Happy New Year

Moving on Class Spotlight

Christ Community Church
Huntersville, NC

We just finished our Fall Just Moved! class - our biggest yet at 19 members! Such a blessing for all of us to be a part of!

This is a photo from this week's "graduation" celebration! (four women were unfortunately not in the picture.)

After breaking for the holidays, we plan to begin praying for and planning our One-day Spring Just Moved Conference.

Leadership team: Julie Tipton, Marjorie Newhook, Janelle Kjolen, Melissa Winters, and Mary Ann Vickers

December Devotional

Will you trust?

An angel ushered Zacharias and Mary in to a miraculous story of mystery and wonder far beyond the scope of their individual lives. Zacharias would be the father of John the Baptist and Mary the mother of Jesus. Zacharias needed to know the certainty of events yet to come; Mary received this sudden change in her life in faith and trust.

Scripture to Remember:

"And Zacharias said to the angel, ‘How shall I know this for certain?'" Luke 1:18

"And Mary said, ‘Behold, ...be it done to me according to your word.'" Luke 1:38

Question to Consider:

Has your life been redirected in an unexpected and, perhaps, unwanted way? God is asking you to trust Him as He invites you into a life of mystery and wonder. He is using your circumstances to not only shape your mind, heart, and spirit, but to affect your family and community - perhaps even the world. Will you choose to believe this - with faith and trust?

Prayer:

Lord, I trust you with my circumstances and my future. I choose to believe that you are doing something wonderful through them and I say ‘be it done to me according to your word.'

Thought for the day:

Today I will wear my watch or bracelet on the opposite wrist. Each time I take notice of it I will say aloud or silently to myself, "I choose to trust God with my circumstances."

-Ann Kelley

What ministry leaders are saying about Just Moved Ministry

Dr. Dennis Rainey

President, FamilyLife

Just Moved Ministry picks up where the moving van drops off. Through their Moving On classes, marriages are strengthened during the stress of relocation, parents are equipped to help their children cope with a move, and women are given biblical principles and encouragement.

John Trent, Ph.D.
Author: Encouraging Words
President of StrongFamilies.com

Susan is doing a tremendous job of helping women deal with the trauma of transition. Her material can help anyone who wants to move ahead in a healthy way after they have experienced a move or major adjustment. I highly recommend her work shops and materials.

Barbara Johnson
Author: Stick a Geranium in Your Hat and Be Happy

Susan Miller's After the Boxes Are Unpacked, is a handbook of suggestions and encouragement, not just to those who are moving, but to all of us. This book will enrich lots of folks who have felt pangs of grief over our losses because it teaches us how to survive our losses. I LOVED IT!

Keith Carlson
Pastor, Adult Ministries
Johnston Evangelical Free Church
Johnston, Iowa

Thank you for your ministry. I have personally met some of the ladies from our community who have come here to attend the Newcomer's study and I want you to know that it is working, and working well. I was so impressed when I saw the number of ladies who attended, all who were brand new visitors to our church. This is very exciting to watch. Who knows what God may do through all whose lives are being touched.

Aileen Ostendorff
Family Life Ministries
Little Rock, Arkansas

Your ministry has had such a huge impact here at Family Life as we use Susan\'s book with every new gal who comes.

Dianne Christensen

Director of Women’s Ministry

Hoffmantown Church, Albuquerque, NM

I deal with many organizations in my ministry here and Just Moved reflects excellence and encouragement. Your staff reflects Christ’s character and my dealings with them have been affirming that this ministry direction is of the Lord’s leading. Thank you!

Tips for Moving On

Gift-Giving Ideas for Far Flung Friends and Family

If you're far from family and friends, but plan to send them Christmas gifts, how do you do it in a way that doesn't require collecting boxes from the produce department of the grocery store, searching for the bag of packaging peanuts that you're sure you saved last summer, and standing in line at the post office? Here are a few ideas to simplify long-distance gift giving.

Give to a favorite charity
Does Mom volunteer at the Humane Society? Your brother, Bill, sings in a community choir? Let them know that you will be giving a donation to their organizations to show support for what is important to them.

Pay for a helpful service
Is your closest friend hosting the family or the company party for Christmas? Arrange to pay for a cleaning service to spruce up her house and give her one less responsibility.

Gift Cards
Purchase and send gift cards for restaurants or stores that you know are in the area. National chains like Starbucks and Home Depot are everywhere!

Event Tickets
By using the internet, you can learn about upcoming concerts and events in any city in the world. Do a little research in the area where your loved ones live and purchase tickets for them to an event you know they'll love.

Buy on line
Order gifts through the internet and have them mailed directly to the recipients. Many online businesses offer free shipping for a minimum purchase.

Magazine Subscription
Buy a gift subscription for a magazine that pertains to the interests of a long-distance loved one. There are magazines to suit everyone's interests: from outdoor living to needlepoint, from Civil War history to video games.

Outdoor Adventure!
Through the internet you can purchase an exciting adventure for the outdoor enthusiast on your list. With just the click of a mouse you can find hot-air balloon rides or river kayaking lessons that are offered around the country.

Invest in an Interest
Does your brother-in-law enjoy playing golf, but wishes he was better? Arrange for a lesson with a golf pro in his area. Does your sister enjoy cooking? Purchase a gift certificate for her to take a cooking class at a local kitchen store. Do they wish that they had more time together? Pay for some ballroom dancing lessons! (Think... "Dancing with the Stars"!)

No matter what you choose to send your loved ones this Christmas, be sure to express your love and appreciation for each person. Be specific! Tell each person at least one quality that you love about him or her.

-Ann Kelley

A Mover's Story

December 2010

When it seems that nothing turns out right...

Sheila in Texas

As I write this email, my eyes are welled up with tears of desperation. I feel overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated, and confused. Nothing we do turns out right. I don't understand why we are going through this. I feel God has abandoned us.

We came to Texas because my husband was out of work for eight months and got a job offer here. We left our families and home of ten years in Wisconsin. We were so glad to have a job opportunity, that I never thought this move would be so hard on me and the children.

I cry every day, and I think there is something wrong with me. Our house in Wisconsin hasn't sold and we may be facing foreclosure. My two boys are not adjusting in school. They are a mess, and my marriage is a mess, not to mention I'm a disaster! I don't know what to do and where to turn. I found your website, and for the first time feel a glimmer of hope that somebody understands me and might be able to help me get through this. I know we should be going to church. Can you recommend a good church that offers a Moving On class in my area?

(editor: Susan Miller called Sheila and encouraged her with God's word and prayed with her on the phone. She gave Sheila the name of a great church nearby and called the Moving On After Moving In group leader who quickly contacted Sheila and invited her to the study the next week. Sheila keeps in touch and shares how God is working through this crisis in her life.)

Monthly Challenge- Sept 2010

Challenge 56

“But blessed is the man who trusts Me,...the woman who sticks with God.
They're like trees replanted in Eden, putting down roots near the rivers—
Never a worry through the hottest of summers, never dropping a leaf,
Serene and calm through droughts, bearing fresh fruit every season.”
Jeremiah 17:8 (The Message)

Let Go: What has this season in life brought you? Change? Uncertainty? Loneliness?

Start Over: You may feel that your roots in a new community or a new phase in your life are too new and too shallow, but your roots in God can go deeper than they’ve ever been. Dig deeply in the rich “soil” that is God’s word and His promises and you will find refreshment for your soul and a miraculous serenity in the midst of “drought.”

Move Ahead: Start memorizing scripture that will remind you of the truth that God is with you in this transition. When you find yourself doubting, be strengthened by these verses.

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled,nor let it be fearful.
Isaiah 40:28-31
...Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength. They will mount up with wings like eagles. They will run and not get tired. They will walk and not become weary.
Isaiah 41:10
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Psalm 37:3-5
Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him and He will do it.
Joshua 1:9
....Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Harrison United Methodist Church
Charlotte, NC
Class Leader – Anita King
http://www.harrisonumc.org/

Class “Day Away”

Our Moving On After Moving In class took a day trip up to the North Carolina mountains and visited the Biltmore Estate while we were there. Spouses and children joined in the adventure and it was a great time of fellowship and fun!

Harrison Church started offering Moving On groups over two years ago now and each time we offer the class the participants have loved it– they learn about our local community and find and share resources together. They have developed friendships that continue on after the class is over, as well as connections to the different ministries available at our church. This is a non-threatening way to connect with others who are new to the community and who share a common goal:to get connected.

Our next class will start on September 15, 2010 and will run on Wednesday mornings from 10 to noon. We’d love to have you join us!

Moving Tips- Sept 2010

Tips for a Winning Move
OR Lessons from the gridiron

What is it that signals Fall for you? Is it the leaves as they take on rich tones of red and gold or their musty aroma after they’ve fallen to the earth? Is it the start of a new school year and the laughter of children on the school playground? Muggy, hot air giving way to cooler temperatures? Sure, it may be all of the above, but for many households it’s the whistles, grunts, and familiar voices of Monday night football emanating from the TV. You may or may not be the one sitting down to enjoy a game, but you have more in common with those brawny players than you know.

Like an ‘away’ game, you may be running on the unfamiliar turf of a new home, and Just Moved Ministry is cheering you from the sidelines as you kickoff the fall and “press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14)

A quarterback never steps on the field without checking in with the coach or listening and watching for his signals. You, too, are the “ball carrier” for your move and your team (family members) moving with you. God cares deeply about every part of your move and is going to coach you to a victorious transition. Don’t try to win this game on your own! Take some time to put together a game plan.

1. Go deep

Spend some time every day in God’s Word. This indispensable Playbook will encourage, instruct, and inspire. After the move, find a Bible Study that you can be a part of. A Moving On After Moving In class or any other Bible study will help you to feel part of a team and keep you running in the right direction.

2. Huddle up

During a move everyone in the family needs to “huddle up” together to stay connected, be informed, and receive instruction. Even a teenager who mayact as if he or she wants to pull away really wants to be included. This is your opportunity to fill everyone in on the progress of the move and to check on each other’s emotional, spiritual, and physical status.

3. Time out

Grab every chance that you can to have some down time. Whether you’re waiting for your son’s piano lesson to end, the little ones have gone down for a nap, or you find yourself home alone, fix a cool drink and put your feet up or go for an energizing walk. While you will be tempted to make every moment “productive”, sometimes quiet rest or alone time is the most productive thing you can do.

4. Lateral pass

A quarterback would never make it through an entire game if he never passed the ball off to a teammate. Ask for help from family members and friends. Be willing to delegate tasks and to enlist the aid of friends. Jonny could pack his own toys, daughter Sara could fill out change of address forms, and packing (or unpacking) could become a social event with a few friends.

5. Don’t sweat a fumble

Even the best players may fumble the ball. Interference, interceptions, and incompletion may cause you to fumble the ball, but it doesn’t have to mean that you’ll lose the “moving game.” Just because you snapped at your kids, packed the overdue library books, or feel waves of anxiety over this move, doesn’t mean that you can’t recover the ball and continue on toward the goal. Expect setbacks. Expect a loss of yardage. But keep your eyes on the goal and don’t lose hope. Check in with The Coach for the next play.

6. Double team

A particularly formidable opponent often calls for “doubling teaming”. According to James Alder’s Guide to Football, this is “playing two defensive players against one offensive player in order to prevent him from making a play.” Satan wants to tackle you, rob you of your joy, and fill you with all kinds of worries. But Scripture assures us of this: "For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst." (Matthew 18:20) and “...greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4) Commit to pray with your husband, with a friend (on the phone or skype if you need to), or with a pastor or mentor against Satan’s attacks during a time when you may be exhausted and vulnerable.

7. Play offense

Write out the steps for reaching your goal of a smooth move (see our Moving Countdown). Don’t try to keep it all in your head. When you’ve created a list of the myriad tasks to accomplish, you’ll get more done, use your time more efficiently, forget fewer things, enjoy the satisfaction of ticking them off, get a little less crazy, and do less last-minute scrambling.

8. Be patient with personal fouls

A personal foul may be called in football for (among other things) late hits and unnecessary roughness. You may experience “late hits” by your teenager who is dreading the move. Moving is especially challenging for teens and you may find yourself the target of your teen’s frustration over having to leave friends and familiarity. Assure him or her of your love and Christ’s promise to provide strength for each day and bright hope for the future (see Jeremiah 29:11). Unnecessary roughness could come from the moving van that failed to show up, the new teacher that seems to have no empathy for the unique needs of your child, or the loneliness you feel. People will disappoint, mistakes will happen, and expectations will be violated, but don’t lose heart. Jesus never disappoints, Jesus never makes a mistake, Jesus will help you with your expectations, and he’ll give you the ability to be patient and trust Him with the outcome.

9. Celebrate in the end zone

No penalty for celebrating in this end zone. Throw a little party for yourself and your family (even if the dog is the only family that moved with you!) after the move is complete. Any move is a tremendous feat and should be acknowledged and congratulated. Bring in pizza, put on some party hats, and have a victory party in your new home: the end zone.

- Ann Kelley

Sept. Devotional

Putting down roots…

Moving is an uprooting and unsettling time in your life. You long to feel rooted and grounded, and yet you’ve just begun to break new ground in a new place. You are probably even experiencing the normal shock of adjustment from being transplanted. It’s never easy to start all over again, but with God’s help, you can do it. God wants you to “grow” in your relationship with Him, and with that growth, begin to bloom, as you put down deep roots in the soil of His love. You will need the garden tools of God’s word from the Bible, involvement in a bible study group, Christian friends, and a church home to cultivate a rich foundation. Then, plant seeds of trust and faith in your “master gardener” and begin to bloom!

Scripture to remember: May your roots go down deep into the soil of God’s marvelous love. Ephesians 3:17 TLB

Question to consider: Am I watering my woes, or fertilizing my faith?

Prayer: Oh Lord, I want to grow deep roots in my relationship with you as I break ground in this new place. Equip me with the garden tools I need to start over and become deeply rooted and grounded in you. Amen

Thought for the day: Today, I will plant seeds of trust and faith in my “master gardener” and begin to bloom!

-Susan Miller

Connect with Susan Miller!

Wouldn't it be great to have regular encouragement from Susan Miller as close as your phone or computer? Now you can! Follow her on Twitter and on her new Facebook page.

Twitter and Facebook

Heart Notes- Sept. 2010

Dear Moving Friends,

With summer behind you, and fall just around the corner, life is once again regaining a rhythm of routine and schedules that seemed lost in the casual days of summer. Vacations are over, time off from work has come and gone, and children are back in school. Some of you may have a daughter, or son, going away to college, or moving away from home for the first time. Perhaps you might have experienced great sorrow over the summer from circumstances beyond your control. Or you might still be in the midst of settling in after a move, and haven’t even come up for air yet. You might be thinking, “I didn’t even have a summer break, and I’m spiritually, emotionally, and physically drained from the stress, pain, and chaos in my life.” This brings me to my question, ”How are you doing?” I want to go beyond your smile. I know so well how a smile can cover a multitude of feelings. I want to go straight to your heart. You might need to stop right now--pour yourself a cup of coffee, or make a cup of tea—as you ponder your answer. Now, take a deep breath, and listen up my friends. Here are some ways that I have learned to restore a broken heart, calm raw emotions, and strengthen a spiritual relationship with God.

It’s okay to cry. With change, comes loss. With loss, comes grieving. With grieving, come tears. Give yourself permission to grieve the change and loss in your life.

Remember you are not alone. It’s easy to slip into a pattern of thinking you’re carrying stress, pain, and even chaos, all by yourself. Remind yourself through God’s word that He will never leave you, fail you, or forget you. (Deuteronomy 31:8)

Recall God’s faithfulness in your life. Oh, how easily we forget! Sometimes I can become so consumed in seeing only what’s happening right now, and how it’s not going according to the “plan of Susan” that I forget God’s faithful track record with me in the past. He has always met all my needs, although not necessarily all my wants (Philippians 4:19). It is all according to His plan, not mine!

Stay grounded in what’s important. A lot of things might be going on in your life right now, and to-do lists are getting longer. Sometimes you just need to pull back to center and get your feet back on the ground before you can move forward. Are you listening to the voice of the world, or the voice of God? God’s to-do list is short, just “Come, follow me” (Matthew 19:21). He also says, “Abide in Me” (John 15:4). Then everything else will fall in place.

Stop and smell the flowers. In other words, take time to be good to yourself. Schedule some self-care by taking a break to rest your body, renew your mind, and restore your spirit.

Count your blessings. Regardless of your circumstances, put aside all the “what ifs” and the “if onlys” and start counting your blessings! “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24)

It was one year ago on August 9^th, that my beloved husband, Bill, moved to his eternal home and is now residing in heaven with Jesus--free from the pain of cancer. With summer behind me, I begin another busy fall schedule of teaching, speaking and overseeing Just Moved Ministry. Through ministering to you, I am able to redeem the pain and grief of my own loss. Together, we CAN move forward.

From My Heart to Yours,

Devotional- Aug 2010

I think I can, I think I can...

When you are starting over there are two giant steps to take: persevere andpress on. You cannot always take these steps in your own strength, but God can equip you and enable you to do both. His word is your strength and hope.

At times you might feel like the “little engine that could” who said, “I think I can, I think I can…” as he pushed up the hill and discovered that, through perseverance, he really could make it.

For hope and perseverance that will push you up the hill, listen to what Paul says in 2 Corinthians 4:7-9: “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing greatness of the power may be of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed..”

Scripture to Remember: “…through perseverance and the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope.” Romans 15:4

Question to Consider: In what situation do I need to persevere and press on?

Prayer: Oh Lord, give me a persevering spirit! Reveal through your word the encouragement and hope I need to start over.

Thought for the Day: Today, I will press on through the obstacles I am facing!

-Susan Miller

Heart Talk from Susan Miller- Aug 2010

Dear Moving Friends,

Have you ever had exciting news you just couldn’t wait to share?

If you promise to act surprised when it comes, I’ll tell you now, because I know you’ll want to start checking your mailbox in September for the arrival of----your first Just Moved newsletter!! Our staff is busy preparing for the birth of Bloom (named by one of our volunteers) and I want to pique your interest in anticipation of its arrival.

Bloom will bring hope to you, the uprooted woman. Our newsletter is another way for us to prepare, encourage, and equip you to embrace your new life when you are uprooted because of a move. Whether you’re still adjusting to a move, or feel like the adjustment is behind you, Bloom will help you face the many transitions in life. Just Moved is there for you when you need us—through the personal touch of phone and prayer, our website, and now, our newsletter.

You’ll love the practical tips and helpful information to encourage you with the challenges of moving—from children and pets to winning over worry! The personal testimonies about how God works in and through a move will inspire you. You’ll be the first to know where I’ll be speaking and where new Moving On After Moving In classes are forming. We’ll keep you informed about Just Moved events and conferences and any items in our gift shop for you or a moving friend to help make it a smooth transition. Of course, it will always open with my written hug to embrace you across the miles.

If you know someone who might want our newsletter, send us the mailing address and we’ll be sure to send out a copy. In the meantime, get ready toBloom in September!

From My Heart to Yours,

Class Spotlight- Aug 2010

Franklin Christian Church
4040 Murfreesboro Rd
Franklin, TN 37067
www.fcctn.org

Leaders: Miranda Kokes and Laura O'Neal

We held our first Moving On Class last October 2009. As I compiled my class roster, I was in complete amazement that we had 27 women signed up for the class!! I knew that it was a "God" thing!

The class helped the women with more things in their lives than just moving....it gave them encouragement for any type of transition. Most importantly, it brought them closer to God! One of our class participants will be co-facilitating the class with me this fall!

This class blessed me personally in ways that I can hardly put into words. It strengthened my faith and proved that God gives you what you need when He calls you to do something in His name. I realized there were some "boxes" that I had not yet unpacked....and they were emotional boxes. This class helped me to grow closer to God, it improved my family life, and it provided me with some dear friends that I may have never met otherwise.

Sometimes He has to "move" us physically in order to "move" us closer to Him!

Miranda

Moving Story- Aug 2010

God has taught me and is teaching me so much through my moves...

Heather in Texas

A friend of mine recommended you to me a few years ago. Last year I found out about your teaching on DVD (download). Your DVD’s have been a powerful help in understanding the stages and process of moving. Thank you so much for your ministry. I’m moving on now, in large part due to the wisdom and experience God gave you in your many moves!

God has taught me and is teaching me so much through my moves. I don’t take friends or small groups or even volunteering for granted as I did when I lived in my hometown. Most importantly, I’m certain that there is no way I would have grown in my relationship with the Lord if I’d never moved. I’ve matured as a result. Moving and losing my external support structures caused me to desperately seek the Lord and learn to know Him as friend. Out of sheer loneliness, I developed a habit of daily quiet time with Him. I have actually done those 10-week bible studies on my own at home without a small group just because I was so lonely and desperate to meet with Him and get His love! Moving has caused me to see how little I really depended on God’s comfort and sufficiency. In so many ways, I can see that my hometown represented “Egypt” for me. I was in bondage in ways that I didn’t realize until God called us away. Each move brings us closer to our “promised land” and I find more healing and freedom in each place, as I trust Him.

Even though I don’t know you, I love you and think of you as a friend! I will absolutely remember your ministry and recommend you to others who need help moving on.

Moving Tips- Aug 2010

Now what?
When you're new and you've got too much time on your hands...

You’ve settled in to your new home. The kids are back in school. You’re husband is off to his new job. Suddenly, you find yourself with hours to fill in a town where no one knows you and you’re afraid you’ll get lost just going to the grocery store. You may be tempted to stay within the security of your four walls, but you know that will only add to your loneliness.

Use these 15 ideas to launch you into a plan to make the most of each day.

Start by taking care of yourself:

Read and meditate on the Beatitudes found in Matthew chapter 5, verses 3-11. I highly recommend that you read these in The Message Bible paraphrase by Eugene Peterson. Jesus is teaching about contentment here and he has a lot to say to you. Don’t have this paraphrase? One of the first steps in your plan to get out and explore your new surroundings can be to find a bookstore and buy one! You can also read this in a past Tips for Moving On by clicking here.

Get your blood pumping. Working out affects your whole mood and outlook for the day. Anything from a brisk walk to a spin class will give you energy to face the future.

Keep a water bottle within arms reach at all times. Water is cleansing and refreshing and contributes to maintaining a proper weight. Your body will thank you.

Be quiet. Turn off the TV, your music, the computer… anything electronic… and ask God to speak to you. I’m not talking about an audible voice here, but He wants to instruct, encourage, and guide you and he’ll do that through your thoughts and feelings. But He can’t always get through to you if you’re never quiet. He’ll use scripture too (see action #1).

Examine yourself. Now that you’ve spent time listening, consider how you might like to take advantage of being the newcomer by making some changes in yourself that you’ve always wanted to make. This is your opportunity to redefine yourself. No one in your new community has any expectations of you. Have you always wanted to be more bold? Make the decision to invite a neighbor over for coffee.

Journal about this time in your life. Writing can bring clarity, release, and a reminder of any conclusions you reach. Years from now you’ll enjoy reading what you wrote and being reminded of this period in your life.

Bring flowers inside. Keep flowers on the table, counter, or in your bedroom. You’ll be surprised how much they can lift your spirits.

Now let’s turn your focus outward:

Be neighborly. We don't know if they are shy or just too busy, but neighbors aren't always the first to say hello. Bake some cookies and knock on your neighbor's door to say hello.

Volunteer. Opportunities abound for volunteering. From the local school to the hospital to the homeless shelter -- no offering is too small and your time and skills can make a real difference. While you’re helping, you’re also meeting people!

Be an explorer. Every day decide on one new place you’ll investigate… even if it’s just the DMV. It could be an area like a lovely park or neighborhood you’ve heard about. It could be a business or attraction that interests you or is historically significant.

Be a joiner. Join a fitness class, the library book club, a political campaign, a MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group, a neighborhood watch… you get the idea. A “joiner” more quickly becomes a “belonger”.

Find a Bible study to attend. By all means find a church to attend regularly, but beyond that become a part of a smaller group that is doing a Bible study. Your best bet as a newcomer is to find or start aMoving On After Moving In study. Contact us here at Just Moved Ministry to learn more about this great way to make friends, connect with the community, and discover God’s perspective on your move. (email newministries@justmoved.org or call 480.991.5268)

Go back to school. You don’t have to be pursuing a degree to sign up for a class at the local community college or university. There are plenty of choices for those who are interested in personal and professional development. Take a guitar class, hone your writing skills, take a computer class… just sign up for something that interests you.

Choose one room at a time in your home to give your attention to. What can you do to make the room more inviting, more comfortable, and to more clearly reflect your style? Carry measurements and color swatches with you so that you are prepared to make a decision should you come across something that you’d like to buy for the room.

Remember that the rest of the family is also having to make lots of adjustments to this move. When family members get home, stop what you’re doing and give them a warm, loving, and interested reception. Ask about their day. Be a good listener. Act as if each of them is the most important person in your life.

-Ann Kelley

The Moving On After Moving In Class Reunion

If you attended a Moving On After Moving In class in Arizona,
join us for a
Reunion Luncheon
September 24, 2010 at Scottsdale Bible Chapel, 7901 E. Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ
10am-2:30pm

Click here to Register

Moving Tips- July 2010

15 stress busters when you're settling in to a new place

We are all like washing machines - when our load gets out of balance we threaten to shut down and may even make loud, annoying noises. When the washing machine is letting you know it’s out of balance, do you ignore it? No, you open the lid and redistribute the weight or remove some items. So it is with our lives.

When the stress of settling in after your move is causing an imbalance that could lead to an emotional or physical shut down, follow these steps to help redistribute or lighten the “load”.

Start with one room
Concentrate on getting one room settled so you have a place to rest when it seems everything else is in disarray.

Take a break from those boxes
Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day and your house won’t be settled in a day either.

Don’t get too upset over broken things
Something always breaks or gets damaged. Remember, they are just things.

Trust God
...even when it seems everything is going wrong.

Get enough sleep
A sleep researcher reported that the number of people who can get by on fewer than 8 hours of sleep each night can be rounded to... 0. Everyone needs 8 hours of sleep and if you can’t get that, grab a short nap.

Join a fitness class
This is a great stress reliever and an opportunity to meet others.

Pray
Pray about everything.

Have one goal per day
Don’t try to get new license plates, a library card, and a driver’s license all at once.

Reward yourself
What brings a smile to your face when you've accomplished a dreaded task? Reward yourself with a special treat like new nail polish, a favorite magazine, a bubble bath, or a fruit smoothie!

Browse
Visit a local bookstore or your favorite shop and browse the aisles.

Make time for you a priority
Read that book you’ve always wanted to read. Unload your thoughts in to a personal journal. This is time set aside just for you, even if it's just half an hour each day.

Feel inspired
Listen to music that energizes or inspires you.

Gain perspective
Moses was charged with moving 2-3 million people from Egypt to the Promised Land. Kind of puts things in perspective, doesn’t it?

Eat out
Watching your budget? Do carry-out or bring home a “you bake” pizza. Use one of those coupons that came in the mail. You may discover your favorite restaurant.

What would Scarlet do?
When all else fails, put on your sweetest smile and in your best southern belle accent say, “I’ll think about that tomorrow!”

Adapted from After the Boxes Are Unpacked: Moving On After Moving In by Susan Miller.

July Devotional- 2010

I am often asked by this younger generation, "what’s it all about--this freedom in Christ thing you talk about?" It’s easy for me to share my joy about the freedom that comes with knowing and living Jesus Christ! You see, Jesus is in the business of changing lives.

The more you become like Jesus, the more He releases your God-given potential and you experience a freedom that can only be found in Him. Jesus "moves" us from a "state" of bondage to a "state" of freedom! He "moves" us from a "state" of sorrow to a "state" of joy. Jesus can give you freedom, so trust Him and follow Him. His truth can give you freedom, so study His word, believe it, and obey it. Following the light on His path leads you out of darkness and takes you from despair to hope.

Oswald Chambers says it best. "Freedom is life controlled by God’s truth and motivated by His love. Bondage is life controlled by lies we believe and motivated by our selfishness. Freedom is the result of a living relationship with Jesus Christ--walking with Him, talking with Him, and learning from Him."

Let the freedom of Christ ring with every beat of your heart!

Scripture to Remember
Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
- 2 Corinthians 3:17

Question To Consider
Am I living in the freedom of Christ or in the bondage of the world?

Prayer
Lord, change my heart today. Help me to follow your light on the path of life. Release me from the bondage of lies and selfishness that I might clearly see and understand the freedom of Your truth and love. Amen

Thought for the Day
Today I will choose to stand firm in the truth of His word!

-Susan Miller

Heart Talk from Susan Miller- July 2010

Dear Moving Friends

The beach is one of my favorite places to go during the summer. Of all the beaches I have known, none holds my heart like the beaches of Destin, Florida. I grew up along the NW Coast of Florida, known as the Florida panhandle, where my dad served for many years, and later retired, at Eglin Air Force Base.

The beautiful Gulf of Mexico, with its emerald green water, and sugar white beaches, are an intricate part of my childhood memories. I have walked those beaches, picked up sea shells, climbed the sand dunes, played in the water, courted Bill there during our dating years, and took our children there for their first taste of sand and salt water. Any opportunity I have of going back to wiggle my toes in the sand, find a spot to nestle in, spread my beach towel, and gaze out at the Gulf, is as refreshing to my heart and soul as the cool water is to my body when I first go in the ocean. So you can imagine my excitement when plans began to form many months ago for a “girls’ weekend” in Destin with my daughter, daughter-in-law, and three granddaughters.

And then came the oil spill in the Gulf, affecting and changing the lives of those who work and live all along the coast—as well as the emerald green water, and the sugar white beaches we all love. When my eight-year-old granddaughter heard about the oil reaching the shores of our beaches, her spirit was not dampened at all about going there. Her response echoed the thoughts of our family, “Well Nana, if we can’t go swimming, we’ll just find a place somewhere to build sand castles on the beach!” And, that is what we will do—we won’t give up, or give in to the oil spill. We are still going to Destin. We will build sand castles on the beach--somehow, someway. We will find new things to do together as a family, and make memories. Perhaps it will be to pitch in and help--somehow, someway--to make our beaches beautiful again.

My granddaughter’s response is a lesson for us to remember. I couldn’t help but think of how many times our plans, hopes, and dreams are changed or altered through circumstances beyond our control. Never lose heart, my friends. Don’t give up, or give in, to the disappointment and discouragement that can so easily consume us when life doesn’t happen as we’ve planned. Wherever you are, whatever the circumstances may be--go out and build your own sand castles in the sand—somehow, someway. “Behold, I will do something new. Now it will spring forth; will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:19) (….and even sandcastles in the sand!)

From My Heart to Yours,

Susan Miller

South Mountain Community Church, Draper, UT

Maureen Maldonado, - Class Leader

From Co-Leader, Michelle Calmy...

I was born and raised in Las Vegas, and hadn't budged until October 10, 2009. That is when we moved to Draper, UT.

As the class was letting go, I was letting go. As the class was starting over, so was I. And as I helped the class move forward, I was in the process of moving forward myself. This class forced me to reach out beyond my comfort zone, and take the first step, make the first phone call, offer love and support to a wonderful group of women that, 11 weeks ago, I hardly knew. Moving to a new city for the very first time in my life, I would have never taken those steps. I would have just driven in my garage and shut the garage door while shutting out the rest of the neighborhood, the new friends that I would not have made, and essentially the rest of my new Utah world. I would still be clinging to everything that I left in Las Vegas, instead of cherishing it.

I honestly had no idea how much this class could change the lives of women who feel pain from their losses - sometimes even feeling hopeless - that it may never get better. I believe that there is now hope. I believe that we are now moving forward, with the help of Just Moved Ministry.

Moving Story- June 2010

This month we’re sharing the Moving Story of a Moving On After Moving Inclass leader in Utah. Michelle played a unique role in the class: not only was she helping to lead the class, she was a new mover herself...

Michelle in Utah

As the class was letting go, I was letting go...

When I first was asked to help lead the [Moving On After Moving In] class, I was a little nervous. I have a teaching degree in elementary education, and have worked for In-N-Out Burger (mostly as a trainer) for almost 17 years, so I knew that teaching a class would not be the main challenge for me. But what I did think was, "What do I have to offer anyone about moving?" I said this to myself because I had never moved before.

I was born and raised in Nevada, and hadn't budged until October 10, 2009. That is when we moved to Utah. But, as I was beginning to assist in the class and starting to take on some of the responsibility myself, I learned that maybe I could help some of these women get through some of their struggles. I was able to do that because I was going through the struggles myself. I had lost some of my own identity in the move. So, how am I working to get through that? I was able to share those things and get some great advice from some of the ladies who had already struggled through it. I realized, just as Susan Miller says in one of the videos, that I was in the trenches with the ladies. I was able to help, as well as be helped.

As the class was letting go, I was letting go. As the class was starting over, so was I. And as I helped the class move forward, I was in the process of moving forward myself. This class forced me to reach out beyond my comfort zone, and take the first step, make the first phone call, offer love and support to a wonderful group of women that,11 weeks ago, I hardly knew. Moving to a new city for the very first time in my life, I would have never taken those steps. I would have just driven in my garage and shut the garage door while shutting out the rest of the neighborhood, the new friends that I would not have made, and essentially the rest of my new Utah world. I would still be clinging to everything that I left in Las Vegas, instead of cherishing it.

I honestly had no idea how much this class could change the lives of women who feel pain from their losses, sometimes even feeling hopeless, that it may never get better. I believe that there is now hope. I believe that we are now moving forward, with the help of Just Moved Ministry. I thank Susan Miller for going through these moving experiences first, and sharing her story and her life with us, as well as her deep faith in Jesus. I want to acknowledge In-N-Out Burger for allowing us the resources to be able to have this class, and for caring about the people who work for the company so much. I truly know what an extraordinary company that I work for. I also thank the class leader for inviting me to join her on this journey. I have made a lifelong friend in her. And to the ladies that I spent my Tuesday evenings and Wednesday mornings with, I am so grateful for the special time that we have been able to share with each other. I am truly blessed to have been a part of this class.