Un-lurk Here

So, here’s the deal: I love getting stamps in my passport. They remind me of everywhere I’ve been and jolt me with memories of great places and faces.

I’d like to remember you. So, I would love you to stamp my page.

I understand one doesn’t want to log a comment on every post, but if you put one here I’ll know you visited. And that will make me very happy.

So, if you are a regular reader and want to make my day, please introduce yourself – I’d love to hear where you’re from, what you like about visiting here and just about anything else that you feel like sharing.

Feel free to stamp with words or your blog badge. Either works for me.

{ 138 comments… read them below or add one }

1 Bria Wasson August 8, 2009 at 11:17

Lisa-Jo!
How wonderful to see you and Peter and your beautiful family in these pictures! And to read about your life and catch up a bit!

2 Greg September 18, 2009 at 13:21

This is a great blog Lisa-Jo and a tribute to the great people you and Peter are.

3 TexasRed September 28, 2009 at 12:33

Love to de-lurk! And I gave you a blog award today: Splash!

4 Hannah October 2, 2009 at 10:31

Cuz, I have spent all afternoon on your amazing blog, catching up on all the bits I have missed over the past few months. I love your blog – it is so beautifully written, but more than that, I love the insight I get into your wonderful family that I miss so much. I love beign able to follow the little guys as they grow up, and to follow the lessons you are learning as you go. The only issue I have with you at this point is that everytime I leave here, I leave broody You are an incredible mom, someday I hope I can be as awesome at momness as you cuz. Much love, Hannah

5 ClassiclyAmber October 2, 2009 at 18:33

I’m loving your blog, too! And wouldn’t this be cool if people could literally stamp your page here? =-D I’d have mine say:

Amber from NC WUZ HERE on
10-02-2009

Hehee…that kinda mess takes me back~!

6 Kelly October 12, 2009 at 23:22

Hey, thanks for the comment about Piknic. Will have to try it. Hard to “try” much with 4 monkeys running amuck. I love your writing. It’s very eloquent and insightful. I hope my own can mature to occasionally be like that. Or, maybe I’m the one who needs maturing. LOL So if you see Mankato on your tracker that’s me. And thanks for the comments. I rarely get them but always appreciate them.

7 JustalasshikingwithJesus October 13, 2009 at 13:42

Love the idea of stamping your blog/passport. I am dropping in from Bowie, MD.

8 Stephanie October 17, 2009 at 05:49

Thanks for sharing your life in your blog. It’s great to read about the life & times of another globe-trotter. I too have lived and travelled the world over. I grew up in Iowa, USA and taught in Seoul, South Korea when I finished university. I spent the last 12 years in Australia and God took me through some very difficult times but I learned more of HIM. Now I am a newly-wed and find myself in another new place- Inverness, Scotland. You are right that HOME is not a place but a person…. we center our HOME on Him…. wherever that is. We long to be with people all over the world in places that we lived and left. That’s why heaven will be so great…. loving the LORD together with our fellow believers. Your writing is beautifully honest and refreshing. Thank you!

9 Jen October 18, 2009 at 17:01

Hi! I read your entry on incourage today and came to find your blog! So glad to know about you! Am also following you on twitter, I am @frelle

10 Jen October 19, 2009 at 10:25

Hi from Massachusetts! Just found your blog from (in)courage and can’t wait to read more.

Blessings!

11 Shaunie Friday October 19, 2009 at 11:00

Greetings Lisa-Jo,
I found you through (In)Courage and am delighted to have found you! I was born in Iowa, lived in British Columbia, Canada before I moved to California when I was 18. I frequently feel like a fish-out-of-water, but like you, have made a life and a home with a wonderful man with different pizza tastes than mine In fact, he doesn’t even like pizza! I really love your writing about the oh-so-worth-it, but sometimes trying gap between the fantasy in our heads and the real rubber-meets-the-road moments of life. I look forward to following your blog!

12 Kelli October 22, 2009 at 22:57

Hey Lisa-Jo!
I just found you through encourage. I’ve read through a few posts and added you as a blog to follow because I really love your writing! I’m looking forward to continue reading.
-Kelli

13 Melissa October 23, 2009 at 15:10

Hi Lisa-Jo!
I just saw you on my blogfrog so I popped over to see who you are. Wow, what an interesting history you have! I admire your adventurous spirit! I can’t wait to delve into your blog more. I will be coming back often to catch up on your travels and life. Thanks for stopping in to my little blog. How did you find me?
Melissa (born, raised & lived in the South all my life!)

14 Stacy October 23, 2009 at 15:41

Stopping in from Nashville, TN

15 Gpa an Gma Hamilton October 23, 2009 at 21:46

Used your new address and really got caught up tonight 10-23-09. Love your journal but especially the tribute to Mother-In-Law. We think both of you are “iron women” (comes from Gma) cause you excell at multi-tasking 24-7. Thank you so very much for raising our beautiful great-grandsons and even having some fun in the process. Better yet, keep teaching them about Jesus. What joy to see and read about how they are growing up so fast, incredible! We sure miss all of you so much but your blog really gives us a visit over the miles. By the way, our SKYPE is up and running – (hint) when you have a little time ring us up. Again, thanks for what you do to keep us close. Much love!

16 Ramona October 28, 2009 at 08:39

A new favorite blog for me!
Thanks- I’ll be back to read some more!

17 Tracy October 28, 2009 at 13:25

Just found your blog from Like a Warm Cup of Coffee and your guest post there. I adore what you wrote there… so many truths to it. Thank you for sharing! I’ll be back to read more.

18 harvardhousewife October 30, 2009 at 01:30

I look forward to reading your blog and exploring your adventures.

19 Circusof5 October 30, 2009 at 23:23

Saw your blog from Like a Warm Cup of Coffee, also. I was intrigued so I came to visit… boy am I thankful I did! The blog about our oxygen mask really hit home for me after the rough week I’ve had. Thank you so much! I’ll be back for sure!

20 Jen November 9, 2009 at 11:37

I found you through another blog – I can’t remember which one. The post you wrote last week “He sees me” was outstanding.
I am new but I am sure will be around alot more now that I have found your writing. You have a great way of putting things down. God Bless.
– Jen in Palatine, IL

21 Hillary November 15, 2009 at 04:49

Every entry is so true, but better said by you through your engaging style of writing. I will continue to check in here often from Alaska.

22 Closer to Lucy November 15, 2009 at 18:24

Found you through Harvard Housewife (HOW). Will definitely be back! Cheers from Murfreesboro TN!

23 Liz from ASP November 18, 2009 at 14:22

Hey Lisa Jo! So wonderful to read and catch up on you! You guys have been busy – sounds very exciting! I salute your beautiful blog and your amazing words here…you’re a very gifted writer! Are you on Facebook? I looked for you but couldn’t find you. God bless!

Liz

24 Zee December 5, 2009 at 16:35

hey guys i think i’ll be first here from Kyiv, Ukraine!

thanks for your blog and your writing. you’re good at it you should write a book sometime – gonna be a bestseller!

25 Boy Crazy December 7, 2009 at 12:51

We’ll see if this works – trying to ’stamp’ your passport.

26 Liv December 8, 2009 at 16:32

Can’t remember if it was from (in)courage or Like A Warm Cup Of Coffee. But I just loved your writing. And I’m South African. And have never left so I don’t own a passport but thanks for letting me stamp yours.

27 Janice December 14, 2009 at 23:37

Thanks for the reminder Lisa Jo, God used you to bless me today.

28 Crystal December 15, 2009 at 22:57

Let’s see…my name is Crystal and I was born and raised in Michigan (can I get an Amen!!?). I was in South Africa for a one-year internship with Thrive Africa (2008) where I met Alece who in turn sort of led me to your blog through hers.

29 Emily December 28, 2009 at 12:00

Officially unlurking! I am Emily and I have been stopping by here since running into you somewhere in the blogosphere after I started blogging this autumn. I appreciate so much your comments on my blog and I love to read what is happening with you! You have a calming and inspiring voice.

30 Jenny December 28, 2009 at 15:11

I just came to your blog through InCourage. Your post today really spoke to my heart. I’m looking forward to reading more.

Oh-I’m in Nashville, TN. Originally from the Chicago area, but I’ve been here in Nashville for almost 17 years now (wow, has it really been that long?)

31 Jennifer December 28, 2009 at 18:57

Popped in today from InCourage and am smitten! Must go tend to my boys now, because I’ve spent too long reading your posts. But I will be back again and again!
Jen (New Mexican-turned Mainer)

32 Tammy December 28, 2009 at 19:50

Some places are just too good to pass up, this spot is one of’em. I just love curling up with my computer and reading these posts. Right now we live in Texas, but have traveled many, many a time…overseas, I’ve lived in Okinawa, Japan and Bad Windsheim, Germany and several southern states in the the south plus Indiana & Kentucky from the Midwest. Hopefully, I’m stamping the last one here in TX, unless God packs me and family up again.

33 Paula Jean December 28, 2009 at 20:04

Hi, my name is Paula and I’ve arrived here through (In)Courage. Your post there today was fabulous (even though the experience that gave you the wisdom and insight to share with us wasn’t).

I live in St. Paul, MN and have been here for about 4 years – after growing up in Wisconsin, living in Oregon, the Washington, DC metro area and a little stint in Scottsdale, AZ. I really look forward to reading more of your posts!

34 Rachel E. December 29, 2009 at 00:41

Stamp! I’m here from (in)courage and enjoyed reading your post over there today. What a fascinating life you have! I live in Honolulu, Hawaii and work part time as a nanny.

35 Laura December 29, 2009 at 18:41

De-lurking! Love your site.

36 Jenn December 30, 2009 at 14:11

Hi Lisa-Jo,

I’ve been encouraged by your posts both here and at (in)courage, where I found you.

We’ve just moved to Virginia from Canada and it’s all a little new and different.

Keep up the great work!

37 Terri December 30, 2009 at 16:10

Officially de-lurking! I am a 50-something year old missionary grandma. I live in the UK presently, but spent 17 years in Indonesia where we raised our 2 children, who are now married and preparing for missionary service themselves. Have lived for shorter periods in the Philippines and Syria, and expect to return to live in the Middle East soon. I stubbled on your blog one day when I went from http://www.aholyexperience.com to (in)courage. I was intrigued by the title, feeling a kinship there. I enjoy your writing, your love for Him, and for your family. Thank you for sharing your journey.

38 Grace December 31, 2009 at 03:27

Love your site!

Grace from Johannesburg, South Africa.

39 eLisa January 7, 2010 at 21:21

Okay, I’ll unlurk. Love that idea. I came across you by Sarah Mae and (in)Courage. I love your enthusiasm and encouragement, so I plan on being by again.

I blog over at Extravagant Grace, a place for me to pour out my thoughts and encourage women in the Lord, as I reflect on the lessons God is teaching me about His grace and transforming power.

Blessings, extravagantly,
eLisa

40 AnnieBlogs January 8, 2010 at 15:48

I’m so glad we have found each other. Seriously. Like. So glad.

Passport stamp from Nashville, Tennessee. Done and done.

41 southeastcountrywife January 9, 2010 at 17:55

I have no idea how I found you but you now live in my Google Reader. I’m from Australia. I just read your posts on “Is there life after NO?” and they are really resonating with me…

42 Christy B. January 9, 2010 at 19:10

Greetings from the Nevada desert where we homeschool six children, run a few businesses, and worship a God who led His people OUT of the desert…our turn is coming.

I enjoy your honesty. I love real Christians with dirt under their nails. Thank you for your messages.

I believe I found you through (in)courage.

43 Nadia January 11, 2010 at 19:22

Hi there,

I’ve only now discovered your blog. I’ll definately come back- keep up the good work.

44 Heather @ CSAHM January 13, 2010 at 20:50

Hello Lisa Jo! This is my first time stopping by your blog. I found you on twitter. Nice to “meet” you!

45 notesofasexiststayathomefather January 13, 2010 at 21:04

Nice blog, I’ll steal some of your ideas for my own. I’ve traveled a bit, including to Jo’burg, and am now a stay-at-home dad. I’ll be back.

46 lcrystal January 14, 2010 at 17:42

i found your blog via (in)courage and have been checking it everyday since with all my other daily reads. thank you so much for your honesty and boldness. it’s so refreshing! -lindsey

47 Annette January 17, 2010 at 19:16

Howzit!!
Yeah..that probably gave it away hey?
I’m from Johannesburg, South Africa too. Although, I was born in Zambia, and grew up in Zimbabwe & UK too. And, my family & I are currently living in Houston, Texas. I call it ‘Our Great Adventure’.
I’m so glad I stumbled upon your blog, I’m grappling with the whole expat thing, and have been encouraged by your posts!! I’ll be visiting you every day now

48 Sorina January 20, 2010 at 02:38

Officially un-lurking.
And sending a stamp from Germany.
Thanks for your words/thoughts/dreams/hopes. Always nice to hear from another cross-cultural marriage.

49 Sarah R. January 20, 2010 at 10:03

i forget how i found your blog. but i have been so encouraged by you and your writing. i feel like we have so much in common and i feel like many of your posts express some of my feelings and thoughts.
i am a missionary kid who has been in Nigeria and the Netherlands. it seems that my whole life has been missing one place or another.
i married a man from a small southern town – which is pretty “cross-cultural” for me, lol – and for now that is where we have chosen to settle. (my parents still live in the Netherlands and my siblings in the northern USA.) i never really wanted to be a mother but god has blessed us with 2 beautiful boys (2yrs & almost 5yrs).
thanks for taking the time to blog.

50 Sharone January 22, 2010 at 14:01

Hi Lisa-Jo, I’m not sure how I found your blog (maybe through @mylestones on twitter?) but I’m loving it. I also have the traveling bug, although I’ve been basically Southern-California-bound for the last several years in grad school. And I lived in DC for a year in my restless youth and just fell in love with the city. I’ve been nosing around your blog and I can’t wait to read more.

51 Teresa February 11, 2010 at 05:00

Hi Lisa-Jo! I am stamping your page from South Orange County, California! I also twitter, most recently from my business, @socialpreneurs, or @teresalolvera. I created Society of Socialpreneurs ~ Where Socializing is Our Business a couple years ago and I feel like I have a lot of catching up to do! Anyways, nice to meet you!

52 Teresa February 11, 2010 at 05:02

53 Liberty February 16, 2010 at 14:36

Linked here from ohamanda and found your fabu blog. I’ve got 4 boys, on a farm in Middle TN. Consider yourself stamped from the.middle.of.nowhere. Literally. No one believe how far out we live until they come visit.
BLessings -
Liberty

54 biggerthanabreadbox February 20, 2010 at 17:56

Hi Lisa-Jo! So I’m tiptoeing into this blogging world and put a link to thegypsymama on my site. Hope you’re doing well!
-Abigail

55 jennyrain February 25, 2010 at 15:14

Landed on your blog from Alece’s site… I’m an avid grit reader and looks like I’ll be a new regular on your site… love your writing
Jenny

56 LeAnna March 3, 2010 at 22:45

I have to add my stamp! I’m LeAnna from Oklahoma, and I found you through in(courage) and immediately fell in love with your beautiful bloggin’ heart *gush gush gush* – you always have a word that touches the deepest places of a Momma’s soul, with Jesus as the center, and I love it.

57 Michelle March 4, 2010 at 02:54

*STAMP* from Geneva Switzerland (actually just across the border in France)

Have tracked your site for a while now, originally found thru fellow ND grad friends.

your writing is beautiful, your heart even more so…and I am privileged to know that first hand!

love and blessings,
michelle (mack) fiore

58 Susie Anderson March 10, 2010 at 14:47

No idea how I found you, (Twitter perhaps?) but ever so happy I have….your newest fan sends you sunshine and smiles from Texas……
Having lived overseas all my life, (including J’burg, S.A), and a busy mother of four….i can relate tremendously…thank you for sharing your beautiful life and words with us…..x

59 Ginger March 21, 2010 at 14:33

Hey! I am just getting to know you and would love for you to follow me on Twitter. Visit my bloggy to find out more and share a cup of coffee or two. Then we can chat and swap even more awesome stories.

60 Sue March 24, 2010 at 19:38

Hi, from Japan! I just clicked over from another blog, and really enjoyed looking around. Lovely blog! I’m looking forward to reading more.

61 Bekah S March 25, 2010 at 14:51

Lisa-Jo,
Ann just sent me over here…and bless her. I haven’t even had time to “dig” into knowing you. But O, I wish for all the time in the world!!

I am so curious where you went to school. Was it Messiah? I was born in Lancaster County, PA, just outside Harrisburg and Philly; I guess directly between them. Went to LBC. Graduated. Taught for a year in the states, saw my life fall apart. Began grad school classes. Started directing theatre at the university I was doing grad school. Was offered to come “start” a school in SA and here I am! About 2 hours north of lovely Pretoria in Limpopo.

I LOVE South Africa. Of course I have struggles on and off with the language and culture which is normal growing up one place and living somewhere else. But its lovely. Truly lovely.

Anyway, I was just too excited hearing about you being from SA to not comment right away!!

Bless you, today!

62 Becky March 25, 2010 at 15:28

I’m un-lurking officially! I live in Charlotte, NC although I am not originally from here. Born in England (dad was in the American Air Force). I have traveled quite extensively but there are many more places I want to go… Like South Africa!

63 Tracey March 25, 2010 at 16:12

I think I found you via Holy Experience–so glad I did!

64 Nish March 26, 2010 at 15:04

Stamping the blog with a hello from Portland, Oregon.

65 Melissa March 26, 2010 at 23:31

Can I be your first Canadian stamp? Hope so!

Your blog is great!

66 Tracy Compaan March 30, 2010 at 10:17

Wow. I found you through (In)Courage, which I found from another blog that had posted to it, and goodness, I can’t figure out how I missed you all this time. I can SO relate. I lived in the same state for 22 years, and then I met my husband. We’ve lived in South Korea for 3 years where son #1 was born, back in the states for 2 years, Turkey for two years where son #2 was born, and now we’re in Thailand. I am a God-fearing Christian, but this moving all over the world is not what I thought I’d signed up for, so I’m not always a willing party. However, I totally see His hand in every place I go. I just really struggle with the lack of stability. I am encouraged by your attitude and similarities, and look forward to following you. God bless a fellow sister in Christ.

67 Ruth Chowdhury April 2, 2010 at 09:26

My SIL just sent me to your blog that she stumbled upon randomly. I just started reading, and loved the post about talking to your son about Easter. I have an almost 4 yr. old son, a 2 yr. old daughter, and a 2 mo. old son. I’m looking forward to following your blog.

68 Alicia April 5, 2010 at 17:36

Hi!
My friend’s family moved here from South Africa, and moved back there 4 years ago. They are again in the States applying for citizenship, and once they get it they are going back to South Africa to continue their mission work, building up orphanages in a program they started called Emoyeni (http://www.emoyeni.org).

I just thought your “About Me” was interesting so I thought I would sent a post

69 Jessica April 6, 2010 at 15:37

Hi Lisa-Jo! I stumbled upon your blog and have been enjoying it ENORMOUSLY! I am also a foreigner from across the Ocean married to an American. We met in the US, went back to Italy (my home country) and got married there, went back to the States to finish school and went ahead and had baby boy #1. When he was about to turn one (he did so on the plane, en route to Europe) we moved back to Italy, where we lived for a couple of years, saved money and had baby girl #2! When she was 16 months old, it was time to cross the ocean YET one more time, to go back to the US and finish that M. Div. hubby had left hanging due to lack of funds. We did it, and also managed to add baby girl #2 while there. Next? How about recrossing the ocean, with our stuff, one more child, and have ourselves yet another lovely cross oceanic move? So we did that! And then, we added baby boy #2 once we had settled back in Italy. Now, you can see why I really like reading your blog: long, exhausting flights? Check! Children born on two different continents? Check! Pizza toppings? Check! Double wedding ceremony? Half check (we only had a US reception…) Not owning a TV? Check! Freaked out cable guy? Check! Except that mine was RUDE and told me all I neede to do was go to any supermarket and buy one. Imagine what he said when he found out we did NOT want a TV and that it was by choice, not because we had no idea where to buy one! Ha! Anyway, life on two continents with kids and multiple cultural tidbits… I find your writing very encouraging and funny! Oh, did I mention my own Prince Charming is from Michigan as well???

70 Larissa Smith April 8, 2010 at 23:36

Ok, I think I’ve been here enough to be an official reader. Hi. I was born and raised in East Texas, and am now a missionary in Arequipa, Peru. I’m pretty sure I found you through (in)courage, but can’t rightly recall at this moment…probably because I have two kids and remembering things is a luxury I’ve had to let go. I appreciate your perspective on the things that matter in life and your ability to help us all laugh (and/or cry) about the parts that end up kind of wacky.

Love the idea of un-lurking, by the way.

71 nikkimoffitt April 12, 2010 at 10:41

Howzit from the homeland (yours)! I am an Aussie who is living in Durbs after six years in Hong Kong. Its quite the lifestyle change I can tell you.
Our family is currently enjoying the South African slower pace and laid back lifestyle – the politics is also amusing – but I’m guessing only if you’re not from here. Enjoyed looking at your blog – always great to see the other side of the coin.

72 Tami April 12, 2010 at 22:08

Hi Lisa-Jo – Stamping your blog and officially un-lurking! Your blog has encouraged me through laughter and tears over the last several weeks since I began visiting. Thank you for sharing your life – it’s one well-lived (and well-told)!

I’m from Texas, loved living in Colorado, and now back in East Texas.
Peace,
Tami

73 @Dayngr April 13, 2010 at 12:33

Visiting you from Miami, FL. I’ll be following along from this day forward.

74 tcsoko April 15, 2010 at 09:30

Glad to know there is plenty of other geographically mixed up people out there – this is a stmp from Cape Town by an Irish girl married to a Malawian. The world can only be a better place when we learn to mix cultures and appreciate our differences.

75 Brown Eyed Mystic April 18, 2010 at 04:41: Hi tcsoko,

I like your view about the mixing and ’shaking it all up’ of the cultures and finally leading to a real “global village”! Great outlook.

-Browneyed

Reply

76 elizabeth April 16, 2010 at 15:41

Enjoying your blog–found it via Holy Experience. I’m in the DC area, too (Arlington, on the Orange Line)! Let me know if you’re in the neighborhood–coffee will be on me. Thanks for writing.

77 Sheryl April 16, 2010 at 17:36

I just found your site and LOVE it. Really. You write in a way I can only hope to some day. I love the voice that comes through. I’ll be back!

78 haven April 16, 2010 at 22:40

Hello. I stumbled upon your blog tonight and began reading. Your whole series on the year that God said no really has touched my heart. We went through something similar last year, we had lived overseas with the US miltiary for 4 years..4 years away from home and for 2 years before that we were 19 hours away from home in the midwest. We found out we were expecting while living in the UK and then hope and prayed for orders to an air force base right in our hometown. We got the orders! Then we had the baby…everything felt as if it was falling into place perfectly. We would have a new baby and finally be surrounded by all of our family and friends. Then the airforce and God said no….and 3 weeks before our port call date our orders were changed..first to Japan, then Minot ND, and finally to Oklahoma City OK. where we now reside. I recently was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and going through this battle without they physical closenss of family has been very hard on us and i have struggled with why God would take our orders away. But tonight..your blog opened my eyes…God isn’t a vending machine…and He does desire our holiness. Thank you..I have been wondering, not understanding why this all happened in the way it did. But I see now..I think I see that this thyroid cancer has taken all the strength I’ve ever had and I’ve had to learn to rely on His strength alone. My relationship with Jesus has grown ever so much in the past few months. And I don’t know if that would be the case had we ended up close enough to the love and comfort of family. So thank you!

79 Debra April 17, 2010 at 08:33

Just found your blog (preparing to launch a blog), I have a grandson now, but pray with several young women so I love the family stories (besides brings back memories). Attended 12 schools in 12 years of school, lived in 10 states (some 3x’s), visited all but 3 and since I worked for an airline (retired now), I have been blessed to travel to many places, especially in the M. E. After many years volunteering in international outreach, I now direct an inner city (Orlando) ministry centered around a community garden that offers descipleship, music, art and tutoring. We “grow fresh food with our neighbors,” showing God’s love through His creation. Your stories stir in me an an immense desire to pack a bag and go “somewhere.” Once, with 2 hrs notice, my 12 yr old packed my bag, Grandma brought it to the airport and was on a plane to Seoul. Miss those days. Thanks for letting me live vicariously for a bit. If your family visits Orlando, please come to our garden. We may even have rooms available in our 1925 era house.

80 Brown Eyed Mystic April 18, 2010 at 04:38

Hey!

Well, am a newbie, well sorta, on your corner of the web, and I like reading you.

About me, I am a writer, amd I love every piece of my life with it. I live in the land Down under – Australia – under the Melbournian sky, with awesome surrounds and lovely weather almost all the year round. I love every part of my day, well most of the times, and much of it is my hubby’s doing

All in all, I have a positive outlook toward life, and I love what you write as well, because I sense the “happiness sprinkles” in your life-smoothie too!

Love & hugs,
BrownEyed

81 april April 20, 2010 at 06:57

I’m totally the same: love to get the stamps in my passport! I married last June and therefore needed to get a new passport with my new name. I loathed doing it! But, my husband was insistent as it would help un-complicate future traveling as we live in Romania. Just got my first new stamp last week: Moldova. Would love for you to stop my blog when you have a chance!

82 jeannett April 21, 2010 at 23:49

Hi! Just wanted to let you know that I totally stole your de-lurk idea and put it on my own blog! Hope you don’t mind!

Loving your blog!

83 Brenda April 29, 2010 at 13:42

Hi Lisa-Jo,
I am so enjoying reading your blogs. Growing up with you in our childhoods, coasting by each other it has been revealing – in a good way – to see the real you. I will let you know if we are coming your way any time soon. We are planning to make some head roads to North Carolina, so maybe we can make a drive up to you.

84 Elizabeth Laryn May 1, 2010 at 14:16

Following you and adding you to my blogroll. I love authenticity, beauty, reverence, joy and laughter. Thanks for sharing your heart here. –Godspeed, Elizabeth…from across the states in Portland, Oregon

85 thegypsymama May 1, 2010 at 23:36: Lovely to meet you too. Thanks for saying hi – one of the best parts of writing is the shared conversation that it can evolve into. I love Africa, cherry blossoms, raising boys, and the written word. And I’ve been to Portland, Oregon and could live happily ever after in Powells Book store!!

Reply

86 shanskie May 1, 2010 at 22:27

Just found you via Ann Voskamp’s Holy Experience. So glad I popped over. The splinter analogy was so helpful. Thanks for sharing your heart…

87 wendy May 3, 2010 at 09:28

Just found you thru A Holy Experience, a link to your post about splinters to the heart.
I have 2 wonderful daughters with many splinters, as you say. from me. from my own upbringing. What kind of tweezers do I need to pull them out?
I think I would like to stay awhile, gleen some more, heal some more.
If you were to come visit, you would get a stamp from Denton, Texas. Home of Uof North Texas and Texas womens Uni. Just down the road from Dallas and Fort Worth. Denton is very big in the music arena. Midlake, Doug Burr, Sarah Jaffe, Seryn all come from here. Norah Jones as well.
I don’t have a blog, yet.

88 MooBee Mama May 3, 2010 at 18:24

Just delighted to find your blog! Thank you for how you encourage and bless.

89 Dawn May 3, 2010 at 18:44

OK I’m going to try this! Unlurking with my blog badge.

90 Dawn May 3, 2010 at 18:45

And it didn’t work. Ah well, I’m here from Eastern Washington (the real Washington, hehe).

91 thegypsymama May 3, 2010 at 22:23: I fixed it for you Love to see some blog badges on this page!

Reply

92 Julie May 3, 2010 at 22:30

WOW – that’s a lot of de-lurking happening up there!

I’m Julie — will be going to Relevant so I’ve been periodically lurking your blog to learn a little more about you! I’m from Holland, Michigan – home of the famous Tulip Festival (which I will be highlighting on my blog tomorrow BTW.)

Not sure what else you’d like to know — single 30-something and loves loves loves to travel.

Blessings!

93 eloranicole May 7, 2010 at 08:43

Hello from Austin

I was introduced to you via twitter, and sent to your blog via @prudychick. Love your words – love this blog. I’ve already subscribed.

94 Jennifer Mourikis May 11, 2010 at 00:45

Hello from a small town called Ridgefield, WA!

My name is Jen, and I accidentally stumbled across your blog about 3-4 days ago – and I am in love with this blog! I have been so overwhelmed with the love, grace, and wisdom that flows from your writing.
God certainly has blessed you with a special, special gift…and we in turn are blessed by this gift.
I can’t wait to read each day’s post!

Much love in Him,
Jen

95 Kim May 12, 2010 at 10:08

I am so excited to find your blog via (in)courage. I am an American expat living in Hong Kong with my husband and five children. How exciting to find another blogger who loves having her passport stamped and knows the complications of living “in between”. Looking forward to following your gypsy journal!
Love & Blessings from Hong Kong,
Kim

96 Maria May 14, 2010 at 22:42

Very interesting blog! Maria in Montego Bay, Jamaica

97 Lis May 15, 2010 at 20:10

Hello! Stopping by from Upstate New York! And I’ll soon be moving to Bristol, England to marry my English fiance! I think you have a lovely blog, very original and interesting!

98 Tricia May 18, 2010 at 22:44

Stamping your passport from Key West, FL! I just found your blog yesterday and I love it. I can’t stop reading your older posts.

99 Lisa May 20, 2010 at 09:04

I could get lost for days on this blog! I love your words and I am happy to meet you. How blessed you are with your little human burritos!
I will remember that when I wrap up my own burritos fresh out of the tub tonight in Massachusetts. Be well.

100 Laura May 23, 2010 at 21:35

A stamp coming from SW Florida!

I found your blog via Twitter & I’m really enjoying it.

101 Jenni in KS May 25, 2010 at 09:26

I found your blog this morning when I noticed I had a few new followers. (Puzzling since I haven’t written much lately.) One of them is another Jenni without a profile pic or blog of her own, but I saw she follows your blog and the name caught my eye. I just read your 5/24/10 entry and want to thank you for writing it. It’s just what I needed to read this morning. I’m adding you to my blog list and will be linking that post on Facebook and Twitter. If I needed to read it, maybe someone else does too.

102 Amy Danielle Smith May 27, 2010 at 15:24

Hello from South Georgia.
Your blog is very encouraging. And all us Jesus-followers with llittle flocks of our own need as much encouragement as we can get, yes?

~Amy Danielle

103 karen May 28, 2010 at 13:30

Found you through Holy Experience and am loving what I read!

104 JLI June 3, 2010 at 14:59

De-lurking! Was seeking some new “great reads” and Annette from An American Tale sent me your way.

Have only glanced thus far, but am loving what I’m reading!

I love to load up my reader with blogs that are written by women of faith!

Happily added yours today!

Jenn (http://paperphan.wordpress.com)

105 Crystal June 4, 2010 at 10:11

I’m sitting in my little apartment in Arlington, VA and happened to find the link you gave me a while ago to this site and the time to actually read! I love it! From the moment I met you I sensed our Father’s presence in you from your openness and honesty and insight to your genuine interest in talking with me. Thanks for being real. I’m sure reading these posts will be another way of hearing from Him through you. Looking forward to it!

106 Kimberly Anne June 5, 2010 at 10:22

Glad i found you! love this un.Lurk idea! )

107 mylivingpower June 11, 2010 at 11:14

Here’s a stamp from San Diego, CA. Found you through twitter and I love the way this site conveys your heart and journey! My journey is in one location but with “different people” every day – raising two adopted daughters with bipolar and two biological daughters… Used to travel all over the world and so excited to find a kindred spirit online and have a place to hear about the world from another mom!!

-Laurie
http://livingpower.blogspot.com
Encouraging moms with intense challenges, who choose to thrive anyway!

108 Heidi June 13, 2010 at 19:06

Lisa-Jo,
I came across “After God Says No” via a random email from Dayspring….and landed here… Was encouraged by your words re “After God Says No.” – And find your life story and travels fascinating! – God may have said No on occasion, but He’s given you a wonderfully, fascinating life that you are now using to encourage others.

From Philly!
-Heidi

109 Debbie June 13, 2010 at 21:58

I came across your blog also from the email from Dayspring. Keep writing – you’re a blessing!

110 Jamie June 13, 2010 at 22:07

Hi, Lisa-Jo!

I’m stopping by from Phoenix, Arizona after reading in(Courage) today. I’ve been so blessed by your writing!

I wish my passport had more stamps in it, only two so far, but I’m hoping for more! I’ll be coming back soon!

Blessings!

111 Bernadine June 13, 2010 at 22:16

Bahamas here, I flew in via incourage. Love your blog and your beautiful way of sharing your heart. I’ll be back to visit again.

112 Clarity T. June 13, 2010 at 23:32

Hi, Lisa-Jo! Thank you so much for sharing your testimony on God’s “no” answers! It was a blessing and encouragement to read. The Lord used it to minister to me today! God’s blessings to you!!

113 Tammy June 14, 2010 at 01:13

Lisa-Jo,

I, too found your blog through Dayspring’s email today. What a blessing! I am a bit of a “gypsy” myself, having lived in 9 states and visiting all but 2 (so far). So many times I got blindsided by a move and experienced some of what you describe in the “No” entries. Through it all the one thing that was constant was my faith and, I have to admit, questions about how God could have such different plans than I did. I am better for it all, more contented and happy than I ever was when I was just smiling and not admitting that I didn’t get it. He eventually showed me his plans and I imagine there may be more “no’s” in my future because we can’t let ourselves (nor can He let us) get complacent in our faith. I thank God that He blessed you with such wonderful “yes-es”!

114 Danielle June 14, 2010 at 10:07

I read you for the first time today and was very encouraged by your When God says No article. It is very inspiring and thank you for sharing your story. May God continue to Bless you and your family.
Danielle P from Pittsburgh, Pa.

115 theresa June 14, 2010 at 10:39

Thanks for very encouraging piece, When God say No.
I am a gypsy-mama with four girls from Malaysia.
God Bless!

116 Kassi June 14, 2010 at 11:30

Hello from Michigan )

117 alexsandra June 14, 2010 at 13:30

Hi from Windsor Ontario!
Love your blog…filled with wonderful and inspiring words!
Have you ever read this blog:
http://kristiapplesauce.typepad.com/kristi/
Kristi is a missionary in South Africa and your beautiful smile immediately reminded me of her!
God Bless you and your family!
alexsandra

118 edscali June 14, 2010 at 23:34

Hi from the Philippines! Read your blog from (In) Courage. Thanks for sharing your heartwarming and inspiring story.

119 Ingrid June 15, 2010 at 10:38

Your”Is there life after No, part 1″ was posted on Dayspring Devotions which I automatically get in my inbox. This took me to your blog to get parts 2,3, & 4. Thank you for sharing your story and the lessons you have learnt. You have a gift to communicate well by written word. I have been blessed to read these today!

from the big city of Toronto, Canada

120 Jamie June 15, 2010 at 15:40

That didn’t work. Let me try again!

121 Jamie June 15, 2010 at 15:39

Love this idea! So I’m stamping!

122 Katie June 15, 2010 at 20:11

Hi! I found you through (in)courage and am enthralled with your story! I lived abroad in Shanghai, China for a year with a toddler and love hearing about everyone else’s travels!

123 Lydia June 16, 2010 at 01:53

I understand your loss … the pain of loss is profound and you have expressed it well. It gives us courage to move forward into the unknown with God and trust His heart even when we cannot see His hand. It helps us to know that there are others out there who know our pain as well. Thank you.

124 laura@life overseas June 17, 2010 at 03:43

Hi! We are currently in Chiang Mai, Thailand, where my husband is directing a Christian orphanage for girls. We are homeschooling our three little blondes and hugging on lots of precious Asian girls over here. It’s proving to be one of the most gritty and most rewarding things we’ve ever done.

I have loved visiting here at your blog, and I will definitely be back again and often. Thanks for sharing so honestly and beautifully.

125 JD June 20, 2010 at 22:11

Love this idea!! Wanted you to know that I was here, found my way here from “We Are That Family”… )

126 Deanna June 23, 2010 at 12:14

*Stamp* from Canada I enjoy your stories a lot!

127 Mamadeedos June 29, 2010 at 15:42

Thank you for the beautiful word pictures you share! Have thoroughly enjoyed every minute I’ve spent on your blog today! I found you via a tweet from @Beautyandbedlam. I look forward to reading more…dee (SF Bay area-California)

128 Kelly @ Love Well July 2, 2010 at 16:57

It is a crime — A CRIME — that I have been friends with you on Twitter but haven’t clicked through to your blog until now. What a piece of art. I love your writing, I love your spirit, I love the God I see in you.

129 Funmilayo July 6, 2010 at 16:02

Lagos, Nigeria.

via (In)Courage.

130 Cari July 7, 2010 at 22:12

Lisa-Jo,

I have spent the past couple of hours scouring your blog stories…thank you for sharing your life with us. Beautiful…just beautiful!

131 Lisa July 10, 2010 at 15:26

Was so refreshed in reading When the Walls are Closing In recently. It was like water to my thirsty soul!

Thanks,
Lisa

132 Emma July 13, 2010 at 02:28

Hello! Just poking around your site in Sydney, Australia. Enjoying your posts on marriage
Blessings!
Emma

133 Lydia July 16, 2010 at 10:40

I just stumbled here, I can’t even remember how!! haha, but I love your blog already and will be following you! I’m from Washington State, I live on a little island, and stay home with 2 young boys. I traveled quite a bit before I got married, and I love to read about other people’s travels

134 Hannah Ruthie July 16, 2010 at 16:22

Hey Lisa-Jo!
I love those passport stamps too and just had to leave one here for you! I went to South Africa a couple years ago with Thrive Africa and fell in love with the country, her people, her land. I will definitely be coming back to keep reading.
I’ve been blogging for about 2 years over at Joie de Vivre. It’s always great to meet new blogging friends!
Hannah Ruthie

135 Gretchen July 22, 2010 at 13:18

I’ve just started reading your blog regularly, after being directed here frequently by links from Ashleigh’s Tweets.

And how could I not love it…with the postage stamp theme?! Looks like we both have a thing for letters and postage stamps.

Looking forward to reading more…

136 Jena July 22, 2010 at 22:44

Just am amazed at how moved I am by your blog. Thank you . It’s beautiful.

137 Jena July 22, 2010 at 22:46

Oh. I should have not been posting and talking to my husband at the same time.
I am from SE Tennessee right on the GA border.

138 Sarah July 23, 2010 at 16:29

I just found you blog through some friends on Twitter, and am thoroughly enjoying reading through your posts. My dad is South African, and my mom is a Brit… I grew up in various countries in Africa as a missionary kid, met my hubby at boarding school there, we went to college here in the US and got married in South Africa half-way through college. Our families are both overseas (Kenya and South Africa). We now live in Dallas, and I’m currently in the middle of trying to get my green card through marriage to a US citizen… such a hassle!
Anyways… I just wanted to say that I love your blog because it feels like a piece of home… knowing that someone else is living the gypsy life, and I love that your faith shines through it all

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