Yesterday I was walking from the postoffice back to our truck and a little old man was walking just a few feet in front of me. He was wearing an old woolen hat and a tattered coat that was much too large for him and as he walked along he scratched his behind. It made me smile and I thought: God loves that man.
God created this man in his image just as he created me in his image. Jesus died for this man just as he died for me. And God loves this man just as much as he loves me. In God's eyes we are equal - even though my world is so different from his.
In God's eyes we are the same and infinitely precious to him. That really blows my mind! How I long to share this amazing truth to the little old man and to so many others that I see on the streets of our town.
It's Christmas season and I am thankful for the cooler weather that makes candles more enjoyable. We have been lighting the candles of our advent wreath every morning and it does help to remind me what Christmas is all about - the advent of Christ, our Savior who brought joy to this world and is able to give me joy in my world each day.
And so I celebrate the joy, light and love that God gave to us through Jesus as I light the candles each morning.
May your days be merry and bright!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
and more
Thursday, November 19, 2009
photos
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
It's Christmas!
At least in our house! Put up the tree yesterday and had the perfect weather for it - after a hot week it suddenly cooled down and rained yesterday so I had fun putting up decorations, feeling cold and listening to Christmas music. Love this time of year with candles and being able to cuddle without getting all hot and sticky!
This is our third week back and the boys have settled in well and have been way less challening these past few days. Maybe it's partly my attitude, too. I felt like I was just reprimanding and scolding them all day so I deliberately decided to enjoy them again and do fun things with them so that has helped.
Dylan is starting to enjoy helping me in the kitchen, chopping vegetables (he's only nicked his finger once so far!) and setting the table so that's cool! And Elliot does whatever Dylan does so he's underfoot in the kitchen, too.
Last week we celebrated Elliot's 2nd birthday and Ayden's 2 month birthday! Elliot is so cute, stubborn, still runs into doors or trips over things at least once a day, loves the cat and his brothers and is so sweet and gentle with Ayden even though he's usually not very careful. He's so different from Dylan and it's fun to watch his personality come out more and more!
Ayden is growing well and is still the easiest Baby, so contend (except when his tummy is bothering him) and very cute. He's smiling and responding and I'm glad he joined our family!
Here's a funny story about Dylan that I finally remembered long enough to write down somewhere: I took him and Elliot to the "supermarket" one of two places where we can buy fresh milk and dairy products and all other food items that delight our foreign heart. I just wanted to quickly run in and get some frozen chicken so they waited in the car. But the packets were all stuck together in the freezer and so it took longer than expected. When I finally got back into the car I explained why it had taken so long and that it was hard for the lady working at the store to get the chicken out of the freezer for me. And Dylan says: Yes, it needs a mens (a man) to do it. Mens are strong but ladies aren't. A mens could do it but a lady can't. :)
Photos will follow!
This is our third week back and the boys have settled in well and have been way less challening these past few days. Maybe it's partly my attitude, too. I felt like I was just reprimanding and scolding them all day so I deliberately decided to enjoy them again and do fun things with them so that has helped.
Dylan is starting to enjoy helping me in the kitchen, chopping vegetables (he's only nicked his finger once so far!) and setting the table so that's cool! And Elliot does whatever Dylan does so he's underfoot in the kitchen, too.
Last week we celebrated Elliot's 2nd birthday and Ayden's 2 month birthday! Elliot is so cute, stubborn, still runs into doors or trips over things at least once a day, loves the cat and his brothers and is so sweet and gentle with Ayden even though he's usually not very careful. He's so different from Dylan and it's fun to watch his personality come out more and more!
Ayden is growing well and is still the easiest Baby, so contend (except when his tummy is bothering him) and very cute. He's smiling and responding and I'm glad he joined our family!
Here's a funny story about Dylan that I finally remembered long enough to write down somewhere: I took him and Elliot to the "supermarket" one of two places where we can buy fresh milk and dairy products and all other food items that delight our foreign heart. I just wanted to quickly run in and get some frozen chicken so they waited in the car. But the packets were all stuck together in the freezer and so it took longer than expected. When I finally got back into the car I explained why it had taken so long and that it was hard for the lady working at the store to get the chicken out of the freezer for me. And Dylan says: Yes, it needs a mens (a man) to do it. Mens are strong but ladies aren't. A mens could do it but a lady can't. :)
Photos will follow!
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Home, sweet home
Well, we've been back for a week now. The moment we got off the airplane we felt at home - familiar sights and sounds, familiar weather, familiar faces. Yet at the same time there is the thrill of seeing things as if seeing them for the first time.
We have arrived back in my favorite time of year - the days are amazing with beautiful blue skies and pleasant temperatures while the evening cools off and the nights are cold.
It's been a tiring week in some ways and it does not feel like we've been back for just 7 days. It feels like it's already been a lot longer...While we were in Germany we had various people staying at our house so our days have been filled with unpacking and reorganizing our home, looking for things that have been put in a different place and readjusting to life here. Plus, we had to catch up with all that has been happening at the Day Care Center. And have a new team to take care of. So we've been busy.
The boys have been very challenging. I'm not sure if it's due to our transition back and on top of all that having a new baby brother. They have never been openly jealous but really love him and yet it is a huge change for them and they too have to process it all. At times I forget just how much must be going on in their little heads. Elliot still can't verbalize all of it but Dylan does come up with things that give us a glimpse of what he is thinking about.
I guess us being so busy has not helped them to feel relaxed and settled and so I hope that next week will be easier and better as we ease back into a routine.
Before we left for Germany we were exhausted and often contemplated if we should return at all. The last year was difficult in many ways for all of us and I wasn't sure if I was ready to face it all again. But having time to relax was good and it helped to just be away in a totally different place for a while to regain some perspective.
Now that we're back I have had moments when I wondered why we are doing this to ourselves. But my overall feeling is that our time here is not yet over. I can't imagine living anywhere else at the moment and even though life here REALLY challenges me at the same time I love it and marvel at the opportunity I have of living here and raising a family here.
I have been encouraged by Psalm 84: "Blessed is he who sets his heart on pilgrimage...". I am learning that what really matters in life is to have an eternal perspective and that in the end it all boils down to attitude. No matter how bad things are or how difficult my kids are or how hard life is, it's a matter of my attitude towards it all and how I react to all of these things. And most of all I have to ask myself: do I trust God to give me the strength that I need and the right attitude or do I try to handle it all on my own?
And so I rejoice in another day here and another opportunity to try and live a joyful and content and meaningful life focusing on the eternal. And that is what I hope I will be able to pass on to our boys. I hope that they too will see this adventure as a privilege and that we will not only survive but thrive.
We have arrived back in my favorite time of year - the days are amazing with beautiful blue skies and pleasant temperatures while the evening cools off and the nights are cold.
It's been a tiring week in some ways and it does not feel like we've been back for just 7 days. It feels like it's already been a lot longer...While we were in Germany we had various people staying at our house so our days have been filled with unpacking and reorganizing our home, looking for things that have been put in a different place and readjusting to life here. Plus, we had to catch up with all that has been happening at the Day Care Center. And have a new team to take care of. So we've been busy.
The boys have been very challenging. I'm not sure if it's due to our transition back and on top of all that having a new baby brother. They have never been openly jealous but really love him and yet it is a huge change for them and they too have to process it all. At times I forget just how much must be going on in their little heads. Elliot still can't verbalize all of it but Dylan does come up with things that give us a glimpse of what he is thinking about.
I guess us being so busy has not helped them to feel relaxed and settled and so I hope that next week will be easier and better as we ease back into a routine.
Before we left for Germany we were exhausted and often contemplated if we should return at all. The last year was difficult in many ways for all of us and I wasn't sure if I was ready to face it all again. But having time to relax was good and it helped to just be away in a totally different place for a while to regain some perspective.
Now that we're back I have had moments when I wondered why we are doing this to ourselves. But my overall feeling is that our time here is not yet over. I can't imagine living anywhere else at the moment and even though life here REALLY challenges me at the same time I love it and marvel at the opportunity I have of living here and raising a family here.
I have been encouraged by Psalm 84: "Blessed is he who sets his heart on pilgrimage...". I am learning that what really matters in life is to have an eternal perspective and that in the end it all boils down to attitude. No matter how bad things are or how difficult my kids are or how hard life is, it's a matter of my attitude towards it all and how I react to all of these things. And most of all I have to ask myself: do I trust God to give me the strength that I need and the right attitude or do I try to handle it all on my own?
And so I rejoice in another day here and another opportunity to try and live a joyful and content and meaningful life focusing on the eternal. And that is what I hope I will be able to pass on to our boys. I hope that they too will see this adventure as a privilege and that we will not only survive but thrive.
Friday, October 9, 2009
One month with Ayden
Ayden is one month old already and I can't believe how fast this month passed by. He has been a joy from the start, very easygoing and so alert. I sometimes wonder what goes on in his little mind as he observes his surroundings. I am newly amazed at how God created this little guy so perfectly. How in just 9 months a human being is formed and knit together after starting off as tiny cells. And that God knew him by name, knew every single day of his life, before he even entered our lives.
What a huge transition he has gone through - from warm, wet, tight, dark and quiet to loud, bright, cold, wide space. And that is the transition Jesus went through when God Almighty chose to dwell among us, only his transition was even more drastic.
I am so thankful that Dylan and Elliot are enjoying their Baby brother as much as we are and that neither of them has been even a bit jealous. They have fun brining us his blankets and stuffing pacifiers in his mouth and sometimes they'll just sit next to him and gaze down on him with a happy smile on their face.
Just this morning I attended a funeral for parents who lost their babies due to a miscarriage or had a stillborn baby. Having lost our first baby in the first trimester of pregnancy I feel so much for these families and other friends who have gone through painful losses in the hope of starting a family. And so it is with extra gratefulness that I cherish these three boys that God has given us because I know that I cannot take the birth of a healthy child for granted.
Now it is down to just a little over a week until we head back. It has been good to be here and there is a lot about life overseas that I dread and am apprehensive about. And so I have had to remind myself of Psalm 23:
"The Lord is my Sheperd, I shall not want. Goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life. His rod and staff comfort me."
And so I look forward to seeing this Truth become a reality in my life over the next month and year as we go back. Hopefully others, too, will see his Presence in us.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Germany
We have been back in Germany for about three weeks now and are enjoying all the comforts this country has to offer:
- Supermarkets where you can be in and out within half an hour including all the groceries you need for the week (although we rarely manage to be in and out that quickly because there is so much to see and choose from!)
- Italian ice cream parlors!
- Beautiful parks and playgrounds and circuses and museums and lots of fun things to do
- Grandparents that are happy to babysit
- Good quality shoes and clothes for all of us
- The change in climate and food and scenery
- Sunday worship services at our church with more than just three or four others to worship with
We have had time to just relax and rest and spend time as a family which has been good as our last month or so before leaving was busy and emotionally intense. When we arrived we were just plain exhausted but are feeling more rested now.
As much as I enjoy being here I also feel once again how fragmented my life is and that essentially there is no place where I really belong. We don't REALLY belong there because our life still is so different no matter how hard we try to adjust and adapt and live like everyone else. But we also don't belong here, in Germany. And so we are in limbo most of the time.
I have been reading Psalm 84 on and off these last few weeks where it says: Blessed are those who have set their heart on pilgrimage. And in the end we are all just visitors on earth, destined for a different and eternal home. And as my heart is on pilgrimage, I guess my earthly life is as well and home is always where your heart is. As Bono said.
Now it's down to just two days till we get to meet our new little guy on Tuesday and we are excited and looking forward to this new addition. Even though I enjoy being pregnant and feeling the Baby move around inside me it will be so much better to finally KNOW him and to get to hold him!
On another note, despite the many great aspects of this country and all the comforts it is heart breaking to daily read in the newspaper how people treat each other. When we were here two years ago the reports seemed to be all about child abuse and parents killing their children. Now the stories report stabbings everywhere. Or so it seems. With more and more children being raised by the government rather than their parents and more and more violence being shown on TV what else can you expect? But it does make me sad to see this society deteriorating and to know that it's probably the same (or maybe even worse) everywhere else.
It challenges me to be the salt and light that Jesus has called all of us to be.
- Supermarkets where you can be in and out within half an hour including all the groceries you need for the week (although we rarely manage to be in and out that quickly because there is so much to see and choose from!)
- Italian ice cream parlors!
- Beautiful parks and playgrounds and circuses and museums and lots of fun things to do
- Grandparents that are happy to babysit
- Good quality shoes and clothes for all of us
- The change in climate and food and scenery
- Sunday worship services at our church with more than just three or four others to worship with
We have had time to just relax and rest and spend time as a family which has been good as our last month or so before leaving was busy and emotionally intense. When we arrived we were just plain exhausted but are feeling more rested now.
As much as I enjoy being here I also feel once again how fragmented my life is and that essentially there is no place where I really belong. We don't REALLY belong there because our life still is so different no matter how hard we try to adjust and adapt and live like everyone else. But we also don't belong here, in Germany. And so we are in limbo most of the time.
I have been reading Psalm 84 on and off these last few weeks where it says: Blessed are those who have set their heart on pilgrimage. And in the end we are all just visitors on earth, destined for a different and eternal home. And as my heart is on pilgrimage, I guess my earthly life is as well and home is always where your heart is. As Bono said.
Now it's down to just two days till we get to meet our new little guy on Tuesday and we are excited and looking forward to this new addition. Even though I enjoy being pregnant and feeling the Baby move around inside me it will be so much better to finally KNOW him and to get to hold him!
On another note, despite the many great aspects of this country and all the comforts it is heart breaking to daily read in the newspaper how people treat each other. When we were here two years ago the reports seemed to be all about child abuse and parents killing their children. Now the stories report stabbings everywhere. Or so it seems. With more and more children being raised by the government rather than their parents and more and more violence being shown on TV what else can you expect? But it does make me sad to see this society deteriorating and to know that it's probably the same (or maybe even worse) everywhere else.
It challenges me to be the salt and light that Jesus has called all of us to be.
Monday, August 3, 2009
last christmas
my father-in-law without his teeth - i'm glad we got to celebtate christmas together!
A different kind of goodbye
It's been a weird week yet again. In the midst of debriefings and short term teams and saying good bye to two interns, David's mom called us at 5 am last Wednesday with the news that David's Dad had passed away that night. In spite of his age (he would have turned 82 this year) and his health, which hadn't been good lately, it was still somewhat unexpected. We did know that he probably didn't have much longer here on earth but then you never do know. And he always regained his strength quickly, no matter how sick he had been.
The next day passed in a whirlwind as we got David booked onto a flight to Mongolia (his parents moved there two years ago) and arranged for a visa and prepared as much as possible for the time that David would be away. I often thought "why is this happening now?" when we have so much to do. But then death is never convenient and you can rarely plan ahead for times like these.
I'm glad that David got to go to say farewell to his Dad and to be with his mom and sister at this time. And I'm thankful that the boys really cooperated well for the most part and that we still have two interns with us who have been supportive and able to help me.
What really hit me is to see the way we respond to death and the way the people around us respond to it. Our friends at the travel agency, when booking the flight, were really sad for us and did their utmost to help us get a good connection and to make it possible for David to fly. Slowly, the relationships we have been building here over the years are paying off in a sense and we feel at home. Others don't know how to respond and so they change the subject or kind of not say anything. And it struck me just how hopeless they are and how much hope we have because of Christ, who is the ressurrection and life.
I have really appreciated the simple faith and trust that my parents-in-law have displayed in their lives in every circumstance. They have (and still are) lived in close communion with the Father and my father-in-law would often get up early in the morning and pray for the many people he knew and for all that was happening around the world. He was a real prayer warrior, daily lifting us up in prayer, too. He walked closely with Jesus and just trusted God to provide for everything and to take care of every need. They have both been an example to me in many ways and I am thankful to have known him. He lived a very rich life and leaves behind a legacy of faith that I hope to pass on to the boys.
Both he and my mother-in-law were really longing for Christ's return and I can just see him wandering along the streets of gold, wearing his crown, taking it all in and loving every minute of being with the God he loved and lived for. To see all the glory and to finally have reached his home.
We will miss him and this kind of loss is always hard to deal with. But we know that all is well, we know that he is with Jesus and that we will see him there when Jesus calls us home.
And that is the hope, the assurance we have that carries us through times like these.
The next day passed in a whirlwind as we got David booked onto a flight to Mongolia (his parents moved there two years ago) and arranged for a visa and prepared as much as possible for the time that David would be away. I often thought "why is this happening now?" when we have so much to do. But then death is never convenient and you can rarely plan ahead for times like these.
I'm glad that David got to go to say farewell to his Dad and to be with his mom and sister at this time. And I'm thankful that the boys really cooperated well for the most part and that we still have two interns with us who have been supportive and able to help me.
What really hit me is to see the way we respond to death and the way the people around us respond to it. Our friends at the travel agency, when booking the flight, were really sad for us and did their utmost to help us get a good connection and to make it possible for David to fly. Slowly, the relationships we have been building here over the years are paying off in a sense and we feel at home. Others don't know how to respond and so they change the subject or kind of not say anything. And it struck me just how hopeless they are and how much hope we have because of Christ, who is the ressurrection and life.
I have really appreciated the simple faith and trust that my parents-in-law have displayed in their lives in every circumstance. They have (and still are) lived in close communion with the Father and my father-in-law would often get up early in the morning and pray for the many people he knew and for all that was happening around the world. He was a real prayer warrior, daily lifting us up in prayer, too. He walked closely with Jesus and just trusted God to provide for everything and to take care of every need. They have both been an example to me in many ways and I am thankful to have known him. He lived a very rich life and leaves behind a legacy of faith that I hope to pass on to the boys.
Both he and my mother-in-law were really longing for Christ's return and I can just see him wandering along the streets of gold, wearing his crown, taking it all in and loving every minute of being with the God he loved and lived for. To see all the glory and to finally have reached his home.
We will miss him and this kind of loss is always hard to deal with. But we know that all is well, we know that he is with Jesus and that we will see him there when Jesus calls us home.
And that is the hope, the assurance we have that carries us through times like these.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Chinese hospital
We just came back from the hospital about two hours ago. The hospital was built by the Chinese and now has a cooperation with the German government who has funded training and some equipment (like a fancy new ultrasound machine which we have tested ourselves). So far, every visit there has been an experience - the rooms are dirty, the toilets stink, cockroaches run around everywhere, the family has to supply all the food and medicine and all in all you just REALLY hope to never have to go there for an emergency because you'll probably come out sicker...And this is the best hospital in this province, and maybe even in the entire North.
A friend called us asking if we could go as his sister-in-law had gone into early labor. He himself was out of town and had received a very distressed phone call from his wife, who was in tears and could not fully explain what had happened. He asked if we would go and see them and maybe pray for them, too.
When we got there, they had already lost the Baby. She had gone into early labor at 7 months (about as far along as I am) and they tried to deliver the Baby but it must have been in the wrong position as the hands came out instead of the head. So the doctor's performed a c - section but could not safe the Baby.
The couple just got married in May (I didn't realize she was pregnant when we attended the wedding ceremony) and the young husband sat there while his wife was still sleeping due to the anaesthesia. It's so hard to know what to do and say, especially when our language skills are still so limited but David did pray for him. And I'm thankful that that is something we can always offer to do for people here.
It's hard to imagine the night they will have - her waking up with a flat belly, him having to tell her that their Baby has died. Having to deal with this loss and having the physical pain of an incision to constantly remind her of this loss for the next few days and weeks. And at the same time my Baby is kicking away and is healthy and well.
It makes me feel so helpless knowing that in almost every other country a Baby born at around 30 weeks would have a pretty good chance of surviving. But here, due to a lack of knowledge and equipment and maybe just plain concern for the individual life this Baby did not make it. And I shudder to think of how often this must be the case, not only here in town where there is a hospital but even more so in the villages where the closest medical center usually is at least a day's march away...
It makes me grateful for my life - the excellent medical care I am able to enjoy and which I take for granted, the education I have had the privilege of receiving that has taught me certain common sense life skills that make it easier for me to stay healthy in the first place, and mostly a relationship with my Creator which affects every area of my life and Who promises to give me hope and a future - no matter what the circumstances might be. So that I can be comforted and be at peace.
And so we will continue to pray for this couple - for physical and emotional healing. But mostly for them to eventually find comfort and peace in the One who can give them hope and a future.
A friend called us asking if we could go as his sister-in-law had gone into early labor. He himself was out of town and had received a very distressed phone call from his wife, who was in tears and could not fully explain what had happened. He asked if we would go and see them and maybe pray for them, too.
When we got there, they had already lost the Baby. She had gone into early labor at 7 months (about as far along as I am) and they tried to deliver the Baby but it must have been in the wrong position as the hands came out instead of the head. So the doctor's performed a c - section but could not safe the Baby.
The couple just got married in May (I didn't realize she was pregnant when we attended the wedding ceremony) and the young husband sat there while his wife was still sleeping due to the anaesthesia. It's so hard to know what to do and say, especially when our language skills are still so limited but David did pray for him. And I'm thankful that that is something we can always offer to do for people here.
It's hard to imagine the night they will have - her waking up with a flat belly, him having to tell her that their Baby has died. Having to deal with this loss and having the physical pain of an incision to constantly remind her of this loss for the next few days and weeks. And at the same time my Baby is kicking away and is healthy and well.
It makes me feel so helpless knowing that in almost every other country a Baby born at around 30 weeks would have a pretty good chance of surviving. But here, due to a lack of knowledge and equipment and maybe just plain concern for the individual life this Baby did not make it. And I shudder to think of how often this must be the case, not only here in town where there is a hospital but even more so in the villages where the closest medical center usually is at least a day's march away...
It makes me grateful for my life - the excellent medical care I am able to enjoy and which I take for granted, the education I have had the privilege of receiving that has taught me certain common sense life skills that make it easier for me to stay healthy in the first place, and mostly a relationship with my Creator which affects every area of my life and Who promises to give me hope and a future - no matter what the circumstances might be. So that I can be comforted and be at peace.
And so we will continue to pray for this couple - for physical and emotional healing. But mostly for them to eventually find comfort and peace in the One who can give them hope and a future.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
I shall not want...
After a few more mornings of Dylan procrastinating at the school gate and not wanting to go in and a few mornings on which he just refused to stay at school we made the decision to keep Dylan home next year. I went right to work researching various Pre School homeschooling curriculums and have now ordered a bunch of stuff which I am looking forward to receiving and unpacking once we get to Germany! :)
I feel at peace and relieved to have finally made this decision and look forward to this new role!
For Dylan and Elliot to continue to learn the local language I hope to be more free again to have our neighbor kids come over and play. We have neglected them somewhat these last few months due to busy schedules and sheer exhaustion but they are on my heart and we are often asked when they can come and play again.
Yesterday, we said goodbye to our two Germans who spent 10 months working with us. They should have arrived in Germany by now and I hope that all the things they experienced here will be a blessing to them for many years to come.
In 10 days we say good bye to two more people and then head into our final weeks preparing for our trip to Germany.
These last few weeks have been busy with a short term team, lots of things happening at the Day Care Center, and the emotional stress that I have experienced and so we are really ready for a break and looking forward to Germany. Although I suspect our time there will be busy, too. But the change of scenery will be refreshing, I am sure of that!
I have been encouraged and reminded over and over again these last few days that I do not have to be perfect - neither as a mom nor as anybody else. God alone is perfect and I am his beloved daughter and he is fully able to redeem all my mistakes and make good to come out of it all.
And so I am feeling more at peace and more hopeful than I have these last few weeks and am thankful for all that our Father gives so that we shall not want!
I feel at peace and relieved to have finally made this decision and look forward to this new role!
For Dylan and Elliot to continue to learn the local language I hope to be more free again to have our neighbor kids come over and play. We have neglected them somewhat these last few months due to busy schedules and sheer exhaustion but they are on my heart and we are often asked when they can come and play again.
Yesterday, we said goodbye to our two Germans who spent 10 months working with us. They should have arrived in Germany by now and I hope that all the things they experienced here will be a blessing to them for many years to come.
In 10 days we say good bye to two more people and then head into our final weeks preparing for our trip to Germany.
These last few weeks have been busy with a short term team, lots of things happening at the Day Care Center, and the emotional stress that I have experienced and so we are really ready for a break and looking forward to Germany. Although I suspect our time there will be busy, too. But the change of scenery will be refreshing, I am sure of that!
I have been encouraged and reminded over and over again these last few days that I do not have to be perfect - neither as a mom nor as anybody else. God alone is perfect and I am his beloved daughter and he is fully able to redeem all my mistakes and make good to come out of it all.
And so I am feeling more at peace and more hopeful than I have these last few weeks and am thankful for all that our Father gives so that we shall not want!
Monday, July 6, 2009
things to love
There are a number of things I love about this country:
1. Addressing others as big sister, big brother, little brother, little sister, aunt or uncle. To me it creates a sense of belonging and familiarity even with strangers. And it's fun to see how it's the normal way of calling someone, even if that someone is your customer in the bank.
2. Seeing people wear pyjamas and fuzzy bunny slippers as their regular clothes and shoes.
3. The sense of community and the important role that the extended family plays. This has some downsides of course and many small family units are really struggling and are not healthy but falling apart but still I enjoy seeing the many rich relationships that people here have with neighbors and family members.
4. The beauty of nature and the abundance and diversity of fresh tropical fruits.
5. The smiles on people's faces.
6. Their enjoyment of simple things like just sitting in front of their houses for hours watching life pass by or joking around with their friends or the amusement it gives them to see us drive through a neighborhood with all four of us on a motorbike.
7. The way they are not shy about asking questions that might seem a bit personal to us coming from the West. E.g. Do you breastfeed? (Sometimes touching me right there for confirmation) Do you have a boyfriend? Did you deliver naturally? How long did you wait before you got pregnant with your second Baby? Just to mention a few...
There is a lot that is frustrating and annoying, too, but I want to leave this on a positive note. :)
In just 6 weeks we are heading to Germany and I'm very much looking forward to a change of scenery and food and people. And to meeting this little guy (yes, it's another guy! :)) who is very active and loves to kick and move around inside me.
Dylan has been doing better with Pre School but we are still so undecided about what to do next year, if it would be better to keep him home or not. Elliot would be able to join him at Pre School in May and it's so hard to know what the right decision is. But I am thankful that he is enjoying his mornings again. Still, the whole issue of friends seems to be on his mind a lot as he has been asking about some of the other families who have left or live in other parts of the country and it's hard to see how much he would like to see them at times. Having said this one of his friends is coming to see him in just a couple of weeks for just two short days. And as much as I look forward to this visit I am dreading it at the same time as it will be another goodbye for him and us to deal with.
But I guess this is just the way it is and will be for most of our lives. One reason I look forward to eternity! No more goodbyes...
On that positive note, I am thankful for a number of people who have joined us for the summer and are an encouragement and support to us. And I'm all the more thankful for four people who will come to work with us in September for 6 months to 2 years! How exciting! We will sadly miss their arrival here as we don't get back till the end of October but I'm sure they will be o.k. and coming back will be even better because of them.
So I'm thankful to be here in spite of everything that makes life here difficult.
1. Addressing others as big sister, big brother, little brother, little sister, aunt or uncle. To me it creates a sense of belonging and familiarity even with strangers. And it's fun to see how it's the normal way of calling someone, even if that someone is your customer in the bank.
2. Seeing people wear pyjamas and fuzzy bunny slippers as their regular clothes and shoes.
3. The sense of community and the important role that the extended family plays. This has some downsides of course and many small family units are really struggling and are not healthy but falling apart but still I enjoy seeing the many rich relationships that people here have with neighbors and family members.
4. The beauty of nature and the abundance and diversity of fresh tropical fruits.
5. The smiles on people's faces.
6. Their enjoyment of simple things like just sitting in front of their houses for hours watching life pass by or joking around with their friends or the amusement it gives them to see us drive through a neighborhood with all four of us on a motorbike.
7. The way they are not shy about asking questions that might seem a bit personal to us coming from the West. E.g. Do you breastfeed? (Sometimes touching me right there for confirmation) Do you have a boyfriend? Did you deliver naturally? How long did you wait before you got pregnant with your second Baby? Just to mention a few...
There is a lot that is frustrating and annoying, too, but I want to leave this on a positive note. :)
In just 6 weeks we are heading to Germany and I'm very much looking forward to a change of scenery and food and people. And to meeting this little guy (yes, it's another guy! :)) who is very active and loves to kick and move around inside me.
Dylan has been doing better with Pre School but we are still so undecided about what to do next year, if it would be better to keep him home or not. Elliot would be able to join him at Pre School in May and it's so hard to know what the right decision is. But I am thankful that he is enjoying his mornings again. Still, the whole issue of friends seems to be on his mind a lot as he has been asking about some of the other families who have left or live in other parts of the country and it's hard to see how much he would like to see them at times. Having said this one of his friends is coming to see him in just a couple of weeks for just two short days. And as much as I look forward to this visit I am dreading it at the same time as it will be another goodbye for him and us to deal with.
But I guess this is just the way it is and will be for most of our lives. One reason I look forward to eternity! No more goodbyes...
On that positive note, I am thankful for a number of people who have joined us for the summer and are an encouragement and support to us. And I'm all the more thankful for four people who will come to work with us in September for 6 months to 2 years! How exciting! We will sadly miss their arrival here as we don't get back till the end of October but I'm sure they will be o.k. and coming back will be even better because of them.
So I'm thankful to be here in spite of everything that makes life here difficult.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
Through the calm and through the storm
We've been enjoying a few days off. Drove down South on Monday and crossed the border and are staying at a nice family friendly resort with pool. And doing a lot of shopping! Our main reason for coming was to bring down the huge amount of excess luggage which our Korean friends had to leave behind when they flew down here. So now all they have is here and they are all set to leave for Canada next week. It's been good to spend some more time with them before they head to the other side of the world.
We also went for another check up at the hospital and are glad that all is well with Baby. This is the first time we actually know WHAT we're expecting before the Baby is born but will keep it a secret from the rest of the world, at least for now. :)
This is my belly with and without Elliot just last week at almost 27 weeks...
It's been good to get away for a while. These past few weeks Dylan has not wanted to go to Pre School as both of his friends left the country at the end of last month. And now he misses them and doesn't want to go to school but prefers to be home and play with his brother. Sometimes his favorite teacher Sukim can get him to go in but on the days when she hasn't been around I've just taken him back home again because I couldn't stand the thought of forcing him to be somewhere he just doesn't want to be.
Living overseas I knew this would be an issue but I wasn't anticipating it to be so early on. I didn't expect that he would have to say goodbye to so many friends by the time he turns 3. Or that it would hit me so hard as well. But seeing him so lonely has been hard for me. A lot of the tears I have shed I blame on the pregnancy hormones that have taken over but some of the grief I feel I probably feel as much for myself as for Dylan. Looking back I have felt lonely most of my life and I hate that we have put Dylan into the same position by the life we have chosen.
But storms and difficult times are all part of life and "I can see a light at the end for the heart that holds on".
As we have thought and talked about how to handle this situation and weighed our options - keeping him at home at least till Elliot is old enough for Pre School, just teaching them both at home already, hiring someone else to teach them,.... - I've just been overwhelmed with a sense of helplessness. Not knowing what the best decision is and not having someone older and wiser and who has been through these choices to ask for advice has been hard. Last Fall we were at a conference and one of the seminar leaders said that God loves our children so much more than we ever could and so I hold on to that thought and hope that Dylan will get through this storm and be stronger for it. And I hope I will survive as well!
We also went for another check up at the hospital and are glad that all is well with Baby. This is the first time we actually know WHAT we're expecting before the Baby is born but will keep it a secret from the rest of the world, at least for now. :)
This is my belly with and without Elliot just last week at almost 27 weeks...It's been good to get away for a while. These past few weeks Dylan has not wanted to go to Pre School as both of his friends left the country at the end of last month. And now he misses them and doesn't want to go to school but prefers to be home and play with his brother. Sometimes his favorite teacher Sukim can get him to go in but on the days when she hasn't been around I've just taken him back home again because I couldn't stand the thought of forcing him to be somewhere he just doesn't want to be.
Living overseas I knew this would be an issue but I wasn't anticipating it to be so early on. I didn't expect that he would have to say goodbye to so many friends by the time he turns 3. Or that it would hit me so hard as well. But seeing him so lonely has been hard for me. A lot of the tears I have shed I blame on the pregnancy hormones that have taken over but some of the grief I feel I probably feel as much for myself as for Dylan. Looking back I have felt lonely most of my life and I hate that we have put Dylan into the same position by the life we have chosen.
But storms and difficult times are all part of life and "I can see a light at the end for the heart that holds on".
As we have thought and talked about how to handle this situation and weighed our options - keeping him at home at least till Elliot is old enough for Pre School, just teaching them both at home already, hiring someone else to teach them,.... - I've just been overwhelmed with a sense of helplessness. Not knowing what the best decision is and not having someone older and wiser and who has been through these choices to ask for advice has been hard. Last Fall we were at a conference and one of the seminar leaders said that God loves our children so much more than we ever could and so I hold on to that thought and hope that Dylan will get through this storm and be stronger for it. And I hope I will survive as well!
Monday, June 8, 2009
what can happen in the space of three years
Dylan is three years and three months old now and has been challenging in many ways. His favorite response is "No" to everything we want him to do (except when it comes to eating ice cream), his favorite toy is whatever Elliot is playing with at any given time of the day and he loves doing what we explicitly told him NOT to do just seconds before.
Friends of ours had a Baby boy three months ago and he is the most content and happiest little guy I have ever met - smiling and cooing and just delightful! But then, that's what people used to say about Dylan when he was just three months old, too. I still remember those days when he was happy and content and smiled a lot and I look at him now - a little man with a very strong will and who knows exactly what he wants and who really tests my patience on some days.
I must admit I've lost my temper a lot in the last few weeks and I always regret it right afterwards - or, at the latest, once I see Dylan sleeping peacefully in his bed after a long and trying day. But inbetween there are good days and many little things that remind me of why I love this kid.
And I do love him to pieces! No matter how often he brings out the worst in me.
It's been a good picture of how God loves me - no matter how trying I am, no matter how often I lose my cool, no matter how many mistakes I make, he still loves me faithfully and never loses his temper. And I never bring out the worst in him because he is only good and there is no evil in him. How amazing is that!
And so I strive to cherish even this season with Dylan because it IS just a season and will pass all too quickly. And with the help of my perfect Father I hope and pray that Dylan will look back on this time in his life and remember only happy days!
Friends of ours had a Baby boy three months ago and he is the most content and happiest little guy I have ever met - smiling and cooing and just delightful! But then, that's what people used to say about Dylan when he was just three months old, too. I still remember those days when he was happy and content and smiled a lot and I look at him now - a little man with a very strong will and who knows exactly what he wants and who really tests my patience on some days.
I must admit I've lost my temper a lot in the last few weeks and I always regret it right afterwards - or, at the latest, once I see Dylan sleeping peacefully in his bed after a long and trying day. But inbetween there are good days and many little things that remind me of why I love this kid.
And I do love him to pieces! No matter how often he brings out the worst in me.
It's been a good picture of how God loves me - no matter how trying I am, no matter how often I lose my cool, no matter how many mistakes I make, he still loves me faithfully and never loses his temper. And I never bring out the worst in him because he is only good and there is no evil in him. How amazing is that!
And so I strive to cherish even this season with Dylan because it IS just a season and will pass all too quickly. And with the help of my perfect Father I hope and pray that Dylan will look back on this time in his life and remember only happy days!
Saturday, May 23, 2009
marriage
We spent Thursday and Friday talking with the parents of one of our Day Care Center kids. The mom had asked us to talk to her husband who had left her two months ago. She wanted him back and wanted to know why he had left and if he was intending on coming back.
So first we met with her to hear her side of the story and then asked him to come to hear his side.
On Friday we had to sadly realize that he is not willing to come back and wants a divorce saying his wife won't change and that they have no future together.
Many of their problems seem to be due to cultural differences as they are both from a different ethnic group but a lot of it just comes from normal relationship difficulties that everyone experiences - different expectations and ways of seeing things, different personality issues, different thoughts on how to deal with finances,...
Most of these are things we are lucky enough to know about and think about and consider before we get married. We have marriage preparation weekends and talks with our pastor before we get married. But here they just don't know. And don't have anyone who can help them think through things like this. And don't know how to deal with the challenges other than walk away and get a divorce.
Hearing them both talk about their marriage I have thought about how vulnerable marriages and families are. Here there are so many sad stories of heartache, of unfaithfulness, of husbands (and wives) leaving their families never to be heard of again. I have been realizing that a family unit and the unit between a husband and wife really is the basic unit of society and that if we have strong families we have a strong country and society.
But it's hard to have a happy and fulfilled marriage and takes a lot of work, a lot of talking, a lot of compromise. I'm thankful when I think of the many great examples we have that show us what marriage can be like. And not only that but we have Jesus and the daily opportunity to come to him for forgiveness and strength and joy and understanding - everything that we need to live godly lives, including godly relationships.
And then I look at the people around me. There are so many odds against their having a happy marriage - cultural differences, a culture that doesn't openly talk about feelings, strong family ties and influence that play a huge role even after marriage,...a lot to deal with.
I am thankful for David and the five years we have been married. And I am thankful for the help we have received to start off the right way even though we are far from perfect. But I guess we are perfectly happy. I am thankful to know that David is committed to me through the good and the bad days. And I am thankful that we have Jesus to help us through the difficult times.
I hope and pray that we will have more and more opportunities to speak into peoples' lives and to demonstrate what marriage can be like in spite of all the imperfections.
So here's to the future and our next five years together!
So first we met with her to hear her side of the story and then asked him to come to hear his side.
On Friday we had to sadly realize that he is not willing to come back and wants a divorce saying his wife won't change and that they have no future together.
Many of their problems seem to be due to cultural differences as they are both from a different ethnic group but a lot of it just comes from normal relationship difficulties that everyone experiences - different expectations and ways of seeing things, different personality issues, different thoughts on how to deal with finances,...
Most of these are things we are lucky enough to know about and think about and consider before we get married. We have marriage preparation weekends and talks with our pastor before we get married. But here they just don't know. And don't have anyone who can help them think through things like this. And don't know how to deal with the challenges other than walk away and get a divorce.
Hearing them both talk about their marriage I have thought about how vulnerable marriages and families are. Here there are so many sad stories of heartache, of unfaithfulness, of husbands (and wives) leaving their families never to be heard of again. I have been realizing that a family unit and the unit between a husband and wife really is the basic unit of society and that if we have strong families we have a strong country and society.
But it's hard to have a happy and fulfilled marriage and takes a lot of work, a lot of talking, a lot of compromise. I'm thankful when I think of the many great examples we have that show us what marriage can be like. And not only that but we have Jesus and the daily opportunity to come to him for forgiveness and strength and joy and understanding - everything that we need to live godly lives, including godly relationships.
And then I look at the people around me. There are so many odds against their having a happy marriage - cultural differences, a culture that doesn't openly talk about feelings, strong family ties and influence that play a huge role even after marriage,...a lot to deal with.
I am thankful for David and the five years we have been married. And I am thankful for the help we have received to start off the right way even though we are far from perfect. But I guess we are perfectly happy. I am thankful to know that David is committed to me through the good and the bad days. And I am thankful that we have Jesus to help us through the difficult times.
I hope and pray that we will have more and more opportunities to speak into peoples' lives and to demonstrate what marriage can be like in spite of all the imperfections.
So here's to the future and our next five years together!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
more pictures
Elliot painting
Look at me!
Porch picnic
Dylan bumped his head and needed something to cool it.
rainy season
Rainy season is in full swing now which means that the weather is hot and humid with temperatures up to 42 degrees Celsius. It rains almost once daily and in contrast to the last few rainy seasons that I have experienced the rain actually cools down the temperature and brings some relieve.
We wanted to have a picnic in our yard for dinner the other day but our plans changed due to the downpour so we had on the porch instead. Thought it's time for some updated pictures of the boys anyway!
To show a little bit what rainy season is like - this is a big tub that is adjacent to our porch and which probably served as a water storage. We filled it up with dirt and planted some roses and other flowers in it. If you look closely you can see the amount of water that was pouring down at that time.
More rain, it's hard to convey.
Elliot sitting on the kitchen counter eating lychees while I prepare lunch. One of his favorite activities at the moment. It's lychee season!! And shows in his digestive system. :)
Dylan after his bath. He came running and said "Take a picture of me!"
We wanted to have a picnic in our yard for dinner the other day but our plans changed due to the downpour so we had on the porch instead. Thought it's time for some updated pictures of the boys anyway!
To show a little bit what rainy season is like - this is a big tub that is adjacent to our porch and which probably served as a water storage. We filled it up with dirt and planted some roses and other flowers in it. If you look closely you can see the amount of water that was pouring down at that time.
More rain, it's hard to convey.
Elliot sitting on the kitchen counter eating lychees while I prepare lunch. One of his favorite activities at the moment. It's lychee season!! And shows in his digestive system. :)
Dylan after his bath. He came running and said "Take a picture of me!"
Friday, May 8, 2009
growing
I met a lady from New Zealand on the street the other day. At the end of our conversation she asked me when the Baby was due. I said in September.
"Well that's a long way off. Are you having twins?" was her reply, obviously alluding to what she thinks is a big belly..."No, it's my third" was my curt answer.
But acutally I'm happy to be looking more and more pregnant! :) Throughout my pregnancies I have been worried and anxious and so now that I can feel Baby kicking around more and more I am starting to relax although my fears of losing this Baby during pregnancy will never fully go away. Part of it is due to miscarrying our first Baby before we had Dylan, an experience which shattered my naive approach to pregnancy and childbearing. Now I don't take anything for granted, even less when I glimpse the grief and heartache others have faced losing not just one Baby but miscarrying every Baby they have conceived or losing the Baby in their last month of pregnancy.
I'll never understand though I embrace these losses as part of life and a chance to draw closer to our God. And I rejoice over every kick and item of clothing that no longer fits!
So here is a picture of my belly, taken yesterday at almost 21 weeks:
"Well that's a long way off. Are you having twins?" was her reply, obviously alluding to what she thinks is a big belly..."No, it's my third" was my curt answer.
But acutally I'm happy to be looking more and more pregnant! :) Throughout my pregnancies I have been worried and anxious and so now that I can feel Baby kicking around more and more I am starting to relax although my fears of losing this Baby during pregnancy will never fully go away. Part of it is due to miscarrying our first Baby before we had Dylan, an experience which shattered my naive approach to pregnancy and childbearing. Now I don't take anything for granted, even less when I glimpse the grief and heartache others have faced losing not just one Baby but miscarrying every Baby they have conceived or losing the Baby in their last month of pregnancy.
I'll never understand though I embrace these losses as part of life and a chance to draw closer to our God. And I rejoice over every kick and item of clothing that no longer fits!
So here is a picture of my belly, taken yesterday at almost 21 weeks:
Monday, April 27, 2009
heat wave
April has been busy with many visitors and of course Easter! Dylan was on vacation for two weeks (his first day back to Pre School was today ) and we closed the Day Care Center for a week as well. Easter is not celebrated here but each year our holiday coincides with the New Year here. To celebrate New Year there is a big parade during which the main Buddha is carried through town from his usual temple to the oldest temple where he remains for a while. There people can go and wash him with special water thus washing away their own sins.
Another main aspect of New Year is a huge waterfight with people standing along the side of the road splashing everyone who passes by or driving around on the bed of a truck doing the same to those standing at the side of the road. In the past, it wasn't so much a pouring of water as a light sprinkling which was meant both as a blessing but also as a washing away of sins. Now it's mainly just fun. The streets turn into a party zone, way too much alcohol is consumed and at the end they go back to the uncertainty of their future, not knowing if their sins really are gone now.
It is at this time of the year that I am starkly reminded just how hollow and futile their faith is. As we celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus - the ultimate sacrifice - and celebrate that our sins really are completely forgiven and taken away through that sacrifice they do all they can to redeem themselves. They have to offer their own sacrifices every day because they do not know that Jesus has already paid the price, once and for all. It saddens me to see them strive for peace and joy and forgiveness, all out of their own strength and long to share the truth that will set them free to embrace life and to experience true joy and peace.
We have been invited to some of the New Year celebrations at neighbors' houses, a special occassion where cotton strings are tied to your wrist while a blessing is said. A great opportunity for us to bless them in Jesus' name and "tie" His Spirit to them and their household.
On a somewhat lighter note, this past week has been HOT! It's the kind of heat that makes you want to lie in an air conditioned room all day because all your energy has been drained from you. The kind of heat that makes you break out in a sweat just sitting in the shade. The kind of heat that leaves you thirsty no matter how much water you drink. The kind of heat that feels like you're walking through walls of hot air that is being blown at you from giant radiators. The kind of heat where not even riding a motorbike or evening brings relief because it's just everywhere and unrelentless.
I was riding through these walls of heat on our motorbike with Dylan a few days ago and was astounded by the amount of vehicles that are on the road now. It was 4 pm, rushhour, as schools and offices closed for the day and it's the time of day I least like to maneuver through traffic. Bikes and motorbikes packed with students, pick up trucks and other cars all driving somewhat erratically and not abiding to any traffic rules that I know. I remember how empty the streets were just 4 years ago when we first visited this town before moving here. It's all part of the affluence that has come through the promotion of tourism, part of the development that most people here long for. At the same time there are negative side effects of development aswell. We see more and more of the original culture disappearing and a generation growing up so differently from their parents which influences their attitudes and values.
Recently, a friend told us how before people would help each other but now all they think about is money. And how sad he is that this part of his society and culture has changed. And so I hope that with all that we do we will be able to pass on the values of the crucified Christ to this next generation so that with all the changes and development happening around them they will still be willing to help without thinking of what they can get out of it. And I hope that my attitude will be the same, will be that of Christ, who gave without asking for anything in return.
Another main aspect of New Year is a huge waterfight with people standing along the side of the road splashing everyone who passes by or driving around on the bed of a truck doing the same to those standing at the side of the road. In the past, it wasn't so much a pouring of water as a light sprinkling which was meant both as a blessing but also as a washing away of sins. Now it's mainly just fun. The streets turn into a party zone, way too much alcohol is consumed and at the end they go back to the uncertainty of their future, not knowing if their sins really are gone now.
It is at this time of the year that I am starkly reminded just how hollow and futile their faith is. As we celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus - the ultimate sacrifice - and celebrate that our sins really are completely forgiven and taken away through that sacrifice they do all they can to redeem themselves. They have to offer their own sacrifices every day because they do not know that Jesus has already paid the price, once and for all. It saddens me to see them strive for peace and joy and forgiveness, all out of their own strength and long to share the truth that will set them free to embrace life and to experience true joy and peace.
We have been invited to some of the New Year celebrations at neighbors' houses, a special occassion where cotton strings are tied to your wrist while a blessing is said. A great opportunity for us to bless them in Jesus' name and "tie" His Spirit to them and their household.
On a somewhat lighter note, this past week has been HOT! It's the kind of heat that makes you want to lie in an air conditioned room all day because all your energy has been drained from you. The kind of heat that makes you break out in a sweat just sitting in the shade. The kind of heat that leaves you thirsty no matter how much water you drink. The kind of heat that feels like you're walking through walls of hot air that is being blown at you from giant radiators. The kind of heat where not even riding a motorbike or evening brings relief because it's just everywhere and unrelentless.
I was riding through these walls of heat on our motorbike with Dylan a few days ago and was astounded by the amount of vehicles that are on the road now. It was 4 pm, rushhour, as schools and offices closed for the day and it's the time of day I least like to maneuver through traffic. Bikes and motorbikes packed with students, pick up trucks and other cars all driving somewhat erratically and not abiding to any traffic rules that I know. I remember how empty the streets were just 4 years ago when we first visited this town before moving here. It's all part of the affluence that has come through the promotion of tourism, part of the development that most people here long for. At the same time there are negative side effects of development aswell. We see more and more of the original culture disappearing and a generation growing up so differently from their parents which influences their attitudes and values.
Recently, a friend told us how before people would help each other but now all they think about is money. And how sad he is that this part of his society and culture has changed. And so I hope that with all that we do we will be able to pass on the values of the crucified Christ to this next generation so that with all the changes and development happening around them they will still be willing to help without thinking of what they can get out of it. And I hope that my attitude will be the same, will be that of Christ, who gave without asking for anything in return.
Friday, April 3, 2009
things that mystify
As mentioned before there is a lot that about this country that leaves my mystified. This includes crazy and partly erratic traffic behavior, drinking way too much beer at all hours of day due to peer pressure, and eating dogs as food.
Today we said goodbye to our dear friends from Korea who are presently transitioning on to Canada. We had offered to take them to the airport and so this morning we went to their house to pick them up. Their landlord came by to pick up the keys and collect money for last month's electricity bill. After we had all piled into our truck and Joy and Isaac had squeezed into the back seat (they had A LOT of luggage!!!) their landlord came and asked them about their dogs, if they were meant to stay at the house.
Now, Joy and Isaac have a bit of a history with dogs. In the course of two years of living here they have had 6 dogs and 7 puppies. 3 dogs were still alive this morning and 2 of the 7 puppies stayed alive and were passed on to other families. Another Korean family had taken their Golden Retriever and their landlord had offered to take the two other dogs of the local variety. They had given him dogs before which had ended up on his grill so this time, before agreeing to let him have their last 2 dogs, they asked him explicitly NOT to eat these dogs. Which he agreed to not do.
Alas, this morning, moments before driving away, he asked about the dogs and again Isaac implored him to please not eat the dogs. To which the landlord replied with the hugest smile, a handshake and "Thank you, thank you." So I guess that was the last we saw of those two furry friends.
Apart from the culinary and other challenges I have realized once again how much I love living here. The beauty of the river, jungle, mountains and rice fields, the beauty of the people. Behind the beauty there are a lot of fears and hurts and needs and emotions that cannot be voiced. And so I long to bring Christ's peace and beauty to this nation so that they might experience the freedom he gives and joy that knows no limit.
Today we said goodbye to our dear friends from Korea who are presently transitioning on to Canada. We had offered to take them to the airport and so this morning we went to their house to pick them up. Their landlord came by to pick up the keys and collect money for last month's electricity bill. After we had all piled into our truck and Joy and Isaac had squeezed into the back seat (they had A LOT of luggage!!!) their landlord came and asked them about their dogs, if they were meant to stay at the house.
Now, Joy and Isaac have a bit of a history with dogs. In the course of two years of living here they have had 6 dogs and 7 puppies. 3 dogs were still alive this morning and 2 of the 7 puppies stayed alive and were passed on to other families. Another Korean family had taken their Golden Retriever and their landlord had offered to take the two other dogs of the local variety. They had given him dogs before which had ended up on his grill so this time, before agreeing to let him have their last 2 dogs, they asked him explicitly NOT to eat these dogs. Which he agreed to not do.
Alas, this morning, moments before driving away, he asked about the dogs and again Isaac implored him to please not eat the dogs. To which the landlord replied with the hugest smile, a handshake and "Thank you, thank you." So I guess that was the last we saw of those two furry friends.
Apart from the culinary and other challenges I have realized once again how much I love living here. The beauty of the river, jungle, mountains and rice fields, the beauty of the people. Behind the beauty there are a lot of fears and hurts and needs and emotions that cannot be voiced. And so I long to bring Christ's peace and beauty to this nation so that they might experience the freedom he gives and joy that knows no limit.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
the miracle of life
Life is pretty amazing! Some days are great, other days are horrible, but most days I seem to just plod along, going through routines, taking care of everyday things. Nothing amazing or miraculous about those days and yet every day is a gift and is a miracle in itself.
These days the miracle of life takes on a new meaning once again as our third Baby is growing inside of me. What a miracle and privilege it is to be blessed to experience the beginning of a new life in such an intimate and invading way. It makes me glad to be a woman and a mother.
We have just spent 10 days in the capital city running a few errands like collecting a new passport for Elliot and applying for new visas. So now we are officially tourists again! Everything always takes longer than expected which it did this time round, too, but at least we got to see our friends' new Baby boy who is just about 2 weeks old now. After a lot of heartache God has blessed them with this child and placed him into their family and now they are in the last stages of the adoption process. Again the miracle of life!
There is a lot that mystifies me about this country. Driving down to the capital and back again I was once again struck by how much time people spend just doing seemingly nothing. It's not that they're lazy but that there just isn't anything for them to do. This is more true for those living in the numerous villages that we pass through. Their lives are determined by the seasons and by planting crops and harvesting them. And when all the work connected to growing crops is done what else is there to do but do nothing?
But even in the city I am astounded by the number of people just standing at their windows watching the street scene below or sitting in front of their houses. I guess a lot of it has to do with the high priority they place on community.
It makes me wonder about what my values and priorities are. I wouldn't say that busyness is a value or a priority but I can't imagine spending so much time just doing nothing because there is always something to do - a book to read, a letter to write,...
Interesting how life just influences us and makes us who we are. Again the miracle of life - beauty in diversity!
These days the miracle of life takes on a new meaning once again as our third Baby is growing inside of me. What a miracle and privilege it is to be blessed to experience the beginning of a new life in such an intimate and invading way. It makes me glad to be a woman and a mother.
We have just spent 10 days in the capital city running a few errands like collecting a new passport for Elliot and applying for new visas. So now we are officially tourists again! Everything always takes longer than expected which it did this time round, too, but at least we got to see our friends' new Baby boy who is just about 2 weeks old now. After a lot of heartache God has blessed them with this child and placed him into their family and now they are in the last stages of the adoption process. Again the miracle of life!
There is a lot that mystifies me about this country. Driving down to the capital and back again I was once again struck by how much time people spend just doing seemingly nothing. It's not that they're lazy but that there just isn't anything for them to do. This is more true for those living in the numerous villages that we pass through. Their lives are determined by the seasons and by planting crops and harvesting them. And when all the work connected to growing crops is done what else is there to do but do nothing?
But even in the city I am astounded by the number of people just standing at their windows watching the street scene below or sitting in front of their houses. I guess a lot of it has to do with the high priority they place on community.
It makes me wonder about what my values and priorities are. I wouldn't say that busyness is a value or a priority but I can't imagine spending so much time just doing nothing because there is always something to do - a book to read, a letter to write,...
Interesting how life just influences us and makes us who we are. Again the miracle of life - beauty in diversity!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Dylan's birthday and other pictures 1
Keep pressing on
Life has been crazy since the new year started so that I have struggled finding time to update this blog. In January we took over a Day Care Center and that has occupied much of our time - moving to a new location, hiring new staff, trying to SLOWLY change routines and old habits (SLOWLY is the key word in this beautiful country) and taking in new kids.
As of next week we will have 30 kids ages 0-3 which is our maximum, so that's exciting. But it has also been challenging to develop new daily routines and schedules for us as a family. We are glad that David was able to move out of English teaching. Having him gone in the evenings, well, actually almost all day on three days a week was strenous and we are thankful to have more flexibility again. Having said that, this is a huge task that we have taken on and there are many days when I wish I could just be a normal stay-at-home mom! And I'm praying for someone to come soon and take over most of the responsibility for the Day Care Center from me.
At the same time I am learning a lot about living in this country, learning new words as I do my best to train the staff and learning to rely on God's joy to be my strength for and in everything.
Elliot enjoys coming along to the Day Care Center and playing with the other kids.
Other than that we celebrated Dylan's 3rd birthday on Februrary 18th! The poor guy could not go to Pre School that week as he had conjunctivitis so after his eyes had healed up we brought cupcakes to school and celebrated his birthday with his friends there. It's been a while since I have seen such joy and delight in his face and that was special to see! He's a great kid and I can't imagine what life would be like without him. And I can't believe that three years have already passed since he entered into our lives. I am thankful for both my boys in spite of the way they manage to bring out the worst in me and in spite of the way their presence disrupts just about everything about my life - my sleep, my comforts, my conversations, my meals, my reading, my studying, my ideas about how I might like to spend my time,...You get the picture.
But their hugs and cuddles, joy and laughter totally make up for all of that and they are truly a blessing.
This month we will once again have to say goodbye to our good Korean friends who will be moving on. It's hard, having to let go of people that have become a part of your life and who have helped you view life from a totally different perspective. That leaves us with just one couple here that we consider our friends and life keeps getting lonelier.
I have struggled often this past year with living here, thinking I have given up on so much and that life anywhere else would be so much easier and more comfortable. But I know that we are in the right place and that life was never meant to be comfortable. And little things througout each day remind me of why I am here and what I love about being here. So we keep pressing on!
As of next week we will have 30 kids ages 0-3 which is our maximum, so that's exciting. But it has also been challenging to develop new daily routines and schedules for us as a family. We are glad that David was able to move out of English teaching. Having him gone in the evenings, well, actually almost all day on three days a week was strenous and we are thankful to have more flexibility again. Having said that, this is a huge task that we have taken on and there are many days when I wish I could just be a normal stay-at-home mom! And I'm praying for someone to come soon and take over most of the responsibility for the Day Care Center from me.
At the same time I am learning a lot about living in this country, learning new words as I do my best to train the staff and learning to rely on God's joy to be my strength for and in everything.
Elliot enjoys coming along to the Day Care Center and playing with the other kids.
Other than that we celebrated Dylan's 3rd birthday on Februrary 18th! The poor guy could not go to Pre School that week as he had conjunctivitis so after his eyes had healed up we brought cupcakes to school and celebrated his birthday with his friends there. It's been a while since I have seen such joy and delight in his face and that was special to see! He's a great kid and I can't imagine what life would be like without him. And I can't believe that three years have already passed since he entered into our lives. I am thankful for both my boys in spite of the way they manage to bring out the worst in me and in spite of the way their presence disrupts just about everything about my life - my sleep, my comforts, my conversations, my meals, my reading, my studying, my ideas about how I might like to spend my time,...You get the picture.
But their hugs and cuddles, joy and laughter totally make up for all of that and they are truly a blessing.
This month we will once again have to say goodbye to our good Korean friends who will be moving on. It's hard, having to let go of people that have become a part of your life and who have helped you view life from a totally different perspective. That leaves us with just one couple here that we consider our friends and life keeps getting lonelier.
I have struggled often this past year with living here, thinking I have given up on so much and that life anywhere else would be so much easier and more comfortable. But I know that we are in the right place and that life was never meant to be comfortable. And little things througout each day remind me of why I am here and what I love about being here. So we keep pressing on!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
books read in 2008
Last year, I decided for first time to keep a list of all the books a read in a year. So here it is:
1. Cenntenial by James Michener
2. Bringing up boys by James Dobson
3. All of the Little House on the Prairie books by Laura Ingalls Wilder
4. For the Children's Sake by Susan Macaulay Schaeffer
5. The urban halo by Craig Greenfield
6. Grace - based parenting by Tim Kimmel
7. Marley and Me by John Grogan
8. Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
9. A House like a lotus by Madeleine L'Engle
10. A Severed Wasp by Madeleine L'Engle
11. A small rain by Madeleine L'Engle
12. The Signature of Jesus by Brennan Manning
13. The Edge of Tomorrow by Dr. Tom Dooley
14. Seide by Allessandro Barrico
15. You will see Hoopoes by Lenna Lidstone
16. The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver
17. The Appeal by John Grisham
18. The Shack by William P. Young
19. The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck
20. Women of Silk by Gail Tsukiyama
And I started reading (but up till now haven't finished yet):
1. The Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett
2. The Covenant by James Michener
3. The Persecutor by Sergei Kourdakov
4. Vita by Melania G. Mazzucco
5. The passionate Edge by Gloria Kempton
6. Wenn der Löwe brüllt by Hermann Koch
20 books in 12 months is not too bad I guess considering the two little guys that keep me on my toes! :)
1. Cenntenial by James Michener
2. Bringing up boys by James Dobson
3. All of the Little House on the Prairie books by Laura Ingalls Wilder
4. For the Children's Sake by Susan Macaulay Schaeffer
5. The urban halo by Craig Greenfield
6. Grace - based parenting by Tim Kimmel
7. Marley and Me by John Grogan
8. Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
9. A House like a lotus by Madeleine L'Engle
10. A Severed Wasp by Madeleine L'Engle
11. A small rain by Madeleine L'Engle
12. The Signature of Jesus by Brennan Manning
13. The Edge of Tomorrow by Dr. Tom Dooley
14. Seide by Allessandro Barrico
15. You will see Hoopoes by Lenna Lidstone
16. The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver
17. The Appeal by John Grisham
18. The Shack by William P. Young
19. The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck
20. Women of Silk by Gail Tsukiyama
And I started reading (but up till now haven't finished yet):
1. The Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett
2. The Covenant by James Michener
3. The Persecutor by Sergei Kourdakov
4. Vita by Melania G. Mazzucco
5. The passionate Edge by Gloria Kempton
6. Wenn der Löwe brüllt by Hermann Koch
20 books in 12 months is not too bad I guess considering the two little guys that keep me on my toes! :)
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