Thursday, July 28, 2011
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
CAMPERS OF THE WORLD UNITE
Wow it has been a long time since we have been able to blog to you guys. Last time I blogged we were discouraged about our time here on the Ranch. On July 11th we departed for the Brooks Range for camp. We took a couple hours at the Palmer airport, and then set off for Fairbanks in which we came upon some turbulence, SCARY, but we all ended up making it perfectly fine. We then made it to Paradise Valley in great time. The Lord blessed the day with great sunshine and beautiful fluffy clouds. We have always seen it as hilarious that the campsite (an old mining grounds) is called Paradise Valley because the view is great, of course, but once you step out of the airplane; swarming mosquitos. Ah!
Daniel and I were designated as the activities directors of camp this year. We came in with a great plan and plenty of supplies. We also came in with willing hearts and with the thought, "Blessed are the flexible, for they do not get bent out of shape." The kids camp I (Kathryn) was a counselor as well as working alongside my partner Daniel as activity director. Daniel did such a great job in implementing the games that were planned. As it said it is better to go in with a plan than not have one at all. We had a plan but we definitely remained flexible because things changed constantly. Camp in the Brooks Range is much different from camp in the Lower 48 (as alaskans call it). The village life is not easy living. The kids of the village deal with and experience much more than should experience and so therefore in a sense the kids hearts are tougher. Life in the village leads many to depression, alcohol, and drugs, or worse. The kids as they come to camp are overwhelmed by the sense of love that they receive from the staff. As we received kids this year it brightened our hearts; some of the kids ran up to Daniel and I screaming our names- oh wow what a way to stir our hearts! Kids camp had its amazing moments, as well as challenges. The campers and staff memorized the armor of God, Ephesians 6:10-20, which was a great way to encourage them. This verse also brought a lot of spiritual warfare as well; the kids kept complaining that they were bored or that they wanted to go home, and then the next minute they would be so excited in a game. They really clung to the staff and the love we had to offer. As always the kids LOVE piggy back rides, face paint, singing Father Abraham and Bananas of the World, screaming and yelling with joy, and filling the world with their smiles. We had to deal with plenty of sad and homesick kids but what a joy it was to see them smile and be overwhelmed with joy when you see what they live in and the lack of joy they have there. We love those kids; our flesh states I am tired and ready for them to go home, but our hearts scream for them because we know what we send them back to!
Transition to teen camp is always the hardest day because you dislike saying goodbye to the kids but love seeing the teens as well. This transition day is the hardest mostly because the staff are worn thin and out of strength, tired, sick, and in much need of a nap. In loving the kids we give ALL our strength and ability towards them and thus left with nothing (so it seems) for the teenagers. Teen camp was in a lot of ways a breath of fresh air. The teens had a deep deep desire to know the Lord more. This does not mean we did not have our challenges but in no way was it like what we face with the kids. The teens had troubles with smoking and had to be sent home, but in some weird way the Lord moved in that and their hearts were changed in a big way. A lot of people come expecting for people to get "saved" but there is so much more to missions than "saving." Discipleship is a HUGE part of what mission is all about. Yes, the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ is needed to disciple but it is important to know that the Lord will lead them to a point where they are ready or they are already saved and thus need direction and discipleship. Teen camp was an example of discipling; we used the same scripture for the teens but went in depth of what all the armor of God meant and how we can implement this Scripture. We also played lots of fun games: Human stratego, 4 square, wreck the castle, swimming, tug-O-war, etc.
The Lord was with definitely with Daniel and I the last week of camp. Daniel went on the float trip during teen camp instead of the original plan of myself going on the trip. This left us being separated which ended up being a great thing. I got to air drop a note and some candy to Daniel while he was on the float trip. Man the Lord was definitely withe me and he gave me peace, as well as gave Daniel peace to know that He was with us. The Lord was in all of camp even with the frustrations, and we took a STAND against the devil's schemes.
Ephesians 6:10-20
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take a stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, and against the powers of this dark world, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God so when the day of evil comes you will be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist and the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all of the saints. Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare fearlessly as I should.
Over and Out~
Daniel and Kathryn LaFon
Daniel and I were designated as the activities directors of camp this year. We came in with a great plan and plenty of supplies. We also came in with willing hearts and with the thought, "Blessed are the flexible, for they do not get bent out of shape." The kids camp I (Kathryn) was a counselor as well as working alongside my partner Daniel as activity director. Daniel did such a great job in implementing the games that were planned. As it said it is better to go in with a plan than not have one at all. We had a plan but we definitely remained flexible because things changed constantly. Camp in the Brooks Range is much different from camp in the Lower 48 (as alaskans call it). The village life is not easy living. The kids of the village deal with and experience much more than should experience and so therefore in a sense the kids hearts are tougher. Life in the village leads many to depression, alcohol, and drugs, or worse. The kids as they come to camp are overwhelmed by the sense of love that they receive from the staff. As we received kids this year it brightened our hearts; some of the kids ran up to Daniel and I screaming our names- oh wow what a way to stir our hearts! Kids camp had its amazing moments, as well as challenges. The campers and staff memorized the armor of God, Ephesians 6:10-20, which was a great way to encourage them. This verse also brought a lot of spiritual warfare as well; the kids kept complaining that they were bored or that they wanted to go home, and then the next minute they would be so excited in a game. They really clung to the staff and the love we had to offer. As always the kids LOVE piggy back rides, face paint, singing Father Abraham and Bananas of the World, screaming and yelling with joy, and filling the world with their smiles. We had to deal with plenty of sad and homesick kids but what a joy it was to see them smile and be overwhelmed with joy when you see what they live in and the lack of joy they have there. We love those kids; our flesh states I am tired and ready for them to go home, but our hearts scream for them because we know what we send them back to!
Transition to teen camp is always the hardest day because you dislike saying goodbye to the kids but love seeing the teens as well. This transition day is the hardest mostly because the staff are worn thin and out of strength, tired, sick, and in much need of a nap. In loving the kids we give ALL our strength and ability towards them and thus left with nothing (so it seems) for the teenagers. Teen camp was in a lot of ways a breath of fresh air. The teens had a deep deep desire to know the Lord more. This does not mean we did not have our challenges but in no way was it like what we face with the kids. The teens had troubles with smoking and had to be sent home, but in some weird way the Lord moved in that and their hearts were changed in a big way. A lot of people come expecting for people to get "saved" but there is so much more to missions than "saving." Discipleship is a HUGE part of what mission is all about. Yes, the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ is needed to disciple but it is important to know that the Lord will lead them to a point where they are ready or they are already saved and thus need direction and discipleship. Teen camp was an example of discipling; we used the same scripture for the teens but went in depth of what all the armor of God meant and how we can implement this Scripture. We also played lots of fun games: Human stratego, 4 square, wreck the castle, swimming, tug-O-war, etc.
The Lord was with definitely with Daniel and I the last week of camp. Daniel went on the float trip during teen camp instead of the original plan of myself going on the trip. This left us being separated which ended up being a great thing. I got to air drop a note and some candy to Daniel while he was on the float trip. Man the Lord was definitely withe me and he gave me peace, as well as gave Daniel peace to know that He was with us. The Lord was in all of camp even with the frustrations, and we took a STAND against the devil's schemes.
Ephesians 6:10-20
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take a stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, and against the powers of this dark world, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God so when the day of evil comes you will be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist and the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all of the saints. Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare fearlessly as I should.
Over and Out~
Daniel and Kathryn LaFon
Friday, July 1, 2011
Update: First Day of July
Hard to believe that it is already the month of July. We have huge plans made for camp and for planes, as well as other events. Camp planning has been a great opportunity for me (Kathryn) and my future teaching. I love planning and organizing so much, but I have to say I am ready to be at camp now. Camp planning has been stressful because of the easy-going nature of the ranch. Those of you who really know me know that when it comes to planning I am not necessarily easy-going. I have had to learn to flexible and open to having the plans not done on time. We are working towards that, and working towards making the Ranch and camp more organized and structured, but it definitely takes a lot of time. Growing is an on-going process! For me (Kathryn) time on the ranch can often get lonely with planning-which is another reason why I want to be at camp. I love people and love interacting and serving people so just being by myself most of the day can often be discouraging. I have had a few great conversations with older ladies who inquire about our lives, as well my dear good friend Laura who I met up here. I am hopeful for more great conversations.
News on Daniel: He is working on getting his 60+ hours for his mechanics,but as for his instructors license he has not gotten many hours as of yet. He has felt overwhelmed by not being able to get done what he came here to do. Daniel has a servant heart and he loves to be able to help out where he can, but honestly it feels like he is forgotten when it comes to flying. He has gotten flightseeing hours, but he really needs instructor hours. Pray that somehow Daniel is able to obtain the flight hours he needs and be able to be remembered by the leaders.
Honestly we have been discouraged the past couple of days, but we really need prayer in seeking the Lord about this in making sure our hearts and our attitudes are in the right place! We are still so excited for camp and excited to be here just having a hard time understanding the situations that have come across.. We appreciate the prayer support behind us and glad to have you guys to lean on!
Good things to report are: we went formation flying with a bunch of 150 airplanes last night. It was so fun and I took tons of pictures and videos of our flying. They did three different formations: a diamond, stacked, and staggered. It was funny because the boys got their fighter pilot voices on and were really getting into it. It is every boys dream to formation fly. It was beautiful outside and man was it so cool to see the breaks and the way that the planes moved together in formation. I do not know much about flying-I am learning- but man was it beautiful to see the guys working together and to see their love for flying. What a passion they have for what the Lord called them too! Although I have been discouraged the past few days last night really was an uplifter to my heart and soul. We went glacier hiking with a couple of our friends and Man was that beautiful! The glacier is so cold, and we tasted the water and it was really pure! We had fun walking and hiking along the glacier, but I always forget to wear my hiking boots when we go hiking so I had to really work to make sure I didn't slip since I just had my tennis shoes on. Time really goes by when you are doing fun things like that- we were gone maybe two hours of just hiking. After we hiked we went four-wheeling and man was that it exhilarating! I have never done that in my life, and was a little nervous but it was one of the best things I have ever done. Daniel and Brad had a great time going over big bumps, and going as fast as the four-wheeler would go. This weekend we have a big event at a guy's house that owns a HUGE house and property with: tennis courts, runway, basketball courts, ping-pong, pool tables, bowling alley, four hangers, and more. Needless to say, he loves sharing his home with us and with tons of people. This guy and his wife are such givers and have great hearts.
Here are a few pictures for your enjoyment! Keep us in your prayers-we really need it right now!
News on Daniel: He is working on getting his 60+ hours for his mechanics,but as for his instructors license he has not gotten many hours as of yet. He has felt overwhelmed by not being able to get done what he came here to do. Daniel has a servant heart and he loves to be able to help out where he can, but honestly it feels like he is forgotten when it comes to flying. He has gotten flightseeing hours, but he really needs instructor hours. Pray that somehow Daniel is able to obtain the flight hours he needs and be able to be remembered by the leaders.
Honestly we have been discouraged the past couple of days, but we really need prayer in seeking the Lord about this in making sure our hearts and our attitudes are in the right place! We are still so excited for camp and excited to be here just having a hard time understanding the situations that have come across.. We appreciate the prayer support behind us and glad to have you guys to lean on!
Good things to report are: we went formation flying with a bunch of 150 airplanes last night. It was so fun and I took tons of pictures and videos of our flying. They did three different formations: a diamond, stacked, and staggered. It was funny because the boys got their fighter pilot voices on and were really getting into it. It is every boys dream to formation fly. It was beautiful outside and man was it so cool to see the breaks and the way that the planes moved together in formation. I do not know much about flying-I am learning- but man was it beautiful to see the guys working together and to see their love for flying. What a passion they have for what the Lord called them too! Although I have been discouraged the past few days last night really was an uplifter to my heart and soul. We went glacier hiking with a couple of our friends and Man was that beautiful! The glacier is so cold, and we tasted the water and it was really pure! We had fun walking and hiking along the glacier, but I always forget to wear my hiking boots when we go hiking so I had to really work to make sure I didn't slip since I just had my tennis shoes on. Time really goes by when you are doing fun things like that- we were gone maybe two hours of just hiking. After we hiked we went four-wheeling and man was that it exhilarating! I have never done that in my life, and was a little nervous but it was one of the best things I have ever done. Daniel and Brad had a great time going over big bumps, and going as fast as the four-wheeler would go. This weekend we have a big event at a guy's house that owns a HUGE house and property with: tennis courts, runway, basketball courts, ping-pong, pool tables, bowling alley, four hangers, and more. Needless to say, he loves sharing his home with us and with tons of people. This guy and his wife are such givers and have great hearts.
Here are a few pictures for your enjoyment! Keep us in your prayers-we really need it right now!
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