Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Dinner with Friends

We had a wonderful dinner with our new friends as you can see the dinner was not the usual. There where no standard forks or spoons so we ended up eating our ice cream with a tooth pick and it got better after each dish. We had a blast!!! After dinner we all got a turn on the WEE. This is only a few pictures we are keeping the rest under lock and key.









Sunday, December 27, 2009

Lighthouse Church Christmas Eve

We had a wonderful Christmas Eve service and we are looking forward to 2010 to see how God is going to build Lighthouse Church.
Renee' and I are hard at work on the missions house and have many new ideas. We have talked with alot of people here and we are praying about all the ideas. We are looking forward to the big move this week to Tulum and we can't wait to get into our condo and start a small group...
Have to go and pack more boxes into the truck which we just unloaded. Boy it will be nice to get to Tulum!!!!

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Life In Mexico

We are starting to feel at home here as today we set up our internet and Sky TV (cable) for the new house. Did not go bad at all we did have to sign contracts (which are in Spanish) and you know I still don't really know what I signed. I may have signed away the farm! As we talked on the way home God knows and we trust him!!!!
Have to go and get the oil changed in the truck today we do have a Honda Dealer in Playa so we are going there. They told us yesterday to bring it in at 9am and we could pick it up at 3pm we will try and improve this today may just 3 hours not 6. We will see?

Monday, December 21, 2009

Lighthouse Church Sunday!

Wow, we had 52 in church Sunday with some new faces God is Working in Tulum. Amen..
Just to let you know it's been a little cool here over the last couple of days in the low 70's and everyone is putting on coats and long pants. Not us we are in shorts must be the Alaska Blood!!!
This is going to be a very short week with Christmas Eve Service and then Sunday Service. We are trying to fit in packing and making another trip to the Condo we think Sat. to unload some boxes so we can load up next week to make another trip.
We are really looking forward to moving in and starting to work with the people in Tulum and getting a small group going. Well I had better get back to work!!!
Drop us a note we love getting them.

Love To All
Bill & Renee'

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Going Out to Dinner!


Thought I would post this as the newest picture we have. You might not be able to tell but the tan is getting better. Working out in this sun is not fun and we have to be careful of getting to much of a good thing.

We are starting to think about Moving?

Yes, the big move to Tulum is just two week away and then we can really unpack the boxes. Still have alot of the boxes in the truck and have unloaded 8 that are in our bedroom now. Looks like we can unload some of the boxes at the condo next week and then help Terry and Debbie with their boxes. We think two loads with three car's will work we shall see.
Just as a note we will not have internet from the end of Dec. to Jan. 8th so we will be off and on as we can find a signal at the condo. We will email and skype when we get the enternet set up.
All is well here and we are getting ready for church Sunday and then a Christmas Eve Service.
We miss you all and Merry Christmas!!!!

Monday, December 14, 2009

Monday 14th of Dec. 2009

Wow, where has this year gone? We have been on a wide ride since we left Anchorage with seeing all of our Friends and Family as we traveled. Then we made it to our new home in Mexico and we still have to pinch ourselfs that we are home and we don't have to get on a plane.
Still alot to learn here and we are getting better each day with the shopping.
One thing that has not changed is we miss our family in Anchorage! Talking with the kids and our dear friends on skype helps but we can't wait until we can give each of you a JOHNSON HUG!!!!!! It may just be the time of year but we are sometimes a little down but we remember that God is with us and he will take care of the people we love better then we could.
Renee' and I are feeling better still have a little cough but will keep up the water and we will get better.
Wishing Everyone A Very Merry Christmas
Love to All
Bill & Renee'

Friday, December 11, 2009

What a Week!!!

Sorry we have not posted this week but we have been down with of all things a cold. We think we picked it up sunday and it just took us down most of the week. I must say that getting cold med's here is not like at home. First you can't read the box so we look at the pictures and then hope we can read how to take it. Trusting God is a daily thing here and we have been able to see that more each day.
We both feel better today and got outside in the fresh (HOT) air which seem to help. It maybe just that we are in the sun and it makes us feel better. Both Renee and I where talking that if we feel it's hot now wait until july. We are trusting God to take us through the daily ups and downs and we can see his path daily.
So far this has been quite a trip way outside our box and we don't see any end to it. God always has a plan and we just have to step out in faith and trust that God knows what is best.

Sunday, December 6, 2009

We Can't Out Give God!!!!






This has been quite a week for us. We have been praying that God would bring 50 people to Lighthouse Church this Sunday and what did we have 48, praise God. Now, next week we are praying for 60 people would you join us in this prayer. There are many here in Tulum that are in need of Jesus Christ and we want to be the light that brings them to a place where God will change their lives.


As I said, this has been a week of God sized answer to prayer. Renee' and I are humbled by the support we have been given this week. God continues to touch peoples hearts for the Mission Field and for that we are forever grateful. As volunteer missionaries, we are praying that God will bring teams for us to work with and funds to make an eternal difference in this area of Mexico. Romans 6:23 states: For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus Our Lord. Our prayer is that God is glorified in all we say and do.


We are looking forward to meeting with the owners of the condo this week. They are coming in the 8th and we will be in Tulum this coming week meeting with a family from church that has built a new home/office building so we can see them also when we are there.

It will be nice once we are moved as the drive from Playa to Tulum (about 50 min.) is getting a little long. I don't see how people in the Mat Valley do it. Our Son Tim and his family live just the other side of Big Lake and he drives to Anchorage everyday. Now I know what he goes through and we don't have snow.
As we continue to trust God for our every need we are looking forward to working in this mission field.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Checking out Tulum

Hola, Pastor Terry and I drove to Tulum today just to stay in contact with a few people we did not see at church Sunday. Most where working Sunday as that is the norm down here. We wanted to make sure they new they where welcome to come anytime and that it's only an hour so they all will try and make it. We will leave this up to the Holy Spirit to move them to want to come to church.

We did check in our the condo and all is well the owners should be here this weekend and we all want to get together. We can't wait to get into our place and start working on the mission house.
There is alot to get done if we want to be running by Jan.2010 and we have been doing a little now but with not alot of room we can't get alot of the materials needed. We just have to wait and that can be hard sometimes.

We Love You All
God Bless

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Dec. 1st In Mexico







WOW, the girls did a wonderful job on the tree and we had fun trying to get all the lights to work. In Mexico the lights are not the same as in the States so it can take a little time and just a few kind words to get everything just right. Does not really look like Christmas outside as it has been in the mid 80's with blue sky. We have not had a Christmas like this since we where in Hawaii for the first time. Then we just had a pineapple on the table for a tree.
We are looking forward to moving to Tulum (still 4weeks away) but have to wait as the owners are coming down the 8th and will be here until Jan.9th. Still have a few things to get done with the internet and we are not sure about the T.V. as we really don't have the time to watch it. We do try and catch the news but it all depends on what is going on. I am going to try and find one or two boxes in the back of the truck today as I would like to find my shoes. Did find some more shorts yesterday as we where looking for the Christmas boxes we brought from Alaska.
Please drop us an email or give us a call on Skype when you can. We miss you all and look forward to talking with you. soon

Monday, November 30, 2009

LightHouse Church




Wanted you to see these photos of the Mission Team at work and relaxing (Michael & Dawn) we could not get them all on the same post.


Alaska Mission Team LightHouse Church

We are a little sad today as the Alaska Mission Team from Rabbit Creek left today. We all know how we look forward to seeing family and it's wonderful when there here we wish they could stay and work with us. As you can see Pat and Pete worked hard on the church van putting on new shocks and Renee' and Dawn had a good time together at a cookout at Patricks. Quite a sunset if you ask me!!!
Being on this side of missions is quite a bit different as we are planning and working with teams coming in. We are going to have to work on seeing our family and friends leave trusting God to get them home safe.
This week we are working on budget for ABBA CASA again as we keep seeing new area's where we can serve the community of Tulum. We are going to try and get the internet set up in the new condo and the owners will be here this week. It will be nice to meet them after talking so long over the phone and Skype.
Church was great Sunday with 40 people at our First Service the Team from LightHouse Church did a wonderful job from parking car's to setting up the food. We are praying that God will bring 60 people next sunday. If you have not checked out the church web site you should it looks great. www.lighthouseChurchTulum.com





Monday, November 23, 2009

Our Thanksgiving Prayer

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.

Know that the Lord is God.

It is He who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.

For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulmess continues through all generations. (Psalm 100)



As we give thanks today let us not forget the one who loves us and is faithful through all of our sin.

Bill and I would like to wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving. I have been listening to this song all week and thought of you. Our prayer for each of you is that "Today Is The Day" for you. This song is by Lincoln Brewster:

I'm casting my cares aside.
I"m leaving my past behind.
I'm setting my heart and mind on YOU, Jesus.
I'm reaching my hand to YOURS.
Believing there's so much more.
Knowing that all YOU have in store for me is good. It's good.

Today is the day YOU have made.
I will rejoice and be glad in it.
Today is the day YOU have made.
I will rejoice and be glad in it.
And I won't worry about tomorrow.
I'm trusting in what YOU say.
Today is the day. Today is the day.

I'm putting my fears aside.
I'm leaving my doubts behind.
I'm giving my hopes and dreams to YOU, Jesus.
I'm reaching my hands to YOURS.
Believing there's so much more.
Knowing that all YOU have in store for me is good. It's good.

Todays is the day YOU have made.
I will rejoice and be glad in it.
Today is the day YOU have made.
I will rejoice and be glade in it.
And I won't worry about tomorrow.
I'm trusting in what YOU say.
Today is the day. Today is the day.

I will stand upon YOUR truth.
" " " " " " .
And all my days I"ll live for YOU.
" " " " " " " " .
I will stand upon YOUR truth.
" " " " " " .
And all my days I'll live for YOU.
" " " " " " " " .

Today is the day YOU have made.
I will rejoice and be glad in it.
Today is the day YOU have made.
I will rejoice and be glad in it.
And I won't worry about tomorrow.
Giving YOU my fears and sorrows.
Where YOU lead me I will follow.

I'm trusting in what YOU say.
Today is the day.
Today is the day.
Today is the day.
Today is the day.
Today is the day!!!!!!!



LightHouse Church Tulum Last Planning Meeting




What a wonderful group that God has brought to gether in Tulum. We had our last planning meeting last night and we can not wait until Sunday..... Everyone is working hard getting the word out about this new church. We have had (as of yesterday) over 200 hits on the Tulum web site and the flyers are going out again this weekend. I know that God is going to bless this work and use all of use to be a Light of Hope for the people of Tulum.
Renee' and I are so looking forward to moving into our condo in January. It will be nice not to live out of boxes and I would really like to unpack the truck. We did go to Sam's and pick up a bed we want to try for ABBA CASA and if it works like we think we could add another 6 people who might stay. We will just have to see how it works out.
Our Spanish is coming along very slow but we are not going to let it get us down. We are taking one word a day and reading signs and going to the store just to see if we can understand what we are trying to purchase. It can be fun if you let it.

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Alaska Team on Mission




Wow, the Alaska Team is on the ground in Mexico!!! We are so happy to see our family from Rabbit Creek Community Church. They look great for being on a plane all night and all day.
Renee' and I feel a little funny being on this side waiting at the airport for a team to come in, we have always been the team coming. This is going to be a little different.
Our prayer this week is that God will use us and the team from Alaska to build a strong church here in Tulum that brings glory to God and life change to the people of Mexico.


Thursday, November 19, 2009

Working on ABBA CASA OUTLINE


Well it's been three weeks since we crossed the border and God has been with us every step of the way. We could not have come this far without God going before us and taking care of our needs at every turn. We are blessed to be serving Him in Mexico.
As we look to 2010 our prayer is for God to guide us in planning for and operating ABBA CASA. As we have said before the picture we started with may not be God's plan but through prayer and staying close to him the picture will become clear.
We have a home and will open it to whom ever is in need and look to connect with small teams that are serving in our area of Mexico. Once we get moved to Tulum we are going to connect with several of the small hotels there and try and work with them on large teams that come down. Renee' and I are humbled by the financial support we have received from everyone. We want you to know that the financial support we get goes direct into ministries and the operation of ABBA CASA. It's our prayer that God will touch peoples hearts and the support for God's mission here in Mexico will grow. You can send support checks to Bill & Renee' Johnson C/O Yucatan Outreach Ministries, 1120 Huffman Road, Suite 24, PMB 581, Anchorage, Alaska 99515 . We invite you to come down and experience MISSIONS in a safe and welcoming environment. Remember God does not call the equiped, He equips the called.
Looking forward to serving with you in Mexico.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Getting The Word Out

We just got back from passing out flyers in Tulum for the kick off of LightHouse Church. Every time we go to Tulum we find another new item or place we would like to see. It's going to be a nice place to settle in I think.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

How Much Do We Need

Life is not measured by how much one owns. Luke 12:15

Jesus had a definition for greed. He called it the practice of measuring life by possessions.

A. You got a lot=you are a lot.

B. You got a little=you are little.

The consequence of such a philosophy is predictable. If you are the sume of what you own, then by all means own it all. No price is too high. No payment is to much.....
Greed is not defined by what something costs; it is measured by what is costs you.
If anything costs you your faith or your family, the price is too high.

(When God Whipers Your Name)

Don't fall into this trap that the world only can see what you have on the outside. God looks on the inside and works there to change our hearts. When we put God First our want's change and fall into line with what God has for us.

Monday, November 16, 2009

Sunday Travels






Sunday was a great day! Renee' and I drove into Cancun for Church and to get reconnected with the friends we have there. It was good to see them and all the kid's that have grown up so fast. We drove back to Playa and then to Tulum for our LightHouse Church Team Meeting. We are less than 2 weeks away from the kick off and things are starting to move. We will be passing out flyers this Wed. and then again next week with the Mission Team from Alaska. It's a little different being on this end of missions getting ready for a team to come in and not being the one traveling.
Please keep us in your prayers as we work to help Pastor Terry plant this new church. I know God is going to bless this work and we are going to see people come to the Lord.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

The Voice of Adventure

Those who try to keep their lives will lose them. But those who give up their lives will save them. Luke 17:33

There is a rawness and a wonder to life. Pursue it. Hunt for it. Sell out to get it. Don't listen to the whines of those who have settled for a second-rate life and want you to do the same so they won't feel guilty. Your goal is not to live long; it's to live. Make a difference. Sure it isn't safe, but what is?
(He Still Moves Stones)

Step back let God take hold of your heart, listen to what God is saying. Don't just go from one day to the next. Let God use you to make a eternal difference in the lives of those you touch.
Amen.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

LightHouse Church Tulum

Wow, as you can see God is working in the lives of the people in Mexico. We had a wonderful service last sunday with everyone jumping in to set up chairs and tables to getting the sound system plug in. There was no lack of food and it was all very good.
Renee' and I are helping Pastor Terry and Debbie get things together for the kick off service the 29th of November. We are praying that God will double the number of people in church that day.
Each day we ask God to let us see his plan for us that day no more, no less and we have been blessed with new friends, new relationships, and the a peace that only comes from God.
Renee' and I thankful for each of you and your support of God's mission here in Mexico. We could not be here working if it was not for you. Please drop us a note we look forward to your notes and emails.










Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Ida Passed

Thought we would give you the update on the Storm " IDA" that passed by over the weekend. We where not in the direct path so we did not get the high winds but did get alot of rain and some winds. Sunday started out as a sunny/cloudy day but not alot of rain until late in the afternoon so church went well and we where home safe and sound.
Not a bad dry run for what we need to do and have on hand when we have a big storm. We will work on getting our stuff together and in a dry and safe place so we will be able to help others if needed.

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Condo In Tulum





Ok, starting in the upper left is our front doors that open in to the living room, next is the patio
area, and then the kitchen looking down from the
stairs. It has a big kitchen and large living room just the correct size for small groups and anyone wanting to vist. We will get pictures of the bedrooms and upper deck as we can they are painting the unit now.
God provided a home with alot of room and much more then we could have wished for. God is good all the time!!!!
We have signed the contract and will move in to the unit Jan.8th. The owners will be here in Dec. and staying until we move in. That is also a real blessing as we get to meet them and they can meet us. You can only do so much over the phone and computers.
We still do not have a firm picture on our ministry here God is molding us and the vision of work each day. We look forward each day to see what God's plan is for us.
Renee is going to help one of the church members move this week and I am starting to work on CLASS 201 rewrite for LightHouse Church Tulum.
We would ask each of you to pray for our friend Michael Lang who is in ICU at Prov. in Anchorage and his wife Virginia. Pray for healing and rest and most of all God's Will for them both. Also add the Elliott's to your prayer list as they will be traveling to get some tests done.
We miss you all and look forward to seeing you in Mexico.
Bill & Renee'

Saturday, November 7, 2009

One Week and We Love It

It's been a little over a week since we drove into Playa and we are starting to get our feet on the ground. Driving, Going to the store, Getting Gas, is all new and different.

We have been trying to help Pastor Terry and Debbie get the material together for the first trial run of LightHouse Church in Tulum this Sunday. We are praying that God with fill the church!!!!

We have sign the contract on the Condo and should be able to move in Jan.8th as the owners will be here in Dec. for a month. That will be nice to meet them face to face and get the in's and out's of a new home. We can't wait to get the truck unpack and things put away. We will try and post the pictures later today.

Love to All
Bill & Renee

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

God's Provision

We had a good trip to Tulum Tuesday and looked at three or four houses and condos. Since we left Anchorage and really did not have a plan we are trusting God for his provision of a place to live. All along both Renee' and I have said that we felt God had a place picked out and it would be better then any thing we could hope for.
We did locate a condo, Bigger and Better than we could of dreamed about. God is good all the time!!!! We have to work out some of the details but we should move in Jan. 8th. Please pray that the lease will come in and that we can work with the owners on a few things we would like to see done. We know that God has been directing our steps and that He is with us always. We will try and upload some pictures a little later.
Please keep us in prayer as we seek God's direction for the path we are on and for Light House Church we have our first trial run this sunday. People hearts will be and are being changed by God's church in Tulum.
We love and Miss you all.
Bill & Renee

Monday, November 2, 2009

Working In Tulum


We started in Tulum with Pastor Terry and the

team putting out the first of several flyers. Renee'

is talking with te girls and laying out plans for the

day.



Pastor Terry is getting the cards and flyers. We are looking forward to next sunday as it will be a dry run for team. Everyone has been working hard and you can see God working as we join in his plan for Tulum.
God Bless
Bill & Renee'

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Playa & Tulum

Hola,
We are getting out rest for a couple of days and trying to get things set up for church on sunday. We have been working on computers (updates) for a day or two when you don't have them turned on for 6 weeks they have alot of information to catch up on. We have been praying that God will show us his plan for us. Still not a clear picture and it may not be for awhile but we are going to wait and trust God for what ever he has for us.

We are off to Tulum to pass out information on Light House Church today with the start up team. It will be good to reconnect with them as we did meet some of them last March. It will be fun!!!!

Remember:
In Happy moments, Praise God

In Difficult moments, Seek God

In Quite moments, Worship God

In Painful moments, Trust God

Every moment, Thank God

God Bless
Bill & Renee'

Thursday, October 29, 2009

51 Days

As you can see we are in Playa after 51 days on the
road, 17 states, 3 countries, and 10,000 miles we
drove into Playa Thursday morning at 2:15am
that is correct (A.M.) we hit the road and when
it came time to stop we all said let's just go home!
So we drove 18 hours and we are glad not to be
in the truck today.
All in All it was a very good drive no real problems and the roads where good. Did support the local police at three spots where they wanted to chat with us. Did have one military stop where
they did take some of the bag's out and check them but did not have us unload the truck that was a blessing.
We start looking at houses Monday and we both know that God has a place for us. I feel way outside my box with all that has taken place in the last 51 Days. But I know in my heart that we are trusting God for our needs. Both Renee and I know we can not do anying apart from God and it's our prayer that we stay right in the middle of his plan for us.
We look forward to hearing from everyone so please drop us a note when you can. We do have the cell phone and it's always on.
Please pray for us as we seek to run the race that God has laid out for us.
Love to All
Bill & Renee'

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Brownsville, TX.

Hi Y'all, we have made it to Brownsville with everyone still in the truck including Pastor Terry. We had a wonderful weekend with Terry Jr. and his family in Dallas and left Sunday Morning. We will cross the border Monday about 9:00 am Texas time and be on our way to Playa. I hope we can sleep tonight as both of us are excited to see what God has in store for us. This will be the last post until we get to Playa but we will have the Mexico Cell phone on so you can still call us. Just remember you have to put the country code in then the number.
Our love to all!!
Bill & Renee'

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Ocean to Ocean

What do you think? This is the Atlantic on a wonderful sunny day just out side of Ormond Beach. We could not believe that we have driven from the Pacific to Atlantic and are on our way to the Gulf of Mexico. God has been directing our steps all along the way and we are resting in his will for us.

We are in Shreveport, LA. for a couple of days then off to Dallas. We plan on meeting up with Pastor Terry there then leaving Sunday morning to Brownsville, TX. We will cross the boarder Monday on our way to Playa. Should be in Playa
Friday next week. We are looking forward to spending time with Pastor Terry and getting our feet on the ground in Mexico. We don't have any idea of what God has in store for us but we know that He will take care of us. We have talked a lot about what WE think our mission is but can't wait to see how God is going to use us.
We thank God for each of you and your prayers.
The U.S. cell # 907-306-5882 will be on until Monday than we will be on our Mexico cell #984-120-4039 don't forget you have to put in the country code when you dial. We will not have email again until we get to Playa so our last post will be Sunday night.

My Turn: Hi everyone. We are really getting excited about getting to Mexico. We have been on the road 6 weeks now and have seen all of our family plus lots of wonderful friends. It has been a wonderful time of sharing. We are ready to see the home God has picked out for us. We have to remind ourselves daily that God has just enough light for us to follow today. If any of you know Bill and I very well you know that we are planners so waiting is a challenge for us yet very exciting to see God unfold His plan for us.

I hope all is well with each of you. There is a couple of things I have heard lately that I wanted to share with you. Our great niece that we stayed with taught us a new prayer and I wanted to share it with you.

"Thank you for the food before us, the friends beside us, and the love between us."

It's so simple yet so right on. It says it all.

Then we saw a billboard down here (they are everywhere) and it said,

"Anyone who can kneel before God can stand before anyone."

That's a great reminder to us all. We serve a mighty God and don't you forget it!!!!!!

I'm missing you all so much. I wish I could give each and everyone of you a big Renee' hug. So this is the best I can do. (OOOOOO XXXXXXX) Of course I had to add a few kisses.

Love you guys. Write when you can. Love Renee'

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Back we go WEST!

Hi all it's been some time since our last post so we should bring you up to date. We have been in Ormond Beach FL. with Renee's brother for the last 6 days. We also spent time with her dad who just moved from Naples, FL. or Ormond. We are back on the road today traveling from Ormond to Tallahassee ( about 4 hours) and stopping for the night. Then we are off Monday to Pensacola, FL. We are making our way back west to meet up with Pastor Terry in Dallas on Friday. We are planning on departing Dallas Sunday and should cross the border next Monday and should be in playa Friday the 30 or 31st. We are to the point of just getting there and start working. The travel has been wonderful and seeing old friends and family is very special but living out of the truck is getting just a little old.
We are looking forward to what God has for us and each day we are thankfull for the blessing God has given us. We miss you all!

Bill

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Pictures Sadona & Savannah








Thought everyone would like to see what we have been walking around in. Savannah is a wonderful city with alot of history. These are squares or Parks
We came across these wind farms and Renee' wanted you to see them. These are in Texas just across the border from New Mexico.






















This is Sadona, AZ. just outside of our hotel room.Quite a view and the color changes when the sun goes down.




Thursday, October 8, 2009

Savannah, GA.

Good Afternoon, or should I say Good Morning? With traveling and the time zone changes it is hard to keep track. We are in Savannah, GA. for the next 3 days for a little down time from driving and to see the sites. Everyone we have talked to tells us this is the place to stay for a rest. We are going to take a city tour and see the layout then check out the sites we want to see.
We spent last night in Charleston, S.C. and walked along the water park and then had dinner on the roof where we where staying. Quite a view of the city and harbor.
One thing I forgot to say about driving in Texas was that we have to get a BIG front Bumper Gaurd and Big side steps for the truck. You can't drive a truck in Texas without these two items. If you do you get funny looks from everyone. I will have to look into adding these items as we are going back to Texas in a couple weeks.
We are having a wonderful time seeing new country and meeting many new people.
Drop us a note when you can!
Love to All
Bill & Renee'

Monday, October 5, 2009

On Our Way East!!!!!

We are in Jackson, TN. tonight Monday. We have been in Texarkana, Little Rock, Memphis, and should be in Nashville Tuesday. Yes, we even drove down Elvis Blvd. and looked at the cars and planes as we drove by. We where going to stop but Elvis was not there. All in All the trip travel has been good no problems. WHAT A BLESSING!!!!!
We are staying in a Marroitt Courtyard tonight so we are off to the pool for a little relax time!!!
See you down the road...
God Bless
Bill & Renee'

Saturday, October 3, 2009

God's Creation (Texas is Texas)

Hi,

What a wonderful creation God has made. As we have traveled we have seen God's hand in the land and the people we have met. Yesterday we came across Texas from the flat land to the green of central Texas. When you first look at the country your eye sees nothing but when you stop and take the time to look you see the wonders that each part of the creation has. God has so much to show us if we take the time to look.
It is a blessing for us to travel as we are taking in the wonders and meeting the different people along the path God has for us.
We are at a large Ranch just out side of Gorman, Texas for a couple of days with Renee's family and what a place. The house sits on 500 acres with all kinds of animals and just a few snakes.
Renee is not going outside much as she does not like snakes at all. It is quite and the views are out of site.
We love and miss you all!

God Bless
Bill

Thursday, October 1, 2009

The Paths We Travel

We have been on the road from Phoenix to Las Cruces (New Mexico) to Odessa Texas where we are staying today. We could not believe the change in the country from the green of Phoenix to the flat land of New Mexico and it has not changed in Texas. You can see for ever and the 85 miles per hour speed limit makes it go by fast!!!! We have been holding the BIG TRUCK back to 70 or so and keeping up with most of the trucks and cars. We stopped at a little cafe this morning for breakfast and it was wonderful. Once we got into Texas we saw our first of many oil wells and storage tanks they go on for miles.
Did you know we have a U.S. Border Inspection Station between New Mexico and Texas well there is one everyone Trucks and Cars must stop. I did not know we sold New Mexico!!!!
We saw alot of train traffic yesterday long, long trains all day and then today we pass the biggest dairy farm I have ever seen there must have been a 1,000 cows over miles of pens. Quite a Site! (from Bill)

My Turn: We just finished spending time with my sister, niece and great nephew. It was great. We had a very good visit. I hadn't seen my sister in 6 years and my niece in 9 to 10 years and never had I seen my great nephew, Logan. Logan is 6 almost 7. He is a delight. He really took to Bill and that was fun to watch. I felt my visit with my sister was very healing for both of us. We talked about letting the past go and live in the present. My prayer for my sister is she is truly loved by God and all things are possible with God. He is the great healer.

Tomorrow we are off to see my sister's other daughter and her family. After we leave there Bill and I will have eight days together to get to the East coast. Thanks to our new navigator (GPS) who we named Chicka we should do just fine.

We miss each and everyone of you. God bless. Renee'

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Support Questions

Hi All, we have had a couple of questions from people that may want to support the Missions House in Mexico. If you feel God is leading you to help then all you would have to do is send a check to Yucatan Outreach Ministries at the address in Anchorage on our contact sheet. Just put Bill & Renee' Johnson in the MEMO Line. That is all you have to do. We cannot tell you how much each of you mean to us and we know God will provide.

God Bless
Bill & Renee,

God's Creation



These are just a few photos above of the Grand Canyon. We had a great time taking in the views and seeing all the God has Made. Below is a photo of Zion National Park which we took in as a side trip on the way to the Canyon.
We had blessing after blessing on this part of our trip as we where going to pay 25.00 entry fee at both parks but when we pulled up the ranger told us it was a free day. That is 50.00 dollars we did not have to pay. Then when we got to the Grand Canyon we found out there were NO rooms open. We walked around for a hour or so and then Renee' went back into just to check (I was getting post cards) and they had a room. We had a wonderful room, great dinner, and walked around the park the rest of the day. God is Good!!!!
Hi everyone, it is now my turn. As you can see God is the great designer. The sights were a lot to take in at one time.
The last time we did a posting we had left off in Soap Lake, WA. It was so good seeing our good friends, "The Wrens" then later in our trip we stopped off and saw Shirley, Andy and their family. They were in the same home group as the Wrens. With both families it was just like yesterday we were together. I keep coming back to relationships. That is all that really matters. God made us to be relational and not to do life by ourselves. I can't encourage you enough to stay connected with others. A couple of things Wren said to me that stuck was we believe in the God of the Universe. Wow how powerful is that. Also he mentioned that it is good to talk to us not just about God but the Living God!!! We also stopped in Walla Walla, Wash. where my Dad is from. I haven't been there in 30 years. A lot has changed yet alot is the same. We were able to stop there and see some old friends of my Mom and Dad's. It was really cool to see My Grandmother's old church where she use to take me. Grandma was really my spiritual mentor. It all started at that church going to Sunday School, vacation bible school and of course learning to fix communion with all the elderly ladies of the church. I loved it.
We are in Sedona, AZ. today. It is beautiful. Red dirt and rocks everywhere. We are off to see my sister and one of her daughters tomorrow in Phoenix.
Thank you for following our blog. Please leave comments as we would love to hear from you. Love Renee'






Monday, September 21, 2009

Soap Lake, Washington

Hi all, we are in Soap Lake, Washington with our friends Mike and Sue Wren. We all where in Anchorage together and the same small group. What a wonderful time of fellowship and talking about how God has touch our lives. We will be on the road Tuesday to Walla Walla to check out some things for Renee's dad and see the country. Then off to see the Grand Canyon and into
Arizona to see Renee's sister.
God has been directing our path all the way down as we see all that he has created and our path through it. What a ride!!!! Renee' and I have been praying that we stay in the center of what God has for us and that we trust him. WE know that God will provide all of our needs no matter the concern.
We will try and post again later this week all depends on enter net connection.

Love you all, God Bless
Bill & Renee'

Monday, September 14, 2009

We Made It!!!

Should I say we made it to Seattle! We drove into Monroe, Washington at 6:00pm and I was glad to get on my leg's again. The trip down was wonderful and not one problem we give God the glory for a safe trip. We are going to spend four or five days with my brother then off to see Mike Wren and his family in Soap Lake, Washington.

Animal update we added to our list a wolf, lamas, horses, cows and we took on 7 tunnels and loved driving into them. Our love to all!!!!

Bill & Renee'

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Friends Along The Alaska Highway







Friday was the day for us to see the animals along the path from Whitehorse to Fort Nelson. We would come around a corner ( about 60) and everyone was stopped. We caught this brown bear digging for roots. He did not even give us the time of day. Renee' would not let me get out of the car so this is what you get. Then later I see a couple of buffalo laying beside the road and of course Renee' misses them so we turn a corner or two and there they are!!!! They seem pretty small to me when I am in my BIG truck but they are a site to see!!!! We had about a 50 mile break and where talking about not seeing any caribou and we come around another corner and they are in the road. We just could not believe it!!!!

Then almost to Fort Nelson we see something along the road bouncing up and down ( I thought it was a dog) but it was a good size Black Bear playing in the weeds. It was so fast that we got stopped but it was gone. All in All it was a wonderful day of seeing the animals it was like a personal tour.

We are in Prince George tonight (Sat.) and should be in Seattle Sun. night. We still don't have cell service and I think it should click on when we get back into the states. We have had a great trip no problems and I still don't believe the road. Paved all the way (60 to 70) without any problems. We pray that you all are well and we will see you down the road!

God Bless

Bill & Renee,


Thursday, September 10, 2009

ON THE ROAD Day 1 & 2

Well this is day 2 of our road trip and we are in Whitehorse. So far the trip has been wonderful and the road has been great. Today we left Beaver Creek and we saw two moose and a big brown bear we have pictures and will post them later. We did a short day today and will have a good dinner tonight and drive to Watson Lake Friday. If we feel good we may push on past Watson Lake but we will see. (Bill)

Well now it's my turn. Yesterday (Wednesday) was pretty emotional as you can imagine. It was hard saying good bye to our kids and our grandchildren but I have to remind myself that they are in God's hands not mine. We were totally blessed yesterday morning as we were leaving Anchorage by our friends calling and texting us. It was great. It's like each and everyone of you is on this journey with us. It was a good reminder to us that life is really all about the relationships. Things can't fill that need only people can and I thank you for that. I hope this finds you all well and safe. Talk to you later down the road.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

What a Hat!!!!

OK, we have the correct hat and Renee' is in the truck so we are almost ready. Not quite everything is in the truck but Wed. morning we are on the road. It's been a long 8 weeks trying to see everyone and if we did not get to see you we will be in contact via phone or email. We just ran out of time.
We had a wonderful time with our Kids on Monday Randy and his family had everyone over for a BBQ. Boy what a group when we get everyone together. Tim and his family could not make it on Monday but we had breakfast with him today. Cory and his family came back from camping over the long weekend and that was very special to us. We have been getting everyone set up on Skype and that should make the move south better as we can see and talk with everyone. We are even going to try and be a part of our Monday night small group in Anchorage via Skype once we land in Mexico.
Renee' and I had a special time of prayer with Wendy, Cheryl, and Nola at the Alaska Native Hospital as Wendy and Nola where working. God has given us such a gift of these prayer partner's and we are thankful they are in our lives.
Please pray for our safety during our travels and that we can make a difference for God during our trip. Remember we are all called to be on Mission no matter where we are at!!

God Bless
Pastor Bill & Renee'
(See you in Mexico!)

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Last Items

We are moved! The truck is packed, we are staying with our son (Cory) and his family this week. Boy, we have just been going every day with last items needing to be done. The truck went in today for a check up then to the bank for some last items to sign. Renee' is still working her last day is Friday (22 years) with Superior. We are looking forward to sleeping in just once before we hit the road. As it looks now we will be one the road as of Wed. the 9th if all goes as planned.
We have found a sweet time of prayer together each night trusting God for his plan for us. As the time gets closer we find a little bet of hesitation in leaving after 40+ years in Anchorage. We leave family, friends, and our church family and we will miss them all. We will be updating the blog as we travel so please check in with us.
May Gods Blessing be with you and your family we love you all!!!!

Pastor Bill & Renee'

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

JUST ENOUGH LIGHT FOR THE STEP I'M ON


As you can see boxes are everywhere. The other night as Bill and I were getting ready to go to bed I told him I need to leave the fan light on in the kitchen so I can see the way to the bathroom at night. I got up in the middle of the night and there was my path to the bathroom. I said out loud thank you Lord. It's just enough light to find my way. A smile came on my face. A couple of nights earlier I turned on the hall light and it blinded me. I couldn't see the path. The light was to bright. Then there's been nights with no light was on at all and I stumbled and bumped into the boxes. I am a visual learner and how this experience spoke to me was when there is too much light I'm blinded. I can't focus. When there is no light I stumble and fall. But when there's just enough light God provides all my needs. Just follow God and he will provide the light for the step you're on.
Love,
Renee'