Originally posted on WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2007
language
ok... so i have just finished my language lesson! this is usually two hours twice a week when i feel like my brain is being hit with a hammer! it has been a long time since i have really used my brain. it is having trouble kicking back into gear!! i have a helper come twice a week and the other days i study on my own.
here is the info on this language...
it is impossible! it is a suffix language which means that you simply have certain suffixes that you add to the words to make it plural, possessive, a preposition, conjugated, etc! you can conjugate nouns and verbs. there are at least 657 million suffixes (i counted!!). so, one entire sentence could be one very long word! in theory, the length of a word is endless! and the suffix you add changes the way the syllables are broken up which in turn changes the way the word is said!! to top it off, the vowels are incredibly short. i do think that it is physically impossible for a southern woman to make her vowels that short!
so, learning this language is proving much harder than i had thought it would be. but, i am so determined!! so by this time next year i will easily be able to say...
Çekoslovakyalılastıramadıklarımızdanmısınız?
(43 letters, 18 syllables)
...and know what it means!
POSTED BY ELIZABETH AT 3:57 PM
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Belated
I found these pictures today on my camera, and I thought I'd share. They are from the last day of school.
On the last day of school the entire school (middle and elementary) assembles in the schoolyard for a little bit. The classes stand at attention in their lines (a daily routine). All sorts of people have things to say, and they make an especially big deal for the first graders since they learned to read.
After the assembly, the elementary classes are dismissed to their classrooms where they are presented with their report cards one by one. As always there is a lot of pomp and circumstance.
Here is Callie with her best friend Dilara.
This is Noah's classroom. The kids are sitting in their desks waiting to receive their report cards. Its a tense time!
This is Noah, Callie, Noah's best friend Baran, Noah's teacher, and me together. It was a little sad because Noah will not be returning to this school since we moved. In elementary school you have the same teacher and classmates for all 5 years. So everyone was pretty sad to see Noah go.
Can I just tell you that once again Noah got all 5's (just like all A's). To be honest, I was surprised because some of his papers were mediocre throughout the year. I cannot tell you how proud I am of this kid! He has weathered this transition like a champ. He has embraced the culture and language and thrived in it. To get all A's is awesome, but to do so in your second language... AMAZING!!! He is outgoing and friendly, rough and tumble. Don't bother to say anything bad about his favorite soccer team or he will trash talk you in any language! He is a fanatic!
Callie also did great. She really thrived this year in Kindergarden. She made lots of friends, was a leader in her classroom, and probably speaks the new language better than the rest of us. All of her classmates adored her. She makes friends so easily! She received a report card (although a little different) and got all "very goods." Since her class did so many productions we have really seen her become a lot less shy on stage. In fact, she loves to perform. She is still quite shy with adults and will hardly speak to them. They assume that she doesn't speak the language until they hear her motor-mouthing away with her peers!
Noah and Callie have done such an amazing job. They are so flexible, and have really overcome a lot. They are thriving here in all areas, and we could not be more proud of them!!!
On the last day of school the entire school (middle and elementary) assembles in the schoolyard for a little bit. The classes stand at attention in their lines (a daily routine). All sorts of people have things to say, and they make an especially big deal for the first graders since they learned to read.
After the assembly, the elementary classes are dismissed to their classrooms where they are presented with their report cards one by one. As always there is a lot of pomp and circumstance.
Here is Callie with her best friend Dilara.
This is Noah's classroom. The kids are sitting in their desks waiting to receive their report cards. Its a tense time!
This is Noah, Callie, Noah's best friend Baran, Noah's teacher, and me together. It was a little sad because Noah will not be returning to this school since we moved. In elementary school you have the same teacher and classmates for all 5 years. So everyone was pretty sad to see Noah go.
Can I just tell you that once again Noah got all 5's (just like all A's). To be honest, I was surprised because some of his papers were mediocre throughout the year. I cannot tell you how proud I am of this kid! He has weathered this transition like a champ. He has embraced the culture and language and thrived in it. To get all A's is awesome, but to do so in your second language... AMAZING!!! He is outgoing and friendly, rough and tumble. Don't bother to say anything bad about his favorite soccer team or he will trash talk you in any language! He is a fanatic!
Callie also did great. She really thrived this year in Kindergarden. She made lots of friends, was a leader in her classroom, and probably speaks the new language better than the rest of us. All of her classmates adored her. She makes friends so easily! She received a report card (although a little different) and got all "very goods." Since her class did so many productions we have really seen her become a lot less shy on stage. In fact, she loves to perform. She is still quite shy with adults and will hardly speak to them. They assume that she doesn't speak the language until they hear her motor-mouthing away with her peers!
Noah and Callie have done such an amazing job. They are so flexible, and have really overcome a lot. They are thriving here in all areas, and we could not be more proud of them!!!
Originally posted on MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2007
A day in the life
so, i've finally getting this blog thing figured out. it is hard to get in the habit of posting things on a regular basis. and, i am having a hard time getting my pictures to upload. i know that pictures and video will be far more interesting than anything i have to say!
my friend asked me what a typical day was like. so i figured that was great blog fodder! here it goes...
we wake up whenever the kids get up. that is anywhere between 6:45 and 8:00. the kids usually watch a little tv. we have breakfast- bananas, yogurt, bread, cheese, cereal, etc. Justin usually feeds the kids breakfast while i get ready. then we switch. he leaves for work at about 9:00. he catches the bus just down the street from our apartment complex. the bus is crowded and there is quite a bit of traffic, so his commute takes about an hour. his work day consists of study, errands- shopping for things we need, meting with people, artisans lane work, and language lessons.
the kids are in after noon school. so our mornings are flexible. noah usually has homework to do. and, i have chores like laundry, dishes, etc. lucy goes down for her nap at 10:00. we have to start lunch at 11:30 because it takes forever!! after lunch, the kids have to change and get ready for school. noah wears a uniform. since the time change (daylight savings) noah's school starts earlier. we have a really hard time getting up there on time. it starts at 12:25. so we try to be out the door by 12:15. we walk to school- it is about 4 blocks up town. each day school starts with all of the children out in the blacktop area. they are lead in a chant about how they will be good citizens, good students, etc. it is quite neat. then the bell rings, and they are off to their class. noah's best friend at school is named baran.
once we drop noah off, callie, lucy and i walk another block over to callie's preschool. we drop her off. sometimes, her best friend, irem, is waiting at the window for her. after we drop callie off, lucy and i usually go to the supermarket on the way home. since we don't have a car, i can only get as much as i can carry. on thursdays the pazar- the big traveling market that has everything- is on our neighborhood. i love to go there! anyhow, lucy and i run our errands then we head home. i play with her for a little bit, and then she goes down for a nap. two days a week my language helper comes from 2:30 to 4:30. otherwise i study on my own. also, i usually try to start dinner. lucy and i go back out to get the kids at 4:50. i have to pick callie up at 5:00. noah's school gets out at 5:40. so, either the girls and i hang around to get noah, or justin leaves a little early from work and picks him up. now that the time has changed it gets dark pretty early. but, if its nice out, we try to play at the park either before or after dinner. we eat dinner, then play or do whatever. we try to put the kids down by 8:30. then, justin and i study, watch tv, or work on our computers.
our weekends are flexible. we usually try to get out as much as possible. we meet as a team for dinner and worship on sunday nights. it is not the type of church we are used to, but basically we have a topic and scripture for the night. we discuss it with the kids over dinner. then the kids play, and the adults study the bible and discuss it further and pray.
so... there it is. not too exciting really! other than we are in a huge city on an amazing adventure.
POSTED BY ELIZABETH AT 10:11 PM
A day in the life
so, i've finally getting this blog thing figured out. it is hard to get in the habit of posting things on a regular basis. and, i am having a hard time getting my pictures to upload. i know that pictures and video will be far more interesting than anything i have to say!
my friend asked me what a typical day was like. so i figured that was great blog fodder! here it goes...
we wake up whenever the kids get up. that is anywhere between 6:45 and 8:00. the kids usually watch a little tv. we have breakfast- bananas, yogurt, bread, cheese, cereal, etc. Justin usually feeds the kids breakfast while i get ready. then we switch. he leaves for work at about 9:00. he catches the bus just down the street from our apartment complex. the bus is crowded and there is quite a bit of traffic, so his commute takes about an hour. his work day consists of study, errands- shopping for things we need, meting with people, artisans lane work, and language lessons.
the kids are in after noon school. so our mornings are flexible. noah usually has homework to do. and, i have chores like laundry, dishes, etc. lucy goes down for her nap at 10:00. we have to start lunch at 11:30 because it takes forever!! after lunch, the kids have to change and get ready for school. noah wears a uniform. since the time change (daylight savings) noah's school starts earlier. we have a really hard time getting up there on time. it starts at 12:25. so we try to be out the door by 12:15. we walk to school- it is about 4 blocks up town. each day school starts with all of the children out in the blacktop area. they are lead in a chant about how they will be good citizens, good students, etc. it is quite neat. then the bell rings, and they are off to their class. noah's best friend at school is named baran.
once we drop noah off, callie, lucy and i walk another block over to callie's preschool. we drop her off. sometimes, her best friend, irem, is waiting at the window for her. after we drop callie off, lucy and i usually go to the supermarket on the way home. since we don't have a car, i can only get as much as i can carry. on thursdays the pazar- the big traveling market that has everything- is on our neighborhood. i love to go there! anyhow, lucy and i run our errands then we head home. i play with her for a little bit, and then she goes down for a nap. two days a week my language helper comes from 2:30 to 4:30. otherwise i study on my own. also, i usually try to start dinner. lucy and i go back out to get the kids at 4:50. i have to pick callie up at 5:00. noah's school gets out at 5:40. so, either the girls and i hang around to get noah, or justin leaves a little early from work and picks him up. now that the time has changed it gets dark pretty early. but, if its nice out, we try to play at the park either before or after dinner. we eat dinner, then play or do whatever. we try to put the kids down by 8:30. then, justin and i study, watch tv, or work on our computers.
our weekends are flexible. we usually try to get out as much as possible. we meet as a team for dinner and worship on sunday nights. it is not the type of church we are used to, but basically we have a topic and scripture for the night. we discuss it with the kids over dinner. then the kids play, and the adults study the bible and discuss it further and pray.
so... there it is. not too exciting really! other than we are in a huge city on an amazing adventure.
POSTED BY ELIZABETH AT 10:11 PM
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Originally posted on THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2007
Celebrating Two Months
We have been here for two months now. This is the longest that I have ever gone without driving a car (since age 15). I totally love the public transportation. It is anything but convenient, but it is fascinating. I go to a language class on Saturday mornings- the only thing that I do by myself- down by the water. To get there I have to ride the busiest bus on the planet. I still holler "wait" when the driver starts to pull away and all the people have not managed to shove themselves on... what a rookie. The drivers are amazing. They can drive the big 'ol thing (one of those double kind that looks like two buses hooked together with a dryer vent hose), talk on their cell phone, make change for passengers, and navigate the absurd traffic. I love being stuck up front right by the windshield where I can see everything. We manage to get so close to cars and people. What fun. Sorry... enough of that rabbit trail ( I am bad about that).
Anyhow, we've been here two months, and seeing as how I have just managed to get this thing up and running I felt the need to reminisce on what I've learned...
1. cobblestones are beautiful but quite bumpy
2. seat belts and traffic rules are over-rated
3. Americans should be glad that there is a $500 fine for littering
4. learning and functioning in a new language is way hard
5. people here are wonderful, regardless of what the media says
6. downsizing is a great thing
7. the kids don't miss a bit of their stuff
8. there is so much to discover in the world
9. roasted sheep heads are really gross looking, especially because they have crazy looking teeth
10. futbol is life
11. the weekly market is so fun
12. it is hard to help your child do their homework when it takes you forever to translate the simple directions with your giant translation dictionary
13. it is hard to make friends when you can't say much
14. it is fun to laugh at yourself
15. my neighbor is a fenerbache fan- it is one of the futbol teams here, and he screams during their games
16. women have it very hard here
17. joy is possible anywhere
18. kids are very flexible
19. it really is great to be where the Lord wants you to be
20. 40Lira of groceries is too much to carry home a mile and up 4 flights of stairs- especially when I have Lucy and the stroller, too
21. meat, fruits, and vegetables are really fresh here
22. the "building guy" (for lack of a better word- he is sort of the handy man) sells piping hot fresh bread daily, door to door, and it is fantastic
23. a headscarf is a great way to hide hair that does not like this humid climate
24. the call to prayer is broadcast from the minarets at every mosque five times a day- it sounds like nothing you have ever heard before- eerie but beautiful
25. old ladies will not so gently rap you with their umbrellas and tell you to properly bundle your baby if she is not dressed for arctic weather despite what the weather really is
26. your baby is public property
27. pedestrians or the smaller car have no rights and must be on the defense at all times (even on the sidewalk)
28. you must really keep up with the laundry if your kids wear a uniform and you only bought a few
29. "vat is your name?" said repeatedly by local kids is amazing annoying
30. whoever chose white button down shirts for Noah's uniform should be beaten
31. bread is the most essential part of the diet here- Dr. Adkins would be flogged
Truly I could go on. The past two months have been nothing but learning, and it feels like we've just made a drop in the ocean. The most exciting thing that I have learned is how to work my washing machine. After two months with the translation dictionary, the machine, and the manual, I think I've got it figured out. (ok, maybe no the most exciting thing, but it is up there on the list). Laundry and acquiring and preparing food are major parts of my day now. Come to think of it... they were before, too. I guess we're not that different after all.
POSTED BY ELIZABETH AT 12:22 AM
LABELS: TWO MONTHS
Celebrating Two Months
We have been here for two months now. This is the longest that I have ever gone without driving a car (since age 15). I totally love the public transportation. It is anything but convenient, but it is fascinating. I go to a language class on Saturday mornings- the only thing that I do by myself- down by the water. To get there I have to ride the busiest bus on the planet. I still holler "wait" when the driver starts to pull away and all the people have not managed to shove themselves on... what a rookie. The drivers are amazing. They can drive the big 'ol thing (one of those double kind that looks like two buses hooked together with a dryer vent hose), talk on their cell phone, make change for passengers, and navigate the absurd traffic. I love being stuck up front right by the windshield where I can see everything. We manage to get so close to cars and people. What fun. Sorry... enough of that rabbit trail ( I am bad about that).
Anyhow, we've been here two months, and seeing as how I have just managed to get this thing up and running I felt the need to reminisce on what I've learned...
1. cobblestones are beautiful but quite bumpy
2. seat belts and traffic rules are over-rated
3. Americans should be glad that there is a $500 fine for littering
4. learning and functioning in a new language is way hard
5. people here are wonderful, regardless of what the media says
6. downsizing is a great thing
7. the kids don't miss a bit of their stuff
8. there is so much to discover in the world
9. roasted sheep heads are really gross looking, especially because they have crazy looking teeth
10. futbol is life
11. the weekly market is so fun
12. it is hard to help your child do their homework when it takes you forever to translate the simple directions with your giant translation dictionary
13. it is hard to make friends when you can't say much
14. it is fun to laugh at yourself
15. my neighbor is a fenerbache fan- it is one of the futbol teams here, and he screams during their games
16. women have it very hard here
17. joy is possible anywhere
18. kids are very flexible
19. it really is great to be where the Lord wants you to be
20. 40Lira of groceries is too much to carry home a mile and up 4 flights of stairs- especially when I have Lucy and the stroller, too
21. meat, fruits, and vegetables are really fresh here
22. the "building guy" (for lack of a better word- he is sort of the handy man) sells piping hot fresh bread daily, door to door, and it is fantastic
23. a headscarf is a great way to hide hair that does not like this humid climate
24. the call to prayer is broadcast from the minarets at every mosque five times a day- it sounds like nothing you have ever heard before- eerie but beautiful
25. old ladies will not so gently rap you with their umbrellas and tell you to properly bundle your baby if she is not dressed for arctic weather despite what the weather really is
26. your baby is public property
27. pedestrians or the smaller car have no rights and must be on the defense at all times (even on the sidewalk)
28. you must really keep up with the laundry if your kids wear a uniform and you only bought a few
29. "vat is your name?" said repeatedly by local kids is amazing annoying
30. whoever chose white button down shirts for Noah's uniform should be beaten
31. bread is the most essential part of the diet here- Dr. Adkins would be flogged
Truly I could go on. The past two months have been nothing but learning, and it feels like we've just made a drop in the ocean. The most exciting thing that I have learned is how to work my washing machine. After two months with the translation dictionary, the machine, and the manual, I think I've got it figured out. (ok, maybe no the most exciting thing, but it is up there on the list). Laundry and acquiring and preparing food are major parts of my day now. Come to think of it... they were before, too. I guess we're not that different after all.
POSTED BY ELIZABETH AT 12:22 AM
LABELS: TWO MONTHS
Monday, August 24, 2009
My First Post
Originally posted on WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2007
A Glimpse at the Possibility
You know how in romantic comedies, which I love, everything ends up great in the end? The plot is always the same no matter how different the setting is. The girl shows up to something new, she doesn't look or act her best, and she can't function appropriately. But, by the end of the movie everything is perfect. She's figured it all out, and got the great looking guy to boot! All of this is just two hours!
Well, I've been in this new place a lot more than two hours, and I've got relatively nothing figured out!! I can say, "ekmek var mı?" See, I can even type it properly with this awesome computer (i love apple!!). Notice that the ı does not have a dot! The question, "ekmek var mı?" means is there bread? It is the first thing our curriculum teaches us.
So, anyhow, I can say it, and a few other things. My point is that in the movie that is my life (and as Donald Miller says, yes, you are in my movie, you play a wonderful supporting role, thank you!) two hours have passed and I haven't gotten things all figured out! But, you know how in the movie, they show quick little glimpses of the process the girl goes through to get it all together. In my movie, I had my first few glimpses last week. I thought of and spoke my very first sentence!! Not, the sentences and phrases that I've been taught. But, my very own! It had the subject and verb of my choosing and was conjugated correctly. Not only that, but the person I was speaking to understood me and answered!! Also, last week, we got our first piece of mail! I cannot tell you how wonderful it was. It was a birthday card for Lucy from my mom, but our entire family devoured it!! You have to remember that we have not seen or spoken to a real live American (other than our team leaders) in two months, so we are easily excitable.
So... it's a start- a glimpse at the possibility. I'll get there, it will just take a lot longer than two stinkin hours!!!
POSTED BY ELIZABETH AT 11:15 PM
LABELS: A GLIMPSE AT THE POSSIBILITY
A Glimpse at the Possibility
You know how in romantic comedies, which I love, everything ends up great in the end? The plot is always the same no matter how different the setting is. The girl shows up to something new, she doesn't look or act her best, and she can't function appropriately. But, by the end of the movie everything is perfect. She's figured it all out, and got the great looking guy to boot! All of this is just two hours!
Well, I've been in this new place a lot more than two hours, and I've got relatively nothing figured out!! I can say, "ekmek var mı?" See, I can even type it properly with this awesome computer (i love apple!!). Notice that the ı does not have a dot! The question, "ekmek var mı?" means is there bread? It is the first thing our curriculum teaches us.
So, anyhow, I can say it, and a few other things. My point is that in the movie that is my life (and as Donald Miller says, yes, you are in my movie, you play a wonderful supporting role, thank you!) two hours have passed and I haven't gotten things all figured out! But, you know how in the movie, they show quick little glimpses of the process the girl goes through to get it all together. In my movie, I had my first few glimpses last week. I thought of and spoke my very first sentence!! Not, the sentences and phrases that I've been taught. But, my very own! It had the subject and verb of my choosing and was conjugated correctly. Not only that, but the person I was speaking to understood me and answered!! Also, last week, we got our first piece of mail! I cannot tell you how wonderful it was. It was a birthday card for Lucy from my mom, but our entire family devoured it!! You have to remember that we have not seen or spoken to a real live American (other than our team leaders) in two months, so we are easily excitable.
So... it's a start- a glimpse at the possibility. I'll get there, it will just take a lot longer than two stinkin hours!!!
POSTED BY ELIZABETH AT 11:15 PM
LABELS: A GLIMPSE AT THE POSSIBILITY
Remembering
Two years ago today I swallowed my tears, tried to stop the "ugly cry" in the middle of the airport, gave my Mom one last hug and got on a plane. We had no idea what to expect or what this journey would entail, but we were pumped and ready! We knew that the Lord had called us to this and even if it contained a lot of unknowns, God's best is better than anything I can imagine!
Two years ago today I tasted my last bit of America, spoke to my niece face to face for the last time, and had clothes that were put in a clothes dryer. We got on that plane full of sadness, but a little bit more full of excitement and adrenaline. We had no idea how long and short two years could feel!
Two years ago today our kids said goodbye to the only life they had known- their stuff, their friends, their language, and un-fazedly boarded the plane. For them this was just a new adventure. They had no idea how permanent feels.
Two years ago today I had to pare down almost everything I own so it could fit into a few suitcases and then watch and hope the I would see those suitcases again on the other side. I wish I had brought more shoes. They do not make my size in this country!
Two years ago today we tangibly trusted God in a way that we have never done before. It hurt and it was exciting. We sold everything. Actually, we practically gave it all away, so there was nothing to come back to, and no money to replace it. This place had to become home.
Two years ago today I could not image how hard this transition would be. We were all bright eyed and bushy tailed- full of hope and blinded by naivity. We knew two words of our new language: "hello" and "horse." You cannot get very far with that!
Two years ago today I couldn't stop dreaming of all the possibilities, but now, I must confess, I wonder if there are any sometimes. I know that God has not forsaken this place, but sometimes it sure does feel that way. The people here are so stuck in religion, that they don't have a minute to consider God, let alone allow their faith to speak to their hearts.
Two years ago today we showed up in this country ready to make a difference- to serve the poor, to be a positive influence in our community, and to share Jesus for any who asked. Lately I wonder if we have made a difference at all. A few more kids have gotten the opportunity to be educated, a few more families have been warm in the winter, a few more people have heard that God really does love them and deeply desires to know them, and hopefully everyone that we have come into contact with has learned that Americans are not at all like what they thought they were like. But is it enough? The task at hand is gigantic!
Two years ago today I could never have anticipated how much I would need God to show up in my life.
Two years ago today I could never have dreamed of how He really would show up and how He would carry me when it was all too much. He began the process of teaching me what I thought I already knew. He has shown me that it REALLY IS ALL ABOUT HIM. This is His story, and His country, and His people. And it is a privlidge to be His ambassador here. (Sometimes I forget that part.)
Two years ago today I couldn't fathom how I could love people who were so different than me. How I could learn to do things like they do, eat like they eat, talk like they talk, and enjoy it. I couldn't imagine the way that God would transform my heart of stone to His heart of compassion and love.
Two years ago today I thought that this would be easy and fun because it is what I was made to do. But now I've learned that some of the greatest callings are neither easy nor fun, but they are undeniabily better than all I could ask or hope for!
We have been in this country exactly two years and I have never loved or needed Jesus more!
Praise the LORD, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
Praise the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits-
who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all the oppressed.
He made known his ways to Moses,
his deeds to the people of Israel:
The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger, abounding in love.
Psalm 103 1-8
Two years ago today I tasted my last bit of America, spoke to my niece face to face for the last time, and had clothes that were put in a clothes dryer. We got on that plane full of sadness, but a little bit more full of excitement and adrenaline. We had no idea how long and short two years could feel!
Two years ago today our kids said goodbye to the only life they had known- their stuff, their friends, their language, and un-fazedly boarded the plane. For them this was just a new adventure. They had no idea how permanent feels.
Two years ago today I had to pare down almost everything I own so it could fit into a few suitcases and then watch and hope the I would see those suitcases again on the other side. I wish I had brought more shoes. They do not make my size in this country!
Two years ago today we tangibly trusted God in a way that we have never done before. It hurt and it was exciting. We sold everything. Actually, we practically gave it all away, so there was nothing to come back to, and no money to replace it. This place had to become home.
Two years ago today I could not image how hard this transition would be. We were all bright eyed and bushy tailed- full of hope and blinded by naivity. We knew two words of our new language: "hello" and "horse." You cannot get very far with that!
Two years ago today I couldn't stop dreaming of all the possibilities, but now, I must confess, I wonder if there are any sometimes. I know that God has not forsaken this place, but sometimes it sure does feel that way. The people here are so stuck in religion, that they don't have a minute to consider God, let alone allow their faith to speak to their hearts.
Two years ago today we showed up in this country ready to make a difference- to serve the poor, to be a positive influence in our community, and to share Jesus for any who asked. Lately I wonder if we have made a difference at all. A few more kids have gotten the opportunity to be educated, a few more families have been warm in the winter, a few more people have heard that God really does love them and deeply desires to know them, and hopefully everyone that we have come into contact with has learned that Americans are not at all like what they thought they were like. But is it enough? The task at hand is gigantic!
Two years ago today I could never have anticipated how much I would need God to show up in my life.
Two years ago today I could never have dreamed of how He really would show up and how He would carry me when it was all too much. He began the process of teaching me what I thought I already knew. He has shown me that it REALLY IS ALL ABOUT HIM. This is His story, and His country, and His people. And it is a privlidge to be His ambassador here. (Sometimes I forget that part.)
Two years ago today I couldn't fathom how I could love people who were so different than me. How I could learn to do things like they do, eat like they eat, talk like they talk, and enjoy it. I couldn't imagine the way that God would transform my heart of stone to His heart of compassion and love.
Two years ago today I thought that this would be easy and fun because it is what I was made to do. But now I've learned that some of the greatest callings are neither easy nor fun, but they are undeniabily better than all I could ask or hope for!
We have been in this country exactly two years and I have never loved or needed Jesus more!
Praise the LORD, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
Praise the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits-
who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all the oppressed.
He made known his ways to Moses,
his deeds to the people of Israel:
The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger, abounding in love.
Psalm 103 1-8
Sunday, August 23, 2009
I've Got More
I was at my neighbors' house until after 12:00 drinking tea. Its already past 1 and I don't think I'll be able to sleep for a long time still! UGH! But the company was fantastic, and I am so thankful for a fun group of ladies to sit and talk with. (If you read my previous post... they LOVED the taco pile on!! I was shocked! Maybe they are just being polite!)
During Ramadan, obnoxious drummers go through the streets banging their drums at 4 a.m. to help everyone get up to eat and pray before the sun comes up. When our drummer comes to my door for his tip, I think I may have to kick him in his teeth!
I finally washed the sheets (its been 6 weeks, don't judge me!) that my mom pre-washed and sent me for my birthday. Now they don't smell like her anymore. Sadness...
During Ramadan, obnoxious drummers go through the streets banging their drums at 4 a.m. to help everyone get up to eat and pray before the sun comes up. When our drummer comes to my door for his tip, I think I may have to kick him in his teeth!
I finally washed the sheets (its been 6 weeks, don't judge me!) that my mom pre-washed and sent me for my birthday. Now they don't smell like her anymore. Sadness...
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Brain Dumping
I am going to dump the contents of my brain on you. This should be fun (and short!).
1. Here are some pictures of the gypsies stealing stuff that I took from my window. I LOVE gypsies!!
2. The poor kids were using large old plastic water bottles to sled down the steep hill next to us.
3. Ramadan started yesterday. Things are different during this time.
4. Everyone is totally sitting at their tables with utensils in hand anxiously waiting for the cannon to fire and signal the end of fasting for the day. As soon as the cannon goes off, they begin stuffing their faces like they haven't eaten in months. It looks like something from the Simpsons.
5. Because my Dad had some questions, here are pictures of our squatty potty. You can use the faucet and pitcher to manually flush. We are fancy and have a water tank on the wall that you can pull the string and it flushes sort of like normal.
6. The evening meal that breaks the fast is called Iftar. Tonight, my sweet neighbor brought a plate of their Iftar selections up for us to try. So I am about to return the plate with some selections from our Iftar meal. We had Taco pile on- sort of like nachos made with Doritos, taco meat, brown beans, rice, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. Their reaction will be priceless!!
7. The other day I made biscuits and made them try them. Their reactions were mixed. They swore that they were terrific, but their faces said otherwise!
1. Here are some pictures of the gypsies stealing stuff that I took from my window. I LOVE gypsies!!
2. The poor kids were using large old plastic water bottles to sled down the steep hill next to us.
3. Ramadan started yesterday. Things are different during this time.
4. Everyone is totally sitting at their tables with utensils in hand anxiously waiting for the cannon to fire and signal the end of fasting for the day. As soon as the cannon goes off, they begin stuffing their faces like they haven't eaten in months. It looks like something from the Simpsons.
5. Because my Dad had some questions, here are pictures of our squatty potty. You can use the faucet and pitcher to manually flush. We are fancy and have a water tank on the wall that you can pull the string and it flushes sort of like normal.
6. The evening meal that breaks the fast is called Iftar. Tonight, my sweet neighbor brought a plate of their Iftar selections up for us to try. So I am about to return the plate with some selections from our Iftar meal. We had Taco pile on- sort of like nachos made with Doritos, taco meat, brown beans, rice, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. Their reaction will be priceless!!
7. The other day I made biscuits and made them try them. Their reactions were mixed. They swore that they were terrific, but their faces said otherwise!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Later
Dear Self,
I know its hard to believe now, but one day you will desperately miss being woken up by a little girl wearing her bathing suit backwards pretending to be a tiger and growling at you. Not quite the alarm clock that you dreamed of when you were younger, but truly one of life's sweetest things. Try to remember that!
You will even miss the two that come to snuggle and end up fighting each morning!
Enjoy this time, it is fleeting!
Love,
Me
I know its hard to believe now, but one day you will desperately miss being woken up by a little girl wearing her bathing suit backwards pretending to be a tiger and growling at you. Not quite the alarm clock that you dreamed of when you were younger, but truly one of life's sweetest things. Try to remember that!
You will even miss the two that come to snuggle and end up fighting each morning!
Enjoy this time, it is fleeting!
Love,
Me
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Third Child Syndrome
The plight of the poor forgotten third child...
She has to read herself to sleep!
It's ok, Baby Girl! I am a third child, too! I feel your pain. I had to complete my own baby book!
Oh wait...
At least I had a baby book! You can't say the same!
She has to read herself to sleep!
It's ok, Baby Girl! I am a third child, too! I feel your pain. I had to complete my own baby book!
Oh wait...
At least I had a baby book! You can't say the same!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Building
The entertainment for us this summer is the building project next door. Every day we anxiously wait to see what piece of machinery will show up, what strange thing they will doze, and how innovative the workers can be. For a country that only teaches rote memory and no problem solving in school, these workers sure do have to do a lot of problem solving!!
Case in point, the building next to us. They leveled off the front and back of the building to be a car port. But the side which would connect the two was too steep and narrow so they made it into steps. Now the building has a tiny car port in front and a lovely patio (?) in the back. And don't get me started on the front stairs and the strange places that they put concrete.
Our friends' building has an underground car garage. The only problem is that the road leading to it is too narrow for a car to be able to turn into the garage. So it sits empty! I think they should put a pool in there. They have a head start since it floods every time it rains anyway!
Justin and I have come to the conclusion that they don't have a plan or anything really. They just start digging and figure it out as they go.
Case in point, the building next to us. They leveled off the front and back of the building to be a car port. But the side which would connect the two was too steep and narrow so they made it into steps. Now the building has a tiny car port in front and a lovely patio (?) in the back. And don't get me started on the front stairs and the strange places that they put concrete.
Our friends' building has an underground car garage. The only problem is that the road leading to it is too narrow for a car to be able to turn into the garage. So it sits empty! I think they should put a pool in there. They have a head start since it floods every time it rains anyway!
Justin and I have come to the conclusion that they don't have a plan or anything really. They just start digging and figure it out as they go.
Monday, August 17, 2009
High Five!
In the future I would love to teach English. Everyone is always asking us to teach them, or if they have a bit of English they like to practice with us. My neighbors across the street have asked me to tutor their son, and although I get this question a lot, I feel like the Lord is prompting me to follow up on this one. I really like this family and this opportunity would give me more time with them. So I have started to do some research on how and where to start. As a language learned myself, I have a good idea on how to go about it. So I was just browsing the internet for most used words and common greetings/ phrases. This is what I learned today:
When meeting someone formally for the first time, we shake their hand and say "How do you do?" or "Pleased to meet you."
"How do you do?" isn't really a question, it just means "Hello".
When young people meet informally they sometimes say "Give me five!" and slap their hands together (high five).
Generally we do not shake hands with people we know well.
This is so funny! Um... can you say inacurate?! I am from the south, we hug everyone- from those we just met to those we have known for years!
After reading this, I feel the need to high five a bit more seeing as how it's our national gesture and all.
Slap me some skin!!
When meeting someone formally for the first time, we shake their hand and say "How do you do?" or "Pleased to meet you.""How do you do?" isn't really a question, it just means "Hello".
When young people meet informally they sometimes say "Give me five!" and slap their hands together (high five).Generally we do not shake hands with people we know well.
This is so funny! Um... can you say inacurate?! I am from the south, we hug everyone- from those we just met to those we have known for years!
After reading this, I feel the need to high five a bit more seeing as how it's our national gesture and all.
Slap me some skin!!
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Saturday, August 15, 2009
New Dishwasher
I got a new dishwasher.
She wasn't cheap.
She's a little high maintenance.
She spills water everywhere.
But, SWEET MERCY, she is the cutest thing on this planet!!!
She wasn't cheap.
She's a little high maintenance.
She spills water everywhere.
But, SWEET MERCY, she is the cutest thing on this planet!!!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Stuck
So, we had some friends over for dinner tonight. Their family is leaving the country in just a few short weeks. As the wife and I were in the kitchen trying to get the dishes put away and dessert ready we heard her 1 1/2 year old start screaming. Then the kids started yelling that he was stuck in the toilet! The kid had slipped on the floor of our squatty potty and gotten his foot stuck in the hole!!! Wow! I never knew that was even possible! He came out just fine, and I am sure that with a few years of professional counseling that he will get over his newfound fear of squatty potties!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Birthday Boy
It is only fitting that two months after Noah turned 8 years old I should finally get some pictures of that cute kid up on this ole' blog! It sort of feels like the Callie show lately!
So without further ado, here is my boy!!
Our family tradition is that the birthday person gets to have the breakfast of their choice. Noah chose chocolate chip muffins. After the muffins he got to open presents. I don't have a picture of that. Maybe it was because it was pretty slim pickins this year. Because we were about to move and he was going to get his very own room he mostly got money for his birthday. He used the money to buy special things for his room. Gamma and PawPaw gave him money for a new skateboard. So he got to pick that out the day before. From Justin and I he wanted a new Nintendo game. So, Justin's parents were bringing that in a few weeks. All that adds up to very few things to open on his birthday. But, he did not care! I was so glad, I thought that he would mope a bit. Not my boy!!
I made him the cake of his request and he got to eat it at lunch time since we were going out for dinner. He chose chocolate with chocolate icing. Do you see a theme here?
Birthday parties are pretty non-existent here, especially for boys. For the girls we have invited their friends and their moms over for tea. But the thought of a bunch of boys running around my flat did not appeal to me or Noah so we did our own family thing!
The girls had school, but he didn't. His teacher had stopped coming since it was so close to the end of the school year and they had completed the material (normal here). So after we dropped the girls off we headed to a local shopping center. He got to shop at his favorite team store. He bought a jacket and a soccer ball with his birthday money.
This boy is a fanatic for his team. The locals here love how crazy he is for his team. And he can trash talk in two languages (a good thing?). We had his new room painted in the team colors, got team curtains, and as soon as it cools down we'll get his team bedspread.
After a bit of shopping he and I went to see Night at the Museum 2. It was a special treat to go to a movie- very expensive here, and choose candy and popcorn!
Justin picked the girls up from school and they met us down at the water. We took a ferry across to the other side, and then a minibus out to a really fancy mall. It has a Rainforest Cafe and we knew the kids would love it. Our waiter was super nice. He brought Noah a special limeade when he heard that it was his birthday.
My boys
My Girls
Justin and me
These monkeys loved this restaurant. It was basically empty, so they got to be a little wild without disturbing anyone (except Justin and me). There were huge aquariums everywhere, trees and vines, and life size anamatronic elephants, gorillas, alligators, and maybe others that I am forgetting. They moved and made noise, and every now and again there was a storm complete with thunder and lightening. I can see how some kids would be scared, but thank goodness ours were not.
This is Noah's volcano cake. Again, chocolate. They brought it out and sang to him. He loved being the center of attention (and being the "boss" for the day!).
A little high on sugar and excitement. This child smiled like this all night. I thought that his eyes were going to pop out of his head!
Posing with the elephants.
Not happy about posing with the elephants!
We matched! She loved the aquariums and found all of the characters from Finding Nemo.
Noah had a fun birthday. It was nice to have some time just he and I and then go on an adventure as a family. The restaurant was so much fun. The food was great, and since it was empty I was not stressed trying to keep them calm and quiet. All in all a great day!
So without further ado, here is my boy!!
Our family tradition is that the birthday person gets to have the breakfast of their choice. Noah chose chocolate chip muffins. After the muffins he got to open presents. I don't have a picture of that. Maybe it was because it was pretty slim pickins this year. Because we were about to move and he was going to get his very own room he mostly got money for his birthday. He used the money to buy special things for his room. Gamma and PawPaw gave him money for a new skateboard. So he got to pick that out the day before. From Justin and I he wanted a new Nintendo game. So, Justin's parents were bringing that in a few weeks. All that adds up to very few things to open on his birthday. But, he did not care! I was so glad, I thought that he would mope a bit. Not my boy!!
I made him the cake of his request and he got to eat it at lunch time since we were going out for dinner. He chose chocolate with chocolate icing. Do you see a theme here?
Birthday parties are pretty non-existent here, especially for boys. For the girls we have invited their friends and their moms over for tea. But the thought of a bunch of boys running around my flat did not appeal to me or Noah so we did our own family thing!
The girls had school, but he didn't. His teacher had stopped coming since it was so close to the end of the school year and they had completed the material (normal here). So after we dropped the girls off we headed to a local shopping center. He got to shop at his favorite team store. He bought a jacket and a soccer ball with his birthday money.
This boy is a fanatic for his team. The locals here love how crazy he is for his team. And he can trash talk in two languages (a good thing?). We had his new room painted in the team colors, got team curtains, and as soon as it cools down we'll get his team bedspread.
After a bit of shopping he and I went to see Night at the Museum 2. It was a special treat to go to a movie- very expensive here, and choose candy and popcorn!
Justin picked the girls up from school and they met us down at the water. We took a ferry across to the other side, and then a minibus out to a really fancy mall. It has a Rainforest Cafe and we knew the kids would love it. Our waiter was super nice. He brought Noah a special limeade when he heard that it was his birthday.
My boys
My Girls
Justin and me
These monkeys loved this restaurant. It was basically empty, so they got to be a little wild without disturbing anyone (except Justin and me). There were huge aquariums everywhere, trees and vines, and life size anamatronic elephants, gorillas, alligators, and maybe others that I am forgetting. They moved and made noise, and every now and again there was a storm complete with thunder and lightening. I can see how some kids would be scared, but thank goodness ours were not.
This is Noah's volcano cake. Again, chocolate. They brought it out and sang to him. He loved being the center of attention (and being the "boss" for the day!).
A little high on sugar and excitement. This child smiled like this all night. I thought that his eyes were going to pop out of his head!
Posing with the elephants.
Not happy about posing with the elephants!
We matched! She loved the aquariums and found all of the characters from Finding Nemo.
Noah had a fun birthday. It was nice to have some time just he and I and then go on an adventure as a family. The restaurant was so much fun. The food was great, and since it was empty I was not stressed trying to keep them calm and quiet. All in all a great day!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
End of School Bonanza
I have mentioned before a time or ten that Callie's teacher was rather fond of productions. She took up a collection and hired a special teacher to come weekly and teach the kids all sorts of songs and dances. I guess it was the equivalent of signing her up for a dance class. What we experienced through the year was nothing short of amazing to this Momma! Callie went from being super shy, wide eyed, unhappy on stage to a little girl who now puts on shows for us weekly. She practices, makes tickets, and talks about it constantly. It has been an interesting thing to watch.
Anyhow, her end of the year performance was fantastic. They got permission to use the small city theatre (Hello, air conditioning, nice to meet you! Can we be friends and you can come and live at my house?) which is really nice. The production was a bit more streamlined and had a very few glitches. It was only 1 1/2 hours long and Callie would love to show you her video of it (they even had a video system!!) any time you are free and feeling patient!!
Here are a few of my favorite pictures:
A few of the songs were in English and the teacher would give Callie the microphone during those. It was like she had her own concert with a lot of little backup dancers! So cute!
Here are a few snippits of my video. Can I just tell you that my girl can move! She knows how to shake it!
Anyhow, her end of the year performance was fantastic. They got permission to use the small city theatre (Hello, air conditioning, nice to meet you! Can we be friends and you can come and live at my house?) which is really nice. The production was a bit more streamlined and had a very few glitches. It was only 1 1/2 hours long and Callie would love to show you her video of it (they even had a video system!!) any time you are free and feeling patient!!
Here are a few of my favorite pictures:
A few of the songs were in English and the teacher would give Callie the microphone during those. It was like she had her own concert with a lot of little backup dancers! So cute!
Here are a few snippits of my video. Can I just tell you that my girl can move! She knows how to shake it!
Bellydancing Callie from Elizabeth on Vimeo.
Callie's Time to Shine from Elizabeth on Vimeo.
End of Year Performance from Elizabeth on Vimeo.
More Callie Awesomeness from Elizabeth on Vimeo.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Bathing
A few weekends ago I finally got to do something that I have wanted to do since I moved here. My sweet friend and I went to the baths that this country is famous for. I have really wanted to go, but did not want to go by myself. Plus I was downright petrified of the nudity that was involved.
I read a lot of information, reviews, and tips on the internet. Plus, my friend had been a few times before, so she talked me through it. She found a lovely local place- not like the very lovely but very expensive places geared toward tourists on the other side.
We found it, and timidly entered through the beaded curtain. It did seem strange to me that in a culture so transfixed on modesty that a beaded curtain was the only thing shielding a room full of topless women from the world. But what do I know?
So, we enter, and fumble our way through trying to figure out what exactly to do. The room we were in was a large round domed room with small changing rooms all along the outside walls. it was the cool room- the room where you rest and relax after having been the hot bath. The lady up front gave us each thin towels that sort of look like picnic blankets to wrap ourselves in and a key to our changing room. I was relieved to see that all of the women had on bikini bottoms or underwear. It is amazing how quickly your standards of modesty change! But Iw as surprised at the wide range of ages and types of women (pretty young girls, fat, thin, ancient, etc.) that were there.
Once we were sufficiently disrobed and wrapped up in our picnic blankets we headed for the hot room. My heart was pounding- I was so nervous. We entered the hot room. It was another round room with a high domed ceiling, a large marble table in the middle, and marble basin around the walls. Like this:
It was very hot due to the hot mineral spring water taps. Each basin has a hot and cold tap like this:
You start with more cold than hot and eventually work your way to the hottest you can stand. All while sitting on a marble bench next to the basin and using a special bowl to pour the water over yourself.
I was really surprised at how quickly my nervousness melted away, and I began to enjoy the experience of being with all these women. It felt a little surreal in the since that this is a really ancient form of bathing as well as socializing. After just a short while I was totally calm and could have cared less about my lack of clothing!
After sitting for a nice long while I was sufficiently sweaty and prune-y. Then the attendant told me it was my turn. She took a large bowl of just hot water and splashed it over the part of the marble table where I would lay. It instantly heats the stone. Then I laid down and she scrubbed my ENTIRE body. Again, I was really shocked at how not weird this felt. It was a bit like getting a massage for the first time. Where it feels so good that you don't even care! It was fun to see just how much yucky dead skin she could get off. I had heard that it is a bit painful, but I didn't think so at all. This is an example:
Once she finished scrubbing me, my attendant told me to rinse off really well. She cleaned the table with a few buckets of that super hot water, and then it was time for my massage. Erase any thoughts of a massage you may have had in America. It was not like that! That's not to say that it wasn't good. It was just different. She used lather to rub and clean my skin till it really did squeak. Again, I had heard that the attendants are typically quite rough, but mine was not. I am probably just super awesome and tough!
After I was all clean and done I went back to my basin and rinsed off, washed my hair, etc. Then it was my friend's turn. After we were both sufficiently clean we went out to the cool room to change and relax. I could not stop sweating. But, if you are a regular reader of this blog, you know that that is a constant problem except in maybe January! I tried my best to cool down, we got ready, and then we headed out to go shopping.
My skin has never felt batter. It was such a fun and interesting experience. And the be frank, not nearly as weird as it sounds. I can't wait to go back.
I read a lot of information, reviews, and tips on the internet. Plus, my friend had been a few times before, so she talked me through it. She found a lovely local place- not like the very lovely but very expensive places geared toward tourists on the other side.
We found it, and timidly entered through the beaded curtain. It did seem strange to me that in a culture so transfixed on modesty that a beaded curtain was the only thing shielding a room full of topless women from the world. But what do I know?
So, we enter, and fumble our way through trying to figure out what exactly to do. The room we were in was a large round domed room with small changing rooms all along the outside walls. it was the cool room- the room where you rest and relax after having been the hot bath. The lady up front gave us each thin towels that sort of look like picnic blankets to wrap ourselves in and a key to our changing room. I was relieved to see that all of the women had on bikini bottoms or underwear. It is amazing how quickly your standards of modesty change! But Iw as surprised at the wide range of ages and types of women (pretty young girls, fat, thin, ancient, etc.) that were there.
Once we were sufficiently disrobed and wrapped up in our picnic blankets we headed for the hot room. My heart was pounding- I was so nervous. We entered the hot room. It was another round room with a high domed ceiling, a large marble table in the middle, and marble basin around the walls. Like this:
It was very hot due to the hot mineral spring water taps. Each basin has a hot and cold tap like this:
You start with more cold than hot and eventually work your way to the hottest you can stand. All while sitting on a marble bench next to the basin and using a special bowl to pour the water over yourself.
I was really surprised at how quickly my nervousness melted away, and I began to enjoy the experience of being with all these women. It felt a little surreal in the since that this is a really ancient form of bathing as well as socializing. After just a short while I was totally calm and could have cared less about my lack of clothing!
After sitting for a nice long while I was sufficiently sweaty and prune-y. Then the attendant told me it was my turn. She took a large bowl of just hot water and splashed it over the part of the marble table where I would lay. It instantly heats the stone. Then I laid down and she scrubbed my ENTIRE body. Again, I was really shocked at how not weird this felt. It was a bit like getting a massage for the first time. Where it feels so good that you don't even care! It was fun to see just how much yucky dead skin she could get off. I had heard that it is a bit painful, but I didn't think so at all. This is an example:
Once she finished scrubbing me, my attendant told me to rinse off really well. She cleaned the table with a few buckets of that super hot water, and then it was time for my massage. Erase any thoughts of a massage you may have had in America. It was not like that! That's not to say that it wasn't good. It was just different. She used lather to rub and clean my skin till it really did squeak. Again, I had heard that the attendants are typically quite rough, but mine was not. I am probably just super awesome and tough!
After I was all clean and done I went back to my basin and rinsed off, washed my hair, etc. Then it was my friend's turn. After we were both sufficiently clean we went out to the cool room to change and relax. I could not stop sweating. But, if you are a regular reader of this blog, you know that that is a constant problem except in maybe January! I tried my best to cool down, we got ready, and then we headed out to go shopping.
My skin has never felt batter. It was such a fun and interesting experience. And the be frank, not nearly as weird as it sounds. I can't wait to go back.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Driving Around in my Automobile
Our company is having their world-wide international conference in Southeast Asia. There will be about 2 thousand workers from various fields around the world gathered together for an entire week of teaching, encouragement, and worship. We were too poor to go, but received an unexpected benefit from it. Some co-workers from another city in this country had to fly out of our city but did not want to pay the hundreds of lira to park their car at the airport. So, they left their car with us for 2 weeks!!!
I was really nervous about driving again after 2 years of not being behind the wheel- in a humongous city to boot. So, Justin took me over to a large parking lot where I could practice, get used to the clutch, etc. And I am pleased to say that I am doing great. It is so fun just to load the kids up and run errands! Probably shortly after my 16th birthday the awe and excitement of FREEDOM that a car brings wore off. Well, its back and this time I will never take it for granted again!!! I'll probably start picking up passengers soon just so I have an excuse to drive around!
Here are some things overheard while in the car that first night:
*Does this car have a barf bag?
*Do a loopty-loo!
*What did the taco say to the mayo?
*What do you do when a mother drives? People shiver with fear!
*Do you follow the lines or the cars?
*Mom, don't hit that horse!! (gypsy) ...but if you did, who would win?
Saturday, August 8, 2009
SAD
We went to our old neighborhood yesterday to visit with friends. It was really nice to feel "missed" and be greeted so heartily! Everyone was really excited to see us again.
But, as I sat with the women drinking tea one of the women began to tell the story of how her cell phone was broken. Her husband bashed her across the head with it! No one was shocked but me. And then they all began telling similar horrific stories of abuse. At one point I had to go out of the room to "check on the kids" and gather myself a bit.
One of my particularly religious friends was quiet, and so I turned to her and asked if her husband treated her this way. Yes, that's how all men here are she said. "My husband's father was like that. My father was like that. And our sons will act like that." So then I turned to one of my closest friends whose husband is (in my opinion) a total scum bag and asked am I understanding this correctly? All of their husbands act like yours?!?! They sort of chuckled and affirmed that I was understanding things correctly. I was appalled!!
I had heard the statistic that somewhere around 80% of women here are abused, and likely more than that, but the others will not talk about it. But when you hear it from the lips of your friends and see their scars it becomes all too real!
Then ladies began to praise my husband and go on and on about how they wanted a husband like mine- a man who loved his wife and family, and treats us and others with respect and kindness.
I couldn't handle it any more! I just had to tell them how shocked and upset I was. That I could not understand how their husbands could say they fear God (Allah), show their faces in the mosque, even, and then act in such a sinful manner. I went on to tell them that the reason my husband treats us and other the way he does is because he truly fears God and follows Scripture.
What I wish I had said- and was fully able to say- is that God loves them so much and considers each one of them as His precious treasure. He cares for them as a beloved daughter and fumes at the way they are being treated. No human deserves such abuse! He counts the hairs on their heads and deeply desires to be in close relationship with each one of them. That is why he sent Jesus. Jesus died to pay for our sin and bridge the gap between the unholy (us) and the Most Holy (God). Because of Jesus anyone who believes is able to approach the throne of the Most High God- not as a dirty sinful creature but as a beautiful, redeemed bride- pure and lovely.
Oh Lord, let your truth be known here, and these women that you deeply love come to know it and abide in it.
But, as I sat with the women drinking tea one of the women began to tell the story of how her cell phone was broken. Her husband bashed her across the head with it! No one was shocked but me. And then they all began telling similar horrific stories of abuse. At one point I had to go out of the room to "check on the kids" and gather myself a bit.
One of my particularly religious friends was quiet, and so I turned to her and asked if her husband treated her this way. Yes, that's how all men here are she said. "My husband's father was like that. My father was like that. And our sons will act like that." So then I turned to one of my closest friends whose husband is (in my opinion) a total scum bag and asked am I understanding this correctly? All of their husbands act like yours?!?! They sort of chuckled and affirmed that I was understanding things correctly. I was appalled!!
I had heard the statistic that somewhere around 80% of women here are abused, and likely more than that, but the others will not talk about it. But when you hear it from the lips of your friends and see their scars it becomes all too real!
Then ladies began to praise my husband and go on and on about how they wanted a husband like mine- a man who loved his wife and family, and treats us and others with respect and kindness.
I couldn't handle it any more! I just had to tell them how shocked and upset I was. That I could not understand how their husbands could say they fear God (Allah), show their faces in the mosque, even, and then act in such a sinful manner. I went on to tell them that the reason my husband treats us and other the way he does is because he truly fears God and follows Scripture.
What I wish I had said- and was fully able to say- is that God loves them so much and considers each one of them as His precious treasure. He cares for them as a beloved daughter and fumes at the way they are being treated. No human deserves such abuse! He counts the hairs on their heads and deeply desires to be in close relationship with each one of them. That is why he sent Jesus. Jesus died to pay for our sin and bridge the gap between the unholy (us) and the Most Holy (God). Because of Jesus anyone who believes is able to approach the throne of the Most High God- not as a dirty sinful creature but as a beautiful, redeemed bride- pure and lovely.
Oh Lord, let your truth be known here, and these women that you deeply love come to know it and abide in it.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Greatest News EVAHHH
That is not too dramatic of a title for what I am about to tell you...
Take a breath...
Get ready for it...
I FOUND SOME CHEETOS THAT I LIKE!!!!!
I know you are excited with me.
Calm down...
What?!?! You're not excited?
Really you should have been doing a happy dance for me! I am ashamed of you!
Let me just tell you about the Cheeto situation up until this fateful day:
There are no crunchy Cheetos to be found in this country. I cannot explain it. Perhaps they have never tasted the chip of the gods (or the meat of the gods- PORK- for that matter!), but for some reason only puffy Cheetos have made their way into the hearts of the people. Now, I am not one to discriminate against puffiness- being on the puffy side myself. But, when the puffiness comes in such tasty flavors as old shoe, spicy butt-crack, and roadside garbage [disclaimer: not actual chip names] I do not much care for them.
But today... or sweet halelujah... TODAY. ALL. THAT. CHANGED!!! I took the kids to the market, and when the whining and begging reached its pinnacle of annoyance (see life in the Middle East isn't so different from life at your local Walmarts) I caved. The Cheetos had glow in the dark tattoos!!
Moment of silence and reverence for the joy that is temporary tattoos that glow in the dark. They will be in Heaven.
Let's continue... I bought the danged Cheetos and huffed home. It was past lunch time and I was hungry so we opened the bag, and I grabbed a few. They were puffy, but something was different. They tasted good. Real GOOD!!
The Hallelujah Chorus started and my tastebuds sprung to life. I think the sun was also shining through the windows, birds were singing, and the plants were smiling. The kids were probably still fighting, but I was in my happy place! I may or may not have proceeded to eat almost the entire bag. In my defense it was a smallish bag and it was past lunch and they tasted FAB-U-LOUS!!!!
After I stockpile 478 or so bags of this deliciousness I should probably get on to the less important things in life like serving the poor, loving Jesus, and taking care of my family. Today it will be done with a smile on my face and Cheeto crumbs on my shirt. Maybe even an orange finger print somewhere!!!
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
They will come home and sing songs of joy on the heights of Jerusalem.
They will be radiant because of the Lord’s good gifts—
the abundant crops of grain, new wine,[Cheetos], and olive oil,
and the healthy flocks and herds.
Their life will be like a watered garden,
and all their sorrows will be gone.
The young women will dance for joy,
and the men—old and young—will join in the celebration.
He will turn their mourning into joy.
He will comfort them and exchange their sorrow for rejoicing.
Jeremiah 31:12-13
Take a breath...
Get ready for it...
I FOUND SOME CHEETOS THAT I LIKE!!!!!
I know you are excited with me.
Calm down...
What?!?! You're not excited?
Really you should have been doing a happy dance for me! I am ashamed of you!
Let me just tell you about the Cheeto situation up until this fateful day:
There are no crunchy Cheetos to be found in this country. I cannot explain it. Perhaps they have never tasted the chip of the gods (or the meat of the gods- PORK- for that matter!), but for some reason only puffy Cheetos have made their way into the hearts of the people. Now, I am not one to discriminate against puffiness- being on the puffy side myself. But, when the puffiness comes in such tasty flavors as old shoe, spicy butt-crack, and roadside garbage [disclaimer: not actual chip names] I do not much care for them.
But today... or sweet halelujah... TODAY. ALL. THAT. CHANGED!!! I took the kids to the market, and when the whining and begging reached its pinnacle of annoyance (see life in the Middle East isn't so different from life at your local Walmarts) I caved. The Cheetos had glow in the dark tattoos!!
Moment of silence and reverence for the joy that is temporary tattoos that glow in the dark. They will be in Heaven.
Let's continue... I bought the danged Cheetos and huffed home. It was past lunch time and I was hungry so we opened the bag, and I grabbed a few. They were puffy, but something was different. They tasted good. Real GOOD!!
The Hallelujah Chorus started and my tastebuds sprung to life. I think the sun was also shining through the windows, birds were singing, and the plants were smiling. The kids were probably still fighting, but I was in my happy place! I may or may not have proceeded to eat almost the entire bag. In my defense it was a smallish bag and it was past lunch and they tasted FAB-U-LOUS!!!!
After I stockpile 478 or so bags of this deliciousness I should probably get on to the less important things in life like serving the poor, loving Jesus, and taking care of my family. Today it will be done with a smile on my face and Cheeto crumbs on my shirt. Maybe even an orange finger print somewhere!!!
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
They will come home and sing songs of joy on the heights of Jerusalem.
They will be radiant because of the Lord’s good gifts—
the abundant crops of grain, new wine,[Cheetos], and olive oil,
and the healthy flocks and herds.
Their life will be like a watered garden,
and all their sorrows will be gone.
The young women will dance for joy,
and the men—old and young—will join in the celebration.
He will turn their mourning into joy.
He will comfort them and exchange their sorrow for rejoicing.
Jeremiah 31:12-13
Ponderings
*Why when I am doing laundry from the day there are 5 pairs of panties from Lucy and no underwear from Noah?
*Why must my children strip stark naked to go #2... even in public restrooms?
*Why must my children strip stark naked to go #2... even in public restrooms?
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Being a Butt...
of jokes is so much fun.
Here is my story of stupidity for today...
A young girl came to watch the kids so I could get out of the house and study a bit. So I flagged down a minibus. Minibuses are about the size of the short school buses, with flat fronts and seats down only one side and the other side is standing room. They go along a set route, but you can get on and off anywhere. They should carry about 25 people and therefore usually carry 40-45! Ummm... closeness. The summer is my favorite- our sweat runneth over and into a river down the aisle.
I digress...
So, I was on the minibus right next to the door, riding happily along enjoying my brief taste of freedom. A man came up behind me and yelled, "where are you from?". Startled, I turned and said "I am American!" sort of loudly. Everyone looked at me like I was crazy. Then the minibus stopped and the man got off.
At that point I realized he didn't ask me where I was from, he was telling the driver to let him him off "where ever." And then some crazy lady [me] turned around and shouted, "I am an American!" at him. No wonder people were staring at me! Language learning is so fun!!!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
F-L-E-X-I-B-L-E
UGH!!! I am learning to be flexible. I knew coming into this line of work that the #1 thing I needed was love for the Lord, and the #2 thing was flexibility. That is super hard for someone as ...um... particular as me. I like things a certain way. I think through my day and schedule things in a way that will best suit the kids. In other words, I plan, plan, plan! So when things don't go according to plan I try my best to be calm, but it is hard. Yes, ask my family, it is HARD to live with me!!
Anyhow, we have new team members arriving tonight. A family that has been in another part of the country for 2 years, and is now transitioning onto our team and into working with the poor. They have two young girls. One is Lucy's age and the other is 3 months old.
They are arriving tonight on a plane and staying with us until their flat is set up. Just a few days. So, I have spent the day cleaning. I was almost finished, except for the kitchen because I wanted to wait until after I fed the kids lunch. Just as we finished lunch the doorbell rang. It was our downstairs neighbors coming up for a visit. Now, in my head I had quite a list of things to do before they arrived, but in reality NOTHING in this country comes before guests. So I invited them in, and we visited for 3 hours!
Once the mother, grandmother, and baby left (the fourth grader stayed to play) I surveyed the damage. Oh those kids!!! They can reverse a hard days work in a wink! So out the mop comes, and I am back to work. Hopefully I handled the visit with grace and joy even if my mind was preoccupied!!!
F-L-E-X-I-B-I-L-I-T-Y
Anyhow, we have new team members arriving tonight. A family that has been in another part of the country for 2 years, and is now transitioning onto our team and into working with the poor. They have two young girls. One is Lucy's age and the other is 3 months old.
They are arriving tonight on a plane and staying with us until their flat is set up. Just a few days. So, I have spent the day cleaning. I was almost finished, except for the kitchen because I wanted to wait until after I fed the kids lunch. Just as we finished lunch the doorbell rang. It was our downstairs neighbors coming up for a visit. Now, in my head I had quite a list of things to do before they arrived, but in reality NOTHING in this country comes before guests. So I invited them in, and we visited for 3 hours!
Once the mother, grandmother, and baby left (the fourth grader stayed to play) I surveyed the damage. Oh those kids!!! They can reverse a hard days work in a wink! So out the mop comes, and I am back to work. Hopefully I handled the visit with grace and joy even if my mind was preoccupied!!!
F-L-E-X-I-B-I-L-I-T-Y
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Photo Shoot
My mom asked for pictures of the kids for her birthday. The pictures that she had in frames were a bit dated! Since I wasn't too pleased with our last photo shoot I decided to take the pictures myself.
We bought new clothes and headed over to a local park known for its beautiful flowers and natural settings. Here's what I ended up with:
We bought new clothes and headed over to a local park known for its beautiful flowers and natural settings. Here's what I ended up with:
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