Friday, July 25, 2014
And Welcome to 2014
I am pretty sure this is far more out of delaying my paper than anyone reading this, but I started something and I promised it would not be consistent. I guess this is where the time comes for me to state that 2.5 years later from my last post I am literally in a totally different place (also I sure hope my writing skills have improved exponentially). I am anticipating the August fifth flight back to NYC to start my (hopefully) final two semesters of my Masters Degree. I have been blessed to watch God move in my life since the very first moment I stepped into Korean church. This is something that is now such a big part of my heart that I honestly could not imagine being in another type of ministry. Its pretty incredible to love people in the capacity I have been able to over the past three and half years. God has proven himself to be continuously faithful. There are always moments in life where we need to do like the Israelites and Joshua and place a memorial of stones, a stake in the ground, some form of marker that this is something we can never forget. I have had many things happen in my life over the past three and a half years that point me back to God and all that he has done in my life. What I have witnessed him do across the globe and in my own life reminds me he is sovereign. God has been good. To write, reflect, or take photos, are an attempt to make moments last... in my life, I want to do more than that with some very significant moments, I want to make a stake in the ground that I can go back to. For those moments are reminders when the times get dark and troubling, when God seems far and silent, I will look back and see what he has done, so I can trust what he has promised me. That he is an ever present help and that those he calls he equips. One truth that has been wrecking my heart again and again is the fact that God chose me. I have failed him so many times, yet he still chose me. He still called me into his Kingdom work and although I am not sure how the next few years will come to be, this I do know, God is good and worthy of praise. Where ever I may end up, I pray it is simple response of my love for God revealed in obedience and trust of the God who calls nations to himself.
Below in a picture of the gantry. Its a place I love to go, I can see the city lights, hear the ocean against the rocks, and for a moment feel like it is just me and God in NYC. This was the place, the night before heading home to Canada for two months, where I placed a stake in the ground. It was a moment that although a fog had set in the city, there was an incredible clarity in my heart and spirit, I chose there once again that my life will be set apart for God and his kingdom purposes. A moment where I declared that I would walk in light of the cross for the rest of my days. I would trust that God who called would open up the doors necessary for my return to NYC and that I would continue to look for his hand in my life no matter where I may be.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
NYC 2011
Boxing Day - 2 am came way too early - I got up from an hour nap, showered blow dried my hair and got my face on - I had to pick up one of the kids at 245 so I would be at the airport with coffee in hand before the rest showed up. Luckily - the girl I picked up is fabulous and didnt mind the sheer mess I felt as I awaited what border guard we would be "blessed" with. The kids came on time luckily and we got ready to check in - I am always amazed at what people look like in airports especially when they land (once upon a time a friend and I came to the airport to escape school assignments and simply watched people come home to edmonton - you could tell where they were coming from and lets just say not many people look refreshed from a flight from vegas). My goal this trip was to look fabulous at all times in the airport (this would prove to be harder than I thought). Anyways it took forever to get everyone checked in and then to say good bye to parents and then wait for customs. Luckily my kids are for the most part fantastic but the guard we got to cross into usa soil wasnt so chipper. He started off mean until I told my kids to shh and then he became my friend. He had lots of questions for me because I am white and the seven with me were all korean - which led as always to what do I do - and then the age comment - followed by questions for the kids and comments to me about my position and my age - we finally got through and in the back of my head I began to wonder at the miracle of my position at my age in the place I am. It has truly been a blessing to be where I am. Not easy - no that is not the word to describe it - perhaps instead joyful and growing?! yeah something like that.
Anyways we went to New York and after a bit of time got into the church we would be staying in - it was gorgeous - not one of those massive churches that put millions of dollars into decor but rather it was like I walked into my grandparents house. It was so lovely. We went to Time Square and had a blast experiencing manhattan at night. The next morning came way too fast where we carpooled with the nyc church up to Rochester for the GKYM conference. The church blessed us and we drove up in a 15 passenger van and the 7 hour trip made me realize a. I dislike long car rides b. this was a blessing and I should be thankful - we arrived had some issues but in the end it was an incredible blessing to be there.
The conference was a missions conference - and that was a blessing - I was poured into and could find truth to apply to my life in many ways and it felt great to seek God again, in a setting where I was able to seek Him in the crowd and not feel so watched. God challenged me so much during this retreat. I dont know all the words to say about it - just that God and me have a lot of work to do, its the refiner's fire for me.
When we came back to nyc we went to manhattan again and a late night followed. I do not like being cold when I sleep I have discovered. Its not fun at all. But none the less the church blessed us soo much in nyc. I love this about being a part of the Body of Christ - we are all together in this. Cheers to adventures and God's refining process
Anyways we went to New York and after a bit of time got into the church we would be staying in - it was gorgeous - not one of those massive churches that put millions of dollars into decor but rather it was like I walked into my grandparents house. It was so lovely. We went to Time Square and had a blast experiencing manhattan at night. The next morning came way too fast where we carpooled with the nyc church up to Rochester for the GKYM conference. The church blessed us and we drove up in a 15 passenger van and the 7 hour trip made me realize a. I dislike long car rides b. this was a blessing and I should be thankful - we arrived had some issues but in the end it was an incredible blessing to be there.
The conference was a missions conference - and that was a blessing - I was poured into and could find truth to apply to my life in many ways and it felt great to seek God again, in a setting where I was able to seek Him in the crowd and not feel so watched. God challenged me so much during this retreat. I dont know all the words to say about it - just that God and me have a lot of work to do, its the refiner's fire for me.
When we came back to nyc we went to manhattan again and a late night followed. I do not like being cold when I sleep I have discovered. Its not fun at all. But none the less the church blessed us soo much in nyc. I love this about being a part of the Body of Christ - we are all together in this. Cheers to adventures and God's refining process
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Holidays
There has always been a tradition in my family growing up. For the past ever we have spent Christmas morning together and have enjoyed being all together - niece and nephew and even the brother in law. Some how we always made it work. But this year the schedule had to be molded around mine and thankfully my family is full of love and was willing to move around it. It was a crazy weekend - church home family pack. It seemed like there was never enough hours to accomplish all that I had to do and wanted to do. I told my mom lets skip Christmas next year. LEts do a big family vacation in the new year instead. And while for me that might work - I highly doubt it will happen. Here is the thing I am learning there are seasons of my year that are insane and others that are far more calming. This year has been a year of firsts. And so my first Christmas here was something else but at the same time throughout it all God was faithful and beckoned me to come to Him first. My parents came to church on Sunday and watched all the different aspects of the educational departments performances and the rest of the service. It is easy to see how quickly Christmas can become a busy day instead of the celebration - so next year we will do it a bit differently but I end with this - I am so blessed too have an incredible family and an incredible church family that I love with everything in me.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Days Off
Going from a college student to a person with an actual job I have come to treasure what one would call a "day off". At first I felt really guilty when I took the day off. Here is the thing with being a pastor - there is always more work that can be done- there is always something else that needs your attention. My previous professor told me when I started this position that I would need to put up boundaries and make sure that I took my time off when I needed to etc. So I have learned the art of taking the day off.
Yesterday should be summed up as a sweats and home day - I got out of bed at noon - yes noon - (in my defense I was awake at nine - I just decided not to get up) and spent the afternoon in my little apartment which (miraculously) I tidied up (although you wouldnt guess it now) made homemade peanut butter cups. I went over to my neighbors apartment to watch their two year old son so they could go to an appointment. After that I fell asleep on the couch and woke up at 8 (might I state evening naps are the WORST - it totally messes up your sleeping) so I had to stay awake a bit so I baked meringue cookies (I had costco amount of eggs to go through) and i decided I will let my youth binge tonight while we bake for Christmas day.
The best part was talking to my childhood best friend Katherine on the phone late last night. We have 13 years of friendship and she is the only friend I have that knows me inside and out - she understands my dramatic flair to life (border line appreciates it) and has crossed to the other side of relationships (married almost a year now). Its funny how history friendships work - there is this all powerful trump card in the relationship that even if we dont talk for a month or two - once we do its as if no time passed and its a comforting relationship to have in my life.
I have a handful of friends that I have kept close to my heart and I know that they will morph and change over time but thats okay - God has always put the people I needed in my life - in my life at the right time.
Days Off I think are more about comfort than anything else - I get to adventure to NYC next week so I needed the day to "putter". I needed to process (I over think all the time) and I found that comfort level I needed to be able to be at peace again.
Yesterday was a day of comfort - like putting on a favourite hoodie - it just fit perfectly.
Now the ridiculous amount of baking I have done has led me to the following conclusion
i need a set of metal or glass mixing bowls, I need tupperware to put it in and I dream of a kitchen aide mixer *sigh* and an actual counter to bake on! One day haha!
Yesterday should be summed up as a sweats and home day - I got out of bed at noon - yes noon - (in my defense I was awake at nine - I just decided not to get up) and spent the afternoon in my little apartment which (miraculously) I tidied up (although you wouldnt guess it now) made homemade peanut butter cups. I went over to my neighbors apartment to watch their two year old son so they could go to an appointment. After that I fell asleep on the couch and woke up at 8 (might I state evening naps are the WORST - it totally messes up your sleeping) so I had to stay awake a bit so I baked meringue cookies (I had costco amount of eggs to go through) and i decided I will let my youth binge tonight while we bake for Christmas day.
The best part was talking to my childhood best friend Katherine on the phone late last night. We have 13 years of friendship and she is the only friend I have that knows me inside and out - she understands my dramatic flair to life (border line appreciates it) and has crossed to the other side of relationships (married almost a year now). Its funny how history friendships work - there is this all powerful trump card in the relationship that even if we dont talk for a month or two - once we do its as if no time passed and its a comforting relationship to have in my life.
I have a handful of friends that I have kept close to my heart and I know that they will morph and change over time but thats okay - God has always put the people I needed in my life - in my life at the right time.
Days Off I think are more about comfort than anything else - I get to adventure to NYC next week so I needed the day to "putter". I needed to process (I over think all the time) and I found that comfort level I needed to be able to be at peace again.
Yesterday was a day of comfort - like putting on a favourite hoodie - it just fit perfectly.
Now the ridiculous amount of baking I have done has led me to the following conclusion
i need a set of metal or glass mixing bowls, I need tupperware to put it in and I dream of a kitchen aide mixer *sigh* and an actual counter to bake on! One day haha!
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Life Event 2
I love my life!
I really do
I love where God has brought me
it has not been an easy path but it has been the very best path
In February an old professor of mine asked if I would be interested in a youth ministry job - I politely declined.
But he insisted we have coffee. (My cheapness knew he would pay so I agreed)
The friday he first texted me I cried and cried (yes I have an incredible ability to tear up and cry - dont judge me)I cried out of fear, out of grief, out of doubt, out of insecurity out of it all...
I had a great plan in my mind a few jobs I knew would open up and I was just passing time till it came up than I would apply...
So I had tons of people praying - pastors mentors board members, grandparents everyone was praying for this meeting between myself and an old prof
so in the end I met with him and I was excited at the end - I went to Cuba then I came back and preached for two weeks in a row
my first sermon was terrible - actually T-E-R-R-I-B-L-E
second one was better - and on Friday that week I was offered the position.
That whole month between the text message and the job, was a month of battle
I had grown to love MWPA and I had a passion for all I was doing - I loved my preschool kids, my bosses, the staff, the areas of volunteering I was involved in - something in me said stay - at the same time something else in me was saying go. I didnt know which one was God and what was me - I will never forget that Friday when I met with Elder Kwon and the Senior Pastor Sim. I was a wreck - I called my mom in the parking lot and I was shaking - I ended up walking into the church (most people would have assumed I was lost) and the groundskeeper just asked me about myself - I said a little then I asked his story and he poured out his story from his heart - God spoke so clearly through him - I knew this is where I belonged and I was more terrified than ever before.
Elder Kwon was running late and a young adult I recognized came down and said I could wait upstairs - I dont think he realized how terrified I was inside - so I just kept talking to this gentleman who is now on the missions field because God told him to "go".
Anyways I met that night and I accepted the position.
So I am the English Ministries Pastor at Edmonton Korean First Presbyterian Church.
its been 8.5 months and I am so thankful I surrendered to God's plan for my life.
I really do
I love where God has brought me
it has not been an easy path but it has been the very best path
In February an old professor of mine asked if I would be interested in a youth ministry job - I politely declined.
But he insisted we have coffee. (My cheapness knew he would pay so I agreed)
The friday he first texted me I cried and cried (yes I have an incredible ability to tear up and cry - dont judge me)I cried out of fear, out of grief, out of doubt, out of insecurity out of it all...
I had a great plan in my mind a few jobs I knew would open up and I was just passing time till it came up than I would apply...
So I had tons of people praying - pastors mentors board members, grandparents everyone was praying for this meeting between myself and an old prof
so in the end I met with him and I was excited at the end - I went to Cuba then I came back and preached for two weeks in a row
my first sermon was terrible - actually T-E-R-R-I-B-L-E
second one was better - and on Friday that week I was offered the position.
That whole month between the text message and the job, was a month of battle
I had grown to love MWPA and I had a passion for all I was doing - I loved my preschool kids, my bosses, the staff, the areas of volunteering I was involved in - something in me said stay - at the same time something else in me was saying go. I didnt know which one was God and what was me - I will never forget that Friday when I met with Elder Kwon and the Senior Pastor Sim. I was a wreck - I called my mom in the parking lot and I was shaking - I ended up walking into the church (most people would have assumed I was lost) and the groundskeeper just asked me about myself - I said a little then I asked his story and he poured out his story from his heart - God spoke so clearly through him - I knew this is where I belonged and I was more terrified than ever before.
Elder Kwon was running late and a young adult I recognized came down and said I could wait upstairs - I dont think he realized how terrified I was inside - so I just kept talking to this gentleman who is now on the missions field because God told him to "go".
Anyways I met that night and I accepted the position.
So I am the English Ministries Pastor at Edmonton Korean First Presbyterian Church.
its been 8.5 months and I am so thankful I surrendered to God's plan for my life.
Grad Photos
I hate bad photographers - I dont mean the random person with a cam wow app, I mean the school photographers that make you look so awkward in photos and give no passion to you as an artist.
needless to say I strongly disliked my photos - there was no cap - I forgot it was picture day - and he was a stone man - no excitement - so the pictures turned out unlike what I like or appreciate or want my family to display so in came my hero - Christine with Uncontained Photography based in Fort Mac but does work throughout ALberta
She is AMAZING!!! Actually Amazing!!!
I am so glad I know her - she is worth the investment!
This was perhaps one of the first times I no longer thought of myself as a girl - or as a child - slowly this was growing up time - this was time to become a young lady or maybe even a young woman. It was going to be the beginning of truly being an adult - taking care of myself and being proud of who I am and what I have accomplished and the life God has led me too
needless to say I strongly disliked my photos - there was no cap - I forgot it was picture day - and he was a stone man - no excitement - so the pictures turned out unlike what I like or appreciate or want my family to display so in came my hero - Christine with Uncontained Photography based in Fort Mac but does work throughout ALberta
She is AMAZING!!! Actually Amazing!!!
I am so glad I know her - she is worth the investment!
This was perhaps one of the first times I no longer thought of myself as a girl - or as a child - slowly this was growing up time - this was time to become a young lady or maybe even a young woman. It was going to be the beginning of truly being an adult - taking care of myself and being proud of who I am and what I have accomplished and the life God has led me too
Life Event 1
So to update you on my life of the past year and a bit this is probably the second biggest thing ---- GRADUATION
I finally graduated with my 4 year (although it feels like a blink and a trillion years all at once) Bachelor of Arts in Intercultural Studies with a Children and Family Studies Minor.
I can remember my last assignment, a 10 page personal reflection paper for professor Big Mac (name is a whole other post to explain) and I pounded it out in 3 hours (yes a record for me)it was the weirdest feeling knowing full well that was my last assignment - the one I had been counting down to for the previous 8 semesters, the feeling that a major accomplishment had been achieved, but I was the only one done - so celebration had to be postponed till Nova was done - she took forever mind you
anyways I can remember in my first year when I crossed the stage for my hms certificate I heard a fourth year saying that I had no idea what real graduation was like - this was just a premature grad for me - I had a long way to go still - man they were right... so finally it was my time and I soaked it in... (random fact about me - if i have an opportunity to soak it in - I will - welcome to why I love birthdays and christmas and all of these distinct moments)
so graduation was the second biggest event this year
Okay now before you say why is she barefoot let me explain...
I love heels - 5"10 being my height I secretly enjoy clearing 6" - actually
So Grade 12 grad I bought beautiful heels - 7 weeks before grad I broke my ankle - no heels for 2007....
I bought a beautiful pair for grad this year - in fact I wore them all day (minus from am service to car - I was barefoot then)
When it was my turn to cross the stage my feet were sweaty (grossness >.<) and I was shaking - so I simply kicked them off - barefoot vs falling on my face in front of people - I went for barefoot - welcome to my life...
This is one of my absolute FAV couples - RandC are perhaps one of the most inspiring couples I know - R graduated a couple years before me - but he was one of the most influential guys at school in my life - I could ask him a question and he would simply give me an honest answer, and he has perhaps the biggest heart ever! Then his wife C graduated a year before me - she is one of the most amazing lady I know. She doesnt apologize for who she is nor does she make excuses - she gets stuff done and does it in an incredible way - she has walked with me and Nova through alot - I admire her tenacity and her commitment to the people in her heart is amazing - it is an honor to know these two!
This is Elder Kwon and His wife - you will find out about them later - lets just say this is the beginning of that area of my life
I finally graduated with my 4 year (although it feels like a blink and a trillion years all at once) Bachelor of Arts in Intercultural Studies with a Children and Family Studies Minor.
I can remember my last assignment, a 10 page personal reflection paper for professor Big Mac (name is a whole other post to explain) and I pounded it out in 3 hours (yes a record for me)it was the weirdest feeling knowing full well that was my last assignment - the one I had been counting down to for the previous 8 semesters, the feeling that a major accomplishment had been achieved, but I was the only one done - so celebration had to be postponed till Nova was done - she took forever mind you
anyways I can remember in my first year when I crossed the stage for my hms certificate I heard a fourth year saying that I had no idea what real graduation was like - this was just a premature grad for me - I had a long way to go still - man they were right... so finally it was my time and I soaked it in... (random fact about me - if i have an opportunity to soak it in - I will - welcome to why I love birthdays and christmas and all of these distinct moments)
so graduation was the second biggest event this year
Okay now before you say why is she barefoot let me explain...
I love heels - 5"10 being my height I secretly enjoy clearing 6" - actually
So Grade 12 grad I bought beautiful heels - 7 weeks before grad I broke my ankle - no heels for 2007....
I bought a beautiful pair for grad this year - in fact I wore them all day (minus from am service to car - I was barefoot then)
When it was my turn to cross the stage my feet were sweaty (grossness >.<) and I was shaking - so I simply kicked them off - barefoot vs falling on my face in front of people - I went for barefoot - welcome to my life...
This is one of my absolute FAV couples - RandC are perhaps one of the most inspiring couples I know - R graduated a couple years before me - but he was one of the most influential guys at school in my life - I could ask him a question and he would simply give me an honest answer, and he has perhaps the biggest heart ever! Then his wife C graduated a year before me - she is one of the most amazing lady I know. She doesnt apologize for who she is nor does she make excuses - she gets stuff done and does it in an incredible way - she has walked with me and Nova through alot - I admire her tenacity and her commitment to the people in her heart is amazing - it is an honor to know these two!
This is Elder Kwon and His wife - you will find out about them later - lets just say this is the beginning of that area of my life
Friday, December 16, 2011
I became my worst pet peeve
So here is something that most people do not know
If I follow your blog (and by follow I dont mean that it is clicked that I follow you - I mean that you are bookmarked as a fav) I check your blog almost everyday. Yes Everyday that I am on my laptop I check blogs. I dont know why I necessarily likle blogs so much, I guess its because at your own convienence you get to keep up with various peoples' lives and such. Any ways I HATE when people dont post forever, or they have a blog for a season and then its done.. So essentially what I have done is my biggest pet peeve.
Oh well, I dont really care if you read or not, but I think more than anythign blogs have become personal memories. A lady I know made a blog while pregnant that in it she wrote many posts for their now 2 month old baby girl. It would be neat to be able to read what your parents thought of you and dream for you since the beginning....
So I guess this is me making a stake in the ground for myself. My own personal memory lane and thoughts that in the end other people get to see (slightly creepy perhaps but oh well)...
I think for me this is my story, this is what is important to me and what has made me into me.
If I follow your blog (and by follow I dont mean that it is clicked that I follow you - I mean that you are bookmarked as a fav) I check your blog almost everyday. Yes Everyday that I am on my laptop I check blogs. I dont know why I necessarily likle blogs so much, I guess its because at your own convienence you get to keep up with various peoples' lives and such. Any ways I HATE when people dont post forever, or they have a blog for a season and then its done.. So essentially what I have done is my biggest pet peeve.
Oh well, I dont really care if you read or not, but I think more than anythign blogs have become personal memories. A lady I know made a blog while pregnant that in it she wrote many posts for their now 2 month old baby girl. It would be neat to be able to read what your parents thought of you and dream for you since the beginning....
So I guess this is me making a stake in the ground for myself. My own personal memory lane and thoughts that in the end other people get to see (slightly creepy perhaps but oh well)...
I think for me this is my story, this is what is important to me and what has made me into me.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Forever I know!!
Okay i am sorry, i know its been forever, infact multiple months, but hey i am busy like everyone else.
I really wanted to let you know something really exciting!!!!!!!!!!1
I am going to CUBA!!!!!!!!
I will be gone February 19-26 and will be going as a leader with my school to work kids in Havana.
I am so excited to be challenged with leading the team fund raising events and trying to work my butt off to pay for this one.
Please pray for me! I am going to need alot of wisdom and discernment on this one!!!
I know very little information right now except that this is what I need to do to graduate with my minor in children and family studies!!!
I promise to post more now that school is in full swing!
I really wanted to let you know something really exciting!!!!!!!!!!1
I am going to CUBA!!!!!!!!
I will be gone February 19-26 and will be going as a leader with my school to work kids in Havana.
I am so excited to be challenged with leading the team fund raising events and trying to work my butt off to pay for this one.
Please pray for me! I am going to need alot of wisdom and discernment on this one!!!
I know very little information right now except that this is what I need to do to graduate with my minor in children and family studies!!!
I promise to post more now that school is in full swing!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
An Excuse to Verbalize
Wow, okay so I had no idea if I would ever blog again but here I am typing.
Mainly this is a crazy realization that I have been home for over three months. I cant even describe to you the ache in my heart to be in Quebec again, its crazy how much I miss the people at the church and constantly being in Valeries way and getting excited when Alain my mon amis would be coming home.
I miss the discussions over chess with MR Meyer and hanging out with the ladies. Earl and Danny and I having fun and watching Rachel and Aaron play at the arcade. Italian Poutine and galavanting into Montreal to watch Efa play. Seeing Grace every week and snow boarding with her.
All in all i miss it so very much.
Its crazy how so much time as already past but these people are ingrained into my memory and tattooed onto my heart.
I miss them so much!
So cheers to memories
Mainly this is a crazy realization that I have been home for over three months. I cant even describe to you the ache in my heart to be in Quebec again, its crazy how much I miss the people at the church and constantly being in Valeries way and getting excited when Alain my mon amis would be coming home.
I miss the discussions over chess with MR Meyer and hanging out with the ladies. Earl and Danny and I having fun and watching Rachel and Aaron play at the arcade. Italian Poutine and galavanting into Montreal to watch Efa play. Seeing Grace every week and snow boarding with her.
All in all i miss it so very much.
Its crazy how so much time as already past but these people are ingrained into my memory and tattooed onto my heart.
I miss them so much!
So cheers to memories
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Moving
Okay So i am moving in with my oldest sister and I have come to a few conclusions
1. I HATE my apartment being out of place
2. I HATE packing
3. I HATE having everythign in boxes
4. I LOVE the fact that I get to live with my sister
5. I LOVE the fact that I get to have her cooking alot more
6. I LOVE the fact that I am a week away from 4 and 5!!!
I really dislike having to pack more boxes and I ran out of packing paper so now my phone book is protecting those fragile items. I realized that somehow three years of incredible times, journeys, late ngiht teas, all hours country music playing will be dearly missed. But Rebekah and her dog are welcoming me so I guess thats cool!
Life moves on, A month ago I was just about to leave Quebec, yes thats right a MONTH! Woah what a journey! A busy month has insued. I got a job at laura in west ed and I am really enjoying it! Other than that I am just enjoying the sun and last week the snow
1. I HATE my apartment being out of place
2. I HATE packing
3. I HATE having everythign in boxes
4. I LOVE the fact that I get to live with my sister
5. I LOVE the fact that I get to have her cooking alot more
6. I LOVE the fact that I am a week away from 4 and 5!!!
I really dislike having to pack more boxes and I ran out of packing paper so now my phone book is protecting those fragile items. I realized that somehow three years of incredible times, journeys, late ngiht teas, all hours country music playing will be dearly missed. But Rebekah and her dog are welcoming me so I guess thats cool!
Life moves on, A month ago I was just about to leave Quebec, yes thats right a MONTH! Woah what a journey! A busy month has insued. I got a job at laura in west ed and I am really enjoying it! Other than that I am just enjoying the sun and last week the snow
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Ray Ray Home
Well here I am, two weeks ago I was shoving everything I had into my bags and packing up Valeries car for the airport the next morning. Here I am in Edmonton, serving at Boston Pizza and all the sudden it hit me so hard that I miss Quebec. I miss the church, I miss seeing all of the church members. I miss the experiences of waking up in a strange place and the adventure of getting to know whats all around me. The good the bad all of it created an experience for which I am extremely thankful that I had the opportunity to experience...
Friday, April 16, 2010
A journey home ~
Well this was my last day...
What a ride these past few months have been...
I cant even imagine my life without Quebec..
I am going to miss this place sooo much..
But at the same time I am so ready to be home! I cant wait to be with my family again..
Ill update more later!
<3 Rach
What a ride these past few months have been...
I cant even imagine my life without Quebec..
I am going to miss this place sooo much..
But at the same time I am so ready to be home! I cant wait to be with my family again..
Ill update more later!
<3 Rach
Saturday, April 10, 2010
How did this happen?
WOAH AS IF. I am on the final week. 13.5 have flown by....
I wish I could describe all that is going on in my life right now. As times of sayign goodbye start it is the hardest thing I ever imagined. These people who just barged into my heart I am now having to leave.
They tell us in class that 3 months is a long time but at the same time it is a simple blink in time. I am here in Quebec after living a life that I could have never dreamed of. This week is exciting to be in, it means that I have survived Quebec with my petite knowledge of the language. I have been initiated into the world of bread and cheese at all hours of the day, wearing dress clothes all the time and to the world of loving on people in a whole new way.
This journey is incredible! God has been so faithful and I cannot say that I am the same person as when I arrived!
Dear Quebec
You barged into my heart, please don't hate me for leaving!
Love me
I wish I could describe all that is going on in my life right now. As times of sayign goodbye start it is the hardest thing I ever imagined. These people who just barged into my heart I am now having to leave.
They tell us in class that 3 months is a long time but at the same time it is a simple blink in time. I am here in Quebec after living a life that I could have never dreamed of. This week is exciting to be in, it means that I have survived Quebec with my petite knowledge of the language. I have been initiated into the world of bread and cheese at all hours of the day, wearing dress clothes all the time and to the world of loving on people in a whole new way.
This journey is incredible! God has been so faithful and I cannot say that I am the same person as when I arrived!
Dear Quebec
You barged into my heart, please don't hate me for leaving!
Love me
Friday, March 26, 2010
80
There is not enough time to do a big post, however there is time for a tiny one.
80 days. Do you know what that means?
That means that 80 days ago I started this crazy adventure.
80 days ago I was freaking out about who I would be living with, whether i would ever be able to survive in Granby, and doubts all of the emotions I felt were crazy. To kiss my niece and nephew goodbye for 3.75 months and to leave my life in Edmonton.
Someone said it would fly by
I did not believe them
The first 20 some days I did not believe them.
But here I am 11 weeks and three days later.
CRAZY.
Time is flying by, adventures have filled the ever learning moments here.
Thanks for keeping up with me,
we got a bit to go!!
80 days. Do you know what that means?
That means that 80 days ago I started this crazy adventure.
80 days ago I was freaking out about who I would be living with, whether i would ever be able to survive in Granby, and doubts all of the emotions I felt were crazy. To kiss my niece and nephew goodbye for 3.75 months and to leave my life in Edmonton.
Someone said it would fly by
I did not believe them
The first 20 some days I did not believe them.
But here I am 11 weeks and three days later.
CRAZY.
Time is flying by, adventures have filled the ever learning moments here.
Thanks for keeping up with me,
we got a bit to go!!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
things i love in granby
In light of reading my last post one more to add to today.
heres what i love in Granby!
i love la cafe brewlerie! Seriously great coffee and i love reading my book there
galavanting with Valerie
watching movies at home with val
going out with ashley when she comes home
sunday mornings with all the church people
how we go out for lunch every sunday with people and simply have incredible conversations
going to the zoo with earl and claudette
hanging out with aaron and maybe even bowling
i love driving into montreal
i love hanging out with val and alain - watching their marriage is a really incredible blessing
cooking at home
creating kids ministry stuff
looking at the photographs that all the church people have of their past
grocery shopping - i dont like it in edmonton
filling the plant water feeder things in all the plants
sitting by the window in the early morning sun and reading and praying there with fresh cup of coffee
getting together with all the area pastors
seeing the kids in the morning at b'club
heres what i love in Granby!
i love la cafe brewlerie! Seriously great coffee and i love reading my book there
galavanting with Valerie
watching movies at home with val
going out with ashley when she comes home
sunday mornings with all the church people
how we go out for lunch every sunday with people and simply have incredible conversations
going to the zoo with earl and claudette
hanging out with aaron and maybe even bowling
i love driving into montreal
i love hanging out with val and alain - watching their marriage is a really incredible blessing
cooking at home
creating kids ministry stuff
looking at the photographs that all the church people have of their past
grocery shopping - i dont like it in edmonton
filling the plant water feeder things in all the plants
sitting by the window in the early morning sun and reading and praying there with fresh cup of coffee
getting together with all the area pastors
seeing the kids in the morning at b'club
The gift of today
I have been blown away the past few days. It has been a few of the best days that I have experienced since I have been here. I am on day 70 today, which means that I am over 2/3rds done. This life has become normal to me.
It has been really hard to not have people my age constantly around me. I am the only twenty year old female in the church. Sometimes it gets frustrating to be by yourself with no one to relate to. Its not that the people here are terrible people, in fact I rather enjoy their company. The ladies here are really beautiful and they all have experiences and knowledge that I can benefit greatly from. They are incredible people who have poured out such tremendous love on me that I will forever be different because of them.
But on the flip side of this I am still alone in my age in Granby. This is where Grace comes in. Grace just turned 18 and she is so beautiful. She has this incredible call on her life. She is truly one of the most beautiful girls I know. She exemplifies patience, mercy and love. I can describe her like a peony. So understated, growing in the garden, but so beautiful and delicate and unique. She has been the one who keeps me sane. Pop tarts and Tea by the wood stove or recently House of Jazz, her friendship is greatly treasured in my life. She lives in Knolton and know that I don’t have a car our visits are a lot harder to plan, and because her mom does a home church every other weekend and the other times she is leading worship when her mom speaks at the Baptist church seeing her is something I treasure immensely since it does not happen a lot.
On Thursday night last week I decided to head into Montreal to watch Efa Etoroma Jr (from Edmonton but is currently attending McGill) and his band Ruckus Fo’tet play at Gerts. I was originally planning on taking Grace but she had a doctors appointment early morning Friday and since the show was at midnight I ended up taking Isabelle along with me. Isabelle is a girl (well lady shes 31) who Grace works with and has been checking out the youth group that I take the pastor’s son to. It was interesting to spend time with her and to attempt to answer some of her questions during the drive. It is cool to see how God is working in her life. Slowly revealing himself to her. Well apparently I hyped up the band a lot so she was expecting great things, and of course Ruckus Fo’tet delivered. An incredible show made the late night and the very early morning worth it. It was really incredible to be able to just go and see Efa Jr play. They were incredible and brief conversation with him made my week all the better. Sometimes all you need is to see someone from home to make you be able to keep going.
Saturday was spent at the Sugar Shack with Valerie and Alain who I live with! It was tones of fun to go and explore a bit of Quebec culture. They syrup was so much better than in Alberta. Valerie and Alain have been so good to me. They have gone far above and beyond what I could ask for or even dream of. Please pray blessings and favor for them. They have taken me in as if I was their own, and they deserve the very best of blessings. So please pray for them! Saturday afternoon was supposed to be a board meeting but it got canceled so when we got back that evening we watched three movies that are based on Jannette Oaks “Love Comes Softly” series. It was a great end to the day to sit and relax and Alain had quite the time laughing at Valerie and I as we cried and laughed through the three films.
Sunday was super busy, this is always a crazy day but it was great! The girl in the church who is in Ontario as a nanny came home for the week so it was great to catch up with her. I preached Sunday night and God was so faithful.
Monday came soon enough and well surprisingly Efa Jr’s status on facebook came up about the House of Jazz gig he was playing last night. So with the perfect place to take Grace to for her belated Birthday night we went to Montréal once she was done work and got to see the jam session of House of Jazz. This place is so unique and so divine. The music of course was incredible and we even had a chance to talk to Efa Jr. I do not know if you have ever had two separate parts of your world collide but last night I did. The Edmonton life and Granby life collided and it was so lovely!!!! I was in heaven last night.
In our conversation with Efa the question of what am I doing for fun while I am here came up. To be honest I really had to think about it. I enjoy what I am doing I really do, but other than the few times I went snowboarding and the few afternoons with Grace I don’t do a lot of things that I love here. That may sound weird but let me explain. Granby does not have a ton of things to do. I walked the nature center last week and I get to do things with Church people, but my life right now is the church. I am constantly at the church or with the church people. Now I love this church and the people so for me going with them and exploring little parts of the area has been fun. But these two times of going to watch Efa Jr play have been some of the nicest moments because I was able to completely relax and do something that I always love to do when I am home in Edmonton.
I love music and exploring little cafes and restaurants and discovering new things on the spur of the moment. And last night was an incredible gift to me. I was able to see someone from home and be with Grace and see incredible music in a new place all in one moment.
I love how when my sanity and my secret hopes God allows them to happen and so to you guys I send this little note, I hope that you see how much this church and the people in it have been a huge blessing to me, how they have opened their arms to me and poured out love onto me. How God provides people who you need in your life and how he cares about the small desires buried deep down and how He really does give the very best gifts to his children.
I was talking to a very wise person from home about a girl my class who got a job as a childrens pastor. This is her passion and she loves kids so much and it is so incredible when people who are young get to do what they love to do. And watching these guys last night in all their talents with music and to just get up on stage listen to each other and than come together for a jam session blew my mind. When Efa Jr and these other guys played and used their God given talents I truly believe that God was so proud of them. God was in it, that might not make sense to you but God shows up when we use our gifts and talents to the very best ability. It was truly so beautiful to listen and to enjoy it. I wonder what the world would be like if all of us did to the very best of our ability what we are passionate about. Just a thought.
“God’s gifts put man’s best dreams to shame” – Elizabeth Barrett Browning
It has been really hard to not have people my age constantly around me. I am the only twenty year old female in the church. Sometimes it gets frustrating to be by yourself with no one to relate to. Its not that the people here are terrible people, in fact I rather enjoy their company. The ladies here are really beautiful and they all have experiences and knowledge that I can benefit greatly from. They are incredible people who have poured out such tremendous love on me that I will forever be different because of them.
But on the flip side of this I am still alone in my age in Granby. This is where Grace comes in. Grace just turned 18 and she is so beautiful. She has this incredible call on her life. She is truly one of the most beautiful girls I know. She exemplifies patience, mercy and love. I can describe her like a peony. So understated, growing in the garden, but so beautiful and delicate and unique. She has been the one who keeps me sane. Pop tarts and Tea by the wood stove or recently House of Jazz, her friendship is greatly treasured in my life. She lives in Knolton and know that I don’t have a car our visits are a lot harder to plan, and because her mom does a home church every other weekend and the other times she is leading worship when her mom speaks at the Baptist church seeing her is something I treasure immensely since it does not happen a lot.
On Thursday night last week I decided to head into Montreal to watch Efa Etoroma Jr (from Edmonton but is currently attending McGill) and his band Ruckus Fo’tet play at Gerts. I was originally planning on taking Grace but she had a doctors appointment early morning Friday and since the show was at midnight I ended up taking Isabelle along with me. Isabelle is a girl (well lady shes 31) who Grace works with and has been checking out the youth group that I take the pastor’s son to. It was interesting to spend time with her and to attempt to answer some of her questions during the drive. It is cool to see how God is working in her life. Slowly revealing himself to her. Well apparently I hyped up the band a lot so she was expecting great things, and of course Ruckus Fo’tet delivered. An incredible show made the late night and the very early morning worth it. It was really incredible to be able to just go and see Efa Jr play. They were incredible and brief conversation with him made my week all the better. Sometimes all you need is to see someone from home to make you be able to keep going.
Saturday was spent at the Sugar Shack with Valerie and Alain who I live with! It was tones of fun to go and explore a bit of Quebec culture. They syrup was so much better than in Alberta. Valerie and Alain have been so good to me. They have gone far above and beyond what I could ask for or even dream of. Please pray blessings and favor for them. They have taken me in as if I was their own, and they deserve the very best of blessings. So please pray for them! Saturday afternoon was supposed to be a board meeting but it got canceled so when we got back that evening we watched three movies that are based on Jannette Oaks “Love Comes Softly” series. It was a great end to the day to sit and relax and Alain had quite the time laughing at Valerie and I as we cried and laughed through the three films.
Sunday was super busy, this is always a crazy day but it was great! The girl in the church who is in Ontario as a nanny came home for the week so it was great to catch up with her. I preached Sunday night and God was so faithful.
Monday came soon enough and well surprisingly Efa Jr’s status on facebook came up about the House of Jazz gig he was playing last night. So with the perfect place to take Grace to for her belated Birthday night we went to Montréal once she was done work and got to see the jam session of House of Jazz. This place is so unique and so divine. The music of course was incredible and we even had a chance to talk to Efa Jr. I do not know if you have ever had two separate parts of your world collide but last night I did. The Edmonton life and Granby life collided and it was so lovely!!!! I was in heaven last night.
In our conversation with Efa the question of what am I doing for fun while I am here came up. To be honest I really had to think about it. I enjoy what I am doing I really do, but other than the few times I went snowboarding and the few afternoons with Grace I don’t do a lot of things that I love here. That may sound weird but let me explain. Granby does not have a ton of things to do. I walked the nature center last week and I get to do things with Church people, but my life right now is the church. I am constantly at the church or with the church people. Now I love this church and the people so for me going with them and exploring little parts of the area has been fun. But these two times of going to watch Efa Jr play have been some of the nicest moments because I was able to completely relax and do something that I always love to do when I am home in Edmonton.
I love music and exploring little cafes and restaurants and discovering new things on the spur of the moment. And last night was an incredible gift to me. I was able to see someone from home and be with Grace and see incredible music in a new place all in one moment.
I love how when my sanity and my secret hopes God allows them to happen and so to you guys I send this little note, I hope that you see how much this church and the people in it have been a huge blessing to me, how they have opened their arms to me and poured out love onto me. How God provides people who you need in your life and how he cares about the small desires buried deep down and how He really does give the very best gifts to his children.
I was talking to a very wise person from home about a girl my class who got a job as a childrens pastor. This is her passion and she loves kids so much and it is so incredible when people who are young get to do what they love to do. And watching these guys last night in all their talents with music and to just get up on stage listen to each other and than come together for a jam session blew my mind. When Efa Jr and these other guys played and used their God given talents I truly believe that God was so proud of them. God was in it, that might not make sense to you but God shows up when we use our gifts and talents to the very best ability. It was truly so beautiful to listen and to enjoy it. I wonder what the world would be like if all of us did to the very best of our ability what we are passionate about. Just a thought.
“God’s gifts put man’s best dreams to shame” – Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Thursday, March 11, 2010
a new type of day
Well here I am day 65.
Eating turnips and carrots with parm cheese in it.
I am sitting in Granby Quebec and it feels like normal
I am at the point where this seems like my own life. With the odd exception most moments here are enjoyable and quite entertaining. There are a few rough patches but hey, no ones life is perfect.
I am enjoying the church, they are genuinely great people. Last week was our DVBS and it was an incredible success because of some very key people who simply stepped up to the plate sacraficially and helped me out on the days. With 22 kids as the peak day it was a beautiful organized chaotic delight. This church cooks incredibly well, and all those kiddies got great meals each day. I have been able to ask tons of questions a every moment and have not been more welcomed anywhere i can think of.
I miss home, to not say so would be lying, i miss my friends, my babies at church that i teach, the youth... i miss it, but i know I am where I am supposed to be and that makes it all the better. When i go home ill miss this place.
ITs an incredible journey so far. Words can not describe how truly wonderful and special this place is to me.
for the record tims roll up the rim 2 for 9 i think maybe 2 for 11... is more like it!
Eating turnips and carrots with parm cheese in it.
I am sitting in Granby Quebec and it feels like normal
I am at the point where this seems like my own life. With the odd exception most moments here are enjoyable and quite entertaining. There are a few rough patches but hey, no ones life is perfect.
I am enjoying the church, they are genuinely great people. Last week was our DVBS and it was an incredible success because of some very key people who simply stepped up to the plate sacraficially and helped me out on the days. With 22 kids as the peak day it was a beautiful organized chaotic delight. This church cooks incredibly well, and all those kiddies got great meals each day. I have been able to ask tons of questions a every moment and have not been more welcomed anywhere i can think of.
I miss home, to not say so would be lying, i miss my friends, my babies at church that i teach, the youth... i miss it, but i know I am where I am supposed to be and that makes it all the better. When i go home ill miss this place.
ITs an incredible journey so far. Words can not describe how truly wonderful and special this place is to me.
for the record tims roll up the rim 2 for 9 i think maybe 2 for 11... is more like it!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
MARCH? No way...
Well Hello March
Spring is in the air and I know this by two reasons
1. Snow is melting and the weather is up and down between day and night in the positive negative scale
2. Roll up the rim to win began yesterday
I love a good excuse for coffee! College fund hullo!
February came to a great end with a great visit to my family in Ontario. More on that on another post.
Met up with my mom!!!
My Granny Turned 100!!!!
Me and My Baby Cousin Tyler!!
This week is the dvbs which has started off with a great start! Kids have come had fun and a lot of them have come from some unique and difficult family situations. It has had to come with some creative driving to pick some of them up but its worth it!
I must say that I am past half way mark and to think this adventure is just beginning it feels. Alot of time hashing things out with God has been spent. Trying to figure out dreams and desires and how to honor Him in all situations.
This adventure is worth the effort and longer post is to be expected when there is not dvbs going on!
Valentines Day With my Date Rylie, We went skating!
Spring is in the air and I know this by two reasons
1. Snow is melting and the weather is up and down between day and night in the positive negative scale
2. Roll up the rim to win began yesterday
I love a good excuse for coffee! College fund hullo!
February came to a great end with a great visit to my family in Ontario. More on that on another post.
Met up with my mom!!!
My Granny Turned 100!!!!
Me and My Baby Cousin Tyler!!
This week is the dvbs which has started off with a great start! Kids have come had fun and a lot of them have come from some unique and difficult family situations. It has had to come with some creative driving to pick some of them up but its worth it!
I must say that I am past half way mark and to think this adventure is just beginning it feels. Alot of time hashing things out with God has been spent. Trying to figure out dreams and desires and how to honor Him in all situations.
This adventure is worth the effort and longer post is to be expected when there is not dvbs going on!
Valentines Day With my Date Rylie, We went skating!
Monday, February 15, 2010
mountain vs me
Seriously the price for skiing here is cheap. So I decided to enlist Grace to help me learn to snowboard, after two weeks I made it alive through the bunny hill and the half mountain! I got sweet bruises to prove it. Alas, the awesome snow outfit of mis-matched outfit and board are still somehow divine! So Lesson learnt – even I can snowboard… Well, sometimes…
so every thursday i get to go with Grace and tackle the hill.
Me and Grace after an eventful first day
this is what i did most of the first times
Grace patiently waiting for me..
so every thursday i get to go with Grace and tackle the hill.
Me and Grace after an eventful first day
this is what i did most of the first times
Grace patiently waiting for me..
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