Valley of the Mountains

Around the house

2011-01-27T18:15:00.000-08:00

Caleb with another American boy that lives here and our helpers sons that get to come when they have a holy day at school. Caleb still wears his overalls and work boots just about everyday even though he is far away from the South.

Tea time on the roof. The kids got me this tea set for Christmas and Anna is making full use of it being the hostess to friends from America that live here also.

The kids playing a game in our living room. Notice all the Nepali signs for our language class.

Some of our neighbor kids. They live the next house over. They climb their wall most afternoons to play with us.

I just had to get this shot. Sunning to get warm. And I think a little tired from a day of play.

Looking down from the roof. Caleb wants to get up there first thing every morning.

Differences in Nepal, not Difficulties WATER

2011-01-09T09:33:00.000-08:00

One of the biggest changes we have had to face in Nepal is water. Anyone who lived close to us in Tennessee knows we used a lot of water. Watered our yard after we planted grass, the kids made mud puddles to play in and we just didn't have to think about if we were going to run out of water. Well, it is not like that here in Nepal. At least in our part of the city. The city water comes every 4 days so during that time there is plenty to go around. But only then. That is when we take our looong hot shower and not feel bad about how long you are in there. The other times we are very water conscience. And you remember the old saying about flushing the commode " If it's yellow, let it mellow and if it's brown flush it down." Well, that is definitely put in practice here. To conserve water.

This is our neighbors water tank but ours looks the same. Except our building has two.
Another family from America lives above us. Same process. You pump water up to the container to use for your house.

Don't get me wrong. I only did this once. We were behind on laundry for some reason and I thought I would help the washer out and use less water. I had several people watching me. I'm sure I looked as ridiculous as I felt.

This is our washer. It does a good job with the clothes. But very small, takes a long time and uses a lot of water. One day we measured it. It takes 50 liters per load.

Yes, we did make it to Nepal.

2011-01-07T09:28:00.000-08:00

As you can see, we have made it to Nepal!! We arrived on Oct. 29 over two months ago. I can't believe I have not written anything on my blog this whole time. It is not because there was nothing to write about. There was more then you can imagine that has happened these last two months that you would be interested in hearing. Not because we are an interesting family, but this county is so very different then America it is so intriguing. I will try to capture it in pictures and maybe,just maybe, I will start back blogging and share stories in time.

First Begger boy that asked me for money. I gave him an American snack and told him that Jesus loved him.

John and his new friends enjoying the afternoon

The view going towards a village outside Kathmandu

I sure would not want to be these Monkeys.

We are Nepal bound

2010-10-25T23:18:00.000-07:00

We have one more day in the USA. So excited and can't wait to see what God has for us there.

All work and no play?

2010-09-13T04:33:00.000-07:00

All work and no play makes the Sellers a very dull family. It rained Friday at our house which formed a very nice mud puddle. Well, since we had NOTHING to do (yeah right) the kids made a bee line to "walk" in it. John quickly grabbed his camera and captured the moment.

Nepal, Here we come ! ! ! ! !

2010-09-12T13:50:00.001-07:00

We have our tickets bought and we are on our way to Nepal. It seems like a long time coming but now that the tickets are bought it is like, "Where did the time go?" Lots to do but so excited about this next chapter in our families lives.

Living Waters Youth Camp

2010-06-19T19:22:00.000-07:00

This week we were at Living Waters Camp. We always come with expectation that God is going to show up in a mighty way. This week was no exception. The altars were full most of the time as young people were challenged by the preaching. I wish I could go every week in the summer. All three of our girls praying together at the altar

Pray for the county of Nepal

2010-05-25T06:51:00.000-07:00

Please pray for the county of Nepal. The deadline for their new constitution is coming up. May 28. The country is divided as to the direction it will go and the party that will be in charge. The man in the middle is Maoist chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal. Earlier this month there was a strike where the Maoist party shut down the country for six days. No traffic moved, stores and schools were closed and the Maoist had a large number of supporters in the streets. This was very devastating in an already weak economy. Not sure what the future holds for this county. I only know that God is in control.

Friday Flashback. OH MY

2010-05-14T12:20:00.000-07:00

I ran across our wedding pictures the other day and oh my what a change. We were so young. Chad was 18 and I was 21. I love to tell people that he was too young to rent the car on our honeymoon. I love him more today that I ever though I could.

Bro. Steve Brown Ministries

2010-05-11T17:41:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share with you a blessing on the internet. Bro. Steve Brown has a wonderful ministry that is a blessing to so many people. They have a local church ministry based out of Heritage Baptist Temple in Little Rock, Arkansas. They want to help Evangelize the World by broadcasting the Live Video of Bible Conference, Missions Conference, CampMeeting, Jubilee, Revival Meeting or Other Special Event on the World Wide Web and record the Event to DVD and CD.

Check it out at http://stevebrownministries.com/

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T21:18:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to wish my Mama a Happy Mothers Day. She has always told me if I want to know what I am going to look like when I get old just look at her. I just pray I am as sweet as she is. Love you Mama.

John and Sarah's graduation video

2010-04-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a homeschool graduation for our oldest two children, John and Sarah. We are so proud of their accomplishments and look forward to what God has in store for them in the future.

"I'm not depressed I'm just cluttered"

2010-03-24T05:03:00.000-07:00

This is the phrase I told my husband this morning. With the finishing of our house, our departure soon to another country (What to pack ... what to leave) , and the daily responsibilities of a home school mother of five, I have a lot on my mind. His respond to my statement, " Just make your list." So here it goes.

1. Pray

2. Pray

3. Pray

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Proverbs 3: 5-6

Friday Photo Flashback

2010-02-12T14:21:00.000-08:00

We did have all 5 kids but Caleb was inside staying warm and cozy. Notice Anna ( 2 at the time). We had to put her in a chair for the picture. She did not want to be outside. Ages of kids: John 8, Sarah 6, Rachel 4, Anna 2, and Caleb 3 months

Ages John 11, Sarah 9, Rachel 7, Anna almost 5, Caleb almost 3

"Mama, she speaks your language."

2010-02-11T11:12:00.000-08:00

This week we were at Northwest Bible Baptist Church in Elgin, IL., outside of Chicago. The last night we attended their International Dinner, where dishes were prepared from all over the world. After we filled our plates with intriguing new recipes, the search for a place to sit began. Since our children had already found their spot next to newly made friends, we only had to look for two chairs. Somewhere in the middle we saw a place across from a lady and her small children. I said hello to the young girl and settled in to our chairs, while Chad was getting our drinks. She immediately said, " Mama, she speaks your language." I did not know what to think. Come to find out her mother was from the south and we had the same southern twang. LOL. I never thought we had a different LANGUAGE in the south but I guess we do.
I came across this list as I was searching for a picture for this post. Hope you enjoy it.

Southern English Dictionary

This basic vocabulary guide to our language down here is offered as a gesture of our hospitality to visiting Northerners who truly want to be able to understand what it is that we're saying.

git - Get.
j'yoo - Did you? (Begins a question), i.e., "J'yoo go huntin' in Butcher Holler yesterday?"
mayrd - Married. i.e., "I heard that Bubba and Mary Jo got mayrd last week."
nanner puddin' - Bannana pudding.
Nawlins - Largest city in Louisiana. Known for it's jazz music and Mardi Gra Festival.
ruther - Rather.
buggy - A shopping cart
thang - Thing.
thar - There.
ustacould - Used to be able to, i.e., "Bubba ustacould sing til' he got that frog in his throat."
whar - Where.
wuz - Was. i.e., "I wuz goin' to work today, but I think I'll lay out and go do sum fishin.'"
youngin - A child. plural: youngins.
yawl - Contraction for you all. Sometimes written as y'all.

Snow days in Oklahoma !!!

2010-02-08T06:05:00.000-08:00

Last week we were at Windsor Hills Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma for their missions conference. Here are some of the "snow" pictures. I will show other pics later. Global warming. LOL
Snow man the college boys built.

Anna warming up to John.

Caleb with Bro. Decker. They just got back from sleding.

The making of "SNOW CREAM"

John, Sarah , and Rachel

Sarah hates the cold.

Three Generations of Preachers

2010-02-03T21:17:00.000-08:00

Tonight we were at our home church and our son John was preaching. His text was John 3:16. During the services, John's grandmother "Granny" started crying. This would be understandable seeing that she was listening to her grandson preach or that she had just recently lost her husband. Yesterday, 02/02, would have been their 47th wedding anniversary. However, after services Granny showed John why she had began to cry. Marked in the Bible pictured above were these recorded dates. The first date recorded was 02/19/06, where his grandfather, Jerry Sellers, had preached. The second was on 08/11/09 when his Daddy, Chad Sellers preached from the same passage. Tonight she marked -02/03/10 JMS (John Michael Sellers). Wow, what a heritage.

Where does time go?

2010-02-01T11:34:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Sarah was looking at my blog and brought to my attention how long it has been since my last entry.

Where does time go?

So much is going on. We are in the last months before leaving to go to Nepal. There is so much that still needs to get done. With each crossed out line on my TO DO LIST, I seem to add 3 more.

Oh well, we are still alive and doing well. Prayerfully, I will do a better job staying in touch.

To Do List
Post a new blog entry CHECK lol

Christmas Ornaments

2009-12-17T05:38:00.000-08:00

The last couple of days has been a whirlwind. Chad and I went shopping on Tuesday without the kids. It was so much fun. My favorite purchase was the ornament that is at the top of my blog. Every year the kids pick out an ornament and put their name on it. It is always interesting to see what they are going to pick out. John's is usually an guitar of some type. No surprise. One year Caleb had Bob the Builder. Everyday he would go ask "Bob" h0w his day was going.
Also we purchase one with all their names and year on it. This year may be my favorite. What do you think of it?

Christmas is almost here.

2009-12-15T03:20:00.000-08:00

Where has the time gone. You knows it goes by fast when your 16 year old daughter talks about this year just flying by. That could be because our live has been a whirlwind since Feb. 08. I did not realize it had been a month since the last time I posted. It sure wasn't because I did not have anything to post. We have been very busy. A lot has been going on. Most of it has revolved around getting ready for Christmas. We have been listening to Christmas music for a month now, watched several Christmas movies, and decorated more this year that I ever have. I will try to post soon. I have just been enjoying being at home.

And then I thought

2009-11-11T05:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning, our son John shared this devotional that God gave him, with the family during our Bible time. I pray it blesses your heart like it did ours.

I awoke this morning to spend time with the Lord. The Lord directed me to a field on the farm where I hope to build a house some day. As I picked up my bible and books, I started looking for a chair. I had the nice comfortable chair in mind that I wanted, but I couldn't find it.

And then I thought;

In life God is going to tell us to go somewhere or do something. And we are going to have a way we want to do it, we are going to think that we have to have certain things (those chairs) in life. We have to be careful not to waste the time that God has given us looking for ways to fulfill what God has told us to do. It doesn’t matter how we think it should be done we have to stop wasting time trying to do it our way and simply do it His way.

I stopped looking for the chair I wanted and picked up an older beaten down one from behind a bunch of stuff.

And then I thought;

When we listen to God and we go where he wants us to go we might have to “give up the nicer chair”. When God says to give money that you don’t have, you will have to give up some things. O, but great is the reward of giving up what really isn’t yours in the first place.

Then I loaded my bible, books, and the old fold out chair in my car and looked behind me to see how to get out. To go where I knew God wanted me to go. I was boxed in! My dad had boxed me in. He parked right behind my car leaving nowhere to go. And what I got from this is that in life dad’s can be a pain, no I’m joking.

And then I thought;

When we answer God’s call we will have to do things differently. We will have to do things that we are not comfortable doing to get the job done that God wants us to do.

I awkwardly drove around the truck and started driving toward the spot I knew God wanted me to be. I pulled up to the gate where I had to get out and start walking, I sat in my car and looked out and saw all kinds of trash, broken glass, weeds that were taller than I was and mud. I asked myself, why am I doing this? It’s early in the morning I don’t want to walk through all that.

And then I thought;

The Christian life is not an easy life to live sometimes. God will put us through things we will never understand. And although we cannot see a way through things (over the tall weeds, trash, and broken glass), we must trust him and listen to His still small voice that leads us. He has promised never to leave us nor forsake us. We are never alone, God is always right beside us working in our lives whether we can or cannot see him.

I opened my car door, gathered my things and stepped out looking forward to seeing that field where I wanted to build a home someday. I walked through the open gate and the mud, weaved my way around the tall grass, and finally opened my chair and sat down right where I knew I was to sit.

And then I thought;

When our life is done and our race is finished, all the troubles and trials that we have had to go through will be worth it to hear those sweet words. “Well done my faithful servant”. No matter what we go through or what we do God is always there for us. No matter how high the mountains or how low the valleys. Our God is worthy of our obedience and praise.

God's been good.

2009-11-09T06:34:00.000-08:00

Here is a link to a song that has meant so much to me. I hope you enjoy it as well. God has been so good to me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RgPRyCWtxss&feature=related

I am needed by my family

2009-11-06T03:44:00.001-08:00

I have got to find the perfect time to post an entry on my blog every day. A time when I will not be distracted my all the duties of being a wife and mother.
The other day, after hearing my name called several times during the day for various "emergencies", I decided I would go outside in the car and hide for a few minutes to gather my thoughts. I did not need much time - just a little me time. Wondering how long I would stay out there, I thought I would just see how long it would take for them to find me. Then I would come in. I did not have to wait long. Within minutes I heard someone say. "Where is Mama, I need her." Should I pretend I did not hear them? No one saw me. Do they really need me? Those thoughts did not last long. Here I go to see what is the matter. It was a good thing I did. Caleb had throw up all over the kitchen floor while the kids were cleaning after supper. All work ceased.
It is good to be a needed person.

A trip to the Library.

2009-11-02T09:02:00.000-08:00

We are going to be home this week so we decided to go the library and check out a few books. I always never seem to get them back on time.
It sure has been nice being at home. The leaves are so pretty and it is good seeing family.
I will try to write more soon.

Chad's birthday

2009-10-28T12:32:00.000-07:00

I did not realize how it has been since my last post. This week we have been at a missions conference in Athens, Tennessee. It has been such a blessing to be a part of a church that loves missionaries and is so interested in what God is doing in our lives. We are having a wonderful time getting to know the people.
Yesterday was Chad's birthday. He turned 40. Last night was the international meal at church. The family we are staying with got to church early and set up a black table cloth for our table and black balloons for his chair. Chad did not know. When we walked into the fellowship hall I said to Chad I guess we need to find a place to sit. His eyes scanned the room to find a spot. When his eyes caught hold of the balloons he said, Oh no. I said oh, yeah. Our table was already full of a bunch of kids who wanted to join in the party. She also had a birthday cake that said "Older that dirt".
The pastor said that everyone will remember us because of Chad's birthday.

Barbeque anyone?

2009-10-02T07:28:00.000-07:00

We are staying with the Bartolotta family a few days. The men are getting together to barbeque a pig today. Yesterday Chad and John built a pit and cooked chickens as a preview. There was a cool breeze that made the day very nice.

Starting building the pit.
Getting the fire ready

Looks like we are having roasted Chad.

Almost ready

Finished product.

Wait until tomorrow. I will post pictures of the pig. Looking forward to a wonderful weekend.

Has someone every shared the gospel with YOU?

2009-09-29T07:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went to Casey Jones Restaurant in Jackson, TN with the Howeth family for lunch. Bro. Tony Howeth is the deputation director for Macedonia World Wide Missions. We had a wonderful time of fellowship during the meal and then later as we strolled through the store. Within the store is Wildlife in Wood Studio. The owner Hershell Dee Moss has a God-given talent in wood carving.
While admiring his work he began to tell us a story about his hunting partner. As the story progressed he shared with us about how he had led his friend to the Lord just weeks before his friend passed away. He then proceeded to share the gospel with us. No introductions were made before hand. He did not know that Chad and Bro. Tony were preachers. He just knew that God had brought someone in his path to share the gospel with. As all 12 of us stood around him, he presented a very clear presentation of the gospel from start to finish. When he was finished he made an appeal to always "close the deal". Just like a car salesman "closes the deal" we should always give someone the opportunity to make a decision about what they just heard. What are you going to do with this Jesus that was just presented to you?
Some are to plant, some are to water, and then when the opportunity presents itself we are to "close the deal"

What a blessing this man was to our family. We just finished a 4 day missions conference where we were encouraged about our responsible to reach the world and here in Jackson, TN a man shares the gospel with us and encourages us to use every opportunity God gives us.

Wow, What a blessing. This was the first time someone has ever shared the Gospel to me besides when I was saved.

Yielding to His leading

2009-08-23T20:36:00.001-07:00

This past weekend we spent with some friends of ours, the Bartolotta family, from Arkansas. Our time with this dear family is always something to look forward to. Their 2^nd son, Seth, always gladly gives up his room for Chad and I to stay in. Their daughter Sarai and our girls usually whip up a delicious dessert, the fellowship is always sweet and refreshing, and I cannot forget to mention we get to enjoy wireless Internet. This is such a blessing when you are on the road. One of the "adventures" of most visits is time spent with their son Stephen as he walks his goats. Stephen is training his goats to show in the county fair. The name of the goats will tell you a little about the temperament of these four legged friends.

--Bonnie and Clyde--

The first goal is to get the leash attached to their collar. Today Stephen had the assistance of his mom, me and my daughter Sarah. The plan is to corner them, narrow in on them, grab their collar and hold on for dear life. The process went a lot smother this time. Sarah was actually able to catch both of them. With one task down, the next is to lead them around a designated course determined by Stephen. The first time I led Bonnie it seemed like it was the other way around. She was leading me. She was choosing our course and it was at a very fast pace. "No, you can't do that. Make her stop and do what you want her to do." This was the instructional words I was receiving. Now was the time for me to put my foot down. The time for me to stand my ground. With all I had I pulled back on the leash. Bonnie came to a halt and began making a choking sound. I immediately let loose and she made a dash for where ever she had in her mind. No, Bonnie, I am in charge. So I pulled back again. Same thing happened. I was so frustrated with her. Did she not know that if she would just yield to my leading, her life would be much easier? She would be able to enjoy a nice leisurely walk, eat the sweet grass I led her to, and take a cool drink of water when she arrived safe at home.

I wonder if God thinks the same thing about us. Our heavenly Father leads and guides us to the very best He has for us, but so many times we buck the system. We have set in our minds the way we think it should be done and go about accomplishing our goals not considering God at all. Wonder what would happen if we would listen for God's leading? Wonder if it would release the pressures of life? Wonder if we would feel safe and secure because we yield our will to His will? These are questions that you and I both know the answers to. GOD is so good to us. Why don't we just yield our lives to His leading? Listen to the still small voice, feel the cool breeze of His presence and enjoy the sweet fellowship.

Which one would You choose?

2009-08-22T10:25:00.000-07:00

Choices, choices everywhere. Over the last few months Chad and I (mainly Chad) have been on a low carb diet. He has done very well. I guess he is just more self disciplined then me or it could be that I just like to cheat more. With Chad over 20 pounds lighter he decided to splurge a little bit. Giving him all the choices of ice cream flavor, he contemplated his decision. Which ONE would he chose. After a few minutes the verdict came. " I will have some Of ALL of them." That is not what I offered. I'm sure Chad will find a message sermon in this somewhere.

Looking for Diamonds

2009-08-05T11:44:00.000-07:00

We spent several hours at the Crater of Diamonds State Park in search for a special treasure. I didn't have to look very far. My family is the such a treasure to me. I sure do enjoy spending time with them. Deputation as brought us closer together. It can't help but bring you closer when you spend the many hours together in the vehicle. LOL We have had a ball on deputation and made such precious memories.

Internet for an hour.

2009-08-03T15:41:00.000-07:00

Oh well, I will take what I can get. We are at the library in Nashville, Arkansas. We have been staying busy since to last time I posted. Today we went to the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas. Hopefully I will figure out to add pictures tomorrow when I come back for my next hour of internet.

Eating Mexican style

2009-07-26T00:33:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun festive dinner tonight. We are in El Dorado, Arkansas and had dinner tonight at a local Mexican restaurant with the pastor and his family. Sombrero for all, music provided and wonderful food. Had a very good time.

Here are some Pictures our son John took.

2009-07-18T14:30:00.000-07:00

Our son John is always taking pictures. With the many states we have traveled on deputation, the views have been endless. We have been home a lot the last couple of weeks and John still has his camera in hand. These were all taken around the house. I am so proud of John and his desire to see the beauty of the simple things of life. He has an eye for it.

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-03T21:25:00.000-07:00

We had such a wonderful day. We spend the day with the Bartolotta family in Arkansas. A day of relax that ended in a bang.

Time with the Lewis family

2009-07-01T18:36:00.000-07:00

Where is this year going? It is already July 1st. Unbelievable. This past weekend we were in MO at three different churches. We had a wonderful time with the Lewis family. They have 7 children and with our five, they was not a quite place to be found. We had so much fun. The last couple of days we have been working on our house. We have gotten a lot finished but there is a lot more to accomplished. Well got to go for now.

Some work at home

2009-06-24T18:27:00.000-07:00

The last few days we have been working at our old house to get it ready to sell or to rent. We are all so tired. It has been very long but productive days. We have many more pictures but I did not have time to upload them. Just a glance of what our few days has been like.

Prayer time at the alter

2009-06-20T18:07:00.002-07:00

It has been a busy time since I last posted. We were at camp the second week on June in Alabama. This week we have been making improvements on our house to get it ready to rent or sell. We would prefer the latter. Lots to write about but never seem to find the time to write. I know I should just set aside a time but I am enjoying being at home it is hard to find the time.

Last week at camp was a very special time for our family. God has always worked on our hearts during the week. John was called to preach at this camp. It is a place you can come away from the world and listen to what God is doing in your live. The last night Bro. Mike, the camp director, had our kids came forward for the other campers to pray over them. Wow, it was such a treat to see all those young people at the alters and for them to be praying for our children. It was a night I will never forget.

Some time at home

2009-06-07T04:20:00.000-07:00

This past week we have been at home. I did not realize how much we needed to be here until after a few days of rest. It has been wonderful. Just to sit on our front porch and watch the squirrel's playing in the morning, Caleb getting to play with old toys that are too big to carry in the car, and cooking in Granny's kitchen.
This week we also were able to be on the giving end for missionaries. Some friends of ours, The Ebert family, came and spent a night with us as they were traveling from Arkansas to Iowa. They are missionaries to the Jewish people. What a joy it was to be able to cook for them and provide a place to rest.

72% Support Level

2009-06-05T12:33:00.000-07:00

The Lord amazes me all the time. I know He is always going to take care of things, but when He does I just stand in awe of His goodness and faithfulness. We started deputation the first Sunday in June, 2008. Now almost 120 churches later, over 50,000 miles traveling, we are right at 72% of our needed support to go to Nepal.
PRAISE THE LORD !!!!
It has definitely been all God and none of us. We have been in so many wonderful churches and met God's choice people. Not sure when we will be leaving but God has continually had the date of Oct. 09 on our hearts.
With that date only months away, I wonder when we see people if it will be our last goodbye before we leave for the field. God has been so good to us with the friendships made and seeing old friends that have meant so much to us through the years.

Thank you churches for opening your hearts to our family and touching our lives in such an incredible way. You have made our journey sweet. You have loved our children and made such lasting memories. I'm sounding like we are through with deputation. Well, not quite yet. I just wanted to thank you all for the support and prayers thus far on our way to the Valley of the Mountains.

How I spent my Memorial Day Weekend.

2009-05-27T06:35:00.000-07:00

This weekend we were at Biloxi River Baptist Church in Gulfport, MS. What a wonderful time was had by all. God showed up in a mighty way. What a blessing it is to be born in the USA where we have the freedom to worship the Lord. My heart is still over whelmed just thinking of the services. Sunday night the pastor and his wife sang the song " I Have been Blessed"

We live in a country

The greatest on earth

Our flag for freedom and what is worth

She stands in the harbor, Miss Liberty calls

All have gave some, but some have gave all

So I can be blessed

Who is on the Lord’s side among you?

2009-05-22T07:00:00.001-07:00

This past week we were at Campmeeting at Smith Chapel Baptist Church in Colt, Arkansas. We have gone to this meeting for several years and have always come away refreshed and renewed in Spirit. This week was no different. On Tuesday night, the United States flag, the Christian flag and Bible were presented and pledged to. Then all the men and women who served in the military followed as someone carried the United States flag around the room. It was wonderful to see the soldiers walk behind our nation's flag. As the US flag was put back in place, the Christian flag was taken and all the men of God followed behind it. On that particular night there were over 60 preachers at the meeting. As they walked around the room several times, totally encircling the crowd, I felt so humbled to be in their presence. These men who has given their lives to God's service. They have served faithfully in a ministry that can be very rewarding but also very discouraging at times. These men are our heroes, our prayer partners, our encouragers, our shepherds. What an awesome responsibility these men have. Yes, it was good to see such a large group of preachers there, but the work is so great and seems like not a lot of young men are being called. Could it be they are being called but not yielding to God's will in their lives? Being in the ministry is a good thing.

It's washing time.

2009-05-21T11:48:00.000-07:00

We just spent the last couple of hours washing and drying clothes in Wynn, Arkansas. The washer will hold up to 6 loads of clothes. It sure did cut down of my time. Also have internet service here. Yah Hoo.

Some pictures of our time in Lynchburg, VA

2009-05-19T13:47:00.000-07:00

Grace Baptist Church

2009-05-19T13:06:00.001-07:00

April 23 – 26^th we were in a missions conference at Grace Baptist Church in Blackstone, VA. The pastor is Bro. Bruce Rhue. We had a very good week. We were able to get a lot of rest and encouragement from the Lord. Thanks Grace Baptist for such a wonderful week. ----Making new friends-----challenging preaching ------ a time of fun for the kids.

*PICTURE POST***

2009-05-18T13:38:00.000-07:00

Playing at the creek

We went to a wax museum

Rachel enjoyed baking.

2009-05-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

Our daughter Rachel has enjoyed being at the Ulmers house this week. She has been able to bake. This is her 2nd cake in 2 days. Shall we go for 3? I think so.

2009-05-12T07:23:00.000-07:00

We are in Morristown, TN with some old friends. Bro. Mike and Lori Ulmer. Looking forward to a few days of rest and fellowship. I will try to write more later.

Ball at the rest area

2009-05-05T15:27:00.001-07:00

Life on the road can be very tiring driving from one destination to the next. On our way from Lynchburg, Virginia to Valley, Alabama the other day we got very tired of being in the car. So when we saw a rest area sign we stopped for a little bit to try out Caleb's new ball and glove.

Time to come away

2009-04-28T05:10:00.001-07:00

Sunday night we arrived at the Brodies house in Lynchburg, VA. We have had a wonderful time of relaxing and fellowship already. Yesterday their daughter and her husband, Donn and Sherry Schnarr celebrated their 18^th wedding anniversary. We were able to spend almost the whole day with this wonderful family and their children.

Busy month on the road

2009-04-23T09:54:00.000-07:00

Our calender is full. We will be away from home for the next month. Please pray for safety on the road and for the meeting to be productive for increasing our support level. We are praying to leave for Nepal in October.

????????? QUESTIONS ON THE ROAD ???????????????

2009-04-23T05:45:00.000-07:00

How many more miles till the next bathroom?

Where do we eat for lunch (which dollar menu sounds good today)?

Is anyone going to get car sick today?

Do we do school or just let them rest?

Why didn't I buy those noise reducer headphones?

How far do we have to travel today?

Will they have high speed Internet?

After you arrive to your destination

Where you have to sit to get the best Internet service?

Where is the light switch in the bathroom?

Do we have enough towels?

Where is the ice machine?

Will we have enough cover? ( forgot ours at home)

How do you set the air conditioner?

How many nights are we staying here?

Where is the church located?

Are there kids there for our to fellowship with?

Are we going to sing a special?

Where is the best place to do school?

Where is the post office?

The one I hear the most is

When are we going home?

Easter Sunday in Brookhaven, MS

2009-04-18T17:40:00.000-07:00

Easter Sunday we were with Bro. Tim Gordon, pastor of Charity Baptist Church in Brookhaven, MS. Caleb had been sick the night before, so him and I had to miss Sunday Morning services. We have gone everywhere with Chad on deputation and have not missed any services because of sickness. Caleb sure did miss going. We stayed in the hotel and sleep most of the day. He was able to go to the night services. I also did not get Easter pictures made. I just totally forgot.

Wednesday night, 4/15 we were at Clearview Baptist in South Haven, MS. The pastor is Bro. Cory Knepsheild. It was an easy drive Wed afternoon to attend church. We live only a few hours away.

I just love high speed internet.

2009-04-18T14:05:00.000-07:00

We just arrived in Maryville, TN. for the weekend. Enjoying high speed internet so it looks like I may get caught up on my blog.

Church, church and some fun along the way

2009-04-08T21:13:00.000-07:00

Since last time I posted we have been

in a missions conference in Caushatta, Louisiana

went bowling

went home for one day

attended campmeeting in Hayden, Alabama

did school every chance I got

presented field in Sylacauga, Alabama

Chad preached a revival in Alex City, Alabama

stayed a lake house on Lake Martin

went to a farm to ride horse, 4 wheelers, and pet animals

We have had a wonderful time. But I did not realize I was so far behind. Here are some of the pictures we took.

Busy Sunday and Relaxing Monday

2009-03-24T18:54:00.001-07:00

Sunday we were at two different churches in Louisiana. For morning services we were at Shady Grove Baptist Church in Bossier City and then we drove around 3 hours to Grace Baptist Church in Evens, LA. It was a very busy day but a very good one. We enjoyed both services.

On Monday we drove to Krotz Springs to spend time with some old friends, The Disotells. Bro. Wendell took us out on the Bayou. We got to see several alligators and a little too close to one of them for my comfort.

Time with friends !!!

2009-03-24T18:04:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday, Friday and Saturday we went to Greenbrier, Arkansas to spent time with some friends, the Bartolottas. Their daughter Sarai made us a special "Welcome Home" cookie. We had such a sweet time fellowshipping with them. Their pastor, Bro. Jackson, and family came over Friday night for a steak dinner while the kids went to Taco Bell and then bowling.

Sibley Baptist Church in Sibley, Louisanna

2009-03-20T11:07:00.000-07:00

Monday - Wednesday of this week we were at Sibley Missionary Baptist Church in Sibley, Louisanna, for their annual missions conference. The pastor is Bro. Jeff Flenniken. As God moved in, people made decisions to increase their faith promise. It was so neat to see people show their faith in the Lord at this time in our country.

A real treat for the week was spending time with the Rochester/Matthews family. They provided all the special music for the conference. This is a family that has stayed true through the years. It is always a blessing to hear and see them.

Anna and Bro. Ben

Sarah and Morgan

Rachel, Lindze, Madison, Lizzie

Caleb and JB

Sunday March 15th

2009-03-20T10:39:00.000-07:00

Sunday, March the 15th was very busy. First we were in Bogue Chitta, Mississippi at Faith Missionary Baptist. It was a wonderful time of worship and we enjoyed being there very much.

Pastor James Blackwell

John enjoyed playing for their services

Then we drove 3 hours to Monroe, Louisiana. The church we attended was Maranatha Baptist Church. The pastor is Bro. Daniel Goodman. We have known Bro. Daniel for several years and enjoyed fellowshipping with him and his family after services.

Another busy week.

2009-03-18T07:40:00.000-07:00

Last week we were very busy. We got home Monday afternoon from Greenbrier, Arkansas after a very wonderful missions conference at Faith Baptist Church. That night Chad preached at Friendship Baptist Church in Henderson, TN. The pastor is Bro. Ronnie Sells. This started a week long revival with a different preacher each night. It was a special night for me because this is my Daddy and Mama's church. The church I grew up in.

Then we started a missions conference in Lyles, TN with Bro. Joe Vick. The conference went from Tue. - Thur. We drove each night one and half hours for services. We enjoyed hearing Bro. Ron Ralph, pastor of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Carthage, TN. preach each night.

Bro. Joe Vick

special singing

Friday we spent the day just relaxing and celebrating Sarah's birthday. Went out to eat at her ( and her Daddy's) favorite restaurant. Longhorn Steakhouse in Jackson, TN.

We started packing late Friday night to leave on Sat. for a month long trip.

Missions conference at Faith Baptist Church

2009-03-14T18:34:00.000-07:00

The week of March 4 - 8th we were at Faith Baptist Church in Greenbrier, Arkansas. Their pastor is Bro. Alan Jackson. We had already been to this church last year at the beginning of our deputation. They are one our our supporters.

What a week. We were so taken back by the kindness shown to our family and here again we felt a part of the church family.

The church increased there faith promise by over 30%. Amen.

This financial problem that the USA is in did not come as a surprise to God and his people still are showing their faith in the Lord.

What a mighty God we serve!!!!

Remembering PE Class

2009-03-13T21:28:00.000-07:00

I have asked my husband to write on my blog as a special guest. I always enjoy his preaching, stories he tells and illustrations he uses. That's a good thing since we get to hear him all the time. I hope you enjoy his thoughts as much as I do.

As I was reflecting on my childhood I thought I would share some thoughts with you. I remember that in school we had PE class and that I enjoyed PE. Although I was not athletic and I really did not do a whole lot of things well I still enjoyed PE class. I liked playing games such as kickball, capture the flag, grab the bacon, dodge ball (a favorite) and prison ball (another favorite). I guess maybe I liked PE because I did not have to think or maybe because I did not have to sit still or probably because I did not have to be quiet (which has been a problem throughout life). Regardless I still liked PE. There is one thing, however, that I hated about PE. One thing that could have warped me for life and if I were some liberal with all kinds of problems I would probably have sued the school over the mental anguish this causes kids. This one thing was so demoralizing, discouraging, and downright cruel that I cannot understand how it ever took place in a public institution. That of course was the cruel act of choosing teams. IT WAS FINE when the PE teacher counted you off and all the 1’s went to the left and all the 2’s went to the right or when she put certain teams together by her own wisdom but the ugly act of choosing two different kids to choose their own teams was so demeaning and mean that words cannot express my horror at this very act. I did not possess the abilities that any one wanted on their team and I did not have particularly close friends that wanted me. I was good (at least I thought I was) but it seemed (although probably not true) that I was always the last one to be standing with the wimpiest, scrawniest, little kid that no one liked. I was never chosen first, I was never picked first, always last or at least close to last because no one saw in me anything that they needed or wanted. That brings me to a magnificent truth that is so simple but deep and rich that it burns within me like a consuming wildfire burning out of control. And that truth is that GOD CHOSE ME! Just like He chose Noah to build an ark, Abraham and Sarah to birth his nation, Joseph to protect that small nation during time of famine, and Moses to lead that great nation out of bondage, and Joshua to follow after Moses and to lead them into the Promised Land, YES GOD CHOSE ME! Just like God chose Samson to save Israel from the Philistines, and Gideon to deliver them from the Midianites, and Samuel to restore integrity to the priesthood, YES GOD CHOSE ME!! Just like He Chose Elijah, Elisha, David, and Solomon, Daniel, Hosea, Jeremiah, and all the other prophets GOD CHOSE ME!!! Just like he chose John the Baptist, and his disciples, and Paul and all the fellow-helpers GOD CHOSE ME!!!! Yes in Ephesians 1:4 Paul said “According as he hath chosen us in him . . .” and you know what - God picked me first “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you” John 15:16. Yes, we have been chosen by God for the work of this time. No one else may see what we have to offer and no one else may care but God who sees not as man seeth but looks on the heart (I Samuel 16:7) has chosen us – all of us – to do His work at this time. He has not chosen too many of the wise, mighty, or noble (I Corinthians 1:26), but has chosen the foolish, weak, base, despised things and things that are not (v27&28) so “That no flesh should glory in his presence” v29. Isn’t it wonderful to be chosen by Him to be picked by Him and to be given a work picked by Him. I am glad He chose Noah, Elijah, David, the Disciples, Paul and all the rest of them. And I am glad that GOD CHOSE YOU – but from the depths of my soul I am forever grateful that GOD CHOSE ME.

Chad W. Sellers

Greenbrier, Arkansas

2009-03-13T05:44:00.001-07:00

Last week we were at Faith Baptist Church in Greenbrier, Arkansas for their Missions Conference. While there we had the opportunity to go to the Public school and share with the six grade class during their lunch break. Ben, a member of Faith, attends the public school and has started and directs a time of devotions and encouragement to 5th graders who wish to come. A teacher has allowed her classroom to be used, but Ben in in charge of everything, from the program to the cleanup. It was very encouraging to me to see the children that attended. There were around 60 that chose to spend their lunch period hearing the gospel. I was very impressed with their attentiveness and questions.

Climbing Higher and Saying Goodbyes.

2009-03-10T05:59:00.000-07:00

We just heard from another church that has taken us on for support we are now at almost 55%. It is so neat to see God working.

On March the 1st we were with Emmanuel Baptist Church in Huron, TN. They are without a pastor now. We enjoyed seeing old friends and being close to home. Many memories at this place.

The hardest thing for our family on deputation is always having to say goodbye. You get so attached to people in such a short time, feel like you are a part of a church and then it is time to go. A lot of the time you know you may never see them again for four years or maybe never again. This has been very hard on our children.

My husband often tells the kids, "It is far better to have made a friend for a short time then to never have made one at all."
And a dear preacher friend of ours once told us, " We have all of eternity to spend together."

Sweet 16 to Sarah Ashley Sellers

2009-03-08T12:02:00.000-07:00

Today is our daughter Sarah's 16th Birthday. We are so very proud of her. She loves the Lord and uses her talents for the Him while we are on the deputation trail. She is a very beautiful girl inside and out. I thank the Lord daily for all five of our children.

Grace Baptist Church Columbus, Georgia

2009-03-07T19:15:00.000-08:00

February 18 - 22, we were at Grace Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia. Dr. Jeff Amsbaugh is the senior pastor. We were challenged each night with preaching from Dr. Greg Baker, pastor of Faithway Baptist Church in Canada.

The song, "There shall be Showers of Blessings" came to my mind many times this week. We were so well taken care of. The people were so kind and interested in being a blessing to all the missionaries that were there.

Most of all, here again, our kids were part of a youth group. We are making friends for a life time.

Anna with Dr. Greg Baker

Chad preaching in the Bus Teen church Sunday Morning

Our kids sings at Grace Christian School in one of their classes.

Bowling fun with some of youth from Grace Baptist

Deputation continues.

2009-03-06T08:07:00.000-08:00

Feb. 11th, we were at Good Shepherd Baptist Church in Smithville, Kentucky. The girls enjoyed gathering around the piano after services.

Trying out the bells on our display table. This was taken at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Hickory Flats, MS. We were we there on Feb. 15th. That night we went to Community Baptist Church in Walnut, Mississippi.

"Pickin and a little grinning"

2009-03-06T07:40:00.000-08:00

After services one night at Bible Baptist The Nichols family, missionaries to Brazil, and John did a little pickin.

Going for the Gold.

2009-03-06T06:55:00.000-08:00

February 2nd - 8th we were at Bible Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Arkansas for their annual missions conference. Bro. Mike Files is the pastor. What an incredible week. Everyone in attendance was challenged concerning world wide missions. Bro. Keith Gomez was the main speaker for the week and brought wonderful messages from the Lord.

Bro. Files and his wife with Bro. Gomez

When the week started there was a black flag hanging to represent a country that Bible Baptist Church did not support. Sunday night the church voted to take us on for support and Chad replaced the black flag with the Nepal flag, at the same time Bro. Dennis Blankenship, missionary to Sudan, put up a Sudan flag. It meant a lot to our family to see the Nepal flag raised.
Fun in the afternoon. The kids enjoyed making new friends and renewing old friendships this week. We stayed in cabin by the lake.

How we finished our out west trip in Jan./Feb.

2009-03-06T06:31:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, January 28th we were in Penrose, CO with Bro. Keith Bates and his family. What a precious family and good church.

On Sunday, February 1st, we were with Bro. Scott Vines and his family. Their church is His House Baptist Church in Saratoga, Wyoming. We enjoyed our time we spent fellowshipping with the family.

Stuck in the snow.

We ended our trip at Calvary Baptist Church in Eufaula, Oklahoma. We attended their camp meeting and had a wonderful time. Their choir is such a blessing and we were able to see the Rochester family again. What a blessing.

52% and climbing higher.

2009-03-05T05:10:00.000-08:00

Well here we go again. Call it busy, call it tired or just plain lazy. I guess it could be all three and more. It has been a while since I have posted. So many things have happened. I guess I am just overwelmed at times. I never knew what it was like to be on the deputation trail. I am just so tired. I am enjoying every oppurtunity God is giving us to minister. It has been such a blessing. But I never thought I would get so physically tired traveling with a husband and five kids. God has been so good. We just heard from another pastor in TN that they voted to take us on for support. That brought our support level at

52%

I still can't believe it. We are well on our way to get to Nepal by October 2009.

foto friday

2009-01-30T08:13:00.000-08:00

I'm playing along with Tracy at http://ballingerfamilyjourney.blogspot.com/ for foto friday.

Snow is the theme.

This is the road we drove this past Sunday afternoon between churches in Utah. This is over a mountain pass. We have seen a lot of snow, and did not make one batch of snow cream.

Give a way from Mindy..

2009-01-28T08:45:00.000-08:00

Mindy over at http://athomewiththedillingers.blogspot.com/ is having a give away. Check it out.

Arches and Mesa Verde

2009-01-27T20:31:00.000-08:00

We spent Mon. and part of Tue. with Bro. Kirk and Paula Durham. They spent over 10 years in Nepal. Chad's sister and brother-in-law were there at the time and were close friends with the Durhams. It was a very interesting and knowledgeable visit. We enjoyed visiting with them a few days.

............................................

We left Tuesday morning to visit the Arches National Park in Moab, Utah. We did not spend much time here. But it was worth the stop.

We then drove three hours to Mesa Verde National Park in Cortez, Colorado. This was awesome. This was probable the place we all enjoyed the most. We drove across 20 miles of very icy roads inside the park to get to the museum. From here we were taken on a guided tour to the Spruce House cliff dwelling. We learned so much from our guide, Jill. She took a lot of time answering all our questions.

Week 2 !!!!

2009-01-26T15:55:00.001-08:00

When we left Monday morning, January 19th we headed for El Paso, Texas to spend some time with some friends of ours, Bro. Wayne and Vicki Porter, missionaries to Juarez, Mexico. We had so much fun. They have two sons, Wesley and Jerod. John enjoyed spending time with them playing the guitar. We have known the Porters for several years. We spent Tue - Thur. with them.

On Tuesday and Wednesday we went into Juarez, Mexico. This was our first time to visit Mexico. It was so wonderful to see what God is doing there. We enjoyed services with them on Wednesday night. You can tell that God has changed their lives. I enjoyed their song service. The songs are so beautiful. Even though I did not know what they were saying. We were served authentic Mexican food both days. Surprisingly almost all of us liked it. I do have a few picky eaters.

On Thursday we just played. We went to White Sands Mission Range in New Mexico. It was so fun. The kids and "Kids at heart" rolled down the while dunes that are 3 stories high. We had so much fun and were very tired afterwards. We are still finding sand in our car.

Friday morning, Jan 23rd, we left El Paso at 6:00 and drove straight to Grand Canyon, Arizona.
It was worth the drive to see this "big hole in the ground" . We serve a mighty God.

After leaving Grand Canyon we drove to Page, Arizona. It was the first place to stay on our way to Payson, Utah. Nothing there, or so we thought. The next morning we headed for our new destination and turned the curve in the road and there was the Glen Canyon Dam. This may not seem like a big deal to you, it was for us especially Chad. He had wanted to go see the Hoover Dam, but it was no where near where we were going. We got out and took lots of pics and learned a lot in the visitor center. Thank you Lord for allowing us to see it.

We then stopped at lone rock at Lake Powell, what a sight.

Another stop was Coral Sands State Park somewhere along the way in Utah. The highlight of the whole trip for Caleb. With a little prodding he held a snake for the first time. The rest of us held it as well.

We went by Bryce Canyon on the way. It was incredible.

We arrive in Payson, Utah around 6:30 and enjoyed a Chinese meal with Bro. Kent Boykin and his wife. Bro. Kent is the pastor of Hope Baptist Church there is Payson, Utah. They came out here five years ago and have a good work for the Lord.

After services and lunch with the Boykins we traveled over the mountain to Price, Utah. I called my mother along the way and said it looked like a "winter wonderland" . It was beautiful . Snowing and lots of snow already on the ground. I enjoyed the sight while praying for safety the whole way. We don't get much snow in Tennessee and do not really know how to drive on it. Chad did a wonderful job.

That night we were at Grace Baptist Church in Price, Utah. The interim pastor is Bro. Shawn Clapp. He is a missionary to Spanish speaking people. While holding services in building on Sunday afternoon, after the pastor left he was asked to fill in until they call a new pastor. We enjoyed the many questions and interest in our ministry.

We then left and traveled another hour to Green Valley, Utah. We are staying with some friends Bro. Kirk and Paula Durham. We will be here until Wednesday, headed for Colorado.

This is by far the longest post I have ever posted. There has been lots to see and do. We are very tired but have enjoyed seeing this part of the county that the Lord created.

Stay tuned for the rest for of the trip.

Week one !!!!

2009-01-26T15:19:00.000-08:00

We left early Tuesday morning , January 13th, on our out west trip. We drove from Lexington, Tennessee to Amarillo, Texas. About 13 hours of driving. We were so thankful to get to the place we were staying. Cap Rock Baptist Church allowed us to stay in their prophets room for the night.

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Got up early the next morning at headed for Grants, New Mexico. We presented our ministry to Mt. Taylor Baptist Church. The pastor is Bro. Bryon Sarracino. We enjoyed fellowshipping with him and his family before church at the pizza place. They have children around the same ages as our children. Services went very well and we all hated we did not have longer to visit with this sweet family.

The next morning we headed for Mesa, Arizona. We were a part of their 2nd missions conference. The pastor is Bro. Gary Schwer. Bro. Mike Files , pastor of Bible Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Arkansas preached the conference. This church is doing a wonderful job giving "water to this dry and thirty land". It was so exciting to see their eagerness to serve. After four days of Challenging preaching on our responsible to reach the world through Faith Promise Missions, the church more than doubled their commitment to missions. WOW. What a mighty God we serve.

Victory Baptist Church Cullman, Alabama

2009-01-26T10:57:00.000-08:00

Sunday night, January 11th, we were with Bro. Keith Whitley at Victory Baptist Church in Cullman, Alabama. This church has had Chad's Mom and Dad come tell our the work in Nepal. We enjoyed updating them on the work. Some friends of our Bro. Jeremy Ragland and his son Micah along with Josh Latipie joined us for the service. Afterwards, we headed home to get ready for our out west trip.

Grand Canyon

2009-01-24T06:24:00.000-08:00

WOW, What a God !!!!

Yesterday we traveled all day to get to the Grand Canyon. The closer we got, the foggier it got. After finally arriving at our destination, it was so foggy we could not see anything. We started praying for the Lord to allow us to see the Canyon after traveling so far. Within minutes the most of the fog cleared and we were able to see the beauty of such a wonderful place that God created. It is so much more than just a big hole in the ground. It was amazing. Our children was so excited that God answered their prayer so fast. What a God!

After wards we traveled about two more hours to Page, Arizona. Nothing special about stopping there, it was just the closest town that had a hotel going toward Salt Lake City, Utah. We are going to be in Salt Lake Sunday.

Hopefully I will be able to write soon about the churches we have been to here soon.

Gun fighers and borders

2009-01-21T12:26:00.000-08:00

More pictures to come, but here is a couple before we leave again for Mexico. We have been staying in El Paso, Texas and went into Mexico yesterday. We are having a great time. I will write more later. We are still around.

Lee's Chapel Baptist Church Dora, Alabama

2009-01-14T14:20:00.000-08:00

January 8 - 11, we were a part of Lee's Chapel Baptist Church missions Conference. Bro. Danny Tessener is the pastor. What a blessed time. We sure enjoyed the whole week. We were challenged by the word of God concerning world wide missions. When the week ended, the church's faith promise increased. What a blessing to be here. Also, I thought of Nina a lot this week. Her uncle in the pastor of the church and I got to visit with her mother. I thought about posting the video because of her. http://www.portugalbound.blogspot.com

Glen Iris Baptist Church Birmingham, Alabama

2009-01-14T04:55:00.000-08:00

Wednesday night, January 7th, we were at Glen Iris Baptist Church, in Birmingham, Alabama. The pastor is Bro. Chris Lamb. We have heard about Glen Iris and their ministry for some time but had never visited here. This church has been supporting Chad's Dad and Mom for some time. It was a blessing to come report on the work they have been supporting and introduce our ministry. We enjoyed being here.

Haven of Rest Baptist Church Calhoun, Georgia

2009-01-05T20:54:00.000-08:00

All day Sunday we were at Haven of Rest Baptist Church in, Calhoun,Georgia. The pastor is Bro. Jason Fuller. The Lord moved in and a young girl was gloriously saved. The kids enjoyed seeing old friends. We stayed in a very nice travel trailer at the church Saturday night. Then we traveled home 5 hours Sunday night after services.

Bubble Gum and Snowmen

2009-01-03T18:39:00.000-08:00

Sarah with 21 gumballs

After most are in her mouth

Saying good bye to my snow people

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Over the holidays my kids got with some of their friends at the mall close to our home. Sarah decided she would try to chew all the flavors of gumballs at the same time. There was 21 different kinds. After about 30 minutes she had all of them in her mouth. The kids made a video of it, but I decided not to post it. It was kinda gross when she spit it all out. It was quiet a wod.

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It was hard putting up our Christmas decorations this year. I'm not sure if we are going to take them to Nepal with us or not.

Faith Baptist Church Mascott, Tennessee

2009-01-02T22:27:00.000-08:00

I have failed to post the last three churches we were at in 2008. I guess the reason is that as soon as we got home I got wrapped up in Christmas. It sure was not that we did not enjoy being in the services. God allowed us to finish the year, just as all the way through, in services with people who love missionaries and the spreading of the gospel around the world.

Sunday night, December 14th, we were at Faith Baptist Church in Mascott, Tennessee. The pastor is Bro. Laurence Ford. We sure did enjoy metting these precious folk. You can tell they love the Lord. After church was over they kindly offered for us to stay at their missions room. With only about a 5 hour drive, and since this was our last meeting before Church we decided to just travel on home and sleep in our own beds.

Hines Valley Baptist Church Knoxville, Tennessee

2009-01-02T22:16:00.000-08:00

Sunday morning, December 14th, we were at Hines Valley Baptist Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. The pastor is Bro. Allen Williams. We have known Bro. Allen and his wife for many years while he pastored in West Tennessee. In fact, Bro. Williams for part of Chad's ordination counsel years ago. We enjoyed the services and the fellowship afterwards.

Ridgeview Baptist Church Maryville, Tennessee

2009-01-02T21:48:00.000-08:00

On December 10, my birthday, we were at Ridgeview Baptist Church in Maryville, Tennessee. The pastor is Bro. Wayne Sexton. Wow, God sure moved in. We enjoyed it so much. The church has a web site. Check it out sometime.

http://www.ridgeviewbaptist.com/

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T17:27:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a year. 2008 was such a wirlwind for me and my family. I can not remember much about the first part of the year, before our trip to Nepal in February. But as soon as we got back from Nepal in February, things went so fast.

Telling and resigning the church at Milledgeville

selling our bar-b-que pit business

getting our presentation together (board, cards, dvd, etc.)

Chad making tons of phone calls

having two hugh yardsells and moving out of our house ( still not sold please pray)

moving in with my in-laws

learning to pack for all 7 of us on the many road trips

homeschooling while going down the road

wondering where the next bathroom is

traveling to 17 different states

shared our burden in 74 different churches

met so many wonderful people

spent time with old friends

holidays at home

As I write this post I am so excited about the ministry God has called Chad and our family to. I have loved every minute of this last year and looking forward to this next year.

I do pray that deputation will just last a little over a year and we are on the field by

October 2009.

Thank you all who have followed my blog and prayed for our family. We sure do need it.

Happy New Year

Some more pictures from Christmas!

2008-12-29T08:26:00.000-08:00

My nephew Daniel and his fiance Felisha

Look what I got.

Rachel showing off the bird.

Caleb and Nicholas

Sarah and Kristin

John, Kerry, Zach, Caleb and John

Rachel, Sarah, Shelby, Anna, Cassie, Lydia

Chad's sister Jennifer

Getting loaded up for the next round

Sarah taking her turn with the Nerf

2008-12-28T17:26:00.000-08:00

handprint tree skirt

Painted hands around Granny

Christmas at Granny and Pappy's was fun this year. There are 10 grandchildren with Caleb the youngest. Caleb loves anything military. Guns, tanks, etc. All the other kids asked for clothes or good smelling stuff, but not Caleb. Thank the Lord we had one person that wanted things that were still fun to watch them open. After they finially got the gun put together Caleb stood in the middle of the room with 18 people around him and bullets went flying. It was so funny. Earlier Chad took all the cousins bowling. They had such a good time.

The next day we went to my Mama and Daddy's house. My brother and sister both came with their families. We had such a good time. It was so good just to sit around and visit. I thank the Lord that Chad and I were raised in Christian homes.

We spent a few days in the mountains.

2008-12-11T17:38:00.000-08:00

We had such a good time the last few days. We have been in the Smokey Mountains. We love coming here. I'm so glad the scheduling worked out so we could come away a few days to this wonderful place that holds so many memories for our family.

Morning Star Baptist Church Easley, South Carolina

2008-12-08T06:39:00.000-08:00

Sunday afternoon we traveled for over three hours to Morning Star Baptist Church in Easley, South Carolina for the night service. The pastor is Bro. David Ellenberg. What a wonderful welcome. This church made us feel like home folk. We enjoyed the services and fellowship with them. As the service was ending the pastor got us and said God was dealing with him about taking us on for support. So they voted right then, and we are now their newest missionary family. Wow, What a mighty God we serve.

Community Baptist Church Lenoir City, Tennessee

2008-12-08T06:34:00.000-08:00

Sunday morning, Dec. 7th, we were at Community Baptist Church in Lenoir City, Tennessee. The pastor is Bro. Mark Smith. Bro. Mark and his family have been missionaries to the country of Russia, and now for the last six years at Community Baptist. We enjoyed so much the fellowship with this dear couple. They know exactly what our live has been like over the last six months. Being on the road, experiencing the deputation trail. What wonderful memories God has given to us.

Berean Baptist Church Trenton, Georgia

2008-12-04T08:51:00.000-08:00

We spent Monday and Tuesday night at the missions house of Temple Baptist Church in Chattanooga. It was very nice. You could tell a lot of thought and time went into preparing the house for the comfort of visitors staying there.

On Wednesday night, December 3rd, we were at Berean Baptist Church in Trenton, Georgia. The pastor is Bro. Steve Goolsby. The kids were able to visit friends they had met earlier this year. We enjoyed services and then traveled home for a few days.

Faith Baptist Church Ringgold, Georgia

2008-12-04T08:45:00.000-08:00

Sunday night, November 30th, we were at Faith Baptist Church in Ringgold. Georgia. The pastor is Bro. Jimmy Thomasson. The church has a growing congregation that are excited about what God is doing.
Listed below is the churches website
www.visitfaithbaptist.com

Mineral Park Baptist Church McDonald, Tennessee

2008-12-04T06:35:00.000-08:00

Sunday morning, November 30th, we were at Mineral Park Baptist Church in McDonald, Tennessee. The pastor is Bro. Ronnie Jones. After services we enjoyed a wonderful "Southern cooked" at the pastors home and good fellowship.

Finally back after a long break

2008-11-29T17:44:00.001-08:00

We have been home for the past few weeks. Well almost all of November. We have been very busy through the weeks and then churches on Sunday's and Wednesdays. We have had a wonderful time. This has always been my favorite time of the year and God is so good to allow our schedule to work out the way it did.
The only downside of being at home was we did not have high speed Internet. So I got very behind on emails and my blog. It is hard to caught up and think about everything that happened a month ago.
So much has happened that it is hard to remember. Any way the biggest highlight is we are now at
41% of our monthly support.

God is so good. I am always amazed at Him. I don't know why, because He is always the same and has always taken care of us.

I want to say Thank you to all the churches we have presented our call to , to the wonderful people in each state we have visited, and to family that has always been there with encouraging words to keep us going.

Heriage Baptist Church Selmer, Tennessee

2008-11-29T17:06:00.000-08:00

November 23rd, Sunday morning, we were at Heritage Baptist Church in Selmer, Tennessee. The church is without a pastor at this time. We enjoyed so much being with these wonderful families.

Friendship Baptist Church Henderson, Tennessee

2008-11-29T17:04:00.000-08:00

Sunday night, November 12th, we were at Friendship Baptist Church in Henderson, Tennessee. The pastor is Bro. Ronnie Sells. What a special treat to be here. Especially for me. This is the church I grew up. My parents have gone here for over 40 years. It was a very emotion time. After the service was over we were asked to stand up front for everyone to come around for a "right hand of fellowship" The fellowship was sweet as person after person came around to tell us they would be praying for us. These people who have been such a part of my life all these years. The night was very special to me.

First Baptist Church Finger, Tennessee

2008-11-29T17:00:00.000-08:00

Sunday morning, November 12th, we were at First Baptist Church, in Finger, Tennessee. The pastor is Bro. Bobby Bray.

Victory Baptist Church Henderson, Tennessee

2008-11-29T16:56:00.000-08:00

Wednesday night, November 12, we were at Victory Baptist Church in Henderson, Tennessee. Bro. Jerry McCorkle is the pastor there. We have known most the people in this congregation for some time. This church took us on for support before we came for a visit. It was nice to show them our presentation and report has God is working during deputation.

Hillside Baptist Church Humbolt, Tennessee

2008-11-29T16:49:00.000-08:00

On November 9th, Sunday night, we were at Hillside Baptist Church in Humbolt, Tennessee.Their pastor is Bro. Bill Aston. He and his wife were out of town so Chad was asked to fill in. Hillside has been a supporting church for a few months now. It was nice to see familar faces and some new ones.

Valley of the Mountains

Around the house

Differences in Nepal, not Difficulties WATER

Yes, we did make it to Nepal.

We are Nepal bound

All work and no play?

Nepal, Here we come ! ! ! ! !

Living Waters Youth Camp

Pray for the county of Nepal

Friday Flashback. OH MY

Bro. Steve Brown Ministries

Happy Mother's Day

John and Sarah's graduation video

"I'm not depressed I'm just cluttered"

Friday Photo Flashback

"Mama, she speaks your language."

Snow days in Oklahoma !!!

Three Generations of Preachers

Where does time go?

Christmas Ornaments

Christmas is almost here.

And then I thought

God's been good.

I am needed by my family

A trip to the Library.

Chad's birthday

Barbeque anyone?

Has someone every shared the gospel with YOU?

Yielding to His leading

Which one would You choose?

Looking for Diamonds

Internet for an hour.

Eating Mexican style

Here are some Pictures our son John took.

Happy 4th of July

Time with the Lewis family

Some work at home

Prayer time at the alter

Some time at home

72% Support Level

How I spent my Memorial Day Weekend.

Who is on the Lord’s side among you?

It's washing time.

Some pictures of our time in Lynchburg, VA

Grace Baptist Church

*****PICTURE POST*******

Rachel enjoyed baking.

Ball at the rest area

Time to come away

Busy month on the road

????????? QUESTIONS ON THE ROAD ???????????????

Easter Sunday in Brookhaven, MS

I just love high speed internet.

Church, church and some fun along the way

Busy Sunday and Relaxing Monday

Time with friends !!!

Sibley Baptist Church in Sibley, Louisanna

Sunday March 15th

Another busy week.

Missions conference at Faith Baptist Church

Remembering PE Class

Greenbrier, Arkansas

Climbing Higher and Saying Goodbyes.

Sweet 16 to Sarah Ashley Sellers

Grace Baptist Church Columbus, Georgia

Deputation continues.

"Pickin and a little grinning"

Going for the Gold.

How we finished our out west trip in Jan./Feb.

52% and climbing higher.

foto friday

Give a way from Mindy..

Arches and Mesa Verde

Week 2 !!!!

Week one !!!!

Victory Baptist Church Cullman, Alabama

Grand Canyon

Gun fighers and borders

Lee's Chapel Baptist Church Dora, Alabama

Glen Iris Baptist Church Birmingham, Alabama

*PICTURE POST***