Impacting Japan inside and out

Luke's lunch box

2011-12-19T21:41:00.003+09:00

I have been wanting to write this for awhile so here is a funny story. In October, Luke started kindergarten. Everyday he attends from 10-2pm. I take him on my bike and drop him off, the teacher meets him downstairs and escorts him to his classroom. At 2pm sharp I pick him up and we talk about his day. This is a nice schedule and also really nice because the school provides his lunch everyday. Yeah, but once a month I have to make his lunch. How hard can it be fixing a three year old's lunch. Well, I found out fast, it was not easy. I am used to an American lunch, PB & J, maybe chips, how about some gummies and cookies for dessert. Well, when I pick up Luke after fixing his lunch in October, the sensai (teacher) kindly informed me that his lunch was not acceptable. He could only eat the sandwich, all the other things were snacks and not allowed at lunch time. I laughed and told her this was an American lunch, but she said I needed to meet with other Japanese women and learn how to make a Japanese lunch (bento). So as you can see from the pictures my learning has improved and now once a month I get excited to make Luke's lunch and to see how creative I can get with food.

The second photo shows my graduated knowledge of how to make a Japanese lunch box.
Turkey, with mashed potatoes with a seaweed smile, steamed carrots, apples, and tangerines. Pretty fun, egh?

Since then...

2011-12-14T21:23:00.005+09:00

(#1 Husband & Dad Wataru)

Okay, now Luke and I are back in Japan. We decided to surprise Wataru for his 50th birthday. Luke and I flew back on the 20th of September and his birthday is the 21st. He had no idea! We had a friend pick us up at the bus station and when we walked in the front door Wataru came down the stairs and was shocked! It was a nice surprise.

Since our support has been low, Wataru realized he needed to work for extra income so in October he started working as a translator/hall monitor/serving lunches, etc. at a elementary school.

(Wataru sitting at his desk)

(Instructions for how to clean the toilets at the school, the students clean the toilets!)

He translates for the ALT teachers and does whatever the school asked him to.

So October 3rd he started his job for six months and God blessed us with some extra funds to send Luke to kindergarten on October 10th for six months. Wataru loves his job and Luke loves his class. I will upload some great videos later. We have also been praying and seeking God for our move to America. We have applied for Watarus' visa to come and live in America. We are excited to see what God has for us next.

(Luke with his teachers and some of his classmates)

(Luke and I pulling up sweet potatoes for a field trip)

Seattle in the Summer

2011-11-01T08:00:00.005+09:00

While Luke and I were in America, we were also blessed to be able to go to see my family in Seattle. What an amazing trip. I have not seen my Uncle and Aunt or cousins for over seven years and I was again blessed to see them. My Aunt and Uncle loved on us and gave us a time of refreshing. My uncle Banny took me on a motorcycle ride through the country, my aunt treated us like royalty and my sweet, beautiful cousin took us to the beach to hang out with her sweet little ones. I was so thankful that they allowed me to cook for them an authentic Japanese meal. One side note, my uncle is going to have a "kidney graft", please pray for this procedure that Jesus will be glorify through it all.

What a great time I also had time to spend time with my little cousin Amy.

She was an amazing mom. Since she has three kids, I would think she knows everything in my eyes but she was so teachable. I have come across some moms where I would be describing something Luke did and automatically the other mom starts talking about the same things her children or better. Is this a normal response for mothers? Amy is an excellent mom and she showed me great things. I was so thankful to connect with her again after so many years.

Sweet fellowship in Ohio

2011-10-19T13:10:00.004+09:00

While we were in America, Luke and I were able to travel to Ohio and see a friend and her family whom I met in Japan six years ago. She is such an incredible wife and mom

(Wendy, Cheri and daughter Jessica)

that I was able to learn so much from her. She has 3 children under the age of four and I saw her do things I could only dream of doing with one. She loves Jesus and wants truth to flow through her home.

She is not afraid to talk about her struggles and included me. Her heart was laid bare and we were able to pray together and have laughs together. Luke also enjoyed being with her two boys and running in the country. It was such a teachable time because they raised chickens and Luke was able to collect eggs. My friend Wendy and our other friend Cheri blessed us by taking us to the Columbus Zoo. What a great time. Luke loved the animals and learned more and more each day. It was only a six hour drive from Springfield with beautiful days and evenings.

Becky, Jenny (precious friends I met in Japan and now live in Ohio.) Jenny dropped everything she was doing when she found out I was in Ohio for a visit. At the last minute she called Becky and her and her husband came for a wonderful lunch. Thank you so much!

Sunshine Hotel

2011-10-18T20:19:00.004+09:00

Our family went to America in July for 2 months. Wataru stayed for only 1 week (sad) and Luke and I stayed for 2 months. It was such an amazing trip. We stayed at my mom's house and it was such sweet time with my mom. In the past we have been at odds with each other, maybe because we are more alike than I wish to admit, but this time

was different. She has grown so much in wanting to be like Jesus. Her whole countenance was different and it was a joy to be able to spend quality time with her. She had the cutest little room for us, she would make our beds sometimes and sometimes right before bed she would lay our pajamas on our pillows.

I felt like I was staying at a 5 star hotel. I loved being able to get up in the morning, have a cup of coffee and talk about what God was doing in our lives. We listened to Vernon McGee and John MacArthur together. Another memory was Luke would go upstairs when my mom was getting ready for work and dance to the songs on the radio and put all my mom's jewelry on. It was so funny. Thank you Mom for letting us crash in your house and allowing us to drink all your milk and eat all your food. Love you so much!

Ramen in a cup--NO Way

2011-07-05T21:59:00.007+09:00

I like living in Sano because our city is famous for "Ramen" noodles. Now this is not your typical "ramen noodles". Each shop is so special in their soups and the noodles can be homemade or not.

Our friends Jeff and Eunice told us about this ramen shop that had a soup loaded with garlic. Well needless to say we went there and LOVED it. The weather is hot here, like everywhere else so we first found water, a local river, and then went to share a bowl of ramen. YUMMY!

Luke turned 3!

2011-06-11T14:54:00.004+09:00

On March 27th my baby turned 3. It was low key but really special. God blessed us with sweet gifts from the States and Japan. He had a birthday that kept on going. It started on his actual day then we moved to grandma's and had little cupcakes there and then went to our house church where they celebrated Luke's and our friend Satoshi's birthday together. Luke says thank you for all the wonderful things you sent him.

Luke is thankful for so much. He has clothes, food in his belly and shelter, his is really rich!

Relief Work with CRASH

2011-05-27T10:12:00.005+09:00

Wataru, Justin, Jeff (second, third, middle from left, plus others)

(Luke saying bye to daddy)

Wataru recently went up north with a group of guys with CRASH. They left Sano with a van full of supplies and hearts ready to help wherever God took them. Wataru said the work was overwhelming. So much to do and not enough time. They were able to clean out mud from houses, help with some repairs to a church and clean up an apple orchard. The greatest need he found was listening to people. People want to share what has happened and the team was able to provide them an "ear". Thank you again for all the support financially, and through prayer! Japan still needs volunteers to many areas. If God lays it on your heart to come help, COME!

A great friend of ours, Jeff, who went to Sendai, put together these amazing videos.

http://gallery.me.com/jor25#100432

gallery.me.com/jor25

(The return home)

It's been a long time

2011-05-24T20:27:00.005+09:00

I am so sorry for the long silence. I have been overwhelmed with so much kindness and encouragement from so many people. First off, we want to say thank you for all the words you have sent to us! They have been amazing! Second, thank you for being patient with us. We have learned so much from this tragedy, I can't imagine what the people who went through real devastation is going through. I wanted to post picturesfrom the earthquake but they don't compare to what you have seen in the news or what Wataru has seen in person. So I decided not to upload them. The day that the earthquake happened was a day that has changed my life and the lives of so many others. I know from my own experience that fear came in. There was no gas or daily essentials, toilet paper, milk, and even water. I was stressed because I thought I needed to have things in order for my family, but I was not prepared. I felt lost and inadequate. I felt like a failure and I had let my family down. I also saw many foreigners leaving Japan. I did not understand why but I have had to deal with reasons in my own heart. The nuclear plant was also on my mind but that was one situation I did not fear. Wataru and Luke were a trooper through the whole thing, because I did not show outward fear through the earthquake, Luke did not get scared at all. Wataru came home from teaching and ran through the door to ask if I was okay, I said "sure, it was a good one this time". We go through earthquake all the time. I was very thankful for the patience of God. He continue to reassure me through His Word that we would be taken care of and have our needs met. Wataru also reassured me daily not to fear or worry. I finally let go of the fear and know that Jesus continues to walk with me everyday.

I don't want to go on about the day but wanted to fill you in with what God is calling us to do through this. We have offered our home to evacuees, Wataru has gone upto Iwate (a town north of Sendai also hit by the tsunami). We have helped with other organizations with repairs and encouragement. Wataru is trying to provide translation for english speakers when they come to volunteer. We are currently seeking to go up north as a family to try and provide relief for christian church staff workers. They are exhausted from hosting volunteers and we want to be right where God wants us to be. The clean-up efforts will not be over for a LONG time. The recovery will take many years, not months. We are grateful for the financial help you and other Americans have provided for relief efforts. It is amazing! We ask that you continue to pray for the hearts of the Japanese. They are in need of a Savior. THANK YOU!

We're okay!

2011-03-11T16:53:00.002+09:00

We survived the earthquake! It was the biggest quake we have ever been in. Everything is still shaking. I will upload pics later. Thank you Jesus for protecting us and those around us. Please pray for the hearts of the Japanese to turn to Jesus during this time. On the Japanese scale we had an upper 5 effect. Luke and I were laying down and things starting falling off the shelves, dishes breaking, plants and books falling all around us. We were not even getting the worst of it. Thank you for praying!

January flew by!

2011-02-06T15:38:00.012+09:00

Here is a little update since December. We had a peaceful December, with many blessings from God. Our great friends, Romulo's, took our family pictures, here are only a couple. They are such an amazing godly couple. It is joyful sadness that they will be leaving Japan this summer and attending "The Masters Seminary" in California. Jeff wants to study the Bible so he and Eunice can come back to Japan and minister "truth" to the Japanese. (Jeff is from Hong Kong and Eunice is Phillipino but grew up in Japan) Please pray for them!

We were able to spend another New Year's with my mother in law. I love New Year's in Japan. We spend the night on the 31st and eat a traditional Japanese meal, then wake up and eat more authentic Japanese food. I even get to make "date maki" (rolled sweet egg) for breakfast. It is such sweet time for me because I love spending time with my family.

My wonderful brother in laws, Takashi and Akira with girlfriend, Ayumi

January flew by. Wataru is still teaching at the English school, but after many days and prayers he decided to leave the school at the end of March. We will be without income but trusting that Jesus will provide for our every need. Wataru wants to focus more on ministry but since he works until 10pm five days a week, it is difficult for him to meet with anyone. We are praying for a full time position, working during the day. Please be in prayer with us about this. We are also writing an e-newsletter asking for more prayer and financial support.

Luke continues to surprise those he comes in contact with. He says hello to everyone and really cares about the needs of others around him. This type of personality is so contradicting in a world that is so "me" centered. We know the enemy hates this because Luke and I have been really attacked. Just this week, Luke and I were riding on my bike and we had the green pedestrian light and a car ran the red light in front of us. It really made me wonder what was going on in the spiritual realm and thanked Jesus repeatedly for sparing Luke's and my life.

Thank you for all your prayers!

Awesome Fall days

2010-12-10T22:45:00.003+09:00

If you look to the left of my head you can see Mt. Fuji.

It has been so amazingly beautiful here. Luke and I took a drive up to the mountains one evening and God blessed us with an awesome view of Mt. Fuji. That mountain is about 3 hours south of us. Fall is my favorite time of the year and I can hike for hours in the wonderful colors of fall. This is a picture of a dad and son. Luke and I were by ourselves and we met these two going up the mountain. Sugiya san is their name. Please pray for them because we know that it was not an accident that Luke and I ran into them. They hiked up with us and they even showed us some pretty cool spots along the trail. The dad actually used to work where we were hiking. I gave them Bible tracks along with some coffee and prayed that I would be able to meet them again and share more of Jesus with them.

My dad's second trip to Japan this year!

2010-11-30T04:47:00.003+09:00

This year we were blessed to have my dad come for a second visit. He came in January and this month. We were so excited and Luke was really happy to spend time with his Grandpa. We did a lot of fun things, visit a zoo, children's park, went to Tokyo and other new places. It was a blessing too, because of my father's friendliness, that Wataru and I were able to pass out a lot of Bible tracks. It was amazing! Every time he comes he brings such a sweet spirit to Japan. He even was able to share his faith with a man who sometimes needs a bed at our house. I was sad again to say "see you soon", but knowing that Jesus has my dad in the palm of His hand gives me comfort.

Beautiful days

2010-11-26T22:45:00.003+09:00

We are really blessed with fun parks for kids. The weather here is beautiful so I took Luke to a new park. We had so much fun and I was able to get a few pictures in of my sweet son. He is amazing! He is so friendly and outgoing. We are so excited to see the path that the Lord has for him. It is going to be one exciting ride.

More fun couchsurfers

2010-11-14T22:36:00.005+09:00

In October we were blessed to host more couchsurfers! They represented Portugal and Germany. We also had a lovely lady from Canada.

Wataru is always excited for me to have ladies stay because the ladies and I connect in a special way. The ladies were a lot like me in that they were strong willed and very independent. It was fun sharing Jesus with them and how God has taught me to use my strength for Him and not myself. If you get a chance and want to share your relationship with others, couchsurfing is a great way to show people Jesus love.

Older updates

2010-11-14T22:31:00.005+09:00

Well it has been a long time so here are some updates. Wataru turned 49 on 9/21. We had a low key celebration. He is such an easy person to please, he only asked for a curry meal. It was nice just knowing I had another year with my incredible husband. I give glory to God for my husband.

Dr. Fish and Jesus

2010-09-03T14:08:00.004+09:00

This summer Wataru and Luke were able to attend high school festivals on Saturday. Since Wataru is a teacher, he is able to connect with more students at these festivals and Luke gets to meet more wonderful high school students. Since I don't go I get to enjoy photos that Wataru takes and laugh at the fun videos. At one high school they were allowing people to experience "Dr. Fish". If you have not heard about them, they eat the callouses off people's feet. I have wanted to do this for awhile so I just smiled when I saw Luke getting to do it first! Wataru and Luke also take opportunity to share Jesus with the students. Wataru and I marvel at the atmosphere that Luke brings when he shares tracks with people. He is already in training how to love those around him and share the most important message, JESUS!

Happy Summer and Happy Labor Day

2010-08-31T21:58:00.003+09:00

(My friend Becky and her husband)

Is this the end of summer already? Wow, it went by so fast. In Japan, August is "summer holiday" for all schools. For me I thought it was going to be a slow month, going to the pool with Luke and taking care of my home. WRONG. I prayed at the beginning of this month that Jesus would bring people to our home, He answered again more than I could of ever imagined!

The first weekend we had 3 people stay the weekend from Tokyo. Then the next week we were blessed by another missionary couple and their wonderful 4 kids by them staying one night! The next day we picked up an 8 year old Japanese boy for a 10 day "pseudo-homestay".

(Luke and Shoma eating donuts)

Two days later a beautiful Austrian woman stay with us for a couple of nights. Then to finish with a bang, a couple from the Czech-Republic stayed the last weekend with us.

(Karolina and Matj from Czech)

I loved it so much! The women who stayed here I was able to sit and talk with and listen. I really love ministering to other women! So it has been a wonderful busy month with friends and guest and you WON'T hear me complain. I am only sad because my close friend, Becky, moved back to the States. Through all the guest, Luke has been amazing! His big personality it coming out and everywhere we go people gravitate towards him. Enjoy the pics

Encounter with the Holy Spirit

2010-07-31T21:42:00.006+09:00

Every Saturday we get donuts with Luke. Today was interesting because none of us were hungry for donuts but it was lunch time and Wataru is so accommodating and it is a family tradition. So we biked in 95 degrees weather, sat and ate donuts. Every Saturday, Wataru also goes throughout the food court and passes out Bible tracks to every table. There are at least 100 tables. Wataru realized that while people are sitting down eating verses walking through the mall, that people read the tracks while they eat. So he had an idea to go upstairs to the other food court and pass out more tracks. He said he was inspired. We went upstairs and Wataru started from one end to the other and passed out tracks. The manager of one of the restaurants (Indian food) approached me about the tracks. I gave him one and he said “Jesus” I said yes and I asked him who he believed in. He said he was Muslim and I asked him by choice or by birth, we laughed about it and continued to talk about the track when I turned and saw Wataru approach Luke and I and there was a man who was walking very close behind Wataru. I thought to myself, “he was pursuing Wataru for a track” oh how wrong I was.

Wataru was passing out tracks on the second floor and unbeknownst to him, he passed out a track to a man having Indian food for lunch. After covering half of the food court, this man who was eating the Indian food approached Wataru and said “I am mall security and it is illegal to pass out this material here, is anyone else doing this? Please come with me!” So this man forcible pushed Wataru in front of him and that is when I saw Wataru and security approach us. Wataru told the man he needed to tell his wife and family where he was going. The security man thought Wataru and I was together and thought we knew the Indian restaurant manager with whom I was talking to. As soon as security saw that I was his wife and I was talking with the “Indian” restaurant manager his countenance changed. He stopped pushing Wataru and went to talk with the owner of the Indian restaurant. Wataru looked at me and said “we can’t pass out these tracks, we must go.” I shook the managers’ hand and told him we would be back for lunch. (I can’t wait to eat Indian food). We walked out of the food court. It was amazing situation and would have loved to have seen it in the spiritual realm how Jesus put all the pieces into place. Wataru gave the security a track before we left. I am so proud of my husband and know that the enemy is ticked. Please pray for the manager and the security to know and love Jesus.

Heidi

Sweet times with my sister and Lauren

2010-07-19T20:39:00.006+09:00

The ladies during a green tea ceremony, we were even able to make the green tea, fun!

Renee and Lauren met my sweet friends, top: Eunice, Lauren, Sachiko

bottom: Renee and Natsumi

Luke (giving us his new forced smile ) and Lauren

My sister and Lauren came for a visit early June. It was such a wonderful visit. Lauren and I would stay up praying for various things and just having a joyful time. God really blessed us with several fun things going on in Sano. Renee and Lauren were even allowed to share their testimony about the adoption. I enjoyed being with my sister and Lauren so much. Do you every spend time with someone and after they are gone you feel a hole in your heart? That was our family. Wataru and I had a "date night" the evening of the same day they left and our conversation was all about our wonderful time with them. We are really blessed! Luke is still asking for "Laurenita" and Aunt Na.

Us on top of a local mountain

Mom in Japan, May 2010

2010-07-05T13:12:00.004+09:00

My Beautiful Mom

We were blessed this year by having my mom come to Japan! I love, like my mom loves, our love language is physical touch and Luke did not who was kissing on him at all times, either his grandmother or his mom. It was quite fun. She too blessed Wataru and I with a couple of date nights while she watched Luke. She also helped Wataru's mom with planting rice this season. We had some really heart to heart talks and it is fun that I can still learn new things about my mom. That is the fun part about family, we think we know everything about them but really only Jesus knows their hearts and we can only get a glimpse. My mom encouraged me in my motherhood and told me I was doing a good job, which coming from her is such a compliment. She was able to raise 4 kids while she stayed at home and I thought raising 1 was hard. She was an encouragement and I love her so much.

M. Stewart could learn a thing or two from my mom!

It's been a long time, April

2010-07-04T09:35:00.004+09:00

Thank you for being patient. Since March 30th, we have had several people stay with us and our home became a pseudo bed and breakfast. We have had so much fun. I will post from April until now. In April we had our first "home stay" guest. Natsumi wanted to study English and get ready for her trip to Canada this July. She was so fun! Luke loved her and everyday Luke asked for Natsumi. She was a blessing. It is difficult to find "babysitters" in Japan because moms' don't ask for help that much. So during that month, Natsumi (she is a nurse) watched Luke for us and I could trust her. ! That is another big issue for me, TRUST. I will not just leave Luke with anyone for the sake of my mental health, even though I have been tempted but I have considered that his safety and well-being is more important than my time to myself. We even asked her to stay one more month but she told us she needed to get ready for Canada. I cried

Lukes's 2nd Birthday

2010-03-29T14:50:00.003+09:00

Luke's first cake, of course it had to be a donut!Second cake, strawberry cake for dessert for his actual birthday.Luke's new bike from Shoma. Shoma and his mom are part of our house church. Our first party guest. L-R (Takashi, Grandma, Family from Argentina)

What a blast! His birthday was actually celebrated on the 28th. We decided to have a big outreach party for all of the friends that Luke knows and loves. We had a lunch party with 30 people. It was awesome. Eight different countries represented and Jesus preached. We gave a small message about the true meaning of Easter. I served turkey and provided the cake and since it was a "potluck" we had enough food. The kids played and the adults were able to relax thanks to Luke's grandma and Sayuri. Since it was a potluck we said no presents but Shoma was creative and gave Luke his old bike. We were so thankful! Some did not heed the "no present" rule and he received some precious gifts! Luke also received fabu gifts from family and friends from the states! Luke was truly blessed! Thank you for praying for the presence of God being here!

One part of the video Luke is singing! When his grandpa was here, he taught Luke the birthday song, so Luke actually sang along! It was so precious. I have more pics and will try to upload in another post.

Happy Birthday Takashi and Akira

2010-03-11T20:38:00.003+09:00

Takashi
Akira with Luke

Last week 3/2and this week 3/9, my brother-in-laws, Takashi and Akira celebrated their birthdays. Birthday's are an interesting thing in Japan. Most Japanese do not celebrate birthday's. They come and go without even hearing a birthday song. Wataru and I love to call them and sing to them. I am blessed to have 2 great "brother's. When they see Luke they take really good care of him, I just wish I could spend more time with them. Takashi works a typical Japanese week, 6 days a week. Akira lives in Tokyo and I can count on both hands the times we have been able to see him. I love them so much and wish I could convey that to them but my limited language ability keeps me from communicating that to them. It is so humbling!

Wonderful 43rd Birthday

2010-02-25T13:11:00.005+09:00

Turning 43 is really no big deal. Wataru surprised me on the 24th with a trip to the mountains for lunch and an onsen with a facial. It was so sweet. Grandma was gracious enough to watch Luke for the day. I did a fun little video to highlight some of the things I am praying for for this new year. Thank you so much for praying for me and our family. It has been one big adventure after another.

Beautiful weather and the "Love" day

2010-02-15T20:41:00.004+09:00

We have been so blessed with beautiful weather. Wataru tries to find new parks for us to go to. This one was beautiful and one of the trees was starting to bloom. Japan has such wonderful parks for kids to go to and adults alike. For Valentine's day we have a fabulous time of worship and teaching then Wataru had planned to go and get dinner but we were not hungry so we went and had a cup of coffee and met two nice couples. The first couple has been married for 40 years and for the first time after we asked the question "what is your secret for marriage" the wife replied "love". I had to pinch myself to remind me I was in Japan. What a wonderful answer. Then the second couple was like Wataru and I. The wife was from Canada and he was a local. We pray that God will develop those relationships.

Dad in Japan January 2010

2010-01-29T22:44:00.009+09:00

I LOVE YOU DAD!

What an awesome trip! I had no idea how much my dad would connect with Luke. He was amazing! Luke was able to love on his grandpa and receive his love back. We had an awesome time with him. Chris Homeier III, amazing man! I told him that I learned so much about him this trip. Most of all that he is teachable. I have met older people that get set in their ways and become "grumpy". Not my dad, he is and has always been so positive and I have never heard my father curse or ever say a mean thing about anyone. WOW, what a role model. I choose to pick the great things about my father and dwell on those things. His unconditional love towards me has been a great example to me and something that I can pass on to my son. Thank you dad so much for showing me who Jesus is! I love you so much and praise God for you!

I have tried to upload a slideshow but to no success. Enjoy the photos!

Informational/Transformational

2010-01-15T13:29:00.004+09:00

This week I had to confess my sins to my husband. One evening I was on the computer for 2 whole hours. I could not believe it. Where did the time go? I was so convicted because my time with God is set aside at that time. I was just looking from one news site to another and then I looked at the clock at was horrified to see that 2 hours was gone. I repented before God and before Wataru. He told me this great friend of his told him, "news is only informational where the Bible is transformational". I thought what an awesome piece of wisdom. His friend is right! When I get into the Word it transforms my heart from what I thinking or the time continues to mold me into who Jesus wants me to be! I saw when I went to America last summer how news can be such an idol to the American people. The news comes on in the morning, then it is on the radio, on the drive home and when one comes into the house. If that is not enough, when one is fixing dinner the news is on. That to me is an idol! Can you imagine if we spent half the time in the Word, listening to it when we get up, how about the Bible on CD when we drive to work and when the tough day is done, putting on a Psalm CD. We would be transformed into the likeness of Jesus. We need to spend just as much or more time reading the Bible than listening to the news (so negative and depressing). I was convicted and praise God for that conviction, I don't want to think about the day that I become so callous to that conviction of the Holy Spirit that I could eventually loose my salvation.

Hospitality, is it really a gift?

2010-01-06T21:38:00.003+09:00

Let me ask you one question. Is hospitality really a gift from God? I wanted to find out what the Bible says about hospitality and it was never listed with the "gifts" passage. I see it as common sense to invite people in a home provided to us by God ( you should see our home) and treat them not as strangers but as friends. Wataru has told me over and over again, my common sense is not really common sense. But I have to wonder, what would Jesus do if He was me and He invited me into his house? How would HE treat me? How would HE treat others? I love being able to serve strangers that come into my house and making my home feel like it is theirs. I have heard in the past that "I don't have the gift of hospitality". (and they continued in not learning the art of hospitality) But I could not find it in the Word! One definition says: "Kindness in welcoming guest or strangers", and this definition does not come from a "christian" source. There are so many cool scripture that talks about what real hospitality is. Roman 12:12-14, I Timothy 5:9, 10, I Peter 4:8-9, 3 John 1:7-8. I love the Japanese when it come to hospitality. As soon as you come into a home, they automatically stop what they are doing and serve you something to eat and drink and listen to the person. These people are not even "Christians." Why is it that sometimes the world acts more christian than the Christians who say they are? So if you are baking cookies or have some "oreos' laying around, the next time someone comes into your home, offer them a cookie and something to drink and stop what you are doing. That person is more important than anything else you are doing. You don't know who you might be blessing by that small gesture of kindness and you never know, the door could be open to share Jesus.: )

(Below are just a few examples of hospitality, I don't have enough room for all the pictures)

Year end review

2010-01-05T23:38:00.004+09:00

So 2009 is gone, wow, where did it go. It flew by so fast! I wanted to share some highlights of 2009. Wataru is still working at Noah as a teacher and "chaplain." His mother was saved and so many other precious souls. Luke burned his hand, bit his tongue and then decided to down a bottle of medicine. My son is giving me more and more grey hairs! For me 2009 was a life changing year. In September I arrived back in Japan with a really bad attitude and bent on making sure my life was going to be miserable. But Jesus had other plans. While I was in America a precious friend gave me the 90 day Bible. It was the best gift ever! A local Springfield church was doing a fast and I decided to do it with them. So starting in September, I read through the Bible in 90 days and did a "Daniel" fast for 1 month. It was miraculous! God sent 7 plus angelic women in my life to steer me in the right direction and counsel me. It was awesome. My advice now to other women who are going through huge difficulty is to read through the Bible in 90 days and fast! It revolutionized my thinking and Jesus was not going to allow me to stay in the state of mind I was. I was so blessed by so much that 2009 was a painfully joyous year. I praise God HE loves me enough to not let me be the same person I was last year and that I continue to grow into the woman He wants me to be!!

Ohio road trip

2009-08-03T11:16:00.004+09:00

Luke and Kaden, 2 boys made in Japan

Wendy made homemade strawberry Popsicle's and of course the boys had to eat them outside. It was so much fun watching them eat them, Luke dripped on his belly and tried to wipe it off with the Popsicle's, great times.

This week Luke and I went to Ohio to visit some great friends that we had met in Japan. It was a 6 hour road trip and Luke's first long trip in the car. He did not do very well but it was well worth the drive when we got out of the car and Kaden (who is almost 2 yrs old) said "Luke". They were great friends after that. Kaden's mom, Wendy, and I met in Japan. We were both without children and having a lot of fun. Then God blessed them with Kaden, who was born in Japan and I was able to meet Kaden for the first time. Shortly after he was born they had to come back to America with her husbands' job. I was really sad because I loved Wendy like my sister. But when she left it was only a "see you later". So 2 years later we were able to connect and it was such a blessing to be in such sweet fellowship with her. She is an incredible wife and mom and I learned so much from her.

Tovin and Luke
Marysville finest firefighters with Luke and Kaden

More Ohio friends

During our stay in Ohio, I was able to reconnect with another precious friend I met in Japan, Jenny. She invited us over for a fabulous dinner with her and her family and another friend from Japan, Becky. It was awesome to see how Jesus had brought us all together in Japan and now we were sitting at her home in America, enjoying each other. God is Good!

(Cheri holding Tovin, Abby, Wendy holding Kaden

Jessica holding Luke)

I was also overjoyed to be able to see the Wiseman's. They were the first Christian family we met in Japan over 4 years ago. They too have moved back to America and they made a visit to Wendy's home with love and coffee. It is so fun to be able to connect so easily with other heavenly family members and know that we will all see Jesus together.

Biking time

2009-07-21T10:58:00.003+09:00

Recently, I have moved in with my brother and sister in law with their 5 kids. Yes 5 kids (Isaiah, Mckenna, Bella, Ian, Elias) and now Luke gets to know his cousins. Dirk and I are really close and we can talk pretty straight with each other. Wataru always comments about Dirk and I way of communication. Times when Dirk and I are brutally honest with each other, but I love that about my brother. Our family has always been bike riders since I think Dirk was about 5 years old when we all took our bikes and rode from Springfield, IL to Six Flags in St. Louis, MO. So it was not uncommon to see that they, Dirk's new family, with a tandem with 2 bike seats and a pull along. Now they are trying to figure out a way to attach one more seat for Elias.

On Sunday, the weather here was amazing, my dad, Dirk and I took all the kids but Elias for a small bike ride but my bike got messed up and God sent an angel to help us and it was such a great lesson for the kids to see how God even takes care of the small things in our lives. I loved this time with my family. We were only missing three people, Wataru, Sarah and the youngest one!

Dancing Luke

2009-07-18T03:40:00.004+09:00

This is so precious, Luke loves to listen to Renee's favorite song and Renee and Luke decided to dance together. This is so fun.

Wonderful day of pics

2009-07-17T12:32:00.003+09:00

Wataru has been begging for pictures of his precious son, so I finally was able to upload some of them. The first picture is Luke and Mooshoe, Mooshoe is my brother's dog and he and his friend came over to eat some "wings' and they brought over their puppy. Luke, as you can see, loves animals and very good with them.

Luke and Auntie Na reading one of Luke's favorite books. Renee and Dennis have a new bird, sonny boy, the bird does not know he's a bird.

Luke helping mom water the plants.

This is Libby, she is Luke's adopted mom. Wherever Luke is there is Libby. She is the best dog ever. We filled up a pool and for the first time she got into it with Luke. Just to keep him safe. We really need a dog. :)

Clingy Luke/Clingy mom

2009-07-14T12:34:00.003+09:00

When we arrived I was excited because I thought Luke would sleep through the night. OH how I was so wrong. He has been really clingy recently so I just thought he needed me more in Japan but when I would try to get him to sleep for the last 3 nights, he has clung onto me like never before. So for the past 3 nights, he has woken up and I have spent nights sleeping with him and letting him fall asleep in my lap.

But, Sunday I was able to attend church. I was so excited! To actually hear a sermon and take communion was great! I miss communion with other believers. I cherished that time. In the sermon I heard an illustration about a child attaching themselves to the parents and how we are to be towards Jesus. I laughed because Jesus was teaching me that when Luke is so clingy, I should be that way to Jesus, hang onto HIM with all my might and don't let go! I learn so much through my son. How fun......

I'm in America

2009-07-14T12:25:00.002+09:00

Yes, you read it right, I'm in America. Luke and I flew out on Friday. Kuma drove us to the airport and of course I got lost in Tokyo, that was not a good way to start off. We arrived at the airport and Luke and I were flying standby because of our tickets. We usually have to wait until the entire plan is boarded and they would call us last and assign us seats but this time was different. When we checked in at the beginning, they assigned us seats and they were wonderful seats! Then God blessed us with great people around us because I was not sure how Luke would fare the flight. (The last time he flew, he was up the entire flight, 11 hours)ugh. So I was all ready to stay up and I had scooped out some people I knew might help. But praise God, Luke slept most of the way. We flew into Springfield and there was my mom and sister. I could of kissed the ground, I was so tired! So stay tuned as I journal my time here and share with you all the great things God is showing me.

PS. I need to find a new cable for my camera to upload photo's I forgot mine in Japan.

Oatmeal time

2009-07-03T00:15:00.003+09:00

When the team (SMI) comes to Japan they get together most mornings to pray and have breakfast at their house while I have my own quiet time at the Minezaki house . This morning, Wataru and the team were praying, Luke goes with daddy and has some "man" time. Luke found the oatmeal and decided to help himself. "A mans gotta be a man" famous Kuma words. Those in the video, Wataru, Earl (aka Kuma) and Dave.

Dirt box/sand box

2009-06-17T19:25:00.003+09:00

Our little Luke found a pot of dirt which we use for a makeshift gate (which of course does not work). He had made it into a sandbox but only it is filled with dirt. He was such a boy getting so dirty but having so much fun!

5th Wedding Anniversary

2009-06-17T19:06:00.003+09:00

On June 12th, we celebrated our 5th anniversary. Wow, can you believe 5 years and all in Japan. Wataru had to work in the evening so we were able to have lunch together. He surprised me with 5 yellow roses (tradition learned from the "Wiseman's"). We talked about what our wedding day was like and then he took me to get this deep massage. It was a wonderful time. I wanted to share a little of what I wrote in his card. The 5 things I have learned about marriage in these 5 years.

1. I am a selfish person

2. I have tried to love with feelings, it doesn't work

3. I am so stubborn

4. Marriage is not fun

5. Submitting to Wataru is like submitting to God, I'm not very good at it.

We were able to laugh and cry at some and talk through the others. I am joyful to be married to Wataru because he makes me become more like Jesus!

International fun day

2009-05-11T19:19:00.003+09:00

Luke has a good friend, Hamza. His parents are from Jordan and there was another girl visiting the party from the Philippines. One thing I love about Japan is the international feeling. There are so many different countries represented here. I recently went to Tokyo for church. When they ask for "first time visitors" you would not believe all the countries, Belize, Peru, Sweden, Luthiana, etc, it was a small glimpse of heaven.

Luke looks really tired but still having fun!