tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35806464443206518762024-03-13T02:19:19.632-07:00Follow The LeaderThen I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said "Here I am. Send me!" Isaiah 6:8Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-82644991352335030782011-07-20T14:38:00.000-07:002011-07-20T14:52:09.718-07:00It's God calling...I have been reading a few books recently! As you may notice in my previous post I was reading the book "Radical". I finished and have read two other books since! This is probably the first time in my life I have read so many books in such a short amount of time! The other books that I read were "Heaven is for Real" and "Sacred Romance", both of which I highly recommend! In reading "Sacred Romance" I discovered a new love for my Savior! A new love that He has for me! A love that goes beyond circumstances or situations; a love so deep that it reaches into even the deepest and most secret places of my heart and soul! It's not easy to seek Him as much as I should, but I am learning new things every time I allow God into my life, allowing Him to take my stress, take my worries, my fears! He is so faithful to strengthen us and carry our burdens when we relinquish ourselves to Him in humility and thanksgiving!<br /><br />God is stirring new things in my heart. Calling me to a greater intimacy! I don't know all of the ins-and-outs of this journey or where I may end up, but I have a peace that passes understanding. I trust God will carry me through it all, knowing that His thoughts for me are good and not of evil. He has a plan and a purpose for my life!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-36621434898926306312011-06-16T13:49:00.000-07:002011-06-16T16:47:09.453-07:00To be RadicalI have been reading a book called "Radical" by David Platt. This book is so good! I highly recommend it, but only if you are willing to open your eyes to God's view of His purpose for our lives. *The book is very straight forward and may be offensive to some readers, but I agree with much of what Platt says.<br /><br />In the book Platt writes about the American Dream and what that means for us as Christians. Should we fulfill the American Dream? What does that look like according to the Bible and God's perspective? One chapter hit me really hard. It's called 'How Much is Enough? American Wealth and World Poverty' I want to share a few excerpts from the chapter... <br /><br /> p.111 "if our lives do not reflect radical compassion for the poor, there is reason to question just how effective we will be in declaring the glory of Christ to the ends of the earth. More pointedly, if our lives do not reflect radical compassion for the poor, there is reason to wonder if Christ is really in us at all."<br /><br />WOW! What a statement! I ask myself, "Am I living radically to reflect God's glory by showing compassion to the poor?"<br />Flashbacks flood my mind...praying for a woman on the bus who had an arm defect...sitting on a dirty sidewalk with a gypsy praying and leading her to Christ...holding small abandoned children fully aware of my chances of getting lice...<br />I hope and pray that my life is a reflection of God's glory and love to the lost and poor.<br /><br />Later in the chapter the author shares the story in Luke 16 of the rich man who lives in luxury while ignoring the poor man, Lazarus, who sits outside his gate. The day came that they both died. The rich man went to hell and Lazarus, the poor man outside the gate, went to Heaven. <br /><br /> p.114 "The rich man in this story is not in hell because he had money. Instead, he is in hell because he lacked faith in God, leading him to indulge in luxuries while ignoring the poor outside his gate. As a result, earth was his heaven, and eternity became his hell."<br /> Do we have poor outside our gate that we neglect? Do we turn our head the other way and think to ourselves "God wouldn't use me...look at my problems" or things like "There's no way I could give to the poor, my budgets too tight as it is"?<br /><br />I have asked myself, "am I doing enough? Who else can I help?" After becoming a full-time missionary in Argentina, I was saddened by the fact that I was no longer able to monthly support a young girl in Honduras (who I had been supporting for a couple years). Now I wonder to myself, "was that the right thing to do, look out for my needs and stop helping this girl?", "should I have kept supporting her while at the same time raising my own support?" I don't have an answer, but my hearts desire is to bless others even while trusting God for my financial situation. <br /><br />I have become content living with what I have and not buying more. Having lived out of the United States for the last three years, I have learned so much about my own culture. I realize that society says "It's all about you! You're wants, desires, needs!" Society says "Independence is the only way!" I have realized how little we Americans value our families. We look to better our own lives, we move out of our parents house to find our own, have our own car, while at the same time falling more and more into debt. I'm not suggesting we live with mom and dad forever, but why not save a few bucks! Oh, would that hurt our status queue? would we be seen as "out of date and totally not cool"? What would our friends say if they knew we rode the bus or walked? Before I left Argentina in May I really wanted to try and save money while here in the States; I thought about riding the bus, walking to the grocery close to my house, etc. Upon arriving I found out that the car I had planned on driving is now uninsured and not working. I was upset. I had planned on driving and was kind of excited after not having driven in quite some time! One day as I was walking down the road, a little frustrated with my conditions, God reminded me of my wishes back in Argentina. I chuckled to myself and thought, thanks God for making it impossible for me to drive! That way there's no temptation, I have to save money by walking or riding the bus! God has a funny way of giving us our desires!<br /><br />Okay, back to the book!<br />I am learning and continue to seek God for guidance and wisdom in my finances. Just as Platt states in the book, p.123 "I wonder at some points if I'm being irresponsible or unwise. But then I realize there is never going to come a day when I stand before God and He looks at me and says, "I wish you would have kept more for yourself". I'm confident that God will take care of me."<br /> p.117 "In the dawn of this new phase in redemptive history, no teachers (including Jesus) in the New Testament ever promise material wealth as a reward for obedience." <br />I do want to say that following Jesus doesn't necessarily imply a loss of all your private property or possessions.<br /> p.121 "Are we looking to Jesus for total leadership in our lives, even if that means going against everything our affluent culture and maybe even our affluent religious neighbors might tell us to do?" <br /><br />When we believe God calls us to give extravagantly, go to other nations, adopt internationally, or just be radical with our finances, do we trust Him? Do we trust Him to know what is best for our lives, our families, and our financial future? <br /><br />A phrase I learned and love says "Stop telling God how big your problems are and tell your problems how big your God is!" Finances are NOT bigger than God.<br /><br />1 Timothy 6:6-9 "Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction."<br /><br />This isn't even mentioning the next verse that talks about the love of money, but clearly talks about the desire to even be rich! We need to be careful about what our desires are. Do we want to be comfortable? Live in luxury? I'm not saying that having things is bad or sinful, but let's remember to glorify God with all that we have. God has given us excess, not so that we could have more, but so that we could give more.<br /><br />I love the example that Platt gives of John Wesley.<br /> p.128 "Wesley identified a modest level of expenses that he was going to live on every year. The first year his income surpassed his level by a small amount, and he gave that excess away. The next year his income increased, but he kept his standards of living the same, so he had more to give away. This continued year after year. At one point Wesley was making the equivalent of about $160,000 a year, in today's terms, but he was living as if he were making $20,000 a year. As a result, he had the equivalent of $140,000 to give away that year."<br />Wow! What a testimony of someone who really lived radically! I hope my life reflects that same radical trust and generosity!<br /><br />I'd love to hear your advice, encouragement, or thoughts...Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-50259150496466663362011-06-13T14:09:00.000-07:002011-06-13T14:23:12.180-07:00Fun with Friends!!!This weekend I had a great time with old friends! We went to Hood Canal and had a great time even though it wasn't very warm... but that didn't keep me from going skiing!!!<br />I was so thankful I was able to ski. I had been a little worried because the last time I had been skiing was about 4 or 5 years ago and I have had 3 knee surgeries since then. But as I looped around the canal, tears fell from my eyes out of thankfulness to be skiing again!!!<br /><br /><br />The Girls right before skiing!!!<br />Hosanna, Emily, Lynne, me, and Lindsey (a new friend!)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Wx8RrtusAQtAYIlU2StwB0QokUPXak-Cc_5RFaboxoJHB9juuy4B-Z1Nx5i7VQkmYBXSUQwLoMTFad2uUwEZwKnqh1wYDAGxjKLfsRPc9QEbprYB6JSj1bB6VYbKtr6CpaeElPcD_WUa/s1600/247058_10150268199071421_562756420_9321312_3374243_s.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 130px; height: 87px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Wx8RrtusAQtAYIlU2StwB0QokUPXak-Cc_5RFaboxoJHB9juuy4B-Z1Nx5i7VQkmYBXSUQwLoMTFad2uUwEZwKnqh1wYDAGxjKLfsRPc9QEbprYB6JSj1bB6VYbKtr6CpaeElPcD_WUa/s200/247058_10150268199071421_562756420_9321312_3374243_s.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617817293129615234" /></a>Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-38769628215181220032011-06-01T13:09:00.000-07:002011-06-01T13:49:11.049-07:00Thoughts and PonderingsI am at home in the States right now!!! I have two siblings getting married in July!!! I'm excited to be here for summer...I hope it stops raining soon!<br /><br />It has been great to reconnect with family after not being here for over a year. It has been great, but I do admit that it has been challenging. My family doesn't recognize their daughter/sister. They see someone who appears to be a part of the family but have said things like "you're very distinct...we're trying to figure out who you are." And when I say recognize, that doesn't mean physically. I look just about the same.<br />But I do believe God has done and will continue to do a lot of inside changes that may not be as obvious to see as I continue to deepen my relationship with Him. I have learned a lot about myself, my fears, my enemies, my potential, my gifts, my passions, about my past, my present and my future. I have been broken, I have been built up, I have been set free. I have experienced in God in a new and real way!<br />Talking with someone recently I asked why they believed God to be real. What I was looking for in their response was that they could say that they have experienced Him, beyond what the Bible says, beyond what their parents say, what church says, what their "supposed" to believe. But that really they believed in God because they had experienced Him!<br /><br />My journey with God will never end. I will make mistakes, learn from them, and keep walking and growing; holding on to God's hand every step of the way.<br /><br />One thing I have also learned is that when I hear from the Lord, I also look to others. I want to hear concerns and advice. But that doesn't mean that I will or have to walk exactly according to the advice or concerns. I want to go before the Lord with what He's spoken, with what others have shared and weigh them before Him, seek His best. <br /><br />I will not doubt in the darkness/confusion/conflict/disagreement what I believe God has spoken to me in the light/clarity.Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-68708941502924894382011-03-11T14:25:00.000-08:002011-03-11T14:57:59.380-08:00Hey blogging world....<br /><br />The past 5 months I was apart of the leadership team of the<br />Discipleship Training School here in Mendoza! We had 18 students from<br />5 nations, the school had two different orientations, one in<br />counseling/mercy and the other in sports! It was an amazing time of<br />seeing God transform lives, do miracles in everyday situations,<br />encourage and disciple others to seek God and a time of growing,<br />stretching and deepening my personal walk with the Lord! I co-lead an<br />outreach team of 5 students and we went to Santa Cruz, Argentina (far<br />south). We worked in various cities doing children´s events, sharing<br />with youth groups, and always interceding and evangelizing, and<br />showing God´s love through simple acts of kindness!<br /><br />I am ready to continue all that God has for me to do here in Mendoza!<br />I am focusing on raising up the Children´s Ministry, working with<br />various activities in the different ministries here in YWAM<br />Mendoza...sports, mercy, art, King´s Kids, and so much more!<br /><br />Please join me in prayer and support for the challenges and new<br />opportunities God has for this year! I hope to see great changes in<br />the lives of many children throughout Mendoza!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-568156166088279272011-01-11T07:35:00.000-08:002011-01-11T07:49:21.713-08:00The path...I was going through a rough time and some asked me how I felt, he wanted to know what was going through my head, how I really felt and this is what I said...<br /><br />¨I feel like a child running down a path laughing cheerfully with friends when all of the sudden I find myslef in the middle of a huge mud puddle.<br />I call to my friends asking for help and in return they look back at me surprised by my condition and one says, ¨get yourself out! your the one who wasn´t looking far enough ahead, it´s your own fault you ended up there in the mud!¨<br />I felt so broken and abandoned inside, I began to cry as I sat there in the muddy path watching my friends go on ahead laughing excited for the upcoming events...¨<br /><br />I know all situations work out for the good of those who love and seek God. He has shown himself faith through it all...I don´t know where the path ends, but I looking ahead, watching out for mud puddles, but over all, looking up to my Daddy who carries me through it all! New things are coming, I find myself on the path again, no more mud puddle, no more tears, just hope and peace!!!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-71709275268406496982010-07-10T10:52:00.000-07:002010-07-10T11:07:33.605-07:00Update on LifeFriends,<br /><br />I don’t know where this letter finds you, but I want you to know that I’m thinking of you and praying that wherever you are, you recognize the presence of the almighty God right beside you. As you are there and I am here, let me tell you about what’s happening in Mendoza.<br /><br />As you might know I have been working as a volunteer in a preschool in my neighborhood. It has been such a great opportunity to get to know the children of the area, to see how a preschool is run, to take ideas and create new ones, and most importantly to bring the presence of God into a dark place.<br />These children need His love. They are, at such a young age (3 years old), acting in ways that I wouldn’t want my child of any age to act. They come from a lower class in society where abuse just might be a part of their little lives, where hunger is seen on a small scale, where violence is a daily occurrence and seen as normal. These kids need role models, examples to follow and that is way God has called me to this place, to love them, protect them, teach them, stand up for them, and show them abundant life in Jesus.<br /><br />This month we were able to participate in a movement/protest against the legalization of homosexual marriage and child adoption. There have been two of these events with more than 1000 people standing up for God’s original design for family. It is possible that due to the rising up of so many people all over Argentina, the law might not be approved!<br /><br />I continue praying and seeking God’s guidance as to the steps we are to take in moving the Kid’s Center ministry forward. What does God have in mind? What are the next steps we are to take? Who will be apart of this ministry (directly and indirectly)? Where should we buy property and build? These are all questions that only God knows the answers to, the key is to seek His heart and discover His will.<br /><br />I had an accident about a month ago and hurt my neck and back. I did two weeks of physical therapy and am feeling much better. While I was attending the sessions I had the opportunity on various occasions to tell the therapists about my faith and the gift of salvation! The word of the Lord never returns void and I pray that this seed will take root in their hearts and that they may come to know God personally.<br /><br />Please keep me in your prayers as I continue to live by faith daily extending His kingdom. God has brought me to a deeper level with Him; I am learning to walk daily sustained by His miracles. May God give us strength each day to die to ourselves and put Him on the throne. He knows best and has authority over all things!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-79618072840155810332010-04-16T12:36:00.001-07:002010-04-16T13:15:02.257-07:00Open DoorsGod has been speaking to me a lot lately about His plans and dreams for me!<br /><br />Let´s rewind a bit...<br />May 2007, it was my last year of highschool and I was on the varsity track team. I had been doing track and field for six years, i loved it and God had blessed me with this talent! I had two different colleges that had invited me to run track for them, but after praying about it I felt that God was calling me to head a different direction...Mendoza, Argentina!<br />It was not the easiest thing leaing home and i had really enjoyed the years of running track, but felt like God was calling to move on to something new.<br /><br />After arriving here and realizing that soccer is almost as important as eating, i decided to give it a shot. I had never really played it back home since it wasn´t a sport that anyone in my family played, but thought it would be fun to learn!<br />It wasn´t very long until i began to really enjoy planning and they asked me to join the girls team here on the YWAM base! I said yes and we began practicing each week!<br />Last year in August as i was playing soccer one day, I had an accident and tore my ACL (a ligament in my knee). It didn´t take me very long to realize what i had done since two years previously i had tore the ssame ligament in the other knee.<br />I flew home and had surgery, the doctors told me that i needed to rest and wait 6 months before playing sports again. I did my exercises and recovery as they told me, and when March rolled around i slowly and cautiously began to play soccer again.<br />Last week as i was playing i streched a muscle weird and it was sore for about 3 days. I was frustrated and did understand why i was getting hurt again. It had been awhile since the last time i had played, but i began to pray about it and ask God what He wanted to speak to me through this.<br /><br />In my frustration i thought to myself:¨why would God give me such a strong passion and love for sports if i just keep getting hurt and then am unable to play?¨ <br />Then suddenly i was reminded of a quote one of my leaders once told me: ¨When God gives us dreams and passions, He gives us doors to walk through. Sometimes we keep trying to open one, but it seems that no matter how hard we try to beat down the door, it won´t open...it´s then that we need to realize that there are other doors. It doesn´t mean that God doesn´t want us to walk in the dream or passion, it just means we need to find the right door to walk through in order to fulfill God´s dream.¨ I am realizing that maybe soccer is not the right door for me. As i was seeking the Lord and the door, God reminded me of something that I gave up when i came here. I gave up running, i had loved it, i wanted to run in college, i loved competing, but i had chosen something greater by coming here and now was reminding me of that dream and passion i left behind.<br />I don´t know what God has for me in the future, but i am seeking the right door to wak through in order to fulfill the dreams God has for my life!<br />I am talking with my leaders and praying about joining a track team here in Mendoza! <br /><br />Please keep me in your prayers as I seek God and the doors He wants to open in my life!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-9473840453455159142010-04-01T07:46:00.000-07:002010-04-01T08:19:26.524-07:00Constitucion, Chile - Earthquake and Tsunami Relief<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJ3ofh2dwg9apkPW1NQa26KqcxQtNWzHdUL8SoEwYiCKFrxxFZM1tqktFNmQQuHCrpRTxGSejMzYoH8u4LBNZWy9x0mVdBbKL7VE2skzuMTRBwnOv6k5BEYuZB-AoAKOBzar3BO3n13ic/s1600/P3240154.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 112px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJ3ofh2dwg9apkPW1NQa26KqcxQtNWzHdUL8SoEwYiCKFrxxFZM1tqktFNmQQuHCrpRTxGSejMzYoH8u4LBNZWy9x0mVdBbKL7VE2skzuMTRBwnOv6k5BEYuZB-AoAKOBzar3BO3n13ic/s200/P3240154.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455183561724954130" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpHTJLkKavEAMHdJ5gWiBPcNamZ30xruVtwpD32p5XLUrHVfTXm7655whzo1IWLQK7tkkbNeCFHHxtHsNgLau-ZlkB8Brzn9tkPP4c4vL0Iln4HBg64ARzG4zv1YFAKeAXmklperae7lt/s1600/P3240152.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 112px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpHTJLkKavEAMHdJ5gWiBPcNamZ30xruVtwpD32p5XLUrHVfTXm7655whzo1IWLQK7tkkbNeCFHHxtHsNgLau-ZlkB8Brzn9tkPP4c4vL0Iln4HBg64ARzG4zv1YFAKeAXmklperae7lt/s200/P3240152.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455183557501960306" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirASOQ_Yz0pv65XNTChL10NJbpHXgY2S578EEqMviYggAe9wRAx8TuWWFnaApUdmiz397RLHK1Juqp6sjOJ6ac0_Nok35EHQBuyopdt1o85_pLpI7sGn7n1d26Bkl41yBICgD_KNJzu95w/s1600/P3240149.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 112px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirASOQ_Yz0pv65XNTChL10NJbpHXgY2S578EEqMviYggAe9wRAx8TuWWFnaApUdmiz397RLHK1Juqp6sjOJ6ac0_Nok35EHQBuyopdt1o85_pLpI7sGn7n1d26Bkl41yBICgD_KNJzu95w/s200/P3240149.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455183517731288882" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmBl5Kd2zKm_J-K-LMYd9IFMmi9RC9ZM77Os-iNMZ7FqcK7wG1tW9WH7Sa9fZHGMCImnM3_GfOadozAlLLI9AdG2EhirkJE1lMePt6Av1ZdIlota0hu6VOmqvUAs4kfU2Byht5b3Mk5UU/s1600/P3240134.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 112px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmBl5Kd2zKm_J-K-LMYd9IFMmi9RC9ZM77Os-iNMZ7FqcK7wG1tW9WH7Sa9fZHGMCImnM3_GfOadozAlLLI9AdG2EhirkJE1lMePt6Av1ZdIlota0hu6VOmqvUAs4kfU2Byht5b3Mk5UU/s200/P3240134.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455183512968863410" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRew5EB_hv7bhzIJ4mRtGG7HQWmBd_8ybqoeXmpIwY_QsOsOvZ0Txfpz2Z14OSyprImxiIktirRW6PjzuCd1Jk0tZrvB-X83Me1iz6k_4oEmbVI6_WUprQjP5cn1K1rqTUWg0T3TarRp0q/s1600/P3240131.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 112px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRew5EB_hv7bhzIJ4mRtGG7HQWmBd_8ybqoeXmpIwY_QsOsOvZ0Txfpz2Z14OSyprImxiIktirRW6PjzuCd1Jk0tZrvB-X83Me1iz6k_4oEmbVI6_WUprQjP5cn1K1rqTUWg0T3TarRp0q/s200/P3240131.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455183509126316162" /></a><br />This last week i have been helping with the earthquake/tsunami relief in Constitucion, Chile. Many people's lives, jobs, families, and house have been affected greatly by this tragedy.<br />I have had the privilege of sharing the Word of God with many people and they have been open to listening and receiving prayer! god is doing great things and i hope to see Constitucion rebuilt, firm on the foundation of God's truth!<br /><br />Please keep us in your prayers as there is much work yet to be done. The greatest need that we are seeing is the need for emotional and psychological help/comfort. Many people are receiving donations and getting back to life, but many businesses have been destroyed. I have heard it said that it could take Constitucion 30 years to rebuild itself to where it was before the earthquake and tsunami.<br />Please also pray for wisdom and guidance as we talk with people, that God would give us words and divine appointments as well!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-54692136752019949352010-01-20T06:52:00.000-08:002010-01-20T06:54:33.382-08:00Running the RaceI feel like I’m running a race. <br /><br />I’ve been running for quite some time, I’m tired, I feel alone, and I want to get to the finish line in order to receive the price of a race well run.<br /><br />I am running to reach the goal. I’m running with perseverance. Running in obedience without understanding the full idea of why the race seems so long.<br /><br />Every time I think as though the end is coming I’m left with dust on my knees; I get back up and keep on running despite the bruises and weariness.<br /><br />The other day I was encouraged, a friend told me that I was not alone in this race. They told me that they were in it too. They told me that if we run just a little bit more we will arrive! We will receive the price for our obedience and perseverance!<br /><br />Lord Jesus, Help me never lose sight of you. Help me remember that you are my strength; you are the giver of life. You are my everything. I am never satisfied with what I have in you; I need more of you each day.<br />Help me to persevere even when I don’t understand. Help me to walk in obedience even when it doesn’t make sense. I will not live life by my emotions or the circumstances; I will live by the truth on which I stand. I will continue recognizing you in all things, I am not my own. You have given me life and given it to the fullest. I am ever so grateful. I love you Jesus. I need you. Please be with me in this race. Please guide me in my steps. Show me where to turn and where keep straight. Show me your hand when I start to fall. Be with me Jesus. I will follow you where ever you go.<br />Guide me in your ways. Run this race with me today and always.Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-42172164164914943782009-12-26T10:31:00.000-08:002009-12-26T11:12:46.751-08:00The Different WeekHere in the YWAM base in Mendoza we had our annual Semana Diferente (Different Week)!<br />We invite people from LaValle Desert, a place where the indigenous Huarpe people live, to come experience something different, something special!<br /><br />For several weeks prior we had been praying about this Different Week and we really wanted to know what God wanted to do. We began to understand that God wanted to show Himself in supernatural ways! <br /><br /><br />This year was a bit different, we had the most people we have ever had, there were about 800 people that came from the desert and then all of us from the base, from Puerto Rico, and many other volunteers who came to help! We ended with a gran total of about 1000 people! It was a great week full of hard work preparing before the event, then a week full of work loving on the people, providing their every need, organizing events, taking care of the 200 kids (3-13 yrs. old) and not to mention those of other age groups!<br /><br />For 6 days we provided them with activities, great food, a huge swimming pool, outings to the mountains, movie theater, and many other exciting places, and to finish off the week, we have a very special Christmas dinner with presents for everyone!<br /><br /><br />The team from Puerto Rico came to do a medical operation. They spent the week giving free check-ups to everyone and providing medication when needed. It was such a blessing to have them because many of us got sick with a bad virus that the people from the desert had brought with them.<br /><br />I am content to say that God showed Himself faithful and did things supernatural! This year the people truly experience a different week!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-4377909355174434182009-11-22T14:34:00.000-08:002009-11-22T14:38:27.818-08:00What is it worth?Last week the art ministry and I went to a home for children who have been taken from their homes due to parental problems. These kids are in such a need of love, affection, and just someone who will listen to them. We went to present a few skits and share a time with them. It was difficult because most of the kids were from 1-6 years old and wanted to be held or didn’t pay much attention to what we were doing, but I felt privileged to be there and see the reality of what the kids here in Mendoza are living. It is a sad reality and there is so much work to be done.<br /><br />On the way home I was talking with one of the girls who went with us and she said she couldn’t wait to wash her hands and get out of there. I was so saddened by the outlook she presented. God has put a great burden in my heart for the lost, abandoned and needy children of the world. This girl also began to tell me of how difficult it was for her to be at this home with those kids, they had lice, they were dirty, and they wouldn’t stop touching us. I saw such need and my heart grew sad for these kids. I didn’t ask permission neither did I mention it to anyone but as I began to interact with these kids, I began to pray a blessing over each one, knowing that God could do something great with their lives. After chatting with this girl I began to ponder what she had said and I asked myself: <br /><br />Is it worth it? <br /><br />This girl saw these kids as dirty and lice infested. I saw them as kids in need of love.<br />She couldn’t wait to leave and wash her hands. I wanted to hug as many as possible. Yes, I wanted to wash my hands too, but the moment with them was more important to me.<br /><br />Is it worth it to get dirty when holding a child longing for love? <br /><br />Are we too worried about ourselves that we forget the hurting lives of others? <br /><br />Is it worth it to sit with a child and have the chance of getting lice or are we too selfish that we don’t recognize the opportunity we have to extend God’s kingdom?<br /><br />I don’t mean to say anything bad about this precious girl, don’t get me wrong, she is a wonderful women of God. But it did make me ponder. <br /><br />What is it worth to you?Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-85699888618701723642009-11-14T08:17:00.000-08:002009-11-14T08:24:39.812-08:00My first week back in Mendoza!I´m back in Argentina and enjoying the hot weather!<br />This week has gone by quickly and seems like i have already been here for much longer than that.<br /><br />I am getting used to the hang of things and getting back into the rythem.<br />It has been wondeful to see the way GOd has everything planned out! I am getting involved with the people in the neighborhood before we start building the kid´s center in March or April.<br />Only a couple weeks before i returned, the Director´s wife, Nayda, recieved a call from the community center asking if there was anyone who could provide childcare one day a week while the ladies of the nieighborhood get together for a few hours.<br />Nayda said that there was no one at the moment, but the I was returning and would possibly be interested. I am SO interested and excited to be working with these kids!<br />God is really opening the doors and i am walking into many new and amazing things!<br /><br />That´s about all i have to share for now. I´m sure i will hae much more as God continues to show me the way!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-14364034266099540772009-10-30T20:09:00.000-07:002009-10-30T20:40:19.217-07:00The Victorious<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3fpESCAX0hksnPs8xWXtBwR5qa2FpVbAShOszHKpou9FqAgZQ4G8OU16TN9qzjn_MGQ7qDQoNe_LhNHeVURSl-BY0hQgY1Vj5xGby8Fderw5aS1ku3-QJZIxxWBO_MC9W0m5FHt3QTlPn/s1600-h/20090419-victory.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3fpESCAX0hksnPs8xWXtBwR5qa2FpVbAShOszHKpou9FqAgZQ4G8OU16TN9qzjn_MGQ7qDQoNe_LhNHeVURSl-BY0hQgY1Vj5xGby8Fderw5aS1ku3-QJZIxxWBO_MC9W0m5FHt3QTlPn/s200/20090419-victory.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398602429257422210" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBOlnkOVzYc80XMeYYv_NY4GGd9Qhgt3XH_K5sFVFkj9QVnMoqbhejuHd7NHB0ms4RCz5syDCmuwQH32FBtFou8gMPE70PR_GT81s6O0Bn9k4pu8bwG-Ajvpejzy9-FGCI6bQ6Db9UXWI/s1600-h/victory.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBOlnkOVzYc80XMeYYv_NY4GGd9Qhgt3XH_K5sFVFkj9QVnMoqbhejuHd7NHB0ms4RCz5syDCmuwQH32FBtFou8gMPE70PR_GT81s6O0Bn9k4pu8bwG-Ajvpejzy9-FGCI6bQ6Db9UXWI/s200/victory.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398602426346741346" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifE6Mq19_8Zs-my6CmXtiorjZVOFS6pmg1xegthOfWtRNaWS9yfAGTRzwfS-tZoLF8mk9p1bPZT0PxVeOyY8D9ssv1-cJ5Nosf9qKKFjQbJo6R4BgkEUDyGjHS5w46ROriQTy3wtcNLRNv/s1600-h/never-ending.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifE6Mq19_8Zs-my6CmXtiorjZVOFS6pmg1xegthOfWtRNaWS9yfAGTRzwfS-tZoLF8mk9p1bPZT0PxVeOyY8D9ssv1-cJ5Nosf9qKKFjQbJo6R4BgkEUDyGjHS5w46ROriQTy3wtcNLRNv/s200/never-ending.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398602422776687138" /></a><br /><br />I have been praying about a name for the kid's center/daycare that I am starting and last night I was reading the Bible and praying when God reminded me of a vision He gave me back in February. This vision was about the kid's center, but what I saw was a road with obstacles, God was calling me to walk down this road persevere; at the end of the road stood Jesus with a sign that said "VICTORY". I knew that if i decided to walk down this road, God would give me the strength to get pass the obstacles and receive the victory! Last night as i remembered this vision i began to pray and ask God for a verse confirming this. I felt lead to read Psalms 108. The very last first, Psalm 108:13, says:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">"With God we will gain the victory, and He will trample down our enemies."</span><br /><br />God showed me that not only walking down this road would I receive victory over the obstacles, but I would be victorious!<br /><br />I believe that this kid's center should be called "The Victorious - Kid's Center" (El Victorioso - Centro de Niños). I also believe that God has great plans for these children's lives and they will be victorious as well!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-781169499400736672009-10-23T23:45:00.000-07:002009-10-24T00:15:08.964-07:00Our call of DutySomething on my mind...<br /><br />I just watched a movie that brought tears to my eyes and agony to my heart.<br />"The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" is a powerful movie about the Holocaust and an 8 year old boy who stands up for what's right.<br /><br />It made me realize the desperate need there is in the world for the gospel. The amount of people that have yet to hear the glorious life-changing news of salvation.<br /><br />I was reminded of a verse...<br /><br />THE HARVEST IS PLENTY BUT THE WORKERS ARE FEW!<br /><br />Where are the workers? Why have we forgotten our call? We, as Christians, have been employed by the greatest employer in all the universe; just think, He sends us around the world and provides for our every need! So what are we doing? In what ways are we fulfilling the job we have committed to doing when we chose to follow Christ?<br /><br />There are too many people dying in the world without the free gift that we hold in our hands. We've been called to give it away. We've been called to be the voice for those without one. We've been called to take a stand for what's right. We've been called to go <span style="font-style:italic;">against</span> the flow, be on the flip-side of society. Why do we blend in so well? Are we making a difference?<br /><br />I heard a quote from a book that said: "If Christianity were a crime, would you have enough evidence to convict you?"<br /><br />Those who've been convicted of crimes have proof and evidence of what they've done; do we, as Christians, have proof and evidence of what we've done, of what we are doing? <br /><br />WE NEED TO TAKE UP OUR CROSS AND FOLLOW HIM!!! RESPOND TO THE CALL OF DUTY!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-77666361850846249962009-10-22T21:37:00.000-07:002009-10-22T21:54:51.757-07:00In Need of a NameI need a name.<br /><br />No a child has not been born.<br />No a new kitten, puppy, nor goldfish has been brought home from the pet store.<br /><br />This is something that was conceived in the heart of God.<br />I have been thinking and praying about a name for this kid's center/daycare that I am starting. <br />As you may know, the idea of actually building came from a word from the Lord.<br /><br />1st Chronicles 17 is the passage that lead me on this journey towards building a facility.<br /><br />I am yet to have peace about a name for this place, and am open to ideas. I cannot guarantee that your idea will be used in the final choice of a name, but it may help in getting me a step farther!<br /><br />I encourage you to pray about it and read 1st Chronicles 17, maybe you'll be inspired!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-45527903932727798702009-10-19T21:11:00.000-07:002009-10-19T22:06:05.051-07:00The building continues...I now know how much money I need to raise for the daycare!!!<br /> <br /> $30,000<br /><br />Please join me as I take this giant step of faith!<br /><br />This is NOT just a daycare...I want to make that clear. This is a life saving, life changing and family uniting way to change a neighborhood!<br /><br />God has called each one of us to care for the widows and orphans (James 1:27).<br />The number of orphans is increasing and many of them are not "true" orphans, while they may have biological parents alive, they have become orphans due to a lack of financial income in the home, therefore leaving their parents with the terrible decision of releasing them into orphanages. This is no decision any mother should have to make, but without a job there seems to be no other answer.<br /><br />But that's when I come into the picture!!! This daycare is a way to provide free care for children in order that their parent(s) can find work without the guilt of leaving a child home alone for many hours. This is a way of increasing the economical state in my neighborhood, keeping more families together, and showing the love of Jesus in a practical way! <br /><br />Leave a comment for more info on how you can be a part!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-14521740076555841762009-10-15T21:34:00.000-07:002009-10-15T22:07:07.240-07:00Quick update...<br /><br />Things are going well here in the states! <br /><br />My knee recovery has gone amazingly well!!!<br />God has totally gone above and beyond a normal recovery time! <br />It's great to see how fast my knee has gotten back into shape, i'm bending it, walking great, and have increasingly flexibility!!! <br /><br />Thank You Jesus for your love and mercy on my life! Love you!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-26915200417323220532009-10-10T22:00:00.000-07:002009-10-10T22:27:20.233-07:00Ramblings...Life has been so crazy and nothing like i would have thought it would be...<br /><br />I am in the US right now as i recover from an unexpected knee surgery, well i guess no one expects those kinds of things to happen, but it was not what i had in mind.<br /><br />God has been so very gracious to me! His faithfulness continually amazes me, I mean, why would someone, who created everything, galaxy upon galaxy, even think about the little people He put on one of the planets amidst thousands upon millions of stars and planets that come in unimaginable amounts! Really, His love is so great that He gives me breath each day, He gives me a loving family who seeks Him wholeheartedly,He gives me visions, dreams and passions for the lost people of faraway lands, He blesses me with an understanding of a foreign language and the ability to adapt and embrace a culture different than my own. He wisdom to walk by faith and in patience. He teaches me about Himself and His love by showing me the poor who stand on the road in dirty clothes and hold cardboard signs. <br />He reveals me things like this:<br />I have been praying, for over a year, about working with the kids in my neighborhood in Mendoza. God has shown me many things and I'm starting a daycare! WOW! I have been praying for a place to build the daycare, but haven't really been at peace until after a conversation with my mom i began praying firmly about building the daycare on the YWAM base, in the very spot that i had spent many days, nights and hours praying for these precious children! Wow God has a way of revealing His plan and purpose!<br /><br />Anyway, God is faithful, never doubt it! He moves mountains when we choose faith!<br /><br />I am so excited to see all the things that Gos has in store for me as I walk with Him, holding tightly to His hand, on this journey reaching out to little kids in Argentina.Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-29323104999952911412009-09-13T18:51:00.000-07:002009-09-13T19:57:34.680-07:00Petition?So as i was laying down to sleep I began to pray. Pray about things I wanted, needed, desired...blessings in finances, relationships, salvation for the lost, my parents move/job, and many other things.<br /><br />I suddenly pondered, what does it mean to petition? A passage in the Bible flashed through my mind...<br /><br />Philippians 4:6<br />"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and <span style="font-weight:bold;">petition</span>, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."<br /><br />So, what does it mean to petition?<br /> <br /> - According to wikipedia: Petition is a request to change something and can also be the legal title to a pleading that initiates a case to be heard in court.<br /><br /> - According to dictionary.com: Petition is a request made for something desired, especially a respectful or humble request, as to a superior or to one of those in authority. Something that is sought for by request.<br /><br />When I think of petition, it makes me think of the people who stand in front of federal buildings with their signs and they stand their "petitioning" until something changes. Rain or shine, sun or snow, these people are faithful in standing for what they want. They believe that by marching around, waving their signs and shouting, that in the end, they can make a difference. They are confident and don't easily give up.<br /><br />Are we like this with God? Or do we give up easily, thinking that God doesn't hear us?<br /><br />Do we believe we have the power to move the hand of God?<br /><br />Are we confident that our words and actions by faith <span style="font-style:italic;">can</span> really make a difference?<br /><br />Maybe when we pray, we should not merely use words, but should believe and be confident that what we are petitioning for, will come to pass.<br /><br />God is gracious and able to do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine...so what are we afraid of? He wants to give good gifts to His children!!! If we feel as though we aren't receiving these good gifts, then who are we? Does God consider <span style="font-style:italic;">me</span> His child?<br />Am <span style="font-style:italic;">I</span> acting as one of His?<br /> <br />Those are just my thoughts and ramblings as I seek God and believe for miracles!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-27872799330418311782009-08-11T13:39:00.000-07:002009-08-11T13:40:00.725-07:00Building a dream…This dream that God has me building is getting me very excited! I keep getting new ideas and planning crazy things! I guess if I’m gonna dream, I’ll dream big when nothing is impossible for God! <br />I was praying awhile back and really wanting God to speak to me about the daycare. I was praying for a name, for a location, for anything. I really just wanted confirmation that something this crazy was actually possible. I had my Bible there on my lap and said “God I want you to speak, guide me in your word.” And I ended up in 1st Chronicles 17. He spoke to me throughout the entire chapter, but here are some key verses that stuck out to me:<br />Verse 2: “…Whatever you have in mind, do it, for God is with you.”<br /><br />Verse 10b: “I declare to you that the Lord will build a house for you.”<br /><br />Verse 23-27 “And now, Lord, let the promise you have made concerning your servant and his house be established forever. Do as you promised, so that it will be established and that your name will be great forever. Then men will say, “The Lord Almighty, the God over Israel, is Israel’s God! And the house of your servant David will be established before you. You, my God, have revealed to your servant that you will build a house for him. So your servant has found courage to pray to you. Oh Lord, you are my God! You have promised these good things to your servant. Now you have been pleased to bless the house of your servant, that it may continue forever in your sight, for you O Lord, have blessed it, and it will be blessed forever.”<br /><br />Wow! I was surprised at what God was speaking to me; He didn’t want me to find a house, but rather to build a house. I am still praying for a name, but now that I know that I will be building a house, I have an idea of where I would like to do it!<br /><br />Please join me as I build this dream into a reality!Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-36244842396274507072009-08-11T13:30:00.000-07:002009-08-11T13:34:56.302-07:00This week has been very different than most; I have been in bed unable to walk. Last week I was playing soccer and I was running I went to kick the ball, I don’t exactly know what happened but I remember feeling something move out of place and back again. This something happened in my knee. I was not happy, honestly I was mad at God for letting it happen. In the moment I was unsure of how serious this injury was, it looks as though surgery is on it's way. This time in bed has given me time for lots of sleeping, thinking, praying and pondering.<br /><br />I don’t know how much I have written about the dream that God has given me, but He spoke to me very clearly last year in October that He wanted me to do something for the children in my neighborhood, Borbollón. At the time I was unsure of exactly what it would look like, but I knew that it was to be a safe place where children could learn, live, and laugh. This place would not be an orphanage (for now), but more of a place where kids could come during the day while their parents are out working. Through many months of prayer and seeking, God has shown me much more clearly what He wants for these kids in Borbollón. While attending the school of Principles for Children and Youth Ministries, God gave me and continues to give me many visions and ideas of what this is going to look like. I am to build a daycare and provide a safe place where kids can come and spend their days learning, living, and laughing. I hope that each child in Borbollón and the surrounding area will have the opportunity to hear about Jesus’ love and the free gift of salvation. In this home, I will provide activities such as: Bible stories and other educational stories, music, physical/recreational activities, basic knowledge of health and hygiene, and breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack. <br /><br />I don’t know where or how it will all come to be, but nothing is too big for my God, and where there’s a vision, there’s sure to be provision.Carissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-29016991265170557022009-07-29T07:04:00.000-07:002009-07-30T06:44:29.332-07:00Amazed by YouI wrote a song and thought i would share it with you!<br /><br /><br />Amazed by You<br /><br />The way you paint the sky<br />Has always caught my eye<br />And you never cease to amaze me<br /><br />The sunlight at dawn<br />The moonlight comes on<br />As i walk through the darkness<br />Oh how you never cease to amaze me<br /><br />For you are my creator<br />And you are my father<br />You're the lover of my soul<br /><br />You hold the earth in your hand<br />The mountains, the streams and the sand<br />And you never cease to amaze me<br /><br />For you are my Jesus<br />You are my Savior<br />The redeemer of my sins<br /><br />You amaze me, Oh you amaze meCarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07588978573620170416noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580646444320651876.post-60351696409101641342009-07-22T10:19:00.000-07:002009-07-22T10:31:02.533-07:00Trip to UruguayWhile i was in Buenos Aires i had to renew my visa, so i went to Uruguay!!!<br /><br />had a great day walking around and taking pictures! it was cold, but i enjoyed some time resting on the dock looking out into the ocean.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSEjESFmo6ZROgODIxaXVuxQDVZisYqaAwcCld4eunJutVDmY7wZ9oawtDHGgGEaV8odv9DpUgED8fANwOt-Ol6hi-zJ5ozQmEn4K6qNPbArKrWa1anTI-7pGrggSTP0EJ2HWyanRzpc0q/s1600-h/DSCN5091.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; 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