My Precious Grandmom

If you have followed my blog for any length of time, you probably know that my grandmom is very fragile and often very sick.  Two weeks ago, she had a check-up with the doctor regarding a serious illness and surgery she endured in May. The next day, the doctor called my mom with grandmom's terminal diagnosis - fast-growing cancer in her liver and one lung.

She is truly a woman of the Word, of prayer, and admired by many! Grandmom was once a missionary in the bushes of Sierra Leone, Africa and although her two feet haven't been outside a few home states since her return from Africa, her influence has circled the globe, and her prayers have touched every nation. For many, many years she has financially supported almost as many missionaries and ministries as I have books on my shelf, including Samaritan's Purse, World Missionary Press, missionaries from the Christian Missionary Alliance Church, World Gospel Mission, the Wesleyan Church, and more.

I'm selfish to want her here any longer, enduring more. She wants to be with Jesus! She told me on the night of her diagnosis "my suffering will be short, but eternity will be long!"

For more than 10 years, Grandmom has been writing her testimony and life story in book form.  We praise the Lord that He gave her the strength and sight to finish her final revisions!!!  Once in printed form, this book will certainly be a gem for our family - a book to be cherished long after Grandmom is gone.  In it, she talks about life as a missionary, a pastor's wife, a mother, precious moments with Jesus, and life since Granddad passed away almost 20 years ago. I can't wait to read it and I pray that I will never take her written words for granted. 

Thank you for continuing to pray for Grandmom and that she will be with the Lord before she suffers much more.

Whenever I am tempted, whenever clouds arise,

When songs give place to sighing, when hope within me dies,

I draw the closer to Him, from care He sets me free;

His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;

His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

Cherishing her legacy,
Jewel

Carpe Diem

I HATE that few things in life cause me reflect on "today" as death and the fear of death.  I HATE that I am so guilty of taking TODAY for granted and not taking advantage of each moment in time.   Today, I am again facing this paradox of life and death - of living abundantly and of abruptly reaching the end.


“You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment. Fools stand on their island of opportunities and look toward another land. There is no other land; there is no other life but this.” -Henry David Thoreau
Below, I have shared my friend Jason Helm's facebook status.  Jason and I attended the same middle school, high school, and university; but because he was a number of years ahead of me, our paths never crossed until May 2010, halfway across the globe on the coast of Mozambique, Africa.  During the two months that I was a missionary intern until his watch, Jason really challenged and strengthened me in a lot of ways.  The news that Jason has cancer has made me... simply put: Sad. And reflective.

Carpe Diem... We all know that two word phrase. Latin for “Seize the Day”. It’s always has been in the back of my mind throughout my life. I believe that because of this I haven’t always fit into the mold that life and people have tried to fit me in. I have always tried to follow after Christ and do what I know is right even if it has meant being misunderstood or unaccepted by others. One of
the biggest decisions in my life was to take my new wife and move to Africa to serve as teachers and missionaries in Mozambique. The ones closest to us understood but many did not. We have been in Mozambique full time now for 7 years and have seen some truly amazing things and would not give up that experience for anything. Among many things we have received two of the most wonderful and amazing blessings in our lives, which are our children. Two truly African - American blessings whom we love dearly. I know at this point that I am rambling and everyone wants to know how my biopsy came out. With every ounce of strength and courage I tell you that my results did not come out as hoped. I have been diagnosed with cancer. This has been shocking and almost numbing to hear the results today from both the pathologist and oncologist that I do indeed have cancer. We will not know the exact type until Tuesday next week, but it is most likely cancer of the Pancreas that has spread into the liver. I will continue to update all of you as I receive info but I want leave you with a couple questions. Are you going through life on Cruise Control? What have you done today to make and eternal difference?
~Jason

Life… is fragile, is precious, is short!!
Every day is one more page in your life.
Every moment is an opportunity.
Smile and say hello to strangers.
Don’t take your friends or family for granted.
Don’t worry so much over the little things and don’t fight over the little irritations of life.
Say I love you to the people you love.
Enjoy your time where ever you are, at work, at the gym,at the library, resting at your house, in a park …just enjoy every moment.

Please join me in praying for my friend, Jason!

Serving Him,

Jewel

1st Family Camp

Last week, my sweet husband and I spent the week in a small, humble, room on the 100+ -year-old campgrounds that belongs to our district of the Wesleyan Church.  More than 100-yeasr-old!  In 100 years on our campgrounds, think of

♥The number of persons called into ministry!!
♥The number of lives committed and re-committed to Christ!!
♥The number of children who heard the message of salvation for the first time!!
♥The number of sins forgiven!!
♥The number of burdens laid on the altar!!
♥The number of relationships healed and restore!!
♥The number of persons healed!!

God has always been faithful to work in mighty big, mighty powerful, and mighty surprising ways on Fairmount Campgrounds!

Since Family Camp 2011, I have been anxiously awaiting experiencing Family Camp with my husband. Family Camp has been a part of my life for around twenty years, and is an experience that my husband has heard much about. He had no idea what to expect, but he very much enjoyed experiencing the Christian Community like he never had before.

Some of my favorite moments included:
♥Lying in bed, beside my husband, listening to an hour-long crazy, loud storm. A muddy campground isn’t necessarily the ideal, but we needed the rain and how powerful the storm was! I loved it!
♥Swimming at Kokomo Beach with my fun-loving husband and eleven crazy children that I love! When I arrived, my husband had 8-10 children lined up on the side of the pool and they were all jumping in one at-a-time in “wave” fashion. It was quite the show! We jumped, splashed, raced, dunked, and did lots of other crazy things in the pool. Riding in a 15-passenger van with my husband, two friends, and 11 children was no less than very entertaining.
♥Cuddling little bodies in the nursery. For at least the fifth year, I was hired again by the nursery directors to run the two- and three-year-olds class in the evenings. Some evenings were harder than others (getting decent volunteers was like pulling teeth!) and some were more fun than others, but every night I enjoyed cuddling Tea, Isaiah, Micah, Hannah, Garrett, and others.
♥Singing praises to Jesus under a tent in the rain. On Tuesday morning, another loud storm rolled across our campgrounds. Just as we started our worship time – 30 bodies gathered under a tent, behind the barn – the rain fell hard. It soon became too much of a “distraction” and a danger to the instruments and sound equipment, so we were ushered inside the children’s barn for the remainder of service.
♥Walking hand-in-hand or arm-in-arm with my husband around the campgrounds during the “cool” part of the day. The beauty of being on vacation was no agenda! We walked leisurely, stopping at various campsites and cabins, and moving at our own pace – slow!
♥Laughs around the campfires. Many of my friends are still getting to know my husband; those he is comfortable with have seen a side that he so often protects – the very funny side! Some of my best Family Camp memories have been late nights around the campfire. Although there were fewer fires, and fewer late nights this year, memories were made!
♥Chats with Christian brothers and sisters. No book, sermon, study, nor devotional can replace transparent, heart-felt, digging into deep subject matter conversations with sincere brothers and sisters in Christ.

On Sunday evening, the last Family Camp service of 2012, the speaker requested that all children's workers come to the tabernacle and bring our children on the stage following his direction. Because I had been in pre-K nursery, I hadn't heard the Message, but his point seem to be to implore parents and church leaders to stand up for the children, to protect their rights, and to increase their own faith that they may be an example and a rock for the children. It was a powerful moment; one that I was glad I could participate in.

The previous morning, I was able to help serve Communion at the family service. Looking back, I am so glad that I was asked to help, as it was a very powerful and formative experience.  How humbling it was as I repeated to each person

"This is His body and His blood,

which were given for you..."
realizing: He lovingly died for each one - each one of His children, for each of their souls.  Humbling, yet empowering, as I offered the Bread and the Juice; symbols of The Sacrifice, of amazing grace, of His broken body, which saved my broken spirit.

Love, Love, Love,
Jewel

A green Green Card!

Titus received his Green Card! (And yes, it is green!) We are praising the Lord!! He is now a permanent resident (at least until his status expires in 2 years!) The process/journey of applying for a fiancé visa, [Titus] transitioning to the USA, applying for a Green Card, interviews, appointments, documentation, etc. has been a CHALLENGING experience. It has, at times, tested our faith, and brought us to our knees in exhaustion; but through it all, we have seen the Lord MOVE MOUNTAINS and we can stand today and testify to His FAITHFULNESS and His GOODNESS! When Titus was still in Cambodia, every time (3 or 4 times) that we needed to exchange paperwork, there was someone (short-term teams or missionaries) going to and/or from Cambodia/USA at just the right time. This saved us 100’s of dollars, and much time and frustration. The same week that we submitted his Green Card application, I started a full-time, well-paying, job with benefits! The Lord is in the details, and we are so immensely THANKFUL for that! His blessings are new every morning. Praise Him!!

With his Green Card, Titus will be allowed to re-enter the United States. That means… we’re planning a trip to Cambodia! Titus and I have already been talking about how we would LOVE to see his family accept Christ while we are there!! Please, please, please join us in praying for the salvation of his parents, brothers, cousins, and every member of his family! While our time in Cambodia will be short and busy, we plan to commit much of our time and energy sharing God’s Love and Good News with the Hem and Romdenh families.

We do not have dates yet, but I am already raising funds for our next trip. Right now, I have lots of unique and beautiful Cambodian souvenirs (jewelry, wallets, hair accessories, & scarves) for sale, as well as some things that I have hand-made (journals, flower magnets, headbands.) If you are interested in purchasing any of these, browse my  my Facebook (facebook.com/jewelromdenh). Thanks to those who have already supported us in this way!

The Lord has been opening doors [and surprising us!] with opportunities to share our story with 3 other Cambodian-American couples who are also pursuing visas of some kind. One of the couples – Amy and Thanak – found my blog while searching the embassy and visa requirements on the internet. If that alone isn’t surprising – Amy lives less than 40 miles from us! The Lord works in mysterious ways. I never thought that the Lord would be using us in this way (other than helping Jessie & Aldean!) and never did I think that my blog would be so far-reaching! Titus and I were HUGELY blessed by having another couple help us through the visa-application process (Thank you Novs!) and it has truly been a blessing to be used in this way! Pray that God will continue to use us to be a blessing and encouragement for these three couples [and potentially others] and that the Lord will continue to guide them. [Megan and Tee pictured above.]

Additional prayer requests include: Please pray for wisdom and discernment as Titus and I continue to pursue his education at Indiana Wesleyan University. The process has been more complicated than what we anticipated, requiring receiving his transcripts directly from Cambodia, not accepting any of his credits from the WBI, and requiring an expensive English proficiency test.

Thank you so much for all your prayers and the support that you have provided for us as a couple in the last year. We have truly been blessed by having so many wonderful friends and family members! To those who we do not hear from regularly: please, let us know how you are doing!

Serving Him,
Titus & Jewel

The Pysanka on My Desk

 

Over the weekend, a co-worker returned from a one-week educational trip to the Ukraine. I was so, so, so touched (and surprised!) when she came to my desk on Monday morning with three things: two bags of caramel candies and an egg - a beautifully hand-painted [rather: written on with bees wax,] wooden, traditional Ukrainian egg called a “pysanka.” (She didn’t tell me this… I wondered what this ‘thing’ actually was, so I did what any resourceful person would do, I googled it!)

I was so touched that Joanne thought of me! She doesn’t know me well enough to know my fondness for unique, “transcontinental” souvenirs, but she did very well with this purchase, as I am (perhaps, strangely) attracted to this egg. I just love souvenirs, especially intercultural treasures!

Why? A souvenir is an object a person acquires for the memories the owner associates with it. The object itself has no real significance other than the psychological connection the possessor has with the object as a symbol of past experience. I have shelves of dolls, elephants, paintings, shells, boxes, statues, magnets, key chains, money, etc. - souvenirs and gifts from Cambodia, Mexico, Honduras, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Mozambique, South Africa, Puerto Rico, Canada, the Philippines, the Czech Republic, Thailand, India, and Haiti (all of which I have been to, except the last 5). To me, they represent people and stories, memories of the best times of my life.

As I said, my pysanka is hand-painted; the detail is intricate and its pattern would require careful attention to fashion. I wonder about my pysanka .
Who painted the egg?

Was it grandfather whose family has been in the pysanka business for generations and generations?

Was a single mother who learned a trade to support her three children at home?

Where was it made?

In a large, dirty factory that pays its workers less than the profits of the egg?

In the crafters home, on the same table their meals are presented?

Where was it sold?

In a small, quaint shop?

By a vendor at the market?

On a glass shelf, in the mall, where only tourists shop?

What did it cost?

What could this egg tell me about the Ukraine? About the person who painted it?

Now the egg sits on my desk; for now, it's the egg's new home.  What stories could this egg tell from its new resting place?

Will the egg hear gossip or encouragement?
Will the egg see my smiling as co-workers and strangers walk past my desk; or will the egg see me frowning when *certain numbers* appear on my caller ID?
Will the egg hear me grumbling and complaining, or being grateful?
Will the egg see me spending my time wisely?

Love love love, 
Jewel

My Best Friend

Romdenh Chamnol: He's my husband and my best friend



We had such a wonderful time celebrating our first Valentines Day together.  I came home from work [30 minutes early... yay!] and found 10 big helium balloons in our bed, a big homemade "I love you" sign (I love that he does homemade!) and a sweet card hanging from one of the balloons.  I had no idea what to expect from him, and I was beautifully surprised.  I made him a "52 Things I Love About You" book made out of a deck of playing cards and a a magnetic Scrabble board to hang in the kitchen (for sweet love notes.)  Then we dressed up and went to Hong Kong Chinese Restaraunt.. had Starbucks.. and watched Biggest Loser with my mom. :)

At dinner, Titus asked me what other "firsts" we still have to experience together.  Experiencing so many things together for the first time has been fun and interesting. 

- our first road trip (to New York to meet Jessie)
- our first trip to the grocery store
- our first date!
- the first time Titus saw "the changing of leaves" (he thought the colorful leaves were flowers!)
- the first time Titus held the trashcan while I threw up (haha!)
- Titus' first extended family gather
- the first time Titus saw his breath
- Titus' first Thanksgiving and his first Christmas in America
- Titus' first taco
- moving into our first apartment
- our first walk
- etc. etc. etc.

And there are still so many more things to experience!  I am anxious for the "bigger things" but trying to recognize and appreciate all the little things that are happening daily.

- his first Independance Day
- our first Family Camp and Married Couples Retreat together
- celebrating our birthdays together!
- our first vacation
- our first summer
- our first BABY!
- etc. etc. etc.

Life is interesting.  Life is not always fun, but I love it!

Love love love,
Mrs. Romdenh Chamnol

Marriage, Missional Living, and Mountains

Friends, Family, and Supporters,

     Much has happened since that last time I officially wrote to you all. Some of you have been a part of our life’s most recent happenings, others of you may be wondering where in the world we are and what we are doing. We have decided to pursue American citizenship. This will allow Titus to freely leave and enter the United States without hassle; it removes the threat of being denied a visa to enter the United States; it waves all further increasing visa/paperwork fees; etc. Obtaining citizenship is a long (~3-5 years!) and expensive process, and the decision has been very difficult to make; however, God has been speaking to our hearts, reminding us (I especially need this reminder!) that "…my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Yes, there are still days when I yearn for 'peace which passeth all understanding (Philippians 4:7,) but I rest in Him and listen to my husband’s confident/encouraging word. I do not know what the next 3-5 years will look like. I just know that right now we are waiting, preparing, training, and seeking.

     Through prayer and fundraising efforts, we continue to be distant partners in the ministry in Cambodia that Titus started before he came to America in October. We wish that we could do more; we wish that we could be there now. Romans 10:14 says, "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" We are happy to announce that the University Students Fellowship has received funding to rent a house and open a girls’ dorm. More than four students have gotten saved and are being discipled, and the leaders are currently preparing for a Valentine’s outreach this Sunday, at which they will talk about God’s love. Our prayer is that God will continue to bless the ministry that our friends are carrying on in Cambodia, and that He will continue to teach and strengthen us to do His work, wherever we are.
     February is ‘Missions Month’ at our church and we have already enjoyed hearing two powerful missionary testimonies. In a January preview to Missions Month, Pastor Bob preached a sermon entitled ‘Missional Living’ - a lifestyle of adopting the posture, thinking, behaviors, and practices of a missionary in order to engage others with the Gospel message. I had been thinking about this very idea for weeks prior to Pastor Bob’s sermon, and I have felt much conviction. I have a heart for the world – for international missions – but I am embarrassed to admit that I’m a little uncomfortable trying to find my place being a missionary at home. I ask you to join us in prayer that God will direct us, opening our eyes to opportunities to share His love and to evangelize, and especially strengthening us to be obedient. We are grateful for His conviction… and His patience. :)
“No one can say: ‘Since I’m not called to be a missionary, I do not have to evangelize my friends and neighbors.’ There is no difference, in spiritual terms, between a missionary witnessing in his home town and a missionary witnessing in Katmandu, Nepal. We are all called to go—even if it is only to the next room, or the next block.”(On Being a Missionary by Thomas Hale
     Other highlights from life together in America thus far:

On October 29th, Titus and I stood in front of God and almost 300 witnesses to commit our lives to each other and our marriage to Him. We were blessed to have a wonderful wedding party of family and friends who traveled from New York, Maryland, Kentucky, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Texas to support us. To those of you who were able to come, thank you again so much for celebrating with us. It was a beautiful day – one that I have recollected many, many times – that was enhanced by the presence of friends and family who love us and have invested in our lives. Although no members from Titus’ family were able to attend, we were blessed by the presence of Cambodian friends, ministry partners, former and present missionaries to Cambodia, and others who represent a love for/knowledge of Cambodia.
     Since Titus arrived in America four months ago, he has grown to love my family and my family has grown to love him. It is a blessing to me that – although the adjustment to food, weather, church, language, streets, customs, etc. have been very, very challenging and uncomfortable – He has genuinely found himself “at home” with my family. Many and sincere THANKS are due to our family and friends who have reached out to him and tried to welcome him to America and into their lives. Thank you also to those who have given furniture, kitchenware, and other household items to help make our little block apartment our home.
     After five months of working 50+ hours/week at three jobs (Cracker Barrel, Lakeview Christian Pre-School, and “janitoring” at Brookhaven,) the Lord has blessed me with a full-time position in the School of Business and Leadership at Indiana Wesleyan University – a job with health insurance, a more-than-sufficient salary, paid vacation days, free tuition, and more. Titus and I both plan on taking advantage of the blessing of FREE TUITION, and while Titus is still praying about which direction to take, I am already looking forward to starting Biblical Literature classes this summer.


     In conclusion, I want to ask for your prayers for two requests that have been on my heart. First: Last week, our friend Soklai– a faithful member of one of the Wesleyan churches in Cambodia’s capital city – died suddenly and unexpectedly. When he died, Soklai was sitting in a chair, playing with his young daughter. Second: My sister and her Filipino fiancé have begun the process of applying for a fiancé visa to America. Titus and I saw God move big mountains during our application period, and I pray that Jessie and Aldean’s testimony will be the same: that their faith will increase.
     As always, thank you. Thank you for reading, for supporting, for praying, for loving, and for giving. We pray that this message finds you happy, healthy, and strong in the Lord.

Serving Him,
Titus & Jewel

Whoa 2011

What can I say about the new year that hasn't already been said?  December 31st ended a milestone year.  I graduated from college in 2011.  I planned my wedding and got married in 2011. I went on my honeymoon in 2011. I started my first (second and third) post-grad job in 2011.  I moved out of my parents house in 2011 and started paying things like rent, groceries, gas and electricity for the first time.  Also in 2011, my twin sister (who I have never been separated from for more than a few weeks only 2-3 times) moved to New York for a year. In 2011, my precious grandmom got very very sick, moved into a nursing home, and eventually got better, stronger, and moved home. In 2011, my Prince Charming (and how my husband) moved himself to literally the opposite side of the planet to be with me - to a new world, and into a new culture.  2011 was big.  God was so good to me  - so, so, so good - in 2011.  I look back at this year with a grateful heart and an anxiousness about what God is going to do (and what He has already done in only 3 days) in 2012.  Look forward to the next post...

Love love love,
Mrs. Titus Romdenh

Change

Change is the title of this chapter of my life. Since April 30, I have had to learn what it's like to NOT being a student after being a student for 16 years. Soon-after, I transitioned into the workforce full-time.  Since first entering the post-graduation work-force, I have held four different jobs.  Almost two months ago, I became a wife.  A few weeks after becoming a wife, Titus and I moved from my parents house to our own apartment on the other side of town.  Finally, we just recently began attending a new small group on Wednesday nights.  All of these have been GOOD changes... "for-the-better" changes... but none have been easy.

I'm looking at another change; a change that is going to change a lot of things; a for-the-better, but hard change.

On December 27th, 2011, I was hired by Indiana Wesleyan University as Schedule Specialist in Graduate Organizational Leadership.  It means [much] higher pay, 13 days paid-vacation, health insurance, a wellness program that pays me to walk, and numerous other benefits, including... free tuition for my hubby!!!  Praise the Lord!  We (and others) have been praying for this!  While I admit that I would rather be with those one, two, and three-year-olds that have stolen my heart, my attitude is changing [and it's taken lots of prayer and humility] because I really do trust that this opportunity is God's Best and God's Will for us right now.

I feel nervous... excited... humbled... and honored to be chosen for this position!

Love love love,
Jewel

5 years blogging!

Between a wedding and honeymoon, working 3 jobs, being a new wife, and moving into our new apartment, I have had LITTLE-TO-NO time to blog in the past few weeks and I am so disappointed about that.  I have been blogging regularly for just over FIVE years now and to think about all that I have written about on here.. all that has happened in these FIVE years... WOW!  To be honest: I blog for myself, but it definitely makes me feel proud and loved to know that others enjoy reading my blog (even if it's only occasionally!)

So much has happened in only the last week of my life.  God has been so real and faithful to me this week, reminding me that He is Sovereign (Isaiah 45:9) that He has complete authority - and I trust that He will continue to provide and to guide.

Last Sunday morning, I found my gas tank empty. I was so frustrated having to stop and get gas on the way home from church, and angry at myself for accidentally filling the tank (I got distracted *flirting with my husband.*)  On Monday afternoon, gas went up 22 cents!  I laughed at myself for being so frustrated and I thanked God for the blessing of an opportunity to fill my tank before the price jumped.

Last Friday, my favorite Uncle Tom passed away suddenly.  A few days later I was working at Cracker Barrel -- having an almost-miserable time encountering difficulties that slowed down my ability to finish my side-work before I could clock out and go home -- and a co-worker told me that my Aunt Regina (Uncle Tom's wife) and Aunt Janie were there and asking for me.  I was then grateful that I was STILL at work and able to spend some precious moments with them before the craziness of the viewing and funeral.

My twin sis Jessie also received a blessing in her own frustrations.  On Friday, she was trying to buy airline tickets and kept getting error messages that her credit card was being denied.  On Saturday, she was able to buy her tickets for $200 cheaper than Friday's price!

Today I am thankful for reminders of God's faithfulness and sovereignty, and I hope that I am blessed by reading this blog in five more years!

Love love love,
Jewel

Pre- Fiancé Coming to America

I can't remember when I wrote my last blog entry, but I know that it has been a long time.  So much has happened and I wish that I would have had time to write about it.

Some of the very best friends a girl could have threw me a bridal shower at my church last Sunday and it was so special.  I was so touched as each woman and girl around the circle shared how they know me - many for more than 16, 17, or 18 years!  I have gone on trips with many of them, shared a bed with some, worked in the nursery or the kitchen with others... special memories.  Life has changed a lot (I think 'change' is one of the first words that I would attribute to life both present and near future) and I hope and pray that I will be able to keep some of those memories forever.

Other significant events in recent days could include finding our first apartment (after our plans to live in a friend's basement changed,) continuing to work 50-55 hours a week between 3 jobs, Grandmom finally moving home again after three months in the hospital and nursing home, etc.

Titus is on a plane RIGHT NOW somewhere between Seoul, South Korea and Atlanta, Georgia.  We were able to talk a little bit last night during his 12-hour layover in Seoul (thanks to free computers with free wifi!)  He seemed to be doing okay except for the language barrier. He couldn't believe a sandwich and coffee cost him $10. (At some restaurants in Cambodia, 3 or 4 people can eat for $10!)  After a 13.5-hour flight, Titus will land in Atlanta, Georgia.  I sent him a few dollars in quarters, so hopefully he will find a payphone and call me after he goes through customs.

I am so excited for all the special people in my life to finally get to meet him - parents, siblings, grandmom, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends who are like family, pastors... While I know that going to church tomorrow will be very OVERWHELMING for him, I hope that it will be a special memory for him too.

I'm off now to clean the church, to shower, and to spend my last few hours at home before Titus arrives! I have dreamed of this for months and it's all finally happening... the next chapter of My Fairy Tale Love Life starts in less than EIGHT hours!

Love love love,
Jewel

Piles of Noteworthy Mentions (I would call it a 'list', but it isn't even organized enough to be called one.)

Oh. My. Word. As evidenced by my lack of posts, life has been CRAZY.  I have been working three jobs - about 50-55 hours a week - planning a wedding, and fighting a cold for almost three weeks.  I am sick and tired of being sick and tired!  Wow.

[I wrote that much and a week later finally returned to finish this post. WOW! haha]

Geneva Church of the Nazarene invited me to speak tonight and share about Cambodia.  I fought a terrible terrible migraine all morning and afternoon, and then had to do one of my least favorite things ever (drive at night.. in the rain.. by myself.. for an hour.)  I was not only feeling totally unprepared, but discouraged.  I sent a quick "pray for me!!!" text to a handful of friends and let me tell you: A church of 12 people collected an offering of $160.  I was completely blown away.  That is a testimony to the "God can do immeasurably more than all we can ask or imagine" promise in Ephesians 3:20.  I was sharing this with a friend and she said that this verse has really been HOLDING TRUE in my life recently, and she's totally right.  The last few weeks and maybe even months have not been *easy,* but God has proven Faithful repeatedly and immensely and I really do feel so so so blessed to know, love, and serve Him.

Cracker Barrel has been ROUGH for reasons that I won't discuss on here, but I will say that it is definitely my mission field right now and I believe that God has placed me there for that reason.  I am growing and learning and certainly being challenged -- all a part of preparation for Cambodia.

Although it is draining, I am still *enjoying* my lovely beastly lovely two-year-olds at the pre-school.  Friday was picture day and that was a surprise for me.  [I'm told that there were apparently signs on all the doors, but my head and my mind haven't been in the same place for weeks.]

Titus, MY SWEET HUSBAND-TO-BE, passed his interview at the US Embassy in Cambodia on Tuesday.  PRAISE THE LORD, MY MAN IS COMING TO AMERICA!

"I WILL EXALT YOU, MY GOD THE KING;

I WILL PRAISE YOUR NAME FOR EVER AND EVER." (Psalm 145:1) 

However, there is a little bit of a catch.  He was missing a document and has to return to the embassy on Wednesday to submit it.  I had already purchased his tickets for Tuesday, so I had to cancel his flight and I am not sure yet when he will be coming.  After processing this document, it could still take 4-7 days to process his visa.  Please keep praying that this document will be approved.

‎"I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?"

(Jeremiah 32:27) 

Love love love, Jewel

My Decision to Trust

I have been worried for some time about how Titus and I are not only going to raise enough support to live in Cambodia, but how we are even going to earn enough to live on our own in the States.

After five weeks of searching and submitting thirty-five (35!) applications, I finally found a job that pays only minimum wage, but offers 40 hours a week. For the most part, I have been content where I am.

That is... until I got a call two weeks ago regarding my application to be a waitress at Bob Evans. What a perfect opportunity! I had no intentions of quitting work at the cemetery, but working an evening and weekend shift at Bob Evans and adding $$$ to our savings. I had two great interviews, and I was asked to schedule a third interview. After the second interview, I was confident that I would get the job; I even memorized the menu!

Then on the morning of interview #3, I woke up feeling incredibly stressed and overwhelmed. Something wasn't right. I opened my Bible to have my devotions and my reading of the day from Proverbs was Proverbs 3:5,6.


Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.

The job I have now at the cemetery is only temporary, and I have been so worried/stressed/anxious about finding another job when this job ends in September. On the morning of interview #3, I realized that I don’t trust God to provide another job [even though He was faithful to provide this job, just when I needed it!]

So I prayed and [somehow] worked up the guts to call and cancel my third interview.

Maybe God provided this restaurant job opportunity now to test me – to see if I still have faith in His provision; to see if I will still be faithful to be involved in the ministry now, or if I am too concerned about the future.

I have been selfish to think that NOW is only a time to prepare for a future of ministry and being used. God is requiring so much more of me NOW. I have been too blind to see that, because I have been looking at me and my own needs. While my intentions have been good – to prepare myself for a strong future ministry – the result has been what I believe is not the direction that God wants me to be walking in.

I believe He will provide (both now and later,) but I can’t honestly say that my belief has completely transformed the way that I am thinking and making decisions. If I trust that God will provide a job later, why am I worrying about finding one now? So I still have some fear and hesitations.

I am not going to get a second job; instead, I am going to look for places where I can be used by God.   Please pray that my belief in God’s provision will help me to make better decisions and worry less.

Love love love, Jewel

Wants and Haves

Yesterday, I had a painful realization that I have been wanting too much and I have not been giving enough consideration or reflection to what I already have. None of the things that I want are bad, but I am guilty of being ungrateful for what I do have.

Praise the Lord, I woke up with a thankful spirit, and I believe that is due to going to bed with a thankful heart, and praying a prayer of thankfulness. So, since yesterday evening, I have been desperately trying to erase the wants in my mind and engraving a list of haves on my heart. Here are just a few:

- I want more sleep ……………. I have a soft bed, air-conditioning, and warm blankets that allow me to sleep well each night. I also have a dad who gets worried when I don’t wake up with my 1st, 2nd, or even 3rd alarm; the same dad makes me coffee every morning before work. ♥♥♥
- I want a better job ……………. I have a good job that offers me 40 hrs/wk, with people who ask about my life and make me laugh – people I have really enjoyed getting to know. ♥♥♥

- I want more time with Jessie before she moves to New York for one year ……………. I have two more weeks, and I am going to take advantage of every day with her. ♥♥♥

- I want Grandmom to be cancer-free and healthy ……………. I have a God who is Father and Healer, and has faithfully brought Grandmom through much sickness, hospitalization, and therapy in the last two years. ♥♥♥

- I want my fiancé beside me ……………. I have confidence that God will open the way for Titus to come to America in a few weeks. ♥♥♥

- I want a vacation ……………. I have a 3-day-weekend with a list of fun, stress-free activities planned, including: camping with friends, sitting by the fire, time with family from Ohio, a 50%-off sale at Goodwill, reading a book, watching fireworks, grilling out and swimming, and sleeping in. ♥♥♥

As I post this, I am on my way to lunch. I have leftover chicken salad and a bowl of fruit; a blanket for a sunny picnic in the soft, green grass; my Bible, journal, highlighter, and pen. My sister is on her way to Kokomo Beach, where she will relax in the lazy river, and get her tan on. However, tomorrow, she will be at home, writing a paper for grad. school, and I will be receiving a big paycheck (and saving it for a luxurious honeymoon. ♥♥♥)

Love love love, Jewel

TODAY's Blessings

Yesterday afternoon I found myself overwhelmed by "His new blessings every morning." It was such a good day! I went to bed feeling blessed, loved, grateful, etc. I am reminded of xonghan song that I learned in Mozambique last summer. The lyrics are translated,
Even if my mother leaves me, Jesus is still treating me well.
Even if my health leaves me, Jesus is still treating me well.
Even if my goats leave me, Jesus is still treating me well.
Etc. Etc. Etc.And I think of my own life. Grandmom may have cancer, but my Sovereign God is Father and Healer.  Finances may not always be sufficient, but God always provides. My fiance may be on the other side of this big planet, but by God's grace, we will soon be reunited. Etc. Etc. Etc. ♥♥♥

♥ Jessie is home! Yesterday afternoon my twin sister flew into Indianapolis after seven long weeks in the Philippines [long for me, short for her.] It was so so so good to see her. I could have hugged her all afternoon in the food court at the airport, but I think she had enough was anxious to see if her luggage had followed her. HA! I am definitely looking forward to the next three weeks with her before she moves to New York for one year, and everything changes. ♥

♥ Yesterday morning in Central Indiana, the clouds were dark and heavy, and rain poured upon the land. Often times we refer to the "storms of life" has difficult, dark, and depressing circumstances [and I can understand the metaphor,] but I love storms [the "weather kind!"] We have certainly had a fair number of storms this season, and I am so glad to have a picture perfect storm-watching window in my office. Storms make me feel little. They give me energy. They remind me of God's power. Thank you Jesus for your protecting hand on Mom and Grandmom as they traveled through heavy rain and flooded streets.  ♥

♥ I received two very special pieces of mail yesterday: A note from the National Visa Center regarding the stateside approval of Titus' fiance visa petition, and a letter from my bff and penpal, Loren. The note from the visa center informed us that our information has been forwarded to the US Embassy in Phnom Penh Cambodia, and Titus will be contacted within a week with instructions to schedule his interview. Loren wrote to me about her new job in Houston, and although Texas is much much farther than Cincinnati, I am super excited for her. Loren and I graduated together, went to Cambodia together, walked to Wal-Mart in a blizzard together, etc. etc. etc. and I know she will be awesome as a live-in foster mom for babies and young children down in Texas. ♥

♥ I have begun the search for an apartment, which is really exciting!! I looked at two last Saturday; both were itty bitty [affordable] one room apartments, each with a list of pros and cons. I have one super ideal prospect, and I am praying that the current tenant finds a job elsewhere, making the cottage available. I am grateful for friends who have given leads on spaces for rent, and offered old knives, tvs, etc., and even bedrooms! ♥

♥ My job in the cemetery might usually be boring, always too quiet, and pay only minimum wage, but as I get to know my co-workers, I like it more and more. I attended my first staff meeting this morning with all the area NSW staff. There were presentations on finances, conduct, performance, vacations, etc... weird "grown-up job" sorts of things. We were even taught how to use a fire extinguisher. My position is only temporary, but my intentions are to "wow" them into keeping me until I have to voluntarily leave for Discipleship Training School and eventually Cambodia! ♥

Ok, that's all for now! I encourage you to sit and think of all the ways God is blessing you today. It truly is a life-changing [perspective-changing at least!] habit.

Love Love Love,
Jewel

Friday's Fave Five: Today has been weird

Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five!

1. Payday - Yesterday was my first payday at my new job.  That was a good feeling!!  When my supervisor, Jeannie, gave me the check, she said, "Save this for your honeymoon."  I think I will. ♥ ♥ ♥

2. The guy in the basement who is fixing our water - As I write this, I am in quite a predicament. I stayed up late to talk to my sweet fiance, and I woke up early for a new extensive morning routine before work. It's also day five of a long work week. I am tired. I need coffee. I just discovered that our plumbing - taking no one else into consideration but its tired self - decided to quit working... today of all days.  I have been known to hold it for three days (in Mexico, I was convinced our outhouse was producing tarantulas by the dozen;) however, coffee runs through my system quicker than a nose in Spring.  I'm finishing my second cup, so let's hope the plumber in the basement finishes in the next five or I'll be visiting the neighbor's barn. ♥ ♥ ♥

3. Scripture - I will admit that I am still selfish and sometimes have a negative attitude, but I believe that it is by the daily reading of Scripture that Christ is conforming me into His image.  Earlier this summer, I made the committment to read through the Bible (starting at the beginning of both the Old and New Testament.) I admit that I have made this commitment before [numerous times] and quit before I ever a significant amount. I am muy glad to say that I am farther in my commitment than I have ever been!! I do not say that with pride in myself, but to testify that God has revealed Himself to me in awesome awesome ways and He is doing a new work in me! ♥ ♥ ♥

4. Lunch Breaks - I love my lunch breaks. I love packing my lunch, having a picnic at the park, and reading on the swings after I have eaten. Sometimes just getting away from the office for an hour feels like a vacation! Yesterday, a co-worker invited me to lunch and she paid! What a treat. We had a lovely time getting to know each other. ♥ ♥ ♥

5. Rummages - In preparing for Titus' arrival to America, I have begun collecting goodies for our apartment. We won't be living in America long and we want to live simply, but we have a few needs and I am hoping that I can collect a few things at a good price this weekend. Anyone want to join me? ♥ ♥ ♥

Love love love, Jewel

A Dying Business

Arlington National Cemetery - Credit: National Geographic

I thought I worked at Grant Memorial Park, but apparently I work at Grant Memorial Lake; it's been raining and raining and raining all day. I was hoping for stronger storms because I have the perfect storm-watching window in my office. The clouds were very eerie earlier today, but it has only produced wind, rain, and a few quiet thunder claps.

Working in a cemetery seems to be a dying business. It's only 11:00 on Wednesday and I have already finished my Wednesday and Thursday responsibilities.  So... now what? I brought my ipod today, but it's so so so close to dying.

This morning, I read the obituary of a woman who lived to be 104-years-old. Her first husband died only five years after marriage; more than twenty years later, her second husband died after only six years of marriage. Yet somehow this woman managed to have five children, 45 grandchildren, 84 great-grandchildren, and twelve great-great-grandchildren. I imagine she has some unbelievable stories! She was also one of eleven children. I wonder how many nieces and nephews she has!

I splurged and packed a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in my lunch today.  I haven't had much time for exercise, but I have been pretty faithful to my strict diet [except for Sunday; we won't talk about what I had at the church picnic.]

Sorry I don't have anything more exciting to share -- such is life in a cemetery -- though every day is one day closer to seeing my fiance!

Love Love Love,
Jewel

"Life is full of beauty..."

I had such an awesome weekend!  Friday was the most beautiful day that I have seen since 2011 started in Indiana.  After cleaning my Grandmom's house Friday morning and having a platter of veggies for lunch, I went outside with my sunglasses, a bottle of lemonade, and a good book.  I sat there for two hours and it was the most beautiful thing.  I heard the birds singing. I saw the biggest furriest black and yellow bumblebee EVER.  I felt the wind blow across my face.  I watched the clouds swim through the bluest-blue sky and I watched the grass dance in the breeze.  I walked to the postoffice with mi mama, and along the way, I smelled blooming flowers, freshly-cut grass, burning trash, and burgers cooking in a grill. I was reminded:

“Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams.” ~Ashley Smith 

Saturday morning, I joined some teens and sponsors from our youth group and we rode our bikes along the Cardinal Greenway.  From Gas City Park down the Sweetser Switch Trail and back, I rode 26 miles.  The Greenway was beautiful!  The sun was shining, there was a cool breeze, and the wildflowers were in full bloom.  When I wasn't singing silly songs with the 7th and 8th graders, I was praising the Lord in my heart - praising Him for a beautiful day and a life of many blessings.  I must admit: I seriously cannot believe I made it back. [In the picture above, I am in the bright yellow T on the far left. Thank you Rebecky for letting me borrow such an awesome purple bike - I loved the basket and the "#1 MOM" lisence plate!]

After a quick shower and a short-lived moment of exhaustion, I got in the car with mi mama and drove an hour to attend the wedding of my dear friend Jenny Campbell and her prince, Juan Ernesto.  The wedding was outside, and with every turn, seeing the darkening of the clouds, I prayed, "Lord, withhold the rain!" (Amos 4:7). It was my first outside wedding, and my first wedding in the rain. Despite the rain, it was a beautiful ceremony.  Jenny looked so so so happy, and I was happy for her.

In 159 days, I'll be walking down the aisle in my ivory dress, and I'll be so so so happy.  Rain or sunshine, it will be a beautiful day. ♥♥♥

Love love love, Jewel

Tired Feet and a Blessed Heart

Last Saturday, I spent my day volunteering with Stamp Out Hunger - an annual food drive in our city sponsored by the National Assocation of Letter Carriers.  For an hour, I followed a mailtruck and picked up donations of food that people had left by their mailboxes.  However the real fun was from 10:00 to 5:00, when I was at St. Martin's Community Center organizing the donated food into boxes.  A few of the volunteers came from my church, Brookhaven Wesleyan, and others came from two or three other churches in our community. There was also a group of volunteers from the Salvation Army.

A man named Shawn came with the Salvation Army and is temporarily staying in their homeless shelter.  I really enjoyed working beside Shawn and I was blessed by his company and encouragement. He is from Los Angeles and since May of 2010, he has been walking across the country "meeting people, hearing their stories, and serving America."  The more we talked, the more I realized how both intelligent and wise he was.

I hope I never forget Saturday's experience.

Now, after that encouraging post, I must get something off my chest. An angry mother called our office this morning and said she wanted to speak to a "live human being." I wanted to ask her, "And what do you think I am??" Apparently a computer-generated response system. She then asked if there were any real people in. I wanted to say, "No, I am sorry, it's the middle of May and it's lunchtime; we are fresh out of human beings." Instead, I called her 'honey' and transferred her to someone who loves dealing with angry parents. ♥

Bloom Where You are Planted!

I have been thinking a lot about this whole job search thing and I can't stop remembering the phrase,

"Bloom where you are planted."

I am so so so anxious to return to Cambodia and to continue our ministry there, but God has directed otherwise and I trust that He has a marvelous plan for the time that Titus and I will spend learning, laughing, and loving together in the States. As I wrote this note, there is conflict in Cambodia - it's not a physical battle, but certainly a mental, emotional, and spiritual battle - and I am wondering if God is trying to protect me, to protect us (Titus and I).

If I am hired as a server at Cracker Barrel, that is my mission field.  If I am hired by a local day care, that is my mission field.  If I am hired as a Starbucks barista, that is my mission field.  Wherever I go, I pray that by God's grace, I will bloom there.  So I continue looking for job opportunities and I continue applying.  I believe that my God is Sovereign (Isaiah 45:9) - that He has complete authority - and I trust that He is directing my job search.

Love love love, Jewel