tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6792779436311290492012-01-27T11:43:22.894-04:00I keep this blog to allow family, friends and the world a glimpse into our lives serving JESUS in Costa Rica. In everything, I seek to be real, honest and transparent. Thanks for stopping by!The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.comBlogger5771100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-50430395034627293732012-01-27T11:43:00.000-04:002012-01-27T11:43:22.904-04:00

It's what I've done this month...I've neglected to keep writing in the blog. There's no real reason for not writing, just that life keeps on moving and day by day I haven't found the time. There are always things to share, always things to say and always the desire to write...but for whatever reason I've been silent. I apologize and thank you for your grace... We've had a great month, really.

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-51609864653594841582012-01-09T13:44:00.000-04:002012-01-09T13:44:14.146-04:00

Read this month's prayer letter here! THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS!!!!

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-25781065488821383212011-12-17T11:03:00.001-04:002011-12-18T10:06:46.182-04:00

November and December...in pictures :) Ging-ging and Ethan Thanksgiving dinnerMeredith, Landon Brooke and Alejandra Father and son Corey and James Playa Carrillo My two mothers lunch at Playa Samara...after a day of shopping Playa Carrillo Joel and Ethan our family...Playa Tamarindo the only way I want to see a snake- if it's dead! Ethan killed this guy a few days after we moved into our new

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-78629502403735622552011-12-06T14:16:00.000-04:002011-12-06T14:16:33.785-04:00

Below you'll find our December Prayer Letter. We are thankful for those that support us through prayers and financially. “But as for me, I will come into Your house in the multitude of Your mercy; In the fear of You I will worship toward Your holy temple.” Psalm 5:7 Buena vista...a good view… Sometimes a change in perspective makes a world of difference. The Lord has demonstrated this in

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-67812127549638268942011-11-26T11:38:00.000-04:002011-11-26T11:38:58.198-04:00

Just wanted everyone to know that we are all alive and well. We have had several weeks without internet, therefore, no updates. Thank you for your grace! :) Last Monday (11/21) my mother and father-in-law arrived with a special surprise- my mom! We jumped right in finishing up moving the last of our things from our old house to our new house (we've moved! - more on that in another update),

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-85657731664352330532011-11-09T09:21:00.001-04:002011-11-09T09:22:06.872-04:00

"Brooke," my friend says, "they are all over." "Even in the high school?" I ask. "Yes, even in high school." I had seen them before, standing on the corner, as I was coming back from Tamarindo one night around 9:00 pm. I've heard about the other known corners. And I've seen the change in my neighbor over the past several months. Her face once held a smile. Now she looks stoic, as if she has no

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-68803421839964041892011-11-03T09:30:00.001-04:002011-11-03T09:34:29.874-04:00

The past two mornings I've gotten up around 5:30 am- that is pretty early for me. I've wanted to lay in bed for longer, but I felt compelling, overwhelming desire to get up and meet with Jesus. So that is what I did. The past two mornings I've been overjoyed and overwhelmed at the depths of God's love for me. He has filled me with His Spirit and I've felt new and fresh and alive. This morning,

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-23104136103832549852011-11-02T09:09:00.002-04:002011-11-02T09:09:23.889-04:00

I accidently posted Shaylene and Karlee's second video as their first... sooooo... HERE is their first video: ENJOY!

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-46236131238864927912011-11-02T08:49:00.002-04:002011-11-02T08:51:06.289-04:00

Since it is Wednesday already, I'll leave off the '...on Monday' part of the title of this post :) We've had super sketchy internet this week and I have not been able to get a connection strong enough to post. My heart is so full this morning as I reflect on God's goodness. The joy of the Lord really is my strength! #'s 2152 - 2156 - Dulce Maria sharing with me her happiness with how Tatiana

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-54132609781526741292011-11-01T22:49:00.001-04:002011-11-01T22:49:45.497-04:00

On October 14th we welcomed Karlee "eScarlet" and Shaylene "Charlene" to Villarreal. They are the new PFK interns serving with us for the next 6 months. On of their many duties is to post weekly videos of life, ministry, and just about anything else :) This is their first video: Stay tuned for more videos soon!

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-70226054224662330202011-10-30T16:53:00.000-04:002011-10-30T16:53:52.076-04:00

Below you'll find the test of our November prayer letter. Be Blessed! But you will not leave in haste or go in flight; for the LORD will go before, you; yes, the God of Israel will be your rear guard.” Isaiah 52:12 This month, we give thanks to God for His plans, provision, and protection. The Lord God has a plan for our lives: Two years ago we left the bustling capital city of San Jose

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-12388711044588642052011-10-17T16:44:00.001-04:002011-10-17T16:45:24.463-04:00

I reflect on God's great gifts, His blessings poured out in endless fashion. Thank You Jesus, for the ultimate gift of eternal life. #'s 2030 - 2041 - talking with Rebecca - Ezekiel's sweet smile - Audrey and Eden walking around and around the pool - Elijah surfing - at 2 years old! - learning more about Alejandra and Lucho - discovering the gifts and talents people have- Alejandra and Lucho -

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-16820054317034512892011-10-12T18:34:00.001-04:002011-10-12T18:35:53.118-04:00

Still giving thanks...I haven't stopped. Just been a little tied up lately. Please read below for more information...and don't forget to scroll all the way to the bottom for this weeks list of a thousands gifts that keep on giving... October 2011 Prayer Letter A new season… At the writing of this letter, we’ve only just completed one full week of October; however the events of the past week

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-1419301517200469932011-09-26T22:30:00.000-04:002011-09-26T22:30:49.855-04:00

Day after day, week after week, grace blessing after grace blessing...Lord Your love amazes me. You are a Wonderful, Merciful Savior. Indescribable. Worthy. The Lamb of God, born as a baby, in a lowly, humble cave...nestled in with the animals. You'll come back riding a white horse, bringing with you justice and healing long awaited justice for your creation, your world. Today I pause to give

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-71669859878325549942011-09-22T09:14:00.001-04:002011-09-22T10:25:17.796-04:00

Last night we took the PFK kids to the 'plaza' or community soccer field a few blocks from the church to play beisbol after our lesson time. A majority of the kids were stoked to be going (there is always a few who don't want to play anything...???) and so even though we only had about 30 minutes, we walked quickly up and got organized quickly. We were able to play two innings with the teams

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-9660740004684392882011-09-21T09:40:00.002-04:002011-09-21T09:54:15.299-04:00

Countries throughout Latin America celebrate children each year with on their own day, Day of the Child. Here in Costa Rica, the day is a national holiday and the kids, of course, have school off! :) In Costa Rica, the day is celebrated on September 9th each year. This year, we chose to celebrate on September 8th so we could incorporate the celebration into our weekly Bible Club. We were

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-1140798232445899672011-09-19T11:28:00.000-04:002011-09-19T11:28:28.862-04:00

10 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, My soul shall be joyful in my God; For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, As a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. 11 For as the earth brings forth its bud, As the garden causes the things that are sown in it to spring

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-50191017992682429472011-09-18T11:06:00.000-04:002011-09-18T11:06:30.534-04:00

Yesterday, we had wanted to go to San Jose to visit friends. We wanted to be a part of a very special lady's quincinera (15th birthday party). However, car issues and finances forced us to stay home this weekend. It seems however, looking back, the Lord had planned for us to be here all along. Thursday afternoon, the power went out in our house. Nothing terribly unusual about this since this

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-14398213458545307442011-09-16T21:51:00.002-04:002011-09-16T22:36:03.800-04:00

Yesterday was Día de Independencia (Independence Day) here in Costa Rica. The day starts off with the school-aged children congregating at the school at about 7:30 am for a civic presentation detailing the history of Costa Rica's independence including traditional dances, singing of the national anthem and hymn, and other things as well. At about 9:30 or so, the crowd begins to move towards the

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-2702634139981833332011-09-14T22:06:00.000-04:002011-09-14T22:06:53.339-04:00

Tonight was the parade of the faroles (lanterns). It was so much fun to see the whole village out for this annual event. One thing we love about this area is the sense of community. Literally, everyone was there to celebrate the independence of this country, whether from Costa Rica or not. Since this area is highly reliant on tourism, many immigrants live here. I was surprised at the various

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-91983363923266884122011-09-14T10:09:00.000-04:002011-09-14T10:09:47.510-04:00

Tomorrow is Independence Day here in Costa Rica. You can read there story here. After independence was declared, a rider came through all of the provinces, going house to house, spreading the news. In that time, obviously, there was no electricity. Therefore, the rider carried a lantern in order to light the way. Thus, the tradition began every year for the celebration of the country's

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-75116411121778108142011-09-13T13:18:00.001-04:002011-09-13T13:23:54.171-04:00

What is repentance? According to Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words: repentance: metanoeo (Greek), "to perceive afterwards" (meta, "after," implying "change," noeo, "to perceive;" nous, "the mind, the seat of moral reflection"), therefore: "to change one's mind or purpose," The other night at church, a friend came up to me during the service (I was inside the kitchen

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-42851200698770251652011-09-12T09:06:00.002-04:002011-09-12T09:08:15.124-04:00

I awoke this morning, refreshed and rested, after a good night's sleep. The air was cool and crisp this morning, sun shining, birds singing - welcoming the day. Early greetings from our neighbors. Looking out at the green grass- such a gift, for in a few months when the rain stops it will all be gone... Great is Your faithfulness, O God. Indescribable, Uncontainable O God! You placed the stars

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-56630744994644816052011-09-10T11:57:00.000-04:002011-09-10T11:57:29.446-04:00

Isaiah 58:10-12 What does it mean to be empty? We, in the North American culture do not like things to be empty. We like our bulk stores, our full cabinets, our stocked refrigerators, bank acounts with multiple digits in the total line... We have a hard time with empty. Do we really know what it means to be empty, I wonder? Have we ever felt the pressure of spending our last cent on a few

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-33283523564598811302011-09-08T11:10:00.000-04:002011-09-08T11:10:13.144-04:00

Here is a message from Pastor Mike and Pam Rozell, founders of Potters Field Ministries and Potters Field Kids, which is the heart of our ministry here in Costa Rica. Potter's Field Kids Promo from Potter's Field Ministries on Vimeo. When Pastor Mike mentions the Costa Rica ministry, you'll see a picture of Emerson, who is in PFK with us. Isa 58:10-12

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-19471560583057250102011-09-07T11:02:00.002-04:002011-09-07T11:04:19.400-04:00

I love this song. I always have. But this week, it brings new meaning to the trials of life for me. When I sat a listened to the music and the lyrics this morning, I thought about what it means to 'trade my sorrows, my shame, my sickness, my pain...FOR the JOY of the Lord...' as the song says, that sets a new song in my heart, taht sets my heart dancing...and to it all we say YES LORD and

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-9567887299350128142011-08-30T12:55:00.002-04:002011-08-30T12:56:33.415-04:00

"And God said, 'Let there be light" and there was light." Genesis 1:3 From nothing, God created everything. What He said, simply became. "the Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being." Genesis 2:7 What are we anyway, but dust? What is this life, if not spent living as a breath of life? This

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-14889779788484736722011-08-22T22:56:00.001-04:002011-08-22T22:56:56.286-04:00

From my heart this morning... (from John 1) "You, Jesus, were in perfect harmony with Your Father. You chose to leave perfection and take himan form and live in a fallen world- that Your glory could be seen- the One and Only- the One who came from the Father - full of grace and truth. You were who John the baptist preached about. Moses gave us the law. You gave us grace and truth. No one has

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-88654341927295156962011-08-21T12:52:00.001-04:002011-08-21T12:57:43.966-04:00

Last night we started a new family tradition of making our own pizzas. Each of us got our own 'slate' or crust and we put our own toppings on. It was super fun and they tasted delicious!! In other family news, a couple of weeks ago, Calvary Chapel had a Culture Night with a visiting mission team. These nights are always so fun and the fellowship between church members is so encouraging.

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-69445357455246284992011-08-20T13:48:00.001-04:002011-08-20T14:04:04.970-04:00

Monday was Mother's Day here in Costa Rica. Last Saturday, Calvary Chapel hosted a Mother's Day tea. There were many ways in which the Lord spoke to me that day, but one way was during the teaching. Rebecca taught on hearing the voice of God. One thing stood out to me - sometimes we see what appear to be closed doors in our lives...that are really wide open. Take the example of Sarah, who at

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-54787356170590754042011-08-15T16:27:00.000-04:002011-08-15T16:27:28.109-04:00

Today is Mother's Day in this land we now call home. Saturday, we had a Mother's Day Tea for the ladies of the church. It was a wonderful morning spent with many ladies form the church as well as several 'invitadas,' or ladies from the community, several who did not know the Lord. All of the ladies participated and enjoyed themselves. It was a special time shared by all. Last night at church,

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-76126586211556781562011-08-09T10:03:00.000-04:002011-08-09T10:03:29.978-04:00

Today I sit and am so thankful for the work of the Lord in my life. I am so thankful for the community of faith- around the world. Thank You Jesus, for your shed blood. Thank You, Fatherm for sending Your Son. #'s 1451 - 1465 - having real heart-toheart with Gabriela, Cindy, and Dayana- Thank You Jesus for this breakthrough - the tropical sounds I've grown so used to hearing- howler monkeys,

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-33864147215675101702011-08-07T09:56:00.000-04:002011-08-07T09:56:11.351-04:00

Often when we are asked the question, "What do you miss most from the United States?" And always my respons is, "FAMILY." Usually the person responds with, "well, of course. but...what else?" And so I pause to ponder... Four years ago I could quickly list off several restaurants or food items that we just didn't have or couldn't find here. Three years ago, I probably still would have

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-2244901251739561492011-08-01T12:14:00.000-04:002011-08-01T12:14:00.721-04:00

We've settled back into the laid back life that we've grown to love. The suitcases are pur away, new clothes put away, things back in their places...I sat down to reflect this morning on all that God has done in the past month- His great goodness...and read through almost 20 pages of testimony to the great things He has done! I did not blog while we were in the States. It was a decision to rest

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-72789046558836347332011-07-29T23:51:00.000-04:002011-07-29T23:51:52.286-04:00

Hello again...seems like a long time since I was here...but sometimes life demands that you put away the computer and just live and enjoy and see and smell and listen...and all of those things and more I've been doing while we were in the US on furlough. It was a sweet, refreshing time. We are back in Costa Rica now, settling back into this slow-paced life we've grown to love. I'll be posting

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-2924735359741137672011-06-27T13:37:00.001-04:002011-06-27T13:38:44.271-04:00

Well, time has flown by and we leave for the US in two days!!! Normally I am a planner and I start about thee weeks before we leave for the US with my packing lists, gift lists, and preparation. However, this year, life is a little more busy than usual...so I started EVERYTHING last week. YIKES! Today, I have last minute things to do and...uhh...oh yeah- PACKING! Hahaha... no biggie there. So,

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-44084406966949176982011-06-27T13:17:00.000-04:002011-06-27T13:17:16.483-04:00

Below you'll find the test to our July Pryer letter. If you'd like to receive these updates through email please leave a comment and your email address and we'll add you to the list! “Be agreeable, be sympathetic, be loving, be compassionate, be humble. That goes for all of you, no exceptions.” 1 Peter 3:8 The Message Potter’s Field Kids (Las Manos del Alfarero) June has been an encouraging

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-4180938215488311662011-06-21T11:23:00.002-04:002011-06-21T11:29:05.795-04:00

Due to a power outage in our neighborhood yesterday, I couldn't post... However today I am in awe of our heavenly Father, His goodness, His grace, His mercy, His deep and wide love for me. When I started this journey about six months ago, I wondered about how long it might take to record 1000 gifts...1000 seems like such a big number. Yet, when I ponder the scriptures that talk about the number

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-91028110505810897982011-06-19T10:11:00.000-04:002011-06-19T10:11:37.014-04:00

To my hubby... ...Wo's a great Daddy to our three blessings... ...as well as acting father to so many other precious blessings... I love you! To my Dad... To my little brother... And to my Daddy-in-love... And to so many others...Happy Father's day!

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-76979506087021926372011-06-14T22:49:00.001-04:002011-06-14T22:50:12.891-04:00

Every once in awhile a kid just needs to be a kid... Partnering with Potter's Field Kids allows us the opportunity to share the gospel, make disciples, teach kids English, feed hungry kids, tutor them...and, sometimes- just let them be kids :) A fantastic time was had tonight by all...in a tiny little town...in a sweet little church...on a muddy dirt road...as the rain fell down..

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-79579661329070532132011-06-14T11:53:00.001-04:002011-06-14T12:00:59.820-04:00

Sunday, we celebrated 36 years of life of Matt. We started the day as we always do on a birthday in our family, waking up the birthday boy and singing "This is the day...!" and also of course, "Happy Birthday!" Then the kids gave him the cards they gave him and some chocolate and I gave him his present that I successfully kept a secret, thanks to the help of Natalie, Justine and Michaela! We

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-15298654946391990012011-06-14T10:32:00.001-04:002011-06-14T10:33:08.292-04:00

Being broken...why does getting there have to be such a mess? If you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding and if you look for it as if for silver and search for it as if for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from His mouth come knowledge and understanding." Proverbs 2:3-6 This week has been a

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-36642132995334442142011-06-06T15:48:00.002-04:002011-06-06T15:54:17.252-04:00

As I sit and listen to the rain, I am deeply thankful for the life God has planned for me. I am deeply thankful for the little I have to complain about. I am deeply thankful for the family I have. I am deeply thankful for the friends he has brought into my life. I am deeply thankful for HIM. May you today bask in His goodness and stop for a moment and give thanks to Him. #'s 781 - 795 -

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-48865666247878036252011-06-05T17:16:00.001-04:002011-06-05T17:30:59.766-04:00

"Babbling Brooke"...that's what he used to call me... I used to be in band in junior high and high school. I remember in 6th grade I tried out for the flute and the clarinet. My band teacher told me he needed me in the drum section, as it was painfully obvious I was tone deaf...  :)  so, began my drumming career. I played the snare drum, and actually really enjoyed it. I liked playing the

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-17587347958603102752011-05-31T23:34:00.000-04:002011-05-31T23:34:38.401-04:00

Potter’s Field Kids (Las Manos del Alfarero) Please pray this month for the children of Potter’s Field Kids Costa Rica. Please pray for their basic needs to be met. Please pray for those living in homes where abuse, both verbal and physical, is an everyday reality. Please pray for those who go hungry. Please pray for those who struggle to read and write well. Please pray for those who are

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-78846565988940174812011-05-30T11:42:00.000-04:002011-05-30T11:42:42.030-04:00

For Your name's sake, O LORD, Pardon my iniquity, for it [is] great. Psalm 25:11 This week the Lord taught me a gerat lesson in the relationship He and I have. His love for me is not dependant on my perfection. I am saved, not by my works, not by the great things I have done, not by just being me; I am saved by GRACE, grace poured out on me daily, heaping, cleansing grace. In my great iniquity,

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-91363443994220636602011-05-29T11:05:00.000-04:002011-05-29T11:05:23.461-04:00

brightly colored visitor "My what a beautiful home you have!" On the move S-T-R-E-T-C-H!!!! Color-coordinated pica-caballo ummm...yeah...one word...just...EEEwwwwww! wild horsey girl OUCH!!! long hair hazard Izzy and Daddy Pirate's Bay rainbow God's Promise flip flops Mother's Day Learning to stand una colita....

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-13831186381530262362011-05-27T00:01:00.001-04:002011-05-27T00:09:40.491-04:00

I've started studying the women of the Bible again in my personal devotions. About two years ago, I did this same study, but felt it was time to pick it up again. I'm being so blessed by the faithful women of the Bible and seeing God's hand in the lives of them all. It amazes me the way God takes the good and the bad and makes both into something beautiful (the ugly-beautiful, as Ann calls it). I

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-56118842594242722922011-05-25T21:18:00.000-04:002011-05-25T21:18:09.470-04:00

For the past three months, we've been teaching the PFK kids about the importance of building a strong foundation for their lives. We've been teaching about the importance of a Biblical foundation and discovering together what that means. We've learned what a biblical worldview is; looked at the big picture of life; and talked about what an eyewitness is- and learned who our witness is and what He

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-60259893215309844222011-05-24T12:08:00.000-04:002011-05-24T12:08:33.031-04:00

Following this post, Am I Crazy to homeschool?, I thought, for moment today, the answer might be YES!!! as Isabelle came to me complaining that Audrey would not stop eating the bookmark! These are the moments to remember and laugh at, right? :) Have a blessed day today!

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-13077480750896549792011-05-24T09:14:00.000-04:002011-05-24T09:14:50.533-04:00

Hear, O Lord, have mercy and be gracious to me! O Lord, be my helper!      You have turned my mourning into dancing for me; You have put off my sackcloth and girded me with gladness,      To the end that my tongue and my heart and everything glorious within me may sing praise to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever.  Psalm 30:10-12 (Amplified Bible) Every day,

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-1755286451540039682011-05-22T11:08:00.000-04:002011-05-22T11:08:08.414-04:00

Not too long ago, Potter's field Ministries sent their photographer down to snap some pictures of PFK Costa Rica kids and activities. While here, Dawn Marie took the time to take pictures of Pastor Phil and his family as well as the other leaders of the church and their families. This was a huge blessing to us as we have not had prfessional photos taken in, well, a long time...So, we took off to

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-50990609048350109802011-05-22T10:09:00.000-04:002011-05-22T10:09:57.166-04:00

For some time now, the obvious has been looming over me...my precious baby boy is growing up. He is no longer in that sweet Toy Story stage (although his Buzz and Woody are never really very far from his bed even still...which brings a great sense of delight and joy to this momma's heart) and has entered what I must only assume is the pre-adolescent years. He is changing, sometimes as quickly as

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-63327364311178437892011-05-22T09:32:00.000-04:002011-05-22T09:32:16.543-04:00

Check out this post from Ann, whom I've grown to love and respect for her honest and transparent writing here as well as her daily blog posts. I might very well be crazy, but Ann's post puts my craziness into much needed perspective today.

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-90107219346731214172011-05-21T18:02:00.000-04:002011-05-21T18:02:01.189-04:00

I've got so much to share that has happened over the past several weeks so, if I can use my time wisely here, I'll be posting several picture posts today, because I love to share pics of our life happenings... The next few pictures are of the wide array of creatures we see often around our home; some strange, some lovely, and some just, well, interesting. Turquoise-browned Motmot Two of

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-38065900201075034312011-05-16T09:43:00.000-04:002011-05-16T09:43:27.751-04:00

My heart is full this morning. Full of the joy that only comes from my Savior. Knowing that His mercies are new every morning. Knowing his love is not dependant upon mine for Him. Knowing that no matter how much I love, His is so much more. Knowing He has a plan and it is perfect and mine is not. Knowing all this, trusting it, believing it, and becoming free of all the worry, guilt, stress...

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-50177555147153914902011-05-09T11:12:00.000-04:002011-05-09T11:12:37.366-04:00

We started the day with our family tradition of singing "This is day!" to the birthday boy...then we presented him with a few gifts...I had ordered him the next discs of Jonathan Park and our church brought them down in March. They also brought down a super cool Star Wars Lego book that he loved! Then we had picked up a few special treats that we don't get here very often...like Dr. Pepper, a

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-68553073012002631902011-05-09T10:42:00.000-04:002011-05-09T10:42:16.495-04:00

I have so much to be thankful for. In a world where everyone is out for himself, hearts are hard and necks are stiff, I pause in this quiet little space to reflect on the great goodness of our God. #601-621 -doughnuts from the city -helping neighbors -neighbors who help without being asked -sleepy girls -fans -Jesus' example of baptism -God's gift of the Holy Spirit -God's declaration in the

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-65607862695370182011-05-09T06:00:00.002-04:002011-05-09T10:40:17.506-04:00

May 9, 2000: Eleven years ago - I remember it so well...the anticipation, the fear, the excitement, the understanding that my whole world was about to change... Ethan, your are my first born, my only son, my oldest child. In so many ways, you are like me; yet in so many ways you are so much like your father. Every day is an adventure with you, my son. You bring such joy into my life. You have

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-21724988303780966272011-05-08T12:31:00.000-04:002011-05-08T12:31:27.789-04:00

Today, on Mother's Day, I reflect on all of the amazing women the Lord has placed in my life who've blessed me in so many ways. Last year, we were 'home' on Mother's Day and celebrated both Ethan's birthday as well as Mother's Day with both of our moms. We have great memories of many years together. This year, it is difficult to be away today. I am so very thankful for both my mom and my

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-7259353858662437062011-05-01T11:12:00.000-04:002011-05-01T11:12:25.000-04:00

Below you'll find the text to our May Prayer letter. Please join us in praying this month. "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.” Revelation 4:8 Potter’s Field Kids (Las Manos del Alfarero) This past month  has been full and fruitful.  We celebrated in the weekly Bible Club early in the month as twenty-two faithful members completed Book One  and had

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-78823416184946141292011-04-25T10:13:00.000-04:002011-04-25T10:13:39.864-04:00

I pray your Easter Sunday was blessed! We were so blessed yesterday and are in awe at God's provision thorughout our day. We enjoyed a beautiful sunrise service yesterday morning on Tamarindo Beach and left around 8 am for Nicaragua. (We continue to have to leave the country every three months for to renew our tourist visas, and this week our visas expire. We had planned to leave Sunday morning

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-58865550538656130372011-04-13T22:46:00.000-04:002011-04-13T22:46:34.908-04:00

Costa Rica has two main seasons...rainy (which is hot) and dry (which is even hotter). Dry season lasts from about mid-November through mid-May, generally. Rainy season lasts through the months of May through November. Last year, it stopped raining early and things got really dry really fast. Just last week, we received the first rain of the year. It was only abut a 20-minute shower, but it was

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-88860752079187438632011-04-11T12:01:00.000-04:002011-04-11T12:01:36.607-04:00

Today, I am basking in the loyalty, love, and generosity of our Great and Righteous God. Today's blessings: #'s 473 - 489 - gallo pinto quesadillas - hammock swings and little handmade tables (a gift for me from hubby/son) -acts of love - my special sopt to meet with You - RAIN!!!!!!!!!!!! in the beginning of April - seeing your beautiful Creation from a different view - Audrey eating mangos,

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-43617299972679009822011-04-08T13:01:00.000-04:002011-04-08T13:01:33.383-04:00

We've been establishing our foundation the past month in Bible Club studying how we all have one our foundation in one man- Jesus, one perspective- that based in the Bible, and we all have one beginning- the same one in fact. All of this to lead into a study of Genesis chapters 1-11. We have worked to format the weekly Bible Club around something simliar to an AWANA program in that children are

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-51673350579867561452011-04-07T00:30:00.000-04:002011-04-07T00:30:10.874-04:00

I was just thinking tonight how completely blessed I am. I am so quick to complain and gripe, but truly I have no reason nor need to complain- I am BLESSED! - The Lord has allowed for me and my family to live in a beautiful country, serve amazing people, and share His abundant life with other awesome believers here... -all my life I desired to be able to travel- and the Lord has answered that

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-72364494147565471482011-04-05T10:49:00.000-04:002011-04-05T10:49:51.276-04:00

Still counting... #443-458 - that we are living in the age of God's grace -for Your great unfailing love, O Lord - for the amazing and completely unexpected ways you answer prayer and provide for our needs - for former youth ministry students obediently responding to Your call to give...and to our family- Lord you are amazing! -for the way exercise rejuvenates the body -mangos- so plentiful we

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-51006876944661038982011-04-02T23:48:00.000-04:002011-04-02T23:48:01.193-04:00

The following is the text of our April prayer letter.  Join us this month in giving thanks to God, who is good and whose love endures forever! Potter’s Field Kids (Las Manos del Alfarero) “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; His love endures forever!” We are to give thanks to the Lord, for He is good and His love does endure forever! Amen? Amen! This month we give thanks for the many,

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-6863627157497431642011-04-01T11:19:00.000-04:002011-04-01T11:19:03.048-04:00

Well, life has been busy lately...and it is just now winding down enough to where I can sit and post about it. And breathe....ahhhhh...  :) So, a couple of weeks ago, actually the 19th, our family, along with Sarah and Michaela, were gifted with anafternoon out together. We were not told exactly what we were doing, nor where we were going, just that we should wear pants and be at the community

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-19011255945525739372011-03-25T09:58:00.000-04:002011-03-25T09:58:14.280-04:00

This  is the day that the Lord has made! Day 5 by Sandy Our devotions this morning were precious- each person here is precious- this experience has been precious. I wish all of  this for all of you- try a mission trip. This morning we prepared for field day for the children of Villarreal. It turned out to be a huge success- sack races, ping-pnog ball spoon races, etc. Plus great refreshments.

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-36073106446441349022011-03-24T09:50:00.000-04:002011-03-24T09:50:38.109-04:00

Another long, productive day. God is so good! Here is Sandy's perspective... Day 4: We started the day right, once more, with devotions. It makes a difference in the day- we recommend it! Rather than doing a morning workout at the "Y", we chose to do a home workout. Some painted Matt and brooke's bedroom and bathroom. Others crawled around on their hands and knees, scrubbing the paint

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-9533690984665177602011-03-23T09:30:00.000-04:002011-03-23T09:30:16.188-04:00

Yesterday was a long, but very productive day...I'll let Sandy tell the story: Day 3 This morning 10 friends in Christ celebrated our thankfulness for God and each other through another wonderful devotional time. We worked like dogs- no "sit down" time today, except for devotional and meal time. Today, Tom, Travis and Matt built a huge storage area along an entire wall in the Audrey and

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-72559816407300800192011-03-22T10:16:00.000-04:002011-03-22T10:16:25.424-04:00

Well, here we are together again, on Tuesday this week. :)  (big smile) We have friends from our home church with us this week- a great group of 8, including our pastor, and we are having a fantastic time...they are doing two major projects in our home during the mornings and helping us with PFK in the afternoons...it has been great having them here. The entire living room is filled with the

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-29213015220869529262011-03-21T23:55:00.001-04:002011-03-21T23:55:55.568-04:00

"This is the day...This is the day! That the Lord has made, that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. And be glad in it..." As those of you know who read this blog regularly, it is our tradition to sing this on a member of our family's birthday. However, it will forever have new meaning for our family now as it has become something we sing with the team each day.

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-39765373816833945332011-03-20T23:26:00.001-04:002011-03-25T10:00:46.550-04:00

Well, we've shared one full day with FEPC and already we are worn out :) but praising the Lord for His good gifts!!! Sandy is guest blogging for the team to give her perspective on each day's events. Here is her perspective from today... DAY 1 Today we celebrated the Lord's Sabbath with communion on the beach in the morning and an inspirational worship service tonight- in Spanish, but Brooke

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-17282048955566624822011-03-18T15:49:00.000-04:002011-03-18T15:49:02.723-04:00

I wanted to post some pictures of Isabelle's birthday. Despite the tsunami warning, we spent the morning at Langosta beach. Everything was calm and there was no danger. It was a beautiful day and we really enjoyed our time. We were home before the tsunami warning and everything was fine that day. 9 years old ( 3-11-11) What a pretty girl... The clouds were beautiful that day. We spent

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-41141496920355311262011-03-18T10:34:00.000-04:002011-03-18T10:34:56.163-04:00

Yesterday we celebrated another year of my life...as a friend told me the Costa Rican ladies say "ti-cinco"  (..."ty-5" as in you aren't counting the beginning of the number and holding on the '5')... Actually, I turned 33...and it was a wonderful day. After the traditional singing of "This is the day!" and Happy Birthday, we went to breakfast at my favorite restaurant in Tamarindo (I say

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-91649671965280187082011-03-14T10:57:00.000-04:002011-03-14T10:57:54.069-04:00

Today, as I prayed through Ephesians 6:10-18, meditating on God's provision for me and what good gifts He gives us for this battle we face, unseen, but surely felt, I reflect on the battles I've faced and through HIS strength have conquered. What a blessing thoes battles are, Lord. Truly, I can say that now. As I sit listening to Matt teach the children about conflict, as He teaches them Your

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-61480944416636565522011-03-10T23:09:00.001-04:002011-03-11T08:42:03.851-04:00

Well, somehow, nine years have passed since that early March morning when I awoke with the all-knowing feeling that "THIS WAS IT!" and off to the hospital we went at 2:30 am...and four hours later, this tiny little 6 lbs. 8 oz. bundle was born at 6:45 am...three weeks early, and ready to face the world. So tiny, I remembering asking the Lord how I was suppose to raise this tiny little girl- all

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-7762666384291654612011-03-08T12:57:00.000-04:002011-03-08T12:57:29.549-04:00

I really need to just change the title of this to suit my life, since I never seem to be able to post on Mondays. They are my busiest day of the week and it just never seems to happen... But, there is always tomorrow, right? :) Still counting God's goodness and His abundant gifts... #'s 373 - 391 - smoothies on the beach - Elvita praying for the second week in a row - clean sheets - clean

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-37400925868455384832011-03-03T16:14:00.000-04:002011-03-03T16:14:20.934-04:00

Below is the test of the email we sent out today along with our March 2011 prayer letter. Hello dear friends and family, We write to you this month full of joy and bring you greetings from HOT Guanacaste! We are entering the hottest, dryest part of the year here and temperatures have been in the 90's -- most days the high 90's! The vast array of colors we usually see has settled into a mix of

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-43921688961119768792011-03-02T23:04:00.000-04:002011-03-02T23:04:10.442-04:00

So...time flies on...with our new schedule the weeks seem to go by quickly. We as a family are still working out the kinks of this new schedule and how tings work for us, but we move forward trusting in God to lead us and guide us. Today was kind of a rough day. All three kids were tired and school was the last thing on their minds. Usually Ethan gets started early and is done quickly and

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-41641428766612520092011-03-01T10:27:00.000-04:002011-03-01T10:27:34.554-04:00

posted on Tuesday :) due to lack of internet yesterdsay... As I continue counting the great gifts God continues to bless me with, the many, innumerable ways in which He lavishes His love on me, I feel it deep...the change happening. I feel my heart changing in the deep dark places. I feel that 'old man' finally dying away. I begin to understand how freeing this new life in Christ really is. I

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-88355949369046794132011-02-26T22:28:00.001-04:002011-02-27T12:04:25.128-04:00

We've started back up with Potter's Field Kids after summer vacation. School has started and after several changes in enrollment, schol schedules and therefore, our schedule, we finally feel like we have things figured out. We have 31 students so far and have room for two more, and we are trusting that the Lord knows who those two are. I was sick all last week with a stomach bug, then almost

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-47628262116694181042011-02-21T22:30:00.000-04:002011-02-21T22:30:16.513-04:00

I'm finding it harder to find time to blog these days. I have found that during my blogging years, times like these come...where it is harder and harder to find time to sit down uninterrupted to write. And other times come where I have ample time. In all times, I thank you for your grace and continued reading. I missed last week's Multitudes on Monday, but I have not stopped counting.

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-90868743371946133472011-02-13T16:02:00.000-04:002011-02-13T16:02:12.386-04:00

Walking the hills of Villarreal Finca Jerusalén Los guilas un día en la playa - Tamarindo Beach Henry doing handstands Cindy and Isa Mateo y Brooke y los guilas (Matt and brooke and the kiddos) Noelia, José and Henry Hector, Leibi, and Cindy Please pray for this special family...Noelia, Henry and Jose returned to Nicaragua and most likely will not be returning to Costa

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-18376713770574865752011-02-13T15:37:00.000-04:002011-02-13T15:37:18.818-04:00

Happy Birthday Mimi!!! Tamarindo sunset a week or so ago... We love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-1359852117107416812011-02-07T11:01:00.002-04:002011-02-07T11:01:59.844-04:00

Old school DC Talk The truth remains...He is always there...despite the stumble, despite the fall. His love will never change. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kg6HedZ4xGs

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-3644957924192748442011-02-07T10:48:00.000-04:002011-02-07T10:48:48.292-04:00

My heart overflows today as I ponder God's infinite grace. The Lord really spoke to me this week on so many levels and yet all about the same thing- His un-ending grace and love for me...and my desperate need for it. As the Lord ushers in His joy in my life and continues to shower me with His grace, there are times when I see small beginnings of change. I feel it in deep inside. I hear it as it

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-13181773159262421662011-02-03T09:18:00.000-04:002011-02-03T09:18:02.794-04:00

Below you'll find our February Prayer letter. Cast your burden on the Lord and he shall sustain you.” Psalm 55:22 Potter’s Field Kids (Las Manos del Alfarero) Praise God with us for His provision and for Potter’s Field Ministries, who work to find and provide resources for the ongoing ministries around the world! We are thrilled to announce that PFM has sent us two interns to serve in the

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-55359280058082843662011-01-31T22:16:00.000-04:002011-01-31T22:16:24.853-04:00

Last week, I missed sharing my endless gift list...We were traveling all day and I wasn't able to post...please forgive me. Today, I will share from the multidudes of gifts I am counting...one by one...gaining grace with every one, learning to share grace as I go, feeling myself soften, as clay in the Potter's hands. #180 baptisms- young and the young-at-heart choosing to follow Jesus and

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-29114196739802241682011-01-29T14:14:00.000-04:002011-01-29T14:14:10.119-04:00

We were inNicaragua all week for our visa renewal trip. We were without internet several days and now there is so much I want to share I don't know where to start. We got back late yesterday afternoon and I immediately unpacked, started the laundry, checked the beds for critters, and got a big glass of water to drink. It was a long trip yesterday, but good and the Lord was with us. We had a

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-61175352514549863832011-01-23T23:25:00.002-04:002011-01-23T23:25:07.715-04:00

Please pray for our family tomorrow as we travel to Nicaragua. Hopefully I will be able to update once we are there.

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-82903717866056626742011-01-18T09:56:00.001-04:002011-01-19T23:21:37.946-04:00

From my devotional time this morning:  “Clearly you are an epistle of Christ . . . written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart” (2 Cor. 3:3 NKJV)"Your very lives are a letter that anyone can read by just looking at you. Christ himself wrote it—not with ink, but with God's living Spirit; not chiseled into stone,

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-74827895443207389042011-01-17T11:51:00.000-04:002011-01-17T11:51:18.677-04:00

Today, as I open up my email I read these words from Our Daily Bread devotional... Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. —Psalm 119:105 I’ve always thought that I could get through just about anything if the Lord would tell me what the outcome would be. I believe that “all things work together for good” in the end (Rom. 8:28), but I’d do a lot better in dark times if I knew

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-23730427002953872872011-01-14T10:33:00.000-04:002011-01-14T10:33:26.978-04:00

This is from this morning's devotional from the Blue Letter Bible  Mighty to save. Isaiah 63:1"By the words "to save" we understand the whole of the great work of salvation, from the first holy desire onward to complete sanctification. The words are multum in parro: indeed, here is all mercy in one word. Christ is not only "mighty to save" those who repent, but He is able to make men repent. He

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-58597414057787138292011-01-12T00:37:00.001-04:002011-01-13T15:10:19.183-04:00

Today was one of those funny date days- 1/11/11...we tend to make a note of these days in our family. Maybe you do this, too? :) No special signifigance, just a cool little fact to share about today :) This post also marks my 500th post since the beginning of this blog in July 2007! WOHOO! We've come a long way, Baby! I've looked back over different posts from time to time and I contune to be

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-40342178398950280242011-01-10T11:04:00.000-04:002011-01-10T11:04:05.531-04:00

Todays gifts... #'s 41 - 53 41. sleepy days 42. a backyard full of kids 43. kickball 44. housefull of kids, sweaty after a game of backyard kickball 45. joyful reunion between friends (Eden, Ezekiel, Audrey, Isa, Rebecca, Sophia after almost two weeks without seeing each other) 46. the privilege of worshipping my God 47. sound teaching from the Word 48. my husband 49. my three blessings 50.

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-68436487963926713052011-01-08T14:38:00.000-04:002011-01-08T14:38:55.049-04:00

Below you'll find our January 2011 Prayer Letter. If you'd like to be added to our email or hardcopy list, please contact me or leave a comment in the comment box. Potter’s Field Kids (Las Manos del Alfarero) We thank you who support PFK and our family for the privilege to serve here in Costa Rica. We want to thank Hickory Grove Church in rural Indiana for your special offering which

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-679277943631129049.post-74298578817788743442011-01-08T13:25:00.001-04:002011-01-08T13:29:23.485-04:00

Some time ago, my sweet friend Leah gave me an awesome cookbook after she learned of my need to cook from scratch after moving to Costa Rica. The cookbook is called "More-with-Less cookbook" and the tag line says, "suggestions by Mennonites on how to eat better and consume less of the world's limited food resources." The author is Doris Janzen Longacre and you can purchase it here on Amazon.com.

The McClain'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415663143567367541noreply@blogger.com2