The visit of IKE

Well, I haven't written in a while, but I haven't felt like I have had much to write about. Of course after my BFF Ike came to see me and my family this past weekend, things got a little exciting! For those whom I have yet to talk to since Ike came, my family and I are doing well. We lost our fence and quite a few limbs from the pine trees in the front yard and we were without power for almost 48 hours. However, compared to most, we are extremely blessed. Some good friends of mine, and my older brother, are still without power and have a lot trees or debris in their lawn that will take a while for them to get everything squared away. Overall, God has provided for my family and I in huge ways through this storm and show His hand over us. (I will post pictures when I get them off my camera!!)

On a different note, up until Hurricane Ike I actually got to spend an hour to an hour a half every day last week with the Lord. It was amazing. I haven't felt like God has "talked" to me like He did in Swazi and I was starting to get frustrated, wondering why it was different. I started praying asking God to show me that He can still speak and use me in America like He did in Africa, and then He reminded me I was setting time aside to allow Him too. I had read my bible and prayed throughout the day, but it was a "I have a couple minutes between appointments so I'll give it to God" kinda thing, but not a specific time set aside to just BE in His presence. It was when I did that, God started working in my heart and life again. Of course, the problem was, the closer and more intimate I was getting with God, the more the enemy was coming to tear me down. A prayer request is that I pull strength from God to withstand against that temptation, as I have fallen a few times, but God is faithful and I lean on Him for strength and peace. I desire to be fully satisfied in Him that the world and the lusts of the flesh hold no power over me.

On the job front, I have been nannying for a family in the Woodlands, but lately I have worked less and less, which is not a good thing when I have bills to pay. Well, by God alone, I got a call 2 weeks ago from Carol Ham, the pastor of prayer at WE, asking if I would be interested in part time admin work with her. I said I would so we set up an interview for this past Monday. Because of Ike, we rescheduled that to tomorrow, so if you read this, please pray God's will in it. I would love this job! It is steady, weekly work, doing what God has gifted me with (admin stuff), working in the church that I love. I was telling daddy today that I find it such a God thing that since I've come home from Swazi, I haven't had to LOOK for work, but that GOD is providing it for me and people are coming to me. With my lack of self-control financially, God is still faithful to provide for me when I trust Him. Thank you Jesus!! Now, I would still be nannying a 2 days a week with Linda, but the other 3 days I would be working at the church. The great part is, both places would work around what my family/mom would need me home for. God is truly providing for me and I give Him ALL glory!!! I haven't done anything!

On another exciting front, we finalize the adoption of Kiana (my beautiful 3 yo sister) on September 25th!! It's been 3 1/2 years, and we are SO excited to finally have it done! I will post pictures the day of!!! Underneath is a photo of my beautiful girl!

Kiana showing the camera her muscles!!

Well, as of now, I don't think I have anything else to report. Hopefully I will write more soon!! If not, I'll write the day of the adoption, at the very least! :) I love you all!!!