Merry Christmas 2007

Fort Myers Masters's Commission - Video

FMMC -Multiplied from Nolan Tarantino on Vimeo.

Enjoy. The latest working over here in Fort Myers...

More thoughts coming soon.

God is good

This week has been encouraging for Nolan and I. God has done some great things on our journey to get back to Europe. We heard from the church we had been attending in Michigan and they decided to start supporting us quarterly starting in 2008. We feel so blessed to have them behind us. They support their missionaries for as long as they're missionaries, so that's exciting. Also we met with a some great friends of them family this last week and they also decided to support us monthly, as well as Nolan's sister. It's just exciting to see people come behind us and join us by investing into the ministry we are apart of. We are just believing God to continue to give people a heart to support what we'll be doing in Europe.

masters commissions in Europe.

I got to talk to two of my friends in two different masters in Europe. My one friend is helping start a masters commission in Estonia. This year they didn't have all they needed to go full time so they have one weekend a month where they are meeting to worship, teach, and talk together. It sounds like it is going really well and the feedback has been really good.

It's exciting to hear how God is moving and how masters commission is reaching out into new places and changing peoples lives.

Missions Week.

This week is First Assemblies annual missions week. There's lots of events going on highlighting missions and the heart of missions. There are missionaries coming in to speak and tour of missions where rooms are decorated to represent countries. I have been looking forward to it, since our hearts are in missions, these events hit pretty close to home for us. In some ways it makes me anxious to be there and struggle with the waiting. My heart has only been broken even more and reminded of the darkness that lives in Europe. There is a sense of urgency on my heart, because we are not promised another day.

I want to ask you to pray. Pray for Europe to be filled with hope and for the Masters Commissions in Europe as they are raising up leaders and ministers. Pray for us that the rest of our support would come in, in ways that can only be from God, so that we can go and help fulfill the need throughout Europe.

Care Facilities Video

Life back home has started once again in the realm of video and websites. I really have enjoyed everything I have been able to be apart of. Alex Q and I worked on this video for the church which was shown last week. We have two more videos getting ready to be created, so I will post those when they come out.

Enjoy:

Care Facilities from Nolan Tarantino on Vimeo.

Nike Bauer

This week and I am living down in Marco Island.... I was asked by my cousin if I wanted to make a few extra dollars this week. So I said sure, why not! Well, I am helping work Audio/Visual for a conference sponsored by Nike's hockey division, Nike Bauer. ;) Even though I am not into hockey as much, it's sure been great seeing new products that aren't even out yet! I have really enjoyed being apart of this.

I think the best part though is that this is their national event and so the European Division is here and it's been so easily to spot the Scandinavians! It really makes me miss being back there! I can't wait! There has been a few times where the main speaker has tried to get the audience pumped up and when he tries to get audience participation you can always tell which side is the European side... They are always the quiet ones with less emotion ;) That's not a bad thing, just a observation! I have only seen a European go crazy when they are at a futbol (soccer) game!!!

just another game.

So tomorrow night the Indians are playing Boston. One down, and here comes the next fight! I am really looking forward to the games in this series. The last series, against New York was great! My dad and I realized how much alike we are, and Hannah I think has seen a new side that I am not sure she really likes ;) I love getting into these games! For some reason I feel much calmer against Boston. I think I just really wanted Cleveland to beat New York!!! ;)

this is way overdue!

      

Sorry friends and family. I hope you haven't lost hope in us keeping up on our writings. We've been in Fort Myers a little over a month now. It is so crazy to think how fast time is going. Nolan and I moved into our apartment that needed lots and lots of work. We cleaned it up and painted it, and it is amazing how much paint can do. Things have calmed down a lot and we have gotten settled.

I got a job at starbucks last week. When we were moving here that is exactly where I said I wanted to work and then when we got here it seemed nobody was hiring. But in God's perfect timing I got a job there and I love it! I'm still in training but I can make all hot drinks. I work with great people and I really like how they run the whole company. No wonder they do so well. Anyways, that's what is keeping us busy for the time being. We have gotten some great contacts to people and churches to help us raise support, so be praying for that.

Talent Show - Sturgis, MI

moved.

Well we've done it. We had everything packed up by 11 friday night and planned on getting up at 3:50am the next morning to take the 20+ hour drive down to Florida, but instead of alarming us at 3:50 it went off at 6:50. We figured God just decided we needed some extra sleep to take the drive. So we got off to a late start but took the whole drive in one stretch and arrived here at about 4:30 this morning. We're pretty tired, but glad to not be in the car anymore.

We'll post more later (maybe even video) and pictures. The little kids gave a wonderful talent show Friday night before we left and my wonderful husband took tons of pictures. I was so proud of them.

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Abe's Trip South

Sweet 16. Tribe!

2.00AM we finally pulled back to our house here in Sturgis and the morning work commute was quickly approaching, but to me that didn't matter. What a night it was... Actually I am not sure I could of handled any more stress than I had last night. Yes, this drama all came from watching a baseball game, but not just any baseball game. It's the Cleveland Indians!!!

The last time Hannah and I went to watch the Indians they won and had 16 hits in the ball game. Now, for those who don't track baseball, that might not mean a lot but that is a great offensive game by professional baseball terms. So in keeping with Tarantino tradition the Tribe once again put the sweet 16 mark on the board to beat the Detroit Tigers. We most likely spent more money on seats than anyone in our row, but it was worth every penny to see what we did last night. We watch an incredible game, but one that had me sweating like non other.

When we first got to the field we had an older usher man seat us. For 2 or 3 innings we sat in these seats enjoying a great view until two men came to tell us that we were sitting in his seats. At first I defended myself because I knew we had the right seats... Unfortunately I was wrong and we had to move a section over. The section we moved to was actually better than the one we were at so I was pretty happy. Just as we sat down at our new seats the inning ended and inter-inning entertainment began... all of a sudden over the PA they announce that section 123 row 28 is a winner... that was our row!!! I have never won anything before especially at a sell out 40,000+ game! We won a cd and a Starbucks gift card! It really made the night fun...

Nothing made the night better though than Cleveland winning the ball game. I was definitely the only cleveland fan in my row and the only one in my area clapping and standing when they did well.

Take a look at the pics! It was truly an amazing night!

Updates

There a few things worth noting...

Missions

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We can share that after this month we will be 100% finished on our cash budget! What an excitement for us! What does that mean now? Well, we have raised one of our two budgets ;) We are in the process of finding monthly supporters to help finish our Commitment Based Budget. This budget is actually what keeps us alive financially when we are overseas. We are just over 40% in support. For more information head over to this page... Let us know if you are interested in helping in this vital area!

Wedding Pictures

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In this digital age everything should be easy to come by right? Well, it's been over a year and we still don't have any wedding pictures in an album to share with people when they come over! We are bad I know! But this week we finally created a book, thanks to iPhoto ;) We hope to see them in the next week or so. I am really happy with how it turned out! I am just hoping now that the pictures come out as good as the preview! So when you are around next time we can actually sit down together and look over them!

Florida

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Next Tuesday is our last day at work! Bittersweet I think it will be. That will then leave Hannah and I with two-three days to pack up all our belongings up here in Sturigs, MI (which thankfully is not very much) to then begin our 20+ hour drive back down to Florida! Just in time to hit hurricane season straight on! We already have an apartment which is right across from the church. We are both ready for new life in regards to having more friends and people around, but I am not sure that the Florida beaches will compare to our life on the lake here! But, I think we will manage with the beach sunsets that we get. I guess those aren't so bad! It could be a lot worse... ;)

Cedar Point

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Two weekends ago Hannah and I and the Bukowski family were able to head over to Ohio to enjoy the theme park known as Cedar Point. For those who have not been to this park you NEED to go! It's awesome if you enjoy thrill rides. But beware, if you truly want to enjoy the park you need to go more than one day! We went and only took on 4 rides! Yes, that is right! Now, granted we took the park on a little later than we planned, but still, the last time I was there I was only able to hit up 7 rides. You really need to give yourself some good time to enjoy the park!

Danish Friends

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We were able to spend some time with Priscialla\Johanna\Stephen not to long back here at the house! It was so good to have some Danes around us. It was so good to see them and spend sometime on the lake. God was so good to us the day they were able to spend with us. Both Hannah and I took off work so we could be with them, but the night before it just was pouring down rain and that next morning we still had rain going on. That morning Hannah and I just asked God to give us good weather. Well... as the morning was passed, we were wanting to head to the lake and the sun just started to shine. The whole day we were down at the lake it was perfect. The moment we headed back up to the house for the day the clouds and rain came back! It was such a good day! The girls definitely took some sun!!!

Baseball Playoffs

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Ok, so tomorrow is the big day for the Cleveland Indians! I will always be a die-hard Tribe fan! Look for pictures! Best of luck to them!

Tribe Love.

   

   Ok, so lately the biggest issue Hannah and I have had to deal with is my lack of discipline when it comes to passion for the Cleveland Indians! For years I have been following the Indians, and each year has it's ups and downs. This year I have been able to watch most games that they play since dad and I went together and bought this package that lets you watch games anytime/anywhere.

   Well, when the Indians win my life is flying high, but when they lose... I guess I must show my attitude around the house ;) Anyways, I don't do so well on showing patience when I watch so Hannah is trying to help me become better disciplined. Lately the Tribe haven't done as good as they should be, and the season is coming to an end soon.

   Right now they are fighting the division against Detroit Tigers. And since Detroit is somewhat close I bought Hannah a present and we are going to a game next Wednesday ;) So... fingers crossed that they pounce on Detroit ;) Or else that is going to be one long drive home!!!

Birthday for Abe

We wanted everyone to know we celebrated Abe birthday this week! We aren't exactly sure of his birth, but we think that this week would be a good time to celebrate his presence to the Tarantino Family ;) This week has been a busy week for the little guy. His grandma came for his party as well as his second and third cousins from Ohio and Florida. He has had plenty of entertainment around the house!

Hannah is continuing to improve her cooking skills and this is what she came up this past week. Man was it good! The first night we had some cake she gave us good size pieces which were too big, so last night the portions were a little more bearable ;) Plus a side of is [danish for icecream] ;)

Our time in lovely Michigan is coming to a close. We will soon be on our way to Florida. I really don't want to share the days because I am sure time will fly to fast if we do. I am sure we will be posting more as times draws near.

Random Pictures From This Week

Happy Anniversary to us!!

Today is our one year Anniversary. It's hard to believe that it's been an entire year. One year ago I was at the church about to walk down the isle. We've definitely been blessed our first year. It's been amazing.

Wedding Pictures | Videos | Honeymoon Travels

Jesus loves the little children

In the past I've written stories about a certain boy at the daycare, named Elijah. If you've read them you've noticed that there is something special about him and that he at such a young age is aware of so many things. Well a few days ago he said to me, "ms. Hannah, when I was a little baby my dad gave me a teddy bear." and I asked him if that was so special to him (his dad is absent from his life now) and he said yes. Then I said that God is kind of like his dad and he said all in his stuttering, "I know. Ms. Hannah, the other night when I was was was lying in my bed God he talked to me and he said he said, 'I love you Elijah', that's what he said". I believe him too. It's so cool to see faith in this child.

staff meetings

I've been back to work now for four days and it has been a interesting week. It's so good to see the kids again, and they all wrote me welcome back cards. There are tons of little babies that Nolan has been watching on the other side and he's so good with them. On Friday we had a staff meeting during the 'rest' time. My husband was the only one who colored his paper entirely in purple, red, orange, and pink through mixing during the staff meeting. I wish I had pictures of this doodling, it was crazy.

Today we had a mini birthday party for one of the little girls Shelby since we missed her birthday while they were gone. I'll have my doodle husband put some pictures up.

Soul2Soul

Ok, so our seats weren't too shabby at all ;) The night started watching Studio 60 on the way to Grand Rapids ( the show is great ). We finally made it up to our destination with good time then heading off to Jimmy Johns. [ my first time ;)] After some JJ, we went to go sit down and we started following everyone until a nice usher told us we had a special place to walk in through! Woohoo!

Anyways... they opened their set with Snow Patrols "chasing cars" and it was just purely amazing. Faith shoots up on one side, then Tim comes slowly up and they jam singing this song to each other. It was super. The whole night was just a blast. Almost 3.5 hours of music playing!

I took the pictures and Hannah had fun meeting all the people as they would come by us! I am glad we took the seats we did. Thanks ebay!

time.

Well I've left my Aunt and uncles and come to Costa Mesa for all the wedding festivities. Time is going quickly. There are always more people you want to see. Last night we had rehearsal and then dinner at Buco di Beppo. They brought the spumoni out on plates with knives to cut... made me miss Europe. I'll have to post pictures later, but today we're going to get pampered a little bit with manicures and pedicures and then a big meal.

I have to go pick up my dress. On the flight over here, my shampoo, even though was in a separate bag inside my suitcase, exploded and ONLY got on the dress I'm wearing for the wedding. What are the chances? So it's getting cleaned.

You can't beat the weather here. The flowers are beautiful. It's great to be here.

Convoy of Hope

I was on a friends site earlier this morning and I saw he had this video. I thought I would share thanks to youtube. Check out Chris site to read more about them and the work they will be doing in Europe as well!



By the way, for those who don't know Michael, he is the missionary we will be working with in Europe.

Familia de Tarantino.

Created with Paul's flickrSLiDR.

Summer Fun with Grandma.

They said it would never happen again. It must of been a few years back when grandma and grandpa Pancoast where last up here in Klinger Lake. They told us that it was the last time they would be able to make it back up to Michigan. Who would of ever guessed that once again my grandparents are back up at the lake.

Just a minute ago I was out in the lake with everyone... and grandpa was telling us that it was back in 1927 that he first came to Klinger Lake. He was around 7 years old. It's been almost 3 generations up here at the lake. It's a God thing that both of them even made it down the 78 steps to the lake and to see them get in the water is just priceless. Today is a great day!

For the first time in many years my whole family is up here. I think I better get back out in the water with everyone. Hey, let me take a picture of my family out in the water with my awesome rocking Macbook ;) . Yup, that's them out there! We are missing one important person.... Hannah. She is having fun out in the California sun and we are enjoying the great Michigan sun!

That picture of me and grandma... well, she look at me really funny, completely confused on how that black book thing took a picture. Heehee!

life in the oc

This morning my Aunt Lisa, two cousins Erika and Ethan, and I went to breakfast in San Clemente. The resturaunt was called Fishermans, and we sat out on the patio where the waves were crashing just in front of us. To the left were the boogie boarders and to the right were the surfers. As we ate I was just remembering going surfing with my friend Jessi, who is getting married this Sunday, and remembering the easieness of it all.

We'd go to a surf beach called San Onofre where there are mostly long boarders and where the old surfer men spend their days in the waves without a worry. It reminded me of a part of California that I love the most... the "no worries" part.

It is a saying californians say a lot and a mentality that lives amongst this state. I'm not saying they are stress free, if you've driven here you know that's not true, but they do seem to have a grasp on a worry free life than any other place I've lived. Just a few thoughts that have been going through my head today. It's been a restful day.

The Global Missions Project

This post is mainly directed to those I have meet this past week in Springfield. I was just randomly on the mackie today and I came across a web designers profile and one of the sites caught my eye... I saw missionaries on it. So, right away I thought I would check it out. I thought I would share the link because it seemed pretty cool. And maybe for those who want other options for blogging might want to check this out!

The creators.Missionaries.in was created by Keegan Jones and Jeremy Boles – two web developers from Springfield, Missouri. One day at a local coffee shop, the idea of Missionaries.in was born. A few mocha lattes later, Missionaries.in opened its doors for missionaries around the globe.

If you sign up for it, be sure to let us know. I think we might do it. Networking is always something I enjoy.

Ciao.

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The Global Missions Project

]

another sunny day in california

Well yesterday we took the 7.5 hour drive to chicago where nolan dropped me off at the airport and I traveled out here to the best state in the world... california. I got a good nights rest and it's a beautiful day outside. My aunt lisa and I are taking the kidos to a birthday party today and then getting some baja fresh. Just wanted to say I'm here safe and sound.

people.

The night is ending... Springfield is hours from being over.

The trip that was once dreaded is now a bitter sweet reality that it is over. I will miss the people the most. The faces have become a friendly site to see every day. Two weeks gives just enough time to really realize you wish you had more time to be around those who you have so easily grown attached too. And there were quite a few you wish you had more time to be with.

I think Hannah and I just pray that we do well on keeping in touch with everyone we have meet.

To the friends of PFO, CS 07... It's been an honor to meet you all. I will do my best to keep in touch. Our paths will cross again. I promise ;)


love.

Time has gone very fast here at school of missions. I think it's going to be sad to go, we've made a lot of friends here and there has been many good conversations. The woman who is processing out stuff to go to Belgium is really young and we've connected some since I've been here, but last night we went out for coffee and it was just a refreshing time talking about all kinds of things and issues.

Tonight we went to a Mexican restaurant with some others that are here with us (two Brazilians) and there was a couple in a booth not too far from us. Our friend went over and started talking to them and he said something about being missionaries and the woman started saying how she has a demon of death inside of her and all this stuff. They prayed for them, but then they came over to us and said thank you and started talking again about her life and how she has two sisters, who are married to pastors, that don't talk to her... she's the black sheep she says. Eventually she started talking about anger towards God and depression, but she knows everything about God she says because she's gone to church for 10 years. It's so obvious that she's seeking for truth. Maybe she's become numb? Or maybe there is some bitterness towards her sisters? She was not open to changing. It's amazing how Satan can keep people in such tight bondage that they're afraid to leave it. That was an interesting night. Hopefully it planted some seeds for both of them. It's only God who can change someone.

Tomorrow we'll be commissioned. Then we leave 2am Saturday morning to take me to the airport.

Prep

We spent this last weekend visiting my cousin Stephanie, her husband Paul, their twin boys Gabe and Ben who are turning five in November, and their 2 year old Lib. It was so refreshing and relaxing being together with them for a couple of days. It's the part of my family that I have always wanted more time with but geographically strained to having more time. Paul is the senior pastor of a church and he gave us an opportunity to share with the church there about what we're doing and they took up an offering for us. Everything that has been given to us has been a huge blessing, so we're very thankful. Plus each time I speak I'm stretched a little more and I know that's good for me. The first service the video we wanted to share didn't work all the way through and so I was thrown off and nerves overtook my body and my speech. The second service was a lot smoother. It's all a learning experience.

I was talking to a friend today about what it's been like to be here at missions school, and what I find is that right now Nolan and I are completely focused on this call on our lives. There is NOTHING else that we're doing right now. So, even though it seems completely inconvenient to have to be here for two weeks, just being able to focus this hard on our call and mission, with absolutely no distractions, is worth it. We've been able to talk through a lot of things and individually think through a lot of things that are preparing us for what's ahead.

On top of that the people we are meeting here are incredible. If it wasn't for the fact that I can't bare to be away from the daycare kids much longer, I would actually love to be here for the whole five weeks, just to spend more time with some of these people. It's been cool to see who God has brought us into conversation with while being here. One of my biggest dreams is to start creating short term missions trips for around Europe. While being here I already know several places where we can take the trips to, and I found myself in a conversation with a guy yesterday who is doing exactly what I want to do for Europe, here in the US and he wants to take what he's doing to Europe, so it's just cool how God brings things together. I could go off on that dream forever, but I'll save it for a different post.

Pray for us while we're here, that God would continue to prepare us for what he's called us to do.

springfield. day06

Today has been very inspiring. Good teaching. Good people. Good times.

Tonight I meet some of the people here at Starbucks. It's been a REALLY long time since I have been in that type of environment where the conversation was about the Holy Spirit ;) I actually really enjoyed it too! It's been good to be here. Listening and watching has been very inspiring.

I really believe that the faith Hannah and I have had for raising our funds has expanded. We are wanting everyone to know that JAN08 is when we are wanting to be out of here! What does that mean for those that read this blog...??? We need your help in getting to Europe. Seriously, send us an email through this site if you would like to talk or ask questions. Hannah and I are more than excited and confident in what this next chapter is holding and we are learning to become more and more responsible for the call that has been given upon us and we need you to help us get back to Europe!

Check out some areas we are going to be updating. ( some areas are updated ) Take some time to just check out the Missions Status text and FAQS for our calling if you would like more information.

I wanted to share this video as well. Please pray about supporting Hannah and I.



Donate Online | Automatic Credit Car Donation | Download Faith Promise Form

Springfield. day05

Nolan has been doing much of the talking thus far and I had a great night so I wanted to share a little bit...

We took a small trip to the Target around here, which is a little lacking because they have 6 Walmarts and I guess the people prefer that to Target, anyway... when we got back to the campus our contact person to the assemblies of God, Joani, was sitting outside and we started talking and it turned into a very in depth conversation about what we're learning at this point in our lives. One thing I value most is the ability to be open and honest in conversation and through talking to her she was able to point out God's hand in our lives and me in hers as well. I just love those conversations that are edifying and that's what it was. It makes me wonder why it doesn't happen more often. I think I tend to, when I'm being open, become negative and that takes away from the uplifting experience when you're sharing with someone. It's important to find that balance of being honest yet being uplifting at the same time. It's conversations that recognize the things God is doing and are able to build our faith in a way that we cannot do on our own. It's the great part of being in a community of believers.

springfield. day04

• Last night it was hard to fall asleep. While Hannah was in the dorm area for the evening I was playing volleyball outside for 3 hours. During those 3 hours I exposed myself to multiple beatings by the other team, especially one of the girls who served rather hard! My arms are still sore!
• Today was had sessions on taxes and insurance! We must say the taxes information was a little over my head! Too many terms I had no clue what they meant. Hannah said that it made her sick to her stomach listening to it all, a little overwhelming!!!
• Hannah is excited that tomorrow she is having breakfast with the first speaker we had this morning. This lady had lived in Brussels for 12 years with her family and she was speaking on inter-cultural "stuff" ;) and it was right up Hannah road! So she is pretty excited.
• Tonight my dad and I purchased the MLB.TV subscription so we could watch the Cleveland Indians anytime we wanted. Tonight they did us a favor by winning!!!
• Ran out of our Krispy Kreme dozen box! Serious issue there!!! ;)

Missions UPDATES ;)

• On the right hand side here you can see we added a quick links to supporting Hannah and I. As we are receiving new ways of being able to support us we would like to share that.
• On a support note, we have updated our MA Status page and you can see how things are going. We are so thankful for those who have supported us already and we would be honored if you would join with us in helping us reach Europe with the hope that we are sharing.

springfield. day03

Today was our first regular session you could say. When we received our schedule they were telling us how this year they were trying to give more free time to everyone to get to know each other and all. Well, we sure did have a lot of sessions still ;) Lots of information today! And I think it's only going to get heavier! But, I must admit that it's been really good to hear.

Hannah even mentioned today that the common age of those attending this thing has been pretty young. I am amazed at how many are going overseas to serve for a year or two. Everyone hear is pretty darn passionate too about going to their places to start serving. We've been talking to a few people today and it's just great listening to what people are saying. Refreshing you could say.

Tonight we were able to play some volleyball outside the room here and even Hannah played, which was amazing for those who know her, she really isn't the get dirty-competitive type, but she was out there playing hard ;)

For those who are reading this that our supporting us or are going to, I really want to share gratitude to you all. Right now Hannah and I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for your being apart of this journey together with us. Listening to peoples stories and hearing the speaking today just makes us want to get back to Europe. I truly hope we will be able to share with you everything that God is doing. It's such a priviledge to be able to be able to take part of it.

Sorry that there are no pictures, but silly me left the camera battery at the house. Thankfully it is in the air now and should arrive soon so we can post some pictures ;)

springfield. day01

We made it to the HQ of the AG, here in Springfield, MO. We stopped last night to break the trip up a little, so todays drive was about 6 hours.
Our roomates next door are going to northern China to teach English. They graduated South Eastern some years ago and they actually knew Jebeles and a few other friends from Chicago area, so it was nice talking with them at dinner tonight.

Hannah and I drove the strip here where the school is located and made it to Krispy Kreme! I am so excited!!! We also took a little stop by the mall to get some "more" clothes for Hannah ;)

Not sure where we will go for church tomorrow, but we would really like to go to Lamberts. I hear it's the place to go!

Sturgis this week, Springfield next two weeks.

Full report from Hannah coming soon....

Highlights:
Wedding
Friends
New Friends
San Fransisco
Baseball Game
Muir Woods
Good Laughs
Bad Traffic
Decent Gas Prices
Amazing Scenery


Trip Details:

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Our trip was so enjoyable. The wedding was absolutely beautiful, up in the mountains with nothing else around, and you could see the stars at night. I'm so thankful we had the opportunity to be there and support this couple who is very special to me. It was also special because Nolan got to get to know some people who have been very important to me and the journey God has taken me on, so now these two worlds have collided a little bit and that is a great experience. Words can't express what I feel, but the pastor said a few things during the rehearsal and ceremony about how marriage is about having the privilege to serve the other first.

After the wedding we got to spend a day in San Francis, which is a place I have always wanted to visit, and Nolan as well. It was so beautiful and a wonderful day to go, it was just really cold in the city. First we went hiking through the redwoods and got a view of the mountains. Then we took a tour around the city and saw the golden gate bridge. There were just so many places where you could see a birds eye view of everything. We feel very grateful for all we've experienced on this trip. To be honest I didn't want to leave at all, but that's being selfish. I have to just trust God on where he leads us.

Califorinia Here We Come

Well, we are off to wedding #1 in California this summer. It's 3:44 in the morning and everything is about in its place. Abe is not sure why we are up so early. I really wish we could take him. Now a two hour drive to the airport!!! And that reminds me I need to go get some more directions!

Well... we will post pictures soon! We are back in the mid west again early Monday morning! We sure took the early/late flight, but you can't beat that for less than 2 bills roundtrips. I guess we won't complain too much ;)

Miss everyone!

Brighton Chapel

Last night Nolan and I spoke at our church here in Michigan, well actually it's in Indiana, Brighton Chapel. It's funny how God's timing worked. This last week we had four really amazing friends here visiting, as you can see from the previous post, and we had done a lot of remenising and digging up old videos and pictures of the times we had in Europe together. Because of this experience a lot of things became fresh in our hearts, our past experiences of what we were doing in Europe and how God uses that because fresh in our minds and hearts, and so speaking this time became quite a bit more emotional. Especially for our emotional Nolan, which he doesn't always like, but I know God uses that to touch peoples heart and get them to grasp a piece of how God feels. I think it was a great experience and I know God will use it for his glory. There may have been future Masters Commission Students there, who knows? We cannot limit what God can do. The theme that kept coming up in what we were saying is how God has taken all these pieces throughout our life to bring us to this place, which makes it very obvious that this is what we are supposed to be doing. We had someone come up and want to support us herself on a monthly basis, which is awesome, and they took a love offering for us, which we didn't expect because they are already supporting us. So God is good once again.

The SummerLove Gang

Canon.

It was about two years ago... I was sick laying in bed when I found out the my camera was stolen. Ever since then I have felt like something was missing. I really enjoyed the camera and learning how to use it better.

It wasn't so long ago my father in law told me that one of the areas they wanted to invest into Hannah and I as we go back to Europe was to buy a camera for us. So for the past few weeks I have been searching and digging to find the best prices for a camera that I could call my own.

Well as of this week I found the camera that would be our new traveling mate. The Canon 30D is her name! We are so excited to have this back with us and now I am just waiting for the camera bag to come as well so I can make sure it's always taken care of. I found the 5 Million Dollar home (what a name) from Crumpler is a nice addition.

To those reading who have any connections with Canon Lenses please let us know as we will be wanting to add to the camera soon.

We will post pictures soon from this week with our friends here at the lake.

MA Update

Just a little note that we have updated our progress on the MA Support page. We receive our statement around the 10th of every month. I must say that the days coming up to that are always so exciting. This process has really been something Hannah and I have really clung onto. It's one thing to dream and talk about what our lives could be like, but to actually see the first destination getting closer and closer gets so exciting.

Please keep in prayer that we will continue to see monthly commitments as that is the largest part of our budget. We need to have $3,512 in support every month. That will be the biggest hurdle for us to overcome. Just ask favor for Hannah and I as we continue to share our heart and vision of what we feel God calling us to do. We know the support will follow.

You can now support/donate online. You can donate by downloading the commitment form here or donating online directly here.

(make sure to take note of the account number : 2943447)

Buffalo

I read an article by Sara Groves today called, Your Spiritual Buffalo. Here's an excert from it that I wanted to share.

"I'll never forget the scene in Dancing with Wolves where the sioux are preparing for a buffalo hunt. It has been a long time since they have seen any buffalo, but thanks to a tip from their new friend (played by Kevin Costner), they have located the herd. Now there is a great deal of anticipation as they prepare for the hunt. They spend the night dancing and dressing, preparing their horses and hunting supplies. The next morning, they creep on their bellies quietly to peer over a ridge where they expect to see hundreds of buffalo grazing in the field. But instead, to their horror, they find hundreds of buffalo carcasses strewn across the prairie.
In the silence, the contrast is profound. In the sioux culture they make use of every part of the buffalo. The bladder carries water, the bone makes a tool, the skin makes clothing and covering for tents, and the meat will sustain an entire family. There is a good use for everything. Whoever has done this has taken the best part of the buffalo for himself, and has simply left the rest to rot. There is not enough time to make good use of all of the dead buffalo, no way to possibly redeem it. "

She compared this to our spiritual lives, which I found very convicting. The Sioux us every part of the buffalo for something, but how much of God do we use and are we only keeping the best parts for ourselves and leaving the rest to waste? I know I'm guilty.

childlike faith

My last post was about a little boy from the daycare center named Elijah and how he has such a curiosity about God. Well last week I asked his mom if I could take him to church with me and she said it was ok, so today was that day. It was so awesome to expose him to this. When we picked him up he was bouncing off the walls from excitement, it was like he had just eaten a bucket of sugar. He just kept giggling and I didn't see anything but smiles the whole time. When we got there he said something about how this looks like where they have weddings, so you get the idea of how much he has been exposed to church. He asked me if the worship leader was God and my favorite was during worship since he didn't know the songs he would just grab onto certain words like love and sing his own song, like I love you over and over again. I know he's young, I just pray these seeds go deep down in him and I know God will make those seeds grow.

July 29th - 2007

One year is quickly approaching the New Tarantinos ;) Hannah not too long ago asked what we were going to do for our anniversary. It got me thinking becauseI really didn't know what would be fun in the area we where living.

For our honeymoon we traveled from Fort Myers up the East Coast to cities such as
[+] Myrtle Beach, [+] Baltimore, [+] NYC, [+] Cleveland and back home. Along the way we did a few baseball games and that was a lot of fun! Even Hannah was able to enjoy it ;) But the one thing we didn't do which we had planned was to catch Rascall Flatts in concert. Since we missed that and with a little inspiration I thought of one great idea!!!!



No, not Rascall Flatts but the first best thing before them!!! Tim McGraw and Faith Hill!!! Oh yeah!!! They are playing just an hour away in July and that is where we will be celebrating our one year anniversary!!! I think the experience will be pretty fun. Plus you see that blue catwalk... well that is where we will be!!! Just a few rows from the front and right next to it, so hopefully we can take a few shots! It's going to be fun either way.

Hannah said this is something she has always wanted to do.

Spawning

Today was great. Before work started I was able to get out and fish for a bit. I was able to catch 5 fish in about 30 minutes. Right now the fish are moving closer to the shore because the water is warmer and there they can spawn. As I was drifting I could see the beds where the mother bass where at... and they were HUGE!!! I will have to get back out there to see if I can catch one!!!

Today I was able to get a Rock Bass, Large Mouth Bass, Small Mouth Bass and a big Blue gill.

Elijah

There is a little boy in my classroom named Elijah. Some of you may have heard me talk about him before. He is such a special kid, 4 years old. He doesn't know who his dad is and for a long time now I've just been praying for him that he would know God as his Father. Well at some point we talked about who God is and how he made us and has a special plan for him, and ever since then he has been asking every question under the sun about God and stuff to do with God. Once he told me he thought Doc from the movie Cars was God.

Last Friday his mom told me that he's been asking lots of questions about God lately and asked me if we talk about that at the daycare center. I just told her that I have talked to him and other kids talk about it and he asks a lot of questions about God. He's so curious about this stuff and I've had some really cool opportunities to talk to him about things. I really want to bring him to children's church because I know he would soak it all in. He's got a big part of my heart. Today he just about crushed me. I was talking about my schedule this summer and how I'll be gone for some weddings and he had overheard me saying this so he says "Ms. Hannah, I don't like you going away. I want you to stay here." Yea he's going to be a hard one to leave.

Idol Gives Back

We've been watching American Idol some this year and as most of you know this week was the big Idol gives back. I'm just very moved by what they're doing and with as big of a show that it is they are actually wanting to give something back. I've never heard of a show doing that. I just believe that this should be exactly what the church should be doing. At some point in the show Ellen said it only takes 30 dollars to provide so many shots for kids to help against malaria. I can't remember exactly what example she was using at that time, just remember, but I felt convicted and so we joined the idol gives back and donated 30 dollars. Then I was on the verge of tears through the rest of the show because this need of our world has really struck a huge cord in our hearts. I would encourage all of you to find a way to participate. We can really do so much and each of us has a responsibility.

Idol gives back

We've been watching American Idol some this year and as most of you know this week was the big Idol gives back. I'm just very moved by what they're doing and with as big of a show that it is they are actually wanting to give something back. I've never heard of a show doing that. I just believe that this should be exactly what the church should be doing. At some point in the show Ellen said it only takes 30 dollars to provide so many shots for kids to help against malaria. I can't remember exactly what example she was using at that time, just remember, but I felt convicted and so we joined the idol gives back and donated 30 dollars. Then I was on the verge of tears through the rest of the show because this need of our world has really struck a huge cord in our hearts. I would encourage all of you to find a way to participate. We can really do so much and each of us has a responsibility.

Childlike Faith

You learn to listen to those who have gone before you. You try to the best of your ability to do what "seems" simple to do... and when God does what he intended to do, it's awesome! I heard this saying, "what God orders, he pays for." Isn't that awesome!!!

Hannah said in an earlier post that the church we spoke as was small... we knew that going into it, but we just felt that we had to go into that service the same way we would go into a service that had a few thousand in it.

Well, today we had a check in the mail from the church. Before that letter was even open Hannah and I were more than thankful for the opportunity we had, and we knew that God was going to take care of us in this whole journey. That checked from 23 people turned out to be $1,468.

In that moment, you just want to sit back and just be in awe of God's goodness. So good!

and for some.

spring fever

The weather here has been awesome!! Yesterday it got over 80 degrees. It's my favorite time of year. I love watching everything begin to bloom. When I was running this morning I could see all the buds coming on the trees and bushes. It's so exciting seeing everything come back to life. The kids at the center love it too because we're outside almost all day. Nolan even got sunburnt on Saturday. Can't wait for summer now!

churches.

Nolan and I spoke at our first church this last Sunday. I have to say I was very nervous before, but while I was speaking and Nolan was speaking I know God was really the one speaking. It was the church Nolan's grandparents went to while they were up here, so they already felt like they had a connection to us. It's a really small church, but I have no doubt that there was great purpose in us speaking there. It was also great to have some practice in sharing our vision and backing it up in scripture. All in all it was a win win.

Our next step is speaking at my parents church in Eau Claire Wisconsin this weekend. We will be apart of a missions event, so we won't be the only missionaries there, but we have an opportunity to share from the main stage and that's exciting! We're so encouraged by the response we've seen from you all and the doors that have been opened.

Spring Sunset

MCE Promotional Video

Coming up in May, Michael McNamee, the missionary we are working directly with in Europe will be given the opportunity to speak to a few hundred missionaries at a banquet. He asked if we could create a simple little video sharing what's been going on inside of Europe and where we are heading. I just finished the video this morning and I thought I would put it up here to share as well.

Missionary Update: <b>32%</b>

Well once a month we receive a statement updating our status as Missionaries. Hannah and I for the past few days have been constantly checking our email to see when we would receive "the email"... Well this afternoon we did! BUT.... we had no clue how to read it ;) After some time we were able to reach the offices to try to figure out if someone could explain how to read the statement.

So what did we find out??? Actually not too much. We found out that a new system was being implemented so our statement wasn't even totally complete. We were given a few numbers and so with what we have we have updated our MA page.

Our biggest need will continue to be monthly support. Please continue to pray for us as we have two churches to speak at so far this month. We really need your support not only financially but support through prayer! Keep checking the site for more information and please leave comments for us. We love to hear from you!

April Showers bring...

Snow and cold???

Last week was so nice in Europe. Spring was in the air. When we left MI there was also a feel spring. When we flew back home we were told how amazing the week prior was... but that night there were clouds rolling in... those clouds not only brought some rain but it has left this morning with this outside my front door:



And not only that my Cleveland Indians had their home opener yesterday only to have the game cancelled after a few innings. I could never image playing baseball in that type of weather. Rain, Pure Heat... sure... but almost white out snow trying to hit a white ball??? No thanks! Watch out for those Indians this year... we could be cheering for them in October this year!!!



One other little treat... there is different types of Candy in Europe. This one I met a few years ago and when we were back last week I had to buy it for a friend. They also have the not for boys bar as well... I think my cat is interested ;)

Eulogia

Ephesians 1:3 "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ."

The word blessed in this verse comes from the original greek word Eulogia, which means, to praise, celebrate with praises; to invoke blessings; to consecrate a thing with solemn prayers; to ask God's blessing on a thing; pray God to bless it to one's use; pronounce a consecratory blessing on; of God; to cause to prosper, to make happy, to bestow blessings on; favoured of God, blessed.

God has used His powerful mouth to call us by name and speak blessing over us. His speaking is action, for God's speech is energy released. I got this all from a study I did this morning and it's really moved me because Nolan and I have found these words to be true on a very consistant basis these days. He has spoken a word of blessing on our fund raising that is being put into action. Just recently a man from around this area just happened to be down in Florida and looked up Nolan's grandpa because he knew he had connections to this area. Grandpa was talking about us and the now he has invited us to speak at his church this month on a sunday morning. It's amazing to see the things God has planned for us and I know he will continue to open doors for us during this process. The thing that's even more exciting to me is that this is only the begining. I can't imagine to see what he will do once we get there. God is always speaking blessings over all our lives, to cause to prosper, blessed to ones's use, favoured of God. Praise be to God.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Being back in Copenhagen was almost to good to be true. It had been over 8 months since we last stepped foot in this great country and it was such a great time being with old friends again. We spent as much time as we could with our adopted Danish family, the Kornbeks. Anytime we can make it to Denmark we make sure they are in the country so we can be with them. We call them our European mom and dad and brothers and sisters.

I tried to take some time to myself and I took also with me Martins camera which I don't know how to use very well but I decided that I would take a trip to Roberts and shoot as many shots as I could along the way. Roberts was and still is my favorite coffee place in all the world! Starbucks can't beat this place. The pictures you will see are shot during the day so you really can't get the feel for what this place is really like, especially when night arrives and the only light you find there is by candles.

I actually hear while I was over there that a Starbucks is on the way. I never thought Denmark would let a chain come in like that, but I am pretty sure Denmark won't be Starbucks strongest income. I am not sure a chain can grab the feeling that so many cafes hold inside of Copenhagen. One of things we miss the most is the ability to go to a cafe at any point in the day. There is never a point in the day that you find a coffee shop empty, people are always there ;) It's great. Yet, you do wonder if people ever work!

Hopefully you enjoy the pictures. And hopefully I will soon be able to get the camera I used taking these pictures. the Canon 30D ;)

MCE Conference 2007

Starting to get some pictures up here... right now the first section will be dedicated to a few pictures from the MCE Conference held in Southport England last week. Click to view.

Missionary Question of The Day.

Today I came across a good question... and I thought I would share just in case you might have this question too.

When do you start supporting the Tarantino's if you would like to support as a monthly commitment. Do you start today or when we go to the missions field?

That is a very good question! The answer is on our Information/FAQ section here.

Europe Bound

For those who are receiving our support letter we hope that you enjoy our website here. We are trying to keep it up with pictures and video as much as we can. We just wanted to encourage everyone to keep checking out our site.

We are heading to Europe on Friday and will be back on April 1st. During the trip we plan on taking many pictures and I hope to create a video or two and will post them on here for everyone to see.

Please pray for us on Friday night as we travel from Chicago to London! We have the late flight at 8.55. So when you think about it, keep us in prayer!