Bridesmaid Fitting

Last week, my Filipina 'sister' - Sylvette asked me to be one of her bridesmaids...what an honor!!
Today, we jeepney-hopped across town, including across the River to get my measurements for my bridesmaid dress, as well as take it to the Embroiderer's place.

Unlike in America, it is very inexpensive to have clothes duplicated here (literally), and very often seamstresses are hired (from their little shack homes) to make uniforms, fancy dresses, etc.. and boy, do they do a good job!! I would so love to sit under one sometime!!

For instance, we finally got the dressmaker's house, and after expertly taking my measurements, she picked a piece of the gray overlay (the colors are yellow and gray/silver), and after eyeing the appropriate length, her daughter held the other edge of the slippery fabric while she finger creased the fabric, and cut it (mid air). Then, she brought it to me, and made sure it was correct--of course it was.

Then we took it to the Embroiderer's and she'll embroider the whole skirt with black flowers...it'll be so pretty and unique!!

Ferry Fare (I like the 'English' here--especially the 'religiously' part)

It has been so long since Sylvette and I have traveled-just us, and it was so much fun!! On one of the jeepneys, there happened to be an American guy (mid-age), who was obviously there for. one. reason. Anyway, once Sylvette pointed him out (as 'uh oh!'), I thought 'oh bother!' and tried to (maturely) ignore him, while he flirted with the 35ish gal next to him.

She kept bringing me to his attention, and finally, he turned to me and asked where I was from and what I was doing here. I answered that I was from the US and was a Missionary Midwife. He said he was surprised to see an American girl here, since he pretty much only saw white guys here (well no wonder, considering on why he's here!).

More Waterfront Villages (similar to Isla Verde) on the Bankerohan River 

I then asked him why he was here, and after contemplating a moment, he said he was looking to live here, and after visiting quite a few places in the Philippines, thought Davao would be the place... Sure...

It was funny, because there were about 8-9 of us in the Jeepney, and only 2 of us were Americans... Sylvette has told me before that Filipinos think that Americans are often unfriendly --especially towards other Americans-- which is often true, and so you can only imagine how you could here a pin drop in there while EVERYONE is listening to our ...politely strained??... conversation.

Bankerohan River/Bridge

It was interesting, because it was obvious that he knew that he hadn't fooled me at all as to his reasons for being there, and knew why I didn't want to talk to him either....and thankfully he respected that, because honestly, I was pretty irked about the situation, and was doing my best to keep polite in those few short minutes..lol I really wanted to shake him and tell him to grow up and see what potential he had for good instead of taking advantage of women... Oh well, at least I can always pray for him!!

I asked Sylvette what she thought about the situation, and if I handled myself well enough despite the circumstances and she thought so, and found it quite amusing actually (which I did too, in a simmering type of way)...especially since it irked me so much after the fact... lol

A great buntag (morning) with a great tapos (ending) -- Swing Shift. :)

Tour of Mercy

One of my friends-Brittany, who I worked with in the Bukid last year is 'volunteering' at Mercy, while she studies her Midwifery course. Anyway, we live at the same dorm, and she has a great post with pictures of the Clinic (newly painted!).

TOUR OF MERCY

Enjoy!!

2nd (12th Catch)

Today was a crazy busy day... Last night, I worked the Night Shift, having traded it with one of the other girls, so I could have Sunday off with Rachel, before she leaves.. (Oh, that's right.....)

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT! My sister, Rachel is coming from Singapore to spend 4 days with me this weekend! I am so excited! It's going to be so much fun to show her my little world and have her shadow during shifts.

Anyway, in the midst of trading, somehow I didn't realize I was supposed to work Day Shift this morning!! --Which means I ended up working 17 hours back to back (with some short naps throughout).
I happened to arrive at Mercy at 9:30pm, right after a labor had walked in. She was full of smiles, and we midwives kinda just looked at each other like "I wonder how close she is??" Just so happened that she was 9+ cm (can't always judge a book by it's cover!), and right then and there, she was endorsed to me! This was her 3rd child, and this birth mimicked--almost minute for minute her last birth.

She labored very well, and birthed a 6 lb. 8 oz., 21.5" baby boy -- Aian Jake (pronounced Ian) at 10:01pm, after only 2 contractions!!! The fastest birth I've delivered yet, and praise God, she didn't tear in the slightest!

It was so neat, because this birth/shift was like I was picking up right where I left off last year....what a blessing!! Also, one of my dear friends stayed from Swing Shift to chart the birth--possibly the only birth we'll work on together... Memories made!!

Usually we have 'endorsements', however, this morning, the Supers exchanged info, because....we had 4 births between 6:10am and 7:24am!! 3 of which came in Fully!! So, you can only imagine how busy we were!!! My morning was completely full helping to Admit Labors, Chart Births, take care of our 2 Postpartum patients, fill Oxytocin syringes, sterilize all the instruments (since by 7:30am, we were out of clean cloths and sterile instruments), teach new volunteers techniques on different protocols (some of which I was trying to brush up on myself!), do bb checks, etc. etc. :)

Good morning!!! Then at 11am, a Bajao (tribal) patient came in--my turn was up again...just while I was trying to juggle 3 things. Thankfully, Ate´Suse (my first shift with her and Ate´Elsa together!! woohoo!), decided she wanted to take her on herself, which was a relief... It didn't really matter, because we sent her home shortly after anyway....but there were a few moments this morning that were...intense. ;)
This is what I live for....I would take a hectic, busy shift any day....Adrenaline kicks in, and any tiredness that was there disappears (sometimes with some assistance with good old Caffe´....)

I am appreciate your prayers!! Funny, cuz right before I left for shift, I sent an email to our church with an update, with a note that I'd be working Night Shift when they were reading it, and just so happens, that I had already delivered my 2nd baby by then--in 24 hours!

Before she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain came, she was delivered of a man child. Shall I bring to the birth, and not cause to bring forth? saith the LORD: shall I cause to bring forth, and shut the womb? saith thy God. Rejoice ye...and be glad with her, all ye that love her: rejoice for joy with her...

~ Isaiah 66:7, 9-10 ~

1st/11th Catch!!

Well, today, on my 6th Shift, I delivered my 1st baby of the year/11th baby total.  My last shift--when I completed my necessary pre-handles (observs, charting, and assists), I was kinda nervous about delivering a baby...but since then, God has taken that away completely.

Anyway, on with the story:
So, I got to Mercy at 1:45pm - in time for endorsements. Since we have to either walk or ride to MMC, since we live a couple miles away, we have to change into our scrubs at the clinic (like you do at the hospital). Anyway, I had just walked into the break room when one of the Day Shifters walked in and told me that 'my labor' was pushing, and I'd better get in there, or else one of the other Swing Shifters might catch it for me. (How everyone knew that I was up, I don't know...but I guess word travels fast!) So, I scurried into my scrubs, ran in there....and.....she didn't have her baby until 3 pm. LOL
End of Story.

Khiara...Sleeping Beauty... Meaning: Beam of Light.
Small and Dark.

JUST KIDDING! Okay...so: Details:
Andine--my patient was only 15 years old-16 in December. Her boyfriend was 18. She was G1P1, and proved to be an excellent mom. Her bantay (watcher) was her mom, who was very supportive. She labored well, though especially towards the end, she got very restless. The bb's FHT (fetal heart rate) kept going down...maintaining at 120, and then 80, 100, and 110 (normal is 120-160), and so we put her on O2, and did constant fetal head stimulation. When the SROM happened (bag of waters broke), there was moderate meconium staining--not a good thing)..but thankfully it wasn't too thick.

Andine's Family: Dad, brother?, Mother-in-Law/Wet Nurse, Father-in-Law, Bana, Khiara and Andine, me, and Mother

One thing that I have prayed for at every birth, is that my patients wouldn't tear (or at least enough that they need suturing), and so far, God has answered that prayer every time!! Praise God!!!! Anyway, Andine was small, and being a Tae Kwon Do player didn't help loosen her up any, except that she could almost do the splits! Anyway, I was pretty concerned about her potential to tear, but with lots of counter pressure, she only had a few internal skin splits--praise God!!

Such a good mother!! (Love her jean dress!)

Unfortunately, little Khiara--Andine's baby girl, who weighed 6 lbs 14 oz, and was a whopping 22.5" long didn't fare as well... Though she was born with a weak cry and opened her eyes readily, she was gray as death, had a nuchal body wrap (the cord), and had to have serious suctioning and free flow oxgen for a while. Don't worry, it wasn't a 100% stress/adrenaline-filled post-birth...but it wasn't laid back either. Her APGAR Scores were at 1 minute: 5 (-2 Color, -2 Tone, -1 Cry). 5 minute: 7 (-2 Color, -2 Tone), and 10 minute (hardly ever used): 8 (-1 Color, -1 Tone).

* You would like them to be above 7 or 8.

Anyway, the birth and postpartum--over all went excellent. It's always interesting seeing how different Supervisors do different things, and sometimes it can be a little frustrating, when you're used to doing something one way, because that's how the Supers you usually work with like it done, and then for it to be the exact opposite for the Super you're on shift with at the moment, but it went well overall, and a very good experience.

Then, at 7:30pm, I started charting for another delivery: actually for the gal that was a false labor 2 days ago, that I did the Initial Pre-Admit for, and after a long hour of pushing, she finally birthed a tiny 4 lb. 3 oz. little boy!! He was SO tiny! But she sure was happy!!

It is such a privilege to assist God in miracles...I'm so glad to be back hear doing this...though I do have to say that I miss Trauma/Emergency Medicine intensely...God has a plan though!!!

For Thou hast possessed my reins: Thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are Thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from Thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.

Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in Thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. How precious also are Thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee!!

~ Psalms 139:13-18 ~

FirePowerPens

My brothers - David and Samuel, have an amazing pen-making business - FIREPOWER PENS. They have their first gun show today, and just got their website up. The Coeur d'Alene Press wrote an article about it, and I wanted to share it with ya'll, and encourage you to look into this 100% North Idahoan affair.

They are truly one-in-a-kind, and worth every penny you spend on it.

One proud big sister....

The Best Day...

Today, I was on Day Shift... Dili problema, but I was a little worried..I (only) got less than 4 hours of sleep last night, and worked all day yesterday. It was so precious, because a few people happened to email me and mention they were praying specifically that God would bless my day today and would give me grace, strength and energy for my tasks... Besides being an immense encouragement, God did exactly that!

All 4 of these  I assisted in a 12 hour period... (There was 1 more in a 15 hr period who had just been d/c'd)

I haven't really said this before, but I was gamay lang (little) frustrated with this past week... Not to compare, but last year, by the time I finished my 3 months at Mercy, my Supervisors trusted me and were confident in what I did, and I knew my way around the place quite well.

I knew coming back, that there would be a lot of things different in the clinic, and it would take a while to get used to the way it works, and get back into the hang of things, and of course, I knew I would need to do more observs and assists before handling, and that's just the truth.

However, it was a little frustrating: The first 4 days of work, I felt like I was just sitting around the whole time, learning a lot of things, but gamay lang shy ko, ug it was hard kaayo (very) to get engaged with the birth room, or take initiative, and I felt lazy, and of no help: just doing the bare minimum. Which is perfectly reasonable looking back, as I was trying to learn the Clinic all over again and was only allowed to do the bare minimum depending on my Supervisor (less with the American midwives), pero (but) it was just frustrating, because last year, I was helping teach the new students, and now they were the ones teaching me things that I did just fine last year (like Clinicals/Prenatals)...and their Visayan was better than mine!!
Maybe there was pride at the root too....I don't know..all I know was I was struggling with semi-wishing it was the same, and trying to look for more ways to help, but feeling "helplessful". ;p

Anyway, today changed that. To start doing handles myself (delivering a baby), I needed 2 observs, 1 charting, 2 assists, and one Initial Labor Chart Admit... So far, I have gotten one completed per day, with an Observ both Saturday and Sunday, the Charting on Tuesday, and 1 Assist yesterday (after a good but a little frustrating "watching" clinical morning).

Today was different. By 7 am, we had 2 baby girls born (remember I start Day Shifts at 6am). The first was pus-pus kaayo (very fast), and the handler-Brenda almost didn't catch the baby, she came so fast! She was born at 6:13am. We had just started 5 minute checks, and I hadn't even started my whole heap of 'Assistant duties' (including cleaning up the birth supplies, and replenishing the Birth Cart), when Annabelle needed an Assist for her birth.

First assist of the day (yes, the little 10 y/o girl was her Bantay! :O)

Though her patient didn't birth for a about 15 minutes, I was definitely needed as Assistant the whole time, and another healthy girl was born at 6:55am. Then, I hadn't quite finished cleaning up and replenished both Assist 1 or 2, when a Labor came in, and I needed to Admit her...so I dropped the almost clean buckets, trashed my gloves, and admitted her to Erica. Fulfilling ALL my pre-reqs before handling my own!!! All within 1.5 hours.

My 2nd assist of the day

Erica's patient didn't birth until 8:50am, but I assisted her birth too. However, hers wasn't so easy, and we had not only a shoulder dystocia, but high mec, a blue baby, a nuchal cord, and hemorrhaging of 750 ml (not the worst I've seen, by far--but by protocol, anything over 500 ml immediately gets IVF--IV Fluids). So, Ate´ helped a lot too.

Erica and I with the 3rd babae of the shift!!

Then, before I could get the Birth Cart readied again, a labor came in, and as I was first up (woohoo!), I had to Admit her, and get her Labor history. Well, she turned out to be no where near labor, so we sent her home.  (I should make a note that the average time I spent being Assistant post birth was about 20-25 minutes, minimum.)

This little 7 m/o boy stole my heart with his occasional smiles, and loved holding my hand....(Unfortunately, I couldn't get a smile for the picture)

At noon, another labor walked in--the sweetest, cutest petite thing ever-due tomorrow!! Ate´ did an IE, and I would have done one afterwards, except it sackit kaayo (hurt bad) and so I left it at that. She was only 4cm dilated, but was 70% effaced with 0+ station, and her ctx (contractions) were every 2.5 minutes, lasting for 1 minute. She labored so well (I want to follow her example when it's my turn!), and would have been the perfect first-birth-in-a-year-patient, but there was no way she was going to deliver in the 1.5 hrs I had left.

I seriously contemplated making her into my cont, and staying with her until she was in postpartum, but that means I might have been here all night, and with only 4 hours of sleep behind me, I decided I should probably endorse her... She ended up having the baby (not sure if it was a lalaki or babae) before 6:30pm, with some moderate complications, but it turned out alright.

Anyway, in closing, today was a marvelous day... and I really feel like I'm almost back up to speed for starters, and am starting to almost pick up where I left off, and am feeling more capable in what I'm doing. Praise Geno'o!! There were some points over the last few days that I found myself comparing midwifery to EMS work, and I realized today, that it all has to do with adrenaline and keeping busy...especially at the clinic. For some reason, I get tired at the Clinic much easier (no matter how much sleep I've had), then other medical work, and I think it might be all the hormones and emotional 'stress'? involved in the process of giving life--as well as the heat and humidity.

Today really was such a good 'another' reminder that God's grace is sufficient for ALL our needs!!! And sometimes He sends it in multitudes of ways.... There are som many things I'm rejoicing for tonight...GOd is so gracious and good!!

Oh, I should give an update on the mouse.... In general, I am not afraid of mice...However, the girls and I were joking last night, after it squished under the door into our room, that it couldn't get to me, since I sleep on the top bunk...or could it???! So, remembering my fears last year of stepping on spiders and roaches in the middle of the night, I could only feel a little apprehensive--just in case about this mouse, who's first path of entry was most likely my backpack and gear right in front of the door.. Eek!

I had just gotten to sleep, when I heard rustling coming from somewhere close, and startled awake.. Ahhh! Then, mentally shaking myself, I knew it was silly even to think about it...it's not like I would really find a huge mouse or rat sitting on my chest in the morning yelling angrily at me...right???

Oh well...I guess it must have moved on, because just a few minutes ago, it scurried from the main study area to the kitchen...AGAIN. My friend and I both looked at each other and said quite unemotionally "There goes the mouse." (as if it was an every day occurrence...oh wait, is it??) ;p

I work Swing tomorrow, and am very much looking forward to a good night sleep, and possibly a first catch of the year tomorrow!! May you all have a blessed day my friends!!

And the heavens shall praise Thy wonders, O LORD: Thy faithfulness also in the congregation of the saints. For who in the heaven can be compared unto the LORD? who among the sons of the mighty can be likened unto the LORD? God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about Him. O LORD God of Hosts, who is a strong LORD like unto Thee? or to Thy faithfulness round about Thee? 

...Nevertheless, My lovingkindness will I not utterly take from him, nor suffer My faithfulness to fail.

~ Psalms 89:5-8, 33 ~

And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us: and establish Thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish Thou it.

~ Psalms 90:17 ~

Clinic/Swing Shift

Today was a busy day....got up at 6, helped open up 'shop' at 7:30am at the Clinic for Prenatals, which lasted until 12:15pm. Since I haven't done prenatals at Mercy since last year, and some things have changed, today I mostly observed...but towards the end I was supposed to do some of my own... However, that didn't really happen due to a few different reasons...all ok--so it was pretty much 100% watching and helping.. (kind of funny, since I was doing prenatals long before she even knew how to do them last year...but that's okay!)

A few of the girls from shift and I decided to walk over to Boodels - my favorite restaurant in Davao City - located only a couple blocks from MMC and have lunch...BBQ Chicken, Rice, and this Gingery, Green Onion Chicken broth...delicious!!

Swing shift started at 1:45pm..we were endorsed a few postpartums and a labor, which later was transported to SPMC (the hospital) for failure to progress, etc. I was endorsed a Postpartum for a very fun couple--the bana (husband) is a nursing student, and actually got to deliver his own daughter here at Mercy! He is trying to decide what part he specifically wants to go into: OR (Operating Room), NICU, or DR (Delivery Room). I guess the OR and NICU pay better, and so the OR is what he's really looking at. He was a jokester (as I had heard), and it was a lot of fun...

At 4:20pm, while I was doing Postpartum stuff with that couple, a Taxi birth came in...she had had her baby about 5 minutes earlier in the taxi, with minimal blood loss and no tearing, and so after quickly clamping and cutting the cord, we escorted her and the baby girl into the clinic, and got them situated. I charted the whole thing, and boy was that a little crazy!! Since I was going back and forth from the Birth Room (where the mom was) to the main room (where the baby was--getting warm), trying to write all the details.

I got to take care of her postpartum checks too. They named the baby 'Alina'.

Then, Kara's patient finally gave birth at 8:55pm to a little girl as well!! Teeny weensy! It was a hard first labor, and after trying most positions out there, and breaking the waters, and trying even more positions, the little thing popped out. She was my first assist this year, and it was great!! Only 1 more assist, and 1 Initial Labor assist (helping the gal into the clinic), and I'll be catching again...

Since my emphasis here at Mercy is to be equipped for emergencies in the Bukid, I will be trying to focus a lot of my time on making sure I'm confident conducting IE's and suturing...so keep an eye out for that. Praise God, all my handles last year didn't tear at all, (except 1?? And she didn't need sutured)..

Well, I have to work Day tomorrow...and that means I have 4 hours to sleep.... Good night everyone!!! (PS...  the mouse just squished under our bedroom door!!)

Shall I bring to the birth, and not cause to bring forth? saith the LORD: shall I cause to bring forth, and shut the womb? saith thy God. Rejoice ye...and be glad with her, all ye that love her: rejoice for joy with her....

~ Isaiah 66:9-10 ~

MMC Calendar

Mama (and anyone else who's interested), I added a widget on the lower left side, which shows my Work Calendar for the remainder of my time here at Mercy, which will be until after Sylvette's wedding on November 17th.

Please keep in mind that I live 15 hours in front of you...so simply change "am" to "pm", or visa versa, and add 3 hours, and you'll know what I'm doing!!
There are few different shifts:
Day Shift: 6am-2pm
Clinic Shift: 7:45am - (whenever we finish seeing patients)
Swing Shift: 2pm-10pm
Night Shift: 10pm-6am
AGDAO Outreach/BCG Clinic (depende)

As you can see, October will be a VERY busy month!!

3rd Shift

I had Day Shift today....we were only endorsed a PostPartum from last night (born at 12:05am). However, at 6:55am, a labor walked in, and at 7:03am, she started pushing. I charted the whole thing..and a beautiful baby girl was born at 7:18am with placenta out at 7:31am!! Little Samantha...

Here I am with Violet--one of the 1st year 'volunteers', who observed the birth. She's a bit younger than me (there's actually a few this year that are younger than me!! And a few that are just my age too.) She's an EMT also, and is super sweet...

 The rest of shift was pretty dead..we had some postpartums come in, referred a labor, and sent some gals home. At 1pm, all the girls had class, so it was just 3 of us intern volunteers managing the birth room..until all of them got out....

I left at 3pm to spend the rest of the afternoon shopping with Karissa at Victoria Mall. We had a lot of fun, and decided to eat ice cream on the mall steps...until the guards shyly informed us that we shouldn't....it was absolutely hilarious..but you would have had to have been there to understand...
We certainly made some wonderful memories!!!

Afterwards, we spent some time figuring out plans for a couple weekends from now....which I'm sure you will hear about!! ;p And, I got to play the piano for the first time in a week!! What a wonderful feeling....

Tonight, we had more fun with that little mouse I was telling you about. I had scarcely started to walk in the door tonight, when I was informed that the mouse was on my left...oh well!! I guess it had been wandering around, and he continued to do so for the rest of the night. We decided to name him Ralph...and I suppose he is now almost a bit of a pet! We had great fun watching it during supper (when it was appear), scaring each other, and even better, when it ran across one of the girl's feet when she was trying to climb into bed!!

Now it's back in the kitchen...it's rather cute, and for some reason, even with all the threatening, none of us have killed it yet. Tomorrow is sure to bring more fun!! However....I'm working Clinic and Swing, so I won't be here to see it at all!!
Until later.....

Mouse Ballad

So, as I was writing my last post, one of the girls told me that there was a mouse under our kitchen sink. After I finished writing, I decided to get a quick midnight snack before hitting the sack (since it is almost midnight), and was reminiscing over all my mouse stories...

Well, I heard him...he was playing with the plastic bags under the sink!! So, I decided to open up the cupboard, but saw him kind of dart, and kind of jumped, and so missed seeing him. Well, I would have tried to catch him, but it was discouraged as he is contained right now (supposedly), and he might get into the house....so I suppose we'll continue living with him -- under the sink -- for a few more days.
I have a feeling that this story is not finished...whether I am here when it is? I know not.... A song anyone?? ;)

Oh, did I tell you all about the dead drowned cockroach I found in our water bucket in our shower the other morning?? What a great thing to find when you're already in the shower!! (not) First one I've seen in this house.. I'm sure there are more!! Let them come.....JUST LEAVE MY TOOTHBRUSH ALONE!!! XD

Oh, did I tell you about the sirens this morning? I think there must have been a fire or something, because for 15 minutes, sirens kept going by....sounded like the engines and a few ambulances....reminded me of home...good memories...

A GIANT Cockroach -- Britney, this one is for you!! How disgusting can they get?? I would scream.... (Don't worry, I just found it on Google)

Sweet dreams everybody!! I know how much sleep I'm going to get tonight...

2nd Shift

Happy Sunday everyone!! I had a relaxing morning sleeping in, getting semi-unpacked (there are a lot of girls in our room, and hardly any empty spaces left=okay lang), having devotions, doing laundry, and fellowshipping with other girls.

Swing Shift started at 2pm, and our first baby was born at 2:51pm. It seemed like all the action came about 10 minutes after endorsements finished and most of the Day Shifters didn't end up leaving until past 4pm. We had another baby born at 3:30, a few labours, and a transport.
I was able to observe the birth of little Samantha, and helped chart towards the end as well. Her mom was so calm in delivering her!! It was her first birth too... I want to be just like her when my time comes. Poor girl, the baby had 2 nuchal hands--1 by her face and an 'invisible one' (by her chest), which created a small pocket tear, but it was all good and well.

After about 5 pm, it got really quiet, and all we endorsed was a Labor (who started pushing as we were leaving), with both births having already been discharged for the night.

So, I have my mandatory observes out of the way, and so can start really 'charting'/assisting...

I am off tomorrow, and so will probably be helping Sylvette with more wedding plans, amongst other things. Maayong Gabi'i!! (Good night!)

First Shift/Week

Thursday, was my catch up day... I skyped my family, blogged, caught up on some emails, and slept....Oh, and helped clean up the kitchen after dinner. ;p

Friday, I spent the morning with my dear friend and Ate´Josephine, who I worked with at Mercy last year, before God called her back to her village to be a midwife there...We all miss her a ton at Mercy, and I felt very privileged to be able to spend a couple hours with her spontaneously when she happened to be in town.

Then, that afternoon, Sylvette, and a few other midwives and I (sorry, no pictures!) did some shopping for her wedding coming up. Sylvette is my Filipino sister and so special and dear to me. I am so excited to be able to be a part of preparing for her special day, and to see her joined with her longtime sweetheart in November.

Unexpectedly, it looks like I might be hosting an out-of-country visitor in the next few weeks!! Stay tuned to hear more details!!!

This morning -- Saturday -- was my first shift: from 0600-1400. Actually, we're supposed to be there 15 minutes early for endorsements, and adding in the 20 minute walk from our dorm to the clinic, and prepping before that, oh and don't forget changing from your street clothes to your scrubs at the clinic, I'm getting up between 4:30-4:45am minimum. Of course, if I want any real long morning-time for devotions, or didn't have stuff prepped the night before, I'd better be up at 4!!

Guess I'll get lots of practice this month, since I have a ton of Days on schedule. Actually, though I wrote the last paragraph 110% sarcastically, I actually have a big praise. In the past, Day Shift has been extremely hard for me (and that is when we lived RIGHT next door to the clinic!) Seemed like I was often late, or my alarm didn't work or something...so needless to say, last night, I was a little bit petrified.
Like a good girl, I set my alarm, prayed God that I wouldn't miss it, and woke up numerous times in the night, wanting to make sure I didn't miss 'wakeup time'... God woke me up at 4:45am exactly, and I wondered why my alarm didn't go off... Guess what?? It was set on PM instead of AM *forehead slam!* Well, I guess like normal, I can throw the alarm away...oh wait, that would mean my phone...nope, guess I shouldn't do that!! ;p Isn't God so good!! It was like my little reminder for the morning:: GOD IS ENOUGH!! HE IS HERE FOR US EACH STEP OF THE WAY!

Also, the last few mornings, I have woken up around 4:30am with lots of energy, and I'm so grateful for that!!! Praise God!! The weather was beautiful this morning and made for a beautiful walk... It's kinda funny, because we girls have 2 dorms, a block apart, and in a world or brown faces, it almost feels like there is 'something up' for all these girls to gather from different places at a semi-certain time and walk to this certain distant place in the early morning (but not all completely spread out...a little like oblivious). I mean, if I were a Filipino, I'd almost feel like it was almost like the FBI or something...lol Anyway.

So, normally, you have to do a large number of observes, chartings, and assists before you can actually handle a delivery yourself, but because I have previous experience at Mercy, all I need to get is 2-3 Observes, 1 Chart, 2-3 Assists (including an 'Admit Labor and Charting')...

SO, we had just finished endorsements, when one of the other girls' conts. (Continuity of Care) went into full blown 2nd Stage labor, and at 6:19am I checked off my first Observ!! A beautiful, chubby, healthy 8.5 lb girl (Isabella Alaya) was born with minimal problems, though we did have a slight but easily fixed shoulder dystocia and she was pretty blue and nice amount of molding (on the head). Her 5 minute APGAR was a 10!!!

I need to work on being photogenic! lol

It's funny being back at the 'Observ Stage' but it's really good, because I tend to be really reluctant to do anything but watch at the beginning of learning anything....especially if I think I might know something about it. However, I got to be the 'go-fer' for the birth, completed a 3 week bb check, and got to bathe Isabella and do complete vitals. Shift was pretty slow, so we rolled a ton of gauze too (a process of cutting, folding, and then wrapping the gauze in paper in an Origami-type way--thanks Benjamin for teaching me Origami so long away!!).

Another quick praise...This month, I have a lot of shifts with one Supervisor that I didn't work with much last year, but every time we did (including the shift I had my first handle on), it wasn't really a good experience...we just didn't 'click' like I did with the others. Anyway, today--my first time working this year, she was my Super and I was nervous...okay VERY nervous.

Praise God, it was SO good!! I'm actually really looking forward to working with her the many shifts this month, and though it may take a little more work to build a super-good relationship, it will be very good... Am I being redundant? Sorry!! Maybe I should start writing in Visaya... lol Joke lang!! ;p

This afternoon, Karen, Nadine and I went to Al Davinco, and got some things which was fun!! Tomorrow I work Swing Shift with Ate´ Esteph, and I'm REALLY excited!! I haven't seen her yet, and I think it'll be a good day. Quick note though (if you think about it, pray for us!) I guess in past years, September 16th (tomorrow) has consistently been the busiest day of the year. The last 2 days have been really busy as it is...so, who knows what could happen!!!

We will rejoice in Thy salvation, and in the Name of our God we will set up our banners: the LORD fulfill all thy petitions. Now know I that the LORD saveth His anointed; He will hear him from His holy heaven with the saving strength of His right hand. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the Name of the LORD our God.

~ Psalms 20:5-7 ~

Hear my prayer, O LORD, give ear to my supplications: in Thy faithfulness answer me, and in Thy righteousness....I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Thy works; I muse on the work of Thy hands. I stretch forth my hands unto Thee: my soul thirsteth after Thee, as a thirsty land. Selah.

Hear me speedily, O LORD: my spirit faileth: hide not Thy face from me, lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit. Cause me to hear Thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in Thee do I trus: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto Thee...Teach me to do Thy will; for Thou art my God: Thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness. 

~ Psalms 143:1, 5-8, 10 ~

Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and He shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity.

~ Isaiah 58:9 ~

Travel Completed

Well, the rest of the trip went well, and I arrived in Davao yesterday morning (9/12) at 6:10am without any complications. Unfortunately, I had no time to post anything, because I had Orientation that morning, and then had to do some necessary shopping before hitting the hay... (For the first time in my life, I experienced JetLag--seemed more like being drugged to me...but oh well).

It seemed like this entire trip, there were a lot of guys in the AirForce or Navy traveling on our planes.. On our flight from Seattle to Seoul, there were 40 AirForce airmen on our flight. That flight was definitely my favorite, because my row (3 guys and me) had some really good conversations..
Interestingly, everyone I talked to was pretty surprised I was going to Mindanao...

The guy to my right (25ish) was from Seattle, but I think of Hong Kong descent, and Asians in general are extremely observant and polite...  The guy to my left was around 50, past Naval man who currently works with steel on the submarines, and makes sure they're all good to go.  Then on his left, was a 23 year old AirForce airman. During the last couple hours, we had the chance to talk quite a bit, and found that we had a LOT in common... Not only were we both born in Anchorage, AK but our values seemed very similar too. It was a pity our seats weren't next together, because I have a feeling we would have talked the whole flight non-stop. As it was, we went around the world on most subjects, but unfortunately didn't have time to flush each subject out completely.

It's always encouraging to find kindred spirits, especially in those that are serving our Country in any capacity. They have a really hard lot though, since most of those they work with don't agree. It is such a blessing to be able to encourage those who are serving our Country, as a sister (in Christ), and pray for them too.

Sa Manila Airport (2am) ...Backpacks make good pillows

Since our Seattle flight was an hour late in arriving, I barely made it to my connecting flight, and sat next to an older Asian couple. Customs and changing airports went smoothly in Manila, and the 5.5 hour layover went pretty well...was able to sleep for a few hours, and found quite a few people who live in Mindanao.

The flight to Davao went pretty fast, and they had this video playing 'Gags: Just for Laughs' and boy were some absolutely hilarious!! One was a gal on a bicycle with a 'child' (mummy) wrapped up in a child seat behind her. It was attached in a way that all she'd have to do is push a button and the seat would fall off and trail behind her, freaking onlookers out.

Another one: A person is asked to keep an eye on a car, but are distracted with this teen on crutches who drops his papers. When they get back to the car from helping him, they find a NASA satellite with smoke coming from it has fallen from space (sound effects and all) onto the hood of the car they were supposed to watch. Then a black van full on men in black suits talking on their cell phones pull up, load the satellite in the back of the van, warn the witnesses to shush, and speed off.

Anyway, arrived in Davao at 0610, and Ate´ Heather picked me up. The dorm homes moved from next to the clinic to about a 15 minutes walk away. I'm living in the same house as Brittany-a girl I met at the Butuan Missions last year.

Orientation went well yesterday, though I had a problem staying awake towards the end. Karissa (another intern) arrived a few days ago, and so we had Orientation together. Then we both went to Victoria Mall and got some necessities. It was fun knowing exactly where everything was still. Then, we went to MMC, and I shocked a ton of people there...the Filipinos went ecstatic to see me again (almost like seeing a ghost)... I still haven't met up with my 'favorite people'...They had either been on Night Shift or were out, so hopefully I'll see them all today. I'm hoping to spend the afternoon today with Sylvette..

Karissa and I talked for hours at her dorm, but finally my eyes were seeing double and I practically just dropped. One of the girls woke me up for dinner, but I was so tired (and was even talking incoherently), that I skipped dinner, and she helped me back to my dorm where I slept for 8 hrs..and now I feel much better. I was told it was 'JetLag'..something I've never experienced before.... It really felt more like I'd been drugged or something...

My first shift is on Saturday. The weather here is really nice. Semi-hot, pretty humid, and a little overcast....not too bad, actually.... They're having some cool weather right now.

In Seattle

Well, I'm in Seattle now... My last flight was uneventful, and my seatmate was a young guy in the AirForce on his way with some buddies to get 'Pressurized' for Free-Fall Training. We had some great discussions.

Papa took me to the airport this morning..which was really special. Here I am before checking into GEG Airport, with everything I'm taking: 6 months worth of clothes/medical equipment.

My flight leaves at 2:30pm... I'll be Davao tomorrow morning (PST). That's all for now!!

For we walk by faith, not by sight: We are confident, I say, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.

~ 2 Corinthians 5:7-9 ~

EMT: All Certified

As many of you know, this Spring, I completed my EMT Course and Skills Training, and passed my National Skills Test, leaving one test left to complete - the Adaptive Written Test, before I was completely 'Nationally Certified'. I finally took the test last night, after putting it on the back burner for 4 months, and found out this morning that I passed it, praise God!!

Earlier this summer, I had the opportunity to spend around 75 hrs as a ridealong at our local Fire Department, working on the ambulance, as well as the fire engine for a total of around 34 calls. You see a lot of things in the Emergency field, and I discovered I have a passion for it.

One of my main Shifts and I

As disciples of Christ, we all have been commissioned to 'Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things Jesus commanded us.' (Matt. 28:19-20a) This commission can and should be carried out where ever we are, whether that is at home, at work, at the grocery store, at play, etc.
Christ told us that 'WE are the light of the world, and a city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.' (Matt. 5:14) He commanded us to 'Let our lights so shine before men, that they may see our good works, and glorify our Father which is in Heaven.' (Matt. 5:16)

All of this applies in the field of EMS as well. Except, in this sense, we typically only have about 1/2 hour with each patient: to encourage them and make an impact for Christ--mostly through care, prayer, compassion, and example. We also can make an impact with our co-workers (or the 'brotherhood' as it is termed at the FD)... EMS is a stressful, adrenaline-packed job, and though there is a definite sense of satisfaction with a job well done, it's not always easy or fun.

Ever seen the a battery resting on the ground before?? That's what happens when a Jetta hits a Dumptruck...

There is a huge mission field there in EMS, and the biggest way to have an impact is to lead through example--letting your walk talk mostly, instead of the talk talk (though there are times for that as well).

As a girl going into a mostly guys world, you have to be careful that you are shamefaced and discreet, because you are dealing with other women's husbands, fiances, etc. in high-stress situations. It was really neat, because in the short time I was there, I saw God use me to make a small impact in the areas I served, and it so encouraged me to continue trying to make those little differences in other areas of my life as well.

I am so grateful for all those who serve our Country in all aspects. It is a rough, tough job...you see a lot, and you have to handle a lot..and when you get off the job--12, 24, 48, or longer hour shifts, you have to go home and readjust to 'normal' life, trying to forget the sometimes devastating things you've dealt with...sometimes to people who understand and help, sometimes to people who don't.

It is imperative that we on the homefront encourage those working in those Front Line fields--both those defending our Country from without and within, and seek to understand how we can help.

As you might see, I'm passionate about this subject, and could go on for hours...so I'll end here. ;)

Also, as a quick addendum, Joe Galizio, a Volunteer Firefighter/EMT in NY is writing a kids book called 'Don't be Afraid' to help raise awareness that EMS Personnel are there to help in stressful situations. His hope is to educate Pre-K - Elementary-aged children that it's okay to be nervous, but not to hide from emergency workers, and hopefully help children understand the process during an emergency, which will make it a little less stressful for them.
His goal is to raise $7500.00 to assist with artwork and to cover the costs for the first print run of 2000 books. If you have an extra dollar or two, this would be a great cause to donate it to.. It would be really neat to see this book published... Read more here.

Reflection and Testimony

Loss. Loss is something humans have had to deal with since sin entered the world 6,000 years ago. The natural response to loss is Grief: which often is accompanied by remorse, denial, self-pity, anger, and blame.
Grief. Grief can be handled in many different ways. For some, it is the end, for others a hope for the future. For some, it is a time for reflection. Some people seem to heal quickly; others take more time; and still others seem to never completely recover.

Of course, for we who have our faith in Jesus - our Rock of Salvation - we have hope. (Ps. 62:6)

For me, I tend to try to brush it off, hide it, and "go on with life", but really it is just pushed down to the recesses of my heart, like a volcano, that occasionally simmers when provoked, and then suddenly spouts when the pressure is too much to contain.

I have dealt with much loss in my life, though terribly insignificant compared to some I know (but there I go comparing, and that is never wise ;p)...
I suppose all that is 'by way of introduction' to the testimony I felt led to share last night:::

This past week, we lost 2 of our alpacas - my little brother's alpacas: one to old age and unknown causes, and the other - her orphaned cria - to a slow start.

Death happens on every ranch or farm for various reasons and has to be excepted, but with every one, there are always questions of "Why?" and "What could I have done better?". With each one, a new lesson is learned or insight gained. Still, every one is hard--even when you've calloused yourself to it
.
This last one was especially so. Cassie (the dam), was the 'dream of the future', and Cavalier (the cria), was a good beginning. Not only were they jet black (my dream), but David & I invested hours not only in their purchase, but also in trying to save Cavalier--to no avail.
I knew it from the moment I realized he didn't get the colostrum he needed at birth, but hardened my heart and secretly hoped.

But really, this heartache wasn't about a little black cria...it was deeper than that...it went back to my dream horse - Raphya, and her filly - Ruhamah, who she would never carry to term --my dream for the future that died less than 2 months after it had been confirmed. Instead of grieving though, I pushed it aside with the wonderful excuse of work (after all, 'Hard work never hurt a body', right??), and God gave me complete peace to accept it as His will and go on.

Over the last year especially though, I started to have to have to face it all over again - with a near look-alike mare, who would have a foal (a colt) that looked almost exactly what Ruhamah would have looked like.

A friend faced me with the fact a few months ago that I was afraid to own a horse again or even ride them because deep down, it was too hard to forget and go on. Really truly, it was because it would mean I would have to love another horse, which I could lose.

I think that is something a lot of us face -- to invest time and energy into something (or someone) often leads into love and sometimes even passion. Love means unbarring your soul, leaving yourself vulnerable and open. Ultimately, it means to trust. After loss swoops down and wrecks havoc, our first inclination is to build a wall around our hearts and guard it closely so that nothing will 'hurt' us again. This often leads to coldheartedness, bitterness, and distrust.

What does God want though? What is His ultimate desire for us? He wants us to trust Him completely - with unbarred, vulnerable hearts. He wants us to know that we can trust them to Him and He, as our gentle Shepherd will protect them for us. (Ps. 57)

This does not mean that sorrow or loss won't happen -- that is the result of sin. (Gen. 3) However, He is with us each step of the way. (Heb. 13:5; Isaiah 41:10) All we have to do is ask. (Matt. 7:7)

Some wise person said that 'Where Faith is, fear cannot abide'. Isn't that so true?! (Ps. 27:1; 56:3-4)
Over the past week, many things have happened that brought to mind my Raphya, and tonight as David & I sat with the cria as it drew it's last breaths, that utter longing and welled-up grief flooded over me. The questions of 'why' went through my head again and the flashbacks started.

As I prepared for bed, at a loss, I cried out to God, begging for answers, reassurance, a lessons to learn, something graspable, and suddenly, He sent the chorus of "Jesus, Bring the Rain" to mind:

Bring me joy, Bring me peace

Bring the chance to be free

Bring me anything that brings You glory

And I know there'll be days

When this life brings me pain

But if that's what it takes to praise You

Jesus, bring the rain

Holy Holy Holy, Holy Holy Holy is the Lord God Almighty

Have you ever had the Holy Spirit enter your room and put you on your knees - glorifying and praising God? Suddenly, my tears of pain spontaneously turned into whispers of Thanksgiving, and all I could say was "Thank you Lord!" and "Praise you Jesus!" Peace overwhelmed my soul once more.

I may never know why He allowed this dream to vanish and I may very well at times struggle with the sometimes desperate pain that love carries with it, but of this I am convinced, with every shadow there is a ray of light (Isaiah 9:2); with every sorrow, there is eventual joy (Ps. 30:5); and when Faith is instilled, fear is banished (Ps. 56:3-4; 1 John 4:18).

Faith is a choice, as is love. (Heb. 11:6)

Christ gave us a free gift - that of Salvation and of Grace. (Eph. 2:8) Both are free for the taking, if we only ask, believe, and receive. (Luke 11:9)

Just as the GodHead would have walked on by Abraham's tent if he had not ran out and begged them to come in and stay awhile, Jesus will walk on by unless we entreat and invite Him into the situation. (Gen. 18) God loves us. He cares for you. He so badly wants us to 'Cast all our cares upon Him, because He cares for us'. (1 Pet. 5:7)

One of my sister Rachel's favorite illustrations of this is that of the little boy who was carrying a heavy load. A passing farmer in his wagon laden with parcels offered a ride which the boy gladly excepted.

Joyfully, the lad placed his burden upon the space beside him, but then after a while, he noticed how the poor horse was carrying so much under the strain of the wagon and heavy load. Feeling sorry for the beast, the lad placed his own heavy bundle on his lap, thinking that it would ease the horse's load.

Of course, that may sound silly to us, because we know the horse still carried just as much weight, but in all reality, that is just what we so often do! We 'cast our cares upon Christ' only to take them up ourselves again! But that is not Christ's desire for us! He says 'Come unto me, all that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest unto your souls'. (Matt. 11:28)

I charge you my dear readers, don't allow Satan to hold you in bondage! Commit your way, your steps, and your burdens to Christ (Ps. 37:3-5), for 'His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Learn of Him, for He is meek and lowly of heart'. (Matt. 11:29-30)

A Glimpse into Butuan

Kuya Bong--my surgeon friend that I will be helping in Butuan forwarded me the following newsletter clipping, written about the 2012 Nehemiah Medical Team (which I worked with last Summer). I thought it might provide a glimpse of the different villages I might be serving, as well as how the receptivity to us went. (My comments are in Bold/Italic):

"The 2012 Nehemiah Medical Team, composed of 17 students from various States in the United States, has come and gone. However, under the leadership of Bong Dacanay, they performed several medical procedures, established new relationships in four villages and surrounding areas, distributed 77 Bibles and 25 packs of FAITH seeds. The summer, from June 7 to July 29, was a success.

The Nehemiah Team was divided into four sub-teams with 4 American volunteers and several Filipino volunteers, who translated and helped in the ministry and medical procedures. Each sub-team was assigned to a specific village and spent the majority of the summer in those villages. The four villages were Tud-Ol, Lamosig, E.G. Montilla and Consorcia. (All new villages from last year, I should add.) Below is a brief overview of what occurred in each village and how the Nehemiah Team assisted in community building, both physically and spiritually.

For Tud-Ol, the village was extremely receptive of the team and became friends with each of the members. The team established daily Bible sharing time, where they shared Bible stories in the common area of the village. Every evening at least 20 villagers gathered to listen to the stories, ask questions and reflect on the glory of God. Several believers were found in the village and the team dedicated much time to discipling them and teaching them the importance of baptism. The team endured several hardships with medical issues in the community and the death of a neighbor. However, this was a time for the team to share God’s love even more and help the people develop hope in our Father.

Concerning medical service, the team performed 25 circumcision procedures, addressed small cuts and wounds, and distributed medication for basic colds and allergies. When the medical mission team from Ft. Payne, Alabama came to assist in medical service, they pulled teeth for 16 people, checked 135 people for basic medical needs, and distributed medication for the needs of the villagers.

For Lamosig, the village was not as open and welcoming as other villages. This was anticipated from the beginning, as Bong warned the team that they may face opposition at times, but to be committed to the service of the Lord. The team worked hard as they conducted door-to-door Bible studies, but were discouraged at times because of the lack of receptiveness. However, they were able to assist a local pastor in building a church and telling villagers about the church and how they could worship together every Sunday. Some of the team members found receptive people and were able to disciple them one-on-one and encourage them to read more of the Bible and memorize verses. This proved to be effective and a wonderful way to minister to the villagers.

Concerning medical service, the team performed 23 circumcision procedures. As they were assisted by the medical mission team from Alabama, they pulled teeth for 39 people, and distributed medication for cough, cold, and allergy. They also helped 390 people with basic medical needs and checked vital signs.

For E.G. Montilla, the village was receptive from the beginning, but soon religious leaders of the community warned against the Americans and the Gospel they were teaching. Some members encountered opposition because of this warning, but disputes were settled and team members were able to share truth and explain the completeness of the Gospel. Once truth was spoken, villagers were much more responsive and receptive of Bible studies. The team began to focus on organization of believers in the community as they found several who believed in Christ and desired fellowship. As they finished the summer, they were committed to organizing the believers, discussing the possibility of building a church building, and having land donated for the building.

Concerning medical service, the team performed 54 circumcision procedures. As they were assisted by the medical mission team from Alabama, they pulled teeth for 58 people and distributed basic medication. They were able to see 258 people and check vital signs of each who came.

For Consorcia, the village was very receptive and accepting of the team. The team had wonderful door-to-door ministry, establishing contacts across the village and ministering to each household daily. One of the best ministries of the summer for the team was their ministry with the children of the village. They recognized the need to reach out to the children and soon the team members organized and began sharing Bible stories every night with the children. Each evening, at least 20 children gathered in the health clinic to listen to the stories. They were quizzed on the previous story and awarded prizes for remembering past stories. This ministry proved to be effective and ordained by God. One of the best ways to reach families is through their children, and this team did exactly that.

Concerning medical service, the team performed 60 circumcision procedures. As they were assisted by the medical mission team from Alabama, they pulled teeth of 29 people and distributed medication for the needs of the community. They were able to see 301 people and check vital signs of each who came.

The medical mission from Alabama also worked in Subait (one of the villages we worked in a good bit last year), another small village in the greater Butuan area. In Subait, the medical team checked 183 people for basic medical needs, distributed medication and they pulled teeth for 26 people."

Though I don't know exactly what villages I will be working in this time, it is very possible that these villages will be included in the ones that we work in (especially Subait). Please keep these 5 villages in prayer, that Satan would not get a stronghold while the missionaries are away, but that the new believers would continue to seek Christ's face and read and memorize the Scriptures, as well as continue having Bible Studies, and encouraging their neighbors/non-believers as well.

But what saith it? The Word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the Word of faith, which we preach; That is thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

For with the heart, man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth, confession is made unto Salvation. For the Scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all them that call upon Him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the Gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

But they have not all obeyed the Gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word (rhemas) of God.

~ Romans 10:8-17 ~

19 days Left!

I can hardly believe that I leave in 2.5 weeks! Wow...God has been so gracious!

Backpacking it..

The past 2 days, I got everything packed that I need to take (minus the last minute things--like my computer. :p)...crazy how sometimes it takes longer to pack when you can only take a little bit, than when you can take a lot, since you have to think over every aspect of what you might need (that you can't get there) over 6 months' time.

Also, yesterday, I surpassed my minimums for the amount I'll need to live over there--praise God!!! I am so grateful for all those who helped support me, either through gifts, or allowing me to work for them this summer, and especially for the Idaho Character Foundation who covered my travel expenses, and my amazing parents/family who have seen less of me this summer than normal.

Thank you so much for all of your prayers!! It is such a blessing and encouragement to know that there will be people back home who will be covering me with prayers before the throne of our God.

A quick update on Rachel...she has settled in Singapore quite well, is staying extremely busy, but is loving every moment of it. God has blessed her with an amazing roommate-Leslie, who she actually knew from IBLP Headquarters, and besides enjoying sweet fellowship in Christ with her, Rachel is gleaning a lot of wisdom as well.

For He saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. So then, it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.

~Romans 9:15-16 ~

Summer Update

Wow...it's been a long time since I've written... As everyone knows, the Waldo Canyon fire is long since been under control, and in it's place, the usual summertime fires all around our nation have occurred... Thank God for those who have sacrificed, sometimes everything to protect us...
This last month has been very, very busy for us... Not only did 'cria season' come in full blast, with 11 crias born thus far, 3 of which have been either brown or black (my favorite), but we are only half done... talk about fun!!

Also, instead of spending 3 weeks in the Midwest like originally planned, our family decided to spend those 3 weeks in North Idaho, visiting friends and family, camping, swimming, rafting, huckleberry and u-picking, and then finally sending Rachel off to Singapore for 2 months, where she'll be helping to teach student leadership to college-age kids there.

This week marked the first full week of being 'back' from Vacation, and boy, has it been busy!! I'm back to work as a nanny, house cleaner, and also (and most importantly) helper on the ranch...and now almost have the minimum funds needed to serve in the Philippines for 6 months.

Now down to 26 days until departure, the days are starting to fly by fast, and though there doesn't seem to be much to really do to prepare for leaving, I have realized that most everything I do relates to it in some odd way or another.

I would ask your prayers for Rachel as she serves in Singapore...I am so excited to see what God does through her willing, serving and humble heart over there.

For Thou, LORD, hast made me glad through Thy work: I will triumph in the works of Thy hands. O LORD, how great are Thy works! and Thy thoughts are very deep.

~ Psalms 92:4-5 ~