Monday, June 28, 2010 WOW-Zine

WOW'S Woman of the Week is none other than Helen LeFebvre.



I've always loved the exotic sound of Helen's last name. It's so different from the mundane "Smith" that was my maiden name! It conjures up visions of adventures in France and people with funny little accents! But it turns out that Helen is as "regular" as the rest of us, and just lives down the road in Carlton. Sit down and have a cup of coffee with us as you get to know Helen a bit better.



Sherrie: Thank you, Helen, for allowing me to interview you this week. I'll try to take it easy on you! How long have you been attending Wapato Valley Church?
Helen: Off and on, for about six or seven years.


Sherrie: What keeps you coming?
Helen: I like Pete's preaching and I like the general atmosphere. I love the music. It's all so different from the churches that I grew up in. There's much more of a feeling of family at Wapato.


Sherrie: Speaking of family, tell me a bit about yours. You and your husband have three kids, don't you?
Helen: Yes, our daughter Nicole is twelve, Ryan is seven, and Kalen is nearly two. She's a very definite two, if you know what I mean! We've been married for sixteen years now.
(An aside from Sherrie--I've heard that Chrissy Jarvis showed up on Helen's honeymoon, but we'll save that story for another time.)


Sherrie: Do you work outside the home?
Helen: Yes, I've worked in the payroll department for the Newberg School District for the past three years. I love the other workers in my office, as a lot of them are Christian women and we're able to support each other when life gets hard. Two years ago I started taking one or two classes a term of college work. I've been able to maintain being on the honor roll!


Sherrie: That's quite an accomplishment, Helen, what with working full time and being a wife and mother. What kind of job do you eventually want to get?
Helen: I'm not quite sure. I'm really interested in going for radiography, but that would mean I'd have to quit my job and go to school full time. We're not sure that's best for the family. Or I might want to go to Linfield and get my degree in Social and Behavioral Science.


Sherrie: Wow, that would be great. Maybe you'd be able to figure me out then! What hobbies do you have?
Helen: I love to read, take walks, be with my family, spend time with girlfriends, go to the beach, do scrapbooking, and cook. I love trying new recipes, or coming up with my own.


Sherrie: Have you always lived in Carlton?
Helen: No, we moved here from Aloha about seven years ago. It's actually pretty interesting, as right around the time we got married we had driven through the Carlton area and fell in love with it. We said we'd like to move there sometime, and about eight years later we did!


Sherrie: So, do you have a Bible verse that is especially meaningful to you?
Helen: I've always liked Phil. 4:6-7. I don't have it memorized in my head, but I have it in my heart. I always seem to have an anxious heart, and these verses help remind me that I don't have to worry.
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."


Sherrie: I think that's a verse we can all relate to needing to have memorized in our heart, Helen. And now, whisper in my ear what your favorite candy is, and the first person to guess it right and post their comment will win some for themselves.
Helen: It would definitely have to be ...


Okay, ladies, now it's your turn to participate. Winners from the past two weeks are Denise and Tami. Let's see if we add someone new this week!

Upcoming Events:

This Wednesday, June 3oth, at 6:30 P.M. is our Rejuvenation Night at Nathalie's. Bring your own little tub if you'd like to soak your feet after a long, weary day. Bring stuff for facials if you need to smooth away stress. And of course some bright polish to your toes and fingernails would just about complete the process! Please bring a snack to share, just because!
Nathalie lives in Forest Grove at 2413 16th Avenue.

Wednesday, July 7th we'll meet at 4 P.M. for an adventure through the Forest Grove Farmer's Market. You are welcome to bring your children with you for this event.

July 14th we plan on taking a hike, and on the 21st we'll spend the day at 5Rock. More details to follow.

And while you're here, make sure to look at the pictures from our Movie Night. These gals really know how to party!! (In the post right before this one.)

Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director sherrieashcraft@yahoo.com 971-285-6699

Father of the Bride Movie Night, June 23, 2010

Monday, June 21, 2010 WOW-Zine

WOW's Woman of the Week--Karen Fordyce!

Have you ever met someone for the first time and instantly knew you would be great friends? That's the way it was with me when I first met Karen seven or eight years ago. There's just something about her warm, smiling face that makes one feel accepted.

She and her husband, Greg, are elders at Wapato and have four grown children. I had a chance Sunday after church to visit with Karen and ask her a few questions. Please eavesdrop on our conversation.



Sherrie: How did you know Greg was the one for you?
Karen: He winked at me! Truly, that was it. He'd been camping with my brother and they unloaded stuff at my folks' house. I was drying dishes and Greg came in the split-level foyer wearing bib overalls and a hat. He got ready to leave, said, "See you later," and winked, and that was it! I just knew!

Sherrie: How did you manage to raise four kids when your husband travels so much. (Greg is an airline pilot.)
Karen: The Lord gets the credit. There were so many times when I didn't know what to do. You have to remember this was before cell phones. I couldn't just call him up and ask for his advice about an issue with one of the kids. I was literally on my own. But I prayed, and every time God would give me an idea or solution on how to handle the situation. Sometimes my heart wasn't right. I would get frustrated with the kids, which would lead to anger. But I would pray and God would give me the right attitude.

Sherrie: What's your biggest challenge at this stage of life when you're basically an empty-nester?
Karen: I would have to say it is balancing relationships. The kids, though grown, are still an important part of my life. We all have scattered schedules and it's hard to find time to be together. That's one of the nice things about sharing a multigenerational house, is that so many of us are so close. Greg and I make an effort to carve out time as a couple. It may be an evening out, or just staying for a date at home. If we don't make time for each other we lose our connection and things don't go right.

Sherrie: You're so right about that, Karen. Are there other things you do to make your marriage work? How long have you been married?
Karen: We'll have been married 33 years in August. I've mentioned the date nights we have. With Greg's schedule of being gone several days a week, I really try to rearrange my schedule for Greg the first night he's home. We like to work on things together--that shoulder-to-shoulder time. When he's leaving for a trip, he always texts me "I love you." And we try to connect every day while he's away. It's a lot easier now with cell phones, texting, and e-mail. When he's home we have a devotional time together in the morning, and every night we pray together in bed. And we love to eat chocolate and drink tea together!

Sherrie: Karen, it sounds like you've got the kind of marriage many women would love to have. No wonder you smile so much and have this glow about you! Do you have a scripture verse that means something special to you?
Karen: I guess it would be Joshua 1:9 where it says, "Be strong and of good courage. Do not be afraid, or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." I've never thought of myself as a courageous person. I tend to hesitate. But when I'm living in the Word and am reminded that He is fighting for me on all side and I don't have to be afraid of anything, that gives me a sense of relief and freedom.

Sherrie: Thank you so much, Karen, for taking time to visit with me even though you're not feeling well today. Now, I have one last question for you. What's your favorite kind of candy?

Karen gave me her answer, but I'm good at keep secrets! Leave a comment guessing what it is, and you'll get one if you're the first person with the correct answer. (And Denise, I still need to give you the Reese's Peanut Butter Cups that you won by answering the question correctly about Amy last week!)

Next Event:

The honor of your presence is requested

for Movie Night at Ashberry Lane

Wednesday, June 23rd, 2010

at seven o'clock in the evening

Please wear something having to do with weddings.

Our hearts will twitterpate as we watch

Father of the Bride

Reception to follow

Call Sherrie at 971-285-6699 for directions

Upcoming Events:

June 30th--Rejuvenation Party at Nathalie's, 7 P.M.

Bring your own tub! Stop by the Dollar Store and pick up items to use

for a foot soak, facial, manicure, etc., as well as a snack. Look forward

to a time of relaxation and conversation. (Women only.)

July 7th--Forest Grove Farmer's Market 4 P.M. (You may bring your family.)

Pictures from past activities:

First we warmed up on June 9th, having a great time in the hot tub. The following week we froze to death at a picnic in McMinnville. But we still had fun!

(I'm not sure what's going on, as when I put the pictures in they show up side by side on the page, but in a line when I look at preview. Sorry, but I'm doing the best I can!)

Monday, June 16, 2010 WOW-zine

WOW'S WOMAN OF THE WEEK!

When I was a young girl growing up in church, the wives of the various pastors all seemed to look about the same to me. They were very old (probably in their 40's!) overweight, and sported shellacked gray hair. And oh, yes, don't forget the piano. They all played the piano. (An apparent prerequisite for being the minister's wife.)

Fast forward to 2010 at Wapato Valley Church and meet Amy Rusaw, wife of Pastor Pete.
She puts the pizazz in ministry with her ankle tattoo and the vibrant jewelry she wears. And get this--she doesn't know how to play the piano! My question is, is she a real pastor's wife?? Decide for yourself after reading my interview with her.

Sherrie: How did you know that Pete was "the one"?
AMY:Because he was cute! Just kidding ... it wasn't something that happened really quick. But the point came when I just knew. I'm not one of those who "hears from God" that often, but I felt a sense of peace about Pete. I appreciated so much about him. He was a man of integrity. He kept his word. If he said he'd be someplace a a certain time, he was. He was fun, caring, and he had a genuine relationship with God.

Our first date was Valentine's Day of 1991. We went to the opening night of Wayne's World. After that show, we snuck into another theater and watched a suspense movie. That gave us a good excuse to hold hands!

Sherrie: Where's one of the most interesting places you've traveled?
AMY: We've been to Europe, but I think my trips to Norway are very special. I've been there four times. That's where my family originated. My grandma came over on a boat from there.

Sherrie: Do you have a Bible verse that means something really special to you?
AMY: Yes, Psalm 37:4. It says " Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." That verse helps me stay focused on what's important. In fact, I'm going to get it tattooed on my left wrist like a bracelet.

Sherrie: What's one of your biggest challenges as a parent of four?
AMY: Staying calm can be a challenge. I just got off the phone from talking to my mother-in-law, and she was telling me she's realized that when getting in to conflict with a kid you don't have the luxury of getting emotional. That sounded like great advice to me, so I'll see how it works!

Sherrie: I know you're a busy woman. What are some of your hobbies?
AMY: I love doing my stamping, reading, spending time with the kids, and running.

Sherrie: Speaking of running, why do you do that? I know you put in miles every week.
AMY: It's a great stress reliever. When I'm out running I get to spend time with God praying and listening to my music. I feel better about my self when I've exercised. It's important to me not just physically, but spiritually and mentally.

Sherrie: What can people pray for in your life?
AMY: That I would be genuine in all areas of my life. That I wouldn't just say what I'm supposed to say, but live a genuine faith.

Sherrie: Is there anything else you'd like to share with people?
AMY: I want to share my life with others, be a trustworthy friend, and to be transparent. I hope people know that I love them and they feel like they can confide in me.

Sherrie: It's been great spending this time with you, Amy. Through the years I've grown to appreciate you more and more. Thanks for breaking the "pastor's wife" mold!

Now, if you readers would like to enter a contest, here's your chance. The first person to leave a comment on the blog telling me what Amy's favorite candy is, will win some of that candy for themselves.

THIS WEDNESDAY'S EVENT (June 16th):

Who: Women and children/grandchildren

What: Picnic in the park

Where: City Park in McMinnville (behind the library/swimming pool)

Corner of Adams and Third St. See directions on last week's blog.

When: 11 A.M. until the cows come home!

Why: Why not? Bring your own lunch, chairs, blanket, etc.

NEXT WEDNESDAY'S EVENT (JUNE 23rd):

Coming soon to a theater near you--Movie Night at Ashberry Lane

7 P.M. Father of the Bride

Creatively wear something to do with weddings!

Prayer Requests

Hi, ladies.

I've received a couple prayer requests from people who have asked for your prayers. (If you're looking for the most recent blog, you'll need to skip down to the one right before this.)

One is from Jodi Boylan, who attended Common Grounds throughout the year. She wrote and said, "I have a favor to ask. Please keep my grandfather and grandmother -- well the whole family in your prayers. I went to stay with my grandparents in Lebanon over Memorial Day weekend to offer some respite care to my mom and aunts. My grandfather is definitely getting ready to transition from this world to the next. He had his Hospice intake meeting yesterday. Please pray that his heart is prepared and that God will be there to hold his hand as he starts his new journey. My grandmother has Alzheimer Disease. Although she understands that something is going on with my grandfather, and she knows who we all are, she can not remember a conversation from a minute ago. This family situation is taking a lot of my time right now .... please be assured that I will reconnect once we get things sorted out as far as my grandparents care. Thank you for your support."

The other is from Patricia Garner who has a fantastic opportunity ahead of her concerning further education. She would like prayer for guidance as she makes decisions.

WOW-Zine

Monday, June 7, 2010

This is when it starts, friends--a summer full of activities that will bring us together for fun, friendship, and food! Not a bad combination, huh?

This Wednesday evening is our Hot Tub Party at Ashberry Lane. I'll provide some goodies and you guys just come and hang out. Please bring your own towel. Hopefully the weather will cooperate, but if it doesn't we'll just visit inside. Or if it's lightly misting we can still go ahead with the hot tub. You can come anytime after six o'clock and stay as long as you'd like. This is for women only. And please, don't worry about what you look like in a swimsuit or shorts. We really don't care about that. It will be an embarrassment-free zone, okay?

COMING EVENTS:

As you know, we've got events coming up every Wednesday. Next week we will celebrate the end of school by meeting at a park for a bring-your-own picnic lunch and play time with your kids. (If you have any.) Kidless women are encouraged to come! Let's venture out of our usual area and head over to the magical land of McMinnville. They have a great park right behind the library. Bring your own lunch, chairs, blankets, whatever. We'll start gathering there at 11 AM.

DIRECTIONS:

When you get to McMinnville, turn right onto Hiway 99W. Just follow that street all the way through town, which eventually turns into Adams St. Cross streets are numerically numbered. When you get to Third St. turn right. (It's at the public library.) Turn right again into the parking lot.

MORE COMING EVENTS:

June 23rd--WOW Movie Night at Ashberry Lane. We'll clebrate a summer love by watching Father of the Bride. You've all seen it before, I'm sure, but it will be a fun movie to share together.

June 30th--Spa Night at Nathalie's. Come for a time of relaxation and spoiling. Nathalie, what do you want people to bring?

Be looking at next week's WOW-zine for an interview with a special woman.

Until then, enjoy your week and I'll see you on Wednesday!

Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director 971-285-6699 sherrieashcraft@yahoo.com

Wow-zine

June 1, 2010


Happy June, ladies! Do you realize it's only six more months until Christmas? And we've yet to enjoy warm weather for any length of time. I'm wondering if I'll ever be able to start wearing capris this year.

I'm on vacation right now, but just wanted to touch base with you and remind you that we'll have some wonderful times together this summer, no matter what the weather. Don't you find that getting together with your friends lifts your spirits? I know a lot of you were not able to make it to Common Grounds during the school year as it just didn't work with your schedule. But I'm really hoping you'll be able to join us for our summer activities.


Coming Events:

June 9th--Hot tub party at Ashberry Lane. This is for women only, so please don't worry about what you look like in a swim suit. I promise you, none of us care. I'll provide snacks. Feel free to arrive anytime after 6 pm.

June 16th--Picnic with the children. Time and place to be announced. (Man, I hope it's warm by then!)

June 23rd--Chick flick movie night at Ashberry Lane. We'll view Father of the Bride in honor of summer weddings.

June 30th--Spa night at Nathalie's. A chance for us to relax and rejuvenate together. More info to come.

Remember me talking in my last blog about wanting to interview women so we can all get to know a specific woman better? I asked for volunteers, but no one has stepped forward. Which means I might have to volunteer you! Don't run and hide when you see me approaching, as I know where you live!!


Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director 971-285-6699 sherrieashcraft@yahoo.com