To know a trip is close! Here’s a partial list of what’s been happening the last two weeks:
- Jesse’s lawn mower broke
- Freezer’s on the blink
- The new Redeeming the Time audiobook project is nearing completion but…
- Went from putting everything into production for 5 CDs then to 6 CDs, as we discovered the data wouldn’t fit on 5 CDs as hard as we tried.
- Wrong cases came in.
- It was even despaired that the right cases could be found, but thankfully, they were able to!
- Labels were delayed.
- The insert that goes into the audiobook met many, many challenges as it was prepared for press, and then trying to find a printer who could do it under a tight deadline was hard!
- I (Sarah) was telling Dad recently that I had been thinking about when was the last time we had such a challenging time finishing up a project? Then, I remembered! Redeeming the Time book last summer! So, the audiobook was no exception. This is a message that Satan does not want out there!
- Dishwasher broke and couldn’t get a repair man out for two weeks
- New fan clutch for the bus found defective from the factory. Only found this out, of course, after the install.
- Four out of the five blinds for the front of the bus came in the wrong colors.
- Planning on switching our large package shipping carrier but it was an absolute disaster (we’ll spare you the story–needless to say, we stayed with our original company)
- Sarah and Mary worked hard to make curtains for the bus, but after heroic completion, they were put up but obviously needed another round of fix-it (hand-tacking some seams, thankfully, the other side was machine tacked now that we know!). Sarah almost cried, but ended up laughing instead.
- A key tool that we had trouble locating in Kansas City broke after getting 3 out of the 4 bolts out.
- Mary’s sewing machine decided to get grease on the sleeve of Abby’s flower girl dress.
- After the tag axle was put back together, and finally, we were at the point of firing up the bus, it was discovered the tag axle steering wasn’t working. John spent many a full day  troubleshooting and discovered the problem. You’re incredible, John! 🙂
Despite all the challenges, we’re continuing to rest in the Lord. Our contentment and joy doesn’t come from feelings but rather our dependence on the One Who is in control! We would appreciate prayer as we continue to prepare for our upcoming trip to Boise. Between now and early November, we’ll be home no more than 2 weeks at a time!
And yes, for those who are diligently wondering and praying, Melanie is still hanging in there. She’s now 37 weeks and counting!
Our Lord is good all the time!
The Maxwells
“Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord” (Psalms 31:24).
Dear Maxwells,
Oh! You certainly have had some very trying days! It does seem that for my family, when we’re usually preparing or greatly anticipating a gathering or event that things appear to be going wrong or at least stressful, as if someone didn’t want us to go. But usually if we pray and attend the gathering, we really enjoy it most of the time and are glad that we came!
Will start praying more for you all. Hope things start going smoother for you.
God bless! Love, Rebecca K.
”Be anxious for nothing, but in everything,by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6,7
We don’t wrestle against flesh and blood, and times like you have described remind us of this afresh. BUT…..no weapon formed against you shall prosper, and… the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds! PTL!
On a different note of encouragement, (especially for Teri), today I realized that of all the many wonderful womens’ authors, many have inspired me and drawn my closer to God, but none have put a “can-do” in the application of Scripture to the day-to-day happenings of a homeschool mom like Teri has, for me. She, through her Corners and books has given such practical help of how to apply the scriptures- while others have left me inspired yet baffled. I was so blessed to meet Teri who has become a mentor for me. So, thank you Teri for letting the Lord continue to use you the way He has.
Blessings to you all. After such opposition, there must be something GREAT the Lord has for you on the next trip. 🙂
Onward Christian soldiers! Jesus has won the victory!
Thank you for sharing. I needed the encouragement, and I pray, too, that you are encouraged by the many people you bless. We love you, Maxwells!
Sarah
Keeping you in our prayers as you prepare for your trip. Praying for all those attending that they hear and receive your message.
We have been praying for Nathan, Melaine and Baby Max. Thank you so much for the update on everything.
Blessings, Mrs. Mari
So sorry you’re finding yourselves so challenged. I know that God never gives us more than we can handle, but I do sometimes wonder if He doesn’t overestimate my abilities! 😉
Regarding the grease from Mary’s machine… I sewed my wedding gown (over 25 years ago now, with the same machine I’m still using), and, of course, trying to do the right thing, took the machine to be cleaned and serviced before I started. Imagine my horror when I too found grease on the fabric, and of course it was the very longest piece of fabric (back of dress with 6 foot train). I began using tear-away pieces of special paper both on top and below the two fabric pieces. This was particularly helpful on the lace parts. I did still have a couple of drops of oil, but they stayed on the paper and only were an issue on the thread as it pierced the fabric for a stitch or two, and was hidden in the seam allowance.
Maxwells,
Thank you for a blog post that is encouraging as we are reminded that, while in our flesh some things seem too trying to bear, we do not overcome through ourselves, but through Jesus’ grace and strength. It is truly uplifting and even exhortational, as well, to read this, because it reminds me that our obedience to the Lord is not based on perfect andideal circumstances, but on reliance and trust in God and His unfailing mercy and care!
God bless you all, and I will be praying for your upcoming trip.
Delighted to hear updates about Melanie! I’m praying for Nathan and Melanie as they prepare to welcome a new blessing from the Lord. What a joyous time for y’all! 🙂
Blessings,
Luci