To the driver of the grey Mercedes who passed me in a no passing zone, in the pouring rain on Petaluma Hill Road this afternoon. Let me take a moment to translate my long, unintimidating horn honk: "Why are you passing me? What possible reason could you find to pass me as I slow to avoid running into the turning car in front of me? I really don't have a problem with your freedom to do stupid things, but when you put other people in danger (including me), that makes me angry. So please don't do it." I hope that extra 10 seconds was used wisely when you got to your destination. Besides your driving skills, I'm a little concerned you may be suicidal-You did cut off a bus when you turned left (for a "shortcut" I'm sure) a few minutes later. Please, don't go through with it. Even if it doesn't seem like it at the time, there is so much to live for.

To the PG&E crew in the cherry picker (that's what they're called, right?) working on power lines. Thank You. May God bless you and protect you.

To the hundreds of other cars that drove with me or passed me going the opposite direction. I wish you safe travels. And please don't let the rain make you stupid. I've seen it happen before, I'm sure it will happen again.

To the guy who makes the rain (AKA God). Thank you for providing water to nourish the fields and the animals and us. Please be merciful in this outpouring. Protect the people in the flood plains. Protect all the drivers out there and all the workers required to work in this storm. And as we enter this holiday weekend, PLEASE keep people safe and help us all to make intelligent decisions as we celebrate and travel. Thanks.

Sincerely,

the girl in the car with the peeling paint.

Fallen Soldier

Although I strongly believe that myspace is evil, I have recently (under great duress) become a card-carrying member of the myspace family. I have found that although there are many, many, extraordinarily annoying parts to it, there are some redeeming features that make up my reasons for canceling my unofficial boycott. It seems that half my high school is on myspace and that it does a much better job of keeping alumni connected than Classmates.com ever could (you can’t do anything on classmates without buying a membership). Although some people have 18,000 “friends” that they have never met, I currently have 2 and I am totally ok with that (One is Tom who started myspace and comes automatically with the membership). I hope to use myspace to get back in contact and/or keep up to date with what’s happening in people’s lives. I hereby solemnly promise to avoid posting stupid surveys, quizzes and pointless blogs as I already have a medium for that here on blogspot. Not to mention, myspace templates get very busy and frustrating. I only intend to add friends that I actually know or did know at some point. And for the time being, I don’t even NEED to add them. I’ll add them if they contact me or if I NEED to in order to contact them. I know I have friends. I don’t need myspace to validate me with virtual friends. As for news, I have discovered some classmates who have changed a lot, some classmates who have changed very little and of course those in-betweenies. There are new marriages, new babies, great careers and people (like me) who still live at home with mom and dad (although I’m trying to change that). I’ve read about their travels, some of their trials and also triumphs. It’s hard to believe I graduated 5 YEARS AGO. I was even impressed to find that our Senior Class President is still working hard for our class. She set up a group for our class to stay connected with the hopes of drawing from it for a ten-year reunion (it seems far-off, yet so close).

It was in this group, that I found a post about a classmate of ours that died serving in Iraq. I was shocked. This happened in October. He had been living in Santa Rosa and left behind a wife and a new baby. Josh Kynoch (“Kynoch” as he was referred to in school) had been a member of the wrestling team. And I was the stat-girl (scorekeeper). We weren’t close, but I spent almost all my time every wrestling season with the team—wrestling meets, weekend tournaments, even practices. I was pretty devoted to it and deeply loved the sport and all my “brothers” in the dysfunctional family that was the Casa Grande Wrestling Team. Although I had my fair share of crushes on some of the guys, I’m pretty confident that they simply saw me as “Liz, the stat-girl.” Some of the guys could be mean to me, but I enjoyed the competitive spirit and “took it like a man.” There were some who were truly and genuinely nice to me--Josh was one of them (although I don’t think I ever appreciated him enough at the time). He had a bit of a rough time trying to make it as a wrestler. The first few years were quite grueling, but he was persistent. He never gave up. I can imagine that made him a great soldier. There were many guys who joined the wrestling team (nobody was cut except for grades or behavior), got discouraged and quit. I know Josh had some discouraging times but he never ever quit. He kept trying to be a better wrestler and that was what happened. He learned new skills, he got stronger. In February of 2000 (our senior year), he earned the right to wrestle at the North Coast Section wrestling tournament in Antioch (I’ve been told that our section tournament is more intense and challenging than many state’s tournaments). I am sure he brought the same intensity, drive and passion to serving our country in Iraq. In learning about his death, I felt deep sorrow for his family as well. I met his little sister when she was probably 11. She came and watched his meets and tournaments and eventually became a stat-girl at her high school. His mom watched and cheered for him tirelessly. I remember during one of the snow trips the team (and their families) made every year, she braided my hair on the steps outside the Truckee Veterans Hall. That team was such a blend of all the families involved. I don’t believe I have ever met his wife, Sarah. But I pray that God will grant her peace and comfort, and that she will be able to share with their daughter, Savannah, all of the reasons she loved her daddy. And that she will enjoy every moment of Savannah’s life and treasure each time she sees Josh in Savannah’s eyes or expression or however his legacy lives on. I don’t intend to make any political statement by posting this. I do, however, wish to express my gratitude to those who have put and are currently putting their lives on the line to keep freedom available to us and to bring freedom to people who never had it. Regardless of whether the war in Iraq was necessary or not, our friends, brothers, sisters, parents, children, cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, co-workers, and more are risking their lives daily. And their lives are precious. God, Protect the military personnel (and civilian contractors) all over the world, who are risking their lives. I pray that you would show them beautiful things daily so they would not get overwhelmed by the violence that they see. I pray that YOU would be their guide and comfort. Remind them of all the people who love and support them. Lord, I specifically pray for the Kynoch Family. Grant them love, peace and happiness in this Holiday Season. May Josh’s memory always rest in their hearts, in their photographs and in their memories. Bring them people to be comforters and friends. Guide them down the path you have for them. Bless them immensely. Grant them “mercy, peace and love…in abundance” (Jude v.2). Amen.

I'll see if I can find any pictures of Josh from High School to post.

I Couldn't Agree More

You Belong in Rome

You're a big city girl with a small town heart which is why you're attracted to the romance of RomeStrolling down picture perfect streets, cappuccino in hand and gorgeous Italian men - could life get any better? Well, except the cappuccino part (I don't drink coffee), I couldn't agree more. I LOVE ROME. Some might even say I HEART ROMA.

What City Do You Belong In?

From Jana

Below is an autobigraphical story that Jana gave to me as part of my Christmas present. I present it to you unedited and without comment (except this: Jana Rocks!). Enjoy.

Watch Out, Crime…

Stepping over a Little Debbie Snack Cake wrapper and a discarded pack of Camels, I charge down the hall and stick the key into my mailbox. Peering out at me from the other side is something from Liz. I wind up the staircase, tearing into the envelope between my hands full of keys and cell phone and bus pass. I grin, then laugh out loud at the group of girls from Bible study posed on a fire engine.
Most of the mail that has come to my Turk Street mailbox has been from Liz. But then, I muse, that makes sense, seeing as how she is my best friend. Sending cards to people was typically Liz. Also typically Liz was the idea to make the cards in the first place. “It’s perfect!” she’d explained. We all looked fabulous and were all wearing red and green; a strange coincidence for a fall day.
As I unlocked the double bolt, to my apartment, my thoughts trailed back to that fun day. Liz had invited me weeks beforehand to join her church’s September
11th commemoration day, and I had looked forward to it since. Though she had been coming to my church for nearly a year now, I had not yet made the southern trek to Hillside.
I had joined her in the makeshift folding chair pews and we greeted one another warmly, as though it had been months since our last meeting. In fact, we
had just seen each other the night before at Hope Chapel. I was not disappointed in the service, and I couldn’t help but think how my friend’s heart must have come being soaked in this church surrounding. Later on in the day, we had sat down with our pot-luck laden plates beside Aimee’s mom. After a little small talk, she had asked, “How do you know Liz?”
I thought on that as I chewed my Veggieburger, and swallowed as I gave my reply. “We met at work.” Liz took over the explanation at that point, and I took another bite, smiling at our conspiracy to answer the phones, “Transworld Systems, what’s your favorite color?”
That, of course, was the least of the good times had by Liz and Jana, the most dynamic of all duos. It had all begun one day nearly a year beforehand, when my endless requests for “something to do” had gotten me sent to the department next door. Between un-stapling and re-stapling client contracts, I discussed my upcoming trip to France with the unfamiliar co-workers around me. Liz and I chatted happily as two who knew the magical experience that Europe can bring.
From then on, work became a pleasant an experience for me. I was always curious what fun accessories Liz might be wearing for the day, whether we’d be sharing lunch together in the breakroom, or who would be the first to e-mail the other. And whenever we both had a free evening there was always the chance to catch a movie or do some window-shopping together.
Of course, I didn’t explain all of this to Aimee’s mom. Not only was my mouth too full, but I didn’t think words could really sum up our friendship. Perhaps, I thought, it just shows.
That was a great day. A great idea, I repeat to myself as I tack the festive card onto my bulletin board. A great friend. God sure knew what we needed!
Yes, meeting at Transworld was just the beginning. Many wonderful memories would follow. Sleepovers and retreats. Movies and parties. Bibles studies and home groups. Tear gas and volcanoes. Mademoiselle Incroyable and Bomb Voyage. The dynamic duo.

I'm an Auntie (AGAIN)

My mom just called to tell me that the newest addition to our family is Elijah Marlin (my dad's name is Marlin). He was born this morning at 10:40AM in Pensacola, Florida. He was 8lbs., 15.8oz (I thought he was going to be bigger). I had a feeling it was going to be a boy. They didn't know until this morning. Elijah is number 7 for nieces and nephews and he is the 3rd boy. My brother, Ben, and his wife, Lisa, have two daughters: Tara & Lonnece. My sister, Heidi, and her husband, James, now have two boys and a girl: Samuel, Bethany, and Elijah. And my sister, Kathryn, has a daughter, Cheyanne (from her first marriage), and with her husband, Paul, has a son: Dylan. Dylan was born November1st of this year and I get to babysit him tomorrow night.
Kathryn lives just a few blocks away with her family, but all the rest of my family lives far away. Ben lives near Portland, Oregon, and Heidi lives in Alabama, across the border from Pensacola, Florida. But their next station (her husband is in the Coast Guard) is going to be Point Reyes, so they will live nearby again next spring or summer. It will be nice to have more nieces and nephews around. And I think they will all be excited to play together.
My brother and his family will be visiting this weekend. So we get to have Christmas early! Woohoo! My mom is flying to Pensacola right before New Year's to see her newest grandson and to help my sister out while James is at school.
Ok, well, I don't have any pictures of Elijah yet, but I'm trying to load a picture of Dylan from the day he was born (about 6 weeks ago). Isn't his aunt awesome?

Paul, Kathryn, Cheyanne & Dylan

I hope to have pictures of Elijah soon. My sister is usually good about sending out pictures (but, this is baby number 3).

PRAY

Dear Friends,

Casa Grande High School students lost four classmates in a car accident yesterday afternoon. I drove past the wreckage about half an hour to an hour after it happened. I instantly knew, as I was driving pas,t that it was a very serious accident. And I could just feel that young people were involved. By the time I was driving past, there were at least four fire trucks, a couple of ambulances, several CHP vehicles and two REACH helicopters were landing or just landed. They had removed the top of the car by that point. No names have been released, but they say the female driver and a male passenger in the backseat died upon or soon following impact and two others died while being treated at the hospitals. The other two passengers are still in critical conditon.

Please take time to pray for the two who are still fighting to survive, the families of all the victims and their friends and fellow classmates. When I was a freshman in high school, two accidents in one weekend took the lives of three young people I had known and although I wasn't close at the time with any of them, it was very traumatic.

Please also pray for the driver of the truck that hit the car. CHP says that he had no way to avoid the accident, but I know that such an experience cannot be easily brushed aside.

Click here to read the Press Democrat coverage of this story.

God, we don't know why these young people are taken away. But we do know that you have a perfect plan, always. Please guide, comfort, protect, strengthen, instruct, support and love the families, friends, teachers and classmates of all involved. They need you now more than I can imagine. I pray that all eyes, ears and hearts would be open to you, Jesus. Be the strong tower.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

God bless you all!

Liz

Content as a Willow...

I was asked to share some of my experiences in other cultures, specifically impoverished places that I've been to, at church this morning. The pastor was speaking on "Learning to be content in every circumstance" and preached from Philippians 4:10-13.

This is what I shared:

The first time I ever traveled outside of the country, I was 17, and I went with a group from my school to the Dominican Republic for 3 weeks. One afternoon, during this trip, several of us were sitting on an old woman’s porch, just relaxing and talking, when my teacher turned to us and asked, “Are you a willow or an oak?” Our initial reaction was “Huh?” Our teacher soon explained to us that although an oak tree appears strong and sturdy, the branches, in great winds, are easily snapped off, whereas a willow tree’s branches merely move with the direction of the wind. At the time, I said, “I am absolutely a willow. I’m flexible and I deal with change easily.”
I’ve found, in my travels since then, that the metaphor of the willow cannot be forgotten. Some people might call it “Rolling with the punches.” Paul says this: “I have learned to be content in every situation.”

Amazingly enough, at 24, I can look back and tell you about time I have spent in 12 different countries. In those times and in those places, I have learned what it means to be a willow. (Or at least how to try…)

Many of the countries I have visited are considered THIRD WORLD COUNTRIES. To them, anyone who has money in a checking account is rich.----It is when I visit these countries, and spend time with the people, that I am brought to the realization that I have far more than I could ever need. And even when you have just enough to survive, there is always a way to share what you have with others. IN FACT, I think that the less you have, the easier it is to give away. This is especially visible in fellow Believers.

In 2002, I went to Tijuana with some high school and college students from the church. My first, and most poignant, memory of the church we visited was a woman drying the floor of a classroom with her own sweater, so that we could move our sleeping gear in quickly. I was BLOWN AWAY by her sacrifice. I could not imagine myself doing the same thing. I probably would have suggested waiting, or searched for a towel of some sort. I know this woman did not own much, and she dirtied HER sweater to offer US comfort. The rest of the week, we continued to be amazed at how much we were blessed by those that we expected to come and bless. “THEY have learned to be content in every situation.”

A few years later, during my second trip to Mexico, I again witnessed generosity on a level far-exceeding my own ability to give. Every day that we worked at the church, many of the women made us a mid-morning snack (which was far more than a snack) and lunch. They went to great lengths to make sure we were fed without the chance of becoming sick—for example, they washed all fruits and vegetables they served us with bottled water. And they served every meal with a smile. Even when a few of us were exploring the city with some of the youth of their church, they refused to let us pay for the ice cream we ordered. It is humbling every time I experience these expressions of generosity. “THEY too have learned to be content in every situation.”

But that’s not enough. It’s not enough to just be impressed by the generosity and flexibility of others. It’s a trait that each of us must develop. For me, there are several ways this exhibits itself. Before I visit foreign countries, my biggest concern is whether I’ll like the food. And when I return, my biggest hope is that I will be able to be as content and generous as those we served.

I expected a recent trip, to Cambodia, to stretch my taste buds farther than ever. Those who know me know that I am one of THE pickiest eaters. (I was in high school before I ever learned--kicking and screaming-- to enjoy Chinese food.) But I recognized that there would be no alternative food available when I was in Cambodia and God opened my mind and taste buds to new and exotic foods. I remembered from my time in the Dominican Republic that what I feared wasn’t bad, just unknown. In a simple way God taught me to be content in THIS circumstance.

While I triumphed over my own fears in Cambodia, I recognized that my freedom to have these fears was not available for the people we served. When they had food, they gave thanks. They could not say “No thank you, I don’t like it.” Every meal was a life or death situation. I NEVER before witnessed this level of poverty. Each of our 8-10 sets of clean travel and work clothes looked extravagant in comparison to the few sets of clothing each age group of orphans shared. The treasured soccer ball was one of the only toys around the home, when almost every kid here has an overflowing toy box – I know I did. Work at the home and time at school was treasured, for they recognized that they were privileged to be taken care of so well.

Every time I return home from a mission, I am convicted of all the things I can live without. The believers we met in Cambodia were not only content with what they had but they were TRULY JOYOUS and readily offered their LOVE to us!

My most recent mission trip did not take me out of the country. Although I have always had the desire to see other countries and experience their cultures, just 5 weeks ago, I traveled to New Orleans to aid in Hurricane Relief. Several of these days we brought ice and water to affected neighborhoods—EVERY neighborhood was affected! Many of the people we met were just returning to their homes for the first time. Some were ripping out carpets and bleaching the walls, while others simply turned around, and wouldn’t – or couldn’t- look back. Each person we came in contact with, we offered to pray with. I never heard a single person turn us down. One woman in particular sticks out to me. She DEFINITELY learned what it means to be “content in every situation.” All of her worldly possessions: pictures, furniture, Christmas decorations, everything was washed away. She stood in front of her destroyed house and began preaching to us (who had come to minister to her). She said “God knew I didn’t need it, so he took it away... From now on I am only going to buy things that I truly NEED… I can’t justify buying things that I want... God is faithful to provide everything I NEED.” Again, I was blown away. Would I have the faith, and be content enough, to respond in the same way. I’m not sure. When I returned home, just like every other time I have returned from a missions trip, I started to take inventory of what I have, and more importantly, what I don’t need. Do I really need another pair of shoes? Millions of people in this world have never owned a pair of shoes. Do I really need a new sweater? People are freezing every day and I have 5 other sweatshirts hanging in my closet. Do I really need a new CD? No. That money could provide food for a hungry family.

Now I see that no matter how much I think I am like the willow tree, I still need to grow more flexible and quit trying to avoid the strong winds, but welcome the storms, just as I do the gentle breezes. When Paul tells us we need to learn to be “content in every situation,” he doesn’t just mean when we are wanting, but also when we have plenty. We need to quit desiring a little bit more and look at those who have next to nothing. They are our example of what it means to be content in every situation. Each time I meet them, I am reminded of that, and I NEED the reminder.

Liz Needs...

I thought this was pretty hilarious! Following is the top ten list of Liz needs according to Google. I, of course did not think this up on my own, but copied from another blog. I hope you find it just as funny.

My comments are in blue italics.

1. Liz needs a MAN! Hmm. Come to think of it...
2. Liz needs to put a lid on it! Nah!
3. Liz needs catchy slogan I've always liked "Liz is always right."
4. Liz needs to devise a budget and stick to it. Sho 'nuf.
5. liz needs to be laundered I bathed this morning. What more do you want?
6. Liz needs to be taught a few things about fire safety Really?
7. Liz Needs One More Taste Of Her Liz's Oozing Pastry There are no words...
8. liz needs to mine her own business "I can't mine other people's businesses?"
9. Liz needs help, but she doesn't want to involve the police. Always...
10. LIZ needs teeth Wow! That reminds me of the dream I had last night. Four of my teeth fell out. I was mortified. I've had dreams like that before. They are my least favorite dreams. Weird...

What do you think I need the most?

When I grow up...

I don't know about you, but I'm almost 24 and not sure what I'm gonna do when I grow up? And when exactly are you grown up. When I was little I figured 24 was way into the grown up phase. But I almost feel like I'm in between and don't know when that will change. Do we ever grow up?

I was thinking today of things that make me feel grown up and things that make me feel like a kid. I thought I might list some of them for you. Tell me yours.

This makes me feel like a kid:

• I still live at home with my parents.
• I don't know what I want to do when I grow up.
• Driving my parents car.
• Crying over stupid things that shouldn't matter.
• Getting REALLY sick (and having someone take care of me).

This makes me feel grown-up:

• Having a "real job."
• Driving really far to visit friends.
• Travelling with friends (sans parents). --specifically international travel...
• Carrying a purse regularly.
• Being an aunt (to 5 w/ 2 more on the way).
• Seeing my friends get married (and have kids).
• Realizing the kids I used to babysit are graduating high school, etc.
• Seeing 18-21 year olds and thinking "they are so young!"
• Paying for lunch (dinner, etc) with a credit card. (added 10-17)

I know there are a lot more, but those are the things that I thought of right away.

I would really love to hear what makes YOU feel like a kid/grown-up. Do Tell!

New Orleans

I just got my pictures back I hope to be able to post some soon. Thanks for ALL your prayers.

And We're Off...

My plane departs tomorrow morning from San Jose International Airport. Five people from our team of nine will be on that flight (through Houston) to New Orleans. The five of us, me, Katie, Angie, Gina and Jessica, are driving down to San Jose tonight (well Angie's husband Frank is driving us) and will stay with Katie's sister tonight. It's hard to believe I am leaving already. I spent most of yesterday afternoon and today getting ready. Went to WalMart, KMart, the bank of dad (actually I wrote him a check and he gave me cash--my paycheck hadn't cleared yet). I'm still not sure what to expect. I'm a bit scared because of that. I'm not scared for my safety, or health, but I'm scared because I know that God is going to show me some really intense things. I'm excited though, because all I hear from other teams is that Jesus is visible and spreading there. Please pray for me. Our team will be posting audio blogs at www.UGO4GOD.blogspot.com. Go there and see (or hear) what we and other groups are doing. I expect to take lots of pictures too so I hope to share them with you when I get back. Love you all.

Eye Of The Storm

You have to read this.

This is the account of a journalist who has been covering Hurricane Katrina. Most of his blog is photos, but this is straight from him. This is why I am going. The people he talks about are living miracles. Can you even imagine?

Break Out the Holy Boldness!

As I have been following the news of Hurricane Rita, I have felt so powerless and fearful for those who are in it's path. Today, I started praying: Lord, spare your children. It seems like such an inevitable, horrible tragedy.

But then I remembered this--Moses reasoned with God. When God got upset with the Israelites, Moses boldly talked GOD out of punishing them to the extent he wanted to. And, I too, can approach God with this HOLY BOLDNESS. I can ask God to do something miraculous. I can ask God to calm the winds, turn the storm or simply take it away, off the radar, as though it never even existed. I urge you to come to God with all the boldness you can muster. He WILL listen to you. And He WILL hear your pleas. God answers his people and He is merciful and just. Remind him of his promises to us.

God, This Hurricane is so frightening! And two hurricanes so forceful, one following another, seems like too much. Please, I beg you, make it go away. Have mercy on the people of this country. Don't just turn it the other way--cause it to disappear. Baffle the meteorologists. Show them your awesome power. And in this time, remind us to keep our eyes on you and not on the wind or the waves or the rain, but on your powerful plan for us. Whatever you do, show us your love and glory and mercy. Help us to respond to it and pass it on to those who don't yet know you. You are mighty and worthy, Lord. Amen.

Will you join me in Holy Boldness?

Katrina Relief Update

So much has happened (Wow, my blog title is boring) since I last posted here! So many people responded to the call for clothing and supplies to send to the Gulf Coast. I'm not going to list everything that has happened here. I hope you will go to www.ugo4god.blogspot.com to see what the 6 teams that have already left for the gulf coast have been and are doing. You can even hear audio posts from team members. And check out Jimmy's report from the time he spent there. What is happening is amazing!!!

And, exciting as all that is, I, too am going to New Orleans. I will be flying in on October 4th, and back home on the 11th. I'm one of a team of 8 (so far). I am really looking forward to it. I know that it won't be anything like any other mission trip I've ever experienced. And honestly, I don't know what to expect. I don't know what we will be doing. We just intend to go and help in whatever ways are needed. The group I am going with is pretty awesome. I am looking forward to growing closer to them and to God in the process.

Currently, there are a couple of teams from Hope Chapel in and around (or heading to and from) New Orleans. Please pray for them as they travel and serve.
Pray for Jay & Hal from Oakland (drive team); Crissi, Gary & Nancy from Santa Rosa (drive team); Marcus from Windsor driving to the gulf with supplies and then working for 6 weeks there), Patti, Maryann, Mark, Carrie, Sandie and Gina Dee from Santa Rosa (flew into Baton Rouge today).

Help Bring Hope to the Gulf Coast.

Am I Desperate?

I feel almost desperate in my attempt to educate people about practical ways they can aid the victims of Hurricane Katrina. I am so grateful for people, such as Lori Gonzalez and her family for their tireless and selfless efforts to bring supplies and people to the Gulf Coast.

Following is another e-mail I sent out (a few minutes ago):


Hey everybody! The video attached was taken by the team from Hope Chapel in Gulfport, Louisiana. When they set out on Tuesday, they had no idea what to expect. They just brought what they could and now are doing as much as they can to help. Unfortunately it's not enough. You can see the devastation in the video. And at www.Ugo4god.blogspot.com there are a couple audio posts with appreciation from Pastor Troy (our team brought him and his family a motor home to live in) and local people. There is also an evident need for more! One man was simply appreciative for dry shirts, but also explained some practical items they are still going to need for clean-up and rebuilding. Such as chainsaws, shovels, trashbags, gas and oil. Rudy (one of team members) called his wife during the church service tonight and when she asked if there was something she could relay to the rest of the congregation from him, he said "(Tell them to) Get Here!" The other thing they have seen is that the Red Cross is nowhere to be found in Gulfport, but the relief effort is being done by churches from all over the country who have rented RVs and trucks and trailers and brought as many supplies and workers as possible. (I also heard from my sister, Heidi, in Robertsdale, Alabama, that the Red Cross came and opened up shelters for refugees in her town and then left--the churches are truly doing the relief work: housing refugees, laundry, offering supplies, sending supplies by the truckload to other areas--she says that all the churches are coming together in this effort.) Hope Chapel intends to continue to send more teams as possible. If you can, GO!
Please check out the blog (www.ugo4god.blogspot.com). There is so much still needed. Not just clothes, but all sorts of everyday practical items, such as diapers, carseats, chairs, toilet paper, feminine products, sheets, garbage bags, towels, soap, shampoo, brushes, gas cans, and the list could go on and on. Also needed desperately: people and vehicles (please let me know if you can or know somebody who can donate or drive a vehicle or trailer with supplies).
If possible, I think I will try to go.
If you can help in any way, please contact me, I will be glad to connect you with the appropriate person, pick up donations, whatever.
Continue to pray, please.
Love,
Liz

God, continue to rain your blessings down. Lord, we are amazed that even what we normally think of as set backs, are blessings in disguise. Lord, we are so amazed that so many people have given that we are desperate to find vehicles to carry all the supplies to Gulfport. Please, please, please show us your way.
AMEN.

Helping bring Hope to the Gulf Coast

This is an e-mail I was compelled to send to my friends a few minutes ago.

Dear friends,

What were your thoughts after you heard or saw the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina? Initially I wasn't very phased by the tragedy (and I'm not sure why), but as the days passed and the situation really started to sink in, I realized that this was really bad and I could not sit by and watch it happen. Of course, nobody could have prevented this, but all of us can do something to help rebuild and restore lives devastated by the storm.

A few days ago, I was excited to hear that a group from Hope Chapel (check out www.ugo4god.com) would leave today to, not only offer relief supplies and any help and support they can give, but they would also bring an RV to provide a home and a base for a pastor's family who lost their home.

"So," you say, "that's awesome! But how can I help?"

Let me tell you some awesome ways to help (there is something for everyone):

1. GO
If you are able, find a way to go and help. There will be more teams from Hope Chapel heading to help (go to www.ugo4god.com for more info on how to get involved in that). Or partner with another relief organization such as the Red Cross.

2. GIVE
Money --- Donate money, if you are able, to this relief effort (besides supplies, they must purchase gas and return plane tickets home -- you can send or bring checks to Hope Chapel at 4983 Sonoma Hwy Ste D, Santa Rosa, CA 95409) or others you are connected to, such as through your church or the Red Cross. Please be careful to give to charities you know are legit, as there are many who will take advantage of the generosity of others for their own profit.
Clothes or other supplies --- Thousands upon thousands of people have been left with NOTHING! So many of the things we take for granted are needed by these people. If you have clothes or other supplies to donate and live in Sonoma County, contact me and I will make arrangements to get them to the Hurricane Relief Team. My sister (who lives in Alabama and has been doing laundry for hurricane refugees in her town) tells me that they are especially in need of maternity clothes, diapers and other items that may not come to mind right away, such as adult Depends. Check www.ugo4god.com and www.ugo4god.blogspot.com for other items that are needed. Clean out your closets, ask your friends and neighbors for donations. This is easy!

3. PRAY
This is the most important thing you can do. Pray for those who lost their homes, those who are treating and feeding and protecting the refugees, and praise God for the help of friends and strangers around the world.

No matter who you are or how much you have, you can do SOMETHING to help!
God bless you!

Love,
Liz

P.S. Feel free to forward this to friends and family. I know everyone is aware of the need, but not everyone knows how they can help.

"Give Until it Hurts!!!"

That's what she said Sunday morning. And that is what God has been telling me, but I didn't do it. I gave, sure, but it was only what was comfortable. When will I learn that God didn't say "Come to me so that I may make you comfortable?" And then I came home and looked at my floor and thought look at all those clothes, you don't even wear half of them...give them away. They have NOTHING!!! NOTHING!!! Literally NOTHING! This is not the nothing you say when you look in the fridge and complain that there is "nothing" to eat. This is truly NO THINGS. So, I gave, but I still didn't give until it hurt. God is still teaching me about that. I'm still learning to trust him. I want to give until it hurts, but I'm afraid.
***
God, When I give, remind me to keep giving, until it hurts, and then give some more. You gave until it hurt, and then gave some more when you sent your Son to die for me. Remind me of this sacrifice daily.
***
While I'm on the subject I just want to commend the girls in my Bible Study (you know who you are). Sunday afternoon, at about 3 pm, I called them and told them I was collecting clothes to send with a group down to hurricane victims. When they came to Bible Study at 7 that night many of them brought clothes with them. My family donated as well. This morning (Monday), we filled Jana's trunk and entire back seat with clothes to send. Rock on!!!

Jobs & Generosity

Jobs

A week ago, I got a temp job. And two days ago I told them that tomorrow (Thursday) would be my last day because I got hired elsewhere. This will have been my shortest job ever. It was weird though, because I still felt anxious giving notice even though it was understood that it was a temp job and my boss knew that I was looking for another job. Now, onto the other job... Starting Tuesday, I will be the Church Secretary for Hope Chapel in Santa Rosa. Since November I have been attending their Saturday night services, going to a Friday night Bible Study there, and making friends up the yin yang. Not to mention, I was a part of their second mission trip to Cambodia this summer. I am super excited. Before I went for my interview, I prayed that if this is where God wants me to be that He would make it so, and if He had really intended something else for me, that He would close this door. So, it seems that this is what God wants me to do, now I just get to wait and see what else He has planned in this. I am excited and nervous at the same time. I am kind of expecting God to stretch me sometime soon. So, I guess I am just waiting in anticipation.

Generosity

A couple of days ago, I was talking to my friend Jana about how I really enjoy being generous, but it was hard when I wasn't working, because I didn't have as much money. This morning a thought ran through my head, saying, "Stupid. You don't have to have money to be generous." I couldn't believe that I had forgotten so easily. EVERY time I return from a missions trip, one of the biggest things I notice and share is about how the people we meet have so little, but give so much. These people probably don't even have 1% of the wealth I have (and I would not consider myself wealthy at all) but they give and give and give everything they are able. Time, money, energy, blessings. I am the one who makes a big show of giving bags of gold, while they are the woman who quietly gives her last coin and nobody notices or cares.

God, teach me a lesson in sacrificial giving. True generosity. Something that doesn't need to be acknowledged and something that will stretch my faith. I love you, LORD, and I trust you.
Amen.

Here I am Again

"For I know the plans I have for you" declares the LORD, "plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope."

Jeremiah 29:11 NASB

I feel like I keep returning to the same place over and over again. I just can't get past this "waiting room" of life. I think it becomes so much more visible to me when many of my friends keep passing important milestones in their lives. I have friends who have already started their careers (teachers), friends who have a masters degree or are in the process of getting one, several who are getting married. And then there is me. In some aspects I have had the opportunity to do a lot (mostly in regards to traveling), and I wouldn't trade that for anything. But, I also feel like I am just floating or treading water trying to figure out which way to go. I'm 23, I still live with my parents, I never really did much with college (a few lackluster semesters at the J.C.), and I don't have a job. Now, this is nobody's fault but my own and, granted, I had a pretty good time traveling in the past few months, but for the past week or two I have been transported back into some form of reality that tells me that I really need to figure out what I'm going to do "when I grow up" (or at least in the near future) and I need to decide soon.
Maybe it might help to write down some of the goals I do know.
1. I would like to move out of my parents house in the near future (perhaps before the end of the year). I expect this will be with some sort of roommate.
2. Get a job. I'm afraid I may be extraordinarily picky, but I have this weird philosophy that one should like their job. And I know that I definitely don't want to work retail or food service (I will if I must...but would prefer to enjoy my job). This is one of the hardest tasks, because other than that I don't have any concrete idea of what I want to do. There was a time when I really wanted to go to school for interior design, and there have been times when I wanted to get into youth or music ministry and in high school I thought I was going to be a high school math teacher. I even have dreams of being a missionary at this time. But I don't have one clear vision.
For the time being, I assume I will get some sort of clerical job that pays enough to get me into an apartment. But I am afraid of getting myself hooked to one thing. I even have dreams of moving to a foreign country (and I have had enthusiastic response from several friends--I'm not sure whether to take it as encouragement, or as a "get away from me" vibe), but even with that, my thoughts are so vague. I don't know where I would want to go or what I would do once I got there. Being a grown-up isn't as glamorous as I thought it would be when I was 10.
Well, thanks for reading about my troubles and pleases be praying for clarity and focus in my life.
Lord God, You see I have had many desires. Please fill me with your desires and direct me to the path you have planned for me. I want to do your will and even if it is scary, give me the courage and strength to follow you. I need your guidance more than any time I can recall before. Please make your will so blindingly obvious that I cannot even attempt to ignore it. I love you, God.
Amen.

Sorry

I fully intended to finish my adventures in Cambodia, but packing took precedence. I did add weather stickers for Costa Rica (San Jose) and Nicaragua (Managua) to the sidebar, so that you can imagine the beautiful days (or thunderstorms) I will be having. I may be able to post while I am there. We'll see. I'll be sure to take lots of pictures. Please keep me in your prayers.