God is in Control

I can admit I am a bit of a control freak. I like to know exactly what is going to happen in advance with no negative surprises. I want to do God's will but I want Him to let me know in advance what His plan is and exactly how to get there. It does not exactly work like that though. Not an easy thing to accept for us control freaks.
3 months ago I would have never said we would be where we are now. The thought of Farmingdale Baptist Church merging somehow to becoming Crossroads Church of Long Island did not seem like a good idea. All I had heard were the negatives of so called church mergers.....and we were supposed to be "planting" and in Levittown, not Farmingdale.
There again, I forgot to remember that God is in control. He gives us a road map but we forget that He can change the direction, location, and speed at any time. We have to continue walking and seeking every day, ready for His next signal. God had a plan for Long Island long before NAMB, or FBC Katy, or The Edwards came into the picture. He saw a great church in Katy willing to support financially and send God's man to Long Island as pastor. They chose a strategic location in Long Island.....Levittown. God saw a precious flock of His struggling in Farmingdale, a church body doing everything they knew to do to stay afloat. A group of devoted faithful followers giving their all. Little did we know that God would answer two prayers by uniting us together to win Long Island for Christ.
FBC Katy and The Edwards thought Levittown and if it were not for sending us to Levittown, we would not have met some amazing individuals interested in the gospel.....who happen to be able to commute better to Farmingdale. God is good. Farmingdale is actually 4.3 miles from Levittown, (in the 5 mile radius FBC Katy planned to reach)
Farmingdale had looked at many different options but none of them God's plan.
Over the past 3 months God began opening doors we never thought possible. We began seeking His will on this matter and not our own. He began giving us a vision and a great love for the flock of Farmingdale. Not by accident...but by grace and His divine plan. We love the people so much and they love us. I can not put into words how much they already mean to us. They are special. Immediate family. They are excited about all God is going to do in the future as Farmingdale Baptist Church closes its door and they become charter members of Crossroads Church of Long Island. There is an excitement that is so refreshing and so encouraging. You have to come visit to experience it because we just can not explain in words how much God is in this place. Fresh Wind Fresh Fire!
We know it won't all be easy. But when you know you are in the will of God, then you can count on His strength and wisdom to carry you through any circumstance.
God called us to Long Island to reach the lost and begin a new church. We made a different turn than initially expected, but the road map is still the same.

Macy's Santa Clause!

My favorite Christmas movie is the 1947 classic Miracle on 34th street. When I was little I remember watching it and thinking how amazing it would be to meet the Santa Clause at the famous New York City Macy's Department Store. I had no idea until this week just how extravagant visiting Santa at Macy's really is! It is truly unbelievable. It is like a ride at Disney World...without the ride....if that makes any sense. You entered a door that looks like the entrance to Santa's Workshop. The pathway leading to Santa Clause is amazingly decorated. Giant decorated Christmas trees, a life size Santa Sleigh filled with toys, polar bears ice skating, reindeer's eating, a train that circled all the way to the top of a Christmas tree, and elves greeting you at every point! It is a winter wonderland. The girls loved it! Sterling and I loved it just as much! It was so much fun and so unlike any other Santa visit I have ever seen! We went on the perfect day! No long lines. I want my niece and nephew to see it so much, but I can not imagine how long the wait will be the weekend of Christmas! We will definitely have to try!

Missionary Kid!

Growing up in church, I spent a lot of time learning about Missionary Kids in GA class. I remember our class making cards for them during the holiday season. It is hard for us to think of ourselves as missionaries. We are not in a foreign country.......although Long Island is somewhat foreign than what we are used to. We have given up some things to be here, but not anywhere near what most missionaries give up. We are not risking our lives or putting ourselves in danger like some missionaries do. None the less, we are considered church planting missionaries. That makes Madison and Emma MK's!
Over the past two weeks, Madison has received 12 letters from across the US, from other kids expressing their thanks for her and encouraging her as a MK. Decorated and handmade cards and letters from kids her own age. It has been so neat and so unexpected. NAMB did an article on Madison last month and I guess that is how churches have the information about her. The letters all came from kids who are apart of a missions organization in their church. California, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina to name a few. Madison......as she put it..........is very popular!
It has been a great encouragement for her and a reminder as to why she is here! She will replying back to each of the girls this month!
Continue to pray for Madison to be light!

Family Fun!

We had a wonderful time at Mamaw and Papaw's house! My sister Taryn, and brother in law Jeff, and my niece, Anne Blye came as well. We had not seen them since June, so it was great to be with them. Madison and Anne Blye were so sad to say goodbye but thankfully Christmas is right around the corner. Actually, Anne Blye wants to move to New York. She said her grandparents could come visit her, because she just wants to live by Madison! :). Madison is happy that Anne Blye and Edie love to visit her!
We also got to see my Aunt Linda and cousins Billy and Cathy. It is always nice catching up! Sterling and Jeff went bowling with Billy and his girlfriend Nikki. They are no match for Billy when it comes to bowling, but I think Jeff won one game!
For anyone who knows Sterling, he loves playing games on play station! He does not play as much as he used to, but he catches up on lost time when he is with Jeff. Jeff always wins, but Sterling still loves it! Jeff actually brought his 32" TV with him to Louisville, so that they could set it up in the basement to play! Now, that is commitment to quality time with your brother in law :).

Giving Thanks!

At this very moment, we are traveling through Ohio. You have to love technology today. Internet service anywhere, anytime. We left Long Island yesterday afternoon to head for Louisville, Kentucky. We took Madison out of school early and decided to go ahead and drive halfway, which is Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was our first time to drive off the Island, since moving there. It is beautiful. All the beautiful bridges, mountains of trees, 3 rivers of Pittsburgh, and cool tunnels. The drive through downtown Pittsburgh is beautiful! We are excited about traveling home, because it will be daylight on the way back when we pass through there.
This morning we did not drive far past Pittsburgh before we saw the welcome sign to West Virginia. The parts that we saw were so amazing. All of the houses were in clusters far below the interstate. They were so close together.....even more so than Long Island. I guess similar to Queens. They were all different bright colors and looked like colonial houses. I felt like I wanted to reach out the window and pick one up. It was like pieces on a game board if you can imagine. The mountain areas are beautiful and I can only imagine how beautiful they were a month ago before the leaves fell off.
Emma loves the leaves! But she does not like that they have fallen off. She looks out the front door at home and says she is about to cry for the leaves!
The drive through West Virginia was over before we knew it, and we entered Ohio. We will be in Ohio until we reach Kentucky.
We have never been in the North East, except for New York of course, and so it has been so amazing to just drive through Pennsylvania and West Virginia. We will have to come back to visit. But, I definitely want to see Boston and Washington D.C. first.
We are 3 hours out of Louisville and we are excited. There is nothing like going to Mamaw and Papaw's. My parents and sister live in Alabama, but I was not raised there, so it is not my home. I spent a good portion of my days in Texas, but I still would not call Texas home. I was born in Louisville and lived around the corner from my grandparents for 10 years. So many wonderful memories at their house and our church home. I was saved and baptized in my church home in Louisville. But more than anything, I love being with my Mamaw and Papaw. I could not begin to describe how much they mean to me. They are faithful followers of Christ. Growing up, I always thought they were perfect. No one could say anything to change my mind. As I got older I learned they were not perfect, because no one is. We all have flaws. We all make mistakes. But, you know what? They are still perfect in my eyes. They have always been my number one fan. Never critical, always making me feel the very best about myself. My Papaw is a godly man, who walks with the Lord daily. My Mamaw is a true servant. Never have I been around them that I do not see them having their time in the word. They have given us an amazing legacy and I pray I can always be as faithful as the example they have set before me.
I am thankful for so much this year. Our move to Long Island, Sterling becoming a pastor, our family and friends............but something God has been showing me lately is how thankful I am to have grown up in a christian home. I have a mom and dad who have always loved me more than anything. A mom and dad who raised me in a home where God came first. A mom and dad who did nightly devotions with me and my sister. A mom and dad who took me to the church every time the door was open. A mom and dad who were also at the church every time the door was open. A dad who teaches Gods word to others, and a mom who reaches out to others and encourages them. A mom and dad who push through adversity no matter how painful the trial may be. A mom and dad who continue to grow in the knowledge of the Lord every day. You do not realize growing up just how wonderful your parents are until you have your own children. I am thankful for a mom and dad who trained up a child in the way she should go.............and now that I am old.........I have not departed from it. Thank you mom and dad for being all you are to me. I love you with a deeper love and appreciation than I did before.
God is so faithful. Thinking about His goodness and all He has done for me and mine, reminds me once again that it's all about grace.............Amazing grace how sweet the sound!
Happy Thanksgiving to all our family and friends!

Reunions!

I have had a reunion of many kinds lately! This weekend my family on my Dad's side is having a reunion. Reunions are always fun! A chance to catch up with people you have not seen in a long time. I would love to be there with my mom and dad at my grandparent's house especially. But, it just did not work out for us. However, God has made it possible for us to drive to Louisville for Thanksgiving! Anytime I can go home to my Mamaw and Papaw's house is a treat! But, Thanksgiving is even better! I am so excited!
Another reunion this past weekend was not the kind I enjoy. I received an email from classmates.com trying to get me to join for my next high school reunion. I was not interested in the offer, but I did check to see if my favorite teacher was on the list! Chuck Bennett! He was my choir director my sophomore, junior, and senior year. He was new to Richardson High School that year, just like the rest of us sophomores. The choir program was the pits compared to the rest of the district, and it was his job to turn it around. He was the best teacher I ever had. He was not just a teacher, but a friend and encourager. He had a 3 yr. old daughter, Victoria, who I adored. She and I became very close! I loved kids so much and I loved spending time with her especially because she was so precious. I remember taking her to see the premier of "The Little Mermaid" the day it came to the theatre the first time. Mr. Bennett made a huge impact on my life, one that not too many people even realize. I visited him a few times after graduating but lost touch eventually. I have tried to find him many times over the years because I wanted him to know how much he and his family meant to me. I never had any luck. When I got the classmates email, I thought I would try again. When I googled his name and some info I knew about him, I found a web page from North Texas University listing his name on the "Friends We'll Miss" list. I was shocked and in disbelief. I thought it could not be him. I researched the Houston Chronicle, where he last lived, and found an obituary. On April 11, of 2001, he was driving to work (choir teacher still), and was broadsided while running a red light. He was killed instantly. It broke my heart. More than anything, I think I felt so sad because I found out 5 years too late. I wish I had stayed in touch and had known so that I could have been at his memorial. I spoke to someone who told me they had to have two memorial services for him in order to hold the 1000's of people who attended. I am not surprised because he was a wonderful christian man, father, and teacher. I will always remember Mr. Bennett.
God is good at bringing laughter from sorrow! After hearing of Mr. Bennett's death, I looked up some old friends from my church youth group in Richardson. I was able to find David and Shannon Dugger, and it was good catching up and hearing how God is working in their lives. Another friend of ours, Julie Morgan, got my contact info from the Dugger's and emailed me today. She filled me in on so many of our friends from church. It was great to hear from her. We talked about planning a class of '91 Youth Group Reunion next year! She is going to gather every one's contact info so we can set a date! I am very excited to catch up with everyone and see what God is doing around them. What a wonderful reunion that will be!

Fun Fall Pictures of my Favorite People!

Courtesy of Bryan! Thanks Bryan for everything!

*Jenna

Full House!

We have a busy weekend ahead of us! Bryan is arriving this afternoon from Katy, Texas. He is on staff at FBC Katy, which is our sponsor church. He is responsible for making Sterling's business cards, all our advertisement, and the wonderful post cards for the Joe Tanner Event. He is coming up to help Sterling continue to pass them out and help in any other way he can. Sterling is planning on going to Passion with him in January. He will be here through Monday. We are glad he is here. My wonderful friend Mandy, from UBC in Clear Lake, is coming tomorrow and staying through Tuesday! I am so excited for her visit. She worked with Sterling in the student ministry at Clear Lake. She is very special to us! She is coming to help us with whatever needs we have and to just spend time together. (We are hoping to persuade her to move here very soon :)!) Joe Tanner of course arrives on Monday to get ready for the Astronaut event on Tuesday and Wednesday! He is speaking at Madison's school on Wednesday. Her teacher is so excited. And Madison feels very special that Mr. Joe is coming to her class. She hopes Mr. Pat can come someday to her school as well. When Emma got her shot at the doctor this week, I explained to the doctor that Emma did not like bandaids. Emma quickly told the doctor that Mr. Pat had princess bandaids for her at his house! She misses her Mr. Pat! We are also happy to have another Emma visiting us this weekend. We met Emma at the North American Mission Board Interview. She is a student missionary with NAMB in Manhattan. We grew very fond of her in a short time. She is so sweet and has a wonderful heart for the Lord. She is coming on Saturday for dinner and to meet Mandy and Bryan! Busy weekend....Busy week ahead.....lots of opportunities....lots of fun! Keep us all in your prayers!

Trick or Treat?!

Halloween is a very celebrated event in Levittown. At noon, kids were released from school to go home for lunch, change into costumes, and then return to school for a parade and party the remainder of the day! Yards are decorated as much as people in Texas decorate for Christmas. In all the cities I have lived....13 now counting Levittown....I have never seen so much emphasis on Halloween. It is no secret that I am not a fan of Halloween for many reasons. I could so easily get on a soap box right now....but I won't. At the same time.....I am not against candy and costumes and having fun.....so that's what we did! Madison dressed as Hannah Montana and looked so cute! Emma was Dumbo and was adorable! Madison's parade and party at school was a lot of fun! It was so wonderful to meet all of her classmates and get to know them better. Each one of her classmates is precious and so sweet! The party started with a parade outside the school in the big field. The entire school paraded down a marked path for all the parents to see! The music from "Ghostbusters" was playing from a loud speaker. It was funny! I got to meet and spend a lot of time talking to 3 other mothers I had not met before. They were so nice! Madison and Emma had their well check ups after school. Madison had to get 2 shots and Emma just got the flu shot! When we got home at 4:30, kids were everywhere on the street. There must have been 150-200 kids walking just down our street. This was Emma's first time trick or treating. She was so funny! The first house we went to, she rang the bell and as soon as the lady opened the door she started telling them all about her bandaids from the doctor and that she was Dumbo! The lady laughed so hard that she choked on her food. Emma talked non stop to every person we saw. She was so cute and she was thrilled about getting candy! She did not want to go home! This was a great opportunity to meet many of our neighbors down the street. We had a fun day today! I still do not like Halloween and what I believe it represents........but I know God provided amazing opportunities for me today because of Halloween. God is good that way!

Autumn in New York!

We love walking outside to the view of the large tree in our front yard. The entire tree is covered with vibrant orange and yellow leaves. The tree lined streets are beautiful! Red, yellow, and orange leaves, with a breath taking blue sky as the back drop. It is amazing to see God's glory as the season changes.

Team Day!

This week has been Red Ribbon Week at Madison's school. In order to promote learning and fun, each day the kids were asked to wear a specific thing to school. Today was "Team Day". Students were supposed to wear something that showed their favorite sports team! Madison was so excited because she knew exactly what team she wanted to show off proudly......The Yankees! As much as she loves the Houston Astros for her daddy.....she says she is now a total New York Girl! When choosing between the Mets or Yankees.....it is hands down Yankees for Madison and I! Sweet Emma likes them all! Sterling on the other hand is still undecided.....although I believe he leans more towards the Mets. I have to say though, if the Yankees had fired Coach Joe Torre after their sad season end, I might of had to join the Mets band wagon as well. I am a Torre fan! My Dad and Grandfather, ("Poppy & Papaw") have been lifelong Yankees fans! Madison knows how much her Poppy loves them, so she naturally has cheered for them since she was very little! She also loves the fact that her teacher is a huge Yankees fan! It makes it a lot easier to be a Yankees fan now that we live in New York.....but Sterling and I will always be Astro fans at heart!

Growl Power!

Last night Madison and I went to The Cheetah Girls Concert at Nassau Coliseum! It was a sold out concert. We were lucky to have been able to purchase pre-sale tickets online before they sold out, and ticket brokers raised the prices. Some tickets after that point were actually selling for $700. That's CRAZY! I only paid $26 per ticket and I so assumed our seats were probably not so hot! But, they were great seats. You can tell from the picture that we were just to the right of center stage, right above the floor seats!
On the way to the concert, Madison told me she bet people would be screaming their lungs out and that it would probably be louder than her lunch room at school. :) She was right.....the screaming never stopped! Madison had the best time! I have never seen so many mothers and daughters in one place before! Girls of all ages decked out in their cheetah girl attire! Mothers dressed head to toe in cheetah! Growl Power is an understatement! Vanessa Anne Hudgens, from High School Musical, opened up the concert! I have no idea how the girls could even begin to sing on stage with all the dancing they were doing. They definitely know how to get their young fans excited! Glow Sticks swaying from side to side and confetti falling from the ceiling! As Madison and millions of other girls would say............it was Cheetahlicious!

Emma at the Dentist!

Emma had her first trip to the dentist this past week! She was so excited! All she knew was her big sister went to the dentist and came back with 4 prizes and a new toothbrush! Emma loves to brush her teeth......I think mainly because it involves playing in the water :). When we got to the dentist, the lady talked to her about each thing she was going to do to Emma's mouth. She showed her "Mr. Thirsty", which is the tool that suctions out the saliva in your mouth :). Emma got to hold it and suction out her own mouth....and boy did she ever! When it came time to let actually clean her teeth....well Emma did not care for that very much. She kept on sticking in "Mr. Thirsty", trying to keep the cleaning tool out of her mouth! It was pretty amusing to watch! Finally her teeth were sparkling, and it was time for the fluoride treatment. She got one good swipe of it, and that was it! Emma refused to open up anymore...even for "Mr. Thirsty". Finally it was prize time! She picked 4 things out of the basket, and then told the lady that her sister needed one also. And the lady asked her if she always told her sister what she wanted. She said "Who is the boss, you or your sister?" And Emma said "Mommy is!" I was very proud to see she has actually been listening to me lately, because we have been working on who the boss in our house is........because most of the time Emma thinks she is! Anyway, the dentist came to check her teeth out and just could not get over how precious Emma was. She could not believe a 3 year old would talk so much. Emma asked the dentist all kinds of questions and chatted up a storm. The dentist sat there chatting with Emma for 5 minutes. It was very cute! Always an adventure!

Our First Broadway Show!

We had a blast this weekend! We all hung out and relaxed on Friday night. But, on Saturday morning at 9am, we headed out on the train for an exciting day in Manhattan. We had no idea just how much fun it would be.
Anita, my sister in law, almost did not come because she came down with a bad cold. She felt miserable, and it is cold here.....compared to Houston anyway. We all felt so bad for her, because it was hard for her to enjoy everything feeling so sick. But, I am so glad she came. It would not have been the same without her!
We started the day in Times Square at the Hershey Store! Free Hershey Kisses and Take 5 candy bars were delicious.....especially to Miss Emma.....who had it all over her hands! We then went to the famous Toys R Us! Aunt Anita took all the girls on the Ferris Wheel and they rode the "Little Tykes" Car! They had so much fun! We were in there for over an hour.
We had to eat quickly so we could get to our main attraction of the day..........."Beauty and the Beast" on Broadway! This was all of our first time to ever see a Broadway show....except for Melanie. It was more than we ever expected.....like a mini vacation from the world! We all love the story of Beauty and the Beast, but even better was that Donny Osmond recently began playing the role of "Gaston". I grew up watching Donny and Marie.....even had the Donny and Marie Barbie Dolls! Always fun to throw a celebrity in the mix of a Manhattan trip......no matter who the celebrity is.
Two amazing things happened at the show! First, we were sitting in our seats, which were pretty good! We got orchestra tickets, 25th row, right of center stage for 40% off the ticket price. But, the amazing part happened when two grandparents walked up to us with their 4 or 5 year old grand daughter, asking if we would trade seats with them because their grand daughter was afraid to sit to close to the stage. They only had three seats and we had 7, so my mother in law took Madison and my niece Edie and ended up sitting 5th row center stage! Wow! They were so excited! Confetti fell all over them at the end of the song "Be Our Guest". The second amazing thing was getting my picture taken with Donny Osmond after the show! He was sick and we were told he was only coming out for a few autographs and then would go back in. He came out, and every woman above the age of 40 was screaming madly! (and a few younger ones :)!) It was pretty funny! He signed a few autographs and then they said he had to go, and everyone screamed one more! And that lucky last one was Madison! As he turned around to leave, Melanie asked him to please take a picture and so very quickly Anita took a picture of Melanie and I with Donny! He was behind a short curtain rod so we had to lean back! It was so funny and so much fun! Donny is certainly not the heart throb of my generation, like he is for my mother in law :), but it was so much fun to see him up close and get a picture with him! He was wonderful as "Gaston"! Definitely added a lot to the show!
Sterling met us for dinner after the show, and then we headed home on the train about 7:30. We were all exhausted, especially Anita, but we had so much fun! My best Manhattan trip yet! Thank you Melanie, Granna, Anita, and Edie for coming and making such wonderful memories with us!! Fun Pictures below!
From the left:

Anita, Jenna, Edie, Granna, Madison, and Emma in Times Square!

Edie, Madison, and Emma at the train station!






















Excited Emma awaiting Belle and the Beast! Edie and Madison at the Theatre!



Jenna, Donny, and Melanie after the show!
Can you tell we were a little excited? :)

Company is Coming!

We are excited for the weekend ahead! On Thursday night, Melanie Hoo, from Clear Lake, is coming to stay with us through Monday! She is a sophomore at Baylor University. She is very special to our family. She was one of those amazing babysitters I spoke of in the last blog. But, she is so much more than that.....especially to me. We are going to have a wonderful time catching up and having lots of girl talk on the couch....just like old times!
We are also thrilled to have family arriving on Friday afternoon through Sunday morning. (short but sweet) My mother in law Cherrie a.k.a. "Granna", my sister in law Anita, and my niece Edie are coming! Madison is counting down the days for Edie to get here, Emma is counting down the days for her Granna to get here, and I am counting down the days for Anita to get here! :) I love spending time with my sister in law. She is absolutely amazing! A beautiful wife and mother and a wonderful friend. She is so easy to talk to and is always such an encouragement to me. I wish we lived closer! Madison is so excited to take Edie to Manhattan to see the Toys R Us with the giant ferris wheel! The last time we left Houston, Emma was very sad because she did not want to leave her Granna. So, Granna decided she could not wait until Christmas to see us again! We are very happy and thankful for that! We will have a full house this weekend! Lots of pictures and fun to share with you after the weekend!
Jenna

Back to School Night

Last night, I attended Back to School Night at Northside Elementary School. This event was not intended for children, so Sterling stayed home with Madison and Emma. We were spoiled by our now college students from Clear Lake when it came to babysitters. Not only did they adore our girls, and our girls adore them, but they babysat for FREE! They are amazing girls, and we look forward to them visiting us in New York, so Sterling and I can go on a date! (Just Kidding Girls!) Anyway, I was the lucky one who got to visit Madison's classroom. I enjoyed being there so much. I even got to sit at Madison's desk while Mrs. Leung went over important details of the class and school year. Madison had neatly cleaned her desk that afternoon, before leaving school. And a booklet she had made was sitting on top, entitled "Back to School Book". One of the pages was "All About This School Year". She had to write about several of her favorite things about school. I thought I would share them with you, because they were so cute! Of course like a lot of kids, she thinks her favorite subject so far is "GYM"! Her favorite lunch is soup. (she was very excited to take a thermos of soup to school!) She said this year she wants to learn about science.......but most of all what she really wants is to "do hard math"! Her favorite place in school is Art Class. And last, but not least, she responded to the statement In school, it would be very strange if: "Somebody yelled!" :). I really like Mrs. Leung. She is very structured and organized, and loves to read. She is very big on the kids understanding how important it is to be a good reader. She also wants them to understand, every grade on every test and paper will not be 100%. No one is perfect. The most important thing is mastering the subject....which she considers 80% or higher. They do not receive letter grades on Report Cards. Instead they are scored developmentally on a scale of 1-4. Different from what I remember, but I like it much better......because Madison is already concerned about making an F! :) I assure her she won't, but this makes it even better. The best thing I like about Mrs. Leung is the way she deals with behavior. Every Friday, grades 2-5 have Fun Time Friday the last hour of school. The criteria to participating is you must have all your classwork from the week done, all your homework done and brought back, and of course behaved in class. There are a few rules that automatically mean no Fun Time Friday if broken.....one being misbehaving during emergency drills. Madison came home last week saying how sad it was that a certain classmate was the only one who did not get to go to Fun Time Friday from her class. She went on to tell me that they had an emergency drill in the school, in which they are to be silent. Apparently the teacher left the room for a minute, when this classmate yelled out "Fire! Teachers gone! Ya hoo!" :) I laughed and laughed at that story. Anyway, that was an automatic rule breaker with no warning. After I stopped laughing, I asked what the boy did. Madison said "He was very sad just sitting there instead of going to Fun Time Friday." Then she added, "It is not Mrs. Leung's fault". "It was his choice to make." (Something Mrs. Leung always says). I was very impressed to hear her say that, and even more impressed at how Mrs. Leung is teaching her. I reminded Madison how much that applied to our entire life. How God gives us free will, and we always have a choice to make....right or wrong.....and that our choices determine our consequences. Now I hear Madison telling Emma whenever Emma does something wrong, that she makes her choices. I love it! I pray so much for Madison to make wise choices. Sorry for such a long blog, but I had a lot to share. Continue to pray for Madison, Mrs. Leung, her classmates, their families and her school. Thank you! God is so good to me.

Madison's First Game!

Madison had a blast at her first game! Emma loved the game because there were stairs and poles to climb on at the stadium. Although the Levittown Red Devils did not have a victory, we had a great time watching Madison cheer!

Curious Emma!

Emma is fascinated by the fact that God made everything. There are certain things she has learned and is confident God made. Things like the sky, trees, flowers, and people. Then there are other things she loves to question us about. Things like her baby doll, special toys, our house. She is always very serious when she is questioning us about such matters. Very precious and so innocent. Today was one of the most precious (and funniest) questions yet. I was cleaning the bathroom this morning, while she was playing barbies in her room. She walked in just as I was finishing. Curious as always, she climbed up on the toilet seat lid, with her knees facing the tank. She looked at me very seriously, while pointing to the gold writing behind the toilet seat lid. (the toilet companies name) She said "Did God make this?" I laughed and realized that in her mind, God made everything....including our toilet. And so naturally she wondered if God was the one who wrote on it as well! I explained to her that God made the person who made the toilet, and the people who made it put there name on it. "She said "Oh!" and then she went on to ask me about all the other fixtures in the bathroom. :) She always make me laugh.....but more than anything... it thrilled my heart for Emma to be so curious about my God. God is good.

An Adorable Moment!

Emma and I love to walk to pick Madison up from school. Yesterday, as we were just turning the corner onto our street, we saw the school bus dropping off some kids. A few seconds later we heard someone yell "Madison!". I looked across the street, and there stood a young boy wearing a Red Devils Football jersey. (Which is the team Madison cheers for) He was making a silly face with his hands on each cheek. The young boy then looked back over and waved at Madison with this bashful like grin. Madison smiled and waved back quickly.....a little embarrassed her mom had just seen that. :) It was adorable! She then told me his name was Hunter and their desks were in the same group in class. I could not help but just smile and think to myself what it will be like when Madison no longer sees boys as something yucky!

You Are Our Mission!

Last Sunday night I saw the movie "World Trade Center." I saw it with my good friend Carl Novian, who was in New York visiting us last weekend. The movie was intense. I liked it.
There was one part of the movie that has stayed in my mind everyday this week. When the two Marines hear the sounds coming from the rubble and make contact with our two main characters; one of the soldiers says: "We are the United States Marines, you will be okay; you are our mission."
I know that it sounds so cliche to say that "our life is a mission trip". But, this week I am constantly aware that as I go out and as I meet people, "they" are our mission.
It's easy to get caught up the fact that we are trying to start a church. It's easy to get bogged down in details. It's hard some days to stay focused. Sometimes, we want to see more progress being made. Sometimes, we question if we are doing things right. Sometimes, we wonder if we should be doing more. Other times, we wonder if we should be doing less. But, the fact of the matter is that Jesus was all about people. "They" were His mission. That is what I really want to be about.
At our Bible study this past Monday night, we talked about the simplicity of the gospel. Love the Lord God with all of your heart and love your neighbor as yourself. It sounds so simple. Why do I make it so complicated? I'm not sure why. But, I want to focus on THE Mission.

Sterling

Believable!

Madison loves listening to people who have a strong New York accent. She is already a New Yorker at heart. She especially loves greeting people with a kiss on each cheek. She would love for her friends accent to rub off on her eventually. Who knows? As hard as she tries to copy them, it just might. :) But as for now, she still speaks like a Texan. Madison's favorite friend so far is Jessica. She spends the most time with Jessica because their desks are in the same group. She was telling me all about Jessica last night before bed, and how much Jessica makes her laugh. She went on to tell me the cutest thing Jessica said to her yesterday. Madison was talking and as a true southerner, she kept saying "ya'll". Jessica looked at her and said "I just love the way you say ya'll". Madison then told her "I have to quit saying that", but must have said it again, because Jessica said "you just said it again!" Madison thought it was the funniest thing. Although it was very cute & funny, to me it was so very precious & sweet. Such a simple exchange of words between friends touched my heart in such a big way. But, that is exactly why........my baby has a special friend! God is good just doesn't say enough. God gives us so much more than we could ever hope for or imagine. HE is unbelievable! I like the way my friend Steve Pierson says it better, "He is BELIEVABLE!" God IS who HE says HE IS and HE Can do what HE says HE can do through us who BELIEVE! Thank you to those who have been praying for a special friend for Madison. Thank you God for continuing to make yourself known. Thank you for answering our prayers. Madison and Emma are Yours! Thank you for allowing me the most precious gift of being their mommy. You are amazing and believable! I love you!

The Final Story

Madison brought home a letter from school today. Apparently a lady threatened the principal yesterday morning with physical harm. Police were called and she was forbidden to enter the school until further notice. The school went into lock down because of that threat alone. Back to School Night was cancelled because at the time they thought there might be a relation between that incident and the boy seen with a rifle. As for the boy seen with a rifle on school grounds......it was actually reported to police as 3 boys with rifles. :) But police soon learn there was no relation between the two incidents. I decided to call the police station myself, after reading the letter. The police informed me that the report was completely false. No guns were on property. Maybe they were lacrosse sticks. Maybe not. Police did not say. But, there were definitely no guns. Obviously someone upset over the previous incident got confused with what she saw. And all is safe at Northside Elementary once again!

Update on Madison's School

Our friend Helen is one of the crossing guards for the high school. She called us this morning and informed us that apparently the boy was carrying a lacrosse stick. Who knows at this point. Madison went to school. I am sure we will get a note from school about it. The mother having a big fight with the principal probably got things started. Anyway, as for now, all is safe again. It is never fun when things get blown out of proportion. However, I am glad the school and the police take all matters so seriously. This has been a huge lesson for me that we can never quit praying for our children and for safety at our schools. It is so sad that it is even an issue.....but it is. Thanks for all who prayed last night. Prayer is so powerful! Even when things are not as bad as they seem, God can still teach us wonderful lessons.

PLEASE PRAY!

I just went to Madison's school for Back to School Night, and when I got there, everyone was outside with police everywhere. Back to School Night was called off. Apparently, someone saw a teenage boy with a gun outside the school grounds today. Supposedly he was also inside at one point. A mother also had a huge fight with the principal this morning. No relationship at this point. The school was in lock down all day today. Of course, I did not know that until tonight. Madison said they had a lock down drill all day today, but we all assumed it was just that....a drill. The superintendent said if the suspect was not apprehended by morning, the police would decide whether or not to call off school tomorrow! THIS IS CRAZY! Wonderful things are happening every day. But this is a great reminder of how much we need to always pray for this community and please pray specifically for our family......my girls. Please pray the police will have wisdom to make the right call, and for all the children to be safe. Pray for the young boy who is deeply troubled. Please pray for Madison! We will update you when me know more.

I WON THE LOTTERY!

Can you believe it?! Like our good friend Jeff Newpher said, "who would have ever thought we'd be praying for me to win the lottery! ":). I am so excited! Mrs. Leung sent me a note home with Madison saying that I had won the lottery. I am officially one of two class parents for Madison's 2nd grade class. Thank you so much to those who pray for great opportunities like this one, to come along! I will be able to meet and get to know moms in a much greater way! Not to mention the fact that I get to be apart of Madison's class in a special way. Madison is very excited that I am class parent. More time together! Seems so silly to be so excited over being chosen Class Room Mother, as I remember it being called. I feel like I just won an award or something really big. But, I am just that.......Excited....Thrilled....Happy! God is good.

Ballerina Emma Grace!

Emma went to dance class this morning! She absolutely loved every second! Her teacher is Miss Regina. There are three other little girls in her class. They are all age 3, but Emma is the very youngest by at least 6 months. I got to watch her dance from a downstairs room with the other mothers. (lots of talk time) A video projected the class onto a big wall. So, we could see the girls, but they could not see us. I did not say anything to Emma before class about behaving or listening to the teacher, because I thought she would be nervous and quiet. Oh no! Just the opposite. She was all over the place. She loved tapping those tap shoes and that is just what she did. The teacher had drawn circles with chalk on the floor for each child to stand in. Emma could not stand still! :) She was always scooting over by the girl next to her. Miss Regina said tap and point, and Emma jumped and turned around in circles. Several times she ran across the room and Miss Regina had to go and bring her back. Emma was very sweet at all times, and always did what she was asked when Miss Regina spoke to her, but the minute she lost focus, she was on the move again. For the first time ever, I was the parent in the room holding my breath with her every move! Of course, everyone got a kick out of her. The other 3 girls attend nursery school and did as 2 year olds as well, so the mothers were impressed Emma did as well as she did for never being in a structured class before. So, that made me feel a little better :). Half way through, I found myself laughing and enjoying her sweet ways! Because she is just that......Sweet and Adorable!! Emma brings a smile to your face the moment you look at her. Her enthusiasm is contagious!
Afterwards her teacher reassured me Emma's behavior was completely normal and she would figure it all out within a few weeks! Miss Regina is the owner of Levittown Dance, and is so wonderful with the girls. Very patient, sweet, fun, and beautiful! Pray for good girl talk among moms each week!
When we came home, Sterling was there for lunch. She told daddy at lunch that she had friends and a teacher! (Just like her Big Sister) She was so precious, and those few words made it very clear to me that she belonged in dance!

Houston Chronicle Story About First Baptist Katy and Crossroads Church Of Long Island

Katy News

First Baptist Church of Katy at 600 Pin Oak Road held a special service at 10:30 a.m. September 10 commemorating 9/11 and kicking off its partnership with Crossroads Church of Long Island, New York. The event included special music by soloist Jenna Edwards of Crossroads Church. Edwards, wife of Reverend Sterling Edwards, sings "Everything to Me."
Suzanne Rehak: For the Chronicle

Signing the covenant is Sterling Edwards, pastor of Crossroads, seated. Standing from left, Brad Veitch, director of church planting, Baptist Convention of Syracuse, New York, Richard Harris, vice president of church planting, North America Mission Board in Atlantic City, Georgia and Dr. Randy White, senior pastor, First Baptist Church.
Suzanne Rehak: For the Chronicle

9/11 service ushers in new agreementKaty officials sign covenant with New York church
By KIMBERLY PIÑAChronicle Correspondent

Hamburgers, hot dogs and a group of strangers sitting around a picnic table on Labor Day is how Sterling Edwards and his family will remember the beginning of Crossroads Church of Long Island.
"Labor Day was a really big deal," said Edwards, 33, pastor of the new church in New York. "It was really encouraging to us."

With the help of First Baptist Church of Katy, Edwards, his wife, Jenna, and their two daughters, Madison and Emma, moved to Levittown, N.Y., in July to start the church.
About 20 First Baptist members traveled with Edwards as part of a weeklong mission trip.
Members went door-to-door, to a local beach and to a train station, passing out Frisbees, water bottles and information about Crossroads. They also invited residents to attend home Bible studies.
Before returning to Katy, church members gave Edwards and his family a picnic table for their backyard.
It turned out to be a gift with a greater purpose for the nine people at the Edwardses' Labor Day cookout, the new church's largest gathering so far.
"We didn't know any of these people two months ago, and none of the people who came knew each other," Edwards said. "We knew that picnic table would come in handy."
The new church is a partnership between First Baptist-Katy and the North American Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.
To coincide with the five-year anniversary of 9/11, First Baptist held a special service Sunday to mark the church's partnership with Crossroads. Church and mission board leaders signed a formal covenant acknowledging First Baptist's support of the new church.
"What's exciting about this is that we sent out a calling for churches to partner with us, and Katy stepped up," said Richard Harris, vice president of church planting for the North American Mission Board.
The summer mission trip was the first phase of First Baptist's three-year project to build and support the church in New York, said Randy White, First Baptist's senior pastor. The trip exceeded First Baptist's expectations, White said.
"They have worked very diligently to get a core group of people together," said White, who has led First Baptist's 2,500 members for more than three years. "We're slightly ahead of schedule."
Steve Pierson, a church member who went on the mission trip, said it was difficult work but productive. Pierson and other members passed out more than 300 free bottles of water, which New Yorkers especially enjoyed receiving during a summer heat wave.
"We made a lot of contacts with a lot of folks, and it was an interesting trip," Pierson said. "I loved it. I want to go back right now."
First Baptist partnered with the North American Mission board about 18 months ago to set up the new church. The Katy church is investing about $250,000, which the mission board will match. Funding comes from the church's missions budget.
Crossroads is one of more than 40 churches starting in the New York area as part of New Hope New York, an initiative created three years ago by the mission board. Churches are being formed in other metropolitan cities like Chicago, Phoenix and Las Vegas.
First Baptist will serve as the sponsor and mentor to Crossroads, with hopes that the New York church will be self-sufficient in the next three years and eventually start other churches in the area.
Since the First Baptist members left New York, Edwards and his family have continued meeting people in their community and telling them about Crossroads. They have met people at area stores, the post office and even online.
"We're just really looking to build some relationships," said Edwards, adding that he looks forward to the new people he's going to meet each day. "It's just been really pretty amazing for us to see how this unfolds and how much we're not in control."

Emma At The Park!

 

Emma the Ballerina!

Emma enjoyed time at the park this morning. She met a little 3 year old girl from India. Her family spent the entire summer visiting relatives in India. Her mother told me they get very lonely here because all of their family lives in India. We hope to run into them again sometime! We are blessed to see our families as often as we do. Emma is going to begin dance lessons in a few weeks at Levittown Dance Studio. She will have a 55 minute combination class of ballet and tap every Wednesday morning at 10:15. She is very excited to go to her very own dance school! I hope to meet many new moms through the class. Also, I volunteerd today to be a Class Parent for Madison's Class. Only 2 are chosen in a lottery. If not, I will be a helper as needed. I pray that either one of these opportunities will give me chance to reach out to more people. Please continue to pray in that direction!

Jenna

Madison's First Day Of School In New York!

 

Madison's Big Day!

This morning Madison woke up and came and got in my bed. She sat in front of me so sweetly, and told me how nervous she was. She said she could feel the nervousness in the tops of her arms :). We talked about how wonderful the day would be and how she could ask God to help her at any point during her day. After a filling bowl of oatmeal and fixing of the hair, we headed out the door. Parents were not allowed to walk their child to class. We were supposed to drop them off at a certain door and teachers would help them find their class. I did not like that one bit! But, I knew I needed to follow the rules. When we pulled up to the school, many parents were in the line to walk their child to class, regardless of the rules. I wanted so badly to walk her in, but I dropped her off the way I was supposed to. (I did sit parked in my van up ahead to make sure she got in the door). All day long I thought about her and wondered what she was doing at that moment, which was wonderful, because it constantly led me to lift her up in prayer. Emma and I walked to pick her up. It is 0.66 mile to the school. We stood at the 2nd grade exit door anxiously awaiting her arrival. When I first saw her smiling face calling "mommy" through the glass door, I was relieved! She came running out and talked our ears off the entire way home. She gave us every detail from the moment she walked in the school until the end of her day. She likes her teacher, Mrs. Leung. She said she already made 3 new girlfriends, of which only one name she can remember. Marissa is her name and she also has a younger sister. She said one girl teased her about being from Houston, but she said she told her that everyone else is from somewhere to! (so she handled herself just fine! Without her mommy's help! So Proud!) She is excited about going back tomorrow! She is also excited about having NO homework tonight! We told her she could have anything she wanted for dinner tonight for her special day, and she asked Daddy to grill some steaks. So, Madison and Emma are outside right now, helping daddy grill the steaks! Thank you to everyone who is praying for Madison! Prayers are being answered in wonderful ways! Thank you Cindy and Abigail for the special love you sent our way! God is good!

Investments

Mary Winkler, the pastors wife from Tennessee, accused of shooting her husband, is a topic for discussion on every news station. I remember when it first happened, many news reporters talked with friends and neighbors about how difficult it is for a ministers wife to have close friends. One neighbor commented, "What would cause a godly woman to do such a thing?" From personal experience, I can tell you that anyone, even a Christian, can be deceived and pretend to be something they are not. I know how hard it is to be a ministers wife. There are expectations too high to reach, if not from others, in our own minds. You never quite feel like you can fully let down your guard and be REAL. The fear of what someone might think is too great. Then there are those times when someone befriends you and takes you in, and you begin to open up....and then something happens in the church they do not agree with, and you are suddenly the enemy. It is no wonder churches get such a bad rap today. We can't even love each other unconditionally, much less the people on the street. I believe Mary and her husband were trying so hard to be what others expected, that it caused built up frustrations in their home, and with no one else to confide in, the enemy came in, and like she said "I snapped". My heart feels deeply for her, and what roller coaster she must have been on to take her to such a dark place. But because of God's amazing grace, it is not too late for her.
Please, do not misunderstand me. I am not saying their church or all other churches have those kinds of problems. But, far too many do. This morning, we went back to Farmingdale Baptist Church. I am sure they are not a perfect church. I am sure they have had their issues in the past. All churches do at some point. But, I will say that I have never felt more welcome and more loved in a church before. It is very evident that they are truly a family of God. They love each other. They care about each other. And they remain strong together without a pastor, because of their great love for each other and God's kingdom. I long to be a part of a church, a people, that is authentic and truly devoted to each others lives and the lives of those who are still lost. I long to be a part of a people who are there for each other at every turn, every valley, every mountain top. A people that accept your every flaw and still love you and help you reach your full potential in Christ. I will never forget when I was running from the Lord, my dear friend Dale Ann managed to get me in her house and actually locked me inside with no way out, so that she could try and knock some sense in me. Her and Carl went through the valley with me because they truly loved me.....despite my sin. Hate the sin, love the sinner. I am forever grateful for their investment in my life and they could never know just how much they mean to me. I long for a group of people to invest in each others lives that way. I pray God will build such a people at Crossroads Church of Long Island. Reach out to your brothers and sisters in Christ. You never know what is truly going on in their hearts and what they need and long for, if you do not invest yourself in their lives. It will be worth it! It saved my life.

Jenna

Hannah Montana

Madison had cheerleading practice tonight. Jenna was watching Madison practice with her cheerleading team, while Emma and walked over to a nearby playground. I was pushing her in the swing. A lady was pushing her son in the swing next to us. We had a brief conversation and learned that she was the daughter of the person who owns our house. That was interesting. We talked for a little while and then she asked Emma what her name was. Emma, completely straight faced, said "My name is Hannah Montana." Emma has said that she was Hannah Montana before, but she's never introduced herself to someone we have never met as Hannah Montana.
The lady thought she was funny. She is. But it's also a little scary not knowing what she is going to say.
Keep praying for us.
sterling

Praise!

...Madison and Emma are on the road to recovery!

Transition

Madison starts school at Northside on September 6. Her new teachers name is Mrs. Leung. She is very nice and is one of the Lead teachers at the school. Madison is very excited and ready to start. She is still sick and miserable, and was worried today she would miss the first day of school. I reassured her she would be better by then! :) A few things we would love for you to pray for.....
1. Pray for an easy transition for Madison into public school and in a new place.
2. Please pray for her to make a special friend......many of them.
3. Please pray for her teacher, Mrs. Leung.
4. Please pray for ways for us to reach out and be involved with other families in the school.
5. Please pray for her me, (mommy). I homeschooled her before, NOT because I did not like public schools, or could not afford private ones, or because I thought we could improve on future SAT scores. But, because I wanted to be with her. I love having her home with me. I hate being away from my girls. However, I know with full assurance, Northside is where God wants her to be, and I want His plan for her more than my own. I did not say it would be easy though. So please pray for my transition as well.
6. Please pray for her biggest fan, EMMA. She will miss her more than anyone. She loves her big sister.
Emma and I will find plenty of fun and special things to do, just the two of us, while Maddie is at school. (She knows how to keep me busy!) But, we will look so forward to 3:10pm, when Maddie comes home!
Nothing Else I would rather do..............than be their mother.

FAMILY NIGHT! (Around the Humidifier)

Please continue to pray for Madison and Emma. Breathing treatments, Humidifiers, Antibiotics, and lots of yucky Robitussin. They are pretty miserable. Thank goodness for the Disney Channel! We will all be watching "The Cheetah Girls 2" movie premier tonight. (Sterling can't wait!) Hopefully that will take the girls minds off their sore throats! Thanks for praying!

Random Information About Today

1. I played tennis this evening. It was a lot of fun. I'm no Agassi, but I did okay.
2. Madison and Emma are both running a fever tonight. They do not feel well at all. Pray for them.
3. I am beginning to realize the profound impact I have had on my high school students from Houston. I have heard from three college freshman this week who have reported that they have Abuelo's (The Mexican Food Embassy!) in their respective cities. I could not be prouder.
4. I heard a song from Sara Groves a couple of months ago. I heard it again today. The lyrics pierce me. Seriously, this song speaks to me in such an amazing way. You can find it at itunes. The lyrics are below.

That's all for now!

Breaking Free - A Word From Jenna

Discipline......a battle I have yet to overcome. I want and try to be disciplined...but somehow I never quite get there. Everything from being an early riser, to eating healthy (and less), to exercising every day, to never missing my time with the Lord, to cooking every night, to spending as much quality time with my family as possible, to keeping the house clean and laundry caught up. The list goes on and on.
Every night before I go to sleep I tell myself that I am going to do better tomorrow. I have such well laid plans in my head. But then somehow by mid-morning I am off track.....unless I have had my regular coca-cola fix....which then takes me til about lunch. Then I spend the rest of the day upset at myself for not following through with all I promised. By bedtime, I begin the cycle all over again. I don't know if anyone else out there goes through this, but I am tired of the cycle. (even more tired of my excuses) I know I cannot do this on my own. Without help from the Lord, I am hopeless. But, I also need accountability and prayer.
I decided to do my night time ritual a little different tonight. Instead of making empty promises to myself, I am making a commitment before the Lord and all of you who read our blog. My commitment is to become more disciplined in the areas God has convicted me, in order to be the very best I can be for Him.
I will keep you updated as I strive to break free from this stronghold. Please pray that I focus on Him and all He has for me. Forgetting the past and straining toward what is ahead, I keep trying to reach the goal and get the prize for which God has called me through Christ Jesus! The Battle Belongs to the Lord!!

In Rockefeller Center With Jenna's Parents and Grandparents

 

Madison and Emma With Their Mamaw and Papaw