A Passion for Poland

Times.......They are a changin.......

2010-05-11T11:28:00.000-07:00

Since I have not updated in 6 months I thought it would be a good time to update the blog with the latest info -- trying to keep up on 2 blogs, an MBA program, work, 4 kids and their activities, and training for an IronMan race leaves little time for anything....let alone rest....so here it goes in a whirlwind fashion:

Kids/Family

Alexxis now out of Dance taking Cheer leading (Made Level 2 of the USA Gymnastics Cheer leading Squad) and she is way excited.....me too....more $$$$$$$$$ - I need to buy stock in the facility...you'll see why below. She is also heading to EVBC camp with her friend Sydney this year in Point Loma and looking forward to having a great time.

Natalie now in Level 3 Gymnastics (just graduated up from level 2 about 2 weeks ago). She is becoming stronger and is looking forward to her extra time (and my extra $$ there...She turns 10 next month and Cheryl will take her to a hotel for the night, do the girl makeover thing and then I will take her to Wet & Wild for the day.....she is overjoyed to say the least...

Payton just graduated yesterday into level 2 gymnastics and she is thrilled....she is also getting stronger and helped the gym install a PIC line into my bloodstream for the 3rd monthly payment to them for all the activities that she and her sisters are involved in -- this way they can just take the blood out automatically vs. me having to go in periodically....LOL

Preston is almost 2 and he has hit that wonderful "NO" stage and the stage of curiosity killed the cat....or in his case destroyed the store, room, or whatever he gets his little hands on....he is very active and loves playing ball, riding his brmm brmmm (Prestonease for Motorcycle), or using the bat to slam things in the house...his cohort in crime Kade (over on M, Wed, & Fri) also enjoy throwing rocks into the pool so dad can step on them or find them later and have to don the Scuba gear to retrieve them all....oh Joy....

Cheryl -- what can I say -- my best friend and wife of almost 16 years....her back is doing better ever since her chiropractic appointments and she is enjoying running on a more regular basis (mostly with her friends Kelly, Kristen, Kym, & Janelle -- so I think maybe Cheryl and Janelle should choose pseudo names that start with K to fit into the group better but that's just my suggestion.) She also spends her time cleaning, cooking, managing the two boys and running errands for the kids, for me, for herself...again no rest for the wicked....

Me -- well if you FB at all or subscribe to my other blog you know I am a stacker and have too many things going on these days --- I will be taking a short but needed hiatus from the MBA program for about 5 months to save the $6,500 that the company will cover if I wait to go back until Jan 1, 2011....but that will give us another night in our week and me an easier time training for IronMan in November this year. I did do a Triathlon recently in Mexico and I turned in a great time for an Olympic distance (2:37:13) --- for the 1000 meter swim, 25 mile bike and then 6.2 mile run.

Poland-

Ever changing -- Had a new Boss out of Belgium for the last 3 months, now he has quit and they are planning on filling his position for a Division lead in Europe for my group --- I am letting all my network contacts know of our continued desire to be there full time in Poland....not sure where it will go but we are sure God is in control and we are to continuing to be patient. Have calls into Dick Dietrich (Polish Royalty you have heard about from us) for updates from him and the partnership for Poland together as well as lines out to some folks in different states to get presentations set up for support but no traction yet.

Love you all as our friends and family ---- Call us, email us, let us know how we can serve you.....

So That We Might Save Some,

Gabe, Cheryl, Alexxis, Natalie, Payton, & Preston

Fresh Perspectives

2009-11-13T20:33:00.004-07:00

Almost every day since March 8th, 2008 (when we really knew God wanted us in Poland) I have awakened saying in my head "What can I do today to get us closer to Poland?" - I believe Cheryl has done the same.

Over the past 12 months since our official appointment with WorldVenture as long term missionary appointees to Poland we have made cold calls to friends, family, acquaintances, and just about every church in the east and west valleys that we could think of to help us raise support for the ministry God wants us to participate in overseas. We have had some wonderful meetings, enjoyed fellowship with our home congregation, and have fostered new relationships. This has all been the good part of the process. The frustrating part of the process (since bad is not the proper term) has been realizing that the traditional method of support raising will not be how we get to Poland. I think and believe it is safe to say the old model of churches and individuals solely supporting those willing to change cultures and serve in the field has gone the way of the dodo.......it is becoming extinct.

We knew it would be different for us when we started this journey -- just how different was and still is boggling our minds...It has taken me personally the last 12 months to realize that I have been asking and acting in the wrong manner towards this future destination of Poland and the ministry that awaits there. I have been trying to control the outcome and time frame in which it happens....not realizing I have been viewing and making decisions in an OWNER role and not a Steward role. HUGE difference......lets take the definitions of both for just a second....

According to Merriam Webster:
Owner = to have or hold as property; to have power or mastery over.
Steward = one who actively directs affairs

If God is in control of my life (evidenced by my sole reliance on him for my salvation and the evidence of fruit of it in my life) then God is responsible for the owner issues of this call to ministry (namely time frame, support, and structure)...It is my responsibility as the manager of my life to be listening to the Owners direction and acting on it in the way he intersects it with others to make it happen. There is a freeing feeling when you remove that tendency to play Owner of it all and even more security in the feeling that those decision are cared for....just have to wait for the next set of directions. I appreciate my new friendship with Mark Miller (www.godintersections.com) who has helped me realize this point and is already mentoring me for the next step in this journey to Poland.

God has always shown up in surprising us so that we can never claim the glory for what is going on or what is happening but rather to remind us that HE gets the glory as it is about HIM and not us. I fully expect as we move along this journey that Gods direction will be evident....I like to over think things (another tell tale sign of attempting to control it) so for now I will just sit back, be patient, and enjoy the journey and intersections that he provides. Poland is not my immediate concern as the Owner will let us know when it is time and until then we follow the directions we have right now.

Take some time this week and ask yourself what perspective your viewing God plan for your life from.....who knows maybe you'll also be able to shed some of the excess baggage your carrying around. More posts to come on a much more regular basis....

Send us your comments, open some dialogue with us, lets have coffee (OK, not for me but I''ll have a Green tea) or break some bread together....I treasure all my current relationships and intersections and look forward to the new ones coming....

In Service with you for the Kingdom,

Gabe

The trip overview of Poland

2009-07-09T08:02:00.050-07:00

So now that we have gotten back to our some what normal routine, I (Cheryl) will give you a quick view of our trip! I will try to be brief and not go into too much detail so as to not bore you!

Day 1 -

Approximately 21 hours after we headed for the airport we arrived at our hotel in Plock (pronounced Pwutsk). Since it was Natalie's 9th birthday we got checked into our hotel and headed down stairs to the restaurant for some dinner. The girls quickly learned we weren't in America any more as there we no hamburgers, Mac N' Cheese, or chicken fingers on the menu. They managed the get some food in there bellies but were so tired we decided to get them upstairs to shower. Gabe ran across the street to the local market to get a candy bar (the closest to a birthday cake we could find). We sang Happy Birthday and of to bed!

Day 2-

The kids were up at 3 am not able to sleep. So some games and snacks for about and hour and half and back to bed. They slept until about 7 am and we packed back up to head off to the northern part of Poland. Unfortunately, the GPS that we got from the rental company was broken which left us with a huge problem. We don't speak Polish so asking for directions was out. We were thankfully given a bunch of maps by Gabe's grandfather before we left. Once we figured out where we were, off we went (praying the whole way!) So it was needless to say a tense ride not knowing how to drive in Poland, not knowing the way, and not speaking the language if we got lost! We are glad God was with us guiding the whole way! The trip was supposed to be 4 hours, but 7 hours later we got into the Hel Peninsula. We were relieved that we were now with our relatives and someone who spoke English. We got settled in to the little cottage type of place and had dinner with them. The girls were relieved to see that they had pizza on the menu (although their cheese pizza has banana peppers on it). We put the kids to bed after a bit and spent some time chatting with the relatives.

Day 3-

Today we went into the actual town of Hel. The girls can't wait to title there school papers "I went to Hel this summer"! It was a quaint little town with a lot of little kiosks on the sidewalks and restaurants to visit. We went to the harbor and took a boat ride on the Baltic Sea. After returning from the ride went enjoyed lunch and took a tour of a museum. We headed back to house and took the kids out on the beach for a little bit. We wrapped up the evening with dinner and some chit chat.

Day 4-

We spent today on the beach. The weather was beautiful (high of 65) but a bit chilly for sunbathing and swimming. The water was obviously cold! We quickly learned that you can't say no easily. Waldek was very insistent that we all (including the kids try to windsurf). Gabe was first. He picked it up with a little practice. The girls decided to just try to balance on the board. They did well! I was able to get out of diving in to the cold water due to the bending over to get the sail constantly would not be good for my back. It was a great day! We finished of the day with some fish from a local restaurant.

Day 5-

Today we were on our own. Waldek and Ewa needed to get there placed cleaned up before leaving the next day. They suggested we go into Gdansk, Gydnia, and Sopot. We were a little nervous leaving our relatives side but ventured out. It was about a 2 hour drive (adding the amount of time that we got lost). We arrive in the Stare Miasto (old town) of Gdansk. After trying to figure out where to park we were in awe of the beauty! It reminded me much of Belgium (when we were stranded on our way to Africa). Beautiful cobblestone streets. Old majestic buildings and churches. The girls quickly started buying souvenirs for there teachers and friends! We spent most of the afternoon just walking around enjoying the weather and sites. We had lunch and headed to Sopot. The girls were already getting tired so we spent a little time walking around the old city there and going to the pier. The girls decided they were too tired to go to Gdynia so we grabbed some Mc Donalds (yes Mc Donalds) and headed home.

Day 6-

We headed back to Warsaw today. On the way we stopped by an incredible mid-evil castle called Malbork. It was the most awesome looking castle. It was just huge! We took a quick tour and back on the road. After we stopped for a late lunch and lots of traffic we arrived in Warsaw at about 7:30 pm. We got the kids unpacked and since it was late and we had access to few places quickly we ended up with another Mc Donalds meal for dinner. Off to bed again.

Day 7 -

Today we were on our own. Gabe went down to the local market and got a polish tradition for breakfast, Meat and cheese and rolls. He also found fresh raspberries, and strawberries being sold on the side of the road. We decided to go into the Stare Miasto (old city) via the tram (like our light rail - just not as nice). The girls loved the city. It was more cobblestone streets, beautiful churches and building. They also loved the Polish tradition of ice cream everyday! There favorite was Swiderky. A really tall soft serve swirl ice cream in a cone. We went back after a full day and had some much needed down time. The girls I could tell were getting a bit burnt out on Polish food and the rigorous schedule as well and the lack of being able to communicate with others. In the evening a down pour of rain came and nearly flooded the streets. This also hampered the effort of drying the clothes I had to hand wash due to the washing machine that was provided not working (or us not working it right since we couldn't read the instructions). We found a TGI Friday's and were excited to get a little taste of home! It was a well received meal!

Day 8-

Another day on our own! We are now getting the hang if the maps and figuring out Warsaw a bit easier! We have and appointment with the American School of Warsaw and plan to head to a palace nearby. We left for the school 45 minute early and after 2 hours of looking for it gave up. We were so frustrated and disappointed. This was such an important part of this trip. It was really going to make it easier for the girls transition. We attempted to call the school several times to no avail. Disappointed, we stumbled on a mall and decided to head in for a bit. We walked around and had some lunch. We were also able to find a grocery store to get some needed items. We decided to head for the palace in Wilanow. It is the big yellow castle you see on our paper newsletters. We went inside and the girls were able to see a lot of famous art pieces and some bedrooms of real kings, queens, and duchess'. It was a great day despite the set backs.

Day 9 -

We head to Krakow today with Waldek and Ewa. We first drove to Auschwitz. They dropped us off and did some of there own site seeing since they had been there many times. The girls got an amazing history lesson and seemed to really get the enormity of the devastation to all of the affected people groups - especially the jewish community. They were able to see the actual cells of the prisoners, the wall and gallows used to execute prisoners, the crematory where they would destroy the remains. It was a great opportunity to talk with them and educated them. The hardest question to answer was from Alexxis. "Why would God let all of those children die like that when they didn't do anything wrong?" God's ways are not ours and we can never understand someone so much more powerful than we are. We just have to trust Him that He knew what was best and what will ultimately work out to His glory.

After the afternoon in Auschwitz we met back up in Krakow (2 hours away) at the hotel. We explored the most beautiful city yet. We had dinner in the square amidst flame throwers, dancers, and horse drawn carriages. This was a very special way to spend our 15th wedding anniversary. It was just an amazing place. We went back to the room and enjoyed some rest.

Day 10-

We woke up this morning and had breakfast and walked to WaWel castle. It was again a beautiful masterpiece. We toured the Cathedral. the girls loved going up the the bell tours and seeing the huge iron bells. We unfortunately ran out of town to tour the castle, so it gives us an excuse to visit again sometime! We all piled in the car again. It was the most beautiful scenic drive of rolling green hills and trees and flowers. We stopped off at Waldek's parents house in Radom and had juice, fruit and home made cakes. After 2 hours of visiting we went to Waldek and Ewa's Forest house in Wilga. It was a cute little cottage. We had a light dinner and dessert with Ewa's parents. We then travelled the rest of the way back to Warsaw. It was a long day but fun for sure. The traveling was definitely getting tough on the kids (especially Preston).

Day 11-

It was Friday and we were bound and determined to find the school. After talking with the relatives and getting on the Internet we managed to find some better directions. Our mission was to find the school and pray that we would be allowed a tour even though we missed our previous appointment. We found it and after speaking with the security guard we were cleared for a tour!!!! Yippee! The girls were ecstatic! The school was amazing. The classes include a lot of things like, art, rock band, choir, traditional band, swim tennis and volleyball teams, language classes, and drama for every age. The most appealing to the girls was that they got a locker and a laptop to use for the year to be as paper less as possible. I was so glad to see them be so excited, what a blessing. We went back to the apartment and packed for the Mazurian Lakes. This is on the northeast side of Poland. It was another long day of driving. About 4 hours of driving. We arrived to our rental in the late afternoon. We had a beautiful view of the lake and many sail boats. The weather was beautiful and much cooler than Warsaw. We got unpacked and sat down to a nice dinner by the lake.

Day 12-

Today Waldek had a special treat planned for us. He chartered a sail boat for us. We were able to take a trip across the lake to a animal reserve. We took a hike and watched snails, swans, frogs, and mosquito's (not my favorite one). We enjoyed lunch and jumped back on the boat. The girls enjoyed sitting on the front of the boat and even got a chance to try there hand at steering the boat. We went home and cleaned up for dinner. Unfortunately not feeling well we crashed early.

Day 13-

Last long drive of the trip! We drove back to Warsaw today. We got in early evening and started the preparation of our bags to return home. We did find time to sneak back to TGI Fridays!

Day 14-

Our last full day in Warsaw. We finished up our souvenir shopping at the Stare Miasto in the morning. We then make a trek to a neighboring city to get a Harley Davidson shirt for a neighbor. Back to the Stare Miasto for dinner and one last look at the city.

Day 15-

Our trip I can say a was a complete success. God showed Himself in so many ways though out the trip. I know His hand is in our calling, in our getting there, in the guidance around the country, in getting our children excited about the move, and just the little things. I am so grateful and so in love with my God! Thank you for everyone who prayed for us. It was a trip with obstacles but nothing is too big for our God! I can honestly say the kids are excited about the move and all fears have been removed.

Saturday Afternoon

2009-06-27T10:54:00.002-07:00

Partners,

Chesch!!!! We are doing well and have had some nice days here in Hel (Bet you never thought you'd herre me say that). Yesterday was warm and breezy and the kids and Cheryl spent the entire day on the beach with Ewa and Alex while Waldek proceeded to teach me his favorite sport of Windsurfing on the bay up here in Hel. It is a very tough sport. We have had wonderful meals and wonderful conversation with them and tomorrow we head back to Warsaw. we visited Gdansk today as they were off preparing their camper to go into storage so it was a nice family day in Gdansk and Sopot...Pictures to follow later and more updates...Love to you all - Please pray for my Dziadek (Grandfather) as he is still hospitalized with some ever complicating problems..My mom is taking good care of him so please pray for her strength as well...

Gabe, Cheryl & The Kids....

Update From Poland

2009-06-26T01:53:00.002-07:00

Ok -- So internet access here in Hel is spotty however we are on and we are having fun in the area and with Waldek, Ewa & Alex. Our drive from Plock was interesting as our rented GPS unit in our less than together van broke the morning we were supposed to depart. We spent an hour trying to reset it and get it working again but because the screen was cracked from the beginning I believe it just could not function anymore -- so enter the wonderful maps provided by Mom and Dziadek....They saved us as we navigated the roads via maps and help from the lord -- 6 hours later we arrived in Hel @ the camp ground where Waldek and Ewa were staying. We checked in and sat down for some dinner with them.

Wednesday we woke up to rain and clouds again and Waldek and Ewa decided it best to head into the actual town of hel about 30km away and see the city, a maritime museum and take a ferry ride through the bay. It was quite chilly but the kids really enjoyed it. We have taken some beautiful pictures as it is absolutely lush, green, and beautiful here.

Now it is Thursday around 11am we are here at teh cafe next to the beach, kids are playing on a sandy playground and the weather has turned sunny and warmer (but not Warm)...I would say it is a cool 62 right now and breezy. We have had a few nights of nice conversation with Waldek and Ewa and have enjoyed their enjoyment of planning the next days since they are the resident experts here. Today Waldek wishes me to try windsurfing however it is really really cool and I am not sure we will make it. Tomorrow to Gdansk for some sightseeing while Waldek prepares his camper for storage for the summer as they will not be back for a few months. Sunday it is back to Warsaw for some meetings with schools and on the way a middle ages Teutonic Knights Castle called Malbork....More to come as the days progress and as we have internet access.

Love to you all and thanks for the prayers...

Gabe, Cheryl, Alexxis, Natalie, Payton & Preston...

We've Landed Safe & Sound

2009-06-23T19:17:00.002-07:00

Partners,

We have landed in Poland. Praise our Lord that we are here despite many obstacles along the first 24 hours of our Journey. Our flight into Chicago and transfer was late and we almost missed our flight -- it took 15 minutes to get our stroller out of gate check, then the train that runs between terminals at O'Hare was really slow and it took us 40 min to get to the new terminal just to get stuck in a long security line with 20 minutes until departure. We arrived at the gate 2 minutes after they should have taken off but they were still there and had not left (hmmm..wonder why -- thank Jesus). On the plane we were supposed to be separated by 8 rows and Cheryl was going to be by herself, but again jesus intervened and they had room to put us all together where Cheryl was seated so I was able to help with Preston during the flight. During the 9 hour flight Preston actually slept a great deal of the time despite the bassinet having a 25lb limit and he is 27lbs......We landed on time, got through customs easily and then waited for about 1 hour for our rental company to show up...Once they did we got our van but the cigarette lighter would not work (Not for cigarette use for us, but to power the GPS we so desperately need to get around this country). So for about 1 hour they tried to fix it finally changing some fuses and getting it all set. Off we went driving into Warsaw to Plock (our first destination). After about a 2 hour drive (everything road wise here is under construction and speed limits are low -- Like 40-60Km per hour the whole way -- that is roughly 25-36 mph the whole time. We got here and despite sleeping and very emotional kids we had some polish dinner and off to showers and bed we went.

Today we head to Hel Peninsula to meet up with Waldek, Ewa and Alex...Looking forward to bonding and having a great time with them for the next few days. Please continue to pray for our safety and that our funds hold out - the airport exchange was horrible and much less than we expected.....God will provide.....Thanks for your prayer - more updates as we have internet access.... Signing off from Plock @ 4:30am Poland time (Yep we are all up already and maybe try to rest for an hour before we take off)....

God Bless,

The Phillips Family

T MINUS 17 Days.......

2009-06-05T07:41:00.006-07:00

POLAND SUMMER 2009

Partners,

In Matthew 4:19 Jesus says "Come follow me."
In our preparation to follow him to Poland where he has called us, we will depart in 18 days (June 22nd) and stay for 14 days (July 7th) to accomplish some very important pre-field goals:.

1) To grow and deepen existing relationships with Polish Nationals in the Business Community.

2) To enculturate the children to Poland (its Culture, People, Food, Language, and History)

3) To visit and pray over schooling options, and housing options.

4) To visit and pray over language schools needed for our first two years of Polish saturation.
Please pray with us that each of these goals would be realized through the power of the Holy Spirit and to HIS glorification

Goal #1 Details - [Growing our relationships]

We arrive on June 23rd @ 14:15 Warsaw time and will be picking up our rental van for the duration of our trip. From there we will be driving 2 hours north to Plock (Where my family is from) to stay the night before meeting up with Waldek & Ewa on June 24th in the town of Hel (another 4 hour drive north), at the tip of the Baltic Sea. We will be spending four days in Hel and the surrounding Gdansk area. This will be a fantastic bonding time for us with them as they will be on holiday and will be far from the fast paced working environment they are used to. Please pray with us for safety, rest, open conversations, and softened hearts.

Goal #2 - [Enculturation]

This trip was designed to provide a taste of each of the 3 major Cultural areas of Poland (from Gdansk and Hel in the north, to the heartland in Warsaw, and to the southern cultural capital of Krakow). Each provides a history, flavor, and architectural view into what makes Poland a thriving nation and a historical wonder. Each area has historical locations we will be visiting (time allowing) to allow Alexxis, Natalie, Payton, and Preston to experience what their new "home" will be like, and that it is not that different or scary. Please pray with us:

1) For Cheryl's back to be completely comfortable and for no issues of stiffness or pain (as long drives and sitting upright in auto chairs can aggravate her condition)

2) That they will absolutely fall in Love with the people, landscape, and history.

3) Our safety to and from these areas driving as Gabe navigates the road system and Polish auto laws.

Goal #3 - [School & Housing]

During June 28th - 30th, and again from July 2nd - 4th we will be in Warsaw visiting the schools that we have been communicating with as options for our children, and viewing housing options in and around the school/ business areas.

We pray for the Holy Spirit to guide us in our decisions for the kids future education as well as the future home or flat we are to reside in. That both will be affordable in our support package estimate and that the areas will provide us the opportunity to engage the business community for Christ.

Goal #4 - [Language Acquisition]

Our final goal is to visit some schooling options for our language acquisition. Polish is a very difficult language to learn and we know that the Lord has orchestrated a place for us to study appropriately and effectively to learn fluent Polish. Please pray we find an affordable and flexible solution.

Goal #5 - [Provision]

Praise the lord that HE has raised $1,350 towards the expenses of this vision trip. We ask your prayer and consideration for the other $7,650 to cover all of the necessary expenses to make this vision trip happen. We place our faith in the GREAT PROVIDER and in you, our partners in the Ministry.
Please pray that these funds can be raised prior to the June 22nd date and that new Monthly supporters will also come on board for our eventual full time transition.

Gratefully at 16% Monthly supported

As always we covet your prayers and know that HIS provision is always at the right time and in the right fashion to carry out HIS will.

I will send out two last updates prior to our departure and during our trip we will blog our progress -- so join the feed and stay tuned......

Together in Service for THE Kingdom,

The Phillips Family
Gabe, Cheryl, Alexxis, Natalie, Payton & Preston
WorldVenture Missionaries to Poland

Planes, Trains & Automobiles......

2009-05-04T16:38:00.006-07:00

Well, it is official. After much prayer, contemplation, ever changing airfares, ever changing rental vehicles, accommodations, appointments, itineraries, and throw some fun in too.....and we are OFF to Poland this summer. We leave June 22nd, and return July 7th.

Our 1st day in Poland will be Natalie's Birthday and should be quite the adventure after being in the air for over 15 hours and then a 1 1/2 hour drive north of Warsaw to Plock for our hotel the first evening there. I am sure that all of them will be quite exhausted, and ready for a snooze by then.

From there it is a series of driving multiple hours (4+) to Hel Peninsula where we meet up with Waldek, Ewa, and Alex for a few days at the seaside. We pray that our relationship will deepen with each day and that we form a very strong and trusting bond with them. We hope to enjoy the north part of Poland and maybe make a few business contacts at teh same time as Waldek will no doubt have acquaintances and friends who also holiday up in this area.

On the 5th day we are planning to drive back to Warsaw with Waldek and Ewa where we will settle into an apartment he has arranged for us from a cousin who owns some extra flats nearby where they live. Once settled we will be touring the "American School fo Warsaw" where we intend to send the girls for school. All three of our previous teachers at Edu-Prize recommended this school and its curriculum over all of the other more expensive alternatives (although this won't be cheap either). We have set up a day to meet with the director to allow us the opportunity to tour the facility, learn about the makeup of the school, and the area surrounding it. Next will be checking out homes/ flats in and around the area. It turns out (like we did not already know HE came before us here) that the school is only about 7 minutes from the area where Waldek and Ewa live, which is South West of the city center. It is amazing to see how all of this is already unfolding a bit.

Once we have researched homes and the school, we will be visiting some Language schools as well to get some great information and program info for our first 2 years of language. Polish is a difficult language to learn but with the 40 hour or more a week focus on it for the first 2 years we should be able to do very well. Our Rosetta stone study is helping and we are ramping up the lessons to get in tune for our trip so we can start to have minor conversation and be able to get around a bit...

After Warsaw, it will another 3-4 hour drive down to Krakow (The Cultural Capital of Poland)...where the history, architecture, and culture will be filling out every sense with appreciation for this proud, and industrious nation. Our guides will once again be Waldek and Ewa (If you have never experienced Polish hospitality -- it is a site to behold)...who will take us and show us around before we head back the following day to Warsaw again. On the way back however, we are contemplating a stop in Oswieciem (The Polish City) where Auschwitz-Birkenau is located. Since we visited the Holocaust museum in D.C. earlier this year, it is a great opportunity to get the girls to understand this happened right in our new backyard....and how the people still are recovering from this unbelievable tragedy.

Once back in Warsaw, more contact will be made with Business professionals and Marek (whom we met in February last year)...we expect not to many meetings will take place, however we are wanting to make sure we have a strong foundation to build off of...even now prior to getting there.

Back in the car for probably 3-4 more hours to Mazury Lakes district in North east Poland -- not to awfully far from the Russian border. Waldek says this among a few other places in Poland is not to be missed...beautiful lakes back dropped with mountains and vistas. He enjoys sailing there and we might be able to join him. This area oddly enough also housed a massive assortment of German bunkers which served as Hitlers command center from 1941-1944. In fact Hitler himself stayed in this area extensively while commanding the offensives against the Russian front. This is also the scene of the Valkyrie uprising that has been made a bit more famous in the last few months by Tom Cruise and Hollywood. Wolf's Lair (as it is called) will provide yet another piece of the cultural puzzle that is Poland.

Lastly our journey will unfortunately end back in Warsaw where we will have to say Dovidzenia (or see you later) until we return for good. It will be an exciting time for the kids and for us to see how God will give them a love for the people and culture.

We really need prayer, financial support, and your contacts to make this trip successful and our getting to the field successful. Would you please consider praying for the needs listed below and if led financially to assist with this heavy financial load please contact us to find out how you can help. We Love all of you and look forward to ministering in HIS name.

Warm Regards,

The Phillips Family.

Prayer & Financial Needs:

For timely and safe connections to Warsaw on US Air & Lot Polish Airways.
For safety and Gabe's ability to drive alert and aware in Poland where the traffic laws are very different.
For our relationship to deepen with Waldek & Ewa and open hearts
For the kids sleep (Especially Preston) while we are there and the time change issues
For our business network to increase in Warsaw & Krakow
For the kids love of Poland and the school they will visit
For affordable, close housing to the school.
Finally, for approx. $8,500 for this trip

Blessings to you....

Thankfulness for the Cross........

2009-04-10T12:17:00.004-07:00

It is particularly relevant to those who call themselves believers to concentrate on the meaning of today, tomorrow, and Sunday. These three days cover every emotion that I can fathom...(fear, betrayal, anger, sadness, hopelessness) and finally all culminating in the resurrection event and Extreme Joy.

To think that our Lord would remove himself from the Glory of Heaven (can you even begin to imagine the pure sacrifice that was in itself), to take on human flesh knowing the anguish and pain ahead, serve, love, and then become sin (yes, became sin for us) and sacrifice himself on our behalf so that we could have fellowship with the father......It is mind blowing.

I look at my kids, my wife, my family and I ask myself "Would I do the same for them?" - but that question doesn't even begin to scratch the surface of the sheer magnitude of the single act Christ alone could accomplish....I would say to myself and others "sure I would, I would die for them" -- but would I die for my neighbor, for my friends of old and new? Would I willing give up my life for those less fortunate? Would I willingly give up my life for those more fortunate than me? What about that man in prison convicted of some horrible crime? What about a terrorist who I know given the chance would kill again?

As much as I can give examples of how we might try to justify our being, our worthiness, our righteousness, how we might feel that we are more worthy than others...Net Net - SIN is SIN...Can you even picture it -- Jesus, who knew all of us and all of our lives from the beginning to the end could see all of the sin (past, present, and future) knowing and feeling the heartbreak that each one of us caused.... in the moment before arrest and the subsequent events of flogging, crucifixion, and death -- utters these words - John 18:11 "Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the father has given me?" -- No one could accomplish that other than Christ.

Lord my God, Thank you for dying on the cross in my place this day so many years ago. Father Thank you for your unfailing love for us, even though we are sinners, you died for us. Jesus, you ARE the way, the truth, and the life and I am so happy to be called you child. Lord you died so that I might live, and live I will for you. I will shout it from the mountains, My Lord is Risen, He is Risen Indeed...I love you Jesus.

May your Good Friday be filled with the emotions I have describedand may your Sunday be filled with HIS love and Joy as we celebrate the resurrection of Christ, always remembering we serve a Risen Lord and that he will be returning...let us not give up meeting as some are in the habit of doing, but even more so as the day approaches.....

Gabe

RUN FOREST RUN !!!!!!!

2009-02-07T11:24:00.012-07:00

OK, so it has been way to long yet again since I blogged anything....so busy, lots of travel and just life. Is that an excuse you ask --- YEP, and I'll take as many as I can....Life is too short not to enjoy the day and not worry about the blog.

The Title of this entry is due to the fact that Running is starting to dominate our active lives....and I am THRILLED for that!!! I picked up loving to run (OK, loving is a strong word - but it fits right now) back about 7 years ago, and have over the past 2 years started really caring about time, distance, etc...AND now Cheryl and Alexxis have caught the bug too. Alexxis and I started running back in the fall of 2008 but with as early as I get up to run I could not be that consistent..so now that Cheryl ahas caught the passion to run, she and Alexxis and running almost every day and enjoying the time together.

As you can see from some of the photos I am attaching we are all enjoying it immensely. Today, February 7Th, Cheryl and Alexxis did their first official race (The Year of the OX 5K) at Papago park. They were excited and I think a little nervous but they did a great job and ran the 3.1 miles in 41:20 (GREAT JOB GALS -- LOVE YOU)....Natalie also came out (and got to compete in the kid run - Ribbon picture below) with Preston and I to cheer Cheryl & Alexxis on and congratulate them when it was all over. Payton had a Daisy event so could not join, but she did make a sign that said "Go Mom, Go Alexxis". I am SO VERY PROUD of my family and their new found love for the sport that I also enjoy....who knows maybe Natalie and Payton when they get a bit older will join us and it can become a family affair..

Back on the 18Th of January I ran my 1st Half Marathon (The P.F. Chang's Rock N Roll Marathon & Half Marathon) -- It was an experience in itself with the shuttle to the start, having to be in Corrals and wait to start after the official start, and just running the course. Over 40,0o0 competed and I ended up running the 13.1 miles in just 1:15 over my goal..It took me 1:56:15 to finish and I had a great time. I told the fam to stay at home (way too crazy for Cheryl with 4 kids) as it was crazy and a mass of humanity at the finish line, but my mom braved the light rail and the masses to be there when I finished - it mean't a lot that she came (Thanks Mom). Its a great event and I will most likely do it again next year...who knows maybe the full marathon....

So, even with all of that we are still training --- doing our next race in April in Lake Havasu where our niece Ashley will join Cheryl & Alexxis for another 5K @ The Havasu Half. I will be running the Half Marathon again and am looking forward to seeing how I do with the temperature being a lot warmer than in Jan....Maybe still get under the 2 hour mark, but we will see.

All else in life is just that (life) -- we are all healthy, minding our Partner Development to get to Poland with those who have been interested in hearing what God has called us too, and we are very grateful that God has given us a great home church, friends, and a loving family to help us through this Journey. More to come as things develop and as life continues. We Love you all.

Blessings to you all,

Gabe, Cheryl, Alexxis, Natalie, Payton, & Preston.

R U Ready for Christmas??

2008-12-20T17:22:00.012-07:00

Well -- The Countdown is on.....T-Minus 5 days until Christmas. Everyone is still in full preparation mode here at the house -- as you can see by the pictures attached. Pongo and Cheryl are enjoying the Holiday spirit while Cheryl puts together a Christmas gift for Alexxis and her BFF....(ok, for your textually challenged folks thats TXT for Best Friends Forever). While Cheryl works, and works, and works, the kids lounge, and lounge, and lounge watching the Christmas shoes made for tv movie....

Yesterday, Payton's classroom @ school was visited by the man himself -- Yes Mr. Clause....The kids all loved it while they drank hot cocoa, made crafts, received bells from Santa, and took pictures with him as well. It was a great time and hopefully something they will always remember.

We neglected to take our camera today, but we took the girls and Preston for a horse drawn carriage ride next to a local movie theater at about noon, and since then were outside selling Cool-Aid at a driveway stand next to the street...they got about 4-5 takers (1 being me while I did some much needed gun cleaning). Cheryl is currently preparing our dinner tonight (a fun dinner).....Homemade Soft and buttery Pretzels.....YUM -- can't wait to dig in.

The Tree is up, the lights are on and we are set....heading to Lake Havasu this year and spending Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with Cheryl's sisters (Julie & DeeDee & of course Ashley as well)....should be a rip rousing time.

Wishing you and yours the Merriest Christmas & Happiest New Year...

TPS (The Phillips Six)

Enjoying the Process

2008-12-13T15:56:00.012-07:00

Well its been a month since I last posted and I know -- I said I would not get distracted, but with all of the appointments, training time in Colorado, and misc activities this is the first time I have had to really focus on the Blog.

We spent four more days in Colorado a week and a half ago for Partner Development Training back at WorldVenture Headquarters. We were blessed to be accompanied by our PD Coach Glen Reiley....whom by the grace of God came alongside of us to assist and say he would help in our process to Poland. As I said we spent four days in CO where the weather varied significantly from 5 degrees to 55 during the day.

Glen and I decided we would run most of these days and dd not imagine running in snow the first morning we got up...it was 5 degrees and we headed out for a 6 mile run....what a wonderful creation snow is and how beautiful it is as it floats down with a slight wind in the dark and dawn of the morning. We huffed and puffed (ok, more me than Glen -- he's trained in High altitude before) and finished only to get inside and see ourselves in a mirror covered with the white stuff and our eyebrows were stark white....wish we had the camera and a picture of this but you'll just have to use your imagination. During our training we learned presentation techniques, pointers, and just good construction of a message to get out to all who want to hear what God is doing in our lives and our journey to Poland to make, mature, and multiply disciples for Jesus Christ.

It was wonderful to see all of our appointee class again as well, spending evenings, mornings, and lunches together with our coaches getting to know more and more about one another. One evening was spent at the Foote rest (A soon to be appointee family) whose hospitality rivals that of the Polish people....They are just awesome. Jordan, Marie, Micah & Megan made us all (15 of us) feel right at home with some warm holiday cheer and treats.

Knowing we would be apart for a long period of time and maybe for years now we set back to reality after the training back to Phoenix, leaving all of our appointee families to also go their ways home. We pray we can all attend MTI, and Advanced Camp with them as well, but only God knows when and where we will all be in the next 9 months as it pertains to fundraising.

On the Home front -- Preston has finally started sleeping mostly through the night....PRAISE GOD -- we are finally sleeping again and enjoying the somewhat normal life creep back in. I have uploaded a video of him here bouncing in his Jolly Jumper (Thanks Ken & Kelly) attached to my office doors.....He loves it and his new walker and is getting more mobile by the day. He is 6 1/2 months old now and growing like a weed on steroids.....29 inches long and 23 pounds....Prime Choice for a lineman or Defensive back in the NFL in about 20 years.

Girls are all great and getting ready as we speak to celebrate Alexxis' 11th birthday tonight at her "Libby Lu" party --- more pics to come on that later.

Well -- Christmas cards and letters are out, prayer cards are in and we we are ready for the Holidays ........Pray all is well with you -- drop us a line, send us a comment, or give us a call -- would love to get together with you all soon....

Together in Service with you for the Kingdom,

The Phillips Family

Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado) Pics

2008-11-12T13:51:00.013-07:00

2 Weekends ago on Saturday the 1st of November we got to spend the weekend gallivanting around Colorado to see the sites as we had a break from the training. Cheryl had seen and heard Estes Park was the place to go -- so, we went....we enjoyed hiking (OK, Enjoyed is a relative term when your trying to push a stroller loaded down with Preston (22.5 pounds), Jackets, Food, and other ancillary items like Diaper bags, etc....up hiking trails not designed for strollers.....Lets just say it was a workout -- BUT FUN....

Although we did not stay long we managed a few pics of Alberta Falls we hiked too as well as the valley area where the Elk were gathered and bugeling still...It was a lot of fun and the Girls loved it....

Sunday proved a little more sightseeing -- this time to Colorado Springs and the Cheyenne Mountain Park Zoo -- The only zoo built entirely on the side of a mountain. It was a blast and only took 1 & 1/2 hours to get through the whole thing. I believe that the girls and I had the most fun feeding the Giraffe's their special crackers (which we just like Triscuits -- and yes I took a bite of one to taste myself -- yea I know I am wacko!!!) but I think Cheryl and Preston had the most fun at the Gorilla exhibit --- check out the photo below.....

Colorado was a beautiful state and we cannot wait to spend more time there given the opportunity....

Gabe

Thank You Jesus for Our Family & Friends

2008-11-11T11:25:00.004-07:00

I just want this to be a simple THANK YOU to all our our family and friends....You all mean so very much to us and we Want to say THANK YOU for your prayers, your love, your support, and your Friendship....No long diatribe about anything....Just Thankfulness to you and to the Lord who deserves all the Glory and Honor !!!!

Some of our new Family of Friends in Christ.....

WorldVenture Appointment Class of Fall 2008

Tori & Greg Finley, Elizabeth Brandon Heersink, Cheryl & I

John and Stella White, Anne Laine, Mike & Ghed Miguel, &

Jonathan Stone.

ITS OFFICIAL - We're Long Term Missionaries with WorldVenture

2008-10-27T20:11:00.009-07:00

This will be a very short post, but as time permits tomorrow I will update with pictures and other info from the first 2 days here in Littleton, CO. 1st -- Please pray for my Aunt Bonnie from West Virginia -- she is battling liver failure and the remnants of many chemical treatments over the years from Breast Cancer. She is being taken to Cleveland for a liver transplant and really could use all of our prayer. We Love her and are praying that God will completely heal her.

As the title states, earlier today after (1pm CO time) we had our 2 hour interview with the sending committee for long term candidates. We were questioned on our personal beliefs, doctrinal statements, journey to this missions direction, and our personal testimonies. After the meeting we were asked to stand outside and await their decision. After 10 minutes or so we were asked back in to hear the committee's decision. They were pleased (as we were -- ok move relieved) to accept us and approve us as Long-Term missionaries with WV to Poland. Our new best friends here in CO (Johnathon Stone & Brandon & Elizabeth Heersink) were also appointed today.

We are all very pleased and thankful to the Lord for guiding us in this new phase of life. Tomorrow 4 other candidates have final interviews and we ask for prayer for them..(Ann from Mesa, AZ. / Mike & Ghed from CO /Greg & Tori Finley from the UK / & Stella White from the Ukraine)....These folks are all very very special to us and we ask you to interced on their behalf for peace and clarity tomorrow and that they too would be appointed.

More tomorrow as time permits and I will add pictures.

WAY TO LONG

2008-10-17T09:40:00.039-07:00

Despite my inability to keep up on this blog regularly over the past 6 weeks, I am adding an entry from our Family Vacation and Mini Family Reunion in Orlando Florida last week. We had an amazing time. We began the journey on October 4Th leaving bright and early from PHX (we arrived at 5:45am) and proceeded to take flights from PHX to Oklahoma City, then St. Louis, then finally Orlando...Wasn't to thrilled with Southwest Airlines 1 stop description that meant you had 1 additional stop on top of the connection we were making in St. Louis to get to Orlando, but all went smooth and we arrive on time in sunny Orlando. We proceeded to get our rental van and took off for a bite to eat (McDonald's -- YUCK) and then off to the Hotel for the 1 night before we were allowed to check into our Condo for the week.

Sunday 10/5

We tried to sleep in but based on being 3 hours behind we were all up early after going to be early. We met Pops @ his hotel and picked him up for the day. we started by grabbing some grub at the local Denny's and then hit the grocery store for the breakfast items and snacks we knew we would need for the week at the condo...cookies, crackers, ice cream, juice, milk, soda, and any other junk we could find....oh we did buy a few Bananas but that was it for healthy....got to the condo checked in and were very pleased with the accommodations...3 bedrooms 3 baths and our master bath was mike a museum...had a Jacuzzi tub that could fit 3 adults...it was HUGE....We then took off to Universal Islands of Adventure to get in and have some fun at the park...Hit the Dr. Seuss land and the cat in the hat rides and then spent some time walking throughout the rest of the park to see what there was and what rides we would go on...

Monday 10/6-

Decided to do Wet N Wild today -- the water park over next to Universal...What a cool place! As you can see from the photos it was a beautiful Sunny day with large passing clouds from time to time. The water was cooler than we are used t here in AZ but it was refreshing and nice...Preston really enjoyed the water, and the rest of us enjoyed hopping back and forth to slides, wave pools, kiddie areas, lazy rivers and other rides that everyone enjoyed immensely. This was a full day and some got a little more sun than we wanted but overall it was a fantastic day in the water.

Tuesday 10/7 -

Spent the morning at Universal Studios where we all saw Shrek 4-D, Twister and then go a huge downpour of rain that must have lasted probably 45 minutes of so....so with that we headed out to catch a movie at the local theater (Beverly Hills Chihuahua) -- the girls really enjoyed it and Cheryl, Pop Pop and I made it through as well...finally leaving the theater to head out 45 miles to Viera to see our friends the Carters in their new home and have dinner. It was quite a long day but really enjoyed getting to see Rich and Sherri and the kids and seeing the area in which the now reside.

Wednesday 10/8 -

We started out to the mall to get some earrings for the girls as they had left theirs at home and we did not want their ears to close up, and at the same time we were able to meet Uncle Kirk and Vicky who had come in from SC the night before. We spent some time shopping and then headed back to the mall after letting Pop Pop go with

Uncle Kirk to pick up Madeline (my cousin from WV) at the airport and Grandma Matty who was also flying in. We took this as a down day since we had been going for 4 days straight and the girls were exhausted. Met Madeline at the condo once we all got back in the evening and then had pizza at a nearby Italian restuarant.

Thursday 10/9 -

Back to the parks again (Universal Islands of Adventure & Universal Studios) where we achieved some more rides and had some roller coaster fun with Uncle Kirk and Madeline. Then after half a day we decided to go back to Wet n Wild and have some more water time....What a great idea as we met up with Aunt Piper and Uncle Phil as well as Bria and eventually Drew. More slides, shoots, rivers, and wave pools around and more exhaustion by the end of the day. we all made it back to freshen up before having a huge family dinner for 15 at a local restuarant. We all chatted, caught up, goofed and had tons of fun -- and not to mention TONS of Ice Cream -- check out this Sundae.....WOW..

Friday 10/10 -

As if it were not enough time at the parks already we went back again -- more roller coasters, more rides, more getting wet and more exhaustion....This time everyone went along together and we enjoyed about half a day until we made the executive decision to call in on account of tiredness...at least we thought thats what we were going to do. natalie had split off with Pop Pop, Grandma Matty and Uncle Kirk, and the teenagers all went their own way as well. well by the time we got a hold of Natalie to give her the option of staying or going back to the condo to rest, Payton and Alexxis decided they wanted to do E.T. and some kids coasters in Universal....so off to those we went and ended up meeting Natalie, Pop Pop, and Grandma Matty outside E.T. where we all just hooked up again and finished another long day at the park...Off to Olive garden for a nother family dinner and then back for some sleep ---SLEEP -- whats that its Vacation....

Saturday 10/11 -

Well Pop Pop woke up with a migraine (Cant imagine why) and they had to pack as they were leaving for the Airport i a few hours to return to home (LV). we had said out goodbyes the evening before to Unlce Kirk and Vicky as they were driving home today as well to SC. So, after natalie pulled her loose tooth out (see picture) we headed off to Gatorland as just the core family. It was pricey for what you got but we can now say we did it and not have to do it again...Lots of Alligators, some Salty's (Croc's), enjoyed feeding an apple to some to get them to snap, and some Alligator wrestling to top it all off. Was a lot of fun. we headed back to the Condo once more and then had dinner with a colleague of mine who was up for the day from Tampa. We enjoyed a meal with him and his family and then back to bed for tomorrow is out last day of fun and we are going back to see teh Famous Carters and the Beach !!!! WOOHOO

Sunday 10/12 -

Got up early, picked up Madeline from Uncle Phil and off to Viera (Cocoa Beach area) we went. Got to the Carters around 9:20am and went to service with them at the church they have been attending in the Viera Area. Enjoyed ourselves at service, had some lunch and off to the beach we went....Was a little overcast and some storms were a brewing off the coast but nothing actually hit and all went around us as we played, frolicked, and battled the rip tides and waves as they came in.....It was quite a fun afternoon. After the beach fun we were back to Rich and Sheri's home for some pizza and cookies....Wish we could have stayed an additional week with them but had to get back to our hotel in Orlando as Madeline needed to be at the airport by 6:30am for her flight back to WV.

Moday 10/13 -

Got up, Got Madeline to the Airport on time and then back to try and sleep (but that would not happen). Preston wanted to be up so I played with him while cheryl tried to catch some more zzzz's....Packed up and off we went to the Airport, returned the car, boarded the plane and 5 1/2 hours later we were home with Pongo....

Whirlwind Blog entry I know -- no way to pack all of the fun and memories we had into a blog so I did not try -- just wanted to give you a flavor for the daily activities and fun we had....The pictures tell much more of a story....We were so very blessed by God to hav been able to go on this trip, see all of the family at the same time, and spend some really nice days in the beautiful Florida climate.....we will be abck again some day.

Praise you Father for our fun, for our family, friends, and the ability for us to have a little R&R....We Love you Jesus

Thanks to all of our family and friends for sacrificing their time, vacation, money and prayers while we were gone. All of our Love,

The Phillips Family.

Nike - Human Race Day

2008-08-31T09:55:00.002-07:00

Today was the day, the Nike 10K Human Race Day.....Got the bug a few weeks ago when I saw it after uploading my run for the day. You sign up on the Nike+ website and then pledge to run so many miles for a specific charity that Nike will donate money to on your behalf....Pretty cool...I signed up and pledged to run 40 miles for the UN World Agency Fund...Helping those in affected areas such as Darfur etc.

It was great to make sure I owned up to my pledge and then get Alexxis involved on the actual day of the "human Race". Nike wanted everyone to run a 10K, but since Alexxis was with me we did a 2 mile run and then a 2 mile walk for a total of 4 miles. Was fun to have my daughter running alongside and enjoying something I do, as we are almost polar opposite the rest of the time...Here is our photo before heading out this AM to run...Beautiful overcast and cool weather today after a storm last night so perfect running weather for August/ Spetember timeframe here in AZ.

Well, I hope if you did any of the Human race you met your goals and made Nike pony up some much needed Cash for those who are going through more than we could ever imagine...as is stated in Hosea 2:19 "I will make you my promised bride forever. I will be good and fair; I will show you my love and mercy." He certainly has shown this country his love and mercy and I pray that the masses would realize it and start worshiping and honoring God with our Country....

Gabe Phillips

POLAND PRESENTATION

2008-08-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

A Vision For Poland

View SlideShare presentation or Upload your own. (tags: poland ministry)

HAVASU & PRESTON PICS

2008-08-27T16:59:00.012-07:00

FINALLY WENT TO LAKE HAVASU AFTER 5 YEARS OF BEING AWAY (I USUALLY COMPLAIN AND SAY I HATE IT,,,,BUT FOR MY NIECE I SUCKED IT UP AND YOU KNOW WHAT -- ACTUALLY HAD A FANTASTIC TIME...THANKS ASH!!!

Went up friday evening, had dinner with Julie, Ash& Dillon @ the homestead....then took off in Julie's convertible up to the house I grew up in on Northstar. It was recently painted and looked nice and the old railroad tie gazebo was still out back that my Dad built by himself.. Was neat seeing it again...next time we go up I have got to remember to take the camera and get a picture...Went up to the new divisions all around Wart mountain and saw how much development is behind there now....unbelievable....who would have thought....we used to ride ATV's back there when there was nothing out there...

Saturday we took off to the nautical to spend some time at the beach, though about renting sea-doos but instead paid for the kids to hang at the aqua park that there so they could paly for an hour or two....pretty fun rock climning icebergs and sliding into the water....the girls had a a blast and so did we. Presto hung out on the beach with either Julie or cheryl who traded off in the water...he slept a bit then we had to go as it was like 114 outside....too hot....Grabbed some Ed's Deli subs and back to the house to relax......

Got together @ Zach's house for the evening (they were having his son Alex's 7th b-day party) with all the family (Cheryl, Rusty, Jason, Zach, the kids, Krsitens whole family,etc....) was a great time and was really nice to reconnect with them.....we will definitely do it again soon....

Sunday we had breakfast with Ed and Ilene and had a really nice time together before we drove home.....all in all a great trip and a jaunt down memory lane.

This guy is just blowing through all of his clothes and is now in the 6-12 month clothes range based on maker and style of clothes we have.....He is going to be a very big boy if this is just the beginning....So though you all might enjoy some more pics of the BMIC (Big Man In the Crib).... Some from today in his Dump Truck Overalls and ones from the other Day in Lake Havasu at the Nautical Inn Beach....

Gabe

P X 3 - Debut

2008-08-14T09:15:00.003-07:00

Here is the very first video from the girls posted on Youtube today.....There show is called
P X 3 (P times 3)....Check it out let them know what you think........

http://www.youtube.com/

Search for P X 3

GO WORLD !!!!

2008-08-10T08:55:00.019-07:00

2008 Olympic Games (GO POLAND & USA)

Our traditional (every 2 years) Olympic celebration went off without a hitch again this year. Our bestest friends the Sivleys arrived @ 6:15ish or so and the party started.

As you can see the spread was amazing: Teriyaki Chicken with Rice, Lettuce Wraps, Olympic Themed cookie circles with fruit topping, festive flags, Team shirts, etc,etc,etc.....Darren and I as well as our kids are so very blessed to have such AWESOME WIVES who came up with all this stuff....Cheryl even came up with name place cards with everyones names in Chinese and with a China fact sheet and word puzzle for the kids to enjoy during dinner.

After dinner, we geared up for some competition....

1st off - Family individual Medley in the Pool...

Preston and Jackson cheered on the sidelines..........................................

as Payton and Brooklyn lept off the starting blocks and into the pool, followed by Natalie & Jillian, then Alexxis & Grant, Cheryl & Sara, then finally Gabe & Darren....This was a very close race but in the end TEAM POLAND edged out TEAM USA to take the Gold Medal!!!!!

The next (and unfortunatley due to light and time restrictions - the final event) was Noodle Baseball where play lasted all of 2 1/2 innings before the game was called on account of a Homerun ball being hit out of the pool, park, and yard......TEAM USA won the match 3-1 and thereby took the Gold Medal!!!!!

We ended the evening watching the parade of nations, cheering for our favorite teams and had a great and wonderful time in fellowship as friends. Praise the Lord for such great friends!!

We ask you to join us in Prayer and Intersession for the residents of South Ossetia, Georgia where War has broken out and people, and their lives are being turned upside down.

The Phillips Family

PRESTON & Polska Wygrywać

2008-08-07T07:17:00.007-07:00

Our little Man continues to grow and grow and grow, and then grow some more -- it is unbelievable how fast they grow and how much he is growing already...Cheryl took his in last Wedensday for his 9 week checkup and he was 15.8 pounds and 26.25 inches long...a Pure Linebacker at least for now - in the 100% for his weight anf 90% for his height....I imagine as I write this blog entry that he is already over 16 pounds by now 0- maybe even 16.5 (UGH) and we are already complaining about carrying him around!!!! Here are some of the latest pictures of him and some of us as well...
BEAUTIFUL BOY & HOT MOM !!!!!!!

DAD & SON Girls LOVE school and we have some friends coming over for an Olympics Kickoff Dinner tomorrow night -- it should be a fun time, Olympic themed dinner, competetion and lot of trash talking.....Don't miss coming back in a few days to see the results and the pics from the event --
BIG SMILE NOW

Its Team USA (The Sivley's) vs. Team Poland (Phillips) in an all out battle for supremacy.....ok, well maybe not supremacy but it will be fun!!!! Cheer with us for Team USA & Team POLAND this Olympics !!

Polska Wygrywać

School has begun.......08/09 Year

2008-07-24T14:31:00.008-07:00

Proverbs 22:6 States:

" Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." This literally means to train them up according to their (the child's) way... It is natural for us to want to bring up all of our children alike (I mean are we in the literal here or what - look how our girls are dressed - LOL LOL), or train them the same way.

This verse implies that parents should discern the individual and special strengths that God has given each one. While we should not condone or excuse self-will, each child has natural inclinations that Parents can develop. by talking to teachers, other parents, grandparents, etc... we can better discern and develop the individual capabilities of each child. We do train them to choose the right way however, and even though each might not take the steps to get there, we all pray they will not stray from that path God has layed out before us.

Today, we once again have sent our children off into the throws of the Education System and told them " learn and have fun". Alexxis begins 5th grade (OMGosh, 2 years from Junior High), Natalie begins 3rd Grade, and Payton today began her kindergarten career (OMGosh X 1000 - our little Squishy Fishy is no longer home with us).

We love our school, the staff & teachers, our kids friends and their parents and we pray God's richest blessings on them this school year and that each one of our little ones would shine the light of Jesus to their teachers, friends, and all who come into contact with us and them. Watch over them Father as we have committed them and this year to you.

Gabe & Cheryl Phillips

Summer Sun & Fun

2008-07-16T20:11:00.015-07:00

I know we live in Arizona (Phoenix a.k.a. valley of the sun) but I still don't think it is possible to have any more Summer fun than these girls & preston have had......Cheerleading camp, Sunsplash waterpark, swimming pool, swim team practice, swim team meets, Pop Pop coming in, Ashley & Juju coming in, Makutu's Island, and more and more and more.

Can any of them ever say they were not blessed....no way. Too much fun....

Here are some great pictures of all the fun and adventures they have had over just the last week of summer here.

Happy Summer 2008 Girls, Preston, Sivleys' and Ashley !!!!!!

POPS & "POP POP" (4th of July)

2008-07-05T12:10:00.001-07:00

POP POP

Well, Pop Pop flew in Thursday am from Lost Wages and so far we are having a great time....The whole clan met Pop Pop at the Airport and wisked him home to the house for an afternoon of going to the gym and an evening out to dinner. The girls just love it when Pop Pop comes in to visit....They have an Absolute Blast....Pop Pop also got to see Preston for the first time and Preston loves it all as well.

Friday, we all went to the movies (Gilrs saw Mr. Magoriums Wonder Emporium) & Pops and I saw Hancock....Everyone enjoyed the popcorn and the relaxing Air conditioned theatre as it was like 1000 degrees outside...at least....

Then off the the Diamondback game....Had dinner at T.G.I.Fridays and then enjoyed nosebleed seats in the 540th Row at Chase Field......We had no view of the field but we could see the air conditiong ducts just fine......FYI -- Never buy 32nd Row in any of the 300 sections...It was THE VERY LAST ROW......Had to move down about 6 stories just to get a slightly obstructed view of the fireworks....but it was an awesome fireworks display -- best we've ever seen....so all in all a Great day....

Saturday morning saw a very late start -- Breakfast @ 10am and then booking our time share for us to share a vacation in Florida in October with Pop Pop and Grandma Matty. We also headed off to the Home depot for about 30 minutes to build a bird house with the kids for the Home Depot Kids Club monthly event....what fun -- heated competition to see whose bird house was more perfect....The Pop/ Natalie home had upside down windows and some gaps in flooring / Gabe's and Alexxis' home had a crroked roof with a nice gap for air transference and I think the best of all was the Mommy Payton home which was perfect but took 3 1/2 hours to build. Pops and Gabe's homes were FHA so built in 2 minutes.... more to come today pool time and tomorrow......LOVE IT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sharing with Friends in Worship & Splashing

2008-06-29T15:32:00.011-07:00

Blessed be the name of the Lord !

Today we had a chance to visit our good friends (Rich & Sherri Carter) church (Sun Valley Community). We had thought about attending a while ago (since it resides less than 1/4 mile from our home) but for many reasons could never actually get to visit on a Sunday.Well, today we did and we had a great time. The new building they have and the facilities are quite amazing. We were greeted by some of the staff upon arriving and seeing Sherri and had a wonderful time sharing in the worship and message provided by Pastors Matthew and Chad.

Afterwards, we retreated to one f our favorite pastimes on a Sunday mid-day / afternoon -- A trip to Costco to get supplies for the new month that is upon us. We decided we would partake of the hot dog and pizza lunch specials today for lunch prior to shopping..Preston seemed to enjoy his trip and even survived the frigid Arctic feel of the Costco FREEZER -- Man that place is chilly....

Well this evening we are celebrating a chance to splash, play and fellowship with our church congregation at Desert Oasis water Facility. The event starts tonight @ 6:30 and goes to 8:30 so the kids and Cheryl and I will enjoy I am sure. Preston is all ready and set to go as well....not into the water quite yet, but he will certainly enjoy his friends and I am sure my arms of love waiting to hold him and share in the joy that is an infant.

PRAYER REQUEST

For those of you that count prayer as a critical part of your lives and walk with our Lord Jesus, I ask that you pray an unnamed prayer with me. There is a desperate call that needs to be answered and I ask you join me in asking God to reveal himself in a life and take away the desperation and sadness that exists in this life. I recall my devotional message from yesterday it and how appropriate it is for this request. 1 Peter 2:20 says "If you suffer for doing good, and you are patient, then God is pleased"....Paul counted it as GAIN to suffer in the name of the Lord and we should as well, despite the pain that is sometimes required in the offering....Praise You Jesus as you are a God who Answers Prayer.

GP

Nat 8th B-Day !!!!

2008-06-24T10:05:00.014-07:00

Happy 8th Birthday Natalie !!

On June 23rd, 2000 (8 years ago) we were blessed by the Lord for the 2nd time in our daughter Natalie. She celebrated last night with the traditional sleepover party with a few friends who were able to carve out the time over summer break.

They started the evening with some dinner, some dancing, and some singing (HS Musical on the Wii) and then promptly off to Brunswick XL Bowling Zone for 2 hours of Super-Stupendous Bowling Fun.....and fun it was......

The girls (Natalie, Erin, Jillina, Kaelyn & Alexxis) decided that since I threw a strike the very 1st ball, they would challenge (gang up on) me and add their scores together to compete against me....needless to say (after much trash talking and chanting "no pins, no pins, no pins" I was obliterated by the score of 955 to 330. Oh well, we all had a great time and it was a very fun and memorable evening....see some pics and videos below....Natalie and the rest of our family are so blessed that she has such great friends...Thanks for being a part of Natalie's special day.

Happy Birthday Natalie !!!!!!!

Jesus

2008-06-18T08:32:00.004-07:00

Jeremiah 32:27 states "I am the Lord , the God of every person on the earth. Nothing is impossible for me."

Just less than 3 weeks ago, I was wondering if I was going home with a Son and a Wife when the complications arose at the hospital..but God is Good all the time and as he stated so many centuries ago -- he is the God of every person on this earth.

He amazes me at every stop sign and corner I face in my life. Just when we feel that no one cares for us, that the situation is out of our control and we can do nothing, when we feel the world caving in around us...He is right there picking us up, dusting us off, and saying "I Love You", "I have always and will always Love you". Can you imagine....he loves each of us personally. He love is perfect, even though we are imperfect and undeserving.

I encourage everyone and anyone who reads this entry to understand one thing....it is not about us, it never has been...It has always and will always be about Jesus..If you are earnestly seeking to know him, all you have to do is call his name....he longs for an intimate, personal relationship with each of us despite our past, our present and our future....

You might have questions....great...seek them out, open the Bible...read for yourself...test the truths yourself....ask God to take control of your life and give you that peace you seek. Ask someone you know who has made this decision...they and we do not have every answer, but we are witnesses to the change in our own lives, his presence in our lives, and his redeeming love.

My heart cries out for my family, my friends, my co-workers, and anyone passing by to know him. I pray that his presence surrounds you this very moment.

Gabe

Bath & Pool Time for Preston

2008-06-13T10:16:00.005-07:00

Nothing Earth shattering over the past week except little sleep.....ok, not terribly bad when you get about 3 1/2 to 5 hours in a row...it is managable...but it wears on ya after about a week of

the 3 hour nights......

At the end of he Day it is all good -- he is doing well and I am just updating with some pictures of his first Bath and some time @ swim team practice with his new best friend Jackson....

Enjoy...Love you all.

Phillips6

Dance, Swim, & Camp

2008-06-08T09:51:00.012-07:00

2 Corinthians 4:18 says "What we see will last only a short time, but what we cannot see will last forever."

Gas Prices are soaring, costs are up in every one's budget, we all have less to spend than we wish too....and it seems as though it is only going to get worse....

I love this country we live in, but it has become a society of instant gratification, a "must have it now" and an "I deserve it" mantra. I am no different, I know I struggle with that same attitude, the same worldly desires...the "I want it now" attitude. Some might think that the above statement in 2 Corinthians justifies that attitude -- If we are only here for a short time we might as well make the most of it...take what we can while we can....but Paul actually meant the exact opposite. You might say Huh? How can it mean that....well.......

If you read the preceding chapters and verses and look at the bigger picture, Paul was encouraging the church in Corinth in their faith, that they can praise God for the trails and troubles they go through....to stay the course and not lose sight of Christ. No matter what adversity we face, we can keep going. Paul spoke from experience - he was shipwrecked several times, beaten almost to death several times, hunted, imprisoned, and received a "thorn in his flesh -- a physical affliction of some type that never went away...Paul speaks from experience, he doesn't just speak out of idea..but he speaks out of reality, out of his own personal trials.

Paul in no way encouraged the "get it while you can" motto. Rather, he encouraged us to understand that our troubles should not diminish our faith or dissolution us. we should realize that there is a purpose in our suffering. Problems and human limitations have several benefits 1) they remind us of Christ's suffering for us 2) they keep us from pride 3) they cause us to look beyond this brief life 4) they prove our faith to others, and finally they give God the opportunity to demonstrate his power. We should see our troubles as opportunities not dead ends or bad luck.

I find refuge in the scriptures God has given us to guide and have us live by....I find when my attitude becomes cynical or poor I just need look into the word of God - and I am re-energized...encouraged and refreshed...I pray this is the case for you today as well..

Daddy / Daughter Dance

I had the pleasure of accompanying Natalie to the Brownies Daddy/Daughter Dance this past Friday night. We got dressed up, and headed to Trilogy Country Club for the festivities. When we arrived we took a few pictures, then went inside for our seating and what would turn out to be a very very fun evening. I don't think I have danced that much since Cheryl's and my wedding. Natalie was glowing all night....she was in a beautiful purple dress, and was all over the dance floor once it seemed all the other Dads and Daughters were on the floor. We enjoyed Hawaiian BBQ for dinner, more dancing, cake, and lots more dancing....It was a blast and I pray it is something she remembers for a long time. Here are a few pics from the evening.

Swim Team Events Begin

Saturday morning came rapidly after the Daddy Daughter dance and Preston's awake time in the early am every day....But the Girls really were up to the challenge of the 1st swim meet of the summer. We drove to Clark Park and joined Tempe and Clark Pools for a combined meet against Rio Salado Swim Club. It was Hot, but the heat did not keep them from doing a great job in their events. Both Alexxis and Natalie were right back to where they left off last summer...turning in really good times in their heats and soaring through the water. Payton was a little nervous as this was her 1st meet ever but had no hesitation and did an excellent job -- participating in Backstroke, Breaststroke and freestyle...Coming in 4Th, 3rd and 5Th respectively...She DID GREAT and she loved it. Here are some more pics of the mornings events....

PRESCOTT PINES CAMP or BUST

Alexxis is spreading her wings for the 1st time this week as she took off for Summer Camp today up in Prescott Pines. She is joined by her friends Emily and Maddy for the next 5 days of cooler weather and fun times...We miss her already but we know she is going to have a great time and grow up a bit all at the same time. Here are some of the pre-camp drop off pics.....

Preston, Pool, & Photos.....

2008-06-05T11:41:00.009-07:00

Today I am singing that wonderful song 'This is the Day, This is the Day that the Lod hath made, I will rejoice, I will rejoice and be glad in it"....I have so much to be thankful for (A Georgeous Wife, 3 Beautiful and intelligent young daughters, and a sleepy young son -- oh and most of the time a good dog....Yes Pongo your good once and a while.

Took Preston to his first Dr. appt today and Cheryl wanted to go to - so we went together. All his checks went well and they poked his heel again for his 2nd PKU test (which he really did not like) but he is home now and enjoying the downstairs today rather than being stuck in bed with cheryl upstairs. Everyone is feeling much better and some sense of normal-ness has resumed here.

Mom & Nana dressed him in his "Man" clothes today as you can see here -- so it is really really nice to have another male in the home....

Tomorrow is Natalie's big "Father/Daughter Dance" where we get dressed up, professional pictures, etc for her Brownie troop. We are both excited and it should be a very fun evening of pictures, food, and dancing.. Here is a picture of her at her last brownie meeting where she got all of her final badges for the year...she did such a great job between all the fundraisers, events, and parades she participated in this year. She will beign again in July and I am sure many many more adventures to come.

Alexxis, Natalie, and Payton are off and swimming in their Swim team league...We were a little leary about Payton who just turned 5 in April making the jump into swim team due to her strength and stamina in the pool....but she has really taken to the water like a fish -- keeping up with the rigors of the team requirments and enjoying it every night with her Best friends the Sivleys....They are so so so so fun and we all love spending so much time with them every evening at practice.

Thanks again for all of the email's, card's, prayers, thoughts, gifts, etc. etc. etc.....

The Phillips Family

HOMECOMING !!!!!!

2008-06-04T07:24:00.010-07:00

2 Corinthians 12:9 reads - And He said to me, "My Grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Therefore, most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Have you ever really thought about that?....I hadn't until now and the events of late. Christ's strength is made perfect for us in our weakness...his glory is magnified through us and our afflictions, our persecutions, etc, etc, etc.... I don't mean our sinful infirmities, but rather those where He can manifest the power and sufficiency of his grace resting upon us. When we are weak, we are then strong in the grace of our father. Sounds like a paradox right -- when we are weak we are strong...but think about it again...our tank is empty and we remove ourselves from trying to control it....that's when we can let Christ reign....when his grace is strongest in our situation....What an Awesome God we serve.

PRESTON UPDATE:

Mom and Preston are Home.....Praise the Lord!!!!! Everyone is doing well, set up, and ready to start getting back to a semi-normal environment (sleep aside). The girls are thrilled to have him home and Cheryl is loving being able to be in her own clothes, her own bed, and with the family once again.
Here are some more pictures from the last few days and the other 2 videos I neglected to post the other day while in the hospital of the other sisters holding Preston.

If you want to stop the music to hear the videos, all you have to do is scroll all the way down the blog until you see the music player and hit pause. Then you can re-scroll back up and play the video with the audio so you can hear and understand.

We want to express our heartfelt "Thanks" for all the flowers, cards, gifts and visits we have been showered with over the past 7 days. Special thanks to Mom (of course), Dziadek, Sara Sivley, The Carters, The Copes, The Hayden's, Roger, Julie, and all of the wonderful nursing staff at banner Desert. Your Love and assistance is truly a blessing to us.

HONOR DUE

2008-06-01T22:03:00.006-07:00

Matthew 15:4 says "Honor your father and mother....". I would be remiss and out of line with scripture if I did not take the time to honor my mother specifically. I am certain of two things specifically when it comes to my Mom:

1) She truly is a God-send to us.

God has blessed us so very much to have her as such a critical part of our lives. She is always there for us: night, day, vacation, discovery trip, movie night, you name it. Great sports teams cannot win titles, championships, or make that final push to victory without the support and service of those folks behind the scenes always sacrificing to advance the goals and the team.

The Phoenix Suns despite being short of the title in the recent years call their fans "The Sixth Man" referring to the sixth player that is emotionally on the court at all times with them to help push them to victory...without the fans, and their support the team would not go anywhere. My mom is our "6th Man". Her tireless support, her constant service, her Love of Jesus, and her love for us speak volumes as to why we are the family that we are today.

2) She deserves more than I can give.

In my heart of hearts I yearn to have the resources to honor her the way she deserves to be honored..Tickertape parade, Hall of Fame Induction, Nobel Prize, and the list could go on...but I know that she does not want those things. I know she strives like many of us to hear those few precious words we so desire to hear from Jesus one day 'Well done good and faithful servant".

I am as convinced as I am of my salvation in Christ that she will hear those words one day and that she will receive a crown of un-imaginable beauty and majesty from the Lord himself for her service...........only to immediately lay it at his feet and cry "Holy is the Lamb". She is the kind of servant of the Lord I aspire to be someday.

I cannot comprehend our lives without her, nor do I wish to.

Mom, it is so unworthy to honor you with only words, but I cannot think of a more simple and gratifying way than to just express my most gracious "Thank You" and more importantly "I Love You".

Gabe

Preston - Day 2 "Reflections"

2008-05-31T20:34:00.004-07:00

If ever there was a time when God was speakig volumes through his scripture to me in my life, the last 2 days were definitely it. When I opened my devotional yesterday after all the events at the Hospital there was Jesus wrapping his arms around me and saying "He felt sorry for them and healed those who were sick" Matthew 14:14. This is not chance, this is not coincidence, it is not luck....it is God working in our lives and manifesting HIS glory out of impossible terrifying events and situations that we cannot even begin to fathom why they take place...He is right there next to us saying "cast all your cares upon me". Thank You Jesus for the preservation of my Wife, my son and my family. Praise The Lord.

Day 2 was a great day - Preston is doing well in the NICU making progress every hour, and Cheryl is in lots of pain but got to spend a lot of much needed emotion and encouraging time with him today. Here are some pictures that I think you will enjoy. More tomorrow -- and check out the couple of videos I placed up here of the girls with there new brother.

Blessings to you all and thank all of you for your prayers.

Gabe

PRAISE THE LORD - PRESTON IS HERE

2008-05-30T20:28:00.006-07:00

Despite many obstacles that I will not get into that transpired over the course of the last 42 hours I am happy to Announce the Arrival of our Son.

PRESTON RAYMOND PHILLIPS

Preston joined our world @ 10:45am amidst an emergency C-Section and having to be revived.

Preston Weighs in at a WHOPPING 9lbs 10.9 ounces -- Unbelievable

His lenght is 22.5 inches long.

Needless to say he is doing well tonight in the NICU on a 24 hour watch due to his trama coming out today via the earlier stated emergency c-section.

MOM is also doing well despite her struggles with a ruptured uterus and a torn bladder. She spent 3 1/2 hours being repaired in the OR today and gave us all quite a Scare.

Bottom Line is Our Lord Jesus Christ was with us every step of the way and cared for all the events of the day despite or fear. Just as Genesis 4:18 says "is anything to hard for the Lord? NO!!! Rejoice with us this day and please keep both Preston and Cheryl in your prayers.

Love to all, more to come..

Gabe, Alexxis, Natalie, and Payton

GO DIAMONDBACKS !!!!!

2008-04-22T15:58:00.006-07:00

Greetings,

The Diamondbacks had a "Faith &Family" night for $10 a ticket so we participated and bought 5 to go this past Saturday the 19th. What a fun time...We got their early enough that we all go a Micah Owings bobble head doll and so now we have 5 of them.

The girls (Alexxis & Natalie) and I walked around the entire park looking for a McDonald's (they are addicted) but could find no McDonald's to get them so they settled for Peter Piper Pizza. Cheryl has a cheeseburger and I had some Mexican burro thing from Garcia's....The game was a blowout -- we smoked the Padres and we had a great time. There was to be a Todd Agnew concert following but Payton was tired and almost falling asleep and @ 9:15 the group still had not set up so we bailed and went home to bed....

All in all a great time at the 'old ball game' and I am sure we will do it again this summer...Baseball is the best game, that's for sure....and we have the Best Team 00 at least so far through this season.....

Aunt DD sent us some 'Syracuse' infant clothes in the mail today for Preston...and an Irish onesie -- funny because it has a Shamrock on the backside.....He will look very cute in it...even if Syracuse is not my Alma mater...oh well I'll cheer for them anyway -- Go Orangemen!!! Thanks DD!!!!

We have started to collect quite the assortment of Boy clothes already and it is hard for me to still believe that in about 3 weeks he will be here and we will then have 4 and 1 Boy......AWESOME...The girls are so excited to have him coming as well.

Well not a big post but a fun one....so that's it from us for now....busy week this week -- every night something going on. Please pray for our 1st presentation on Thursday night of the Ministry and please continue to pray for our support as we ramp up efforts at local churches around. Also please pray for Erick & Tutie Venden - they can really used the prayer right now and some encouragement. Thanks to all -- We Love You.

Gabe & Cheryl

Payton's 5th B-Day Bash

2008-04-04T09:23:00.011-07:00

FUN FUN FUN & More FUN!!!!

Payton had her "Golden" Birthday Celebration last night

@ Amazing Jake's and what a time she had.

Payton and a number of her friends (and Sisters) had a great time eating, drinking, running, jumping, riding, bumping, and shooting each other for about 3 1/2 hours. Payton's friends Brookie, Amanda, Zackery, Kayle, Alexxis & Natalie all got to celebrate with her while Mom, Dad, Nana, Dziadek and some other parent's watched and participated with them in the festivities. Cheryl had the great idea of doing the party here due to the option of paying for all the food, drinks, and unlimited rides they could handle until closing....and that was it --- if you a kid who likes laser tag, frog hoppers, trains, carousels, rock walls, bumper cars, and go karts then "UNLIMITED" rides is as close to heaven as your going to get.....Well Here are some photos of the activities and kids, and of course the Birthday Girl...

LASER TAG...

TRAINS....

FROG HOPPER!!!

Which was great for kids after Pizza, Soda, Cake & Gallons of Ice Cream

HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY PAYTON........

WE LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed !!

2008-03-23T15:00:00.004-07:00

From our family to yours -- We wish you the happiest day of the year on this resurrection Sunday. May his message of Salvation penetrate your heart, soul, mind, and strength as we celebrate "Victory in Jesus" this day.

John 3:16 "For God so loved the World, that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have evelating life".

And for breakfast have some YUMMY YUMMY EASTER BUNNY PANCAKES !!!!

Family Spring Break Weekend

2008-03-23T13:14:00.014-07:00

Cheryl had offered the girls a little while ago to either go to spend the weekend up in Sunrise and playing in the snow or to go to California...and to our surprise and our wallets pleasure we headed for a small but eventful weekend in the White Mountains. We drove up through Globe, Show Low & Lakeside-Pinetop to enjoy some of what we though might be the last winter weather in Sunrise...but boy were we mistaken....No Snow, at least not in most of the areas outside of Sunrise...most were in full spring mode and had little if any of the white stuff around.

But as soon as we got into the sunrise area we found tons snow and a hill right next to the ski park that looked great for sledding. we all donned our winter gear and trodded down a steep hill to an area with a hill perfect for sledding. The snow was packed deep and was a little hard as no new snow had fallen in over a week, but it was pretty and it would do just fine. All of the girls and even cheryl got into the spirit of sledding down the hill for about an hour and a half. After tredging up the hill numerous times with more gear on then normal they all got tired out pretty quickly so we headed to the resort (ok, lets not embellish here -- I would hardly call it a resort -- in fact it was more like a motel 8 with no smoke detector). The girls were really excited to find out they had a heated pool (albeit very small pool) and a spa for them to enjoy...so we got in our bathing suits and jumped in for some warm fun amidst all the snow.

Soon after we headed for town to grab some dinner some 25 miles away (not close, but their were no other choices) and found Charlie's Steakhouse that filled out tummies and then some. Cheryl had the largest rib plate I had ever seen and I had a half chicken (This place had no portion control built in) plate. The food was very good and the time as a family was even better. After dinner we headed back to the motel (see I won't call it a resort again) to hit the pillow for a hopeful nights rest before all day skiing and lessons and snow fun. Everyone headed to bed and were asleep until 11pm when we awoke to Payton getting sick all over her and Natalie's bed. Unfortunately all over the sheets, pillows and floor as well. YUCK!!!! We rang the desk for some assistance and by the time we got everythig cleaned up and payton re-washed they arrived with some new sheets and a few pillows -- but no blakets, and no fitted sheet....it was hard to rig the bed for the kids so we just got the sleeping bags out and decided it was better than nothing.

Well morning arrived and thankfully everyone was healthy and no more sickness. We were all a bit tired however. We got to the Ski park, paid for the kids lessons, rental gear and lift tickets and we were off to get fitted for boots and skis. We then waited and made snow angels until 10am when the kids (Alexxis & Natalie) could start their lessons. They began their lessons, and I also grabbed my ski's and hit the bunny hill to practice as it had been 11 years for me....and an evolution of skis in the past.

I got the hang of the parabolic skis relatively quickly and really felt confident and comfortable. So I got a few more runs on the bunny hill down and made sure I was turning and stopping appropriately before I hit the real slopes. I hit the moderate hills and really was enjoying myself after a few succesful runs down but on the 4th run I got a little faster than I had anticipated and started to slow down by turning when I caught an edge and over I went. Not to the back mind you as you are supposed to fall on skis -- but instead right over and onto my right shoulder....I heard a pop and I presumed to lay there for a few minutes to see how bad I had injured myself.

Once I got up I got dizzy and my shoulder was really hurting so I sat down for another minute and decided i would snow plow the rest fo the way down the hill to get to the aid station. Once arriving down at teh end of the slope I told cheryl my day had ended and off I went to the Aid Station. They felt around and decided I had sprained the shoulder bad and maybe even a slight dislocation. Well, there went the day -- probably for the better anyway as Cheryl was readyto pull her hair out after 4 hours standing in the cold windy snowy morning with Payton being -- well lets just say not being so cordial and fun...Girls were also done with their lessons and complaining of hurting feet and toes....so we left and off to town to find an urgent care. We ate along the way and by the time the Ibuprofen set in I was doing better. I had it in a sling most of the day but we avoided the ER and we decided to just go back and get some Pizza for the night and watch a movie. It was great fun and we enjoyed the day despite the troubles.

We drove home on Monday through some really wacky weather -- Snow ovenight of about a foot, then out of the snow to sun, back into snow, ice, hail, sleet, and even rain -- all within the course of getting from sunrise to home in about 4 hours. It was a wild weekend but well worth the pain and the expense for some great memories and eventually more skiing as the girls are smitten with it. Well that was our adventure....God is always so good to us and watching out for us even when we don't see things coming...Love to all of you....

Here is a fun video for your viewing....

God Bless,

Gabe & Cheryl.

ITS OFFICIAL - POLAND is our Destination.

2008-03-14T14:46:00.003-07:00

Its finally official. On Sunday, March 9Th, 2008 God revealed through his word to us about the location we are to serve. It will be POLAND !!!!!

We are so excited and very relieved to not have made the decision of our own flesh. we also have realized that a Mid-Term assignment is not going to fit the bill when it comes to developing a firm conversational knowledge of the language and culture before engaging in effective ministry in the heart language. Based on this information and from great council from those who are in country, we have decided to pursue Long-Term appointment with WV. Initial reaction has been great and we are just waiting on some of the logistical information to fall into place so we can start fundraising and get officially "Appointed" in June.

Cheryl is doing well and getting large as the baby is running about 3/4 of a pound larger than normal at this stage....they tested Cheryl for gestational diabetes's - however the test was negative -- for which we are very thankful to God for. Cheryl however felt like a pin cushion as they gauged her 4 times for blood that day for the test -- OUCH !!!!

The girls are also all doing well in school and keeping up with their activities...Natalie really enjoys girl scouts and sold a total of 289 boxes @ $4 a piece -- so she raised just over $1,156 for her troop. Well done Natalie !!!!

we are heading up to Sunrise this weekend for the 1st time ever to try skiing (No not Cheryl) with the girls...Alexxis, Natalie & I will all don the snow sticks for some fun in the snow while Cheryl and Payton stay close to the lodge sledding and making snowmen. we are all excited and we are praying for good weather.

That's our update for now....Please continue to pray for the allocation of funds for our ministry and that we can start fundraising very soon as we continue down this path the lord has called us to. Blessings to you all.

Gabe, Cheryl & The Girls.

Poland - Day 8

2008-02-21T13:24:00.003-07:00

Today was a pretty realaxing day for the most part. We woke up and figured we might get out, but by the time Paul got back from his Berlin trip it was early afternoon. We decided to take some walks today and just talk and pray about what we have seen, digest some of the information and really just take some time to discuss our direction and leading of the spirit.

We really need to take some extra time when we get home to pray and probably do some fasting (me - not cheryl) to pray for confirmation and leading for the decision we want to make.

Tomorrow we will be taking off to see some prices for vehicles (vans) and also spend some time souvenir shopping as we have not done any of that so far in this trip. Tomorrow night we expect to have some more downtime and just sit, pray, and talk over all of the things we have seen and been presented with over the past 5 months of "discovery".

Praying for all of you at home -- especially the Stewart family and Wes's continued progress and recovery from this rare syndrome.

More tomorrow and our last post on Saturday -- we are going to attempt to get standby on an earlier flight to Phoenix out of Philadelphia on Sunday so we can get in earlier and get a good nights rest.

Blessings to all of you,

Gabe & Cheryl

Poland - Day 7

2008-02-20T12:22:00.002-07:00

We woke up this morning to some sad news that Karens father in the S.F. Area was not doing well and paul had to return to Poznan to make sure she got off to the airport in Berlin and home for this sobering news. So, we had a choice --

1) Stay with the Hackers and catch a train to Krakow, then find accomodations in Krakow and then finding and buying tickets for the train back to Poznan.

2) Go back with Paul and stick around Poznan and spend more time with him and the other team members in Poznan.

So we decided since Cheryl had been experiencing some contractions (Braxton -- but still an issue) and our Polish is severly lacking -- we went with option 2...

So we had to forego the Majdanek death camp in Lublin and Krakow -- maybe just a way of the Lord saying we will have to come back...

We spent about 5 hours in the car heading back to Poznan from Lublin and then arrived to have some dinner and then watch some movies with the kids as Paul took Karen to berlin and then would drive back the next day.

No pics as nothing really happened except a bunch of sitting in a car in the Polish countryside.

Pray for Karen and her father and the family left behind here in Poland as they are without their wife and mother for 2 weeks.

Thanks again for all of your prayers -- we are so grateful to have such a great support group at home and abroad..

Gabe & Cheryl

Poland - Day 6

2008-02-20T11:59:00.004-07:00

Today we awoke to another Polish breakfast (Cheese, Bread, and Meat Slices). We then drove off to see the King's Palace where Waldek wanted to allow us to enjoy the gardens and the Museum that were there.

The Museum was closed so we just walked around and enjoyed the gardens and the grounds of the Palace. Many different monuments were along the paths and a nice lake that surrounded the area. We walked around the grounds for over 2 hours and then headed back to the flat buying flowers on the way for Alicia and Ewa. Euguniez And Alicia had made Gwumptkie for us and it was so very good (just like Babka) used to make in Lake Havasu. It was a nice time discussing politics, plans, and other family history.

Once finished -- Waldek took us to the central train station to meet with Paul and Randy to have dinner and then drive to Lublin for a visit to the language school the next year. We are dinner with a business consultant from Warsaw and enjoyed eating some light dinner with him and Randy and Paul. We then left the train station and traveled to Lublin over the course of about 2 1/2 hours. We enjoyed getting to know Randy on the way and understanding what he does for WV and explained what we were considering. We arrived @ 10:30pm went right to bed since the family was already sleeping. Tomorrow is the language school and Mydonek (A concentration camp specifically designed to do nothing except exterminate people during the Nazi reign).

Gabe & Cheryl

Poland - Day 5

2008-02-20T11:24:00.006-07:00

We woke up to Snow !!!! it was a light covering but enough to make things look really pretty outside. We got ready and Waldek and Ewa arrived with fresh polish bread and a traditional Polish breakfast (cheese, bread, and meat slices). We then headed off to the Warsaw Uprising Museum where we engaged in about 2-3 hours of watching, listening, and reading about the entire chronology of the invasion, destruction, and uprising within Warsaw during WWII. We sincerely enjoyed our time there and spent many wonderful conversation from our host Waldek and his extensive knowledge of Polish and WWII history.

We then were off to Alicia & Euguniez's home where we got to finally meet Alexander (Waldek & Ewa's 3 year old son). They again were so very welcoming and hospitable that it really means a great deal more than they could ever imagine to us. We ate another traditional lunch with meat, cheese and salad. and then were presented with the most enjoyable Beef Stroganoff and some wonderful apple cake and desserts. we again had good conversation about the family, the Polish history we viewed earlier in the day and it was all possible thanks to the great translation by Waldek and Ewa. Since Alexander was not feeling so well, waldek took Cheryl and I to visit the old town square and the old part of Warsaw. We visited St. John's Cathedral, its tombs of famous Polish inhabitants, and then off to view downtown squares, parliment buildings, embassy's and other sights to see from the car as it had become dark and into the evening.

We ate dinner tonight at a Greek restuarant not far from the flat where we enjoyed a seafood plate and some pita bread for dinner. It was quite tasty and was so fun to again have such great conversation about life, adventures, trips, family, and happenings within the world.

We arrived back at the flat and had some Polish speciality water that Waldek insisted I try and we sat and again had more conversation and fellowship amongst our new developing relationship. We concluded the night at about 12:30am. Tomorrow is a lunch with Euguniez and Alicia again and 1 more sight in Warsaw (The Kings Palace) before meeting Paul and Randy for a trip to Lublin.

More to come....Thank you all for your prayers as we are here.

Gabe & Cheryl

Poland - Day 4

2008-02-20T11:00:00.005-07:00

Today we were up and ready and packed by 9:30am for church and then the trip to Warsaw. Service was a real treat (although it is very hard to participate in worship when you don't speak the language....so we just did our best and praised our Lord along with the congregation. Worship went on for about 45 minutes and then some announcements and a chance for us to give a short testimony of why we were there. Paul ushered us out at about 12:15 as the sermon was going longer than normal and he did not want us to be late for Waldek & Ewa who met us in the Lobby of the Sheraton @ 12:30pm.

After we packed Waldeks trunk full of our luggage (and we left 2 in Poznan not to overwhlem them) we dorve about 2 1/2 hours and stopped along the way at a Mcdonalds and had lunch together. we had some very nice conversation in the car and got to know them much better both professionally and personally.

After lunch we arrived in Plock (pronounced as P-wutzk). We visited the graves of Stanislaw Cybulski and his wife as well as the grave of Edmund Cybulski (Ewa's grandfather). It was freezing as the wind was high and the temperature was below freezing -- so it was a very cold afternoon. From there we headed in Warsaw where we stopped at Waldek's flat and dropped of our bags for a short rest and then off to dinner. We had a very nice dinner at a Polish restuarant where we dined on grilled sheeps cheese, wonderful Pierogie's, pork, meat, and vegetables as well. It was quite the nice evening as we shared and enjoyed each others company.

We headed back to the falt and to our surprise they gave us the use of their flat and drove to another flat they owned in another area about 5 minutes away. The hospitality of our family was overwhelming and so very very gracious of them.

Tomorrow we will be hanging out with them again and do some sight seeing as well as lunch over at Alicia's and Eugueniez home. So much looking forward to it...More tomorrow.

Gabe & Cheryl

Day 3 - Poland

2008-02-20T10:33:00.003-07:00

Paul picked us up this morning and we headed out to the oldest Cathedral in Poland. It was erected in 965A.D. and it was rebuilt 2 times due to war. Very beautiful on the outside and inside and had a crypt with past kings that ruled over the areas years ago. After that we drive by the most common style living quarters in Poland which are the old communist apartment buildings. He mentioned that some are falling apart due to the tack welding coming apart on the corners of the building where only 1 piece of metal is holding the concrete slabs together (very scary).

We came back to Haenze's home where we had lunch and where we played with their dog Chica and enjoyed a game or 2 of their Wii....We had a nice time. @ around 3:30pm we were off to the Mitt's home for dinner and fellowship where we shared our story of getting here and our vision of Ministry. They made us feel very much at home as we were able to just relax sit back and enjoy each others company as their hospitality was overwhelming.

That was Day 3 -- tomorrow we head to Church and then to Warsaw with Waldek & Ewa.

Gabe & Cheryl

Day 2 - Poland

2008-02-16T05:34:00.006-07:00

Day 2 was interesting, fun, and oh yeah -- we got fined!!!!

Started the day yesterday after getting a little more sleep and went back to the old town square to get some food at the only open place. In Poland nobody really eats breakfast accept at home...no restuarants are open until around 11am or later. So, we found a pub/pizzeria that was open and we ate some lunch. After that we headed back to the Hotel and grabbed jackets for heading to a Castle (Kornik). The Sheraton staff was very helpful for finding out how we were supposed to get to the Bus station where we could grab a local bus to the Castle.

So, we jumped on the tram - punched our tickets, and then off we went to the bus station. On the tram we found ourselves being inspected for tickets. So I popped out our tickets that I had stamped and I had double stamped a ticket that I suppose I had used last night -- well, that's not good and its a problem - even though I had spare blank tickets not stamped. So I was told I had to pay a fine for the 1 invalid ticket (100 Zloty - About $42 USD) -- OUCH -- and no grace...oh well I made the mistake so we paid and went on our way. Got to the Bus station and we found the bus, paid the driver, and off to Kornik we went. It had many rooms in the museum part and swords, maces, chain mail, daggers, etc... It was very interesting. Here are some of the photos from the trip. After the Museum we headed back to the Gardens and had a really nice walk around taking in the scenery (even though it was around 32 degrees).

Found our way back on the bus to Poznan and it started to Snow. it was Sunny but a front of snow clouds moved in and it began....It was great (here is the picture to prove it) and it did not last long as it cleared up but it was a great way to experience the day...Off to Dinner @ a local Polish restuarant over close to the Haenze's home and afterwards some great fellowship and sharing. we are really enjoying our time here and can't wait for each new day and how God reveals himself to us while we are here. Lots of commonalities, lots of opportunity, and lots of fun. More to come later.

Blessings,

Gabe & Cheryl

Poland - Day 1

2008-02-15T01:52:00.005-07:00

Well We arrived successfully to a group welcoming. The Mitts and the Haenze's all met us at the airport after 28 hours of travel and we are now ready for Day 2 of our trip. Day 1 was a great combination of sites and time with a wonderful family here in Poznan.

We visited the Poznan City Square and had a great time walking arouns (albiet a little Chilly). Then ain the afternoon Tucker and Meredith Boone and their children (Paisley, bethany, & Alsel) all welcomed us into their home for a wonderful time of fellowship, sharing and encouragement. We thank you all for your prayers while we are on this journey and cannot wait to write more as the days progress. Here are some pictures of day 1. Today we are off to see a Castle if we can figure out how to get there.....more later.

Blessings,

Gabe & Cheryl

Travel, Tennis, and Timing

2008-02-06T12:28:00.001-07:00

Here we are again....getting ready for our final "discovery trip". We are excited and we are ever more in prayer for clear and unified direction for our future. As we mentioned before we will meeting with a couple who serve from Intouch Missions on the 1st day we arrive and then we will be hooking up with the GEM missionary for the following 10 days in Poland and others along the way from Worldventure and various other organizations to get a good "partnering" view of what is going on in Eastern Europe and how we fit in.

The girls as always are excited to have Nana taking care of them while we are gone. She is so good to us and such a blessing in our lives. We are so thankful for her presence here and her selflessness in assisting us during this process we are going through. We could not do this without God's provision through her.

I will be signing Alexxis & Natalie up for Tennis this weekend -- and they are excited...we spent some $$ and got them some basic rackets at Walmart and they will start there 8 weeks of lessons just after spring break finishes at the end of March. I pray they grab onto it and really enjoy the game as I do -- but as long as they are having fun -- so am I. We really enjoyed watching the Austrailan open these past few weeks as the matches would play in the evening for us... We were all routing for James Blake, and he did marvelously however others prevailed and we will have to route for him again come Roland Garros and Wimbledon this summer.

Timing is everything and we all know that the Lord's timing is perfect. The little man growing inside of Cheryl has fluid in the kidneys according to all the ultrasounds that the Dr. has ordered for Cheryl and they are watching it as it should clear up by birth -- but they are watching none the less. We are praying of course for health and and easy delivery for Cheryl and pray we can decide on a name by the end of this little ones "cooking".

If you read this Blog -- please pray for our Friends the McCamey's -- Jerry, Angie, and Kyle. Angie has been diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer and the Doctors removed it however nothing is ever guaranteed. We ask for you to interceed on their behalf with our father for his healing, and his comfort for each of them as they walk through this valley together. Here is their blog if you wish to know more and pray more specifically. http://mccamey.blogspot.com/

Well take care and we will report more from Poland....

God can do all things. MARK 10:27

Poland Here We Come.....

2008-01-22T07:50:00.000-07:00

Well we are finally booked and heading to Poland from February 12th - February 24th. We will be getting a chance to visit this city for a few days and meeting our GEM host while there to meet the ministry partners in the area. We understand this is probably close to the worst time to visit Poland (since it is smack dab in the middle of Winter ans the gauge wont get above 25 F. Oh well, it will give us a great opportunity to really experience the cliamte at its worst and understand what could be ahead for us.

After staying a few days in Poznan, our relative from Warsaw will be picking us up and taking us to Plock and back to Warsaw where they have graciously agreed to put us up for 2 nights before we head down to Lublin and Krakow with our GEM host. It should be a great time finally getting to meet my relatives and get to know them better and seeing some of their city as only a local can show it to you.

Finally we will return to Poznan about 2 days prior to our departure and spend those last two days with our host before we return home. We are continuing to pray for a unified direction and a clear answer from God for our future home for ministry.

I believe now more than ever that his plan for us is the business community. Success is the measure of a man with an earthly view and one that follows the "Conventional" Manhood direction which focuses on what a man does, how we compete with other men, personal rewards, and self success ---

but if we change our perspective and follow what Jesus modeled (an "Authentic Manhood") then we can focus on what a man really IS, community with others, eternal rewards, focus on others, and finally significance. I thank Robert Lewis for bringing this to light for me and pray that we can be used by God to show this to the community the Lord calls us to.

Blessings,

Gabe & Cheryl

IT'S A BOY!!!!

2007-12-18T21:36:00.000-07:00

My ultrasound was scheduled for Monday, December 17th. The girls, Gabe,myself as well as Grandad, Nana, and my best friend Sara went in for the news. I was a bit nervous. I really wanted Gabe to have a son. The tech new right away that the Lord was going to answer our prayer and give us a son! He exposed himself pretty obviously. Gabe asked her several times to make sure not able to believe his ears! The smile never left his face the entire day. He is so excited, it is fun to watch him. It's like a kid at Christmas! The girls were jumping up and down screaming. It will definitely be different around the house. I am so used to pink, and frilly. I will now have to figure out how to cope with boy things and those diaper changes will be different as well. We have scheduled our trip to Poland for Febuary. We hope to get unilateral direction after we complete our last trip. It will be so cold!!! We are so grateful for the holidays approaching. We love hearing from everyone in their holiday cards, and spending time with family. It is still so amazing that the Lord of our universe would humble Himself in becoming a man to save us from our sin! I can't wait to be with Him some day!!!!

Jordan or Bust !!!!!

2007-11-15T16:27:00.000-07:00

Our final international trip of this year and it was a wonderful time. We had 8 days full of scenery and interaction with the team over there and were just amazed at what Allah (God) is doing in the middle east.

There is way to much to go over in a blog entry and too many pictures, not to mention the sensitive nature of the place and things going on so suffice it to say we are seeking confirmation that this is the place where our family can thrive, grow closer to the king, and invest ourselves for a season.

I can however share some highlights:

Our visit to the Dead Sea was so very fun...never knew that you can stand straight up in the water and still not sink more than a few inches....and the mud was fun to play with as well as you can see from the 8 of us who covered ourselves with it. It is what your supposed to do since it supposedly contains all of the minerals know to mankind and it is supposed to help clear up bruise and cuts etc.

Wadi Rum & Petra were just AWESOME....we had the honor from out Lord to spend the night in a Bedouin tent in the middle of the Arabian desert...which was just amazing and picturesque...I climbed a huge sand dune and took some pictures with my new friends from Amman as you can see here.

Finally I'll say Petra (1 of the New 7 Wonders of the World) was also amazing -- more climbing and more amazing sights...Cheryl rode a camel and when i get that off of the camcorder I will put it up here for everyone to see. It was a long day but so amazing....Hamdilila (Praise the Lord).

Well -- more to come as we head to Vegas for Thanksgiving and then Christmas as well.....Love to all of you and hope to hear from you soon.

The Phillips Five ( 6 in 2008)

Here are some pics of our trip......

Number 4 on the way

2007-10-17T16:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, Its true -- Cheryl is expecting our 4th child....She is currently 8 weeks and 4 days and not feeling so hot....going to keep her rested and hydrated and let God do the rest. We are happy and as you can see from the picture and video some of our family was surprised as well..

Camping with the Sivley's and Runyon's

2007-10-15T15:32:00.000-07:00

Well - fresh off our trip to Cebu, Philippines we packed up the van, the kids, and pongo and headed up for a cool weekend around the Sedona area. We hiked, played, talked, and just had a plain good time away from the city life of Phoenix and its traffic and biz-e-ness (like the spelling?)

Along for the ride were our alter ego's (The Sivleys) whom we are attached to the hip with..and we would have it no other way...and our new friends the Runyon's (Natalie's 2nd Grade teacher and her family.) We had such a great time...The rope swing and the hike were the highlights n everyones list and the low points were Brooklyn getting burned on the mantle and the constant sawing of firewood because we were too cheap to buy any after the 1st night.

Here are some photos and a video of our great time....

Cheryl and I in Cebu, Philippines

2007-10-15T13:34:00.000-07:00

Here we are - October 15th. 2007. 3/4 of the year gone and wow -- what a year it has been thus far. After the month of November I think Cheryl and I will have racked up more than over 25,000 air lines each this year. Between our flights here in the U.S. (Florida Twice) and internationally (Africa, Canada, Mexico City, Philippines, and the Middle East) it has been a whirlwind travel year for us.

We have just returned from our first "discovery trip" to the Philippines (Cebu, more specifically)...where we spent 8 very full days serving, speaking, and engaging in the lives of all we came into contact with while there.

We arrived on a Tuesday mid day and had lunch with Bo, Cynthia, and Brent (WV Missionaries) after they picked us up at the airport. We had been in transit for over 24 hours from Phx to LA to Hong Kong to Cebu and were a bit punchy. After we got settled at the Ralstons home with our things and showered up - Brent and i were off to the Manduae City Council meeting where I gave a 45 minute speech on Integrity and Influence. The council was pleased with the engagement and has asked for more Character training in the future to expand to all city employees...so please pray that can take place.

A good nights sleep and we were off to our Wednesday agenda where Cheryl went to the school where Brent & Christine have enrolled their daughter Hannah in. Christin and Cynthia teach a 30 minute lunch time bible lesson and story and Cheryl was able to assist them in the set up, prep, and deliver of that message for a few hours. While Cheryl was at the school Brent and I ventured into a Barangay (village) to disciple some new believers in a one on one bible study. After that I was part of his staff meeting at the local church and then it was off to the hospital were a local Pastor's daughter (Chloe) was under observation for possible Dengi fever (very deadly if not treated quickly). We prayed with the family and also spoke about the ministry they run in a different part of Cebu. From there we ventured to Greenhill's Christian Fellowship where we spoke with an assistant pastor about the possibility of partnering to reach the "A" class in Cebu for Christ.

We extended our Testimonies at a prayer meeting this same evening and enjoyed fellowship with the congregation at WOL (Word of Life) Church in Cebu with Bo.

Day 3 took me to a small and very rudimentary tennis court facility with pastor Wilford @ 6am to play with some of the locals in the area (most of which are business men and owners from around the city). We had the opportunity of meeting several men during our matches and enjoyed the fellowship with them before breakfast. A great avenue to start and build relationships should we return under God's will to this area for ministry. After breakfast and a shower (you can imagine the amount of liquid I expended in 90+ humidity and temperature on the court) and we were off to "house hunting" to get a feel for expenses and where we might be living if God wants us to minister here. we saw several communities but a common theme of "would this be acceptable accomodations to the people we are trying to reach?" came into play almost all morning. After speaking with Bo, he agreed we should be looking into housing in a few select communities where the majority of the group we are trying to reach resides. So, we headed back out to some of those communities for a look and idea of monthly cost to the ministry. We also discussed possible "ins" for the ministry to get businessmen out of the "work" environment and actually get them to enjoy some time out with and sometimes without their family.

Our 4th day took us to more housing areas as well as a Women's bible study and a visit for me to the "barracks" or what they refer to as the really hard area of the city. I met with 6 young men who had given their lives to Christ after being the leaders and members of Gangs that number in the thousands. One man had been shot 6 times, bled out, and was placed for dead in a morgue for over 2 hours until his grandfather told the authorities to just check him again. They found a pulse and 19 bags of blood later he recovered. He was led to Christ alone by an English Bible he found and started reading (even though he does not speak english and found verses that led him to the saving knowledge). They now lead a daily devotional and meeting in the same building and area where numerous gangs met and where over 30+ people have been killed. God works in amazing ways......Later that evening we had a really neat Catered dinner and time of sharing of our testimonies and the message at Jimmy Chua's home (who works for PLDT - Philippine Lond Distance Telephone) where he opened up the evening to his employees for a time of fellowship and food. We really made some good contact and one gentelman in particular asked if we could meet again to discuss some of the things I said in my testimony. His name is Oamar and please pray he makes a decision for Christ soon as he is so close. We never got to meet again due to some texting problems and communication but pray I can reconnect over email.

Day 5 led us to an area of the city where the extremely impoverished people live and where a fire had ripped through there community that has been reportedly started by the mayor to reclaim land for construction. These folks were so kind and led us into there home for a few minutes to see how a small bible study was progressing and what he needs of the families were. Our hearts were just torn open as most of these folks were living just inches above stagnate, bacteria, and infection ridden waters were convening under them. They have no plumbing, no real means of any kind, but yet still find Joy and smiling a major part of their attitude daily. We have a lot to learn about a Joy filled spirit....Also this afternoon I was able to share a message with the Youth at WOL based on Matthew 5 where Jesus gives the Sermon on the Mount. It was the first message where I felt all cylinders clicking and really enjoyed the way God had allowed me to share his word. I think the difference here was my letting God do the speaking and trying less to speak for him......

Day 6 was a wonderful day filled with worship at WOL in Cebu with Bo and Cynthia. Again we shared our testimonies and why were in Cebu with the congregation. We also had lunch with pastor Arnold Yee and his wife and shared experiences and dreams in the ministry. After lunch we ventured back to the church for a young professionals bible study that was been led by an IJM representative who was engaged in investigative activities pertaining to child sex rings in the Philippines. We had a great study and also wonderful fellowship with all the young adults and Pastor Julius's family.

Day 7 - our last day was a bit of a break from all the activities....Bo, Cynthia, Brent, Christine and Hannah all accompanied us to a fish sanctuary off of Mactan island for a little rest and relaxation. We were able to snorkel a bit around some very pretty reefs and enjoyed some local lunch on the boat. Cheryl unfortunately got stung by a jellyfish but luckily it was not too serious and the pain was gone after a about 2 hours. The day was Sunny and bright and we really were able to enjoy some time out, but more importantly provide an avenue for the rest of our group some much needed time of rest.

We arrived back at home on Tuesday Night @ about 8:30pm and in 3 weeks we will be on our way to the Middle East for our second "Discovery Trip" coming up on Nov 2nd. Please pray for us to gain clear direction from the Lord as to where we are to serve and be an extension of HIS ministry. We are so thankful for our church and its members and all our friends and family for praying and supporting us in our efforts to be discerning and to truly be diligent in finding exactly where we fit and can be most effective for Christ.

Summer Heat / Uganda

2007-07-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

Well - we broke records this summer for # of days above 109 degrees -- 43...and of those 32 were above 110 -- ugh. It was a long a hot summer. Cheryl did get out of the heat for a bit -- but swapped it for a different type of heat (Humidity Laden) in Uganda, Africa.

Cheryl led a team of 6 from our church to an Aids-Orphanage in Mbale Uganda for 13 days. They were delayed in getting to and from Africa with missed connections, train rides, housing issues, and flight cancellations - however through it all God did dome wonderful things in Uganda and she and her team got to be a part of it.

They basically spent 10 days ministering to the kids in the orphanage, the families in and around the village of Kaminkoli, did Awana programs, fed the hungry, and had a crusade together with many villagers in the area. They saw several people accept Christ as their Lord and were moved in their own lives through the experience.

After coming home and resting for multiple days (since it took them over 70+ hours to finally get home...they praised God for the opportunity to be a part of what he was doing there in Africa.

DISNEY @ The CARIBBEAN -- How can you top that !!!!!

2007-03-25T06:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter -- Almost!

Well, my commitment statement for updating this blog is getting seriously lax. I cannot find the time to enter this on a regular basis. Oh well, I'll post anyway and get the lastest and greatest up on the web so at least I can stay current on life events etc..

Spent most of February preparing for our 2 week Florida / Disney Cruise vacation plans. Cheryl was constantly picking up things here and there that we needed as well as packing (which never seemed to end), and also tidying up and making sure the beat was never missed.

Even though it felt like we would never get to this vacation (18 months in the planning) -- The day finally arrived....March 3rd. With the help of Sara Sourant we made it to the airport in time and were ready for our 1st travel day. Needless to say the girls were ecstatic to get going and could not wait to "get there". Florida was great -- too much to go over in a page on the blog but I will include all pictures -- Pirate Night was a highlight and of course the beach in Cayman !!!

Love all of you and hope to see you all soon. More updates to come -- Cheerleading and cheryl's trip to Uganda in June !!!!

God Bless.

Gabe, Cheryl & The Girls

OK, the slacking is over.....

2007-01-04T13:29:00.000-07:00

Alright -- I understand that I made a commitment to post every 2 weeks or so and the last post was October 16th. I realize this is blatant neglect and a complete lack of commitment on my part. Ok, well now that I have said it, I am blogging once again thanks to a little reminder from my good friend Wendy @ Food for the Hungry. Thanks Wendy.

Well, lots has taken place since the end of October, too much to go into here on this blog entry, but well that's just the way it is going to be.

Our Christmas holiday was quite enjoyable even though it was packed with people, sickness, and non stop entertaining. It all started when Pops (my father)came in for the weekend prior to Christmas for a visit after he spent a week back east with all the other Phillips's (can I get away with that spelling - or should it be Phillipses?) on the east coast. I picked him and Cheryl's sister (Ms. Danny Devoe esq. - from Lonk Island (lol)) up from the Airport. Both came in on the Friday morning about 1 hour apart at the airport. This was great I could get both within about the same time, only downside was I missed seeing my kids at my work office open some gifts from the Santa Clause we do every year for the employees kids. Oh well, I heard it was enjoyable.

Unfortunately from the east with my father came the flu bug. It started with him for the 2 days he was here and then made its way to Payton, then Natalie, and back to Payton again for almost 10 days straight . Needless to say Cheryl got tired of cleaning and disinfecting the house every day it seemed so it would not continue to spread.

All in All Christmas was wonderful as always we sat next to the fire on Christmas Eve and read the girls Christmas stories and then prepared the reindeer food and Santa's cookies. They love that part....So does Santa...
Cheryl's other sisters from Lake Havasu and the west side of Phoenix also joined us for dinner that day and it was very nice for all the sisters to be together again. I on the other hand had to take some extra ibuprofen to combat the extreme amount of screaming, crying and just noice of sisters and there 7 kids (6 girls and 1 boy) all enjoying being together.

New Years was much less eventful -- we really needed the downtime - so we just had one couple over with their kids to our home for the evening. We had some good food, and a lot of good fellowship while just chatting outside in the spa while the kids dominated the TV with all their movies to get them through until Midnight. What Fun!!!!

Now reality is about to set back in again and the schedules will get a little crazier for another 60 days or so until our Disney Reprieve in March. The girls are still completely excited about the trip and Cheryl and I cannot wait for it either. School, AWANA, and Small Group all start back up again this next week and we will be back at full capacity.

God is working in some awesome ways in our lives right now and we will disclose more as time and circumstances get more evident and solid as the months progress. We pray all of you also had a wonderful Christmas and New year and that you find yourself right in that "Sweet Spot" where God wants you in 2007.

Psalm 136: 1-3
"Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever."
"Oh, give thanks to the God of Gods! For His mercy endures forever."
"Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords! For His mercy endures forever."

Sun, Surf, Sand, & Stones?

2006-10-16T21:20:00.000-07:00

Well our fall trip to California was once again a wonderful trip. We started out on Sunday the 8th to the Palm Desert area where we got to spend about 3 hours with Cheryl's Uncle Jimmy and Aunt Nelda. They are such wonderful people and we are really blessed to have been able to spend some time with them. The girls were enamored with both of them and loved being "measured" by Uncle Jimmy on the wall where he measures all the little kids in the family.

From there we were on to the Beach!Found the resort after an hour delay on I-10 in inner Riverside county. Traffic was horrible on a Sunday evening and we could not figure why. We also could not understand the toll roads, but oh well they were lighter with traffic for sure. Monday and Tuesday were spent shopping at local malls for clothing, earrings and other miscellaneous items we always look for when out or in need of something. We also took the girls to see Open Season. Pretty funny movie but it seems as though most of these animated movies these days blend a lot of adult humor into them - some which is questionable at best.

Wednesday was probably our most exciting day - We met with Jennifer and Ron at the gates of Disneyland to have a day of Disney. The girls were so very excited. Once through the gates we were of an running...well Natalie and I were at least. We headed off to do some of the bigger rides and Hit Indiana Jones first. It was nice to see Natalie blow away the height requirement after a disappointing last minute denial last year when she just touched the height bar and the manager decided not to let her ride. She took it all in stride, her first Big ride and she did great. She said she didn't like it much at first, but afterwards told me she did like it and would do it again next year and maybe even space mountain. All the while Cheryl, Payton & Alexxis were enjoying Dumbo, Mr. Toads wild ride and other Fantasy Land rides. Once were rallied back with Cheryl and the other girls it was onto the princess waiting line....1 hour later we saw princesses finally and took pictures with them. This is always the girls highlight even if it takes 6 hours in line. They love those princesses. After the princesses we again split up at California Adventure to do some individual rides. Natalie and I headed to Soarin over California (her favorite ride) and the Roaring Rapids. She just could not stop grinning. The others went to the Bugs life area and also caught the Aladdin show. Finally we all decided to meet back at Rainforest cafe for some Dinner with Ron and then back to Disneyland for the remainder of the day to hit Pirates and a few other rides. Best laid plans right? well, during dinner I had horrible left stomach pains and could not sit still.

It was decided I could not manage the park for another 2 hours as the pain got worse by the minute. By 8:00pm Cheryl tried to pick up some medicine at a local Albertsons and once she was back in the car I had told her it was Urgent Care time. So off to the ER we went. Thank the good Lord for the GPS system my grandfather allowed us to borrow for the trip -- it led us to the nearest hospital only 1.8 miles away. By this time I could not sit still and I was wondering if I had an appendix issue. well 3 hours, 3 blood tests, 1 CT scan and an IV later I had a kidney Stone and it had passed. Praise God for only 3 hours of pain when it could have been a weeks worth of waiting for it to pass. Cheryl and the girls had no idea for the 3 hours basically and Natalie and Payton were sleeping on a makeshift bed in the lobby for the whole time. We arrived back at the resort at around 12 midnight Wed.

Thursday proved to be less exciting but not less fun. The day was sand and sun filled as we took off to Aliso beach for the day. What a cool beach, parking right at the beach and the water was fairly warm for this time of year. Great warm sun and cool sand graced us all day and we all had a great time playing in it. Thursday night was also a great time. we got the pleasure of spending time with Wendy and her husband Tim @ their home in Orange. It was quite the nice time. The girls really enjoyed their company and so did Cheryl and I. The girds got to feed a horse they are boarding at their home a some carrots and also do a little hike to see other horses in the area. Wendy & Tim were gracious enough to have us over for a meal and share their lives with us as well. For that we are grateful to God for getting an opportunity to break bread with a bother and sister in Christ.

Friday again were were on the road down to the San Diego area to take the girls to the SD Wild Animal park. We had never before taken this trip and so we ventured down and spent the day frolicking with the Elephants, Giraffes, Lions, Rhino's and the like. We were fortunate enough to have seen 2 baby White Rhinos who had recently been born and also a very neat elephant show. The star was Cookie a young elephant who was showing off tricks her trainer did not even know she could do. After another long day we headed back to CB and the resort. I must mention that all week long the girls enjoyed a super size tub in our condo and had numerous bubble baths which was almost as fun as Disneyland for them....ahhh to be content for the simple things...we could take lessons from 3,6,&9 yr olds.

Saturday was a rest day knowing we had but 1 day left on vacation. Most of the day was spent relaxing and playing games at the resort. We did hit the pool for a bit although it was considerably less sunny and warm so we did not spend a ton of time in it. Finally as a goodbye to California and our family vacation time, we headed off to get a pizza and watch the sunset back at Aliso Beach. What a great night to do it as we were blessed with a perfect spot on the little outcropping at the beach where a picnic table was waiting just for us to sit and eat as the sun fell.

Quite an ending for a fun but interesting week. we praise God for our safe travels, our wonderful company and all the things that made this vacation time memorable.

Well, reality as they say hits hard....Back to work and another full week of items to do and things to accomplish. I am reminded by what Paul states in Act 14:22 "...We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God" We are so blessed here in America that we whine and complain about anything that interferes with our comfort zone or our routine. As Beth Moore states "recognizing the inevitable nature of hardships can motivate us to redirect our energies"...and focus on HIM and the glory that awaits in Jesus.

The Phillips Family

Sorrow, happiness, & a sense of direction?

2006-09-20T15:40:00.000-07:00

Well its been 15 days since our last update, quite a while in blogger time but none the less it is finally time to write a bit.

Foster/Adopt Progress and Direction?
Well Zackery's case plan was changed, but not to what everyone expected. It was changed to long-term foster care to allow the grandmother time to finish the home study, fingerprinting and other DES requirements to get certified. There is still a remote chance we could get him, but we understand our role could have been limited by God just to get us to this point in the grand plan. We continue to pray for his well being and for him to be placed in a home where the word is taught and believers are raising with the gospel, but we are not in control and we have to let go a bit and let God. We are also praying for Bonnie and Cope as there are the only "Mom" and "Dad" he knows. We pray he will whether the storm well and that his adjustment will be smooth and full of encouragement, and love from whatever family he may be a part of.

We are still praying for direction in our role as either foster parents and or adoptive parents. I know both are in need and I pray we make the right decision with God leading us down this path. It is hard for me to wrap my head around foster care -- it has been since the very beginning. Cheryl is a little less worried and sees it as a good start to see if it fits. I am still opposed to it but am asking the Lord to reveal his plan to me so I can drink whatever cup he has for me tor drink. His way is better than mine and his plan always benefits us more than what we could have even begun to imagine.

Sorrow:
My heart aches for a lady from our church who lost her husband today when during a routine Dr. visit he went into cardiac arrest and went home to be with the Lord. I met him only a few times, but he was always a kind man and always had encouraging words for me. He liked my singing and I feel a little guilty now that he asked me to sign a particular song for him in a church service. but regrettably I have not bought the track to even learn it yet. He wanted to get to know me more was the last phrase he said to me and I am sad we did not get the opportunity to know each other better, but I know he is in a better place and the singing there is so much better than mine for his ears. God bless you Mr. Roberts -- you have graduated and are now with our savior! What a glorious thing to be praised even in the midst of sorrow.

Happiness:
Well only a few short weeks left and we will be off to California for a week or rest and relaxation. Can't wait. Hopefully we will have the pleasure and opportunity to meet with Wendy from FH who lives in the O.C. and get to know her better. I have been doing the advocacy training but have lost contact a bit with her as she was in town for a large FH benefit and am sure she is just backed up a bit from the time out of the office. I feel the Lord moving now in out church and surrounding the FH engagement for Nyamirama East Village in Rwanda. Our Senior Pastor has asked for a child sponsorship packet and i am addressing each of the staff and board personally to pray about sponsoring a child. From there we can rally the church around the village and bathe them in prayer and hopefully next summer a trip to meet them and help in upcoming projects and development physically and spiritually.
Praise him for everything as he is always good to us. Pray for our small group as it increases almost weekly now. I think this week alone we are up to 14 people when just 1 year ago we were at 4 core people. Struggles come along with such quick growth but we welcome it and know God is using it for his cause.

Well, hopefully another 15 days will not have to pass before I update again, but you never know....I will try harder. Love to all our relatives and friends and may God richly Bless you and the ministries you serve in.

The Phillips Family.

Fun with Pop Pop

2006-09-05T08:58:00.000-07:00

Labor Day Weekend was a fun and festive time as my father flew in from Las Vegas to spend the weekend with us and the kids. They sure love it when he comes in to spend time. You can see by the pictures they laugh and goof a lot and even a little "Hop on Pop" as Dr. Suess would say.

He came in late friday evening and stayed until monday evening. We spent some time playing basketball with the kids, taking the dogs to the dog park, eating out, nursery duty at church, and of course the pool. The girls showed Pop Pop how to play "noodle baseball" - our new family pool game, and horsed around the pool a lot this weekend since the weather was very nice.

Time flies when you having fun and fun is definitely what we had (can you tell from the picture here).

Hopefully Pop Pop will visit again in December when he comes down to visit the Bondurant Kart Racing school to solidify his kart racing skills and race around the track for a few days. That will be a good time and the kids will enjoy the time as always. We appreciate Pop Pop and his visits from year to year as it is so difficult for us to go and bring an clan of 5 to invade someones house or hotel for a few days.

Back to work now and on with normal life again. Our small group is once again underway and we are studying the life of the Apostle Paul. I am also trying to study and finish my work for the FH advocacy training. Pray I will have protected time and also be able to get all my other duties accomplished. We are also 1/2 way through our foster/adopt certification as well, only 5 classes left to go. We know God has a plan for us in this and even though it seems Zackery will not be with us more than likely we know God's will is better for all. It will be hard to detach, but Gods grace is sufficient for us and our issues. Love to you all and more next week after we all catch up from a long weekend.

Blessings,

The Phillips.

Exciting Times !

2006-08-27T19:13:00.000-07:00

What a week! Clearly the end of summer has hit us and the impending schedule of fall is on the verge of beginning. The girls already came home with their first report cards and they are doing so well. We are so proud of how quickly they have adapted to their new classes and are enjoying their new friends. Payton is still struggling in her very own "empty nest" syndrome. She is coming along better these last few days (especially since her Nana is back) and we hope soon she will get right in her own groove.

Zackery got to stay with us again for some good quality time on Friday and Saturday. He is so funny and getting more and more comfortable over here...Although we know we are like a "treat" now since he gets the benefit of being spoiled over here and then gets to go home with Bonnie and Chip, which he loves going anywhere, so it is a perfect fit for him. We are continuing to pray for this little mans future family (even if it is not us) and that he will be raised in fear and admonition of the Lord. The Copes have been so wonderful to us, giving us tips, and of course helping in our classes with Christian Family Care Agency. What a blessing they are in their ministry and we pray that God would richly bless them in every way.

Well, onto MBC -- Our new Pastor of Multiplication has arrived and he is truly a blessing to have. I pray Cheryl and I get to know him much better over the following months and that he will be a blessing to our church and missions activity. Speaking of Missions activity I have put up all our the posters and child sponsorship packets for our interaction with FHI. I pray all those packets are taken and we have to call and ask for more so that every on of the 150 children enrolled in the program in Nyamirama are sponsored. More to come on these exciting partnerships as things continue to be led by God.

Pops comes in this weekend and I nor the kids can wait. We don't get to see him but maybe twice a year, but I am thankful for the time we get to spend. The girls are always excited to see Pop Pop and look forward to bugging and annoying him 24/7 over the Labor Day Weekend.

Well, another week gone and another week closer to glory. Please continue to pray for family and friends who do not know the Lord. Pray for all the Missionaries in the field working to add to the Kindgom and those here who are also working on the same goal. Encourage each other as that day approaches and as 1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."

Day 10 Final Thoughts - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 11th ,2006)

2006-08-18T23:24:00.000-07:00

Day 10 (Leaving Central Java Indonesia for Home - Arizona) -

This is my last entry as today I leave for home. Again I am saddened by the fact that my time here has come to an end. As I reflect back over the past 9 days I cannot help but feel conflicted. On one hand I am so very grateful that the Lord called me here to serve and witness the unfolding of his will for "A"and the people of his village, but also the pure majesty of his will for us. We tend to take for granted everything we have, and also the time we are here on this earth. Stopping to realize even though it seems long to us it is but a vapor in the overall plan.

I am torn becasue I wish I could bring my family here to experience all God has revelaed to me and allowed me to particiapte in while continuing to help these people rebuild. I know I have to leave and fulfill my commitments to my family, but I leave a piece of my heart here in indonesia when I step on that plane this morning.

I pray my new brother in Christ grows and matures in faith and that more of his village is open to and responds to the Lords calling in their lives. I also pray for my dear servant friends who serve faithfully here in country reaching out to these wonderful Muslim people. Yes, I used Wonderful and Muslim together....because thats what they are...thats what we all are "Precious to God". He wants so badly for us to know him personally and to have a relationship with each one of us that he paid the ultimate price. We need to praise him and worship him for his is worthy.

If you are from Mesa Baptist or my family and reading this I Thank You from the bottom of my heart for your prayers and support while I was here. I also want to challenge you to step out of that comfort zone, say to God "I will go Lord" not to appease someone else, not to appease yourself, but if your being called you know that obedience is the only solution...you must go.

Jesus said in Matthew (Chapter 9 verse 37-38): “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” - won't you please prayerfully consider this scripture to be revelaed in your life.

**I dedicate these journals and writings to my brothers who were also called to go with me but were suddenly cut short in the process. Brian, Drew -- Your sacrifice was large and your rewards will be great. I pray God puts us together soon to share in his majesty on the Field** -Your Brother in Christ. - Gabe

Day 9 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 10th ,2006)

2006-08-18T23:01:00.000-07:00

Day 9 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Central Java Indonesia) -

Today as previosuly mentioned is my last day in the field herein Indonesia. Tomorrow I leave this tropical land and its people and their families to return to my own who eagerly await my return. I am excited for the day today as we get to present the textbooks and Uniforms to the children and their families at the school today. God has been so gracious with his provision of funds for this and with his perfect will of getting it all in the time needed. The Children start school one week from today, but they are all coming to school today to receive their books and uniforms. They are extatic, the staff is extatic, and we are extatic.

We arrive at the Elementary School around 10:30am and are greeted with a multitude of people. The children, their friends, and most have brought their mothers from the village to see them get their items. The staff greet us with the warmest sincerity and they ask us to sit and eat a bit before we pass out the items. The conversation is jovial as the mood of th morning is jubilant. Kids are running around playing, singing, and the parents from the village are looking over them as they play...who would have thought these people had been through so much and yet were still so happy to be getting back to school. We have a lot to learn from this culture.

Finally the moment had arrived to pass out the textbooks and uniforms. Smiles were endless and a all of a sudden a group of kids and parents encircles "Pak" and I to shake our hands and tahank us personally for our work and provision for them. Tears flled my eyes as I shook each little childs hand and parents as they streamed through a line next to each of us. For the first time in my life I realized what it felt like to God when he blesses us: Unconditional love without borders, colors, politics, or agendas, just Jesus with his love and mercy.

Day 8 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 9th ,2006)

2006-08-18T22:32:00.000-07:00

Day 8 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Central Java Indonesia) -

"Pak" told me when we got up this morning that he would never let a team come in and not get to see some culture and learn a little history of the peopel were are reaching out to, so "today" he said is an "R&R" day. Perfect since today is Sunday and both of us could use a little rest..but in my heart I still long to be with those in the villages that we have been frequenlty involved with this week. After a 7am Sunrise service at the WV building we headed off for a "Culture Filled" day.

Our 1st stop today was Borobrodur, the oldest and largest buddhist temple in the world. it was constructed between 450-and 700 A.D. Built by the monks over multiple generations, this stands as the holiest place to Buddhist monks across the globe. As yu can see from the pictures it is a tiered facility showcasing stone carved stories and 7 different levels to the complex, where the pinnacle is of course "Nirvana" the 7th level in the Buddhist religion. The local custom is to reach into the bell shaped stone monuments and try to touch Buddha's belly..If you do legend says you will be blessed with good luck. "Pak" and I could not bring oursleves to tocu hanyones belly let alone Buddhas, so we moved on.

"Pak" then took me back tothe city proper where the sultans palace is located. Even today as has been practiced for hundreds of years a "Sultan" rules the province. The Sultanate has been in place as mentioned for hundreds of years, but recently has become more of a historical and cultural display than an actual ruling body. "Pak" wanted to take me to the palace to take a tour, but unfortunately by the time we got there is was closed. On our way our however a local man asked us f we wanted to still see some areas of the palace that were not officially closed such as the "Water Castle", a section within the palace walls that was constructed with pools, and living quarters for the 1st few generations of Sultans for their wives, concubines, and servants. The waters of the pools are said to house evil spirits and people are heavily encouraged not to touch the water in any fashion. "Pak" and I did not feel any evil, however that does not mean it does not exist and so we continued on with this as a 1 time visit. As you can see the carvings are a bit unnerving and represent a very evil setting around this place. On our way out we saw several local artist shops where some of the artists were making Batik (local craftsmanship and dress) outside for us to view. It is an interesting process and one that very few are highly skilled at.

We wanted to finish our day the same way we started it, which was to worship our Lord and Savior so forsaking dinner we headed to the small church plant 'Pak" started in a rough area of the city for the evening service. We gathered with the membership (about 10) and had a wonderful time of worship and sharing (none of which I could understand since it is all in Indonesian). "A'" was there and after service "Pak", his wife and I led him through a short study of John to continue discipiling him in his faith and answering any questions he wanted to ask.

As I write this journal tonight I feel saddened as I have but 1 day left in this wonderful place with these wonderful people. I thank God for his faithfulness and his provision for all the good work and things we were able to accomplish only through his divine provision, but I can't help but shed a tear in knowing my time is now coming to an end.

Day 7 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 8th ,2006)

2006-08-18T21:41:00.000-07:00

Day 7 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Central Java Indonesia) -

Back on track and back on an early schedule. We are headed off to a village in the hills south of Bantul and closer to the Indian Ocean area (south coast of Central Java). The name of the village is Kali-Dada. We are scouting out the village for needs and to speak with the village Duku (Senior Elder) to talk about possible husbandry opportunities for his village to bring in supplemental income for those that cannot make enough of a living for their families since they live so far out of the city. We are greeted as we are everywhere we go, pleasant smiles and warm greetings from all we come in contact with.

After speaking and having tea with the leader "Pak" tells me there is a cave up in the village and that he wants to go explore for a bit, there is a guide from the village that can take us up there and it would be good to honor it with a visit since the village is proud of it. Well ,who am I to turn down spelunking ??? So, off we went with the guide up 500 or so feet of cliffside until we reached the cave entrance. We had no flashlights with the exception of the one little pen light I had from Cabela's that I brought with me for a "just in case" reason. well, here it was the "just in case" time to use it.

Not until about 1/4 of a mile back into the cave did 'Pak" and I realize it probably wasn't the smartest decision we had every made...lets see why -- well 1) This place just had a devastating earthquake 2) another Aftershock hit us this am while we were driving down to this village and 3) Is a cave the safest place to be in weaist high water surrounded by mega tons of rock?. Well despite those thoughts and the feeling of walls closing in around us we forged ahead knowing God was in control. We reached an area where we could have continued to go all the way through to the other side of the mountain, but decided to turn around and head back instead. God's grace was sufficient for us and we were not about to push the envelope anymore!

After leaving the cave and heading back down the mountain "Pak" decided we should cover a few more remote villages on our afternoon work and see what supplies / aid we in apparent need. Several villages were no different than before, most needing clean water, tarps and blankets/mats. "Pak" took quantities down and we returned in the late evening again tired but fulfilled with God's provision for the day.

Day 6 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 7th ,2006)

2006-08-18T20:33:00.000-07:00

Day 6 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Central Java Indonesia) -

5 straight days of going non stop has taken its toll already on us, we have overslept and are running late today. Our mission is two-fold today: 1) to find, and negotiate a good price for textbooks needed for all 180 students are the school in "A"'s village that we visited 2 days ago. and 2) Find a place that has all the uniforms for the first graders. We were told the other students has their's already but since the first graders are new coming in they have no uniforms and their parents most likely do not have the funds to buy them. It is a Friday and we are praying we are lucky enough to find a places that have both of our needs in stock and can deliver them on Monday before I leave Tuesday Morning.

"Pak"'s wife eyeballs a shop for the Uniforms right away as we are driving in an area of the city we are told to go to and look around. So, we drop her off to go and see what they have and what price they will charge. She is Indonesian so it is better if she negotiates to get a locals price vs. the price they will raise it to due to knowing westerners have more money than typical Indonesians. "Pak" and I wait for about 45 minutes when finally he gets a text message from her saying she has reached an agreement and I can come pay now to finsih the transaction. She was able to get all of teh 1st graders unfiorms for under what we expected and they are bagging them up for us as we are walking up to the shop./ God Is AWESOME !!! What a praise to have this item cared for so very quickly.

Since most of the morning was used up procuring the uniforms we decide to pray over lunch and ask for provision of the uniforms for that afternoon. Once we finished lunch we headed over to the textbook printer and no sooner than about 15 minutes after we walk through the door we have found the proper textbooks for that particular school and the proprietor is so generous in the discount he gives us that we are able to provide the entire school, every grade, and every one of the 180 students ALL of the textbooks they need for the entire year. If your a skeptic of Jesus and your reading these blog entries are you not getting a clear picture of God's divine intervention and his evident will in this trip and the effort to reach these people with his message...I pray you are because we are jumping and singing his praises this afternoon. This shop owner even has all of these in stock and we deliver them for free on Monday as requested.

What an Awesome Day, and what a day to marvel at God's will being displayed for all of us to see so clearly.

Day 5 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 6th ,2006)

2006-08-18T20:13:00.000-07:00

Day 5 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Klaten Indonesia) -

My day today started much like the previous days, but this time I was headed off to Klaten - another area devastated by the earthquake and north east of the Yogyakarta proper area. today is different since "Pak" is not with me. He and his wife are taking care of some needed administration and I am under the watchful eye of the FHI staff. Food for The hungry Indonesia has been working in country since the Tsunami hit Banda Aceh in late 2004, however most of the folks I am riding with today are either new to the area or just recently arrived to assist the victims here in Central Java. Dr. "D" is originally from ethopia and just an amazing man of God. he is a humble man of great education and experience in his all but 38 years. He is moving his family to Melahbo (Banda Aceh area) in the next month or two and has not really seen them in over 4 months.

As we talk time flies by and we arrive at a village in desperate need of water purification and filtration pumps to clean out the solied water in some of the older wells where the soli levels rose dramatically during the earthquake. One of OUR (like I am actually part of the FHI team right?) goals was to inspect about 6 wells in the village and also figure out what kind of cleaning agents/ chemicals might aid in the most timely cleaning of the water. This village is also where FHI is working with local materials to build some temporary houses for about 50-60 residents of the village. These temporary houses as you can see from the photos are very basic and not earthquake proof like the ones "SP" are building, but there are also about only 1/10th the cost and these people need shelters with the approaching "wet" months starting in August. Each of these houses can house up to 6 people and can be built for about $300 U.S. Dollars each. Some of the houses are almost done and you can see the joy that the owners of these homes have as they anticipate them being completed. All of the receipients have either been widowed by the quake or are in the late stages of their lives with limited mobility or are crippled in some manner. We partake in a lunch provided by a small planted church in this village and speak with the pastor of the local believers. He tells us that 1 month prior to the quake he was told by God to preach the same message 4 weeks in a row (The sermon was on service and loving your neighbors as yourself). The congregation could not understand why he preached the same message over and over and some even wondered if he had lost his mind. The day after his last sermon (May 25th) the quake hit the very next morning.

As I approach the end of this day writing my journal I am reminded how blessed we are in the U.S. and how the Lord has really blessed or nation. I pray more people will come and assist this area over the next few months and pray that lives will be changd for Jesus through all the work that is going on from the Christian NGO's and teams travelling over to help.

Day 4 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 5th ,2006)

2006-08-18T19:18:00.000-07:00

Day 4 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Bantul Indonesia) -

This morning "Pak" and his wife took me out to go check up on a close friend in a different village where her familys house had been damaged from the earthquake. She had been a caregiver for a family member in "Pak"'s family for sometime and they had not seen or heard from her since the quake. Her families house was in shambles but some of the walls were still up and that was a blessing to them. While we were walking around the area we noticed some villagers had begun to find alternative ways to get rid of the rubble instead of constantly stacking it in piles next to the road. They had devised a plan to dig large and deep holes next to their homes to bury the rubble. We stopped by one home and the hole had to have been at least 8 feet long, 4-5 feet wide and at least 40-50 feet deep. Any further and they would have hit water so they stopped and started filling it with the rubble. Others were working on repairing roofs and some were mixing cement for the re-building process.

From there we headed back to "A"'s village to look and inspect the condition of the local elementary school that serves the children of the village. We met with the school leadership and the 5 faculty members underneath her responsible for teaching the kids. The school was actually in great shape. Made out of mostly concrete with rebar, it withstood the earthquake quite well with the exception of large cracks in the walls in different areas. We asked if there were needs that could be met and they indicated to us that the students had lost all of their new school textbooks to the earthquake since most of the students take them home to study. The school runs 1st grade through 6th grade and abotu 30 children per grade. We offered to look at providing some of the need if they could provide the estimated costs and where to get the materials if we could assist.

Lastly as the afternoon sun was heading down we decided to see if we could get to the village of Kali-Adem on Mt. Merapi. The village was in the news for being completely wiped out by one of the pyroclastic flows that came down Mt. Merapi. "Pak" had not had a chance to visit it and figured this was as good of a time as any to go check it out and also see the refugee camp set up for the villagers that had been evacuated a few days earlier when it seems as though Mt. Merapi was going to erupt.

As you can see from the Photos ash and hot gas were still spewing and the trees all around were covered with ash. We made it up to the village that was destroyed and you can see in the 1st picture the ash trail it left behind. Just breathing up that close with all the ash in the air was difficult and not wise to stick around to long as the ash gets into your lungs and coats them which if exposed too long can be harmful and even fatal.

By the time we got back (about 9pm) it was time to crash...we thank God again for another productive day and pray he continues to allow us to serve these people who are hurting and afraid as Jesus served 2000 years ago.

Day 3 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 4th ,2006)

2006-08-18T18:14:00.000-07:00

Day 3 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Bantul Indonesia) -

Well up early again and off to the village where "A" and his family are. I forgot to mention that yesterday we had promised to help an elderly gentleman and his wife clear away a large area of rubble and start helping him reset his foundational walls for where his home used to be. He is well over 60 years and there is a ton of broken bricks and rubble to clear -- it will be a full day today. I have been very thankful to God today for the cloud cover as it is roughly 92-98 degrees everyday and approx 80-90% humidity all day long. You can;t see it here in this photo but I was drenched from head to toe with sweat and I imagine lost a few pounds of water weught today as well.

During intermissions of the clean up effort today we kept being invited back to Pak "J"'s house for tea and local food (wonderful potatoe like food called sincon/ Kasava here in America, coconuts, goat meat, rice, vegetables, and local tropical oranges). Their hospitality overwhelmed us and we gladly accepted as it would have been rude otherwise. Pak "J" and his family put out quite the spread for us and if it were not for the work left to be done I imagine we would have fallen asleep on the bench they had for us to sit on inside their shelter. Great food and conversation we had as we learned more about Pak "J" and how he had grown up in this village and used to sell grass to the owners of the cows at a local factory nearby to make money for the family. He also remembered the Japanese occupation during the younger years of his life. His daughter was wondering if when we came back we could bring more westerners who were un-married so she could marry one to blend the "white" into her family bloodline. This was very comical to all around but I think she was very serious. On the way back to "Pak"'s house we stopped to eat at a local Javanese restuarant and "WOW" what a culinary delight -- Rice, Javanese meatballs, hot peppers and loads of vegetables to boot....truly a wonderful meal of local cuisine all done in a buffet style at a roadside establishment that is very popular. I think the meal cost about $4 U.S. for all three of us to eat and drink. Too much food today..but wonderful getting to know these villagers like we have...the bonds are unmistakable.

Day 2 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 3rd ,2006)

2006-08-18T16:40:00.000-07:00

Day 2 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Bantul Indonesia) -

This morning we woke up early to get a head start on the day. We visited three different villages and the clean up effort is underway by mostly villagers now sine most of the NGO's (Non Governmental Organizations) have left. We delivered more tarps and mats to the Village today as well as received a call from the more radical village asking for more mats. About 10am we found our way to a village where a military man names "T" was healing from a broken ankle that had gotten infected shortly after the earthquake took place. His village was selected by "SP" to have some earthquake proof homes built there so that the villagers could watch and learn how to build them using the local materials available in the area. Also met with another man who had a compound fracture of his right leg from the earthquake. He invited us into his tent to tell his story and thank us for the work and provisions were had supplied. He indicated that his employer was holding his job or him until he could return (which is not normal) after healing.

In the afternoon today we visited the base camp operations for for "SP" and "FHI" to see if we could come along side and assist them in any of their efforts in and around the effected areas. Met Dr. "D" "W", "M" and "D" and got some insight as to where the areas were that they were working in. Their focus has been up and around the area of Klaten conducting well inspections to assess the turbidity of the water and what could be done to clean i,t or if building new wells was more appropriate and effective. They indicated we could come back on Thursday and spend the entire day with them.

This day has flown by -- so much devastation , so much need and, so little governmental help. The people were told that they would receive disbursements of 90,000 rupiah per month for food and supplies and around 30,000,000 rupiah per
household that had a completely destroyed home, but nothing has been given out and their is also no cleanup assistance being sent from the government either. Most of the villagers are stacking their piles of rubble next to the streets in hopes that the government will send trucks through the villages to haul it away -- but 1 month now and no sign of any trucks or money.

Day 1 in the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 2nd, 2006)

2006-08-18T15:52:00.000-07:00

For security and the well being of the Missionary and his family in Indonesia I will only refer to him as "Pak" throughout these entries.

Day 1 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Bantul Indonesia) -

I am shocked by the amount of sheer devastation in this area. Villages are completely gone and seas of tarps and tents are all that can be seen among the rubble of fallen buildings, mosques, and homes. We met with "A" and his family ("J" his father, "H" his uncle) today surveying the damage and asking for the needs of the villagers. We provided several tarps and mats/blankets to some of the residents as well as two large tarps to "H" to use while he was in process of rebuilding the walls of his home that as 90% destroyed. An elderly gentelmen pulled me aside and tried to communicate with me a need but I could not understand -- so he pulled my arm and led my to his home where his wife lay ill and unable to move from physical damage from the earthquake. The missionary told me he was asking for money to bring in a doctor and provide medicine for her, but immediately the missionary was told by on of the locals that his family had seen a doctor that his children could afford to provide this need. It seemed to me strange that this need was so evident and he seems very sincere, but I was educated further on the social politics of these villages and the extreme precaution that must be taken when handing out aid and supplies. Lists must be made and needs must be prioritized with consent of the elders so as to avoid social jealousy within the community. How I wish we could just meet all the needs......I am being stretched and I need God's guidance to make sure my emotions do not take control of the moment and supplant what God is intending.

Most of the afternoon we have spent visiting another village that called Pak V. on his cell phone asking if we could deliver some tarps for their use. The Mosque in their village was severly damaged and they were in need of some tarps to provde shelter for the students of the Pasantran school that the mosque runs. This village is considered much more "radical" and is associated with a very large Muslim organization called Muhammadiyah (I snapped this picture while driving by so it isn't the best quality, but snapping one in the village was not appropriate). We delivered the tarps and mats and found a very sincere gratitude from the people we interacted with despite their obvious knowledge of our Chiristian faith. Dusk is falling now and our day has completed its work, we will venture back to "Pak"'s home to rest and replensih for tomorrow.

Life Uninterrupted

2006-08-12T14:29:00.000-07:00

Well, I will have to re commit to updating every 2 weeks and not every 2 days. It is difficult enough to sit down and relax for 5 minutes, let alone try and reflect, sit down at the computer and type this blog every 2 days.

Cheryl's back went out again a week ago today (well yesterday but who counting). She thinks it was a combination of gym workouts and then Thursday when she was helping the teachers out at school she stood for over 3 -4 hours making copies for the classes. My back would be sore as well. She was down for 2 1/2 days and we both began to wonder if the long term effects of her treatment we paid all that coin for late last year were really effective or not.

Alexxis and Natalie have decided to forego any activities this fall and instead save up for excursions and fun things for teh Disney Cruise/ Florida trip next March (2007). They are really excited and came up with a wonderful way to save funds for it. We were really pleased to see such sacrifice and good forethought on their parts for wanting to put of immediate gratification for something down the road. Gos is relly working in these girls lives and we could not be more proud of them

Payton on the other hand is very excited that she will be starting her 1st tap and dance class with her best friend Brookie on September 13th. For 1 hour a week they will tap, dance and scream their hearts out at a beginner class through parks and recreation in Chandler. What fun they will have and it will be fun to see them put those hours and hours of princess waiving, dressing up, and role playing the disney characters to good use.

Alexxis, Natalie & I have been fighting a winter cold (and nasty chest cough) for about 2 weeks ow and we are praying it all goes away soon. It is horrible for it to be Hot, Humid and sick all at the same time.

Had to procur a new washer this week after our old one bit the bust this week. Oh well what's another $900 right -- pocket change right? Whatever! Can't take it with me so might as well use it for what it can do down here...

Well -- thats the update, more in another week or two...Pray all is going well in your life and if ya get a chance drop a comment off on this site and let us know your thoughts or just say hello....We Love you all.

The Phillips Five (hopefully 6 soon) !

Life Fully Underway

2006-08-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

Well, school is officially underway again for the girls and they are so excited to be back and making new friends. Natalie has begun 1st grade and is now attending for the full day vs. the half day schedule she was on last year.
Payton is also adjusting to all her sisters being at school, and now she has free run of the house and mom during the day......What POWER she now wields. The first day back Cheryl allowed Brookie to come over to play and of course the following day Payton thought "well we've dropped the sisters of at school, it must be time to go get Brookie" -- well that didn't happen so needless to say she is learning to get along on her own for the first time.
Cheryl is also in transition - 2 kids in school and only 1 left in the house for most of the day unless you count me..LOL. She is getting to the gym again to strengthen her back and feeling better all the time...just tired from being a shuttle service all summer.

I am doing fine as always -- decided I want to try for a Triathlon sometime in 2007 -- Either Havasu or maybe locally here in Phoenix if I can get myself in shape for it by then -- lots of cardio, but that is my strength so maybe it will work out....

We start our Foster/Adopt class tonight for the next 10 weeks in hopes of adopting this little guy (Zackery) -- Pray God's will be done for this little guy and for the little one God has planned for us as well...We know he is faithful to us and 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13

Please continue to pray for those in Israel as they continue to be the scapegoats in a war they did not start, and also pray for all the civilians on either side who are caught in the middle. More updates to come and hopefully on a more regular basis (every 2 days or so). Bookmark this site and you'll always be up to date -- FYI my trip to indonesia update will be posted shortly so if you haven't seen those pictures already -- come back soon.

Blessings to you all.

2006-06-06T07:53:00.000-07:00

Welcome !

2006-06-06T07:42:00.000-07:00

This is our initial posting. More details will soon follow that include personal updates, ministry updates, and short term team infomation as it is received.

A Passion for Poland

Times.......They are a changin.......

******Fresh Perspectives******

The trip overview of Poland

Saturday Afternoon

Update From Poland

We've Landed Safe & Sound

T MINUS 17 Days.......

Planes, Trains & Automobiles......

Thankfulness for the Cross........

RUN FOREST RUN !!!!!!!

R U Ready for Christmas??

Enjoying the Process

Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado) Pics

Thank You Jesus for Our Family & Friends

ITS OFFICIAL - We're Long Term Missionaries with WorldVenture

WAY TO LONG

Nike - Human Race Day

POLAND PRESENTATION

HAVASU & PRESTON PICS

P X 3 - Debut

GO WORLD !!!!

PRESTON & Polska Wygrywać

School has begun.......08/09 Year

Summer Sun & Fun

POPS & "POP POP" (4th of July)

Sharing with Friends in Worship & Splashing

Nat 8th B-Day !!!!

Jesus

Bath & Pool Time for Preston

Dance, Swim, & Camp

Preston, Pool, & Photos.....

HOMECOMING !!!!!!

HONOR DUE

Preston - Day 2 "Reflections"

PRAISE THE LORD - PRESTON IS HERE

GO DIAMONDBACKS !!!!!

Payton's 5th B-Day Bash

He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed !!

Family Spring Break Weekend

ITS OFFICIAL - POLAND is our Destination.

Poland - Day 8

Poland - Day 7

Poland - Day 6

Poland - Day 5

Poland - Day 4

Day 3 - Poland

Day 2 - Poland

Poland - Day 1

Travel, Tennis, and Timing

Poland Here We Come.....

IT'S A BOY!!!!

Jordan or Bust !!!!!

Number 4 on the way

Camping with the Sivley's and Runyon's

Cheryl and I in Cebu, Philippines

Summer Heat / Uganda

DISNEY @ The CARIBBEAN -- How can you top that !!!!!

OK, the slacking is over.....

Sun, Surf, Sand, & Stones?

Sorrow, happiness, & a sense of direction?

Fun with Pop Pop

Exciting Times !

Day 10 Final Thoughts - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 11th ,2006)

Day 9 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 10th ,2006)

Day 8 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 9th ,2006)

Day 7 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 8th ,2006)

Day 6 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 7th ,2006)

Day 5 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 6th ,2006)

Day 4 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 5th ,2006)

Day 3 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 4th ,2006)

Day 2 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 3rd ,2006)

Day 1 in the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 2nd, 2006)

Life Uninterrupted

Life Fully Underway

Welcome !

Fresh Perspectives