Happy New Year

"O give thanks to the Lord for he is good for his steadfast love endures forever."
1 Chronicles 16:34 (NRSV)

For my 2010 New Year's Resolution, I am going to do "A Year of Thanks," where every day I write at least one thing I'm thankful for.

This may sound simple, but it's something that I feel I need to do. Like most people, I stay busy and often neglect spending time giving thanks to God for all he's done in my life. Therefore, my resolution for this year is to make time daily to do this.

Home

What is a home? Is it a structure built with four walls and a roof? Or is it more like the quote says, “Home is where the heart is”? I’m going with the second choice.

We moved around a LOT growing up – every year and a half to two years to be exact. And I’ll be honest…it was hard. Every time I got to be close to new friends, or got used to the way things were done at a certain school, etc., we had to move again.

At the time, I couldn’t understand why my parents (and why God) felt the need for my family and me to go through that. Why couldn’t God give my dad a church to pastor where we could stay for a long time? Why’d we have to go through some bad things at different churches he pastored? Why did some people claim to be Christians and treat us (their pastor and family) so bad? Why?

Then one day I realized something…Because of moving so much, I have friends all over the state (scratch that – all over the world). Yes, there were people that weren’t very nice to my dad and my family over the years, but there were far more good Christian people that were nice and did treat us like we weren’t just their pastor and his family…we were their family too.

Back to my point about the word “home”…

I always said I didn’t know where my home is. I’ve moved so much and lived in so many different places that I didn’t know where to call home. Then to make matters even more confusing (or so I thought), God calls me to Africa (thousands of miles and an ocean away). Because of this I really wouldn’t know where my home is. …or so I thought.

On July 30, 2009 that all changed. At a little before 6 a.m. that morning I stepped off the plane in Dakar, Senegal and honestly at the moment my feet touched the ground I knew something…I knew I was home. Home is where God calls me to be. Home is where the heart is. And Dakar is where my heart is. Will God change that one day? Possibly…I don’t know. But for now, this is my home. And I couldn’t be happier!

$20

A well-known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20.00 bill. In the room of 200, he asked,

"Who would like this $20 bill?" Hands started going up. He said, "I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first, let me do this. He proceeded to crumple up the $20 dollar bill. He then asked, "Who still wants it?" Still the hands were up in the air. Well, he replied, "What if I do this?" And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty.

"Now, who still wants it?" Still the hands went into the air. My friends, we have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. It was still worth $20. Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never lose your value..

Dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still priceless to those who DO LOVE you. The worth of our lives comes not in what we do or who we know, but by WHO WE ARE and WHOSE WE ARE. You are special. Don't EVER forget it"

If you do not pass this on, you may never know the lives it touches, the hurting hearts it speaks to, or the hope that it can bring. Count your blessings, not your problems.

"And remember: amateurs built the ark .. professionals built the Titanic.

If God brings you to it - He will bring you through it.

December 2009

"I’m dreaming of tan Christmas...just like the ones in Africa. Where the sand is so deep and the mosquitos seem to not sleep, but the love…it stretches so wide. Oh, I’m dreaming of a tan Christmas…”

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Welcome to the December 2009 Installment of the Elisabeth Chronicles. I changed the popular Christmas song to be a little more fitting for life here in Senegal. The sand is everywhere and the mosquitos never leave. However, even with those minor inconveniences, I love living here so very much. God has blessed me more than I can imagine this year and I can’t wait to see what He has in store for me next year.

I have been blessed with the opportunity to go back to Alabama for Christmas, which I’m very excited about. It will be very nice to see family and friends again…and even eat American food again.  But even as exciting as that is, I know the real reason for Christmas is not presents, good food, visiting family, etc. The real reason for Christmas is celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

And now for a little fun reading…The Birth of Jesus in the Words of my 3rd Graders

Now the clock struck the time that Augustus said he needed to count everybody in his empire. So Joe, which was short for Joseph, took Mary, his fiancee to his family’s city which was Bethlehem. They lived in Nazareth so it was a long ride. Joe and Mary probably rode on donkeys since cars hadn’t been invented yet. Mary was pregnant with God’s son. God was so sweet that he sent his son to our Earth to live and die, even though it made him sad.

When Joe and Mary got to Bethlehem they stopped at a hotel but the man that owned it said he was out of rooms. Then he told them that they could stay in his barn. After they’d tucked all the animals into bed, Mary and Joe were ready to go to bed. But God had other plans for them. Jesus was born that night, but since it was too late to go to a baby store and they probably didn’t have them anyway, Mary wrapped Jesus in a blanket so he was warm and snuggly and put him in a manger, which is a feeding place for animals.

That same night there were shepherds watching their sheep nearby. Angels appeared to the shepherds which probably scared them. But the angels weren’t trying to be scary. They wanted to tell the shepherds that Jesus had been born. When the angels went back to Heaven, the shepherds decided to make a visit to see Jesus. Also there were wise men who came to see Jesus and gave him gifts of gold, cents (frankincense), and a mirror (myrrh). They gave such nice gifts because Jesus was a king. He was a king because he was God’s son.

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For those of you that already support me each month financially, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you do not, and would like to, please contact me at enichols85@gmail.com or call my parents at 205-225-0255 and we can tell you how to do so. Any donations you make would be tax-deductible.

Merry Christmas from Africa,

Elisabeth Nichols
enichols85@gmail.com

Christmas in Many Languages

Merry Christmas (English)...Joyeux Noël (French)...Natal feliz (Portuguese)...Feliz Navidad (Spanish)...


Last night was the elementary Christmas program at my school. Students from a variety of nationalities sang and spoke about the birth of Jesus. It was so amazing to see everyone come together and share the true meaning of Christmas. There were Indian angels. There were Korean, American, and African sheep. The wise men were originally from Brazil, Nigeria, and Cameroon. And Mary and Joseph, the shepherds, and Adam and even were all American. And the choir was made up of all of those, plus Saudi Arabian, Senegalese, and more.

As one of my fellow teachers said, Seeds are being planted and this program was proof ...that different nationalities can live in Peace! Merry Christmas!

Randomness is a part of life...

Directions: You have to write a note with 16 random things, facts, habits or goals about you.

16. I never cooked before coming to Africa. I just thought I'd never like it. Now, I love it!
15. My dream job would be to be working in an orphanage somewhere, preferrably in a poverty-stricken place in Africa.
14. I love watching 18 Kids and Counting. I know people don't like this family for different reasons, but I honestly think it's refreshing to see a family that's not ashamed to talk about God on tv and who have good goals in life.
13. I was in college the first time I ate sour cream.
12. I love driving...just getting in the car and driving...no particular place in mind. That's why it's so hard here since I can't drive... :(
11. I've never been trick-or-treating...and it doesn't bother me...which is strange to some people...
10. My biggest fear in the world is that I'll never get married.
9. I don't know how to swim. Although...I did take one lesson at the Women's Retreat last week. So, I'm making a little progress.
8. I absolutely, positively LOVE cold weather! ...which is kind of funny, since I've NEVER lived anywhere that had really cold weather.
7. I want to learn how to play the violin.
6. I am about to start taking the Berean classes needed to get my Certified Minister's license with the A/G and I'm so excited about this!
5. I could never be a vegetarian.
4. I'm not a big fan of Obama, but I'm not going to bad mouth him.
3. Mosquitos seem to love me. There can be one mosquito in a room full of people and he'll zoom in on me. Grrr...
2. I love reading, but I have a hard time remembering what books are about...that's why I read a lot of books over and over again.
1. God has called me to be a missionary in Africa. I'm currently in Senegal (West Africa) teaching and ministering. I just feel so incredibly blessed that God trusted me with this gift of the call on my life. I can't wait to see what God has in store for me in the future.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is almost upon us. It is hard to believe that in a few days I'll have been in Senegal for 4 months. Where has the time gone? I have so many reasons to be thankful this year. Here's just a few (in no particular order)...

1) I serve an awesome God. I just love knowing that! :)
2) I am living/teaching/ministering in Africa. Wow! How absolutely positively amazing is that?!
3) I have the best group of students ever!
4) God has made my transition into life in Africa a good one. There have been minor bumps in the road, but nothing major. And I feel those minor bumps have made me better in the long run.
5) I have made some really good friends in the teaching and mission community here.
6) I have so many wonderful friends and family around the world that support me through love and prayer and encouragement.
7) My French is getting better each week. I have a wonderful French teacher. And I finally was able to carry on a whole conversation (more than just a few sentences) with her.
8) Somebody somewhere had the wonderful idea to invent Skype. This invention has not only saved me a lot of money, but has allowed me to stay in touch with my family and friends even while living thousands of miles away.
9) Cool season is finally here in Dakar. I am sooooo thankful for this one! :) This morning (Nov 24) was the first day that I said "I'm cold" since I've been here. Now, granted, that feeling didn't last all day, but it was wonderful and I was very thankful while it lasted. :)
10) I teach at a school where I'm able to freely talk about God and post scriptures on my wall. This is so wonderful and still brings a tear to my eye when I think about how great this is.

Now...what are some things you're thankful for this year?

Our Ticket in Life

This is a true story about something that happened to Corrie Ten Boom, the lady who protected and hid Jews in her home with her papa and sister, and was imprisoned in horrible concentration camps during the Hitler years.

As a small child, Corrie loved her papa. He was so kind and loving, and more jovial than the other members of the family. One day as Corrie sat on her papa's lap, she asked him, "Papa, what will I do someday, if a horrible trial comes to me? How will I handle it? I am afraid that something bad is going to happen to me, Papa."

Her papa said something like this: "Corrie, supposing I planned a train trip for you."

"Oh, papa! A train trip! How lovely!"

"Yes, but it is not time for the train trip yet. You will have to wait a few years, so I will not give you the ticket right now. You might lose it. When the time comes for your trip, darling, then I will give you the ticket. Until then, live for God and don't worry over things you can't control."

Just like this young version of Corrie, we are small children to our wonderful Father God. He knows when we are not ready to handle certain situations. He will make us ready in His time. He will give us the words to say when the right time comes. So don't worry, for the Holy Spirit will fill your mouth when that moment arrives. And this is your ticket, so to speak, to living for Christ. Each day has enough worries of it's own, Jesus says.

P.S. I got this from someone else, so I can't take total credit for this one. :)

Things I say now that a few months ago I would've never said...

Things I say now that a few months ago I would’ve never said…

1. I just bought some fruits and veggies. Let me get the bleach out so I can soak them.
2. Why’d I get ketchup and mustard packets with my pizza.
3. I’m walking to the store after I walk home from school.
4. Make sure you put filtered water in the ice trays, not straight faucet water.
5. I love going to Casino.
6. Hey – that person spoke English!
7. How do I tell the meat guy I do not want the head, feet, and other nasty internal nastiness in the bag with my chicken when he cuts it for me?
8. Can you translate this can of fruit for me?
9. Why do they keep milk on the shelf and not in the refrigerator?
10. I just paid $5.60 for a 2-liter bottle of diet pepsi and I don’t care. (only said this once)
11. I’m buying a liter of Obama.
12. I can make homemade spanish rice, salsa, sour cream, alfredo sauce, sloppy joe sauce, pizza sauce, etc.
13. She has a lot of kids in her class. She has 12.
14. How do you convert CFAs into US dollars?
15. I went to a dinner to help my new Canadian friends celebrate their Thanksgiving.
16. The smallest turkey, that will feed 3 to 4 people costs 20,000CFA (a little over $40.00).
17. How do you ask for a big bottle of water?
18. Cool season is almost here.
19. I miss driving.
20. Je voudrais un kilo viande hachee. (I would like one kilo (2.2lbs) of ground beef.)

October 2009

Welcome to the October Installment of The Elisabeth Chronicles.

~*~ Tales of My Third Graders ~*~

Student: Miss Nichols, I can't go to PE today.
Me: Why not?
Student: It's like 200 degrees out here and my brain's fried like french fries.
Me: Well, I think you'll be ok.
Student: Ok, but if my brain turns to mashed potatoes, it's not my fault.

Student: Miss Nichols, how old are you?
Me: I'm 24. Why?
Student: Wow! You're almost as old as Methuselah!

Student: Why did Bible men have two wives?
Me: Umm...Well...
Student: Well, I think it's crazy. I have two girlfriends and they drive me crazier than a cookie with no chocolate in it.

Me: Why aren't you swinging with the other kids?
Student: Back in my childhood, I liked to swing. But now that I'm old I don't like to anymore.
Me: *Thinking...He's 8 years old. When was his childhood?

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I have had the privilege of teaching my class for almost 3 months now. I am finally beginning to see their individual personalities and I am enjoying getting to know each of them. I love being able to share the word of God with these kids…some of which do not hear anything about God at home. It is truly a blessing to spend time with these 11 kids.

For the past month, I have been working one afternoon a week at Teen Bi (*bee*), a community center which teaches children English, art, music, etc., and also provides them with basic first aid and gives them time to play and have fun. I have mainly been assisting in the older girls’ class, teaching them English and crafts. These girls are so eager to learn. Even though my language skills are poor in French and non-existent in Wolof, I can still communicate the language of love. And that’s what makes a difference.

Some people have asked for a list of items that I need and want. So in this letter, I’ve included a wish list and an address for where cards and letters or packages can be sent to me. Please know I’m not sending this asking for these items. I’m just responding to what people have asked of me. Also, if you send a package, know that it’s typically cheaper to send one in a flat-rate U.S. postal box. If you have any questions about what can or cannot be sent or anything else, please let me know.

Thank you all for your prayers and support. This means so much to me. It’s so great to know that I have so many people “back home” and also abroad supporting me while I’m fulfilling the call God has placed on my life. When you pray, I ask that you specifically remember these things: 1) Pray for Senegal. This is a nation that is in desperate need of God. 2) Pray for all the missionaries in Senegal, working to further the kingdom of God. 3) Pray for Dakar Academy and its teachers and students. 4) Pray for me that I’ll continue to do and say all God wants me to. Also, pray that my French will improve.

If you already support me each month financially, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you do not, and would like to, please contact me at enichols85@gmail.com and I can tell you how to do so. Any donations you make would be tax-deductible.

May God Bless,
Elisabeth Nichols
enichols85@gmail.com

Elisabeth’s Wish List
You may send letters, cards, and packages to:
Elisabeth Nichols
Dakar Academy
B.P. 3189
Dakar, Senegal West Africa

Ziploc-type bags (all sizes – freezer and regular) – doesn’t have to be Ziploc bag (Dollar Tree brand is what I boughtJ)
Nuts – you can take them out of the can (if they’re canned) and put in Ziplocs to save weight/$$
Pepperoni
Yellow Mustard
Dried fruit
Candy (nothing that would melt too bad preferably)
Ranch dressing mix
Italian dressing mix
Seasoning packets (any kind)
Cocoa
Brownie/Cookie/Muffin mixes (usually smaller/weigh less)
Cornbread mixes
Packaged, microwaveable meals (those quick ones – nothing expensive)
Snack foods (nothing that would melt too bad preferably)
Individual packets of grits (I’m from the south and I love them…what else can I say?) JPop-Tarts (doesn’t have to be name brand – my favorite kind is the strawberry ones)
Stickers, pencils, or other small (cheap) toys to give as prizes to my students
Sticky notes (doesn’t have to be post-it brand – any brand is fine)
Lined, looseleaf paper
Cinnamon flavored gum
Note cards or stationery/envelopes (really any kind of paper/cards and/or envelopes)
Lead pencils (any size) and lead
Ink pens (I really like the SHARPIE brand ink pens and flair brand colored pens, but I would honestly be happy with any kind.)
Christmas time – candy canes
Chocolate chips
Peanut butter (I prefer crunchy, but either is fine.)
Kool-aid (any flavor) or flavored water packets
Jello and Instant pudding mixes
Clear Tape (any brand – doesn’t have to be scotch brand)
Books (no big preferences – except that they be clean and nothing sci-fi/mystery preferably)
Magazines (no big preferences)
Puzzle books
Holiday Decorations (inexpensive ones – wall decorations, plates/napkins, stickers, etc.)
Games (board games or card games – nothing expensive…just small to save on packing/$$)
T-shirts (adult XL) – clothes take a real beating here between the sun fading the fabric, and the harsh sand and water too
American stamps (There are always people going back to the US that can mail letters for us.)
Dvd’s or TV shows on dvd’s (I’m not hard to please… J If you’d like to see what I already have first, just ask…)
Cd’s (same as dvd’s/tv shows)
Itunes gift cards
Online Gift Certificates (I know Amazon.com ships overseas and many others do too…)

My Life in Shuffle Mode

1)Put your iPod on shuffle.
2)Write the first lines to each of the first 30 songs that play.
3)Post them here.
4)Make your friends guess the songs and artists.

1- You are the open door to freedom. You are the only hope I have.

2- Someday when my life has passed me by I'll lay around and wonder why...you were always there for me.

3- Tomorrow morning if you wake up and the sun does not appear, I will be here.

4- I see your mama and candles and tears and the roses I see your daddy walk his daughter down the aisle.

5- Where was the moment we needed the most? You kick up the leaves and the magic is lost.

6- Is it true today? That when people pray...cloudy skies will break, kings and queens will shake.

7- Did you forget...that I was even alive? Did you forget...everything we ever had?

8- I keep a close watch on this heart of mine. I keep my eyes wide open all the time..

9- Almighty God...The Great I Am...Immovable Rock...

10- He became sin who knew no sin...that we might become His righteousness...

11- I can almost see it...that dream I'm dreaming, but there's a voice inside my head saying you'll never reach it.

12- I think it'd be much easier if I could see you...If only I had a face to put with the name I love...

13- The sun is shining everyday. Clouds never get in the way...for you and me.

14- Well she got her daddy's car and she cruised through the hamburger stand now...

15- The wind is moving, but I am standing still...a life of pages waiting to be filled.

16- Love is a burning thing...and it makes a fiery ring...

17- Wonderful, so wonderful...is your unfailing love. Your cross has spoken mercy over me.

18- I've been hearing voices telling me that I can never be what I want to be...

19- Who taught the sun where to stand in the morning? And who told the ocean you can only come this far?

20- Head under water...and they tell me to breathe easy for a while...Breathing gets harder. Even I know that.

21- Come fly with me. Let's fly. Let's fly away.

22- I am unwritten...can't read my mind. I'm undefined.

23- He was a boy. She was a girl. Can I make it any more obvious?

24- There are days...when I feel...the best of me is ready to begin...

25- At twenty years of age, I'm still looking for a dream...A war's already waged for my destiny.

26- She spins and she sways to whatever song plays without a care in the world.

28- I probably shouldn't say this, but at times I get so scared...when I think of the previous relationship we shared.

29- I got chills! They're multiplying. And I'm losing control...

30- This is the life I've always wanted...to know the Prince of Peace...and to feel my faith restored...

Mosquitoes

Mosquitos are here to annoy, harrass, and help you finish your lovely day with a swat, a scowl, a scratch--and a "Where IS that blasted bug!" We can smile for we are indoors on our computers, away from the ornery little creatures (unless you have a laptop outside -- or you're in Africa where they follow you inside too!)

But did you know mini, menacing mosquitos--the "spiritual" kind--are all around you though, harrassing, annoying, distracting and diverting you from the work of the Lord in your life and through your life?

Mosquito Number One makes its grand entrance, buzzing around by day, when we're too BUSY to pray, then buzzing around by night, when we're too TIRED to pray. Communication with God gets lost in the craziness of your hecitic, busy days--you can make your own list of what you're doing--and all the while this little mosquito smiles away. He's diverted another Christian from the strength and power needed to fight the enemy....and he's the enemy! The devil would like nothing more than to keep you and me from a quiet time with our Lord. That's where our strength lies and he's won a battle when we're just TOO busy! Well, stop in your tracks--the house and the office work can wait.

Mosquito Numer Two and his cohorts take over! Listen to them confer among themselves: "Let's break down her Internet connection, let's get the kids in a major fight, let's cause criticism and hurts to annoy. She/he/they won't be able to focus on the work the Lord has called them ALL to do! They'll have to just focus on the hurts and the heaviness, the issues and irritations of life, and we'll build up the anxiety level till they're worthless for anything godly. No encouragement to others or service to God today--they're too busy swatting us all day!" Ever been there? I have--sometimes, the mosquitos come alone, sometimes in pairs, sometimes in a swarm--and you're left to swat the empty air in frustration, fear, anxiety, unbelief and despair.

Mosquitoes are tiny, little things, but let them buzz endlessly for minute after minute, which seems like hours, and they've GOT you! Stress mounts, anger flairs, irritation develops bigtime--and you've lost it, over a silly little mosquito! That's exactly what "he" wants--let the pressure build with the burdens and there goes her peace! There goes her rest in the Lord--out the window where the mosquito should be headed! Burdens are a part of life, but so many times we let them pile upon us without taking them to the Lord. The pressure builds and we've lost our peace. The little mosquito has done its job--he's happy and we're harrassed....but stop! There's hope for us all....read on!

Now here's where the fun begins! You see, you don't need any special equipment, except maybe a really good "swatter" to get the house and yard mosquito! But you are going to need bigtime equipment to get to the mosquitos under control in your spiritual life! You see, a tiny mosquito can become the "stronghold" of the house - unbelievable, but true. This miniature menace diverts, distracts and disturbs the life of the believer with annoyances, harrassments, little digs here and there, and then he smiles, for HE is in control! Now what to do--I mean, what to wear! Here it is--your guaranteed gear to successfully wear when swatting a spiritual mosquito. Ephesians 6:10-17 -- The Armor of the Lord.

So put on that helmet of salvation, wear that breastplate of righteousness, tighten up the tummy with the girdle of truth, get on those gospel-peace shoes, and hold up that shield of faith. Now you are fully dressed, and ready to wield the Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God--and that dratty little mosquito who's been bugging you all week has to GO!! Bzzzz away, you mini-menacing critter. You have no place in the life of a child of God and we will NOT be diverted, distracted or disturbed any longer by your clever schemes! GO in the Name of the Lord!

Exercise and God

I found out this morning I've lost 17 pounds since I've been here. I haven't been trying necessarily, but it's just happened.Of course, in the 3 months I've been here, I've started eating healthier (just by necessity and lack of McDonalds too). I walk more too (1/2 mi one way to school -- not to mention walking almost everywhere else). There's nothing like swating for Jesus. That's for sure.

This got me thinking. How is exercising, or working out, like serving God?

1) We have to strengthen our minds and bodies through prayer and devotion.
2) We have to take water breaks every now & then. These little breaks replenish our minds, bodies, and souls.
3) We need "workout buddies" to help encourage us along the way.
4) We have to spend time with our personal trainer (God). He has a plan set for us. He wants to work with us. Yes, He'll push us hard, but that's only because He wants us to succeed.

Too often people treat God like the newest, most trendy diet or exercise plan. It's fun to try for a while. Sure, I'll go to church every Sunday. Sure, I'll give my tithes and a nice offering when the plate comes around.

Then something changes. And that new "fad" of serving God isn't as appealing. Oh I'm sorry. I can't come to church this Sunday. My favorite tv show's on that day. Or oh I'm sorry. I can't pay my tithes this week. I'll just put a little change in and maybe no one will notice.

The excuses pile up and soon (just like with a lot of those new diet/exercise trends) you're not serving God anymore. God becomes a burden to you. You think you don't have time to pray or read your Bible or witness anymore.

But God's not a fad or a trend or the latest cool idea. God is God. God is constant. He never changes. And He never leaves us. Even when we ignore Him and don't treat Him the way we know we should, God still loves us. He still cares for us. He still wants to train us into the best shape (the best Christian person) we can be.

Why I Love Senegal

In my class of 10 students, there are 7 different nationalities. Only 1 of those is Senegalese. 6 are children of missionaries. 2 are children of embassy workers. And 2 are children of area business men. I love my little eclectic group of kids. They bring such diversity (and fun) to my day every day.

This week my school is celebrating Senegalese Awareness Week. These are just some of the reasons my kids said they love Senegal...
1) I can pray to God and go to church here.
2) I can walk to school and don't have to ride a stinky yellow bus. (cute, I know) :)
3) I can go to different villages and speak different languages.
4) I can go to school with people from different countries than me.
5) I can eat yummy food I can't eat in America.
6) I can learn about people different from me.

It got me thinking too. Why do I love Senegal? These are just a few reasons I came up with...
1) God called me here. So I am blessed enough to live, minister, and work in the place He’s called me to.
2) I get to use the French I learned in high school and college (and thought I’d never use).
3) I am able to talk about God and hang scripture verses on the wall in my classroom, without punishment.
4) I get to try new (and often tasty) foods.
5) I’ve learned to cook…and I think I’m actually getting pretty good at it.
6) I get more exercise. I walk ½ mile (one way) to school each day. I also walk to the grocery store and some other places.
7) I get to visit churches where the service is entirely in French or Wolof…which is a good thing, because I’m able to feel the Holy Spirit moving in a place full of people that are totally different. Does that make sense?

You Know You're From Alabama If...

You have a party or a barbeque whenever Alabama plays Auburn in football.
You go to Gulf Shores every summer.
You call the Atlanta Braves baseball team "us" like they're actually from Alabama.
You would much rather visit Florida than California.
You don't "take", you "carry" or "tote"... as in "You want me to carry you down to the store?" or "You want me to tote that box for you?"
A soft drink isn't soda, cola, or pop, it's Coke. "What kind of coke do you want?"
You call it a "buggy" and not a shopping cart.
You've said "fixin' to" at least once during the last week.
Someone you know has used a football schedule to plan their wedding date.
You know the meaning of the phrase "Fobbed again."
You can properly pronounce Arab, Eufaula, Opelika, Loachapoka, Bayou La Batre, and Oneonta. You know exactly what chitlins and mountain oysters are, and you know someone who eats them anyway.
You think that people who complain about the humidity in other states are sissies.
You aren't surprised to find rental movies, groceries, ammunition and bait all in the same store. People actually grow, eat, and like okra.
You measure distance in minutes.
You've ever had to switch from "heat" to "A/C" in the same day.
You know what "cow tipping" is.
The local papers cover national and international news on one page but require 6 pages for sports.
You think that the first day of deer season is a national holiday.
You know all four seasons: Almost summer, summer, still summer and Christmas (which often feels like summer).
You know whether another Alabamian is from east, west or middle Alabama as soon as they open their mouth.
You visit Wal-Mart at least once every other day.
You can drive without your license because you know if a cop stops you he'll know you and let you go.
You know the difference between redneck, hillbilly, and southerner.
You think everybody from the north has an accent.
Y'all is a word.
There is no such thing as tea.. it's sweet tea.
If a single snowflake falls, the town is paralyzed for three days and it's on all the channels as a news flash every 15 minutes for a week. All grocery stores will be sold out of milk, bread, bottled water, and toilet paper. If there is a remote chance of snow, and if it does snow, people will be on the corner selling "I survived the blizzard" tee-shirts, not to mention the fact that all schools will close at the slightest possible chance of snow.
Your directions include "when you see the Waffle House" or "turn on the dirt road."
You say "sir" and "ma'am" if there's even a chance someone is even thiry seconds older than you.
The falling of one rain drop causes all drivers to immediately forget all traffic rules; so will daylight savings time, a girl applying eye shadow in the next car, or a flat tire three lanes over.There is nothing but country on the radio.
Almost everyone you know is Baptist or Assemblies of God.
A Mercedes Benz isn't a status symbol. A Chevy Silverado Extended Bed Crew Cab is.
You know everything goes better with Ranch dressing.
You learned how to shoot a gun before you learned how to multiply.
Krispy Kreme doughnuts are the only doughnuts that exist.
You know at least one Bubba, and maybe a few guys named Bo.
You don't assume the car with the blinker light on is actually going to turn anytime in the near future.
Your idea of a traffic jam is ten cars waiting to pass a tractor.
You actually get these jokes.

Packing

Packing is something I HATE. I know that's a strong word, but it's true. I get so stressed out about packing for even a short weekend get away. So, you can imagine how I felt packing for Africa.

How do you plan for such a long time? How many outfits should I bring? How many bottles of shampoo should I bring? What food should I bring? What can I buy there? What American items will I miss the most? All of these questions rang through my head.

To me, this is similar to being called to the mission field. We want to hold on to the things of our past. We want to cling to our family and our friends and all the things that are familiar to us. We worry about whether we'll be able to learn the language. We worry about whether we'll adapt to a new culture...a new way of life. We worry about whether we are good teachers, preachers, leaders. Plain and simple...we worry.

But why? When God calls us to walk with Christ and serve him, he gives us exactly what we need to do so. Jesus sent the twelve disciples out on a very difficult mission. They were to spread the message of the kingdom of heaven.

In addition to that, they were not to take money or extra provisions with them. To the natural mind, embarking on such a mission might seem foolhardy. They had nothing for their physical needs except the clothes on their backs. They had no arrangements for where they would stay, and on top of that Jesus told them to expect hostility.

However, the spiritual side to this is quite different. In fact, in this area, they were well-prepared for their mission. Jesus gave them a very powerful tool that they would need to complete their mission: the authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and every sickness. He also gave them the promise of the Holy Spirit, who would give them the words to speak to their persecutors.

Each of us is called to follow Jesus and serve him in some special way. God has gifted all of us with unique combinations of talents and circumstances that can be used to bring him glory. Some of those gifts may be used for current tasks and some for future tasks. When we receive orders for a mission, we need not feel that we have to bring every talent and ability God has given us to bear to complete the mission. Like a hiker with a small backpack for a long journey, we only need to pack the items that God tells us to bring.

September 2009

Welcome to the September Installment of The Elisabeth Chronicles! It’s hard to believe that on September 30, I will have been in Senegal for 2 months. The time has definitely flown by!

We’ve been in school for almost 6 weeks now. I now have 9 students, with two more coming in the next few weeks. My class will be comprised of 6 boys and 5 girls. There are 4 Americans, 1 British, 1 Brazilian, 1 Nigerian, 1 Senegalese, 1 Saudi Arabian, 1 Indian, and 1 from Cameroon. Of those, 6 are from missionary families, 3 are from embassy families, and 2 are from business families. Only 7 of these families are of the Christian faith. Of the others: One is Muslim, one is Hindu, and the other two are unknown. Please pray for my students (and the school’s other students as well). Pray that the Christian values we are teaching them stick. Pray that one day, these students will be able to take what they’ve learned back to their “home” countries and spread the Gospel there.

Since I last wrote, I had the pleasure of going on Dakar Academy’s Staff Retreat to the nearby city of Saly. We stayed in a very nice “resort,” where I was able to enjoy the luxury of the swimming pool, the beach and nearby shops, good food and fellowship, and air conditioned rooms. *This is always a plus here. :) It was a great time of rest and relaxation and fellowship with my fellow staff/board members. I also got to spend a little more time getting to know the McLanes during this time as well. I feel so privileged to have been given the opportunity to work with, learn from, and get to know this missionary family.

I have also started reading a new book: Twelve Ordinary Men by John MacArthur. It is about the lives of the twelve disciples of Jesus and how they were just ordinary men called to do great things for God. I’ve always questioned why God chose me to be in the ministry. I often feel that I’m not a great speaker or leader. I still get nervous when I speak in front of a group of people. I’m not the best at remembering the exact scripture verse to give someone in different situations. I don’t possess any awesome talents or skills. I often feel that I’m just too ordinary to be used by God. But then I remember something. God takes ordinary people and transforms them into something extraordinary. Just as Jesus chose twelve “ordinary” men and trained them to spread His Gospel, He chose me and is training me to do the same.

A lot of people have been asking for a list of items I need/want. So in this e-mail, I’ve included a sort of wish list. Please know I’m not sending this asking for these items, I’m just responding to what a lot of people have asked. J Also, if you do send a package, know that it’s typically cheaper to send one in a flat-rate US Postal box and please let me know when you mail it, so I can be prepared to pay the small tax/fee to pick it up. If you have any questions about what can or can’t be sent or anything else, please let me know. Also, if you would like any contact information (address, phone numbers) for me, please let me know.

Thank you all for your prayers and support. This means so incredibly much to me. It is so wonderful to know I have so many people “back home” and abroad supporting me while I am fulfilling the call God has placed on my life. When you pray, I ask that you specifically remember these things…1) Pray for Dakar Academy and its teachers and students. 2) Pray for all the lost people in Senegal. 3) Pray for the missionaries in Senegal, working to further the kingdom of God. 4) Pray for me. I am starting French classes today (the 28th). Also, [ray that I do the things God wants me to do, say the things God wants me to say, and go to the places God wants me to go.

If you already support me each month financially, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you do not, and would like to, please contact me at enichols85@gmail.com and I can tell you how to do so. Any donations you make would be tax-deductible.

May God Bless,Elisabeth Nicholsenichols85@gmail.com

Elisabeth’s Wish List

Ziploc-type bags (all sizes – freezer and regular) – doesn’t have to be Ziploc bag (Dollar Tree brand is what I bought)
Nuts – you can take them out of the can (if they’re canned) and put in bags to save weight/$
Dried fruit
Candy (nothing that would melt too bad preferably)
Ranch dressing mix
Italian dressing mix
Seasoning packets (any kind)
Cocoa
Brownie/Cookie/Muffin mixes (usually smaller/weigh less)
Cornbread mixes
Packaged, microwaveable meals (those quick ones – nothing expensive)
Snack foods (nothing that would melt too bad preferably)
Individual packets of grits (I’m from the south and I love them…what else can I say?)
Pop-Tarts (doesn’t have to be name brand – my favorite kind is the strawberry ones)
Stickers, pencils, or other small (cheap) toys to give as prizes to my students
Sticky notes (doesn’t have to be post-it brand – any brand is fine)
Lined, looseleaf paper
Cinnamon flavored gum
Note cards or stationery/envelopes (really any kind of paper/cards and/or envelopes)
Lead pencils (any size) and lead
Ink pens (I really like the SHARPIE brand ink pens and flair brand colored pens, but I would honestly be happy with any kind.)
Christmas time – candy canes
Chocolate chips
Peanut butter
Kool-aid (any flavor) or flavored water packets
Jello and Instant pudding mixes
Clear Tape (any brand – doesn’t have to be scotch brand)
Books (no big preferences – except that they be clean and nothing sci-fi/mystery preferably)Magazines (no big preferences)
Puzzle books
Holiday Decorations (inexpensive ones – wall decorations, plates/napkins, stickers, etc.)
Games (board games or card games – nothing expensive…just small to save on packing/$$)
T-shirts (adult XL) – clothes take a real beating here between the sun fading the fabric, and the harsh sand and water too
American stamps (There are always people going back to the US that can mail letters for us.)Dvd’s or TV shows on dvd’s (I’m not hard to please… Just ask If you’d like to see what I already have first, just ask…)
Cd’s (same as dvd’s/tv shows)
Itunes gift cards
Online Gift Certificates (I know Amazon.com ships overseas and many others do too…)

God, you want me to do what?!

Saturday I was asked if I wanted to do Children's Church at one of the African churches some time soon.

My first reaction was almost shock -- He wants me to do what?! Then I asked if he was serious and he said he was and then asked, wasn't that what you were wanting to do here? I answered yes (with a little hesitation in my voice). And he said ok then, why don't you do it then? I then said, I don't know if I could do that by myself. He said, Oh yeah you could and then the subject got changed after that and it was left at that.

The rest of the afternoon and throughout the night (I couldn't sleep.) I kept thinking about him asking me this. The devil kept putting thoughts in my head, like...You're not good enough. You can't speak French. You're not even a real missionary.

So during thenight I was still praying about this and finally felt peace about it. I heard God say, Elisabeth I wouldn't call you to do a ministry if I'm not going to be with you and help you and take care of you. Why do you worry about these things? And this is the verse he gave me...

"I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is always right beside me." Psalms 16:8

Yes, I may be nervous. Yes, I might even mess up. But God will be right beside me.

Technology

My ipod's not working. An error message popped up and when I called the technical support people the lady sent me an e-mail of things to try, none of which have worked. So either a miracle happens and my ipod starts working again, or I'm going to have to call in on my warranty (I've only had it 6mths.) and get another one, which will be hard since they're in America and I'm in Africa! Grr to technology...

This is my latest status update on Facebook. And I called my mom on Skype and as soon as she asked how I was doing, I launched into a big spill about my ipod not working and blah, blah, blah and why me. And in the midde of my moaning and groaning and pity party, I remembered something.

Just last week gave a devotion at school, in which I said -- Remember, we need to not worry, but be happy. Plus, technology isn't all bad. It does make my life a LOT easier and it helps me stay in contact with all my family and friends since we're separated by thousands and thousands of miles. Plus, I've only had my ipod for less than 6 months, so it's still under warranty, so I could have it replaced/fixed.

My point is this...Sometimes we focus so much on the bad things that happen in life, that we forget good things happen too. We need to take time daily to thank God for all of these good things, like...

1) We didn't have running water when I woke up today, but it came on later in the day.

2) The electricity has not gone off in almost a full week.

3) I'm surrounded by people that daily encourage me.

4) I'm teaching in a Christian school -- which means I can post scripture on the wall and I can pray in class, all without fear.

5) I'm in Africa. I'm working with children. I'm doing what God has called me to do.

6) I'm saved, filled with the Holy Spirit, and working on the mission field.

7) God loves me.

Elisabeth Needs...

This is a silly little fad for bored people (like me right now). You google your name and Needs in quotes ["elisabeth needs"]. I got some interesting ones and some not-so interesting ones...

1. Elisabeth needs coffee.
2. Elisabeth needs to raise her voice.
3. Elisabeth needs to shut up. (It kind of contradicts the last one, doesn't it?)
4. Elisabeth needs a vacation.
5. Elisabeth needs to wake up.
6. Elisabeth needs a reality check.
7. Elisabeth needs to stay home.
8. Elisabeth needs a date.
9. Elisabeth needs to find a new doctor.
10. Elisabeth needs guidance and clarity.

Don't Worry. Be Happy.

Did you know that God wants you to be happy? He does. He really does.

I know what you're thinking. Duh, of course God wants us to be happy. Why are you asking that question?

But often, Christians are walking around worrying about things going on in their lives, their families, their world. They are walking around looking sad and just truly unhappy. They complain about every little thing -- whether that be the electricity going out, mosquito bites, or even health problems.

Oh wait. I'm talking about myself here. I've been in Senegal for 6 weeks now. The power has been going out almost every day. The mosquitos here love me. I get at least one new souvenir bite every day. I've been sick 3 times -- and had to see a doctor 2 of those times. I've been on all kinds of medicine -- including medicines to treat the allergic reaction I had to one of those.

Through those times, I know I did not act happy all the time. I cried. I complained. I was just in a good ol' fashioned bad mood. And all the while I was not doing what God wanted me to do. I was not acting happy. I was worrying about everything and not letting God take control, like I know I was supposed to.

In Philippians 4:6, Paul writes "Don't worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he's done." (NLT) There are 3 clear commands in this verse.

1) Don't worry about anything.

2) Pray about everything.

3) Thank God for all he's done.

It's simple. God is in control of our lives. God loves us and wants to help us. And we should let him. We should not worry about things in our lives. We should pray about it -- tell God what's going on, what we need help with, etc. -- and let God take care of it. And last, (but not least) we should thank God for everything. P.S. This doesn't just mean thank God for the good things. Everything happens for a reason (even bad things). We need to still thank God in the midst of our troubles.

Do you remember the Big Mouth Billy Bass? It was a popular item (at least it was in the South) during the 90's. It was this fish that was mounted on the wall and had this motion sensor on it. So when someone would walk by, it would start singing, "Don't worry. Be happy now..."

August 2009

Welcome to the August Installment of The Elisabeth Chronicles!

A lot has happened since the last installment. I arrived in Dakar, Senegal on Thursday, July 30th. As strange as it sounds, the minute I stepped off the airplane I felt as if I were home. To know that I am where God has called me to be is such an awesome feeling. I had one week to rest, relax, and get used to my surroundings before starting to work. During that week, I had many missionaries and fellow teachers invite me to dinner, which was nice because I was able to get to know so many people before school (work) started and things got busy. Also during that week I was able to spend a lot of quiet time with God…just praying and reading and studying his Word.

I started to work. I had 5 days of orientation (meetings) before school officially started on the 12th. I went on a tour of Dakar with my fellow new teachers which was nice. I found out where all the grocery stores, fruit/veggie stands (markets), and bakeries were. I found out where all the good restaurants and ice cream shops (yay!) were. I also found out where the pharmacies and doctors offices were (which came in handy not too long afterwards). And I found out where all the shopping places are and got my first taste of the Fuki (“fookee”). This is a 1 mile long outdoor market held on Saturdays. It’s similar to a really big yard sale, with lots of used clothing among other things. It’s VERY crowded, so you learn quickly to accept people in your personal space. J

I did have a couple (very minor) health issues. After I’d been here a week I got, what most here call the “Welcome to Africa stomach bug,” which lasted about 12 hours. And after being here about 3 weeks, I got a severe urinary tract infection, requiring me to make a visit to the doctor. I then developed an allergic reaction to the first antibiotic she prescribed so I had to call and get another antibiotic prescribed. And after taking that one and Benadryl for the allergic reaction, and lots of prayer, I finally got over the UTI. But as I’ve told some people already…I know God had a reason for me to go through that pain and sickness. I spent more time in prayer and reading scriptures during that time than I have in a long time and I really believe God had me go through something like that so I’d learn to rely on Him more. So I say Thank you God…lesson learned!

I have been practicing my French more and learning phrases in Wolof (another language spoken here). I love going to the grocery store and markets (fruit/veggie stands) and practicing. The owners/workers of these places are very nice and are always patient with my elementary speaking abilities and help me find the words to say. Plus, the night guard at the school teaches me new phrases almost every afternoon when I leave school. And on the 30th, I went to my first African service, which was almost entirely in French.

I walk just about everywhere I go, which is nice because I’ve been able to see all the little things showing God’s hands at work. I see such beautiful flowers blooming. I see all the little critters along the way like the brightly colored lizards and birds. I love these times, because I’m able to pray and just have some “God time.” I thank God for all of these beautiful things he’s created and for allowing me to be here to enjoy them. I also thank God for missionaries, Tom and Marla McLane. I’ve been able to hear Tom speak at the African service and I’ve been able to get to know them all a little. So I’m looking forward to getting to know them all a lot more in the coming time.

Thank you all for your prayers and support. This means so incredibly much to me. It is so wonderful to know I have so many people “back home” and abroad supporting me while I am fulfilling the call God has placed on my life. When you pray, I ask that you remember these things…1) Pray for Dakar Academy and its teachers and students. 2) Pray for all the lost people in Senegal. 3) Pray for the missionaries in Senegal, working to further the kingdom of God. 4) Pray for me. Pray that I do the things God wants me to do, say the things God wants me to say, and go to the places God wants me to go.

If you already support me each month financially, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you do not, and would like to, please contact me at enichols85@gmail.com and I can tell you how to do so. Any donations you make would be tax-deductible.

Don’t forget to check out my blog at http://elisabethchronicles.blogspot.com.

May God Bless,
Elisabeth Nichols
enichols85@gmail.com

Looks Can Be Deceiving

This blog was also written while I was on the plane heading to Dakar.

Have you ever heard the saying, "Looks can be deceiving"? Well, I just experienced that saying first-hand.

I just finished my in-flight dinner, comprised of some beef and rice dish, salad, bread and cheese, a brownie, and what I thught was turnip greens. That's where the deceiving part comes in...with the green substance on my meal tray. Any true Southern (and Alabama) girl should know her greens. I think it's programmed into our DNA when we're created. Anyways...I took one bite, expecting to taste turnip greens and boy was I disappointed. It was spinach with some kind of potato in it...not turnip greens.

So...the reason for me sharing this is to make a comparison. Sometimes looks can be deceiving when it comes to Christians too. Sometimes they go to church, raise their hands, pray, maybe even have roles of leadership. They do it all and on the outside they look like a Christian, but when they're alone they're different. They watch movies and t.v. shows they shouldn't watch. They say words they shouldn't say. They participate in activities they shouldn't participate in. They do all these things when no one is watching...

Of course this really isn't the case. There is someone who is watching all the time... God knows everything we do and say. So why do we try and hide from him?

I can sum all I've said in three sentences. A Christian should live his/her life the same on the inside and the outside. Don't let anyone, including yourself, be deceived by your looks. Let everyone know who you are and what you stand for.

**Disclaimer... this isn't the best picture of turnip greens, but the only one I could find. :)

In Flight

So...this was originally written while I was on the airplane. However, since this is the first time I've had enough time to update, here is this blog... :)

Welcome to the In-Flight Installment of The Elisabeth Chronicles!

I'm sitting on the plane now heading to Dakar, Senegal to begin my journey on fulfilling the calling that God has placed on my life.

This morning I experienced a variety of emotions. i felt sad about leaving my family, my church family, my friends, and even my dog... :) ...not to mention leaving the only life I've known for my 23...almost 24...years of life.

However, as sad as it was to leave my family, i still feel happy and excited about this new adventure in my life. God has blessed me so incredibly much with this gift -- this calling -- and I cannot wait to see what all God has in store for me!

Once again, thank you to everyone backing me with encouragement, prayer, and support. You all mean so very much to me!

A Big To Do List

There were so many things I had to do before leaving for Africa, so I've been checking things off every day from the biggest To Do list I've ever written. Here are just a few things I've checked off my list.

-- Go to Wal-Mart to get supplies...and I did this at least a zillion times (or so it seems), including the 2 1/2 hour long trip and the 1 hour long trip.

-- Go on one last Daddy-Daughter date...We went to see G-Force & to eat dinner at Outback, our favorite place to go together.

-- Spend the day with my mom...We went shopping and to eat lunch at Taco Bell, our favorite place to go together.

-- Spend the day with my "2nd mom" (my Aunt Sandra)...We went to the Peach Park to eat lunch and went window shopping (which is much more fun than shopping for real...you get to save your $$) :)

-- Have a going-away party with my closest friends and family

-- Write letters to each of my kids (from Children's Church)

-- Write letters to my parents and brother and sister-in-law...I'm a letter writer. Can you tell?

-- Send a million or so thank-you notes...at least that's what it seemed like...the lady at the Post Office knew me on a first-name basis after a while :)

-- Get a yellow fever shot...not a fun experience.

-- Start taking anti-malaria meds...It was kind of interesting to see the faces of the pharmacy staff when they saw I needed a year's worth. :)

-- Pack...I was dreading this more than anything. I absolutely positively HATE packing. Therefore, when I had to pack for a year I was dreading it. :)

And I could go on and on... I'm a big list-maker and I love being able to check things off of my to do lists. So, it was almost like a challenge to check different things off this list.

July 2009 E-mail

Hi everyone!

Welcome to the July installment of The Elisabeth Chronicles. Since this is the first installment, I thought I’d share my testimony and calling with all of you.

About five years ago God called me to work with the people of Africa…more specifically with the children of Africa. Now at the time I didn’t know exactly where in Africa that’d be, but I knew it would happen. I had just returned from a short mission trip to South Africa and could not get the pictures out of my head. I saw children that were yearning for something greater than food and presents. Sure they enjoyed those things we gave them, but they all wanted more. They wanted to fill the emptiness that was in their hearts. They wanted someone that would be with them forever, someone that would never leave nor forsake them. They wanted to know the love of Jesus Christ. In fact, there was one children’s service held at a village school that we ministered at that I will never forget. In fact there is a moment in that service that is permanently stuck in my mind. The preacher had asked the children if there were any that wanted to ask God into their hearts, to forgive them of their sins, and live with them forever, and at least a hundred children raised their hands, with tears in their eyes, saying yes they wanted to know more about God. They wanted God in their hearts and lives.

That’s when I knew. God wanted me to minister to children like those. And there was a reason that God had me going to college to get an education degree. For as long as I can remember I’ve wanted to become a teacher. And now I know that was all part of God’s master plan. In fact, this August I will begin teaching 3rd grade at Dakar Academy in Dakar, Senegal…which is in West Africa. This school is owned by the Assemblies of God, United World Mission, and World Venture (formerly known as Conservative Baptist International). It is a school for the children of missionaries, embassy officials, and others. Along with teaching I will also be working with Assembly of God missionaries, Tom and Marla McLane, in ministering to the people of the local villages.

This is such an awesome opportunity and I feel so incredibly blessed to have been granted the chance to do it. And yes, I will need financial help. The school will furnish housing and a small stipend every month, but not enough to fully live on. But more importantly than the financial help, I’m asking for spiritual help. More than anything I need your prayers. I need men and women praying for me that I’ll say and do the right things…that I’ll go to the right places and minister to the right people…that I’ll continue to do what God wants me to do.
If you would are already supporting me through prayers and through monthly pledges, I thank you. If you are not currently supporting me financially, I ask you to consider this in the future. And please know that any contributions (whether they be monthly pledges or one-time offerings) can be tax-deductable. Just make your check out to Abundant Life Assembly of God (my home church) and they will then turn around and send the money to me and send you a statement at the end of the year showing your tax-deductible gift.

Thank you and God bless,
Elisabeth Nichols
enichols85@gmail.com

Senegal Address:
Elisabeth Nichols, Dakar Academy
B.P. 3189
Dakar, Senegal – West Africa

USA Address:
Abundant Life A/G
P.O. Box 130
Brent, Alabama 35034 – USA

My Parents

Dad -- I'm a daddy's girl, that's for sure. My dad is my hero. He's shown me how a Christian man, husband, and father should act. He's battled cancer and came away with a testimony of healing that will always bring me to tears.

Mom -- My mom's my best friend, and always has been. I've always been able to talk to her about anything. She's given me what I feel to be the best possible example of a Christian woman, wife, and mother. She's overcame a lot in her life and has never waivered in her walk with God.

My parents are truly awesome people. I've been so blessed to have been born into the family I was. I've aways felt this way, but now that the time for me to move to Africa is soon approaching I feel it even stronger. We've always been a very close family, so I know it's going to be hard at times being thousands of miles away from them. However I'll be able to remember what they've always taught me... God is in control. And if God calls you to do work for him (even thousands of miles away from your family) He will take care of you. Plus...God will never put more on you than He knows you can handle.

My prayer for today is... Dear Lord, please help me to make my parents proud. Help me to do what you have called me to do to the best of my ability. And Lord, help me not to miss them so much that I lose sight of what I'm there to do. Help both myself and my parents through the times of sadness and "missings."

The 12 Opossums

The following is from a lady in Oregon. It is priceless! The Bible explained by kids - truth has been redefined!

One of our favorite jobs has been leading Children’s Church. We try to do more than baby-sit our church's beloved little ankle-biters during their time in our special Children’s Church facility. We aim to give them a solid background in biblical history. At the end of each year we give the kids pencils and paper and ask them to chronicle what they have learned. This assignment never fails to elicit some intriguing responses. In case you're a little foggy on your biblical history, let our students help you with this complete overview of the Bible, compiled from their essays.

In the beginning, which occurred near the start, there was nothing but God, darkness, and some gas. The Bible says, 'The Lord thy God is one,' but I think He must be a lot older than that. Anyway, God said, 'Give me a light!' and someone did. Then God made the world. He split the Adam and made Eve. Adam and Eve were naked, but they weren't embarrassed because mirrors hadn't been invented yet. Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating one bad apple, so they were driven from the Garden of Eden. Not sure what they were driven in though, because they didn't have cars. Adam and Eve had a son, Cain, who hated his brother as long as he was able (get it – Abel).

Pretty soon all of the early people died off, except for Methuselah, who lived to be like a million or something. One of the next important people was Noah, who was a good guy, but one of his kids was kind of a ham. Noah built a large boat and put his family and some animals on it. He asked some other people to join him, but they said they would have to take a rain check.

After Noah came Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jacob was more famous than his brother, Esau, because Esau sold Jacob his birthmark in exchange for some pot roast. Jacob had a son named Joseph who wore a really loud sports coat.Another important Bible guy is Moses, whose real name was Charlton Heston. Moses led the Israel Lights out of Egypt and away from the evil Pharaoh after God sent ten plagues on Pharaoh's people. These plagues included frogs, mice, lice, bowels, and no cable. God fed the Israel Lights every day with manicotti. Then He gave them His top ten commandments. These include don't lie, cheat, smoke, dance, or covet your neighbor's bottom (the Bible uses a bad word for bottom that I'm not supposed to say. But my Dad uses it sometimes when he talks about the President). Oh, yeah, I just thought of onemore: Humor thy father and thy mother.

One of Moses' best helpers was Joshua, who was the first Bible guy to use spies. Joshua fought the Battle of Geritol and the fence fell over on the town. After Joshua came David. He got to be king by killing a giant with a slingshot. He had a son named Solomon who had about 300 wives and500 porcupines. My teacher says he was wise, but that doesn't sound very wise to me.

After Solomon there were a bunch of major league prophets. One of these was Jonah, who was swallowed by a big whale and then barfed up on the shore. There were also some minor league prophets, but I guess we don't have to worry about them.

After the Old Testament came the New Testament. Jesus is the star of the New Testament. He was born in Bethlehem in a barn. (I wish I had been born in a barn, too, because my mom is always saying to me, Close the door! Were you born in a barn?' It would be nice to say, 'As a matter of fact, I was.')

During His life, Jesus had many arguments with sinners like the Pharisees and the Republicans. Jesus also had twelve opossums. The worst one was Judas Asparagus. Judas was so evil that they named a terrible vegetable after him. Jesus was a great man He healed many leopards and even preached to some Germans on the Mount. But the Republicans and all those guys put Jesus on trial before Pontius the Pilot. Pilot didn't stick up for Jesus. He just washed his hands instead.

Anyways, Jesus died for our sins then came back to life again. He went up to Heaven, but will be back at the end of the Aluminum. His return is foretold in the book of Revolution.

There! Now you understand it, right? :)

Saying Goodbye to My Kids

Yesterday was especially hard for me. A girl (my possible replacement) came to check out our church. After church one of my kids (a 5 year old adorable boy) came up to her, grabbed her hand, and said I'll show you around our Children's Church room if you come with me. Now, let me first say, that I'm proud that he was so polite and friendly to her. But, I broke down. I started crying right then. And I HATE crying in public...especially in front of my kids. So, I tried sneaking out the back door and going to wait in the car so they wouldn't see me crying. Then, one of my other kids (the 11 year old tender-hearted boy I bring to church every week) saw me crying and came to the car and asked me why I was crying. Therefore, on the way taking him home I explained to him how sad it is for me to leave them and how much I'm going to miss each one of them. This made him cry...which of course made me cry even more.

On Sunday, July 26 I'll say goodbye to my kids (my Children's Church kids). I've watched these kids grow so much in the last year...not only physically, but spiritually and socially. These kids have definitely attached themselves to my heart. And as each day passes I begin missing them more and more. And as bad as I hate it, I know I'll break my no crying in public rule.

5 Things You May Not Know About Me

So...I stole the idea for this blog from a friend of mine. It's kind of neat to learn new things about your friends, so I thought hey, why not do it myself. Here's five things about me that very few people know.

1) I want to skydive.

2) I used to not want to share my testimony because I felt it wasn't a good one because I wasn't delivered from anything really bad. I was saved as ayoung child and have lived for the Lord ever since. (I now think otherwise.) :)

3) I used to want to be a figure skater. Funny since I've never ice skated before. :)

4) I used to love to watch Batman. And when I was in 2nd grade, I wrote Batman as my name on an assignment and lied and told the teacher the boy next to me wrote it on my paper. I know, I know...that was bad. :)

5)My biggest fear in the world is that I'll never get married and have children.

My Papa

Claude Nichols is a great man. He's a devoted husband, a loving father, and the best grandfather and greatgrandfather there ever was. He is a Korean War veteran. He is a cancer survivor. He is a child of God. He is a confidant, a mentor, a hero. He is my papa.

I remember...

- playing my little plastic guitar with him playing his guitar at church.

- him coming to our house on his lunch break giving me "pite" -- Well, I don't remember this one since I was only a few years old.

- him letting me and my brother catch minnows at the bait shop when we were little.

- him bringing us food when we were out of electricity for 2 weeks after a hurricane.

- him crying telling his church how proud he was of me for becoming a missionary.

I have so many memories of my Papa and I know there will be more memories to come. But I know that, at 79 years old, our time together is running low. I know this is a somewhat morbid blog, but I've been thinking a lot about this lately, especially since I'll soon be living across the "big pond" from him.

My prayer for today is... Dear Lord please heal my Papa. Help him to get healthier and stronger every day. Lord help my family and myself value each moment we are given with him. And Lord, in the event that something does happen while I'm thousands of miles away, please help me to be at peace since I wouldn't be able to come back. Help me to realize that in the case of that event, I should rejoice, not cry, because I know that my incredible Papa is in Heaven with you.

Kids say the sweetest things...

Miss Elisabeth, I'm going to miss you ever so much when you go across the ocean.

This is what one of my kids from Children's Church said to me tonight. I couldn't speak at first. I just hugged him. Then I told hm that was the sweetest thing anyone's ever said to me. And it was...

In the past year and a half I've grown to love this group of kids. They range in age from 4 to 12, and all are so close to my heart. It's going to be hard to leave them, but I know God will send someone even better than me (hard, I know) :) to take my place.

So, in conclusion, here's some of the sweet (and funny) things my Children's Church kids have said...

"How long will it take you to drive to Africa?" Well sweetie, I'll be flying. It's too far to drive. "But Miss Elisabeth, we go to the beach every year and it's a far drive."

"Jesus is the Life of Bread. He gives us life like bread...long and healthy." -- on explaining how Jesus is the Bread of Life.

"Heal these bodies Lord and save them so they don't get super hot in the bad place." -- a prayer for the sick people and lost people in the world.

"Jesus loves everybody and he doesn't care what color people are...white, black, blue, green. He loves them all." Sweetie, there aren't blue and green people. "Yes ma'am there is. Those are my friends you and mama can't see." -- a 4 year old telling me that Jesus loves everybody (even imaginary friends)

My prayer for tonight...

Dear Lord, please help these children grow into the adults you want them to be. Help them reach their full potentials in whatever you call them to do. And Lord, please let the person that takes my place love these children as much as I have.

In 21 days, my life will change...

In exactly 21 days, I will embark on a journey that will forever chnge my life. I will be flying from Atlanta, Georgia to Dakar, Senegal (West Africa) to begin my tenure as a 3rd grade teacher at Dakar Academy. I will also be working alongside Assembly of God missionaries, Tom & Marla McLane, in their ministry there.

Nine years ago God called me to work with children. Since I’d always dreamed of becoming a teacher, I assumed that’s what God had planned for me to do. Four years later, while on a mission trip to South Africa, God furthered that by calling me to the mission field and then the following year He confirmed what I’d been dreaming of. God called me to the mission field of Africa.

The reality of this has finally sunk in. In 3 weeks, I'll be living quite a few miles and an ocean away from my family, friends, church, and the place I currently call "home." I can't wait until the time comes that I am able to call the people I live around, work with, teach, worship with, and minister to, my family, friends, and church...and the place I am moving to "home."

My prayer for today is...

Dear Lord, please use me in a mighty way in this journey. Help me to further your kingdom. Please help me to do and say the right things. Help me to learn from those already there. Help me to make this place I am going to home.