Green Acres...

I'm a city girl at heart. Small town girl by nature of where my parents raised me. And country/farm girl....umm....never.

Well, except for when I'm out in the village.

It's strange really. Maybe it's just a temporary fascination. Like when you go on vacation or during the honeymoon stages of marriage (so I've heard). The change of scenery seems to make everything come alive...if only for a moment.

Today I found myself standing on a hillside, smack-dab in the middle of about 200 sheep and goats, as we arrived to the "dE" in the height of their work day. Men, women and children were working all together, hustling the animals to and fro...cutting their hair, getting their milk, and moving them along to the next step. The animals themselves were making quite the commotion...a symphony of bah's and boo's, grunts and groans...blending together to make a kind of music of sorts.

And there I stood. A bit lost in the moment, yet completely at home in the foreign-ness of it all. I was struck again with how much I love this place and these people...especially those under-served.

Sure I know that I spend, on average, about 24 hours out of my week in the village. That leaves...well, that leaves a lot of other hours remaining. (Sorry all my math friends, I didn't want to think that much.) A lot of other hours that I spend in my nice office or comfortable house. Hours on my computer that's powered by city electricity. Hours in the bathroom where I have more than a hole in the ground and water that runs freely (and HOT water at that!). Hours in my bed...traveling in a car.

Hours that are a far cry from the realities of village life.

So...like I said, maybe my love for the village is a temporary/momentary fascination? For some reason, though, it doesn't seem to stop me from dreaming of living there some day. (Of course, I'm pretty sure the villagers aren't quite ready for a foreigner to move into the neighborhood, nor am I quite ready for such a transition.)

But there's the thought.

And maybe that idea will never come to pass? Maybe a few months down the road I'll look back at this post and ask myself what in the world was I thinking?

But right now...in this moment...I'm basking in His goodness and the privilege I have of spending 24 hours of my week investing in these areas.

For such a time as this...

Request...

A few weeks ago I, along with my national co-workers, were walking along the muddy road of DS village. As we rounded the corner, the cutest little girl, around 12 years old, came running up to us with a plate full of homemade yoghurt. She greeted each of us with her precious smile and warm embrace and then told us that her mother was sending this dish as a "thank you" for our help.

"Thanks for what?," you're asking?

Rewind with me to a couple weeks before that, when our CDP staff had been doing a house-to-house survey in this particular village. Upon arrival into one of the homes, they informed our team that their daughter was ill. After listening to the symptoms, our staff recommended the mental health hospital that was not too far away and was run by another NGO in town (the one they formerly worked for).

The following week, this family took their daughter to that mental health hospital, where she was examined and given medicine which apparently was working. (Hence, the "thank you" plate of yoghurt.)

Until yesterday.

Yesterday our team was back out working in DS when we were told that this little girl had become extremely ill over the weekend. The family had to bring her all the way into the city, where she was/is currently being kept at the hospital.

A little bit ago, I went with one of my co-workers to visit. The sparse conditions of the building only added to the feelings of anxiety and despair that filled the air. After a room-to-room search of bunches of sick little kids, we finally came across "Sally."

Instead of her sweet smile, we were greeted by her mother, as Sally lay their limp and unresponsive. My heart broke.

Sally apparently has a tumor on her brain. The doctors have suggested radiation. The family is trying to decide what to do.

As I sat there, holding Sally's hand, I was at a loss for words. I asked her mom if it would be ok if I prayed for her, and she agreed. It was all that I could do...and everything that I could do.

HE is able to do immeasurably more than all that we ask or imagine.

So now I'm rallying the troops.

Would you please join with me in asking Dad to heal this sweet little girl...."Sally." Would you ask that His power be shown in and through this situation and that somehow, somehow, He would be seen. Would you ask that He would use me and our team to be His instruments of love and peace and presence in this time?

Thank YOU!

I'll keep you posted as I find out more. Until then, I'll meet you before the Throne as we intercede for this precious child and her family....

I just returned from another fun-filled day in the village. My brain is fried, as usual, after 6+ hours of speaking and listening to another language (well, maybe 2 other languages when you consider the villagers practically have their own). I brought my ipod with me today and on our way back in to the city, I informed my co-workers that I was taking a trip to America and would be back by the time we reached the office. They all laughed. I was serious. My head felt like it was going to explode and I needed an escape.

Music. Sweet music.

Now I'm back from my journey and finishing a few things up at the office. I don't really feel like writing out a play-by-play of my day, but I thought I'd share with all of you faithful blog readers some random thoughts that have passed through my mind since this morning. In no particular order....

*Did she really say 10 years old is a good age to get engaged?

*Oh, look at the baby camels grazing on the mountainside!

*The hills are soo green right now. (OK, not "green" like IL in the spring "green", but "green" for the fact that I live in a country which has been in drought for the past 20 years "green.")

*Yep, that little boy definitely just lost his pants in a room full of women. I'm guessing he'll be embarrassed about that some day. Maybe.

*I could use a shower. The second one of the day. Is it really this hot in APRIL??

*I wonder what these women would do if I walked over there and smoked their hooka pipe?

*THIS is exactly what called me to this place 5 years ago. I wonder why it's taken me so long to get here?

One last picture from my day.

Nothing too exciting to blog about. No piercings or tattoos this year. However, I did receive some STRAWBERRY TWIZZLERS! And I even got to share them with my favorite 22 month old...The "D."

Man, I love this kid!!

Just because...

It's my birthday...

I'm...
*Listening to Will Smith's "Switch" on my computer. (And I don't even feel guilty).

*Remembering the fact that this is my 4th birthday since 2002 that I've celebrated in this country. (The picture to the right is from that first trip.)

They've all been memorable. Feathered cakes, salsa dancing, karaoke, dancing in our living room, a Dairy Queen run at the military base. Ahh. Good times. Good times.

*Eating some Girl Scout Thin Mint cookies that I received today in a package from home. Perfect. Simply perfect.

*Looking forward to a grilled chicken ceasar salad for dinner. The month of lettuce has begun!! :)

*Grateful for the well wishes I've received from people near and far. If for nothing else, birthdays are great for getting happy messages from your friends and family! I love it!

Happy Easter Everybody!

It's been a lovely day here in the Ancient City.

Quite a few of the ex-pat community took the day to travel into the countryside a bit and enjoy some time praising Our Creator in the midst of His creation.

And as we sat there--soaking up the beauty, fellowshipping with one another, and savoring some delectable food we brought for a picnic, I couldn't help but be reminded of this...He came to give us life. And not just life meaning the mundane activities that fill up our days. But life in abundance.

I personally hope to continue walking in that abundance...in that goodness...in that fullness of Him.

And I hope that wherever this finds you, you will be able to do the same.

Rejoice! He has risen!

On a positive note...

Sorry if I've been a bit down these last few weeks. It seems like it's been a bit of a roller coaster ride around here lately.

But today is Friday (like Sunday in the States). And it's gorgeous outside. And I'm feeling good.

I spent some time on my rooftop this afternoon--soaking up the Vitamin D, reading "Velvet Elvis," and listening to some happy music.

And even though the challenges of life here don't just seem to disappear, it's nice to have some moments of refreshment in the midst of them.

Rob Bell writes about how being a good "cross-cultural" worker isn't about transporting God from one place to the next. It's about pointing out where God already is. He goes on to say that, "You see God where others don't. And then you point him out."

I love days like today. Days when God is so visible in all His goodness.

He is here.

I just need to help point Him out.

And sometimes...sometimes....I need others to do that for me.

Sometimes my life seems so far out of my control it's not even funny. I'm sure that's how it's supposed to be, what with God being God and all. But still...

Right now I don't really have the words to express all of the reasons why I say that. I just have a heavy heart.

My friends had to close their coffee shop here in town yesterday.
A & J had to move out of their house due to some serious threats on their life.
And in a matter of 3 days my friends' lives have been turned upside down.

Some days the wicked web of sin is so visible in this place, I can hardly stomach it.
And some days it seems as though evil prevails.

But it doesn't.

And I have to fight to convince myself of that.

As I sat with my friends yesterday, offering up chocolate for happiness, I was reminded how little control we have over anything.

Our lives are not our own. The battle is not *ours* to win.

It's HIS.

And in the end...

It all comes back to Him. The One who conquered death to give us life victoriously.

To the one who is “more than just a pretty face”… To the one who has traveled with me to China, Europe and the Middle East… To the one whose mouth once “tasted like a chimney”… To the one whose college roommate believed she was Mary… To the one who has finished 2 Chicago Marathons… To the one who loves McDonald’s as much as I... To the one who was always questioning Owen’s whereabouts, but had no problem following Donna and Dylan as they ran around 90210… To the one who hates Boggle but loves math…. To the one who is a closeted Britney fan… To the one with whom I can do absolutely nothing and still think it was the greatest day ever… To the one who “keeps it real” for dreamers like me (i.e. Why can’t they pick up their trash?)… To the one who can get even the hardest of people to bend with her sweet talk…. To the one who deserves to be the "Golden Apple" teacher every year... To the one who may or may not have tried to look as though she had a "thyroid problem"... To the one who sent the Indians running with her wicked tennis serves... To that "one," I'd just like to say...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

May your day be filled with sunshine, laughter and sweet moments of celebration for a life well-lived. (Of course, cake and ice cream would also be nice!) I love and miss you!!

Photos from the "Day"

In Dari, the word for "village" is pronounced like the English word "day." Appropriately enough, here are some pictures from the "day/ dE."

Besides the fact that my voice sounds as if I've been chain smoking since the time I was in the womb...I'm beginning to feel better!

Some may say it's thanks to the meds, but I'd like to think it's happening because my AMAZING FRIENDS--A & J--brought over CAMPBELL'S TOMATO SOUP yesterday!

Yep, Campbell's Tomato Soup has finally arrived in the Ancient City!

So in honor of the Prophet's birthday (and an extra day off work)--I stayed in my pj's, ate that amazing soup, and scrapbooked. I also may, or may not, have watched several episodes of a t.v. show that I'm ashamed to admit I love (but it starts with: Dawson's and ends with: Creek).

All in all, it's been a lovely day. Tomorrow it's...back to work...April 1st...AND....(drum roll, please)...the CARDINAL'S OPENING DAY!!!!!!!!!!! I should go to bed now to prepare for it all!

Yesterday I thought I was dying. Well, sort of.

Ok, so two days ago I definitely felt some sinus issues coming on. No big deal. I usually end up with a sinus infection or cold this time of year. I could handle it.

However...I was not prepared for the full-on fever, aching, sinus problems, and stomach issues that were to follow! I promise you that there were parts of me hurting that I didn't even realize I had! I'm guessing that my eating out in the villages is finally catching up with me.

The last thing I remember from yesterday, is that before I fell asleep, I prayed..."Please God, take this from me."

Pathetic, huh?

Well, it worked. Almost. My head is still majorly congested, but at least it doesn't hurt to move!

And as I sit here, thankful to be alive :), and finishing up some stuff at the office that I wasn't able to do yesterday, there are a few things that are making me very happy...

1. Rain and cooler temperatures.--I LOVE days like today!
2. Joss Stone (her new stuff and "Soul Sessions") and Jamie Lidell's "A Little Bit More." --If you're looking for some pick-me-up music, try them!
3. The realization that we have a 3 day weekend ahead of us! --Happy Birthday, Mohammad.

So I've been waking up super early these days. Like 5 am early. I don't do that on my own...usually. But the sun's been shining through my windows bright and early and my room has been a little too warm for comfort. (Note to Self: Get some curtains made ASAP!)

I am confident that it will be His grace, and His grace alone, that gets me through the coming summer months. Of this I'm sure.


In other news...it's spring! I love spring (even though it feels like summer right now). And since it's been a while, I've decided to give you some "-ING's." (Don't ask me how "spring" and "-ing" words connect?)

Right Now I'm...
*Display-ing a picture from Busch Stadium on my computer background. (YAY! Go CARDS!)

*Wear-ing my cute, new, polka-dotted flip-flops that Special K sent, along with my cute, new, green head covering that I bought in the Desert with Babs' Birthday money! (THANKS TO YOU BOTH!!)

* Drink-ing a very cold Pepsi. (Well, it's sitting on my desk next to me. I wouldn't want to spill it on Mac now, would I?)

*Watch-ing turbaned men drive by on motorcyles...3 women in burqas walking along the street...and 2 little girls holding hands as they walk to or from school. :)

*Work-ing on finishing up our project's financial reports for the month of March and on a more fun note, I'm creating a new video, which hopefully will be posted on my other website soon.

*Smell-ing lunch being cooked downstairs. It definitely smells like french fries, but the rest will remain a mystery. At least for another 15 minutes.

*Plann-ing what I should bake for tomorrow. My teammate L is leaving next week to go back to the States and get married. We're having a bridal shower for her that will be for both ex-pats and national ladies alike. (I'm just hoping no stupid games with toilet paper are involved!)

*Wish-ing that all my friends would understand Dad's call on their life to come to this land so we could all live nearby and have barbecues and rooftop parties and lots and lots of time to laugh and be.

And last but not least...

*Think-ing that I should get back to work. Even though this time of day is my most unproductive, I should probably try and focus. :)

Sometimes my life is so...what's the word?...extreme. Today, like many others, I find myself coming up short in the word department as I feebly attempt to express what I've just seen and experienced.

This place is such a contrast of beauty and destruction...hope and despair...life and death.

Besides the moment when I watched two old ladies swinging punches at each other and the subsequent conversation I had with my co-workers concerning the WWF that followed...today has been full of heartbreaking stories.

*I surveyed 20 women today and all of them...*ALL*OF*THEM*...have had AT LEAST 2 children die.
*I met with a 12 year old girl who was just married off to a 25 year old man. (TWELVE YEARS OLD!)
*ALL of these families get their drinking water from the sewage ditch.

While the list of stories could drag on, I think I am personally finished for today. My heart is hurting too much. And while I know He is calling the weary to Himself, there are moments like this when I feel the weight of the world on my shoulders.

In case you were wondering, I am alive.

The last 2 days of break with Trickie were packed full of fun. And even though as I type, I’m having a hard time remembering what we actually did…I’m certain that it was good. Right, Tricks? Unfortunately the saying still holds true and all good things really do come to an end.

I said goodbye to my friend late Thursday night (Tricks, I miss you already!) and early Friday morning I made my way back to Ktown. I was supposed to fly out to the Ancient City on Saturday, but after sitting in the airport for 6 hours, they finally just canceled the flight. This seems to be a trend for my traveling adventures in this country so I guess I’ll chalk it up to that.

I eventually made it home on Sunday and on Monday afternoon the family that I live with, along with a team of 7 doctors and nurses from the US, also arrived to our house. I’m convinced that nothing says “Get back to work,” like taking a short-term team out to 2 villages for a 2-day adventure. Somehow I found myself thrust back into the thick of the culture here, as the ladies needed a female translator and there was no one else to help out.

But even though it’s been a chaotic start back into life here, I am happy to be home. I honestly think this is one of the first times since I’ve been working in CA that I can say that after a break and it feels good. It feels very good.

Today begins our weekend and as I sip my freshly brewed Starbucks and prepare to spend some quality time with Dad, I am once again reminded that I am exactly where I am supposed to be.

So I'll leave you with that for now. Happy New Year's & SPRING Everyone...
(March 21st is the first day of the year for the calendar used here. The year is now 1386.)

It's been a busy couple of days here in Vacation Land. For all of you keeping track out there, here's the scoop.

Day 1: Tricks arrived late. And after enjoying Christmas in March with me (thanks EVERYONE for the goods!), we headed off to sleep.

Day 2: What better way to get rid of jetlag and to be initiated into this city than...to shop. We spent the entire day at the largest mall in the world outside of North America. (Correction: Trix just said that we were "probably only at the mall for 5 hours." Apparently that's not a lot of time!) Afterwards we waited in traffic for what seemed to me an equal amount of hours. Uggh. Our attempt at finding the horse racing was to no avail but we did manage to see some camels and eventually made it to another location where we watched "Flashdance" on the big screen under the stars. The movie wasn't the greatest but it was so fun to be outside, sitting on a rooftop in bean bags, enjoying the amazing weather!

Day 3: Sunshine and surf. Ok, not really, because I was too afraid of the freaking jellyfish that were lining the shore to actually get in and swim much. I kept having memories of that "Friends" epidsode--the one where Joey gets stung by a jellyfish and someone has to urinate on him to make the sting go away. Yeah. No thanks! We did manage to enjoy lots of sunshine..a highschool dance off (picture in your mind "West Side Story")...and the lack of gawking men thanks to the fact that it was "Ladies Day."

Later that evening we went to the Hard Rock Cafe and enjoyed the live music. Check out the "Rockstars" pictured here. (Don't look too closely or you might notice that our signs are a little off.)

Day 4: It started out with a leisurely morning hanging around the house. Trix napped and I did laundry. (Special K sent over Tide AND Downey Simple Pleasures!!! I'm in heaven!) We hit McDonald's for lunch and then headed off for a desert safari.

A few highlights from that adventure include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Dune Bashing...driving sideways, straight up, and straight down and any other way the driver could take us to get a squeel.
2. Camels & Sunset
3. Knee injury from trying to climb a steep dune to see the last of said sunset. (see photo)
4. Crazy Indian dancers
5. Henna tattoos (nasty, according to Trix)
6. Shisha Pipes (AKA "henna pipes" according to Trix)
7. A much calmer ride back to the house

And now lots of laughs as we've relived these memories trying to share them with you. :)

Isn't life grand?

Vacations...Vacations.
How do I love thee?
Let me count the ways...

*Sunshine
*Starbucks
*Cute clothes
*Freedom
*Late nights
*Sleep
*IKEA
*Shopping
*McDonald's
*Laughter
*Outdoor dining...napping...and anything else I want to do
*The Ocean (well, Gulf)
*Fresh pineapple and strawberries and avocado...oh my!
*Swimming
*Rest
*And in just a few short hours....

TRICKIE!! :)

And THIS is why I love this show...

"We all think that we are going to be great.
And we feel a little bit robbed when our expectations aren’t met.
But sometimes our expectations sell us short.
Sometimes the expected simply pales in comparison to the unexpected.
You gotta wonder why we cling to our expectations.
Because the expected is just what keeps us steady…standing…still.
The expected is just the beginning.
The unexpected is what changes our lives. "

~Grey's Anatomy (Episode: Great Expectations)

A Photo and Memories

All photographs are there to remind us of what we forget.
In this - as in other ways - they are the opposite of paintings.
Paintings record what the painter remembers.
Because each one of us forgets different things, a photo more than a painting may change its meaning according to who is looking at it.
~John Berger

Above you will see an image of my sweet friend and I hanging out last week. Just looking at it brings a smile to my face and reminds me just how very much I love that girl.

Although it had been over a year since I last saw her, it seemed like mere days upon our reunion. The hours that we shared ran together with laughter...conversation...new music...coffee...God...men...dreams...apple pie...and Apple computers. Dad has led us on quite the journey since our days teaching across the hall from each other at KIA. And while I'm still waiting for HIM to place us back together in the same location (Remember your email J!), I'll take any moment I can get to enjoy the blessings of this sweet friendship.

Now, I'm not sure what you see when you look at this picture. But if the quote above holds true, then I'm guessing the meaning for you is something different. Now, I'm not really into telling people what they should see or think. But I'd really like to hear your thoughts.

You see, The Crushing One and I challenged each other to blog about our day and see who could get the most comments. Of course, neither of us are really that into rules, and so it's not really clear as to how we will determine the winner. All I know is that, in the end, the loser owes the winner a dinner out on the town. (I'm pretty sure we just wanted an excuse to go out!)

So...click on her name above and see what she had to say about our time together. Then leave a comment for whoever you thought said it better. :)

I know what I think when I look at this picture. And I also know that no matter how much time passes between our visits, I won't forget. I couldn't. This girl has left her mark. And I'm a better person because of it.

Thanks J!!!

I don't remember whose idea it was to go by bus from the north central region of the country to Ktown (read: my own stupidity), but I was pretty sure I was going to die before I actually arrived. (Obviously that didn't come to pass.) I made it. After 3 slips on the ice and 1 semi-accident which involved our bus sliding off of the road and hitting the wall of the mountain tunnel (just a bit)...Ktown never looked so good. Who knew 10 hours could feel like eternity?

But I made it. PTL! And for the next few days that followed, I enjoyed good friends, fresh snowfall, and lots of coffee in the city that I once called "home." Ahh. Good times.

So here are a few pics from my time in the north.
*The kid in the picture above has the most amazing eyes.
*The ladies that you see with me were also attending the seminar. Their nationalities are Irish, Kazakh, German/Romanian, & Korean. We went out for dinner that evening and around the table sat 9 people--8 different nationalities and the ability to speak 13 different languages. It's moments like that which give me a true picture of His very culturally diverse Bride. I love it!
*And lastly the picture to the right is of a man outside the mosque. I'm not sure if it's his job, but he sure had a way with those birds.

Now I have one picture left to share from my last 2 weeks, but I will save it for a post all its own. Maybe tomorrow?

4 more days until I get to see Trickie!!! :)

“Everything you love is what makes a life worth living.”
~John Eldredge

Things I Love…
Rainy days
Sunshine
Green, green grass
Gerber Daisies
The Ocean—the sound, its vastness, the smell, etc.
Ice Cream
McDonald’s
God
My family
My friends
Children—everything about them—esp. Little D, H, C&C
Music of all kinds
Going fast
Motorcycles
Concerts
Dancing
Flip-flops
Baseball—and everything associated with it
STL Cardinals
The changing of the seasons
Snow
Chick Flicks
You’ve Got Mail
New York City
Starbucks
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
The Gap
Shopping
Pink
Blue
Green
Blue Skies
Fireside chats
Star gazing
My Macbook
My ipod
Skirts (with no pants underneath)
Bookstores
Magazines--InStyle, Real Simple, US Weekly, Time
Convertibles
Scrapbooking
Margaritas
Downey Simple Pleasures
Clean Sheets—hung on the line
Twizzlers
Charleston Chews Minis
Grilled pork chops & steamed asparagus
Laughing/ laughter
Candles
White twinkle Lights
Christmas
Dreams
Movie Star Sunglasses
Photographs
My nose ring
Bubble Baths
Hot Showers
Long drives—either alone or with friends
Gilmore Girls
Grey’s Anatomy
Dawson & Felicity
Deep Conversations
Doing Laundry—in a real machine
Pottery Barn Catalogues
Mountains
Art
Italy
Pepsi over ice
Good writing
Life
Grilled cheese & Campbell’s Tomato Soup
Packages sent from home
Staying up late
Spending all day on the water—in a boat or on jet skis or swimming
Lazy Mornings
South America
Central Asia
Starting out a story with, “Back in ‘Nam”
Traveling—seeing the world
Thinking outside the box
Acoustic Guitars
Children’s Books
Wireless Internet (the faster the better)
Wearing my hair down and not covering my head
Electricity
Playing tennis
Slumber Parties
Daring my friends (and vice versa)
Chili's
Staying up late
Sleeping in

This list was brought to you by a very bored Strawberry Blonde sitting hours on end in a training seminar.
This post was based on an idea seen by a fellow blogger
and
has successfully taken the author's mind off of her current situation.
THANK YOU!

It’s snowing here today. I’m in a different city. It hardly ever snows here in this particular place, but there seems to be a trend. Whenever I travel within this country… snow happens.

I’m not complaining. It has reminded me that it is still February. I just wish I wasn’t cramped into this small room and very bored with my 8 hour-a-day training. Uggh. Where’s Starbucks when you need it?

BUT apart from my lackluster training experience, I am enjoying seeing another part of this country. This city is what I would picture for a Central Asian nation, with a large influence coming in from its northern neighbor. The people look more Asian. Horses are used for the transportation of both goods and people. A delicious, round style of bread is sold on nearly every corner. And while I’ve only seen a small portion of this place, it's reminded me how incredibly diverse this country truly is.

It’s been a blessing to spend some time with some dear friends from my early days in Ktown who have been living in this city for a few years. They are always encouraging…always challenging…and great at asking good questions. I’m now praying that Dad will direct them to the Ancient City!

I’ve also been staying with a couple that, before now, I had only heard about from others. They are gentle spirits and hospitable beyond words. They are people who have lived through being held captive for 6 months, a massive attack of grenades and bombers, and the list could go on. Still they choose to live here. Still they choose to love the people who have caused them an infinite amount of pain and hardships. I’m humbled in the midst of these faithful saints and so very grateful for this time to learn from them.

Then on Thursday I’m hoping to go by road from here to Ktown with my Kazakh co-worker. There’s a bus that leaves early in the morning and depending on the weather and road conditions, we should arrive within 7-10 hours. I’ve heard it’s a beautiful trip and a fun little adventure. My thought: Why fly when you could have the possibility of being stuck in a snowed-in pass for several hours on a bus with hundreds of other nationals? Imagine the fun!

Stay tuned for more stories…

Last night a group of us were hanging out. It was Barista N's last night in the city, K had unexpectedly landed here for 24 hours on her way to Ktown, and I was successfully avoiding some guests we had staying at our house. (That's terrible, I know. But I don't feel like explaining the situation.)

Anyway, we started talking about food and restaurants we were missing from the States. (This kind of conversation occurs on a regular basis.) I made the comment that, very soon I would be eating McDonald's. I proceeded to say that, "Unfortunately, the McDonald's where I'm going does not serve Shamrock Shakes."

And that's when the crowd turned on me. First in disbelief. Then in laughter. Nobody in the room had ever heard of such a treat!

I went on to explain that every year, from mid-February to the end of March, McDonald's serves this incredible "shamrock shake" that's green and mint flavored. I told them this tradition has been dated at least as far back as my freshman year in college. The mob (aka my friends) then pointed out that that was a long time ago. I believe one person even went so far as to say, "You remember this because you were in college. We only cared about what came in our Happy Meals at that time!"

So, I'm old. Older than everyone in that room, at least. But I WASN'T making it up!

As this discussion continued, I forced A to get online and google "shamrock shakes McDonald's." I thought then my point would be made.

Wrong.

Then THEIR point about my age was only made stronger as this is what was written on some website...

In days past, when the world was young and light of heart, old and young alike could walk down Main Street in early Spring with the birds singing and the flowers just starting to bloom. Invariably, those walks would end at the quaint burger shop on the corner, the local McDonald's. And on those days in March, a special treat would await those who braved the drizzle: a tasty, frothy, Shamrock Shake. Oh yes, and what a treat it was. Peppermint flavored and colored green, the Shamrock Shake was a celebration of Irish heritage at its best. No green colored Budweiser or stupid pilgrim hat painted green for the change of season could compare to the purity that was the Shamrock Shake. So delicious, the whole family would climb into the wagon (or minivan, whatever) and each get a large scrumptious taste of St. Patrick's Day.

Alas, those carefree days are gone. McDonald's is no longer the 'shop around the corner' serving up a wholesome burger and fries while you hang with your high school gang. It's now some faceless, greedy, multibillion dollar, 39 cent hamburger factory. No, those days have past, and we must move on. The Shamrock Shake has gone the way of the poodle skirt and the Hammer pants. But we shall never forget thee, you taught us what St. Patrick's Day was all about and announced the coming of Spring to all who would listen.

---

Yeah. I lost the argument.

I did, however, prove that Shamrock Shakes do indeed exist. Mainly in Ireland and to this day in a limited number of locations. I guess, lucky for me, IL was just one such state!

SO the moral of the story is this...

Eat, drink and be merry.
For you never know when McDonald's will stop serving your favorite treat!

I hate cilantro. Hate it. And don't tell me that I should give it a try. I lived in South America for over a year. It NEVER grew on me.

Today we had cilantro in our lunch. I tried to pick around it but it was to no avail. And now...an hour and a half later, that flavor lingers on. Uggh.

So I just want it to be known that this is me. The Strawberry Blonde. Lover of coffee...all things creative...chick flicks...Cardinal's baseball...McDonald's...etc. Hater of cilantro.

Take me or leave me.

My thoughts are muddled right now as I've sat down to write about my experiences of this past week. I am not really sure how to begin or where to end. I feel as though every day has been full and worthy of expressing and sharing, yet somehow...words seem insufficient in this moment.


This week...
I spent 4 days out visiting 10 different villages with my 4 other national staff.
Man, I wish you all could see this place...these people. (And those of you who have only been in Ktown…there’s a whole other world that we’ve missed out on!) I found myself wanting to take a million pictures as we drove off into these seemingly uncharted territories. I refrained for cultural and relational reasons, but I just kept thinking how National Geographic would kill to get a glimpse of what I was seeing. But I am also confident, that even if I did get some shots, a camera wouldn't do justice to the beauty that was before my eyes.

Seriously. The landscape of this country continues to take my breath away. Of course, there’s the obvious beauty found in its rugged and desolate terrain. The way the mountains cut into the sky…the clouds that cover the road at a certain altitude…the river that rushes by as the snow melts from the beginnings of spring. But I tell you; it’s the faces of these people that have captivated my heart. Their espresso eyes…lines on their faces…toothless smiles. I found myself mesmerized a million times over this week.

This week…
I watched women hope--most for the first time in who knows how long.
After a thousand and one greetings and a mile long list of needs (clean water, doctors, medicine, education, jobs, cars, etc.), our team shared with these ladies the hope of empowerment. Instead of bringing a doctor to this village for one month or two, we’ll figure out the root of the problem (i.e. what’s causing them to be sick in the first place) and learn how to stop it. It’s education in its simplest form. But in the period of our hour-long conversation, I saw their countenance change and their spirits lift. There IS a way out of their suffering. There IS a reason to hope once again.

This week…
I moved to a new house.
This is the fifth time I’ve moved since November, and I’m happy to say that I think this is it for a while (barring any major outside issues that may arise). Lord, let it be so.

This week…
We moved to a new office.
Yes, that’s right. Not only did we move houses, we also pretty much simultaneously moved office buildings as well. Needless to say, things have been a bit chaotic and un-orderly for the past several days!

This week..
Our team has been wrestling with how to help a brother who has come to us because his life is being threatened because of his beliefs.
Man, they don't teach you about this stuff in college. There are no pat answers. But oh, how I wish there were. My heart aches at the realities of this nation. But I am also encouraged, because I know that HE is working in this place.

So that's a brief overview of my week. I'm exhausted and would appreciate your prayers.

Tomorrow we will be hosting a national couple for the remainder of the week and on Thursday, Lord willing, I will head out to another city for a week of training and then on to Ktown and then to see Trix in the desert region! :)

Yesterday.

I don't know what it was, but the world seemed to be against me. It probably all centered around the fact that I didn't have my morning coffee, but that's neither here nor there.

I was frustrated.
No electricity. Nosy government workers. No clean laundry. A dust storm in FEBRUARY. Interruptions.

Yesterday was just one of "those days."

And just when I had pretty much resigned myself to a day of accomplishing absolutely NOTHING and remaining frustrated in spite of my mental "10 Things For Which to be Thankful" list I made while walking home from the office, everything seemed to change upon opening my front door.

It was his excitement. His adorable face. Hearing him yell "LoLo!!" Those big blue eyes. The way he came running out with open arms to greet me. Sigh. It was exactly what my heart needed in order to remember that the world really wasn't/isn't all that bad.

Little D. The cutest 20 month old I know. And all the reason a person needs to smile.

So after asking permission from his mom, I took Little D down to the coffee shop (yes, we have one of those here). He went crazy for the donut holes. I went crazy for the double shot caramel macchiato. We sang "The Wheels on the Bus." We visited with N, our amazing barista. :) We looked at pictures in National Geographic. And on our way home, we bought naan. (The D's favorite!)

So what if I didn't accomplish anything? I had a date with Little D. And that...that made all the difference.

So I've been trying to figure out a way to post a new photo in the "About Me" section, but have been unsuccessful up to this point. I'm going to try it here and see what happens. Sorry to disappoint if you thought I had shared some great, exciting news on life in this place. :)

It's February, people! Can you believe it? I can't. Maybe it's because these past 2 weeks have felt more like March or April, what with the 70 degree temps and abundance of sunshine. Perhaps my brain just skipped past the last part of winter?

Nope.

It's back. Today the rain is pattering quietly outside my window and the temperature is a bit colder. I have Joe Purdy playing in the back ground. (If you're not familiar with him...you should be.) His song, "I Love the Rain the Most" is perfect for a day like this. If only I didn't have work and language lessons today. I could curl up with a good book...a steaming cup of coffee...and I might possibly be ambitious enough to make some homemade chocolate chip cookies. It would be great. If only.

I think I am in a dreaming mode as of late. Both day-dreaming (as my mind is full of random distractions) and big dreaming. And this disposition was only encouraged when, on Wednesday, our team spent the entire afternoon together reflecting and praying over questions such as the following:

If the Kingdom of God were to come to this city, what would it look?
How would things look differently?

It was a wonderful time. And one I hope that we continue in the future.

Visions and dreams are how He often works in this place. I wonder how come I rarely ask Him what His are for today?

News

Did you people know that my *ex* Harry just came out with a new album??? The same day as my friend Norah J too.

Now, I knew about Norah's upcoming premiere, but Harry? ...Well, I think he's still heartbroken and bitter about the break up.

It's ok. It takes time to heal. I understand.

(If you don't know what I'm talking about, you can find the answer in my September 2005 archives.)

Also, I just got an email from Derek Webb. How come when I see his name in my inbox, I think that he's somehow *personally* emailing me? Really. They need to change that.

Randomness

I'm back.

I'm sure some of you didn't even notice that I was gone, but I've been unable to sign in to blogger the past several days due to low power in the office. I really hadn't planned on leaving you all with that last post. I'm sure the few men that read this will be glad to see I've moved on. :)

SO...not a lot is going on. I don't have anything profound or funny to share. But here's the randomness that's happening in my world:

*I'm moving this next month...AGAIN. I'm pretty sure one person shouldn't move as much as I have in one year, but I guess that's life. Our lease is up in March and since there are all sorts of problems with the current location, we've decided it's best to look elsewhere. We've found one house and we'll probably know by this week if it's ours.

*Monday is a national holiday. This time we are on mandatory *lock down*. (Last year, this city went a little haywire with riots and shootings and what not.) I'm actually excited. Not about the potential for violence, of course, but about having a whole day to stay in and do nothing! ...Unless of course we get evacuated or something. That would put a damper on my "pajama day."

*The Crushing One has made it back to Ktown and soon she is going to come visit me here!! I can't wait! I miss her. Welcome *home* J-jan!

*In 42 days I will be hanging out with this person . Spring break, BABY! (In the M.E.! Who would have thought?)

*I've been hanging out on my rooftop (per my "To Do List in 2007") a lot this past week. It's been gorgeous here, weather-wise, and the sunshine was calling my name. A good cup of coffee...the warmth of the sun...the sounds of the city below. It does a heart good. I guess I'm making up for the Vitamin D deficiency of winter.

Now, the only thing better would be if I could go play tennis. :)

Ahh. Dreams.

MEN: Beware of the following contents!

OK, men, if you are still reading this, don't say I didn't warn you!

So I just had the funniest conversation with one of my national (female) co-workers.

I was walking back up the stairs to my office after talking with a couple of them, when I hear, "L, Do you have any good things?" "Good things?" I replied. "Yes, good things," she said while motioning to her abdominal area. "For females?" I said. "Yes," she responded.

Never in my life have I thought of feminine hygiene products as "good things" but I guess that's what they're called over here. :) It made me smile.

Afterwards, she asked me what I called them in English and then we proceeded to have a conversation about the personal woes of the female monthly visitor. We joked about PMS and how our backs hurt or how we get emotional. I told her sometimes I find it easy to cry. She said sometimes she likes to fight. We carried on with this conversation for about 5 minutes and afterwards I thought what a funny, bonding moment I just had.

Isn't it interesting how some things are the same...no matter geography or age?

Say What?

Language Learning. ...I'm at it again.

My tutor is amazingly gracious and our 2 hours a day together just seems to fly by. She speaks some English--which can be helpful and funny all at the same time.

Take for example, yesterday. During our lesson, she would say a word in English and I was supposed to translate. Then we came to this point:

Tutor: Sex.
Me: What?

Tutor: Sex.
Me: Sex?

Tutor: Yes. Sex.
Me: Ummm...Do you mean "sex" as in "gender--female or male?" (Me thinking in my mind--I hope she doesn't mean the other.)

Tutor: No. I mean the number.
Me: OOOHH. (With a sigh of relief and a giggle.) "sIx!"

Tutor: Yes, sex.
Me: ShIsh. (The number)


And besides all the fun conversation, I'm learning to read and write again. And I say "again" because I started this a couple years back, but I didn't get very far and I've forgotten most of it anyway. Today I was reading my first grade reader book and cracked myself up because I was totally sounding out each letter like a little kid.

I'm pretty sure I could do a commercial here for "Hooked On Phonics!"

No more "whole language" for me, Tricks! ;)

Anyway, you can click on the picture above to zoom in and see my new skills! Be impressed, people. Be very impressed. :)

I remember a professor of mine from college saying that there are certain books that he re-reads on a yearly basis. Spiritual classics, if you will. They were titles like: A Celebration of Discipline, The Pursuit of God, etc.

Well, this week I re-read "Blue Like Jazz" and I was thinking that that's a title that should be added to my list of annual reads. It was like catching up with an old friend. One who makes you laugh and think all at the same time.

I was also thinking that Donald Miller and I should get married. Of course, he'd have to change his name. (The first one.) Either that, or let me call him "D." He seems like the kind of guy who would be OK with that.

I'm sure if he knew me, we would make a great match.

So D, if you are reading this...call me. :)

I've been walking to work the past few days. As I walk, I like to imagine myself in that beginning scene of "You've Got Mail" where Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks are on their way to work. Of course, I don't have a Starbucks within which I can stop and pick up my morning latte. And instead of being dressed in a cute little skirt and scarf, I'm covered from head to toe in a black chador. But other than that...the scene is EXACTLY the same.

The Cranberries' song plays in my head. The shopkeepers are pushing up the large metal doors to open their stores. I smell the scent of fresh, hot bread as I pass the breadmaker. A little boy almost runs into me as he has his nose in a book and is hurried on his way to somewhere. The sun shines brightly and warms me in spite of the cold air. I stop by the fruit stand to pick up a banana to snack on before lunch.

And in my mind...I am Kathleen Kelly. If only for the 12 minute walk to the office.

Today is my little sister's 28th birthday.

And here is a list of 28 things I love about her...
1. I love her naturally rosy cheeks and beautiful complexion.
2. I love her love of all things "reality show."
3. I love her impeccable sense of style...especially when it comes to shoes.
4. I love that she loves the Cardinals!
5. I love her flare for the dramatic.
6. I love that she can appreciate the "finer things" of life.
7. I love the secrets that we share.
8. I love that she radiates heat while she sleeps (opposite of me).
9. I love that when she was little, she could make friends within 5 seconds flat.
10. I love it that, at a young age, she learned that it was OK to be different than her big sister.
11. I love how well she knows pop culture.
12. I love the blackmail that we have on each other. (i.e. powder puff girl, past boyfriends, etc.)
13. I love her blog. (If only she'd write more! :)
14. I love that, even though she could be settled for the rest of her life, she's not afraid to keep running after her dreams.
15. I love that she's happily married to a wonderful man who cherishes her.
16. I love how she makes me laugh.
17. I love that she can cook and sew, and has known how to do both for a very long time. (I'm still learning.)
18. I love her sensitive heart and ability to cry.
19. I love that she didn't tell on me to mom and dad (all the time) when we were kids.
20. I love how we've moved from just "sisters" to "friends."
21. I love that she loves to dance...esp. at family weddings. :)
22. I love how she's not afraid to speak her mind.
23. I love the fact that she often knows what I'm thinking with just a look.
24. I love it that she stinks at math...just like me. :)
25. I love how smart she is any so many other ways.
26. I love how naturally beautiful she is.
27. I love how her eyes get lost in her smile.
28. And most of all, I love that she's my sister--a bond that can never be broken.


I still remember the day that mom and dad called from the hospital telling me you were born. I wanted to name you and I think they humored me a bit, until obviously their name won out.

I remember them bringing you home...your thick, dark hair, pink cheeks and beautiful blue eyes. I was mesmerized.

I remember teaching you how to ride a bike for the first time...or at least pushing you down that hill at the end of our street and hoping that you'd figure it out before you were hurt too bad.

I remember watching you fall off that slide and break your arm. Sheer terror had struck. (1.) Would you be ok? (2.) How much trouble would I be in?

I remember our family vacations...playing in our play room on Noleman St...swimming together in the summer...getting you all ready for your first dance...watching you graduate college...

I remember your wedding day and how stunningly beautiful you looked.

And for all of those memories listed (and the ones that didn't make the cut) and to the millions more to come...I just want to say thanks.
What an amazing gift I've been given to have you as a sister.
I love you, L. More than you'll ever know.

Happy 28th Birthday!!!!

Confessional: Every now and then I pull out an article of clothing that I have yet to wear in this country.

I put it on to find that it still smells like Downey Simple Pleasures.

And Downey Simple Pleasures smells so good...so comforting...so much like "home," that I want to take it off and put it away so that it smells that good...that comforting...that much like "home" forever.

…And just like that, it’s Saturday again.

It’s been a crazy week. I’m not going to lie. Last night I went to bed at 8:30pm and slept until 7am this morning. For those of you who know me, you know that’s not normal! I’m a night owl by nature, but lately (especially this week) I’ve been exhausted.

And you know that “To Do List” I had posted for 2007? Well, I’ve decided it’s a lot easier to write about things than it is to really live them. The first thing on my list was tested yesterday, when I was invited to a national co-workers brother’s wedding.

I wish I could tell you that I was thrilled to be invited and couldn’t wait for the opportunity to invest in these people and learn more of their culture. …I can’t. I didn’t want to go. After dropping H off at the airport that morning, all I wanted to do was unpack my things and finally settle into my own room. The introvert in me was screaming for some alone time, but the list I had written was telling me there’d be time for that later.

The list was right.

A few of us girls went to the wedding around 12pm and stayed until about 4pm. We even got to see the bride and groom (which doesn’t always happen unless you stay 7-10 hours). We danced for the small number of female guests (around 250 or so--I'm pretty sure they were impressed--Ha!). We ate a nice meal. We enjoyed the “fashion show” of the female attire. And I even learned two valuable lessons about this culture.

1. When at a wedding, the key to looking your best is this: Reapply…Reapply…Reapply! Your makeup that is. As if you weren’t wearing enough, it’s important (especially after you eat) to pull out your mirror, hairbrush and full-on makeup kit and reapply and re-do yourself. It’s even good if you bring a change of clothes and change after lunch into a second dress. This is your time to shine, ladies! Make a statement!

2. I figured out that this country’s motto, should they ever need one, should be this:
Without tea, the people will perish.
Seriously! My friends and I are always laughing as these people bring their tea thermoses EVERYWHERE! (As if you will ever find yourself somewhere without tea!) On the plane…to a wedding…wherever you go, don’t forget your tea!

All-in-all, I was happy that I went, but I was also happy to get home. I'm guessing I need a little bit of both in my life to keep me sane. Some going out and some coming home. One helps me appreciate the other.

Making a list...

2007
To Do's:
(I'm sure there are more to add, but this is a start.)

*Take every opportunity to invest in, & learn from, these people…even when you don’t “feel” like it.

*Kneel more. Bow more. Remember that you’re very, very small.

*Make one day a week “yours” and “His.”

*Live on less.

*Learn to make national food. You may not be here forever and there may be a day that you’ll come to miss it. Maybe.

*Take more photographs. (This place is too “photo-rich” to miss things.)

*Make a fool of yourself with language. It’s ok. You’ll have stories to laugh about later.

*Memorize one verse every week. Remember you want to be like Mary who “treasured up all these things in her heart” and not like the crazy old lady at the nursing home who can only remember curse words.

*Laugh everyday.

*Hug more. (Except the opposite gender. This culture won’t allow it.)

*Seek humility. Admit mistakes.

*Learn to live in the Ancient City. Enjoy it. This is the answer to your prayers.

*Make it a point to hang out on your rooftop. You can see the mountains...the stars…the
neighborhood….and for a bonus, you can even spy on your neighbors. ;)

*Don’t get mad at rickshaw drivers. They may very well be trying to take advantage of your foreign-ness. Remember: they have far less than you.

*Remind yourself regularly that it’s worth the risk. Always.

*Play hide & seek with a 4 year old at least once a week. You’ll laugh. They’ll laugh. The troubles of your day will seem meaningless in the end.

*Create. Create. Create. ...And then create some more. (Pictures, writing, scrapbooks, etc.)

*Be vulnerable. With others. With God. With yourself. You can do it.

*Find purpose in each day.

*Remember, you're going to be OK.

So what's on your list?

And the answer...

To all my friends who were concerned I may be moving to South America...or getting beat up...

Here's the answer to my year's theme.

2007=The Year of the Pinata

Also known as...."The Year of Undiscovered Contents--the surprises that come after life's kicked you around a bit."


(Thanks Felicity, for your inspiration.)

2007

2007
"The Year of the Piñata"

Any guesses as to why this theme?