A Leap of Faith - From Colorado, U.S.A. to Sofia, Bulgaria

Hello Dear Friends and Family,

I am pleased and honored to share with you some exciting news! For a while I have felt God’s calling on my heart to serve overseas. However, it was not until I learned of a unique opportunity in

Bulgaria, to serve as a teacher, that it was confirmed in my heart. After several weeks of prayer, I applied for the teaching position and was hired as a teacher at Sofia Christian Academy for the

2015-2016 school year.While overseas, I will be serving with the organization Mission to the World. Sofia Christian Academy is associated with Mission to the World. While there, I will be overseeing the education of missionary children from various organizations. I will be one of two full-time teachers working at the school and personally I will be instructing five different grade levels, specializing in English and literature.

Along with teaching at the school, I will also be helping in various additional local ministries, alongside current team members. At present there is a significant need for ministerial help in Bulgaria and therefore my present objective is to be overseas by the beginning of September. If you are feeling God’s call to partner with me in this ministry, there are two ways that you can do so. First, I am in serious need of financial support. Since, I will be serving as a missionary, I am required to raise

my own funds for travel costs, as well finances to cover administration, ministry costs, and insurance, along with all of my living expenses while overseas.

My current need is: $31,050.47 – No, that is not a typo. Although this is a large figure, this amount is

recommended for a missionary serving with Mission to the World for ten-months and for the most part I was not able to modify their budget. Regardless of this though, I strongly believe that since God has called me to Bulgaria, he will provide. For more clarification, only about a third of this sum will need to be raised by the time of my departure; whereas the larger amount is required to be pledged. If you would like to give to my ministry in this way, donations can be given online at donations.mtw.org - my account number for reference is: #11442. 

A second, and equally important way in which I need assistance is through prayer. For more specific details on this see please the prayer points listed below:

• God’s provision for financial support before leaving for Bulgaria.

• Smooth and easy access of required documentation needed for my visa.

• Peace and patience throughout the upcoming months of transition.

• Positive closure to my current summer nanny position.

In advance I would like to thank you for your support, encouragement, and prayers. They mean so very much! If you would like to continue to receive updates on the progress of my journey feel free to 

Cora Cummins

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who

proclaims peace, who brings glad tidings of good things, who proclaims salvation,

who says to Zion, “Your God reigns!” - Isaiah 52:7

An Exciting (And Scary) New Adventure...

Hello family and friends:

It has been a while since I have posted anything here but, with some exciting news to share, I thought it was time to post again!

For quite a while I have felt God's calling on my life to serve over-seas in some capacity, but I have never fully known in what way. Last month however,  I heard of a unique opportunity to serve as a teacher in Sofia, Bulgaria, at Sofia Christian Academy. Initially, I was hesitant. However, after considering if for some time I felt God prodding my heart to pursue the opportunity.

With the support of my amazing family and boyfriend, I applied for the position, began communicating with the school board, and eventually interviewed. As the process progressed things seemed in my favor and I felt a great sense of peace about the whole situation.

Just last week I was notified that I have been hired at Sofia Christian Academy for the 2015-2016 school year! I am so overwhelming excited and blessed to have been given this incredible opportunity!

Currently I am going through the approval process to go as an "intern" with the missions organization Mission to the World. Before I am able to go to Bulgaria however, there are multiple hoops I will need to jump through.

First, I will need to be approved by Mission to the World. Once this is done they will be able to help me begin raising my funds. (I will be considered a missionary and will therefore be required to raise a currently unknown amount to cover my airfare, visa and passport costs, and my living expenses while in-country).

Secondly, like I just mentioned, I will need to apply for and obtain a visa to stay in Bulgaria for roughly eleven months.

Third, I will need to begin raising support and gaining prayer partners, both of which will be extremely crucial to my time in Bulgaria.

In conclusion, for now, I would like to mention just a few prayer requests:

1. Favor and good timing in completing the Mission to the World internship process, as well as the passport and visa processes.

2.  The Lord's provision in funds to cover all of the aforementioned expenses.

3. Patience and peace throughout the entire process.


As this process progresses I will continue to post updates here. If at any point you would like to know additional details, please let me know! Thank you in advance for all of your prayers and support!

Much love and many blessings,

Cora

ADHD: The Biggest Relationship Blessing

Countless articles and blog posts have been written for the benefit of individuals in a relationship with someone with ADHD. These articles often give relationship advice, discussing how to "cope" with the side-affects of ADHD in your partner, along with attempting to explain what a future with your significant other could look like. The underlining theme of all of these articles, regardless of their specific topic or writing competence, is that people, in these relationships, need to be open-minded and aware of what ADHD really is.

Although these articles present a valiant effort, I believe that there is a serious gap between the opinions of those 'on the outside looking in' and those living and loving in these ADHD relationships. Therefore, I propose sharing my own relationship story as a different look into an ADHD relationship.

For the last ten and a half months I have been dating by best friend, Joseph Rattle. If you know Joseph and are close to him, he may have shared with you that he has ADHD*.

When I met Joseph, I was completely unaware that he exhibited characteristics of ADHD. To my knowledge, I had never interacted with anyone specifically who had it and therefore, I was almost completely unaware of what it would look like in someone. Joseph was everything I wanted in a man though. He was godly, kind, sweet, patient, thoughtful, a good listener, and a wonderful friend. He far surpassed any of my previous images of a significant other.

When we met, we were both working at a summer camp and after seeing each other on a daily basis for months it because very evident to both of us that we saw something deeper and more serious in each other than simply friendship.

After we started dating and began learning more about each other, Joseph vulnerably shared with me about his ADHD, how it affects his life, and has created fears and insecurities about the future. He shared with me how ADHD had created struggles at points in his life and how occasionally he has been forced to restructure or handle situations differently because of it. However, never once did he act like a martyr or expect to be treated differently than anyone else.

I would be lying if I said that Joseph's ADHD has not affected our relationship. However, by no means has it been a negative asset for us. At points it has been challenging. We have had to work extra hard sometimes to accomplish tasks, organize for life, or plan activities, but all of these have been a good thing, giving us even more quality time together as a couple.

Yes, being in a relationship with someone with ADHD is different, but every relationship is different. Is it hard to love someone with ADHD? No! Falling in love with Joseph was one of the most natural things I've ever done.

All this being said however, I acknowledge that my future will look differently. Loving and living in a relationship with someone with ADHD may be a challenge at times; however, I see my relationship with Joseph, as the biggest blessing I've ever had. Loving him has taught me so many lessons.

First, I have learned that patience is key. Every relationship takes patience. Your significant other is bound to do or say things that bother will you every now and then, he/she is certain to have flaws that will need time for improvement. Without or without ADHD, patience is so important to the success of a relationship.

Second, flexibility is vital. Being in a relationship requires a significant amount of flexibility. In our relationship, there are times when addressing Joseph's ADHD or spending additional time working on something is more important than following a strict schedule or plan. However, although flexibility has been helpful in an ADHD relationship, it can be useful in all relationships as well.

The third thing I've learned is that attention is meaningful. From Joey I have learned that to someone with ADHD receiving attention is very important. Not only is quality time his top love language but attention truly helps him feel needed and appreciated. For example, it is extremely significant to him when I take the time to listen, or simply spend time doing something silly with him.

A fourth thing I have learned from being in a relationship with Joseph is that communication is essential. While being in a relationship with someone with ADHD, communication is paramount. It is unbelievably important to talk through things. When there is a lack of communication there is a lack of reassurance and a greater amount of distrust, fear, and confusion. The easiest way to handle this is to simply talk, share, and communicate.

The last and final thing I've learned from being in an ADHD relationship is that not being serious doesn't mean there is a lack of maturity. Although some people may consider individuals with ADHD to be immature due to their hobbies, pastimes, or carefree nature at points, I have discovered that individuals with ADHD often use silliness or playful pastimes to cope with the stress and pressure that normal life offers them. It is a way to break out of that norm and enjoy themselves and life. Although others may see this as immaturity, I consider it to be quite the opposite because these individuals have discovered a way to live their lives in a balanced way.

Okay, so I've rambled on and on about ADHD, my relationship, and my insights on the topic. However by no means do I claim to be an expert. I merely desired to share my own personal relationship story in an effort to raise awareness about ADHD. I wanted to share that ADHD individuals, although different from others, are unique, special and valuable in relationships and although a future and relationship with them may appear different, I know that if you open your heart to one, they will love you faithfully.

*Note: Joseph has read, approved, and is comfortable with all of this post and is honored to share his story with me.

Seeking Joy in the Seemingly Mundane

Joy can be allusive. Joy can seem far from reach. Joy can appear to be a needle in a haystack.  Joy can be sought after but never found. Joy can be grasped for but never achieved.

Do any of these statements resonate with you? They often do for me.

Today I chose to visit the library and enjoy some time reading and relaxing. I was not familiar with the library so after walking around for a bit I picked a random table in the back hoping for some peace and quiet.

Not even moments later though I heard something... people laughing and talking. Who is that? I wondered. Isn't a library suppose to be quiet? 

My first reaction was frustration. Why are these people being noisy? I am trying to read. Then I realized who I was hearing. It was a group of special needs individuals around the corner from me. They were smiling and laughing and enjoying themselves. It was obviously so genuine that they couldn't hold it in. It was beautiful!

From that moment on my attitude changed. Instead of frustration, I felt blessed to have been led to the table. It seemed almost providential to have heard those happy voices because I need a reminder on joy.

I truly needed to be reminded that joy can be found anywhere.

As the giver of all joy,  I believe that God desires us to find joy in the small things of life. He desires us to live a life of joy and not one of despair. So even though for me coming to the library was a small and seemingly unimportant outing, I was blessed to be reminded that joy was literally right around the corner.

I wasn't looking for it when I found joy today but I can guarantee that from now on I will be searching.

So, regardless of your circumstances or struggles today, where have you seen joy? Like it was for me, it may just be right around the corner. Don't miss out of seeing it!

My Recent Florida Adventures

As I mentioned in my previous blog post, I was recently given the opportunity to travel to Florida and work as an on-the-road nanny. This blog post will highlight some of the neat things that I was able to do on my trip.

December 8 (1:20 pm): I departed from Oklahoma City and flew to Dallas where my family picked me up. I was able to spend roughly 24 hours with them before I left for Florida the next day.
December 9 (3:55 pm): I flew out of Dallas with the Bartlett family, the family for which I would be working, after meeting up with them at their home and traveling to the airport together.
         

The three Bartlett children and I
at the Orlando Airport.

(7:22 pm) We arrived in Orlando, Florida and then drove to the home we would be renting in Davenport for the duration of our stay.
December 10: We relaxed for the majority of the day and then visited the Magic Kingdom that evening. We rode several rides, watch a Disney show and took a few pictures with the characters.
December 11: Spent time at Hollywood Studios for most of the day. Got to ride several rides, visited Oaken's Outpost, saw a car tricks show, as well as a Frozen singalong.

December 12: The kids spent time with their Father at LegoLand allowing the Grandma, Mom, and I to do some shopping.
December 13: Together as a whole family we visited Downtown Disney. The children, Grandma, and I watched Penguins of Madagascar while the parents watched Mockingjay (Part 1).  Following that we walked around the rest of Downton Disney.

Silly faces outside the Downtown Disney
Starbucks. 

Selfie on the Animal Kingdom Safari. 

December 14: We visited the Animal Kingdom. While there we drove several rides, went on an animal safari adventure, took pictures with several characters, and visited a petting zoo.

December 15: As the children were waking up this morning one of the kids felt sick and ended up throwing up so the Grandmother stayed home with him while the rest of the family drove an hour and a half to spend the day at Clearwater Beach Island. Overall this was probably my favorite day of the trip. It was fun and relaxing and the beach was just beautiful!

Walking along the boardwalk at sunset.

December 16: On this day we went back to the Magic Kingdom for the Christmas Party, which took place after the traditional park hours. That day we spent a significant amount of time at the park, taking pictures and riding rides. At the end of the day everyone was tired out!
December 17: Since it was Ranger (the middle child)'s birthday, the family decided to go back to Clearwater Beach Island, because he had been sick the first time we went. Since I had already been there with the family, they were gracious enough to allow me to stay home. I was able to workout, rest, catch up with family and friends, and overall relax. It was very nice!
December 18: Because the 18th was the Mother's birthday, we went together, back to Downtown Disney, along with the Father to watch the Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies. Overall, I really enjoyed the movie and it was fun getting to watch it with them!
December 19: Friday morning the Mother and I woke up early and drove to the Magic Kingdom to be there when it opened at eight. For close to four hours we walked around the park taking pictures with the characters. Some of which included: Elsa, Anna, Cinderella, Rapunzel, Ariel, Pooh, Tiger, Daisy and Donald Duck, and Minnie and Mickey. The remainder of the day involved packing up and preparing to fly back to Texas.
December 20: Saturday morning we packed everything into the van and drove to Tampa, Florida to catch our flight. It ended up being delayed by an hour so we were able to take our time getting out of the house as well as going through security at the airport. After several hours I had made it home and was able to rest and relax with my family.

Since arriving home I have been able to rest up and hangout with my family, which has been very nice. This week I will be celebrating Christmas with my immediate family, as as well as spending time with our Aunt Lori and my boyfriend Joey. I am looking forward to some more rest and relaxation before I head back to Florida for another month with the Bartlett family. However, I am also missing 'my' three sweet kiddos as well.

As I prepare and eventually head back to Florida I would greatly appreciate your prayers!

Please pray for:

• Good Health (specifically that I don't develop any motion sickness on my flights)
• Energy and Stamina
• Direction for what is next...

Thank you so much for your prayers and support! Much love! Merry Christmas! 

A Belated Thanksgiving Reflection

The other day, in the midst of some rather stressful and overwhelming things, I was convicted of something that I felt the need to share. Thankfulness.

As I eluded to just moments ago, I have been going through some challenges lately. In the days surrounding Thanksgiving I was home with my boyfriend, Joey, spending time with my family. It seemed like the picture-perfect time; family, friends, food, and quality time. We were thrilled to get this opportunity to spend time together as our family is quickly 'growing up' and our family dynamics are rapidly changing. In the middle of this special time I received a phone call from a family that I formerly worked for. They were inviting me to join them on their family vacation as their on-the-road-nanny. I was thrilled. Nannying is something I have enjoyed in the past and feel fulfilled doing. I automatically felt an immense peace from the Lord and after discussing it with my family, I agreed to accept the job.

Unfortunately however, when I address the situation with my landlady a domino effect happened, which regardless of my original intentions, led to me moving out shortly after my return to Oklahoma.

To my embarrassment and dismay, I allowed this situation and the surrounding conflict to take the forefront of my mind and during this time I completely forgot to be thankful for... anything. All I could focus on were the negatives in my life, the things that were going wrong, and what I could have...or should have done differently to prevent the unfortunate outcome.

The other day though, as I was packing my things up and cleaning the house, I felt God say to me: "Stop complaining and be thankful!" Until then it hadn't even crossed my mind that I had completely forgotten to be thankful.

Therefore, over these last few days, although they have been tough with moving out and transitioning to another 'chapter' of my life, I have attempted to focus more on the things for which I am thankful.

Some of those things, among many are: my family (My parents, siblings, and Grandparents), my boyfriend, Joey, my countless friends, and my church family. Overall, I am so very blessed and although my life isn't perfect; what I have learned from this conviction is this: Life will never be perfect and if I am waiting for that time to praise God and be thankful then I'll be waiting for ever. Instead, I should choose to focus on God and the blessings he has given me in the midst of struggles, as well as life in general.

So my challenge to you is this: Regardless of your circumstances, what are you thankful for?

Jeremiah 29:11 - What Exactly Does It Mean? (A 20 Year Old's Perspective and Opinion)

For countless years, the verse Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." has been shared with me. I've been reminded of it over and over again, through graduation cards, "pep-talks", and prayers; however, I've never fully allowed this verse to sink in and resonate with me. Recently however due to my current life circumstances, I've begun to formulate an opinion and perspective on it and decided it was time to share.

*Discloser* If you decide to keep reading, keep this in mind: I am by no means a Biblical scholar. I'm not claiming that my perspective is the only one or indeed the best one. Instead I share it as my opinion and perspective on this well-known verse. Enjoy!

For so long, I was under the naive assumption that God's plans for my life would be shared with me, perhaps in some kind of 'Life Manual' or 'How To Tackle This Decision' pamphlet prior to any large life choices, decisions, or experiences. I hoped and prayed that God would direct me and tell me what to do and more specifically what would happen in my future. I didn't want to go through the tough patches before reaching God's, or more honestly, my dream life scenario.

Over these last few weeks, I have found myself struggling with my current life situations. At points I've felt discontent, discouraged, useless, unappreciated, and frustrated with everything going on. Last week specifically was a challenge. Early on in the week, two PR related jobs for which I had applied turned me down and things at Swadley's were continually getting worse as the week went on. My tip revenue was low, there was a significant amount of co-worker drama, and the manager's all appeared to be grumpy leading to a even more unpleasant work atmosphere. I was just overall overwhelmed and frustrated and suddenly found myself upset with God. I questioned him asking why things were going so poorly and why he wasn't giving me the dream job, ideal work environment, and salary that I truly desired.

It was during one of these long and arduous work shifts though, that the phrase "Bloom where you are planted" came to mind. I quickly realized and began to remind myself over and over, that flowers do not choose where they are planted. They don't decide on the soil, proximity to shade, or location geographically. They don't complain because they are too close to a lake or too far away from other daisies. Instead they bloom. Because, regardless of where they are, the sun still shines and the rain still falls to provide and nurture.

While pondering on this, a metaphor was brought to my mind. We, as Christians do not decide where we are placed, what skills and gifts we are born with or even how many of the situations in our live will unfold. We are all placed in the midst of trials and tribulations at times and not understand why. However, regardless or the chaos, God still provides. He brings the sun and the rain to help us grow and nurture and perhaps when he sees that we are ready he will scoop us up and show us the next step in our lives. Until then however, we can learn a lesson from the flower and just bloom! Instead of complaining and questioning God's plans we can just bloom. We can trust that his plans are just like he promised, plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future.