WOW!! It's so hard for me to believe that it is December already...it just does not seem like it would be possible because there is no change in weather here to indicate seasons in the country! BUT...the exciting part of this is that I am coming home in only 11 days!! I am very anxious to get home and spend some much needed time with family and friends and being able to relax a little bit :-)
Things have been going well here, really just getting into the daily routine of school. Bible Study, tutoring, Spanish classes and trying to find some time to just enjoy life as well! I've found myself doing exactly what I said I was not going to do...get so busy! When I was in the States, I was always busy, having committments almost every night of the week and I swore not to do that here...well, so much for that plan!! However, I feel that it is good for me to be busy because it can keep my mind of realizing that I'm thousands of miles from home. I guess it will just make me appreciate my time at home even that much more! HOWEVER, I would love to be busy visiting with lots of you guys...seeing familiar faces will be so appreciated!
Just a few things I'd like to share for you to keep in prayer:
*I got a car!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It's a whole new life for me here...I'm so thankful that I found a good car for a good price. I've already noticed a few things that the seller may have "forgot" to mention that may need fixed, but none of the issues seem to be too big of a deal. I've been so fortunate to meet a North American man who is a very honest mechanic :-) I'm hoping that he will keep my car while I'm home over Christmas and get the issue fixed without spending a lot of time and money going in to it. This is most exciting for me to think of the many other ministries that I have been wanting to get involved in, but haven't felt like I could committ to things without knowing if I would be able to get there, so I'm excited to see what else Managua has to offer :-)
*On that same note, pray for my roommate Emily. I have NEVER driven a stick before and lessons start today :-) Pray that I would pick it up quickly and that there are no major accidents to report :-)
*As I already mentioned, this is a very busy time of year (I'm sure for many of you as well). I just ask that you pray for things to get wrapped up around here so all of us that are traveling home for the Christmas season can truly relax and enjoy our time in our homes!
*I got my true taste of motherhood last week...Emily and I went at stayed with the 5 children at the orphanage...WOW!!! I can't think of a a time when I've been more exhausted than I was last Sunday. Pray for Leo, Frankie, Ophelia, Yulka, and Emily. They need so many things and have experienced so many things in their lives...pray that God would provide their daily needs in big ways.
*Thanks to God for a successful bike trip down the eastern coast of this beautiful country over the Thanksgiving weekend. Of course, I did not ride a bike...I was part of the "support team." I rode in a car and helped people with medical issues (thankfully there were not very many) and getting drinks and snacks as needed. We stayed in a NATURAL RESERVE. I think it's a good thing that I didn't know what that meant before they drove me almost down to Costa Rica and dropped us here...not a super fun experiece, however the beach was BEAUTIFUL and we got to see a sea turtle lay her eggs in the sand...what an amazing experience! The trip was to raise awareness and financial support for the Luke Society here in Nicaragua, a organization that is founded with CRWRC.
I'm looking forward to seeing many of you over Christmas. I am going to ATTEMPT to order my photos from my time here so they are waiting for me when I get back to the States so I can share them with you. I am also planning to share a small bit about my time here in church on January 2 so I hope to see many of you there.
Thanks for your support, both prayerfully and financially. I am one blessed girl! I pray that you all have a wonderful blessed Christmas season in light of the birth of our King!
Blessings~
Angie
Oh, and one more thing...just for those of you who will want to get in touch with me over Christmas (I would love to get together with as many of you as I can) I will be either at my parents house or Amy's and do plan to check e-mail regularly and will have my States cell phone if you need to contact me. That number is 641-780-2741.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
My Big Top Adventure
I've added a few more pictures...enjoy! Things are going well here, and I'm getting REALLY excited to come home in 2 1/2 weeks...can't wait to see many of you over my 3 1/2 week trip to the States!
Saturday, November 6, 2010
November...WHAT?!?!?!?!?!
Hello friends and family~
I hope this finds you all well!
I've been terrible at keeping everyone up to date...life has been busy!
Not a whole lot new to report, things at NCA are going well...I've been getting more involved with the counseling department and that has been fun for me, since this is where my passion is. Great kiddos I'm working with in a lot of tough home situations. When I talk with them, I'm SO thankful for the home and community that I grew up in. It makes a WORLD of difference. I'm still teaching English to my boys, I think they're stuck with me :-) The other girl who was supposed to do it kind of backed out, so I am still teaching English every day. It's good for me, I really love the boys and was very sad to think of not working with them anymore. I always wonder if what I'm doing is helpful with them, I just don't feel adequate. God knows...this week I had 3 teachers tell me how much they have improved in English, so I must be doing something right :-)
I had the opportunity to go to an orphanage in El Crucero last weekend and work with 5 babies who were rescued from the Atantic Coast...and I FELL IN LOVE!!! I am going back today (Saturday) and just want to go live there. The stories of their little lives are heartbreaking, I just pray that God would provide all their needs. I told my mom I might have 5 little mouths to feed at Christmas...I just want to take them home :-) It's been a GREAT experience and one that I'm so thankful to have had, it really is an eye opening experience.
In the social aspect of things...I've been going to lots of movies and attempting to go to baseball games (that's a whole other story) and hanging out with friends. It's good for me to be busy. I'm hoping to get to the beach at least one more time before I come home at Christmas :-) THings are going well, and I'm so thankful that I've found a few really good friends here to help me keep my sanity :-)
My mom flies in on Wednesday and I am so excited! She stays for only a few days, but I'm planning to keep her very busy :-) It's so nice to have people come visit, it helps fight the homesickness aspect of it all. I've been struggling with that, but I realize that I'm not the only one and we all just know when we need a night out do distract ourselves from thinking about it :-) I love visitors and if you're reading this, consider it your official invitation to come to Nicaragua, I promise you would enjoy it :-) The time with my sisters are great, we were pretty lazy (can you believe it?!??) and didn't do much of anything besides just catch up. We went to San Juan Del Sur which is about 5 miles from Costa Rica and stayed at a great bed and breakfast there. Their time here was all too short, but I appreciated them coming, it was a fun time!
I have lots of preyer requests this time!
~Update on the legal situation: Liam just informed us that nothing new has happened with the case. Like everything else in this country, it's taking a long time. Continue to pray that the right actions will be taken and for a hedge of protection around all the staff and students at NCA. Sounds like it could still get ugly...
~My principal, Slyvia, had a miscarraige yesterday. She has a son who is 17 and has been trying to have another baby since he was born. She was SO excited to be having another baby, so this is devestating news. Pray for her and her family as well as us at the school so that we can support her in the best ways we can.
~I've been working on my Spanish and it's going pretty well. Pray that I continue to pick up the language and for patience for my tutor as he tries to teach me. A lot of times he laughs at me and says "Do you know what you just said?"
~Financial support is a huge need for my work at NCA. Thanks to God (and many of you) I was able to surpass my fundraising goal for this past semster. However, since I decdied to come back next semester I need to raise $9000. Pray for God's provision in the financial aspect so that I can continue my work at NCA. I feel so blessed to be here because I know this is where God has called me to be.
~I've really been wanting a car and I ask that you pray for God to show me the right way in this situation. It's been very frustrating to share a car with 3 other people and I at times feel very trapped and unable to really get invovled with other ministries that I would like to be involved with because I have no transportation. I just pray that God will provide a car and that it will be a good car (those can be hard to find here.)
~Pray for Frankie, Yulka, Ophelia, Leo, and Emily...the 5 kiddos at Que Mas Vencedores (More Than Conquers), the orphanage up in El Crucero. Pray that God would provide all their needs and that he would open the hearts of their forever families so that they may find a home.
~Praise God for the safety and protection he's given us as we travel out and about. It's amazing how many times in the car we've felt God's hand of protection. People aren't great drivers here, so it's great to know we're in good hands!
~Pray for safe travel for my mama as she comes on Wednesday. She has long days in the airports, so hopefully all flights are on time, safe and good for her. She'll be sleeping before the wheels are up...
~I slept though my first earthquake yesterday morning...yea, I slept though it. Pray that God would not send anything like that to this country and that he would keep us all safe. We were talking about it last night and feeling very at risk for a bigger earthquake here and feeling more vulnerable, but ultimately decided that God's plan prevails no matter where we live and what event He puts in our lives, it still just feels a bit more scary after there was an actual earthquake yesterday.
If you have a second, I encourage you to check out the pictures, there are some fun ones of the babies at the orphanage. One look and you'll see why I'm in love :-)
Thanks for all your prayers and support...it's epic! I love getting e-mails and notes from all of you, so keep them coming!
Blessings~
Angie
I hope this finds you all well!
I've been terrible at keeping everyone up to date...life has been busy!
Not a whole lot new to report, things at NCA are going well...I've been getting more involved with the counseling department and that has been fun for me, since this is where my passion is. Great kiddos I'm working with in a lot of tough home situations. When I talk with them, I'm SO thankful for the home and community that I grew up in. It makes a WORLD of difference. I'm still teaching English to my boys, I think they're stuck with me :-) The other girl who was supposed to do it kind of backed out, so I am still teaching English every day. It's good for me, I really love the boys and was very sad to think of not working with them anymore. I always wonder if what I'm doing is helpful with them, I just don't feel adequate. God knows...this week I had 3 teachers tell me how much they have improved in English, so I must be doing something right :-)
I had the opportunity to go to an orphanage in El Crucero last weekend and work with 5 babies who were rescued from the Atantic Coast...and I FELL IN LOVE!!! I am going back today (Saturday) and just want to go live there. The stories of their little lives are heartbreaking, I just pray that God would provide all their needs. I told my mom I might have 5 little mouths to feed at Christmas...I just want to take them home :-) It's been a GREAT experience and one that I'm so thankful to have had, it really is an eye opening experience.
In the social aspect of things...I've been going to lots of movies and attempting to go to baseball games (that's a whole other story) and hanging out with friends. It's good for me to be busy. I'm hoping to get to the beach at least one more time before I come home at Christmas :-) THings are going well, and I'm so thankful that I've found a few really good friends here to help me keep my sanity :-)
My mom flies in on Wednesday and I am so excited! She stays for only a few days, but I'm planning to keep her very busy :-) It's so nice to have people come visit, it helps fight the homesickness aspect of it all. I've been struggling with that, but I realize that I'm not the only one and we all just know when we need a night out do distract ourselves from thinking about it :-) I love visitors and if you're reading this, consider it your official invitation to come to Nicaragua, I promise you would enjoy it :-) The time with my sisters are great, we were pretty lazy (can you believe it?!??) and didn't do much of anything besides just catch up. We went to San Juan Del Sur which is about 5 miles from Costa Rica and stayed at a great bed and breakfast there. Their time here was all too short, but I appreciated them coming, it was a fun time!
I have lots of preyer requests this time!
~Update on the legal situation: Liam just informed us that nothing new has happened with the case. Like everything else in this country, it's taking a long time. Continue to pray that the right actions will be taken and for a hedge of protection around all the staff and students at NCA. Sounds like it could still get ugly...
~My principal, Slyvia, had a miscarraige yesterday. She has a son who is 17 and has been trying to have another baby since he was born. She was SO excited to be having another baby, so this is devestating news. Pray for her and her family as well as us at the school so that we can support her in the best ways we can.
~I've been working on my Spanish and it's going pretty well. Pray that I continue to pick up the language and for patience for my tutor as he tries to teach me. A lot of times he laughs at me and says "Do you know what you just said?"
~Financial support is a huge need for my work at NCA. Thanks to God (and many of you) I was able to surpass my fundraising goal for this past semster. However, since I decdied to come back next semester I need to raise $9000. Pray for God's provision in the financial aspect so that I can continue my work at NCA. I feel so blessed to be here because I know this is where God has called me to be.
~I've really been wanting a car and I ask that you pray for God to show me the right way in this situation. It's been very frustrating to share a car with 3 other people and I at times feel very trapped and unable to really get invovled with other ministries that I would like to be involved with because I have no transportation. I just pray that God will provide a car and that it will be a good car (those can be hard to find here.)
~Pray for Frankie, Yulka, Ophelia, Leo, and Emily...the 5 kiddos at Que Mas Vencedores (More Than Conquers), the orphanage up in El Crucero. Pray that God would provide all their needs and that he would open the hearts of their forever families so that they may find a home.
~Praise God for the safety and protection he's given us as we travel out and about. It's amazing how many times in the car we've felt God's hand of protection. People aren't great drivers here, so it's great to know we're in good hands!
~Pray for safe travel for my mama as she comes on Wednesday. She has long days in the airports, so hopefully all flights are on time, safe and good for her. She'll be sleeping before the wheels are up...
~I slept though my first earthquake yesterday morning...yea, I slept though it. Pray that God would not send anything like that to this country and that he would keep us all safe. We were talking about it last night and feeling very at risk for a bigger earthquake here and feeling more vulnerable, but ultimately decided that God's plan prevails no matter where we live and what event He puts in our lives, it still just feels a bit more scary after there was an actual earthquake yesterday.
If you have a second, I encourage you to check out the pictures, there are some fun ones of the babies at the orphanage. One look and you'll see why I'm in love :-)
Thanks for all your prayers and support...it's epic! I love getting e-mails and notes from all of you, so keep them coming!
Blessings~
Angie
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Monday, October 11, 2010
Happy Monday...again!!
Hello all~
Hope everyone is enjoying the fall weather...unfortunatly, we don't have that!!! It's been REALLY hot and humid these past few days, but no rain, so that's a huge blessing! I believe for the first time in my life, I'm looking forward to SNOW when I come home in 2 months!!
I don't have a lot of news here, but I just wanted to share with you all that today I have officially decided to stay at NCA through the end of the year! So, that means I'll come home for Christmas on December 16 and need to be back in Nicaragua on January 5. I'm VERY CONTENT with my decision, and I know that I am doing the right thing! Most of the people at the school are very excited to hear this too! I've been SO blessed with great friends here, and I just couldn't imagine leaving in 9 weeks and not coming back!
I'm not sure what my role will be now since I will be staying, I have a feeling I will be getting much more involved with the counseling program. I am picking up 2 more kids this week and ending my ESL days with the boys. I'm excited about picking up the counseling kids, and sad to end my time with the boys. As tough as it has been, I have grown to love them very much and appreciate their personalities and differences. Samuel has been very serious in his work and to get a laugh out of him can be tough, but Miaco has a very spunky personality and it is fun to see their differences. They were both very sad to hear that I would not be working with them anymore, Maico had tears and I admit, I got sad too. BUT, I know that I can be used in different ways. PLUS, when their new teacher has to sub or can't make it, I get to fill in, so I know I will still get to hang out with them some. They are SO sweet though and I will miss working with them.
We have a student in 3rd grade who we believe has Ausburgers, so I am guessing I will be spending some time with him. He's a super sweetie and I'm looking forward to tackling this big case. It will be new for me, I have not worked much with kids with Ausburgurs, but I look forward to it!
Thanks again for all your notes and prayers! It's been kind of a rough few weeks with issues at school and just feeling very homesick, but I can feel the prayers and appreciate the encouragment from all of you! Also, I have people ask about supporting my ministry financially...there is a link on the blog to do that to. Know how much I appreciate it!!!
OH, and one more thing...I'm VERY excited to tell you that my sisters are coming on Thursday...great timing! Please pray for safety in their travels and for us as we travel on Friday to San Juan Del Sur for a relaxing weekend...I need a weekend away from "normal". They leave all too soon again next Monday morning, but it will be GREAT!!! Pray for safety and relaxation for all of us.
Blessings~
Angie
Hope everyone is enjoying the fall weather...unfortunatly, we don't have that!!! It's been REALLY hot and humid these past few days, but no rain, so that's a huge blessing! I believe for the first time in my life, I'm looking forward to SNOW when I come home in 2 months!!
I don't have a lot of news here, but I just wanted to share with you all that today I have officially decided to stay at NCA through the end of the year! So, that means I'll come home for Christmas on December 16 and need to be back in Nicaragua on January 5. I'm VERY CONTENT with my decision, and I know that I am doing the right thing! Most of the people at the school are very excited to hear this too! I've been SO blessed with great friends here, and I just couldn't imagine leaving in 9 weeks and not coming back!
I'm not sure what my role will be now since I will be staying, I have a feeling I will be getting much more involved with the counseling program. I am picking up 2 more kids this week and ending my ESL days with the boys. I'm excited about picking up the counseling kids, and sad to end my time with the boys. As tough as it has been, I have grown to love them very much and appreciate their personalities and differences. Samuel has been very serious in his work and to get a laugh out of him can be tough, but Miaco has a very spunky personality and it is fun to see their differences. They were both very sad to hear that I would not be working with them anymore, Maico had tears and I admit, I got sad too. BUT, I know that I can be used in different ways. PLUS, when their new teacher has to sub or can't make it, I get to fill in, so I know I will still get to hang out with them some. They are SO sweet though and I will miss working with them.
We have a student in 3rd grade who we believe has Ausburgers, so I am guessing I will be spending some time with him. He's a super sweetie and I'm looking forward to tackling this big case. It will be new for me, I have not worked much with kids with Ausburgurs, but I look forward to it!
Thanks again for all your notes and prayers! It's been kind of a rough few weeks with issues at school and just feeling very homesick, but I can feel the prayers and appreciate the encouragment from all of you! Also, I have people ask about supporting my ministry financially...there is a link on the blog to do that to. Know how much I appreciate it!!!
OH, and one more thing...I'm VERY excited to tell you that my sisters are coming on Thursday...great timing! Please pray for safety in their travels and for us as we travel on Friday to San Juan Del Sur for a relaxing weekend...I need a weekend away from "normal". They leave all too soon again next Monday morning, but it will be GREAT!!! Pray for safety and relaxation for all of us.
Blessings~
Angie
Monday, October 4, 2010
Happy Monday!
I just had to share this funny...
So, a lot of the kiddos in first grade don't quite have the writing skills down, as you can read from the letter below from my buddy Oscar. One of the biggest problems is kids using b for d, and d for b. So, today that assignment was to write about what kind of animal they would like to see if they went to the zoo or on a safari. I'll just leave you with the first sentence of little Miss Alyssa's journal entry.
I love beer.
I could not stop laughing...
Enjoy today!
So, a lot of the kiddos in first grade don't quite have the writing skills down, as you can read from the letter below from my buddy Oscar. One of the biggest problems is kids using b for d, and d for b. So, today that assignment was to write about what kind of animal they would like to see if they went to the zoo or on a safari. I'll just leave you with the first sentence of little Miss Alyssa's journal entry.
I love beer.
I could not stop laughing...
Enjoy today!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
My Big Top Adventure
OK, I think this may have worked...click on the picture and it should take you to my album. Enjoy!
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Is it really almost October?!?!?!?!
Hi friends and family-
I hope this finds you all well! I should apologize for not being a very "updative" person...it's been a busy week! THANKS for those of you who check in with me over e-mail and Facebook...you're so sweet to send notes of encouragement and prayers on my behalf. They are SO appreciated and I am truly grateful!
I'm not sure when I even last updated, so I'll start where I think I left off.
September has been a busy month, including a super fun surprise visit to the States :-) We had time of for Nicaragua Independance Day (September 15) and the Battle of San Juancito day (September 14) so I came home. I think I got every one pretty good! I flew in to Chicago on September 11 where Amy picked me up and took me to Rock Island, Illinois to surprise my family. The only thoughts I really have on that is that is worked! I think everyone was pretty surprised. If you want the best version of the story, ask Don DeWaard :-) It was AMAZING to be home for a week and to see so many familiar faces. I would say that I have learned how very true the statement is about not knowing what you've got until it's gone. I miss everyone so much...it's tough some days. But I know I'm in the right place and it makes it just that much more sweet to come home!
So, after a week in the States, I flew back to Nicaragua on September 18 to the HOTNESS and rain once again. This week has been good, but it's been adjusting back in to my new life. Most of the kids were pretty excited when I was back at school on Monday morning, and I have to admit, it was great to see them too...
This week has been good, but brought lots of prayer requests:
Samuel (one of my ESL boys) was playing futbol on the playground and he fell. He ended up being taken to the hospital in the ambulance with an incomplete fracture to his collar bone. He was one scared little boy, so pray for quick and complete healing for him. Pray also that the boys pick up on the language and that what I am teaching them is helpful. So many days I feel inadequate to be teaching them, and I just pray that what I teach them will be used to help them.
We had a special meeting on Thursday morning at school. There is a family who has pulled their children from NCA because they believe that a situation dealing with the discipline of their child was inappropriate and they have taken legal action against the school. It has been on the Nicaragua news, and the lawyer working with this family is relentless. God's hand has been seen in SO many ways over the past few days, but PLEASE pray for God's protection over the school, the students, and all of us teachers. People go all out here in Nicaragua, and Liam told us basically not to talk to anyone that we don't know...he's unsure of what this lawyer will all do to get our name run through the mud. So, this is a big concern for all of us now. As of now, nothing has happened but I just ask that you pray that continues.
Safety...we are sandwiched between 2 hurricanes right now and we just CAN NOT handle the rain right now. So much flooding and destruction that is just not helpful in this country. Hurricane Matthew was supposed to be very unkind to us on Friday and Saturday, and PRAISE GOD we did not see much rain. However, there is apparently another one coming. So, please pray that these hurricanes change their paths, or better yet, dissolve.
I have been able to get back in to a work out routine and run around my complex. However, my hip has been really bothering me and I just ask that you would pray that my hip pain would go away and that I would be able to continue getting active again :-) Some mornings it's tough to walk for about a half hour, so it's not so much fun, but it has been feeling somewhat better, so for that I'm thankful.
It is time for me to decide what to do next semester. Just be in prayer for me to make the best decision for me. My desires and the Lord's may be different, just pray that we get in sync and that His will is carried out in my life! I know what I want to do, but I want to be sure that it's the right thing...
THANKS to God for the cooler weather, I've been wearing sweaters. One good thing about these hurricanes is that it really cools things off. I am so glad that I did bring a fleece blanket and some sweaters, they've been useful.
Thanks again for all the prayers and support, it's awesome!
I have tried unsucessfully several times to get picutres on here, as soon as I can find someone who knows what they are doing...I'll add them here :-)
Blessings~
Angie
I hope this finds you all well! I should apologize for not being a very "updative" person...it's been a busy week! THANKS for those of you who check in with me over e-mail and Facebook...you're so sweet to send notes of encouragement and prayers on my behalf. They are SO appreciated and I am truly grateful!
I'm not sure when I even last updated, so I'll start where I think I left off.
September has been a busy month, including a super fun surprise visit to the States :-) We had time of for Nicaragua Independance Day (September 15) and the Battle of San Juancito day (September 14) so I came home. I think I got every one pretty good! I flew in to Chicago on September 11 where Amy picked me up and took me to Rock Island, Illinois to surprise my family. The only thoughts I really have on that is that is worked! I think everyone was pretty surprised. If you want the best version of the story, ask Don DeWaard :-) It was AMAZING to be home for a week and to see so many familiar faces. I would say that I have learned how very true the statement is about not knowing what you've got until it's gone. I miss everyone so much...it's tough some days. But I know I'm in the right place and it makes it just that much more sweet to come home!
So, after a week in the States, I flew back to Nicaragua on September 18 to the HOTNESS and rain once again. This week has been good, but it's been adjusting back in to my new life. Most of the kids were pretty excited when I was back at school on Monday morning, and I have to admit, it was great to see them too...
This week has been good, but brought lots of prayer requests:
Samuel (one of my ESL boys) was playing futbol on the playground and he fell. He ended up being taken to the hospital in the ambulance with an incomplete fracture to his collar bone. He was one scared little boy, so pray for quick and complete healing for him. Pray also that the boys pick up on the language and that what I am teaching them is helpful. So many days I feel inadequate to be teaching them, and I just pray that what I teach them will be used to help them.
We had a special meeting on Thursday morning at school. There is a family who has pulled their children from NCA because they believe that a situation dealing with the discipline of their child was inappropriate and they have taken legal action against the school. It has been on the Nicaragua news, and the lawyer working with this family is relentless. God's hand has been seen in SO many ways over the past few days, but PLEASE pray for God's protection over the school, the students, and all of us teachers. People go all out here in Nicaragua, and Liam told us basically not to talk to anyone that we don't know...he's unsure of what this lawyer will all do to get our name run through the mud. So, this is a big concern for all of us now. As of now, nothing has happened but I just ask that you pray that continues.
Safety...we are sandwiched between 2 hurricanes right now and we just CAN NOT handle the rain right now. So much flooding and destruction that is just not helpful in this country. Hurricane Matthew was supposed to be very unkind to us on Friday and Saturday, and PRAISE GOD we did not see much rain. However, there is apparently another one coming. So, please pray that these hurricanes change their paths, or better yet, dissolve.
I have been able to get back in to a work out routine and run around my complex. However, my hip has been really bothering me and I just ask that you would pray that my hip pain would go away and that I would be able to continue getting active again :-) Some mornings it's tough to walk for about a half hour, so it's not so much fun, but it has been feeling somewhat better, so for that I'm thankful.
It is time for me to decide what to do next semester. Just be in prayer for me to make the best decision for me. My desires and the Lord's may be different, just pray that we get in sync and that His will is carried out in my life! I know what I want to do, but I want to be sure that it's the right thing...
THANKS to God for the cooler weather, I've been wearing sweaters. One good thing about these hurricanes is that it really cools things off. I am so glad that I did bring a fleece blanket and some sweaters, they've been useful.
Thanks again for all the prayers and support, it's awesome!
I have tried unsucessfully several times to get picutres on here, as soon as I can find someone who knows what they are doing...I'll add them here :-)
Blessings~
Angie
Thursday, September 2, 2010
dear Mis angei...
Hello Friends and Supporters~
WOW, God is good!
Nicaragua has been great, and I'm having a great experience. Today is my official 4 week mark, and yet in some ways it feels like I left the States yesterday, and in other ways I feel like I've been here forever! Things have been going really well, and I feel like my transition has been smooth. There are always bumps im the road, but I suppose those are to be expected.
NCA has been doing well! I am spending my mornings in the first grade classroom with my 20 kiddos whom have gained much of my affection...well, most of them anyways! We have a few who are TOUGH kids from TOUGH homes and they decide if they're going to have a great day or a not so great day. So, that's been fun. I wake up every morning not really knowing what I'm going to get with a few of them. However, today the kids were learning how to write a letter and they all wrote them to Ms. Franklin, except one little sweeite who wrote to me. I'll give you a snipet of his letter to me (spelling of course done by him;-)
dear Miss angei-you are my Favorite teacher. I love you! miss Angei, can i come to your house? will you read books with me? You are butifool and I love you! Your friend, Oscar
AAHHH...makes all the bad days worth it in a small moment of sweet time!
2 mornings a week I'm meeting with 2 students in the 5th grade classroom on the counseling side of things. This week was my first week, but both kids really opened up to me, in fact I had to kick them out of the office :-) Both kids have trouble making and keeping friends, and I have a feeling I'll discover some pretty tough home lives once our relationships grow. Both are sweeties, just need a little good adult attention. Plus, considering I'm the "adult" we just have fun together :-) Both of these kids could use prayers, just in their own lives and in helping me to effectively help them.
OH, to my ESL days! My boys are great...but so frustrating! I feel like the blind leading the blind. It's been a tough thing to take on, but I know we must just keep going. The boys are great, but they are so done by 1:30 in the afternoon, and honestly so am I. So, motivation to get anything done has not been real easy. On a positive note, I have seem some progress with each of the boys and for that I am grateful. I just hope that whatever it is that we are doing that it does benefit them in some way!
So, that's a typical day in my life. Of course, there are some fun things too...
On Saturday, my roomate and a fellow co-worker at NCA are heading to San Juan del Sur. For those of you who don't know what that is...it's paradise :-) It's a great beach town on the Pacific Ocean, and also where they are currently filming SURVIVOR. So, pray for safety and RELAXATION this weekend, I know we are all looking forward to it! We have a teacher inservice day on Monday, so no kiddos but we have meetings all day. I have spent every Labor Day in Kanawha with my grandparents for my entire life, so it will be a little bit tough to not be there, but I know I'll have fun too.
Next week at school we also have an Independance Day festival. The kids do presentations on Nicaragua and the festival includes dances by all the classes...and the teachers! We have dance practice 2 days a week and it's been really fun so far. I get a traditional Nica dress and I have to wear bright red lipstick. I'll be sure to post pictures on my blog (www.adewaard.blogspot.com) after the festival. I have attended one year when I was here to visit and I KNOW it will be a good time.
Sorry this got so wordy, I need to update more often so it doesn't have to be so long. A few more things...
Today at lunch some of the teachers were talking about a girl named Rachel who came to Nicaragua this week Monday and is REALLY wanting to go back to the States already. So, I got her number and called her and she's coming over tomorrow night. Please pray for Rachel, the first few days and weeks are such a whirlwind of emotions and I just pray that she would do what is best for her. Pray that I may help her in any way I can. I know I haven't been here too long, but I wanted to reach out to her. Movie and pizza night at our house, fun times!!
Another thing I wanted to share. I have been reading the book Crazy Love which I would highly recommend to anyone. One quote from the book that is really standing out to me is this:
God knew who He was creating, and He designed me for a specific work.
My prayer is that this statement is true for all of us...may we all find that specific work that we are designed to do.
Thanks for all your support and encouragement. I'm so sorry if I don't keep up well with e-mail. I've been getting quite a few (which I LOVE) but I just can't respond as quickly as I would like. Please keep in touch, it's so good for me to hear from home!
Have a great weekend everybody!
Blessings and Love~
Angie
WOW, God is good!
Nicaragua has been great, and I'm having a great experience. Today is my official 4 week mark, and yet in some ways it feels like I left the States yesterday, and in other ways I feel like I've been here forever! Things have been going really well, and I feel like my transition has been smooth. There are always bumps im the road, but I suppose those are to be expected.
NCA has been doing well! I am spending my mornings in the first grade classroom with my 20 kiddos whom have gained much of my affection...well, most of them anyways! We have a few who are TOUGH kids from TOUGH homes and they decide if they're going to have a great day or a not so great day. So, that's been fun. I wake up every morning not really knowing what I'm going to get with a few of them. However, today the kids were learning how to write a letter and they all wrote them to Ms. Franklin, except one little sweeite who wrote to me. I'll give you a snipet of his letter to me (spelling of course done by him;-)
dear Miss angei-you are my Favorite teacher. I love you! miss Angei, can i come to your house? will you read books with me? You are butifool and I love you! Your friend, Oscar
AAHHH...makes all the bad days worth it in a small moment of sweet time!
2 mornings a week I'm meeting with 2 students in the 5th grade classroom on the counseling side of things. This week was my first week, but both kids really opened up to me, in fact I had to kick them out of the office :-) Both kids have trouble making and keeping friends, and I have a feeling I'll discover some pretty tough home lives once our relationships grow. Both are sweeties, just need a little good adult attention. Plus, considering I'm the "adult" we just have fun together :-) Both of these kids could use prayers, just in their own lives and in helping me to effectively help them.
OH, to my ESL days! My boys are great...but so frustrating! I feel like the blind leading the blind. It's been a tough thing to take on, but I know we must just keep going. The boys are great, but they are so done by 1:30 in the afternoon, and honestly so am I. So, motivation to get anything done has not been real easy. On a positive note, I have seem some progress with each of the boys and for that I am grateful. I just hope that whatever it is that we are doing that it does benefit them in some way!
So, that's a typical day in my life. Of course, there are some fun things too...
On Saturday, my roomate and a fellow co-worker at NCA are heading to San Juan del Sur. For those of you who don't know what that is...it's paradise :-) It's a great beach town on the Pacific Ocean, and also where they are currently filming SURVIVOR. So, pray for safety and RELAXATION this weekend, I know we are all looking forward to it! We have a teacher inservice day on Monday, so no kiddos but we have meetings all day. I have spent every Labor Day in Kanawha with my grandparents for my entire life, so it will be a little bit tough to not be there, but I know I'll have fun too.
Next week at school we also have an Independance Day festival. The kids do presentations on Nicaragua and the festival includes dances by all the classes...and the teachers! We have dance practice 2 days a week and it's been really fun so far. I get a traditional Nica dress and I have to wear bright red lipstick. I'll be sure to post pictures on my blog (www.adewaard.blogspot.com) after the festival. I have attended one year when I was here to visit and I KNOW it will be a good time.
Sorry this got so wordy, I need to update more often so it doesn't have to be so long. A few more things...
Today at lunch some of the teachers were talking about a girl named Rachel who came to Nicaragua this week Monday and is REALLY wanting to go back to the States already. So, I got her number and called her and she's coming over tomorrow night. Please pray for Rachel, the first few days and weeks are such a whirlwind of emotions and I just pray that she would do what is best for her. Pray that I may help her in any way I can. I know I haven't been here too long, but I wanted to reach out to her. Movie and pizza night at our house, fun times!!
Another thing I wanted to share. I have been reading the book Crazy Love which I would highly recommend to anyone. One quote from the book that is really standing out to me is this:
God knew who He was creating, and He designed me for a specific work.
My prayer is that this statement is true for all of us...may we all find that specific work that we are designed to do.
Thanks for all your support and encouragement. I'm so sorry if I don't keep up well with e-mail. I've been getting quite a few (which I LOVE) but I just can't respond as quickly as I would like. Please keep in touch, it's so good for me to hear from home!
Have a great weekend everybody!
Blessings and Love~
Angie
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Update from the South
Things have been going very well in Nicaragua, I've felt really great about being in here, knowing that I'm doing the right thing! Last week, I was very sick and missed a few days of school. Last week was really tough because being sick made me feel very homesick, and it was a difficult week. However, I'm so happy to report that I am feeling totally better and adjusting has been a challenging and fun experience. I do ask for prayers in continued positive adjustments :-) I do miss my family and friends VERY much, but SKYPE is a wonderful thing and we use it alot.
Things at school are going well, and I just want to update everyone on my roles there. My mornings are spent with the 1st grade classroom of 20 kids. The maximum per class at NCA is 14, so by the numbers you can see that we're over. We have 11 children who speak English as a second language, so my role in the classroom is a very obvious need! It's been an interesting experience, but the adjustment has gone well.
Another one of my roles at NCA will be to work with the counselor. My first 2 students are both 5th graders just needing some help with emotional maturity and social skills. So, I start meeting with them next week. Pray that the tools that I use will be effective in shaping these young people.
And my last SUPRISE role is teaching an ESL class to 2 boys (brothers) who are in 3rd and 4th grade. THis is brand new, something that is causing me some stress but I know that God will use me in the best ways that he can. I will be having an intensive hour with these guys at the end of the school day EVERY DAY!! Yes, that's 5 hours of me being a teacher a week. Ain't God funny?? Please pray that this goes well, I'm apprehensive about this opportunity as I'm feeling equipped in NO WAY to take on this task. But, I have great support from the principal on this...and hey, my roomie is an ESL teacher so I can't get a better resource. This class starts Monday. Lessons plan, grading homework, creating assignments...all this teacher lingo will be added to my vocabulary soon.
So, as you can see I'll be very busy, and still excited to be able to do it :-)
A few other personal things:
I have a co-worker who is very involved in an orphanage in Managua. She has told me that when I'm ready she would love to have me along. I know this will be an emotional experience for me, but one that I finally feel I'm ready for. So, I'm excited to get invovled in that...
OK, now any one who is a MAMA (especially my mama) stop reading!
There has been some violence in the streets. A few teachers have experienced it first hand, I have not. People are getting robbed in their cars. They (robbers) will attack the car, start shaking the car and demanding money. They have even started tires on fire and it has been very violent the past few days. So, please pray that this violence will stop and for safety for me and all the other teachers. This is scary, but we know that God is always with us, protecting us.
Thanks for checking in on me, ya'll are the best (can you tell I live with 2 southern Belles)?!?!?
Things at school are going well, and I just want to update everyone on my roles there. My mornings are spent with the 1st grade classroom of 20 kids. The maximum per class at NCA is 14, so by the numbers you can see that we're over. We have 11 children who speak English as a second language, so my role in the classroom is a very obvious need! It's been an interesting experience, but the adjustment has gone well.
Another one of my roles at NCA will be to work with the counselor. My first 2 students are both 5th graders just needing some help with emotional maturity and social skills. So, I start meeting with them next week. Pray that the tools that I use will be effective in shaping these young people.
And my last SUPRISE role is teaching an ESL class to 2 boys (brothers) who are in 3rd and 4th grade. THis is brand new, something that is causing me some stress but I know that God will use me in the best ways that he can. I will be having an intensive hour with these guys at the end of the school day EVERY DAY!! Yes, that's 5 hours of me being a teacher a week. Ain't God funny?? Please pray that this goes well, I'm apprehensive about this opportunity as I'm feeling equipped in NO WAY to take on this task. But, I have great support from the principal on this...and hey, my roomie is an ESL teacher so I can't get a better resource. This class starts Monday. Lessons plan, grading homework, creating assignments...all this teacher lingo will be added to my vocabulary soon.
So, as you can see I'll be very busy, and still excited to be able to do it :-)
A few other personal things:
I have a co-worker who is very involved in an orphanage in Managua. She has told me that when I'm ready she would love to have me along. I know this will be an emotional experience for me, but one that I finally feel I'm ready for. So, I'm excited to get invovled in that...
OK, now any one who is a MAMA (especially my mama) stop reading!
There has been some violence in the streets. A few teachers have experienced it first hand, I have not. People are getting robbed in their cars. They (robbers) will attack the car, start shaking the car and demanding money. They have even started tires on fire and it has been very violent the past few days. So, please pray that this violence will stop and for safety for me and all the other teachers. This is scary, but we know that God is always with us, protecting us.
Thanks for checking in on me, ya'll are the best (can you tell I live with 2 southern Belles)?!?!?
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Made it!
I made it to Nicaragua! After a very long and TOUGH day on Thursday, I got to my new home around 9:30 pm. They were not kidding when they said my room was small...but it's ok for me because I didn't bring a whole lot of stuff along. I went to school yesterday (Friday) and found out that I will be in the 1st grade classroom 100% of the time for the beginning for the school year. I'll be working with Ms. Carey Franklin in her classroom of 20 kiddos...11 of whom speak English as a second language!! With me speaking very little Spanish, this will get interesting! After the first month of school of so, we are going to try to start getting me in working with Marysol, the school psychologist. This excites me because she has an air conditioned office :-) Last night we had open house at NCA so it was great to meet the kids and some of their parents. I think it's going to be a great semester!
Well, it's hot and rainy here, but I knew what I was getting in to. I have 2 roommates and they are both teachers at NCA as well. We were up late chatting last night, so I can only imagine how many more nights that will happen :-)
Thanks for checking in on me, I appreciate your support and encouragement. A few prayers requests:
~Monday is the first day of school, pray that all goes well!!
~Adjusting has come pretty easy so far, but I know there will be days when it's tough to be so far from home. Pray that I will adjust well in learning my new culture.
~Pray for the 20 kids coming in to the classroom on Monday, SO much diversity and different home backgrounds...
I will post some pictures as soon as I take any!!
Well, it's hot and rainy here, but I knew what I was getting in to. I have 2 roommates and they are both teachers at NCA as well. We were up late chatting last night, so I can only imagine how many more nights that will happen :-)
Thanks for checking in on me, I appreciate your support and encouragement. A few prayers requests:
~Monday is the first day of school, pray that all goes well!!
~Adjusting has come pretty easy so far, but I know there will be days when it's tough to be so far from home. Pray that I will adjust well in learning my new culture.
~Pray for the 20 kids coming in to the classroom on Monday, SO much diversity and different home backgrounds...
I will post some pictures as soon as I take any!!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
48 hours and counting...
Well, it's almost here, I fly out at 6:45 am on Thursday morning, August 5. People keep asking me how I'm feeling about it, and the only word that comes to mind is content. I am feeling great about my decison (most of the time) and know that God has called me to a special place. I am truly blessed to get this opportunity.
As I spend my last few days on family vacation, I'm picking up on the little things that I will miss about each one of them (and the things I won't miss :-) I have conisdered myself very fortunate to be able to watch each of my 4 nieces and nephews grow up in to the little people they are becoming and it's been great, I do think that will be the hardest part of my time in Nicaragua. BUT I know that God has called me to do His work in Nicaragua, I just look at it as gaining 100+ more nieces and nephews to love on!
So, as I prepare to head out of the US for a while, I ask for prayers for safe travel and getting thorough customs with ease, physical strength for me as we begin school on August 9, and emotional strength as I take this huge leap of faith and begin a new chapter in my life. I am very excited to see how God is going to grow me in to the person He wants me to be, and I hope to develop a lot of new relationships and have lots of fun along the way...
As I spend my last few days on family vacation, I'm picking up on the little things that I will miss about each one of them (and the things I won't miss :-) I have conisdered myself very fortunate to be able to watch each of my 4 nieces and nephews grow up in to the little people they are becoming and it's been great, I do think that will be the hardest part of my time in Nicaragua. BUT I know that God has called me to do His work in Nicaragua, I just look at it as gaining 100+ more nieces and nephews to love on!
So, as I prepare to head out of the US for a while, I ask for prayers for safe travel and getting thorough customs with ease, physical strength for me as we begin school on August 9, and emotional strength as I take this huge leap of faith and begin a new chapter in my life. I am very excited to see how God is going to grow me in to the person He wants me to be, and I hope to develop a lot of new relationships and have lots of fun along the way...
Thursday, July 1, 2010
The calendar flipped...
OK, it's July 1! WOW!!! I'm really doing this. It's really unbelievable that I'm moving next month!! I don't have a lot of time to update, but I just want to share a few quick things.
First of all...the support from all of you has been epic, I will never be able to thank you! Your smiles and words of encouragement are just little God winks...little ways for me to know that I'm doing the right thing.
Second, I'm cleaing out my office. My official last day at COC is July 2...crazy!!
I told Amy that when the calendar flipped to July 1 I would start to question and struggle...it's happening! Please pray for me for that reassurance that I am doing the right thing. I was reminded by a co-worker today that although it will not always be easy to be in Nicaraugua, it will be great!! I'm beginning to wonder how this is really going to work, however when cleaning out my office this afternoon, I found a photo book from my trip last June. Gets me WAY excited for my big move. My most favorite song just came on the radio as well...By Your Side by Tenth Avenue North. Listen to the words sometime, this is my song of truth and reassurance that God's plan is always best.
And lastly, I have to throw it out there. If you're interested in supporting me finanacially go to www.crwm.org/donate. Look for my name and get your credit card :-) I truly appreciate each and every gift whether big or small.
Please pray for smooth transitions in the next month, that all support will be provided, and that God will continue to place His hand of confidence over me.
Thanks guys...you're a blessing to me!
First of all...the support from all of you has been epic, I will never be able to thank you! Your smiles and words of encouragement are just little God winks...little ways for me to know that I'm doing the right thing.
Second, I'm cleaing out my office. My official last day at COC is July 2...crazy!!
I told Amy that when the calendar flipped to July 1 I would start to question and struggle...it's happening! Please pray for me for that reassurance that I am doing the right thing. I was reminded by a co-worker today that although it will not always be easy to be in Nicaraugua, it will be great!! I'm beginning to wonder how this is really going to work, however when cleaning out my office this afternoon, I found a photo book from my trip last June. Gets me WAY excited for my big move. My most favorite song just came on the radio as well...By Your Side by Tenth Avenue North. Listen to the words sometime, this is my song of truth and reassurance that God's plan is always best.
And lastly, I have to throw it out there. If you're interested in supporting me finanacially go to www.crwm.org/donate. Look for my name and get your credit card :-) I truly appreciate each and every gift whether big or small.
Please pray for smooth transitions in the next month, that all support will be provided, and that God will continue to place His hand of confidence over me.
Thanks guys...you're a blessing to me!
Monday, May 17, 2010
Survivor
Well...I am a survivor! I had to talk in church yesterday about my upcoming trip and it was like "Angie: Unplugged." The tears, sweat, snot, and more tears were flowing. I KNEW I did not want to do this, but I survived. I got lots a positive feedback and support from my church family after this, so I feel ok about it now. BUT it was NOT FUN for me. I wish I could talk to people about it and not be so emotional, but as I heard echoed from my church family yesterday, my emotions show that the Holy Spirit is moving in me and working through this adventure.
A few comments that struck me yesterday that I would like to share. Before I blubbered my way through what my next few months look like, Pastor Gary laid his hand on my shoulder and said "I bet when you were a little girl, you would never have imagined that this is what you're life would hold." HE WAS RIGHT!!! Up until a year ago, I never imagined I would do it. I do have an bold imagination and personality, but fear always stops me dead in my tracks and turns me back to same old, same old. Joshua 1:9 has become my theme verse over the past couple of months...
9"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."
I LOVE THIS VERSE!!! Sandy Shalin-Rhoades shared it with my last June (thanks Sandy, you're an amazing friend) when we were in Nicaragua as I was beginning to see how God really was calling me to Nicaragua and as I met a dear friend Natalie there, who was struggling with the same issues as I was. Really feeling like God was calling me there, but having no sense for how, where or when. I was so afraid to say "OK God, I'm listening this time." But, He is faithful and will be with me WHEREVER I GO including Nicaragua and always. I also remember and old saying "We know not what the future holds, but we do know who holds the future." This too brings me great comfort...
Another dear church friend said to me "So, you're going to be a missionary." Well, the term freaked me out! BUT yes, I am. However, aren't we all?? We are all called to be where we are at, and at time in my life when I don't see it, I still know that we are all on the mission field, mine is just now going to look very different!
On another random note...Survivor fans, it was announced last night that the taping will be in Nicaragua for the next 2 seasons. This is SO exciting for me, I'll be watching this time even though I've never watched before. I hope some of you will too, this will give you a very good idea of the country. Of course, if you don't want to watch the show, you can always come visit me and see it for yourselves :-)
Thanks for reading, I appreciate it! Pray for continued confidence and lack of fear for me, at times I really wonder what I'm getting myself in to...
A few comments that struck me yesterday that I would like to share. Before I blubbered my way through what my next few months look like, Pastor Gary laid his hand on my shoulder and said "I bet when you were a little girl, you would never have imagined that this is what you're life would hold." HE WAS RIGHT!!! Up until a year ago, I never imagined I would do it. I do have an bold imagination and personality, but fear always stops me dead in my tracks and turns me back to same old, same old. Joshua 1:9 has become my theme verse over the past couple of months...
9"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."
I LOVE THIS VERSE!!! Sandy Shalin-Rhoades shared it with my last June (thanks Sandy, you're an amazing friend) when we were in Nicaragua as I was beginning to see how God really was calling me to Nicaragua and as I met a dear friend Natalie there, who was struggling with the same issues as I was. Really feeling like God was calling me there, but having no sense for how, where or when. I was so afraid to say "OK God, I'm listening this time." But, He is faithful and will be with me WHEREVER I GO including Nicaragua and always. I also remember and old saying "We know not what the future holds, but we do know who holds the future." This too brings me great comfort...
Another dear church friend said to me "So, you're going to be a missionary." Well, the term freaked me out! BUT yes, I am. However, aren't we all?? We are all called to be where we are at, and at time in my life when I don't see it, I still know that we are all on the mission field, mine is just now going to look very different!
On another random note...Survivor fans, it was announced last night that the taping will be in Nicaragua for the next 2 seasons. This is SO exciting for me, I'll be watching this time even though I've never watched before. I hope some of you will too, this will give you a very good idea of the country. Of course, if you don't want to watch the show, you can always come visit me and see it for yourselves :-)
Thanks for reading, I appreciate it! Pray for continued confidence and lack of fear for me, at times I really wonder what I'm getting myself in to...
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
The Beginning...
Hi all~
Here it is...my blog! Feel free to follow me over the next several months as I prepare to move to Nicaragua. God has given me a vision, and I now trust in His provision. Pray that my transition goes smoothly and I adjust well to a new environment. I will use this to post some pictures and give everyone information that is bound to be captivating!! And OF COURSE I will keep you up to date on the all the FUN things that will be going on...
Blessings~
Angie
Here it is...my blog! Feel free to follow me over the next several months as I prepare to move to Nicaragua. God has given me a vision, and I now trust in His provision. Pray that my transition goes smoothly and I adjust well to a new environment. I will use this to post some pictures and give everyone information that is bound to be captivating!! And OF COURSE I will keep you up to date on the all the FUN things that will be going on...
Blessings~
Angie
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