This morning I woke up, like many of you did I imagine, and was quickly reminded of the date. June 21st. In case you don't know every detail concerning my life, today was my original leave Haiti date. A little bit crazy, right? Well for me it is, to think that as I type this now, 5 months ago I imagined I would be back in America, done with an "experience", eating cheeseburgers, taking hot showers, in cooler places with lighter faces. 3 weeks in to my time here, I was ready for this day. 3 months later and I was devastated thinking about it. With only 2 hours left of it, I can say that I have experienced those emotions and then some, set on repeat. Thankful, honored, humbled, tired, hungry, exhausted, excited, scared, hopeful.
It is almost comical to me to think about my first journal entry for Haiti, as I sat on the plane, my head and heart full of ideas on what these next 5 months would look like. Not only have they flown by and simultaneously dragged on in some way, but they have been nothing short of surprise after surprise, the unexpected mixed with the duh moments of "of course, I should have seen this coming".
I guess Jesus is brilliant like that. And I guess its not a guess. Because when I look back on my day, one of the most chaotic in all my histories of days here, and I think back on my first day and then factor in all those in between, the days where I thought I could stay here forever, the days I was certain I would starve, the days I knew Jesus was before and behind me, and the days where I wondered if he remembered I was here at all, the only thing that is actually certain to me about them is him.
His word says, "take heart, for I have overcome the world." My amplified version goes even further and says "deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you." I didn't believe that today. I didn't believe it yesterday. There are so many days where I wanted to crumple up my index card with this verse on it and say really God? Did you really conquer it for me, because I am feeling like the conquered one right now. Today. I wanted to do that today. Every bit of my heart wanted to throw in the towel, say God I am tired, not the one for the job, whatever job that is, and take a nap for a month. I know I am being a bit dramatic but extreme heat and 5 months worth of rice will do that to anyone. The hard seems harder and the rough, rougher. Yet as I write this, tears pour down my face. They come from a place in my heart that whispers above all the screaming, and the fear and the chaos and says "jess, take heart. be confident, undaunted, strong." I cry because I believe it. Because even on the days when I didn't feel him, I knew and believed in my refuge. That is what I am confident in. That is what helped me sign on the dotted line for 1 more month, what allows me to believe that its all for my good, that he is constant, sovereign, in love with me, for me, my tower, the light unto my path, my dad.
I know this is a tad sappy with a side of melodramatic but its where my heart is. I wont be eating any cheeseburgers today or anytime soon for that matter, but I trust his bigger picture. (and I found Kraft mac n cheese at the gas station today AND a cherry 7up, that's whats up)
So, with that said, I am ready to see what this last month may hold. I don't want to waste this extra time I have been given nor do I want to wish it away. Whoever you are reading this, I want to say that even though I am in the driest season yet of my life and the last one to be talking right now, Jesus wants you to know that he is on your side, that his goodness and mercy are chasing after you, even and especially in your weakness. That when your weakness is heavy upon you, you can stop and praise the Lord that his strength is about to kick in and carry you over whatever it is. I believe that tonight. I may not feel like it, but I believe it. And I know that each moment I choose to believe it regardless of how I feel is another moment strengthening my faith.
"I have told you these things so that in me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [ I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you] John 16:33
Friday, June 21, 2013
Monday, June 17, 2013
monday
Today was quite the day. One of those, "oh man I did not eat enough breakfast for this" kind of day. My boss is in America again for a bit so were back to the flying solo. I feel much better about it this go around but it still makes for a more intense week.
Monday started off with the children trapping a giant (bigger than my hand) tarantula and chasing me with it. After several attempts at acting unafraid I lost it. I barricaded myself in the office and watched them put it up against the glass door. My productivity only declined from there. I called my construction friend to come over and find out where the spider was but he couldn't find it and had "quit being such a girl" to offer as his brilliant words of wisdom. I eventually left my office for lunch, only to find a crab bigger than my laptop (no exaggeration) under my desk. Other than the fishy smell, SO glad it was just a crab. Those extra 2 legs make a world of a difference.
30 minutes later I am on my way to Port-au-Prince with the same friend I asked to rescue me from the spider. A work injury is taking our day on a detour to the hospital. Halfway there we pull over to meet our American nurse so she can put his IV in. If you know me, you know this almost beats out the tarantula and as I attempt to be the brave one, I begin to get light headed. We both made it. I sang soft kitty and he ate a sucker, in the manliest and most bravest way of course.
From 3-6 we waited at the hospital. He had a few tests and ultimately was more concerned that his plans of watching Elf tonight were being ruined. I promised to act it out the entire 2 hour car ride home but I know its not the same thing.
In case you are worried, he is quite all right. He will go back in the morning for a follow up. in the meantime, I am P double O pooped. Monday has given me more than I bargained for and all I can say is that I hope tomorrow has less creepy crawlies, zero injuries and lots of Christmas cheer.
Monday started off with the children trapping a giant (bigger than my hand) tarantula and chasing me with it. After several attempts at acting unafraid I lost it. I barricaded myself in the office and watched them put it up against the glass door. My productivity only declined from there. I called my construction friend to come over and find out where the spider was but he couldn't find it and had "quit being such a girl" to offer as his brilliant words of wisdom. I eventually left my office for lunch, only to find a crab bigger than my laptop (no exaggeration) under my desk. Other than the fishy smell, SO glad it was just a crab. Those extra 2 legs make a world of a difference.
30 minutes later I am on my way to Port-au-Prince with the same friend I asked to rescue me from the spider. A work injury is taking our day on a detour to the hospital. Halfway there we pull over to meet our American nurse so she can put his IV in. If you know me, you know this almost beats out the tarantula and as I attempt to be the brave one, I begin to get light headed. We both made it. I sang soft kitty and he ate a sucker, in the manliest and most bravest way of course.
From 3-6 we waited at the hospital. He had a few tests and ultimately was more concerned that his plans of watching Elf tonight were being ruined. I promised to act it out the entire 2 hour car ride home but I know its not the same thing.
In case you are worried, he is quite all right. He will go back in the morning for a follow up. in the meantime, I am P double O pooped. Monday has given me more than I bargained for and all I can say is that I hope tomorrow has less creepy crawlies, zero injuries and lots of Christmas cheer.
Thursday, June 13, 2013
just some happenings
Good Morning everyone. It is 11:08 am on a Thursday and I am currently sitting in my bed drinking coffee. Its not a vacation day here but because my boss is great I have been given a mandatory day of rest. So happy rest day to me. That should clue you in a little bit as to why its been a while since I have posted. I feel like I say this every blog post but its been hard lately. I will get this part out of the way and just say that I have been struggling and could definitely use your prayers and encouragement. I am so excited about staying an extra month and could not imagine if I actually was leaving on June 21st as planned but I am still feeling a bit burned out. And by a bit I mean a lot. Let's just be real because that is important, especially when you're asking for prayer. I am tired, its really hot which makes all situations feel a bit more dramatic than they might be, I am feeling far from the Lord, even though I know He is nearer than I could imagine, and I ran out of snacks so I'm hangry (hunger leads to anger, hungry + angry= hangry). So that's that. I appreciate your prayers and support. I know this is all one giant process, that Jesus has not left me, that He is active in my day to day life, my heart and my development and growth. I also know that how I feel will not last forever and is key to me becoming more like Him, more pruned and therefore more effective for His kingdom, which ultimately I want all of those things.
Enough of that, lots going on here. We had the wedding 2 weekends ago. I don't really want to talk about that, too overwhelming to relive but I will say, that regardless of who I marry, I love American weddings. This thing was unreal, no offense to Haiti. The ceremony started an hour late which is apparently earlier than expected. (My wedding will start on time, we will lock the doors and you will no be allowed in...) But seriously, it gets better. Not only are there about 5 million people that walk down the aisle but they take a year and a half as they slow dance their way down together. While this is happening, every guest has popped up with their phone or other gadget and is standing in front of the people walking down the aisle trying to film their own video. Its insane. You cant see anything. there are more people in the aisle than there are in chairs. Two hours later, the short ceremony has ended and the reception begins which I really don't want to talk about. But its over so that's that. The picture below is of the reception site on the beach.
Last Friday was National Donut Day in America, so in honor of donuts, America and the fatty living inside me, we made donuts and they were heaven.
My new favorite past time thanks to my Canadian friends is now hockey. And let me toot my own horn for a second, I am awesome at it. Which if you know me, coordination, athletic activities such as moving, etc. are not really my forte. But I think I've found my nitch. Only problem, I tend to get quite aggressive which leads to injuries like falling over the wall- twice- having someone land on top of me and with my profound abilities to bruise like a peach have consistently maintained 2 black and blue legs for 3 weeks now. The children are starting to get concerned lol.
I have been on a few excursions lately. The weekend of the wedding we went to a beach nearby called Taino beach. Its nice, good for snorkeling, saw a few cool fish but I'm still terrified of sharks so I didn't make it out too far. Last weekend we went to Croix de Bouquet, a town near Port-au-Prince. Here the livelihood is iron making so its tons of little shops lined up filled with iron pieces, like bowls, wall art, etc. I bought a bowl, the word Joy, and a tree thing. After that we went to the Sugar Cane Factory and had lunch. It is an absolutely beautiful place- had delicious shrimp that I had been craving for weeks- got sick off said shrimp and will now not be eating shrimp for quite a while.
Taino Beach
<--- the shrimp
I think that's all I can think of to say for now. To sum up, I feel a billion different things a day so thank God that He is in charge of my life, is never changing, has my days pre-arranged, and loves me more than I can fathom.
OH and.....so this week was Greta Van Susteren's birthday (you know Greta Home and Academy, that Greta) so the kids and I made a few things for her...you can check them out on her Fox News blog....
1. http://gretawire.foxnewsinsider.com/video/wow-check-out-this-awesome-birthday-present-from-the-children-in-haiti/
2. http://gretawire.foxnewsinsider.com/video/more-birthday-fun-thanks-to-the-children-at-greta-home-academy/
3. http://gretawire.foxnewsinsider.com/video/i-dont-think-anyone-has-ever-ever-ever-gotten-as-great-a-birthday-present-as-this-video-i-so-love-these-kids/
The first is a giant banner we made with all the kids handprints on there. It was so fun painting their hands.
The second video is a card I bought (not made, sorry Greta) and wrote for her from the kids. The third is a video I made on my handy dandy phone...and of course its featuring my little one at the end, be still my heart.
So that's my life in a nutshell. Tomorrow is our kindergarten graduation which will be precious and our Samaritans Purse video crew is here this week so I will be posting a link to their videos and pictures soon!
Happy Thursday!
Enough of that, lots going on here. We had the wedding 2 weekends ago. I don't really want to talk about that, too overwhelming to relive but I will say, that regardless of who I marry, I love American weddings. This thing was unreal, no offense to Haiti. The ceremony started an hour late which is apparently earlier than expected. (My wedding will start on time, we will lock the doors and you will no be allowed in...) But seriously, it gets better. Not only are there about 5 million people that walk down the aisle but they take a year and a half as they slow dance their way down together. While this is happening, every guest has popped up with their phone or other gadget and is standing in front of the people walking down the aisle trying to film their own video. Its insane. You cant see anything. there are more people in the aisle than there are in chairs. Two hours later, the short ceremony has ended and the reception begins which I really don't want to talk about. But its over so that's that. The picture below is of the reception site on the beach.
(All the brides walking in. It was a mass wedding, 3 couples at one time.)
Last Friday was National Donut Day in America, so in honor of donuts, America and the fatty living inside me, we made donuts and they were heaven.
My new favorite past time thanks to my Canadian friends is now hockey. And let me toot my own horn for a second, I am awesome at it. Which if you know me, coordination, athletic activities such as moving, etc. are not really my forte. But I think I've found my nitch. Only problem, I tend to get quite aggressive which leads to injuries like falling over the wall- twice- having someone land on top of me and with my profound abilities to bruise like a peach have consistently maintained 2 black and blue legs for 3 weeks now. The children are starting to get concerned lol.
I have been on a few excursions lately. The weekend of the wedding we went to a beach nearby called Taino beach. Its nice, good for snorkeling, saw a few cool fish but I'm still terrified of sharks so I didn't make it out too far. Last weekend we went to Croix de Bouquet, a town near Port-au-Prince. Here the livelihood is iron making so its tons of little shops lined up filled with iron pieces, like bowls, wall art, etc. I bought a bowl, the word Joy, and a tree thing. After that we went to the Sugar Cane Factory and had lunch. It is an absolutely beautiful place- had delicious shrimp that I had been craving for weeks- got sick off said shrimp and will now not be eating shrimp for quite a while.
Taino Beach
<--- the shrimp
(my dear Canadian friends)
The children. Lets talk about them since they are why I am here. um I love them. I just love them. They drive me crazy, are the reason I pull my hair out most days, pee on me, don't even get me started on nap time which we just instituted and has become my project (I mean seriously, don't you want to sleep, aren't you tired? I say to them, Because mama Jessica is tired and she wants to sleep so shut your eyes and go to bed) But in the same breathe I want to squeeze them, eat them, hug them forever and keep them all. We had a mothers day celebration at the end of May because that's when it is celebrated in Haiti. The kids had gotten gifts for their mamas and would come up front and say the mom they wanted to give their gift to and the mom would come up and get the gift. I was shocked when I heard my name, my heart LITERALLY melted. I will forever treasure my weird tear shaped vase filled with water and a fake flower. Oh these kids. I know I'm not a mom, by any means, so if you are a mom or have pushed a baby out of your body and know that agony, I'm not trying to take away any of those moments for you but I think I am getting a glimpse of what its like. I wake up for these kids, go to bed exhausted because of them yet am ready to do it the next day because I cant wait to see them. I would lose my life for them, cant understand why they eat chalk and make the choices they do, let them braid my hair, some days don't want to wake up to see them, but every day love them more. Its chaos and its the best thing that's ever happened to me. Sigh. I miss them today. I mean I am enjoying the quiet and the not feeling like I'm in a fish bowl (exhibit A below) but I miss them.
(Sorry they are all sideways! I am not good with the technology stuff)
I think that's all I can think of to say for now. To sum up, I feel a billion different things a day so thank God that He is in charge of my life, is never changing, has my days pre-arranged, and loves me more than I can fathom.
OH and.....so this week was Greta Van Susteren's birthday (you know Greta Home and Academy, that Greta) so the kids and I made a few things for her...you can check them out on her Fox News blog....
1. http://gretawire.foxnewsinsider.com/video/wow-check-out-this-awesome-birthday-present-from-the-children-in-haiti/
2. http://gretawire.foxnewsinsider.com/video/more-birthday-fun-thanks-to-the-children-at-greta-home-academy/
3. http://gretawire.foxnewsinsider.com/video/i-dont-think-anyone-has-ever-ever-ever-gotten-as-great-a-birthday-present-as-this-video-i-so-love-these-kids/
The first is a giant banner we made with all the kids handprints on there. It was so fun painting their hands.
The second video is a card I bought (not made, sorry Greta) and wrote for her from the kids. The third is a video I made on my handy dandy phone...and of course its featuring my little one at the end, be still my heart.
So that's my life in a nutshell. Tomorrow is our kindergarten graduation which will be precious and our Samaritans Purse video crew is here this week so I will be posting a link to their videos and pictures soon!
Happy Thursday!
Friday, May 24, 2013
weekly highlights
This past weeks highlights:
1. Last Thursday I stayed the night at Greta...that was quite the experience. Lots of sweet things to say about it and I also would like to add that I will never take for granted my alone adult time. Seeing the kids for a full 24+ hour day was a lot to take in but with it came bedtime stories, tucking them in and seeing their faces first thing when I awoke. What I did not like was waking up when they woke up (5 am)....you win some, you lose some.
2. Friday I came back to base to find a monstrous water slide assembled and ready to be tested. I mean, this thing could make it into Carowinds. Its legit. I was not too thrilled about the extension ladder I had to climb to get into it but nevertheless I was happy to test the slide for safety and levels of fun. This was one of the most fun things I have done in quite some time, top part slide, bottom part slip n slide...win win. We played on that for a good part of the day, got soaking wet and then did it again the next day with the Greta kids. We had them over to base for beach day. Watching the little kids slide probably for the first time on a water slide was adorable. I have no pictures I am sorry to say. I wanted to make sure I was with the kids Saturday and not just trying to capture the moments, ya know? But it was really fun and just picture sweet Dave, sitting on the beach, belly out, in his teeny swimsuit, purple sunglasses upside down, holding his Barbie. Oh I could have gobbled him up. We had loads of fun playing in the sand and in the slip n slide. He even washed my hair for me with the soapy water. He's so thoughtful.
3. Sunday in Haiti is Mother's Day. Yesterday they all made cards in school for their mothers and bless my heart, 3 of them chose me to give theirs too. I am not going to get into the mooshy gooshy of that but it meant a lot to me, we'll leave it at that.
4. At some point this week, though I have lost track of my days, I got poop on my pants, this time a child's....Dave....that was fun.
5. This morning at 5 am I was awakened by a feeling on my leg. I smacked it and as I suspected felt something there. I turned the lights on, threw off the covers and low and behold, there was a scorpion in between my legs. From there followed a series of being paralyzed from shock, speaking in tongues, asking jesus ever so calmly why this was in my bed, trying to kill it with my shoe and crying because I was so tired. 15 minutes later it was dead and I was not getting back in my bed. I definitely got an earlier than desired start to my day and have already checked my sheets twice for one tonight.
6. Today was All Staff Fun Day at base so all our national and expat employees, around 200 people had the day off for fun. Myself and the Deputy Country Director were in charge of planning what is basically an adult field day. This went on all day and was just the most fun. Both of us, along with the Country Director had super soakers that we could shoot people with throughout the day. I had a feeling this would backfire.....so during the water balloon toss, Francois, one of our rubble guys...said he had a special game. He drew names "randomly" from a hat for people to sit in a circle. Ironically, our DCD, CD and I were chosen. As our chairs were being tied together I began to catch on. We were attacked. All our were staff armed with water balloons for about a 5 minute attack. All we could do was duck and cover. From then on it was a full out water war as people grabbed buckets of water and went crazy. I was soaked but definitely managed to return the favor to Francois.
7. I hate mosquitoes and would like for everyone to join me in praying against them and agreeing in faith that they will stop eating me. I am going to turn into one giant swollen bite. I hate them.
8. Last but not least......drum roll......you know how my leave date for Haiti is June 21st so like less than a month? Well, this week I got extended! I will be staying until the end of July now. I am so thankful to have more time here and am excited about whatever it is Jesus is doing- because I know its awesome, scorpions and poop included.
That is my crazy week. This coming Saturday we have a mass wedding (3 couples at one time) happening at base for some of our employees that yours truly is in charge of. I am sure I will have lots to say about that when everything is finished. That is all. I am going to bed. Good Night!
1. Last Thursday I stayed the night at Greta...that was quite the experience. Lots of sweet things to say about it and I also would like to add that I will never take for granted my alone adult time. Seeing the kids for a full 24+ hour day was a lot to take in but with it came bedtime stories, tucking them in and seeing their faces first thing when I awoke. What I did not like was waking up when they woke up (5 am)....you win some, you lose some.
2. Friday I came back to base to find a monstrous water slide assembled and ready to be tested. I mean, this thing could make it into Carowinds. Its legit. I was not too thrilled about the extension ladder I had to climb to get into it but nevertheless I was happy to test the slide for safety and levels of fun. This was one of the most fun things I have done in quite some time, top part slide, bottom part slip n slide...win win. We played on that for a good part of the day, got soaking wet and then did it again the next day with the Greta kids. We had them over to base for beach day. Watching the little kids slide probably for the first time on a water slide was adorable. I have no pictures I am sorry to say. I wanted to make sure I was with the kids Saturday and not just trying to capture the moments, ya know? But it was really fun and just picture sweet Dave, sitting on the beach, belly out, in his teeny swimsuit, purple sunglasses upside down, holding his Barbie. Oh I could have gobbled him up. We had loads of fun playing in the sand and in the slip n slide. He even washed my hair for me with the soapy water. He's so thoughtful.
3. Sunday in Haiti is Mother's Day. Yesterday they all made cards in school for their mothers and bless my heart, 3 of them chose me to give theirs too. I am not going to get into the mooshy gooshy of that but it meant a lot to me, we'll leave it at that.
4. At some point this week, though I have lost track of my days, I got poop on my pants, this time a child's....Dave....that was fun.
5. This morning at 5 am I was awakened by a feeling on my leg. I smacked it and as I suspected felt something there. I turned the lights on, threw off the covers and low and behold, there was a scorpion in between my legs. From there followed a series of being paralyzed from shock, speaking in tongues, asking jesus ever so calmly why this was in my bed, trying to kill it with my shoe and crying because I was so tired. 15 minutes later it was dead and I was not getting back in my bed. I definitely got an earlier than desired start to my day and have already checked my sheets twice for one tonight.
6. Today was All Staff Fun Day at base so all our national and expat employees, around 200 people had the day off for fun. Myself and the Deputy Country Director were in charge of planning what is basically an adult field day. This went on all day and was just the most fun. Both of us, along with the Country Director had super soakers that we could shoot people with throughout the day. I had a feeling this would backfire.....so during the water balloon toss, Francois, one of our rubble guys...said he had a special game. He drew names "randomly" from a hat for people to sit in a circle. Ironically, our DCD, CD and I were chosen. As our chairs were being tied together I began to catch on. We were attacked. All our were staff armed with water balloons for about a 5 minute attack. All we could do was duck and cover. From then on it was a full out water war as people grabbed buckets of water and went crazy. I was soaked but definitely managed to return the favor to Francois.
7. I hate mosquitoes and would like for everyone to join me in praying against them and agreeing in faith that they will stop eating me. I am going to turn into one giant swollen bite. I hate them.
8. Last but not least......drum roll......you know how my leave date for Haiti is June 21st so like less than a month? Well, this week I got extended! I will be staying until the end of July now. I am so thankful to have more time here and am excited about whatever it is Jesus is doing- because I know its awesome, scorpions and poop included.
That is my crazy week. This coming Saturday we have a mass wedding (3 couples at one time) happening at base for some of our employees that yours truly is in charge of. I am sure I will have lots to say about that when everything is finished. That is all. I am going to bed. Good Night!
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
mama said thered be days like this...
I think I need to change my blog title. Instead of Lafwa- which means faith in creole, I think it should be "you'll never believe what happened today" After all, most of my days feel like that. I come home and tell my fellow base mates, who are questioning the various things they see on my pants, what strange things that I just cant explain happened that day at Greta.
I will re-tell my day to you like I did to my friends at the dinner table tonight over, you guessed it, rice. :) It might sound dramatic, because that is how I feel about it, but I assure you its all true. I just can't make this stuff up.
It started off normal, walked to the breakfast area around 7 am, where I spilled coffee creamer on my pants. I went and changed only to spill coffee on my second pair of pants 10 minutes later during devotions. I decided to stay in those pants, knowing that I usually dirty them at work and I just refuse to create more laundry for myself.
Flash forward 5 hours later. Its almost 12:30- lunch time- and my boss has left for the bank. Its just me myself and I while the kids are still in school and I have the office alone. I turn up my music and think I am finally going to get this work done Ive been needing to check off. Slowly but surely my little kindergarten bumpkins start to trickle in- they got out of school early today. I kiss them, squeeze them and send them to the lunch tables, but as usual, a few refuse to leave. (I'm convinced this disobedience is simply because they just love me so much they want to stay and not listen to anything I say). I manage to get 1 of 3 out the door and close it behind me to ensure no other kids come in. I get the last 2 kids, take them to the door and...to my surprise... it wont open. I thought maybe one of the kids was holding it closed but nope, no one there. A few minutes later I concede that I am indeed locked in my office with 2 boys under the age of 7. Oh me oh my. The all glass door quickly gives away my predicament as many of the kids gather to watch.
In the meantime, everyone decided to walk by, ask me why I was stuck in the office, insist they were the 16 year old boy that could free this white damsel in distress, offer to slide me water under the door (no idea how that could have worked out), cry because they thought I was stuck in there forever (Dave) or just laugh at the blan that cant open the door. (Blan means white and is also often confused as my name.)
Long story short I called our construction guys over and an hour and a half later they cut the door handle off and we were freed. It was quite the ordeal. I spent the time trying to keep their little hands off of everything, entertain them, ration out my last granola bar between the 3 of us, and aid the construction workers in my release. I never again want my freedom to depend on my tool skill set. I had no clue what I was doing despite my 4 hour ordeal from Friday where I locked myself out of my house and had to break in. Potato, potato the situations felt the same and the moral of the story is I now have a reputation of getting locked in and out of things. Dont worry, we all survived, some of us barely. I was doing ok until one of the boys farted.....
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Twenty minutes after my freedom, my pants prediction came to pass. I left work with blood that wasnt mine on my khakis. Dont freak out. It was only a nice cut on the toe. Nothing a giraffe band-aid and a few kisses couldnt fix. But still. My pants.
I think thats about it for the day. I did not cross anything off my to-do list but that is ok, there is always tomorrow for that. Or maybe Thursday but not Friday because we have the day off. Happy Flag Day. :) Oh, AND, silver lining, besides Jesus and cute babies that wear me out and test my patience, I got a 12 pack of diet coke today. Hollaaa!
I hope none of this sounds like complaining. I wouldnt choose anywhere else to be in the world, except maybe when I was locked in my office. I still wake up every morning glad this is what Jesus chose for me. Some days are just days and you gotta love the ones that give you the best blogging material. So enjoy my crazy day, I am going to sleep! Here is to a better tomorrow, one with clean pants and doors that stay open.
I will re-tell my day to you like I did to my friends at the dinner table tonight over, you guessed it, rice. :) It might sound dramatic, because that is how I feel about it, but I assure you its all true. I just can't make this stuff up.
It started off normal, walked to the breakfast area around 7 am, where I spilled coffee creamer on my pants. I went and changed only to spill coffee on my second pair of pants 10 minutes later during devotions. I decided to stay in those pants, knowing that I usually dirty them at work and I just refuse to create more laundry for myself.
Flash forward 5 hours later. Its almost 12:30- lunch time- and my boss has left for the bank. Its just me myself and I while the kids are still in school and I have the office alone. I turn up my music and think I am finally going to get this work done Ive been needing to check off. Slowly but surely my little kindergarten bumpkins start to trickle in- they got out of school early today. I kiss them, squeeze them and send them to the lunch tables, but as usual, a few refuse to leave. (I'm convinced this disobedience is simply because they just love me so much they want to stay and not listen to anything I say). I manage to get 1 of 3 out the door and close it behind me to ensure no other kids come in. I get the last 2 kids, take them to the door and...to my surprise... it wont open. I thought maybe one of the kids was holding it closed but nope, no one there. A few minutes later I concede that I am indeed locked in my office with 2 boys under the age of 7. Oh me oh my. The all glass door quickly gives away my predicament as many of the kids gather to watch.
(Anderson and Fritz. These are their "sad" faces once we realized we were stuck.)
In the meantime, everyone decided to walk by, ask me why I was stuck in the office, insist they were the 16 year old boy that could free this white damsel in distress, offer to slide me water under the door (no idea how that could have worked out), cry because they thought I was stuck in there forever (Dave) or just laugh at the blan that cant open the door. (Blan means white and is also often confused as my name.)
Long story short I called our construction guys over and an hour and a half later they cut the door handle off and we were freed. It was quite the ordeal. I spent the time trying to keep their little hands off of everything, entertain them, ration out my last granola bar between the 3 of us, and aid the construction workers in my release. I never again want my freedom to depend on my tool skill set. I had no clue what I was doing despite my 4 hour ordeal from Friday where I locked myself out of my house and had to break in. Potato, potato the situations felt the same and the moral of the story is I now have a reputation of getting locked in and out of things. Dont worry, we all survived, some of us barely. I was doing ok until one of the boys farted.....
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(Our wonderful construction men trying to get us out.)
Twenty minutes after my freedom, my pants prediction came to pass. I left work with blood that wasnt mine on my khakis. Dont freak out. It was only a nice cut on the toe. Nothing a giraffe band-aid and a few kisses couldnt fix. But still. My pants.
I think thats about it for the day. I did not cross anything off my to-do list but that is ok, there is always tomorrow for that. Or maybe Thursday but not Friday because we have the day off. Happy Flag Day. :) Oh, AND, silver lining, besides Jesus and cute babies that wear me out and test my patience, I got a 12 pack of diet coke today. Hollaaa!
I hope none of this sounds like complaining. I wouldnt choose anywhere else to be in the world, except maybe when I was locked in my office. I still wake up every morning glad this is what Jesus chose for me. Some days are just days and you gotta love the ones that give you the best blogging material. So enjoy my crazy day, I am going to sleep! Here is to a better tomorrow, one with clean pants and doors that stay open.
Thursday, May 9, 2013
home sweet home
Well, in case you didnt notice, I am back in Haiti. After 10 wonderful days in the States with family and friends I have made my way back "home". It definitely feels bittersweet and I imagine life usually feels that way when you go from one great thing to another. I will say this sweet little face below made the switch a whole lot easier. Good grief. I encourage you next time you are feeling grumpy, complaining, discontent or just normal to find this photo and look at that boy. I love my Dave.
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Besides eating all my favorite foods and taking long hot showers, my time at home was extremely refreshing. I could go on and on about the amazing family and friends I am blessed to have. It makes things easier, possible and enjoyable when you have a support system behind you, praying, encouraging, bearing your burdens and joys. With that said I am ready to get back in it. I think I have gained a lot of perspective just by being removed for a few days and can see things with a bit more clarity and grace. I did forget however 1. how hot it is here 2. how many mosquitoes there are and 3. how much I have come to hate rice. All those things aside and my dire need for diet coke today, I wouldnt trade these babies, this experience, this calling for all the diet coke and mellow mushroom in the world.
Pray for me today as I switched out my bottle of perfume with a can of deet. Regardless of how much longer I am here or what all I do, I know each lesson, each child, each day is just covered in purpose and grace. And I will come back and read that sentence on the day when I am so hungry, so tired, so hot and so frustrated. Because I know those moments will come, I have had PLENTY.
So, thats it for now. I am still recovering from travels yesterday getting back into rhythm so I am going to bed. Good Night!
Sunday, April 21, 2013
6 days til USA
I never know what to say for my first sentence of a post. So I am just going to say that and avoid it all together.
This week was crazy crazy. My boss came back from the States, (yay) which meant less chaos at work and no bungalow. Luckily, my sweet friend Rebekah left for R&R this morning so here I am again living it up in a bungalow. I have become a bungalow hopper.
Last week was very challenging. I am still going through some things that the Lord is having me sort out here. I would like to use my get out of jail free card on some of them but I know I'll just end up right back here again at some point so its important to stay put and let it all happen. It sucks a lot but process, growth, stretching your capacity and therefore becoming more intimate with the Lord is all worth it.
Enough of that. Here are some highlights of this week in random order.
1. The last night of my bungalow life, so Tuesday night, I went to sleep as usual. Sometimes, a lot of times, I have dreams where there is a spider or some other creature on me, near me, and I wake up in a frenzy only to realize theres actually nothing there. This night seemed to be no different as I woke up from feeling something on my neck. I turned on the light, smacked my neck and decided nothing was there, it must have been a dream. Thats when I saw it. I giant cockroach and by giant Im going to say the length of my ring finger and the width of my thumb. You cant see my hands but rest assured, it was big. I smacked it down from the bed which is when I lost it. I searched for 15 minutes, decided I wasnt afraid and was going back to bed because it was 1 am, then got back up when I remembered the story of the woman who had a roach lay eggs in her brain. Not happening. I said a prayer, found the roach, murdered it and slept with the light on. Jesus and I talked the next morning about adding that to the list of things I need protection from and or that arent allowed to be on me at night. We should be good from here on out.
2. Yesterday was adventure in Port-au-Prince day. We left base around 8 am arrived around 10. We started at a place called the Apparent Project. Its a store run by Americans that teaches women livelihoods like jewelry making etc and then sells the products and gives them a high percentage of the cost. At least thats the gist I got. I got some nifty giftys there and then headed to lunch at a beautiful restaurant called the Latin Quarter. It was nicer than most restaurants I eat at in the States. We had a delicious and expensive lunch there and then went to a bakery in downtown. Heaven. See exhibit A below. Then, the place Ive been missing more than my own bed, the grocery store. Holy cow. I was acting like a child, every aisle, every turn offered me food I had not seen in 3 months. I bought orange peppers, a block of brie cheese, apples, and irish cream coffee creamer. I intend on sharing with no one.
After a full day there we came back and held our base dance party. I was asked to plan it and we invited people from other NGO's in the area. It was so much fun and let me tell you so needed. I must be a completely different person here in Haiti because for the first time I was told by someone in a serious manner, not even joking because I asked them and they said no, that I was a good dancer. I know what youre thinking, but keep the laughs to yourself. I think Ive made a breakthrough here. I cant keep a straight face as I type this. I dont know what she was thinking and I instantly told her that.
3. Can you say USA in 6 days?
I am so ready, so excited to see everyone and eat things. I just want to eat things. Pray for this final week, its going to be something else trying to get ready to leave for a bit but I know it can be done!
4. Here is my friend Nicole with a baby goat...because you know, why not?
This week was crazy crazy. My boss came back from the States, (yay) which meant less chaos at work and no bungalow. Luckily, my sweet friend Rebekah left for R&R this morning so here I am again living it up in a bungalow. I have become a bungalow hopper.
Last week was very challenging. I am still going through some things that the Lord is having me sort out here. I would like to use my get out of jail free card on some of them but I know I'll just end up right back here again at some point so its important to stay put and let it all happen. It sucks a lot but process, growth, stretching your capacity and therefore becoming more intimate with the Lord is all worth it.
Enough of that. Here are some highlights of this week in random order.
1. The last night of my bungalow life, so Tuesday night, I went to sleep as usual. Sometimes, a lot of times, I have dreams where there is a spider or some other creature on me, near me, and I wake up in a frenzy only to realize theres actually nothing there. This night seemed to be no different as I woke up from feeling something on my neck. I turned on the light, smacked my neck and decided nothing was there, it must have been a dream. Thats when I saw it. I giant cockroach and by giant Im going to say the length of my ring finger and the width of my thumb. You cant see my hands but rest assured, it was big. I smacked it down from the bed which is when I lost it. I searched for 15 minutes, decided I wasnt afraid and was going back to bed because it was 1 am, then got back up when I remembered the story of the woman who had a roach lay eggs in her brain. Not happening. I said a prayer, found the roach, murdered it and slept with the light on. Jesus and I talked the next morning about adding that to the list of things I need protection from and or that arent allowed to be on me at night. We should be good from here on out.
2. Yesterday was adventure in Port-au-Prince day. We left base around 8 am arrived around 10. We started at a place called the Apparent Project. Its a store run by Americans that teaches women livelihoods like jewelry making etc and then sells the products and gives them a high percentage of the cost. At least thats the gist I got. I got some nifty giftys there and then headed to lunch at a beautiful restaurant called the Latin Quarter. It was nicer than most restaurants I eat at in the States. We had a delicious and expensive lunch there and then went to a bakery in downtown. Heaven. See exhibit A below. Then, the place Ive been missing more than my own bed, the grocery store. Holy cow. I was acting like a child, every aisle, every turn offered me food I had not seen in 3 months. I bought orange peppers, a block of brie cheese, apples, and irish cream coffee creamer. I intend on sharing with no one.
Here is Rebekah- girl whose bungalow I am in. She is sitting with Mark,
not to be confused with Jesus, though many Haitians yesterday did. #longhairdontcare
Here is me Nicole and Robert at the Apparent Project.
This is what I had for lunch yesterday. So good.
Everyone at the Latin Quarter.
Chocolate cheesecake from the bakery.
Mission accomplished. I have successfully eaten a doughnut
in every country Ive been to. Krispy Kreme still reigns supreme.
3. Can you say USA in 6 days?
I am so ready, so excited to see everyone and eat things. I just want to eat things. Pray for this final week, its going to be something else trying to get ready to leave for a bit but I know it can be done!
4. Here is my friend Nicole with a baby goat...because you know, why not?
Thursday, April 11, 2013
my day in pictures 2
Today was the first truly good, wonderful day I have had in a long time. Since a lot of my posts have consisted of frustrations and/or struggles lately I thought it would be nice to hear about happy things to, the days that make the bad days worth it.
1. Thank you to everyone who responded with sweet messages of encouragment and prayers for the boys on our beach and for me. Especially my mother. You are a gem, thoughtful, encouraging, supportive. You understand the power in unity and numbers. Thank you for being proud of me, for taking my burdens as your own.
2. Today was just great. I even cried happy tears. Instead of telling you about my day I will just show you. This is Jeff and Dave. You remember Dave, my first kiss? Cant get enough of these babies. Just goes to show all you need is a box and youve got a good time.
3. The one and only not so great part of my day- I attempted to make a chocolate peanut butter cake for my friends birthday party tomorrow. As I was icing it, it completely fell apart. Its now cut up in a bowl. Its a bowl of cake. So lame. I dont know if she will buy that it was "supposed" to look like that. I'll let you know how it goes.
Happy friday eve. Everyone have a great day tomorrow! TGIF.
1. Thank you to everyone who responded with sweet messages of encouragment and prayers for the boys on our beach and for me. Especially my mother. You are a gem, thoughtful, encouraging, supportive. You understand the power in unity and numbers. Thank you for being proud of me, for taking my burdens as your own.
2. Today was just great. I even cried happy tears. Instead of telling you about my day I will just show you. This is Jeff and Dave. You remember Dave, my first kiss? Cant get enough of these babies. Just goes to show all you need is a box and youve got a good time.
just posing...
this box is hardly big enough for all of us.
israel choking dave. jeff enjoying israel choking dave.
dave choking jeff and jeff choking dave.
now lets kiss. they love eachother.
"they see me rollin'..."
run dave run!
the box monster is coming!
3. The one and only not so great part of my day- I attempted to make a chocolate peanut butter cake for my friends birthday party tomorrow. As I was icing it, it completely fell apart. Its now cut up in a bowl. Its a bowl of cake. So lame. I dont know if she will buy that it was "supposed" to look like that. I'll let you know how it goes.
Happy friday eve. Everyone have a great day tomorrow! TGIF.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
the beach boys
I came home from work today with every intention of blogging about my day. I was going to sacrifice the hours it takes to post more than 2 pictures, talk about my cute kiddos, relay last night's trauma as my AC broke and I found out this morning that all I had to do was push one button and I could have slept through the night, etc etc. Instead I am writing with a frustrated heart. It is one of those moments when you see a need and you are just at a loss. What you want to do, what you can do and what you should do are 3 different stories and settling for one over another doesnt feel possible.
Our beachfront base is situated right in the middle of a community called L'acul. Long story short, there are a group of boys who spend their day outside our gate on the beach. The guards know all of them, those of us who talk to them know all their names, their ages, everything we can about them. In the beginning I didn't talk to them very much. I didnt speak any creole and they seemed like a bunch of roudy pre-teens who needed something to do. I spend my entire day with kids so I hardly feel like it when I come home. Lately however I have felt a pull to talk to them. The second I get home they see my car pull up and call my name from the gate. Most evenings me and a few others go out there and talk to them, give them mangos, and goof off. Two guys in particular here are really great about spending time with them, teaching them how to fix their bikes and having movie nights on the beach. They all live close by in poor conditions. They wear ratty clothes, are dirty and usually eat because we feed them. I feel torn often because my natural inclination is to give them everything they need, clothes, food and some soap. But sometimes I struggle, wondering if that is the best thing, or how I can go beyond that and share Jesus. Each kid has a different story, different family life. Some are orphans, some are abused, all of them want attention, just want someone to talk to.
Tonight we were out there talking to them and they were all fighting about something ridiculous- just boy stuff. I was holding Joskowa- He is 6, the cutest child I have ever beheld and an orphan. I am watching these older boys influence him, tease him, provoke him, teach him gestures he should never know, force him to be an age he isnt at. I watch them transfer the same behaviors they receive from their parents to him and it makes my heart sick. Everything in me wants to take him home, give him a bath, put him in bed and let him be a kid. I am so frustrated. I dont even know where to start. I hate to generalize but something I have noticed in Haiti is an overall lack of family, lack of the father figure. There isnt this typical nuclear setup that involves 2 parents and a few kids. There are lots of kids, lots of adults and little parenting, little gentleness, a lack of nurture and discipline, education and affection. I am generalizing but its a common theme.
I have no idea where I am going with this. I dont know why I am telling you this or what my point is. I dont know if I should give them shoes or take them to church.( Although here you cant go to church unless youre wearing shoes so the two go hand in hand. ) That was a lot of I dont knows. So here is my list of do knows: 1. I do know Jesus is aware of them. 2. I do know Jesus loves them. 3. I do know that I will be in Haiti, living near them for 3 more months. 4. I do know prayer, the holy spirit and love change things.
If you feel compelled to do so, tonight or whenever, pray for these kids. Pray specifically for the ones I see everyday on the beach and pray for this upcoming generation of children. Pray for a different outcome with them. Pray for their protection, provision and that they would know the love of Jesus. Pray for ways we can show them love, pray for wisdom in knowing when to give what, how to give and who to give to. Pray whatever the Holy Spirit tells you to.
So for now, I am going to trust Jesus has this all figured out. I am so thankful for him.
Our beachfront base is situated right in the middle of a community called L'acul. Long story short, there are a group of boys who spend their day outside our gate on the beach. The guards know all of them, those of us who talk to them know all their names, their ages, everything we can about them. In the beginning I didn't talk to them very much. I didnt speak any creole and they seemed like a bunch of roudy pre-teens who needed something to do. I spend my entire day with kids so I hardly feel like it when I come home. Lately however I have felt a pull to talk to them. The second I get home they see my car pull up and call my name from the gate. Most evenings me and a few others go out there and talk to them, give them mangos, and goof off. Two guys in particular here are really great about spending time with them, teaching them how to fix their bikes and having movie nights on the beach. They all live close by in poor conditions. They wear ratty clothes, are dirty and usually eat because we feed them. I feel torn often because my natural inclination is to give them everything they need, clothes, food and some soap. But sometimes I struggle, wondering if that is the best thing, or how I can go beyond that and share Jesus. Each kid has a different story, different family life. Some are orphans, some are abused, all of them want attention, just want someone to talk to.
Tonight we were out there talking to them and they were all fighting about something ridiculous- just boy stuff. I was holding Joskowa- He is 6, the cutest child I have ever beheld and an orphan. I am watching these older boys influence him, tease him, provoke him, teach him gestures he should never know, force him to be an age he isnt at. I watch them transfer the same behaviors they receive from their parents to him and it makes my heart sick. Everything in me wants to take him home, give him a bath, put him in bed and let him be a kid. I am so frustrated. I dont even know where to start. I hate to generalize but something I have noticed in Haiti is an overall lack of family, lack of the father figure. There isnt this typical nuclear setup that involves 2 parents and a few kids. There are lots of kids, lots of adults and little parenting, little gentleness, a lack of nurture and discipline, education and affection. I am generalizing but its a common theme.
I have no idea where I am going with this. I dont know why I am telling you this or what my point is. I dont know if I should give them shoes or take them to church.( Although here you cant go to church unless youre wearing shoes so the two go hand in hand. ) That was a lot of I dont knows. So here is my list of do knows: 1. I do know Jesus is aware of them. 2. I do know Jesus loves them. 3. I do know that I will be in Haiti, living near them for 3 more months. 4. I do know prayer, the holy spirit and love change things.
If you feel compelled to do so, tonight or whenever, pray for these kids. Pray specifically for the ones I see everyday on the beach and pray for this upcoming generation of children. Pray for a different outcome with them. Pray for their protection, provision and that they would know the love of Jesus. Pray for ways we can show them love, pray for wisdom in knowing when to give what, how to give and who to give to. Pray whatever the Holy Spirit tells you to.
So for now, I am going to trust Jesus has this all figured out. I am so thankful for him.
Monday, April 8, 2013
i am a terrible blogger
Happy monday everyone. We all made it through the first day of the week. Of course I had something to help- and I am currently sitting on my bed eating it- all 2 giant bags worth of sweets from England and some from the states. I have wonderful friends :).
I hardly know where to start because it has been a long time since I have written anything. Maybe I will start with the noise that I keep hearing...its coming from behind the fridge...I'm too scared to get up and look. Im sure its nothing.........I better get up and look now, while my neighbor is still awake so she can save me as needed. Hold on. ------------------ Phew, it seems to be nothing for now.
If youre wondering about the fridge I mentioned, I am currently not in my hut but living it up in the world of indoor plumbing at my bosses bungalow. She is on vacation in the States for 2 weeks and has graciously offered me her home and all the ammenities that come with not having to walk a mile to the bathroom in the middle of the night. While I am enjoying the bungalow I am eager for her to come back. Work everyday without her is challenging but I know its a good chance for me to step up and grow in some areas, learn a lot and see what I am capable of.
Thats pretty much whats different right now; otherwise its the same old same old. Oh, except, we found this cool hang glider kite parachute thing the other day. I have been jumping off things trying to get airborne- so far I have not gotten very far but I am confident I will succeed at some point. I have also been injuring myself a lot lately- unrelated to jumping off things. Last week I sliced my toe open on a door and today I dropped and shattered my bosses toothbrush holder on my foot. That ones a doozy but I will survive.
Oh and, this is fun- today I had my first kiss. His name is Dave, he's 4 and he had cheetos on his lips. This child has been trying for over a week now to lay one on me and finally succeeded. Every time Im holding him he goes in for one and I move my face or kiss him on the cheek instead. Today he outsmarted me, took my first kiss and gave me his cheeto leftovers. This is Dave:
Look at this cutie pie. I mean seriously....I think this is a better first kiss choice than most of my friends made in middle school. Just saying.....
I wish I had something profound to share with you for the day. My revelations have been quite simple lately. In a world like Haiti, it is usually the simple truths that carry the most power, the most strength and create the most change. After I blogged a few weeks ago about struggling, I struggled even more. But God in his pure faithfulness was there. And that was that. He was there. He was personal to me in my struggle. It was Easter weekend and more than ever was the cross real to me. More than ever did I see the weight of what the empty tomb was for me. Easter morning I sat on the beach watching the sunrise with a small group from base. In that moment Jesus was restoring unto me the joy of my salvation, the sweetness of his redemption for my life, and his dedication to my heart. Oh he is good. He is so good to me. I feel like I am meeting him for the first time all over again. I am discovering new things, new wonders about my Father. And I love that its happening here of all places. A place where people go and talk about how dark it is. Well yes, so lets turn the light on! Lets get filled up so we can shine out! ......That is another story for another day.
Anyways, I am doing great. Your emails, care packages, messages all go hand in hand in my success here. You just dont know how some days that one short email was enough to help me get through that moment, overcome that thought. So thank you for supporting me and sending me food. People are starting to catch on here that I LOVE food.
I will try to blog more consistently in the future and I have tons of pictures to post, so those will go up "soon". I will be stateside in 19 days from today and I am thrilled! I cant wait to see all of you and eat things!
I am cream crackered so off to bed I go! Nighty night.
I hardly know where to start because it has been a long time since I have written anything. Maybe I will start with the noise that I keep hearing...its coming from behind the fridge...I'm too scared to get up and look. Im sure its nothing.........I better get up and look now, while my neighbor is still awake so she can save me as needed. Hold on. ------------------ Phew, it seems to be nothing for now.
If youre wondering about the fridge I mentioned, I am currently not in my hut but living it up in the world of indoor plumbing at my bosses bungalow. She is on vacation in the States for 2 weeks and has graciously offered me her home and all the ammenities that come with not having to walk a mile to the bathroom in the middle of the night. While I am enjoying the bungalow I am eager for her to come back. Work everyday without her is challenging but I know its a good chance for me to step up and grow in some areas, learn a lot and see what I am capable of.
Thats pretty much whats different right now; otherwise its the same old same old. Oh, except, we found this cool hang glider kite parachute thing the other day. I have been jumping off things trying to get airborne- so far I have not gotten very far but I am confident I will succeed at some point. I have also been injuring myself a lot lately- unrelated to jumping off things. Last week I sliced my toe open on a door and today I dropped and shattered my bosses toothbrush holder on my foot. That ones a doozy but I will survive.
Oh and, this is fun- today I had my first kiss. His name is Dave, he's 4 and he had cheetos on his lips. This child has been trying for over a week now to lay one on me and finally succeeded. Every time Im holding him he goes in for one and I move my face or kiss him on the cheek instead. Today he outsmarted me, took my first kiss and gave me his cheeto leftovers. This is Dave:
Look at this cutie pie. I mean seriously....I think this is a better first kiss choice than most of my friends made in middle school. Just saying.....
I wish I had something profound to share with you for the day. My revelations have been quite simple lately. In a world like Haiti, it is usually the simple truths that carry the most power, the most strength and create the most change. After I blogged a few weeks ago about struggling, I struggled even more. But God in his pure faithfulness was there. And that was that. He was there. He was personal to me in my struggle. It was Easter weekend and more than ever was the cross real to me. More than ever did I see the weight of what the empty tomb was for me. Easter morning I sat on the beach watching the sunrise with a small group from base. In that moment Jesus was restoring unto me the joy of my salvation, the sweetness of his redemption for my life, and his dedication to my heart. Oh he is good. He is so good to me. I feel like I am meeting him for the first time all over again. I am discovering new things, new wonders about my Father. And I love that its happening here of all places. A place where people go and talk about how dark it is. Well yes, so lets turn the light on! Lets get filled up so we can shine out! ......That is another story for another day.
Anyways, I am doing great. Your emails, care packages, messages all go hand in hand in my success here. You just dont know how some days that one short email was enough to help me get through that moment, overcome that thought. So thank you for supporting me and sending me food. People are starting to catch on here that I LOVE food.
I will try to blog more consistently in the future and I have tons of pictures to post, so those will go up "soon". I will be stateside in 19 days from today and I am thrilled! I cant wait to see all of you and eat things!
I am cream crackered so off to bed I go! Nighty night.
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