"LET US REJOICE"

This year went so fast.  2013 is about to end.  Did the year go the way you expected?  Did you have some disappointments?  Maybe some unexpected delights?  God doesn't promise that all will be roses, but he does promise to take care of us, one day at a time.  If we can have a heart of gratefulness in all things, we will have joy.  If we have an expectancy of good and look for it, God will bless that attitude.  I made a decision a number of years ago to exercise a grateful heart....to look for the things I should be noticing and glad about....to count my proverbial blessings.  Has everything been roses since I made that decision?  No, there's been death, illness, injury, and more, but as I look back, the Lord was with me through it all and gave me peace.   As you go forward into this new year, why don't you make a decision to "rejoice and be glad in it."  I hope you will.  You will never regret.  Happy New Year to all our friends.  We love you.

JUST ANOTHER PRETTY FACE

Did this back in August. Guess I'm a bit behind in posting things. Lots of classes I need to post too, but when it comes to doing or posting, I just think the "doing" has to take priority. Hope you all aren't too crazy with Christmas preparations in the west. Here in Ukraine that is all much more relaxed. No big rush of buying expensive "stuff." Remember, take time and breathe deep.

"Smile Cards"

Yesterday our post lady was ringing our bell before we were even out of bed. I didn't know she got around so early, but she had a package too big to put in our mail box. What a delight it was to open and see all these "Smile Cards" from Fiorella in Italy. In addition you can see the extra goodies she sent for our classes and crafting. For those who don't know, "Smile Cards" are what I give out to pastors and people who work with prisoners, home-bound, hospitalized and orphans. I just love being able to supply these cards because I know they will make someone smile over their beauty. For all the cards I receive, I put in a verse, word or poem of encouragement in their language. So a big THANK YOU to Fiorella for her kind heart in wanting to share her lovely talents with people here in Ukraine. If you would like to make some "Smile Cards" you can email me at coleenfranks@gmail.com for more details.

Smile Cards

Thank you to all who have sent "Smile Cards." This is Pastor Misha with whom I worked last week during one of our camps. I asked if he ever visited the sick. He said, "Of course," which I expected. So with some further explanation I sent him off with a handful of cards to put a "Smile" on someone's face. He thought it was a very interesting idea. These Ukrainian pastors are paid little, if at all. Most have side jobs so buying cards is just something they've never done. I hope to give him more soon. I feel so blessed to be able to do this. Thanks again for being a part of something bigger than all of us.

Smile Cards

Just wanted to say thanks to all who have sent Smile Cards. All that I've received so far have gone to prison ministry and I'm sure they will make some folks happy. One lady who works in the prisons asked if she could give some to some men who work in the men's prisons. She said that often men and women like to pass on the cards to their children. I have put words of encouragement on the backs in their language. I've also been told that there are some Sunday schools in America that are doing smile cards. This is of course, exciting to me since what I have had so far is not a large number, but appreciated by each individual that receives them. Thanks again to all who have sent. They really are beautiful cards that I am proud to pass on to the prison workers.

I Challenge You - Smile Cards

Friends, I have taken on a project that has been humming around in my head for a while. I take it to mean that it is spirit-led, as it just doesn't go away, so I'm now going after it. I'm writing so I might invite some of you to join me in this endeavor. The prisons in Ukraine are very dismal places. The elderly who are house-bound are often in a very depressing situation. I can't do much for all these people, but there are those who visit and minister to them. Therefore, what I can do is make pretty cards to give to those people to pass on. I invite you to do the same. I am making small 4x4 cards for economy sake. I'm using pretty pictures from magazines, Bible verses and poetry (in Russian of course), and anything that I think would put a smile on someone's face. You could do anything that you think would be an encouragement to someone. Pictures of flowers, animals and children are especially liked, but it doesn't have to be like that at all. Just use your imagination. Send one or send several and I will make sure they get into the right hands. If this interests you, email me at coleenfranks@gmail.com and I will give you a mailing address. May you be richly rewarded for your efforts.