tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38737034095881579472024-03-06T19:59:08.065+00:00Portugal BoundNina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.comBlogger474125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-9288864806184470842015-02-09T12:20:00.001+00:002015-02-09T12:34:42.795+00:00Coffee with a FriendI had coffee with a friend this morning. <br />
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She asked me, "<a href="http://portugalbound.blogspot.pt/2008/02/sowhy-portugal.html">Why Portugal</a>"....it was fun telling her our story. She also got told the very funny story of me <a href="http://portugalbound.blogspot.pt/2008_02_01_archive.html">snorting like a pig at the butcher</a>. Yep....true story.<br />
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I don't get asked to coffee very often....in fact I can count on one hand how many times someone outside the church has asked me to do anything. Seven years later, I'm still strange to the folks around us. I mean I wear tennis shoes when I'm not supposed to, I walk around with my travel coffee mug and I hang my clothes out to dry in an unorganized fashion. In this small village, things like this matter. To me... they don't matter at all. <br />
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The fact that a new friend asked me to coffee today was a victory.<br />
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Yay for having friends.<br />
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<br />Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-21154697675944729792015-02-08T23:21:00.000+00:002015-02-08T23:24:56.618+00:00Blogging Again?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I'm not even sure how to do this any more. <br />
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Times have changed....my babies aren't, well, babies anymore. I've got 3 teenagers now and they'll probably be very disappointed/embarrassed if I blog about them now. I know I'll have to have all pictures approved before any posts goes 'live'. --- My, times have changed.....<br />
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Michael and I were talking about what the date was when we first arrived in Portugal. We knew it was the middle of February 2008, but the date.....well, we couldn't remember anymore. I used to know it by heart. And each year on that date we celebrated one more year on the foreign mission field....each and every year spent here was a victory. It's still a victory, but not quite like it used to be. Battles are different now....it's not just surviving the language barrier or figuring out where to take our babies with an ear infection. This is home to us now and home is comfortable. There are still battles, mind you....just different. We all have them, regardless of our address.<br />
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Well, I turned to the old blog to figure out what date we actually arrived and learned it was February 19, 2008. <br />
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This was taken about a week after arriving.</div>
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In another week or so we'll be celebrating 7 years in Portugal.</div>
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God is good........<br />
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So thankful He's trusted us......<br />
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It's been an awesome 7 years.<br />
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Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-72823458356786169432012-08-31T22:08:00.001+01:002012-08-31T22:08:27.098+01:00All Future Posts..........can be found here:<br />
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<a href="http://www.cbcpm.net/">www.cbcpm.net</a><br />
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Thanks!<br />
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NinaNina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-13445442250688915162012-01-31T10:34:00.000+00:002012-01-31T10:35:40.292+00:00Fun Times with Our Church Family<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Christmas Play</div>
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Christmas Eve Dinner</div>
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Two precious Angles</div>
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One Angel and One Shepherd</div>
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A Journalist and Mary</div>
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Church outing to Viana do Castelo</div>
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Two sweeties eating some sweets</div>
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At the train station </div>
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Viana do Castelo!</div>
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McDonalds is always a treat.</div>
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My Love and I on the train.</div>
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Other cuties we saw on the train.</div>
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We certainly don't take for granted our precious friends from church. This morning, I'm thanking the Lord for friendships and co-laborers in the ministry.</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/213/4A780831D52A8377D4EB9E79D4DEDF4C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-13014798806363673942012-01-20T11:44:00.000+00:002012-01-20T10:39:08.808+00:00Churrasco (Shur-ha-scoo) - BBQ Brazilian StyleDuring a lunch conversation I had recently with a precious Brazilian friend of mine, she told me that she thought I'd do very well in Brazil. She said that I had the 'lingo' down. I loved Brazilian food. I was goofy and I liked to laugh. <br />
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Then I told her that I thought she'd do very well in America too. She so sweetly tells me, almost daily, "Nina, I LOVE YOU!" (In English...just about the only English she knows!) She despises apples dipped in peanut butter, but loves peanut butter balls. She loves to have cook-outs (or "Churrasco" in Portuguese) and she's the most giving person I know.----To my surprise she told me that she found Americans a bit 'cold' and 'stand-offish'. After she spent time in 4 major American cities....Houston, Denver, Miami and one other that I can't remember...she said that she didn't really enjoy her time in America.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpypc79UbZhZ3rlRYSvut0nfS8GF-ARnFWTJyZPBZHfuTZjXSOhWQXWqCNLmOvxHF0Wshi3G3yaT-hzI6blq6vGNobhYhns1mfykCe9I8esNxNbuRNzOmowvggoCTIhqiRqLNf0udGaIw/s1600/BBQ1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpypc79UbZhZ3rlRYSvut0nfS8GF-ARnFWTJyZPBZHfuTZjXSOhWQXWqCNLmOvxHF0Wshi3G3yaT-hzI6blq6vGNobhYhns1mfykCe9I8esNxNbuRNzOmowvggoCTIhqiRqLNf0udGaIw/s640/BBQ1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Churrasco at our home a few weeks ago</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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Her neighbors weren't very friendly in America. ---This made me pause to think......<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7a3y393zZGnfNY4l4g4vYzQizZh-SxVPPTC2E1PrP3RAuYyzkFs_tXJeCLGS0oU-cl-S4-SfsDThuojUIYZVpB_XNC1mlniaqXA0P_pYQ1ThvMc3FZbHUPh-fwF61uBmId5pKS66OewT/s640/BBQ2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">What would I have done had a Brazilian family moved into my neighborhood when I lived in the States? Would I have been stand-offish, judgemental, mean? Would I have allowed my kids to play with theirs?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5QAR_p2TOGFAZO1vo9MSaIvzlk7Y4MBzV9shzowqz3sCYvdNT6xGXAA0iVavA5trDTBlN5z1vPfBS5_g75iMb21D-zJhxFJSMi9990Ut53vRfi2AUG9ly2curG5yItUIsnF739ccBEty/s1600/BBQ3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5QAR_p2TOGFAZO1vo9MSaIvzlk7Y4MBzV9shzowqz3sCYvdNT6xGXAA0iVavA5trDTBlN5z1vPfBS5_g75iMb21D-zJhxFJSMi9990Ut53vRfi2AUG9ly2curG5yItUIsnF739ccBEty/s640/BBQ3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I want to say a loud YES to all these questions....but I'm not so sure I can.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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I'm ashamed to admit that.....especially now. Knowing what I now know and being where I am has changed me for the better. My adorable, goofy, precious, giving, thoughtful Brazilian friends have made such an impact on my life.....and the lives of my children.<br />
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Now, we are the foreigners. I know how it hurts to be treated badly, or even worse...ignored.<br />
Americans are proud. Sometimes this is good, I believe. But mostly it's bad. Lord, help us.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/213/4A780831D52A8377D4EB9E79D4DEDF4C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-47586006619154386532011-11-29T12:34:00.001+00:002011-11-29T13:46:28.456+00:00Thanksgiving BlessingOur Thanksgiving was certainly a blessed day. In the past, since arriving in Portugal, we've celebrated Thanksgiving on the weekend after because the kids were always in school on Thanksgiving Day. While I enjoyed each of those celebrations, it always made me feel a little sad when Thursday came and went without any celebration. Normal routines, normal day, nothing special really.....sad day.<br />
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But this past Thursday, there was a nation wide strike planned throughout all of Portugal. So this meant that there may or may not be a bus driver for the kids that morning. <i>If</i> they made it to school, there may or may not be a teacher for the first class, or the second, or the third....you get the idea....<br />
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We've been here long enough to know that anything could happen on these days, so we took advantage of the uncertainly and allowed the kids to stay home Thanksgiving Day. We planned a lunch with other Americans and together we celebrated and shared about the blessings God has bestowed upon us this year.
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This was our table and our honored guests.<br />
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Earlier than the kids would have liked, the buzzer rang from the front gate. The kids know what that means! No one visits unannounced before noon around here, so a visitor at this hour only means one thing......A PACKAGE FROM THE STATES!! Since it's not a holiday around here, the mailman was still working and delivered a special box of goodies from Mimi!<br />
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Brooklyn with our special friend, Ms. Pat.<br />
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The kids going through the box of goodies.<br />
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This was after our bellies were full and we were being lazy by the fire, watching football.<br />
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John, our sweet friend and cancer survivor, with Faith.<br />
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Justice showing off his new hat from Mimi. Just in time for the Alabama/Auburn game.<br />
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The kiddos table.<br />
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Michael and I<br />
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Bro. Mosely and Ms. Pat<br />
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Sweet Taneski and Lovely Lauren, basketball players from the States here playing ball in Barcelos.<br />
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Our day was so special and for the first time in 4 years, it actually felt like Thanksgiving! We may have to let the kids play hooky on Thanksgiving day from now on??? Maybe the school will excuse it for religious reasons?! Wouldn't that be awesome!<br />
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I hope you're all doing well. We are moving right along. God is working in miraculous ways, but the devil is doing his share too. Please be in pray for the Andrzejewski Family as we continue to try to serve Him faithfully here where He has put us.<br />
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Happy Christmastime to You All!<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/213/4A780831D52A8377D4EB9E79D4DEDF4C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a><br />
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<br />Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-2305027681045177092011-11-16T22:03:00.001+00:002011-11-16T23:07:12.049+00:00Christmas On The Mind<br />
Don't judge me please. I'm not one of those people that puts up a tree in November and then completely skips over Thanksgiving. I promise.<br />
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It's just that winters seem so long....so cold...so wet...and so lonely at times, that having a tree up helps with the winter blues.<br />
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Monday night, after a failed attempt last Friday, was the night we finally got it all out.<br />
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I couldn't believe how quickly we got it done. Proof my kids are growing up quickly, and know better how to do this stuff than I do. Next year, I'll sit by the fire with a cup of coffee and give orders!<br />
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They even walked around with the camera snapping away. Which means that Mom got to be in some of the photos!<br />
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At this rate, we could have a few more trees around the house! (I'm only kidding, my Love!")<br />
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(Speaking of more than one tree.....Are you one of those people? You know...the ones that have a tree in every room of the house?! If so, please explain this to me....I find it very confusing.)<br />
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Liberty looking a little bit like a character from bible times......<br />
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Me, being very thankful for free, picture editing websites. I've aged quite a bit in the last few years....that complexion smoother deal is a blessing!<br />
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Trinity got lazy, it appears....<br />
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With 4 girls in this house, each within 5 years of another, it's amazing how different they are. <br />
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Personalities ringing out....sometimes accompanied with a little attitude.....but each so very precious to me.<br />
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So, there you have it. A Christmas tree is up and twinkling in this little village in a cold, dark, rainy northern Portugal. Only confirms to our neighbors that we are indeed, the crazy Americans!<br />
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Oh, and speaking of being Americans.....yesterday we were invited, Michael and I, to go to Trinity and Justices school next Wednesday morning to talk to the students about the American holiday, Thanksgiving! And then today, we were invited to go to the Jr/Sr high school and do the same thing! What an opportunity this is!! Be praying for us, would you?<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/213/4A780831D52A8377D4EB9E79D4DEDF4C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-69925213179291252212011-11-08T23:28:00.001+00:002011-11-10T17:05:56.798+00:00Faith and Friends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Faith had a pajama party for her 11th birthday.<br />
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I've decided that I like doing sleep overs better than 'Saturday afternoon--invite the whole class parties'. They're a lot easier and the kids are so much calmer. Just buy a bunch of junk food, let them giggle until at least midnight maybe 1:00, and make pancakes the next morning......wha-lah! A perfect party for an 11 year old girl!</div>
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Faith started going to what amounts to the Jr./Sr. high this year, so she met new friends. These three girls have become inseperable in the few short weeks since school started.<br />
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The fact that they were allowed to stay the night with our family, is a pretty big deal. We're the weird ones, strange Americans that have funny beliefs.....I'm so thankful their parents thought enough of us that they allowed their girls to come. <br />
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Her friends wanted to sing happy birthday in English.....you should have heard it! It was a hoot!<br />
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Later in the evening I snuck into the living room to find them looking at my old pictures. There were a lot of giggles and pointings going on! I'm sure they were laughing at my 80's hairstyles!<br />
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There was even some discussion about where in the bible it says that you can't get to heaven on good works. Faith, being a little missionary.<br />
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Then finally, the next morning, pancakes! I made these to show them how it was done then I turned the griddle over to them. They designed their own creations and ate themselves sick!<br />
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<img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77386HOqQcQ3EZTUftia6jfnURYGfWjLWLQ_R9zQjabpfvhsq_r4kUT-pOBMyOgM1YtlPLXgNN26flbdSE_QZy0iFve9d85BvJ-ZQ55c_RYdpkp_ROVryNpmxeie0GSO-STyYRrC6VvPK/s640/Faith7.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Now, as is my custom, I will list the top 11 reasons why I Love My Faith!</u></span></div>
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1.) She's tenderhearted. Especially towards those less fortunate, and animals.<br />
2.) She's always laughing. Can be annoying at times, but it's certainly what makes Faith herself.<br />
3.) She's a whiz in the kitchen...my right hand girl.<br />
4.) She frequently requests that I stop what I'm doing and sit on the sofa to cuddle with her.<br />
5.) She's easy to please. Doesn't expect much and appreciates thoughtfulness.<br />
6.) She's not embarrassed by me. She loves when I'm goofy in front of her friends.<br />
7.) She's a beautiful, child of the King!<br />
8.) She's taught us so much....especially about having "Faith" in the Lord!<br />
9.) She's a pretty good big sister. Only aggravating the younger ones, every once in a while. ;)<br />
10.) She's still her Daddy's 2x4.<br />
11.) And she will always be my Faithy!!<br />
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"Thank You Lord for this perfect addition to our family. You knew what you were doing in giving her to us. My prayer is that she grow and mature in you. Always having a desire to serve You with her whole heart."<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Happy 11th Birthday sweet girl!</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Mom and Dad love you greatly!</i></b></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/213/4A780831D52A8377D4EB9E79D4DEDF4C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-83043384374705583792011-10-14T23:26:00.000+01:002011-10-14T23:41:02.306+01:00The ABC's of Me <p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left'>It's been a LONG time since I've done anything like this....thanks <a href='Jennifer-Yates.blogspot.com' target='_self'>Jennifer</a> for recommending it!</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' ><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghitXu99QMJwzsORbJCMjQs5yKAN6D5qtWoRSABa92OlHLnr7p6g3pb9Bbg0sla4cdWZOkv7Kd8w2kugoFEukpHeznaUQKXtkMpTEuiJUUcNHOlV0VDDZ-SGM2muP19P1TL3ZuCKsPSgD_/' ></img></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left'><br><br>A. Age: 37<br>B. Bed size: I don't know....it's tiny though.<br>C. Chore that you hate: Most all of them except cooking and baking. <br>D. Dogs: Major, a black Lab<br>E. Essential start to your day: Coffee and a slice of toasted wheat bread with peanut butter and banana<br>F. Favorite color: red<br>G. Gold or Silver: I like both<br>H. Height: 5' 9" <br>I. Instruments you play: vacuum cleaner....oh, and I'm pretty good on the iron too...lol!<br>J. Job title: Wife/Mom/missionary<br>K. Kids: The coolest 5 you'll ever meet!<br>L. Live: Northern, Portugal <br>M. Make of car: Chrysler mini van<br>N. Nicknames: I've never really had a nickname, except for <br>maybe as a kid my older stepbrother always called me pig nose. Poor me.<br>O. Overnight hospital stays: tonsillectomy when I was 4 and then with the birth of each of my kids<br>P. Pet peeves: I have many, but the worst ones would be slow moving people (who have no medical condition to be this way) and people who 'bait' me.<br>Q. Quote from a movie: yo, Adrianne!? (I'm a dork, I know.)<br>R. Right or left handed: Right <br>S. Siblings: 1 step brother, 1 step sister and 1 half brother<br>T. TV Shows: my favs are Raising Hope and Parenthood<br>U. Underwear: What about it?!<br>V. Vegetable you hate: hmmmmmm I don't think I really hate any of them.<br>W. What makes you run late: I'm not ever late.<br>X. X-Rays you’ve had: Arm, broken in 4th grade. Dentist X-ray's ...few others. <br>Y. Yummy food that you make: You'll have to ask the people that eat it.<br>Z. Zoo animal: Monkeys <br><br>Your turn....and let me know if you post this...I'd love to get to know you better too!<br><br><br><br></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left'><center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6244405231/"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6059/6244405231_70991708cb.jpg" border="0" width="281" height="103" style="margin:5px"></a></center></p>Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-82466621874661698422011-10-13T17:44:00.001+01:002011-10-13T17:46:09.014+01:00An Autumn Walk Around Our PlaceYesterday, while enjoying upper 80 degree temperatures, I went for a walk with my Nikon. I didn't get too far cause I started sweating, and I wasn't up for all that. <br />
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Here are a few pictures that I took just around our house. <br />
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I'm posting using a mobile application and it won't let me give a caption for each picture individually. So.....one day I'll get all this mobile stuff figured out. <br />
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Hope all is well with you, my few faithful readers. Here, things are getting along just fine. We're busy as ever, but enjoying the blessings of our Lord. <br />
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More soon.....<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtAQJ6cIE7NsTRXQfo3leSjzCudCS-vNmn8UUbaX5CPcFVfjg8v3unmtoTsGVWOIDKjBhsrfGSWZnjB1aj1fCwueDJ07_kc8UYIhkRLx9r6tG4qIAQBUW7hrTWGG7bneRTp3abp7ehdfC/s640/blogger-image--2115148155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtAQJ6cIE7NsTRXQfo3leSjzCudCS-vNmn8UUbaX5CPcFVfjg8v3unmtoTsGVWOIDKjBhsrfGSWZnjB1aj1fCwueDJ07_kc8UYIhkRLx9r6tG4qIAQBUW7hrTWGG7bneRTp3abp7ehdfC/s640/blogger-image--2115148155.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8fHGNgXzikB7Uz3PuAe7U1O11YVAzopc3l2kxyoWHmYP8vgvSO2I4M0b2NWcCH_fEzSNmTYd-XigxQPv-gUcaeskC-CESdeiaarie8V9Bz-YqP-vViX7tKgS4UoqWWNYNC7hwXHclqCmt/s640/blogger-image--660008303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8fHGNgXzikB7Uz3PuAe7U1O11YVAzopc3l2kxyoWHmYP8vgvSO2I4M0b2NWcCH_fEzSNmTYd-XigxQPv-gUcaeskC-CESdeiaarie8V9Bz-YqP-vViX7tKgS4UoqWWNYNC7hwXHclqCmt/s640/blogger-image--660008303.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxK8Ks12PRtiz_kgQ4juLfk_O9jvuwbt5B5a4jnDmjELUnzUxGkr-boQs-e-4fYY3uU4SpFetE2Rwd9TyUtVfnSnN_k6AmHyK5kX2kMBtjO0UNtoujzJKgj6McY0g5RYA5Z-9mHUprbX_I/s640/blogger-image--248194062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxK8Ks12PRtiz_kgQ4juLfk_O9jvuwbt5B5a4jnDmjELUnzUxGkr-boQs-e-4fYY3uU4SpFetE2Rwd9TyUtVfnSnN_k6AmHyK5kX2kMBtjO0UNtoujzJKgj6McY0g5RYA5Z-9mHUprbX_I/s640/blogger-image--248194062.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGLKqPL1DNxRzSawT-8GQVORqSjmqkOmlFz24X_TC3COyOg9sW9tsJeMiK7u2-XOcZmXJ5ADLn74t71dOG4JbBek6IqO0cdwqqcOMKrEOJVFENTWvWZgOi3413DsHudUlPzMbS9DE-bM0/s640/blogger-image-1803223406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGLKqPL1DNxRzSawT-8GQVORqSjmqkOmlFz24X_TC3COyOg9sW9tsJeMiK7u2-XOcZmXJ5ADLn74t71dOG4JbBek6IqO0cdwqqcOMKrEOJVFENTWvWZgOi3413DsHudUlPzMbS9DE-bM0/s640/blogger-image-1803223406.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAsmoOhdWyZUoI51nIhm4qQOZEtvFWDxtsfXFNw-QSx8UUoze8Af84K5p7SWf5U0hMDeRWtZKi48Ar9cr5LwoMXirz2qem0IznywV5vEQsNO8v27bNlHxKW1i1EpxvgYhjtGfHVos39yfd/s640/blogger-image-1226781726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAsmoOhdWyZUoI51nIhm4qQOZEtvFWDxtsfXFNw-QSx8UUoze8Af84K5p7SWf5U0hMDeRWtZKi48Ar9cr5LwoMXirz2qem0IznywV5vEQsNO8v27bNlHxKW1i1EpxvgYhjtGfHVos39yfd/s640/blogger-image-1226781726.jpg" /></a></div>Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-58726867276350138972011-09-29T19:57:00.001+01:002011-09-29T19:57:03.575+01:00Mobile Posting? Wow...I&apos;m learning.While getting ready for service tonight, (which starts at 9:00!!! Will I ever get used to that?!) I saw this.......<br />
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Thanking my Lord for the privilege to call on him. <br />
<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4uSnncoUWtqsSx-hhzgOLLgJjtTlNnrCDy-jMSzRzK2LqWFG0jlnGKV4hx-HmfxUYbMW9gQs8Dg4HUJs2gadoBCQgWNGPsG48Qwpk5U1TbkbTdvhafjB1OGHWliQY8SfbU79azMIR1HtI/s640/blogger-image--2067309294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4uSnncoUWtqsSx-hhzgOLLgJjtTlNnrCDy-jMSzRzK2LqWFG0jlnGKV4hx-HmfxUYbMW9gQs8Dg4HUJs2gadoBCQgWNGPsG48Qwpk5U1TbkbTdvhafjB1OGHWliQY8SfbU79azMIR1HtI/s640/blogger-image--2067309294.jpg" /></a></div>Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-23388535228070123992011-09-23T10:30:00.000+01:002011-09-23T10:31:59.547+01:00Mom, is it my birthday yet?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Being programmed to stand and smile when he heard his name, Justice still struggled to obey. "Mom, they always laugh at me" was his response when given the 'evil eye' from Mom.</div>
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His sisters, each in their own varying degrees of pre-teen drama, stood and smiled. One, quickly and meekly. One with the flip of her hair and a cock of her hip. One that actually curtsied. The last, waving with her presidential smile.</div>
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Each week, another church...usually 3 different ones. He was tired of everyone looking, poking, hugging, and laughing at him. Why was it always funny when he stood up?<br />
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His Daddy, as always, introduced our family. Starting with his wife, then the oldest child to the youngest. By the time the congregation had seen the display from each of his sisters, and Daddy made a 'short joke'..."Son, are you standing?! I can't tell!!" ...Justice was mortified.</div>
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Giggles erupted, his face reddened.<br />
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Mom, pushing on his backside..."Son....stand up!"</div>
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After a lightening speed 'stand up-sit down', his Daddy would say "Justice is 4...almost 5. His birthday will be on the airplane."</div>
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How could folks not giggle at him....he's so darn cute.<br />
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But he doesn't understand that. All that mattered to him was his birthday.</div>
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We threw together a quick party for him on the last Saturday we were Stateside. Surrounded by my family to watch the season opener, we sang, ate a big cookie with an Alabama "A" on it, and he opened gifts and cards containing green paper. - "That's done." I thought. "Mark that off my Mommy to-do list".<br />
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But to Justice....it's wasn't done. </div>
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The next few days were filled with much stress. Packing, repacking, unpacking, packing again. What goes back to Portugal? What stays. Do we have room? How much does this weigh? What is most important right now? Pictures of my childood, or pictures when all the girls were babies? Both can't go.....<br />
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Justice played, watched American cartoons and enjoyed the last minute attention from grandparents. All the while counting down in his head....thinking....."on the plane will be my birthday!"<br />
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We arrived at the airport in a whirlwind of last minute plans coming together.<br />
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Is Bro. Calvin here? He's supposed to take our van.<br />
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Where is Pawpaw supposed to meet us? We can't go through security yet, he's not here.<br />
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Gramps and Toni made it. Gramps is never late. (Like his oldest son)<br />
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Do any of our trunks weigh more than 50 pounds? "Lord, please no....I want everything that's in them!"<br />
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Deep breath.... <br />
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Oh look, Bro. David came to say bye...but we're already in the security line. Run, leave bags, quick hug.<br />
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Inconsiderate people. Only concerned about themselves. Not offering to help a family of 7 with stuffed carry-ons, and help 5 kids remove their laced up, double knotted tennis shoes. They pass us by in a huff....<br />
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"Patience, Nina......we don't have to do this for another 3-4 years."<br />
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Security alarm goes crazy....I look up...Lib is standing, eyes wide....."What did I do?" She, my 'collector of little things' has an old, worn out cell phone in her pocket....Daddy takes it out roughly, tossing it into a tote going down the belt...frustrated....Lib gets a tounge lashing.<br />
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Justice still thinking...."It's about to be my birthday!"<br />
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We get on the first of three planes.<br />
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"Where is everyone sitting? Who's scared? Who's more scared and needs Mom or Dad next to them? She got a window seat last time! That HAS to go under the seat in front of you, for the 6th time! My stomach feels queasy and nervous. Did you even eat breakfast? I left my picture at Mimi's! I'm SO ready to be home...."<br />
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These are random phrases floating through the air of the 4 rows our family takes up.....<br />
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We take off and I try to leave my stress and anxiety on the runway as we ascend.<br />
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The seat belt light goes off.....Justice looks at me....."Mom, is it my birthday now?"<br />
"Not yet" I tell him. "On the next plane, the really big plane that takes us over the Atlantic ocean. On that plane you will turn 5!" I try to sound excited for him. My head pounding.<br />
<br />
5 Hours later........<br />
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On the big plane, he sits in the row behind me. With his biggest sister, surely she can handle him and let Mom and Dad sit together. The flight attendant arrives, "Um, excuse me mam (In terrible English) "you have to stop your son from pushing the call button. He keeps calling the flight attendants."<br />
<br />
Deep sigh...defeated......"Come up here son...sit with me."<br />
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He's seated, buckled, playing his new video game. I start dozing off.....<br />
<br />
"Mom.....Mom....(poking me)...Is it my birthday <b><i>now</i></b>!?!"<br />
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I look at my watch, foggy headed trying to think what timezone we were in...."Yes, son. In Portugal, it's your birthday."<br />
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Anticipation in his eyes, he starts looking around. Almost in a panic.<br />
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Then it dawns on me...<br />
<br />
He was expecting a PARTY on the airplane.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaZEOn0KENxg4YvXHUK2hHf35_zVe5mqXDmnxqG8pjUgzadlrHKo9ebFlmHkSRlu8aJ7TKDLgcQH0Fi2m4R9SrHoULyH61xQMA0EQwl8rIDc0H6EGvtS2YJ9wijfiz46kG589bwRpJDfNk/s1600/DSC_1142.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaZEOn0KENxg4YvXHUK2hHf35_zVe5mqXDmnxqG8pjUgzadlrHKo9ebFlmHkSRlu8aJ7TKDLgcQH0Fi2m4R9SrHoULyH61xQMA0EQwl8rIDc0H6EGvtS2YJ9wijfiz46kG589bwRpJDfNk/s640/DSC_1142.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Exhausted I explain that's not what I meant and not what his Daddy meant everytime he heard his Daddy tell churches that he was going to turn 5 on the airplane.<br />
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Brows furrowed, he frowns.<br />
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"You are NOT the nice Mommy right now." he says.....<br />
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At that point, I didn't care.<br />
<br />
I giggled, kissed his head and went to sleep.<br />
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<div style="color: red; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"A Very Happy 5th Birthday, to my One and Only Son!"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="color: blue; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I Love You Justice!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxF-j8qQVvy12QCfnh2JzYRdRq9IliHMyyaFupeVGWm4vamGygI9IzuefrUdSx9ZA5HZJGjkSu7Q4Zga2gWQDiSAw9vUJ9KHgHqZRKaLiVFWUWw4sFWnjQzebl4T44-5F2gu5ZUH6Ta7Ta/s1600/DSCF8064.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxF-j8qQVvy12QCfnh2JzYRdRq9IliHMyyaFupeVGWm4vamGygI9IzuefrUdSx9ZA5HZJGjkSu7Q4Zga2gWQDiSAw9vUJ9KHgHqZRKaLiVFWUWw4sFWnjQzebl4T44-5F2gu5ZUH6Ta7Ta/s640/DSCF8064.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/213/4A780831D52A8377D4EB9E79D4DEDF4C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-21175141332704909682011-09-14T09:21:00.001+01:002011-09-23T10:32:32.048+01:00Bikini Shine?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgytXcvdIgUjqDZHBM5opqQJ9ME7B2yaqIa1aZG_JRGUdVvQS1P0I2hwzsXQi7eESgNs-wxMClamDUpm5befY6pGYh6vPqAGM_CKaOhQU6p12Hgzc0KH-TQCoVAx2nRhoF6LTGD-EmEMc_q/s1600/IMG_0811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgytXcvdIgUjqDZHBM5opqQJ9ME7B2yaqIa1aZG_JRGUdVvQS1P0I2hwzsXQi7eESgNs-wxMClamDUpm5befY6pGYh6vPqAGM_CKaOhQU6p12Hgzc0KH-TQCoVAx2nRhoF6LTGD-EmEMc_q/s640/IMG_0811.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Yesterday we picked up our van from having it cleaned in preparation to sell......<br />
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I can't help but think these men shined my dashboard with their old undies!!<br />
(Hanging on the line to the right...next to where the mats to the van were.....)<br />
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Just a little bit of what we 'see' all the time......<br />
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~Thanks for your kind comments about the kids yesterday. Everything turned out fine......<br />
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Prayers from Portugal,<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/213/4A780831D52A8377D4EB9E79D4DEDF4C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a><a <span="" class="goog-spellcheck-word" href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3873703409588157947" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% yellow;"><br /></a>Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-26635553964170718992011-09-13T09:16:00.000+01:002011-09-23T10:33:07.437+01:00They're Yours LordI have a ratty notebook beside my computer full of post ideas. While washing dishes, I'll think, "Oooo, that's a good thing to blog about!" I'll run, suds-covered hands to my computer and scribble down something illegible, something that I just know you guys would love.<br />
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Then, two days later when I have 2.3 seconds to sit and write, the topics in my notebook (if I can read them) seem dumb..... shallow.......<br />
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This morning my heart is heavy.<br />
<br />
Those corny ideas will have to wait for another day.<br />
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My thoughts are on my children.<br />
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Today officially begins the school year. Three girls are already out the door while the remaining two are still in bed, awaiting Mama's call to 'rise and shine'. (Man, I could go for a Hardees biscuit right about now..)<br />
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Those oldest three.....that are gone, not to return today until after 5:30.....that will spend an entire day away from Mom and Dad.....that will make their own decisions without council from us.....those three, precious souls that God adores....those same three are on my heart.<br />
<br />
"Lord, they're yours. You blessed us with them....blessings they certainly are. But from the moment we knew for certain they were on their way, we prayed, giving them back to you. We're not capable, us alone in ourselves, of raising them. I can't be with them always, as You can. Speak to their nervous hearts this morning, encourage them to do what's right, what's honorable. Help them to shine today....a light in this dark land. Bless them I pray......"<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/213/4A780831D52A8377D4EB9E79D4DEDF4C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a><br />
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<br />Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-72421639591391808622011-09-08T10:12:00.001+01:002011-09-08T10:12:33.937+01:00We're Back!After three crazy action packed months, we're back home.<br /><br />I have so much to tell you and many pictures to post, but first,<br /><br /><br />- I have to get the cobwebs out of my house,<br />- Get my husband and Liberty feeling better,<br />- Find out when the kids start school,<br />- GROCERY SHOP!<br />- Pet my dog for the one thousandth time since arriving home 16 hrs ago,<br />- And recover from this most serious case of jet-lag.<br /><br />Back very soon!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6126203931/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6065/6126203931_90de7fd960.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='103' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-27103849783512147042011-08-14T04:48:00.003+01:002011-08-14T05:00:40.993+01:00Really?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">He breaks wind?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> ...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You decide. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/hHKJZtiyjwg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6040597706/"><img border="0" height="103" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6204/6040597706_1035e570cc.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
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Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-2982215013762105352011-08-13T17:01:00.001+01:002011-08-14T05:06:02.139+01:00Emotional times.......Although we've had a blast this summer, it's not been without our share of sickness. This past week was no exception. A stomach bug found it's way into our lives last Sunday and has hung around for the last few days. Our time spent in LaGrange has been mostly nursing sick kids back to health. However, we've been blessed with the opportunity to stay with precious friends, and have dined with others that attended Living Waters when we were here. Last night we had a special service at The church.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6038229939/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6124/6038229939_bbdcb15d36_b.jpg' border='0' width='350' height='233' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A time to reflect on what God has done and is doing in northern Portugal. Neighboring churches were invited to attend and represented last night were representatives from 6 different supporting churches as well as friends from all around this area.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6038230273/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6139/6038230273_27a96e308d_b.jpg' border='0' width='350' height='233' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The service was an emotional time for me. Many thoughts running threw my head and heart. But mostly I was celebrating God's Goodness and blessings in my life.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6038230595/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6147/6038230595_b42f738e44_b.jpg' border='0' width='350' height='233' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Each of these pictures contain faces....precious souls.....<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6038230953/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6182/6038230953_9aae750f50_b.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='420' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />People that have made a difference in our lives.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6038779080/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6192/6038779080_51635a0ca2_b.jpg' border='0' width='350' height='233' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />God has done so much since our departure in 2006 and we praise His name for His blessings on these people.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6038231641/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6062/6038231641_ab5e974515_b.jpg' border='0' width='350' height='233' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Thank You Living Waters Baptist Church and Bro. Richard for hosting the meeting. And a special thank you to all that traveled quite a way to attend. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6038232023/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6205/6038232023_9286098077_b.jpg' border='0' width='350' height='233' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The new church building is beautiful!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6038232303/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6184/6038232303_7c59fc7647_b.jpg' border='0' width='350' height='233' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We are already looking forward to seeing you again on our next furlough......<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6038232703/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6128/6038232703_2b4b17b1bf_b.jpg' border='0' width='350' height='233' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />To see what God has done in another 4 years!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6038233015/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6087/6038233015_3397548754_b.jpg' border='0' width='350' height='233' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />LaGrange, Ga is a special place because it contains precious people.....Gods people, that we love!<br /><br />Thanks Y'all!<br /><br /><br />Prayers from LaGrange,<br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/6038233203/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6133/6038233203_d530246952.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='103' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br />Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-10607249344342348722011-07-29T15:33:00.001+01:002011-07-29T15:33:47.799+01:00Moving Right AlongWith only 5 weeks left of our mini-furlough, time is flying by.<br /><br />Here is a little of what we've been doing........<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986253397/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6145/5986253397_02d59312ce_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Spending time with my Trin.....<br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986253707/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6136/5986253707_c322b04ba5_b.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Passing the time in the van........<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986254057/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6132/5986254057_8255c8ecb8_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />My babies......<br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986813610/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6140/5986813610_b3c95bda8d_b.jpg' border='0' width='250' height='374' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The kids with Gracie, our pastors daughter......<br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986813998/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6139/5986813998_84058377ca_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Lunch with our pastors family and a few friends....<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986814356/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6147/5986814356_d39290a4d6_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Mrs. K, my pastors wife.......<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986814642/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6018/5986814642_4838a827fc_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Cute little friend on my finger......<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986256017/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6012/5986256017_7415180c56_b.jpg' border='0' width='250' height='374' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The Natural Bridge in VA. That's me in the teal colored shirt...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986815670/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6007/5986815670_59e680690a_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />My love........<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986816046/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6014/5986816046_1e8d9d5a93_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Mountains of VA......<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986259245/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6017/5986259245_bf2558ace7_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Dreamland ribs........<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986818634/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6124/5986818634_a0a0d7de49_b.jpg' border='0' width='250' height='374' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Ain't nothing like them nowhere......<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5986824332/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6135/5986824332_119035c6e8_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5987275815/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6128/5987275815_13df096437_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Sweet Lib.......<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5987276139/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6129/5987276139_ece03312ec_b.jpg' border='0' width='250' height='374' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Justice being goofy......<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5987838618/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6001/5987838618_bd49aa5701_b.jpg' border='0' width='250' height='333' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A sweet quilt given to me by a group of precious ladies....<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5987277015/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6004/5987277015_51cdb3dc38_b.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Hanging with friends at Dollywood.....<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5987277289/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6007/5987277289_6524206b45_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Dixie Stampede was so much Fun.....<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5987277547/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6018/5987277547_8d353e37d0_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5987277929/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6011/5987277929_0cb984dc66_b.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5987278253/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6016/5987278253_62d445b05a_b.jpg' border='0' width='200' height='300' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Fun times.......<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5987278523/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6123/5987278523_97e86c6114_b.jpg' border='0' width='374' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />We are enjoying ourselves, but eagerly looking forward to returning to Portugal!<br /><br />Prayers from Alabama,<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5987278629/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6128/5987278629_3c8b7a39af.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='103' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-53718381916112844072011-07-09T20:23:00.001+01:002011-07-09T20:23:51.683+01:004th of JulyOur first time in 4 years to celebrate America's day of Independence on American soil.<br /><br />We spent the day at our home church with a BBQ and games. It was a beautiful day.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5918923845/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6007/5918923845_9abb8f1e9f_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Fireworks in Knoxville later that night:<br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5919483414/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6148/5919483414_5f01a4eee9_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5919483738/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6145/5919483738_bc0e7e269c_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5918924601/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6144/5918924601_a75d7b873c_b.jpg' border='0' width='167' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5919484472/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6026/5919484472_f64e35680c_b.jpg' border='0' width='167' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5919484734/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6029/5919484734_9bac75ea9a_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5918925477/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6141/5918925477_fbaece7b3e_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5919485132/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6130/5919485132_f59a3b04fe_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5919485372/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6136/5919485372_aeac3c41d2_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5919485580/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6143/5919485580_66a8471686_b.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='188' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We have been resting the last week. A much needed time to sleep in, fellowship with our pastor and his family, and of course, eating Krispy Kreme donuts way too frequently.<br /><br />Our three oldest girls will be going to camp next week, so Daddy and I will just have Justice and Trinity with us for the week. It will be fun!<br /><br />Still missing precious friends in Portugal, but soon our time will end here, and before we know it we will be on a plane back across the Atlantic.<br /><br />Prayers from Knoxville,<br /><br />Nina<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-90427138254021382972011-07-01T00:09:00.001+01:002011-07-01T00:23:29.359+01:00Furlough Fun!After three weeks Stateside, I've determined a few things.......<br /><br />Captain D's is really greasy.<br />Air conditioning makes me freeze.<br />Rich foods make my kids throw up.<br />Justice is ready to go home.<br />Coffee is brown water.<br />I miss my dog, church family and friends.<br /><br />BUT, on the other hand........<br /><br /><br />Paper plates are wonderful.<br />Built in Ice/water dispenser in fridge is luxurious.<br />Fellowship is refreshing.<br />Family and friends are priceless.<br />Krispy kreme is better than I remembered.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5886513359/'><img src='http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5151/5886513359_f0526541a5_b.jpg' border='0' width='450' height='600' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Just a few pics from the last few weeks.....<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5889410938/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6025/5889410938_46f9c47f64_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Justice caught his first ever 'lightening bug'.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5888841345/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6039/5888841345_10f77bc243_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Family trip with my extended family. Pictured here, 15 of the 16 great-grandchildren.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5889411362/'><img src='http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5231/5889411362_b81be43da1_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Getting reacquainted with cousins.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5888841833/'><img src='http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5112/5888841833_f426b6d74f_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Learning to drive go carts.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5888842165/'><img src='http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6049/5888842165_67fea8fe4c_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />14 year anniversary.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5887080752/'><img src='http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5035/5887080752_0d96b78e22_b.jpg' border='0' width='402' height='600' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Melon at the park.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5889412136/'><img src='http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5275/5889412136_7ef14b15d0_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Hanging out with Gramps who had just had surgery.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5888842579/'><img src='http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5032/5888842579_5bdfef7304_b.jpg' border='0' width='373' height='250' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Our lives as missionaries are so full and rich..... full of people and places that we love and cherish. I'm so thankful for a few weeks this summer to spend time with loved ones we've missed dearly. But on the other hand, I'm missing precious people across the Atlantic.<br /><br />Prayers from Memphis,<br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5886514951/'><img src='http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5036/5886514951_a61fec1f0b.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='103' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br />Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-22279527352527078402011-06-17T04:25:00.001+01:002011-06-17T04:25:49.380+01:00Harley Pawpaw & Trin<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/64105591@N04/5840843215/'><img src='http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2660/5840843215_02204a3e11_b.jpg' border='0' width='597' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-30551027476032108882011-06-15T21:54:00.001+01:002011-06-15T22:29:00.633+01:00Furlough Full Force<br />After 48 hours of continued travel, we finally arrived on American soil last Wednesday. Our first stop was Mimi and Paw Paw's house. The few days that followed were full of fun......<br /><br /><br /><br />Birthday parties......<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/103891665244086470676/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCNLDuKLyiOeB5AE#5618561441844619970'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGOqQ9TQSVTVbFYhohMWgkz5W0pxTpOCq8bo1_r9DypdWrXy_LgZ2xnBg1vguYBPLrBZNpZiqckPs-c4gaoMkk3cJvtLy9pUnklfm1FHczofvAHojhp0UqW-P3L-H8hdhBRlRXTqA3430w/s288/6.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='188' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />with a huge, delicious watermelon instead of a birthday cake.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/103891665244086470676/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCNLDuKLyiOeB5AE#5618561484920398482'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOen2NbOmGXQK8owkfs3xkGNcMEVDTGKSuhlR4-t7TIeIXf16YdBRRK2IBAE9OSBOnnXl2lowJ75aWpX4lfgll9KMfaPU2rfW6NwVjGTX63i1J6pIru-xuQ3YNxYBKChI_ndS_Gs0cv1H/s288/12.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='188' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Baseball lessons with PawPaw and Uncle Zac......<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/103891665244086470676/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCNLDuKLyiOeB5AE#5618561567399951474'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQYI7CbVquDbS4RMBpagoQcSTtZvciJI373ediMakjbZ-X5rE4d1xArGW2Rv2DcwVuOah7MVhKF6bStrd1Z27T2BzKBV8t9GwBjIos3UhKuE-EEJ_2yGXyw4-tUZMtvgbjBbgSA7iuTHZt/s288/13.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='188' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Jet lag set in quick.....<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/103891665244086470676/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCNLDuKLyiOeB5AE#5618561621922119762'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirOBj3E_reCw4A83k4Kds0iDzLJyg7lEhZS7ekNK3V1Cge4w4euarveDrEhOVD9zY2zABmZ2W-CO-LCbaYuKQdbA-lHiYER3GqBlyku8TY-asjto_a2SOIQZd1B2Y46mur5pGEhIjjyIxI/s288/14.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='188' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Nature trail discoveries.....<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/103891665244086470676/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCNLDuKLyiOeB5AE#5618561656287130802'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhENFr6rDyGSuaATkh0LdFQGF749ZrNZCSlrFHzi3i_QOEX_u28dMwxH7aa1pBf94o13xpNOEDxDGV0VnOtN44TQzlRPLXETDHiVMplnR9tm3cy-x4q47-_Q7DkS9lx4PK0E1TRNfvzKY25/s288/15.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='188' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/103891665244086470676/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCNLDuKLyiOeB5AE#5618561708273846674'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzGWauxlgVm2tZnOpFSiCVvshlLrOInKybKLg6MVSTwmFjJqqQlf5WuX63dGKqqs1eUjOe7nxsg6jcbSxzTe60DfvQKgZXHJ_-lUyfjnlsA__BV_AOgxlKr6KSBpqk6w9zsbqpcGU5mdO_/s288/16.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='188' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Beautiful America!<br /><br />One week down, 11 more to go. Praying to see the Lord do mighty things!<br /><br />Thank you for your prayers....<br />more soon.....<br />Nina<br />Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-25382957594730024342011-05-26T22:43:00.000+01:002011-05-26T22:43:20.546+01:00Feira de Barcelos - (Barcelos Market)Today, Michael and I spent a little time at the market. It's not often that we go without visitors. Usually it's one of the highlighted attractions that we carry our out of town guests to see. It's always very crowded and full of confusion. <br />
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Today though, as Michael and I sat near the fountain in the center of the market, I looked around, and with some Portuguese pride in my heart, I was thankful to be here. I was remembering my first trip to the market, nearly 4 years ago. Not understanding a word the venders spoke to me. Using hand gestures to communicate whether a basket I was considering buying was for trash or for dirty clothes....(try that one!) <br />
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~~~But, today....It felt like home and not that foreign world it was 4 years ago.<br />
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Here is a sample video I found online....It looks like this day it was pretty calm, must have been lunch time! ;)<br />
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This market has been around since the 1400's. Every Thursday, rain or shine.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1NCMN8Tshdw" width="560"></iframe><br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/213/4A780831D52A8377D4EB9E79D4DEDF4C.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-79512973061315423362011-05-24T22:38:00.000+01:002011-05-24T22:38:53.455+01:00Furlough FrenzyTime is winding down, and preparations are in their final stages.....less than two weeks before we leave for furlough. Lists have been made and many things already crossed off......<br />
<br />
<ul><li>Get furlough vehicle to Birmingham.</li>
<li>Find a sitter for all my gorgeous Orchids. </li>
<li>Organize the dungeon. (our junk room)</li>
<li><strike>Decide what luggage to use and how many pieces will be needed</strike>.</li>
<li>How many vehicles will be needed to take us + our luggage to the airport?</li>
<li>Find a <strike>Dog sitter</strike>, <strike>cat sitter</strike> and <strike>turtle sitter</strike>.</li>
<li><strike>Buy 60 kilos of dog food for Major</strike>. </li>
<li>Leave fridge running, or shut it down?</li>
<li>Make checklist for house watcher & dog/cat sitter.</li>
<li><strike>Install electric fence to keep dog from wandering</strike>.</li>
<li>Decide what songs the kids will sing and in which language. (I stress THE KIDS, not me.)</li>
</ul>This is only a sample of my to do list. My schedule is in high gear lately, and the work in the ministry is showing no signs of slowing down. (Praise HIS name!) <br />
<br />
<br />
Trinity helping instal the electric fence.<br />
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Justice trying to be sweet.<br />
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He asks me daily, "Mom, are we going to Amewica today?"<br />
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Last weekend we had a Convívio das Casais. (Couples meeting)<br />
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It was a precious time of fellowship, prayer and of course, Eating!<br />
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Some of the dishes. Michael made the dish on the left. It's called Baclhau à Brás. (Cod fish and Potatoes)<br />
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Salad is amazing in Portugal, once you get used to olive oil and vinegar.....Now, I'll have it no other way!!<br />
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I'll certainly miss the fresh, daily bread!<br />
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Singing praises!<br />
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Ms. Dawne stayed upstairs with the kids to give us parents an evening with other adults.<br />
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I'm going to miss these people.<br />
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<br />
So...since I'm thrilled to be visiting my homeland, but torn about not seeing my friends and church family here.....does that mean I'm officially insane, or officially a missionary? <br />
<br />
I think the two go hand in hand.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/213/4A780831D52A8377D4EB9E79D4DEDF4C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3873703409588157947.post-62424967171413525482011-05-18T22:11:00.000+01:002011-05-18T22:11:18.366+01:00Happy Birthday Brooklyn!Our oldest daughter Brooklyn turned 12 last week. Feels like yesterday I was going to the hospital in the wee hours of the morning to be induced. She was a week late and I couldn't take another day of pregnancy. Contrary to popular belief, I don't enjoy being pregnant. Although all my pregnancies were healthy ones without any complications and my Doctor told me I was a 'baby making machine', I did not like the discomfort of being huge, hot and irritated. (Looking back now, I think the irritation came from not being able to drink caffeinated beverages.....Coffee solves a world of problems!)<br />
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I remember hopping around the house, be-bopping up the steps to our little townhouse just a few days after giving birth, my family amazed at my 'quick' recovery. I told them that I felt better the day after Brooklyn was born than any day of my 9 month + 1 week pregnancy. And every baby afterwards was the same situation.....recovering from child birth was so much easier than walking around pregnant for 9 months.<br />
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So, today I'm celebrating 12 years with that little, dark headed, jaundiced bundle of joy! She's been a delight to help raise and I feel priviledged that God would choose me as her mother.<br />
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She celebrated her birthday this past weekend with 2 of her closest friends. The pijama party was a lot of fun and different for the two girls invited. PJ parties aren't very popular here....but they had a great time.<br />
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<br />
So, here goes my top 12 reasons I love Brooklyn:<br />
<br />
<ol><li>She helps me the most with improving my language skills. (That's after I've embarrassed her by butchering a language she speaks so beautifully!)</li>
<li>She's an excellent student that cares about her grades and her performance in school. (Opposite of me!)</li>
<li>Although she's not the best at keeping her room tidy, she has amazing organizational skills.</li>
<li>She's the typical bossy oldest sibling, but does well when needed to care for the younger ones in our absence.</li>
<li>She recognizes when I'm down, when I need a hug, when I need someone to volunteer to wash dishes, when I need time alone....she's sensitive and aware of others around her.</li>
<li>She makes a mean fiesta chicken.</li>
<li>She says, "Thanks Mom" a lot.</li>
<li>She taught me how to listen.</li>
<li>She taught me how to put someone else's needs before my own. </li>
<li>She still holds my hand when we walk around in public. </li>
<li>She has the love of Jesus in her heart.</li>
<li>And last but not least....you all know what's coming......She's MINE! Thank you Lord!</li>
</ol>"Happy Birthday Brooklyn Malena! I Love You!" <br />
Love, Mom<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/213/4A780831D52A8377D4EB9E79D4DEDF4C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a><br />
<ol></ol>Nina in Portugalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13682852209195660555noreply@blogger.com7