Part I:2012 in review ....Part II to follow

Greetings from Texas, where we are taking a well deserve R & R period before we start out on our 2013 adventures.

We will be breaking this blog into 2 separate postings as we want to share what transpired with us and our travels in 2012 ...then in part 2 we will share where you may be able to see the Longs in 2013, as it stands now (subject to change, since our plans are  always set in jell-0).

We last reported here that we had just finished our NOMAD period 3 project at Lives Under Construction (LUC) boys ranch, Lampe, Mo. (near Branson); a facility that is non-denominational.  We then traveled into Belle Plaine, Ia and share NOMAD work with the ladies of United Methodist Church in Chelsea,Ia. we were in the BP area for 10 days before heading down to Coralville Lake, for a 6 day stay near the dam. Spent some time visiting with Judy's sons; Andy and Rich.

We then moved the Endeavor over to Clarks Landing, the Corps of Engineers campground at Mountpelliar, Ia, (along the Mississipi River, near the Iowa Quad-cities). While there we celebrated John's brother Doug's birthday along with several  of the LONG cousins and spouses. 
 Then headed East, with stops in Geneseo, Il and  a visit with Judy's friends, Mary and Dick Kintigh, then onto Metamora, Il. for a brief visit with John's Aunt Mae and family.

We then headed for Camp Woodmont, in Georgia, (with plans to be their kitchen managers for 12 weeks during the summer) {we stayed 4 weeks, as it was NOT as it was presented to us in the interview} we did however get to take in some of Civil War battlefields that were nearby.

We returned to Iowa in mid June, taking a position again with ADVENTURELAND  theme park. John was an assistant manager at River City  foods area, 7 different types of food was prepared and served in this area, this kept John really busy, as Adventureland was terribly short staffed all summer long,,.

Leaving Adventureland on Oct 3 and returning to LUC to assist with their annual homecoming/booster activities  over the weekend,,,before heading onto Coffeyville, Ks to get Christmas product ready for delivery from AMAZON . com ...John worked as an Inventory Specialist in the I.C.Q.A. area while also serving as the CHRISTIAN RESORT  MINISTRIES,Intl Chaplain for all the other RVing community working for Amazon.com, making over 27 home visits, 4 hospital visits, coordinating 2 Bible studies, and he was called upon to do some grief counseling for all Amazonians, when one of their fulltime employees passed away suddenly.



  We might add here that on the trip over to Coffeyville from LUC, John had the misfortune of adding some unwanted 'beauty marks' along the ENDEAVORS passenger side, along with taking out the electric steps into the coach. 

Our Nationwide/Allied took good care and immediate care of the problems.




While in Coffeyville, Judy was again able to get her much needed pain relief medication that she was unable go obtain for the previous 90+ days... we praise God that she was able to return to being active again with out pain.  Judy spent many of her days picking up pecans (from under the 6 or 7 pecan trees not far from our campsite). She probably gathered around 100+ pounds (which she is still in process of cracking and picking out)  ANYONE WANTING SOME, I am sure she can arrange some.) Judy also opened a shop site on ETSY.Com  (JudysJems3) in order to market her handcrafted jewelry bracelets,necklaces, and earrings.

When we were in Iowa we made a few trips down to Indianola to listen to some great bluegrass music, we also were able to make the trip down to Mount Pleasant, Ia for the annual OLD THRESHERS reunion (always starting the Thursday before and continuing thru Labor day) .

We also have a little more sad news to add, we lost our beloved calico cat Pebbles in January due to illness. So we added a young rescue from the shelter in Livingston to replace her,,introducing  Mr. Patches,
 


Be watching for part II in the next few days to see what and where The Longs-On the road will be headed and doing in 2013.

We also want to take the time now to thank all of you who support our efforts thru prayer and encouragement by either phone calls, notes on facebook, or emails. Also we want to thank the mission committee of Christ United Methodist Church, Belle Plaine, Ia. for their past monetary support.

On the road for Christ: Judy and John Long along with Bamm-Bamm and Patches,the traveling cats.

NOMADS Project at LUC completed

Gary and Avis Norton, Art and Sue, Bruce and Mary Jane Bohall, then John and Judy Long

Judy enjoying her work in the LUC greenhouse

Judy and I recently completed our 3 week NOMAD project at LIVES UNDER CONSTRUCTION BOYS RANCH at Lampe, Mo. (near Branson) our NOMAD Team of 4 couples accomplished quite a few minor projects that needed attention,,,The main thing accomplished was the inside finish work on one of the staff residents homes,,, we repaired a major floor leak under the shower in the master bedroom, the ladies painted trim boards for the windows and doors in the daughter's room,they also cut and placed rough sawn  trim around the living room, hall way, master bedroom, utility room...an additional breaker box was added in utility room and wiring diverted to it, There was a light and exhaust fan installed in the boy's shower area and built a small wall to close the shower in for privacy ( by John), then the ladies also put up cedar trim in 2 boys bedrooms upstairs. 2 ceiling lights were installed in their rooms ( by John) Judy spent the 2nd day working in the Green House planting things for future grounds beautification, then on the 3rd day Judy helped plant garden vegetables ,, she was almost in heaven getting to play in the dirt... then the last  day of that week and the last 2 weeks,she went over to the Trading Post (resale shop; operated by the LUC Boys ranch volunteers; as a major source of their funding) Judy was sorting and cleaning donations,, John went over to the Trading Post the final 2 weeks where he worked on doors that had bad draft areas and moisture entering,,,, he cleaned up a badly rusted door (with a new to him product) and replaced the threshold, he also planned out and installed an awning over the entry way ( the awning had been donated to the Trading post about a month earlier, and it was the exact measurements that was needed to cover the entry) John also worked on 2 additional door jams and weather proofed them along with 7 window seals...He was also able to get the Air handling unit operational for them ( it never worked after it was installed, the man who did the work had become seriously ill)
Health wise Judy held up pretty good (BUT is hurting some today along with a bad cold) John is doing well just pacing myself to avoid getting overtired,,, we also had the opportunity to be the luncheon speakers at a neighboring UMC here in Iowa on Saturday about NOMADS and what we have done in our 17 NOMAD projects the last 5 years...

ON THE ROAD AGAIN----FINALLY!!!!!

Hello all of our friends and family.. just a little catching up for those that haven't been following us on FACEBOOK: John N Judy Long;

As we last left you Judy had just gotten home from her arthroscope surgery on her left knee, well that didn't work so good. She had Dr. DeLoach do a partial knee replacement... so since Judy was going to have too have rehab time of 6 to 8 weeks and then probably have a partial knee replacement done to her right knee, John returned to working for Securitas ,as an overnight security guard at a gas pipe manufacturer,in Liberty, Tx (45 miles, one way) He worked 4 nights a week. He worked there 3/8/11-3/1/12. Then re-retired. The 1st knee was done on March 23rd, IT WENT REALLY WELL ,, then the right knee was partially replaced on Aug, 26th, it went good, but the rehab was a little slower,,,,

Then in November John was having annual physicals done , a colon exam was done first (just a couple minor polyps removed) they were benign. then the next week he had a prostrate exam and 12 samples were taken, there were 2 that had signs of cancer,,, so John began 44 sessions of radiation treatments,, (went every weekday morning at 7:45 a.m...just finished on March 5th) and now he is cancer free .

We stayed at the R&L Ranch at Rainbows End,just outside of Livingston,Tx. from 12/24/10 until 10/20/12 doing house setting and other odd jobs for our friends the Wiehrs. Of course we enjoyed being able to play Pinocle 3 nights a week and Hand and foot a few times a month,

Oct. 20 th we moved the Endeavor down to Cedar Grove RV park just outside of Liberty (so John wouldn't have a 42 mile trip each way to work.. We stayed there until 1/20/12 . We found LONE STAR LAKES RV PARK at New Caney, Tx which was only 6 miles from Kingwood, where John was going for his radiation treatments (besides being a little less expensive)

SO NOW THE BREAKING NEWS ; John and Judy has received an offer to be the Kitchen Co-managers at CAMP WOODMONT in Cloudland , Ga. we are to start there on May13th. (which is our 6th Anniversary) and work until Aug. 3rd.

So this is our tentative schedule and travel plans for the rest of 2012.
Our Sunday School class is participating in a mission project at Lon Morris College, Jacksonville, Tx we have plans to be a part of this group next week, then we return to Rainbows End until April 1st at which time we begin traveling to Lampe, Mo, LIVES UNDER CONSTRUCTIONS BOYS RANCH where we will be a part of a NOMADS Team. April 2-19th. On the 20th we head out for IOWA,,arriving in Belle Plaine (Franklin Park) on the 21st. We will be in BP until the 26th when the Endeavor moves down to the Corp of Engineers Campgrounds on Coralville Lake.. we will depart there on May 3 and relocate to the Cof E Campground, along the Mississippi River just outside of Montpelier, Ia (near the Quad Cities aka Davenport,Bettendorf, Ia and Rock Island. Moline Il,) we will be staying there while visiting with friends and family until May 8th .
We then plan on visiting friends in Geneseo, Il. and stay over night somewhere near Metamora, Il on the 8th. We will then start our Journey to WOODMONT; Cloudland, Ga. We should arrive there sometime either the 12th or 13th of May. Then we depart for Iowa, after camp closes on Aug,3,,,we are going to be playing tourist on the way back to Iowa taking in Nashville, Tn.Louisville, Ky and maybe even a Nascar Race.

We then have another NOMAD project at WESLEYWOODS, UMC camp and retreat center near Indianola, Iowa beginning Aug27th thru Sept.13th..this will also allow us to take in OLD THRESHERS Reunion at Mt. Pleasant, Ia during Labor Day weekend.(LIFE IS SOO GOOD) ...


Then AMAZON.COM ; Coffeyville, Ks, as requested that we return there to be the CRM Chaplains for the RVers, working in the distribution center for the Christmas season, John will also be working in the plant (probably in the Inventory Control /Quality Assurance dept. nights again) We then will be leaving Kansas on Dec 23rd.. probably for Livingston to check in with Drs. and renew license plates and registrations for the Endeavor and LIL' Red.

This is what has been and the things scheduled for/with the LONGS -ON THE ROAD and we want to thank each of you for all of the prayers, calls, notes, support and encouragement...BUT MOSTLY WE WANT TO THANK JESUS FOR SEEING US THROUGH THIS PAST YEAR AND OPENING UP THESE OPPORTUNITIES OF SERVICE FOR HIM... we hope to see as many of our friends and family that we can as we pass through your areas....

LOVE You all and JESUS DOES TOO.


John and Judy and the Traveling Cats Bamm Bamm and Patches (we lost Pebbles in Jan'12 to sickness and had to have her put down. RIP Pebbles)

LAST 2 WEEKS IN REVIEW

Greetings to All:
Sorry we haven't posted any follow-up on Judy's surgery on Jan.26th.. but we just wanted to see how it was going before we shared.
The surgery on the left knee went really smooth according to Dr.DeLoach He said that once he had the camera in there, he found that the damage was not as bad as anticipated. He did take out some floating cartilage and smooth out some of the damaged bone on bone spots. Judy was well taken care of the first 4 days as she remained either on the couch or the recliner in the living room, while John took care of all the essentials of daily living in a RV.
Judy started getting the "Rooster" shots (this is a lubricant) that replaces the cartilage, which last for a year. This is a series of 6 injections, of which we have now completed 4 of them.
She says that she still has some pain when she turns or climbs steps. But walking on level ground or walking in a straight line is less troublesome then before the surgery.
She is going in again on Monday to get the 5th shot, then wait for a month the 6th and final one. IF things ARE NOT any better at that time then now, we go to plan "B" which is to have a partial knee replacement done on the outside portion of her knee. She is leaning towards that already -- but we will see what Dr. DeLoach says at that time and recommends.
All of this Doctor business hasn't slow us down too much as we have been playing Pinochle on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday nights. Judy only missed 1 night. Then the last 2 Thursday nights we have been playing "Hand and Foot" cards. We also have taken a short 1 hour car ride to see how that went, we traveled down to Conroe, Tx to check out a potential WORKAMPER position. (More on this another time, please pray that GOD shows us what we are too do.)
We have heard of several persons whom we have known over the years or loved ones of friends that have gone on home to JESUS.. we have been praying for all of those loses. John cousin ALICE is still in University Hospital in IOWA CITY having NOT a good stay--needs lots of prayer for return strength and better health return. We also have
Judy's Brother-in Law CHUCK that is going in tomorrow to have his knee operated on similar to what Judy had done. (he already has had a complete knee replacement done on the other knee.)
We are still praying for continue good health and continue guidance for our fellow CHRISTIAN RESORT MINISTRIES CHAPLAINS: especially JACK and KAREN GREGORY along with DON AND LAVON BAKER, and BOBBY AND KAREN JOHNSON all of whom are ministering to snobirds down in the Rio Grande Valley.
We also ask that the LORD allows our friend Dr. J Stinson to have a health problem free interim pastorate in Missouri.
That the NOMADS are having safe and trouble free projects and then safe travels next week.

As always we are grateful for all the love and support you all show to us as we travel and minister in our special way. We really love to hear from you all, be it by phone, a comment here, on FACEBOOK/John N Judy Long, or lovely old fashion note in the USPS . We are very appreciated of those that find us worthy of monetary, support which allows us to continue.
Right now it appears that we MAY be staying in TEXAS at least until mid to late April.

We ask GOD to bless all of you and PLEASE warm things up for those that are in the MidWest and other cold places.

Please feel our hugs and many thanks
The Longs-On the road-----Judy and John
along with those Traveling Cats--Bamm-Bamm and Pebbles.

LOOKING FOWARD TO BEING PAIN FREE!!!

Hi All:
Just a brief note to say that all of the Doctors appointments were completed as scheduled this past week. With all the tests and exams being passed permitting the MUCH needed knee surgery for Judy to be done this coming Wednesday the 26th,, Praying that all goes well. After the rehab is completed she then will get to the rest of her pain problems of hips,feet, and lower back.

We also have lots of friends and families that need prayer this week.
a) CRM Chaplain Don Baker- health/strength/ministry
b) CRM Chaplain Jack Gregory- health/strength/ministry
c) Alice Armstrong[John's cousin] in Iowa City hospital-health
d) Jay Stinson [former Pastor and friend of John]-health and guidance as he prepares for an interim pastorate.
e) The family of Marty Borquin of Davenport,Ia.-who passed away this last week at 52 [he was a close friend of John's brother.
f) OUR NATION LEADERS.
g)OUR MILITARY SERVICE PERSONNEL
h) John's son Mike's wife who NEEDS a transplant urgently!!

Of course we are always happy to hear from those who support us with their prayers, calls and notes (both electrically or regular mail) We also want to say thank-you to those that support our Ministries through CRM web site. It is with all these supports, that carries through all the trials that we endure although we realize that ours is not as much as what JESUS endured for US.
We thank GOD for allowing us the opportunities that cross our paths to show our love for him.

May GOD continue to bless and guide each of you
HUGS The Longs

ANOTHER WEEK OF DOCTORS AHEAD!!

Howdy from the R&L Ranch:

Well things are lining up, to get Judy all medically better.. this past Saturday she was rattling pretty bad again and wheezing pretty good, so off to see the Dr. . Since she is already set to get labs done on Tuesday, he had us get a chest x-ray done also. On Tuesday she will see Dr. Bui, her internist to get medical clearance for her upcoming knee surgery on the 26th.

On Wednesday we travel up to Lufkin, to have a chemical stress test performed to see if there may be problems with her heart! NOT suspecting anything, just a precautionary procedure.

On Thursday, John will be seeing a Dr. to try and get some relief in his left arm. He had pulled a muscle or pinched a nerve in his left side, while working at Amazon.com back on Dec 9th,, with our traveling around and with it being an intra-state workman comp claim, had a hard time finding someone to look at it.

We have had some cool temperatures but only had 2 evenings where it got below 25... we can manage that.. have used 30 pounds of propane 3 weeks in a row. hoping for constant warm weather soon!!

A first has happened to us since we have been Workampers,,, we have had 3 different campgrounds contact us and really was disappointed when we had to decline because of Judy's upcoming knee surgery and rehab (not knowing how long we need to stay here to get it accomplished.) Also heard from AZ and they were counting on John during spring training for the LA Angels. hopefully next year we have also received an invitation to join a different Amusement park for the summer and starting a CRM Chaplain Ministry , but again not knowing the out come of all the Dr we asked to
have them try us again next year.

We hope that 2011 is treating all of our friends well. There are a lot of you that need prayers (in fact too many to list individually so we just ask that you pray for all those that The Longs- On the Road are praying for.. but be especially in prayer for John's cousin Alice in Western Illinois that was taken into the hospital over the weekend with pneumonia. Also join us in prayer for 2 of our close CRM Chaplains Don Baker and Jack Gregory that their health holds for the remaining season at the RV parks in the Rio Grande Valley area. We also ask for prayers for our fellow NOMADS that are in the middle of the 1st work periods for 2011 that they have safe, and enjoyable projects and them safe traveling as they leave.

May God Bless each of you.
and remember that we love all of you also.
The Longs-on the Road Judy and John
along with those Traveling Cats- Pebbles & Bamm-Bamm

Week 1 2011

Greetings from the Lone Star State:

Well I saw where those darn Cats hijacked the blog last week and promised that We would keep it going , either them or John, so I guess I better do it, if I want to get any sleep.

As many of you know, we have had to make a change in our winter travel plans. We are staying in Livingston, Tx area for at least 30- 90 days, as Judy has a new primary care physician,Dr Bui, we are have been impressed with his patient care attitude and thoughtfulness in having things accomplished in a timely manor. Dr Bui also recommended Dr. Sunkavally as her pain management doctor. another good choice as far as we are concern.. Last week Judy had a MRI done for Dr. Sunkavally, he wants to get an idea of what is causing her primary pain, other than the knees. We have an appointment this coming Monday to review them.

Dr DeLoach is the Orthopedic Surgeon that is taking care of the knees, he took more x-rays last week and decided that he wants to try arthroscopic surgery on her left knee 1st ( probably happening in the next 3 weeks) then maybe look at the right one.

Dr. Bui also recommended that Judy see a cardiac specialist,,, she had some chest pains while we were in Coffeyville, which triggered her being in the hospital there during Oct'10. While there she developed pneumonia and then MRSA set in, causing her to be in isolation for 10 days.

John has been busy raking the leaves in the R&L Ranch, carried out 24 wheelbarrows full this week and still has the back 40 to do. We have also had to make a trip to Houston on Thursday, returned some internet equipment.. While we were in Houston, we checked out Sears to find a replacement TV for the main one in the front of the MH..( it had flat-lined on Wednesday night,,, no picture ).
GOD provided again for us!!! as we saw a flat screen set that would fit into the space allotted, it was on sale and since it was the last one in the area they gave us another 10% off. THANK YOU JESUS.

Some of you know that we are members of the ESCAPEES RV CLUB, On Dec 22,2010 one of the co-founders Joe Peterson, past away, His wife Kay and family were in attendance on Saturday here at Rainbow Ends for a Celebration of Joe's life... please pray for the Peterson family and all of the staff of Escapees as they go through this time of mourning. John was one of around 400 people gathered at the activities center for the service.

We are looking at ALL of our possibilities for this summer and seeking Gods guidance on where/what we should do. ASKING for Prayers here.

As things slow down here we will try to get into our picture archives and share some of the sights and events that we have experienced in the last 4 years of being on the road..

May God continue to Bless each of you
and feel the hugs from us.

The Longs-On the road for Christ,, John and Judy
and those Traveling Cats...Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm.

P.S. Just a reminder you can get a daily idea what is happen in and around the ENDEAVOR by
following us on Facebook: John N Judy Long

Home Sweet Home (Texas that is!!)

Happy New Year 2011:
Meowwwwwww to everyone (greetings from Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm)
Dad finally has gotten the laptop functioning again and left it out this evening,,, so Pebbles says we need to get everyone updated on what we have been doing and where we have been since mid-summer at Adventureland, Iowa.
Lets start in the present and work backwards.
We are REALLY REALLY happy to be back on the R&L Ranch here at Rainbows Inn, Livingston, TX. We (us kitties) get to roam the whole area as we please !!! While Dad and Mom have been busy getting Drs for Mom to determine why she is hurting so much,, Last week the visited Dr. Bui who has agreed to be her family Dr.,then they went to Dr. Sunkavally for her pain management, he has scheduled a MRI for this Monday to help determine what causing all of the pain other than her knees.... which she knows needs attention because the left one is bone on bone,so a visit to an orthopedic surgeon to determine the treatment procedures is scheduled. This past Wednesday they traveled down to Baylor for a followup with Dr.Shaib, the Liver specialist,,, he was so pleased with the progress and lab reports over the last year. ( these were done about every other month and sent to him.)

We had spent 10 weeks (Oct 14th until Dec23rd) in Coffeyville, Ks. again this year we were in RiverCrest Campground at Walter Johnson park,,, so Pebbles would sneak out as much as she could. Dad was busy working for Amazon.com in the Inventory Control and Quality Assurance dept, he was working 5:30 p.m. until 4: a.m. Sunday - Wenesday and much of the time he would work 1 more day a week. Dad also did quite a few calls to the hospital and RVs to visit the Rvers who had medical problems or requested that he visit with them,,, The folks had hoped to have a Bible study during the week , but with such a variety of work schedules at Amazon.com and so many different campgrounds it was hard to find a time when to have it... We are praying this may be accomplished next year.
We had another 2 weeks over at Corp of Engineers CG near Montpillier, Iowa along the Mississippi River, Mom and Dad did a lot of visiting with friends and family while there... They said that they really enjoyed the visits with the Wolfe cousins was nice to see Tom and Brenda, Dolly and Dee Dee. The Long cousins supper was terrific, they appreciated the effort of Jim and Diane Griffin, Alice and Larry Armstrong , Dave and Catherine Long, Doug and Cathy Long, John and Jackie Wochner, and Judy and John enjoyed a great meal and a time of sharing about family memories..
On Sept, 19th Mom and Dad, along with other mission volunteers were honored at Christ United Methodist Church, Belle Plane,,, they really appreciate all that the church does for us as we travel and volunteer.
While at Adventureland this past summer us cats were kept on the leash pretty much of the time,, while Dad worked as the overnight Campground Security officer again . he worked Wednesday nights through Sunday Morning.

My look out (Pebbles ) says that Lil' Red just pulled into the drive so we better get this sent .... BTW Dad says that he has keeping the blog updated MUCH more in 2011 then he did in 2010...

May GOD continue to give each of you blessings
The Traveling Cats---Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm

Summer has begun!!

Greetings from Adventureland, Ia:

We apologize for the delay in getting this post up, but we were kind of waiting to hear the final word on Judy's lab results and what the Drs. had to say.

1. The results from Arizona lab work showed that things were happening has planned, so we didn't have to return to Houston's Baylor University THANK YOU JESUS.

2. We had a marvelous 2 periods of NOMAD projects in Arizona during Feb. and March.
We were at TMM in Tucson and then went to Phoenix and UMOM after UMOM we stayed for an additional 2 weeks and volunteered there while John worked for ARAMARK concessions at Tempe Diablo stadium,spring training home of the L.A. Angels, where he was a prep cook (making the sandwiches which were served there.

THANK YOU JESUS for 2 great projects where we met a lot of new NOMAD friends. Also for the safety for travels to and from these important projects and safety while performing them.

3. From Phoenix we headed for Gore, OK and the United Methodist, Circle of Care Boys Ranch.. for our next 3 week period, where again we were greeted by a fabulous team of NOMADS. We accomplished much needed projects while there.

4. We then traveled onto Iowa, spending the first 4 days camped at a Corp of Engineers park along the Mississippi River in Eastern Iowa, while visiting with John's family and friends. Thank You Jim and Judy Thomas for the fabulous tour of your work in progress of your wonderful older home restoration.

5. The next 4 days were spent with the ENDEAVOR secured in Franklin Park at Belle Plaine, Ia. where we visited Judy's family and our friends there. We enjoyed our Sunday Morning Worship experience with our Church family at CHRIST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, Belle Plaine..was great to see ALL of the cheerful faces and received SO Many warm wishes and greetings.

6. We then arrived at Adventureland Campground (Z-22, where we have spent the last 2 summers) around 5:30 p.m among the light rain showers.

7. We visited Dr. Luft (Judy's primary Dr. here in Des Moines) on Monday morning he had looked over all of the fall/ winters medical records from the various Drs.. he then ordered more lab work.... These tests came back with an excellent report that all levels had returned to NORMAL THANK YOU JESUS!!!!!!

8. We then visited Dr. Hanson (her pain management Dr) and he changed her pain medicine last Thursday and at this writing seems so much better for her. THANK YOU JESUS !!!

9. We have been busy with the CRM ministry here in the campground,, there are so many with health issues here this year,, we have made hospital visits and are planning on being involved with small groups by being the facilitators of one. We will be attending the Sunday service over in the Chapel at Adventureland. Along with a Bible Study on Wednesday Mornings.. Please pray for these activities.

Speaking of Prayers those here in Adventureland that have medical issues that need prayer are
Chaplain Jack G., Chuck A. , Judy L., Betty H., Jim K., Dave H., Ron H. and other prayer request that are unspoken.. Please pray for the CRM Chaplains here that we may be a light for our LORD among the folks..


We also want to thank each of you for ALL of your concerns for Judy and John while we have been traveling and for those special request of prayer during Judys recent medical problems dating back to Oct. We are seeing the results of those prayers now as Judy is doing so much better and there isn't any sign of the major problem with her Bile duct. We are all so grateful to those of you that have joined in our ministries financially and want you to know that it has enabled us to go places and witness and work where we would not of been able too do,with out that support.. AGAIN THANK YOU!! We also are always encouraged by notes here on the blog, or in the mail, and hearing your voices on the phone is always a treasured event. Visiting in person, as we cross your paths, is a special treat for us and we always have time for at least a soda or coffee with you. We close with just this wish that each of you have the most BLESSED Summer and that you all have a wonderful day.

GODS LOVE to each and a hug from THE LONGS- Judy and John and we still have those traveling cats BAMM- BAMM and PEBBLES say meooooooow.

So some thought we were still on vacation!!!

Just a few things that have transpired since Jan. 20th when the Drs. in Houston, released Judy to travel... We arrived in Casa Grande, Az. for a week with our fellow Christian Resort Ministries Chaplains; Don and La Von Baker.
We then went down to Tucson's TMM Family service to begin our 2010 NOMADS projects.. The project at TMM began Feb.1st for 3 weeks ending Feb.18th,and consisted of a great many things that needed to be done.. some of which were moving them out of their office space into a temporary office area ,while they remodel the old space into much needed single parent housing apartments. We painted various spaces, one was all of the wrought iron fencing surrounding the street sides of the property. John hand lettered a sign indicating where all of the temporary offices are presently located. Lots of miscellaneous tasks were accomplished, keys sorted and reassigned to a master lock box, blue prints re-tubed and relabeled, washer repaired, basketball hoops, installed, light bulbs replaced in the dining hall, outdoor walkway lights repaired, a stepping stone walkway constructed, and of course the always present NOMAD task of cleaning and sorting. The team there was 3 couples: The Dave Hartts from Michigan were our leaders, the Ken Younts from Tennessee, and us.We had the traditional NOMAD activities of Game nights and food.

Then we moved up to Phoenix and began NOMAD project period 3 (2/22-3/11) at UMOM. UMOM is a campus with a wide variety of ministries to single moms and families that are homeless. The team here consisted of 5 couples: The Delmar Smiths of Illinois were the team leaders, the David Smiths from Michigan, the Mark Fords,formally from Wisconsin; but are full-timer RVers like us. Also there was the Warren Rices from Minnesota along with us.
Again the work here was widely varied. The major project accomplished was the installation of tile in the new conference rooms coffee area and the adjoining restroom. Also the conference room (50'x36') was primed and painted in 1day by the whole team working together.there was an old serving window that was filled in and painted... The team also helped with 3 large mailings.. there was closet shelving installed in 3 offices, shelving assembled and many boxes moved out and then back in the accounting office area. The ladies worked numerous days at the clothes closet ( a place where donated clothes are sorted and made available to the residents). The ladies also worked in a area where there were piles and piles of catering utensils and equipment stored, they straighten and washed a lot of items. Some worked in the food donation area arranging the cans by product and checking the dates for those that were outdated and tossed.

We are staying at UMOM even after the "official" ending date of the NOMAD project until the2nd of April, Judy is working wherever she can be of assistance, while John is working over at Tempe Diabo stadium 'The Spring Training Home of the L.A. Angels, he is working in the food concession stand building sandwiches (hot dogs, bacon-cheese burgers, brats, and Portabella Mushroom) on non-game days John is assisting the UMOM maintenance dept by doing various electrical and plumbing repairs.

We then will be traveling to Judys April 7th Drs, appointment in Houston before joining the NOMAD period 5 team at the Boys Ranch in Gore, Ok.(4/5-4/22) then we head home to IOWA, plans are in complete at this writing as we are waiting to see how the Drs visit goes.

Of course all of this could NOT be possible with out the guidance of God and ALL of your support in prayers, calls, letters, e-mails and especially the financial support you provide.
Hoping to see many of you when we are in Belle Plaine the 1st weekend of May.

May God continue to bless each of you
Hugs around from the Longs-on the road for Christ; Judy and John

Arizona

Hey all:
We have been busy! but we will try to get the " update" posted NO LATER than Friday evening; have LOTS to share and am trying to get pictures finished and added. Hope this finds all of you well.

Keep praying for us as Judy is doing ok so far,, had a minor Krone's attack over the weekend... John has been selected to work for the L.A. Angels training stadium in the concession stand along 3rd base.----more later.

Love you all and see some of you in late April or early May when we return to Iowa.

YES; WE ARE STILL IN TEXAS

Greeting from the Texas deepfreezer:

We realize that most of our blog readers are getting this northern weather worst then we are, and we are praying for them. We are already below freezing here near Houston, and expected to stay around freezing for over 36 straight hours...

Any way just a short note to let you know that we saw Judy's Specialist yesterday at the Baylor Medical Center for the consultation, He felt that the extra procedure is still necessary, 1) to see where or what caused the initial bile duct blockage. 2) to remove the original stint and possibly replace it if necessary. 3) To see if there was any damage done to either the pancreas or liver and make a positive determination of NO Cancer.

The Dr. was very through with his questions and allowed us adequate time to ask anything we needed to know..We were impressed.

This procedure is scheduled for Friday Jan 8,2010 at 9 a.m.; should take about 11/2 hours to perform and then a 2 hour recovery and if it goes well back to Livingston by 1 p.m.

We will have to go back to the Dr office sometime next week for a follow-up visit, and then we hope to head to MUCH warmer Arizona at least by the end of the week.

Thanks again for all that you all do for us as we have this opportunity to represent Christ to the RVing community and those who are disadvantage served by the agencies partners of NOMADS.

Gods Blessing and warmth
and Hugs from the Longs:on the road for Christ: Judy and John
along with the freezing traveling cats Bamm Bamm and Pebbles

NEW YEAR GREETINGS

Happy New Years Y'all:

Since arriving at the R&L Ranch here in Rainbows End, near Livingston, Tx . We have been busy. We HAVE to play pinochle on Monday,Wednesday, and Friday evenings. Then we play hand and foot 3 afternoons a week, then there is the mexican train games to get in. Besides going to Sunday School and Church on Sundays, then vesper services here at the Care Center on Sunday Afternoons. Of course we attended Candlelight services on Christmas Eve at 1st United Methodist Church, Livingston. There was the huge Christmas potluck dinner at the Activities Center (which we hosted the table of 11). New Year Eve was another huge finger food party,with live music (we found an empty room to play hand and foot in and still heard the music). Breakfast was served at 11 p.m. then at Midnight we gathered in a circle joining hands and sang Auld Lang Sang.

We have toured Livingston a few times getting the lay of the land for when we might settle here. We have traveled over to Triple Creek RV resort at Woodville, Tx twice on Saturdays to listen to some good Gospel music 1 night and Country music 1 night.

We had New Years Day Dinner with 3 other couples at the Wiehrs (The home of the R&L Ranch).. We have been keeping the leaves raked up and (over 30 wheel barrows full) hauled away off of the front yard. John repaired a light fixture in their family room. He has also repaired a hole in the Tin roof over the woodshop area. Caulked around the foundation of their manufactured home. Covered the airvents with plastic so the air doesn't get in the crawl space.
SO JUST MAYBE this explains a little why this space hasn't been updated sooner (possibly spending a LOT of time on FACEBOOK AND TWITTER might be another reason.) One could follows us on FaceBook as John N Judy Long or on Twitter as ChaplainLong.

Just saw this great CHRISTMAS POEM:
'Twas the day after Christmas, and all through the house,
Every creature was hurtin', even the mouse.
The toys were all broken, their batteries dead;
Santa passed out, with some ice on his head.
... See More
Wrapping and ribbons just covered the floor,
While upstairs the family continued to snore.
And I in my T-shirt, new Reeboks and jeans,
I went into the kitchen and started to clean.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the sink to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the curtains, and threw up the sash.

When what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a little white truck, with an oversized mirror.
The driver was smiling, so lively and grand;
The patch on his jacket said "U.S. POSTMAN."

With a handful of bills, he grinned like a fox
Then quickly he stuffed them into our mailbox.
Bill after bill, after bill, they still came.
Whistling and shouting he called them by name:

"Now Dillard's, now Broadway's, now Penny's and Sears
Here's Robinson's, Levitz's and Target and Mervyn's.
To the tip of your limit, every store, every mall,
Now charge away--charge away--charge away all!"

He whooped and he whistled as he finished his work.
He filled up the box, and then turned with a jerk.
He sprang to his truck and he drove down the road,
Driving much faster with just half a load.

Then I heard him exclaim with great holiday cheer,
"Enjoy what you got. . . . . .you'll be paying all year!"

We do hope that you will join us in Prayer for all of those that are in our Armed services, serve us in the public sector as Firemen, Policemen, Doctors, Nurses, City Servants. There have been many who have lost LOVED Ones this season, pray for them all.. Also especially remember Our Close Friend Chuck, who has just been diagnosed with a rare form of Leukemia. Judy goes in for her consultation on this Wednesday ( this has been rescheduled 4 times) we are hoping that the Specialist at Baylor doesn't detect anything else... SHE REALLY HAS BEEN DOING GOOD, even when she has bad days; she has bounced back pretty quick.

Again we would like to thank all of you, that have decided to be a part of our Ministries by your Prayers; moral support of calls, letters , e-mails; and the financial support that allows us to stay out here fulltime on the road for Christ... we really appreciate all that you do.

YIPPEE YIPPEE, WE ARE HOME IN TEXAS

Howdy You'll:

First of all to bring you up to date on our final week in Coffeyville; There were only 12 present for our final Worship hour, as so many were either working or resting from the extra hours of the work (most were working in excess of 50 hours).

Was busy getting all the mail and paychecks distributed, just in case Judy's Dr sent her onto Oklahoma City, after her scheduled office visit on Monday afternoon. He was pretty pleased with her overall improvement. Although he still would like her to have further consultation with a more specialized Dr. Since everywhere he suggested to go was such a distance from Coffeyville, we felt it would be wise to just take our motor home and move closer to the area of the consultation, in case there is more procedures to get done. So of all of the possibilities we choose to have it done in Houston, Tx. at the Baylor University Medical Center.

On Tuesday morning we finished tiding up loose ends and getting the Endeavor ready to move. We pulled out around 10 a.m. and headed to Bartlesville, Ok to get medication and paperwork from Jane Phillips Medical Center, to hand carry to the Drs. at BUMC. We finally was on the road South around 2:30 p.m. We drove as far as the Indian Nations food/gas plaza at Antlers, where it had turn dark and was beginning to rain.

On Wednesday, the rain had stopped by daylight, so we headed into Texas. We made several stops as we weren't in any hurry. We pulled into the R&L Ranch at Rainbows End, near Livingston, Texas, about 3:15p.m. While Judy went into Wiehrs to visit, John got Litl' Red detached from the Endeavor and parked on the landing pad. John finished setting up just in time to go play Pinochle over at the Clubhouse .

The Doctor from BUMC, called on Thursday, and gathered some more information from Judy and scheduled her consultation for Wednesday the 9Th in Houston, which is only around 50 miles away from here.

While we are here, Ralph has asked that John take care of some more minor projects on their manufactured home. So that, card-playing along with all the other social activities should keep John busy that he doesn't get into very much trouble.

Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm were sure excited to see some familiar landscape, meaning that they may get some freedoms (Dad went and purchased a new tie-out today).

Our Holiday plans are to stay here at Rainbows End until after New Years Day and then head out to Sunscape RV Resort in Casa Grande, Az. We will be there during January, to assist, as needed, the CHRISTIAN RESORT MINISTRIES CHAPLAINS Don and La Von Baker. We then begin our next NOMAD projects in Tucson on Feb.4Th for 3 weeks, then go to Phoenix for another 3 weeks project. We will then hang around Phoenix area for another week or 10 days while Andy joins us to take in some of the CUBS spring training. Then unto Gore, OK for another 3 week NOMAD project. Then the plans at this time is to head towards Iowa for the Summer at ADVENTURELAND where John is suppose to be the overnight security officer in the campground there, while assisting CHRISTIAN RESORT CHAPLAINS Jack and Karen Gregory, with the ministry there.

You all may also keep up with us on a daily basis as we are now also posting on Facebook as John N Judy Long and also at Tweeter as ChaplainLong.

There are so many prayer request at this time that I need to organize them and make another post tomorrow along with the possibilities of some pictures.

We hope that you'll remember 'THE REASON FOR THE SEASON' and enjoy with your loved ones.

Again we truly appreciate everyone that prayed for Judy while she was in the hospital last month. We are also thankful for those of you that have enabled us to be out here full time by supporting us with your prayers, moral support of call,letter,and e-mails, also we want those, that financially support us to know that it makes the difference if we are to continue to stay out here on the road for Christ or not.

The closing scripture verse is Romans 12:1-8 also check out the CRM site as listed on the side of our blog, to find out more about CRM and how individuals can help.

May GOD pour out many special Blessings to each of YOU'LL
and you'll get a HUGE HUG from the LONGS ON THE ROAD for CHRIST: John and Judy along with special meows from the TRAVELING CATS: Bamm-Bamm and Pebbles

HOW TO HELP CRM

We received the following from Bob Ruesh, our Director of Chaplains,, we thought we would share this neat idea with you all!!

Blessings and Hugs

The Longs: John and Judy

Email from Bob Ruesch

If you are wondering about GoodSearch (link in the sidebar menu), a YAHOO search engine. Here is a video about the product. CRM International receives donations from this Christian company when you use GoodSearch over Google or other search engines.

Check out the video and then, if you feel comfortable, you can download a GoodSearch tool bar for your internet browser. List CRM (under Christian Resort Ministries International) and start searching away. We receive donations because of the searches.

http://www.youtube.com/goodsearch#p/a/u/0/DvArUu7zFH8

Any questions, call me, I have answers…. (Interested in being an RV resort chaplain? Call Bob!!!)

Blessings!

Chaplain Bob Ruesch

Christian Resort Ministries

918-285-0223 (AT&T) or

970-420-9525 (Verizon)

WE MADE IT THROUGH ANOTHER WEEK!!

Greetings from the Endeavor !

We made it through another week, where Judy has had an up and down week. She is continuing to gain more and more strength each passing day and wanting to try to do more around the motorhome. Over the weekend she went to the Sunday morning worship with John. We had 13 present, we also were delighted to have Kelly come and lead music with her guitar. Barbara also sang a beautiful solo for us again. In the afternoon Judy and John then walked around outside for about 15 minutes, walking 1/2 way out to the main road and back.

We may be leaving Coffeyville shortly, depending on what we find out from Judy's doctor this week. If we leave early we are going to head on out to Casa Grande and spend January at Sunscape RV Resort, with CRM Chaplains Don and La Von Baker. This is a LARGE RV park and they are averaging over 120 in worship on Sundays. Sunscape is mostly older Sno-birds and has quite a few people in the various hospitals at times.

Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm will NOT be excited to leave here, as they get to go play outside once a day. Pebbles really enjoys it, as she as found a little gray play toy (an alive one). Then there is that over 1,000 miles trip. They aren't looking forward to that.

As we are in the Thanksgiving Season The Longs On the Road are thankful:(1) to God that he has given them the opportunity to serve him in this unique way.(2) that he has given them the adequate health to accomplish what they do. (3) for all of our Family and friends, that have been so supportive of our endeavors. (4) for our fellow NOMADS that take time to volunteer at so many needed areas of the country, without them a lot of GODS work could not be accomplished. (5) for our fellow CHRISTIAN RESORT CHAPLAINS, whom serve in so many different area proclaiming CHRISTS' great redemption messages.(6) for all of those that God has favored this past year with answered prayers for medical concerns and wisdom in planning their courses of actions for the year. (7) for each other and the strength that we lend to each other. (8) that CHRIST CAME TO EARTH TO DIE for OUR SINS ,SO THAT WE MAY HAVE EVER LASTING LIFE with OUR HEAVENLY FATHER. (9) for all of you that have chosen to be a part of our ministries by participating with either your prayers; encouragement by letters and e-mails or phone calls; or those that have seen the need to provide the financial resources that have allowed us this great opportunity to represent CHRIST.

May God Blessing go out to you all at this time of year.
and remember that we owe each of you a huge hug next we see you.

The Longs on the road for Christ: Judy and John
along with those Traveling Cats Bamm-Bamm and Pebbles.