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

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******

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

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

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

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

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.......

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......

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........

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 !!!!!!!

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??

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)