Lambchop's Adventures

Time flies

2007-07-13T14:57:00.000-07:00

Still putting one foot in front of the other and trying to get pictures organized from the trip. Hopefully one day soon I'll finally write something again. Been doing a lot of thinking, processing and reflecting, I have no idea where the last two months have gone. It definitely has been an adjustment this summer not picking up and traveling seeing everyone, having a 9 - 5 is totally different from the teaching world, but am learning a lot from this opportunity.

Hiking in the dirt

2007-05-02T08:27:00.000-07:00

Life has been a bit of a roller coaster ride here lately. We're not promised the next day or our next breath and that's become all to real to me over the past few weeks. Remaining faithful in walking with God has provided strength beyond measure not only to myself but to those around me. I"m grateful for His provision.

At the end of this week I'll be hopping a plane to travel to Turkey and Israel and I can't wait to be on the road or actually in the air again. I have been given the opportunity to hike and trek in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul and the disciples. We'll be hiking in the terrain of these countries where Paul and the disciples once traveled in his missionary journeys. We'll be visiting the Sea of Galilee, Ephesus, Izmir, and Cappadocia to name a few of the destinations on this journey I'm honored to be a part of. I'll be in touch again at the end of this month sharing more about what I will have learned on this amazing trip.

Free Falling

2007-03-25T23:07:00.000-07:00

The pastor at church this past weekend used the phrase "free falling." Following God sometimes feels like you've jumped out of a plane and you have no parachute but you know who to trust in and who will catch you to ensure a safe landing. Bottom line, once you jump out of the plane you have no control and you only have your trust in Christ to rely on. This should be enough right?

I've got to admit, this is something I'm struggling with. Here lately I've allowed my job and profession to have a tendency of leaning on being in control, as well as striving to seek the approval of others to influence me greatly, silly I know. It's been great to finally be teaching these past couple of weeks, but with the population I'm educating there's an underlying pressure that I need to know what I'm doing and have everything put together. This has been a challenge since what I'm teaching is still not all put together. Without boring details of it all, I've basically found myself battling becoming "of" the world, instead of just being "in" it. I've allowed the "world" to influence my mind and thoughts, while at the same time I've neglected the one who truly matters and who I should be leaning on at all costs, Jesus.

With my mind swirling this afternoon, not wanting to truly stop and be still, a song that I never heard before began playing. The title of it is "Undo," here are parts of the lyrics:

I've been here before, now here I am again

Standing at the door, praying You'll let me back in

To label me a prodigal would be

Only Scratching the surface of who I've been known to be

Turn me around pick me up

Undo what I've become

Bring me back to the place

Of forgiveness and grace

I need You, need Your help

I can't do this myself

YOU'RE the only one who can undo

What I've become

Trying to do things on my own strength and will, not only effects me but those around me as well and I seek His forgiveness. Thankfully, He can undo the places I tend to find myself in. He reminded me that I don't have to have it all together, duh!!!! I know this, it's amazing how the enemy can attack from all sides, in the most subtle ways.

I'm so thankful that we're able to continually come back to our Abba, regardless of how many times I try to do things on my own. I'm going to do the best I can with this "free falling" allowing Him to place me wherever He wants me to land. I'm thankful for His forgiveness and grace that still amazes me. I just need to trust in His plan and not my own. Thank you Father for using music and words to speak.

I'm learning how vital it is to "pick up your cross" daily!

Thinking

2007-03-09T22:21:00.000-08:00

Thoughts here lately:

There's a cost with the CROSS

There's a cost with loving others

Suffer with those who suffer

Conquerors!

2007-03-07T15:13:00.000-08:00

In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us —Romans 8:37

Paul was speaking here of the things that might seem likely to separate a saint from the love of God. But the remarkable thing is that nothing can come between the love of God and a saint. The things Paul mentioned in this passage can and do disrupt the close fellowship of our soul with God and separate our natural life from Him. But none of them is able to come between the love of God and the soul of a saint on the spiritual level. The underlying foundation of the Christian faith is the undeserved, limitless miracle of the love of God that was exhibited on the Cross of Calvary; a love that is not earned and can never be. Paul said this is the reason that "in all these things we are more than conquerors." We are super-victors with a joy that comes from experiencing the very things which look as if they are going to overwhelm us.

Huge waves that would frighten an ordinary swimmer produce a tremendous thrill for the surfer who has ridden them. Let’s apply that to our own circumstances. The things we try to avoid and fight against— tribulation, suffering, and persecution— are the very things that produce abundant joy in us. "We are more than conquerors through Him" "in all these things"; not in spite of them, but in the midst of them. A saint doesn’t know the joy of the Lord in spite of tribulation, but because of it. Paul said, "I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation" (2 Corinthians 7:4 ).

The undiminished radiance, which is the result of abundant joy, is not built on anything passing, but on the love of God that nothing can change. And the experiences of life, whether they are everyday events or terrifying ones, are powerless to "separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord" ( Romans 8:39 ).

In the words of Oswald Chamber's, just thought I'd post the words that resonated with me as I read them. I'm continually being reminded to look up and not focus on the distractions, challenges, and experiences that test my faith, yet at the same time spurs on growth. That I belong to God and I am His and nothing can separate His love for me!

Crazy and Free

2007-01-21T20:26:00.000-08:00

Approximately six months ago, I was driving down to South Florida after my return to the States to visit some family and friends after not seeing many for almost a year, as well as taking this time to seek the Lord as I was in the midst of making decisions on where in the world do I go from here? As I was driving it was a very freeing experience, I know, you're thinking Lori have you lost it, well maybe. It was freeing because I was able to hit the open road like I'd done some many times before leaving this country to go live in a foreign land where for almost a year my means of travel were by foot, train, tram, or air. So what am I getting at? The point is that this specific drive down to West Palm that I've done a million times over was the beginning of a new chapter or better yet new level that God was going to bring me to in my walk with Him. Little did I know how He would and continues to bring freedom into my life that's drawing me closer to Him. However, during this ride down to South Florida a song by Mercy Me began playing and the words to the song "Crazy" struck me like they never had before. Again, the Lord answered my prayer as I was seeking His direction. It was the beginning of learning how to really hear God speak as I was crying out to Him. Here are the lyrics:

Crazy

Why I would I spend my life longing for the day that it would end..

Why would I spend my time pointing to another man..

Isn’t that crazy

How can I find hope in dying, with promises unseen..

How can I learn your way is better In everything I’m taught to be..

Isn’t that crazy

I have not been called to the wisdom of this world..

But to a God who's calling out to me..

And even though the world may think I'm losing touch with reality

It would be crazy

To choose this world over eternity

And if I boast let me boast

Of filthy rags made clean

And if I glory let me glory

In my Savior's suffering

Isn’t that crazy

And as I live this daily life

I trust you for everything

And I will only take a step

When I feel You leading me

Isn’t that crazy

I have not been called to the wisdom of this world..

But to a God who is calling out to me..

And even though the world my think

I'm losing touch with reality

It would be crazy

To choose this world over eternity

Call me crazy

You can call me crazy

Call me crazy

As a believer of Jesus Christ, things are not going to make sense when we follow Him. I haven't been called to the wisdom of this world but to God, who has called me to live out His plan and purpose for my life. So over the course of the years, as I've decided to live in foreign lands and return to my own country and then move to the opposite side of it, I'm learning how to listen and trust my Heavenly Father with each step. Although the road has had changes throughout this journey, sometimes it's been smooth and easy to drive, other times there's been bumps, roadblocks, or mountains to maneuver through, with each twist and turn, it's a stepping stone to get closer to the One who created me for His purpose, design, and glory not my own.

Since I've been here in Washington, I've been able to meet people who are crazy in love with Jesus. Which in turn, has taught me and continues to teach me how to freely, love and worship the Lord like I never have before. This journey of serving God is an amazing one, it truly is crazy at times, but it's so worth it. It has been neat to be able to visit different churches who have completely different styles and methods of worship but it's all been worship just in different ways.

Some of the things the Lord has shown me here lately are elementary, He's showing me how to get back to the basics which is to find peace and rest in Him and Him alone. To stop looking at other things or people, but to truly rest in who He is.

Peace I leave you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts by troubled and do not be afraid.

~John 14:27

To be a living sacrifice, to truly walk in His spirit. That's why He gave us the Holy Spirit so that He can live in and through us!

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God ------this is your spiritual act of worship. ~Romans 12:1

So what does crazy and freedom bring? I'm going to recall a saying a good friend mine reminds me often of which is, "It's all about the journey!" The journey of following Jesus is truly a crazy one, He wasn't accepted by this world and it's fine by me if I'm not accepted either. I've already been accepted by the One who truly matters.

Merry CHRISTmas

2006-12-26T12:25:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful and Merry Christmas celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

I pray peace and joy during this season for you all!

Thankful

2006-11-27T21:45:00.000-08:00

1 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. 2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. 3 Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever, his faithfulness continues through all generations. ~ Psalm 100

Wow, shouting for joy, it's funny how we can do that literally, from the mountain tops as loud as our voices will carry, and how we can be shouting for joy in a quiet place where His peace and comfort just surround us like a big comfy blanket. I know, you're probably thinking, Lori, what in the world is going on.....well, that's an easy and hard one to explain all at the same time. To save from writing a novel, as I sit here with a fire dwindling down and the snow just falling like crazy, blanketing the trees, roof tops, cars and roads, the joy of our Father covers us in the same way if we allow Him to. I'm so thankful and grateful to be able to experience the joy and love of our Father in a way where the other day coming out of a store it's snowing buckets and it was a time where a woooohooo!!! was the only appropriate response that could be muttered (joy!). However, I've also been able to experience His love and provision as I sit in a new and overwhelming job wondering what in the world is going on, but at the same time just quietly smiling giving thanks for being in a place where it's allowing me to rely more and more on the strength of my amazing Father, knowing that I am His, the sheep of His pasture and He is my shepherd. Thank you Abba!!!

As I came across the 100th Psalm on Thanksgiving day, I was filled with an overwhelming thankfulness for who God is and what He has done and continues to do for those who believe and trust in Him. Thankful for the provision He's blessed me with, a place to live, health, a job, friends and family,the narrow road, and even the simple things of being able to sit as the fire dwindles in the fireplace and reflect on who the true light source is as well as watch the simple act of snow falling from the sky. It's the simple things that truly amaze me and make me shout for joy and sing praises, sometimes aloud, but most often times within the quiet, deep place in my heart He has created and continues to shape and mold.

“Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done.”
~1 Chronicles 16:8

Do it now!

2006-11-11T23:43:00.000-08:00

He said, ’Take now your son . . .’ —Genesis 22:2

God’s command is, "Take now," not later. It is incredible how we debate! We know something is right, but we try to find excuses for not doing it immediately. If we are to climb to the height God reveals, it can never be done later— it must be done now. And the sacrifice must be worked through our will before we actually perform it.
"So Abraham rose early in the morning . . . and went to the place of which God had told him" ( Genesis 22:3 ). Oh, the wonderful simplicity of Abraham! When God spoke, he did not "confer with flesh and blood" ( Galatians 1:16 ). Beware when you want to "confer with flesh and blood" or even your own thoughts, insights, or understandings— anything that is not based on your personal relationship with God. These are all things that compete with and hinder obedience to God.
Abraham did not choose what the sacrifice would be. Always guard against self-chosen service for God. Self-sacrifice may be a disease that impairs your service. If God has made your cup sweet, drink it with grace; or even if He has made it bitter, drink it in communion with Him. If the providential will of God means a hard and difficult time for you, go through it. But never decide the place of your own martyrdom, as if to say, "I will only go to there, but no farther." God chose the test for Abraham, and Abraham neither delayed nor protested, but steadily obeyed. If you are not living in touch with God, it is easy to blame Him or pass judgment on Him. You must go through the trial before you have any right to pronounce a verdict, because by going through the trial you learn to know God better. God is working in us to reach His highest goals until His purpose and our purpose become one.
~Oswald Chambers

Rock

2006-10-29T22:27:00.000-08:00

Praise be to the Lord my Rock,

who trains my hands for war,

my fingers for battle.

He is my loving God and my fortress,

my stronghold and my deliverer

my shield, in whom I take refuge,

who subdues peoples under me.

O Lord, what is man that you care for him,

the son of man that you think of him?

Man is like a breath;

his days are like a fleeting shadow.

~Psalm 144:1-5

Out of steam

2006-10-18T02:17:00.000-07:00

Shan and I are officially exhausted! In the past week we have ventured up and down the streets, slums, & plush areas of Tacoma, been hired on to teach a computer program at a hospital, found new shelter, read a lot, procrastinated on homework, watched Lost, went to chemo, cleaned out old boxes in the garage, met with women, smelled like coffee, experienced God's huge provision and blessings... now we are officially wiped out... down for the count... ready for Zzzzzs... and thankful for every moment.
Yeah, so tired, Shan and I have the same blog entry, thanks Shan.

What's Up?

2006-10-03T00:58:00.000-07:00

We are to keep our eyes focused on what is unseen and not what is seen......boy is this a tough lesson to grasp, but an important one. As I ponder this principle He's given to us in His Word my mind goes in a million different directions as I still am in search of work since coming out to the beautiful state of Washington. However, God is definitely using this time to stretch, teach, grow, and reveal so much about Himself to me during these last couple of months. So as I'm simultaneously looking for work, Ive been able to work and help out at the houseboats that Shan's mom rents out here in the harbor. (Picture of boat won't come up so I'll do it later).

So as my mind begins to wonder and I sometimes:0) alright most often times take matters into my own hands, I'm learning how to truly depend on Jesus as these scriptures were brought to my mind the other day.

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. ~2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Once again, I need to let go and let Him carry out His plan and lay my own aside. Oh the joys of experiencing and growing in Him!

Peace

2006-09-27T01:14:00.000-07:00

Do no be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer

and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will

guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

~ Phillipians 4:6-7

I'm learning the importance Paul applies to prayer here. How true it is that prayer is a vital practice in our walk with the Lord. I seek His forgiveness for neglecting this important practice in my relationship with my Heavenly Father. There are different types of prayer, different ways we can pray but nontheless, it's a practice that is a necessity. The peace of God is a direct result and answer to prayer, even though we're not able to fully understand and comprehend it, those of us who have a relationship with Jesus Christ can deeply experience His peace. Thank you Abba!

Power

2006-09-10T13:44:00.000-07:00

"No one or no one thing has greater power or authority than Jesus. God has given this authority to those who have a relationship with Him."

As I read these words, they resounded in my head and thoughts for some time, as they continue to do. I asked myself, have I truly been living and walking in the power and authority that Christ has given me? The unfortunate answer was no, I've been passive and apathetic just kind of laying low. The bottom line here is that without His power and authority we will fail. I've been able to experience this as I've tried to do so many things in my own strength, and it just doesn't work that way. He's designed us to rely on Him and Him alone. He's provided power through the Holy Spirit.

And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as My Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven. ~ Luke 24:49

But when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, you will receive power and will tell people about Me everywhere in Jersusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. ~Acts 1:8

I'm learning to believe, walk and apply the authority He's given to us who know Him. An example of a certain disciple is given in the book of Acts. This "certain" disciple is known as Ananias. He was not in a high position or some big wig he was a "certain" disciple that God used to exercise His mighty power.

And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as yo ucam, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and wea baptized. ~Acts 9:17-18

Those of us who by his grace are a believing follower of Jesus Christ qualify as a "certain" disciple. There are many times that we disqualify ourselves becuase we may just be "normal", there's no way in the world that I could measure up to John, Paul, or even come close to Moses or Elijah, but it's just not true, if the Holy Spirit is whithin us, then we too have the mighty power just as Ananias did as well as any other disciple. Thank you Father for your amazing power!!! Help me to apply it daily in my life!

Restoration

2006-09-05T23:57:00.000-07:00

Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. ~ Psalm 51:12

Sea to Shining Sea

2006-08-24T22:28:00.000-07:00

It's been a while, I know I've been such a bad blogger, so here's a quick update. I can't believe that a little over seven weeks ago I was halfway around the world wrapping up a year of teaching with some incredible students as well as meeting some great people while being able to live,experience, and learn about the amazing grace our God gives to us. I can't thank everyone enough for your prayers and encouragement throughout this past year. To the right are some of my high school students that woke up very early to send me off at the airport. I already miss these guys, but can't wait to hear about their lives throughout this year as they continue to learn and grow.

I'm back now in the good ole' USA however, not where I thought I would be (hence the previuos post about "home" being a relative term). As I was looking upon returning to the east coast and having my eye on a couple of southern states, particularly Georgia, God threw me in an entire new direction for which I'm so grateful for as He continues to mold, teach, guide, reveal Himself to me in more ways than I could possibly imagine.

I'm now living in Washington (the state) where my Father is teaching me so very much about just simply living for Him and not myself. Where He has the big picture in mind and I just need to simply walk where He leads. It's a pretty neat place to be in, this "faith walk" I like to refer to continues to get more and more exciting. Within the first week of being here I've been able to attend an amazing church that's so alive as well as being able to connect with many "likeminded" folks. So as I mentioned before, home is such a relative term because ultimately my home is not here on this earth for which I'm so very grateful.
By the way,I'm hoping to be able to keep up this blogging thing a little more frequently since I'm back in the country now to give you east coast folks an easy way to keep up with things:)

Stateside

2006-07-19T20:31:00.000-07:00

I've been home for a little over two weeks, well, I should say I've been Stateside for a little over two weeks. Home is well, however, a relative term at the moment. After spending July 4th with my family, I hit the road to visit other friends and family. It's been great to see folks and just spend time with you all....unfortunately I'm not able to see everyone, but hopefully I'll be able to get in touch with most of you somehow, very soon, thank you for your patience:) As far as home being a relative term, I'll explain more about that later. Let me say for now that He's showing me that our "home" here is temporary, and our real "home" is with Him!!!!

Wrapping things up

2006-06-23T05:23:00.000-07:00

Well, as the time comes to a close here in Slovakia, my heart goes through a million different feelings and emotions. This has been a year where I've been able to see God provide in ways that I could never ever imagine in my life. I've been able to experience His love, grace, and faithfulness beyond measure! I've been truly blessed to be able to live in a foriegn land, to be an outsider and know what it is to be secluded in a society as stares track me getting on the bus, tram, or just standing in a line. However, at the same time barriers have lessen and come down where relationships have been able to form. Although they may not have been completely removed, it was enough to be able to share our lives together. The infamous question this week from my high school students has been, "Miss Lamb what will you miss about Slovakia?" As I begin to reflect over this past year, and trust me I still have a lot of reflection to do, my immediate thoughts are that I will miss what this country and others have been able to teach me. For example, from my high school students to the older generation of SK, they've taught me the great importance of relationships, and what really matters, that it's ok to just sit and spend time with each other not having a distraction or excuse to get together, but to just be......to keep things simple, we sometimes make things so very complicated, but why, just keep it simple......as my brain processes these thoughts I've realized that I've changed, but how, I'm not sure what the answer to that question is at the moment, because there's been many changes.....however, I believe they were changes that He's allowed me to make for the better as some were easy and some were so very tough, but I've learned that tough and challenging is a good thing. As this year overseas comes to an end, at the same time it's a beginning of being able to reflect and take the lessons that have been learned onto another path in this amazing journey He gives to us.
(Pictures are not working on blogger right now, I will post when it gets running again, thank you for your patience as technology has continued to be a challege, yet I'm grateful for communcication when things are working:)

Focused

2006-05-25T06:36:00.000-07:00

". . . do not worry about your life. . ." ( Matthew 6:25 ). Our Lord pointed out that from His standpoint it is absolutely unreasonable for us to be anxious, worrying about how we will live. Jesus did not say that the person who takes no thought for anything in his life is blessed— no, that person is a fool. But Jesus did teach that His disciple must make his relationship with God the dominating focus of his life, and to be cautiously carefree about everything else in comparison to that. In essence, Jesus was saying, "Don’t make food and drink the controlling factor of your life, but be focused absolutely on God." ~chambers It truly is amazing how He works when we surrender and focus on Him and allow everything else to come second......I want more!!!!!!!!!!

Simply

2006-05-19T02:36:00.000-07:00

Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin" (Matthew 6:26-28)— they simply are!

Our heavenly Father knows our circumstances, and if we will stay focused on Him, instead of our circumstances, we will grow spiritually— just as "the lilies of the field."

"Shall tribulation . . . ?" Tribulation is never a grand, highly welcomed event; but whatever it may be— whether exhausting, irritating, or simply causing some weakness— it is not able to "separate us from the love of Christ." Never allow tribulations or the "cares of this world" to separate you from remembering that God loves you ( Matthew 13:22 ).

The words of Oswald Chambers resonate within me as I read his encouragement, reminders, and insights of our amazing Father. Life really can be simple if we just stay focused. However, often times we allow things, people, and circumstances to distract us. He will be with us in times of trouble (Psalm 91:15). Often times our "troubles" are not that major they just happen to be things that distract us from where our focus should be.

Finishing

2006-05-15T22:43:00.000-07:00

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. ~ Hebrews 12:1-3

Have you ever ran a race and thought there's no way in the world you have the strength to finish it? That every bump, pot hole, or obstacle that arises keeps knocking you down and you're not sure if you can pick yourself back up? Lately, I've been learning and being reminded of what it is to persevere, where my joy comes from, and that when I grow weary and lose heart He is there. I'm learning that He will pick me up when I've stummbled, fallen, or landed flat on my face, when I'm so tired and things look so discouraging that I don't necessarily want to finish the race He is there carrying me even when I don't even realize it. Perseverance, joy, fixing my eyes on Him have become more real than ever before. There is nothing that I can do on my own strength but everything comes from Him and Him alone because I am His and not my own. As this year winds down and comes to an end, His Word truly is the bread that gives nourishment and strength. Thank you Abba for the pruning process in our lives!

Croatia

2006-04-21T07:12:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh...the sounds of waves, such a peaceful and relaxing time over the Easter break. Shantra and I had the opportunity to be able to travel to Croatia and enjoy the amazing hospitality of the Croatian people and people in general.

He provided every step of the way on this adventursome journey I was blessed to be able to take. It was a great time from traveling, to taking walks and hikes, and sitting on the rocks of the Croatian shoreline on the Adriatic Sea. Looking out into the vast ocean allowed the time of just being, thinking, reflecting, and praying. I'm continually thankful for who He is and how He continues to teach, provide, challenge and show up even through my many doubts and questions. What a journey this continues to be.

2006-04-07T05:48:00.000-07:00

Life is not about getting what I want now. It's about being in unbroken fellowship with the Father----waiting on His perfect timing and provisions. ~ B. Coy
After reading this quote that jumped off the page at me, I've made it a goal to try to daily put this into practice. Often times I take matters into my own hands and try to fix things, make it work, whatever it takes. I'm learning that yes, we do have to put some footwork behind goals we would like to achieve, but at the same time we must also find the balance in waiting and listening to Him, knowing that He will fulfill his purpose for me (Psalm 138:8) So I will continue to try to not abandon what He has planned for me, but to wait patiently, even if it stretches me to the very last minute or second of the timeline that I may have in my head. His plan is so much better than my own, when am I going to learn this?

Blessed

2006-03-23T22:41:00.000-08:00

Blessed Be Your Name
In the land that is plentiful
Where Your streams of abundance flow

Blessed be Your name
Blessed Be Your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness

Blessed Be Your name
Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name
Blessed be Your name

When the sun's shining down on me
When the world's 'all as it should be'
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be Your name

On the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be Your name

Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, blessed be Your name
~ Matt Redman (Where Angles Fear to Tread)

Living

2006-03-22T05:05:00.000-08:00

Living a life of faith means never knowing where you are being led.
But it does mean loving and knowing the One who is leading. It is literally a life of faith, not of understanding and reason— a life of knowing Him who calls us to go. Faith is rooted in the knowledge of a Person, and one of the biggest traps we fall into is the belief that if we have faith, God will surely lead us to success in the world. ~ Oswald Chambers

He knows our hearts so very well, as He allowed me to read this at just the right time I needed some encouragement. The last few weeks have been busy, draining, tiresome, and the list can go on. I think I'm in the midst of learning to lean on Him when there's nothing left of me. I'm learning that's exactly where He wants me, not having a clue what's going on and to redirect my focus on Him and Him alone and not rely on my own plans. Although this is the place I'm at right now, not understanding and having so many questions, I continue to cling to our awesome Father who has the big picture and whose plans are better than my own. I'm learning to love the One who is leading me and reminding me of the eternal perspective and not the worldly one that can so easily consume our attention. I'm learning that this is a journey through rushing waters, moutain tops, valleys, calm rivers and streams. It's definitely been and continues to be an adventure when there are times when I'm confidently rowing in the boat and then times where I'm reaching for a life preserver. I'm thankful that even though I don't have a clue what the future holds, I just know WHO holds it!

But those who hope in the LORD

Will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles;

They will run and not grow weary,

They will walk and not be faint. ~ Isaiah 40:31

I'm Yours

2006-03-08T22:37:00.000-08:00

Lord, I'm Yours. Whatever the cost may be, may Your will be done in my life. I realize I'm not here on Earth to do my own thing or to seek my own fulfillment or my own glory. I'm not here to indulge my desires, to increase my possessions, to impress people, to be popular, to prove I'm somebody important, or to promote myslelf. I'm not here even to be relevant or successful by human standards. I'm here to please You.

I offer myself to You, for You are worthy. All that I am or hope to be, I owe to You. I'm Yours by creation, and every day I receive from You life and breath and all things. And I'm Yours because You bought me, and the price you paid was the precious blood of Christ. You alone, are worthy to be my Lord and Master. I yield to You, my gracious and glorious heavenly Father; to the Lord Jesus who loved me and gave Himself for me; to the Holy Spirit and His gracious influence and empowering. All that I am and all that I have, I give to You.

I give You any rebellion in me, that resists doing Your will. I give You my fears, that tell me I'll never be able to do Your will in some areas of my life. I consent to let You energize me.....to create within me, moment by moment, both the desire and power to do Your will.

I give You my body and each of its members.....my entire inner being; my mind, my emotional life, my will...my loved ones, my marriage or my hopes for marriage....my abilities and gifts....my strengths and weaknesses.....my health....my status....my possessions...my past, my present and future...when and how I'll go home. I'm here to love You, to obey You, to glorify You, my Beloved. May I be a joy to You!
~ Ruth Meyers

This is my prayer!!!!!

Encounter

2006-03-06T07:48:00.000-08:00

Have you ever just had one of those days where all is well with your soul with no particular explanation? Well, as I've been reminded here lately, my longing and thirst for Him has been revived and renewed and I've come to learn that it is our amazing Father who is the explanation for it being "well with my soul." It's good to have weekends where we 're able to just spend time with Him.

Desires of our Hearts

2006-02-16T06:01:00.000-08:00

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of you cause like the noonday sun. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. ~ Psalm 37:3-7

I truly am in awe at the moment and have been pretty much the entire week. In less than 48 hours my friend Shantra and I will be getting on a plane to visit some friends in Morocco, Africa. Amazing!!!!!
That's all I've been able to say since the plans have been finalized. As many of you know, I've always wanted to go to this country and my statements of me being able to go there became a running joke. Well, it's no joke, our amazing Father has granted me a desire of my heart and it really is a miracle how He allows and guides our steps. What a blessing this is, I look forward to this opportunitinty to visit and enjoy refreshing fellowship with brothers and sisters in Him! Once again, His mercy and grace overwhelm me!

Ordinary

2006-02-15T06:13:00.000-08:00

"We do not need the grace of God to withstand crises-----human nature and pride are sufficient for us to face the stress and strain magnificently.
It does require the supernatural grace of God to live 24 hours of every day as a saint, going through drudgery, and living an ordinary, unnoticed, and ignored existence as a disciple of Jesus.
We have to be exceptional in the ordinary things of life and holy on the ordinary streets, among ordinary people. "

I've been doing a lot of reading on trams, trains, along different paths He's taking me and our amazing Father is constantly teaching, stretching, and guiding me along the awesome journey He's allowing me to experience. Just thought I'd share an excerpt that spoke and continues to run through my mind here lately. I'm learning a lot about the grace of our awesome Father.......I'm grateful to be able to run back to Him and just be with Him no matter how far I've seemed to stray along my own path at times.

Frozen!!

2006-01-27T04:28:00.000-08:00

Well, this week I've been able to experience the coldest weather I've ever been in. At the beginning of the week the temp. was a lovely negative 18 degrees Celsius, which is around 5 degrees F. Let me share a quick story with ya, on the way to work Monday morning, I got off the tram to walk to my bus and realized I smashed a banana that was in my side pocket of my back pack, I'd been standing at the bus stop a few minutes before realizing this. I began to take the banana out of my pack, well, the smashed part of the banana was frozen solid! I couldn't believe it, no wonder I thought my toes were going to fall off. I'd only been standing there for a mere ten minutes.....go figure, leave it to me to pick the year to come to Europe when they've had one of their coldest winter's in over eighty years. Don't worry, it's warmed up through the week, today it's 23F, it's nice, warm and sunny! Until next time, ciao!

Adonai

2006-01-20T04:01:00.000-08:00

Y'varekh'kha ADONAI v'yishmerekha.
May ADONAI bless you and keep you.
Ya'er ADONAI panav eleikha vichunekka.
May ADONAI make his face shine on you and show you his favor.
Yissa ADONAI panav eleikha v'yasem l'kha shalom.
May ADONAI lift up his face toward you and give you peace.
Numbers 62.24-26

He is truly amazing, just when you think there's no possible way to get all the things that have been asked of you done, He will send a reminder that He's by my side. This week has been a pretty crazy week with grades due, and boy is it a big deal here, it's a very intense thing. Being that I'm teaching in both the elementary and high school programs, I found myself a bit overwhelmed. My English director of the high school bilingual program sent the above message to me in an email. The larger type is in Hebrew, and the smaller type is of course English. I was so touched by her thoughtfulness to just send a quick message and have it in both languages. It was a reminder to breathe in Him, and Him alone. To not depend on my own strength and resources but our awesome Father's!!!

I made it

2006-01-12T07:44:00.000-08:00

I'm back in Slovakia, I arrived safely back from the little over five thousand mile trip from home. I'm teaching the kiddos and enjoying the cold weather and snow. It was a drastic climate change from Florida to Slovakia as we approached Bratislava and everything was covered in white. I hope everyone is off to a great start this new year. Stay tuned for more updates on this crazy journey He's allowing me to experience. Ciao!!! (one way to say goodbye in Slovak)

Merry Christmas!

2005-12-22T04:32:00.000-08:00

Hey folks, just wishing everyone a wonderful and Merry CHRISTmas, I hope you can find rest in Him during this season:)

Christmas time's a comin'

2005-12-09T04:33:00.000-08:00

It's begining to look a lot like Christmas:) As I approached the downtown area I noticed the beautiful lights, Christmas tree and decorations.
Last night as I was walking in the center of town, I was able to experience the quaint Christmas Market that is here in Bratislava for the month of December. As I walked along through the crowds, I watched people enjoying the food, verene vinko, and the many sweets and treats all the little booths provided. I've been able to visit this lovely area of town a few times in the last couple of weeks and I hope to enjoy it a few more times before the holidays arrive and December has blown right by us. I was able to find a bench and just watch the sights that stirred around me, I was reminded of Luke 2, the story of my Savior's birth. It was a beautiful night to just sit and be reminded what this time of year is really all about.

Wow!

2005-12-08T08:08:00.000-08:00

We had completed our lovely cultural experience and Shan is here drying her hair in the lovely hair dryer thingy. Giving a thumbs up and loving those blue covers we had to wear on our shoes as we entered the building. What a birthday memory:) On the right Laura and I stop for a quick pic on the bridge on our way to the hotel. What a weekend:)

Culture Shock!

2005-12-08T07:46:00.000-08:00

Thr0ugh these doors, it was the point of no return and another lovely cultural lesson my friends Shantra, Laura and myself were able to experience. It was Shan's birthday this past weekend, so we went to a spa town known as Piestany, which is located just north of us a little over an hour from Bratislava. Whoooooaaaaaaa!! is all I could mutter at times.....needless to say, massages over here are done a little differently than back home. It gives a whole new meaning to birthday suit:) Yep, you got it, there were no need for towels, bathing suits, or any other cover up item, we experienced a massage that was rather freeing if you get my drift. There was no need to know the language as we just learned from our observations as we were directed to our little rooms behind the white curtains. This was an adventure that I will never forget, and still can't believe I did, wow, what foreign lands can do to someone, well you know the saying, when in Slovakia........I'll let you finish that phrase. However, it was neat to learn what spas are used here for. Most of the people who come to a spa in Central Europe are usually prescribed to go by a doctor. Many people were there who suffered from various physical pain and ailments, it was cool to learn how it's used more often for health reasons for a variety of different people. Once again, ya never know what's going to happen on a daily basis! What an exciting journey.

Let it Snow.....

2005-11-29T00:19:00.000-08:00

A little over a week ago, we had the first snow of the year, this was the view coming out of the front door of my flat. It was so beautiful as I walked to the bus stop and everything was covered in white. It's beginning to get colder as you can imagine:) This Sunday after going to a coffee shop for a short while, when I went in it was raining, as I walked out, it was snowing like crazy, too bad I didn't have my camera then, it's just so beautiful.......I love it, so far:) It truly is amazing being able to enjoy His amazing creation!

Volleyball :)

2005-11-28T23:34:00.000-08:00

A couple of Friday nights ago several of us had the opportunity to go and see a volleyball game. My friend Shan works with a teacher that plays for the professional European league (I think). It was so nice to walk into the gym and hear the familiar sounds again, the shoes squeaking against the floor, balls bouncing, the sounds of serving and spiking....yeah, you think I'm crazy right, I think I might be well on my way as well:) It was just sounds that were so familiar and that I've been used to for the past several years. It was rather weird to teach school this fall and not be going to a gym after my daily duties. So, as you can tell I miss volleyball, so it was nice to be able to experience the familiar feel and sounds of a gym for a couple of hours as I watched these men play some amazing volleyball. The Bratislava team did very well and ended up winning the match. It was neat to experience volleyball on the other side of the pond:) Here are a couple of pictures to help you see what I was able to watch and enjoy, imagining how my amazing girls did this year!

Thanksgiving in Ten-buck-Two

2005-11-28T08:14:00.000-08:00

It was nice to get away for the Thanksgiving weekend. We were in the middle of nowhere in a little village known as Ravada, a little over two hours away from Bratislava, but it was beautiful. Just a nice place to relax and enjoy the company of other teachers who met us from Hungary. It was a time of being able think, relfect, and just ponder the many lessons, feelings,and emotions that race through my crazy mind these days as He continues to mold and teach me daily.

We had a huge turkeyand it was really good.

This would be the train station we arrived at in Ravada, Slovakia. Yes, it was a bit desolate, basically it was four walls to keep you out of the wind and cold while we waited for our ride when we arrived and while we waited for the train when we left.

These were three of the four horses Jaro, the owner of this place had on his property. They were right at home, if you were walking from your room to the main meeting room or just standing onthe porch they approached you just like a pet. Col, I thought of you as I stood on the porch watching these amazing animals. Seeing them in the snow was like a postcard.

Here my team member Laura was preparing the table for our wonderful feast we were able to enjoy.

Here, Sarah Jane and I decided to take a picture while we were waiting for the team picture to be taken, just trying to have some fun:)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2005-11-23T06:46:00.000-08:00

Hey folks, I just wanted to wish everyone a wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving, no they don't celebrate it over here because it's an American holiday, but we are fortunate enough to get these next two days off to meet with other teachers from Hungary in a little village about an hour away from Bratislava. I hop on a train tomorrow morning to celebrate the day of thanks with other fellow Americans, it will be good to be reaquainted with folks from the homeland as well have a nice little break from school. Just know that my wonderful friends and family will be in my thoughts and prayers during this time of Thanksgiving. I truly am thankful for the people I've been blessed to have in my life, thank you for your love, encouragement, and support in all the crazy paths I seem to take in the journey of life:) Eat plenty of turkey, dressing (not stuffing), pumpkin pie and all that jazz for me. Have a wonderful time of thanks!! I miss and love you all!! By the way, the picture of the beautiful fall leaves was taken in Warsaw, Poland a few weeks ago. We are so blessed to be able enjoy an amazing creation.

Seize the Day!

2005-11-18T03:46:00.001-08:00

"I the LORD do not change." So you, O descendants of Jacob are not destroyed. Malachi 3:6

What a long, tough week, yet rewarding as well. As I come up on three months of being here in Slovakia, my mind races with questions of what in the world am I doing here. There have been many exciting experiences yet many challenges and trials as well. Some I've learned many lessons and others I may never know or understand why things happen. I'm thankful that in the midst of change, He remains the same. While I battle communication issues, not fully understanding the expectations of the school, or feeling as if there are just too many responsibilities and there's no way I can do this, He reminds me that it's not about me. How selfish of me, to try to do things my way and on my own, when all I need to do is turn it over to our amazing Father! He's provided everything I need to do His work, the resources or lack thereof, the people I work with and friends who have provided amazing encouragement and support. How dare me to question His plan. "He is steadfast when everything else changes in and around us," this was a statement mentioned by the speaker at church last week. How true it is and it hit the nail on the head. Amongst various challenges in a land I'm becoming a little more familiar with day by day, He is there, walking beside or even carrying me. This path I'm on in this journey of life is allowing me to dig deeper in root with Him. Seeing that He is my anchor and rock. I've needed to seek His forgiveness for putting Him in the background and allowing life to take over. I'm thankful for an eternal perspective change He's providing! I'm here to seek Him, to learn and become stronger through these growing pains that are being provided in this walk, and to completely rely and become dependent on Him in every aspect of my life, not just the parts I choose. On my way to work the other day as I was listening to some music and was reminded to sieze the day, whatever may cross my path. Whether it be on the bus, the tram, the sidewalk, or train, use every opportunity to share His love and see people through His eyes and not my own. A great friend reminded me how He has entrusted us with this amazing opportunity half way around the world. Wow!! I don't deserve this, yet He's allowing me to stretch and learn through these growing pains. He is faithful even when I am not!
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. James 1:2-4

In Him we lack nothing, amazing!!!!

Wheels on the bus go 'round and 'round!

2005-11-10T07:17:00.000-08:00

Well, as I've stated before, things are a bit different over here than from back home. For example, today we took a field trip to the Bratislava National Museum. First of all you do not need permission slips to do anything. As I was informed, while you have the students you are in control and in charge. You may do and go just about anywhere you would like. So, before we left I asked my director how we were going to go, she informed me it would be by public transport. I asked her, you mean we're taking public transportation?? The bus that I take to work everyday? I just smiled and said ok. Apparently she read my body language, so I had to explain that this is completely foriegn to me, I automatically began thinking, how in the world am I going to keep up with my kids throughout the trip, making sure they stamp their bus ticket and all that fun jazz. Well, we arrived at the bus stop, as the bus stopped and opened it's doors, the kids boarded like a herd of cattle. Lesson number one for me, "We need to go over proper boarding and unboarding of a bus." Come to find out about half of my students ride the bus, the rest either walk or are brought by car. We made it to the museum, got through it with no major catastrophe's, they did very well keeping their hands, feet and other bodily appendages to themsleves. So we get back on the bus to return to school, they boarded a little better, well two stops later, the bus ticket checker gets on. I'm thinking oh great, he checks my pass and everything is good, he begins checking my students and everyone is doing great except my lovely David, he "forgot" to stamp his ticket. Here's a little sidenote, if you don't have a bus ticket or pass and you get caught, it's a pretty nice fine, about 2,000 slovak krowns. So, I look at the checker and David, they look back at me and then the bus stops. This is when they usually ask the people who do not have the ticket to step off, he looked at us, and got off the bus and didn't say anything. I was so very thankful. You must understand, everytime I've seen this happen it's not always a fun thing and people are usually very upset and the checker dude is very strict and adimant about enforcing this law. So, here's lesson number two for me, "Remind your student to not break the law and cheat the public transportation system." We finally returned to school safely with all my little ducks and no one had wandered away. I never dreamed I would say this, but this was a day I wish I had the lovely yellow school bus from back home. By the way, the reason we took public transport is becuase our school like most schools here do not have any school busses. I survived my first field trip here in Slovakia, I'll keep you updated on any other amazing trips and happenings as they continue to occur. We returned just before school was out, so tomorrow we will be having some wonderful conversation of how to get on a bus, how to behave on a bus, ect. Oh the joy of teaching in a completely different setting than what I've been used to, I truly never know what I'm walking into from day to day. However, it keeps me on my toes and makes the day an exciting and adventuresome one.

I love Poland!

2005-11-04T02:14:00.000-08:00

Below: A monastery in Krakow.
Shantra, Diane, and Matt.
Above Right : Part of the Old Town square in Warsaw.

"I love Poland!!!" This was a statement that my friends would just laugh at by the time we left the beautiful country of Poland. It was decorated with the fall leaves and cold, but we still had a good time. As we hopped a train to Warsaw, and then a day later to Krakow, we had an action packed weekend, visiting and seeing the different churches, museums, and the town squares. The weekend was filled with highs and lows as we stayed at hostels known as the "Oki doki" and "Dizzy Daisy" crazy names, eh! Hey, they were shelter and a roof over our head. On the flip side as we visited the concentration camps it conjured up weird emotions, I didn't react as I thought I would. It was a numbing experience. All in all, it was a great a trip and a nice break from the routine of school. It was great to spend time with new and old friends who encourage, challenge and sharpen me. Thanks guys!

Auschwitz

2005-11-04T02:03:00.000-08:00

This past weekend for our fall break, a few of us hopped on a train to visit the country that borders the north of us, Poland. Part of our trip included the opportunity to visit two of the concentration camps (Auschwitz and Birkenau) located about an hour outside of Krakow. This was a sobering experience, to walk in and out of the buildings that once held prisoners and people who lost their lives. It was a odd experience emotionally to be able to see what I've only studied in history books, in person.

The barbed wire fence that surrounded Auschwitz I that used to have electricity running through it.

This was a memorial for the many lives that were lost at Auschwitz and Birenau.

Devin Castle

2005-11-03T05:07:00.000-08:00

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Hebrews 12: 2-3

Sunday in the Park

2005-11-03T04:56:00.000-08:00

Trying to imitate the statues in the background, I think we got pretty close.
Karen, Mel and I enjoying the garden at the Presidential Palace. Basically we're in the President's backyard.

These pictures were taken about a month after we arrived here, hopefully these last few posts can give you an idea of where I am and what it looks like. From here on out, I'll be trying my best to post at least once a week, these last couple of weeks technology has finally cooperated with me:) Yippeee, but it's on a day to day basis, so we shall see how it goes. I'm thankful, everytime I'm able to get to the computer, it's just a challenge at times. It's usually for a limited amount of time, so things have to get done quickly, but at least it can get done:)

2005 Slovakia Team

2005-11-02T03:51:00.000-08:00

This is the 2005 Slovakia Team, these are the girls I get to enjoy Bratislava with. From left to right, Shantra, me, Laura, Karen, and Mel. I'm trying to play catch up on updating this lovely blog. So hopefully I can give more updated and current info. and news.
Just another view of where I'm living and pass by everyday on the way to work. This is a shot of the Novy Most bridge, the tram stop, and a church in the background.

Mosquito Hill

2005-10-26T01:52:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago a few of us girls decided to go hiking, so we took a bus about 20 minutes outside of Bratislava. We began walking and were only able to find paved paths, it was very pretty and beautiful as we walked along the river. Then Shan and I spotted a path(in the background of pic behind Shan) on the side of this mountain( really a big hill:) So the adventerous side got the best of us, as we were going up this land form a swarm of mosquitos attacked us, we had never seen this many mosquitos before and they were tough jokers biting us through our clothes. We ran as fast as we could and finally got back across the street where it was bearable. We'll never look at mosquitos the same again, however, they've provided a many of laughs!

Czech Girls Visit Brat

2005-10-18T07:11:00.000-07:00

Laura, Emily, Jodi, and Darina visited us a few weeks ago. Here we're enjoying the Danube River on a beautiful night in Bratislava.

Scenes of Bratislava

2005-10-18T07:05:00.000-07:00

This is the Bratislava Castle, I pass by it every day going to and from work.

This is a tram, one of the lovely modes of transportation that we take to get around town. This particular stop is known as Novy Most which is a stop I take just about everyday.

Jura Honrca Classroom

2005-10-18T06:46:00.000-07:00

My classroom at the end of the first day of school.

Here I'm getting reacquainted with what a blackboard is, along with wondering what in the world is a sink doing in the middle of my room.

My 4th and 5th graders, they're an exciting bunch:)

Still Plugging Along

2005-09-27T05:45:00.000-07:00

Okay, here's the deal, I'm still here, it's just that technology has not been cooperating with me thus far. I basically have access to email and have not had much time to be able to keep this lovely blog updated. However, I have pictures that I would love to upload but the school's server is not allowing me to complete this task right now. So, you'll just have to keep waiting for the interesting pics, so I hope the anticipation will encourage you to return as I try to keep this updated a little more often :) As far as a quick update, things have been pretty busy, we are in the fourth week of school and I still bascially take it one day at a time. We've had a few schedule changes and I just found out yesterday that our schedule will change at least one more time, possibly more. So my lovely darlings are adjusting rather well, but I think all the changes are taking a toll, just when we seem to have a routine down, we have to change it again. So, it keeps us on our toes and hopping. Along with teaching fourth and fifth grade, I also have two sections of high school students who are 14, 15, 16 years of age. They are a bright spot of my day. I have them for English Writing beginner level, and they are absolutely amazing, the students love to hear my stories of me riding the bus and trams and how I've gotten lost in the city, as well as losing my footing and going from the middle of the bus to the front of the bus ending up in a ladies lap after the driver slammed on his breaks. As they informed me, I'm very different from their traditional teachers in that I share different stories of my life. It's been neat connecting with them, some are still hesitant, but are warming up slowly. My hands are definitely full, but I'm learning to embrace this amazing opportunity God has given me to take this path in the journey of life. He has continued to display his faithfulness, because I'm definitely learning that it's not of me, but completely of Him that I'm able to be here and be a part of these amazing things. Well, now that I've been a little wordy, hopefully you can get an idea of what's been going on. I keep working on the pictures, until then, peace out! Galations 6:9

Arrived in Bratislava

2005-09-06T05:27:00.000-07:00

Alright, I finally have access to technology and can let you know what the latest has been.....I've been here in Bratislava for a little over two weeks now, it seems as if it's been a bit longer, but adjusting to new surroundings and culture can be a bit challenging. Now since I know my way around a little better it's not such a daunting task, however, figuring out and riding the trams and buses is another story.....I haven't ended up in another country quite yet, but have ended up on the other side of Bratislava not knowing which way is which, but it's nice to ride the entire route of the 1 tram and figure out where the train station is by accident:) Walking, buses, and trams are the modes of transportation which happens to be nice and rather enjoyable most of the time, except when you're squished on a bus like sardines, but you get used to it. My teammate and I are doing the best we can to make our flat a home, it still needs some work, slowly but surely it's getting there. There's only so much you can do with concrete walls, not much, if anything will go into them, so tape becomes rather handy. Well, I have to run for now, I'll update hopefully with some pics soon. Peace out!!

Lambi's new Do'

2005-08-16T17:23:00.000-07:00

Lori and Shan dive into their new adventures to Slovakia starting with bright brand new hair! Please stay tuned for the next update... from Slovakia!

My New Blog

2005-08-13T18:32:00.000-07:00

Hey folks, okay, here we go, I'm getting a little high tech here and learning how to actually use technology. I know it's about time :) Hopefully this will help in keeping everyone up to date with the happenings and adventures half way across the world. Well, I've completed four weeks of training in Pasadena, California and this week will be my final week to wrap up and get ready to depart to Bratislava, Slovakia for the next year. Training has definitely been an intense time, yet a growing, learning, and stretching experience. I'm grateful that our awesome God who knows the big picture. I'm going to run now, I'll add more later when I figure this whole thing out. Later!