Tricia Kaye's Blog

My baby is FIVE!

2012-01-12T09:23:00.001-05:00

I can't believe that my baby is 5. These 5 years have been the best years of my life! It has been such a joy and honor to raise Davis.

2 days old!

1 years old!

2 years old!

3 years old!

4 years old!

Davis' First Day of School

2012-01-11T06:40:00.001-05:00

A new school year here in South Africa. Davis was very excited to start today with a new teacher and a new classroom. He even brought a picture of Lily to show off his sister!

My baby is growing up!

Welcome Lily Raelynn

2012-01-11T04:31:00.001-05:00

[[posterous-content:kxIEgbCmHDgBeDeADdsE]][[posterous-content:dhJDGqgvipDeAAIfJgra]][[posterous-content:nIqzkxhkogBeqDAwgCpq]]This blog post is dedicated to the most beautiful, little, sweet, precious, white African-Ameican baby in the entire Republic of South Africa!

Noah, Davis and I are thrilled to anounce the arrival of our sweet daughter, Lily Raelynn Kaye.

Date: Saturday, January 7th, 2012 (EXACTLY 5 years after Davis- get ready for some MAJOR birthday partying January 7th, 2013)

Location: Constantia, Cape Town, South Africa

Time: 2:14pm

Weight: 6lb, 7oz

Length: 18.5in

Lily's name is spiritually significant...it means beauty and purity-- indicative of her future. We belive that the Lord has great plans for Lily. She will be a radical, Holy Spirit led, Jesus lover.

Lily's name is also practically significant in that she is our "Lily of the Valley"-- we live in the Fish Hoek Valley of Cape Town. What is really cool is that Davis choose her name!

She is a miracle and an answer to prayer and prophetic words over our family. Read about it HERE when we announced our pregnancy.

Join us in praying for Lily's life-- that it would shine for Jesus.

Davis' Last Day of School

2011-12-10T10:10:00.001-05:00

I can't believe we have lived here in South Africa a whole school year! It just seems like yesterday we got of the plane and started this new chapter in our lives.

Yesterday was Davis' last day of school. He is now on summer holiday for the next 4 1/2 weeks. We are so proud of the growth and maturity we have seen in this last year. He has learned so much at school and got to play his little heart out each day!

Davis' first day of school (Jan. 2011)

Davis' last day of school (Dec. 2001)

Baby Shower!

2011-11-19T04:23:00.001-05:00

My friends got together and blessed Lily and I with a shower. They showered me with lots of love, prayers, and gifts. What a blessing they are to me!

[[posterous-content:pid___0]]Beautiful butterfly cake! MADE by....

[[posterous-content:pid___1]]The famous Lancaster County and now South African baker Shawn (AKA Titi to Davis)!

[[posterous-content:pid___2]]Yummy Yummy Food!

[[posterous-content:pid___3]]Louisa getting into the chocolate machine!

[[posterous-content:pid___4]]Deby is the life of the party!

[[posterous-content:pid___5]]Tersia and I posing!

[[posterous-content:pid___6]]Julianna writing on a diaper!

[[posterous-content:pid___7]]Noah and I have alot of funny things to read during the middle of the night changes!

[[posterous-content:pid___8]]Anette, just one more pose!

Thank you ladies for making me feel so loved and supported!!!!

Family Pictures

2011-11-02T13:59:00.001-04:00

See the full gallery on Posterous

Tricia Kaye
Blog: triciakaye.posterous.com
Family Site: kayefam.me

Sent from my iPhone

Davis in Masi

2011-10-28T16:16:00.001-04:00

One of Davis' favorite things to do right now is playing with his spinning top that he bought in Masi. It is what all the boys are playing with in Masi and so Davis wanted one too!

Here is Davis playing with some boys today in Masi with his spinning top outside of where we have our VC Kid's Club.

Blessing in Community!

2011-10-17T10:04:00.001-04:00

I know it has been a long time since I have written a blog post but life got really busy and being pregnant I only had enough energy to give to my family and to ministry. That said I am feeling better and my energy level is getting better, so I promise to write more often!

My first post being back I want to talk about being blessed in the community I am living in. God knew exactly what I needed when He moved me 8000 miles away from my family and friends. While Noah was away for 2 weeks, I came down with the flu. It was pretty bad and it was hard for me to get out of bed and tend to Davis.

I have made some amazing friends here and they were ready and willing to take turns nursing me back to health and tend to Davis. I couldn’t believe the care they were giving me and they made it easy being sick without Noah home and having my family to lean on.

In these last several months I have never experience community quite like this. 8 months ago these ladies were total strangers and now they are there when I need them. One was even willing to hold the trash can as I puked my guts out and if that wasn’t bad enough, she insisted to clean it out so I could go back and lay down.

Township to Township

2011-05-31T14:53:00.001-04:00

One of my friends, Sarah Prince, that works in Ocean View (a coloured township) got some of the ladies she works with to come in a pray for some single moms in Masi (the township I work in). It was a powerful time of prayer and song and I felt so honored to be apart of this divine moment with these ladies. The visit took place in the dark and the shacks had no working electritiy.

Fun With My VC kids

2011-05-16T14:44:00.001-04:00

Wanted to share some pictures of the kids I mentor in Masi

Sinazo (11), Loyiso (8), and Sihle (15)

Loyiso and Davs after having some ice cream!

Sinazo and I before Kid's Club. It makes me so happy to see her smile!

Davis and Sinazo. He has grown very close to these kids!

Stolen Post: Storying in Masi

2011-05-14T13:48:00.001-04:00

This video captures something that we are really seeing the Lord bless. We call it storying. Since so many people do not learn by reading (close to 80% of the world are oral learners), we are experimenting with different ways that: A) People can learn the scripture in a manner that penetrates their hearts. B) They can reproduce it for others. I encourage you to try this in a group soon. Later, I will post some stories that we have crafted. Use, reproduce, tell others and let the Word of the Lord go forth.

Storying in Masi from Noah Kaye on Vimeo.

Masi Fire

2011-05-10T14:14:00.001-04:00

What a week we have had! Last Monday we woke up to the news that there was a massive fire in Masi, burning at least 1500 shacks. People were left with no home and many with no possessions to their name. When I arrived on the scene, I couldn't believe what I was seeing. I have never seen a fire so big and do so much damage. I felt for the people because I could remember what it was like to watch a home burn down.

The fire started in the middle of the night and when we got in at 9am the people were already clearing their site and starting to rebuild.

Even the kids lent a helping hand!

Each day there was more progress!

By the end of the week many shacks were rebuilt and people were trying to replace the things they lost from donations the community was providing.

He is My Refuge!

2011-04-27T10:27:00.001-04:00

Praying through this today!

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”

  Surely he will save you
   from the fowler’s snare
   and from the deadly pestilence.
He will cover you with his feathers,
   and under his wings you will find refuge;
   his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
You will not fear the terror of night,
   nor the arrow that flies by day,
  nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,
   nor the plague that destroys at midday.
  A thousand may fall at your side,
   ten thousand at your right hand,
   but it will not come near you.
You will only observe with your eyes
   and see the punishment of the wicked.

   If you say, “The LORD is my refuge,”
   and you make the Most High your dwelling,
   no harm will overtake you,
   no disaster will come near your tent.
   For he will command his angels concerning you
   to guard you in all your ways;
  they will lift you up in their hands,
   so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
   You will tread on the lion and the cobra;
   you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

  “Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescue him;
   I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
   He will call on me, and I will answer him;
   I will be with him in trouble,
   I will deliver him and honor him.
     With long life I will satisfy him
   and show him my salvation.”

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T13:44:00.001-04:00

Easter was very different for us this year being in another country. We really missed our family and our church, but we managed to make the best of it.

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I left Davis' Easter basket in the states so I bought this basket for him.

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Davis' finished Easter basket!

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Davis looking for his Easter basket!

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He found it!

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Davis and Mona playing with their Easter things!

[[posterous-content:pid___6]]We had an Easter breakfast with the 2 other families that we live with!

On the Eve of Easter

2011-04-23T16:35:00.001-04:00

Davis and I had a very special moment tonight as I was putting him to bed. We read the Easter story in the Jesus Book Storybook and then off to cuddle into some sweet percious dreams. As we layed down I told Davis that instead of just praying tonight let finish this statement......

Thank you Jesus for....

Mom: Thank you Jesus for giving me such a wonderful son!

Davis: Thank you Jesus for dying on the cross for my sins!

Mom: Thank you Jesus for my husband!

Davis: Thank you Jesus for not staying dead and is alive!

Mom: Thank you Jesus for giving us food!

Davis: Thank you Jesus for giving food to Masi people!

Mom: Thank you Jesus for giving us a nice bed to sleep in!

Davis: Thank you Jesus for calling us to South Africa!

I am so proud of my boy and feel so blessed to call him my son! To think I wouldn't be having this special moment if Jesus didn't step in and let his own life be taken so mine would be saved! He LOVES us that much!

HAPPY EASTER!

Prayer Journal

2011-04-21T15:41:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago we had a guest speaker that uses a prayer journal everyday and it really got me thinking. So I decided to start one and it was the best thing I could of done. I have been writing in it everyday and it has changed the way I think and talk to God. It has been a powerful tool for my prayer life!

Each day I do four things:

Write at least 5 things I am thankful for from the perious day.
Write words that express what I am feeling for God and in my heart, and what prayer needs I have.
I have 28 people/families that I pray for, so on their day I spend time writing a prayer for them.
Then I pray it out loud and add anything else I feel that I didn't write.

Treasured Gifts

2011-04-20T10:55:00.001-04:00

I have been meaning to share two special gifts that I got for my birthday. I have been so blessed by all the amazing new people in our lives. They have been so loving, caring, and supportive! Recently, I was given two gifts that had meaning for my life. They represent things that God was showing me before I left for South Africa and continued when I got here.

My friend Tersia (staff of All Nations) bought me these flowers for my birthday to go along with a word she gave me the second week of lecture. She came up to me one day to tell me that I am here for a reason and that God wants to continue to bloom me into what He has always intended me to be. When Tersia gave me the flowers the buds weren't open. She went on to tell that this is a beautiful flower that hasn’t bloomed, but it will, and when it does it will be beautiful. Just like the flower I am ready to bloom into something beautiful!

My friend Julianna (staff of All Nations) gave me a painting that she painted of a tree with this Psalm 1:5 on the back. “You’re a tree replanted in Eden, bearing fresh fruit every month, never dropping a leaf, always in blossom.” Julianna had no idea what was going on in my life and yet she thought this would be a perfect gift for me. It is hanging in my room with the verse under it so I can see it everyday and be reminded that God is changing me everyday!

God is doing amazing things in my life these last 3 months and He is far from done. It has been painful at times but I know that in the end it will be so rewarding! My greatest prayer right now is, "God please don't stop until you are done with me!"

School Project

2011-04-19T15:25:00.001-04:00

Davis' first school project

Davis' class was studying countries and we were asked to put a poster together for the USA. I really had fun getting this project ready and teaching Davis how to present it to his class. He did such a great job and he was so proud to show his classmates where he is from!

Selah's Visit!

2011-04-15T11:33:00.001-04:00

We had an awesome visit from Noah's sister these past 10 days. We were so blessed to have her and so sad to see her go!

We are waving at Selah as she gets off the plane!

Selah's welcoming committee!

Their first hug!

Selah with kids in Masi!

Selah giving out candy!

The view from Table Mountain!

Selah taking us out for the night!

Awesome view!

Selah was amazed by the African Penguins!

Where is Davis?

2011-04-01T16:36:00.001-04:00

We put Davis to bed tonight in our bed. When we left the room there was an adorable 4 year old in our bed.

Noah's heart stopped when he came into the room and saw this.

This is where Noah found him! Noah thought it was cute to come running into the kitchen to tell me Davis was gone. Not Funny! Not cute!

Psalm 139 Remix

2011-03-30T16:25:00.001-04:00

We were asked again in class to rewrite a Psalms in our own words. Read this from a few weeks ago:http://triciakaye.posterous.com/psalm-18-remix

I wanted to share what I wrote today. I have been reading Psalms 139 everyday for the last 2 weeks and it is now deep into my heart!

Psalms 139 1:14 Remix:

My dearest Daddy, you have seen the deepest part of me. You know my comings and goings. You see, hear, and understand all my actions and thoughts. Even if I wanted you out of my life, your amazing love and grace would still be there. Why would I leave such unconditional love? You promised to always be here! To guide me, to hold my hand, and hold me close. Daddy, you created me. ME! You create only beautiful and wonderful things. So before I was formed in my mother's womb you decided that I would come into this world as a beautiful person, made in the image of you. You make NOTHING ugly.

My Little Fish

2011-03-28T12:45:00.001-04:00

Davis started swimming lessons a few weeks ago. He is having a lot fun and doing a great job!

See the full gallery on Posterous

Date Night

2011-03-24T16:08:00.001-04:00

This week Davis and I had a "Mommy and Son" date night!

We took our dinner date to the beach!

Yummy hawaiian pizza!

My special boy!

Fun on the beach!

He Knows Me

2011-03-23T14:02:00.001-04:00

I have been reading Psalm 139 over and over again this week. Watch this video and see how much God knows us and loves us.

Another Year!

2011-03-21T16:36:00.001-04:00

I had a great birthday and birthday weekend! My birthday started off with Davis in my arms and 2 Swiss boys and a German boy sneaking into my room to sing Happy Birthday. It was so sweet to hear them singing to me in English!! Breakfast was made for me and a beautifully made sign by our table. I was prayed over and given lots of yummy chocolate and flowers. One of the special things I got to do for my birthday was spend the afternoon with the kids I am mentoring. What a great time!

Here are some pictures of my special day and weekend:

Celebrating my birthday at the Toad with Richard and Bernice!

Yummy Carrot cake!

My favorite South African Lady!

Great new friends to enjoy a birthday braai!

Yummy dessert made by an awesome baker!

My wonderful Hubby who made all this happen and made my first South African birthday very special!

Happy Birthday, Tricia

2011-03-17T11:09:00.001-04:00

Hey, it's Noah here.
Today is Tricia's birthday and I am hijacking her blog. For two reasons.

1. To say how much I love her. This year in particular my love for my dear wife multiplied exponentially as she displayed radical and audacious faith and willingness to follow me and Jesus into whatever we ask. (Ok, so maybe not ME in WHATEVER I ask....but Jesus, nonetheless.) Tricia, you are an inspiring and grace-filled human being. I am humbled by God's grace in bringing you to me and giving me the wisdom to grab you up when I did. You are my treasure for life and I promise to keep loving you like Christ loves the church. Happy Birthday, my bride! Enough mush...

2. I also wanted to share one of your birthday presents with your blog readers and those that follow you online. This is something that Tricia hopes I give her every year. So far, I've obeyed. Enjoy. It is a video I made of the last year of Davis' life. http://vimeo.com/21018211

What is up in Masi!

2011-03-16T15:06:00.001-04:00

I have stared working with a group called "Vulnerable Children (you will see me refer to it in the future as VC)." This organization works with kids that are orphaned and living with a relative or almost orphaned. Each Friday they have a kid's club for them so they can meet the other children and have time for group building and bonding. I have been given an amazing opportunity of mentoring a familly. If you get our newsletter you will be the first to meet them! If you are not email me at tricia.ccf@gmail.com.

Here is my first week at Vulnerable children's Kids Club...

Getting ready for worship!

Bible time!

Play time with the other children!

I am looking forward to this weeks group!!!

Thankful for Technology

2011-03-14T10:36:00.001-04:00

Without technology Grammy and Hatme would not of been able to pray for Davis to get better. Feel so blessed to be able to stay connected to friends and family!

Game Night with the CPxers

2011-03-11T14:59:00.001-05:00

Last week we invited all the CPx students over to our guest house to play games and hang out. We had a blast and had a great laugh!

A night of fun!

A cross-cultural Taboo!

Lots of laughs!

Psalm 18 Remix

2011-03-10T11:52:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago we were asked to pick a passage of scriptures and rewrite it in our own words Then we got in groups of 3 to share what we wrote. One of the ladies in my group reworte Psalm 18 and it was awesome. She gave me permission to share it, so here goes....

Psalm 18 Momma J style:

Lord, your my heart and strength.

You are my safe place, my hero, the safe place I run to.

When I'm in trouble I just holla out your name and you always come.

Everyone wanted to hurt me, the pimps, the tricks, the hoes. Some wanted to kill me.

They all tried to hold me down and make me a slave to "The Game".

But one day, I dared to yell for help.

When I did, the battle trumpets in Heaven were blown and God got "Ready to Rumble!"

He came down and man everything got crazy!

Stuff started flying through the sky and He kicked some enemy booty!

He set this slave free!

He reached all the way down from Heaven to save little ole me!

He knew I had gotten in over my head and I was goin DOWN!

But He said, "Oh no you don't! That's my girl!" And He lifted me up out of my pit and gave me freedom!

You know why? Why He did that for me?

Check this out.... Cause He delights in me! That's right! I make God happy!!!

You know, God, He's perfect. He is a safe place for everyone.

Think about it...are you God? Can you save everyone? Anyone? No. Only He can.

Oh, but He didn't stop there, No! Now He trains me on how to fight for myself.

Now I'm kicking enemy booty and I even get to help Him free other people!

So because He's all that and a bag o' chips...I'm gonna go everywhere and tell them about Jesus!

An Afternoon in Masi

2011-03-09T13:35:00.001-05:00

At the moment we spend 3 days a week in Masi meeting people, playing with kids, and doing DBS (Discovery Bible study). Here are some pictures of one of visits in.

Davis giving away some of his toys!

Davis posing with some Masi Kids!

Noah talking Donald Duck to the kids!

Davis with Oliver (he is part of our house church)!

Big Boy Bike

2011-03-03T14:57:00.001-05:00

Davis' bike broke at school this week. He was given birthday money to buy a bike with pedals, so we went out yesterday and got him a new one. Watch Davis riding his new bike after 2 lessons!

Go Davis!!!

Go Davis!

The Little Things!!!

2011-03-02T12:20:00.001-05:00

It has been the little touches that has helped us feel more at home during our CPx training.

Our little sitting area!

Dresser for storage!

An African All Nation staffer painted this for us. This is one of the many ways he earns money to stay in Cape Town.

Where the 3 of us eat breakfast and dinner!

I went to bed last night and told Noah that I really love our room and so thankful that we are living at this guest house. God gets all the glory!!!

When We Practice Real Love

2011-03-01T15:31:00.001-05:00

"My dear children, let's not just talk about love; let's practice real love. This is the only way we'll know we're living truly, living in God's reality. It's also the way to shut down debilitating self-criticism, even when there is something to it. For God is greater than our worried hearts and knows more about us than we do ourselves." 1 John 3:18 - 20 (The Message)

We talked about this passage in our Bible study this week. It has me thinking about how to truly love people; the way God wants us too. Love is an ACTION not a feeling.

Breakfast at Silver Palms

2011-02-28T16:11:00.001-05:00

I have found a new favorite breakfast cereal. My appetite hasn't been very good lately and I find myself hardly every hungry but I wake up excited each morning to have a bowl of this. It is so YUMMY!

Discipling 101

2011-02-23T15:53:00.001-05:00

I really love living with my house mates. The are a blessing and we are having a lot of fun together. The first week my Swiss friend baked her family bread and I sat and watched her do it. Then she told me that next time she would help me make it. We had a lot of fun doing it.

Cornelia showing me how to braid the bread!

I needed a little help!

I had a great teacher!

The finished product and oh so YUMMY!

After making the bread she told me she was done discipling me and that next time I will bake it by myself. I hope it comes out this good!

Fun at the Beach

2011-02-21T16:16:00.001-05:00

My new German friend (and housemate) and I took our kids to the beach this past weekend. It was a perfect day to play in the sand!

The kids trying to make a sand castle!

Davis playing with a boy from Masi!

Anette and I. She makes me laugh every time I am around her! She is already blessing my life!

Shark Food

2011-02-20T14:23:00.001-05:00

At every beach in Cape Town you will find a flag with a shark on it with a certain color background. Each colored flag has a meaning that has to do with whether or not a shark has been spotted. In my mind I really do not care about what the colors mean. It could say a shark hasn't been spotted for years and I wouldn't be caught dead swimming in the water. NO THANK YOU!

This flag means that a shark has been spotted in the last few hours.

What is wrong with this picture? A shark has been spotted a few hours ago and they are willing to be lunch! :)

What is Wrong with this Picture?

2011-02-20T14:18:00.001-05:00

This flag means that a shark has been spotted in the last few hours.

What is wrong with this picture? A shark has been spotted a few hours ago and they are willing to be lunch! :)

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Living in Community

2011-02-18T15:07:00.001-05:00

It is not always easy or fun living in community. You have to play your part if you want things to run smoothly. Since CPx started I have cleaned many toilets, dishes, pots and pans, swept, mopped, and stacked chairs.

I am very happy to be a part of the All Nation community and I know this is one price I have to pay to be here. God is definitely shaping me in many ways!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-13T14:04:00.001-05:00

I can't believe that Noah and I have spent 13 Valentine's Days together! I have to say that I am more in love with him today then 13 years ago and I was pretty head over heels for this boy. For Valentine's Day we usually just do cards and dinner. Today I came into our room and found two red roses from my two favorite boys and a piece of chocolate. It was so sweet!!! Tomorrow we are going to do something special as a family. Tomorrow is a day of love, so I wouldn't want to spend it any other way then with my two loves!

When I think about Valentine's Day and the people that I love I can't get away from the most important person that I love and that loves me. He Loved me so much that He died for me! So tomorrow when you are passing out Valentine's to all the people you love, remember the one who loves you the most.

“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Leaving at Silver Palms

2011-02-09T14:29:00.001-05:00

Davis totally hates taking a shower at the guest house we are living in. It changes from hot to cold very quickly and this makes him cry the whole time. At week 3 I had to do something so this is what I came up with.

He is Davis' new bathtub! It is really used for bathing dogs but it works for 4 year old boys too!

Along with the 10 YWAMERs, we are also living with two other families. One family from Switzerland with two kids and a German family with three kids. Unfortunately Davis can't understand what they are saying but it doesn't stop him from playing with them. They are having a blast running around and playing with each others things.

Tonight I caught them all in one of the kid's room watching a show. It was so cute to see them all together. They are going to be great friends!!!

Don't Invest in People For a Return

2011-02-08T13:42:00.001-05:00

Life is a journey of learning lessons and healing from past mistakes. God has been doing a work in me for a while now, but at times it never seems done. At times, I have struggled with having unrealistic expectations on people. For instance, when I care for someone or their family, I do so deeply. I makes sure I am available to serve in anyway I can. If a person I care about has kids I will embrace them with deep love. I enjoy serving and being hospitable to people.

That said, I think oftentimes, I am doing it for the wrong reasons. I am investing in them expecting them to return the same caring spirit. So in essence I am expecting them to be me, when I should be giving without needing anything in return. This concept is so hard for me because I too have feelings and want people to reach back, but that is not Christ-like. Jesus spent His days pouring into people and at the end of his life He had no one. If that wasn’t bad enough, He was nailed to a cross for his love.

Noah and I went to breakfast the other day with friends that we met in the states that were moving to Cape Town a month before us. I was sharing some of my story and hurts and the husband (Dave) looked at me and said I have a word for you:

“God does not want you to invest yourself in anyone because investors except profit on their investments. This results in emotional drain when we don’t get it. He wants you to spend yourself on others with no expectation of return.”

This word has messed with Noah and my head since we heard it. He is so right and if I truly love loving people, then I need to let go of my expectations. Why has it taken me so long to get here? I am thanking God everyday for bringing people into my life that are helping me change and grow to be more like Jesus and less like Tricia.

What a Blessing

2011-02-06T07:07:00.001-05:00

This couple has really blessed us since the moment we got to South Africa. Sometimes it takes awhile to know if you are going to click with someone, but this couple stole our heart from HELLO! They have excepted us into their home (many times already), family, and most importantly their hearts. We have connected so well to them as a couple and Noah and Richard have hit it off and I to Bernice. I feel so comfortable around her; like we have always know each other. God knew exactly what we needed and had it ready when we arrived.

This morning I was feeling a bit homesick and wanted to talk to either of my moms, but of course they were busy with their beauty sleep (7 hour time difference) and as I was wishing that, I got a text from Bernice. She was checking in (from China) and seeing how I was doing and sending her love. Again God knew what I needed and he made it happen.

"Thank you Richard and Bernice for opening your lives and heart to us and thank you God for paving the way!"

Monkey Trouble

2011-01-31T15:12:00.001-05:00

This weekend Noah surprised us with a family outing to a place called Monkey Town. We were given a tour around the whole place and got to watch the monkeys play. It was so cool and Davis had a lot of fun. This is definitely a highlight for us.

See and download the full gallery on posterous

A Book to Read

2011-01-27T15:40:00.001-05:00

I read this book this week.

It was a very encouraging and easy read. It made me think about who I am as a women and how God created me to be. Many women have a false idea of how we should be because of past hurt. This book, along with many scriptures, helps reveal God's true intentions. It gave me a lot to think about this week!

God made all things Beautiful!

Home is Where the Heart is!

2011-01-20T13:46:00.000-05:00

You can make a home anywhere you go. We have moved many times over these 11 months and I have tried my best to make whatever space we had (usually one room) home to us. So nothing changed when we got to our TINY room in Cape Town.

Here are our beds. So glad that Davis is back in his own bed. We have gotten our family back into a routine and it has brought us so much peace.

This is our closet and both Noah and my clothes are in there! Davis has his in 2 bins under the bed!

Our Bathroom!

We are getting more and more settled each day and so blessed to be given this opportunity to love and serve people in Cape Town.

Davis'First Day of School!

2011-01-17T13:48:00.001-05:00

Davis all ready for his first day of school. His teacher is Miss Pam. He was excited that his teacher had the same name as his Grammy!

He had an awesome first day and he can't wait to go back tomorrow!

Click here to read about our visit to his school in September.

Get Thee Behind Me!

2011-01-17T03:19:00.000-05:00

We had a prefect flight from the states to Cape Town. Davis was a champ and was able to sleep for most of the flights. When we got to baggage claim we were happy to find all 11 bags unbroken and everything in it. Our friend that we meet in China (he lives in Cape Town) was there eager to greet us, and help us with are bags. What a blessing!

Then the happiness started to fade away when we got to the guesthouse that we are staying at. It is a lovely facility and the owners are so helpful and kind. When we were taken to our room all I wanted to do was cry because of how small the room was. I tried really hard to hold it together. I kept telling myself that I should be grateful to have a bed and running water. Our friend, Richard came into the room and came over to me and said how humble he is to see what we have given up and that God will bless us for this. He put his arms around me and told me this can’t be easy for you as a wife and mother, but know this will be an amazing experience we will never forget. I wiped my tears and got to work on making this room our home for the next little while. We do have a common area with a kitchen, tables, and couches that we are sharing with another missions group.

Our first night we got into bed with a room totally unpacked and I was feeling so much better until about 2am when Davis woke up crying that witches were on his bed trying to get him. He came into our bed and I knew right away he had a fever and that started us down the road of the “24hr stomach bug.” The poor boy was so sick. We couldn’t get him to eat, drink, or get out of the bed. By the evening he was starting to feel better so we went for a little drive.

This drive turned into one more disaster. I had gotten out of the car to look at something and on my way back I tripped and fell very hard on the sidewalk. When I fell my forehead banged right into our car and my legs got scrapped up. I couldn’t believe that pain I was in and I scared the mess out of Noah. I went to bed that night very sore and so ready to sleep off this hard day of sickness, bumps and bruises. Little did I know it was far from done!

I woke up at 6am on Sunday morning with the gift of the stomach bug and I spent the next 10 hours feeling so awful. This was all I could handle for one week! I couldn’t stop crying and all I wanted to do was go home and be in my own bed with my dogs lying next to me. Then I got to thinking, what bed? What dogs? I haven’t had my bed in 11 months or my dogs for 6 months. I am missing something that isn’t there anymore and to top it off I was allowing the enemy to make me second-guess our decision.

In 11 months I haven’t even once doubted and now I am. This didn’t make any sense and I wasn’t going to let the enemy win, NOT now, NOT ever. I prayed and had others pray and today (Monday) we are all well and thinking positive of our call and future. The enemy can get thee behind me because I am not looking back!

Our Contact Information in South Africa!

2011-01-17T03:01:00.002-05:00

Click here to read Noah's post.

Our Farewell Video

2011-01-11T23:16:00.000-05:00

The Sly Candle Girl!

2011-01-01T22:14:00.002-05:00

Year in Review

2010-12-31T20:16:00.001-05:00

Stolen blog from the hubby:

Well, this year officially takes that cake as the wildest, wackiest year yet! It was exactly one year ago that I told Tricia with confidence that the Lord was drawing and calling us to a new season of ministry! Since that confession, it has been a wild ride.

Just for fun, here is the timeline (all in 2010):

January 16th- God crystallized my call to surrender and follow him. I told Tricia we would be leaving CCF.

February 12th- Tricia believed it!

February 26th- After seeking the Lord like crazy, the Lord said that we were to leave our familiar land and move to Cape Town, South Africa.

March through August- Eastern Mennonite Missions (Our sending organization) Acceptance and Preparation Process including budget development and approval.

May 2nd- We announced our calling to CCF, our home church. Click HERE to read the announcement.

September- We visited Cape Town on our way back from a trip to China. You can read some reflections from that trip HERE and HERE.

October 17th- Our last day on Staff at CCF as Pastor. We felt so blessed by our sending.

December 27th- We were at 76.5% of our budget raised for missions! CLICK HERE to read about it. Truly a miracle.

Today- We are making final preparations to depart!

January 12, 2011- We fly out...and the story continues.

God has stretched us, shaped us, taught us, humbled us and led us like never before. Tricia and my faith grew more in 2010 than any other year of our lives, hands down.

Meanwhile people in our lives have loved, supported and blessed us in ways too many to number and too marvelous to describe. We are deeply blessed and we know it! Thank you family, thank you friends, thank you CCF, thank you partnering churches, thank you JESUS!!!!

A we look ahead to 2011, we are envisioning the realization of many of the dreams that the Lord has birthed in us in 2010! Look out. God is on the move!

Noah, Tricia and Davis Kaye

Merry Christmas from the Kayes

2010-12-24T10:34:00.000-05:00

Disney Movie = Bible Lesson!

2010-12-21T23:12:00.002-05:00

I was watching the Jungle Book with my niece and Davis and towards the end of the movie we came to a very touching scene. Later I found myself re-watching this part and being very moved. Listen for the description of John 15:13: "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends."

When I was watching this particular scene I thought about what Jesus did for me. I even took the opportunity to share with Davis that just like Baloo, Jesus laid his life down for a friend (us). With a little bit of effort you can find the positive in every kids movie (among the negatives) and teach an important lesson. We just need to have an open mind and a willingness to see the grey areas.

Focus on the family "Plugged In" helps you find the good and the bad in most movies and lesson that can be learned.

The True Meaning of Christmas!

2010-12-20T23:36:00.000-05:00

There is nothing like watching "A Charlie Brown Christmas" and being reminded about the real meaning of Christmas.

Remember that without Christ we wouldn't have Christmas! Don't forget Him this week.

Logging Off for 9 Days

2010-12-11T09:35:00.000-05:00

Getting ready for our move to South Africa has been a full time job. We have been going nonstop since our last Sunday at our church (October 17th). Every day we have been running full speed and it is wearing on us. Davis is even dreading the moment we get in the car in the morning because he knows the day will consist of many errands that have to be done for our move.

BUT....today we leave on a family getaway with Noah's parent for the next 9 days. We are turning off cell phones, logging off computers, and leaving the long to-do list at home. I am excited to clear my mind and have some well needed family time. It is hard enough to wrap my mind around saying goodbye to the in-laws so the time away will be very special!

So...packing up my things in a suitcase made me happy this time because we are getting 9 days of "mommy and daddy" time. Logging off and will be back on December 20.

Priceless!

2010-12-10T23:28:00.000-05:00

Reading books is one of my favorite things to do with Davis. The other night I pulled out my favorite Children's book and read it to him.

This is the first time I read this book to him. I love the way he is looking at me! The other night when I was reading to Davis and every time I got to the main point: "I love you forever, I like you for always, as long as I'm living my baby you will be," he looked at me just like he did in this picture. PRICELESS!!!

What priceless moment have you had with your child lately?

34 Days & 27% to Cape Town!

2010-12-09T18:18:00.000-05:00

I've said it before and I'll say it again...we are in the middle of a miracle! First of all, the clarity of the call of God on our family has been so strong that it feels like our own miracle of grace in and of itself. We KNOW this is of God like we have never known anything before. He has called us into this season of ministry in Cape Town! But when we looked at the fundraising for this calling, it seemed so daunting and intimidating.

Just for fun, here is the timeline (all in 2010):

February 26th- God called us to leave our familiar land and move to Cape Town, South Africa.

March through August- Easter Mennonite Missions (Our sending organization) Acceptance and Preparation Process including budget development and approval.

May 2nd- We announced our calling to CCF, our home church. Click HERE to read the announcement.

July 15th- We announced the formation of our Missions Support Team. Click HERE to read about that.

August 15th- we officially started fundraising through a mailer to about 400 friends and family. We prayed and trusted God from there...

September- We visited Cape Town on our way back from a trip to China. You can read some reflections from that trip HERE and HERE.

October 17th- Our last day on Staff at CCF as Pastor. We felt so blessed by our sending.

October 24th- We were at 30% of our budget raised. CLICK HERE for that update.

November 15th- We were at 50%. CLICK HERE for that update.

November 30th- We were at 63%. CLICK HERE for that update.

_____________________________

TODAY....Thanks to THESE CHURCHES and Partners, we are at 73%!!

Can you help us get the rest of the way? Will you walk with us this coming year?

CLICK HERE to make a one time gift (tax deductible)!

CLICK HERE to set up recurring or monthly contributions.

Email me at tricia.ccf@gmail.com with any questions about anything at all! We would love to hear from you.

Please join with us in ministry!

Tricia, Noah and Davis Kaye

Peace on earth!

2010-12-06T15:57:00.000-05:00

What does Peace on Earth really mean? Saw this video at a church we were at this week and it captures the true meaning. It is worth your time to watch it.

This years Christmas Ornaments!

2010-12-03T15:22:00.000-05:00

I love personalized Christmas ornaments!!! Every year when we decorate our Christmas tree we go through them and remember the special memories that go along with it. After Davis was born I decided to start a tradition with him. We are going to buy him an ornament every year, and when he gets married we will give him his ornaments for his family tree. I got this idea from a friend that does this for her kids. So each year I pick an ornament that is personal to him and what he is most into for that year.

Click here to read last years blog

This year Davis has been a Buzz and Woody fan so it was fitting to get him this ornament!

I got Davis another airplane this year because he spend 60 hours in one and he got to go around the world.

This year has been a year for transition and we have moved around a lot. I got this ornament because this year we have basically lived out of a suitcase.

Making Lemonade out of Lemons!

2010-12-02T15:35:00.001-05:00

Christmas is my favorite time of year! Every year I can't wait to decorate our house for Christmas, but things are very different this year. We have no house to decorate and I found myself getting very sad. Then we decided to take some lemons and make some lemonade. We are living at my sister in-law Joeley's house and she told us to put a tree up in her basement. I was going to get a 3 foot tree for our room but then we got a skinny 6 foot tree. Davis was so excited to put it up and that helped me get in the spirit. We took time and pulled out every personal ornament and talked about it. It brought joy to my heart when Davis recognized one of his ornaments!

Not looking so good!

Davis putting up one of his ornaments!

The finished product!! Not as pretty as my tree that is in storage, but it is still ours.

What sort of lemonade have you made recently?

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-01T18:16:00.000-05:00

We had an amazing time with Noah's family at the beach this Thanksgiving. I have to say it was the best ever!!

My Niece decorated the table

My boys getting ready to make "Noah's" Pumpkin Pie (a family tradition). Click to read about it.

Uncle Eamon frying the turkey. Yum Yum!

Gobble Gobble Time!

Davis getting ready for South Africa!

Davis and his cousin having fun on the beach!

The kids all dressed up and going out for the evening!

Not going to be easy to say goodbye in 43 days :(

I Am Thankful For.... My boys

2010-11-22T11:03:00.000-05:00

I look at my life during this transition and see how hard it has been and I see the reason I can get up every morning and live day to day truly happy. The main reason is my relationship with Christ but He has given me two more amazing reasons...

They make me so happy!

The greatest gift is "each other"

I was reading one of my favorite blogs, Whittaker Women, and I came across an amazing video. Her husband, Carlos Whittaker, loves taking footage of their children and making great videos with it. He made the best one so far in the video below. He had taken random footage of the family playing around and then his 8 year old daughter came to him and said her heart was telling her something. This is what she told her father...

The greatest gift
Cannot be unwrapped
It cannot be bought
It cannot be sold
Yet
It can be felt
It can be seen
It can be heard

Because the greatest gift
Is each other

Watch this powerful video

The Greatest Gift from Carlos Whittaker on Vimeo.

I am so Thankful for the "Each Other" in Noah, Davis and I. With this I always know things will be ok.! So REMEMBER to be thankful for your family this holiday season because they are the greatest gift!

Miami Zoo

2010-11-14T19:14:00.000-05:00

My sister and Brother in-law took us to the zoo this weekend and we had an amazing time!

Having a blast together!

Taking a swim with the alligator!

Davis was so excited to meet Diego!

Me and my beautiful niece Graciela!

Water time!

My brave boy!

Living out of a suitcase

2010-11-13T10:42:00.000-05:00

I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to visit family before we leave for South Africa but I have to say living out of a suitcase is getting old. You may think we are on vacation and in many ways it feels like it but most vacations I am not homesick for a home I can't go back to and worrying about a budget that needs to be raised. Being with family has helped to soften the blow for us but at times I find myself hurting and mourning for...

Our home
Our kitchen to cook in
Our bed to sleep in
Our family room to sit in
Our dogs sitting on my lap
Davis having his own room

I know God has called us and I know He will work it all out! I know we will have a place to call our own again and that gives me peace and hope.

Not having a home all these months hasn't been all bad because we have been in wonderful homes with wonderful people. So out of the other side of my mouth.... I Am Thankful For a bed to sleep in every night.

I Am Thankful For.... CCF

2010-11-10T17:02:00.000-05:00

I shared this on our last night at CCF but wanted to get it written down. I was 24 years old when we came to CCF. I was scared, lost, and had know idea what I could possible offer anyone at my age or life experience. I quickly found out that I was surrounded by people who loved us where we were at and let us learn and grow as we went through the years. That is what I did these last 7 years and I will be forever grateful!

CCF blessed me by....

Letting me be me
Calling me First Lady (it meant so much)
Letting me lead your children...What a huge honor
Loving us through our growing pains
Trusting my husband to lead
Being gracious for the many changes
Loving our son
Being behind our new vision and call

I am thankful for my church, Capital Christian Fellowship! This church will be forever dear to my heart

Ice Cream Cake Recipe

2010-11-05T07:49:00.000-04:00

Mint Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Crust:
1 pkg (10oz) fudge-covered mint cookies (about 40 cookies), divided
2 tbsp butter, melted

Filling:
1 qt. mint chocolate chip ice cream
1 qt. chocolate ice cream
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1/8 peppermint extract

Prep time: 20 minutes Total time: 7 hours, 20 minutes

1. For crust, place 25 of the cookies in resealable plastic bag; crush into fine crumbs. Place crumbs in a batter bowl. Add butter; mix well. Press crumb mixture into bottom of Springform pan. Place pan in freezer until ready to fill.
2. Line inside collar of pan with remaining cookies. For filling, place mint chocolate chip ice cream in refrigerator 20 minutes to soften. Scoop mint chocolate chip ice cream onto crust. Carefully spread ice cream evenly over crust, cover and freeze 1 hour. Place chocolate ice cream in refrigerator 20 minutes before removing cake from freezer; scoop chocolate ice cream over mint ice cream. Carefully spread evenly and return to freezer.
3. Place cream in chilled mixing bowl; beat on high speed of electric hand mixer until soft peaks form. All powdered sugar and peppermint extract; continue beating just until stiff peaks form. Spread cream over chocolate ice cream. Freeze cake until firm, at least 6 hours or overnight.

This recipe comes from the Pampered Chef, "Festive Holiday Desserts"book and it was oh so yummy!

I Am Thankful For.... God's Provision

2010-11-04T12:38:00.000-04:00

God has been showing me Amazing things these last several months. When we decided to listen and follow HIM, we decided to trust Him completely. He hasn't failed us yet! He is showing up in so many different and awesome ways. I would have to write a book to share. What is amazing me right now, is our fundraising journey. When we left for our Southern trip we were only at 30%, and to "MAN" that seems very low. I started to find myself fearing the impossible but had to pray against it. I am so glad that I keep putting my trust in him because since we have been on our Southern trip we have gotten one or more pledges in each day. GOD is AWESOME!!!

I am so very thankful for God's provision:

“With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26

5 Little Pumpkins

2010-11-03T19:12:00.000-04:00

Davis singing "5 Little Pumpkins" that his Grammy taught him. My boy is getting so big!!!

Homeschooling a Preschooler!

2010-11-02T22:43:00.000-04:00

I never thought in a million years that I would be homeschooling my kid. It isn't because I'm against it but I never thought it was for me or my child. Davis starts school in January 2011 in Cape Town, South Africa, and he and I are very excited about it. January seems so far away for a kid who begs to do school work every day, so I decided to start homeschooling him in September when we left for China. A friend of mine introduced me to this curriculum and I fell in love with it right away. It is so easy to use and they have all the lesson plans written out for you. I have loved every minute of teaching my Davis and having this time with him. He is learning a lot and I am so very proud!

He is some of his school work....

He is recognizing and writing letter Aa - Jj.

He learned how to write his name in 1 week!

He can recognize up to 7.

I Am Thankful For.... The Davis Family

2010-11-01T08:58:00.000-04:00

This month I want to take the time to blog about the things I am thankful for this year. The first one comes from our trip to Georgia this past weekend!

I am THANKFUL for the Davis Family! Since 2002 we have been driving down to Columbus, GA to see Noah's Great Uncle and his family (this is our 8th trip). Noah was very close to his Grandfather, James Davis, and his uncle Gordon is the closest thing to a Grandfather that he has now, and for that matter, Uncle Gordon and Aunt Elsie are the closest thing to grandparents that I have ever had.

We love coming down to see them and at the same time we get to spend time with the other cousins and their children. Our son, Davis is named after this side of the family, and after this visit his name means even more to us.

Saying goodbye this visit was a lot harder than in the past for two reasons...

1. We are moving overseas and it will be a few years until we see them again.
2. Uncle Gordon and Aunt Elsie are really sick and this may very well be the last time we ever see them.

There wasn't a dry eye in their house when we said our goodbyes. My prayer and hope is that we get to see them again when we come home but God may have other plans. If that is so, I know where I will be seeing them next and for that I am so thankful for!

In 2010 I am so very thankful for the Davis Family (all of them)!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T23:37:00.000-04:00

On Saturday we took Davis trick or treating with some family in Georgia.

Our Batman!

"Trick or Treat!"

My two hearts!!!

On Halloween we went to a fall festival at our families church and Davis had a blast!

Woody in the house!

Davis loves playing on moon bounces!

Game time!

Davis playing with his cousin Daniel Davis!

Perfect ending to a wonderful night....Hayride!

The Swinging Monkey!!!

2010-10-29T13:48:00.000-04:00

This week Davis hit a milestone.... playing on the monkey bars all by himself. We were so proud of him and I was so glad I was able to catch it on video. Here is my strong boy!

Be a light this Sunday!!!!!

2010-10-27T23:43:00.002-04:00

On one of my walks this week I noticed that many of the doors in the neighborhood had this on it. I was wondering what it was all about and then I came to a house with a gift basket at their door with the same paper- "We've been boo'ed." I then remembered that my sister in-law's neighborhood does this too and it got my mind spinning.

We, as Christians, talk about wanting to reach our community for Christ and I quickly thought that this idea would be such a cool way to reach out to our neighbors. We could use a so called "Devil's" holiday for something good by "booing" our neighbors with a lovely basket and showing them that someone thought of them and cares about them. You do not know what your neighbors are going through. This could even be a start of some God honoring relationships; loving holistically!

As I was thinking about what a good idea it would be to boo you neighbor, I got an even greater idea. Why don't we use Halloween as a God honoring night? Too many Christians turn their back on this holiday because they will not be a part of a pagan day. We Christians need to stop tripping and turn on our lights and pass out candy to the children that come to the door. We are missing an AWESOME opportunity to spread the gospel. How many times a year are you given the opportunity to have tons of people coming to your door to receive what you have for them? Give them what they want...some candy...and while you are at it, a tract, an invitation to your church or some other creative tool to spread Jesus. You never know what it could do!

It says in the Bible to, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel." God didn't say to go into some of the world or only the world we are comfortable with, but to go into ALL. Our culture celebrates Halloween and this coming Sunday we have a job to do. Go out and transform a world for Jesus.

Countdown to Cape Town (Finance Edition)

2010-10-25T13:14:00.000-04:00

The countdown to Cape Town is on. We are only about 75 days away from departing. But, before we can go anywhere, we have a budget to finish raising.

I plan to share an update on this blog every 1-2 weeks so you knowwhere we are in our fundraising process.

There is a lot that I could share with you about what we have done so far and what our strategies are for the future, but I will spare you all the details and make this quick and to the point.

As of tonight, we are at 30% of the pledges and commitments that we need to depart in January.

This is good news and challenging news.

The good news is...

We are only about 2 months into the fundraising process! And this 30% was reached with a rather small list of donors (so far)!
More good news is that I was a Pastor until 4 days ago and am only NOW free to begin traveling around, meeting with folks, speaking at churches, etc. So, in many ways it is amazing that we are at 30% having done so little of that up to this point.
It is also good news that this 30% includes only ONE church/organizational commitment. This is all individuals who have made one time gifts or monthly pledges. That is good news because as we hear back from churches (we are in strategic conversation with about 15 churches) and travel around sharing, we hope to see churches commit and this number really jump.

The challenging news is more obvious...

We have a long way to go!!
And we do not have a lot of time left!!

_________________

Can YOU help us? Can you partner with us in any of the 3 ways below?

We need prayer! Will you pray for us?
We are looking for financial supporters! Can you support us with a monthly pledge (or a one time gift)? Monthly pledges that spread over two years really help the percentage increase rapidly. (A $500 one time gift may seem huge, and it is! But a $50 a month commitment over two years is $1,200 toward our budget!)
Do you know people, churches or organizations that we might be able to connect with as supporters?

If you are willing to do any of the three things above, would you please email me atnoah.ccf@gmail.com as soon as possible (or message me on FB, leave a comment, text me, call me, whatever)? We would really be encouraged to hear from YOU in the next few days.

I assure you that the Lord is in this calling and that you will truly enjoy watching your investment pay off in the next few years!

Thank you for helping us follow God!

Noah, Tricia and Davis

Chevy's for Mission--This Sunday

2010-10-21T00:07:00.000-04:00

We greatly hope that some of you can make it to Chevy's in Greenbelt this Sunday! Again, THIS SUNDAY from 12pm-3pm, Chevy's Tex Mex Restaurant will donate 25% of your check to our mission! Please come join us for lunch. Not only will it be great to raise funds, it will be even better to see you! Thank you for your support!

Note: all you will need to do is hand your server this little slip that we will provide you.

Are we lukewarm?

2010-10-20T12:41:00.000-04:00

I am reading this book right now and if you have even a small desire to grow closer to God, you MUST read it. It is impacting me every time I pick it up. I only have a few chapters left but I wanted to share one chapter I read that really got me thinking. The title is called "Profile of the Lukewarm."

Francis Chan offered descriptions of what a "lukewarm" person would look like and then would back it up with scripture. You may not like what he has to say, but really search you heart for why. I had to and I can honestly say I have at times been a "lukewarm" Christian.

Lukewarm people attend church fairly regularly because it is "just what we do." (Isa. 29:13)
Lukewarm people give money to charity and to the church as long as it doesn't impinge on their standard of living. (1 Chron. 21:24)
Lukewarm people tend to choose what is popular over what is right when they are in conflict. (Luke 6:26)
Lukewarm people don't really want to be saved from their sin; they want only to be saved from the penalty of their sin. (John 10:10)
Lukewarm people are moved by stories about people who do radical things for christ, yet they do not act. That is for the "extreme" christians not average ones. (James 1:22)
Lukewarm people rarely share their faith with their neighbors, coworkers, or friends for fear of rejection. (Matt. 10:32-33)
Lukewarm people say they love Jesus and that He is, indeed, a part of their lives but only a part. God is only given a section of their time, money, and thought, but He isn't allowed to control their lives. (Luke 9:57-62)
Lukewarm people love God, but they do not love Him with all their heart, soul, and strength. That sort of devotion isn't for the average person; it's only for pastors, missionaries and radicals. (Matt. 22:37-38)
Lukewarm people love others but do not seek to love others as much as they love themselves. (Matt. 5: 43-47)
Lukewarm people are thankful for their luxuries and comforts and rarely consider trying to give as much as possible to the poor. (Matt. 25:34,40)
Lukewarm people do whatever is necessary to keep themselves from feeling too guilty. They want to do the bare minimum to be "good enough" without it requiring too much of them. (1 Chron. 29:14)
Lukewarm people are continually concerned with playing it safe, they are slaves to the god of control. (1 Tim. 6:17-18)
Lukewarm people do not live by faith; their lives are structures so they never have to. (Luke 12:16-21)
Lukewarm people probably drink and swear less than average, but besides that, they really aren't very different from your typical unbeliever. (Matt. 23:25-28)

Are you a "Lukewarm Christian? Have there been times when you fit the mold of one of the above descriptions? We are all "messed up" at times but our main goal as Christians should be to love God and love People.

At the beginning of the next chapter Francis Chan mentions "lukewarm christians' in this way: "As I see it, a lukewarm Christian is an oxymoron; there's no such things. To put it plainly, churchgoers who are "lukewarm" are not Christians. We will not see them in heaven. In Revelation 3:15 -16 Jesus says,"I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm-neither hot nor cold- I am about to spit you out of my mouth."

Is it really worth beginning a 'lukewarm Christian or should we risk it all for HIM?"

Happy Fall!

2010-10-19T15:17:00.001-04:00

Fall is one of my favorite seasons! I love the cool weather and the beautiful foilage. Along with the beautiful of this season, I love all the fun Fall activities. Here are some of the Fall fun we are shared already this month.

Our visit to Green Meadow Petting Farm:

Davis milking a cow

Davis and Joshua found the "runaway" scarecrow!

Davis loved this calf

Us on the hay ride

Pumpkin Patch

Carving Pumpkins:

Davis and his ninja!

Steph and her pumpkin!

Davis took this picture. Cut my finger carving this thing!

The master pieces!!

Patuxent Nursery Fall Festival:

What a beautiful family I am surrounded by!

He loves getting his face painted!

Davis had fun with his cousins!

Best part of the morning!

Highlight of Cape Town: Davis' School

2010-10-14T23:21:00.000-04:00

The first thing we did when we got to Cape Town, South Africa was visit schools for Davis. In one day we saw 5 schools and we fell in love with the last school, Greenacres Pre-Primary School. I was excited to visit this school for several months and when we got on the campus I knew right away this was the place for Davis. It was even more confirmed when I meet the lady (Marcy) who runs the school office. When she turned the corner I thought I was looking straight at my mother. She had the same hair color and length. Same height and body structure and she had the best smile ( I loved my mom's smile). It took everything in me not to cry!

Here are pictures of our visit to Greenacres School

Davis' school building

Don't you love the view?

He played right away with the other kids!

Having fun in the tree the kids are allowed to climb.

Davis' teacher this coming year, Miss Jill

Davis starts his new school January 17 and he can't wait to go!

Who are you really?

2010-10-13T23:39:00.001-04:00

Who are we really? I ponder on this question at times. When I look in the mirror who and what do I see?

Do I see "me" through the eyes of others?
Do I see "me" through the eyes of the Most High?

Shouldn't we see ourselves through His eyes? Isn't that truly who we are? When I start questioning myself about who I am or seeing myself through the eyes of others, I need to look back at His word to remind me of the truth.

Hope these verses bless you like they bless me:

"For you created me inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:13 - 14
"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance to do." Ephesians 2:10
"God saw all that He had made, and it was very good...." Genesis 1:31
"Our God is in heaven; he does whatever please him." Psalm 115:3

Which eye do you want to look through?

This Sunday!

2010-10-12T21:49:00.000-04:00

Click here to read all about this Sunday.

Noah and I would LOVE to see you at either 10:30am or 5:00pm, or both!

2010-10-11T15:06:00.000-04:00

I am tired of cutting Davis' hair short so I have decided to grow it out. Even though I am growing it out, he still needs a hair cut from time to time. Who wants to pay $15 or $20 for a little trim? It's snip...snip...done. That said we changed barbers and the best part is that she is free.

Davis' first haircut from Aunt "Harmony's Barber Shop." I am sorry to say that only family gets this awesome discount!

What a cutie! Thanks Aunt Harm!

My Hero!!

2010-10-10T19:07:00.000-04:00

Today wasn't an easy day for Noah and I (more Noah then me). Lots of things in this transition hasn't been easy but it's what must be done during this time. Today Noah preached his last sermon to the CCF body. Saying goodbye to our church family hasn't been easy and on Oct 24th (our last Sunday) will not be my favorite day. I would like to skip that day but it would only hurt more I don't want to say goodbye. I wish CCF could come with us to Cape Town or Cape Town come to us. Impossible I know but a girl can dream!

These last 7 years I have watched my husband lead a church the best he knew how. Not many 24 year old are giving a lead pastor position and would most likely run from it but Noah didn't. Was he perfect? NO. Did he make mistakes? GOSH YES! Was he the best one for the job? Who knows, but CCF believed in him. For that I am so thankful! Thank you CCF for trusting my husband to lead this amazing church. Noah isn't the same person he was 7 years ago and I am more proud of him then the first day he started at CCF. Noah was stretched, broken, healed, challenged, questioned, at times disliked, and most of all loved. In all of the ups and down he has grown stronger, wiser, and more willing to go after God then ever before.

I could have stayed at CCF for the rest of my life and be very happy but the last year and a half I watched my husband struggle with God about his future. He wants nothing more then to be like Jesus and serve people like Jesus did. How can I stand in the way of that? God is calling Noah/us out to something different. Something far more then us and we are willing to learn. I can go anywhere with my hero, the love of my life, the father of my son, and my best friend. We taught Davis that home is where mommy and daddy are, but for me home is where Noah and Davis are. I can live in a card board box (please God don't) and I will be just fine with my two hearts!

Noah Kaye I am so proud of you! I am more in love with you on THIS day then the day we said "I DO." Thank you for trying so hard to be like Jesus and willing to let it all go. You finished well and God will continue to carry you through whatever journey he has for us.

Gone too Long!!!

2010-10-09T22:35:00.000-04:00

It has been a long time since I have written a blog without stealing from my hubby. Life has been one big ride lately and I haven't had the strength to share my thought or feelings.

Can you believe that in three months we are moving to Cape Town, South Africa!!! Don't worry I can't believe it either.

I have gotten a lot of:

I can't believe you are going to South Africa!
How are you dealing?
I could never do what you all are doing.
Are you sure this is the right thing to do?
You are not really moving. God is sending you a ram soon.
It is weird what you all are going to be doing.
You must really love you husband to follow him like this.
The questions just go on.....

What I have to say to these questions are:

BELIEVE it we are moving to South Africa! :)
I am doing great. For once in my life I am in total peace. Thank you Jesus!!!!
Yes you can do what we are doing if God calls you to go and you listen. He equips His people.
I am as sure as I will ever be and if we are wrong then the doors will not open and that will be ok. It is never wrong to go where you think God is leading you too.
Come on Ram!!! I will take it and love to stay but only if it is God's will.
It may be weird what we may be doing to you, but not to God. If you read the Bible you will see lots of weird things and beside people thought Jesus was weird, so I take this statement as a huge compliment!
I really do love my husband with my whole heart and soul, but I'm not following him but following HIM. He has called all of us (Noah, Tricia, and Davis).

I am so excited for this next journey that God is taking us on and I am ready to lead out of my comfort zone. I am ready to be stretched and molded like Him!

Has this transition be easy? Heavens NO! We moved out of our house, sold over half of our earthly possessions, said goodbye to my dogs (I still cry for them), and we are now living in our 4th home and who knows how many more beds we will sleep in before our plane takes off. I HATE change. Let me say it again, I HATE change, but by the grace of God I am dealing and dealing well. Today as we moved to our 4th home (after getting home from a conference at 3:30am), we were filled with peace and joy with the fact that we have a place to lay our heads every night. Davis had a huge smile on his face when we walk into Miss (Ruth) Roofie's house because he couldn't believe how big her house was and that they had three stairs (he means three floors). Even Davis is ok with this transitions and I am so thankful to Jesus for caring for my family, and for that I am so ready to follow Him where ever He leads us.

Cape Town Ministry-Three Adjectives

2010-09-30T14:34:00.000-04:00

Another good post from my hubby. Promise I will blog soon from my heart and perspective but need time to get back into the groove of things!

Let me make something very clear-- we feel that we only know a fraction of what is to come in this next season of our ministry. We have a deep sense that the Lord is about to change us forever. That said, in our recent trip, we got a small glimpse into what we will be doing.

Here are a few characteristics of the ministry that our family will be doing in Cape Town. Each are particularly different from what we have been used to here.

Active. The great commission says GO! Jesus SENT disciples out to be people of peace and grace carrying the gospel to those in need. Tricia and I have done church where "they come" for our whole lives. Now, we are about to do church "we go"! Literally. Each day, we will go to the neighborhood that the Lord has called us to and GO! Walk, talk, meet, greet, play, love, eat, share, minister and be carriers of Jesus. It will be active, not passive. Yeah, I know it sounds odd. But, this alone will rock you and stretch you. It did us in 2 days.
Holistic. We will enter the neighborhood God is calling us into with a holistic approach. Meaning, that we aim to love people totally. This will look different for everyone. Some will need shoes. Others food. Others a roof. Others counsel. Others to cry. Others to play. Others to be heard. Others to be hugged. Others to be given water. Others to need a ride. Ministering holistically means that you start wherever people let you in....and you pray that the Spirit of God makes them hungry for more. Then, you give them the reason for the hope that lies within you. Jesus! For some this will take a day. Others a week. Others a month. Others a year. Others longer. You wait. You love. You believe.
Specific. The teams at all nations (we will serve on ONE) are about 5-20 in size and are each sent into ONE township (maybe 1,000-40,000 people). And that team is a church. They are sent and called out ones into that town. They love that town! Pray for it daily, fast for it, yearn for it, walk in it, and believe God for it. That is their ministry as a team or "church." They meet to pray, study, disciple each other, play, eat and build relationships (sound like Acts 2?). But their hearts and lives are dedicated to THAT TOWN! It is specific. And they carry the transforming gospel to everyone that will open their hearts in that town. We will go from street to sidewalk to yard to threshold to living room. I have never been a part of a church that loved a single community with their hands, money and hearts...full time called ones into a single neighborhood for the sake of the gospel. This will be too cool! And life-changing.

This is a start. But just there three characteristics alone have the potential to change the way that Tricia and I live, lead and do church for the rest of our lives. And we are not even there yet. This is going to be crazy.

(In the above picture, the guy on the left just surrendered to Jesus 2 weeks ago and the guy in the middle is discipling him.)

Reflections from our trip to Cape Town....Part one of Many!

2010-09-30T14:29:00.000-04:00

I decided to just link Noah's reflection on my blog because it captures my heart as well.

Click here to read....

Our Nomadic 2010

2010-08-06T23:55:00.000-04:00

Noah wrote this post this week and I wanted to share it on my blog.

Have you ever been through something in life where you are not sure whether to laugh or cry? Sometimes it's funny, sometimes it's not...and you just feel torn about whether to laugh or cry? Well, we have felt that way a few times this year.

We have been homeless since April 1 of this year. That's 4 months! And we have 5 to go before we move overseas! That is a total of 9 months of nomadic living!

There are multiple intentional reasons that we decided to do this. You can read more of the rationale by CLICKING HERE.

The dictionary defines nomad "a member of a people having no permanent abode, and who travel from place to place to find fresh pasture for their livestock; a person who does not stay long in the same place; a wanderer." Sounds about right.

Since April we have lived at my Sister, Selah's home and now at the Okanya's home while they are in Africa. August 15, we move to my sister, Joeley's home. September we are overseas and need no home. October we are planning to stay with a dear friend in our church. November, we are traveling south to bid farewell to some close friends and family. December we will likely stay with my Sister, Harmony and eat all her Christmas cookies (oh, wait...we are losing weight, not gaining it).

In all of this, Tricia and I have realized that even after arriving in South Africa, we will remain in transition. We will likely be a family in transition for the next several years. So, we have accepted that we will not really be able to offer Davis environmental stability. As a result, it makes it all the more important that we offer him emotional stability, spiritual stability, and relational stability. Over the last few weeks, we have taught him to memorize this statement: "Home is where Mommy and Daddy are." If you ask him where home is, he will tell you.

We welcome your continued prayer...for the days that we laugh because this is crazy and for the days that we cry because this is hard!

Art Project

2010-07-29T20:46:00.000-04:00

This week Davis and I made a collage of a bunch of pictures we cut out of a South African magazine that we got at their Embassy a few weeks back. Davis had a lot of fun gluing the different animals, places, and food on the poster. He was very excited to show his dad what we will get to see when we move to Cape Town. Every few days he is asking if today is the day that we are moving there. I pray he hold that excitement!

About EMM

2010-07-26T10:03:00.000-04:00

We are official and have an account opened at Eastern Mennonite Missions! For all of you waiting to start sending money, mail it to:

Easter Mennonite Mission
PO Box 458
Salunga, PA 17538

(Vision packets will be in the mail soon!)

Our Family Passage!

2010-07-20T14:05:00.002-04:00

Last month, we had lunch with an older couple that we love very much. They have served in ministry for their entire lives. Before we left, they wanted to read and proclaim a passage of scripture over this next season of our life and ministry. They proceeded to read Colossians 1:9-12 as we hung on every word. Examine this:

Be assured that from the first day we heard of you, we haven't stopped praying for you, asking God to give you wise minds and spirits attuned to his will, and so acquire a thorough understanding of the ways in which God works. We pray that you'll live well for the Master, making him proud of you as you work hard in his orchard. As you learn more and more how God works, you will learn how to do your work. We pray that you'll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul—not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy, thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that he has for us.

We have adopted this as our family passage to guide us as we prepare for this next season. It is a truly a beautiful proclamation of our hope!

Missionary Support Team Formed

2010-07-15T22:31:00.000-04:00

Eastern Mennonite Missions (EMM) has blessed and impressed us over the last several months...far beyond our expectations. It is obvious that they pay major attention to ensuring that we are prepared to live out our call. We have been through loads of paperwork and process in the last months. They have cared deeply about each step.

One of the things that EMM requires is that we form a Missionary Support Team (MST). This is a group of people with an interest in and love for a missionary, and they serve as a vital link between the missionary, the supporting home community, and EMM. The MST leads and walks with us through the discerning, fund raising and sending process with EMM.

There were like 50-100 people that we would have loved to ask, but we were limited in our selection. Here is our team:

Sadie- Chair
June- Co Chair
Ruth- Treasurer
Barbara- Prayer Coordinator (leads prayer network)
Lia- Child Advocate (always thinking of Davis)
Abiola & Jaye- Church Communicators & Newsletter Managers
Lacreshia- Small Group Representative
Nelson- Pastoral Rep and CCF Missions Overseer
Pam & Joe- Family Representatives
Harmony- Sister, Family Rep and Fundraising Event Planner
Paul- Local Pastor and Strategic Connections
Tracy- Friend Representative

The idea with this group aligns with the Ecclesiastes 4 concept that a cord of 3 strands is not easily broken. Here are the strands in this missions sending:

1. The Missionary (Noah, Tricia and Davis)
2. EMM (Missions Organization)
3. CCF (Spiritual Community)

We will meet approximately 1-2 times per month from now until we leave for South Africa, then they will meet without us after we leave. This team has already been wildly supportive! Amazingly humbled by the love we feel.

Just wanted to share how we are being cared for...

It is VBS Time!

2010-07-15T12:51:00.003-04:00

CCF get ready for a new VBS adventure called Trading Places. This summer we will be embarking on an exciting world tour to visit exotic places and find out how kids all over the world can worship the same God. we will travel to Mexico, Brazil, Poland, China, and Kenya!

At each destination, we will encounter the children who live there and learn some fascinating stories about their cultures through awesome music, cool Bible lessons, fun crafts, and thrilling games. You’ll hear exciting stories about how one traded their old life for a new one. We think you’ll find, as you travel each day, that Jesus Makes a World of Difference!

Here are the fives points the kids will learn:

Be Loyal
Be Real
Be Brave
Be Ready
Be Changed

Vacation Bible School will run from Sunday, July 18th - Friday, July 23rd. Your kids will not want to miss it or their friends. So Bring a car load! Let's all get our PASSPORTS READY!!!

To register for VBS at CCF, email me at triciakaye@capitalchristian.org or call 301-262-7008.

You do not want to miss our Friday night VBS closing. It is going to be a hit!

Weight Loss for Missions!

2010-07-13T09:44:00.003-04:00

Click here to read Noah's blogpost!

Fun at Six Flags!!!

2010-07-08T09:45:00.000-04:00

Davis and I had a "Mommy/Son Day" and we packed up and spent the day at Six Flags. We had a great time together even though it was very hot.

Waiting in line for a train ride!

All aboard Diesel!!!

Posing with Thomas!!!

Another cute pose!!!

Cooling down in the Thomas play area!!!!

Then we hit the water park!!!

We were so tired when we got home that we took a three hour nap and then we felt refreshed to finish our "Mommy/Son day!"

The night ended with Davis taking Aunt Bird and I out on a dinner Date!!!!

The reason for it all!

2010-07-06T16:06:00.001-04:00

This hasn't been a easy week for me as we prepare for our next chapter as a family. I find myself wishing for my old life back so I do not have to feel the pain, to be scared of the unknown, or have to say goodbye to anything or anyone else. Then I am reminded of this verse: Luke 9: 23: Then He said to them all:"If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me."

As much as I want my old life back, I know there is no turning back. I am stepping out of myself and putting my life in my Father's hand. I need to give myself away so He can use me. I keep coming back to this song from William McDowell "I Give Myself Away." It has become my theme song for this new chapter in our lives. I am very excited for this next stage of ministry but I need the reminder sometimes!

I Will Miss Them

2010-07-05T10:55:00.003-04:00

I knew the day was coming but I never prepared myself for it actually happening. Noah, Davis, and I have had to say goodbye to a lot of things already in preparation for our move to South Africa. Even though we know God is calling us, it hasn't made it easy for us to say goodbye.

This weekend I had to make a very difficult decision and one I wasn't ready to make. I came to grips a few months ago that I couldn't bring my puppies with us to South Africa. I had a lot of tears just thinking about it.well, this weekend we found them a good home and our friends wanted to take our dogs back to South Carolina with them. I wanted to keep my dogs with me as long as possible but we have such a heavy travel schedule before we leave, that I wanted to be fair to my pups. Yesterday afternoon, after 6 years, I said goodbye to my two dogs Miles and Colby. :(

Miles and Colby have brought our family so much joy and I am going to miss them deeply. This has been then hardest thing for me so far during this transition, and we are not even close to being done. I have experienced so much loss in my life and I have gotten through it and I know I will get through this, but right now my heart is aching with loss again.

First Day we got Miles (June 2004)!!!!

My little cuddle bug!!!

First day we got Colby (Jan. 2005)!

His first play in the snow!

Miles and Colby you are going to be missed. Can't wait to come visit and give you lots of hugs and kisses!

Father's Day Cards!!!

2010-06-19T22:32:00.000-04:00

It is so hard shopping for Father's day cards these past three years. I wish I could buy my dad one and mail it to heaven. There is so much I want to say to him and so much I want him to say to me. Through this whole transition process (our move to South Africa) all I have wanted to hear from him is...

"Go and be faithful!"
"I am proud of you!"
"I am behind you 100%!"
"Don't forget that you are a daugther of a King, so stop worry about the What, Where, When, or How!"

I miss you daddy and I love you very much. Can't wait for the day when I can be in your arms again!!! Happy Father's Day!!!

While we were away in Albany we took Davis to the cemetery to show him my parent's grave. It was very emotional for me, but I was so glad that I took Davis and had the opportunity to explain where Papa Ray and Grammy Judy are. It brought me comfort having my two favorite boys with me.

Davis' new bed

2010-06-12T16:53:00.000-04:00

Davis has had a lot of transition these last few months so we didn't press the issues with him sleeping in our bed very much. At the moment we are living with Noah's sister (before we move to South Africa) and all three of us are sharing a one bedroom room. We of course have use of the rest of the house, but all our earthly belongings are in one room.

Back to Davis in our bed! He has been there for months and we wanted to break the habit but decided to hold off because of our move to Selah's. So night after night he was in our bed. He use to go to bed by himself but that quickly changed to going to bed with us and one of us having to tickle his back to get him to fall asleep. Don't ask!!! This needed to stop, so three weeks we got him a bed and he got to pick out his own sheet set. We told him that he would get a sticker every night he goes to bed by himself and that got him very excited. He has finished his first challenge and now on to the second. We are so proud of him and he hasn't given us any problems with bedtime, but I have to say I wake up every morning with him curled up next to me. That will be the next thing we tackle!!!!

He loves his Toy Story Bed!!!

Annie's Playground

2010-06-09T22:18:00.000-04:00

Last week Davis and I went with a friend of mine to Annie's Playground in Bel Air, MD. It was a really cool playground and the boys had a lot of fun. This little girl was struck and killed by a drunk driver when she was five years old. Her family and friends decided to raise the funds and build this playground in her honor. Very sad but this family took a tragic situation and made something good come out of it. This would be a fun family outing!!!