I just had a great Saturday a.m. with my youngest son. Kenneth invited me to have breakfast with him at his place in Corvallis. He had gone to the store before 8 to pick up fresh muesli, bananas and turkey bacon with no preservatives or additives. What a son!!!! :)
After breakfast we joined some friends at the Farmer's Market before Kenneth had his Starbucks shift at 11. I cherish these moments with my adult kids. I don't think I could be more blessed!
Saturday 30 October 2010
Saturday 23 October 2010
My Saturday Morning
I have been musing over things of life this a.m. My world as I once knew it is changing for me. My kids are scattered from Sydney, Australia to Portland and Corvallis. I don't think I ever really prepared myself for the 'empty nest'. I know what I miss more than anything is not having meaningful conversation or someone to bounce ideas off. My dear sister-inlaw, Helen, suggested a blog, so here it is.
I just finished a book by Armand Nicholi...The Question of God. Nicholi has taken stories and quotes from CS Lewis and Sigmund Freud. It's an insightful read....
(Lewis) "believes the Creator is the source of all happiness and that most of the unhappiness and misery experienced over the centuries results from efforts to find happiness apart from that Source." He also says, "God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing."
The scripture I am holding onto this week is I Peter 5:7..."Casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you."
I just finished a book by Armand Nicholi...The Question of God. Nicholi has taken stories and quotes from CS Lewis and Sigmund Freud. It's an insightful read....
(Lewis) "believes the Creator is the source of all happiness and that most of the unhappiness and misery experienced over the centuries results from efforts to find happiness apart from that Source." He also says, "God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing."
The scripture I am holding onto this week is I Peter 5:7..."Casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you."
Wednesday 28 July 2010
Two Weeks Plus of Epic Experiences
Once again, I will share portions of my Australian adventures....This is day 16. I have enjoyed over 2 weeks of living with my daughter and her 4 housemates. Sarah and I have shared a small bedroom, and my daughter has generously given up her bed for me while she has slept on a mattress on the floor. While I have been here, I visited Sarah's "Connect Group". Connect is a small group of Hillsong students and church attenders aged 25-35. A dear friend of Sarah's treated us to an English High Tea at a vineyard in the area. Another friend who is from Oregon had us over for lunch my first week in Australia. I have eaten homemade Korean, Swiss/German and Burmese food during my stay in Australia. We took a day trip to Palm Beach and after lunch hiked up to a lighthouse. We have gone grocery shopping and hunted out the atm's in the area. I have attended services at Hillsong Hills campus, Hillsong SW campus and a small Burmese church that meets in a Baptist church. I have heard Sarah sing at the SW morning service, the Burmese Church service and the Women's ministries choir. I attended class with Sarah on Tuesday of this week and a chapel service.
When Sarah first arrived in Australia a year ago, she stayed with a very special family, the Ananins. Paul and Miriam are cousins of our friends the Dikihs. We enjoyed a meal and an afternoon with them in Granville. Sarah and I took the train from Bella Vista to Granville.
Eight days ago, Sarah and I went into the city of Sydney. We had a ride to Paramatta where we planned to take a ferry into the city. At the ferry dock we discovered our trip was delayed and we later learned it was because the tide was not high enough for the ferry to enter. While we waited, we warmed up at McDonald's with a cup of tea and then wandered around taking pictures in a park. When we got back to the ferry terminal, we visited with a retired Cessna airplane salesman who was presently teaching conversational English to young Chinese students. He also shared with us the history of Australia. The ferry finally arrived after 3 hours of waiting, but it turned out to be a very relaxing ride into the city. It was fun catching a first glimpse of the Harbor Bridge and Sydney Opera house. After de-boarding the ferry, we spent some time in the Opera House warming up in the beautiful restroom that had lighted toilet paper dispensers, beautiful sinks and hot water! We also checked out the gift shop. After taking more pictures, we walked through the Botanical Garden and ate in a little outdoor cafe just outside the garden. We spent some time under the Harbor Bridge watching people tour the bridge. We found out later it costs $200 to go on that tour. Before heading back on the ferry, Sarah and I had a glass of sparkling water and wine. As we boarded the ferry, the sun was setting. We were able to get some good pictures of the Opera House and bridge at sunset. When we arrived at Paramatta, we walked to the bus station and caught a bus back to Bella Vista. The bus took us practically to the front door of Sarah's house. Our trip to Sydney was a highlight for me. Sarah and I were able to have continuous good conversation and an excellent time to reconnect.
The next day, we drove to the Blue Mountains. We ate breakfast at a quaint cafe called the Common Ground. We hiked down into the canyon of the Blue Mountains, took more pics and drove to a park where we were told we would find kangaroo. After spending some time hiking around a park and almost ready to head back to Bella Vista, we saw two tour buses park and 50 or more people followed some tour guides to a clearing. Assuming they were also looking for kangaroo, we followed them. At 3:45, a family of kangaroo appeared. The mother, father and little Joey seemed to arrive almost on cue. After showing off their grazing skills, they hopped off into a grove of trees. The next day, a new student who is also a professional hairstylist came to the house to give Sarah a haircut. It was fun getting to know Cody and watching him do a masterful job cutting Sarah's hair.
On Saturday, I joined Sarah with her street team ministry. I was able to spend time with Sarah and a lady she has visited over the months. The lady named Linda is my age, but is pretty much house bound due to health issues and a difficult past. She is an intelligent woman and a retired nurse, but continues to live a hard life. She had tears in her eyes as Sarah and I left her that day.
It has been a blessing to meet Sarah's friends, teachers, and mentors. I was also able to spend an evening with one of Sarah's housemates having dinner at the restaurant where Sarah works. Sarah was able to take our order, serve our meal and visit in-between hosting the other tables. The owner of the restaurant treated me to an extra glass of wine and we were given dessert compliments of the owner. One of the chefs visited us at the table and the owner also invited us back to meet the head chef. They all shared their love for Sarah.
As difficult as it is to have my oldest child so far from home, I know God is working in and through her. She is totally in the center of His will. These last two weeks have been a gift from God!
When Sarah first arrived in Australia a year ago, she stayed with a very special family, the Ananins. Paul and Miriam are cousins of our friends the Dikihs. We enjoyed a meal and an afternoon with them in Granville. Sarah and I took the train from Bella Vista to Granville.
Eight days ago, Sarah and I went into the city of Sydney. We had a ride to Paramatta where we planned to take a ferry into the city. At the ferry dock we discovered our trip was delayed and we later learned it was because the tide was not high enough for the ferry to enter. While we waited, we warmed up at McDonald's with a cup of tea and then wandered around taking pictures in a park. When we got back to the ferry terminal, we visited with a retired Cessna airplane salesman who was presently teaching conversational English to young Chinese students. He also shared with us the history of Australia. The ferry finally arrived after 3 hours of waiting, but it turned out to be a very relaxing ride into the city. It was fun catching a first glimpse of the Harbor Bridge and Sydney Opera house. After de-boarding the ferry, we spent some time in the Opera House warming up in the beautiful restroom that had lighted toilet paper dispensers, beautiful sinks and hot water! We also checked out the gift shop. After taking more pictures, we walked through the Botanical Garden and ate in a little outdoor cafe just outside the garden. We spent some time under the Harbor Bridge watching people tour the bridge. We found out later it costs $200 to go on that tour. Before heading back on the ferry, Sarah and I had a glass of sparkling water and wine. As we boarded the ferry, the sun was setting. We were able to get some good pictures of the Opera House and bridge at sunset. When we arrived at Paramatta, we walked to the bus station and caught a bus back to Bella Vista. The bus took us practically to the front door of Sarah's house. Our trip to Sydney was a highlight for me. Sarah and I were able to have continuous good conversation and an excellent time to reconnect.
The next day, we drove to the Blue Mountains. We ate breakfast at a quaint cafe called the Common Ground. We hiked down into the canyon of the Blue Mountains, took more pics and drove to a park where we were told we would find kangaroo. After spending some time hiking around a park and almost ready to head back to Bella Vista, we saw two tour buses park and 50 or more people followed some tour guides to a clearing. Assuming they were also looking for kangaroo, we followed them. At 3:45, a family of kangaroo appeared. The mother, father and little Joey seemed to arrive almost on cue. After showing off their grazing skills, they hopped off into a grove of trees. The next day, a new student who is also a professional hairstylist came to the house to give Sarah a haircut. It was fun getting to know Cody and watching him do a masterful job cutting Sarah's hair.
On Saturday, I joined Sarah with her street team ministry. I was able to spend time with Sarah and a lady she has visited over the months. The lady named Linda is my age, but is pretty much house bound due to health issues and a difficult past. She is an intelligent woman and a retired nurse, but continues to live a hard life. She had tears in her eyes as Sarah and I left her that day.
It has been a blessing to meet Sarah's friends, teachers, and mentors. I was also able to spend an evening with one of Sarah's housemates having dinner at the restaurant where Sarah works. Sarah was able to take our order, serve our meal and visit in-between hosting the other tables. The owner of the restaurant treated me to an extra glass of wine and we were given dessert compliments of the owner. One of the chefs visited us at the table and the owner also invited us back to meet the head chef. They all shared their love for Sarah.
As difficult as it is to have my oldest child so far from home, I know God is working in and through her. She is totally in the center of His will. These last two weeks have been a gift from God!
Monday 19 July 2010
My Life Down Under
July 20, 2010
I had not considered writing a blog until a friend asked if I was writing about my experiences, so here it is.
I am in Sydney Australia, visiting my daughter, Sarah, while she is attending Hillsong International College. Sarah has an emphasis on "Worship" in her studies. She has been here for one year and 3 days. I arrived a week ago on July 12. Sarah met me at the airport. My sons, Jordan and Kenneth, and friends, Bruce, Linda, and Micah had dropped me off at the Portland airport July 10. I had a two hour flight from Portland to San Francisco, followed by a 14 hr flight to Sydney, arriving "2 days" later because of crossing the international dateline. I totally missed July 11 and will experience 2 July 31 dates.
It has been an absolute blessing and joy to be with Sarah and to meet her many friends. At times it has been down right overwhelming trying to remember names and the country each one is from. Sarah lives with another American, 2 women from New Caledonia, and a young woman from Switzerland. One night last week, we had Korean and Swiss German food for dinner. The Korean food was prepared by a former housemate who is from Korea, and the Swiss German meal was prepared by a young Swiss woman who had been visiting.
One of the biggest challenges is realizing it is winter down here and summer at home in Turner. It's hard to wrap my mind around "winter in July". I have so much to share in this blog, I should have started a week ago. It has taken a good week for me to overcome jetlag. I will continue as time allows.... :)
I had not considered writing a blog until a friend asked if I was writing about my experiences, so here it is.
I am in Sydney Australia, visiting my daughter, Sarah, while she is attending Hillsong International College. Sarah has an emphasis on "Worship" in her studies. She has been here for one year and 3 days. I arrived a week ago on July 12. Sarah met me at the airport. My sons, Jordan and Kenneth, and friends, Bruce, Linda, and Micah had dropped me off at the Portland airport July 10. I had a two hour flight from Portland to San Francisco, followed by a 14 hr flight to Sydney, arriving "2 days" later because of crossing the international dateline. I totally missed July 11 and will experience 2 July 31 dates.
It has been an absolute blessing and joy to be with Sarah and to meet her many friends. At times it has been down right overwhelming trying to remember names and the country each one is from. Sarah lives with another American, 2 women from New Caledonia, and a young woman from Switzerland. One night last week, we had Korean and Swiss German food for dinner. The Korean food was prepared by a former housemate who is from Korea, and the Swiss German meal was prepared by a young Swiss woman who had been visiting.
One of the biggest challenges is realizing it is winter down here and summer at home in Turner. It's hard to wrap my mind around "winter in July". I have so much to share in this blog, I should have started a week ago. It has taken a good week for me to overcome jetlag. I will continue as time allows.... :)
Saturday 29 November 2008
Home Again, Home Again
Faithful Friends...
Thank you for the prayers, encouragement and support you have given me these last 5-6 months. I returned to Oregon on November 16. Believe it or not, I am still struggling with jet lag and getting back on a 'normal' sleep schedule. I am in the process of trying to stay focused, to wrap my mind around the fact that I am home with my amazing children, that we just enjoyed a great Thanksgiving, and it is almost Christmas. The funny thing as I started to take out Christmas decorations last night, I felt as though I had just packed them up and put them away. I feel as though I have gone through a time warp. In some ways, I believe I have. Since June, I have been on a very fast train and now all of a sudden, the train has slowed down.
I look forward to touching base with you, and sharing your life and my life from the last six months. One thing I hold onto that I have begun to make a Life Truth is: "For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, 'Abba! Father!' The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him." Romans 8:14-17 I choose to not walk in fear again, but to walk as a daughter of God who is my Heavenly Father. He loves me and His perfect love casts out fear. (I John 4:18)
Have a Blessed Christmas and New Year, knowing that God loves you!
With Love,
Elizabeth
Thank you for the prayers, encouragement and support you have given me these last 5-6 months. I returned to Oregon on November 16. Believe it or not, I am still struggling with jet lag and getting back on a 'normal' sleep schedule. I am in the process of trying to stay focused, to wrap my mind around the fact that I am home with my amazing children, that we just enjoyed a great Thanksgiving, and it is almost Christmas. The funny thing as I started to take out Christmas decorations last night, I felt as though I had just packed them up and put them away. I feel as though I have gone through a time warp. In some ways, I believe I have. Since June, I have been on a very fast train and now all of a sudden, the train has slowed down.
I look forward to touching base with you, and sharing your life and my life from the last six months. One thing I hold onto that I have begun to make a Life Truth is: "For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, 'Abba! Father!' The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him." Romans 8:14-17 I choose to not walk in fear again, but to walk as a daughter of God who is my Heavenly Father. He loves me and His perfect love casts out fear. (I John 4:18)
Have a Blessed Christmas and New Year, knowing that God loves you!
With Love,
Elizabeth
Monday 3 November 2008
The Last 4 Days in Beautiful Bulgaria
I never dreamed a country could be needy, yet so beautiful! I love Bulgaria. The weather has been unbelievably warm for November, but the hearts of the people are wonderfully warm also! We have had amazing ministry times in the gypsy villages, at a seminar the local YWAM base put on, and at local churches. I have experienced so many things that at times I feel as though I could burst with excitement in wanting to share all that has happened.
I have stories to tell from unique WC challenges to the illegal climbing of Roman Ruins. ( the climbing incident was done in total ignorance of the possible consequences)
We leave for Milan Italy on Saturday, November 8 and return to Chatel Switzerland on November 9. I am posting pix of our adventures as soon as I get back to Switzerland and am able to use my own laptop. The pix will be on facebook.
Many blessings to you. Thank you for your faithful prayers!
With love,
Elizabeth
I have stories to tell from unique WC challenges to the illegal climbing of Roman Ruins. ( the climbing incident was done in total ignorance of the possible consequences)
We leave for Milan Italy on Saturday, November 8 and return to Chatel Switzerland on November 9. I am posting pix of our adventures as soon as I get back to Switzerland and am able to use my own laptop. The pix will be on facebook.
Many blessings to you. Thank you for your faithful prayers!
With love,
Elizabeth
Friday 17 October 2008
10 More Days in Romania
Today is the end of a busy week. We started out on Monday by praying through the streets of Iasi during the Orthodox holiday commemorating the death of a female saint. For some it means standing in line for days to view her bones or kiss her coffin. For others it is a time of carnival and celebrating.
The last two days of the week were spent working at a boy's home for young men 18-30 who have been thrown out of orphanages or into the streets. A couple who has done a YWAM Crossroads works with them and feeds them. The founder of the home is a former Romanian soccer player who sensed God was asking him to minister to the needs of those who have no hope. It was a blessing to spend two days with these young men, work with them and pray for them.
Tomorrow we meet for brunch with an American couple who has ministries throughout the city. Tomorrow evening we will be having dessert with a lady from a local church and possibly go to a classical concert.
Please pray for our next adventure to Bulgaria that should take place in 10 days. We are dealing with some travel challenges.
Many Blessings!
The last two days of the week were spent working at a boy's home for young men 18-30 who have been thrown out of orphanages or into the streets. A couple who has done a YWAM Crossroads works with them and feeds them. The founder of the home is a former Romanian soccer player who sensed God was asking him to minister to the needs of those who have no hope. It was a blessing to spend two days with these young men, work with them and pray for them.
Tomorrow we meet for brunch with an American couple who has ministries throughout the city. Tomorrow evening we will be having dessert with a lady from a local church and possibly go to a classical concert.
Please pray for our next adventure to Bulgaria that should take place in 10 days. We are dealing with some travel challenges.
Many Blessings!
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