rope to build relationships. We have been blessed with some wonderful teens who give of their time to help us out at the Frog Center. One of the activities they’ve been most consistent at is jumping rope. And the one thing they’ve been working at is double dutch. They’ve tried and tried and have not been too successful, but not from lack of trying.
As I glanced through the paper on Tuesday I found an article about the 2008 World Rope Jumping Championships and it was being hosted right here in Cape Town! Yep, there is a world championship for jump roping - double dutch, and pair single jumping. (If you’ve ever seen the Disney TV movie JUMP IN, you get the idea). There were several countries represented - the USA, the UK, Korea, Japan, Australia, Sweden, Belgium, Germany, Canada, South Africa (of course) and a few others.
So I thought, hey I’ll take the girls! So the next day I asked if they would be interested, of course they were. So Thursday I looked up the schedule for the event and then went around meeting the parents of the 5 girls I would be taking. A little nerve racking in that I am a bit of a shy person and to boldly go into a stranger’s home and say, “hey I’m taking your kid” was not too comfortable. I had prayed just the night before that I would indeed follow through with this outing and God blessed.
So Saturday morning I ventured out early in the morning with four of the girls (one had a family obligation and was unable to go). Now I must inform you that this was the first time I had driven such a long distance. Kevin is usually the driver and I’m the map-girl. So no getting lost. But this morning I had to do both. I studied the way a few times and got there with no problems. Getting home proved to be a different matter. I got turned around a few times, but was able to figure it all out and we got home.
I won’t bog you down with too much of the details but I will say it was a really cool thing to watch. It was the junior’s freestyle event and they were awesome. They did flips into the revolving ropes, threw each other around, did a leap frog over one of the turners into the revolving ropes, went over and under each other all while jumping. It was really, really cool.
As with any event it gets you wanting to try. So during one of the intermissions I told the girls we’d look to see if they were selling ropes. We have some at the Center but they’re too short. Of course they were so…
After the event the girls were like “Can we try them out?!” How could I say no, even though we were running late. I had told the parents they’d be home before 1pm and it was already after 12:30pm. So we stepped into the little center and started twirling the ropes. The two girls who have been best at it, Nessy & Belquees, attempted to jump in with no success. Then suddenly this man eating an apple appeared. He handed me his half eaten apple and then grabbed the ropes. I had a feeling, and was right, he was one of the coaches for the Belgium team. He then proceeded to teach the girls how to twirl the rope, how to jump into the ropes and even did a little jumping himself. It was great! The blessing was that we had discussed “if we only knew the best way to get into the ropes,” and God provided that info through this generous man. We never got his name, but he made the day for these girls. They were so excited that they practiced another two hours after we got home (Nessy lives right next store to us, and Jatavia lives at the end of the block).
This afternoon (Sunday) after we got home from some necessary shopping, Kevin and I were working on the doors – trying to get rid of the drafts – when I heard the sound of the ropes hitting the ground. I peeked around and there they were. Nessy was teaching her cousin, Lisa, what the man had taught her. So I went out to twirl the ropes so she could jump. In just a day she got really proficient at getting in and jumping. We spent about an hour jumping rope. I tried with not too much success. I could jump once and that was it. But you’ll never guess who did really well! KEVIN!! He managed about 4 jumps before messing up. He just tried a few times but I was impressed. Now I really have to practice!
Below you’ll find video from our little venture. Belquees (in blue) and Nessy (in black) got a lesson of a lifetime. And I hope that as the years go on, they’ll remember the day they learned to double dutch and the generosity of a stranger from Belgium!

Happy Fourth!!!

2008-07-04T05:12:00.002-04:00

Just wanted to say Happy Fourth of July to everyone. While you're enjoying your bbq and fireworks (if its not raining) we're missing it terribly. Very cold and very rainy today in South Africa. So take a big bite of that juicy burger for us.
We were here for Freedom Day. It celebrates the end of Apartheid and it was a disappointment. There were no big parties, get togethers, it just sort of passed everyone by. I'm so glad that we take the time to celebrate being American, being free, and that its a day to be with family and friends. To get together to enjoy good food (what else!), a light show, but just to celebrate the one thing we have in common, being American whether born or naturalized (congrats Jescel).
One of the ladies here at the creshe asked me to make her American food. I thought, "What is American food?" I mean we are so influenced by the many cultures that make up our country, is there any authentic American food? I know apple pie and burgers but are there any specialty dishes that are uniquely American? It just reminds you that as Americans, as in Christ, we are a rainbow of people - different colors, different cultural rites, different foods - but ultimately we share the same thing - Freedom in Christ as well as freedom in the greatest country in the world.
I mean lets face it, if America is so bad, why do people die trying to get to the US. Why do so many leave behind wife, child, parent to try to make a decent living in the US. Despite what the world may say, despite what our own media may say, I don't see anyone trying to get out as desperately as they try to get in! I personally believe two things: 1) if you don't like the US, leave! There's a country that will fit your beliefs whether that's socialist, communist or any other government/health system. 2) they're just jealous.
I love being an American, I love the fact that I have all opportunities opened before me and if I am willing to take hold of those opportunities I can succeed. I can openly profess my Savior without worry of persecution (the violent kind), and I can live my life accordingly without fear or hindrance.
I knew actually living in another country would open my eyes, not that I think I was totally blind to the blessings I have being an American. But as I live in a country still trying to find it's way after so many years of oppression I have come to understand just the basic organization of how our country works. How everything has a place, everyone has a set of rules and for the most part they are followed. The government of South Africa is still in its infant stages, going through some major growing pains. I think Mandela did an amazing job, but his brilliance has not been passed on. Unfortunately you have a president, a ruling party, who are in power by default. The next race is yet to begin and the second in command is already being called the new president. As one article written said, they are throwing their votes away. Instead of voting for the best person to run the country, to fix the many problems like huge taxes, large interest rates, increasing poverty and surging crime, they are voting for the Mandela party. There are about 4 major political parties here, the ANC (Mandala's party) run the show. And its chaos in my opinion.
As this is a election year in the States, I believe that we vote more on the issues, and less on the color. I hope that Obama doesn't get elected simply because he's a black man. I hope that those who would vote for him, would do so on his merit, his stand on the issues, and the belief that he can effectively run the greatest country in the world. Let not your vote be wasted on what any candidate looks like - whether black or white, Rep. or Dem, male or female - but on the issues that face our country. I have seen what happens to a country that votes on color rather than who is best equipped to rule a nation. I hope that you don't make the same mistake.
So with that I say Happy Fourth of July. Count your blessings as you reflect on family, friends and food. Count your blessings that you live in a country that may be a bit opulent, but allows you to decide how opulent you will live. Count your blessings that you are free to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. But remember, it's a pursuit, it's not handed to you by anyone - not the government, your parents, spouse, anyone - you must pursue the things you want. As God pursues the thing he wants - YOU! So count your blessings, understand that you are blessed to live in America, and pursue the opportunities righted to you. Don't throw your rights away but blindly following the pack, but make up your own mind - who you will vote for, who you will follow.

Pull Over

2008-06-27T09:51:00.002-04:00

Well we knew it would happen eventually and it did. Kevin got pulled over by the SA police. He was on his way to a doctor's appointment and got all twisted around. He ended up in a turn-only lane, but wanted to go straight. Well we have been in this area before but never during rush hour (it was 8:30am). We're guessing this is a notorious intersection where those who are too impatient to wait in the line to go straight, use the turn lane and then attempt to cut into the lane going straight. Kevin said they were camped out (the police). We've seen this ourselves at the intersection of 137 ave and 104 st.
So Kevin got pulled over. But he's was glad, he was a little disoriented to which way he should go. The officer asked for his license. When Kevin asked him the best way to go, the officer made a face and then proceeded to give him directions. The face? He realized Kevin was a stranger in a strange place and knew his assumed impatience was actually just a lost American on the South Africa road.
Kevin said they were nice guys and he made it to the appointment early. Speaking of which Kevin's right knee has been a big problem for a while now but its been real bad these last few weeks. So through the network of missionaries in the area we found a great knee doctor. Unfortunately Kevin will need surgery. However, the doctor said it's a simple issue, just a few hours and he'll go home same day. Just a week on crutches and he'll be as good as new. So pray that we can save up the funds and that we'll get some help for our insurance. We're thinking sometime in Sept when the group comes to do VBS when we'll have down time with our work so he can recoup. So that's our news so far. I'm working on the next Newsletter so expect it mid July (as long as my mail house - Jescel- doesn't leave - please pray for her and her dad, see her blog for the info). If you're not sure you're on our mailing list and want a letter, email me and I'll add you on.

You'll Get Prosecuted...

2008-06-19T05:59:00.002-04:00

SO what could be so dire that you'll be prosecuted if you don't comply? Well let me explain. There's a saying that nothing is free in South Africa. Which sadly we're starting to discover. But lately we've seen an increase in making sure your TV license is valid. Okay, so for about a month now we've been wondering, "What's a TV license?" We assumed it was maybe your cable bill. They use different terminology here so we weren't sure what it was.
The last week we've seen commercials informing us that agents would be coming around to make sure your TV license is up to date. Then just yesterday on the one show that we watch (it's in Afrikaans with English subtitles), the TV inspector visited the characters. SO finally we had to find out what exactly this TV license was.
So I SMSed (texted message) Yolanda to find out. So are you curious? Do you know? Well here's the 411. A TV license is just that. It's a license to own a TV. Yep, if you go into a store to purchase a TV, you have to either show proof that you already have a license or you must purchase one. Then each year you have to renew the license or face a fine or face the possibility of going to jail - all so you can watch TV!!!

With that said I'll give you an update on other things here. We're still working on the after-school program. As I mentioned in an earlier blog the kids are testing so we've just opened the doors to allow them to come play. We're got small numbers but we're getting to know them better. We're working on collecting different ideas to start slowly. I think we both had this vision in our heads and thought it would just happen. God is showing us, making us, slow down and take it one step at a time. Building relationships with the kids is most important and this free play is allowing us to do so. We've actually gotten to know the two kids that live right next door to us since they're coming here.
Like I said, its slow but we're getting known. We drive down the street and often get waved at by someone. Its funny how sometimes we don't know them, but we know they know us from the schools and the Center. We so desperately want to share God's word and love, but we can do that by just hanging out with them, not necessarily preaching to them. I mean if you think about it, Christ developed a relationship with his disciples, He didn't just preach to them. So we're learning to follow God's leading and He'll make everything fall into place. Before we know it we'll be going full blown and seeing how He was with us each step of the way, and our eagerness will seem foolish. If that makes sense.

Other than that we're trying to beat the cold. The temperature isn't so bad (about 53F on average) but you add the wind and rain and its chilling. We Floridians don't know what to do. Kevin keeps telling me "This is why I left NJ!"

Today was the Senior Health Clinic. It's once a month. Unfortunately the nurses who originally volunteered are not so dependable anymore. So we must find new volunteers. There were about 50 seniors coming, today there were 12, because they know the nurses may not be here. But it was nice, Carol made split-pea soup, so we feed them a nice warm early lunch with soup, bread, tea and donuts. Everything was yummy, especially the soup. I've asked for the recipe so will share it when I get it. But please pray for nurses who are dependable who will help us minister to the seniors.
Also I wanted to thank those who sent money for our little projects. We have already purchased the heaters for the daycare and it came just in time. We also purchased a few smaller items like trash cans and games for the after school program (balls, badminton set, etc). We'll be getting a desk soon and the like. We've also asked the creshe (daycare) teachers to make a wish list. They're looking for educational toys and such for the kids. So we'll see. I'm planning a fundraiser now with Yolanda for the beginning of November. I'll let you know as things get closer.
Thank you again for your prayers and support. We are truly blessed at how God is providing for our needs and how you are sharing in this ministry with us. If there is anything you're intersted in knowing, like the kids, the schools, anything, send us an email or in the comments and we'll share. The Father's blessings on you all.

One other thing I'd like to share. Romans 14-15 says "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" This is why there are missionaries. This is why God sends out people into all the world. How can they believe if they do not hear, someone must tell them - and that's the job of a missionary - to tell the Good News. Some are sent to foreign lands, but we're all missionaries - we're all to tell of the Good News so that everyone who hears is given the opportunity to believe!
Blessings

Cool and Cool

2008-06-11T09:16:00.002-04:00

Well the winter is here and I my official forecast is.......THIS STINKS! Coming from Miami this is a real wake up call, I mean its rainy and cold. The average temp in our house is 58 - IN THE HOUSE!

But the reason I'm blogging is to update you on the boy who's mother was sick. He told me that his mother had gone to an imam for prayer but had not yet recovered. Well I've seen this young man again and he was smiling from ear to ear and said to me that his mother was fully recovered and thanked me for praying for her. I was speechless (those of you who know stop laughing) and it took me aback for a moment and than I told him that yes I had prayed for his mother and was very glad to know his mother was doing well. Please pray for this young man and his mother that they would come to Jesus as I believe there is an open door now. Well thanks for reading and God bless all.

Exam Folly

2008-06-09T09:50:00.003-04:00

Well we're on week two and we've hit a snag - Exams. All the kids are having their end-of-semester, midterm exams and so we only had a handful show up. So we figure we'll just step back and regroup. We'll let those who do show up just play, hang out and stuff and then start again when the new semester begins July 14. It's a learning process for sure.

It's fine actually, gives us a chance to see what's what and how we can make their experience here more fun and exciting. So pray as we just keep something going and see how to best reach the youth for Christ.

Thanks Marcy for getting me some material - it will be a huge help. And thanks to those who responded to our Wish List email. We will be able to get the essentials. We'll blog once we've purchased everything so those who gave of your hearts will be able to be as blessed as we will be!

Just a side note - since we are a family and well, family things happen, I've decided to split the blog. This one "Logans in South Africa" will be mission minded - so you'll just get updates to what's going on with our work. Our other blog Life with the Logans is where I'll post family tidbits about the girls and just more personal things here in South Africa. Plus that's where my links are to everyone else's blogs!
So thanks again for your prayers and your support.

Update

2008-05-29T07:42:00.003-04:00

Greetings all. I thought I’d add another post just to update you on what we’ve been doing. Things are going well in the school ministry. Kevin is learning how exhausting working with kids can be. He’s also learning to be a bit tougher than he’s use to. Kids are kids and they push to see what they can get away with. God has blessed because Neil is very much on top of the kids and Kevin says he’s learning a lot about keeping them in line. I so wish I could go with him and we’ve discussed me going in his place for one of the schools just to give me a chance to minister as well.

He also started a prayer list allowing the kids to put their names and prayer requests. Most say private just so their classmates don’t get too nosy, but there’s a lot on the list. He’s been able to talk with some of them and pray with them. We’re told many on the list are Muslim kids (they apparently can tell by the name). There have been a few instances where Kevin & Neil have had to share with the teacher or principal the concerns of the kids. One girl is being abused by her grandfather. The mother is trying to get her to drop the official complaint. The grandfather is apparently their only source of income and they’d be out in the street. So I say take the girl out of the house, but we don’t know how it works here. But we’ve been pursuing the case and yet still nothing is being done. Please pray for her, Miska. It takes a lot of courage to do what she’s doing even when her own mother is fighting against her. There is also a young man who says his father gets drunk, beats his mother and threatens to kill them all. Could you imagine living in that fear! He says the next day the father apologizes, but of course it’s a never ending cycle of abuse and apologizing (not really remorse or he’d stop). So please pray for Tarren.

The after school program is starting Monday and I will be more involved with this ministry. Since it will be in the afternoon (3-4:30) the girls will prayerfully stay in the daycare while we’re just in the next room. Please pray about this for us. The girls have been very reluctant and I’m not sure what to do. I think I’m just going to have to force the issue. It’s like being in Sunday School, and they got use to that so…

Our first series will be on Respect – with our words, with our deeds, those in authority, and respecting our minds & bodies (drugs, sex, etc). We’ve got worksheets and games. I can’t wait to start! After the series (4 weeks) there’s a two week break so this will give us a chance to evaluate how things went and what to alter, what worked, what didn’t, etc. We’ve got three helpers, Neil and Patsy with her daughter Kimon. Kimon will be doing the music while Neil & Pasty will help just oversee the kids and take groups when we break into smaller groups, as will Kevin and I. The basic schedule is 30 minutes of game time, 15 mins of music, 45 minutes for the lesson and small group discussions. So pray all goes well and we are able to reach these kids. One of the things we’re finding difficult is how to present some of these messages. These are not kids from Christian homes. These are kids from very dysfunctional and/or Muslim homes. So our approach is much different. We must approach them as if they know nothing of Christ and will get no further teachings at home. So we can’t teach from a point of understanding, but a point of introducing Christ. When you’ve worked with kids who know Christ or at least have a somewhat Christian home it sometimes tricky on switching tactics. But God has given us wisdom. We figure if we can teach them morality, honestly, etc with Christ as the source behind these characters (like God hates lying, God made your body for purity, etc) we can introduce Christ to them while teaching them how to live godly lives with Christ as the example. Oh, don’t worry there will be salvation messages, there will be “you need Christ to live a truly joyful life, to help you fight off sin”, etc!

Also next week we’ll be taking a seminar learning how to work with kids that have been abused. This will help us with the procedures of getting them help. However, we will have to put the girls in the daycare (creshe, as its called here) for almost the whole day. Its just a one off thing, I know I’m stressing too much about it. I don’t feel guilty doing it since it’s not a permanent thing, I’m more stressed about Laura & Carol (the teachers) having to deal with them if they’re unwilling to cooperate! Again I ask for prayer that this week I can acclimate them in without too much fuss and stress.

I finally finished one of the major projects, a website. It’s nothing fancy – I know what I’m doing but I’m no expert so be kind. Check it out, see what’s going on, let me know if you find any problems. It will continue to evolve as I get other items added on like a donation page, a blog, etc. The site is opportunitytoserve.org. Kevin’s cousin, Tommy, has graciously donated space on his server so it’s not costing anything to host which was a concern of course. Plus he’s a genius and can help me when I do run into trouble! Thanks Tommy, you’re my superhero!!!

Just one more thing I’d like to share. Since we’ve been here (not even 3 months yet!) I’ve been stressed about why I’m here. Why did God choose us? In my reading time last night I was in 1 Timothy and I came across this verse which really spoke to me and I thought I’d share – it set my mind at ease and I really felt God answering my concern– 1Tim 1:12 “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that He considered me faithful, appointing me to His service.” WOW!

Okay, one last-last thing: as we begin the new outreach we have been spending more time at the Center. And of course we’re seeing things that need to be done. Our hearts are to just purchase all that is needed, but we are not financially able to do so, unless we forgo our own needs. With that said we thought we’d extend an invitation to you to help with some of the small items we feel would help organize ourselves, as well as just items we feel are necessary. Many of you contacted us saying that you would not be able to support us financially, which we totally understand, but we thought maybe a one time gift to supply the center would give you the opportunity to help. Listed below are the items we have need of as of now. I’m listing everything (even so wants, not needs) and we ask that you pray to see how God leads you to help. If you want to donate funds for an item you can send the gift to Vicki Bryant at FRC and note it’s for LOGANS IN SA. Then you can either email us directly, or make a note to Vicki what it’s for and we promise to purchase the item. If you should donate more than we need, or donate towards an item someone else has already gifted, we ask your permission to use it for another item. We will not keep the money for ourselves, but promise to use it for the center only as you indicated. Also with the fluctuating exchange between the Dollar and Rand (SA money) the amounts are based on a $1 to R7. Meaning if an item is R70 it’s $10. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us via email.
Thanks so much and God bless.

ITEMS
1. Trash cans $20 (2) We are forever looking for a can to throw things away. This will put one in each of the two rooms that we are in the most.
2. Paper Tray $20 (1) This will allow me to organize the paper chaos in the office. There are four trays that will allow sufficient storage.
3. Cork Board $30 (2) This will allow us to post notices, rules and other things is an orderly fashion as well as making a designated spot to look.
4. Clock $10 (2) So we can keep track of the time.
5. Heaters $35 (3). This is mainly for the daycare. There are currently no heaters in the rooms and it can become an icebox for the children.
6. Lesson Board (1) $140. This is a white erasable board on a stand. We would like this to use during the teaching times. It will be used for the afterschool program as well as the youth group meetings and any other ministries we start.
7. Monthly Planner (1) $30. So we can have an overview of the month. Its an eraseable whiteboard so we can just change it each month.
8. Desk & chair $400

These are just what we see now - well there's one more item, a new playset, the one they have now is falling apart and really to "old" for the 2-4 year olds that are cared for at the creshe (daycare). But that's a large item and I'm still researching. But just wanted to mention it...
Thank you for all your comments and emails. Its like getting mail at the house (which we get none!) so even if it's to say hi, send us an email or something! :) XO

Greetings

2008-05-20T09:19:00.002-04:00

Greetings in the name of our blessed savior Jesus Christ. So you have been waiting for me to blog:) {Kevin} Well here it is!
I go to 4 schools a week while driving my weird African car on the other side of the road. What do I do? I teach a life skills lesson, yes what an open door I know. I work with Mr. Neil who is a retired traffic cop. He's teaching me a lot about how to deal with the local kids. I thank God for going before me and giving me a great fellow worker who has a heart for the youth of his community.
The last time I was back in N.J. at my home church my pastor prayed for "The destruction of Islam mostly through the conversion of souls" I feel that God is using me to answer at least the "mostly through the conversion of souls" part of the prayer and I am very humbled to be doing so.
Once in the schools we play games and then I teach a life skills lesson in which so far I have discussed the 5th and 9th commandments keeping in mind I have to careful about how I teach these Biblical truths. But thank God for wisdom! I have been asking the kids at the end of the lesson if they have anything they would like me or Neil to pray for and that I have a list they can add their name to.
Well the last post Holly mentioned some the problems these kids hit you with {and you think you have problems}. The kids have not only talked to me or Neil but have responded to the prayer lists including many Muslim kids with great enthusiasm. One kid asked me to pray for his mother who is sick but added that she had gone to an imam and that he wanted me to pray for her as well. Please pray that God would heal this woman and that He would get the credit and the glory.
I do feel that what God has given me and Holly to do is at times very difficult but I know that God will never leave us nor forsake us and that we will keep in well doing. Please pray for me in that I have many children to pray for and the enemy will try to distract me from this because we wrestle not against flesh and blood. Next week we begin to let it all hang out at the frog center. I mean the Good News will be proclaimed and the community will know who we are and what we are doing {yes I mean the Muslims} so please pray the Lord will give us courage and wisdom and safety. Thank you all for your prayers, friendship, love, and support.

Support

2008-05-16T05:01:00.003-04:00

As we prepare to begin the afterschool program to accompany the in-school program our hearts are heavy. We just received our monthly support for the month - $430. We know God can be trusted, but it's hard to not feel some concern.
The children here in Mitchells Plain need to hear the Good News so desperately. Already Kevin has faced physical and sexual abuse, parental drug addiction, and other issues among the students in just the few weeks he’s been working at the schools.
We are here because God chose us to be here, to do His work, to share His love and mercy with the youth of Mitchells Plain. While we are concerned about the support, and yes we will have to return home if we cannot raise enough funds to live here, we are confident that we won’t have to return before we complete our three-year commitment.
We left family, friends, safety, comfort, and warmth (it’s freezing here) to serve our Lord and Savior in a country struggling to learn how to live under a free government. Our hearts have always been to work for Christ and youth. And here we are. God has given us the desires of our hearts. How amazing to serve Him fulltime. But we are also content that if we must return home, we must. If we are unable to fulfill our call here in South Africa, maybe He will provide a way for us to meet the call somewhere else.
Please pray and consider what we are doing here. We can only fulfill our commitment to the youth of this community if you are willing to support the work. We can only fulfill our commitment to the youth of this community if you are willing to share in the Great Commission.
Just wanted to remind you that if you are supporting our work here in South Africa that you remember to send your gift to:

Vicki Bryant
Flamingo Road Church
12401 Stirling Road
Cooper City, FL 33330
MEMO: Logans in SA

vicki.bryant@flamingoroad.org
Phone: 954-434-1500 X128

Make sure you are indicating that the funds are for “Logans in SA”. If you do not indicate it is for us, we will not receive it. We are thankful that so many of you are willing to support our family. If you believe your support may not have been applied to our account, please contact Vicki Bryant at the above email or phone.

Stormy Weather

2008-05-12T04:42:00.004-04:00

Hello all. I just say it's been almost 2 weeks since I blogged last. Sorry. Without access I often use the computer here at the center for "business" and sometimes forget to even look at the blog. We are SO anxious to get access at the house. It's amazing how accustom you become to such easy access to information and the like. When it's gone you really struggle. You don't know how many times I've thought "Oh I have to check on the internet" but alas no internet and who can remember things the next morning?
Kevin is in the second week of working at the schools. (There was a week break after one week's lessons because of holidays). We'll be starting the afterschool program May 26 so pray for us. I'm working on the curriculum, but without knowing how many kids we'll have its hard. The first few weeks will be a test run. Actually the first 5 weeks, then it's another 2 weeks off. It's amazing how many days off these kids get! But it will give us 2 weeks to evaluate everything and make adjustments. Taking photos in the school is difficult so once we start the afterschool I should get more to post.
The students are already excited about the afterschool program. Kevin's been letting them know and many are anxious to come. Which means we could easily have over 500 here! Pray for wisdom as we go into uncharted territory (for us). I still have thoughts of "what am I doing here! I can't do this" But I am reminded that I can do all things through Christ and that we would not be here if God did not KNOW we were able. But the thought still crosses my mind!
As some of you know, the girls have had their first official colds here in SA. A trip to the doctor to confirm ear infections along with the congestion and barking coughs. Emily was so sick she NAPPED!!! A two hour nap!!! Now you know she's not feeling well. But they got rest and meds and are all better. But just to help along we took some advice from the Aguirres and though some fresh sea air would help things so we drove to Vishoek (Fishhook) and walked along the beach. It wasn't too cold, just very breezy. It took us longer to drive there than the time we were there but we just wanted the girls to get some fresh air and sunshine.
We do have some prayer requests and praises. First the praise - the girls are doing better and this is now our "special house". With our car we're learning our way around and settling in nice. My superhero Tommy has offered to host the website and help out (THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES) I was so stressed about this you can't imagine.
Prayer request - Kevin's been having a few health issues - nothing serious but I'm sure its the enemy trying to keep him down, so please pray for his health. For the afterschool program - success, lesson ideas, that many will come to know Christ. For me - I so want to be involved with the programs, but I don't want to "sacrifice" the girls and my duties as a mom. I've been praying to God for wisdom in this area so your additional prayers are appreciated. I need direction on how to be both a mom and a helper to Kevin. I was hoping the girls would settle into the daycare here just while I'm helping (we'd all be in the same building) but they are VERY resistant to it and I don't want to hand off screaming children. So any wisdom and prayer is most welcomed.
That's all for now. Just living life, once the afterschool starts things will be really moving. The weather's been cold and very rainy. It's weird here that unlike at home where it starts to sprinkle and then turns into a downpour it just starts to down pour, out of the blue (no pun intended!). So if you're caught outside you're soaked!
Well we're off and I'll blog again as soon as I'm able. Love to all and miss you lots. Hoping to see some of you here soon! (hint, hint)

Out and About

2008-04-28T15:49:00.008-04:00

Victoria & Albert Waterfront
On Saturday, April 19 the Logan family got out for some fun. After daddy spent most of the week preparing for the school ministries – visiting schools, meeting principals – and mommy and girls were landlocked waiting for the phone company it was a desperately needed outing.
So off to the V&A Waterfront. This is a must see tourist visit. It’s the gateway to Robben Island, the famed home of the prison that held Mandela during Apartheid. It was originally build as a port by the British in 1869. Revamp in the 1990s it’s now a huge mall, with restaurants, shops, as well as an aquarium, the Mandela museum with a ferry to Robben Island. There’s a hotel as well as street performers, clubs and apparently a wild night life.
So we got a lift and spent much of the afternoon there. First we stopped by the Two Oceans Aquarium. It was crowded, since it was a Saturday, but had some cool exhibits. There was a really cool exhibit, a very large window into the aquarium and you can watch the ocean sway back and forth. It’s a little hypnotizing.
They also had penguins and a living example of the water systems here with the oceans and such. They also had a shark tank (for some extra Rand you can swim with them!) plus a “walk through” tank. It was a nice visit. I think we were too hungry to really explore like we could have. After about an hour there we were starving. I mean starving so we headed to good-ole reliable KFC. Yum. We all chowed down, eating every bit. Then we walked around some more. You cross a little swing bridge and you’re in the Albert section – a little smaller mall. But here’s where the Mandela museum and ferry are. There’s also a large open area where Emily gave an interruptive dance recital. I caught the end on video. She’s too funny.

Our Ride
Yes, we finally got our car. About 5 days later than expected, but it’s living in the “car room” (as dubbed by Emily). It’s a Toyota Avanza. We like to call it a mini-minivan. With the car seats installed (YEA they are in car seats again!) it will fit 6 people. The four of us and two passengers in the third row which sits right against the trunk door. It’s a 1.5 liter engine (not sure what that means) and is manual drive (stick shift). We just filled it up for the first time today and will probably take about $55 to fill up. Ouch.(petrol is just under $6 a gallon) But with the short drives we’ll be doing most of the time we’re hoping this won’t be necessary too often. Since petrol, that’s gasoline – gas is what makes your soda bubbly, petrol is what you put in your car – is regulated by the government all petrol is the same price no matter where you go and in the next month they will be raising the price again!
We’ve ventured out just today (Fri Apr 25). We were attempting to get one place, but ended up in another, but at least we knew where we were going and were able to get home again. I have driven the short drive between the house and the Center without issue, but Kevin does the longer drives, like today. He’s doing well and staying on the correct side of the road. One thing we are realizing is that we tend to sway to the right a lot. Why? Because we’re use to the majority of the car being to the left, so in order to keep the car centered, in the States you keep to the right. Now the majority of the car is to the left. So that’s four issues to deal with, stick shift, driver’s side on the left of the car, driving on the left side of the street and remembering not to sway too much to the right. OY! But like I said, Kevin’s doing well. Its still a tense ride because every instinct is telling you you’re driving wrong, but I know it will become more natural as we continue to get around.
As to when we’ll get a phone and dsl, who knows! I’ll just have to let you know it’s happened when it finally happens. For those of you leaving messages on our Vonage, we are getting them via email – but we still don’t have access in the house – only at the Center when we can get there to use it!

Here are just some random photos. Enjoy. More to come on the work we're doing in the schools now that the first week is done. But believe it or not - after two weeks back in school they've got practically another full week off - so Kevin will only be in one school this week. Next week will start a full two months with no more breaks so things will really be rolling! I'm working on a web site so you can really see what's going on with every thing. Any advice anyone can offer would be great. While I know the basics of web design and hosting I'm no expert so help is greatly appreciated. Esp. if you know someone who will donate the space!
XO

Quick Notes

2008-04-19T13:45:00.004-04:00

Just here checking bills and emails. Still no DSL at the house, here's the story...
On Wed, phone company came out to install line. BUT no wiring has been run, so they can't install the phone. Okay. So they said they'd call the cable guys to come out either that day or Thurs. Well of course no one has shown up as I sit in the house day after day, cause if you aren't there, nothing happens.
Now, here the dilemma (apart from the fact that we still don't have simple phone service). This coming Wed the DSL guy is supposed to be coming out to install our DSL. But guess what is most likely going to happen. Yep, you guessed it - there's no phone, because there's no wiring, so there can't be any DSL. I think we'll have to start this whole process over again. And seeing how this has taken about 7 weeks to see something happening, it may be another two months before things are finally done!!! So I rely on using the computer at the FROG center or coming to J&E (John & Evelyn's) to use the wireless. As I am doing now as Kevin sits home occupying the girls.
We should have our car by Monday, so I'll post pic when that happens. It took a week to transfer the $ with all the back and forth and not getting the documents and paperwork and the questions to see if I really own the account and blah, blah, blah. So Monday. But now I'm worried about learning stick shift again, while learning to drive differently than I'm use to in a city I'm not familiar with, but its all part of the adventure right?
Monday Kevin will finally start working in the schools and our plan is to start the after school by end of May. We're excited that something is starting to happen. We're tired of not doing anything! THe firs two weeks were fine, but we're ready to work, ready to get moving, ready to minister! So YEA!
We did get two care packages, unopened, and unfeathered from my mom and Kevin's aunt & uncle (we did have to pay a custom fee - about $3.50). Thanks so much. The girl's are loving the pop-tarts and the teething tablets are coming in handy. Thanks for the shirts grandma - they fit fine.
Went out today for a bit of fun, but will blog about that later with pics. Hopefully tomorrow.
The weather is turning very cold. Was raining on and off. So it's coming! Well, other than me sitting at home all week waiting for the phone company (which looks like how my next week will be spent) not too much going on. Oh there is one thing I'd like to mention, if you'd allow me - our support. While we had about 76% pledged, we're only actually receiving 14%. FRC makes deposits into our account the 15th of each month and while we've only been here a month, we've received two deposits, both very, very low. Kevin and I both now that God will provide and we're not totally freaking out (yet). But I thought I'd share. Please continue to pray as Kevin begins this week. Also pray for the girls. Emily is still missing home. Just last night she told Kevin, "I don't like this house, I want to go to my other house." I'm praying that it's simply because we've been imprisoned in the house because of no car and the phone issue. Once we're free to roam I think it will get better. But this has made me homesick as well for just the things of home like the park, the zoo, Publix, our neighborhood. Since we're still unknown here and being "white" its not safe to wonder by ourselves. We did venture out one day but got a little "harassed'. So with the girls it's best to stay indoors. Everyone says once we're know by the work in the schools and the center it will get better - I guess these are just growing pains. Learning to live in a different world.
Alright, talk to you soon and thank you again for your prayers and support. We're here, but we're here because of your willingness to share in the ministry and the work.

Long Time No Blog

2008-04-14T14:43:00.002-04:00

Hello. I know its been a while, but not much has really happened. I mean things have happened but I guess nothing really to write home about. LOL
Here’s an update on what has happened.
In just a week we’ve experienced two black outs. The first was last Monday (the 7 th – I’m writing this on the 12 th). The lights were out two hours, 8am to 10am. Wasn’t a big deal, we were home and just played and stuff. It was actually kind of nice. The second was just today at the grocery store. Yep, doing a little shopping and then, lights out. But again, no worry, the store had a back up generator. How do I know this you ask? Well, first off almost immediately the lights and refrigeration came back on, and after a reboot, the computer (cash registers and such) were back on. Plus, as I waited for Kevin to purchase some advil, I saw a guy with about 16 very large containers filled with diesel heading to the back of the store. But within 20 minutes or so the power was fully restored. Just got stuck behind some lady complaining about the price of something and holding up the line for like 20 minutes.
We should hopefully have our home phone by this coming Wednesday, the 16 th and then the DSL hooked up by the following Wednesday. Just 5 to 6 weeks to get it done :P
Once that’s done I’ll probably be blogging more.
The schools start back up on Monday after a three week break. Kevin will go around on Tuesday to meet with the principals and figure out what times he’ll be at each school. Of the four schools, three of the principals are born-again Christians (that’s a distinction here) and one is Muslim. But they’ve told us he is very open to us coming into his school. These are all primary school. We’ve been told that the high schools are too dangerous, and the kids are unreachable at this point. But Kevin and I say no one is unreachable. So we hope to get into the high schools as well. But this will be down the road a bit. Please pray for us as we begin. Our plan is to start in the schools first, then start the afterschool program then a weekly youth group. We’re looking for help, a band, and other people to come along side and minister with us. We know God will work it out, but of course, your prayers are always a help.
Speaking of youth, if anyone has any books, websites or any other suggestions that would be great. We need games for large groups, bible studies, take home studies or something, easy – quick craft ideas (not too expensive). We could also use some teen bibles (with old and new testaments – never liked the NT only books, it only gives you half the story!) So if you have any connections or suggestions, please pass it on!
Okay, I know what most of you want to know is about the car. Well we should have that come Wednesday is all goes right. Since we are unable to open a bank account here (see previous blog) our only option was to buy one out right. But that means cash. And well, we don’t have that kind of cash. I mean who of us has every really bought a car outright? So my parents have graciously gotten a loan for us and so the Bank of Mom & Dad have once again saved us. We did have about a third available from the sale of our Honda so we haven’t had to borrow too much. With that said we are getting a mini-minivan. It’s a Toyota Avanza. Emily has chosen the burgundy (she wanted blue like our other car, but this blue isn’t very nice so we persuaded her to choose another – so she picked the lemon-lime green, again after a little persuasion she chose burgundy – yea). It’s a 7 seater, but will probably only really fit six unless you have small kids or very skinny people. Once we get it I’ll post pics. Now my worry is driving. Since this is a very inexpensive car (roughly $18,000) it only comes in manual drive. So we must relearn to drive stick-shift, BUT since the driver is on the right side, the stick shift is to the left. So not only do we have to relearn stick-shift, but we have to learn to do it left handed (the petals are the same though). I’m already having dreams! Kevin will have to drive it home from the dealership, so pray for him. I’ve already started! Oh just wanted to tell you as well, this is a basic car – so basic that the radio is an extra expense. We were like “WHAT?” In the States, standard comes with at least a one-disc CD player. But not even a run-of-the-mill radio on this one. Even pastor though it a little strange, but again this car was like R100,000 (about $15,000) less than all the other cars Kevin looked at. So I guess you get what you pay for! LOL.
Though we are excited about finally getting our own car. While Evelyn (and even Pastor) has been gracious about taking us places it still in the back of our minds that “they must have other things to do” so we feel rushed and hindered (we’ve never felt this from anyone, but you can’t help but think it and feel it). So to get around on our own time, at our own pace will be nice. We’re hoping to visit the aquarium and zoo. Both are a bit of a drive, but the girls need some fun time. The only outings we do are shopping (mostly grocery) which doesn’t allow them running and playing time. Though we did manage to get to a very nice mall call Canal Walk. Big mall with 4 Christian books stores (!), a KFC, McDonalds, as well as a few other familiars like CNA, Guess, and other stores. No GAP, but we saw a store that carried Gap clothes. It’s weird in that every mall, shopping center and the like that we’ve been to is just that, it’s a shopping center with at least one grocery store, and a cellphone store. After that it varies as to the other shops but it’s not like where you go just to publix, or just to wal-mart. Everything is contained within a mall. So you go to the mall, buy some clothes, shoes, some new furniture and your groceries all in the same place. I guess it makes it easier than driving to 20 different locations.
Finally did some baking today. Made Sherry bread (came out great as usual – because of the recipe, not the baker). I even halved the recipe because I didn’t have enough flour on hand. I’ve yet to find all-purpose, just cake and self-rising – so I used the cake. Came out great. Kevin made his cookies. It’s impossible to find chocolate chips here. We’ve yet to find them, though they must be somewhere because I can’t imagine people don’t make cookies here. So we chopped up a chocolate bar. Nice dark-chocolate. We’ll have to work on figuring out the stove for baking. The first batch was seconds away from being burnt and it wasn’t until the third (out of four) that they came out like at home. But he’ll figure it out.
Well I’m sure this is long enough and you’re ready to move on so I’ll say good-night for now and hopefully my next blog will be from the house. Please continue to pray as we finally get to start our ministry here. We have big ideas and pray the Lord has His blessings on them. Our prayer and hope is to make a big difference in the lives of this community – to win not just some, but many, to Christ. Goeie Nag (Good Night).
UPDATE: It's Monday evening here - just over Pastor's house using the internet and again we had an outage - 8 to 10:30am. I'm thinking this will be a weekly thing for a while. Oh well, we get to play and find other things to do while we're without.

South African Family

2008-04-03T06:55:00.009-04:00

I think I'm actually keeping ahead of everyone. I'm blogging more than you can read!!!

I just thought I'd take this time to introduce you to our SA Family. I don't have pictures of everyone yet and honestly haven't met everyone yet, but that will come in time.

As you know Pastor John & Evelyn are the ones who "hired" us. They are the parents of 5 children and 9 grandchildren. The oldest being 13, the youngest 2-1/2.

Yolanda, the oldest, is married to Sean and has two kids. Bianca (13) and Stephen (8). Bianca swims competitively practicing both morning and eventing 5 days a week. Her team will be heading to Germany in the near future to compete and she had Olympic dreams for 2012. Keep her in prayers regarding this. How incredible to be able to even honestly reach that goal! Stephen is very sweet and good with the girls. He's a fun boy and we enjoy his company. Yolanda is the one I have spent most of my time with and I like her very much. I finally got to see her for a short time yesterday as we left her home. We were celebrating Eltheo's birthday at her house, but she was at swimming practice with Bianca. The children got restless and as we were leaving, she was coming.

Next in line is Grant. Kevin spent some time with him, but I have yet to meet him. He's a city councilman I think with the DA party - similar to Rep. (The ANC is the current ruling party - Mandala's party - and are closer to the Dem party but more socialist). He is married to Jolene and has two children, Zoe (9) and Mato (2-1/2). We have been able to spend lots of time with Zoe. Joline is the one who drove us to the playground near the ocean and then the other stops. Mato is very quite. Though we spent almost 2 days with him I have not heard him speak yet! The other night though he played with the girls and Kevin with some bubbles! Please pray for Joline. She had surgery on Monday - fibrous removed from her uterus (like you V) and is in a lot of pain.

Next is Eltheo, he's the youngest son. He is married (though don't know her name) with one daughter name Tara. We spent one day with her when we went to the mall and had a nice lunch. She's sweet, I think she's about 5. Eltheo and his wife are about to move into a new house so they're in a bit of limbo right now with furniture and stuff. I met Eltheo briefly at Yolanda's house, but Kevin hasn't met him yet.

Fourth is Sonya. She recently moved as well so she's been busy with that. She has one daughter as well, Michila (11) whose been spending the week with Evelyn during the school break. Those of you who came in 2002 will remember her as a little budgie 6 year old who clung to Daniel B. She's grown to be a lovely young lady.

And last but not least is Helena. She's married to Simon and has two little boys Liam (4-1/2) and Luke (2-1/2). They live in a very nice area about 40 minutes from MP. They are both very nice. Simon owns a mattress company with his brother where they actually make the mattresses. Helena is a trained nutritionist who stays home with the boys. We spent a nice Saturday afternoon with them. Unlike our John and Joshie (yes they are ours!) they weren't as playful. I think Luke wasn't feeling well and later in the day Liam was "too tired" to play. So the girls just played outside on the swingset and sandbox without their hosts!

So that's everyone. So out of the 5 I've not met Grant, Sonya or Eltheo's wife. Kevin had not met Eltheo, his wife or Sonya. We've met all the kids, and the 3 girls, Bianca, Michila and Zoe, with Stephen, have been spending time with Evelyn so we've seen a lot of them. Emily calls them My Girls. Too cute.

Here's a picture of those I've been able to capture. I'm sure you will see their faces many more times!

Some Free Time

2008-04-01T09:47:00.003-04:00

Well I'm here at the FROG Center just checking email and such. The girls were playing but now Katie is fast asleep on my lap. So I don't really want to get up and I've looked through everyone's blogs so now what. I guess I'll blog a bit off the top of my head. But read on cause there are two new posts after this one.
Katie (since she's present) is talking a lot more. Get up, chase me, i'm stuck. it's funny. She calls Emily "E". So it's where's E? She's also very concerned about Emily at times. If Emi is crying or if I hand her a drink I have to make sure Emily has one too. Its too cute.
Emily's into telling jokes now. "What to hear a joke?" she asks. But of course the punchlines are nonsense but she thinks they're hysterical cause she just laughs and says "get it?" That make you laugh so...
Its funny when you come in from the outside and see things fresh. There are so many things I would love to do around here. I went today to take pictures of the feeding program they do at the church (will post picture later). The equipment they were using to cook all that food was nothing. I'm seriously considering contacting like Rachael Ray or someone to get them upgrades. They're using simple laminate tables to cut and chop - a butcher block would be so much better...
Anyway, it was great to be there. I took pictures, helped served the food. They had about 50 people but said since it's the first of the month many were out getting their pension checks so not as many came. There was even one little boy about 4 or 5.
I know someone asked but we have electricity. No gas. Thank you Lord. When I was a kid we had a fire and I've been a bit nervous about gas stoves ever since. But the burners are weird. I tried making spaghetti sauce No. 1 kept things boiling as if it were still on No. 6. And the instruction book had nothing on the burners, just the oven. I told Kevin I'll have to put two pots on - one set to 6 and one to 1 and see what happens!
I can't wait to start working - I'm so bored. We're in bed right after the girls most nights. I guess once we get a car it will be better, then we can come and go as we please (after we learn how to get around these streets!) I'm getting use to seeing the driving backwards and mentally drive while in the car but putting into practice will be another story. Most cars here as manual - with the shifter on the left! Oh boy. We're going to try our best to get an automatic.
Well gonna go. Getting hot in this room and Katie's sweating so off to a cooler area.
Later

Race Relations

2008-04-01T09:21:00.001-04:00

This culture of three races is very confusing. I’ve learned that an Afrikaner is a white person. They have their own version of the n-word here – the k-word. Don’t know what it is, but there was an article in the paper that some councilman used it and is in big trouble. It’s strange in that the councilman is black. In the US we have two “races” black and white. But here it’s complicated with whites, blacks and coloreds. So unlike the States where you mostly have racism on one front (unfortunately usually white against black) here it’s a two-front assault. With colors being everything but whites (Japanese are considered honorary whites) and the very dark skinned blacks, race relations is a bit confusing. I mean each group (yet again unfortunate that in our day and age we still group) has two groups to hate and two groups to be hated by. My overall impression so far is that, as in the States, it’s mostly an isolated thing. It’s not like the whole country is divided over their skin color. You’ll have some one just say something they simply should not have said. But remember Apartheid just ended about 14 years ago. So anyone over the age of like 18 remembers what it was like and anyone much older spent a good part of their lives in this oppressive-privileged system. It’s probably much like our own country after the slaves were freed and again with the civil rights movement. You have practically a whole country who remember and lived under such a government and a generation of people who weren’t allowed to succeed or be fully educated. So you have parents who don’t know any other way of life struggling to give their children the opportunities they themselves were prohibited from having but without the real hands-on to know how to do that. I see a new generation trying to live free, without restraints, but I think without too much realization there are responsibilities with freedom. There is a LOT of teen pregnancy here. Everywhere I look I see kids with kids. Children raised by a single mother or other relative is extremely common, even among the Christian families. Drug abuse, fatherless children and general mischief are ways of life in many of the poorer areas. I pray as we work with the kids here we can impact a generation for Christ. Show them that there is a better life, a better way of doing life. That despite this country’s racial past, they CAN do anything, IF they make the RIGHT choices; IF they choose to live healthy, drug-free lives; IF they can learn to choose to say YES to their futures, YES to their health, YES to making better lives for their own children and not continue to live in the cycle they all seem so helplessly caught in. If you think about it, this country has been given a new path. They are learning how to walk again with different legs. Legs that have a will of their own and not forced to walk a certain trail. They are still learning how to overcome obstacles that have been in their path for so long it’s still difficult to know the best way around. But as most countries of this planet, they will learn. Unfortunately South Africa lives in two worlds. A world of advancements and a world of retraction. I mean you can get DSL but no one owns a dryer. You can get satellite TV but you see tons of people walking because cars and gas are too expensive for the mast majority. I knew living here would open my eyes more to the privileges and advances we have in the States. I was never blinded by the fact that despite my own “privileged” way of life that there wasn’t struggles elsewhere in the world. I was never oblivious to the fact that there are those hurting, hungry and dying elsewhere. But I guess until you live among such troubles do you really see it. Even with the information available to us, it still dumbfounds me that people live in such a way. I guess to as a Christian, a follower of Christ, I can see the answer to their problems. I know the better way and it frustrates me that such sin, such evil still exist. I can only imagine how God must feel day after day when He sees us hurting one another, indulging is stupid self-destructive acts. My prayer is that I can do my small part. That when I get to that final resting place I will meet some of these kids there who were impacted by my willingness to follow Christ into all the world. That they will tell me of the lives they lived, how they accomplished their dreams, raised a generation of Christ-followers and made an impact in the world themselves.

Another Update

2008-03-31T08:36:00.008-04:00

Hello all! Monday afternoon here and still no dsl at the house. But I came prepared to post and blog!
We missed another service, but to no fault of our own. Pastor John is out of town and the guest preacher only speaks Afrikaans, no translation available. So we had our own little version of church at home. The congregants were into the music but when pastor daddy started to read from the children's bible they scattered. I told him they were still listening even if they weren't looking! :)
FIRST MEAL
I made my first big meal. Roasted chicken. Just for Jescel I took pictures. I'm thinking Sunday lunch is a big one here. So I made my own rubbing with some herbs I had purchased with garlic and olive oil. Cut up some veggies and one apple (I like to add for a little sweetness) and cooked it in the oven. I have to say it's the moistest, most tender chicken I've ever made! I even impressed myself. I think I'm getting the hang of this oven and Celsius thing. Here are the pictures.

HANGING OUT
Here are just a few pictures of the girls playing on the play equipment at the FROG Center. My project is to get a new one. It's too small for all the kids that play on it, plus it's not in very good condition. And not enough swings. So if anyone has any ideas, pass it on. We also went to another park near the other ocean last Monday. We went into a small grocery store for lunch. The top middle and right pictures are from that. They had these little shopping carts just Emily's size. She was too cute pushing that thing around. So of course I took a picture! The middle one is them eating lunch atop a wall waiting for the car we were traveling in to get a bath. They were VERY detailed! The top left pic is Emily sitting in the playroom playing her leapster. Too cute with the legs crossed. The bottom middle is the girls in the computer room at the Center. Finally a computer connected to the Internet!!!

GENERAL
A ride to the playground means a lot more than that. Yesterday we headed to the playground, it was a 40 minute ride with a stop at NY Bagels. Yes a bagel store where we stocked up on bagels and hummus. Then to the playground, then to get pizza, then a stop at the groceries. Now mind you, the only time we got out of the very cramped car (two adults and four kids in the back seat of a BMW sedan) was the bagel store and playground. It was hot, and three hours later we made it home. Despite this the playground was great. Right on the ocean (sorry no pics didn't expect it) and lots of people playing. We walked down to the water and climbed some rocks. Very fun and adventurous. We were all exhausted after that.
Not having a car stinks. We're dependant on people who have other things to do. So we have to wait, but at least their willing to take us somewhere!
Monday is garbage day in our neighborhood, which means the can must be out by 8am Mon. morning. Not the night before because the wheels might get stolen. So after Kevin took it out this morning I noticed a man digging through it and ate a piece of crust left in the pizza box. Then a little while longer two women came by and dug through it as well, but just quickly. I think they were looking for recyclables. I might separate these items so they're easier to get without digging through our trash.
Flys are every where. No matter where you go, whose house you're in, there are flys. Reason. No screens on the windows which are opened everyday. We open them in the morning to let the warm air in to heat up the house. Then by the time it gets cooler outside, the house is warm. Though it's cold by morning again.
Kevin's working on the computer's here in the Center. Three aren't working. But he knows why so just need to get the parts.
We still have no washing machine. So poor me must have someone else to the laundry. Ms. Silvia is the wash lady here. She does every one's laundry from what I have gathered. Mom, who knew years later that I would still be hanging my laundry out to dry on the clothes line. Well, not that I'm doing it, but if they do finally put in a washing machine, I will be! All the helping putting it up and taking it down will pay off.
Overall things are okay. We're a little bored. As I said earlier there are only 4 channels to watch and without a car we can't really go anywhere without escort. There are no playgrounds near by that are safe for us to be at - at this time. They said once Kevin starts working in the schools and all the kids know us it will be safer to venture out in the neighborhood. Now were just strangers.

Most of you should be receiving Volume 1 Edition 1 of our Family newsletter. There are pictures of the house (finally) as well as more news and a recipe for you to try. Thanks for checking in and we'll be in touch. Hopefully before the end of this week!!!
XO

Hello Again

2008-03-27T04:49:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone. Well almost two weeks in and not too much is happening. Still no phone or DSL at the house. We do have cell phones so we're not totally in the dark.
We're here at the FROG center now using the computer. It's faster so maybe next time we come around I'll post some pic.
Monday was a holiday (Easter) and so the men of the church, including Kevin, put a fresh coat of paint on the walls at the center. He was learning a lot of Afrikaans. They were impressed. So dis my froe (pronounce "dis may fro") means this is my wife. That's the only one I can remember, though he knows more.
While he was hard at work the girls and I went with Yolanda and her two kids, Bianca and Stephen, to play. She took us to a playground near the beach. Lot's of fun. I have a little video but will have to post later. Yolanda reminds me of Kathy D. Always cleaning up! LOL. See I'm finding duplicates of you all here. I even saw a lady in the grocery store that looked like Silvia M! Just a little darker in skin tone!
On Tuesday a couple of the ladies from church came to clean the house (they wanted to) so it was a little weird. But the house wasn't really that dirty or messy - we've only been here just over a week!
While they were busy Evelyn took us to get a bank account but to no avail. Apparently there are some real issues here with foreigner's laundering money - opening funds for terrorist and so we will not be doing so. Pastor John said that by the time we gathered all the paperwork and stamps and notaries required we'd be heading home. But our ATM cards work fine here and we can use our credit card where allowed so...
When we got back the ladies were done so we had tea (a big thing here. I'm guessing from the British exposure) and then I learned to play Rubicube (I think that's how it's spelled). They play every Tuesday so I've been invited to join in the game which I may just do!
Pastor John and 10 other men are preparing to head to Mozambique (just north east of SA) It's a two days travel by car. He has a ministry called PET. These are wheelchair type bikes that are pedaled with the hands. It's for those who have lost legs during their twenty year war, landmines or leprosy. Hard to believe that there are still people suffering from this seemingly "Biblical" disease. But none-the-less there are. Thanks Heredes and Sarah for the translation! They're already to go. Apparently the Portuguese is very similar (Brazilian vs Portugal) so no problems. Anyway I'm here to take pictures for the web and brochure that I'm working on. Just one of the many ministries they do around here!
Yesterday we were home all day. They had a funeral to orate and then still preparations for the trip. Tiring day. They called later that night realizing they hadn't see us all day. Evelyn came for breakfast this morning - french toast. Dinner's on her tonight - shepherd's pie (not sure if will be as good as Jescel's, but we'll see).
Some things you might find interesting here in SA.

They have 11 official languages. Though I'm thinking English and Afrikaans are the most common.

It takes 8 men to pick up the trash with an automated garbage truck.

There are three men on horse-drawn carriages that prose the neighborhood for recyclables.

Its sweating hot during the day and freezing at night and sometimes the wind is so loud!!

Pastor John has the BEST sense of humor. Very dry like my Kevin..

Well I'm out of here. Things to do, but just wanted to keep you posted (no pun intended). See you soon. (Hey, if there's anything you want to know about our lives here, leave a post, send an email and I'll do what I can. Just be patient since we're not as connected as we use to be!)

He Is Risen!

2008-03-23T12:02:00.004-04:00

Happy Easter to all. Hope you're having a blessed day. We had a nice big lunch courtesy of Evelyn. I haven't eaten so good since we've been here. Reminded me of my aunt - cooked way too much food for the 10 people that were there to eat.

We're getting settled in fine. I just rearranged the house once more. I moved Kevin & I's bedroom to the front of the house, just across the hall from the girl's room. Emily has started sleeping in her room and the master bedroom is just too far down the hall for my liking. So I rearranged.

Here's us during our long wait in Heathrow. Just trying to keep busy while we wait for the plane. Of course we were at Gate 4 and when they finally posted our departure Gate it was number 25! The last Gate in the terminal. Took us about 15 minutes to walk there!

I know you want to see pictures of the house, but the dsl is kind of slow this end and it's taking a while for these pictures to upload. I'm working on a newsletter and will have pictures in that. So sorry, you must wait. But at least you'll be anxious to read the newsletter. :)

But just wanted to say a quick hello to everyone. We do have cellphones and if you can receive text messages send us your cell number (via email) and we'll send you a text. Love to all and thanks again for your prayers. Hopefully our telephone and dsl will be connect end of this week. It takes about 2 weeks once you put in an application for the service and this weekend is a holiday with Easter. Friday and Monday are non-working days. (Yes Joe, even the phone guys are off!)

Please continue to pray as we begin working on the lessons and activities for the FROG Center. Kevin will be in each school about 3 hours a day and then we'll have a 2-hour after-school program to plan for and facilitate. Continue to pray for the girls. They are doing well and finally calling it home, instead of "let's get on the airplane and go home." It's now "my room... my bed" So thank you.

Our next venture is a car. Please pray because this seems to be a more difficult endeavor than we thought. If we finance it's a 13% interest rate (so much for good credit!), if we buy outright we'll wipe out any savings that we do have (not to mention we just don't have that much cash on hand). We could lease, but then it will probably be about the same as financing. Plus we'll need to open a bank account locally to show proof of employment and income. So please pray for a solution to this problem. As you'll see in picture in the newsletter, child car seats are optional and right now anytime we go somewhere the girls are just in seat belts. A very scary thing when you're use to using car seats where they are nice and strapped in. I pray every time we get in the car!

Well gonna go now, getting late here (almost 6:30) and don't want to use the Pastor's computer for too long. Have a great week and hopefully next time I post will be from our own dsl.
XO

We're HERE!

2008-03-17T10:42:00.002-04:00

Just a quick hello. Yes we're here. Great flight. Still getting use to the time difference. Katie has adjusted the best. Poor Kevin's got a major sinus infection - off to the doctor tomorrow.

Will blog more with pics when we get connected. Borrowing Pastor John's computer to get some things situationed state-side but wanted to send a quick hi.

We're safe, still feeling a little home sick, still trying to get our shipment (2 more days and it should all be settled). So no toys, not a lot of clothes, not a lot of anything. But we're doing fine. Watching the 4 channels available to us at the moment.

Went grocery shopping today. Kids in tow -need I say more! Things are expensive here. A bottle of olive oil is R69 (about $9!) House is great. Very spacious lots of room for the girls, especially the hallway. USe the kitchen yesterday - very strange, but will get use to it.

Sorry I'm speaking in such short sentences, trying to get it all in. Weather's nice. Warm (though it was very cold when we arrived). Got to get use to the metric system. Okay, going to go for now. Hopefully within the next 2 weeks we'll have communication at the house. Bye for now!

Walking Out The Door!

2008-03-13T18:22:00.002-04:00

Bye everyone. See you soon via blogville. Had a cool thing plan but not able to get it done.
LOVE YA ALL!!!

Minus 1 Day

2008-03-12T20:12:00.006-04:00

Yep, tomorrow's our last day!! We're here at my parent's house for the evening. Thanks to Tati for coming by to help a little today. There was just so much to do. But let me recap the last few days.

As mentioned before we had our family picture taken (my whole family here). What chaos! With Katie's earache she cried almost the whole time and Emily just didn't want to cooperate AT ALL. But despite it all we did get a few good pictures in. Thank you Lord. Got a little work done and then off for our very last Joe steak. YUMMY!!! I could have eaten the whole cow! He's such a great chef as is Jescel, dessert, sides, salads. It was the nice meal I'd been craving for days! Thanks a million guys.

Sunday was church - our last day. It was a great service - a great message (as always). Pastor Igor prayed for us at the end of the service. It was really wonderful. The Dzubay's came over for lunch, then the Sam's came over for a little dessert, then a little more work, then bed.

Emily started having a fever Sunday evening. Oh no! But it was an off and on fever so we weren't sure what to do. Finally on Tuesday Kevin took her. It was a virus. But as of today she seems all better. Thank you again Lord.

Monday we were graced with a lovely meal from Marcy. A great tasting lasagna and wonderful, wonderful salad. And of course a great dessert by Jescel - chocolate wontons. Check out her food blog she'll post pictures as soon as I email them to her! More work

Tuesday my friend Kathy came over and really got my butt in gear. I got about 80 percent of what needed to be done done. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! Then once she left we continued the work. Up late, up early today. Still lots to do. We worked from about 7:30am to 5pm. But we're 99% done. Got to go back tomorrow morning to finish off just a few more things, run a few more errands and then that's it. Working till the last second! Of course we got our last "stop-by" from the Aguirres. It was hard to see them leave. John will be almost 8 when we get back!! EIGHT! Keep those pictures posted so we can see them grow (as we will do).

We had a great dinner made by my dad. The whole family came down to see us off. It was nice, then we had a family prayer. Very nice. So now I'm totally exhausted ready for a nice warm shower and bed. Up early to take my mom to work so we can have the car for the day.

So we'll be out of contact for the next several days until we get everything set up. They do have internet cafes I may be able to find one to just say "we're here". I'll blog a little tomorrow before we leave. Please pray for us, the flight and everything. We just got an email from Pastor John. They wouldn't release our boxes to him. They want to see our passports and visas. So we'll most likely be paying some sort of storage fee for a week and a half plus anything else they feel like. Pray that it's a easy ordeal!

Good morning, good evening and good night.

Prayer of a martyred Zimbabwe pastor

2008-03-08T22:55:00.003-05:00

"I'm part of the fellowship of the unashamed. I have the Holy Spirit power. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made- I'm a disciple of his. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, my future is secure. I'm finished and done with low living, sight walking, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, worldly talking, cheap giving, and dwarfed goals. I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or popularity. I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded. I now live by faith, lean in his presence, walk by patience, am uplifted by prayer, and I labor with power. My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way rough, my companions are few, my Guide reliable, my mission clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded, or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the enemy, pander at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity. I won't give up, shut up, let up, until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, preached up for the cause of Christ. I am a disciple of Jesus. I must go till he comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till he stops me. And, when he comes for his own, he will have no problem recognizing me. . . my banner will be clear"

Minus 5 Days

2008-03-08T08:22:00.003-05:00

Well another few days have passed and not without its adventure.

My friend Kathy came over on Thursday and really helped me get moving. We finished clearing out the kitchen (with the exception of a few items) and the bathroom. She's a true motivator, even with a headache! Thanks for helping me get it done when I'm losing my ambition!

That evening the real problem began. Katie started the evening off with a burning fever. How high? Don't know. I apparently have shipped all the thermometers! But I'm guessing about 102°. So every few hours I had to give her tylenol and throw her in the tub to cool off. Poor baby sitting in the bathtub at 2 in the morning. But it brought the fever down and she slept until the medication wore off.

In the morning I took her to the doctor. But alas, he is renewing his license and wouldn't be in the office until 1pm. But the one person in the office took her temp. for me and yes, it was over 102°. He recommended motrin which actually worked better. Once it kicked in she was like her old self, though a little slower.

Her sluggishness allowed me to get a ton of work done. Cleared out almost the entire garage and nothing is left on the walls so...

I know - what's wrong with Katie?

She's got an ear infection! Yes about to get on a plane for 22 hours with a child who's got an ear infection! I'm praying (and ask that you do too) that it heals quickly. I think I caught it early because the doctor saw it, but wasn't sure it was what he was seeing. He did a blood test and her white cell count was very high confirming that yes, it is an ear infection. She's on antibiotic for 10 days - she'll have taken the meds for 7 days when we leave.

I ended up falling asleep with the girls at about 9pm. Good thing because Katie was up several more times, but no fever at least. Ended up giving her a little motrin though cause she tossed and turned. My very wise husband noted that though she had no fever, she still could be in pain and discomfort. So at 6:30am she got another dose. Slept till almost 8! That's late for Katie.

So today we're having a family portrait done of everyone for my grandmother's 80th birthday. Her birthday is in July but since we're leaving we're doing it now. I'm hoping all goes well especially for miss Katie. So while I'm sitting here blogging I should be ironing so I'll say goodbye for now.

Oh, our boxes arrived in Cape Town yesterday. Got an email from Pastor John so yea!

Minus 8 Days

2008-03-05T22:25:00.004-05:00

More good days. If you've notice our support went up a little more. God is providing (of course). So what have we been doing these last few days?

Yesterday we had lunch courtesy of Maria & Pepe. Delicious as always. Kevin wasn't too hungry but ate a little anyway. "Wish I could have eaten more it was delicious!" Don't worry I didn't eat breakfast just so I'd have lots of room, because I know Maria can cook!

Anyway, we had a very nice lunch and Pastor Milton came and shared some of the Word with us. It was so amazing, we actually got goose-bumps. It was if God was speaking right to us. Pastor Milton found just the right verses, encouraged us and the lunch ended with prayer. It was great! More encouragement from the Lord through His people.

Kevin had a doctor's appointment so I took the girls to the park and library, about an hour all together. Then we picked up daddy and we were off for a few more errands and the like.

That evening Jescel came by so Kevin and I could get SOME work done. She's so good with the girls and they love playing with her. Plus it allowed us to get some things moved around and start storing, throwing and donating. If there's something you are looking for or want to do a little free shopping in our garage, let me know! Rather give it to a brother or sister than toss it away!

Anyway, thanks a million Jescel. We super appreciate that you gave up Idol for us. Hope you got to see the recap. :)

Wednes (today). Kevin took the car to CarMax for an appraisal. They gave us a GREAT offer. We were impressed. Then the lovely Tati came by early to help me get my butt in gear. We cleared out almost the entire kitchen. Just food and a few items left. She even packed them into the once toybox. She's amazing for sure!! Thanks Tati.

Then we got a sudden invite to the Aguirres for some food, fun and fellowship. (which was God's perfect provision since we don't have much in the way of food in the house) Love hanging with the Aguirres. Though I think we stayed a little too long (8pm) they all looked exhausted. But, like I said, love hanging with the Aguirres.

So just eight days left. It still doesn't seem real. I know it's happening, but I guess I'm so busy with getting things done that I haven't thought about it too much. With all the hussle of getting everything in order, making decisions about things and just getting things done, plus the girls and normal day to day stuff who has time to think? That's why I keep a list of what I have to do, I'd go crazy if I didn't!!!

Have a great evening and leave a comment so we know you came by to see what we've been up to.

Minus 10 Days

2008-03-03T19:03:00.004-05:00

Much has happened in just two days. Many blessings, a few tears, a lot of laughter, and a bit of stress!

First things, first. Sunday evening there was a little party in our honor, with many wishes of blessings. A few stories and of course some tears. It was so humbling to hear how we have impacted lives when we didn't realize it. It was an even greater blessing to hear how you believe and are proud of the work we will be doing in SA. It was very touching, but another source of encouragement for us as well. We're sorry for those who weren't able to come - you were missed.

As we said, we will miss all of you so much. Here are a few pictures from our camera. I hate myself in pictures, but love everyone else!!! Those of you who took more, please send them my way...

Next thing - OUR VISAS CAME!!!! Yea!!! This was my worry. Did I send everything they needed, would they get here before we left?? Well they're here! So there's nothing else standing in our way of going. Just need to get the house all situated now. That's this week's agenda along with a few other items, like selling the Honda.

Finally we received a report from Vicki at FRC! We went from only having about 14% raised to 73%!!! PRAISE GOD! Thank you so much for those of you who are sharing in this ministry with us. We are so blessed that you are willing to give of yourselves and your finances that will allow us to minister to the people of Mitchells Plain and care for our family.

We have a very busy week - especially tomorrow - Tues. We have a lunch date with some friends from our old church who want to have a little something for us. Then Kevin has a DR's appointment. We have to get to the bank (I had to order checks and they are completely wrong! - First time in forever!!), I have to mail some items I sold on Ebay, and we have to get the car really, really clean. We're taking it to CarMax for an estimate for purchase. Pray we get a good deal (that's Wednesday). Friday Kevin has another appointment and I need to get things done. So yes, I could be doing those things instead of sitting here blogging. But I figure I'll be up to about 2am as I've been on several night now. Just easier to get things done with no one around to distract me.

Thanks for checking in. God bless!

Minus 13 Days

2008-02-29T22:33:00.005-05:00

Yep, just 13 days left!!! And the fun never ends!

We got our stuff off to SA, but of course it wasn't as easy as that. I was told by BA to go to a specific shipper near the airport. Well we go and we get a dumb look.
guy: "We are a trucking company!"
me: "They told us to bring it here. See the email 'take shipment to' and this is your address, phone number, etc"
guy: "But we don't send things to Cape Town"
me: "Please call this guy. He told me to give you this account number and you would weigh our boxes and ship these for us."
guy: "But we don't go to Cape Town"
me: "Please just call this guy"
guy: "Okay"
He heads off to his little office to call. Comes back a few minutes later…
guy: "Okay, fill out this paper" (it's a shipping document).
I fill it out. He heads back into his office to call BA again.
A few minutes later he comes back with shipping labels for me to put on the boxes and tells me to wait outside the "reception" office for a forklift guy to come and retrieve the boxes, weigh them and give me the info.
me: "Can I have my paperwork back?"
guy: "No"
me: "How do I pay?" (Good thing I'm an honest person!)
guy: "Contact BA."

Now mind you I'm in a room full of truck drivers - very nice by the way - and Kevin and the girls. Of course Emily starts to wander around. I grab her and hold her. She starts crying and screaming "let me down". I tell her no!, you have to stay here with us. "Please, just make me happy" This makes the whole room bust out in laughter - which helped. So while I waited for the above conversation, Kevin took the girls out to the car for some snack and videos.

After the paperwork fiasco was figured out, I only waited maybe another 10 minutes for the forklift guy - thanks to my hubby intervening. So the boxes were weighed - more than what I had estimated, but less than we thought but off they went. So I got home after 2 hours (including driving time) and called BA to figure everything out. Boxes are headed to Toronto (I'm guessing this is BAs Baggage Service headquarters), then to London, then finally to Cape Town.

But that's not the end of the story. After I fax the BA office with our payment and a copy of the only document the shipper gave me (the airbill) I get a fax back from BA confirming our document number with the final price – $3,000!!!!!!!! I almost had a heart attack. My heart literately began to race. So I called the BA office back. "No, no, that's just for tariff purposes, you're cost is as quoted ($1350)." Okay, but it did take me a while to relax.

So another step in the process out of the way, but not without its drama!

Oh, but the day isn't over. What could happen next? Well I had to run to WG to pick up some pictures. Since there were a few errands to run, the whole gang piled into the car once again. As we're heading to WG, Emily needs to go. So we park, but of course Katie is asleep, so I take Emily in, while Kevin stays with sleeping beauty. All goes well, then I stop at the Photo desk to pick up my pictures. Well here's where the fun begins.

I sat Emily on the counter whilst I fetched the money out of my wallet. On the counter was an alarm clock with a robot head. Emily was playing with it a little and asked what it was. Being a nice man, the guy who was ringing me up told her it's a robot. This makes Emily a little frightened because as he attempts to demonstrate, she's wiggling to get down. So I take her down and stand her next to me. "Oh, it's not plugged in" and the guy goes to plug it in so he can show her how it works. Well next thing I know Emily says "I've got to get out of here" and goes running out the store!!!!! I mean it was like a movie. One minute she's right next to me, the next she's clear across the store and out the door. Unfortunately WG has automatic doors so as soon as she was close enough the door opened. I had to leave my cash and wallet sitting on the counter as I ran to save my daughter from herself. She was outside that door for about 3 seconds before I could get to her! I think that the door opening by itself stopped her in her tracks. So of course, I grabbed her and took her back in kicking and screaming (she's not always like this) and finished my transaction. Now I don't know if you can imagine the scene, but it was very funny. I had to contain my hysteria so that I could discipline her for her actions. But even know I'm laughing. It was like a movie.

If any of you watch the series "Psych" (or if you don't) here's a clip from an episode that demonstrates Emily's run from the robot. It's the part where they approach the car...

Good night all. Much work still to be done and once again I'm the only one awake!
XO

Packing

2008-02-28T00:09:00.005-05:00

We're in the packing stage of our move. Packing those things that will be shipped to SA. (Don't worry Jescel we're not done wrapping them in tape. But I HAD to get started packing.) So we laid out one weeks worth of clothes to just take on the airplane with us. So if you see us wearing the same thing it's because that's all we have left in the house to wear! Of course I didn't keep any warm clothes out and it's cold! Luckily it's not going to last. First time I am anxious for the warmer weather! :P

We actually had two boxes packed and then unpacked them to sort through the clothes again. Yes we had sorted through our clothes, then sorted when we packed and then unpacked and sort through them again!

So today (Thurs - it's after midnight so it's officially Thurs!) is our last day to get everything finalized and then it's a drive to the airport area to send it off. I think it's going to be more than we estimated. We're taking clothes (which is about two boxes), toys, a few books for Kevin to use as a jumping point for lessons. Plus computer items, a few personal items like photos, kid's books, etc.

Just two more weeks until we leave! Every time I think about it I get butterflies in my stomach. It still doesn't see like it's really happening. We've decided the last week (mon-thurs) we'll be at my parent's house in homestead. Since the house will be empty and packed away there won't be much use in hanging out. I'll probably use those days to do some hard core cleaning.

Well that's it for now. It's after midnight and I'm the only one still up. Don't worry it's not just to blog. Doing laundry and dishes (well the dishwasher is doing that!) and other items. But had a few to sit and type so..

Have a great day, evening, morning as it may be and we'll speak soon! And thank you Tati for volunteering your time to watch the girls - you are a blessing!

Thank You God

2008-02-25T23:10:00.004-05:00

Okay, it's best if you read this next blog really, really fast. So read it once to get the flow and then read it again really, really fast, cause that's how I'm writing it (saying it in my head). Ready? GO…

Okay, so we've got about 19 days to go and our visas take about 10 BUSINESS days to get - meaning you can't count weekends - so I emailed the embassy to confirm that I was sending everything they needed to get our visas with no issues - but I got no reply - so I emailed again, still no reply, but like I need to get this to them if we're going to get the visas BEFORE we leave - so I go to kinkos to photocopy all the paperwork and since they are Fedex I went ahead and "mailed" the package - of course this morning I got a reply and yes I had all the paperwork, BUT I had to also include our passports, 2 photos of each of us, plus a letter from the church (since we're not with a sending U.S. organization).

BREATH. GO!

So I get really frustrated, call kinkos. No the package hasn't gone out - not until 6:30pm - yes I can pick it up. SOOOO I call and email poor VIcki at FRC to ask her to fax me letter to send to the embassy (thanks Vicki!!) and we dash off to kinkos to pick up the FedEx pack, then off to CVS to get passport sized photos (2 for each of us) then back to the house to get the fax, then back to kinkos to Fedex the package. And yes, of course, the package with the additional items made the cost TWICE the amount of the original package from $26 to $40!

BREATH. GO!

So it's gone and thank you God that the package hadn't gone out, that we were able to get the other items required and it should be in their hands tomorrow (Tues) morning unless there's a major snow storm and no FedEx packs go out like when we sent the check for our tickets!!!

Thanks for checking in. Oh, yeah, breath.

And thanks Tamoldi family for checking in - we're praying for you!

Getting Closer

2008-02-23T23:21:00.003-05:00

Got the cashier's check for the embassy. Will be mailing out our visa paperwork on Monday. Please pray that I have provided all the information they need. With less than 20 days left (!) we can't really afford any hiccups now.

Kevin has left AT&T. I asked him how it felt to be unemployed, "surreal". So this week will be jam packed with packing everything we'll be shipping. Our deadline is Friday to get everything to the shipping company. If all goes as plans our things will get there a week before we do - which means we will be two weeks here with most of our things gone. Once that hurdle has been jumped we will start moving things to the one room for storage.

We're still debating about another garage sale. Neither of us wants to be bothered with it, but the extra $ would be useful. We probably won't since neither Kevin or I are interested or motivated to do another one. In the 14 years we've been married this was our first ever garage sale so it's not something we are excited about.

We ARE looking forward to the many invitations we've received for dinners and get-togethers. It's heartwarming that so many want to spend time with us before we leave.

I was emailing Jescel the other day when it really started to hit me that I (we) will be leaving not just family, but so many friends. Though we may not see each of you often, sometimes a week, sometimes several weeks, it's comforting to know that you're only a phone call away - a short drive away. Now we will be separated by many, many miles. As Prof. Higgins in My Fair Lady says "I've grown accustom to [your] face[s]." We WILL miss you all, for you all mean so very much to us. New friends, old friends, long distance friends, around the corner friends - friends to laugh with, friends to share experiences with, friends to vent with …

But we're excited to share this experience with you, even if it's via blogs, emails, and the occasional newsletter. So I will say good night for now (it's 11:30pm) and again thank you for your prayers, support and just sharing in our adventure!

(PS) Sign up for our Email alert and you'll get an email every time a new messages is posted! See top left. Thanks

Another Update

2008-02-17T13:26:00.000-05:00

I think these updates will be more frequent as it gets closer to our leaving date. Here's what's happened since our last update.

We got our medical insurance. Was a little bit more than originally expected, but when you break it down monthly, it's less than $300 a month. They sent us our certificate for the visas so that's the next item. I will be reviewing the list of paperwork needed and will hopefully be sending that out by the end of this week.
I was checking my calendar this morning and by next Friday - the 29th - we'll need to ship our boxes out. It's starting to go fast!

This weekend we had our own garage sale. Thanks bunches and bunches to Joe & Jescel for coming out and helping us sell and my Aunt Tobe and cousin Stacey for borrowing your home and helping out. We'd also like to thank the many of you who donated items for us to sell - Vicky & David, Tobe, Bob & Sherry Brod - Melinda & K.C. - and my parents, Billie & Wayne. Your added items made for a very successful day. We raised about half of the funds we need to ship our stuff so a million thanks!

We were also privileged enough to be asked to speak at Christ Fellowship this evening. This church is very active with the FROG Center and some of the other ministries in South Africa. They have been very gracious to our mission and very supportive of this move. Thanks to Carey & Doris Miller and Linda & John Reed for allowing us to speak to the church and share about the work we'll be doing in South Africa.

We felt so encouraged and empowered by their prayers and words. We went not really knowing what to expect, but we left just so overwhelmed by the love and again, the encouragement. That's all we talked about on the way home - how encouraged we felt. It was a true blessing for us. Again a big thanks to Joe & Jescel for watching the girls. They were both out by 9:30!

So the days grow shorter and shorter for our departure. We both have our ups and downs and the Lord is good because I'm up when Kevin is down and visa versa so we can encourage one another with God's words. We know that He will provide, He will protect and He will produce (as noted by Carey) and we are more and more empowered that we ARE doing His will. We ARE doing the thing that He wants of us.

In the service at FRC, Pastor Troy spoke about money - I know something no pastor likes to discuss and no parishioner wants to hear - but it spoke to me different. As in the previous blog I mentioned how much things are costing us. But Pastor Troy's words showed me that He will supply our needs. We are giving - we are adhering to the nudge - and He will bless, He will supply, He will not let us go hungry. God will take care of all our needs and despite the money we are spending; He will bless us for our faithfulness, for trusting Him enough to follow His lead!

Thanks for checking in and stay tuned - it's going to be a whirlwind 3 weeks!

Update

2008-02-10T22:27:00.000-05:00

Hello all. Well several things have happened so here's an update.

We got our tickets - departure date is March 13th. We fly Miami to London - London to Cape Town, 22 hours air time, 6 hour overlay in London. We arrive March 15th 6am!
Trying and trying to order our Medical Insurance. Will have to call. Told to do it online, but after filling out the application twice, I'm getting an error that the insurance is unavailable in FL, which is funny since we're only opting for out of country insurance, so what does it matter if we live in FL, we won't be covered here!!!???
Still trying to pack up the house to sell, to store, to give away, to trash. Made some progress yesterday, but kids want attention (which of course..) so interruptions are slowing us down. (If anyone wishes to help, you can volunteer an hour or so to watch the kids so I or Kevin and I can sort things without distraction, would be a major major help!).
FRC is helping with the pledges and support, see right side bar for info...
This is becoming a very expensive venture. I don't like talking dollars and cents but I have been asked several times if the church (in SA) or anyone was helping us. The answer is no, we are paying everything ourselves. (I'm hoping our accountant will tell us it's deductible for our 2008 taxes!) We're closing out saving accounts, using money for the things we've sold (which has not been anything actually sold yet - two things pending possible 3). So here's the lowdown.

Airfare: $3987 (one way - now you know why we won't be returning till our 3 years is over. and this rate is with a humanitarian fare!)
Medical Insurance: $3350 (this is for one year, not too bad but still funds we have to put out up-front)
Repatriation Fee to SA Embassy: $2400 (this is to insure we have funds available to leave the country. We can't use the excuse that we can't leave cause we got no moola.)
Application Fee to SA Embassy: $300 (to process our visas)
Shipping: $1100 (about. this if for 250lbs. we'll be shipping clothes, toys, a few books, pictures, only essentials and very personal items)
Misc.: $300 (ads to sell items and garage sale, boxes to ship in, fee for police record report, doctor's fee for medical records, etc)

So there you have it. That's about $12,000 to get to South Africa!!!! Wow, I hadn't added it up till just now!!! Wow!!!

So that's it I guess. Oh, I found this site that gave a map. It's not the best, but gives you some idea of where we'll be (click for a larger view). Thanks for your continued prayer and support. We are truly blessed by how God has provided and called us to do this work. We are still humbled by it all. And we are freaked out! Only 4 1/2 weeks till we leave. Seems so unreal still. We're still living our day-to-day lives but we have this whole other life of getting ready to leave happening! It's like a parallel universe!

Aaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!

2008-02-01T15:27:00.000-05:00

As I said in the previous post I had to FedEx the check for our airline tickets. But it did not arrive!!!!!!!!! It was headed to Chicago and they had a severe snow storm - so no packages went out!!! They won't get it till Monday too late to purchase the tickets!!!! AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!

Okay, no worries. The agency we're working with is going to go ahead and purchase the tickets on good faith. If they don't get the package on Monday I'll have to pay with a credit card which includes a 4% credit card fee, plus the cost of having the check cancelled!!! I'm trusting in the Lord, He will provide, but man if we keep having to spend more money than we already need to we'll only be eating Mac and Cheese the next month! (No, I'm exaggerating, a bit).

Please pray that everything works out. This is complete craziness. You think something as simple as sending a package, but nooooo it had to snow. SNOW! What, do they think it's like winter time or something?!
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!

One down, many to go

2008-01-31T22:55:00.000-05:00

Well I FedEx'ed the check for our tickets. Will be calling to confirm the transaction and that's that! March 13th is departure date. Just about 6 weeks to go. Now to purchase the medical insurance and then our visas.
We still need to pack. That's been hard to decide what to do. I don't want to be living in an empty house for 6 weeks but I hate waiting until the last minute to do things. I'll just have to set a date and not worry about it till then!
To date we have 4% of our funds raised. Not bad considering it's only been a week. We know God will provide!!! So that's it so far. I think things will begin to move a lot faster in the next few weeks (as expected) so thank you for your continued prayers. I am still in humbled awe that God has chosen us to do His work in SA. It's still seems unreal that we're heading down there. I'm still excited. I think maybe once I'm on the plane with all the paperwork and preparing behind me I'll freak out a little. I know it will be too late then, but I'll need to do it sooner or later! :P
God bless

Making Strides

2008-01-25T22:31:00.000-05:00

Well we leave in roughly 7 weeks. We've had much happen. FRC will be helping with the financial aspects of our support. So anyone helping out in that way will be able to get a tax break, plus have the confidence that they are sending money to an established church.

We will be purchasing our tickets and medical insurance this coming Monday. Though we have just mailed out our packets with all the information regarding what we'll be doing and how to support the mission work, we are trusting the Lord to meet our needs. If not, well we'll be back sooner than we thought! :)

We have sold the Xterra, rented the house, tickets and insurance to come in the next three days. Then apply for our visas. We still need to sell the Honda, find our puppy a new loving home, and our garage sale. We've decided Feb 16, same as FRC's and we'll be giving a portion of the money we earn towards the ACS as FRC will be doing. Kevin has been invited to speak in three churches to promote our work at the FROG center. The third being his hometown church in NJ. He's excited but not sure what he'll do. If he decides to do so he'll be making a trek to NJ alone. Its just too much money and too much for the girls to travel for a few days and then again in a few weeks. Plus there's just much to do to take a vacation...

So that's all about now. Just wanted to post and update since it's been a while. Thanks for checking in and we'll let you know when things progress. If you have any questions or want to know more, leave a comment or email us (see top right of this blog). God bless.

You Will Have Troubles

2008-01-15T18:11:00.000-05:00

Well you will! While everything is going quite smoothly as we prepare to leave for SA, we are hitting some bumps in general life. I would be worried is nothing bad was happening, and the Lord has been good in that it has not been anything major-major. So how are things going and what are our troubles? Read on.

Good news first.

We have renters! They are a couple we have been pursuing since the beginning. The Lord truly worked this out since they are currently renting until Sept. But their landlord is letting them out with no problems! With that we will not have to find storage since we'll be using one of the rooms here to store the few belongings we are keeping. Larger furniture will be left to be used.

We have an account. FRC has set up a fund for us so contributions to our work will go via the church, allowing supporters to get the tax benefit, plus the security that we're not kooks (not that we are!).

We found shipping. British Airways actually has a very reasonable rate and the boxes can be shipped ahead and picked up at the airport. So our plan is to only have 3 carry on bags for the entire trip!! Talk about easy traveling.

We found insurance. The medical insurance is specifically for long-term missionaries. It's a bit expensive (about $350/mth) but it pays 100% of any bills we incur after our deductible. We have to wait to apply within 30 days of our departure. Which stinks since I like to get things done early.

We've got a buyer for the Xterra. Hopefully all will work out, their mechanic will give it the thumbs up.

Now the trouble.

As we prepare to go, finances is really a big issue. Everything costs. Shipping, permits, insurance, ads to sell things so this is where satan is getting us.

Kevin took the Xterra to get basic service done - that ended up costing a lot more than the $200 we thought it would.

Kevin went to the eye doctor for a general check up - ended up needing glasses. Let's just say when they said $700 we freaked. We did get it down, but not by much.

Two toilets have needed basic replacement water thingies

One toilet need the plunger replaced but is still leaking water every 23 seconds (yes I counted!)

The garbage disposal stopped working today (but I think I can fix it)

There are two bathroom sinks that need to be replaced (the paint chipped off)

This is just within the last 10 days! Not to mention our very handy pastor, Derwin, came over to replace our main water valve which broke on us a few weeks ago.

So it's good news all around I guess. Like I said if we weren't experience any problems I'd be worried. But I rejoice that the Lord is making all the preparation go smoothly and that satan is upset that he's making trouble!

Please continue to pray for us. While these are little annoyances, I'm sure more is to come. But we know that the Lord is our provider and protector and He won't allow anything we can't handle. We'll be sending our updated newsletter out shortly - hopefully Tues (since no mail on Monday) so look for yours. Thanks again to all of you who have encouraged us, prayed for us, have already thrown in your support and, just helped out when we've needed it.

Our Dog Bell

2008-01-08T18:11:00.000-05:00

One of the many sad things we must face as we head to the mission field is that we must leave our dog Bell behind. We must find her a home, which I have been reluctant to pursue. But it must be done. So I'm posting info and if you know someone who will love her like the princess she once was before our children came along we would be most grateful!

We adopted Bell from the Humane Society in Dec 2001. She was one of three puppies (4 months old). We chose her for two reasons, one: she was a girl, two: she was calm. As her two brothers pounced and jumped and played, she laid there calm, cool, and collected. And she is pretty much still that calm dog. She can be rambunctious and playful, but 80% of the time she's calm. She does bark if someone enters the property, at cats and other dogs. She barks if the door is knocked on. She rarely barks at night no matter what she sees.

Bell is part Chow (has a few spots on her tongue) and parts of others unknown. We think some german shepherd or collie, but unsure. She looks like a fox (that's a comment we hear alot, even from little kids!) She's small to medium (about 30lbs). We have kept up all her shots and such. Her current vet is Dr. Gilley in Homestead. He's an awesome vet and I'd drive an hour to take my pet to him - but that's your decision. She gets heart worm med once a month for preventative measures, plus we use the front line on her once every 3 months. She's an inside dog and won't do to well if left outside - though she'll spend a short time soaking in the sun. She likes to go for walks and ride in the car. (this sounds like a dating blog! LOL)

She does not get along with other dogs, so she'll have to be the one and only. She chases cats, bugs and is a pretty good fly catcher. She knows how to sit, stay, get down, leave it, come, and go lay down (get out of the area). She can be off the leash and will come with a whistle. She gives paw and will do this if she especially wants to go out. She'll also give you the stare down if she wants to go out - but the paw means she's serious. She'll do this in the middle of the night if she needs to go out. She is house broken. We do walk her once at night. But she also does her business in the yard.

She's a snuggly dog and will sit with you on the couch or snuggle in bed, especially when it's cold. She'll lay at your feet or next to your head. Before kids this was allowed, now she either sleeps at the foot of the bed or in her own bed. She's good with kids, but they can't be too aggressive towards her. She will play, but needs her space. (Boy she is a spoiled dog!)

In the summer we have her groomed about every 2 months to keep her fur short because of the heat. These pictures were just taken and so we've let it grow for our supposed winter.

She is free to a loving home with all her odds and ends like bowls, toys, leash, food and storage, and other goodies. We would be willing to take her back once we get home, but I'm sure you'll (or your friend) will fall in love and not want to give her up.

Now you know why this is hard. We love this little dog and want her to be in a loving home that will take good care of her. I know, I know, she's a dog, but you know...

S & M

2008-01-04T09:30:00.000-05:00

Okay, now that I have your attention clean out that brain. Shipping and Medical insurance. Both are proving to be difficult to find a decent price. We contacted IMB yesterday and they were helpful so will be following their suggestions in the next week. But trying to ship things overseas is proving to be an expensive venture. The cheapest we've found so far is $2,000, just to ship about 5 boxes of stuff! I even got a quote for $3500 from one place. For that I could pay and extra $1,000 and have the car shipped over!!!

Medical insurance is a whole new realm. You have to find insurance that specializes in overseas coverage. If you use a "regular" insurance plan they only pay 60% because you'll be out of network, plus there's a $2.000 deductible - each, and you have to pay a monthly fee. Would be cheaper to go without. However for our permit application, we have to show insurance. Again, we will look into the company that IMB uses. Our brief investigation reveals about $400 a month. WOW! We have been spoiled. With Kevin's company we don't pay a dime for health insurance. Just our co-payments.

So once we get these two issues settled I think things will move along much easier. We are still waiting decisions to be made regarding where you can send your financial support. That's our biggest obsticle right now. Once any kind of decision has been made we'll be able to move forward.

We have a reservation for our flight for March 13- we must pay by Feb 1st - that's about $3,800. Way cheaper than I was finding at $5,000. Found a company that helps missionaries get to where they are going with a Humanitarian Fare. Plus we'll still need to send $2,400 to the SA consulant for our Repatriation fee.

We'll be having our yard sale on Sat. Feb 9th. It will be at my aunt's house since she has a bigger front yard and more parking. We'll keep you informed. So mark it on your calendar. We might have it on the following Saturday as well if we don't get rid of most things.

Thanks for stopping by and thanks for your continued prayers. Though it's been difficult, things are moving smoothly - an oxymoron I know, but just when we think we're not going to be able to find out or get what needs getting, the Lord provides! It's amazing to see Him so actively working with us in the process - it just reconfirms to us that we're doing the right thing. That we're doing what He's asking of us and so, of course, he's opening all the doors and providing all the information and help that we need. Like Vicky mentioned on her blog - how do people get along in life with out God???

God is in the details

2007-12-27T22:31:00.000-05:00

Yes, it is truly amazing to see how God is working out all the little details. I just wanted to publicly praise Him. I was doing a little praying earlier and just realized the long list of things that have just smoothly worked themselves out or situations that have improved with sudden, unexpected information.

It just further confirms that we are in His will. That this is what He wants of us at this time. And thus I KNOW that everything will work out, selling off stuff, gathering needed funds and paperwork, support, everything. How comforting to know that He is orchestrating all of this just for little old us. Just two people who's prayer has always been to serve Him and be used of Him. Two people who have said, "Here am I Lord" and He has replied and thus provided! He truly is an awesome God!!!

On the Waiting List

2007-12-26T22:39:00.000-05:00

Nothing too new to report. With the holiday everything has come to a slight stand still. One good thing is I found a company that specializes in missionary travel - there's a humanitarian fare that will reduce our travel fees by about $1,200! So yea!! Still means about $3,800, but better than $5,000!!!

Please continue to pray that things go smoothly. The Lord has really been working. Even little things have been working out. We are truly seeing God's handy work. It's amazing!

I do still get a little nervous when I think about it too much. Especially at night when all is quiet. I think, "I won't be sleeping in this bed, in this house in just a couple of months." It's a surreal feeling. You have to live now, but you have to think ahead, start getting rid of things, getting things worked out. I'm afraid to start too early (which is my habit) because I don't want the kids to freak out that the house is getting empty or that some of their toys are missing - but I need to get things going here. I'm hoping with the newest Christmas toys to distract them away from toys that will be shipped, and toys that will disappear forever.

Keep the girls in your prayers as well. It's a lot of transition for them. I know they'll be fine. I've already told Emily we're moving to a new house. "We're going to move to a new Emi's house, I say. "No, this is Emi's house" is her reply. Too cute.

Hope everyone has a great Christmas, and praying that everyone's new year is full of adventure (the good kind!).

All that paperwork

2007-12-17T19:48:00.000-05:00

Well, things are sort of moving along. The few emails I had out have returned. Pastor John as sent me info about the cost of living down there. For all you techs out there its about $100 a month for DSL, plus additional costs for any local calls we make - ouch! I have to verify with him as well cause he said auto insurance is like $400 a month - we don't even pay that here, so I will be sending an email to verify that info.

I also got my responses from the SA Consult in Washington. We have to deposit a Repatriation Fee at $800/person. This is so they know we have money to leave the country in 3 years. This is in addition to processing fees and other paperwork we have to collect to submit, like criminal records, medical paperwork, etc. Who knew going to another country involved so much documentation. But it does make sense - they want to make sure they're not allowing some crazy criminal into their country who won't be able to leave! (I wonder if the USA does this?)

Please continue to pray for us, especially me as I gather, collect, and process all the stuff we need. Again I just want to praise the Lord on how He is using all of you to help us and making this easier. Just this week Jescel told me she knows of a travel agent that specializes in helping missionaries, David knew how to get the criminal background check (only $10 per person! - a cheap expense finally), and the consultant has been very helpful with my several emails. Now if anyone knows how to get good international health insurance we'll be in a better position!!! So again praise God and blessings on you as you continue to be used by Him to help us serve Him. (That's a mouthful).

Away We Go

2007-12-08T18:41:00.000-05:00

We finally got an email from Pastor John. He has extended a call to us to go and serve in South Africa! I think right now I'm numb. Waiting so long, I think I was prepared for a no and now that it's a yes I don't know how I feel about it. Kevin is excited of course. I guess I just really never believed it would be us. I was so excited in the beginning, but as time went on I found myself less excited. Maybe it was just the frustration of waiting. I'm sure as it sinks in, things will pick up for me.

Now the real rush begins. Getting everything in order, visas, what to do with our stuff, our dog, our home. We'll need to raise funds (so look for your support letter soon :)). So if you know anyone who needs some stuff send them our way. We'll be selling off most of our stuff - cars, furniture, etc. Let the bidding war begin over our 42" plasma, not even a year old yet!

Thanks for all your prayers and we hope you will continue to do so as we prepare to leave. Pray for the kids. Though they are little I'm most concerned about the plane ride (22 hours) and Emily who is very much a creature of habit and this will throw her off completely. We know that this is God's will, it's what we've prayed for all along, to be in His will. so we know all will work out fine, but it's still a big transition.

We'll keep you up-to-date on the progress of everything. While Pastor John wants us there by Feb, I think it will be more like mid-March, but we'll see how God works. We'll get there on His timing.

What's it all about

2007-11-16T18:53:00.000-05:00

The FROG (Fully Rely On God) center, completed in 2002, is located specifically in Mitchells Plain, a township of Cape Town. It ministers to the local community, which is predominantly Muslim (only 2% of the whole country is Muslim, so...). They have a daycare, a newly started baseball team, they feed about 200 people twice a week (Tues & Thurs), hold a Senior's Health Clinic on a monthly basis plus additional odds and ends. The center is rented out to the local community for weddings, funerals and other churches for their events. While it is a Christian center, the local Muslims are very open and friendly towards the center allowing the church to indirectly minister to the people. When the group comes to run VBS - the parent's know it's a Christian program, yet they still send their children so it's a great opening to sharing God's love and His word with a group that may otherwise not even consider such things. In Sept/Oct of 2007, over 1,000 students attended VBS!

Our job will first be to better organize what is already happening at the center and then adding on to it to further minister to the kids, to follow up on events that occur with the mission teams that come down and other things. For example, when the group comes to run the VBS Program, there is no one to follow up on those kids who have made a decision for Christ.

Since there is openness to the gospel in the local schools, there are four area schools that Kevin would be spending his mornings at (1 school per day) doing a bible study and other activities. I will probably be spending most of my time between the actual center and home. We figure I will do the administrative and Kevin will do the ministry work, though I'm sure some things will overlap.

Also, Pastor John said that right now there are just a few students organizing their student ministry, but it's more social than anything else, no preaching, etc. So we will most likely be heading the student ministry at the church. So our Mon-Fri will be very busy.

They just finished building a house and totally furnishing it so we have somewhere to live (just 2 houses down from Pastor & Evelyn). When I say fully furnished I mean right down to the silverware. So we won't have to take anything with us but linens, clothes, toys and other personal things we can't live without. This means we'll probably be renting a storage unit for those things we don't want to get rid of in case we come back.

We will need to raise our own support for a minimum of 3 years - that's the commitment they are looking for. We will probably rent out our house, cause selling it would probably be impossible, plus this will give us something to come back to should we only be gone 3 years. We will probably sell our vehicles and all our other items we don't want to keep (mostly everything) so we'll keep you informed when the mega yard sale will be held.

A few other items of interest. Homeschooling is legal, so I will probably still do that. Healthcare is socialized, but they have private doctors as well. Cape Town is in the Western Cape Province and is not only the capital of the Western Cape, but of South Africa's legislative branch. South Africa is a country on the continent of Africa, like the US is a country on the continent of North America. SA is divided into 9 Providences, like we have 50 states. Each providence has its own government and self rule but must adhere to the overall country's laws - like we have a state government and a federal government. SA is very modern, especially in the Western Cape, other than being in another country its looks like any other city you've seen. They speak English (British) and Afrikaans - a german/dutch language and since English is a Germatic language things are very similar. School is Skool, Fish is Vis, and then of course there are words that are very different.

If you want to know more about the country, here are a few links:

General Information

Afrikaans translator

Country Stats

Mitchells Plain

I found a website from a group in NC that has gone to SA about 8 times. This link will show you the finished Center as they finished building it. Click here.

This link shows the complete Center, just about 7 months before our first trip down there. Click here

Hope you enjoy the links, espeically the last two with pictures. Please pray for the Lord's will. While we're excited that we may be going, our prayer is that God's will be done and if one of the other couples is better suited to the task than so be it. But of course we hope it's us!