Saturday, November 7, 2009
Sick Week
Phil was lucky enough to be at a conference the week that we hosted the Henry's first South Jersey infirmary. Every single Henry child except for Lydia took a turn on the family room couches. Fevers, runny noses, coughs, chills, head aches, etc. The kitchen counter turned into the nurse's station and was well stocked with Sudafed, Tylenol, Advil, hand sanitizer, and the thermometer. I couldn't measure it out fast enough to keep fevers under control and coughs quiet. Why don't the medicine companies make the liquid medicine come in gallon pump bottles? How many times did I have to run to the store for more ammunition against whatever it was we had?
Monday, October 26, 2009
The Phillies have new fans
In case you haven't heard, the Phillies are in the World Series. We are now official fans, because one of the neighbors gave us a yard sign. The same lady gave Noah a Phillies shirt for his birthday. We will need to get shirts for everyone else to be true fans, but that will come in time! I can't believe the excitement and hoop-la over this whole event! You don't mess with some people when the Phillies are on TV.... don't call, don't text them, don't knock on their door!
A look at the new 'hood
We joke that the crisis in the real estate market has let the "riff-raff" into the Snowy Owl Woods subdivision! The Henrys, with all six kids, their huge van, numerous bicycles, AZ yard maintenance skills, and frequent visitors, have moved into the 'hood! Watch out!
Some people marry "above" themselves. We just moved in "above" ourselves! It is a great neighborbood. There are lots of families with kids our ages, several families with grown kids- more than a few are Italian Catholics. We are situated right at the center of our target area, right near a major highway giving us easy access to other parts of the county and Philadelphia.
We have been blessed to move into a much sought after school district as well. The kids are all in good school situations. We are very grateful for that! I especially am very thankful for buses that come and pick the kids up and bring them home. No more 45 minute morning route stopping at 3 different schools.
The house is well suited for entertaining with a big back deck, an open layout, and a finished basement. And with a new kitchen table that seats all 12 people with the leaves in, plus our existing dining room table, we can now seat 22 people comfortably! So far, we have had a waffle brunch, a pizza party, numerous late night fire pit conversations, neighbor kids over for dinner, and a few others that I can't remember.
This weekend, we look forward to hosting an open house celebrating our new home. It should be fun!
Some people marry "above" themselves. We just moved in "above" ourselves! It is a great neighborbood. There are lots of families with kids our ages, several families with grown kids- more than a few are Italian Catholics. We are situated right at the center of our target area, right near a major highway giving us easy access to other parts of the county and Philadelphia.
We have been blessed to move into a much sought after school district as well. The kids are all in good school situations. We are very grateful for that! I especially am very thankful for buses that come and pick the kids up and bring them home. No more 45 minute morning route stopping at 3 different schools.
The house is well suited for entertaining with a big back deck, an open layout, and a finished basement. And with a new kitchen table that seats all 12 people with the leaves in, plus our existing dining room table, we can now seat 22 people comfortably! So far, we have had a waffle brunch, a pizza party, numerous late night fire pit conversations, neighbor kids over for dinner, and a few others that I can't remember.
This weekend, we look forward to hosting an open house celebrating our new home. It should be fun!
Monday, September 21, 2009
A Few New Jersey Differences
We are finally here. By "here" I mean, "here in our new home, and mostly unpacked, kids in school, and just realizing that we really did make it!"
Our summer has been full to overflowing; its hard to know where to start telling that story.
One thing that stood out as we look on our transition to New Jersey is how different life and culture here in South Jersey is from what we knew and experienced back in Arizona.
Its not too much an exaggeration to say that while the two states claim to be in the same nation, there are some very distinct differences that can not be missed.
Here is a quick list of some things that come to mind that make NJ different from Tucson:
Our summer has been full to overflowing; its hard to know where to start telling that story.
One thing that stood out as we look on our transition to New Jersey is how different life and culture here in South Jersey is from what we knew and experienced back in Arizona.
Its not too much an exaggeration to say that while the two states claim to be in the same nation, there are some very distinct differences that can not be missed.
Here is a quick list of some things that come to mind that make NJ different from Tucson:
- If you hesitate more than a split second at a stop light in NJ, be ready to be honked at by the guy behind you. Hesitate a whole second and watch for the one finger salute.
- It is already cold in September, but the Jersey folks don't seem to realize it.
- We've discovered something called Humidity. It's very interesting. For example, dishes have to be dried with a towel in NJ. They don't just air dry. This has caused much frustration amongst the children. Likewise, bathing suits that have been used in the morning, are not ready to be put back on in the afternoon.
- Not a single road in NJ is straight. Not a one. Each one has at least five different names, with a new name being given to the road if you travel on it more than a mile. (Even our GPS gets confused. She endlessly says, "Recalculating...
Recalculating..." At least she doesn't cry like some of us do!) - No one from NJ likes living in NJ, but they stay, because if they move out of the state, they have to pay an extra tax.
- 65 degrees with 80% humidity is way hotter than one would think especially when doing any sort of physical activity.
- In NJ, black 5+ ft snakes like to live in basements.
- In NJ, one goes to the shore, not the beach. Once you are at the shore, it is acceptable to say that you are "going to the beach."
- There are more people named Vinny or Gino than Juan or Carlos.
- One hasn't had true pizza until one has experienced it made by someone named Vinny or Gino and is from South Jersey.
- There is no North Arizona and South Arizona. Here, one must not confuse North Jersey and South Jersey.
- Most people from AZ didn't even realize the state had a football team until last year. In South Jersey, people don't realize there are other teams besides theirs. The Eagles is a way of life, it runs in the blood. Root for any other team, and you might get that one finger salute again.
- People in NJ are very aware of history. In AZ, most people are trying to forget history and are more focused on finding the best golf course, hiking trail, or a good reason to take a trip to California.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Thoughts along the Way
We had many exciting adventures and fun experiences along the way from Tucson to Jersey. Despite many late nights, long days of driving, leaving friends before the kids felt done playing, and occasionally grumpy parents, they did great!
Much to their dismay, they didn't have a DVD player in the back to watch movies, but I don't know how they could have enjoyed a movie considering the numerous stops we had to make for potty breaks, to switch drivers, for lunch or gas, or even to throw up! Ohhh the stories we have to tell!
(Our most exciting stop was when we were hardly one hour into the trip when we saw a bag flying out of the back of our trailer onto Interstate 10 on our way to Phoenix.)
All along the way, Papa and Mama embarrassed our older children by wearing our huge wrap around sunglasses—a gift from our dear neighbor friend, Sandy.
(A picture of Phil in these near-goggle-like shades is available for a small fee. For a picture of Polly, a much higher fee is required!)
Behind the fun, however, were serious questions: "What have we gotten ourselves into?" At one point about three-fourths of the way to our destination, exhausted, we contemplated just stopping our travels right there.
"I don't think I can go any further!" I said.
In my late night delirium, the realization of being "homeless," looking for a house, preparing the kids for school, et cetera, made it seem like the end of our travels would only mean the beginning of our travails!
Potty breaks and throw up seemed a piece of cake compared to the work ahead!
Much to their dismay, they didn't have a DVD player in the back to watch movies, but I don't know how they could have enjoyed a movie considering the numerous stops we had to make for potty breaks, to switch drivers, for lunch or gas, or even to throw up! Ohhh the stories we have to tell!
(Our most exciting stop was when we were hardly one hour into the trip when we saw a bag flying out of the back of our trailer onto Interstate 10 on our way to Phoenix.)
All along the way, Papa and Mama embarrassed our older children by wearing our huge wrap around sunglasses—a gift from our dear neighbor friend, Sandy.
(A picture of Phil in these near-goggle-like shades is available for a small fee. For a picture of Polly, a much higher fee is required!)
Behind the fun, however, were serious questions: "What have we gotten ourselves into?" At one point about three-fourths of the way to our destination, exhausted, we contemplated just stopping our travels right there.
"I don't think I can go any further!" I said.
In my late night delirium, the realization of being "homeless," looking for a house, preparing the kids for school, et cetera, made it seem like the end of our travels would only mean the beginning of our travails!
Potty breaks and throw up seemed a piece of cake compared to the work ahead!
Jumping in by Faith
Ever attempt jump into a cold pool? Ever stare at a bite of the mystery casserole at a potluck? Ever put a pen to a blank piece of paper?
In all of these situations, people have apprehension of the unknown...what will happen? Will it be worth it? Will it be good?
That is how we felt as we drove away from our home in Tucson for the last time. About a dozen friends from our neighborhood dragged themselves out of bed early in the morning to see us off.
Still dressed in their pj's, they joined us in our now empty house and treated us to juice and donuts, sang and prayed with us, and shed tears as we embarked upon our new adventure. Noah, our seven-year old, said while driving out of the neighborhood: "Mama, is this a drill or is this for real?"
The travels across the country were filled with more blessing than we can name. Friends and family sent us on with numerous encouraging words and prayers. Each stop had its own surprises. Some even said they envied our courage and said they wished they were going, too! Now that's not something I thought I would hear!
One dear young lady, a twelve-year old, even sent us a ten dollar bill; she said, “This is to help with your work.”
This might just be our favorite gift of all the support we have raised.
Sharing the plan for the new church in Gloucester County as we traveled, hearing the excitement the vision generated among our friends, and talking about our new chapter of ministry with the children all served to pump us up even more.
Could we have planned such faith-building trek? We believe God has great things in store for our family and this new ministry.
In all of these situations, people have apprehension of the unknown...what will happen? Will it be worth it? Will it be good?
That is how we felt as we drove away from our home in Tucson for the last time. About a dozen friends from our neighborhood dragged themselves out of bed early in the morning to see us off.
Still dressed in their pj's, they joined us in our now empty house and treated us to juice and donuts, sang and prayed with us, and shed tears as we embarked upon our new adventure. Noah, our seven-year old, said while driving out of the neighborhood: "Mama, is this a drill or is this for real?"
The travels across the country were filled with more blessing than we can name. Friends and family sent us on with numerous encouraging words and prayers. Each stop had its own surprises. Some even said they envied our courage and said they wished they were going, too! Now that's not something I thought I would hear!
One dear young lady, a twelve-year old, even sent us a ten dollar bill; she said, “This is to help with your work.”
This might just be our favorite gift of all the support we have raised.
Sharing the plan for the new church in Gloucester County as we traveled, hearing the excitement the vision generated among our friends, and talking about our new chapter of ministry with the children all served to pump us up even more.
Could we have planned such faith-building trek? We believe God has great things in store for our family and this new ministry.
Monday, June 8, 2009
A Weekend to Remember
This past weekend was filled with good-byes and lasts. It was incredible and very precious to us. We will remember the events of the past few days for a long time to come.
We visited some great Tucson hot-spots, hosted an all-day open house at the house, enjoyed a poolside pizza dinner with Polly's family and Phil's mom, preached for the last time at Desert Springs PCA, had a sweet time of fellowship with our brothers and sisters at a sister Hispanic church in South Tucson, and ate lasagna on paper plates at home with Polly's parents.
What amazing things God has done for us here in Tucson. The theme of the weekend for me was that we are being sent out to do what God has called us to do. Sent out by family and friends who love us dearly, who believe in us, who trust God to take care of us, and are excited to see God at work.
Here are some of the details (for those of you who like such things…)
On Friday night we enjoyed one last visit to a Tucson hot-spot called Sabino Canyon. Sabino is a picturesque and picture-perfect hiking and walking experience of the Tucson high-mountain desert.
This was on my “bucket list” of things to do before we left town. I had been on the hike many times before, but this time we splurged and took the tram. Our dear friends Nick and Betsy Dunlap joined us for the ride, some splashing and playing in the water, and a picnic on the rocks.
Then, on Saturday, amidst our many boxes, we hosted an all-day open house. The house was filled even past the stated 4p ending time with people that have blessed us and encouraged us in so many ways. Many brought gifts, but all brought good memories and encouragements about what God is doing in our lives and in our unknown future.
Saturday night was also a wonderful evening. We spend Saturday night with Polly's family (her two aunts, her uncle, and her cousin, as well as her mom and dad) and Phil's mom--poolside with pizza! It was so relaxing after hosting in our home all day to sit outside, under the sunset, with family. We will miss them dearly.
Sunday was definitely a “full day.” It started with a worship service at our church, Desert Springs, where Phil preached his last sermon from Acts 15:9, “No Distinction.”
That dear church family held a potluck afterwards in our honor and said thank you to Phil for his ministry. They have been a blessing to one another: that church to Phil, and Phil to that church.
Then, afterwards, we attended a worship service at a Hispanic sister church where Phil has preached several times over the years.
Towards the end of the service, Phil got up to thank the church for the many ways that they have blessed us and for the privilege of being a part of God's work there.
He explained to them that we are moving to NJ to start a new church community. He said, “We have no building, no people, and no house, but that we have a big God.” After hearing this, this dear congregation burst out with applause to the Lord.
Its amazing to see how quickly people who for a variety of reasons MUST live by faith recognize it when others are doing the same.
These people have experienced God in their church in very powerful ways. In their seemingly financially difficult state, they have planted a church in Nogales, AZ. They have torn down walls in the sanctuary to make room for more people. They are seeing people come out of prison saved and ready to serve God. They have a core group of young men that are on fire for God. All this because of the faith God has given them.
While we visited yesterday, they spoke into our hearts of the hope that we have in Christ to use us in mighty ways, that He loves us, and that He will provide.
I especially was encouraged to keep God's Word close during all the chaos of packing and moving and to keep my eyes on Jesus.
To be honest, this move is scary. There are so many unknowns. But we were reminded, that indeed, God is BIG. Even if we are swirling in the mess and fears of moving, He remains big and in control. I am so grateful that we spent time with our friends at Templo la Uncion yesterday. Over these busy days of preparing to move, our kids have done a great job. But they also have asked some funny questions.
Stasi wants to know if we are going to take our house with us. Noah wants to know about what sort of friends he will have in NJ. Grace only wants to be assured that she will get to go to kindergarten. Maggie is aware that this house is no longer ours. Fitch is wondering how he is going to keep up his biking without Grandpa Mike around. Lydia has been researching which sports she will get to do in the fall and which ones in the spring at her new high school.
We are so thankful for our kids positive attitudes. What they have not seemed to question is God's care for us, and that life will be good!
Isn't it amazing how easily they trust while it is so hard for us? We have lots of questions! Questions that strike fear in our hearts. Questions that cause us to be irritable with one another. Questions that cause us to lay awake at night.
Do you think the kids are loosing any sleep? No way! They are just looking forward to the next adventure! Sometimes, we need only look to our kids to show us what faith looks like!
We visited some great Tucson hot-spots, hosted an all-day open house at the house, enjoyed a poolside pizza dinner with Polly's family and Phil's mom, preached for the last time at Desert Springs PCA, had a sweet time of fellowship with our brothers and sisters at a sister Hispanic church in South Tucson, and ate lasagna on paper plates at home with Polly's parents.
What amazing things God has done for us here in Tucson. The theme of the weekend for me was that we are being sent out to do what God has called us to do. Sent out by family and friends who love us dearly, who believe in us, who trust God to take care of us, and are excited to see God at work.
Here are some of the details (for those of you who like such things…)
On Friday night we enjoyed one last visit to a Tucson hot-spot called Sabino Canyon. Sabino is a picturesque and picture-perfect hiking and walking experience of the Tucson high-mountain desert.
This was on my “bucket list” of things to do before we left town. I had been on the hike many times before, but this time we splurged and took the tram. Our dear friends Nick and Betsy Dunlap joined us for the ride, some splashing and playing in the water, and a picnic on the rocks.
Then, on Saturday, amidst our many boxes, we hosted an all-day open house. The house was filled even past the stated 4p ending time with people that have blessed us and encouraged us in so many ways. Many brought gifts, but all brought good memories and encouragements about what God is doing in our lives and in our unknown future.
Saturday night was also a wonderful evening. We spend Saturday night with Polly's family (her two aunts, her uncle, and her cousin, as well as her mom and dad) and Phil's mom--poolside with pizza! It was so relaxing after hosting in our home all day to sit outside, under the sunset, with family. We will miss them dearly.
Sunday was definitely a “full day.” It started with a worship service at our church, Desert Springs, where Phil preached his last sermon from Acts 15:9, “No Distinction.”
That dear church family held a potluck afterwards in our honor and said thank you to Phil for his ministry. They have been a blessing to one another: that church to Phil, and Phil to that church.
Then, afterwards, we attended a worship service at a Hispanic sister church where Phil has preached several times over the years.
Towards the end of the service, Phil got up to thank the church for the many ways that they have blessed us and for the privilege of being a part of God's work there.
He explained to them that we are moving to NJ to start a new church community. He said, “We have no building, no people, and no house, but that we have a big God.” After hearing this, this dear congregation burst out with applause to the Lord.
Its amazing to see how quickly people who for a variety of reasons MUST live by faith recognize it when others are doing the same.
These people have experienced God in their church in very powerful ways. In their seemingly financially difficult state, they have planted a church in Nogales, AZ. They have torn down walls in the sanctuary to make room for more people. They are seeing people come out of prison saved and ready to serve God. They have a core group of young men that are on fire for God. All this because of the faith God has given them.
While we visited yesterday, they spoke into our hearts of the hope that we have in Christ to use us in mighty ways, that He loves us, and that He will provide.
I especially was encouraged to keep God's Word close during all the chaos of packing and moving and to keep my eyes on Jesus.
To be honest, this move is scary. There are so many unknowns. But we were reminded, that indeed, God is BIG. Even if we are swirling in the mess and fears of moving, He remains big and in control. I am so grateful that we spent time with our friends at Templo la Uncion yesterday. Over these busy days of preparing to move, our kids have done a great job. But they also have asked some funny questions.
Stasi wants to know if we are going to take our house with us. Noah wants to know about what sort of friends he will have in NJ. Grace only wants to be assured that she will get to go to kindergarten. Maggie is aware that this house is no longer ours. Fitch is wondering how he is going to keep up his biking without Grandpa Mike around. Lydia has been researching which sports she will get to do in the fall and which ones in the spring at her new high school.
We are so thankful for our kids positive attitudes. What they have not seemed to question is God's care for us, and that life will be good!
Isn't it amazing how easily they trust while it is so hard for us? We have lots of questions! Questions that strike fear in our hearts. Questions that cause us to be irritable with one another. Questions that cause us to lay awake at night.
Do you think the kids are loosing any sleep? No way! They are just looking forward to the next adventure! Sometimes, we need only look to our kids to show us what faith looks like!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
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