Patience Pays Off...

Though I may have been in a foreign country, ranch business never stops, and when I had time between shifts and outreaches when I was in the Philippines, I helped direct the sales and care operations of our ranch back in the US.

This last year, we found that our herd was increasingly becoming all white, because our color stock was more in demand So for the first time in a few years, we made some purchases of quality colored alpacas to infiltrate our foundation herd.

We found all the new stock we wanted by the end of July, but on a whim in early August, I decided to surf another online Alpaca Auction (almost as bad as horse shopping!! ;p), & found a "3-2" Gray Female Alpaca Package that caught my fancy & was in my price range. I thought, "Hey, it has a few days left, the lines are good, it'll probably go way beyond my reach, but why not?? I'll Bid."  Though I did pre-count the costs, I was still completely shocked when a few days later, the auction ended, and to my surprise, I was the highest bidder!!!

Black and Silver Gray is my speciality...for almost all livestock, and so I was pretty stoked. The one girl had just been bred, and since they were out-of-state, both were held until the pregnancy was confirmed and she was far enough along that it'd be safe to travel--meaning October. Unfortunately, every transport for almost 3 months kept falling through, and so God had a LOT of fun teaching me patience, as I waited expectantly for my 'girls'.

Today, "Violet" and "Essence" actually made it to our ranch. There is always a risk buying sight unseen, but I wasn't disappointed. And sure enough, Violet is pregnant for a Summer 2012 cria. Woohoo!!!

During this whole purchase and the many complications that came with it, God taught me a lot. I like to give first-rate service to our clientele, and sometimes it's frustrating when that is not reciprocated when I'm on the other end of the deal. However, God gave me grace, and abundant patience, and I was able to laugh it all off, and try to be a blessing.

I am reminded of the following verses....how good is our God, that He would continue to teach us, though we may be wayward and unwilling, but He in His mercy, as we seek Him, continues to train and teach us through all things:

For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.  For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.  For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.

~ 2 Corinthians 4:15-17 ~

1 Down, 39 To Go...

Well, I finished Chapter 1 of 40 today, and am now starting on the 2nd Chapter of my EMT Manual. My Quiz Score was  85% (3 wrong), and even with that, I am already learning so much.  The program is set up really well, and the Contact People are easy to work with when you have questions.  EMT Fire Training has really tried to make it's program user and learning type friendly, and my little siblings are jealous, because I get to play 'crossword puzzles' to help me memorize the different names, etc. :)

Star of Life

This first section is completely Preparatory, meaning it covers the basics of everything EMS. For instance, this first Chapter gave an overview of what EMS is all about, what our Scope of Practices are, etc. etc.  The next chapter is on Workforce Safety.  Already, I am learning so much that can be used for every aspect of Health Care, and not just for Medical Emergencies (which is why I'm enrolled in this course).

Though I know the course will become more complicated and challenging as I start memorizing more and more, I'm looking forward to the Fundamental Knowledge I'll be learning, that I know will assist me an every area of life.  As it was said at my dear friend's RN Pinning Ceremony last night, 'though the coursework is tough, the outcome is worth it, and it changes you (for the good), and gives you life-long skills'.

For the Lord GOD will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed.

 ~ Isaiah 50:7 ~

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy (ruhamah), and find grace to help in time of need.

~ Hebrew 4:16 ~

Smart...

Rachel and I were teaching my 7 year old brother, James about the value of money today, when I remembered the following poem...."Smart" Proves the point, eh??

My dad gave me one dollar bill

'Cause I'm his smartest son,

And I swapped it for two shiny quarters

'Cause two is more than one!

And then I took the quarters

And traded them to Lou

For three dimes -- I guess he don't know

That three is more than two!

Just thenm, along came old blind Bates

And just 'cause he can't see

He gave me four nickels for my three dimes,

And four is more than three!

And I took the nickels to Hiram Coombs

Down at the seed-feed store,

And the fool gave me five pennies for them,

And five is more than four!

And then I went and showed my dad,

And he got red in the cheecks

And close his eyes and shook his head--

Too proud of me to speak!

~ Shel Silverstein

For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it.

~ Ecclesiastes 7:12 ~

An Essay From Samuel

For school today, my 13 year old brother, Samuel wrote the following Essay:

In the colonial days, taking care of the sick was much different than today. The people didn't know what the flu or other sicknesses came from unless it was obvious. Because of their lack of knowledge, contagious sicknesses often proved deadly. There weren't many hospitals and very few doctors, so the mothers would resort to using herbs for remedies. Even though they didn't taste or smell very pleasant, many herbs like Mullein for coughs and Helichrysm for wounds proved very effective. The most popular herb--St. John's Wart--was believed to draw devils away. Herbs, however, were not the only means of treatment. Colonists also used tea for a cure that was made by burning frogs to a crisp and grinding them up into powder. Disgusting!!

There were many rumors about different diseases. Numerous colonists would blame the sickness on spells cast by witches or even evil spirits. There were also many queer thoughts about different cures. One of them was a cure for the fever. They would cut the sick person's fingernails and put them in a bag, which would be tied to an eel's neck. The eel would be put into water and when it died, they believed the patient's fever would leave.

Another superstition was that when babies teethed, doctors would have them wear a necklace with wolves teeth on it which they believed would help with the pain. The most common superstition, however was bloodletting. In trying to help the process of healing, patient's veins were cut open, and the blood was allowed to flow out. They believed in this cure so strongly that if a doctor was unavailable, the barber or the minister would do the bloodletting themselves. Today, we have found out how to heal the sick, but unfortunately we have gone too far.

The main problem with today's medical society is that many doctors care more about money than their patients. They sell them masses of unneeded drugs that take away pain and can lead to addiction without solving the root problem. Unfortunately, the people today don't realize that they are following a shepherd-disguised wolf. Even when information is discovered on how to heal most sicknesses, it is often criticized and suppressed. Home remedies also have their place, and thus the sensible will take the best of both worlds and disperse the love and kindness of mothers and the wisdom of doctors to all.

The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.

~ Proverbs 23:24 ~

Just a Testimony

"....my cup runneth over."

~ Psalms 23:5c ~

Manila, Philippines

That verse hit me hard when I read it today....God has so blessed me, and so filled my cup to overflowing...  This last week was extremely busy--in a good way: from helping my dad prepare for our Annual Staff Appreciation Party, to preparing for Sunday's Philippine Presentation, and everything else in between, and God sure made this verse true in my life!!

If you know me, I love helping other people, but it's hard sometimes to allow people to help me because "I don't want to be a burden"...a lie I know...but still something I battle with. So, it was overwhelming to have so many people pitch in to help with last minute preparations for the Meal on Sunday. I when I assumed I would just get all the last details done...whatever it takes, not matter if an "all-nighter" would be the answer. I guess teamwork is a good thing...something God has created. Something that I need to learn how to do well.

Where are my brothers???

Looking back, even an "all-nighter" by myself wouldn't have gotten everything done in time, and so I'm grateful that my precious family joyfully pitched on Saturday...sacrificing their plans for me. No less grateful was I than when I walked into the Church kitchen Sunday morning, to find my dear friend Alyssa already working in the kitchen!!! So many people lended their hands willingly to help...it was simply...yes, I've used the word a lot, but it's the best I know....overwhelming.

My Bukid Baby

The 'Surprise Meal' was Filipino Tacos....everyone raved about them, and I guess they'll become a regular around our house!!  I was told to plan for around 175 people, but when all was said and done, there were around 210 for the meal, and 225 for the presentation. Though there was a shortage of meat and beans, no one complained....and if anything, they got a feeling for what it was like in the Phils, when sometimes all you ate was rice 3 times a day. (Boy do I LOVE rice now!!)

As my mentor reminded me later, I asked God that it would be about Him and not me...that He would speak through me, and that He would get the praise, glory, and honor, and I know He did.  Though I felt incapable, He was there through my weakness-praise God!!

We serve a powerful God!! Praise Him for who He is!!

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.

~ Romans 8:28 ~

Salamat Kaayo Dios!!

Can you believe it is already Thanksgiving 2011??
When I was 9 and 10, adults told me that time flies faster as you get older. At the time, I didn't believe them....that was until I turned 12...then all of a sudden, I started experiencing the same thing!! And what do you know?!? Time flies faster with every year!!

Salamat Kaayo Dios....means Thank you very much God!!
Here are some things I'm thankful for:
- An all-knowing, all-powerful omniscient & omnipresent -- my Jehovah Rapha and El Shaddai
- The most sensitive, tender, wise, compassionate, understanding, listening, fantastic, and amazing father in the world.
- The most precious, perceiving, caring, diligent, detective mother in the world.
- The most priceless siblings...all of which I love and adore, and make me draw nearer to God, and teach me so many, many invaluable lessons and character qualities.
- An amazing house staff and ranch hands, who help us so very much, and who watch out for our personal well-being as well.
- The mentors, friends, acquaintances, and disciples God has blessed me with to both give and receive from.
- The finest church family in our State, who are adamantly seeking Christ and His kingdom first.
- Living out in the country on 50 acres of rolling hills, which is next to 10,000 acres of forest, and still only being 15 minutes from town.
- All of our currently 60+ animals (not counting the mice, voles, frogs, crickets, stinkbugs, spiders, snakes, and many wildlife....including the 6 elk and 1 moose in our pasture yesterday).
- The opportunity to serve God both her in the US and in foreign countries as well.
- The opportunity to spend 3 months in the Philippines, delivering babies, encouraging women, and encouraging villages in the Bukid.
- Being able to see clearly 90% of the time, and not having to wear glasses (which didn't always help)
- Being able to still hear sounds of God's creation, music, voices, and laughter...and, a baby's first cry.
- Being able to feel and touch without any inhibitions (the only 1 of my 5 senses that I have almost completely).
- Being able to smell and taste, even though it may be limited....how more delicious can something be than mint, jalapenos, cherries, and olives??
- My fingers...that though they have a mind of their own on the piano sometimes, that God has gifted them to do His work.
- Playing the piano unto the Lord.
- Being able to walk without crutches...(though sometimes I'm ungrateful to God that He didn't make me have to use them for more than 3 months!! They were SO useful!! lol)
- Having the open relationships I have with our clientele, veterinary clinics and WSU.
- Computer technology...what a lifesaver...(and a potential time waster if you're not careful! ;p)
- Cameras...Canon is my favorite. :D How precious it is to be able to go out on the hillside and capture memories!!
- Language learning......thank you God that I can pick them up fairly easily (especially when I'm in that language's country! ;p)
- My online studies...both Midwifery and EMT.....how much I'm learning!!
- Sutures and lidocaine, essential oils and traumeel, needles and syringes.
- Jugular Vein....most fun to draw blood from!!
- Molly and Raphya.....how much they taught me...the one-my babysitter/ever ready listener, the other-the perfect example of meekness..."Strength Under Control".
- The many times I got bucked off, and the lessons I learned of how to stay on a horse.
- Foal and Cria Imprinting.
- Good books....auto/biographies, medical, historical fiction, mystery, detective, veterinary.
- Organizations like Idaho Chooses Life, ACLJ, Good Samaritan Rehabilitation Center, Compassion International, No Greater Joy, IBLP/ATI, Vision Forum, Alert Academy, Mercy in Action, Newlife International, & Idaho Character Foundation.
And SO much, much more!!!

As we prepare for Thanksgiving tomorrow, remember that it is not just a holiday, but a day to spend a day in complete Thanksgiving unto the Lord. Remember that "holy" means set-apart.....may it be a holy day...a set-apart day.

And then ye will offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving unto the LORD, offer it at your own will.

~ Leviticus 22:29 ~

Here's my challenge for you. See if you can not once complain, murmur, or let a disparaging remark pass your lips, but only let uplifting, righteous, and encouraging words pass them.

Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth labourers into His harvest.

~ Matthew 9:37-38 ~

Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessings, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

~ Malachi 3:10 ~

He is Faithful

This last weekend was tough for me......we had 3 alpacas die in a matter of 2 days...for various reasons.
One cria didn't have the stamina to survive the winter because his mom was really sick (she humanely euthanized later), and supplementation for a male cria who isn't 'worth' the $300 to give a plasma transfer to is difficult.

After doing what we could for him this last week to try to perk him up, he died Saturday morning. Then, Friday afternoon, I found my prized cria-Khinah, hypothermic for no apparent reason, and doing everything short of giving her an IV (which I was about to do), she died Saturday afternoon.

In that alone, I was at peace. What did Job (1:20-21) say after he had lost all of his (10) children??

"Then Job arose.....and worshipped (God), and said, "...the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD."

(Notice that he worshipped God...looking at the original Hebrew text, we find that that means he knelt down all the way to the ground in reverence to God. What an motivating response to an tremendous trial.)

Of course, living on a ranch, these things are bound to happen, and you learn to accept them as part of life, and are comforted, knowing that God is walking with you during it all.

Though I was at peace with all that happened, it brought up past memories....memories of finding out my first horse-Molly had a neurological disease and making the extremely difficult decision to donate her to WSU for research.

Memories of then, after finding the horse of my dreams-Raphya (meaning "healer") and later breeding her to the perfect stallion for an unmatchable foal, I lost both Raphya and her unborn filly-Ruhamah (meaning "having obtained mercy") (and $3500 down-the-drain ;p), suddenly without any known cause.

Ruhamah - my dream

Memories of alpaca crias, like Snowflake, who was born 3 weeks early, and would have most assuredly died if I hadn't spent the first 2 days of her life out there in the barn, stimulating and tube feeding her (which proved to be necessary) to keep her alive, and even eating and sleeping out there with her. After 4 months of investing all my energies and money into my 'baby' (I was literally her mom), she suddenly died (waiting to die in my arms), without any explanation.

Memories of what were once my specialty....my Nubians....like Mercy, who born in frigid January, got pneumonia, and was literally house-raised...and to this day, is the only goat who has ever slept in my bed (in our house) with me. Because of her ailing lungs and wracking cough, she couldn't get any sleep at night (and neither could I ;p), unless her head was on my head touching my face. Then she was fine. Unfortunately, a person who was feeding her one morning, accidentally got it in her lungs, which proved fatal, even though we tried thorough CPR on her (in every way, besides the AED/Defibrilator ;p).

After 2 years since Raphya's death (the newest and in some ways hardest), I thought I was over it all. But the bittersweet memories are still there, and since memories will never leave (usually ;p), there will be tender feelings at times.

Suddenly, feelings arose that hadn't raised their ugly heads for nearly 2 years.....why did God let Raphya die? Why after He gave me such promises of what Ruhamah was going to be...my dream...for roping, riding, ranching, etc. suddenly go down the drain? Why did my horse allergies have to get so bad after we got out of horses, so that when I ride a horse, I get asthma so bad that I'm out of commission for months? Why didn't he allow me to get another horse when they were once my passion?

Silently and sometimes subconsciously fighting all these feelings, God overwhelmed my spirit with peace. Look what He has given me!?! He has directed my paths to something different for the time being....having a horse wouldn't fit in with medical studies and mission work at this point in time. He also divulged to me that though that is not what He has in His plans for me right now, that does not necessarily mean that I will not live my dream of raising horses and cattle, sometime in the future.

Through all this, He directed my eyes to Him. He wants me to gaze on His face and not be distracted with worldly goods. I am His...His Pure Princess Full of Hope (oh Father, let it be!! Make me to know what that really means to You!!).

Most of this I didn't even fully realize was going on until last night, when I was talking to a dear friend of mine (what Paul called an 'aged woman'--in Titus 2:3--which in in Hebrew also literally means 'ambassador' [which according to the 1812 Dictionary means: "An official messenger and representative"]...what a wonderful thing!), who I look up to as my personal mentor, and was so very encouraged in the Lord through her. Praise God for His goodness.

As usual, God brought these verses to mind/in my personal devotions, and what a fortification they are!

Yet the LORD will command His lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night His song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life. I will say unto God my Rock, "Why hast Thou forgotten me? Why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?" 

As with a sword in my bones, mine enemies reproach me; while they say daily unto me, 'Where is thy God?' Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? 

Hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise Him, Who is the health of my countenance, and my God.

~ Psalms 42:8-11 ~

The LORD is my strength and song, and is become my salvation. I will praise Thee: for Thou hast heard me, and art become my salvation. This is the LORD's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. 

This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Thou art my God, and I will praise Thee: Thou art my God, I will exalt Thee. O give thanks unto the LORD; for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever.

~ Psalms 118:14, 21, 23-24, 28-29 ~

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

~ Psalms 121:1-2, 8 ~

He also brought the following 2 songs to mind:

Maker of this heart of mine, You know me very well

You understand my deepest thought, more than I know myself

So when I face the darkness, when I need to find my way

I trust in You, Shepherd of my heart

Keeper of this heart of mine, Your patience has no end

You've loved me back into Your arms, time and time again

So if I start to wander, like the lamb that goes astray

I'll trust in You, Shepherd of my heart

You're the beacon of my night, You're the sunlight of my days

I can rest within Your arms, I can know Your loving ways

So let the cold winds blow and let the storms range all around

I trust in You, Shepherd of my heart

Giver of this life in me, You're what I'm living for

For all my deepest gratitude You love me even more

So as I walk through darkness, listening for the Master's call

I'll trust in You, Shepherd of my heart

I have a shelter in the storm when troubles pour upon me

Though fears are rising like a flood my soul can rest securely

O Jesus, I will hide in You--my place of peace and solace

No trial is deeper than Your love that comforts all my sorrows

I have a shelter in the storm when all my sins accuse me

Though justice charges me with guilt, Your grace will not refuse me

O Jesus, I will hide in You--who bore my condemnation

I find my refuge in Your wounds, for there I find salvation

I have a shelter in the storm when constant winds would break me

For in my weakness, I have learned Your strength will not forsake me

O Jesus, I will hide in You--the One who bears my burdens

With faithful hands that cannot fail, You'll bring me home to heaven

I pray this post is as much a blessing to you reading it (if you could get through it all ;p), as it was to me writing it. OUR GOD IS SO FAITHFUL!!!! IT IS OVERWHELMING!!! Come before Him this Thanksgiving with hearts of praise.

Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before His presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD, He is God: it is He that hath made us and not we ourselves; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture. 

Enter into His gates with Thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name. For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations.

~ Psalms 100 ~

Philippines Presentation

Many people have asked me to share what God did during my time in the Philippines, and so, after much procrastination (and a very busy schedule ;p)......

You Are Invited To

Serving God in the Philippines

__ a Philippines Presentation __

By Sarah Pinkerton

DATE: Sunday, December 4th, 2011
TIME: Following the morning service (around 1 pm for the meal, and 2 pm for the presentation)
WHERE: Grace Bible Church (152 West Prairie Ave / Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815)
Morning Service starts at 11 am sharp, and usually ends around 12:30pm.)
DETAILS: Instead of the regular Potluck meal (because it is the 1st week of the month), a delicious Surprise Filipino meal will be provided with a Slideshow Presentation following.
WHAT TO BRING: A small dessert to share
If you have questions regarding anything (including food allergies), please email me/comment.

But the LORD said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD. Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth. See, I have this day set thee...to build, and to plant.

~ Jeremiah 1:7-10 ~

No RSVPs are necessary (though if you do let me know if you're coming for lunch, it'll make it easier to know how much food to make!! :) Hope to see you there!!!

Also, if you think about it, please pray for me as I prepare to share, that it be edifying and not drawing attention to myself, but just giving a testimony to what God is doing. I have the opportunity to share to many young people who will be there as well, and really really want God to work through what I say bless and encourage them.

Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

~ I Timothy 4:12 ~

Kisses From Katie

A friend passed this onto me....I hope it is as much a blessing to you as it was to me.

KISSES FROM KATIE

What dedication, perseverance, and love!!! If you think about it, keep Katie in your prayers, because those who serve God, are sought out by Satan and his demons, to be persecuted and tried more sorely.

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeing who he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.

~ 1 Peter 5:8-10 ~

DNR Guidelines

My 2nd assignment was very interesting. Because my EMT program has students enrolled from all over the US and in other countries, they asked that we research and write a basic summary on the  the Do Not Resuscitate protocol for our home state.

Here is what I found for Idaho:
The Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) guidelines for Idaho are as follows:
In order for the DNR protocol to take place, patients must have indications of a respiratory or cardiac arrest AND either have a valid and intact Idaho POST/DNR or bracelet; a signed DNR order from another state; or be wearing DNR identification jewelry.

Contraindications of this protocol include when the maker of the form or physician has revoked the DNR order; the DNR order is not physically present or has been defaced or destroyed; or there are verbal or physical threats from bystanders.

While attempting to determine the patient's DNR status, perform routine patient assessment, resuscitation, or other medical interventions.  If a valid DNR order or DNR identification jewelry is found, obtain reasonable assurance that the patient is the person for whom the order was written.

If resuscitative efforts have been started before learning of a valid DNR order, stop the resuscitative efforts immediately.  If it is determined that the patient does NOT have a valid DNR order, proceed with all resuscitative efforts within scope of practice, and do not discontinue efforts before receiving permission from medical control.

The DNR order may be disregarded only if there is a good faith belief that the order has been revoked, to avoid confrontation, or is ordered to do so by the attending physician (an attending physician is a physician licensed in Idaho who is selected by, or assigned to, the patient and who has primary responsibility for the treatment and care of the patient.  The attending physician can also be an EMS online medical control physician.).

If the patient has severe trauma, is involved in a mass casualty incident, or there is evidence of homicide or suicide, the EMS provider is not required to attempt to locate a POST form or jewelry.

If the patient IS in respiratory or cardiac arrest and DNR status is confirmed, EMS providers WILL NOT initiate CPR, provide ventilatory assistance, initiate cardiac monitoring (unless to confirm death), defibrillate the patient, or administer resuscitative medications.  They will however provide comfort care and emotional support to the patient and family members.

If the patient is NOT in respiratory or cardiac arrest, EMS providers will attempt to determine if the patient has a POST form and will follow the patient's treatment choices listed on the patient's POST form, if available.

After care of the patient is accomplished, complete the Idaho EMS Patient Care Report, stating in the narrative how the patient was identified, what events occurred during the EMS run, what verbal attending physician orders were, and the patient's outcome.

My sources are:
Idaho EMS Guidelines for DNR v.0708
Idaho Senate Bill No. 1418 (not used for this research, but still fascinating)

It was a good reminder that life is sacred and that the life is in the blood.

For the life of the flesh is in the blood...for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.

~ Leviticus 17:11 ~

EMT Training......Here I Come

Last Tuesday, I officially signed up for the EMT Class, and completed my first assignment (which was all of writing out why I wanted to become an EMT).
Here is what I wrote below:
"I want to become an EMT, so that I will have the skills to be able to help others on the foreign mission field, as well as here on the home front/ranch, when emergencies arise. I want to have the skills so that if/when something happens, I'll be able to help save life.
My goal is to become well-rounded in all things medical, including midwifery, veterinary, and herbal/natural medicine."

And thus it is, in short.
Even though I know that I have a lot of hard work in front of me, a lot of memorizing (hard for my dyslexic brain), I am VERY much looking forward to it, because I know that it is what God wants me to do.

Taken on my favorite day of the year: Shearing Day 2007

Onward Christian Soldiers!!!

The Miracle of Snow!!!!!!

As I write this, I am proudly wearing my snowflake turtleneck,  and am hoping to maybe get a complete season of skiing in this year (without any more of my "annual" casualties :D).
Today was the official "first day" of snow on Rockford Bay Ranch....yes, it only snowed for a little bit, and maybe you could hardly "call it snow", but it really did!!!!! Some people were praying for it to stop...and well, I, um... ;p *clears throat*

Though I have been laughed at a lot since my return to the Homeland, for my unprecedented sensitivity to cold, I still am an Alaskan.....and.....Idahoan through and through and snow still retains its miraculousness to me. It fascinates me.

Every year, one of the ways God shows His handiwork is through snow.  Without snow, which is the main source of spring water, we would not have enough water to last us through the hot summers.
God is the Giver of snow and has the only power over all the elements: In Job 37:6, He said: "For He saith to the snow, Fall thou on the earth".


Snow is the symbol of purity and cleanness, giving us some of our most beautiful passages of Scripture: "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow" (Psalms 51:7); "...though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow" (Isaiah 1:18). Carrying the figure farther, snow-water might be expected to have a special value for cleansing: "If I wash myself with snow-water..." (Job 9:30). The most common use in Scripture is to denote whiteness in color and implies purity as well: "His raiment was white as snow" (Daniel 7:9; Matthew 28:3; Mark 9:3; Revelations 1:14).

Also, the whiteness of leprosy is compared to snow (Exodus 4:6; Numbers 12:10; 2 Kings 5:27).

"He giveth snow like wool: He scattereth the hoarfrost like ashes. He casteth forth His ice like morsels: who can stand before His cold? He sendeth out His Word, and melteth them: He causeth His wind to blow, and the waters flow."

~ Psalms 147:16-18 ~

Praise God today for what he is doing in your life....all to often, we complain or only pray when trials and tribulations come. See if you can only praise Him for a whole day straight...don't ask Him for anything......commune with Him, and talk to Him about the 'trivial' things...He really DOES care!!!!!

Sandpoint Surprise

Okay, so I'm cheating....I'm writing this on 11/5/11, when I'm dating it September...but what do I care?!?It's been too long since I've posted....I know....and yes, I have meant to, but life has been busy. (Jolly good!!)

I had the whole loft (1 queen size and 2 singles to myself....that was pretty fun....Loved the quilt and style...)

Anyhow, these last few months have been amazing and wonderful, and God is doing so much in my life, through me, and in those around me.

First of all, I had a wonderful weekend with my parents at the end of September, at the Western Pleasure Guest Ranch, up in Sandpoint, Idaho.  Funny thing was, I ended up driving them there that night, when I had NO clue where I was going!!!

For not knowing where I was going, Mom and I packed pretty good!

That weekend, we went before God, asking Him what He wanted my focus to be for this next period of time. And, guess what?! He started giving us answers!!

As a preface, my dad has expressed his wishes for all of us (including us girls) to get a college degree, so that in case the world turns, and women have to have a degree to educate their children at home, we might be already prepared for that. Up to that point, I have been planning to get an AA (Associates in Art) in Liberal Arts (which was the most basic and broad-viewed degree), and already had almost 30 credits (out of a total of 60 needed), by the time I graduated from high school, in 2011.

On the other hand, God confirmed this summer, that to serve Him in a greater capacity, I really need to get a broader education in all medical studies, specifically: midwifery, general care, emergency medicine/"dirt medicine" (when there is/isn't any normal supplies on hand), herbology/natural medicine, & veterinary medicine.

For the last few years, I have asked God if EMT Training is something that I should do, but at the time, I didn't see any trainings available in my area (yes, I'm spoiled... I like to be able to multi-task everything at the same time. ;p). Then, just a couple of weeks before our time in Sandpoint, a friend told me about an online EMT Program that has its training right here in Hayden!!

Upon praying about it, and bringing all matters into consideration, my parents and I decided that instead of finishing my AA, I am going to pursue finishing my Midwifery Certificate, and get an EMT Certificate as well.

Since then, God has brought different people into my life who have either gone through the course, or are medically-minded that I may be able to glean support/help from. The way my EMT Course works,  is that I can sign up for the course and start studying anytime for it, but the quizzes don't 'open' until December 1st.  The course ends in the middle of May, upon which, I will spend a week at Camp Mivoden on Hayden Lake receiving practical hands-on skills training for 5 days. Before I go to the training though, I need to complete 10 patient contacts, or basically "shadow" either with a ambulance agency or through the ER. (I would much prefer the ambulance if at all possible...as I've seen the workings of the ER before--though maybe not from THAT angle. lol ;D)

I most of the "domestic skills" down, but there is one area we realized that I could definitely improve on, and that is the homeschooling area... I have been greatly blessed with a little sister who is a gifted teacher, and so I have been able to get out of teaching and have done administerial work instead. Well...I'll be helping with that some this year as well!!

My 2nd and beloved mare...Raphya (means "healer") She was my dream, and was pregnant when she died....but God is gracious, and He is the best HEALER....

As for the weekend, the food was tremendous, and for the second time since my beloved mare-Raphya died in Spring 2010, I got to go riding!! And this time with my parents too!! It was a 'dude ride' (never thought I'd ever ride on one..I guess "pride goes before the fall"!! lol), and so we walked pretty much the whole time, which was NOTHING compared to what I'm used too (galloping--my favorite).

My allergies have gotten worse with horses since we sold all of ours, and so I suffered from asthma since then as well...but it was worth it!!! lol
Anyway, that's all for now folks!!! Praise, glory, laud, and honor be to Christ my Saviour!!!

9/11 - 10 Years Ago

On 9/11 - 10 Years Ago, I was a mere 8 years old. We didn't watch TV and though we had a radio, we hardly ever used it. The thing I remember about that day was knowing my daddy was supposed to come home from Anchorage, Alaska that afternoon....the agony and suspense-wondering if he was going to die too....and then the relief upon hearing that his flight had been delayed a day or 2.

I remember for the next couple days our pretty strict bedtime gone, and just sitting around the table listening to the radio like they did in World War II, with our ears to the speaker....waiting....for what, we knew not.

At the time, New York seemed forever away, and in all actuality, I really only grasped the reality of what happened in the last few years. Everyone I knew closely made it....even the girl at our church who worked in one of the Centers but was absent from the building....

Now knowing what I know, my heart goes out and grieves with all those many families....what a joy it was for all of us kids to jump my dad when he came in the door....but what about all those kids who didn't and never will again??

This short but powerful video really impacted me with the reality of it all, and how God is still and always will be in control. I hope it impacts you as well. I can say no more.

http://blogs.blueletterbible.org/blb/2011/09/09/in-my-seat/

Travel to Liberty, WA

INTRODUCTION: As I said in the last post, I am accompanying Oma to my Uncle Jim's home in Sammamish, Washington with an overnite stop at his Cabin in Liberty, where we'll be able to spend some time with him (he has some things to do up there), before he leaves on a trip on Sunday. Next Wednesday, we'll pick up Grampaw at SeaTac where he will be getting back from a Trip to South America-making 96 countries for this world-traveler!! We will then head back to the Ranch on Thursday or Friday, where I will be promptly swept off by my parents for a weekend at 'some place I've never been before', where will be seeking God's will on my life for the next year.

~~*~~

Got up at 6 am like usual for Family Devotions. After that, we had breakfast, I finished packing, and then caught up last minute with the kids...it's hard on a few of them especially to have Big Sister leave so soon after coming back...even though it is only for a week. 

James had begged me to go frogging with him (he is the world's best hand at it!!), and unfortunately, it got pushed to right before I had to leave (at 10am), and so we only had time to catch one, and I feel I rather more like "humored" him, than anything....but I promised I'd do a full-blown adventure with him when I get back..... oh that there were endless hours in a day!! I can't believe how fast my little siblings are growing up!!

Oma and I after we spent an afternoon at the hair salon last week.

Oma and I ran a few errands, picked up some food, filled up the gas tank, and then headed on our merry way for Liberty, Washington. On our way down, we (between conversations) listened to the 5 1/2 hour AudioBook "A Bride Goes West": a semi-auto-biography set in the 1880's about Nannie T. Alderson, a newlywed Virginian girl who married a Cowboy from Montana, and her life living in the "West of the West". Though I have listened to it before, it is always enthralling, and very well done. Even our boys really enjoyed it, and I would recommend it to anyone. Though is a 1-person narrative, afterwards, you think you heard more than one person, just because of the way it was written.

Miss the Alaskan Mountains!!

Right before we got to Cle Elum, we stopped at the amazing Thorp Fruit and Antique Mall, a place I am definitely going to visit before I get married....their 2-story Western Antique Mall is AMAZING!!! Good thing I don't have the assets for it right now (or the car space) ;), otherwise, I might have 'surprised' my mom with more "hopechest items".....(I'm already a joke with our ranch hands about "marrying Sarah off to get all her 'stuff' out of the house. lol ;D)

These Doughnut Peaches (that is their actual name) are sooo cute!! The peach on the left is of the top and on the far right is the bottom, so they almost literally go all the way through in the middle!!

I definitely got more wedding ideas...though of course, they're only ideas, and will have to pass my fiance's approval before they would be put in place. lol (no one on the horizon at this point)

Afterwards, I drove Oma a good long stretch. It was a bunch of fun, because we were so busy chatting, that we missed our turn off to the mountains, and had to circle around and find it, but since we had plenty of time, since my Uncle wasn't going to get to the Cabin until at least 6pm, we didn't worry about it. We had a blast once we got in the mountains, because besides driving a 'blink' through the Town of Liberty, the directions we had didn't have 'miles' on it once we got up into the mountains, and so we drove around a bit, trying to remember what the turnoff looked like. Finally we found it, and arrived at the Cabin at 4:50pm. What fun!!!!

THE TOWN OF 'LIBERTY'

There are quite a few amazing rock formations above Liberty...just amazing!!

Uncle Jim and Aunt Maria did an amazing job with their cabin, which I haven't been to since we had our Family Reunion/Cabin Raising Party there 8 years ago...lots of changes!!

This would be a gorgeous Honeymoon Spot.

My Oma...looking mighty comfortable!!

This outhouse is a favorite....you can only guess what I kept singing during my stay here!! lol

A closer look...grabeeah work Aunt Maria!!

After sitting on the front doorstep for a few hours--chatting, reading, etc. we went in and had dinner, as Uncle Jim had been delayed and didn't get in until 8:30pm.

Just a humble meal of scrumptious Chili with our favorite--Pepper Jack Cheese!!

 During our first day together, Oma and I found that we have even more in common than we knew!! We both share an insatiable love for cherries (anything), pepper jack cheese, and SO very kaayo much more.

After Uncle Jim got home, we had a good time all of us catching up, and though I retired a little earlier, Oma and Uncle kept on until 1:30am!! I'm so happy for them.

My uncle Jim (my daddy's 'double')...it's hard to keep my mischievous streak away sometimes living sometimes with someone so much like my daddy...but not used to doing pranks, they usually just stay in my mind....

For, lo, He that formeth the mountains, and createth the wind, and declareth unto man what is his thought, that maketh the morning darkness, and treadeth upon the high places of the earth, the LORD, The God of Hosts is His name.

~ Amos 4:13 ~

For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

~ Isaiah 55:12 ~