Farmers Market Adventures & Metropolis Ramblings

Happy Sunday everyone!

As many of you may know, I love farmers markets. I pretty much think they are the most economical, wonderful way to get amazing produce. Some people shop them for reduced "carbon footprint" and others shop them in order to get local stuff. I agree with both-but I love the thrill of the hunt. Yesterday the roomie and I headed downtown (a most confusing area) to reap the benefits of the Dallas Farmers Market (dallasfarmersmarket.org). I have researched this place since I knew that I was coming to this wonderful southwestern metropolis.

Anyway, what did I find?? Wonderful amounts of tomatoes, peppers, all types of lettuce, fresh meat, and amazing fruits. I pretty much could have squealed over all the beautiful colors...and the prices! Due to the fact that I have been to the grocery store ALOT since moving, I didn't really need much, but I settled for berries, asparagus, and herb plants.

Needless to say this was quite a nutty nutrition gal sort of adventure. Anyway, I am starting my dietetic internship tomorrow. Though it will be strange to enter the "real world", I am so grateful that I am almost a registered dietitian. My whole move and the doors that open here are only God's grace. For that I am grateful.

Much Needed Update-New Adventures in the Big D!

Greetings Folks!

I am all settled in a wonderful apartment in the metropolis of Dallas. Thanks to my parents and brother who were super helpful during the whole moving process-a huge task!

God has provided an AMAZING roommate-joyful & full of faith. I am so appreciative & excited.

My dream of living in a thriving and bustling city is certainly coming true. Today was my first day at the hospital where I did alot of preliminary stuff-paperwork, etc. Working in a hospital with over 800 beds (huge) promises to be a great but huge learning experience. I get a whole week before I officially start so the roommate and I are off to adventure, try churches, etc.

Thank you to everyone who has been so kind to pray, text, Facebook, and think of me during this time! More to come from the Lonestar state!

Ministry, Mudlick, and Moving

I could start by the generic usual "it's been a great week..." which it has, but a week of decisions, change, and realizations. I love the people of Appalachia, the work we do, and the change I see in those who come for a week of training here. I sincerely doubt that my life will ever be this simple again-I mean that in a very good way. This summer has been no frills, no nonsense, but a summer of purpose: to serve and love people the way Christ intended.

Along this journey, I feel that God has shown me the reality of ministry...the good, the bad, and the ugly. (Yes, ugly does occur) What do these elements mean??

Good: God equips everyone with many different gifts...from administration to music, serving, and the ability to work with all groups of people. For the first time in my personal life, I have seen thirty staff members come to Appalachia with diverse backgrounds, ideas, and talents. We have an excellent band, leaders for all areas of ministry from construction to kids, and support personnel. Therefore, my eyes have been opened. God's providence has once again proven true and a great team has been born. Additionally, in the ministry we see many wonderful things happen: people come to know Christ, lives impacted in Appalachia by the ministry teams, and our fellow servant leaders as we learn to walk closer to Christ (and we mature!)

Bad: Sometimes ministry allows you to get so wrapped up in perfection, performance, and numbers that you forget your purpose...to exalt and share Christ. Often little intereferences come in from attitude to lack of planning-all of which can cause frustration.

Ugly: People will criticize you and desire to revamp your ministry. Literally, instead of people encouraging you, they desire to tear you down...from the style of worship to the food. It is generally selfish stuff that you encounter: personal preferences, "the way we do things"..., and mostly ideas that people conjure up from their own minds (not from God's). Please note that this is not frustration post but one of reality.

Though I often believe that I will continue to serve God in some type of established ministry (not sure about the mission field yet), I am so thankful that this summer has taught me these important lessons. What you see at your church, your youth camp, and your mission trip requires much work, prayer, and Jesus seeking time-if not, something is probably wrong.

Anyway, those are the ramblings from my summer of ministry-to God be the glory!

I am pleased to announce a follow-up to my Mudlick post from a couple of weeks ago. I now have pictures and personal testimony...Mudlick is unique. A sort of Christian commune started in the 1960's, this church looks like a house. In fact, it was for quite awhile. Families lived and worshiped in this place...and when a house burned, the foundation was literally used as a basketball goal-pretty cool. One of the most beautiful countrysides I have ever seen, this community does not have visitors...from very curvy roads to beautiful fields-what a treat! Pictures to come-ASAP!

On moving, I am set to head out to the Big D and move-in August 1st. God provided a great place for me to live-so thankful! I will send out change of address cards upon arrival!

Please pray for this ministry as we enter the 7th week of working with our students and adults. May we keep our eyes on Jesus-the only sustainer and lead with integrity.

Taco Tuesdays

We have embarked on week 6 of BCM 2009. Many lessons have been learned, many suggestions have been made, and God has been so faithful-in countless ways.

A wave of encouragement has come to "Hannah's Manna" cafe this week. I am pleased to work alongside 3 wonderful ladies from East Tennessee and one from Illinois. This week Ms. Rita has come in & shared her caring and beautiful heart with me. Born and raised in Germany, Rita met her husband in the 1950's during a military conflict in her country (he was in the US service). Little did she know that God would bring her to the beautiful Smokey Mountains to raise her family. Few people have reminded of me of my granny (who passed away in March of 2002), but Ms. Rita has loved me and has treated me much like a granddaughter-what a sweet encouragement! So far we have succeeded in barbequing our 245 pieces of chicken-I even got to connect with a student during grilling-what a great opportunity!~

Today we are making the famous Tuesday Mexican dinner. At this point of the summer I am simply sitting back and working alongside my kitchen help-God has allowed me to learn SO MUCH that will truly help me in my career and home life.

Seasons of Life, The Big D, and Encouragement

My blogging life has been on hold while my parents and brother have been spending the week here at Big Creek. Lots of great things have happened since last week! First, I am so thankful for the encouragement and support that I have received from the "home" church, Eastanallee. From their visit this past week to all the encouragrams from the college/career group, I have felt so loved and cared for-thank you so much!

Today we are all taking a break-Kevin closed Big Creek for the 4th of July and sent us home until tomorrow. This has allowed for a wonderful time of reflection over the amazing events that have taken place thus far.

What was this past week like??? Well, first I must thank my parents who gave up a week of normal life, school, and career to help me feed ~210 people. A week like this requires being in the kitchen from 5AM-7:30PM...with few hours to sleep or do much else. They supported me, had lots of patience, and were highly attentive and willing to do anything I asked. It was also a joy to share time, laughs, and worship with my parents.

This week we clearly saw God in so many ways. First, this week God sent multiple encouragers to influence both the staff and then the entire camp. Encouragement is truly contagious...that is definitely what we saw across the week. Something that is so cool about Big Creek is the diverse groups that God brings to us...from all across the United States. Mr. Dan from Oklahoma helped me and the parentals every morning with breakfast. He brought a group of students that blessed us in their love, their enthusiasm, and the fact that many of the students had never been out of Oklahoma.

Our Macon, Georgia group was led by Billy. Mr. Billy was a constant, minute by minute encourager. He just started this church in January-but what an awesome group that he brought. Even when they were on post-dinner dish duty they were happy. (WOW!) Also, a wonderful group from Knoxville did many encouraging things...especially mopping the entire kitchen/serving area floor to perfection.

Please pray for the upcoming week. We are still trying new methods of reaching the children of several different areas. Also, maintaining relationships formed with our homeowners that we ministered to is key!

In my "post-Big Creek" news...my new roomie is heading to the Big D this week to check out grad school and apartments. Pray that we get a great place to live with good neighbors. I also officially have paperwork started with my dietetic internship...God is amazing. This summer I have seen that each of our gifts, talents, and desires can be ministry. Even a girl with a heart for cooking, nutrition, and working with people can fit! In this way, I am praying that God continues to show me what career path/specialty of food and dietetics that I should go toward. My internship allows me to work with adults and children in ALL medical areas-pretty cool. So far I have truly enjoyed pediatrics and adolescent counseling. Missions and malnutrition also go "hand-in-hand"...so that may be a future venture. Anyway, I simply want to run with my mat and love others with the love of Christ.

Cup of Joe + Big Creek Celebrity

Good Tuesday!

We have officially made it to week 4 of our summer adventure. This week is especially exciting because our group from the Nashville area brought us a whole shopping bag of various Starbucks coffee. (I consider this a gift from God-no kidding)

What is the latest news here at Big Creek?? Lots of awesome stuff going on here! Last night 3 homeowners that we have worked with recently came to our worship service. It is so cool that we can connect with people in such a short period of time (typically 2-3 days tops)! Please do not think that we simply have the goal of bringing them here for numbers sake...we want to love these people, share Jesus with them, and share community with them. James and Will (the guys they have worked with) did an awesome job-I am so proud of these guys for leading in such a Godly way with integrity, generosity, and example!

In food news-I made this strawberry danish stuff from leftover pancakes (as the crust) with a cream cheese, sugar, and strawberry mixture topping. Pretty yummy for breakfast. Growing up my mom always challenged us to be frugal and stretch food to its farthest potential. Little did she know that I would be cooking here at Big Creek Mission. Pictured below is my attempt at using my resources: Big Creek Breakfast Cass(erole).

What is this made of??? Leftover hashbrowns & fries, slightly browned rolls, leftover sausage, mustard, cream cheese, eggs, milk. Yum. A staffer favorite! Simply layer the potatoes, bread, and meat. Then pour the creamy egg mixture on top. Bake @ 350 for ~20-30. Top with cheese

Yesterday I had the privelege of riding around with our video guy Tony. He occasionally lets me catch a ride to the hills and hollows where our ministries are taking place. Below are a few pics of the day! On every adventure I go on, I love the road signs and random stuff I learn. One big thing about the hollows is the interesting way everything is spelled...never can know exactly how the natives pronounce it. I pretty much love Kentucky though-the mountains, the simplicity, and the fact that we can share Jesus and His hope with people through relationship. Yesterday on the journey that Tony and I took (to Yeaddis, KY) we visited a roofing site...where a widow lived. It was pretty cool to see the team working so diligently. However, I won't lie-I was super pumped about visiting the lady. I pretty much wish I could go to all the construction sites and connect with the families. Anyway, this particular home was one of fairly simple repair. Jacob's team was making excellent progress and I had to see what I had heard of the night before. This widow was in her late 80's and had lost her husband in March. Married almost 65 years, she was very eager to show off her kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids. Wow. She also had this super feisty dog who doesn't like men. Hm. Anyway, we bonded and I immediately saw her loneliness. Sometimes I forget that having someone to talk to is half the battle in older age. Anyway, I promised her a visit again soon...so I am taking the kitchen ladies to visit tomorrow! Please pray that we would not overwhelm her but simply love her and care for her. In James 1:27, the Bible says "Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world." Since March and my stay in the Tijuana Christian Mission, this verse has been very near to my heart. I love being a part of what God loves & commands for us to do. I think the coolest part is coming out of my works-based faith ideas. My adventures this past year have focused on relationship building...sometimes this is painful, discouraging, and frustrating. However, in the case of the orphans and widows, the Lord has broken my heart for His people. May I not be about what I can do-but what God provides and allows. Please pray for my team tomorrow (Friday) as we go visit!

Also, I would like to share that I now have a facebook group in honor of the kitchen called "Let's Give it Up for Hannah". Mostly humorous-but the other staffers are jealous. God has brought some great students into the kitchen to hangout. I am so thankful!

It's a Beautiful Thing

Happy Father's Day!! Yesterday, after waking up to clean at bit here at the Big Creek Mission, myself and two leadership assistants (temporary interns) went down to Knoxville. Both SLA's had served their terms and I was attending a wedding near the mountains. It was fairly weird to go back to a large city-multiple food, grocery, and entertainment options. Anyway, this day was all about the wonderful relationship of one of my nearest Nutrition friends, Sarah. I met Sarah the first day of my sophomore year. We spent hours studying, talking, sharing life stories, and working in class daily. Her new husband Matt is one of the best guys I know-a very loving and gentle soul. Sarah had asked us (Laura, Heather, and myself) to serve as program attendents-a job we really had fun with.

Sarah and Matt choose beautiful strings to play numerous songs from "Amazing Grace" to "Canon in D". Their day was focused on Christ, His love, and the love that they share. It was absolutely precious! Additionally, I got to spend time with some of my best friends from college. Heather (in the middle) and I maintain a very close relationship and Laura (very left) is moving near the Big D in the fall-so exciting!!!

To top off the day, I spent time with my Bible study from college. I had walked life with these beautiful girls for three years-we have shared many tears, laughs, a wedding, and lots of other excitement. God truly blessed us in bringing us together to walk life. Second Thessalonians 1:3 "We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other." We all know that God is growing us, moving us, and shaping us. I wish all of them the best as we move and change in life!

Week 3 was full of excitement, Jesus, and work. We were priveleged to have many students from Ohio, Kansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky. Daycamps continued to have more children. Friday, our local daycamps came for Carnival Day here at Big Creek. We had all sorts of exciting messy games-a slide filled with spaghetti noodles at the bottom, face painting, and lots of other excitement. This week I really felt more exhausted than usual-but I learned to have more dependence on Jesus. God brought a wonderful group of women to help me in the kitchen also. I had the pleasure of working with a former social working (with mean grilling skills), a teacher who grew up as a missionary kid in Mexico City, an RN (also the youth leader's wife), and the associational secretary (who is a great organizer)! What fun & blessings! Thank you all for ALL of your work-it blessed 230 people!

God continually teaches all of us things-we must take the time to listen and learn about Him. Kevin is teaching from John all of this summer. People often think that we (staffers) get tired of hearing the same sermons each week. However, I have learned something new every week. In John 5, Jesus has just performed a miracle. A man who was sick for 38 years is approached by Jesus for healing but he makes excuses. Eventually Jesus cures this sick man and tells him "pick up your mat and walk". (verse 8) This man walks but with much opposition. Too many people are upset about the legalism that ensues-the Jews tell this man (who was just healed) that it is sinful for him to work (walk with his mat) on the Sabbath. However, Jesus encourages Him to walk on. Eventually, the Jews try to use this as evidence against Jesus in His last days. Anyway, I wonder if I am aware of areas that I don't pick up my own mat?? How many excuses do I make to Christ?? Am I willing to take a challenge and follow Him-even when it gets really uncomfortable?

A Little Rocky Top in Bluegrass Country

Greetings All!

I hope this post finds you prepared for a great weekend. We are finishing our 3rd week of campers here at Big Creek Mission-what an awesome time we are having. As of this week, 20 campers and chaperones have come to know Jesus here at our mission. (Not including the people we have met in our ministry sites!!)

Last night we were invited by the mayor of Hyden, KY to join the city for bluegrass night. I cannot tell you when I have had a more exciting & authentic experience. First, the staffers and I were so delighted that we actually had the night off to go & have some fun...we karoaked George Strait all the way to Hyden. (Staffer Blake likes "Ride" by George Strait in honor of my move to the Big D) The mayor had informed us that this pickin and grinin would be occurring at the skate park (yes...Hyden is pretty radical)-however, the location was wrong. We actually ended up in the downtown auction hall. What an experience. 8 people played guitar, mandolin, & banjo. I insisted that we sit on the 2nd row...basically it was amazing. Eventually we requested "Rocky Top" (my alma mater) and needed singers. Therefore, I felt highly obliged to provide the words along with my two other counselor friends Laura and Lacy. What a fun time-we just got right up there and sang along...except when we forgot the girlfriend verse. These Wildcat fans didn't seem to really care. I also got really excited and would cheer in the middle of every verse. What can I say?? I love my team. We had to leave early because Lacy has lost her sword (her Bible) and thought it would be in Hyden where she leads daycamp. Anyway, last night was alot of fun.

Every week brings some new excitement. This week I was able to spend time with many special students. One sweet middle-schooler came all the way from Kansas to serve here at Big Creek. Not only did she have some medical complications, homesickness definitely got the best of her. Therefore, I spent one whole day getting to know her. I keep learning alot about kids, counseling, and the importance of relying on Jesus. It was great to just chat, bake an amazing cake (pictured below), and wrestle through the joys of middle school. I think the sweetest comment I have gotten all summer was "I am really surprised you don't have a boyfriend-you are so sweet." (I personally think that I am not too sweet!) Background-all middle schoolers are concerned about your love life. Seriously. I got the chance to share with her that right now I am relying on God-for a long time I struggled with self-image, boys, and feeling "left-out." God just provided a little nugget of time with this sweet girl and I wish her the best as she returns to 7th grade in Kansas.

In other news, I have neglected to thank some wonderful encouragers in my life. The Rock college group at Eastanallee sent me the kindest yet humourous card ever. I love it-I keep it in my Bible & look at it often! Also, I have received some wonderful encouragrams from Alison, Rev. Randy, and the parental units. These acts of kindness are SO helpful! Thank you!



As part of the nutrition nerd within me I love grocery stores...but not in Kentucky. The nearest Kroger is 45 minutes away, so I always settle for the IGA (not my favorite) or Super Walmart (also not my favorite). However, this is simply part of the culture-I am learning to accept it. Kentucky is one of the most unhealthy states-especially the eastern Appalachian part. I have found lard here...but the best part is the encouraging signage-note in the picture dietetic food. Who would want to go down this aisle??? Dietetic food sounds gross. Anyway, I have found the most charming Amish market in Manchester, but state regulations do not allow Big Creek to purchase foods from uncertified places-including local farmers stands. Sad.



This is a picture of the Sunday dinner crew. Maryn is on theleft-she is a community counselor from Florida. Lacy (my dearest counselor friend) is on the right. Lacy has brought alot of accountability and encouragement in my life. Please pray for her as she starts the daycamps at Mudlick Church of the Brethren (and she needs to find her sword).

I could not leave out a picture of the best spot in the kitchen-the laboratory. I truly appreciate my parents for sending up the "big red" Kitchenaid and the wonderful "Cake Doctor Cookbook". My life has improved drastically with my Kitchenaid-thanks Mom & Dad. More to come!

Adventures at MudLick Church of the Brethren

Hello from the remote parts of Appalachia!

~230 students, adults, and staffers from Kansas, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Ohio are joining us for a week of missions, Jesus, and fun! Lots of excitement has ensued...where to start??

First, this week I am pleased to blog that I have 4 wonderful ladies from Ohio as my kitchen crew. We have had a blast-from trips to Hazard to cooking lots of Mexican food last night!

Events?? Well, our Manchester day camp outreach is not going as planned...we have the goal of reaching alot of children but we haven't yet tapped into the holler population. (Seriously). This awesome youth guy (local youth pastor) is helping Big Creek find the unreached...at Mudlick Church of the Brethren. (No exagerration...I am absolutely eager to visit Mudlick Church of the Brethren.) According to my dearest counselor friend Lacy, Mudlick Church was started in the 1960's by a group of men literally known as the brethren. So yes...more to come.

Tonight we are heading to Blue Grass night in Hyden.

More pics, Jesus stuff, and info to come!

God Maps

Good Morning! Preparations are in place for week 3 @ Big Creek Mission. Part of my challenge in blogging is expressing humor, life experiences, and what God is doing in my life & here at Big Creek.

Throughout my college career, God brought many special & unique people in my life. Jenn and I shared alot of talks and study time during my junior year (possibly the hardest in the nutrition curriculum). During this year we talked alot about our walks with God, the future, and the big subject in dietetics-the dietetic internship. This dietetic internship (which I will be starting in less than two months) entails alot of work for admission : 500 hours of experience, excellent grades, leadership, and recommendations. (Enough for a young woman with little confidence and shaking faith to cringe over)

Anyway, throughout this year, at times of anxiety, I would simply draw a "God map". I would literally start at the inititation of my college career and progress to where I was at currently, where I saw God in my life. Included were all of the people God had brought in to my life, my professors, church stuff, and ways that I saw God move. So I was thinking about one for Big Creek...here it goes:

(1) Randy Singleton becomes that music minister at EBC (I was one of the "signs" of the Singleton's coming- a really awesome God story)

(2) Singletons and my family become friends while I am at Tennessee. Chaperone backs out for Big Creek trip-I have the week off from ETCH-I chaperone at Big Creek (July 08')

(3) I am preparing to graduate in February of 09' and look for summer jobs. Apply at Wellspring weight loss camps, Camp Living Stones, and inquire about Big Creek. CLS is full, Wellspring offers me a position as nutritionist at their all girls camp in NY, and Big Creek doesn't give me a definite. I tell my Bible study that I am probably going to NY. God has other plans.

(4) April 09'-meet with Kevin and Katie (Big Creek leadership) and discuss summer 09. I still think that I am going to NY. In the end, I felt very guided toward Big Creek. Obtain dietetic internship in Dallas, still not sure about how all of life will work out.

(5) May 09'-move to Appalachian KY. God is moving. He provides daily what I need. Two of my former YOKE youth ministry come to Big Creek-seeds planted are now growing. Wow. Also, God provides Christian roommate for Dallas-who is assisting with apartment details. (Major answer to prayer). God is continually bringing new people into my life-encouragers, those who need encouraging, and many beautiful, unique children of His.

God mapping is not really new. In Hebrews 11, we can trace the faithful followers of Jesus throughout history. As God provided & they were faithful, they impact the believers to this day. Hebrews 11:6 "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him."

My hope is that I continue to have an increase in faith, that I would look for God in all things, and that He would be exalted.

I encourage you to try a God map-He is awesome!

News from Hannah's Manna

Hello All! We had a great week 2. Many people accepted Christ, children's lives were transformed, and many students saw poverty in America for the first time.

My camera is not functioning well-no pics today. However, I have lots of great stories & info to share.

First, God provided (once again) in giving me excellent kitchen help from Georgia and Indiana. On Sunday evening it looked as though I would have only 1 person, Denise, from Macon, GA. Considering it takes ~3-4 people to cook, clean, and prep for 230 people, I was quite concerned. However, after dinner on Monday, Cody (from IN) volunteered to be our second official helper-what a relief & Godsend! A whole gang from Lenior City, TN came to assist with breakfast! It was so cool for God to send a plethora of people & personalities to help me for all the meals. I often feel mentored and encouraged throughout the week by these wonderful adults and chaperones who help me.

I also spent alot of time with several different students including Portia, Kailee, and many others. Daily we talked about life, cooking, and the adventures of Kentucky. It is awesome that I actually get to connect with students...most kitchen gals don't get to know their students. I feel that God has placed me here for dual purpose-food & relationships. God is teaching me ALOT about current ministry, future ministry, and relational evangelism. Please pray as I open His word more & more to find wisdom and encouragement for others.

As part of the kitchen job, I deliver hot food to our daycamp in Manchester. This week we made yummy tacos, pizza, pizza bread, and Petros. On Friday all of the daycamps (~40 kids) come to our mission to worship, eat lunch with us, and hang-out. I learned that Petros have many different alias including: fiesta (from TX) and tacos in a bag (from Nebraska). This was alot of fun for the kids and they love knowing where the students and staff live. We prayed really hard for this "field trip" for the daycampers and one said "this is the best day of my life"-a really sweet phrase to hear!

As possibly mentioned previously, Leslie County is one of the poorest counties in the United States. Part of the outreach of the community teams involves grocery shopping for a poor family each week. It is estimated that most families living in poverty spend $40 per week on food. Therefore, our students must make a menu, shop at the IGA (very popular here in KY), and come in @ budget with their week of food. I was able to assist with the first project & really enjoyed it. Each week I love to hear the stories-most students are absolutely amazed. It is really difficult to wrap my mind around the fact that we budget $30 per student for food each week yet that is almost enough to feed one family. Wow.

I definitely have more to share-God is working here. His truth is beyond my comprehension at times. The thing I love most about Big Creek is its authenticity-no emotional pleas with our students, no fake appearances...Truth wins.

Update on Camp Life

Here at Big Creek Missions we desire to equip students with the tools needed to literally change our world with relational missions. This year we have had a wonderful and diverse group of students-including those who are not believers.

As part of the "field training", students are encouraged to share their testimony in preparation for the outreaches in eastern Kentucky. Many times this stirs within the hearts of our non-believers & we are thrilled to say that 7 students have come to Christ and many seeds have been planted. Our God is providing beyond our dreams & He is doing great things!

Please pray for the staff-rest and spiritual renewal. Pray for our groups as they make the most of their last 2 days here in Appalachia!

Barbie on the Que

Again, I am sad to not blog more. Feeding 230 people is literally some of the hardest work I have ever experienced. However, please note that God provides-no complaints. He does. This week we have a wide & diverse group of students from FL, AL, IN, TN, and of course the great state of Nebraska. (My sweet friend Eric- a staffer with an amazing heart is a student @ UNK).

So what has happened??? First, our wonderful week 1 campers left us on Saturday & did an AMAZING job cleaning! As staff, we officially have "off-time" from Saturday (when the school is 225.6% clean) until Sunday at noon. We, the staff, feel like official natives...every Saturday we anticipate our big trip in to "town". This town is known as Hazard, KY. Recall from previous blog that we ate at Applebee's there recently. However, this night I suggested Mexican food & all agreed.

Our evening began with the 30 minute drive-a great time to do more bonding. We arrived at this spot & were greeted with yummy chips and salsa. However, I did not know what the future held. Additionally, in honor of the lack of shopping we do here (retail therapy), we visited the new store next door "Girly Goodies". Scary, I know. Anyway, I picked up some earrings,etc. and went back to dinner. Not too long after I began eating, my friends/staffers decided to try to warn me of danger.



All of the sudden I felt someone removing my sunglasses and putting a large hat on my head. Next a waiter dolloped three spots of whipped cream all over my face & the waiting crew sang "Happy Birthday". Clarification, my birthday is in January. However, my kind staff guy friends (Andy & Blake) like to make my life awkward-they once again succeeded.



Per the usual, after dinner we made it to Wal-Mart & came back for sleep.

Sunday mornings we take time to rest and reflect. Additionally, the Big Creek barber shop opens depending on the need. Pictured below is (@ the far right) Andy S with our fearless leader Kevin. Scary that fellow staffers have such control over other people's hair. I am thankful to say that everyone looks great!



Monday

As my usual Monday report, the bar-be-que chicken process went much, much better. I spent ~3 hours (2pm-5pm) grilling 230 pieces of chicken.

Per the weekly usual I made a trip with Tony, our film guy over to Hyden to pick up supplies. We stopped in to check on our Hyden day camp site. Big Creek has three main emphasis: Construction, day camp, and community. Day camp is literally vacation Bible school all summer long-these staffers and students are awesome!! Pictured below is day one of the Hyden camp at a prayer circle.


Tuesday

Each Tuesday we typically serve "Tex-Mex" style food at the Big Creek Cafe (aka: Hannah's Manna). Yesterday we celebrated two staffer birthdays and enjoyed some yummy tacos. Also, I found this great Latino hits CD at the Dollar Tree & we enjoyed dinner music. Camp life is alot of fun.

God is doing amazing things here at Big Creek. We are reflecting over John this summer & our calling to acknowledge Christ. What I am learning is to die to self (John 3:30) and to yield to Christ. It has occurred to me that I often rely way,way,way too much on my on strength. In John 6:31, God recalls when manna was fed to those in the old Testament looking for the Promise Land. People of that time continually expected more, weren't satisfied, or simply weren't happy. Instead of taking the manna that God literally provided daily from heaven & being thankful, they were not satisfied. In a way, I simply expect more-all what I want-all the time. I go to far & extreme lengths to achieve perfection (or what appears close) and things that I highly desire. I don't take the time to even acknowledge that Christ is in control. When my "manna" in life isn't what I want, I should not mope, expect some sort of quick fix, or even acknowledge that I have any control. All decisions, anxieties, frustrations, etc. should be brought before God.

John 6:35 "And Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst."

Week 1 = Awesome

Hello Friends, Family, and my new wonderful Big Creek people!

Our first week was phenomenal. God did awesome and amazing things from humbling me constantly to working in the lives of over one hundred students.

Above is a great group of BigCreekers from Maryville/Alcoa area-they are amazing! From playing bingo at a Veteran's Home (my favorite day) to teaching children at our day camps, we experienced amazing adventures. Here at BigCreek we say that you are on mission training experience here & your official mission field begins when you return. I am praying for so many special students who came this week-I will miss you!

On Friday, I got to drive to Hazard with one of our community service groups to spend time with 150 veterans of the military. From my previous visits to similar buildings, this one was excellent. (They have a fabulous dietitian!) Our visit consisted of simply visiting veterans throughout the home and playing bingo with them. I had so much fun sitting with two older gentleman who simply needed a pair of eyes to watch their card during bingo. I will admit we won multiple times but most of all we had a chance to hear their stories. It was great-I plan to return!

On Thursday we did a simple meal of loaded mashed potatoes, chicken fingers, green beans, and yummy cream cheese brownies (pictured above).


My two wonderful kitchen helpers J & K were so very helpful this week. They encouraged me, advised me, and were a joy to have. On a construction site, K's son cut his finger severely onThursday. After a trip to the local hospital and advice from a doctor here working, the family decided to return home. Please pray that this young man heals well (he will be having surgery next week!) Thank you Ms. K & J-especially for my kitchen frog & the new handmixer!


To Miss Lauren-I am so thankful that I met you. God has plans to prosper you & not to harm you...to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11) Thank you for serving faithfully in the kitchen and singing at our bonfire! I will miss you & be praying for you!




Finally, I have to admit that I really miss my beautiful, loving nutrition girls. We graduated one month ago today (pictured above) and we are ready to conquer the world. I wish them nothing but the best! We know that our God has provided in so many ways. Thank you sweet gals for always encouraging me and pointing me toward Christ!

Bar-B-Que Wednesday

Sorry the blog hasn't been updated in what feels like forever! The past 72 hours have been amazing yet exhausting. Today I finally took a nap & felt highly rejuvenated! I have learned several memorable tips to share about cooking for the masses.

(1) Never, ever, ever attempt to cook 150 pieces of chicken on the grill in 2 hours...especially if they come from the freezer. Just say no. On Monday evening this incident occurred with me. Thankfully I had two wonderful church women (my kitchen assistants) who saved the day. However, the chicken did get done and tasted amazing.

Recipe: Place chicken (unseasoned) on the grill. On the side away from the grill, place a dab of garlic powder and small basting of Worcestershire sauce.

Upon flipping, generously baste the "up" side with bar-b-que sauce. Ensure cooking temperature and serve.

(2) You can create pretty much any amazing dessert using cake mix. Though Anne Byrn in the "Cake Mix Doctor" does an excellent job...she doesn't plan for ~150 people. I have used her recipes for inspiration and I have successfully produced a delicious strawberry cake, chocolate cake (as seen in earlier post), and last night a wonderful applesauce cake.

Unlike traditional commercial kitchens we have no real kitchen staff (I am considered volunteer) so mass chaos and a variety of ingredients may be found. Therefore, chocolate pudding and fruit cocktail creativity are simply a must. (I am still working of the fruit cocktail one...haha.)

Also, both of our handmixers died two days ago. Sad. However, my wonderful two ladies from Alabama working with me this week donated a new one-many thanks!

(3) Family recipes do come in handy...even at Big Creek. Two nights ago I decided to make a large bowl of banana pudding, a favorite of the Kevin's (our director) and Andy's (my official new little brother at Big Creek).


Please pray for several specific items: Big Creek is up for kitchen inspection soon (by late next week). This visit is unannounced so we have no idea when they will grace us & inspect us.

Pray for the staff-little sleep is had as a staffer & my fellow staff are simply amazing. God is working in many wonderful ways to reveal himself through them.

Our week 1 is officially over Saturday. Many people are hurting, confused, and need Jesus more than ever(some of our groups have experienced major tragedy). God has done amazing things this week & I am so thankful to be a part of them. I am learning that God doesn't call us when we know "all the right answers"...my skills regarding counseling are finally being used & I am so thankful. Ephesians 2:10 "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." This is my prayer- that the love of Christ would abound and my attitude would be only of that.

Day 1-Reality Begins

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Above are wonderful fellow BigCreekers who aided me in making a delicious, fudgy chocolate cake.



Part of the joy of my job is to make delicious dessert for at least 150 people...from general food service supply cake mix (not Betty Crock. We have been enjoying dry (like a desert) white cake with amazing chocolate icing. In fact, it got so bad that I put it with pudding and served it today...it received better ratings combined with pudding. However, our amazing fudgy cake (above) left no camper unsatisfied. We simply added 1 extra cup of water, foodservice pudding, and lots of chocolate chips...yum!!!


For the main meal we prepared an Italian fair of lasagna, chicken alfredo, pizza bread, and lots of bread sticks. Our director, Kevin, is an avid "foodie" and grill man. Additionally, his bachelor tastes are quite refined. However, using my mom's amazing recipe for grilled chicken, we made a delicious and highly popular topping for our alfredo. We simply marinated in our light Italian dressing and added garlic powder. Two of my dear kitchen friends manned the chicken while I scurried about the kitchen. Our finished product looked amazing:


We all received numerous compliments on our culinary skills. However, tomorrow is a new day!

I believe that I have neglected to share that I am the older sis to about 24 younger staff and receive all sorts of attention and love. At every meal (and group introduction) I received a round of applause...and often a standing ovation. This happened at least 10 times today & last night at dinner in Hazard, KY...where the entire Applebees clapped. Yep, they make me feel pretty special. However, the greatest part is the community here. I love spending time with my brothers and sisters in Christ. Our general encouragement is out of this world. I am thankful!

Tomorrow is the BIG DAY!

So today has started out with a bang. However, it has been a wonderful day because the air conditioner is working well!!!! News of late: today my breakfast team and I made yummy homemade pancakes. We even added chocolate chips. From my wonderful staffers I heard delight and excitement-keep in mind that our "oven-made" pancakes resembled small frisbies...in fact people had to cut them with a knife. Gotta laugh at mistakes...

Currently we have a man who brings us tons of kitchen stuff to help with the masses of people who hit Big Creek each summer. Today we got kitchen work mats *squeal!!! Also, we have this fabulous new coffee system (a BIG deal for me) with "airpots"...like you see at continental breakfasts.

Apples to Apples is our new staff bonding game. We love it-especially Chris-a highly competitive individual-who I keep beating!

God is revealing himself through so many things. First, life is really overwhelming at times. He calls us to simply look to Him. In my avid following of Pinkner @ Crossroads I have begun reading Ephesians. God tells us in Ephesians 1:22 that "He put all things under his feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church." God has it-when we get "busy" we must simply stop, take time to pray, and acknowledge that we are only a tiny part of a magnum opus. That is all.

Mosaritas Night

As part of a crazy intense missions camp, our meals must be creative, tasty, and fun. Tonight we did a run-through for our Moe's/Salsaritas/Tex Mex meal. From grilled chicken to ground beef, this meal was pretty yummy. Each time we prep something I always learn something new-when meat should be defrosted, how much spice is required, etc. Additionally, we don't make alot of stuff from scratch. This morning we consumed the most crunchy pancakes one can imagine...this food takes like 2 seconds to heat and serve. However, I am getting super creative with leftovers.

Each night dessert is a big deal. (This does not agree with my nutrition philosophy.) I find that simple leftover bits of cake with pudding go along way. Tonight we had chocolate delight-chocolate pudding, a cream cheese/vanilla pudding mixture, brownie bits, marshmallows, and chocolate syrup. Yum-only one bowl left.

On the team front, I am so fortunate to keep getting to know ~27 other staff. Tonight we played a long game of Apples to Apples. We laughed...Alot! Yesterday we each shared our life story, our faith, and beliefs. It is so cool yet so unique to be in this whole protected community. Coming from a major party school where everything went, it is amazing to find Christian community 24/7.

Dallas plans are going well. Apartment searching is over-lease signing must start! I am headed to get clean and sleep!

Day 2-Let the Games Begin

Successfully 28 people (including myself) have survived 2 days of staff training here at Big Creek Mission. I can honestly say that I have been so blessed to meet such a diverse and wonderful group of staffers here! So far we have bonded through First Aid training, numerous games, worship, and each person rotating through the kitchen with me.

Big Creek literally runs out of a school kitchen. We are housed in a former elementary school and everything has some order...even the spatulas & cutting board! So...what does a person like me do? Each morning I get up early to help the breakfast crew. (I am missing my amazing morning oats really badly)! We prep alot of "southern" breakfast foods. Today I officially told one of the great guys on staff that 1 quart = 8 cups. Therefore, our gravy was "southern soup" with bread. Gotta laugh off the mistakes. I keep trying to organize EVERYTHING-the freezer, the pantry, the pots, etc. This time next week we will be serving ~150 hungry missionaries...a task that only God can provide the brain and time to prepare!

T-minus 12 hours

Tomorrow is the big first day of staff training at Big Creek Mission. Graduating from college seemed like one big accomplishment...but I feel that 2 months in Appalachia could teach me more than I ever imagined. From cooking to 250 people daily to meeting ~30 new co-staff members, my world will be stretched for the better!

In nutrition and foodservice classes, you learn alot of theoretical practice. It is really exciting for me to learn to use this on the mission field. On Tuesday I will learn to order food for an entire week. Unlike the small metropolis that I spent my college years in, even simple grocery stores take 20-30 minutes to get to in our region of Kentucky. Therefore, I will get to become very familiar with our foodservice ordering company & delivery man. Additionally, each week I will meet 4 new lovely volunteers who will assist me in preparing these meals.

As a disclaimer, I am a future registered dietitian.However, this summer I will be consumed with learning to serve Jesus and cook for ALOT of people at one time. "All foods in moderation" will be key to our success this summer. It will prove to be interesting I am sure.