Liles Files

Schilling on son with Asperger's

2010-07-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

Jon liles visits Liles Files: Why a Starbucks Could work in Italy

2010-07-14T01:13:00.000-07:00

PLeAse Welcome Guest writer Jon Liles.

Some friends were visiting us here in Italy about two years ago when one of them popped the question, "Is there a Starbucks in Rome"? I was in shock. Starbucks got their idea from Italy! The Cappuccino's here are by far the best I have ever had. At that time, I agreed with many of the articles you can find online that there is just no need for Starbucks in Italy. But something is happening here in Italy that is changing everything. When you visit a McDonadl's or Burger King here you would be hard pressed to see the established, seasoned Italian citizen waiting in line for their value meal - but you do see their children. Tons of them! Every time we go into Rome the American style restaurants are packed with ragazzi anywhere from 16-35 years old. It has taken twenty years, but McDonald's is not just surviving - it is thriving. Why? They offer spacious, air conditioned environments with free WiFi (all of which are hard to find in Rome) and get this, a top notch coffee bar serving traditional Italian style coffee along with pastries. My wife was talking with an Italian friend of the younger persuasion the other day and she said, "I wish we had a Starbucks here." She is looking for an environment that serves great coffee and snacks and has ample room to study or hang out. Isn't this how Starbucks works? Starbucks would be offering a new generation their own identity along with a hard to find combination of services, not to mention clean restrooms in Italy! So, when do you think Starbucks will make it to Italy?

Article from the Easter Egg Hunt 2010

2010-06-19T08:08:00.000-07:00

here I am

2010-06-15T05:18:00.000-07:00

Yay it is summer! Although I have neglected my blog, I haven't forgotten about it. And I have had plenty of blog worthy stories to share, just short on time and pithy writing skills. In the last school year we were privileged to host many friends and family in our home and share our new world with them. I love hosting.

The children finished school more than successfully on Friday the 12th. We couldn't be more proud. I am happy to say official classes for Jon and I are done for the year as well. We still intend on working hard thru the summer though.

We have had several events for our new friends in the community. They were a huge success and I am excited to say that the Easter egg hunt with the resurrection story was printed up in the local annual school paper. A picture and a very good article as well. We are pleased and many of the other parents and children wanted to meet me and find out if we were doing it again next year and if they could join in! YAY!!

The last blog mentioned that Kent was working with a team at the Rome University. This did not prove to be a venue we wanted to continue. In all honesty I believe that God was protecting Kent. We were able to find some help within 10 minutes of our home (thru my dear friend here.) He is a doctor specifically for this disorder and because of Kent's previously diagnosed condition from the States... One meeting and he signed papers and we were able to present them to the school for an assistant for Kent to help him for next year! We are very pleased about this. We are also looking into what it would take to get a special needs dog for Kent just for his aspergers. (that is a topic for another post) but something to pray for all the same!!

Ethan has been tested in his faith this year. I am glad to tell you that my happy Ethan is surfacing some days more than others. I sometimes wonder if culture shock hit him later than the rest of us, or now that we are adjusting he could have his time of reality. God has been good and faithful in his love toward Ethan and I TRUST Him so much.

Natalie performed in her class play. It was superb! She played "happy" one of the seven dwarfs! Her Italian is PERFECT. Everyone here marvels at the way she has such an amazing Roman accent! She has received all 10s (A's) and her manuscript writing is outstanding. I will have to post an example soon.

Thank you to all of you who pray for us. We are encouraged when we remember those at home who love us.

Listen to this.

2009-10-24T03:27:00.000-07:00

The following are amazing acts that our God has shown to our family and our ministry here in Rome. I am so excited to tell you about them that I can't type fast enough.
Thank you for praying for Kent. Looking back I have so much insight as to what God was doing to better him as a person and us a as a family. But if I would have found out about his condition several years ago we would not be on the path we are on, which would be a HUGE mistake. Instead we continued to trust and follow God and thru that we were led to Rome. We had wanted to start in Milan but as doors closed and others opened for us to be here we walked thru them. If I had to describe last year to you, it would be best summed up as the hardest year of my life. Too many details to go into now, but I see how GOD IS SOVEREIGN. We came back from the summer in America, this year ready for whatever the Lord had for us but not expecting such amazing blessing to be poured out. I guess all along His blessing was being poured out we just didn't understand it.
Kent has been accepted into a study at the Rome University. There is a team of doctors who are currently working with him, and accurately defining his diagnosis. Along with that they have taken it upon them selves to call the school and talk to the teachers and headmaster to determine the best way to teach and help Kent. After he is officially diagnosed the school will apply for a special teacher to assist Kent in class and help him to stay on task. This will help him so much, especially with the language barrier. (which by the way is costing us nothing because we were miraculously granted our residence cards for 10 YEARS!! allowing us to apply for the health care here as well.)

Speaking of language, God has also supplied a tutor for the boys to help them with their homework one night a week and to be able to continue to study in Italian. We are hoping to schedule 2 nights but are waiting for God's timing and supply. We are overwhelmed with the compassion the community has shown to help us. If you didn't know the boys are enrolled in Italian public school. They are still learning Italian.

As Jon and I went to sign up for language studies this year, we ran into our teacher from the year before. There was a huge line but she ushered us right in and said let's get you signed up. When we went to pay she said there was no charge....Huh!? One of those things we didn't question but walked out smiling as God continued his work.

Okay so here is even some more BIG news. After picking the children up a few weeks ago from school. Kent's teacher inquired about our church in Rome. She thought maybe we would be able host the class Christmas program this year and if Jon wouldn't mind, to read the Christmas story! I stood there stunned! AMAZING, we would have Kent's whole class and family to our church this Christmas. God continues to open doors and we are just his vessel.

Although I miss home more than you can imagine, I am starting to see that God wants to do great things in Italy and because I have an intimate relationship with Him there is no where else I would rather be. I can't tell you how much we covet your prayers, how thankful we are for your support and ask that you continue to lift us up, because if you look at two posts earlier...everyone of our prayers were answered!!! We will continue to lift you all up as well.

Better Late than Never

2009-09-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

About our son, Kent

2009-09-02T12:54:00.000-07:00

Our son Kent has recently been diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome. This has come as a shock and somewhat of a relief. We knew Kent had been struggling at school in certain situations and wanted to know how we could best help him. We didn’t know if his struggles came from culture shock or something else. Would you please pray 1) that Kent would gain insight into how to cope with Aspergers, 2) that God would grant us grace and strength for Kent, 3) that his teachers would accept this news with understanding and empathy, 4) and that we would be able to find a specialist and support group here in Rome to help us through this? It was very hard leaving the States two weeks ago without a clear picture of how to move ahead. We are determined God loves Kent completely and will use this in Kent’s life for His glory.
Thank you for praying!

To look up more info about Aspergers

Clay Marzo click here
New movie "Adam" click here
Mayo Clinic click here

YAY I WON!!!!

2009-09-01T14:51:00.000-07:00

I am soo excited. I just won 6 prints from sara's art house.click here I have followed her blog for a long time and just had never been able to pick just one of her prints to be my favorite. SO, I entered her contest, and I won!! I can't believe it. I am sooo happy. You have to go check out her blog. Her amazing paintings sell on etsy and I have been so encouraged by her work. She is on my favorite blog list too. Thank you so much SARA!!! You have made my week!

Top things I already miss about summer

2009-08-31T09:48:00.001-07:00

1. Chocolate chip cookies

2. Dr Pepper

3. Hong Kong Inn

4. My Church

5. air conditioning

6. english

7. swimming

8. Brittany

9. Jessica

10. VIOLET!!!

11. Taco Bell

12. Dryer

13. Campbell 16

14. Sky and Chad

15. garage sales

16. Hugs from my Dad

17. Swinging in porch swing

18. Barnes and Noble

19. WALMART

20. Strawberry cake

21. Mc Donald's sweet tea

22. Grilling out

23. Weiner roast

24. Smores

25. Family fun with mark and cindy and skyler chad barrett mom and dad

26. MY MOM!!!

27. Weddings

28. potholders

29. crock pot

30. night sounds

31. smell of cut grass

32. biking

33. library

34. birthday parties

35. new births

36. air soft wars

37. country music

38. gardening

39. fire flys

40. dancing with my friends

41. Watching Nat learn how to ride a bike, swim, do a head stand, skate, and read

42. Q doba

43. sidewalk chalk

44. sleeping in

45. summer rain

I am so thankful for such a wonderful summer. I will Never for get it!

Fun in Colorado

2009-07-15T15:10:00.000-07:00

Nat's 6th birthday

2009-04-21T13:59:00.000-07:00

our day at Vatican City and Castello St Angello

2009-04-18T07:40:00.000-07:00

L'Aquila (Italy) Earthquake

2009-04-15T11:00:00.001-07:00

Earthquake news

2009-04-08T15:08:00.000-07:00

Words can't express how grateful we are to you for the concern and prayers you have lifted up on our behalf. We are grateful!! To those who are wondering we were with in 70 miles of the Earthquake and felt the tremor and the aftershock. There have been so many stories to tell of those who have been affected by this tragedy.

On Monday we drove up to the site and saw first hand the rubble and the people. It was sobering! What a mess! What an opportunity! I WISH WE KNEW MORE OF THE LANGUAGE!!!! AHHHH. God knows.

The church we are attending here in Rome has a sister church in the city of L'Aquila. The pastor and his family lost their home and the church. They are now living at a campsite several miles away. We are grateful for their safety but they are in the need of EVERYTHING...We are planning to go up there to help them and then reach out to others thru them. (they know the language, the people, etc.) Please pray for Georgio and his family.

If you feel compelled to give to this cause please do. We would love your involvement and so would the people of Italy.

Aww the Kids...They are growing up so fast!

2009-03-06T01:32:00.000-08:00

Jon Preaching

2009-03-06T01:31:00.000-08:00

Jon had the opportunity to preach this last Sunday at the church here in Rome. It was a great opportunity and he delivered the message God gave him really well. Bill was the translator and he did an excellent job of inflecting when Jon did and delivered the message fantatsic too. Many were touched by the scripture.

Look what we found here!!!

2009-03-06T01:28:00.000-08:00

Taco Bell Sauce

2009-03-06T01:24:00.000-08:00

So there is not any mexican food here. We all miss it soo much. Thanks mom and dad for the sauce. We can start having our weekly taco pizza. YUM!

government has conceded that vaccines cause autism

2009-02-25T13:29:00.000-08:00

Many of you know my dear friends Andrew and Angie Even. Their son was diagnosed with austism. Here is an article that she sent to me today. Please read it and also remember to pray for them. If you would like to get the word out copy and paste this article and email it to your friends. They are missionaries to Chile.

The News!

Government Again Concedes Vaccines Cause Autism

Mysterious Vaccine Court created in 1986 by the pharmaceutical industry, with the support of Congress, rules in favor of Bailey Banks against HHS.

Los Angeles - February 24, 2009 - Generation Rescue, Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey's Los Angeles-based non-profit autism organization, today announced that the United States Government has once again conceded that vaccines cause autism. The announcement comes on the heels of the recently unsealed court case of Bailey Banks vs. HHS. The ruling states, "The Court found that Bailey would not have suffered this delay but for the administration of the MMR vaccine...a proximate sequence of cause and effect leading inexorably from vaccination to PDD [Autism]."

In a curious and hypocritical method of operation, the mysterious Vaccine Court not only protects vaccine makers from liability but supports a policy that has tripled the number of vaccines given to U.S. children - all after being made aware of the fact that these vaccines do, in fact, cause autism and repeatedly ruling in favor of families with children hurt by their vaccines.

"It was heartbreaking to hear about Bailey's story, but through this ruling we are gaining the proof we need to open the eyes of the world to the fact that vaccines do, in fact, cause autism," said Jenny McCarthy, Hollywood actress, autism activist, best-selling author and Generation Rescue board member. "Bailey Banks' regression into autism after vaccination is the same story I went through with my own son and the same story I have heard from thousands of mothers and fathers around the country. Our hope is that this ruling will influence decision and policy-makers to help the hundreds of thousands of children and families affected by this terrible condition."

Banks vs. HHS is the second known case where the Vaccine Court could not deny the overwhelming evidence showing vaccines caused a child's autism. The first was the case of Hannah Poling in March of 2008, where the court found in her favor and awarded her family compensation.

Jim Carrey, Hollywood legend and Generation Rescue board member, reacted to the news, "It seems the U.S. government is sending mixed messages by telling the world that vaccines don't cause autism, while, at the same time, they are quietly managing a separate 'vaccine court' that is ruling in favor of affected families and finding that vaccines, in fact, were the cause. For most of the autism community the question is no longer whether vaccines caused of their child's autism. The question is why is their government only promoting the rulings that are in favor of the vaccine companies."

Why is a secret court, which no one knows about or understands, quietly paying these families for vaccine injuries and autism? Deirdre Imus, Generation Rescue board member and founder of the Deirdre Imus Environmental Center for Pediatric Oncology says, "Over the past 20 years, the vaccine court has dispensed close to $2 billion in compensation to families whose children were injured or killed by a vaccine. I am not against vaccines and my own child has been vaccinated. But, I share the growing concerns of many parents questioning the number of vaccines given to children today, some of the toxic ingredients in vaccines, and whether we know enough about the combination risks associated with the multiple vaccines given to children during critical developmental windows."

To help spread the word of the Banks ruling, Generation Rescue also bought a full-page ad that will run in the USA Today on 02/25/2009, which has a daily circulation of 2,272,815.

Generation Rescue seeks to answer these questions and many more on a daily basis as they fight for the truth and to recover children with autism around the world. To learn more please visit www.generationrescue.org, write to media@generationrescue.com

About Generation Rescue
Generation Rescue is an international movement of scientists, physicians and parent-volunteers researching the causes and treatments for autism and helping thousands of children begin biomedical treatment.

Contact:
Peter Nilsson, President, Performance Public Relations for Generation Rescue
858.880.5466 x227 and peter@performpr.com

To help spread the word of this tremendous victory, Generation Rescue has placed a powerfully written full-page ad in The USA Today, which hits the stands today, Wednesday, February 25th. Please purchase the paper and hang the ad proudly.

Generation Rescue - Press Release

Below is the press release that was issued to the media this morning. If you have any media contacts, please feel free to forward this to them with encouragement to tell this story.

Thank you for your support and efforts on this important day.

the boys for Carnivale

2009-02-24T15:27:00.000-08:00

Today was carnivale

2009-02-24T15:25:00.000-08:00

Today is carnivale...kinda like our halloween. It is a BIG deal here for sure. The costumes are very elaborate. The kids got to go to school dressed up and I even got to make homemade cupcakes to send to the class. Just like when I was a kid. (a long time ago.) I have a new appreciation for my mother. We had to make our own pom poms...but I thought it was cute that Nat wanted to be a Cowboys Cheerleader. That was one of her favorite reality shows in the States. She would get teary when the girls were told they didn't make the squad. Too cute!!

Bible Club

2009-02-24T15:13:00.000-08:00

First four days of creation.

I got a library card!

2009-02-24T15:09:00.000-08:00

This is the book I checked out with my card. And no, it wasn't for the kids. It is for me...It is a story about happiness and a sheep named Selma.

Go!!! Time is running out!!

2009-02-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

Okay here is one last plea...I am only 13 votes behind now...if by any chance you haven't voted yet there is just a few hours left...Hurry on over (here) and be sure to cast your vote for #12 (italy). It will make you feel really good I am sure, and I could win a much needed gift card to Itunes. Thank you so much to all those who have voted and who are going to vote!!!! This has been a lot of fun...

A give away!!!

2009-02-21T02:29:00.000-08:00

I follow the Place of Peace Blog... This week she is doing a give away. Go check it out and post a comment. You just might win a great giveaway!Click here
Thanks Shilo this is FUN!

HELP ME WIN!!!!!!

2009-02-17T00:18:00.000-08:00

Help me win a gift card to I tunes. Vote for the picture with the cherries...picture #12 It is marked Italy. There are a lot of great entries and the competition is high so I could use your help!!!Thanks for taking the time to check out this site. It has been a huge encouragement to me this last year. click here
BEC

Birthday Party

2009-02-15T11:28:00.000-08:00

Samuele's Birthday Party on Saturday. He turned 3 years. The children had so much fun!

King and Queen

2009-02-15T11:21:00.000-08:00

After church on Sunday.

takhomasak

2009-02-15T11:19:00.000-08:00

This is in one of the tavola's (pizza stops) by our language school in Frascatti. We have gotten to know the owner pretty well. He knows what to give us when we walk in the door and practices his english with us while we practice our Italian.

Nat's Teacher

2009-02-15T11:14:00.000-08:00

this a pic of one of Nat's teachers. she is sooo sweet.

A day to remember!

2009-02-02T02:15:00.000-08:00

Nat's first Day of School

2009-02-02T02:10:00.000-08:00

Sheep crossing

2009-02-02T02:07:00.000-08:00

We really did have to wait for the sheep to cross the road.

cramming it in

2009-01-22T01:35:00.000-08:00

There is so much to cram into this post. But I want to share with you all that God has been doing!

First- THANK YOU for praying for our permessos...unfortunately there was a little glitch BUT God did grant them to us. This is a huge huge blessing. Please continue to pray. Kent's name was spelled wrong on each one of the cards so they had to send them back. They told us it could be up to four months before we get them back. AHH!! We desperately need them before then but I know GOD is in control and I trust Him. Jon and I both saw the mistake and in 10 seconds had to make the decision to let them know or run away with them. I am not sure but even more delays could have encountered later on had we taken the cards. I know we made the right decision. But it cost us another trip down to the police station and all new passport photos. SO KEEP PRAYING!!! Since we have been approved I am hoping the process will go a little more faster than if we were applying from scratch...

PRAISE #2 EDITED FOR PRIVACY

PRAISE #3 God again answered prayer! Natalie has been unable to start school this year because the class was full. Thanks to my new friend...she spoke with the headmaster several times and he concluded it would be better if Natalie started now to help the teachers next year and Natalie to adjust to the language. HUGE!! She was like 7th on the list. I have a meeting with him on Saturday and my new friend (who speaks many languages) has offered to go with me to help translate. We have a very HAPPY NATALIE!

PRAISE #4 Jon was given the opportunity to go to Belgium for a few days with some other European missionaries. Thankfully his trip was generously paid for. I know he will come back refreshed and energized. What an amazing gift that God gave him.

PRAISE #5 We have been given a chance to go to Springfield for Skyler's wedding. We are so excited to get to see family and share this amazing moment in Skyler's life. We will be in the States for a few weeks and will also be taking the opportunity to visit some potential supporting churches.

I am thanking God today and will not take for granted to ask you to pray specifically again. God heard us and He did amazing things this week to encourage our hearts and renew us. This can only mean there is a battle ahead. So I am sharpening my sword.

Out and about Saturday

2009-01-18T09:43:00.000-08:00

Cappucino anyone?

2009-01-18T09:30:00.000-08:00

So how does McDonalds serve your coffee? This comes with a croissant for .80 cent euro. So yummy!

things to pray about

2009-01-13T15:56:00.000-08:00

Jon and I are so thankful for all of your prayers and support. We have definitely known there were specific times when people were praying for us. Please don't stop. Please know we pray for you too.

There are a few things that we would love for you to lift up specifically.

#1 We are in need of the rest of our paperwork. Until we receive our permesso's we can't apply for residence and so on. We have been expecting them since the beginning of November. We go to the police station every week to check for them.

#2 Pray for the relationships with our new friends. God has allowed us to become friends with so many wonderful Italian people...I can't wait to see who is first!! Then second and then and then...

#3Thank Him...
-we are all feeling better!!!!!
-we are in language school
-The children are doing well in school and have made friends. This is huge for all of us.
-We were able to open an Italian bank account even though we don't have our permessos... this has been a mess to pay our bills and our rent. We have been running around to ATMs to get the cash to pay the rent...CRAZY. (I say "we" it's Jon, I don't even know our pin number.)
-We have gained some support while on the field and we are making plans to try to partner with more churches this summer.
-For the internet!! Skype, email, blogs, etc...

Some may think I obsess about home; but you all are our life line to being able to stay here. Thank you, thank you for investing in us and for a cause bigger than any of us can imagine.

fun night out

2009-01-10T17:02:00.000-08:00

some oragami, some games, some friends, some food, SOME FUN!

this one is pretty small

2009-01-10T16:57:00.000-08:00

So Quaint

2009-01-10T16:55:00.000-08:00

Doesn't this look like it came right out of a book...we can't wait to try it sometime

Ethan's 9th Birthday!!

2009-01-03T15:30:00.000-08:00

Tired

2009-01-03T15:25:00.000-08:00

meet the owners

2009-01-03T15:24:00.000-08:00

our landlord stopped by...luckily we had just finished deep cleaning the house. phwew!!!!

an outing

2009-01-03T15:21:00.000-08:00

The ride of my life

2008-12-31T04:02:00.000-08:00

I am not going to lie... this year has just been one big roller coaster ride. We basically waited and waited in line...jumped on and barely got our belts fastened and we were riding as fast as the car could take us. There have been dips and turns that weren't expected, but views only those on the ride could experience. The highs have been so overwhelming...when looking back we have seen God's hand guiding us thru what we would never have thought possible.

Looking back at 2008 there are many reflections to ponder but most of all I ponder at His work in my life. I have heard many tell about their ride on the roller coaster and everyone says something different...but like most rides...they wait in line again just to experience the rush...and sometimes longer just so they can have the front seat!!!

Facing this Christmas for the first time was a challenge. I made it thru with flying colors until Saturday. Then it hit...I didn't even see it coming. The tears flowed and I again felt the overwhelming realization I had missed the holidays with my parents and my brother. It was never going to be the same even if I went home. Whatever "home" means now.

I realized though, that it is because of this season that we are called away to this duty of service. Without Christmas there would be no good news to share. That put things in perspective. The orchestration of God's plan is in the minute details and I seem to forget that.

I have thought of many friends in far away places who are doing the work. And sometimes that means some days are just surviving. Well friends, we made it thru the Holidays and we faced the hardest month to be away from friends and our family and we became closer to our own. More important we have leaned on God and the relationship He has built in us and He will renew us for the coming year and each morning--because His mercies are new.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Bless His Name

2008-12-30T07:46:00.000-08:00

Psalm 103:1-4

King David learned the powerful habit of telling himself the truth. "Bless the Lord, O my soul." That's within me, bless His holy name." That's a habit worth practicing. Train your soul to bless God. And how do you do that? By not forgetting his benefits. Whatever might be going wrong in your life, whatever might be a disappointment, even a serious illness or death, does not affect God's eternal blessing on you as His child. He has redeemed your life from destruction, and He crowns you with loving kindness, which means grace and mercy. He pours out His tenderness. He heals all your diseases, not necessarily in time, but in eternity. And He forgives all your iniquities. Don't ever forget His benefits:forgiveness, absolute perfection in heaven , freedom from all sickness and death, abundant mercy, and everything your need. May everything that is in you bless His holy name!
Jon MacArthur
Something to meditate on this week. Tell yourself the Truth.

my plate

2008-12-26T06:12:00.000-08:00

I forgot to post my Christmas dinner plate! It was soo goood!!!

2008 Christmas Poem.

2008-12-25T12:31:00.000-08:00

Don't forget to check out this year's poem at the A to Z poems blog to the right.(or here) Our family has a tradition that has lasted many years and only a few poems can't be found.

christmas crafts

2008-12-25T12:22:00.000-08:00

These are the crafts the children made from scatch at their school. They did a fantastic job and I wish we had done stuff like this...all we got was a piece of manilla paper to draw on. Good job boys!!

Christmas Eve Traditions

2008-12-25T12:17:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas Dinner

2008-12-25T12:13:00.000-08:00

family picture

2008-12-25T12:11:00.000-08:00

this isn't a watson photo but I always get a picture in front of the Christmas Tree with the family!!

another gift!

2008-12-25T11:58:00.000-08:00

From Popi and mops! Thank you watched it today it was sooo cute.

Some gifts

2008-12-25T10:29:00.000-08:00

Some Gifts from Grandpa and Grandma Hillenburg

Meat Market

2008-12-23T18:29:00.001-08:00

This is our neighborhood meat market. It used to be a intimidating. Okay it still is a little bit. The butchers there are sooo nice to us.

Short video clip

2008-12-21T16:12:00.000-08:00

Christmas Treats

2008-12-21T16:08:00.000-08:00

Yummy treats from the coffe bar by our church. Check out the chocolate manger scene! UNBELIEVABLE.

From tonight's Christmas Concert

2008-12-18T13:18:00.000-08:00

Buon Natale!!! They couldn't get the lighting to work and there were no microphones this year because it is too expensive to buy the batteries?! (wishing we would have packed that sound system now.) I have never seen such chaos. I felt like I was at rehearsal. It was fun though and sooo many people. This is just for the 3rd grade classes. There are photos with the children's teachers and friends. We couldn't get any good video of the Italian songs they sang either. The boys at the very end were chosen to come to the front and say to the crowd Have a Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year! (in English and Italian!!) The kids were clapping and cheering for them. It was GREAT!! So many families we connected with tonight among all the chaos. Thanks for the prayers for my children in school. It has been an interesting semester but we couldn't havemade it without them.

Our Italian Friends!!!

2008-12-17T08:40:00.000-08:00

Today's outing

2008-12-16T13:17:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I forget where we live. We needed some things downtown Rome and passed by these places as if we had seen them a hundred times. I love this city!

Gifts

2008-12-16T13:11:00.000-08:00

These are the bags I made for the children's teachers. They were filled with home made cookies...(chocolate chip and snickerdoodles) 2 Christmas CDs (Barlow Girl and Casting Crowns) an ornament and a picture of the family. They were all so surprised to get one. Especially the headmaster. Jon enjoyed playing Santa Clause. I enjoyed giving something to them.

Daisy and Jasmine

2008-12-08T15:27:00.000-08:00

So Jon brought home something special today. It really was a gift from the Lord!!

My new dishwasher!

2008-12-05T13:00:00.000-08:00

So the dishwasher is out and this is my replacement!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KENT!!!!

2008-12-02T11:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Kent

2008-12-02T09:51:00.000-08:00

Today is Kent's 10th Birthday!! I don't know where the time has gone but here he is. Kent and Ethan both are my heros. They go to Italian school everyday and have made friends and have sooo adjusted to being here in Italy. I am SOOOOO proud of them.
Kent has been very sick and has had bronchitis. He actually wasn't able to go to school. So we stayed in tonight. He wanted breakfast for dinner. "brinner" and the Lemon cake and cupcakes for dessert. We were able to deliver. It has been a fun family birthday night even though everyone has been sick and we miss our family and friends. God is good. ALL THE TIME.

Thanksgiving Dinner

2008-11-29T15:22:00.000-08:00

We were able to spend Thanksgiving with some good friends. It was a special evening and we had such a good time. It was hard to be away from family and friends but this made the day for the children and we have some memories to look back on as we spent our first major Holiday away from home. I am so thankful for Brent and Hope!!! So many have prayed for a friend for me and God has given me one. I love her dearly and her family. I am so thankful we were able to spend this time with them.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T05:25:00.000-08:00

open door??

2008-11-25T13:41:00.000-08:00

I love all the old doors around here. Big... small... old...they all have so much character. This set of doors is in our neighborhood and is to some old apartments.

piccilo car

2008-11-21T06:49:00.000-08:00

walking home from school with Ethan

2008-11-18T07:52:00.000-08:00

Kent has been sick so he didn't make this shoot, but I am amazed at how many friends they have. I LOVE IT!

Remembering Aunt Rita

2008-11-18T06:41:00.000-08:00

This week marks an unfortunate anniversary. I love fall and I love Thanksgiving. But now this time of the year does not go by without the thoughts and memories of 5 years ago. As many of you remember my Aunt...my mom's sister was struck by a van and killed while walking her dog with her husband in their quiet Springfield Neighborhood as the driver drove away. I will NEVER forget that day! Everything about it. Time stopped. It was beautiful and warm, a nice day for a walk.

I reflect on this for several reasons. The first is it's just nice to remember her. I loved my aunt and I love my mom and my cousins. There aren't many days that go by that the loss isn't remembered. To me it's nice to know someone does remember and they are sorry for what happened. Too many times people don't know what to say so they don't say anything at all.

Reason #2...It's no secret that I am a worrier. I want a plan of action for everything. So moving to another country of course brought up so many fears. But I watched that night as Rita went to meet God that He had her days numbered. It didn't take Him by surprise and that no matter where we are we are to be obeying Him. In Springfield or another country. I can't forget that. Even when it's hard. I have to have a healthy fear of my Father.

Reason #3 Sins of others and myself can lead to destruction...not only to themselves but many others they/I come in contact with. The reality of this fact is so profound it is hard to even imagine. Her life touched many therefore losing her did too.
My memories of my aunt are many things, but going to her house around the fourth of July and cooking out, having homemade ice cream, and swimming ALL day stick out in my mind. She always made it so much fun. She made seven layer dip just for me! Okay not just for me but she knew I loved it. She also made the best snicker doodles ever! I still try to make them but I can't make them like her. Listening to her and my mom get tickled over something and laughing and laughing was infectious.
I think I will make some cookies tonight.

Thanks for letting me remember and thanks for all the love you gave our family when we lost her five years ago.

A day at "market"!!!

2008-11-17T13:31:00.000-08:00

Every Monday in our town is market. There is every kind of vendor you can think of. From handbags to fresh eggs with the feathers still stuck to them. A fresh roasted pig head still attached, fish, clothes, rugs, jewelry, coats, everything... At all kinds of prices. It is a lot of fun and I get to practice my Italian there.

updated website

2008-11-13T06:58:00.000-08:00

With all that has been going on around here one of our newest updates is our website. I encourage you to check it out and tell us what you think. Click our Picture to the Right.
We are gearing up for the holidays. Here, there is just Christmas because for obvious reasons they won't be celebrating Thanksgiving here. So the kids have school on that day. I will however be making the appropriate pies thanks to my mom for sending us the right ingredients. Please pray for us and the family we are away from. This is the first REAL holiday that it will be difficult to be away from each other. I am still trying to figure out how to catch a football game that day! (night our time)
Until next time...

MMM Fish

2008-11-12T13:55:00.000-08:00

Out and About

2008-11-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Our Castle

2008-11-10T03:24:00.000-08:00

Here is a pic of the castle in our town. They hold all kinds of events there. We haven't been to an event there yet but maybe around the holidays!!

The children

2008-11-09T07:26:00.000-08:00

thanks Jon!

2008-11-09T07:19:00.000-08:00

Muffins

2008-11-09T07:17:00.000-08:00

Oatmeal muffins. They were good but without brownsugar a little different. The kids loved em.

Um...BIG door

2008-11-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

Hard Rock

2008-11-05T06:25:00.000-08:00

Rome Embassy

2008-11-04T13:18:00.000-08:00

So we got to go into Rome today and exercise our right to vote. I must give a shout out to Admin, because after reading his post we were fired up. We had been afraid we might not be able to vote, because our ballots hadn't been sent to us by mail yet. Jon got on the horn and called the Embassy. It wasn't too late and we were on our way downtown. Let me add it was pouring rain when we left and Jon also has double pneumonia but that is how important it is to us that we get a chance to vote for a candidate. It was very exciting! We were searched and unable to take any electronic devices in with us so no pics on the inside...but we were able to cast our votes!! As you can tell there are security with guns and a line to get in. The Embassy just happens to be next to Hard Rock cafe, so we headed over for a piece of apple pie. We thought that was just about as American as it can get. Now we wait.

our little hannah montana

2008-10-31T13:02:00.000-07:00

Halloween Past

2008-10-30T13:16:00.000-07:00

I love looking at pictures and these are the only halloween ones that I could find for the occasion. Oh the children grow so fast!!

some stuff

2008-10-29T10:32:00.000-07:00

Story about Ethan...
Jon went to a school meeting to vote for classroom mothers. I stayed with the children. He understands more in those meetings than I do so he went. He said that Ethan's teacher was very complimentary on his behavior. She also mentioned that he has his table pray for lunch and leads them in prayer. When we asked Ethan about this he said "yes I do that, but when I am done the other kids touch their head, chest and each shoulder. Is that okay?" We laughed and said yes but you don't have to.

Another culture thing. Strikes around here are very common. Apparently tomorrow the school teachers are holding a strike and so the kids don't have school. Well we can take them but we won't be guaranteed their supervision. Interesting. So we will have free day tomorrow. YAY!!

Kent took a book that he got from church several years ago about a pumpkin and it gives a good presentation of the truth. Something that HSBC gave out for Halloween. The teacher asked him to bring it Friday and read it to the class in English. How cool is that!

Jon has taken the kids to several birthday parties and we are starting to feel a part of a connection of friends. We are really starting to get familiar with our community and enjoying it more and more.

Continue to pray as we head into the holidays.

Me and Nat

2008-10-27T02:00:00.000-07:00

Another Car

2008-10-25T03:09:00.000-07:00

Ethan wasn't with us but we still had to take a picture of this little car.

YouTube - Obama & Live Birth Abortion / Induced Labor Abortions / Infanticide Pro-Life Anti-Abortion Video

2008-10-21T09:15:00.000-07:00

YouTube - Obama & Live Birth Abortion / Induced Labor Abortions / Infanticide Pro-Life Anti-Abortion Video

A lot of LOVE from HOME.

2008-10-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

Thanks Mom and Dad!

More friends

2008-10-07T10:00:00.000-07:00

Kent and Nat have friends too!!!

New Friends

2008-10-07T09:58:00.000-07:00

Ethan's classmates. He is pretty popular.

PROMISE

2008-10-03T13:53:00.000-07:00

The thoughts that flood my mind are that of home. With the change of the season it seems hard to believe we have been on the field for 5 months. To many that may not seem like a long time but what God has accomplished during this time is amazing. We have known God can do more with our lives in a few years than we could in a lifetime on our own.
We are still awaiting paperwork which I am realizing not to get too stressed about. By the time we get the paperwork it will be time to apply again. This is just how it goes. I check our mailbox everyday for something. We don't get much mail...i'm sure the bills will come.
We are trying to keep up with the political race as well. It is interesting how many Italians do too, and ask us our opinion. I am looking forward to being able to vote overseas. That seems kind of cool to me. The kids are learning how our governments work different in other countries. Seeing how socialized government and a democracy differ are very real. Not something you glean from a book. It has been interesting to watch how the dollar and the euro change through out the course of this bailout.
So all that to say it does affect us here.
I have been so encouraged by the many comments and thoughts from friends and family. I know that we are being lifted up in prayer and there are moments in my afternoon that God gives me an overwhelming peace that I can't explain. There are things that I thought would be too hard to face and God has given me strength not only to face them but watch Him overcome and cause great victory. Too many times it is easier to forget the promise He gave because it is too hard to believe or accept that He wants the best for me. It is TRUTH. Not only the promise He gave me, but I was reminded that those promises apply to my children. Jeremiah 29:11. If you don't know it learn it. I love the NIV translation. WHAT A PROMISE!! I am so thankful for God's living Word and how it has changed my life this past year...and my kids. The journey has just begun... now if I can just learn to speak the language...it's coming everyday more and more. Keep lifting us up in prayer. Our lives are in your prayers. I hope you are enjoying fall. And all the wonderful smells that go with this time of year.

Holiday

2008-09-26T14:31:00.000-07:00

Today was an Italian Holiday! I guess you would call it a religious holiday. No school and a huge festival in our town at the castle. Did I mention there was a castle in our town? To end it all was an amazing fireworks display right outside our front door. It was spectacular and a lot of fun. They choreographed the fireworks to the music, everything from opera to symphony to pop, even "eye of the tiger" Sooooo many people. Too bad my camera ran out of room for more photos of the crowd. Next year!!

settling in

2008-09-25T05:59:00.000-07:00

It seems like we are settling in and things are beginning to become familiar. I am amazed at the prayers that God continues to answer. Granted some of them have been prayers of three to four years. And now we have an all new list of prayers.

The children are adjusting to everything so well. We are so proud of them. Everyone said they were at the age were this wouldn't be too painful. They were right. The boys love their school and are making friends and learning the language. They are learning so much. I guess instead of studying history out of a book they are to go on field trips to museums once a month in Rome. Can you imagine! I hope they need help from some moms...because I definitely will be volunteering. Kent has been invited to a Birthday party this weekend. We are excited to meet some parents of the kids in his class and begin a relationship with them. And so is he.

So far while we have been here the things to get used to is doing the laundry. It is not an after thought it is a daily chore that must be done. (or it will get ahead of you. I am thankful for the cooler weather but it has increased the drying time necessary for the clothes to get dry. Sometimes 2-3 days. It is just a part of life here and no one knows different. If they don't get all the way dry, we iron them. I don't know about you but there are some things that are just not meant to be ironed. Hanging out laundry is one of my favorite parts of the day though. Most of the women are hanging out laundry and all of them are talking with each other. So far hi and have a good day are about all they say to me, but they are so friendly. Soon it will be different. I will know the language...(i hope)

We have brought several things with us to make us feel at home. BUT....so far the ipod dock I brought doesn't convert here. I blew up my trimmers, and almost caught Ethan's ear on fire. I had to finish the haircut with a straight razor. (YIKES) The x box won't work (convert)...that probably being the most disappointing for the boys. I blew up the crock pot. (you can't buy those here) and last but not least we blew up our desktop computer. AAAAHHHHH!!! And so far the children have captured three lizards. One escaped, one died, and one we let go... (he was no fun).

We are taking it all in stride. Shopping is an interesting experience. Especially for meat. They cut it off the cow, chicken, pig, or...whatever at the store. The Chicken is a whole chicken with the neck all the way down to the feet and toenails. I haven't bought one yet. I don't even want to know if they have prepped the inside. Probably not.

Of course the overwhelming aspect of it all is the whole reason we are here. The people. There are so many. They are beautiful people with a love for life. I can't wait to see what God has for us here. It is something I know. The fight we have had to get here, to stay, and to go thru spiritual warfare isn't for nothing. Please remember to pray for our family. There are nights when we all wake up. We have all had a bad dream. Or just were overcome with fear. We are 7 hours ahead of most of you so if you remember to pray for us when you eat Italian for lunch or (Qdoba...that is our favorite place as some of you know), we are getting ready for bed and fighting an unseen battle. Will you help us fight it too? We can't do it alone.

On a funny note the boys were given the birds and bees talk. They just kept asking question after question. (Luckily Natti was in bed) I wish more than anything I could have taped Jon's explanation. It was priceless. He did an excellent job, but it was all I could do to keep from laughing out loud at all the boys questions.

I LOVE OUR FAMILY!! I LOVE OUR LIFE!! I LOVE MY GOD!!

BEC

little love bug

2008-09-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

Waiting to go inside

2008-09-11T05:24:00.000-07:00

The walk to school

2008-09-11T05:23:00.000-07:00

Before School

2008-09-11T04:55:00.000-07:00

The boys were up and ready to head out the door this morning for their first day at Italian Public School. I am so thankful for all of the prayers for our children. We have prayed for over three years for this day and this transition, their teachers, and new friendships and it is hard to believe we actually walked thru this day. They had a fantastic first day and we are sooo proud of them. It is hard enough to go to school the first day...then being in a new city... and no one speaks their language. They were eager and there were no tears (I didn't cry either). Deputation prepared us for new situations every week and they adjusted to that, so God has prepared them. God is SOOOOO good to us.

Colosseum

2008-09-07T14:11:00.000-07:00

Kent took this picture. He is such a great photographer!!

Bill and Maria Theresa

2008-09-07T14:02:00.000-07:00

This is Bill and Maria Theresa Standridge. They have served in the country of Italy since 1949. Jon met with them a year ago and began a relationship that God has used to provide paperwork that was vital for us to be in the country. We are very thankful for them and their ministry here in Rome. They have been a big encouragement to us and we have grown to love and respect them very much. Thank you for your prayers they played a role in this relationship as well.