Gloria

Wow-summer has arrived!  And not only summer…but the heat for us to simmer in, also.  It's close to 90 degrees today, but I won't complain, as I heard it will be 113 degrees in Phoenix, Arizona.  We have a lot of friends and partners that live down there, and I don't know how they survive the summers.  But then again, they don't understand how we survive the South Dakota winters! 

It has been a joy to be working this past month in the beautiful Black Hills.  Even more important than the natural beauty, it has been thrilling to see so many people come to Christ.  Last Sunday, on Father's Day, we ministered in Belle Fourche, SD, at Christian Life Center.  What an action-packed day!  We had 8:00 am, 10:30 am, and 6:00 pm services.  At the end of each service, the altar was lined with people responding to receive Christ or to rededicate their lives to Him.  There were families, couples, singles, and seniors amongst all those that made decisions.  We had 16 first-time commitments, as well as many rededications.  There were numerous testimonies of what God did, but I just had to share this one:

Larry and I ministered on family relationships and forgiveness.  When Larry gave the altar call at the 8:00 service, a rancher and his wife who were up in years raised their hands, stood, and came forward to pray.  Little did we know that the church had been praying for them for years.  They prayed the sinner's prayer and then we had designated counselors counsel them.  Wouldn't you know that the counselor they happened to receive was their grandson,  Aaron.  Wow-what a tear-jerker to see Aaron sharing the "Steps to Peace with God" with his grandparents!  It was truly an unforgettable Father's Day for that family.  There were also four to six seniors in their 70s and 80s that got saved for the first time.  We needed boxes of tissues to hand out to those observing the prodigals who found their way home on Father's day.

Last Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday (June 14-16), we held rallies in a school auditorium in Hill City, SD.  Though the crowds were smaller than we'd hoped, the decisions that God ordained in the lives of those who attended was precious.  The first night when Larry gave the altar call, several young teens came forward to rededicate their lives.  I noticed that among them was our grandson Dante.  He went forward to refresh his commitment to Christ!  The greatest joy for any parent or grandparent is to see our loved ones respond to an altar call.  Dante left for a Bible camp on near Sturgis, SD on Monday.  He has met so many kids out here, and so we were thrilled that he could go with them to camp.  Myanna wondered why she couldn't go, but I told her I needed her to "help take care of Grandma."  She's my "runner" to fetch things that I need!  It is such a joy to have her with us.

Last Friday, I had physical therapy in Rapid City again.  I've been going two to three times a week this past month.  On the way, we dropped Dante and Myanna off at the water slide park.  We had driven by five times a week, back and forth from therapy and doctor appointments.  Each time they would "ooh" and "aah" and plead!  So we told them that because they've been so good to help us set up, tear down, and so on, this would be their treat.  Needless to say, they had five fun-filled hours on the water slides!  When they came out, they were starved, so they ate and ate and ate.  They had a great time! 

Meanwhile, I did my physical therapy.  My therapist, David, looked at my wound again and agreed that this should have been healed two months ago.  We decided the next step was to get into a wound-care clinic where they work with wounds that have difficulty healing.  We rushed right over to the wound-care clinic and were told there was no way we could get in for many days because of the full schedule and all the red tape to get through.  But, Larry pleaded with them to please just look at the wound to see if we needed to pursue follow-up at a wound-clinic somewhere else.  They graciously complied, looked at my wound, and agreed that I needed it attended to immediately.  They then reached my doctors at Regional Hospital where I was two weeks ago in the emergency room, and through one little miracle after another, I was in a treatment room in less than an hour!  They scraped and cleaned out the wound, which wasn't exactly a whole lot of fun.  They redressed it and put on a soft bandage-cast from my toes to my knee.  So I'm "all wrapped up" once again!  They are trying to pull the blood up for circulation to get the swelling down in my foot and leg.  Prayerfully, the blood flow will help the wound to finally heal.  I'm trusting God for good news when I go to the clinic again tomorrow.

Myanna looked at my leg all wrapped up again and asked what the doctors had done.  I explained the procedure to her.  She wrinkled her nose and said, "Ooh!"  I told her it was important to get all the bad stuff out so the wound can heal.  She responded, "Oh…okay!"  I thought about that.  Many of us have been hurt and wounded, and not by ladders, but by unkind words, false accusations, and un-forgiveness.  If we allow the infection of hurt, pain, and disappointments of life to fester, the deeper the wound and the uglier the scar will be.  I know, because I've been guilty of it myself.  But God kept prompting me to give it up, clean out my heart, and let it heal.  It wasn't easy-I had to choose to forgive the person and let go of the hurt.  Colossians 3:13 says, "Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another…if any man have a quarrel against any, even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye."  That pretty much says it in black and white!  I certainly didn't feel like forgiving, but I had to choose to.  At last I surrendered and said, "God, I give it to You.  I can't handle the pain of this offense anymore."   When I finally gave it to God, He began the healing process.  Then the peace of God began to rule in my heart again.  What a relief and joy!

Well, I must go.  I have to go to a doctor appointment, and after that, Myanna and I are going to attempt to do our laundry that has been piled up for two weeks!  Our schedule has been so full that we simply haven't had time to do it.  I was happy that LaDawn sent lots of clothes along for the kids.  She thought ahead, because she knows I have a hard time getting around.  But now…everything's dirty, so off to work we go!  Myanna is certainly Grandma's good helper.

Have a great week, and enjoy all the good moments God gives you!  We'll talk again next week.

Gloria

Hi!  I can hardly believe another week has already flown by.  It seems that every time I blink, the "On the Road" report is due again!  We are still in Keystone, South Dakota, and will be based out of here for nearly one-and-a-half more weeks.  It has been pouring rain almost every day for two weeks now.  No one here is complaining except the tourists, because this area of SD has been in a severe drought for nearly five years.  In the prairie land, we all count on the crops of the land developing and cattle being able to graze, so the recent rains are an answer to many farmers' prayers. 

Remember the infamous leaking vent on top of the coach?  The one that Larry was working on February 28, the day of the ladder accident?  Well, guess what-it's leaking yet again.  What a low blow that is!  I have a container in the aisle to catch the "running creek"-ha!  Larry will have to get someone up there to repair it, as I'm not letting him get up on top of the coach again-and I am staying far away from ladders!!  I have had many friends write and tell me that every time they use a ladder now, they are much more cautious and are reminded to pray for me.  That is so sweet, because I still need all the prayer I can get. 

I've had kind of a roller-coaster medical week again.  Last week, I told you that my therapist rushed me over to the Rapid City Regional Hospital's emergency room, because of a probable infection in my wound.  At the time, they were very, very concerned that I might also have infection in the bone.  They took a blood culture-and praise the Lord, the test results came back okay!  I'm still on the antibiotic, and need more procedures to care for the sensitive wound.  If it doesn't get better in the next two days, it has been recommended that I seek care at a wound center.  I am believing for healing before that happens.  I really do count on your continued prayers for the unbearable pain I have throughout my entire body, due to the trauma from the injury.  The pain seems to continually get worse by the day, and I'm trusting for a miracle from God.

The good news is that I took my first walk with no crutches last Friday! I walked about 150 feet, from the coach to the motel room.  I was so intense in my "solo run," that I didn't notice Larry standing in the doorway of the motel room.  He hollered out, "Well, look at you!  You're walking!  I'm proud of you."  He was so excited that you would've thought I was a horse coming in first in a race.  Well, I wasn't in "full trot"-I was literally inching my way along-but it gave me confidence that I could start to do it on my own.  Three-and-a-half months without walking was a long time!

Last Saturday, we drove from Keystone to Sturgis, SD, the home of the annual world-renowned Harley Davidson Motorcycle Rally.  On the way, Larry stopped for about a half-hour at Mount Rushmore to show Myanna the four faces of the presidents.  She had never seen them, and was in awe of how big their noses were!  Dante had been there previously when he'd traveled with us.  As we travel throughout the country, people are always asking where we are from.  Larry always answers, "South Dakota-have you ever heard of our famous rock group?"  They are always kind of taken aback and look at him confusedly.  Then he grins and says, "It's Mount Rushmore, the four 'rock faces'."  They usually blush, and then chuckle.  You never do know what that Larry is going to come up with next!

Anyway, back to Sturgis.  We came to have a different type of a rally, and that was a soul-winning rally! We met in a school auditorium on Sunday morning, June 12, and 13 people made decisions for Christ.  It was such a sweet service.  One couple approached me as they were leaving the school and said, "Thank you, Gloria, for your time of ministry this morning.  You really encouraged us!  You'll never know how much we needed hope to push on."  We were also privileged to have a youth group from Beulah, North Dakota, assist us in putting out flyers during the week, which helped bring in more visitors.  The group is from the Assembly of God church in Beulah, which is pastored by Rev. Enget.  That youth group also held a Vacation Bible School for the community children and helped out the local church in Sturgis by painting and doing other useful jobs.  On Sunday morning, they performed a human video and also provided the counseling for people responding to the altar call.  It's so great to see young people invest their lives, time and effort to go out and minister where needed!

This coming Sunday, which is Father's Day, we'll be ministering in Belle Fourche, SD.  As always, I can't help but think about my father, who passed away five years ago at the age of 87.  We really miss him!  Since I am the only daughter amongst 10 sons, I always told my dad that "I would always be his little girl."  The last time I saw him alive was about six weeks before he died.  As usual, before I left, I told him that I loved him and gave him a big bear hug and kiss. He was usually a bit stingy with his hugs in return, but would ultimately give me a big, quick squeeze-of-a-hug.  This time it was as if he knew it was his last chance on earth to hug me-for he lingered and held me like he never had before.  I just melted in his arms.  I felt like I was a little girl again being held securely by her daddy. 

I've held the memory of that last intimate embrace from my daddy close to my heart.  I had just spoken to my dad a few hours before he died suddenly from a massive heart attack, and as I always did, I ended the phone conversation by telling him that I loved him.  I'm so glad that everything was great between us at his passing.  I have no regrets of unsaid words or unresolved conflict.  What a wonderful way to have ended our earthly relationship! If your father is still alive, take the opportunity this Father's Day to call him or go visit him.  Tell him that you love him and give him a big hug, for you never know when he may take his last breath, or when you will!  Be sure to "clean the slate" and offer forgiveness if there are any unresolved problems between the two of you.  You'll be so glad you did, and then you will have no regrets!  Make this a wonderful, unforgettable Father's Day.

Well, I must run--literally, it's time to hit the road!  We'll talk again next week.  God bless you!

Gloria

Hello from the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota!  It's a gorgeous June day, with a temperature of about 78 degrees.  The sky is filled with sunshine, and south breezes are blowing through the pine trees.  I just love pines! 

We are parked in Keystone, SD, at an RV campground owned by some dear friends of ours.  They are graciously letting us park here for three weeks as we drive here and there throughout the Hills for our ministry rallies.  We have a busy schedule ahead of us, but it's so nice not to be parked on concrete or pavement for a change.  From where our coach sits, we can see the side profile of one of America's greatest wonders: Mount Rushmore.  The monument is three miles from here, but the presidents' huge stone profiles can easily be seen. Many years ago when we traveled with Lowell  and Connie Lundstrom, we filmed a  television special called "Moving through Dakota Country," and wedid some scenes by Mount Rushmore.   All of our children were little at the time-now they've moved on with their own lives. 

Speaking of children, we made our "annual pick-up" last Friday night in Sioux Falls, SD.  We picked up our two grandchildren: Dante, age 12, and Myanna, who is almost seven years old.  We've been taking Dante on the road with us every summer since he was a two- or three-year-old toddler.  Instead of traveling with us, Myanna usually comes to stay in Sisseton when we are at home there.  She loves to play house, and there's more room to play there than there is in the coach.  But last year, she decided to join us on the road.  She loves all the action out here! 

With my injury, I wasn't sure if I would be able to handle the grandkids.  I knew I would have to have much more help from Larry, so I left the decision up to him.  Without hesitation, he said, "Yes, I want them to come-I'll fill in for you."  So now Larry has me to take care of-plus overseeing the two grandchildren, in addition to all his ministry responsibilities. 

Right now as I'm writing this, Larry is "up to his neck" in bus repair projects.  He's working on the speedometer and the jake brake, which is crucial to have working for the steep hills around here.  Anyway, that's his challenge for today.  This coach is almost 16 years old, so as they say, "The honeymoon is over."  Now it is just fix, fix, fix! 

Last Saturday, we drove to Spearfish, South Dakota.  It's a beautiful little community nestled in the northern Black Hills, and is the home of the first Passion Play ever to be presented outdoors.  The Passion Play has been going on for 66 years now. 

We set up our equipment at Calvary Temple Assembly of God, and that was when our grandchildren came in handy!  They helped their Grandpa do the work of hauling in the equipment.  That's certainly a plus for Grandpa!  Sunday we had two morning services as well as an evening rally.  The pastor's son, who normally plays the drums for the worship, was on vacation, so the worship leader, Lynn, asked Dante to drum.  And he did!  He did a good job, too.  He's been working on the drums for about seven years.  His mother, LaDawn, is also a drummer, so it seems to come naturally for him. 

In all, we had three precious services, and 23 decisions were made for Christ.  There were also several who came forward to rededicate their lives to the Lord.  Some of those had once served God, but through all the trials and struggles of life, just got lost in the shuffle.  It is so dear to our hearts to see prodigals "come home."  There were many tearful reunions at the altar!

The Bible tells the story of the 100 sheep-99 accounted for, and one who was lost.  Jesus certainly loved all of them that were safe and sound with their shepherd.  But He was even more concerned about the one lost sheep which had gone astray.  I'm sure it wasn't intentional; the sheep just nibbled his way away from the shepherd and the rest of the flock.  Even so, there are many people today who, like that lost sheep, have just gotten caught up into the craziness of life and have "nibbled" their way away from the Heavenly Father.  Once you know Christ, you're never a happy sinner.  There's always a painful emptiness and a void that only Jesus can fill.  So when we see lost sheep coming home, we are so thrilled!

Tuesday, June 7: Medical update

As you know from last week, I completed a month of physical therapy in Sisseton.  At my last appointment, my therapist noticed what looked like an infection in my wound.  Until now, the wound has done extremely well in its healing journey.  My doctor put me on an antibiotic, which I have been taking for the past five days.  Unfortunately, the wound site just wasn't looking any better, and my foot and leg had begun to swell.  The pain has been out of control these past two days. 

I was scheduled to start my month of therapy at the Regional Hospital in Rapid City this afternoon.  When my new therapist, David, looked at my wound and swollen foot, he immediately called over to the Emergency Room and told them he was bringing me in right away.  Thus, the next three-and-a-half hours were spent in a treatment room doing an ultrasound to rule out a blood clot, a blood test to check my white blood cell count, and a blood culture to be sure I don't have infection in my bones.  A bone infection would create a panic of problems that could potentially be very dangerous.  As I lay on that table, I kept praying, "God, please have mercy on me.  I need your touch, and I need good reports." 

Hours later, the doctor came in and said, "The gods are with you [whatever she meant by that]--your ultrasound is good, showing no sign of blood clots.  Your white blood count is also good.  Now we'll have to wait three days for the results of the blood culture to make sure there's no infection in the bones."  They re-wrapped my wound, gave me more medicine and pain medicine, and instructed me to keep off my feet as much as possible.  I also must keep that leg elevated to try to relieve the extreme swelling. 

So, we just got back to our coach in Keystone where we are parked, and I thank God for the good reports.  I am believing and praying that the antibiotic will kill this infection so I can continue on my journey back to good health.  I really count on your prayers more than you'll ever know.  I truly am in need of a touch from the Lord.  Thanks again!

It's been so fun talking with you, as always, and we'll touch base again next week.

Gloria

    This is Angela Nible with her husband and children.  She is the childrens pastor at Calvary Temple in Spearfish.  She commented, "Gloria, you made a great impact on my life way back at Trinity Bible College in Ellendale, ND, many years ago.  You spoke to all of us college girls.  I've never forgotten all that you shared, and I've also shared much of it with others through the years.  Thanks again for the effect you've had on my spiritual life.  I had wanted to tell you this for years, and now I finally got to do it!  I really enjoyed you and Larry's ministry through music, word, and testimony."

    This is Heidi Burghduff, who said, "I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your service here at Spearfish.  I had never heard or seen you before.  I loved the music and preaching.  I'm a single parent, and yes, I need lots of encouragement."

Lamentations 3:22-23 NRSV

The Lord your God...will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17

June 1, 2005

Hi!  Can you believe that May is already history?  It seems that we just got back from our four-month tour, and now it's practically summer.  With our busy office schedule of booking rallies and answering mail, and the addition of physical therapy and doctor appointments, the days have flown by. 

I have just completed a month of physical therapy here in my hometown of Sisseton, South Dakota.  We were blessed to be able to be home and to take my therapy just one block away.  Isn't that great!?  God has been so good to direct us to competent, caring doctors and therapists on this unexpected medical journey. 

I'm so happy-I took my first baby steps on my own this week!  I look like a wobbly toddler without my crutches, but I did it.  Three months without walking was really emotionally difficult.  I still have to use the crutches and wheelchair at times.  Lord willing, though, I will no longer need them in a few weeks.  My last therapy session here in Sisseton will be tomorrow (June 2nd).  Then on Friday, we will load up the coach and head out west to the Black Hills of South Dakota for more rallies.  It is such beautiful country, and I'm looking forward to the majestic hills, pine trees, and soft breezes.  I plan to continue therapy at another Wellness Center in Rapid City, South Dakota. 

Last Friday night, LaDawn, Dante and Myanna traveled from Minneapolis to Sisseton to spend the weekend with us.  Or, as my grandchildren say, "We're going to Grandma and Grandpa's house in the woods."  It was a breath of fresh air to have them at home with us!  Dante and Myanna ran outside and hunted out bird nests, where they found eggs and baby birds.  They love to visit at this time of year! 

Grandpa bought them a gallon of vanilla ice cream and a container of chocolate syrup and said, "Eat all the ice cream you want-you're at Grandpa's."  Actually, I suspect he used the grandkids as an alibi, because he knows the "Food Cop" (yep, that would be me!) wouldn't want him to have it otherwise.  Anyway, they had ice cream sundaes for three straight days.  Dante said, "That's why I love being with Grandpa-he always likes treats!"  Smart kid-he's got that Grandpa of his figured out. 

Myanna played house with her dolls and enjoyed playing games.  She came bouncing upstairs, crawled up into my lap, and said, "Grandma, I wrote a note for you."  With her big brown eyes dancing, she handed it to me.  This is what it said:

Dear Gram,
You are the best Gram I've ever had.  I'd never trade you.  You rock!
Myanna

Needless to say, she made my day!  Just to think that a 61-year-old could "rock."  Now that's a chuckle!

On Monday (Memorial Day), we all went out to Larry's little hometown of Peever, South Dakota, to the cemetery to visit his parents' and relatives' graves.  His two brothers, Lowell and Leon, were home also, so we all met there.  We reminisced about the earlier years when their parents were alive.  There were so many fond and fun memories!  Then Larry and I went to visit the Lundstrom farmhouse.  We had only been in it once since Larry's mom died four years ago.  We kind of dreaded going back to the farmstead knowing they were gone, but it ended up to be a real delight.  The Lundstrom brothers have rented out the house to a sweet young couple with two precious little children.  The first thing we saw as we drove in was a full swing set.  That did our hearts good!  We were invited in and there were toys, children, and laughter--how refreshing.  It washed away the sad memories and replaced them with new happy memories of the Lundstrom farmhouse.

Well, thanks again for allowing us to have this chat time!  We will be very busy during the next two days, packing the coach for this upcoming tour.  As always, we will appreciate your continued prayers as we venture out.  Please pray for souls to be saved and also for my health.  As you know, our hearts are "on the road."  Larry and I spend our lives traveling from destination to destination, sharing with people how to change their eternal destination.  Thousands have come to Christ in the past few years, so it is worth the effort.  Have a great week, and we'll talk to you from the Black Hills of South Dakota!

Gloria

Hi!  I'm sitting here in my living room recliner, watching the rain pelt our windows.  It was in the mid 80's a couple days ago, but today it's in the mid 50's, with wind and driving rain.  It's a good day for ducks-but not for us.  I'm so glad we are tucked cozily in here!  In fact, we even had to put the heat on to take the wet chill out of the air.

I have been doing my home therapy for the past hour.  I generally do it three to four times per day.  It's not something I look forward to, due to the added pain it brings-but, it's the only way I'll get better.  I told Larry again this morning, "Honey, take good care of yourself.  It's easier to maintain good health than it is to restore it."  I'm just glad I'm three months past this incident.  I certainly wouldn't want to relive the past 90 days.  Each day I encourage myself, "Gloria, you're one day closer to feeling better."  To be really honest, I never could have dreamt this ordeal would be this traumatizing.  Thankfully, God and Larry have been within arm's reach at all times.  Many days, I'm almost overwhelmed at Larry's wonderful attitude, compassion, motivation, and patience with taking care of me.  It's been cute to watch him learn to multi-task in the domestic areas that I've always taken care of, such as laundry, dishes, and cleaning.  I feel badly at times that I'm so helpless and such a "pest."  I need him for absolutely everything, which interrupts his ministry business and duties.  But, he always comes over, smiles and says, "Now, do you hear me complaining?  I love being there for you.  You are not a problem.  It is a privilege to help you."  That almost makes me cry with gratitude.  I am so blessed!

Last weekend (May 21-22), we had two rallies scheduled in Yankton SD, which is about 250 miles from Sisseton.  I wanted to go with Larry, but was concerned about making the long trip in the car.  Larry fixed it so I could prop up my injured leg.  I was able to make the trip over surprisingly well! Coming back, however, was another story.  We got to Yankton on Friday night and on Saturday, Larry set up the equipment in the church.  He wheeled my wheelchair in and transferred me to my high stool behind the soundboard by him, so I could run the sound and sing from the chair.  Before we unloaded, we had gone to lunch with some of our dear partners from Iowa and Nebraska.  When she saw me still in the wheelchair, three months later-Mary Arehart put her hand on my shoulder, and her eyes filled with concern.  She said, "Honey, are you going to be able to sing and speak with Larry at the rally?"  I broke the ice with my response: "Mary, I broke my leg, not my mouth.  You know me-I can still talk with a broken leg!"  She laughed, "I guess you're right."

We had a rally on Saturday night, and among those that made decisions for Christ, three were first-time.  That made it especially worth the run!  Sunday morning we had a precious service again with Pastor Jeff Mantz of Yankton First Assembly of God.  Again, lives were changed.  After the service I was approached by a woman named Sandi who was traveling through the area, and had decided to come to church there.  She didn't know that we were guests there that day.  She beamed, "Gloria, when I walked in, I was so surprised to see you.  Can I tell you something?"  I responded, "Sure."  She continued, "I want to thank you for coming to Freeman, SD to our missionary church 10 years ago.  It was our church's Christmas program.  I had asked my son Alan, who was eight years old at the time, to invite his Grandpa to come.  His Grandpa never did attend church, but to our surprise, we saw him walk through the church doors that night!  After the children's' program, you and Larry preached, sang and gave an altar call.  Many came to Christ.  Larry personally prayed the sinner's prayer with my father-in-law.  We all heard him repeat the prayer.  From that moment on, he was a changed man.  Four months ago he passed away, and thank God, we know he's in heaven!  So I just want to thank you again for coming to our church so that he could come to Christ."  It is that type of testimony that gives us the strength and encouragement to keep going.

After the morning service, we journeyed back to Sisseton and my leg "barked" all the way home-ha!  It was telling me, "I've had enough.  I hurt and I want to go home."  So, I was happy to settle in my chair again.  Several folks have commented, "Gloria, don't go with Larry.  Stay home instead."  But you see, Larry and I are both called to ministry and we love being together.  And so far, Larry has said, "Gloria, I'll do anything I can do to make you comfortable if you want to come with me.  You are not a burden, you are my sweetheart."  So if he's willing to haul me around-then I'm willing to go. 

This week has again been busy with office work and home therapy.  It definitely keeps me out of mischief!  A few nights ago, our secretary Marne Snaza, her husband Kirk, and their daughter Aspen came up to our house for a short visit.  Aspen will be two years old this summer, and she is truly "action packed!"  She was mesmerized by my wheelchair.  Aspen brought us laughter and lots of chuckles.  This photo of her definitely shows her personality!  Don't you just love children?  They always add zest to life.  Jesus loves the little children, and He always called to have them come to Him.  Somehow, with all the heaviness of meeting peoples' physical, emotional and spiritual needs, I'm sure He needed a lift at times, too.  You can be sure that when He placed them on his lap, they said little things that tickled Him, lifted His spirit, and made Him laugh.  This photo of Aspen, no doubt, would bring a smile to His face like it did to ours.

Well, again it's been fun talking to you.  If you enjoy this "On the Road" update, why not invite a friend to join us on this weekly journey?  Have a great week, and a wonderful Memorial Day weekend.

Gloria

May 18, 2005

Hi!  It's so great to wake up in my own home.  I can hear the birds singing and feel the spring breezes softly coming through the window.  It is so refreshing!  Then, I smell the aroma of coffee.  Larry is bidding me to make my journey out to the living room, where I will nest in my favorite chair.  Larry is so sweet to bring me my coffee--and thus begins our morning "date" and devotion time.  We look forward to that each day!

Again, the past week was action-packed.  My home therapy takes about three hours a day and I go to the wellness clinic every other day, which is only about one block from our home.  That is definitely easier than the half-hour drive through the Nashville traffic, which we did all last month in order to go to my therapy.  My physical therapy started out light, and is now getting more intense, causing me more pain.  But as the old saying goes, "No pain, no gain!"-and that's the truth!  I have a great therapist-Kelli is a born-again Christian, so we never lack for conversation during that one-hour-plus session.  I have prayed that through this trial, God would lead us to people to encourage, and He surely has done that.  Larry and I have had numerous opportunities to witness to and encourage others.  In my last therapy session, Kelli instructed me to put a bit more weight on my injured foot, in order to begin to toughen it up.  That foot has been dormant for 10 weeks, and it will take much time and intense therapy to get it moving again.  Kelli put me between two rails to help steady my balance, and asked me to put a bit more weight on my right foot.  Wow-what an experience!  As soon as I put some weight on it, I felt like the Tin Man in "The Wizard of Oz"--like I was made out of buckets, screws, and bolts!  Immediately it felt like I had a boulder hanging off my leg.  I wanted to holler, "What's that thing hanging there?  It doesn't look like my foot, and it doesn't act like it either!"  Ha!  The nerve endings really came alive, and so did I.  Larry happened to get that first step on his camera, and when I saw the photo, I told him, "Wow, I can sure see the look of concern and pain on my face."  While I was doing that exercise, I fell into sort of a limp.  Kelli said, "Gloria, don't limp, or you'll always limp!"  That was like telling someone not to breathe.  She instructed, "If you have to lean more on the rails or your crutches, do it-but do not allow your body to limp."  Wow-what a lesson in life!  How many times have we been hurt, disappointed, let down, or discouraged, and we allow ourselves to "limp" spiritually?  God doesn't want us to limp, or fall into self-pity and rejection.  He asks us to lean on Him.  That takes all the pressure off of us!  He promises to hold us up with the right hand of His righteousness.  If we lean on Him, He will strengthen our steps-spiritually and physically.  God sure has interesting lessons for us to learn from our daily life, doesn't He?

Last Sunday (May 15), we were privileged to minister in our little hometown church in Sisseton, South Dakota.  It was fun to see family and friends again!  Among the congregation were several "silver saints" who had prayed for Larry and me when we were young kids growing up in the church.  They taught us Sunday School, mentored us as teens, and have followed our ministry now for over 40 years.  We had a precious altar call, with several responding to rededicate their lives or to be encouraged in the Lord.  There were also three first-time commitments made.  God is good!

Monday, May 16:  I had therapy again.  Ouch!  It's getting more intense, but I need to toughen up.  Larry certainly can't push me around in a wheelchair for the next 20 years-ha!

Tuesday, May 17:  Today was my 61^st birthday.  Who said I could get that old that fast?  For several days, Larry has been asking me what I want to do for my birthday, or where I'd like to go.  Due to the pain and hassle of getting up and down steps, in and out of cars, wheelchairs, and crutches, I suggested, "Honey, let's celebrate it when I'm up and walking--then you can take me to someplace expensive!"  Ha!  Larry responded, "If that's what you want, then I'll just take you to the gas station!"  Sounds like him, doesn't it?  Anyway, during a sleepless Monday night, when I was up fighting the dragon of pain, I changed my mind about having a party.  On Tuesday morning during our coffee date, I chirped up, "Honey, I decided I do want a party.  Would you please do me a favor?  Would you buy me a Dairy Queen ice cream cake?"  His eyes got big-of course food is his favorite, and he never turns it down.  I said, "I'd like to invite five of our friends from the church that have deeply impacted our lives."  So Larry made the phone calls.  There is nothing like planning a party four hours in advance, huh?  All five people excitedly accepted our invitation.  At 3:30 pm, all our guests arrived.  The first guest was my mom, who is "the wind beneath my wings."  She consistently encourages me, teaches me, and gives me godly advice. We also pray together almost every night by phone.  (Thank God for free evening minutes on our cell phone plan.)  Oh, how I cherish those prayer sessions together!  My mom is 89 ½ years old.  The next guest was Vivian Opsal and her husband Morris.  He is 90 years old, and she is 87.  She taught me Sunday School and Missionettes when I was a pre-teen, and has had a great impact on my life.  Morris's mother was the one who called our family weekly in the early 1950s to invite us to church.  Finally after many months, we all went--and we all got saved!  Then there was Clara Bubak Hanson, who is 100 ½ years old!  She was my mom's mentor after our family came to Christ, and she had personal Bible studies with Mom.  Those studies were ultimately passed on to us children.  Thank God she took the time to grow Mom in the Word!  Lastly, there was the youngest guest: Lorraine Sampson, "only" 84 years old, who has been an encourager to us and prays for us.  She is such an inspiration.  What a precious time we had over the birthday cake!  I had the opportunity to again thank them personally for the big part they've had in our lives spiritually all through the years.  Because of people like them, who have invested in our lives, we've been able to in turn lead thousands to Christ.  So, our party guests ranged in age from 84 to 100 ½ -isn't that great?  That was a special birthday for me, and I will never forget it. 

Before I forget to mention it-I told you last week that spring is my favorite time of year.  I love coming home and watching the robins build their nests, lay their eggs, and hatch their babies.  Being wheelchair bound, I've been feeling a bit cheated that I couldn't physically go outside and get close enough to see the nest.  Well, guess what-two days ago, as I was sitting at my dining room table doing my office work, I looked out the window and saw a robin's nest in our evergreen only 20 feet away!  This past week, the mama has been proudly sitting on her nest.  Then last Friday, I saw baby birds pop their big long necks and beaks out of the nest!  Now I get to watch the mama robin bring back worms to feed her babies.  As I'm sure you can guess, I've gotten a lot of chuckles out of this "up close" event.  I thought to myself, "God has a way of going above and beyond meeting our needs.   He also gives us little gifts along the way."  This was God's special little gift to me!  Of course, I call my grandkids to tell them the day-by-day events of the bird's nest, and they chuckle and giggle along with me.

Well, it's been fun talking to you.  I must get to my office work and finish up the upcoming newsletter.  It's always a treat to have our "visits," and I look forward to connecting with you again next week!

Gloria 

Here is a fun tidbit shared with us by our partners, Mel and Norma Haugen, on May 2nd:

"What a joy to read your progress report!  Your boot and mine could pass for "twins."  Ha!  Hopefully, I will be out of my boot in another few weeks.  To me, my X-rays didn't look that good this past week, but I guess my orthopedic surgeon knows better.  Are we going to be able to forecast the weather from now on?  My foot really tells the story before each and every weather change!!  I really wasn't counting on that-I had only prayed for healing, not to become a 'weather man!'"

 Thought for the Week

"Today, I want to see beyond the obvious; to value all of those I encounter in my life; to make choices which will benefit everyone concerned...
Lord, open my eyes and ears to embrace Your peace now.  Teach me of Your own dependence on the Father during your life on earth.  May I know the true poverty of spirit that marks me as Your disciple.  Amen."

--from The Lord's Blessings by Isabel Anders

Wednesday, May 11, 2005

Wow-what a whirl-wind week of events!  When I stop to think of it…I guess they all are like that.

Last Wednesday, May 4^th, we made our final trek to Sisseton.  When we drove into our driveway, it was about 6:30 pm and the sun was just beginning to set.  It was so breathtaking to see my home after this long, four-month tour--I just got the warm fuzzies!  When we left in Jan, it was cold, snowy, and dismal.  Now we were greeted by warm breezes, trees budding, green grass, and a choir of birds all singing as if to say, "Welcome home!" 

After Larry unloaded me from the coach to the wheelchair, I asked him to push me over by our evergreen, where I saw a robin nesting in the branches.  That's a true sign of spring in this area!  It was such a cute sight.

Meanwhile, Larry huffed and puffed to unload the coach and car.  It was his first load-out at the end of a tour all by himself in our 39 years of marriage.  I felt guilty just sitting and watching, but couldn't do anything about it.  He did it all, and put it all away.  Wow-it's been amazing to see all of Larry's "hidden talents" (ha!) emerge since I've had this broken leg.  He has really stepped up to the plate with no complaining.  After he unloaded all the stuff, he helped me journey up the nine steps to our living area.  In the 25 years we've lived in this house, I had never felt the strain of those steps before-until then.  I took one step at a time, pausing and pulling myself to the next step.  When I finally reached the very top one, I was exhausted.  I just lay back on the floor, laughed and told Larry, "This is just too much work; I won't be begging to go anywhere!" 

Well, that quickly changed, since I really wanted to see my mother.  The next day, Larry helped me through this progression: down the steps, to my crutches, to the wheelchair, into the car, to her house, back to the wheelchair, back to the crutches, and into her house, then once more back into the wheelchair.  That felt like a three-week tour all on its own!  What a joy it was to be greeted by my little 5'2" Norwegian mother with a big hug and a smile!  Her hug made all that effort worth it.  Mom is 89 ½ years old, but has the heart and spirit of about a 35-year-old.  She still has lots of energy, life, laughter, and zest.  When I'm around her, I feel like the older one-ha!  Just as we got into the house, I smelled coffee brewing, and she said, "Missy and Larry, I have fresh caramel rolls just out of the oven for you."  Was that ever music to our ears!  Mom has been making those delicious, gooey caramel rolls for over 60 years.  She also made us homemade strawberry jam to go on her fresh, homemade wheat bread.  Mmmm, good!  It's always a special joy to have Mom waiting for us when we come home. 

On Mother's Day, May 8^th, we ministered in Morris, Minnesota.  Larry preached a great message for "Mothers & Others."  When he gave the altar call, between 15-18 people came forward, including five first-time commitments to the Lord.  Most of those that responded were between the ages of 20 and 35.  Among them was a young couple with their little baby.  It is always thrilling to see lives changed at the altar!  Larry had rigged up a high stool for me to sit on, from which I was able to run sound and sing.  Then he helped me back into the wheelchair.   By the end of the rally, my leg was arcing with pain.  It will get better, though, as time goes by. 

We drove back to Sisseton that afternoon, and nestled back into our home.  Monday, May 9th, I had my first session of physical therapy at the hospital right across the street.  My foot rebelled at this new program!  My therapist, Kelli, started the exercises on my foot, and it felt like I had a brick in my foot that didn't want to budge-but it will.  I have between three and four hours of home therapy exercises to do daily.  So, between all my office work and the therapy, I won't have to worry about getting bored!  Prayerfully, a month of this therapy will make a big difference in my leg and foot.

Wednesday, May 11: I'm getting ready to go to my next doctor appointment.  I have another new orthopedic surgeon with whom I will be meeting today.  I am anxious to see the X-ray to see how my injury is healing.  I believe that God will provide good results!  I will provide another update sometime after the appointment.  Your prayers continue to be so appreciated!

3:45 PM

Hi!  We just left the clinic.  I met Dr. Johnson, my new orthopedic surgeon, and he was pleased with the healing progress of the wound.  He commented on the great job my original surgeon did in Slidell, LA.  Larry had his doctor's file of photos and x-rays that he takes to each of the doctors.  When Dr. Johnson saw the photo taken at the accident on February 28th, he gasped, "He really did hurt you, didn't he!  I haven't seen an injury of this type, that severe, in many, many years!"  I am so thankful that through all of this God had the right hospital, the right surgeon, and the right follow-up doctors when and where I needed them.  Dr. Johnson, again, stressed that bone healing in an injury of this magnitude takes a long time.  Now, it is urgent that we start an intense physical therapy program to get this foot moving again.  It has been dormant for 2 1/2 months which really makes it rigid.  He wants me to start putting 25% of my weight on my foot without my big black boot on it.  It is necessary that I get back up on my crutches so please pray with me that the pain will be tolerable as I push forward with this recovery.  The Bible says, "Pray ye one for another."  We daily pray for all of you and we count on your prayers.  It is such a comfort to know that you are there.  God bless you!  Have a wonderful week, and I will update you again, May 19th.

Tuesday, May 3, 2005

Hi!  I can hardly believe it's May already!  So much has happened in the past week, so let me catch my breath, gather my thoughts--and we'll proceed.

After perching in Nashville for a month of physical therapy treatments, we began our 1000-mile trip back to Minnesota.  Our first stop was Marion, Illinois, where we were guests on TCT Christian television.  Even though I was in a wheelchair, it was great to be back ministering!  On Wednesday, April 27, we headed off from Illinois, taking two days to complete the journey to the Twin Cities as my broken leg deeply protests traveling!  It just doesn't like the road vibrations-but it will gradually get better. 

We got into Minneapolis on Thursday afternoon and were greeted by our daughter LaDawn and grandchildren Dante and Myanna.  What a reunion!  We had not seen them since early January.  The kids appeared to have grown about six inches each!  They were a bit mesmerized by all of my "convalescent gear"-they had never seen Grandma Gloria "out of commission."  They got a bit tickled watching me do my "toddler antics" to get out of the bus and into the wheelchair.  Once I made it, I didn't have any problem finding someone to help push me, as volunteers were readily available!  Dante and Myanna came over to our motel and took advantage of the swimming pool, which they really enjoyed.

On Saturday, April 30, I spoke at the Mothers & Others Luncheon at Celebration Church in Lakeville, Minnesota.  The event was hosted by two of my sister-in-laws', Connie Lundstrom and Ronda Lundstrom.  About 250 women attended the luncheon.  I was hoping to be comfortably up on crutches by that time, but it just didn't happen-so Larry and LaDawn wheeled me out on the stage in the wheelchair.  I know I shocked a lot of the women, as they had not all heard the news of my accident.  At any rate, it was my first "wheelchair speaking engagement."   Once I addressed the broken leg issue and we had a few laughs, I continued on and had a wonderful time of ministry.  Eight to ten women raised their hands to make a commitment for Christ.  It was worth the long trip just to see women young and old come into a relationship with Christ!

It was fun seeing lots of friends and family that I hadn't seen for a long time.  On Sunday, May 1, we woke up to 28-degree temperature and light snow.  We felt like turning the coach around and heading south again!  That morning, we attended Celebration Church, where Larry's brother, Lowell, pastors.  It was a treat to sit and "drink it in" spiritually.  Their church is growing, and their staff and worship team are doing a great job!  We'll be back at Celebration on November 12-13 to celebrate our 40^th anniversary of both marriage and ministry.  We hope you will plan now to join us for this fun-filled event!  We'll have more details in our newsletter as November nears.  If you are not already receiving our monthly newsletter, please write to request it at: llmin@venturecomm.net

On Monday we moved out of our motel and into our daughter LaDawn's house for two days.   Then we had another special treat-our daughter LaShawn from Nashville came to Minneapolis on business.  Wow, what a treat to have both of our daughters and our grandkids around for two whole days!  We love every minute we can spend with our family.  Last night we ordered in pizza, and LaShawn played games with the kids.  It was a special evening!  Tomorrow we'll pack up and head off for home-oh, just to say the word is comforting.  It will be great to be back in our own house after being gone these long, action-filled four months.  I'm sure you agree that when you're hurting or sick-there's just no place like home! 

Well, it's been fun talking to you again, and we'll reconnect next week.  Thanks for all the letters and notes of encouragement.  If you enjoy "traveling" on the road with us through this weekly update, please take a minute and email us at llmin@venturecomm.net to let us know.  God bless you, and have a wonderful Mother's Day!

Gloria

Below you will find something fun for mothers and others to enjoy, in the spirit of Mother's Day!

"Profile of a Mother" by Rex R. Burns

Her ability to love is exceeded only by God's love itself.  Her love grows with her children, and it is impossible to tell the success or failure of her children by her love.

There are no depths to which a child can fall that will diminish her love and no heights of success a child can achieve that will increase it.  Her love is protective, tender, consistent, understanding, forgiving, unchanging, unselfish, giving, contagious, comfortable, and everlasting.  The nearest thing we can see in this world to God's love is a mother's love.

 P.S.  Below are some bits and pieces of letters that our dear friends and partners have sent.  We hope you enjoy them.  Also, throughout this trial, we have found that humor is a huge key to continuing to walk this journey with joy.  We have some free chuckles for you by clicking here.
 

Dear Gloria,

I was just at the women's luncheon this morning and heard you speak.  Thank you so very much for your truthful words of encouragement.  They couldn't have come at a better time.  I have a prodigal daughter and I needed to hear what you had to say today.  It was as if you planned your talk for me personally.  Once again, thank you so very much.

S Schmoe

Dear Gloria,

When I spoke with you over the telephone after you got out of the hospital, you sounded great.  Instead of me encouraging you, it was you who encouraged me.  We are praying for you and Larry.  We love you guys!  You are very special to us!

Pastor Bob & Kathy Stalcup

Ewa Beach, HI

Dear Gloria,

Our prayers are with you and I am interested to see what kind of ministry the Lord has in store for you because He never wastes anything.  We serve an awesome God and you are in His hands.

Earl & Alice Undem

Rogers, ND

We were saddened to hear of your injury.  You are precious to us, and you are a blessing to so many.  Our continued prayers are with you.  Your courage is an inspiration to us. 

Quinton Ziemann

Hazen, ND

Dear Gloria,

The moral of the story is, "STAY OUT FROM UNDER LARGE FALLING OBJECTS".  Since I am almost your age, I give you the advice… get some kid up on that bus.  Love you guys!

Rev. Harley & Linda Holden

Mandan, ND

Dear Gloria,

I am so very, very sorry about the accident.  What a blow!  The fall itself would be hard, but 240 pounds tumbling on you!  WOW!  Larry, you know how to find good landing!

Esther Holtzman

Dear Larry & Gloria,

We were sad to read your letter and went to prayer immediately.  You are two very special people to us!  Thanks for all the lives you have touched in Montana!  What a blessing you are and will continue to be!

Paul & Floral Goodman

District Superintendent of Assemblies of God of Montana

Just for you two…a special recipe to speed your healing!

A pinch of patience

A teaspoon of trust

One heaping tablespoon of faith

Two cups of humor

More love than you can measure

Stir together gently and serve with warm smiles!

When life closes a door, a window opens---jump!

Mike & Lora Ivankovich

Hamilton, MT

Wednesday, April 27, 2005

Is it possible that another week could have passed by so quickly?  I guess it is!  It was time to move on, as my bedroom mattress was molding to my body-ha!  The king-size bed had been my office and "conveyor belt" that has processed hundreds of letters and cards.  From that bed, I wrote newsletters and website updates.  It was my altar on which to pray for our precious friends who have written asking for prayer.  It was also my phone counseling center to call many people in hospitals, as well as countless others who are facing heartbreaking situations and cancer. 

Through this "broken leg journey," close to a thousand people have written, emailed, or called us.  There has been a familiar thread in nearly every one: hurting and pain.  Many have shared their "valley experiences" with us and encouraged me by their testimony of how God brought them through it.  The Bible tells us to encourage one another in the Lord and to pray for one another, that we may be healed. 

Last Saturday, Larry started gathering all the stuff that we had moved into LaShawn's home; we had transported our entire office out of the coach.  Again, we were so blessed to have been able to stay there while I took physical therapy.  Our son Donovan stays at LaShawn's also, so between his trips out of Nashville running sound and road managing, we were able to squeeze in some visits and grill-outs.  Donovan is definitely the king of grilling--yummy!   Monday morning, Larry packed the rest of our things into the already-overstuffed Suburban, and we headed off.  We were so thankful to Donovan for helping us to get going. 

Our first stop was at a medical supply store to purchase a portable wheelchair.  Our friends (the Sorensons) had rented us a wheelchair for a month, and I had hoped and planned that I wouldn't need one after that length of time.  Unfortunately, with the fibromyalgia that is causing extreme muscle pain, I find it necessary to use a wheelchair.  It was interesting to see Larry try to pile that into the Suburban.  Needless to say, there was only room left in that rig for a gumdrop-ha! 

The next stop was 30 miles north of Nashville, where we planned to hook up with our coach that had been parked there for the last month.  When we drove up to it, I could almost hear it say, "Where have you been?  And why have you abandoned me so long?"  We usually live in it as we travel for ten months out of the year.  Because of the battery, we weren't sure if the coach would start or not.  I was sitting in the car waiting for Larry to start it, when I saw a tell-tale cloud of smoke billow out of the back.  It was a great sight!  That smoke definitely made it look like we were in the Smoky Mountains.  Larry helped me up the steps and propped my foot up on a small cushioned stool right beside him in my "buddy" seat.  It was great to be on the road again.  I felt like I was finally where I should be, after the past two months of being laid up.  We were off to Illinois!  The trip was physically irritating to my broken leg-it just doesn't like all the bumps and vibrations.  I told Larry I need to convince this leg to toughen up, because it's an evangelist's leg and it has many years and thousands of miles still to go!  We arrived at Marion, Illinois on Monday evening and Larry unloaded me and all my paraphernalia into the hotel room.  That was a chore in itself!  I have truly seen a new side of Larry's love and compassion through this journey.  Last night I was thanking him again for being so extra kind and thoughtful, and he said, "I'm only doing what you would so gladly do for me."  That was so sweet!

Tuesday, April 26 was a milestone day for us--we had our first ministry event together since the accident!  We were guests on TCT Christian television in Marion Illinois at 10:30 a.m.  I was a bit nervous as to if I could get myself ready and look "alive and well"-ha!  Well, it all went great-singer Gary McSpadden was the host.  We have known him for over 30 years, and he used to do events with the Lundstroms.  It was fun to reconnect with him!  Gary shared that his wife is now battling cancer, but is still doing well.  As guests on the first show, we shared on home, family, and marriage during our interview with Gary.  Also, Larry gave a salvation message and we sang two songs.  After that, we taped three songs for tomorrow's TCT program.  Gary addressed my broken leg, as there was no way to disguise the big, black, ugly boot.  But that was okay, because I was just happy to be back in ministry with Larry--that's where my heart is!  I am so grateful that God has called us to serve Him together. 

Today, Larry is busy packing all my stuff into the coach again.  I hope nobody will be watching out the window, to see me "bumping" my way up the coach steps--ha!  We will be heading toward Minneapolis, Minnesota, where I will be speaking to a group of "Mothers and Others" at Celebration Church (Lowell and Connie Lundstrom's ministry) on Saturday morning.  I would ask that you would be praying for our safe travel to Minneapolis, and especially for added strength for me to make both the trip and the speaking engagement. 

Well, it's time to run-I always enjoy having this chat time each week with you!  If it is possible, please email us to let us know if you're enjoying this, too-we would love to hear your response.  You can reach us at: llmin@venturecomm.net (note the updated email address).  Have a blessed week, and please know that you are loved!

Gloria