November 5, 2009
This is Travis writing… I felt like so many monumental things happened today that I just had to write it down, lest I forget what God has brought us through and to. When D and I sat down to write I grabbed the computer and then just stared at the screen. After a few seconds I looked over and said, “How do you start these things?”…haha. I have never blogged before so excuse me if I don’t write the stereotypical message.
Up to this point in our Dominican journey we have been under a tremendous amount of stress and anxiety. Living in a third world country alone is enough to give someone from the US an ulcer, but for us starting a business it’s even worse. I doubt Danielle has left any stone unturned, so I wont rehash what’s already been discussed.
After our hiatus in the States we came back with plenty of supercharged enthusiasm. We had several days to discuss the highs and lows of our first trip over. That break also gave us a chance to clear our heads and think with a clear conscience about what our strategy would be going back into the country. If anyone knows me very well they know how excited, crazy, and passionate I can get about some things. Well, business is one of those things. There is just something about business that sends me into a frenzy when I let my creativity run wild with scenarios and possibilities. I guess that’s part of being ADHD. By the way, D gets so frustrated when I get in my “zone” and somehow totally ignore everything going on around me.
So here we are….were back in the country and ready to grab the bull by the horns! We met with some friends and sent out some emails hoping to generate interest in our services. I honestly thought that our offer was so genius anyone who turned it down had to be down right brainless. It’s no mystery that we have one of the most sought after excursions on the island, yet we received absolutely ZERO feedback from our efforts. We created a proposal letter that we thought was sure to be a homerun with our prospective tour operators, but nothing was replied to. Imagine being in the last game of the World Series, all tied up, last inning, bases loaded and your up to bat. There’s a seemingly perfect opportunity to be a major producer for the team, yet you whiff every single ball. That’s pretty close to how I felt.
At this point in the game were almost do or die. I feel like any second God is gonna pull us through and then….BOOM, another dashed hope. I’m sure you’ve read up to this point and you can imagine the rollercoaster ride that it has been so far. It seems like were climbing a colossal mountain, fighting every inch to the top. When we get close enough to see over to the other side we begin to smile and prematurely celebrate, thinking that were done struggling and gasping for air. Yet every time we get close to the top, there seems to be a giant of a man that always shows up right in time to kick us back down to the bottom. This has happened so many times here that I have honestly had to psych myself out to keep my head in the game. I knew quitting wasn’t an option so I literally had to trick myself into believing that we could achieve this goal. A goal that deep down I told myself was far beyond our reach, yet somehow mustered the strength to continue pursuing. I know that sounds really weird, but we faced so many giants that I thought were impossible to conquer. In my heart of hearts there have been times where I thought that this dream of ours is nothing but a mirage. A mirage that looked so promising and foolproof, yet every time I thought we were making progress on it we only found our selves equally as far as when we had started out. The hurdles have seemed so big and unachievable that I know we couldn’t do this on our own. God has put so many random people in our paths it’s almost comical to us. To think that two 20-somethings could get this far on our own is absurd. God Almighty has been so incredibly good to us!
Today, we teamed up with our friend in the capitol, Richard. He has been a tremendous help to us throughout this whole process. We left the house with a plan to hit up the aviation department and see where we stood on our pilot license paperwork and aircraft registration. First, we went on wild goose chase for some medical certificate that the paperwork said we needed. After about and hour or two I got really frustrated and suggested that we just go to the aviation dept. and present what we had filled out. My plan was simply to inquire if we had all our ducks in a row with the exception of the medical certificate.
Richard is awesome and he knows our situation very well, so most of the time he talks to the people without us knowing what’s going on. We went through several people and finally got to the head of the licensing division. Everything we have been told up to this point is that I needed to convert my US pilot license to a Dominican one. However, after talking with this gentleman I found out that having a DR license was sort of a luxury rather than a necessity. That relieved a load of stress, lots of money, and stacks of paperwork out of the equation. Our last stop was to figure out how to get the boat registered. We went round and round with the guy on what the requirements were. He told us that they were in transition from an old law to a new one so we needed to submit a letter asking which law we must abide by. Seemed silly to us, considering we could ask someone verbally much easier and quicker. We were so confused by this point. After debating with the guy for several minutes I said, “Cant we just pull the file on the guy who is flying near us now and do exactly what he did?” You would think I just invented the wheel when I made that statement! They proceeded to pull the file and the rest is history. Now we have all our ducks in a row and tomorrow we go to submit all of our final documents. This should land us all the permits we need for operating.
Were not totally in the clear yet, but this is definitely a monumental moment for us. Consider the fact that the man we originally came to work under said it might take years to get the proper permits. That man has made me so mad throughout this whole process. I really have such a hard time trusting anyone now.
We have come such a long way in our journey! The end seems near, but there’s still lots of work to be done. At least now I can get the boat in the air and practice more. The Lord has been ever so faithful to us throughout all of our trials here. Were so thankful for all of our friends and family that remember to pray for us as we continue to fight.
I don’t know if any of this makes sense. I just figured I would throw my 2 cents in to give a little different perspective to what is going on.
Much love!
Travis Baggett
November 6, 2009
November 4, 2009
Valleys & Mountaintops
November 4, 2009
It’s the middle of the week and Trav and I got to a point of utter frustration this afternoon. Instead of sulking in our annoyance we decided to jump out in faith again and make our way to the Capitol in an attempt to meet with the officials who are able to present us the proper permits. So within 15 minutes our bag was packed and we made our way to the bus stop. So, here I am, writing away and processing all of my thoughts on the wonderful “gua gua”. These buses are actually very comfortable with their cushiony seats and fully functioning air conditioning. They even play movies the whole time, in Spanish of course! Trust me, by this point I’m dying to learn the language. I’m not too prideful to admit that I underestimated the necessity of being fluent in Spanish. I do try speaking it though, and I think the locals appreciate that tremedously.
So anyways, I guess we are trying to discern the difference between waiting on the Lord, and acting because we believe the Lord will move. I still haven’t figured out when to do which, but I believe He will honor our tenacity to see His will done. We believe He has called us here so we are choosing to boldly take action to make sure we can survive. Once all of the details are smoothed out if appears that it will be easier to direct our energy and time into other avenues, like ministry and such. But at this point (and perhaps this sounds selfish) it all must go to the foundations of the business.
You see this is the beauty of life. I have spent so many days, months, and years begging the Lord to work on me as a woman. To make me a strong woman who fears Him, yet is ingrained with an innate passion for Him. The kind of person whose whole life exhibits undeniable obedience to the calling He has for me. To live daily with the goal of loving others extravagantly and offering encouragement to all who cross my path. I desire for people to be drawn to Christ when they see how I live my life. For my life is not my own, it is His. So during this time of frustration and emotional chaos, I need to embrace it and recognize that it is for my best, it is in fact an answer to those prayers. That He is refining me and teaching me lessons that will dramatically revolutionize my life. Yes it is easier said than done, but I’ve seen Him do this in past situations in my life, and I anticipate that He is doing it again for His greater purpose.
Isn’t it wonderful when the Lord sends an encouraging loved one at the most perfect time? Earlier today my dad and I were facebooking and He was offering me sweet bouts of motivation. My dad was assuring me that he was proud of me and that meant the world to me. Furthermore, Trav’s dad (whom he absolutely adores and respects) called him around lunchtime. At first he was unaware at how distraught we were, but without hesitation he was able to encourage Travis and help him redirect his thinking about our whole situation. You see sometimes we flirt with the idea of quitting, of taking the easy road out. But, it’s at those moments when people who love us cheer us on and reassure us that they believe in us; what a blessing those people are to Travis and I.
I also got to talk with my father-in-law for a little while. He also offered me the same inspiring words about keeping focused and staying positive. He also was telling me how life was in the states. Yes, life is undoubtedly easier in the States… you have everything at hand and we know the language. But, in terms of the current shape of the US, it is “no bueno”. He was telling me how difficult it is becoming to live there and how the negativity and chaos just eats at him. You can’t turn on the TV without being inundated with how much of a mess the US is in. In fact, he agrees that living here on an island is much better because of solely that! So I decided, yes we have troubles here…. But there will always be troubles everywhere. It’s what you do with them and how you plan to conquer them that matters.
My father-in-law also talked about the mountain and the valley experiences, which is such a God thing because I was just reading about this the other day in my devotions. Yes, the mountaintop is stunningly gorgeous, it’s easy, and it’s seemingly perfect. However, it wouldn’t be so beautiful if we didn’t experience the rough terrain and unexpected obstacles while trudging through the valleys. It’s there that we are shaped and molded. It’s there that we then appreciate the beauty and momentary satisfaction on the mountaintop. But, as I’ve learned the mountaintop doesn’t sustain life. It is impossible to live there forever. In fact, if that were my hearts desire, to remain on the mountaintop, then I would no longer have my eyes on Christ, it would be for selfish ambition only.
And so in this valley I embrace the change, I embrace the unpleasant obstacles that surround us, and I embrace the opportunity to live in this new Country. My new “goal” is to be a light to the children and families around us. My heart breaks for them. Most of these precious kids raise themselves either because their parents don’t care, aren’t alive, or the maids raise them. They don’t know what it is like to have an adult interested in their lives and upbringing. Please pray that Travis and I will be able to influence these kids in a huge way and for the Lord to open doors regarding which direction we need to move the business.
Thank you all for being so good to us, we appreciate you more than we could ever express! ☺
Love & Miss you,
D&T
It’s the middle of the week and Trav and I got to a point of utter frustration this afternoon. Instead of sulking in our annoyance we decided to jump out in faith again and make our way to the Capitol in an attempt to meet with the officials who are able to present us the proper permits. So within 15 minutes our bag was packed and we made our way to the bus stop. So, here I am, writing away and processing all of my thoughts on the wonderful “gua gua”. These buses are actually very comfortable with their cushiony seats and fully functioning air conditioning. They even play movies the whole time, in Spanish of course! Trust me, by this point I’m dying to learn the language. I’m not too prideful to admit that I underestimated the necessity of being fluent in Spanish. I do try speaking it though, and I think the locals appreciate that tremedously.
So anyways, I guess we are trying to discern the difference between waiting on the Lord, and acting because we believe the Lord will move. I still haven’t figured out when to do which, but I believe He will honor our tenacity to see His will done. We believe He has called us here so we are choosing to boldly take action to make sure we can survive. Once all of the details are smoothed out if appears that it will be easier to direct our energy and time into other avenues, like ministry and such. But at this point (and perhaps this sounds selfish) it all must go to the foundations of the business.
You see this is the beauty of life. I have spent so many days, months, and years begging the Lord to work on me as a woman. To make me a strong woman who fears Him, yet is ingrained with an innate passion for Him. The kind of person whose whole life exhibits undeniable obedience to the calling He has for me. To live daily with the goal of loving others extravagantly and offering encouragement to all who cross my path. I desire for people to be drawn to Christ when they see how I live my life. For my life is not my own, it is His. So during this time of frustration and emotional chaos, I need to embrace it and recognize that it is for my best, it is in fact an answer to those prayers. That He is refining me and teaching me lessons that will dramatically revolutionize my life. Yes it is easier said than done, but I’ve seen Him do this in past situations in my life, and I anticipate that He is doing it again for His greater purpose.
Isn’t it wonderful when the Lord sends an encouraging loved one at the most perfect time? Earlier today my dad and I were facebooking and He was offering me sweet bouts of motivation. My dad was assuring me that he was proud of me and that meant the world to me. Furthermore, Trav’s dad (whom he absolutely adores and respects) called him around lunchtime. At first he was unaware at how distraught we were, but without hesitation he was able to encourage Travis and help him redirect his thinking about our whole situation. You see sometimes we flirt with the idea of quitting, of taking the easy road out. But, it’s at those moments when people who love us cheer us on and reassure us that they believe in us; what a blessing those people are to Travis and I.
I also got to talk with my father-in-law for a little while. He also offered me the same inspiring words about keeping focused and staying positive. He also was telling me how life was in the states. Yes, life is undoubtedly easier in the States… you have everything at hand and we know the language. But, in terms of the current shape of the US, it is “no bueno”. He was telling me how difficult it is becoming to live there and how the negativity and chaos just eats at him. You can’t turn on the TV without being inundated with how much of a mess the US is in. In fact, he agrees that living here on an island is much better because of solely that! So I decided, yes we have troubles here…. But there will always be troubles everywhere. It’s what you do with them and how you plan to conquer them that matters.
My father-in-law also talked about the mountain and the valley experiences, which is such a God thing because I was just reading about this the other day in my devotions. Yes, the mountaintop is stunningly gorgeous, it’s easy, and it’s seemingly perfect. However, it wouldn’t be so beautiful if we didn’t experience the rough terrain and unexpected obstacles while trudging through the valleys. It’s there that we are shaped and molded. It’s there that we then appreciate the beauty and momentary satisfaction on the mountaintop. But, as I’ve learned the mountaintop doesn’t sustain life. It is impossible to live there forever. In fact, if that were my hearts desire, to remain on the mountaintop, then I would no longer have my eyes on Christ, it would be for selfish ambition only.
And so in this valley I embrace the change, I embrace the unpleasant obstacles that surround us, and I embrace the opportunity to live in this new Country. My new “goal” is to be a light to the children and families around us. My heart breaks for them. Most of these precious kids raise themselves either because their parents don’t care, aren’t alive, or the maids raise them. They don’t know what it is like to have an adult interested in their lives and upbringing. Please pray that Travis and I will be able to influence these kids in a huge way and for the Lord to open doors regarding which direction we need to move the business.
Thank you all for being so good to us, we appreciate you more than we could ever express! ☺
Love & Miss you,
D&T
November 3, 2009
November 3, 2009
We have officially been back for one week. We still love love love our new apartment, we have had barely any problems with it, which is a great relief! You never know how well things will be constructed here.
I would be lying though if I said it’s been easy coming back. You know when I was younger I tried figuring out where exactly it was that Satan tried to get a stronghold on me. I never struggled with drinking or drugs or promiscuity, but the Lord revealed to me that it was my joy that was being tried. Ever since I was little people called me “smiley” and wondered why I always walked around so happy. Well as I got older and life became a little more complex, it became equally as difficult maintaining that beaming smile. From that point on I knew that my life would encompass a continual battle over my joy. With that being said, this past week has been a difficult one.
It’s not even for one particular reason, but merely a combination of numerous little things. It’s me missing my dads birthday last weekend, family and friends Halloween parties we couldn’t attend, my nephews first birthday party, thanksgiving quickly approaching and being without any family. And then the devil quickly reminds me of all the things I’m giving up that I love… like working out because I can’t go anywhere alone and Trav doesn’t like to run, cooking because well there’s not much to cook with ☺, being plugged into a local church, speaking English with friends, seasons changing, etc. Those are all “State” missings, but then we come here and have to wait so long to get our business going. That dang new-yorker in me likes to get things done, and get it done quickly. But here everything is “muy tranquillo” or “slow down/relaxed” ☺. So until we get flying we are restricted to what we can do, because we can’t spend money unless it’s absolutely necessary. Okay, I’m done. I’ll get off my soapbox now… but that’s just the reality of the thoughts Satan is feeding me to get me unfocused and discouraged. And for a few days I let him win, but he’s no longer going to have any victories in my life. I will hold fast to the vision and calling the Lord has given us, and I will do it boldly with a genuine smile on my face.
Yesterday we had a little “scare”. One of our neighbors said while we were gone a person pulled into our apartment complex and went over directly to our boat/plane. Apparently he was just looking around and being nosey. Well our neighbor, knowing that it was our boat, went over to see what this man was doing. This mystery man started asking our neighbor all sorts of questions about us and telling him that we had to have permits and such to fly, this that and the other thing. Our neighbor also said that this man talked to our apartment manager/owner, and as soon as he was done he left, almost as if his whole reasoning for being there was to find out information. We had a friend of ours ask the owner what this man asked him, and he said he didn’t talk to anyone that morning. So, we are left with two different stories, equally as odd and confusing. I don’t know what to believe, but this reinforces that we must be alert and aware of our surroundings!
We have emailed some tour operators and we are anxiously awaiting a response. We hope very much that the Lord will open one of these doors for us. But, if he doesn’t, I believe it is because He has a different plan for us. His ways are ALWAYS higher and greater than our own.
We would greatly appreciate your prayers during this difficult time of “unknowns” and waiting periods.
Love you and miss you all!
D&T
I would be lying though if I said it’s been easy coming back. You know when I was younger I tried figuring out where exactly it was that Satan tried to get a stronghold on me. I never struggled with drinking or drugs or promiscuity, but the Lord revealed to me that it was my joy that was being tried. Ever since I was little people called me “smiley” and wondered why I always walked around so happy. Well as I got older and life became a little more complex, it became equally as difficult maintaining that beaming smile. From that point on I knew that my life would encompass a continual battle over my joy. With that being said, this past week has been a difficult one.
It’s not even for one particular reason, but merely a combination of numerous little things. It’s me missing my dads birthday last weekend, family and friends Halloween parties we couldn’t attend, my nephews first birthday party, thanksgiving quickly approaching and being without any family. And then the devil quickly reminds me of all the things I’m giving up that I love… like working out because I can’t go anywhere alone and Trav doesn’t like to run, cooking because well there’s not much to cook with ☺, being plugged into a local church, speaking English with friends, seasons changing, etc. Those are all “State” missings, but then we come here and have to wait so long to get our business going. That dang new-yorker in me likes to get things done, and get it done quickly. But here everything is “muy tranquillo” or “slow down/relaxed” ☺. So until we get flying we are restricted to what we can do, because we can’t spend money unless it’s absolutely necessary. Okay, I’m done. I’ll get off my soapbox now… but that’s just the reality of the thoughts Satan is feeding me to get me unfocused and discouraged. And for a few days I let him win, but he’s no longer going to have any victories in my life. I will hold fast to the vision and calling the Lord has given us, and I will do it boldly with a genuine smile on my face.
Yesterday we had a little “scare”. One of our neighbors said while we were gone a person pulled into our apartment complex and went over directly to our boat/plane. Apparently he was just looking around and being nosey. Well our neighbor, knowing that it was our boat, went over to see what this man was doing. This mystery man started asking our neighbor all sorts of questions about us and telling him that we had to have permits and such to fly, this that and the other thing. Our neighbor also said that this man talked to our apartment manager/owner, and as soon as he was done he left, almost as if his whole reasoning for being there was to find out information. We had a friend of ours ask the owner what this man asked him, and he said he didn’t talk to anyone that morning. So, we are left with two different stories, equally as odd and confusing. I don’t know what to believe, but this reinforces that we must be alert and aware of our surroundings!
We have emailed some tour operators and we are anxiously awaiting a response. We hope very much that the Lord will open one of these doors for us. But, if he doesn’t, I believe it is because He has a different plan for us. His ways are ALWAYS higher and greater than our own.
We would greatly appreciate your prayers during this difficult time of “unknowns” and waiting periods.
Love you and miss you all!
D&T
October 28, 2009
October 28, 2009
Let me really quick summarize our traveling yesterday…
We made it to bed by midnight for our flight that left at 6am. Which means it was mandatory to be at the airport by 4am. We made it there no problem, however troubles arose when we were checking in with the woman at the ticket counter. The good news was our luggage was free (versus over 300 dollars the first time we moved here!), the bad news was they were giving us a hard time about bringing our dog. First the woman told us that our carrier was too big to bring on as a carry on. Fine, we can check her we thought. She was okay with that except she insisted that Sugars’ crate be tall enough so she can stand up and turn around with no problem (Something about animal cruelty or such). She was not cramped in it, but she had to hunch over a tiny bit when she stood. The woman would not budge and told us unless we were able to show her a different crate it would not be possible to bring her. So Travis’ mom turned around and drove all the way back to the airport to pick up our dog. Travis told her she could keep her or sell her but we were not allowed to bring her. Of course you can assume that we were VERY irritated at this point. It’s hard when times like these make you frustrated and you try so hard to not be rude. So as Travis was coming back from giving his mom our puppy I told the counter woman that we aren’t just vacationing to Punta Cana, but we live there. And by her not allowing us to bring her we have to give her up. Well when she heard that her whole attitude changed. She told us to bring her back and as long as we don’t mind the “cruelty” to her, that they would do it. So in the end it all worked out, but boy was it unnerving, ESPECIALLY since we were on 3 hours of sleep and it was 4am. ☺
Our flight went well… no problems. Our missionary friend picked us up from the airport and as soon as we got on the road to head home we witnessed a minor car collision. The scary part was what proceeded to follow. The two drivers had the road blocked so we couldn’t pass and one of them was clearly furious. He got out of his truck with a steel pipe in hand, and another man following him, also holding onto a pipe. They rushed over to the other car and began beating it and trying to drag the driver out. The driver managed to speed away, and we were able to creep around the chaos. It wasn’t a very comforting situation, no was it the kind of welcome home scenario I was thinking of… ☺
So besides that…
We are here! We slept in our new apartment last night for the first time and it is wonderful! What a difference a nicer home makes in your attitude and perspective of a place. I know it sounds like I’m spoiled, but being 1000’s of miles away from my family AND living in a third world country it more difficult that you might imagine. So, it is nice to have a clean living environment, somewhere that you can feel safe in.
Travis and I finished unpacking our entire assortment of luggage to make our apartment look and feel better. Travis already began putting together a 2000 piece puzzle, he LOVES puzzles! Now it’s just all the little things that will take time to make it “home-ier”.
This morning Trav and I had much needed time in the Word together. We read many encouraging verses in Psalm 50-55 (Pslam 55:22 in particular is awesome!). I was pleading to the Lord to help us with the rest of the steps for our business to come to fruition and to obtain the proper permits. (There’s nothing that will wear out your knees from praying more than being completely broke and knowing that bills are just a few days away from needed payment.) We are focused and driven to continue this process, with the Lord directing our steps. We believe that He will meet our needs and light our paths of where to go.
Sometimes the Lord is slow to answer prayers, and sometimes He works speedily! Today I got to witness his favor on our lives and aid in this journey first hand. Let me explain… Today we also hung out with a Dominican friend of ours. Him and his wife have been such a huge blessing to us. They have played key roles in introducing us to others who have aided our process of business. We were explaining to them our plight regarding suffering for a few more months and forking out even more money to be completely independent, or whether we should work underneath that Dominican whom we were originally going to work with (who is also requiring us to give him 50% of our earnings). His wife was thinking for a while and thought that we should meet with Club Caribe’ and be a sub-contractor for them. In this case they would market our flying boat to all 50 hotels in Punta Cana AND provide transportation for the tourists to our location. We would negotiate a price with them, they would mark it up for them to make a profit and we would be set. We could work under all of their permits (while still continuing to get ours) and keep more of our earnings AND have tons of advertising. She is currently setting up a meeting with us and Club Caribe. Please pray that we are able to land a contract with them, it would be a HUGE blessing!
Skype us or facebook us! We love you all and miss you tons!
-D&T0
We made it to bed by midnight for our flight that left at 6am. Which means it was mandatory to be at the airport by 4am. We made it there no problem, however troubles arose when we were checking in with the woman at the ticket counter. The good news was our luggage was free (versus over 300 dollars the first time we moved here!), the bad news was they were giving us a hard time about bringing our dog. First the woman told us that our carrier was too big to bring on as a carry on. Fine, we can check her we thought. She was okay with that except she insisted that Sugars’ crate be tall enough so she can stand up and turn around with no problem (Something about animal cruelty or such). She was not cramped in it, but she had to hunch over a tiny bit when she stood. The woman would not budge and told us unless we were able to show her a different crate it would not be possible to bring her. So Travis’ mom turned around and drove all the way back to the airport to pick up our dog. Travis told her she could keep her or sell her but we were not allowed to bring her. Of course you can assume that we were VERY irritated at this point. It’s hard when times like these make you frustrated and you try so hard to not be rude. So as Travis was coming back from giving his mom our puppy I told the counter woman that we aren’t just vacationing to Punta Cana, but we live there. And by her not allowing us to bring her we have to give her up. Well when she heard that her whole attitude changed. She told us to bring her back and as long as we don’t mind the “cruelty” to her, that they would do it. So in the end it all worked out, but boy was it unnerving, ESPECIALLY since we were on 3 hours of sleep and it was 4am. ☺
Our flight went well… no problems. Our missionary friend picked us up from the airport and as soon as we got on the road to head home we witnessed a minor car collision. The scary part was what proceeded to follow. The two drivers had the road blocked so we couldn’t pass and one of them was clearly furious. He got out of his truck with a steel pipe in hand, and another man following him, also holding onto a pipe. They rushed over to the other car and began beating it and trying to drag the driver out. The driver managed to speed away, and we were able to creep around the chaos. It wasn’t a very comforting situation, no was it the kind of welcome home scenario I was thinking of… ☺
So besides that…
We are here! We slept in our new apartment last night for the first time and it is wonderful! What a difference a nicer home makes in your attitude and perspective of a place. I know it sounds like I’m spoiled, but being 1000’s of miles away from my family AND living in a third world country it more difficult that you might imagine. So, it is nice to have a clean living environment, somewhere that you can feel safe in.
Travis and I finished unpacking our entire assortment of luggage to make our apartment look and feel better. Travis already began putting together a 2000 piece puzzle, he LOVES puzzles! Now it’s just all the little things that will take time to make it “home-ier”.
This morning Trav and I had much needed time in the Word together. We read many encouraging verses in Psalm 50-55 (Pslam 55:22 in particular is awesome!). I was pleading to the Lord to help us with the rest of the steps for our business to come to fruition and to obtain the proper permits. (There’s nothing that will wear out your knees from praying more than being completely broke and knowing that bills are just a few days away from needed payment.) We are focused and driven to continue this process, with the Lord directing our steps. We believe that He will meet our needs and light our paths of where to go.
Sometimes the Lord is slow to answer prayers, and sometimes He works speedily! Today I got to witness his favor on our lives and aid in this journey first hand. Let me explain… Today we also hung out with a Dominican friend of ours. Him and his wife have been such a huge blessing to us. They have played key roles in introducing us to others who have aided our process of business. We were explaining to them our plight regarding suffering for a few more months and forking out even more money to be completely independent, or whether we should work underneath that Dominican whom we were originally going to work with (who is also requiring us to give him 50% of our earnings). His wife was thinking for a while and thought that we should meet with Club Caribe’ and be a sub-contractor for them. In this case they would market our flying boat to all 50 hotels in Punta Cana AND provide transportation for the tourists to our location. We would negotiate a price with them, they would mark it up for them to make a profit and we would be set. We could work under all of their permits (while still continuing to get ours) and keep more of our earnings AND have tons of advertising. She is currently setting up a meeting with us and Club Caribe. Please pray that we are able to land a contract with them, it would be a HUGE blessing!
Skype us or facebook us! We love you all and miss you tons!
-D&T0
October 23, 2009
October 21, 2009
One of the sweetest times for me is listening to the older generations stories. I’ve got to hear many funny memories while being here in Bancroft, Nebraska (population=200). Travis’ grandparents live here and I’ve been blessed to have the opportunity to spend lots of quality time with them. Their names are Betty Lou (79 years old) and Harold Nelson (almost 85 years old). Harold was born in this farmhouse surrounded by 130 acres and lived here ever since. Bancroft really is the “small town” splendor that you read about in books or see in old time movies. You go into town, which is compiled of a few stores that don’t even add up to equal the size of a wal-mart. As “Grandma” and I entered each store we were personally greeted with first names by smiling faces. How sweet that everyone knows everyone! What is funny is that I ran to the store later that night to get something for Grandma and this woman asks “You’re not from Bancroft are you?” I giggled and said “no”. And she said she didn’t think so because she knows everyone here and she’s never seen me. So I guess each side has its’ pros and cons (moving a lot vs. staying in one place your whole life).
But, what I love so much about our Grandparents is their sense of well-being. The youth that they radiate is indescribable. Some may call it stubborn, others may say it’s just their personality, but whatever it be, they are determined to not be held back by aging. They still partake in their daily duties as if they were in their 20’s. Of course they make take a bit longer to finish their tasks, but they do it without groaning and complaining about their age and aches. I hope I am like them when I age. That’s part of the reason I decided 4 years ago to each very healthy and continue exercising. I do not want to be burdened with all kinds of illnesses, and not to mention my body is the Lords temple and He deserves the best I can give.
This last week we’ve been quite busy here in Nebraska. One day we spent 3 hours in the corn and bean fields combining (harvesting) the crops. This machine they use to harvest is so incredibly sophisticated, perhaps that is why it costs a mere $350,000. We also got to go look at a friend’s pet deer named Buddy the Buck. Grandma took me into “town” one day to shop and get our nails done. She’s a doll ☺. Besides that we drove through Iowa and South Dakota to get to Minneapolis, Minnesota for Travis’ brothers’ wedding. We had so much fun up there! Besides all of the wedding events we attended, we also got to play around in Mall of America and ride on roller coasters. It was fun to be around a lot of Travis’ family. They spoiled us so much, buying our meals or slipping us some money. What a blessing our family has been to us! I hope they know how truly grateful we are. The more others bless me the more I can’t wait to be able to bless others financially! That’s why it is better to give than to receive.
So… Friday we head back to Houston and the following Tuesday we head back to the DR.
To be honest I’m getting kind of sad about going back. I know you probably think I’m crazy that I would be sad… but as the holidays approach and the seasons change I’m quickly becoming aware of what I’m going to miss in the next few months. Decorating for Thanksgiving and Christmas, Thanksgiving Dinner, Cutting down our own Christmas Tree, Baking Christmas cookies, going caroling, cold weather, decorating the Tree, Church Christmas plays, and family. Yesterday I decided to have my own little festitivities. So I baked Pumpkin Chocolate Chip cookies while listening to Frank Sinatra’s Christmas Album.
So, please pray for us as we adjust to our new life. I know it will be wonderful with Travis and I; it is just going to be different the first year. Please pray for strength and discernment to continue following where the Lord is calling us, and comfort from Him as we adjust.
Love you all so much!
D&T
But, what I love so much about our Grandparents is their sense of well-being. The youth that they radiate is indescribable. Some may call it stubborn, others may say it’s just their personality, but whatever it be, they are determined to not be held back by aging. They still partake in their daily duties as if they were in their 20’s. Of course they make take a bit longer to finish their tasks, but they do it without groaning and complaining about their age and aches. I hope I am like them when I age. That’s part of the reason I decided 4 years ago to each very healthy and continue exercising. I do not want to be burdened with all kinds of illnesses, and not to mention my body is the Lords temple and He deserves the best I can give.
This last week we’ve been quite busy here in Nebraska. One day we spent 3 hours in the corn and bean fields combining (harvesting) the crops. This machine they use to harvest is so incredibly sophisticated, perhaps that is why it costs a mere $350,000. We also got to go look at a friend’s pet deer named Buddy the Buck. Grandma took me into “town” one day to shop and get our nails done. She’s a doll ☺. Besides that we drove through Iowa and South Dakota to get to Minneapolis, Minnesota for Travis’ brothers’ wedding. We had so much fun up there! Besides all of the wedding events we attended, we also got to play around in Mall of America and ride on roller coasters. It was fun to be around a lot of Travis’ family. They spoiled us so much, buying our meals or slipping us some money. What a blessing our family has been to us! I hope they know how truly grateful we are. The more others bless me the more I can’t wait to be able to bless others financially! That’s why it is better to give than to receive.
So… Friday we head back to Houston and the following Tuesday we head back to the DR.
To be honest I’m getting kind of sad about going back. I know you probably think I’m crazy that I would be sad… but as the holidays approach and the seasons change I’m quickly becoming aware of what I’m going to miss in the next few months. Decorating for Thanksgiving and Christmas, Thanksgiving Dinner, Cutting down our own Christmas Tree, Baking Christmas cookies, going caroling, cold weather, decorating the Tree, Church Christmas plays, and family. Yesterday I decided to have my own little festitivities. So I baked Pumpkin Chocolate Chip cookies while listening to Frank Sinatra’s Christmas Album.
So, please pray for us as we adjust to our new life. I know it will be wonderful with Travis and I; it is just going to be different the first year. Please pray for strength and discernment to continue following where the Lord is calling us, and comfort from Him as we adjust.
Love you all so much!
D&T
October 18, 2009
October 12, 2009
Once again it is another American holiday and I’m completely oblivious to it. This time I have no excuse, I am in the US right now. Ha Ha! Happy Columbus Day!
So it’s about that time that the weather cools down and the air has a unique crispy cool felling to it, and I LOVE it! Especially after living in tropical paradise I’m appreciating the seasons changing even more! I love fall, I’m pretty sure it’s my favorite season. Which perhaps is the reason that I miss my family so much right now. The fall foliage rides, the punkin carvings, apple cider donuts, corn mazes, and Thanksgiving. Luckily my father and mother-in-law will be visiting us for Thanksgiving in the DR. I think that will help the adjustment of the first holidays away from my family.
Our time in Texas has been wonderful and full of many hours of Scrabble games. To me there is nothing better and more rejuvenating than quality time laughing and talking with your beloved family. We truly do cherish every memory we share with those closest to us.
Right now we are in the airport waiting for our flight to Omaha, Nebraska. Yayy a new state for me! I’m very excited to see something new and to visit Travis’ grandparents farm. They’ve lived there, in the same home their whole life. That’s unbelievable to me. I’m only 22 and have lived in 13 different places with many different homes. But then again I thrive on it. I love experiencing new things and meeting all different kinds of people. Everyone has his or her own story… if I had it my way I would just sit with a cup of sugar-free vanilla coffee and just listen to everyone’s journey. Perhaps I would even get an opportunity to encourage them if they so needed it. Or I, myself, would be encouraged. Ironically that is exactly what church was about yesterday. (And boy was it nice being in church again! There’s something so amazing to me about corporate worship and teaching!) Anyways, this pastor talked about Paul’s crazy testimony and how zealous he was to tell others about it. I also have an incredible story of God’s redemption and favor on my life, and I have been inspired to be more vocal about it. I am loved and saved by the creator of the Universe and I year to give Him the glory He deserves.
Speaking of the Lord saving me and showing me favor when I don’t deserve it… He ONCE again provided for us in a very unique way. As I have mentioned previously, we are tight on money for this season of our life. Well, one of my lovely girl friends here in Texas took me to Starbucks yesterday. We had a wonderful time playing catch up and sharing what the Lord is doing in our lives now. Well after we had spent time together we showed back up at our house with a white envelope from her mother. She has a very sweet mother who surprised us with a very generous blessing. It was a late wedding gift, but something that was much needed. It truly brought tears to my eyes as I opened it. It was because I realized it was more than just a gift for our precious wedding, it was the Lords favor and answer to prayer. He promises to provide for His children, and the Word says His hand is never too short to give. What a Great God!
So I can’t help but laugh at myself when I worry, for it’s moments like these that remind me that He works in mysterious ways and He has our best interest in mind.
Be encouraged because he desires to do the same thing with you!
Love,
Danielle
So it’s about that time that the weather cools down and the air has a unique crispy cool felling to it, and I LOVE it! Especially after living in tropical paradise I’m appreciating the seasons changing even more! I love fall, I’m pretty sure it’s my favorite season. Which perhaps is the reason that I miss my family so much right now. The fall foliage rides, the punkin carvings, apple cider donuts, corn mazes, and Thanksgiving. Luckily my father and mother-in-law will be visiting us for Thanksgiving in the DR. I think that will help the adjustment of the first holidays away from my family.
Our time in Texas has been wonderful and full of many hours of Scrabble games. To me there is nothing better and more rejuvenating than quality time laughing and talking with your beloved family. We truly do cherish every memory we share with those closest to us.
Right now we are in the airport waiting for our flight to Omaha, Nebraska. Yayy a new state for me! I’m very excited to see something new and to visit Travis’ grandparents farm. They’ve lived there, in the same home their whole life. That’s unbelievable to me. I’m only 22 and have lived in 13 different places with many different homes. But then again I thrive on it. I love experiencing new things and meeting all different kinds of people. Everyone has his or her own story… if I had it my way I would just sit with a cup of sugar-free vanilla coffee and just listen to everyone’s journey. Perhaps I would even get an opportunity to encourage them if they so needed it. Or I, myself, would be encouraged. Ironically that is exactly what church was about yesterday. (And boy was it nice being in church again! There’s something so amazing to me about corporate worship and teaching!) Anyways, this pastor talked about Paul’s crazy testimony and how zealous he was to tell others about it. I also have an incredible story of God’s redemption and favor on my life, and I have been inspired to be more vocal about it. I am loved and saved by the creator of the Universe and I year to give Him the glory He deserves.
Speaking of the Lord saving me and showing me favor when I don’t deserve it… He ONCE again provided for us in a very unique way. As I have mentioned previously, we are tight on money for this season of our life. Well, one of my lovely girl friends here in Texas took me to Starbucks yesterday. We had a wonderful time playing catch up and sharing what the Lord is doing in our lives now. Well after we had spent time together we showed back up at our house with a white envelope from her mother. She has a very sweet mother who surprised us with a very generous blessing. It was a late wedding gift, but something that was much needed. It truly brought tears to my eyes as I opened it. It was because I realized it was more than just a gift for our precious wedding, it was the Lords favor and answer to prayer. He promises to provide for His children, and the Word says His hand is never too short to give. What a Great God!
So I can’t help but laugh at myself when I worry, for it’s moments like these that remind me that He works in mysterious ways and He has our best interest in mind.
Be encouraged because he desires to do the same thing with you!
Love,
Danielle
October 6, 2009
October 6, 2009
(This posting is me putting my thoughts down and searching for encouragement in Scripture. I'm not writing because I think you all need help with marriage/relationships, I'm just writing because I'm in some need of encouragement and strong Bible verse myself :) )
-------------------------------------------------------
Sometimes I get frustrated when I feel like I'm failing as a wife.
Perhaps because I've only been married 9 months I feel like I'm still trying to learn the clear difference between raising issues that concern me and nagging or just complaining.
Now, let me set the record straight. I absolutely ADORE my husband, he's wonderful in every way. I firmly believe that I have the most amazing husband in the world, sorry ladies ;) He's a firm believer, handsome, fun, crazy, exciting, a dreamer, he loves deeply, encourages me, perseverant, supportive, etc. etc. But, what I LOVE the most about him is that he is my best friend. We never get tired of spending time together and even more importantly, we shoot straight with each other. We offer advice where we think each other can improve. Merely because we believe in each others' potential!
But, I guess I just get paranoid that I'm not bringing issues into the light in the right tone or time.
And then the Lord ever so gently reminds me...
Ephesians 4:15 "Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ."
And who better to assist me in continually trying to speak the truth in love? My Savior!
....
But still... sometimes I feel so guilty when I open my mouth to voice something that I'm sure will cause tension. I hate fighting and I try to avoid it at all costs. However, in all my marriage counseling books I've read it is totally normal and HEALTHY to have appropriate conflict and disagreements... for it grows your marriage.
Romans 12: 17-18 "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone"
Clearly, we are called to live at peace with everyone. However, we all know that burying our unsolved issues brews bitterness which leads to resentment. That is why I believe it is important to have healthy conflict so then you are able to live at peace with each other.
But, what do I think is most vital in this whole issue?
Focusing on changing me.
2 Corinthians 13:5 "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you-- unless, of course, you fail the test?"
Matthew 7:15 "Do not judge lest you be judged... You hypocrite, FIRST take the log out of your OWN eye, and THEN you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye."
I'm to love and serve my husband, to pray for him, support him and encourage him. But, as far as continually working out salvation and producing an abundance of fruits of the Spirit, that is my duty and my calling for my life. So, for now, my remedy is to continue letting the Lord sweetly break me and grow me into who I'm called to be... and I BELIEVE the rest (marriage, life, etc.) will fall into place because my God is a Huge God!
And so it remains, I'm desperately learning how to live a life of extravagantly love.
-Danielle
-------------------------------------------------------
Sometimes I get frustrated when I feel like I'm failing as a wife.
Perhaps because I've only been married 9 months I feel like I'm still trying to learn the clear difference between raising issues that concern me and nagging or just complaining.
Now, let me set the record straight. I absolutely ADORE my husband, he's wonderful in every way. I firmly believe that I have the most amazing husband in the world, sorry ladies ;) He's a firm believer, handsome, fun, crazy, exciting, a dreamer, he loves deeply, encourages me, perseverant, supportive, etc. etc. But, what I LOVE the most about him is that he is my best friend. We never get tired of spending time together and even more importantly, we shoot straight with each other. We offer advice where we think each other can improve. Merely because we believe in each others' potential!
But, I guess I just get paranoid that I'm not bringing issues into the light in the right tone or time.
And then the Lord ever so gently reminds me...
Ephesians 4:15 "Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ."
And who better to assist me in continually trying to speak the truth in love? My Savior!
....
But still... sometimes I feel so guilty when I open my mouth to voice something that I'm sure will cause tension. I hate fighting and I try to avoid it at all costs. However, in all my marriage counseling books I've read it is totally normal and HEALTHY to have appropriate conflict and disagreements... for it grows your marriage.
Romans 12: 17-18 "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone"
Clearly, we are called to live at peace with everyone. However, we all know that burying our unsolved issues brews bitterness which leads to resentment. That is why I believe it is important to have healthy conflict so then you are able to live at peace with each other.
But, what do I think is most vital in this whole issue?
Focusing on changing me.
2 Corinthians 13:5 "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you-- unless, of course, you fail the test?"
Matthew 7:15 "Do not judge lest you be judged... You hypocrite, FIRST take the log out of your OWN eye, and THEN you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye."
I'm to love and serve my husband, to pray for him, support him and encourage him. But, as far as continually working out salvation and producing an abundance of fruits of the Spirit, that is my duty and my calling for my life. So, for now, my remedy is to continue letting the Lord sweetly break me and grow me into who I'm called to be... and I BELIEVE the rest (marriage, life, etc.) will fall into place because my God is a Huge God!
And so it remains, I'm desperately learning how to live a life of extravagantly love.
-Danielle
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
