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Whomever it was that wrote the theme song... it needs a re-work... ork... ork... ork...ork.

That echo is telling me that there's not a soul around here.

I can see for miles and miles and miles and miles.


*click*

Here is something that I wrote, only this past November:

I feel as if I've been struggling just to keep my head above water. I have been dehydrated for some time, half expecting someone to come to me and fixing all my inadequacies for me. I haven't been reading scripture at all for a while now and I pretty much pray for simple things. I've lost my fire and it feels as if the oxygen is getting so thin that my flame is only a flicker of dimness and not as illuminating as it once was. I'm ashamed that I allowed myself to get like this. I'm grateful that God is merciful and loves me as I am! His grace is sufficient!! If I become more focused on God, then everything else will sort itself out.

Since then, I have been seeking God and His divine will. He has confirmed through many scriptures as well as through other people, and Jim's willingness. Much like you said, Chaelee, God is bigger than we know, and more faithful than we understand. God has rained on me and I have blossomed! No longer dehydrated. God has breathed new life into me once again, renewing and refreshing me. My eyes are open to see His direction, my ears are open to hear His calling, and my heart is softened to be obedient to follow.

Glory and honor be His forever and always!!

So, here's a random thing for those of us who still stop by here every now and again and blow the dust off in search of something new...

I came across this the other day. Something I wrote sometime last year.

God is awesome. He's larger than the universe and calls the stars by name. He designed them and calls them out one by one. He's beyond them and us, so much larger than we can imagine. He doesn't just fill the universe with His presence, He's beyond it. So much larger than we can ever imagine. So much more powerful, beautiful, holy and pleasing. He is love, and love in abundance. He is power, more power than imaginable. He is just, more than we can ever know. He is holy. Yet He chooses to let His eyes rest upon us, His hand upon our hearts, run our hairs through His fingers as He counts each one. The depths of our hearts are in His hand as much as the depths of the oceans. He knit us together, He calls us by name, He knows us in and out, and He loves us still the same. We are part of His creation in a completely unique way and yet He chooses to lavish His love upon us and call us by His Name. He has planted within us His word of life and care and He watches over it to grow it and fulfill it. We have the life within us, that powerful word that He has spoken over us is within us. He dwells within us.

Well, I was going to ask if people were still visiting this site but there seems to be some action so I thought I would jump on board. Why not make it 3 posts this month? ;) I'm home and things are going well. I'm in transition and I'm beginning to dislike that word. I run into it far to often. I feel like all my emotions are right at the surface and I don't know what is going on in my life . . . again. Sometimes I wonder if I ever really will know what is going on. Maybe it's better that I don't know. Make sense? Not likely but that's ok. I'm asking God what He created me to do? Why am I here? What's my purpose? Dramatic? Maybe. Except that i'm serious. I don't even know what's in my own heart most of the time. How I feel or even what I want. I don't know (by the way that is my favorite phrase :) I want to know God more and I want to do what He wants me to do. I don't just want to jump on a good idea and go for it. I want to be led by Him. God knows my heart and all things work together for His glory even if I don't understand anything. Patient endurance . . . as long as i'm moving forward it's all good eh? Have I mentioned i've been home for 2 weeks? hahahahha.

A couple pictures related to the post below. :)

Well, we had a blast down in Decorah! Jason & Chaelee were phenominal hosts and we felt so welcome at the Magpie and at the cookout! Thanks to all who were there and made us feel as if we were home! We were definitly blessed. It was a pleasure to finally meet "the gang" and hang out with our 'Merican friends. Truly a joyous and memorable weekend! Next time we'll have to bring our tent and stay longer 80)

Hey everybody,
I'll be home in 3 or so weeks. Wow. It doesn't seem real so far. I did experience some tears on Sunday so it is slowly starting to set in that i'll be leaving this lovely place.

I just wrote this article yesterday for the Decorah Journal's Religion column. Let me know what you think.

Have a blessed day :)

Freedom in Christ

Jesus came to give us life and life more abundantly (John 10:10), to give us a hope and a future (Jer 29:11) and to free us from the law of sin and death (Rom 8:2).

We are all pretty familiar with the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17);

Then God instructed the people as follows: "I am the LORD your God, who rescued you from slavery in Egypt. "Do not worship any other gods besides me. "Do not make idols of any kind, whether in the shape of birds or animals or fish. You must never worship or bow down to them, for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God who will not share your affection with any other god! I do not leave unpunished the sins of those who hate me, but I punish the children for the sins of their parents to the third and fourth generations. But I lavish my love on those who love me and obey my commands, even for a thousand generations. "Do not misuse the name of the LORD your God. The LORD will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name. "Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days a week are set apart for your daily duties and regular work, but the seventh day is a day of rest dedicated to the LORD your God. On that day no one in your household may do any kind of work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your livestock, and any foreigners living among you. For in six days the LORD made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them; then he rested on the seventh day. That is why the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy.
"Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the LORD your God will give you. "Do not murder. "Do not commit adultery. "Do not steal. "Do not testify falsely against your neighbor. "Do not covet your neighbor's house. Do not covet your neighbor's wife, male or female servant, ox or donkey, or anything else your neighbor owns."
Just like our parents telling us to look both ways before we cross the street, God our Father has put these rules or guidelines in place to protect us. God gave us these basic principals to be safe in the world that He created. However, following these guidelines do not make us complete, whole or in right standing with God.

In Matthew 5:21-22 Jesus explains that it is not only the physical act of murder that is sin but that being angry with our brother is also reason for judgment. He also goes on to explain that "whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart." (Matt 5:28). God is not concerned about how well we follow the "rules" but rather with the condition of our heart. He's more concerned with our heart motives; why we do what we do rather than what we do. In light of these teachings our sin nature is illuminated and we recognize that we are in need of help.

The purpose of the Law is to point us to Jesus and help us to realize our need for Him, a Savior. Our state of heart qualifies us to be chosen by God. Jesus said "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill." (Matt 5:17). Our heavenly Father knows that we cannot fulfill the Law ourselves because of the choice that Adam made in the Garden of Eden but Jesus provides a way for us (see Rom 5:6-21).

Faith in Jesus makes us justified and in right standing with our Father. We are unable to change our own hearts by following rules but Jesus does in us what we in our own strength can not. He changes us from the inside out.

"that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God." (John 3:15-21).

Hey everyone!! Jim and I are excited to be planning a trek over the border to fabtabulous Decorah, Iowa for September long weekend (Sept 2 - 5)!! Did anyone want us to bring anything from Canada over? Nothing too extravigant though! We don't want to get stuck at the border!! LOL I can't wait to see everyone and savor the flavor of one of the Magpie's infamous beverages and muffins!! Whoo hoo!!! See y'all soon!

Hey All! I know that I told you all back in December that my sister was pregnant (who had previously lost her baby at 6 months.) Well, for those of you who dont know, she had a baby boy on May 27th!! The same day that her daughter turned 5 years old!! His name is Benjamin Thomas! He is soooo very cute!! He is doing really well. He was 10 pounds!! YIKES!! Also, in case I didn't tell ya'll, my other sister Nessa is pregnant with her second child and she is due in October!! Yeah!! ;) Babies.....babies.....babies!!! Woo-Hoo!! I'm loving it!! Well, I miss all of you Winnipegers like crazy. Here's an idea.....come to Decorah and visit!! ;) Love you guys!
Kelly-Rae

Here I am in beautiful Decorah, Iowa. Have I ever mentioned that I love it here!? I can't believe that my year is nearly up. Time really does fly.

I have no idea where to begin because it's just been so extremely long.

I do have some news . . . the doctors in emergency finally figured out the big mystery of the "tongue issue". I have been officially diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis (an autoimmune disease). Yeah, pretty much sucks but the good news is that there is medication that works. I feel normal for the first time in 3 years! The medication takes care of the symptoms but my body is still out of whack and I need healing. Thank you for your continued support in prayer. I know that this break through is a direct result of God's mercy.

In other news the Magpie will be closed on Saturday, August 6th 2005 for Crissy and Adam's wedding! I'm honoured and blessed to be part of the wedding party. The colour of the bridesmaid dresses are espresso! Ha! I love it.

I'm fast approaching transition time (once again). I'm praying for wisdom and direction as I plan to head home in September. I'm sad to think about leaving. I've met so many amazing people. The family here is like no other. At least it's only JUNE :)

hey everyone!! I was just wondering where everyone is?!! The last post was in January sometime and it's now May!! Wow, time flies when your having fun!! Fill me in on some things you're doing or lack there of. Let me know you're still out there.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! I cant believe that another year is starting. Where is the time going? I hope that all of you made it to midnight last night. I sure did! 2:30 to be exact! :) Well, I have something that I would like to tell all of you people in Winnipeg....most of you know that my sister lost her baby last May when she was 6 months pregnant. Well, this year for Christmas my favorite present was learning that she is pregnant again, and she just had her ultrasound and everything looks perfect!! The baby is completely normal and healthy!! I am sooooo excited, and I just had to share that with all of you! So anyways, I hope that all of you have a fantastic New Year's Day, not to mention a fantastic whole year! (Jim and Neil.....The Hawkeyes play in their bowl game today!! My whole family and friend are decked out in our Iowa stuff!! I'll let you know how it goes! :) )
Kelly-Rae

Hey you Winnipegers!! Just wanted to let you know that it is FINALLY snowing in Iowa!! WOO-HOO!!!!!! Jim and Karla- thanks for the order you put in for us! It got delivered tonight. I guess we are only supposed to get like 1 or 2 inches, but I dont care....snow is snow!! It's gonna get real cold, too, so, I am super excited!! Well, hope you all had a great start to your week! I love you all so much and miss you all a ton! I guess the only thing left to say now is....LET IT SNOW!!!!!
Kelly-Rae

Howdy! Jim and I are getting ready for the holidays that are fast approaching. Starting to send out Christmas invites and Christmas cards. Getting ready for the "Big Binge" that's happening at our place this year. I've decided to have our Christmas Dinner guests bring something, but not food. one couple is going to bring the centrepiece, another couple is bringing the game, others are bringing the Christmas napkins, and someone else is bringing the baking for after dinner (I don't have the time this year!). What can I say, I love to cook!! At least I know what is in the food and how many points they are (I've also joined Weight Watchers to give me some much needed acountability in my weight loss journey).

Cheers to everyone during this hectic time of year! Prayers for continued joy, grace, and many blessings!!!

Luv y'all!

Jim had a surprise call this past Sunday. His 49 year old cousin past away of a massive heart attack. I'm not sure if he knew the Lord or not. Jim and his parents were quite upset over the news and have gone to BC for the funeral. They left Wednesday morning and Jim will be back home Friday night. His parents might stay longer to console Jim's Aunt & Uncle. Meanwhile, here on the home front, I am in charge of puppy sitting for the In-Laws. Oh, the things I do!

Well, Adam and I made it back to Iowa. It took us about exactly 12 hours to reach my home! It was a long 12 hour ride, but it went really well. I had my sister closest in age to me, her husband and their 9 month old son awaiting my arrival, along with my mom and dad (of course) and my oldest sister's oldest daughter!! It was really exciting! My best friend got here about 3 minutes after I did! It was great to see some of my family and to see the church people again. I am finding myself really missing Canada and all of you wonderful people that I met. Winnipeg really became like my home, and I have all of you awesome people to thank for that. You make it really hard to be away....I miss you all so much. Amy, I think everyone is getting tired of me talking about you! I miss you! Well, I suppose that is it for me for now! I love all of you Winnipegers and I miss you soooooooooooooooo much already. hugs and kisses
Kelly-Rae

We said our last goodbye's last night and there weren't as many tears as I had expected. I wasn't the overemotional blubbering basketcase that I felt like inside. It felt like Christmas for the gang, as gifts were easily distributed and much appreciated, I'm sure! Food, fun, and friends - what could be better!!!

Well, I must admit, I am very sad to see all the "students" leaving!! 8( They are going this weekend and I will miss them tremendously! Here are some things I've grown to love and admire about our wonderful new friends:

Nina is one wild woman, who loves the Lord and has a unique style that I love! She has great character and self-awareness that I've never quite seen anywhere else. You, Nina, are one special chick!!

Kelly is a very talkative person who is a major movie buff who loves nature and animals. Did I not mention that she's a huge sports fan!! Jim got along with her great! She's a sweet woman that I have no problem going to if ever I need anything. She is one that you could trust with your life!

Chris is a quite man of few words (that I know anyway), but when he does talk, watch out! He is a very wise person with an intriguing sence of humor that I'm going to miss. He is an awesome musician with great talent!!!

Adam is also a pretty quiet guy who enjoys his computer! Unfortunately, I didn't get much of a chance to visit with him and I regret the few opportunities that I missed. What I do know is that he loves his family and his country and is very loyal to those he knows well!

Jason is a very talented musician, like Chris. He plays marvelous music when he's just messing around, but when requests come in, the pressure is on and he tends to play very silly songs (and Larry is nowhere around-for those who know Veggie tales). He has a goofy sence of humor that I seem to relate to 8D and is open to try anything. He loves the Lord wholeheartedly and it is very evident in even the small aspects of his life.

Chaelee is a very special woman who will go to the ends of the earth for God. She has a goofy sence of humor, like Jason. She enjoys seeing from different angles, the many views from her camera lense and isn't afraid of showing off her unique sence of self.

You all have special gifts and talents that God has so lovingly given you! Be blessed in all that you do and may you always find joy in where God leads you!!! I love you all!

Hey, I'm in Decorah, Iowa. I missed thanksgiving but I was telling people here that we wear pink in celebration of Canadian thanksgiving, that it's a national tradition. One guy believed me and I had to tell him today that I was kidding :) things are going really well. I've had many new experiences like setting off firecrackers, wearing chain mail, looking at the moon through a telescope, getting up at 4 am, eating cheese curds, witnessing Dale's burning lobster impression, seeing Millennium Park and Madison Greene. Best of all I've been able to have fires in my yard after work and walk from the Magpie to a waterfall AND there's more than one. These are things that just can't be done in Winnipeg. I am blessed to be here. Oh yeah, I actually enjoyed summer once I got here. I even had a sunburn. There is however no Grand Beach.

The people here rock. I'm learning about unconditional love, being a servant as well as putting others before myself. I came here with good intentions . . . to help out and to be obedient to what I believe God was saying to do. As it turns out i'm being blessed more than i'm being a blessing. Just when I thought I was doing Him a favor . . . . ;P God is doing and moving and i'm thankful that He's alive.

Paula, Marco . . . Steph, Rebecca . . . Where are you?

Well, I've figured out that it is our computer that doesn't want me to post, since I am at work right now and I am blogging. Anyway, I wanted to share some wonderful experiences that have happened in the past few months. First, I have to mention the start of Joppa, WOW what a ride! From one looking in, I must admit that I should've signed up!! Joanna and Sarah were a joy and pleasure to have stay with us for the first month of the school. Man, the stuff we did and things we shared!! Since then, the school has been fantastic! I have grown to enjoy much of their company. Some of them...okay, all of them, are, how shall I put it....unique, excentric, well, you get the picture. I love 'em all!!! They've shared in the joy, oh sweet joy, of me turning 30. Sweet bliss! 8P What a surprise party that was! They've also shared in the wonders of our house warming. Who knows what will be shared next. They have all experienced their first Canadian Thanksgiving and I really haven't asked how everyone is recovering yet.

Anyways, I gotta get back to work. Hopefully we'll figure out what the heck is wrong with our computer at home and then you're all in trouble. Just kidding!!

Love ya,
Karla

This is a new post just to put something above the picture of me so everytime I load this I won't have to look at it directly ;) We're still here in Winnipeg for another couple months, so probably won't be spending much time online for awhile yet.

Hope everyone's doing well!

Is this a post on the Hub? Testing... one two three... um... can you hear me now? How 'bout now?

Hello everyone!! It's been some time since anyone has posted so I figured I would write a few words. It's getting to be summer and I know that there are going to be quite a few changes happening, I just wanted to know what everyone's expectations for this summer holds. For those of you who are coming to Joppa, what do you want take back with you? What experiences do you think will change your life?

God is raising a generation bent on purity.

Religion has gripped these generations. The deadly, intoxicating assurance that everything is okay. From there complacency takes the wheel, and stealing away in the backseat of our comfort death lurks.

"For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it." Matthew 16:25

It takes a divine awakening to the peril we're in before change can be realized. And from that divine awakening, a response is necessary. Complacency is not easily wrested from governing our faculties. And inherent to it's nature, the residue of it's numbing toxicity illicits a habitual dullness that only through disciplined action is it overcome. The present 'freedom from works' mentality has been effectively tempered by the enemy to render us ineffective and has kept us from, in response to God's grace, tearing down the idols that have supplanted His rule in our hearts.

A.W. Tozer stated this nearly fifty years ago when he wrote; "Our woes began when God was forced out of His central shrine and things were allowed to enter. Within the human heart things have taken over. Men have now by nature no peace within their hearts, for God is crowned there no longer, but there in the moral dusk, stubborn and aggressive usurpers fight among themselves for first place on the throne."

God is presently pleading with our hearts to be the One Thing that our passions and seekings come to bear upon. And in the case of many, to be the Only Thing that is sought after. Not personal comfort, or christianity as an escape from the pain of life. In the generation previous, life fueled by the American Dream and the freedom to be successful came to be defined as their purpose. To enjoy life and leave behind a legacy for their children and their children's children. The pursuits of their labors being rooted in personal comfort and satisfaction. And the already tainted message of the Gospel became even more tainted by the culture around it. In striking similarity to the Israelites being influenced by the idolatrous customs of their desert neighbors.

I haven't posted in forever so I'm here posting away in the midnight hour. A friend of mine threw this though at me, and pondering it has gotten me into something deep.

"Christianity isn't something you do, it's who you are."

I was in the shower (duh, as usual) and thinking about all the close calls that I had in the past, I was reminded of Ephesians 1. My mom is taking this couse on Greek, and she was looking at that passage, and let me know that predestined could also be translated as pre-bounded. As in protective boundaries set up by God. Boundaries we can't knowingly stray from. So that's turning laps in my brain, along with that quote, and then this thought. "God saw my eternal incorruptable identity when I was screwing up, and never gave up on me."

Here's my question...and it's deep. I'm probably a heretic. "In light of God's foreknowledge, did my identity change? Or has the change been the renewing of my mind to the truth?" Dangerous theology? Perhaps. But mostly just a question I don't know the answer to.

Any takers?