Hey friends, been quiet lately. We went about 3 weeks without hearing from Tanya which had us all alittle concerned. I finally got another letter yesterday which was very encouraging.
As you know, Tanya has been in "the hole" since she was arrested almost three years ago. Didnot see the light of day with the exception of 30 minutes a day spent outside in a cage, a literal cage. She told me in her letter yesterday that she has finally been put into general population which she was thrilled about. Having alittle freedom means alot to her.
We have been praying since Sept. 09 that the Rainwaters and my family be approved to go to St. Gabriel to visit Tanya, we went month after month not hearing a word as to whether or not we were approved. After many phone calls from a number of people, we found out that they lost our applications and that we need to reapply. So, the applications are in the mail back to the prison so hopefully this time will be fruitful. What that a blessing that will be for us but most importantly for her.
Another answered pray.....The Chaplain at St. Gabriel is a strong Christian man that according to Tanya looks like St. Nic. After my email and some phone calls from Rev. Johnny Miller (Mark's pastor in Monroe) he has been to visit Tanya numerous times and has been such a blessing to her. He even invited her to a "retreat" held there at the prison. This retreat is by invitation only and they go to another section of the prison, they bring in home cooked food and have Bible Studies. I was so happy to hear that Tanya was going to go. Remember, she has not made that committment to Christ, please pray that she will during this retreat in Feb.
I am so amazed by God. Not only because of what He is doing in my life but in Tanya's. Isn't it amazing that God loves us not because He has to, but because He wants to. Thank you God for loving me.