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Father to the Fatherless

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Ashleigh

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Ok people! I need your help. How do you make a button? I created my button...kinda..but how do I  continue? 

.Father to the Fatherless….

<a href="http://www.fathertothefatherlesskz.blogspot.com ">

Ashleigh

Day Adventures......

........In morning my Daddy came in with a green tree frog in his hands.....

......We tried to contain him, but being a high leaper he escaped....

.....On the grass he hopped high....from the bucket, from the hand, over the bush, and on the toy....

.....I read that they are called "Spring Peepers" (pea-pers)......

....here he is holding still..just for the moment for me to snap the shot...

.....My brother went swimming, right when they got in a baby bird fell into the pool.....We have a tree near by, we figured it was his time to learn how to fly.....

....in need of rescue....

..It was good thing we were around get him out....we have a lot of cats....I took him out and dried him..(It is a myth that you can't touch a baby bird, the mother won't leave the baby)....(learned fact: you can't keep it- it's illegal)...The bird was so sad and was calling to his mama.....He was a cute little Barn Swallow....we weren't sure what to do so we researched....we had several choices from what we learned..we can make him a fake nest and put it close to another nest/tree..so that when the other mama comes back it will adopt this one. :) But we have a lot of empty nest around on our tress too. So I found one and climbed to put the baby inside..as soon as I did..it hopped out and down it went...making safely down he hopped away..still chirping. We figured he'll be ok, since there are plenty of mocking birds around and he was old enough to fly. We said our farewells-

isn't he adorable!....

Then is rained!! Praise the Lord! 

...i love the smell of rain on dry ground....

In Christ,

Ashleigh

AH/WaterLights Photography

Acts of Kindness......

Dear Readers,

I absolutely love Elsie Dinsmore Book! She has always been such an inspiration to me. The series are refreshing and encouraging! Beautiful!

I wanted to share these Acts of Kindness with you. There are a lot of them. What I like to do is print the pages and highlight the ones I would like to try. They encouraged me to take action in the simplest ways to show the love of Christ. I hope it will spark some ideas for you! :)

Whether it was someone she knew well, or a stranger, Elsie always tried to show God's love to others. Maybe she knew that a little bit of love goes a long way. Just a small act of kindness can strongly encourage another person, and often the kind deed will be remembered by the recipient for years to come - sometimes forever!

And best of all, when we reach out to another person and show them God's love and kindness, we are demonstrating the Gospel and planting seeds in their heart that may one day lead them to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Love is a powerful witness!

Below are some simple ideas that you can do to show God's love to people:

One of the things I did for Christmas is: I made a bunch of cookies, put them into decorative boxes with a Christmas card. I didn't even know many of our neighbors but my family, and I went to deliver the cookies. It was so much fun! They were so surprised and excited. :) Some of them weren't home so we left it for them to come home to. The people that weren't home ,that we didn't get to meet the next day came over and gave us a "thank you" note and a jar of jam. Which was yummy! Another idea, is if you know they have dogs, and you do too, and have some milk bones. Put them into a decorative baggie and take them over with the cookies. 

Other people you may like to include besides your neighbors is a  mailman, trash pick up, farrier, vet, etc.  :)  (by Ashleigh)

Do you have a friend who is moving away? Decorate a shoe box and fill it with things that will remind them of fun times that you had together. Tell them that they can't open it until they are feeling very homesick, then they will be able to open a "box of happy memories." My friend did this for me when I moved and I had a lot of fun looking over the things that she had put in it to remind me of the happy times we had together. Submitted by Kaylee.

When my Grandma was sick or not feeling well I would draw her a picture and make a paper heart saying," I love you." When you give that to your grandparents it makes them and you feel really good. Submitted by Allis M. age 9)

I think an act of kindness is simply doing what your parents say to show them that you love them. Submitted by Madalyn, 

My act of kindness is to share the word of God with someone today! It is the nicest thing you can do for someone! It does not have to be something like going on a mission trip. Just share the Word of God with someone today, maybe even a younger sibling.

I think giving someone a smile is one of the best ways to be kind to someone. I've learned this from my own experiences, and now seeing some one smile at me gives me joy! Melanie 

Some people in my church go to a senior center once a month to help serve the seniors their lunch. This is a good idea. The people there really get blessed. If you can't help serve food, just go hang out. Submitted by Miriam K., 

You can show kindness by giving a shoebox gift to Operation Christmas Child. A month or two before Christmas, take a shoebox, put gifts inside, and wrap it up. Give it to the people at Samaritan's Purse, who will send it to children whose parents are too poor to give them presents for Christmas. After I sent in a shoebox gift, I felt really good because I knew that I had made a child very happy that Christmas! Submitted by Samantha S., 

You can show kindness by baking some cookies and giving them to someone who is sick. It will really brighten their day! Submitted by Samantha S., 

Sometimes the simplest act of kindness is the most important. There is an elderly lady who lives a few hours from my home. She is my great-great grandmother’s sister, and she is often alone. I have been sending her a letter once a month for about two years. One day I was feeling a little blue and went for a walk. On my way home I checked the mail, and she had sent me the sweetest card. As I read it, I realized how she must feel when she gets a card from me. Never be too busy to send someone your love! It will be returned to you! Submitted by Kate M., 

Instead of going to a nursing home to visit the elderly only on holidays, which is still very nice, do volunteer work there on rainy or hot days, when it's not fun to play outdoors. It is fun to help, and old people have lived a whole life time - they usually have wonderfully interesting stories to tell! Submitted by Felicia B.

One act of kindness I try always to do is to hold open the door for people and give them a smile.

Befriend a person at school who seems shy and unable to connect with other kids.

Fix a basket with cozy slippers, cookies, a Bible, and whatever else you want and give it to somebody you know who is in a nursing home or sick in the hospital. Submitted by Brittany W. 

Bake cookies for someone who is mean to you or who you think doesn't like you.

I go and help my neighbor with her baby and toddler. I feel good about this because I know I help her a lot.  Submitted by Leanna

A good way to show someone an act of kindness would be, if you saw that someone was having a bad day, to ask them if they would like to talk about their problem. People like to talk to a good listener. It also helps to encourage that person the best you can, and pray for them. Submitted by Brittany Marie M. 

Draw a pretty picture and give it to an elderly person in your neighborhood who you think looks lonely.

Bake homemade cookies for your mailman.

I think a good act of kindness is to just smile and say hello to someone. I mean, when you are feeling bad it helps to have someone smile at you, say something nice or whatever. A smile really brightens up someone's day. From Carri, age12

Every year around Christmas my family goes caroling.  We bake cookies and put them in little plastic containers.  We also sing, "We Wish You a Merry Christmas."  People love the cookies, and it's a great way to minister to someone.  From Katelyn, age 13

I go on Mondays to a lady's house. I help take care of her twin babies and her two-year old. I think we should help others out.   Jessica page, 

Thessalonians 5:11 says "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up . . ." One of the ways you can show the Lord's love and kindness to people is to speak encouraging words to them. Here are some encouraging words to help you ("The ABC's of Encouraging Words"): Awesome, Amazing, Astonishing, Astounding, Beautiful, Breathtaking, Brilliant, Charming, Cool, Creative, Delightful, Exceptional, Excellent, Fabulous, Gorgeous, Great, Handsome, Impressive, Incredible, Joyful, Kind-hearted, Lively, Marvelous, Nice, Outstanding, Phenomenal, Quite good, Remarkable, Super, Spectacular, Sensational, Tremendous, Unbelievable, Valiant, Wonderful, Xtraordinary, Yahoo!, Zeal, Zest. (Submitted by Cherise)

Once my church youth choir went to a nursing home to sing.  Two of my really close friends met an older woman there. She was really nice. She said she enjoyed our singing.  If you ever go to a nursing home to sing, meet older people.  They're normally really nice. (From Abby)

This is my act of kindness. Go to your mom and say "Mom, I will clear the table and wash the dishes for you." I did it and my parents were very happy with my act of kindness!!

An important act of kindness is to spread the word of GOD'S love for us. Without Him we wouldn't exist. GOD is an important part of our lives. For some people GOD is a complete stranger, and He should not be a stranger to anyone. In this case, complete is a very big word and we don't want to use it for calling GOD a complete stranger. Please spread the word of GOD'S love to at least 2 people today. I know this act of kindness can make a difference!!!!!!!!!!!!! (From Kaitlin, age 10)

When you're at parties, family fellowships, or just about anywhere, you stick with your friends.  Am I right?  That's ok. Friends are fun, but do you remember a time when you had no friends?  Do you remember when you were new to a group?  Most of you probably do, including myself.  Well, there may be people at your fellowships that can easily identify with your past situation, who you probably don't notice, because they are standing back in the darkest corner of the room.  They are probably feeling left out, thinking that nobody cares.  Take notice of those people. Leave your friends for a little while, and show that person you care (boy or girl).  Start a conversation, introduce them to some people.  Who knows you may really grow to like them, and believe me, they will NEVER forget you. Submitted by Abigail S.

If you have a friend who is going through a long, 'stay-at-home' (or hospital) illness, a fun idea is to make them a Sunshine Box. Cover an old shoe box or an empty cereal box with gift wrap or colored paper and decorate it with plastic jewels, stickers, photos cut out from magazines and/or drawings. Make little gifts to fill up the box or buy a few inexpensive ones. Here are some ideas: 1.You can make a picture frame made out of spray-painted popsicle sticks, decorated with plastic jewels, buttons, teeny fabric roses and ribbons and stick in a favorite photo of the two of you; 2.You can also draw out a checkers, chess or even a monopoly board and paper playing pieces for an especially fun gift; 3. Write out the funniest jokes and tongue twisters you know for a homemade joke book; 4. Write a story about your friendship and illustrate it yourself. Maybe it will be about a time your friend encouraged you when you where feeling discouraged. It will mean so much to her to know how her friendship is valued.  Or it can be a funny story about things you've done over the years together. Wrap each gift separately and stick a card on each one that tells when to open it. Examples:" Open on an especially boring day" or " Open on a very happy day."

There is an old lady who goes to our church and she has three daughters who are married and have grown children, but they also live a half hour away, so she's pretty lonely. So my sister started getting a bunch of her friends {she's 17} to go play scrabble with her and last year for Christmas we took a fake little tree over and put little ornaments and lights on it and we each brought a gift to put under it. The smile on her face was enough to make anyone happy. From Jessica W. age 12

There are endless ways in which to use tracts. If you ever go shopping with your mum them here are some ideas on where you can put them: Hand a tract to the cashier; Leave tracts on the shelves in the stores; Place tracts in the dressing rooms; Place a tract in the pockets of the clothes; Hand tracts to the passengers on the elevators. You are doing a huge act of kindness if you pass out tracts because you are showing them the way out of eternal torment. YOU are showing them the way to heaven. I feel much more confident witnessing to children. If your church goes soul-winning, why not go several times and learn how to do it. If you hand out 3 tracts each day for a year, by one year, you would have passed out over 1000 tracts!  When you get to heaven, would you like people yelling: Here's your name, Here's your name!, HERE'S YOUR NAME!!, HERE'S YOUR NAME!!!  Submitted by Angela P.

Make cookies to give to senior citizens. Also visit shut-ins and the nursing homes to talk with elderly people. (Submitted by Sarah C., age 9)

If you have beads that you got when you were little and you don't use them, but you want to use them up, try this: If you have some little kids that you know have problems or kids that you baby-sit for, etc., take out your beads and make some jewelry or something like that. After you're done, give it to someone (mainly little kids around 3, 4 and 5). It will really make their day. I made something once for my two little cousins and we were going to meet them, but, unfortunately we got into an accident (no one was hurt). Someone came and took us to our desired spot. At that time, I told the kids that I had a present for them and they were as much excited as if they were winning a billion dollars! By the way, if you baby-sit, and the child is giving you a hard time, you could say that if they don't _______, you'll give them a present. That night, go home and make it for them. You'll be surprised how much they love it.

I have a brother who is getting married soon and so I'm crocheting them some things. I like making things for people. I think making things for others is something that can help them. (Submitted by Kallyn)

One time at church I had to sit next to an old lady I didn't know. So for that church service I was extra good. I paid attention to the priest and sang all the songs and prayed. I was also nice to the lady and she smiled at me a lot. After the church service was over she smiled at me and told me I did a great job at behaving and that I had a wonderful voice. I think you don't need something bought from a store for a reward. Just the special feeling that you did the right thing is your reward! (Submitted by Renee, )

If you know an elderly person or just someone who is down in spirit, talk to them!! Just a friendly smile or "I hope you have a good day", will make ANYONE happy. You could maybe even make a good friend. One day in Sunday night church, I looked over in the corner and there was a girl standing in the corner with crutches and what looked like a broken leg. I decided to go and tell her hi! I met her and she was very nice, we started talking and it was cool because she put a smile on her face. Though, I knew she was a visitor and I knew I would probably never see her again, I made a friend for the night!! It was fun, and I hope it will happen again. So, you don't have to do anything fancy to show that you want to talk, or be their friend, or show you care. So go out and meet new people and talk to old friends and have FUN! I guarantee you will!! (Submitted by: Ellie D.,)

Why not try this? Gather a bunch of songs, poetry, stories, or anything else you might think of, and make a tape of you singing, reading, or doing a comedy show, play...etc., for someone special to you. I guarantee they'll LOVE it!!!  I have also made coloring books, and stories for the younger people in my family. (Submitted by Smileyface, )

Every day, try to pray for people you know. Just pray whatever's on your heart. An AWANA leader gave me some good advice about praying that I'd like to pass on. Adoration--praising God for who he is; Confession-- asking forgivness for your sins; Thanksgiving--thank God for His many blessings; Supplication--ask God about your concerns. This is a good form of praying. (Submitted by Susan S. )

I think that going and talking to the older folk at your church makes them feel special to know that you are interested in them. You know, just asking how they are and ask about their family. Also, a cheerful smile when you're walking around helps. I mean, does anyone like seeing someone walking around with a glum expression on their face?? I know that smiles always make me feel better and I've had loads of people smile or say 'hi' or whatever, just because I've smiled at them going past them in the street. (From Fiona S. )

Some girl's moms won't let them cook alot, like mine. I just try to be quiet and do something that I know she will  approve of and that she wants done, like the dishes or the laundry. I also try to keep my sisters from making messes and getting into fights. Try reading or playing with your siblings. Try to make your mom or dad happy and proud of you.  (From Caitlin G. )

I have heard a story that many have heard, but I will tell it now. A girl was walking home from school, and saw a boy in her class looking very troubled. The boy dropped his books, and as he was bending to pick them up, the girl ran across the street and gathered them up for him. As she picked up the last bag for him, a container of pills rolled out. The boy looked embarrassed and quickly remarked that the pills were sleeping pills for his mother who had trouble sleeping. The girl, a devoted Christian, offered to
walk home with him, and as it turned out, they lived on the same block, but he had just moved in. The girl and the boy quickly became the best of friends. The girl shared her faith with him, and he quickly asked God into his heart. After that, he told her that the day he had met her, he was walking home, but stopped by the drugstore and stole the sleeping pills with the intent of over-dosing as soon as he got home. Her single act of kindness, of picking up his books, and walking home with him went straight to his heart, and even saved his life. Things like this can, and do, have the biggest effects on people, and you always must do anything within your power to help those in need.  (From Diane R. )

In the Bible, it says to love everyone - even your enemies. Some people will give you a hard time but if you are nice to them, you might find out why that person acts that way and understand them better. Maybe you'll make a good friend. You could also introduce that person to your friends. If you love everyone you will grow up to be a very understanding person.

If you love animals as much as my younger sister does, then go to your nearest S.P.C.A. or animal shelter. You can do volunteer work, like clean out cages, and walk the dogs. It makes a huge difference in an animal's life, and in your own. (From Alexa J., )

One time when I wanted to do something nice for my parents, I made little coupons. I took pieces of paper and wrote things on them like, good for one back rub or good for breakfast in bed and other things like that. They really liked them too! (Submitted by Rachel)

Why not try cooking for your mother for a week or two. I have tried it and she is extremely happy. It has become a habit so I cook practically every day. I also TRY to lift a load off people in my family. They wonder why I am doing it. My sisters really enjoy sitting in the window seats so I try sometimes to be kind and let them have the window seat. They really appreciate it! (Submitted by Angela P. )

My grandmother lives at an assisted living facility and when we go out to see her a lot of the residents out there are sitting in the living room looking really bored. You should just see how they perk up when my family comes in! The people out there love kids! My two little brothers and myself will go around and hug all the residents sitting in the living room. After we visit my grandmother for awhile, my little brothers and myself sometimes go to some rooms and visit with some of the residents. You should go to an assisted living facility or a nursing home and try some of these things whether or not you have a family member living there. You could REALLY brighten someone's day! (Emily S.,)
 
It doesn't need to be a big, big thing, it could be just a little hug for somebody, or a smile to somebody that needs to be cheered up. Or even giving up your favorite seat at the dinner table for a sibling. It also could be doing chores for somebody that is ill. (Sent by Chelsea, )

You could play with younger siblings. It would give you and them something to do and it will keep them out of your parents' hair. You could also try to make friends with someone that you usually don't associate with or someone new. Don't be afraid to make new friends!  (Submitted by Carrie L.)

Something that you might not think of doing, but makes your siblings feel special is letting them sit in the front seat.  I have three younger siblings and I know that it makes their day to sit in the front, even if it is only for an errand.  Try it!  (Submitted by Jessica R.)

I think something kind you can do for others is to give away your old, nice looking toys that you never use anymore to a shelter. Sure, there are some exceptions, like your first toy, etc. When I give my old toys away, I always think of how someone else who doesn't have much money might love it. (Submitted by Susan S.)

As soon as your dad (or mom) turns in the driveway, run out and meet him/her as he/she pulls in the garage/carport and hug them.  It works.  Mom says that sometimes Dad has a bad day at work and when he comes home, four kids run out of the house and run to hug their Dad. (Submitted by Michelle R.)

When kids at school who aren't popular or the best dressed are getting made fun of or seem like they don't have friends, go out of your way to do something nice for them. (Submitted by Rebekah K. )

Try to hug a family member at least once a day, and also try to say something nice to someone each day. It helps you feel good and warm inside to see someone feel good because you encouraged them! (Submitted by Julie J., )

Pray for everyone.  Every night when I watch the news to catch up with the nation's latest information I pray for the people involved with every story.  I pray for the school bus drivers so they won't slip on the icy roads and the students on the bus that they may be safe.  When I'm talking to my friends, I pray for their wisdom and guidance in my head as we converse because I know God hears every prayer.  It might not seem like much but I truly helps everyone.

Every Wednesday night, and every other eight weeks on Sunday mornings, I work in the church nursery. Since it is volunteer work, not a paying job, they are always short on people. A lady who is in charge of it just told me how much the kids love me and how much help I am. Other people have also told me how appreciated I am. It is wonderful to do things like that! I can bless others as well as the Lord! And I end up getting very blessed myself! (Submitted by Jessica S.)

If your neighbors are having troubles, you can introduce God into their lives.  (Submitted by Courtney W., 

)

Every time a siren goes off I pray for everyone involved, especially the families.  Sometimes my Mom comes to me and asks me to pray with her for people that have to work outside in bad weather.  She says it is dangerous to work in sub-zero weather.  I also pray for people who are handicapped and for people in the hospital.  Mom says it is important because I may be the only person who prays for an individual.  Even one prayer is important because one prayer can do a lot.  Also one word of encouragement can do a lot for a stranger.  Mom told me a story of how God called her and Dad to go to a mall on a Sunday near Christmas.  Though it bothered them to miss the church service, they went.  They met a man to whom my Dad just said "God bless you and Jesus loves you."  The man broke down and told a story of his sick wife and how he didn't think God even cared.  My Dad ministered to this man, even though he never saw or heard from the man again. (Submitted by Esther J.)

Give your next door neighbors fresh baked cookies. (Submitted by Jeanie G.)

I spend my Saturdays working in the Salvation Army, Harvest 2000, places of service like those. I believe that God wants all of us to serve. And you can't believe how blessed I was, when people from those places have come to me and said that I was really touching them! (Submitted by Jessica)

Find a couple of children in the church (to make sure that all the children are treated special, you can get a group of friends together and split all the younger children between you all) and go out of your way to make them feel special. Write them little notes, try to get together with them, and buy or make them little gifts (see the Homemade Fun section of the web site). Encourage them to obey their parents, to share, and love their brothers and sisters. Let them know that you will pray for them - then really do it! To put it simple, show the children the respect and kindness you would like to be shown to you and I am sure you will be blessed! (Submitted by Cherise)

You could send baby clothes to ladies that are trying to decide whether or not to have an abortion. Me and my mom are going to do that and I think that's a good idea. (Submitted by Kristen M.)
I spend some of my extra time writing letters to our soldiers in active duty.  It's a really great way to make new friends and share God's love with people serving us.  If you'd like to do this, you can send a letter to: Any Service Member, Operation Joint Forge, AOP AE 90397-0001; or visit www.opsos.net/opc/opss/to "adopt" a service member for the holidays. This is a really great project to do together with your family.  My brothers, sister, cousins, and I all make and send cards for Christmas to this address, and we're trying to start a letter drive at our school for this project. (Submitted by Abbie S., )

Try to get a pen-pal in another country that is an orphan and write to them. When you write them a letter, it encourages them with their life (it encourages you too) and gives them hope that they can have a family. I have a pen-pal in Africa that is an orphan with 2 sisters and 1 brother. My writing her has given her the hope of having a family. She calls my papa and mama her mama and daddy, and she also calls my siblings her siblings too! I'm glad God used me to help encourage her. What is really great is that my dear, dear papa is considering the possibility of adopting her family!   (Submitted by Amanda C.)

Put other people before yourself. It doesn't sound like much, but it is to the person you do it to. A great example is my sister. Anytime I say I want to go to town (because we live 45 minutes from the biggest town) she would say, "You can go in my place," even though she may want to go just as much or more. (Submitted by Karisa)

If you know someone who isn't in a very good situation, or is lonely, send them cards (at least once a week), or call them. Keep on, and soon that person has a great friend-- YOU!  The Victorian-Style Homemade Cards work very well, and people like homemade cards better than store-bought. (Submitted by Danae C.)

Pray for people that have been mean to you.

You don't have to do anything special.  You can do nice things for people right in your own home!  Just doing little things like making your brother's bed, or serving breakfast in bed to your mom could really make their day!! (Submitted by Katelyn R.)

You can go up to a person who is unkind to you or indifferent to the plan of salvation and act kindly towards them. No matter what they do to you, remain kind and loving, showing how God's love has changed your life.

Go to the nursing home and help clean a patient's room.  You could even take their laundry home and do it for them, instead of them having to send it to the laundry mat at the nursing home.  Or you could just go in and talk to them or take them something special. (Submitted by Heidi H.)

If your friend or someone you know is having a really rough day, invite them over for lunch or just invite them and try to make them smile.  It works!  (Submitted by Micah W.)

 Teach other people about the Lord and help them understand just how wonderful He is.

Smile at everyone you see. Even though you may not be that fond of that person, it might really brighten up their day. (Submitted by Nicole F.)

Pray for missionaries.

You could visit a nursing home and sing to the residents!  They love it!  Or get a some coloring books and color with them and then have some cookies that you made for everybody! (Submitted by Elisabeth Miller)

If it is close to dinnertime and you're all alone in the house, make a list of things that could be done at your home.  Set the table and make dinner, wash the dishes and clean the dining room.  Pick up all the little papers and toys around the house (don't worry, it doesn't have to be your brother's room).  Once I did this and everyone really appreciated it.  The whole time I was thinking of this verse:  Matthew 6:19-21-- "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:  But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:  For where your treasure is, there will you heart be also."  Remember not just giving your tithe and offering lays up your treasure in heaven, but doing acts of kindness does also!  (Submitted by Esther)

If you know that someone is unable to clean their house, fix their supper, or is just lonely, you can make their day by visiting them, cleaning their house, or fixing their supper. God will bless those who lend a hand. Try it!  (Submitted by Katlyn M.)

 Leave a valentine in your mailbox for your mailman (or woman) on Valentines Day. I did - and she gave me a box of chocolates!  (Submitted by Bonnie C.)

If anyone is handicapped, hurt, or disabled, go to their house and cook a meal for them or clean their house or just visit with them to get to know them better.    (Submitted by Casey G.)

You could bring a lonely or elderly person flowers and attach a note along with the flowers -- it could make someone feel special and wanted!  Another thing you could do is ask a friend, neighbor, or relative to come to church with you --  it could be that they want to hear about Jesus because they are in pain (I have a friend like that). Another thing you could do is just say these three simple words "I Love You" -- that will make a person feel special even if they don't show any emotion.  (Submitted by Christina C.)

My great-grandmother recently moved into assisted living and is not happy about it. To make her happy, my cousins and I visit with her, call her on the phone and take her out to lunch. I have also been writing to her weekly about how school has been and what is going on with the family. This makes my nana feel so special. Maybe you know an older lonely person - it doesn't have to be a relative. Try writing to them about your week. It is surprising but for some reason they are extremely interested and amazed by how busy kids lives are in this generation. Try it! You could make someone's day!   (Submitted by Jennifer S.)

Well, this is just a little thing, but when I'm driving around with my parents, I often glance out the window and sometimes notice someone driving alongside us on the road who looks really depressed or like they just could use a little cheering up. I don't spy or anything, but sometimes a quick look is all I need to tell me that that one person, whoever she or he maybe, needs to be touched with the love of God. My prayer for them is always short and to-the-point. "God, I don't know who that person is or what kind of life she (or he) lives. I may never see them again, but please lay your hands on her/him, please bless that person. Even if they already know and love Your Son Jesus, please remind them of your loving care. If not, please send other Christians in their life."   Submitted by Vinay S.

First we have to try to be patient and know not everyone we talk to is going to accept Jesus right then, so we have to pray for them!  Submitted by Natalie W., 

You can bring dinner, cookies, bread, or whatever you would like to someone who has had a family member or friend die, or to someone who just had a baby. They will really appreciate it!  Submitted by Kristina Renee S.,

When your mom is having a bad day and has a lot on her mind, the last thing she needs you to do is to be a tattletale.  When my mom is having a bad day I try to do as much as I can to help her-like cleaning up the kitchen before guests come over.  Submitted by Sarah K.

One way to show an act of kindness, is if someone is down or being tempted by Satan sing him or her a song, or read the Bible with him or her. The Word is our strength, and our sword against the enemy.   Submitted by Heather G.

Hello There My name is Johnny......

One day as I was walking outside, I saw a black little thing with my horses down at the pasture.  Curious,I decided to go check it out. To my surprise it was a small,black little pig. As soon as it saw me, it ran into the woods. Since then, this little pig, which we call now"Johnny" or "Jonnete" hangs out with my horses. His usual time of meeting is early morning and evening. Every morning I would call my horses to come eat. Down at the deep pasture they graze with Johnny by their side. As soon as they see me they run with glee to their feed buckets. Johnny unaware what to come runs with them too, until he sees me. He stops. Stares. Turns around and runs for his life. Though many times I've tried having a civil conversation, he has his mind set to stay away from humans. Him being a wild pig, I understand his dilemma. We have given him some watermelon and corn which he ate in a matter of hours. Some people, and this might be even you thinking on how this little pig would be good bacon. We are blessed with plenty of food, and not planning on being hungry human savages. 

...early morning....

We have a new friend his name is Johnny.He's a black little pig.

......posing for the camera....

SER.(story end reminder) The story was meant to be some-what humorous. Not to be taken too seriously. :)



Ashleigh

Gardening and it's fruits.....

  Some might wonder why we would want to garden today when we have an abundance of grocery stores stocked full of food. Gardening is very thrifty and quite educational. All they require is some time and effort. Freshly grown  produce is much more tasty and usually more nutritious than commercial produce. You may also like to to learn how to preserve foods for winter by canning,dehydrating, or freezing them. 


It is an enriching, educational experience to garden, and it is also great fun! There is nothing like reaping crops that you have nurtured yourself. A nice feature of gardening is that,not only do we enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, but we also have a first hand opportunity to see God's hand at work.


Did you know? 
  Did you know that tomatoes,squash,cucumbers and pumpkins are fruit? The dictionary defines fruit as a part of a plant that grows from a flower and contains one or more seeds. A vegetable is any part of a plant that is customarily eaten and does not come from a flower. Edible roots,leaves, and stems are vegetables. 


Helpful Websites on How to Start a Garden of your own:
http://www.startingagarden.net/
http://www.ehow.com/how_17942_start-garden.html
http://www.bargaineering.com/articles/tips-starting-garden.html
http://www.ehow.com/list_6621708_fun-gardening-ideas.html




We started the garden this year with new rich soil that we purchased. The fun part is going to the store  and picking out your plants. We planted strawberries,pole beans, squash,zucchini, cucumber, most herbs, tomatoes, bell peppers, hot peppers, red and white onions, sweet melon, watermelon. (Also, on the side we have since last year 2 Apple trees, 1plum tree, 1peach tree, and pomegranate bush.) At first, our garden looked pathetic and sad. We figured that the soil we bought was burning some of the plants do to to much of one chemical. (Plants are picky too! :)  Now, everything is growing wild. We have a above ground hand build wooden garden. 4 decent size boxes. Accept the pole beans sadly all dyed, at the end we figured they needed a very special condition, that wasn't being met. 


Out basil have grown like crazy. 2 green bushes! Everything else is doing great! Our zucchini,squash,cucumber,watermelon, melon is growing to big for the garden, as it creeps out into the yard with it's whiskers. 


Today as I walked outside to peak once again at the garden I researched on melons and how to tell if they are ripe. We have at least 20 melons growing and maturing. Since the greenery was overwhelming I tried finding some of the bigger melons. 


How to tell if a melon is ripe:


1. You can tump it- and if it's hollow it's ripe!
2. The center of the melon or the belly bottom as some call it on the very top- when you gently with your fingers press it and it's just a tad squishy- guess what?....it's ripe.
3. The melon will have a yellow to yellowish color to it
4 Finally, the smell! The best sweet,delicious, smell of a ripe melon!
(This works at the store when your buying your melons/cantaloupe)




I found one! It was half yellow and it smelled so good! I was so so excited!

Our ripe melon!

It was amazing! There is nothing like fresh, picked fruit!

Bless the Lord Oh My Soul!

                                            Psalm 103:1-5
Bless the Lord oh my Soul and all that is within me bless His holy name!
Bless the Lord of my Soul and forget not all His benefits
Who forgives all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases,
Who redeems your life from destruction,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies.
Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your
youth is renewed like the eagle's.



Do you every talk to yourself? They say it's ok as long as you don't answer.
What a better thing to do then tell you soul to bless the Lord?
Tell your soul:

"Soul, Bless the Lord! ...all that is within you bless His holy name!"

I love this verse. God is a truly amazing God! He crowns us, sinners and  worms, with lovingkindness and tender mercies. Thank you dear Jesus, and may my soul always praises and blesses you!

Bless the Lord oh my soul!

His word sharper then  a two-edged sword! 

Prayer Requests for the week...

June 2011 SCRIPTURE VERSE Thirst in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. — Proverbs 3:5 PRAISES AND PRAYER REQUESTS GUATEMALA Praise God for the KVNE team’s ministry in Guatemala City to children in orphanages and from the city dump.  The team shared the Gospel, provided crafts, snacks and Bible stories to hundreds of children!  Click on this link to see a video of the trip.    Praise also for the WOW Family team who just returned from Guatemala and also served children both in Guatemala City and at Cerecaif orphanage. Click here to read about this trip on our blog. We have two teams leaving next week. Fellowship Bible, fromNashville, will be serving both in the city and also at Cerecaif orphanage doing projects and working with the children in the orphanages. MacArthur Boulevard will be serving in the Cerre de Oro community, outside of Santiago, Guatemala. They will be sharing the gospel with families in need and children in the community. Please pray for the Lord’s protection, for health and to make an impact for the Lord while there. HONDURAS  Proverbs SchoolContinue to pray for the families and children in the school, that the help offered by the group of psychologists would take deep root and have lasting effects in the families. Also, praise for the way God is already moving in the families, as all of the mothers have communicated about how great a difference their child's behavior has been in the house. AFEPray for the two teams coming in July, a group of students from theDFW area and a group from Trash Mountain Project, that they would have a lasting impact on the children and people they interact with and the Lord would use them as a method to share the Love of Christ and the Word of God. Also pray for the Lord's protection over them and their travels. Pray for the students at AFE as they continue to face all the difficulties that come with growing up in the dump community and the pressures they face to drop out of school and continue to work in the dump. INDIA Please continue to pray for Samson as he creates a Biblical curriculum for Orphan Outreach to use with the orphanages and teams. Pray for wisdom as he works with the orphanages and puts together materials  to provide an educational and spiritual program for them. LATVIA Day Center – Liepaja Please continue to pray for the children at the Naval Port. They have enjoyed a wonderful summer camp provided by faithful donors to the Latvia program.  You can see photos of their time at camp by clicking on the following linkhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfKfXBo7YOk RUSSIA Orphan Graduate Program- Saint Petersburg Thank you for praying for Nastya and her daughter Paulina. They both are home safe and healthy. Nastya has inherited an apartment from her mother, where she now lives, but it has a debt of $1,700 for not paying communal fees. She can lose the apartment if she doesn't either pay it back or prove that the debt was collected while she was at the orphanage. She has a lawyer to help her with this but she needs $300 to pay for the paperwork. Please pray for her to work through this issue and for provision of the funds she needs. Sasha’s vision situation has gotten worse. He feels pain when looking at light and needs to get further tests done, but they are expensive. Please pray for his healing and for provision for him. One of our University students, Aleksey, failed a Math exam.  He has another chance to pass it so please pray for him. Pray for summer jobs for the graduates, as they all are struggling financially. Please pray for the new graduates who will join us in September.  Pray for the Lord’s wisdom and guidance as we determine which graduates will  join our program. Please also pray that the Lord would change the attitudes of these children. They can be happy to receive but so slow to give back. It has been hard for them to learn to change the mentality they have of being given things in the orphanage and that they need to learn how to appreciate things.   Evangelism Ministry Please pray for the interns while they spend time with the kids at #2, Loopokhinka, Nikolsky and the Crisis Center and tell the children about God's love! Pray for the team from Grand Parkway Church who will be traveling to Russia tomorrow and for their time of outreach to the kids in Loopokhinka and Nikolsky.  Please pray for good health and protection for all the summer teams, interns, and staff during this time with the kids. Pray for God's protection for the children during the summer while they are at camp.  Please Pray for Sarahi Maradiaga Rodriguez Marquez, 10, in Honduras Sarahi is a sociable, fun-loving girl who sometimes has a hard time sitting down to study. She has a pleasant, friendly disposition and gets along well with everyone she encounters.    Sarahi came to AFE when she was in Kindergarten, when AFE first had classes underneath trees in a field. Now she can learn more effectively in a desk in her classroom. Sarahi lives in a small shack with her extended family in a nearby slum community. Her father supports the family by collecting cloth in the garbage dump to resell.    Someday, Sarahi hopes that she can work in the law profession and not labor in the garbage dump. Pray that she would grow in the knowledge of the Lord and for her education so that her dreams may come true.