Praise the Lord! I made it through today, now I have some Holiday, Yay!!!!! Today, was such a great day. Class wise, ok, but everything else was great! Tonight I am thankful for:
Holiday Time
Friendships that are growing with the grace of God
Time to write encouragement cards
Getting a flat tire at church where there were people to teach me how to change it, rather than getting a flat tire in the dark on the side of the road somewhere.
Having a dead battery in my car while at home, so that I could jump it with Ferne, again, it could have happened anywhere, but the Lord was watching over me.
Going out for dinner with Ferne on Thursday night
A new book to read over the holiday
E-mails from friends and family at home that encourage me and remind me of all the people praying for me. Praise the Lord!
Youth Group at Shore Grace tonight
Knowing that I am going to sleep past 7am in the morning!
Life with Jesus every day!
The beauty, love, joy, and peace that comes from knowing Christ died for my sake, so that I may live with Him in glory someday.
Studying God's Word.
God's perfect timing for all circumstances in my life.
I could go on and on tonight, but I think I'll stop there for now and go do some reading, then I'm going to bed for an incredible sleep. Thank you all for your prayers!
Friday, June 29, 2007
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Made it through Wednesday!
I made it through today! Praise the Lord. We had a large rehearsal at school today with like six other schools. This morning I was distracted and I didn't know how I was going to get through my morning classes until God took care of that for me. My outside school didn't come today! That totally made my day. I had the morning to prepare myself (mentally) for the afternoon, and also do some picking up and organizing my classroom. Ahh, I can't tell you how much of a blessing that was. The rehearsal went ok, but I was not pleased with the performance of most of my students. Some of them did a very nice job and I told them so, but many slacked off and were too comfortable in our school. I like having these big rehearsals at other schools so that my kids don't know anybody nor do they know the building. It keeps them on their toes and more dependent on me to give them directions. Well, I have two days left until holiday. I can do it! (with Jesus' help:)
Sunday, June 24, 2007
So far today...
I sang with the Pmwambwa Singers at Titirangi Baptist Church. It went really well and I enjoy singing with this group so much. It is such a blessing to sing such wonderful music and glorify the Lord with this gift of music. Being part of this choir was a huge answer to prayer for me as I came to New Zealand. I prayed that God would let me use my love for singing for ministry and to glorify Him. This choir has helped that happen. Praise the Lord! Though this choir is a wonderful way to use the gift of singing for the Lord, it means that I miss some services at Redoubt North. I love worshiping with the Redoubt family as well. However, I think that its ok for me to sacrifice that in order to participate in the ministry of this choir. I'm pretty sure the rest of our performances wont conflict with Redoubt services, so that is great.
After the service, I went to the Titirangi village market. It was so neat, it's kinda like art in the park, but smaller and more variety. I went with another member of the choir and Sri Lankan friend, Heranti. We had so much fun checking out each tent of unique art and jewelry. We also had a light lunch at a little cafe..mmm it was nice. While we were enjoying lunch, a choir came out to sing and I was really excited to hear them. The first song they sang was a song that I was familiar with and have sung in the past. The second song was introduced as an arrangement of the 23 Psalm and I thought, "O good, this should be nice." But then they started to sing and they used she as the pronoun to discribe God instead of He!!! At first I thought, no, I just heard them wrong, but then it continued!! I wanted to take out my Bible right there and read the proper 23rd Psalm so people could hear the true Word! I looked at Heranti and we thought it was a good time to leave, so we did. After we left, Heranti told me that many of those people were Spiritualist, Yikes! It was a huge eye-opener for me to see just how far Satan goes to decieve people and lead them away from the truth.
Tonight I'm going to go to Cession Community Church again and this afternoon I am going to rest. Praise the Lord for this wonderful day of rest and worship.
After the service, I went to the Titirangi village market. It was so neat, it's kinda like art in the park, but smaller and more variety. I went with another member of the choir and Sri Lankan friend, Heranti. We had so much fun checking out each tent of unique art and jewelry. We also had a light lunch at a little cafe..mmm it was nice. While we were enjoying lunch, a choir came out to sing and I was really excited to hear them. The first song they sang was a song that I was familiar with and have sung in the past. The second song was introduced as an arrangement of the 23 Psalm and I thought, "O good, this should be nice." But then they started to sing and they used she as the pronoun to discribe God instead of He!!! At first I thought, no, I just heard them wrong, but then it continued!! I wanted to take out my Bible right there and read the proper 23rd Psalm so people could hear the true Word! I looked at Heranti and we thought it was a good time to leave, so we did. After we left, Heranti told me that many of those people were Spiritualist, Yikes! It was a huge eye-opener for me to see just how far Satan goes to decieve people and lead them away from the truth.
Tonight I'm going to go to Cession Community Church again and this afternoon I am going to rest. Praise the Lord for this wonderful day of rest and worship.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Thoughts in a day
I was up bright and early this morning opening my windows to blue skies and sunshine, it was so lovely that I left my coat hanging on the door, not a great idea. During my first class of the day the rain started pouring so hard, it was crazy! Then it started to hail, I was thinking good grief, I have lunch and after school duty, this is not cool! Then the sun came out again, then more rain, then more sun! It was a ridiculous day weather-wise.
Well, I wouldn't say that I'm homesick but I would say that I miss my deep relationships on the home front. Tonight I talked to one of my really good friends back in the states for at least an hour. It felt so good to talk to someone who knows me so well. I have some great friends here in NZ and the Lord has truly blessed my relationships here in wonderful ways but building deep relationships takes time. I value relationship and quality time with others so that part of life here is going to take some time. That's OK.
This afternoon I was catching up on a couple e-mails that I wanted to get sent out and I was challenged in sharing a few bold prayer requests with specific individuals. After I sent out these e-mails, I had to go outside for after school duty (making sure the kids get on their way home) and there was an absolutely beautiful double rainbow across the sky. It was the boldest rainbow I have ever seen. I felt so blessed. Praise the Lord!
Most urgent prayer needs:
New flatmate for a month who doesn't know Jesus!
Last week of school before two weeks of holiday.
So many students who don't know the real Jesus, they are deceived by Mormonism.
How to use the time God has given me.
Where is God working around me, so that I can join Him in what He is doing?
Every part of my life being lived out to glorify God and grow His kingdom.
Me seeking God with all of my heart everyday.
Thank you for your prayers!
Well, I wouldn't say that I'm homesick but I would say that I miss my deep relationships on the home front. Tonight I talked to one of my really good friends back in the states for at least an hour. It felt so good to talk to someone who knows me so well. I have some great friends here in NZ and the Lord has truly blessed my relationships here in wonderful ways but building deep relationships takes time. I value relationship and quality time with others so that part of life here is going to take some time. That's OK.
This afternoon I was catching up on a couple e-mails that I wanted to get sent out and I was challenged in sharing a few bold prayer requests with specific individuals. After I sent out these e-mails, I had to go outside for after school duty (making sure the kids get on their way home) and there was an absolutely beautiful double rainbow across the sky. It was the boldest rainbow I have ever seen. I felt so blessed. Praise the Lord!
Most urgent prayer needs:
New flatmate for a month who doesn't know Jesus!
Last week of school before two weeks of holiday.
So many students who don't know the real Jesus, they are deceived by Mormonism.
How to use the time God has given me.
Where is God working around me, so that I can join Him in what He is doing?
Every part of my life being lived out to glorify God and grow His kingdom.
Me seeking God with all of my heart everyday.
Thank you for your prayers!
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
what can I say in six minutes...
well..this morning the sunrise was super! the whole sky was full of many shades of pink and red..."pink in the morning, sailors take warning" now it's raining.
I feel like a safe driver, I don't worry about what side of the road I'm on or what way to turn. I'm learning my way around the city much better too, not perfect but improving.
It's wednesday and I have two days left this week, then one more week, then I have holiday for two weeks!! yay!. I need a holiday! I've been teaching since last August when school started and we don't have summer break over here. We have Four terms a year with different amounts of holiday time between each one. Needless to say, I ready for two weeks!
Umm...let's see what else oh yeah, I bought a small heater for my room the other day and now I can heat it up in no time, so I'm not freezing my bum off all the time.
Well that's six minutes so I've gotta go, have a great day!
I feel like a safe driver, I don't worry about what side of the road I'm on or what way to turn. I'm learning my way around the city much better too, not perfect but improving.
It's wednesday and I have two days left this week, then one more week, then I have holiday for two weeks!! yay!. I need a holiday! I've been teaching since last August when school started and we don't have summer break over here. We have Four terms a year with different amounts of holiday time between each one. Needless to say, I ready for two weeks!
Umm...let's see what else oh yeah, I bought a small heater for my room the other day and now I can heat it up in no time, so I'm not freezing my bum off all the time.
Well that's six minutes so I've gotta go, have a great day!
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Hola amigos i familia
Hello friends and family,
I went to a great ladies night out last night with a totally fun Mexican theme. We enjoyed some Mexican food and music then Julia shared about here experience serving in a Mexican orfanage. This fun night was put together by Michelle Yates from Shore Grace Chruch. We had about 12 to 13 ladies come to this party and it was just a nice time of getting to know other ladies from the church and a few friends that came along too.
My favorite thing about this night is that I was able to bring a non-believer with me! Ferne and I have just had a student come to stay with us for about a month. She is from South Korea and is here studying English. She is 20yrs old and both her parents are Christians but she is not. While we were at the Yates' house their daughter Anna was showing me and Myeung chin some of her birthday gifts. One of them was a devotional journal that had a Bible verse at the top of the page and then some questionas about that verse. As Anna and I were reading the verses and talking about them, Myeung chin was also reading them (whispering out loud) It took everything in me not to start jumping up and down because God was beginning a work in Myeung Chin. God's Word tells us in Isaiah that His Word will not return back to Him void, but will accomplish the purpose for which it was sent.
I know that God had placed this young woman with Ferne and I for a purpose and I pray that we may be His instruments and that she will see God in us. I pray that before she leaves, she knows Jesus as her personal savior and can have a personal relationship with Him. Please Pray!!! with me that God continues to do amazing works to reveal Himself to this young woman. Please pray that I am observant and see what God is doing so that I can join Him and be used by Him to further His Kingdom.
I went to a great ladies night out last night with a totally fun Mexican theme. We enjoyed some Mexican food and music then Julia shared about here experience serving in a Mexican orfanage. This fun night was put together by Michelle Yates from Shore Grace Chruch. We had about 12 to 13 ladies come to this party and it was just a nice time of getting to know other ladies from the church and a few friends that came along too.
My favorite thing about this night is that I was able to bring a non-believer with me! Ferne and I have just had a student come to stay with us for about a month. She is from South Korea and is here studying English. She is 20yrs old and both her parents are Christians but she is not. While we were at the Yates' house their daughter Anna was showing me and Myeung chin some of her birthday gifts. One of them was a devotional journal that had a Bible verse at the top of the page and then some questionas about that verse. As Anna and I were reading the verses and talking about them, Myeung chin was also reading them (whispering out loud) It took everything in me not to start jumping up and down because God was beginning a work in Myeung Chin. God's Word tells us in Isaiah that His Word will not return back to Him void, but will accomplish the purpose for which it was sent.
I know that God had placed this young woman with Ferne and I for a purpose and I pray that we may be His instruments and that she will see God in us. I pray that before she leaves, she knows Jesus as her personal savior and can have a personal relationship with Him. Please Pray!!! with me that God continues to do amazing works to reveal Himself to this young woman. Please pray that I am observant and see what God is doing so that I can join Him and be used by Him to further His Kingdom.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Currently...
I have a new favorite music artist here in NZ, Brooke Fraser. Her music is part of the secular music culture, but she is definitely a Christian and her lyrics are definitely Christian. I was listening to one of her cds today during my quiet time before school. I was studying what it means to be a servant of God and remain in Him.
John 15:5 “I am the vine and you are the branches, those that remain in me and I in them, will bear much fruit, apart from me, you can do nothing. (NLT)
How do I remain in Jesus? Well, I decided it was like knowing Jesus is with me All the Time: when I sleep, when I get ready, when I teach, drive, hang with friends, go to church…you get the picture. I decided that for me to remain in Jesus I had to think about being with Him all the time.
How do I bear fruit? If Jesus is with me all time and I am remaining in Him and He is in me, then naturally He will work in and through me bearing much Spiritual fruit and continuing to grow His Kingdom through me. This gave me tons of encouragement because I realized that it’s not me, it’s all Jesus. I can do nothing apart from Him. I must dwell in Him, know Him, love Him, be molded by Him, be obedient to Him, and then I will begin to see the fruit that He is producing through me. As I was coming to these conclusions at the end of my time, the song HYMN began to play.
HYMN
If to distant lands I scatter,
if I sail to farthest seas,
Would you find and firm and gather ‘till I only dwell in Thee?
If I flee from greenest pastures, would you leave to look for me?
Forfeit glory to come after, ‘till I only dwell in Thee.
If my heart has one ambition, if my soul one goal to seek,
This is my solitary vision ‘till I only dwell in Thee.
That I only dwell in Thee.
That I only dwell in Thee.
Let’s just say, that was pretty sweet!
Before this time of study even began, I felt Jesus with me in the morning. He was preparing my heart for this lesson. It was like He was following me around all morning, through my morning routine, as I drove to school, and then as I opened my Bible and study to intentionally enter His presence. The thing is, I was already with Him and He was with me. I felt this all day. Even now actually, I’m sitting at Starbucks reflecting on my day and I feel like Jesus is sitting across the table. I like it. There is so much more that I learned this morning but I think this is intense enough for now. I hope that you are encouraged by reading this and knowing that God is at work in you as you remain in Him and He in you.
John 15:5 “I am the vine and you are the branches, those that remain in me and I in them, will bear much fruit, apart from me, you can do nothing. (NLT)
How do I remain in Jesus? Well, I decided it was like knowing Jesus is with me All the Time: when I sleep, when I get ready, when I teach, drive, hang with friends, go to church…you get the picture. I decided that for me to remain in Jesus I had to think about being with Him all the time.
How do I bear fruit? If Jesus is with me all time and I am remaining in Him and He is in me, then naturally He will work in and through me bearing much Spiritual fruit and continuing to grow His Kingdom through me. This gave me tons of encouragement because I realized that it’s not me, it’s all Jesus. I can do nothing apart from Him. I must dwell in Him, know Him, love Him, be molded by Him, be obedient to Him, and then I will begin to see the fruit that He is producing through me. As I was coming to these conclusions at the end of my time, the song HYMN began to play.
HYMN
If to distant lands I scatter,
if I sail to farthest seas,
Would you find and firm and gather ‘till I only dwell in Thee?
If I flee from greenest pastures, would you leave to look for me?
Forfeit glory to come after, ‘till I only dwell in Thee.
If my heart has one ambition, if my soul one goal to seek,
This is my solitary vision ‘till I only dwell in Thee.
That I only dwell in Thee.
That I only dwell in Thee.
Let’s just say, that was pretty sweet!
Before this time of study even began, I felt Jesus with me in the morning. He was preparing my heart for this lesson. It was like He was following me around all morning, through my morning routine, as I drove to school, and then as I opened my Bible and study to intentionally enter His presence. The thing is, I was already with Him and He was with me. I felt this all day. Even now actually, I’m sitting at Starbucks reflecting on my day and I feel like Jesus is sitting across the table. I like it. There is so much more that I learned this morning but I think this is intense enough for now. I hope that you are encouraged by reading this and knowing that God is at work in you as you remain in Him and He in you.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Sunday Sunday
Yesterday was a wonderful Sunday! In the morning, I was back at Redoubt North. I heard a great sermon from the book of Acts and was reminded of the power of the Holy Spirit. I love that book (well the whole BOOK really)! Terry talked about the mission of Paul and Silas and the way the Holy Spirit worked through them. He also reminded me that ministry is always a matter of education, prayer, partnership and guidence. Praise the Lord!
In the evening I went to Shore Grace. I enjoy worshiping at Shore Grace too. I loved the time of singing in the evening, even though I still have that yucky cold. The message was also great. Pastor Mike preached on God's will and being in the center of it. Praying to discern what God is doing in your life and so on...The church is beginning a study called "Experiencing God." Because I won't be able to go to many more services (service time change that conflicts with Redoubt) I will do the study with Julia. I started it last night and it is going to be so good. I'll deffinitely be posting on what I'm learning.
So all in all, praise the Lord for a good weekend and time rest. Praise the Lord for His Word and all that is revealed in it. Praise the Lord for pastors who are willing to teach and be obediant to the task of caring for God's people.
In the evening I went to Shore Grace. I enjoy worshiping at Shore Grace too. I loved the time of singing in the evening, even though I still have that yucky cold. The message was also great. Pastor Mike preached on God's will and being in the center of it. Praying to discern what God is doing in your life and so on...The church is beginning a study called "Experiencing God." Because I won't be able to go to many more services (service time change that conflicts with Redoubt) I will do the study with Julia. I started it last night and it is going to be so good. I'll deffinitely be posting on what I'm learning.
So all in all, praise the Lord for a good weekend and time rest. Praise the Lord for His Word and all that is revealed in it. Praise the Lord for pastors who are willing to teach and be obediant to the task of caring for God's people.
Saturday, June 09, 2007
Colds are Yuck!
So I've got my first cold since being in NZ. I don't like it much really. It's an absolutely beautiful day outside and all I feel like doing is sitting and every now and then emptying my nose. Colds are yuck! I thought that maybe if I got ready for the day and made myself feel nice, I would feel better. Umm...nope. I felt light headed from being up and walking around, good grief. I'm not one who likes to sit and stop for any long peroid of time, especially if it's sunny outside. Grrr..well that's how I feel right now. I'll get better, this cold won't last forever, and when I do I'll get up and go for a nice walk, hike, or something outdoors.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Where I Reside
Well I've been meaning to post pictures of the house I'm living in and the car I'm using to get wherever it is I want to go. So now is your lucky day! It's finally happening. I live in the suburb of Meadowbank in Auckland, NZ. NZ does not use zip codes so there are tons of suburbs to identify what area your street/house is in. The car I'm driving is a 19yr. old Merc. It belongs to a couple from church, but they often loan it out to people who need a car, I'm the lucky recepient of that blessing right now. Praise the Lord. I live with a wonderful Sri Lankan woman who is a strong Christian and a huge encouragement. I am so blessed to be taken so well care of. God is Amazing!
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
WMCNZ Convention
This past weekend was the Queen's Birthday weekend, so we had an extra day off on Monday. It was a great weekend. I went to and participated in the Wesleyan Methodist Church of New Zealand family convention. I participated by running a drama seminar for the youth on Saturday and then putting a drama together for the Saturday night rally. I had so much fun, God did everything really. In my last post you'll notice that God was encouraging me through Hebrews 12:1-2, so I decided to plan the drama to incorporate this verse. On Saturday afternoon, I was walking past the main marquee where the adults were listening to the guest speaker, He was using the same passage! How cool is that?! God is so awesome! The teens did a great job with the drama and I was really proud of them for being so flexible and putting the drama together in such little time.
I loved worshiping with the body of Christ from so many different cultures, it was a such a blessing. That is what I remember most about the last time I was here as well. It reminds me that Scripture says that people from every nation, tribe, and language will praise the name of the Lord.
Another highlight was connecting with friends. I was able to connect with some other young adults and begin some new friendships. A bunch of us went to Huka Falls and Sunday afternoon and saw some beaufiful sights. I was also able to reconnect with people from churches I visited two years ago.
I'm going to try to do a picture post after this one to show you some pics from the weekend. I don't know if I'll be able to write next to them to explain what or who is in them, but I'll do my best.
I loved worshiping with the body of Christ from so many different cultures, it was a such a blessing. That is what I remember most about the last time I was here as well. It reminds me that Scripture says that people from every nation, tribe, and language will praise the name of the Lord.
Another highlight was connecting with friends. I was able to connect with some other young adults and begin some new friendships. A bunch of us went to Huka Falls and Sunday afternoon and saw some beaufiful sights. I was also able to reconnect with people from churches I visited two years ago.
I'm going to try to do a picture post after this one to show you some pics from the weekend. I don't know if I'll be able to write next to them to explain what or who is in them, but I'll do my best.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Thankful Today
Yesterday was a rough day of teaching, but today was much better. At the end of the day yesterday I was left asking why I was a teacher. In the morning, I had a student cuss me out, try to start hitting me, then bolt from class!!! All because I told him he had to finish his power point (I was teaching technology class). Praise the Lord I had an aid in the room that I could send after this student and she found him and helped him get himself under control. Unfortunately, I would have handled the situation with this student much differently had I known how he would respond to me and why he responded the way he did. Just one example of why relieving teachers need to be told about any special needs of students in the class. oh well, I survived. In the afternoon, my class was all about mocking eachother and talking way too much, I could hardly get out instructions, oh and did I mention hitting. Good grief!
This morning when I got to school I told the Lord I needed some encouragement. I needed something to go right so that I could keep going. Then I remembered Hebrews 12:1-2
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge croud of witnesses to the life of Faith, let us strip of every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting Him, He endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now, He is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne." (NLT)
I am so thankful that God's Word is refreshing and new every day. Then I had a wonderful student in one of my morning classes today, it was just the right encouragement I needed to keep myself on top of my game. God is so good.
This morning when I got to school I told the Lord I needed some encouragement. I needed something to go right so that I could keep going. Then I remembered Hebrews 12:1-2
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge croud of witnesses to the life of Faith, let us strip of every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting Him, He endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now, He is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne." (NLT)
I am so thankful that God's Word is refreshing and new every day. Then I had a wonderful student in one of my morning classes today, it was just the right encouragement I needed to keep myself on top of my game. God is so good.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
shout out
Well this is pretty much just a shout out to Nigel from Redoubt North. Every time I go to Nigel and Julia's house or church or see them, he always has a commentary on my blog status and stories. This cracks me up. Honestly, I know my friends and family read this thing but I forget. So good on ya Nigel for keepin' me on my toes and reminding me to keep my blog goin'
Monday, May 28, 2007
Choosing Joy
Over the past few days, life has just been nice, busy but nice. Saturday, I slept in for the first time in a long time. I needed that rest. Sunday, I sang in a contata at Greyfriers Presbeterian Church. The choir I sing in is going to sing "Come Redeemer" many times over the next few months. I don't think I really understood how huge of a deal it was when I joined, but it is fun. On Sunday, we sang two services. We have presentations in June and July as well. "Come Redeemer" is a cantata that is all Scripture put to music. I absolutely love singing it and I'm memorizing Scripture at the same time. Sunday was a day of complete Joy. I was also able to spend time with my friend Serina and help her edit some papers. It was a good day.
Today there were many times I had to choose joy. Teaching intermediate school can be so hard. I just feel like I don't know how to communicate with my students sometimes. I want to enjoy teaching, I want my students to enjoy learning, but this whole school thing is a two way street. I need my students to work with me, listen, and follow directions. But anyway, at the end of the day, I am choosing joy. I would much rather be joyful than frustrated. I'm looking forward to the day when I learn how to effectively teach these students. For now I am praying for strength, energy, and joy!
Today there were many times I had to choose joy. Teaching intermediate school can be so hard. I just feel like I don't know how to communicate with my students sometimes. I want to enjoy teaching, I want my students to enjoy learning, but this whole school thing is a two way street. I need my students to work with me, listen, and follow directions. But anyway, at the end of the day, I am choosing joy. I would much rather be joyful than frustrated. I'm looking forward to the day when I learn how to effectively teach these students. For now I am praying for strength, energy, and joy!
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Washing clothes
Doing wash is so easy in the States! you just go to the machine, stick the clothes in, they come out wet, you stick them in the dryer, they come out warm and dry! Here, we don't really use dryers. Very few people have dryers. Everybody hangs their clothes to dry. Not a problem, except that it takes a few days for anything to dry because it's winter and it rains a little everyday, so the air is damp and sometimes chilly. Not exactly ideal for hanging clothes to dry. So today, I thought I'd go to the laudromat to do my washing because they have dryers! Well, I ended up not having time to dry my clothes all the way because I had choir rehearsal this afternoon and I got a later start than I planned. All in all, I still ended up hanging my clothes out when I got home grr...oh well, it could be worse! I could have to wash my clothes all by hand. I guess, if my clothes still arn't dry tomorrow I might take them back to the laudry and just dry them. We'll see.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Growing
Each of us go through times of growing and being challenged in many different seasons of life. Right now I feel like God is wanting be to grow in so many ways. I've been reading "Woman of Influence" by Pam Farrel and I know God is challenging me through this book. I can feel it inside, it's almost strange. I am not one who usually writes out goals because I generally know what I need to accomplish within myself. I also like to live life as it comes at me, one day, week, month, year at a time. Tonight, I am being challenged to write out some goals. So that's what I'm doing,working on goals, not just a few abstract goals but real ones. I am trying to develop goals for my Spiritual life, Relationships: friends, family ect., Energy: physical life, and Productivity: career, education, ministry. I think this is going to be an intense process. It's going to take more than one night, but at least I'll get a good start. I'm looking forward to this and I think that God is going to use this process to help me better understand myself and who He created me to be.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Choir 180
For the past three weeks, choir has been my hardest part of my week. I have choir practice with the kids twice a week, Mondays and Thursdays, I've been getting home utterly exhausted and frustrated by the end of the day. Yesterday, I decided I'd had enough! Before choir I prayed over every single chair in that room out loud. I prayed for every student who would enter the room and I prayed for strength, courage, love, kindness and the right dose of firm. Half way through the rehearsal, I was struggling. My nerves were getting worn down and I needed to get a grip. So I stopped, I asked the students to raise their hands and tell me why they felt the need to mock, swear, hit, kick and mess around in class all the time. I told them that there must be a reason because they did every time they came to choir, so I wanted to hear the reasons from them. Some of my answers: He keeps getting smart, he's touching me, she's mocking me miss, she looked at me. So I said,"Alright, stop getting smart with each other, keep your hands, feet and all parts of your body to yourself, don't mock each other, and look at me, that should solve most if not all of our problems." Now, let's continue. So we did, we went though another song, however there was still too much talking and singing off pitch on purpose. I made it through the song but I was frustrated with them for now disrespecting me. I decided to ask them about that too. So I said, "Now somebody raise your hand and tell me why you all feel the need to disrespect me by talking while I'm teaching, singing off pitch on purpose, and being rude? Again, there must be a purpose and a reason for this, so what is it? Their primary answer: "They're showing off miss" and the expected silence. So I said, "Well, I don't care if you show off on your own time, but don't waste mine." Then I continued: "By this point most of your teachers would be absolutely furious, I'm not angry, my heart is broken for you. I am hard on you because I want you to do well, I don't want you to fail and not learn this music. Then you will be frustrated with yourselves. I need you to work with me so that you succeed!"(By this point I was almost in tears, but I kept my composure). That was it, choir was over. I ended by telling them that our next rehearsal was going to be totally different. They were going to come to choir ready to sing, learn the music, respect each other, and have fun too.
Today was that next rehearsal! I had an entirely different group of students! We made it through four songs, learned new material, successfully learned parts! It was wonderful. God was with me, I know He was. I'm pretty sure someone was either praying for me at that time or prayed for me specifically about that time. I am so thankful this rehearsal! I finally feel like we're getting somewhere and we'll learn the music. I was so encouraged!!! I hope next week goes just as well if not even better, these kids have so much potential. They have great rhythm and really strong voices, they just need to use them correctly and work as a team. This choir I heard today is a 180 degree change from the last rehearsal. Praise the Lord!
Today was that next rehearsal! I had an entirely different group of students! We made it through four songs, learned new material, successfully learned parts! It was wonderful. God was with me, I know He was. I'm pretty sure someone was either praying for me at that time or prayed for me specifically about that time. I am so thankful this rehearsal! I finally feel like we're getting somewhere and we'll learn the music. I was so encouraged!!! I hope next week goes just as well if not even better, these kids have so much potential. They have great rhythm and really strong voices, they just need to use them correctly and work as a team. This choir I heard today is a 180 degree change from the last rehearsal. Praise the Lord!
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Birthday Celebrations
I felt so loved and blessed on my birthday even so far from home. I took off for Bethells beach with one of my friends on Sunday morning and had a wonderful time of journaling, exploring, running, singing. Just enjoying God and thanking him for the life he's given me. Then on Monday night Redoubt North held a carry-in dinner to celebrate with me. I felt so loved and blessed. Thanks to all of you who made me feel special on my birthday!
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Netball, painting, and Mt. Wellington
Mmmm....it was sunny today! It was absolutely wonderful. I started out this morning by going to a netball game. Netball is like basketball without dribbling and without a backboard. One of the young girls at Redoubt plays recreation netball. Her name is Bethany and ever since my first Sunday at Redoubt, this 10 yr. old has been my best friend. She is so sweet and really wanted me to come to her netball game, so I did.
This afternoon, I spent the day at Mt. Wellington. It is a big dormant volcano in the middle of the city. I actually use this mountain to help locate where I am and where I have to be in the city. I don't have lake MI but I have Mt. Wellington:) I hiked around, spent some time reading, singing, and just enjoying the day.
This afternoon I was feeling crafty, so I painted. I found some inexpensive concentrated watercolor paints and what not, then just painted for fun. I painted a sunset and tulips, mmm..it was definitely enjoyable. I like painting, I just don't usually have time for it. So it was a nice part of my day today. Tonight I'm going to a birthday party and a house warming party. So off I go.
This afternoon, I spent the day at Mt. Wellington. It is a big dormant volcano in the middle of the city. I actually use this mountain to help locate where I am and where I have to be in the city. I don't have lake MI but I have Mt. Wellington:) I hiked around, spent some time reading, singing, and just enjoying the day.
This afternoon I was feeling crafty, so I painted. I found some inexpensive concentrated watercolor paints and what not, then just painted for fun. I painted a sunset and tulips, mmm..it was definitely enjoyable. I like painting, I just don't usually have time for it. So it was a nice part of my day today. Tonight I'm going to a birthday party and a house warming party. So off I go.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Jesus shows up
It started yesterday afternoon. My Tues. afternoon class is so difficult. The students just don't want to listen. I waste more time telling them that I will not begin until they are quiet, and repeating instructions because someone wasn't listening or reprimanding students for swearing or you name it...I was/am SICK OF IT!!!!!!!!! For the past two Tuesdays, this class leaves at the end of the day and I'm shot, physically and emotionally. This morning I got to school with a horrible headache, not sure how I was going to face the morning. I sat and prayed for a while, just got honest with Jesus and asked Him to meet me where I was at. I needed His strength today in a mighty way. As you know, Jesus showed up. I turned on some peaceful music, journaled some thoughts and the Lord helped me refocus on what I was there to do. Love these children and teach them music through His love. My headache went away and I was able to enjoy my day. Granted I did keep three students this afternoon for the 2:55 Crew (detention) but I felt good about it. I had a discussion with them when it was finished and we'll see what happens next week. I hope I got through to them at least a little bit! Praise the Lord for helping me through this day and every day! I can only teach because of of Him.
Friday, May 11, 2007
Rock Climbing
Tonight I went rock climbing with Annie, Gram, Nathan, and Aarron. We had a great time. I found out this indoor climbing place is less than ten min. from my house..Way cool! We all had some pretty great climbs. Gram is a great climber, it was amazing to watch him. I am a beginner/intermediate climber, but tonight I definitely had some of my best climbs yet. I usually tire out before I make it to the top, but tonight I made it through at least four or five complete climbs! For me, that's a personal best. Next time I go I'm going to start with one of the harder climbs, tonight, I had already done two faces before I tackled the harder one, so my arms were already pretty sore, but I made it most of the way up. Ok, I think I've rambled enough for one night. I need to get off to bed here soon.
Mission Bay
Last night I went out to Mission Bay for a time of reflection and processing. I wanted to really think about the experiences I've been having and also just spend some quiet time with the Lord. I was so blessed. It was a peaceful night, not too chilly, and not too many people around. It was just serene. When I got there, I jumped over the stone guard wall just like a kid who couldn't wait to play in the sand. Then I just stood and looked around. Looked at the sea, looked at the coast, looked at the islands(volcanoes), look all around. I listened to the waves and the wind, and the slight sound of traffic not too far away and kids who jumped in the fountain. I was just still and it was good. Then I walked down the coast a bit to the playground and just decided to spend some time swinging and singing, it was wonderful. I feel like it's been so long since I had this kind of evening, so peaceful.
After I spent some time by the water, I went across the street to a coffee shop and had a latte while reading. This was nice too. I found a little cove in the corner of the shop that was kinda like a cave, it was perfect. Once I had finished reading I headed for home. When I got home I wanted to look through my Nooma DVDs for a specific one that I want to share with one of my friends on Sat. While I was looking for that one, I ran across another one that I hadn't watched in a while, so I put it in. I hadn't watched this one in so long that I forgot that it was filmed right on Lake MI. I love the water, especially watching the sunset at Lake MI, so when I saw this, it was like God let me have a little piece of home, just for a moment.
I enjoy a busy life, but I also appreciate the time to slow down and reflect. Last night was one of those times. Praise the Lord.
After I spent some time by the water, I went across the street to a coffee shop and had a latte while reading. This was nice too. I found a little cove in the corner of the shop that was kinda like a cave, it was perfect. Once I had finished reading I headed for home. When I got home I wanted to look through my Nooma DVDs for a specific one that I want to share with one of my friends on Sat. While I was looking for that one, I ran across another one that I hadn't watched in a while, so I put it in. I hadn't watched this one in so long that I forgot that it was filmed right on Lake MI. I love the water, especially watching the sunset at Lake MI, so when I saw this, it was like God let me have a little piece of home, just for a moment.
I enjoy a busy life, but I also appreciate the time to slow down and reflect. Last night was one of those times. Praise the Lord.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Weekend
This weekend I went to Thames with a family from church. It was Beautiful!! I had a lovely time. We were only gone for Saturday all day and came back Sunday morning in time for church, but it was relaxing and wonderful. I enjoyed the beauty of God's creation and time with friends. It was the perfect ending to a busy week and a great kick-off for the next.
Tonight I went to Shore Grace Church. I was able to see some other friends and worship in a wonderful family of believers. I met some more new people and was incredibly blessed in so many ways. God is so Good and His love is So GREAT!
Tonight I went to Shore Grace Church. I was able to see some other friends and worship in a wonderful family of believers. I met some more new people and was incredibly blessed in so many ways. God is so Good and His love is So GREAT!
Weekend
This weekend I went to Thames with a family from church. It was Beautiful!! I had a lovely time. We were only gone for Saturday all day and came back Sunday morning in time for church, but it was relaxing and wonderful. I enjoyed the beauty of God's creation and time with friends. It was the perfect ending to a busy week and a great kick-off for the next.
Tonight I went to Shore Grace Church. I was able to see some other friends and worship in a wonderful family of believers. I met some more new people and was incredibly blessed in so many ways. God is so Good and His love is So GREAT!
Tonight I went to Shore Grace Church. I was able to see some other friends and worship in a wonderful family of believers. I met some more new people and was incredibly blessed in so many ways. God is so Good and His love is So GREAT!
Friday, May 04, 2007
Two weeks down
Well, I just finished my second week at Tamaki. I think this is going to be a good fit for me. I am really tired though. This week has been total chaos. I've had something going on every night. In my last post, I mentioned that I have tons of stories, and I do, but there are so many things that happen in one day, that I can't remember what to write about. So I'll give you a rundown of the week:
Monday: School, Mtg, then I head off to Redoubt North Wes. for a meeting about C.I.A (Christ in Action) kids club. This was a planning meeting to discuss what our roles were to be on Thursday. God really confirmed that this is where He wants me to be because of the name C.I.A. At IWU I had an amazing experience traveling with a C.I.A drama team for a summer. Peter came up with this same name for the kids club! God is so cool!
Tuesday: School, Mtg, then I went to see a local high school play. It was a Shakespeare play and I can't for the life of me remember the name of it right now. But the kids did a nice job, they shortened it a bit, which I thought was a good touch. Then I went for coffee to catch up with my friend Sam, who is a youth leader at the Fijian Wes. church which I visited last time was here.
Wednesday: School, then off to a choral directors mtg for the APPA choral festival. This is much like the state honors choir festivals that happen in the states. I am taking our choir in November, I am now learning songs in Maori and Samoan for this festival! Also included in the repertoire is John Rutter's "For the Beauty of the Earth" which I absolutely love, so I'm excited. After this meeting, I headed off to my own choir rehearsal for the community choir that I joined with Ferne.
Thursday: School, No Mtg!!!, then off to C.I.A kids club at Redoubt North Wes. We had a great night. There were six kids from the community that came and a few kids from the church too. It really was the perfect amount of kids for the first time. In two weeks we'll have another C.I.A. we hope to bring in a few more kids for that one, but this week was still a great success. My responsibility was telling the Bible story. Our story this week was about how God called Abraham to move to a new land! How absolutely appropriate!!! It also encouraged the kids to be unselfish with there brothers and sisters, like Abraham with Lot when the two of them split company.
Friday: It's the Weekend!!!! Yay!! No Mtg.!!! Went to get some groceries and now I am headed off to get ready for relaxation. I'm headed to a beach house this weekend with a family from Church. We'll be back Sunday morning, but just having Sat. away will be such a blessing! Praise the Lord! Thanks for all your prayers this week and keep them comin'! I am living in the strength and blessings of the Lord one day at a time.
Monday: School, Mtg, then I head off to Redoubt North Wes. for a meeting about C.I.A (Christ in Action) kids club. This was a planning meeting to discuss what our roles were to be on Thursday. God really confirmed that this is where He wants me to be because of the name C.I.A. At IWU I had an amazing experience traveling with a C.I.A drama team for a summer. Peter came up with this same name for the kids club! God is so cool!
Tuesday: School, Mtg, then I went to see a local high school play. It was a Shakespeare play and I can't for the life of me remember the name of it right now. But the kids did a nice job, they shortened it a bit, which I thought was a good touch. Then I went for coffee to catch up with my friend Sam, who is a youth leader at the Fijian Wes. church which I visited last time was here.
Wednesday: School, then off to a choral directors mtg for the APPA choral festival. This is much like the state honors choir festivals that happen in the states. I am taking our choir in November, I am now learning songs in Maori and Samoan for this festival! Also included in the repertoire is John Rutter's "For the Beauty of the Earth" which I absolutely love, so I'm excited. After this meeting, I headed off to my own choir rehearsal for the community choir that I joined with Ferne.
Thursday: School, No Mtg!!!, then off to C.I.A kids club at Redoubt North Wes. We had a great night. There were six kids from the community that came and a few kids from the church too. It really was the perfect amount of kids for the first time. In two weeks we'll have another C.I.A. we hope to bring in a few more kids for that one, but this week was still a great success. My responsibility was telling the Bible story. Our story this week was about how God called Abraham to move to a new land! How absolutely appropriate!!! It also encouraged the kids to be unselfish with there brothers and sisters, like Abraham with Lot when the two of them split company.
Friday: It's the Weekend!!!! Yay!! No Mtg.!!! Went to get some groceries and now I am headed off to get ready for relaxation. I'm headed to a beach house this weekend with a family from Church. We'll be back Sunday morning, but just having Sat. away will be such a blessing! Praise the Lord! Thanks for all your prayers this week and keep them comin'! I am living in the strength and blessings of the Lord one day at a time.
Monday, April 30, 2007
music notes
So let's forget: whole note, half note, dotted half, quarter note, and eitght notes! Now we use semibreve, minim, dotted minim, crotchet, and quarves. Good grief, it hard enough to get kids to understand all the different notes and now I have to learn all new names too! oh well...
I'm off to a meeting, but I have plenty of strories from today, so I'll post them later.
I'm off to a meeting, but I have plenty of strories from today, so I'll post them later.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
School Updates
Well, I've almost finished my first week of teaching a Tamaki Intermediate. I am finding that I have a huge range of students. Not only do I have the kids from Tamaki but I also teach kids from outside schools that come in for specials, which are called technology classes here. So my students come from many different types of cultures and lifestyles. My plans are going to have to change for the Tamaki kids because they do not follow instructions the same way the other kids do. I have to spoon feed them everything right now. I hope to get them past that and help them take some responsibility for their education.
As far as my daily schedule goes, it's not too taxing yet. But we do have block schedules so I have hour and a half classes, which can be too long sometimes. I have a lot to learn yet about how to plan for an hour and a half of class time.
Life is still going well and I am enjoying some absolutely beautiful weather. I love going for walks in the afternoon because I live near a wetland reserve and it is such a nice place to explore. We are supposed to be heading into the rainy season, so I've been taking advantage of as much sunshine as possible.
As far as my daily schedule goes, it's not too taxing yet. But we do have block schedules so I have hour and a half classes, which can be too long sometimes. I have a lot to learn yet about how to plan for an hour and a half of class time.
Life is still going well and I am enjoying some absolutely beautiful weather. I love going for walks in the afternoon because I live near a wetland reserve and it is such a nice place to explore. We are supposed to be heading into the rainy season, so I've been taking advantage of as much sunshine as possible.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Bewildered
Brent: So what are you feeling right now?
Sara: Bewildered! I can't believe everything God is doing!!
I have arrived safe in New Zealand. I've actually been here for about five days now. God is already doing so much that I don't know where to begin filling you all in. Today was my first day of school and it went fairly well. The kids are a bit rowdy but it will just take a little time to get the kids up to my expectations. It will definitely be a challenge, but one that God will encourage me through.
Transportation: Well, the plan to take the bus didn't exactly work out. I took an adventure on Friday and set off to find the school by myself. Haha....right, this city is like 1.2mil. and I def. got stuck in some random suburb. Well, God was watching out for me because as I asked people around how to find the school and/or what bus to take, I came across a family who lived near the school and they took me there. As I visited with this family and got to know them a bit, they offered to pick me up and and drop me off this week!!! Can you believe that? Some random people willing to bring me to school and back! It turns out that they are Mormons. I'm looking forward to possible ministry opportunities with this family. I've already been able to share a few stories of how I came to New Zealand and the blessings God has provided for me.
Sunday: I went to Redoubt North Wes. Church. This was one of the churches I worked with while I was here two years ago and I really feel a special connection to this church. I think I will prob. attend here while I'm in New Zealand. During the prayer request time, I mentioned that I was going to need a vehicle sooner than I thought. Immediately, someone on the other side of the room shouted, "You can have our Mercedes!" It turns out that Allen and his wife Glennis are going to Singapore for about two months and they are more than willing to let me use their car! But get this, it's a Mercedes bins! Yikes, I'm going to need to find some good insurance!
Saturday: I live with a Sri Lanken woman named Ferne. She is quite sweet and we get a long very well. On Saturday night she had a gathering of many believers in the Sri Lanken community for a prayer and worship service in her home. This was a celebration of two years since her husband has gone to live with the Lord. It was such an awesome blessing to worship with this community! We had a delicious Sri Lanken meal (traditionally eaten with your fingers). I was so blessed at this service. Toward the end of the evening the pastor came up to me and shared a Scripture with me, Ruth 3:11 "Do not fear my daughter, for I will provide everything you ask and this whole city will know that you are a woman of virtue." I've never received this type of blessing before and was overwhelmed with comfort from the Holy Spirit.
So, I think this sums up my adventures in the first five days. I prob. left some stuff out, but like I said, I am just bewildered at what God is doing here and the doors He is opening for me. Praise the Lord and may His Kingdom be build up and strengthened!
Sara: Bewildered! I can't believe everything God is doing!!
I have arrived safe in New Zealand. I've actually been here for about five days now. God is already doing so much that I don't know where to begin filling you all in. Today was my first day of school and it went fairly well. The kids are a bit rowdy but it will just take a little time to get the kids up to my expectations. It will definitely be a challenge, but one that God will encourage me through.
Transportation: Well, the plan to take the bus didn't exactly work out. I took an adventure on Friday and set off to find the school by myself. Haha....right, this city is like 1.2mil. and I def. got stuck in some random suburb. Well, God was watching out for me because as I asked people around how to find the school and/or what bus to take, I came across a family who lived near the school and they took me there. As I visited with this family and got to know them a bit, they offered to pick me up and and drop me off this week!!! Can you believe that? Some random people willing to bring me to school and back! It turns out that they are Mormons. I'm looking forward to possible ministry opportunities with this family. I've already been able to share a few stories of how I came to New Zealand and the blessings God has provided for me.
Sunday: I went to Redoubt North Wes. Church. This was one of the churches I worked with while I was here two years ago and I really feel a special connection to this church. I think I will prob. attend here while I'm in New Zealand. During the prayer request time, I mentioned that I was going to need a vehicle sooner than I thought. Immediately, someone on the other side of the room shouted, "You can have our Mercedes!" It turns out that Allen and his wife Glennis are going to Singapore for about two months and they are more than willing to let me use their car! But get this, it's a Mercedes bins! Yikes, I'm going to need to find some good insurance!
Saturday: I live with a Sri Lanken woman named Ferne. She is quite sweet and we get a long very well. On Saturday night she had a gathering of many believers in the Sri Lanken community for a prayer and worship service in her home. This was a celebration of two years since her husband has gone to live with the Lord. It was such an awesome blessing to worship with this community! We had a delicious Sri Lanken meal (traditionally eaten with your fingers). I was so blessed at this service. Toward the end of the evening the pastor came up to me and shared a Scripture with me, Ruth 3:11 "Do not fear my daughter, for I will provide everything you ask and this whole city will know that you are a woman of virtue." I've never received this type of blessing before and was overwhelmed with comfort from the Holy Spirit.
So, I think this sums up my adventures in the first five days. I prob. left some stuff out, but like I said, I am just bewildered at what God is doing here and the doors He is opening for me. Praise the Lord and may His Kingdom be build up and strengthened!
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Flying Across the U.S.
Today I am traveling to New Zealand. I started in Chicago and arrived in L.A. about an hour or so ago, I head off to Auckland in about 1.5hrs. While I was flying across the U.S., I was so blessed. There was so much diversity in landscape that it was just incredible. I saw the Mississippi, the Rockies, the desert, snow, barren land, the Grand Canyon, and much much more. I was reminded about how small I actually am and how big God must be. Praise the Lord for being so gracious to me and blessing my abundantly.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
God is so Good!
For the past week I have been covered in planning and preparing to move over to New Zealand. I have been doing my very best not to have a panic attack(haha) about everything that is happening and has to yet fall into place. I love preparing to go, but there are so many details that have to happen just right. I know God is working every single one of those things into place one at a time.
In the back of my head, I have been a little worried about how all of this was going to work financially, at least getting started, once I'm there for a month or two, I'll be fine. But I didn't want to worry about it, so I kept praying and trying to believe that God was going to come through on this detail too, just as he has with so many others.
On Sunday, I was challenged in giving. Not by the pastor, not by any person. I was moved by the Spirit. I knew God was wanting me to give financially to a ministry that was going to further is Kingdom. In my mind, I couldn't figure out how I could afford to do this, but in my Spirit there was no question. So I did. My plan was not to tell anyone about it and just let this be between the Lord and I. However, the Spirit didn't stop there...
Yesterday, I decided I wanted to buy the Nooma DVD series to use for ministry over in New Zealand. I think they will be a great tool to help teens get who Jesus is and His desire to have a relationship with them. So I researched buying the entire set. My plan was to spend about 150.oo bucks on the set. However, when I called Mars Hill, they put me in connection with the distribution center. I went up to Grandville to pick up the series and found out that they were going to give it to me for 75.00 usually this is a 150.00 dollar value from them or close to 200.o0 dollars at a Christian book store!! How awesome is that? Way Awesome!! God is so Good!!!
But the blessing doesn't stop there. Last night I received a phone call to tell me that my initial financial needs were going to be provided for in any way I needed. Wow!! Looking back on what God has been trying to teach me about obedience in the past few years, is now coming to the forefront of my everyday life in Him.
"Praise the Lord oh my soul, All my inmost being, Praise the Lord!"
In the back of my head, I have been a little worried about how all of this was going to work financially, at least getting started, once I'm there for a month or two, I'll be fine. But I didn't want to worry about it, so I kept praying and trying to believe that God was going to come through on this detail too, just as he has with so many others.
On Sunday, I was challenged in giving. Not by the pastor, not by any person. I was moved by the Spirit. I knew God was wanting me to give financially to a ministry that was going to further is Kingdom. In my mind, I couldn't figure out how I could afford to do this, but in my Spirit there was no question. So I did. My plan was not to tell anyone about it and just let this be between the Lord and I. However, the Spirit didn't stop there...
Yesterday, I decided I wanted to buy the Nooma DVD series to use for ministry over in New Zealand. I think they will be a great tool to help teens get who Jesus is and His desire to have a relationship with them. So I researched buying the entire set. My plan was to spend about 150.oo bucks on the set. However, when I called Mars Hill, they put me in connection with the distribution center. I went up to Grandville to pick up the series and found out that they were going to give it to me for 75.00 usually this is a 150.00 dollar value from them or close to 200.o0 dollars at a Christian book store!! How awesome is that? Way Awesome!! God is so Good!!!
But the blessing doesn't stop there. Last night I received a phone call to tell me that my initial financial needs were going to be provided for in any way I needed. Wow!! Looking back on what God has been trying to teach me about obedience in the past few years, is now coming to the forefront of my everyday life in Him.
"Praise the Lord oh my soul, All my inmost being, Praise the Lord!"
God is so Good!
For the past week I have been covered in planning and preparing to move over to New Zealand. I have been doing my very best not to have a panic attack(haha) about everything that is happening and has to yet fall into place. I love preparing to go, but there are so many details that have to happen just right. I know God is working every single one of those things into place one at a time.
In the back of my head, I have been a little worried about how all of this was going to work financially, at least getting started, once I'm there for a month or two, I'll be fine. But I didn't want to worry about it, so I kept praying and trying to believe that God was going to come through on this detail too, just as he has with so many others.
On Sunday, I was challenged in giving. Not by the pastor, not by any person. I was moved by the Spirit. I knew God was wanting me to give financially to a ministry that was going to further is Kingdom. In my mind, I couldn't figure out how I could afford to do this, but in my Spirit there was no question. So I did. My plan was not to tell anyone about it and just let this be between the Lord and I. However, the Spirit didn't stop there...
Yesterday, I decided I wanted to buy the Nooma DVD series to use for ministry over in New Zealand. I think they will be a great tool to help teens get who Jesus is and His desire to have a relationship with them. So I researched buying the entire set. My plan was to spend about 150.oo bucks on the set. However, when I called Mars Hill, they put me in connection with the distribution center. I went up to Grandville to pick up the series and found out that they were going to give it to me for 75.00 usually this is a 150.00 dollar value from them or close to 200.o0 dollars at a Christian book store!! How awesome is that? Way Awesome!! God is so Good!!!
But the blessing doesn't stop there. Last night I received a phone call to tell me that my initial financial needs were going to be provided for in any way I needed. Wow!! Looking back on what God has been trying to teach me about obedience in the past few years, is now coming to the forefront of my everyday life in Him.
"Praise the Lord oh my soul, All my inmost being, Praise the Lord!"
In the back of my head, I have been a little worried about how all of this was going to work financially, at least getting started, once I'm there for a month or two, I'll be fine. But I didn't want to worry about it, so I kept praying and trying to believe that God was going to come through on this detail too, just as he has with so many others.
On Sunday, I was challenged in giving. Not by the pastor, not by any person. I was moved by the Spirit. I knew God was wanting me to give financially to a ministry that was going to further is Kingdom. In my mind, I couldn't figure out how I could afford to do this, but in my Spirit there was no question. So I did. My plan was not to tell anyone about it and just let this be between the Lord and I. However, the Spirit didn't stop there...
Yesterday, I decided I wanted to buy the Nooma DVD series to use for ministry over in New Zealand. I think they will be a great tool to help teens get who Jesus is and His desire to have a relationship with them. So I researched buying the entire set. My plan was to spend about 150.oo bucks on the set. However, when I called Mars Hill, they put me in connection with the distribution center. I went up to Grandville to pick up the series and found out that they were going to give it to me for 75.00 usually this is a 150.00 dollar value from them or close to 200.o0 dollars at a Christian book store!! How awesome is that? Way Awesome!! God is so Good!!!
But the blessing doesn't stop there. Last night I received a phone call to tell me that my initial financial needs were going to be provided for in any way I needed. Wow!! Looking back on what God has been trying to teach me about obedience in the past few years, is now coming to the forefront of my everyday life in Him.
"Praise the Lord oh my soul, All my inmost being, Praise the Lord!"
Friday, April 06, 2007
Big Move in the News
Well, in my last post, I was slightly disappointed in the direction that my life was moving. Aka..I felt like it wasn't. In the past week, I have been offered a job in Auckland, New Zealand. I'll be teaching music at an intermediate school. I have applied for and received my visa to work in NZ, found my HS diploma for the New Zealand Qualifications Assessment, found housing near the school I'll be teaching at with a Christian woman no less!! God is moving. In my prayers, I think God knew that I was at my max for frustration with all of this, that I was truly desiring to seek Him fully and follow His leading. I am praising God for how He is working out all the details and sending Him all the glory possible for this opportunity.
Date of departure: April 17, 2007. Yes, I realize this is like a week and a half away. Yes, I am a little stressed and covered in paperwork. But I definitely know God is at work here and preparing the way for me. The other night as I was going to bed I had a Scripture from Isaiah running through my head all night. "You shall go out with Joy and be led forth in Peace." I know that I can make this move because Christ is going with me and has gone before me. What an amazing thing this is. I guess this expedited departure means that my road trip is off for the third week of April. But I do plan to go to Indiana on Sunday, April 15. I'll be attending church at first Baptist and I'll be getting to see a couple of friends before I head off on Tuesday.
I covet all of your prayers as I make this transition to another season of my life and follow the path that the Lord has set before me. Please specifically pray for my students and the times that I will have to show them who Jesus is. Please also pray for all the paperwork that is still in process and that has to get worked out in a hurry. Thank you and many blessing on you.
Date of departure: April 17, 2007. Yes, I realize this is like a week and a half away. Yes, I am a little stressed and covered in paperwork. But I definitely know God is at work here and preparing the way for me. The other night as I was going to bed I had a Scripture from Isaiah running through my head all night. "You shall go out with Joy and be led forth in Peace." I know that I can make this move because Christ is going with me and has gone before me. What an amazing thing this is. I guess this expedited departure means that my road trip is off for the third week of April. But I do plan to go to Indiana on Sunday, April 15. I'll be attending church at first Baptist and I'll be getting to see a couple of friends before I head off on Tuesday.
I covet all of your prayers as I make this transition to another season of my life and follow the path that the Lord has set before me. Please specifically pray for my students and the times that I will have to show them who Jesus is. Please also pray for all the paperwork that is still in process and that has to get worked out in a hurry. Thank you and many blessing on you.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Life Goes On
Well, the job I was hoping to get in NZ was given to another individual and now I am in the process of pursuing another one. Who knows what will happen?? I have been praying about this dream every night and often through the day. The thing is, my dream is not to teach. It is to go share the gospel and work with small groups of new believers, studying the Bible and helping others to begin and living active relationship with Jesus Christ. This whole time teaching has just been a means to this end because I need a job because of where I'm at in life...aka...single, no money, just out of college, but totally about living life to the fullest. I think maybe I need to start praying other ways that God wants to use me right now. I have not been really involved in my community right now because I'm worried about getting committed to something and then having to leave. This kills me. I need to be involved with outreach and talking with people about Jesus. I don't know why I am finding this to be so difficult right now. Looks like I have another prayer focus.
This post may sound kinda depressing and I'm sorry about that. Don't think that everything in my life is going wrong. I am working plenty and God is giving me enough sub jobs each week for me to continue saving for NZ. Praise the Lord. I have have been going to the beach more often in the evening to watch the sunset and I treasure this time. I am always reminded of God's love and faithfulness when I do this. Today, I have the day off, which I needed because I have been working a lot of doubles by teaching all day then serving at night. I have decided to plan a road trip for the third week in April to see some dearly loved friends I have not seen in way too long. Today, I also visited one of my friends blogs and was reminded of some great verses in Proverbs that I will look up and into this afternoon. Life goes on...
This post may sound kinda depressing and I'm sorry about that. Don't think that everything in my life is going wrong. I am working plenty and God is giving me enough sub jobs each week for me to continue saving for NZ. Praise the Lord. I have have been going to the beach more often in the evening to watch the sunset and I treasure this time. I am always reminded of God's love and faithfulness when I do this. Today, I have the day off, which I needed because I have been working a lot of doubles by teaching all day then serving at night. I have decided to plan a road trip for the third week in April to see some dearly loved friends I have not seen in way too long. Today, I also visited one of my friends blogs and was reminded of some great verses in Proverbs that I will look up and into this afternoon. Life goes on...
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Roller Coasters
Generally I love roller coasters. I've been known to wait in line for hours for a 1.5 min, of extreme speed and trill ( I know your guilty too). However, the roller coaster I'm experiencing right now isn't the fun kind. I feel like I am riding an emotional roller coaster right now. I just received word yesterday that the school I was looking into in New Zealand had a late applicant for the same job I applied for. He lives there, is very qualified and can start ASAP. They are going to offer him the position. Not that I blame them, it's probably a very smart thing to do and if I were the principal of that school, I'd likely do the same thing. But I'm still extremely bummed out to say the least. I was planning to leave around April 10 but I hadn't told too many people that date, until someone close and dear to me, decided to tell the church choir. Now, I'll have to explain the situation many time over...reliving the disappointment of not being able to go right now again.
It seems as though every time I get close to leaving for New Zealand, something happens that keeps me from being able to go. Then, I'm stuck here feeling like God wants me to leave now and I can't!
Now, to be clear and somewhat optimistic, there still is a chance that this individual will not take the job. If that happens, then I am next on the list. However, I can't see that happening if this man was willing to apply late. I am supposed to find out later tonight what is going to happen. But it may take a couple of days for me to get the results up here, we'll see. I covet your prayers right now.
It seems as though every time I get close to leaving for New Zealand, something happens that keeps me from being able to go. Then, I'm stuck here feeling like God wants me to leave now and I can't!
Now, to be clear and somewhat optimistic, there still is a chance that this individual will not take the job. If that happens, then I am next on the list. However, I can't see that happening if this man was willing to apply late. I am supposed to find out later tonight what is going to happen. But it may take a couple of days for me to get the results up here, we'll see. I covet your prayers right now.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Thankful Thursday
I am going to try to do this every Thursday to help remind myself how thankful I am for the many blessings the Lord graciously gives me each day!
I am thankful for:
Beautiful sunsets!
Desire to seek the Lord through His Word.
Beginning a Bible study with one of my wonderful aunts.
Spending more time with my brother.
JP's Coffee Shop where I spend tons of time researching and e-mailing.
Coffee and Hot tea.
Substitue teaching in a variety of classes.
Getting to teach my little cousin's kindergarden class tomorrow!
My dad, who unexpectantly filled my car with gas today!
God working in my parent's hearts as I desire to move to New Zealand.
The way the snow looks on the trees on a cold morning after a snow blizzard.
Sun on a snowy day.
Taking time to take care of me.
Chocolate (which i should probably eat less of;)
The possibility of teaching at a small Christian school in the Northern tip of New Zealand!
I am thankful for:
Beautiful sunsets!
Desire to seek the Lord through His Word.
Beginning a Bible study with one of my wonderful aunts.
Spending more time with my brother.
JP's Coffee Shop where I spend tons of time researching and e-mailing.
Coffee and Hot tea.
Substitue teaching in a variety of classes.
Getting to teach my little cousin's kindergarden class tomorrow!
My dad, who unexpectantly filled my car with gas today!
God working in my parent's hearts as I desire to move to New Zealand.
The way the snow looks on the trees on a cold morning after a snow blizzard.
Sun on a snowy day.
Taking time to take care of me.
Chocolate (which i should probably eat less of;)
The possibility of teaching at a small Christian school in the Northern tip of New Zealand!
Friday, March 02, 2007
Lack of Posts
I realize that I have not had very many posts recently. I guess that's because my life in constantly changing. I don't feel like I can update you on what in happening because life changes for me on a daily basis. Latest news:
I want to leave for New Zealand so so bad and I feel like the Lord wants me to go soon too. My heart is there and my finances are not. God knows this and has the power to change it, if He wants to. In the mean time, I am working like a horse! I am a substitute teacher by day teaching anything from elementary classes to middle school biology, algebra, physics and Bible. Soon I may be a short-term aid for a EI first-grader. At night, I work as a waitress. I don't do both every single day, but when I do, my butt is kicked!
What I've been reading: "Believing God" by Beth Moore. God has really spoken to me about trusting Him and taking leaps of faith...aka moving to NZ. The other day I went to my aunt's house for the morning to read and study God's word. I needed to get out of my own house and away from common distractions. While I was there, I turned to read many passages from different parts of the Bible, one of those passages was Heb. 11..The Hall of Faith. After this morning, I really felt like the Lord is asking me to leave sooner than later.
Subbing: (Mentioned above) I was at Beaverdam Christian School this week. During my devotion time with the 8th grade I used the book that they have been using and just picked up where they left off last time. The title was, "Holding out on God" it was about giving excuses for not doing what God has asked you to do. It used Heb. 11 to point out how those who have gone before us lived by faith and acted in faith!! Talk about another arrow to the heart making me want to leave now!
Weird coincidence: On Sunday, this lady came up to me and asked me if I was following my calling. Whoa! she had no idea I was struggleing with this. She told me that she had a dream about me being a nurse and sharing the Gospel with my patients. Now, I don't think nursing is my calling, but like I said, I'm not sure teaching music in either. One thing is clear, missions is in my calling in some way shape or form.
Ok...did I miss anything? I think I've covered the pervebial bases of the randomness of my life right now.
I want to leave for New Zealand so so bad and I feel like the Lord wants me to go soon too. My heart is there and my finances are not. God knows this and has the power to change it, if He wants to. In the mean time, I am working like a horse! I am a substitute teacher by day teaching anything from elementary classes to middle school biology, algebra, physics and Bible. Soon I may be a short-term aid for a EI first-grader. At night, I work as a waitress. I don't do both every single day, but when I do, my butt is kicked!
What I've been reading: "Believing God" by Beth Moore. God has really spoken to me about trusting Him and taking leaps of faith...aka moving to NZ. The other day I went to my aunt's house for the morning to read and study God's word. I needed to get out of my own house and away from common distractions. While I was there, I turned to read many passages from different parts of the Bible, one of those passages was Heb. 11..The Hall of Faith. After this morning, I really felt like the Lord is asking me to leave sooner than later.
Subbing: (Mentioned above) I was at Beaverdam Christian School this week. During my devotion time with the 8th grade I used the book that they have been using and just picked up where they left off last time. The title was, "Holding out on God" it was about giving excuses for not doing what God has asked you to do. It used Heb. 11 to point out how those who have gone before us lived by faith and acted in faith!! Talk about another arrow to the heart making me want to leave now!
Weird coincidence: On Sunday, this lady came up to me and asked me if I was following my calling. Whoa! she had no idea I was struggleing with this. She told me that she had a dream about me being a nurse and sharing the Gospel with my patients. Now, I don't think nursing is my calling, but like I said, I'm not sure teaching music in either. One thing is clear, missions is in my calling in some way shape or form.
Ok...did I miss anything? I think I've covered the pervebial bases of the randomness of my life right now.
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Overdue
Well, I'm a little overdue for a post this week. I have spent a ton of time thinking about what it is that I love to do and I'm passionate about. I've discovered some things that already knew for the most part.
First, I am passionate about ministry and sharing Jesus with others. Second, I love music...I like singing, listening to, making up...ect. music. Third, I have a heart for New Zealand and still not sure of my purpose there. I may teach, who knows?? I may be more involved with church ministry?? This I don't know yet, but I have trust that God is working this out for my good.
I've also learned that I'm not sure I love teaching music. I had a good yet extremely taxing student teaching experience and a couple subbing opportunities that make me think this might not be what I'm cut out for. Don't get me wrong, I love kids! and I already know how much the Lord speaks to me and often through me using music, but teaching general music is not my thing. It's so hard to have fun and be excited about something if the kids don't like it. It's not that all the kids don't like music class or that they don't like me, it's just that you can only do so much in a general music class and it's not always exciting like I wish it would be. Hmmm...I'll have to keep pondering this thought. I have invested much time and energy into preparing for this, not to mention the tuition. The other night my mom and I were talking and I felt awful because I told her I wasn't sure about teaching music. She was frustrated to tears because of the huge investment my education has been, talk about a heart-breaker. I'm not writing off the possibility of teaching music for some period of time somewhere because I truly believe that if God wants me to teach music, He'll change my heart.
For now, I am still in the states, just starting a new job. This way I can save some money and go to New Zealand when God opens the door. I was just hired today as a server at a nice restaurant here in town called Ottawa Beach Inn. The best part is that they're not open on Sundays. God knew that I didn't want to work on Sundays, so He worked it out so I wouldn't have to. What a huge blessing! I've also been subbing at a Christian elementary school a couple of days this week. That went well for the most part and I had fun with it. However, I think maybe I should have gotten an El. Ed. degree instead of a Mus. Ed. degree because I really like first graders. I spent a week and a half teaching first grade before I came home for Christmas and today I subbed for first grade again. I just think they are so much fun, and the fact that I got to teach them using the Bible was a plus too.
Well, I think I've used up my readable blog space for this one...I'll keep thinking and post some more later.
First, I am passionate about ministry and sharing Jesus with others. Second, I love music...I like singing, listening to, making up...ect. music. Third, I have a heart for New Zealand and still not sure of my purpose there. I may teach, who knows?? I may be more involved with church ministry?? This I don't know yet, but I have trust that God is working this out for my good.
I've also learned that I'm not sure I love teaching music. I had a good yet extremely taxing student teaching experience and a couple subbing opportunities that make me think this might not be what I'm cut out for. Don't get me wrong, I love kids! and I already know how much the Lord speaks to me and often through me using music, but teaching general music is not my thing. It's so hard to have fun and be excited about something if the kids don't like it. It's not that all the kids don't like music class or that they don't like me, it's just that you can only do so much in a general music class and it's not always exciting like I wish it would be. Hmmm...I'll have to keep pondering this thought. I have invested much time and energy into preparing for this, not to mention the tuition. The other night my mom and I were talking and I felt awful because I told her I wasn't sure about teaching music. She was frustrated to tears because of the huge investment my education has been, talk about a heart-breaker. I'm not writing off the possibility of teaching music for some period of time somewhere because I truly believe that if God wants me to teach music, He'll change my heart.
For now, I am still in the states, just starting a new job. This way I can save some money and go to New Zealand when God opens the door. I was just hired today as a server at a nice restaurant here in town called Ottawa Beach Inn. The best part is that they're not open on Sundays. God knew that I didn't want to work on Sundays, so He worked it out so I wouldn't have to. What a huge blessing! I've also been subbing at a Christian elementary school a couple of days this week. That went well for the most part and I had fun with it. However, I think maybe I should have gotten an El. Ed. degree instead of a Mus. Ed. degree because I really like first graders. I spent a week and a half teaching first grade before I came home for Christmas and today I subbed for first grade again. I just think they are so much fun, and the fact that I got to teach them using the Bible was a plus too.
Well, I think I've used up my readable blog space for this one...I'll keep thinking and post some more later.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Hodgepodge
Well this post is going to be filled with many random things that are happening in my life right now. First off, it's a winter wonderland in Holland, Michigan. Over the past two days we've gotten about 16-20 inches of snow(all lake effect). It is really beautiful to look at and ski in but not so fun to drive in. Thankfully I have not been in any ditches or accidents.
Second, I am applying for sub. teacher positions and waitress positions for the next couple of months. I have been actively pursuing a teaching job in New Zealand for the past few weeks and I was hoping to go this month. However, that was not the timing the Lord had in mind. The schools are moving remarkably slow in regards to communication and hiring. I also have a bunch of loose ends in the states that have to get straightened out before I go. Most everything is "in process" so to speak. Meaning, I've done all I can at this point and now it's up to the government to pull through (scary thought). I'm ok with sticking around Holland for a while, I just really need a job now.
I will be spending much of my day tomorrow figuring out just exactly it is that I am passionate about and want to do as a career. You will prob. hear about it more in future posts. There many things that come to mind, but I need to figure out what to do with my life, at least for now.
Third, I got a haircut the other day(actually all of them). This may seem fairly insignificant to many people, however, I have been growing my hair out for a couple of years now and it was as long as it has ever been in my entire life (halfway down my back--all curly). Now, it is layered and up to my shoulders. I was washing it the other day and was like, "hey, where'd all my hair go?!" Anyway, I like it and it feels great.
I guess that the hodgepodge of info on my life that I have for tonight. I have a feeling that I'll have tons of thoughts to put out there tomorrow night.
Second, I am applying for sub. teacher positions and waitress positions for the next couple of months. I have been actively pursuing a teaching job in New Zealand for the past few weeks and I was hoping to go this month. However, that was not the timing the Lord had in mind. The schools are moving remarkably slow in regards to communication and hiring. I also have a bunch of loose ends in the states that have to get straightened out before I go. Most everything is "in process" so to speak. Meaning, I've done all I can at this point and now it's up to the government to pull through (scary thought). I'm ok with sticking around Holland for a while, I just really need a job now.
I will be spending much of my day tomorrow figuring out just exactly it is that I am passionate about and want to do as a career. You will prob. hear about it more in future posts. There many things that come to mind, but I need to figure out what to do with my life, at least for now.
Third, I got a haircut the other day(actually all of them). This may seem fairly insignificant to many people, however, I have been growing my hair out for a couple of years now and it was as long as it has ever been in my entire life (halfway down my back--all curly). Now, it is layered and up to my shoulders. I was washing it the other day and was like, "hey, where'd all my hair go?!" Anyway, I like it and it feels great.
I guess that the hodgepodge of info on my life that I have for tonight. I have a feeling that I'll have tons of thoughts to put out there tomorrow night.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Wilderness
Right now I am in a wilderness of sorts. I am not stuck in a desert or stranded in some physically barren place. No, I'm being led by the hand through a time in my life when I don't have any answers. And for some reason, I feel that it's ok. I know God is with me. I am in a time of waiting. I am waiting to see where God is leading me next. I am waiting a job confirmation. I am waiting to see what the next season of my life holds. Simply stated, I am waiting.
Now, I think there is a difference between being totally clueless and not having the answers for life that I think I "need" right now. The reality is that I am waiting with great expectations. I know that God has called me and that He is with me always. I am sure of the fact that I am a dearly loved child of God. However, when a child is dearly loved there needs to be an element of trust. I need to trust that God is working all things out for my own good right at this very moment.
Currently, I am living at home, in Holland. I am waiting for answers on a couple of teaching positions that I applied for over in New Zealand. Most, if not all, of you know that it has been my dream for the past two years to go back there and serve in whatever capacity the Lord allows me to. Because I believe that this dream was put in my heart for a very special reason I have been chasing it with all my strength. I have been encouraged to give up. I've been told "No." I've felt God ask me to leave it in His hands. So there it has been for the past 4-5 months, in His hands. Recently God has been gradually giving this dream back to me and showing me many things that have to happen for it to come true. I know that I cannot make this dream happen on my own in any way. It has to be God leading me and opening doors for me. I have to be obedient to follow one step at time.
So, as I wait in this wilderness for God to say, "Here we go!" or "Just wait a little bit longer." I know that God is with me. I know that He is always a few steps ahead of me, preparing the way. I know that I can be strong in Him and wait patiently for His direction. Even if that means that I stay in Holland and work for a while before heading off to New Zealand.
Now, I think there is a difference between being totally clueless and not having the answers for life that I think I "need" right now. The reality is that I am waiting with great expectations. I know that God has called me and that He is with me always. I am sure of the fact that I am a dearly loved child of God. However, when a child is dearly loved there needs to be an element of trust. I need to trust that God is working all things out for my own good right at this very moment.
Currently, I am living at home, in Holland. I am waiting for answers on a couple of teaching positions that I applied for over in New Zealand. Most, if not all, of you know that it has been my dream for the past two years to go back there and serve in whatever capacity the Lord allows me to. Because I believe that this dream was put in my heart for a very special reason I have been chasing it with all my strength. I have been encouraged to give up. I've been told "No." I've felt God ask me to leave it in His hands. So there it has been for the past 4-5 months, in His hands. Recently God has been gradually giving this dream back to me and showing me many things that have to happen for it to come true. I know that I cannot make this dream happen on my own in any way. It has to be God leading me and opening doors for me. I have to be obedient to follow one step at time.
So, as I wait in this wilderness for God to say, "Here we go!" or "Just wait a little bit longer." I know that God is with me. I know that He is always a few steps ahead of me, preparing the way. I know that I can be strong in Him and wait patiently for His direction. Even if that means that I stay in Holland and work for a while before heading off to New Zealand.
Sunday, January 21, 2007
I Love You!
If you ask me this is one of the most beautiful ways Jesus says, "I love you." Granted there are countless others including the cross, which is by far the most important.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Crisp, Clean, and Beautiful
Today I was driving back up to Michigan after being in Indiana for the weekend. After the Lake effect snow/ice last night, the trees were covered in ice and the ground was beautifully white. Everything was crisp and new. I loved it. God is so good to me when He reveals a special picture of creation for me, He knows I love that. Then tonight the sunset was absolutely wonderful! I wish I had pictures to show you.
This weekend I took the test for my Indiana State teaching license. It was a killer but I hope that I did ok. I was also able to visit some dear friends and spend my best friend's birthday at her house watching the colts win and playing game 'til we couldn't think straight and had to go to bed. It was tons of fun. This weekend was such a blessing for me. Eventhough I had to take that test on Saturday, the Lord really used this weekend to refocus my thinking and help rejuvenate my spirit through friendships and the beauty of His creation.
This weekend I took the test for my Indiana State teaching license. It was a killer but I hope that I did ok. I was also able to visit some dear friends and spend my best friend's birthday at her house watching the colts win and playing game 'til we couldn't think straight and had to go to bed. It was tons of fun. This weekend was such a blessing for me. Eventhough I had to take that test on Saturday, the Lord really used this weekend to refocus my thinking and help rejuvenate my spirit through friendships and the beauty of His creation.
Friday, January 12, 2007
Breakfast with Jan
Today I brought my grandparents to the airport as they are off to Florida for some time. I decided that I would go out for breakfast afterward. One of my favorite restaurants is Arnies and we don't have any in Holland, so I took advantage of the opportunity to have some really yummy French toast. When I was waiting be seated there was a single lady in front of me. The hostess was going to bring us both to our seats at the same time so I just simply asked the lady if she would like to have breakfast with me. She was kinda shocked, but said sure. So we talked and I got to know her a little bit and she got to know me a little bit. I was nervous at first but then decided to go for it and we had a splendid breakfast. I still am a little shocked that I did this, but hey...Why not eat breakfast with a stranger every now and then?
Monday, January 08, 2007
Green Totilla Chili
So I've discovered that I really like the Rachael Ray Show. I love watching her make fun recipies and then trying to cook myself. Well, the other day I made Green tortilla chili. It's not really green but it uses green salsa..hence the "green" in the name. I had so much fun making this soup but I will tell you it's not quite as quick and easy as they make it look on TV. If I didn't have a chopper, it would have taken even longer because there are quite a few ingrediants. The funniest part of all is this soup calls for one beer! Well you can't just go the store and buy one can of beer, so I bought my first six pack of bud-light in order to make this soup. I hid the other five in the garage so my brother wouldn't drink them (he's not of age just yet). Maybe I'll make beer bread or something this week to use it up, we'll see. To my great delight the soup turned out wonderful. My family really liked it and it is so yummy with tortilla chips. If you like spicy soup, you would definitely like this soup! It's resturant quality (at least I think so). So I posted a couple pictures above but I don't know exactly how to put them where I want to in the blog...hence they're at the top. I'm not really a blog genius and I'm ok with that.
Saturday, January 06, 2007
The Escapade came to an end
Well we arrived home safe and sound on New Years Eve. We left FL on a ridiculous flight at 5:30am. Needless to say we woke up at like 3:00AM and were at the airport by 4:00am thankfully our hotel that night was connected to the airport. It would have been pointless going to bed otherwise. I'm just thankful to be home safe.
Now I am trying to figure out what comes next. I think I will be moving to Nebraska for the next six months or so to be part of a church plant planning team. Then in August I hope to head off to NZ! Maybe even sooner, but for now the plan is August.
Currently I am staying at home until I head to Indiana to take the Praxis II music test in order to receive my teaching license. This test is on January 13, I'd appreciate your prayers as I prepare for and take this test. It's the last thing of many years of preparation and a degree in music education.
Now I am trying to figure out what comes next. I think I will be moving to Nebraska for the next six months or so to be part of a church plant planning team. Then in August I hope to head off to NZ! Maybe even sooner, but for now the plan is August.
Currently I am staying at home until I head to Indiana to take the Praxis II music test in order to receive my teaching license. This test is on January 13, I'd appreciate your prayers as I prepare for and take this test. It's the last thing of many years of preparation and a degree in music education.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
The Escapade Continues...Wed. and Thurs.
On Wednesday we went to Universal Studios. It was pretty neat and the weather was decent too. It was a bit chilly but I'd rather have it be a little cold than 85 degrees when waiting in long lines. I definatey found out that the express pass is the way to go (this pass gets to the front of the line and you don't wait more than 20 minutes). We chose not to buy this pass so we waited in line with everybody else. Lines were about an hour long sometimes longer for most of the day but we saw some of the main attractions. My personal favorite was either the Shrek 4-D show or the E.T. ride. Shrek was diffinitely better, but because I've been wanting to ride the E.T. thing since I was 10, it was pretty cool too. Wednesday was free from random nonsense for the most part I think..but Thursday was full of it.
Thurday the weather finally got really nice. We were able to stay by the pool and soak in some sun for a while. My mom and went to this cute little European Village not too far from our place. It had lots of fun little shops, however we didn't buy anything significant, which was probably a good thing. We had lunch at a English Tea house which was wonderful and I did get some really great tea.
The escapade began in the evening. My brother and my Dad wanted to go on this Sun Cruise boat for the night. My mom and I really couldn't have cared less if we went or not. We knew the boat was like casino deal and we didn't want to lose any money. The boat trip went from 7pm to 12am. We left the condo around 5:15 because we didn't know exactly how to get to this boat and boarding starting at 6:30. The boat was supposably about 45 minutes away. We got in the car and started following the directions. So far so good...that is until the directions stopped working. We found the right exit but then the directions must have been missing a few steps. We drove around for a while to see if we could find the roads on our directions but to no avail. My mom and I just let the boys drive and we finally stopped for directions. Well ended up stopping twice and we ended up getting many different directions. Eventualy we did find this boat and boarded around 6:45pm.
Everthing was going just fine until the last hour and a half. The boat anchored in the ocean so the wind blew the boat around quite a bit and made it really hard to stand in one place or keep balance. Now I'm not one to get sea sick, in fact I've never gotten sea sick in my life and I grew up on the water. There's a first for everything and this was my turn to get sick. In fact, my mom, dad and I were all green behind the gills so to speak. The only one of us who was able to walk around was my brother. I was just praying for the moment when we would arrive safe and sound back on land. At midnight we did, praise the Lord. My brother drove all of us sea sickies home and we descided it would be ok if we didn't set foot on a boat for a while.
Another escapade has come to and end but we still have Friday and Saturday for more fun filled adventures on the Dekker Family Christmas Vacation.
Thurday the weather finally got really nice. We were able to stay by the pool and soak in some sun for a while. My mom and went to this cute little European Village not too far from our place. It had lots of fun little shops, however we didn't buy anything significant, which was probably a good thing. We had lunch at a English Tea house which was wonderful and I did get some really great tea.
The escapade began in the evening. My brother and my Dad wanted to go on this Sun Cruise boat for the night. My mom and I really couldn't have cared less if we went or not. We knew the boat was like casino deal and we didn't want to lose any money. The boat trip went from 7pm to 12am. We left the condo around 5:15 because we didn't know exactly how to get to this boat and boarding starting at 6:30. The boat was supposably about 45 minutes away. We got in the car and started following the directions. So far so good...that is until the directions stopped working. We found the right exit but then the directions must have been missing a few steps. We drove around for a while to see if we could find the roads on our directions but to no avail. My mom and I just let the boys drive and we finally stopped for directions. Well ended up stopping twice and we ended up getting many different directions. Eventualy we did find this boat and boarded around 6:45pm.
Everthing was going just fine until the last hour and a half. The boat anchored in the ocean so the wind blew the boat around quite a bit and made it really hard to stand in one place or keep balance. Now I'm not one to get sea sick, in fact I've never gotten sea sick in my life and I grew up on the water. There's a first for everything and this was my turn to get sick. In fact, my mom, dad and I were all green behind the gills so to speak. The only one of us who was able to walk around was my brother. I was just praying for the moment when we would arrive safe and sound back on land. At midnight we did, praise the Lord. My brother drove all of us sea sickies home and we descided it would be ok if we didn't set foot on a boat for a while.
Another escapade has come to and end but we still have Friday and Saturday for more fun filled adventures on the Dekker Family Christmas Vacation.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
The Dekker Family Vacation
Well...where do I start. I am on yet another Dekker escapade. We started out on Saturday night by driving down to Chicago in order to catch our 7:00am flight on Sunday morning. We had a really nice dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. So far, this has been the most normal part of our family vacation. After taking a bump on our flight, getting some ticket vouchers, and then arriving in Orlando we took off for our condo in Palm Coast. On the way to the rental car place, my brother realized that he gave the shuttle guy a really nice fifty dollar tip on the way to the airport that morning (oops! Merry Christmas shuttle guy). Then it was off to Palm Coast to the Celebrity Resort. We found it after driving in circles a few times and stopping to ask for directions. This Celebrity Resort was found behind a bunch of construction on a gravel road with no lights to help us identify the place. Now, remeber this is Christmas Eve, so there is nobody to check us in. We were told to use the phone to get a code to open a box and get a key that would open our place. However, when we arrived we were met by a nice young man who I'm sure was very knowledgable about this resort, he just didn't know how to tell us anything in English. I think he was from Somewhere in Eastern Europe.
We found our room, unpacked our luggage and realized we needed to get some food. We then tried to rush over to Wal-mart and Publix for groceries before they closed. We didn't make it. So we went to Walgreens and bought groceries! Let me tell ya, it was all the entertainment one could ask for in one night. We came back to the place and made a frozen pizza and watched, "A Christmas Story." On Christmas day we went up to Daytona Beach to see what there was there. We ate Christmas dinner at a great B-B-Q place called, Hogs Heavan! It was hilarious, it was rainy and gloomy but the BBQ was great. Then we went over to the beach. (Remember it is about 70 degrees and dropping). There were a few tourist on the beach who were determined to have a nice Christmas on the beach regardless of bad weather and a few die hard locals taking advantage of the surf conditions.
While we were wondering around the beach a little bit, I noticed a truck coming down the beach. It happened to be the beach patrol telling everybody to get off the beach. "Everyone off the beach and out of the water, servere weathere is approaching!" So, I made an executive descision that my family was getting the heck out of dodge ASAP. So we got in the rental car and headed back up to Palm Coast. When we got back to the condo and turned on the TV, we saw that we had just driven out of a Tornado! There was tons of wind damage done in Daytona Beach, just after we got out of there. Evidently it was a weak F2 tornado.
As of Tuesday, we are still safe and the weather is still cold, but today was not rainy so that's a plus. I'll keep you posted on our next adventure as it unfolds.
We found our room, unpacked our luggage and realized we needed to get some food. We then tried to rush over to Wal-mart and Publix for groceries before they closed. We didn't make it. So we went to Walgreens and bought groceries! Let me tell ya, it was all the entertainment one could ask for in one night. We came back to the place and made a frozen pizza and watched, "A Christmas Story." On Christmas day we went up to Daytona Beach to see what there was there. We ate Christmas dinner at a great B-B-Q place called, Hogs Heavan! It was hilarious, it was rainy and gloomy but the BBQ was great. Then we went over to the beach. (Remember it is about 70 degrees and dropping). There were a few tourist on the beach who were determined to have a nice Christmas on the beach regardless of bad weather and a few die hard locals taking advantage of the surf conditions.
While we were wondering around the beach a little bit, I noticed a truck coming down the beach. It happened to be the beach patrol telling everybody to get off the beach. "Everyone off the beach and out of the water, servere weathere is approaching!" So, I made an executive descision that my family was getting the heck out of dodge ASAP. So we got in the rental car and headed back up to Palm Coast. When we got back to the condo and turned on the TV, we saw that we had just driven out of a Tornado! There was tons of wind damage done in Daytona Beach, just after we got out of there. Evidently it was a weak F2 tornado.
As of Tuesday, we are still safe and the weather is still cold, but today was not rainy so that's a plus. I'll keep you posted on our next adventure as it unfolds.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Wrapping Up
I've finished my studies at IWU. I am totally excited and nervous at the same time. I have open doors to walk through as far as what to do for the next part of my life, the challenge is picking what's best over what's good. What an amazing blessing to even have choices. Today, I was talking with the aid in my first grade classroom. (I'm subbing in first grade right now). We were talking about how long it is taking for the kids to grasp some of the concepts that we are trying to teach as well as some behavior issues. She told me that these students needed a very special person to stay with them and get through to them this year. Then she told me that she thinks that God sent me as that person. I'm not sure what to do with this. It's an incredible encouragement because she has 25 years+ experience as a teacher and really knows how to reach children. At the same time, I don't know if the school will want me to teach this class for good period of time next semester. I am sending a letter of interest to the principle tomorrow. I've already talked to her about it and she told me that I don't have to apply, just send her a letter with my contact info. We'll just have to pray and wait through this. Please pray with me and praise the Lord for His faithfulness and sovereignty in our lives.
Friday, December 08, 2006
What is a Missionary?....
This was a question from one of my students today. There are a few classes that I will not see next week because I finish up on Wednesday. Though I am totally ready to graduate, I'll miss "my" kids. Some of the kids were asking me where I was going and what I'll be doing. I told them that I was going to be a missionary. One student shouted out, "What is a missionary?" then I had about seven hands go up saying, "I know, I know!!" So I called on "Sally" and she said (with the brightest smile ever) "A missionary is some one who travels all over the world telling people about Jesus!" Obviously there is a ton more to it, but in all reality, it's true. A missionary tells people about Jesus through word and deed. There are missionaries all over the world, here and overseas. Even if you are a Christian who does not have a call to over-seas missions, you are a missionary in your own neighborhood and workplace. "Blessed are the feet of those who bring Good News!"
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Deep Breath
It's Over...I uploaded my e-folio this week and now I am on the home stretch. Just two more week until I am an official graduate of Indiana Wesleyan University. The last big think I have to do is my portfolio defense. I'm not too worried about this right now. I might get nervous in a week or so, but for now, life is good. I am so thankful for all the prayers that have been getting me though this. The other day, I was so frustrated with my e-folio because I had been up all night and then taught all day. Needless to say, I was somewhat of a basket case! I was driving home from school and just talking to Jesus. As I was talking, I was reminded of the so many ways He has been faithful to me this semester and the ways I have been strengthened by the Holy Spirit. At that point I was able to take a deep breath and say, "Everything is going to be ok, I am going to get through this." Right now I feel like a huge burden has been lifted from me. Now I actually have some time to catch up with some friends and invest in the lives of those I love. Praise the Lord. No doubt, I will need the strength of the Lord to finish this out, but I am confident that his perfect grace will see me through.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Thanksgiving
I am Thankful for...(in no particular order)
Beautiful Sunsets
Family
JP's Coffee Shop
Friends
Education...though sometimes I wonder why
The new Lipton Tea pyramids...Specifically Vanilla Caramel Truffle
Crafts...I'm thinking of what my next stress relief craft is going to be after I finish this semester..if you have any good ideas, please share!
Jesus:)
Discipleship
Adventures...
Beautiful Sunsets
Family
JP's Coffee Shop
Friends
Education...though sometimes I wonder why
The new Lipton Tea pyramids...Specifically Vanilla Caramel Truffle
Crafts...I'm thinking of what my next stress relief craft is going to be after I finish this semester..if you have any good ideas, please share!
Jesus:)
Discipleship
Adventures...
Friday, November 17, 2006
Inspiration
Why are we inspired? or What keeps us from feeling inspired? And to add one more question to the mix, how do we act on inspiration? I am really talking (aka writing) myself through the last question. Over the past many weeks I have been experiencing tons of inspiration from many areas of my life...Motivational speakers, teachers, friends, and most importantly, God's Word. How is it that I feel so inspired and want so badly to do "good" right now but can't because something inside me says, "You just can't do this anymore, you're not cut out for this." What is this voice inside of of me that is holding me back from experiencing and acting upon the dreams that God has placed in my heart? Why am I finding it so hard to finish this chapter of my life and move on? What is distracting me from embracing the life God has for me? I know the simple answer to these questions is Satan. But what form is he taking in my life? I convince myself to think positively, yet there is still this dust of doubt. I tell myself that I can do this, yet I don't do it. I tell myself that I believe in who God created me to be, but if I'm doubting myself, do I really? I feel like Peter, wanting so badly to tell the world about Jesus...then denying Him. I'm not saying that I deny knowing Christ, but I am saying that I desire to serve the Lord and feel as though I am letting Him down. The other part of me is saying just jump into this life over your head and see what God does with you. Sara, put your complete trust in the Lord, in your weakness and in your strength.
I really have no idea what is prompting my to write these things right now and I think that I'd rather not post this. But something is telling me that I should. It's risky to bear the heart, but I know those who read this, already know my heart. Amen.
I really have no idea what is prompting my to write these things right now and I think that I'd rather not post this. But something is telling me that I should. It's risky to bear the heart, but I know those who read this, already know my heart. Amen.
Monday, November 06, 2006
"Feed Me Seymour!!"
The title of this post is inspired by a recent viewing of, "Little Shop of Horrors." However, the contents of this post are more about the spiritual feeding I have been experiencing recently. As I glanced through the bulletin before church, I saw that the title of today's sermon was, "Friends." To my surprise the real sermon was entitled, "God's Work In You." The Scripture reading came from Phil. 1:6 "...being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it out to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." This is the verse that gave me the courage to continue and finish my student teaching at IWU. Many of you may not know that I seriously considered not finishing and going straight into full-time mission work.
Over and over I was reminded how God put a desire in my heart to serve Him through teaching and through music. I rememberd the first two years of college when I wanted to be the best music teacher ever. I knew that God started this work in me for some reason and I must faithfully finish the task He has currently set before me, in order to glorify Him in all of it. So I came back, hesitantly, but I did it.
I am getting down to the last month of my education at IWU, and I am looking forward to being completely finished earning my music education degree. There have been many times I wanted to quit, but I did not. I have been living in the grace and strength of God everyday. Through the prayers being lifted up on my behalf and the faithfulness of the Lord, He is working to complete this work in me. I am getting to the point where it is hard to motivate myself to do the extra writing that goes into the e-folio portion of my student teaching requirements. But I have confidence to know that God will give me words and energy to do so.
Through many conversations with friends, prayer, reading Scripture, and listening more than talking, God is clearly speaking to me. I know that I can do this and I can finish strong because in my weakness, Christ's strength is perfect. I know that I can do all things through Him who gives me strength and that, God, who began this work in me will faithfully carry it out to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Over and over I was reminded how God put a desire in my heart to serve Him through teaching and through music. I rememberd the first two years of college when I wanted to be the best music teacher ever. I knew that God started this work in me for some reason and I must faithfully finish the task He has currently set before me, in order to glorify Him in all of it. So I came back, hesitantly, but I did it.
I am getting down to the last month of my education at IWU, and I am looking forward to being completely finished earning my music education degree. There have been many times I wanted to quit, but I did not. I have been living in the grace and strength of God everyday. Through the prayers being lifted up on my behalf and the faithfulness of the Lord, He is working to complete this work in me. I am getting to the point where it is hard to motivate myself to do the extra writing that goes into the e-folio portion of my student teaching requirements. But I have confidence to know that God will give me words and energy to do so.
Through many conversations with friends, prayer, reading Scripture, and listening more than talking, God is clearly speaking to me. I know that I can do this and I can finish strong because in my weakness, Christ's strength is perfect. I know that I can do all things through Him who gives me strength and that, God, who began this work in me will faithfully carry it out to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Thanks
Thank you for praying for me! Today, I was driving to school in the morning and I felt lifted up in prayer. I know that God is sustaining me by His grace and the prayers of His faithful servants. I can't express my gratitude enough. I am so thankful for all the prayers being lifted up on my behalf. God bless you and keep you always.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Printing labels
So today I spent about a half hour trying to get some dang labels to print for my lesson plan notebook. I was thoroughly ready to break the printer! I never got them printed...until tonight that is. It took me about a minute to type and print the labels at home tonight. Praise the Lord! I guess the bad news is that I wasted a half hour prep, but the good news is that I'm not a total idiot and it must be that the printer at school is from the ice age.
This brings me to another thought. I wish that our portfolio for student teaching was still on paper and not an e-folio. Somehow I feel better about organizing things myself rather than relying on a link to correctly connect my index to each paper and artifact. Maybe in the long run I'll like the e-folio, but for right now it's nothing less than irritating. Now that I've gotten on my soap box for the night, I'll stop complaining and just keep on working to the end. (Did I mention it's almost the end?1 month and 15 days to graduation...but who's counting?)
This brings me to another thought. I wish that our portfolio for student teaching was still on paper and not an e-folio. Somehow I feel better about organizing things myself rather than relying on a link to correctly connect my index to each paper and artifact. Maybe in the long run I'll like the e-folio, but for right now it's nothing less than irritating. Now that I've gotten on my soap box for the night, I'll stop complaining and just keep on working to the end. (Did I mention it's almost the end?1 month and 15 days to graduation...but who's counting?)
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Back to the Grindstone
So I'm trying to set goals for myself as far as my portfolio goes. I would love to have it completely finished next week! However, I'm really struggling with motivation. I need prayer for this area of my life. I find myself desiring to get this finished but not getting it done, I get distracted or I find it pointless to write the same eight papers over and over. I don't know what it is, but whatever is happening is keeping me from doing my best. I do great in the classroom but it's the behind the scene work that killin' me here. Pray that I am given new strength and new motivation to complete this work! Also that I have the words to write. Thanks for your prayers and encouragement!
Friday, October 27, 2006
Fall Break
It's fall break for Eastern Elementary and I'd like to fall over...I think I'll watch the world series instead. I am thankful to have the day off tomorrow and I plan to go visit a couple dear friends. I am looking forward to having a little down time. Granted I have tons of work to do, but I think I need to feed my very deprived social life right now. I miss my friends dearly and I pour so much time into school that I don't even talk to my friends very often. Sometimes I feel like a bad friend, but then again, I have to tell myself that this is only for short time in my life and soon it will be over. Right now I am going to enjoy some baseball.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Quick Breath
I am taking a quick breath in this whole process...aka transition from middle to elementary school. Today was my second day at Eastern Elementary in Greentown, IN. I think I am going to love this placement. I'm still not set on teaching music as a profession but I know I was born to teach in some way, shape or form. This week I am frantically trying to get caught up on my e-folio for IWU because for the past two months I have been doing nothing except trying to stay afloat as a middle school teacher. My days were often 10-11 hours at school..ah! That was sometimes enough to make me go nuts. My elementary placement is not going to be near as stressful. I'll be writing 12 lesson plans a week as compared to 6 a day! I think I will be a bit more normal and maybe even have a life every now and then. I will also try to keep this more up to date in the next months so that those of you praying for me know what to pray for. Right now I am praising the Lord for this transition and praying for strength to finish well.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
New Face 2 Face Ministry
I am home from an amazing summer. My home in Indiana that is. I have just begun my student teaching experience and I am not sure what to think yet. I love students and I love teaching, but I just don't know how God is going to use me to further His kingdom through any of this. My goal is to seek frist His kingdom and I feel like I am not doing that at school. Hmm...How is this connected to what I will do in the future? I have no idea, but for now, I must trust that God knows what He's doing with my life. I just have so many questions about what my ministry looks like at School, face 2 face with so many students, many of whom need Jesus!!
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Rejoice
So today I feel incredibly blessed. It is over 100 degrees and yet the Lord is watching over me. Many days I have to take photos up at Mt. Rushmore for much of the day. Today however, I only had two pictures before it reached 100 degrees. I am so thankful that I did not have to walk around Mt. R. all day and driving back and forth between the museum and the mountian. Even though it is hot, It feels wonderful to not be in the sun all day! I pray that this grace flows over to this evening. At the Pitchfork Fondue there is no air conditioning. We set up about 10 fans, but that doesn't do much good when it's so hot. I pray that God might send us a short rain to cool off the evening. I also worry for the performers. Many of them wear costumes that have long sleves. They've got to be way too hot. Hopefully no one will pass out. For now, I am going to rejoice in the blessings I have already recieved and pray that it continues into the evening.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Hills Alive
The Hills were Alive with the sound of music! (the Black Hills that is) This past weekend Rapid City hosted a Christian music festival that was wonderful. I had the opportunity to go on Sunday afternoon and evening. The music was great, time spent with friends was great, and get this, It was FREE! Yeah, this entire event was free and not lacking in big name artists. One of my highlights from the day was Natalie Grant sining the hymn, "In Christ Alone." This is one of my favorite hymns and it has been getting me through the past two weeks of work. I also enjoyed hearing the Newsboys. They were great. One thing that I really appreciated about their show is that they stopped sing for a little bit and gave a message about the living life as a Christian. It really put action behind their music and it was meaningful. However, the music was amazing and I really like the lyrics to many of their songs, they make you think.This was a day that I really needed to spend praising the Lord and resting in Him. I'm so thankful God allowed me to have time to go to this concert. I've been kinda tired for the past couple of weeks and this gave just the energy I needed to keep going. Praise the Lord!
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Wedding Pictures
Here are some pictures from my "recent" trip to MI for my dear friend Vanessa's wedding. For those of you at home or around the world, here is a little bit of my life from IWU. Enjoy!
The Veeches
Kori, Angie, and Vanessa
Me and Angie
Me and Vanessa
Goofy Groomsmen
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