tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67096347884095241992024-03-05T11:46:48.856-08:00Not all who wander are lostramblings of a mom of 4 bios, 1 adopted, and 2 bonus kidsnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.comBlogger475125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-91827168860983847352016-05-14T11:37:00.000-07:002016-05-14T11:37:07.724-07:00$40 billion gone unused?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzum3UOHDtgH8zd74TWtn3TUsQILuv7R3EBIUoct6pcxAxQRjsAjLilarNgDffY0w2vokA3e7ME-sUWjDJBEP8KmFJL0ay8NYC8K2wK2j_nBz0iNgQwBi1LJWl07wlsuc_PStlM4MOhXg/s1600/COMPAS_001680_05_r1social_ch-11-609x609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzum3UOHDtgH8zd74TWtn3TUsQILuv7R3EBIUoct6pcxAxQRjsAjLilarNgDffY0w2vokA3e7ME-sUWjDJBEP8KmFJL0ay8NYC8K2wK2j_nBz0iNgQwBi1LJWl07wlsuc_PStlM4MOhXg/s320/COMPAS_001680_05_r1social_ch-11-609x609.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Not going to lie, that number sort of blew me away. At my house, gift cards are usually blown through rather quickly.<br />
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Do you have unused gift cards tucked away in your wallet or junk drawer at home?<br />
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Check out <a href="http://www.cardfunder.com/">www.cardfunder.com</a> <br />
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What a cool way to get rid of clutter and do some good. <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/138921929?color=0039a6&title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe>
<a href="https://vimeo.com/138921929">Compassion CardFunder</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/compassionintl">Compassion International</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-32293052071745872642016-01-01T10:58:00.000-08:002016-01-01T10:58:37.121-08:00Word for 2016 - Create<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3NqgJTEITVCqYBV6DCxDgaIDUmwpfMK7nMt5velcyhym2dxFfaqNAn-XTW7Ty6miXwbN_py1E2pDV7QAg1lWkP5IetzTC8G4URGIs0y7RGBFrZAu1SzdttKZ0e5mHNYs6iJTSuCF8lco/s1600/IMG_3453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3NqgJTEITVCqYBV6DCxDgaIDUmwpfMK7nMt5velcyhym2dxFfaqNAn-XTW7Ty6miXwbN_py1E2pDV7QAg1lWkP5IetzTC8G4URGIs0y7RGBFrZAu1SzdttKZ0e5mHNYs6iJTSuCF8lco/s320/IMG_3453.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br />nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-87168929391936898962015-04-30T16:00:00.000-07:002015-04-30T16:00:06.549-07:00Mother's Day is a comin'Just to let you know, I'm writing this while coming out of a 7 day fog. I caught a nasty virus from my foster grand baby and it put me under. She bounced right through it as all tinies should. If things seem a bit off, I blame the virus.<br />
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Four companies have come to my attention recently.<br />
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If a company catches my eye then that means they offer more than just a product.<br />
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The first one is <a href="http://akolaproject.org/" target="_blank">Akola</a>. I first heard of them from my cashier at Whole Foods. He admired my fair trade grocery basket and told me about his friend's company. I, then, found their shop in Deep Ellum and it is so beautiful. If you need a peaceful spot while your strolling through the neighborhood, then I highly suggest taking a look. You can also purchase <a href="http://akolaproject.org/shop/" target="_blank">online</a>. The company has created a sustainable impact model for women living in extreme poverty in Uganda. Their US branch offers an economic alternative to sex trafficking victims through business training and employment.<br />
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100% of Akola profits invest in empowerment and wellness programs for 250 women impacting 2,500 lives.<br />
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And their jewelery is stunning.<br />
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While strolling through the Deep Ellum Arts Festival my friends and I came across the next company.<br />
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<a href="http://ellajude.com/" target="_blank">ellajude </a>make such lovey stuff. They handcraft these chunky, funky, worn, bright pieces. And, of course, it has a reason for existing beyond just being lovely. Five percent of the purchase price of any piece goes to support <a href="http://casadeamor.publishpath.com/" target="_blank">Casa De Amor</a> in Bolivia. I really liked the <a href="https://squareup.com/market/ellajude" target="_blank">3/4" Word Bracelets</a>. I actually squealed when I saw the one that says "create" 'cause that's my word for the year. You can ask my friend, Jacqueline, about the excitement. Josh and April, the creative husband and wife team, were so sweet to chat with. And I'm thrilled they use their business to build others up.<br />
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A company I stumbled on this past week while sick is <a href="http://www.sackclothandashes.com/" target="_blank">Sackcloth & Ashes</a>. I'm so glad they really exist and I didn't just dream them up during the fever stages. You can find their blankets at <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/index.jsp" target="_blank">Anthropologie</a>, so many of you probably already know about them. They are ethically sourced and fair trade. I really like the red Socality one. The cool thing about this company is they give a blanket to one of <b>your</b> local homeless shelters for every blanket you purchase. <br />
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The last one is <a href="http://tinybeegifts.com/" target="_blank">Tiny Bee Gift Co.</a> For every book purchased they give a book to the library of your choice. So sweet. So easy. So cute!<br />
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Well, there you have it. Four companies that have caught my eye recently. Make your mom happy. Give her something that gives even more.nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-18959599874459018042015-02-16T08:17:00.000-08:002015-02-16T08:17:36.747-08:00Compassion in the DRToday is the beginning of a very exciting week for <a href="http://www.compassion.com/" target="_blank">Compassion International</a>. A team of bloggers are in the Dominican Republic ready to visit the child development centers and learn more about the work being done there.<br />
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I'm excited about this trip, because our two sponsored children reside in the Dominican Republic. So, I will be searching the pictures looking for our Gabby and Eury. I don't know if I'll recognize them. They're growing so fast and I've never seen a photo of them smiling. They're always so serious in their official <a href="http://www.compassion.com/" target="_blank">Compassion</a> pictures.<br />
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You can follow along on this trip by keeping tabs on these different blogs.<br />
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<a href="http://www.faithbarista.com/" target="_blank">Faith Barista</a><br />
<a href="http://oursavorylife.com/" target="_blank">Our Savory Life</a><br />
<a href="http://holleygerth.com/" target="_blank">Coffee For Your Heart</a><br />
<a href="http://www.lisaleonardonline.com/blog/" target="_blank">Journey With Me</a><br />
<a href="http://mikevarel.com/" target="_blank">Mike Varel</a><br />
<a href="http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/" target="_blank">Living Well Spending Less</a><br />
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Or follow them <a href="http://compassionbloggers.com/trips/dr-2015/" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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On Twitter? <a href="https://twitter.com/compassion/lists/dr-2015-bloggers" target="_blank">Follow this stream</a>.<br />
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On Pinterest? <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/compassion/stories-from-our-blog-trips/" target="_blank">Follow this board</a>.<br />
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Share what touches you and moves your heart. <br />
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And consider sponsoring a child from the DR. <br />
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<br />nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-4581314376115751592014-11-22T09:28:00.002-08:002014-11-22T09:28:59.958-08:00Childhood memories I've started this post more than once.<br />
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I've typed and deleted several things.<br />
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But, now, I've decided to share one of my fondest memories from my childhood.<br />
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I don't even know if the world today would allow this to happen.<br />
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Way back in the mid-seventies my family moved to far West Texas, true West Texas.<br />
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On our first Sunday in this tiny town we met a family.<br />
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They lived on a ranch 20 miles out of town.<br />
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We had Sunday lunch with them at the ranch.<br />
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It was decided my siblings and I would stay a couple of days while our parents settled into their new jobs.<br />
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The next day 8 kids, ages 15 through 6, climbed onto horses, bareback.<br />
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We only took 3 horses, which meant a pile of kids on each horse.<br />
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Thankfully, for the horses, we were all tiny. <br />
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We headed north through the desert scrub until the designated spot to tie-up the horses.<br />
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Then, we hiked to the Rio Grande (remember, true West Texas) and waded down the river in water barely covering our ankles.<br />
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Until we hit the mud.<br />
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Grey, slimy, glorious mud.<br />
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At this point in the river the water was about waist deep on me and the mud was knee high.<br />
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The mud fight was epic. <br />
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Every inch of us was covered in mud.<br />
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We got back to the house about the same time our parents drove up.<br />
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The mud was so thick they couldn't tell us apart at first.<br />
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My mom found a pebble in my little brother's ear.<br />
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I tell you, it was an epic fight.<br />
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What an amazing day.<br />
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8 kids. <br />
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Bareback on horses.<br />
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In far West Texas.<br />
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Screaming, yelling, and flinging mud in the Rio Grande.<br />
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Without an adult in sight.<br />
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Like I said, I don't know if the world we live in now would allow this to take place.<br />
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Those years in far West Texas opened up a whole new world to me. So much freedom to run around doing crazy things. A different culture, a different landscape. I'm extremely thankful for the time I had there. <br />
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You might not live in a place where your kids can experience different cultures first hand, but there is a nifty magazine that allows them to explore and a year subscription is free.<br />
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It's called <a href="https://www.compassion.com/free-magazine-for-kids.htm?referer=148604" target="_blank">Explorer</a> and you can sign up for it <a href="https://www.compassion.com/free-magazine-for-kids.htm?referer=148604" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://www.compassion.com/free-magazine-for-kids.htm?referer=148604" target="_blank">Compassion Explorer</a> is full of crafts, games, recipes, devotionals, and stories from around the world. <br />
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When I was a kid, I loved reading books and magazines. I still love reading books and magazines. It's such a great way to explore without leaving home.<br />
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Explore getting <a href="https://www.compassion.com/free-magazine-for-kids.htm?referer=148604" target="_blank">Explorer </a>for the kids you love. Introduce them to a whole new world. You've got nothing to lose and they've got a lot to gain.<br />
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<br />nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-55232282370209644192014-08-30T15:26:00.000-07:002014-08-30T15:26:22.405-07:00Back to school<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Around here most of the kiddos have been in school for a week. Some private schools and states have been in session for a few weeks and some haven't started up yet. I guess we sort of fall in the middle. And, my guess is that the majority of us, no matter when we start, take education for granted.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In honor of education and its importance I give you some facts gathered by <a href="http://www.compassion.com/poverty/education.htm" target="_blank">Compassion International</a>. </span><br />
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<li style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Worldwide, <b>nearly 80 percent</b> of primary-school-age children attend school. In least developed countries, this figure is around <b>66 percent</b>.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The largest out-of-school population is in sub-Saharan Africa, where around <b>45.5 million</b> children of primary school age are out of school.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Of the <b>67 million</b> primary-school-age children who do not attend school, 53 percent are girls.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Worldwide, only <b>49 percent</b> of children of secondary school age actually attend secondary school.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Of the 49 percent of secondary age students who do not attend school, <b>52 percent</b> are girls.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The world’s functional illiterates include <b>more than 130 million</b> children who do not attend school, 73 million of them girls.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">These numbers are heartbreaking. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I looked up information about the education system in The Dominican Republic where our <a href="http://www.compassion.com/" target="_blank">Compassion</a> kiddos live. I found out it ranks as one of the worst in the world. Heartbreaking. The <a href="http://www.dw.de/dominican-republic-revamps-failing-education-system/a-17625149" target="_blank">article</a> by Katie Manning came out May 12, 2014 for Deutsche Welle and states extremely low pay makes it hard to get qualified teachers. Can you imagine trying to live on less than $350 a month? When I taught for a private school I only made about $6 an hour. Teachers there make even less. Hard to comprehend that's possible. Schools are also extremely overcrowded and dropout rates are high. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">At least I know our kiddos are getting extra attention through the <a href="http://www.compassion.com/sponsor-a-child-in-the-dominican-republic.htm" target="_blank">Compassion</a> programs they attend. My hope is that education reform will truly take place in their country. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You can help a child/children reach for the stars and get the educational help needed by sponsoring he/she/them through <a href="http://www.compassion.com/" target="_blank">Compassion</a>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnobwXZey9HpmzUVYlkM0ajkABUZruSZopFWfGjcwRVFyiC2kD41dHxzSCzPoFOvDtmnC0cYsql6ybtI17udZW2JDxmcBolrRGI3ycIP3dssGc8R5db7Pal2mSvVCOg8F3aYvg-CxcmBA/s1600/Stars-girl-boosted-colors-with-logo-289x144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnobwXZey9HpmzUVYlkM0ajkABUZruSZopFWfGjcwRVFyiC2kD41dHxzSCzPoFOvDtmnC0cYsql6ybtI17udZW2JDxmcBolrRGI3ycIP3dssGc8R5db7Pal2mSvVCOg8F3aYvg-CxcmBA/s1600/Stars-girl-boosted-colors-with-logo-289x144.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-37076882104682285812014-07-30T07:47:00.001-07:002014-07-30T08:00:24.799-07:00This is what inspired us<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The following is what inspired our family to sponsor children through <a href="http://www.compassion.com/" target="_blank">Compassion International</a>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI_9wE_7n3YkIswp5DAxyrTkPEVAQU2_pJ6ImmxaUvWjcIM70Wc-S6k9NMxqEkxKLM8P0mxX21NDBaupc5_CIJAus6HoNDSTCdEBNagVxsnVcALVWvrO3EBQTvsXM0zRbWcy0DvYP3GCk/s1600/photo-12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI_9wE_7n3YkIswp5DAxyrTkPEVAQU2_pJ6ImmxaUvWjcIM70Wc-S6k9NMxqEkxKLM8P0mxX21NDBaupc5_CIJAus6HoNDSTCdEBNagVxsnVcALVWvrO3EBQTvsXM0zRbWcy0DvYP3GCk/s1600/photo-12.JPG" height="175" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqJbzcdhw9PTPIsVcdhYWNC6VludxpA2eGPwQIZLvvWut0kdwcJ9RoQzWIoj_MTW9TeYyM0GhJSBk6X5GTwdynVfKl5vZ07i3RwJOMhL9gbWR_MxwZSdw8A9qu1IM3HSdejNsCPsIvrg/s1600/photo-11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqJbzcdhw9PTPIsVcdhYWNC6VludxpA2eGPwQIZLvvWut0kdwcJ9RoQzWIoj_MTW9TeYyM0GhJSBk6X5GTwdynVfKl5vZ07i3RwJOMhL9gbWR_MxwZSdw8A9qu1IM3HSdejNsCPsIvrg/s1600/photo-11.JPG" height="92" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXDSDtE2kecj5ckXImretwHqxuJ7RpiEH723i__r2W1ecZ8mvhAJlwXyytlABFXNFAQnjbD_vk_1ksopPYhUNB8V969f7NDMR5s8DtjX0xlfJhyphenhyphenl0Pi2Pti0sUgvlMZVIAQ5eb1R_Zqo8/s1600/photo-14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXDSDtE2kecj5ckXImretwHqxuJ7RpiEH723i__r2W1ecZ8mvhAJlwXyytlABFXNFAQnjbD_vk_1ksopPYhUNB8V969f7NDMR5s8DtjX0xlfJhyphenhyphenl0Pi2Pti0sUgvlMZVIAQ5eb1R_Zqo8/s1600/photo-14.JPG" height="128" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-39539610131139333542014-07-17T12:32:00.002-07:002014-07-17T12:32:33.549-07:00Patricia Laura of Ten Thousand Homes<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Back in July <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/06/17/100-religious-groups-doing-good_n_5460739.html?utm_hp_ref=mostpopular" target="_blank">this list</a> came out in The Huffington Post. I was THRILLED, GIDDY, ECSTATIC to see <a href="http://tenthousandhomes.org/" target="_blank">Ten Thousand Homes</a> included.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I know Ten Thousand Homes is a remarkable place. It holds a part of my heart and because of this I've decided to "interview" the ladies of TTH and introduce them to you. These Q & A sessions are being posted in the order I receive them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">First up is Patricia Laura, originally from Brazil. You may have heard of that country. It had some kind of soccer thingy there recently. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-6BiFlrm5zcfzD1LEJuZ_wmFmoOuhNqsalc6YnJUOr8XyLWcpF-3QXz9ymr5cqc9aD-OS3VIddF_WEzL5SV-IXMd6cUewRdlPCIUy-_wPXhhm5yzCrbiFW-tgiC2MtAeTLQ0MNtPcF0/s1600/Patricia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-6BiFlrm5zcfzD1LEJuZ_wmFmoOuhNqsalc6YnJUOr8XyLWcpF-3QXz9ymr5cqc9aD-OS3VIddF_WEzL5SV-IXMd6cUewRdlPCIUy-_wPXhhm5yzCrbiFW-tgiC2MtAeTLQ0MNtPcF0/s1600/Patricia.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>How did you come to be part of Ten Thousand Homes?</b> In 2012, God had revived in my heart the dream of being a missionary and a friend showed me a website with information about TTH. Then in 2013 I came to Africa and had been serving for only 1 month and here God told me that I should return full-time. I was invited to come back and do the <a href="http://tenthousandhomes.org/get-involved/compassion-dts/" target="_blank">YWAM DTS</a>. I came back two months later. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Was it an easy decision to join the staff?</b> No. I had a ticket to go back to Brazil after finishing the school and God spoke to me clearly to stay. The hardest part was telling my parents and friends that I would not return to Brazil soon. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>How long have you been on staff?</b> 6 months </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>What is your role at Ten Thousand Homes?</b> I have been added to the Community Development team and help in all that is necessary. I keep praying to God to tell me exactly what to do. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>How do you describe hope?</b> For me HOPE is to see and believe that the situation can change in spite of circumstances. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Why is hope important to you?</b> HOPE brings joy, faith and truth. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>What is a dream you have for Ten Thousand Homes or yourself?</b> I have a dream of seeing God's love changing this nation through the TTH family. For myself I have a dream to have my own family. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>What is one thing you want people to know about Ten Thousand Homes?</b> TTH is not about food or a house, it is about Love, Hope and Relationship with God and people. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Thank you, Patricia, for sharing. You are so beautiful. I love your heart. I need to hug your neck.</span></div>
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nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-39134064764835543942014-01-01T08:07:00.003-08:002014-01-01T08:07:55.763-08:00ExtendI've been thinking about my word for 2014 for a couple of weeks now.<br />
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Three words kept bouncing around:<br />
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Extend<br />
Expand<br />
Embrace<br />
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There wasn't a particular order and sometimes I would completely forget one of them and have to rack my brain for the missing word.<br />
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Extend was always there.<br />
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When I think of the word I picture my hands stretching out from my body and my fingers spreading wide - expanding, ready to embrace. <br />
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I want to extend, reach out to friends I haven't seen for some time, even though we live in the same city.<br />
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I want to extend, explore areas of creativity that I've shut down in the past.<br />
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I want to extend, stretch my comfort zone.<br />
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This year I want to always be extending my hands, reaching out for and with grace and mercy. <br />
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<!-- start LinkyTools script --><script src="http://www.linkytools.com/thumbnail_linky_include.aspx?id=219509" type="text/javascript"></script><!-- end LinkyTools script -->nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-64964151809773414462013-12-31T08:48:00.000-08:002013-12-31T08:48:17.140-08:00Sometimes things get lost in translation Yesterday we received a letter from one of our <a href="http://www.compassion.com/" target="_blank">Compassion</a> kids. <br />
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These letters always make me smile.<br />
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This one also made me confused.<br />
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Gabriela is from The Dominican Republic and writes in Spanish, so after looking over her drawing and the cute little form sheet she filled out, I went to the English translation that's always provided.<br />
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"I thank you for the photo in front of the cannon."<br />
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Huh? Cannon? I'm pretty sure I didn't send a photo with a cannon in it. I'm not known for taking photographs of instruments of war.<br />
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At 1:30 a.m I woke up and realized it was suppose to say "canyon." I had sent a picture of my kids at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.<br />
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And sure enough, I went to read the original Spanish and there it was. She had written "gran cañon."<br />
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Now that that is cleared up, Gabriela, I'm so glad you liked it.nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-73134056455263147682013-11-13T10:46:00.001-08:002013-11-13T10:46:15.322-08:00Help Children Affected by Typhoon in PhilippinesIt's hard to read about the horrors the typhoon has churned up in the Philippines.<br />
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It's very frustrating to know there are evil people that will try to take advantage of the crisis to make money and hurt already hurting people.<br />
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Here is a safe donation choice. <br />
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<a href="http://www.compassion.com/" target="_blank">Compassion</a> had people in the Philippines long before the massive storm hit. They've been helping struggling families and children for a long time and will continue. <br />
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Check <a href="http://www.compassion.com/typhoon-hits-philippines.htm?referer=ph-typhoon-134566" target="_blank">here</a> for how you can give to help people in the Philippines. <br />
<br />
Your gift makes possible interventions such as:<br />
<ul>
<li>emergency food and water, temporary shelters, personal items, cooking utensils, trauma counseling and spiritual support</li>
<li>replacing clothing, school supplies and household items</li>
<li>restoring supplies a family needs for earning income</li>
<li>providing continued counseling and support as needed </li>
</ul>
Thank you so much for giving and praying. <br />
<ul>
</ul>
nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-29533072513916462102013-10-28T09:52:00.001-07:002013-10-28T09:52:49.223-07:00For Freedom - A Covers EP<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWKCCp9BPmYgjiAiOIP7SMYgfa2JSGuZCcDGtQaGfOx6B5rXcy2XrSKIx3ugdlOuoyboTvdOL3sg4bf-FEB8-AWKysKOcGffhhDQynxJqw-jvntENjjVtShOK38XzKkAVyO6lz6A14xTE/s1600/Jenny-&-Tyler-_-For-Freedom-_-Cover-Art-sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWKCCp9BPmYgjiAiOIP7SMYgfa2JSGuZCcDGtQaGfOx6B5rXcy2XrSKIx3ugdlOuoyboTvdOL3sg4bf-FEB8-AWKysKOcGffhhDQynxJqw-jvntENjjVtShOK38XzKkAVyO6lz6A14xTE/s320/Jenny-&-Tyler-_-For-Freedom-_-Cover-Art-sm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i>For Freedom</i> by <a href="http://jennyandtyler.com/" target="_blank">Jenny and Tyler</a> drops on November 12, 2013 or 11/12/13 if that's easier to remember. It is a beautiful little album full of a variety of covers. And, something especially dear to my heart, all the proceeds will go to organizations fighting human trafficking.<br />
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One of the things I really love about this album is that they stayed faithful to the original works. Their talent shines through, but they didn't do away with the strong frame that had already been created. I don't believe any of the original artists would be offended by these covers. It comes across, to me, as a lovely gift, honoring the creativity of the originals.<br />
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I've been a little surprised at my favorite song. For a couple of days I simply could not make up my mind, but I've found myself returning to <i>We Will Become Silhouettes</i>. I haven't really put my finger on why. It just grabs me. I thought it would be <i>I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For</i> because I'm a huge U2 fan and <a href="http://www.saragroves.com/" target="_blank">Sara Groves</a> does an excellent job with Jenny and Tyler and a gigantic virtual choir. And, <a href="http://www.jjheller.com/" target="_blank">JJ Heller</a> nails <i>Dreams</i>. All the songs are exquisite.<br />
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Here's the list:<br />
Tonight, Tonight (feat. <a href="http://leviweaver.com/home/" target="_blank">Levi Weaver</a>)<br />
The Scientist<br />
Dreams (feat. JJ Heller)<br />
We Will Become Silhouettes (Remastered)<br />
The Sound of Silence (Remastered)<br />
What A Wonderful World<br />
I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For (feat. Sara Groves)<br />
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I first met Jenny and Tyler a little over a year ago. I wasn't familiar with their music, hadn't seen them perform, but we had a short conversation and I was very impressed with their kindness and sincerity. Immediately, I checked out their music and then saw them in concert a month or so later. I found them to be delightful in recordings, on stage, and in person. And, their passion for the hurting touches me greatly.<br />
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So, when <i>For Freedom</i> comes out on 11/12/13, I encourage you to purchase it. You won't be disappointed. <br />
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<br />nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-48409966089364039002013-06-21T11:53:00.000-07:002013-06-21T11:53:05.052-07:00Her letters make me smile<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP53lPWjNzFsGlTj7hHMtQgqCn2eyIM_Agd7YemOZqcmEUWA_MCfhXQiUfOtK3-5MIRcmZtbzUgrzSkLDkFRfusL5gNSthgG27NfaFaXgBJv8CmCSFZXoPj-X1MAFjT0zS1M4oFM4XSFM/s1600/compassionletter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP53lPWjNzFsGlTj7hHMtQgqCn2eyIM_Agd7YemOZqcmEUWA_MCfhXQiUfOtK3-5MIRcmZtbzUgrzSkLDkFRfusL5gNSthgG27NfaFaXgBJv8CmCSFZXoPj-X1MAFjT0zS1M4oFM4XSFM/s320/compassionletter.jpg" /> </a></div>
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Her letters always make us smile.</div>
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This one made me realize I've never sent her a picture of my husband and me together, just the two of us, with an explanation that we are husband and wife. </div>
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Oops! </div>
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<a href="http://www.compassion.com/" target="_blank">Find your own child to sponsor at Compassion.</a></div>
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Look through the different countries and ages.</div>
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Look at the children that have been waiting a long time to be sponsored.</div>
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Look through the <a href="http://compassionbloggers.com/trips/nicaragua-2013/" target="_blank">blog posts</a> of the Nicaragua team. Have tissue handy.</div>
nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-77067874644510951532013-06-18T10:34:00.000-07:002013-06-18T10:37:20.364-07:00A Contest and CompassionThis is an exciting day for <a href="http://www.compassion.com/" target="_blank">Compassion</a>. A group of bloggers are taking Nicaragua by storm. Well, I hope there are no storms, but you know what I mean.<br />
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<a href="http://compassionbloggers.com/trips/nicaragua-2013/" target="_blank">Follow their adventures.</a><br />
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And, an extra bonus for this Compassion blog trip:<br />
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<a href="http://blog.compassion.com/how-you-can-follow-along-on-a-blog-trip-and-introducing-a-contest/" target="_blank">A CONTEST!</a><br />
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You can win books! I LOVE books. <br />
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Nine books make up the prize package:<br />
<ol>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0061991015?ie=UTF8&tag=soutplat-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0061991015" target="_blank">Southern Plate</a>: Classic Comfort Food That Makes Everyone Feel Like Family by Christy Jordan</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-Woman-Cooks-Food-Frontier/dp/0061997188/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1369846729&sr=1-1&keywords=pioneer+woman+cookbook" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman Cooks</a>: Food from My Frontier by Ree Drummond</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Saving-Savvy-Spending-Standard-Living/dp/1936034530/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1369846854&sr=1-1-fkmr0&keywords=kelly+hancock+saving+saavy" target="_blank">Saving Savvy</a>: Smart and Easy Ways to Cut Your Spending in Half and Raise Your Standard of Living…and Giving by Kelly Hancock</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Little-Salty-Cut-Sweet-Southern/dp/1414375662/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1369847016&sr=1-1&keywords=a+little+salty+to+cut+the+sweet" target="_blank">A Little Salty to Cut the Sweet: Southern Stories of Faith, Family, and Fifteen Pounds of Bacon</a> by Sophie Hudson</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mended-Pieces-Life-Made-Whole/dp/1433676605/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1369847146&sr=1-1&keywords=angie+smith+mended" target="_blank">Mended</a> by Angie Smith</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/One-Thousand-Gifts-Fully-Right/dp/0310321913/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1369847264&sr=1-1&keywords=ann+voskamp+one+thousand+gifts" target="_blank">One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are</a> by Ann Voskamp</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Plan-What-Doesnt-Thought-Would/dp/0849946506/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1369847434&sr=1-1&keywords=pete+wilson+plan+b" target="_blank">Plan B: What Do You Do When God Doesn’t Show Up the Way You Thought He Would?</a> by Pete Wilson</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Organized-Simplicity-Clutter-Free-Approach-Intentional/dp/1440302634/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1369847582&sr=1-1&keywords=organize+simplicity" target="_blank">Organized Simplicity: The Clutter-Free Approach to Intentional Living</a> by Tsh Oxenreider</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sparkly-Green-Earrings-Catching-Light/dp/1414371713/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1369847783&sr=1-1&keywords=sparkly+green+earrings" target="_blank">Sparkly Green Earrings: Catching the Light at Every Turn</a> by Melanie Shankle</li>
</ol>
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Courtesy of Compassion International: <a href="http://blog.compassion.com/how-you-can-follow-along-on-a-blog-trip-and-introducing-a-contest/#ixzz2Waa9g2iJ" style="color: #003399;">http://blog.compassion.com/how-you-can-follow-along-on-a-blog-trip-and-introducing-a-contest/#ixzz2Waa9g2iJ</a></div>
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The contest ends on Thursday, June 20th at 4 p.m. MT. The winners will be announced during a <a href="http://resourcefulmommy.com/12342/compassion-international-nicaragua-twitter-party/" target="_blank">Twitter chat</a> at 7 pm ET (that would be 6 pm CT). Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23CompassionBloggers&src=typd" target="_blank">#CompassionBloggers</a> for the Twitter chat.</div>
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So, follow along. There are going to be some great stories come out of this trip. And some beautiful photography. I'm looking forward to seeing what <a href="http://www.keelymariescott.com/" target="_blank">Keely Marie Scott</a> comes up with.</div>
<!-- start LinkyTools script --><script src="http://www.linkytools.com/thumbnail_linky_include.aspx?id=200306" type="text/javascript" ></script><!-- end LinkyTools script -->nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-86844964428835526412013-05-13T11:49:00.000-07:002013-05-13T11:49:35.882-07:00You can't take it with youLast night I picked up a copy of <a href="http://fdluxe.dallasnews.com/" target="_blank">FD Luxe</a>, a free fashion magazine. They often have interesting articles and sometimes a friend has photography featured, so I always grab a copy when I run across one. The <a href="http://fdluxe.dallasnews.com/2013/04/the-diva-domesticated.html/" target="_blank">story</a> catching my eye this time was about the renowned opera singer, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lily_Pons" target="_blank">Lily Pons</a>.<br />
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It's made up of bits and pieces from news stories written across the years about Pons. She apparently knew everyone in the entertainment world and beyond. Her Dallas home was filled with great works of art and cultured friends.<br />
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This is the bit that jumped out at me:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>SEPTEMBER 1985</strong>“In her day, Pons had been a major
international celebrity. She ate barbecue with Dwight Eisenhower in the
White House. She was presented the French Legion of Honor by Charles de
Gaulle. When she died, mementos of her glamorous life were disposed of
in a giant estate sale that was open to the public. A picture of her
partying with actor Humphrey Bogart went for 50 cents. Chatty letters
from Princess Grace and Prince Rainier went for $5, as did a personal
note from Princess Elizabeth thanking Pons for a wedding present.” — <em>The Dallas Morning News</em></blockquote>
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I don't know if she died surround by loved ones and friends. But, it does look as if no one claimed her stuff. Was her stuff important to her? She held onto it until the end. Maybe she had it tucked away and never thought about it. She did keep it though. It was, in some sort of fashion, still in her possession. <br />
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And, she didn't take it with her.<br />
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No matter how much you have of anything (insert what you wish here), when you die, it doesn't go with you.<br />
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And, collecting and keeping doesn't hold you here.<br />
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You still go.<br />
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I've been thinking a lot lately about not wanting to burden my children with stuff they have to get rid of when I die. I want to pare down what I have to be only things I absolutely love and/or use. If I can combine them be things I love <i>and</i> use, then great! <br />
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Lily Pons might have done all that before she died and the stuff in the little blurb might have been all that was left. If so, bully for her. <br />
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Or, whatever the French equivalent is for "bully for her." <br />
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<br />nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-87625642206143829462013-04-25T08:07:00.000-07:002013-04-25T08:07:35.380-07:00So, I carry this disease<i>I carry this disease called Malaria. </i><br />
<br />
<i>I didn't ask to have it or have the ability to pass it on to others. </i><br />
<br />
<i>But, the fact is I do. </i><br />
<br />
<i>You see, I'm a female mosquito with protists running through my tiny little body. </i><br />
<br />
<i>A bite from me could be deadly.</i><br />
<br />
<i> I start getting hungry around dusk and hunt for food until I'm all full with somebody's blood. </i><br />
<br />
<i> It's getting a little trickier to find a meal in my neck of the woods. </i><br />
<br />
<i>People are starting to get these net thingies to hang over their beds.
Makes it harder for me to eat.</i><br />
<br />
<i>I've heard the nets are provided by a <a href="http://www.compassion.com/malaria-intervention.htm?referer=96738" target="_blank">special fund</a> at Compassion.</i><br />
<br />
<i>I have no I idea what <a href="http://www.compassion.com/" target="_blank">Compassion</a> is, that's just what I've heard.</i><br />
<br />
<i>I do know that because of these nets fewer people are getting sick.</i><br />
<br />
<i>And, I've heard there are a lot of homes without nets, a lot of kids unprotected from me feeding on them.</i><br />
<br />
<i>I'm headed there now.</i><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/LftEavUydNk?rel=0" width="560"></iframe>
<!-- start LinkyTools script --><script src="http://www.linkytools.com/thumbnail_linky_include.aspx?id=192461" type="text/javascript"></script><!-- end LinkyTools script -->nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-71416388367530507422013-04-15T10:31:00.000-07:002013-04-15T10:31:38.942-07:00These Children Are A Most Wonderful ThingI have this thing for people with special needs. I like them. I've always found myself drawn to them.<br />
<br />
Not sure why. <br />
<br />
When I was growing up, long, long ago...people with special needs were tucked away and not seen out in public very much. They were never in any of my classes. Now, I did grow up in very small towns, so my public was always very limited. I might have been exposed to more if I had been in a large city or large school system. I don't know.<br />
<br />
Maybe, when I was younger, it was the novelty of being in their presence. <br />
<br />
What I do know is I never felt fear or disgust. I always felt drawn by love. <br />
<br />
All these years later, I have a special needs daughter (by way of China) and a special needs nephew and special needs cousins and <a href="http://imransomed.blogspot.com/2008/08/im-in-love.html" target="_blank">special needs friends. </a><br />
<br />
So, when the latest <a href="http://www.compassion.com/sponsordonor/compassionmagazine/" target="_blank">Compassion Magazine</a> arrived I was excited to see the cover story <a href="http://www.compassion.com/magazine/highly-vulnerable-highly-valued.htm" target="_blank"><i>Highly Vulnerable Highly Valued.</i></a><br />
<i><br /></i>
Watch Erick's story:<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/U8tpjR8Y3ro?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
One in 10 children worldwide has special needs, while one in 5 of the world's poorest has special needs.
<br />
<br />
Interested in sponsoring a child with special needs? Click <a href="http://www.compassion.com/special-needs-children.htm?referer=128018">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-82629563801000499332013-04-03T10:17:00.000-07:002013-04-03T10:23:35.600-07:00Change a life todaySome people think changing a life for the good is a very hard process. Sometimes it is and if you have the capacity to go through the very hard process then you should. Sometimes, though, it is very easy to change a life.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://my.compassionsunday.com/lovemercy2013" target="_blank">I've (and Compassion) made it very easy for you. </a><br />
<br />
Change the life of a little girl.<br />
Change the life of someone in poverty.<br />
Change the life, because you can.<br />
<br />
You might find this interesting, especially if questions are bouncing around in your head.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Research on the outcome of child sponsorship will be published in the April 2013 issue of the <i>Journal of Political Economy</i>. Research that was conducted by Dr. Bruce Wydick, professor for the Department of Economics at the University of San Francisco.<br />
<br />
This
independent research shows that children who participated in
Compassion's holistic child development through the sponsorship program
stayed in school longer, were more likely to have salaried or
white-collar employment and were more likely to be leaders in their
communities and churches than their peers who did not participate in our
program.</blockquote>
<br />
So, go ahead.<br />
<a href="http://my.compassionsunday.com/lovemercy2013" target="_blank">Take a peek. </a><br />
Change a life.<br />
<br />
<!-- start LinkyTools script --><script src="http://www.linkytools.com/thumbnail_linky_include.aspx?id=188504" type="text/javascript" ></script><!-- end LinkyTools script -->nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-3190872990930653742013-03-01T08:17:00.001-08:002013-03-01T08:17:38.095-08:00I'm leaving on a jet planeToday is the day the 2013 South Africa journey begins. <br />
<br />
On Sunday evening we'll arrive at the <a href="http://tenthousandhomes.org/" target="_blank">Ten Thousand Homes</a> property. I'm looking forward to hugging some necks! <br />
<br />
<br />
Here are some blogs that have ties with Ten Thousand Homes.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://kacychaffin.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">KNOWN</a><br />
<a href="http://www.heartsforza.com/" target="_blank">Hearts For South Africa</a><br />
<a href="http://jeremynjenprice.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">i believe in love</a><br />
<a href="http://michaelandlindseykaufman.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Journey of Hope</a><br />
<br />
I suggest you check them out to learn more about what's happening in their neck of the woods.<br />
<br />
What will I be doing there? I'll be working with the team at the feeding programs and teaching at the Compassion Discipleship School and whatever else comes up.<br />
<br />
And, now, I'm trying to get excited about a really LOOOOOOONG flight or two.<br />
<br />nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-43697532138450265952013-02-14T09:34:00.002-08:002013-02-14T09:36:23.059-08:00What Prompts and Guides You To Serve Others?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5fcRToD3ZveDBgsaeJwx3MsdLjVvugVzV82Jcu4b1fI8iVP5bLIa0nCvkx2xuZwy4230ks1jx-ia3FBzFu41HFWg5tVeWjT25SDhfecUeokiRRovw9YeeGgYVyuJqm6ASmz1tCZamnhE/s1600/Matthew25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5fcRToD3ZveDBgsaeJwx3MsdLjVvugVzV82Jcu4b1fI8iVP5bLIa0nCvkx2xuZwy4230ks1jx-ia3FBzFu41HFWg5tVeWjT25SDhfecUeokiRRovw9YeeGgYVyuJqm6ASmz1tCZamnhE/s320/Matthew25.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
I can't tell you exactly when Matthew 25 jumped out and grabbed me by the throat. I just know it did. It's a group of verses that, if you grew up in church, you've heard your entire life. But, for me, at some point it came alive. It stopped being just a group of verses found in the book of Matthew.<br />
<br />
<br />
And, now that it has me by the throat, I'm not sure how anyone can casually read it, which is judgmental of me, I know.<br />
<br />
If you want to see it in something besides the King's English:<br />
"...I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was homeless and you gave me a room, I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me." The Message.<br />
<br />
There are so many different ways to do the above. Even if you live in a remote place with only the internet to keep you company you can participate in doing some of the above. <a href="http://http//www.compassion.com" target="_blank">Compassion International </a>is only a click away. Look at all of those faces needing someone to "feed" them. Compassion does a lot more beyond providing physical food.<br />
<br />
If you are looking for something to do in the DFW area let me know. There are plenty of places and ways to help.<br />
<br />
Another verse that is almost constantly on my mind is Micah 6:8. I love it so much I made my daughter marry a guy named Micah. Not really. She did that all on her own.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
He's already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It's quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, and don't take yourself too seriously - take God seriously.</blockquote>
<br />
<i>Do justice, love mercy, walk humbly.</i> I repeat that in my head...often. Especially the walk humbly part. Especially when those judgmental thoughts start pushing in. <br />
<br />
Check out what prompts and guides others:<br />
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<br />nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-35729514958562016802013-01-28T08:32:00.000-08:002013-01-28T08:32:05.110-08:00Makes my heart smile<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOGwidqn6ecDS2ABkwLIaPiyL9mtQ1ZbdmAEoBrk5DFVXvXVd9Zs9joSJ_9kcel_IHJ9AZfnO1ddq-TaG1MQFB4LMU_xm7DH0eN4_VQI14JdAdcs2VZGUVgWo3WlT3Vb5I6501hoVND54/s1600/IMG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOGwidqn6ecDS2ABkwLIaPiyL9mtQ1ZbdmAEoBrk5DFVXvXVd9Zs9joSJ_9kcel_IHJ9AZfnO1ddq-TaG1MQFB4LMU_xm7DH0eN4_VQI14JdAdcs2VZGUVgWo3WlT3Vb5I6501hoVND54/s320/IMG.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>
I don't <a href="http://www.compassion.com/Default.htm" target="_blank">sponsor</a> Gabriela so she will write me, but it does make my heart sing when she does.<br /><br />nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-34212464340925642752013-01-24T10:11:00.000-08:002013-01-24T10:11:10.186-08:00DisciplineDiscipline - That's my word for the year. I hadn't really been searching for a word of the year. But, in the silence of early morning, it came to me.<br />
<br />
Since the summer I've been working on more healthy eating habits. I've gone plant strong and stuck with it. That took discipline and when I look back on it, I'm a little shocked, because discipline is something of which I've always had very little.<br />
<br />
Then I stumbled onto Dallas Willard's book <i>The Spirit of The Disciplines </i>(I know, I know, it's been around forever) and it has been extremely helpful in pointing out my lack of discipline, not just in the spiritual realm, but everywhere. I've been taking my time reading it so it will sink in. I think I've renewed it from the library three times now.<br />
<br />
So, that's it. My word for the year is <i>Discipline.</i> nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-91286259907084008542013-01-22T08:11:00.000-08:002013-01-22T08:11:18.709-08:00Vegan Banana PancakesHaven't been on here since October. Sort of hit a blog wall. Thinking about climbing over it. Maybe putting this up will help.<br />
<br />
Last night I made up a new recipe for pancakes. I love good pancakes, but my best, favorite recipe has the dry ingredients swimming in butter and I don't do butter anymore.<br />
<br />
This is what I came up with and my husband ate them <i>and</i> liked them. That's huge.<br />
<br />
Vegan Banana Pancakes<br />
<br />1 cup whole wheat flour<br />
2 to 4 Tablespoons flaxseed meal<br />
1 Tablespoon organic brown sugar (fair trade, of course)<br />
1 teaspoon baking powder <br />
1/2 teaspoon of salt<br />
1/4 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk<br />
1 small banana, mashed<br />
4 tablespoons unsweetened apple sauce<br />
<br />
In your best pancake batter bowl, mix dry ingredients. Add wet ingredients, stirring only enough to mix. Allow batter to rest 20 to 30 minutes. Cook on your favorite griddle or skillet. Makes 6 to 8 pancakes, depending on the size you choose.<br />
<br />
For the syrup, I blended blueberries, put a dab on each pancake and ate them like tacos.<br />
<br />
Yum!<br />
<br />nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-55917959396217326762012-10-31T20:27:00.001-07:002012-10-31T20:27:41.883-07:00Day 31 - Fair Trade Month - Let's end on a sweet note.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5M5gIvTjku6qQIDhSaGKPwH4zb_dHUH5CHQiMNYtUTs7N6wx2atAWRmwry8_7eWVnZ_FO04uXcceJa6G92JoAS1qPJOvIpzSC8VCB3Z7W_ww1uTioEEzfuu4bO8UnLjWlQHuQuFfK7w/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5M5gIvTjku6qQIDhSaGKPwH4zb_dHUH5CHQiMNYtUTs7N6wx2atAWRmwry8_7eWVnZ_FO04uXcceJa6G92JoAS1qPJOvIpzSC8VCB3Z7W_ww1uTioEEzfuu4bO8UnLjWlQHuQuFfK7w/s1600/photo.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709634788409524199.post-47779471868526637342012-10-30T19:25:00.001-07:002012-10-30T19:25:34.863-07:00Day 30 - Fair Trade Month - Ruby Red<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfCwh2vlf9mLdIPvJT8Qpo1yy1T0BZus8nXmfIQIbdRczkP_BYpWYpNaMB5FPGU469RplSr1_XNAo4gnagyzr_AzwyG3jisyXHqlUHWZcUClou4iH6RGM37A4l_75DkQm53zaxD4hgsFM/s1600/318909_10152239520555612_750919045_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfCwh2vlf9mLdIPvJT8Qpo1yy1T0BZus8nXmfIQIbdRczkP_BYpWYpNaMB5FPGU469RplSr1_XNAo4gnagyzr_AzwyG3jisyXHqlUHWZcUClou4iH6RGM37A4l_75DkQm53zaxD4hgsFM/s320/318909_10152239520555612_750919045_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Dorthy's favorite!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.alterecofoods.com/" target="_blank">Alter Eco</a></div>
nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11143369952418105492noreply@blogger.com0