Thursday, June 28, 2012

wisdom

Today as I was gearing up for this interview Brian gave me three words of advice.

1. put your little hand in God's big hand
2. smile
3. LOVE the people you meet

So I'm off to do that in about 5 minutes...


Wednesday, June 20, 2012

God is near

Today was a FABULOUS day! Steve Klassen, who runs the Mark Centre came and did a session with us this morning. He inspires me! Such a wise man, who embraces a lifestyle of listening to God and encouraging others to acknowledge the good things in our lives as blessings from the hand of God. He invites us to share stories and it is so good to be able to hear these testimonies from everyone. Whenever Steve talks with us, he invites us to slowly meditate on Scripture and to listen to the voice of God in community. I love the way he shares with such confidence that God is and will continue to speak to us. He has a love relationship with Jesus and spends time in His presence everyday, seeking His ways and approaching life with a receptive heart.

Here is the poem we read this morning.
 I'd encourage you to sit on it. meditate on it and contemplate it.

"Follow Jesus around the Scriptures- be an observer,
watch how he looks
watch how he touches
watch how he is present to people
watch how he prays and takes time out

Let him look at you
Let him touch you
Let him hold you
Let him heal you
Let him be present to you

Then become the look
Become the touch
Become the presence." - By Doreen Kostynuik


Actually, I'd encourage you to read it again for a second time.

After we read it, Steve asked us to tell a story of a time we knew God "looked at us" during these months. Then we were encouraged to share stories of when we became the look, the touch or the presence to others around us. This is giving God his glory.

I am reminded of the many many times I felt God's embrace while I was away. I am aware that we carry His presence to this world. "Each day we expose people to the Gospel with our lives" (David) all because Christ dwells in us (Romans 8:11 and 1 John 3:24) and his presence in us enables us to love. Abiding in Christ allows us to love others more fully.

Monday, June 18, 2012

Happy Father's Day


My dad
means the world to me
He would do anything for me.
I love him with all my heart.

Best thing is that I arrived home on Father's Day!

Saturday, June 16, 2012

Awakening


a.w.a.k.e.n.i.n.g.
It was my prayer this morning as I finally took the worship flags I had made down to the seaside
and let the wind blow them. Songs of praise flooded from my heart and words of the declaration of the
reign of God soared over this land. Jesus awaken hearts in this nation to know you, as Father and Saviour.

My playlist: 10 000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)- Matt Redman, White Flag- Passion, Here for You- Chris Tomlin, Famous One- Chris Tomlin, Awakening- Chris Tomlin, Spirit Fall- Christ Tomlin.

"You are the Lord, the famous One, famous One,
Great is Your Name in all the Earth."

Friday, June 15, 2012

times

Times
Satisfied
Faith of the heart
 These last couple of days
have been emotional.

 I think about these people that I love so dearly and have shared my life with for the past 7 1/2 months and I am overcome with emotion. I think my biggest sentiment is that of gratitude. I am grateful that these families invited me to come and join in their lives for this time. They have had such extended arms towards me and have always looked out for me. I am part of the team and part of the family. I have never been alone. I am surrounded by 3 amazing women who love their husbands, their children, their neighbours and their Saviour. They have been such good examples to me. They were always there asking how I was doing and their kind words and gestures have meant so much to me. I could not have asked for more in this time. It has been precious! I look forward and am excited to be part of these children's lives as they grow up, little by little. I will always have these memories in my heart forever. This time was right. Jesus satisfies all my longings.



Thursday, June 14, 2012

How do you choose?

Since coming here, I have been gaining more and more confidence in terms of learning to navigate and get around independently. Sure, I sometimes take "the long way around" when I'm going somewhere, but in the end I get where I'm going and feel a great sense of
accomplishment when I get where I had set out to go. Success!

 Especially in the last two months I've traveled to the European side more- to meet two friends at the airport, to go to one of the big malls and to make some shopping trips to slowly pick up some gifts to bring back for friends and family.

I have been a returning customer to one little shop that sells souvenirs. I really like how the salesman is not pushy and takes his time with me. He doesn't hassle me, but actually makes me feel very comfortable in his shop. I first went there pick up some things I liked (sorry I can't tell you what). Then I returned another time to get more, then on Sunday I brought Gerald there. And again today I found myself in the same little shop! He really does have the best prices around! Today I was served tea and given the best prices he could offer, since S, the salesman, knows me pretty well now!

 Pictured above are some traditional plates that are found here . I love them, especially the ones in the top row! hmm... some look like they're missing! Might one have my grandma's name on it? We'll just have to wait and see. Love you Grandma. I know you are reading this post!
Although this picture isn't super clear, it shows my absolute favourite plate.
Even though I would have snatched it up in an instant, I had to stop and
remind myself of all I have purchased here.
Maybe I can get this one on my next trip .

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

God leads

I was invited over to my friend Drake's house for a late dinner last night.
We were having the party to say goodbye to our friend Nadyn who is going back to Germany,
but actually a bunch of us are leaving in the next little while.

The remarkable thing is that there were 8 people there and 6 countries were represented.
How amazing that God has called each one here for a season.

I had an old song in my head today as I was walking about.
It's the song, "Shine, Jesus, Shine." The lyrics are:

Shine Jesus shine
Fill this land with the Father's glory
Blaze, Spirit blaze,
Set our hearts on fire
Flow, river flow
Flood the nations with grace and mercy
Send forth Your word
Lord and let there be light.

May our lives point to the Kingdom of Heaven!
May people encounter Jesus!

Sometimes it doesn't matter what you do

Simply being is enough



 I was thrilled that my good friend Gerald arranged to stop in this city for 2 days. We had a lot of fun visiting some touristy spots, buying gifts for friends and family members, and also seeing some of the everyday sights that have been part of my life here. It has been hot and humid and we did lots of walking. Whew! My feet are sore! There is just so much to see and do in this city that it can be a little overwhelming as well as difficult to decide what exactly you want to see when you only have two days. But really the heat takes a toll on you. We did get to do quite a bit together, but I just want to say how wonderful it was to be with a good friend of mine. Gerald and I met in University and both bring our global perspective to our conversations. Gerald has a real heart for social justice, giving people opportunities, teaching others about what it means to have a relationship with Jesus and is committed to walking in mercy and choosing to serve others. As he was telling me about what he has been doing for the past 3 months, I was struck by how he puts his ALL into whatever he does. When he says YES to doing something, he puts all that he has into it. As we walked and traveled around the city, we did lots of talking- sharing what we have seen and observed over these months. It was an opportunity for us to both process some of the things we've encountered recently, to discuss how our outlook has been expanded and how we have each grown.

So Gerald, may the Lord continue to guide your steps as you ,
 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not in your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct you path" (Proverbs 3:5-6).                

Monday, June 11, 2012

First Apartment


best songs [here]
*First time living "on my own"*
*First time having a roommate*
*First time living in another country*

*Forever remembered as a time of growth*
*The butterfly is f.l.y.i.n.g.*
All in His Strength! 

Monday Market

I just love outdoor markets. Each day there are outdoor public markets in different neighbourhoods. You can find fresh produce, household items and clothing. This is a great people watching spot! Lydia and I used to have a "granny cart" so we could load up on fresh produce for a few days when we made a trip over to the "Pazaar." I like the idea of supporting these vendors and I would love it if if you actually developed relationships with certain vendors and were a patron to their stand each week. This is a real community event. I also like the fact that it is outdoors.
 I had a fun time today at 2 Monday Markets with Gerald. We tried some string cheese, bought some cherries, and two new shirts, saw the biggest tomatoes I've ever seen in my life, got to hold a baby and were embraced by the local vendors! I usually don't take pictures when I go to the Pazaar; however, today was a special day and I thought it was important to remember the Pazaar experience that I've become so found of.
We just don't have the same sort of markets at home. We have some small Farmer's Markets that I would like to fequent more when I get home and then we have Grandville Island; however, the ones here are adopted as part of the everyday life.

Pizzapalooza!


My homemade pizza from a couple of weeks ago-
One of my favourite Movie Scenese is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAqUGT9DnaU
On Friday we had another "Pizzapalooza." One of the families has made it a monthly invitation to join them on a Friday evening for a movie, pizza, games and a time of having fun together. We have come to enjoy these times of being together and are grateful that the B's have opened their home to us. We are also hoping that this will become a venue to invite neighbours or other friends for an evening of fun and spending time together. The adults have enjoyed some healthy board/ card came competitions, including "Psycho" Blitz (Dutch Blitz on Steroids) and Ticket to Ride, Euro version, where Matt holds out on building anything until the end and then destroys us! Well Friday was another Pizzapalooza night. We watched some old-school "Inspector Gadget" espisodes, celebrated both I and S's birthdays and then the team had a little goodbye presentation for me. Each family did a little presentation and I just sat and listened as they recalled our time together over the past months. They made me a beautiful book to remember them by, I got a CD of pictures and some beautiful poems. To be honest, it didn't feel like my last pizza party with them. I just felt like it was a regular pizzapalooza party and that I will be here for the next one. So I had to remind myself that that won't be the case, but not dwell on it. I'm sure we will have a "pizza party" together again sometime. Maybe it will have to be at my house in Canada next time, when they're in town for a visit. What do you guys say?

Saturday, June 9, 2012

No Turning Back

Chris Tomlin's Song: No Turning Back has been in my head lately.
It's from the Passion's White Flag Album (2012).

The main lyrics say, "I will follow You. No turning back."
I also love the part that says, "This is my anthem: my life for your fame.
My every move bring glory to Your Name."

Theme Words lately: I will follow!


Friday, June 8, 2012

You just have to scream

when you're on a roller coaster!

I took K, K and I to Luna Park today.
I made sure to raise my hands on the rollercoaster and scream extra loud!

I think the three of them look like they're in shock!

After being quite unsure of the rollercoaster at first, they ended up going on it 3 times!!

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Is he in every country?

I took B, A and Z out for dinner this evening!

Waiting for the train

Pictures at the Sahil always turn out so well!
We found some friends along the way- fishermen
 and they let us see their catchings!

The kind man even let A try fishing

A great evening out together!

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Intentionality

New Tools for the Toolbox                                
What do you notice?
What do you observe?
How does what you observe influence how you will respond?

During my time here, I've learned to exercise the skills of observing and listening. These have been ongoing skills that I've learned over the years. You especially encounter this sort of thing when you build a relationship with someone who has a different background from you and you desire to hear their persective and put yourself in their shoes for a little bit. I've come to realize that people want to be heard. People want to be recognized and people long to know that they are significant. I believe we were designed this way. In this context of working with a team comprised of people with such different skill sets and personalities, you soon realize some of the ways that each member operates. You see people who love structure and organization, you see those who are detail-oriented, you see those with vision who can easily get others excited, you see those who enjoy spontainaeity, you see those who are deep thinkers and you see those who tend to process their thoughts aloud, you see those who will strike up a conversation with the mail man or taxi driver, you see different approaches to leadership as well as different fears and dreams. All in all you see variety! The thing I've been thinking about is how observing and listening to individuals allows us to get to know them and come to understand what "makes them tick." There have been many opportunites to talk (and much talking I've done!), but there is also something valuable about choosing to observe and listen in a given situation because sometimes choosing to observe and listen allow us more perspective than if we chose to try to override another person and just talk. I caution you that sometimes this intentional choice to listen and observe may come across as being distant or disengaged; however, the long term benefits of your choice will become evident in due time. I suppose this relates to the love langugae thing I talked about before. It's the idea of taking time to notice attributes and patterns of other people and then respond to them in a way that makese sense to them. Of course we bring our own personality into the mix of things, but what I want to highlight is the act of intentionally choosing to notice the other and act in response to them. I think this may say something about my personal approach to leadership. hehe. I've reminded people before that every action we do means something. Everything says something and I argue there is the element of intentionality to every [even little] choice we make. So I continue to challenge myself to intentionally listen and observe so that I'm better equipped to serve and love others. What do you say? Agree? Disagree? Up for the challenge? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Monday, June 4, 2012

What's in a name?

"Miss Victoria"   
I remember the day I arrived, the night I first got here. I had received little bios about each family, but I had never met them before. I didn't really know what to expect, but every part of me knew this was right. I walked in the door and the kids were waiting up for me (even though it was past their bedtime). They had cards in their hands that said, "Welcome Miss Victoria." Although I was extremely tired, I remember this so distinctly. I remember Ruth saying, "Is it okay if they call you Miss Victoria?" Yes, that suited me just fine. And actually it has become one of my favourite things here. I love that I am a teacher, friend, older-sister, auntie, and mentor kind of figure in 9 children's lives right now. My heart is warmed when I hear them call, "Miss Victoria." I think about how the kids welcomed me without any reservations and how we've all been able to go about sharing school, team fellowships, family dinners and special occasions together.

Last week I got a little Starbucks surprise. The baristas usually ask for your name, so they can make your personalized drink and call you by name when it's ready. This time when I got my latte, I found this name written on the side of it. Shocking! My heart melted! Yes, I know we all hold the title of "Miss, Ms., Mrs., or Mr." however, "Miss Victoria" has and will always have a significant attachment in my heart because of these kids.

Do they know how much they mean to me?

My life is full. Experiencing abundance. Living life to the full.

I praise; I rejoice. I thank
My God
For being invited into their lives.

Saturday, June 2, 2012

A little time outdoors

All around you see apartments. With a population of about 14 million people, it is no surprise to see apartment buildings line the sky. It's actually quite remarkable to look out and think of just how many people live here. It's especially mind boggling when you are at an apartment on the 11th floor and overlook the city from that perspective. Especially since living in my new apartment I've felt a little bit boxed-in. A little claustrophobic because apartments surround us on all sides and as fun as it is to see the neighbour cooking in her kitchen across from yours, it feel like there's no breathing room sometimes. It feels a little too confined for me. There are some parks to go to and enjoy, but the strange part is that they are so well taken care of they hardly feel like a park. The "gardener" responsible for that park is always working to make sure it looks good and is properly groomed. In my opinion, it's a little too "manicured" for natural green space. So, yesterday was a real treat when Anthony and I made a day trip over to Buyukada (Big Island) and went for a hike. The island is quite touristy and cars aren't even allowed there. The main modes of transportation are horse and carriage or rented bicycles. Anthony and I decided to walk. We wanted to make the trek to the church and monastery of Agios Nikolaos. Well it was quite the trek. We took the road less traveled and went through the forest. It felt so good to sweat and be in nature. I am looking forward to the natural outdoors of BC when I return. We climbed the first peak, called Isa Tepesi (Jesus Hill), which hosts a former Greek Orphanage that is now in decay. We continued through the forest and  and ran into a movie crew filming which was pretty cool and then we went over the mountain. After that we got to the foot of the monastery and made the hike up to the top. Mission Accomplished! I'd say it was a good day. Our theme song for the day was "How he loves" sung by the David Crowder Band.


"We like to Party!"

And here we are at 1B's year-end English Party!

Thanks Bin and  for inviting me to be "part of the class" this year.
Thanks to the moms for their friendly "Hellos" at the school and around the neighbourhood.
And thaks to the kids for having fun with me!

öğretmen- always thanking me for teaching!

Kids

Us singing our all time favourite song, Octopus (Slippery Fish) by Charlotte Diamond.
Best part is when the whale gives a big burp at the end. All the kids are beside themselves laughing.



Rack, Shack and Benny

Last week when I was over for dinner with these guys we read the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (taken from Daniel 1-3) in their family devotional Bible. I love it when we read these stories together. I just love how they are told in kid-friendly language. They give me a fresh perspective. I also love hearing the children pray. I love the fact that these parents create opportunities for their kids to pray. Way back in November I wrote these words in my journal,
"Hear God's word from a child's persepctive...
We need to be reminded of the beauty of God's word and the faith of children.
For new perspective, read a children's bible!"

In the kids bible we're reading from there is always an activity to coincide with each story. A few weeks ago we got to act out David and Goliath (multiple times) and had too much fun defeating Goliath and proclaiming our victory becuase of God's help. Last night we had the chance to do the activity that went along with the story of "Rack, Shack, and Benny" who would not worship the idol that King Nebuchadnezzar had made and declared all to bow down to. As a consequence, they were sent to the fiery furnace. Their response was, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and He will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if He does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."Although they were thrown in the fiery furnace, an angel of the Lord can to their side, they did not perish and ultimately the King declared that these three men served the true and living God!

For our activity were got to Roast Marshmellows!
Well, with no yard here and no campfires nearby, we opted to do the "stove-top" version of roasted marshmellows. We got our crackers (made a substitution for Graham wafers because you can't find them here), chocolate and... Peanut Butter! Including peanut butter in the s'more was just like eating a "Reese's Peanut Butter Cup." Great idea, Ruth! Ok, enough build up... here are the pics!

Sorry that you missed out on this Matt.
You'll have to convince them to do it again

How funny is this?

What do you think? Going to try this at home?

Yummy! Best s'mores ever!