I am not very creative. I'm not. But, I am hard working. I want to do a good job here. I pray every morning, "Please, Lord Jesus, help me not to suck today." I admittedly have put a lot of pressure on myself. :) No one wants to suck at their job, but, really...that is my prayer every day. I have had this burning feeling in my stomach for the better part of a week, and it makes for uncomfortable days and restless nights. I am hoping and praying that whatever this is passes as quickly as it came.
I am helping to create some things for an upcoming conference that Cause 4 Life is taking part. Reviewing countless photos from trips to Uganda and Haiti, it is so beautiful to see the smiles on the faces of those most affected by disability and the trying trials that accompany third world problems. There are definitely gripping photos of young disabled children being cradled in the arms of interns as well as people praising the Lord in a church service, as he appears to have been presented with a chair. The gifts of living in this country are something we all take for granted. On the same token, I can truly appreciate the freedom that a set of wheels can give a person. Wheels of any variety can open the world of independence. I have experienced that on a variety of levels. When I was five, I learned to walk with a walker. That walker had wheels on it. I was able to move independently, and not be carried from one place to another. When I was ten, I got my first wheelchair. That was such a blessing as my world got bigger, and fatigue was more an issue. When I was 26, I was able to get my first car. Talk about freedom! There is a lot to be said for being able to move. The recipients of these chairs...truly get it.
In reviewing these pictures, the presence of the Lord is ever present. The Lord is the source of our joy, and amidst all the pain and suffering, there is also unmistakable joy in the eyes and smiles of the recipients. It's amazing how something as simple as a hug can brighten someone's day. It's the little things that God uses to let people know: You. Are. Loved.
It's beautiful.
The people I work with are so nice. They've been thoughtful in helping me get to or find options for churches on Sundays. This past Sunday, Madeline, an employee at JAF, was gracious in letting me accompany her to her church excursions both on Sunday morning and Sunday evening. Both were really great church services. I have missed my church back home, though. Through a few conversations around me this week, I was able to locate a PCA church. I e-mailed the pastor of the church, who promptly responded and seemed very excited to have me inquire about worshiping with them. A few questions asked and answered, and I have a way to get to Church in The Canyon! I am just excited to see what it will be like, and to have a hint of the familiar, in the midst of so much that is unfamiliar.
So, there have been two instances in the last few weeks where the fridge in my room here at the Sheraton has quit working. Both times have resulted in spoiled, smelly food. Pew. Liquid baby cucumbers are hardly what I would call appetizing. ;-) I have become somewhat chummy with Courtney, the food and beverage manager, here at the hotel. (I think her goal was to make my blog, if you ask me!) I called her last night and was like, "My fridge has stopped working, and things that were once solid are now liquid and smelly. This is no bueno." Well, thanks to the incredibly accommodating staff, my food was replaced within the hour. Well, the really fun part of this story happened as the new fridge was being delivered. Courtney dropped a carton of blue berries. WELL! Bedford thought it was Christmas come early! All of a sudden, there is not only a plethora of tasty round treats on the floor, but a person on the floor to play with, too! Actually, Courtney was trying to get the blueberries up before Bedford could eat them. If you were to get Bedford's take on the story, he would say, "potato, po-tah-to." I think fun was had by both parties. Courtney got whacked in the face a few times by an excited tail. It was the highlight of her week. She admitted to it tonight.
In other news from home: I have the cutest, most beautiful, most perfect blue eyed angel baby of a niece that any aunt could ask for. I am so thankful for the life of my precious Anne Charlotte. These last eight months, I have truly loved watching her grow, and every time I see her sweet smile, it melts my heart. My sister-in-law, Melissa, knows what a jewel she has, and has entered her in the Gerber Contest! So, for the next three weeks, you can join me in voting for the cutest baby, ever! It only takes a minute, doesn't matter if you are a democrat or republican, and I know the Dentici clan would appreciate it!
Well, I suppose that is all for this entry. Time for my next dose of pepto bismol! I would appreciate your continued prayers, especially for my health. If anyone is wondering what to send me in the mail, antacid drugs are the latest coveted item!
War Damn Eagle, and goodnight from Agoura Hills!
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