Our Visit to El Coyote & the Moreno Family

Well, I've been off work for 2 weeks now. My husband and I have traveled over 1600 miles. The Lord blessed us yet again with a wonderful time of fellowship, rest, and renewal. I can't get enough of Mexico! We spent lots of time reflecting on all the adventures over the last 7 years that God has taken us to different areas of Mexico to share God's love. I smile when I think about the life-long friendships we have made.

One of those friendships is with the Moreno family in a village called El Coyote near San Luis Potosi. The couple, Octavio & Floralis, are originally from Mexico City and have answered God's calling to be missionaries in this very remote location. They have given their lives to serve in El Coyote and the surrounding areas for the last 14 years. Seven years ago, Jeff and 11 other men traveled with Vision Ministries and spent a week laying block to build the church Octavio pastors. Over the years, we have remained in contact with the Moreno family. The bond is incredible to me. They are part of our family and we are part of theirs. They have traveled to Texas twice and this was our 3rd visit to their home. They have been blessed with four children, Ian, Dana, Rui, & Nuno. This beautiful family has taught me the beauty of God's love in the simplest of ways. Their way of life in the village is very simple, yet they are thankful and satisfied with every single thing God gives them. I was reminded many times throughout the week of how God intended families to give, share, and love. I had forgotten that this kind of family was possible.

We were blessed to spend 5 days with these incredible people. God knew it was exactly what we needed. Floralis kept telling us "she was sorry that we must be so bored". We laughed and told her we were not bored but rather grateful for the "quiet" time without the craziness we had been experiencing lately. Sometimes we have to be reminded to get away from the TV, the cell phones, computer, and yes, even our families to experience what God has for us all over again.

Today, the verse on my "verse-a-day" calendar hit the nail on the head. The verse reminds me so much of our time in this little village:

"The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose" Isaiah 35:1

So Much To Do

So much to do, So little time to do it! Today, I have been making my "to do" lists for the week in preparation for our mission trip to Mexico. It is hard sometimes to set aside all the stresses at home in anticipation of what God is going to do the next 2 weeks.

My oldest step-daughter is scheduled to have a cervical biopsy tomorrow. She doesn't even know that we know about it, but we will be praying just the same. I try hard to let it all go and have even said I was "washing my hands" of her. However, each day I find myself concerned about her health, her lifestyle, and her overall well-being. I sometimes wish I was the evil, uncaring witch she thinks I am, just so I wouldn't feel the hurt!!! That sounds crazy.

My husband and I are trying to remain consistent. Our hopes are that one day she will be able to look back and see that we always wanted what was best for her and that we have always loved her unconditionally. It hurts so much to continue giving and caring only to receive hatred in return. I wish she would let us help her through these hard times...

Gearing up for Mexico

This weekend was nice. My hubby and I actually had 3 days off together! The weather was beautiful and we even road the bikes 2 days in a row. There were no major events with the family, so it even proved a little bit relaxing. AAAAHHHH...

Now for a busy work week. We leave again for Mexico in 7 days and will be gone for almost 2 weeks. I can't wait! The plans are to drive down to visit some friends of ours near San Luis Potosi for 5 days, and then travel back up north to the city of Monclova to work on a ministry house with Vision Ministries. They recently purchased a home there to renovate for groups to stay when they come to do mission work. I understand they already have quite a bit of work done and have acquired 16 sets of bunk beds! Praise God! I know the trip will be a welcomed change to the stressful routine we have grown accustomed to the last few months. I know the Lord has great things planned, He always sees us through!

If you are interested in more information about Vision Ministries of America:
www.vmoa.info

A Nice Day for a Ride

What a beautiful day today! My husband and I joined up with a few biker friends for a little day ride across the state line to New Mexico. We are only about 45 miles away from this small body of water. As you can see, we received quite a welcome from the locals there. I had to run to the convenience store to get them a special treat! How dare we show up empty handed and expect to enjoy their lake! I praise God for the little things in life. A gorgeous sunny day with my husband, my bike and a few friends is exactly what I needed! Thank you Jesus!