In an effort to simplify the technological aspects of my life, I have consolidated my blogs into one blog via WordPress. Although I am slowly working on changing all those white-fonted posts to black font, all the previous posts are on my new blog... here's the address and the link for A Way in the Desert:
awayinthedesert.wordpress.com
Enjoy! See you there!
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Friday, December 04, 2009
Immanuel, God With Us
A sign shall be given
A virgin will conceive
A human baby bearing
Undiminished deity
The glory of the nations
A light for all to see
That hope for all who will embrace
His warm reality
Immanuel
Our God is with us
And if God is with us
Who could stand against us
Our God is with us
Immanuel
For all those who live in the shadow of death
A glorious light has dawned
For all those who stumble in the darkness
Behold your light has come
Immanuel
Our God is with us
And if God is with us
Who could stand against us
Our God is with us
Immanuel...
Immanuel, Michael Card
This song has been especially meaningful this week, as we trust in the Lord for healing for Katie's dad since his craniotomy on Wednesday. It's been a long few days for the Lewis family; lots of updates across the miles and trips back and forth. On Facebook, a friend of Katie's posted the reference of Psalm 91. It's meaningful as well in this time... Psalm 91:1-2, 4, 14-16:
A virgin will conceive
A human baby bearing
Undiminished deity
The glory of the nations
A light for all to see
That hope for all who will embrace
His warm reality
Immanuel
Our God is with us
And if God is with us
Who could stand against us
Our God is with us
Immanuel
For all those who live in the shadow of death
A glorious light has dawned
For all those who stumble in the darkness
Behold your light has come
Immanuel
Our God is with us
And if God is with us
Who could stand against us
Our God is with us
Immanuel...
Immanuel, Michael Card
This song has been especially meaningful this week, as we trust in the Lord for healing for Katie's dad since his craniotomy on Wednesday. It's been a long few days for the Lewis family; lots of updates across the miles and trips back and forth. On Facebook, a friend of Katie's posted the reference of Psalm 91. It's meaningful as well in this time... Psalm 91:1-2, 4, 14-16:
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
They say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."
...He will cover you with his feathers and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart...
"Because they love me," says the Lord, "I will rescue them; I will protect them, for they acknowledge my name. They will call on me, and I will answer them; I will be with them in trouble, I will deliver them and honor them. With long life, I will satisfy them and show them my salvation."
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
And life just rolls on...
Life has been fairly interesting recently. Nothing profound, really, but it has still been interesting. This week I had a good experience at clinicals... which is a nice change from last week. One of my patients was absolutely precious and totally brightened my day... huge smile, big hand shake, fake cell phone and all. My other patient was determined and confident, but calm and cooperative too... and totally understanding of the busyness of nursing, but knew when to stand up for himself (which is good too!).
Today I spent the day in the dialysis unit, where patients in kidney failure come to lay on a bed for 3-4 hours and have their blood "filtered" because their kidneys (or lack thereof) cannot filter the blood as in a healthy human body. Although it was different, and not busy or entirely enthralling all the time, I enjoyed the chance to learn more about the process of dialysis... especially since one of my grandpa's was on dialysis in the 70s... it's interesting to compare the systems, and to find out that they're actually still quite similar (at least in concept and major mechanical components). My instructor didn't believe me when I said that grandpa had dialysis in his home, but, just ask dad. It's true.
We have our research final on Friday. And I'm trying to not freak out about it. The topic of research does not come easily to me; it is often more abstract and gray than my little mind can handle... that's why I chose nursing: I like black and white! I also made the mistake of reading the graduation website... specifically the details about graduating with honors, high honors and highest honors... and, contrary to my previous thoughts, I could actually graduate with highest honors if I manage to do well in my classes again this year. According the website highest honors is for GPAs of 3.9 and higher, and that's me. Forget the 4.0. Psh. That was ruined first semester, freshman year in a one-credit introduction to nursing class that required much more work than a 1-credit class ever should. Don't even get me started on that. But, yeah, trying to not think about the excitement of graduating with highest honors. Who knows what this research final will do?? I just want to PASS!!! Ha!
I should close for now, I need to get to bed and get some good sleep before tomorrow, which will be a long study day!
Today I spent the day in the dialysis unit, where patients in kidney failure come to lay on a bed for 3-4 hours and have their blood "filtered" because their kidneys (or lack thereof) cannot filter the blood as in a healthy human body. Although it was different, and not busy or entirely enthralling all the time, I enjoyed the chance to learn more about the process of dialysis... especially since one of my grandpa's was on dialysis in the 70s... it's interesting to compare the systems, and to find out that they're actually still quite similar (at least in concept and major mechanical components). My instructor didn't believe me when I said that grandpa had dialysis in his home, but, just ask dad. It's true.
We have our research final on Friday. And I'm trying to not freak out about it. The topic of research does not come easily to me; it is often more abstract and gray than my little mind can handle... that's why I chose nursing: I like black and white! I also made the mistake of reading the graduation website... specifically the details about graduating with honors, high honors and highest honors... and, contrary to my previous thoughts, I could actually graduate with highest honors if I manage to do well in my classes again this year. According the website highest honors is for GPAs of 3.9 and higher, and that's me. Forget the 4.0. Psh. That was ruined first semester, freshman year in a one-credit introduction to nursing class that required much more work than a 1-credit class ever should. Don't even get me started on that. But, yeah, trying to not think about the excitement of graduating with highest honors. Who knows what this research final will do?? I just want to PASS!!! Ha!
I should close for now, I need to get to bed and get some good sleep before tomorrow, which will be a long study day!
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Singles, recognize the great potential to waste your singleness:
- If you fail to see your singleness as designed by God: You will not serve, you will not walk in freedom, you will not walk in joy
- If you believe that your singleness is a curse and not a gift
- If you cherish marriage more than you cherish Jesus Christ; Satan's and God's designs for your singleness are not the same... Satan's desire is to destroy your love for Jesus Christ, but God's desire is that your singleness would deepen your love for Jesus Christ as you come to abide in Him and love Him and trust Him in this area of your life
- If you seek comfort from your odds, rather than from God
- If you let it drive you into solitude, instead of using it to deepen your relationship with God's people
- If you fail to use it as a witness to the truth and the glory of Jesus Christ---Show others that Jesus Christ is worth more than life
From a sermon, Singleness: Blessing or Curse?
Jim Riggle, Shawnee Hills Baptist Church
- If you fail to see your singleness as designed by God: You will not serve, you will not walk in freedom, you will not walk in joy
- If you believe that your singleness is a curse and not a gift
- If you cherish marriage more than you cherish Jesus Christ; Satan's and God's designs for your singleness are not the same... Satan's desire is to destroy your love for Jesus Christ, but God's desire is that your singleness would deepen your love for Jesus Christ as you come to abide in Him and love Him and trust Him in this area of your life
- If you seek comfort from your odds, rather than from God
- If you let it drive you into solitude, instead of using it to deepen your relationship with God's people
- If you fail to use it as a witness to the truth and the glory of Jesus Christ---Show others that Jesus Christ is worth more than life
From a sermon, Singleness: Blessing or Curse?
Jim Riggle, Shawnee Hills Baptist Church
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Effects of Starving Yourself.
In the last few days, I've been thinking about how what you do (or in my case, don't do) can really affect the condition of your heart.
I have never been consistent with taking the time to do daily devotions, and recently, almost any practice of prayer has faded out of my daily routine aside from meals and emergency pleas.
On Thursday night, a few close friends and I had a spontaneous prayer time, which was such a blessing. It was such a refreshment to my heart: to be able to share some of my struggles with contentment and relationships, as well as the opportunity to pray for the struggles of the others.
I think it was at this time that I started to realize what has been missing in my life, and how much peace and joy I am missing out on. I've also noticed my heart to be more bitter, more easily annoyed, more willing to hold grudges and it overflows into my life by filling my speech with complaints and making my actions self-serving. I'm sure it's due to not having devotions and practicing regular prayer. Some people think I am such a woman of God, and yet I know that I can be so complacent and practice such apathy. I have seen the effect on my attitude... it often stinks and I complain so much; I talk about others, especially when they, so often, get on my nerves. I also haven't journaled regularly for such a long time; the last entry in my journal was dated in August. I truly have seen the effects on my life because when I don't journal, I don't take the time to write and vent. But, when I journal, my mind and soul are better for it.
Today in Sunday school we talked about James 4:11-12, where James rebukes the church for judging others within the body and speaking down on others.
One thought that stood out to me and challenged me at the core, was that, if I want to know if I am humble, I should consider how I speak about others. That challenged me greatly. I ended up skipping the actual church service and heading back to my room right after Sunday school to spend some time journaling because I needed time to mull over what we had just talked about. It was so powerful and convicting to me.
Another thought was that by speaking about others or criticizing others with friends, I have, in fact, already condemned the characteristic or action of that person in my mind prior to speaking because speaking and judging go hand-in-hand; one is the source of the other.
I should be praying for humility, but that's even scarier than learning patience! Yet, as much as it scares me to ask for humility because it terrifies me to imagine what struggles and challenges I might face as a result, I stil believe it is necessary because my heart is not where it needs to be--hidden in God. The motives of my heart clearly need to change because my actions do not reflect Christlikeness. I need to learn to shut up (in the context of talking about others, that is).
I also need to pray for faith; I need to learn to trust. Especially in the area of desiring to be dating, I want to trust that the Lord has the absolute best in store for me and deep down I do trust--but you would never know it from my actions, words, or complaints. A part of a song by Jenny&Tyler that I listened to this morning says "We want to taste and see the plans You have for our little lives." That is so true! As much as I recognize that it's not best to know the future, I still wish we could know parts of it. Had I known nursing school would be so hard, I probably would've given up and quit. And I should be grateful for the time here, today, as a single woman. But, I am always trying to speed up time, bring the future closer and rush through today. The other day, a friend reminded my roommate and I that it is an honor that God considers us strong enough to live with the challenge of singleness right now. It's true, and I needed that reminder because it can be hard to remember the struggle as an honor.
Most of all, I want the Lord to be glorified in this struggle, in this part of my walk towards more and more Christlikeness.
I have never been consistent with taking the time to do daily devotions, and recently, almost any practice of prayer has faded out of my daily routine aside from meals and emergency pleas.
On Thursday night, a few close friends and I had a spontaneous prayer time, which was such a blessing. It was such a refreshment to my heart: to be able to share some of my struggles with contentment and relationships, as well as the opportunity to pray for the struggles of the others.
I think it was at this time that I started to realize what has been missing in my life, and how much peace and joy I am missing out on. I've also noticed my heart to be more bitter, more easily annoyed, more willing to hold grudges and it overflows into my life by filling my speech with complaints and making my actions self-serving. I'm sure it's due to not having devotions and practicing regular prayer. Some people think I am such a woman of God, and yet I know that I can be so complacent and practice such apathy. I have seen the effect on my attitude... it often stinks and I complain so much; I talk about others, especially when they, so often, get on my nerves. I also haven't journaled regularly for such a long time; the last entry in my journal was dated in August. I truly have seen the effects on my life because when I don't journal, I don't take the time to write and vent. But, when I journal, my mind and soul are better for it.
Today in Sunday school we talked about James 4:11-12, where James rebukes the church for judging others within the body and speaking down on others.
Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgement on it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you--who are you to judge your neighbor?We discussed that humility is the opposite of judging others, because when we judge others our heart-motive is a seeking to serve ourselves by elevating ourselves as we tear others down. Our teacher showed us that in verse 11, the command is in present tense which denotes that slander was happening at that time. Even though the church was saying that they were not of the world, they were acting worldly, which is pure hypocrisy. James was calling them out on their motives and their hearts.
One thought that stood out to me and challenged me at the core, was that, if I want to know if I am humble, I should consider how I speak about others. That challenged me greatly. I ended up skipping the actual church service and heading back to my room right after Sunday school to spend some time journaling because I needed time to mull over what we had just talked about. It was so powerful and convicting to me.
Another thought was that by speaking about others or criticizing others with friends, I have, in fact, already condemned the characteristic or action of that person in my mind prior to speaking because speaking and judging go hand-in-hand; one is the source of the other.
I should be praying for humility, but that's even scarier than learning patience! Yet, as much as it scares me to ask for humility because it terrifies me to imagine what struggles and challenges I might face as a result, I stil believe it is necessary because my heart is not where it needs to be--hidden in God. The motives of my heart clearly need to change because my actions do not reflect Christlikeness. I need to learn to shut up (in the context of talking about others, that is).
I also need to pray for faith; I need to learn to trust. Especially in the area of desiring to be dating, I want to trust that the Lord has the absolute best in store for me and deep down I do trust--but you would never know it from my actions, words, or complaints. A part of a song by Jenny&Tyler that I listened to this morning says "We want to taste and see the plans You have for our little lives." That is so true! As much as I recognize that it's not best to know the future, I still wish we could know parts of it. Had I known nursing school would be so hard, I probably would've given up and quit. And I should be grateful for the time here, today, as a single woman. But, I am always trying to speed up time, bring the future closer and rush through today. The other day, a friend reminded my roommate and I that it is an honor that God considers us strong enough to live with the challenge of singleness right now. It's true, and I needed that reminder because it can be hard to remember the struggle as an honor.
Most of all, I want the Lord to be glorified in this struggle, in this part of my walk towards more and more Christlikeness.
Heal my heart and make it clean
Open up my eyes to the things unseen
Show me how to love like You have loved me
Break my heart for what breaks yours
Everything I am for Your kingdom's cause
As I walk from earth into eternity
Friday, October 23, 2009
A Few Things About Life.
- Only 189 days left until graduation, which is an entirely exciting thought! But, I also find myself always rushing onto the next thing, so I'm trying to slow down my heart and remind myself to enjoy the few days left here in this place. 189 sounds like a lot, but will go by so quickly.
- It's raining today. Pouring torrents at times. I'm soaked just from walking from class to work. It would be an excellent day for sweatpants, a hoodie, snuggling and watching a movie. Maybe it will rain on Sunday, when I am planning to take my day of rest!
- It's almost November. Crazy. I'm almost one year older. If time keeps passing at this speed, soon I'll be old.
- It's almost lunchtime and I'm hungry. It's time to find out what I odd combination I can cook up out of the same-old-same-old ingredients. Hooray for college cafeterias after 4 years of the same things. (Although I must say, at least we have all the options we do... compared to other schools!)
- It's raining today. Pouring torrents at times. I'm soaked just from walking from class to work. It would be an excellent day for sweatpants, a hoodie, snuggling and watching a movie. Maybe it will rain on Sunday, when I am planning to take my day of rest!
- It's almost November. Crazy. I'm almost one year older. If time keeps passing at this speed, soon I'll be old.
- It's almost lunchtime and I'm hungry. It's time to find out what I odd combination I can cook up out of the same-old-same-old ingredients. Hooray for college cafeterias after 4 years of the same things. (Although I must say, at least we have all the options we do... compared to other schools!)
Sunday, October 04, 2009
At this exact moment.
I thought I would write a little bit about my thoughts on singleness at this exact moment in time. I'm not referring to the world's definition of single: that state of freedom that allows to you casually hook up with or engage and disengage with person after person without any commitment. Rather, I'm talking about the definition of single according to the way it applies to many people, old and young, in the church... but yet a label, often undesired, that causes so much frustration and hurt.
Currently, I am immersed in a culture of predominantly 18-23-year-olds and yet the staggering rates of dating relationships and engagements popping up in the strangest of places never ceases to astound me. Yet again today, the phrase "another one bites the dust," as another friend is now "officially" dating. In spite of feeling excited for the friend and her-now-boyfriend, it only adds to, multiplies, and emphasizes my singleness. Had you told me I would be here today, saying these things, writing these things, I would never have believed you. Although I didn't think it guaranteed (I like to think I'm not that naive), I would be a fool to pretend I didn't imagine or wish that I would be happily on my way towards a life-long relationship of marriage-material by my senior year of college.
It's certainly not easy to be in this environment, in the midst of all the relationships (some good, some scary), and be single. I consider it the curse of an environment like this; it's not very forgiving or considerate when it comes to these kinds of things.
Don't be worried; I know, deep in my heart of hearts, that "everything will work out," "God's timing is perfect," "singleness is a blessing," "enjoy this season," etc. etc. etc. Trust me, I believe that this is a blessing and I certainly believe (and hope) that it is a season (for all seasons come to an end at some point). But, it's rather hard to stomach those cliche (even if they are true) statements when the majority, if not all of them, are made by people who are currently dating, engaged, or happily married.
I know I'm young, I know I have so much ahead of me, I know I've got time. I don't remember ever praying for patience, but apparently I asked the Lord for it at some point, because this is certainly one of those times that I am supposed to be working on it. But, I have to be frank and say, goodness, I'm getting tired of this. My heart is ready, and waiting.
And, so, I will wait.
And hope.
Currently, I am immersed in a culture of predominantly 18-23-year-olds and yet the staggering rates of dating relationships and engagements popping up in the strangest of places never ceases to astound me. Yet again today, the phrase "another one bites the dust," as another friend is now "officially" dating. In spite of feeling excited for the friend and her-now-boyfriend, it only adds to, multiplies, and emphasizes my singleness. Had you told me I would be here today, saying these things, writing these things, I would never have believed you. Although I didn't think it guaranteed (I like to think I'm not that naive), I would be a fool to pretend I didn't imagine or wish that I would be happily on my way towards a life-long relationship of marriage-material by my senior year of college.
It's certainly not easy to be in this environment, in the midst of all the relationships (some good, some scary), and be single. I consider it the curse of an environment like this; it's not very forgiving or considerate when it comes to these kinds of things.
Don't be worried; I know, deep in my heart of hearts, that "everything will work out," "God's timing is perfect," "singleness is a blessing," "enjoy this season," etc. etc. etc. Trust me, I believe that this is a blessing and I certainly believe (and hope) that it is a season (for all seasons come to an end at some point). But, it's rather hard to stomach those cliche (even if they are true) statements when the majority, if not all of them, are made by people who are currently dating, engaged, or happily married.
I know I'm young, I know I have so much ahead of me, I know I've got time. I don't remember ever praying for patience, but apparently I asked the Lord for it at some point, because this is certainly one of those times that I am supposed to be working on it. But, I have to be frank and say, goodness, I'm getting tired of this. My heart is ready, and waiting.
And, so, I will wait.
And hope.
Monday, September 21, 2009
You Have a BOX!!!
For the sake of my mom, who didn't get to see my dad's mischievious packing job...
Thanks! I love you too! : )
Thanks! I love you too! : )
Monday, September 14, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Almost. Almost.
It's been a good (but long) day.
Class all morning and afternoon. Practicing phlebotomy (blood draws) and IV starting in the lab on the arms. Dinner with our brother hall at 6:00. . . which was by far the best brother hall activity I've had in all four years here. Great turn-out, great conversation, and great excitement about continued fun-ness.
Tomorrow = Friday. WaHOOO! Only one 2-hour lecture before chapel, then work and... the weekend!!! Even a three-day weekend!
Catch you later...
Class all morning and afternoon. Practicing phlebotomy (blood draws) and IV starting in the lab on the arms. Dinner with our brother hall at 6:00. . . which was by far the best brother hall activity I've had in all four years here. Great turn-out, great conversation, and great excitement about continued fun-ness.
Tomorrow = Friday. WaHOOO! Only one 2-hour lecture before chapel, then work and... the weekend!!! Even a three-day weekend!
Catch you later...
Monday, August 31, 2009
Two Weeks Down.
It's hard to believe that two weeks of my senior year already went whooshing past; some of my friends are only starting classes now! This past weekend was wonderful---a great mix of study and fun. My roommate and I have made a determined commitment to get homework finished before Sunday so that Sunday can truly be a day of rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Granted, it means working our little tooshies off on Friday and Saturday (when most people are socializing) and then being bored on Sunday (when most people are doing homework and can't socialize), but it is still rewarding and refreshing.
Anyway, after classes and work on Friday afternoon, we took a girls-trip to Aldi's, Wal-Mart and the library... with each stop adding it's own unique success. Foods, necessities, non-necessities, books. At the library I picked up two books, the Kite Runner and A Thousand Splendid Suns, upon Karissa's recommendation during our summer travels. Friday evening we spent some time working on homework. Saturday, I did laundry in the morning and worked on homework in the morning and afternoon. Around 4:00 Katie and I decided that we were going to work until 6:30, at which time we would stop and make grilled-cheese and watch MASH and ER. After a few episodes, we watched "EverAfter" with some girls from the hall and then headed to bed!
...which meant that Sunday was church, adoptive family's house for lunch, fun reading, phone call home, uploading Peru pictures, and more ER episodes, plus dinner date with (almost) the whole hall!
Today brought the reality of school back full-force! The weekend went by so quickly, but four hours of lecture beginning at 8:00 a.m. with only a one-hour break for chapel quickly reminded us of our full-time jobs as students. After class I grabbed a super-quick lunch (pizza, soup, and veggies) before heading to work, where I am answering phones and doing odds-and-ends tasks until 5:00 p.m. today.
Tomorrow we begin clinical, the "real deal." We'll begin by helping a nurse with her patients; in following weeks we will have one patient that we are responsible for, then in the last couple of weeks we will have two patients that we are responsible for. It's always nerve-wracking to start clinicals! Do I really remember how to do these things? Can I really do them?!
But, I am looking forward to this rotation; we are in the Intensive Care Unit at a local hospital, a good hospital. It's a bigger, newer hospital than the sites of my previous clinical experience, so I am glad that I get to have my "area of interest" rotation in a hospital comparable to the hospitals at home.
We have a drug quiz at clinical tomorrow, which I definitely need to study for!! After clinical tomorrow and Wednesday, we have classes again on Thursday and Friday, with nothing exceedingly special about those classes. Then it's a 3-day weekend because of labor day!! Wahoo!!
Anyway, after classes and work on Friday afternoon, we took a girls-trip to Aldi's, Wal-Mart and the library... with each stop adding it's own unique success. Foods, necessities, non-necessities, books. At the library I picked up two books, the Kite Runner and A Thousand Splendid Suns, upon Karissa's recommendation during our summer travels. Friday evening we spent some time working on homework. Saturday, I did laundry in the morning and worked on homework in the morning and afternoon. Around 4:00 Katie and I decided that we were going to work until 6:30, at which time we would stop and make grilled-cheese and watch MASH and ER. After a few episodes, we watched "EverAfter" with some girls from the hall and then headed to bed!
...which meant that Sunday was church, adoptive family's house for lunch, fun reading, phone call home, uploading Peru pictures, and more ER episodes, plus dinner date with (almost) the whole hall!
Today brought the reality of school back full-force! The weekend went by so quickly, but four hours of lecture beginning at 8:00 a.m. with only a one-hour break for chapel quickly reminded us of our full-time jobs as students. After class I grabbed a super-quick lunch (pizza, soup, and veggies) before heading to work, where I am answering phones and doing odds-and-ends tasks until 5:00 p.m. today.
Tomorrow we begin clinical, the "real deal." We'll begin by helping a nurse with her patients; in following weeks we will have one patient that we are responsible for, then in the last couple of weeks we will have two patients that we are responsible for. It's always nerve-wracking to start clinicals! Do I really remember how to do these things? Can I really do them?!
But, I am looking forward to this rotation; we are in the Intensive Care Unit at a local hospital, a good hospital. It's a bigger, newer hospital than the sites of my previous clinical experience, so I am glad that I get to have my "area of interest" rotation in a hospital comparable to the hospitals at home.
We have a drug quiz at clinical tomorrow, which I definitely need to study for!! After clinical tomorrow and Wednesday, we have classes again on Thursday and Friday, with nothing exceedingly special about those classes. Then it's a 3-day weekend because of labor day!! Wahoo!!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Start. For the Fourth (but last!) Time.
We officially began our senior year of college on Wednesday at 8:00 a.m. with Adult and Child Health Nursing. It was nice to have a short week with only three days of classes; a good dose of getting started, but not too overwhelming... or at least we tried to let it overwhelm us!
This coming week will be a packed week, I know... and definitely not my favorite kind of week. Monday is class and work from 8:00 until 5:00; Tuesday is class from 8:00-4:00 with skills revalidations at 5:30 (yikes!! I'm not a fan of these nervewracking events called validations!); Wednesday, clinical orientation from ?? to ??; Thursday, class from 8:00 to 3:20; Friday class and work from 8:00-2:00.
These days are long and there is definitely a lot of work involved with ACH and Nursing Research, but similar to last year, we're trying to maintain an open-door policy... in that, sure, we'll be working on homework a lot, but we're always here to listen and talk and pray if someone needs to do so. We've got a little sign on our door that reminds people of this, and a second sign (or rather, set of notes) that say "Need a hug? Need to talk? Need a tissue? Need (or want) a piece of candy? Come on in, we're here for you!"
That's an update on life at this point. Not too much out of the ordinary routine of classes, work, and girl time in the dorm! I'm still trying to decide about participating in a Bible study or not... whether I can commit to a group like that this year. I'm not planning to do the pregnancy center ministry due to my work/class schedule on Mondays/Tuesdays.
But, I'm excited about the Lord's plans for this year. This year holds possibilities and opportunities that no other year held, many of which are unbeknownst to me of course, so it will be interesting to watch the year unfold and strive to glorify God in the journey!
Just for kicks and giggles...
Currently reading: the Purpose Driven Life
Currently listening to: Hillsong United, the One Heart Revolution
Currently drinking: lemonade
Currently eating: nothing. I'm full from afternoon snacks and supper.
Currently watching: maybe I'll watch some ER or a short part of a movie before I head to bed.
This coming week will be a packed week, I know... and definitely not my favorite kind of week. Monday is class and work from 8:00 until 5:00; Tuesday is class from 8:00-4:00 with skills revalidations at 5:30 (yikes!! I'm not a fan of these nervewracking events called validations!); Wednesday, clinical orientation from ?? to ??; Thursday, class from 8:00 to 3:20; Friday class and work from 8:00-2:00.
These days are long and there is definitely a lot of work involved with ACH and Nursing Research, but similar to last year, we're trying to maintain an open-door policy... in that, sure, we'll be working on homework a lot, but we're always here to listen and talk and pray if someone needs to do so. We've got a little sign on our door that reminds people of this, and a second sign (or rather, set of notes) that say "Need a hug? Need to talk? Need a tissue? Need (or want) a piece of candy? Come on in, we're here for you!"
That's an update on life at this point. Not too much out of the ordinary routine of classes, work, and girl time in the dorm! I'm still trying to decide about participating in a Bible study or not... whether I can commit to a group like that this year. I'm not planning to do the pregnancy center ministry due to my work/class schedule on Mondays/Tuesdays.
But, I'm excited about the Lord's plans for this year. This year holds possibilities and opportunities that no other year held, many of which are unbeknownst to me of course, so it will be interesting to watch the year unfold and strive to glorify God in the journey!
Just for kicks and giggles...
Currently reading: the Purpose Driven Life
Currently listening to: Hillsong United, the One Heart Revolution
Currently drinking: lemonade
Currently eating: nothing. I'm full from afternoon snacks and supper.
Currently watching: maybe I'll watch some ER or a short part of a movie before I head to bed.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Making My (temporarily permanent) Home.
Here's a peek into the setup of our dorm room, at this stage (sorry that the pictures are in no particular order). I'm the only one here, but my roommate will come soon and then it will look much more complete!! I'll try to post more pictures when it's closer to the "final product"! : ) The first picture is of our little relaxation/encouragement spot... kleenex and a candy dish seemed appropriate for senior year of nursing school! : ) The second picture exhibits the awesome door hangers my mom and I found at a local art store. Hi-lar-i-ous.
For now, I am thankful for the air conditioning and large room... and for a few days to catch my breath before we have a big test on the first day of classes on Wednesday!
Check back later for more pictures!
For now, I am thankful for the air conditioning and large room... and for a few days to catch my breath before we have a big test on the first day of classes on Wednesday!
Check back later for more pictures!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Last Time For This
No, this is not my last blog post (go ahead, take a breath). Rather, it is the last time I need to wrap up summer vacation to prepare for another school year. It is my senior year already! Wow! Next year, real life begins... hmmm...
In the meantime, I've been enjoying some simple pleasures of life.
A new cell phone. Two thirds of the phones on our plan bit the dust, so we were able to upgrade. And because we keep phones a lot longer than the average customer, we got free upgrades, or free phones. Double wow! I didn't know that the system worked that way; but, it certainly speaks to Americans' discontentment with any technology that is "lagging behind" what is up-and-coming, which is also sad. Three years isn't all that long to own a phone, and most people don't even keep them that long. Yikes!
Great thrift store and free bin finds. In the last two weeks I've managed to end up with 4 knit shirts, two swing jackets, a new business skirt (which also miraculously matches my navy suit jacket, so now I have the choice of a suit with a skirt, or a suit with pants), pink high heels, a cute black stand/rack... perfect for something in the dorm room, if space allows, and a few picture frames!
Spiffy new glasses. A new style for me, but I love it! Some days I wear my glasses just for the fun of it.
Printing pictures and quotes. Planning to design, arrange and display pictures and quotes in my picture frames, because I love to have a dorm room that is sprinkled all over with photographs, quotes, and verses. It's the perfect day-brightener!
A wild black cherry gelati at Rita's. On one of the hottest days of the summer; thanks Dad!
Minimizing my life into plastic tubs and cardboard boxes. Oh the joys of packing for school! Perhaps one of those pleasures you quickly grow tired of! But, it's the last time I'll have to do it... at least for now.
Writting in my journal. A habit and hobby that guarantees to calm me, rejuvenate me, relax me, refresh me, reinspire me...
Maybe that's a good enough list for now... In other moments, I've been studying for a big test that we have on the first day of classes... comprehensive over many of the subjects we've learned about in the last year and a half or two. Ugh.
In the meantime, I've been enjoying some simple pleasures of life.
A new cell phone. Two thirds of the phones on our plan bit the dust, so we were able to upgrade. And because we keep phones a lot longer than the average customer, we got free upgrades, or free phones. Double wow! I didn't know that the system worked that way; but, it certainly speaks to Americans' discontentment with any technology that is "lagging behind" what is up-and-coming, which is also sad. Three years isn't all that long to own a phone, and most people don't even keep them that long. Yikes!
Great thrift store and free bin finds. In the last two weeks I've managed to end up with 4 knit shirts, two swing jackets, a new business skirt (which also miraculously matches my navy suit jacket, so now I have the choice of a suit with a skirt, or a suit with pants), pink high heels, a cute black stand/rack... perfect for something in the dorm room, if space allows, and a few picture frames!
Spiffy new glasses. A new style for me, but I love it! Some days I wear my glasses just for the fun of it.
Printing pictures and quotes. Planning to design, arrange and display pictures and quotes in my picture frames, because I love to have a dorm room that is sprinkled all over with photographs, quotes, and verses. It's the perfect day-brightener!
A wild black cherry gelati at Rita's. On one of the hottest days of the summer; thanks Dad!
Minimizing my life into plastic tubs and cardboard boxes. Oh the joys of packing for school! Perhaps one of those pleasures you quickly grow tired of! But, it's the last time I'll have to do it... at least for now.
Writting in my journal. A habit and hobby that guarantees to calm me, rejuvenate me, relax me, refresh me, reinspire me...
Maybe that's a good enough list for now... In other moments, I've been studying for a big test that we have on the first day of classes... comprehensive over many of the subjects we've learned about in the last year and a half or two. Ugh.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Back for a Bit.
I've been home from my South American travels for a bit more than one week now, and it's been good to be back and adjust to work life again. Getting up at 4:30 or 5:30 a.m. is not so cool, but it's been good (as in beneficial) experience once again.
This week we have taken care of several residents who were living the last days of their lives. Yesterday one resident died during our shift, and today another resident died. Both deaths were anticipated, but not welcomed, of course. Working in a nursing home and seeing death as it takes over someone's life is not a thing I like to watch. I hate watching death, so you may wonder why I am in nursing with an interest in intensive care nursing. Yes, I hate seeing death, but at the same time, I have learned from residents that death can be a scary, lonely time... as nurses, we can help to ease some of the suffering and offer a hand to hold or a presence to comfort.
It's truly a gift to serve in this way, even though it is also painful.
This week we have taken care of several residents who were living the last days of their lives. Yesterday one resident died during our shift, and today another resident died. Both deaths were anticipated, but not welcomed, of course. Working in a nursing home and seeing death as it takes over someone's life is not a thing I like to watch. I hate watching death, so you may wonder why I am in nursing with an interest in intensive care nursing. Yes, I hate seeing death, but at the same time, I have learned from residents that death can be a scary, lonely time... as nurses, we can help to ease some of the suffering and offer a hand to hold or a presence to comfort.
It's truly a gift to serve in this way, even though it is also painful.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
More Pictures from Life in Peru!
Calla lillies (sp?) from the local San Jeronimo market, for 4 soles (approximately $1.33 in U.S. currency)!
Downtown Plaza de Armas at night
Agricultral ruins from the pre-Incan time period (1100-1400) or the Incan empire (1500's). They used these varied, circular terraces to imitate, test, and perfect growing spots on the mountain sides.
Downtown Plaza de Armas at night
Agricultral ruins from the pre-Incan time period (1100-1400) or the Incan empire (1500's). They used these varied, circular terraces to imitate, test, and perfect growing spots on the mountain sides.
Salt mines near Urubumba. About 3,500 plots of salt fed by one small salty stream
One picture from our most recent trek---to Macchu Picchu! I am exhausted from those last three sites, all visited in 24 hours during a two-day trip!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Welcome to Cusco!
(Great apologies for the sideways pictures. I think I should have rotated them before posting them, but too late now and I don't want to wait for the computer for another 10 minutes!)Flying across Peru, into Cusco from Lima... early, early last Tuesday morning (above).
Part of Cusco, near the school during the day (above),
and the view out of our bedroom window at sunset (below).
and the view out of our bedroom window at sunset (below).
I tried to write a post last night, but with no success. Internet services are available, but not necessarily "rapido!" It's hard to believe that we have been here in Cusco, Peru for almost 2 weeks. But, it has been wonderful, interesting, strange, exciting, exhausting, and many other things! We adjusted to the culture fairly well, and we didn't experience any health problems related to the change in altitude. (Although we continue to laugh at ourselves as we become breathless after a climb up the stairs or a walk up the street. Pathetic, we say.) I got a cold about two days and have been dealing with a runny nose since then, but no other major health problems, praise the Lord!
We have been spending some of our time at Promesa (the school), helping in the 4-and-5-year-old classes, signing out books for the students in "library" from 2-2:15 each school day.
Children at Promesa in the library at the end of the school day.
I also was able to help Jen, one of the other missionaries who is a pediatrician and is completing health checks on all the students. I helped by taking the students vital signs and completing documenting/charting. (The picture below is of our little health room at Promesa.)
We also helped at Prosim (the health clinic) by bagging (and remeasuring, readjusting, and rebagging) food for a nutrition program for 37 students in Cusco who need food assistance.
In our other time, we spend time with the Shultz's, either by tagging along on errands, playing games with the kids, watching movies, or taking little half-day trips to the main plaza to watch parades and celebrations, which are a signature of the month of June in Cusco.
We have also enjoyed getting to know several other people who are serving here in Cusco for short terms. Today we enjoyed a day out with Nick and Sylvia (who will be here for another week) and Steve (who is here for 5 more weeks); we ate out at a restaurant near the Plaza de Armas. (I had an Alpaca sandwich!! It was delicious!) After lunch we went shopping before heading to the "March for Jesus" to walk with the kids from Promesa through the city of Cusco.
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Some Things In My Life Recently
- Packing (!!)
- Four out of the five books in the Redemption series by Karen Kingsbury and Gary Smalley... and working on book no. 5 (I'm not usually a fan of "Christian fiction," but this is a good series!!)
- NCLEX review books (the long study process begins... previous test-takers recommend reviewing little bits consistently over a long period of time)
- Naps
- Details, details, details for the trip that's coming up in less than one week!
- fans and air conditioners for humid days
- Books from Amazon for the flights next week
- Early mornings (5:30, that is) for work and not-so-early mornings on days off of work.
- last minute shopping for last minute packing
- and more....
Things that aren't but should be part of my life...
- cleaning my room
- cleaning my room
- aaaaand.... cleaning my room!! HA.
- Four out of the five books in the Redemption series by Karen Kingsbury and Gary Smalley... and working on book no. 5 (I'm not usually a fan of "Christian fiction," but this is a good series!!)
- NCLEX review books (the long study process begins... previous test-takers recommend reviewing little bits consistently over a long period of time)
- Naps
- Details, details, details for the trip that's coming up in less than one week!
- fans and air conditioners for humid days
- Books from Amazon for the flights next week
- Early mornings (5:30, that is) for work and not-so-early mornings on days off of work.
- last minute shopping for last minute packing
- and more....
Things that aren't but should be part of my life...
- cleaning my room
- cleaning my room
- aaaaand.... cleaning my room!! HA.
Saturday, June 06, 2009
Those Things Called Naps.
I just woke up from a nap. You know, those wonderful times that you lay down for a 30-minute nap and wake up about 2 hours later. I absolutely love that kind of sleep! Besides the fact that a part of your day is gone in the matter of a few dreams, it's more-often-than-not refreshing---which is wonderful any day.
Mom and I also worked on some "first round" packing. "First round" because it wasn't the final cut to see what will/will not fit in my suit case; rather the cut to see exactly what I wanted in my checked luggage and what I wanted to pack in my carry-on.
My friend is away for the weekend, so I don't know if there has been any progress in her visa-fiasco. But, we are all anxiously awaiting its arrival---and I, for one, am praying that it comes soon! I could do it, but I don't really want to travel by myself!!
It's time to go for a walk...
Mom and I also worked on some "first round" packing. "First round" because it wasn't the final cut to see what will/will not fit in my suit case; rather the cut to see exactly what I wanted in my checked luggage and what I wanted to pack in my carry-on.
My friend is away for the weekend, so I don't know if there has been any progress in her visa-fiasco. But, we are all anxiously awaiting its arrival---and I, for one, am praying that it comes soon! I could do it, but I don't really want to travel by myself!!
It's time to go for a walk...
Thursday, June 04, 2009
For My Momma.
Yesterday my mom asked me to post something new on my blog. I had actually forgotten about this blog for a little while; in the hum-drum of summer, it doesn't seem like there's too much to be talked about!
However, in a matter of a little more than a week I will be on my way to South America for 5 weeks, so I guess that deserves an update! A friend and I will be helping a missionary family from our church in any way we can. They are dedicated to a school, Promesa, so we will probably be mostly involved at the school.
Of course, hassles are involved, and my friend is still waiting to get her passport back from the visa application we needed to file. So, if you'd take a few minutes and pray for a quick delivery of an intact passport that would be greatly appreciated!
Otherwise, I've been working and lounging. I've also been working on a little bit of studying for the scary NCLEX test of next summer! The most frequent advice I've received is to start studying small doses consistently ahead of time.
But, it's 9:00 and I should probably start wrapping up.
However, in a matter of a little more than a week I will be on my way to South America for 5 weeks, so I guess that deserves an update! A friend and I will be helping a missionary family from our church in any way we can. They are dedicated to a school, Promesa, so we will probably be mostly involved at the school.
Of course, hassles are involved, and my friend is still waiting to get her passport back from the visa application we needed to file. So, if you'd take a few minutes and pray for a quick delivery of an intact passport that would be greatly appreciated!
Otherwise, I've been working and lounging. I've also been working on a little bit of studying for the scary NCLEX test of next summer! The most frequent advice I've received is to start studying small doses consistently ahead of time.
But, it's 9:00 and I should probably start wrapping up.
Thursday, May 07, 2009
Just Another Day.
Summer (not the season, the "vacation") has officially been happening for almost 2 weeks now. It's hard to believe that I've been home for that long, but, hey, it's a lot better than school. I am definitely grateful for the break from the insanity of this last year. I started work of sorts this week (although it was just reorientation, not the real work yet :) ), which helped to establish a sort of routine to my days. Kind of. I still have difficulty getting up when that alarm clock goes off. I did better when I had an 8:00 class...
But, I still catch myself thinking of things the way they were before Grandma passed away. At work, I find myself wondering when she will wander through the halls looking for me, until I remember that that is only a precious memory now. Things like that remind me that I miss her, and all the little ways she was a part of my life.
I'm counting down the days until the big trip this summer... I simply cannot wait to be able to get away for a few weeks and do things that are beyond my comfort zone, bless others, and experience life in less fortunate areas.
Till the next post... adios!
p.s. I'm hoping to start reading some thought-provoking books soon, so I'll try to post interesting thoughts on here....
But, I still catch myself thinking of things the way they were before Grandma passed away. At work, I find myself wondering when she will wander through the halls looking for me, until I remember that that is only a precious memory now. Things like that remind me that I miss her, and all the little ways she was a part of my life.
I'm counting down the days until the big trip this summer... I simply cannot wait to be able to get away for a few weeks and do things that are beyond my comfort zone, bless others, and experience life in less fortunate areas.
Till the next post... adios!
p.s. I'm hoping to start reading some thought-provoking books soon, so I'll try to post interesting thoughts on here....
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
12.
12 days of insanity. 12 days until the end of the school year.
I just got back from Easter break, which ended up being a bit longer of a break. We said goodbye to Grandma, as she passed away on Saturday after a brief illness. It was so hard; even though I rejoice in the hope of Christ, she was my last grandparent... and such a dear one to me. I miss her already, there's things that suddenly I'm realizing will never happen again.
I'm exhausted and weary. It was a tiring 6 days of going, going, going... I got the usual amount of sleep, but there's just so much going on in life right now. Almost too much handle if I let it take over... My to-do list is looming over my head, with projects full of (in my opinion) rediculous requirements from some profs. Somehow a 2-credit-hour course should not take up most of my time! and a term paper should not be expected to be a dissertation at the Bachelor's degree level. HA.
I'm looking forward to the weekend in two short days... granted, it will be full of homework. But, it will also provide some extra time for breathing hopefully.
That's what I feel like: I haven't been able to catch my breath. Sounds strange, but I don't think I've even fully realized the meaning or depth of all that happened this weekend, in the sense of all the things that will be different now.
I'd certainly appreciate your prayers on behalf of my family as well, as we adjust to perhaps a "new normal"... not that this was completely unexpected, but, as someone said last night, it's a big deal when you lose the matriarch.... especially such an amazing one!
Pressing on...
I just got back from Easter break, which ended up being a bit longer of a break. We said goodbye to Grandma, as she passed away on Saturday after a brief illness. It was so hard; even though I rejoice in the hope of Christ, she was my last grandparent... and such a dear one to me. I miss her already, there's things that suddenly I'm realizing will never happen again.
I'm exhausted and weary. It was a tiring 6 days of going, going, going... I got the usual amount of sleep, but there's just so much going on in life right now. Almost too much handle if I let it take over... My to-do list is looming over my head, with projects full of (in my opinion) rediculous requirements from some profs. Somehow a 2-credit-hour course should not take up most of my time! and a term paper should not be expected to be a dissertation at the Bachelor's degree level. HA.
I'm looking forward to the weekend in two short days... granted, it will be full of homework. But, it will also provide some extra time for breathing hopefully.
That's what I feel like: I haven't been able to catch my breath. Sounds strange, but I don't think I've even fully realized the meaning or depth of all that happened this weekend, in the sense of all the things that will be different now.
I'd certainly appreciate your prayers on behalf of my family as well, as we adjust to perhaps a "new normal"... not that this was completely unexpected, but, as someone said last night, it's a big deal when you lose the matriarch.... especially such an amazing one!
Pressing on...
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
In these few minutes...
Since I have a few minutes before I need to catch some zzz's, here's a quick update on life!
- I finished writing my Public Health Nursing term paper on Yellow Fever and related epidemiology tonight. . . after countless hours, I am finally finished writing the 22.5-page beast! Now onto revising it before the due date next Friday. . .
- The nursing department cancelled the Junior exam---which is a huge blessing! It means one less thing to do, one less test to study for, a huge stressor to cross off the list, and one less thing to rearrange should the need arise to go home at a moment's notice.
- I'd continue to appreciate prayers for my family, as we continue to walk beside Grandma in these probably last few days of her life.
- It snowed today... snow, in April---alternating sunshine and pelting snow/sleet every 20-30 minutes. Gross.
- My sanity.... wearing thin, but the end of this craziness is getting closer! ....and the upcoming trip this summer is getting closer too! : D
- As always, I'm ever so grateful for worship music that comforts and relaxes such weary spirits.
- I finished writing my Public Health Nursing term paper on Yellow Fever and related epidemiology tonight. . . after countless hours, I am finally finished writing the 22.5-page beast! Now onto revising it before the due date next Friday. . .
- The nursing department cancelled the Junior exam---which is a huge blessing! It means one less thing to do, one less test to study for, a huge stressor to cross off the list, and one less thing to rearrange should the need arise to go home at a moment's notice.
- I'd continue to appreciate prayers for my family, as we continue to walk beside Grandma in these probably last few days of her life.
- It snowed today... snow, in April---alternating sunshine and pelting snow/sleet every 20-30 minutes. Gross.
- My sanity.... wearing thin, but the end of this craziness is getting closer! ....and the upcoming trip this summer is getting closer too! : D
- As always, I'm ever so grateful for worship music that comforts and relaxes such weary spirits.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Update.
I realize that there might not be many people reading this, especially since I don't update it very often anymore.
But, I'd really appreciate prayer for me and my family right now. On top of the insanity of school demands (only 4 weeks left!), we are beginning to grieve the loss of my grandma, who was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer. Although we are treasuring her in these last days and weeks, we are all very aware of her approaching death. Please pray for comfort (physically and emotionally) for her, so that she can rest well at night and enjoy her days. Also, please pray for my family as they have a lot on their plates right now with an 8-month-old (or maybe 9 by now)baby, grandma, a dog with a fungus, and two young adult children to keep in touch with. And, finally, for the rest of my family (aunts, uncles, cousins) who are spread all over the country and Canada, as they decide when to come in and then make the trip. A few are making the trip this weekend, some later in the month.
Please pray for strength, for rest, for memories, and for humor to brighten and ligthen the days! Thanks!
But, I'd really appreciate prayer for me and my family right now. On top of the insanity of school demands (only 4 weeks left!), we are beginning to grieve the loss of my grandma, who was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer. Although we are treasuring her in these last days and weeks, we are all very aware of her approaching death. Please pray for comfort (physically and emotionally) for her, so that she can rest well at night and enjoy her days. Also, please pray for my family as they have a lot on their plates right now with an 8-month-old (or maybe 9 by now)baby, grandma, a dog with a fungus, and two young adult children to keep in touch with. And, finally, for the rest of my family (aunts, uncles, cousins) who are spread all over the country and Canada, as they decide when to come in and then make the trip. A few are making the trip this weekend, some later in the month.
Please pray for strength, for rest, for memories, and for humor to brighten and ligthen the days! Thanks!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Update.
Since I have wandered away from the blogging realm for almost one month(!), I decided I should return and give an update on my life... especially since I probably won't be writing much in the next 7 weeks.
Returning to school after spring break meant encountering a new nursing clinical rotation (this time Public Health) and realizing that any taste of free time and freedom is long gone. During these last seven weeks of my junior year I have an gigantic amount of reading to do, 3 papers to write, one group paper to edit (and design an accompanying powerpoint), 1 regular test, 3 finals, and one "Junior Exam" (an exam for all junior year nursing students before entering the senior year---just mostly intimidating, that's all). To give an idea of the amount of reading for Public Health alone, most weeks I have 2 chapters in at least two textbooks, plus 3-4 chapters to read in "Ebola," a fiction book required for the class. That's not to mention the book I have to read for Christian Worldview Integration or the reading I have to do each week for Concepts of Gerontology and Nursing Care for Diverse Populations, the two other classes I have this semester.
Needless to say, I'm slightly overwhelmed. Ah. I would certainly appreciate your prayers for miraculous time management, efficiency, effectiveness and energy. We sang an extremely applicable and appropriate song this morning in chapel---the old, beautiful hymn "I Need Thee Every Hour." I'll close with those words, for His strength is truly the only way I will survive these weeks in one piece with a sane mind.
I need thee, oh I need Thee
Every hour I need Thee
Oh, bless me now my Savior
I come to Thee
Returning to school after spring break meant encountering a new nursing clinical rotation (this time Public Health) and realizing that any taste of free time and freedom is long gone. During these last seven weeks of my junior year I have an gigantic amount of reading to do, 3 papers to write, one group paper to edit (and design an accompanying powerpoint), 1 regular test, 3 finals, and one "Junior Exam" (an exam for all junior year nursing students before entering the senior year---just mostly intimidating, that's all). To give an idea of the amount of reading for Public Health alone, most weeks I have 2 chapters in at least two textbooks, plus 3-4 chapters to read in "Ebola," a fiction book required for the class. That's not to mention the book I have to read for Christian Worldview Integration or the reading I have to do each week for Concepts of Gerontology and Nursing Care for Diverse Populations, the two other classes I have this semester.
Needless to say, I'm slightly overwhelmed. Ah. I would certainly appreciate your prayers for miraculous time management, efficiency, effectiveness and energy. We sang an extremely applicable and appropriate song this morning in chapel---the old, beautiful hymn "I Need Thee Every Hour." I'll close with those words, for His strength is truly the only way I will survive these weeks in one piece with a sane mind.
I need thee, oh I need Thee
Every hour I need Thee
Oh, bless me now my Savior
I come to Thee
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Sometimes You Just Need a Hug
These lovable little creatures arrived in the mail yesterday. . . much needed snuggliness and smelling of home : )
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
25 Random Things About Me.
Imported from Facebook, for the benefit of those of you who haven't discovered the true art of procrastination and distraction.
1. I always back into parking spaces... that's right guys, my dad taught me well!
2. I already started a collection of things for my home someday.
3. I hate roller coasters... and therefore, most rides at amusement parks.
4. I have an insanely long list of "want-to-read" books.
5. I love to decorate.
6. I'm in love with writing to-do lists... crossing things out... writing new lists... adding things to the list I already accomplished, just so I can cross them off... you get the idea.
7. I have 4 beautiful lucky bamboo shoots.
8. I allow hot chocolate to ferment in my mug a few too many times. gross.
9. I used to hate cooking, but am slowly being changed and accumulated at least 4 cookbooks over Christmas.
10. I'm a huge fan of simplicity, and desire to live simply.
11. My feet are about 1/2 inch different in length... talk about shoe-shopping problems.
12. I'm quite possibly addicted to cheese. Specifically yellow cheddar cheese.
13. At home I sleep with 4 blankets, a hoodie and sweatpants. Nice 'n cozy. (dorm room is too hot for that!)
14. I'm a sucker for black and white photography.
15. I hate coffee.
16. At the moment, I'm addicted to Hillsong and Hillsong United... and the free music on NoiseTrade.
17. I love going to the zoo.
18. I have a knack for finding random (but wonderful!) items at yard sales and bargain stores---for really cheap!
19. I don't like English/grammar. As has probably been evidenced.
20. My journal and listening to music saved (and continue to save) my sanity repeatedly.
21. I love to have spontaneous, long conversations, one-on-one or in small groups.
22. House churches, as a ministry of a larger church, fascinate me.
23. My dream house is not big, but has room for an extra person---in case they need to a place to live.
24. I am continually writing down quotes and song lyrics.
25. I love wild and "home-grown" flowers.
1. I always back into parking spaces... that's right guys, my dad taught me well!
2. I already started a collection of things for my home someday.
3. I hate roller coasters... and therefore, most rides at amusement parks.
4. I have an insanely long list of "want-to-read" books.
5. I love to decorate.
6. I'm in love with writing to-do lists... crossing things out... writing new lists... adding things to the list I already accomplished, just so I can cross them off... you get the idea.
7. I have 4 beautiful lucky bamboo shoots.
8. I allow hot chocolate to ferment in my mug a few too many times. gross.
9. I used to hate cooking, but am slowly being changed and accumulated at least 4 cookbooks over Christmas.
10. I'm a huge fan of simplicity, and desire to live simply.
11. My feet are about 1/2 inch different in length... talk about shoe-shopping problems.
12. I'm quite possibly addicted to cheese. Specifically yellow cheddar cheese.
13. At home I sleep with 4 blankets, a hoodie and sweatpants. Nice 'n cozy. (dorm room is too hot for that!)
14. I'm a sucker for black and white photography.
15. I hate coffee.
16. At the moment, I'm addicted to Hillsong and Hillsong United... and the free music on NoiseTrade.
17. I love going to the zoo.
18. I have a knack for finding random (but wonderful!) items at yard sales and bargain stores---for really cheap!
19. I don't like English/grammar. As has probably been evidenced.
20. My journal and listening to music saved (and continue to save) my sanity repeatedly.
21. I love to have spontaneous, long conversations, one-on-one or in small groups.
22. House churches, as a ministry of a larger church, fascinate me.
23. My dream house is not big, but has room for an extra person---in case they need to a place to live.
24. I am continually writing down quotes and song lyrics.
25. I love wild and "home-grown" flowers.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Radical Alternative?
Tomorrow I will be faced with the opportunity to present Christian pacifism (or should we say the "Third Way"---active nonviolence) as I understand it. I will be discussing this with about 25 other people, most of whom grew up with just-war theory and believe just-war to be the solution. Some have never heard of Christian pacifism; some have heard of it from angry, aggressive "pacifists." I will undoubtedly be dealt ever-so-familiar questions: "What would you do if..." "What if we hadn't fought in WWII and stopped Hitler..." "How can you sit back while thousands of innocent people are oppressed..." "What about 'there is a time for everything, a time for peace and a time for war'..."
Here are some of my thoughts.
Pacifism is not only choosing against war, or choosing not to participate in the military. Pacifism is a lifestyle, an attitude towards life and others... which some tend to neglect.
"Ethical humility reminds pacifists who sometimes slip into moral pride or the illusion of perfectionism that they too stand before God in daily need of his forgiveness and grace." (Choosing Against War, John Roth)
Conflict, violence and the sin of human nature will not be resolved until the kingdom of God transforms the globe. But we are still called to be peacemakers---to be in the world, but not of it.
The kingdom of God is the radical alternative to the kingdom of the world. Do we truly believe this?
Are we placing more confidence in the ability of Christians to influence society by political means or by distinctly kingdom-of-God means?
If we are to live according to the kingdom of God, providing a radical alternative, what is the difference of a Christian going to war and a non-Christian going to war?
As the sun rises tomorrow, I pray that God will grant grace and courage to present the third option in love. I'd appreciate your prayers, especially around 1:00 p.m.!
Here are some of my thoughts.
Pacifism is not only choosing against war, or choosing not to participate in the military. Pacifism is a lifestyle, an attitude towards life and others... which some tend to neglect.
"Ethical humility reminds pacifists who sometimes slip into moral pride or the illusion of perfectionism that they too stand before God in daily need of his forgiveness and grace." (Choosing Against War, John Roth)
Conflict, violence and the sin of human nature will not be resolved until the kingdom of God transforms the globe. But we are still called to be peacemakers---to be in the world, but not of it.
The kingdom of God is the radical alternative to the kingdom of the world. Do we truly believe this?
Are we placing more confidence in the ability of Christians to influence society by political means or by distinctly kingdom-of-God means?
If we are to live according to the kingdom of God, providing a radical alternative, what is the difference of a Christian going to war and a non-Christian going to war?
As the sun rises tomorrow, I pray that God will grant grace and courage to present the third option in love. I'd appreciate your prayers, especially around 1:00 p.m.!
Friday, January 16, 2009
Crisis.
It is so easy for us to become so consumed with the day-to-day requirements that we forget to look beyond the weather here, the this morning, the to-do list this afternoon, and the party tomorrow evening. We forget to look beyond ourselves to a world that is dying before our eyes.
Violence in the Middle East.
Hopefully that statement comes as no surprise to anyone; violence is present in so many areas of the world, and especially concentrated in the Middle East and parts of Africa and Asia. However, I think many of us overlook a now-21-day crisis in Gaza, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Not many of us are aware that more than 1,100 Palestinians have died, more than 5,000 Palestinians are injured, countless others homeless refugees. Not many of us are aware that at least 13 Israelis have died and others are injured. Not many of us are aware that it seems as though each day humanitarian aid (food, health supplies, shelter, etc) are turned away or destroyed in attacks on Gaza. Not many of us are aware that each refugee is only given 6 pieces of bread each day.
And we have the audacity to fear and complain about our "hopeless" economic times? Yes, we are in a different position than we were several years ago, economy-wise. But, we are still blessed beyond what we deserve. How can we possibly complain when there is a deadly, heartbreaking crisis happening in Gaza?
Perhaps this is my soapbox for the day, for the week or for the month. I'm not sure why this crisis touches my heart and mind in this way. I've never gone to the Middle East, I don't know anyone personally who lives in Gaza, and I'm not typically one to keep up-to-date on political/national/global events. Certainly violence is nothing new to our minds (although many of us cannot imagine the physical and emotional horror of it), and certainly not to this area of the world. But, that doesn't mean we shouldn't care. So what part of this story gets to me? I'm not sure.
But I am sure that we should be on our knees concerning this situation. We have brothers and sisters in Gaza who are hiding, avoiding and fleeing attacks for their lives.
I am sure that we should be relooking at our current financial state and praising God for His provisions, even now in these "difficult times" (by Western definition, of course).
I am sure that we should be writing Gaza on our hands, on our mirrors, on our doors to remind ourselves of the life-threatening crisis in the Middle East.
Please pray for a strong ceasefire and peace in Gaza. They need us to be their brothers and sisters, even in the midst of our busy schedules of Western lives and worries.
Violence in the Middle East.
Hopefully that statement comes as no surprise to anyone; violence is present in so many areas of the world, and especially concentrated in the Middle East and parts of Africa and Asia. However, I think many of us overlook a now-21-day crisis in Gaza, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Not many of us are aware that more than 1,100 Palestinians have died, more than 5,000 Palestinians are injured, countless others homeless refugees. Not many of us are aware that at least 13 Israelis have died and others are injured. Not many of us are aware that it seems as though each day humanitarian aid (food, health supplies, shelter, etc) are turned away or destroyed in attacks on Gaza. Not many of us are aware that each refugee is only given 6 pieces of bread each day.
And we have the audacity to fear and complain about our "hopeless" economic times? Yes, we are in a different position than we were several years ago, economy-wise. But, we are still blessed beyond what we deserve. How can we possibly complain when there is a deadly, heartbreaking crisis happening in Gaza?
Perhaps this is my soapbox for the day, for the week or for the month. I'm not sure why this crisis touches my heart and mind in this way. I've never gone to the Middle East, I don't know anyone personally who lives in Gaza, and I'm not typically one to keep up-to-date on political/national/global events. Certainly violence is nothing new to our minds (although many of us cannot imagine the physical and emotional horror of it), and certainly not to this area of the world. But, that doesn't mean we shouldn't care. So what part of this story gets to me? I'm not sure.
But I am sure that we should be on our knees concerning this situation. We have brothers and sisters in Gaza who are hiding, avoiding and fleeing attacks for their lives.
I am sure that we should be relooking at our current financial state and praising God for His provisions, even now in these "difficult times" (by Western definition, of course).
I am sure that we should be writing Gaza on our hands, on our mirrors, on our doors to remind ourselves of the life-threatening crisis in the Middle East.
Please pray for a strong ceasefire and peace in Gaza. They need us to be their brothers and sisters, even in the midst of our busy schedules of Western lives and worries.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Not Just Numbers.
The following is a blogpost from Peter Miller, one of several MCC workers in Palestine who are keeping a blog to shed some light on the crisis in Gaza. This is staggering; please pray for peace.
Other contributors to this blog have noted how pervasive news coverage of
Gaza is within Palestine. On buses, the radio seems to constantly be tuned to
the latest update from Gaza. At the grocery store, the TV behind the counter
shows clips of rubble and mangled limbs and IDF spokespersons. At the internet
cafe, computers display Facebook groups announcing the next demonstration. In
this whirlwind of images and sounds and information, we wait for the numbers.
The numbers of the dead, the numbers of the injured, the number of days that
this catastrophe has continued. These numbers are always changing---always
growing.
These are the numbers that I am encountering today (unless otherwise noted,
figures are from the United Nations):
19 days of death and destruction
971 Palestinians dead
----311 children
----76 women
4,418 Palestinians injured
----1,549 children
----652 women
9 Israeli soldiers dead
4 Israeli civilians dead
58 Israeli civilians injured
4 UN staffers killed
6 UN staffers injured
49 UN buildings damaged or destroyed
4 aid convoys attacked
3 rockets fired from Lebanon into Israel this morning
8 shells fired back at Lebanon from Israel this morning
35,520 Gazans are displaced due to the fighting6 pieces of bread given to each displaced person each day by the UN
38 of 47 bakeries have been closed due to shelling
28 of 58 Palestinian Ministry of Health healthcare centers have been closed due to shelling
1 Christian health clinic completely destroyed by an air strike
½ million Gazans do not have running water
170 babies born in Gaza every day
56% of Gazans are children under age 18
100,000 Spanish demonstrators demanding an end to attacks in Gaza
1.5 million people live in Gaza (similar to the population of Idaho)
139 sq. miles--the size of Gaza (twice the size of Washington, D.C.)I have a hard time keeping track of these numbers. After a while they start to lose their strength and their meaning. After 19 days of tallies and analysis, it is easy for me to forget that every number has incalculable meaning to someone else.
The difference between 5 pieces of bread and 6 pieces of bread means something to
someone in Gaza. Healthcare center number 32 used to be just down the street
from a family in Gaza and now they have to take their sick and injured
elsewhere. The fourth Israeli soldier killed in this conflict has a mother who's
life will never be the same. The 170th baby born later today—if she survives the
coming weeks—will grow up in a devastated society. Protestor number 87,312
believed that he should skip work to march through the streets of Madrid as an
act of solidarity with Gazans.These numbers matter.
Behind every number is a story and a person.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Write It Down.
You want a man who will lead you down the beach, with his hand over your eyes, just so you can discover the feel of the sand beneath your feet. You want a guy who will wake you up at dawn, just bursting to talk to you---he can't wait another minute just to find out what you'll say.
from Runaway Bride . . . I think that's the right movie . . . ?
from Runaway Bride . . . I think that's the right movie . . . ?
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Here and Now.
How would I know the sunrise, if I knew not midnight?
I just finished listening to a song that is currently one of my favorites, Sunrise, by Nichole Nordeman. To me, it's a powerful song speaking to the point of struggles, pain, heartbreak, "valleys". . . all those things that we use to describe the difficulties in life. It seems we are always looking on the other side of the fence, wishing we were somewhere else, wondering why we have to experience this, now? I certainly find myself asking that, and I'm not even out in "real life" yet.
We need to learn to live in the here and now. Not obsessively so, but sometimes we (especially my peers and I) get so focused on tomorrow, next week, next year, that we forget to watch how God is working right now, we forget to learn what He is teaching right now. Too often we rush through today to get to tomorrow, because either we hate the realities of today or long for the dreams of tomorrow. Living fully today does not mean that we resign to the thought that tomorrow will be exactly like today and nothing will ever change. It just means accepting today, for now, serving the most through it and gaining the most wisdom, strength, grace and patience from it.
Sometimes this also means living with the questions of today without needing to know the answers. A friend shared a quote with me about this from Rainer Maria Rilke:
Who knows, maybe today is meant to make tomorrow even more beautiful? Maybe midnight today will make tomorrow's sunrise even more breath-taking. . .
I certainly hope so! : )
I just finished listening to a song that is currently one of my favorites, Sunrise, by Nichole Nordeman. To me, it's a powerful song speaking to the point of struggles, pain, heartbreak, "valleys". . . all those things that we use to describe the difficulties in life. It seems we are always looking on the other side of the fence, wishing we were somewhere else, wondering why we have to experience this, now? I certainly find myself asking that, and I'm not even out in "real life" yet.
We need to learn to live in the here and now. Not obsessively so, but sometimes we (especially my peers and I) get so focused on tomorrow, next week, next year, that we forget to watch how God is working right now, we forget to learn what He is teaching right now. Too often we rush through today to get to tomorrow, because either we hate the realities of today or long for the dreams of tomorrow. Living fully today does not mean that we resign to the thought that tomorrow will be exactly like today and nothing will ever change. It just means accepting today, for now, serving the most through it and gaining the most wisdom, strength, grace and patience from it.
Sometimes this also means living with the questions of today without needing to know the answers. A friend shared a quote with me about this from Rainer Maria Rilke:
"Have patience with everything that remains unsolved in
your heart. Try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like
books written in a foreign language. Do not now look for the answers. They
cannot now be given to you because you could not live them. It is a question of
experiencing everything. At present you need to live the question. Perhaps you
will gradually, without even noticing it, find yourself experiencing the answer,
some distant day."
Who knows, maybe today is meant to make tomorrow even more beautiful? Maybe midnight today will make tomorrow's sunrise even more breath-taking. . .
I certainly hope so! : )
Friday, January 09, 2009
Back.
The semester has started, with quite a whirlwind. Following a long-enough drive back to campus and a late night unpacking, I woke up Tuesday morning with a not-so-happy stomach. Thought it was just nervous and excitement about starting the new semester... until it lasted all day. Ugh. Thankfully, Wednesday was better.
But, Thursday arrived and whatever the bug was (I know... so "professional" and "educated" of someone in nursing school!) hit me with a vengeance. However, typically treatment: rest, clear fluids, rest and clear fluids helped and (so far) I've been feeling much better today.
The forecast: Lots of reading this semester, which I am not necessarily looking forward to. And, otherwise, the syllabi seem overwhelming.... but, then again, they always do in the first week!
But, Thursday arrived and whatever the bug was (I know... so "professional" and "educated" of someone in nursing school!) hit me with a vengeance. However, typically treatment: rest, clear fluids, rest and clear fluids helped and (so far) I've been feeling much better today.
The forecast: Lots of reading this semester, which I am not necessarily looking forward to. And, otherwise, the syllabi seem overwhelming.... but, then again, they always do in the first week!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
