Enjoying the Journey

"Thunder Dog" - A Story of Motivating Courage

2011-09-02T16:02:00.002Z

Thunder Dog is a very interesting read. Honestly, it is not exactly what I was expecting. I found it more of a bibliography of Mr. Michael Hingson, than a full detailed story of Rosella, his seeing-eye-dog. Even still, it makes for a relaxing and motivating read. The story is centered around the 911 tragedy. The author shares with us his experience of escaping the terror of being in Tower II of the World Trade Center on 9/11, as well as his own personal struggles with 'being blind in a sight man's world.'

Micheal’s personal triumph over blindness is motivating within itself. Add to that, his escape from the Twin Towers by descending 78 floors through a stairwell, and you have a story of courage and perseverance that will warm any heart. Michael shares how his parents never saw him as handicapped or different from other children. In fact, they encouraged him to be as independent as possible. This included riding his bike down neighborhood streets, much to the dismay of his neighbors, as well as piloting a plane in later life. His parents sought for him to be accepted as any normal person. It was the era in which society placed individuals with disabilities in group homes. Thankfully, Micheal’s parents were not bullied into this system. The rest of the story tells his triumph over the mentality of the day. In the end, we find out that Michael became very successful in life.

Along with his story, Michael tells a little about the Guide Dogs that are trained to help those in need. He also shares with us about the technology that has been created to help those are blind better function in our technological age.

I would highly recommend this book, as long as one understands that it is more of a bibliography of Michael than a story about the dog 'Roselle.'

**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com blogger program in return for my honest opinion.

Book Review: "Surviving You Serengeti"

2011-07-16T18:38:00.000Z

I have just finished reading “Surviving Your Serengeti” by Stefan Swanepoel. Although this book is completely fiction, it does provide some useful tools that can help people achieve success in business or simply in attaining their own personal dreams. In this book Mr. Swanepeol uses animals and their natural gifts of survival to point out ways that we too can survive and be successful in life. The setting takes place on the savannah of East Africa, in a region called Serengeti. I found the overall message of the book excellent. Although in truth, I did not enjoy the story line. I thought it was a bit simplistic and not very entertaining. I found myself skipping along, trying to get to the point many times. The principles presented are great. The manner in which they were presented did not appeal to me personally. Here’s is an overview of the 7 strengths needed to succeed: Endurance, strategic, efficiency, enterprising, gracious, risk taking, and good communication skills. Without a doubt, each of these characteristics is required to be successful in life. Mr. Swanepoel just takes the time to elaborate on each characteristic through the life of an animal living in the animal reserves of East Africa.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertisingtoday

Money Secrets of the Amish

2011-06-27T11:58:00.000Z

“Money Secrets of the Amish” by author Lorilee Craker, is a read well worth your time and investment. The subtitle, Finding True Abundance in Simplicity, Sharing and Saving, sum up the book’s content well. Originally, I chose this book because of my love for the simplicity of the lives of the Amish and their customs. I found myself pleasantly delighted as I began to uncover the truths behind their practices.
The author goes into great detail as to how we can unclutter our own ‘fancy’ lifestyles. She shares an experiment with children and marshmallows. Above the board, this experiment seems a little childish. Once you begin applying the principles of the experiment, you discover how profound the message is: (in my words) the power of delayed gratification is great and necessary for a balanced life. This book is very in-depth in the ‘how-to’ department. She explains principles well and then offers various methods to apply these concepts into our everyday lives.
If learning how to live a balanced life, being more conscious of how you spend your resources, learning how to avoid the trap of our consumer-driven, spend until there is no more, credit dependency society interest you….then, I highly recommend this book.
In closing, I will quote from page 213 of the book: “The truth that transcends Plain and Fancy: chasing after money and things is meaningless, because the best things in life are free.”
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertisingtoday

Praise Him in Advance...

2011-06-15T12:57:00.000Z

What a morning! Some days are just too real....and no fun. Today is qualifying as one of those days. I feel somewhat like Job: "And another one came, and another came…"
We started out the morning to the sound of tear-gas exploding nearby, as the students were protesting against the University again. Next, we called the Landlord with a major electrical issue with the electrical box. He informed us that it was our responsibility to replace the part. He had already replaced it once...as if it is our fault that the parts are cheaply made and not quality, and yet very expensive. Adding to our morning of joy, we have a leak coming from the kitchen drain (outside). Thad and my husband were attempting to check into this problem, when Thad busted a major water line. It’s only 12 noon… Need I say more…
I regress to my prayer time last night....I was up on the roof, praying to Jesus about some other problems. (Before the onset of this morning’s problems) I felt like He told me to praise Him in advance! Praise Him like the problems are already solved. Give Him glory just as if I'm holding the miracles in my hand already. Dance in faith....seeing the invisible....because that is HIS reality!!!

Hebrews 11:1
"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Every day, we make a choice to give in to depression and despair or to stand up and Praise our Lord for His Sovereignty in our lives.
He's my Jehovah Jirah and I will choose to praise Him in advance!

Book Review: "Max on Life"

2011-05-28T00:27:00.002Z

I found “Max on Life” to be an enjoyable and thought provoking read. His wit and humor shine through the text, as he discusses some of life’s most challenging questions.
He addresses such issues as:
*God, Grace and why am I here?
*Conflicts, Calamities and why me?
*Prayer, Scripture and why church?
*Sex, Romance and any chance at a second chance?
*Diapers, Disagreements and hope for prodigals.
*Work, Money and where’s the lifeline?
*Cemeteries, Heaven, Hell and who goes where?
If these subtitles, actually chapter titles, attract your interest, then this book would be a definite choice for you. I immensely enjoyed reading through Max’s thoughts on the various subjects. For the most part, I found myself in agreement with his thoughts. There were a few places where he and I would disagree. Many of the questions listed in Max’s book are questions that each of us struggle with in life. We live in a real and fallen world. Sometimes, there are no easy, concrete answers. Even still, Max attempts to reach into the reader’s heart and speak truth through gentleness and love.
“Max of Life” brings a Biblical perspective to some of life’s hardest questions. I would recommend it to anyone needing a brief answer to some of the most puzzling situations we face in this world.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertisingtoday.

Book Review: "Tithing" by Douglas LeBlanc

2011-05-11T13:17:00.000Z

Tithing has been a spiritual discipline that I have practiced since my teens. My husband and I have continued this practiced throughout our 19 years of marriage.
Mr. Leblanc’s book is composed of 11 chapters. Each chapter is dedicated to one person and/or family’s story regarding their experiences in tithing. Although some of these testimonies are encouraging and uplifting, the book leaves much unsaid. There is no Biblical study on the subject. There are a few references to scripture given throughout the testimonies.
I expected the book to include testimonies regarding the blessings of following the Biblical principle of tithing. I did not expect the book to include only testimonies. If someone is looking for a study on tithing, Biblical references or examples, this book would not be my recommendation. If you only wish for a few testimonies, some of them difficult to follow, then you may enjoy this book. Personally, I do not feel that I could recommend this book to a friend for its intended purpose.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Even if you don't speak French, You'll recognize this song! :)

2011-05-07T01:33:00.002Z

SEEKING GOD'S RIGHTEOUSNESS

2011-05-05T14:41:00.000Z

1. Help me to seek You first every day and to be thankful.

2. Give me wisdom to know when I am deceived and open my heart to all truth.

3. Create in me a clean heart and renew in me a right spirit.

4. Don't let anyone lead me astray with empty philosophy and vain deceit.

5. Give me a spirit of humility.

6. Give me a strong desire for righteousness and holiness.

7. Soften my heart that I may have a teachable spirit.

8. By Your power help me to cast down all strongholds in my life.

9. Reveal the true condition of my heart and cultivate a right spirit within me.

10. Let my actions reflect Your values and not those of the world.

11. Place a burden of prayer and fasting in my heart and in my lifestyle.

12. Break me from the need to be in control that I may submit to my spiritual leaders

13. Show me when I am rebellious and do things that are contrary to Your will.

14. May I always be reminded that I will reap what I sow.

15. Help me cultivate a desire in my heart to be obedient to Your Holy Word.

‎16. Help me forgive those who hurt me and to show mercy as You have shown mercy
to me.

17. Fill my heart with peace, happiness, and joy and help me focus on heavenly things.

18. Fill me with Your goodness so that it becomes a natural way to treat others.

19. Give me strength to resist temptation and harmful habits that might control me.

20. Open my ears to Your voice as Your Spirit leads me.

21. Fill my heart with repentance for the things I have done that grieve You.

22. Please remove bitterness in my heart that causes me to harbor unforgiveness.

23. Let my words and the mediation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight.

24. Please remove the pride that keeps me from seeing myself as You see me.
Give me the desire to obey You and the power to please You.

26. Help me to bless You at all times and let Your praises continually be in my mouth.

27. Because there is power in words, help me to speak only good things.

28. Help me to never grieve Your Spirit.

29. Empower me with Your strength so that the enemy's tactics won't entice me.

30. Help me to always know and recognize truth.

31. Transform me into Your likeness.

~UPCI Ladies Ministries

This video is not for the weak willed....

2011-05-04T14:41:00.001Z

It's been a really long time since I've read or watched something that had the effect on me, which this video of Bro. David Wilkerson did. And I accept full responsibility for this. It has been my lack of concern, my busyness in ministry, my pre-occupation with more pressings matters, my attitudes....

I fear that I have become numb to the eternal state of those around me. This scares me!!!

Although Bro. Wilkerson and I might disagree on some points, one thing is for sure. He is very correct in that we are not experiencing ANGUISH over the lost anymore. Our society has turned many churches into: feel good, make me happy, entertain me religion.

I'm scared. I'm scared for my children. I'm scared for my family. I'm scared for my friends. I'm scared for my neighbors...

Truthfully, it is ME that I am most concerned with. What has happened? When did I stop experiencing ANGUISH in my prayer life?

...Lots of programs, lots of teaching...good things...But, where is the ANGUISH in my prayers?

I don't think you can watch this video without questioning your own personal prayer life.
And I am left with this conclusion: The Church of the Living God needs to find ANGUISH again!

"Easter Sing-A-Thon"

2011-04-25T21:59:00.000Z

Today was the Youth Division's Easter "Sing-A-Thon." Several church youth groups came together for a time of singing, preaching and worshipping. The power of the Lord was strong as each group sang their praises to Jesus. There was time for games, as well. The grand finale was the "Youth Offering."
Hope you enjoy the pictures!

How Real Are We Anyway?

2011-04-24T23:15:00.001Z

We are just returning from Azove, Benin. This region held an Evangelism Seminar. The local churches went out in groups, door knocking during the mornings, Holy Ghost services at night. Each night was a packed house with plenty of Holy Ghost Power to go around! My husband was invited to do the nightly preaching.

With great joy, I listened to him preaching in French. You see, I know like no one else knows what a struggle this has been for him. I've felt his frustration. I've watched him pray and seek the face of God for help. And this weekend, I sat and watched and thought...."Jesus, you're doing it! He's getting there!"

The pastors had brought in an interpreter who could speak both French and English. My heart was bursting with pride as I watched my husband refuse to take the easy way out. He pushed forward and preached in French, even though, he could have easily and more fluently switched to English.

Jesus proved himself strong!!!....He really doesn't need us anyway....we're privileged participants in His plan. At the end of the weekend, 25 had received the Holy Ghost!!! And...I could not count the hands that went up in testimony to having been healed by the Lord!!!

Do you ever look at others and think, "They have it made." From the outside, we're quick to make judgments regarding each other. I'm guilty. Are you?

My husband and I had the first weekend alone (because we traveled alone to Benin) in a very long time. The kids stayed home and we made our voyage alone. I didn't intend for the weekend to turn out the way it did. But, as we were alone, free from interruption (we have 3 kids, you know), we began to really talk.

We opened up about our frustrations, our feelings of inadequacy, our passion for the calling to Africa, our lives. We spent literal hours talking....crying and praying together.....(oops! hope that wasn't TMI). We discussed our hopes, dreams, and desires. We talked about where we are now: emotionally, spiritually, in knowledge of the Word of God, and where we'd like to be. We made plans as to how to reach these goals.

At times, it was gut- wrenching. I shared with him my confusion and frustration, pains and hurts. I allowed it all to flow forth in raw-honesty.....Sobs poured forth from depths of my soul.

In turn, he shared with me. After some time, I questioned him. "How do you keep it all together?" His answer did not come at that moment.....

Later that night, while praying with seekers in the altar, he came and stood beside me. With tears in his eyes, he said...."This is how I keep it altogether. I focus on the people."

When all the obstacles, fears, doubts, frustrations, stare us down......We must look beyond and see the faces, calling out to us. Will you come? Will you come?

It's all about the people........

Transparency

2011-04-18T19:46:00.001Z

Tonight, I am sitting out on the roof. It is a somewhat cloudy, slightly muggy, and very dark night. Although I can see a few stars, for the most part, it’s too hazy. In the background, a loudspeaker is sounding the call to prayer for the muslims. Down below, a few motos and cars are passing in the street. I can hear the soft chatter of ladies walking with babies on their backs and small children held in their arms. Light aluminates from across the street. It is the tailor. He has his door open and I can see his charcoal iron sitting in its stand, hot and ready for use. Occasionally, I feel a slight mist in the air. Not sure if it's rain, or perhaps water being carried in the wind from the ocean. The moon is barely visible. It appears to be squinting its eye tonight behind the clouds.

I feel peace tonight. Incredible peace. Peace that I cannot put into words. It is as if something has happened, of which I do not know. A release......As if the pressure valve of a canister has been released. The contents now settled. I do not know what has transpired. I only know that I feel the peace. I'm so thankful for the peace.

This place I have described to you, it is my place. My life. Others may testify that they are where they are in life because it is where God has placed them. Without a doubt. I am here first, because I know the Lord has called us to this continent. There is no denying that. But, also, I love this place. I love the people. I love its sounds. I love its smells. I love its food. I love its culture. I am so blessed to be allowed to share in a world that is not my own. No, this world is very different from my world.

Sometimes, I miss home too. I miss my family and the special time we share together. It seems so ordinary and common when we're together. But, when we're apart, I experience a deep sense of loss. I miss my home church and my church family. I miss the fellowship and love we share. I miss the air conditioning, padded pews, carpeted isles, top-notch sound equipment, preaching that relates to my life, my culture. Guess many will misunderstand that statement. Do I leave it or delete it? I miss my friends. I miss our chats, eating meetings, loafing for an entire day and doing nothing of grand importance. You know what? I miss regular rain. I get tired of the dry season. It last for too long. I want rain. I long for rain. It troubles me when dark clouds roll in, but no rain follows. Why? Usually, where dark storm clouds are found, there's rain. Not so here. Yeh, I really miss regular seasons of rain.

The moon has finally peeked out from behind the clouds a little. I can see that it's a full moon. It wants to shine brightly and light up this dark night. It really wants me to know that it is whole and complete, even when it is barely visible and covered by clouds.

In the recesses of my memory, I hear Grandma Thelma singing to Baby Hannah..."I see the moon and the moon sees me. God loves the moon and God loves me."

Lord Help Me See....The Blessing in the Thorn.

2011-04-17T23:23:00.000Z

Bangui, CAR

2011-03-30T19:11:00.002Z

Where do we begin in recounting our trip to Bangui, CAR? Although there are many things we might recount, truly the most important was that Bangui felt like ‘home’ from the moment our feet stepped on the soil!!! We couldn't help but laugh, after returning to Togo.....One of our friends, having viewed our pictures, said, "This place even looks like y'all..." God doesn't make mistakes when He calls!
We found the CAR to possess an incredible natural beauty. We stayed in Bangui, the capital city. Our guest-house was a block away from the Oubangui River. The river runs through a small mountainous area. So, we had a beautiful river view and small mountains surrounding us. As it is very tropical being so near the equator, everything was a lovely shade of green, even in the dry season. Standing on the banks of the river, we could look across and see the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). If you would like to see this, please view our pictures: http://dananbenson.blogspot.com.
Our visit coincided with the soon approaching rainy season. The temperature was around 95 F for most of our time there. Yes, it was hot and the humidity was high! The electricity was off most of the day and we only had a fan at night. We decided that when we do move to Bangui, a good generator is a must! In the end, we concluded that the trip was worth every drop of sweat! :)
For the most part, the people in town are kind, but distant. No doubt, this is from years of difficulties in their land. We were not discouraged by this, as we know that the ‘Love of Jesus’ can tear down walls of fear, uncertainty and insecurity in an instant! We (Bro. Adams) did encounter pick-pockets on two different occasions. We learned quickly not to walk down the street with anything in our hands or a backpack on our backs. One young taxi driver was so beside himself with Hannah sitting in his back seat, that he could not stop turning backwards to look at her. As a result, he rear-ended another taxi at a traffic stop. Here in Togo, that would have meant a major scene! Not so in Bangui~ No one got out of their cars, no one even acted as if they noticed the big pop! ...lol... Later that day, we were walking on the street and this same taxi driver passed. We fell over laughing as he was hanging out his window waving at Hannah! There are so many funny stories I could recount like these. Every day was an adventure in travel!
Onto the calling and burden that the Lord has given us:
The hunger in the Central Africans for understanding the Word of God was incredible! They absorbed each day of teaching with great anticipation, begging for more! Bro. and Sis. Adams have established a very strong foundation and working relationship with the pastors and churches in the CAR. Many of these pastors are independent. There were approximately 15 pastors attending the Bible School Training each night. Truly, the field is wide-open!
Besides the Doctrinal and Bible School Subjects being taught, we had two evangelistic services. No one received the Holy Ghost in these two services, although great strides were made in helping the Central Africans release themselves in prayer. Considering the strong Roman Catholic influence on the churches, this was a true break-through! We are so very thankful to the Lord for His power to overcome tradition!
Early Sunday Morning, we were blessed to attend and participate in the Baptism of 8 news souls for the Kingdom of God! Again, you can see pictures of my husband and Pastor Gabriel baptizing in the Oubangui River on our blog, listed above. On our last morning there, Bro. Adams taught on New Birth Experience in one of the independent churches. Following his teaching, there were two more members who came forth desiring to be baptized by emersion in the Name of Jesus! We simply cannot convey to you the desire of the people to understand the Word of God and how it applies to their lives.
The Louisiana District recently donated funds for the churches in the CAR. Because of their generous giving, we were able to help our three established churches put cement on their floors and walls (the walls are red, clay brick) and also paint. This was an incredible encouragement and blessing to our UPCI works there!!! Thank you, Louisiana District UPCI, Bro. Cox, Bro. Harper Bro. Day, and everyone who sacrificed in the giving of these funds. You have reached and touched the lives of many!!!
As much as we would like to make a move into the CAR this term, we realize it is not financially possible. Therefore, we trust the Lord that we will be able to make at least two more trips before we return home for deputation at the end of 2012. We plan to teach Bible School Courses and also hold Evangelistic Services during these trips.
Please, continue to pray for the work in the Central African Republic. The Lord is moving mightily in Centrafrique (French for Central African Republic)! Thank you for helping us to go and work with the Central Africans. Every step we take, you are beside us!!!
Love and Blessings,
The Michael Benson Family
Mike, Danan, Hannah, Thad and Micah

Dry Places

2011-01-25T21:46:00.001Z

Parched ground, barrenness, stickery shrubs, and a hot, dry wind.........Sounds like an oasis, does it not? It's highly unlikely that anyone would choose to plan their next vacation to this inviting place.

2010 was a very difficult year for me. I've talked with numerous people and everyone pretty much seems to agree....2010 was rough! I have to tell you that I was thrilled to see 2011 crest into view! I anxiously counted the days until I could throw the 2010 calendar away. Finished...done...2010 was finally over!

I know you're wondering, what was so terrible about 2010? Well, it had nothing to do with the year itself. In fact, looking at outward circumstances, most would say I should have loved 2010. After all, God performed a financial miracle for our family and made a way for all of us to visit home after 2 years on the field. The Benson5 were healthy, happy, wise and all that stuff....So, what was my problem?

2010 was a year that the Lord chose to walk me into the desert. My soul, that had grown so accustom to the well watered plains, silently watched as every drop of spiritual moisture dried up....leaving behind dry, broken, blistering places, where once water flowed freely.

Did you notice my choice of words earlier? I said, "the Lord chose to walk me into the desert." Yes, I really believe that the Lord led me into an incredibly painful place. A place where I had many, many questions, and little to no answers.

I have to tell you that back last February or March, the Lord did prepare me that this was coming. He basically said, "To die, is to live." When I received this word from the Lord during my prayer time, I told my husband about it. I asked, "Do you think I'm going to die?"

Well, in my heart, I didn't feel like I was preparing for a physical death. Day after day, I would receive scriptures regarding dying...the message was clear. "It's not I who live, but Christ who lives in me." (Galatians 2:20) I wasn't dying physically. But, the only way for Christ to LIVE in my life, was for me to DIE to myself....my thoughts....my desires...my fears...my insecurity...my pride...die to my, my, my........and live in His, His, His.........

Painful, traumatic, uncertain, fearful, I can use all of these adjectives to describe 2010.

2011 has arrived, and with it, I am beginning to feel small droplets of waters flowing down into the parched soul, once again. My spiritual eyes see a little green sprout barely poking through the cracks in the hardened soil.

There is a transformation taking place. There is new growth. There's the smell of freshness in the air. A new season is dawning... I realize, I'm not the person I was a year ago. My perspective has changed. My focus is much sharper. My spiritual senses much more alert.
The purpose has been clearly defined.
The plan and purpose is not mine...it's His. The dry place taught me...
"It's all His." And….This has taken root into depths I never knew possible.
Dry Places.............

Defining Moments of My Life

2011-01-12T14:55:00.005Z

Defining Moments...What are they?

To me, they are simply those times in my life that make me STOP!

Defining Moments are the huge stop-signs of life. Do I continue in my current direction or do I change course? Am I who, what, where I should be? Sometimes, these defining moments touch us in such a way that we know, from that moment on, we will never be the same person we were prior to our STOP-DEFINING-MOMENT.

Do you ever sit and think about times in your life that changed you or your direction forever? Lately, I've been thinking back over some of these STOP moments in my own life....(The following list is by no means exhaustive of my moments, but some of the most significant ones.)

1. At age 7, hit by a truck. Survived and recovered and realized that God had a plan for my life.

2. Standing at my rural bus-stop alone in the early morning, somewhere around age 12. Realized that the man who walked up and had stopped, meant me harm. It appeared to me that he pulled out a switch-blade knife. I took off running back home. I knew there were real angels protecting me!

3. Age 19....depression so great I did not want to exit my room, eat, or interact with people. I covered the curtains with heavy blankets so no light could come in. All the while praying, that if my heart was right with God, He would take me to Heaven where I could feel whole again.

4. Age 20...Heard a message on the "Rich Young Ruler" that changed my life forever. I received a power from God like I had never experienced before (Holy Ghost). Never again, would I be the same! I would give up whatever the Lord asked, to follow Him and do His will.

5. Age 22....Married the 'man of my dreams,' literally! I learned from him how to have a deeper and more meaningful walk with Christ. He taught me the importance of commitment.

6. Age 23...Heard the voice of God speak to me through an anointed speaker at Louisiana Ladies Conference, almost fell off my pew because the power of God was so strong on me.... "Will you give up your dreams for My dreams?"

7. Gave birth to three precious children. Experienced one miscarriage. Realized that life truly is a gift!

8. Missionary service at our home church in 2000, God asked us, "Are you Willing to go?"

9. Age 29-30....Driving across the twin-spans to school in New Orleans, listening to a tape by my pastor at that time, Bro. Jonathan Suber, grave grief overtook me. Almost to the point that I couldn't drive for the tears. The Lord spoke to me..."You're pursuing your dreams. What about Mine?" I resigned from school that week with a 4.0 GPA, mid-semester. I could not take another day being out of the will of God! Within a few short months, we were on the foreign mission field of Madagascar.

10. 2003...Sitting at my home computer, looking at missionary websites...saw a picture of the first baptism of the UPCI in Central African Republic. Read the following words:
"There's no one to go. Will you go?" ......... We answered, "yes!"

11. Hurrican Katrina in 2005....I realized that all earthly-security can be lost in an instant. The safest security is faith placed in Jesus! He will provide and care for His own, when all other systems fail.

12. School of Missions 2007....Sis. Vesta Mangun prayed for me and spoke words of faith over me. She gave me some words of wisdom that I'm still trying to live today....

"Just love people, Honey. Just love people."

Mountains and Valleys

2011-01-10T23:06:00.000Z

I read a very interesting quote today: ~ Mountaintops inspire leaders but valleys mature them. ~Winston Churchill
Ever wonder why life seems to be somewhat of a cycle? One day you're on top of the world and all is great. Shortly thereafter, you wonder why you even exist...lol Okay, maybe I'm a little dramatic. But, you get the idea!
There are days when I feel the power of God so strong in my life. I know the passion, the burden, and I feel the fire. It's on those days that I'm ready to tackle the world. I want to preach it loud and strong, as if I could reach the world all by myself! You know what? I love those days!!!
Unfortunately, there are more days of the 'valley' than the 'mountaintop.' These valley days are when I find myself questioning everything in my life, from my mothering skills to the will of God for my life. I'm snappy with the kids and restless in my spirit. I can't find contentment with any thought pattern I try to follow. I worry...Am I pleasing God? Does what I do make any impact? I think back over past decisions and wonder; did I do the right thing? And the list could go on.......
After having read Mr. Churchill's quote, I thought, you know what? That makes sense! It's on those days when we feel at the top of world that the anointing flows. New ideas and dreams are born in our hearts and minds. We feel successful in our life. It is a very powerful time in our lives.
And then, I'm thinking....You Know, it is in the valley, when I'm down on myself, questioning my thoughts, actions, decisions, ect.....Those are the times when I really get quiet and sort through my thoughts. I start prioritizing and setting things in order. I'm not so random and careless. But, I'm thinking things through. I'm praying, seeking Jesus, to make sure I'm on the right track.
The valley is certainly not the exciting, adrenalin filled time. It doesn't bring the thoughts of great achievement and success to us. I don't find myself giving myself a big HIGH 5 or PAT ON THE BACK.
No. Instead, the valley is the place of growth and development. It's the place of pruning. It can be a painful place because it is the place of reality. It's where our eyes are opened and we see life for what it really is.....It's the place that assures each of us that we're human. No matter how great or special we feel on the mountain, the valley teaches us that we are but clay, vessels in the making, so imperfect and yet carefully formed in the Master's hand.
Whether you're on the mountain, dreaming dreams, seeing visions, and feeling the power of the anointing........or..........you're down in the valley, feeling overwhelmed by life, decisions, expectations, burdens, ect.....The Good News Is:
We’re still on the Potter's Wheel and He is using both the mountains and valleys to make us into the vessels that He has chosen us to be! If you’re in the valley today, Hold On! The mountaintop is up next!
Be Blessed~ Danan

Welcome To Togo, Amber!

2011-01-10T22:50:00.000Z

Time has flown! Where did it go? My last post was back in July of 2010. Here we are in 2011! Wow~ I'm sorry for having neglected the blog for so long. I'm going to do better! Today, I got inspired by our new AIMer, Amber Davenport. She has started a blog. I enjoyed it so much that I decided to get active on my blog again. (Notice Amber's blog link in my 'link' section.)
Another blog entry is on its way....

Welcome to Togo, Amber!

Teaching in the Last Few Weeks...

2010-07-26T22:00:00.001Z

Benson Family

2010-07-26T21:25:00.001Z

A new photo of the Benson5. Everybody's growing up!

Living the Life~

2010-06-27T22:29:00.003Z

This weekend I have pondered how truly blessed I am. I'm living the life I've always dreamed of. I'm happy and content...right where the Lord has me at this moment in time. I have more visions and dreams for the future. But for now, I'm right where I need to be, living the current dream.

I recently read back over an article that I had written some time back in 2002 or so. I wrote of the pain, hardships and lessons that we were passing through. I wrote of longing for the day that I would live my dream...Time passed and the Lord was faithful through every step of it. Today, I'm happily living the dream that I once only dreamed of....serving the Lord in Africa...

As I read back over my thoughts from some years ago, I couldn't help but feel the pain and grief that had so covered the lives of my husband and myself during those difficult years. Years of not understanding. Years of questioning. Years of doors shutting or worse, the Lord refusing to give us the peace to walk through those doors we saw as open.

Looking back...All I can say is: Jesus is a faithful friend, who truly knows what is best from the beginning to the end.

Have we reached the ultimate goal? Absolutely not~ Instead, the dream has expanded and multiplied itself. This dream has given birth to more dreams. One thing I have found most true over the years is that the Lord's plans for our lives are much more grand and incredible than anything we could ever dream or attain, left to our own thoughts and abilities. His strength is perfect when our strength is gone~
The journey continues, growing every day. New doors, ideas, desires, inspirations come...and yet the message remains the same. Jesus the same yesterday, today and forever!
Hang on through the dark clouds, for soon to be revealed is the Son, and He shining brightly on your path.

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-08T20:49:00.003Z

Just wanted to wish my Mom a very Happy Mother's Day! You're the best and I don't know what I would do without you!!! Thank you for just being "you" every day. Day in and day out....you're always there...always strong....Your the GREATEST MOM!!!

~The New Year Is Here~

2010-01-03T14:54:00.002Z

Welcome to 2010! I am really feeling that this year is going to be a great year for the Benson Family and the Church, as a whole! I'm so excited to be living in this time.

Here are just a couple of great testimonies:

Last Sunday, we were out at a village church. A blind lady, who was visiting the church for the second time, came to the altar and received the Holy Ghost! This Sunday, our Hannah taught the Sunday School Children, at the same church, in French. This was Hannah's first time to teach in French! My husband is teaching and preaching in French, also. And...I intend to begin teaching in French in January. It's an incredible Blessing!

When we arrived in Togo a year ago, we hardly spoke any French. One year later, the Lord has allowed us to progress to the point of teaching in French. How blessed we are!

We are expecting more healings, deliverances, and salvation in 2010. The Lord is at work here in Togo!

I pray this blessings upon you in 2010~
Ephesians 3:20 - "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us." KJV

~A New Year Ahead of Us~~

2009-12-30T16:38:00.002Z

Can you believe it? 2009 is almost gone. In less than 48 hours we'll say 'Good-Bye' to the year of 2009 and 'Hello' to 2010. Wow!

Today, I've been pondering....What does 2010 hold in store for the Benson Family? There are many new challenges facing us....New directions to take... And what about 2009? What can I count as accomplishments?

I've been re-reading a book that I read some years back, "The Life God Blesses" by Gordon McDonald. He speaks a great deal about the 'weightier' matters in life, mainly the 'soul' issues. You see, it really doesn't matter if our life is trimmed in all the delicacies of this earth. If there is no weight, no substance, no measure of balance in our life, then surely our best made plans stand the possiblity of perishing without seeing success.

What I'm trying to convey is that we've got to have it together on the inside. The 'real' us...The part of us that will live on through eternity. The part of us that no one truly knows, except the Lord. The part of us that was designed as a secret place in which we can hide and commune with our Maker...Our Soul...

I want to make 2010 a 'Soul Year' for me. I want to make sure that I am properly balanced so my life can remain stable. Life is full of storms and disturbances. But, a well built, evenly-weighted sailboat will always right itself, regardless the storm.

I pray my life to be...well-built on prayer, well-designed by my Lord Jesus, and well-balanced with depth so that I shall be victorious, regardless the storms that blow my way.

Oh Lord Jesus, help me today1 Help me to be sold out to you....Committed to Your cause...and in love with My Journey....

Enjoying the Journey,
Danan

A Few Christmas Pictures

2009-12-27T16:25:00.002Z

They say a picture is worth a thousand words....To our family and friends, whom we'd love to have shared this Christmas with, we offer the next best thing...pictures! And we thank you for sending your pictures to us. Somehow, seeing you in the pictures makes you feel much closer.

Hugs and Love to Everyone!

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T13:43:00.002Z

Just checking in with my blogging friends~

I'm praying that you have a wonderful Christmas, filled with the joy and power of the Holy Ghost!

We are having a relaxing day. Hannah is in the kitchen, baking up a storm. She's loving it! Tonight, we'll host a Christmas Party for our Missionary Community.

Also, today, Hannah and I took an imaginary trip home. We shopped at all of our favorite stores and ate at all of our favorite restaurants. Afterwards, we were thoroughly exhausted! We landed at Nana and Pop's house. Snuggled up in blankets in front of the fireplace and watched football games. All of the family was there. The house was full of good food and good times......Then, we returned to reality....but, the imaginary trip was much fun!

Sending you all lots of Hugs and Love this Holiday Season~

Christmas Blessings

2009-12-21T11:47:00.004Z

I'm sitting in Sunny Lome' this morning thinking about all the blessing in my life! For instance, last night I had a great connection with Skype and was able to chat with my Mom for an hour. Wow! How I enjoyed that! It was certainly a rarity...

Yes, there are sacrifices being made. I miss my family. I miss our Holiday traditions. I cry when I look at their pictures posted on FB. I'm human.....

Thinking back 2000 years ago.... There was another man who chose to leave His home in Heaven. He chose to give his life for a cause. No one forced him to leave. He chose this road.... Lonely, I'm sure He often thought of another world, other than the one He was walking in.... And yet, He chose to remain committed to His Cause!

So, in transparent honesty... Yes~ I'm lonely for my family and friends. I'm missing this special time of year with them. But, there's no place I'd rather be, than where I am. I'm committed to the cause. I love Jesus and my life here in Togo! I think that's a REAL Christmas Blessing!!!
At the same time, I think it's okay to acknowledge my love and homesickness for my family, friends and home during this Most Wonderful Christmas Season............

Love you all~ Wishing You a Very Merry Christmas!!!

Teaching on the Importance of Prayer~

2009-12-17T11:50:00.001Z

Hannah's 17th B-Day!

2009-12-17T11:30:00.000Z

Togo Bible School Graduation 2009

2009-12-17T11:16:00.000Z

Thad's 14th Birthday!

2009-12-02T19:51:00.000Z

Benin's National Conference '09

2009-08-29T20:26:00.002Z

Wow! How times flies...
I just realized that I hadn't updated my blog in over a month. Here are some pictures of the Benin National Conference. This is a bordering country to Togo. 186 people received the Holy Ghost during this conference!!!! To God be the Glory!!!

Sunday School Time

2009-07-20T11:44:00.002Z

Some pictures from this past Sunday...Me teaching, African Worship, Hannah with Lydia (Pastor Hugo's little girl...cutie!).

Bible School

2009-07-11T17:30:00.002Z

Here are a few pictures of the progression of the building of our UPCI Bible School here in Togo. Bro. Adam's is working hard and things are looking good!

Fourth of July

2009-07-04T18:57:00.003Z

This is part of the American Community here in Togo. We may be far from our Mother-Land, but our hearts still know how to celebrate her BIG day!!! Happy 4th to all...
God Bless America, Land that I Love!

Openings and Closings...

2009-06-08T23:08:00.005Z

Some doors open and some doors close...
It's not always for us to understand.
Only to trust.
There are some doors I would choose not to close, but the choice isn't always mine.
So, I accept His will...for He knows the way I take. And when He hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.
I will trust in the darkness, for He will be the guiding light.
He understands me...He chooses me....I am not my own.
I will trust in the shining rays of sunlight....for He commands them to dance about me...inspiring, lifting and encouraging me.
Yea...He orders my steps.
And so, I must trust.
Heaven and earth may pass away...men's decisions and actions with them...
But, the WORD OF GOD shall endure forever.
He does not change and His truth remains.
He is stability and a sure foundation.
Though all around me be shaken....I will choose to standfast in Him.
He is the guardian and keeper of my soul...
Tonight, I rest in the assurance...I am His and He is mine.

The Howell's Visit

2009-06-04T22:03:00.002Z

Bro. and Sis. Howell came to Togo last week. We so enjoyed their ministry and company! Here are a few pictures from their visit. Bro. Howell's sister, Royce, whom he hadn't seen in about 20 years, also accompanied he and Sis. Howell on their visit here. Royce is precious and we enjoyed our time with her, as well!

One picture to take note of is Micah. He is doing the 'Chicken Dance.' I just about crack my side everytime the start this dance. But, the Togolais love it!!!...and so do Thad and Micah...

Love to all...Nana Barbara here are some pictures for you. Denise called and told me that you weren't happy because we were not keeping our blogs updated...so sorry!

School Time

2009-05-16T22:59:00.004Z

I thought you, my friends, might enjoy seeing where we spend 5 days a week. Here are some pictures of the University where we attend French language classes. Hope you like viewing 'our world' and it gives you a little more insight into our daily life.

Sorry that I haven't updated the blog in a few weeks. We've been without internet for over two weeks. And now, it is only coming and going...

Much Love to All...Danan

Having Fun!

2009-05-02T19:27:00.000Z

Just some fun pictures I wanted to share...

Thoughts from my heart...

2009-04-27T00:30:00.002Z

So often I post pictures and events from the day on this blog. Very seldom to I ever really sit down and write out my feelings. Perhaps, I give the impression that I might live in a 'perfect world,' problem and worry free. But, such is not the case....

Tonight, as I sat looking through pictures from the past, my eyes fell upon a photo that brought back painful memories. It was one of the most unpleasant experiences I've encountered in the last several years. I was offended and left wounded. Now, I would think that after all the GREAT memories I cherish in my heart, this one bad experience would not haunt me so. And yet it does. Anytime something triggers my mind back to this point in time, sadness enters.

Why is it that one negative action can replay over and over again in our minds? I forget so much on a daily basis. I have to be reminded what my plans are for the day, homework assignments......and yet, this one very brief span of time will pop up in my mind at the most ridiculous times.

Was it that the offense was so horrible. Absolutely not! By most folks standards, it would sound quite minor. Perhaps, it was because I held this person in such high esteem.....maybe I had put too much confidence in who I thought they were. Could it be that reality was so different from my visions, that it simply overwhelmed me?

Looking back....pondering...thinking...Did I try too hard? Did I come across too eager? We will never know....

Time will pass, I pray this memory will eventually fade. But, for tonight, it's real...and so is the pain...

Just Me...Danan

Oh, Rats!

2009-04-24T15:07:00.004Z

AN AFRICAN RAT ANYONE??? Thad and Joseph caught and killed this rat as it ran climbed over our wall, via a vine, and into our yard. (You should be able to click on these pictures and enlarge them.)

These pics are various views main streets in Lome', Togo.

Beach Fun...Beach Bums

2009-04-17T23:54:00.000Z

Just wanted to share our day of 'fun in the sun' with you....

The Early Rains

2009-04-16T11:13:00.003Z

The rains have finally begun...

I took this picture this morning,looking down from our roof onto the street below.

Now to some, excitement over rain might not sound like such a big deal. But here in Lome', the months of March and April, leading up to the 'rainy season', are suffering hot with the humidity at its highest. Simply put, "It's miserable!"

For the past two days, we have begun to receive the early rains. After the rain, which would remind you of a hurricane, the cooler weather sets in for the day. When I say 'cooler' , I mean less than 100*F.

AHHHHH....I'm so thankful for the rain!

****We have received word that Togo is experiencing some power struggles within the government. Please, pray with us for political stability. These problems can escalate overnight*****

Happy Birthday, Jaydie!!!

2009-04-08T20:14:00.002Z

Today we celebrated Jaydie's 23rd Birthday!!! We had a blast...After a feast at Jaydie's favorite French Restaurant, we returned home to enjoy cake, ice cream and coffee. A phone call to the Adam's was in order so they could join in the fun via computer. We finished our fun-packed day by going to play with the AOG Missionary Smith's pet monkey...

We had a blast sharing your B-Day with you, Jaydie....Much Love and Birthday Blessings!!!

Some Days Are Just Like That!

2009-04-05T00:13:00.009Z

Pic #1...Hannah getting her hair braided...ummmm...
Pic #2...Hannah got her 'do'
Pic #3...Hannah, Jaydie and Charity (seamstress)
PIc #4...Hannah, Jaydie and some of their recently purchased fabric

I have to say that Friday turned out to be a bad hair day for Hannah and an even worse 'seamstress' day for Jaydie.

Hannah has been wanting to get her hair braided. I caved and Friday she found a hairdresser to come over and braid her hair. After about three hours of severe head trauma from the tight braiding, Hannah asked for Tylenol and Advil. At the completion, she was not happy. Her white scalp shining through did not give her the look she longed for...enjoy the pics...the hair didn't make the day. Jaydie and I assisted Hannah in the 'braid removal' last night. Please note. Hannah is much happier today having her full head of hair back!

Onto to Jaydie...
Jaydie went to great lengths to find and purchase this beautiful material a few weeks back. She commissioned our seamstress (yes...you know the one) to make her a dress. She even showed the seamstress the exact dress she wanted....
Well...poor Jaydie....the seamstress showed up last night with the 'new' dress in hand...I laughed my head off....Believe me when I tell you it hung all over poor Jaydie and looked like it came out of the 'Grandma Collection 1950.' Jaydie's reply...."you win some, you lose some!" She's definitely called to be a missionary! She took it all in stride. Put it in her over night bag and smiled like she had the greatest treasure in the world...

The seamstress also brought back my new dress...beautiful...just couldn't get it over my hips...passed it down to Hannah...all is not lost!

....I love Africa!......

Just Keep Praising Him!

2009-03-31T22:50:00.003Z

Come join us for another Holy Ghost filled service this past Sunday with Bro. Stephan. We had 3 receive the Holy Ghost and 9 testified of their healings in Jesus Name!
Thank you for stopping by to share in our excitement of what the Lord is doing here in Togo!

What did we do today???

2009-03-28T19:40:00.002Z

This is a 'no account' Saturday...We've done nothing! Just lazed around all day, playing on the internet,calling friends on Skype, playing games...watching DVD's and that's about it!

Now, don't we wish these days came around more than once every 6 months or so!!! Hope your day was a great one!

Come Join Us At Church Today!

2009-03-22T18:04:00.002Z

Sometimes pictures are worth a thousand words...
Hope your Sunday was blessed and filled with the joy of the Lord!

West African Dogs!

2009-03-14T16:39:00.002Z

These two bad boys may belong to American's....but they are truly West African. Everyday between the hours of noon and 3pm you can find these boys resting....you can take the boys away from the West Africans, but you can't take West Africa out of the boys!!!

Micah's 10th Birthday!

2009-03-09T17:29:00.003Z

This past Saturday, we celebrated Micah's 10th birthday. We are blessed in Togo to have many Americans working here, either in ministry or embassy positions. As a group we decided to begin a Bible Study. From this time of fellowship each week, we developed some great friendships. All of the children in these pictures are Americans. You can see that Micah is deprived for friendship...ha!
Believe me, he loves his African friends, also. But, picking and choosing who would get an invitation was too difficult. So, we stuck with the American community for the B-Day Party! Also, Hannah and Jaydie teach these same kids Sunday School during our Bible Study each week. Isn't that great!!!

Hope you enjoy the show. We had pizza, popcorn, cake, ice cream...and tons of fun!!!

Good Things Happening Here...Sunday Services!

2009-03-08T17:09:00.005Z

Greetings in Jesus Name to all of our Dear Friends!

We wanted to give you a quick update on how the Lord is blessing here in Togo. We are so thankful for all the Lord's blessings!

*We have now been in French Language School for 2 months. All is going well, although we still have far to go. They tell us to expect 9 months before we will feel comfortable with French.

*Last Sunday we were in service with Bro. Hugo, one of our pastors. Bro. Hugo's eye had been injured a few weeks back while riding his motorcycle. Something flew into his eye and caused it to swell shut with great pain and intense sensitivity to light. While Bro. Benson was preaching, he drew a circle in the dirt with his foot and stood on the circle. He continued to speak about "standing on your faith." Bro. Hugo, who was interpreting for him, did the same. Bro. Hugo testified that as he stepped into his circle of faith, the pain left his eye and he was able to take his sun glasses off! Isn't the Lord wonderful!!!

*The lady in the picture was a first time visitor. She received the Holy Ghost on her first visit!

*I (Danan) have been taking blood pressure medication for about 3 years. High blood pressure runs on both sides of my family. While on deputation, I continually prayed for my healing of high blood pressure. I would always tell the Lord..."Lord, you know that I don't want to be dependent on medication while in Africa." Well, deputation passed and I still had to take medication. Onto now....for the last couple of weeks, I've been feeling pretty wiped out and not very energetic. So, I started checking my blood pressure in the mornings and at night. Would you believe that it was super low? I have been off the medication for the last week and my blood pressure has been at normal range or below at every checking. I'm so thankful for the Lord answering my prayers!!!

Although we are many miles apart, we want you to know that we cherish your love, friendship, prayers and support! You have blessed us more than we can ever convey to you!

"White Man's Potato"

2009-03-01T00:48:00.002Z

This was too funny not to share...

Today, we decided to grill and have mashed potatoes. Mike asked the guard to go down the street and purchase some potatoes from the market. He gave him the money and thought no more about it. A short while later, Joseph (the guard) return with APPLES!

My husband asked, "Joseph, why did you get apples?" Joseph replied, "These are white-man's potatoes!"

Now, Joseph speaks both French and English. My husband spoke to him in English. Go figure how he got it so messed up. But, in French...the word for apples is 'pomme.' The word for potato is 'pomme de terre.' But, in ENGLISH....'apples' and 'potatoes' aren't even close!

We got a huge laugh out of this one...one more day in West Africa....

Curtain Saga Update

2009-02-28T17:13:00.004Z

I thought I'd add a couple of pictures to give you some closure in the 'curtain saga.' Don't look too closely at the pictures or you will find problems in the finished product. I just decided that they're only curtains and I will accept them for what they are. They do insure privacy. And really, that is all that matters anyway! smiles......

Family Fun Pics!

2009-02-21T18:09:00.003Z

The Curtain Catastrophe

2009-02-20T17:58:00.006Z

The Curtain Catastrophe hit the Benson home today. What can I say? It has just been 'one of those days/weeks.' I had purchased material for curtains for the living room and dining room. You cannot believe how expensive this type of stuff is here! A couple of weeks ago I had the seamstress, who sews for me and Hannah, to come and measure for the curtains. She took the material and was on her happy way...

She returned today with the curtains....

Some were not wide enough to cover the window. The stitching was uneven on all of them...I had asked for straight panels, nothing fancy. I guess she wanted to impress me. She made the window curtain one solid panel with an upside down V in it and a rose at the top. Now, this particular material was red. She put orange lining behind it! And of course the lining shows in the V's. It was bad~

You can only imagine how I was feeling on the 'inside.' I really just wanted to break down and cry as I look upon the mess. But, she is a young girl in one of our churches and I didn't want to offend her or the Pastor's wife with her. This seamstress has always done great work in the past. I was truly shocked!

Long story short, we went back to the merchant and purchase 8 more meters of the green material for the living room, so she could try and fix these curtains. What a day!

Needless to say, I have been in one of my solitude moods since the curtain event. And now I'm sitting at the computer, listening to Kenny G, and pondering....

How often do I really 'blow it' with the Lord? He trust me with something important. And maybe I don't give it my all....and the end result is catastrophe. How many times does Jesus look at me with compassion and say, "It's okay. We'll just start over. You can do it. You can get it right."

Well, Charity (seamstress) somehow we'll get through this together. We'll get it right.

PRAISE REPORT

2009-02-15T16:28:00.002Z

We had a tremendous move of the Lord this morning at Church. From the onset of the service, the presence of the Lord was incredible! We had 6 people receive the Holy Ghost for the very first time!!!

Our First Grilling...

2009-02-15T16:00:00.006Z

Yesterday, we decided that after our church services today we would meet up with the Adam's and Jaydie at our house to grill. This is our first time to grill on our new grill that we brought over in the container.

The above pictures are of Sis. Adams' working the grill and Hannah and Jaydie in the kitchen preparing the side dishes. Me...I'm just taking pictures...

Everything started off smoothly. Sis. Adam's started a fruit salad. I was working on a broccoli casserole and the men cranked up the grill. It was then decided that the men would go get some ice cream to go with our dessert of peach cobbler.

(Now, please note that I'm not that handy with a grill.) Sis. Adam's suggested I go ahead and put the chicken on the grill, as it takes the longest to cook. Being the obedient missionary that I am, I carried the chicken out and placed it on the grill. After a few minutes (who knows how long because we were in the kitchen laughing and talking), Sis. Adams' suggest I check on the chicken. Well....what I didn't know was that my husband had left the grill on HIGH to get hot. The chicken was almost charcoal. I ran inside to get Sis. Adams. She came out to remove the chicken and the PAM spray that I had sprayed on the foil caught on fire! The grill was ablaze!!!!!!!!!

She jerked the foil off the grill and turned to throw it into the grass. Wouldn't you know....the grass is all dead because this has been the dry season and there was no one living here to water it. You can guess what happened next....the grass was on fire.

I ran back inside to the kitchen and got a bowl out of the sink filled with dirty water. But by the time I got back outside, Sis. Adams' had already put the fire out.

Our first grilling experience in Togo will go down in time as 'quite the event.' The above picture was taken after our near catastrophe.

Never a dull moment here with the Benson's!

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

2009-02-14T10:54:00.001Z

Just wanted to tell you how much we love you! Praying your day is sweet and blessed with the most arromatic of blessings!

Francais...Francais

2009-02-13T17:05:00.002Z

Yah... me studying Francais.

Our Language Instructor walked in the other day singing, "Francais, Francais" to the tune of "How Great Thou Art." I thought how appropriate, 'how great thou art to learn, oh francais!' My biggest problem right now is that I can't remember how to spell in English anymore....lol...hopefully, I'll recover my English as my French improves!

Au revoir! A' De main....

Some Lighter Moments...

2009-02-08T16:43:00.003Z

With all of the hussle and bussle of our container arriving and getting into the new house, I've failed to blog about some of our lighter moments...Maybe, tomorrow I'll blog about the frustrations of trying to get things done in West Africa. But, for today...enjoy this picture and take note of the little sign on Bro. Adam's chair. It says, "The Big Fish Sits Here!"

This is our celebration dinner for Bro. Adam's Birthday. We had the most fun. After stuffing ourselves full of home-made Mexican food and Sis. Adams's home-made coconut cake (yum! she only makes it once a year...but we're going to work on that), we played a couple of games of Phase 10. You all should have been here for all the food and fun!

Paula, if you happen to read this...we taught the Adam's and Aimer Jaydie to play "Settler's" this past weekend. I think they're hooked already!.....lol...

Muches Love,
Danan

Grieving

2009-02-07T10:53:00.003Z

My husband's Aunt Theresa left this life yesterday. She died from complications to the chemo drug she was taking. She leaves behind two children, Melody and Jonathan and her husband, Glynn. Please, say a special prayer for our family during this most difficult time.

As you can imagine, we'd love to be able to attend the funeral in College Station, Tx. But, one of the sacrifices we must make as missionaries is not being able to travel home when we would like to.

In truth, this is a shock. It seems so unreal. We need your prayers.

Hannah, Thad and Micah

2009-02-02T20:45:00.002Z

These pictures were taken in January. We had been here for 1 month. This is Hannah in her new "African Dress." And the boys are playing soccer right outside our gate, and yes in the middle of the road! Such is life in Togo....

The Long Over Due Low-Down!

2009-01-21T19:01:00.002Z

You're probably wondering if we fell off the face of the earth...not quite... I will try to bring you up to date on all our happenings since our last blog.

Mike, Hannah and I began Language School at the University on Jan. 5th. Let me tell you...French is a world all its own! We attend class 5 days a week until noon. Then, it's home to do the regular school work and possibly find a few hours to study our French. Our days fly by...

The house we are currently living in is not available for a long-term lease. Therefore, we had to find another house before our container arrived. We found all this out on Jan. 2! We knew there was a possibility the owner (who lives in Paris) wouldn't want to sign a 4 year contract, but thought that he would be swayed by the 4 years of rent money. It seems he wants to return to his house in July. So, we got an agent and went house hunting. You just wouldn't believe all that is involved in leasing a house over here. Long story short...we found a very nice house, close to where we live now. After tons of paperwork and lawyer fees...we've secured the lease for 4 years. Thank you, Jesus!

We found out last week that our container was arriving this week. It is in the port now and will possibly be delivered to the new house tomorrow. That will certainly provide for hours of entertainment!!!!! Truthfully, I can't believe it has arrived so quickly. Ms. Elaine (Mike's Mom) was praying it would get here before we did...lol...I'm so glad the Lord 'didn't' answer her prayer in that way.

So, we should be in the new house in the next week or so. We must install A/C units and some plumbing work must be completed first. Also, Michael Wayne has contacted the Internet company and they are to begin work on installing our Internet tower sometime next week. It won't be long....(I pray! You can never be assured of anything in West Africa happening on time.)

The kids are settling in great. I have pictures of Thad and Micah playing ball with the neighborhood kids outside our gate. I'll try to get them on soon. Right now, Thad has tonsillitis. Probably, from all the dust of playing soccer last week. This is the dry season and the sand from the Sahara is covering us. It's called the Harmaton. It keeps things cooler, but makes everything very dusty.

As for as the church work is going, the new Bible School here in Togo is coming right along. We held Conference there the last week of December. There were numerous souls filled with the Holy Ghost! Healed in Jesus Name! Delivered from Devils! We are so excited to be involved in the incredible work here in Togo. Every service, every week....filled, healed and delivered in Jesus Name is the theme!

I guess I close the book for now...I just wanted to let you guys know that we love and miss you! We're doing great. Look forward to getting our Internet connection so we can stay in touch.

Much Love,
Danan

Benson's in Benin

2008-12-30T09:23:00.002Z

My friend, your prayers were with me recently as I walked down a dusty road into a Voodoo Village in the bush country of Benin. You see, when we left out for a morning walk, our intentions were not to seek out and visit a Voodoo Village. Even still, the Lord had plans for this walk. He was going to use it to open my eyes to the depth of darkness surrounding me. (I am sorry that I do not have any pictures of the Voodoo Village. I did not have my camera with me.)

I would like to share my testimony of this visit with you.

Arriving at our bungalow in the afternoon, we had a little time but to catch our breath, freshen up a bit and head out for the night service. Soon, all eight of us were loading into one vehicle, filling the air with chatting and laughter as we anticipated GREAT REVIVAL for the evening ahead! As we journeyed, we made our way down terrible, pot-holed filled roads, soon turning off of the paved road, if you could call it that, and onto a pure dirt road. I got all excited as I thought that we were certainly almost there! Imagine my surprise when we turned off our dirt road and onto a ‘cow trail.’ We bounced. We shook. We even drove through the growth of the bush to get around a broken down bus! Thankfully, at the end of the ‘trail’ we were not to be disappointed as we were greeted by least 100 joyful children! They were all running beside the vehicle, touching it, smiling, yelling and greeting us. I couldn’t get over the children’s excitement to see their missionaries arriving!

As we exited the vehicle, we were thronged by these children, all wanting to touch us or speak to us or just give us the biggest smile they could muster. There was no doubt about the love and joy they were experiencing at our being there in service with them. The service hadn’t started yet, so we decided to have a good time with these little ones. There was music already playing through the PA system. We began to clap and worship with them. They loved every minute of it, and we did, too!!! The service began and worship continued as the precious Spirit of the Living Lord descended upon our Brush Arbor meeting. Bro. Adams’ preached an incredible word from the Lord and several received the Holy Ghost, while others received their healing. (I’m not sure of the exact numbers.)

Saturday morning arrived with Bro. Adams needing to attend Board Meetings. My husband accompanied him, leaving the four of us ladies to fin for ourselves.

Having the morning to ourselves, we decided to head out for a walk. Considering that all the roads are red dirt, we were faced with the question of “Which road do we walk down?” Looking around, it seemed that the road running down beside our Bungalows appeared to be the ‘road less traveled’ by motorized vehicle and therefore would render us least amount of red dust in our mouths, lungs and hair.

We had walked just a small distance when we found ourselves entering a Voodoo village. As we walked into the entrance of the village, the first thing we came across was a little house structure with a witch-doctor’s flag hanging out front. We peered into the little house, seeing the remains of many burnt offerings that had been sacrificed in witchcraft rituals. We continued to walk on while Sis. Adams’ explained the customs and beliefs involved in these rituals.

Rounding a curve, we came upon some houses with children playing in the yards. When the children looked up and saw us, four white women walking down their road, they began to scream in shrill, hysterical cries! They were running to get inside their houses and away from the frightening sight in the road. Sis. Adams’ advised us that we should probably turn around and return to our Bungalow, as our presence was definitely upsetting things and causing quite a stir!

My heart was so broken….Only a few short miles down the road, we had experienced many, many children who had been taught the realness and truth of the true Lord, Jesus Christ. Their hearts were filled with love, joy and excitement at our arrival. They didn’t experience any fear at seeing our white faces. And yet, there in the Voodoo village we had been perceived as bad omens, or something very dangerous. I immediately realized that these children’s lives are ruled by the spirit of fear! There is no joy, freedom or liberty for them. Their parents and witch-doctors tie strings and rags around them to further hold them in the bondage to these rituals.

Slowly, dripping wet from the heat of the morning, we made our way back to the Bungalows. The four of us parted ways to get refreshed again. I went into my room, lay on the bed and prayed. “Lord, how do we reach them? It’s so wrong that just a few miles down the road, the children are filled with Your Spirit and rejoicing. And yet here, in the Voodoo village (of which there are many), these children live in fear and gross darkness.” As night approached, we found ourselves discussing how dark it truly is here in West Africa. It is the “darkest” dark I have ever experienced in the natural. How much more in the Spiritual? “Lord, how do we reach them?” They all deserve to know You!

My eyes were opened and my heart broken at the same time. Your prayers carried me. Thank you for going with me. I really needed you.

Danan

Just A Quicky...

2008-12-18T15:58:00.002Z

Hello, all...

Just wanted to say, Hi! (Pictured above is me and Hannah at her Sweet 16th at the Adam's)
We are still doing well. We found out that the internet company is out of 'towers.' So, until some more 'towers' come in, we must wait for internet. Sorry....

Tomorrow, we are traveling to Benin for a Regional conference. Help us pray for a mighty outpouring of the Holy Ghost this weekend!

Much Love To All...
Benson5

So It Snowed in Louisiana....

2008-12-13T12:28:00.002Z

Do you reckon that it's a sign of the times? OR possibly Global Warming? Someone, please call Al Gore!No, only kidding!

We are so excited for all you southern folks who got to enjoy the snow. The kids loved Pawpaw Durwood's snowman! I guess we saw our fair share of snow while on deputation. I cannot truthfully say that we are envious of you guys...lol! The closest thing we're experiencing to snow here in Togo is the sweat that is coverings us and drips off of us. When we walk into the airconditioning, it may drip off as sleet....lol

Now, onto other matters...
We are getting settled into the rental house. All of the suitcases are unpacked. That's a major blessing. The house is big. We like that. But the inside hallway is open all the way up through the roof. It's about a 12 ft. by 8 ft. open area. So, yes it can rain in also. That makes it really hot to walk from room to room. Also, the kitchen has no A/C. So, I pour sweat while in the kitchen...which is a lot! We really like this house. And have a few ideas for helping its 'unflattering issues' out. But, we'll probably look at a few more houses before we start investing money in this one. So, help us pray that we'll make the right decisions.

MW and I both have cell phones now. We still do not have internet. We're going to try and work on that this coming week.

Both of the boys are feeling bad today. I think it's viral. Just the normal adjustments....

Hannah's B-day is Monday. Today, Sis. Adams and Jaydie are throwing her a surprise B-Day party. We're grilling burgers and eating cake and ice cream. Sounds like fun, uh! Wish you could be here, too!

I guess that's about it for our news. We are still most happy to be here. We do miss all of you and we are looking forward to y'all visiting us here in Togo!!!!

First Service in Togo

2008-12-09T11:11:00.003Z

Hello to all far and near...
We have arrived in Togo. The trip was pretty much uneventful. Praise the Lord! I am posting a few pictures on the blog. The picture of the Missionary Crew is: Jadee (Aimer), Sis. Adams, me, MW, Bro. Adams). I love the picture of the clock in the tree. This church has a building, but we were outside due to the heat. I can assure you...any breeze was much appreciated!
Sorry that I do not have any pics of MW praying with folks. He was all up in the middle of the altar crowd and I couldn't get a picture. But, fear not...he was in there praying!
We are happy and blessed to be back in Africa. Enjoy the few pictures...
Much Love to All,
Benson5

Jeremy and Kassie's Wedding

2008-11-30T01:43:00.003Z

I am so excited that I am still home and was able to attend my niece Kassidy's wedding today. Kassie is my middle sister Deidra's daughter. It was a rainy day, but the bride was beautiful and chased all the clouds away! Please, enjoy my memories with me.

Thanksgiving Blessings with the Benson's!

2008-11-27T17:09:00.004Z

It was an afternoon of Thanksgiving for all the Blessings of our family!!! Please, notice how nice Aunt Joy and Aunt Shirley's hair looks. It seems that they somehow figured out that I might post their pictures on my blog....I can't imagine why they would think that... Anyway, they had Mabry and Elizabeth 'beautify them' prior to my arrival with the camera. I'm so glad they were looking so special!

Great fun was had by all....and the family's treasured picture will very soon find it's way in a new home! Look Out....You may be next.

It's Done!

2008-11-25T02:55:00.002Z

Hallelujah!!! The container is packed and bound for Togo. Can you believe it? The guy who drove the container to us looked at our stuff and said, "This your first time to take container? We said, Yes. He said, Too much stuff for this container." But, the Lord was with us and all the nay-sayers were sure surprised that it all went in. I don't know if there's room for oxygen in that container, but only a couple of things were left. And they were non-important items. I am so thankful!!! What a day! Many thanks to the 'crew' who helped get the container packed! We love ya!

I'm No David Letterman Fan...

2008-11-24T01:52:00.002Z

This came as an email to me. I am no David Letterman fan. But, having first-hand knowledge of how the 'rest of the world' lives, I had to agree with his thoughts. I thought I would share them with you...Danan

David Letterman wrote this; it's the David we don't often see....No matter
what your political convictions are this is eye opener....What a thankless
people we are!!!

' As most of you know I am not a President Bush fan, nor have I ever been,
but this is not about Bush, it is about us, as Americans, and it seems to
hit the mark.' The other day I was reading Newsweek magazine and came
across some Poll data I found rather hard to believe. It must be true the
source, right?
The Newsweek poll alleges that 67 percent of Americans are unhappy with
the direction the country is headed and 69 percent of the country is
unhappy with the performance of the President. In essence 2/3 of the
citizenry just ain't happy and want a change. So being the knuckle dragger I
am, I started thinking, 'What are we so unhappy about?''
A.. Is it that we have electricity and running water 24 hours a day, 7 Days
a week?
B.. Is our unhappiness the result of having air conditioning in the summer
and heating in the winter?
C.. Could it be that 95.4 percent of these unhappy folks have a job?
D. Maybe it is the ability to walk into a grocery store at any time and see
more food in moments than Darfur has seen in the last year?
E.. Maybe it is the ability to drive our cars and trucks from the Pacific
Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean without having to present identification papers
as we move through each state?
F.. Or possibly the hundreds of clean and safe motels we would find along
the way that can provide temporary shelter?
G.. I guess having thousands of restaurants with varying cuisine from
around the world is just not good enough either.
H.. Or could it be that when we wreck our car, emergency workers show up and
provide services to help all and even send a helicopter to take you to the
hospital.
I.. Perhaps you are one of the 70 percent of Americans who own a home.
J.. You may be upset with knowing that in the unfortunate case of a fire, a
group of trained firefighters will appear in moments and use top notch
equipment to extinguish the=2 0flames, thus saving you, your family, and your
belongings.
K.. Or if, while at home watching one of your many flat screen TVs, a
burglar or prowler intrudes, an officer equipped with a gun and a
bullet-proof vest will come to defend you and your family against attack or
loss.
L.. This all in the backdrop of a neighborhood free of bombs or militias
raping and pillaging the residents. Neighborhoods where 90% of teenagers
own cell phones and computers.
M.. How about the complete religious, social and political freedoms we enjoy
that are the envy of everyone in the world?
Maybe that is what has 67% of you folks unhappy.
Fact is, we are the largest group of ungrateful, spoiled brats the world has
ever seen. No wonder the world loves the U.S. , yet has a great disdain for
its citizens. They see us for what we are. The most blessed people in the
world who do nothing but complain about what we don't have, and what we hate
about the country instead of thanking the good Lord we live here.

I know, I know. What about the president who took us into war and has no
plan to get us out? The president who has a measly 31 percent approval
rating? Is this the same president who guided the nation in the dark days
after 9/11? The president that cut taxes to bring an economy out of
recession? Could this be the same guy who has been called every name in
the book for succeeding in keeping all the spoiled ungrateful brats safe
from terrorist attacks? The commander in chief of an all-volunteer army
that is out there defending you and me?

Did you hear how bad the President is on the news or talk show? Did this
news affect you so much, make you so unhappy you couldn't take a look around
for yourself and see all the good things and be glad? Think about it .....
are you upset at the President because he actually caused you personal pain
OR is it because the 'Media' told you he was failing to kiss your sorry
ungrateful behind every day.
Make no mistake about it.

The troops in Iraq and Afghanistan have volunteered to serve, and in many
cases may have died for your freedom. There is currently no draft in this
country. They didn't have to go. They are able to refuse to go and end up
with either a ''general'' discharge, an 'other than honorable'' discharge
or, worst case scenario, a ''dishonorable' discharge after a few days in the
brig. So why then the flat-out discontentment in the minds of 69 percent of
Americans?
Say what you want but I blame it on the media. If it bleeds, it leads and
they specialize in bad news.
Everybody will watch a car crash with blood and guts. How many will watch
kids selling lemonade at the corner? The media knows this and media outlets
are for-profit corporations. They offer what sells, and when criticized,
try to defend their actions by20'justifying' them in one way or another. Just
ask why they tried to allow a murderer like O.J. Simpson to write a book
about how he didn't kill his wife, but if he did he would have done it this
way......Insane!

Turn off the TV, burn Newsweek, and use the New York Times for the bottom of
your bird cage. Then start being grateful for all we have as country. There
is exponentially more good than bad. We are among the most blessed people
on Earth and should thank God several times a day, or at least be thankful
and appreciative. With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud
slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end
to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, 'Are we
sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?'

David Letterman

We are Family...

2008-11-24T00:26:00.003Z

Today we celebrated our "Thanksgiving Dinner" with the Williams (Danan's side) Family. We all ate way too much! But, I'm sure we'll work it off tomorrow loading our container.
These are my parents, sisters, brother and neices, ect...

Family is so very special to me. They are our support group...biggest fans...cheerleaders, ect... ect... ect....

How many Moms do you know who would tell their kids that "They better not come home early from Africa"? Yep! That's what my Mom says. She says that she doesn't like 'quitters.' If the burden and calling don't keep me there, Nana Barbara sure will...lol.... Seriously, I'm so thankful for such a wonderful supporting family.

And Michael Wayne's side is just as GREAT!!! Pictures from that side are coming on Wednesday. I can hardly wait!

I LOVE OUR FAMILY................I'M SO THANKFUL FOR OUR FAMILY!

Soon and Very Soon...

2008-11-22T04:42:00.003Z

Just a thought...Two weeks from today, we leave for Togo. The above picture is of the coast of Togo, West Africa. We're counting down the days and they are flying past!

Meet Jaden

2008-11-19T00:46:00.003Z

Dear Friends,

I want you to meet the newest member of the Fasola Family. His name is Jaden and he is the sweetest baby! As I held him on Sunday, he just coo-ed in my ear. It was love at first sight!!!

Our good friends, Blake and Heather, are the proud parents. This is their first child. Heather is very special to me. She is a kindred spirit!

Jaden is also the first grandchild of our church secretary, Sis. Charlotte. And we love Sis. Charlotte very much, too!

Ewwww...I love him so much! Squeeze...... Now, you want to hold him too!

I'm Back Again...

2008-11-17T20:15:00.005Z

Hello dear friends! It's great to blog with you again. I'm sorry that I had to take a little 'leave of absence.' It seems my body decided to have an allergic reaction. I couldn't get the normal 'rash' or something easy. My throat had to swell and try to close up. Now, if you've ever realized that you were slowly losing your air supply, it's not a fun experience.

Long story short....(if you think I'm capable of making a long story short...lol)...

I woke up Thursday morning feeling like the roof of my mouth, towards the back was sore. I went to take my morning vitamins and blood pressure pill. I had great difficulty swallowing the pills. While trying to brush my teeth, I almost gagged to death. I decided to have a look at my throat by this time. Imagine my surprise, when I saw the 'little dangling thing' in the back of my throat almost occluding the opening. At that point, I began to get rather concerned....Immediately, I called the DR (which was most difficult, considering that trying to talk brought on horrendous coughing spasms)....went in to see the Doctor...and the next thing I knew, I was in the hospital getting pumped full of steroids. I don't normally have allergies....So, this was pretty surreal...

Hannah calls it my "near death experience." MW said I scared him to death on the way to the doctor....I told him, "Now if I stop breathing, pull over. Call 911. Take this wooden spoon and try to get my airway open." I knew when I saw the swollen Uvula (dangly thing), the situation could be dangerous. I just had to prepare him.

Thankfully, I'm fine. We didn't have any further complications. And God is still good. Now, there's much work to be done. It's back to getting everything ready to go into that container next Monday. We still have 1 storage unit to sort through and pack down.

Dear Blogging Buddies....I'm so glad I'm still here blogging with ya!

Friends are Friends Forever...

2008-11-10T20:06:00.003Z

(Please note that the bottle in Micah's hand is grape juice. We do not drink alcohol...smiles...)
As we are counting down the days to our departure date (now less than 4 weeks), I am trying to say Goodbye to the people that we are closest to. It's hard! I am so pumped and ready to move on to our new life in Togo...and yet there lingers sadness at the thought of leaving my family and best-buddies behind.

This past weekend found us enjoying a night of fellowship with our buddies, the Fincher's. We competed over a board game of "Settler's" with Donny, Vickie and Steven. Michael Wayne won the game...but, only because Steven couldn't win and therefore helped my husband win!!! Bad Steven!!! lol...what great fun we had eating a delicious meal of steak and then sharing our game together.

I'm reminded of the song, "Friends are friends forever when the Lord is the Lord of them." And that's what we are....Friends Forever!

Amish Hannah

2008-11-09T03:22:00.004Z

Today Hannah and I went to Deliverance Tabernacle in Mandeville to present our "Amish Reflections." Pastor Dickson and Sis. Dee (my sister "Denise") invited us to speak at their "Ladies Fellowship." We spoke about our tours through Amish Country while traveling through Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee. We shared a DVD of several of our pictures and spoke about the Amish beliefs, customs and lifestyle.

My mom, Nan Barbara, accompanied us and helped make homemade "Amish Tomato Soup" and "Bacon/Cheddar Muffins." The food was a real treat! A couple of the ladies brought dishes also. Thus, we enjoyed a small feast!

If you know Hannah very well, then you know that she 'loves' the Amish. She was so in her element as she spoke on the Amish. She dressed up Amish to emphasize her part.

Great fun was had by all as we discussed the Amish Lifestyle!

Funny Moment

2008-11-03T15:42:00.002Z

Sometimes my kids say the cutest things....

Hannah is the recipient of this week's "Cutest Comment."

We were traveling down the road, with our vehicle full of 'container stuff' from Sam's and Wal-Mart. This has become a common occurrence. The kids have little room to sit due to the volume of items crammed around them.

Hannah pipes up and says, "We are like Noah preparing for the flood, getting all of our stuff ready for the Ark."

I began to laugh. Yeah Hannah. You're right! We storing up supplies for the years ahead.

It's Your Birthday!

2008-11-01T15:36:00.003Z

Happy Birthday to my "Big Sister Denise." Denise is in the brown jacket in the picture. In the black jacket, is my middle sister, Deidra. She's pretty special too. But, it's not her B-day today...lol...

Denise is the oldest of our four siblings and I am the youngest. Yeah!!!! (This is an ongoing joke)

Some years ago....I had to stand as a witness for her, as she went through some minor court proceedings (nothing bad). At the time, I was 18 and she was 26. The judge looked at us and asked, "Who is the oldest?" Naturally, I was offended in the most major of ways that he had to ask...ha! Since that time, I always emphasize on who is the oldest, although honestly, I could care less.

Denise has taught High School Math for somewhere around 20 Yrs. now. She Student-Taught me Algebra II...ahhhh...such sweet memories! Right, Neese? She and her husband, Bro. Steve Dickson, pastor in Mandeville, La.

Neese, I'm so glad you're my Sis! I don't know what I would do without you. Praying your special day is blessed and crazy with fun!

Love ya,
Nan

What are we doing?

2008-10-29T22:32:00.003Z

Just in case you thought we had gotten bored, here is what we've been working on the last few days. Hodge UPC in Hodge, La. took up a generous offering on Sunday night to help us with buying supplies for the container. (Thank You Hodge UPC!!!!!!!!!) It's not easy to figure out how much 'stuff' you need for 4 years. But, we're giving it a try.

Here we are today sorting through and placing small items into blue containers.

Five and a half weeks and counting down......

Gotta Be Flexible....

2008-10-26T03:56:00.003Z

Some may have noticed that I should not be posting this week, as I'm supposed to be camping in Cherokee, NC with my parents and dear family-friend, Sis. Edwin. Long story short, we left at 5:00 am on Tuesday morning for the Great Smokey's. We spent Tuesday night in a hotel, as we got to the mountains too late in the evening to get set up (that's a major undertaking with my perfectionist Mom.) While in the hotel room, I checked our email and found an email asking if we could come to a church in northern Louisiana this weekend for a Mission Conference. Of course, I immediately said, "No way! I'm on vacation with my parents." My husband spoke up and said, "No Danan. I've prayed and asked the Lord to guide our footsteps. He has opened a door for us and we will not shut it."

Believe it or not....I felt total peace and said, "Okay."

So, we camped Wed. and Thursday and had a great time, cooking outside, playing in the streams, ect... Friday, it rained all day long. Even with our tents covered in plastic, everything still got damp and yucky. Needless to say, I found us a motel room for last night to try and dry out. This morning (Saturday), we packed all of our wet stuff and headed home.

Got home at 10:00 pm tonight...put up wet tent so it could dry...unloaded mounds of wet clothes and blankets...Are we having fun yet? It took about 11 hours to get home today. Tomorrow, we will drive another 5 hours to get to our evening service. I just thought deputation was over!!! hehehe..... Seriously, we are looking very forward to the service tomorrow night. These are great people!

And on one more honest note....it's too cold to be tent camping in the mountains anyway. I just about froze to death!

Fishing Trip With MawMaw and PawPaw Benson

2008-10-19T01:04:00.003Z

Truthfully, this fishing trip didn't make for a "great catch." Thankfully, we took plenty of food with us and fun was had by all! We relaxed...ate...fed the ducks...ate some more...fished...ate...went for boat rides...ate some more...you get the picture. Awe...such precious memories with MawMaw and PawPaw Benson!

Getting It Done

2008-10-12T17:55:00.004Z

I just wanted to say "Hi" to all...

Things are progressing well. We're moving on and towards our departure date around the first of December. This coming week should be fun. We're going camping with my husband's parents. We're savoring these special times with our families, as we know that we won't be sharing any for the next four years.

As our departure dates draws near, I am simply overwhelmed by all that must be accomplished for us to leave. Although, through it all, I'm really excited to be at this point in the process. Our whole family has waited for our return to Africa for 4 years. Now that it's finally here, we are most exhilarated to be making final preparations!!!

I guess there really isn't anything great and dramatic to report. Just getting it together...enjoying our families...anticipating our departure.....and thanking the Lord for friends like you!

The Real World

2008-10-09T18:58:00.003Z

We have entered into our 'Transition Chapter' of this journey.

Paperwork and Newbies don't mixed very well. And...we've already made a couple of mistakes. There's so much to do getting ready to go. We've got to get a Power of Attorney set up again, a Will, Shipping of our container, Visas, Tickets, ect...
It seems the list is endless.

We were so pampered when we went on AIM to Madagascar...lol
All of our preparation paperwork was handled by Bro. Paul Suber. He handed us our tickets and visas, and all other necessary paperwork in a nice, neat envelope. He took us to the airport, put us on the plane, emailed us every week or so to see if we needed anything....and if we did, he took care of it on this end for us.

Once in Madagascar, Bro. Chris Richardson took care of all the paperwork there for us. Any problems on that side, and he was there to see us through.

Well folks, this is the real world...AIM is over!
I'm sure this is a great learning experience for us! But, it sure is frustrating right now...lol

We're learning a lot. And making our share of mistakes along the way.

Keep us in your prayers! We need them!

Much Love to All......Danan

M. Benson's Ordination Service

2008-10-02T01:01:00.000Z

The Small Things...

2008-09-29T05:29:00.004Z

Isaiah 49:16
Behold, I have graven thee on the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me.

19 hours of driving today...We're a little tired...The good news, only 7 hours more to go tomorrow. Tonight, we find ourselves in Columbus, Ohio. (For what is left of the night anyway! hehe)

While traveling today, the whole family was craving Chili's for lunch. So, I picked up the GPS and found a Chili's along our way. Knowing that we were super strapped for time...add to that, it was 12:00 "Noon Lunch Hour!"

I said a simple prayer: Lord please let this Chili's:

1. Actually be at the location the GPS says it is suppose to be.

2. We get seated very quickly.

3. We have excellent service!

4. And, as everyone is rather picky, they get our order right.

Not too much to ask, uh?
Would you believe, we walked straight in the door about 12:15. We were seated immediately. The waitress was super! The food was terrific. We were in and out in no time...

Sometimes...it's just the small things that remind me that my Lord Jesus really does care about every detail of our lives!

Take time today to find the joy in the small blessings along the way!

We close this Chapter...

2008-09-28T01:02:00.004Z

Tonight ended our Official Deputation Schedule...We close this chapter of our journey, ready to start recording on the next chapter. As we look back over the last year and a half, we have such fond memories of the many friends we formed close relationships with all along the way. Friendships that will last a lifetime! Had it not been for deputation, our paths quite possibly would have never intersected. And for those ever so few 'not so fond memories,' we leave them behind. So for all the good, we give the Lord all the glory! And for the small amount of disappointment we've encountered along the way, we count it all gain. For in every situation, we have learned, we have gleaned, we have grown...all the while striving to become the vessels the Lord has called us to be...

And so we leave you tonight, closing this chapter in our lives....Tomorrow, when we get on the road, ever so bright and early, we begin the next phase of this incredible journey.

We're so joyful that you have chosen to make this journey with us. We can't imagine living this life without each one of your prayers. We hold you close in our hearts.

For all you encouragement, your love and your blessings along the way, we say a great big "Thank You."

God is so Amazing!

2008-09-27T02:43:00.004Z

We are finishing up Deputation in Woodstock, NB. We are blessed to be speaking at Calvary UPC's Mission Conference. Bro. Craig Sully is the pastor. Interesting thing...He is a former missionary to Burkina Faso, Africa.

The UPCI's original contact into the Central Africa Republic was a trip made by
Bro. Randy Adams (Togo/Benin) and Bro. Sully.

Bro. Sully posted this picture of that first baptism in the CAR on his website back in 2003. The caption underneath the picture said, "Central African Republic, there's no one to go. Would you go?"
My husband and I saw the picture. The Lord used this picture to plant a burden within us for the CAR.

How fitting...that we would end our deputation with the same people that the Lord used to deliver our initial burden for the CAR.

It wasn't planned this way by man...It is a God Thing!!!

Finish Line in Sight!

2008-09-26T03:17:00.003Z

Can you believe it? Only two days of deputation left...Wow! We're a long way from Louisiana right now. We're in Zealand, NB with Bro. and Sis. McCarty (great folks! you'd really love to meet them.)

Tomorrow, we move on over to Woodstock, NB (no, this is not the hangout of the hippies...lol). Here, we'll be in a Mission Conference with Bro. Craig Sully, former missionary to Africa. We'll be with him Friday and Saturday for services.

Sunday morning we pull out for St. Louis. We have 25 driving hours (of course it will be more with stops). We are due to began Outbound Orientation Tuesday at noon at the WEC in St. Louis. On Wednesday, we will continue meetings until around 11:00 am when "my sweet husband" will be ordained.

I'll stop there for now with the itinerary....lol.....

Keep us in your prayers. We're so close to the finish line of deputation.

Cool, Crisp Friday!

2008-09-20T00:13:00.005Z

Hello, Friends!

Today, we have traveled up Route 8 in New Brunswick to Bathurst. Haven't seen much of the city, but I can tell you the weather's pretty cool here...in the 50's. MW, Hannah and Thad have gone to the Youth Service here at Bro. Pio's tonight. Micah and I are in the motel room chilling out. He's busy with his Play Station II (you're surprised, uh), and obviously I'm playing on the computer. What did we do before internet? How boring life must to have been! What did we do?...actually hold 'live conversations' with real people...lol...Oh, how I love the internet. I can talk to my folks back in Louisiana and at the same time chat with Paula R. in Madagascar...all while I'm in Canada. As Micah says, "We're all techno geeks!"

This weekend will be busy. MW is to make a church dedication and fellowship meeting tomorrow. Thankfully, they offered to allow Mom and the Kiddo's to stay in the room if we wished, as it will require much travel for those services. We were happy to remain here!..smiles... A little road weary...yeh. (as they say here in New Brunswick. Everything ends with 'yeh.') And we have two services on Sunday. Monday, we drive about 3 hours back down to Fredericton.

I should be using this time to work on my French, as most of the stations on this TV are in French. We are very close to Quebec. Unfortunately, Micah won't give up the cartoon channel so I can listen and see how much French I can pick up on...Oh, a Mother's sacrifice!

As you can see...I'm just babbling.....

Hope you have a tremendous weekend!

Are We There Yet?

2008-09-16T20:28:00.008Z

Fifteen driving hours later, we have arrived in Doaktown, NB...Canada. I must confess that I was getting a little weary from the ride. Our "Wonder Woman GPS" wasn't quite up-to-date on the highways and roads in NB. Needless to say, she got us lost....and she couldn't find where we were, to help us get 'found' again. After much frustration we wiggled our way back onto a road that she recognized. And finally we're back on track...on the most back roads you've ever seen. Now if you're from the Bogalusa area, you are familiar with 'Swamp Road.' Today, we traveled twenty-five miles down it's twin!!! Gravel, washed-out road all the way... and before that tour of BackRoads New Brunswick, we traveled on a poorly paved road for miles and miles and miles....

Let me be fair to this incredibly, beautiful land. There are nice roads here. And we shouldn't have ever been on the roads we ended up on. But, thank to Bertha GPS...we took the scenic route.

...ONCE HERE......LOOK AT THE INCREDIBLE BEAUTY OF THE LORD'S CREATION AND ENJOY!!!

Benson Family Turned Amish?

2008-09-13T23:01:00.011Z

Has the Benson Family converted to the Amish way of life? Well, although Africa can sometimes seem that way....we haven't. We're in Intercourse, Pennsylvania, home to the Lancaster County Amish. The Amish are widespread throughout Lancaster County. We enjoyed our time in "Amish Country" very much.

This week we're heading into New Brunswick, Canada. We will finish up our deputation in this beautiful district.

A cute story on Micah...We spent the last few days at a Campground in Pennsylvania. There was a pond there and the boys did a great deal of fishing. After running out of bait they had purchased at Wal-mart, the boys began begging for more money to buy some worms from the Campground Store. My husband gave them $10.00 and told them to go buy as many worms as they could.

Thad returned to the cabin fuming! He said, "The lady told Micah that we could get 3 cups of worms if he would put his candy back. Instead of Micah putting his candy back on the shelf, he told me to put the cup of worms back. Now, we only have two cups of worms!"

My husband and I burst out laughing. Now, if you know Micah...you know the child lives for candy. And if you know Thad, you know how he loves fishing! Enough said!

Shots In Charleston Area

2008-09-05T19:56:00.005Z

Here we are in West Virgiana.....The building in the last picture is Open Door Apostolic Church, Pastor Chris Sowards. This is where we are staying in the Evangelist Apartment. This building is very old and oh...so...beautiful!

West Virginia

2008-09-03T01:26:00.002Z

Great Greetings to everyone!

I'm so thrilled to report that there doesn't appear to be any major damage in our 'home area' of Louisiana from Hurricane Gustav. There's the typical power outages and phone lines down. But, besides plenty of rain, there doesn't appear to be much damage that we've heard of. Thank you for your prayers!

Today, we've arrived in Charleston, West Virginia. It is a beautiful town. Since we're blessed to be staying in a nice Evangelist Quarters, we went out this evening for some nic-nacs and a few groceries. Right next to Wal-Mart was a Famous Dave's BBQ. Now if you know my husband, you know how much he enjoys BBQ....and Famous Dave's is one of his favorites! Needless to say, I'm stuffed! We enjoyed our meal and made it onto Wal-Mart and back the EQ without incident.

I pray you are blessed in all that you are doing today. Please, know that I hold each friend dear to my heart!

Rejoicing because you're my friend...Danan

Hurricane Gustav

2008-08-30T14:28:00.004Z

Visiting via phone with friends and family this morning, I found just about everyone I know at home, (Bogalusa, Louisiana) evacuating the ever approaching storm. I am somewhat amazed at the early preparations by most folks there. It seems we've learned a lot from Hurricane Katrina, and no one wants to hang around for another storm.

My sister Deidra has a travel-trailer and has moved it to North Louisiana. My sister Denise has packed up her family, along with my parents (my mom just had abdominal surgery and isn't released to drive yet), and they are heading to a cabin we frequently rent in Tennessee. It's a large cabin and very reasonably priced. My brother is staying behind to watch over things. I guess if things get bad enough, he may move to safer ground eventually. My friend, Vickie, has already moved with their travel-trailer up into Northern Mississippi.

At this point in Katrina, we were all at a let's wait and see position. Now, no one is taking changes. No one wants to live through that nightmare again! Mike and I were 6 weeks before having electricity returned to our home from katrina. We spent most of that time in Tennessee.

I'm not wishing this storm on anyone! I'm just thinking...Lord, we've barely recovered from the devastation of Katrina...please, spare us. I know it's impossible. But, couldn't this thing just dissipate over the Gulf and lose it's punch?

Well, whatever storm we must face in life, we can know that the Lord is with us. And this is what we hold to.

Pray for the Gulf Coast. Devastation is at the door....

Deputation at it's best...

2008-08-29T03:29:00.001Z

Another Update

2008-08-26T21:16:00.002Z

We have arrived back in the good ole USA. We enjoyed our time in Ontario very much and picked up several new partners!!!

Yesterday, we drove back into Michigan and today on down into Ohio. We will spend this week in the central part of Ohio and then into West Virgina next week.
Driving has been the name of the game for the last week. While in West Virgina next week, we'll be staying in an Evangelist Quarters. We're looking forward to sitting still for a few days! lol...

And we continue to count down...5 weeks left!

Niagara Falls, Canada

2008-08-22T19:09:00.002Z

Elliot Lake, Ontario

2008-08-21T02:13:00.003Z

Our first stop was just north of Michigan at Elliot Lake, Ontario. It was just as beautiful as it sounds. Here's a picture of the Elliot Lake and the boys standing on the rocks just to the side of the church.

Benson's Cross the Border...

2008-08-19T20:33:00.006Z

Here we are! Ontario, Canada. This is our first trip into Canada and we are impressed! We have traveled along Lake Huron (I think) hehe...I need to look at an Atlas! It's truly been beautiful driving.