As the final hours of 2012 tick quickly by, I wanted to take a moment to say "thank you." Thank you to each of you for being a part of my 2012 adventure. I am so thankful to be able to look around and see such supportive friends and family.
I am very much looking forward to 2013. I'm looking forward to the true times of family, as well as the love and laughter and encouragement that comes from good friends. I'm on a quest to find one reason to smile each and every day. Will you join me?
Whatever the new year brings, I wish you the best of the best. Cheers!
Monday, December 31, 2012
Monday, December 24, 2012
Merry Christmas!
I have so much to be grateful for this Christmas.
I hope that as you celebrate with your friends and family, that peace abounds and joy exceeds any other feeling. May God show up in new and wonderful ways.
Merry Christmas! :)
I hope that as you celebrate with your friends and family, that peace abounds and joy exceeds any other feeling. May God show up in new and wonderful ways.
Merry Christmas! :)
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Thankfulness
As I sit here writing "organization code: 139338" over and over and over again onto brochures for a fundraising option for CHAOS, it gives me a moment to reflect.
Something crossed my mind that has been on and off for the last few days: God's Timing.
I've been so frustrated with God's "perfect" timing lately. It sure doesn't always feel perfect. (if you read the follow and sound sarcastic on the italicized parts, you'll get it as I want it to sound...)
As I complete school, I look around at my classmates, who are all young and able to devote more of their life to their studies and think "yeah, God - perfect timing... why couldn't I have just stayed in school?"
As I look at my family and see marriages and children, I think to myself "yeah, God - perfect timing. In a few years, if I get pregnant, I'll be in the geriatric ward."
As I spend time in my home, which is a rented portion of a home owned by a single woman around my age, I think to myself, "Yeah, God - perfect timing. I feel as though I'm a failed 30 year old woman."
As I think about the future with Eric and the possibility of our lives going down different paths, I think to myself "Yeah, God - thanks. That's perfect timing."
Then I put down my pen and I paused...
It is perfect.
If I'd competed school years ago, I wouldn't have gotten my minor in Latin American Studies. I often say that I wish I could major in LAS because that's truly where my heart is.
If I'd gotten married and started a family years ago, I wouldn't be going on any of the countless adventures I've gone on in the last few years.
If I'd bought a home and settled down, I wouldn't be free to serve God as He has called me to serve.
If I think about Eric, I think that at any other point in our lives, we wouldn't have met.
God's perfect timing has been the reason that I've made the friends I have.
God's perfect timing has been the reason that I'm able to be with my family - that I've been able to watch my nephew grow up - that I've been able to be around.
God's perfect timing has been the reason I am sitting at this very desk at this very moment doing something that seems so menial right now... but that it means we might be able to give more students an opportunity to experience God's love for them outside these four walls - in a retreat or mission experience setting.
And that's enough for me.
Something crossed my mind that has been on and off for the last few days: God's Timing.
I've been so frustrated with God's "perfect" timing lately. It sure doesn't always feel perfect. (if you read the follow and sound sarcastic on the italicized parts, you'll get it as I want it to sound...)
As I complete school, I look around at my classmates, who are all young and able to devote more of their life to their studies and think "yeah, God - perfect timing... why couldn't I have just stayed in school?"
As I look at my family and see marriages and children, I think to myself "yeah, God - perfect timing. In a few years, if I get pregnant, I'll be in the geriatric ward."
As I spend time in my home, which is a rented portion of a home owned by a single woman around my age, I think to myself, "Yeah, God - perfect timing. I feel as though I'm a failed 30 year old woman."
As I think about the future with Eric and the possibility of our lives going down different paths, I think to myself "Yeah, God - thanks. That's perfect timing."
Then I put down my pen and I paused...
It is perfect.
If I'd competed school years ago, I wouldn't have gotten my minor in Latin American Studies. I often say that I wish I could major in LAS because that's truly where my heart is.
If I'd gotten married and started a family years ago, I wouldn't be going on any of the countless adventures I've gone on in the last few years.
If I'd bought a home and settled down, I wouldn't be free to serve God as He has called me to serve.
If I think about Eric, I think that at any other point in our lives, we wouldn't have met.
God's perfect timing has been the reason that I've made the friends I have.
God's perfect timing has been the reason that I'm able to be with my family - that I've been able to watch my nephew grow up - that I've been able to be around.
God's perfect timing has been the reason I am sitting at this very desk at this very moment doing something that seems so menial right now... but that it means we might be able to give more students an opportunity to experience God's love for them outside these four walls - in a retreat or mission experience setting.
And that's enough for me.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Horoscope
"All
you need now is a Vision. Forget the tedious details, it's about
following your hunches, listening to your instincts and finding a quiet
moment in every day this week so that you can hear the still voice
within. Inspiration is yours for the taking...either that or you'll be
too dreamy or escapist to want to bother at all. Dreams become prophetic
(if you can remember them). You want to leap without looking, take
risks without forethought and pursue anything that gives you an
emotional high. Artistic Aries will love this period, business types may
not because nothing is solid, zero is certain and everything is just a
possibility in a vast field of potential. The only limits are the ones
you believe in."
As I have admitted before, I read my horoscope from one website every week. I don't believe the stars hold my future, but I do enjoy the fact that sometimes it is simply inspirational.
Take this week's horoscope as posted above. It's exactly what's going on in my life right now. So, if you've read that, you know that something big is about to happen.
I have a vision. The details are unimportant at the moment, but the end destination has always been semi-clear. I'm leaping without looking and taking risks - and I have the reassurance that God will be with me, but not the reassurance that I will remain comfortable. Nothing is certain and there is so much potential ahead of me.
I'm excited. Are you?
As I have admitted before, I read my horoscope from one website every week. I don't believe the stars hold my future, but I do enjoy the fact that sometimes it is simply inspirational.
Take this week's horoscope as posted above. It's exactly what's going on in my life right now. So, if you've read that, you know that something big is about to happen.
I have a vision. The details are unimportant at the moment, but the end destination has always been semi-clear. I'm leaping without looking and taking risks - and I have the reassurance that God will be with me, but not the reassurance that I will remain comfortable. Nothing is certain and there is so much potential ahead of me.
I'm excited. Are you?
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Prayers Requested
For the last couple months, I've had a hard battle. I've had about 3x more migraines than usual in the last month. In this last week alone, I had 4. Usually I can count on 1 or 2 per MONTH. It's been hard to attend class and hard to concentrate when I do attend.
The struggle with this is that sometimes the Excedrin or store brand migraine medicine doesn't work as quickly as it used to. I also don't always have it on me, since my migraines USED to be very predictable.
The other part of the struggle is that I have only limited options as far as insurance is concerned. I have Plan First, which is a Michigan program for women in order to get annual exams, as well as family planning needs (if I were to decide to have a child, I believe it covers the pregnancy, but I'm not completely sure). What I am sure of is that it doesn't cover non-family planning services. :( Migraines are not included.
I have spoken with one of my professors, who is also my adviser and boss for the LAS minor job. She has offered to help me if I need it. I just pray that they'll go away on their own. I'm tired of fighting, ya know?
The struggle with this is that sometimes the Excedrin or store brand migraine medicine doesn't work as quickly as it used to. I also don't always have it on me, since my migraines USED to be very predictable.
The other part of the struggle is that I have only limited options as far as insurance is concerned. I have Plan First, which is a Michigan program for women in order to get annual exams, as well as family planning needs (if I were to decide to have a child, I believe it covers the pregnancy, but I'm not completely sure). What I am sure of is that it doesn't cover non-family planning services. :( Migraines are not included.
I have spoken with one of my professors, who is also my adviser and boss for the LAS minor job. She has offered to help me if I need it. I just pray that they'll go away on their own. I'm tired of fighting, ya know?
Monday, October 8, 2012
Don't Wait for the Storm to Pass...
Learn to Dance in the Rain!!!
I found this quote today and loved it and wanted to share it with y'all.
Hope you're all having a blessed day.
I found this quote today and loved it and wanted to share it with y'all.
Hope you're all having a blessed day.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Announcing another Mr. and Mrs. Richter!
On September 22, 2012, Aaron Richter and Jennifer Hall were united in marriage in Rothbury, MI at the Double JJ Ranch. It was a beautiful setting and very country-themed, which suits both of them.
Now they are away on their honeymoon, a cruise they won from the Bridal Show last year.
Congratulations to both of them and blessings for a happy marriage!
Now they are away on their honeymoon, a cruise they won from the Bridal Show last year.
Congratulations to both of them and blessings for a happy marriage!
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
New Job!
Right before classes started this semester, I received a facebook message from my professor and advisor, Zulema Moret. She needed an assistant for the Latin American Studies minor. This job would be for 20 hours each week and the duties would vary throughout the year.
Prior to accepting the position, I met with Professor Moret to discuss the fact that I couldn't devote more than 15 hours per week to the position and I would only be on campus certain days.
Turns out, she was cool with that.
So far, I've been doing a lot of presentations and a few poster designs, but I expect that my duties will continue to increase as the semester progresses.
Yet another thing to add to my increasingly busy schedule and professional resumé, but I'm enjoying it so far.
~Trazy Richter
Latin American Studies Office Assistant
Prior to accepting the position, I met with Professor Moret to discuss the fact that I couldn't devote more than 15 hours per week to the position and I would only be on campus certain days.
Turns out, she was cool with that.
So far, I've been doing a lot of presentations and a few poster designs, but I expect that my duties will continue to increase as the semester progresses.
Yet another thing to add to my increasingly busy schedule and professional resumé, but I'm enjoying it so far.
~Trazy Richter
Latin American Studies Office Assistant
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
It is with a sad heart that I update you.
A while ago I posted a prayer request for a refugee friend in Hungary who had been detained. I have a very sad update and still urgent prayer request to pass along.
On September 4, 2012, I received word that Ali was being deported back to Iran. On September 5, he was deported.
The email I received stated: "No one knows what awaits him upon his return. He is strong in his Christian identity, but we don't know, and he doesn't know, if he will find any support back in Iran, or if he will simply go under arrest, or what. Nor do we know if we will be able to have contact with him after he leaves here."
We have not heard anything since his departure.
To quote my friend, Enikö: "It is hard to accept a system where there is no mercy... where credibility and legitimacy are so narrowly defined. Please continue to hold Ali in your prayers as he is facing a very uncertain future."
Keep in mind all this went down 2 weeks ago now. I haven't heard anything, so please keep Ali in your prayers.
On September 4, 2012, I received word that Ali was being deported back to Iran. On September 5, he was deported.
The email I received stated: "No one knows what awaits him upon his return. He is strong in his Christian identity, but we don't know, and he doesn't know, if he will find any support back in Iran, or if he will simply go under arrest, or what. Nor do we know if we will be able to have contact with him after he leaves here."
We have not heard anything since his departure.
To quote my friend, Enikö: "It is hard to accept a system where there is no mercy... where credibility and legitimacy are so narrowly defined. Please continue to hold Ali in your prayers as he is facing a very uncertain future."
Keep in mind all this went down 2 weeks ago now. I haven't heard anything, so please keep Ali in your prayers.
Monday, September 17, 2012
To Canada and Back!
Last weekend proved to be a great adventure that I would love to relay to you, my faithful readers.
I'll start at the beginning :)
When I went to Hungary, many others went with me. One of my fellow volunteers was Kristy, a girl from the great country of Canada. You may have heard of it? You also might recognize Kristy's name from my stories and pictures.
Anyway, Kristy was getting married on September 2nd and all her American volunteers were invited to join in the festivities. Matt, Emilie, Lisa (and her husband) and I accepted the challenge and decided to take a roadtrip adventure.
On Friday, August 31st, I began my journey in Grand Rapids, MI following a meeting for my second job (another post on that to follow some day). From Grand Rapids to Chicago, the journey was smooth. I even stopped in Michigan City to do a little shopping since I was running a little early. Unfortunately, that turned out to be a bad choice... because I drove through Chicago... on a Friday afternoon around 3p... on a holiday weekend. I sat in bumper-to-bumper traffic for no less than an hour and a half... and I would dare say it took 2 hours to travel I94 through Chicago from the very south side up to the north side, where we were meeting. Instead of being early, I ended up being very very late. Fortunately, I have fantastic friends who waited patiently for me.
We headed out on our journey and our first stop was in Madison, Wisconsin. Our stay there involved fantastic Mexican food, giant air mattresses and lovely hosts that even made coffee and eggs for us before we began the next leg of our journey.
Saturday brought us through Wisconsin, through Minnesota and into the edge of North Dakota - to Fargo. Here we picked up a friend of Matt's and fellow YAGM (the ELCA program that sent Matt, Emilie, Lisa and Kristy to Hungary/Slovakia). Her name was Jen and it was such a delight to have her join us. Another hour and some later, we landed in Grand Forks, North Dakota. We met up with Lisa and her husband, Danny, and her parents (they were all on vacation). We stayed the night at a friend of Lisa's mother's home, even though she was actually out of the country. Kinda funny, but it was a great location and allowed for everyone to actually sleep in a bed. No air mattresses that night!
We were even joined for dinner by another YAGM volunteer living in that area. He served in Mexico just last year and it was so so so great to talk to him.
Bright and early in the morning, we were up and at 'em and headed northward. We crossed the Canadian border without any issue, but unfortunately, no stamp was received. Bummer, eh? Continuing still northward, we arrived in Winnipeg, Manitoba around noon. Lisa and Danny checked into their hotel room and then opened up that space so that we could change. An hour and a half later, we headed to the church.
Random funny moment: as we were walking up to the church (remember, we are in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada), a lady exclaims "It's TRAZY!" I had never seen this woman in my life. Turns out, she is Kristy's mom and had seen so many posts and pictures, and had heard so many stories from our time in Hungary, she instantly knew who I was. It was just a little shocking, though.
The wedding was a quaint, private ceremony in a cute older church with so much character. As Kristy walked down the aisle, arm in arm with her dad, I couldn't help it - I cried. Kristy and Hartley are so in love and she looked so beautiful and I was so happy! Something about weddings always makes me cry so much. Again, not out of sadness, but out of true joy.
Following the wedding, we headed outside to blow bubbles and send them off to take pictures. We headed to the location of the reception. The reception maintained it's cute and quaint theme and took place at a nearby cultural center. The building was nestled in the woods near many trails and a monastery ruins site. We visited the meditation grounds and played among the ruins. There was even a pond nearby! It was so picturesque!
Prior to the formal dinner, there were some snackies and lemonade. The lemonade was served, uniquely, in mason jars with lids that had perfect straw holes and everything. Everything was so... well... Kristy! It was wonderful :)
We had a wonderful meal with a delicious Hungarian appetizer called "Gombás palacsinta," complete with a variety of other dishes and courses. Following dinner, there was DANCING!!! We danced and had a blast, then we gathered outside to enjoy some live music on violin, bass and mandolin. After a sparkler send-off to the newly wedded couple, we headed off to the home of Quintin.
Quintin served with Phiren Armenca, formerly known as Roma Gadje Dialogue Through Service, in Hungary while we were there. What a small world that he calls Winnipeg, Manitoba home! While I passed out rather early, apparently it was a long night of fun reminiscing. In the morning, we gathered at a quaint breakfast place and enjoyed a fantastic meal, along with the presence of several hundred bees, which provided free entertainment. After our meal, we began our long journey home.
Southward we drove, back across the US/Canada border. Without any issues, we were back in the United States and driving through North Dakota. After a couple hours, we dropped Jen off at her car and continued our journey. Somewhere in Canada, I picked up a migraine. After finding my medicine and popping my pills, somewhere in Minnesota, I lost my migraine. After a couple stops for gas and food, we were in Wisconsin.
Within a matter of hours, we were driving into Chicago. Upon our arrival to Chicago, I hopped into my car and drove the rest of the journey back to Grand Rapids. Due to lack of traffic, which allowed me to actually go the speed limit, I was home in only 2 1/2 hours of drive time.
What a whirlwind trip!
I'll start at the beginning :)
When I went to Hungary, many others went with me. One of my fellow volunteers was Kristy, a girl from the great country of Canada. You may have heard of it? You also might recognize Kristy's name from my stories and pictures.
Anyway, Kristy was getting married on September 2nd and all her American volunteers were invited to join in the festivities. Matt, Emilie, Lisa (and her husband) and I accepted the challenge and decided to take a roadtrip adventure.
On Friday, August 31st, I began my journey in Grand Rapids, MI following a meeting for my second job (another post on that to follow some day). From Grand Rapids to Chicago, the journey was smooth. I even stopped in Michigan City to do a little shopping since I was running a little early. Unfortunately, that turned out to be a bad choice... because I drove through Chicago... on a Friday afternoon around 3p... on a holiday weekend. I sat in bumper-to-bumper traffic for no less than an hour and a half... and I would dare say it took 2 hours to travel I94 through Chicago from the very south side up to the north side, where we were meeting. Instead of being early, I ended up being very very late. Fortunately, I have fantastic friends who waited patiently for me.
We headed out on our journey and our first stop was in Madison, Wisconsin. Our stay there involved fantastic Mexican food, giant air mattresses and lovely hosts that even made coffee and eggs for us before we began the next leg of our journey.
Saturday brought us through Wisconsin, through Minnesota and into the edge of North Dakota - to Fargo. Here we picked up a friend of Matt's and fellow YAGM (the ELCA program that sent Matt, Emilie, Lisa and Kristy to Hungary/Slovakia). Her name was Jen and it was such a delight to have her join us. Another hour and some later, we landed in Grand Forks, North Dakota. We met up with Lisa and her husband, Danny, and her parents (they were all on vacation). We stayed the night at a friend of Lisa's mother's home, even though she was actually out of the country. Kinda funny, but it was a great location and allowed for everyone to actually sleep in a bed. No air mattresses that night!
We were even joined for dinner by another YAGM volunteer living in that area. He served in Mexico just last year and it was so so so great to talk to him.
Bright and early in the morning, we were up and at 'em and headed northward. We crossed the Canadian border without any issue, but unfortunately, no stamp was received. Bummer, eh? Continuing still northward, we arrived in Winnipeg, Manitoba around noon. Lisa and Danny checked into their hotel room and then opened up that space so that we could change. An hour and a half later, we headed to the church.
Random funny moment: as we were walking up to the church (remember, we are in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada), a lady exclaims "It's TRAZY!" I had never seen this woman in my life. Turns out, she is Kristy's mom and had seen so many posts and pictures, and had heard so many stories from our time in Hungary, she instantly knew who I was. It was just a little shocking, though.
The wedding was a quaint, private ceremony in a cute older church with so much character. As Kristy walked down the aisle, arm in arm with her dad, I couldn't help it - I cried. Kristy and Hartley are so in love and she looked so beautiful and I was so happy! Something about weddings always makes me cry so much. Again, not out of sadness, but out of true joy.
Following the wedding, we headed outside to blow bubbles and send them off to take pictures. We headed to the location of the reception. The reception maintained it's cute and quaint theme and took place at a nearby cultural center. The building was nestled in the woods near many trails and a monastery ruins site. We visited the meditation grounds and played among the ruins. There was even a pond nearby! It was so picturesque!
Prior to the formal dinner, there were some snackies and lemonade. The lemonade was served, uniquely, in mason jars with lids that had perfect straw holes and everything. Everything was so... well... Kristy! It was wonderful :)
We had a wonderful meal with a delicious Hungarian appetizer called "Gombás palacsinta," complete with a variety of other dishes and courses. Following dinner, there was DANCING!!! We danced and had a blast, then we gathered outside to enjoy some live music on violin, bass and mandolin. After a sparkler send-off to the newly wedded couple, we headed off to the home of Quintin.
Quintin served with Phiren Armenca, formerly known as Roma Gadje Dialogue Through Service, in Hungary while we were there. What a small world that he calls Winnipeg, Manitoba home! While I passed out rather early, apparently it was a long night of fun reminiscing. In the morning, we gathered at a quaint breakfast place and enjoyed a fantastic meal, along with the presence of several hundred bees, which provided free entertainment. After our meal, we began our long journey home.
Southward we drove, back across the US/Canada border. Without any issues, we were back in the United States and driving through North Dakota. After a couple hours, we dropped Jen off at her car and continued our journey. Somewhere in Canada, I picked up a migraine. After finding my medicine and popping my pills, somewhere in Minnesota, I lost my migraine. After a couple stops for gas and food, we were in Wisconsin.
Within a matter of hours, we were driving into Chicago. Upon our arrival to Chicago, I hopped into my car and drove the rest of the journey back to Grand Rapids. Due to lack of traffic, which allowed me to actually go the speed limit, I was home in only 2 1/2 hours of drive time.
What a whirlwind trip!
Friday, September 7, 2012
I've moved!
I'm sitting here in my new living room and enjoying not only a very beautiful orange color around me, but also my "own space". Tinka is all sprawled out and enjoying her new home quite well.
My new address is:
Trazy Richter
917 Nevada St. SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
I am living in the upper half of a beautiful, quaint home in a peaceful neighborhood known as Alger Heights. I am quite happy :)
My new address is:
Trazy Richter
917 Nevada St. SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
I am living in the upper half of a beautiful, quaint home in a peaceful neighborhood known as Alger Heights. I am quite happy :)
Friday, August 10, 2012
Headed to St. Louis!
Hey Everyone! Next week, I'm headed on another adventure with CHAOS! Please pray for us as we head to St. Louis, Missouri to serve alongside Oasis International (refugees) and The Bridge (homeless).
I've created the following prayer guide for our friends and families. If you wouldn't mind praying for us each day, that would be much appreciated.
I've created the following prayer guide for our friends and families. If you wouldn't mind praying for us each day, that would be much appreciated.
Sunday: Please pray for traveling mercies. 11 people in a van for 9 hours doesn’t sound
like the best way to enjoy the Sabbath. Please pray for patience and peace as we
experience our first full day together. Pray for our host, Christ’s Church of St. Charles,
Missouri and thank God for their
dedicated service toward us. Pray for
our huge shopping trip and our opening night of devotions and ask God to be
present in each of those. As well, as
Him to bless us with a very restful night’s sleep.
Monday: Please pray that we start the week strong,
with great energy. Pray that as we meet
Mark and Joani and Katie (our hosts at Oasis International), that we will truly
feel God’s calling on their lives and serve them as Christ taught us to serve. Pray that the refugees we meet today will
welcome us even as strangers. Lift up
our afternoon as we travel to the top of the Gateway Arch. Pray that this will be an enjoyable
experience; free from motion sickness and serious height fears.
Tuesday: Please pray that as we continue at Oasis,
that we may truly soak in the meaning of our theme verses: Colossians 3:22-24. Pray that we will work today as if working for
the Lord, because that is our purpose this week. As we look forward to our first opportunity to
shower on Tuesday evening, may this be a time of true refreshment and
relaxation. Pray that through these days
of hard work and evenings of fun experiences, we will bond together as a group
working toward one cause.
Wednesday: Please pray that as we wake up, we wake up
knowing that God alone is our strength. Pray that as we face one of the most difficult
days of the week, that we will look upon this day with joy. Today we look forward to the fact that we will
be able to take in some of the sights and sounds of downtown St. Louis after our hard work. We are clean and done with crockpot
meals. We are also very tired as our
11:30 bedtime and 6:30 wake up calls are taking a toll on us. Pray that as we enjoy pizza with Mark and
Joani and Katie, we will enjoy their company and their stories.
Thursday: Please pray that today, as we say “good-bye”
to our friends at Oasis International, that this may be a day of hope instead
of sadness. We know that our God will
continue to work in St. Louis
even when we have long since gone. Pray
that many of the Muslim refugees that we’ve met will realize the Truth in
Christianity so that we may reunite with them again in the glorious returning
of Christ. As we take the evening and go
to a historical park and learn about the Native American tribes that once
inhabited the land, pray that we will take it in with great respect. Pray for good weather and for just a chance to
enjoy the great outdoors along the Mississippi River.
Friday: Please keep today in special prayer. We will get to sleep in a little bit because
we have no plans until the midday. We
will enjoy lunch at a homeless shelter, where we will do some small flooring
projects and then go on a “homeless” tour – a tour that talks about a side of
St. Louis that we were unable to fully grasp this week, but a topic that has
always been in the hearts of many in our group. Pray that as we enjoy a strange dinner at a
roadside diner, that we can truly celebrate the hard work that we did this
week. Pray that we can fall asleep
knowing that we did, in fact, work as though working for the Lord.
Saturday: Today, we begin with cleaning and packing
and probably a bit of crankiness. It’s been
a long week and no one is very excited about the drive home. Please pray that Kraig will be focused and
patient and well-rested as he drives our group back to Grand Rapids.
Pray that as we reunite with our families, they will hear our stories – they
will laugh when we laugh, cry when we cry and ponder when we ponder. Pray that we will not greet our families with
crankiness, but in a rejoice and renewed excitement about working and serving
our God.
Sunday, August 5, 2012
Update...
Lots of stuff has been happening.
1) I'm moving.
2) I finished a 5k this morning.
3) I worked at a warehouse for 6 weeks.
4) I've spent all the money I made at the warehouse.
5) I'm headed to St. Louis, MO with our high school students in a week.
Okay, so maybe not THAT much has been happening, but I feel like I haven't slept much since I last posted in here. The next few weeks don't look any less busy. Between moving and St. Louis, I also have a bridal shower to plan (yay!) and a 1st birthday party for my nephew (yay!). Then, in September, I have 2 weddings - one is up in Winnepeg, Manitoba (Canada) and a couple friends are roadtripping to it... the other is my brother's wedding at the Double JJ Resort in Roscommon, MI. Oh, and classes start up in the end of August. Wowza.
1) I'm moving.
2) I finished a 5k this morning.
3) I worked at a warehouse for 6 weeks.
4) I've spent all the money I made at the warehouse.
5) I'm headed to St. Louis, MO with our high school students in a week.
Okay, so maybe not THAT much has been happening, but I feel like I haven't slept much since I last posted in here. The next few weeks don't look any less busy. Between moving and St. Louis, I also have a bridal shower to plan (yay!) and a 1st birthday party for my nephew (yay!). Then, in September, I have 2 weddings - one is up in Winnepeg, Manitoba (Canada) and a couple friends are roadtripping to it... the other is my brother's wedding at the Double JJ Resort in Roscommon, MI. Oh, and classes start up in the end of August. Wowza.
Sunday, July 22, 2012
A Prayer
For those in the midst of tragedy - the tragedies that make headlines or the tragedies striking your most inner core - this is for you.
Gracious and loving God,You watch the ways of all of us
and the utter destruction of which our hands are capable.We implore you to weave goodness and gracein the lives of those destroyed by senseless violence.Surround those whose lives are shattered with a sense of your present love.Wrap them in the worn quilt of your compassion.Though they are lost in grief,May they find you and be comforted.
Amen
- by Kimberly Knight, based loosely on a prayer in the UCC book of worship
Gracious and loving God,You watch the ways of all of us
and the utter destruction of which our hands are capable.We implore you to weave goodness and gracein the lives of those destroyed by senseless violence.Surround those whose lives are shattered with a sense of your present love.Wrap them in the worn quilt of your compassion.Though they are lost in grief,May they find you and be comforted.
Amen
- by Kimberly Knight, based loosely on a prayer in the UCC book of worship
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Urgent Prayer Request... and a video :)
I received this video in a prayer request that I'll mention later, but I wanted to share this with you as well. This is where I found family while I was serving in Budapest, Hungary. It's mainly in Hungarian, but the man speaking is Reverend Aaron Stevens. He first talks about how he came to Hungary (from the US) as a teacher and fell with love with his wife, Edit. Now he has two sons and is the pastor of this congregation. Then it talks about the mission of the church and how one of the biggest missions is with refugees. Two refugees are interviewed, one speaks in Arabic I believe and the other in English. In the mix are the Communion song, bilingual puppets (the worship services took place primarily in English), and a look at our coffee/tea time after the service. It makes me miss that place very much.
Video Here
Now, about that prayer request. I can't say much about it here, but please be praying for the refugees that worship with St. Columba's church. Life is not easy as a refugee in so many ways. They have gone through trauma in their home countries, sometimes trauma in their travels as well. When they arrive in Hungary, they don't speak the language and many don't know neither English nor German, which creates a whole new set of barriers. They look different and Hungarians can be very racially prejudicial, which creates another issue. Then, of course, there are the legal documents. One error can result in deportation... and deportation means returning to the country from which they fled in the first place, where they will surely be faced with even more persecution.
We are calling for prayer over the refugees in Hungary. God knows there are some circumstances that have called us to this urgent request. We need prayers of safe-keeping. We ask for prayers that immigration would have open ears to hear the stories that need to be shared. We ask for God to continue to provide for the needs of the refugees in every single way. Thank you.
Video Here
Now, about that prayer request. I can't say much about it here, but please be praying for the refugees that worship with St. Columba's church. Life is not easy as a refugee in so many ways. They have gone through trauma in their home countries, sometimes trauma in their travels as well. When they arrive in Hungary, they don't speak the language and many don't know neither English nor German, which creates a whole new set of barriers. They look different and Hungarians can be very racially prejudicial, which creates another issue. Then, of course, there are the legal documents. One error can result in deportation... and deportation means returning to the country from which they fled in the first place, where they will surely be faced with even more persecution.
We are calling for prayer over the refugees in Hungary. God knows there are some circumstances that have called us to this urgent request. We need prayers of safe-keeping. We ask for prayers that immigration would have open ears to hear the stories that need to be shared. We ask for God to continue to provide for the needs of the refugees in every single way. Thank you.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
6 months
Curious about how a couple very in love spends their 6 month anniversary?
Well, if their names are Eric and Trazy, it's going back to the location of their first date and getting their pictures taken... then getting ice cream.
Then eating ice cream in our own separate cars because we lead busy lives and that evening he had class and I had homework to do.
These are just a few of our favorites taken by my friend, Eric Stoike of "On the Run Photography" out of Allendale, MI.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
New-found Enjoyment
Please take your seat before I make the next big announcement. You're going to want to be sitting down, I promise.
I've started running.
Take a few deep breaths because I know it's a lot to take in. I'm still in shock myself. However, Jane and I signed up ourselves and significant others for a 5K (http://www.thecolorrun.com) in August and decided that we can do that. We started out by doing some walking at the GVSU fieldhouse facility and then started walking outside this summer at a park in Comstock Park.
On Monday, after a canceled walk in Comstock Park, I decided that it was time I tried to go out by myself. I was a little worried about being out on a trail alone with headphones in (I think I've watched a few too many Law & Order episodes), so I was probably over-cautious and kept looking over my shoulder (which I will blame for my slowness :P), but that will probably become more familiar in time.
The trail is about 1.2 miles (or 1.9 km) and I do one pass, which puts me at about 2.4 miles or 3.8 km. It's not overly long, but believe me, it's enough for me right now.
On Monday (day 1) - It took me about 50 minutes and I ran 6 minutes. Apparently when I'm done running and walk for a while, I walk reeeaaalllllly slow.
On Wednesday (day 2) - It took me about 45 minutes and I ran 8 minutes. There's already been an improvement!
I'll be going out again on Saturday morning with Mr. Eric, so not sure what that will look like but I find myself honestly enjoying it.
I've started running.
Take a few deep breaths because I know it's a lot to take in. I'm still in shock myself. However, Jane and I signed up ourselves and significant others for a 5K (http://www.thecolorrun.com) in August and decided that we can do that. We started out by doing some walking at the GVSU fieldhouse facility and then started walking outside this summer at a park in Comstock Park.
On Monday, after a canceled walk in Comstock Park, I decided that it was time I tried to go out by myself. I was a little worried about being out on a trail alone with headphones in (I think I've watched a few too many Law & Order episodes), so I was probably over-cautious and kept looking over my shoulder (which I will blame for my slowness :P), but that will probably become more familiar in time.
The trail is about 1.2 miles (or 1.9 km) and I do one pass, which puts me at about 2.4 miles or 3.8 km. It's not overly long, but believe me, it's enough for me right now.
On Monday (day 1) - It took me about 50 minutes and I ran 6 minutes. Apparently when I'm done running and walk for a while, I walk reeeaaalllllly slow.
On Wednesday (day 2) - It took me about 45 minutes and I ran 8 minutes. There's already been an improvement!
I'll be going out again on Saturday morning with Mr. Eric, so not sure what that will look like but I find myself honestly enjoying it.
Monday, May 21, 2012
To Be Happy...
15 Things You Should Give Up in Order to Be Happy
I've had a complete change of heart the last few months and the couple things that were still bringing me down have hopes of being turned around as well in the future. It's safe to say that I've never been happier. Part of it is because I listened to this advice without even knowing it. I hope you can get some great inspiration from this as well.
Cheers!
I've had a complete change of heart the last few months and the couple things that were still bringing me down have hopes of being turned around as well in the future. It's safe to say that I've never been happier. Part of it is because I listened to this advice without even knowing it. I hope you can get some great inspiration from this as well.
Cheers!
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Sermon teaser...
I can't help but smile at the quote that stood out to me in a recent blog post by Rachel Held Evans in her "Conversations" series...
If Christians paid more attention to the Beatitudes and less attention to Leviticus, the world would be in much better shape. - Jason Mankey (can i say "Amen" to a Wiccan?)
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
If Christians paid more attention to the Beatitudes and less attention to Leviticus, the world would be in much better shape. - Jason Mankey (can i say "Amen" to a Wiccan?)
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Other blogs
In case you'd like to check what else I'm doing in the blog-o-sphere -
http://SPA312Trazy.blogspot.com - This is a blog for my summer SPA 312 course. It will be in Spanish, but Google Translate is a great tool if you want to know what I am interested in during this course.
http://CHAOStastic.blogspot.com - This is a blog for the youth group at Home Acres Church. Right now it's just a devotional every few weeks, but I have hopes and dreams. Just lacking on the time, I suppose.
http://trazys101.blogspot.com - This is the blog I'll be keeping for my journey through my 101 in 1001 list. This is a list of 101 things that I'd like to accomplish in 1001 days. It's an interesting list. It's an even more interesting journey.
Check them out if you'd like. Don't if you aren't interested.
http://SPA312Trazy.blogspot.com - This is a blog for my summer SPA 312 course. It will be in Spanish, but Google Translate is a great tool if you want to know what I am interested in during this course.
http://CHAOStastic.blogspot.com - This is a blog for the youth group at Home Acres Church. Right now it's just a devotional every few weeks, but I have hopes and dreams. Just lacking on the time, I suppose.
http://trazys101.blogspot.com - This is the blog I'll be keeping for my journey through my 101 in 1001 list. This is a list of 101 things that I'd like to accomplish in 1001 days. It's an interesting list. It's an even more interesting journey.
Check them out if you'd like. Don't if you aren't interested.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Broken... People, Broken... Into, Broken... Down
Last week was a week of brokenness. It's a sad thing to realize, but I also know that my God is bigger. I know that my God heals. I know that my God gives strength. These are not only things that I know, but things I need to hold onto in difficult times.
Broken people used the church to fulfill a need last week. Between the items they took and the damage they caused, it added up to about $10,000. These were all material things that can easily be replaced.
They broke into all of the offices in the church, including mine. Thankfully, no one was hurt and the church wasn't extremely destroyed. We need new doors but we don't need a new God. While this happened to us and it's very unfortunate, He has remained with us and has protected us.
Unfortunately, this has caused some painful moments in the lives of the staff. We need prayers for protection (some of the things stolen contained our addresses and personal information). We need prayers for peace (our offices were places where we felt safe and now they're kinda creepy feeling).
Moving forward one step at a time.
Broken people used the church to fulfill a need last week. Between the items they took and the damage they caused, it added up to about $10,000. These were all material things that can easily be replaced.
They broke into all of the offices in the church, including mine. Thankfully, no one was hurt and the church wasn't extremely destroyed. We need new doors but we don't need a new God. While this happened to us and it's very unfortunate, He has remained with us and has protected us.
Unfortunately, this has caused some painful moments in the lives of the staff. We need prayers for protection (some of the things stolen contained our addresses and personal information). We need prayers for peace (our offices were places where we felt safe and now they're kinda creepy feeling).
Moving forward one step at a time.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Continuity and Changes
Exams are done. I have finished my first semester back at GVSU after a 5 year hiatus and it feels so good. I raised my GPA and ended out the year (both fall and winter semesters) with A-, A-, B+, B+, B, B-, B-, C+, and a C. Not great, but pretty good for someone who just isn't a fan of school and used to have multiple F's on her transcript. With the end of this semester comes the beginning of another. Yes, I am taking summer classes. I'll talk about that more later.
Eric's birthday is done. He is officially 22 years old. I remember when I was 22... Sorry, I told Eric I'd stop acting like it's such a big deal. Anyway, I have no pictures to show for it. Apparently they were all erased accidentally when I allowed some students to take pictures on the retreat. I was more than a little sad, but stuff happens and it could have happened to anyone. Regardless, on Wednesday night, I placed a banner on his car that featured Spiderman saying "Happy Birthday" and on his front seat, I placed a bag of sour candy (his favorite). On Thursday morning, after he left for work, his roommate let me sneak into his room and cover his wall with blue post-it notes filled with 98 ways to tell him how much I love him. That evening, after my final exam, I picked him up and took him to PF Chang's for dinner. Following that, we drove around and visited disappointment after disappointment. The arcade was closed and we got to the movie theatre after the movie started because I misread the start time. We ended up at "Cabin in The Woods" at the theatre across the street from PF Chang's. It was a good night in the end, but definitely wasn't what was planned. Hopefully I'll have better luck next year.
The retreat is done. With that, CHAOS Jr has come to a close with this school year. This year will probably be forever remembered as my worst year so far in youth ministry. Due a great number of circumstances, I am really looking forward to this time of relaxation without programming for middle school students. It was rough students. It was rough volunteer situations. It was rough timing with school and stuff. It was rough stuff going on in the kids' lives. I love the kids and I still love my job, it was just... rough. The retreat itself went very well. I couldn't have asked for anything better except a little bit warmer temps on Saturday. If that's my only complaint, I'd say it was a very successful weekend.
The St. Louis trip is done. Immediately following the CHAOS Jr. retreat, I went to the airport to pick up a rental car. I got a cute little Ford Fiesta and loaded it up with luggage for a few days. I picked up Rachael, one of my CHAOS volunteers and we hit the open road very early on Monday morning. We were headed there to check out our living and working environments for a high school mission trip in August. With some Christian hits on Sirius radio, some leftover snacks from the retreat and the excitement of getting to meet our hosts, the 7.5 hour drive didn't seem too bad. We stopped in New Town, MO, a chic suburb of St. Louis to meet Stephanie, former co-pastor of Christ's Church, an RCA church in St. Louis. She showed us their ministry coffee shop called "The Bridge" and talked about some of the St. Louis sights we may want to take in on our mission trip in August. She also gave us some ideas for while we were in town this week, which was nice of her. Then we headed to the church to check out our sleeping and cooking arrangements. After checking everything out, we headed back to the hotel and got settled in there (and took a nap) before heading out on the town. We needed to make sure that the pizza was delicious enough for our teens. We also headed down to check out the arch and the riverfront for ideas on both where to park and where to wander around. On Tuesday, we got in contact with Mark, the director of Oasis International to talk about working with that organization. Oasis International works with refugees from war and helps them get settled into the USA with furniture, English classes, job help, driver's training, clothing and so much more. It was awesome to see first-hand some of the work they're doing and actually get excited about what we'll be doing in August, too! Of course, the drive home was incident free, although VERY rainy. Oh well. It was so hard to turn in the rental car again today, though, and go back to Miss Saturn. I like my car, but Miss Fiesta was much fun to drive these last couple days.
Summer classes start next week. Yes, you heard correctly. I'm taking summer classes. I have either 2 or 3 right now. In the Spring semester, I'm going to be focusing on an independent study and research project called "Latinos and Literacy in West Michigan." I'll be doing service learning with Plaza Comunitaria, an organization promoting Spanish literacy among native Spanish speakers in our area. I'll be doing some reading as well to go with it and keeping a journal. It sounds exciting to me! The other class that I'll be focusing on is Advanced Spanish Grammar, but it doesn't meet until the second half of summer. It should be good.
That, my friends, is what I call a nice, long update on my life.
Enough about me - how are YOU doing?
Eric's birthday is done. He is officially 22 years old. I remember when I was 22... Sorry, I told Eric I'd stop acting like it's such a big deal. Anyway, I have no pictures to show for it. Apparently they were all erased accidentally when I allowed some students to take pictures on the retreat. I was more than a little sad, but stuff happens and it could have happened to anyone. Regardless, on Wednesday night, I placed a banner on his car that featured Spiderman saying "Happy Birthday" and on his front seat, I placed a bag of sour candy (his favorite). On Thursday morning, after he left for work, his roommate let me sneak into his room and cover his wall with blue post-it notes filled with 98 ways to tell him how much I love him. That evening, after my final exam, I picked him up and took him to PF Chang's for dinner. Following that, we drove around and visited disappointment after disappointment. The arcade was closed and we got to the movie theatre after the movie started because I misread the start time. We ended up at "Cabin in The Woods" at the theatre across the street from PF Chang's. It was a good night in the end, but definitely wasn't what was planned. Hopefully I'll have better luck next year.
The retreat is done. With that, CHAOS Jr has come to a close with this school year. This year will probably be forever remembered as my worst year so far in youth ministry. Due a great number of circumstances, I am really looking forward to this time of relaxation without programming for middle school students. It was rough students. It was rough volunteer situations. It was rough timing with school and stuff. It was rough stuff going on in the kids' lives. I love the kids and I still love my job, it was just... rough. The retreat itself went very well. I couldn't have asked for anything better except a little bit warmer temps on Saturday. If that's my only complaint, I'd say it was a very successful weekend.
The St. Louis trip is done. Immediately following the CHAOS Jr. retreat, I went to the airport to pick up a rental car. I got a cute little Ford Fiesta and loaded it up with luggage for a few days. I picked up Rachael, one of my CHAOS volunteers and we hit the open road very early on Monday morning. We were headed there to check out our living and working environments for a high school mission trip in August. With some Christian hits on Sirius radio, some leftover snacks from the retreat and the excitement of getting to meet our hosts, the 7.5 hour drive didn't seem too bad. We stopped in New Town, MO, a chic suburb of St. Louis to meet Stephanie, former co-pastor of Christ's Church, an RCA church in St. Louis. She showed us their ministry coffee shop called "The Bridge" and talked about some of the St. Louis sights we may want to take in on our mission trip in August. She also gave us some ideas for while we were in town this week, which was nice of her. Then we headed to the church to check out our sleeping and cooking arrangements. After checking everything out, we headed back to the hotel and got settled in there (and took a nap) before heading out on the town. We needed to make sure that the pizza was delicious enough for our teens. We also headed down to check out the arch and the riverfront for ideas on both where to park and where to wander around. On Tuesday, we got in contact with Mark, the director of Oasis International to talk about working with that organization. Oasis International works with refugees from war and helps them get settled into the USA with furniture, English classes, job help, driver's training, clothing and so much more. It was awesome to see first-hand some of the work they're doing and actually get excited about what we'll be doing in August, too! Of course, the drive home was incident free, although VERY rainy. Oh well. It was so hard to turn in the rental car again today, though, and go back to Miss Saturn. I like my car, but Miss Fiesta was much fun to drive these last couple days.
Summer classes start next week. Yes, you heard correctly. I'm taking summer classes. I have either 2 or 3 right now. In the Spring semester, I'm going to be focusing on an independent study and research project called "Latinos and Literacy in West Michigan." I'll be doing service learning with Plaza Comunitaria, an organization promoting Spanish literacy among native Spanish speakers in our area. I'll be doing some reading as well to go with it and keeping a journal. It sounds exciting to me! The other class that I'll be focusing on is Advanced Spanish Grammar, but it doesn't meet until the second half of summer. It should be good.
That, my friends, is what I call a nice, long update on my life.
Enough about me - how are YOU doing?
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Brief Update
Wow.
Exams are done.
Eric's birthday is done.
The retreat is done.
St. Louis overnight trip is tomorrow.
Spring classes start next week.
It's been a good couple of weeks and I've had fun being this busy.
An update to come on all of that will happen someday, maybe even this evening. We'll see.
Exams are done.
Eric's birthday is done.
The retreat is done.
St. Louis overnight trip is tomorrow.
Spring classes start next week.
It's been a good couple of weeks and I've had fun being this busy.
An update to come on all of that will happen someday, maybe even this evening. We'll see.
Monday, April 9, 2012
He has risen. He has risen indeed.
Easter is always filled with friends, family, church, eggs, bunnies, chocolate, and pretty dresses. This year was no different.
This year lacked a little something for me, though. As I picked up my flowers after church at the empty tomb, it hit me. I've been going through the motions of Easter without celebrating the Resurrection. I NEED the Resurrection. I LOVE the Resurrection. I LIVE because of the Resurrection. And yet... it had taken a backseat in the preparation for Easter.
What was the front seat? Well, I'd love to say that His death was there, but in reality, it was a few rows back.
As I celebrate Easter Monday quietly (because this is the day that I believe Jesus overcame death), I found this poem by Kara Root, a pastor in Minnesota. Enjoy.
I need the Resurrection
because my sister is sick
and can’t afford insurance,
because I’ve told a weeping Haitian mom,
“No, I can’t take your son home with me.”
because I’ve been rushed off a Jerusalem street
so the police could blow up a package that could’ve blown up us.
Because I’ve exploded
in rage
and watched their tiny faces cloud with hurt.
because evil is pervasive
and I participate.
I need the Resurrection
because it promises
that in the end
all wrongs are made right.
Death loses.
Hope triumphs.
And Life and
Love Prevail.
I need the Resurrection
because I’m tired and worn
the hours are long, the pay not enough
the second job barely covers the costs
for the kids to eat
the rent to be paid;
because life throws you some pitches
that you just can’t hit.
Because she left, and
I stayed.
Because some days a good cup of coffee
just isn’t enough.
Because I’m tired. . .
I need the Resurrection
because night gives way to morning,
darkness. . . to light
and because one day: all things will be new.
I need the Resurrection
because this life is so wonderful
despite its fragility;
the softness of dew on the morning grass
The house quiet while all are yet asleep
The promise of a new day.
Because each day comes and goes
And so many have now gone too.
I need the Resurrection
because I want one more day
with those who have already
Gone to sleep.
One more hello
One more long afternoon on the front porch
Telling stories
I’ve heard so many times
But long to hear again.
I need the Resurrection
because the story must not end.
I need the Resurrection
Because life has never
been as it should be
for me
or, I guess, for you.
I’ve never seen a rainbow
Or a lily. . .
a mountain, or a tree.
Yet these ideas are more
than just ideas,
and one day, I shall see.
I need the Resurrection
Because I long to touch, and feel, and smell
and wonder over
forever… this
Clean earth… which has been sullied.
One day, renewed.
And one day, as I use my senses
to drink deeply of all that is,
I shall see that Creation
Crowned, with a King.
He has risen. He has risen indeed.
This year lacked a little something for me, though. As I picked up my flowers after church at the empty tomb, it hit me. I've been going through the motions of Easter without celebrating the Resurrection. I NEED the Resurrection. I LOVE the Resurrection. I LIVE because of the Resurrection. And yet... it had taken a backseat in the preparation for Easter.
What was the front seat? Well, I'd love to say that His death was there, but in reality, it was a few rows back.
As I celebrate Easter Monday quietly (because this is the day that I believe Jesus overcame death), I found this poem by Kara Root, a pastor in Minnesota. Enjoy.
I need the Resurrection
because my sister is sick
and can’t afford insurance,
because I’ve told a weeping Haitian mom,
“No, I can’t take your son home with me.”
because I’ve been rushed off a Jerusalem street
so the police could blow up a package that could’ve blown up us.
Because I’ve exploded
in rage
and watched their tiny faces cloud with hurt.
because evil is pervasive
and I participate.
I need the Resurrection
because it promises
that in the end
all wrongs are made right.
Death loses.
Hope triumphs.
And Life and
Love Prevail.
I need the Resurrection
because I’m tired and worn
the hours are long, the pay not enough
the second job barely covers the costs
for the kids to eat
the rent to be paid;
because life throws you some pitches
that you just can’t hit.
Because she left, and
I stayed.
Because some days a good cup of coffee
just isn’t enough.
Because I’m tired. . .
I need the Resurrection
because night gives way to morning,
darkness. . . to light
and because one day: all things will be new.
I need the Resurrection
because this life is so wonderful
despite its fragility;
the softness of dew on the morning grass
The house quiet while all are yet asleep
The promise of a new day.
Because each day comes and goes
And so many have now gone too.
I need the Resurrection
because I want one more day
with those who have already
Gone to sleep.
One more hello
One more long afternoon on the front porch
Telling stories
I’ve heard so many times
But long to hear again.
I need the Resurrection
because the story must not end.
I need the Resurrection
Because life has never
been as it should be
for me
or, I guess, for you.
I’ve never seen a rainbow
Or a lily. . .
a mountain, or a tree.
Yet these ideas are more
than just ideas,
and one day, I shall see.
I need the Resurrection
Because I long to touch, and feel, and smell
and wonder over
forever… this
Clean earth… which has been sullied.
One day, renewed.
And one day, as I use my senses
to drink deeply of all that is,
I shall see that Creation
Crowned, with a King.
He has risen. He has risen indeed.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Slow Down
As I was recounting my road trip from last year with a few different friends, one common theme came up: "I wish I'd slowed down."
Yes, I've been to Oklahoma City, OK. Yes, I've been to Laughlin, NV and Needles, CA. Yes, I've been to Phoenix, AZ. Yes, I've been to Houston, TX. However... I couldn't tell you about any of them except for the traffic.
I wish I could go back and actually spend time getting to know even just one thing about each city. I was in too much of a hurry to get to know anything except the friends that lived in these cities... or the back of my eyelids.
My encouragement for anyone on a journey is to slow down. Take a day or two to rest and enjoy the sights along your journey. Those small moments won't really deter you from getting to your destination, but they will make the journey more fun and enjoyable. Plus, you won't have the regret of "I wish I'd done this or that."
So, next time you see a road sign for "The World's Largest Rocking Chair" (which is one of the side trips I DID take), pull off. It may seem silly, but I know that on the inside you were wishing you could stop. Do it.
Yes, I've been to Oklahoma City, OK. Yes, I've been to Laughlin, NV and Needles, CA. Yes, I've been to Phoenix, AZ. Yes, I've been to Houston, TX. However... I couldn't tell you about any of them except for the traffic.
I wish I could go back and actually spend time getting to know even just one thing about each city. I was in too much of a hurry to get to know anything except the friends that lived in these cities... or the back of my eyelids.
My encouragement for anyone on a journey is to slow down. Take a day or two to rest and enjoy the sights along your journey. Those small moments won't really deter you from getting to your destination, but they will make the journey more fun and enjoyable. Plus, you won't have the regret of "I wish I'd done this or that."
So, next time you see a road sign for "The World's Largest Rocking Chair" (which is one of the side trips I DID take), pull off. It may seem silly, but I know that on the inside you were wishing you could stop. Do it.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Great Loss and Hopelessness
"We have volunteers that come to our program... and then they go home."
I had the great opportunity to have coffee with a guest lecturer at GVSU a week ago. She spoke of her program in Tijuana, Mexico (yes, she only spoke Spanish!) that is working with recently deported to get them back on their feet. As we spoke, she reaffirmed my calling in so many ways.
First, she asked what I knew about the border. She acknowledged that I had obviously done my research and thought that I had a good vision of what was happening.
Second, I asked her what she thinks we can do. She reaffirmed my calling here in two ways:
She stated that we cannot just look at it as a checklist of things to do. We need to change the system. The border is functioning properly according to the policies that the government has put in place. If the machine is working well, obviously the policies are what is flawed.
The other way she confirmed my calling is by making sure that I understand that this isn't something that's going to change overnight. This is something that will take a lifetime to change. She wanted to make sure that I understood that it was a lifelong commitment before I jumped in. I do understand. I get it and I will commit to that.
I couldn't help but think about her statement about workers coming... and then going home... when I read this passage. I've been in those volunteers' shoes. I've gone... and I've worked... and I've gone home. There's been no continuation in the work I did overseas. For selfish reasons, I always thought that it was good work.
As I read about the guys walking down the road to Emmaus and how hurt they were that someone who had come to do good work and then left to go home, I couldn't help but feel for those organizations needed lifelong commitments. The loss and hopelessness of losing volunteers or lack of commitment is one that cannot be ignored.
Thankfully, God didn't think the same way we do. He sent Jesus to do good work in His Name. He died, but He didn't stay dead. He rose again and continues to live today and continues to work among us. Now THAT'S love for a cause.
Luke 24:13-35 - Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him.
He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”
They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?”
“What things?” he asked.
“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.”
He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”
They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.” Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.
I had the great opportunity to have coffee with a guest lecturer at GVSU a week ago. She spoke of her program in Tijuana, Mexico (yes, she only spoke Spanish!) that is working with recently deported to get them back on their feet. As we spoke, she reaffirmed my calling in so many ways.
First, she asked what I knew about the border. She acknowledged that I had obviously done my research and thought that I had a good vision of what was happening.
Second, I asked her what she thinks we can do. She reaffirmed my calling here in two ways:
She stated that we cannot just look at it as a checklist of things to do. We need to change the system. The border is functioning properly according to the policies that the government has put in place. If the machine is working well, obviously the policies are what is flawed.
The other way she confirmed my calling is by making sure that I understand that this isn't something that's going to change overnight. This is something that will take a lifetime to change. She wanted to make sure that I understood that it was a lifelong commitment before I jumped in. I do understand. I get it and I will commit to that.
I couldn't help but think about her statement about workers coming... and then going home... when I read this passage. I've been in those volunteers' shoes. I've gone... and I've worked... and I've gone home. There's been no continuation in the work I did overseas. For selfish reasons, I always thought that it was good work.
As I read about the guys walking down the road to Emmaus and how hurt they were that someone who had come to do good work and then left to go home, I couldn't help but feel for those organizations needed lifelong commitments. The loss and hopelessness of losing volunteers or lack of commitment is one that cannot be ignored.
Thankfully, God didn't think the same way we do. He sent Jesus to do good work in His Name. He died, but He didn't stay dead. He rose again and continues to live today and continues to work among us. Now THAT'S love for a cause.
Luke 24:13-35 - Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him.
He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”
They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?”
“What things?” he asked.
“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.”
He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”
They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.” Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Horoscope... and a step backward?
Uncertainty creeps in as you have to go back to the past, which includes unresolved worry, anxiety or neurosis. Any areas you've skimped on, left behind, ignored or denied, now stand before you. You're only as strong as your weakest link so this week lets you see where you're keeping yourself back, or tripping yourself up. When in doubt, use your imagination to sculpt a new possible destiny. Avoid nagging self doubt or over-complaining. In fact, perhaps you're pushing too far too fast, in which case you'll be afforded many opportunities to surrender in the days ahead. And that's always a challenge for you - when the tides changes, adapt also.
First, a disclaimer: Yes, I read my horoscope. Usually it's not about predicting the future, but it's about providing little bits of inspiration each week. If you're interested in checking it out for yourself, this is the site I read weekly: http://www.newworldastrology.com/Weekly-Scopes.html
I don't believe stars can predict my future, but I do enjoy a good boost of inspiration that is interesting to read and doesn't completely go against my beliefs.
I took a step backward yesterday in more ways than one.
First of all, I went somewhere to meet an old friend from high school. She and I parted ways upon graduation and haven't seen each other since. In the last 11 years, a lot has changed for both of us. However, as she starts over after getting married, getting divorced, getting a career and then changing careers, etc, she decided to meet up with some of her old friends. I was down with that. However, meeting her just felt like a blast from the past. Remember it's been since June of 2001 that I've even seen her. I'm not proud of that, but life took us in different directions.
The second backwards step actually came first, which made it hard to concentrate on the aforementioned meeting. I'd rather not get too much into details because I honestly am not sure how much I want the world to know. An option of closure came around yesterday. It was needed. It was welcomed in the end, after the initial shock, pain and anger played through my mind. It is okay to step backward, as long as there is a force behind you pushing you forward again. I look at it as God's reminders of what He's brought me through, as a promise to always be with me no matter what may come my way.
On a semi-related note, since this topic hasn't been mentioned in a while, Eric and I are still moving forward. It has been so exciting to be on this journey. It has also been amazingly humbling. I was never sure I'd deserve someone as good as him, but God has shown me otherwise. Last night he surprised me with a random gift basket that he put together himself. It wasn't an anniversary or a birthday or any other special occasion... but "just because." We're looking forward to the addition of a new "tradition" to the mix. We made a vow to take time out of our busy schedules to go back to the place of our first date, Richmond park, 3 times a month. We haven't been there in 4 months, so it will nice to go back.
First, a disclaimer: Yes, I read my horoscope. Usually it's not about predicting the future, but it's about providing little bits of inspiration each week. If you're interested in checking it out for yourself, this is the site I read weekly: http://www.newworldastrology.com/Weekly-Scopes.html
I don't believe stars can predict my future, but I do enjoy a good boost of inspiration that is interesting to read and doesn't completely go against my beliefs.
I took a step backward yesterday in more ways than one.
First of all, I went somewhere to meet an old friend from high school. She and I parted ways upon graduation and haven't seen each other since. In the last 11 years, a lot has changed for both of us. However, as she starts over after getting married, getting divorced, getting a career and then changing careers, etc, she decided to meet up with some of her old friends. I was down with that. However, meeting her just felt like a blast from the past. Remember it's been since June of 2001 that I've even seen her. I'm not proud of that, but life took us in different directions.
The second backwards step actually came first, which made it hard to concentrate on the aforementioned meeting. I'd rather not get too much into details because I honestly am not sure how much I want the world to know. An option of closure came around yesterday. It was needed. It was welcomed in the end, after the initial shock, pain and anger played through my mind. It is okay to step backward, as long as there is a force behind you pushing you forward again. I look at it as God's reminders of what He's brought me through, as a promise to always be with me no matter what may come my way.
On a semi-related note, since this topic hasn't been mentioned in a while, Eric and I are still moving forward. It has been so exciting to be on this journey. It has also been amazingly humbling. I was never sure I'd deserve someone as good as him, but God has shown me otherwise. Last night he surprised me with a random gift basket that he put together himself. It wasn't an anniversary or a birthday or any other special occasion... but "just because." We're looking forward to the addition of a new "tradition" to the mix. We made a vow to take time out of our busy schedules to go back to the place of our first date, Richmond park, 3 times a month. We haven't been there in 4 months, so it will nice to go back.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Facing Rejection
I'll never forget the words of some of my friends and family each time my path changes. I'm sure they mean well, but often the words come laced with doubt and worry. The ones that still ring out loudest were "I'll believe it when I see it."
Most recently, a good friend called me crazy for having a calling that seems so dangerous. I'm used to being called crazy. I shouldn't be, but I am. Crazy doesn't phase me anymore and honestly, I've been known to use it myself.
Luke 4:16-30 - He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written:
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. He began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”
All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips. “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?” they asked.
Jesus said to them, “Surely you will quote this proverb to me: ‘Physician, heal yourself!’ And you will tell me, ‘Do here in your hometown what we have heard that you did in Capernaum.’”
“Truly I tell you,” he continued, “no prophet is accepted in his hometown. I assure you that there were many widows in Israel in Elijah’s time, when the sky was shut for three and a half years and there was a severe famine throughout the land. Yet Elijah was not sent to any of them, but to a widow in Zarephath in the region of Sidon. And there were many in Israel with leprosy in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them was cleansed—only Naaman the Syrian.”
All the people in the synagogue were furious when they heard this. They got up, drove him out of the town, and took him to the brow of the hill on which the town was built, in order to throw him off the cliff. But he walked right through the crowd and went on his way.
They drove him out of his hometown. No, I've never experienced that kind of rejection, but I have been driven away from friendships. I've felt laughed out of a place because they thought my dream, my goals, my calling sounded ridiculous.
Thankfully it hasn't happened too recently, but this passage still struck a chord when I read it. They sent Him away and He probably felt a bit discouraged, but it didn't stop Him.
To those who don't believe me or believe in my calling, you will not stop me.
Most recently, a good friend called me crazy for having a calling that seems so dangerous. I'm used to being called crazy. I shouldn't be, but I am. Crazy doesn't phase me anymore and honestly, I've been known to use it myself.
Luke 4:16-30 - He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written:
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. He began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”
All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips. “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?” they asked.
Jesus said to them, “Surely you will quote this proverb to me: ‘Physician, heal yourself!’ And you will tell me, ‘Do here in your hometown what we have heard that you did in Capernaum.’”
“Truly I tell you,” he continued, “no prophet is accepted in his hometown. I assure you that there were many widows in Israel in Elijah’s time, when the sky was shut for three and a half years and there was a severe famine throughout the land. Yet Elijah was not sent to any of them, but to a widow in Zarephath in the region of Sidon. And there were many in Israel with leprosy in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them was cleansed—only Naaman the Syrian.”
All the people in the synagogue were furious when they heard this. They got up, drove him out of the town, and took him to the brow of the hill on which the town was built, in order to throw him off the cliff. But he walked right through the crowd and went on his way.
They drove him out of his hometown. No, I've never experienced that kind of rejection, but I have been driven away from friendships. I've felt laughed out of a place because they thought my dream, my goals, my calling sounded ridiculous.
Thankfully it hasn't happened too recently, but this passage still struck a chord when I read it. They sent Him away and He probably felt a bit discouraged, but it didn't stop Him.
To those who don't believe me or believe in my calling, you will not stop me.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Exodus Experience: A Time of Transition, Journey and New Beginnings
It seems like crossroads happen a lot in my life. Every few days or weeks or months, something happens that leads me down a new path, or at least lights up the dark path on which I was already treading. I can't complain, I rather enjoy new experiences and new adventures... to some extent.
The book of Exodus has taken on some new meaning for me over the last few months. I hope this blog post doesn't come out as a 10 page article highlighting every moment to which I can relate in that long journey, but I have felt impressed to write about a few of them.
I feel like Moses. I was never meant to be in a royal family. No, my mom didn't hide me or wrap me up and send me floating down the Grand River... at least, not that I remember. However, I was adopted into a family that I was not born into. Christ chose to save me not by anything I had done (at least Moses was cute!) and God has called me as His daughter, as His own. I don't deserve it and nor did Moses, but GRACE continues to flow out upon me just like that... each. and. every. day.
I've done some stuff. I've run away. I haven't married a goat-herder, but I've definitely hung out with some stink and filth (and while, yes, I always say that I like my friends "stinky," I'm not referring to my real friends).
It wasn't long ago that I felt the burn, the calling of God upon my life. I remember each experience of the calling and my own doubts along the way --- "I don't WANT to work with middle school kids." "uh... I don't speak Hungarian. I don't even know where Hungary is." "School just isn't my thing... and you want me to do what?!" It seems like every time that God has clearly spoken to me, I counter Him with a statement of not being good enough. Those examples I just gave you are some of the less personal responses. There have been doubts regarding my abilities about everything from looks to personality to fitness levels and even age. Just like Moses in Exodus 4:10, I keep trying to convince God that I'm just not qualified enough for His calling.
Just when I begin to accept God's responses (Exodus 4:11-12), I begin to feel something else. Power. I heard a speaker recently that joked about Moses throwing the rod on the ground then picking up the snake and how if it had been him, he would have played with that for a half hour : rod-snake-rod-snake "cool! look what I can do!" rod-snake-rod-snake, etc. It goes to our heads as if now that we're trusting God with our lives, we're so cool and we let that power, that pride, that glory go to OUR heads instead of where it belongs. That clicked with me. Put down my pride because it's not ME that turns the rod into a snake and back again. It's not me that provides for my every need. It's not me that calls the sun to rise and breeze to blow. It's not me. I must work on my humility.
Moving on...
Then we get the big assignment. We do all the hard labor filled with wonder and/or worry about whether or not it's worth it... when all of a sudden God parts a sea and all we can do is stand or fall and be amazed. Again, I find myself waiting for that big rush of wonder. It will come and probably just like Moses, it will come when I least expect it but most hope for it.
These experiences come and sometimes aren't even recognized. We think it's coincidence or something we did for ourselves. I don't want to live like that. Opposed to the complaints and frustrations expressed by the Israelites, I want to recognize and be grateful for the things God provides and for the things He's brought me through.
I look forward to the new beginnings that come my way so often. I pray that I will continue to see God in and through them, even when it feels like I've been wandering aimlessly and forever. The promise of His plan gives me hope.
The book of Exodus has taken on some new meaning for me over the last few months. I hope this blog post doesn't come out as a 10 page article highlighting every moment to which I can relate in that long journey, but I have felt impressed to write about a few of them.
I feel like Moses. I was never meant to be in a royal family. No, my mom didn't hide me or wrap me up and send me floating down the Grand River... at least, not that I remember. However, I was adopted into a family that I was not born into. Christ chose to save me not by anything I had done (at least Moses was cute!) and God has called me as His daughter, as His own. I don't deserve it and nor did Moses, but GRACE continues to flow out upon me just like that... each. and. every. day.
I've done some stuff. I've run away. I haven't married a goat-herder, but I've definitely hung out with some stink and filth (and while, yes, I always say that I like my friends "stinky," I'm not referring to my real friends).
It wasn't long ago that I felt the burn, the calling of God upon my life. I remember each experience of the calling and my own doubts along the way --- "I don't WANT to work with middle school kids." "uh... I don't speak Hungarian. I don't even know where Hungary is." "School just isn't my thing... and you want me to do what?!" It seems like every time that God has clearly spoken to me, I counter Him with a statement of not being good enough. Those examples I just gave you are some of the less personal responses. There have been doubts regarding my abilities about everything from looks to personality to fitness levels and even age. Just like Moses in Exodus 4:10, I keep trying to convince God that I'm just not qualified enough for His calling.
Just when I begin to accept God's responses (Exodus 4:11-12), I begin to feel something else. Power. I heard a speaker recently that joked about Moses throwing the rod on the ground then picking up the snake and how if it had been him, he would have played with that for a half hour : rod-snake-rod-snake "cool! look what I can do!" rod-snake-rod-snake, etc. It goes to our heads as if now that we're trusting God with our lives, we're so cool and we let that power, that pride, that glory go to OUR heads instead of where it belongs. That clicked with me. Put down my pride because it's not ME that turns the rod into a snake and back again. It's not me that provides for my every need. It's not me that calls the sun to rise and breeze to blow. It's not me. I must work on my humility.
Moving on...
Then we get the big assignment. We do all the hard labor filled with wonder and/or worry about whether or not it's worth it... when all of a sudden God parts a sea and all we can do is stand or fall and be amazed. Again, I find myself waiting for that big rush of wonder. It will come and probably just like Moses, it will come when I least expect it but most hope for it.
These experiences come and sometimes aren't even recognized. We think it's coincidence or something we did for ourselves. I don't want to live like that. Opposed to the complaints and frustrations expressed by the Israelites, I want to recognize and be grateful for the things God provides and for the things He's brought me through.
I look forward to the new beginnings that come my way so often. I pray that I will continue to see God in and through them, even when it feels like I've been wandering aimlessly and forever. The promise of His plan gives me hope.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Continuing Down the Path of Education
This morning I was up extremely early and I prepared myself to go back to sleep (because there was no way I'd make it through my day without a little more sleep!), I decided to be productive.
I had heard that some classes were online and I've been anxious to schedule my final year for weeks now. So, I logged on to my "MyPath" which lays out what exactly I need to graduate. I opened the list I had created 3 months ago with classes I'd like to take and in which semester. I logged onto the registration page, which allowed me to only view the classes that would be offered in the next three semesters. Again, I wasn't able to register, so it's not set in stone, but at least I could get an idea of what my life might look like next year.
It became apparent that it wasn't going to look exactly as I had hoped if I wanted to maintain an open Wednesday schedule for CHAOS Jr. It also became apparent that my Spanish would be evenly distributed between the fall and winter semester, which was something I had hoped for. Unfortunately, not all of the classes available to me due to my time restraints were classes that I'm excited about. Of course, I'll also keep an eye on things to see if another section becomes available for one of the classes I'd rather take.
So, without further ado, check out how my life should look next year.
Fall Semester: August 27 - December 8, 2012
HST 334 (The Making of The Caribbean) - Monday/Wednesday/Friday 11a-12p
LAS 380 (Special Topics: Human Rights in Latin America) - Monday 6-9p
SPA 335 (Introduction to Spanish Linguistics) - Tuesday/Thursday 8:30-9:45a
LAS 210 (Exploring Latin America) - Tuesday/Thursday 4-5:15
SPA 460 (Women Authors) - Tuesday/Thursday 6-7:15
Winter Semester: January 7 - April 26, 2013
LAS 374 (Revolution in The Americas) - Monday/Wednesday/Friday 9-10a
SPA 327 (History of The Spanish Language) - Tuesday/Thursday 1-2:15p
SPA 380 (Special Topics in Culture and Society) - Tuesday/Thursday 2:30-3:45p
SPA 495 (Capstone!!!) - Tuesday/Thursday 6-7:15p
Yes, getting up and going to Allendale on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays is going to be tough during both semesters. And, yes, that's an 8:30a class in the fall. And no, there aren't any music classes. I received word this week that I had already finished my music minor and did not need to register for any further classes for that minor. holla!
Now I just have to wait for March 19th, when registration opens :)
In a year from now, my life will be very different and yet so much the same, though. As I look forward to the exciting decisions I'll have to make, at least I can rest assured that I am actually ON the path.
So the next decision I need to make regarding school is:
On April 27th, 2013 -
do I walk, complete with cap and gown and 4 hour ceremony?
or do I just forgo that tradition and have a party instead?
I had heard that some classes were online and I've been anxious to schedule my final year for weeks now. So, I logged on to my "MyPath" which lays out what exactly I need to graduate. I opened the list I had created 3 months ago with classes I'd like to take and in which semester. I logged onto the registration page, which allowed me to only view the classes that would be offered in the next three semesters. Again, I wasn't able to register, so it's not set in stone, but at least I could get an idea of what my life might look like next year.
It became apparent that it wasn't going to look exactly as I had hoped if I wanted to maintain an open Wednesday schedule for CHAOS Jr. It also became apparent that my Spanish would be evenly distributed between the fall and winter semester, which was something I had hoped for. Unfortunately, not all of the classes available to me due to my time restraints were classes that I'm excited about. Of course, I'll also keep an eye on things to see if another section becomes available for one of the classes I'd rather take.
So, without further ado, check out how my life should look next year.
Fall Semester: August 27 - December 8, 2012
HST 334 (The Making of The Caribbean) - Monday/Wednesday/Friday 11a-12p
LAS 380 (Special Topics: Human Rights in Latin America) - Monday 6-9p
SPA 335 (Introduction to Spanish Linguistics) - Tuesday/Thursday 8:30-9:45a
LAS 210 (Exploring Latin America) - Tuesday/Thursday 4-5:15
SPA 460 (Women Authors) - Tuesday/Thursday 6-7:15
Winter Semester: January 7 - April 26, 2013
LAS 374 (Revolution in The Americas) - Monday/Wednesday/Friday 9-10a
SPA 327 (History of The Spanish Language) - Tuesday/Thursday 1-2:15p
SPA 380 (Special Topics in Culture and Society) - Tuesday/Thursday 2:30-3:45p
SPA 495 (Capstone!!!) - Tuesday/Thursday 6-7:15p
Yes, getting up and going to Allendale on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays is going to be tough during both semesters. And, yes, that's an 8:30a class in the fall. And no, there aren't any music classes. I received word this week that I had already finished my music minor and did not need to register for any further classes for that minor. holla!
Now I just have to wait for March 19th, when registration opens :)
In a year from now, my life will be very different and yet so much the same, though. As I look forward to the exciting decisions I'll have to make, at least I can rest assured that I am actually ON the path.
So the next decision I need to make regarding school is:
On April 27th, 2013 -
do I walk, complete with cap and gown and 4 hour ceremony?
or do I just forgo that tradition and have a party instead?
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