Psalm 45:13 The King's daughter is all glorious within.

New Blog

2011-05-06T14:27:00.001-06:00

Hey so I've changed blogs please check it out at

www.alainamathers.blogspot.com

Transition Again!

2010-05-20T20:35:00.002-06:00

Click the following link to see my latest newsletter!

The Butterfly Circus

2010-03-25T05:30:00.001-06:00

Amazing Short Film...

Very Touching

Too Sweet Not To Share

2010-03-23T12:37:00.002-06:00

Pray for Cuba

2010-03-14T05:51:00.001-06:00

HABANA VIEJA from Van Royko on Vimeo.

This is just a few shots of Cuba and the people there.

Love this song.. and the video is amazing too =)

Caught in a Dream

2010-03-07T09:46:00.003-07:00

Right now my grandfather and uncle are visiting me in Italy. I can hardly believe they are here and it is nearly time for them to go home again. It feels a bit surreal.. kind of dream like.

An amazing, wonderful dream. I have so enjoyed sharing with them just a bit of what I have experienced over here in Europe. It has been an amazing blessing to see my "new world" through their eyes.

It is the strangest thing ever however to have my two worlds cross over. It also reminds me of how hard this upcoming transition of going home is going to be. It is so good to see a bit of "home" from Montana, but this has become "home" too. I love the people here.. They have become my family.. as did the people in England that are now spread across the ends of the earth. I am nervous, excited, sad, happy, every emotion rolled into one... As it comes closer I know these feelings will intensify as they have this week.

I cannot believe how fast the time is rushing by... It is snowing right but in just a few weeks I hope we can see the signs of spring.

Reality

2010-02-03T15:17:00.003-07:00

Something is wrong with this photograph

What is so inviting about a place

Where the shades of black overshadow everything

A shrill cold voice beckons and I turn

Doing its bidding without question

Scrambling for more like a beggar

I can’t grasp enough of this hopelessness

As it pours into me, I am hollowed

My eyes have become haggard and empty

My hunger and thirst never satisfied

Standing on the edge, in the confines of despair

The shallow remains of life flow in my veins

Yearning to poured out to end this pain

Anything to be released from this bitter cold void

Had there once been hope?

Or was that just a fantasy- a desire- a wish

But then- a warm touch- a kind word

Cracks the frozen wasteland of a life

Maybe- just maybe- hope was more than a dream

My eyes freed from the blinding black ice

Open to see an outstretched hand

Scarred for me, He radiates light and warmth

My frozen soul melts in His tender affection

The intensity of His love shatters death’s dark hold

The anguish I felt so deeply vaporizes instantly

As I am filled with warm rays of hope

Overflowing with joy and peace

My heart beats alive and vibrant

A spot of color has broken into this image

But something is still amiss

The cold voice still beckons as darkness waits

Shivering, I cling to the reassurance in that scarred hand

I gaze into the desolate place where I once dwelled

My soft warm heart aches as I behold

People of empty eyes and hopeless lives

A soft whisper fills my ear, “Show them.”

The spark burst into flame as I realize

It’s my turn to be the kind word- the warm touch

He has chosen me to share His radiance

Maybe- just maybe- I can show them the reality of hope

To pour His powerful love into this picture

Bringing vibrant life in color and light

As it was meant to be

~Alaina Mathers

2/3/10

I wrote this after Rick, one of the staff members here, shared one of his favorite verses at team devotions in Italy.

Matthew 24:12-14

~ And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. ~

I really liked the imagery Rick used in talking about how when we turn from God we are in the cold and that sin creeps in like a breath of cold air. Our compassion and love for people and desire to share the love of our Lord Jesus should be as a warming beating heart, alive and vibrant. When we choose sin, we become a dark, empty, hollow without faith or hope. But when we choose God, we receive the gift of life filled with hope and light and a faith that is very much alive and vibrant. In that faith, we are filled with compassion and love for those who are trapped in this hard, cold, dark place where we live. It is rarely easy, but we can spread the warmth if we stay faithful, and keep our eyes on Christ until the end.

Looking Forward

2010-01-09T12:22:00.000-07:00

The Truth Hurts, A lies worse

2010-01-08T05:35:00.002-07:00

2010-01-06T16:41:00.000-07:00

December: Christmas and The New Year

2009-12-21T09:04:00.002-07:00

Well,
December has flown by so quickly. . . I can hardly believe we are almost to Christmas. Thinking of everyone at home and missing them. I've decided that goodbyes should never take place as many of my new friends have gone home for Christmas. Currently I am sitting in Switzerland. I was able to travel here to spend Christmas with a friend. It's beautiful and I love it already. Though in some ways it is surreal to be here. I've only got six days here before heading back to England for a busy New Year Outreach. There are many people coming just for the week from all over the world so it should be a good time. Then just three more week in England before heading off to Italy. I know it will fly by. Thank you for all your prayers!

2009-12-12T12:17:00.002-07:00

Let's Put CHRIST back into CHRIST-mas!!!

2009-12-07T04:48:00.002-07:00

Twas the month before Christmas,
when all through the land,
not a Christian was praying,
nor taking a stand.

See, the PC Police had taken away,
Reason For Christmas - no one could say.
The children were told by their schools not to sing,
about Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.
It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say.
December 25th is just a 'Holiday'.

Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit,
pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!
CD's from Madonna, and X BOX, and I-Pod.
Something was changing, something quite odd!
Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa,
in hopes to sell books byFranken and Fonda.

As Target stores were hanging their trees upside down,
At Lowe's the word Christmas - was nowhere to be found.
At K-Mart and Staples and Penny's and Sears;
you wont hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.
Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-si-ty,
are words that were used tointimidate me.

Now Daschle, now Darden, now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen;
on Boxer, onRather, on Kerry, on Clinton!
At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter...
To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.

And we spoke not a word,
as they took away our faith,
forbidden to speak of salvation and grace.
The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded.
The reason for the season, stopped before it started.
So as you celebrate "Winter Break",
under the "Dream Tree, SippingStarbucks," listen to me.

CHOOSE YOUR WORDS CAREFULLY,
CHOOSE WHAT YOU SAY...
"SHOUT MERRY CHRISTMAS" not "Happy Holiday".
Please, all Christians join together and wish,
EVERYONE YOU MEET during
the holidays a "MERRY CHRISTMAS" .

Christ is the reason for the Christ-mas Season!

A bit of life. . .

2009-11-29T16:58:00.006-07:00

A Day Exploring London - Far Too Short

2009-11-21T14:49:00.004-07:00

“You find no man, at all intellectual, who is willing to leave London. No, Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford." ~ Samuel Johnson 1709-1784

Made Me Smile so I had to share :)

2009-11-19T18:01:00.001-07:00

Words Women Use and What They Really Mean:
littlemiss:
Fine - This is the word women use to end an argument when they feel they are right and you need to shut up. Never use “fine” to describe how a woman looks - this will cause you to have one of those arguments.
Five Minutes - This is half an hour. It is equivalent to the five minutes that your football game is going to last before you take out the rubbish, so it’s an even trade.
Nothing - This means “something”, and you should be on your toes. “Nothing” is usually used to describe the feeling a woman has of wanting to turn you inside out, upside down, and backwards. “Nothing” usually signifies an argument that will last “Five Minutes” and end with “Fine”.
Go Ahead - At some point in the near future, you are going to be in some mighty big trouble.
Go Ahead (With Raised Eyebrows) - This is a dare. One that will result in a woman getting upset over “Nothing” and will end with the word “Fine”.
Go Ahead (Neutral Expression) - This means “I give up” or “do what you want because I don’t care” You will get a “Raised Eyebrow Go Ahead” in just a few minutes, followed by “Nothing” and “Fine” and she will talk to you in about “Five Minutes” when she cools off.
Loud Sigh - This is not actually a word, but is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A “Loud Sigh” means she thinks you are an idiot at that moment, and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you over “Nothing”.
Soft Sigh - Again, not a word, but a non-verbal statement. “Soft Sighs” mean that she is content. Your best bet is to not move or breathe, and she will stay content.
That’s Okay - This is one of the most dangerous statements that a woman can make to a man. “That’s Okay” means that she wants to think long and hard before paying you back for whatever it is that you have done. “That’s Okay” is often used with the word “Fine” and in conjunction with a “Raised Eyebrow”.
Please Do - This is not a statement, it is an offer. A woman is giving you the chance to come up with whatever excuse or reason you have for doing whatever it is that you have done. You have a fair chance with the truth, so be careful and you shouldn’t get a “That’s Okay”.
Thanks - A woman is thanking you. Do not faint. Just say you’re welcome.
Thanks A Lot - This is much different from “Thanks.” A woman will say, “Thanks A Lot” when she is really ticked off at you. It signifies that you have offended her in some callous way, and will be followed by the “Loud Sigh.” Be careful not to ask what is wrong after the “Loud Sigh,” as she will only tell you “Nothing”.

Getting Lost in Birmingham

2009-11-15T14:55:00.004-07:00

You gotta learn to step out in faith and walk on water.

Endurance Builds Character

2009-11-07T11:46:00.002-07:00

Hebrews 10:36 For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.

2009-11-03T16:02:00.000-07:00

Why?

2009-10-31T13:13:00.000-06:00

In my novels, the main characters face great conflict, turmoil, uncertainty, and suffering. Some die. So who am I to say God shouldn’t write such things into his story, including my part? God created all the characters in his story. He loves a great story, and he has made us to love it. Before we fault him for the plot twists we don’t like, we should remember that Jesus has written this story in his own blood. -Randy Alcorn

Alone

2009-10-24T15:33:00.001-06:00

Defiance

2009-10-03T19:34:00.001-06:00

The warm embrace of the world
Or the cold embrace of the lonely wind
Through which the still small Voice calls
Which will we choose?

The crowd swells laughter spilling over
Or the quiet path going into the desolate places
Where there is only One who will carry us?
Which will we choose?

How do I turn away these temptations?
Tearing me in two, I cry out
I know whom I want to follow
Where will I find the strength?

So torn, I want to run away from it all
Kneeling in the depths of the valley
My soul cries out in despair of ever
Finding true understanding

Can He be my supply and hope?
Shaking, I reach out, may it be so
Or will I be lost to this world
Trying to find Him in the wrong places?

I am choosing this day and every day
I will sing with the still Voice whilst
The cold wind howls in the dark
The path may be narrow but it is straight

Anguish may pour over me
Tears may stream down my face
But joy will reign in my heart
For I have chosen the truth

The raging storm comes in so quickly
I stumble and fall, I cry out in despair
He is there, bringing me to my knees
Against all logic, peace stands firm

I can’t get up, but there is no need
He is there, shielding me from the pain
When it becomes more than I can bear
He picks me up and wipes away my tear

All because I have chosen, I have called out
Even when it stands against reason
I have chosen to rest in His wisdom
For I have none on my own

Why you might ask?
This makes no sense
I must agree,

There’s no rhyme, nor reason
His love doesn’t make sense
Understanding will never come
But maybe- just maybe hope will.

He gave it all for me and in return
I scorned Him, I mocked Him
His love paid the ultimate price
His desire to be with me overruled reason

So maybe it does make sense
That I would abandon reason to be with Him
He turned away from it to be with me
Which will you choose?

Will you delight in a love that
Has withstood the test of sacrifice?
Or will you wander with the lost
Into the deadly hands of despair?

Will you stand firm against the storm
Dependent on His strength?
Or will you be shattered when the party
Ends with burning anguish?

He will wait for you
His arms are wide open
His desire to be with you
Has defied all reason

Will you defy reason for Him?

A Portion of Adventure Week

2009-09-14T06:35:00.007-06:00

So Adventure week is too big for one post so here's a portion of it. . . Four days in North Wales hiking, geocaching, team building, and delighting in God's creation.

Some of the girls getting ready to head up the mountain in the pouring rain and wind gusts up to 55 miles per hour. So excited at this point

On the path up the mountain. . .check out that rain. . .

The path further up the mountain so pretty. Lots of waterfalls, stone ruins from buildings built by the miners etc etc. . . so neat!

Our map reading excercise. . . yes it's dark as in the wee hours of the morning dark. . .

Geocaching the day after getting only 4 hours of sleep. . . hiked a couple of kilometers. . . beautiful country to be in for sure. . .

One of many stone building/ruins

The team for the day. . . (Left to Right)

Luke, Alaina, Elizabeth, Nina, Stefan B, Gracie, HaEun, Stefan S, and Clemmens

Where They're all From (Left to Right)

England, US, Germany, US, Germany, US, Korea, Netherlands, Germany

Debrief

We had a great time and learned a lot about how we work in a team. . community is hard but rewarding. . I think :) So we are making it and working together to glorify God.

One of our morning devotions was in Psalms and this is what I read and wrote from that:

Psalm 135:5-7

For I know that the Lord is great; and that our Lord is above all gods.

Whatsoever the Lord pleased that did He in heaven and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places.

He causes the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth; He maketh the lightenings for the rain; He bringeth the wind out of His treasuries.

~~~~~

Who stretched forth the sky?

Who brought forth the wind?

Who rolls the thunder in high places?

My Jehovah

Who can calm the storm that stirs my soul?

Who can still the fear that shakes my foundation?

Who can comfort the grief that troubles my spirit?

My Jehovah

Losing sight of His might, my heart trembles

Tears shadow my eyes as deception clouds my mind

When all seems lost, none other can restore

Excpet my Jehovah

O Whom shall I sing evermore?

In whom can I rejoice again and again?

For whom shall I lay down my life?

None other than my Jehovah

Birmingham

2009-09-05T13:47:00.004-06:00

First Day as a Tourist in England

Dee dee do da day. . .. what is that horrible noise? My alarm!!! Oh no I'm late. . . wait?!?! It's our day off. . .oh it's Susan's alarm. Whew okay I can go back to sleep. . . Three hours later. 11:00 AM. . .Okay time to get up and actually do something on our glorious day off!

Pad down the insane yellow hallway to the bathroom to brush my teeth and get ready for the day. . . Then to the dining room to rumage for some brunch. . . which ended up consisting of cereal, banana, and a scone with Nutella. Yum! Scramble to call Dad on his way to work. . . about 5:40 AM at home. . . (It's almost 1:00PM here) Then off to the bus station to spend the afternoon in Birmingham! Yah!

We arrive and find our stop. . .not easy when you have many people's opinion spouting out sporadically. But find it we did. And to our delight, we found ourselves on the upper deck of a double decker bus! Hooray! What a way to see the city right? It was so neat the brick building flying by, the ceilings of the tunnels just out of reach, and the trees cut so we could go under.

About a half an hour later we arrived in the city centre of Birmingham. .. Off to the shops we went, getting all our supplies that we were lacking for the upcoming adventure week plus a few extras! (what's a girl to do when there's all these great shops :) Walking up the way we saw a gorgeous church steeple rising in the distance. So we quickly cut into a coffee shop for some sustenance and meandered our way to see the beautiful moss covered building. (Pictured behind us at the top)

We then got distracted by a book store and more shopping. .. then it was time to meet the guys back at the bus stop. Sirens screamed and policemen were crowding the streets. What was going on? Were they doing a training excercise? Hmm anyway, we needed to find the bus stop. We only did one circle before finding which way we needed to go.

Met up with the guys, and then discovered that the stop we had got off at was the wrong stop to get us back to Halesowen. So off we went for a jaunt around the city centre to find the right stop. More police swarmed and we found out that there had been riots going on down the street. Anit facists and right wingers had gotten into it apparently.

So we continued on. Admiring the architecture and beauty. Finally we found the right bus stop ( or so we thought ). Tired and ready to be back in our yellow prison. . .sort of. We got on and settled in. Only to find out that we had the wrong bus and were on our way to Dudley not Halesowen. . .So going 25 minutes out of our way, we then were able to get on the right bus and make our way safely home!

And that was my first day as a tourist in England!

GO Conference and Arrival in England.

2009-09-04T06:11:00.004-06:00

Geocaching in the English Country side

Model of a church in Delden Holland

Sprinkle bread for Breakfast!

Delden, Holland

Dani and Ha Eun goofing off at the center

Stefan, Clemmens, and Gracie after our scavenger hunt in Halesowen, England

Holland. . .ah glorious Holland. . .That is where the GO conference was and was insanely busy but amazing. We went to session after session on topics like the uniqueness of Chirst, the importance and impact of prayer, and Lie or Die? So I'd like to share some of my thoughts as we were challenged:

Lie or Die
For the last twenty four hours, controversy flooded the conversations. Lie or get through immigration? Lie or lose your Bible? Lie or die? Many compromised the truth justifying it by saying I’ll get through so that I can glorify God in that country. Others said, I need my Bible to minister so I will lie to keep it. Others said I need to live in order to bring the gospel of Christ to these unreached people. The night’s seminar was eagerly anticipated as the title was Lie or Die? Maybe someone could make sense of our arguments.
And make sense of it, Peter Mead did, with great conviction and insight to God’s Word. He gave us reference after reference that spoke of God’s inability and detestation for lies as well as His many commands not to lie. For you see, we were all overlooking the key to this. We only saw the small pictures in the heat of the moment. We didn’t look at our hearts attitude. We didn’t see that we had lost faith and trust in God and placed it back upon ourselves. Due to that we had bound ourselves up in a sticky situation.
Lie or die? Trust in me or trust in God? I personally held the conviction that I would never lie to save myself. I put myself in God’s hands, but could I put those I loved in His hands? A girl referred to those who so bravely hid the Jews in the Holocaust. Some had lied to protect the Jews. In my head, I knew I would have done the same thing. I wouldn’t have given up their lives just so I wouldn’t lie. This attitude was rocked when I heard Peter speak of whom I was putting my trust in.
Do I love those people more than God? Do I have the ability to save them better than He? The answer of course is a resounding no. God detests sin in a way that I cannot fathom. I know this because I still sin every day. I cannot grasp the full measure of hurt and pain that it has. But I know this, if it comes to lying or dying, I will die. I will trust in Him to take care of me as well as others. I will place my loved ones in His hands by choosing faith over fear, by using wisdom instead of acting foolishly, by thinking of eternity rather than the here and now, and by choosing His will over my own.
~Matthew 16:25~
For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

It was amazing couple of weeks filled with sprinkle bread(regular bread with some kind of spread on it like nutella or peanut butter and generally chocolate sprinkles), sandwiches(one with every meal I think), and chips (you might call them french fries). Learning words like Du bis Hoobsh (please if you can actually write German look down on me too much I have no clue if any of that is spelled correctly) Also Du bis mine bestest foid. Translation You are beautiful and You are my best friend. Heard hundreds of different accents and dozens of languages all praising and worshiping the One true God! It was truly indescribable. Lots of good friendships made and long walks in the countryside. Ah sweet Holland.

England, delightfully crisp cool England. This is where I will be for the next five months. We arrived and for the first time in 10 days we had cool dry weather (by dry I mean it wasn't humid) It rained shortly after, but wasn't sticky like in Holland(which felt very much like TN to me). We arrived at the center where will are training for three weeks and were finally able to unpack. . I didn't realize how much I dislike living out of duffle bags until I lived out of them for nearly a month. The next day we went geocaching but sadly didn't find what we were looking for. And then into classes. . .we've gone over things like using our testimony as an evangelism tool, starting conversations with strangers, What is the gospel, UK culture, and this afternoon we'll go over Islamic Culture because they're are many Islamic immagrants in the UK. So much to learn so little head space!

I am so tired with all the new information and a cold combined but I am loving it!
Miss you all back home!

Getting Ready to Take Off

2009-08-17T23:30:00.003-06:00

So here is a few pictures of what I've been up too since I've gotten done with work before I take off to Europe. Enjoy!

For our family vacation we went up to Canada and saw some gorgeous country.

We went to five national parks. The above photo was taken in Banff after a fresh snow.

(yes snow in August :-) it was so fun!

A lot of the water was a milky color because it was fed from the glacier melt

and had rock flour in it. The above picture is of Mom and Dad in front of Lake Louise.

Crossing the border just above Eureka, Tara is a Canada fan so we had to get
a picture of her there :D

We're true Montanans what can I say? The above picture is Me with Belle,

Mom with Harley, and Tara with Sierra.

Belle, Amy and I enjoying a day on the trail.

So here I am getting ready to go off to Europe and can still hardly believe it’s actually going to happen. It’s already been an amazing journey and I haven’t even left home yet. God has shown me again and again that this is where He wants me and I am very excited to see what He will do in and through me. I fly out of Spokane Wednesday morning, go on to Denver, and then to Philadelphia before crossing the sea to Amsterdam ( I will arrive Thursday morning there) where I will meet the OM staff. Please pray for safe travels and that I will be able to get some sleep on the flights so I don’t arrive completely exhausted. J From there we will go to De Kroeze Danne (you can see pictures of it at the link http://picasaweb.google.com/OMBelgium/DeKroezeDanne) where the GO conference will be held. At the conference I will meet my team and be introduced to my ministry. The purpose of the conference is to orientate each new worker practically and spiritually into embracing OM by giving a panoramic view showing the wealth and diversity through the introduction to its people, values, and ministry around the world. It will open my eyes to the needs and opportunities in the world as well as improve my cross-cultural awareness. I would ask that you would pray that my heart and eyes will be opened to God in a way they never have been before and that I would learn and grow in Him so that I may reach out and touch others for Him to the utmost. Thank you all for your continued love, support, and prayer. This would never have been possible without you. God is at work both here at home and abroad and I am excited to be a part of it.
The Lord bless you and keep you!
Alaina

I'm going to Europe!!! Plus some new photos

2009-07-14T17:33:00.012-06:00

Hello All!

Well I've been incredibly busy raising support and figuring out trip details (it's extremely hard to find a plane ticket that flies into Amsterdam in August (has to be there before noon) and then fly home in April out of Turin, Italy). But God is good and He provided the perfect ticket as well enough funds and lots of prayer and encouragement!I can hardly believe it but I am indeed most likely going to Europe. . .for EIGHT months! It's a little mind boggling, but I'm very excited to have this oppurtunity. So thank you all so much for you prayer and support! It means the world to me!

Alright so on to normal life. . . or rather the fun things we've been up to in normal life :)

The Following photos are from Father's Day

We hiked up to a beautiful lake between St. Regis and Superier. This one if of Dad and Buddy balancing on a rock along the trail.

A pretty group of plants along the trail.

Here's the lake . . . So pretty!

Mom and Dad by the lake.

Family pic right before departure back to the truck. . . it was raining pretty good by this time. . .and yes I know the photo is blurry (dumb auto focus) but I like it anyway.

The following photos are on the 4th of July, we hiked up to Quartz Lake off of Cherry Creek.

Tara taking a sip from her camel pack.

Tara spoiling Bud Boy

View of Quartz Lake

View on the valley between Thompson and Plains

Me borrowing Tara's cowboy hat so I didn't sun burn. . I have such a great sis!

Quartz Lake

Dad and Buddy playing on a rock outcropping into the lake.

Some pretty little buds.

Amy curled up and ready for a nap along the shore.

Mom and Dad filling up water bottles for the hike out.

Some pretty foliage.

Amy being such a good girl.. . even though she was very tempted to chase poor Molly away from her food dish. :)

Well that's been my lastest news! Hope you all have a great day!

My support letter

2009-06-07T17:57:00.003-06:00

For those whom I don't have addresses to mail a support letter out too. (For those of you who I have addresses for you should get a letter in the mail soon). Just so you know a little more in depth what I'm trying to accomplish in the next month. Have a great day!

I’m writing to tell you about an upcoming opportunity in my life that I’m excited about. I’ve been praying about this for some time and have decided I would like to try to go on a short term mission trip. In August, I’m planning to go to the UK and Italy for eight months with OM (Operation Mobilization) Lifehope ministries.
OM organizes mission trips to various parts of the world, and each year thousands of Christians from different countries participate, working alongside full-time missionaries, and local churches to present the message of Jesus. OM holds strong values such knowing and glorifying God while living in submission to His word. Their focus is to reach those who have never heard the Gospel and build up the local church while training and equipping world Christians.
For the first five months in the UK, I will be working in a team in close partnership with a church; reaching out to the community it seeks to serve. I will be sharing the love of Christ by building relationships in the community, serving them and giving them opportunities to hear the Gospel in many different ways. I will be fully immersed into this community and my witness will make a difference, both in their lives and my own. Each team has between 4 and 8 people. Team members come from all over the world - I may be in a team with people from Europe, North America, Asia, South America and Africa. I will find it exciting and challenging learning to live alongside Christians from different parts of the world. Although most team members are young people, the oldest student at Lifehope was 73!
For the last three months in Italy, I will join a team that will serve and worship with a local church. I will invest time with young people, students, internationals, and Italians in the parks, the piazzas, the marketplace, and the university campus that will lead to conversations about faith and eternity. I will have opportunities to reach out in creative ways and get to use those skills for evangelism and serving. I will join a family team made up of a team leader and four to six others with whom I will train and serve. I will also be a part of the larger OM-Italy team that includes members from four continents.
I am hoping not only to impact others lives, but my own as well. Through this experience I want to strive to draw close to my Savior and Lord by serving Him fully and growing in Him as I study and am trained in His Word. In order to have the greatest impact on others and myself, I need a dedicated prayer support team here at home. I need people to pray for me as I prepare to go on this trip as well as for safety, good health, and the courage to share my faith while I am serving.
I also need a team of people who will commit to financially help with the costs of the trip (travel, accommodations, food, and ministry expenses). The cost to participate in this OM outreach is $7055.00 + the cost of airfare to Holland (where the GO conference is) and airfare back from Italy. I need to raise these funds by July 5. I intend to contribute as much as I can earn, but I can’t do it on my own. Would you prayerfully consider helping me financially so that I may serve in this outreach? I am hoping receive $100.00 from 35 people. However, any amount would help tremendously. If you would like to help, please send your tax-deductible gift, made payable to OM, with the support coupon, to me (Alaina Mathers P.O. Box 142 Plains, MT 59859). Please include my account number 2265967 on the subject/for line of the check. You may also give online at www.omusa.org/GiveOnline.

I am excited to see what God has in store for me in the coming year. Through your generosity, we can make a huge impact on this world for Christ and His kingdom. Your support and prayer makes all the difference and I appreciate your consideration and kindness so much. I can’t wait to share this experience with you. Thank you for your time and prayer.

Also, I need to sell my 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo, So if you know anyone that might be interested let me know. Thanks a bunch!

Lifehope to Europe: The UK and Italy

2009-06-05T20:24:00.002-06:00

Hello All,
Well I know it's been a long time since I've been on here, but there has been a lot of changes in my life in the last week so I thought I'd share some. I have been praying and trying to go into a full time mission trip for eight months over in the UK and Italy. I was just accepted into the ministry yesterday, and am so excited about the possibilities that God is opening up here. So now I just need to get the support raised and off I'll go. Well not quite but anyway. So here's the jist of what it is for those of you that haven't been in on this so far. I'm going through a ministry called Operation Mobilization. The Lifehope program that I'll be doing is a community outreach and training in evangelism. The first five months will be spent in the UK training with our team of 4 to 8 people from various parts of the world and the final three will be in Italy. I'm very excited about this so I hope you all will be praying that God will show me that this is for sure where He wants me and that I'll be able to serve Him and grow in Him through this experience.
Love to you all. Have a great day!

Please take the time to read this. . .

2009-04-30T13:10:00.001-06:00

This is a message from a site that I follow and often convicts me. . . some of the articles get a little long but they are always worth it. . . this one is great and not all that long so please take the five minutes to read it.

Sorry, I'm Just Not A Pro-life Activist
Sorry, I'm just not a pro-life activist. I can't stomach the graphic pictures. I don't have the courage to just walk up to someone I don't know and talk to them about an issue like this. I don't like to tell people what's wrong and what's right. I can't take being hated. I couldn't take the way they'd look at me.I don't know the facts about abortion well enough to defend what I believe, personally. I don't know enough about biology to know when life begins any more than the next person.I know I'd say something stupid. I know I'd have trouble proving what I said. When I get nervous, my mind goes blank and I have trouble putting my thoughts into words. And I always get nervous when I meet new people -- or even just talk to them on the phone. Sometimes I even get scared explaining my ideas to people I know well.I don't like going out there and putting myself in tough situations. I don't like confrontations. When people get angry at me, I'm afraid they'll hurt me. I don't enjoy taking risks. None of this is anything I'm good at.Sorry. I'm just not the pro-life activist type.But . . . let's put it this way: Would you be willing to risk something to save a child?Imagine you're walking down the street and you see a house on fire. As you approach, a lady runs up, gasping and sobbing, and grabs you by the arm. "My daughter . . ." she says, then she points towards the house. "Where?" you ask. "Upstairs," she cries, pointing to a window on the second level. The window is above an overhang of the roof. You see a drainpipe along the side of the roof. But . . . "Sorry, I'm just not athletic," you tell her. You've never climbed a drainpipe to a roof before. You might slip. You'd probably fall. You're just not an athletic, fireman-type, drainpipe-climbing kind of person. A scream from within the house pierces your thoughts. You turn to see the mother's distraught expression. "I'm sorry . . ." you tell her.Sounds pretty lame, doesn't it?You see, it doesn't matter what kind of person you are. All that matters is that you care.I'm not a pro-life activist kind of person. Before almost everything I do, I say, "God, I can't do this!" But in my heart, I know what's right. So nothing else matters. I must do what I can. It doesn't matter what kind of person I am. There is something more important than that. There are children dying. Set your eyes on the Face of your Heavenly Father. See His Love for them. And can't you hear the cry of each soul? As the choice is made, as the pain envelops, it screams, "I want to live!"Friends, be passionate, be active, do something about what you believe. I didn't know the facts. I had to research them. Being homeschooled, I'd hardly studied biology. So I found articles and books about when life begins and the development of the child in the womb and I pored over them. I don't like reading about abortion. Babies don't like feeling abortion. I don't have the courage to do what's needed. So I step out in faith. I'm not the best at it. But I give it my all.I'm not the kind of person who does hard things. But I do them anyway. It's not that I enjoy looking foolish. It's not that I like confrontations. It's not that I want to make people angry. It's not that I enjoy feeling incompetent or attempting tasks that make me feel weak, small, untalented. I don't relish tough situations, risk taking, or standing on a platform and being heard. It's not that I like what I do.I just see and know something more important than all of that. It convicts me in a way I cannot avoid, cannot quiet, cannot forget. And I just care too much to stand by and say, "Sorry . . ."Friends, you know the truth that abortion kills a living human being. You believe the truth that more than 3,000 innocent lives are being lost daily. It doesn't matter what kind of person you are. Consider what is important. Do you care? What will you do about it?Each of us can't do everything. But all of us can do something.

Easter- Where lies the miracle?

2009-04-12T09:54:00.003-06:00

Well, Happy Easter to you all. . .This sweet morning that holds so much meaning has oft been taken and ripped apart to fit men's theories as they try to explain away the love and sacrifice of our Savior to be a metaphor or parable that never really took place. Now normally I would not be blogging Easter morning but I'm not feeling well this Easter so here I find myself, and in that I read a couple of articles I probably wouldn't have otherwise and they were so good that I thought I'd share them with you. So if you have the time I hope you stop by and get as much good out of them as I did this morning.

http://randyalcorn.blogspot.com/2009/04/thoughts-on-easter-and-resurrection.html

http://randyalcorn.blogspot.com/2009/04/what-should-i-do-to-be-successful-in.html

My mother is so sweet and always makes us lovely Easter cards. This year she put a poem of sorts in that I'd like to share with you all as well

JESUS

The life of the One

Who is fully God and fully Man.

He who is the Bread of Life

Began His ministry hungry

He who is the Water of Life

Ended His ministry thirsting

Christ hungered as a man

yet He fed the hungry as God

He was weary yet He is our rest

He paid tribute yet He is our King

He was called a devil

yet He cast out demons.

He prayed, yet He hears prayer

He wept, yet He dries our tears

He was sold for 30 pieces of silver

yet He redeems sinners

He was led as a lamb to slaughter

yet He is the Good Shepherd

He gave His life

yet by dying He destroyed death.

~Author Unknown~

The miracle lies in Christ's life and death being fully man and fully GOD! And it did happen in every literal sense and is NOT just a story for a child to learn a lesson from!

Well God bless and have a wonderful Easter!

O Israel

2009-04-10T23:58:00.001-06:00

O Israel, how fickle are your ways
One moment your heart sings to the Lord
The next to Baal do your arms raise
His unashamed love cuts like a sword
Bringing you once again to your knees
To stand by His side fully restored

O Israel, in you I see my own heart
Crying out for forgiveness and mercy
But when I receive it I turn to depart
I flee to the uttermost parts of the sea
But even there I am within His reach
He holds me so that I may find jubilee

O Lord, give me a heart after Your own
That I may never stray again as did Israel
For with Your son’s blood did You my sins atone
I strive to cling to You on my own but to no avail
Only You can hold me with such strength
That no thief’s trickery may prevail

O Israel, which way will we run?
In His everlasting arms will we rest?
Or will we be lost in this world undone?
O Lord, hold me tight to Your chest
That peace I may find in You alone
Settle within whether I be cursed or blessed.

O Israel that I may never stray as you did
Again and again dependent on the day
To walk away from Him, God forbid.
May my heart stand firm against the sway
That tries to snatch me from His hand
Let this sheep come home never again to stray

~Alaina Mathers~

April '09

Reflections

2009-03-24T20:51:00.003-06:00

Black and White

2009-03-21T15:11:00.002-06:00

"What`s wrong? What`s right? Absolute confusion.What`s black? What`s white? Everything looks hazy.Such scenarios bring me to only one conclusion-Maybe we`ve all gone crazy."

~Ginny Owens, "Land of the Grey"

A Boomer in the Pew

2009-03-11T17:42:00.003-06:00

Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning:
And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.

Joel 2:12-13 (King James Version)

So mainly I'm posting to enter a contest of on the blog Boomer in the Pew but I thought I'd share the verses that I discovered through my Esther Bible study (yes I know they're in Joel :D ). The contest is for a calfskin ESV Bible. So check out these verses and the blog. Enjoy!

THE JOYS OF WINTER!

2009-02-17T18:14:00.007-07:00

Spring is in the air and our blood ;) However, winter is still blowing about us and I intend to enjoy it to the fullest. . .I love the snow and yes even the cold to a point. . .without the cold there is no reason for that cozy fire in the stove that is perfect for curling up next to with a good book and a nice cup of hot cider. Hmmm. Yes I do love the cold for that reason. .. among others.

So here are a couple of my favorite pictures from this winter. Both were taken on the drive out River Road West near Plains on my way to make taffy with my Gram. A wonderful day filled with fun and laughter. The final picture of that day is of us together with my cousin, Aletheia.

Unique

A thrill spirals down my spine
The first snowflake has fallen
For now I dread the day when
I will see that last one of the season

Smiling, I draw a deep cool breath of frosty air
Exhaling with a chuckle as my breath freezes
In mid-air so that I can not only feel it but see it
Such joy is only felt on a winter day

Snowflakes, each created perfect and unique
Sent down to earth to fall where God wills
As is each one of us, none of us the same,
Searching for the place God has for us to land

Spring air will warm the earth and the beauty
Of winter will fade, another season gone by
Snowflakes will cease to fall, but their purpose
Is fulfilled in replenishing the moisture for spring growth

So will our purpose be fulfilled in our season
Our qualities unique and perfected in our
Lord’s strength; Like the lovely snowflake
May we find our way in His grace and love.

~Alaina Mathers~

Written Feb 2009.

May we all realize God created us perfect and unique-

Just like the lovely snowflake!

The above drawing is my latest work. . well my latest work that is finished. . . ;) Yes I have started another piece, but don't look for it anytime soon . .. this piece took me nearly a year to finish and I'm sure this next one will take a substantial amount of time to finish as well. . . as I just play around with it for an hour or two here and there. . . I love this piece. It was inspired by a photo I'd found in a magazine several years ago and the idea has been rattling around my brain for a long time. I'm very pleased with the result. The little girl's name is Sophie as written on the wall and I think I'd like to write a story to go with this, but we'll see if that ever happens. . . though I do know Sophie's character would indeed be adorable and worth writing about. Finding the time and energy will be the challenge there. Hope you all enjoy!

RE: Afraid? Of What?

2009-01-21T16:22:00.005-07:00

Okay so this goes out in respose to His Handmaiden's post. . . . it doesn't go along exactly with the post. . .but the title to this poem is the same as her post so it brought it too mind so I thought I'd share it . . .because I found it in Jesus Freaks it has everything to do with persecution of Christians and was written by a friend of a martyr. The martyr's name was Jack Vinson and his story is very short so I will share it as well

The bandit told the missionary,

"I'm going to kill you. Aren't you afraid?"

Jack Vinson replied simply,

"Kill me if you wish. I will go straight to God."

E.H Hamilton wrote the following poem after his friend was killed in 1931 in China

Afraid? Of What?

To feel the spirit's glad release?

To pass from pain to perfect peace?

The strife and strain of life to cease?

Afraid-of that?

Afraid? Of what?

Afraid to see the Savior's face

To hear His welcome and to trace

The glory gleam from wounds of grace?

Afraid- of that?

Afraid? Of what?

A flash, a crash, a pierced heart;

Darkness, light, O Heaven's art!

A wound of His a counterpart!

Afraid- of that?

Afraid? Of what?

To do by death what life could not-

Baptize with blood a stony plot,

Till souls shall blossom from the spot?

Afraid-- Of that?

Jehovah is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? Jehovah is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?

~Psalm 27:1~

Artistic Ventures of 2009 (thus far :-)

2009-01-18T18:36:00.006-07:00

Sorry I have been so remiss in my posting as of late. Here is my latest play in the artistic world. . . it's a twist on photography. While I love natural photography. . . I also love photoediting and making it uniquely my own. This photo actually started out as a blurry mis-take. .. but I loved the moment so I thought I'd try to salvage it and came out with something that I like even better than the originals of that day that turned out in focus.

I've also been playing with some of Jeff and Natasha's wedding photos shown below. . . trying to blur the background so the focus is completely on the people.

Also here is my latest poem . .. in it's rough form. . .I haven't polished it up any, but not sure that I want to yet. . . giving it time to rattle around in my head before I call it finished ;-)

Will You Forget Always?

Have you forgotten how it felt that day?
That day that you looked up and your eyes met his
And you knew that you would be his forever
As you said those vows, your heart beating rapidly
With a love that couldn’t be contained
A tear fell from your eye but he caught it
Promising to cherish you always.

Have you forgotten how it felt that day?
That day you looked down into a small face
That mirrored yours. . . and hers.
Love bloomed so quickly in your heart
And in hers for this small one entrusted to you both
She took your hand in hers and whispered that she’d
Be there for you and this new little one too always.

Have you forgotten how it felt that day?
That day you said goodbye to your father
But who was there but him to hold you
As life hurt too badly to look forward or back
Once again he took you is his arms and
Brushed the tears that fall silently from your eyes
Letting you know that he’ll be there always.

Now this day you seem to have forgotten all the times
You were there for each other when the world walked away
Why would you choose the world over that?
I wish you would remember the days that
You smiled in secret cause no one else understood and
When the smallest touch sent a thrill straight to your heart
You’re perfect together. . . can you just remember that always?

I hope you all enjoy these artistic ventures as much as I did while coming into this new year though I can hardly believe 2009 is actually here. Hopefully it will be a great year! One filled with endless new possibilities.

Politics and such. . not my thing, . . . but ; )

2008-11-05T21:36:00.003-07:00

Well this blog normally won't touch on anything political, but how can one ignore such turmoil that has been swirling for the last few weeks? I just wanted to encourage those who like me were dissapointed in America's choice. I wanted to add this link to my post because Mr. Alcorn says what I've been feeling much better than I could ever hope too. http://randyalcorn.blogspot.com/2008/11/its-over-but-its-not-over-one-day-it.html
I'd also like to add the following lyrics of the hymn that has brought me so much comfort in the few days preceding and following this election. I hope they bring as much peace to you as they did me.

I Know Who Holds Tomorrow

I don't know about tomorrow;

I just live from day to day.

I don't borrow from its sunshine

For its skies may turn to grey.

I don't worry o'er the future,

For I know what Jesus said.

And today I'll walk beside Him,

For He knows what is ahead.

Many things about tomorrow

I don't seem to understand

But I know who holds tomorrow

And I know who holds my hand.

Every step is getting brighter

As the golden stairs I climb;

Every burden's getting lighter,

Every cloud is silver-lined.

There the sun is always shining,

There no tear will dim the eye;

At the ending of the rainbow

Where the mountains touch the sky.

I don't know about tomorrow;

It may bring me poverty.

But the one who feeds the sparrow,

Is the one who stands by me.

And the path that is my portion

May be through the flame or flood;

But His presence goes before me

And I'm covered with His blood.

~Ira Stanphill~

Though I may be tempted to worry about the coming years. . . it would only be a slap in the face of my dear Lord who has promised to hold me for all time and has proven again and again that He will keep that promise. So I will rest in Him who indeed does hold tomorrow and lift up my prayers for our new president.

What Autumn Brings

2008-11-03T19:40:00.009-07:00

Autumn is in full swing and with it comes hunters, voters, and hopefully snow (though I've yet to see it fall this year). The leaves have nearly all fallen off their branches, and the mornings grow chilly. It has been a wonderful Autumn thus far. Autumn is my favorite time of year. I love the riotous colors of the leaves changing and the tameracks sharing their orange specked throughout the forests. I have recently changed jobs and am now working at the little store up town called the Butcher's Nook. It has been a good change and I am enjoying the people I work with though I do miss some of those from McGowans. It has been awhile since I posted some artwork so I thought I'd put a few of my pieces on so I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoyed making them. These are mostly older pieces as my new ones are on the other computer which is off right now and I'm too comfortable here so transfer them over ;)

The painting is of a waterfall in glacier and the little boy is just froma picture I found that I thought was too cute.

This painting is of a creek in the Smokey Mountains back in Tennessee.

This horse is from a picture I found and again felt the itch to find a pencil and draw.

The Tear

2008-10-17T21:09:00.005-06:00

As some of you know, I love poetry. Nearly everything about it writing, reading, or listening to it, I simply love poetry. So I thought I'd share some poetry with you. My absolute favorite poem is by Lord Byron and is called The Tear. (You can read it below) Therefore the theme of this poetry reading so to speak is tears. . . and no I'm not in depression. I simply think that the tear is an amazing thing that truly shows the strength of your emotion and passion for someone or something whether they are happy tears or sad tears or even angry tears. When you cry it means you truly cared for something or someone.

The Tear

When Friendship or Love our sympathies move,

When Truth in a glance should appear,

The lips may beguile with a dimple or smile,

But the test of affections the Tear.

Too oft is a smile but the hypocrite's wile

To mask detestation or fear;

Give me the soft sigh whilst the soul-telling eye

Is dimm'd for a time with a Tear.

Mild Charity's glow, to us mortals below,

Shows the soul from barbarity clear;

Compassion will melt where this virtue is felt,

And its dew is diffused in a Tear.

The man doom'd to sail with the blast of the gale,

Through billows Atlantic to steer,

As he bends o'er the wave which may soon be his grave,

The green sparkles bright with a Tear.

The soldier braves death for a fanciful wreath,

In Glory's romantic career;

But he raises the foe when in battle laid low,

And bathes every wound in a Tear.

If with high-bounding pride he return to his bride,

Renouncing the gore-crimsoned spear,

All his toils repaid, when embracing the maid,

From her eyelid he kisses the Tear.

Sweet scene of my youth! Seat of Friendship and Truth

Where love chased each fast-fleeting year,

Loth to leave thee, I mourn'd, for a last look I turn'd

But thy spire was scarce seen through a Tear.

Though my vows I can pour to my Mary no more,

My Mary to love once so dear,

In the shade of her bower I remember the hour

She rewarded those vows with a Tear.

By another possest, may she live ever blest!

Her name still my heart must revere

With a sigh I resign what I once thought was mine,

And forgive her deceit with a Tear.

Ye friends of my heart, ere from you I depart

This hope to my breast is most near;

If again we shall meet in this rural retreat,

May we meet, as we part, with a Tear.

When my soul wings her flight to the regions of night,

And my corse shall recline on its beir,

As ye pass by the tomb where my ashes consume,

Oh! Moisten their dust with a Tear.

May no marble bestow the splendour of woe,

Which the children of vanity rear;

No fiction of fame shall blazon my name,

All I ask- all I wish- is a Tear.

~By Lord Byron~

The pretty Rain from thos sweet Eaves

Her unintending Eyes-

Took her own Heart, including ours,

By innocent Suprise-

The wrestle in her simple Throat

To hold the feeling down

That vanquished her- defeated Feat-

Was the Fervor's sudden Crown

~ By Emily Dickinson ~

Okay so I ran out of poems about Tears that I liked. . . ;-D So I thought I'd end with one I wrote that's just a little odd, but that I love and read over and over just because.

Orange

Color of the rain

Falling from the sun

Rising from a geyser

Color of the steam

Gray

Blue Color of a dolphin

Jumping for the sky

Crawling after Daddy

Color of a baby

Pink

Yellow

Color of a smile

Bright and shining

Soft, loving, caring

Color of a hug

Indescribable

~By Alaina Mathers~

Enjoy!

A Beautiful Fall Day

2008-09-29T11:52:00.014-06:00

The view from a small peak in the Jewel Basin area.

It has indeed proven to be a lovely autumn. We have had amazing weather for the most part. . . even if the mornings are a bit chilly. This last weekend I was able to get out of dodge so to speak and go up to Kalispell to relax and just enjoy life a little bit. I drove up Friday afternoon and got my hair cut just for fun :) Then I spent the evening with Rem and Jessica and her little ones. It was lovely! We went out to the movie, Fireproof, which was very good. The story was amazing and the message so powerful and heartwrenching. I want a love like they had at the end although I don't want to get that close to divorce ever! Sadly, it is all too common these days. The movie has created quite a buzz and I think my favorite commentary I've read about it can be found at pluggedinonline.com . . . I love so much what the commentator said that I'll paste it on here for you all

"The first time I saw this film I was alone in a cramped and cold projection booth, scribbling notes as fast as my fingers would fly. The second time, though, I was with my bride of 14 years, and I was in no mood to write a movie review. All I wanted to do was hold her hand. And when the last scene faded from the screen, I could do nothing less than turn to her and whisper, "If you ever wanted to leave me, I would try to make it so hard for you! I would do everything he just did and so much more to keep you by my side." She breathed in response, "I would never leave you." I spent the rest of the day thanking God that I was so fortunate as to never have to doubt her. "

That is just a small part of it, the rest was very good as well. It is so neat that this film can touch lives like that and even inspire already solid marriages to stay on that solid ground as well as hopefully inspire shaky marriages to find that solid ground in Christ and His love.

It was a fun evening. Saturday proved to be as much fun. I stayed at Gram and Papa's for the weekend, they had to leave early for farmer's market but thankfully I was able to sleep in some ;) then Rem and I took Rajoice and Raydeemie to look around Farmer's market and visit Gram and Papa. We decided to have lunch with them at one so we had some time to kill. . .two and a half hours actually. So we went down to Lawrence Park (I think that's what it was called at least ;) and played by the river. I got some darling portraits of the girls. Then we went out for coffee and headed to walk around the grounds of the Conrad Mansion. They are done up so beautifully. That's where the picture of the girls and I was taken. That afternoon, Rem and I drove to the Jewel Basin and took a short hike to a low peak, but the view was still pretty much amazing! It was such a pretty fall day! The leaves turning all the most wonderful shades of red, yellow, and orange. The mountains rising all around and the sun shining down. God is truly an artist and paints the most wonderful of days!

The other view from that same peak.

Rem playing around on the rocks on the hike up to the peak.

Raijoice, Alaina, and Raydeemie smiling for the camera by the Conrad Mansion.

Rajoice and Raydeemie posing so sweetly at Lawrence Park.

Raijoice down by the river. How pretty and grown up she has gotten to be!

Raydeemie also down by the river. She is growing up quickly as well. Both of them are turning into sweet young ladies.

Here's big brother Rem with Raijoice and Raydeemie crossing the footbridge over the Stillwater River. We had a wonderful morning together!

Someday Soon

2008-09-19T20:46:00.009-06:00

This post mostly goes out to my dear brother Remington, my best friend Katie, and all those other singles who are just waiting on God to bring them that special someone to have and to hold for the rest of their days. These are poems I have written as I have sat alone in the evenings after my family has gone to bed scattered with my floral photography of this summer. What can I say I'm a romantic at heart and though he's not here right now someday (soon I hope) he will be and I hope he will be all the things I have written about and more.

Someday Soon I’ll Stop Missing You
Tonight I wonder where you are,
Do you miss me?
Cause I miss you with all my heart.
It’s not even logical,
There’s no rhyme,
There’s no reason to this pain,
That has settled in my eyes.
But I miss you tonight anyway.
I want to feel your skin touch mine
Your fingertips to caress my hair,
Your lips to press against my cool brow,
I tremble at the mere thought,
You here with me.
Catching me when life hurts to much
Like it does tonight
Your healing touch to wipe away my tears
That fall silently ‘cause you’re not here
I want to hear you whisper goodbye
Your voice promising me we’ll be together soon
That you’ll never leave my side again
I need you tonight and you’re not here
How is it possible?
I miss you so much.
But how can I miss someone
I’ve never even met?
Is it possible?
Too long for my eyes to meet yours
When I don’t even know your name,
Someday it will be
We’ll remember the yesterdays
Spent holding hands tenderly
You will brush back my hair
As it blows in the wind
And I will be lost in your sweet eyes
You will hold my hand in yours
And I will give you my heart
Someday you will come.
Oh just let it be soon.
Come home soon to claim this heart
Come take my hand
So I can stop missing you.
So that my laughter can join yours
Someday soon come to this place
To walk with me along the river
Under the shining stars and full moon
We can talk of the sweet yesterdays
And the many tomorrows
Our dreams will join as our hearts do
Someday soon I hope to stop missing you.

A Moment in Time

What else is there today?
What is the meaning of it all?
How can I go on in this race?
How do I understand the whys?
Where is the answer to be found?
Where are your arms when I need them?
What do I do until you come and find me?
What is the meaning of your not being here now?
How does this love work?
How can I keep going without it?
Where is the softness of your lips on my brow?
Where are your hands when my tears fall silently?
What am I to do until you are here to wipe them away?
What will happen in this lifetime of mine?
Will it ever join yours?
Will you ever whisper sweet words in my ear?
When will the time be right for you to hold me?
When will you come and claim my heart?
All these questions asked remain unanswered,
But I will wait until the day the answers come
Until the day that your arms wrap me in sweet embrace
When my lips softly touch yours as you sigh
And brush my hair back from my face
And wipe away every tear that falls from my eye.

May I Give You Mine?
My heart trembles at the sight of you
Your presence steals any thought
You take my breath away
Do I turn your head?
Can you get lost in the blue of my eyes?
Does my soft touch feel like heaven?
I hope so but mostly I need to know
If you love me for the real me?
Do you want to know that I love to:
Dance in the rain
Laugh without abandon
Cuddle in front of a fire
Try to touch the stars.
I need to know that you will love me when:
I play in the dirt
Swim in the sea
Try to fly from the mountaintop
Will you join me or
Think I’ve gone crazy?
I need to know your dreams.
But do you want to know mine?

Do you love to:
Walk along the beach hand in hand
Go for long drives in the woods
Breathe in the scent of a spring rain
Try to rope the moon?
Do you need to know?
That I’ll love you forever
No matter what happens
I will follow you to the
Ends of the earth and beyond
I will be lost in your embrace
And never want to leave
I need to know if you:
Will you hold me for all time?
Catch me when I fall?
Brush away my tears?
I want to tell you everything
But will you give me your heart?
And may I give you mine?

Christ is my comfort each and everyday and keeps me going and loving, living, and more joyous than imaginable as well as at peace in learning contendedness (Is that a word?) where He has me planted. Even so it is fun to dream and write about the day when I will have someone by my side to go with, to love with, to live with, and to rejoice in the Lord with.

Darling Little Girl

2008-09-10T21:17:00.022-06:00

I wrote the following poem when I was a juinor in highschool for Adeline. Rayia was pregnant with this sweet little one that we so love now. The above picture was taken last summer when Rayia and Jonathan visited while Jayme and Jessica were here. The day was very warm and we took Adeline and Titus to play in the small pool we have up town. I believe Adeline had fallen in the water and was a little unsure of being set down into it again even though she still wanted to play in it. The picture below was taken this last spring/summer when Rayia visited for the fourth of July.

Baby

Ten tiny fingers curl around my thumbs

Especially cute when smiling happily
Needin' hugs and lovin's all the time

Ten tiny toes just discovered
In need of instruction and loving guidance
Needing sleepy times on my lap with a story book
Yearning to roll, crawl, and eventually toddle about

Frowns and smiles to delight everyone around
It begs to be caressed, oh skin so soft
Needing comforting arms after crashing to the ground
Giggling and cooing in the most charming manner
Entangling my heart in love
Red rosy cheeks split with a grin
So dear to my heart you are sweet baby

Adeline has indeed proven to be dear to my heart as my loving little niece along with many of my sweet little cousins whose picture are shown below. What darling little girls I have been blessed with being able to be apart of their girlhoods.

Torrance, Aurora's oldest, sitting at her Aunt Mindy's

Gracie, Doug's youngest, napping at our house while Tara was babysitting them this summer.

Little Remember at Rem's birthday and below is sweet Haylee, Aurora's youngest girl.

Isabella and Ivy, Mindy's two girls, enjoying the day fishin with their Nana and Papa.

Here's is Cassie Jo, Aurora's 2nd girl.

Adeline again playing with Gram's kitty.

Girlhood
Welcomed with tears and oh so much joy
Sleepy times being held in gentle arms
Crawling after Daddy and copying Mommy
Coos, giggles, little words, and tiny steps
Hugs and Kisses; Laughter and love

Dancing across the sky in the living room
Tickling fingers and comforting arms
Lil’ Sis arrives welcomed the same but by three
Lost a tooth, first day of school, and new friends
Hugs and Kisses; Laughter and love

The above poem was written when I was a sophmore in highschool based on my own girlhood. It always amazes me when God blesses us with simple everyday things. There is a saying that goes something like this: Enjoy the little things in life because some day you'll look back and realize they were the big things. It is so true and a lesson that I often have to remind myself of.

Celebrating

2008-09-07T20:16:00.036-06:00

Rem has so sweetly allowed me to adopt him as my big brother that I couldn't resist making the trip up to celebrate him turning 21! Plus he had just gotten his new horse, Bolder. So on August 23rd I traveled up to Kalispell to enjoy a day with my family up there.

Here's Rem holding his sweet nephew, Honour.

Here's Honour looking serious. He wasn't too sure about me. I haven't been around him enough.

Here's Papa holding his little great-granddaughter and Honour's little sister, Remember. We had a great time celebrating Rem and enjoying each other's company.

Here's Honour and Remeber together. So sweet.

Here's little Remember chewing away on her fingers with her big beautiful eyes.

We enjoyed a fun BBQ at Ray and Rhonda's. It was a wonderful day. One I will remember for a long time.

2008-09-05T17:05:00.009-06:00

Well it's been a while since I've posted anything on here. But I have so enjoyed viewing Jessica and Rayia's fun blogs that I can't resist joining in the fun. Hopefully in the near future I will be sharing the happenings of my life and my artistic endeavors. This is a photo I took of Tara's horse, Harley when we were out riding in the hills behind our house. Here's Tara with Harley. We've got two very fun horses and great trails to hit for a wonderful afternoon.

A good time had. . .

2008-06-09T12:32:00.004-06:00

Where would we be without good friends and crazy fun times?

I sure would be lost in a pit of lonliness and despair.

Summer has attempted to rise it's sleepy head and winter tucks it's in for the night.

But we refuse to allow it.

Stubbornly stood the white frigid man at the end of the drive.

Wooden nose drooping and the moss combover for hair breezing in the wind.

Once again the moon shines brightly as we drive away laughing, leaving behind us a memior of winter and a good time had.

Settling In

2008-02-22T23:09:00.003-07:00

The New Year has come in and is starting to settle.
Last night the moon shone full once again.
Reflecting off the beautiful Clark Flork,
it's glow made for a wonderful evening.
And it made me think what a wonderful
Creator, Father, Savior, and Guide we have.
The moon is like God's light to us in this dark world.
We have settled into this place in which we don't belong.
We are to be in the world, but not of it.
However, where is that line drawn?
We must look for God's moonlight in our life
through the foggy night which Lucifer casts.
Let His glow bathe us in His loving kindness
and settle in that instead of this world.

2007-10-08T23:16:00.000-06:00

Fall is has arrived with it's golden leaves and chilly mornings. It's time to bring out the hoodies and start the fire.

Work at the store has been crazy busy with the big sale. Bible study and Awana has started again. School too. It's time to resharpen the pencils as well as the young minds dulled by lazy summertime.

God's blessings are abundant and His grace never ceases to amaze. It's time dig into His word and seek His direction in life.

2007-10-08T11:16:00.001-06:00

Christ

Loving

Caring

Almighty

Comforting

Most High

Wonderful

Always

Faithful

Perfect

Awesome

Creator

Savior

Light

Glory

Abba

My Father and Friend

All I Need

2007-10-07T11:55:00.001-06:00

Hands of Life

Tiny fingers grasping at life

Thumbs taste so good to small ones
First steps taken with fingers holding tight

Aglow with delight as little hands play patty-cake

Holding Mommy's hand to cross the street
Trying hard to make those hands draw

Fingers clutching Mama's flower

Twirling high in Daddy's arms

Thumb wars with cousins are so fun

Fingers tingle from a caterpillar's hairy legs

Hands waving furiously at Grandma and Grandpa

Peeking between fingers to see the suprise
Clasping hands in prayer before bed

Hand to foot in a cart wheel

Hands grip the steering wheel
A finger taps your shoulder lightly
Walking on a moonlit road, hand in hand
Arms linked, Daddy walks you down the aisle
Beach walks, fingers draw hearts in the sand
Hands massage outstretched stomach
Recieve a punch from a fist inside

Arms gently cradling a tiny babe
A yawn accompanies arms stretching

Reaching down fingers caress his forehead

Smiling with glee as his thumb slides into place

Hand in hand, you watch the children play

Fingers intertwine years down the road

There is wonder in the hands of life

~Alaina Mathers

Charcoal drawing also done by Alaina Mathers.